The Double

Chapter 149: Shared Joy

Day by day, time passed. Nine days had gone by since encountering Haitang that day.

During these nine days, Haitang had followed Situ Jiuyue's instructions, allowing Situ Jiuyue to treat the scars on her face using venomous spiders. Though Haitang never explicitly described the hardship of the process, when Zhao Ke came to report the news, his expression still carried a trace of pity.

It was evident that the suffering was truly intense.

Yet Haitang endured it. The first seven days of the treatment with venomous spiders were the most grueling, but she managed to refrain from scratching the wounds and safely made it through. As long as no unexpected complications arose, it wouldn't be long before her original appearance was restored.

The pain she endured had not been in vain but had yielded excellent results, which was ultimately a cause for joy. Amid this brief happiness, Second Miss Jiang welcomed her first New Year in Yanjing City after eight years.

Early in the morning, Jiang Li put on the brand-new clothes tailored by the seamstress: a blue satin outer garment with embroidered patterns and a matching skirt adorned with cloud motifs and water ripples. She usually preferred understated colors, so the fabric hues were not particularly vibrant, but the materials were of the highest quality, and the craftsmanship was exquisite. Over the past six months, she had grown slightly taller, her figure now graceful and slender, her beauty striking—a rare sight of brilliance in Yanjing City.

Tong'er fixed a sandalwood lotus silver hairpin into Jiang Li's bun, glanced at the mirror, and felt quite satisfied herself. "It's done, Miss. Please take a look."

Jiang Li gazed at the girl in the mirror—still unfamiliar. But now, she no longer resisted the identity of Second Miss Jiang; it seemed she had genuinely accepted this reality. Through more than half a year of interaction, she had grown accustomed to this new identity.

She said, "Let's go. We'll pay our respects to Old Madam Jiang at Evening Phoenix Hall."

At the start of the New Year, it was customary to greet the matriarch.

In Evening Phoenix Hall, the Jiang family had gathered. As it was the New Year, everyone wore smiles—except for Jiang Youyao. Jiang Bingji was still too young to understand, but Jiang Youyao found it impossible to feel any joy. She couldn't comprehend why the Jiang family could still laugh when her mother had died. Over the years, Ji Shuran had contributed much, if not through merit, then through hard work. How could a decade of shared experiences vanish overnight? The Jiang family was simply too heartless!

She habitually blamed all problems on others, never considering what Ji Shuran had actually done. Far from mourning Ji Shuran, others even deemed her death a good riddance. Jiang Youyao wore her displeasure plainly on her face, which only deepened Old Madam Jiang's disappointment. This granddaughter was stubborn and ungrateful, clearly warped by Ji Shuran's upbringing years ago. It was lamentable that no one had noticed it back then, allowing her character to develop into what it was now.

Old Madam Jiang decided to let Jiang Youyao stew for a while and instead engaged in conversation with Lu Shi and the others, paying Jiang Youyao no mind. Jiang Yuanbai was also discussing recent matters with Jiang Yuanping. Jiang Youyao felt as if the entire Jiang family had isolated her, trembling with rage.

Just then, Jiang Li entered.As soon as Jiang Li entered, she paid her respects in turn to Old Madam Jiang and the others. Old Madam Jiang accepted the greeting cheerfully, taking a pouch filled with silver anklets from her maid and pressing it into Jiang Li's hand. Lu Shi also presented a pouch, and Jiang Youyao, with her sharp eyes, noticed that the pouch Lu Shi gave Jiang Li was much larger than the one she had received.

"Birds of a feather flock together—they're all in cahoots," Jiang Youyao thought bitterly. If Jiang Li hadn't caused her mother's death back then, Lu Shi would never have taken over the household management. It was entirely possible that Lu Shi had colluded with Jiang Li early on, just to harm Ji Shuran!

Jiang Yuanping also exchanged a few words with Jiang Li, smiling amiably. As a man, he often wore a cheerful and friendly demeanor, but in reality, he was a wolf in sheep's clothing. However, toward his niece, he did harbor some familial affection. Especially since Jiang Li had demonstrated exceptional intelligence, which pleased Jiang Yuanping even more. Having a clever niece was far more beneficial to the family than having a foolish one—at least she wouldn't cause trouble everywhere.

