"Okay, let's go." Nan Jinxue snapped out of her daze, cracked her whip, and hurried forward, glancing every now and then at the large carriage. The servant could only shake his head dumbly before catching up as well.
The Prince of Zhenbei's Mansion was quite impressive, covering a very spacious area. Even from afar, one could see the layers upon layers of mansions and the towering buildings, giving one a sense of the mansion's grandeur. As the group arrived at the mansion's gate, they couldn't help but take a few more glances at the magnificent architecture.
The place was decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers, and the entire Zhenbei Prince's Mansion was filled with laughter. Even the two large stone lions at the gate were wearing red ribbons, adding a touch of joy to their majesty.
The area in front of the gate was filled with servants who were there to greet guests. They would immediately go up to the distinguished guests and quickly greet the high-ranking officials.
Steward Xue and Nan Jinxue got off the carriage at the front gate, and then let the women enter through the side gate. After all, the rules of the Great Xia Zhou Dynasty were strict, and the male superiority of women was quite strong.
Ji Wushang got out of the carriage and saw some stewardesses leading him to the back hall.
The sisters looked at each other, worried that their clothes weren't bright or pretty enough. Ji Yinxue had just woken up. As soon as she got off the carriage, she looked at Ji Wushang with a gentle look in her eyes, walked over, and said softly, "Eldest sister."
In Ji Wushang's memory, although her third sister, Ji Yinxue, was born to Consort Nangong and had a delicate and frail appearance, she was different from Consort Nangong. Ji Yinxue spent most of her time in her chambers, never interacting with outsiders. Occasionally, she would only visit Ji Wushang's Xinyuan Garden, and she visited less often because of Consort Nangong's constant scolding. In those years, Ji Wushang vaguely remembered that Ji Yinxue also cared for him, unlike her mother who was cruel and hypocritical! Nor was she as arrogant and domineering as her other half-sisters.
While talking to Nan Jinxue, Ji Yinxue was also asleep. Ji Wushang had a question in his mind, wondering why this was. Could it be that his third sister was sleepy?
"Third Sister." Ji Wushang said sweetly, pulling herself out of her thoughts. She remembered who was good to her and who was bad to her.
Ji Meiyuan and Ji Wuxia watched this scene and gave Ji Yinxue a disgusted look.
"Eldest sister, why do you think the Prince of Zhenbei's mansion has invited so many people today? There are quite a few women too." Ji Yinxue didn't seem to care, and wasn't afraid of being noticed by the two concubines in the distance. She uttered a question on her weak little face.
Ji Wushang looked around and indeed saw many female guests, all dressed beautifully, each adorned with flowers and colorful clothes, a feast for the eyes. He nodded and said, "That's true."
As they spoke, Princess Qinlian, daughter of the Princess Consort of Zhenbei, arrived, surrounded by her nannies. At fourteen, she was exceptionally beautiful, with exquisitely delicate features, flawless skin, and eyes that seemed to sparkle like glass. Her lips were a delicate red, and she smiled warmly. Her slender feet made her stroll gracefully forward. Today, she wore the most fashionable floral-print peach-red cloud-patterned silk robe, over which was a light pink moon-flower skirt. A cloud-like sash cinched her waist, adorned with a cloud-patterned sachet. Her hair was styled in a high, flowing bun, secured with a gold phoenix-carved hairpin. The pearls she wore were likely gifts from the palace, exceptionally exquisite. Her entire being exuded a pleasant fragrance, a truly delightful sight.
Seeing this, Ji Meiyuan immediately walked over and took Princess Qinlian's hand. "Good sister, it's been a long time!" Her face was full of joy and flattery, which made Princess Qinlian want to cover her mouth and laugh.
Princess Qinlian smiled slightly and said, "Good sister, I'm so glad to see you now." As she spoke, she patted Ji Meiyuan's hand, turned around, and took Ji Wushang's hand. "Good sister, Mother Consort was just asking when you would arrive! Now that you're here, I think you'll have to perform a few acts today!" She smiled again as she spoke.
Ji Meiyuan was "abandoned" by Princess Qinlian to hold Ji Wushang's hand. She was angry but couldn't vent her anger. She could only glare at Ji Wushang fiercely before finding a seat next to Ji Wuxia. Ji Wuxia glanced at her casually and nodded to Princess Qinlian in greeting.
