“The two of you have performed meritorious service by eliminating the rebel faction. You shall be rewarded according to your contributions.” Yuancheng Emperor returned to the capital yesterday in the afternoon. This morning, he praised greatly the fifth prince and the sixth prince in the court. Clearly, he was very satisfied with the two’s performance. 

Mu Xi Yao stiffly walked a few steps. As soon as she turned around, she saw that apart from Mo Lan, Hui Lan, and momo, there were six more maidservants closely following behind her. This arrangement made Mu Xi Yao call to mind the scene of consorts in the palace going on an outing. 

“Cefei’s shu sister has put cefei in danger this time. Dos cefei wish to put in a good word for her?” Zhong Zheng Ming leaned against the wall and waited for Mu Xi Yao’s reply. 

“Your Highness, the gatekeeper has received a secret letter sent by a little girl. She specifically asked it to be delivered to the hands of Danruo Courtyard’s steward, claiming that she had an urgent matter to report.” 

“Hey, take the meal.” A tall man threw a bowl of cooked rice in front of Mu Xi Yao. Under his toss, the shabby pottery bowl bounced two circles before finally stopping. Mu Xi Yao narrowed her eyes and sized up the food on the table. Subsequently, she looked up at the coming person while sitting motionlessly. 

“Your Highness, Mu shufei has been found. She was knocked out in the water pavilion by the lotus pond.” Yan Cheng Zhou has mobilized the guards. On the grounds of arresting the rebellious faction, he searched every inch of the prince’s residence again and again. Yet, he found no trace of cefei. 

The banquet went on until the hour of Xu¹. Mu Xi Yao could hardly sit still. She gave Zhong Zheng Lin notice and retreated first along with her people. 

“Elder sister.” Mu Xi Ting, taking along Rui Zhu, caught up with Mu Xi Yao. She said a few words at her ear. Her expression seemed a bit awkward. 

A surprise flashed in Mu Xi Yao’s eyes. She had Zhao momo take others back and only called Mo Lan to attend to her. She brought Mu Xi Ting and made a detour halfway. 

At nightfall, the family banquet. 

The crown prince and Zhong Zheng Lin took seats of the host and guest of honor respectively; one being the honored guest and the other the lord of the house. On the outside, the two got along well. Yet, who didn’t know that this scene of affectionate brotherhood was merely an act which served to make the memorial that would be sent to the table of Yuancheng Emperor look better? 

“Mother.” Halfway through the opera play, Mu Xi Yao gave prior notice to the fourth princess consort and then went downstairs to look for lady Yu to reassure her. 

Mu Xi Yao frowned. Pointing at her and asking her questions at this time, wasn’t it the same as informing everyone that all of her criticism and dissatisfaction was directed at her, who was the concubine?