[Fantasy] A Strange Encounter with an Immortal (Complete) - 13-15

Chapter Nine: A Daughter-in-Law's Abode

Zhu Chuanzong returned to the Hanlin Academy and heard that He Zhixiao was ill and had taken leave from class. He thought to himself, "That guy deserves it. He dared to make a move on my sister; he deserved to be taught a lesson. He always got what he wanted, but this time he's learned his lesson and won't be so arrogant anymore." Thinking of his elegant and beautiful sister, who showed no respect to the sons of high-ranking officials but was completely devoted to him, he felt quite satisfied and proud.

That day, Zhu Chuanzong ate breakfast while reading the official gazette. Since returning to the capital from Ningzhi Province, he had developed the habit of reading the gazette every day. After a while, he frowned, feeling somewhat displeased. The gazette contained the following news: This morning, amidst his busy schedule, Left Prime Minister Li Yiheng took time to visit a market in the capital to listen to the voices of the people and understand their hardships.

The Left Prime Minister visited a grain store and inquired about the sale of rice, flour, and oil. The Left Prime Minister asked, "How much are the steamed buns? Have they gone up in price?" The waiter replied, "Four copper coins each, no price increase." "

And the rolled noodles?" "No, they haven't gone up either!" Prime Minister Li was very satisfied and nodded. He then went to the tofu shop next door and asked, "How much is the tofu?" The Left Prime Minister pointed to the steaming freshly made tofu.

The shop owner said, "Nine copper coins a pound, the price has remained unchanged. We common people are very grateful for your concern, Your Excellency!" Minister Zhang, the Vice Minister of Revenue of the capital, who was standing nearby, reported to Prime Minister Li, "In recent months, in response to the rising prices of some grains and oils, the capital has increased the supply. Prices for everyday foods like steamed buns have not been adjusted. However, the prices of grains and flour have increased to some extent."

"How do you feel about the price increase?" Left Prime Minister Li Yiheng asked a commoner who was buying rice.

"Thank you for your concern, sir. We live in a peaceful and prosperous era, and we still have some money. This price increase won't affect us much,"

the commoner said excitedly. "Our lives are very good." "

I'm relieved that the people are living in peace!" said Left Chancellor Li Yiheng.

Passersby, hearing that Left Chancellor Li Yiheng had come to the shop, all came forward to kowtow and pay their respects.

Left Chancellor Li Yiheng inquired about their well-being and chatted warmly with them. The people were moved by his concern and praised the Emperor's wisdom and boundless grace. The lamps burned until dusk before the Left Chancellor and his entourage returned to their residence.

Zhu Chuanzong, after reading the news, felt saddened, thinking: "The lives of ordinary people are becoming increasingly difficult. Those merchants all have government backers; they are too ruthless. Lord Li seems to be a good official, but unfortunately, he is too soft-hearted. It's a pity I'm still too lowly. If I were to take power in the future, I would definitely kill all these bloodsucking corrupt officials." Feeling quite displeased, he went out for a walk to clear his head.

The streets were bustling with activity, teeming with people. Zhu Chuanzong strolled around for a while, finding it interesting despite not being a frequent visitor. Growing tired, he entered a teahouse to rest.

The waiter, beaming with enthusiasm, refilled the teapot upon his arrival.

The teahouse was lively, frequented by retired officials, wealthy merchants, and even the fathers of officials enjoying their retirement. Therefore, the teahouse had many comfortable and luxurious private rooms, each named to reflect the patron's status and rank, such as Hanlin scholar, academician, junior minister, and vice minister. The people of

the Great Liang Kingdom's penchant for empty fame was on full display here. These people were terrified that others wouldn't know what they did; they walked with an air of superiority, as if their backs bore the inscription of their official or wealthy status. Wherever they went, whether in restaurants, taverns, or brothels, they maintained a haughty demeanor, emphasizing so-called refined taste. In short: as long as they had an empty reputation, nothing else mattered.

The teahouse owner, recognizing this, catered to these people's tastes, seating them in private rooms befitting their status when they came to the teahouse for a break. The satisfaction and sense of pride they felt seemed to transport them back to their triumphant past, as they sipped tea and recounted their glorious exploits.

Zhu Chuanzong had never seen a teahouse like this before. Every room was filled with loud, boastful talk, unlike the teahouses he'd frequented in smaller towns. Just then, several retired soldiers entered a private room marked "Commander-in-Chief," bragging loudly about their past battles, their kills, and their ability to take on a hundred men single-handedly, as if they were once seasoned officers leading troops across battlefields.

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing their voices as if they wanted everyone to hear, felt great disdain and was about to leave when he suddenly saw Xue Hongju stagger in.

Zhu Chuanzong hurriedly called him over, and Xue Hongju came to his side, laughing, "What are you doing here? We scholars should be there."

He then pulled him to a private room marked "Hanlin Academy." A tea server came and served tea.

Xue Hongju said to the tea server, "You just said 'Please drink tea,' but strictly speaking, that's not quite right. It should be 'Please savor tea.' Although it's only a one-word difference, 'drink' is vulgar, while 'savor' is more refined and elegant."

Regardless of whether the tea server was listening or not, Xue Hongju continued his rambling, from a certain dynasty that considered tea a tribute to the emperor, to the scholar who researched the methods of making tribute tea and wrote "Daguan Tea Treatise," and so on. After he finished, the tea server still smiled and stayed, showing no sign of leaving. Only then did he realize that this wasn't the Hanlin Academy, and the tea server wasn't his student; he was just waiting to collect the tea money.

Zhu Chuanzong paid with a smile and said, "Uncle, where did you drink so much? Let me take you home!" Xue Hongju replied, "I didn't drink too much. I know you're a student of the Hanlin Academy. Don't look down on this old man. I also passed the imperial examination. If someone hadn't impersonated me, I would have been in the Hanlin Academy long ago! Maybe I'd be a high-ranking official now! That would have brought honor to my ancestors, how glorious!" Zhu Chuanzong found his rambling annoying and said, "Uncle Xue, who's in your family? It's so late and you're still not home. He must be worried about you!" He had asked the old man about his family before, but he hadn't paid attention and had long forgotten.

Xue Hongju laughed, "I only have one daughter, hehe, and speaking of my daughter, she's no exaggeration. She's gentle and virtuous, and her beauty surpasses that of a celestial being. Countless sons of princes and ministers have pursued her! But she just won't accept them. She's also intelligent and capable; she's mastered our family's ancestral needlework skills perfectly. My daughter is just too proud!" Zhu Chuanzong, however, was unconvinced and laughed, "You have such a wonderful daughter, why don't you hurry back so she doesn't worry about you?"

With that, he helped him out of the teahouse.

Along the way, although Xue Hongju's legs were unsteady, his mouth never stopped, constantly praising how wonderful his daughter was. He said, "My daughter is the most filial daughter in the world. For so many years I've been idle, and she's supported me, yet she's never said a bad word about me."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "How old is she?" Xue Hongju counted on his fingers and said, "Nineteen, born at the hour of Chou (1-3 AM). She's a grown girl now, time to get married."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "You just said she's supported you for so many years! How old was she when she started working?" Xue Hongju sighed, "She knew how to support the family from thirteen. She's truly a good child." "Son."

Zhu Chuanzong had thought that pointing out the flaws in his story would stop him from exaggerating, but his explanation sounded so convincing, as if he really did have a daughter. Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but ask suspiciously, "So you say your daughter is very beautiful?" Xue Hongju replied, "Yes, she looks like her mother who died young. Her mother was a palace maid, hehe, her looks were one in a thousand."

Zhu Chuanzong believed him more and more. Before he knew it, they had arrived at Xue Hongju's house, but no one was home. Xue Hongju was asleep and had closed the door to a small room next door. Zhu Chuanzong dared not go in. After waiting a while, as darkness fell, he chuckled to himself, thinking, "How foolish I was to believe this drunkard. Besides, where in the world could there be someone as good as he described? Even if such a person existed, she certainly wouldn't be as beautiful as he claimed. A poor man's daughter always has to work, exposed to the wind and sun; she can't be very beautiful." He then strolled back to the Hanlin Academy.

Before they knew it, the Double Ninth Festival was approaching. The capital was already filled with a festive atmosphere. The students of the Hanlin Academy had somehow acquired a large boat and were enjoying a boat ride on the canal.

Like many students, Zhu Chuanzong stood on the boat, gazing at the scenery on both banks. The sky was high and the air crisp, and the picturesque views on both sides were truly delightful.

Most of the students from the Hanlin Academy on the boat were ostensibly there to admire the scenery, but as everyone has a love for beauty, they were generally there to see the beautiful women. Whenever a woman passed by on the shore, everyone vied to look.

After a while, the boat passed a dock where a group of women were washing clothes. Among them, one exceptionally beautiful woman stood out. She appeared to be eighteen or nineteen years old, wearing a lotus-colored outer garment over a white cloth shirt, and a gray silk skirt. Although her clothes were simple, her demeanor was elegant, exuding a dignified and independent spirit. Her face was like a fairy's, her complexion like snow, and she smiled without speaking. Her face was like a delicate flower with dew, and her waist was like a slender willow, graceful and charming. Even while washing clothes, she seemed to be performing a dance, her movements graceful and elegant. The students on the boat gasped in admiration. Someone shouted, and the others laughed. Zhu Chuanzong, captivated by her beauty, didn't hear what they were saying.

Hearing the sound, the woman looked up and saw a group of people staring at her. Her face flushed, and perhaps she had finished washing her clothes, so she and her companions turned and left with them.

Zhu Chuanzong remained stunned as she disappeared from sight. Suddenly, Huang Qi laughed, "Don't you recognize her? She's a famous beauty here!" Zhu Chuanzong realized what she meant and said, "How could I not know! There's such an extraordinary beauty here? Who is she?" Huang Qi laughed, "So your friendship with Old Man Xue wasn't for her! I was wondering why you looked so surprised earlier!" Zhu Chuanzong said, "Old Man Xue? What's your relationship with him?" Huang Qi said, "That girl is Old Man Xue's daughter, Xue Jinxian. She's a skilled seamstress, famous far and wide. Many scholars in the Hanlin Academy..." People even send their clothes to her for mending! Some don't care about her skills, they just want to see her. She's quite an extraordinary woman! Zhu Chuanzong exclaimed in disbelief, "Is that so? I didn't know?" Huang Qi said, "I know your character, brother, otherwise I would have thought you were getting close to Old Man Xue for his daughter. But she's no ordinary person, don't be rash."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "You speak so highly of her, I'd like to see for myself."

Huang Qi laughed heartily and said, "Actually, you two are quite a good match, but what a pity!" He shook his head and left.

Zhu Chuanzong was puzzled, thinking, "What's a pity?" Thinking of Xue Jinxian's stunning beauty, he couldn't help but think, "I'll go see what's so special about this woman. Brother Huang doesn't praise people easily, there must be a reason why he speaks so highly of her." The next day, Zhu Chuanzong went to visit Xue Hongju. He knocked lightly on the door, knowing that Xue Jinxian wouldn't be there during the day. Seeing the door ajar, he pushed it open and went in.

Unexpectedly, he bumped into a woman, elegant and beautiful, none other than Xue Jinxian. Xue Jinxian asked, "May I ask who you are looking for, young master?" Zhu Chuanzong blurted out, "I'm looking for Old Master Xue;

I've come to see him." Xue Jinxian said, "Then please follow me!" The Xue family's house was a pseudo-courtyard, with only the north and south sides being the main buildings. Although the houses were old, they were still clean. Arriving at the window of the south room where Old Master Xue lived, they heard a groaning sound coming from inside. Xue Jinxian said, "Father! A young master has come to see you."

Zhu Chuanzong went in and saw a quilt folded against the wall on the kang (a heated brick bed), with Xue Hongju lying on it with his head down. He was covered by the quilt, but his arms were exposed. He was as thin as two pieces of withered firewood. Upon closer inspection, his cheeks were gone, his cheekbones were high and protruding, and his eyes were sunken. He was hardly human!

Zhu Chuanzong exclaimed in surprise, "Uncle, it's only been a short time since we last met, and you've become so ill? What happened?" Seeing Zhu Chuanzong approach, Xue Hongju nodded slightly and said haltingly, "...You...you are...a good friend! I'm dying, and yet a friend still comes to see me! It's true what they say, true friendship is revealed in times of trouble!" Seeing him like this, Zhu Chuanzong felt a pang of sadness and asked, "Uncle, what's wrong?" Xue Jinxian, standing nearby, said, "We consulted a doctor who said my father has caught a cold, but after taking many medicines, he's not getting better. It seems his illness is quite serious."

Zhu Chuanzong asked, "Did you go to the hospital? Those unlicensed doctors can't cure some illnesses."

Xue Jinxian's face paled slightly, and Xue Hongju said, "We're poor people; how could we afford to go to such a place?"

Zhu Chuanzong said, "It's all my fault; I should have come to see you sooner. Don't worry, if you want to go, I'll arrange it, okay?" Xue Hongju, lying on the kang (heated brick bed), looked up at Zhu Chuanzong, feeling both moved and surprised. Xue Jinxian glanced at her father's expression and saw that he was very willing to go. She gratefully said to Zhu Chuanzong, "Young master, we are truly grateful for your kindness. However, treatment in the hospital will cost a lot of money!" Zhu Chuanzong replied, "Don't worry about that. Treatment is the priority, please don't be so polite."

Seeing that things had come to this point and someone was offering help, Xue Jinxian couldn't refuse for her father's sake. She stopped being polite and said, "I heard that family members can't stay in the hospital with their father?" She was worried that if her father's illness worsened and he passed away, she would regret not being there to help.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "It's alright. We'll find a private room so the family can be together, making it easier for you to take care of him. I think your father's illness can't be delayed for even a moment. You should prepare first, and I'll arrange it."

He then took out ten taels of silver from his pocket, placed it on the kang (heated brick bed), and said, "The old man has been ill for so long; he must need money. Please take this money first, and I'll come back if needed later."

With that, he walked out. He left in such a hurry that the Xue father and daughter didn't even have time to thank him.

Xue Jinxian followed behind him all the way to the front door, watching him until he was out of sight before blankly returning to the house.

Inside, she saw her father looking at the silver, smiling slightly, "Jinxian! Heaven, heaven never closes all doors..." He waved his hands and gestured as he spoke, his smile gradually fading, but two glistening tears streamed down his face, dripping onto the pillow. Xue Jinxian felt a bittersweet feeling in her heart, and smiled, "It's rare for Father to have such a friend. I've never heard Father mention him before. I forgot to ask his name earlier."

Xue Hongju first told him Zhu Chuanzong's name, and then slowly recounted how he met Zhu Chuanzong. Xue Jinxian said, "Father, your illness will definitely get better. Otherwise, how could it be such a coincidence that after spending all your money, someone would come to your aid today?" She then offered a few words of comfort, and Xue Hongju felt much more at ease.

A patient's condition is often influenced by their mental state, and that morning, Xue Hongju felt extremely anxious because his illness was severe and he had no way to raise money for medical expenses. His condition naturally worsened. Now that someone had promised to find him a hospital and had given him the money to spend, he suddenly felt comforted and his spirits lifted. After Zhu Chuanzong left, he asked his daughter to pack her luggage to go to the hospital, feeling very happy.

Zhu Chuanzong returned to the Hanlin Academy and instructed Zhao Laosi to make arrangements at the hospital. He then took Wang Daniu to pick up the patient. Just as they stepped outside, they encountered Huang Qi. Huang Qi asked him what he was doing, and he explained. Huang Qi smiled and said, "Saving people is the right thing to do, but…" Zhu Chuanzong asked, "What does Brother Huang want to say?" Huang Qi said, "Don't flaunt your wealth or reveal your status. Although she is from a poor family, she dislikes associating with the powerful and wealthy."

Zhu Chuanzong replied, "I know, I'm not doing this for her. I'm really doing this for the old man; he's a good man."

Huang Qi smiled and said, "Alright, I know your character."

Watching him hurriedly leave, he turned and went away himself.

Zhu Chuanzong took Xue Hongju to the hospital. Zhao Laosi ran over and asked, "Young Master, the hospital asked if it's publicly funded or privately funded?" Zhu Chuanzong frowned and said, "Privately funded, but tell the doctors to take good care of him. Don't worry about the cost. Just say I'm a student of the Hanlin Academy, and the person hospitalized is my uncle. They can't neglect him. I know these people at the hospital treat people differently based on their status. Go and smooth things over. If anything goes wrong, they'll hold you responsible."

Zhao Laosi said, "Don't worry, Young Master."

Xue Hongju received excellent treatment at the hospital, and his condition gradually improved. Zhu Chuanzong was originally worried that his condition wouldn't improve and was planning to invite a doctor from the Imperial Medical Academy to examine him. Now that he saw it wasn't necessary, he breathed a sigh of relief, avoiding the trouble.

Xue Jinxian stayed with her father at the hospital. Zhu Chuanzong wanted to visit her every day, but the hospital was crowded, and although Xue Jinxian was very polite, she didn't talk to him much. Zhu Chuanzong felt that Xue Jinxian was like a cloud in the sky, unpredictable. Plus, Xue Hongju's illness was gradually improving, so he didn't need to visit so often, and his desire to go lessened.

A few days later, Xue Hongju, seeing that he was feeling better, was discharged from the hospital and went home to recuperate.

Zhu Chuanzong happened to go to visit him that day, but found him empty. Knowing he had been discharged, he went to his house instead. Entering the room, Zhu Chuanzong saw Xue Hongju sitting against a high quilt, looking much better. Xue Jinxian was doing needlework beside him. Seeing him arrive, she smiled and offered him a seat. Zhu Chuanzong greeted him with a smile, then said to Xue Hongju, "Uncle, you're really better! Why didn't you stay in the hospital a little longer? I wonder how your diet is now?" Xue Hongju replied, "Thank you so much. I'm almost recovered. Hospitals are so expensive. If it weren't for you saving my life, would I still be in the hospital? As soon as I felt better, I left without telling you. I'll definitely repay you when I'm fully recovered."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "You're too kind. I already..." "I already said I wouldn't mention repaying your kindness, why are you bringing it up again? My family is doing alright, if we're friends, please don't bring it up again."

Xue Jinxian said, "Young Master! We don't know how to repay your kindness. If we can't even express our gratitude, we feel even more guilty."

Zhu Chuanzong sighed, "Guilty about what? Nowadays, hospital treatment is so expensive, ordinary families simply can't afford it. This is the court's dereliction of duty! As a student of the Hanlin Academy, I should have petitioned the court, but there are too many ills in society now, and even if we wanted to rectify them, we lack good solutions. I truly feel terribly guilty."

Xue Jinxian hadn't expected him to say such things and couldn't help but look at him with new respect.

Xue Hongju had just recovered from his illness and couldn't sit for long, so he lay down to rest. To avoid disturbing him, the two went out. It was the eve of the Double Ninth Festival, the sky was high and the air was crisp, and the two walked along the hillside. The Xue family's house was at the foot of the mountain, a relatively remote place.

Xue Jinxian just walked forward without saying a word, and Zhu Chuanzong, having no free time, had to follow. After walking for about a mile, they came to a clearing with two rocks. Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "This is a good place. I used to come here often when I was a child. But you are a noble young master, you might find this place desolate!" Zhu Chuanzong saw her beautiful face, her crescent-shaped eyebrows, her thick eyelashes, her elegant and proud nose paired with her delicate red lips. Her originally fair face was now flushed from walking, and her fair hands and the smooth, delicate skin on her neck seemed as if it could be broken with a touch. He was stunned for a while before he came to his senses and looked away, saying, "I am indifferent. Since you say this place is good, then let's stay here!" Xue Jinxian was also taken aback when she saw him being captivated by her beauty, yet he suddenly uttered such a natural and spontaneous statement from a Taoist perspective.

Chapter Ten Neighbors

Xue Jinxian and Zhu Chuanzong chatted idly on the mountaintop. Although they had met a few times during Xue Hongju's convalescence, they had rarely spoken and were not familiar with each other.

Xue Jinxian had always suspected that Zhu Chuanzong was only helping her father because of her beauty, but judging from his polite demeanor, that didn't seem like it. She also found herself getting along well with him, so she stopped avoiding talking to him.

Xue Jinxian said, "Young master, from what you were saying just now, it seemed like you didn't care about anything?" Zhu Chuanzong suddenly felt he had to speak his mind. He had been in the Hanlin Academy for over a year, reading extensively, and his experiences in Ningzhi Province had matured him considerably. He was pampered at home; all the beautiful women, except for Xiao Yu, liked him and listened to him, but he felt he lacked a true friend. Xue Jinxian was dignified and generous, seemingly possessing a kind of wisdom, which made him feel that she was someone he could confide in. Although he had helped Xue Jinxian a lot, she hadn't felt ashamed of her status, somewhat like Shui Ling'er; they were both independent, individualistic, and opinionated women.

Seeing him lost in thought, Xue Jinxian said, "Young master, if you have something to say, please speak freely! There's no one else here. When I was little, whenever I encountered something sad, I liked to come here alone and talk to the trees and stones."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "You really do that? That's really interesting. Actually, all things have a spirit; if you talk to them, they understand."

Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "Really? I didn't think of that. I was afraid you'd think I was foolish!" Zhu Chuanzong said, "How could that be! You're a girl with your own opinions. You work outside alone, supporting your ailing father. If you didn't have your own opinions, with your beauty, you would have been taken advantage of long ago."

Xue Jinxian said, "The capital city is finally..." "It's under the emperor's nose, it's not that bad. I'm clumsy and ugly, who would want to take advantage of me?" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "There are probably quite a few who want to keep a mistress in a golden house."

Xue Jinxian said, "If that's really the case, then I'm very lucky."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Mr. Wu once said, 'There is no love above freedom.' I initially ignored it, but after some things happened, I understood this principle."

Xue Jinxian said, "I disagree with that statement. If I said I had no food or clothing and had to sell my freedom to survive, you would definitely look down on me. But let me ask you, isn't loving one's country and the emperor far more noble than any freedom?" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "That's a good question!" "This is the principle the court has always preached, but since there's no one else here, I'll be a little presumptuous. I've read many books and studied the history of many dynasties. If any country or emperor treats its people badly, what's the point of having that country? Those who practice tyranny always end up in terrible situations, unloved by anyone. Ordinary people want a good life, they don't care what country it is, but unfortunately many people don't understand this and are easily fooled."

Xue Jinxian laughed, "Your long-winded explanation seems to make some sense, but love is definitely better than freedom! Throughout history, how many lovesick men and women have risked their lives for it!" Zhu Chuanzong said, "Then if you marry into a wealthy family, you can live a life of luxury..." "You, you're idle all day, but you can't go out freely, and everything you do has to be done according to the rules. Are you willing to accept that?" Before she could answer, he said, "I know you wouldn't. Mr. Huang and I are good friends; that's what he said. And I believe there are quite a few high-ranking officials who admire you. I'm curious, how did you and Mr. Huang meet? It seems you two have some connection?" Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "We met by chance, but we're friends who get along well."

Zhu Chuanzong exclaimed in surprise, "He's very learned, and you can get along with him so well. That shows how insightful you are. No wonder he said you're an extraordinary woman." He

thought to himself, "Before I met Miss Shui, I always secretly regarded women as playthings. Now I realize that not all women are the same. Yes! My maids have been with me for a long time, so naturally they like me. They don't love me because they covet my power." Suddenly, he remembered the tenderness of the women in his household towards him and couldn't help but smile.

Xue Jinxian said, "What are you laughing at? You must be thinking of your sweetheart, otherwise you wouldn't be so sweet."

Zhu Chuanzong asked curiously, "How did you know? Do you have someone you like? Otherwise, how would you know?" Xue Jinxian said, "Some things you don't have to experience to know. Do you have to bang your head against a wall to know how hard it is?" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "You're quite the talker, young lady."

He enjoyed chatting with her like a friend. Zhu Chuanzong had helped her a lot, but she wasn't at all inferior in front of him, which was amazing.

The two chatted for a long time before going back.

After some time, Xue Hongju gradually recovered and moved around freely again. However, after this illness, he thought about how old he was and how he might not be around any day. He couldn't find peace of mind. He still had an unfulfilled wish: to visit the Hanlin Academy, which all scholars admired. Xue Hongshu was also a scholar. Although he knew that at his age, with his talent, he probably wouldn't even be able to become a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations), let alone enter the Hanlin Academy, he was still very eager to see what the Hanlin Academy was like.

He kept it to himself for several days, but he couldn't hold back any longer, so one day after dinner, while chatting with his daughter, he brought up his idea.

Xue Jinxian was taken aback, never expecting her father to be so ignorant despite his studies! According to the laws of the Great Liang Dynasty, unless the Emperor granted permission, even if a Hanlin Academy official brought a relative in without authorization, it would be a capital offense! How could her father not even understand this basic common sense?

Xue Jinxian quickly laughed and said, "Father, it's just like a garden, what's there to see? You should move around more often, don't always stay at home and overthink things!" Xue Hongju sighed, "Although your father doesn't have any official rank, he's still a scholar. Our home is so close to the Hanlin Academy, yet I've never been inside in my entire life. Your father just wants to take a look at the Hanlin Academy, that's enough to live up to the title of 'scholar.' Sigh!" Xue Jinxian said, "Father, why do you have to be like this?"

Xue Hongju said, "I was just saying, I know it won't work."

After saying that, he sighed heavily.

Furthermore, Zhu Chuanzong hadn't visited the Xue family for some time, and Xue Jinxian began to feel suspicious. She thought, "Ever since we had such a pleasant chat on the mountain that day, he's come a few more times. I was afraid he'd take it personally, so I've been very cold to him. Could it be that he's angry with me and has stopped coming? He's been incredibly kind to my family, and it's wrong of me to be so indifferent to him. No wonder he's stopped coming." Thinking this, she paused for a moment, then thought, "What am I doing? If he wants to come, he can come; if he doesn't, so be it. What does it have to do with me?" But her mind was racing, and she couldn't stop thinking about this.