Yang Shi of the third branch also gave Jiang Li a pouch. Jiang Li had initially assumed that the third branch, being financially strained, wouldn't offer much. But the pouch felt surprisingly heavy. Instinctively, Jiang Li glanced at Yang Shi and was astonished to see that Yang Shi's attire was far more luxurious than before.

The third branch was the most impoverished in the Jiang family. Old Madam Jiang paid them no mind, Yang Shi's dowry was meager, and they relied solely on Jiang Yuanxing's official salary. That meager income was barely enough to cover the family's expenses, which was precisely why Jiang Yu'e had once curried favor with Ji Shuran and her daughter, hoping to receive some "gifts."

But now... Jiang Li noticed Jiang Yuyan. Although Jiang Yuyan's clothes were also commissioned by Old Madam Jiang, the fabric was brand new. However, the gilded cloud-shaped agate hairpin in her hair was not a gift from Old Madam Jiang. That single hairpin likely cost around a hundred taels of silver—a significant expense for the third branch.

Noticing Jiang Li staring at her intently, Jiang Yuyan asked timidly, "Second Sister, is something wrong?"

"Nothing," Jiang Li replied with a smile. "I was just thinking how lovely your hairpin is."

Yang Shi's eyes darted, and she laughed first. "A Li, you flatter us. You've seen all kinds of fine jewelry—surely you wouldn't fancy Yuyan's humble hairpin."

Old Madam Jiang frowned slightly. Yang Shi's words were clearly meant for her ears. Among the Jiang family's daughters, those from the third branch were the most poorly dressed. But so what? She had never liked Jiang Yuanxing. If it weren't for Jiang Yuanxing's mother meddling back then, how could she and Old Master Jiang have grown distant? If the third branch had the ability to climb higher, she wouldn't stand in their way. But if they lacked that ability, she certainly wouldn't lend a hand.

Jiang Li smiled and said, "Although the hairpin may not be the finest, it suits Fourth Sister perfectly. That's why I was so captivated."

Jiang Yuyan blushed and lowered her head. Among the Jiang family's daughters, her looks were far from outstanding, but with careful dressing, she could be considered delicate and pretty. Jiang Li's praise left her flustered.

Just as Yang Shi was about to say more, Old Madam Jiang turned to Jiang Li and asked, "Li Yatou, when will Third Master Ye and Shi Jie arrive?"

Jiang Li replied with a smile, "They should be here soon."

"The Ye family?" Jiang Youyao's voice wavered slightly. "Why would they come?""This year, both Cousin Ye and Third Uncle are spending the New Year in Yanjing City. Father said since they’re family, why not join us for the reunion dinner?" Jiang Li spoke gently.

Jiang Youyao sneered, "What kind of family are they?"

"Youyao!" Jiang Yuanbai’s tone was stern, and his severity silenced Jiang Youyao at once. Still, she felt deeply resentful. The Ye and Jiang families hadn’t interacted for years. What was this? Now that her own mother was dead, were they suddenly eager to cozy up to the Jiang family again? Even if Ji Shuran was gone, the family with marital ties to the Jiangs was the Ji family, not the Ye family! If the Ye family could come, why couldn’t the Ji family?

This was clearly a case of "the tea cools once the guest leaves"!

A wave of desolation washed over Jiang Youyao. She felt like an isolated figure in the Jiang household, unwelcome by everyone. The more triumphant Jiang Li appeared, the more hatred festered in her heart. If only she weren’t confined to the estate—once she got the chance, she would surely take revenge on Jiang Li!

Seeing Jiang Youyao’s gritted teeth and furious expression, Jiang Li knew exactly what she was thinking and shook her head inwardly. Still, Jiang Yuanbai’s request for her to invite Ye Shijie and Ye Mingyu to the Jiang residence had surprised her as well. For Ye Shijie, this was a good opportunity. With Jiang Yuanbai’s support, his official career would advance more smoothly. The bureaucratic world was far from clean; only by reaching a high enough position could one protect those they cared about. Ye Shijie had the Ye family to safeguard. As long as it didn’t violate his conscience, taking a few shortcuts wasn’t entirely unacceptable.

Although both Ye Shijie and Ye Mingyu had initially expressed reluctance to attend, Jiang Li had managed to persuade them after much effort.

Just as they were speaking, a servant announced the arrival of the Ye family’s master and young master.

