Mo Li

While Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao were busy engaging with various influential figures, Xu Qingchen’s work efficiency had plummeted to zero. For once, Mo Xiuyao’s conscience stirred, recognizing that he had handled the situation rather unfairly. Rarely taking the initiative, he took over Qingchen Gongzi’s usual official duties to allow the latter to focus on dealing with a certain persistent woman. Within a few days, nearly everyone in Prince Ding’s Estate had learned that there was a young lady desperately chasing after Qingchen Gongzi, clamoring to marry him. Unfortunately, Qingchen Gongzi showed no interest in her and seemed to avoid her at all costs.

Madam Xu, who had long been concerned about her eldest son’s marital prospects, rushed over upon hearing the news. However, after less than a quarter of an hour in Dongfang You’s presence, she left thoroughly disappointed. Privately, she confided to Xu Er Furen, “I’d rather Qingchen never marry than have him wed a woman who lives in a fantasy world and insists on dragging others into her delusions.”

Regardless of the Xu family’s stance, Dongfang You’s relentless daily visits to Prince Ding’s Estate to demand an audience with Qingchen Gongzi and press for marriage became a classic source of entertainment for the estate’s residents. Some even began placing bets on how long Qingchen Gongzi could hold out and whether he would eventually marry the young lady from the Dongfang family.

“Young Master, Miss Dongfang requests an audience.”

Qingchen Gongzi, who had just managed to steal a rare moment of leisure, frowned at the guard’s report—especially at the barely suppressed amusement on the man’s face. The usually composed and refined young master found himself wishing he could chop Mo Xiuyao into pieces. Rubbing his temples, Xu Qingchen said, “Tell Miss Dongfang that I’m not here.” For the first time in his life, Qingchen Gongzi felt the urge to flee in panic.

The guard hesitated before replying, “Miss Dongfang said she knows you’re in the estate. If you refuse to see her, she’ll wait at the gates and refuse to leave. Young Master… there’s already a crowd of onlookers gathering outside.”

Xu Qingchen was so exasperated he nearly laughed. But upon reflection, he realized that while the guards might be enjoying the spectacle, they were indeed in a difficult position. Dongfang You’s identity was special—at least until Prince Ding’s Estate fully investigated the Boundless Mountains’ background, they couldn’t afford to treat her too harshly. With a resigned sigh, Xu Qingchen nodded. “Very well, invite Miss Dongfang in.”

As the guard departed to carry out the order, Xu Qingyan popped his head in from the doorway, grinning. “Elder Brother, has Dongfang You come to see you again?”

Xu Qingchen cast him a cool glance. “If you have so much free time, you can help me entertain our guest. Stop idling around all day.”

Xu Qingyan shrank back, looking pitiful. Even Elder Brother is taking his frustration out on me now! After over a year of hard work in the north, he had finally returned to rest during their grandfather’s birthday celebration. Was it so wrong to take a break? How had he suddenly become “idling around”?

Tentatively stepping into the study, Xu Qingyan obediently stood before his elder brother like a scolded child. “Elder Brother, I was wrong.”

Xu Qingchen smiled faintly. “Oh? And what exactly were you wrong about?”Xu Qingyan declared righteously, "I shouldn't have been idling around aimlessly. I'll go help Father and Uncle right away, then attend to Grandfather to fulfill my filial duties." My biggest mistake was taking schadenfreude in front of Elder Brother. Xu Qingchen nodded in satisfaction and smiled faintly, "Since you recognize your mistake, stay here and accompany me in entertaining Miss Dongfang."

Huh? Xu Qingyan's eyes widened in horror. He had witnessed Dongfang You's formidable power firsthand—she dared to lecture anyone she met. She expounded on governance and rulership before Prince Ding, lectured Li'er on wifely and queenly duties, and even dared to preach about motherhood to Mother. Had she ever been a mother herself? Xu Qingyan suspected she might even dare to teach Grandfather about being a role model if given the chance. The mere thought was like a nightmare.

"Elder Brother... is that really necessary? Miss Dongfang came to see you..."

Xu Qingchen smiled, "How so? Miss Dongfang is an honored guest of Prince Ding's Estate. It would be more proper for us brothers to receive her together."

