Chapter 21: Among Peonies
At the entrance of the Ye residence Ye Li had scarcely crossed the threshold when she encountered Ye Ying approaching with studied grace, attended by her retinue of maids like a constellation orbiting its brightest star. Behind her trailed Ye Lin and Ye Shan, their faces illuminated with joy—it seemed the vexing matter of the Hundred Flowers Festival invitations had found resolution. Ye Li maintained only the most tenuous familiarity with these younger half-sisters. Even when they occasionally orchestrated small cruelties to curry favor with Wang Shi, she typically dismissed such offenses provided they remained within acceptable boundaries. After all, she had never fulfilled the obligations incumbent upon an elder sister; she could hardly demand the reciprocal affection such a role might otherwise command. Upon perceiving Ye Li's presence, Ye Lin and Ye Shan advanced with visible reluctance, duty overriding preference. "Greetings, Third Sister." Ye Li inclined her he...