Coincidentally, Zhu Chuanzong arrived the next day at noon. Xue Jinxian usually cooked lunch at home. Seeing him come in, she turned around and said casually to Zhu Chuanzong, "Why are you so busy? I haven't seen you around for a long

time." Zhu Chuanzong replied, "Are you starting a fire? Do you need my help? I'm not busy with anything! Did you need me for something? If I had known, I would have come earlier. What is it?" Xue Jinxian suddenly realized she had let something slip and said, "Nothing. I just haven't seen you for a while, and I was worried something might have happened to you!" Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "Thank you for your concern, I'm fine. I'm just bored at the Hanlin Academy all day, except for reading."

Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "That's good."

Then she lowered her head and didn't say anything more.

Seeing that she wasn't speaking, Zhu Chuanzong couldn't stay there, so he went into the house, greeted Xue Hongju, and chatted for a while. Zhu Chuanzong asked if there was anything he could help with, and Xue Hongju told him about wanting to visit the Hanlin Academy.

Upon hearing this, Xue Jinxian hurriedly came in and advised, "Father, according to the laws of the Great Liang, officials of the Hanlin Academy who bring relatives into the Hanlin Academy without authorization are all beheaded! Besides, Young Master Zhu is just a student! Who would dare to do this? Father, please don't make things difficult for him."

Xue Hongju said, "How could I not know these things! If I didn't understand the laws of the Great Liang, could I have passed the imperial examination? Can't I even just want to see what the Hanlin Academy is like? I was just saying it casually, I didn't really intend to go. Whether you see the Hanlin Academy or not doesn't matter! But I can't even say it, it's really annoying."

After saying this, with two tears in his eyes, he turned around and lay down.

Zhu Chuanzong saw this, smiled and took his leave. Xue Jinxian said, "I'm also going out, why don't you see the young master off?" On the Double Ninth Festival, people like to appreciate chrysanthemums, wear dogwood, carry wine and climb mountains, and enjoy themselves. Moreover, the weather at this time is clear and the autumn wind is refreshing, making it a good time to climb mountains and enjoy the view. The Double Ninth Festival had just passed, and the weather was fine. The two walked along the mountainside, enjoying the scenery along the way.

Zhu Chuanzong stole a glance at Xue Jinxian, noticing her naturally dark eyebrows and red lips, her bright eyes like pools of autumn water. Her two jade-like wrists were smooth and fair, her face dignified, with bright eyes and white teeth. Although she wore coarse cloth, the noble and elegant air she exuded was something even the most refined ladies lacked. He couldn't help but find her even more charming and lovely.

Before Xue Jinxian could say anything, Zhu Chuanzong said, "Are you still angry? Your father is old; let him say what he wants. Why bother controlling him?" Xue Jinxian replied, "I'm not trying to control him; I'm just worried he'll make things difficult for you. This isn't a joke. If you take it seriously, it could be disastrous."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "What if I really take it seriously?" Xue Jinxian's expression immediately changed, and she said, "Then I'll be really annoyed. My father was just saying it casually. If you take it to heart and make me feel guilty, I'll be committing a grave sin."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Don't worry! I don't have that kind of power; I wouldn't dare to do anything reckless."

Xue Jinxian was relieved. The two exchanged a few more words before parting ways.

That night, Zhu Chuanzong lay in bed, his mind filled with Xue Jinxian's voice and laughter. At first, he tried to distract himself by reading, but after a while, he stopped reading, his hand pressing down on the book, staring at the ceiling, as if Xue Jinxian were still talking and laughing with him… The next day at noon, Xue Jinxian went home to cook, only to find his father gone. He asked a neighbor, who said that two people had come in a sedan chair that morning to take him away, but no one knew where they had gone. Xue Jinxian was worried all afternoon, only to see Xue Hongju return that evening, smiling broadly with a satisfied expression.

It turned out that Zhu Chuanzong had gone to see Dean Hua Wenzhang early that morning, saying, "He Zhixiao has a relative, an old scholar who has never passed the imperial examinations. He wants to enter the Hanlin Academy to fulfill his wish, but he knows it's against the law and sighs all day. I see He Zhixiao is worried for him, but he doesn't dare to ask the Prince. If the old scholar passes away, leaving behind a lifelong regret, that wouldn't be good."

Without thinking, Hua Wenzhang called in a subordinate and ordered, "Go to the Hanlin Academy on my orders." The head of the Hanlin Academy guards said, "Tell him a relative of ours wants to visit the Hanlin Academy. Please arrange a time for him, and don't stop him. You and Zhu Chuanzong go and do it!" The man agreed and led Zhu Chuanzong out. Once there, the head of the Hanlin Academy guards said, "Just come to the Hanlin Academy in the morning for official business. Have the guards accompany him. After he's had his fill, no one will know what's going on, and no one will pay attention."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Chuanzong immediately and excitedly told Wang Daniu and the other man to hurry and find Xue Hongju. Xue Hongju's wish was thus fulfilled.

When Xue Jinxian saw his father return and learned what had happened, he became angry and remained silent. Xue Hongju said, "Don't blame your father. These things seem like a huge deal to us, but in the eyes of those officials, they're nothing."

Xue Jinxian said, "I'm not blaming you, I'm worried about Young Master Zhu. If something happens to him, how will we explain it to them?" Xue Hongju laughed, "What's there to explain? If you really feel bad about it, then treat him well in the future, and it'll save me some trouble. A daughter will eventually get married!" Xue Jinxian was stunned and fell silent.

A few days passed, and Zhu Chuanzong still hadn't come to the Xue family. At first, Xue Jinxian blamed him for being rash, but later she became worried, thinking, "He must be afraid I'll scold him, so he doesn't dare to come. It turns out he really is just a good friend of my father's, and he doesn't have any other intentions towards me." Thinking this, she felt bored and didn't work as diligently as usual in the embroidery room during the day.

Coincidentally, the neighbor she had lived next door for more than ten years sold his house and was moving away. Without any prior warning, Xue Jinxian felt a pang of sadness and hadn't been happy for the past few days.

Xue Hongju noticed this and knew exactly what she was thinking. He wanted to go find Zhu Chuanzong, but where could he find him? He couldn't get into the Hanlin Academy, so he could only share in her worries.

Two days later, the neighbors moved into their new home, and Xue Hongju went to pay his respects.

To his surprise, upon seeing the host, he burst into laughter and was no longer worried. That evening, Xue Jinxian returned home to find Zhu Chuanzong there. Overjoyed, she invited him to stay for dinner, which he readily accepted. They stayed until late at night before he finally left.

Xue Jinxian, carrying a lantern, escorted him to the door. After taking a few steps, Zhu Chuanzong said, "Please wait!" Xue Jinxian replied, "This alley is dark; let's go outside."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "But I'm home!" Xue Jinxian was surprised and asked, "You bought this house?" Zhu Chuanzong replied, "Yes, I did."

Xue Jinxian's expression changed, and she turned to leave, seemingly caught between surprise and joy. She stumbled and nearly fell.

Zhu Chuanzong didn't know what she was thinking. He returned to his room and pondered the matter carefully, but couldn't find the answer.

Two days later, Zhu Chuanzong wondered what Xue Jinxian was thinking, whether she was angry. His intention in moving here to be her neighbor was too obvious. If she didn't like it, she would give him a hard time; forcing her would be useless. Why make things difficult for her? So Zhu Chuanzong stopped visiting her often. Xue Hongju, on the other hand, often came to see him with a smile, but he couldn't discern anything amiss from him.

That noon, after lunch, Zhu Chuanzong didn't want to go to class, thinking, "I've had enough fun lately. From today onwards, I should take advantage of my free time to read some important books." So he found two books, faced the window, and spread them out on the table to read. After a while, he fell asleep.

While Zhu Chuanzong was sleeping, he felt something tickling his face. He tried to brush it off several times, but couldn't. When he opened his eyes, Xue Jinxian was standing in front of him, holding a handkerchief. One corner of the handkerchief was dangling from her ear. Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed and stood up, laughing, "What brings you here?" He was captivated by her elegant blue cotton jacket, which made her even more radiant.

Xue Jinxian smiled, "I came to see your home."

She looked around the house and said, "Are you planning to live here? It's not far from the Hanlin Academy, but running around isn't as convenient as living there!" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "It's so stuffy in the academy, nowhere near as quiet as here. Don't think the Hanlin Academy is so great; it's just a bunch of pedantic people running it. You can't learn anything there." Xue Jinxian said,

"That's true. I've seen your homework; it's childish and laughable, nothing interesting. You'd rather not study..." "Good. And those self-important students, thinking they're so great, are actually just a bunch of good-for-nothings!" Zhu Chuanzong found her words very agreeable and felt a sense of kinship with her. He laughed and said, "You're absolutely right. It seems you've read quite a few books, young lady. I'll have to learn from you in the future!" Xue Jinxian giggled and said, "I was just talking nonsense, and you took it seriously. You're so easy to fool."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Are you calling me stupid? I'm getting annoyed." He

then fell silent, leaned back in his chair, and smiled at her.

Xue Jinxian's eyes darted around, and she smiled back. She took off her handkerchief, held it in her right hand, and began to wrap it around the index finger of her left hand, one strand at a time. Her head was slightly lowered, but she didn't look at Zhu Chuanzong.

Zhu Chuanzong remained silent, watching to see when she would stop. After a while, Xue Jinxian suddenly looked up and laughed, "You said you were annoyed, but why are you staring at me like that?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "Yes, I'm annoyed with you! That's why I'm glaring at you!" Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "That's not glaring, it's clearly..." but she couldn't finish her sentence.

Zhu Chuanzong saw her lowered head and shy expression, a unique charm he had never experienced before, and felt incredibly sweet inside. He just looked at her like that, feeling extremely happy.

Seeing the ambiguous atmosphere, Xue Jinxian lowered her head and pondered for a moment before saying, "Let me ask you, who's in your family? You must come from a noble family! Perhaps your father is a high-ranking official in the court!" Zhu Chuanzong replied, "My parents are both alive, and I have an older sister. However, my family runs a business, so we only have some money. It's not as good as you think."

Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "So you're an only child! Then you must be engaged long ago, maybe even have a wife!" Zhu Chuanzong hurriedly said, "No, absolutely not."

Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "You really aren't? No…" As she spoke, she smiled at Zhu Chuanzong.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "I really am not engaged, there's no need to lie about that. Why do you keep asking?" He thought to himself, "She sometimes seems very shy, but she's very open about asking things that most girls wouldn't dare to ask. It's really interesting. Could she have some thoughts on this? I must find out." Seeing Zhu Chuanzong smile, Xue Jinxian felt a little embarrassed. She tugged at the corners of her handkerchief, rubbing it against her knees. After a while, she said, "It's alright to ask!" Zhu Chuanzong said, "It's alright, but you keep asking. I don't know what you mean by that." Xue Jinxian shook her head and smiled, "Nothing."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "You asked me, can I ask you?" Xue Jinxian said, "You know all my family members, what's there to ask? No need to ask."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "That's not fair!" Xue Jinxian turned her head to one side, ignoring his words. On that side of her face, a slight smile appeared, as if she were smiling.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "You're being unreasonable."

Xue Jinxian quickly turned around and said, "How am I being unreasonable?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "I told you everything you asked me. But you didn't say a word about what I asked you. Isn't that unreasonable?" Xue Jinxian said, "It's good for you that I asked you, so I didn't let you ask me!" Zhu Chuanzong asked curiously, "What good is it?" Xue Jinxian said, "To find you a lady of equal social standing! Don't worry, she'll definitely be a good match for you. Don't..." "Don't underestimate my judgment."

Zhu Chuanzong felt as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over his head, his face instantly turning pale. After a long while, he laughed and said, "My standards are very high."

Xue Jinxian said, "Is that so? But since I'm confident, that person must be very good!" Zhu Chuanzong said dreamily, "Is he as good as you?" Xue Jinxian laughed and said, "Much better than me! Otherwise, how could he be worthy of you?" Zhu Chuanzong said helplessly, "Even if he is that good, it's not you!" After saying this, both of them were stunned. It was truly a case of two hearts in one place, yet two minds in two.

In the trailer for "The Immortal's Romance" 5, Zhu Chuanzong, who had been pursuing Xue Jinxian with great difficulty, was repeatedly rejected despite his mutual affection. Unable to understand the feelings of a young woman, he was constantly worried and depressed. Just as he was worrying about this, his sister-in-law Hua Caiyun appeared before him. Would things take a turn for the better?

Reinstated by the Emperor, he solves two thorny cases, earning his reputation as an upright official throughout the country. However, this also means he offends more and more powerful officials. Will his seemingly smooth career continue?

A marriage decree from the Emperor? This concerns his sister Zhu Shuiyue's lifelong happiness, and also his own. How can he smooth things over and persuade the Emperor to rescind his decree, keeping the beauty by his side...? It's a real dilemma!

Episode 5

Synopsis:

Zhu Chuanzong, who has been pursuing Xue Jinxian with unwavering affection, is repeatedly rejected despite his marriage proposals. Unable to understand the woman's feelings, he is constantly worried and depressed. Just then, his sister-in-law Hua Caiyun appears before him. Will things turn around?

Reinstated by the Emperor, he solves two thorny cases, earning his reputation as an upright official throughout the country. However, this also means he offends more and more powerful officials. Will his seemingly smooth career continue?

A marriage decree from the Emperor? This matter concerns his sister Zhu Shuiyue's lifelong happiness, and also his own. How to smooth things over and persuade the Emperor to rescind his decree so that he could keep the beauty by his side... it's truly a difficult problem!

Chapter 1: Tender Feelings

Zhu Chuanzong moved to live next to the Xue family, becoming neighbors with Xue Jinxian, his purpose naturally being for Xue Jinxian's sake. However, when Xue Jinxian came to visit, her first act was to act as a matchmaker for him, which greatly surprised Zhu Chuanzong, and he was immediately disappointed, thinking: "She clearly doesn't like me, why should I make her unhappy?" After that, Zhu Chuanzong mostly stayed at the Hanlin Academy, rarely visiting his new home. Sometimes, thinking about the experiences of the past few years, he couldn't help but smile bitterly. At home, he had everything he wanted, pampered by the women in his household. He assumed that outside, women would be just as fond of him. However, the beauty he initially liked, Yue Keren, made a pact with him to meet again in three years due to family reasons. At first, he thought three years wasn't a bad idea, waiting until she was older. But after his experiences with Shui Ling'er and Xue Jinxian, he realized that many good women in the world had their own aspirations and didn't exist for any particular person or man. Perhaps Yue Keren was just using this as an excuse to leave him.

Having gone through so many twists and turns, he had gained some understanding of women and was deeply troubled by human emotions. He was a chivalrous man and disliked forcing others. Using power and influence to coerce a girl was not something he appreciated. He still remembered some of his experiences in heaven; using one's status to oppress others was the mark of a truly wicked villain.

After finishing his classes that day, Zhu Chuanzong strolled around outside for a while. It was close to home, and he hadn't been back for several days, so he casually walked back. Upon arriving home, he found the house spotless and tidy, thinking, "Don't let Wang Daniu's two burly men fool you; they're very meticulous with housework." He sat down and picked up a book, noticing a bookmark on the table. The bookmark was a beautifully crafted landscape painting, but he'd never seen one before, so it wasn't his. It also emitted a faint, intoxicating fragrance.

Zhu Chuanzong thought, "Could this be Xue Jinxian?" His heart suddenly skipped a beat. He stood up and went into the inner room, lifting the curtain. There sat a woman by the window, head bowed, reading a book; her beauty was exquisite. It was Xue Jinxian. He was stunned for a moment, and after what seemed like an eternity, Xue Jinxian looked up and said with a smile, "You're back? You've been like a fool, not saying a word. What's wrong?" Zhu Chuanzong then realized what was going on and quickly said with a smile, "Why are you here?" Xue Jinxian said, "Can't I come? It's strange that you're here. It's my own home, but I rarely see you."

Zhu Chuanzong was a little embarrassed and said with a smile, "I've been quite busy lately. I wonder how you've been? What have you been busy with? You're not young anymore, maybe you've been looking for..." "You've found your Mr. Right!" Xue Jinxian said. "Don't you know? I'm a Buddhist and don't plan to get married in this life. Most people around here know that. You probably just haven't been paying attention, no wonder you don't know."

Zhu Chuanzong was stunned for a moment, then suddenly remembered that his sister Zhu Shuiyue had used the same tactic to reject He Zhixiao, and couldn't help but mutter, "Indeed, karma is a cycle, retribution is swift!" Xue Jinxian didn't understand his meaning and smiled, "That's right, what you said is indeed the true essence of Buddhism. So people should do good deeds and not do evil." "What a bad thing!"

Zhu Chuanzong sighed. "I only do good deeds, but I don't see any good rewards."

Xue Jinxian said, "I know you're a good person; my father's illness was all thanks to you. But Buddhism also says that if you do a good deed and then want something in return, if you have that thought in your heart, then it's not a good deed! On the contrary, it's a bad deed, and everything you've done is in vain. So, if you do good deeds without expecting anything in return, perhaps good rewards will come to you automatically!" Zhu Chuanzong was a smart man; he understood from her words... After thinking for a while, he suddenly said, "You're right, then I'll just do good deeds and not worry about the future!" Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "Since you've thought it through, then I'll give you a benefit! Come here, I'll take your measurements and make you a sachet. The one I'm making for you won't be made with ordinary materials and techniques; you couldn't buy it for any amount of money. Consider it repaying a favor, and then our two families will be even!" Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "Okay."

He thought to himself, 'Is your sachet really that valuable? It's strange that you need to take measurements to make a sachet.' But he didn't say anything.

After Xue Jinxian took his measurements, Zhu Chuanzong smelled the fragrant aroma and looked at Xue Jinxian's beautiful face, completely captivated.

In the following days, Zhu Chuanzong saw that Xue Jinxian visited him frequently, so he came back to stay every day.

Xue Jinxian had met him many times, but never mentioned arranging a marriage for him again. Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed, thinking she must be testing him. She clearly had feelings for him; otherwise, she wouldn't have been so open about it, visiting him every day. He was delighted.

Afterward, the two talked about everything under the sun, finding themselves very compatible.

Although Xue Jinxian was a woman, she was well-read, having read some books Zhu Chuanzong hadn't, and her knowledge was remarkably profound, surprising Zhu Chuanzong. He had initially thought Xue Jinxian was very knowledgeable, but being a woman, he realized she couldn't be that insightful. He grew to respect and like her more and more.

As they spent time together, they found themselves very compatible, both delighted, and gradually came to regard each other as confidants. However, they never discussed anything romantic again, never testing the waters, instead becoming increasingly serious, discussing only profound topics.

A few days later, the Hanlin Academy held its examinations. Although the subjects were rather tedious, they couldn't be taken lightly. Zhu Chuanzong buried himself in his studies, and Xue Jinxian advised him that while the official essays were boring, it was best to just get by and focus on his studies.

Half a month passed quickly. Although the two talked about everything, their relationship made no progress. Zhu Chuanzong noticed that Xue Jinxian seemed indifferent to matters of the heart, clearly not wanting to marry. He dared not pursue her further and felt saddened. However, he then thought that since she didn't want to marry, other men couldn't have her, which was a consolation. Sometimes, this thought even brought him some joy, thinking, "Such a wonderful woman, perhaps no man is truly worthy of her." These alternating joys and sorrows gradually faded away.

Zhu Chuanzong finished his exams with decent results. The sachet Xue Jinxian had given him was also ready. He wore it with great pride, and the fragrance emanating from the sachet was neither cloying nor overpowering, but rather intoxicating. Looking at the craftsmanship of the sachet, even a layman like Zhu Chuanzong could tell it was exquisite. The patterns were lifelike, and the embroidered lotus flowers seemed to emit fragrance. Zhu Chuanzong was

full of praise. He admired Xue Jinxian's skill and ingenuity. He had originally worn a small embroidered sachet, which was also very delicate and exquisite, but he had forgotten about it, his mind completely focused on Xue Jinxian.

Zhu Chuanzong, knowing Xue Jinxian's preferences, gave her many small gifts under the guise of thanking her for the sachet. These small things were not valuable, and Xue Jinxian didn't refuse them. After receiving many gifts, Xue Jinxian laughed and said, "How long are you going to thank me?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "The things you gave me are priceless! Naturally, I should return the favor with more gifts."

Xue Jinxian said happily, "You know your stuff."

Zhu Chuanzong was also happy to see her happy. The two grew closer and closer afterward, and Xue Hongju, who witnessed this, was probably the happiest person. Zhu Chuanzong was undoubtedly a wealthy young master, and such a good character was hard to find. Even if Zhu Chuanzong's family background wasn't good, his status as a student of the Hanlin Academy meant his future was limitless.

That day, Xue Jinxian had finished dinner at home and was about to leave when he heard voices outside. The place was very secluded, rarely visited. Through the crack in the door, Xue Jinxian saw Wang Daniu leading two sedan chairs. Two young ladies, both elegant and beautiful, alighted from the chairs, accompanied by two maids. They entered Zhu Chuanzong's house, and Xue Jinxian vaguely heard someone say, "Bao'er lives in such a shabby place? He must be suffering."

Upon seeing this, Xue Jinxian felt weak all over, her legs almost giving way. She nearly collapsed, only managing to stay upright by holding onto the door. It took her a while to recover. She went outside and wandered aimlessly, her mind a jumble of thoughts. Finally, feeling as if a long time had passed, she went home. Passing by Zhu Chuanzong's house, Xue Jinxian peeked through the crack in the door and saw that it was brightly lit, with the faint sound of women's laughter drifting in.

She dared not go in, and walked around outside for a while, but still saw no one come out. Heartbroken, she went home and collapsed onto the bed, fully clothed, pulling the blanket over her body and neck, and began to weep.

Xue Hongju, seeing his daughter return so late and pale, hurried into her bedroom and didn't come out again. He stood at the door, called out, and then pushed open the door. He saw Xue Jinxian lying on the bed, covered by the blanket, seemingly trembling. Xue Hongju asked, "Ah! Child, what's wrong?" After asking several questions, Xue Jinxian slowly answered from under the blanket, "I'm sick."

Xue Hongju said, "You were fine at dinner, how come you're sick now! Did you catch a cold outside?" As he spoke, he stepped forward, bent down, and reached out a hand to stroke her forehead.

Xue Hongju said, "Your head is a little hot. Take off your clothes and lie down for a while."

Xue Jinxian said, "Okay, Father, you go outside. I can take care of myself."

Xue Jinxian hurriedly took off her long clothes and shoes, covered herself with the quilt, and went to sleep. Xue Hongju stood outside the door and called her several times, but Xue Jinxian only hummed in response, indicating that she was asleep. Hearing her words, Xue Hongju didn't ask any further questions.

The next day, Xue Jinxian went out to work as usual, and Xue Hongju was relieved to see that she was alright. However, after that, Xue Jinxian always had a stern face, never smiled, and never went to the next room again.

When Zhu Chuanzong noticed that Xue Jinxian had suddenly stopped visiting, he went to the Xue family to check on her. However, each time, Xue Jinxian would avoid him and refuse to speak to him. Zhu Chuanzong was puzzled and tried to ask her about it several times, but he didn't have the chance or the courage to go into her room to ask. After a few days, Zhu Chuanzong was pushed to his limit and finally mustered up the courage to grab her outside the door.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "I don't know where I offended you, your attitude towards me has changed so drastically. If I've done something wrong, tell me, so I won't be a fool."

Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "Young Master Zhu, it's my fault. I suddenly thought about the proper distinction between men and women. I used to treat you as my benefactor and didn't know how to be discreet. Now that I've thought about this, I can't make the same mistake again! You must understand what I mean."

Zhu Chuanzong saw her smiling face, but the underlying meaning was one of keeping people at arm's length. His heart turned cold, and he forced a smile, saying, "You're not a worldly woman, how can you think like a worldly person?" Xue Jinxian said, "But I'm in the world, how can I transcend it? Human strength has its limits, and things don't always go according to our wishes. Just like you and me, can we escape the shackles of family?" She turned and left directly. Zhu Chuanzong saw her resolute expression and didn't dare to stop her. He pondered the meaning of her words and fell into a daze.

In the following days, Zhu Chuanzong tried every means to get close to Xue Jinxian. Although she no longer avoided him, she no longer took the initiative to contact him. When they did talk, it was only perfunctory, and they could no longer chat and laugh.

Zhu Chuanzong felt bored and gradually stopped looking for her. His mood worsened day by day.

One day, Zhu Chuanzong did not go to class and rested in his room at the Hanlin Academy. Suddenly, he heard someone knocking on the door. Zhu Chuanzong did not get up and said, "Who is it?" Someone laughed and said, "Brother, sleeping in the middle of the day? Are you sick? I've come to fetch a doctor for you."

Zhu Chuanzong recognized the voice as Huang Qi and quickly got up and said, "Brother Huang, don't joke around."

He opened the door and was stunned. Sure enough, Huang Qi had brought someone with him. The person had delicate features, was dressed as a student, and was an extremely handsome man.

Seeing him in a daze, Huang Qi laughed and said, "See? I told you I brought a doctor! He'll definitely cure you."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Brother Huang, you're too kind."

He turned to the student and smiled, "Why are you dressed as a student? Do you know Brother Huang?" It turned out that the student was Xue Jinxian. She laughed and said, "I love being a student. Do you think I can pass for one?" Zhu Chuanzong laughed and said, "Not only can you pass for one, you are one!" As she spoke, she went into the room and sat down on a chair.

The room was a bit messy. Zhu Chuanzong said embarrassedly, "I'm sorry, you two. The room is a bit messy. Why didn't you tell me before coming to see me?" Huang Qi laughed and said, "It's alright for a man to be a little messy."