Just as Xu Qingyan was about to plead for mercy, a snow-white figure appeared at the door. Dongfang You stood at the entrance and, upon seeing Xu Qingyan, frowned slightly before nodding coolly, "Why is Fifth Young Master here?"

Xu Qingyan couldn't help but widen his eyes. This girl's words were truly bizarre—what did she mean by "why is he here"? Even if Prince Ding's Estate wasn't his home, it was his cousin's residence, making his presence infinitely more normal than hers, an unrelated outsider. And what was that seemingly arrogant frown and nod supposed to mean? Taking a deep breath, Young Master Xu managed to recall the basics of hospitality. Stiffening his handsome face, he nodded and said, "Isn't Miss Dongfang also here?"

Dongfang You's eyes widened in turn. Even someone as obtuse as her could sense the hostility in Xu Qingyan's words. She simply couldn't understand why he was being so discourteous, completely overlooking that her own greeting hadn't been particularly polite either.

Xu Qingchen smiled and interjected, "Miss Dongfang, please have a seat. May I ask what brings you here so early in the morning?"

Dongfang You inclined her head and said, "I came to ask—Qingchen Gongzi, are you willing to marry me?" At these words, Xu Qingchen's smile froze, while Xu Qingyan's lips twitched uncontrollably. After a pause, Xu Qingchen lowered his gaze and sipped his tea calmly. After a moment of contemplation, he replied, "Miss Dongfang, I believe I've already given you my answer. I decline."

"Why?" Dongfang You frowned, clearly struggling to comprehend his refusal. After some thought, she added, "I've heard that Qingchen Gongzi shares an extraordinary relationship with the Queen of Nanzhao. But the Queen is already married and expecting a child. As an outstanding man among men, you should understand the need for decisive action. Moreover, I am in no way inferior to the Queen of Nanzhao. Anything she can do, I can do as well—and better..."

"Miss Dongfang!" Xu Qingchen frowned, his handsome features showing clear displeasure as he said sternly, "The Queen of Nanzhao and I are merely friends. I must ask you not to spread baseless rumors. As a man, it matters little to me, but the Queen and her consort share a profound bond. For you to speak this way..."Dongfang You was taken aback for a moment before nodding. "Very well, I was in the wrong. In that case, why is Qingchen Gongzi unwilling to marry me?"

Xu Qingyan, who had been listening nearby, deeply felt that despite his elder brother's vast knowledge and strategic brilliance, Dongfang You was truly his nemesis. Clearing his throat lightly, Xu Qingyan smiled and asked, "Miss Dongfang, why must my elder brother marry you?" Dongfang You replied matter-of-factly, "Qingchen Gongzi is the cousin of Princess Ding. Once I marry him, our Boundless Mountains will naturally assist Prince Ding, and I will secretly support him in achieving his great ambitions. Is there anything wrong with that?" Xu Qingyan nodded with a smile. "Nothing wrong, but... why must Prince Ding's Estate rely on your assistance? Can it not achieve greatness without you?"

Such a direct, almost rude question troubled Dongfang You considerably. She frowned in thought before answering, "But Prince Ding is the future ruler I have chosen. Naturally, he requires my support."

Xu Qingyan rolled his eyes. "Prince Ding's Estate has been doing just fine without your help all this time."

"With me, it will undoubtedly be even better," Dongfang You finally regained her confidence. "After all these years, Prince Ding's Estate still hasn't escaped the predicament of being surrounded by powerful enemies. Doesn't that prove the incompetence of his advisors?"

"..." The two brothers fell silent. This was undoubtedly an indiscriminate attack—a single sentence insulting everyone, young and old, in Prince Ding's Estate. What predicament? Xu Qingyan cursed inwardly. Was Dongfang You blind? Currently, Prince Ding's territory was at least the second largest among all nations, if not the largest. Its military strength was so formidable that no power dared provoke it. What more did she want? In just a few short years, Prince Ding had gone from being besieged on all sides to sweeping across the land—even the most fantastical tales couldn't match such a legend!

