CH 32

Abandoned Empress 07

Xin Lan didn’t expect Qu Zhi’an to pass her a note asking about her well-being, and she was somewhat surprised.

Since that day, they hadn’t contacted each other again.

For Xin Lan, she saw Qu Zhi’an as someone useful, someone who could greatly assist her and weaken the Emperor’s power. However, she couldn’t claim her as her own for the time being.

Qu Zhi’an had just stepped into the political arena as a rising star, and her foundation was still unstable. Whether she stayed or left depended entirely on the Emperor’s will. Those old-fashioned officials, especially the Xin family, definitely didn’t want her to establish herself here.

Speaking of the Xin family, Xin Lan naturally had no emotional attachment to that family, but she didn’t despise them either.

It was true that the Xin family had abandoned the original host as if she were a discarded child, but from a strategic standpoint, it was an inevitable choice.

As Xin Lan had previously said, it was reasonable but not sentimental.

Moreover, Lady Xin had entered the palace and sent money, and she also sent someone over, instructing Xin Long to listen to her. It wasn’t as if they turned a blind eye or a deaf ear.

In summary, the Xin family didn’t owe anything to the original host because in the beginning, Wu Yanqing was chosen as a husband by the original host herself, not arranged by the Xin family. With the support of the Xin family, the original host could enjoy her glory. But it was also because of this that she had to swallow her grievances disguised as love.

The complex relationship between them couldn’t be explained in just a few words, and Xin Lan didn’t consider the Xin family as her own backing.

The Xin family’s goal has never changed: to place an Empress in the harem, give birth to or raise a Prince, and then support that Prince to ascend the throne, allowing the Xin family to continue enjoying glory.

Regardless of who the Empress is, as long as they are someone who the Xin family can trust and work together with.

But based on the current situation, Xin Long doesn’t have that capability yet, and the Emperor is actively trying to impregnate higher-ranked concubines like the Imperial Consort or Xi Fei. If a child is born from them, he can find a way to prevent the child from going to Xin Long.

The Xin family may appear flourishing now, but they are actually in great danger. The Emperor has been on the throne for four years, and for the past two years, his actions have become more significant, resulting in the purge of many members of the Xin family.

A single move can affect the entire situation. This chess game doesn’t look favorable, but there must be a way to break through.

Xin Lan’s thinking is similar to that of the Xin family. She intends to restrain the Emperor and force him to abdicate. There are plenty of children within the royal family who can inherit the throne, so there is no need to worry about a lack of successors.

Their paths are the same. Xin Lan has a reason for the Xin family to support her, but relying solely on the Xin family is not enough. The Emperor is deeply wary of the Xin family. It must be someone he trusts, catching him off guard.

There is no better candidate than Qu Zhi’an, but Qu Zhi’an has no reason to join forces with Xin Lan against the Emperor. Convincing her is also a problem.

The Emperor indeed has ill intentions towards Qu Zhi’an, but because of Xin Lan’s intervention, his actions have been unsuccessful. Rebellion is a serious crime, and it’s not something that can be easily accomplished.

Even if the Xin family has the desire, they lack the courage to carry it out.

Xin Lan held an embroidered handkerchief, calculating in her mind.

Qu Zhi’an, the Xin family, the Emperor, and military power—each link in this chain was essential. If she wanted to achieve something significant, none of these factors could be missing.

Taking a deep breath, Xin Lan reminded herself not to act too hastily.

Speaking of politics, it’s more troublesome than fighting. Tactical maneuvers are much more interesting than plotting, but she has grown accustomed to it, becoming more and more familiar with the intricacies.

A soft sigh dissipated in the wind as Xin Lan touched the piece of paper, tucking it away in her embrace.

At that moment, Zero Nine alerted her in her mind.

Zero Nine: They’re targeting Ah Rou!

Xin Lan’s brows furrowed, she inquired about the whereabouts and the identity of the threat, and had Zero Nine calculate the chances of a successful rescue.

If it was someone sent by the Emperor himself, it might be difficult to find an opportunity to save Ah Rou.

From the very beginning, Xin Lan had considered this possibility, but she still watched as Ah Rou left.

The potential risks of this matter far outweigh what can be revealed.

Xin Lan speculated that the Xin family might encounter some trouble ahead, especially if Wu Yanqing acted as she anticipated.

