Eight Treasures Trousseau.pdf

Eight Treasures Trousseau 1. Chapter 1 2. Chapter 2 3. Chapter 3 4. Chapter 4 5. Chapter 5 6. Chapter 6 7. Chapter 7 8. Chapter 8 9. Chapter 9 10. Chapter 10 11. Chapter 11 12. Chapter 12 13. Chapter 13 14. Chapter 14 15. Chapter 15 16. Chapter 16 17. Chapter 17 18. Chapter 18 19. Chapter 19 20. Chapter 20 21. Chapter 21 22. Chapter 22 23. Chapter 23 24. Chapter 24 25. Chapter 25 26. Chapter 26 27. Chapter 27 28. Chapter 28 29. Chapter 29 30. Chapter 30 31. Chapter 31 32. Chapter 32 33. Chapter 33 34. Chapter 34

35. Chapter 35 36. Chapter 36 37. Chapter 37 38. Chapter 38 39. Chapter 39 40. Chapter 40 41. Chapter 41 42. Chapter 42 43. Chapter 43 44. Chapter 44 45. Chapter 45 46. Chapter 46 47. Chapter 47 48. Chapter 48 49. Chapter 49 50. Chapter 50 51. Chapter 51 52. Chapter 52 53. Chapter 53 54. Chapter 54 55. Chapter 55 56. Chapter 56 57. Chapter 57 58. Chapter 58 59. Chapter 59 60. Chapter 60 61. Chapter 61 62. Chapter 62 63. Chapter 63 64. Chapter 64 65. Chapter 65 66. Chapter 66 67. Chapter 67 68. Chapter 68 69. Chapter 69 70. Chapter 70 71. Chapter 71

72. Chapter 72 73. Chapter 73 74. Chapter 74 75. Chapter 75 76. Chapter 76 77. Chapter 77 78. Chapter 78 79. Chapter 79 80. Chapter 80 81. Chapter 81 82. Chapter 82 83. Chapter 83 84. Chapter 84 85. Chapter 85 86. Chapter 86 87. Chapter 87 88. Chapter 88 89. Chapter 89 90. Chapter 90 91. Chapter 91 92. Chapter 92 93. Chapter 93 94. Chapter 94 95. Chapter 95 96. Chapter 96 97. Chapter 97 98. Chapter 98 99. Chapter 99 100. Chapter 100 101. Chapter 101 102. Chapter 102 103. Chapter 103 104. Chapter 104 105. Chapter 105 106. Chapter 106 107. Chapter 107 108. Chapter 108 (END)

Title: Eight Treasures Trousseau

Author: Yue Xia Die Ying

Synopsis.

Everyone in the City of Jing thinks that bestowment of marriage between Xian Junwangand the di daughter of the Yi’an Marquis House is to insert a fresh lower into manure.

Xian Junwang was that fresh lower and the di daughter of Yi’an Marquis House was that manure that was not liked.

It is said that what is heard is false, seeing is believing. Who knows what the truth really is?

My book review: This is To Be A Virtuous Wife 2.0 in the simplest sense. If I read this irst, I might have liked this more because there is less of a need to think and ruminate to connect all the implications and hints. The author seems to have a better grasp between stating things out right and having everything hidden in hints and shadows. There is time-travel and a woman used to entertainment circles in a new life. At the same time, this is a darker story and touches on some different aspects that TBVW never examined because of the character setup. It is

bloodier and TBVW in comparison seems to have been “washed/edited.”

Editor Review:

This story is about a modern actress becoming the noble miss of the Marquis House. Because she is lazy and does not like to go outside, outsiders suspect she does not have beauty. Unexpectedly, an imperial decree marries her into the Xian Junwang Fu. XianJunwang is the handsome gentleman spoken of by the noble females of Jing City, and a nephew that the Emperor is wary of. The imperial decree causes these two lives to entangle together, but the lower is not a lower, the mist is not the mist, the truth is frequently hidden behind the splendour. [–cut off because of spoilers]

***Chapter 1 is below the chapter 1 footnotes

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Footnotes: (see de initions for To Be A Virtuous Wife if anything is missing.)

夫⼈: Lady, madam, miss. This appellation is used for both married women and titled women.

⽒: clan/maiden name. A married woman is known by her maiden name of __ with ashi(⽒) after it to show she is married. 郡王: Literally County-King. In this story, junwang is a rank below

qinwang. These are the highest ranks a male of the imperial family can hold other than the throne.

太太:married woman, madam. In the novel, this is used to signal that either the person is very old or that she is untitled.

嫡: child born of the wife, not of a concubine. 王妃: the wife of a wang. Equivalent to the position of princess consort in Western culture.

⼤嫂: older brother’s wife, usually of the eldest brother. 弟妹: younger brother’s wife Chapter One The House of Hua has a Daughter

The winter had left and the spring had arrived. The irst-ranked servant girls of Yi’an Marquis Fu took off their thick cotton jackets and put own their tender green girdled dresses. This caused the entire marquis fu to look alive and illed with the presence of spring.

