Chapter 127: I Like You

After Li Rong finished giving instructions, she looked toward the distance. Su Rongqing seemed to have finished his own tasks and greeted Su Ronghua, who had come from another porridge station. Su Ronghua left first. Li Rong glanced at the sky—it was still early. There were still a few hours before the Yue Lao Temple would become lively in the evening.

So she moved the carriage forward a few steps, changed into plain clothes inside, and stepped down.

Su Rongqing had already disappeared—perhaps he had finished his errands and gone home. Li Rong wandered around the porridge stall.

Compared to their family’s wealth, the Su family’s porridge stall looked quite shabby. Other noble families used high-quality rice for disaster relief, with plump grains that were well-received. But the Su family used the lowest-grade brown rice, with bits of gravel mixed in, making it quite unappetizing.

She remembered that in her previous life, it wasn’t like this. Back then, the Su family used good rice, which even attracted people who weren’t disaster victims to come and cheat for free food and drink.

This change made her feel even more emotional. Although she had mostly confirmed Su Rongqing’s background, every time she truly realized it, she couldn’t help but feel a bit wistful.

Why come back?

Li Rong smiled bitterly. She and Pei Wenxuan had returned and could rekindle their relationship. But he came back…

What was he seeking?

While Li Rong was looking at the porridge stall, Cui Yulang, following Consort Rou’s request, went to the palace to give lessons to Prince Su.

Led by palace attendants, he arrived at the prince’s study. Upon entering, he saw Prince Li Cheng sitting properly at the head. Behind him was a screen, and behind the screen, the silhouette of a woman could be vaguely seen. Cui Yulang had a good idea of who it was—Consort Rou.

He pretended not to know anything and respectfully knelt: “Your servant greets Your Highness.”

“Rise,” Li Cheng said, sitting cross-legged with his hands on his knees, exuding a commanding presence.

Cui Yulang stood up, and a maid came forward to place a cushion for him. He knelt opposite Li Cheng, and the maid quickly withdrew, leaving only the two of them in the room.

“My mother said she wants to see you,” Li Cheng said directly, then got up and moved aside. Consort Rou stepped out from behind the screen and gracefully sat where Li Cheng had been.

“Greetings, Consort Rou,” Cui Yulang quickly bowed.

Consort Rou smiled, “No need for such formalities, Lord Cui.”

She then gave Li Cheng a look. Li Cheng pouted, reluctantly stood up, and poured tea for Cui Yulang and Consort Rou.

Cui Yulang noticed Li Cheng’s expression and realized he wasn’t doing it willingly. He quickly said, “No need, Your Highness. I can serve myself.”

“Cheng’er,” Li Cheng was about to stop, but Consort Rou glared at him. His face fell, and he said, “Lord Cui, please don’t be so reserved. I’ll pour the tea for you.”

Cui Yulang gave a dry laugh and could only nod in thanks.

After pouring the tea, Consort Rou looked Cui Yulang up and down and said, “I heard that today Lord Cui submitted a memorial against the Crown Prince and was punished with a deduction from his monthly salary.”

When Cui Yulang heard this, his face showed a trace of frustration. Consort Rou observed him and slowly said, “Lord Cui did nothing wrong. The Crown Prince made a mistake during last year’s sacrificial rites. Even if it was unintentional, it still contributed to this year’s disasters. His Majesty punishing you was truly a helpless act.”

“You see things clearly, Your Grace,” Cui Yulang sighed. “The court is now full of collusion among noble families. For someone like me from a humble background, even speaking the truth is considered wrong.”

“Then has Lord Cui ever considered,” Consort Rou hinted, “finding an ally—seeking a path forward for those from humble origins?”

Cui Yulang didn’t respond immediately. He slowly raised his head and looked at Consort Rou. She met his gaze with a smile. After a long pause, Cui Yulang spoke softly, “The path Your Grace wishes to take is dangerous. If you intend to use me, I have one condition.”

“Oh?” Consort Rou picked up her tea and asked leisurely, “What is Lord Cui’s condition?”

“I ask that Your Grace place absolute trust in me.”

Hearing this, Consort Rou paused slightly. She looked up and stared at Cui Yulang. After a moment, she chuckled softly. “Lord Cui, we are not yet well acquainted. Absolute trust takes time. But I can promise you this,” she placed her hand over her heart, “if I choose to use you, I will not harbor unnecessary doubts. As long as you do not betray my expectations, I will place my full trust in you.”

“However,” she tilted her head, “how does Lord Cui intend to earn my trust?”

Cui Yulang straightened up, a hint of confidence on his face.

“May I ask, Your Grace,” he lowered his voice, “do you want the Inspectorate?”