Suppressing his irritation, Xu Qingyan nodded at Dongfang You's self-assured expression and said, "I understand. In truth, we would be very pleased if Miss Dongfang were willing to assist Prince Ding."

Xu Qingchen, who had been idly tracing the rim of his teacup, raised an eyebrow slightly but remained silent as he observed his usually mischievous younger brother. Dongfang You looked at Xu Qingyan in confusion, unsure why he had suddenly changed his tone.

Xu Qingyan cleared his throat and said solemnly, "Head Steward Mo of Prince Ding's Estate has been widowed for many years and remains unmarried. Yet he is one of Prince Ding's most trusted confidants. If Miss Dongfang would deign to marry him, both Prince Ding and Wang Fei would undoubtedly recognize the sincerity of you and the Boundless Mountains. What do you think, elder brother?"

This time, it was Qingchen Gongzi's turn for his lips to twitch. However, skilled at masking his emotions, he naturally lifted his teacup to his lips to hide his reaction. Calmly, he nodded and said, "Fifth Brother speaks wisely."

"H-Head Steward Mo?" Dongfang You was dumbstruck, struggling to recall who this person was. In truth, she had met Head Steward Mo several times, but her arrogance had led her to barely acknowledge even Xu Qingyan with a slight nod. To her, Head Steward Mo—no matter how special his position—was merely a servant of Prince Ding's Estate, hardly worth remembering.Xu Qingyan nodded with a sincere expression, "Yes, it's that uncle dressed in black. To be honest, in all of Li Cheng, he's the only middle-aged man who can wear Prince Ding's Estate's black martial attire with such dashing vigor." The other older men were either military officers or scholars. Only Head Steward Mo, who was trained in martial arts but had always handled scholarly duties, could wear the black martial attire with such a perfect blend of heroic spirit and refined elegance.

Dongfang You immediately recalled the gray-haired steward in black she had seen during her first visit to Prince Ding's Estate, and her face instantly twisted in discomfort. Even when Mo Xiuyao had publicly told her to get lost before so many people, her expression hadn't been this ugly.

"Him... That's absolutely unacceptable!" Dongfang You reflexively rejected the idea outright.

Xu Qingyan blinked, "Why not? Although our Xu Family is quite close to Prince Ding, we still can't compare to those who've served Prince Ding's Estate for generations. Head Steward Mo's family has been loyal to the estate for generations. Moreover... Didn't Miss Dongfang say you didn't care whom you married? Then marrying Head Steward Mo would be perfect. I'm sure although he has no intention to marry, for the sake of Prince Ding's Estate, he would sacrifice without hesitation. But my elder brother is different—our Xu Family cares deeply about whom he marries. My grandfather said... better none than flawed."

This was probably the first time in her life Dongfang You had encountered someone like Xu Qingyan. Her pretty face turned red, then purple, then green, cycling through colors like a palette.

Xu Qingchen secretly gave Xu Qingyan an approving glance before setting down his teacup and addressing Dongfang You, "Miss Dongfang, my fifth brother speaks the truth. If you're willing, Prince Ding's Estate would naturally welcome you warmly. I could even request Wang Ye to personally visit the master of Boundless Mountains to propose on your behalf. What do you think?"

"No!" Dongfang You nearly shrieked. This outburst completely stripped away the mysterious aura she had previously maintained, leaving her no different from any ordinary, sharp-tongued girl throwing a tantrum over an unsatisfactory marriage proposal. "He's an old man! And a servant! How could he possibly be worthy of me?"

Xu Qingchen and Xu Qingyan's expressions darkened slightly at her words, though they remained silent. If anything, it was she who was unworthy of Head Steward Mo. Though no longer young, he was still handsome and didn't appear old. As the steward of Prince Ding's Estate, he was undoubtedly one of the prince's most trusted confidants. Had he any intention to marry, many families in Li Cheng would be scrambling to offer their daughters.

Though it was somewhat ungentlemanly to provoke a young lady like this, Xu Qingchen had grown thoroughly weary of Dongfang You's persistent harassment these past days. Seeing her behave this way now only deepened his displeasure.

"In that case, it seems Miss Dongfang lacks sincerity. Prince Ding's Estate has no need for additional talents anyway. You may leave." Xu Qingchen said coolly, lifting his teacup in the traditional gesture of dismissal.

