The Enchanting Empress Dowager Is Really Poisonous Volume 2 Chapter 4 - Deep Affection! Hua Jinzhi's Coming-of-Age Ceremony!

Volume 2 Chapter 4 - Deep Affection! Hua Jinzhi's Coming-of-Age Ceremony!

When Leng Jiu returned to the palace, Ziyu was the first to notice her. There was no surprise on her face, clearly indicating that she had already realized this wasn’t Leng Jiu.

“Please follow me first!” Ziyu led Leng Jiu around the front hall, entering the central hall through a side door and arriving at a screen. “That person is speaking with the newly promoted n.o.ble Consort Ning and Consort w.a.n.g. They are the two whose faces were scratched that day. The injuries on their faces have fully healed, and they’ve come bearing gifts to express their grat.i.tude.”

“Oh? And where is Kano?”

“Kano doesn’t like her touching him, so I took it upon myself to have Qiuxin take him aside to play!”

“Hmm!” Leng Jiu smiled slightly. “You’re quite clever! By the way, do you know anything about Chancellor Gong Yuwei’s entry into the palace?”

“I heard from the palace servants that the Seventh Princess had her maid return to the palace dressed in her clothes the night before last, while she stayed overnight at the Chancellor’s residence. The Chancellor wasn’t aware of this, but it was a fact that the princess spent the night there. The Emperor wanted to see this matter through, so after consulting with several ministers, he issued an imperial decree for marriage. Once the decree was issued, Chancellor Gong disregarded his illness and got up immediately. It’s said that he was so agitated that he almost fell, his face full of anger. Ignoring others’ attempts to stop him, he hastily dressed and came to the palace to ask the Emperor to revoke the decree. When the Emperor asked him why he was unwilling, he only said that he wasn’t worthy of the princess’s n.o.ble status and begged the Emperor to find a better match for her. The Emperor tried to persuade him with kind words, but the Chancellor remained as stubborn as an antique, so the Emperor left in a huff. The Chancellor has been kneeling outside the hall since yesterday afternoon—it’s been nearly ten hours now!”

“What a stubborn, unyielding blockhead!” Leng Jiu chuckled helplessly, feeling somewhat resigned toward the man. He strictly adhered to the rules of propriety, doing everything by the book. If Xiao Jiu didn’t exist, he might have married the Seventh Princess obediently, even if he wouldn’t have loved her deeply. They could have lived as a respectful and harmonious couple. But she had to intervene, and after just a few encounters, he had fallen so deeply that he would do something so drastic!

“And the Seventh Princess?”

“She returned yesterday afternoon. It’s said that she cried so much that she fainted last night!”

Fainted from crying? More likely, she cried herself to sleep! Leng Jiu gently rubbed her temples. “Go and summon the Seventh Princess.”

“Yes!”

Ziyu walked out, and Leng Jiu went to the wardrobe to find clothes to change into. Just as she had finished donning the complex palace attire, Qingling entered. Seeing Leng Jiu, she was slightly surprised, but quickly composed herself and gave a slight bow to Leng Jiu, which indicated her current att.i.tude.

Leng Jiu observed her attire and demeanor and immediately understood why Ziyu had recognized her. Despite the two of them having identical faces at that moment, their auras were entirely different. Qingling exuded a sense of steadiness, maturity, and a certain rigid dignity and n.o.bility. This must have been the old Leng Jinghua!

“What task has your master given you this time?”

Qingling knelt on both knees, her head respectfully lowered. “From now on, you are my master, and I will obey your every command!”

Leng Jiu raised an eyebrow. Has she finally come to her senses? Or has Leng Yue discarded her? But according to Leng Yue, her value can only be realized by staying by my side, and I do indeed need a stand-in like her. “Starting today, you will be demoted to a second-cla.s.s palace maid. Serve in the front hall.”

“Yes!”

Qingling got up, removed her disguise, and changed into the attire of a second-cla.s.s palace maid. Under Lu Chang’s astonished gaze, she walked out, keeping her eyes straight ahead as if she didn’t see his surprise. She went to stand silently behind a curtain.

“Lu Chang!” Leng Jiu’s call brought Lu Chang back to his senses.

“Yes, Your Grace!”

“Come in and style my hair!”

“Yes, Your Grace!”

Lu Chang entered to see Leng Jiu sitting at the dressing table, her brows clear and bright, completely different from just a moment ago. He was puzzled but didn’t show it, stepping forward to style her hair. As he worked, he said, “I just saw Qingling and almost thought I was seeing things. I looked again, and it really was her. She was so prim and proper, I almost didn’t recognize her!”

