Military orders are strictly enforced, and any carelessness can lead to a beating with military rods. Therefore, Xiao Muqian always carries this medicine for self-preservation.
His concern for Bai Siruo did not diminish in the slightest. If Madam Shen were to witness this scene, she would likely be so enraged that she would spit blood. Xiao Muqian was truly a stubborn man.
However, Princess Wenyi felt a pang of guilt towards her brother and sister-in-law. She made a gesture as if to kneel and said, "Brother, sister-in-law, this is all my fault. I did not restrain Siruo properly, which led her down this wrong path. But she was not eloping; she was being held captive."
"Good sister, Siruo is someone we watched grow up. How could we not know her intentions? Your words are an insult to us. Rest assured, we have come today to discuss this matter with you and the elders of the Bai family. No matter how unpleasant the rumors outside may be, this marriage between my Kang Wang residence and the Bai family is set!"
The Crown Princess Consort's words were like a calming pill, finally easing the worry in Princess Wenyi's heart.
Although everyone knew the truth, it was understandable that the Kang Wang residence might cancel the engagement out of consideration for Xiao Muqian's reputation. However, if Bai Siruo's reputation was ruined, it would be difficult for her to find another husband in this lifetime.
"However, Siruo is a daughter after all. With her reputation like this in Dongdu City, it will be difficult for her to stay. Our intention is that after Qian'er returns from his campaign, they will get married, and then Siruo will accompany Muqian to Liangzhou. It is far from Dongdu City, and no one will gossip behind her back. What do you think, Wenyi?"
The Crown Princess Consort genuinely considered Bai Siruo's well-being. After this incident, she feared that Bai Siruo would find it difficult to integrate into the circles of these ladies and madams. Rather than endure their snide remarks here, it would be better to leave. In three to five years, these matters would naturally fade.
Princess Wenyi's expression was solemn as she seriously considered the Crown Princess Consort's suggestion. However, Bai Silang, who entered later, spoke loudly, "Thank you for your kindness, sister-in-law. Siruo will not go anywhere; she will stay in Dongdu City. My Bai family's daughter has made a mistake and has been punished. But if such baseless accusations are leveled against her, her leaving will only make the rumors worse."
The Crown Princess Consort understood Bai Silang's meaning, but a daughter was not like a man. How could she cope with hostility from all sides?
"Brother-in-law, I know you are angry now, and I know your Bai family's integrity. But Siruo is a woman of the inner chambers, dealing with gossiping ladies and madams. Normally, any family that has a bit of excitement is eager to mock them to death. Let alone the magnitude of Siruo's incident. I fear she will not be able to bear it!"
"She must bear it, even if she has to. As long as she acts upright, she need not fear what others say. Moreover, my elder brother and I have already reported this matter to His Majesty early this morning. I believe it will not be long before His Majesty grants justice to my Bai family and clears Siruo's name!"
Seeing Bai Silang speak so confidently, the Crown Princess Consort and her husband could not persuade them further. Xiao Muqian, who had been silent for a long time, finally spoke, "Aunt, Uncle, may I see Siruo?"
Bai Silang looked at Princess Wenyi, who seemed unwilling to acknowledge him. He understood that she was still angry.
Thinking of the young couple experiencing such turmoil before their marriage, and his departure from Dongdu City tomorrow, he felt a pang of sympathy. He said, "Go ahead. However, she is injured, so don't let her sleep for too long."
Xiao Muqian's eyes lit up. After bowing to the elders, he left.
When his injury was mentioned, Princess Wenyi looked at Bai Silang resentfully. He felt no guilt but was somewhat uncomfortable being stared at by his wife. He then said to the Crown Prince, "Elder brother, please join me in the front hall for some tea. I just received some Jingming tea a few days ago, and its flavor is just right."
The Crown Prince, thinking that his wife and sister-in-law might have some private matters to discuss, did not delay and followed him.
When only Princess Wenyi and the Crown Princess Consort were left in the room, Princess Wenyi began to weep bitterly.
"I truly don't know who I have offended to have my daughter treated this way. How can she ever hold her head up in the future? I don't even need to inquire about the rumors outside to know they are not good. My Siruo, why is she so unfortunate!"
Now she understood the pain Madam Shen felt when Bai Sihan was sent back by people from the Princess's residence.
The Crown Princess Consort comforted her, "Look at Miss Xu. She acted as if nothing happened after her engagement was broken off and even went to Wenjin Academy to teach. When Siruo's injuries heal and the weather warms up, you can take her out for outings and flower viewing. When her mood improves, she will naturally become more open-minded."
Princess Wenyi's eyes were tearful, but Bai Siruo, the center of the public's attention, was calm.
She could only lie on her bed. When Xiao Muqian arrived, she was only wearing her inner garment, so they could only speak through a screen.
After the ordeal of last night, being chilled and beaten, she felt weak.
Facing the tall figure outside the screen, she said, "My reputation is ruined now. If you want to break off the engagement, you can do so. I will not cling to you shamelessly."
"What nonsense are you talking about? I, Xiao Muqian, am here today to tell you that I will marry no one but you in this lifetime!"
"But I..."
"Siruo, you should live for yourself. Since you cannot control others' tongues, then control your own heart. When I return, we will get married. If you wish to stay in Dongdu City, I will petition His Majesty to be transferred back. If you want to go to Liangzhou, I will take you. Although it is windier and more barren there, it is no less vibrant than Dongdu City. In fact, it is much freer than here."
Xiao Muqian could not stay by her side, but he was worried that she would be disheartened by this. Therefore, before leaving, he had to come and declare his feelings to her.
He was never one to care about others' opinions or weigh pros and cons. The burden of the Kang Wang residence was borne by his elder brother, so he could live more easily. Thus, he hoped his future wife would be the same. However, if she were to be troubled and distressed by this incident, it would be rather unworthy.
Hearing his words, Bai Siruo felt even more regret for her impulsive actions.
Now, she had to bear the bitterness inwardly.
"But if you are with me, you will also be ridiculed by others. It's fine for a day or two, but what about a year or two?"
There was an ancient saying about love fading with beauty. For her, it might turn into accumulated conflicts over time.
Moreover, living with someone while constantly burdened by guilt was a life less free than becoming a nun.
Hearing the lack of confidence in her tone, Xiao Muqian disregarded the convention of separation between men and women. Since she would be his wife in the end, he walked directly from behind the screen. Bai Siruo was stunned by his action.
He looked at Bai Siruo with firm eyes and said solemnly and seriously, "If you are worried about this, then I can swear here that if I fail you in this life, may I die a terrible death!"