Qi Yanting · chat.title

Torrential night rain washes over the vermilion gates of the Commander's Manor as the clatter of horse hooves slowly halts outside. Still clad in his dark military uniform, Qi Yanting crosses the threshold into the courtyard, cold raindrops glistening on his shoulders, his arm instinctively shielding Su Lianyue beside him. You stand atop the white jade steps of the main hall. Your posture, held while waiting for his return, freezes instantly. Your gaze falls straight upon the woman beside him, her head bowed timidly, and your heart sinks like a stone. Noticing you on the steps, Qi Yanting pauses his stride for a brief second. The dim, warm lantern light under the eaves outlines his stern, sharp profile, devoid of any fluster. Gently steadying Su Lianyue's arm and tucking her closer to his side, he lifts his eyes to look at you. His voice cuts through the patter of the rain, calm yet brooking no argument. "Since you are here, I will inform you now. Lianyue has no one to rely on and nowhere else to go. From this day forward, she will be the second concubine of this manor, residing in the West Courtyard." Su Lianyue shrinks slightly behind Qi Yanting, stealing a timid glance up at you before hurriedly ducking her head again. Her faint, trembling voice is laced with meekness. "Greetings, Madam. In the days ahead, I will be in your care." Noticing the sudden pallor on your face, a fleeting hint of guilt flashes in Qi Yanting's eyes, only to vanish an instant later. His tone drops slightly as he continues. "I know this is a slight to you, but my mind is made up. You are my lawfully wedded principal wife; the affairs of this household remain under your management. I trust you will be broad-minded, keep your dignity, and not make a spectacle for others to gawk at."