Consort Rou’s gaze instantly turned colder. Cui Yulang fanned himself and smiled at her. “Your Grace has many strategists under your command. I know well that earning your trust is no easy task. That’s why I didn’t come empty-handed.”

“Reporting the Crown Prince was my way of knocking on your door.”

Consort Rou looked up, her eyes now serious.

If reporting the Crown Prince was meant to attract her attention, then this man’s mind was not merely that of a recruitable scholar from a humble background—he was someone who must be recruited.

“And the Inspectorate,” Cui Yulang leaned in slightly, “is my gift to Your Grace.”

“So, Your Grace—do you want this grand gift, or not?”

—

When Cui Yulang left the palace, Li Rong had already visited several porridge stalls and finally came across a scholar.

The scholar looked like he had traveled a long way, dusty and weary. He carried a letter and approached a servant of the Su family. After a brief conversation, the servant led him away.

Li Rong quickly followed them. After entering a narrow alley, they soon arrived at a residence. Li Rong hid around the corner and listened as the servant knocked on the door. When it opened, the servant said, “This young gentleman is here in Huajing to take the imperial exam. Please take good care of him.”

“Please, sir.”

Someone inside led the scholar in. After a short while, Li Rong heard someone inside ask, “Are all of you here for the exam today?”

“Yes,” the guide replied, sounding a bit troubled.

“That’s unfortunate,” said someone inside with a sigh. “Not a single person came to file a complaint today…”

“Your Highness.”

Just as Li Rong was about to move closer to hear more, a calm voice sounded behind her. She was so startled she nearly jumped, but instinctively suppressed any reaction. After a moment of stiffness, she composed herself and turned around with a smile—only to see Su Rongqing standing not far behind her.

His hands were tucked into his sleeves, his expression devoid of joy or sorrow, as calm and emotionless as a divine statue.

“Lord Su,” Li Rong pretended nothing had happened and smiled. “What are you doing here?”

“This is a property under the Su family’s name, used to house examinees who cannot afford inns,” Su Rongqing replied, not asking why Li Rong was there. “Is Your Highness lost? Would you like me to guide you?”

“Indeed,” Li Rong accepted the offer smoothly. “Then I’ll trouble you, Lord Su.”

Su Rongqing nodded and stepped aside to let her pass first.

Li Rong walked in the direction he indicated, and Su Rongqing followed behind her.

Not too close, not too far—just like in their past life, when he was still her servant.

After a few steps, Li Rong began to feel uneasy. She stopped and turned to look at Su Rongqing, pointing ahead with her small fan. “Weren’t you going to lead the way, Lord Su? Go on.”

Su Rongqing paused at her words and looked at her steadily.

His hands, hidden in his sleeves, clenched into fists, but his face remained composed.

Li Rong tilted her head and smiled lightly. “Lord Su?”

“I…” Su Rongqing’s voice was slightly hoarse. “I dare not overstep.”

“You’re merely guiding me—how is that overstepping?” Li Rong smiled gently. “You are now the legitimate son of the Su family and the Right Assistant Minister of Justice, not a servant. You needn’t be so restrained.”

As she spoke, Su Rongqing’s face gradually paled. Every word she said seemed to cut into his heart.

Li Rong watched his expression change, waiting quietly. After a long moment, Su Rongqing seemed to come to a realization. He let out a soft laugh and stepped forward. “Please, Your Highness.”

With that, Su Rongqing walked ahead, keeping a respectful distance. Li Rong followed half a step behind, letting him lead the way.

She had intended to ask something, to gather information. But upon seeing Su Rongqing, she suddenly lost interest.

She had a strange feeling—if she asked, Su Rongqing would answer.

But if he truly did, she wouldn’t know what to do with the answer.

She wasn’t like Shangguan Ya, who could set a trap even knowing the other person would attend the banquet. She could use schemes and strategies to win against this man—but not this way.

The two of them walked in silence for half the way. It was Su Rongqing who finally spoke first: “Your Highness doesn’t wish to ask anything?”

“What’s there to ask?”

Li Rong walked with him out of the alley and said calmly, “If I want to know something, I’ll investigate it myself. As for what you’re planning—it’s not hard to guess.”

“Your Highness has always been straightforward,” Su Rongqing replied evenly.

Li Rong smiled faintly. “If I were to ask you anything, it would only be at one time.”

Su Rongqing turned to look at her. Li Rong had her hands behind her back. “Either when I’m dead—or when you’ve lost.”

As they spoke, they exited the alley. Once outside, Li Rong waved her hand. “No need to see me off, Lord Su. I’ll go on my own.”

She turned to leave, but Su Rongqing suddenly called out, “Your Highness.”

Li Rong stopped and looked back, seeing Su Rongqing standing quietly among the crowd.

