TPMCS(rebirth) 23 - I have always wanted to marry Huo Jue

When Jiang Li returned to the tavern, Yang Huiniang and Wei Huan were sitting in the flower hall, chatting amiably.  

Wei Huan wore a frost-colored short jacket with a deep blue pleated skirt, draped with a light green gauze half-sleeve. Her jade-white fingers held a gray teacup as she listened to Yang Huiniang with a warm smile.  

When Jiang Li entered, both women turned to look at her. Wei Huan’s almond-shaped eyes brightened slightly as she called out affectionately, "A Li."  

Jiang Li knew she had come to propose the marriage, and though she felt a little shy, she smiled and responded, "Sister Wei." Then, after a pause, she greeted Nanny Tong beside Wei Huan as well.  

Seeing how familiar Jiang Li was with them, Yang Huiniang didn’t need to guess—her daughter had clearly met Huo Jue’s sister before.  

She gave Jiang Li a long look and said, "I still have some things to discuss with Madam Wei. Go change your clothes first."  

Jiang Li understood her mother was sending her away but didn’t protest. As she left, however, she couldn’t resist stealing another glance at Wei Huan—only to meet her amused gaze.  

Blushing, Jiang Li nodded at Wei Huan and retreated to her room.  

Wei Huan stayed for another half hour before leaving. As she stepped out of the tavern, she saw Huo Jue waiting by the carriage.  

"Let’s talk inside," she said with a smile.  

Once the three of them were seated and the carriage had pulled away from Zhu Fu Street, Wei Huan remembered that today was the day the exam results were announced.  

"How did you do in the academy exams?" she asked.  

Huo Jue replied calmly, "First place."  

Wei Huan nodded, unsurprised, as if she had expected nothing less.  

"I spoke with Madam Yang about our intentions to propose marriage to A Li, but she seems reluctant to agree. She didn’t outright refuse, though—just said A Li is still young, having just come of age, and isn’t ready to be betrothed yet."  

Huo Jue remained unperturbed, his gaze drifting to the corner of the Zhang family’s roof outside the window. "It’s fine. In time, Aunt Yang may change her mind."  

---  

Back in the tavern, Jiang Li hurried out of her room as soon as Wei Huan left, helping her mother clean up the tea set while discreetly studying her expression.  

"Mother, what did Sister Wei talk to you about?"  

Yang Huiniang shot her a sidelong glance, noting the faint pink on her daughter’s cheeks. Irritated, she said, "You don’t know? You’re already calling her ‘sister.’ Can’t you guess why she came?"  

Jiang Li avoided her mother’s gaze and mumbled, "I’ve only met Sister Wei once, but she’s very kind. The first time we met, she gave me this bracelet."  

She pulled up her sleeve to show Yang Huiniang the mutton-fat jade bracelet.  

In truth, Wei Huan had not only given her the bracelet but also a full set of blue jade hair ornaments. However, the gift had been too extravagant, and Jiang Li had refused it. Wei Huan hadn’t pressed the matter, simply saying she would leave the set in the eastern courtyard of Ruyi Garden—the residence reserved for Huo Jue, meant for his future marriage.  

The thought made Jiang Li’s face grow warm again.  

Yang Huiniang had to admit that Madam Wei was indeed refined—so much so that she could pass for a noblewoman from the palace.  

The siblings clearly came from an illustrious background, though she had no idea which noble family they belonged to. Recalling Huo Jue’s injuries when he first arrived on Zhu Fu Street, Yang Huiniang grew even more reluctant to marry her daughter to him.  

The high-born families were rife with scheming and intrigue—who knew what dangers A Li might be dragged into?  

Seeing her mother’s reluctance to discuss it further, Jiang Li bit her lip and said, "Mother... if Sister Wei came to propose marriage, please agree. You know I’ve always wanted to marry Huo Jue."  

Yang Huiniang’s eyes widened, and she jabbed Jiang Li’s forehead. "You just came of age, and you’re already in such a hurry to marry? Have you no shame?"  

Jiang Li rubbed her forehead and explained softly, "I’m not in a hurry to marry just anyone—only Huo Jue. Whether it’s sooner or later doesn’t matter, as long as it’s him. Mother, Huo Jue treats me well, and Sister Wei does too. If I marry him, I’ll have two more people who care for me."  

Yang Huiniang stared at her for a long moment before finally sighing. "Stay home these next few days and focus on brewing the wine. No running around."  

Without waiting for Jiang Li’s response, she left the flower hall.  

For the next few days, Yang Huiniang kept a close watch on Jiang Li, forcing her to stay home. If she wanted to speak with Huo Jue, she had to secretly ask Jiang Ling to pass messages for her.  

---  

One morning, Yang Huiniang had just returned from buying pork at the butcher’s when she saw a middle-aged woman in an autumn-colored horse-face skirt waiting at the tavern entrance.  

Recognizing her as Nanny Qian from the Zhang residence, Yang Huiniang assumed she had come to buy wine and quickly stepped forward. "Nanny Qian, here for some wine?"  

Nanny Qian shook her head with a smile. "Not today. I’ve come on behalf of our old madam to discuss Miss A Li’s marriage prospects."  

Yang Huiniang’s heart sank, but she maintained a polite smile. "Please, come inside."  

When Jiang Li emerged from her room and saw Nanny Qian in the courtyard, she blinked in surprise. "Nanny Qian, what brings you here? Does the old madam want some pastries?"  

Nanny Qian smiled. "I’ve come to discuss something with your mother."  

Jiang Li was puzzled—what business could her mother possibly have with Nanny Qian?—but she simply curtsied and went to prepare tea.  

Once the tea was served, Yang Huiniang waved her off. "Go tally yesterday’s accounts. Don’t disturb us."  

---  

Jiang Li sat with one hand propping her chin, the other absently flicking the abacus beads, her mind restless.  

By the time she finished the ledger, the door curtain rustled, and Yang Huiniang and Nanny Qian stepped out.  

Nanny Qian’s smile was noticeably cooler than when she had arrived.  

She looked at Yang Huiniang meaningfully. "Madam Yang, this is an opportunity many would kill for. Think carefully! Our Zhang family is one of the most prominent households in Tong’an. A widow running a tavern alone isn’t easy—with our backing, you’ll never have to worry about facing troubles alone. Doesn’t that sound reasonable?"  

Having made her point, Nanny Qian left without another word. As she stepped out, she cast a glance at Jiang Li before boarding her carriage and departing.  

Yang Huiniang’s face cycled through shades of pale and red.  

Jiang Li quickly set aside the abacus and went to soothe her. "Mother, what did Nanny Qian say?"  

Yang Huiniang’s eyes reddened. The memory of Nanny Qian’s words choked her with anger.  

