The General's Locked Lover

Mentioning Caichun Pavilion would instantly ignite the eyes of powerful officials, wealthy merchants, and refined scholars in the capital. They would eagerly tell you about the exceptional beauty of the girls there, the elegant decor, and the captivating charm of the head courtesan, Qing. When her generosity was mentioned, everyone would give her a thumbs up.
Gradually, they would quiet down, murmuring a beautiful name in a dreamy, lovestruck tone—Yun Xiangyi—and sigh softly, as if this courtesan of Caichun Pavilion were an unattainable goddess, and further description would be a desecration of her ethereal beauty and elegance.
It is said that Minister Li once offered 200,000 taels of silver, and Imperial Censor Wang offered 300,000 taels, just to see Yun Xiangyi, but both were refused by Qing.
Although Qing was a brothel madam, she never mistreated her girls to please her patrons. These extraordinary women, whom she had personally trained, were all charming and graceful, each with their own unique beauty, proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. More importantly, none of them were forced into prostitution.
The rules set by Miss Qing forbade any guest from transgressing them; otherwise, the masters guarding Caichun Pavilion would immediately expel them, barring them from the gates forever.
What exactly were Miss Qing's abilities that allowed her to command a group of martial arts masters? That's another untold story. However, her mysterious background and unique style of doing things only added to the mystique surrounding Caichun Pavilion.
As for Yun Xiangyi's origins, they were an even greater mystery.
Since she turned fifteen and began her career, rumors about her had never ceased. Some said she was the illegitimate daughter of Miss Qing and a martial arts alliance leader, but that didn't match her age; others claimed she was a celestial being, and some even vividly described seeing her flying to the moon in a colorful dress…
However, no one else had the chance to see this celestial beauty.
A few days ago, on Yun Xiangyi's eighteenth birthday, Miss Qing specially held a bidding war for her virginity—needless to say, this was the most sensational event in the capital for decades.
The final five qualified bidders, after rigorous screening by Miss Qing, were ultimately chosen by Yun Xiangyi—a selection process so meticulous it was practically one in a million, even more elaborate than choosing a consort.
In the fierce yet peaceful bidding, Prince Jing, Shan Qingyu, the most powerful man in the capital, won the bid with an astronomical price; no one knew how much silver he spent. After this gentlemanly competition, everyone graciously refrained from mentioning the winning bid.
That night, Caichun Pavilion, in a celebratory atmosphere, escorted the couple to their bridal chamber.
Although this unattainable beauty had been plucked, leaving all the men who admired Yun Xiangyi heartbroken, the common people could only speak of the couple with envy once they learned that the one who had won was the emperor's most favored minister, the most handsome man in the capital, like a piece of fine white jade. But
some women, however, did not see it that way.
Prince Jing, whose fame rivals that of Yun Xiangyi, is not only favored by Emperor Jiajun, but also has numerous female admirers in the capital, especially the daughters of wealthy and noble families who consider him their top choice for a wealthy husband. They would gladly become his concubines just to stay by his side.
These young ladies, always haughty and
proud, cannot tolerate their idol being defiled by a courtesan. Therefore, whenever they gather in private, they invariably curse Yun Xiangyi. Despite their outwardly refined and polite demeanor, these ladies are incredibly scathing and merciless when it comes to insults.
If a group of unrelated women could be so agitated, how much more so would Prince Jing's betrothed
since childhood, Tie Rou, the younger sister of General Tie Zheng, the Northern Expeditionary Army? Tie Zheng was known for his stubborn temper and upright, dignified conduct. After taking over the position of General from his deceased father at the age of twenty, he led the Tie family army in campaigns across the north and south, making numerous contributions to the court. Moreover, he had been the emperor's companion since childhood, a relationship of both ruler and subject, and even the emperor was said to respect him greatly.
In recent years, the borders had been peaceful and free of war, largely thanks to Tie Zheng's contributions, so the emperor appointed him and the Tie family army to guard the border year-round. Tie Zheng was indifferent to all women and had never been seen with a woman by his side, except for his beloved younger sister, Tie Rou, whom he depended on for survival.
The prospective brother-in-law openly patronized prostitutes, clearly showing no respect for the Tie family. How could Tie Zheng swallow this insult?
Now, everyone was watching with wide eyes. The most powerful Prince Jing's Mansion in the entire capital was facing off against the General's Mansion. How would this matter be resolved?
Chapter 1
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The General's Locked-Up Lover 1
With the heart closed
, there is no love, and of course, no hate can enter
. In this way, the heart will not be riddled with holes...
"It is a great honor for Caichun Pavilion to have General Tie grace us with his presence!"
Miss Qing hadn't greeted guests so warmly in a long time, only because today's guest was truly distinguished.
Tie Zheng sat upright in the elegantly decorated private room with a frosty expression, his disdainful gaze clearly indicating that coming here was a disgrace to his character.
