The moonlight slanted clear and cold outside the house. Di Nian leaned against a tree trunk, idly toying with the sword in his hand, occasionally glancing at Shen Zhili but saying nothing. Only when Ying Gua emerged from the house did he straighten up and say, "Your Highness."
Ying Gua swept a glance over Shen Zhili, then looked at Di Nian. As he walked outward, he asked, "How did you happen to encounter this incident and rescue her?"
Di Nian followed him and snorted lightly, "Your Highness, think carefully—how could this be mere coincidence? I hadn't gone far from the palace when I met Cao Jing, the Upright Speaker of the Left from the Chancellery. It was Cao Jing who said Minister Meng might be in trouble, so I turned back toward the Female Officials' Dormitory to check—"
Ying Gua's steps faltered, and he frowned, interrupting, "Where is Cao Jing now?"
Di Nian handed the long sword back to him, "I didn't have time to ask more earlier, but I felt this matter was far from simple, so I had the Imperial City Guard detain Cao Jing."
Ying Gua's eyebrows shot up in surprise, "You have quite the nerve, to casually order the Imperial City Guard to detain a key official from the Chancellery!"
Di Nian lowered his head, "Your Highness didn't see Minister Meng's condition at the time. I truly couldn't suppress my anger. I thought that since Cao Jing knew about it, he must be involved, so I detained him first, intending to report to Your Highness before questioning him in detail."
Ying Gua gripped the sword, saying coldly, "Since you could detain Cao Jing, why didn't you detain any of the assailants?"
Di Nian kicked a stone on the ground in frustration, "By the time I arrived, those people hadn't succeeded yet. When they saw someone coming, they scattered like birds and beasts, their movements incredibly swift—clearly premeditated. At the time, I saw Minister Meng unconscious on the ground and panicked. I only hurried with Cao Jing to find someone to bring Minister Meng here and didn't have time to chase after them."
A few servants from the Shen residence passed by, all keeping their heads down and not daring to look around.
Ying Gua suppressed his anger and didn't speak again until they had passed the front hall, "You've caused trouble for the Grand Tutor's residence tonight—the Grand Tutor has rarely involved himself in politics in recent years. He holds the title of Director of the Imperial Secretariat and is waiting to retire. By bringing Meng Tinghui to the Shen residence, you'll make court officials think Meng Tinghui is closely associated with you and the Shen family. And what will the Grand Tutor look like in the eyes of the old Eastern Faction members?"
Di Nian looked up at the night sky and muttered, "I'm just a military man; I don't understand these convoluted court matters. But even I know that the Crown Prince favors Minister Meng in his heart, otherwise those Eastern Faction members wouldn't have caused such a commotion."
Ying Gua stopped at the entrance of the Shen residence, his voice growing colder, "I have never favored her." Then he turned his head and warned, "It hasn't been determined yet who planned this. You must not recklessly claim it was the Eastern Faction."
Di Nian waved his hand, sending someone to bring their horses, then continued, "Does this need investigation? If Prime Minister Gu didn't hold such overwhelming power now, how would those Eastern Faction court officials dare to act so brazenly..." His words suddenly trailed off, his expression turning awkward as his eyes flickered. He whispered toward the back, "You... why have you come out too?"
A few steps inside the threshold, Shen Zhili stood straight, staring fixedly at the two of them.
As soon as Di Nian finished speaking, he immediately averted his gaze, looking distractedly into the distance.
Shen Zhili lifted her skirt and slowly walked to their side, saying softly, "Your Highness, Prime Minister Gu would never order anyone to do such despicable things."She paid no attention to Di Nian, but his words made him flush with embarrassment. He couldn't help glancing at her again and quickly said, "That's not what I meant earlier."
Shen Zhili slowly lowered her head. "Your Highness, Minister Gu would never be disloyal to you, and you surely understand why... yet why still..." Her voice caught, unable to continue.