Not only had Ye Mingyu and Ye Shijie come themselves, but they had also brought Xue Huaiyuan along. At the sudden sight of Xue Huaiyuan, the Jiang family was momentarily stunned. Ye Shijie explained matter-of-factly, "Old Master Xue was alone at the Ye residence, and I wasn’t comfortable leaving him there. So I brought him along. He’s improved quite a bit now. Ah, Lord Jiang, you’re an official too—speaking of which, Old Master Xue was once a fine official himself. Perhaps the two of you could chat; you might even gain some insights."

Ye Mingyu couldn’t resist provoking Jiang Yuanbai the moment he saw him. Jiang Yuanbai knew reasoning with him was futile, so he merely snorted coldly and ignored him.

As for Xue Huaiyuan, since he was here, he might as well stay. Besides, as Ye Mingyu had said, he did seem much better, standing quietly to the side, though he remained silent.

Thus, for this reunion dinner, though the Jiang family was missing a few members, it had gained a few others.

At the dinner table, Old Madam Jiang inquired warmly about Ye Shijie’s recent affairs. Although Ye Shijie held no particular fondness for the Jiang family internally, he was far more courteous than Ye Mingyu. He answered each of Old Madam Jiang’s questions thoughtfully and appropriately. This talented young man, with his bright future and understanding of propriety, drew looks of approval from both Jiang Yuanbai and Jiang Yuanping.

Jiang Li noticed that Jiang Yuyan, who usually kept her head down and spoke little, was frequently glancing at Ye Shijie today. Though her glances were discreet, Jiang Li still caught them.

Lost in thought, Jiang Li couldn’t help but turn her gaze to Ye Shijie.Ye Shijie was naturally handsome and spirited, at an age that was truly his prime. Although currently only a vice director in the Ministry of Revenue, it was undoubtedly a lucrative position. Moreover, it was said the Emperor favored him greatly, leaving ample opportunity for future advancement.

Such a young man was naturally popular among young ladies. However... even if Jiang Yuyan truly developed feelings for Ye Shijie, it would be impossible. Firstly, the Ye family would never form another marital alliance with the Jiang family—having already lost one daughter to the Jiangs, they wouldn't sacrifice a grandson as well. Secondly, Old Madam Jiang would never consent, as Jiang Yuyan was merely the daughter of an illegitimate child. Thirdly and most crucially, Jiang Li didn't detect the slightest hint of affection in Ye Shijie's eyes.

Since Ye Shijie had no interest in Jiang Yuyan, this matter could never come to fruition.

Perhaps her gaze at Ye Shijie had been too intense, for he sensed it and looked up, unexpectedly meeting Jiang Li's eyes. He froze momentarily. Jiang Li smiled slightly and lowered her head to continue eating. Yet this brief exchange between them didn't escape others' notice.

Jiang Yuanbai frowned slightly, Ye Mingyu felt a surge of delight, while Jiang Yuyan's expression instantly dimmed.

Jiang Youyao remarked, "Second Sister and Cousin Ye seem quite close—truly enviable. Meeting every few days shows genuine deep affection."

"Third Girl," Old Madam Jiang said calmly, "if you're feeling unwell, your maid can escort you back."

Jiang Youyao stared at Old Madam Jiang in disbelief. Normally she could tolerate it, but even in front of outsiders, Old Madam Jiang showed no mercy! She simply couldn't stand Jiang Li, nor how Jiang Yuanbai and the Old Madam fawned over Ye Shijie. Those unaware might think Ye Shijie was someone remarkable, when he was merely a commoner from a merchant family who'd lucked into some petty official position.

Overwhelmed by anger, she slammed her chopsticks down, all her accumulated grievances erupting at once. "Youyao is indeed unwell and won't keep everyone company any longer. I'll take my leave now!" She stormed off to her room with her maid in a fit of pique.

The atmosphere instantly turned awkward.

Jiang Yuanbai sighed. "I've spoiled this daughter of mine. Please forgive the embarrassment."

"Not at all, it's quite refreshing," Ye Mingyu said with a sarcastic smile. "Though it'd be better if such spoiling were applied equally. Our A Li's temperament clearly wasn't nurtured by indulgence—her understanding nature is heartbreaking. That's what's truly embarrassing."

Jiang Yuanbai was rendered speechless by Ye Mingyu's retort, but knowing he was in the wrong regarding Jiang Li, he didn't argue further.

The meal concluded at least superficially harmoniously. In the afternoon, Old Madam Jiang continued chatting with Ye Mingyu and his nephew, while Lu Shi and Jiang Yuanbai's brothers kept them company. As evening fell, after setting off firecrackers, it was time for everyone to return to their respective residences.

