Innocence: in which FangZhiHang was never found guilty

"Why must they stay here?"

FangYan laughed at his sister's complaint. "It's a great honor for us to host them."

FangCi made a face as she grumbled, "right, how could I forget?"

He raised his blade in challenge, "you just don't like the fact that you'll have to behave."

She pressed her lips together and lifted her own sword in answer.

Of course he forced her to yield, which only added to her poor temper.

"You have to calm your heart; your emotions provide too much distraction."

She scowled at the familiar admonition.

"At least it won't just be the elders this time. Father says there is a prince and two princesses among the party."

"And I'm sure they'll all be perfectly polite and well behaved and...and absolutely boring."

Her brother's amusement at her petulant tone was obvious even as he said, "you can't know that."

"Can't I? LiuShu told me about the last visit. The whole household had to be taught new etiquette. I'm so glad I was too young to remember."

"I wasn't." He said even as he lifted his sword again.

"I'm sure you left a most favorable impression," she told him even as she blocked his attack.

He nodded in approval at her form before saying, "as will you."

"I don't know…" whatever she wished to say was forgotten for the moment as she focused on tracking his movements and ensuring that she made the appropriate response.

"It's not fair, you're not even short of breath," she complained as she stopped to catch her breath when he called for a halt.

He grinned at her, "I have more opportunities to keep active."

She made a face, "I wish I wasn't born a girl. Then I could be of more help to you and father."

"But think how lonely mother would be, left all alone in the household."

"You know mother secretly wishes she could join you and father too. As it is, father does appreciate her insight in certain cases. He says mother understands people on a more intuitive level."

"Whereas he and I are far too logical and expect people to be more sensible than they are," he completed her thought.

"Right."

He smiled a little, "you'd think living with you would have cured us of such a fallacy of thought."

She rolled her eyes at him, "your flattery doesn't work on me."

He laughed, "it wasn't meant as a compliment."

"You are free to imply what you will, but I am likewise free to interpret your meaning however I wish."

He laughed again.

She sighed, "how long will they be here again?"

"A month, I believe."

"Might as well be a lifetime," she muttered.

"Cheer up, meimei," he slung an arm about her affectionately, "maybe you'll get the chance to beat up a prince."

"Haha," she said humorlessly, "as though a prince would ever deign to compete with me. Besides, father would never forgive me."

"Hmm. I don't know. Father won his freedom and proved his innocence through debating with the emperor after all."

"Father is eloquent; words are his weaponry as much as the sword is."

"And you have talked your way out of many scrapes." he reminded her.

She sighed, "Longest month of my life."

She soon learned that the emperor's party didn't just include a prince and two princesses.

"Do we even have the space?" she asked her mother as they compiled the list of things that had to be obtained.

"Just enough I think," her mother answered, "we'll have to open up the courtyard on the far side of the lake, but I think HuanZhuGeGe and EFu might appreciate the privacy. They are newlyweds after all."

"They've been married a year already, haven't they?"

Her mother smiled, "a year passes in the blink of an eye when you're in love."

"Like you and father are?"

Her mother chuckled, "hmm...you'll have to ask your father."

"Oh there's no need. Just the way he still calls you 娘子 in that special tone of voice makes it obvious."

"And what would you know of such matters?" her mother asked curiously.

FangCi shrugged, "I've just been thinking that maybe it's time for brother to find a 娘子 of his own."

"Oh?"

"He's the oldest in the family, after all. Cousin Qi-er married this past year, Cousin Shen-er is even a father now but brother still remains unattached."

"Well it's certainly not for lack of opportunity or options."

"Brother is too embarrassed to say, but I think he's holding out for true love."

"Really?"

FangCi nodded, "he and father are so similar, why shouldn't they agree on this matter too?"

Her mother smiled again, "indeed, why shouldn't they?"

FangCi shrugged, "anyways, who else is to be in the party?"

"HuangHouNiangNiang and LingFeiNiangNiang are both accompanying the emperor. But I'll have them stay in the Lotus Court, next to the Willow Cabin I think."

"And who will be there?"

"LaoFoYe and Qing-GeGe. LaoFoYe is fond of prayer, and the Willow Cabin is closest to our household chapel."

"And HuangShang?"

"Will be at Sunrise Square, with Fu DaRen and HuTaiYi close at hand. The guards will have to be split into two parties; one with our household guards and the other half at the magistrate."

FangCi sighed, "so much fuss already; they're not even supposed to arrive for another six months!"

"Fortune favors the prepared," her mother said patiently, "we have made a practice of simplicity in our lives. And though HuangShang has asked that we continue as we are, we still have to make some changes."

"What is he like?"

"Who?"

"HuangShang."

"Very learned," her mother answered, "in possession of a curious mind. Not afraid to hear dissenting opinions. He won your father's respect during their discourse."

"Discourse or interrogation?"

"Treason is not a light crime," her mother admonished.

FangCi bowed her head but then asked, "Can one actually ever be friends with an emperor?"

"The emperor is a man too. The loneliest man in the world, I daresay."

"Surely not; not with so much power at his disposal."

"The most powerful man is also the most powerless man."

FangCi's face scrunched up in confusion.

"Do you know why your father has ever refused promotions beyond his current position as regional magistrate for a seemingly unimportant district?"

FangCi shook her head.

"He could have become an official in HangZhou, could have risen to be magistrate of all of ZheJiang, maybe even a position in the capital, but he chose to stay here in our little district."

"Why did he?"

"Because he knew that the higher he rose, the more dangers he would have to face. After what our family already went through...why would he expose us to unnecessary dangers?"

"But he could have helped so many more people!"

"Some would call him selfish; heaven knows your grandfather did before his death; thankfully your uncle has always understood."

"As you do?"

Her mother nodded, "the higher the position, the more the bureaucracy. Your father is a just man, a good magistrate; we have been fortunate to have earned the respect and love of our neighbors. In part because we've been able to get to them on a far more personal level. I may complain when they come directly to the estate rather than go to the magistrate, but I know to take heart that they feel comfortable to do that. Your father never wants to forget his roots; the people's pain is his pain, the people's joy is also his joy. And I think it is because of that philosophy that the emperor acquitted him."

FangCi looked thoughtful.

"Dynasties rise and dynasties fall; it's not always easy to be a conquered people. But your father told me that for a Manchu, HuangShang is rather reasonable."

"High praise, coming from father."

"Indeed." Mother and daughter shared an amused grin.

FangCi suddenly let out a sigh.

"What's wrong?"

"How are you so wise, mother?"

Her mother chuckled, "I wasn't always. I was much like you in my youth; but your father taught me to look at the world in different ways. People were surprised that he wished to marry me."

"Really?"

Her mother bopped her nose, "really. He is the eldest born in his generation and was meant to marry a proper young lady who would stay home and ensure the passing on of the Fang name. I was known for my lack of skills when it came to the womanly arts. Your grandmother was much appalled when he declared his intentions."

FangCi only had vague memories of the stern woman who always seemed to be frowning.

"And I thought he was quite the bore, actually, in the beginning."

"Oh?"

Her mother paused to smile, "it's nothing you don't already know, XiaoCi."

"But I still like to hear the stories."

"Hmm...but just briefly today, we've still got much to plan."

FangCi nodded obediently.

"As you know, I was an only child and my father had little time to look after my education. I know he loved my mother very much; hence his decision to always be away on business after her death. He could never look at me without seeing her shadow. And so I grew perhaps a little wild. Your grandfathers had been sworn brothers, your uncle was even apprenticed to my father. So I suspect your father felt obligated to look after me as one would an unruly younger sister. How much I resented him each time he came to check in on my lessons. I tried so hard to provoke him to anger; I played all sorts of nasty tricks on him, but I could never break him... And then my father died."

Her mother fell silent a moment, "He asked me to marry him. I refused. I did not want his pity. I was determined to be independent. But what did I know about the running of a business? I did my best...and only afterwards did I find out about the things your father did silently to fix my mistakes. I confronted him, accusing him of belittling me, of interfering where he shouldn't, of being in league with his brother to steal my family business from me...it was the only time he ever raised his voice."

"What did he say?"

Her mother's eyes grew distant, "He told me he loved me. That he always had. That he couldn't bear to see me be taken advantage of. That he had taken care of me for so long, it had become integral to who he was."

"And what did you say?"

"What could I say? When I stayed silent, he apologized and left. And I was left standing there, looking like the fool that I was."

"And then what happened?"

"I tried to forget what he said, tried to ignore the true reason I had always tried to get some manner of reaction from him. It was a bittersweet victory, really, that I was finally able to. A month later, your grandmother swept into my room and demanded that I fix him. He was so drunk when I saw him…I wanted to dump cold water on him, wanted to slap him silly, but he looked so pitiful, sprawled in such a crumpled heap on the floor...and in that moment I realized the power I held over him. And rather than making me proud, it just humbled me. And so, I tucked him in instead and personally prepared tonics for when he woke."

"And then you said yes?"

"And then I said yes," her mother agreed, "and submitted myself with only minimal grumbling to your grandmother's teachings in how to be a proper young lady as befitting a bride of the Fang family."

FangCi giggled in response.

Her mother smiled, "now then, you've had your story, shall we return to our task?"

Later that evening, FangCi saw her mother kiss her father's cheek on his return from listening to the woes of the townspeople.

"Have I forgotten some important occasion?" her father asked.

"No," her mother replied, "I just wanted to."

Her father snaked an arm about her mother's waist and pulled her closer for a real kiss, "in that case, allow me to greet you properly, 娘子."

FangCi smiled to herself as she tiptoed away.

"Ah XiaoCi, have you grown taller again?"

FangCi laughed, "not that I'm aware of, MingLiang gege."

"XiaoMing, how was your journey?"

"Aunty," her cousin nodded politely, "I hope the silver silverware meets your specifications?"

"They do indeed, thank you for the timely delivery."

"It was no trouble."

"Did you bring me any presents?" FangCi demanded.

"Aren't you too old for presents?"

FangCi shook her head, "there's no age limit to presents!"

He laughed again, "hmm true enough." He reached into his pocket and withdrew what looked to be a silver hairpiece.

XiaoCi frowned as she took it in hand, "it's certainly pretty."

"I'm glad you think so. But it's no mere ornament."

"No?"

He shook his head, "see if you can discover its secret."

She ran her fingers over the slender object carefully and gave a gasp as she triggered a hidden clasp and removed a dagger from the sheath, "oh!"

"Bravo!"

"Thank you!" Her gladness was obvious.

He smiled indulgently, "you'll have to thank your QinYun jiejie for finding it and bargaining with the weapons maker for it."

"Where is QinYun jiejie? She usually comes with you."

"Ah, I fear she will have to take a break from traveling with me."

"Is she sick?" XiaoCi looked worried.

"Hmm in a manner of speaking."

"What does that mean? Did you send for a physician? What's wrong with her? Why didn't she send word?"

"Hold on!" He said with a wide grin, "she's fine; she was just experiencing some nausea and so stayed back home in YunNan this time."

"Nausea?"

He nodded at his aunt's question.

"Oh!"

XiaoCi looked more puzzled at her mother's wide grin, "what?!"

"How would you like to be an Aunty again, XiaoCi?"

"An aunty...oh!" Still, she hit him on the arm.

"Ow!"

"Don't scare me like that!"

"Hmm, maybe giving you a weapon was a bad idea."

She immediately held tight to her present with both hands, "mine!"

He laughed at her childish pout as he brought out a letter, "no worries though, your QinYun jiejie did not forget about you."

"Of course not! I'm her favorite!" She took the letter eagerly.

"You're everybody's favorite. That's why you're so spoiled."

FangCi turned towards her brother who must have just returned, "hey!" But then she paused and shrugged, "true enough."

"At least you have some 自知之明."

She stuck her tongue out at him.

"XiaoCi."

At her mother's admonition, she settled, "thank you for the present MingLiang gege."

"Hmm, we may turn you into a lady yet."

"Then she'll be like that hairpiece," her mother observed, "her true self will be a hidden secret."

"A woman of mystery...I do like the sound of that." FangCi looked thoughtful.

"A woman huh? What, you are tired of being my little girl?"

"Father! You're home early."

"I heard XiaoMing had arrived, of course I had to come greet him."

"Uncle Fang."

"And how is your father?"

"Still wondering when you'll quit your duties and join him in roaming the jianghu again."

"As though your mother would let him!"

MingLiang smiled wryly, "Grandfather Cun would also be loath to lose father as a tutor."

FangZhiHang smiled, "XiaoYao may have become tethered, but he's still pretty comfortable (自在)."

"So are you though, uncle."

FangZhiHang laughed again, "yes, so I am."

Her MingLiang gege stayed for just a week. FangCi thought it endearing that he was obviously in a hurry to return to her QinYun jiejie.

"Don't forget to give her my letter!"

"How can I? You wrote a veritable book!"

She rolled her eyes at his teasing but still said, "be safe!"

She waved her handkerchief until he was out of sight before turning to her mother, "I've only just noticed that all the men in our family share a commonality."

"Oh? What is it?"

Her father and brother also looked at her curiously.

"They are all very 专一 when it comes to their life partners."

"Your brother isn't married yet."

"But he will be the same way, I'm sure of it."

"It has been a tradition, at least in our branch of the family," her father admitted, "whether by our nature or through nurture... your uncle Xiao is a Fang in all but name."

"And the women?"

"You are the first daughter in five generations," her father reminded her.

"Right."

"We'll borrow a tradition from the Na people," her brother said calmly, "anyone who wishes to take my sister away must also submit to the Fang family tradition."