Xue Jinxian, however, stared at Zhu Chuanzong with a smile on her lips, without saying a word. Zhu Chuanzong felt uncomfortable under her gaze and said, "What's wrong with you? Is there something on my face?" Xue Jinxian said, "I'm a man, what's wrong with me looking at you? Why are you so uncomfortable?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "Why am I uncomfortable? It's rare for you to come, why don't we go to a restaurant for drinks? It's my treat."

Huang Qi readily agreed, and the three of them went to a famous restaurant outside. Xue Jinxian didn't refuse and drank quite a bit. If she, a girl, drank so much, the other two men drank even more, and in the end, all three of them were a little drunk.

Huang Qi, emboldened by the alcohol, sighed that he had boundless ambitions, but he couldn't realize them, lamenting things like destiny and the inability to force things.

Zhu Chuanzong was quite surprised and said, "Brother Huang, after you leave the Hanlin Academy, you'll have plenty of opportunities to showcase your talents. The current emperor is very wise; as long as you achieve something, you can expect to become prime minister someday. What is there to worry about?" Huang Qi shook his head vigorously, saying that Zhu Chuanzong didn't understand him. His ambitions were far greater than simply becoming prime minister. Zhu Chuanzong was quite surprised and said that he had drunk too much. Xue Jinxian said, "I think you're just making a fuss over nothing. Right now, you're just waiting for the right moment. There's nothing to worry about. You will definitely rise to prominence in the future."

Pointing at Zhu Chuanzong, he said: "But you are rather pitiful."

Although Zhu Chuanzong was drunk and somewhat confused, he reacted naturally to Xue Jinxian's words and shamelessly said, "You really understand me! I'm so pitiful, unable to receive the affection of the one I love, truly pitiful."

Xue Jinxian's pretty face was flushed from the alcohol, and her eyes were blurry with drunkenness. She said, "You're right, this is truly a pitiful matter. It not only concerns you personally, but also your family, and it's truly the most pitiful thing in the world."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Chuanzong's face lit up, and he reached out to grasp Xue Jinxian's small hand, pleading, "Since you pity me, why don't you help me?" "Just promise me!" Xue Jinxian didn't pull her hand away, and said dreamily, "If I weren't here to help you, why would I have Mr. Huang bring me to see you? But these things can only be done with our best and leave the rest to fate; there's no guarantee they'll work. And since Heaven has arranged things this way, there must be a reason. But man can conquer nature, and fate isn't unchangeable. If you're willing to listen to me, there might still be room for things to turn around."

Zhu Chuanzong was both surprised and delighted, knowing that there was hope for marriage, and hurriedly said, "I'll listen to you, I'll listen to everything. You are a rare and extraordinary woman in the world, I will definitely listen to you."

Huang Qi laughed as he drank, "I'd like to see..." "Let's see what tricks you have up

your sleeve," Xue Jinxian said. "I've heard your illness is a strange one. I guess it must be because your family has done too many bad things, which is why this disaster has befallen you. But you're a kind-hearted person with a connection to Buddhism, and you know how to make amends by doing

good deeds. Perhaps, once you've done enough good deeds, your illness will naturally disappear! Besides, there are many extraordinary people in the mountains and villages; perhaps they have some folk remedies to cure your illness." Zhu Chuanzong was dumbfounded, not understanding what Xue Jinxian was talking about. After a while, he came to his senses and realized that Xue Jinxian had misunderstood him as a eunuch, unable to marry and have children, and therefore wanted to find a way to cure his hidden illness. It seemed that Huang Qi had told her about this; she must have pitied him, which was why she came to him.

Seeing Zhu Chuanzong lost in thought, Xue Jinxian reached out and touched his face, saying, "Actually, many great heroes and valiant men throughout history have had disabilities; it's nothing. You're not an ordinary person; you should be more open-minded."

Zhu Chuanzong replied, "Yes, I am very open-minded. But if I didn't have this illness, and I fell for a woman of great insight and beauty, and who is also skillful, do you think she would like me?" Huang Qi laughed heartily, "If she didn't like you, would she drink with you?" Zhu Chuanzong exclaimed happily, "Really?" Xue Jinxian rolled her eyes at Huang Qi, her charming expression truly captivating, and said, "Mr. Huang is so frivolous; he loves to tease people."

Both of them were stunned; Zhu Chuanzong could only laugh foolishly.

Huang Qi said, "It's a pity I'm too old, otherwise I would definitely pursue you at all costs."

Xue Jinxian replied, "I think you're doing this because you have a wife. Be careful of her wrath!" Huang Qi, perhaps because he was afraid of his wife, changed his expression, seemingly sobering up, and dared not answer.

Seeing Zhu Chuanzong staring at her with hazy eyes, Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "Who were those two young ladies who came to see you that night? Their temperament and looks were top-notch; they were indeed daughters of wealthy families."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "They were my sister and sister-in-law. You must be angry with me because of them, right?" Xue Jinxian said, "Yes and no. You don't understand. I'm a strange person, different from others since childhood. No one can understand my thoughts."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Tell me, and I'll understand!" Xue Jinxian gave him a meaningful look and said, "Some things cannot be said; they must be understood by others."

The three of them drank heartily and returned home in high spirits.

The next day, after sobering up, Zhu Chuanzong spent the whole day preparing. That evening, he waited for Xue Jinxian by the roadside and gave her some girly things like rouge.

Xue Jinxian said, "I already told you I didn't want any more gifts from you, why did you bring them again?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "I'll tell you a secret, you'll definitely like it."

Xue Jinxian said, "Really? Then I'd like to hear it."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Actually, my illness has long been cured, but outsiders don't know it. Thank you for your concern. Was it because you didn't want to talk to me before? Don't worry, I can marry and have children. If you are willing to be with me, I will certainly not let you down. If you are willing, I will go home and ask my parents to make the decision."

Xue Jinxian's expression was uncertain after hearing this. After a while, she said, "You misunderstand me! I don't mean what you say. I don't want to get married in this life. There are many sufferings in the world that I don't want to endure. Some ordinary people are willing to suffer those kinds of hardships. Since I consider myself to be of high caliber, how could I repeat those tragic paths? Thank you for your affection, but unfortunately, I am not worthy of your noble family. This matter ends here, please don't mention it again." After

saying this, she gracefully left.

Zhu Chuanzong seemed to understand her words but not quite. He stood there stunned, thinking, "So she doesn't like me."

He didn't know how he got back to his room. The next day, he got up early and went back to the Hanlin Academy. For the next few days, he didn't want to go back to his house.

A few days later, Zhu Chuanzong's dejected mood improved somewhat, and his mind began to wander again, so he returned to his house. Just then, Xue Jinxian saw him and beckoned him over.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "You asked me to come see you, is there something you need?" Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "Can't I talk to you?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "You asked me to talk, but what should we talk about?" Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "Let's talk, there's no need to say anything specific." Zhu Chuanzong said, "I actually wish you could talk to me about something. This kind of boring conversation is torture for me. Seeing beauty before me, yet knowing there's no hope for the rest of my life, is torture."

Xue Jinxian said, "It seems I wasn't wrong after all; you only care about beauty."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "No."

But Xue Jinxian seemed lost and didn't listen to him.

Zhu Chuanzong was too lazy to explain further. Since she didn't like him, even if she understood his character, what did it matter? Half a month passed, and the two did not meet again. One day, Zhu Chuanzong, overwhelmed with longing, could no longer resist and went straight to the Xue family's house.

The Xue family's gate was not closed. Zhu Chuanzong entered the courtyard and suddenly heard Xue Jinxian softly reciting: "The mulberry tree by the marsh is lush and green, its leaves are tender and verdant. Now that I have seen my beloved, how joyful I am! The mulberry tree by the marsh is lush and green, its leaves are verdant and luxuriant. Now that I have seen my beloved, how can I not be joyful? The mulberry tree by the marsh is lush and green, its leaves are secluded and beautiful. Now that I have seen my beloved, his virtuous words are deeply moving. My heart is filled with love, how can I not express it? I keep it hidden in my heart, how can I forget it!" Zhu Chuanzong was stunned. Xue Jinxian was reciting "The Mulberry Tree by the Marsh" from the *Book of Songs*, specifically the *Minor Odes*. "The Mulberry Tree by the Marsh" expresses a woman's longing for her lover and her unwavering affection. Not only did she express the depth of her longing and the richness of her affection, saying, "It is hidden in my heart, how can I forget it?" she also articulated the principle of love: if there is love in one's heart, no matter how far apart they are, that love will endure, and so will the longing.

Was she truly in love with him? If it was him, and he sincerely pursued her, why did she reject him? Zhu Chuanzong stood there, stunned. ( Chapter 5, May

15) Zhu Chuanzong returned to the Hanlin Academy to continue his studies, and the glory of those few days seemed to vanish instantly. At home, things were fine; not only were there many beautiful women accompanying him, but he had also left his former environment and rarely thought of Xue Jinxian. Now, back in the place of his longing, his old feelings were stirred up, and every night he was consumed by worry and yearning for his beloved. That evening, he sat alone in the courtyard. Although his beloved was right next door, it felt as if they were thousands of miles apart, and he felt a deep sense of desolation. Unconsciously, he softly recited, "The fallen flowers are willing to follow the flowing water, but the flowing water has no heart to love the fallen flowers. I used to think it was such an old-fashioned poem, but now that I'm experiencing it, I can't help but sigh!" Zhu Chuanzong was talking to himself when he suddenly heard someone chuckle and say, "Which flowing water is so heartless, making our Bao'er suffer the pain of unrequited love?" He saw a person leaning against the door, wearing a pink pleated skirt, holding a light gauze fan in her jade hand, her eyebrows and eyes sparkling, smiling radiantly. It was his sister-in-law, Hua Caiyun. Zhu Chuanzong was both surprised and delighted. He reached out and pulled Hua Caiyun's delicate hand, inviting her into the house. He sat her down on the edge of the bed and asked, "Why have you come, sister-in-law?" Hua Caiyun rolled her eyes at him and scolded, "Are we all as heartless as you? Thinking of other women while you're out, have you forgotten all about us?" Zhu Chuanzong kissed her and chuckled, "How could that be? I was just thinking of you, sister-in-law, and I was going home to see you when you arrived. Isn't that a perfect understanding?" Hua Caiyun didn't speak, but stared at him with a half-smile. Zhu Chuanzong asked guiltily, "What are you laughing at, sister-in-law?" Hua Caiyun sighed softly and said, "Bao'er has grown up. He's learned to hide things from his sister-in-law. He has a new lover. What use is he to me now?" Her words were half-true and half-false, tinged with resentment. Zhu Chuanzong panicked and hurriedly said, "No, no! Sister-in-law will always be my darling, how could I bear to leave you?" He knew Hua Caiyun was shrewd and must have heard something, otherwise she wouldn't have said that. Now that he couldn't hide it anymore, he had no choice but to tell her about Xue Jinxian. Hua Caiyun smiled smugly for a while and said, "Heaven has eyes, finally someone can deal with you, otherwise you would think everyone treats you like a treasure and would marry no one but you. Let's see if you dare to disregard us women in the future." Zhu Chuanzong smiled bitterly and said, "Sister-in-law, don't tease me. There are many women who treat me like dirt, only you don't look down on me, only you are the best." Hua Caiyun laughed and said, "Your words are getting sweeter and sweeter, you're really quite something!" It turned out that after Zhu Chuanzong left, one day the Crown Prince's wife invited Hua Caiyun to her residence for a chat. During the meal, they talked about a remarkable woman named Xue Jinxian, so Hua Caiyun learned about this matter and thought to herself, "This girl surnamed Xue is quite interesting." She has a good character, and Bao'er likes her. Although their family backgrounds are not a good match, she doesn't want to marry into a wealthy family, judging from her words. If we could settle down outside, we could keep Bao'er in check without affecting our relationship with her. Wouldn't that be great? Therefore, she discussed it with Zhu Shuiyue. The two of them felt that since the princess had come specifically to talk about it, if the marriage went through, it would also establish a good relationship, which would only benefit them. So the more they thought about it, the more tempted they became. At this moment, Hua Caiyun smiled and said, "Judging from what you're saying, that Miss Xue is also somewhat attracted to you, but she's afraid our family background is too good. Perhaps I should find an opportunity to meet her and reassure her; maybe then things will work out." Zhu Chuanzong, suffering from lovesickness, had given up hope, but upon hearing this, he was overjoyed. He hugged Hua Caiyun's slender waist and said, "Sister-in-law, are you serious?" Seeing his ecstatic appearance, Hua Caiyun felt a little jealous. She pushed him away and leaned against the bedside, saying, "Look how happy you are! I'm leaving. Go and pamper your Miss Xue!" She said she was leaving, but didn't. She grabbed a corner of the bed curtains and gently rubbed it. She bit her lip and glanced at him, her eyes seemingly overflowing with tears. Seeing his sister-in-law Hua Caiyun's alluring eyes and captivating beauty, Zhu Chuanzong could no longer resist. He immediately undressed, revealing his naked body, and embraced her. His hands kneaded her breasts, moving them left and right, forward and backward. Hua Caiyun's face flushed, and she felt a surge of heat spreading throughout her body. Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Such a beautiful night! I thought I'd waste it, but a beauty has fallen from the sky." He moved his hands to Hua Caiyun's most exquisite area, parting the soft pubic hair to reveal a delicate slit. There, a fragrant spring was already flowing; the Peach Blossom Spring had flowing water and fragrant grass—a paradise on earth. Zhu Chuanzong couldn't restrain himself. He parted her legs and reached into her beautiful spot, gently kneading it with his hands. He then extended his tongue, sometimes sucking and licking, sometimes inserting it inside, stirring it back and forth. Hua Caiyun couldn't withstand this torment and groaned, "My little rascal, where did you learn such tricks? So naughty!" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Is it enjoyable, sister-in-law?" Hua Caiyun couldn't help but moan and cry out, forgetting even to answer, only calling out, "My rascal, come in quickly! I can't take it anymore." Zhu Chuanzong's huge jade stem was already like a dragon coiled around a pillar. He placed Hua Caiyun's legs on his shoulders, wrapped his hands around her jade thighs, revealing her alluring flower core, aimed his jade stem at her flower core, and thrust hard, entering her to the root, and began to really pound into her. Hua Caiyun supported herself on the bed with both hands, trying her best to receive him. Zhu Chuanzong pulled out, and Hua Caiyun pushed in; Zhu Chuanzong pushed in, and Hua Caiyun pushed in. Hua Caiyun's vagina was slippery as oil, and Zhu Chuanzong always hit her most sensitive spot, making her feel like she was ascending to heaven, like she was being reborn, floating on air, as if she were dead.

After more than three thousand thrusts, Hua Caiyun's body trembled, and she climaxed. Zhu Chuanzong then placed Hua Caiyun on the couch, raised one leg, and began to vigorously fuck her. It was a long time before they both ejaculated. Afterwards, Hua Caiyun felt completely refreshed, like a dead person, utterly unaware of what had happened. The two slept soundly until dawn.

In the morning, after Hua Caiyun finished dressing, she said, "I'll go back and think of a way. You focus on your studies at the Hanlin Academy and don't neglect your studies. I'll have good news for you in a few days."

Zhu Chuanzong saw that she had been intimate all night, radiant and with a spring-like look in her eyes. He couldn't resist his lust, kissing and touching her passionately for a long time before letting her go.

Hua Caiyun returned to her residence and immediately sent people to investigate Xue Jinxian's situation. His character and family background were thoroughly investigated. The more they investigated, the more satisfied they became, and they made up their minds.

That evening, Xue Jinxian returned home. As soon as she entered the courtyard, her father rushed over, calling out, "Daughter, you're back! We have a guest!"

Xue Jinxian asked, "What guest is it? Why are you in such a hurry?" Xue Hongju smiled and said, "It's a noblewoman, Young Master Zhu's sister-in-law. Judging from her manner, she seems to value you highly!" Xue Jinxian's heart skipped a beat, but she calmed down a bit. She went into the house and saw the beautiful woman she had seen before standing up with a smile, looking at her. Beside her stood a pretty young maid, whom she had never seen before.

Xue Jinxian involuntarily said, "Greetings, elder sister,"

and bowed.

Hua Caiyun stopped her, saying, "Sister, you are indeed beautiful and elegant. I find you quite charming. No need for such formalities."

She put her arm around Xue Jinxian and helped her sit on the kang (a heated brick bed).

Xue Hongju brought her tea and then tactfully went out.

Hua Caiyun, in charge of the finances and personnel of the prefecture, dealt with high-ranking officials and nobles. She was a shrewd and worldly-wise person, with a keen understanding of women's thoughts, especially as a woman. She could roughly understand Xue Jinxian's concerns. She felt pity for Xue Jinxian's humble origins and her reluctance to accept Zhu Chuanzong's affections, yet admired her lack of vanity and self-respect. Seeing her now, so dignified, virtuous, and neither servile nor arrogant—a beautiful and charming woman—she liked her even more.

Seeing that Hua Caiyun remained silent, only smiling as she sized her up, Xue Jinxian's pretty face flushed slightly. She asked, "Sister, is there anything I can do for you today?" Hua Caiyun smiled and said, "No one visits without a reason. I have something to ask of you. I had some doubts when I heard that Bao'er was so preoccupied with a woman that he couldn't eat or drink, but now that I've seen you, I believe it. What man wouldn't be moved by such a dignified and beautiful woman?" Xue Jinxian was startled, her expression changing slightly. She forced a smile and said, "Sister, you're joking. Mr. Zhu and I are just casual acquaintances; there's no romantic feeling between us. Please don't take it to

heart." She felt a surge of disdain, thinking, "Could it be that his family heard rumors and came to stop us? I don't intend to marry him, why are they in such a hurry? How pointless! Even if such a wealthy family agreed, I wouldn't want to!" Thinking this, she couldn't help but sneer inwardly. If it weren't for Hua Caiyun's dignified and generous demeanor, she probably would have gotten up to see her off.

To everyone's surprise, Hua Caiyun suddenly smiled and said, "I've come today to propose marriage on behalf of Bao'er. Please agree, young lady!" Xue Jinxian was taken aback, her beautiful eyes widening in surprise.

Hua Caiyun said, "I know everything about your relationship. You also understand Bao'er's feelings for you. Since you both love each other, why suffer the pain of unrequited love?" Xue Jinxian said, "I..." She wanted to deny it, but looking at Hua Caiyun's insightful eyes, she couldn't say anything. Suddenly, a mixture of joy and sorrow welled up within her, her thoughts swirling in turmoil. Finally, she shook her head and said, "Sister, thank you for your kindness. My relationship with Young Master Zhu is complicated; it's best to say we were destined to be apart. I've vowed never to marry and will never see him again. Please return."

Hua Caiyun said, "I know you're worried about the disparity in our family backgrounds and that you'll be mistreated at the Zhu family's. Actually, everyone in our family is kind-hearted; no one is materialistic. You're overthinking it. Sigh, you wouldn't believe me anyway. How about this: let Bao'er marry you here, with proper ceremony and all the formalities. However, after the wedding, you won't need to move into the Zhu family's; you'll continue to serve them here." "Father. This way, we can have the best of both worlds. What do you think?" Xue Jinxian's eyes lit up. She had actually considered this idea before and was somewhat tempted, but after a moment's thought, she shook her head and said, "Although I am from a poor family, I come from a scholarly family and understand the principles of filial piety and morality. What kind of wife doesn't serve her parents-in-law after marriage and instead stays at her parents' home to care for her own parents? The Zhu family is an official family; we shouldn't be criticized for no reason. Sister, thank you for your kind intentions, but my mind is made up. There's no need to say more."

Hua Caiyun was rejected several times, but instead of being annoyed, she secretly admired her, thinking, "This girl is not only talented and beautiful, but more importantly, she is righteous, virtuous, and kind. If Bao'er could marry such a wife, it would truly be a blessing." She knew that Xue Jinxian was right, and since this matter involved the elders in the family, she dared not make the decision herself. Nodding, he stood up and said, "I understand. Perhaps there's still a solution. Bao'er is studying at the Hanlin Academy now, and he has few people to look after him. He's used to everything going smoothly, and now he's completely devoted to you. Please be understanding. Thank you in advance."

Given the circumstances, and Hua Caiyun's humble request, Xue Jinxian could only blush and agree. He saw Hua Caiyun to the door. He watched the sedan chair disappear into the distance, then sighed after a long while and turned back.

Xue Jinxian figured that by rejecting Hua Caiyun, his relationship with Zhu Chuanzong had truly come to an end. Since that was the case, clinging to the relationship would only harm both of them, so he decided to confront Zhu Chuanzong directly.

The next day, Zhu Chuanzong came to visit. While her father was making tea, Xue Jinxian pulled him aside and said, "What did you tell the family? Your sister-in-law came by yesterday."

Zhu Chuanzong thought she had been persuaded by Hua Caiyun and was overjoyed. He said, "I didn't say anything. My sister-in-law guessed it herself. You agreed?" He couldn't help but reach out and take Xue Jinxian's hand.

Xue Jinxian stepped aside and said calmly, "No."

Zhu Chuanzong felt a chill run down his spine, as if doused with cold water, and asked in a trembling voice, "Why?" Xue Jinxian replied, "You know."

Zhu Chuanzong said anxiously, "You were worried about my family's objections, but now my family is fine. Why won't you agree? Are all your feelings for me fake?" Xue Jinxian said bitterly, "Think what you want. There are so many good families in the world. Forget about me! And don't come looking for me again."

Zhu Chuanzong regretted his words. Looking at Xue Jinxian's resolute expression, he felt somewhat disheartened and said, "Fine, if you hate seeing me, I won't bother you anymore."

At this moment, Xue Hongju brought in some water, and the two of them stopped talking.

After sitting for a while, Zhu Chuanzong took his leave without saying goodbye to Xue Jinxian. When Xue Hongju returned after seeing her off, he saw Xue Jinxian sitting blankly in a chair, her face full of sorrow and desolation. He stroked her hair tenderly and said, "Daughter, Young Master Zhu…" Xue Jinxian stood up and said, "I have to go to work."

She lowered her head and went into the house, a tear rolling down her cheek.

Zhu Chuanzong left and, as expected, never returned. The two had never been separated for so long since they met, and Xue Jinxian understood that Zhu Chuanzong had completely given up. She thought, "It's good that you've given up. It saves you from wasting your precious time on someone like me who is impossible for you. I only hope you find a suitable match and live a peaceful and happy life." Thinking this, she was overcome with grief and couldn't help but cry quietly.

She thought back on her relationship with Zhu Chuanzong and made a vow in her heart: although she could not marry Zhu Chuanzong in this life, she had already given her heart to him and would never give it to anyone else.

From then on, Xue Jinxian worked tirelessly, never smiling, growing more and more haggard each day. Xue Hongju watched all this, sighing inwardly that romantic love was indeed the most painful thing. But a broken heart requires a remedy for the heart; no one else could help, and knowing his daughter's temperament, words were useless.

That day, Xue Jinxian went to the river to wash clothes as usual. Suddenly, a wealthy young man stepped off a boat and approached her with ill intent.

Xue Jinxian had seen this many times before, so she naturally didn't give him a hard time. The young man persisted, even touching her cheek inappropriately. Xue Jinxian pushed him away forcefully, and he lost his footing, tumbling into the river.

马上就几个家丁跳进去把公子扶上来了。那公子狼狈而去，边走还边叫嚣着，早晚要把薛金线弄到手。众浣纱女都被他丑态逗得大笑。旁边有老成人私下提醒薛金线，那人家中颇有势力，欺男霸女无恶不作，恐怕会有麻烦。

薛金线微微一笑，说道无妨，心中却也难免有些忧虑，思索要不要告诉义兄黄其。

哪知第二天那恶少却一脸惊惶地跑来赔罪，鼻青脸肿地，仿佛被人饱揍了一顿。嘴里说着有眼不识泰山，就差跪下磕头了。

薛金线问清他被什么人教训，听他的描述，竟然是朱传宗在暗中帮她，便也不跟那人计较，放他去了。心中思忖：『原来是他？他现在应该恨我怨我，怎么还会维护我呢？可见他爱我之深。 "I'm getting older, and life is tough. I really need a man to protect me, but his family is wealthy, and they'll probably look down on me. Even if I marry him, he'll just find fault with me all the time. I'd rather be alone for the rest of my life." She was torn between these thoughts and her own anxieties.

A few days later, a heavy rain fell, and the Xue family's house, dilapidated from years of neglect, leaked. Xue Jinxian finished his work the next day and rushed home to hire someone to repair it. But when he returned, the house had already been perfectly repaired, even the tiles had been replaced.

Xue Jinxian said, "Father, you're really capable now. The person you hired is quite skilled. I wonder how much it cost?" Xue Hongju smiled and said, "Young Master Zhu sent someone to fix it. It didn't cost a penny."

Xue Jinxian asked in surprise, "How did he know our house was leaking?" Xue Hongju said, "He saw that it rained heavily last night and was worried, so he sent someone to check it today. He's so thoughtful!" He then gave Xue Jinxian a meaningful smile.

Xue Jinxian's heart skipped a beat, and she asked, "Father, about that scoundrel the other day, how...how did he know?" Xue Hongju said, "You wash clothes by the river every day, and he's been watching you from the restaurant next door. For over a month, every single day, he's booked all the seats by the window. Daughter, his thoughtfulness is truly admirable!" Xue Jinxian blushed, looking both shy and pleased, and said, "It's his fault for being so nosy." She

felt both touched and sweet inside, thinking, "So he hasn't forgotten me all this time, he's always been thinking of me." "How could he be so foolish?" From then on, Xue Jinxian's mood improved. She thought, "It's good that he's with me like this. Although we're not by each other's side, our hearts are connected, and I have no worries."

Her face became rosy, and a smile often graced her lips.

In the blink of an eye, it was Qixi Festival. Qixi Festival is also known as the "Begging for Skills Festival," which is said to be the day when the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl meet. The Weaver Girl is the goddess in charge of needlework in the heavens, and as an embroiderer, Xue Jinxian naturally took this festival very seriously.

