Jade of Another World

Everyone gathered at the Prince's mansion. The warm charcoal fire in the main hall dispelled the winter chill, and the atmosphere was harmonious and lively. Xuan Yuanche smiled and said loudly, "Today, everyone is gathered here with me. If you want to eat anything, just say the word, and I will tell the kitchen to prepare it."

Lin Ning's eyes lit up, and she blurted out instinctively, "Actually, hot pot is the best thing to eat on a day like this!" As soon as the words left her mouth, she realized that hot pot didn't seem to exist in this world. Everyone looked at each other, their eyes full of confusion. Lin Ning immediately felt embarrassed and hurriedly waved her hands to explain, "I... I was just kidding, any simple home-cooked meal will do."

Xuanyuan Che, however, became interested and waved his hand, "Hey, no problem! It sounds novel and interesting. Let's have hot pot today." With that, he immediately summoned the cook. The cook rushed over, and upon hearing that they were making "hot pot," he looked completely bewildered, scratching his head and asking, "Your Highness, what... what is hot pot? I've never heard of it before. I hope Your Highness can enlighten me." The cook stood there, both nervous and curious, his eyes fixed on Xuanyuan Che, waiting for the prince to answer his questions.

Seeing the blank and curious looks on everyone's faces, Lin Ning cleared her throat and began to explain in detail how to make hot pot: "First, you need to prepare a pot with charcoal burning in the middle. It's best to make a copper pot because it conducts heat quickly. Then prepare all kinds of ingredients. For example, slices of mutton and beef should be cut as thin as cicada wings so that they cook easily when cooked. There are also various kinds of meatballs, but Da Yu doesn't have them. You can prepare fish slices instead. Skewer chicken pieces with bamboo skewers. Vegetables are also essential, such as cabbage, spinach, and mushrooms. Wash and cut them up and set them aside. Also prepare some tofu, potatoes, sweet potatoes, etc., cut into thick slices to make the texture richer."

"Next, make a dipping sauce. Mix sesame paste, chive blossoms, chili oil, garlic, and other ingredients according to your own taste. This is the soul of hot pot. Then, heat the charcoal fire until the water or broth in the pot boils. You can then put the ingredients into the pot one by one to cook. After they are cooked, take them out and dip them in the sauce. The taste is absolutely amazing." Lin Ning said, swallowing hard.

Everyone understood immediately. Xuanyuan Che smiled and said to the chef, "Prepare as Miss Lin instructed. I want to try this novel hot pot." The chef, receiving the order, didn't dare delay and quickly went to prepare. Soon, an exquisite charcoal-fired copper pot was placed in the center of the table, the broth inside already boiling, bubbling and gurgling as if beckoning everyone. The table beside it was laden with plates of sliced ​​meat, vegetables, fish fillets, chicken skewers, and other ingredients, their vibrant colors making them incredibly tempting. Everyone sat around the table, their eyes filled with curiosity and anticipation, picking up their chopsticks, ready to begin this unique hot pot feast.

The charcoal fire was blazing, and the broth in the copper pot bubbled and steamed, casting a rosy glow on everyone's faces. At first, faced with this novel way of eating that they had never seen before, everyone was a little at a loss, their chopsticks hovering in mid-air, their eyes filled with a mixture of bewilderment and curiosity, all turning to look at Lin Ning.

Lin Ning felt a little embarrassed by the stares, so she first demonstrated by picking up a slice of mutton as thin as rice paper and gently placing it into the pot. The mutton changed color instantly, and she slowly shook it. When it was cooked, she scooped it out, rolled it in the sesame sauce, and put it in her mouth, squinting her eyes in satisfaction: "Mmm, it's so delicious, everyone should try it."

Xuan Yuanche was the first to respond, following suit and picking up a slice of beef. He carefully dipped it into the pot, his eyes fixed on the meat. As it gradually curled up, he quickly scooped it out, dipped it in the sauce, and put it in his mouth. Instantly, the hot, spicy, and savory flavor exploded on his tongue, and he couldn't help but exclaim, "Wonderful! This way of eating is both interesting and delicious!" Seeing this, the others also got to work. In no time, chopsticks rose and fell, and tender slices of meat, crisp vegetables, chewy fish slices, and chicken pieces were all thrown into the pot and then happily jumped into their respective bowls.

