"After spending two days learning palace etiquette, I'm exhausted just thinking about it. I've been fasting all day, so I haven't had the chance to explore the palace yet. Have any of you had the opportunity?" Shen Zhiyi's face radiated warmth, and suddenly a thought crossed her mind. She turned to look at the others nearby and asked, "How about all of you?"
While all individuals had been chosen to enter the palace, their initial lack of interaction with Princess Leyang left them perplexed by her question.
Only Xiao Shu, who was acquainted with Shen Zhiyi, responded with a smile, "None of them."
Utilizing "they" instead of "us."
The subtle nuances in her words conveyed her familiarity with the palace, setting her apart from the rest and emphasizing that she did not associate herself with the others.
Shen Zhiyi clapped her hands and declared, "Since you've almost completed your etiquette training, tomorrow Mr. Xie will assess your knowledge. I wonder how many will pass. Since you're here in the palace, it shouldn't be in vain. Today, this princess will take you for a stroll around the imperial garden."
Suddenly, everyone's eyes widened in surprise.
Shen Zhiyi grabbed Jiang Xuening with one hand and Xiao Shu with the other, addressing Su Shangyi directly, "Auntie, Shu and I will take them out for a walk. Let's skip the learning today!"
Su Shangyi gazed at the princess who had grown under her care. She seldom compromised, but for once, she acquiesced, "You've nearly completed your lessons. Your Highness can take them for a stroll, but don't stay out too late. Tomorrow, you all have an academic test."
Shen Zhiyi agreed cheerfully, "I understand, I understand!"
With that, she happily led the group out and towards the imperial garden.
Situated in the northwest direction of Yang Zhizhai, one could reach the Imperial Garden by heading north along the palace walls, making a westward turn, and navigating a few corners.
The palace was exceptionally quiet in the afternoon.
Even though late autumn had arrived, withered flowers and trees were almost the norm in the north. The palace gardeners dared not be careless; they diligently planted seasonal roses and potted chrysanthemums. Some were pruned to maintain their shape, while others were placed strategically, giving the garden a hint of the charm seen in Jiangnan.
Particularly noteworthy was the Samuume tree planted next to the palace wall in the east corner of the imperial garden. Although not yet in bloom, only the branches visible, the tree's form already exuded a delicate and beautiful quality.
Fan Yilan admired it and couldn't help but comment, "It's often said that trees are generally not planted in the palace to prevent water leakage. Unexpectedly, there's a plum tree."
Shen Zhiyi looked at it and smiled, saying, "This is an exception in the palace. Master Yuanji and Mr. Xie planted it three years ago after losing a bet, and it has stirred quite a bit of controversy since then."
The tree planted within the palace, embedded in the wall, bore the character "sleepy."
An unfortunate choice.
Even though Monk Yuanji was responsible for planting the tree, he faced considerable opposition. Xie Wei, who won the bet, delightedly observed the ensuing drama.
This master of the cabinet was the first monk to hold an official position in this dynasty.
Jiang Xuening was profoundly impressed by him.
In her previous life, seeing this individual did not give off the aura of a monk at all. He was burly, with upside-down triangular eyes, lacking the compassion and tranquility associated with the Buddhist school. His demeanor, even when smiling, exuded a hint of malevolence, imparting a sense of success.
Outsiders claimed that he engaged in Taoist discussions with Xie Wei and had a strong relationship with him.
However, based on clues from her past life, Jiang Xuening speculated that the two were likely at odds, secretly wary and ready to confront each other. When she committed suicide, Monk Yuanji was still on the run, and it remains unknown whether he met his end at the hands of Xie Wei.
When Shen Zhiyi suddenly mentioned the cabinet, Jiang Xuening followed everyone's gaze to the plum tree in the corner, contemplating the fate of this great monk from her previous life. As her thoughts unfolded, a group of people emerged in the distance along the palace wall.
Upon closer inspection, the person at the forefront wore a python robe.
Who else could it be but Prince Linzi, Shen Jie?
A few eunuchs trailed behind, appearing to be coming from the direction of the harem and traversing the imperial garden on their way out of the palace.
As soon as Shen Zhiyi spotted him, her eyes brightened, and she waved to him from a distance, calling out, "Brother Wang, Brother Wang!"