Who dared to pressure someone into sending their daughter as a concubine? All that talk about "backing" was just a veiled threat—if she refused, the tavern would face trouble.  

Well, so be it! Yang Huiniang would never sell her daughter for profit!  

Taking a deep breath, she suppressed her anger and said to Jiang Li, "Don’t go to the Zhang residence for a while. Whether it’s delivering wine or pastries, send the servants instead."  

Jiang Li agreed obediently, though worry flickered in her eyes. "Understood, Mother."  

---  

Yang Huiniang left in a hurry.  

When she arrived at Wei Huan’s residence, the latter was painting in her room. Startled by the maid’s announcement that Madam Yang of the tavern had come, Wei Huan set down her brush.  

Huo Jue had said Aunt Yang would change her mind eventually—she just hadn’t expected it to happen so soon.  

"Go to the academy with Nanny Tong," she instructed the maid. "Tell the young master to return at once. Say there’s urgent family business."  

Once the maid left, Wei Huan changed into a simple, elegant dress and headed to the main hall.  

Yang Huiniang was already there, lost in thought over a cup of tea, her expression grave.  

"Madam Yang," Wei Huan greeted warmly, "my apologies for keeping you waiting."  

Yang Huiniang stood quickly. "No, I’m the one imposing."  

Never one to beat around the bush, she got straight to the point. "I came to ask—does your earlier proposal still stand?"  

Wei Huan nodded. "Of course. If you agree, we can proceed with the betrothal at any time. Whatever conditions you have, name them. A Jue and I will do our best to meet them."  

In that exchange, Wei Huan had already shifted to calling her "Aunt Yang," aligning herself with Huo Jue.  

Yang Huiniang met her gaze squarely. "I won’t hide the truth. If Huo Jue marries A Li, he may offend the Zhang family. Knowing that, do you still wish to proceed?"  

Wei Huan instantly grasped the situation—the Zhang family must have made some move, prompting Yang Huiniang’s change of heart.  

"Of course we do. You needn’t worry, Aunt Yang. Even if we offend the Zhang family, it’s of no consequence."  

Her voice was calm, her demeanor unshaken—as if the Zhang family meant nothing to her.  

Yang Huiniang’s frantic heartbeat inexplicably steadied.  

She sat back down, then asked another question. "I won’t pry into Huo Jue’s past. But I need to know—if A Li marries him, can he guarantee her safety? That she won’t be dragged into some inexplicable conflict?"  

Wei Huan’s gaze flickered slightly. Before she could answer, the sound of firm footsteps approached.  

Huo Jue strode into the hall.  

Wei Huan smiled. "A Jue is here. Why don’t you ask him yourself?"

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TPMCS(rebirth) 22 - Propose marriage

The day after Jiang Li's coming-of-age ceremony, she received a gift from the steward of the Zhang family. She hadn’t expected that Madam Chen would still remember her ceremony, and the gesture left her both surprised and deeply touched. Even Yang Hui Niang was taken aback.

"If it’s Madam Chen’s kind gesture, you should accept it. This afternoon, find some time to visit the Zhang residence and express your gratitude," Yang Hui Niang said, already preparing a return gift for Madam Chen. As she turned, she noticed the wooden hairpin in Jiang Li’s hair and raised an eyebrow. "Did Ying Ying give you that hairpin?"

Jiang Li’s heart skipped a beat, and she quickly averted her eyes, deflecting the question. "Ah, Mother, do you think this hairpin looks nice?"

Yang Hui Niang’s attention was successfully diverted, and she examined the hairpin closely. Zhang Ying Ying’s family owned a jewelry shop that specialized in gold ornaments, so Yang Hui Niang had expected a gold hairpin. Instead, this was a finely crafted wooden hairpin made of high-quality sandalwood, with delicate and elegant carvings. Though understated, it exuded a refined charm, surpassing the appeal of ordinary gold hairpins.

"It’s beautiful. Ying Ying put a lot of thought into this gift. For her coming-of-age ceremony next month, you must prepare something equally thoughtful," Yang Hui Niang said.

Relieved that her mother hadn’t suspected anything, Jiang Li nodded. "I will, Mother."

In the afternoon, after finishing her work at the tavern, Jiang Li took the return gift prepared by Yang Hui Niang and headed to the Zhang residence. Upon arrival, she learned that Madam Chen and the lady of the house had gone to Wenchang Temple to pray for the eldest son, Zhang Heng, who was about to take the provincial exams.

The exams were just a few days away, and all the scholars who had passed the preliminary exams would head to the examination hall in Changzhou. Those who succeeded would earn the title of *xiucai* (scholar) and qualify for the autumn imperial exams in August.

Since Madam Chen wasn’t home, Jiang Li left the gift with Bi Hong.

Bi Hong, sharp-eyed as ever, noticed the new hairpin in Jiang Li’s hair and leaned in to read the characters engraved on it. "Jing... Jia? What does that mean?"

Jiang Li smiled slightly, feeling a bit self-conscious. "It’s... my courtesy name, taken from a line of poetry."

"Courtesy name?" Bi Hong’s eyes widened. It was uncommon for girls from ordinary families to have courtesy names; such traditions were usually reserved for noblewomen.

Bi Hong couldn’t help but think of the young man with the demeanor of a gentle breeze and bright moon. Teasingly, she asked, "I don’t even know which poem these characters are from. Be honest with me, did Huo Jue give you this name?"

Jiang Li hadn’t expected Bi Hong to guess it was Huo Jue’s doing. Her ears turned red, and she nodded awkwardly. "Yes, it was him."

"Huo Jue is taking the provincial exams in a few days, isn’t he? How thoughtful of him to remember your coming-of-age ceremony even with the exams approaching," Bi Hong teased, making Jiang Li blush even more.

The provincial exams were only four days away, and the examination hall was in Changzhou, a day’s journey by carriage. Since the inns near the examination hall were always fully booked during this time, most scholars left early to secure accommodations.

Huo Jue had indeed delayed his departure until this morning to attend Jiang Li’s ceremony.

Bi Hong glanced at Jiang Li’s radiant face, feeling a pang of envy. But then she remembered that once the eldest son, Zhang Heng, passed the exams, Madam Chen would arrange for a concubine to accompany him to the capital for the imperial exams.

In the Zhang household, the only candidates for this role were Bi Hong and Bi Lan. However, Bi Lan had already requested permission to leave the household next year when she turned eighteen.

That left Bi Hong.

Thinking about it, Bi Hong felt less envious. She had always admired the eldest son, and becoming his concubine would fulfill her long-held wish.

When Madam Chen returned that evening, Bi Hong showed her the return gift from Jiang Li.

Madam Chen nodded in satisfaction, her expression kind. "That child is truly well-mannered."