She made many "Qiaoguo" (skillful fruits) according to custom, and also set out fruits and vegetables. She worshipped the heavens in the courtyard, hoping that the Weaver Girl would bless her and make her more skillful.

The "Qiaoguo" is made by first melting white sugar in a pot to make syrup, then mixing it with flour and sesame seeds, spreading it on a board, rolling it out thinly, letting it cool, cutting it into rectangular pieces, and finally folding it into shuttle-shaped Qiaoguo embryos. They are then deep-fried until golden brown. Skillful women can also sculpt various patterns related to the legend of Qixi Festival.

Xue Jinxian was naturally a master; the dough oxen and figures he sculpted were so lifelike they were almost indistinguishable from the real thing.

Suddenly, someone said, "Your hands are already so skillful, what more could you ask for?" Xue Jinxian turned around, smiled for a moment, and said, "You've finally come?" Zhu Chuanzong also smiled and said, "You've finally let me come?" The two looked at each other tenderly, their affection unspoken.

Xue Jinxian said, "Let's go for a walk."

Under the moonlight, the two came to a melon trellis and sat side by side. Zhu Chuanzong handed over a wooden box, saying, "This is for you."

Xue Jinxian opened it and saw more than ten gold needles of varying lengths, exquisitely crafted, arranged side by side on a needle pad, their light shimmering. She was stunned and exclaimed in surprise, "Dragon and Phoenix Needles!" Zhu Chuanzong asked, "Do you recognize them?" Xue Jinxian replied, "Of course I do! These are treasures that embroiderers dream of, priceless gems. I've heard they've always been kept in the imperial palace. How did you get them? Could it be…?" As she spoke, she gently stroked them, looking as if she couldn't bear to part with them.

Seeing her delight, Zhu Chuanzong was also pleased, thinking to himself, "No wonder Huang Qi promised to please Jinxian when he gave them to me; they're such valuable!" It turned out that Huang Qi had given them to Zhu Chuanzong the other day to curry favor with Xue Jinxian, saying he might need their help someday. Zhu Chuanzong was used to the mysterious way this man spoke.

Just then, Xue Jinxian pushed the box back, saying, "This is too precious, I can't accept it."

Her eyes showed reluctance, and she turned away with a determined look.

Zhu Chuanzong refused, laughing, "A precious sword is given to a martyr, and rouge to a beautiful woman. Only you can use the golden needles; wouldn't it be a waste for me to take them? Besides, I've given you my heart; what is there to be reluctant about?" Xue Jinxian gave him a deep look, remaining silent, and looked up at the stars, murmuring, "The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl are far apart, separated by the Milky Way. All day long, they cannot weave their own patterns, their tears falling like rain. The Milky Way is clear and shallow, how far apart are they? Separated by a mere stream, they gaze at each other, unable to speak."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Chuanzong knew she was using the story of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl to imply that their social statuses were too different, and that a good outcome was impossible. He pondered for a moment, then casually recited: "The clouds weave patterns, the stars convey sorrow, the Milky Way stretches vast and silent. A single meeting in the golden autumn breeze and jade dew surpasses countless encounters in the mortal world!" Xue Jinxian paused, then pointed to the sky and said, "Look at them, rarely seeing each other throughout the year, how tragic. The Qixi Festival is a day to witness their misfortune."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "That's not right. Qixi is also called the Fragrant Day, the Daughters' Festival, a festival for lovers all over the world, a day to bless lovers to be together."

Xue Jinxian retorted, "You are a scholar of the Hanlin Academy, of course I can't argue with you."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "If you don't like it, I won't say it. I'll only say what you want to hear."

Xue Jinxian looked at him steadily and said softly, "Why are you so good to me? I don't deserve it."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Why am I so good to you? Don't you know my feelings?" Xue Jinxian's eyes flickered, lost in thought, and after a long while, she sighed. She gently leaned her fragrant shoulders against Zhu Chuanzong, closed her eyes, and seemed to fall asleep,

a soft, sweet fragrance wafting through the air. Zhu Chuanzong, seeing that she no longer resisted him, was overjoyed. He gently embraced the beauty, feeling her soft, yielding touch, as if in paradise.

The two sat until the moon and stars were bright before returning home. Meanwhile,

after Hua Caiyun left, she still couldn't stop thinking about the marriage, but she didn't know how to bring it up with the Dowager Empress and her in-laws. She consulted Zhu Shuiyue, but neither of them had a good solution.

Then one day, a distinguished guest arrived—the Princess Consort of the Emperor's eldest son. The eldest prince was of humble birth and had never been favored by Emperor Mingzong, nor did he have much interaction with the court officials. However, he was still a member of the imperial family, with the proper relationship between ruler and subject. Madam Zhu, leading Hua Caiyun and the other women, personally welcomed the Princess Consort in, taking her directly to the inner courtyard, where the Dowager Empress came out to accompany her.

After exchanging a few pleasantries, the Crown Prince's wife explained her purpose: she had come to act as matchmaker for Zhu Chuanzong, specifically for Xue Jinxian, the daughter of the Xue family.

Neither the Old Madam nor Madam Zhu had ever heard of her before, and they were somewhat surprised. Hua Caiyun quickly leaned close and whispered the story in her ear, her words full of praise.

The princess said, "My sworn sister is a remarkable woman, possessing unparalleled talent and beauty. She doesn't crave wealth and is well-educated and courteous; she and Young Master Zhu are a match made in heaven."

Taking advantage of this opportunity, Hua Caiyun told the matriarch about Xue Jinxian's situation. The old matriarch, already heartbroken to hear her beloved grandson was lovesick, disregarded everything else. Besides, Xue Jinxian only wanted to establish her own household and not marry into the Zhu family, which was perfect. She immediately decided, "Since my darling likes her, what's wrong with that? That Miss Xue understands the difference in social status and is sensible; she's clearly a good girl. If she doesn't want to live in the Zhu household, so be it. How much dowry she wants, how to arrange things—do as she pleases. The most important thing is that my beloved grandson is happy; whatever you say is fine!" With the matriarch's word, the matter was settled. The next day, Madam Zhu prepared several gifts and, accompanied by Hua Caiyun, personally came to the Xue family to propose marriage.

After so many events, Xue Jinxian's heart was entirely devoted to Zhu Chuanzong, and she had already secretly agreed to the marriage. Today, Madam Zhu's personal proposal, a proper and respectful marriage, was not an insult to her at all. What's even more remarkable is that the Zhu family is understanding and allows her to live independently without entering the Zhu household. She was overjoyed. When Xue Hongju gave her a meaningful look, she blushed and said, "It's all up to Father."

Xue Hongju had long intended this, and today his wish was finally fulfilled, so he couldn't help but laugh heartily. They exchanged betrothal gifts with the Zhu family, set an auspicious date, and prepared to hold their wedding.

Chapter Six: The Wedding Night

. Zhu Chuanzong and Xue Jinxian, after many trials and tribulations, finally became husband and wife. Their joy was indescribable.

Zhu Chuanzong knew that Xue Jinxian was refined and elegant, possessing both beauty and virtue; to have such a beauty was the greatest fortune of his life. Therefore, he cherished her dearly and made meticulous preparations, fearing he might wrong her.

He asked Hua Caiyun to invite Xue Jinxian to stay at the Zhu family home for a few days to pay respects to the matriarch and some relatives. After staying for several days, when she returned, Xue Jinxian was stunned.

The small house where they originally lived had been transformed into a large courtyard, with two small buildings rising from the ground. The courtyard was filled with flowers, trees, a small bridge, and flowing water, creating a pleasant scene. While not as opulent as the gardens of wealthy families, its charm and beauty surpassed them all. Zhu Youji, as the Minister of Works, could easily afford to build such a small house, but he was mindful that it couldn't be too luxurious; otherwise, even a grand mansion could be built without much effort.

The Xue family's house and the house Zhu Chuanzong had bought were originally separated by a narrow alley. Zhu Chuanzong simply bought the entire plot of land, demolished the two walls, and built a moon gate in the middle. The new house for the Xue family and Zhu Chuanzong's marriage was called "Two Residences," but in reality, it was like one family.

To outsiders, a married couple living with the bride's family would be considered "adopting the son-in-law," and the son-in-law would be ridiculed. Zhu Chuanzong did this out of consideration for Xue Hongju's old age and illness, making it easier to care for him. Xue Jinxian naturally understood his intentions and was deeply grateful.

A few days later, after the betrothal gifts were exchanged, Zhu Youji and his wife actually made a special trip to visit their home in a sedan chair.

According to custom, the betrothal gifts only required servants to accompany the matchmaker. For the parents-in-law to personally come to thank their future in-laws was a rare gesture, even among ordinary families. Moreover, Zhu Youji was a high-ranking official, while Xue Hongju was merely a poor scholar.

Previously, the neighbors and relatives had looked down on Xue Hongju. Now, seeing his newly expanded house and the official sedan chair's visit, they saw a completely different side of him. Although they didn't know the visitor was a high-ranking official, a favorite of the court, they still flocked to his door to cultivate relationships and curry favor, praising the Xue family for having landed a wealthy and powerful son-in-law. Xue Hongju, who had lived a life of hardship, now looked triumphant, his face glowing, as if he had become ten years younger.

Although Xue Jinxian was not a vain woman, seeing her father happy made her happy too. She knew that Zhu Chuanzong had arranged everything, and her heart was filled with love. She felt that being able to marry such a considerate husband and have such an open-minded and understanding in-law family was truly a rare blessing; she was the happiest person in the world

. Zhu Chuanzong had the courtyard cleaned spotlessly, and the rooms were neatly lined with crimson gauze to serve as the bridal chamber. Hua Caiyun personally supervised all of this, meticulously decorating the new house to be as beautiful as a fairyland.

Just after the house was finished, Zhu's four servants, Wang Daniu and his companions, arrived together. This time, their arrival was quite different from before. Not only the four of them, but also all the attendants and servants, were dressed in fine clothes and rode fine horses, bringing many gifts. They all addressed Xue Hongju as "Master," making Xue Hongju overjoyed.

Wang Daniu and others brought several sets of fashionable dresses and jackets tailored to Xue Jinxian's measurements, a bright red embroidered round-necked dress, a silver belt made by a silversmith, a set of gilded head and face jewelry, as well as boots and writing implements for Zhu Chuanzong, all complete with various items.

As the wedding day approached, the Zhu family sent more betrothal gifts: a phoenix crown, a pair of gold hairpins, a pair of pearl flowers, a pair of gold bracelets, a pair of pearl rings, two jade hairpins, two bolts of gold satin, two bolts of colored satin, four bolts of colored damask, and four bolts of colored silk. These were betrothal gifts from slightly better-off families. If it were up to the Zhu family, even a hundred times more would not have been excessive. However, Xue Jinxian did not want to be ostentatious, so she followed the custom of ordinary families.

Time flew by, and the wedding day arrived in the blink of an eye.

That morning, gongs and drums resounded, and flags and umbrellas fluttered. Xue Jinxian, adorned with jewels and jade, looked like a fairy, her face covered by a red veil, as her bridesmaids helped her onto the bridal sedan chair. A decorated carriage slowly approached, followed by two smaller sedan chairs. With drums and firecrackers, the procession attracted crowds of onlookers, creating a lively scene.

Madam Zhu, adorned with a phoenix coronet and gold belt, and Hua Caiyun, both dressed in bright red auspicious robes, were present. The carriage arrived at the gate and was carried into the main hall. Hua Caiyun opened the sedan chair door, Madam Zhu received the precious basin, and the bridesmaids helped the newlyweds out of the sedan chair, which was then carried out of the courtyard. Then, the wedding sedan chair arrived, and Madam Zhu and Hua Caiyun received it. Xue Hongju was invited to sit in the main room first, with Zhu Youji accompanying him.

In the outer hall, Zhu Chuanzong, dressed in a scholar's cap and official robes, with a red hairpin, waited outside for the matchmaker. Hua Caiyun and the others did not tell him who the matchmaker was, leaving Zhu Chuanzong puzzled,

as he had no idea who they had hired. Because of his reputation for being a eunuch and the fact that the wedding was being held in an outer residence, Zhu Chuanzong kept the celebrations low. His colleagues at the yamen and classmates at the Hanlin Academy were not notified. Among his friends, only Huang Qi was invited.

After waiting for a long time without the arrival of the matchmaker, Zhu Chuanzong was growing impatient when a servant announced, "His Highness the Crown Prince has arrived!" A sedan chair, even more imposing than those carried by Zhu Youji, a first-rank official, pulled up at the courtyard gate. The curtain was lifted, and a man stepped out—his sworn brother, Huang Qi.

Zhu Chuanzong was startled and exclaimed, "Brother Huang!" He was unsure whether to greet his elder brother or the current prince.

Huang Qi laughed heartily, "Brother, please forgive me for keeping this from you."

It turned out that Huang Qi was an alias; his real name was Tang Zhi, the eldest son of Emperor Mingzong. He had adopted this identity to study at the Hanlin Academy because he enjoyed associating with scholars.

Zhu Chuanzong smiled wryly, "Your Highness has kept this from me for so long!" Although he and Tang Zhi had previously been like brothers, now that he knew his true identity, a distance had formed between them. After all, there was a distinction between ruler and subject, and they could no longer be as casual as before. He knew the eldest prince had helped him greatly before, and he was deeply grateful.

Seeing the expression on his face, Tang Zhi sighed and said, "I didn't reveal my identity before because I was afraid that things would become estranged between brothers like this."

Just as he was about to speak further, Zhu Youji came out to greet them. Tang Zhi patted Zhu Chuanzong on the shoulder and was escorted inside.

Xue Jinxian sat on the bed in the bridal chamber, setting up the bed curtains. When the time came, he went out with Zhu Chuanzong to perform the ceremony. The newlyweds first thanked Tang Zhi, the matchmaker, then Zhu Youji and his wife, and then their father. After the ceremony, everyone escorted the newlyweds back to their room.

Zhu Chuanzong was busy outside for a while. When the candles were lit and music played, they welcomed him into the room. Zhu Chuanzong, wearing a black gauze hat, a purple sash, a gold belt, and a red robe, went upstairs and entered the bridal chamber.

By then, the candles had burned out, everyone had dispersed, and the door to the bridal chamber was closed. Zhu Chuanzong took a candle from the table, held it in his hand, went to Xue Jinxian's side, lifted the veil, looked at her closely, and said softly, "After so much hardship, today my sister and I are husband and wife. Before, I couldn't even look at you for a second, but now I can admire you to my heart's content."

Xue Jinxian smiled and replied, "You said it's just admiring, not doing anything else."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "How can that be? Today, in the jade quilt, watch me gently pluck the new buds of the crabapple."

After saying that, he slowly took off Xue Jinxian's clothes.

Xue Jinxian's fair and delicate skin, set against her rosy cheeks, and her arched eyebrows like a crescent moon, were breathtakingly beautiful.

Shyly, she closed her eyes, unable to look at anyone. Zhu Chuanzong saw her slightly parted lips, like dewdrops on a fresh flower; her slender arms, white and supple; her breasts, like overturned bowls; her fair body, lightly moistened, like pear blossoms glistening with rain—truly a sight to behold, and he was captivated.

Zhu Chuanzong gazed at her most alluring feature, noticing that between her white thighs, half-revealed a tight slit, her delicate beauty like flawless jade, truly enviable.

At this moment, the fragrance of her virginity wafted into Zhu Chuanzong's lungs, intoxicating him. He began to caress her body incessantly, his mouth close to her cherry lips, making a series of smacking sounds. Xue Jinxian opened her small mouth, her delicate lips parting slightly. Sweet and fragrant, it permeated his soul, filling Zhu Chuanzong with immense pleasure.

Xue Jinxian, experiencing such pleasure for the first time,

felt as if she were floating on clouds, her eyes half-closed, soft moans escaping her lips, letting Zhu Chuanzong play with her. Zhu Chuanzong held her slender waist with one hand and caressed her breasts with the other, feeling their softness and the firm, peach-like nipples.

Xue Jinxian felt completely relaxed from his caresses and unconsciously began to writhe. Zhu Chuanzong stroked Xue Jinxian, feeling her warm, smooth skin like milk, her nipples erect like beans. He kneaded her nipples with his fingers and massaged her breasts with his palms, busy as could be.

Xue Jinxian felt hot all over, unbearably comfortable, moaning softly, her soft whimpers like dripping spring water, unconsciously clinging tightly to Zhu Chuanzong.

Zhu Chuanzong continued to caress her carefully, his mouth never stopping, continuing to suckle. Xue Jinxian's breasts were full and white, incredibly delicate and alluring. Upon seeing them, Zhu Chuanzong was aroused. He moved his mouth to her breasts, sucking on them as if he wanted to devour them. His tongue lightly touched her nipples, and with just that touch, Xue Jinxian's whole body convulsed.

Zhu Chuanzong noticed that Xue Jinxian's vulva was exceptionally full, though sparsely haired, with only a few downy hairs. When his hand reached her, Xue Jinxian instinctively squeezed her legs together, her face burning, her breathing becoming increasingly labored, and her body writhing more violently, her heart burning with unbearable itch.

Zhu Chuanzong gently rubbed her vulva, the sensation incredibly pleasurable, his heart burning with desire. His penis, which had become as hard as a wooden rod, stirred within him.

He then guided Xue Jinxian's small hand into his crotch. When her hand touched his penis, Xue Jinxian paused for a moment. Zhu Chuanzong, his desire overwhelming, forced her small hand to grasp his penis firmly. Xue Jinxian was both surprised and delighted. Holding the jade stem, she felt an intense itching in her lower body, as if she were flying in the sky, light as a bird, yet with nowhere to land.

At this moment, Zhu Chuanzong parted Xue Jinxian's legs. He saw her vulva, like a baby's mouth, protruding and full, moist and tender, so alluring. He pressed his lips against it and began to lick vigorously. Soon, it was warm and wet, glistening with fluid, the color of human milk, emitting a captivating fragrance. Her vulva opened and closed, like a baby's mouth waiting to be fed.

Xue Jinxian lay on the bed, legs spread, her face charming and alluring, her eyes half-open, hazy with intoxication, moaning softly.

Seeing that she was completely captivated, Zhu Chuanzong stood up, carefully observing her seductive state, hearing her soft breathing, and his jade stem erect.

He held Xue Jinxian's legs with one hand, and with the other, lifted his jade stem, gently thrusting it against her vulva. Xue Jinxian cried out softly, her legs involuntarily clamping tighter and tighter.

Zhu Chuanzong looked down and saw that even the tip of his penis hadn't entered. He pushed again, but still couldn't penetrate. Xue Jinxian was a virgin, her vagina untouched; how could he easily enter? At this moment, Xue Jinxian cried out, "Good husband, slow down, I'm a little scared."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "What's there to be afraid of? I'll take it slow!" He rubbed his penis against her vulva, sometimes to the left, sometimes to the right, sometimes up, sometimes down, like rolling dough, not going deep for the time being. Before long, his penis was covered with the white fluid flowing from Xue Jinxian's vagina, plus the slippery substance flowing from the tip, making her vagina seem like a flood, overflowing. At this moment, Xue Jinxian's breathing became even heavier.

Zhu Chuanzong then aimed at her vagina, gently pressing the tip against her entrance, and with a little force, the tip slid in.

Xue Jinxian let out a soft moan, and at the same time, a stream of blood flowed from her orifice, staining the jade stem and running down her jade legs like earthworms. The bright red blood was dazzling. Xue Jinxian felt unbearable pain inside her orifice, which was completely filled. She had never experienced such a sensation before, and fear gripped her heart.

Startled, Xue Jinxian jerked her body back, and the head slipped out again. Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Where are you going? You're mine today, you can never run away!" He put the jade stem back in, holding Xue Jinxian's exquisitely white buttocks, and gently thrust in and out. At first, Xue Jinxian felt a throbbing pain, but after Zhu Chuanzong slowly thrust a few times, it gradually became smoother. The in-and-out motion of the jade stem was very pleasurable; her pores opened, and her whole body felt exceptionally comfortable. The unbearable pain subsided, replaced by an unbearable itch that went straight to her heart, causing her to groan involuntarily. Hearing her moans, Zhu Chuanzong knew it was time and began thrusting forcefully, making Xue Jinxian groan repeatedly.

Zhu Chuanzong felt her vaginal opening contract repeatedly, squeezing him with unparalleled pleasure. Every pore on his body seemed to open up, and he wanted to sing and chant, thinking to himself, "This pleasure is truly unforgettable! It's far more pleasurable than any heavenly bliss." Xue Jinxian also felt a thousand insects crawling around her lower body, an unbearable itch. The two of them, one thrusting with all his might, the other eagerly responding, their lust ignited together, their desire burning in unison, experiencing pleasure together.

Zhu Chuanzong felt his penis being enveloped by that warm flesh, like wearing a leather jacket in the dead of winter, or like bare feet slipping into warm, furry leather boots, extremely comfortable. Therefore, he thrust harder and harder, finally thrusting with all his might.

Not long after, Zhu Chuanzong felt as if something was clenching his heart, a strong surge of excitement welled up inside him, his penis twitched and contracted, and a stream of semen gushed out, leaving him feeling completely comfortable and refreshed. Xue Jinxian felt a surge of heat inside her, a wave of heat rushing towards her, striking the bottom of her vagina, a wave of dizziness washing over her, she cried out in excitement, and then fainted, only waking up after a long while. The two embraced and fell asleep.

Upon waking in the morning, Zhu Chuanzong and Xue Jinxian, inside the brocade curtain, took out the wedding handkerchief. Examining the crimson stain, Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "This is all my doing."

Xue Jinxian retorted, "It's all your fault! Put it away!" Zhu Chuanzong smiled and put it away, saying, "So you knew your sworn brother's identity all along, but why didn't you tell me sooner? You kept me in the dark like a fool."

Xue Jinxian laughed, "You can't blame others for making your own well too deep. You're so stupid you can't see it, how can you blame others?" Zhu Chuanzong laughed heartily, saying, "You can't blame others for making your own well too deep! Well said. Come, come, let my rope test how deep your well is."

Xue Jinxian's pretty face flushed instantly, and she retorted, "You can't expect anything good to come out of a dog's mouth! What nonsense are you spouting! If you do this again, I'll make you sleep on a door tonight."

Their teasing continued, and in a moment of passion, they made love again, which need not be described in detail.

Newlywed Zhu Chuanzong was immersed in blissful bliss, rarely even visiting the Hanlin Academy. He and Xue Jinxian were

deeply in love, enjoying the pleasures of their intimate moments. One day, as he was drawing his wife's eyebrows, the First Prince, Tang Zhi, arrived. This time, he was again disguised as the scholar Huang Qi, but his attire was luxurious, exuding a royal air. Upon entering, he smiled and said, "My worthy brother, you've recently passed the imperial examination and married such a beautiful woman. You're so happy you've forgotten

all your troubles." Zhu Chuanzong wanted to perform the formal courtesies expected of a subject, but Tang Zhi stopped him, saying, "I am merely a prince without power. What use are such empty formalities? Besides, we are brothers; don't stand on ceremony."

Seeing the sincerity in his words, Zhu Chuanzong let it go.

Tang Zhidao said, "I didn't want to disturb your carefree life, but a major event is approaching, so I have no choice but to swallow my pride and come to ask for your help. I'm afraid I'll have to trouble you and your sister."

Zhu Chuanzong had heard him mention helping more than once, and hurriedly said, "My relationship with Jinxian is all thanks to your efforts, brother. Your affairs are my affairs, so please give me your instructions."

Tang Zhi then revealed his intentions. It turned out that Emperor Mingzong's sixtieth birthday was in a month, and the princes were eagerly searching for rare treasures to please their father. Although Tang Zhi was a prince, he had always been powerless and unable to afford an expensive birthday gift, hence his considerable deliberation.

Zhu Chuanzong, hearing this, said, "So, elder brother is worried about this. It's just money, isn't it? The Zhu family has plenty of gold and silver; leave it to me."

Tang Zhi shook his head and smiled, "The Zhu family is incredibly wealthy, so we certainly don't lack money. However, even the richest family can't compare to the imperial family! A birthday gift isn't about its value, but about the thoughtfulness of the gift. I've thought long and hard, and I've come up with something that will surely please Father."

He then looked at Xue Jinxian and said, "It's a dragon robe embroidered with the dragon and phoenix needlework technique."

Xue Jinxian's expression changed, and he hesitated, as if he had something difficult to say.

Tang Zhi smiled and said, "Sister, don't panic. I know that when your mother taught you the Dragon and Phoenix Needle Technique, she instructed you not to easily reveal it to outsiders. However, in this world, I am the only one who knows you possess this skill. Your mother was originally a palace maid who learned this exquisite needlework technique from a master craftsman in the imperial workshop. Did she ever tell you that she had a senior sister?" Xue Jinxian thought for a moment and said, "She did mention it, but she was vague. It seemed to be a palace maid who worked with my mother."

Tang Zhi's expression darkened, and he nodded, "That palace maid was my mother. My mother and your mother were like sisters. I searched for you for several years before I found out. An old eunuch in the palace told me about the friendship between our two families. Your mother protected my pregnant mother in many ways back then, which is why I was not killed in the womb. To repay your mother's kindness, I sent people to secretly protect your family."

It turned out that Tang Zhi's mother was very much liked by Emperor Mingzong because of her exceptional embroidery skills. After a single moment of favor, she became pregnant and gave birth to Tang Zhi. However, being a palace maid, she was secretly plotted against by the other concubines, and being physically weak, she died shortly after giving birth, without even the title of concubine. As the number of princes increased, Tang Zhi was gradually forgotten by Emperor Mingzong, becoming the most vulnerable among them.

Tang Zhi heard that Emperor Mingzong had once loved wearing the dragon robes embroidered by his mother, so he painstakingly searched for the successor of the dragon and phoenix needlework technique, finally finding Xue Jinxian.