Fortunately, things hadn’t reached the worst-case scenario. The Eunuch only instructed his subordinates to carry out the task.

With the Emperor’s approval, disposing of a palace maid discreetly within the palace was simple, but the body couldn’t be left behind.

“Si Tong, Chun Yue.”

Xin Lan called the two maidservants over and gave them an order.

After listening, both nodded and left the Jade Moon Palace.

The summer sunlight bathed the green bricks and red tiles, warming the surroundings.

Ah Rou followed the Eunuch, feeling confused. Eunuch Mei had suddenly approached her, saying that there were some things she needed to see, possibly belonging to her mistress. So she followed the person who led her.

She initially thought she was going to see her mistress and felt relieved. After all, she had hurriedly escaped last night and had been confined to a side hall after reporting the information to the Emperor. She hadn’t been able to return and see her mistress yet. At least she wanted to witness her mistress being laid to rest.

However, as she walked, she realized that this wasn’t the way back but a different and unfamiliar path.

“Eunuch, where are we going?” she asked.

“Just follow along. Do you think I’ll lead you astray?” the Eunuch replied impatiently.

Ah Rou immediately fell silent, recalling that this Eunuch was appointed by Eunuch Mei to guide her.

The Eunuch’s eyes grew sinister. It wasn’t suitable to carry the corpse out in broad daylight. Discarding it in a well would suffice.

After all, there were several secluded palaces in the imperial residence where no one resided. How many restless spirits were trapped in the depths of their wells, no one knew.

Ah Rou was brought to a place she had never been before, where weeds grew in the corners. The Eunuch standing there urged her to enter.

Hesitant, Ah Rou took two steps and wanted to turn back and inquire, but she felt a sharp pain in the back of her neck and collapsed to the ground.

The Eunuch coldly snorted upon seeing her reaction and began fetching ropes and stones.

He tied the stones to her feet and bound her hands and legs. One end of the stone had already fallen into the well. The young Eunuch pushed her into the well, and a sound of something heavy splashing into the water echoed from below. He turned and walked away.

After he left, Chun Yue and Si Tong hurriedly ran over.

Si Tong also went to find a rope. Since the rope wasn’t long enough, she had to tie one end to Chun Yue and the other end to her own waist. Chun Yue would go down to untie the ropes from Ah Rou’s body while Si Tong would pull from above.

“Will you be able to hold it? How about I go down and you stay up here?” Chunyue worriedly suggested.

“It’s alright, Sister Chun Yue. I used to do farm work back home. Don’t judge me by my appearance; I’m quite strong,” Si Tong assured her.

Chun Yue nodded, no longer hesitating, and descended into the well to rescue Ah Rou.

A putrid stench filled the air inside the well, almost overwhelming Chun Yue.

Judging by the Eunuch’s demeanor, it seemed that he had done this before. Perhaps many lives had been lost in this well.

Fortunately, the well wasn’t very deep. Chun Yue caught sight of Ah Rou’s half-submerged head on the water’s surface.

Ah Rou was initially unconscious, but the splash of water upon entering the well startled her awake. Though her mouth was gagged, she looked at the light streaming into the well, feeling a sense of despair. However, when she noticed someone preparing to rescue her, excitement surged within her.

Chun Yue helped untie the ropes from Ah Rou’s hands, and Ah Rou removed the cloth from her mouth before proceeding to free herself from the ropes around her feet.

Chun Yue went up first and then lowered the rope for them. Together, they pulled Ah Rou up.

“I’m glad you came,” Ah Rou said.

“We’ll talk about that later. Let’s hurry back for now. It wouldn’t be good if someone saw us,” Chun Yue urged.

Ah Rou nodded, and the three of them quickly returned to Jade Moon Palace.

Fortunately, the palace was a secluded Cold Palace tucked away in a corner. Otherwise, it would have been much more challenging to navigate the roads.

“Mistress, we’ve brought her back.”

“Good job bringing her back. Have her sit down and calm down.”

Xin Lan nodded. Throughout the journey, she had the system track Ah Rou’s location and speculate about their destination. Zero Nine calculated dozens of possible locations.

Xin Lan believed that if someone intended to kill, they would likely dispose of the body. An inconspicuous well seemed like the best choice. She had Zero Nine eliminate various route options, finally settling on one location and instructing Chun Yue and Si Tong to proceed there and wait.

