Chapter 121 - 130

Xu, the old nanny, rushed over with a prescription, respectfully saying, "Your Highness, this is a prescription from the imperial physician."

"Quickly, have Doctor Murong examine it," Consort Xi said, no longer in a hurry, seemingly quite confident in her health.

Murong Wei took the prescription, examining it carefully several times, her brows furrowing repeatedly, her expression grave. She looked up at Consort Xi, shook her head and sighed, then looked at Xu, sighing even more deeply.Full novel: Greedy Baby: Abandoned Wife Mother Becomes a Concubine — read the rest free on N​o⁠v​e⁠l​C⁠o​d⁠e​x⁠.​o⁠r​g⁠

The women in the room, seeing Murong Wei's appearance, exchanged bewildered glances, not daring to utter a sound. Could she really be ill? Or was there something wrong with the prescription?

Consort Xi, who had been composed, now had her brows tightly furrowed, staring at Murong Wei without uttering a word.

"Alas, this…this…" Murong Wei hesitated.

"What exactly is going on? Tell me quickly!" Consort Zhen couldn't help but speak. "

This…how to explain, alas…" Murong Wei sighed deeply, still unable to speak.

“Doctor Murong, please speak frankly; there’s no one else here,” Consort Xi said calmly.

Murong Wei glanced at her thoughtfully and asked, “I wonder which imperial physician prescribed this?”

“Imperial Physician Lin!” Consort Xi replied.

Murong Wei sighed softly, “How… with so many imperial physicians in the palace, how did you find Imperial Physician Lin?”

“He is the Emperor’s personal physician. If it weren’t for our Lady, no one else could have been invited! There certainly wouldn’t be any problems! Tell me quickly what happened!” the impatient Consort Zhen said hastily.

Murong Wei glanced at her, her worried brows suddenly turning into a smile, and said, “It’s nothing, I was just asking. It’s a perfectly normal prescription for a cold, very effective. If Your Highness wants to take the medicine, just take this prescription and get it.”

As soon as Murong Wei said this, the entire room fell silent. The foolish thought she was just trying to attract attention and create a mystery, but the clever ones immediately understood why she did this and couldn’t help but applaud!

Consort Xi had asked her to write a prescription, which she would surely use to tamper with later. Yet, Murong Wei, with just a few words and a slight frown, had tricked Imperial Physician Lin into revealing the prescription, even getting him to reveal his identity in public, thus securing her own escape route.

The room was silent, save for Murong Wei sipping her tea. She didn't even bother to look at Consort Xi's expression. The tea in Consort Xi's palace suited her taste perfectly; the green tea had a faint fragrance of magnolia. She had noticed a completely different scent of magnolia in this magnificent palace as soon as she entered, even stronger than in the Orchid Garden. She wondered if other palaces had it.

Could it be that Prince Qi, like his mother, the Empress Dowager, favored magnolia?

"Granny Xu..." Suddenly, Consort Xi finally spoke softly.

"Yes, madam," Granny Xu replied timidly, her heart pounding. She knew Consort Xi's temper best; if it didn't escalate into a tantrum, it was far more terrifying behind the scenes.

"Since Doctor Murong has said so, then hurry and fetch the prescription. My head is quite heavy," Consort Xi said lazily, glancing at Murong Wei.

"Yes," Xu Mama replied without hesitation.

Murong Wei immediately stood up and said, "If Your Majesty has no other instructions, this humble subject will take his leave."

"Doctor Murong, what do you think of my couplet?" Consort Xi asked with a smile, showing no anger whatsoever, her skill quite impressive.

"This couplet is perfectly matched, exuding an air of arrogance between the lines; it's not something an ordinary person could write," Murong Wei commented, focusing on the couplet, not the person.

"Hehe, this humble subject would like to ask Doctor Murong for a horizontal inscription, is that possible?" Consort Xi asked.

Murong Wei pondered for a long time, hesitating to speak, and finally, under the gaze of a group of women, sighed, "This humble subject is truly unworthy and dares not disgrace such a fine work. Please, Your Majesty, find another expert."

Actually, she wanted to give her a horizontal inscription, "The Work of Prime Minister Ning!"

Consort Xi smiled without speaking, glancing at Consort Zhen beside her. The quick-witted woman immediately interjected, "Empress Xi's masterpiece is so great that even the Emperor and Empress Dowager, and the entire court, could hardly match it. Doctor Murong, you're quite sensible."

"Hehe, I really thought I'd be seeing something amazing today after thinking for so long!" Even the usually silent Xue Ji spoke up.

Consort Xi then calmly waved her hand, saying, "Doctor Murong was just a little nervous. I'm tired. If there's nothing else, you may all leave."

"Yes." Murong Wei bowed for the first time, turned, and left. Being a woman herself, she was afraid of having an allergic reaction from being surrounded by cosmetics for too long.

As she walked, she heard Consort Xi asking about Consort De again, and then she remembered that her sister was also at the Qi Prince's residence! It seemed the wound on her face still couldn't be found; it was better she didn't come out, saving herself unnecessary trouble.

She should hurry and find Bai Wushang. She was more interested in his search for the Xuanyuan Emperor's military treatise. Once that treatise was published, the world would surely descend into chaos and change hands, a golden opportunity to amass wealth and power.

Originally, she wanted to take Ye Bao away from the Xuanyuan royal family and live a life of luxury with Lao Bai, making a fortune. Now, she wanted the Xuanyuan royal family destroyed as soon as possible. She could seize a city, raise an army, and disregard everyone's wishes. If she didn't want to, she wouldn't even acknowledge anyone's invitation!

She wondered what Bai Wushang was planning. He was originally going to follow Xuanyuan Li, but now that she was the imperial physician of the Qi Prince's mansion, was he going to instigate Xuanyuan Li to demand her return?

"Doctor Murong, we should turn right," Qing'er reminded her, interrupting her train of thought.

"The bamboo forest is just ahead. Aren't we going back?" Murong Wei asked.

"Doctor Murong, Steward Li has been waiting for a long time. You should go over there. That sister is not someone to be trifled with. You should hurry," Qing'er kindly reminded her.

"How old are you? Are you from the Empress Dowager's palace?" Murong Wei asked casually. Being a steward of a household is no easy task, especially in the complex Qi Prince's mansion. For a woman to be addressed as "sister" suggests she must be a veteran figure who has worked her way up in the palace.

"She's about your age, around twenty-three or twenty-four. She was sent by the Empress Dowager and is deeply trusted by the Prince. Even Consort Xi sometimes defers to her. Everyone, young and old, calls her 'sister,'" Qing'er said.

Murong Wei nodded, intrigued by Sister Li.

Soon, the two arrived at a secluded courtyard, Guiju, located to the right of the garden entrance to the Qi Prince's mansion. It faced directly opposite the Qi Prince's Jingxuan Pavilion, separated by a lotus pond now covered in withered leaves, a rather desolate sight.

"Guiju? That's a rather unusual name," Murong Wei said with a smile.

"It was bestowed by the Qi Prince. Nobody understands its meaning, except probably Sister Li," Qing'er said.

Murong Wei found it strange but didn't ask further. She strode inside, and a servant immediately greeted her. Upon seeing Qing'er, he said, "Someone from the Empress Dowager's palace came without warning. Sister Li went to Lanyuan."

"What for?" Murong Wei asked.

"She seems to be picking up a child," the servant replied.

"Ye Bao!" Murong Wei exclaimed in surprise, turning to leave immediately!

When Murong Wei arrived at Lan Garden, Ye Bao had already been taken away.

The newcomer was Granny Dai, who had served the Empress Dowager for over ten years. She was accompanied by several top imperial guards, and several hundred servants remained with Prince Qi. The entourage was enormous, yet they managed to avoid alerting anyone in Prince Qi's residence.

Upon receiving the news, Murong Wei rushed in and coldly addressed the steward, Sister Li, sitting opposite her, "I want to see Prince Qi."

Sister Li was indeed around twenty-three or twenty-four years old, dressed in a fine blue robe with a wide skirt and rolled-up sleeves, revealing her fair, jade-like arms. Her hair was styled in a high bun. She was not tall, but her features were delicate and beautiful, possessing a sharp and intelligent air.

"Is this Doctor Murong?" Sister Li glanced at Qing'er and asked indifferently.

"What does the Empress Dowager want with my son? Why didn't she inform me?" Murong Wei asked again. She hated being threatened with Ye Bao more than anything. Was Prince Qi taking her out of the palace out of gratitude for her saving him, or did he have other motives and was now threatening Ye Bao?

"Does the Empress Dowager need to consult you before acting?" Sister Li said calmly, her tone authoritative without anger, much like her master, Prince Qi.

Unfortunately, Murong Wei didn't buy it and retorted, "A child under six years old doesn't understand anything. Shouldn't she inform his mother before taking him away, or have his mother come along? The Empress Dowager is also a mother; she must understand this. On the contrary, you didn't inform me. Isn't that inappropriate?"

"Hehe, what a sharp tongue you have. The Empress Dowager likes Ye Bao. She just wants him to stay in the palace for a few days to keep her company. Why are you so nervous? Does the Empress Dowager not trust him?" Sister Li retorted, equally sharp-tongued.

"I want to see Prince Qi," Murong Wei said directly, not wanting to waste any more words with her. This matter was beyond the control of a mere steward like herself.

"The Empress Dowager is hosting a banquet for Princess Yelü Lingrong of the Liusha Kingdom, and also invited the Prince. He went to the banquet early this morning," Sister Li said.

"He hasn't fully recovered yet, how could he go to a banquet?" Murong Wei asked, not believing it at all.

"You're a doctor, everyone is just a patient in your eyes. But your master is a prince. The Empress Dowager personally sent someone to the mansion to invite him, and even brought out the imperial carriage. No matter how much pain the Prince is in, he has to go," Sister Li said coldly, a hint of hatred flashing in her eyes.

Murong Wei was stunned, suddenly remembering the scene of Xuan Yuanche and Xuan Yuanlie's falling out that night, and felt a chill run down her spine. What exactly did Prince Qi want to do with all this money?

Damn it, if he hadn't had so many similarities to Lao Bai, she wouldn't have misunderstood. She could even tell he was looking at her back then. She really shouldn't have saved him. If she had obediently listened to Xuan Yuanli, she would have been staying with Ye Bao and Lao Bai in the Li Prince's Mansion by now. There are almost no women in the Li Prince's Mansion, at least it's quieter than here.