Xue Jinxian said, "I thought my elder brother was only being nice to me because he wanted me to embroider the dragon robe for you!" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "So it turns out my elder brother had his eye on my wife all along! No wonder he was so enthusiastic about arranging our marriage and even gave me the dragon and phoenix gold needles—it was all premeditated."

Tang Zhi hurriedly said, "I'm ashamed, I'm ashamed! Although I have some selfish motives, my feelings for you are genuine. Heaven and earth can bear witness! If you weren't willing to help me, that would be fine. It's just that my mother and father became connected because of the dragon robe, so I..." "I've always had this wish. If you find it difficult, then so be it! It's all fate."

Xue Jinxian laughed, "Brother, you're overthinking it. Actually, I've been preparing materials to help you. Even if you hadn't come, I would have finished embroidering it for you."

Tang Zhi was overjoyed and said, "You're truly my good sister."

Xue Jinxian smiled, "I was short of a good needle, and your dragon and phoenix needle will come in handy. Just wait for me, brother."

After that, Xue Jinxian began to work. The dragon and phoenix needlework was intricate and complex, requiring considerable effort. Xue Jinxian spent her days embroidering the dragon robe in her room, and no longer had time to be intimate with Zhu Chuanzong. Zhu Chuanzong had no choice but to return to the Hanlin Academy, where he could catch up on the lessons he had missed.

In the blink of an eye, his birthday was approaching, and the dragon robe was finished. Golden threads were intertwined, clouds were swirling, and a five-clawed golden dragon was majestic and powerful, as if it were about to break through the sky and fly away. It was indeed a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Seeing his wife looking tired and haggard, Zhu Chuanzong felt a pang of heartache and embraced her tenderly.

On Emperor Mingzong's birthday, the entire court celebrated. The eldest prince, Tang Zhi's, birthday gift was rather unremarkable compared to the others' treasures, initially drawing ridicule from the other princes. However, Emperor Mingzong was delighted upon seeing it, holding it close to his eyes, admiring it with great affection, and recalling past events, he couldn't help but feel sentimental.

Not long after, Emperor Mingzong summoned Tang Zhi and inquired about his recent situation, feeling a pang of guilt. He had known Tang Zhi's mother since his youth and admired her exquisite needlework. However, with the increasing number of concubines, he had gradually forgotten their past affection, even having little memory of this son. Today, seeing the gift brought back memories, and a sudden urge to make amends arose within him.

Emperor Mingzong, knowing that among the adult princes, only Tang Zhi lacked both a title and fiefdom, relying solely on the stipend from the Imperial Household Department, immediately issued an edict bestowing upon Tang Zhi the title of Prince of Qi, granting him a fiefdom of ten thousand households.

Tang Zhi's rise to power through a single imperial robe was the envy of many. Although his fiefdom was small among the princes, he had at least secured the treatment he deserved. Afterwards, he specially hosted a banquet to thank Zhu Chuanzong. Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Brother, now that you are the Prince of Qi, you finally have power and no longer need to lament your lack of opportunity!" Tang Zhi, also somewhat smug, replied, "Brother, I owe my success to you today. We will share wealth and honor in the future, and I will never break my promise."

Soon after, he became drunk and began to speak at length about his ambitions for governing the country. Zhu Chuanzong, now aware of his status, could no longer dismiss his drunken talk as mere rhetoric and could only carefully accompany him, not daring to engage in inappropriate conversation. Finally, the banquet ended, and he was escorted home by the guards of the Prince's residence. Zhu Chuanzong, eager to return home, went straight back to his new home next to the Hanlin Academy to be with his beloved wife.

Chapter Seven: Solving Another Strange Case

. From then on, Zhu Chuanzong lived a fulfilling and happy life. Xue Jinxian stayed home to accompany him in his studies, and with a beautiful woman by his side, he was truly carefree and content. Although he sometimes had to deal with the deceptive examinations of the Hanlin Academy, firstly, the requirements were not strict to begin with, and secondly, the dean was his relative, so all the examinations were easy to pass.

Zhu Chuanzong searched for books he liked in the Hanlin Academy's collection and gained a new understanding of life and the world. Mr. Wu Siyuan visited him several times and was impressed by his scholarship and insight.

Half a year passed in the blink of an eye, and suddenly the imperial court sent an edict, temporarily reinstating him to his position in the Censorate to handle a case.

A case had occurred in the capital: a suspect was driving a carriage through a bustling city when it went out of control, hitting twenty-eight people, killing twenty. After an investigation by the Ministry of Justice, the suspect was found to be possessed and released without charge, only required to pay substantial compensation to the victims. The case should have ended there, but the victims' families were dissatisfied with the verdict, uniting over a hundred people and causing a major disturbance. The matter eventually reached the Emperor's ears. The Emperor, finding the case suspicious, remembered Zhu Chuanzong, known for his impartiality and integrity, and his studies at the Hanlin Academy, far removed from officialdom

. He believed that appointing him to preside over the case would demonstrate the court's fairness and impartiality, so he issued an imperial decree. Zhu Chuanzong received the decree in the main hall, bid farewell to the Emperor, and went to the Censorate to receive the case files. His assistant in the case was a minor official of the sixth rank named Wang Feng.

Seeing that Wang Feng was unfamiliar, Zhu Chuanzong inquired about him with acquaintances, who secretly revealed Wang Feng's background to him.

It turns out that Wang Feng was originally a soldier guarding the gate of the Censorate. One night, while guarding the gate, he happened to encounter Wang Ren, the highest-ranking official of the Censorate and Left Censor-in-Chief, who wanted to enter on official business. However, Wang Feng stopped him, refusing to let him in no matter what. It turned out that there were proper procedures for entering the gate at night, but Wang Ren, being of high rank, came and went as he pleased, and had

no official seal or documents with him. Wang Feng maintained a strictly official demeanor, and Wang Ren ultimately refused to enter.

Finally, someone was sent to retrieve the official seal before he was allowed to pass. The next day, Wang Ren and some officials held a meeting, praising Wang Feng for his strict and conscientious attitude, his responsibility to the court, and his work. He was promoted to the seventh rank, an exceptional promotion that went unchallenged. Thus, Wang Feng became an official overnight, and later rose another rank, now being a sixth-rank official.

Zhu Chuanzong, upon hearing this, exclaimed in amazement and praised him highly. Finally, one official, unable to bear it any longer, quietly told Zhu Chuanzong the truth: Wang Feng was a relative of Wang Ren, a member of the same clan from their hometown.

Zhu Chuanzong suddenly realized what was going on, but he immediately hung his head in dejection, feeling that he had become a bit dull-witted from burying himself in books at the Hanlin Academy these days.

In the Great Liang Kingdom, the selection of talent has always been based primarily on interpersonal relationships and backgrounds. As for actual ability, it's only used by a very few when the court has a need. If it weren't for his father's connections, Zhu Chuanzong wouldn't have been able to become an official, let alone a minor clerk. Even with immense talent, it would be useless.

While studying at the Hanlin Academy, Zhu Chuanzong had heard rumors and inside stories, and had long since seen through the affairs of the Great Liang Kingdom.

However, since the Emperor valued him and had asked him to handle the case for the sake of the Tang family's dynasty, he would do his best. He wasn't doing it for any other reason than to seek justice for the common people. Although his individual abilities were limited, he would do his part.

Zhu Chuanzong read through all the case files and roughly understood the case. The suspect, Li Mouren, was a fifth-rank official in the Ministry of Personnel. That day, he was driving a carriage through the bustling city when it went out of control, hitting twenty-eight people, killing twenty of them.

The Ministry of Justice's investigation concluded that Li Mouren discovered a suspicious man was following him and plotting to kill him, so he fled in his car. During his escape, he lost his bearings and crashed into a crowd in a busy city. After the incident, the Ministry of Justice requested a coroner and a doctor to conduct an autopsy on the suspect. The autopsy determined that Li Mouren was possessed at the time of the incident and had no criminal responsibility.

Zhu Chuanzong found the case straightforward and uncomplicated. Li Mouren was an official in the Ministry of Personnel; how could he hold office if he had a hidden illness?

Zhu Chuanzong immediately summoned the official who had handled the case for questioning. The official was very polite but smiled and replied, "This illness comes on suddenly and is beyond human control. If it hadn't suddenly manifested, how could it be called possession? Besides, if it had been discovered earlier, Li Mouren wouldn't have been able to hold office, and this tragedy wouldn't have happened."

Although Zhu Chuanzong knew he was talking nonsense, he had no evidence to accuse him and asked him to return to the yamen.

He pondered for a long time, but couldn't find a clue. Just then, Wu Siyuan came to visit, and he hurriedly sought his advice.

After listening to the case, Wu Siyuan smiled slightly and said, "Sir, your learning is excellent, but you still sometimes understand and sometimes you don't. As the saying goes, 'When things are abnormal, there is something fishy.' This case has two flaws. First, Li Mouren is clearly a regular official, yet someone used the absurd excuse of being possessed by a demon to exonerate him after he committed a crime. His identity must be suspicious. Second, the fact that those victims could make their grievances reach the Emperor's ears is not something ordinary people can do. As the saying goes, 'The common people cannot fight against officials.' Li Mouren is a fifth-rank official in the capital. If ordinary people killed a hundred of him, they would be fine. Who could do anything to him? Now he is implicated in a case, which shows that there is something more to the story among the victims!" Zhu Chuanzong received the guidance and suddenly understood. During the investigation, he started by examining the identities of both parties, and the truth finally came to light. It turned out that Li Mouren was not only an Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, but also the cousin of the Left Chancellor Li Yiheng. The victims weren't all ordinary people. Among them was a boy surnamed Luo, about fourteen or fifteen years old, the son of a Vice Minister of the Court of Judicial Review. He had run away from home to play in the streets and unexpectedly met with this misfortune

. Zhu Chuanzong reviewed the case files and found that initially, the families of the victims had all agreed to accept compensation, except for the Vice Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, who refused to settle. Somehow, the other families later changed their minds and went to the yamen to cause trouble, which alerted the emperor.

Zhu Chuanzong sent someone to summon Lord Luo for questioning. Lord Luo was quite straightforward and directly admitted that he had instigated the families to cause trouble. Each family gave a considerable amount of money, more than the compensation Li Mouren had agreed to, on the condition that they continue to protest their innocence until Li Mouren was sentenced to death.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Lord Luo, as the Vice Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, you are an official enforcing the law. Don't you know that inciting the people is a serious crime?" Lord Luo sneered, "Precisely because I am an official enforcing the law, I know that the law is useless. Li Mouren is a relative of the Left Chancellor. Who dares to sentence him to death? Let alone those penniless and powerless aggrieved parties, even I, a fourth-rank official, would be threatened by the Left Chancellor with my career to force me to withdraw the lawsuit. If I don't make a big fuss, wouldn't my son's death have been in vain?" Zhu Chuanzong thought to himself, "Indeed..." "That's how it is."

He then deliberately asked, "Lord Luo, by opposing the Left Prime Minister like this, do you not care about your official position?" Lord Luo's eyes reddened, and he angrily said, "My Luo family has only one son for four generations. Now that the incense has been extinguished, what am I afraid of? At worst, I'll fight to the death and make sure Li Mouren is badly injured, if not dead!" He turned to leave, but turned back before leaving and said, "I heard that Lord Zhu is upright and fair. It turns out he's just like me!" Wu Siyuan, having heard the truth of the case, still smiled and remained silent. Zhu Chuanzong said, "Please teach me, sir!" Wu Siyuan said, "Now it seems that this case is actually very simple; what's complicated is the relationship behind it. In essence, it's a contest of power between the two sides."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "The basis for judging a case is the law. No matter how powerful the forces behind it are, can they confuse right and wrong?" Wu Siyuan smiled and said, "If you could see through the surface illusion, you wouldn't say that. Li Mouren is an official, and the victim is a commoner; therefore, Li Mouren killed someone in the accident but doesn't have to pay with his life. Lord Luo has a higher official position than Li Mouren, so he can overturn the case." But Li Mouren has the Left Chancellor as his backer, and compared to the Left Chancellor, Lord Luo is nothing. This is called a chain of events. Whoever has the highest rank and the greatest power is the law.”

Zhu Chuanzong said, “But I saw that Lord Luo righteously denouncing the darkness of officialdom, and he seemed like a righteous person.”

Wu Siyuan shook his head and said, “He criticizes officialdom because it touches his interests. If his son hadn’t been harmed, he wouldn’t have stood up for him. In fact, if it had been his son who hit the person, he might have done even worse than Li Mouren.”

Zhu Chuanzong was stunned. In fact, with his experience over the past few years and his understanding of officialdom, how could he not understand these principles? It’s just that he still had a childlike heart and deliberately didn’t think about it. He paused for a moment, then said, "In other words, if it weren't for the Left Prime Minister's connections, even if Li Mouren were truly possessed, he wouldn't be held responsible, and Lord Luo would still find a way to sentence him to death because of Lord Luo's high rank. Isn't that the logic?" Wu Siyuan clapped his hands and laughed, "Sir, you've finally grasped the point!"

Zhu Chuanzong sighed, "I'd rather I hadn't grasped it. Mr. Wu, what do you think should be done with this case?" Wu Siyuan said, "Sir, you've already seen through it all, why ask such a question? Naturally, uphold the original verdict. Those witnesses and doctors are all afraid of the Left Prime Minister's power; no one will tell the truth. Lord Luo will give up on you, and the Left Prime Minister will remember your kindness. What's there to hesitate about?" Zhu Chuanzong remained silent. Wu Siyuan said, "Sir, you still can't let go. This case is easy to investigate, but difficult to handle. Sir, please take care of yourself."

He then took his leave.

Zhu Chuanzong didn't make a decision immediately, and the next day, as usual, he interrogated Li Mouren. Li Mouren, having spent many days in prison, had actually grown plump and energetic, nonchalantly saying to Zhu Chuanzong, "Lord Zhu, why bother with this? The case is clear; just close it quickly. I'm waiting to get out, recover from my illness, and return to my post."

Seeing his arrogant demeanor, Zhu Chuanzong angrily adjourned the court.

The bailiffs all kept their distance, fearing to anger the magistrate.

Zhu Chuanzong thought of the victims grieving the loss of their loved ones, while the perpetrator was enjoying himself in prison, not only unpunished but also able to continue his official career upon release. The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. He thought, "No matter how dark the officialdom is, no matter how many injustices there are, I will address each one I see. Do you think I really can't do anything to you?" When he returned to court, without saying a word, he ordered the torture to begin.

According to the laws of the Great Liang Dynasty, torture was a legal interrogation method, but Zhu Chuanzong was reluctant to use it because he felt it might lead to forced confessions.

In fact, as Wu Siyuan said, the difficulty of this case lay in its underlying details; the plot was extremely simple. Li Mouren couldn't withstand two light tortures and confessed immediately. Seeing the situation was turning against them, the doctors and witnesses all recanted their testimonies and kowtowed in confession.

Zhu Chuanzong presented the confessions to Emperor Mingzong. Coincidentally, Emperor Mingzong had just returned from a major campaign and was looking to rectify officialdom and establish a clean and honest political image for the people. He used this case as an example. He immediately reprimanded the officials in court, demanding severe punishment for corrupt officials and restoring justice to the people. Li Yiheng, sensing the shift in the political climate, didn't dare plead for his nephew.

In the end, the case was closed, and Li Mouren was sentenced to immediate execution. The other doctors and witnesses who gave false testimony, and the corrupt officials, were either stripped of their property or exiled. No one escaped justice.

The people were all delighted, praising Zhu Chuanzong for his fearlessness in the face of power and his fair dealings.

When Zhu Chuanzong saw Wu Siyuan again, he said smugly, "Mr. Wu, you see, I not only solved this case, but it wasn't as serious as you said. It seems your theory of the interconnectedness of officialdom isn't entirely true."

Wu Siyuan smiled and said, "Your Excellency is mistaken. The reason Li Mouren was brought down by you even with the Left Prime Minister as his backer is because you have an even stronger backer: the current Emperor. The biggest link in officialdom is the Emperor himself!" Zhu Chuanzong was stunned for a moment, speechless.

Wu Siyuan said, "Regardless, it's a good thing that you've solved another major case, sir. With more experience in officialdom, your potential is limitless."

Zhu Chuanzong, after this incident, admired Wu Siyuan even more and said, "Sir, please tell me more about the intricacies of officialdom."

Wu Siyuan said, "Sir, you've seen many official documents and signatures these past few days in the yamen, so I'll explain it to you. There's a lot to learn about officials' signatures. When subordinates see an official sign 'According to regulations,' it means it can be done, and they usually do it quickly because the subordinate is expressing gratitude to the official." One of the best ways to demonstrate loyalty is to be willing to take risks for officials. In the future, when higher authorities investigate these matters, any signature stating "handled according to regulations" can be interpreted as the signature being correct; the mistake lies in the subordinate not following the "regulations."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "It's truly astonishing; the art of signing is immense."

Wu Siyuan said, "Even drawing circles has its nuances. Nowadays, to save time, officials use circles to sign documents, signifying 'agreement.' Most people see an official circle on a document and assume they agree. But they don't realize..." "There's an art to drawing circles,"

Wu Siyuan said. "Oh? Please enlighten me."

Wu Siyuan continued, "In some cases, although circles were drawn during the review by various officials, no official was ultimately held accountable. It turns out that the officials didn't circle the word 'handle' in the document, but rather circled ambiguous neutral words or their own names. As long as it wasn't a circle around words like 'agree' or 'handle,' it could be interpreted as the official not having agreed. Therefore, when higher-level officials investigate, this evidence cannot be based on guesswork or imagination; this is something that cannot be investigated by the unit." "The responsibility of officials."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Brilliant, truly brilliant. These are things not found in books. If I hadn't heard you mention them, I wouldn't have known such a field of knowledge existed."

Wu Siyuan said, "And there's 'agreeing to ask so-and-so to handle it,' which is utterly baffling. 'Agreeing to ask so-and-so to handle it,' there's no comma after the word 'agree,' no pauses. You can say I agree to handle this matter, or you can say I only agree to let so-and-so handle this matter. It has many meanings, but in short, the responsibility doesn't lie with him."

Zhu Chuanzong humbly sought guidance, and before he knew it, he had been talking for half the night.

Although he had solved the case, he had seen too much of the darkness within it, and therefore was not happy at all. Back home, he was still sullen.

Xue Jinxian was embroidering in the room, and as she embroidered, she asked, "Husband, you've just solved a major case, received the Emperor's commendation, and the people's praise. What else is troubling you?" Zhu Chuanzong looked at his charming wife, and his worries gradually disappeared. He put his arm around her fragrant shoulder and recounted the intricate explanations Mr. Wu had given him. Sighing, Xue Jinxian sighed, "These intertwined relationships are truly detestable. If only they could all be eliminated."

She thought for a moment, then lowered her head and continued working. A gentle smile played on her lips, as if she were deep in thought.

Zhu Chuanzong, with a fawning grin, leaned closer and said, "Jinxian, do you dare laugh at your husband?" Xue Jinxian retorted, "How could I dare? I don't understand those grand principles of governance. But from what you've said, the network of relationships in officialdom is somewhat like weaving and embroidery. If the threads are tangled, the cloth will be scattered and broken; if they are orderly, it will still be a sturdy and neat piece of fabric."

Zhu Chuanzong, as if waking from a dream, laughed, "So you were reminding me! Yes, since people become officials, relationships are inevitable. The solution isn't to eliminate them, but to regulate them. As long as there are checks and balances, there's no need to fear anyone abusing their power. My wife, you've truly awakened me from my reverie."

Zhu Chuanzong understood this, and his worries vanished. He frequented the Hanlin Academy more often, studying the works of his predecessors daily, seeking the principles of regulation and discipline. Xue Jinxian was pleased to see his dedication to learning.

Half a year passed in the blink of an eye. Zhu Chuanzong was granted special permission by the Emperor to graduate smoothly from the Hanlin Academy. Because he had solved several major cases, the Emperor appreciated his talent and transferred him from the Censorate to the Ministry of Justice, promoting him by half a rank to become a third-rank Vice Minister of Justice.

He had been at the Ministry of Justice for over a month without encountering any major cases. One day, feeling bored and restless, he thought about how he hadn't been back to the Zhu residence for a long time and how his beauties must be missing him terribly. Feeling a little restless, he took sick leave and went home.

As Zhu Chuanzong walked home, he was almost at the gate when he suddenly saw a woman waving at him from afar. He saw that the woman had exquisite features and was incredibly beautiful; it was none other than Shui Ling'er, whom he hadn't seen for a long time. He quickly rubbed his eyes and looked closely; indeed, it was Shui Ling'er smiling and standing at the street corner.

Zhu Chuanzong hurriedly stepped forward, grabbed Shui Ling'er's small hand, and said, "Why are you here? I thought I would never see you again in this life!" Shui Ling'er blushed, pulled her hand away, and said, "Don't do that, what nonsense are you talking about? This is my godfather."

She then pointed to the side.

Zhu Chuanzong was taken aback. He saw a man in his forties, with a fair complexion and black beard, quite refined. The man smiled at him and said, "I am Shui Fengliang. I have long admired your name, but have never had the chance to meet you. It is truly an honor to meet you today."

Zhu Chuanzong's eyes had been fixed on Shui Ling'er, but upon hearing Shui Fengliang speak, he realized who he was. His mind raced, and he became happy, laughing, "So it's Uncle Shui! Don't be so polite. Miss Shui and I are sworn brothers, our friendship is very deep. You don't need to be so formal. How about I treat you to a meal? Would you do me the honor?" Shui Fengliang was about to refuse when Shui Ling'er said, "This man is a very wealthy man, he has plundered a lot of the people's wealth. Father, don't be polite with him!" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Yes, what's mine is Ling'er's. No need to be polite."

His words were loaded with meaning, and Shui Ling'er blushed deeply. If they weren't on the street, she probably would have drawn her sword and slashed him a few times.

Shui Fengliang didn't refuse any longer, and the three of them went to a restaurant.

Shui Fengliang said, "The capital is truly a prosperous and dazzling city, a world of dazzling lights. It's a pity that so many people are still displaced and homeless; it's truly an injustice of Heaven."

Zhu Chuanzong thought to himself, "You can keep these treasonous words to yourself, but to spout such nonsense so openly, do you think I, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice, don't exist? I saved you last time because of Ling'er, and you haven't improved at all?" He quickly interrupted him, "Uncle Shui, the court now considers your sect a heretical cult and has issued bounties for your capture. How dare you come to the capital, a place of great importance?" Shui Fengliang said, "To be honest, I came to the capital specifically to preach, hoping to let more people hear the teachings of the Supreme Lord Laozi."

Zhu Chuanzong thought to himself, "You really don't know anything. You don't value your own life, but if you implicate my Ling'er, it will be terrible." Just then, Shui Fengliang said, "However, there are many dangers involved in this journey, and I am truly worried about taking Ling'er with me. I entrust her to Lord Zhu, and I hope you will take good care of her."

Zhu Chuanzong hurriedly nodded in agreement. Shui Ling'er refused, insisting on staying with her adoptive father. Shui Fengliang's face darkened, exuding an air of authority. Shui Ling'er pouted, but dared not argue further.

After the meal, Shui Fengliang took his leave. Only then did Zhu Chuanzong take Shui Ling'er's hand and say softly, "Ling'er, I've missed you so much. Please don't leave again, okay?" Shui Ling'er blushed and glared at him, saying, "Are you going to lock me up like a sparrow again?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "I do want to lock you up, but not as a sparrow."

Shui Ling'er asked, "As what?" Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "As my wife."

Shui Ling'er blushed deeply and tried to pull her hand back, but Zhu Chuanzong wouldn't let go. She struggled for a moment, but Zhu Chuanzong pulled her into his arms. He rubbed her waist with his large hand, and Shui Ling'er immediately lost her strength and went limp, muttering softly, "You bad guy, you just take advantage of me!" The two snuggled together, pouring out their hearts to each other.

For over a year, Shui Ling'er had been traveling with her adoptive father, spreading their faith and occasionally robbing the rich to help the poor. Zhu Chuanzong said with pity, "Don't do these arduous and dangerous things anymore."

Shui Ling'er smiled slightly and said, "I'm not afraid. Seeking happiness for all people is the purpose of my religion. Even if I sacrifice my life, it's nothing."

Zhu Chuanzong thought to himself, "She really is still that chivalrous woman who cares deeply for the people. If she were afraid of death, she wouldn't be Shui Ling'er." He couldn't help but hug her tighter, his heart filled with tenderness.

Shui Ling'er said, "I heard about it as soon as I entered the capital. Last year, you stood up for the people and solved a major case. Now the people admire you very much! I knew I hadn't misjudged you."

Zhu Chuanzong whispered. "Then when will you marry me?" Shui Ling'er winked mischievously and said, "I'll consider it after you solve another big case."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "You always lie to me, I don't believe you anymore. After I solve the case, you leave a note and run away again, where am I supposed to find you?" Shui Ling'er laughed, "This time I won't run away."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Are you serious? What case? Tell me."

It turned out that before coming to the capital, Shui Ling'er had heard about another strange case. A naked corpse of a woman had occurred in Huai'an Prefecture, Ningzhi Province. She died with her lover. The woman said it was murder, the man said she died of illness, and they each had their own version of events. Because both families were wealthy, the matter became the talk of the town, and the local authorities had already conducted several trials, but the truth remained elusive.

Zhu Chuanzong thought for a moment and said, "This case seems to have been reported to the Ministry of Justice before. Since I didn't see anything particularly interesting, I didn't look at it carefully. I'll go back and take a look."

