The Double

Chapter 72: The Love for Beauty

If "Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute" were likened to a theatrical performance, the audience might feel anger or fear due to the performer, or experience sudden joy and sorrow from the music itself—ultimately, their emotions were being pulled along by an external force. Amidst everyone being deeply immersed in the performance, suddenly witnessing someone who remained clear-headed was enough to evoke astonishment.

Jiang Li stared into those beautiful phoenix eyes, unable to decipher the emotions contained within them. She only felt a chill in her heart, as if she had nearly been seen through.

That capriciously beautiful Duke Su was scrutinizing her, perhaps even attempting to uncover her secrets.

Jiang Li lowered her gaze, concealing the myriad emotions within her, and gracefully bowed to the audience below the stage. She had finished playing.

Everyone stared at her in stunned silence.

In an instant, all the mockery, sneers, disdain, and even curses came to an abrupt halt. If Jiang Li’s previous victory among the top three noble families had failed to convince everyone because it wasn’t conducted publicly, now even her doubters had nothing to say.

The one playing the zither on stage was indeed the genuine Second Miss Jiang.

Among the examiners, the cheerful little old man Mian Ju was the first to exclaim, "Little girl, who taught you to play the zither?"

Calling the daughter of the Grand Secretary "little girl" was rather abrupt. However, this man was Hongxiao Emperor’s favorite court musician, and even Jiang Yuanbai had to show him some respect, so no one dared to comment.

Mian Ju’s question snapped everyone back to reality. Indeed, everyone had witnessed Jiang Li’s zither skills. Her fingering was so adept that it seemed unlikely she was a beginner. Judging by her demeanor, she must have studied for many years. Yet, there were no zither masters in the temple nunnery. Could it be that some reclusive expert had taught her?

Seeing the sparkle in Mian Ju’s eyes, Jiang Li knew exactly what he was thinking and decided to go along with it. "My master has already traveled far away..."

Ah, so she had been guided by a master!

Mian Ju could barely restrain himself from rushing forward, firing off questions in rapid succession: "What is your master’s name? Where does he live? Where did he go? How can I find him?"

Jiang Li gave him an apologetic look and replied vaguely, "This student does not know..."

Upon hearing this, Mian Ju first grew anxious, then seemed to recall something and sighed deeply. "Never mind, never mind. These masters seldom wish to reveal their whereabouts. They live as free as the wind—how could they be burdened by worldly affairs?" He looked at Jiang Li with a hint of envy and said, "You, young lady, are quite fortunate to receive guidance from such a master at such a tender age. You’ll benefit from it for the rest of your life. Why don’t I have such luck? Ah!"

Watching him sigh and lament, Jiang Li felt both amused and exasperated. Nevertheless, Mian Ju’s words had finally dispelled the doubts in others’ minds.

The people around began to chatter among themselves.

"So Second Miss Jiang was taught by a master—no wonder she plays so well! I’d say she’s even more skilled than Third Miss Jiang earlier?"

"Of course! Didn’t Master Mian Ju say so? Anyone he calls a master must be extraordinary. How could anyone compare to Second Miss Jiang, who learned from such a master?"

"Second Miss Jiang is truly lucky. Perhaps she could even become a zither master in the future. Look at Master Mian Ju’s expression—he’s clearly taken a liking to her talent."

"Pah! Why would she give up being the esteemed daughter of the Grand Secretary to become a zither master? There’s nothing wrong with Second Miss Jiang’s judgment."The discussions around him had shifted from one extreme to another in an instant. Ye Shijie was momentarily stunned by this abrupt change, but after thinking it through, he couldn't help but chuckle wryly.

At first, he had been deeply worried for Jiang Li, yet he had a faint feeling that she might have her own way of handling things. That once snobbish, merchant-disdaining young lady had grown up, transforming into someone entirely different from her past self. The most obvious change was that she had become far more intelligent than before.

Jiang Yuanbai listened to his colleagues praising Jiang Li, his emotions tangled and complex. On one hand, no matter what, it pleased him to see his daughter earn others' admiration. On the other hand, watching Jiang Youyao's aggrieved expression pained him.

After all, Jiang Youyao was the beloved youngest daughter he had cradled in his palms since childhood. Music had always been her forte, and now that Jiang Li had outshone her, Jiang Youyao must be deeply upset and disappointed.