Laughter and chatter filled the air along with the lively meal. Everyone chatted and shared the flavors of the food, occasionally jokingly arguing over a freshly cooked slice of meat. At this moment, a maid brought out several jugs of finely brewed plum wine, adding to the pleasant atmosphere of the feast. The sweet and slightly sour plum wine slid down the throat, neutralizing the spiciness of the hot pot and leaving everyone feeling refreshed. As everyone ate and drank, the atmosphere grew increasingly joyful. Even when a light sweat appeared on their foreheads and their bellies were full, they were reluctant to put down their chopsticks, completely immersed in this unique and perfect gathering.

The hall was warm and inviting, the flickering lamplight illuminating flushed faces. After several rounds of fine wine, everyone's spirits rose higher and higher, laughter and chatter rising and falling as if to lift the roof off the mansion. Peng Yingchun, naturally lively, was even more enthusiastic now that the wine was intoxicating. The two exchanged a knowing glance and rose from their seats.

Yingchun, with her graceful figure, took the lead in dancing, her flowing sleeves like light clouds emerging from a mountain peak, her nimble steps creating a joyful rhythm. Liu Si clapped her hands to keep time, her clear and melodious voice flowing from her lips, the gentle tune lingering between the beams and pillars. For a moment, the singing and dancing complemented each other beautifully, adding a touch of enchanting charm to this lively gathering.

Lin Ning leaned back in her chair, a half-empty glass of plum wine still in her hand, a smile unconsciously playing on her lips, her eyes brimming with joy. Looking at the vibrant and enthusiastic faces before her, a warm feeling welled up inside her. When she first arrived in this strange world, she was filled with fear and unease, constantly plotting her escape. But now, sitting together with these friends, sharing food, enjoying songs and dances, their laughter filled with genuine affection. She silently thought that although this journey through time had been fraught with difficulties, making these like-minded friends was an unexpected joy, and it was all worthwhile.

Lin Ning was perceptive. Noticing that Liu Si kept glancing at Peng Yingchun, looking like he wanted to say something but hesitated, she understood what was going on. She gently nudged Xuan Yuanche beside her, tilted her head to indicate the doorway, and whispered, "It's a bit stuffy in here, let's go out to the yard for some fresh air."

Xuan Yuanche, being incredibly astute, instantly understood Lin Ning's meaning. He smiled, stood up, and said loudly, "It's time to go out and sober up. This room is too warm; it'll be good to get some fresh air." With that, the two of them tacitly left their seats and headed for the door.

With a creak, the door slowly closed, separating the interior from the courtyard into two worlds. Moonlight streamed into the courtyard, bathing the stone path and scattered greenery in tranquil beauty. Xuan Yuanche and Lin Ning strolled to the covered walkway. He casually picked up a round fan from the stone table, gently stroking the hanging plants beneath, and jokingly remarked, seemingly nonchalantly, "I hope Brother Liu can take this opportunity to speak his mind. They've really gone through a lot." Lin Ning smiled and nodded, her gaze lingering through the carved doors and windows, subtly hoping for good news from inside.

The door was slightly ajar, shutting out the noise of the room. The room instantly fell silent, save for the occasional soft crackling of the charcoal fire. Peng Yingchun looked at Liu Si with a hint of doubt, about to ask a question, when Liu Si cleared his throat nervously before he could, his hands unconsciously clenching the hem of his clothes, his usual carefree demeanor completely gone.

"Yingchun..." Liu Si finally found his voice, but found his throat was terribly dry. He could only swallow and say again, "Yingchun, it's been so long, there are some things I've been wanting to tell you." He raised his head slightly, his gaze meeting Peng Yingchun's bright eyes, and his heart began to beat faster uncontrollably.

Peng Yingchun was somewhat flustered by his earnest demeanor. She subconsciously twisted the handkerchief in her hand and softly hummed in acknowledgment, signaling him to continue. Liu Si took a deep breath, as if summoning immense courage, and took a small step forward, shortening the distance between them: "Ever since we met, we've been through so much together… Every time I see you, I feel at peace. I know I've missed out on a lot before, but my feelings for you are truly sincere."

Two blushes crept onto Peng Yingchun's cheeks. She lowered her eyes, not daring to meet Liu Si's ardent gaze for too long, and said reproachfully, "What's wrong with you today? Why are you suddenly bringing this up..." Though she said this, her face was red. Seeing this, Liu Si became even bolder, grabbing Peng Yingchun's hand. Her hands were soft and warm, making his heart tremble. "I like you, Yingchun. Not the kind of liking between friends, but the liking of wanting to protect and cherish you for the rest of my life. Are you willing?"

