As year-end approached, Wei Lin went to Feng Shou Mountain to pay respects to Xu Zhen Immortal and bring Tai Qing down for the New Year. Tai Qing happily grabbed a small bundle and followed Wei Lin. At the Wei residence, she restlessly urged him to see the street festivities. Unable to resist, Wei Lin took her along when treating Lian Yi, accompanied by Wei Feng, agreeing to enjoy mountain delicacies at the largest tavern in Huo City at noon.
After treating Lian Yi, Wei Lin packed her needle bag and mentioned that she wouldn’t come during the busy first month of the New Year. Lian Yi remarked, “These days must have been hard for you, Miss Wei.”
“You know me?” Wei Lin asked.
“I was on duty in the palace when you were young. I saw Lord Wei carry you into the palace. You had a light red mole between your eyebrows,” Lian Yi explained.
“I don’t remember that. It’s getting late, and I have matters to attend to,” Wei Lin replied, smiling, thinking she might eventually hear Lian Yi’s story.
Just as she was about to leave, the door curtain lifted, and Xi Zhaoting entered.
It was cold, and he wore a black brocade fur cloak, startling Wei Lin with his sudden appearance. What was the Crown Prince doing here after so many days?
Though her farewell was somewhat discourteous, Wei Lin knew Tai Qing would likely eat all the dishes if she was late, so she steeled herself to leave. Xi Zhaoting, looking somewhat displeased, said, “What’s the rush? I have something to ask you. Wait a moment, I’ll just sit briefly.”
His brief sit lasted the time of a teacup. After leaving the room, Xi Zhaoting walked leisurely, only asking about Lian Yi’s condition. When they reached the alley, where both the prince’s and Wei residence’s carriages waited, he casually asked, “Are you in such a hurry to return?”
“Not really, I’m meeting Tai Qing at Tianxiang Lou for a meal,” Wei Lin replied.
“Oh? Tai Qing? The little nun from Feng Shou Mountain? Who else?” Xi Zhaoting asked.
“My brother,” Wei Lin answered.