Where is that Bai guy? Where did he hide again? Is he still in Lan Garden or did he go to the palace?

Thinking of this, Murong Wei couldn't help but look around before softening her tone, "Sister Li, I was so worried about my son just now, please forgive me if I offended you. I wonder if I could come to the palace to take care of him?"

There was no other way. Ye Bao was in their hands, it was clearly a disguised kidnapping, but she had to calm down.

However, even after she conceded, Sister Li remained cold, saying, "The palace isn't a place you can just go to whenever you want. You are now the imperial physician of the Qi Prince's residence, and you must remain there at all times. Don't forget your position. If anything happens to the masters of this residence, you will be held responsible!"

Just then, Xu Mama's voice came from outside the door, "Doctor Murong! Doctor Murong, Her Highness has vomited blood!"

Everyone was shocked. Vomiting blood?

"What happened?" Sister Li immediately stood up and strode out.

Xu Mama arrived at the door, panting, and said urgently, "Sister Li, it's good that you're here! Her Highness just drank the medicine given by Doctor Murong, only the third sip, and she coughed up blood, and it's black! She's definitely been poisoned. Quickly, get Doctor Murong to come and take a look!"

Murong Wei followed out and frowned upon hearing this. What exactly did Consort Xi want? Was she already so preoccupied with this scheme that she couldn't eat or sleep?

She had only entered the Qi Prince's residence last night, and hadn't even warmed her seat yet! And she was just a royal physician; why did they have to eliminate her so early this morning?

"Doctor Murong, please come quickly!" Sister Li frowned and said earnestly.

Murong Wei had no choice but to hurry along with her to Luoxia Palace. Along the way, she saw many maids and servants running around frantically, attending to her. She heard that Consort Xi's family was already on their way—such speed!

Urged on by Granny Xu, Murong Wei was almost at the gate of Luoxia Courtyard when she suddenly stopped. In the distance, she saw a veiled woman standing on the pavilion of Jingde Courtyard to her right, also watching her from afar. It was none other than Consort De!

"Doctor Murong, hurry! The Prime Minister's wife is already at the gate!" Granny Xu urged.

Murong Wei decisively turned around, only one thought in her mind, a thought she couldn't understand at all: Was Xuan Yuanche bored or what? Why did he have to keep such a group of women causing trouble at home? Didn't he get annoyed? Could he handle it all?

Finally arriving at Luoxia Courtyard, everyone was panting heavily. Murong Wei glanced at Li Jie, whose breathing was just as steady as hers, but paid her no attention. She noticed that Consort Xi, whose complexion had been perfectly fine just moments before, now had a rosy complexion but was weakly leaning against a high pillow, one hand pressed to her chest, the other a silk handkerchief covering her mouth as she coughed lightly.

Upon seeing Murong Wei enter, she immediately became agitated, shouting, "Guards! Guards, seize this vile woman!"

Murong Wei stepped behind Li Jie and said calmly, "What crime have I committed, Your Highness? Please explain clearly first!"

Consort Xi coughed incessantly, finally stopping after a while. She unfolded the silk handkerchief and saw blood; her face paled instantly. She threw the handkerchief at Murong Wei, coldly saying, "You were the one who checked my pulse and said it was nothing serious, you were the one who said the prescription was usable! I only drank three sips and immediately coughed up blood, and you still call that a crime?" "

As she spoke, she leaned on the armrest to get up. Granny Xu quickly stepped forward to help her, saying, 'Sister Li, the Prince isn't here, you must stand up for the Empress. The Empress felt unwell this morning, so she asked Doctor Murong to come and take a look. Doctor Murong only took her pulse and asked about the previous prescription, saying it was fine to take. Who knew that the Empress only drank three sips of that medicine before she started coughing up blood, all black blood! Whether it's poisoning, or the wrong medicine, it's all Doctor Murong's fault!'"

"That was medicine prescribed by Imperial Physician Lin, how could it be poisonous? Even if it were, didn't Your Highness use it before? Besides, even if the wrong medicine was used, the prescription was just for a cold, how could it cause coughing up blood? If Your Highness really wants to pursue this, shouldn't you summon Imperial Physician Lin as well?" Murong Wei asked coldly. Such absurd reasons, such laughable excuses, they could use them to slander her.

"You! Is this how you speak to me? Imperial Physician Lin is already on his way! Guards, seize Murong Wei first!" Consort Xi said in a deep voice.

Murong Wei was shocked. They even summoned Imperial Physician Lin so quickly. This matter would not benefit Imperial Physician Lin at all, but would instead put him in jail. Was he forced to come, or was there another conspiracy?

Murong Wei had to re-evaluate this Princess Consort of the Qi Prince's Mansion. How could someone who could sit in this position be simple?

The guards were about to step forward when Murong Wei moved even faster, vanishing into thin air in an instant.

Was she trying to escape?

No.

The next moment, she appeared behind Consort Xi, unexpectedly grabbing the hand that Consort Xi had placed on her chest and pulling her off the chaise longue, flipping her backward.

"Ah..." Consort Xi's scream pierced the sky, landing in front of Murong Wei, her eyes still tightly closed as she screamed.

"Murong Wei, what are you trying to do?" Sister Li finally spoke, gesturing to the guards who were about to act, forbidding them from making any rash moves.

"What, you think I'd kill her?" Murong Wei retorted innocently, covering Xi Fei's mouth with one hand to stop her shrill scream, and continued, "It's just to take her pulse, otherwise, when Physician Lin and Madam Gu arrive, I won't know anything, how will I confront them? When the Prince returns and asks about it, I'll have no idea what happened, how will I explain?"

"Don't be so presumptuous! Does taking a pulse require such a fuss?" Sister Li coldly reprimanded, her fist clenched, seemingly a trained fighter herself.

"I'm afraid she won't take it. It's just a pulse, why are you all so nervous? I'm not trying to poison or harm her," Murong Wei smiled harmlessly, covering Xi Fei's mouth with one hand and pinning her hand behind her back with the other, then shoving her forward without mercy, sending her crashing into the back of the chaise lounge.

"Ugh! Ugh..." Xi Fei's eyes widened, her face turning ashen.

Pain, pain pierced her very core. How dare this damned woman treat her like this! When Mother and Physician Lin arrive, they'll make her pay! They'll throw her in jail and skin her alive!

But Murong Wei seemed oblivious to her inner warning, yanking her up again and slamming her against her again.

This time, Xi Fei's tears streamed down her face, ruining her heavy makeup, but Murong Wei muffled her sobs.

"Murong Wei!" a guard shouted, drawing his long sword. "Release the Empress!"

"I just wanted her to cooperate, to take her pulse. If you take another step, I can't guarantee I won't make a mistake!" Murong Wei said earnestly.

"Then hurry up and take her pulse! Don't look like you're going to kill her," Sister Li asked coldly, a hint of amusement in her eyes.

Murong Wei returned a polite, slight smile, one hand still covering Xi Fei's mouth, one leg bent, pressing against Xi Fei's hands behind her back, pinning her firmly to the chaise lounge. Only after confirming Xi Fei couldn't break free did she pull up her right hand and instantly press on her pulse.

The movement was swift and fluid, giving the guards and Xi Fei no chance whatsoever. Though it was supposed to be a rescue, the action resembled murder.

The guards and Aunt Li dared not make a move, watching from afar with suspicion. Was this woman really just taking a pulse?

Murong Wei's expression was calm and composed, yet serious, exactly the same as when she was taking a pulse. Only Xi Fei knew how hard she pressed, almost rupturing her veins. Xi Fei

couldn't struggle, nor dared to.

Suddenly, her eyes widened, her whole body stiffening instantly. She felt something pierce her palm, not painful at all, but strangely numb, as if something had burrowed into her hand.

At the same time, Murong Wei whispered in her ear, "Consort Xi, remember, I'm not a doctor, but an assassin. I'm skilled at saving lives, but even more skilled at killing. If you want me to poison you so badly, then I won't be polite. If you don't want to ruin this skill, you know what to do later. Prince Qi is going to a family banquet; I need you to take me there, as soon as possible!"

With that, she released her grip and instantly retreated. Consort Xi screamed, collapsing to the ground, her heavy makeup ruined, her long hair disheveled.

Sister Li and Granny Xu rushed to help her up. Consort Xi hugged Granny Xu tightly, burying her face in her hands and sobbing uncontrollably.

"Murong Wei, what exactly did you do?" Sister Li coldly questioned.

"Just taking her pulse, why don't you ask her?" Murong Wei feigned innocence, lazily sitting down to the side. Having suffered at the hands of the Murong family and Consort De, she was already wary of the venomous hearts of the women in these so-called noble families. She believed in one truth when dealing with them: "Strike first, strike hard!"

"Taking her pulse?" Aunt Li was unconvinced and helped Consort Xi to the bed for a thorough examination.

"Consort Xi, what's wrong? What did Murong Wei do to you? Tell me, when Madam arrives, she'll settle things for you!" Granny Xu urged, wiping away her tears. Consort

Xi just shook her head. The strange sensation in her hand was growing stronger, spreading to her arm. It was only itchy, without pain, but having used potent poisons on others, she knew it was poison. Murong Wei had really poisoned her!

"Consort Xi, tell them, was it just taking her pulse?" Murong Wei's tone was indifferent, no longer smiling.

All eyes were on Consort Xi. They knew something was wrong, but they didn't know what was happening, all waiting for Consort Xi to speak.

Consort Xi continued to cry, crying and crying, crying incessantly. From childhood to adulthood, even Prince Qi had never raised his voice to her, let alone laid a hand on her! Let alone poisoned her. She was always the one tormenting others. At this moment, she hadn't recovered at all.

Unable to dissuade her, Granny Xu said coldly, "Guards! Take Murong Wei away! The fright was caused by her!"

"A royal physician, a third-rank official, brought here by your prince. What right do you, a mere nanny, have to detain me?" Murong Wei suddenly stood up and strode towards Granny Xu.

The guards hesitated, while Granny Xu seemed intimidated by Murong Wei's imposing presence, involuntarily retreating and stammering, unable to speak.

Murong Wei narrowed her eyes, her face dangerous, and approached again.

Granny Xu, on guard, continued to retreat.

Murong Wei suddenly leaned forward, and Granny Xu took several steps, completely pushing her away.

"Doctor Murong, know your limits. If this gets out of hand, it will be handed over to the Imperial Clan Court. You gave the Empress the medicine she drank, and she just gave her the fright. Do you think you can escape?" Sister Li coldly reminded her.