Sure enough, it was the right place.

Chun Yue had also gotten wet from going down the well, so she told Xin Lan that she would go wash and change clothes in the back.

“Hey, Chun Yue, don’t you think our mistress is a genius? How did she know Ah Rou was there?”

“You silly girl, didn’t someone give our mistress a note?”

Chun Yue scooped water from the bucket and smiled at Si Tong as she spoke.

Si Tong nodded and stopped asking further questions.

What did this imply? It meant that there were people supporting our mistress on the Emperor’s side. How impressive!

Xin Lan was unaware of the thoughts running through the two maids’ minds. But even if they didn’t think that way, she wouldn’t explain it to them.

One advantage of being alone was that there wouldn’t be anyone prying and asking endless questions. When there were people she could rely on, she didn’t need to do everything herself, avoiding spreading herself too thin.

Xin Lan quite liked this hierarchical relationship of command, where whatever she said, those below would obey without questioning too much.

Ah Rou in front of her still appeared shaken, soaked from head to toe. She hadn’t even sat down, trembling slightly.

“Are you afraid?”

Ah Rou nodded.

“If I hadn’t received the news in time to save you today, you would be dead.”

“Thank you, Empress, for saving my life.”

Ah Rou knelt down and bowed her head.

“I only ask you one question: If you had known this morning that going out could mean you might not return, would you still have gone?”

“Yes.”

Ah Rou replied with certainty.

She had already avenged her mistress. Concubine Man had been confined, with no hope of turning the tables. Although Ah Rou couldn’t bear to see her die, she knew the Emperor would not spare her.

However, even if the Emperor knew that the deposed Empress was innocent, there was no way to go back. After all, the position of Empress already had an occupant.

Ah Rou was unaware of the power struggles within the court and the complexities surrounding them. She simply sighed with resignation.

“You can’t go back now, you are already a ‘dead person’.”

Although official records and such wouldn’t be destroyed, in the eyes of the Emperor, this person was already dead. It was certain that she couldn’t stay in the harem any longer and had to be sent away.

“I understand.”

“Do you have any relatives outside the palace?”

“No.”

“That’s good, to avoid trouble.”

Xin Lan had already made plans and stared at Ah Rou, deep in thought.

Ah Rou felt a sense of unease under her gaze and quickly pledged her loyalty.

“Empress, I was sold into the palace as a servant girl from a young age, and I have always followed my mistress wholeheartedly. Now that my mistress is gone, I have no idea where to go. Empress, you saved my life, you are my benefactor in this life. Whatever you say, I will do.”

Ah Rou knocked her head twice, expressing her loyalty. Besides serving others, she didn’t know how to do anything else. Now that the Emperor regarded her as dead, she couldn’t stay in the palace any longer. Ah Rou had no idea where to go from here.

All she knew was that the person in front of her must have a solution.

Unexplainably, she felt that this exceptionally intelligent person who had saved her twice was considered useless as a deposed Empress, but she found her reliable.

Xin Lan was also contemplating. She had a plan in mind, but she didn’t know if this servant girl was suitable for it or capable of fulfilling the task.

In that brief moment, Xin Lan considered returning to her villainous role.

Apart from a few particularly miserable individuals, every villain had hordes of subordinates. There was no need to worry about finding capable individuals in this situation.

It wasn’t for any specific reason, but simply because she couldn’t trust others.

Xin Lan’s level of trust in people was not high, regardless of who they were.

It wasn’t about a lack of security, but rather a matter of habit.

She only had absolute security in her partner, just like the mecha she used to pilot, just like Zero Nine.

“There are two paths for you to choose, but once you choose, there’s no turning back,” Xin Lan looked at her as if she wanted to peer into her heart through her eyes. “The first path is to leave the palace, leave the capital city, and go wherever you want. Don’t come back. Live your life as you wish. The second path is to work for me, but it requires courage. You mustn’t fear challenges, and you mustn’t hide anything. I demand absolute loyalty.”

“Which path will you choose?”

One path represented stability, while the other represented the unknown.

Xin Lan gave her the choice, and while Ah Rou hesitated, Xin Lan also considered.

Zero Nine had already provided information about this person. She wasn’t too young, in good health, and had a clean background. Xin Lan didn’t need her to do anything significant; she simply needed some things procured for her.