Miss Qing wasn't surprised that he had come in person; on the contrary, she felt he had arrived too late.
"Oh dear, these girls don't even serve their guests a decent cup of wine..."
Just as he was about to call for wine to be prepared, a deep, cold voice rudely stopped him. "I don't buy that. I didn't come here for wine and women..."
"General Tie, you're mistaken. We at Caichun Pavilion serve the finest wines, not what we call 'flower wine.' Besides, every girl here is exceptionally talented and considerate. Not a single guest has come here with a desire for pleasure." Qing replied with a smile, her attitude neither humble nor arrogant.
Tie Zheng snorted coldly. "This general has no time to argue with a mere madam. I need to see Yun Xiangyi."
A few days ago, he received a letter from his old steward at the border, only to learn that the affair between Prince Jing and the courtesan had already become the talk of the town in the capital. The letter mentioned that his sister, Tie Rou, was deeply affected by the affair and had locked herself in her room for days. He was so anxious that he rode back to the capital early to report for duty.
Back at the General's Mansion, after much coaxing, she finally managed to coax her sister into opening the door. Only then did she tearfully recount the humiliation she suffered at the gathering with the daughters of officials.
These so-called close friends, already secretly jealous of Tie Rou
and Shan Qingyu's engagement, seized the opportunity to embellish the rumors circulating that Prince Jing was marrying Yun Xiangyi as a concubine. While outwardly sympathizing with Tie Rou, they were secretly enjoying the spectacle and making sarcastic remarks. The newly-married Tie Rou, with the fierce character of a descendant of a military family flowing in her blood, couldn't withstand such provocation. Moreover, she had secretly seen her fiancé's handsome appearance and had already developed feelings for him; she couldn't bear the blow of having her love stolen.
"If Prince Jing really takes that courtesan as a concubine, I'll die before him! I'll haunt that vixen even as a ghost!" Tie Rou cried so pitifully that it stirred up resentment in Tie Zheng's heart.
Tie Rou was only five years old when both her parents passed away. For ten years, he, the elder brother, had single-handedly raised his younger sister, treating her like a precious jewel, and would never allow anyone to harm her.
Now, his beloved sister had been hurt to the point of contemplating suicide by a lowly courtesan, and he was determined to seek justice!
"Want to see Yiyi? Heh, I'm truly sorry! General, our Yiyi is now Prince Jing's woman, she won't see anyone else..." The young lady, unfazed by Tie Zheng's rudeness, maintained her smiling face and subtly brought up Shan Qingyu's name.
Mentioning his cynical prospective brother-in-law, Tie Zheng's voice grew even colder. "How much would it take to see Yun Xiangyi? I can afford a price higher than Prince Jing's."
"Heh, mentioning money is too vulgar, General Tie..." The young lady, completely unfazed by Tie Zheng's imposing manner, smiled brightly instead, "Although my Caichun Pavilion is a place of pleasure, and I, the young lady, am indeed greedy, the wealthy here aren't necessarily the masters..."
"Hmph, there are prostitutes who don't love money," Tie Zheng then pulled out a silver note from his pocket. "Here's 100,000 taels. I want to buy Yun Xiangyi."
"100,000 taels probably won't even cover Yiyi's sleeve..." Qing chuckled, as if she'd heard the biggest joke in the world.
Then she leaned closer to Tie Zheng, whispering provocatively in his ear, "Do you know how much she's worth right now?"
"Name your price," Tie Zheng thought to himself, mocking her intentions.
This madam was finally willing to discuss a price; her previous high-sounding words were just a ploy to squeeze more money out of him. This Yun Xiangyi was nothing but a used woman, yet her worth exceeded 100,000 taels! How many lifetimes would it take ordinary people to earn that much money?
If it weren't for his affection for the girl, he would never have allowed these lowly women to do whatever they wanted with him!
At this moment, Tie Zheng patiently waited for Qing's answer. With a flick of her captivating eyes, she softly replied, "Priceless."
After speaking, the young woman calmly sat back down, her delicate fingers twirling a celadon teacup, clearly intending to toy with Tie Zheng.
*Smack!
* Tie Zheng angrily stood up, slamming his hand on the table, then forcefully grabbed the young woman's wrist, as if to break her slender arm. "You wretched woman, how dare you play me! Call Yun Xiangyi over here immediately!"
The young woman endured the excruciating pain in her arm, her face still beaming. Tie Zheng couldn't help but admire the woman's composure.
Even his seasoned comrades and subordinates, who had fought countless battles, would fall silent at his temper, yet this woman didn't even flinch; she truly possessed extraordinary courage.
"Let her go!"
Almost simultaneously, the carved door was kicked open, a bear-like roar accompanied by a tall, burly figure entering, his presence like thunder.
Tie Zheng looked at the source of the voice, paused for a moment, then reluctantly withdrew his hand.
