Female-dominated society: Striving for the position of powerful minister, doting on Xiao Yunqing

“We are the only two male officials in the court. If we were to disappear abruptly from the Zhang residence, it would attract attention, and she would certainly not dare to make a move.” Mu Yunqing said in a deep voice, “However… I’m afraid we won’t be able to go back tonight.”

“Lord Mu is absolutely right.” Shen Chenxi paced around the room, pondering a solution. “Since she dared to drug the wine, she must have come prepared. But if she simply wanted to recruit you and me into the army, why go to such lengths?”

“So her purpose goes far beyond that,” Mu Yunqing said. “The only thing we can be sure of is that she won’t act rashly, and neither of us is in immediate danger.”

“That’s strange…” Shen Chenxi said, “Zhang Xunyu went to great lengths to trap us here, surely he couldn’t have been without a purpose.”

Mu Yunqing put down his teacup and said meaningfully, "You'll know when you return to the manor tomorrow."

"Does Lord Mu mean you're not planning to leave tonight?"

"Leave?" Mu Yunqing scoffed. "The doors and windows are sealed shut. How can you possibly leave? Does Lord Shen possess some kind of earth-遁 (earth-遁 is a type of magic that allows one to escape) technique?"

"Lord Mu is always good at teasing me," Shen Chenxi said with a smile, "but this technique of escaping underground is not impossible."

Mu Yunqing pointed to the shovel in the corner and said, "If Lord Shen thinks it's feasible, let's start working immediately. If we wait any longer, it will be dawn."

“I can’t do such a chore,” Shen Chenxi said, feigning weakness. “Looking at the sky, my head is starting to ache even more.”

Mu Yunqing's eyes flickered slightly, and he leaned closer to him, saying, "Lord Shen, I have a plan."

"What kind of strategy is it?"

"I'll pretend to be exhausted and go out to check things out. You stay in the room and see if you can find any clues." Mu Yunqing handed the signal flare to Shen Chenxi and whispered, "If there's any danger, send it, and I'll come back to save you."

Before Shen Chenxi could answer, Mu Yunqing took a deep breath and suddenly shouted, "Oh dear... why am I so dizzy!" As he spoke, he pretended to stumble and slammed his head against the door.

Hearing the commotion, the servant outside hurriedly opened the door and said, "Sir, what's wrong? Should I go and fetch a doctor?"

Mu Yunqing waved his hand and said, "No need, just help me outside for some fresh air."

"Yes," the servant replied, helping the person out and making sure to close the door tightly behind him.

"Help me to that place," Mu Yunqing said, pointing to the pavilion in the distance.

“Yes, sir.” The attendant did as he was told, helping the man to the pavilion and saying respectfully, “Please rest here for a while. If you feel unwell, please call me anytime.”

“Hmm,” Mu Yunqing said, “You may leave now.”

"Yes."

After Mu Yunqing saw him leave, she narrowed her eyes and continued to observe the surrounding movements.

There was nothing unusual about the surroundings, except for the faint sound of music and dancing coming from afar.

There weren't even many guards.

It seems they've concluded that the two of them wouldn't dare to escape.

Before long, the servant came again and said softly, "Sir, it's late. Let me help you back to your room."

Feeling that the effects of the medicine had worn off somewhat, Mu Yunqing opened her eyes and said, "Okay, thank you for your trouble."

“You’re too kind, sir,” the servant said, helping him up. “It’s my duty.” He then helped him back into the room and locked the door again.

Mu Yunqing said, "Just now I pretended to rest, but actually I was paying attention to the movements outside and did not find anything unusual."

“There’s nothing unusual inside,” Shen Chenxi said, glancing at the incense sticks on the table. “At this point, there’s probably no more to be done. Let’s rest here and make plans for tomorrow.”

"Alright."

_

The two were woken up early the next morning by a knock on the door.

Mu Yunqing was startled and hurriedly pulled Shen Chenxi up. After they were dressed, they slowly walked towards the door.

The door lock was open; with just a gentle tug, a smiling face appeared outside.

"Did you two sleep well last night?" Zhang Xunyu asked.

"Thank you for your concern, Lord Zhang," Mu Yunqing said, observing Zhang Xunyu with a calm and respectful tone. "I slept very well last night."

"That's good. I was worried that the servants might have neglected you two." Zhang Xunyu feigned concern. "The wine last night was indeed a bit strong. Are you two feeling unwell?"

Shen Chenxi sneered inwardly, but maintained a smile on his face. "Lord Zhang is too kind. This wine, though strong, has given us a glimpse into the treasures of Lord Zhang's household. But... I wonder what brings Lord Zhang here so early?"

“Nothing important,” she said. “I just prepared a simple meal and would like to invite you two to dine together.”

Upon hearing this, the two exchanged a glance, both understanding what was going on.

Shen Chenxi said, "Since Lord Zhang is so hospitable, it would be impolite of us to refuse."

"Then let's go."

