Chapter 49: The First Move

The quiet of the Bai estate felt fragile, as if the air itself held its breath in anticipation of the next storm. Bai Yue stood at her writing desk, her fingers tracing the edge of the mysterious letter from the capital. The words lingered in her mind like a haunting melody—The Imperial Court watches with interest.

She had no illusions; this was no mere observation. It was a warning, a challenge, and perhaps even an invitation into a larger game she wasn't yet prepared for. But readiness had never been a luxury afforded to her—only survival.

A knock at the door pulled her from her thoughts. She turned to find Weishan leaning against the doorway, arms crossed, his dark eyes scanning the room with their usual mix of amusement and caution. "Still brooding over that letter?"

Bai Yue set the parchment aside and straightened. "I prefer to call it strategizing."

Weishan smirked. "Then let me guess your strategy—you want to reply."

Bai Yue met his gaze, the flicker of a smile on her lips. "I do."

He stepped closer, lowering his voice. "It's risky. Whoever sent that knows more about you than they should."

"I know," Bai Yue said, exhaling slowly. "But staying silent is even riskier."

Weishan studied her for a moment before nodding. "Fine. But at least let me take precautions."

Bai Yue smiled softly. "You always do."

That evening, Bai Yue sat in the moonlit garden, a blank scroll before her. Each stroke of ink she made was careful, measured, and layered with meaning. She chose her words wisely.

"To those who watch, know that I see you as well. If you seek alliances, speak plainly. If you seek enmity, be prepared."

She folded the letter, pressing her seal into the warm wax. Weishan appeared beside her without a sound, taking the letter from her hand. "I'll make sure it reaches the right hands."

Bai Yue nodded, staring at the reflection of the moon in the water. "Do you ever wonder what's waiting for us in the capital?"

Weishan's smirk softened into something more thoughtful. "Trouble. But we're getting good at handling that, aren't we?"

Bai Yue chuckled, but her expression remained serious. "We need to be more than good, Weishan. We need to be untouchable."

His gaze lingered on her for a moment. "Then let's make sure we are."

The next morning, the estate was abuzz with new rumors. The second mistress's downfall had left a vacuum of power, and everyone seemed eager to fill it. Bai Yue moved through the halls, feeling the weight of every curious glance and whispered speculation.

Ah-Liang intercepted her near the courtyard, his face pale. "Miss Bai Yue, there's… someone asking for you at the gate."

Bai Yue arched a brow. "Who?"

Ah-Liang hesitated. "A messenger from the capital."

Bai Yue's breath hitched, but she kept her face composed. "Bring them to the receiving hall."

Weishan appeared at her side as if summoned by the shift in the air. "Well, that was fast."

Bai Yue glanced at him. "Too fast."

In the receiving hall, a man dressed in deep navy robes stood waiting. His posture was rigid, and his face was partially hidden beneath a conical hat embroidered with the imperial sigil.

Bai Yue stepped forward gracefully, bowing lightly. "You've come from the capital."

The man nodded, his voice cool and formal. "A reply to your letter, Lady Bai Yue."

Bai Yue accepted the scroll he handed her, feeling Weishan's sharp gaze boring into the stranger. "Thank you. Will you wait for my response?"

The messenger shook his head. "No, my lady. My orders were only to deliver."

Bai Yue nodded, and with a bow, the man departed swiftly, leaving her holding the sealed parchment.

She turned to Weishan, who raised an eyebrow. "Shall we open it?"

Without a word, Bai Yue broke the seal, her eyes scanning the message with practiced ease. The words were short but potent.

"Those who see do not always reveal their eyes. Choose your allies carefully. A storm is coming."

Bai Yue swallowed. "They're warning me."

Weishan frowned. "Or threatening you."

Bai Yue exhaled. "Either way, we need to prepare."

Weishan leaned in slightly. "What's your next move?"

Bai Yue's eyes hardened as she folded the letter. "We solidify our position here. Bai Rong is still a threat, and the court is watching. If we don't control the narrative, someone else will."

Weishan grinned. "I love it when you get ruthless."

Bai Yue shook her head, but a small smile tugged at her lips. "Then let's give them something to watch."

As the shadows lengthened over the estate, Bai Yue knew the power struggles were far from over. The storm on the horizon was drawing closer, and this time, she intended to be standing when it passed.