Chapter 13

Su Jingyao wore a veil as she slowly walked through the bustling, lively streets.

Her graceful figure and light steps made her stand out. This time, Miao Yun and Miao Xue followed closely by her side, while ahead of them were Jun Zechen and Ling Yue, walking intimately together like a deeply in-love couple enjoying a casual stroll.

However, as Jun Zechen walked, he couldn’t help but glance back at Su Jingyao from time to time. But with the crowded streets full of people shoulder to shoulder, it was hard to keep track of her. At a certain street corner, Su Jingyao took advantage of the dense crowd and quietly slipped away.

Even though Jun Zechen had brought a number of secret guards with him, their main duty was to protect the crown prince’s safety, not to watch Su Jingyao’s every move. After leaving unnoticed, Su Jingyao skillfully weaved through several turns and arrived at a secluded spot.

There, a seemingly ordinary carriage was parked, but inside, it was lavishly decorated. The carriage’s floor was covered with luxurious carpets, and a table held fresh, seasonal fruits that gave off a tempting fragrance.

Inside the carriage, Li Jing stood up slowly as Su Jingyao entered, then took a seat to the side. Su Jingyao glanced at him briefly, then lazily reclined on the soft couch in the center. Though her posture was relaxed, there was an indescribable elegance about her.

“Master, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess will probably continue strolling for a while. By the time they realize you’re missing and send people to find you, it will take some time. I will have someone keep a close watch on their movements. In the meantime, why not go to Mofeng Tower to rest?” Li Jing said softly.

“Hmm.”

Su Jingyao nodded slightly, then said in an indifferent tone,

“Keep a close eye on the movements of the Marquis of Wu’an’s heir.”

“Understood, Master,” Li Jing responded.

His gaze lingered on Su Jingyao, filled with complex emotions. He couldn’t understand—his master was the noble daughter of the Su family. If she hadn’t wanted to be the Crown Prince’s concubine, she surely could have found a way out. Yet, she had willingly stepped into the treacherous world of the imperial harem and became the Crown Prince’s side consort.

With her status, she could have married into a prestigious family as the main wife. Even the Crown Prince himself—she had every qualification to be his princess consort, perhaps even the future Empress of Jun Kingdom.

But according to the information he had gathered, ever since she entered the Eastern Palace, the Crown Prince had shown little affection for her and instead deeply loved the Crown Princess. Even on a significant occasion like the Flower Festival, the Crown Prince spent all his time with the Crown Princess.

Now, it was likely that even though Su Jingyao had disappeared, the Crown Prince hadn’t even noticed yet.

Li Jing was once a pitiful orphan, suffering under the cruelty of those who took him in.

Back then, he was deliberately kept in a miserable state—his body covered in wounds—so that his so-called caretakers could exploit the sympathy of wealthy families in the capital. Any meager coins they received from kind-hearted passersby were ruthlessly taken away, leaving Li Jing with nothing but pain and despair.

It was by sheer chance that Su Jingyao saved him. But since she had already intervened, she saw no reason to let the rescue go to waste—she decided to make him into someone useful to her. She spent money to hire skilled teachers for him. Li Jing quickly showed a strong interest in both business and medicine. Seeing his potential, Su Jingyao spared no effort in providing him with numerous books on these subjects.

In Jun Kingdom, rare books weren’t something that could be easily bought, even with money. Fortunately, her father was the kingdom’s highest-ranking minister. With his influence, Su Jingyao effortlessly obtained all kinds of precious books for Li Jing.

She even secretly arranged for knowledgeable mentors to teach him.

Li Jing proved to be extraordinarily intelligent. He displayed remarkable talent in commerce while also pursuing his passion for medicine with great dedication. In the end, he mastered both fields with outstanding skill. Su Jingyao trusted him completely and had no hesitation in putting him to use.

When they arrived at Mofeng Tower, Li Jing led Su Jingyao through a secret passage he had personally arranged. This hidden path led directly to the third floor of the building.

Su Jingyao stepped into her private room within Mofeng Tower. The room was lavishly decorated, with every detail exuding elegance and sophistication. A stunning landscape painting hung on the wall, so lifelike it seemed as if one could step right into it. Additionally, an intricate three-dimensional embroidery masterpiece showcased top-tier craftsmanship, adding a touch of refined artistry to the space.

Su Jingyao strolled to the inner section of the room and casually picked up a poetry collection. This book contained every poem related to flowers in Jun Kingdom, all thanks to her father, the Minister of Rites.

She had personally copied this book from her father’s study.

