Qin Hongmian let out a faint sigh. She was destined for such misery, and she could blame no one else. Her only hope now was that Wanqing would never end up like her in this lifetime.
Seeing her dejected expression, Li Qinglu did not wish to disturb her further, lest saying too much provoke her into changing her mind. "I'll go make the arrangements. Someone will come to take the Princess Consort over shortly."
Qin Hongmian stood by the window, gazing at the moon on the horizon without a word. She was clearly in such a foul mood that she could not even be bothered with superficial courtesies.
Li Qinglu did not mind and simply withdrew, returning to Helian Tieshu's chambers. By then, Song Qingshu and the others had more or less finished handling their respective matters.
"It's getting late. I had the imperial kitchen prepare some food and wine to calm Sister Wanqing's nerves." Li Qinglu smiled warmly, as though she and Mu Wanqing had become the closest of sisters.
Mu Wanqing hesitated. "We're deep in enemy territory right now. We'd better not drink."
Li Qinglu's beautiful eyes widened. "How could that do? You and Sister Nan Xian have been on edge all this time, and today you went through such an ordeal. If you don't drink a little to settle yourselves, what if you harm your health and fall ill? Wouldn't that be even more troublesome? Besides, with Brother Song here, what could possibly go wrong?"
Mu Wanqing thought that made sense. Especially when she recalled how Nian Liandan had captured her—if Brother Song had not arrived in time... Even now, the thought still filled her with lingering fear.
Song Qingshu pulled Li Qinglu aside. "What are you up to? Why do I keep feeling that you've been