Leng Jiu selected a hairpin from the table, her brows slightly moving at his words. “Undisciplined people need to be taught properly. With enough discipline, even the most unruly can learn to behave.”

“Your Grace is right!”

After Lu Chang finished styling Leng Jiu’s hair, Ziyu had already brought the Seventh Princess.

“Your Grace! The Seventh Princess is waiting outside the hall!”

Leng Jiu took Ziyu’s hand, stood up, and brushed off her clothes. “Let’s go!”

Leng Jiu stepped out, and a small figure slightly bowed before her. A delicate, weak voice, tinged with hoa.r.s.eness, greeted her. “Greetings, Your Grace!”

“You may rise,” Leng Jiu said, slightly raising her hand as she walked to her seat. She pointed to a spot next to her. “Come sit here, I’d like to talk with you.”

The Seventh Princess seemed a little overwhelmed by the attention. “Thank you, Your Grace!”

She lifted her skirt, taking small steps up the stairs. After another slight bow to Leng Jiu, she carefully sat down, her knees together, slightly bent, with her hands folded on her lap, her back straight. Her actions were precise and proper, just like someone taught by Gong Yuwei!

Leng Jiu finally took a closer look at the Seventh Princess. Her features bore a slight resemblance to Long Yi, not quite a great beauty, but with delicate and pretty features, a small palm-sized face, and slightly red and swollen eyes from crying, giving her a fragile look that made one want to protect her. Though she was trying to appear composed and dignified, she couldn’t hide her nervousness and inexperience. In this world, girls reached maturity at fifteen; she had just come of age, meaning she wasn’t even fifteen yet, essentially still a child!

“I heard you fainted from crying last night. What has upset you so much?”

The Seventh Princess glanced at Leng Jiu, feeling both sad and embarra.s.sed. “It’s nothing, Your Grace.”

“Really? I heard Chancellor Gong is still kneeling outside the hall.”

At this, the Seventh Princess’s expression immediately darkened. She lowered her head, holding back her tears. “It’s because I’m not worthy of him. He would rather defy the imperial decree than marry me. What more can I ask for?”

Leng Jiu tapped the lid of her teacup, puzzled. “Have you met Chancellor Gong before?”

The Seventh Princess, Long Ah Ning, shook her head. “No! It was only after the decree was issued that I went to his residence.”

“So you’ve only known him for four or five days, and he’s already made such a deep impression on you?” Leng Jiu raised an eyebrow.

The Seventh Princess twisted her handkerchief, a bit embarra.s.sed. “I’ve been raised in the palace all these years, never seeing any men from outside. When my brother told me about the marriage decree, I knew he would be my husband, so I would have married him regardless of who he was. Besides, the palace maids had already spoken of his achievements, so I was curious.”

“When I went to his residence that day and saw him, I realized he was such a man… I wanted to care for him, but he strictly adhered to propriety, not letting me touch him at all. Although he treated me coldly, I didn’t get angry, because I knew he was a responsible man. So I waited for the imperial decree, even prepared myself to marry him, but he was so resolute. I will never forget how he looked when he received the decree—so heartbroken, so desperate, even more than I was. At that moment, I knew it was all just wishful thinking.”

Leng Jiu watched as the Seventh Princess shed tears, heartbroken yet unable to resent Gong Yuwei. She began to understand. The environment and education the princess had received ingrained in her the belief in following her husband after marriage. Long Yi, as the Emperor, had given her a certain future, so she naturally regarded Gong Yuwei as the husband she would serve. With a mindset of accepting her fate, she went to him, only to be struck by his appearance and demeanor. At her age, fifteen, the time when young girls awaken to love, it wasn’t hard for her to fall for Gong Yuwei after just a few days of interaction.

Leng Jiu raised her eyebrows, feeling a bit conflicted. Although the Seventh Princess wasn’t the type of person she liked, she had a gentle temperament and was wholeheartedly devoted to Gong Yuwei, making them a well-matched pair. Leng Jiu was inclined to let her marry him, but the problem was whether that stubborn block of wood, Gong Yuwei, could change his mind.

Du Heng beckoned Zi Yu over, whispered a few words to her, and then left. Zi Yu approached Leng Jiu and quietly informed her, “The Emperor has finished court and left a few ministers in the imperial study. He has just summoned Lord Gong inside!”

Leng Jiu was silent for a moment, then closed her eyes and opened them again, finally making a decision. She looked at the Seventh Princess and said, “Accompany me to the imperial study.”

The Seventh Princess was initially slow to react, but when she realized that the Empress Dowager was taking her to the imperial study, where she would meet her elder brother, the Emperor, she became excited. She eagerly nodded, “Yes!”