In truth, Jiang Youyao's heart was filled more with jealousy than sorrow, more with hatred than disappointment. The moment Jiang Li began playing "Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute," Jiang Youyao knew that the day's events were likely to be thrown into chaos because of Jiang Li once again. She glanced at Ji Shuran and saw her grave expression, which stirred a faint panic within her.

Following the panic came a profound sense of shame.

Being outdone by Jiang Li—by someone who had been cast aside in a nunnery and left with nothing—was more unbearable to Jiang Youyao than death itself. Especially when she heard the surrounding praises for Jiang Li's musical skill, it felt like a harsh slap across her face.

If Jiang Li's performance was praised so highly, then what did that make her?

Just as Jiang Youyao was about to lose control of her expression, Ji Shuran, seated beside her, gently patted her hand and said, "Don't panic. It's not over yet. We may not lose."

Hearing Ji Shuran's words, Jiang Youyao gradually calmed down. Though resentment still simmered within her, she managed to maintain her composure.

Jiang Yu'e observed Jiang Youyao's shifting expressions closely. While she wondered what Ji Shuran had said, she was even more puzzled by how Jiang Li had become so exceptionally skilled in music.

She had assumed that Jiang Li, after returning to the estate, would be a pitiful creature even worse off than herself... Yet time and again, reality proved that Jiang Li could still trample over her.

Jiang Yu'e glared resentfully at Jiang Li, unsure whether her bitterness stemmed from her father's status as an illegitimate child or from her own inability to measure up to Jiang Li.

At this moment, Meng Hongjin was also deeply unsettled. Whenever Jiang Li received any praise, people would cast sympathetic glances her way, as if reminding her not to forget the bet she had made. Seeing Meng Youde's grim expression, Meng Hongjin grew increasingly fearful. If Jiang Li truly topped all the examinations at Mingyi Hall, she would have to remove her outer garment at the entrance of the Imperial College, kneel before Jiang Li, and apologize.

If that happened, she would become the laughingstock of all Yanjing City, bringing shame upon the Meng family. Her father would never forgive her.

A chill ran down Meng Hongjin's spine, as if she had already glimpsed that terrifying future.

It won't happen, she comforted herself. Jiang Youyao also performed well. Jiang Li might not necessarily take first place. It won't happen...

Jiang Li stepped down from the stage. Instead of returning to the Jiang family's side, she walked toward Liu Xu, who was beckoning to her.Liu Xu excitedly pulled her down to sit. This was the first time Jiang Li had seen this girl display so much emotion. Liu Xu said, "Jiang Li, your performance of 'Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute' just now was truly remarkable! No wonder you said before taking the stage that you would play something no one has performed before. This is indeed the first time 'Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute' has been played in the examination hall. I think you performed much better than Jiang Youyao. Even someone with average musical skills like me could feel the artistic conception in your music. Judging by what you called 'the heart of the qin,' the top position in this round undoubtedly belongs to you!"

She spoke with great confidence, as if she were the examiner herself.

Jiang Li smiled faintly. "That may not necessarily be the case." She glanced toward the stage.

On the examination platform, Mian Ju said to Shi Yan, "Little Yanyan, what did you think of the performance by that young lady from the Jiang family just now?"

"Little Yanyan"—Music Official Shi Yan maintained a stern expression and offered no comment on the nickname Mian Ju had given him, simply saying, "Acceptable.Everyone knew that Music Official Shi Yan was the most arrogant and picky. Most people received evaluations from him like "too unpleasant to hear," "dreadful," or "not good." To receive an "acceptable" meant that Shi Yan already recognized this person's ability.

Mian Ju, clearly very familiar with Shi Yan's temperament, immediately clapped his hands and said, "I knew Little Yanyan would share my opinion! Experts like us think alike!" He then turned to Jinghong Xianzi and Xiao Deyin and asked, "What do the Fairy and Master Xiao think?"

Jinghong Xianzi felt somewhat troubled.

She had accepted silver from Ji Shuran. "Bribing the examiner" was something that had never happened before in Mingyi Hall. Jinghong Xianzi had agreed to it because she originally thought that in the current Mingyi Hall, no one could rival Jiang Youyao in musical skill. Even by her own ability, Jiang Youyao could have won the top position. The silver Ji Shuran gave her was said to be compensation for instructing Jiang Youyao, but the amount was far too generous.