Murong Wei ignored her, casually picked up a bronze mirror from the side, and showed it to Consort Xi, coldly saying, "Stop crying, you really look ugly!"

Instantly, the wailing stopped.

"Consort Xi, did I take your pulse?" Murong Wei asked calmly.

Consort Xi nodded hesitantly.

"Consort Xi, did I frighten you?" Murong Wei asked again.

Consort Xi slowly shook her head.

"Consort Xi, why are you coughing up blood?" Murong Wei asked again.

"I don't know!" Consort Xi finally spoke.

"Then let's wait for Physician Lin to come. Send someone to urge him. I have many worldly affairs to attend to and can't stay here forever. Hurry up, Consort Xi, your illness needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible," Murong Wei said earnestly.

Good news doesn't travel far, but bad news travels fast.

The crowd outside Luoxia Courtyard was enormous, three layers deep. Nosy servants were all outside, while inside the courtyard were Prince Qi's concubines, and even palace maids who rarely showed their faces had come.

"Did you see Murong Wei? Did you see her?"

"I only saw her back. She's not very tall, and I heard she was actually wearing a gold-threaded mask."

"The news has been circulating in the palace for a while now. She's the one who saved the Prince. Her medical skills are superb!"

"Oh dear, that's hardly news. I heard this morning at the restaurant that she was the first female imperial physician in the Han Kingdom! She's proficient in the six arts, skilled in singing and dancing, a truly all-around talented woman!"

"Huh? I heard that she and Lord Wushang offended the King of Han and were wanted by the authorities?"

"Weren't they removed? I heard it was the Thirteenth Prince who personally ordered the King of Han to remove them!"

"How come the Thirteenth Prince got involved too?"

"What do you mean by getting involved?"

"Shh... I heard the Prince had a falling out with the Emperor in the palace because of this woman. The Emperor wanted to keep her in the Imperial Hospital, but the Prince insisted on taking her back!"

"Really? There are so many people who want her. Whose child is she?" Suddenly, a cold voice interrupted the murmurs.

Everyone was startled. Hearing the shrill voice, they knew who it was without even looking. They all lowered their heads and retreated to the side, not daring to utter a sound. Even the concubines and palace maids of the Prince of Qi made way for them like servants. The

woman who entered was an elderly woman, dressed in the same magnificent robes and makeup as Consort Xi. Behind her was the imperial physician, Physician Lin.

She coldly swept her gaze across the crowd, walking past with her head held high like a queen on an inspection tour, showing no concern for her daughter's illness. In contrast, Physician Lin behind her was drenched in sweat, his face filled with worry.

Even the three concubines of the Prince's mansion—Mo Ji, Yu Ji, and Xue Ji—made way for her, stepping aside as if she were the mistress of the Prince's mansion.

She walked with the gait of a queen, crossing the courtyard and stepping over the high threshold, arrogantly preparing to join forces with her daughter to deal with the infamous Physician Murong, whose reputation had already spread throughout the streets and alleys of the capital!

However, at that moment, she froze at the doorway.

The room was empty except for Sister Li.

"What happened?" Madam Gu frowned suddenly.

"Consort Xi said it's a misunderstanding. The coughing up blood was caused by a nightmare she had last night, and it has nothing to do with the Murong couple or Physician Lin. The prescription has been sent to the Imperial Hospital for further verification," Sister Li replied calmly. When Prince Qi wasn't at his residence, Madam Gu, relying on her status as his mother-in-law, had often interfered in the affairs of Prince Qi's household, hindering her in many ways, which she found quite annoying. "

Where is she?" Madam Gu asked sharply, immediately sensing something amiss.

"She went to the palace. Consort Xi said the Prince forgot to take his medicine this morning and, worried about his health, is bringing it to him," Sister Li stated truthfully. A short while later, Consort Xi had already left through the back door with Murong Wei. "

Sister Li, as the steward of Prince Qi's residence, Consort Xi's coughing up blood is such a serious matter. She's being naive, but what about you? Are you going to report it to the Prince and the Emperor?" Madam Gu asked coldly.

"Madam Gu, this is a matter of the Qi Prince's residence. Since the Prince is not here, Consort Xi can make the decision. This servant has no right to interfere. Besides, Consort Xi is shrewd and intelligent; she never needs this servant to interfere in her affairs," Li Jie replied calmly.

"You!" Madam Gu was furious. Without another word, she coldly glanced at Physician Lin and turned to leave. "Enter the palace!"

Li Jie stood quietly at the door, watching Madam Gu's departing figure, her deep eyes suddenly filled with complex emotions.

This family banquet was already dangerous enough; why did Murong Wei insist on going to the palace?

However, she was wrong. Murong Wei hadn't attended the banquet at all; instead, she had threatened Consort Xi to take her to see the Empress Dowager, or more precisely, to see her precious son, Ye Bao…

"Consort Xi, please. Didn't you come to pay your respects?" Murong Wei smiled and gestured for them to enter. The two stood before the gates of the Empress Dowager's Yanxi Palace.

"It was supposed to be a family banquet!" Consort Xi was displeased, but she couldn't show it. She avoided seeing the Empress Dowager if possible; compared to the ruthless Empress Dowager, she feared this unpredictable mother-in-law even more.

"Believe it or not, I'll really cripple your hand?" Murong Wei narrowed her eyes and said quietly.

"Murong Wei, if you have the ability to cure my poison, I'll fight you fair and square!" Xi Feng shouted angrily, stamping her foot.

"Consort Xi, have you ever fought fair and square?" Murong Wei still smiled gently.

"What exactly do you want?" Consort Xi asked, stamping her foot.

"Persuade the Empress Dowager to release my son from the palace." Murong Wei was straightforward.

"You! You want me to ask that old hag for him?" Consort Xi looked incredulous.

Just then, an old nanny wearing a white fox fur robe walked quickly over. It was the Empress Dowager's personal nanny, Granny Dai.

She stopped, stared coldly at Consort Xi, bowed slightly, and remained silent, it was unclear whether she had heard what Consort Xi had just said.

"I...I...I've come to pay my respects to the Empress Dowager of the West. Please, Granny Dai

, show me the way," Consort Xi had no choice but to speak. "Your Highness has gone to the Empress Dowager of the East's banquet. This servant

will take her leave," Granny Dai said, glancing casually at Murong Wei before turning and leaving, her expression as cold as her mistress's. "You old hag, daring to complain! I won't let you get away with this!" Consort Xi cursed inwardly, looking at Murong Wei with a reluctant expression.

"The Empress Dowager of the West will also attend the Empress Dowager of the East's banquet?" Murong Wei asked, puzzled.

"That banquet is for the princess of the Flowing Sand Kingdom. Perhaps the Prince Qi's mansion will gain another principal wife, so of course she'll go!" Consort Xi said coldly.

Murong Wei was taken aback, suddenly realizing the importance of this family banquet. The Liusha Kingdom was the strongest of all the vassal states, and once war broke out, Xuanyuan had no guarantee of victory. The princess sent for the marriage alliance was the legitimate princess of the Liusha Kingdom, and the intricate web of relationships involved meant that both the Empress Dowagers and the Emperor likely had their own plans. There were only two candidates: Xuanyuan Che and Xuanyuan Li.

This time, she wasn't surprised; marriage alliances between two countries were always like this—a marriage alliance, not a true alliance, much less a true relationship!

What surprised her was Consort Xi's attitude. If the Emperor betrothed Yelü Lingrong to Xuanyuan Che, the princess wouldn't be relegated to a concubine's position; she would undoubtedly be one of the two principal wives, directly threatening Gu Xihe! Yet she remained so calm and unconcerned. Why?

"Consort Xi seems completely unconcerned about the princess entering the Qi Prince's residence, but instead so concerned about a mere imperial physician like myself?" Murong Wei asked jokingly.

"Because! Because…because…" Consort Xi hesitated.

Murong Wei looked at him suspiciously and said seriously, "Gu Xihe, I have absolutely no interest in the Qi Prince's Mansion. Instead of wasting your energy on me, you should think about how to keep your position as the Empress. The Emperor has been in power for many years, does he really need Prime Minister Gu that much? What he needs more now is peace on the Western Regions

and a chance for Xuanyuan to recuperate." Unexpectedly, Gu Xihe sneered and said, "Let me tell you, the Qi Prince's Mansion was built on the site of a villa that the late Emperor bestowed upon the Empress. Lan Garden was the Empress's favorite garden at the time, now the Empress Dowager Cixi. All the magnolias in it were planted by the late Emperor himself. Do you know what that place means? You've only been in Xuanyuan for a few days, don't act like you know so much about Xuanyuan. In the end, you won't even know how you died!"

Murong Wei frowned suddenly. She had always felt that Lan Garden was special, but she never expected it to be like this. She didn't know what that place meant, but she knew that it was very, very important!

Why did such a favored empress's son not become crown prince, and why did the throne ultimately fall into the hands of a concubine's son?

Besides Xuan Yuanlie's ruthlessness, what else happened back then?

Seeing Murong Wei's stunned expression, Gu Xihe finally regained some face and coldly warned, "Murong Wei, no matter where you came from, you'd better get out of Lan Garden and leave the Qi Prince's residence as soon as possible, or don't blame me..."

"Threatening me?" Murong Wei coldly interrupted, retorting.

"A kind reminder!" Gu Xihe gritted her teeth and said, only then remembering that she was being threatened. She'd definitely make her pay once she found a way to cure the poison in her arm!

"Thank you. Wait for me at the palace gate. See you at the palace gate in three hours," Murong Wei said calmly.

"You..." Gu Xihe's words were cut short as Murong Wei's figure flashed and disappeared.

Gu Xihe frowned, not thinking much of it. She had no interest in the family banquet; it wasn't something she could control. She turned and headed straight for the Imperial Hospital. Murong Wei had better go burn incense and pray to Buddha so she wouldn't be cured of the poison now, or she would make her die a horrible death!

Murong Wei wouldn't go far. She landed in the backyard of Yanxi Palace, her sleeves rolled up high, her wide skirt tied into a bow. She was looking around the hall from the window, having to be extremely careful. Guns were useless, bombs were useless, and daggers and knives were of limited effectiveness for self-defense. Besides, everyone she was facing was someone she knew, and her appearance was ruined. Acting seductively was useless. She felt powerless and had no chance to use her skills. She hated this deep palace and powerful family. Every time this happened, she would make a firm decision to learn martial arts, so at least she could climb over the high walls without any help.

