On that particular day, as they retraced their steps, the lantern festival attendees had mostly dispersed. Yan Lin guided the horse, assisting her onto it.
Depart as you arrived.
However, instead of galloping, he now entrusted the horse and sat with her, hoping the journey back to Jiang's mansion would stretch endlessly, reaching the edge of the world, where the sea dried up, and rocks crumbled without conclusion.
In this moment, the young man overflowed with sincerity. The girl he loved nestled in his arms on the horse, and he momentarily forgot everything else. His heart pounded fiercely, fully occupying his thoughts.
Eager for the days ahead, he remained oblivious to the unusual silence of the person before him. The air turned slightly chilly.
Jiang Xuening felt the warmth emanating from the chest behind her but became increasingly perplexed as she gazed upon the familiar path to Jiang's mansion. In her younger days, she would have felt happiness, shyness, excitement, and gratitude for a boy who went through trials for her. Yet, she was no longer that girl.
They arrived at Dejiang Mansion late at night. Yan Lin assisted her off the horse, advising her with a smile, "Get a good night's sleep when you go back."
Mounting the horse again, he noticed her lingering at the door. "Return to your quarters; I'll keep watch."
Looking back at him, Jiang Xuening asked quietly, "Yan Lin, you've always pampered and protected me. Have you ever considered what it would be like if one day I don't have you, and how I would manage?"
Yan Lin was taken aback. Sensing her somber mood, he reassured, "Such worries are baseless. How could you live without me? I'll always be by your side."
Her heart twisted momentarily, and she couldn't bear to look at him any longer. She chuckled softly, "You're right. I'll go back."
Yan Lin nodded, and she disappeared through the open side door of Jiang Mansion.
Sitting on the horse, Yan Lin held the reins, watching her fading figure. Suddenly, confusion surged within him.
In Jiang's mansion, many stayed awake, anticipating her return. The news of an assassin in the capital had spread during the day, causing Jiang Boyou great distress upon learning Jiang Xuening's involvement. Although she was unharmed, her detour with Yan Lin to the Lantern Festival had irked him.
Jiang Boyou planned to reprimand her upon her return, but when he saw her, his displeasure was evident.
In this moment, a wave of sympathy overcame him for the girl. The issue of this assassination is either King Pingnan's rebellion against the party or the Heavenly Religion's rebellious faction, and it's not Ning's fault. It's too much.
Before he could speak, his softened heart prompted him to address his daughter in a gentle tone: "Lately, Beijing has been quite unsettled. I've heard that Jin Yiwei has arrested numerous rebellious individuals. Today, Xie Ju'an is not the only one who was targeted. While you and Yan Lin are managing well, I can't help but worry for him. During this period, please refrain from going out. Wait until things settle down before venturing out again."
Expecting Jiang Xuening to offer a rebuttal, he was surprised when she responded with lowered brows and eyes, saying, "Okay."
For over ten consecutive days, she indeed refrained from going out.
Only two days after the attack, she dispatched someone to Xiejie Hutong, asking Zhou Yinzhi to deliver a calling card to vote for Yan Lin.
Afterward, she made no further inquiries.
Within two days, Yan Lin accompanied his father, Yong Yihou, to inspect Fengtai Daying and Tongzhou Daying, returning on September 21st.
On this same morning, news circulated in the palace that Princess Leyang expressed a desire for a learned companion and beseeched the Emperor to find reliable gentlemen for her serious study. The Emperor then announced a selection process for a companion for the eldest princess.
During court proceedings, the ministers were instructed to submit candidates of similar age with daughters from their families. These candidates would be scrutinized, and the palace would choose from among them.
This directive stirred the ambitions of civil and military officials in the Manchu Dynasty.
Princess Leyang's favor was widely acknowledged. Moreover, those accompanying the Emperor to listen to scriptures and partake in banquets were all noblemen and talented individuals from prominent families. The opportunity for their daughters to connect with potential in-laws and the prestige associated with being selected were incentives for a fierce competition among the elite.
Jiang Xuening was unaware of the arrangements made by other families; she only knew about her own.
After Jiang Boyou returned from the palace, he informed Meng Shi of the matter and said, "I heard that during the Chongyang Festival banquet a while ago, Ning seemed to receive special treatment from Princess Leyang in Qingyuan uncle's mansion, and they were very close. Each family is to propose candidates, and the palace will choose from them. In terms of character and talent, Xuehui is more suitable. She is calm, dignified, and knowledgeable. Ning may be selected, but her stubborn temperament could prove tricky. We can't afford to irritate the eldest princess. What should we do?"
Meng Shi frowned upon hearing this.
She knew that Jiang Boyou favored Ning due to guilt and admiration for her courage. However, the matter of accompanying the eldest princess to read in the palace was of great significance. Where could Jiang Xuening find peace of mind? She remarked, "Ning is impulsive, and in the restrained environment of the palace, she may be unwilling to go."
Jiang Boyou glanced at her, saying, "I actually think Hui would be safer."