Ying Gua flipped his palm, hung his sword at his waist, and without answering Shen Zhili, saw the Shen residence servant bringing his horse. He stepped forward, leaped onto the saddle, grasped the reins, flicked the whip, and turned the horse halfway before looking down at her. "I am not a fool either. Such reminders are unnecessary from you."
Shen Zhili kept her eyes lowered, her hands clasped before her trembling slightly. "Your Highness is wise."
Ying Gua glanced at Di Nian, noticing his somewhat flustered gaze fixed on Shen Zhili. He curled his lips slightly but ultimately said nothing more. Raising his arm, he gave the horse a sharp whip and galloped away.
·
When the Imperial City Guard officials brought Cao Jing into the hall, the night was already half gone. A faint dawn light edged the horizon, and the biting cold instantly jolted him awake.
"Your Highness, we've brought him," the official reported softly with bowed head before withdrawing and bolting the door behind him.
The room was dim. Cao Jing could only make out a figure standing with hands clasped behind his back. Without time to discern further, he hastily lifted his robes, stepped forward, and knelt, prostrating himself. "Your Highness, please forgive my offense."
Ying Gua unbuckled his sword and placed it on a nearby table. The scabbard clinked sharply against the stone, making Cao Jing tremble again. He buried his head, not daring to speak.
"No one has yet accused you of any crime. What offense is there to forgive?" Ying Gua's voice was neither cold nor warm.
Cao Jing spoke tremblingly, "Your Highness, please investigate clearly. I had absolutely no involvement in Minister Meng's matter. Minister Meng and I served as colleagues in the same ministry—how could I possibly harm him? If I had intended to harm Minister Meng, I wouldn't have tried to stop Colonel Di from intervening to resolve the situation."
Ying Gua remained silent, simply watching Cao Jing.
Feeling as if needles were pricking his back, Cao Jing mustered his courage and continued, "Yesterday, the Grievance Drum Institute received a commoner's petition against Wang Qi, Director of the Court of Imperial Stud. I advised Minister Meng not to accept the petition, truly only wishing to avoid offending the important officials behind Wang Qi. Minister Meng frankly told Vice Minister Wei he would reject the petition, but Vice Minister Wei didn't believe him. After Minister Meng left, he questioned me repeatedly and warned that if Minister Meng changed his mind, I must immediately inform the Court of Imperial Stud—or else face dire consequences."
Ying Gua finally spoke, "So it was you who tipped off the Court of Imperial Stud about Wang Qi's trouble yesterday?"Cao Jing gave a bitter smile and shook his head. "The Crown Prince issued an edict ordering Wang Qi to be detained in the Censorate Prison and commanded the Dali Temple, Ministry of Justice, and Censorate to conduct a joint trial. This matter has shaken both the Chancellery and the Privy Council—how could someone like me have had the chance to leak information? Minister Meng acted swiftly and discreetly; even I only learned of it when the Yellow-robed Attendant from the Crown Prince's side came to the remonstrance hall to deliver the edict... Later, when I went to the Court of the Imperial Stud to find Vice Minister Wei, it was only to clarify that I hadn't appended the memorial to the indictment—I know this seems like avoiding blame, but I was truly afraid. When Vice Minister Wei saw me seeking him out, he assumed I sided with him and told me—'I know you understand reason, but unfortunately, the Chancellery now has a Meng Tinghui who flatters the Crown Prince. If we don't teach her a lesson, who knows whom she might bully or harm next?'—I panicked but didn't dare say much. When I left, it was already dark, and I thought of warning Minister Meng to be careful these days. But on the way, I saw the bookcase she usually carries shattered on the ground. In my confusion, I happened to meet Colonel Di, who had just left the palace, and asked him to accompany me to the Female Officials' Dormitory..."
There was no need for Cao Jing to elaborate further—he already knew the rest.
Ying Gua pondered silently for a moment before stepping forward. "How can I be sure you weren't instructed by someone else to pin this crime on Wei Mingxian?"
Cao Jing knocked his forehead against the floor, his voice trembling. "I would never dare deceive Your Highness, even at the cost of my life."