So Jinghong Xianzi accepted it, thinking it was just facilitating what would naturally happen anyway. After all, Jiang Youyao would have won the top position regardless, so she might as well do the Ji family a favor. Moreover, Jiang Youyao was somewhat her disciple, so both publicly and privately, she ought to favor Jiang Youyao.

What should have been a settled matter was unexpectedly disrupted by Jiang Li's sudden appearance. To be fair, Jiang Li's musical skill surpassed Jiang Youyao's. Especially considering Jiang Li's comprehension of "the heart of the qin" at just fifteen years old—such talent was exceptionally rare at present.

Jinghong Xianzi appreciated talent and had her pride, but having long frequented entertainment quarters, even as a chaste performer, she understood social niceties. While Jiang Li was undoubtedly excellent, she had accepted Ji Shuran's silver. Of Jiang Yuanbai's two legitimate daughters, Jiang Li had been sent away at seven, while Jiang Youyao had grown up by Jiang Yuanbai's side. Jiang Youyao was more favored; she had Ji Shuran and the Ji family behind her, whereas Jiang Li had nothing...

"Jiang Li is quite good, on par with Youyao," Jinghong Xianzi said after long deliberation.

Unexpectedly, upon hearing this, Mian Ju laughed outright and said, "Fairy, are you perhaps showing favoritism because Jiang Youyao is your disciple? I think that young lady Jiang Li has far greater attainment than Jiang Youyao. Not to mention that 'Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute' is more difficult than 'Wild Geese Descending on the Sandbank,' in terms of comprehending artistic conception, Jiang Youyao is still outside the gate, while young lady Jiang Li has already stepped inside. Fairy, how have you become so worldly? In a few more years, I fear you might even lose your own 'heart of the qin'!"The words were spoken with extreme discourtesy, almost showing no respect for Jinghong Xianzi. Since her debut as a courtesan at Gazing Immortal Pavilion, Jinghong Xianzi had always been praised by scholars and literati. When had she ever been so bluntly rebuked? Her face flushed crimson with shame and anger.

"Enough, what does Mr. Xiao think?" Mian Ju then asked Xiao Deyin.

Xiao Deyin pondered for a moment before unexpectedly stating, "I also believe Jiang Li and Jiang Youyao are on par with each other."

This meant he did not acknowledge Jiang Li as superior to Jiang Youyao.

Mian Ju immediately sneered coldly, his gaze toward Xiao Deyin shifting as he asked, "Has Mr. Xiao also taken Jiang Youyao as a disciple? Why is everyone speaking against their conscience?"

Xiao Deyin replied, "Not exactly. While Jiang Li's fingering technique is excellent, the piece 'Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute' carries too much sorrow and resentment, lacking the expansive artistic conception of 'Wild Geese Descending on the Sandbank.'The fingering techniques of both pieces are comparable, but the true challenge lies in conveying the artistic conception. After all, the composer's grief and resentment are difficult for ordinary people to empathize with. Personally, I dislike mournful tunes. The heart of the qin reflects the human heart—I prefer open and vast artistic conception."

"What nonsense!" Mian Ju was infuriated by Xiao Deyin's words and retorted with a scornful laugh, "Today I learned that the heart of the qin can be ranked. Forgive my bluntness, Mr. Xiao, but with such a reputation-seeking heart, I'm afraid you no longer deserve the title of Yanjing's top female qin master. Not to mention Jinghong Xianzi, even the late Top Scholar's Wife, Lady Xue Fangfei, was better than you. In a few years, I suspect even that young girl from the Jiang family, Jiang Li, will far surpass you!"

These words were utterly disrespectful, causing Xiao Deyin's expression to darken with rage.

She exclaimed, "Mr. Mian Ju, watch your words! Xue Fangfei had a tarnished character—how dare you compare me to her?"

"As if Mr. Xiao's own character is so impeccable," Mian Ju mocked.

"You!"

Before the examination had concluded, the two judges were already on the verge of arguing on stage. Though Mian Ju appeared easygoing, he was an extremely stubborn old man. Jinghong Xianzi hurriedly stepped in to mediate, smiling as she said, "Why must you two quarrel? There are other students yet to perform. Let them all come on stage first—if there happens to be someone with even greater qin skills, then there will be no need for such a difficult choice."