Leng Jiu had never been to the imperial study before, but with Lu Chang leading the way, there was no need for her to worry.

In the imperial study, Long Yi sat on the throne, with a few princes and ministers seated on either side. Gong Yuwei was still kneeling upright in the middle, and the atmosphere was tense. At that moment, a guard entered and announced, “Your Majesty! The Empress Dowager and the Seventh Princess request an audience!”

Hearing the words “Empress Dowager,” Long Yi frowned, but he relaxed when he heard that the Seventh Princess was also there. “Let them in!” he said.

“Yes!” the guard replied.

Leng Jiu entered the imperial study, walking past a one-meter-tall bronze incense burner as she made her way inside. Her gaze swept over the thin figure of Gong Yuwei kneeling on the ground, before settling on Long Yi. “Your Majesty, you know that the Prime Minister is still recovering from a serious illness, yet you have allowed him to kneel for so many hours. If something were to happen to him, wouldn’t Your Majesty be losing a valuable talent?”

The Seventh Princess glanced at Gong Yuwei with concern, then bowed and said, “An Ning greets the Emperor!”

Long Yi raised his hand to excuse the Seventh Princess from her formal greeting, then addressed Leng Jiu, “I didn’t make him kneel; he insisted on doing so himself. We tried to pull him up, but he wouldn’t budge!”

Leng Jiu walked past several ministers, took a seat in the grand teacher’s chair that Eunuch Qu had placed on Long Yi’s right, and leisurely sipped her tea, casually remarking, “I’ve heard about the events of the past few days. Just now, the Seventh Princess told me a lot, so I have a general understanding of the situation. The Emperor’s intent to bestow a favorable marriage upon a subject is a good thing, but it has turned into such a difficult matter. However, it still needs to be resolved; it can’t be dragged on like this, can it?”

As Long Yi listened to Leng Jiu’s voice, it struck him in a way it hadn’t before. Compared to Hua Yuxuan’s dignified and virtuous demeanor, he found himself more drawn to Leng Jiu’s casual and natural manner. Even though he knew that an unbridgeable gap lay between them, he couldn’t help but feel his heart tremble at her presence.

“What does the Empress Dowager think should be done?” Long Yi asked.

Leng Jiu looked down at Gong Yuwei, raising her eyebrows slightly, “Defying an imperial decree is a capital offense. Even a prime minister cannot be an exception. But since this matter stems from a marriage decree, it would be inappropriate to turn a joyful occasion into a tragic one. Why not allow Lord Gong to present a reason why he must refuse the marriage? If he can convince the Emperor and the ministers present, then the Emperor can pardon him for defying the decree. If he cannot, then he should be taken to the Meridian Gate and executed. What do you think?”

Upon hearing this, Long Yi fell into deep thought, but the Seventh Princess burst into tears and knelt down, crying, “Elder Brother! An Ning won’t marry him; you can’t kill him!”

She then knelt in front of Leng Jiu, pleading, “Empress Dowager! An Ning begs you, please don’t force him. I don’t blame him. Please don’t have him killed!”

Leng Jiu looked at her coldly, “There are laws in the nation and rules in the family. The Emperor is the ruler of the nation, and an imperial decree represents an absolute command. Defying a decree is a crime punishable by death and can lead to the execution of one’s entire clan. Even a three-year-old child knows this. How can the Prime Minister, who knows the law, break it and be pardoned just because the Seventh Princess pleads on his behalf? Where would the Emperor’s authority be?”

Long Yi stared deeply at Leng Jiu, seemingly not expecting her to speak so sternly.

Prince De and a few others exchanged glances and reluctantly agreed with Leng Jiu’s words, “Your Majesty! We support the Empress Dowager’s suggestion. The Emperor’s authority must not be undermined, but a joyful occasion shouldn’t turn into a tragedy. We request that Your Majesty give the Prime Minister one last chance. This way, Your Majesty would be showing the utmost benevolence!”

“We second this motion!” the ministers echoed.

Long Yi was silent for a moment, then raised his hand, “Very well! I will give him one more chance.”

“Lord Gong! This is your last chance. You still have time to change your mind!”

The Seventh Princess looked at Gong Yuwei with tearful eyes, her thoughts now only focused on him surviving.

“Your Majesty! This humble servant, Gong Yuwei, thanks you for your grace!” Gong Yuwei bowed deeply, then slowly raised his head, his gaze landing directly on Leng Jiu. When he finally saw her face clearly, he smiled—not the warm smile that had once flashed briefly across his face, but a smile filled with a profound understanding, one tinged with despair.