Bi Hong agreed. "Indeed. I dare say, now that she’s come of age, her family’s doorstep will soon be crowded with matchmakers."

Madam Chen glanced at Bi Hong. "Is her family arranging a marriage for her?"

"Not yet, but it’s likely soon," Bi Hong said, pouring tea for Madam Chen. Unaware of the older woman’s scrutinizing gaze, she added with a smile, "There’s a young man next door who’s quite fond of her. I suspect their engagement is imminent."

Madam Chen hummed thoughtfully, sipping her tea. "You may leave now. Send Steward Lin to me later."

---

The provincial exams consisted of two sessions, lasting two days and one night, and concluded on the 14th day of the sixth lunar month.

Huo Jue returned to Tong’an City on the 15th. As soon as he entered the city gates, he saw Shen Ting waiting with a carriage.

Huo Jue paused briefly, nodded to Shen Ting, and boarded the carriage.

When they arrived at Ruyi Garden, Wei Huan was in the courtyard with several maids, making incense.

"Finished?" Wei Huan set down the incense hammer, took a handkerchief from a maid, and wiped her hands. "How did it go?"

"Not bad," Huo Jue replied.

Wei Huan nodded, unconcerned about Huo Jue’s exam results. Her brother had always been exceptionally intelligent, and she had no doubts about his academic abilities.

"Come with me," she said, leading him through the corridor to the main hall. Once there, she asked, "A Jue, when do you want me to propose the marriage?"

Seeing how eager his sister was, Huo Jue smiled. "The exam results will be announced in a few days. You can propose after that."

Wei Huan thought it best to prepare early, so she said, "Alright. You’ve been exhausted these past few days. Rest for a while; there’s no need to rush back to the pharmacy. Uncle Su has Zhao Qian to assist him, so nothing will go wrong."

With that, she left to discuss the marriage proposal with Nanny Tong.

Huo Jue, having barely slept for days and confined to the examination hall for two days, was indeed tired.

After resting for a while in an armchair, he took out a letter and called Shen Ting in. Handing him the letter, Huo Jue said, "Deliver this to Xue Wu, then return to White Water Village. With Xue’s guards in Tong’an, nothing will go wrong here. I’m giving you a year. Can you make the people of White Water Village obey you?"

Shen Ting took the letter and bowed respectfully. "I will do my utmost to fulfill your expectations, Young Master."

Huo Jue patted Shen Ting’s shoulder gently. "Your adoptive father treated you like his own son. Once I go to the capital, I’ll have Zhao Qian visit White Water Village."

At the mention of his adoptive father, Shen Ting was momentarily stunned, then lowered his head. "But Zhao Qian is Xue Wu’s man..."

Huo Jue looked at Shen Ting. "In the past three years, the court has sent troops twice to suppress the bandits in White Water Village, and both times they failed. Do you really think it was luck that saved the village?"

Shen Ting’s eyes widened in realization. The two times the court had attacked, White Water Village had received advance warnings, allowing them to prepare and survive. Otherwise, how could they have grown so strong?

But now, thinking back, the timing of those warnings had been suspiciously precise, and they had always come through him. He had always felt something was off but could never figure out who was behind it.

Hearing Huo Jue’s tone, Shen Ting gasped. "Was it Xue Wu?"

"Yes. Your rise in White Water Village over the years was largely due to him," Huo Jue said, his voice firm. "Xue Wu is someone you can trust."

---

Shen Ting left Tong’an City under the cover of night. As he passed through the city gates, a luxurious carriage marked with the character "Zhang" entered the city.

He glanced at it, recognizing it as the carriage of the Zhang family, Tong’an’s wealthiest household.

Inside the carriage, Zhang Heng was resting with his eyes closed.

Upon arriving at the Zhang residence, he was immediately summoned to Madam Chen’s quarters.

Madam Chen had a warm towel brought for him to wipe his face and ordered the kitchen to prepare some hot soup and snacks. Once Zhang Heng had finished eating, she asked cautiously, "How did the exams go?"

Zhang Heng smiled gently. "It went well. Grandmother, there’s no need to worry. The results will be announced in a few days, and I’m confident I’ll be in the top ten."

Madam Chen was delighted. "Wonderful! You’ve surpassed your father. He didn’t earn the title of *xiucai* until he was thirty, and it took him four attempts to pass the provincial exams. Prepare well for the autumn exams!"

Zhang Heng nodded with a smile.

After chatting for a while, Zhang Heng left Madam Chen’s quarters.

Madam Chen watched her grandson’s tall figure disappear, then turned to the maid beside her. "If Heng passes the exams, have Steward Lin go to Yang’s Tavern and secure A Li’s hand in marriage. We can’t let her get engaged to someone else before Heng becomes a *juren* (provincial scholar). That would be unfortunate!"

The maid chuckled. "Even if she’s engaged, it’s not a problem. Engagements can be broken. Our Zhang family is the wealthiest in Tong’an, and the young master is both talented and handsome. I doubt Yang Hui Niang would pass up the chance to marry her daughter into our family!"

Madam Chen smiled, not finding the maid’s words inappropriate. In her eyes, it was indeed a great fortune for A Li to be chosen by Zhang Heng.

---

Time passed quickly, and soon it was the day of the results announcement.

The results were posted at the Confucius Temple in the east of the city. Early in the morning, Jiang Li dragged Jiang Ling along to see the results.

While Jiang Ling was calm, Jiang Li was a bundle of nerves.

Jiang Ling looked at his sister helplessly. "A Li, Huo Jue will definitely pass. The only question is whether he’ll come in first."

Jiang Li knew that, but she couldn’t help feeling anxious.

When they arrived at the temple, the area around the results board was already packed with people, all pushing and shoving to get a glimpse. Before Jiang Li could squeeze through the crowd, she saw a scholar Jiang Ling knew walking out dejectedly.

The young man burst into tears when he saw Jiang Ling. "Jiang Ling, I failed!"

"It’s alright. You can try again in two years," Jiang Ling comforted him. Once the scholar had calmed down, Jiang Ling asked, "Did you see Huo Jue’s ranking?"

The scholar looked up, tears streaming down his face. "Of course he came in first! County first, prefecture first, and now provincial first. Just as our teacher said, he’s the undisputed 'Little Triple Crown' winner! How can there be such a gap between people born of the same parents?"

---

Jiang Li handed Jiang Ling a string of coins to take his despondent classmate for a meal to lift his spirits, then left the temple with a spring in her step.

As she reached the entrance, she noticed a familiar figure—Steward Lin from the Zhang residence. The steward looked elated as he hurriedly boarded a carriage.

It dawned on Jiang Li that Zhang Heng had also taken the exams. Judging by Steward Lin’s expression, he must have done well.

