The Double

Chapter 75: Renouncing the Engagement

The examinations at Mingyi Hall, comprising the three upper disciplines and three lower disciplines, had finally concluded in their entirety.

This series of examinations arrived with great fanfare and concluded with equal spectacle. Yet one name emerged from these trials to become known to all: Second Miss Jiang, Jiang Li.

She had taken first place in all six disciplines—literature, mathematics, etiquette, music, equestrianism, and archery—an unprecedented achievement since Mingyi Hall’s founding. Had this Second Miss Jiang been a child prodigy renowned from an early age, it might have been less remarkable. But she was precisely the young girl who had been sent away right after her elementary education began, spending eight solitary years in a nunnery. This made her accomplishments far more astonishing than any child prodigy’s.

The gambling houses in the streets and alleys of Yanjing City reaped substantial profits. Due to the wager with Meng Hongjin, the majority had bet on Meng Hongjin’s victory, while only a handful had placed bets on Jiang Li. Even those who bet on Jiang Li had staked meager amounts. As a result, the house emerged as the true beneficiary. Thus, the gambling den owners held Jiang Li in high regard, never missing a chance to sing her praises when they encountered anyone—after all, having profited from her, it was only right to return the favor in some measure. In this way, Second Miss Jiang’s reputation improved dramatically because of this examination.

Similarly, gains and losses went hand in hand. Second Miss Jiang had shone brilliantly during the examinations, particularly in music, equestrianism, and archery. Countless eyes had witnessed her genuine skill, which completely overshadowed the abilities of all the other young ladies present. This year’s examinations were dominated solely by Second Miss Jiang, with none of the previous vibrant competition among many talents.

As people remembered Jiang Li, those who had once dazzled, like Jiang Youyao, were quickly forgotten. Even when Meng Hongjin was recalled, it was only because she had injured Princess Yongning with an arrow during the equestrianism and archery events, and because of her ludicrous wager with Jiang Li—nothing related to her own grace or charm.

Some remembered Third Miss Jiang as sweet, charming, and delicately lovely, while others recalled Second Miss Jiang as peerlessly elegant, intelligent, and exquisitely clever. In this world, there are three thousand weak waters, and each person favors their own dipperful. But whether one can obtain the desired scoop to drink depends entirely on fate.

At the residence of Marquis Ningyuan, Zhou Yanbang sat in a daze. The pages of the book on his desk fluttered in the wind, but he paid them no mind.

What appeared before his eyes was the figure of the young woman on the racecourse, her green robes flowing, soaring like the wind.

Zhou Yanbang was entranced. In all his past years, he had never been so captivated by a woman. Even his former fiancée, Jiang Youyao, whom he had initially found quite satisfactory, held no paramount importance in his heart. To him, marrying a young lady meant providing her with fine clothes and sumptuous food, entrusting the management of the household to her—that was what defined a wife.

But now, Zhou Yanbang understood: the wife he truly desired was Jiang Li alone.

That young woman was like an enigma; the more she disregarded him, the more obsessed he became. Especially since Jiang Li had once been his fiancée—she should have been his from the start. If not for the upheaval in the Jiang family, things would not have become so complicated. Today on the racecourse, besides himself, many others had watched Jiang Li. Zhou Yanbang disliked the way those around him gazed at her.

She was his. How could others look upon her so freely?Previously, Jiang Li's reputation had been poor, making it difficult for her to find a suitable marriage prospect. However, after this examination, her literary talent became known throughout Yanjing. With her striking beauty, status as Jiang Yuanbai's legitimate daughter, and having already reached marriageable age, it was likely that marriage proposals would soon come her way... Given Jiang Li's qualifications, there would surely be no shortage of suitors interested in her.

Zhou Yanbang felt unsettled and restless. The thought of Jiang Li marrying someone else filled him with anger and regret, as if his own wife were being taken from him.

While he was troubled, a servant entered the room and announced: "Young Master, the Madam has arrived."

The wife of Marquis Ningyuan walked in.

Zhou Yanbang quickly stood up: "Mother."

Marquis Ningyuan's wife smiled and said: "I had the kitchen prepare some plum cakes for you. With the hot weather these days, they should help refresh you." Noticing the disorganized books on Zhou Yanbang's desk, the Madam paused and looked at him inquiringly, asking: "Yanbang, have you been preoccupied with something lately?"