Gong Yuwei had risen to the position of prime minister; how could he be a mere bookish fool? He had chosen not to investigate or delve deeper because he didn’t want to get involved or let such matters disrupt his life. But then, someone broke into his world, bringing a ray of light into his cold existence. He felt nervous, hesitant, uncertain, and shy. Finally, he realized his true feelings and wanted to grasp that ray of light, but in that moment, it turned into a sharp blade that pierced his heart and then vanished!

He fell from the clouds into h.e.l.l, feeling despair and a deadened heart, but he still wanted to find her again, no matter the cost. He had always done things by the book, but for her, he had gone mad once. What did he have to fear in going mad a second time?

Leng Jiu met Gong Yuwei’s gaze and saw the resolve in his eyes—a look of gentleness mixed with complexity. No one else understood, but she saw through the countless daggers hidden within, stabbing into her heart, causing an instant and unbearable pain. The emotions and feelings conveyed in that gaze shocked Leng Jiu, shaking her normally indifferent heart to its core.

“Cras.h.!.+” The cup she had been holding slipped from her hand and shattered on the ground, startling everyone in the room and bringing Leng Jiu back to her senses. She lowered her eyes, “My hand slipped. Please continue, Your Majesty.”

Seeing that she wasn’t hurt, Long Yi felt a sense of relief and turned back to Gong Yuwei, “Lord Gong! Speak!”

Gong Yuwei kept his head bowed, a small shard of porcelain from the broken cup cutting his hand and leaving a wound from which bright red blood flowed. It stung, but he felt a strange satisfaction. At least, in that brief moment, she had lost her composure because of him. At least, she didn’t completely disregard him. Even though there could never be anything between them, it was enough for him to keep her in his heart.

“Your Majesty! This humble servant already has a fiancée and dares not marry the princess!”

“Fiancée?” Long Yi clearly didn’t believe it, “Why didn’t you mention this yesterday? Besides, I’ve never heard of you having a fiancée.”

“This humble servant indeed has a fiancée. The reason I didn’t speak of it was because… it is difficult to explain.”

“What could be so difficult that you’d rather die than say it?” Long Yi asked.

Gong Yuwei clenched his fist, hesitating for a long time before finally speaking, “My fiancée is not from Fengyu. I met her while studying abroad. I brought her back to meet my mentor, and we exchanged tokens of affection. Not long ago, she came to the capital to visit me. Overcome by longing… I couldn’t control myself and offended her. In anger, she severed our engagement, and it was this incident that made me ill…”

Leng Jiu couldn’t help but twitch her eyelids repeatedly until it became painful. Gong Yuwei’s explanation was so heartfelt and convincing, though a bit far-fetched, that even she almost believed in the existence of this fiancée!

Unmarried men and women were expected to follow strict moral codes. While some people might not pay much attention to this, Gong Yuwei was the top disciple of the Imperial Tutor, who had been rigorously trained and was naturally more concerned with propriety than others. Because of his deep feelings, he had offended the woman, and his sense of guilt and shame made him reluctant to talk about it. This incident had led to his illness, which in turn resulted in the proposal of the marriage to the Seventh Princess. His love for his fiancée was so deep that he couldn’t accept the imperial decree or explain himself, which is why he had refused the marriage.

As for his fiancée, since he mentioned the rigid and stern Imperial Tutor, almost no one doubted her existence, including Long Yi.

This explanation, neither too long nor too short, was immediately accepted by everyone present. In fact, it seemed so reasonable that one couldn’t help but admire his integrity.

“And where is this fiancée of yours from?” Long Yi’s tone lost its coldness, replaced by curiosity. After all, Gong Yuwei, who appeared to be a strict and old-fas.h.i.+oned man, was now revealing a side that made everyone curious about the woman who had moved him so deeply.

“Until I win her back and marry her, I would prefer to keep her ident.i.ty a secret. Please forgive me, Your Majesty!” Gong Yuwei replied earnestly.

“Haha!” Long Yi laughed, glancing at the tearful Seventh Princess, “An Ning! It’s not that your brother doesn’t want to help you, but it’s impossible to force someone in matters of love!”

The Seventh Princess was heartbroken but also deeply moved by Gong Yuwei’s profound affection. She nodded, “An Ning understands!”

“In a little over a month, it will be your coming-of-age ceremony. After that, I will find you a suitable husband. Is that acceptable?”

“Thank you, Elder Brother!” Though sorrowful, she still expressed her grat.i.tude.