Before departing, Ye Mingyu and Ye Shijie first visited Jiang Li's courtyard for a brief conversation.

Ye Mingyu asked Jiang Li, "Why do I feel Old Madam Jiang and your father are treating you much better this time? Have they done something excessive and are now compensating you?"Ye Mingyu, though appearing brash and straightforward at first glance, was actually a man of hidden depth beneath his rough exterior. This time, he naturally noticed the warmth Old Madam Jiang and Jiang Yuanbai showed toward Jiang Li. Unaware of the truth behind Ye Zhenzhen's death, he simply assumed the Jiang family felt guilty for wrongly accusing Jiang Li of pushing Ji Shuran and causing her miscarriage years ago. Yet, he couldn't help but feel their actions seemed somewhat excessive.

If it were merely guilt over that incident, they only needed to treat Jiang Li well. But their attitude toward their former darling, Jiang Youyao, was also puzzling. Could it be that Jiang Youyao was actually an illegitimate child of the Jiang family, hence their behavior? Thinking this, Ye Mingyu turned to Jiang Li and asked, "A Li, let me ask you something—is Jiang Youyao your father's daughter?"

Jiang Li: "..."

She sighed helplessly and said, "Uncle, where did that idea come from?"

"Well, they're acting so strangely, it's hard not to speculate," Ye Mingyu muttered under his breath.

Ye Shijie also found it odd, but he didn't press further. He knew this cousin well—Jiang Li had her own mind, and if she didn't want to talk about something, no one could force her.

"Cousin Ye," Jiang Li suddenly called out just as Ye Shijie was lost in thought. Ye Shijie turned and asked, "What is it?"

Jiang Li hesitated, recalling the look Jiang Yuyan had given Ye Shijie during the meal earlier, and wondered if she should warn him. Her hesitant demeanor, however, caught Ye Mingyu's eye, and he brightened, saying, "You two talk, I'll step out for a bit." He even dragged Xue Huaiyuan away with him.

Left alone in the courtyard with Jiang Li, Ye Shijie felt inexplicably uneasy. Seeing that Ye Mingyu had left, Jiang Li decided she had no choice but to speak up. "Cousin Ye," she said, "you should be cautious around Fourth Sister."

"Jiang Fourth?" Ye Shijie was taken aback. "What do you mean?"

"I think... Fourth Sister seems to like you quite a bit," Jiang Li said, feeling a little embarrassed but reasoning that it was better to prevent trouble before it started. She poured out everything in one go. "To be honest, Fourth Sister is usually quite nice, just a bit timid. But I'm still uneasy—the third branch of the Jiang family has been acting strangely lately. At the palace banquet before, Jiang Yu'e tried to scheme against both of us. I'm always afraid they might repeat their tricks. I know it might sound like I'm being overly suspicious, but it's better to be cautious. I'm sure you don't want to get entangled in unnecessary trouble either."

Jiang Li stopped there, not elaborating further, but she trusted that with Ye Shijie's intelligence, he would understand her meaning. The third branch already had Jiang Yu'e, and though Jiang Yuyan had never done anything wrong so far, she might still be influenced—either imitating Jiang Yu'e or taking advice from Yang Shi.

For Jiang Yuyan, marrying Ye Shijie would undoubtedly be an excellent match. Not only did Ye Shijie already hold an official position with a promising future ahead, but the Ye family's wealth was also enviable. Though people often looked down on merchants for their "smell of money," being part of a merchant family meant a life free from want—something many could only dream of.

After listening to Jiang Li, Ye Shijie nodded and said, "I understand. I'll be wary of Jiang Fourth."

Jiang Li gave a slight nod, and then Ye Shijie asked, "I heard from Third Uncle that you've been spending a lot of time with Duke Su lately?"Jiang Li was taken aback. Ye Shijie was usually too busy, and every time she visited the Ye family, he was never around. Situ Jiuyue was the same, so the occasions where Ye Shijie and Ji Heng directly crossed paths were few. But that didn’t mean he was unaware.

“The Duke has helped me before,” Jiang Li replied with a smile.