Her father nodded, "You certainly have enough older brothers to ensure such a reality."

XiaoCi smiled, "promise?"

"Promise." Her brother replied with confidence.

"Are they still coming?" Some of the rumors she had heard were downright nasty.

Her mother nodded, "yes. Your father sent word from HangZhou. HuangShang and LaoFoYe are both distraught and WuAhGe is still recovering from his injury. Your father thought that the peacefulness of our home and the relative banality of our lives would be helpful in their recovery of spirits."

"Oh."

"Did you not want them to come?"

"I…" FangCi frowned, "I don't know. How am I to behave?"

"Why must you act any differently?"

"Well...it's not every day that the empress tries to have a prince assassinated under the guise of an uprising against the dynasty."

Her mother looked at her sharply, "you shouldn't listen to gossip."

"But even the worst gossip can have a grain of truth."

Her mother sighed.

"So it's true?"

Her mother gave no direct answer, but FangCi still knew how to interpret the silence.

"We won't treat them any differently." Her mother said firmly. "We will provide an environment suitable for rest and recuperation."

"Yes, mother."

It rained when the royal party arrived, which really was actually rather fitting FangCi thought.

The emperor was gracious in his greetings, but even she could tell that he was burdened. She recalled what her mother had said about power and loneliness and felt suddenly sympathetic.

Her pity would soon turn to annoyance, however, at the persistently sullen ways of the prince.

Her brother seemed to find a friend in EFu and the two could often be seen sparring in the courtyard. She joined them at times and was glad to find that EFu did not offer any admonishments about her lack of propriety.

"It's obvious you train hard," he told her when she voiced her surprise, "besides it'd be hypocritical of me to judge when my sister-in-law is known for her skills with a whip."

"Oh?"

"My brother married a Tibetan princess," he explained.

"Ah."

"They traveled back to her homeland for the year, otherwise I imagine she would have enjoyed fighting you too."

She smiled at him but then suddenly grew alarmed, "Ah! I forgot! I was supposed to help mother with preparations for tea with LaoFoYe today!"

She looked pleadingly at her brother who took her sword from her, "just this once."

She kissed his cheek in response, "thank you!"

FangYan shook his head as he watched her rush in the direction of her rooms, "when will she learn to be more organized?"

ErKang laughed, "you can't hide your fondness for her."

"She is my only sister," FangYan said.

ErKang laughed again, "excuses, excuses."

FangYan just shook his head, "shall we continue?"

FangCi had expected herself to be bored, but found that the two princesses were in possession of excellent senses of humor. She almost forgot that LaoFoYe and LingFeiNiangNiang were present until the dowager empress laughed at a particularly silly riddle she had shared.

FangCi paused and looked up in startlement; she hadn't been aware that LaoFoYe was capable of laughter.

"XiaoCi, how do you come up with these?"

"I don't know," she answered honestly, "they just come to me."

"I would be interested in hearing a few more."

"I'll do my best, but I can't control when my mind is inspired." She wondered if she had been too blunt.

But LaoFoYe continued to smile, "The marking of true creativity! ZiWei has told me that she feels compulsions to compose; at such times she feels as though she is but the vehicle for some greater power."

HuanZhuGeGe nodded to show her agreement.

"What instrument does GeGe play?" Her mother asked politely.

"The guqin. My mother had taught me." HuanZhuGeGe seemed sad for a moment.

"And I play the pipa," QingGeGe added. FangCi didn't miss the grateful glance HuanZhuGeGe gave to her cousin.

"Brother and I both play the xiao, just like Father does," FangCi shared. Her eyes lit up, "say, maybe we should have a concert!"

LaoFoYe laughed again, "what a wonderful idea. Qing-er and ZiWei have played duets for me before, I would be interested to hear how more accompaniment would sound."

The young ladies thus had a reason for spending more time together. XiaoCi, growing up as she did with all male cousins, found herself actually enjoying their company.

"They're not boring at all," she shared with her brother.

The look he gave her plainly said 'I told you so.'

She huffed, "ZiWei is ever so sweet. She's probably the nicest person I have ever met. Qing-er appears the perfect princess, but she'll make comments that hint at a brilliant mind and a sly sense of humor. They're more like sisters than cousins actually."

"And you treat our cousins more like brothers."

"True." She paused but a moment, "I did manage to find out the reason for ZiWei's title."

"Oh?"

"I've heard rumors of course, but it's nice to hear confirmation."

When she stayed quiet, her brother felt obliged to say, "well?"

FangCi hid a smile. For all his properness, her brother did have a weakness for gossip. He pretended that such knowledge helped him solve cases, but she thought she knew better. Still, his secret would always be safe with her.

"She wasn't born in the palace, but rather in JiNan. She was six when her father returned to fetch her mother."

"Why the delay?"

FangCi shrugged, "ZiWei doesn't know. And I think her mother was too happy that her father didn't forget his promise to ask. Besides, her mother didn't seem the sort who would dare question the emperor. They had four blissful years as a family before her mother died. And since she was already friends with Qing-er, LaoFoYe took her in too."

"How fortunate."

"She told me that LaoFoYe intimidated her too, in the beginning."

"Hmmm...I suppose LaoFoYe didn't exactly approve of how she came to be."

"Just so," FangCi agreed, "but of course through her own goodness she was able to convince LaoFoYe that she was deserving to be a princess."

"Did she say that?"

"Of course not! ZiWei is all that is humble. It's just my own conclusion after having gotten to know her."

"And Qing-GeGe?"

"What about Qing-er?"

"How did she become LaoFoYe's ward?"

"Ah that is a sad story. Qing-er's father had perished in battle and her mother decided that she did not wish to live without him."

"Ah. Sad indeed."

"But you'd never know that she has such a tragic past. Qing-er is so well adjusted; she is in possession of a quiet confidence that I assume arises from LaoFoYe's favor."

"Why do you say that?"

"Have you met LaoFoYe? She reminds me of our grandmother."

Her brother blinked, "you remember NaiNai?"

"I know I was only five when she passed, but I do remember how stern she always was. Even father cowered in front of her."

"Cowered has such a negative connotation."

She shrugged but did not correct herself, "even HuangShang listens to his mother's counsel, surely you've noticed. The only one who seems to ignore her is WuAhGe."

"He doesn't mean to, I'm sure. ErKang says he's usually the most well mannered and the most reasonable of the princes. It wasn't just on a whim that HuangShang picked him for this expedition."

"What do you mean?"

FangYan opened his mouth to reply but then thought better of it. It wasn't his place to speculate on the mind of the emperor. "Never mind. Why should it matter that LaoFoYe reminds you of NaiNai?"

"Just that only someone with a strong sense of self could withstand her. Qing-er may seem submissive and obedient, but I've seen her powers of persuasion at work. If HuangShang listens to LaoFoYe, then LaoFoYe listens to Qing-er."

"Really?" He looked thoughtful.

"Funny thing is, I don't think she realizes it."

"No?"

"She and ZiWei both remind me somewhat of father when they speak; their techniques are different but you can't help but think that they make perfect sense."

"No wonder you've become their friend so easily. All three of you seem to be in possession of some manner of 口才."

"Is that a compliment?"

"Is that how you're interpreting it?"

"Is it how you mean it?"

He looked at her oddly, "when has that stopped you before?"

She shrugged, "ZiWei and Qing-er are both so refined...I just…"

FangYan smiled a little. Ah, his sister was growing up. "Of course I meant it as a compliment. No one can tell a story like you; I hear you even managed to charm LaoFoYe."

"She's really not so bad. I can tell she's worried about WuAhGe though. They all are."

FangYan sighed. The prince did keep to himself for the most part. He even took meals in the quarters assigned to him. The few times he made an appearance, the atmosphere would at once grow stilted and uncomfortable.

"I think…I think they all see how he had been and don't know how to approach this new WuAhGe."

"What do you mean?"

"ErKang says WuAhGe was the most promising of all the princes. I've also heard HuangShang remark in passing how it was a pity that so much has been lost."

"But I thought he was recovering well from his wounds."

"Yes...but HuTaiYi says he'll always walk with a limp."

"Oh." She frowned, "so? He'll still be able to ride a horse won't he? And I've seen him train by himself; that foot doesn't keep him from being most impressive still."

"You've seen him train?" He asked in surprise.

"He had requested some brushes; mother had me deliver them. He did stumble initially, but he seemed determined to overcome it."

"When was this?"

"The third day after their arrival. I went back two days later to see if he needed more ink stones; he was rather rude actually."

"Rude?"

"He wouldn't let me see any of his drawings. Even after I complimented him on his form."

He fought a chuckle at her annoyed expression. She may be growing up, but she was still XiaoCi.

"Anyways, even though he's the guest, somehow he made me feel like an intruder, so I left."

"I've heard he's a gifted artist."

"Oh?"

Her brother nodded. "ErKang says his brother used to be WuAhGe's book companion. I trust he knows what he's talking about."

"Then why won't he let me see his drawings?"

"ErKang says he's also prone to being overly self critical."

She made an impatient noise, "another perfectionist then."

"Another?"

"Like you're not the same way."

He laughed out loud this time, "just to compensate for you."

"Hey!" She threw one of the walnuts on the table at him, which he deftly caught, much to her displeasure.

He jumped out of the way of the next missile with a laugh and continued dodging.

"Ow!" She looked down to see her hand hitting the bottom of the bowl. "Hmmp."

"Come on," he returned and dropped a few nuts back into the bowl, "I'll help you clean up, before mother or father sees."

"You should pick them all up; you provoked me after all." Despite her words, she went about the courtyard in order to remove all evidence of her ill temper.

"That's the last of them, I think." FangYan said as he dropped the last handful into the bowl.

"Do you think it's true what they say?"

"What?"

"That eating walnuts makes you smarter?"

He shrugged, "I don't know. But you could always ask HuTaiYi. He seems very learned."

"Hmmm...maybe I will." She shrugged, "for now though, ZiWei promised to teach me to make walnut cakes."

"Walnut cakes?"

She nodded, "ZiWei is an artist when it comes to desserts too; they're almost too pretty to eat."

"Really?"

She nudged his shoulder with her own playfully, "don't worry big brother, I haven't forgotten about your sweet tooth. I'll be sure to save some for you."

"I never said anything about…"

He fell silent when she just lifted her eyebrow at him.

"It's uncanny how much you look like mother when you do that."

She laughed before skipping away to join her friends.

Her conversation with her brother and something ZiWei said about WuAhGe being quite fond of the cakes gave her an idea.

She scolded herself for feeling like a thief in her own home. Still, it was almost a relief that she found his study empty and quiet. Setting the tray of cakes on the desk, she bit her lip before resolutely walking around, sitting down in the chair, and inspecting the work space. He was very neat, was her first thought. The brushes hung in a row sorted by size. The books were neatly stacked, the edges lined with precision. And ...ah ha! She grinned when she saw the stack of what must be his drawings, she glanced about to make sure that no one was around before removing the weight that kept the drawings in place.

"Huh." Brother hadn't been wrong; WuAhGe really was a talented artist. She wondered if some of the scenes were from their journey. There was remarkable detail that was captured. There were other more casual drawings too that looked much less foreign. It took her a moment to realize that he had captured small details of her home, details that she would have never noticed had he not captured them so beautifully. There was the rippling reflection of the bridge on the lake, the solemn face of a fortuitous cat statue that stood guard on a roof, the ethereal smoke rising from the incense in the family chapel…

"Looks like he's not staying cooped up after all," she murmured to herself.

A few more pages and she came across a poem. His calligraphy was an art form onto itself. She just stared at it in appreciation before even thinking to read the words.

"Well if that isn't just the most depressing thing someone's ever written."

"What are you doing here?"

She jumped up at the sound of his voice. Clutching her hands to her chest, she gasp, "don't do that! I could have died of fright!"

When he just continued to stare at her, she lifted the tray of cakes, "ZiWei said you're fond of these. She's a very patient teacher and I've almost got the hang of them. I won't blame you if you choose to eat only the ones she made; it'll be fairly obvious which ones those are."

When he continued being silent, she put down the tray again, feeling very self conscious for babbling. "I'll just...go then…"

She passed him as she walked to the doorway. Her hand was on the door itself when she suddenly felt herself growing angry, why should she leave? This was her home! And she was trying to be nice.

She whirled around, "you're being very selfish, you know that?"

He looked up at her with a frown.

She lifted her chin and strode right up to the desk again, "While you've been wallowing in self pity, everyone else has been worried sick. They're giving you time and space to heal and I guess I can understand that. From all tales you're a rather independent individual. But can't you give them some sign that you are doing better? ZiWei has these dark circles under her eyes. ErKang just looks at her with such concern. Qing-er is better at hiding her concern, but I know she, LingFeiNiangNiang, and LaoFoYe spend hours knelt in prayer. And HuangShang tries to distract himself by playing at being a local magistrate or having philosophical debates with father, but his disappointment every time you fail to show up for a meal is palpable."

His continued silence wasn't helping her temper, "I read your poem, I understand better now what you have lost. But surely you don't have to own the world for you to still appreciate it. And it's not like you can't still do your part in shaping the world into how you envision it should be. The emperor is not the only person who can affect change."

When he just blinked at her, she huffed in annoyance, "Urg, why do I even bother? Your privilege blinds you to the realities of the world." Out of spite, she picked up the tray again, "you don't deserve these cakes."

So saying, she whirled around and left him to his misery.

