The gathering ended in a delicate atmosphere. While Xin Jiuwei's performance impressed some, it also thoroughly offended the proud and arrogant Shen Zhiwei. On the carriage ride home, Lin Jingshu reminded her, "Sister Jiuwei, although you handled things well today, Shen Zhiwei is petty and vindictive. Her father, Shen Wei, has considerable influence in the Qingliu circle, and she herself, bearing the title of 'First Talented Woman,' has gathered many followers. You must be more careful around her at future banquets."

Xin Jiuwei nodded, "Thank you for the reminder, Sister Jingshu. I'll remember it." She didn't regret her actions today. Shen Zhiwei's刁难 (diāonán, making things difficult) was obvious; simply giving in would only embolden her. She had to demonstrate her value and assertiveness to gain a foothold in the capital.

Back at the Prince's residence, Xin Jiuwei recounted the events of the day's gathering to Xiao Xun, especially Shen Zhiwei's targeting and her own response.

After listening, Xiao Xun put down the book in his hand, his deep gaze falling on Xin Jiuwei's face with a hint of barely perceptible approval.

“Shen Zhiwei?” He spoke in a flat tone, as if he were talking about an insignificant name. “Shen Wei’s daughter, she’s all talk and no action. Her calligraphy is too crafted and lacks character.”

He walked up to Xin Jiuwei, took her hand, and gently stroked her fingertips, which were slightly calloused from holding a pen. "Your handwriting," he said, looking at her with undisguised admiration in his eyes, "is very good. It has my shadow, but also your own strength. There's no need to pay attention to the clamor of those clowns."

He leaned down and gently pressed his warm lips to her forehead, his words carrying both reassurance and absolute protection: "Just be yourself. I'll shield you from the storms of this capital. The Shen family... can't cause any trouble."

Xin Jiuwei leaned against his strong chest, feeling his steady heartbeat and the reassuring strength within him. Shen Zhiwei's hostility and the future turmoil seemed less frightening. She knew this was just the beginning; the undercurrents in the capital wouldn't stop. But she also knew that whatever lay ahead, she was no longer alone.

With a solid backing, she also gained the courage to fight for herself and the Xin family. Shen Zhiwei wanted to use "refinement" and "birth" to suppress her? Then she would respond with "strength" and "true heart"! This war between women, a war without gunpowder, had only just begun.