As the morning sun cast a gentle radiance into the serene sleeping chamber, Xiaofen's eyes slowly fluttered open, the warmth of the light coaxing her consciousness back to reality. Blinking in bewilderment, she surveyed her unfamiliar surroundings, her confusion palpable. Rousing herself fully from her slumber, she instinctively rubbed her eyes, desperately attempting to dispel the remnants of sleep and make sense of her unexpected circumstances. To her utter astonishment, Xiaofen realized that she had somehow ended up in Bingwen's chamber, occupying his bed. Her eyes darted to Bingwen, who sat at a nearby table, engrossed in his writing.
"Good morning, if you've managed to get some rest, resume your post." he greeted casually, almost unperturbed by the peculiar situation. Mortified by her mistake, Xiaofen quickly attempted to regain her composure. However, as she moved to stand up, a damp and chilling sensation clung to the beddings, alarming her senses and leaving her with a growing sense of unease. As realization dawned upon Xiaofen that the damp sensation on the beddings was indeed blood, her face flushed with embarrassment. Hastily, she clutched the sheets and attempted to shield herself. Through an embarrassed expression, she mustered the courage to inquire,
"Can I...?'' But before she could finish her sentence, Bingwen interrupted with a matter-of-fact tone,
"Make it quick. There's a fresh set of clothes behind the screen, and make sure to wash the sheets." The directive was delivered with a hint of impatience, leaving Xiaofen feeling both flustered and grateful for the practical solution.
With the sheets clutched tightly in her grasp, Xiaofen hurriedly made her way to the laundry quarters. Just as she entered, Fang Hua, chattering with her fellow maids, spotted her and couldn't resist making a snide remark. Smirking, she mocked,
"Isn't it the cursed girl?" The words dripped with disdain, causing Xiaofen's heart to sink as she prepared to face yet another round of ridicule and judgment. Despite Xiaofen's attempt to ignore her, she persisted and walked over, forcefully grabbing her wrist. Gazing at her stunning outfit, Fang Hua couldn't help but let out a tinge of jealousy.
"Whoa, looks like the Marquis is treating you well," she commented with a touch of envy in her voice.
"What's this?" Fang Hua snatched the sheets and eagerly unfurled them, a triumphant smile spreading across her face. With a touch of sarcasm, she taunted the others.
"Seems like someone's found a cozy spot to warm his bed." The rest of them stared at Xiaofen with envy, knowing how rare it was for the Marquis to take an interest in anyone, let alone a mere servant.
"Whore! You must have bewitched the Marquis," Fang Hua falsely accused, her words sharp with malice. Xiaofen's gaze turned icy as she stared back, causing Fang Hua to shiver slightly. Braving her fear, Fang Hua forcefully dragged Xiaofen towards the gutter, giving her a hard push.
As she reminisced Bingwen's movements, she attempted to mimic the Tai Chi, she managed to secure her footing and in her swift motion, she unexpectedly grabbed hold of Fang Hua, causing her to stumble and fall into the filthy gutter. The maids couldn't help but giggle at the sight. Fang Hua, seething with disgust and fury, unleashed a stream of curses.
"You witch! Look what you've done," Xiaofen sneered at Fang Hua with a mix of disgust and annoyance, further fueling Fang Hua's anger. However, Xiaofen's voice turned unexpectedly cold and piercing as she warned,
"Don't cross your limits." She picked up the sheets and confidently walked away, leaving the others stupefied in her wake.
In the grand pavilion, three elegant ladies gathered around a table, sipping tea and engaging in lively conversation. Biyu, the gracious hostess, effortlessly charmed her guests with her warm hospitality and impeccable manners. Xinmei, an affable and gregarious woman, radiated with joy as she soaked in the delightful company. Mingzhu, her sophisticated and observant daughter, reveled in the stimulating conversation, yet Biyu couldn't help but notice a glimmer in their eyes that hinted that their visit held a purpose beyond mere chitchat.
"My dear Mingzhu," Xinmei proudly proclaimed,
"is a young woman of impeccable character and upbringing. She is of marriageable age and would be a suitable match for any discerning gentleman."
"What are you suggesting?" Biyu, wearing a knowing smile, playfully took a sip of her tea, pretending to be unaware of Xinmei's intentions.
" Ah, Marquis Bingwen," Xinmei continued, her voice dripping with excitement,
"is not only a sought-after bachelor, but he also shares a deep connection with Mingzhu from their childhood days. They are truly a match made in heaven." Biyu, maintaining her serene composure, smiled and pretended to ponder the situation.
"Indeed, they have reached a suitable age for marriage," she remarked thoughtfully.
"However, we must be cautious not to impose a union that may ultimately lead to unhappiness. Love should bloom naturally and authentically, don't you think?
Just as Xinmei was preparing to voice her opposition, Mingzhu, with a hint of timidity in her voice, softly spoke up,
"I am not obligated to marry the Marquis, but I have my own interests in him." Biyu's smile widened, knowing full well the significance of Mingzhu's words. Despite the Ming family's modest power, Mingzhu held a precious status as the granddaughter of the esteemed Imperial Minister Shenglin. As Biyu contemplated the potential marriage between Mingzhu and Bingwen, she couldn't help but acknowledge the advantageous position it would put the Bing family in. With such a powerful connection, their rise in social ranks would be practically assured. However, Biyu was cautious not to appear desperate for an alliance, so she carefully responded,
"The fate of your future lies in your own hands. It is up to both of you to build a meaningful relationship and determine your own path." Mingzhu's esteemed status made her a highly sought-after potential daughter-in-law, and Biyu was well aware of the coveted position she held in the eyes of other families. As she contemplated how to bring Mingzhu closer to her son, she couldn't help but notice the serendipity of fate seemingly aligning with her desires. Mingzhu, sensing her mother's agreement, couldn't help but smile triumphantly. In the subtle exchange of glances between mother and daughter, Biyu keenly observed the unspoken understanding. However, Xinmei, realizing Biyu's perceptive gaze, swiftly intervened, suggesting,
"Mingzhu, why don't you take this opportunity to explore the Marquis's manor while us older folks catch up?"
"I take my leave." Mingzhu curtised and excused herself.
Bingwen and Lan Ren were investigating the mysterious almost lifeless body in the secret chamber of Tranquility Residence. With a careful examination, Lan Ren remarked,
"Based on his appearance and wounds, it seems he was involved in a battle." Bingwen, touching the man's pulse, furrowed his brow, realizing that reviving him would not be an easy task. Filled with curiosity and uncertainty, Lan Ren pondered aloud, "I wonder how he came to be in this state?" As Bingwen opened his eyes, a sudden rush of memories flooded his mind. The distinct almond-shaped eyes of the man lying before him triggered a realization - could this be the legendary thief? Just then, a guard entered the room, clasping his fist in respect as he spoke,
"Young Master, we found this in the river."
As the guard extended his hand, revealing a sword adorned with a talisman of Calmness and Peace, a ghastly aura emanated from it, evoking an otherworldly presence. Bingwen's eyes narrowed upon recognizing the sword. It was the dreaded kěpà de shǎnguāng, the eerie companion of the infamous legendary thief, Chia-hao.