Aunt Bai and Aunt Nangong looked over here, their brows furrowing slightly. Ji Wushang's status as the eldest daughter of the main wife made them feel disgusted! But since everyone was present, they could only let it go.
Ji Wushang seemed oblivious to their subtle actions and laughed, "Look at what you're saying. Today is the Princess's birthday. Who doesn't know that Princess Qinlian is a beautiful woman with outstanding talents? Asking Wushang to perform would only make everyone laugh."
"Hehe." Princess Qinlian covered her mouth and chuckled. "Look at what you're saying, sister. Today is Mother's birthday, and performing a few acts is a gift for her! What a joke! It's a joke, a really good one!" Princess Qinlian said with a laugh, and then pulled Ji Yinxue's hand with her other hand. "How have you been, Xue'er?"
"Thank you for your concern, Princess. I'm doing very well," Ji Yinxue returned the greeting with a slight smile. Princess Qinlian knew Ji Yinxue's personality and didn't blame her.
While they were talking, Ji Wushang looked around and realized that the back hall was indeed very large. There were more than a dozen tables set up around it, and it was only separated from the front hall by a garden walkway in the middle. Many noble ladies and young ladies were sitting in the back hall, eating some exquisite snacks and chatting in twos and threes.
In the high-rise building of the detached courtyard in the front hall, a noblewoman was chatting and laughing with several other noblewomen about everyday matters when a maid rushed in, knelt down and bowed, "Your Highness, the Prince has returned."
"Perfect!" Princess Zhenbei was delighted upon hearing this. To put it simply, this birthday banquet was a blessing for her, the princess. To put it more complexly, it was actually a selection of wives for the prince. Even if he didn't choose a wife, it would be good to see them! She hoped that the prince would take a fancy to one or two young ladies! This room was full of noble ladies and beautiful young ladies from high-ranking families, each one a feast for the eyes.
"Your Highness, Your Highness, Your Highness brought someone back to the manor with you," the maid said, still kneeling.
The princess couldn't help but wonder, "Prince Beigong Minhao never makes many friends, so why did he bring someone back this time? And why didn't he even say hello?" "Oh? Tell me," the princess said softly.
☆、016 A woman of unparalleled elegance, the birthday banquet begins
"Your Highness, it is the heir apparent of the Marquis of Jinnan's residence, Nan Xuzong. The heir apparent and the young master Nan returned to the residence together, and they are talking in the main room right now," the maidservant said, bowing her head.
"Hmm, you may leave!" Princess Zhenbei frowned. This Prince Nan was lame, and she didn't understand. At first, she didn't believe that Beigong Minhao considered this man a sworn brother, but today, he had invited him all into the manor. Originally, she hadn't invited Prince Nan because of his mobility issues and because he didn't usually socialize much. However, it seemed that Prince Nan possessed some abilities.
The Marquis of Jinnan's family was also a large hereditary family, but because Nan Xuzong was lame, he had not yet been granted the title of marquis.
Well then, Minhao is a smart man who can accomplish great things. How could I, as his mother, not support what he does? Thinking this, Princess Zhenbei led a few maids and servants toward the main room.
Princess Zhenbei and her entourage entered a secluded and quiet courtyard. Unlike other places, this one was less lively because Beigong Minhao preferred quiet, but the chirping of birds could be heard. This courtyard, belonging to Beigong Minhao, was clean, spacious, and bright, surrounded by imposing guards.
Princess Zhenbei finally saw the two men playing chess under the large banyan tree. Beigong Minhao sat on a stone bench, while Nan Xuzong sat in his specially made wheelchair. They were calm and silent, playing chess, the sound of each move echoing through the air, as if they were not discussing chess skills, but something else entirely. It was as if a stream of light was swirling around them, yet it was also faintly visible, disappearing in the blink of an eye.
The maids and servants watched the two extraordinary men playing chess, but only stole glances and dared not disturb them. After peeking, they lowered their heads and waited behind them.
"Ahem." Princess Zhenbei coughed lightly twice.