Once again defeated, Dongfang You shot Xu Qingyan a resentful glare before declaring, "I won't give up!" and stormed out.As soon as she left, the study fell into silence for a moment before Xu Qingyan finally couldn't hold back and burst into laughter. Watching his younger brother doubled over with mirth, Xu Qingchen shook his head faintly with an amused smile but said nothing. Xu Qingyan wiped tears of laughter from his eyes while rubbing his stomach and asked, "Elder Brother, is that woman really from the Boundless Mountains? This is just too..."

Xu Qingchen replied calmly, "Whether she is or not, we'll know soon enough. But most likely, there's no mistake. So you see...one shouldn't stay detached from the mundane world for too long, or you might accidentally raise such an oddity. I wonder if the master of the Boundless Mountains would regret it upon seeing this Miss Dongfang."

"Young Masters, His Highness and Wang Fei request your presence," Head Steward Mo's voice came from the doorway, his expression composed as he regarded them.

The two non-martial brothers exchanged glances, suddenly feeling somewhat guilty about their earlier mockery. "Head Steward Mo...how long have you been standing there?" Xu Qingyan asked hesitantly.

Steward Mo answered serenely, "Since Fifth Young Master said I would sacrifice myself for Prince Ding's Estate without hesitation. Many thanks for such high praise."

Xu Qingyan flushed with embarrassment. "You're too kind, Steward."

Outside Prince Ding's Estate, Dongfang You's face remained stormy. The scrutinizing gazes following her felt like needles pricking her skin. She wasn't an unfeeling block of wood—she was acutely aware of the surrounding whispers and stares. Though many seemed to be laughing at Xu Qingchen's expense, in truth this was an undeserved misfortune for him; the true target of everyone's scorn and ridicule was Dongfang You herself. Yet she treated this as inevitable hardship on her path to success, gritting her teeth and pretending nothing was wrong. But today, after being so openly mocked and humiliated by Xu Qingyan, even her thick skin couldn't completely shield her.

She had genuinely wanted to help Prince Ding's Estate—she and the Boundless Mountains could offer so many benefits. She refused to believe Prince Ding and Xu Qingchen didn't understand this. Yet they deliberately disregarded her. In that moment, Dongfang You resented Prince Ding for failing to recognize her worth, and despised the Xu Family for their ungrateful rejection. Any other family would have been scrambling to forge ties with the Boundless Mountains, yet Prince Ding's household displayed such arrogance and rudeness! Still, none of this would shake her ambition. Before descending the mountain, she had vowed to her master that she would achieve feats surpassing even their ancestors. She would absolutely assist in unifying the realm under one ruler, making the Boundless Mountains' prestige known throughout the land.

"Miss Dongfang?" A deep male voice called from behind as Dongfang You wandered distractedly away from the estate. Turning, she saw Mo Jingli standing some distance away watching her. Immediately schooling her expression to conceal her earlier mix of dejection and resentment, she regarded him coolly.

It must be said that Dongfang You had mastered her so-called secret arts quite well. In the mere instant she lifted her head, she seemed to transform completely. Her beautiful face remained impassive without a trace of smile, yet radiated an inexplicable magnetism that commanded attention. Bathed in an almost mystical glow, she appeared like an immortal descended from the heavens—for a heartbeat, Mo Jingli felt his pulse skip.

"Prince Li, is there something you need?"Mo Jingli composed himself and leisurely walked up to Dongfang You, looking down at her as he asked, "Miss Dongfang, are you in low spirits?"

Dongfang You was no fool—how could she not tell Mo Jingli was trying to ingratiate himself with her? Yet she quickly realized that Prince Li's attentions did not please her at all. Instead, they only made her recall more vividly the ruthless rejections she had faced from Prince Ding's Estate and the Xu Family. Instantly, she felt disinterested and, after a glance at Mo Jingli, lowered her eyes indifferently.

As long as he wasn't facing Dongfang You's face or eyes, Mo Jingli's senses remained normal, and he naturally picked up on her coldness toward him.