Ah Rou bit her lip, caught in a dilemma.

How should she choose…

After leaving, couldn’t she find a position as a maid in another place instead of staying in the capital city?

Although Ah Rou hadn’t experienced many storms in life, she had gone through some events. Being in the palace for a long time, she understood the dynamics of flattery, scheming, and power struggles, which made her both fearful and helpless.

Ah Rou and her mistress had similar personalities; they both desired a peaceful and stable life.

Ah Rou thought that after leaving, her age was still manageable, and she could serve others. Finding employment wouldn’t be difficult. However, leaving her mistress’s body behind in this treacherous palace made her feel inexplicably melancholic.

But when her thoughts spun in circles, all those concerns faded away when she met those pair of black eyes.

Those eyes were tranquil, as if concealing a vast starry sky—beautiful yet lonely. They made her feel immensely small and willingly surrender.

“Ah Rou is willing to follow mistress. Whatever requests you have, Ah Rou will strive to fulfill them. In this lifetime and beyond, I will never waver in loyalty.”

Ah Rou didn’t know how this decision would change her, but she had a feeling that she would regret it if she didn’t make this choice.

“Good. Tonight, I will take you out of the palace and settle you somewhere first. Then, I will let you know what you need to do.”

Ah Rou nodded, but this time, instead of bowing her head, she performed a deep kneeling ceremony.

Xin Lan sat in a chair, her fingers touching the porcelain teacup. She lifted the lid and took a leisurely sip.

Xin Lan asked Ah Rou to leave and instructed her to find Chun Yue to change into a new set of clothes.

She set down the empty cup and looked around the vacant room.

Ancient times were truly boring, she thought.

Attending classes from the previous world was more interesting. At least she could listen to some knowledge. As long as she could absorb it, it was quite enjoyable.

Here, all she could do was stare into space.

She had finished watching the ridiculous drama that Zero Nine recommended and was now looking for other entertaining TV shows.

Xin Lan was merely trying to pass the time, but even that amusement had run dry.

She felt a sense of boredom, a rare hint of loneliness.

Xin Lan thought that next time she could have Zero Nine buy some books and store them in the system space. That way, she could read them when she was bored.

If there were VR games available, that would be even better. Xin Lan enjoyed competitive games.

The more she pondered, the more bored she became. Xin Lan stood up from her chair.

When Xin Lan saved Ah Ruo, she did so with the mindset of “do good deeds and don’t ask for rewards.” After all, she didn’t think it would have any impact on her arrangements. But later, she realized that Ah Ruo was a useful person.

Zero Nine: Host, are you bored?

Xin Lan: A bit. Why? Is there something interesting?

Zero Nine: Nothing specific, but I can chat with the host.

Xin Lan: Like what?

Zero Nine: Gossip, for example, two hosts falling in love, and then one of them cheating while on a mission.

Xin Lan: Tsk, that’s unfortunate.

Zero Nine: What’s even worse is that the person being cheated on doesn’t even know. After all, the hosts rarely do missions in the same world. Who would know about infidelity in the mission world?

Xin Lan: How do you know then?

Xin Lan became slightly interested. It made sense, cheating in a mission world wouldn’t affect her real physical body. She could simply let the memories fade away, without worrying about calling out someone else’s name while rolling in bed with her loved one.

Zero Nine: It’s what the host system said, posted on the system forum. Anyway, I don’t know who the real person is. I’m still reading that thread. It seems like there have been multiple instances of infidelity. I truly feel sorry for the partner of that host.

Xin Lan: Cheated and panicked.

Zero Nine: Why do some people claim to be in love but can betray others and pretend nothing happened?

Setting aside these feudal discussions, Zero Nine has indeed encountered many individuals similar to that unnamed host. It makes one wonder how people can possess such shamelessness. Yet, surprisingly, straightforward individuals are rare, and there are still those who forgive.

Zero Nine arrived at this profound theory because of her first host, who was both resurrected and scum. However, all the men she cheated on were willing to take over one after another.

Xin Lan: People come in a thousand variations, and the world is full of complexities.

Xin Lan’s character is incapable of such actions. One should always be straightforward.

Zero Nine: Host, do you think those people should be forgiven?

Xin Lan: If forgiveness feels right, then forgive. Everyone must decide for themselves what is worth it and what is not.