The burly man, initially furious, rushed towards Qing, gently lifting the red welts left by the restraints and blowing on them repeatedly, his tone completely changing to the utmost tenderness. "My little Qing, it must hurt a lot,"
he said. Qing, unmoved, withdrew her hand and glared at him coldly. "What are you doing here? Did I give you permission to enter Caichun Pavilion?"
Tie Zheng stared at their interaction for a moment before finally managing to speak: "Brother Xiong, what are you doing here?"
The man before him, dressed in a tight-fitting outfit, was none other than Xiong Qi, the lord of "The First Manor Beyond the Pass"—Shanhai Manor, and also his sworn brother whom he had met while guarding the border.
Known as the "Tiger Beyond the Pass," Xiong Qi was the only tough guy Tie Zheng truly admired. Tie Zheng knew that Xiong Qi had rarely stayed at Shanhai Manor in recent years, supposedly traveling the world to search for his lost past. He never expected the two brothers to meet under such circumstances.
Xiong Qi's usual fierce and imposing demeanor was completely at odds with this fawning and gentle appearance, leaving Tie Zheng utterly astonished and incredulous.
"If I hadn't shown up, you would have already ripped my woman's arm off..." Xiong Qi glared angrily, "I won't allow anyone to touch a hair on my woman's head, not even my best brother!"
"You damned bear, who's your woman?" Qing Guniang glared at Xiong Qi again, and the roaring bear instantly turned into a docile lamb, revealing obedient eyes.
He couldn't help it; facing the woman he deeply loved, he was nothing more than a pet craving his master's affection.
After glaring at Xiong Qi, Qing Guniang immediately smiled and greeted Tie Zheng. "General Tie, it's not that I don't want to hand over Yiyi, but she's now Prince Jing's woman. If you want her, you'll have to discuss it with Prince Jing."
Although Tie Zheng was full of questions, judging from the current situation, both Caichun Pavilion and Qing Guniang were people he couldn't touch. It seemed he would have to make other plans.
"Brother Xiong, I'll take my leave now." Tie Zheng ignored Qing Guniang, bowed to Xiong Qi, and turned to leave.
As soon as he stepped out of the room, Xiong Qi's soft voice came from behind: "Little lover, does your arm still hurt? Let me apply some ointment for you..."
Tie Zheng frowned even more upon hearing this, and could only shake his head helplessly.
Stepping out of the room and into the corridor, Tie Zheng's peripheral vision was suddenly drawn to a white figure on a pavilion not far away, and he couldn't help
but look up. A woman in white sat on the balcony railing, gazing at the sky. Although he couldn't see her face, her flowing robes made her seem extremely otherworldly, ethereal and otherworldly.
She had her arms slightly outstretched, her body without any support, as if she was about to leap off the balcony...
"Miss, be careful!"
Tie Zheng instinctively shouted in alarm, and with lightning speed, he used his lightness skill to fly to the balcony, accurately catching the delicate, lithe body away from the railing like a hawk.
Once he was on the balcony, the woman in white peeked out from his arms and looked up at him, but her face showed no fear or surprise.
Tie Zheng was stunned, as if struck by lightning, momentarily forgetting to breathe. How could such a beautiful woman exist in the mortal world!
Her flawless white jade face was framed by a pair of captivating eyes, like polished obsidian, impossible to look away from. Tie Zheng had seen countless priceless gems, but none could compare to the brilliance of these eyes.
Her delicate, straight nose and naturally rosy lips were equally stunning.
"Miss…are you alright?" Tie Zheng had seen countless women, yet he had never felt such a flutter in his heart; his mouth was dry as he spoke.
The woman ignored his burning gaze, trying to push away his restraining arms in vain, her beautiful eyes shining brightly as she looked at Tie Zheng.
"Mind your own business! Let me go." Her soft voice was as melodious as heavenly music, yet as cold as her face.
This woman in white was none other than Yun Xiangyi, the most beautiful courtesan in the capital.
Ever since Prince Jing bought her virginity, he also bought all her time. Now, except when Prince Jing visits, she has all the time to herself.
She no longer needs to juggle other men, and enjoys a life of leisure.
Tonight, Prince Jing is unable to come, so Yun Xiangyi has dismissed her maids and, as usual, sits alone under the moon, lost in thought.
This is a habit she developed since childhood. For some reason, the bright moonlight seems to contain a mysterious attraction, as if calling to her. Whenever she looks at the moonlight, she feels as if she is being held in her mother's arms, peaceful and warm.
But now, holding her hard body gives her a completely different feeling. The unfamiliar masculine energy penetrates her skin through close contact, almost filling her nostrils, so intense it makes her feel suffocated.
"What if I say I won't let go?" Her indifference arouses Tie Zheng's curiosity, and he can't resist teasing her, deliberately tightening his grip to bring them even closer.
