"What, she ran away?"
You Yue, the second lady, who awaited guests in the flower hall, was pulled into the corridor by her maid to relay the news. When she heard that You Fangyin had escaped the woodshed at this crucial moment, her lovely face darkened.
"Didn't you instruct the guards to keep watch? What are they doing there!"
Seeing her displeasure, the maid dared not speak.
You Yue sneered and remarked, "Yet she's only going to see her pitiful aunt. There are guests at home today, so keep this matter discreet. Inform them not to make a fuss now, to avoid unnecessary gossip. Later, my sister and I will lead the guests to the garden to enjoy the flowers, and then you can directly go to that woman's room, capture her, and treat her accordingly."
The maid replied in a low voice and went to deliver the message.
Meanwhile, guests for the banquet were arriving one after another.
They gathered in the flower hall for conversation.
Many ladies from prestigious families hadn't initially planned to attend, but upon hearing that Yan Lin and Shen Jie were present at the Qingyuan uncle's mansion, they couldn't remain indifferent.
Who in Beijing wasn't aware that Lord Yan Xiaohou was a remarkable individual?
Excelling in both martial arts and literature, his status as the son was established early, and the enthronement ceremony was scheduled for two months later.
It was customary to discuss marriage after the enthronement.
Even if one didn't hold the Yongyi Hou's Mansion in high regard, Yan Lin alone was enough to draw people's attention, not to mention the presence of Linzi King Shen Jie, who had yet to select the right concubine.
As Jiang Xuening entered the flower hall from the outside, a quick survey revealed that the hall was filled with ladies in red scarves, emerald sleeves, and rosy lips. Regardless of status, everyone wore a seemingly polite and decent smile.
Only the smiles of two individuals appeared more genuine.
One was You Shuang, the eldest lady of You House, and the other was You Yue, the second miss of You House.
No wonder.
In her perception, the declining Qingyuan uncle's mansion hosting such a banquet and even challenging Cheng Guogong's mansion would naturally elicit joy on their faces if she were in their shoes.
Upon the arrival of the servant guiding her, he smiled and announced to the hall, "The second miss of Jiang Shilang's residence has arrived."
Initially engrossed in their conversations, the famous ladies in the hall didn't pay much attention to this announcement. Yet, as they instinctively lifted their heads to glance, little did they know that this single glance would stir something unexpected.
The moment Jiang Xuening entered the hall, an unspoken hush spread through the room, and gradually, the entire hall fell into an unexpected silence.
Since her return to Beijing, Jiang Xuening rarely attended such banquets. Most of the girls in Beijing belonged to illustrious families, sharing the same grace as Jiang Xuehui. During the initial two years of her return, Meng kept her away, teaching her the intricate rules of high society. However, after befriending Yan Lin, she grew weary of those cumbersome formalities, perfumes, and piano playing that all ladies engaged in. Instead, she embraced her true self, disinterested in activities that didn't align with her nature.
Furthermore, with Jiang Xuehui's presence, Jiang Xuening, the second daughter, didn't feel the need to compete. Although Jiang Xuehui never aimed to overshadow her, outsiders perceived Jiang Xuening as inferior in every aspect, and she had no inclination to create unnecessary trouble for herself.
Consequently, even though many had heard about her, most hadn't witnessed her appearance or demeanor.
Upon first glance, hearts in the room collectively skipped a beat.
When fate bestows such a person, it appears unjust—
Even without extravagant attire, with modest makeup, Jiang Xuening's natural beauty was striking. Dark, unadorned eyebrows, naturally red lips, and a porcelain complexion akin to pristine snow created an ethereal quality. Yet, her bright, lacquer-like eyes added a touch of liveliness and charm, almost mischievous.
A little enchanting.
It repelled from afar but also enticed daydreams.
Her voluminous black hair was artfully woven into a Chaoyun Jinxiang bun. Though not fully mature, her slender form exhibited graceful postures, with a delicately swaying waist reminiscent of willow branches dancing in the spring breeze—youthful and fresh.
During the brief silence, someone couldn't help but snort, "Why is she here?"
It was only then that those further away began to react.