Zero Nine: But what if it were you…

Xin Lan: Would I give them that chance?

Zero Nine: Let’s assume, just hypothetically.

Xin Lan: Playing tricks won’t be so easy. Unless they speak up, my name isn’t Xin.

For some reason, Qu Zhi’an at home suddenly sneezed.

Abandoned Empress 07

She rubbed her nose and felt a bit relieved.

Thinking about the note she sent, she wondered if Miss Xin had received it, and if she knew it was from her.

She should probably know that she was the one who delivered the message, right?

She was so clever, she should find a way to send it back to her.

Qu Zhi’an paced around the room, unsure if that would actually happen. What if the other person didn’t think it was necessary?

It’s hard to say, that person gave her such mixed feelings.

She wanted to get closer, but there wasn’t a convincing reason in her heart to persuade herself to do so.

It felt like a prickly flower, and if she approached forcefully, she might get pricked. She needed to find the right balance between advancing and retreating.

Qu Zhi’an poured herself a glass of cold tea to cool down and decided to leave the courtyard.

Even though she was now an official in government service, she still had her old habits. Whenever she arrived at a place, she liked to get a grasp of the situation.

For example, the local customs, the climate, the environment, what sells well, and if one wants to engage in business, which aspect would be a good starting point?

After strolling around for the entire afternoon and returning home, Qu Zhi’an found herself laughing at her own recurring problem.

So, when night fell and she saw the person knocking on her door, she was still pondering if she had walked too much in the afternoon, exhausting herself to the point of hallucination.

“Miss Xin!”

Qu Zhi’an’s voice carried surprise, but in the next moment, she realized that this person should absolutely not be appearing here at this time.

“What’s wrong? Not happy to see me?”

The visitor was none other than Xin Lan, who had come out with Ah Rou. In order to discuss matters early and not disturb others’ sweet dreams, Xin Lan had decided not to come in the middle of the night this time.

Ah Rou followed behind her, looking dazed. She only knew that a moment ago she was still in the Jade Moon Palace, and for some reason, she fainted and just woke up when her mistress called her.

In an instant, they went from inside the palace to outside. Ah Rou had no idea how her mistress managed it, but her conviction grew stronger that following her mistress would never be wrong.

Could it be that her mistress possessed some kind of Immortal technique? Otherwise, how could she appear like this?

In Ah Rou’s heart, that towering red wall was an insurmountable chasm, completely separating the outside world from this place.

To go outside, one must have a waist tag, and since Ah Rou followed her mistress into the palace, she had never set foot outside.

“How could I not be happy to see you? Please come in and have a seat.”

As Qu Zhi’an closed the door, she took a quick look around, fearing that someone might be following Xin Lan. Xin Lan’s visit this time was definitely a secret affair, and no matter how you looked at it, it couldn’t be done openly.

“This small courtyard of yours is quite nice, Dàren1.”

“It’s just a humble abode. You flatter me, Miss. Please have a seat, I’ll pour some tea for you.”

“No need to be polite, Ah Rou. You can go elsewhere for now. This Master and I have some matters to discuss.”

Ah Rou didn’t glance around and nodded before stepping out.

Qu Zhi’an only now noticed that this maid seemed familiar. Wasn’t she the palace maid who knelt before the Emperor in the morning, discussing matters? Why would she be with Xin Lan?

“Do you know her?”

Xin Lan noticed that Qu Zhi’an’s expression was different and inquired about it.

“We just had a brief encounter. When I finished attending the morning court today, she was still blocking the Emperor’s path.”

“I only have a vague understanding.”

“Didn’t you send me a message, Dàren? Thank you for your thoughtfulness. Since you asked how I’ve been lately, I’ll tell you that I’ve been doing well.”

Qu Zhi’an smiled and nodded, just as Xin Lan didn’t mention her identity as a woman. She pretended not to be curious about how Xin Lan managed to come out.

In reality, her heart was itching with curiosity about how Xin Lan managed to come out.

It’s probably through the channels of the Xin family. Judging from the fact that she brought someone along, her visit couldn’t possibly be just to answer the questions on her note.

“Good to hear that you’re doing well.”

“Something did happen in the palace, but it’s not a big deal.”