They were not far from the Yue Lao Temple now. Lanterns were beginning to light up, and people bustled about. The warm glow of the lights cast a soft hue on Su Rongqing’s figure. He raised his hand and performed the respectful gesture he used in their past life when he was her guest minister. He simply said, “Take care.”

Li Rong didn’t respond to his gesture. Just then, a young man shaking a rattle drum bumped into her.

She looked up and met his eyes.

He wore a fox-faced mask and a long robe of pale blue with silver patterns. His exposed eyes held a hint of warning. As he brushed past her, he whispered, “Still watching.”

Li Rong almost laughed aloud, but knowing Su Rongqing was still watching, she held it in. She nodded slightly to Su Rongqing, then turned and followed Pei Wenxuan into the crowd.

Pei Wenxuan acted like a stranger. One hand was behind his back, the other held a rattle drum. The beads on either side of the drum tapped rhythmically, making a soft “da-da” sound. He looked every bit the bored young nobleman.

He was tall, standing half a head above the crowd. Li Rong didn’t need to search—she could spot him instantly. She followed him for a while until she saw a secret guard standing at the entrance of a restaurant. Li Rong turned and entered the restaurant, quickly changing her clothes and hair accessories. When she came out, she wore a peach blossom mask.

Near the Yue Lao Temple, many men and women wore masks. With hers on, Li Rong didn’t stand out. She scanned the crowd and soon spotted Pei Wenxuan haggling with a vendor at a stall.

Li Rong walked up behind him and cleared her throat softly. Pei Wenxuan didn’t react, continuing to bargain with the vendor: “A little cheaper.”

Li Rong didn’t look at him, keeping her hands behind her back as she strolled down the street. After a short while, she sensed someone walking beside her.

She didn’t turn her head—she already knew who it was. Suppressing a smile, she asked, “Saved a few coins?”

“Do you really care about a coin or two?” Pei Wenxuan flicked his wrist, and Li Rong heard the crisp “swish” of a fan opening. She turned to glance at him and saw he had brought a fan today, playing the part of a refined gentleman—looking quite a bit like Cui Yulang.

Li Rong couldn’t help but laugh. “Did you go to Cui Yulang for tips?”

“This little thing? You think I needed to learn it from him? You really underestimate me,” Pei Wenxuan said with disdain.

Li Rong looked him up and down and remarked, “That mask suits you well—cunning and sly.”

“Yours isn’t bad either,” Pei Wenxuan replied coolly. “You may not look like a peach blossom, but your fate is full of them.”

“You’re saying I’m not good-looking?”

Li Rong struck first. Pei Wenxuan, unwilling to confront her directly, changed the subject: “I meant you attract a lot of messy romances.”

“Then you should be happy,” Li Rong teased with a smile. “You’re the best among all those messy peach blossoms. Be proud.”

Pei Wenxuan scoffed but said nothing. Neither of them brought up serious matters—they simply wandered the streets aimlessly, like an ordinary couple.

They walked close together, shoulder to shoulder, their clothes brushing against each other as they moved silently through the crowd.

After a while, Li Rong gently reached out and hooked her pinky around Pei Wenxuan’s under the cover of their sleeves. Pei Wenxuan turned his head and saw her wink at him, her mischievous eyes full of amusement, as if certain he wouldn’t be angry.

Pei Wenxuan suppressed a smile, pulled his hand away, and turned his head, snubbing her with practiced ease. Li Rong’s expression changed instantly, ready to scold him—until she felt him grab her hand again. This time, he not only held her hand but also placed something in her palm.

It was smooth, crescent-shaped, just slightly larger than a fingernail. He pressed it into her hand and said softly, “For you.”

His voice was quiet, almost shy. Li Rong, for reasons she couldn’t explain, was affected by his tone. She lowered her gaze and walked hand-in-hand with him, whispering, “What is it?”

“A pair of crescent moons,” Pei Wenxuan explained. “I have one, and the other is for you.”

“Bought it from that street stall just now?”

Li Rong laughed. Pei Wenxuan looked a bit embarrassed. Li Rong teased, “Got tricked again, huh?”

Pei Wenxuan: “…”

He tried to take the pendant back, voice low: “Forget it if you don’t want it.”

But before he could retrieve it, Li Rong closed her hand around it and raised her palm.

The red string of the crescent pendant was still looped around her finger. She opened her hand, letting the pendant dangle in midair. Walking backward, she smiled and said, “You gave it to me—now you want it back?”

Then she lifted her hand and put the pendant around her neck, looking up proudly. “Not—”

Before she could finish the word “happening,” Pei Wenxuan stepped forward and pulled her into his arms, wrapping his arms around her waist.

Just then, someone nearby bumped into them and quickly apologized, “Sorry, sorry! I didn’t see you there!”

