The Hua residence's ancestral hall was dimly lit, the heavy scent of sandalwood clinging to the carved beams. Once a month, the elders of the Hua clan gathered to discuss family matters: properties, alliances, and reputation.
Second Aunt sat proudly among them, her phoenix-embroidered robes shimmering, her chin lifted. With Hua Mei by her side, she radiated the air of a victorious matron, as though she alone upheld the Hua name.
In Hua Lian's last life, she remembered this very council. Second Aunt had once used it to cut her down—mocking her clumsiness, calling her "unfit to represent the Hua family." The words had spread far beyond these walls, turning every social gathering into ridicule.
This time, Hua Lian's lips curved into the faintest smile.
When discussion turned to the spring banquet hosted by the governor's wife, Second Aunt rose smoothly.
"Since my Mei'er is accomplished in poetry and music, she shall naturally represent our Hua family at the banquet. It is only proper."
Nods and murmurs of agreement followed. After all, Hua Mei's reputation had always been spotless.
But Hua Lian lowered her eyes, voice soft but clear.
"Forgive me for speaking, Elders. I fear cousin's… reputation has been troubled of late."
The hall stilled.
Second Aunt's gaze sharpened. "What nonsense are you spouting, girl?"
Hua Lian stood gracefully, bowing toward the elders.
"At the last gathering, cousin Mei was accused of borrowing another's verses. Though I never dared believe it, the whispers among the guests were… unkind. If she attends the governor's banquet now, should such talk arise again, will it not shame the entire Hua family?"
A ripple of unease passed through the elders. Some frowned..
Second Aunt's hands tightened around her sleeve. "Baseless slander! Mei'er's talent is genuine—"
But before she could continue, Shen Wei stepped forward from the servants' line, bowing respectfully.
"This servant apologizes for daring to speak, but… it is true. I myself was present when Master Yun's verses were recited. Many others can attest."
Gasps.
Second Aunt's face blanched.
"You—how dare a mere servant—!"
But the elders' expressions had already shifted, from admiration to suspicion. One of the older uncles cleared his throat.
"Second Madam, it seems your daughter's reputation is… unsettled. It would be wiser not to risk the Hua family's face at such an important banquet."
Another elder added coldly, "Perhaps Hua Lian should attend instead. She is quiet, proper, and untainted by scandal."
Second Aunt trembled with fury. Hua Mei's face burned crimson, her nails digging into her palms.
When the council dismissed, Second Aunt swept past Hua Lian, her smile brittle as glass.
"You dare humiliate us in front of the elders? Do you think this tiny victory will protect you?"
Hua Lian met her gaze evenly, her tone calm.
"I did nothing, Aunt. I merely spoke the truth. If cousin's reputation cannot withstand the light, perhaps it should not have been built on shadows."
Second Aunt's breath hitched. For the first time, she saw not a timid child, but a blade concealed in silk.
And Hua Lian thought quietly, In my past life, you trampled me with your words. This time, I will strip away your power, piece by piece.