Chapter 12: C12. Presence Seals Your Fate.

Chapter 12

The next day, Yunzhu personally drafted an invitation and sent it to Gu’s residence through a maid.

Gu Min was visibly surprised upon receiving it. Though they lived in the same capital, she had only heard of Yunzhu’s bold and decisive reputation through others. They had never truly interacted, their exchanges limited to courteous nods at formal events.

Her mother, Madam Zhao, smiled knowingly and remarked, "It seems you gave Heir Li a red ribbon, and now Miss Li wants to test the waters with you."

Madam Zhao was well aware of the polo field incident. Li Yao had only received three ribbons that day, but Gu Min’s stood out distinctly.

Amused by her mother’s teasing, Gu Min blushed slightly but defended herself, saying, "I acted out of respect for the esteemed Duke. Duke Ningguo’s military expertise is exceptional, and I couldn’t stand by while Heir Li acted recklessly. I merely seized the moment to caution him. You’re also aware that the formal engagement between the Great Imperial Uncle and Heir Xie of the Changxing Marquis House is already in motion. A simple gesture, like presenting a ribbon, could easily be misconstrued."

Madam Zhao smiled knowingly and commented, "Heir Li and Cao Shao are about the same age..."

Gu Min gracefully countered, "Yet with his demeanor, who could possibly confuse him for your daughter?"

It was evident that most noblewomen appreciated Duke Ningguo’s title. However, Gu Min was indifferent. None of the ladies she knew had any interest in Li Yao, and they wouldn’t ridicule someone for mentioning his name. Developing affections for him, though, was another matter entirely.

Madam Zhao, recalling rumors that Duke Ningguo’s wife had long worried about her eldest son’s marriage, cautioned her daughter, "I suspect Ningguo’s wife sent her daughter to probe your intentions. If there’s any misunderstanding, it’s best to address it directly."

Gu Min replied firmly, "You needn’t worry, Mother. If Miss Li seeks to test me, I’ll make my position abundantly clear."

After parting with her mother, Gu Min retreated to her study and composed a response.

When Yunzhu received the reply, she noted Gu Min’s willingness to join her for a spring outing. However, Gu Min explained she was occupied with other engagements and would only be free on August 25th.

Yunzhu wasn’t surprised. The capital had far fewer noble families than civil servants. Gu Shoufu and his son shared their circle with colleagues and old friends in the same field. With so many civil servants coming and going, Gu Min naturally knew more people than Yunzhu. Girls these days flitted between households, filling their social calendars with visits and gatherings.

On the twenty-fifth day, right on schedule, the carriage from Duke Ningguo's mansion arrived at Gu’s residence, fifteen minutes early.

Out of courtesy, Yunzhu first paid her respects to Gu Min’s grandmother and mother before setting out. The Gu ladies were gracious, smiling warmly as they praised her and sent the girls off with a parting gift.

Once in the carriage, Yunzhu glanced at the jade bracelet now adorning her wrist and teased Gu Min, “I invited you, yet it seems I’m the one walking away with all the spoils.”

Gu Min replied politely, “Sister, you’ve seen everything rare and extraordinary at the Duke’s mansion. Surely, you can’t feel shortchanged.”

Though just sixteen and two years younger than Yunzhu, Gu Min carried herself with such gentleness and modesty that she felt more like an elder sister.

Yunzhu’s eyes sparkled when she heard her referred to as “sister.” Whether it was due to Gu Min’s protective affection for her family or her own musings, Yunzhu had already begun picturing Gu Min as her future sister-in-law.

The thought of someone so beautiful becoming a part of her brother’s life felt like a blessing for the Li family.

The idea stuck, and suddenly, Yunzhu didn’t want Gu Min to address her so formally anymore. She opted for familiarity and said, “No need for titles, A Min. The spring weather has been fantastic. Have you been to the flower-filled mountains with the other girls around the capital?”

Gu Min nodded. “I have. For instance, Taoxia Ridge is famous for its peach blossoms. I’ve visited many times.”

Yunzhu smirked knowingly. “I figured as much, which is why I’ve planned something a little different for us today.”

Gu Min hesitated, her voice laced with uncertainty. “Where are we going? Not somewhere barren and remote, I hope?”

Rumors of Yunzhu’s daring nature—her martial arts skills, her prowess with swords and bows, and her ability to rival seasoned warriors on horseback—made Gu Min wary.

But Yunzhu smiled and waved off her concerns. “Relax. We’re going to Wanhua Mountain. There’s a lake there, perfect for fishing. You’ll love it.”