There weren't many servants in Yanxi Palace. Murong Wei secretly searched for Ye Bao for most of the day but couldn't find him. She wondered if the boy had gotten lucky and taken him to a banquet. After hesitating for a while

, she headed towards the banquet area in the Imperial Garden. However, she had barely left Yanxi Palace when she immediately slipped back in. She saw pairs of guards carrying long spears running past her in quick succession. A moment later, rows of fully armed guards leaped from the rooftops of the nearby palace complex, appearing as if they had materialized out of thin air. "

Truly worthy of being imperial guards, truly worthy of being Xuan Yuanlie's guards, so efficient!"

Murong Wei exclaimed in amazement, secretly following them. She could hear a commotion coming from afar.

"The assassin's there! In the Imperial Garden!"

"He's headed towards the Imperial Garden! All of you, go after him! Don't disturb the master, or you'll lose your heads!"

"Remember, he must be alive!"

...

Murong Wei hid in the bushes, watching the white-browed, pale-faced old eunuch coldly directing his men in the distance. She suddenly thought of the eunuchs from the Eastern and Western Depots in movies. This old fellow looked even more like the executed Eunuch Sun. This must be the legendary Eunuch Liu, trusted by Xuan Yuan Lie.

Who on earth could break into the palace and assassinate whom? Why had even the rarely seen Eunuch Liu come in person?

Murong Wei wondered, rubbing her cheek and scratching her hand. There were so many foxtail grasses here, making her feel itchy all over.

She slightly rose, trying to get a better look. It seemed that the banquet was just ahead in this direction. How could she get around it?

Beside him, Ye Bao, wearing a hat woven from foxtail grass and covered in foxtail grass from head to toe, remained motionless, sitting cross-legged with a long dog tail dangling from his mouth, occasionally scratching Murong Wei.

He waited and waited, finally slowly turning his head, his innocent face full of confusion. Had he disguised himself too well, that even his mother couldn't see through him?

He shook his head helplessly and lazily spoke, "Mommy, the assassin is here..."

Murong Wei was startled, slowly turning around. Upon closer inspection, she recognized the pair of foxtail grasses beside her as her beloved son, Ye Xiaoshao. "So it's you!"

Ye Bao grinned, looking embarrassed, and said, "I didn't mean to..."

"Slap!" Murong Wei slapped him hard. "Of all things to do, you had to be an assassin! Who are you trying to assassinate?"

"Mommy, it was that old man who wanted to silence me!" Ye Bao scratched his head, looking innocent.

"Confess!" Murong Wei said sternly.

"I secretly left Yanxi Palace after the Empress Dowager went to the banquet, trying to find a way to send you a message..." Before Ye Bao could finish speaking, Murong Wei slapped him again. "How did you get brought in?"

"Mommy, it was the Empress Dowager's decree; I had no choice but to obey!" Ye Bao said earnestly.

Murong Wei raised her hand, resting it on his head, and squinted, saying, "And then?"

This kid wouldn't get the truth out of her unless she pressed him. Sometimes she really didn't know how she could suspect that Xuan Yuanche was his father. How could someone so cold and sparing with words have such a silver tongue, a mouthful of lies comparable to Bai Wushang?

"After the Empress Dowager left, I went straight to the Imperial Study and saw something I shouldn't have seen," Ye Bao said crisply, not wasting a single word.

"Slap!" Murong Wei slapped him hard, this time serious.

"Mommy, it hurts!" Ye Bao immediately covered his head with both hands.

"How many times have I told you to stay away from palace intrigues and not to get involved here? Did you even remember?" Murong Wei said unhappily. "

I remember," Ye Bao said, head down, looking dejected.

"Swear!" Murong Wei said fiercely.

Ye Bao raised one finger and said, "I, Ye Shao..."

Murong Wei said coldly, "Be serious!"

Ye Bao straightened his back and said, "I, Ye Xiaobao!"

Murong Wei said in a deep voice, "Ye Wuming! Hands!"

Ye Bao shook off the dogtail grass covering his body, raised his hands high, and said seriously, "I, Ye Wuming, swear to stay away from palace intrigues and not to covet any of the palace treasures, otherwise Mommy will never get married!"

"Ye Wuming!" Murong was furious.

Ye Bao, however, had already flashed to a distance and said seriously, "Mommy, stop fooling around, go to the Imperial Study and take a look, that's definitely a good thing, I'm not lying to you! It's exactly the same as Old Bai's Eight-Layer Treasure Box!"

Hearing this, Murong Wei was instantly shocked and quickly followed, whispering, "How did you find it?"

"It was from the Thirteenth Prince's Xuanbing. The Xuanbing hadn't melted yet, it seems it was just broken open and hadn't been taken out yet, and the dog emperor went to the banquet." Ye Bao whispered.

"Why didn't you steal it?" Murong Wei asked naturally, having long forgotten the oath Ye Bao had just sworn.

"I hadn't even gotten close when that old white-faced guy showed up. Luckily, I escaped quickly!" Ye Bao breathed a sigh of relief and then said, "Mommy, that white-faced guy is really powerful, really."

Seeing that his mother didn't speak, he added, "He didn't see me and immediately called for assassins. It seems he doesn't dare to make this public."

Murong Wei stopped and frowned, saying, "In that case, the item is probably not there. Let's go back to Yanxi Palace first. If you arrest me, I won't recognize you!" "

Mommy, do you think Old White-faced guy can beat that white-faced guy?" Ye Bao asked seriously.

"I don't know either, I don't even know where the person has gone," Murong Wei said unhappily, pulling Ye Bao towards Yanxi Palace. She whispered, "Did the Empress Dowager give you a hard time?"

"I haven't seen her at all. Granny Dai said she went to a banquet and told me to play in the courtyard by myself. Granny Dai is so nice, even nicer than Aunt Li," Ye Bao said sweetly. "Mommy, did Prince Qi take you into the palace?"

"He came with Princess Qi. I have to leave soon. You must stay obediently in Yanxi Palace and don't run around anymore. I'm going back to find Bai Wushang to figure out a solution," Murong Wei said seriously.

Ye Bao nodded and said, "Mommy, is the dog emperor also looking for Emperor Xuanyuan's military treatise? Is the Thirteenth Prince on his side?"

"Probably," Murong Wei said.

"Mommy, tell Lao Bai that Ye Bao doesn't like the dog emperor, don't help him!" Ye Bao was really serious, his big, blinking eyes looking up at Murong Wei. What was going through his little head? What were his own thoughts about his origins, about Xiao Bai and Xuan Yuan Che's identities? Murong Wei didn't know.

They say children's intuition is very accurate; did Ye Bao have any?

"The emperor didn't do anything to you, so why did you call him 'dog emperor'?" Murong Wei laughed. If she took it seriously, Ye Bao would be afraid of her, but Ye Bao didn't know that when he was serious, she would also be afraid.

"I just instinctively don't like him!" Ye Bao replied.

"Let's go, let's go! I'm going to hurry out of the palace to find Lao Bai. Who knows, that guy might be looking for me in the Qi Prince's mansion!" Murong Wei said, patting Ye Bao's little head. She always covered him, but rarely really patted him hard.

After delivering Ye Bao to Yanxi Palace, she gave him a thorough explanation, taking a full half hour to leave. Her haste to enter the palace wasn't to offend the Empress Dowager by taking him away, but simply to give instructions—repeatedly—not to cause trouble.

Even at the palace gates, she could see archers swarming the rooftops towards the Imperial Study; that thing must be incredibly important. If Eunuch Liu knew that the "assassin" who had caused such a commotion was currently sitting in the main hall of Yanxi Palace gnawing on a pig's trotter, would he vomit blood and die?

Murong Wei thought to herself, smiling foolishly. Having a son was wonderful, having Ye Bao was wonderful.

Upon reaching the palace gates, she stopped sneaking around. Consort Xi stood inside, looking at her with a radiant expression.

"Is there no one in the entire Imperial Hospital who can cure this poison?" Murong Wei greeted her with a smile.

"Just you wait!" Gu Xihe said coldly, turning to leave. The guards at the palace gate recognized her and didn't say anything as they watched Murong Wei follow her out of the palace.

Murong Wei followed with a smile, in a good mood. However, as soon as they left the palace gate, Gu Xihe said coldly, "I've taken care of things for you. Go back to your respective residences. I don't have time for you to cling to me!"

Murong Wei waved her hand and squinted, saying, "I won't see you off."

Gu Xihe snorted again and slammed down the carriage curtain, where Madam Gu had been waiting for a long time.

"That's Murong Wei?" Madam Gu asked.

"Tell Father to find an expert to cure the poison as soon as possible. Once the poison is cured, I'll give her a slap first. You bitch!" Gu Xihe cursed through gritted teeth.

Madam Gu looked worried. "Xi'er, the results of the family banquet are in. The wedding is in three days, and she'll be the principal wife."

"As expected. Either she'll be sent to the Thirteenth Prince's residence or to the Qi Prince's residence. I'm used to it," Gu Xihe said calmly.

"That princess is no simpleton. The spies who followed the Thirteenth Prince said she clashed with Princess Qi Xi quite a bit along the way. She's not the gentle person they described," Madam Gu said seriously.

Gu Xihe glanced at her, but sneered, "Mother, if Father is so capable, he should side with Prince Qi, so he won't have to live in constant fear and worry about the Emperor's mood!"

"What are you saying!" Madam Gu frowned abruptly.

"Isn't that so? Every concubine in Prince Qi's mansion, including myself as his principal wife, was appointed by the Emperor. Every concubine below the rank of concubine, including the prisoners, was approved by the Emperor. Mother, I only care about my position in the Prince's heart. My position in Prince Qi's mansion has never belonged to Prince Qi!" Gu Xihe said calmly.

The capital city truly lived up to its name; its prosperity far surpassed that of the Han Kingdom's capital.

Murong Wei hired a donkey and weaved through the bustling streets, her eyes filled with wonder. She thought to herself, "If Ye Bao saw this spectacle, he certainly wouldn't want to stay in the palace."

Heading towards the Qi Prince's residence, the donkey's small size allowed it to weave through the crowded streets at its own pace.

Murong Wei, munching on a candied hawthorn, spurred the donkey past two carriages, marveling at how traffic jams existed even in ancient times.

