My Darling, Coax Me.

CHAPTER 32: His Royal Highness the Crown Prince has arrived!

　　After knocking the maid unconscious, everyone dispersed as Yun Ling indicated.

　　Yun Ling looked at the maid lying on the ground and had someone bring her the money pouch she had retrieved. She carefully examined it.

　　The needlework was exquisite; among all the noble young ladies, only Zhou Xiangjun possessed such skill. And today, she had been particularly vocal in her accusations.

　　Massaging her temples, Yun Ling felt a headache coming on. She wasn't sure how to handle the situation; whether to report it directly to the Crown Prince was a difficult decision. To do so, however, might seem like tattling.

　　Turning her head, she thought about his current attitude and decided to write it down in the Guanyan Lu. She would submit it together with the rest later.

　　No matter what, she would meticulously record everything that happened in the palace.

　　However, there was one matter that she needed to handle herself.

　　……

　　After dinner, Mu Lanru, assisted by Cuì Lǜ and Zhu Hong, was preparing to wash up and go to bed.

　　Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. A palace maid outside said, “Miss Mu, Yun Gugu requests your presence at the Water Pavilion for a chat.”

　　Mu Lanru glanced at her two maids.

　　Cuì Lǜ smiled and said, “Today, many people were criticizing Yun Shanggong. Only Miss didn't say anything, and even pulled Miss Zhou back. She must be grateful to Miss.”

　　Zhu Hong said, “Could she be coming to thank Miss?”

　　Mu Lanru fastened her robe again and said, “Alright, I'll go meet her.”

　　Night fell, shrouding the path in a hazy darkness. Cuì Lǜ and Zhu Hong each carried a lantern.

　　After passing through the long, secluded palace wall, they saw a slender figure standing alone. It could only be Yun Ling.

　　Mu Lanru forced a warm smile and walked forward, “Yun Gugu, have you been waiting long?

　　Upon hearing Yun Gugu's request, I immediately put down everything and came over. Yet, I still kept you waiting for so long. It seems I'm at fault.”

　　Yun Ling shook her head. “It's alright. I should be the one going to see Miss Mu, but I was afraid of attracting too many eyes. So, I could only request you to come here.”

　　Mu Lanru, understanding and considerate, said, “It's alright, it's alright. This afternoon, Yun Gugu was bullied by the Anfu Junzhu, and I couldn't help but feel heartbroken. It's just that I've always been weak and didn't dare to argue with that tyrannical princess. My heart is filled with guilt. Are you alright?”

　　Yun Ling said, “Thank you for your concern, Miss Mu.”

　　Mu Lanru smiled, “By the way, Yun Gugu, you called for me so late. Is there something you need?”

　　“It's nothing important,”

　　Yun Ling pulled out a money pouch from her sleeve and handed it to her, “It's just to return this money pouch to its rightful owner.”

　　In her hand, was the very money pouch that had been retrieved from the young maid, Xiao Liu, that afternoon.

　　The lantern's light illuminated the intricate pattern on the money pouch, dispelling the lingering mist of uncertainty.

　　Mu Lanru's face changed, the smile at the corner of her lips disappearing, “Yun Gugu, what do you mean? This is not my money pouch. Don't accuse me wrongly!”

　　Yun Ling nodded, “Of course I know this is not your money pouch. The stitches on it are indeed Zhou Xiangjun's work. But –”

　　Her tone changed, “Zhou Xiangjun has been grateful for your kindness and secretly gave it to you. Correct?”

　　Mu Lanru's body swayed precariously, but she forced herself to deny it. “Absolutely not. Zhou Xiangjun only gave me a handkerchief, never a money pouch. Do you have proof? Accusing me with a mere money pouch? It's ridiculous!”

　　Yun Ling came straight to the point. “You bribed Xiao Liu to incite the Anfu Junzhu to make things difficult for me, and then intentionally replaced the money pouch you used to bribe Xiao Liu with one that Zhou Xiangjun gave you. All so that if things were to come to light, you would have a scapegoat to take the blame.”

　　“Miss Mu, you are quite intelligent. In such a short time, you've crafted a series of schemes, each one interlocking with the next. I didn't come here today to cause trouble. I simply wanted to tell you that no matter what your reasons are for targeting me, please stop. Let us live in peace. And don't try to privately scheme against me or frame me again. Because beneath the East Palace, there is nothing that I don't know.

　　I came alone today, without telling anyone, all for the sake of your reputation.”

　　She looked directly at Mu Lanru, “Miss Mu, you are a clever woman. You should understand what I mean?”

　　This was the first time Yun Ling had interacted with Mu Lanru. She was unsure what she had done to offend her, provoking such elaborate scheming.

　　She had come to make this clear to Mu Lanru, to let her know that her tricks were easily seen through and would not succeed in harming her.

　　Mu Lanru would become a concubine, and she, a Shanggong of the East Palace. Once Mu Lanru entered the palace, there would be constant interactions between them. While Yun Ling didn't want to be at odds with her, she wouldn't allow herself to be framed by her schemes.