Of the peaks near the capital, Wanhua Mountain stood far off. Its imposing presence made it a prime spot for hunting, not sightseeing. Women rarely came here just to enjoy the view.

But today, Yunzhu made it a point to bring Gu Min along, determined to expose her to new sights and experiences.

When Gu Min understood Yunzhu’s purpose, she felt a sense of relief. With eight guards from both families trailing their carriage, there was no reason to worry.

*

Emperor Yuan Qing's frequent hunts at Wanhua Mountain ensured the official road from the capital to the mountain stayed impeccable. The carriage from the Duke of Ningguo’s Mansion raced down the road, reaching the mountain’s base in under an hour.

As she stepped out of the carriage, Gu Min glanced back at the luxurious interior, a surge of emotion rising within her.

Her grandfather, the Chief Minister, valued simplicity and despised waste. The Gu family’s carriage was modest, akin to those used by average officials.

In stark contrast, the Duke of Ningguo’s carriage was a marvel of comfort and innovation. Equipped with shock-absorbing mechanisms, it delivered a smooth ride even at breakneck speed—a testament to the Duke's founding lineage.

After the long ride, it was time to move. Yunzhu, smiling warmly, took Gu Min’s hand and led her forward.

Gu Min quietly observed Yunzhu's poised profile. The young lady, famed for her elegance and aloofness, was surprisingly kind. Could this mean Yunzhu saw her as a future sister-in-law?

Determined to stand her ground, Gu Min gently pulled her hand free. “I’ll walk on my own,” she said firmly.

Yunzhu didn’t press, knowing such connections must come naturally, no matter how much she desired them.

Soon, they reached the mountain. A small stream appeared, its waters clear and inviting. They followed it upstream for over an hour until they found a tranquil lake. The crystal-clear water reflected the sky like a mirror, the serenity swallowing the chaos of the outside world.

Gu Min, enchanted by the scenery, stood still, sweat clinging to her brow, her eyes sparkling with wonder.

“This lake,” Yunzhu said softly, “is a place my grandfather loves. He’s fond of the silvery crucian carp here.”

Walking to the lake’s edge with the sun casting long shadows behind them, Yunzhu and her maids, Lian Qiao and Shiliu, began cleaning two smooth stones with practiced care.

“These stones weren’t always here,” Yunzhu remarked, lost in thought. “My grandfather brought them himself to make fishing easier.”

Gu Min touched her arm lightly, her tone thoughtful. “The Old Duke truly has a refined spirit.”

Yunzhu smiled. “He does. My father, however, doesn’t care for fish. My brother loves it but lacks the patience to fish.”

When Li Yao’s name was mentioned, Gu Min stayed silent.

Yunzhu observed Gu Min’s expression and immediately sensed that she’d misunderstood her earlier. A flicker of regret crossed her mind, though she felt no remorse for making the trip. Gu Min wasn’t the kind of woman who blindly followed societal expectations. Having such an open-minded sister was refreshing.

The rocks had been scrubbed clean, with fishing rods and bait neatly prepared nearby. Yunzhu was fully engrossed in teaching Gu Min the art of fishing.

“If we’re lucky, we’ll enjoy freshly grilled fish for lunch.”

“Are you good at grilling?”

“Of course. My grandfather taught me well.”

That cranky old man was quick to scold his family but had the patience to debone fish with precision. It was bittersweet to think he’d never stand in this spot again.

As Yunzhu cast her line into familiar waters, the cloud beads suddenly tasted sour. Moments later, the fishing line twitched!

Her eyes lit up with excitement. She pulled the rod back, revealing a gleaming crucian carp nearly a foot long!

Gu Min’s admiration was evident. Watching the fish get caught stirred a newfound enthusiasm for fishing.

Fifteen minutes passed without another catch. Suddenly, faint voices echoed from downstream.

Before Yunzhu could react, the guards from both households were already stationed at the lake’s entrance, standing on high alert.

Moments later, Cao Xun, Xie Lang, Xie Wenying, and a group of their long-time companions came into view.

Yunzhu’s eyes briefly rested on Cao Xun and Xie Wenying before drifting back to the water.

Seeing this subtle dynamic, Gu Min began to grasp the intensity of Yunzhu’s feelings.

Not wanting to appear rude, Gu Min stepped forward to greet them. She lowered her gaze slightly and bowed to Cao Xun in respect. “It’s an honor to meet you, Duke.”