In Jun Kingdom, access to books and education was a privilege reserved for those from prestigious families. Some rare books were valued as highly as gold. She chose to read this poetry collection to pass the time because she would soon be participating in the traditional Flower Order game at the Flower Festival.

After all, this was an essential part of her plan.

Lazily, Su Jingyao reclined on the beauty couch, holding the book in her hands, slowly savoring its words. Even though night had fallen, the room was brightly illuminated with candlelight, leaving no trace of darkness in any corner.

Li Jing sat quietly nearby, countless thoughts swirling in his mind. He had held onto a question for a long time but never found the right moment to ask. Tonight, his master had finally left the palace, and there were no outsiders around.

After a moment of hesitation, Li Jing stood up and approached Su Jingyao. She remained focused on her book, not even glancing up, and simply said,

“You’re blocking my light.”

Before those she didn’t need to pretend for, she was completely unrestrained.

Li Jing froze for a brief moment, then suddenly knelt before her, adjusting his position so as not to cast a shadow over her book. Su Jingyao didn’t seem surprised by his action. Without lifting her gaze, she continued reading. Then, Li Jing finally asked the question that had been haunting him:

“Master, why did you marry the Crown Prince?”

Su Jingyao’s hand paused slightly. She slowly turned a page before casually responding with a question of her own.

“Then tell me, who should I have married?”

“With your status, even if not the Crown Prince, you could have become the wife of a noble lord. Why lower yourself to be the Crown Prince’s concubine?”

There was a barely noticeable urgency in Li Jing’s voice. To him, Su Jingyao was the most important person in the world. It was bad enough that she became a concubine, but the Crown Prince didn’t even cherish her! This made Li Jing’s hatred for the prince grow stronger.

If Su Jingyao wished, he would gladly sacrifice his own life to kill the Crown Prince and grant her freedom. Su Jingyao slowly closed her book and sat up. Her cold gaze met Li Jing’s eyes. She raised her delicate hand and gently traced the side of his face with the back of her fingers. The touch was light, almost affectionate. Li Jing trembled slightly, his heart stirring with a feeling he dared not name.

“Li Jing, stop entertaining foolish fantasies.”

At those words, it felt as if he had been plunged into ice. His blood ran cold. So, she had always known—known about the desire he kept buried deep in his heart, the longing he never dared to voice. Li Jing lowered his head slightly, concealing the sorrow and pain in his eyes.

“Master, I wouldn’t dare have such thoughts. I only wish for you to live a smooth, peaceful, and happy life.”

Even if the person by her side wasn’t him, it didn’t matter. He only wished for her happiness, even if it had nothing to do with him. Su Jingyao’s voice was calm and unwavering, like a still autumn lake. But her eyes gleamed with an unshakable determination.

“Li Jing, I have never desired an ordinary life. I want to reach the highest peak—to become Empress, and then Empress Dowager.”

“I don’t care if Jun Zechen loves someone else. I only care that he is the Crown Prince, that he will be the future Emperor.”

People live with purpose. A quiet, peaceful life might be a dream for many, but not for her.

She was ambitious.

She wanted to seize the moon and grasp the stars.

Li Jing slowly lifted his head and gazed at her.

Su Jingyao met his eyes with a slight smile.

“Li Jing, will you help me?”

Her face was flawless, like a divine work of art, pure and innocent.

But Li Jing knew—the heart behind that beauty was full of schemes and boundless ambition.

Even so, as long as it was something she wanted, as long as she asked, he would help her without hesitation.

“Whatever my master desires, I will help you,”

Li Jing said firmly, his eyes filled with loyalty and devotion. From the moment he was taken in by Su Jingyao at the age of five, he had already decided—his life would belong to her.

Hearing his response, Su Jingyao’s lips curled into a carefree smile, as enchanting and dangerous as a poppy blooming in the dark.

“Li Jing is the best,”

She said softly, her voice as gentle as the wind, yet it made Li Jing’s heart skip a beat. Su Jingyao lazily reclined on her chaise lounge again and resumed reading.

“Leave now. Come back once you have news on the Marquis of Wu’an’s son,”

she said, her tone indifferent once more.

“Yes,” Li Jing answered

quietly before turning to leave. Halfway through the evening, he rushed back.

“Master, the Marquis’s son, Si Nanyu, is currently on Linlang Street.”

Su Jingyao put down her book, and her maid, Miaoyun, stepped forward to help her up, carefully adjusting her dress.

“Let’s go to Linlang Street.”

A hint of excitement flickered in Su Jingyao’s voice—she was looking forward to letting Jun Zechen see her with another man. Men are foolish creatures—if something is fought over, even if it’s worthless, they suddenly find it desirable.