As she pondered this, someone called her name in a deep, familiar voice. "A Li."

Jiang Li turned around, her face lighting up. "Huo Jue, you came in first!"

Huo Jue nodded calmly. He had gone to the academy early that morning to see the headmaster, who had informed him of his top ranking.

While he wasn’t particularly excited about the achievement, seeing Jiang Li’s joy made him smile.

"Huo Jue, you’re a *xiucai* now," Jiang Li said happily. In truth, Huo Jue’s status as a scholar had been all but guaranteed since he topped the county exams, but it was only after the provincial results that it became official.

On their way back to Zhu Fu Street, Jiang Li chatted excitedly, while Huo Jue listened quietly, a faint smile on his usually stoic face.

As they neared the tavern, Huo Jue suddenly stopped and looked toward the entrance. "A Li."

Jiang Li paused mid-sentence and followed his gaze. A familiar carriage was parked outside the tavern.

Huo Jue reached over and gently plucked a stray petal from her hair. "My sister is here to propose the marriage."

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TPMCS(rebirth) 21

The carriage came to a gentle stop at the gates of Ruyi Garden. Huo Jue stepped down first, placing a small stool on the ground before helping Jiang Li alight.

The young girl glanced curiously at the plaque above the gate and asked, "Is this where your... sister lives?"

Huo Jue nodded. "Yes, my sister has rented Ruyi Garden and will be staying here for the next few months."

Earlier in the carriage, Huo Jue had explained to Jiang Li that he had a sister who had survived and had now found him, settling in Tong'an City. Jiang Li had been stunned. She had always believed, based on what Old Man Su had mentioned, that Huo Jue's entire family had perished during their escape, leaving him alone in the world. Learning that he still had a sister filled her with joy for him, but also a faint unease. She worried that Huo Jue's sister might not like her.

Jiang Li glanced down at her dress, ensuring it was neat and presentable, and quietly sighed in relief.

Huo Jue, ever perceptive, noticed her small gesture and understood her nervousness. He reassured her gently, "A Li, there's no need to be nervous. My sister has been eager to meet you. She’ll like you very much."

Jiang Li nodded hesitantly, though her tension didn’t fully ease.

Huo Jue smiled faintly and said no more. He stepped forward, lifted the brass knocker, and rapped it against the door. Moments later, the door opened, revealing a tall, well-built man.

The man bowed his head respectfully, his posture straight and formal. "Master Huo, the young lady is waiting for you both at the Willow Pavilion."

Jiang Li couldn’t help but glance at the man. He didn’t seem like an ordinary gatekeeper. In fact, he carried himself more like a trained soldier.

Her curiosity about Huo Jue’s sister grew even stronger.

The two entered and made their way to the Willow Pavilion. The pavilion was surrounded by willow trees, its sides draped with soft, warm-colored curtains that fluttered gently in the breeze, resembling graceful dancers.

In the center of the pavilion stood a set of yellow pearwood furniture. A slender, elegant woman sat on a chair, accompanied by a stern-looking elderly nanny.

Hearing their approach, the woman turned her head, her tea-flower-like face lighting up with a smile.

She stood and greeted warmly, "A Li."

The lanterns hanging at the corners of the pavilion cast a soft glow, but her radiant smile outshone them all.

Jiang Li was captivated.

The woman before her had delicate brows, skin like polished jade, and bright, starry eyes filled with warmth.

Huo Jue’s sister was breathtakingly beautiful!

Her beauty wasn’t just in her features but also in her graceful demeanor.

Though she didn’t resemble Huo Jue closely, they shared the same refined, jade-like aura.

Jiang Li had once thought Xue Zhen was the most elegant young lady she had ever seen. But compared to this woman, Xue Zhen was like a flickering firefly next to the bright moon—utterly incomparable.

Seeing Jiang Li’s awestruck expression, Huo Jue chuckled and introduced, "A Li, this is my sister, and this is Nanny Tong."

Jiang Li blinked. Huo Jue had introduced her as "sister," but Jiang Li couldn’t address her so familiarly—not yet, at least. After all, they weren’t married.

So, she smiled politely and said, "Sister Huo, Nanny Tong."

Wei Huan glanced at Huo Jue and laughed softly. "You probably didn’t explain much about me to A Li, did you?"

She turned to Jiang Li and said kindly, "My surname is Wei. You can call me Sister Wei."

Though puzzled by the difference in surnames, Jiang Li didn’t press further and simply replied, "Sister Wei."

"Please, sit," Wei Huan gestured to a chair, inviting Jiang Li to join her. "There’s no need to be formal with me. Make yourself at home."

Jiang Li sat down properly, her posture stiff. As soon as she settled, Wei Huan turned to Huo Jue and asked, "Would you like to fetch the hairpin yourself, or should Nanny Tong get it for you?"

Huo Jue glanced at Jiang Li and said, "I’ll go."

With that, he strode off toward the garden.

His departure left Jiang Li even more nervous.

Wei Huan noticed and teased, "Is A Jue’s temper very bad? Does he often bully you?"

"No, no," Jiang Li quickly waved her hands, her expression earnest. "Huo Jue is very good to me."

Her earnest defense of her beloved was both sincere and endearing, making Wei Huan and Nanny Tong smile.

Wei Huan said, "I suspect A Jue is only this patient with you. He has little tolerance for others."

Jiang Li recalled how Huo Jue was often indifferent to other young ladies and blushed, staying silent.

Wei Huan chuckled again.

They say there’s always someone who can tame another. Who would have thought the one to tame A Jue would be such an innocent and sincere girl?

"A Li," Wei Huan said warmly, her large almond eyes filled with affection, "A Jue should treat you well. A man should cherish the woman he loves. If he ever treats you poorly, tell me, and I’ll scold him for you."

Wei Huan’s words weren’t mere politeness.

She could see how much Jiang Li adored Huo Jue. Young girls in love often put themselves in a lower position, but that shouldn’t be the case. Love should be equal, with no need for one to look up to the other.

Jiang Li felt a warmth in her heart at Wei Huan’s protective tone. She nodded and said, "Thank you, Sister Wei."

Wei Huan gestured to a maid outside the pavilion, and soon two maids approached with tea.

Wei Huan shared some amusing stories from Huo Jue’s childhood, and Jiang Li listened with great interest.

She had always been curious about Huo Jue’s past but had assumed he might not want to revisit it, given the heavy injuries he had suffered. Now that Wei Huan was sharing these stories, Jiang Li was more than happy to listen.

As two cups of tea passed, Jiang Li’s initial nervousness faded, and she began to relax in Wei Huan’s presence.

When Huo Jue returned, he found Jiang Li laughing so hard her eyes curved like crescent moons, her shoulders shaking with mirth.