Her father, Gu Qinghe, now thirty-four, had recently hosted Cao Xun, the Duke of Dingguo, and Zhang Xingjian, the Marquis of Huai’an, for a dinner at their home. Gu Min’s mother had shared that these three prominent figures had been friends since their youth.

Cao Xun returned her bow with a polite smile. “The honor is mine, A Min.”

Gu Min acknowledged the Xie siblings with a nod before asking Cao Xun, “Sister Yunzhu and I came here for some fishing. Has the Duke of Dingguo arranged to meet Heir Xie here as well?”

Cao Xun shook his head. “Not at all. I was returning from paying respects to my ancestors when I crossed paths with Heir Xie. I invited him to join me here.”

His immaculate white attire confirmed his story of honoring his forebears.

After the greetings, Cao Xun casually strolled to where Gu Min had been fishing, inspecting her setup with a sharp eye.

Gu Min, slightly embarrassed, admitted bluntly, "I haven’t caught a single fish yet."

Cao Xun gave the bucket on Yunzhu’s side a quick, dismissive glance.

Avoiding his gaze, Yunzhu firmly reassured Gu Min, "You’ve only just started learning and haven’t been fishing long. Don’t rush."

Xie Lang, eager to speak to her, was met with Yunzhu’s silent signal—a finger to her lips and a gesture toward the lake, ordering his silence.

Left with no choice, Xie Lang instructed his guards to set up stools and fishing gear over ten paces away.

His meeting with Cao Xun was no coincidence. On his way out of the city, he had spotted Duke Ningguo’s carriage. Lian Qiao and Shiliu sat on the shaft, while servants carried fishing equipment. Realizing Yunzhu was heading to Wanhua Mountain to fish, he rushed home to bring his sister along. By his own admission, his pursuit of Yunzhu was far too direct, breaking every social convention and leaving him tense.

As for running into Cao Xun along the way, Xie Lang extended a warm invitation—but only for his sister’s sake.

"My lord, I’ll keep A Min company. You can focus on fishing."

Without hesitation, Xie Wenying handed over her fishing gear to Cao Xun. With Gu Min’s approval, she settled beside her.

Cao Xun simply nodded.

Unspoken rules demanded silence when watching others fish. Occasionally, Xie Wenying murmured softly to Gu Min, but mostly, she sat quietly, her gaze locked on Cao Xun across the water.

Yunzhu, adjusting her bait, stole a few quick glances.

Her mind was preoccupied with Cao Xun. Xie Wenying’s behavior didn’t seem strange—men naturally sought beautiful women, and beautiful women pursued accomplished men.

But what truly concerned Li Yunzhu was Cao Xun’s attitude.

Why had he agreed to join the Xie siblings?

Was he interested in Xie Wenying?

Li Yunzhu knew she was more striking than Xie Wenying. For Cao Xun to pay attention to Xie Wenying, despite Yunzhu’s presence, suggested either blind infatuation or that he valued something beyond beauty in a potential wife.

Li Yunzhu was keenly aware of her own appeal. Xie Wenying carried herself with the refinement of a civil servant’s daughter, her reputation untarnished. Meanwhile, Yunzhu’s engagement to Cao Shao had ended in scandal…

Her mood darkened instantly.

Raising the wooden bucket with two fish inside, Yunzhu forced a smile at Gu Min. "Take your time. I’ll go to the other end to prepare these."

Once, this would have been a servant’s job. But her frustration needed an outlet, and her current bluntness bordered on hostility.

Gu Min: "..."

So, the delicate beauty has a fiery side after all.

As Yunzhu prepared to leave, Xie Lang, who had been quietly listening, abruptly stood and said firmly, “Sister Yunzhu, let me help you with that.”

Noticing Cao Xun also showing interest, Yunzhu flashed a sharp smile at Xie Lang and replied, “No need. The satisfaction of preparation comes only when one does it themselves.”

Even if Cao Xun preferred Xie Wenying, she saw no reason to involve herself in a futile contest for attention with someone unworthy.

After dismissing Xie Lang, Yunzhu turned away. The smile vanished from her face, replaced by a tight, displeased expression.

When she was far enough that the smell of blood wouldn't linger, Yunzhu lowered her head and, with precision, sliced into the fish with a swift, confident motion.

Lian Qiao and Shi Liu, standing nearby, kept a close watch on their mistress. They could sense her simmering anger but had no idea of its source.

Footsteps sounded from behind.

The two maids turned and quickly saluted upon recognizing Cao Xun.

Yunzhu paused her task briefly, glancing at Cao Xun’s shadow as it fell across the shore. Without a word, she returned to descaling the fish.