Only when she arrived back in her rooms did it occur to her what she had done. "Oh no." She was going to be in so much trouble.

The knock on her door made her jump again.

"Oh, brother, it's just you."

"Who did you think it was going to be?"

"Nobody," She said evasively.

"Are those the cakes?"

She followed his gaze, "oh, yes."

He whistled in appreciation as he inspected one, "they are very intricately made."

"Qing-er says she's going to teach me to make the tea that goes best with them next."

"Oh?"

"Did you know tea was an art too? I mean I knew there are different leaves and different waters, but Qing-er also knows about herbs and spices that can be used not only to flavor the teas but also ensure that they're good for one's health. She even lent me a book about it."

Her brother chuckled, "you're getting quite the education."

She nodded, "it's much more interesting than needlepoint."

"Just don't poison yourself by mistake."

"Of course not," she had recovered her equilibrium, "Qing-er is a very capable teacher. She learned from the taiyis themselves you know."

"Actually, I didn't know that."

"No? Oh. Well, she did. She says it's really just a hobby, but I really do believe she's made it into an art form."

"Yes, you had said."

"I did, didn't I?" She shrugged, "only because it's true."

He smiled, "I'm glad you like them."

She grinned, "I was thinking of asking them to become sworn sisters."

He blinked in surprise, "you've only known them for what, 10 days now?"

"Time is irrelevant; it's the connection of our spirits that truly matter."

He smiled a little, "now you're starting to sound like mother too."

"And that is the biggest compliment you could possibly pay me, big brother!"

She saw the almost empty tray the next morning and sighed. She did feel guilty for taking them away after she had already offered them to him. Straightening her shoulders, she picked out the best three from the ones left over and made her way to the bamboo grove again.

"Have you come to admonish me again?" Strangely he didn't seem upset.

Still, she shook her head, "I came to apologize actually." She shoved the cakes at him, "I'm sorry they're not as good as when they were freshly made…"

He set down his book and took the package from her. "Thank you."

"I was being a poor host," she told him, "and...well… it really wasn't any way to talk to a prince."

He stared at her consideringly and she fought the urge to fidget. "You were right though."

"What?"

"I'm not so proud that I can't appreciate good advice when I hear it. That's the mark of true nobility, isn't it? To be humble enough to listen to those wiser than oneself?"

"Wait, are you saying that's me?"

He nodded.

She couldn't help but laugh in his face.

"What's so funny?" He genuinely seemed puzzled.

"You obviously don't know me very well."

"Then I'd like to."

"What?"

"Exactly what I said. I'd like to get to know you."

His formality amused her, "well considering you're staying in my home, that's rather unavoidable, isn't it?"

Her flippancy earned her a slight smile.

Huh. He was actually rather handsome.

"Master Fang, Fang FuRen, I apologize for my previous ill manners."

Conversation around the table stopped as WuAhGe entered the room.

"Not at all; your health is paramount." FangZhiHang quickly answered while his wife directed the servants to add one more place at the table.

"I thank you for your understanding and indulgence in allowing me to wander the estate. I am humbled that FangDaRen truly practices the principles of simplicity and service that you had written about in your letter to HuangAhMa all those years ago."

"You've read my letter?"

"Yongqi is very well informed," the emperor looked proud.

WuAhGe nodded in recognition of his father's praise, "I only wish that more officials held such beliefs."

"It was written in a moment of desperation."

WuAhGe nodded again, "but the honesty of your words is to be admired."

Their discourse ran smoothly afterwards and when he took a peak and saw FangCi's smile before she turned to answer a question from Qing-er, he felt oddly pleased.

"Brother! what are you doing here?" Even as she sat down in the pagoda, however, FangCi looked curiously between Qing-er and her brother...why did she feel as though she had interrupted something private?

"The fault is mine," Qing-er was quick to answer, "I asked to hear a sample of your brother's skill."

"Only because I had started playing without thinking when I heard GeGe's tune."

They seemed to be careful to avoid looking at each other.

"What song were you playing?" FangCi asked.

"Something my mother had once written for my father." Qing-Er's cheeks still seemed oddly flushed.

"It's beautiful," FangCi praised, "though in a sad, wistful sort of way."

"AhMa had been a gifted general. Unfortunately it meant that ENiang spent much time missing him."

"She must have loved him very much."

"Yes. Though their marriage had been arranged...they were happy."

ZiWei's arrival then meant they could start their rehearsal.

"I will take my leave," her brother said, "thank you QingGeGe for your indulgence."

"Just Qing-er please."

"GeGe is certain?" His question seemed to have a secondary meaning.

But Qing-er gazed back at him steadily, "Yes."

FangCi and ZiWei exchanged raised eyebrows. Ah, how could they have missed it?

"He truly is a brilliant young man. I can see the reason for HuangShang's regret."

"His limp is not so noticeable when he's not tired," her mother answered.

There was a pause before her father said, "it's not just the limp."

She heard him sigh. "It's a strange sort of poison that stays in his system. HuTaiYi can control it somewhat, but it can still flare at unpredictable times."

"The poor child," her mother's voice was full of sympathy.

"His spirit though, seems strong."

"Out of necessity, no doubt," her mother answered.

"I suppose being a son of the emperor leaves little room for weakness."

"And YuFeiNiangNiang had passed when he was still young."

"Ah. No wonder the three of them tug at your heartstrings; it's an unfortunate commonality for them to share. "

"It's presumptuous of me to feel so maternal towards them."

She couldn't see her father's smile but could still hear it in his voice, "娘子's care is genuine; they are too smart to take offense."

"Or are just too polite to mention it."

"No. They are each truly humble; it gives me hope for the future."

Her mother chuckled before FangCi heard a rustling sound.

" 娘子?"

FangCi blushed as the light in her parents' quarters extinguished to the sound of giggles. Ah, her question could wait until the daytime.

She paused at the edge of the lake and tilted her head. She thought she could hear the sound of a xiao floating across the water. She squinted and yes, there was the flicker of a lantern aboard a boat. Brother must be feeling poetic again. She smiled to herself. She wondered what moved him this time.

"XiaoCi?"

She turned, "oh, Qing-er! What are you doing out at this hour?"

Her friend smiled, "I could ask you the same question."

She shrugged, "it's a beautiful night, too lovely to spend indoors."

"It is much warmer than it would be at home." Qing-er admitted.

"Sit with me?"

Qing-er smiled at the invitation and settled on the rock.

FangCi sighed in contentment as she let the peace of the evening suffuse her soul. It was a night meant for whispered secrets. "Qing-er?"

"Hmmm?"

"What's going on between you and my brother?"

"What do you mean?" Qing-er might have wanted to pretend to be ignorant, but her slight pause before answering had given her away.

FangCi gestured at the water, "you know that's him out there, don't you?"

When her companion gave no answer, FangCi turned and saw Qing-er looking where she had pointed. Her expression revealed clearly what she refused to say.

"Brother likes you too." She said confidently. "But...I suspect you already knew that."

"This wasn't supposed to happen," Qing-er at last uttered.

"Why not?"

"Because…"

"Yes?"

Qing-er sighed, "The marriage of Royal children is never a matter within our own control."

"Ah. You were expecting LaoFoYe to arrange something for you."

"Yes."

"She allowed ErKang and ZiWei to find each other, didn't she?"

"ErKang and ZiWei are 青梅竹马. Besides, HuangShang has never made it secret his hopes of making ErKang an EFu."

"Must brother have a title for him to be considered suitable?"

"For myself? No. These weeks, I've found that I enjoy the simple life your family has built. There's room to breathe freely and think freely and…"

"And feel freely," FangCi helpfully completed her thought.

Qing-er was looking across the water again, "I knew better…and yet still…I already dread our departure."

FangCi frowned. She liked Qing-er, would be ecstatic to have her as a sister-in-law. Mother and father would be happy too, she knew, not only because brother would be happy. But as much as HuangShang respected her father, as much as LaoFoYe treated her mother kindly...Qing-er was still a GeGe. FangCi wasn't so naive that she didn't understand the concept of 门当户对. What could be done?

"Why won't LingFeiNiangNiang become HuangHou?"

"Don't fidget."

She rolled her eyes at him. WuAhGe had insisted on painting individual portraits of her family as his way of thanking them for their generosity. She was the last one to sit for him. It was tedious business and she hated it.

"Can't you just paint me from memory?" She asked for the upteenth time.

"I could…"

"Thank heavens." As she made to hop down from the stool, however, he continued his thought.

"...but it wouldn't be nearly as accurate."

"That's fine," she said brightly, "it's already honor enough for you to draw us at all."

"You are strange. Most young ladies would wish to be represented at their best."

She shrugged, "who but my family will see it? And they already know what I look like."

"What about the matchmaker?"

"What matchmaker?"

"You'll have to get married one day. What if your future in laws request a picture?"

"Then I won't marry at all."

"Oh?"

"Why would I marry into a family who judged me by looks alone?"

He chuckled at her answer but did not take his eyes off his paper.

She sighed and tried again to settle. "At least answer my question?"

"Hmmm?" He did look up briefly.

She repeated her earlier inquiry.

"Where did you hear that?"

"Just something LaoFoYe had said about HuangHou in the Cold Palace. I fully expected her to be executed."

"Is that what you would have done?"

"Well of course. Is that not the punishment for treason? Just because she's HuangHou does not mean she's above the law."

"Your words are reasonable, that is how it should be."

"But?"

"But HuangAhMa also has to consider for 12-Ah-Ge's future. And...despite everything, they have been husband and wife for many years."

"Reasons enough to spare her life...but why allow her to retain her title?"

"Because HuangHou is not just a single person. And though the women of the Inner Palace are forbidden from taking part in politics, the inner and outer courts are still connected. HuangHou's clan had played key roles in ensuring my grandfather's success in securing the throne. HuangAhMa can not appear unfilial." He explained patiently.

"Father taught us about the fight among the princes...it all seems quite silly. Why would one want to be emperor anyways? It seems like endless headaches and responsibilities and paperwork. Why, HuangShang still gets daily stacks of reports, even here!" She paused suddenly, as though just realizing who her audience was. "Oops...I didn't mean…"

He paused again to smile at her, "no offense taken. I'm rather grateful to have been spared so much headaches and responsibilities and paperwork."

"My brother has corrupted you," she pointed a finger at him accusingly. "I think I liked it better when you were distant and formal."

He chucked, knowing she wasn't actually upset. It may only have been a week since she had shocked him out of his self-loathing and self imposed exile, but he felt that he was starting to get the measure of her temperament. And it really was refreshing to have someone speak to him so freely.

She frowned at him before shrugging.

"Don't fidget," he said more out of reflex than anything else.

"How much longer?" She whined.

"Why don't you tell me a story?"

"What?"

"Tell me about YunNan. Your brother mentioned that you and he had traveled there for your cousin's wedding."

"Cousin? Oh! You must mean MingLiang ge ge. He's not really blood related to us; but mother always said that bonds of family do not have to involve blood."

"Your mother is a smart lady."

"Yes she is. If I could be half as insightful as she is, I'd be satisfied…" she shook herself, "anyways. Let me tell you about MingLiang gege. Well, I'd have to explain first about Uncle Xiao I suppose. He was a foundling, adopted by my paternal grandparents and raised as a brother to my father. He had a restless sort of spirit and he and father spent two years just wandering the jianghu. But then father married mother and Uncle Xiao traveled alone. He didn't seem to mind; a lot of the strange things that we have on display are actually from him. And then one day, he sent word that he was getting married! It turned out he had caught the eye of one of the local beauties. And not just any daughter of the Bai tribe, but the youngest daughter of Master Cun himself."

"Master Cun...the silver merchant?"

She nodded, "I'm surprised you're aware of Grandpa Cun's name."

"YunNan has many exports, the three most famous are tea, jade, and silver. And when it comes to silver, the Cun family's craftsmanship is without parallel."

"It was a most interesting courtship, but my Aunty is nothing if not determined. Grandpa Cun is also someone who values an educated mind and so Uncle Xiao found himself settling in YunNan. And soon afterwards, they had MingLiang gege."

She continued to talk about her family, her affection for them evident in the way her eyes shined. Her enthusiasm also spilled over into her hands and he was momentarily mesmerized as they danced and sketched out the tales she wished to convey. He even forgot to tell her to stop fidgeting.

"...and that's why QinYun jiejie is probably my favorite...she defies traditions and goes where MingLiang gege does. And whenever I'm with her, I can always count on getting the best bargain…"

He had completed the sketch for a while by then, but he found that he liked just hearing her talk.

"...when I get married, I want to do that too…"

"What about when you have children?"

"We'll just bring them along of course! The world is too big not to explore; and experience is the best teacher."

"And if your husband does not share your adventurous spirit?"

She shrugged, "I'll probably end up marrying the son of some merchant acquaintance of the family, travel is just part of the business."

"Oh?"

"Most of the family is in some form of business. When mother married father, she brought my grandfather's legacy as her dowry. My uncle and cousins have expanded it these many years and their connections are many and varied. When the time comes, I'm sure they'll have recommendations for mother and father to consider."

"I'm surprised."

"By what?"

"That you would let them choose for you."

"I never said I'd let them pick for me. The ultimate decision will still be mine and mine alone. Each of my cousins met their wives through family connections, but they still got a say in who would be their bride."

"And your brother?"

"What about brother?"

"Has he not found anyone?"

FangCi at once seemed more subdued, "brother…" she sighed a little before saying, "my cousins have teased him, saying he's determined to become a monk."

But Yongqi could tell her attempt at joking was a little forced. Still, he was too polite to pry.