Ying Gua turned, took his sword, and walked toward the door. "At dawn, someone will escort you out of the palace. Tomorrow, you will be transferred to the Censorate. Any objections?"
Cao Jing was stunned, taking a long moment to process the words before he was struck speechless with shock.
Ying Gua knocked on the door—three light taps followed by one heavy one. When the Imperial City Guard official outside opened it, he added, "Don't celebrate too soon. Your transfer to the Censorate serves another purpose. Since you understand reason, you should know how to conduct yourself from now on. As for the matter of Meng Tinghui, until I have fully investigated it, you remain under suspicion."
Cold sweat drenched the back of Cao Jing's neck as he nodded repeatedly, murmuring thanks.
Dawn light broke on the horizon, casting golden rays slanting through the air. Ying Gua took a diagonal step, standing bathed in the morning glow and gentle breeze, his voice dropping to nearly inaudible levels. "Your first impeachment memorial after joining the Censorate will accuse Gu Qin of forming factions and disloyalty."
Two days later, when Meng Tinghui stepped out of the Shen residence, she was unaware that the court had been stirred by another upheaval.
Though her rest hadn't been long, the bruises on her face and neck had faded significantly. The Shen household refrained from discussing court affairs with her, and she wisely didn't ask, unwilling to tarnish Grand Tutor Shen's family's pristine reputation on her account.
She left the residence at noon. Shen Zhili was still at the Bureau of Military Appointments and hadn't returned. Not daring to disturb Lady Zeng, Meng Tinghui bid a brief farewell and walked out alone.
Unexpectedly, a carriage with thick curtains was parked outside the Shen residence gate.
The carriage was modestly decorated but unusually had four wheels, which struck her as odd. If it belonged to any important official or noble family from the eastern part of the city, it would surely be elaborately adorned, unlike this plain, almost unembellished vehicle. Moreover, four-wheeled carriages were prohibited from roaming the city unless granted by imperial decree, yet this one was parked here for some unknown reason.
Though suspicious, she paid it little mind, gathering her sleeves to walk past.
The carriage curtain was lifted, and someone inside called out, "Minister Meng."Meng Tinghui halted and turned, immediately recognizing the man as the Eastern Palace attendant she had met before. Subconsciously, she glanced around but saw no sign of that person. Lowering her head with pursed lips, she stepped forward and asked, "Guard Huang, are you waiting for me?"
Huang Bo nodded, lifting the carriage curtain. "The Crown Prince has bestowed upon Lady Meng a four-wheeled carriage. Henceforth, you may ride in it when attending court or entering the palace."
She was stunned. Even among court officials of the third rank and above, those granted such an honor could be counted on one hand. How could he disregard protocol so blatantly by granting her a four-wheeled carriage...
As she pondered, Huang Bo called her name again. Setting aside her thoughts for the moment, she thanked him and gathered her skirts to board the carriage.
Huang Bo dared not share the carriage with her, instead taking the reins upfront to drive slowly. Meng Tinghui did not lower the curtain, her gaze fixed on Huang Bo's back as she softly inquired, "Guard Huang, aren't you required to be on duty at the Eastern Palace today?"
Huang Bo hesitated for a moment before replying with an awkward laugh, "The Crown Prince instructed this humble official to guard Lady Meng these past few days."
A sudden blush spread across Meng Tinghui's cheeks as she realized he had arranged both the carriage and the guard out of concern for her safety. She said, "I appreciate your efforts, Guard Huang. However, please stop the carriage at the southern alley of Imperial Street. I can walk back to the Female Officials' Dormitory from there."
Huang Bo remained silent but guided the carriage toward Yuqu East Street, an area lined with official residences.
Thinking he might be unfamiliar with the route, Meng Tinghui reminded him, "Guard Huang, this isn't the way back to the Female Officials' Dormitory."
Huang Bo urged the horse faster, stopping before a modest residence in the street. Alighting from the carriage, he smiled at her and said, "The Crown Prince has bestowed this residence upon you, Lady Meng. Please disembark."