"Has Miss Dongfang visited Prince Ding's Estate again?" Mo Jingli asked casually, unperturbed as he walked alongside her.

Dongfang You stopped and looked at him seriously. "Does Prince Li look down on me?" Mo Jingli shook his head. "How could that be? I merely wish to offer some advice to spare you further disappointment."

Dongfang You paused. "Go on."

Mo Jingli said, "The depth of Mo Xiuyao's feelings for Ye Li is known throughout the world. He would never do anything that might displease Princess Ding." Dongfang You nodded. "I already know that, which is why I have no intention of coming between Prince Ding and his consort." Mo Jingli continued, "I understand you think Xu Qingchen is also a good choice, but... the Xu Family, especially Xu Qingchen, may appear gentle and refined, yet inwardly, he is likely even prouder than Mo Xiuyao. He would never accept a marriage without affection. That's why, despite being over thirty, he remains unmarried—even Mr. Qingyun and Mr. Hongyu cannot force him into anything. If you keep pestering him, it may only backfire."

Dongfang You's heart stirred slightly, lost in thought. "Is that so? Then what if..." What if I make Xu Qingchen fall in love with me?

Taking one look at her expression, Mo Jingli guessed her thoughts. He smiled faintly. "There's one more thing. The Xu Family has strict traditions. Though they dote on Princess Ding and do not restrain her, that is only because she was born a Ye and married into the Mo family, not the Xu. No matter how talented a Xu woman may be, she is ultimately expected to manage the household and raise children. Take Madam Xu, Second Madam Xu, and the second young mistress—were they not renowned talents in their youth? Yet now, they live in obscurity. So, if you truly wish to marry into the Xu Family, you should consider carefully."

Dongfang You gave him a cool glance. "I know what you're thinking, but I've already chosen Prince Ding's Estate. No matter how much you scheme, it's useless."

Mo Jingli's smile stiffened, and he forced a chuckle. "You jest, Miss. I merely wished to offer well-meaning advice."

Dongfang You scoffed lightly and ignored him, heading toward her temporary residence.

Behind her, Mo Xiuyao watched her departing figure, his eyes gleaming with an unshakable determination.Dongfang You did not stay at the posthouse with Zhennan Wang. As Zhennan Wang had said, the influence of the Boundless Mountains indeed spanned the world. Even in Li Cheng, they had their own stronghold. The place where Dongfang You stood was a rather spacious empty courtyard in Li Cheng. When the Mo Family Army first arrived in the city, many officials and wealthy merchants fled to the inner regions, leaving numerous residences vacant. This particular house had been purchased at that time, yet no one had moved in until Dongfang You's arrival.

Dongfang You dismissed the servants who came forward to greet her and turned to return to her room. As soon as she closed the door and turned around, she saw a figure sitting by her bed. The room was dimly lit, and the layers of sheer curtains obscured her view of the visitor. With a flick of her wrist, two short swords were already in her hands. Pointing one at the figure, Dongfang You demanded sharply, "Who are you?" Without waiting for an answer, she lunged forward, her short swords transforming into twin silver arcs that sliced through the layers of gauze curtains.

"You'er." A low, slightly hoarse female voice sounded in the room. Dongfang You was startled and quickly restrained her momentum, landing gracefully. Seeing the figure emerging from within, she immediately knelt and bowed, "Master."

The newcomer was a middle-aged woman in her forties or fifties, her appearance even more striking than Dongfang You's. Though time had faded her youthful beauty, she still retained an elegant charm. She gazed coolly at Dongfang You and nodded, "You have quite the nerve."

Dongfang You froze, a hint of panic in her voice, "Master... has You'er done something wrong?"

The woman stared at her for a long moment before suddenly raising her hand and delivering a sharp slap across Dongfang You's face. The fair, jade-like skin instantly flushed red, but under the woman's cold, indifferent gaze, she dared not utter another word. The woman then said, "You overheard a few words between me and the elders and dared to sneak down the mountain? Sneaking away is one thing—your martial skills are enough to protect you out there. But you actually dared to seek out Prince Ding! Who gave you such audacity? For all these years, Boundless Mountains has never chosen Prince Ding's Estate. Do you know why?"