　　She was also letting Mu Lanru know that a mere Shanggong like her couldn't stand in her way, so why bother with her.

　　If Mu Lanru was truly intelligent, she should know what to do moving forward. She shouldn't waste her time on Yun Ling anymore.

　　The night air was a bit chilly.

　　With Yun Ling speaking so clearly, Mu Lanru's schemes and excuses seemed pathetically inept.

　　Her expression was unsightly, her fingers nearly snapping from the force of her grip.

　　After a long moment, she finally ripped through her facade of gentle kindness, a malicious smile twisting her features. “I did it on purpose. Do you know why?”

　　Yun Ling watched her, urging her to continue.

　　She wanted to know why, too.

　　“You're too much of an eyesore,” Mu Lanru said lightly, “An eyesore that I simply can't stand.”

　　“But don't get too cocky,” Mu Lanru said, “Do you really think my cousin treats you any differently?

　　If he truly cared about you, why would he only make you a Shanggong? In the end, in his eyes, you're just a servant, nothing more. You don't amount to anything.”

　　“If I'm nothing,” Yun Ling paused, then asked coolly, “Then why did Miss Mu target me as soon as you entered the palace?”

　　Mu Lanru was caught off guard, speechless.

　　After a while, she suddenly laughed again, “Even if you've gotten the upper hand verbally, you're still just a servant. Do whatever you want.

　　Maybe I haven't told you about my past with the Crown Prince,” she said, a wistful look on her face as she spoke of the past. “At that time, Empress Zhaohui was still alive. He was the most esteemed prince in the palace, everyone fawned over him, but he disliked them all.

　　One time, when my grandfather brought me to the palace, he was in a bad mood. All the palace servants were afraid to approach him. But I, I stayed with him and chatted for a while until he cheered up. He fell ill, and no one could soothe him. Empress Zhaohui called me to the palace in the middle of the night, saying that my cousin only listened to me. Only when I came would he obediently take his medicine.

　　My cousin and I had a deep affection for each other, we grew up together. If the Empress hadn't passed away so early, and if my father hadn't been so concerned about appearances, our feelings for each other wouldn't have faded.”

　　Mu Lanru rambled on about her past with the Crown Prince, then turned her head, leisurely watching Yun Ling, waiting for her to show disappointment and sorrow.

　　The night breeze was cool, carrying away the last trace of warmth.

　　Yun Ling met her gaze directly.

　　Then, her red lips parted, and she asked with confusion, “So?”

　　So she was reminiscing about the past here in the middle of the night, what was she trying to say?

　　“So?” Mu Lanru's brows furrowed, 

　　“So my cousin and I grew up together, we have a deep affection for each other. I'm his exception, his one true love. Don't you feel angry, jealous, knowing this?”

　　Yun Ling slowly let out a breath, calmly and seriously saying, “Miss Mu, as a Shanggong, I have countless things to deal with. I came here to return your purse. If you're willing to let it go, I won't hold it against you, we can go our separate ways. This isn't about listening to your sentimental reminiscing.

　　Whether or not you have feelings for the Crown Prince, that's something you should discuss with him. Reminiscing in front of me... Don't you find it ridiculous?” (T/N: I can't help it,I wanna laugh so much at this part!! 🤣)

　　Yun Ling felt that perhaps this trip had been unnecessary. Mu Lanru seemed to have convinced herself that Yun Ling was vying for her favor, making her a thorn in her side.

　　“I've said all I need to. If Miss Mu continues this, I won't mind showing you my methods.”

　　She wasn't afraid of these young ladies' underhanded schemes, but she didn't want the trouble. If she could, she just wanted a peaceful life.

　　She turned and left.

　　Mu Lanru remained where she was, her anger so intense that she nearly bit her tongue in frustration. She said resentfully, “I hope you truly don't care, and you're not just pretending.

　　He will always treat you as a servant. And me, though I once betrayed him, he still remembered our past affection and called for me first when it came time to choose a wife.

　　If he truly loved someone, all the rules and etiquette would mean nothing to him.”

　　Mu Lanru's words dissipated with the night wind, reaching Yun Ling's ears but not stopping her in her tracks.

　　……

　　Back in her courtyard, Yun Ling settled onto a chair, the candle flames flickering in the room.

　　Mu Lanru's words still echoed in her ears. Yun Ling let out a breath, suddenly feeling a bit agitated, covering her face with her hands. It seemed like she wouldn't give up.

　　Mu Lanru and the Crown Prince had a past, but Yun Ling didn't want to be caught in the middle of their love and hate.

　　She had hoped that after taking revenge, she could live a peaceful life as a female official in the palace, having power to protect herself and not be bullied and helpless as she had been before. So, no matter how unpredictable the Crown Prince was, she endured it.

　　After all, every employer has their quirks. What's so difficult about doing your job? Especially when he's basically the most powerful employer in the world. When she reaches retirement age, she'll have a decent pension and some savings.