She was stunned once more, never expecting him to grant her a residence as well. Leaning forward, she saw the simple vermilion gate, yet the eaves were high and the tiles gleaming. Upon closer inspection, much like the four-wheeled carriage, it appeared unassuming on the surface but exuded an understated grandeur.
It bore his distinctive touch.
At a loss for words, she sat in the carriage for a long moment before slowly descending. Walking to the gate, she looked up at the imposing plaque, where two flamboyant gilded characters suddenly illuminated her eyes.
Meng Residence.
She raised her eyebrows, smiling with pursed lips, though the corners of her eyes stung slightly.
Having been homeless since childhood, even after becoming an official in the capital, she had never considered purchasing a residence. After all, she lived alone, and it made little difference where she stayed.
Yet she never imagined that her first home would be bestowed by him.
Turning to Huang Bo, she noticed his broad smile and remarked wryly, "The Crown Prince's grace is overwhelming. I'm afraid my reputation as a favorite is now firmly cemented." With that, she gently pushed the door open and stepped across the threshold.
Huang Bo, having clearly visited before, was thoroughly familiar with the residence. He led her through each hall and room, introducing her to the servants and maids.
Every room was furnished, and even her belongings from the Female Officials' Dormitory had been moved here. The servants appeared honest and diligent. The courtyard was fragrant with grass, tree branches swaying gently in the spring breeze—a serene scene that gradually eased the tension in her body and mind.
After completing her tour, Meng Tinghui sat down in the courtyard, smiling faintly as she lowered her gaze. "Guard Huang, you must be laughing at me inwardly for seeming so inexperienced."
Standing nearby, Huang Bo quickly replied, "This humble official would never."Meng Tinghui looked up, her eyes bright. "To be honest with you, Guard Huang, this is my first time staying in such a place. It feels like a dream."
Huang Bo remained silent, standing quietly. Only when she rose to leave did he follow, saying in a low voice, "His Highness the Crown Prince has instructed that you need not attend court today, Lady Meng."
Meng Tinghui shook her head and continued walking. "I left in a hurry the other day. Several ledgers in the advisory office haven’t been transcribed yet, and they must be submitted and sealed in a few days. How can I let Speaker Cao handle my duties for me day after day?"
Huang Bo followed behind her and said, "Yesterday, Lord Cao was transferred to the Censorate by imperial decree and no longer serves as Upright Speaker of the Left in the Chancellery."
She paused, as if disbelieving, and turned back to ask, "What did you say?"
Huang Bo nodded. "Lord Cao has been laterally transferred to serve as Attending Censor in the Censorate."
Meng Tinghui frowned in thought for a moment before saying, "Was it the Crown Prince’s order?"
Huang Bo lowered his head. "How would this humble official know about the personnel affairs of the three judicial offices? There is no need for Lady Meng to ask or overthink—His Highness the Crown Prince has his reasons."
She turned her gaze to him, a faint smile curling her lips. "I imagine there have been more changes in the court these past two days. Why not tell me everything at once, Guard Huang?"
Huang Bo hesitated briefly before saying, "Shortly after Lord Cao’s transfer to the Censorate, he submitted a memorial impeaching Left Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs and Vice Director of the Chancellery, Gu Qin, for forming factions and acting disloyally. He also accused Vice Minister of the Court of Imperial Stud Wei Mingxian of harboring ill intentions and shielding the criminal official Wang Qi. Last night, Chancellor Gu pleaded illness and requested the Emperor’s permission to recuperate at home for ten days, during which he would not attend to court affairs. The Crown Prince, acting on the Emperor’s behalf, granted his request and dispatched imperial physicians to Chancellor Gu’s residence for consultation, along with bestowing several imperial medicines and delicacies."
Upon hearing this, Meng Tinghui lowered her eyelids, concealing the shock in her eyes.