Xin Lan fearlessly shared the details of the incident with Qu Zhi’an, of course omitting any embellishments or exaggerations.

“Even though Miss resides in a secluded place, the flow of information is equally well-informed.”

Qu Zhi’an sighed. In truth, she wasn’t interested in the struggles within the palace. What interested her was the significance behind the situation with Concubine Man.

At the same time, she couldn’t help but lament that when people turn cruel, they truly become like demons.

Who could have imagined that such a delicate and charming woman could commit such brutal acts?

What astonished her even more was the conspiracy that Concubine Man had orchestrated behind the scenes.

What puzzled Qu Zhi’an was that Concubine Man had actually managed to ensnare an official. It was truly bewildering how clueless some people in the court could be.

However, Qu Zhi’an’s remark about being well-informed carried a double entendre. It was surprising that Xin Lan could accurately and flawlessly know her address even within the depths of the palace. The web of influence truly was immensely powerful.

“The main trouble is when it becomes related to oneself; it cannot be resolved without taking action.”

“Did Miss have any other purpose for this visit?”

“Has the Emperor granted you a mansion?”

“Yes, but it’s currently undergoing renovations.”

“Then, is this courtyard convenient for accommodating someone?”

“Logically speaking, that palace maid should have merited it. How could it be?”

“The scandals of the Imperial family, can others really come to know about them? Perhaps that’s how the Emperor thinks. After all, when it comes to matters concerning his heirs, only the dead can forever keep a secret.”

Qu Zhi’an furrowed her brows slightly. She still wasn’t accustomed to the methods of these influential families.

“Daren, you don’t need to worry. We’re not staying here for free either. Once we find another place to rent, we’ll move out.”

“Miss, there’s no need to be so polite. Given our relationship, there’s no need for such formalities.”

“What relationship do we have?”

Xin Lan smiled and asked in return.

She was somewhat surprised that this person was becoming so familiar.

Of course, it couldn’t be considered familiarity. After all, she could be regarded as someone who saved her once. She had expected this person to keep her at a distance or remain cautious. However, the act of passing her the note indicated that she was actually someone with a strong sense of justice, kindness, and a sense of loyalty.

Setting aside everything else, she found this person quite interesting.

However, upon reflecting on the brief descriptions of this person in the story, it wasn’t surprising that she reacted this way.

A girl who dared to escape from her family in this environment and resist the system demonstrated great courage. Her outstanding business skills indicated vision and intelligence. The fact that she could easily let go of her business and go out with money to enjoy herself and make friends showed that she was a straightforward and refreshing person. She had her own opinions and insights on national affairs and later achieved success. She was extraordinary, truly extraordinary.

The more Xin Lan thought about Qu Zhi’an’s qualities, the more she wanted to have this person on her side and use her.

However, how to win her over was still a question that required careful consideration.

“I suppose we can consider ourselves friends now, right?”

After all, they shared a common secret and had experienced life-and-death situations together. Qu Zhi’an admired Xin Lan greatly, and if this person could be free-spirited, she could certainly accomplish great things.

“I never expected Daren to consider me a friend. I’m truly touched.”

“Miss, you’re teasing me with those words. I originally intended to leave freely, but then I thought there was no need, especially since I have the intention to leave but fear that person wouldn’t agree.”

The last sentence made Qu Zhi’an feel both embarrassed and uncomfortable, as if she was praising herself, but in reality, she sincerely expressed her dilemma.

“So, if you become powerful enough that he can’t threaten your presence, wouldn’t that be better?”

Xin Lan smiled lightly, a faint smile appearing on her delicate face, making her look even more exquisite.

Qu Zhi’an was startled, she looked at Xin Lan intently, only to find that the trace of a smile had vanished, as if it had never appeared on her face.

What was this implying?

Just like the Xin family, becoming so powerful that the Emperor couldn’t control her comings and goings?

“Are you planning to keep her like this forever?”

Qu Zhi’an thought it was unlikely, she had a feeling that Xin Lan must have some other purpose.

It wasn’t that Qu Zhi’an believed Xin Lan wouldn’t perform random acts of kindness, but she felt it wouldn’t be that simple, to be so kind-hearted as to keep a servant girl by her side.

“Just a servant girl, keeping her won’t cause any major problems. But you also know that a discarded Empress has no say in the harem. If she ever gets headaches or fevers, the Imperial Physician would never come. So, I’m considering whether to let this servant girl open a herbal medicine shop, hire a doctor, and learn about medicinal principles.”