Initially, Shen Jie had just gone to the Empress Dowager's palace to request an audience, intending to leave the palace. Upon hearing the familiar voice, he raised his head and saw Shen Zhiyi. A faint smile graced his refined face, and he inquired, "Zhiyi, why are you here?"
Shen Zhiyi gestured toward the people behind her and explained, "I'm taking my companions to visit the Imperial Garden."
Shen Jie followed her gesture.
Sure enough, it was a group of young women.
Leading the pack was Xiao Shu, the eldest daughter of Duke Cheng's mansion, whom Shen Jie had encountered several times. However, the figure not far from Xiao Shu…
Having shed the masculine attire he once wore, he now adorned a light purple dress. Standing among the group, he appeared delicate and slender, with fair skin, a graceful neck, and rosy lips. The intentionally thick eyebrows were no more, revealing an indescribable beauty in the eyes.
Shen Jie felt a jolt of surprise just by looking at him.
At this moment, he mused that had it not been for Yan Lin's warning, alerting him that the second girl was the one he was to protect and marry, he might have struggled to curb the inappropriate thoughts that typically arose when men encountered such beauty.
Upon seeing him, Xiao Shu was about to approach and offer a greeting.
After all, they had met before.
However, when she looked up, she noticed that Shen Jie's gaze effortlessly bypassed her and landed on Jiang Xuening beside her. He lingered for a while, causing a flutter in her heart.
If she wanted to bow again, she had already missed the opportune moment.
Shen Zhiyi remained oblivious to the unfolding situation as she playfully tugged at Shen Jie's sleeve, showing off her companions. "How about it? The posture of my companions is no less impressive than when you and your brother were princes, right?"
Shen Jie chuckled, "Yes, yes. Who possesses the grace of our Eldest Princess Leyang?"
Shen Zhiyi snorted, "Back then, you only had one or two companions, while I have twelve here—well, what about this?"
While speaking, she had been toying with Shen Jie's wide sleeves. Inadvertently flipping the cuffs, she hooked her fingers, revealing a light blue embroidered handkerchief. Shen Jie paused, reaching out to retrieve it. "Give it to me."
However, Shen Zhiyi widened her eyes suddenly, dodging to avoid him. Upon closer inspection, the light blue face of the embroidered handkerchief featured a Cymbidium and a small red **** flower in one corner, prompting her to click her tongue twice and narrow her eyes.
"Brother Wang, this doesn't look like something used by you stinky men. Whose girl is this?" Shen Zhiyi teased.
Shen Jie frowned, blushing slightly, hastily stepped forward, pulled back the embroidered handkerchief, and stuffed it back into his sleeve carelessly. "You're still so young; what nonsense are you talking about?"
Sticking out her tongue, Shen Zhiyi remarked, "I'm going to be married in my twenties. It seems Brother Wang doesn't have a concubine at twenty-three or four. I'm afraid Brother Wang is troubled. Just tell me; if you like it, you can't get rid of it. To save face, I'll help you talk to Brother Huang."
Shen Jie was thin-skinned, making it even more embarrassing to be teased by his sister. After tucking away the embroidered handkerchief, he put on a serious expression. "Don't go. It was just discovered today that the silk boat capsizing on the Cao River was orchestrated by collusion between officials and merchants to drive up silk prices. A clash with the Jin Yiwei erupted, and the Criminal Department almost threw him into prison. Even Mr. Xie and the elders couldn't dissuade him. Bothering Brother Huang over such a trivial matter might not be the wisest move. Spare Brother Wang the embarrassment."
Shen Zhiyi rolled her eyes, showing that she wouldn't genuinely bring up the embroidered handkerchief and create trouble for Shen Lang. Still, observing Brother Wang's nervous demeanor, she found it somewhat amusing, saying, "Alright, I'll listen to Brother Wang. Anyway, I don't understand court matters; it goes in one ear and out the other. I won't even know if the emperor coaxes me."
Shen Jie was frustrated. Witnessing many accompanying ladies from prominent families watching, he felt even more embarrassed. Hastily declaring, "I'm leaving the palace first," he hurriedly departed in what appeared to be a fleeing posture.
Seeing this, Shen Zhiyi could barely contain her laughter.
However, the reactions of the others varied.
While others might not have recognized the embroidered handkerchief, Xiao Shu, who stood close, had seen the red flower embroidered on its corner. She tightened her grip on the delicate incense fan handle.
She shifted her gaze toward Jiang Xuening.