Not out of favoritism, but due to Ning's worrisome temperament.
It wasn't about saving face; the concern was that it might lead to trouble.
Nevertheless, such decisions required discussion with the two sisters. Jiang Boyou instructed, "Go and invite the two young ladies."
Feeling uneasy about how things might unfold, Meng Shi sighed, "I'm afraid Ning will start a fight again and won't let it go."
Jiang Xuening had been napping when she was abruptly summoned, a bit annoyed at the interruption but couldn't afford to have an outburst.
After quickly arranging herself, she discovered that Jiang Xuehui had arrived earlier. Jiang Xuehui saluted and took a seat.
Jiang Boyou briefed them on the situation, concluding, "Currently, the focus is on selecting companions for study, but we're uncertain about the curriculum and procedures upon entering the palace. The companions of the dynasty's princes are required to reside in the palace. You both know the location of the imperial palace, so exercise caution and choose a secure path. Ning appears to have favor with the eldest princess. What are your thoughts?"
A moment of silence followed.
Jiang Xuening remained seated, silent.
Jiang Xuehui lowered her gaze, focusing on the embroidered handkerchief in her hand. Recollections of a recent encounter after the Double Ninth Festival banquet at the Duke's mansion crossed her mind. However, she acknowledged her lack of status as a serious daughter of the first wife and couldn't assert herself before Jiang Xuening.
Softly, she remarked, "Ultimately, it's up to the parents to decide."
Meng, however, looked sternly at Jiang Xuening and said, "With only two daughters in the mansion, both being first-generation daughters, the choice is yours. One possesses a calm temperament, and the other pleases the princess. Entering the palace is no easy task; you'll have to read with the princess. We don't seek glory for the mansion; our primary concern is your safe return. Ning is too lively, and although there may be Prince Yan in the palace to look after you, palace rules are strict. The prince not residing in the palace might hinder proper care. Therefore, it seems more fitting for Hui to go."
Jiang Xuening maintained a poker face.
Jiang Boyou, however, kept a watchful eye on her expression. Hearing Meng Shi's words, he felt an inexplicable guilt and sensed the unfairness towards his second daughter. Hastily, he added, "Certainly, Ning is favored by the princess. If you wish to go and read for the princess, please submit your name."
Meng Shi pressed her lips together and remained silent.
Jiang Xuehui wasn't too optimistic. Familiar with Ning's temperament, she knew that whenever there was an opportunity, Ning would always have a stronger claim. With the chance to enter the palace as a companion, ladies from prestigious families would undoubtedly vie for it. How could Sister Ning allow her to fulfill her wish?
Although, this time, she harbored a sliver of hope.
Just a sliver…
Jiang Xuening sat silently, all eyes on her.
Her gaze rested on Jiang Xuehui.
Jiang Boyou and Mrs. Meng waited patiently, not hearing her speak. They assumed she was silently agreeing to yield this opportunity to Jiang Xuehui.
Meng Shi breathed a sigh of relief, saying, "That settles it."
But just as she was about to continue, Jiang Xuening rose from her seat.
The words that were about to escape her lips got caught in her throat.
Meng Shi's eyelids twitched.
Jiang Xuehui shifted her gaze to witness the scene, sighing bitterly in her heart: As expected.
Even Jiang Boyou inwardly exclaimed, "This is going to be troublesome," contemplating how to manage the situation when Ning gets into trouble later.
To everyone's surprise, Jiang Xuening didn't glance at anyone. Instead, she closed her eyes, bowed, and uttered, "Father and mother, forgive me. While the opportunity to enter the palace is rare, your daughter understands her temperament. My elder sister is dignified, virtuous, and knowledgeable, willing to go, with connections in Beijing's aristocratic circles. It would be more fitting for her to enter the palace. This time, I have no objection to letting my elder sister go."
Jiang Boyou was suddenly stunned: "What did you say?"
Meng Shi couldn't help sitting up straight: "You—"
Jiang Xuehui was also taken aback, her eyes flickering with inexplicable emotions: "Sister Ning…"
Jiang Xuening sneered, recalling Wanniang, showing no mercy. She said, "Don't think I'm trying to be selfless this time. I don't want to enter the palace because I can't tolerate its rules. If there's something I desire in the future, I'll seize it!"
Jiang Xuehui was speechless, just staring at her.
Jiang Xuening averted her eyes and addressed Jiang Boyou and Meng Shi directly: "If there's nothing else for father and mother, the daughter will take her leave."
Jiang Boyou and Meng Shi didn't expect things to be so straightforward. Initially, they were caught off guard.
After processing her words, complex emotions stirred within them. They had anticipated Ning causing trouble, yet she skillfully relinquished this significant opportunity. Their initial misjudgments now made them feel somewhat ashamed.
Jiang Boyou hastily said, "It's alright."
Without delay, Jiang Xuening bowed again and left the room.
In the now-empty hall, three individuals remained, each wearing a distinct expression.
Jiang Xuehui gazed at the gradually disappearing figure and smiled slowly, remarking to Meng Shi, "Sister Ning has a tender heart…"
Meng Shi stayed silent.