When intelligent people converse, there’s no need to exert too much effort or delve too deeply.

“If you want to open a shop, why not come to me? I may not be of much help with other matters, but this shouldn’t be a problem.”

Qu Zhi’an became energized. She had been observing these matters all afternoon, and if she could be of assistance to someone, it would be excellent.

“In that case, thank you very much for your help, Daren. I feel relieved knowing that this servant girl will have a safe place to stay. However, she has no experience in business, so I hope you will bear with her in this matter. If you think she lacks talent, please let me know, and I’ll come up with a solution.”

Whether Ah Rou had talent or not was not important. What mattered was that Xin Lan needed a medicine shop to conduct her affairs.

“Very well, there’s no need for you to address me as ‘Daren.’ It feels strange and unfamiliar.”

In reality, they had only met for the second time, but considering the significant event they had experienced together, their identities were still quite unique.

They hadn’t yet reached the stage of “meeting you for the first time feels like reuniting with an old friend,” but Qu Zhi’an felt an instant connection with Xin Lan.

Seeing this person brought her joy, allowing her to overlook all of her background and peculiarities.

Even if she was a discarded Empress or a member of the Xin family, during their conversation, she was simply Miss Xin.

“What’s the point of that? Zhi’an? If someone overhears it, they’ll immediately guess it’s you.”

“Then call me by my nickname, Yan Yan. That’s how my family addresses me.”

“Yan?”

“Smoke, like the dispersing mist in the breeze.”

Qu Zhi’an pursed her lips. These were the words Xin Lan had used to introduce herself.

Clearly, Xin Lan remembered too. They locked eyes and smiled at each other.

That smile spread in her eyes, illuminating her obsidian-like irises, and when her raven-colored eyelashes fluttered lightly, it seemed as though a vast starry sky unfolded.

Suddenly, Qu Zhi’an recalled a line of poetry, feeling as if the countless stars were pressing before her, and her joy made her realize her own insignificance.

Unaware of the sky after getting drunk on the water, a ship full of clear dreams weighing down the starry river.

“Alright, then I’ll call you Yan Yan.”

Xin Lan nodded, realizing that the nickname was insignificant as long as it was this person. They reached a consensus regarding the matter of the medicinal herb shop.

“I may not have brought enough silver coins with me today. I only brought a portion. I’ll add the rest tomorrow,” Xin Lan said.

“No worries, I’ll choose the items for you first, and you can settle the payment later,” replied Qu Zhi’an.

Qu Zhi’an didn’t place much importance on money matters since she was already wealthy.

After scanning the money, Zero Nine confirmed that Qu Zhi’an wouldn’t be concerned about the amount. As long as the debt was repaid, it would suffice.

Xin Lan took out the money she had brought and placed it in Qu Zhi’an’s hand.

When their fingers touched, Xin Lan inexplicably felt her heart skip a beat.

Unaware of Qu Zhi’an’s reaction, Xin Lan withdrew her hand.

Qu Zhi’an’s background was actually quite remarkable. Although not from an aristocratic family, her household was wealthy enough to rival a country.

These four words were not to be taken lightly, as the business of the Qu family spanned across the entire Wu Kingdom, reaching even into Daqing.

So, Qu Zhi’an is wealthy, truly exceptionally wealthy.

Moreover, she’s not just some idle young miss who lives off her family’s wealth; she has a remarkable ability to make money grow.

Based on what Qu Zhi’an said about helping with the medicinal herb shop, Xin Lan knew that this matter was secure.

“It seems that Miss Xin came prepared,” Qu Zhi’an remarked as she received the money. Xin Lan smiled in response without denying it.

Qu Zhi’an waited for Xin Lan to say, “Calling me ‘Miss’ feels too distant, why not call me Lan’er?” But after waiting for a while, Xin Lan didn’t utter those words.

There was a slight trace of disappointment in Qu Zhi’an’s heart, but she didn’t show it.

“What do you think? If the Emperor knew how well we get along, would he be furious?”

The Emperor had shown interest in Qu Zhi’an, considering her as one of his own. Additionally, the Emperor had a particular disdain for the Xin family and disliked Xin Lan. If he were to see Xin Lan and Qu Zhi’an getting along, it would surely infuriate him.