She wondered how the family banquet had gone, shrugging to herself. It wasn't really her problem. However, Ye Bao had made a valid point.

"This road is really congested!" someone remarked beside her.

"Indeed, we should suggest the emperor widen the roads," Murong replied casually, as if chatting with a familiar friend, not bothering to think of a reply, her mind solely focused on Ye Bao's comment.

"What are you thinking about? So serious?" the person beside her asked again.

"I'm thinking about what Ye Bao told me," Murong Wei replied. Perhaps she was too engrossed in her thoughts, or perhaps she was too familiar with that voice, answering reflexively without even thinking.

"Hehe, what kind of crazy idea did Young Master Ye give you this time?" the person beside her laughed.

"Hey, you said if Thirteenth Master is helping the dog emperor, then..." Murong Wei said, turning back to look at Bai Wushang with a serious expression, but then stopped abruptly.

"How is Thirteenth Master helping the dog emperor?" Bai Wushang asked innocently, raising an eyebrow. He was sitting sideways on a small donkey, his white clothes fluttering, his black hair loose, swaying back and forth, a gourd of wine in his hand.

Murong Wei was stunned for a long time, then her eyes darkened, and she said unhappily, "Can you please stop appearing out of nowhere like this every time?"

"You seem to be quite used to it, don't you?" Bai Wushang laughed, wondering why she had answered so naturally just now!

"Where did you go last night?" Murong Wei asked.

"I heard there's a Hundred Flowers Lane in the capital, and the lane lives up to its name, hehe." Bai Wushang said in a low voice, his face full of ambiguity.

Murong Wei glanced at him, then turned around, whipped her donkey, and left.

Bai Wushang caught up, still with that carefree laugh, and said, "The Qi Prince's mansion is preparing for a wedding, let's not go and join the fun, my lord, I'll take you to Hundred Flowers Lane to see it, how about it?

" "A wedding?" Murong Wei was startled and stopped.

"It's all over the capital, and you didn't know?" Bai Wushang asked.

"The Qi Prince's... son?" Murong Wei asked incredulously.

"If the Qi Prince's son can live to marriageable age, that would be good." Bai Wushang smiled, a cold glint flashing in his narrow eyes.

Murong Wei was taken aback. "The princess of Liusha Kingdom has really been betrothed to Xuan Yuanche?"

Bai Wushang nodded, looking helpless, as if he were the Qi King who was about to accept the princess of Liusha Kingdom.

"So many women already, and you still betroth her to him!" Murong Wei rolled her eyes at him and continued walking.

"So, Weiwei, never fall in love with the Qi King, it'll be a tragedy." Bai Wushang sighed, still looking relaxed and carefree, following behind Murong Wei.

Murong Wei turned her head, frowning at him, and asked in confusion, "What do you mean by that?"

Bai Wushang stretched lazily and said, "What did you just say? The Thirteenth Prince is helping the dog emperor?"

Murong Wei was too lazy to banter with him and said, "Ye Bao saw something good in the Imperial Study, guess what it is!"

"The Imperial Study?" "Bai Wushang asked suspiciously, though his brows still betrayed his weariness.

"It was in the Imperial Study; I almost got caught by Eunuch Liu," Murong Wei explained.

"Why would Ye Bao bother with that Liu fellow? Where is he now?" Bai Wushang's tone was different as he asked.

"He's in the Empress Dowager's palace. She invited him there early this morning, but I was held up by Gu Xihe and couldn't follow. Later, I threatened Gu Xihe to take me into the palace. You need to find a way to get him out quickly; that brat will definitely cause trouble if he stays in the palace too long," Murong Wei said earnestly.

"Tsk tsk, could it be that our Ye Bao has caught the Empress Dowager's eye?!" "Bai Wushang still spoke in that joking tone, not at all nervous.

"Pah! Ye Bao is my son, it has nothing to do with you. You, surnamed Bai, can't you be serious? You were the one who said you wanted to follow the Thirteenth Prince, and you're the one who ran away halfway, causing my son and me to end up in this situation. One of us is trapped in the palace, facing a cold old man, and the other is trapped in the Prince's mansion, facing a group of women who are always looking for trouble and fighting over him. You, on the other hand, are living a carefree life. How can you bear it? How can you stand it?" Murong Wei questioned angrily.

"So what are your plans?" Bai Wushang let her accuse him, whether it was because he was shameless or used to being a rogue, he was neither angry nor ashamed, but rather cheerful.

"What Ye Bao saw in the Imperial Study was the treasure that the Thirteenth Prince won from Hei Tu at auction. It's also an eight-layered treasure box. The Thirteenth Prince is on the side of the dog emperor. You can decide what to do yourself!" Murong Wei was straightforward and didn't waste any more words with him.

"An eight-layered treasure box?" Bai Wushang finally showed a hint of seriousness.

Murong Wei looked at him with a reassuring expression and nodded.

"Then we should follow the Thirteenth Prince even more." Bai Wushang stroked his chin, looking thoughtful.

"Why? Ye Bao said that helping the Thirteenth Prince is the same as helping the dog emperor, and he won't agree to that." Murong Wei said.

"What about you? What do you think?" Bai Wushang raised an eyebrow and asked.

“Xuanyuan Li is naive and simple-minded; frankly, he’s just a child. He can’t protect us at all. Besides, with that old fox Xuanyuan Lie watching us, things might not go smoothly. It’s better to choose Prince Qi’s side. He can protect us and also get information about Xuanyuan Li,” Murong Wei analyzed.

Bai Wushang stared at her in surprise, without saying a word.

“Is there a problem?” Murong Wei asked, puzzled.

“Weiwei, when did Prince Qi tell you that he was going to find Emperor Xuanyuan’s military treatise? And when did he tell you that he was going to stand against Xuanyuan Lie?” Bai Wushang asked, equally puzzled.

“What do you mean by that?” Murong Wei was equally confused. Did even this guy believe that Prince Qi was really so nonchalant and indifferent to power?

“The literal meaning,” Bai Wushang said.

“Prince Qi controls the gunpowder mines, secondly, he is of noble birth, a true prince, thirdly, he has a good reputation and is popular with the people, and fourthly, although Prince Qi's mansion has many women, it also wields considerable power, not only within the Xuanyuan Dynasty but also with the surrounding vassal states. If a princess from the Liusha Kingdom were to join the fray, and Prince Qi could bring all these forces under his control, dealing with Xuanyuan Lie would be a piece of cake!” Murong Wei said earnestly.

Bai Wushang looked at her, remaining silent for a long time…

Two little donkeys wobbled away from the noisy crowd, heading into a secluded alley.

Bai Wushang yawned, looking exhausted, as if he hadn't slept for days and nights. Murong Wei stared at him suspiciously, then couldn't help but ask, "Was there something wrong with what I just said?"

She had just analyzed all of Xuan Yuanche's advantages, and he was already looking so tired, completely out of sorts.

Bai Wushang shook his head, stretched, and lightly jumped off the donkey, saying, "Xuan Yuanli is easy to fool, let's stick with him. I can't figure out Prince Qi!"

"You haven't even tried, how do you know you can't figure him out? I always felt that Prince Qi was not simple, otherwise Xuan Yuanlie would have killed him long ago, instead of being on guard day and night!" Murong Wei analyzed further.

Bai Wushang tightened the reins, his brows furrowed, and asked earnestly, "Weiwei, why are you so concerned about Prince Qi? It's not that..."

He turned his head, his narrow eyes smiling mischievously, and whispered, "You've taken a liking to him, haven't you?"

"Pah! Bai Wushang, let's talk business! If you still insist on following the Thirteenth Prince, then first get me to the Prince Li's residence, then get Ye Bao out too, and then persuade Ye Bao!" Murong Wei said, rolling her eyes.

"Hehe, the business is to find that locksmith!" Bai Wushang smiled brightly, stepped forward, took the reins of the little donkey, and pulled Murong Wei deeper into the alley.

Murong Wei narrowed her eyes, staring coldly at the back of his head. This guy had been changing the subject the whole way, and he became more and more frivolous whenever Prince Qi was mentioned. Why was that?

"Bai Wushang," Murong Wei said seriously.

"Yes, sir!" Bai Wushang turned around, took the reins, and bowed.

"If you have any complaints about Prince Qi, just say it!" Murong Wei said in a deep voice.

"Lord Murong, Prince Qi is so high and mighty, I have never even seen his face, so I dare not have any thoughts." Bai Wushang really did act like a servant, even imitating the high-pitched voice of a eunuch, and reported.

Murong Wei's face darkened, and she didn't speak.

Bai Wushang looked at her, smiled good-naturedly, and patiently bowed and waited, without saying a word.

The two of them were locked in a standoff.

Crows flew by, white clouds drifted by, time kept flowing, and still no one spoke first.

Bai Wushang turned around, pulled on the reins, and continued to walk leisurely.

Murong Wei was silent, her little mouth pouting high, she always felt that there was something wrong with this guy!

"Hey, this is for you." Murong Wei said, not caring whether Bai Wushang turned around or not, she threw a packet of pills directly at the back of his head. This was the medicine she had made overnight in the cold cellar the night he disappeared.

Bai Wushang didn't even have time to catch it before it hit him in the face as he turned around.

"Thump..." The medicine packet landed on the ground. He frowned at her, his expression somewhat serious.

Murong Wei was startled, not remembering ever seeing Lord Wushang so serious before. She pursed her lips and said indifferently, "Take it before bed every day, one pill with two cups of water, hot or cold. Come here, let me take your pulse."

"No need, my lord, I won't die." Bai Wushang smiled, a forced smile, his tone extremely strange. He turned and continued walking, letting the donkey trample over the medicine packet on the ground without even glancing at it.

Murong Wei's heart skipped a beat. She quickly turned back to look at the crushed medicine bag, her teeth clenching. She jerked her head back sharply and shouted angrily, "Stop! I'm tired. I'm going back to the Qi Prince's residence. Unlock it yourself!"

Bai Wushang stopped, stroking the little donkey's head, and said calmly, "I won't force you. If you want to go with the Qi Prince, ask him if he agrees before making a decision. I'll come find you again in a few days."

"Okay!" Murong Wei shouted, leaping off the donkey's back and turning to leave without looking back.

Reaching the flattened medicine bag, she gritted her teeth and stomped on it hard. Not satisfied with just one stomp, she stomped again before quickly leaving. It was

truly inexplicable. Why was Bai so angry? He had been missing for so long, and she hadn't been angry or argued with him at all!