Ye Shijie said, “You should be careful. Ji Heng is cunning and deep-minded. If he intends to use you to control the Jiang family, it could be troublesome.” Last time, during the Imperial Council, when Prince Cheng threatened Jiang Li, it was Ji Heng who stepped in to help her. Ye Shijie still remembered how strange he had felt at the time, wondering why Ji Heng would stand up for Jiang Li. After hearing Ye Mingyu mention it a few times, he began to develop a peculiar sense that the relationship between Jiang Li and Ji Heng was not as simple as it appeared on the surface.

Jiang Li said, “I know.”

She only said “I know,” but did not promise to heed Ye Shijie’s advice or to be cautious of Ji Heng. For some reason, Ye Shijie felt an uncomfortable sensation in his heart. Disliking this feeling, he said, “In that case, I have nothing more to say. I’ll return to the residence with Third Uncle now.” After a pause, he added, “If you encounter any trouble, you can come to the Ye residence and talk to us. Although I may not have the power and status of Duke Su, I would never harm you.”

Jiang Li curved her eyes into a smile. “Thank you, Cousin Ye.”

Her smile felt somewhat glaring in Ye Shijie’s eyes. Whether out of avoidance or something else, he immediately turned away without another word and left with Ye Mingyu.

The Ye family had all returned, taking Xue Huaiyuan with them. After setting off firecrackers, they chatted for a while longer in the Evening Phoenix Hall. Old Madam Jiang, being elderly, grew tired quickly and said she wanted to return to sleep. Only the younger generation remained in the hall. Jiang Jingrui clamored to stay up for the New Year’s vigil, but Jiang Jingyou refused, insisting on returning to rest as he needed to rise early the next morning to study. Jiang Li also had little desire to stay up—there was truly nothing to talk about. She would rather return to her courtyard to plan how to deal with Xiao Deyin.

After holding out a while longer, even Jiang Jingrui, who had earlier insisted on staying up, was nodding off from exhaustion. Lu Shi, unable to bear watching, had the servants take him back to sleep. Jiang Li stood up and said to Lu Shi, “Aunt, I’m truly tired as well. I won’t keep you company tonight and would like to rest now.”

“It’s fine if you don’t stay up,” Lu Shi replied, feeling somewhat bored herself. Whether it was because fewer people were around or for some other reason, she felt this year’s New Year celebration lacked its usual flavor. Even the previously disliked Ji Shuran now seemed somewhat endearing in retrospect—having one more person would have made it livelier. But now, no matter what, the atmosphere just couldn’t be revived.

Lu Shi smiled and said, “I’ll go rest as well. We can talk more tomorrow morning.”

In an instant, the Evening Phoenix Hall became empty and still. There was still one hour left until the arrival of the New Year. Jiang Li walked with Tong’er and the others toward the Fragrant Garden Courtyard. Tong’er murmured, “I thought returning to the residence in Yanjing City for the New Year would be much livelier. How come it feels even less so than before?”

With so many incidents happening one after another these days, who could genuinely set aside their worries and rejoice? During the day, they could still put on a brave face, but at night, melancholy inevitably set in. It was better to avoid it altogether—each retreating to their own rooms, falling asleep, and waking to a new day, ushering in the New Year.Jiang Li smiled and said, "What does it matter? Aren't you all still by my side? Besides, what does bustle have to do with us? At least now we eat better and dress warmer than in the temple hall. One must know contentment."

"Indeed," Bai Xue chimed in with a smile, "one must know contentment. When we servants were at the estate, it was lively enough, but the whole family could only share one bowl of radishes in the evening, and sometimes we even went hungry. Happiness is something you can only think about after filling your belly. It's better for a family to live well apart than to starve together."

Jiang Li smiled faintly. Though the words were plain, the reasoning was sound—this was precisely the truth. As long as one is alive, there is hope for everything.

When they returned to Fragrant Garden Courtyard, Qingfeng and Mingyue were enjoying the red cakes the kitchen had prepared for the maids. It was said that eating one would bring good fortune and freedom from worries in the new year.

Mingyue said to Jiang Li, "Miss, the largest one is on the table in your room. Remember to eat it—after you do, everything will go smoothly in the coming year."

Jiang Li couldn't help but smile as she listened to the maids chatting and laughing outside. However, when she entered the room and saw the red cake on the table, her smile faded.

The red cake took up nearly half the table—there was no way Jiang Li could finish it all. If eating this was truly required to pray for peace and smooth sailing in the coming year, she'd rather not eat it at all. She feared that if she finished it, she might not even make it to the next year in one piece.