"Anyways, are you done now?"

He couldn't help but smile at her hopeful expression, "come see."

She came to his side and stared at his drawing, "huh."

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing," she said, her eyes not leaving the painted version of herself, "do I really look like that?"

"No."

"No?"

"You are far more lively and spirited than can be captured on paper."

"I look...happy."

"Are you not?"

She looked thoughtful before saying determinedly, "Yes. Yes, I am."

Suddenly she grinned, "so I'm done?"

"Hmm?"

She gestured to the chair, "no more staying still?"

"No more staying still," he agreed.

She gave a cheer before fairly skipping towards the doorway, "oh!"

"Yes?"

"We're going boating later, are you coming?"

"I wouldn't miss it for the world."

"Wonderful!"

He found that his smile did not fade even when silence replaced the sound of her retreating footsteps.

"Do you think I should accept?"

"You've already decided to," she said.

"I haven't…"

He quieted at the look she gave him.

"Big brother, this is the opportunity of a lifetime."

"But what if...what if I bring disaster for the family again?"

"It's different," she told him, "it's not like when father had received his promotion. Besides, you're just going to be WuAhGe's personal secretary. It's not like you'll be attending court. The chances of you offending someone important is pretty low."

"You think I'd offend someone?"

"Not on purpose, no, but you know you're too full of just righteousness for your own good sometimes."

"I don't…"

"I know you're observant and intelligent enough to know when to hold your tongue," she interrupted him again, "and unlike me, you have the self control needed to actually do it...but still...you'll have to be more careful than you're used to. You won't be the big fish in a small pond anymore."

"Father and mother said the same thing, though in more roundabout ways."

"We'll miss you, big brother," she laid her head on his shoulder.

"You'll be allowed to visit."

"You'll have enough to adjust to without bothersome little sisters getting in the way."

"I must admit I'm going to miss the bothers you bring."

She chuckled but said, "you'll be far too busy. You've also got LaoFoYe to impress."

"How…"

She lifted her head and repeated her earlier phrase, "it's the chance of a lifetime."

He threw a pebble into the lake, "I've known her for not even a month."

"Then you must go, even if it's just to learn if what you feel is real."

"And if I find that BeiJing does not suit me?"

"Then come home," she shrugged, "we won't turn you away."

"Promise me one thing," he said after a long silence.

"What's that?"

"Don't grow up too much while I'm away."

She laughed in response.

"I'm being serious," he told her, "you're already different from the little girl who complained about needing to behave herself in front of important guests."

"I promise I'll be extra troublesome, to keep our parents from missing you too much, alright?"

"Good." He said emphatically.

"We've had a letter."

She looked up briefly from the pot but did not stop stirring the sticky mixture within it. "Oh?"

Her mother nodded, "it just arrived."

"I'm almost done," she said as she started pouring the batter into the molds.

"What are you making this time?"

"GuiHua candies," she responded, her hands steady as she continued her task. "They should just melt on the tongue. Poor Luan-er jiejie hasn't been able to keep anything down this past week. Hopefully these will give her a little bit of energy."

"It'll be sure to be a boy again, with how she's reacting to the pregnancy."

"Of course it'll be another boy," FangCi said as she tapped the molds on the table to let the sugar settle, "the Fang family only ever has sons."

"Except you."

"Except me," FangCi declared with a wide grin, "and I like to stay special."

Her mother laughed, "your father should be home soon. We'll read the rest of your brother's letter together."

FangCi nodded.

Her brother wrote at least once a month. It had become a tradition over the last year for her father to read the letters out loud right before supper time. His words described a world very different from the one she was used to; there were many more rules and restrictions. The list of titles and proper greetings for each of them made her feel dizzy just listening to her brother's descriptions. But he also described other things that sounded magnificent, like the overthetop celebrations for each major holiday, the grand spectacle for the winter review of ice skating troops, and the friendly competitiveness of the Spring Hunt.

This time, though, there were two letters.

"WuAhGe has been made RongQinWang and your brother is to be his head of security."

"A large responsibility," his mother said.

"But definitely within brother's abilities," FangCi said, "he's probably glad to be able to be more active again, isn't he?"

Her father scanned the next few lines in the letter before chuckling, "You do know your brother well."

She shrugged, "Brother may be wenwushuanquan, but he has always preferred wu to wen. I bet he's been responsible for WangYe's safety even before this official position was given to him."

Her father just continued to read the rest of the letter. "Ah, he says RongQinWang has included his own message for us."

"Oh?"

Mother and daughter both looked curious.

FangZhiHang opened the seal and read out loud the formal message.

FangCi frowned a little as she sorted through the convoluted language, "wait...is he inviting us for a visit?"

"It does seem that way."

"Oh. Will we accept?"

Her parents looked at each other.

"It would be rude to refuse a prince," her mother said at last.

"And matters have been relatively quiet at the magistrate lately."

"So we're going?"

Her mother hid a smile at her hopeful expression while her father looked through the letter one more time.

"Well?"

"I don't know...I haven't traveled in so long; and BeiJing is so far away."

"You've been to YunNan, that's even further," FangCi insisted.

"Hmmm…"

Her mother coughed into her handkerchief.

"Ah, is 娘子 feeling unwell? We cannot make such a journey if you are ill."

"Stop baiting XiaoCi," her mother admonished.

Her father at last smiled, "hmmm, as your mother said, it would be rude to refuse a prince."

"Oh!" FangCi clapped her hands together in gladness.

"And where do you think you're going?" Her mother's voice stopped her before she could get too far.

"To pack?"

"Shuo feng jiu shi yu...I thought you've outgrown such tendencies. We haven't even started on supper."

She meekly returned to her seat, "sorry mother."

Her mother tempered her scolding with a smile, "I'm excited to see your brother too."

"Do you think I'll be able to see ZiWei and Qing-er too?"

"It should be easy enough to visit HuanZhuGeGe at XueShiFu, but Qing-GeGe lives in the palace…"

"Right…" she sighed at the realization.

"But maybe she'll be allowed to visit with HuanZhuGeGe too," her mother speculated.

"Maybe…" still, FangCi's good mood had returned, "so when do we leave?"

She didn't even mind her parents' amused laughter.

RongQinWangFu was a rather imposing structure. The very gates that they passed through seemed more fitting for a city than for an estate.

As she followed behind her parents who in turn followed a servant with an oddly high pitched voice through the many turns and hallways of the estate, she couldn't help but feel a bit lost. What in the world was she doing in such a large and ostentatious place?

But then she saw her brother's smiling face and gave a whoop of glee. Heedless of manners, she ran forward to give him a huge hug, "brother!"

"XiaoCi!" His voice sounded disapproving but his grin told a different story.

"XiaoCi."

She turned then and saw the prince standing with an amused expression on his face.

She flushed a little and dipped a curtsy, "WangYe."

"I'm glad you have arrived safely," was all he said before he turned to greet her parents.

They were shown to guest quarters that were decorated in a far more simple manner much to her relief. She really had been afraid that she'd break some priceless heirloom. She didn't think she needed the time for a nap, but either the bed proved much too comfortable or traveling was far more tiring than she thought.

"Xiaojie?"

She frowned.

"XiaoJie." The voice was more insistent this time.

"Five more minutes, JinSuo. Just five more minutes." Her eyes stayed closed.

"Xiaojie, shaoye says to be up by three o'clock so that you can have a tour...he's no doubt worried that xiaojie will become lost."

Tour? She blinked up at the unfamiliar canopy overhead for a moment before bolting into a sitting position. "JinSuo! We're in BeiJing now, aren't we?"

"Yes, xiaojie," her maid said ever patiently, "and in RongQinWangFu no less."

"Huh," she got out of bed and looked around the room. It looked oddly comfortable. She wondered if her brother had any say in the decorations. He was thoughtful like that. She shrugged and let JinSuo help her dress. She tried to fuss when JinSuo took special care with her hair.

"It's just brother."

"And WangYe."

"What?" She stilled.

"And WangYe," JinSuo repeated.

"But why?"

"He is the host. Xiaojie came at his invitation. WangYe is polite."

"That he is," FangCi admitted.

She expected him to just offer a greeting, but instead he kept them company the rest of the afternoon and personally gave them a tour of the estate.

"WangYe surely has other important tasks to attend to," her mother protested.

"It's alright," he answered, "there are areas not shown to most guests; areas that are more private."

"There is no need for special treatment," her father said.

The prince just smiled, "FangYan is in charge of my safety. As such, no area of the estate is closed to him. Because you are his family, I extend the same courtesy to you. If you have need to find him during your stay, I give my leave for you to roam freely."

"WangYe shows much trust in us."

"FangYan has proven himself worthy. And as he credits his parents with his success, so then I will treat you with all honor."

Her father made polite inquiries of the places shown until they came upon what must be the library.

"Go ahead, Master Fang, you have my permission to explore."

Her father gave a quick thanks before delving into the shelves of scrolls and books.

"WangYe knows not what you have done," her mother shook her head, "My husband will not emerge willingly from this treasure trove."

"FangDaRen is learned. I have arranged for him to meet with JiShiFu and other scholars on the morrow. I imagine they will have many merry discussions."

"娘子! Come see! Such wonders!"

"If WangYe will excuse me."

"Please. I will have a servant come find you when it's time for supper."-

Her mother nodded and left to join her husband.

The prince turned towards his remaining companion, "XiaoCi?"

"Yes?"

"It's not like you to be so quiet."

"It's just a bit overwhelming," she waved her hand vaguely, "I mean, I knew you were a prince but all this…"

"They're just things, I'm still me."

"Just RongQinWang?"

He was relieved to hear her teasing tone, "and that is just a title. I hope you will not let it stand in the way of our friendship."

"Friendship?"

"Have I been presumptuous in thinking of you as a friend?"

She blinked, "I…"

"Your brother may be in name under my command, but I also think of him as a friend."

She thought for a moment; if her father could be friends with the emperor, surely she could be friends with a prince.

She nodded, "friends."

He returned her smile.

"Brother?"

"Hmmm?"

"What's wrong with his voice?"

"Whose?"

"XiaoLuZi."

Her brother looked up from the list that said eunuch had just delivered, "what do you mean?"

"His voice is so...reedy, almost like one of the opera singers."

Her brother blinked, "XiaoCi...XiaoLuZi is a eunuch."

His sister blushed crimson at the revelation, "oh."

"Not all who serve WangYe are. But the core group who he trusts with his most personal care he brought over from JinYangGong."

"Oh," she said again before clearing her throat, "how silly of me, I should have realized…"

"It's alright," her brother said kindly, "it took me by surprise too, in the beginning. I mean, one hears about them but to actually meet one.."

"It's rather barbaric," she decided, "to take away someone's manhood like that."

"Ah, do not pity them unnecessarily. Some eunuchs are more powerful than even the highest ranking official. Gao gong gong for example has the emperor's ear; and Pu gong gong's influence over LaoFoYe is not to be underestimated."

"Speaking of LaoFoYe…"

Her brother sighed, he had expected his sister to ask. "She wasn't just a passing fancy, if that's what you mean."

"And?"

"And what?"

At his sister's impatient expression, he added "I don't know."

"Don't know?"

"Our chances to meet are few and far between. Besides, what does it matter if she still feels the same way?"

"What does it matter?! Of course it matters!"

"XiaoCi...I have learned this past year, that some things cannot be overcome."

"I don't understand."

"LaoFoYe is determined that Qing-GeGe deserves only the best and I…"

"You are the best, because she loves you and you love her."

"It's not so simple."

"It should be," she insisted stubbornly.

He smiled sadly at her, "not everything that should be gets to be."

"Well not with that attitude," she said bracingly, "at least...at least let me find out if she still feels the same?"

"How are you going to do that?"

"WangYe says he'll take us to visit XueShiFu tomorrow. I'll talk to ZiWei. I refuse to believe that between the two of us we can't think of something."

"I should stop you."

"But you won't," she grinned at him, "because you know it would be pointless to try."

"It's a good thing you weren't born a boy."

"Hmm?"

"I shudder at the chaos you would bring to the world order!"

"Hey!"

Unexpectedly, he slung an arm around her and gave her a quick squeeze, "I'm glad you're here, meimei."

It turned out that she didn't have to ask ZiWei after all. Or rather, she ended up asking ZiWei a different question.

"What is that?"

JinSuo followed her gaze, "WangYe sent it over."

"Yes...but what is it?"

Just then a knock sounded, "XiaoCi."

"WangYe."

He also looked at the displayed clothing, "does it fit?"

"Fit?"

"I could have the tailor adjust it if it doesn't."

"Adjust...you mean, I'm supposed to wear it?"

"Well of course, you have to be dressed properly when you go to CiNingGong."

"Go to CiNingGong?"

"Are you alright?" He asked in concern, "you're just repeating everything I say."

"I…" she took a deep breath, "start at the beginning. What's this about me going to CiNingGong?"

"It won't be until next week," he told her, "to give you time to learn some of the proper behaviors." He looked apologetic, "it's unavoidable I'm afraid. LaoFoYe even offered to send GuiMoMo, but I thought ZiWei would be a much better teacher. These clothing were prepared so that you wouldn't stand out too much when you go into the palace."

"Go into the palace," she felt faint, "me?"

"Well yes, I thought you'd like to see Qing-er and LaoFoYe has also expressed hope to hear another one of your stories."

"I need to sit down…"

"Xiaojie…" JinSuo helpfully brought over a stool.

"XiaoCi?"

When had he approached?