---

At that moment, Si Nanyu was strolling down Linlang Street with a group of young nobles and ladies. Soft lantern lights illuminated the lively streets. In the Kingdom of Jun, social restrictions between men and women were not too strict. On the Festival of Flowers, it was even acceptable for men and women to meet and fall in love.

Si Nanyu had come out tonight because his elders had arranged for these young people to socialize, hoping they would find suitable matches. After all, they were all from noble families—any marriage among them would be advantageous.

But despite the lively atmosphere, Si Nanyu felt no joy. Ever since Su Jingyao had been betrothed to the crown prince by imperial decree, it was as if his heart had been torn apart. She was the one he had set his heart on, the woman he had always wanted to marry.

If only his mother, the Marchioness of Wu’an, had proposed the marriage sooner, Su Jingyao wouldn’t have ended up as the crown prince’s concubine. She should have been his rightful wife.

Memories surged back like a tide. It was during the Festival of Flowers that he had first laid eyes on Su Jingyao—one glance was all it took to captivate him. From then on, he had done everything he could just to see her, even if only from a distance.

But the Su family had strict rules—Su Jingyao never met with men alone. So he could only wait for the Festival of Flowers each year, hoping for a chance encounter. Even if her elder brother, Su Jingxuan, was always by her side, he didn’t mind—just being near her was enough. He had planned to formally propose after her coming-of-age ceremony.

But now, it was all for nothing. His heart was filled with bitterness and regret. As he sighed and looked up absentmindedly, his gaze landed on a stunning silhouette in the crowd. Graceful and elegant, the figure carried a mysterious allure. He rubbed his eyes, doubting himself. Was he seeing things?

But the moment she lifted her head, he caught a glimpse of her profile. Even with a veil covering her face, he recognized her instantly—Su Jingyao. The nobleman beside him noticed his distraction.

“Lord Si, are you alright?”

Si Nanyu snapped out of his daze.

“I’m fine. I have something to attend to. You all enjoy yourselves.”

Without waiting for a response, he turned and strode toward her, his eyes locked onto her, afraid to lose sight of her in the crowd. Su Jingyao knew the fish had taken the bait. She led her maids, Miaoyun and Miaoxue, forward at a steady pace—neither too fast nor too slow—ensuring Si Nanyu wouldn’t lose track of her. Her graceful figure stood out amidst the crowd, as if everything around her existed only to highlight her presence. At the end of Linlang Street stood an ancient Bodhi tree, weathered by centuries. During the Festival of Flowers, people would hang colorful paper wishes on its branches—this tradition was called Shanghong.

However, to hang a wish on the tree, one had to participate in the Flower Game—a contest of poetry and wit. Only those who won three consecutive rounds were granted the privilege. Su Jingyao walked toward the Bodhi tree at an unhurried pace. She controlled the distance between her and Si Nanyu, ensuring he felt drawn in without realizing she was leading him.

By the time she arrived, a crowd had already gathered. In the center, a raised platform stood beneath the tree, where challengers competed in the Flower Game. Su Jingyao’s eyes gleamed with expectation as she watched. Just then, Si Nanyu pushed through the crowd and appeared behind her.

“Miss Su, what are you doing here?”

Hearing his familiar voice, her heart trembled slightly. She turned around slowly, feigning surprise. Her beautiful eyes flickered with momentary panic before she quickly masked it with calmness.

“Lord Si?”

“How are you able to be out here?” His voice carried concern but also puzzlement.

She understood the hidden meaning in his words. With a faint smile, she lowered her gaze.

“I came with my husband.”

Her long lashes trembled slightly as she hid the emotions in her eyes.

“Then why are you alone?”

Si Nanyu noticed her disappointment and felt a dull ache in his heart. He gently asked again.

“My husband is with my sister, and I didn’t want to disturb them, so I came out by myself,”

Su Jingyao replied softly. Her voice was quiet, with a hint of sadness, as if she felt deeply wronged. But soon, she lifted her head and looked at the stage, her face returning to an expression of eager anticipation.

“Every year, my brother takes me to admire the red leaves under the Bodhi tree. This year, I still want to hang a prayer slip to bless my father, mother, and brother.”

Her face carried a sincere smile, as if all her troubles had disappeared. But to Si nanyu, she looked even more pitiful now. Marrying into the royal palace was already a dangerous and cruel fate, and yet, her husband did not cherish her. On such an important occasion as the Flower Festival, the Crown Prince left her alone while spending time with his wife.