Some recognized her, exchanging whispers with others. However, whether familiar or unfamiliar, Jiang Xuening casually surveyed the expressions of these so-called "ladies and gentlemen." It was evident that many harbored unfavorable impressions, laced with a hint of envious hostility.
However, this hostility soon transformed into clear disdain.
After all, a country girl who spent her formative years on a farm, even upon returning to the capital, didn't exhibit the regality of a prince in dragon robes. How could she possibly compete with these noble ladies, nurtured in luxury since childhood?
In her previous life, she was overly concerned with such gazes.
In this life, she faced them with a far more composed demeanor. Having experienced queenship, she realized that even if she couldn't surpass the elites of the previous dynasty, she remained the triumphant queen who navigated obstacles to ascend the throne—their differences were apparent.
The atmosphere in the flower hall grew oddly awkward.
Fortunately, the two hosts of the banquet were present.
Upon hearing the servant's report, You Shuang hurriedly approached to welcome Jiang Xuening. Her eyes flickered with a smile as she greeted, "It seems we've only met at Zhang Shangshu's banquet in the past. I haven't had the pleasure of seeing you before. We expected the Second Miss to attend today. Please, come inside."
You Yue scrutinized Jiang Xuening twice. As the host today, she took extra care with her appearance, believing herself to be quite elegant. When she looked at herself in the mirror, she felt exceptionally beautiful, radiant, and enthusiastic—like the bright red flowers in full bloom. Even if she couldn't outshine everyone, she believed she was absolutely dazzling, a radiant pearl that would catch the eye in a crowd.
However, when Jiang Xuening arrived, everything seemed to pale in comparison.
Like a brilliant moon rising in the night sky, eclipsing the pearl.
You Yue's confidence waned. On one hand, she felt her own attractiveness was somewhat overshadowed; on the other hand, the Second Miss was quite audacious. She wondered if Jiang Xuening had seen her sister.
People around discreetly observed, expecting to witness Jiang Xuening's reaction. To their surprise, she remained composed, neither embarrassed nor irritated. She looked back at You Yue with a serene smile and replied nonchalantly, "Of course, my sister and mother went to Cheng Guogong's mansion, and they asked me to apologize on their behalf to You Yue."
You Yue's expression suddenly changed.
Others took a collective gasp. The Second Miss Jiang appeared calm but spoke rather harshly!
Everyone knew about the collision between Qingyuan Bo's mansion and Cheng Guogong's mansion today. Smart families had dispersed, with some choosing one side and some the other. This was common knowledge, but people refrained from explicitly mentioning it. Jiang Xuening's response, however, indicated that the matriarch of the Jiang family, with a higher status, had taken her elder daughter to Duke Cheng's mansion, leaving only her to attend Qingyuan Bo's mansion. This was akin to a public affront to You Yue.
You Yue took a step forward, ready to retaliate.
Standing nearby, You Shuang reacted swiftly. With sharp eyes and nimble hands, she grabbed You Yue's hand and preempted Jiang Xuening's words, saying, "What's the matter? We've all been living in the capital for a long time, and there will be occasions for admiring flowers and the moon. There's time for gatherings. Let's sit down and chat, please."
Only then was Jiang Xuening invited to take a seat.
A lady from another family, who had interacted with Jiang Xuening in the past few days, observed her composed demeanor and began to question her previous impression. Apart from her appearance, why did the Second Miss Jiang, who lacked notoriety, seem more noble today?
Despite knowing that many people were secretly observing her, Jiang Xuening remained indifferent. She hadn't attended the banquet for the festivity. Despising the hypocritical nature of these social events in Beijing, she refrained from speaking after sitting down, only tuning into other people's casual conversations while her thoughts lingered on You Fangyin.
The face of the You Fangyin from her past life and the one she met in this life intertwined in her mind—overlapping, separating, and causing a disturbance.
You Yue, initially irked, found herself silent after Jiang Xuening sat down. As the girls around her complimented her for hosting Yan Lin and Shen Jie, the previous altercation gradually faded from memory. Now engaged in a discussion with others about recent events in Beijing, she moved past the earlier conflict.
