Wen Chenghuan took the painting and unrolled it in front of Zijuan. It depicted bees gathering nectar from flowers, and his son's name stood out plainly in the inscription. His heart gave a startled jolt.
Zijuan said, "The princess said that although the painting is quite good, the person who sent it seems to have meant something by it. She will soon be marrying far away in Great Yong and does not wish for complications to arise. If this painting fell into the hands of someone with ulterior motives, it might reflect badly on both her and the Wen family."
Wen Chenghuan looked embarrassed. Of course he understood what Zijuan was implying. Forcing out a faint smile, he said, "Miss Zijuan, please convey my reply to the princess. Tell her that I will handle this matter properly."
Zijuan said, "When Lady Wen brought this painting over, Eunuch Hu from Bright Moon Palace happened to come along as well. The princess said that Grand Tutor Wen need not worry. She will remind Eunuch Hu to act as though he never saw any of it."
Only then did Wen Chenghuan understand Princess Anping's true purpose in sending her maid with the painting. She meant to save Hu Xiaotian's life this way, while also laying her cards on the table in a roundabout fashion. If he refused to let the matter of Hu Xiaotian drop, she might make the gift of the painting public. Wen Chenghuan sighed inwardly. Hu Xiaotian, oh, Hu Xiaotian, just what abilities do you possess to draw so many people's attention?
Wen Chenghuan smiled. "Miss Zijuan, please report back to the princess for me. I appreciate her kindness."
Zijuan smiled. "Since Grand Tutor Wen understands everything, I shall take my leave." She bowed to Wen Chenghuan and departed.
Wen