"Lord Zhang, please." Mu Yunqing turned slightly to the side and gestured for him to enter.

Zhang Xunyu did not refuse, nodded slightly, and walked forward.

_

膳厅

The three sat down at the table. Looking at the delicious dishes, Shen Chenxi praised, "Lord Zhang, this table of food is truly sumptuous."

“We should certainly put some effort into entertaining you two,” Zhang Xunyu said, raising his hand to pour tea for them.

"Thank you, Lord Zhang." Shen Chenxi picked up his teacup, took a sip, and then put it down, his gaze falling on Zhang Xunyu. "Lord Zhang, let's get straight to the point. This dinner party today is probably more than just a meal."

"You're quite a smart person."

"Lord Zhang is too kind," Shen Chenxi chuckled lightly, his expression composed. "However, we are not fools, and we can guess a bit of what Lord Zhang is thinking."

Zhang Xunyu asked, "So, what have you two decided?"

Shen Chenxi was about to make a sarcastic remark when Mu Yunqing pinched his leg hard, so he had to swallow his words and change his tune: "Does Lord Zhang mean... that Lord Mu and I should submit to you?"

"How can you call this surrender, Lord Shen?" she said humbly. "It's just sticking together for warmth, so we can help each other out when things go wrong, don't you think?"

"Lord Zhang is joking." Mu Yunqing put down his teacup, looked directly at Zhang Xunyu, his gaze sharp as an eagle. "Lord Shen and I are both His Majesty's subjects, so it is only right that we share His Majesty's burdens. Besides, the world is at peace now, and the people are happy, so why should we huddle together with Lord Zhang for warmth?"

Zhang Xunyu's eyes turned cold, but his face still held a smile. "The world is indeed peaceful and harmonious, but the officialdom is not the same as the world. Why don't you two think about this more carefully?"

"The officialdom is not like the world, what brilliant idea does Lord Zhang have?" Shen Chenxi said calmly, not at all affected by Zhang Xunyu's imposing manner.

“Now that Elder Shen has stepped down, powerful clans are eyeing him covetously,” Zhang Xunyu threatened. “When you two are opposed by the officials, don’t blame me for not helping you.”

Mu Yunqing chuckled, picked up his teacup and took a sip, saying, "Thank you for the reminder, Lord Zhang. However, Lord Shen and I have acted uprightly and honestly, so why should we fear the opposition of others?"

“Lord Mu is right. The two of you have reached your current positions because you are honest and upright.” Zhang Xunyu deliberately emphasized the last two words, and then said, “However, who can be without fault in this world?” She turned to look at Mu Yunqing, her tone carrying a hint of disdain, “Unless Lord Mu can guarantee that he will not commit the slightest mistake during his time in office.”

"As Lord Zhang also said, who among the living is without fault?" He put down his teacup, looked calmly at Zhang Xunyu, and slowly said, "I am just an ordinary person, and of course I am not without fault."

“Heh,” Zhang Xunyu laughed, “It seems you’re a sensible person. Forming an alliance with me will certainly bring benefits to both of you.”

"Lord Zhang and Lord Shen appreciate your kindness. However, as members of the court, we should prioritize the nation's interests. How can we form alliances with others for our own selfish gain?"

“You two are truly men of noble character,” she said.

"You flatter me, Lord Zhang." Shen Chenxi smiled gently, but his eyes were extremely cold. "However, there is still one thing we do not understand, and we hope that you can enlighten us, Lord Zhang."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Xunyu's expression immediately turned cold. He was just a sixth-rank official who couldn't even step into the Zhang residence normally. What right did he have to interrogate her step by step?

If she hadn't been forced by circumstances, she would never have lowered herself to talk to the two of them.

Thinking of this, she smiled again and said, "Whatever you two want to know, I will answer to the best of my knowledge."

“You are openly forming factions,” Shen Chenxi said bluntly, “Aren’t you afraid His Majesty will find out? Or is it that Lord Zhang doesn’t respect His Majesty?”

“Lord Shen, you misunderstand. It was just an ordinary family dinner. How could it be considered forming factions?” Zhang Xunyu said. “On the contrary, Lord Shen, please don’t make unfounded accusations against me.”

“Why pretend to be stupid, Lord Zhang?” Shen Chenxi slowly straightened his sleeves, then crossed his arms and looked at her with a leisurely air. “We both understand your thoughts, so you don’t need to beat around the bush anymore.”

Zhang Xunyu's smile vanished, and he said coldly, "Lord Shen seems to harbor great hostility towards me."

“Lord Zhang, you flatter me. I have no hostility towards you, but…” Shen Chenxi paused deliberately, his deep eyes seemingly seeing through everything, “There are some things that, once done, are hard to escape.”

"I don't know what Lord Shen is talking about," she said in a deep voice. "If there's nothing urgent, please leave!"

"Is Lord Zhang trying to send Lord Mu and me away?" Shen Chenxi chuckled and said, "Very well, since Lord Zhang is unwilling to say more, then we will not stay any longer. Farewell."