Leng Jiu raised her hand, and Lu Chang immediately stepped forward to support her as she rose. She spoke wearily, “Now that this matter is resolved, I haven’t come in vain today. But I am a bit tired, so I shall take my leave.”

“Farewell, Empress Dowager!” everyone echoed.

Leng Jiu lifted her steps and walked past Gong Yuwei, her stride pausing slightly beside him before she naturally continued forward.

Gong Yuwei kept his head lowered, watching as Leng Jiu’s steps pa.s.sed by him, the long hem of her dress brus.h.i.+ng against the back of his hand, carrying a scent unique to her. For some reason, he felt like smiling. The despair and gloom in his heart lightened slightly. Although he could no longer grasp that beam of sunlight, at least it was in a place where he could still see it.

“Brother Emperor! Ah Ning takes her leave!”

“Hmm.”

The Seventh Princess gave Gong Yuwei a deep look before following Leng Jiu.

Seeing that the matter had been resolved, Long Yi, though his edict hadn’t been enforced, wasn’t angry this time. “Eunuch Qu! Have someone escort Prime Minister Gong back and ensure he is well taken care of!”

“Yes!”

By this time, it was just past noon. The bright sunlight was so intense that it was hard to keep one’s eyes open. Leng Jiu stood at the end of a white marble corridor, gazing at the distant sky. A strange feeling of melancholy arose within her. She had once toyed with power and wealth, standing at the pinnacle of the underworld, where men were merely her playthings. She treated them well but never truly cared. She had believed she would never have feelings for any man. But now, Gong Yuwei had become an exception. His purity and sincerity made her reluctant to hurt him, which was why she had rejected him. But she still couldn’t help but worry about him. She had secretly checked on him that day and had helped him out of the crisis today. She had already done too much.

If those actions weren’t enough to prove her affection, then the way her heart raced and trembled at that one glance, that fleeting smile—she couldn’t deceive herself. These feelings shouldn’t have taken root in her heart!

Closing her eyes, she let out a long sigh in her heart, “Back to the palace!”

“Empress Dowager!” The Seventh Princess ran over, stopping in front of Leng Jiu and slightly curtseying, “Ah Ning thanks the Empress Dowager for today’s kindness!”

Leng Jiu opened her eyes, “What kindness have I shown you?”

The Seventh Princess gave a shy smile, suppressing some bitterness, “The Empress Dowager forced him to speak his true feelings. Although Ah Ning is sad, at least I now understand, and I won’t continue to pester him in the future!”

Leng Jiu turned and walked towards the next corridor, “His refusal to marry you is his loss. Forget about it.”

“Ah Ning understands!”

Leng Jiu returned to the palace, collapsed onto the bed without bathing, and dismissed everyone. She curled up under the covers, feeling tired and sleepy, really wanting to get some proper rest. She was truly exhausted.

Outside the palace, Gong Yuwei was escorted out. His words and the events had already spread beyond the palace, quickly becoming the latest gossip. Because of his spontaneous confession, the Prime Minister was now seen as a man with a hint of romantic ambiguity. When people spoke of the Prime Minister, it was no longer with coldness or distance, for he was a man with feelings and desires. He had also gained a new label—devotion. For the woman he loved, he had refused a princess. Such a devoted man would surely capture the hearts of many young ladies.

When Ziyu relayed the palace gossip to Leng Jiu, she simply smiled faintly, not paying much attention. She didn’t want to dwell on it.

Things outside the palace were progressing smoothly. Leng Jiu didn’t need to supervise them personally. The outside world was abuzz with talk about Gong Yuwei, but she had no desire to leave the palace. It was a rare opportunity to enjoy a few quiet days. Long Yi, for some inexplicable reason, had the state treasury turned over and even sent some gifts to Leng Jiu, who accepted everything without hesitation. Only a fool would refuse wealth!

August pa.s.sed, and September arrived. In the blink of an eye, it was the Double Ninth Festival(Chóngyáng Jié).

Leng Jiu’s back injury had completely healed. New skin, tender and pink, had grown in, making her feel itchy and irritable. She stayed in bed, unwilling to get up.

Ziyu entered and saw Leng Jiu still lying in bed. She couldn’t help but laugh. “Empress Dowager! It’s time to get up!”

Leng Jiu frowned in displeasure. “This is the time for sleeping. Why should I get up?”

Ziyu smiled. “In the whole world, only this Empress Dowager would laze in bed and act spoiled.” She continued, “The Emperor and n.o.ble Consort Hua have come, saying they wish to invite you to leave the palace with them.”

Leng Jiu opened her eyes. “You didn’t mishear? They came to invite me?”