Recently, Zhou Yanbang had often been absent-minded in his tasks and frequently inattentive when matters were discussed with him. The Madam wondered if he was upset about placing third in the Imperial College rankings and comforted him: "Is it because of the Imperial College results? Yanbang, your father already said it's not your fault. We hadn't heard of Ye Shijie before, but since he surpassed even Young Master Li Jing of the Li family, he must have genuine talent. You shouldn't dwell on it too much. Placing third is still quite admirable."

In this year's Imperial College rankings, Zhou Yanbang had expected to be second, as the only person ahead of him in the entire Imperial College was Young Master Li Jing from the Right Prime Minister's household. But this time, Li Jing became second while he dropped to third, with the top position going to the previously unknown Ye Shijie, who likely wasn't from an official family in Yanjing City.

"Mother, it's not because of that..." Zhou Yanbang found it difficult to continue. As the only son of Marquis Ningyuan's household, both the Madam and the Marquis doted on him, but even he felt his current request was somewhat absurd.

"Then what is it?" the Madam asked curiously.

"I..." Zhou Yanbang gritted his teeth and said: "I don't want to marry the Third Miss Jiang from the Grand Secretary's household. The one I have my heart set on is the Second Miss Jiang!"

The plate of snacks in Marquis Ningyuan's wife's hands fell to the ground with a sharp "crack."

...

"Master has sent some silver."

In the Fragrant Garden Courtyard, Tong'er happily carried a small wooden box and placed it on the table.

When Jiang Li opened the box lid, she saw neatly arranged silver ingots. She had heard that Jiang Yuanbai would reward Jiang Youyao with silver whenever she performed well in examinations. Perhaps to maintain fairness, he had now sent silver to her as well.

However, Jiang Li understood that if Jiang Youyao had achieved top honors in all subjects during the examination, Jiang Yuanbai would have not only given silver but also enthusiastically congratulated her, rather than offering brief praise before leaving.

Jiang Li wasn't surprised. Besides guilt, Jiang Yuanbai could hardly have particularly deep feelings for a daughter who had been away from home for eight years. Naturally, he favored Jiang Youyao, who had been raised by his side. Now that Jiang Youyao was disappointed, Jiang Yuanbai certainly wouldn't make a grand celebration for Jiang Li's achievement.

The distinction between closeness and distance was clear at a glance.

She said: "Put the silver away. We'll need it later."

Tong'er obediently stored the silver as Mingyue knocked on the door outside.Jiang Li said, "Come in."

After Mingyue entered, she closed the door and stepped forward, speaking softly: "Miss, I've inquired. That Miss Meng hasn't returned to her residence yet. Lady Meng is still waiting at home, while Lord Meng has gone to mediate. It seems Princess Yongning won't let this matter rest."

Jiang Li nodded: "Understood." This was what she had anticipated—Meng Hongjin wouldn't fare well. Jiang Li had witnessed Princess Yongning's methods of torment firsthand. This time, Meng Hongjin might have left Princess Yongning with a permanent scar; it would be strange if Meng Hongjin escaped unscathed.

If all went as expected, Meng Hongjin would be released tomorrow, but what she endured in the meantime remained unknown. Perhaps she suffered immense terror, or perhaps Princess Yongning left a few scars on her as well.

The Meng family was like mutes tasting bitter herbs—unable to voice their suffering.

Upon hearing this, Bai Xue asked Jiang Li, "Will the bet between you and Miss Meng still hold?"

"I'd like it to, but it's no longer possible. Tomorrow, Meng Hongjin definitely won't show up. When the time comes, have a few people announce at the entrance of the Imperial College that I understand Miss Meng's distress and that the bet was merely a jest, so let it be forgotten and never mentioned again."

Tong'er expressed disappointment, saying, "But that's letting her off too easily."

Jiang Li smiled. "Even if I don't say it, Meng Youde will find an excuse to void the bet or apologize to me. In any case, he won't allow Meng Hongjin to truly lose face. Just as if I had lost, my father would also find a way to evade the bet. The outcome was predetermined from the start. By saying this now, I can gain a good reputation—why not take the opportunity?"

Outsiders would see only her kindness, broad-mindedness, talent, and virtue. Being aggressive always seems too petty. A few words cost nothing and don't change the outcome, so why not?

In her past life, she had cared too little about her reputation, allowing others to use it as a weapon against her. Now, she would cultivate a reputation for virtue throughout the land. Acting behind a mask would make things much simpler.

"Miss, you've won the top prize this time. I heard the winner gets to enter the palace and receive honors directly from the Emperor," Tong'er recalled. "Does that mean you'll soon have an audience with the Emperor? This is an imperial reward, the highest honor. No one will dare bully you anymore."