Only after Murong Wei's figure disappeared at the alley entrance did Bai Wushang slowly turn around and walk towards the medicine bag. He squatted down and carefully picked it up. His usually playful handsome face was expressionless, a coldness never seen before, exactly like Xuan Yuanche's. His deep eyes were lowered, revealing no emotion.

He held the crushed medicine bag tightly in his arms, as if it were his most precious treasure. A faint smile slowly curved his beautiful lips, gentle and subtle, yet it seemed to contain all the sorrow and joy of the world.

He turned and walked slowly in the opposite direction from Murong Wei, his back so lonely and desolate, yet so calm and composed...

Deep in the alley, Liu Jian had been waiting silently for a long time. Seeing Bai Wushang come alone, he only said indifferently, "Doctor Murong didn't come?"

Bai Wushang did not answer him and walked into a room on the side.

Liu Jian didn't ask any further questions, following behind and whispering, "He's a discerning fellow, Master, be careful."

Bai Wushang nodded, and after passing through an alley, they saw an old monk sitting alone in the courtyard, diligently grinding an iron pestle.

The old monk was about fifty or sixty years old, bald, and his robes and shoes were very neat; it was unclear whether he was a real monk or a fake one.

Liu Jian had been searching throughout the capital for days, and finally found someone willing to take the job.

Bai Wushang sat down opposite him, but the old monk remained focused on grinding his iron pestle, oblivious to his surroundings.

"Bald monk, how about unlocking a lock?" Bai Wushang asked indifferently, his usual smile gone.

"Hush money?" The old monk still didn't look at him, maintaining a haughty and calm demeanor.

"One life!" Bai Wushang's tone remained indifferent as he stepped on the iron pestle.

The monk tried to pull it out, but couldn't manage it no matter how many times he tried. He looked up and met Bai Wushang's narrow eyes, and was shocked.

"Your life," Bai Wushang said coldly, taking out the small golden box from his sleeve and carelessly tossing it onto the millstone. He added, "I'll give you the time it takes to brew a cup of tea. Whether you open it or not, you'll die. How you die is up to you."

The old monk's hands trembled with fear. He turned to Liu Jian for help, but Liu Jian remained expressionless, wondering what was wrong with his master today.

Bai Wushang stomped heavily on the ground, coldly and displeasedly saying, "What are you dawdling for?"

"My lord, spare me! My lord, spare me!" The old monk hurriedly retreated, kowtowing and begging for mercy. "My lord, someone came to open this treasure box before. My abilities are limited, but I can take you to another person. If you spare my lowly life, I will definitely take you there!"

His appearance and self-proclaimed title were nothing like a real monk. Bai Wushang coldly asked, "Who came looking for it before? The same item?"

"Exactly the same, just different colors. Yours is gold, his is silver. This thing is exquisitely made, with unique carvings. I must have a photographic memory. That person was a young hero. After I refused, he threw ten taels of silver and left."

"When did this happen?" Bai Wushang asked again.

"About half a year ago," the old monk quickly replied, seeing an opportunity.

"Appearance, clothing?" Bai Wushang asked.

"Judging by his appearance, he must be from Nanzhao. He's only in his early twenties, very handsome, like a god. Oh, and he has a flute tucked into his belt," the old monk said hastily.

"Anything else?" Bai Wushang's tone remained cold.

"No, he came in a hurry and left in a hurry," the old monk replied quickly.

"You just said someone could pick locks, how can you be so sure?" Bai Wushang asked.

"He definitely can, there's no lock in this world he can't pick, sir. That person lives a secluded life, I'll take you to find him right now, please spare me!" the old monk pleaded repeatedly.

Bai Wushang remained expressionless, kicking the golden box to Liu Jian, and said indifferently, "Go with him."

"Aren't you coming?" Liu Jian's delicate brows furrowed slightly, puzzled.

"Find the person first, then we'll talk about it," Bai Wushang instructed calmly.

"Yes," Liu Jian said, grabbing the old monk and shoving him out. "Lead the way."

He turned back, but Bai Wushang was nowhere to be seen.

This guy always smiled, no matter how angry he was; what was wrong with him today?

After leaving the alley, Bai Wushang headed straight for the palace.

If the old monk wasn't lying, then it meant there was more than one Eight-Layered Treasure Box. The one in the Vast Sea Lake was the smallest, a locked gold box; the one the old monk mentioned for the young hero was a locked silver box. So what about the one in the Imperial Study?

What secrets were hidden here? Truth and falsehood, reality and illusion—which treasure box contained the Vast Sea Key?

Night had fallen, and the palace security was still in place. Eunuch Liu was still personally leading his men to search everywhere, but they hadn't found the so-called assassin yet.

Bai Wushang crawled on the palace gate, about to leap down, when he saw Eunuch Liu rushing over with several guards.

All the guards at the city gate immediately bowed their heads, extremely respectful. Eunuch Liu was the most influential eunuch beside Xuan Yuanlie, second only to the emperor in both the inner palace and the court. He was far more astute than Sun Desheng in assessing situations. Eunuch

Liu, dressed in imposing official robes, his old face as white as a ghost, long eyebrows reaching his temples, coldly swept his gaze over the crowd and asked, "Who allowed Princess Qi to leave the palace today?"

"Yes...yes, yes, it was your subordinate!" a guard timidly stepped forward.

"Weren't the palace gates sealed off? Who gave you permission to let her pass? I heard it wasn't just Consort Xi." Eunuch Liu asked calmly.

"Reporting...reporting...reporting to Eunuch Liu, the Prince Qi's residence allows free entry and exit from the palace gates. This was approved by the Empress Dowager. Your subordinate dared not disobey the Empress Dowager's decree." the guard said timidly. "

Is that so? And what about the people she brought?" Eunuch Liu asked again.

"Your subordinate...your subordinate, Consort Xi has always disliked servants interfering. Your subordinate dared not inquire further." the guard said, utterly helpless.

"Heh, even Madam Gu was stopped outside the palace, so how come Consort Xi brought others in and out?" Eunuch Liu asked again.

"Eunuch Liu, Madam Gu and Consort Xi arrived one after the other. I didn't intentionally differentiate them. When Consort Xi entered the palace, the gates weren't locked yet, and when she left, she walked out without anyone else. Please investigate thoroughly, Your Excellency!" The guard said, kneeling down with a thud.

"Who did she bring?" Eunuch Liu asked again, his expression unreadable.

"She brought the imperial physician from Prince Qi's residence, Murong Wei," the guard answered truthfully. Eunuch

Liu scrutinized the guard for a long time, then said coldly, "Remember this: from now on, no matter who it is, except for the Emperor, once the palace gates are locked, even the Heavenly King himself cannot enter or leave! Guards, drag him away and behead him!"

Instantly, silence fell. No one dared to speak. On the high wall, Bai Wushang's lips curled into a cold smile as he silently descended...

The night was deep, the moon hung high, and after a night of commotion, the palace finally fell completely silent.

Outside the Imperial Study, Eunuch Liu stood guard, his pale face dark with a stern expression.

Inside, Xuan Yuanlie lazily leaned against the heated couch, propping his head up with one hand, raising an eyebrow at Xuan Yuanli sitting beside him.

Since the family banquet, this boy had been staying in the Imperial Study.

"Ali, it seems you haven't visited Mother Empress in a long time, have you?" Xuan Yuanlie asked with a smile.

"I saw her the day I returned to the palace. I'm afraid my elder brother has been the one who hasn't visited Mother Empress in the longest," Xuan Yuanli said bluntly. He gave his brother face in public, but not always in private.

"What kind of tone is that when you speak to me?" Xuan Yuanlie's voice turned cold as he retorted.

Xuan Yuanli stood up and bowed respectfully, saying, "Your Majesty, I have found what you requested. I hope you will fulfill your promise. I will decide my own marriage." "

Wasn't the princess of Liusha Kingdom supposed to be given to your seventh brother?" Xuan Yuanlie asked.

"Your Majesty, I hope that in the future, I can decide my own marriage," Xuan Yuanli repeated.

"Heh, as your elder brother, would I make things difficult for you, or would I wrong you?" Xuan Yuanlie asked again.

"No, I'm just making a request," Xuan Yuanli suppressed his anger. He regretted sending that thing first!

"Does anyone know anything about that thing?" Xuan Yuanlie changed the subject.

"No one has seen it. The Shang people who provided the information have all been silenced," Xuan Yuanli replied coldly.

"Is that so? What about your subordinates?" Xuan Yuanlie asked again.

"No one knows what it is, and no one knows it was sent to the Imperial Study. Your Majesty can rest assured," Xuan Yuanli said seriously.

"I heard you met Ren Fan at the stone gambling competition?" Xuan Yuanlie asked again.

"Yes, he wasn't interested in this stone," Xuan Yuanlie said.

"I heard that Murong Wei helped you bid for it, without spending much gold, and even tricked Ren Fan?" Xuan Yuanlie asked again. Even though he had entrusted the matter to Xuan Yuanli, he still knew everything he wanted to know.

"Yes." Xuan Yuanli said in a deep voice. There was a spy among those who hated him the most!

"Where is Bai Wushang? Isn't there another Bai Wushang who hasn't arrived yet?" Xuan Yuanlie asked again.

"He disappeared halfway and didn't make it to the stone gambling event." Xuan Yuanli replied.

"Hehe, Bai Wushang is a rare talent. Li, I promise you, you can decide your own marriage. How about you continue searching for the remaining seven treasure boxes for me? Take Bai Wushang with you." Xuan Yuanlie said.

Xuan Yuanli was delighted and quickly said, "Your subject has a request."

"Speak!" Xuan Yuanlie was also delighted, a cold smile hidden in his eyes. Of all his brothers, only his own younger brother could be controlled by him.

"Murong Wei is proficient in medicine and gambling. Your subject wishes to ask Your Majesty to intervene and ask the Prince of Qi for her." Xuan Yuanli said directly.

Xuan Yuanlie raised an eyebrow at him and remained silent for a long time.

“Brother, Murong Wei is incredibly clever and resourceful, full of tricks. She even saved me when I fell ill. With her by my side, I can get things done much better!” Xuan Yuanli said hastily.

“Heh, Li, you’re a married man, and your child is already so big. It’s not suitable,” Xuan Yuanlie said, his words carrying a hidden meaning.