Yingchun seemed to remember something, and her eyes instantly dimmed. Her past entanglements with the Crown Prince were like a dark cloud, shrouding her heart. She slowly withdrew her hand, turned her head away, and said in a low, hoarse voice with a hint of bitterness, "Liu Si, you know about my past, and my relationship with the Crown Prince... I'm afraid of dragging you down, and I'm also afraid that this will be another mistake."

Liu Si stepped forward, turned her shoulder, and forced Peng Yingchun to look him in the eye. His eyes burned with a fierce flame, showing no sign of backing down: "I don't care about any of that! The past is the past. All I care about is you. From beginning to end, you're the only person in my heart." He spoke with unwavering resolve, each word carrying weight.

Tears welled up in Yingchun's eyes as she stammered, "But I..." Liu Si interrupted her directly, gripping her arms tightly as if to convey his resolve through his palms: "You don't need to rush to respond. My mind is made up. As long as you don't agree, I will wait, even if it takes a lifetime, I will be willing."

Yingchun looked up and met his gaze, which was full of determination and deep affection. It felt as if the softest part of her heart had been struck hard. After hesitating for a long time, she finally nodded gently: "Then... let's get to know each other first. If we both feel it's right, then we can talk about marriage."

Liu Si was taken aback at first, then reacted, his face instantly breaking into a joyful smile. He pulled Peng Yingchun into a tight embrace, his strength so great it seemed he wanted to meld her into his very bones. At that moment, all the noise of the outside world vanished, time seemed to stand still, only two passionate hearts remained intertwined, feeling each other's surging heartbeats.

The gentle moonlight bathed the courtyard of the Prince's mansion. Lin Ning and Xuan Yuanche strolled along the corridor, a light breeze causing their clothes to flutter.

Xuan Yuanche broke the silence first, toying with a jade pendant in his hand, and casually said, "Lin Ning, sometimes I really feel that you're unusually calm for someone from here." He then looked up at Lin Ning with a half-smile, a hint of inquiry in his eyes. Lin Ning's heart clenched, but she forced a calm expression, replying with a laugh, "What you're saying... I just have some novel ideas, not as calm as you make me out to be."

Xuanyuan Che raised an eyebrow slightly, not delving into the matter, and changed the subject: "No matter what, you've always been so special. Take this hot pot for example, it's absolutely wonderful." Lin Ning breathed a sigh of relief and smiled: "Good food is meant to be shared, as long as Your Highness and your friends enjoy it. This is the way I learned to eat from my master in the mountains when I was raised in the countryside."

The two strolled to the small pond in the courtyard. Xuan Yuanche bent down, picked up a small pebble, and tossed it into the water, creating ripples. He turned his head slightly, his expression becoming somewhat solemn: "Lin Ning, the political situation in the court is currently turbulent. Although the epidemic has passed, various forces are waiting for an opportunity to act. From now on, you must be more careful in everything you do." Lin Ning felt a warmth in her heart and nodded in response: "Thank you for the reminder. I had no intention of getting involved in those conflicts; I only hoped to protect my own little world."

At this point, Xuan Yuanche seemed to remember something, and a mischievous smile appeared on his lips: "Speaking of which, have you heard about His Majesty's marriage to Consort Xian?" Lin Ning tilted her head and thought for a moment: "Yes, the princess told me."

"Oh? So they sent the princess to test us."

Lin Ning smiled, pretending not to understand.

"You don't seem to care?" Xuan Yuanche asked.

"Should I care?" Lin Ning asked Xuan Yuanche.

Xuan Yuanche felt uncomfortable under the gaze. He nervously said, "It's best if you don't mind."

"Oh?"

"I wonder if you would still be indifferent if I were to take a concubine in the future," Xuan Yuanche muttered to himself.

"Of course I care about that. I even hope I can help you choose," Lin Ning replied with a smile.

"I don't need your help to choose..." "I just want to choose you..." But the last sentence was never spoken.

The two laughed heartily, and the atmosphere relaxed once again.

Some were happy while others were sad. Lin Ning, Xuan Yuanche, Liu Si, and Peng Yingchun were overjoyed, while Liu Yushu was furious. News spread from the palace that His Majesty would be hosting a banquet in the palace to celebrate the great victory against the epidemic and to invite the heroes who had contributed to the fight against the epidemic. However, Liu Yushu had angered His Majesty before, resulting in the entire Liu family not receiving any invitations.