Jiang Li chuckled wryly, recalling the last time she saw the Hongxiao Emperor—it was after Shen Yurong achieved the top scholar rank, during a palace banquet where she attended as his family member. Countless people envied her, the Top Scholar's Wife, for Shen Yurong was dashing and promising. Back then, Princess Yongning even shared a toast with her.

Her gaze darkened. Perhaps even then, Princess Yongning had already set her sights on Shen Yurong and begun scheming. She had been treated as an obstacle, yet foolishly remained unaware.

Now, entering the palace again would inevitably mean encountering Princess Yongning. If it were a palace banquet, Shen Yurong might be there too. But this time, she was no longer Shen's wife—she was a daughter of the Jiang family.

Who could hinder whom now?

She had drawn one step closer to those two.

...

In a residence not far from the Imperial College, lamps were lit in the room at night.

Ye Shijie sat at a desk, writing a letter.

He had taken first place in the Imperial College examination and would soon enter the palace to receive honors from the Emperor, after which he would assume an official post. He needed to share this good news with his relatives in the Ye family of Xiangyang.In just a few lines, he had accounted for himself. The rest made Ye Shijie hesitate, his brush held aloft.

Jiang Li had also taken first place in the Mingyi Hall examination.

Ye Shijie didn't know whether he should include Jiang Li in his letter. For many years, no one in the Ye family had ever mentioned Jiang Li's name. The words spoken by Second Miss Jiang years ago had thoroughly chilled the hearts of the Ye family, even causing Old Madam Ye to fall seriously ill. Since then, the Ye family had acted as if this cousin didn't exist, and even Ye Zhenzhen's name was rarely dared to be mentioned.

Under such circumstances, suddenly bringing up Jiang Li's recent situation would probably seem quite abrupt. Ye Shijie truly intended not to write about her, but every time he thought to set down his brush, he recalled what Jiang Li had said to him.

"I was young at the time, and my grandmother was far away in Xiangyang. My mother passed away early, and my father was busy with government affairs, so I was mostly under the care of my stepmother. What I said back then might not have been my own words—perhaps someone taught me to say it, or perhaps I was threatened into saying those things."

Could it be that Jiang Li's words about the Ye family being merchants and wanting to sever ties were actually orchestrated by someone behind the scenes? With the purpose of driving a wedge between Jiang Li and the Ye family, ensuring they would never have contact again?

Ye Shijie realized he had unconsciously begun to lean toward believing Jiang Li. In truth, he hadn't met her many times, and they had only spoken properly on two brief occasions. With just two meetings, how could he already trust her so much?

Ye Shijie found it rather unbelievable.

But he thought Jiang Li was equally extraordinary. Despite being so neglected by the Jiang family, she had managed to make the entire Yanjing City remember her name. And her name wasn't associated with anything shameful—when mentioned, others only thought of Second Miss Jiang as quite talented.

After all, she was the young woman who had swept all six categories in the Mingyi Hall examination.

He picked up the brush, then set it down; set it down, then picked it up again. After repeating this cycle multiple times, just as Ye Shijie was growing impatient, his personal servant Yuanbao entered.

Yuanbao pulled a letter from his chest, exclaiming excitedly, "Young Master, a letter has arrived from Xiangyang!"

"A letter?" Ye Shijie was taken aback. "It's not time for a letter yet." His correspondence with the Ye family was scheduled once every half month, with a round trip taking about a month. This shouldn't be the right time for a letter.

"It must be that the Madam and others are concerned about your examination results," Yuanbao said proudly. "If Old Madam learns that you took first place, she'll surely host a grand feast in Xiangyang for three days and nights!"

Ye Shijie ignored him and opened the letter himself, scanning through it quickly.

Noticing Ye Shijie's surprised expression, Yuanbao asked, "Young Master, what is it?"

"Father and Second Uncle are coming to Yanjing City to deliver goods," Ye Shijie said. "They're already on the road and should arrive in about seven days."

"Ah?" Yuanbao was stunned, blurting out foolishly, "Then... should we still send a letter back?"

"Yes," Ye Shijie replied. But he'd just write about himself, he thought. Since Father and Second Uncle were coming to Yanjing City, he would have family to consult with. His doubts about Jiang Li could be discussed with them then—much better than agonizing over it alone.

Thinking this, Ye Shijie suddenly felt relieved. He quickly folded the previous letter, sealed it in an envelope, and handed it to Yuanbao, saying, "Send it back."