Mian Ju snorted coldly and finally relented. However, everyone present knew well that among the remaining students, it was unlikely anyone would surpass Jiang Li and Jiang Youyao.

A dispute was inevitable in the end.

Jiang Li, watching from the stage, observed the argument between Mian Ju and Xiao Deyin. Though she couldn't hear their exact words, she could guess it concerned her and Jiang Youyao's qin skills. Mian Ju likely favored her, as before entering the palace, he had been an ordinary folk musician. The rustic tune Jiang Li played before her qin performance must have resonated with his temperament.

As for Xiao Deyin, in the past, Jiang Li would have trusted her to side with her, but now... it was uncertain.

Zhou Yanbang stared intently at Jiang Li, who stood beside Liu Xu. Once again, Jiang Li's qin skills had stunned the entire audience, reinforcing his determination to break off his engagement with Jiang Youyao and be with Jiang Li. Jiang Li was originally his fiancée—if not for a twist of fate, they might already be married.

Such a woman was meant to be his!Zhou Yanbang thought that Jiang Li had likely shed her reputation as a "good-for-nothing" through her own abilities by now. With that, his parents' opposition would surely not be as vehement. Although she bore the stigma of poisoning her stepmother, Marquis Ningyuan had always doted on him and would likely compromise. The only drawback was that this would let Jiang Youyao down. At this thought, Zhou Yanbang felt a pang of guilt and resolved to compensate her in other ways.

As Zhou Yanbang pondered Jiang Li, not far from him, Shen Yurong’s gaze grew distant and lost.

While Second Miss Jiang played the zither on stage, it inexplicably reminded him of his late wife. Xue Fangfei had also been exceptionally skilled in the zither. Back in Tongxiang, Xiangyang, she often played, and he would frequently stand outside the Xue residence, beneath the wall, listening to the melodies and laughter of the beauty within.

Later, when Xue Fangfei came to Yanjing, she stopped playing the zither. He had become the top scholar and was busy with social engagements, and the memory of Xue Fangfei’s zither melodies gradually faded. Yet today, under the strains of Second Miss Jiang’s music, he inexplicably seemed to see his deceased wife again.

Although Xue Fangfei would never have played such a sorrowful tune, and although Xue Fangfei and Jiang Li were two entirely different people...

Shen Yurong’s unusual demeanor did not escape Princess Yongning, who sat beside Prince Cheng. Though her lips still curved in a smile, a flicker of venom flashed in her eyes. Shen Yurong’s expression clearly indicated he was thinking of Xue Fangfei again.

The thought that Shen Yurong still cherished memories of Xue Fangfei drove Princess Yongning mad with jealousy, and she even began to resent Jiang Li on stage. They all deserved to die! Why did Jiang Li have to resemble that wretched woman of all people!

Unaware of the thoughts swirling around her, Jiang Li was preoccupied with her own concerns. She wondered whether Duke Su, Ji Heng, had noticed something amiss. His gaze made her profoundly uneasy—could there be some deeper meaning? Aside from their encounter at Qingcheng Mountain, she and Ji Heng had no other interactions. Even if he remembered her, it was only a fleeting encounter.

Surely... it meant nothing.

Jiang Li resolved that if Ji Heng exposed her and revealed her scheming against Jing An Shitai at Qingcheng Mountain, she would stubbornly deny it, as there was no other evidence anyway.

Lost in these thoughts, she paid little attention as the students took the stage for the examination one by one. Liu Xu performed, Jiang Yuyan played, and Jiang Yu'e completed her piece. By the time the last female student finished, the zither examination had concluded, and it was already afternoon.

With Jiang Youyao—or rather, with Jiang Li’s outstanding performance setting the standard—the others’ zither playing seemed bland and uninspired, as if they were merely going through the motions, or hadn’t even mastered the fingering techniques. The gap was simply too vast. Even those unfamiliar with the zither could instantly discern the difference in skill.

The results of the zither examination were to be announced immediately. At this moment, everyone’s attention was focused solely on Jiang Li and Jiang Youyao.

Jiang Youyao stood below the stage, gripping Ji Shuran’s hand tightly. Despite her efforts, she couldn’t suppress her nervousness.