She pushed the red cake aside and sat down at her desk. Unconsciously, her thoughts drifted to the pastries Ji Heng had made before. She wondered if the Duke's residence would prepare red cakes tonight, and if so, whether Ji Heng would be the one making them. If Ji Heng made the red cakes, they would surely be much more delicate and appealing than the one before her, and the taste would undoubtedly be superior too. If eating one could bring peace and smooth sailing, then she wouldn't mind having a red cake made by Ji Heng.

Jiang Li froze for a moment, suddenly realizing she was lost in wild fancies again. She shook her head with a wry smile. Perhaps she had spent too much time with Ye Mingyu—even her thoughts were starting to resemble his. Why was she thinking about such things out of the blue? If Ji Heng knew what was on her mind, he might very well stop helping her.

Suddenly, Jiang Li caught a glimpse of someone standing behind her. Startled, she turned around immediately and saw Zhao Ke standing there, looking at her with an innocent expression.

"What are you doing here?" Jiang Li asked in surprise. Usually, she would blow a whistle when she needed to summon Zhao Ke—he never came uninvited. And even when he did come, he would stand outside the window, never entering the room.

Zhao Ke replied, "The Duke sent me to fetch you."

"Fetch me?" Jiang Li was taken aback. "Where to?"

"To the Duke's residence," Zhao Ke answered matter-of-factly.

"Now?"

"Now."

Perfectly fine, in the middle of the night, and on New Year's Eve no less—why would she suddenly be summoned to the Duke's residence? Could it be... Jiang Li's heart sank. Could it be that something had happened to Haitang? She immediately looked at Zhao Ke with concern. "What's wrong? Has something happened to Haitang's wounds? Is she alright?"

Zhao Ke looked at her, baffled. "Miss Haitang? Miss Haitang is fine."

Hearing this, Jiang Li let out a sigh of relief. Then, puzzled, she asked, "If nothing's wrong, why am I being summoned to the Duke's residence now? Does the Duke have something important to discuss with me?"

"Important?" Zhao Ke tilted his head thoughtfully. "I suppose so. Some time ago, when Second Miss Jiang visited the residence, you promised to come and grill venison. Today, the Old General has prepared all the ingredients and is waiting for you to arrive."

Jiang Li: "..."

She was speechless for a long moment before finally saying, "Now? You want me to go to the Duke's residence to grill venison?" Is Ji Heng out of his mind?

"What's the problem?" Zhao Ke's tone, much like his master's, was so self-assured that it left no room for argument, even making one doubt if they were in the wrong. Zhao Ke continued, "The Old General has been waiting for this for a long time and finally gathered everything. Everyone is usually busy, but tonight, on New Year's Eve, everyone is present, so we can finally start grilling."

"Everyone?" Jiang Li seized on the key point in Zhao Ke's words.

"Young Master Wenren, Miss Situ, Lord Lu, Lord Kong, the Old General..." Zhao Ke listed. "You've met them all last time."Last time, it was indeed all people she had met before. That same group had presumptuously claimed she agreed to help roast venison, and now they were turning that presumption into reality.

"The Duke said if Second Miss Jiang wishes to repay him, now is the opportunity," Zhao Ke delivered the final line.

Jiang Li: "...I'll go."

...

Escaping from the Jiang residence without Ji Heng by her side was no easy feat.

Though Zhao Ke had arranged everything in advance, Jiang Li still felt uneasy as she slipped out through the back door. Fortunately, Ji Heng's black sedan chair was already waiting outside. Seeing no one around, Jiang Li boarded it. Only after settling inside did she feel somewhat improper. This was Ji Heng's sedan chair, likely used exclusively by him alone. Sitting in it now evoked an inexplicable sense of intimacy.

If anyone were to see this, she could never clear her name even if she jumped into the Yellow River.

But since she had already come out, there was no need to dwell on such matters. After all, no one would know. Once tonight passed, it would remain a secret. Since Ji Heng had sent the sedan chair, he clearly didn't mind either.

With this thought, Jiang Li became composed and natural again.

Yet... she remained speechless. On such an important New Year's Eve, being taken out of her residence in a sedan chair to roast venison at someone else's mansion was truly outrageous. Though she wasn't actually the daughter of a Grand Secretary and lacked the haughtiness of noble ladies, this would be unusual even for common girls.