Yuanbao accepted it cheerfully. "Right away!"

...

After the examination concluded, Mingyi Hall temporarily suspended classes, allowing students to rest at home for a few days.The next day at the entrance of the Imperial College, Jiang Li's servants followed her instructions and publicly declared the bet with Meng Hongjin null and void, advising her not to dwell on it any longer.

Upon hearing this, the people of Yanjing City viewed Jiang Li with even greater esteem. She had given her all to the bet, yet after winning, she didn't cling to it—demonstrating a rare breadth of mind and benevolence.

In contrast, Meng Hongjin ended up looking like a laughingstock.

Moreover, Jiang Li's display of such gentleness led some to question whether there might be hidden circumstances behind the rumors of her killing her mother and brother. After all, such a gentle and lovely girl hardly seemed capable of such cruelty.

Given that Ji Shuran was the stepmother, the relationship was delicate, and speculation ran rampant.

When these rumors reached Ji Shuran, she was furious but responded by treating Jiang Li with even more kindness and affection, which made Jiang Li feel quite uncomfortable.

In the Elegant Beauty Garden, the maids inside and outside the courtyard were diligently attending to their tasks. Everyone knew that Ji Shuran had been in a foul mood these past few days, and the maids were afraid of being made scapegoats, so they worked more conscientiously than usual.

Two maids stood guard at the door. Inside, the ice in the bronze vessel seemed unable to relieve the summer heat. As summer drew to a close, the weather grew even more stifling, making everyone restless and irritable.

Ji Shuran was speaking with her elder sister, Ji Chen Shi.

Ji Chen Shi had come to see Ji Shuran early in the morning. Jiang Yuanbai was not at the residence. Ji Chen Shi said, "What have you been doing these past few days? Do you know what people are saying about you outside? Even I've heard the gossip, suggesting that the incident of Jiang Li killing her mother and brother might have been a scheme orchestrated by you."

Mentioning this only fueled Ji Shuran's anger. "Sister, why are you blaming me?" she retorted. "These rumors are spread by outsiders. No one in this courtyard dares to bring it up."

"Regardless of who started it, the more these rumors spread, the worse it is for you," Ji Chen Shi replied. "It's all because of that girl. How come you can't even handle a little girl?"

Ji Chen Shi and Ji Shuran had been very close since before they were married. Compared to Ji Shuran's often gentle and reserved demeanor, Ji Chen Shi was much more assertive.

Ji Shuran said irritably, "That girl is slippery and cunning. Even you would find it challenging to deal with her. Look at what happened with the Meng family—Meng Hongjin clearly suffered a double loss. I initially thought that since Meng Hongjin wanted to deal with her, I could reap the benefits. Who knew Meng Hongjin would be so incompetent? Not only did she fail, but she also got herself entangled."

"What happened?" Ji Chen Shi asked, startled. "Is Meng Hongjin's situation related to her as well?"

Ji Shuran then detailed the events between Meng Hongjin and Jiang Li. Finally, she added, "Since Jiang Li returned to Yanjing City, she hasn't suffered a single setback. She's about the same age as Youyao, but look how much more cunning she is. If we let her stay in the residence, how could Youyao ever be a match for her?"

"From what you're saying," Ji Chen Shi mused, "Jiang Li cannot be allowed to stay. I'm afraid she'll only become more formidable with time. It's best to get rid of her as soon as possible."

"You mean... arrange a marriage for her?" Ji Shuran said. "That's not impossible, but the master will definitely want to have a say in it.""That's simple enough," Ji Chen Shi sneered. "There's no shortage of outwardly impressive but inwardly worthless young noblemen. Just find one who sounds decent but is actually no good, marry her off to him, and she'll be gone in two or three years. No one outside would notice anything wrong. Isn't that straightforward?"

"Sister, please keep an eye out for me," Ji Shuran said. "If there's such a person, I'll find a way to tell the master and have him arrange the marriage."

Ji Chen Shi nodded. As they were speaking, Jiang Youyao suddenly rushed in from outside. She was in such a hurry that she didn't even notice Ji Chen Shi, only crying out "Mother" before her voice choked with sobs.

Startled, Ji Shuran quickly stepped forward and took Jiang Youyao's hand, seeing her face streaked with tears. "Youyao, what's wrong?" she asked urgently, then turned to scold Jiang Youyao's maids, Jinhua and Yinhua. "How have you been taking care of your mistress—"

"Mother," before Ji Shuran could continue, Jiang Youyao threw herself into her arms, sobbing. "Young Master Zhou... Young Master Zhou wants to break off our engagement..."