Seeing that she is in a brothel, she is naturally a courtesan selling her smiles at Caichun Pavilion. Since she was selling smiles, she should have been extremely obsequious to please her patrons and get them to spend large sums of money. Yet this young woman displayed a cold indifference
, keeping everyone at arm's length. A man's pride cannot be ignored. Tie Zheng, a seasoned warrior accustomed to conquest, had never felt possessiveness towards any woman before, but now it was ignited.
Looking up at his stunningly beautiful face, almost touching hers, Tie Zheng deliberately lowered his head, his full lips nearly meeting hers.
Yun Xiangyi couldn't help but frown slightly. She rarely showed emotion; the laughter and curses of others never affected her. Indifference was her way of viewing life; joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness were all unnecessary burdens to her.
In public, she always wore a mask of composure. Those who had entered Xiangyun Water Pavilion in the past were all elegant guests carefully selected by Miss Qing, each treating her with courtesy, quietly listening to her music, and never doing anything presumptuous.
As for her relationship with Shan Qingyu, it wasn't what others thought.
But this scoundrel had barged into her world for no reason, and his shameless behavior had already somewhat angered her. She didn't like having her emotions manipulated.
"If you don't let go, young master, I'll call the guards..." Yun Xiangyi deliberately raised her voice, her tone threatening.
Before she could even open her mouth to cry for help, her rosy lips were immediately sealed, and warm lips and tongue instantly invaded her consciousness.
"Mmm..."
What a strange feeling...
Her thoughts were boiling like water, and the sudden surge of unfamiliar passion made Yun Xiangyi panic, about to overwhelm her self-control... She didn't want this! She
struggled to shake her head to gain freedom, but a pair of large hands swept the back of her head tightly, leaving her no choice but to let the domineering lips and tongue churn in her mouth.
Originally, he only wanted to ripple a pool of spring water, but the splashes he stirred up were more beautiful than expected. The taste she had was much sweeter than her cold appearance. Tie Zheng was surprised and determined not to let the little butterfly in his arms escape.
From the little butterfly's innocent reaction and her elegant attire, and the fact that she was raised in this ornately decorated building, Tie Zheng concluded that she must be the next courtesan chosen by Qing Guniang to replace Yun Xiangyi.
Tie Zheng came to Caichun Pavilion intending to confront Yun Xiangyi, but not only did he fail to find her, he was also teased by Qing, yet he couldn't touch her. Now, if he learned that his beloved little canary had been defiled, would she still be so arrogant?
Judging from Xiao Die'er's behavior, she was still undeflowered, at least relatively clean. Perhaps he would redeem her—if she could please him.
Having both tempered Qing's arrogance and captured the beautiful and rare young butterfly, Tie Zheng's teasing became even more vigorous, giving Yun Xiangyi no chance to breathe.
Yun Xiangyi had never been so out of control before; her usual resolve was fragile and easily broken.
Ah, what spell had he cast? Why was she so weak? How strange…
The small boat, which usually glided on the tranquil lake, unexpectedly plunged into the sea; even small waves were enough to make the people on board dizzy and disoriented.
With just a lingering kiss, Yun Xiangyi's stiff body and soul suddenly went limp against Tie Zheng's chest.
Seeing that she no longer resisted, Tie Zheng gradually released her swollen and rosy lips.
"Little Butterfly... what's your name?" To lure out her identity, Tie Zheng's hands continued their sweet assault, kneading her full breasts through the silk fabric.
"Ah..." Yun Xiangyi closed her eyes tightly, the tingling pleasure from her chest making her unable to think, instinctively uttering her almost forgotten childhood name. "Moon..."
"Little Moon, you're so beautiful..." Gazing at her flushed cheeks illuminated by the moonlight, Tie Zheng affectionately called her by her perfectly fitting nickname, his loving tone awakening Yun Xiangyi's consciousness.
She frantically pushed Tie Zheng away, her unfocused eyes filled with panic. "No... don't call me that... don't..."
Before Tie Zheng could reach out, the white figure had already turned and entered the house, locking the door behind him.
"Little Moon..." Tie Zheng pounded on the door, but received no response.
He could have broken down the door, but her panicked and helpless expression before leaving made him reluctant to do so, thinking that his abruptness had frightened the beauty.
Xiao Yue'er was, after all, an inexperienced young girl; though outwardly cold, she possessed an immense inner passion—a woman just his type. Tie Zheng resolved to return the next day to find the young lady, determined to redeem Xiao Yue'er no matter the cost. Having
made up his mind, Tie Zheng glanced back at the tightly closed door before leaping downstairs.
Xiao Yue'er…my Xiao Yue'er…
the long-forgotten call echoed in Yun Xiangyi's ears. She covered her ears tightly with her hands, crouching behind the door, shaking her head repeatedly, trying to shake off the nightmare entrenched in her memory.
Why was this name, which she had so deliberately forgotten so long ago, being brought up again
? The facade she had deliberately created was so fragile; a mere touch from someone else was enough to destroy it.
