Beyond the southern mountains of Muxing City lay Yuan County, famed for its precious blood ginseng that grew on perilous cliffs. Ever since Court Physician Wei Hongfei praised its medicinal wonders, the county officials had been forcing villagers to harvest it — men and women risking their lives on jagged rocks. Many never returned, their families left in ruin.
Among the palace dancers, many came from these broken families. The court judge, believing resentment brewed among them, suspected they had a hand in Wei Hongfei’s death.
Prince Gong Qi Zhen looked toward Ji Bozai with concern.
“In that case, Ji, you should be careful.”
Ji Bozai merely smiled, swirling his wine.
“If they hated anyone, it should be the county officials, not Wei Hongfei. Besides, more than one person died that night. The reasoning doesn’t hold.”
Liang Xiuyuan snorted.
“You’re blinded by beauty, Ji. You’d sooner doubt heaven itself than that little dancer of yours. When your funeral comes, at least we’ll have wine and company.”
Yan Xiao shook his head as laughter rippled around the table. Ji Bozai ignored them, feeding the beauty in his lap two cups of wine before asking idly,
“How did you even know the one I brought home was from Yuan County?”
Shu Zhonglin grinned.
“Lord Ji, do you think your affairs stay secret? The moment you left the inner court, every noble had your little beauty’s past traced. Helps us find women to your liking next time.”
“My father’s already gathered three or four that resemble her — waiting for you,” he added with a chuckle.
Yan Xiao tossed peanuts into his mouth, speaking lazily.
“Even I know she’s a farmer’s daughter from Yuan County. Lost her father two years ago, wandered into the city, and somehow caught your eye. Poor thing.”
He smirked.
“If you tire of her one day, tell me. I’ll take her in as a maid.”
Ji Bozai shot him a cold look.
“Don’t even think about it. She’s mine.”
Yan Xiao raised a brow.
“Relax, I’m just worried about her future. You never keep your toys for long.”
Ji Bozai only laughed softly. Mingyi wasn’t helpless — greedy, yes, but clever. Even if he grew bored one day, she’d leave him rich enough to live comfortably for life.
The thought stirred something wickedly pleasant in him. He drew the wine server closer and kissed her, the taste of wine and laughter mixing between them.
The Morning After
When Mingyi finally stirred awake, her limbs ached deliciously. The maids entered with warm water, but she only smiled shyly.
“I can manage on my own.”
Matron Xun, noticing the faint red marks on her skin, said nothing and ushered everyone out.
Once alone, the shyness vanished. Mingyi stretched lazily, humming a tune as she combed her hair.
So those sisters in the inner court hadn’t lied — Ji Bozai truly was unmatched in bed. Her lips curved in satisfaction. For a first experience, it hadn’t been bad at all. Still, curiosity glimmered in her eyes. Someday, she might compare him with others — just to see.
Dressed in a vermilion undergarment, she slipped to the window, eyes darting around the courtyard. When no one was looking, she climbed out.
Years of training made her swift and silent. In moments, she was inside Ji Bozai’s study, rifling through shelves and drawers. But whatever she sought wasn’t there. Just as she turned to leave, voices approached.
Startled, Mingyi vaulted up onto a roof beam, her crimson silk blending with the painted rafters.
“Careful, My Lord,” a woman’s voice cooed.
The wine server from last night entered, supporting a clearly tipsy Ji Bozai.
He laughed, his voice thick with drink.
“You’re ruthless — getting even Prince Gong drunk tonight.”
“I know his weakness,” the wine server giggled. “I betrayed my master for you, My Lord.”
Her body brushed against his. He caressed her cheek lazily.
Mingyi, watching from above, rolled her eyes.
This man changes women faster than he changes robes.
They had just shared a bed, and already he was toying with another.
Even a pig had more restraint.
“Aren’t you thinking of that beauty back home?” the wine server teased.
“You’re beautiful too,” he murmured, undoing her sash.
“Then tell me, My Lord—who’s more beautiful, me or her?”
Mingyi’s patience snapped.
You, your whole family, and your ancestors are beautiful, she cursed silently.
But Ji Bozai’s expression cooled.
“Jealousy isn’t amusing.”
The wine server blanched.
“I won’t ask again. Please don’t be angry, My Lord.”
He waved a hand lazily.
“You’re drunk too. I’ll have you sent to the back courtyard. When I have time, I’ll come find you.”
Delighted, the woman bowed deeply and left, glancing back with every step.
When the door finally closed, Ji Bozai exhaled, rubbing his temples.
“Matron Xun.”
“This old servant is here.”
“Is Lady Yi awake?”
“Yes, My Lord. She’s preparing to dress.”
He nodded, standing slowly.
“I’ll go see her.”
Above, Mingyi froze. See me? Again?
Sweat dampened her back as panic kicked in. The moment he stepped out, she dropped soundlessly from the beam and darted to the window, scaling the wall in one graceful motion.
By the time Ji Bozai entered the main courtyard, Mingyi was already gone.
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