When Liu Yushu heard the news, she was meticulously dressing up. She had hoped to use this palace banquet to showcase her beauty and rekindle His Majesty's attention. But the news her maidservant stammered out was like a thunderclap, instantly shattering all her expectations.

"What? The Liu family didn't receive an invitation?" Liu Yushu stood up abruptly, her exquisitely made-up face filled with disbelief. Her carefully styled hair swayed a few times from the sudden movement, and a few strands fell down in disarray. She snatched the letter from the maid's hand, staring wide-eyed at it repeatedly, as if she could change its contents by looking at it a few more times.

After confirming everything was correct, Liu Yushu trembled with rage. She clenched the message slip in her hand into a tight ball, gritting her teeth as she said, "Just because of such a trivial matter?" She paced back and forth in the room, her steps hurried and chaotic, her skirt kicking wildly. Thinking of how other families were joyfully preparing for their banquets while she was left stranded in this cold, quiet room, her eyes reddened, a mixture of resentment and anger threatening to consume her. "No, I must find a way. I can't just be forgotten like this!" Liu Yushu clenched her fists, silently vowing, her eyes flashing with a resolute and frantic light.

Liu Yushu paced back and forth in her room, racking her brains for a solution. Suddenly, her eyes lit up as she thought of her cousin in the palace. This cousin had always been close to her, and although her rank in the palace wasn't high, she still had influence. Liu Yushu immediately wrote a letter of appeal, her words earnest and full of grievance, and secretly sent it to her most clever maid. In the letter, she pleaded with her cousin to help her, even if it meant sneaking into the banquet as a personal maid; as long as she could get in, she would still have a chance to appear before the Emperor.

After sending the letter, Liu Yushu became restless, her eyes constantly glancing towards the door, anxiously awaiting a reply. Every minute and second felt incredibly long. Sometimes she would pick up a comb from the dressing table and mechanically comb her already smooth hair, and other times she would walk to the window, push the window frame open a crack, and peer towards the courtyard gate.

Finally, the maid returned, and Liu Yushu rushed forward, anxiously asking, "How did it go? What did my cousin say?" The maid, panting from running, caught her breath before replying, "Miss, Miss received the letter. She only said she would try her best, but wasn't entirely confident. She told you not to rush and to wait for her news." Liu Yushu was very worried upon hearing this. Although she hadn't been directly rejected, this ambiguous answer made her uneasy.

She slumped into her chair, her heart pounding with anxiety. If her cousin failed, this hard-won opportunity to appear before the Emperor would be completely lost. But at this moment, she had no choice but to wait. Liu Yushu gripped the handkerchief tightly in her hand, her knuckles turning white from the force, silently praying that her cousin would have the power to help her open the door to the palace banquet.

Liu Yushu's cousin was considered one of Consort Xi's people. She told Consort Xi about this matter. Consort Xi was thinking that since Consort De and Consort Zhao were so close, she also needed to cultivate her own power base, and Liu Yushu seemed to be a suitable candidate. Therefore, she sent an invitation to Liu Yushu to a banquet.

Upon receiving the response from Consort Xi, Liu Yushu's cousin dared not delay for a moment and immediately sent someone to deliver the precious invitation letter to Liu Yushu's residence. At that time, Liu Yushu was filled with worries and sighing in his room. When he saw the letter bearing the unique imperial seal, his eyes widened instantly, and he hurriedly tore it open.

"My cousin actually succeeded! And she even won the favor of Consort Xi..." Liu Yushu was both surprised and delighted. Her fingers lightly traced the gorgeous handwriting on the letter, as if she had grasped a lifeline. Her previously dim eyes regained their brilliance, and she hurriedly called her maid, excitedly instructing, "Quickly, prepare my clothes and jewelry for the banquet, the best of everything!"

The maids bustled about, turning the wardrobes upside down, revealing various silks, satins, gold, and jewels. Liu Yushu stood amidst this pile of exquisite garments, carefully selecting each piece. With each item she picked up, images flashed through her mind of outshining all the other women at the banquet and regaining the Emperor's attention. She knew that the Consort Xi's offer was both an opportunity and a challenge. If she performed well at the banquet, with the Consort's backing, she would have no worries about receiving favor; but if she made a mistake, she might never recover. But at this moment, ambition and anticipation completely overwhelmed any trepidation in her heart; Liu Yushu was filled with the excitement of her impending triumph.