“Her husband died long ago, and that child is clever and a good helper. Brother, please grant my request!” Xuan Yuanli stepped forward, his tone pleading, seemingly not truly understanding the implication in Xuan Yuanlie’s words. A

complex expression flashed across Xuan Yuanlie’s eyes as he said calmly, “You may leave now. Don’t act rashly. I’ll think of a way.”

“Thank you, Brother!” Xuan Yuanli quickly bowed, unable to hide his joy.

Xuan Yuanlie watched his retreating figure, a cold smile creeping onto his lips. He muttered to himself, “Murong Wei, she’s quite the smooth talker!”

A moment later, Eunuch Liu entered, kneeling on one knee, head bowed, silent.

"Bang!"

Xuan Yuanlie slammed down the teacup in his hand, shouting, "Useless thing! If this news leaks out, Sun Desheng's fate will be yours!"

"Yes, Your Majesty! Your Majesty, Your Majesty, I will find that person tonight!" Even the usually stern Eunuch Liu trembled; this matter was of utmost importance.

"Bring the item here!" Xuan Yuanlie said coldly.

Eunuch Liu then rose and went behind the curtain. Behind the curtain was clearly a stone wall, but he took out an eight-layered treasure box and respectfully placed it in front of Xuan Yuanlie.

"Just as the royal legend says, an eight-layered treasure box!" Xuan Yuanlie sneered, slowly opening each of the eight treasure boxes one by one.

On the rooftop, Bai Wushang frowned, watching intently. However, Xuan Yuanlie's tall figure blocked most of the view, and he could only see a few unlocked treasure boxes, while others were completely hidden.

He waited for a long time, and when he saw Xuan Yuanlie about to turn around, his eyes darkened, and he became even more focused. Just then, a pair of small hands suddenly covered his mouth.

He froze, then turned to see a youthful, radiant smile. Ye Bao…

“Shh…” Ye Bao hissed, pointing directly at the archers in the courtyard, and whispered, “Hurry, Eunuch Liu has dispatched many guards. Their next move is definitely to lure the enemy out!”

He then released Bai Wushang’s hand, pointed to the right, and said, “Go down from there. There’s a very dense forest. The guards won’t go that way. It’s the safest route in the palace.”

“Young Master Ye, you know this place well,” Bai Wushang teased. His previously gloomy mood brightened upon seeing Ye Bao’s bright smile.

"Hehe, that's where they sell palace treasures. Everyone in the trade knows that. They won't shoot arrows this way, and they certainly won't search this area. Don't worry," Ye Bao said seriously, patting Bai Wushang's shoulder.

"You little rascal, you've even come to the palace to be greedy!" Bai Wushang smiled helplessly, following Ye Bao as they carefully slid down to the right. They hadn't gone far when they actually saw a secret passage.

The two entered the woods, and Ye Bao suddenly stopped.

"Kid, forgot the way?" Bai Wushang chuckled.

Ye Bao turned around, blinking his big eyes at him, saying nothing. In the moonlight, it seemed as if his eyes were glistening with tears.

"Don't tell the officials what trouble you've gotten into. I can't handle the officials in this palace," Bai Wushang said with a smile.

Ye Bao shook his head.

"Then what happened? Did your mother do something to you?" Bai Wushang rubbed his chin, pretending to be serious, genuinely unable to figure out what mischief this kid was up to now.

Ye Bao shook his head again.

"What happened to the Empress Dowager?" Bai Wushang continued to ask.

Ye Bao shook her head again.

"Could it be..." Before Bai Wushang could finish speaking, Ye Bao suddenly rushed over, choking back tears, "Old Bai, where did you go? Ye Bao missed you so much! Ye Bao thought you didn't want me and Mom anymore! Waaah..."

"Old Bai, Ye Bao thought you'd abandoned Mommy and me..."

Moonlight filtered through the dense foliage, the forest was quiet. Bai Wushang's smile froze on his beautifully shaped lips, his long, narrow eyes suddenly falling silent as he looked at Ye Bao, who was clinging tightly to his leg, without saying a word.

"Old Bai, where did you go? Why are you only coming now? You don't even know that Mommy and I were almost harmed by that scoundrel of an emperor!" Ye Bao looked up at him, blinking his big eyes as he asked.

"Some things kept me in the way," Bai Wushang said calmly, a warm smile finally appearing on his lips as he affectionately patted Ye Bao's little head.

"What is it? Is it more important than Mommy and me?" Ye Bao asked earnestly.

Bai Wushang was taken aback, truly unsure how to answer this child. He could outmaneuver Murong Wei, but he just couldn't outmaneuver this little one, whose questions always left him helpless.

Ye Bao blinked, waiting for his answer.

"How did you end up here? Your mommy just warned you, haha. Tell me, how do you want to shut me up?" Bai Wushang chuckled, changing the subject.

"You haven't answered my question yet!" Ye Bao said seriously, stubbornly insisting on getting a straight answer.

Bai Wushang squatted down, placing his arms on Ye Bao's feet, his face serious, and said in a solemn tone, "Ye Bao, let me put it this way, it depends on the situation. Actually, in my heart, you and your mommy are the most important people, but your mommy won't marry me, so... for now, I have to leave when I encounter other people's problems." Ye Bao tilted his head,

blinking his large, clear eyes as he stared at Bai Wushang, who looked troubled and innocent, without speaking for a long time.

"What do you think?" Bai Wushang asked again, sighing helplessly and lowering his head.

"Old Bai..." Ye Bao hesitated, wanting to speak but stopping himself.

"Hmm?" Bai Wushang looked up, gently patting Ye Bao's shoulder, as if to say, "You know, you have to understand."

"Old Bai, I was just asking casually, why are you so nervous? You're not my father, of course Mommy and I aren't the most important people to you!" Ye Bao changed the subject, genuinely understanding.

Bai Wushang almost choked on his own saliva, pursed his lips and stood up. Was this kid deliberately playing word games with him?

Ye Bao quickly grabbed his hand, smiling ambiguously, and said, "Old Bai, based on what you just said, do you like my mommy?"

Bai Wushang turned around and grinned at him, saying, "Sir, didn't I like your mommy a long time ago?"

"Old Bai, I'm serious!" Ye Bao said earnestly, as if he were the one confessing.

Helpless, Bai Wushang still smiled, "Sir, when have I ever joked?" After saying that, he walked forward.

"Old Bai! I really wasn't joking!" Ye Bao chased after him, explaining.

"Young Master Ye, I really wasn't joking." Bai Wushang was still smiling. Perhaps his words were always a joke, or perhaps they were never a joke at all; no one could tell.

"Old Bai, wait a minute, we need to discuss something!" Ye Bao caught up and grabbed Bai Wushang's leg, desperately trying to stop him from taking another step forward.

"Help you smuggle those things out? No way!" Bai Wushang turned his head and slowly shook his ten fingers.

"The Thirteenth Prince likes my mommy, we can't cause such a big problem for her, we'll side with Prince Qi!" Ye Bao quickly voiced his plan.

Bai Wushang stopped, a complex look flashing in his eyes. He stroked his chin and smiled playfully, "You little devil, the Thirteenth Prince won't like your mommy."

"If he doesn't like him, why give mommy special privileges? And why ask the dog emperor for mommy?" Ye Bao asked.

"Because your mommy is amazing, right? That dog emperor sent him to search for treasure, he must have a strategist by his side, didn't you hear him just praise you too?" Bai Wushang said.

"You have to trust my intuition!" Ye Bao said.

Bai Wushang looked around, then mysteriously gestured for Ye Bao to come closer.

"What?" Ye Bao asked irritably.

"A secret, the Thirteenth Prince's secret." Bai Wushang whispered.

Ye Bao quickly leaned closer, and no one knew what Bai Wushang whispered in his ear, but his pink face turned pale, then red, then pale again, looking incredibly strange.

"Really?" Ye Bao exclaimed.

"Really!" Bai Wushang nodded seriously.

"My God..." Ye Bao was amazed.

"So... do you understand?" Bai Wushang asked.

"Understood!" Ye Bao nodded emphatically. "

Since the Thirteenth Prince is asking the dog emperor for people, let's just wait. I think it won't happen until after Prince Qi's wedding and the royal autumn hunt. In the meantime, let's enjoy ourselves at Prince Qi's mansion." Bai Wushang said with a smile.

“I understand, but, Lao Bai… helping the Thirteenth Prince is helping the dog emperor. Compared to Prince Qi, I don’t like the dog emperor.” Ye Bao frowned, looking troubled.

“Compared to Prince Qi, he didn’t provoke you, so why don’t you like him?” Bai Wushang asked.

“I just don’t like him! It’s just my gut feeling!” Ye Bao said, avoiding Bai Wushang’s gaze.

“Hehe, who said we were helping the Thirteenth Prince? We were just using his connections. Who told your mommy to offend Fatty Long, leaving me homeless?” Bai Wushang said helplessly.

“That’s true… but…” Ye Bao still looked troubled.

“Your mommy agreed.” Bai Wushang quickly added.

"It's her business if she agrees, I think... sigh..." Ye Bao sighed deeply, hesitant to speak.

Bai Wushang was very direct, giving him a sidelong glance and asking bluntly, "So, how much stuff are you taking out?"

"Hehe!" Ye Bao immediately grinned like a child, saying, "This... consider it my contribution!"

As he spoke, he carefully took something out of his wide blue robe, tilted his head back to meet the faint sunlight, and grinned at Bai Wushang, revealing two mischievous little tiger teeth with an innocent and radiant smile.

Bai Wushang was immediately stunned when he saw the item, taking a long time to recover.

Ye Bao carefully tugged at his sleeve, "Old Bai, it's genuine, feel it, I'm not lying to you, really."

Bai Wushang finally recovered, staring at the item with disbelief.

"Old Bai! Old Bai!" Ye Bao whispered, pulling hard. Finally, Bai Wushang moved, took the eight-layered treasure box, and frowned, saying, "Where did this come from?"

"It's the one in the Imperial Study! I switched it." Ye Bao explained.

"Where did you get the replica?" Bai Wushang asked, frowning.

"Hehe, I made one on the road before, and I've been hiding it... just for fun!" Ye Bao chuckled.

Bai Wushang would never believe that. He narrowed his long, narrow eyes and slowly approached.

"No! I didn't switch yours, really, I can't even find it!" Ye Bao blurted out. He had originally prepared this replica for Bai Wushang, but he hadn't expected it to be used in the Imperial Study.

Bai Wushang got very close, but still didn't speak.

"I swear!" Ye Bao immediately raised his hands.