If she were to lose to Jiang Li in her most proficient skill... Jiang Youyao dared not imagine how Zhou Yanbang would view her if he witnessed it!Lu Shi of the second branch noticed Jiang Youyao's diminished confidence and immediately said to Ji Shuran with a smile, "Sister-in-law, you're truly fortunate to have raised two such brilliant daughters. Whether Youyao or Li Yatou wins the top honor, it'll be a victory for your branch. You must be delighted—they truly take after their father."

Though inwardly unsettled, Ji Shuran showed no trace of irritation at Lu Shi's provoking words and replied lightly, "Naturally. I actually think Li'er performed better." She even took the initiative to praise Jiang Li.

Jiang Yu'e sneered inwardly, certain that her aunt must despise Jiang Li to the core. Still, Jiang Yu'e would rather see Jiang Youyao win than Jiang Li claim first place. After all, Jiang Li had nothing—how could someone with nothing compete against someone who had everything? She ought to submit obediently and beg for mercy, just as Jiang Yu'e herself did.

The five judges were deliberating.

While there were no disputes over the other students, when it came to Jiang Li and Jiang Youyao, disagreements arose.

Jinghong Xianzi and Xiao Deyin believed Jiang Youyao should take first place, whereas Mian Ju and Shi Yan insisted Jiang Li deserved the top honor. The two sides were deadlocked, neither willing to yield.

"Anyone with eyes can see Jiang Li is clearly superior. What is wrong with you?" Mian Ju lamented in frustration. "Can't you hear the difference?"

"Master Mian Ju," Xiao Deyin responded, "Everyone is entitled to their opinion. Just as we cannot sway yours, you should not impose yours upon us."

Jinghong Xianzi felt a flicker of surprise.

She herself had accepted Ji Shuran's silver and, having personally taught Jiang Youyao, felt compelled to support her. But to those who understood music, Jiang Li's skill was undeniably superior to Jiang Youyao's—surely Xiao Deyin could hear that too.

Why then would Xiao Deyin reject Jiang Li in favor of Jiang Youyao? Could she have also accepted Ji Shuran's bribe? That seemed impossible. Xiao Deyin lived comfortably as a teacher at Mingyi Hall and had even declined an offer to become a court musician, proving she wasn't swayed by wealth or status. It couldn't be about money.

Jinghong Xianzi was baffled.

Yet Xiao Deyin remained uncharacteristically stubborn.

Mian Ju refused to back down, and Shi Yan remained silent. After a moment's hesitation, Jinghong Xianzi suggested, "Perhaps we could have two joint winners?"

Joint winners had occurred in past examinations when two candidates were truly evenly matched and a decision was too difficult to make.

Mian Ju scoffed, "But Jiang Li was clearly much better than Jiang Youyao!" He would not accept this compromise.

With neither side willing to concede, the atmosphere grew tense.

The prolonged delay in announcing the results gradually drew the attention of everyone in the examination hall.

"What's going on? Why haven't they announced the rankings yet?"

"I saw Master Mian Ju pointing at Second Miss Jiang and Third Miss Jiang earlier. Is it that hard to decide?"

"Well, they are equally matched, but I prefer Third Miss Jiang. She's so beautiful! She's always won first place in music before."

"I prefer Second Miss Jiang. She played 'Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute'—no one has ever performed that piece before."Seeing the prolonged delay in announcing the results, Jiang Youyao gradually felt a glimmer of hope rekindle within her. Even sharing the top honor would be more bearable than being outright surpassed by Jiang Li.

"We can't possibly stay here until nightfall, can we?" Mian Ju grew somewhat impatient. "They must give us a definitive answer."

"But there's no other way at the moment." Jinghong Xianzi gave a bitter smile. She and Xiao Deyin were absolutely unwilling to compromise, and now it seemed Mian Ju and Shi Yan shared the same stance as them.

They were caught between a rock and a hard place.

Just then, a voice suddenly spoke up, carrying a lazy yet profound tone, asking, "What, still not finished?"

Turning around, they saw it was Duke Su, Ji Heng, who had been dozing off earlier. Unnoticed by anyone, he had woken up and was now toying with his folding fan, watching them with an amused smile.

Even Jinghong Xianzi, who was already a married woman, found herself momentarily dazed by Ji Heng's smile. Collecting herself, she apologized, "We've reached an impasse..."