Bei Gongminhao and Nan Xuzong looked at each other and burst into laughter, leaving everyone bewildered. The next moment, Bei Gongminhao turned around and bowed deeply to the Princess Consort of Zhenbei, saying, "Mother Consort, congratulations on your boundless happiness and longevity." His handsome face was very serious.
"You mischievous monkey, you've even started imitating these strange etiquettes!" Princess Zhenbei looked at Beigong Minhao's appearance and couldn't help but laugh. Then, thinking of the female guests in the back hall, she continued, "Today when we return to the manor, I've specially invited many young ladies. You should go upstairs later and see if there's anyone you like, so I can make a decision for you."
"Pfft." Bei Gongmin laughed out loud, looking extremely playful, without any of the seriousness of a prince. "Those colorful young ladies and noblewomen are making my eyes dazzled!"
"Oh, what are you saying?" Princess Zhenbei smiled and gently pointed at Beigong Minhao with her finger.
At this moment, Nan Xuzong pushed his wheelchair around to the side and said, "Greetings, Princess Zhenbei. Congratulations, Princess Zhenbei. I have prepared some gifts, which have already been accepted by Steward Li." Steward Li is the steward in charge of all affairs of the Zhenbei Prince's Mansion.
"Your Highness is very kind," said the Princess Consort of Zhenbei with a smile. "Are you doing well at the Prince's residence?"
"Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. I'm eating and drinking well."
"That's right, I had to beg him three or four times before I finally got him to come and join in the fun!" Bei Gongminhao said playfully, pouting. He had looked serious and solemn when he was playing chess just now, but now he looked aggrieved and relaxed, which surprised everyone. It was as if he had been replaced by a different soul.
"Your Highness is too kind." Nan Xuzong smiled apologetically. The maids and servants around him blushed, but felt sorry for him. This handsome and resolute man was spending his life in a wheelchair.
"Enough talk. Come with me to the front hall. You can all be taken a look at. The young ladies from all sides are all stunning beauties. You're not young anymore. If you find someone you like, just let me know. Prince Nan can also tell me. According to seniority, Prince Nan should call me his maternal aunt!"
The Princess Consort of Zhenbei was originally from the Marquis of Jinbei's mansion. Her given name was Nan Qianqian, and according to seniority, she was Nan Xuzong's maternal uncle's wife. Back then, the Marquis of Jinnan and the Marquis of Jinbei were brothers, one living in the south of the imperial city and the other in the north, both serving the court.
Nan Xuzong's face showed a slight change of expression. "Yes, maternal aunt!" Over the years, the Jinbei Marquis's Mansion and the Jinnan Marquis's Mansion had not had much contact, so they had naturally become estranged. Now that the Princess of Zhenbei was talking about it, Nan Xuzong felt a little awkward.
Bei Gongmin laughed heartily. The women in the back hall were so colorful and dazzling, it was easy to be overwhelmed. But since it was the Princess Consort of Zhenbei's birthday, he couldn't say anything.
The group visited several small courtyards before arriving at the back hall. Princess Zhenbei arranged for the two of them to stay in Tinglou Xiaozhu, a small pavilion overlooking the back hall. Then, Princess Zhenbei led her maids and servants to the back hall.
Ji Wushang was chatting happily with some young ladies when they heard a commotion ahead. Looking up, they saw a beautiful woman approaching gracefully, surrounded by maids and servants. She wore a long, phoenix-embroidered satin jacket with gold trim, which, according to previous accounts, was the same long jacket bestowed by the emperor. Over this, she wore a bright red horse-face skirt with gold patterns. Her hair was styled in a high, nine-bun bun, adorned with a gold and jade hairpin. She exuded elegance and nobility. A touch of rouge on her face made her even more beautiful against her fair skin, and her pointed chin accentuated her shapely figure. Her appearance bore a resemblance to Princess Qinlian.
The power of the Zhenbei Prince's Mansion in the Great Xia Zhou Dynasty can be discerned simply by looking at the Zhenbei Princess's attire.
Upon seeing this, everyone quickly stepped forward to bow and greet each other.