"I swear that during your time in the palace, you won't steal, rob, cheat, deceive, or run around recklessly and won't offend anyone, especially the dog emperor and that old white-faced man!" Bai Wushang demanded very seriously.

"A newborn calf is not afraid of a tiger!" This kid actually dared to steal something from Xuan Yuanlie's imperial study, and he even succeeded! This is pure luck, luck that only lasts once!

Ye Bao had never seen Lord Wu Shang with such a serious expression, and quickly murmured, "I swear that during my time in the palace, I will not steal, rob, cheat, deceive, or swindle, and I will not wander around or offend anyone, especially the dog emperor and that old white face!"

"Otherwise?" Bai Wu Shang asked.

"Otherwise, Mommy will marry..." Before Ye Bao could finish speaking, Bai Wu Shang glanced at Murong Wei and slapped him, "Otherwise, you will be allergic to gold for the rest of your life!"

"That's too cruel! Old Bai..." Ye Bao looked up, wanting to cry but having no tears.

"Speak!"

Ye Bao was extremely unwilling, gritting his teeth as he spoke each word, "Otherwise... I, Ye Bao, will be allergic to gold for the rest of my life!"

Bai Wu Shang nodded in satisfaction, put away the eight-layered treasure box, and suddenly, his eyes darkened as he looked to his right.

There was movement!

Ye Bao was still resentful when Bai Wushang suddenly grabbed him and steered him to the left. Soon, the footsteps around them grew louder and louder.

Ye Bao was startled and didn't dare make a sound, following closely, his heart pounding with anxiety. Weren't guards supposed to be here?

"Go in and search!" It was Eunuch Liu's voice, seemingly from the right.

"Get on, quick!" Bai Wushang stopped and crouched down.

"Old Bai, what happened?" Ye Bao quickly climbed onto his back and whispered.

Bai Wushang didn't speak, continuing forward. The denser the woods ahead, the faster his steps became. To be able to move so silently through the dense foliage was astounding. Ye Bao, burying his face in Bai Wushang's broad back, clearly felt branches and leaves constantly brushing past him, yet none touched him. How fast could one move like that?

When he opened his eyes, they were back in the backyard of Yanxi Palace.

Bai Wushang placed him on the stone table, one hand on his stomach, panting as he smiled at him, saying, "See? There's never a completely safe place in the palace."

"Maybe..." Ye Bao wanted to explain, but Bai Wushang pointed behind him. He turned around suspiciously and looked into the distance, only to see flames already raging in the sky—it was the grove of trees they had just left!

"Stay here obediently. Prince Qi is never ambitious; he's not as cunning as you and your mother think. The Empress Dowager is a devout Buddhist and rarely goes out. She probably left you here to relieve your boredom and learn from her. It won't do any harm!" Bai Wushang said with a smile.

Ye Bao still stared at the flames, patting his chest heavily with his little hands. Thank goodness! If it weren't for Xiaobai, wouldn't he be roasted alive by now?

"Someone's coming. Stay here obediently. I'll come to see you!" Bai Wushang said, gently hugging him from behind. Before Ye Bao could turn around, his figure vanished in a flash.

"Old Bai, how do you know the palace roads so well?" Ye Bao scratched his head, still staring at the distant fire. There were so many winding corridors and paths from the Imperial Study to Yanxi Palace!

As dawn broke, the Qi Prince's mansion was already bustling with activity.

The Qi Prince had received a decree in the palace that in two days he would marry Princess Yelü Lingrong of the Liusha Kingdom as his principal wife, with the original principal wife, Gu Xihe, becoming the left principal wife, and Princess Yelü becoming the right principal wife.

In the Divine Continent, slaves all wore earrings on the left side; unsurprisingly, left signified lowliness and right signified nobility.

Although both were principal wives, the left and right positions still indicated a hierarchy.

Since last night, the entire mansion had been in an uproar. The Qi Prince had not yet shown his face, and Consort Xihe had remained at the General's Mansion, not returning all night. Li Jie was still in charge of managing affairs.

Unlike the hustle and bustle of the mansion, the Orchid Garden in the bamboo grove remained quiet and peaceful.

Murong Wei, unusually early, ate her meal alone in the courtyard. She had been listless since returning last night and hadn't heard a word from Qing'er.

"Has the Prince returned to the mansion?" Murong Wei asked calmly.

"My lady, we can't find out the Prince's whereabouts at all. I've been in the manor for many years and I've never seen any of the concubines know that the Prince has returned. Even Consort Xi got the news from the palace," Qing'er replied.

"The wedding is imminent, isn't he personally handling the arrangements?" Murong Wei asked.

"It's all Sister Li who's handling it," Qing'er said, stepping forward and whispering, "Even when he married Consort Xi, Consort De, and Consort Zhen, the entire ten-mile-long street was deserted, and the red carpet stretched all the way to the side gate of the manor. The Prince never greeted them; he just stood in the wedding hall waiting."

"Even the principal wife enters through the side gate?" Murong Wei asked in surprise.

"Indeed, but it's not against the rules. The Prince is undoubtedly the only legitimate son of the late Emperor. To be frank, the title of the person he marries isn't Empress. No one with a title can enter through the main gate of the Qi Prince's manor!"

"So many rules. Go get some Lingzhi tea. I haven't had it in a long time and I've been craving it," Murong Wei said calmly.

"Master, do you like Lingzhi tea?" Qing'er asked with a smile, not realizing when Murong Wei had suddenly become her mistress.

Murong Wei didn't pay much attention, nodded, and chewed a peanut.

"Lanyuan doesn't have Lingzhi tea, I'll ask Sister Li for some! I'll be right back!" Qing'er said with a smile, then hurriedly retreated.

Murong Wei ate a few more peanuts, got up, lazily stretched, and went straight to the right-hand door.

She wondered if Prince Qi had returned yet, so she decided to go directly to him. That guy was strange enough; he brought her back and then just left her there without a word. She had important matters to discuss with him.

Prince Qi's courtyard was opposite Sister Li's residence, separated by a lotus pond.

Murong Wei followed Qing'er to the lotus pond, turned right, and slipped into the backyard of Jingxuan.

Jingxuan was somewhat similar in style to Lanyuan, elegant and secluded, but unlike Lanyuan, it was surrounded by high walls, making it seem like a separate place despite being a residence.

Murong Wei silently scaled the wall and entered the backyard. She saw many brightly colored flowers, the prized Light Summer Violet, a rare variety found throughout the land. The flowers resembled peonies, but were larger, each plant bearing only one single, pinkish-purple bloom, standing gracefully on the branch—a truly beautiful sight.

The entire backyard was filled with these flowers, like a dreamlike garden. It looked like a woman's residence, and Murong Wei couldn't help but wonder, could it be that Prince Qi liked such flowers?

The surroundings were extremely quiet; there were no maids or guards in sight. Murong Wei slipped through the flowers, entered a side door, and stealthily climbed the stairs to the second floor. It was just a small two-story pavilion, easy to find.

However, when Murong Wei stood on the second-floor balcony and looked out, she realized that the entire pavilion was empty, completely deserted. The tables, chairs, and beds inside were very simple, all covered in a layer of dust; it hadn't been lived in for at least half a year.

Didn't Prince Qi live here?

Could it be that he stayed in the concubines' courtyards every day?

Murong Wei suspiciously entered the room again, carefully examining it. There were indeed no signs of anyone having lived there.

Just as she was about to leave, she suddenly stopped, her hand lightly sweeping over the table. Her eyes darkened as she noticed something!

All the furniture here was made of precious purple wood, which would never rot and had a faint purple wood fragrance. She wiped away the dust, bent down, and truly smelled it. She was quite certain that it was indeed rare purple wood!

Light summer violet and purple wood—how could this be?

Was it a coincidence, or was someone deliberately doing this?

Staying in an environment where these two scents were mixed for a long time would definitely lead to poisoning within six months, and it was a slow-acting poison that wouldn't be easy to cure!

Murong Wei sat down in a daze, her brows furrowed. She finally understood why Prince Qi had accumulated chronic poison in his body and why he had allergic symptoms. Both of these scents could cause skin allergies in certain individuals. What would be the consequences of mixing them? She hadn't read about it in medical books, but without a doubt, Prince Qi was a good example. What about Bai Wushang?

Just as she was pondering, she heard a noise in the courtyard downstairs; it seemed someone was coming!

Murong Wei quickly got up and went outside, only to see Sister Li carrying water upstairs alone. There was only one staircase, so the front yard was out of the question; the back yard was the only option. She decisively went inside, and was about to break out of the window when suddenly, someone behind her covered her mouth with one hand and wrapped the other around her waist, leaping onto the roof beam.

The familiar scent told Murong Wei she didn't need to look to know who it was. She let him cover her mouth and quietly watched Sister Li come in to clean.

"Why do you like to wander around like your son?" Bai Wushang whispered in her ear, his head resting on her shoulder; from a distance, they looked like an intimate couple.

Murong Wei pried his hand away and said calmly, "I haven't even asked yet, what are you doing here?"

"Your son brought you something good, want to see it?" Bai Wushang said with a smile.

"Good things can be found slowly, but you have to choose the right direction first, right?" Murong Wei retorted.

“Can’t you see this place is empty? Prince Qi won’t come back so easily, and besides, asking is pointless,” Bai Wushang said.

“He’ll definitely come back the night after tomorrow for the wedding,” Murong Wei said.

“That’s the night after tomorrow. Come on, let’s go see the treasures with me!” Bai Wushang said, picking her up and trying to leave.

Murong Wei couldn’t struggle, pointed at Sister Li, and glared at him fiercely.

Bai Wushang then remembered that Sister Li was still downstairs, shrugged, and could only wait.

Murong Wei looked at him suspiciously and said quietly, “How did you know I was here?”

“I found you,” Bai Wushang replied.

“Why is the poison on your body so similar to Prince Qi’s?” Murong Wei brought up the past.

“This is my misfortune,” Bai Wushang shook his head helplessly.

“Give me your hand,” Murong Wei said.

“What for?” Bai Wushang asked warily.

“To cut my wrists and kill you!” Murong Wei glared at him.

Bai Wushang chuckled and extended his right hand. Murong Wei gently pressed his pulse, her face serious. His pulse was normal, and not just normal, but the poison in his body couldn't be detected by pulse alone.

She had to dismiss her doubts once again and said calmly, "Have you seen those pale summer violets in the backyard?"