Though she did not understand why Cao Jing had been transferred to the Censorate as an Attending Censor, she knew that the impeachment memorial against Gu Qin must have been submitted under his direction. With Wang Qi’s trial imminent, this impeachment was clearly calculated. By accusing Gu Qin of forming disloyal factions, it played right into Gu Qin’s character—he would inevitably plead illness and withdraw to his residence to avoid suspicion, determined to present an image of integrity before the court and the people.
She understood clearly that Gu Qin could not possibly have been fully aware of or in control of all the actions of the Eastern Faction officials. Many of the newly promoted officials of the fourth rank and above had leveraged Gu Qin’s name to assert their authority. Though she did not know what Gu Qin truly thought, she recognized that this impeachment, while ostensibly targeting him, was actually shielding him from being implicated in Wang Qi’s case.
Once Gu Qin withdrew from court affairs due to illness, the Eastern Faction officials, even if they wished to manipulate Wang Qi’s trial, would no longer be able to drag Gu Qin into it to bolster their influence. Thus, the Joint Trial by the Three Judicial Offices of Wang Qi’s case would proceed without obstruction.
Thinking of Wang Qi’s case, she asked again, "Wasn’t the trial supposed to begin today? How did it go?"
Huang Bo smiled. "His Highness the Crown Prince said that since the case was brought to the Grievance Drum Institute and the memorial was submitted by you, Lady Meng, the three judicial offices should delay the trial for a few days until you return to court to participate in the proceedings."
Meng Tinghui felt somewhat embarrassed and turned her head to avoid his gaze. She responded softly, slowly turning back the way she came. "If that’s the case, then there’s no need for me to rush to the advisory office. It seems everything has been arranged perfectly by His Highness. My worrying only makes me seem superfluous."
After taking a few steps, she seemed to remember something and added quietly, "There is one more thing. Later, I will send a flying missive to Lord Liao’s residence. Would you be willing to accompany me to the Liao residence this evening, Guard Huang?"When Meng Tinghui arrived at the Liao residence that evening, it was already time for lanterns to be lit. The courtyard was brightly illuminated, and someone was waiting at the gate specifically for her arrival.
After alighting from the carriage, Huang Bo still expressed concern, saying, "Your Excellency Meng, please be careful. Do not make this humble official lose his head."
She suddenly laughed, the corners of her eyes crinkling, and glanced at Huang Bo a few times before following the Liao residence attendant into the main hall to meet Liao Congkuan.
Bringing Huang Bo along wasn't because she feared anything might happen to her, but because she knew Huang Bo was the Crown Prince's trusted guard. Huang Bo would inevitably report her whereabouts in detail to him. Rather than putting Huang Bo in a difficult position, it was more convenient to have him accompany her directly to the Liao residence.
Liao Congkuan, being a man of considerable worldly experience, had understood part of her intention the moment he received the invitation card Meng Tinghui sent at sunset. That evening, he did not receive any other guests, waiting only for her visit to his residence.
As soon as Meng Tinghui entered, she bowed and said, "Your Excellency Liao."
Liao Congkuan narrowed his eyes and smiled, "Your Excellency Meng, why be so polite? Today at court, I heard the Crown Prince has bestowed upon you a carriage and residence. I'm afraid in the future, Liao might have to rely on Your Excellency Meng."
She smiled as well, already able to imagine how court gossip was discussing this matter. However, someone like Liao Congkuan wouldn't care about her true character. As long as she was the so-called favorite in others' mouths, he wouldn't refuse to get close. She then said, "I have come today to ask a favor of Your Excellency Liao."
Liao Congkuan raised an eyebrow and said lightly, "Is it related to Wang Qi's case?"
"Truly worthy of Your Excellency Liao." She smiled, speaking even more directly, "Vice Censor-in-Chief Xue Peng, who is participating in the trial of this case, has for many years not aligned with either the Eastern or Western factions. He is aloof and has very limited social connections. Yet, he was promoted single-handedly by your esteemed father, the late Lord Liao, after he took charge of the Censorate. He must be on very good terms with Your Excellency Liao."