　　Then, she'll take her master's and Ru Dong's ashes out of the palace and see the world.

　　But now, Mu Lanru sees her as a thorn in her side. Once she enters the palace, there will be endless trouble and schemes waiting for her.

　　Yun Ling grew up in this deep palace, witnessed countless schemes and underhanded tactics in the palace struggles, and saw countless palace servants die because of it.

　　Thinking about it, Yun Ling got up and opened the window, looking up at the full moon in the night sky, feeling a sudden pang of sadness.

　　She just wanted a place to settle down, was that so difficult?

　　Mu Lanru was right, the Crown Prince wouldn't take a palace maid as his wife, so even a little affection from him was like a deadly poison.

　　——

　　The little eunuch rushed in to report, whispering excitedly in Grand Eunuch An's ear.

　　The more he listened, the more An Zhong's brow furrowed with worry.

　　After listening, he waved the little eunuch away. He stood outside the hall, pacing back and forth, uncertain what to do.

　　The Crown Prince is busy with state affairs and cannot be easily disturbed. If he goes in now, he might upset the Crown Prince, but he can't rest easy without reporting it.

　　He gritted his teeth and decided to go anyway.

　　This concerned Yun Shanggong, if he didn't report it, His Highness would surely pursue it later.

　　The hall was brightly lit by candles, silent and still.

　　An Zhong entered the hall and stood beside Xie Jue, his face hesitant.

　　Xie Jue lowered his head, reviewing the memorials, “What is it?”

　　An Zhong immediately whispered, “There was a slight incident at the Wen Shui Pavilion this afternoon. I'm not sure what to do.”

　　“Wen Shui Pavilion?” It's just a matter of a few noble ladies. Xie Jue didn't even look up, “What happened?”

　　Grand Eunuch An quietly recounted how the Anfu Junzhu deliberately made things difficult for Yun Shanggong at the Wen Shui Pavilion this afternoon.

　　He couldn't believe how arrogant Anfu Junzhu was. She dared to publicly humiliate a palace official in the East Palace. It was unbelievable.

　　He didn't know what would happen tomorrow.

　　They were all from powerful and respected families in the capital. You couldn't beat them or punish them, and there was even a Junzhu with a title. Yun Shanggong was probably no match for them alone.

　　After speaking, Grand Eunuch An looked up and asked tentatively, “Should your Highness go take a look?”

　　Xie Jue's expression remained unchanged, and he didn't even stop writing. “Go for what?”

　　“To see the...situation.”

　　Anfu Junzhu clearly slapped the East Palace in the face.

　　Xie Jue lifted his eyelids slightly, “Nonsense, if she can't handle a few noble ladies, she shouldn't be the Shanggong!”

　　If she wanted to, she could handle not only Anfu Junzhu but also a few more with ease. (T/N: Oh? Then you'll blame her for abusing her power. What a despicable prince!)

　　An Zhong's cold sweat dripped down his back, “Yes, yes. I have seen Yun Shanggong's abilities. It's just that I was worried she wouldn't be able to handle it today. I spoke out of turn.”

　　No wonder Yun Shanggong hadn't sent anyone to report the matter. He had truly spoken out of turn.

　　“I hope Anfu Junzhu doesn't cause any more trouble. I'll take my leave, Your Highness.”

　　He was just about to turn and leave when a ‘snap’ sound came from behind him. Xie Jue put down his red brush and asked without any emotion, “When is the flower feast tomorrow?”

　　Grand Eunuch An quickly replied, “At the hour of the Dragon.” (between 7:00 am and 9:00 am.)

　　Xie Jue: “Tomorrow, you'll go with me to take a look.”

　　——

　　The next morning, in the Imperial Garden.

　　The noble ladies were invited and took their seats one by one. Tea and snacks were already laid out on the tables.

　　They had been sitting for over half an hour, but they hadn't seen Yun Shanggong. They were just left sitting there awkwardly.

　　Gradually, a few of the young ladies started to get restless. Their faces were filled with anxiety, and they looked around nervously.

　　One of them whispered, “Why hasn't Yun Gugu come yet?”

　　“Keep your voice down. Don't you remember what she said yesterday?”

　　“Although she's the Shanggong, this… is this part of the assessment?”

　　“It was Anfu Junzhu who offended her yesterday, not us. Why is she putting on airs?”

　　“Forget it. After this flower feast, His Highness will grant us a position. How can she dare to talk back to us then? We'll see if she still dares to be arrogant!” (T/N: LoL. Please keep daydreaming.)

　　Anfu Junzhu's expression turned even worse. She thought Yun Shanggong must have held a grudge against her after yesterday's incident. This was clearly a deliberate attempt to put her in her place.

　　But after yesterday's incident, she didn't dare to act rashly.

　　Discontent was already etched on her face.

　　Just as they couldn't help but whisper and grumble, a sharp voice suddenly cut through the air, “His Royal Highness the Crown Prince has arrived!”

　　Everyone's expressions changed instantly, and they stopped moving.

　　The Crown Prince had actually come!

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