But Mian Ju's eyes lit up as if struck by an idea. He said to Ji Heng, "Duke, you've woken up just in time. Little Yan and I believe Jiang Li should take first place, while Xianzi and Master Xiao insist Jiang Youyao deserves the top spot. Neither side can convince the other. Since you're awake now and you're also an examiner today, why don't you tell us which side you're on?"

Jinghong Xianzi was both amused and exasperated.

Of all people, Mian Ju had to pick Duke Su. Though no one knew why Duke Su had become an examiner for the qin music category, it was clear to everyone present that he had been dozing off since the event began. He might have woken once or twice midway, but soon lost interest and closed his eyes again.

From the evaluation of the first student onward, Ji Heng hadn't uttered a single word, as if he were merely here for amusement. So, the four of them had tacitly agreed not to bother him and proceeded to decide the results for the others on their own. Even if they did involve Ji Heng, he wasn't a qin master—how could he possibly understand qin music?

Yet now, Mian Ju was asking this duke, who could barely keep his eyelids open, to determine the final outcome. Whether Jiang Li or Jiang Youyao should win first place—Jinghong Xianzi even doubted whether Duke Su could tell who was Jiang Youyao and who was Jiang Li. To judge without seriously listening to their qin performances was pure nonsense.

Most importantly, Duke Su's attitude made it clear he disdained involving himself in such matters. Who knew if he would even deign to speak? He probably couldn't be bothered to say more than a word.

But Mian Ju stared intently at Ji Heng, his eyes gleaming.

Ji Heng glanced at the red paper before him, his gaze lingering on the wooden plaques bearing the names "Jiang Li" and "Jiang Youyao." He murmured softly, "Jiang Li..."

"See! Did you hear that? Duke Su has excellent judgment—he's already decided on Jiang Li!" Mian Ju was so thrilled he nearly jumped for joy.

"Master Mian Ju, please remain calm," Xiao Deyin said coolly. "The Duke hasn't finished speaking."

Xiao Deyin thought to himself that Duke Su had no particular fondness for the qin; his passion was for opera. Since he hadn't been paying attention today, he certainly wouldn't choose based on musical skill. However, one of the Duke's known preferences was his appreciation for beautiful women. Jiang Youyao was a stunning beauty... But then Xiao Deyin's heart sank abruptly—come to think of it, Second Miss Jiang, Jiang Li, wasn't unattractive either!

He turned to look at Jiang Li.

Jiang Li was tilting her head, speaking quietly to Liu Xu beside her. Her profile appeared exceptionally elegant and peerlessly lovely. Her light green dress, reminiscent of spring, accentuated her slender and graceful figure, and one could almost catch the fragrance from her hair.

Jiang Youyao was indeed beautiful, but Jiang Li was in no way inferior!As she was lost in thought, she saw the handsome young man in red suddenly curl his lips into a smile. Holding a folding fan, he casually pointed in a random direction and said indifferently, "Her, then."

Everyone quickly followed his gesture!

The golden folding fan was as thin as a cicada's wing, appearing as nothing more than a narrow strip when closed. The wooden plaque it pointed to bore only two stark characters:

Jiang Li!

Ji Heng had chosen Jiang Li.

Jinghong Xianzi felt a wave of relief wash over her, though she couldn't quite explain why. Having accepted Ji Shuran's silver, she had indeed helped Jiang Youyao, but when Duke Su himself spoke, it was beyond her control. And Jiang Li had undeniably earned her place.

Xiao Deyin, however, stubbornly insisted, "Your Grace, please do not jest. The examination is no trivial matter..." Her words caught in her throat as Ji Heng shot her a glance.

That glance was cold, tinged with mockery, as if he had seen straight through the secrets in her heart. It sent a chill down her spine, rendering her speechless.

Mian Ju acted decisively, wielding his brush to inscribe Jiang Li's name at the top of the red honor roll.

The matter was settled!

Xiao Deyin watched helplessly as Jiang Li claimed the top spot on the red honor roll, with no room for reversal. Duke Su, Ji Heng, let out a soft chuckle, rose to his feet, and made as if to leave, seemingly unwilling to linger any longer.

Before departing, his gaze drifted almost imperceptibly toward Jiang Li.

Jiang Li was also staring at Ji Heng, still pondering his motives. Caught off guard by his parting glance, she was momentarily stunned, thinking to herself that this man truly lived up to the epithet "unpredictable." It was impossible to guess what went on in his mind.

