"So, you're saying the pillows you gave us were also made by you, Li'er?" Yang Yufu asked, her eyes widening.
As Lixia nodded with a modest smile, she was suddenly enveloped in a massive "bear hug" by Yufu. Lixia laughed awkwardly and shot an apologetic look at Princess Mutong. "I actually didn't know how to draw at first. I spent a long time practicing those sketches."
"You're far too humble! This is much more creative than anything the 'First Talent' of the Capital has done," Yufu declared.
Mutong, meanwhile, was fidgeting with her handkerchief. "Li'er's clothes are beautiful, but they look even better because she's the one wearing them," she whispered.
Seeing the high-ranking Princess so consumed by self-doubt because of her figure, Lixia took her hand. "Mutong, you are very beautiful too."
Mutong lowered her head. "Don't tease me, Li'er."
"I'm serious. Especially your eyes—they are so expressive. And your skin is incredibly fair."
"Li'er is right!" Yufu chimed in. "I've told her that before, but she never believes me. Look at the pillow Li'er gave you; it's so much cuter than Miss Beiye. Besides, my mother says being a bit plump is a sign of good fortune and health!"
"I can't compare to her," Mutong said, her voice filled with shame. "I want to lose weight, I really do... but I just can't control my appetite."
"Losing weight doesn't have to mean starving yourself," Lixia said firmly, unwilling to let such a sweet girl wither away. "Come find me another day. I will help you."
"You have a way?" Yufu and Mutong asked in unison, their eyes sparkling with hope.
"I know a specific Acupuncture Weight Loss Method. Combined with some herbal tonics I'll formulate, as long as you persist, you'll see a transformation. I guarantee a slim figure within six months."
"That would be wonderful!"
"Li'er, thank you!" Mutong squeezed Lixia's hand, her face lit with genuine joy.
"We're friends, aren't we? Good sisters help each other out," Lixia smiled.
The West City Plum Forest
As the carriage rumbled toward their destination, the three girls talked incessantly. Yufu was the lively one, Mutong the quiet observer, and Lixia the grounded "big sister" figure who guided the conversation.
"Where exactly are we going?" Lixia asked.
"The Plum Forest in the West City," Yufu explained. "Every year, the noble ladies and scholars gather there. The government built pavilions along the lake for people to enjoy. It's a place for the elite; you rarely see commoners there."
When they arrived, the forest was already bustling with activity. Scholars were painting and playing chess, while young nobles were busy composing poetry. It was the quintessential high-society social scene.
The forest sat adjacent to the Taihu Pond. Through the swaying plum branches, one could see the blossoms in full bloom, their fragrance filling the air. It was a breathtaking, natural landscape.
"Follow me! I know a great spot," Mutong said, leading them deeper into the forest, past the crowded pavilions.
A Secret Sanctuary
They reached a secluded area near a small, bubbling spring. The only sounds were the chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves. Lixia placed A'Mu on the ground. "Don't wander too far, little thief. If I can't find you, you'll have to find your own way home!"
"Squeak!" A'Mu scurried off into the undergrowth.
"It's amazing that your pet understands you," Mutong remarked with envy.
The girls spent the morning exploring. Mutong and Yufu would occasionally recite verses of poetry inspired by the scenery, which left Lixia in awe. While she was a master of medicine, classical poetry was definitely not her forte. She'd rather study a root than rhyme a couplet.
Lixia noticed the scattered petals on the ground and began collecting them in a basket.
"Are you making sachets, Li'er?" Yufu asked.
"No," Xiqiu answered proudly for her mistress. "Miss is collecting them to make Fragrant Balms for the face. They make the skin incredibly smooth."
"Truly?" The girls were instantly intrigued.
"Yes. When I return, I'll make a batch for both of you," Lixia promised.
The Picnic Begins
As the sun reached its zenith, Lixia had Hongshang and the guards bring over the supplies. Near the fresh spring water and away from the crowds, it was the perfect spot for an outdoor feast.
"Li'er, you thought of everything! I only brought some pastries and fruit," Mutong said, looking at the array of ingredients Lixia had prepared.
"An outing is only half the fun without good food," Lixia laughed. "And it's even more fun if we cook it ourselves!"
"We've never cooked before," Yufu admitted, lounging on the grass. "You'll have to teach us!"
"No problem," Lixia smiled, rolling up her sleeves. "Let's get to work!"