"Why are you kneeling on the ground?"

JinSuo helpfully brought over another stool.

"I'm sorry, I should have told you earlier. I had planned so much for your visit...I just wanted to ensure that you would enjoy your time here."

"You planned…"

"You are my guest."

"But I thought...I thought you invited us for brother's sake. To help celebrate his promotion."

"Oh. It does seem that way, doesn't it? And yes in part I did intend that but also…"

Unnoticed by either of them, JinSuo quietly made her departure, a smile hovering over her lips.

"Also because I…" no, it wasn't time, he couldn't…not yet, "also out of selfishness...because...because I was feeling lonely."

"Lonely?"

"It's hard to find someone who doesn't let my position keep them from sharing their true thoughts. ErTai used to, to some extent, but even he could be too polite. And anyways he's still away in Tibet. ErKang would, but he serves HuangAhMa first. Your brother does, but he is restricted by the inherent inequality of our positions. The only one I can depend upon to speak their mind at all times is…"

"Is me." She finished for him.

"Yes."

She just looked at him; so it wasn't just emperors who could be lonely. She stood and ran her fingers over the displayed gown. The material was very fine. Looking at it with a merchant's eyes, she could easily see the detail and skill of the craftsmanship.

"A gown like this could feed a regular family for a whole year, if not more."

"And you haven't even looked at the jewelry and ornaments that go with it," he had joined her side.

"Jewelry?"

He nodded and opened the boxes.

"Goodness. All this just for one trip into the palace?"

Well he hoped it would be far more than a single trip, but he kept his thoughts to himself. "And the shoes."

"Shoes?"

He gestured downwards and she looked.

"They look like flower pots."

"Qing-er once told me they're meant to force the wearer to stand and walk with proper posture. You won't be able to run or hop easily in them, I'm afraid."

"But I suppose one doesn't run or hop in the palace anyways."

He smiled a little, "no, one does not."

She looked back at the gown, "how does one wear it, exactly?"

"Ah...umm...I don't know," he admitted.

"How can you not know?"

"Well...I've never worn one."

"I should hope not," her lips twitched.

They looked at each other and came to the same conclusion. "ZiWei."

She laughed at their unified answer and he found himself grinning at her infectious joy.

"Good thing we're going to XueShiFu tomorrow then."

ZiWei was all too willing to provide her assistance and even had her maid pull out her own gowns to show JinSuo how to put the various pieces on her xiaojie.

"I feel ridiculous," FangCi said as she balanced on the flower pot shoes and took tentative steps around the room.

"Your martial training helps," ZiWei seemed pleased.

"I'm surprised more ladies of the court aren't pros. All those times I had to center myself...I would have definitely learned much faster had I known these shoes existed."

"Most ladies of the court wouldn't dream of doing anything more strenuous than a stroll around YuHuaYuan."

"So oh so stimulating," FangCi's sarcasm made ZiWei smile.

"You know," FangCi continued as she took another turn about the room, "I think that's the true reason there's so much drama in the palace; the women are just really, really bored."

"You may be right," ZIWei said thoughtfully.

"Maybe I should suggest it to LaoFoYe. Fitness classes for everyone! I'll even teach it!"

ZiWei laughed but then quickly stopped when her friend stumbled. "Be careful!"

"I'm fine." FangCi said even as she held out her arms for balance.

"It'll be even harder once I put the headdress on too."

"Is that what that is?"

ZiWei nodded.

"The Manchu has a very strange sense of fashion," FangCi declared, "not at all practical. Aren't they a horse riding people?"

"That's why there are trousers underneath the overlaying skirt," ZiWei explained, "the slits on the side allow for easier movements atop a horse. But the upper class women are supposed to demonstrate good breeding through proper posture and form. That's why there are rules even on how to swing your handkerchief when you walk."

"And I have to learn all of it just for one trip to see LaoFoYe? Won't I be sitting most of the time anyways?"

"LaoFoYe is in charge of upholding tradition and rules for the whole palace. These things are important to her."

"She must have thought the worst of me then."

"You were not in the palace at the time; even LaoFoYe can relax her standards when she's on the road. But now you're actually entering into her domain."

"Fine, I'll learn," FangCi grumbled.

"If nothing else...I am grateful for your company and the distraction," ZiWei told her friend, "ErKang is being much too overprotective, but I do so hate to see him worry."

FangCi's expression softened when looked over to see ZiWei holding a protective hand over her rounded abdomen.

"Any child is precious. Cousin Shen-er was much the same way when Jing-er jiejie was with child; Cousin Qi-er is not faring any better. But Luan-er jiejie said that as much annoyance as she feels at being treated like a fragile piece of glass, she can enjoy the pampering. Besides, it helped reassure her that Cousin Qi-er will be an attentive father."

"I know ErKang will be a good AhMa."

ZiWei's smile looked so sweet that FangCi couldn't help but smile with her. "Of course he will be. He fairly dotes on you; if this child is a girl, she'll be impossibly spoiled."

ZIWei laughed, "and if it's a boy?"

"Then he will be a paragon of virtue and a master of all talents. And a little heartbreaker to boot."

"What?"

"Neither you nor ErKang are lacking in looks, of course any child of yours will be beautiful and handsome."

"I should hope any child of mine will also be humble and thoughtful."

"They will be," FangCi declared.

"ENiang said it's natural to worry about such things, particularly with the first child," ZiWei murmured.

"Hmm...if even you worry, then I will downright panic."

"XiaoCi?"

"I know what a troublesome child I was to raise. Brother likely felt like he was a third parent."

"Would you like to have children one day?" ZiWei was honestly curious.

"Of course," FangCi said, "is a child not the ultimate symbol of a couple's commitment to and love for one another?"

"Not always…" ZiWei said quietly.

"Ah but I'd like it to be true for myself."

"Who knew you'd be a romantic?"

FangCi smiled, "it's inevitable. The way my parents are with each other...you mark my words, your child will see the same affection and dedication between you and ErKang and will want nothing less for him or herself."

"That was very well done," Qing-er praised as they strolled through the gardens.

FangCi grinned, "I couldn't let ZiWei down; she spent a lot of time and effort making sure I'd be presentable."

"It is all very fussy, isn't it? I've gotten used to it, but I can sympathize still."

FangCi shrugged, "every culture has its own quirks. When we were in YunNan, we had to learn the social customs of the Bai tribe. It was easier for me, being so little, and I just mimicked what others did or just followed mother's whispered instructions. And if I made any mistakes, well, it was charming because I was still just a child. ZiWei is a good teacher in that she explains the reasons behind the various gestures. I always learn things better when there's context."

"Given your carefree nature, it's easy to assume that you are incapable of seriousness. But that would be wrong."

"Shhh…" FangCi whispered conspiringly, "don't give away the secret. Then people might actually have expectations I'd be obliged to meet."

Qing-er laughed.

"I'd much rather be underestimated," FangCi said, "it ensures some freedom to be myself."

"Positively devious of you."

"Thank you, Thank you." FangCi's sparkling eyes though gave away her amusement.

"And how are you enjoying your visit thus far?"

"Very much. It's so good to see my brother again. He's learned new moves, but then so have I, so sparring with each other was a learning experience for both of us."

Qing-er smiled. Trust XiaoCi to talk about fighting.

"Father joins us too. He still hasn't taught us all the moves in the family repertoire. Though honestly I think he created some of them and keeps them secret on purpose just so he can surprise us and ensure his victory."

"I imagine most fathers are both proud and fearful when their sons surpass them."

"Father is mostly just proud I think. I overheard some of their conversation before father had to return home."

"Oh, I wasn't aware your father was no longer in BeiJing."

FangCi shrugged, "he never intended to stay for the whole month. Mother says he has 职业病; even just the brief time he's been away makes him go into withdrawal."

Qing-er laughed, "no wonder HuangShang and your father get along so well despite their differences in opinions on so many topics; they both have the same sickness."

"Is it contagious you think? Or a matter of heredity?"

"Hmmm?"

"Brother and WangYe seem to have the same problem. They've been working on something important lately, I can tell."

"You haven't found out what it is?"

"I may be nosy, but even I know when I shouldn't cross the line. Besides, they're trying so hard to pretend everything is normal, I don't have the heart to tell them that they're being fairly obvious."

Qing-er frowned, "if you can tell…"

"Only because I know them so well."

"Even WangYe?"

FangCi blinked, "WangYe is a friend. And he's not so unreadable when he's at home."

"He must trust you."

"He trusts brother."

Qing-er just smiled.

"Speaking of brother…"

Qing-er's smile faded, "I thought that what I felt was mutual but...but I can wrong too."

"Wrong? Wait, you think brother doesn't care for you?"

"If he does, why hasn't he said anything? This past year, he has earned a reputation for being most capable and dependable. There are other princes who would love to steal him from RongQinWang, but your brother remains loyal. Whether he's purposefully being ignorant or truly unaware of his worth I cannot say, but I do know that he has been the topic of much speculation."

FangCi frowned, "what are you saying?"

"Before RongQinWang's...accident...there was a certain expectation for his future…"

"Yes, I know. That was the reason for his melancholy early during his stay with us."

"Yes…and he seems to have recovered well. He is excelling in his role as QinWang just as much as he had as an AhGe. But the other princes have also adjusted to the new reality; the competition is growing fervent once more."

"And my brother?"

"Your brother's talent alone makes him desirable. Add on HuangShang's favor...is it any wonder that he's sought after?"

"HuangShang's favor?"

"What else could have enabled the son of a provincial magistrate to become WuAhGe's personal secretary so easily?"

"But…"

"Oh I know your brother earned it on his own merits; and others have seen his abilities for themselves this past year."

"Including LaoFoYe?"

"Yes."

FangCi paced, her mind sorting through all that she's been told. Suddenly, she came to a stop, "Oh heavens he's been an idiot."

"What?"

FangCi was exasperated, "brother thought for certain LaoFoYe would refuse his suit."

"Oh."

"I can tell you that he has no desire to be drawn into the princes' battle; he just wants to 踏踏实实 do good where he can. After what had happened to father, after the almost annihilation of our entire family, of course he's weary of those with ulterior motives and higher ambitions. Following WangYe allows him the opportunity to serve without those distractions."

"Oh," Qing-er said again, her expression clearing.

FangCi sighed, "brother is like that. No matter the consequences, he would always do what he considers to be the right thing."

Qing-er accepted FangCi's assessment; it certainly made sense based on what she knew of FangYan. But the question remained…"Why hasn't he explained himself to me?"

FangCi sighed again, "Because he convinced himself that he could never win you. And so he chose to leave you be, for both your sakes."

"It was not just his decision to make." Qing-er insisted.

"I'll remind him, when I get back today."

"I will make sure he knows," Qing-er lifted her chin determinedly, causing FangCi to smile.

"Excellent. Brother needs someone to save him from himself sometimes."

"Did you have a good visit?"

FangCi beamed at her companion, "wonderful! Thank you so much for arranging it."

"Even though you had to learn new rules?"

FangCi laughed; nothing could spoil her mood today. "It was well worth the trouble."

He smiled at her good spirit. "I'm glad."

"Where are we going now?"

"To YanXiGong. I promised YongYan I'd visit and LingGuiFei would enjoy a visit from you too."

"YongYan?"

"My fifteenth brother. He's quite clever despite his young age. He's actually been asking me when he would get to meet you."

"Meet me? How would he know about me?"

"I may have talked about you."

Was he blushing? FangCi blinked. No, it must have been her imagination. "What lies have you been telling him?"

She could tell by his almost smile that he knew she was joking.

"I make it a habit to be honest with YongYan as much as I can."

"Hmm...does any royal prince ever really have a childhood?"

"What do you mean?"

"My opinion might be skewed, since you're the only prince I know, but you carry yourself with such gravity and seriousness. I have a hard time imagining you ever playing pranks or getting into scrapes."

"I suppose I have always been diligent in my studies."

"And 15-AhGe?"

"Reminds me a lot of myself at his age," Yongqi confessed.

"Hmmm."

"What's that look for?"

"I'm trying to decide how shocking I should behave, if only to see if I can get him to behave his age."

"YongYan is rather unflappable most of the time."

"Is that a challenge?"

He couldn't decide whether or not to be fearful of the glint in her eyes. "XiaoCi?"

Her smile was all too innocent, "Yes?"

"I do happen to like this particular brother."

She tilted her head consideringly, "Hmm...that's a rare thing for you to say, isn't it?"

"I…"

Her smile was kinder, "Between ZiWei and Qing-er, I understand things a little bit better now."

"XiaoCi…"

"I understand you better now," she added in a quieter voice.

"XiaoCi…"

There was something in the way that he said her name that made her heart beat faster than it should. There was also something in the way he looked at her that made her feel flushed.

He cleared his throat and the moment seemed to pass. "Shall we continue?"

She blinked, not having been aware that they had stopped walking, "oh, of course. We shouldn't keep GuiFeiNiangNiang or 15-AhGe waiting."

"XiaoCi?"

"Hmmm?"

"Are you alright?"

"Oh of course!"

ZiWei looked doubtful, "you just seem...preoccupied."

"I've just been thinking about brother and Qing-er, that's all."

ZiWei did not look completely convinced, but she let it be. "Thank you for bringing me the update."

"Oh of course!" FangCi seemed almost back to normal. "I just hope there's a resolution before mother and I return home."

"Would you extend your stay?"

"What do you mean?"

"If there isn't a resolution."

"Oh. As much as I want to ensure that things come to fruition, I can't impose on WangYe like that."