He returned to his office, retrieved the case file, and after a careful examination, found it indeed interesting. Having nothing to do at the Ministry of Justice, and having fulfilled his promise to Shui Ling'er, he volunteered to investigate the case. Most people would avoid investigating unsolved cases like this, which local authorities couldn't resolve. Zhu Chuanzong's initiative pleased his superiors, who, while annoyed by his meddling, hoped he would leave the capital so they would be free to bribe and accept favors. After receiving the official documents from the provincial governor, Zhu Chuanzong, along with his entourage, set off for Ningzhi Province.

By the time he arrived in Huai'an Prefecture, more than six months had passed since the case occurred. It had been investigated by four levels of government: county, prefecture, and province. Most surprisingly, the verdict changed at each level. The county government ruled that the man had raped and murdered the woman. The man's family appealed, and the prefecture government retried the case, ruling that the woman had died of illness. The woman appealed again, and the prefectural government ruled it murder. The man appealed again, and the provincial government re-determined the cause of death as illness. It was truly a series of twists and turns, astonishing.

Having learned from Li Mouren's case, Zhu Chuanzong first investigated the identities of both families. Upon investigation, he found something quite convincing. The woman who died suddenly was surnamed Lan, and her family was a well-known and wealthy merchant family in Ningzhi Province. Her lover, surnamed Jiang, was also no ordinary person; he was the nephew of the Ningzhi Provincial Surveillance Commissioner. No wonder he could make a murder case known throughout the province. In

such a murder case, the first step is naturally an autopsy. However, when Zhu Chuanzong ordered the body to be brought in, it was already beyond recognition. It turned out that the case had been tried four times, and the coroner had examined the body four times. Combined with the passage of time, it was now completely unrecognizable, and not a single clue could be found.

Helpless, Zhu Chuanzong had no choice but to review the previous coroner's autopsy report. The county and prefectural autopsy reports stated that the woman's genitals showed signs of intercourse, but no semen was found. Rape and murder were suspected. The state and provincial autopsy reports stated that the woman showed signs of asphyxiation and had phlegm in her throat. An asthma attack was suspected, leading to death by suffocation.

Although the two reports reached contradictory conclusions, they were not conflicting based on different criteria. If both reports were true, then both causes of death were indeed possible.

The investigation reached a stalemate. Zhu Chuanzong was somewhat at a loss. The Lan and Jiang families also began to exert pressure on Zhu Chuanzong. Fortunately, the Zhu family was powerful, so he didn't need to worry about them for the time being.

He was pondering a solution in the inn when Shui Ling'er entered, laughing, "Why has there been no movement these past few days? Don't you always say you're clever and a righteous official? If you don't find out the truth soon, that wronged girl might come running to you in the middle of the night to urge you!" Zhu Chuanzong listened to her, stunned for a moment, then suddenly his eyes lit up, and he said, "I've got an idea!" The next night, in the dark cell where the suspect Jiang was being held, Jiang was fast asleep when he was suddenly awakened by a strange sound. The sound was intermittent, like a woman's sobbing.

Jiang's face changed drastically; he leaned against the corner of the wall, trembling all over, and cried for help. But no one paid him any attention.

After a while, suddenly a woman dressed in white, with disheveled hair, flew around in the air. She cried out, "I died so tragically! You'll pay for my life!" Jiang screamed in terror, kneeling and kowtowing, begging, "I didn't mean to kill you. I'll burn more paper money for you, please spare me!" The female ghost floated in the air, coldly saying, "You beast, if you want me to spare you, write down everything you did to kill me. I'll put it on record with the King of Hell, and when your lifespan ends, I'll settle accounts!" She tossed him paper and pen.

Jiang, hearing he wouldn't die, was terrified and, without thinking, trembling, wrote down everything. The female ghost took the pen, chuckled coldly for a moment, and flew away.

Once outside the prison, she suddenly burst into laughter, tossing back her disheveled hair—it was Shui Ling'er! It turned out this was Zhu Chuanzong's plan. He had Shui Ling'er use her superb martial arts skills to impersonate a female ghost and test Jiang. If he hadn't killed Lan Nu, he would have no guilt and wouldn't be afraid. If he had, he would be frightened and reveal his identity, allowing Zhu to force a confession.

Now, with a confession, the truth was finally revealed. It turned out that on the day Lan Nu met Jiang, he was overcome with lust and wanted to have sex with her. Lan Nu refused, so Jiang forcibly raped her. However, just as he was about to finish, he suddenly had a lewd thought and stuffed his penis into Lan Nu's mouth, demanding she suck it. Lan Nu struggled violently, and Jiang grabbed her neck. After ejaculating in her mouth, he found she had suffocated to death.

This is why there were two autopsy reports. The woman's genitals showed no semen, so rape couldn't be confirmed. She died of suffocation, and the presence of phlegm in her throat, a symptom of asthma, was actually male semen.

Zhu Chuanzong announced the details of the case, and Lan Nu could finally rest in peace. The case was bizarre, and the methods used to solve it were extremely ingenious, truly admirable.

When Zhu Chuanzong reported the results to the Ministry of Justice, not only was Jiang guilty of raping and murdering a woman, but a separate case was also opened. It turned out that the county, prefecture, and provincial governments were all corrupt. The county and prefecture governments had accepted money from the Lan family, so they found Jiang guilty. The prefecture and provincial governments, however, had been influenced by the Jiang family and, fearing to offend Jiang's uncle, the Provincial Surveillance Commissioner Ningzhi, they found Jiang innocent.

Zhu Chuanzong accused them of accepting bribes, embezzlement, collusion between officials, and dereliction of duty. Soon after, the court issued a reply, and the local officials at the county and prefecture levels were dismissed and investigated. However, the officials at the prefecture and province levels were only reprimanded. Zhu Chuanzong knew they had pulled strings in the court, but there was nothing he could do. After some minor cleanup, he took Shui Ling'er and returned to the capital.

Returning to the case, Wu Siyuan said, "The previous case of Li Mouren was a contest of power. This case of the woman's sudden death is a contest of power and money. It shows that no matter how much money you have, it can't compare to the power and influence of an official. Once you become an official and have power, money will naturally follow. This is why capable people risk their lives to become officials. Once they become officials, they become extremely greedy, simply because people see it as a shortcut to wealth."

Zhu Chuanzong nodded repeatedly.

This strange case spread from Ningzhi Province and gradually became known throughout the country. The process of Zhu Chuanzong's trial became increasingly mysterious, and the people said that he "judges the living by day and judges the dead by night," daring to even interfere with ghosts and gods. Zhu Chuanzong's reputation as an upright official became a household name.

05-15

Chapter 8: Shuiyue Refuses a Marriage

Zhu Chuanzong's reputation for being impartial and ruthless in judging cases spread far and wide. The Emperor, seeing his uncompromising approach to cases, regarded him as a powerful deterrent to the officialdom and thus greatly protected him. Therefore, in the capital's officialdom, everyone turned pale at the mention of Zhu Chuanzong.

Zhu Chuanzong was doing very well in his official career, and with Shui Ling'er back by his side, he had a beautiful and insightful wife at home, along with many beautiful maids to keep him company. He was truly living a carefree and happy life, better than any immortal.

But one day, he was urgently summoned home. As soon as he entered, Nuanyun stepped forward and said, "Quickly change your clothes and go pay your respects to the Old Madam! Today, the Prince of An's mansion sent someone, saying they came to propose marriage to Miss on behalf of their nephew, Young Master He Zhixiao. Isn't He Zhixiao your classmate? He's been visiting us before?" Xiaoyu helped him change into the clothes she had prepared, saying, "Hurry up, Miss is so worried. You're never home, and now that you're married, you've forgotten all about us."

Zhu Chuanzong was startled. He hated He Zhixiao and ignored Xiaoyu's scolding, cursing inwardly: "A toad trying to eat swan meat! My sister is as beautiful as a fairy; how dare you presume to be worthy of her? Besides, you dare to steal my woman? You're asking for trouble!" Thinking of Zhu Shuiyue's charming face, he felt a little flustered. He knew that such an important matter must be decided by the Old Madam, so he hurried to the warm pavilion where the Old Madam lived.

He saw that the warm pavilion was full of people. His parents were both present, and Hua Caiyun and Zhu Shuiyue were also there. As he entered, he heard Zhu Youji say, "I have met He Zhixiao, he is a good person and has a good appearance..." Zhu Chuanzong was anxious and shouted, "He can't marry him!" Zhu Shuiyue's eyes lit up, as if she had seen a savior. Her beautiful eyes looked at Zhu Chuanzong with tenderness and affection. Hua Caiyun also breathed a slight sigh of relief. Zhu Youji was a little unhappy to be interrupted and was about to lash out when Zhu Chuanzong rushed to the Old Madam's side, hugged her arm, and said, "Grandma, your grandson has come to pay his respects!" The Old Madam's eyes narrowed into slits with joy, and she kept calling him her darling. Zhu Youji did not dare to spoil the mood. After appeasing the old lady, Zhu Chuanzong greeted his parents. He then deliberately spent some more time coaxing the old lady, and taking advantage of her good mood, he shook her arm and said, "Grandma, that He Zhixiao is my classmate. He's a terrible person, greedy and lecherous. Won't my sister suffer if she marries him?" The old lady, who also doted on Zhu Shuiyue, frowned upon hearing this and asked Zhu Youji, "What's going on?" Zhu Youji secretly glared at Zhu Chuanzong, then smiled obsequiously at the old lady, "He Zhixiao has visited our home before. This child is polite and well-mannered; his upbringing is quite good. I've had people inquire about him; he's a talented person. He's a son of a member of the Hanlin Academy, so his learning is naturally excellent."

Madam Zhu also helped her husband smooth things over, saying, "Today I carefully... " "I've inquired. He Zhixiao comes from a good family; he's the nephew of Prince An. He's also talented and a good match for Shuiyue. What's rare is that he's the one who proposed. I don't think Shuiyue will be wronged."

Zhu Chuanzong, disregarding his respect for his parents, hurriedly said, "That's just an act he puts on in front of others. I'm his classmate; I see him every day. Who knows better than me?" He then said to his grandmother, "Grandma, that boy came to our house a few days ago and sneaked in at night to harass my sister. He even fell into the lake. My sister dislikes him very much. Don't believe me? Ask my sister." When He Zhixiao visited, his grandmother was unwell, and such things naturally wouldn't reach her ears, so she hadn't heard about it. Now that Zhu Chuanzong said this, he asked Zhu Shuiyue, "My dear granddaughter, is what Bao'er said true?" Zhu Chuanzong turned his back and winked at Zhu Shuiyue. Zhu Shuiyue, with her clever mind, understood immediately. Moreover, it concerned her life's most important matter; even if it was a lie, she would tell the truth, especially since it was true. She immediately lowered her beautiful eyes, her face filled with sorrow and pitifulness, and said, "It is indeed such a thing. Grandmother, Shuiyue will not marry, but vows to cultivate Taoism for life, to stay by your side forever, and to pray for your longevity. Please do me a favor."

As she spoke, she thought of her affair with Zhu Chuanzong, which was not tolerated by the world, and that she probably really could not marry Zhu Chuanzong for the rest of her life. She could only pretend to cultivate Taoism, and her heart ached, her beautiful eyes reddening, as she gradually began to believe it.

The old lady was heartbroken. She beckoned Zhu Shuiyue to her side, embraced her, and kept saying, "My darling, don't cry. Your grandmother loves you and will stand up for you."

She looked up at Zhu Youji and sneered, "You've only met her a few times, and you dare to make such a promise? That matchmaker took the money and praised even pigs and dogs to the heavens. Can that really be considered a promise? You can't even see through a petty person. All those years you've been an official, have you wasted your time?" Zhu Youji didn't dare reply. Only after the old lady had finished scolding him did he apologize, saying, "Please don't be angry. It's all my fault. I'll cancel this marriage right away."

Everyone came to comfort him. Zhu Chuanzong told a few jokes, which made the old lady laugh again. Zhu Youji, having been scolded for nothing, harbored resentment towards He Zhixiao. He turned around and sent the matchmaker away, flatly refusing the marriage. Only because she was a relative of Prince An was she not kicked out—this was already a huge favor.

After dinner, Zhu Chuanzong sneaked into Zhu Shuiyue's room. Zhu Shuiyue glanced at him with a half-smile and said, "What are you doing here?" Zhu Chuanzong grinned and said, "I've come to calm my good sister down!" Zhu Shuiyue turned her head away and ignored him. Zhu Chuanzong walked behind her and gently massaged her shoulders. Zhu Shuiyue hummed softly in comfort, chuckling, "Why are you so nice today? You're even massaging my shoulders."

Zhu Chuanzong chuckled as he massaged, "Now that I've found you again, I naturally want to cherish you. When I first came back, I heard Father was going to marry you off to He Zhixiao, and I almost lost my mind! Luckily, the Old Madam is very clever and loves us dearly, otherwise it would have been very difficult."

Zhu Shuiyue rolled her eyes at him, "You have so many women who love you, you don't need me. I'm getting older, it's time for me to get married, and there will be many more such things in the future."

Zhu Chuanzong rested his chin on her cheek, inhaling her fragrance, and murmured, "Good sister, with your beauty, you'd rather not be a first-rank lady in a wealthy family than follow me without regard for status. I'm sorry. It's all my fault." "It's my fault, who told me to be born with such a dashing appearance! Blame it on my face."

Zhu Shuiyue knew he was joking, so she teased him for being shameless. After playing around for a while, Zhu Shuiyue became serious again, wrapped her arms around Zhu Chuanzong's waist, and said softly, "I'm willing to follow you, you don't need to blame yourself. I don't care about being a rich man's wife, I just want to be with you. Those officials all have many wives and concubines, and after a few days they get tired of them, unlike you who have always treated me well and kept me in your heart."

Zhu Chuanzong was moved and gently kissed her earlobe, saying, "I haven't been very good to you either. I haven't spent much time with you."

Zhu Shuiyue said, "That's because you have things to do! And you have to avoid suspicion. I understand."

The two were filled with affection, their hearts warm. Gradually, they fell silent, quietly tenderly embracing each other.

After a while, Zhu Shuiyue laughed, "You were massaging my shoulders, weren't you? Why are you putting your hands inside my clothes?" Zhu Chuanzong's large mouth was already pressed against her cherry-like lips, and he mumbled, "I've finished massaging the outside, now it's time to massage the inside."

Zhu Shuiyue was also aroused, giving him flirtatious glances, panting softly, her body as soft as cotton. Zhu Chuanzong lifted her up by the waist and placed her on the fragrant couch, then pressed himself against her. The two were extremely intimate, their lovemaking intoxicating, needless to say.

Two days later, Zhu Chuanzong was working in the Censorate when a yamen runner reported that someone had come to visit, it was He Zhixiao who had come. As soon as he entered, he beamed and bowed, saying, "Brother Zhu, my uncle asked someone to propose marriage the other day, but why did he drive the matchmaker away? If there was anything wrong or impolite, please enlighten me!" Zhu Chuanzong saw that although he was all smiles, he couldn't hide his worry. Although he felt sorry for him, he couldn't let this go unpunished. He thought to himself, "If your proposal fails, then it's my doing!" On the surface, he sighed and said, "I told you long ago that my sister is going to become a nun. She won't marry anyone, let alone you. Just give up. You can't force things! With your character and family background, why would you worry about not finding a good girl?" He Zhixiao stood there, somewhat dejected, muttering to himself, "Why does she still want to become a nun? Isn't getting married much better than being a Taoist priest? I... I don't believe it. I'm going home to find my uncle!" Zhu Chuanzong secretly scorned him, thinking, "She's just a good-for-nothing who only knows how to rely on her ancestors' legacy. Without her uncle, who's a prince, she's nothing. Marrying you is really worse than becoming a Taoist priest." He patted him on the shoulder with feigned sympathy and walked away.

He put aside this worry, sometimes spending days with Xue Jinxian, sometimes secretly meeting with Zhu Shuiyue and Hua Caiyun, and occasionally joking and teasing with the pretty maids like Nuanyun. The yamen was rather dull as there were few cases. The officials tried their best to prevent him from taking on big cases, fearing he would display his power again, so Zhu Chuanzong's ambition gradually faded. He spent his days indulging in pleasure, truly enjoying life better than a god. Zhu Chuanzong knew that being a god was not enjoyable, so he naturally felt that his current life was better than that of a god.

But things are unpredictable, and unexpectedly, another setback occurred.

One day, as soon as he arrived at the yamen, he noticed that his colleagues were looking at him strangely, with a hint of envy in their eyes. Confused, he stopped a familiar face to inquire. The man, slightly surprised, exclaimed, "How come you don't know about this great joy in your family? The Emperor himself has decreed a marriage between Prince An's nephew and your sister! This is an honor most people can only dream of! Your Zhu family was already prominent, and now you're related to the Prince by marriage. Your future career will be bright. Don't forget us when you're successful!"

He continued his envious chatter, but Zhu Chuanzong seemed struck dumb. He ignored him and walked out, his face pale.

The man thought Zhu Chuanzong was delirious with joy and didn't laugh at all, thinking that if this happened to him, it would be even worse. He lamented that he didn't have a sister who had been betrothed by the Emperor.

Zhu Chuanzong had been staying with Xue Jinxian for the past two days and hadn't returned home, unaware of this. He now only hoped it wasn't true.

His heart sank the moment he entered. Zhu Shuiyue was sitting in his room, weeping, with several maids beside her, their eyes red. Seeing Zhu Chuanzong enter, Xiao Yu stood up angrily and said, "You still know how to come back? Miss is heartbroken! Where have you been having fun?" Then she whispered in his ear, "Miss is so pitiful. Spend more time with her and say some kind words! We received the news yesterday, but Miss wouldn't let us tell you."

Zhu Chuanzong knew that imperial orders were hard to disobey. Other matters might be easier to handle, but the current situation was indeed quite troublesome. After thinking for a while, he didn't know what to say. Looking at Zhu Shuiyue's pretty face, pale and haggard like a pear blossom in the rain, his heart ached. He asked softly, "The Emperor really bestowed the marriage? Is it true? Or is it just a dream?" Zhu Shuiyue nodded and said softly, "My life is so miserable. Try to be more open-minded and forget about me!" Zhu Chuanzong felt dizzy, his heart filled with indescribable bitterness. Having experienced much hardship, he had long since cultivated composure, but faced with the situation before him, he lost his temper and became enraged. He jumped up and shouted, "Didn't Grandma promise to make the decision? Didn't Father already refuse the marriage? I'm going to ask them why they changed their minds!" Zhu Chuanzong stormed out the door, and several maids couldn't stop him. Zhu Shuiyue watched his retreating figure, remembering his secret that he was a celestial being descended to earth. Perhaps he really did have a way, and a glimmer of hope arose in her heart.

Zhu Chuanzong ran to the gate of the courtyard where the old lady lived, just in time to see Zhu Youji coming out with a gloomy face and head down. Slightly surprised, Zhu Youji asked Zhu Chuanzong, "Why are you in such a hurry? What happened?" He then realized what was going on and said with a grim face, "Shuiyue's marriage is a done deal. Your grandmother is heartbroken. If this is about her, you mustn't bother her anymore."

Zhu Chuanzong exclaimed, "He Zhixiao is a scoundrel! Why did my sister marry him?" Zhu Youji said expressionlessly, "This is a marriage decree from the Emperor. His word is law. As his subjects, we must..." "Just obey, there's no reasoning with that!" Zhu Chuanzong, enraged, blurted out, "My sister's marriage is her own decision, what does it have to do with the Emperor!" Zhu Youji, both shocked and furious, looked around to make sure no one was watching, and hissed, "You wretched child! Do you want to implicate your whole family? Without the Emperor's grace, where would you get your high position, your wealth and honor? The Emperor can give you life or death at will. How dare you utter such treasonous words?" Zhu Chuanzong, blushing, retorted, "I've investigated wrongful cases and punished corrupt officials for him everywhere. I haven't taken his money for nothing!" Zhu Youji sneered, "Foolish boy, it seems I won't wake you up from your dream if I don't give you a little pointers! Let me tell you clearly today, the Zhu family's wealth and status were given by the Emperor, but your wealth and status were given by the Zhu family. Otherwise, with your young age and no qualifications, how could you be an imperial envoy to investigate a high-ranking official of a province? If you weren't surnamed Zhu, and if you didn't have our family's power backing you up, you would have lost your official position and title long ago, and might even have lost your life!" He paused to catch his breath, and continued, "Even those cases you investigated, do you think they were all..." "Your abilities? Every single one of them has been approved by the Emperor! If the Emperor wants to dismiss them, he uses you as a tool, a weapon. The officials respect and fear you because they fear the Emperor behind you! When the Emperor favors you, you are an imperial envoy, holding a high position and great power. When the Emperor is displeased, you are just a commoner, a criminal. Remember this: the Emperor is the heaven of his subjects; how can a mortal defy Heaven!" Zhu Chuanzong suddenly awoke with a start. He knew his father was right, and there was no room for rebuttal. His mouth hung open, his face pale, unable to utter a single word.

Zhu Youji, though scolding him, felt a pang of heartache seeing his distress. His expression softened, and he said gently, "Bao'er, you've always been a bit slow-witted. I haven't taught you much about the principles of being an official, and as you grew older, I wanted you to gain experience on your own, so I didn't teach you much either. It's not entirely your fault. I know you're kind-hearted and care about your sister. But Prince An is wealthy and powerful, and his nephew isn't disgracing your sister. Besides, with me here, would they dare to wrong her? Stop being unreasonable. Spend more time with your sister and try to persuade her with these words."

With that, he turned and left.

Zhu Chuanzong stood there for a long time, muttering, "I used to laugh at He Zhixiao for being a spoiled brat who only relied on his ancestors. I considered myself a god descended to earth, but now I'm not even as good as him! " Thinking of the Emperor's decree, which couldn't be changed, his heart ached as if it were being cut by a knife.

Since he woke up that day, everything had gone smoothly for him; he had never felt so disheartened as he did today. Somewhat dazed, Zhu Chuanzong returned to his room. The maids, knowing the matter was of great importance and beyond their authority, had already quietly retreated.

Zhu Shuiyue was still waiting for his news, and seeing his frighteningly pale face, she knew things had failed. But she couldn't dwell on her own sorrow now, and first comforted Zhu Chuanzong, saying, "Bao'er, we can figure out a way to deal with my problem slowly. Don't worry yourself sick!" Zhu Chuanzong, consumed by self-pity and in a state of confusion, could only see her lips moving, but couldn't hear what she was saying. Suddenly, he blurted out, "Sister, you're a beauty like a celestial being. You're so wonderful, just consider me an ignorant good-for-nothing, unworthy of you! You should be a noble lady from now on!" Zhu Shuiyue's face turned ashen. "What did you say? What do you take me for?" Zhu Chuanzong had a thousand words in his heart, but didn't know what to say, so he could only stare blankly in silence. Zhu Shuiyue smiled bitterly and said, "Fine, since that's how you think, I'll leave."

She turned and staggered out.

Zhu Chuanzong thought to himself, "That brat He Zhixiao is putting so much effort into pursuing my sister; he'll definitely treat her well in the future. If he doesn't treat her well, I'll kill him. I have plenty of women around me; I can't always be with my sister anyway. It might be better for her to pursue other happiness. Besides, I only comforted her a little, and she left without a second thought. Oh well, it's better that she's gone." Zhu Chuanzong was usually bold and resourceful, but now, faced with such a difficult problem, he was at a loss, wallowing in self-pity and losing all motivation.

Meanwhile, Zhu Shuiyue left the room with tears streaming down her face, thinking, "Bao'er thinks I'm a vain woman. Is he angry that I didn't go with him to plead with the Grand Tutor? But I'm just the Zhu family's adopted daughter. The Zhu family has been kind to me; how can I be ungrateful? He doesn't want me now, but I want him to know that I only have him in my heart." She gritted her teeth and made a decision.

Zhu Chuanzong sat alone in the room, and the maids dared not disturb him. His thoughts raced, disorganized and chaotic. Past experiences flashed through his mind like a revolving lantern.

He felt a mixture of self-reproach for his own uselessness and an overwhelming reluctance to part with Zhu Shuiyue. Remembering his father's words, the past seemed like a distant memory. He used to only appreciate the benefits of power, feeling gratitude and reverence for the emperor. Now, however, his feelings had changed. He now felt the emperor's power was supreme, but not as self-evident as he had once taken for granted.

He sat there for about two or three hours when suddenly someone pushed the door open forcefully. He saw his sister-in-law, her pretty face frosty and furious. As soon as she entered, she shouted, "Zhu Chuanzong, what have you done!" Zhu Chuanzong heard her call him by his full name, no longer even calling him "Bao'er." He thought, "Does my sister-in-law look down on me too? Is she leaving me too?" Seeing his half-dead state, Hua Caiyun became even angrier, grabbing his collar and whispering angrily, "Shuiyue just hanged herself!" Zhu Chuanzong was stunned for a moment, then suddenly snapped out of it, exclaiming in shock, "What?!"

Chapter Nine Seeing that he wasn't as decisive as usual today, Hua

Caiyun had originally intended to scare him, but seeing his dazed expression, she was afraid of overstimulating him. She quickly said, "Don't worry, luckily I bumped into her and saved her immediately. The maid said Shuiyue has been crying nonstop since she left your place. What did you do to make her so sad? You're so bold and resourceful when handling cases outside, how come you're so stupid when it comes to yourself?" Zhu Chuanzong was stunned, then said regretfully, "I wronged her! I'm going to find her and apologize! No matter what, even if I die, I'll die with her. Besides, if I go to the Emperor, maybe I can change things! I'm so stupid. Since the Emperor has given the order, I can naturally ask him to retract it. Although the Emperor's word is law, and it's difficult to reverse a decision, it's not impossible."

He panicked upon hearing the Emperor's order, but upon reflection, he realized the Emperor was also human; couldn't he retract his order?