This time, her eyes conveyed a different meaning than any previous glance.
Meanwhile, Jiang Xuening was engrossed in thoughts about Jiang Xuehui. She considered this embroidered handkerchief as a "token" between them, yet she had an opportunity to intervene in her previous life. If she refrains from interference this time, what fate awaits the two of them?
While reflecting on Shen Jie's expression just now, it seemed that he was genuinely concerned about the matter.
However, this thought flashed briefly in her mind before redirecting her attention to the "Caohe silk boat" incident mentioned by Shen Jie. It appeared that the silk boat capsized due to someone's premeditated plan. This revelation explained why You Fangyin in her past life had spent all her money to buy raw silk just before the accident, anticipating a rise in prices: perhaps she had somehow received advance knowledge.
Regarding this world…
The lifeless face of You Fangyin flickered in her thoughts once more.
Jiang Xuening let out a soft sigh from the depths of her heart. She shook her head slightly, oblivious to the scrutinizing gaze of Xiao Shu. Instead, she directed her attention to Yao Xi, standing a little apart.
Miss Xi from the Ministry of Officials had worn a somber expression for two consecutive days. Even when Fang Miao and others shared jokes that had everyone in stitches, she remained seated, devoid of any signs of amusement.
When Jiang Xuening cast a glance her way, Yao Xi's complexion appeared even more dismal.
Her hands were folded in front of her, clutching an embroidered handkerchief. The fingers, though adorned with impatiens juice, displayed a certain tension. The nails, delicately dyed pink, looked sharp as they tugged at the silk, leaving faint marks.
Unconsciously, Jiang Xuening's brows furrowed.
Everything seemed fine during their stroll in the imperial garden, but upon bidding farewell to the Eldest Princess and returning to Yang Zhizhai, Yao Xi threw herself onto the couch in her room, giving way to tears.
It was a pitiable sight.
Upon their return, the expressions of the company members were off. They exchanged uncertain glances at each other.
Given their shared living arrangement, ignoring her plight didn't feel right. However, disturbing her while she cried wasn't an easy choice either.
Thus, they opted to prepare tea in the Liushui Pavilion and set out dried fruits and candied treats on the table. As the sobs gradually subsided in the room, Fang Miao, known for lifting spirits, and the composed Chen Shuyi approached to console her and encouraged her to join them.
Yao Xi's almond-shaped eyes were already red from crying, her face carrying the remnants of smeared makeup. A gloomy cloud lingered between her brows, as if laden with numerous grievances.
When prompted to share, she spoke, "I overheard Linzi Wang discussing the affairs of the Criminal Department in the imperial garden, and that's why I cried."
Confusion filled some faces. "The Criminal Department? Is it related to marriage?" inquired someone who didn't comprehend the matter.
Chen Shuyi, having some knowledge, remarked, "Is the marriage arrangement settled?"
Yao Xi almost choked up again, expressing, "It's halfway settled. But how can someone with a seventh-rank position in the Criminal Department be worthy of me? He didn't pass the imperial examination; he was merely a common official before entering the court. Moreover, there's a crude widowed mother at home, aged and unsightly. Initially, my father reasoned that officials in the Criminal Department may not have high ranks, but he is a close minister to the emperor. People look to the future. That's why I was convinced and agreed to this marriage. But now? The emperor is on the verge of throwing him into prison! I heard this person has a peculiar temperament, especially when dealing with cases in the Yamen; he's inclined towards the deceased. It's certainly not easy to get along with such a person. Now, he has even offended Jin Yiwei, given their current influence. What future is there for such a man? If I marry him, I'll have to serve his mother, endure his odd temper, and potentially end up in jail with him! Why…"
Only then did everyone comprehend that they were referring to Zhang Zhe, the senior criminal officer who recently stirred up trouble in the court.
Surprisingly, Yao Xi was proposed marriage with him.
For a moment, everyone was at a loss for words.
Xiao Shu furrowed her brow and remarked, "But we are discussing marriage affairs."
Jiang Xuening, seated on the side, listened to Yao Xi's lament, but her eyes were fixed on the large fish tank in front of the ancient shelf. Watching the goldfish gracefully swim under the lotus leaves, she lowered her gaze, lost in her thoughts.