"What?" Ji Chen Shi slapped the table and stood up from beside them. "Youyao, what did you say?"

Only then did Jiang Youyao notice Ji Chen Shi's presence. She called out "Aunt" and continued crying uncontrollably.

Ji Shuran had the maids close the door and asked Jiang Youyao, "Youyao, what nonsense is this? How could Zhou Yanbang break off the engagement with you? You must have heard some rumor..."

"It's true! Jinhua's sister works in the Marquis Ningyuan's residence. Last night, the Marchioness and the young master had an argument. The maid bribed a servant from the young master's courtyard to find out. The young master said... he said he wants to break off the engagement with me and marry Jiang Li!"

"Jinhua!" Ji Shuran said. "Is what Youyao said true?"

Jinhua immediately knelt down. "Every word I said is true. This really happened." Jinhua was also terrified. Everyone in Yanjing City knew that Jiang Youyao and Zhou Yanbang's engagement was a settled matter, something even Jiang Li's return couldn't change. But at this critical moment, Young Master Zhou actually proposed marrying Jiang Li. This was like the flood dragon attacking the dragon king's temple—family turning against family.

"How outrageous!" Ji Shuran fumed. "What does Zhou Yanbang take our Jiang family for? Coming and going as he pleases?"

Jiang Youyao's makeup was ruined from crying. She grabbed Ji Shuran's sleeve. "Mother, what should I do? Young Master Zhou doesn't want me anymore. He wants to marry Jiang Li... I'll become the laughingstock of Yanjing City. Mother, I don't want that..."

Seeing her cry so pitifully and heartbrokenly, Ji Shuran's heart ached. She held Jiang Youyao's hand and said, "Don't worry, Mother will get an explanation for you. Zhou Yanbang is so fickle, but our Jiang family isn't for anyone to pick and choose from. Breaking off the engagement won't be that simple. Anyone who tries to make you the laughingstock of Yanjing City will regret it for the rest of their life!"

With these last words, Ji Shuran nearly gritted her teeth to dust."Don't be anxious yet, Youyao," Ji Chen Shi was somewhat calmer than Ji Shuran, saying only: "Since Zhou Yanbang argued with the Marquess's wife last night, it shows the Marquess's wife disapproves of Zhou Yanbang's actions. Moreover, Zhou Yanbang has already regretted and broken the engagement once—how could he possibly do it a second time? Changing an elder sister for a younger sister, then the younger sister back to the elder sister—this is the first time such a thing has been heard of since Northern Yan was established. If Zhou Yanbang wishes to be promoted and ennobled in the future, he would not commit such an absurd act. Marquis Ningyuan would not allow him to do so, and your father would not agree either."

Hearing this, Jiang Youyao felt slightly reassured and asked, "Then Young Master Zhou will not break off the engagement with me?"

"Of course not," Ji Chen Shi said with a laugh. "You are the legitimate daughter of the Jiang family, and your father is the current Grand Secretary. Who would dare treat you like that?"

"But Jiang Li is also a daughter of the Jiang family," Jiang Youyao said resentfully. "If only she weren't a Jiang. If she were just an ordinary person, it wouldn't be so troublesome." If Jiang Li were merely common-born, given Ji Shuran's family background, she could easily make the other party back down or quietly "disappear."

"Even as a Jiang, it's not that troublesome." Ji Chen Shi patted Jiang Youyao's shoulder and said, "Youyao, you may leave now. Your mother and I have matters to discuss."

Jiang Youyao had initially wanted Ji Shuran to support her, but seeing Ji Chen Shi's expression, she understood they had important matters to discuss. Without another word, she returned to Yaoguang Residence with Jin Hua and Yin Hua, tear stains still fresh on their faces.

After Jiang Youyao left, Ji Shuran said coldly, "Sister, now you see how capable that little slut Jiang Li is. She's only been back in the capital for a short while, yet she's already seduced Zhou Yanbang. How shameless!"

"Zhou Yanbang is young. Men are all the same," Ji Chen Shi remarked. "The wife is never as appealing as the concubine, the concubine never as thrilling as the illicit affair, and the illicit affair never as tantalizing as the unattainable. When Jiang Li and Zhou Yanbang were still betrothed, did he ever spare her a glance? Now that Jiang Li has returned, he suddenly remembers their engagement—it's all about those three words: 'unattainable desire.' If he were to have Jiang Li, he would soon recall Youyao's virtues again."