ZiWei felt for certain that her brother wouldn't mind the imposition at all. "You could stay here, at XueShiFu."

"Ah, you're really that bored?"

"Think about it?"

"You're being serious." FangCi's expression was one of disbelief.

"Haven't you always wanted to see the world? A month really is too short a time to see the city."

"I…"

"You don't have to answer now," ZiWei said kindly, "But I do extend the invitation in earnest."

A knock sounded on the doorway.

"Oh, is it time to go?"

The prince nodded apologetically.

"I'll think about it." FangCi told ZiWei before saying her goodbye.

RongQinWang looked at her curiously as they sat in the carriage, "What will you be thinking about?"

"ZiWei invited me to extend my stay in BeiJing."

"Oh."

She looked at him as though searching for something. "Do you think I should?"

Yes, the word leapt to his lips, but he didn't wish to pressure her, "the choice is yours."

"Oh but…"

Whatever she was going to say, however, was cut short as their horse suddenly let out a whinny and their carriage swayed dangerously.

"Oof!"

His arm closed about her naturally as she was knocked off balance, but he was given little time to savor the moment as an arrow whistled through the window and landed dangerously close to where his head had just been.

More arrows followed and embedded themselves into the walls of the carriage.

"We have to get out of here," he told her.

FangCi's eyes were wide but she nodded.

"We're going to have to jump, or risk crashing with the carriage."

She took a deep breath before nodding again.

Having gained her permission, he wrapped both arms around her before bursting out of the carriage. He felt as an arrow pierced into his arm and he bit his lip to keep from crying out.

FangCi recovered first once they stopped rolling. The arrows had been replaced by menacing figures dressed in black. She could tell they were outnumbered. She also saw that RongQinWang was wounded. Without thinking, she grabbed ahold of the hilt of his sword and pulled. It was heavier than her own sword, but she still entered into a fighting stance.

The first clash jolted her arm, but she just gritted her teeth and continued moving. There was little time to think or feel; she could just react and hope all her training was enough to buy them some time.

"XiaoCi! Behind you!"

With barely a thought, she instinctively pushed backwards with her blade and felt as it connected with soft flesh. The grunt she heard was all the evidence she had of another fallen foe before she was forced to dance away from another incoming attack.

At one time, she stood back to back with WangYe, who must have gained a knife from one of their enemies. For a moment, she could pretend it was just another of their sparring sessions. But the sharp sting as she felt a slash on her arm reminded her that it was definitely no fun and games. Worst thing was she could see WangYe beginning to tire out of the corner of her eye. Her movements thus gained a new sort of desperation.

"XiaoCi!"

She whirled and pointed her sword at someone's neck.

"XiaoCi, it's me. It's alright."

Oh. It was her brother. She stared at him, dumbfounded, even as he said soothingly, "it's alright, meimei, I'm here now."

Only then did she have a chance to look at her surroundings, and immediately became sick.

"It's alright," her brother's touch was so gentle as he wrapped an arm about her.

"I killed them," she whispered, the sword sliding out of her grasp with a clatter.

"Yes. In self defense. I am proud of you for saving your life and ensuring WangYe's safety."

"WangYe!" She looked around to see an utterly exhausted looking Yongqi leaning against a horse. The ring of guards around him kept careful watch.

"I'm afraid you'll have to be brave for a little bit longer; WangYe is hiding it well, but the excitement has caused the poison in his system to reactivate. Soon, he will be in unspeakable pain unless we manage to sedate him."

She looked into her brother's eyes and took strength from his steadiness. "Let's go."

The water in which she was submerged was soothing but she couldn't help still feel unclean. Events on arrival back to RongQinWangFu had been a blur. Two things though, stood out. The first was her mother's worried eyes when she saw the bedraggled group arrive. The other was the press of WangYe's hand on hers before he took the sedating medication.

She wrapped her arms about her knees, hearing the water slosh gently. Somehow JinSuo must have helped her undress and led her to the tub, because she didn't remember at all.

"XiaoCi?"

She looked up, "mother."

She must have looked a fright, because her mother's expression spoke of such tenderness, "Oh, XiaoCi."

She raised her hands in front of her face, "there's blood on my hands."

"Your brother told me about how heroic you were."

She shook her head, "I don't feel like a hero."

"Oh my daughter…I am just so happy that you're alive if not completely well. Come now, let me dress your wounds before you turn into a prune."

"How long have I been in here?"

"Long enough."

The gentle chiding of her mother's voice was so familiar that FangCi felt the knot in her heart starting to loosen. She let her mother ring the water from her hair, let her wrap her in the dressing gown, let her guide her feet towards her bed.

The pungent scent of the salve brought her attention back to the present.

"You always hated this when you were younger," her mother said quietly as she dabbed at the various cuts and bruises, "and refused to hold still most of the time."

"I wanted to wear them like badges of honor," FangCi answered just as softly, "because I acquired them in pursuit of family tradition."

"I have never been more glad that I allowed your father to teach you."

FangCi reached to wipe away her mother's tears, "I'm here, mother."

Her mother put away the tray of supplies and held her daughter's hands, "I know, XiaoCi. I am glad despite the loss of your innocence. It's a price that you should not have had to pay. As a parent, I feel like I have failed."

"But why? You and father and brother ensured that I would have the tools to survive."

Her mother tucked a stray hair behind her ear, "My XiaoCi has grown up."

There was something bittersweet in her mother's expression.

"Tuck me in nonetheless?"

Her mother smiled.

"Tell me a story?" She asked as she snuggled beneath her coverings.

Her mother reached for her hand again. And so it was to the soothing sound of her mother's voice and the warmth of her touch that she drifted off to a well earned rest.

"Hu TaiYi, how is WangYe?"

It was a question she had asked often for the past three days.

"I've managed to control the poison once more and am planning to lighten the sedation this afternoon."

"Oh, good." Her relief was palpable.

"Fang xiaojie must care to rest too; your wounds will heal better."

She shook her head, "just scrapes and bruises, HuTaiYi's salve works like magic."

"Forgive me for speaking out of place, but WangYe would not wish to see xiaojie so weary."

"I'll feel better once he wakes," she answered.

The physician nodded, "I will take my leave to prepare the new medicine for WangYe."

She smiled at him, "thank you, HuTaiYi. WangYe is lucky to have your expertise."

The royal physician looked between her and the sleeping prince, "no, Fang xiaojie, WangYe is the lucky one."

He was gone before she could ask for an explanation. But then, maybe she didn't need to.

"I decided," she told him, feeling just a little silly for continuing to talk to him when he wasn't awake. But she didn't know if she would have the courage had he been awake, "I want to stay. Because you owe me a life debt now. And I need you to repay it. I've even thought about what I want…" she traced his features with a finger, "以身相许...because I…" she paused, "because you obviously need more than brother to look after you."

She leaned and pressed a kiss to his forehead, "I'm taking advantage, I know, but...would you let me do this if you were awake?"

She made sure she was smiling when he stirred.

"XiaoCi?"

"In all the stories, it's the hero who saves the beauty...does this make you my beauty?"

He smiled at her quip.

"WangYe will still feel weak for a few days yet, so cheng will be sure to add strengthening broths to your regimen."

"Thank you, HuTaiYi."

The physician took the prince's pulse one more time before bowing and departing the room.

FangCi helped the prince sit and then took up the bowl of medicine.

"I can manage," he protested when she brought the spoon to his lips.

She shook her head stubbornly, "you heard him, you'll still be weak. I can't let you spill and burn yourself."

"XiaoCi…" there was that same look again.

"Drink up," she said quietly in response.

"Brother explained it to me," she told him after she set the now empty bowl back on the table, "about how you and he have been investigating a series of embezzlement of the national funds. He didn't expect them to act so fast. Though of course he had contingency plans in place."

"I'm sorry you became embroiled."

She shrugged, "it's usually that way with me; the best laid plans are no match for my special brand of luck."

"Still…"

"Besides, all's well that ends well. Anyone should think twice about ever crossing you again."

"Because I have such notable warriors at my side?"

"You can't be talking about me."

"But aren't you my hero?"

She smiled at his teasing, "HuTaiYi truly is a marvel; you already seem much better."

"HuTaiYi is indeed gifted," he agreed, "but it's a medicine that he did not prescribe that's helping me the most."

"WangYe…"

"Thank you."

How was it that though he squeezed her hand just the once, her skin remained tingling where he had touched it?

She forced herself to keep her tone light. "You told me I was your friend; us Fangs take friendship very seriously."

"Then I am very blessed and honored that you also consider me a friend."

"I'm sorry that your and mother's return home has been delayed while we tie up some loose ends," her brother apologized.

"It's alright," FangCi answered, "I understand. The estate is large enough that I haven't felt too cooped up. I know safety has been your priority."

"Your safety is not just a priority for me, meimei."

"I can defend myself."

"You've proven that, yes. But we'll still worry."

"We?"

"Me and WangYe."

"He of all people should know not to underestimate me."

"Yes, but he cares for you and knowing you're safe gives him much peace of mind."

"WangYe is very considerate."

"Yes." Her brother seemed to hesitate before he asked, "meimei, do you care for him?"

"Well of course. He is a friend."

"A friend you would kill for."

"My own life was also in danger, in case you've forgotten."

He shook his hand, "you could have run."

"And be an dishonorable coward? You and father have taught me better."

"Would you kill for him again, if needed?"

"I told you it wasn't…"

"Meimei," he interrupted her, "you and I are probably the closest people to WangYe. I speak to you not as your brother but as his head of security."

She stared into her brother's eyes and gave her answer without any hesitation, "Yes."

He nodded. "And now, as your brother, I would like to ask the same question. Would you kill for him again, if necessary?"

"Yes." Her gaze remained steady.

He nodded again.

"You don't seem surprised."

"Should I be?"

She blinked.

"He is a good man. And...he cares for you deeply."

"Oh."

"He spoke to father, before he departed."

"What?"

"Mother confronted me within three days of your arrival; she could tell WangYe had ulterior motives for his invitation."

"You mean…"

Her brother nodded, "he really has been lonely, but mostly because he was missing you."

"Oh."

"Father told him the decision would be yours. Coincidentally, it's what I told him too, when he first confessed to me his intentions."

"I…"

Her brother smiled wryly, "it's another thing for which I miscalculated the timing."

"Did you think it would take more or less time?"

"I personally thought WangYe would be too subtle."

"You do know me well." She was quiet for a moment, "do you think ZiWei and Qing-er knew too?"

"Not explicitly, but I'm sure as observant and intelligent as they are, they likely suspected."

"Should you be telling me all this?"

He shrugged, "it seemed the right time."

"WangYe won't be upset that you gave away the game?"

"It's not a game, meimei, not to him."

"I know." Her voice was quiet, "he is too serious a person to trifle about something like this."

"And for all your silliness, you are not one to be frivolous about this matter either."

"I'll make you a bet," she told him after a moment.

"What is it?" He looked appropriately weary.

"I will settle what is between me and WangYe before you figure out what you wish to do about Qing-er."

"XiaoCi…"

She ignored the warning in his voice, "I know what you'll say and I agree, it's certainly not a race. Nonetheless, though Qing-er is in possession of far more patience than I am, it's still cruel to keep her in suspense."

"I've been preoccupied."

She rolled her eyes, "excuses. You're just afraid."

"I'm not…" he sputtered.

"Because it's something you can't control or plan for; there's no manual or standard way to approach it. It's easier to pretend that it's an impossibility even though you clearly know it's not."

"How did this turn into a conversation about me?"

She grinned at his plaintive tone even as she stood, "you know I'm right."

"And where are you going?"

"To make sure I win our bet."

"I never agreed!" But she had already departed.

She slowed as she drew closer to his study. Why was she afraid? He wasn't going to reject her; she trusted her brother. Maybe because there would be no turning back once she told him how she felt. She wouldn't be able to pretend that she was just joking or had made a mistake; she knew he wouldn't let her. She could always wait for him to speak. But...she straightened her shoulders, why would she wait when she knew her heart?

She greeted XiaoLuZi who stood outside the study.

"WangYe is busy?"

"Just finishing his report for HuangShang I believe."

"Should I return later?"

Before the eunuch could answer, however, the prince called out, "XiaoCi? Is that you?"

XiaoLuZi bowed, "go ahead, Fang xiaojie."

She took a deep breath; she didn't think she would have an audience for this conversation. But like ZiWei and Qing-er, XiaoLuZi was not an idiot either if the small smile he gave her was any indication. Did the whole estate know? The thought did not bother her as much as she thought it would.

"WangYe, I'm sorry to disrupt your work."

He smiled at her, "just let me finish this last paragraph."

She nodded and did her best to stay still in her chair. She found herself watching him; he wielded his brush with certainty, his expression one of concentration. His focus on the task before him was admirable. She was reminded of the first time she had seen him train and his fierce determination then to overcome his disability. Her brother was right. He is a good man. A model prince, yes, but a good man. And to think that he cared for her…

"XiaoCi?"

"Hmmm?"

"Please stop staring at me."

"Oh." She blinked, "I'm sorry."

"No. Don't apologize. It's just that I can't concentrate when you look at me like that."

It was now or never, she decided. "Like what?"

He also sensed that something important was happening. He put away his brush and came to sit next to her, "XiaoCi?"

This close, she could see the slight furrow of his brows and the concern in his eyes.

"When were you going to tell me?"

"Tell you what?"

"The true reason you invited me to BeiJing."

He blinked, "oh."