Wei Huan, noticing Huo Jue’s return, gestured for the tea to be cleared and said to Jiang Li, "A Jue told me today is your coming-of-age ceremony. He personally carved a hairpin for you. A Li, would you allow me to perform the hairpin ceremony for you?"

Jiang Li was momentarily stunned.

She instinctively looked at Huo Jue and saw him holding a deep purple sandalwood hairpin. The pin was exquisitely smooth, with a lifelike flower carved at the end and two characters engraved: Jing Jia.

Jiang Li looked up at Huo Jue, her heart fluttering as his deep eyes met hers. "Jing Jia. This is the courtesy name I’ve chosen for you, A Li. Do you like it?"

Jiang Li’s cheeks flushed. When Huo Jue had mentioned giving her a courtesy name, she had thought it was just a passing remark. She hadn’t expected him to remember and even carve the hairpin himself.

She nodded softly. "I like it."

A maid brought a copper basin filled with water and a green jade incense burner, placing them on a small table.

The pavilion fell into a reverent silence.

Wei Huan washed her hands, lit the incense, and took the hairpin from Huo Jue. With great solemnity, she recited, "On this auspicious day, we mark your coming of age. Cast aside childish ways and embrace virtue. May you live long and prosper, blessed with great fortune."

The ancient hairpin was gently inserted into Jiang Li’s hair, and a profound sense of realization washed over her.

Earlier, during the noisy ceremony at the tavern, when her mother had placed the hairpin in her hair, she hadn’t felt this way. But now, in the serene and solemn pavilion, with the incense curling upward, she truly felt it: she had become a woman.

---

The night outside was quiet. Jiang Li sat in the carriage, her fingers tracing the white jade bracelet on her wrist, her heart still unsettled.

She had left home under the pretext of fetching a hairpin specially prepared by Zhang Yingying. Now, with the wooden hairpin in her hair, it felt like a happy coincidence.

Jiang Li touched theflower and the carefully engraved characters, unable to resist asking, "Why... why Jing Jia?"

Huo Jue’s gaze lingered on the hairpin in her dark hair.

In his mind, he heard his grandfather’s voice: Zhaoming Yourong, Gaolang Lingzhong. Ajue's courtesy name has been chosen by your grandfather, and it is called Zhaoming.

Men typically received their courtesy names at the age of twenty, but his grandfather had chosen his name before he was even ten.

Zhao Ming—it was his grandfather’s hope that he would grow into a noble and virtuous gentleman.

"A Li, have you heard the line: 'What is it, the bamboo bowl Jingjia? Jing Jia means pure and beautiful," Huo Jue explained, his hands folded as he looked at her with a smile. "These two words suit you well."

Jiang Li felt a pang of embarrassment. She hadn’t heard the poem Huo Jue mentioned.

She shook her head and said softly, "I haven’t heard it, but I like it."

Huo Jue reassured her, "It’s from the Book of Songs. I’ll read it to you someday."

Someday.

The way Huo Jue said it made it sound like they would have countless "somedays" together.

Jiang Li had never found the word so beautiful before. She lifted her lashes and smiled. "Okay."

The carriage stopped at the pharmacy’s entrance. Jiang Li gathered her skirt and turned to look at him. "Then... I’ll go back now."

Huo Jue nodded. "Go ahead. Rest early."

As Jiang Li’s figure disappeared through the side door and the Ruyi Garden carriage slowly drove away, Huo Jue remained standing under the tree, lost in thought.

He remembered that day, the day after A Li’s coming-of-age ceremony.

The young lady had tied her hair in an adult style, wearing a bright red dress. She had seemed to shed her childishness overnight, exuding a new charm.

She had handed him a package of pastries, saying timidly, "This is a thank-you gift for yesterday’s ceremony. Do you... do you like it?"

He had taken it coldly, glancing at her briefly. In his peripheral vision, he had seen the agate beads dangling from the gold hairpin in her hair, swaying in the wind.

That flash of vibrant red had irritated him inexplicably.

He had been about to turn away when, on a whim, he asked, "Have you chosen a courtesy name?"

Jiang Li had been surprised, clearly not expecting him to initiate conversation. She had frowned in thought and said, "No, not yet. Huo Jue, you’re so learned. Could you... could you choose one for me?"

Huo Jue had coldly ignored her request and walked away.

As he entered the pharmacy, he had thought to himself: Such a personal matter should be left to her future husband. What did it have to do with him?

But even as he thought this, he had paused, unable to shake the line from the poem: Zhaoming has Rong, Gaolang has a final death. What should he tell you, the bamboo basket and the bowl are quiet and beautiful. *

In that fleeting moment, he had thought: Jing Jia—these two words suit her perfectly.

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Footnotes

* The poem Huo Jue references is from the Classic of Poetry (《诗经》), also known as the Book of Songs, which is one of the oldest collections of Chinese poetry. The specific line he quotes is:

"其告维何，笾豆静嘉。"
(Qí gào wéi hé, biān dòu jìng jiā.)

This line comes from the poem 《大雅·文王》 (Dà Yǎ · Wén Wáng), which is part of the Major Odes section of the Classic of Poetry. The poem praises the virtues of King Wen of Zhou and the rituals of the Zhou dynasty. The phrase "笾豆静嘉" (biān dòu jìng jiā) refers to the ceremonial vessels (笾豆, biān dòu) used in rituals, which are described as "静嘉" (jìng jiā), meaning "pure and beautiful" or "clean and exquisite."

In the context of the poem, this line emphasizes the solemnity and perfection of the rituals, symbolizing order, virtue, and harmony. Huo Jue uses this phrase to name Jiang Li, suggesting that she embodies purity, beauty, and grace, much like the ceremonial vessels described in the poem.

The name "静嘉" (Jing Jia) carries a deep cultural and poetic resonance, reflecting Huo Jue's admiration for Jiang Li and his hope that she will embody these noble qualities. It also ties her to the classical ideals of virtue and refinement, aligning her with the timeless elegance of the Classic of Poetry.

TPMCS(rebirth) 20 - I will marry you after the provincial examination, okay?

When Jiang Li heard Zhang Yingying's words, she was momentarily stunned. After processing what her friend had said, she quickly laughed and replied, "Yingying, what nonsense are you talking about? The willow-shooting competition is about to start. Pay attention!"

Zhang Yingying could tell that Jiang Li didn’t take her words seriously. She pouted, wanting to say more, but noticed Jiang Li’s gaze was fixed intently on Huo Jue. Swallowing her words, she turned her attention to the long corridor.

On the corridor stood a row of young men holding bows and arrows. Huo Jue, standing half a head taller than the others, was impossible to miss.