Hua Caiyun stopped him, saying, "Don't go yet, wait until she calms down. Luckily, it was discovered in time, and she's not seriously injured. I've instructed Ying'er to suppress the news; no one in the manor knows. Since you want to ask the Emperor, you must have a way. Tell me!" Zhu Chuanzong sensed something in her words and, remembering his sister-in-law's intelligence, thought she might have a solution. He exclaimed happily, "Sister-in-law has a solution? Haha, I told you things couldn't have reached this point! I'm so ridiculous. I have such a capable sister-in-law at home, yet I didn't know to ask her. Sister-in-law, please tell me quickly! Don't keep me anxious."

Hua Caiyun smiled and said, "Seeing you so..." "Don't worry, I won't make things difficult for you. You don't need to flatter me; I'll naturally help with Shuiyue's matter. But what I don't understand is, how come you, who are usually so clever, are so indecisive when it comes to serious matters? Yesterday, His Majesty issued an edict, so I sent someone to the palace to inquire. It turns out that Consort Mei asked His Majesty to grant her a marriage."

Zhu Chuanzong, hearing his sister-in-law's scolding, said, "I was just worried and confused. If my sister-in-law were in trouble, I would be just as flustered."

Then he said resentfully, "What is Consort Mei? Why is she so nosy?" Hua Caiyun casually replied, "Consort Mei is no good."

After saying that, they both paused for a moment, then burst into laughter.

Hua Caiyun continued, "She is the Emperor's most favored concubine, named Zhang Duanyi, the daughter of the former Hanlin Academician Zhang Qixian. I heard she is exceptionally intelligent, proficient in all the arts, and... the Emperor listens to her implicitly, never hesitating to obey her. She is related to Prince An, calling him her uncle."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "No wonder she wanted to help; they're relatives. But what did you mean by 'and'? Why did you only say half of it?"

Hua Caiyun blushed and whispered, "I heard she's naturally alluring; men become infatuated with her, and the Emperor is so fond of her that he bestowed upon her the name 'Charming Concubine.'"

Zhu Chuanzong was stunned, then laughed, "So she's skilled in bed, but I think she's no match for my sister-in-law."

Hua Caiyun blushed even more and scolded, "You were all frowning just now, and now you've reverted to your lecherous self?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "I thought things had reached a dead end, but now that I think about it, as long as things haven't come to that point, there's still hope. I was really ridiculous just now. I scared my sister so much she almost had an accident. If something had really happened to her, I would have followed her to the underworld!" Hua Caiyun laughed, "Alright! Let's not talk about depressing things! Let's get serious. Consort Mei is quite close to Prince An, and although she's related to He Zhixiao, they're not very close. She's only doing this because of Prince An. As long as someone can persuade her, she can easily get this matter over with a few words."

Zhu Chuanzong regained his composure and laughed, "Then let's go and beg her, give her lots of gold and silver jewelry! She'll definitely like it, and then let her resolve this matter. The one who tied the knot must untie it, perfect."

Hua Caiyun chuckled, "Silly brother, there are countless treasures in the palace. She's favored by the Emperor, and the Emperor is eager to..." "If we pamper her, she'll have everything she wants. Why would she care about ours?" Zhu Chuanzong said, "That's not necessarily true. Look at those corrupt officials, aren't they all incredibly wealthy? Yet they still continue to embezzle. Who's afraid of money biting their hand?" Hua Caiyun said, "She's not that kind of person. She has very high standards. We need to think of another way. Fortunately, my father and her father are old acquaintances, and we had some friendship when we were young. So I went to visit her today. After talking for a while, I actually came up with a plan."

Zhu Chuanzong asked excitedly, "What plan?" Hua Caiyun said, "I won't tell you, so you'll worry. Besides, what benefit will I get if this works out?" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "If you help me with this, I'll give you whatever you want. As long as it's within my power, I'll definitely agree."

Hua Caiyun He said, "I don't need anything else, just promise me one thing."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "I always listen to you, so how could I refuse to do what you ask? Sister-in-law, tell me about Consort Mei!" Hua Caiyun suddenly blushed and said shyly, "It's been over a year since I last saw her! Yesterday, as soon as we met, she asked me how much prettier I was than before, and I blurted out that it was all thanks to you."

Zhu Chuanzong was stunned and said, "How could it be my doing?" He then chuckled and said, "I understand! It really is all thanks to my efforts."

He then pointed to his lower body and said, "My little brother has done a great service. Although it was a bit tiring, since he has made such a great contribution, he should be rewarded!" It turned out that Hua Caiyun had been nourished by his affections these past few days, and her beauty was stunning, even more charming than before. Zhu Chuanzong thought she was referring to this.

Hua Caiyun blushed and spat, "Who said that! Don't get the wrong idea."

Zhu Chuanzong chuckled, "You clearly think so too, otherwise why are you blushing?" He stared intently at Hua Caiyun's alluring demeanor, his lips glistening with moisture.

Hua Caiyun rolled her eyes at him without replying, and continued, "I said you have a skill that can make people slender and their faces more and more beautiful. You used to be fat and ugly, but now you've slimmed down and become handsome. Everyone in the capital knows this, even Consort Mei knows. She believed me immediately after hearing my words and is very envious. I think she would be happy if I let you enter the palace to teach her some wonderful methods. Moreover, your reputation is now widespread, you're known as a paragon of justice, a genius at solving cases, and so on. I think she seems very interested in you, so she thinks that if you can get close to the Imperial Consort, you might gain her trust. If she helps, things will be much easier."

Zhu Chuanzong thought to himself, 'I am a deity descended to earth; I have my own methods of transformation.' "Do you expect me to teach a mortal how to cultivate immortality? That's impossible! Besides, I myself only have a vague understanding of it; how could I possibly teach someone?" But then Hua Caiyun continued, "Since ancient times, the struggle for favor in the palace has been the most brutal. Consort Mei is currently in the prime of her life, and the Emperor loves her immensely. Therefore, she fears even more that her beauty will fade and his affections will wane. If you can help her maintain her appearance, that would be the most precious gift in the world, far better than sending a cartload of gold and silver jewels! That's all I can tell you. In the future, you can go to the palace and find a way to win her favor, or teach her your ability to become thin—it's all up to you. That's all the schemes I can devise for you."

Zhu Chuanzong thought to himself, "Losing weight is just a matter of eating less and exercising more. She has all the delicacies in her palace and nothing to do, so this is going to be difficult. She's a woman, and there are many ways to please her. But she's an imperial concubine, so we can't be reckless. It's truly doubly difficult." He sighed, "Sister-in-law, I've lost weight, and I don't even know why. I don't understand anything about it. How can you expect me to teach her?" Hua Caiyun said, "Actually, these are just excuses to get you into the palace. Our family has some connections with the ladies in the palace, and the Dowager Empress was once the Emperor's wet nurse, so we used to be very powerful in the palace. Unfortunately, this Consort Mei has gained the Emperor's favor in recent years and has become very powerful. Now she's personally acting as matchmaker, and we can't afford to offend her. Therefore, to get through to her, we must start with her. I don't care what method you use, you must make her happy."

Zhu Chuanzong listened intently, lost in thought. Seeing him deep in thought, Hua Caiyun said softly, "Whatever you think of is fine, but I know you're a womanizer. Don't even think about the Imperial Concubine! One wrong move and your entire family will be wiped out! Ah, that's what I'm worried about too. Consort Mei is unparalleled in beauty; even a woman like me is tempted. Don't lose your mind when you see her. You must remember this! Xue Jinxian is such a beautiful woman, isn't she enough for you? Think about her more, and you won't be blinded by lust."

Zhu Chuanzong hugged her tightly and laughed, "Sister-in-law, you are the most beautiful woman in the world! Who can compare to you? My soul is already with you! I'll think about you every day!" He kissed her

passionately. He realized things had taken a turn for the better, and his mood improved.

After a while of intimacy, Zhu Chuanzong still couldn't let go of Zhu Shuiyue, so he went to visit her in her boudoir. A maid was waiting in the outer room. Just as she was about to greet him, Zhu Chuanzong gestured for her to be quiet and quietly went inside.

Zhu Shuiyue was fast asleep on the bed, her face pale and tear tracks still visible in the corners of her eyes. Zhu Chuanzong stared at her for a long time, heartbroken, and wiped her eyes. Zhu Shuiyue noticed someone was there, opened her eyes, and saw Zhu Chuanzong. She froze for a moment, then hugged him tightly, crying, "I'd rather die than leave you! Why don't you understand my heart?"

Zhu Chuanzong was also saddened and said, "Alright! It's all my fault, I almost ruined your life. Don't worry, sister, we'll never be apart again. I already have a way to get the Emperor to cancel the decree. If it doesn't work, don't be afraid. At worst, we'll elope, and I'll give up my official post. As long as you're not afraid of hardship, we'll be a simple country couple."

Zhu Shuiyue stopped crying. A smile swept away all her worries, and she said, "As long as I'm with you, I'm not afraid of anything."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "With your words, what do we have to worry about? We can deal with the future later. The days we spend together are precious moments. Let's live happily and not think about those troubling things anymore."

Zhu Shuiyue nodded, the gloom in her heart lifted, and her mood improved. Seeing that her lover was of one mind with her and valued her highly, she was deeply moved. She leaned forward, opened her small mouth, and pressed it against Zhu Chuanzong's lips, teasing him with her fragrant tongue. Zhu Chuanzong's mouth was full of saliva, and as their tongues mingled, he could smell the sweet saliva, and his passion intensified, his heart burning like fire, almost unbearable. Zhu Chuanzong's

manhood stood erect, as hard as steel, pushing against his trousers.

Seeing Zhu Chuanzong like this, Zhu Shuiyue laughed at him, saying he couldn't resist teasing her and was quite lustful.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Since you know I'm in so much pain, why don't you help me relieve this burning sensation? Be careful you don't burn me to death."

Zhu Shuiyue laughed, "With me here, you won't burn to death."

With a gentle movement of her jade hand, she removed Zhu Chuanzong's underpants, revealing his erect and powerful jade stem, thick and magnificent, over seven inches long. Her heart was filled with joy. She grasped his treasure and began to stroke it, rubbing it vigorously. Zhu Chuanzong felt his jade stem burning and throbbing, as if surrounded by a soft fire.

Zhu Shuiyue saw that the tips of his jade stem were gradually rounding, like a full, ripe peach. She raised an eyebrow and laughed, "Do you think I don't know what you've been up to with those maids? Today, seeing that you're genuinely good to me, I'll reward you."

After saying this, she opened her pink lips and took his jade stem into her mouth. Zhu Chuanzong's jade stem was quite large, filling Zhu Shuiyue's small mouth. Zhu Shuiyue hurriedly sucked on it, and her saliva flew out like flowers and rain.

Zhu Chuanzong was both surprised and delighted, repeatedly calling out, "Good sister!" Zhu Chuanzong's jade stem, sucked by Zhu Shuiyue, gushed forth love juices, his entire body tense, like a cowhide drum, unbearably pent-up.

After a while of sucking, Zhu Shuiyue stood up and removed her clothes. Her jade peaks were high and firm, her pubic hair thick and lush, her peach blossom cave opening and closing like a baby's mouth, incredibly alluring. Steam rose

from the air, a magnificent sight. Zhu Chuanzong, having feasted his eyes on the spring scenery, felt a burning desire within him. He stood up as well, pulling Zhu Shuiyue into his arms. His lips, like hungry thirst, pressed against Zhu Shuiyue's large, white breasts, kissing them. One hand twisted and kneaded the other breast, then his fingers pinched the nipple, pulling hard. The nipple gradually swelled under the stimulation.

Zhu Shuiyue felt incredibly comfortable, her lust intensified, her legs kicking wildly, her waist swaying wildly. Her jade orifice was throbbing with pain, as if she desperately wanted a hard object to be inserted. It felt like a fire burning within, and she moaned incessantly, "Ah ah!"

Hearing her moans, Zhu Chuanzong was even more aroused. He bent down between Zhu Shuiyue's legs, parted her pubic hair, and pressed his thick lips to her jade orifice, his tongue stroking the entrance. This caused Zhu Shuiyue to tremble all over, her jade orifice contracting tightly, and her juices flowing like a spring tide, wetting her pubic hair and running down her

thighs to the ground. Seeing Zhu Shuiyue's moans becoming increasingly ecstatic, Zhu Chuanzong couldn't restrain himself. He stood up, carried Zhu Shuiyue to the embroidered bed, threw her onto it, spread her legs with one hand, and thrust his jade stem into her jade orifice with a "whoosh," diligently working. With this insertion, Zhu Shuiyue's jade orifice was completely filled, and with each thrust, it shook violently. Filled with such a large object, Zhu Shuiyue was overjoyed. She swayed her body gently, actively lifting her hips to meet Zhu Chuanzong's thrusts. Each insertion reached her very core, making her heart tremble with ecstasy, causing her to moan incessantly.

Zhu Chuanzong thrust hundreds of times, already drenched in sweat, but Zhu Shuiyue cried out, "Good brother, faster, faster, deeper, deeper!" Her lewd words kept Zhu Chuanzong entertained, and he thrust vigorously for another hundred or so times. Then, a warmth filled his abdomen, and his semen shot out like arrows, striking the very core of Zhu Shuiyue's flower. Afterward, Zhu Chuanzong lay on Zhu Shuiyue's jade-like body to rest.

Zhu Shuiyue was also extremely happy. The huge jade stem bounced in her jade orifice, making her feel like she was dying of pleasure. The yang essence was burning hot, making her intoxicated with her soul. She felt as if she were flying in the air, as if she were drinking orchid wine, and as if she were being bathed in orchid soup.

The next day, Zhu Chuanzong went to Hua Caiyun and asked her to arrange for him to enter the palace to see Consort Mei. At the same time, he carefully prepared gifts. Hua Caiyun laughed, "Silly brother, don't be so impatient, okay? The palace isn't so easy to enter. Besides, you're going to the inner palace. Be patient and wait a few days until I've made arrangements. Things won't be rushed. Even if the Emperor bestows a marriage upon your sister, it will take several months to prepare. There's still time."

Zhu Chuanzong was worried about his sister and was feeling down. Seeing that Hua Caiyun had things to do, he went out. Ying'er saw him off and smiled, "Young master, don't worry, things will take a turn for the better."

Zhu Chuanzong saw her smiling and her eyes sparkling, and a thought struck him. He said, "I'm very unhappy. If you want to cheer me up, you'll have to serve me well."

Ying'er blushed and said, "I'm willing to do anything to relieve your worries, young master."

Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed and said, "Then why don't you take me to your room?" The two quietly went to Ying'er's room. On the way, they encountered some maids, who discreetly kept their distance.

Upon entering the room, Ying'er had Zhu Chuanzong sit on the bed. She knelt before him, undressed him, and his manhood, already erect, was revealed. She held it in her hand, rubbing it back and forth, and smiled obsequiously at Zhu Chuanzong.

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing the incredibly beautiful face before him, kneeling and fawning over him, felt a surge of pride. Moreover, her red lips were luscious and alluring. Zhu Chuanzong, aroused, reached out and pulled her head, pressing it against his manhood.

Ying'er giggled, then opened her pink lips and took the jade stem into her mouth, sucking and playing with it, making Zhu Chuanzong feel as if ants were crawling all over his body, yet he felt an indescribable pleasure.

Ying'er's sucking and licking brought him immense pleasure, and after a while, the jade stem was oozing with sticky fluid. Ying'er didn't mind, but swallowed all the fluid, as if drinking nectar, sucking and licking incessantly.

Zhu Chuanzong felt completely relaxed, gradually groaning, his jade stem growing even larger, reaching the sky, as if it could punch a hole in the heavens.

Ying'er played with it for a long time, her heart burning like fire, her jade pot already filthy. Then she turned her face, closed her eyes, and whispered, "Please, Master, do this servant!" She turned around, took off her clothes, knelt on the ground, revealing her smooth, round buttocks to Zhu Chuanzong.

Seeing her white, delicate, and alluring buttocks, how could Zhu Chuanzong possibly resist? He growled, "Shouldn't you let your master mount the horse?" Ying'er said seductively, "Please, master, let me ride you!" Zhu Chuanzong pounced on her, his huge jade stem plunging into Ying'er's warm jade pot, shouting, "You disobedient horse, I'll fuck you to death!"

Ying'er was suddenly filled by the huge thing, experiencing unparalleled pleasure, letting out a muffled groan, and then was driven to ecstasy by Zhu Chuanzong's vigorous thrusting.

Zhu Chuanzong thrust hundreds of times in one breath, until Ying'er's legs kicked, her eyes rolled back, her mouth panting, and she moaned "Ah ah," enjoying herself immensely. Each thrust went all the way in, and each withdrawal left not a trace in her jade hole, which excited Ying'er even more. This was the first time she had experienced something like this, and her interest grew even more, she cried out, "Good brother, thrust faster, faster, harder, harder, deeper, darling!"

Her moans continued, her lewd words shocking the heavens.

After working hard for a while, Zhu Chuanzong was drenched in sweat, but he was in high spirits and didn't know when to stop. He thrust and pulled hard, pumping more than five hundred times in one go. After a few more thrusts, Zhu Chuanzong sprayed a stream of hot, white semen onto Ying'er's flower bud, causing Ying'er to faint before he stopped.

The two slept for a while before waking up. Zhu Chuanzong said, "You enjoyed riding the horse today, and your master was well taken care of. If you have any requests, tell me, as a reward."

Ying'er said with a smile, "I have no shortage of food and clothing, and nothing to worry about. However, my younger brother has been given a task by the young master, and he's doing quite well. He's already engaged, and the wedding will be in a couple of days."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "That's good. Then I'll give him a big red envelope."

Ying'er laughed, "Money is a small matter. If you send someone to deliver a congratulatory message on my brother's wedding day, my family will have face! You're a noble person and may forget things, so I won't trouble you too much. Just write me a piece of calligraphy later! I'll just say it's from you on the day!" Zhu Chuanzong knew these customs. In ordinary families, if an official or other person of high status attended a wedding or other important event, it would elevate the family's status. For a small family like Ying'er's, even a congratulatory message from him was extremely difficult to obtain. She said, "I'm a little tired from all that work. I'll definitely write one for you when I have time. I keep my word; just wait."

Ying'er didn't dare force him and could only agree.

However, two days later, Zhu Chuanzong seemed to have forgotten about her request. Ying'er secretly reminded him when she had a chance, but Zhu Chuanzong waved his hand impatiently and said, "I'm very busy right now. I have a lot of things to do at the yamen, and my sister's affairs are already quite troublesome. Don't bother me."

Ying'er was heartbroken. She had told her brother about it after Zhu Chuanzong agreed, and a congratulatory message from him was to be read at the wedding—a very important ceremony. How could she explain this now?

The day of her brother's wedding arrived quickly. Ying'er took leave and returned home. Having no other choice, she told her family about it. Her brother, being quite understanding, comforted her, saying things like it was alright.

Ying'er felt a pang of sadness seeing that her younger brother, though outwardly respectful, couldn't hide his disappointment. Coupled with Zhu Chuanzong's apparent indifference towards her, her sorrow was indescribable. Because it was her brother's wedding, she couldn't hide away and cry, so she had to force a smile, which was incredibly painful.

When the wedding time arrived, guests arrived one after another. Suddenly, a luxurious carriage appeared. Before anyone could react, a young master alighted from the carriage—it was Zhu Chuanzong, the eldest son of the Zhu family and the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice. Everyone rushed forward to pay their respects, showering him with flattery.

Upon hearing that Zhu Chuanzong had come, Ying'er's eyes immediately welled up with tears. The crowd escorted Zhu Chuanzong into the house. After presenting his gifts and offering a few words of blessing, he said he had other matters to attend to and turned to leave.

Seeing the groom's immense prestige—that a young master had come to congratulate him on his wedding—everyone gossiped and praised him. From that moment on, Ying'er's family was inundated with people eager to curry favor with them.

Chapter Ten: A Peerless Beauty

A few days later, Hua Caiyun finished her plans and arranged for Zhu Chuanzong to go to the palace.

Hua Caiyun had already taken care of the people in the palace. Zhu Chuanzong followed the eunuch sent by Consort Mei to greet him, and no one stopped him along the way. Moreover, the palace maids and eunuchs all greeted him with smiles. It turned out that the Dowager Empress was the current emperor's wet nurse and a regular guest in the palace. Hua Caiyun also frequently visited the palace, so when Zhu Chuanzong was a confused and disoriented child, the Dowager Empress and Hua Caiyun had both taken him to the palace. The palace maids and eunuchs, hearing that the chubby little boy had become so successful, were very curious. Seeing him return to the palace, those who had time made a special trip to see him.

The palace was filled with double eaves and roofs, vermilion walls and purple tiles, exuding wealth and grandeur. Each palace was magnificent with its carved beams and painted rafters. Zhu Chuanzong followed closely behind the young eunuch. Although his own home was also magnificent, the grandeur of the palace still dazzled him, and he couldn't even remember the way. He

didn't know how many turns he made or how many gates he passed through, but finally arrived at an exquisite courtyard. The young eunuch bowed and withdrew, and a palace maid led Zhu Chuanzong inside.

Upon reaching the inner hall, he saw it was lavishly decorated, with a sandalwood incense burner burning, its smoke curling upwards. There was also a beautifully embroidered screen depicting ladies, behind which, indistinctly, one could see a woman dressing before a mirror.

The palace maid knelt and announced, "Your Majesty, Lord Zhu has arrived."

A voice replied, "I know, you may leave."

The voice was soft, charming, and extremely pleasant to hear. Zhu Chuanzong was surrounded by countless beauties, all stunningly beautiful, but upon hearing that woman's voice, so captivating, he suddenly couldn't resist stealing a glance.

Zhu Chuanzong cursed himself inwardly for his uselessness, barely managing to suppress his thoughts. Just then, the woman emerged from behind the screen. Her face was exquisitely beautiful, with delicate, willow-leaf eyebrows that seemed to drip with water as she looked around. Her cheeks were rosy, like lotus blossoms. Her figure was graceful and alluring, her gait seductive, her eyes captivating and mesmerizing—an indescribable charm.

Without a second thought, Zhu Chuanzong knew that the woman before him must be the Emperor's beloved concubine, showered with his favor. He had intended to pay his respects, but upon seeing her, he was utterly captivated. His heart melted, his mouth went dry, and he felt completely disoriented.

Consort Mei seemed to have seen many such distraught people, and remained unperturbed. She smiled sweetly, "Bao'er, oh, you should be called Lord Zhu now. It's been years! You've really grown so much that I hardly recognize you! Back when your grandmother brought you into the palace, I was just a lowly concubine! A few years have passed in the blink of an eye; youth truly flies!" Although she was sighing, she spoke with a smile, filling one with joy. Her smile was captivating, and Zhu Chuanzong's heart skipped a beat. He didn't know what she had just said, but he regained his composure and quickly bowed.

Consort Mei waved her hand, telling him not to be so formal, and had a maid offer him a seat and serve him tea.

Zhu Chuanzong dared not look at her face any longer, knowing that she was truly captivating, irresistible to most. The phrase "a natural beauty" was indeed apt. Even surrounded by beauties, he was utterly mesmerized by her. No wonder the Emperor, accustomed to seeing countless beauties, doted on her so much. He bowed his head and said, "Your Majesty, I am here on my mother's orders to present some gifts to Your Highness. Please accept them. They are just some ordinary stones. I heard Your Highness likes them, and my hometown happens to be rich in such things, so I had someone bring some. They are not worth much, please do not be so polite."

Consort Mei ordered them to be accepted, smiling, "Things sent by your family must be of high quality. These oddly shaped stones, if they were ordinary..." In ordinary people's homes, these stones are truly worthless. But I find myself drawn to these strangely shaped stones.”

Zhu Chuanzong said, “Your Majesty possesses refined taste and far-sighted vision; how can we mere mortals compare?” Consort Mei smiled and said, “You are so eloquent. But why are you being so polite? It is my honor that you have come to see me. There was no need to bring any gifts. I heard that you are incorruptible in your duties at court, showing no respect even to the Prime Minister. I am very curious; a hero like you must be met. Besides, I met you when you were young, and now I am eager to see what you have become.”

Zhu Chuanzong said, “To be honest, I…” " So you were just a child, you don't remember anything. It turns out you were lucky enough to meet Your Majesty when you were little, but alas, you have no memory of it! What a pity."

Consort Mei said, "What's there to pity? I wasn't pretty back then either, and now I'm old and faded, there's even less to look at. When the old lady brought you to the palace to meet the Emperor, you were still physically unsteady and somewhat confused. Now you're a handsome young man, your name known throughout the capital. Life is truly unpredictable!" Zhu Chuanzong said, "If Your Majesty isn't pretty, then there are no beautiful women in the world."

Consort Mei said, "Since that's the case, why don't you dare look up at me? It must be because I'm too ugly."

Zhu Chuanzong had no choice but to raise his head and smiled, "I already..." "I've seen Your Majesty and was stunned by your beauty. I was very rude. It's fortunate that Your Majesty is so magnanimous and doesn't blame me. I'm afraid that if I were to look at Your Majesty again and become infatuated, I might commit a grave mistake."

Consort Mei said, "You're quite an interesting person. Everyone says you're incorruptible, and I thought you were some kind of blockhead! It turns out you know a bit about romance. If you're captivated by me, it just means I'm beautiful, so why would I blame you?" Zhu Chuanzong thought to himself, "Consort Mei is the most beautiful woman in the world, and her demeanor is so alluring that most men would go crazy upon seeing her. It's strange that she cares so much about appearance." He then said, "Your Majesty's thoughts are beyond the comprehension of ordinary people. No wonder Your Majesty is of noble birth, while we are merely subjects."

Consort Mei said, "You are quite eloquent. Alright, that's enough for today! I'm a little sleepy and quite tired. If you have time, just pass in your nameplate."

Zhu Chuanzong quickly agreed and took his leave.