“Miss Su, even though your status is different now, I was a close friend of your brother. Today, I can accompany you in the flower contest and enjoy the red leaves together. What do you think?”

Si Nanyu looked at Su Jingyao with warmth and care in his eyes. Su Jingyao hesitated. She glanced at Si Nanyu, then at the stage, feeling conflicted. But in the end, she declined.

“Master Si, there’s no need. I can participate in the flower contest alone. My status is different now, and I don’t want to cause trouble for you.”

This flower contest was meant for couples or pairs to compete together. Su Jingyao would never publicly stand on stage with another man so intimately.

Meanwhile, Jun Zechen was walking through the lively flower market with Ling Yue. Ling Yue’s eyes sparkled as she admired the beautifully arranged bouquets. Anshun, their servant, followed closely behind, buying the flowers she liked.

Jun Zechen, feeling a bit bored, casually glanced behind him. However, he did not see Su Jingyao anywhere. His brows furrowed slightly, showing a hint of worry.

“Anshun, where is the second lady?”

His voice carried a trace of urgency. Anshun’s heart skipped a beat. He suddenly felt nervous. Hadn’t the side consort been following them all along? How did she suddenly disappear?

“Your Highness, I will send someone to look for her.” Anshun’s voice trembled slightly.

Just as Jun Zechen was about to lose his temper, Ling Yue’s expression changed slightly. She quickly stepped forward with a gentle smile.

“Aze, my sister said she was tired and went back to Zuixiao Pavilion. Let’s keep enjoying the market.”

Ling Yue knew well that Su Jingyao must have left quietly to avoid disturbing them. She was secretly pleased. While Su Jingyao was around, Jun Zechen kept glancing back at her, which made Ling Yue uncomfortable.

“When did she tell you?” Jun Zechen asked, still doubtful.

“Just now, when it was crowded, her maid Miaoyun came to inform me. Aze, don’t worry too much. Let’s continue shopping. I want to try on those fairy flower dresses—they look so beautiful and elegant!”

The fairy flower dresses were designed to be light and ethereal, each inspired by a different flower. Jun Zechen looked at the dresses but could not shake the thought of Su Jingyao from his mind. Still, he reluctantly trusted Ling Yue’s words and continued shopping with her.

After about half an hour, Jun Zechen started to feel tired.

“Yue’er , let’s return to Zuixiao Pavilion for a break before heading back to the palace,” he said.

Ling Yue hadn’t had enough of the festival yet. The night market would last until late, but now it was only halfway through. However, she noticed that Jun Zechen was growing weary, and they had already explored much of the street. Returning now was fine—she could freshen up and rest before heading back to the palace.

~At Zuixiao Pavilion~

Jun Zechen’s face was dark with anger. The entire pavilion seemed to be covered in ice.

“Yue’er, didn’t you say she went back early? Where is she?”

His voice was so cold that it sent chills down everyone’s spine. Ling Yue had never seen Jun Zechen so furious before. She only knew that Su Jingyao had asked her to cover for her but had no idea where she had actually gone. She assumed Su Jingyao would be back by now. After all, where else could she have gone?

“Aze, my sister said she didn’t want to disturb us, so she left alone. I just didn’t know she hadn’t returned yet…”

Ling Yue’s voice carried a hint of grievance. Jun Zechen harshly interrupted her.

“So she, a woman, has been out alone for over half an hour without any guards?”

Ling Yue flinched, startled by his reaction. She couldn’t understand why he was so worried about Su Jingyao. The capital was the safest place—what danger could there be?

“Aze, she had two maids with her. They know some martial arts, so I don’t think anything bad would happen.”

Ling Yue tried to explain. But Jun Zechen’s face remained icy. His powerful presence made everyone feel immense pressure—especially Anshun, who could sense the Crown Prince’s rage about to explode. If it weren’t the Crown Princess who made this mistake, she would have already been punished.

“Anshun, gather men and search for her,” Jun Zechen ordered, his voice filled with barely restrained fury.

“Yes, Your Highness!”

Anshun dared not delay and immediately led a group of guards to begin the search. Jun Zechen took a deep breath, trying to calm his anger. Then he turned to Ling Yue.

“Yue’er, return to the palace first. I will send someone to escort you back.”

“No, Aze. I will wait here for news. If my sister doesn’t return safely, I won’t be able to rest either,” Ling Yue said firmly.

Jun Zechen nodded and left without another word. Ling Yue stared at Jun Zechen’s departing figure, momentarily dazed. She had never seen this terrifying side of him before—his rage was almost tangible, as if he were ready to tear someone apart.

Was he really this worried about Su Jingyao?