Yao Xi gritted her teeth, and her discontent was palpable. In the dim light of the room, illuminated by flickering candles, she appeared somewhat gloomy and ominous as she spoke, "It's because we are discussing it that I'm not reconciled! But now that marriage gifts have been exchanged, going back on my word would label me a hypocritical devil. I'm neither embarrassed nor willing to marry. Zhang Zhe and I have already discussed the matter. He had two previous engagements, but one privately withdrew from the marriage for life, and the other passed away before reaching the wedding. This time, I finally secured a match under the Yao Mansion's lintel. I can't willingly withdraw from the marriage. My father is a first-rank official in the dynasty; how can he marry the daughter of a prestigious family to such a person?"
Jiang Xuening couldn't help but almost sneer. Zhang Zhe dares to aspire to the prestige of your Yao Mansion? She truly thinks highly of herself!
Upon hearing "Zhang Zhe," You Yue instinctively glanced at Yao Xi. She delicately covered her lips with her hand, smiled gently, and said to Yao Xi, "Why trouble yourself with such trivial matters? Sister Yue, you're dwelling on it too intensely. There are countless paths and methods in the world, so why must the Zhang family withdraw? What's the issue if your family takes the initiative? As long as you find a plausible reason, no one can say anything."
All eyes focused on her.
Surprised, Yao Xi raised her head to look at You Yue. Recognizing her as someone from Qingyuan uncle's mansion, Yao Xi frowned momentarily. She typically looked down on You Yue, but now, seeing her propose a solution, Yao Xi felt a hint of surprise and asked, "A reason?"
The fortunes of the declining Qingyuan uncle's mansion made You Yue more anxious than anyone. At this moment, she had even forgotten the previous quarrel with Jiang Xuening, and Jiang Xuening's father, Jiang Boyou, merely a servant when he would die. Why should she fear Jiang Xuening?
So she laughed.
Speaking unhurriedly, she said, "If what Sister Yao mentioned is true – that his marriage proposal failed twice – then it's evident he's fated to be wifeless. The second engagement ended before adulthood. What's it called? Isn't this a case of a hard life that prevents him from having a wife?"
Yao Xi was momentarily taken aback and murmured, "But his fiancée had been frail and sickly since childhood, succumbing to illness due to the cold at that time…"
You Yue sneered, "Why is Sister Yao so resolute? Regardless, she's already deceased. If you want to retract the proposal, simply state that Zhang Zhe's future wife is destined as a lone star of Tiansha, which led to her demise. Who would perish like this? Hence, who dares to claim that your Yao Mansion is faring poorly? Moreover, given the current circumstances, even if your father values his talent and deems him worthy, continuous disparagement may eventually sway his decision. Lord Yao consistently asserts his righteousness in court, and even His Majesty holds him in some regard. If this undeserving person goes against Lord Yao, won't he face consequences?"
Indeed.
Zhang Zhe gained his position through exceptional performance in judgment and prison matters without achieving success in the imperial examinations. Progression above his current rank in both government and opposition remains challenging. If she can craft a plausible reason to persuade her father, considering his love for her, why can't this marriage be annulled?
Yao Xi clutched the brocade handkerchief, her eyes flickering.
Jiang Xuening discreetly observed Yao Xi and then You Yue. After You Yue decisively made up her mind, she glanced at Jiang Xuening in defiance, quietly clenching her hands.
She recalled the first time she encountered Zhang Zhe at the Summer Resort.
Leading the court ladies to appreciate the lotus in the lake, they were caught off guard by an unexpected July downpour in the afternoon. Forced to seek refuge in the nearby cool pavilion, they found a solitary figure already seated inside, with a little servant standing by, as if awaiting someone.
The man, donned in a third-rank civil servant's official robe, sat on a stone bench next to a round table in the pavilion. One hand rested on the table, while the other hung down on his right knee as he quietly observed the heavy rain outside.
A pot of tea steamed on the table, filling the air with its fragrance.
The rain outside the pavilion created a cacophony.
This secluded corner of the pavilion seemed to be forgotten by the world, exuding an unexpected sense of peace and tranquility.
Jiang Xuening hesitated for a moment before entering.
Cloaked in a palace dress adorned with phoenix motifs on the skirt and clusters of peonies, she took her steps forward.
The little servant noticed her first and quickly bowed in salute, saying, "I pay my respects to Your Highness."
The man noticed her presence, promptly stood up, lowered his head, and respectfully saluted, saying, "Minister Zhang Zhe pays homage to the empress."