Ziyu nodded confidently. “Absolutely not. The Emperor’s carriage is already at the palace gate. They said today is Hua Gongzi’s capping ceremony. The Emperor is accompanying the n.o.ble Consort to attend. After today, Hua Gongzi will be conferred the t.i.tle of heir and will inherit the t.i.tle of Duke De in the future!”

“So it’s that brat’s coming-of-age day!” Leng Jiu smacked her lips, hesitating for a while before finally getting up. “I’ll consider it a chance to relax.”

Ziyu selected a light gold phoenix robe for Leng Jiu. With a slender waist and a matching gauze sash around her arm, the outfit was elegant but not overly ornate, suitable for a carriage ride. Ziyu chose a simple hairstyle that was luxurious yet not too elaborate, with minimal hair accessories so that it wouldn’t strain her neck.

After lightly applying makeup and doing her brows, Ziyu looked at the beautiful woman in front of her. If she were called the Empress, no one would doubt it. And even if she were the Empress, she’d be the most beautiful one. But fate had made her the Empress Dowager, destined to live a lonely life during her prime years.

“Alright! Empress Dowager, you may depart now.”

“Hmm.”

Leng Jiu looked at herself in the mirror, satisfied, before heading out. Long Yi and Hua Yuxuan were still waiting. Leng Jiu gave them a brief glance. “Let’s go.”

Long Yi and Hua Yuxuan shared a carriage, while Leng Jiu’s followed behind, both in dazzling bright yellow. Once Leng Jiu got into the carriage, she felt drowsy and pulled Ziyu in to chat and keep her company.

Ziyu had read many books and knew plenty of interesting stories, which she recounted one by one to Leng Jiu. Although Leng Jiu didn’t show much expression most of the time, she didn’t seem impatient either, and Ziyu continued her tales throughout the journey.

Finally, the carriage stopped at the gate of the Duke De’s mansion. At the eunuch’s announcement, the people inside immediately knelt down.

“Welcome, Your Majesty! Welcome, Empress Dowager and n.o.ble Consort!”

Three chairs were set up in the center of the courtyard. Long Yi took his seat with n.o.ble Consort Hua, leaving the other one for Leng Jiu.

Long Yi dismissed the courtiers and exchanged pleasantries with Lord De, after which the gifts were brought in.

Once everything was ready, they just had to wait for the right time to begin the capping ceremony.

Leng Jiu felt someone’s gaze on her and turned to see Gong Yuwei seated at the front. However, he wasn’t looking at her but was instead sipping his wine quietly. Despite sitting among the other ministers, his white robes made him stand out, just like the man himself, out of place in this setting.

Leng Jiu reined in her thoughts and focused on her tea cup, but even without looking at him, she could still feel his presence. Never before had she resented her own sensitivity so much!

“The time has come!”

At the minister’s announcement, everyone perked up as the capping ceremony began.

Hua Jinzhi was dressed in crimson and gold as usual, but today’s outfit was particularly elaborate. The intricate patterns on the robe clearly showed it was custom-made. Such clothing wasn’t worn by just anyone! Despite the robe’s complexity and grandeur, it couldn’t overshadow his presence.

His hair was simply tied up, with no adornments, as he walked proudly forward. His gaze briefly swept over Leng Jiu, a smile playing on his lips as he knelt before Lord De. “Father!”

Lord De looked at him, smiling continuously. Seeing his son grow into such a handsome young man brought him immense joy.

“The first capping ceremony!”

For men, there were three parts to the capping ceremony, unlike women who only had one. The first was performed by the father, the second by a distinguished guest, and the last one was more flexible. Lord De carefully placed a crimson gold crown on Hua Jinzhi’s head.

“The second capping ceremony!”

Lord De turned to Long Yi, bowing respectfully. “May I trouble Your Majesty?”

An attendant brought over a tray with a jade crown on it. Long Yi picked it up and placed it in the center of the crimson gold crown, instantly enhancing its splendor.

“The third capping ceremony!”

Hua Yuxuan stood up. As n.o.ble Consort and Hua Jinzhi’s elder sister, it was naturally her turn to perform this part.

However, when Hua Yuxuan moved forward with the final hairpin, Hua Jinzhi dodged it. “The Empress Dowager is still here!”

Hua Yuxuan’s hand froze, her face turning sour. “How can the Empress Dowager perform this ceremony for you?”

Ignoring her, Hua Jinzhi looked at Leng Jiu. “For this final part, may I ask if the Empress Dowager would do me the honor?”

Immediately, all eyes turned to Leng Jiu. Although it was unusual, Leng Jiu was the Empress Dowager, and her status was beyond question. If she were to perform this part, it would not disgrace Lord De’s heir.