Ji Chen Shi's words laid bare the base nature of men with striking clarity. Ji Shuran said, "Even so, the thought of my daughter's husband pining for Jiang Li sickens me."

"That's precisely why we must devise a plan," Ji Chen Shi replied. "I initially considered meddling with Jiang Li's marriage prospects, but upon reflection, if she marries someone else, it might only deepen Zhou Yanbang's obsession. His sense of 'unattainable desire' would grow stronger, and he might resent Youyao for it. I've watched Youyao grow up and treat her as my own daughter—how could I bear to see her suffer?"

"I feel the same, sister," Ji Shuran agreed. "But taking action in Yanjing City isn't easy..."

"Action? What kind of action?" Ji Chen Shi shook her head. "We of the Ji family never dirty our own hands. And what good would taking her life do?"

Ji Shuran was puzzled. "What do you mean, sister?"

"Isn't it said that the top performer in the Mingyi Hall evaluation will attend the palace banquet in a few days to be received by His Majesty and personally honored? The palace banquet will be attended by many—all the prominent families of Yanjing City. If some commotion were to arise during the banquet, her reputation would be utterly ruined."

"You mean to have her..." Ji Shuran suddenly understood.

"Do you remember the wife of Imperial Secretariat Writer Shen? That exquisite beauty—with her looks and talent, she could have entered the palace. Yet in the end, she was scorned by everyone. When she died, not a soul spoke in her defense. All because she committed a disgraceful act in front of nobility. The same applies to Jiang Li. She doesn't even compare to that lady in looks or talent, and she already carries the stigma of matricide and fratricide. If she makes the slightest misstep at the palace banquet, she will never recover." Ji Chen Shi spoke slowly, her tone casual.

Her words, though lightly spoken, made everything clear to Ji Shuran in an instant. Visions of Jiang Li being pointed at and scorned flashed before her eyes, filling her with a thrill of excitement and satisfaction."I'll arrange this matter. At the palace banquet, I'll properly arrange a 'lover' for her."

Ji Chen Shi glanced at Ji Shuran and said, "Silly, isn't there one right before your eyes?"

Ji Shuran looked puzzled.

"I heard the top scholar of the Imperial College this time is Ye Shijie, who comes from Ye Zhenzhen's maternal family. Jiang Li and Ye Shijie are at least cousins, and between cousins... it's easiest for something to develop. Didn't Jiang Li previously help Ye Shijie out of trouble on the street? I suspect there might really be something between them."

Ji Shuran's face darkened: "You mean Ye Shijie? Why should she get such a good deal?" In Ji Shuran's view, Ye Shijie could barely be considered a talented young man, and now he was even the top scholar at the Imperial College. For Jiang Li to marry Ye Shijie would actually be doing Ye Shijie a favor. She'd rather Jiang Li marry some worthless, lazy good-for-nothing that everyone looked down upon - that would be more satisfying.

"My dear sister, you need to think more long-term. Would it really be good for Jiang Li to marry Ye Shijie?" Ji Chen Shi said unhurriedly: "Now that Ye Shijie has achieved first place, he'll soon become an official. Although the Ji family doesn't take him seriously, he would still be an eyesore. If the Ye family rises through Ye Shijie, Jiang Li would have her maternal family's support. By then, it would be even harder for you to touch Jiang Li."

"If Ye Shijie and Jiang Li are caught in an improper situation at the palace banquet, exposed before everyone, the Emperor would be furious and would surely take it out on Ye Shijie. Ye Shijie would lose hope of promotion and become the subject of public scorn. With Jiang Li's reputation in ruins, these two would have no choice but to marry. But after marriage, would they really respect each other?" Ji Chen Shi elaborated: "Ye Shijie would resent Jiang Li for ruining his future, and the Ye family would blame Jiang Li for it. If conflicts arise between husband and wife..." Ji Chen Shi smiled, "it would be extremely difficult for them to live well. By then, you could find some beautiful maids from outside, or bribe people around Jiang Li to constantly sow discord. I'm not afraid that Ye Shijie and Jiang Li wouldn't become enemies."

"And in a marriage between enemies, women always suffer more than men." Ji Chen Shi continued: "When Jiang Li is in Xiangyang by then, if you want to deal with her, it would be much easier than now."

Ji Shuran suddenly saw the light.

