The carriage trundled toward Hengting Pavilion. Outside, the clamor of street vendors hawking their wares mingled with the bustle of pedestrians, slowing the vehicle’s progress.
Xiao Yan sat inside, casually chatting with Tang Ning about court affairs and trivial gossip. Tang Ning leaned lazily against the carriage wall, her relaxed posture and constant smile betraying her good mood.
After a long while, the carriage finally halted.
“Governor, we’ve arrived at Hengting Pavilion,” Jin Yun murmured from outside.
A servant from the pavilion hurried over with a stepping stool. Xiao Yan descended first, and when the staff recognized him, they promptly bowed. They moved to usher him inside, but he paused by the carriage. Moments later, the curtain lifted again, revealing a woman in a green dress and a veiled hat. Tang Ning instinctively grasped Xiao Yan’s arm as she stepped down.
Once she steadied herself, Xiao Yan glanced coldly at the gaping servant, who jolted back to attention. “This way, Governor,” the man stammered, leading them inside.
Hengting Pavilion was owned by Prince Huan. Unlike Prince Cheng—who had fallen out of favor after losing the imperial succession struggle—Prince Huan retained significant influence despite his rivalry with Emperor An. Backed by his powerful maternal and marital families, he oversaw the Imperial Clan Court and was notorious for his fiery temper and penchant for brawling. His pavilion, famed for its luxury and security, attracted nobles and scholars alike.
Though Tang Ning had heard much of the place, this was her first visit. Peering curiously through her veil, she scanned the lively hall below before entering a private room.
Xiao Yan ordered tea and pastries. “Try the White Jade Hibiscus Cake—it’s exceptional here,” he said, evading her earlier question about the “spectacle” he’d promised.
Tang Ning bit into the delicacy, her eyes brightening at the tangy fruit filling. “It’s delicious!”
Xiao Yan chuckled. “Prince Huan spares no expense. The chefs here are former imperial cooks.”
As Tang Ning savored the cake, shouts erupted outside. Xiao Yan stood. “Time for the show.”
They stepped into the hallway, where the commotion crescendoed. A furious voice roared, “Xie Pingjia! What’s your game? Get out of my way!”
Xie Pingjia—the Second Prince. Tang Ning peered over the railing to see two richly dressed young men confronting each other downstairs. The Second Prince, facing away, placated his livid younger brother.
“Fourth Brother, they meant no harm. Just drunken chatter—”
“Drunken chatter?!” The Fourth Prince snarled. “Who are these worms to gossip about me? Beat their mouths to pulp!”
His attendants surged forward, but the Second Prince blocked them. “This is Uncle Huan’s establishment. Must you shame him?” He turned to the trembling offenders. “Apologize!”
One man, pale with fear, stammered, “Forgive my drunken folly, Your Highness—
Slap!
The Fourth Prince struck him, then kicked him to the ground. “Forgiveness? You’re beneath it!”
As he rained blows on the man, the Second Prince tried to intervene, only to be shoved aside.
“Xie Pingjia!” the Fourth Prince spat. “Don’t think losing the Lu Family puts you on my level. You’re nothing. Either step aside or join him!”
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You can read ahead to chapterr 400 (100+ extra chapters) here
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