Zhu Chuanzong felt as if he had just woken from a dream, and left the palace in a daze. Back home, Hua Caiyun saw his appearance and laughed, "I knew you'd end up like this. With Consort Mei's beauty, no man could resist her charm. How could Heaven have created such a beauty?" Zhu Chuanzong didn't lie and sighed, "Sister-in-law is right! No wonder the Emperor favors her; she's truly a rare beauty."

Hua Caiyun laughed, "A rare beauty or not, you can't enjoy it! How did things go?" Zhu Chuanzong sighed, "No progress. I talked to her for a while and then came back."

Hua Caiyun listened carefully to their conversation and laughed, "She values you highly!" Zhu Chuanzong asked curiously, "How so?" Hua Caiyun said, "If she doesn't like someone, if she doesn't think highly of them, she won't even say a word..." "She doesn't want to pay any attention to you. So many officials in the court want to curry favor with her, but few even get to see her, let alone speak to her. Besides, she cares so much about her appearance in front of you. Women dress up for those they love, don't you understand that?" Zhu Chuanzong was somewhat pleased, but then frowned and said, "What you said makes some sense, but Consort Mei cares about her appearance because she's afraid of aging and losing the Emperor's favor."

Hua Caiyun smiled and said, "Since that's the case, you should start from that point, and she will gradually trust you. Then, when you ask her for help, things might work out."

Zhu Chuanzong nodded and said, "As long as there's even a glimmer of hope, I will persist."

At this moment, the government office sent someone to invite him, so he hurriedly went.

The next morning, Zhu Chuanzong got up early. He had been thinking about Consort Mei all night, so without consulting anyone, he went straight to the palace to submit his petition to see Consort Mei.

Zhu Chuanzong didn't have high hopes, but unexpectedly, a eunuch came and let him in. Please continue reading the synopsis of episode

6 of "The Fairy Tale" : For his and Zhu Shuiyue's happy future, Zhu Chuanzong enters the palace to see the Emperor's favorite concubine, Zhang Duanyi. Unexpectedly, sparks fly between them, developing into a complicated and tumultuous romance. However, because of his connection with the imperial concubine, his official career flourishes, wielding considerable influence in the court and solving numerous cases. With the concubine's favor and service, he is truly riding high, enjoying success from all sides! But eventually, the truth cannot be hidden forever… Purple Veil? A separation in heaven feels like an eternity; upon meeting again, he is a criminal. Faced with questioning, Zhu Chuanzong honestly confesses everything, breaking the fairy's heart, and she refuses to see him again. But his crime involves nine generations of his family… How will he overcome this predicament? Chapter 1: The Beauty's Taste The Emperor bestows a marriage upon him, which he cannot disobey. However, for his sister's sake, Zhu Chuanzong prepares to curry favor with the Emperor's beloved concubine, Zhang Duanyi. Who would have thought that after just one meeting, he would be captivated by her. He went to see her again early the next morning, but the palace eunuchs said that the Empress was unlikely to see anyone so early. Knowing it would be difficult to see her, he thought he had come for nothing. But to his surprise, Consort Mei agreed to see him without refusing. Zhu Chuanzong arrived at the palace and saw Consort Mei lying on the bed, looking languid. She gestured for him to sit down and said sleepily, "What brings you here so early?" Zhu Chuanzong saw her beautiful face, phoenix eyes, and fair, snow-white skin, her alluring charm completely captivating him. He was already utterly mesmerized and wanted to embrace her and have his way with her. He was surrounded by beauties he could easily play with, but Consort Mei was ten times more alluring than any of them. How could he possibly restrain himself? Therefore, he stared intently at Consort Mei, revealing his lustful desire, almost drooling. Consort Mei had seen some officials who lost their composure before, but they were all old men, incomparable to the handsome young Zhu Chuanzong. Moreover, he was renowned both inside and outside the court, and at such a young age, he was already a third-rank official. She couldn't help but value him highly, so she secretly smiled at his lecherous gaze, not taking it to heart, and even felt a hidden pleasure. She thought, "He's also captivated by my beauty. People say he's incorruptible and doesn't get close to women! It's just a pity he's a eunuch. He always says he married a commoner as his wife, but he dares not announce it, and she can't even enter his mansion; she lives in a separate residence. Such a handsome man, what a waste." The two gazed at each other, one with lustful eyes, the other with tender affection; one admiring, the other sighing, neither speaking again. Zhu Chuanzong was momentarily flustered, but quickly regained his composure. Startled, he knelt and bowed, saying, "Your Majesty's beauty is unparalleled, and I was momentarily captivated by you. Please punish me for my rudeness." Consort Mei smiled and said, "Forget it! It was my fault for captivating you, sir. You are always a brilliant judge; what crime have I committed?" Zhu Chuanzong slowly stood up and smiled, "Your Majesty's crime is 'possessing a treasure as a crime.'" Consort Mei asked, "And what crime have you committed, sir?" Zhu Chuanzong replied, "I have committed..." "Theft! Trying to steal a jade disc is a heinous crime!" Consort Mei was taken aback. Seeing his blatant words, she smiled seductively, "You're so bold! You dare to speak your mind like that. Aren't you afraid I'll tell the Emperor and have you beheaded? Or do you think I'm just a soft-hearted woman?" Zhu Chuanzong felt an instant connection with Consort Mei the moment he saw her. Now, seeing her delicate and charming demeanor, and hearing her seemingly affectionate words, he steeled himself and laughed, "I'm not afraid of being beheaded. I'm only afraid you'll ignore me and die of lovesickness. That would be a truly unjust death!"

Consort Mei covered her mouth and chuckled softly, her posture extremely alluring and seductive. She said, "You are indeed incredibly audacious, daring to flirt with even the Emperor's concubine. I've never understood why the Emperor favors you so much. Many people speak ill of you, yet the Emperor still defends you. It turns out you have such a sweet tongue; you must have charmed the Emperor!"

Zhu Chuanzong replied, "I have always been upright and loyal to the Emperor, which is why he values me. I am equally loyal to Your Highness, and every word I've spoken is from the heart. Your Highness is truly too beautiful; I cannot help but fall at your feet. I refuse to believe that among those who have seen you, there is anyone who hasn't harbored improper thoughts towards you. They are all merely..." " I was just desperately trying to cover it up. Only I, being honest and upright, spoke out. Your Majesty

, do you think someone like me is better, or those who harbor filthy thoughts but dare not speak out?" Consort Mei laughed, "You're right. It turns out that not only has your figure and appearance changed, but your intelligence and eloquence have also changed. You're so eloquent and persuasive; your future is limitless!" Zhu Chuanzong laughed

, "Your Majesty mentions my appearance. It's because I happened to obtain a secret recipe from a Taoist priest, which is why I am what I am today. I have a sincere heart for Your Majesty and hope to serve you by passing on the secret recipe to you, so that you can stay young forever. I wonder if you would be willing to try?"

Consort Mei was overjoyed and said, "It's rare that you have..." "You think you're so powerful in the court, destined for high office and wealth, that you wouldn't even consider a woman like me!"

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Your Majesty is a dragon among men, I'd be too busy trying to curry favor with you! But if my method doesn't work, please don't blame me."

Consort Mei smiled and said, "What method? Tell me. If it doesn't work, fine, but if it ruins my appearance, I won't allow it."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "It will have some effect, but no damage. Your Majesty is so beautiful, as long as you maintain it, that's fine. If you become even more beautiful, I'm afraid the Emperor won't attend court anymore, that would be my fault."

Consort Mei She laughed, "What you said makes me very interested. Women care most about their appearance, so I must try it. What method is it?"

Zhu Chuanzong stared at Consort Mei's round, full breasts and slender waist, hoping to reach out and touch them. He casually said, "I can massage to improve blood circulation and clear the meridians, making people slim and beautiful."

Consort Mei giggled, "I've heard of your method. Some palace maids are skilled in it. I didn't expect you to be an expert as well."

Zhu Chuanzong hurriedly said, "Then Your Highness, would you like to try this method now?"

Consort Mei remembered the rumors in the capital that Zhu Chuanzong was a eunuch. If it really had miraculous effects, letting him touch her wouldn't hurt. Moreover, this handsome young man before her, if he weren't a eunuch, if he could… Thinking of this, Consort Mei blushed and nodded, saying, "Then I'll trouble you!"

Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed and invited Consort Mei to lie face down on the fragrant couch. His large hands trembled as they reached towards the jade-like woman's fragrant shoulders, feeling as soft as if she had no bones. Even through her clothes, her skin was still smooth and alluring.

In terms of beauty, Consort Mei, Zhang Duanyi, was actually comparable to Zhu Shuiyue, Xue Jinxian, and others, but her charm and natural allure were far beyond what those women could match. As soon as Zhu Chuanzong touched Zhang Duanyi's skin, he cried out for help in his heart. It turned out that Consort Mei was like she was made of water, her whole body smooth and silky. Upon touching her, he wished he could lie on top of her and become one with her. No wonder the Emperor, even in his seventies and eighties, was still so infatuated with her.

Zhu Chuanzong suppressed his impulse, thinking, "If I could sleep with her for one night, I'd be willing to die for it! This beauty is truly rare in this world. Touching her now feels so good; if I were on top of her, I'd be ecstatic."

Zhu Chuanzong, his mind racing, massaged Meifei. As a celestial being descended to earth, some of his memories were slowly returning, and he remembered some of his cultivation techniques, naturally recognizing the meridians of the human body. He kneaded Meifei's acupoints and energy channels with both hands, causing her body to feel numb, itchy, hot, and swollen. Soon, she was panting heavily, drenched in fragrant sweat, feeling immense pleasure.

Although Zhu Chuanzong dared not overstep the bounds of propriety, only applying his touch to Meifei's neck and back, the sweet fragrance of the beauty, the soft moans, and the gentle touch were all incredibly pleasurable.

After a while, he tentatively asked, "Your Majesty, how are you feeling?"

Consort Mei gasped, "It's both painful and pleasurable, truly amazing! Your method is wonderful!"

Seeing her beautiful eyes slightly closed and her gaze hazy, Zhu Chuanzong felt reassured and whispered, "This method must be done every day. I'll come again tomorrow, okay?"

Consort Mei hummed in agreement. Seeing that she was about to fall asleep, Zhu Chuanzong secretly pretended to accidentally touch her most magnificent breasts several times. After satisfying his urge, he quietly excused himself. At this point, Consort Mei was too weak to continue and collapsed onto the bed, falling into a deep sleep.

The next day, Zhu Chuanzong came to visit Consort Mei again. Consort Mei was admiring stones in the garden. A palace maid brought Zhu Chuanzong to her side. Zhu Chuanzong saw that Consort Mei was staring intently at a stone and was puzzled. He had previously described it as either a star or, to put it bluntly, a broken stone, so he didn't know what was so interesting about it. So he asked, "Your Majesty, what's so interesting about this stone? I am foolish and know nothing about it!"

Consort Mei smiled and looked at him, saying, "Don't underestimate the hobby of collecting stones. It has existed since ancient times. There was a prime minister in the previous dynasty named Niu Sengru who had a saying about collecting stones: 'Treat them as guests and friends, regard them as precious jade, and love them as children and grandchildren.' Do you see how important this stone is?"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed and said, "A small stone is valued so much? I never expected that."

Consort Mei smiled and said, "It seems you haven't paid attention to this. Many famous people in the previous dynasty, such as Huang Tingjian, Ouyang Xiu, Lu You, and Su Dongpo, had a passion for stones." She wrote a poem about stones: "The lightning flashes past the cloud-capped peaks of the Qianxi River, still startling me in my dreams as the emerald green sweeps across the sky. The Five Ridges are no match for the thousand peaks beyond, Jiuhua Mountain is now contained within a single pot. The Heavenly Pool's waters recede, revealing layer upon layer, the Jade Maiden's window is open everywhere. Thinking of my own celestial pool, so lonely and desolate, I'd spend a hundred gold pieces to buy this exquisite jade." This art of appreciating and collecting stones is truly profound. Look at how many famous people love stones; it shows that a myriad of worlds are hidden within them!

Zhu Chuanzong listened to her gentle voice reciting the poem with such soothing beauty, and his love for it only deepened. He sincerely praised, "Your Majesty is so knowledgeable; I have truly broadened my horizons."

Seeing that he enjoyed listening, Consort Mei spoke further about the knowledge of stones. As they walked and talked, the two returned to their palace. Consort Mei smiled and said, "Yesterday was so comfortable; let's come again today! I didn't expect you to know so much at such a young age."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Your Majesty is truly knowledgeable. Just now, listening to Your Majesty talk about the art of appreciating and collecting stones has greatly broadened my knowledge!"

As they talked, Consort Mei lay on the bed, letting Zhu Chuanzong massage her.

Consort Mei asked, "Lord Zhu, what hobbies do you have?"

Zhu Chuanzong was taken aback and replied, "Me? I'm busy with cases every day, and I don't have much free time. I don't have any hobbies."

Consort Mei smiled and said, "That's not right. In life, one must have some hobbies. You can't always think about your career; otherwise, you'll live a wasted life. There are many fun and interesting things in the world! For example, poetry, embroidery, tea ceremony, and so on. You should explore some of these, my lord, to know some of the world's pleasures. Otherwise, life would be so boring! Even the Emperor, so busy, still finds time for these things. This shows a person's cultivation and inner qualities. You're so young; you should learn more."

Zhu Chuanzong hadn't paid attention to this before . He was utterly clueless about the pleasures of life. Suddenly remembering something, he said self-deprecatingly, "I've remembered what I like."

Consort Mei smiled and said, "Oh? What does Your Excellency like? Could you tell me? It must be a wonderful hobby."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "I dare not say, for fear Your Majesty will chop off my head."

Consort Mei giggled and said, "You're really deliberately teasing me. Alright! Whatever you say, only I will hear it, no one else will know, and no one will blame you, is that alright?"

Hearing her pleading words, Zhu Chuanzong could no longer hold back and said somewhat awkwardly, "I like collecting beautiful women."

Consort Mei was stunned at first, then burst into laughter, unable to hold back, and fell onto the bed laughing so hard that she shook her head. This sight aroused Zhu Chuanzong's lust.

After a long while, Consort Mei finally managed to suppress her laughter and said, "Your Highness's hobby is very good; you should continue to pursue it..."

She glanced up and saw Zhu Chuanzong's eyes were shining and his face was flushed, so she reached out and brushed his face, asking, "What's wrong with you?"

Zhu Chuanzong then snapped out of his lustful rage, suppressing his impulse, and said, "N-nothing."

Seeing Zhu Chuanzong's strange expression, and having grown familiar with him over the past two days, Consort Mei blushed deeply. After thinking for a moment, she couldn't help but laugh, "Isn't it said outside that you are...? Why are you collecting beauties?"

Seeing her extremely cute appearance and knowing she was joking, Zhu Chuanzong said seriously, "The art of collecting beauties is vast, it requires..." "Let me tell you, Your Majesty. Beautiful women can be categorized into the talented type, the refined lady type, the charming girl type, and so on. Beautiful women are like treasures; only those who know how to appreciate them can understand their value."

Seeing his eloquent discussion of beautiful women, Consort Mei stopped joking and nodded, saying, "You're right. Since beautiful women are treasures, we must know how to appreciate them. It's a pity that so many people only know how to collect and treasure them, but don't know how to cherish and appreciate them—what a waste!"

Seeing Zhu Chuanzong's thoughtful expression, she quickly changed the subject, saying, "For example, these stones. Rain flower stones are serene and elegant, stalactites are crystal clear and beautiful, chrysanthemum stones are colorful..." "The colorful, translucent mineral crystals, with their vibrant colors and flowing patterns, some resembling people or horses, lifelike; others like small bridges and flowing water, naturally formed paintings—truly, each stone a world, each stone an ancient history. But what use are they, no matter how beautiful, if no one knows how to appreciate them?"

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing her express a sense of loneliness in her boudoir, knew that although the Emperor favored her, he was, after all, an old man over sixty, and had many state affairs to attend to, while she was in the prime of her youth, naturally feeling lonely. So he smiled and said, "Your Majesty is right. These rare stones should be appreciated by those who love them, otherwise, no matter how novel or exquisite, if placed in the study..." "A garden is useless if no one appreciates it. It's like a blind man lighting a candle—a waste of wax."

Consort Mei smiled and said, "From what you've said, I know you're a man of good taste! Beauties, like stones, each have their own character; it's good to know how to appreciate them. Even if a beauty is excellent

in singing and dancing, if her master is blind, then it's useless! I just wonder how good your appreciation skills are!" Zhu Chuanzong blushed upon hearing this, suddenly thinking of the beauties around him. He had never really known how to appreciate them. Although Consort Mei was complaining about her bad luck in marrying an old emperor, he had made a similar mistake and couldn't help but ponder it.

The two discussed serious topics, each lost in their own thoughts. After a while, they realized the atmosphere was awkward and laughed.

They chatted for a while longer, becoming increasingly congenial, but Zhu Chuanzong dared not linger. Based on his understanding of meridians, he carefully massaged and unblocked Consort Mei's meridians before taking his leave.

Zhu Chuanzong returned to the yamen to handle his business. That evening, he returned to his outer residence, where Xue Jinxian was embroidering. Seeing him return, she put down her work.

Zhu Chuanzong quickly stopped her, saying, "No need to trouble yourself, Madam, please continue embroidering."

Xue Jinxian smiled, "Why the change in attitude today? Usually when I'm embroidering or knitting, you say I ignore you and neglect you. Why are you making me do it again this time?"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Before, I only noticed Madam's unparalleled beauty; I couldn't bear to miss a single glance. I never really appreciated Madam's exquisite skills. Besides, a woman as charming as Madam has a graceful demeanor when idle and a captivating charm when busy. To only appreciate one aspect is truly a waste. It's a pity I missed so much; now I must make up for it."

Xue Jinxian playfully scolded, "You're so glib!"

But secretly, she felt a sweet warmth in her heart. She had always been proud of her exceptional skills, but Zhu Chuanzong seemed indifferent, as if he only coveted her beauty. Hearing this today, however, he was secretly delighted, feeling a sense of perfect harmony. He said, "Then you sit and wait a while

. I'll keep you company after I finish this embroidery." Zhu Chuanzong sat down beside Xue Jinxian and saw her with her beautiful eyes slightly lowered. Her left hand held the embroidery thread, while her right hand, with its delicate, jade-like fingers, held a gold needle, threading and picking, twisting and pricking with exquisitely graceful movements. Her delicate nose opened slightly, her pretty face filled with focused concentration, and her pearly teeth gently biting her red lips—truly captivating and alluring, possessing a unique charm.

Zhu Chuanzong inwardly cursed himself: "Jin Xian is such an extraordinary woman, possessing superb skills, being well-read, and exceptionally intelligent. How could I treat her like an ordinary vase? Before our marriage, I even professed my love for her character and talent. A vulgar man who only knows how to seek pleasure is not worthy of her. Fortunately, I realized this in time."

However, after watching for a while, Zhu Chuanzong gradually couldn't resist. In the palace, he had been aroused by the alluring concubine, but he had forcibly suppressed his desire. Now, with such a beautiful woman before him, the candlelight flickering and the air filled with her fragrance, his heart burned like fire.

At this moment, Xue Jin Xian finished embroidering a thread and gently licked the end of the thread to her lips. Zhu Chuanzong, burning with desire, swallowed hard twice, and his manhood was already erect.

Xue Jinxian suddenly tilted her head, a half-smile on her face, and said, "Husband, do you hear a strange sound?"

Zhu Chuanzong shook his head and said, "I didn't hear anything."

Xue Jinxian laughed and said, "I thought it was the sound of swallowing saliva, but I must have misheard."

Zhu Chuanzong realized she was mocking him, and feigned anger, saying, "Fine, you dare to tease me? I'll teach you a lesson!"

He threw the embroidery cloth in Xue Jinxian's hand aside and pressed her down on the couch.

Before long, he stripped the beauty of her clothes, revealing her snow-white, delicate body, with exquisite curves, a sight to behold. In that wonderful little space, there was lush grass and flowing water. Zhu Chuanzong reached out and touched it, his hand covered in nectar.

Xue Jinxian let out a soft cry; she closed her eyes tightly, her cheeks as red as peach blossoms.

Zhu Chuanzong himself stripped naked, pressed Xue Jinxian to the edge of the couch, raised her jade-like legs, and thrust his erect penis into her flower. He felt the flower path was both soft and tight, and instantly became wildly aroused. He embraced her snow-white waist and hips, thrusting forcefully, displaying all his skills, pumping and pounding, making loud, smacking sounds, like celestial music.

After only a short while, Xue Jinxian, overwhelmed by pleasure, unconsciously ejaculated and softly begged for mercy.

Zhu Chuanzong was not yet satisfied and asked Xue Jinxian to change positions, but Xue Jinxian refused, her face flushed with shame, saying, "I am your wife, how can you be so wanton..."

Before she could finish speaking, Zhu Chuanzong thrust a few more times with great force, and Xue Jinxian was instantly numb to the bone, her slender waist twisting wildly, her jade thighs swaying, moaning softly and panting, unable to speak.

Zhu Chuanzong, panting heavily, whispered in her ear, "This is a sacred act of marital intimacy, how can it be considered licentious? Darling, listen to your husband, I guarantee you'll be satisfied."

Xue Jinxian initially shook her head in refusal, but she couldn't resist Zhu Chuanzong's coaxing and enticement, so she stripped naked, straddled her husband's waist, and, like riding a horse, spread her legs wide on either side. She grasped his large glans with her slender hands, aimed it at her vulva, and lowered her body, slowly taking it into her vagina. Seeing that it was inside, Jinxian released her grip on his penis, bent down, embraced Zhu Chuanzong's shoulders, pressed her face against his, rubbed her breasts against his chest, and indulged in passionate intimacy.

Zhu Chuanzong, his wish fulfilled, was overjoyed, and his penis grew even thicker and harder. After fiddling with the golden thread for a while, Xue Jinxian felt her legs go weak and she couldn't move anymore. Her eyes half-closed in

a seductive smirk, her breath coming in ragged gasps, she slumped against Zhu Chuanzong, scolding, "You naughty man, with all your tricks, are you satisfied now?" Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "This move is called 'pouring wax backwards,' it's just a common move. Your husband has many more tricks up his sleeve."

Xue Jinxian's face changed, "Good husband, your Jinxian is already tired enough, spare her."

Zhu Chuanzong knew she was dignified and had reached her limit today, so he didn't press her further. He turned her over, thrusting forcefully until he ejaculated, and they fell asleep embracing each other.

A few days later, on his way home, Zhu Chuanzong passed through a market and, on a whim, bought two gifts. Back home, while Dongxue and Qiuyue were on duty, he gave them to them.

Zhu Chuanzong bought Dongxue a collection of ancient poems, a rare and precious edition from a previous dynasty. Dongxue was delighted with it, but after caressing it for half a day, she said, "Young Master, I don't want this. It's too precious."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "What's so precious about it? You've given me your precious body, which you've kept hidden for over ten years, that's what's precious!"

Dongxue blushed, still refusing, "Serving you, young master, is my duty. I'm just a lowly maid, and it's already presumptuous of me to try and compose poetry! How could I possibly deserve something so precious? Young master, please don't spoil my good fortune."

Zhu Chuanzong held her small hand, saying seriously, "Although you are my maid, I have never treated you as a servant. You were unlucky to be born into a poor family, but you are beautiful and intelligent, no less than those rich young ladies. I am fortunate to have you, so naturally I will cherish and love you. Besides, I also enjoy listening to you recite poetry."

Dongxue's eyes reddened as she listened, tightly hugging the poetry collection, gazing at Zhu Chuanzong with a dreamy look, saying, "Young master!"

Her face was full of happiness.

Qiuyue, standing beside her, laughed, "Look how much the young master dotes on you, you must repay him well in the future!"

Her words were tinged with envy.

Zhu Chuanzong chuckled, "You're being so sour. Are you accusing me of favoritism? How could I forget you?"

He then pulled out a fine paintbrush he'd bought from "Danqingxuan."

Qiuyue loved painting and had long hoped for such a fine brush. Overjoyed, she exclaimed, "Thank you, young master!"

She took the brush, carefully put it away, and gave Zhu Chuanzong a sweet smile, looking truly charming and lovely.

These maids, having lived in a wealthy family like the Zhu household for so long, had high aspirations and expectations. Maids from other families were either reduced to playthings or married off to servants or farmers, neither of which they desired. Now, with a handsome, gentle, capable, and considerate young master, they felt it was a blessing they'd accumulated over several lifetimes. They grew increasingly infatuated with him, serving Zhu Chuanzong with the utmost devotion.

Xiao Yu just pouted and said to Zhu Chuanzong, "What kind of bewitching potion did you give them? They all want to stick to you."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "Because I know how to appreciate each of their strengths. We not only have the bond of master and servant, but also the bond of confidants, so naturally we are closer."

Seeing his smug look, Xiao Yu couldn't help but feel jealous and said, "I have a bad temper and a sharp tongue, and I'm the least pleasing to the young master. They are all gentle and charming, and they are your confidants. You might as well kick me out of the house, so I won't get in your way."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "Xiao Yu, your gentle anger and playful temper are the most endearing. I dream of hiding you away." "I love your straightforward personality. I'd love to be close to you, how could I possibly drive you away?"

Xiao Yu said, "Young Master, you're getting more and more eloquent, and your official rank is rising. No wonder so many girls like you."

Zhu Chuanzong asked, "So, Xiao Yu, do you like me?"

Xiao Yu's eyes darted around, and she asked, "What if I like you? What if I don't?"

Zhu Chuanzong leaned closer to her and whispered, "If you agree, I'll buy you a house outside, so you can live like an official's wife, okay?"

Xiao Yu said, "I'm too unlucky to enjoy that!"

She rolled her eyes at Zhu Chuanzong and gracefully left.

Zhu Chuanzong felt a burning desire, thinking, "This little vixen, I'll get you into bed sooner or later, and you'll be begging for mercy."

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