Inside the green silk curtains, the cotton blanket was raised. The person inside seemed to have gone through a long con lict between a pale white arm came out of the blanket. The servant girls waiting outside the silk canopy were joyful and assumed that the person on the bed was going to come out of bed. Then they saw the arm pat around the border of the bed and then retreat back.

“Miss, it is three quarters after seven.” Bai Xia con irmed that the person on the bed did not have any intentions of coming up and bowed slightly, her voice holding mirth. “Furenhas ordered that you need to rise early today. She said that the dressmakers of the Fragrant Spiral Pavilion is going to measure you for spring attire.”

“Didn’t the people of the cloth-making room in the fu make a few sets for me already a fortnight ago?” The person on the bed sat up with the blanket wrapped around her, her hair spilling down following her actions. Even though it had not been combed, it was still as smooth as silk.

Hong Ying who stood next to Bai Xia raised her silk curtain for her and explained with a smile, “Furen has said that the cloth of Fragrant Spiral Pavilion is not the best, but their handiwork is exquisite so it is not important if some clothing is made.”

Hua Xi Wan rose up from the bed and allowed the servant girls to serve her in washing her face and rinsing her mouth. She sat in front of the mirror and covered her mouth in a yawn. She put her chin in her right hand and said lazily, “They say spring sleep is to the morning, do not let down sleep. Bai Xia, you are disturbing my dreams.”

“Bai Xia is asking for forgiveness from Miss.” Bai Xia put down the wood comb in her hand and bent her knees to Hua Xi Wan. However the smile on her face did not disappear, “Please do not be angry.”

The four chief servant girls had followed her for a few years, and Hua Xi Wan knew that they were not people to act of their own accord. There probably was something going on this morning that Mother would have then wake her up early. Therefore, she curled her ingers to indicate for Bai Xia to stand before continuing to prop her chin on her hand and allowing the servant girls to serve her in dressing.

The servant girls knew that their miss was of a lazy personality that would say as little as necessary. After dressing her, they carried out several boxes of hairpins and jewelry for Hua Xi Wan to pick.

Hua Xi Wan reached out to point at a few before standing and letting the servant girls to change her clothing. She took over the brow liner from Hong Ying’s hands to draw her brows before saying lazily, “Let’s go.”

Coming out of the small yard, Hua Xi Wan took her servant girls along to the main yard. Entering the door, she saw her mother Lu shi lipping

through a long list. She seemed to ind there was not enough on the list and was ordering the people beside her to add more.

“Daughter bids good morning to Mother, did Mother have a good sleep last night?” Hua Xi Wan walked towards Lu shi with a smile. Before she could bend down, Lu shi’s most used servant girl caught her.

Seeing Hua Xi Wan come in, Lu shi put the list to one side. She walked next to Hua Xi Wan and reached out to caressed the center of her palm. After testing the temperature, her worries were satis ied. “Even though it is just the spring, females need to pay attention to not get cold. It would not be good if sickness takes root in the future.”

Supporting her mother to sit down, Hua Xi Wan smiled and said, “Mother, do not worry. I de initely will not make you worry.”

Lu shi sighed and then said hatefully, “If it isn’t the people from the Third Branch, you wouldn’t have had that great illness that year. Thinking about them, my heart feels suffocated.” Lu shi was descended from a martial family. While the last two generations had produced several literary of icials, but the misses of the clan was still bolder than average. That year, the heir of the Xi’an Marquis Fu had begged to marry her. He had kept his reputation of being afraid of his wife for more than two decades and never took a concubine.

Seeing Mother become angry, Hua Xi Wan carried a cup of tea in front of Lu shi. “Mother, do not lower yourself to their level, aren’t you lowering your own status?” Her father had two younger brothers and one

younger sister. The youngest brother and sister had been born from the second wife so their own family was closer to Second Uncle and their relationship with the other two families was just on the surface.

“That is true, I blush when I see them act like jumping clowns.” Lu shi picked up the tea that her daughter delivered. Half of her anger dissipated. She said with a snort, “They keep on passing on those rumors outside every day and think that this will show how capable their branch is. But the Heavens watch what people do and know what people should get or not.”

The smile on Hua Xi Wan’s face dimmed slightly and then she changed on a slightly bashful expression. “Mother, what are you saying?”

“Fine, we won’t speak of this.” Lu shi saw that her daughter had become embarrassed so she smiled and took the list she had just been looking at. “The imperial decree from the Emperor had come so suddenly. Fortunately, I started preparing for you a few years ago. Otherwise, this would slight and neglect my daughter.”

Sweeping a look across the list, Hua Xi Wan inally understood what her mother had been looking at. She stopped reading the list, turning and speaking, “Mother, didn’t you say that people are coming to measure me for clothing?” In the past, her mother had never had outsiders come to measure her. Why was she being allowed to see outside cloth-makers now?