"Yes, oh. Was it all a test? Getting to know your servants, learning the palace rules, meeting 15-AhGe...was it all to see if I could be proper enough?"

"No," he confessed, "I wanted you to see what it would be like and decide if you wanted such a life."

"What it would be like?" She repeated.

"XiaoCi…I want to give you so much, but I also know that there are restrictions and obligations that come with who I am. You should know what they are and decide if you're willing to live with them."

"And what's the alternative? For me to return home after having left my heart in BeiJing? Doom me to being a spinster because no other man would ever measure up? Are you that cruel?"

"XiaoCi?" Did she say what he think she said?

"I see that brother is not the only idiot when it comes to these things."

"XiaoCi…" he didn't know what to say; but that has always been the effect she had on him, wasn't it? Instead, he reached across and held her hand in his, "you're certain?"

"Yes." She felt oddly calm; the warmth of his hand anchored her, settled her.

"Oh." He said again.

"Oh?" She grinned, "it's a good thing I'm not one of those young ladies who enjoys flowery speeches, else your response would leave much to be desired."

"No, you are someone who prefers a more direct approach."

"Yes, I am..." she was cut short, however, as he drew in close and pressed his lips to hers.

"Oh." She breathed out when he parted from her.

He smiled before releasing her hand and returning to his desk, "I'll have another topic to discuss with HuangAhMa when I go meet with him later today."

"Hmmm?"

"He has to make the official edict for marriage."

"Marriage?"

He looked amused, "you did just agree to be my FuJin, did you not?"

"FuJin…" she tried out the sounds and frowned.

"What's wrong?"

"It just sounds so...stuffy."

"Hmm...what would you prefer I call you?"

She tilted her head in thought, "father always calls mother 娘子."

"娘子." He repeated, but she just made another face.

"Nope, too 肉麻." She decided.

"How about you think about it and let me know."

She nodded but then asked, "what should I call you?"

"Hmmm?"

"相公? 夫君? Or do I just keep calling you WangYe?"

She had no idea how much he wanted to kiss her again at hearing those appellations fall from her lips. But he forced himself to stay sitting. "How about...Yongqi."

"Yongqi?"

He nodded, "that is my given name. Or Junting if you prefer, which is my courtesy name. Or even Tengqin Jushi, which is my artistic name."

"My goodness."

He smiled and said again, "the choice is yours."

She looked thoughtful before she also stood and came to his side.

"XiaoCi?" He looked up at her questioningly.

She just grinned and, after pecking him on the cheek, skipped towards the doorway.

"I'll think about it!"

He raised a hand to where she had kissed him wonderingly before smiling broadly.

"XiaoLuZi! Summon FangYan and call for the carriage. We're going into the palace to see HuangAhMa."

She was sitting with her mother when her brother came into their corner of the garden.

"Are you...sewing?"

She looked up, "I can sew, you know, I just don't like to do it."

"Huh."

"Yan-er," her mother said with a slight frown, "what's wrong?"

FangCi also put down her needle; it was unusual for her brother not to tease her more, particularly after the emperor had given his approval for her betrothal to RongQinWang.

"I…"

She exchanged concerned looks with her mother; her brother only paced like that when he was most agitated.

"Yan-er?"

"I…" he paused but then shook his head again and resumed his steps.

FangCi thought carefully. "You went out this morning. Without WangYe."

He made a sound that she took to be agreement.

"And...I thought I saw PuGongGong, when I was sparring with WangYe."

He finally stilled, "Yes."

"Ah. So Qing-er got tired of waiting?"

"How did you…"

She just raised an eyebrow.

"Is it true?" Her mother asked.

"Yes."

"Then…"

"LaoFoYe and HuangShang were both present. I have been given my own estate and...and a new title. It's mostly ceremonial, as I still answer directly to WangYe, but…"

"But Qing-er is a GeGe and things still have to appear a certain way when she marries."

"They said it was my reward for my contributions in the recent cases."

He looked so stunned that she wanted to laugh.

"Congratulations," she offered instead.

"It's so sudden…"

She snorted, "sudden for you maybe. Poor Qing-er has been more than patient."

"I'm glad," her mother commented, "you need someone like her to manage you."

"Mother!" He protested.

But FangFuRen offered no apologies, "you are most capable, my son, but you do not share the ideas in your head enough. And then you get upset when others ruin the plans about which they know nothing. She'll remind you that not everyone follows the same logic."

"I talk to XiaoCi," he protested weakly.

"For which I'm grateful," his mother said briskly, "it does gladden a mother's heart when her children get along so well. But XiaoCi has known you her whole life; Qing-GeGe does not have that luxury. Nonetheless, she has chosen to take a chance and entrust you with her happiness. It may seem like she exerted her position unfairly and forced you into a corner. But for a woman, such a leap of faith is the greatest show of vulnerability. She is essentially putting her whole life into your hands."

On hearing her words, FangYan stood up straighter, "I won't fail her."

"I know you won't. XiaoCi knows you won't. LaoFoYe and HuangShang must also believe it, otherwise they would have never agreed to the match. But what about Qing-GeGe? She is an insightful young lady, but even the most intelligent woman can be plagued by self doubt without any signs of certainty."

He was very quiet, but his mother took heart in his determined expression when he left again.

"Mother, that was brilliant!"

FangFuRen smiled at her daughter's admiring expression, "it's nothing you haven't tried to tell him, I'm sure."

"But definitely not so eloquently."

"I should have talked to him about the matter earlier. But your brother's temperament is such that the more I pushed, the more he would have resisted. I will be sure to counsel Qing-GeGe."

"She will appreciate it."

"She's clever, she would have learned. Besides, she'll have you nearby to help when your brother gets into one of his stubborn moods."

"I wish BeiJing wasn't so far away from home," FangCi admitted, "both brother and I can use your wisdom."

Her mother smiled sadly, "you told me recently that your father and brother and I ensured that you would have the necessary tools... I know that you will not just survive but thrive. I am at once proud and saddened. Though I am assured of both your happiness...it won't be the same."

"You'll just have to travel more often; with or without father."

"Ah your father. He'll complain that HuangShang stole both his children from him."

"And HuangShang will just say that it's father's fault for raising a pair of such good children."

Mother and daughter shared a conspiring look before bursting into laughter.

"XiaoCi."

"WangYe."

JinSuo took the last package and left their company.

"All packed?"

"Just about," she answered.

"I had the cook prepare some of your favorite snacks."

"Yes. They're already packed."

"Good." He seemed at a loss of what else to say.

"Don't look at me like that."

"Like what?"

"Like...like you're never going to see me again. I'm just going back to pack up my things and to say goodbye to my family."

"I know…"

But he still looked so mournful. "Stop it," she admonished.

"I just…"

Her expression softened at how lost he looked, "come here."

He went into her open arms and hugged her close, "I'm going to miss you."

"You lived without me for most of your life," she reminded him.

"I don't know how I managed it."

"You silly. Besides, you'll be much too busy to mope. After recent events, HuangShang has given you even more responsibilities."

"All the more reason you must return to me soon; someone needs to ensure that I maintain some sort of balance between my duties and my own health."

"HuTaiYi will advise it and XiaoLuZi will do his best to enforce it."

"But neither of them are you."

"Oh Yongqi…" her voice was full of fond exasperation.

He suddenly loosened his hold, "what did you just call me?"

She looked quizzically up at him, "Yongqi. Isn't that your name?"

"Yes but you've never used it before."

She shrugged, "I wasn't just going to keep calling you WangYe. It's so impersonal."

Despite the nonchalant manner of her answer, she couldn't help the flushing of her cheeks at the way he was smiling at her.

"Yongqi!" She cried out in protest when he lifted her up and spun around.

"Say it again." He said when he placed her back onto her feet.

She shook her head, "no. Now you're truly being ridiculous."

"XiaoCi…"

"WangYe."

"XiaoCi…"

She hid a grin at the hint of whining in his voice. "You are adorable."

"Shouldn't that be my line?" He asked.

She kissed him lightly on the cheek even as she repeated, "adorable."

He pulled her close again, "come back soon."

"Just think," she said with a smile that he could not see but could hear in her voice, "when next I call you by your name, it'll be as your wife."

"Yes…" he breathed in the scent of her and fixed it in his memory. He was loath to let her leave, but she was right. It was but a brief separation compared to the rest of their lives together as husband and wife.

"Very lovely," FangCi informed her brother as he took them on a tour of the newly dubbed FangFu.

"You were right, meimei."

She gasped at him, "I beg your pardon, I could have sworn you just told me I was right about something."

He just rolled his eyes at her while their parents exchanged an amused look at their children's antics.

She grinned, "alright, what was I right about?"

"You were right to tell me to ask Qing-er for her input on the refurbishing of the estate."

"Well of course. It's going to be her new home."

"Yes…" he looked around them consideringly.

She nudged him gently, "alright big brother, stop pining. She's going to be your bride in less than a week."

"I'm not pining!"

"Uh huh."

"No more than WangYe is, anyways," he amended.

She flushed despite herself. Yongqi had come to welcome her back and had stolen a moment alone during which he kissed her in a way that left her truly breathless. He had apologized for his lapse of self control but she had been too dazed to do anything but nod before they were in company again.

In the present, she reached out to shove at her brother for his self satisfied smirk.

Her father's cough stayed her hand. "The palace must be in an uproar at having to plan two auspicious days in such quick succession."

"Between LaoFoYe and LingGuiFei, I'm sure things are well under control." Her mother said reasonably.

"And it's not our fault that such good dates just happen to be so close together," FangCi remarked.

"Some are calling it a sign," her brother said.

"Oh?"

He nodded, "that the very heavens are looking after the Fang family."

Her father chuckled, "while others say we must practice some form of witchcraft?"

Her brother nodded.

"Ah, some things never change."

"I've been careful, father."

"Too careful, perhaps, from Qing-GeGe's perspective. But she is in possession of a strong spirit. She will make a good partner for you, just as your mother has been for me. Together, you can weather any storm."

"Don't mind your father," her mother said, "he's just being sentimental at the idea of both of you marrying soon."

"I wouldn't have made two trips to BeiJing in the same year for a lesser reason."

"It's a good thing the days are close together then," FangCi noted, "else you would have had to reveal which one of us is your favorite, father."

He laughed, "thankfully, that is a secret I shall take to my grave."

"It's beautiful."

Qing-er nodded, "Yes."

"But brother won't be paying attention to what you're wearing."

Qing-er blushed.

"Well, at one point in the night, he will be."

The comment was so unexpected, coming as it did from ZiWei, that FangCi and Qing-er both stared at their friend in shock.

ZiWei's cheeks were red, but she persisted, "I can't let you get married unprepared."

FangCi made a choked noise, "Hang on, I shouldn't be here for this conversation. Qing-er is marrying my brother."

"And you're marrying mine so you might as well hear it too."

"I'm sure my mother will explain things to me," FangCi insisted as she made her escape.

She settled on a stone stool in the shady corner of the courtyard and laid her cheek onto the the table, hoping its coolness would help.

"XiaoCi?"

She startled and somehow hit her forehead on the table, "ow…"

"Are you alright?"

She jumped out of her seat just before he reached her, "WangYe! What are you doing here?"

"I…" he looked embarrassed as he pulled back his hand. "I was helping YongYan with his schoolwork and...and learned that you were visiting Qing-er…"

"Oh."

He coughed, "I thought you'd be inside."

"But you still came to CiNingGong."

"Yes…"

It was actually oddly sweet. "We would have seen each other at brother's wedding tomorrow."

"I...I can only say...情不自禁?"

"We're in trouble then."

"What?"

"I've been relying on you to be the sensible one."

"Oh?"

She nodded, "You can't deny that you are the one with more practice at self regulation."

"You present a unique challenge."

"Do I?"

"Yes."

His honesty reminded her of the conversation happening between her friends and she had to look away.

"Why are you out here anyways?"

She flushed again, "I just needed some air."

"Is everything alright?"

"Yes."

She must have answered too quickly because she felt his fingers on her chin as he turned her head to look at him again.

"XiaoCi?"

"I'm fine," she reassured him, "I just thought ZiWei and Qing-er would appreciate some privacy for their conversation."

"Privacy?"

She nodded, hoping he wouldn't ask further questions.

He must have seen something in her expression because he just said, "I see."

She coughed, "but they may be done now."

"Ah. Do not let me keep you from their company."

She nodded. She turned back at the doorway to see him still watching her. "See you tomorrow?"

He smiled a little, "Yes. Tomorrow."

She returned his smile before returning indoors.

Yongqi stood a few more moments before giving a little sigh and making his own exit. Soon, he told himself, soon.

"You look beautiful," he told her when the red cloth was removed.

"You don't look too bad yourself," she told him before they picked up their glasses of wine.

He wondered if his smile would remain a permanent fixture even as the room emptied.

FangCi stared at the closed door for a moment before letting out a sigh. His smile broadened as her entire posture relaxed.

"What are you doing?"

"It's heavy," she told him even as she continued to remove her hat. She pulled the pins from her hair and shook her head lightly, "whew, much better."

She stilled again when she felt his fingers run through her hair.

"Beautiful," he whispered again.

Her eyes fluttered closed of their own accord when his fingers traced the contours of her face. The shifting of the bed gave her a warning, but she had no wish to move away from him. His lips against hers were gentle and she gave a contented sigh.

"XiaoCi…"

She opened her eyes then, at the hitch in his breath. "Yongqi."

His eyes lit up at those two syllables and she felt her own giddiness bubble to the surface. To keep from laughing, she reached for his hat.