Under the scrutiny of everyone, Leng Jiu suddenly smiled. “So that’s why the Emperor sent so many gifts! It was all for this.”

Ziyu opened a small box containing a crimson gold and jade hairpin, matching Hua Jinzhi’s crown perfectly. Hearing Leng Jiu’s words, everyone a.s.sumed this had all been prearranged by the Emperor.

Leng Jiu took the hairpin and walked over to Hua Jinzhi. In his burning gaze that nearly melted her, she bent slightly to pin the hairpin in place. With the three parts of the capping ceremony complete, she gave him a teasing smile that only he could see. “Congratulations, Hua Gongzi, on reaching adulthood!”

Hua Jinzhi’s face flushed at her teasing smile, feeling slightly embarra.s.sed. But he couldn’t deny the happiness in his heart at that moment.

“Ceremony complete!”

Leng Jiu straightened up and, without even glancing at Hua Yuxuan, returned to her seat. Then, Eunuch Qu announced the imperial edict, declaring Hua Jinzhi the heir of Lord De’s t.i.tle, which he would inherit in the future.

“Congratulations! Congratulations!”

As soon as the imperial decree was received, everyone stepped forward to offer their congratulations. Whether sincere or not, they had to follow suit with a smile—who would dare not curry favor with the foremost n.o.ble of the Fengyu Dynasty?

While the seating below was arranged as round tables, Long Yi, Hua Yuxuan, and Leng Jiu each had their own separate tables. The dishes served to them were specially prepared.

Hua Jinzhi, holding a cup, went around offering toasts, and the officials didn’t miss the opportunity to cozy up to him. While the officials went to toast Long Yi, Hua Jinzhi brought two cups over to Leng Jiu, his expression sour and full of pride, but with a hint of a smile. “You still have a conscience, after all!”

Seeing him like this, Leng Jiu smiled slightly and teased, “Our Hua Gongzi is an adult today. Has the Prince of De prepared a couple of beauties for you to enjoy the pleasures of adulthood tonight?”

Hua Jinzhi’s face flushed red, and he glared at her. “None of your business!”

He placed a cup in front of her. “You haven’t drunk with me yet!”

Leng Jiu picked up the wine jug, filled her own cup, and then filled his cup as well. Just as she was about to raise her cup, she suddenly said, “Hua Gongzi—no, Hua s.h.i.+zi—do I still need to say congratulations?”

Hua Jinzhi glared at her. “Just drink!”

After Leng Jiu finished her drink, Hua Jinzhi s.n.a.t.c.hed her cup away and left, leaving Leng Jiu speechless—it’s just a cup…

Only after Hua Jinzhi had walked some distance away did Ziyu regain her senses, surprised, and she leaned close to Leng Jiu’s ear. “Your Majesty, how could you drink from the cup handed to you by the s.h.i.+zi?”

Leng Jiu raised an eyebrow. “Why wouldn’t I?”

Ziyu became anxious. “Do you really not know? In Fengyu, men can choose a partner on the day of their coming-of-age ceremony. A special pair of cups called ‘Hehuan Cups’ are made. If a man has a woman he fancies, he gives her one of the cups. If the woman accepts and drinks from it, the two drink together, and that night, the woman will help the man complete his coming-of-age ceremony. If the woman’s status is n.o.ble, she can become his wife; if not, she may become a concubine or maid.”

Leng Jiu suddenly understood. “No wonder it felt strange—he brought me an empty cup, and it was so finely crafted!”

Ziyu was exasperated. “Your Majesty, that’s not the point!”

“I’ve already drunk from it—what now?”

Ziyu was at a loss. “But…”

“There’s no ‘but.’ Just pretend you didn’t see anything.”

Ziyu felt helpless, but she could only pretend not to have seen anything. Hopefully, since the scene was crowded, not many people noticed. But her hopes were naive; even if others hadn’t noticed, those who had been keeping an eye on the situation certainly did. For example, Gong Yuwei and Leng Yue.

When Gong Yuwei saw Leng Jiu pour and drink, he clenched his cup tightly in disbelief; Leng Yue, on the other hand, crushed his cup—whether out of anger at her actions or for another reason was unclear.

While these undercurrents swirled, the Princess of De brought out a box and opened it in front of everyone, revealing two exquisitely crafted cups, with gold bases and crystal cups.

“The princess has finally brought out the Hehuan Cups. We’ve been waiting for this for a long time!”

“Haha! Hurry and get the s.h.i.+zi over here—this is a major event for him!”

“Exactly!”