Liao Congkuan lifted the teacup lid but did not drink. He rubbed the rim of the cup with his fingers for a long moment before saying, "Are you worried that Vice Censor-in-Chief Xue might show favoritism toward Wang Qi in this case?"
She nodded, staring at him without blinking.
Minister of the Court of Judicial Review Pan Congyun was an old minister of the Western faction, so there was no need for concern. Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice Liu Ruofei was formerly a surrendered official from Zhongwan and had recently attached himself to the Eastern faction. It was likely he would show leniency toward Wang Qi. Thus, it all came down to how Vice Censor-in-Chief Xue Peng would act.
Liao Congkuan suddenly chuckled lightly, "Your Excellency Meng, why go to such lengths? Since the Crown Prince has allowed you to represent the two advisory offices in participating in this trial, who in the court doesn't know his intention? Even if Xue Peng sides with Liu Ruofei this time, the opinions of you and Pan Congyun alone would be enough to severely damage Wang Qi's reputation, not to mention reducing his official rank and imposing fines. Why must Your Excellency Meng insist on driving him to utter ruin?"
Meng Tinghui's expression remained unchanged, her voice quite cold, "What if I do want to drive him to utter ruin? If Your Excellency Liao is willing to help with this, I will surely find an opportunity to repay you. If you are unwilling, I will simply act as if I never came here tonight."
Liao Congkuan thought for a moment, "What can Your Excellency Meng offer in return?"
With a smile on her face but a slightly firm tone, she said, "Your Excellency Liao has long engaged extensively with both the Eastern and Western factions. I imagine you have no need for my meager repayment. All I can promise is that if I ever come into power, I will not forget tonight's matter. I just wonder if Your Excellency Liao thinks me worthy."
"Quite bold words," Liao Congkuan's smile lines deepened, but his eyes were profound, "Liao will help you with this small matter this time. I hope Your Excellency Meng will not forget what you said tonight in the future."
Meng Tinghui stood up, bowed with a smile, and said, "I take my leave."Liao Congkuan also stood up and accompanied her out of the main hall before summoning a servant. "See the guest out."
Huang Bo's expression relaxed slightly upon seeing her emerge, and he promptly escorted her toward the exit of the Liao residence. Just then, Liao Congkuan's laughter sounded from behind. "Minister Meng."
She turned leisurely to look back.
Liao Congkuan's gaze swept past Huang Bo before settling on her. Surprisingly, he gave a slight nod. "I believe that one day, Minister Meng will surely command such respect and awe from the court that all will be in awe."
Assuming he was alluding to the Crown Prince's favor, her expression shifted imperceptibly. However, the night concealed her displeasure, leaving only the slight curve of her lips visible. She stood still for a long moment before giving a single nod. Without uttering a word, she followed Huang Bo and strode swiftly away.
·
The bustling street scenes unfolded along the road. Though her body was in the carriage, her heart remained within the vermilion walls of the palace. As the carriage jostled slightly, her heart trembled and wavered unpredictably.
As they approached Yuqu East Street, she suddenly felt everything was unreal.
What virtue or ability did she possess to earn such trust from him? Merely holding a fifth-rank position, yet bestowed with a carriage and residence by imperial decree.
Never in her life had she intended to flatter or curry favor. Everything she did stemmed from genuine affection and longing for him. But now, lowering her gaze to examine herself, how had she ended up truly appearing like a sycophant?
And did he perceive her feelings as sincere or feigned? She did not know. Were all these gestures truly from his own heart?
Since ancient times, harmonious relationships between rulers and ministers rarely ended well. Moreover, he was no foolish sovereign—he would never grant her excessive favors merely out of personal protection.
As she pondered this without resolution, Huang Bo soon reined in the horses ahead, gradually halting the carriage.
Lifting the curtain to disembark, she spotted a figure standing outside the residence—tall and poised, with an imposing bearing that momentarily disoriented her. She watched blankly as he strode over and boarded the carriage.
The curtain was pulled shut. Outside, Huang Bo exclaimed with mingled surprise and delight, "Your Highness!" before retaking the reins.