It was all his fault! It was all that arrogant and domineering man who had pierced the protective barrier she had painstakingly built, allowing the past to find her all at once.
She didn't want to be tainted by these unnecessary emotions! She was no longer the innocent Xiaoyue'er; she was Yun Xiangyi—a mere shell, devoid of emotion and love, only capable of selling smiles.
Yun Xiangyi covered her ears, closed her eyes tightly, and repeatedly uttered this phrase in her heart, gradually calming her mind like a spell. After a long while, she slowly lowered her hands, raised her resolute face, and a smile appeared on her lips.
The smile was exquisitely beautiful, yet it revealed no soul.
Chapter Two
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The next day, Tie Zheng planned to visit Caichun Pavilion again that evening to discuss Xiaoyue'er's redemption with Miss Qing, but a piece of earth-shattering news disrupted his plans.
Around noon, news spread that Prince Jing had confirmed Yun Xiangyi's redemption and was preparing to welcome her into his household next month in a bridal sedan chair carried by eight men; Tie Rou fainted on the spot upon hearing the news, and upon waking, she even attempted suicide.
Tie Zheng could not tolerate Shan Qingyu's willful actions; his behavior had already damaged the marriage agreement between the two families, clearly showing that he did not respect the General's Mansion.
Putting aside Xiaoyue'er's matter for the moment, Tie Zheng stormed into Prince Jing's residence, ready to confront Prince Jing.
Faced with Tie Zheng's righteous and stern reprimand, Prince Jing replied with a smirk, "If General Tie can't stand it, you can annul the engagement! Anyway, the old men who made the betrothal are long gone, why care about their casual jokes..."
He then casually placed the jade mandarin ducks—the heirlooms passed down through generations—on the table, completely disregarding the Tie family's reputation and even Tie Rou's honor.
"You want to break off the engagement?" Tie Zheng's piercing eyes were filled with rage.
This marriage between the two great families was common knowledge, and Tie Zheng planned to go to Prince Jing's residence next year when his sister turned sixteen to demand the fulfillment of the engagement; now Prince Jing wanted to break off the engagement, all because of a courtesan!
"I didn't say that! I just proposed a win-win solution..." Shan Qingyu's phoenix eyes, more alluring than a woman's, flickered, completely ignoring Tie Zheng's anger. "If the woman breaks off the engagement, everyone will only say that I, Prince Jing, am a heartless and philanderer. Anyway, I'm already infamous, so one more charge won't matter!"
Shan Qingyu said lightly, but Tie Zheng's anger flared even more. "Don't you care at all about Rou'er's reputation?"
Regardless of whether the man or woman initiates the annulment, the woman will bear the stigma of being a discarded wife for life. His sister certainly couldn't bear such a blow. Especially the criticism and stares from the outside world, like poisoned arrows, could be enough to kill her.
Shan Qingyu's brows furrowed, his eyes filled with helplessness, a stark contrast to his previous nonchalance. "Is a woman's reputation more important than happiness?" These words, spoken softly, revealed a hint of bitterness.
Tie Zheng, however, took them as an excuse. "Happiness is simply that you don't let that lowly prostitute into your home, and you marry Rou'er as promised!"
"Sigh, men are always so wishful thinking!" Shan Qingyu retorted to Tie Zheng, his tone somewhat agitated. "Does love have a distinction of social status? Does happiness only come from marriage between equals? Does a woman... have to marry to find happiness?"
His accusatory question lashed out at Tie Zheng, who answered without hesitation: "It's only natural."
He had never even considered this question. This world is inherently male-dominated, and women are supposed to be appendages under men's wings, their husbands their heaven. Powerful and influential nobles like them would naturally choose marriage partners of equal social standing. Prince Jing is also a man, his power at its zenith; how could he not understand this principle? Shan
Qingyu was taken aback at first, then resumed his usual arrogant demeanor. "Haha! What a pathetic world!"
"Don't change the subject. I'll ask you one question: do you want to fulfill the marriage contract?" Tie Zheng's burly body suddenly approached Shan Qingyu, looking down on Shan Qingyu, who was a head shorter than him, with the imposing aura of Mount Tai, thinking that this would force him to submit.
He'd had enough! He'd been rebuffed at Caichun Pavilion, and now this brat was toying with him. He wouldn't let these people manipulate him again.
"If Miss Tie and Yiyi could be sisters, and both women could share one husband, I, Shan, would certainly welcome it!" Shan Qingyu replied with his usual smirk, his implication that marrying Yun Xiangyi was inevitable.
"Aren't you afraid I'll report you to the Emperor and punish you for breaking your engagement?"
Tie Zheng practically spat out the words, but Shan Qingyu remained completely innocent. "Heh! I never said I wouldn't marry your sister, so how can I break my engagement? Besides, the Emperor didn't forbid me from taking a courtesan as a concubine!"