A group of young officials and n.o.blemen began to make a ruckus. Ziyu was astonished to see the pair of cups, unable to comprehend what was happening.

Leng Jiu laughed at this, knowing that Hua Jinzhi must have known he couldn’t openly give her the Hehuan Cup, so he secretly made another pair and slyly tricked her into accepting it. He must be feeling quite pleased with himself now.

Before long, Hua Jinzhi was pushed over by a few n.o.blemen. Although he was being pushed, they didn’t dare be too rough. Half-reluctant and half-willing, Hua Jinzhi was pushed in front of the Princess of De. The princess smiled, “Jin’er, feel free to choose. I won’t oppose any girl you favor!”

Amidst the crowd’s eager antic.i.p.ation, Hua Jinzhi quickly closed the box’s lid. “I don’t have anyone in mind yet. Mother, keep these cups for when I marry and bring them out on my wedding night.”

“Haha! Does the s.h.i.+zi intend to save his first time for his future wife?” Though the voice was lowered out of respect for the Emperor, many could still hear the teasing.

Hua Jinzhi glanced at Leng Jiu out of the corner of his eye and kicked the man. “Get lost!”

The coming-of-age ceremony concluded in the afternoon, and Leng Jiu returned to the palace first. Having drunk quite a bit, she decided to go back and sleep.

“Your Majesty!”

Just as Leng Jiu was about to board her carriage, Gong Yuwei’s voice rang out. She paused, not turning around. “Does the Prime Minister have something to discuss?”

“I do have something to discuss with Your Majesty. May I request a moment of your time?” Gong Yuwei’s voice was cool, devoid of emotion, as if it were a mere casual conversation.

Leng Jiu held the curtain of the carriage. “Apologies, I’m busy today…”

“Xiao Jiu!” The coolness in his voice melted into warmth, and that single word, laden with emotions, caused Leng Jiu to halt.

Two minutes later, in Su Shang Zhai, Leng Jiu chose a quiet room and had Ziyu and the others stand guard outside before entering alone. She had already changed out of her formal attire; though still in fine clothes, they no longer marked her ident.i.ty at a glance.

Leng Jiu’s gaze fell outside the window. For some reason, she found herself reluctant to look at Gong Yuwei.

Gong Yuwei poured her a cup of tea. “Have some tea. You drank quite a bit earlier.”

“No need. Say what you have to say,” Leng Jiu said softly, her eyes downcast.

Gong Yuwei’s hand paused. “Xiao Jiu wouldn’t speak to me like this.”

At that, Leng Jiu finally turned to him, her gaze heavy. “You already know who I am, so why…”

“Does it matter?” Gong Yuwei looked at her calmly, in a way she had never seen before. The coldness and shyness were gone, replaced by a calmness so unfamiliar it was almost unrecognizable. “Whether you are Xiao Jiu or the Empress Dowager, you are still you.”

Uncomfortable, Leng Jiu s.h.i.+fted the topic. “You’ve arranged a fiancée for Long Yi. Do you really have a fiancée to produce?”

“It’s not a fabrication. She truly exists. Even if she doesn’t acknowledge it, as long as I do, that’s enough,” Gong Yuwei looked directly at Leng Jiu, the meaning in his words unmistakable.

Leng Jiu couldn’t comprehend how one setback could change someone so much. The weight of his words left her hesitant to respond. After a long silence, she whispered, “What if she never acknowledges it and never agrees to marry you?”

“Then I will remain unmarried for life.”

Double Ninth Festival(Chóngyáng Jié) The **Double Ninth Festival** (重阳节, Chóngyáng Jié) is a traditional Chinese festival that occurs on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. The number nine is considered yang (阳), which is a.s.sociated with masculinity and positive energy in Chinese culture. Since the ninth day of the ninth month has a double yang, it is also called “Double Yang Festival.”

Here are some key aspects of the Double Ninth Festival:

1. **Climbing Mountains**: Traditionally, people would climb mountains or hills during the festival. This was believed to help ward off danger and bring good health. It’s also a.s.sociated with enjoying the outdoors and the autumn scenery.

2. **Chrysanthemums**: Chrysanthemums are in full bloom during this time, and the flower is a symbol of longevity. Drinking chrysanthemum wine and enjoying chrysanthemum displays are common activities.

3. **Respect for Elders**: The Double Ninth Festival is also a day to show respect for elders. Many people visit their elderly family members or hold special events to honor them.

4. **Kite Flying**: In some areas, people fly kites during the Double Ninth Festival, which is another way to enjoy the outdoors and the season.

The festival has a strong cultural significance and is often a time for family gatherings and reflection on health and longevity.