Why was this happening? Or perhaps those around Ji Heng—whether Wenren Yao, Lu Ji, or Old General Ji and Situ Jiuyue—were all as willful and reckless as Ji Heng himself. When they wanted something, they would stop at nothing to achieve it. After all, birds of a feather flock together—she should have realized this earlier.

With neither Tong'er nor Bai Xue by her side, Jiang Li could only sit alone in the sedan chair, lost in wild thoughts. The sedan thoughtfully provided hot tea and pastries, just as it would when Ji Heng was present, but Jiang Li had no appetite for even a bite.

Carrying these bewildering thoughts, the sedan chair finally arrived at the Duke's mansion.

As it was New Year's Eve, the streets were largely empty. Like tired birds returning to their nests, everyone hoped to spend this annual reunion day with family, welcoming the new year together.

The Duke's mansion was no exception. The red lanterns under the eaves had unknowingly doubled since her last visit. And because Ji Heng adored extravagance, the lanterns were made of fine red silk, their flickering candlelight casting delicate glimmers. The tassels hanging beneath the lanterns were crafted from yellow crystal stones. In the snowy night, the row of lanterns beneath the main gate was so magnificent it made one pause in admiration.

Zhao Ke said, "Second Miss Jiang, please."

Only then did Jiang Li withdraw her gaze and step through the main gate of the Duke's mansion.The servants of the Duke's residence were rather peculiar. Unlike the Jiang residence, where servants could be seen everywhere, each one seemingly polite and following rules meticulously, the attendants here were all engrossed in their own tasks and did not bow when encountering others. However, Jiang Li surmised this was because the masters of the Duke's residence were Ji Heng and Old General Ji—the servants would only pay respects to this grandfather and grandson pair. As for others, in the eyes of these servants, they were not worth the extra effort.

The servants were as haughty as their masters, Jiang Li thought to herself.

The vast Duke's residence also felt much warmer than the outside, perhaps due to the underfloor heating system. Or maybe it was the dazzling array of vibrant colors that brought a sense of spring to one's eyes and warmth to the heart. Zhao Ke led Jiang Li through the front hall, across the long corridor, and into the backyard, stopping at the courtyard entrance, saying, "We're here."

Jiang Li looked up.

Along the way, aside from the hanging lanterns, the rooms in the Duke's residence were unlit, enveloped in profound silence as if everyone had fallen asleep. Yet, upon entering this courtyard, it was like stepping into a new world—suddenly, everything was brilliantly illuminated.

A cleared space in the snow held a neatly stacked pile of firewood, the flames burning fiercely, casting the entire snowy courtyard in a reddish glow. Sparks flew out like stars falling to the ground, vanishing in an instant but leaving behind their warmth.

The mingling voices made everything lively. In an instant, the originally elegant and exquisite mansion suddenly brimmed with boundless vitality. Every person here seemed vividly alive.

Jiang Li took a few steps forward and saw Situ Jiuyue standing by the fire, frowning as if deep in thought. Only then did Jiang Li clearly notice a pile of sharply whittled bamboo skewers beside the fire—they had indeed prepared everything as promised.

Jiang Li didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

Wenren Yao approached Situ Jiuyue, seemingly asking her something, but Situ Jiuyue appeared disinterested. Kong Liu and Old General Ji, clad in thin single-layered garments, were gesturing as if about to spar. Lu Ji stood far off to the side; as a refined scholar, he likely felt somewhat alienated by activities like roasting venison. He kept his distance from the fresh venison set aside, as if avoiding it altogether. Haitang, however, was quiet. Now residing in the Duke's residence and connected to Jiang Li, she was present tonight, perhaps for that reason. She sat to the side, her face veiled, lost in thought.

Jiang Li found it all rather novel—this Duke's residence was entirely different from what she had imagined. In truth, she had sensed this during her last visit. It was hard to believe that Ji Heng, with his profound scheming, mercurial temper, and sharp clarity, lived in such an atmosphere. She had assumed his environment would be filled with strife, intrigue, and shadowy dealings.

But then again, not everything is as it appears on the surface. What she saw before her might also be superficial—she hadn't truly stepped inside yet. After all, she didn't genuinely understand Ji Heng.

Just as she was thinking this, Zhao Ke suddenly said, "The Lord has arrived."