As the monk dropped the red cloth, Huo Jue swiftly raised his bow. In the blink of an eye, the arrow shot through the air, striking the gourd hanging at the highest point. With a *ding*, the gourd opened, and a small white pigeon flapped its wings and flew away.

The crowd erupted in astonishment, and the young men standing beside Huo Jue were left speechless.

They had barely drawn their bows when Huo Jue had already hit the gourd and released the pigeon.

With such speed, how could they possibly compete?

Exchanging glances, they still shot their arrows, determined to finish what they had started, regardless of the outcome.

Soon, two more pigeons took flight, but they were far behind the first one.

Huo Jue had won effortlessly. He picked up the琉璃灯 (glass lantern) and descended the steps, walking steadily toward Jiang Li.

All eyes were on him, and many young women whispered shyly as they watched.

Huo Jue seemed oblivious to the attention. He casually made his way through the corridor and handed the lantern to Jiang Li, asking, "Is one enough?"

"Enough," Jiang Li replied softly, taking the lantern’s handle under the watchful eyes of the crowd. Her ears turned red without her realizing it.

Zhang Yingying glanced at Huo Jue, then at Jiang Li, suddenly feeling like a third wheel. Her eyes darted between the two, and she smiled. "A Li, my father is managing accounts at the shop on West Willow Street today. I’ll go find him. Let Huo Jue take you back to the tavern later."

With that, she waved cheerfully and walked away.

After Zhang Yingying left, Huo Jue asked Jiang Li, "Aside from the temple fair, is there anywhere else you’d like to go?"

Jiang Li rarely had the chance to stroll the market with him, so she eagerly nodded.

They spent nearly an hour wandering the streets, watching an old craftsman make sugar figurines, marveling at a fire-breathing performer, and sampling various street snacks.

As the sky gradually darkened, Jiang Li walked side by side with Huo Jue back to Zhu Fu Street, holding a stick of candied hawthorn in one hand and the琉璃灯 in the other.

As they neared the tavern, Huo Jue suddenly stopped and called out, "A Li."

Jiang Li, who had just bitten into a piece of hawthorn, was startled. The other half of the fruit fell from the stick and landed on her shoe, which was embroidered with auspicious patterns.

With one cheek still puffed out from the hawthorn, Jiang Li blinked at Huo Jue, her dark eyes wide and slightly dazed.

Huo Jue’s lips curved into a faint smile. He crouched down in front of her and used his sleeve to carefully wipe the sugary stain from her shoe.

Jiang Li felt a little embarrassed and was about to say, "You don’t have to," when Huo Jue looked up at her, his gaze steady and serious. "A Li, after the provincial exams, I’ll marry you. Is that alright?"

Bathed in the moonlight, the young man looked up at her, his long brows framing star-like eyes. His deep voice wrapped around Jiang Li’s rapidly beating heart like delicate threads.

Her eyelashes fluttered slightly, and the琉璃灯 in her hand spun halfway in the breeze. The half-hidden face of the Bodhisattva in the lantern’s painting illuminated Huo Jue’s face, casting a gentle, compassionate glow.

The sugar coating of the hawthorn melted into sweetness, spreading from her mouth to her heart.

Jiang Li, suppressing her shyness, softly replied, "Alright."

---

Wei Huan stayed at the inn for half a month before moving to the easternmost part of Tong’an City, East Willow Street.

Xue Wu had rented a three-courtyard house there called Ruyi Garden.

The house had previously belonged to a scholar. While not extravagant, it was elegant and tasteful, with lush trees, blooming flowers, and a pavilion for relaxation.

But Wei Huan was still unsatisfied. She sent Nanny Tong out to purchase various items, such as a high-quality golden-thread nanmu bed and an antique sandalwood dressing table. She even personally painted and blended fragrances, transforming the eastern room into a space of refined elegance.

Xue Wu leaned against the doorframe, watching her with a sidelong glance. "You’re putting so much effort into a room someone else will live in. We won’t be here long—why go to all this trouble?"

Wei Huan glanced at him, ignoring his jealous tone. As she crushed sun-dried spices with a stone pestle, she replied indifferently, "When are you leaving?"

Xue Wu’s smiling eyes narrowed slightly as he studied her for a long moment before answering, "I’ll leave once Zhao Qian and the others arrive, probably in the next day or two."

Wei Huan’s hands paused briefly before she resumed grinding the spices.

Xue Wu walked over, stopping her hand, and rested his chin on her shoulder. In a low voice, he whispered in her ear, "Once I leave, it’ll be at least four months before we see each other again. Little Lychee, will you miss me?"

Trapped in his embrace, Wei Huan couldn’t move. She let go of the pestle, turned her head, and kissed his chin.

Xue Wu’s eyes darkened. He bent down, picked her up, and carried her straight into the inner chamber of the western room.

---

The next afternoon, Zhao Qian arrived. With him came a dozen of Xue Wu’s暗卫 (hidden guards) and seven or eight maids and nannies from Wushuang Courtyard.

In addition, the carriages carried three chests of gold and silver, as well as half-person-high boxes filled with rare treasures.

Judging by the timing, Xue Wu must have arranged everything Wei Huan would need in Tong’an City as soon as he began pursuing her from the capital.

Once everything was settled, Xue Wu left for the capital that very night.

After he left, Wei Huan opened a wooden chest and selected a gilded enamel jewelry box inlaid with pearls. Inside was a complete set of blue jade and red agate hair ornaments, including hairpins, tiaras, and earrings.

She handed the box to Nanny Tong and smiled. "Nanny, we finally have a proper gift for A Li."

---

By the end of May, Ruyi Garden was fully renovated.

Huo Jue did not move into Ruyi Garden, choosing to remain at the Su family’s pharmacy. After Zhao Qian arrived, aside from tending to Wei Huan’s health, he was frequently "invited" by Huo Jue to administer acupuncture treatments to Su Shiqing to detoxify him.

Zhao Qian was an old acquaintance of Huo Jue’s from his past life. The two had crossed paths many times.

Born into a family of physicians, Zhao Qian’s ancestors had served as院判 (chief physicians) in the imperial hospital. Though highly skilled and intelligent, Zhao Qian refused to work in the imperial hospital, disliking the constraints.

Four years ago, Zhao Qian’s father, Zhao Huaide, was implicated in a poisoning case in the imperial harem, nearly leading to the execution of the entire family. Thanks to Xue Wu’s intervention, he was cleared of the charges of harming the royal heirs.

From then on, Zhao Qian was fiercely loyal to Xue Wu. Knowing that Wei Huan was Xue Wu’s most cherished person and that Huo Jue was her long-lost brother, Zhao Qian reluctantly but diligently treated Huo Jue’s adoptive father, Su Shiqing.

Under Zhao Qian’s care, Su Shiqing’s condition visibly improved.