Cao Xun gestured for the maids to step back. Rolling up his sleeves, he crouched beside Yunzhu. Extending a hand, he said with forced sincerity, “Let me handle this. There's no need for you to risk cutting yourself.”

Without looking up, Yunzhu replied curtly, “There’s no need. I am not clumsy.”

Cao Xun hesitated, waiting for her to hand over the knife. When she didn’t, he withdrew his hand and settled on the ground, watching her intently. Her steady grip and rhythmic movements caused her hair to sway slightly, and the sunlight reflected off her temples, casting a soft glow on her cheeks.

He continued to observe, his gaze unwavering.

Finally, Yunzhu raised her eyes, sharp and cold. “What exactly are you doing here, my Lord? Do you find some strange amusement in watching fish being gutted?”

Cao Xun shifted his gaze to the two maids, who stood silently nearby.

Yunzhu pursed her lips before passing the fish and knife to Lian Qiao and Shi Liu, instructing them to finish cleaning elsewhere.

The two maids obeyed and walked off.

Yunzhu crouched again, this time to rinse her hands in the water.

Cao Xun’s eyes lingered on her fingers—delicate and pale, like jade dipped in water, their translucence accentuated by the sunlight.

Unbothered by his stare, Yunzhu frowned and asked, “Is something wrong? Your presence here is wholly inappropriate.”

Cao Xun’s eyes lifted to her face, youthful yet commanding. Her beauty at eighteen was striking, her demeanor unyielding.

He smiled faintly and replied, “I’ll soon be burdened with responsibilities, leaving me little time for leisure.”

Yunzhu’s tone remained cutting. “And what does that have to do with me?”

His smile deepened. “There are matters I need to settle with you.”

Yunzhu tilted her head, her eyes narrowing as she studied him, her patience wearing thin.

Cao Xun said directly, “I’m not in a rush to marry, but those around me seem desperate. If I’d settled this sooner, I could’ve avoided a lot of unnecessary hassle.”

Yunzhu lowered her gaze.

Cao Xun read her thoughts. “You want to marry me.”

Yunzhu didn’t deny it. Instead, she glanced at Xie Wenying and replied, “The Duke of Dingguo has status and looks. What unmarried woman wouldn’t want to marry you?”

Cao Xun looked at Xie Lang too and countered, “You, a noblewoman of the Duke’s household, are stunning. Plenty of men are after you. Why me?”

Yunzhu answered without hesitation, “Because you’re better than all of them. I’ll marry either you or the best man.”

Cao Xun smirked. “So, until I leave for Beijing, I’m the best in your eyes?”

Yunzhu shot him a sharp look.

Cao Xun’s curiosity flared. “What if, after I return to Beijing, you’re already married to someone else and realize I’m better? Then what?”

Yunzhu’s voice stayed steady. “Once I’m married, my loyalty belongs to my husband. No matter how exceptional someone else may be, it won’t matter.”

Cao Xun didn’t bother exposing her half-truths. He shifted his gaze to the lake. “A woman should marry for love, not just for family prestige.”

Yunzhu stirred the clear lake water and retorted, “The man I marry will also be the one I love.”

To her, love meant appreciating a man’s family status, talent, looks, and strength.

Cao Xun clarified, “I’m talking about character, not appearances. You don’t understand me at all. Some men may look noble but are nothing more than frauds. They’re not good men.”

Yunzhu studied his gentle expression and asked, “Are you like that?”

Cao Xun smiled faintly. “Maybe, in the eyes of some.”

Yunzhu thought for a moment before asking, “If we married, would you treat me well?”

Cao Xun, observing her youthful beauty, answered without hesitation, “I’d treat you with the respect you deserve. Beyond that depends on how you treat me. I’m not the type to spoil a woman just because she’s beautiful. If you act out or disgrace me in marriage, or fall for someone else, I won’t hesitate to divorce you.”

At thirty, Cao Xun didn’t shy away from his thoughts, his calm but firm words leaving Yunzhu stunned. She stared at him, speechless.

Cao Xun added, “Marriage isn’t a game. Even childhood sweethearts can end up miserable. We barely know each other.”

“You’re only eighteen, so you can afford to be reckless. I, on the other hand, have to be cautious.”

He concluded, “At the end of the month, I’ll be at Zuixianju. If you come, I’ll ask the Emperor for your hand in marriage.”

Yunzhu blurted out, “And if I don’t?”

Cao Xun answered coolly, “Then I’ll take my time and find someone else.”

For him, marriage was a serious matter—not something to be rushed.