Tie Zheng clenched his fists, wanting to kill this seemingly weak brat; he believed one punch would be enough.
However, his words weren't without merit. Prince Jing is currently the Emperor's most favored minister. Although he and the Emperor grew up together, Jiajun is particularly fond of Shan Qingyu and will ultimately persuade him to prioritize peace.
He must devise a way to satisfy both sides, one that can dampen Prince Jing's arrogance while still making him willingly fulfill the marriage agreement.
"What a heartless Prince Jing! We'll see!"
Cherry blossoms fluttered down, indistinguishable from mist.
The cherry blossom grove behind Feima Temple in the western suburbs was as tranquil as a paradise.
Yun Xiangyi stood alone in the grove, like a lifeless statue, letting the cherry blossoms fall on her like rain.
On the first day of each month, Qing Guniang would book the entire Feima Temple, leading the sisters of Caichun Pavilion up the mountain to burn incense and pray for blessings. The large group of beauties inevitably attracted the attention of passersby. Fortunately, Xiong Qi's men were on both sides, otherwise, it would have caused a commotion.
Yun Xiangyi, who never sought divine intervention, followed along the mountain, simply wanting to savor this peaceful moment.
What use was praying to gods and Buddhas when even one's own fate was beyond control? Many things, if not forced, would naturally bring no sense of loss. She had understood this principle long ago. She
was supposed to enter Prince Jing's residence today, but ten days ago, things took a turn for the worse.
She heard that Prince Jing's fiancée, Tie Rou, had swallowed the Forget-Soul Herb and fallen into a deep sleep, despite the imperial physicians' best efforts. The Emperor, enraged, forbade Prince Jing from welcoming Yun Xiangyi into the palace, and further instructed Shan Qingyu to marry Tie Rou immediately upon her awakening, and forbade her to take any other wives or concubines.
Entering the Prince's residence was irrelevant to her; it was merely moving from a magnificent cage to an even more prestigious prison. She found Tie Rou's actions utterly foolish and laughable. Why would she risk her life for someone who could never love her?
What was love anyway? With love, one could be arbitrarily blackmailed and betrayed. In this world, what use is love?
Yun Xiangyi gazed up at the fluttering cherry blossoms, her slightly upturned lips seeming to mock the falseness of love.
But no matter how open-minded she was, the ripples stirred by that lecherous man within her still lingered in the secluded corners of her heart.
She couldn't think about it anymore; it was just an accident…
"Yun Xiangyi,"
a man's voice suddenly called from behind as she pondered. Yun Xiangyi instinctively turned around, but before she could even see the man's face clearly, she lost consciousness and fell into his arms.
"Hmm…"
Yun Xiangyi slowly opened her eyes, feeling as if she had just woken from a long dream, her mind hazy, a sharp pain shooting through her neck and back.
Her gaze slowly focused, and she recognized the floral pattern of the bed curtains, realizing with a start that this wasn't the familiar Xiangyun Waterside Pavilion.
What was going on? She slowly rose and looked around the unfamiliar room, only to meet a sharp gaze shooting from the corner.
The backlit figure obscured the man's features, but his robust physique and facial contours seemed somewhat familiar.
"As expected of a courtesan who's seen it all; she's not surprised to see a man in the room." Tie Zheng had predicted she'd wake up at this time; the Seven-Day Intoxication drug was indeed as effective as its reputation suggested.
Upon hearing the voice, Yun Xiangyi immediately thought of the man who had harassed her that day. Only when Tie Zheng got up and walked to the bedside did Yun Xiangyi confirm it was him. However, the man's eyes no longer held the fiery intensity of that day; they were as cold as a deadly sword.
Seeing him, the turmoil in her heart clamored to break through the barriers of memory…
Yun Xiangyi tried to concentrate, to figure out her current situation. Where was she? How did she get here? Why was he here too?
Despite the turmoil in her thoughts, she didn't let her emotions show on her face, still meeting his cold gaze with a blank expression.
Tie Zheng's heart wasn't as calm as his outward appearance. After kidnapping Yun Xiangyi that day, he boarded the prepared carriage and traveled for seven days and seven nights to return to the general's mansion located at the border garrison. During this time, surprise and anger had been eroding his thoughts.
The moment he learned that Xiaoyue'er was Yun Xiangyi, he wanted nothing more than to kill this hypocritical woman. She
had deliberately feigned innocence in front of him, and he had almost believed she was a virgin, even considering redeeming her. He blamed
himself for his momentary lust, almost being bewitched by the lowly prostitute who had caused his sister's unbearable suffering.
"What, now that your patron has arrived, shouldn't you be undressing and using all your seductive tricks to please me?" Tie Zheng vented his pent-up resentment and disappointment, humiliating Yun Xiangyi to the extreme.
He wanted her to pay the same heavy price as his sister… no! She had to suffer double the pain!