“Who cares about him.”

Qu Zhi’an pursed her lips, the Emperor had no right to dictate her personal relationships. It was her freedom to choose the kind of people she wanted to be friends with, and the Emperor had no say in that matter.

Qu Zhi’an couldn’t deny that the actions of the Xin family were related to Xin Lan. The facts were right there, mutually beneficial. One was rising steadily while the other felt overshadowed by the towering tree, so cutting down the obstructing tree wasn’t unjustifiable.

It was Xin Lan’s actions towards Qu Zhi’an that went too far.

The mere thought of it made Qu Zhi’an angry, but getting angry wouldn’t accomplish anything.

“Calling you ‘Yan Yan’ does give off a more delicate impression. How do you usually speak?”

There is a certain distinction between a female voice and a male voice. Although some people’s voices are androgynous, generally only Eunuchs speak with a touch of softness.

Qu Zhi’an lightly cleared her throat, signaling a change in her tone.

“This is how I usually speak in daily life. Pay close attention, and no one will detect anything. It’s inconvenient for a woman to be too conspicuous in her appearance.”

Qu Zhi’an’s voice became deeper, devoid of any femininity. Based on her voice alone, one would perceive her as a gentle gentleman.

“You’re quite skilled.”

Xin Lan clapped her hands, and Qu Zhi’an took a breath, changing her tone of voice.

Qu Zhi’an had trained herself in this skill. At first, it was easy to be recognized, but now she had perfected it. From her mannerisms to her voice, she could easily pass as an elegant gentleman, a refined young man, or even a scholarly type.

Xin Lan didn’t engage in much conversation with Qu Zhi’an and went outside to talk to Ah Rou, who was standing there.

The conversation mainly revolved around Ah Rou learning from Qu Zhi’an and emphasizing the importance of following her instructions.

Ah Rou nodded in response, but deep down, she felt a bit anxious.

“Mistress, shall I stay here? How can I contact you? When will I see you again?”

Ah Rou hadn’t been outside the palace for two or three years. Even before Concubine Liu entered the palace, she rarely had the chance to go out. Occasionally going out for a stroll brought her immense joy. Now, being left alone outside with a stranger, she couldn’t help but feel a bit timid.

“Ah Rou, have you forgotten what I told you before?”

Courage was essential, and she shouldn’t be afraid of any situation.

“I remember, I will learn well and perform my duties diligently, waiting for your return, Mistress.”

Ah Rou took a deep breath and looked into Xin Lan’s eyes.

“Very well, from now on, you don’t have to refer to yourself as a servant here. It’s better to avoid raising suspicion.”

“Yes, I under…stand.”

Ah Rou hesitated, her face showing signs of wanting to say something but holding back.

“If there’s something, feel free to speak.”

“Can I go back to visit my mistress? I don’t know when she was buried or where she was laid to rest…”

“You can’t go back anymore. If there’s any news, I will inform you.”

“Thank you, Mistress.”

Ah Rou expressed her gratitude.

As a low-ranking concubine, it was impossible for her to enter the imperial tomb, and considering the circumstances of her Mistress’ death… the more Ah Rou thought about it, the more resentment grew in her heart.

“I’m leaving now, I’ll come back tomorrow.”

“Take care, Mistress.”

Xin Lan’s figure dissipated into the darkness of the night, and Ah Rou closed the door and bolted it.

“Daren, where will I be staying?”

“You can sleep in the east wing. It has been cleaned earlier, and you can take the bedding from the cabinet to sleep.”

“Thank you, Daren. Shall I attend to you when you wake up tomorrow?”

“No need.”

Ah Rou nodded silently and returned to her room.

Before drifting off to sleep, her thoughts revolved around whether her Mistress would blame her for revealing the forced circumstances. That was probably the last thing her Mistress would want the Emperor to know.

If she were blamed, being scolded in a dream would be welcomed.

She woke up in a daze, rubbing her forehead. In her dream last night, it involved unrelated people, but strangely, she didn’t dream of her Mistress.

Outside, daylight had already arrived. As she pushed open the door, she heard the Master reading.

“I am currently ill, my soul in turmoil, only to dream of idle individuals and not of you.”

She hadn’t been sick, so why did she dream of idle individuals as well?