"Everyone, please make yourselves at home. Although it's my birthday today, there's no need to be so formal. Let's treat it like a regular tea party or flower gathering. That way, it'll be more lively and fun." Princess Zhenbei was quite approachable, her face full of joy as she looked at everyone. Princess Qinlian was already beside the princess, holding her hand. "Mother! I think it would be better if, now that everyone is here, we could have the young ladies from each family come out into the hall to sing and perform. This would serve as a congratulatory gift, and also add some fun and laughter."
The ladies and concubines of all the families knew roughly what was going on. They had heard yesterday that the heir of the Prince of Zhenbei had returned from beyond the Great Wall, and the princess had invited so many people today. They wondered what his intention was. Being able to climb up to the Prince of Zhenbei's mansion would naturally bring wealth and honor to the family. Even if they couldn't be favored by the heir, they could still win a smile from the princess, which was still very good.
"That's a great idea! Everyone's here today, it'll make things more lively!" Aunt Bai exclaimed from the side, looking on with satisfaction as she drew everyone's attention.
As the crowd watched, many echoed the sentiment. Some young ladies were eager to try, while others were nervous and shy, their faces full of girlish charm.
Ji Wuxia nudged Ji Meiyuan, "Second Sister, would you like to go up and perform?"
"Of course." Ji Meiyuan said confidently, glancing at Ji Wuxia as well. "You should also get ready. Auntie is watching, hoping we can do well." After saying that, she looked up at Aunt Bai's side.
Aunt Bai and Aunt Nangong were talking when they saw the glances from Ji Meiyuan and the others. They both nodded, indicating that they should behave well.
At this point, a stage was temporarily set up in the open space in the back hall, and some young ladies went up on stage to perform.
"Do you think eldest sister will go up?" Ji Wuxia turned her head to look at Ji Wushang. Ji Wushang was the legitimate daughter, so shouldn't she be able to go up? But Ji Meiyuan sneered, "Hmph, she can't get on the stage even if she wanted to!"
☆、017 With the help of a benefactor, a song that captivates the city!
"Second sister." Ji Wuxia looked at Ji Meiyuan nervously. Could she have done something shameful?
"Alright, do whatever you want. I'm not going to kill her!" Ji Meiyuan replied coldly.
Ji Wuxia remained silent, turned her face away, and a slight smile appeared on her lips.
After the minor squabble, Princess Qinlian, as everyone had suggested, gracefully went on stage to perform and celebrate the birthday. She sang a birthday song and played a piece on the piano. The Princess of Zhenbei watched with a beaming smile, while the surrounding young ladies and wives showered her with praise, making the Princess even more overjoyed. Next came her two half-sisters, Princess Qinxiang and Princess Qinqing, who had just returned from burning incense at the temple with their grandmother.
Finally, it was Ji Wushang's turn to go up. Just as Ji Wushang was about to step forward, she suddenly felt dizzy. Ji Yinxue immediately sensed something was wrong and helped Ji Wushang up. "Big sister, what's wrong?"
Everyone around was looking at Ji Wushang, while Ji Meiyuan and Ji Wuxia sat to the side, a hint of sarcasm on their lips, waiting to see what would happen.
Ji Wushang frowned, clutching her lower abdomen. Had she really been tricked without even realizing it? How ridiculous! Ji Wushang's eyes swept towards Ji Meiyuan's side. Ji Meiyuan and Ji Wuxia were immediately frightened by her sharp gaze, but Ji Wushang had no time to pay attention. She didn't know what this little vixen had put in!
Recalling this morning, Ji Wushang remembered that he had only eaten some snacks. Zhu'er had gone to buy groceries, so Yue'er was in charge of the meals and even helped him get dressed... It seems it was that girl Yue'er! Ji Wushang suppressed his discomfort and smiled slightly, "I'm fine." After saying that, he released Ji Yinxue's hand and walked up firmly with firm steps. Ji Yinxue watched, a hint of worry on her face.
On one side, Aunt Bai and Aunt Nangong watched, one hating that her daughter wasn't ruthless enough, that she could have easily poisoned him! The other hated that her daughter had disregarded her mother's preferences and strict orders to help Ji Wushang.
Ji Meiyuan stared wide-eyed. What? Yue'er's medicine didn't work? She clearly saw it taking effect! Yue'er was already staggering and barely able to move! All she did was make her faint and then go down to rest so she couldn't perform on stage! Yue'er couldn't even do something so simple? Ji Meiyuan's face turned red with anger as she watched, her hands rubbing together the peanuts she had just picked up, crushing them without letting go.