He held her hands in his when she had removed it. "Thank you for marrying me," he told her.

"From what I've been told, we are not quite married yet." She had no idea where the words came from, but she didn't regret them as he flushed. He really was adorable when he was flustered.

But he wasn't just her Yongqi, he was RongQinWang too and seemed to recover quickly. The way he looked at her alerted her entire being.

"Hmmm...we should fix that, shouldn't we?" He kissed her again, this time more reminiscent of the other time that he had left her breathless.

"Yongqi."

The whisper of his name seemed to spur him on and she felt herself falling before his weight settled on her. She should have felt trapped, but instead she just wrapped her arms about his neck and continued their wordless conversation.

They were both panting when they drew apart.

His fingers trembled as he moved to undress her and she was suddenly reminded of the first time she had seen the courtly gown hanging in her room.

He paused, "What has you so amused?"

"I was just thinking of you telling me that you had no idea how to put on a woman's formal attire. What I'm wearing today is even more complicated."

"Ah, but I'm not trying to dress you and so do not have to pay any attention to how things are supposed to fit."

His pupils were dilated, making his eyes seem unfathomably dark. She wondered if her own eyes mirrored his.

In lieu of answering, she reached to unfasten the buttons on his own shirt.

"XiaoCi…"

"There is no need for self control right now."

He understood that she was giving him permission. They each fumbled and giggled but eventually he felt her bare skin press against his own. He felt like he was drowning and clung to her lips with his for anchoring. His hands wandered and he marveled at the softness of her skin. She squirmed beneath him when he brushed the sides of her torso and he felt a sudden desire to see her.

She watched him watching her and did her best to overcome the need to cover herself with the blanket. She could feel her body responding in instinctual ways and was grateful for her mother's reassurance and counsel to let nature take its course. She whimpered at the feel of his roaming hands and could tell as his touch gained confidence. She should have been embarrassed as his hands cupped her breasts and kneaded the soft flesh, but it all felt too good. Her eyes snapped open when she felt his mouth close around one nipple and then the other.

"Yongqi…"

He seemed to find encouragement in the way she said his name and grew bolder. He toyed with her sensitive buds, eliciting sounds that she hadn't been aware she was capable of making.

She was aware though, of his hand traveling downward until it caressed her inner thigh. He had released her mounds and was now staring at her face again.

"Don't stop."

He groaned at the feel of her readiness. He wanted, needed, to worship at her altar. But the trust in her eyes reminded him that she was still a maid. And so he explored her folds, using her sleekness to guide him, and paused when she gave a sudden shudder.

"Don't stop," she said again.

He could not deny her and found again the spot that had elicited such a strong reaction.

He might have thought she was in pain, just based on her expressions, but for the way her legs opened for him and her hips tilted towards his touch. She looked so beautiful that he found himself telling her so. His voice sounded odd and slightly hoarse to his own ears as he confessed his love, his desire, his need for her. She had redefined his world and he was a better man with her at his side.

He had never felt so accomplished as when she cried out his name at the pinnacle of her pleasure.

He held her gently as she drifted back to earth.

"That was…"

"Good?"

"Yes." She returned his smile before pressing her lips to his. He could spend forever just kissing her, he decided.

"Yongqi?"

"Hmmm?"

"How do I make you feel as good?"

He had never been more thankful for her natural curiosity. He held her hand, caressing it before moving it onto his shaft. Her fingers closed about him and she followed the rhythm he demonstrated. His grasp loosened but she persisted, fascinated at the openness of his expressions. She was in awe that she was allowed to see him like this, to touch him so intimately.

"Move upwards a little."

She complied and felt the sides of her fingers bump against the ridge at the tip of him. Ah, so that was where he was most sensitive. She repositioned herself so that she could rub the slit at the top with her other hand. She looked down when she felt beads of wetness coat her finger. Huh.

"XiaoCi…"

She turned and noticed that he was watching her again.

"Sorry."

"Don't be." He paused as a shiver went through him, "don't stop."

She resumed her movements and experimented by adding a slight twist. She could see the tightening of his muscles beneath her and felt a sense of power that she decided could easily become addictive.

She stopped when his hand wrapped around hers again.

"XiaoCi...I need…"

She laid back down to face him, the words coming to her again seemingly out of nowhere. But she knew they were the right ones as she said them. "Yongqi, I give myself to you."

Her words triggered a possessiveness in him that added to his desperation. He rolled on top of her, pulling her legs so that they rested around his hips, and pressed at last into her waiting wetness. He stilled when he felt her stiffen at the invasion.

"XiaoCi...breath…"

She looked up at him and took comfort in the love that shined in his eyes despite the urgency his body was expressing. "Kiss me."

He was only too happy to comply and swallowed her whimper when he pushed inwards until he rested entirely in her. He had to pause then, both for her sake and his own. He felt as though he had caught a falling star, the brightness of her soul illuminated his world. This sacred connection between them felt amazing, but it also surpassed mere earthly desires.

"You're being awfully poetic. Is it to make up for your lack of eloquence when I first confronted you about your intentions?"

He looked down to see her amused expression. Had he spoken his thoughts out loud?

"I don't mind being your muse," she added.

Her teasing tempted him to render her incapable of thought.

"Yongqi?"

And why shouldn't he? Hadn't she said that it was not the time for self control?

"You make a lovely muse, but I can think of an even better role for you."

"Which is..." Her question gave way to a moan when he retreated and then re-entered her.

"My wife," he whispered in her ear and set about emphasizing his words.

He wasn't going to last long, not with how she felt around him, not with the mingling sounds of their harsh breathing, not with the scent of her surrounding him, not with the way she clung to him…his senses were going into overdrive until his focus narrowed to one primal thought; he needed to claim her in the ultimate way.

"XiaoCi…" her name tumbled from his lips like a prayer as he emptied into her.

She held still beneath him, though he could feel her fingers tracing small patterns on the nape of his neck. He kissed the patch of skin closest to him before shifting to alleviate his weight on her.

"Wait," she said quietly and he quickly obeyed. "Let me hold you a moment longer."

"Mother was very matter of fact," she told him after a brief silence, "such that I had many of my questions answered before tonight. ZiWei and Qing-er offered to talk to me too, but honestly I think they were relieved when I told them mother had explained everything to my satisfaction."

"Was that what they were discussing, that day I saw you in the courtyard at CiNingGong?"

"Yes."

"No wonder you seemed flushed. I was worried you were catching a chill."

"No...I was curious though," she admitted.

"And now?"

"And now...I had thought I'd have an advantage that neither ZiWei nor Qing-er did. Because of our sparring, we are more practiced at being aware of each other physically and more comfortable with such closeness. But the intimacy we have shared...what was it that you said? Ah yes...it does seem to transcend the mere physical acts themselves."

He moved then, so that he could look into her eyes. "XiaoCi…" but words were insufficient to describe what he felt.

"I too can be sentimental."

She was smiling at him, but it seemed different somehow. Quieter, gentler, softer...he saw the promise of forever in the curve of her lips and the shine in her eyes.

"Yongqi."

"Yes?"

Her smile gained an impish edge and the moment passed. "Just wanted to say your name now that I am your wife."

He chuckled and heard her answering mirth. He kissed her on the tip of her nose before pulling the comforter to cover them both. They lay facing each other at first, just relishing the happiness of being together, before he felt the desire to touch her again.

"Come here," he guided her with soft touches until she was wrapped in his arms, his lips conveniently within mere centimeters of her neck and his hands around her abdomen. She obligingly leaned against him, enjoying the dependable steadiness of him at her back.

"I used to think that marriage would simply be another obligation, another item on the list of expectations I was required to fulfill. I told myself that I would be kind to anyone HuangAhMa or LaoFoYe deemed necessary for me to marry, but that any deep attachment would be folly. After all, a ruler could not afford to let any one person, including himself, supersede the needs of his country. It wouldn't have been a sacrifice, not really, because I was ready to settle for just companionship. I didn't think I was capable of making a deeper connection, perhaps because I never allowed myself to consider the possibility."

The pressure of her hands on his was reassuring.

"Every prince should want to become emperor. I have always been very good about doing what I should do, being what I should be. And suddenly, I was free. HuangAhMa and LaoFoYe both mourned a lost future, but I just felt lost. I cursed fate; why would it set me on a certain path only to take it away? I didn't understand, not until we returned to BeiJing, that fate had actually been kind, because everything happened so that I could be worthy of you."

His arms tightened about her, "your words that day revealed a simple faith in my nobility. You innocently assumed that I wanted to become emperor to do good. Your brother too. In my interactions with him, he revealed a certain idealism that would be naive but for his determination and ability to shape the world to match his vision. It's what drives him. And it made me wonder, what was it that drove me? When I was younger, I had tried my hardest to be a good student for my ENiang's sake. She wasn't one of the favored concubines, but she could catch a little bit of warmth because of HuangAhMa's favor towards me. By the time she passed, it had already become an ingrained habit for me to excel for the sake of HuangAhMa's praise and recognition...Then one day, while your brother was telling me a story from your youth, it came to me. Your smile that day across the dinner table, when I had finally put aside my melancholy, I wanted to see it again. I wanted to be someone you would be proud to call a friend. I even went back and reread what your father had written, the better to understand the philosophies he no doubt passed down to both you and your brother. And when ZiWei and ErKang shared their good news, I looked at their obvious happiness and saw a sudden vision of you smiling at me so sweetly."

"And so you decided to take a page from brother's book and make the vision a reality."

"Yes."

"Did you think you would succeed?"

"I certainly hoped I would."

She brought his hand to her lips. "So I am your muse in more ways than one."

He pressed a kiss to her neck in response, "Yes. I almost painted another picture of you."

"From memory?"

He smiled at the amusement in her voice, "Yes. But then I decided it would be a poor substitute for the actual person."

"I suppose…" she said with only slight reluctance, "that I could sit for you again…"

"But only if you ask very nicely," she added.

He laughed and his breath tickled her ear, causing her to squirm a little.

"XiaoCi…" he nuzzled her neck and she felt him stir against her bottom.

"Did you ever doubt my abilities to be a good FuJin?"

"No. I knew you could do it if you chose to."

"If I chose to…" she repeated thoughtfully before wiggling against him purposefully.

"XiaoCi…" his fingers clutched at hers.

She decided to be bold and pulled his hand downwards, "Yongqi…"

He groaned at the contact. His touch made her move more insistently and he answered by plunging a finger and then two into her. It took some dexterity, but he was also able to press his thumb against the spot that gained him a gasp.

"Though I have had a pretty good record of obtaining my goals, I knew that having you in my life was a privilege."

"Why did you not tell me to stay? When ZiWei offered to host me at XueShiFu?" She just barely managed to utter her questions.

"The choice was yours." He answered simply.

And that was it, wasn't it? The amazing thing about him? He understood her nature and respected it enough to cede control.

"I do so enjoy being right," she whispered between moans.

"Hmm?"

"My faith in your nobility was not misplaced." She reached back with a hand and guided his length towards her center.

She shuddered at the feeling of being filled by him once more. "Yongqi…"

The breathy way she uttered his name emphasized clearly her wishes.

He pulled at her hand so that she could feel where they were connected before drawing a single finger upwards. Jointly they rubbed against her most sensitive spot, his own breathing stuttering as she gave out small whimpers. He reached for her hips for balance so that he might drive into her over and over. He could tell by the way she trembled that she had not removed her own finger. The thought aroused him more than he thought was possible.

"XiaoCi...stay with me."

"Yes," she managed to gasp before he quickened his pace.

He held off his own pleasure just long enough to ensure that she was well on her way to the point of no return before he too succumbed.

The blanket was in disarray; he pulled so that it covered them both again.

"Yongqi?"

"Yes?"

She snuggled into his arms, "I have something I wish to confess."

"What is it?"

"I stole a kiss."

"From whom?"

"You, who else?"

"Oh good, I was worried I'd have to arrange for some unfortunate soul's death."

"Brother wouldn't help you with that."

"Who said anything about having your brother do it?"

She turned to look at him, "You're not serious?"

"Wouldn't you do bodily harm to anyone I've kissed who isn't you?"

"Is there anyone?"

He fought against smiling at her frown, "no."

"Good."

He couldn't help but kiss her nose at her emphatic tone. "So, this kiss you stole, why do I have no memory of it?"

"That's why I said I stole it," she said reasonably.

He did smile then.

"It was shortly before HuTaiYi woke you. You looked so peaceful...I couldn't resist."

"Hmm…" he closed his eyes, "go on, show me what you did."

"Now?"

He opened one eye to peek at her briefly, "Yes, now."

She looked at him incredulously for a moment, but his eyes remained closed as he waited.

He smiled again when he felt her shift.

"There."

He opened his eyes to meet hers, "that's it?"

"Yes, what did you think?"

"Well, when you said kiss, I thought you meant…" he leaned down quickly to peck at her lips, "this."

"I was far too innocent to think of something like that."

He smiled at her before kissing her more thoroughly.

"What was that for?"

"The payment for your stolen kiss. With interest."

When she pouted at him, he said, "from now on, you can steal as many kisses as you wish, so long as I can demand similar payment."

She tilted her head, "I can't decide if you are trying to encourage or discourage me."

"You decide."

She made ready to reply but instead was caught unawares by a yawn.

He chuckled and pulled her close again, "after we both get some rest."

She leaned her head on his chest, "goodnight WangYe."

"WangYe?"

She grinned at his playfully offended tone, "goodnight, Yongqi."

He pressed a kiss to her hair, "goodnight, XiaoCi."