But was he really leaving now?

While still in a daze, a young boy with a red headband began reading the finalized honor roll aloud, starting from the bottom. Liu Xu ranked in the middle, while Jiang Yuyan and Jiang Yu'e fared even worse. Meng Hongjin, however, managed to secure sixth place. As the names climbed higher, Jiang Youyao grew increasingly tense.

Could she claim the top spot?

The boy with the red headband called out her name: "Jiang Youyao, second class—"

Jiang Youyao felt her mind go blank, her legs giving way beneath her. She nearly collapsed, saved only by Ji Shuran's steadying hand. Once she regained her footing, she trembled faintly, despairingly awaiting the final name, her heart screaming in silent protest.

But fate was not on her side.

"First class, Jiang Li!"

Two crisp, decisive syllables shattered Jiang Youyao's unrealistic fantasies, striking her chest like a sharp blade. Meng Hongjin, too, felt the sting.

Meng Hongjin shook her head, pinching herself hard as if to determine whether this was a dream or reality. The sharp pain in her hand confirmed it was all too real.

Including the top three categories, Jiang Li had now claimed four first-place honors.

If this continued, she would lose the wager, becoming the laughingstock of all Yanjing City at the gates of the Imperial College. She was doomed to fail!

For a moment, this thought consumed Meng Hongjin's mind.

From afar, Ye Shijie breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing Jiang Li take the top spot felt both unbelievable and entirely fitting. Unbeknownst to even himself, a smile had crept onto his lips when he heard Jiang Li declared first class.

She had truly triumphed.Amidst Liu Xu's repeated congratulations, Jiang Li's smile remained gentle, showing little excitement. In truth, using her knowledge to participate in Mingyi Hall's examination felt like bullying these young students. Still, watching the bustling crowd on the examination grounds, she felt a faint flicker of joy.

This victory had earned her a modest reputation, making her future path slightly smoother.

Jiang Li turned to look for Ji Heng, but only caught a glimpse of a red-clad figure disappearing into the twilight at the examination grounds' entrance.

Never mind, she thought. Perhaps she was overthinking. Duke Su had no ties to the Jiang family—why would he pay attention to an insignificant girl like her? It was likely a mere coincidence, a momentary curiosity, much like watching actors perform a new play.

With this realization, she felt at ease.

Liu Xu, more thrilled than if she had won first place herself, exclaimed, "Jiang Li, you're number one! Did you hear?"

"I heard," Jiang Li replied with a smile.

"Why don't you seem excited at all?" Liu Xu asked suspiciously. "Aren't you happy?"

"How could I not be?" Jiang Li said. "It's just that I'm worried about the upcoming equestrian and archery tests."

"Oh, right," Liu Xu recalled. "Aside from the daughters of military families, most girls in our school struggle with those. Can you... manage them?" she asked cautiously. In the past, Liu Xu would have assumed Jiang Li couldn't, but after so many surprises, she no longer knew what Jiang Li was incapable of—whether it was mastering the three core subjects of literature, mathematics, and etiquette, discerning authentic paintings from forgeries, or even performing the unheard-of "Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute."

"I know a little," Jiang Li answered vaguely.

Even this modest reply stunned Liu Xu, who nearly blurted out, "So you can do that too!"

"Enough," Jiang Li chuckled. "It's not a big deal. I'm just preparing for the exams. Today was probably luck—who knows if it'll hold for equestrian and archery?" As they spoke, she and Liu Xu walked toward the Jiang family's seating.

Jiang Yuanbai, watching his younger daughter Jiang Youyao's despondent expression, felt a pang of discomfort. When he saw his eldest daughter approaching, his emotions grew complicated. Jiang Li had been abandoned in the nunnery for eight years with no guidance, yet she had flourished—suggesting she was inherently more talented than Jiang Youyao. Yet such a bright daughter had been wasted all those years.

On one hand, Jiang Yuanbai felt guilty for his neglect; on the other, he couldn't forget the wrongs Jiang Li had committed against Ji Shuran eight years prior. Though redemption was possible, the scars remained—for Jiang Li and for himself.