Standing on the stage, Ji Wushang looked around at the people, feeling as if they were all layered upon each other, creating a double image! Damn it, he wouldn't let these people get away with it! Ji Wushang tried desperately to stay awake, pinching his thigh hard with his right hand. A sharp pain shot from his thigh to his brain, bringing him slightly more clarity. Ji Wushang took a deep breath, his mind racing, trying to think of a way to alleviate his dizziness. He had read many medical books last night, but unfortunately, he hadn't found any methods for staying conscious.
But just then, Ji Wushang felt a gentle tap on his temple! Instantly, his head felt less dizzy, and strangely, his hands even regained strength! Ji Wushang was filled with questions. Was it just his imagination? Why? But seeing everyone waiting for his performance, he put aside his thoughts.
"Brother Nan, you've broken the rules." Inside Tinglou Xiaozhu, Beigong Minhao turned to look at Nan Xuzong, who was sitting in a wheelchair. "We just agreed to meet. Hehe, I didn't expect you, the Prince Nan, who doesn't concern yourself with the affairs of the martial world, to get involved in the affairs of those young ladies, haha!" Beigong Minhao laughed so hard he almost fell over, his whole demeanor extremely exaggerated. Luckily, this was a secluded place; otherwise, people would definitely think something serious had happened!
"Don't you find it interesting?" Nan Xuzong said expressionlessly. "She was about to collapse, but she kept going. Interesting, very interesting. I was just giving her a helping hand so she could keep going."
“Brother Nan, haha…” Beigong Minhao laughed even harder, but he slowly turned his attention back to the woman on the stage.
Ji Wushang bowed deeply to the Princess Consort of Zhenbei, "Wushang wishes the Princess Consort abundant wealth, good fortune, and joy!" His manners and words were impeccable.
Princess Zhenbei had thought something had happened to Ji Wushang and was just about to ask when she saw her looking radiant. The princess smiled and said, "Wushang is such a lovely person." "Sister Wushang, shall we perform?" Princess Qinlian took the princess's arm and said sweetly.
Ji Wushang nodded, turned around and looked at the musical instruments that had been arranged, a smile playing on his lips.
Ji Wushang picked up the pipa, closed his eyes slightly, and then sat down on the ground in the middle of the platform.
With a slender, delicate hand plucking the strings, the sounds of stringed instruments flowed forth like a gentle stream. She first played a birthday song, which no one found particularly special, so they all went about their own business. Ji Wushang smiled slightly, then retuned the strings. Everyone assumed she was going to play the pipa again, and laughed, but she didn't play again. Turning to look on in confusion, they were surprised to find Ji Wushang clearing her throat and beginning to sing:
When I left, the willows were swaying gently.
Now I come to think of it, and the rain and snow are falling heavily.
Those who know me say I am worried.
Those who do not know me, what do they think I seek?
Those who know me say I am worried.
Those who do not understand me, what do they think I seek?
Hearing the clear, crisp voice and the heartbreaking lyrics, everyone listened in silence. Those who had been shelling peanuts stopped, and the maids and servants who had been pouring tea stopped too, setting down their bowls to watch and listen quietly. Even their conversations ceased; the surroundings seemed to freeze, filled only with the sound of the song. Bei Gongminhao's smile froze the moment the song began, while Nan Xuzong's heart surged with emotion. What kind of person could sing such lyrics and such a song?
The song faded, leaving a lingering feeling, yet tears welled in Ji Wushang's eyes. In this life and the last, who truly understands me? Who greets me with smiles and laughter, yet behind my back I turn to daggers? Hah, life is but a fleeting moment. To find one true friend, and to find two soulmates—is that even possible? At this moment, Ji Wushang gently placed her hands on the pipa, lightly plucking a string. The pipa began to play, and she opened her mouth to continue singing:
When I left, the willows were swaying gently.
Now I come to think of it, and the rain and snow are falling heavily.
Those who know me say I am worried.
Those who do not know me, what do they think I seek?
The world is vast, but my heart is filled with turmoil.
This life is simple and peaceful; I ask for nothing more.