“It’s nothing,” Li Rong said, knowing it was her own fault for walking backward. She turned in Pei Wenxuan’s arms and reassured the middle-aged man with a child, “I wasn’t being careful either.”

The man apologized again and had the child do the same. Seeing the child was adorable, Li Rong gave her the rattle drum Pei Wenxuan had been playing with earlier. After the child left, Li Rong turned back and saw Pei Wenxuan standing behind her, his eyes unusually gentle beneath the fox mask.

Feeling a bit self-conscious under his gaze, she asked, “Why are you looking at me like that?”

“You’re usually not this patient,” Pei Wenxuan replied bluntly. “Watching you comfort that child just now—you looked beautiful.”

Li Rong chuckled softly, saying nothing more. She understood what he meant.

In her past life, she had been full of hostility, impatient with children, easily irritable—she never had this kind of gentleness.

She didn’t elaborate on those changes and finally brought up the real topic: “Today I saw Su Rongqing taking in scholars who came to Huajing for the imperial exams. I followed along and overheard the servants say he’s not only looking for examinees, but also for people who came to file complaints.”

Li Rong frowned, clearly uneasy. “I can’t quite figure out what he’s planning. If he’s gathering scholars, I could guess he’s trying to win hearts. But if he’s also looking for complainants…”

“How’s Cui Yulang doing?” Pei Wenxuan suddenly asked, changing the subject rather forcefully. Li Rong paused, realizing what he was doing, and looked at him steadily.

Pei Wenxuan acted as if nothing had happened, smiling. “How did you arrange things with him? He even submitted a memorial against the Crown Prince today.”

“He did that so Consort Rou would approach him,” Li Rong followed his lead and smiled. “I’ll help him put on a few more performances. Once he earns Consort Rou’s trust—he’s from a humble background and naturally opposed to Su Rongqing. With him in the picture, any alliance between Consort Rou and Su Rongqing will fall apart.”

“Smart move,” Pei Wenxuan praised. “Without Su Rongqing, Consort Rou is no threat. If she and Prince Su fall, Su Rongqing alone can’t defeat the Crown Prince—unless he plans a rebellion, which is unlikely.”

“That’s exactly my plan.”

As they spoke, they reached the end of the stone bridge near the Yue Lao Temple. Seeing the path come to an end, Li Rong smiled. “That’s all I had to say. I’ll head back now.”

Pei Wenxuan nodded. Li Rong waved. “I’m off.”

She stepped onto the bridge.

There were few people around. Beneath the bridge, moonlight shimmered on the water, which flowed gently. Just as Li Rong stepped onto the bridge, she heard Pei Wenxuan call out, “Rongrong.”

She turned to look at him. He stood quietly, watching her. After a moment, he raised his hand, pointed to himself, drew a circle over his heart, then pointed to her.

Li Rong understood clearly—it was sign language for *I like you.*

She paused, then smiled softly. “Got it.”

Pei Wenxuan slowly smiled, watching Li Rong cross the stone bridge with the lightness of a sparrow, then jog away until she disappeared from his sight.

As soon as Li Rong left Pei Wenxuan, a secret guard leapt down from the surrounding walls and followed behind her.

Li Rong’s smile faded. She said calmly, “Have people keep separate watch on both Pei Wenxuan and Su Rongqing. Report any unusual movements to me immediately.”

The guard responded, and Li Rong returned to the restaurant. She changed back into her regular clothes, as if she had simply come for a meal, then went downstairs and boarded her carriage to return to the Princess’s residence. Leaning alone against the carriage wall, she finally let out a long, heavy breath.

Her people soon brought back news. Zhao Chongjiu delivered the report: “Lord Pei is also investigating Su Rongqing.”

“What’s going on with Su Rongqing’s people?”

Li Rong frowned and opened the report Zhao Chongjiu had brought. Kneeling before her, he explained everything in detail: “They refused to let me investigate. Since the beginning of the year, Su Rongqing has been providing food, clothing, and shelter for scholars coming to the capital for the exams. Ordinary scholars stay in the large compound Your Highness saw. But those with grievances are housed separately in another estate.”

Li Rong listened quietly, her brows furrowing. “Why is he gathering these people?”

“We don’t know yet. But there’s one interesting detail.”

“Oh?”

“Lord Pei’s men have infiltrated the group.”

Li Rong didn’t respond immediately. She chuckled at Zhao Chongjiu’s words.

Su Rongqing was gathering complainants, and Pei Wenxuan had told her not to worry about it—yet he had secretly sent his own people to infiltrate the group.

That meant this gathering was likely no small matter.

Li Rong thought quietly for a moment, and a plan began to form in her mind.

Zhao Chongjiu waited patiently. After a long pause, she finally understood.

“Quick,” Li Rong ordered urgently, “bring Cui Yulang back to me!”

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