Making Jiang Li and Ye Shijie appear "in love" could both destroy Ye Shijie's future, dash the Ye family's hopes, preventing them from recovering, and also make Jiang Li marry into a family that resents her, where nothing would go smoothly.

As long as she married into Xiangyang, Ji Shuran believed she had ten thousand ways to make Jiang Li's life worse than death.

"Thank you for your guidance, sister." This time, Ji Shuran was truly convinced by Ji Chen Shi and said: "Your plan is much more thorough than mine."

"Compared to Li Pin in the palace, both of us still have much to learn." Ji Chen Shi said: "You should quickly go comfort Youyao now. She's been pampered since childhood, and with Zhou Yanbang humiliating her like this, she must be extremely upset. Make sure she doesn't do anything foolish in the heat of the moment that could ruin your plans."

Ji Shuran felt a chill and said: "I understand, I'll go right now."

Ji Chen Shi nodded with satisfaction.

...

On the other side, Tong'er reported the information she had gathered to Jiang Li.

"They say the third young lady is in a very bad mood. All the servants at Yaoguang Residence have been punished. Some even saw the third young lady crying..."Jiang Li set down the book in her hand, puzzled. "She cried?" Most things that could anger Jiang Youyao usually involved Jiang Li herself, but she didn’t believe she had done anything to make Jiang Youyao cry. Since the examination at Mingyi Hall, she had stayed within the estate, never stepping out, and had not provoked Jiang Youyao in any way.

"Indeed, no one knows what exactly happened. Later, we heard that Ji Shi comforted her for a long time before she calmed down, but then the master flew into a rage."

Jiang Li was even more confused. However, having only recently arrived at the Jiang residence, she had no way to place her own people in other courtyards. Apart from Fragrant Garden Courtyard, she had to rely on Tong’er to gather information about the other households. News obtained this way was often incomplete and lacking in detail.

No sooner had she spoken than someone called her name from outside the door: "Jiang Li! Jiang Li!"

It was Jiang Jingrui’s voice.

"Second Young Master is here again," Tong’er muttered, pursing her lips. Jiang Jingrui visited so frequently that the tea in Fragrant Garden Courtyard was nearly depleted, and the new batch wouldn’t arrive until next month.

Noticing Tong’er’s expression, Jiang Jingrui exclaimed, "Jiang Li, you should really discipline your maid. I am the Second Young Master of the Jiang family. Others beg for my presence, yet I choose to come here. My visits bring honor to your humble abode—just look at the face she’s making!"

Jiang Li couldn’t be bothered to correct his nonsensical remarks and simply asked, "What is it this time?" She was usually a patient and amiable person, but Jiang Jingrui’s penchant for mischief and his tactless words made him an unwelcome guest.

Jiang Jingrui theatrically glanced around before pulling Jiang Li inside and shutting the door. Jiang Li sighed inwardly. If there were any spies in Fragrant Garden Courtyard, Jiang Jingrui’s conspicuous behavior would surely alert them to their secret discussion—as if he were afraid others wouldn’t notice they were about to talk privately.

Once the door was closed, Jiang Li sat down at the wooden table, watching as Jiang Jingrui familiarly gestured for Bai Xue to pour him tea.

Jiang Li said, "If you don’t speak soon, I’m leaving."

"Wait, wait! I’ve brought you a huge secret this time," Jiang Jingrui replied, winking mischievously.

"Go on."

"Ahem." Jiang Jingrui cleared his throat deliberately and lowered his voice. "Did you know? Zhou Yanbang, the heir of Marquis Ningyuan, is going to break off his engagement with Jiang Youyao!"

"What?" Even though Jiang Li had braced herself for surprises, she was still taken aback by Jiang Jingrui’s words. If she remembered correctly, Zhou Yanbang had already broken off one engagement before—with Second Miss Jiang—before switching to Third Miss Jiang. Now he was repeating the same trick and calling off the engagement with Jiang Youyao. What was he playing at?

"I knew you wouldn’t have heard," Jiang Jingrui said, clearly pleased to possess a secret unknown even to Jiang Li. "Guess why Zhou Yanbang wants to break off the engagement with Jiang Youyao?" He grinned teasingly at her.

Jiang Li had an inkling of the reason but found it too absurd to believe. No matter how unruly Zhou Yanbang was, he wouldn’t possibly go this far. She replied, "I can’t guess."