On the day of Jiang Li’s coming-of-age ceremony, Su Shiqing even personally visited the tavern to present her with a gift.

In the Great Zhou, the coming-of-age ceremony for common girls was simple. It usually involved a hair-pinning ritual at home, attended by a few close friends, followed by some celebration.

Unlike the elaborate ceremonies held by noble families, which took place in ancestral temples with numerous female guests and solemn music, Jiang Li’s ceremony was modest.

On the sixth day of the sixth month, the tavern closed for the day. Yang Hui Niang invited a few happily married women from Zhu Fu Street and Jiang Li’s closest friends to witness the ceremony.

The young girl, dressed in a crimson cross-collar dress with her hair styled in double buns, knelt facing east as Yang Hui Niang pinned a hairpin in her hair.

With that, the ceremony was complete.

From that day forward, Jiang Li was considered an adult and eligible for marriage.

"A Li, you look so beautiful today!" Zhang Yingying linked arms with Jiang Li. Being a month younger, she eagerly anticipated her own coming-of-age ceremony after witnessing Jiang Li’s.

Jiang Li secretly pulled out a small copper mirror and examined herself, whispering, "Do I really look good?"

Zhang Yingying nodded. "You look stunning. In all of Zhu Fu Street—no, in all of Tong’an City—no other girl compares to you."

The girl in the mirror, with her bright eyes and delicate features, was indeed beautiful.

Jiang Li put the mirror away and smiled.

Zhang Yingying glanced at Jiang Li and, struck by a sudden thought, asked, "After the ceremony, are you going to see Huo Jue?"

Jiang Li nearly dropped the mirror in her hand. She quickly glanced at Yang Hui Niang and whispered, "Keep your voice down! If my mother hears, she’ll skin me alive."

She then frowned, touching the golden hairpin in her hair. "I haven’t figured out how to sneak out yet."

Zhang Yingying’s eyes sparkled with mischief. She pointed to herself and grinned. "I have an idea."

---

In the alley near the Su family pharmacy, Huo Jue stood under a poplar tree. Hearing hurried footsteps, he looked up.

In the golden light of the setting sun, a girl in a red dress hurried toward him, lifting the hem of her skirt. She soon reached him.

The thin golden light made her skin appear as white as snow, and her clear, dewy eyes resembled those of a young deer emerging from the forest at dawn. Innocent and pure, yet the red dress and her rosy lips added a touch of striking beauty.

Huo Jue stared at her for a long moment before finally looking away.

"Huo Jue, have you been waiting long?"

Jiang Li didn’t notice the turmoil in his eyes. Slightly out of breath, she instinctively touched the hairpin in her hair and adjusted her sash. She had rushed over and worried she might look disheveled.

Today, she was a grown woman. She couldn’t afford to be careless.

"Not long," Huo Jue replied, reaching up to adjust her golden hairpin. His deep voice was slightly hoarse as he looked down at her. "A Li, I want to take you to meet someone."

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TPMCS(rebirth) 19 - Do you think it's possible that Huo Jue has liked you for a long time?

 After finishing brewing the wine, Jiang Li stepped out into the courtyard and saw Zhang Yingying peeking into the tavern from outside. When Yingying spotted her, her round eyes lit up with excitement.

"A Li, hurry! The temple fair is about to start!"

Zhang Yingying had come to take Jiang Li to the temple fair. On West Willow Street, there was a temple with a thriving incense tradition. During the Dragon Boat Festival, the temple hosted a "Willow Shooting" competition.

The "Willow Shooting" competition, as the name suggested, involved hiding pigeons inside gourds, which were then tied to willow branches. Contestants would shoot arrows to break open the gourds and release the pigeons. The winner was determined by whose pigeon flew the highest.

Zhang Yingying had been talking about this event for the past two months.

Jiang Li informed her mother, Yang Hui Niang, that she was going to the temple fair, then linked arms with Zhang Yingying as they headed toward West Willow Street.

"I heard that in Jinling City, the Willow Shooting competition is done on horseback! Those handsome young men gallop on their horses, shooting arrows with incredible precision—it's so impressive! Our Tong'an City is just too small. Next year, I’m definitely going to beg my father to take me to Jinling to see it!"

The temple fair's Willow Shooting competition was more about fun than skill. There were no horses involved; contestants simply stood in a corridor several dozen feet away and shot arrows at the willow trees.

While it wasn’t as challenging as shooting from horseback, it was still no easy feat.

Jiang Li had attended the fair last year, and out of ten participants, only three or four managed to hit the gourds.

By the time the two girls arrived, the willow trees outside the temple were already adorned with gourds. The bright red gourds hung from the flexible, resilient branches, swaying and clinking in the wind.

At the end of the corridor, on a red wooden table typical of temple settings, sat three dazzling glass lanterns.

"Wow, the prizes this time are glass lanterns!" Zhang Yingying exclaimed, pointing at the lanterns. "A Li, didn’t you want a glass lantern during the Lantern Festival? Maybe I’ll give it a try and win one for you!"

Zhang Yingying had been pampered since childhood and was even weaker than Jiang Li. She probably couldn’t even draw a bowstring. But seeing her enthusiasm, Jiang Li didn’t want to dampen her spirits. She smiled and said, "If you want to give it a try, go ahead. But don’t worry about winning the lantern for me. I’m not as keen on it as I used to be."

Jiang Li’s voice was gentle, her eyes smiling, with a small dimple appearing at the corner of her mouth.

Huo Jue had just stepped out of the carriage when he saw Jiang Li’s radiant smile and heard her say, "I’m not as keen on the glass lantern as I used to be."

He lowered his gaze, walked over, and asked casually, "A Li, do you want a glass lantern?"

Jiang Li and Zhang Yingying turned at the familiar voice. Under the soft sunlight stood a young man in a simple green robe, tall and elegant like a pine tree, his presence as striking as the moon. Just standing there, he drew attention effortlessly.

Jiang Li was surprised to see Huo Jue at the temple fair. Her eyes sparkled with delight. "Huo Jue, why are you here?"

Earlier, when they had parted, Huo Jue had mentioned he had important matters to attend to. Jiang Li had thought she wouldn’t see him again today.

Huo Jue met her starry-eyed gaze, his expression softening. "I finished my work, so I came to find you."

After speaking, he turned to Zhang Yingying and gave her a slight nod.

Zhang Yingying greeted Huo Jue with a smile, but inwardly, she was amazed. When he looked at Jiang Li, his eyes were gentle, his voice warm. But the moment his gaze shifted to her, his face turned cold and indifferent.

In Zhang Yingying’s eyes, Huo Jue was always reserved, rarely showing emotion. The fact that he could display such tenderness meant Jiang Li had truly won his heart!

Zhang Yingying was thrilled for Jiang Li.