Jiang Boyou, moved by the turn of events, sighed, "Ning is quite sensible. I'm just not accustomed to it. She has truly matured, understanding how to sympathize with us and make way for her sister."
Fortunately, Jiang Xuening didn't hear these words, or she might have burst into laughter. People might assume she sacrificed a golden opportunity to study in the palace, but in reality, she had no intention of seizing such an opportunity.
As she exited the hall, she kept her pace measured.
Lian'er struggled to keep up, repeatedly asking, "What's wrong with you, miss? That was an excellent chance to enter the palace and study with the eldest princess. Many people in the capital would give anything for such an opportunity. Yet, you just let it go!"
Jiang Xuening scoffed, "I'd be foolish to want it! What comfort is there in the palace? Discipline is enforced in every aspect—whether walking, sitting, or lying down."
Not only were the chosen companions from Minister Xungui's family cautious in their actions, but even the concubines entering the palace to serve the emperor were meticulous and dared not show any negligence.
It wasn't until she entered the palace that she truly comprehended the harshness of life. Fortunately, after being named queen, she could act with a certain degree of presumption without facing objections.
But what about her previous life as a companion for reading?
Xiao Shu, proficient and powerful in everything, dominated others. The eldest princess Leyang, who had a complex relationship with her, would find fault and deny her opportunities whenever possible.
More worrisome was the fact that Mr. Xie Wei was invited for two classes!
In her past life, she had no issues with Xie Wei during this period, and he did not trouble her.
However, in this life, with Mr. Xie Wei involved, could she survive unscathed?
Adding to that, the fearful gaze of Princess Leyang haunted her, and Yan Lin frequently visited the court…
Considering the prospect of entangling herself in such matters again, she felt her head was too stubborn and her life too hard!
When Jiang Boyou and Meng Shi inquired about it, Jiang Xuehui was also present. She didn't want her sister to face difficulties, so she intentionally delayed her response.
The outcome turned out to be somewhat surprising.
They seemed to regard themselves as virtuous.
But it's fine; it's not a bad thing.
As for whether Jiang Xuehui would suffer upon entering the palace for study?
That was none of her concern.
Upon returning home, Jiang Xuening organized their "assets" once again, thinking to herself: Now that the responsibility for the companionship reading has fallen on Jiang Xuehui, even if she decides not to participate later, it doesn't affect me. This way, it completely deviates from the path of my previous life. I didn't provoke Shen Jie either. Now, I just need to wait for a suitable opportunity to clarify things with Yan Lin. After resolving matters with Yongyihou's mansion, regardless of the outcome, I will have done my best. Then, I can return to Tongzhou or simply imitate my past life, traveling the world with my luggage.
The outside scenery is beautiful, so why confine oneself to a corner?
Her thoughts buzzed for a while.
Although the Yongyihou's mansion being implicated in King Pingnan's conspiracy still weighed on her mind, she slept well that night for a change.
The next day, in the afternoon, the palace's list of candidates was released.
When it reached the Jiang Mansion, Jiang Boyou and Mrs. Meng couldn't believe their eyes. They repeatedly questioned the palace messenger, "Eunuch, there must be a mistake in this list, right? The name submitted by our mansion is the eldest daughter's, yet why is the second daughter listed?"
The palace messenger, unaware of the internal details, responded, "That's what was written in the decree. I don't have any additional information. Anyway, they are all girls from your family, so it doesn't make much difference. Once the decree is issued, you can prepare the young lady to enter the palace. Learn the rules and familiarize yourselves with the palace environment. If it's unsuitable, adjustments can be made later. Prepare your daughter accordingly."
Jiang Boyou and Meng Shi exchanged bewildered glances.
Upon hearing the news, Jiang Xuening was still busy organizing her belongings in the house. She intended to exchange some valuable items for banknotes, making it easier for her later travels.
Suddenly, Lian'er burst in, exhilarated, "Miss, it's you! It's you!"
Jiang Xuening's head throbbed upon hearing her voice.
However, Lian'er was quick-witted, and her thoughts often diverged from Jiang Xuening's. If she thought something was good, it probably meant trouble!
Jiang Xuening's eyelids twitched as she stopped the small sketch on the account book and asked, "What's going on?"
Lian'er gasped, "Entering the palace! You're entering the palace to study with the princess!"
Jiang Xuening's scalp tingled, and she dropped the pen, standing up, "What did you say?!"
Lian'er, not understanding the situation yet, thought her mistress was overjoyed and hurriedly explained, "The miss's name is on the list of companions made by the palace! Although the master presented the eldest daughter's name, they somehow omitted it and directly included yours. You'll be studying with the princess soon!"
"…"
Jiang Xuening's head buzzed, and myriad thoughts surged like a tide. Only one remained—
Clearly, no name was presented, yet her name appeared on the palace's list of companions for reading.
The palace was an authentic "Realm of Death"!
Who the hell was plotting against her behind her back?