But the merciless sarcasm was utterly meaningless to Yun Xiangyi; she only wanted to leave. She had a premonition that this man would destroy everything she had painstakingly built.
"This servant doesn't recognize you, young master. This isn't a place for me. I want to return to Caichun Pavilion." Yun Xiangyi slowly got out of bed, her legs so weak she could barely stand. She could only try to walk towards the door by holding onto the bedpost.
Her cold and distant response surprised Tie Zheng. They had clearly had intimate contact, yet she had completely distanced herself from him in just a few days, clearly not taking him seriously.
"You don't recognize me? I don't know if my seduction that day wasn't strong enough, or if the number one courtesan in the capital had so many guests that she forgot about that little incident on the terrace... But..."
Without warning, Tie Zheng pushed Yun Xiangyi down onto the bed, then grabbed her hands and pinned them to her sides. "I don't mind bringing back your memories."
He ripped open her outer garment, revealing a white bodice embroidered with clouds underneath. Her delicate, fair skin and the heaving breasts beneath the bodice were immediately apparent.
"Indeed, a born courtesan, you have plenty of assets to seduce men. No wonder Prince Jing was willing to oppose our Tie family to marry you."
The more alluring the woman before him, the deeper his resentment and the stronger his aroused desire!
This courtesan, who had been with a thousand men and tasted by ten thousand, effortlessly aroused his desire, making him like a lustful youth wanting to strip her naked and do whatever he wanted to her.
The first woman to make him lose control of his desire was the main culprit who turned his sister into a living dead. Lust and hatred intertwined in his heart, and Tie Zheng's breathing became heavy and uneasy.
The heavy breath on her face, Yun Xiangyi silently endured Tie Zheng's anger, pondering his words.
She could roughly guess that the Prince Jing of the Tie family was Tie Rou's brother—General Tie Zheng—and the purpose of kidnapping her.
Sigh! Why should a woman bear the burden of a man's mistakes? She should have known this was possible…
"If you want this body, then take it!" Looking directly at the man above her, whose face was flushed, Yun Xiangyi calmly uttered these words, as if discussing something unrelated.
If this body could allow him to vent his resentment, she didn't care; after all, Yun Xiangyi was just a beautiful body.
Her indifferent tone and expression instantly extinguished Tie Zheng's lust, and also reminded him of her origins.
Only a prostitute would be so indifferent to her own body; his humiliation had no effect on her, instead drawing her headlong into a whirlpool of lust.
Tie Zheng was furious at his loss of control.
"I forgot that prostitutes are used to coming and going, and having sex with any man should be commonplace for you..." Tie Zheng rose with disgust, "With this worn-out body, I'd rather have you than not!"
He turned his face away, no longer looking at the alluring body on the bed, "Put your clothes on properly. This isn't a brothel. You can't just lie there with your legs spread and live a life of luxury."
Yun Xiangyi mechanically propped herself up, quietly gathering her torn clothes, and simply untangling her disheveled hair, letting her long, black hair cascade down her back. "Since you don't want my body, sir, could you let Xiangyi return to Caichun Pavilion?"
If he despised her, what was his purpose in kidnapping her? Didn't men all use the abuse of women to demonstrate their dominance? Yun Xiangyi didn't understand Tie Zheng's intentions.
"Go back to Caichun Pavilion and you'll be seducing other women's husbands again," Tie Zheng thought, believing she was either incredibly naive or feigning ignorance. "You've harmed Rou'er so badly; don't think you can get away with it. You can only stay here now and atone for your sins!"
Tie Zheng forcefully gripped Yun Xiangyi's arm and dragged her out of the house.
Despite not being able to keep up and feeling a sharp pain in her gripped arm, Yun Xiangyi refused to beg for mercy, simply staggering behind Tie Zheng.
The two arrived at another courtyard, clearly a side room built specifically for his daughter.
Although Tie Rou mostly lived in the capital, Tie Zheng still built a courtyard for his sister so she could use it occasionally when she came to stay.
Entering the exquisitely decorated front hall and then the inner room, the old woman and maid Shuang'er, who had been sitting by the reclining pillar, immediately stood up and curtsied to Tie Zheng.
"General."
The two stared wide-eyed at Yun Xiangyi, whose arm was still being held by Tie Zheng, clearly stunned.
"General, who is this...?" The old woman was Tie Rou's wet nurse, who had raised her since childhood, and she and the Tie siblings were like family. Since Tie Rou's accident, she had stayed by the sickbed day and night, never leaving her side.
"She is the new servant, Yue'er..." Tie Zheng did not release Yun Xiangyi, nor did he offer any further explanation, focusing instead on his younger sister on the bed. "Wet nurse, how is Rou'er's condition?"
"Nothing has changed." The wet nurse tenderly stroked the thin face on the sickbed.
"Wet nurse, you should go back to your room and rest. I will take care of Rou'er."