As You Yue narrated the story of the Criminal Department challenging Shizhong and Jin Yiwei, Jiang Xuening's heart trembled upon hearing these words. Her hands, momentarily pausing over a piece of osmanthus cake, abruptly stopped as she raised her eyes to gaze at You Yue.
You Yue sneered contemptuously, continuing her narrative. According to her, Jin Yiwei, established by the former emperor, was heavily relied upon and entrusted with many prison matters. Zhou Qianhu, a member of the former Jin Yiwei, had arrested two scholars, accusing them of blindly writing books and plotting against the imperial court. However, the next day, someone provided the Holy Scriptures, claiming that Jin Yiwei had acted with the approval of the Criminal Division, and Zhou Qianhu was to be impeached. You Yue ridiculed the seventh-rank official, Zhang Zhe, for daring to confront Jin Yiwei and believing he had a long life.
Zhou Qianhu had some connections with Qingyuan Bofu, and You Yue found Zhang Zhe impolite in various matters, leading to her disdain.
Others joined in, expressing their disapproval of Zhang Zhe's audacity, with one remarking, "This little official, as small as a sesame seed, dares to argue with Jin Yiwei. He's too ignorant!"
Jiang Xuening, having loosened her grip on the osmanthus cake, tossed it back onto the plate. For the first time, she interjected, asking, "It's all called 'not knowing what's good.' According to everyone's opinion, what does 'knowing the good and the bad' mean?"
There was a momentary freeze in the room. Having engaged in conversation for a while, people almost forgot Jiang Xuening's presence. Her sudden interjection surprised those present.
Observing the Second Miss Jiang, they were taken aback.
Before You Yue's provocation, Jiang Xuening had maintained a composed expression, seemingly indifferent to the situation. However, at this moment, a smile played on her lips, carrying a slight chill. Her beautiful eyes looked directly at You Yue, exuding a mysterious allure with a tinge of ironic sharpness.
You Shuang was stunned, and even You Yue, who had planned to taunt Jiang Xuening, felt the atmosphere shift with her words. She decided to go ahead with a more confrontational approach, saying, "Your words sound like you want to complain about this Zhang, but why haven't I heard that Jiang Shilang is very capable? Even a seventh-rank official who doesn't know is going to be supported?"
These words subtly implied that Jiang Boyou supported Zhang Zhe.
Jiang Xuening, not known for her temper, was further provoked by You Yue's words, tabooing one topic after another.
The last trace of a smile vanished from Jiang Xuening's face. Wiping her hands with a brocade handkerchief handed over by Tang'er, she spoke deliberately, "Imperial court regulations stipulate that, in addition to the driving card, Jin Yiwei must have the approval of the Criminal Department to make arrests. Zhou Qianhu acted boldly, disregarding the laws and regulations of the court. It's only fitting for him to be scrutinized by Mr. Zhang! Why should Ms. You complain on his behalf? Does she intend to ignore the court's laws and regulations and turn them upside down?"
The expressions of those present changed. While Jin Yiwei's increasingly audacious behavior had become somewhat accepted, this was the first time someone had brought up the law in such a public setting. People hesitated to intervene.
Even You Yue felt a sense of fear upon realizing the gravity of the situation.
However, not liking Jiang Xuening from the beginning, and confronted without cause, You Yue couldn't afford to back down now. Through gritted teeth, she replied, "Let's wait and see what happens to this 'Master Zhang' when he turns around."
Jiang Xuening smiled slowly, "I'm also waiting to see what happens to Zhou Qianhu."
Although she smiled, there was no warmth in her eyes. She looked directly at You Yue, hostility evident in her gaze.
She didn't initiate harm to anyone in her previous life, but having experienced being a pawn, certain elements in her nature were different from the typical young ladies in the capital.
Her gaze carried a hint of blood.
This gaze perplexed those present. You Yue, in particular, trembled upon seeing it and attempted to speak, but no words escaped her lips.
Jiang Xuening understood the significance of the name "Zhang Zhe" in her own context. This person was the only one who had caused her shame in her previous life. Greedy for life and afraid of death, she had dedicated her life's courage to him in the end.
How could she allow others to insult him?
Regardless of whether it was the little You Yue sitting there or even Xie Wei, Jiang Xuening would have dared to speak up!