She knew she could never pluck this lofty flower, but her best friend had done it! She felt proud by association.

If Huo Jue were to pass the imperial exams and become a scholar, Jiang Li would be the wife of a scholar! How impressive and prestigious would that be!

After exchanging greetings with Zhang Yingying, Huo Jue turned to Jiang Li and said, "I’ll win a glass lantern for you."

He said it as casually as if he were offering to pick a flower.

Jiang Li quickly grabbed his sleeve. "No need, really. I’m not that interested in the lantern anymore."

It wasn’t that Jiang Li didn’t want the lantern—if he could win it, that would be wonderful. But what if he lost? Would he feel embarrassed?

It was just a glass lantern. She couldn’t bear to see him upset.

Zhang Yingying, unaware of Jiang Li’s thoughts, assumed she was just being modest and chimed in, "A Li has been dreaming about a glass lantern since the Lantern Festival. If you can win one for her, Huo Jue, that would be perfect!"

Huo Jue glanced at Jiang Li, perhaps seeing through her concerns, and smiled. "Don’t worry, A Li. I’ll win."

---

In a carriage across the street, Wei Huan lifted a corner of the curtain and peered through the half-open window at the young girl outside the corridor. A smile tugged at her lips. "Nanny, the girl in the pale yellow dress must be A Li. Just as A Jue said, she’s a lovely and kind-hearted girl."

Nanny Tong couldn’t help but chuckle.

How could one judge someone’s character from a single glance? But Wei Huan’s fondness for her brother extended to the girl he loved, so of course, she saw only the best in her.

Nanny Tong held the curtain open and glanced outside. She saw the bright-eyed girl watching Huo Jue’s retreating figure, her smile radiant and utterly charming.

Nanny Tong felt that the girl’s smile could lift anyone’s spirits. She smiled and replied, "How could the young lady our young master loves be anything but wonderful? Don’t you remember, Miss, how picky he’s been since he was a child?"

Wei Huan laughed. "Grandmother used to worry that A Jue would never find a wife. He’s always been like this—if he doesn’t like something, he won’t take it, no matter who offers it. Who would have thought he’d grow up and quietly find himself a wife?"

As they chatted, they watched Jiang Li for a while before finally lowering the curtain. Soon, the carriage slowly made its way to Zhu Fu Street.

Wei Huan touched a string of mutton-fat jade bracelets on her wrist and mused, "Nanny, do you think this bracelet would make a suitable gift for A Li?"

Nanny Tong’s gaze fell on the bracelet, and she felt a pang of reluctance.

It wasn’t that she was materialistic, but this bracelet had been a gift from the old lady to Wei Huan.

The eighteen exquisite mutton-fat jade beads were smooth and translucent, each carved with an image of Buddha and blessed by the abbot of the Great Xiangguo Temple. It symbolized enduring blessings and a lifetime of peace.

Such a bracelet could easily serve as a family heirloom for a noble family.

After the Wei family was annihilated, all their possessions were seized. When Wei Huan was rescued, the only things she had left were this bracelet and the jade pendant around her neck.

Such meaningful heirlooms were irreplaceable.

Despite her reluctance, Nanny Tong knew Wei Huan had already made up her mind. She replied, "Miss A Li has fair skin. This bracelet would look beautiful on her."

Wei Huan smiled. "Giving just a bracelet feels a bit inadequate. It’s a pity we left in such a hurry. Otherwise, among the things Xue Wu gave me, there’s a set of jewelry that would suit A Li perfectly."

At the mention of Xue Wu, Nanny Tong hesitated before saying, "Miss, are we really not going back to the capital?"

"Of course not. We’ll return with A Jue and A Li when he goes to the capital for the exams."

Nanny Tong thought of Xue Wu, who had been injured in the inn but refused to see a doctor, stubbornly waiting for Wei Huan to tend to his wounds. She sighed softly and said no more.

---

When Huo Jue said he would participate in the Willow Shooting competition, he meant it. He walked over, obtained a token from the temple monks, picked up a bow and arrow, and stepped into the corridor.

Jiang Li had known Huo Jue for six years but had never seen him shoot an arrow. She had no idea when he had learned.

Zhang Yingying, of course, hadn’t seen it either. She nudged Jiang Li and whispered, "A Li, do you think Huo Jue will win?"

Jiang Li nodded confidently. "He will."

Seeing Jiang Li’s unwavering faith, Zhang Yingying smiled and suddenly remembered an incident from three years ago.

It had been a sunny early summer day, much like today. Zhang Yingying had wanted to fly a kite in the mountains and had dragged Jiang Li along.

Unexpectedly, a wild boar had charged out of the woods.

The boar was huge and fierce, sending the two girls running for their lives.

Zhang Yingying, being frail, could only run a few steps before collapsing.

In a panic, Jiang Li picked up a stone and threw it at the boar, then dashed off in another direction. The boar, enraged, chased after her.

When Jiang Li returned to find Zhang Yingying, her hands and neck were covered in scratches, and her dress was filthy. Zhang Yingying was horrified.

Later, Jiang Li explained that she had rolled down a hillside while trying to escape the boar.

Zhang Yingying wiped her tears as she escorted Jiang Li home. As they approached the tavern, Huo Jue happened to step out of the pharmacy.

Back then, Huo Jue was just a young boy, cold and aloof toward everyone.

But when he saw Jiang Li’s disheveled state, there was a flicker of something in his usually icy eyes.

Zhang Yingying thought back carefully. That flicker had probably been surprise and... anger?

At the time, she hadn’t thought much of it. But now, it suddenly made sense.

"A Li," Zhang Yingying nudged Jiang Li again. "Do you remember that time when we were twelve and ran into the wild boar in the mountains?"

How could Jiang Li forget? It was etched into her memory!

They had been happily flying kites when suddenly a wild boar appeared and started chasing them.

What embarrassed her the most was that Huo Jue had seen her in such a sorry state when she returned.

Not only had he seen her, but he had also walked over with a cold expression and asked, "Who did this to you?"

Huo Jue rarely spoke to her, and their private interactions were almost nonexistent.

His sudden question had startled both her and Zhang Yingying.

Back then, Jiang Li had been so intimidated by his icy gaze that she stammered, "I—I was chased by a boar, and then I rolled down a hill."

To this day, Jiang Li remembered the look on Huo Jue’s face when he heard her answer—a mix of disbelief and amusement.

He probably thought she was foolish and ridiculous...

"Of course I remember," Jiang Li pursed her lips and turned to Zhang Yingying, puzzled. "Why are you bringing that up now?"

Zhang Yingying glanced at Huo Jue in the distance, then back at Jiang Li, and smiled mischievously. "A Li, do you think it’s possible that Huo Jue has liked you for a long time?"

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