Zhang Xunyu was furious and squeezed out a few words through gritted teeth, "Please take care, both of you."

_

The two walked out of the Zhang residence side by side.

"Why did you deliberately provoke her?" Mu Yunqing asked.

Shen Chenxi said calmly, "If I don't provoke her, how can we get away?"

"You know she won't make things difficult for you, so why are you still insisting on doing this?" Mu Yunqing questioned, "Shen Chenxi, what exactly do you want to do?"

"What does Lord Mu think I want to do?"

"I dare not presume to guess what Lord Shen is thinking," Mu Yunqing said with dissatisfaction, "but you were far too impulsive in what you did today."

"Impulsive?" Shen Chenxi said dismissively, leaning closer to Mu Yunqing and whispering, "If you hadn't stopped me, I could have been even more impulsive."

"Do you have a grudge against her?"

Shen Chenxi lowered his eyes and remained silent, walking forward on his own.

“Zhang Xunyu is an ambitious man, and his heart is to be destroyed,” Mu Yunqing said. “If you want to get rid of him, it will not be easy. After all, His Majesty still trusts him quite a bit.”

“Lord Mu is overthinking it,” he said. “She has no grudge against me, so why would I want to get rid of her?”

“Since we have no grudges against each other, let’s not meddle in other people’s business,” Mu Yunqing pushed the person into the carriage again. “It’s better to avoid trouble. Since we live outside the palace, it’s best to stay away from some things.”

Shen Chenxi glanced at him sideways, a hint of amusement in her eyes, "If I really have a grudge against her, what would Lord Mu say?"

"Then all I can say is, when will this grudge end?" Mu Yunqing patted his shoulder and said, "However, I can see that you have no hatred towards her."

He paused for a moment, then added, "So, let's not bring this up again. We'll talk about it when we get back."

_

Prime Minister's Mansion

Feeling stifled inside, Mu Yan decided to have her desk moved to the courtyard.

Right now, I'm painting in the warm sunshine.

With just a few strokes, several withered branches appeared on the paper.

Xiangqin looked up at the paulownia tree in the courtyard and exclaimed in surprise, "Master, you painted a paulownia tree!"

"You actually noticed," she said. "It seems my drawing skills aren't too bad after all."

“What are you saying, Master?” Xiangqin said. “You have been learning these skills since you were a child, how could your painting skills be poor?”

Mu Yan: "..."

You should take a closer look before praising someone.

"Third Miss," the servant outside the door said, "Young Master Li requests an audience."

"Go and have a look."

"Yes."

Xiangqin responded and got up to greet the person. When she reached the door, she saw an extremely handsome face.

The man had a face as smooth as cream and eyes as black as lacquer. He smiled very gently and wore a long blue satin robe underneath an exquisite white fox fur coat. The fox fur was as white as snow, which made him look even more aloof and noble.

The servants following behind carefully carried the medicine.

Xiangqin curtsied and said, "My master is unwell and unable to receive guests. I hope Young Master Li will not take offense."

“Miss Mu is seriously injured, so I will not blame her,” Li Yunxi said gently. “Please inform her so that I can visit her.”

"No need to announce your arrival," Xiangqin said with a smile. "The master is naturally pleased that you have come. Please come in with me!"

Li Yunxi replied "Okay" and entered the room with Xiangqin.

Upon entering the courtyard, Li Yunxi saw Mu Yan painting and a hint of joy flashed in her eyes. She bowed and said, "Yunxi greets Miss Mu."

“No need for formalities,” Mu Yan said, pointing to the stool beside her. “Sit there.”

"Miss Mu, are you feeling any better?"

Mu Yan looked up and smiled gently, "Thank you for your concern, Young Master Li. I'm much better now."

Li Yunxi gestured to the servants to present the medicine, "This medicine is quite effective for the Third Miss's illness. If you don't mind, please accept it."

"Then thank you very much, Young Master Li," Mu Yan replied, and asked Xiang Qin to put the medicine away.

"You're too kind," Li Yunxi said, walking over to her side and looking at the painting on the table. "Miss Mu, is this the sycamore tree in front of the courtyard?"

Mu Yan nodded and raised her hand to put the scroll away. She knew her painting skills were not good enough and really didn't want to offend the eyes of this talented scholar Li.

“Miss Mu San’s drawing of these branches is quite profound,” he praised. “Although the branches are intricate and compact, they are all independent and live on their own. They are of different directions and lengths, but they do not appear to be far apart. They are close but not dependent on each other. It is truly wonderful.”

Mu Yan paused in putting away the painting, looking at him with some surprise.

He actually revealed the deeper meaning of the painting, rather than simply flattering and exaggerating.

"Why are you looking at me like that, Miss Mu?" Li Yunxi said hurriedly, "Did Yunxi... say something wrong?"

“No,” Mu Yan said, “What you said is almost identical to what I drew.”