I'm not here for looks; I only like attractive people.
For some reason, upon hearing this, Qi Yihan suddenly recalled how Li Man'er had looked at him earlier, with a focused gaze that seemed to hold a hint of admiration.
"Your Highness?"
Qi Yihan's thoughts returned. "Miss Li's ideas are truly unique. I wonder if the Marquis would approve of such notions?"
This man was trouble. He was handsome, possessed an excellent physique, and had a low, slightly languid voice. When he spoke to you, it was as if he were telling a story, his voice weaving a captivating narrative. Yes, a pleasant voice was a definite plus for a man.
"My marriage is something he likely has no control over. My engagement to the young Duke was bestowed by the Empress Dowager. My stepmother grew envious and has caused me no end of trouble over this matter for years. Li Shu pays no attention to the affairs of the inner chambers. Even if he knew, he wouldn't blame others and would instead shift all the fault onto me." Li Man'er shook her head slightly. "The head of the household is so muddled; I don't know how he leads his troops."
"A woman must obey her father at home and her husband after marriage," Qi Yihan said curiously. "Even if Miss Li is uneducated, she should know these sayings."
"This again." Li Man'er's expression was tinged with sadness. "Ultimately, this world belongs to men, and men make the rules. To please men, women concoct all sorts of ridiculous theories, like 'obey your father at home and your husband after marriage.' Are fathers always right? Are husbands always more reasonable than their wives?"
Perhaps this Miss Li, having been suppressed in her household for so long, had developed some peculiar notions. Her very words, if spoken aloud, were enough to ignite a storm of criticism. No wonder the rumors outside painted her in such a bad light; being too unconventional was not always a good thing.
"Then, if it were up to you, what kind of marriage would you seek?"
Li Man'er thought, *How strange. Is this Ninth Prince also fond of gossip, like Lü Yi?*
"If it were up to me, this humble woman would simply not marry."
"Why?"
Li Man'er sighed with resignation. "Marriage is a woman's second rebirth. We have no choice in our first birth into what kind of family we are born; for most women, they also have no choice in their second, marriage. Upon entering a husband's home, one must uphold wifely virtues and serve her in-laws. She must also bear children to continue the lineage. Childbirth is like stepping into the gates of hell. If it's a son, it's fine, but if it's a daughter, she'll be criticized for not being fruitful enough. Men can have multiple wives and concubines, but women must remain confined to their chambers. Why is that?"
Why?
Qi Yihan had never considered this question. Yes, why indeed! Perhaps it was centuries of ingrained habit and tradition.
"The world has already been defined as it is. Your actions are futile. It's best to just think about it."
"If thinking could make things happen, that would be wonderful." Her first wish would be to travel back in time.
As they suddenly engaged in such idle chatter, the atmosphere between them eased considerably. They no longer seemed like schemers with hidden agendas, but rather like two friends who shared common interests.
"Regarding your father's poisoning, what are Miss Li's thoughts?"
Li Man'er was not so foolish as to say whatever came to mind. She scoffed, "Your Highness has likely asked the wrong person. This humble woman has always been untalented and ignorant, with no understanding of court affairs. If the officials from the Grand Court and the Ministry of Justice cannot uncover the truth, how would I possibly know?"
Qi Yihan suspected she knew something, but whether she admitted it or not was of little consequence.
"After the engagement is broken, how will Miss Li conduct herself?"
"Does Your Highness still take an interest in this matter?"
Qi Yihan felt his behavior today was somewhat unusual, but since he had already asked, there was no need to evade it.
"I merely find your disposition to be rather unrestrained and do not wish for any uncontrollable situations to arise."
Li Man'er let out a meaningful "Oh." "Your Highness need not worry. Even if the engagement is broken, I will live very well. You mustn't forget that my maternal family is quite wealthy. And once my shops are reclaimed, I can also do business. As long as I have money, why should I fear not living well?"
The woman before him had bright, shining eyes. She was neither demure and reserved like a noble lady, feigning modesty, nor was she the arrogant and empty-headed shrew depicted in external rumors. On the contrary, she was quite different, her peculiar thoughts alone setting her apart.
"Regarding the shops, perhaps I can assist you."
Li Man'er shook her head. "It is better to rely on oneself than to seek help from others. This matter does not require Your Highness's concern. I have my own ways of reclaiming those shops."
"Do tell."
"Your Highness must know that public opinion is a powerful force. With a little effort on my part, I can place her under intense scrutiny. Given Madam Guo's humble origins, do you think she could withstand the public's accusations and ridicule?"
Qi Yihan had never seen someone articulate schemes and stratagems so openly. The corners of his lips curved upwards involuntarily.
Li Man'er pretended not to notice, though inwardly she had already rated the Ninth Prince's smile. A 9.9; she deducted 0.1 to prevent him from becoming conceited.
"Your Highness, the hour is late. This humble woman shall take her leave. As for Your Highness's蛊毒, you may seek me out at any time. However, I hope the matter of the broken engagement can be expedited."
Qi Yihan remained silent, merely nodding.
Li Man'er rose. "This humble woman bids farewell."
Upon exiting the water pavilion, Li Man'er called for her two maids and scurried towards the Lakeside Pavilion with small, quick steps.
She had drunk too much water...
Lü Yi and Zi Yan wanted to laugh but dared not. They even grumbled about the Princess's banquet, which had turned into a lengthy tea session. Little did they know, the banquet was a ruse, and the Ninth Prince was using it to probe Li Man'er's strengths and weaknesses. Although she had been momentarily captivated by his beauty, she had not lost this battle.
That evening, the dishes at the Lakeside Pavilion were exceptionally lavish.
Princess Wuyou still did not show herself, but Aunt Min personally arrived, bringing a large quantity of gifts as thanks. Li Man'er initially intended to refuse, but Aunt Min's words were too beautifully phrased, and refusing would make her seem petty.
"The Princess found herself drawn to you, Miss, and feels her leg ailment has improved considerably with your treatment. She will undoubtedly need your assistance again in the future. If you do not accept these gifts, how will the Princess seek your medical help later on?"
Was she seeking medical help? Or was she acting on behalf of her mistress?
"Then I shall accept your generous offer without further ado."
"Where do you get that idea, Miss? This is precisely what you deserve," Aunt Min said with a smile. "In that case, this old servant will not disturb your rest. If you wish to stay, please remain at the manor for a couple more days. If you insist on returning, we can discuss it after you meet the Princess tomorrow."
Li Man'er knew this was just politeness. If she took it seriously, it would be rather presumptuous of her.