"Then... we'll go now." Although she was suspicious of Yue'er's identity, the wet nurse understood Tie Zheng's temperament and left without asking further questions, leading Shuang'er away.
After the two left, Tie Zheng gave a forceful shove, pushing Yun Xiangyi down in front of the bed, the force causing her knees to hit the footboard in front of the bed.
"Look at the mess you two have made! My dear sister, you've turned her into a living dead!" Tie Zheng accused through gritted teeth.
Then he pulled Yun Xiangyi up, pressing her head with his large hand, bringing her face close to Tie Rou's peaceful sleeping face.
"While you and Shan Qingyu were enjoying your sweet love, Rou'er was secretly weeping... When you were happily preparing to elope with that heartless man, Rou'er chose to swallow the Forget-Soul Grass, preferring to sleep forever rather than see the ugly world... Did you think about any of this?"
Yun Xiangyi's knees ached, tears streaming down her face. She stared silently at the seemingly sleeping Tie Rou, a tear welling up in her eyelashes and landing on Tie Rou's cheek.
"So you feel remorse now? It's too late!" Tie Zheng noticed the tear, assuming it was a sign of regret.
He used his fingers to lift Yun Xiangyi's pointed chin, forcibly turning her face towards him.
Her eyes, glistening with tears, shone even brighter, droplets clinging to her long, fan-like eyelashes, making her appear pitiful.
But Tie Zheng quickly shook off these inappropriate emotions. "What's wrong? You have nothing to say?"
His large, heavy hand tightened its grip, almost crushing her delicate, pointed jaw. "As long as Rou'er doesn't wake up, you won't have a single day of peace. From now on, I want you to stay by her side at all times, not leaving her side for a moment, until she wakes up."
All this trouble started because of her. If Rou'er remained asleep, he wouldn't allow her to leave for the rest of her life; if Rou'er were to perish, he would make her pay with her life! He
imagined that the capital was in an uproar over Yun Xiangyi's disappearance, and that brat Shan Qingyu would surely have dispatched a large force to search everywhere. Although the Emperor had allowed Tie Zheng to stay in the capital to care for his sister, Tie Zheng left early, citing the need for a general at the border, and took Tie Rou with him so he could care for her more easily.
Now that he's back on his own turf, he's not afraid of Shan Qingyu coming after him!
Yun Xiangyi knelt before the bed, sighing inwardly at Tie Rou.
Why bother? Why put herself in this situation for someone she could never love?
As soon as she approached, she strongly sensed the message emanating from Tie Rou. Her soul wandered helplessly on the path of the dead, wanting to return but unable to find its way.
Since she was involved in this matter, it seemed there was no escaping it...
Yun Xiangyi seemed to have made a great decision. She took a deep breath, then reached out and gently stroked Tie Rou's sleeping face, then slowly moved it to the top of her head and gently rubbed it, silently chanting, "Tie Rou, come back! Your soul belongs only to this body. Your family is here, worried about you. Come back! Tie Rou..."
"What are you doing? Get up and prepare to serve Rou'er!" Seeing her unusual behavior, Tie Zheng quickly waved her hand away to prevent her from doing anything harmful to Tie Rou.
Interrupted, Yun Xiangyi could only sigh helplessly. Sure enough, no one could accept it. She shouldn't have broken her vow and revealed the secret she had been trying so hard to hide.
However, just before being interrupted, she had already touched Tie Rou's soul and should be able to return to its original state soon, though she still needed to exert even more effort.
Holding onto the bed frame, she slowly rose, but as soon as she let go, the pain in her knees made her legs buckle, and her whole body leaned backward. Tie Zheng caught her in time, pulling her delicate, weak body into his arms.
Their eyes met; Yun Xiangyi was surprised that he would save her—he should hate her, shouldn't he?
Tie Zheng realized his inappropriate actions and immediately loosened his grip, almost causing Yun Xiangyi to fall again, but thankfully she caught the bed frame in time.
"As expected of the most beautiful courtesan in the capital, so charming and alluring when she feigns weakness. Too bad this trick won't fool me..."
Tie Zheng was convinced Yun Xiangyi was a woman of deep cunning. To prevent her from harming Tie Rou with any schemes, he needed to keep her on her guard. "Listen, don't try anything behind my back. If anything happens to Rou'er again, I'll make sure you pay with your life!"
"I only want to help Miss Tie," Yun Xiangyi replied matter-of-factly, her face as pale as if she might faint at any moment, causing Tie Zheng to frown.
Why had her once rosy cheeks suddenly lost all color
? Damn it! Why did he care so much about her complexion? He deliberately raised his voice, displeased, and reprimanded her, "From now on, you are a servant of the Tie family. You must address Rou'er as 'Miss,' and refer to yourself as 'this servant.'"
"This servant understands," Yun Xiangyi obediently replied, offering no further explanation.
From a pampered courtesan to a servant overnight, she remained calm.
For a puppet, it has no sense of where it is.

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