Zhang Zhe.
At the mention of this name, her eyebrows arched. Zhou Yinzhi had been serving her for a while, and with Jin Yiwei vying for influence against the Sanju Department, Zhang Zhe, the new servant in the Ministry of Punishment, had consistently opposed Zhou Yinzhi. They had clashed uncontrollably, overturned a case in the Zhenfu Division, and stirred quite a commotion.
Consequently, she hadn't met this person but had heard plenty about him.
Her eyes shifted, scrutinizing him, and she said with a half-smile, "Mr. Zhang, there's no need for excessive formality."
She intended to exchange a few words with him.
However, to her surprise, he maintained an expressionless face and, with a flat tone, said, "Zhang Zhe is a humble servant and dares not to disturb the empress's residence."
He then retreated from the pavilion, positioning himself at the bottom of the steps outside. Despite the heavy rain, he became drenched the moment he stepped outside.
The little servant was startled.
Zhang Zhe had been waiting in the pavilion with eunuchs by his side because Shen Jie had planned to summon him, but he hadn't arrived yet. The little servant didn't want an imperial officer to get soaked, so he grabbed an umbrella nearby, opened it, and went outside to shield Zhang Zhe from the rain.
Unexpectedly, Jiang Xuening sneered and said, "Give it to me."
As a former empress, who wouldn't be catered to and pampered by those around her?
This man, however, avoided her like a snake and scorpion.
Moreover, bearing the grievances and conflicts from the previous dynasty, how could she make things easier for him?
So, she took the umbrella from the little eunuch, strolled leisurely to the side of the pavilion. Being inside the pavilion, she was higher than the steps, making her still higher than Zhang Zhe. However, she didn't hand him the umbrella.
Instead, she played with the umbrella's handle, observing raindrops falling over his cold and stern profile.
Zhang Zhe's face remained devoid of a smile. His lips were extremely thin, and his eyelids were similarly thin. When he raised his eyes slightly to meet hers, his gaze was like a thin blade, capable of leaving traces deep within her heart.
Jiang Xuening smiled, saying, "Why does Lord Zhang hide upon seeing the empress? Are you afraid that the empress will devour you?"
Zhang Zhe pursed his lips, maintaining silence.
Jiang Xuening felt increasingly irked. "People say that Mr. Zhang was highly capable in the previous court. Even the commander of Jin Yiwei has to endure beneath your hands. I've known about you for a long time, but I never realized it until today when I saw…"
Her voice was sweet, but there was a trace of irony discernible to anyone.
The sound of rain filled the air.
Zhang Zhe looked at her, then looked away, still saying nothing. He turned to leave, attempting to take a step but found himself unable to move.
Turning back, he saw—
Because he had been standing on the steps, a corner of his official robe rested on the higher steps, soaked by the rain. At this moment, it was being stepped on by a cloud pattern embroidered with silver thread.
Jiang Xuening deliberately played tricks, unknowingly stepping on it, and questioned him, "Master Zhang, why haven't you left?"
Zhang Zhe gazed at her intently for a moment, then bent down in the rain. He even grabbed the corner of the official robe and tore it forcefully.
"Hiss!"
The sound of tearing silk was harsh amidst the rain's din.
He directly tore off the portion Jiang Xuening had stepped on, then stood up and said to her, neither humble nor overbearing, "I dare not trouble my lady to adjust her shoes. However, I have a message for my lady. One must understand that people are often enticed by their own desires and seek trouble with dangerous creatures. What they don't realize is that a tiger remains a tiger due to its fierce nature and won't change because of an incident. If you provoke a tiger today, you may become its prey in the future. Madam, please act judiciously."
After delivering his message, Zhang Zhe turned around and departed.
Jiang Xuening, infuriated, threw the umbrella held in her hand. The open umbrella twirled twice in the rain before being loudly beaten by the downpour.
The little servant in the pavilion was frightened, his face turning pale.
Back then, she wondered how someone could be so oblivious to right and wrong.
It wasn't until later that she realized Zhang Zhe was indeed a person who lacked discernment.
His temperament was obstinate and unyielding; he remained unchanged even if scolded.
Although she initially thought little of what she said that day, these words would resurface in her memory during countless sleepless nights afterward. Surrounded by people who either desired her, were interested in her, or were under her influence, none of them would ever speak such words to her…
How could she have known she was courting danger?