"It’s because of you!" Jiang Jingrui burst into laughter. "Zhou Yanbang regrets his decision now. Probably because you stole the spotlight at the Mingyi Hall examination, he thinks you’re far better than Jiang Youyao. So he’s decided to break off the engagement again and marry you instead!""How ridiculous!" The speaker was Tong'er, who angrily slammed the teapot in her hand onto the table. "My lady isn't some maid from the Zhou family that they can order around as they please! Back then, it was the Zhou family who decided to break off the engagement. Now they want to marry my lady again? Have they even asked for her opinion? The Ningyuan Marquis's family is simply going too far!"

Even Tong'er was indignant on Jiang Li's behalf.

Jiang Jingrui found it strange. "What's there to be angry about? Although Zhou Yanbang isn't much, he's still considered a talented young man in Yanjing City, and he's a suitable match for the Jiang family. He's not bad-looking either—many young ladies admire him. He wouldn't be a bad match for your lady. Besides, Jiang Li," he turned to Jiang Li, "if you were with Zhou Yanbang, Jiang Youyao would definitely be furious. It would be proof that you've surpassed her, that she's not as good as you."

Jiang Li nearly laughed in exasperation at Jiang Jingrui's reasoning. She finally understood—Jiang Jingrui simply had no brains. She said, "Why would I need proof to show that I've surpassed her? Who would I be proving it to? To make Jiang Youyao angry, I'd have to sacrifice myself? Am I insane? Moreover," she sneered, "no matter how good Zhou Yanbang is, I, Jiang Li, have no interest in picking up something someone else has used." She wasn't like Princess Yongning, who specialized in collecting other people's castoffs.

Jiang Jingrui stared at Jiang Li, dumbfounded. Her words made him feel like some discarded trash on the street. And judging by her expression, her disdain for Zhou Yanbang was genuine, not feigned.

What Jiang Youyao treasured like a precious jewel, Jiang Li treated like worthless rubbish.

Jiang Jingrui retorted, "Why are you taking it out on me? It was Zhou Yanbang who brought this up."

"And then?" Tong'er pressed anxiously. "Did the master agree to it?"

"How could he?" Jiang Jingrui scoffed. "Back then, Zhou Yanbang broke off the engagement with your lady because... ahem, something happened, and your lady went to the nunnery. Now Zhou Yanbang wants to break off the engagement, but Jiang Youyao hasn't done anything wrong. How could Uncle tolerate that? It's already merciful that he hasn't gone to the Zhou family to demand an explanation."

Jiang Li seized the key point in Jiang Jingrui's words. "What? The Zhou family didn't send anyone?"

"Tch, the Zhou family wouldn't dare. Zhou Yanbang might be crazy, but his parents aren't. Zhou Yanband said it himself, but the Ningyuan Marquis and his wife didn't agree. Zhou Yanbang's servant overheard them arguing and secretly told one of our servants, who then told Aunt. I heard Jiang Youyao cried her eyes out, and Aunt is still comforting her. Uncle was so angry he almost went to the Ningyuan Marquis's residence himself."

Jiang Li suddenly understood. No wonder Tong'er had heard that Jiang Youyao was crying—it was because of this.

"How did you find out?" Jiang Li asked.

"I overheard my mother talking with the matron," Jiang Jingrui said casually. "My mother is always concerned with the affairs of the main branch. She hears about any little disturbance faster than you do."

Jiang Li was left speechless."That scoundrel Zhou Yanbang," Jiang Jingrui continued, "actually chose this moment to propose breaking off the engagement. It's clear he's truly smitten with you and wants to marry you instead. Jiang Youyao likes Zhou Yanbang so much—she must be furious. But she brought this upon herself. Back when you were sent to the nunnery, Auntie started scheming almost immediately to have Jiang Youyao replace you as the bride for Marquis Ningyuan's household. It just goes to show that some things can't be stolen, no matter how hard you try."

Jiang Jingrui seemed to say this with a hint of pride for Jiang Li.

But Jiang Li didn't share Jiang Jingrui's cheerful mood. She knew perfectly well that Zhou Yanbang's proposal to break off the engagement and marry her was anything but good news for her. At the very least, Ji Shuran and her daughter must now hate her a hundred, even a thousand times more than before.

Given the mother and daughter's narrow-minded and ruthless natures, Jiang Li suspected Jiang Youyao would not let her off easily. To completely sever Zhou Yanbang's hopes, they might even resort to eliminating the root of the problem.

After much thought, she concluded that the upcoming palace banquet would be the perfect opportunity.

Jiang Li lowered her gaze. Danger was gradually closing in.

Happy weekend! Time to have fun!

(End of Chapter)