Before she could gather her wits, someone had settled beside her. The faint scent of palace-incensed robes wafted through the air as his deep, resonant voice sounded in her ear, "To West Ferry Street."
The carriage swept past the entrance of the Meng residence and continued onward.
Meng Tinghui abruptly turned her head to gaze at the man beside her. In the dim interior, she couldn’t clearly see his face, yet her heart pounded fiercely. After a dazed pause, she murmured softly, "Thank you, Your Highness, for bestowing upon me the carriage, horses, and residence."
The events of that night suddenly flooded her mind. Seeing him now, she felt a twinge of awkwardness, especially after receiving so many rewards from him, which only heightened her unease.
Ying Gua remained motionless. "Instead of staying in your residence at night, where have you been?"
She hadn’t expected him to visit her at night, nor did she know how long he had waited outside. At a loss for words, she finally sighed after a long silence, "I went to Minister Liao’s residence."
He shifted slightly, reaching across to lift the gauze curtain on her side, allowing sparse streetlight to filter in. In that fleeting glow, his eyes swept over her face and neck before he released the curtain. "Your injuries have barely faded, and already you’re eager to go out and stir up trouble?"
Under his gaze, she fell silent, unable to find the right words. Ultimately, she lowered her eyes without a sound.
His sharp eyes remained fixed on her like blades. "Did you visit Liao Congkuan to ensure Wang Qi is utterly destroyed?"
She continued sitting quietly, offering no response.
She knew he must have employed considerable tactics these past few days. Cao Jing’s impeachment memorial against Gu Qin alone revealed his reluctance to let the matter implicate more people. Allowing her to participate in Wang Qi’s trial was already an immense favor, yet she had privately sought out Liao Congkuan—undoubtedly displeasing him.
After a prolonged silence from him, she secretly lifted her lashes to glance at him, only to meet his unwavering gaze—stern yet faintly tender—startling her.
His eyes shifted slightly as he murmured, "I do not mean to reprimand you. There’s no need to be so tense."
Hearing the slight relaxation in his tone, she curved her lips and changed the subject. "What brings Your Highness here tonight?"
He didn’t answer but urged Huang Bo to drive faster.
As they neared West Ferry Street, the noise outside grew—hawkers’ cries and children’s laughter blending into the carriage, infusing the interior with warmth.
Huang Bo steered the carriage into a side alley and halted, announcing from outside, "Your Highness."
Ying Gua lifted the carriage curtain and said to her, "Get down."
She vaguely understood but hardly dared believe he would do such a thing. Her questioning eyes sought his, but he offered no response, so she gathered her skirts and alighted.
Not having attended court today, she wasn’t in official attire. Instead, she wore a plain long ruqun skirt paired with a deep jujube-colored beizi embroidered with gold thread, accentuating her figure.
He also disembarked, turned to give Huang Bo a few instructions, and then led her toward the bustling night market ahead.The lanterns and candles blazed brightly, allowing her to finally take a proper look at him. He too wore simple robes with a plain sash, yet his right eye was once again covered by a black cloth.
Her heart fluttered as she asked softly, "Is Your Highness taking this subject to the night market?"
Instead of answering, he countered, "Are you unwilling to go?" Though his voice remained cool, his tone was remarkably gentle.
She shook her head, feeling something inside her melt and overflow, filling her chest until her entire body trembled slightly.
That night when she had told him the plum-red box was lost, he hadn't spoken, but she had been utterly heartbroken. It was something he had given her, carrying such precious meaning that she couldn't let it go no matter what.
Tonight, he had left the palace and come here... just to take her to the night market?
Before she could ponder further, she felt warmth envelop her right hand - he had taken it in his. His long arm dropped naturally, the cool silk of his wide sleeve falling to conceal their joined hands from view.
Startled, she paused mid-step and looked up at him.
He tightened his grip on her hand and said quietly, "It's crowded. Don't get separated."
She lowered her gaze and let him lead her forward, her fingers curling slightly to return his grasp, the scalding warmth piercing straight to her heart.
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