Everyone harbors their own ambitions.
In her previous life, she merely aspired to become empress, unwilling to heed honest advice. She knew it was wrong, but she persisted until the end.
Little did she expect to grow weary in the end.
Since being reborn, she hadn't encountered Zhang Zhe, but she had met his "fiancée" first…
The night was dim, and candle shadows flickered.
Upon You Yue's triumphant revelation, a smile graced her face.
Yao Xi slowly clenched her fingers, her countenance cloaked in an ominous frost, as if a decision loomed.
Suddenly, Jiang Xuening thought: To lead a virtuous life in this world requires immense effort. It involves enduring, yielding, restraining, humbling oneself, and avoiding conflicts with others. It is certainly less pleasant than being wicked. Despite the eventual repercussions of wrongdoing, based on her past life experience, the moments of wickedness were extremely delightful, even liberating…
"Miss You Er."
Jiang Xuening rose, seemingly oblivious to their scheming against Zhang Zhe earlier. She walked to the fish tank she had been fixated on, where a few goldfish leisurely swam beneath the lotus leaves.
"May I have a word with you?"
Wearing a serene smile, she didn't appear to betray any unease.
You Yue speculated that she might be somewhat perturbed by the recent idea. Nevertheless, being in the palace with numerous onlookers, she likely wasn't afraid of any consequences but relished the opportunity to witness Jiang Xuening's discomposure up close.
So, she laughed and approached her.
A brief silence enveloped the room, and all eyes were on the two.
As You Yue drew near, she said, "If you have something to say, go ahead."
However, she never anticipated that, upon reaching the large fish tank housing goldfish, Jiang Xuening, who had been standing nearby, would abruptly extend her hand, press You Yue's head down, and thrust her into the white porcelain fish tank!
You Yue let out a startled scream.
Caught off guard by Jiang Xuening's sudden strike, she struggled with all her might but couldn't break free.
In an instant, her entire head was submerged in the water!
The room fell into a stunned silence before erupting into exclamations.
Candied fruits Zhou Baoying had just brought were scattered on the table, and Fang Miao covered her mouth in shock.
Even Xiao Shu's complexion shifted as she abruptly stood up!
At this moment, Jiang Xuening showed no traces of the half-hearted kindness she had displayed earlier.
Devoid of any smile, she exuded hostility and pushed You Yue into the water without expression. Despite You Yue's struggles, she didn't budge.
Splashes of water stained her skirt, but she paid it no mind.
It wasn't until everyone, in a panic, prepared to rush up to intervene that she coldly lifted the now-choked and powerless You Yue and threw her onto the ground.
You Yue, still in shock, had a pale complexion.
Trembling, she extended a shaky hand, pointing at Jiang Xuening, "You, you, you—"
Jiang Xuening lowered her gaze, wiped her hands with a brocade handkerchief, and said, "What about me?"
All eyes were fixed on her.
Yet, she simply smiled nonchalantly, gazing down condescendingly at the breathless You Yue. She remarked, "I bullied you. Should I report myself? However, I can be a princess, and my father's household is affluent. What do you have?"
Not to mention Yan Lin, who was now widely recognized.
You Yue couldn't believe what had just transpired, and, more importantly, she couldn't believe Jiang Xuening would arrogantly utter such words.
She wanted to retort.
But under Jiang Xuening's hostile gaze, she trembled all over.
Only then did Jiang Xuening calmly shift her gaze to Yao Xi, who stood aside, also in shock. A faint brilliance sparkled in her deep eyes, and her tone, peaceful and friendly, addressed Yao Xi: "Young maidens who are yet to be wed ought not to instigate troubles, tarnishing their reputations and ruining their lifelong prospects. If such malice persists, who will dare marry them? Miss Yao, what are your thoughts?"
It was only then that Yao Xi snapped out of her stupor, realizing she had succumbed to an outburst due to Zhang Zhe's incident.
In a moment of panic, she felt both flustered and resentful.
Yet, she dared not meet Jiang Xuening's gaze directly, merely avoiding it.
Jiang Xuening thought of her audacity in using such malicious tricks and had no intention of appeasing anyone. She sneered, folded the brocade handkerchief leisurely, placed it down, and casually told everyone, "Continue your conversation. I'm a bit tired; I'll retire for the night."