Jiang Li turned to follow Zhao Ke's gaze.In the snowy night, his crimson robe stood out strikingly. Jiang Li had always found it odd—men across the realm avoided wearing red, as it was widely considered a color favored by women. Yet Ji Heng insisted on wearing it, not only wearing it but wearing it exquisitely. There wasn't the slightest hint of effeminacy about him, though he was extraordinarily beautiful—a cold, detached beauty, much like his golden filigree folding fan adorned with lavish peonies. No matter how beautiful, it remained a lethal weapon.

He slowly walked up to Jiang Li.

Jiang Li looked at him and smiled. "Duke."

"If you don’t feel like smiling, then don’t," he said. "I know you didn’t want to come."

Jiang Li: "...That’s not true."

"When it comes to saying one thing and meaning another, no one does it better than women." His beautiful eyes, gleaming like gemstones in the night, made one want to stare endlessly. "Though you’re not yet a woman... you’re already among the best at it."

"If that counts as praise from the Duke, then I’ll accept it." Jiang Li replied calmly. "But tonight, it wasn’t actually the Duke who invited me, was it? I suspect it was Old General Ji’s idea, and the Duke, unable to refuse, had Zhao Ke bring me here?"

Ji Heng said, "Since you know, you shouldn’t blame me."

"I’m not blaming the Duke." Jiang Li chuckled softly. She had come to understand Old General Ji’s temperament all too well. The mercurial Ji Heng was utterly helpless before the old general—a rather amusing thought.

"Don’t find it amusing," Ji Heng said, smiling at her. "You’ll understand soon enough."

Jiang Li’s smile vanished abruptly. Just as she was about to speak, Wenren Yao glanced over and suddenly noticed their presence. He called out, "Second Miss Jiang, A-Heng, why didn’t you say anything when you arrived? Hurry over—we’ve been waiting just for the two of you!"

Ji Heng’s smile sharpened instantly, and the look he directed at Wenren Yao sent a chill down Jiang Li’s spine. She couldn’t help but wonder what gave Wenren Yao such nerve, allowing him to disregard any glare from Ji Heng?

Tsk, perhaps this was the brilliance of their "Spirit Immortal Sect"!

Jiang Li and Ji Heng walked toward the group. The bonfire had grown stronger than before, and as they drew closer, they could hear the crackling of sparks, vivid and lively in the night.

"Jiang girl!" Old General Ji’s voice boomed with vigor. "Everything’s ready for you! You know how to grill venison, don’t you? Come on!"

The old man was cut from the same cloth as Ji Heng—as if others were born to obey his every word. Perhaps it was a commander’s affliction: issuing orders, expecting nothing but compliance. Resigned, Jiang Li approached and first inspected the venison. The deer must have been freshly hunted; its hide had been cleanly removed, though the meat hadn’t been meticulously portioned, lying in a large piece within a silver basin.

Jiang Li asked, "Was this newly hunted?"

"Of course." Old General Ji lifted his head proudly. "I hunted it myself—waited a full hour to track this one down!"

Jiang Li: "...The old general truly possesses the vigor of youth."The venison was ready, the bamboo skewers were ready, and the seasonings were all prepared. Old General Ji had even managed to find a string of birds from who-knows-where, asking Jiang Li to prepare beggar's-style roasted birds. Of course, with so many people present, they couldn't just eat grilled venison. Bamboo mats had already been laid out over the snow-covered ground, with padded mats beneath them and warm fur blankets spread on top.

On the bamboo mats stood long tables, already laden with exquisite pastries and snacks, along with fine wine. There were two types: delicate celadon-glazed wine pots and large earthenware jars that appeared to have been recently unearthed, still bearing traces of mud.

"This is their New Year's Eve feast," the thought surfaced in Jiang Li's mind.

She had imagined the Duke's mansion's New Year's Eve dinner would either be a lonely affair with just the grandfather and grandson facing a table full of delicacies—since there were no other family members—or it would be like the Jiang family's celebrations, entertaining guests while everyone harbored their own hidden agendas, lively but devoid of warmth.

But this Duke's mansion was different. There were no clinking glasses in forced toasts, no people exchanging drinks with ulterior motives. Everyone present was acquainted; even the usually aloof wore smiles, and those burdened with heavy thoughts shed their restraints. Free from complicated entanglements, they resembled the most ordinary of families.

Her initial reluctance and displeasure seemed to have quietly evaporated without her even noticing.

[Author's note: Striving for featured status today, updating ten thousand words with tears T▽T]

(End of Chapter)