Ignoring her father's conflicted gaze, Jiang Li met Lu Shi's enthusiastic smile. "Li Yatou, you're remarkable!" Lu Shi praised. "You've only been at Mingyi Hall a short while, and you've already taken first place. In all my years here, I've never seen anyone as capable as you. What others couldn't achieve, you accomplished effortlessly."Praising Jiang Li, yet subtly taking another jab at Jiang Youyao—implying that what Jiang Li could accomplish, Jiang Youyao had failed to achieve, making her inferior.

Upon hearing this, Jiang Youyao’s resentment deepened, though her expression grew even more aggrieved and dejected, appearing utterly pitiful.

Jiang Yuanbai cleared his throat softly, unable to bear seeing his younger daughter so disheartened, and said, "Youyao is also quite capable."

Ji Shuran, however, added, "Youyao is still young and not as refined as Li'er. Li'er truly opened our eyes today." She smiled at Jiang Li. "In the future, Youyao should learn more from Li'er."

This magnanimous display left Jiang Li in awe, thinking that Ji Shuran truly knew how to bend and adapt. But as for guiding Jiang Youyao—never mind whether she herself was willing—Jiang Youyao would likely refuse. Moreover, Jiang Li doubted Jiang Youyao would ever acknowledge being outshone by Jinghong Xianzi.

Still, appearances had to be maintained. Jiang Li smiled and replied, "It’s all thanks to Mother’s excellent teaching."

Jiang Yu'e watched from the side, inwardly sneering. Now they were putting on a show of familial harmony, but who knew if each harbored ulterior motives? Ji Shuran was skilled at acting, and so was Jiang Li. Jiang Yu'e began to grow wary of Jiang Li.

"Tomorrow, there are still the two events of equestrianism and archery," Old Madam Jiang said. "Li Yatou, do you know how?"

The two events originally referred to horsemanship and archery. This year’s examination combined them, requiring participants to shoot arrows while riding—essentially mounted archery. This was inspired by the Eastern Turks' invasion in previous years. Hailing from the grasslands, the Eastern Turks excelled at mounted archery, prompting the military to train cavalry archers. Mingyi Hall followed suit, having young ladies combine horsemanship and archery to test both skills efficiently.

"I know a little," Jiang Li said.

Jiang Youyao and Jiang Yu'e both felt a jolt of alarm and stared at Jiang Li. How could she even know this?

Was there a Mingyi Hall in Qingcheng Mountain that taught mounted archery as well?

Jiang Yuanbai was also surprised and asked, "Where did you learn it?"

"A benefactor once donated horses to the nunnery. Out of curiosity, I climbed onto one and rode it secretly while feeding it. The horse was gentle and not difficult to handle," Jiang Li explained. "As for archery, Tong'er and I once made bows and arrows from branches in the woods to hunt birds for food."

Tong'er felt puzzled—she didn’t recall any of this. Still, she nodded earnestly, backing up her mistress’s lie without batting an eye.

To Old Madam Jiang and Jiang Yuanbai, these words carried a different weight. Feeding horses, hunting birds, filling their stomachs—it sounded like the life of a poor rural family, not that of a Grand Secretary’s daughter. They couldn’t help but wonder how much hardship Jiang Li had endured over the years.

Jiang Yuanbai, soft-hearted and easily swayed, especially toward his family, was immediately filled with regret over his past actions.

Ji Shuran, however, seethed inwardly. How dare Jiang Li complain in front of her? So young, yet so cunning. If she weren’t stopped soon, who knew what trouble she would cause in the Jiang residence?

Jiang Li could not be allowed to stay, Ji Shuran thought. Ordinary methods would not suffice.

As these thoughts crossed Ji Shuran’s mind, she suddenly sensed something. With a casual glance, she froze slightly.Not far away, Meng Hongjin stood among the crowd, staring directly at Jiang Li. Though brief and indistinct, the gloom and calculation in her gaze did not escape Ji Shuran's eyes.

Ji Shuran was initially puzzled, then suddenly understood. Her heart settled, and she immediately relaxed. Smiling at Jiang Li, the earlier gloom vanished instantly. She even followed Jiang Yuanbai's wishes by saying, "Li Yatou has suffered so much over the years. Now that you've returned home, those days are behind you. Things will only get better from now on."

Jiang Yuanbai was very pleased with Ji Shuran's thoughtfulness, but Jiang Li grew instantly wary upon hearing these words.

What had changed? Ji Shuran seemed to have suddenly relaxed.

What was the change?

(End of Chapter)