“They are just outside cloth-makers, how can I let them get near you? I have already had the servants tell them your measurements. Later, I will take you to see the old taitai to give morning greetings.” As a mother, Lu shi could see that her daughter did not feel much happiness about the marriage decree from the Imperial One, but since the imperial decree has been sent down, nothing could be done no matter what was said.

Xian Junwang was of high status in the Imperial Clan and his appearance was also outstanding. He was the irst pick for a husband for many noble misses in Jing City. However, in Lu shi’s mind, this kind of person was the one least suited to be her daughter’s husband. Not speaking of how many unspeakable matters there were behind that person, Xian Junwang was a handsome man that easily attracted the attention of females. It would be worrisome for her daughter to marry this kind of man.

Today, she had just used the excuse to get her daughter to get up early so they could give morning greetings at Third Branch to the old taitai.

Their primary branch was not very close to the old taitai. It was not because Marquis Yi’an was not ilial but because this old taitai had been the second wife of the old marquis. The primary branch and the second branch had been born from the original wife. After the old marquis passed away, the three brothers had divided up the family. The primary branch and second branch only had a shallow relationship with the old taitai. If there was any mother-son feelings to be spoken of, even if outsiders believed it, they wouldn’t believe it.

In the year when Hua He Sheng and Lu shi had gotten married, this old taitai had done too many things that caused unhappiness. Lu shi was not a timid person. After causing the old taitai to lose face a few times, the old taitai stopped her actions. Lu shi was not a relentless person. These years, they maintained the appearances, but they really did not get close.

Hua Xi Wan knew a bit of the past of the previous generation. However, judging by her mother’s valiant personality, even when she married and left, she didn’t need to worry that the old taitai and the people from the Third Branch could bully her mother. Even more, she had two accomplished older brothers. No matter what, Yi’An Marquis Fu would not end up in a position without a successor.

The old taitai lived together with the Third Branch so every time they had to see the oldtaitai for morning greetings, Yi’an Marquis Fu had to prepare sedans and then walk along the street towards the west for two to three quarters before they reached the compound of the Third Branch.

Hearing the sounds of the merchants outside hawking their wares through the sedan, Hua Xi Wan raised the curtain slightly. She saw the sun had come out. The sunshine was slightly blinding so she put down the curtain and closed her eyes to rest. In her last life, she had been ilming day and night, and never gotten a major role until she worked herself to death. This life, she had become a noble miss. If she did not enjoy this, then she really wasted this life.

After the sedan from Yi’an Marquis Fu passed, the passerby started to discuss which family this was. That Eight Treasure crystal sedan was

really beautiful.

“How many females of the family in Jing City are able to use this kind of sedan?” a passerby pointed at the two ends of the east street and then raised his eyebrows. The people in discussion instantly had expressions of understanding that were slightly complex.

It was rumored the wife of Yi’an Marquis was very valiant but her reputation among the common people of Jing City was very good because this Marquis’s wife usually donated silver to the poor. Her paternal family, the Lu Family, was virtuous in their conduct so even though this furen’s valiant name spread, no one said anything bad about her.

“Such a pity … …” The one that spoke shook their head and did not say the rest. It was a pity that the daughter born from this furen was not as good as the one from the Third Branch. The Third Branch’s Graduate Hua was not as accomplished in the court as his two older brothers but he had a daughter that was both accomplished and beautiful who received innumerable praises. This marquis fu’s miss never left the compound to play and never attended the gatherings in Jing City. Even though the people in the marquis fusaid that their miss’s body was weak, no one had ever seen the marquis fu search for famed doctors.

So after some back and forth- everyone speculated that this di miss of the marquis fu’s appearance was too average. She was not willing to meet others because she was afraid of being laughed at but she was afraid people would suspect so she used the excuse of being frail.

Even though many people outside knew that this marquis fu’s miss did not have any beauty, her life was very good. She had been bestowed in marriage to Xian Junwang. This matter was the envy of many females in their chambers. Many people even felt pity for Xian Junwang. With Xian Junwang’s talents and appearance, his wang fei should be a virtuous wife with both talent and beauty. How could it be a female of no beauty that had a valiant mother?

But no matter what the outside said, Yi’an Marquis Fu never paid any attention to these rumors as though the person of interest was not their miss, and someone unconnected them. This attitude caused many people to stop their mockery and would just sigh for Yi’an Marquis Fu.

Just as Hua Xi Wan was going to fall asleep, she felt her sedan stop and then she heard Bai Xia’s voice inviting her to step off the sedan.

Hong Ying picked up the curtain and Hua Xi Wan gave her head to Bai Xia. She followed behind Lu shi to walk towards the main room. Before they entered the door, servant girls and older female servants circled around, opening the curtains, carrying in tea. Other people also came out to bow, and caused Hua Xi Wan to feel dizzy.

“Dasao, you have arrived. Come in, the old taitai has been waiting for you.” The third Hua Master’s furen, Yao shi, came out in large strides from the room. She irst bent down in a greeting to Lu shi before she warmly took Lu shi’s hand. She looked at Hua Xi Wan and said, “Third Miss, come in too.”

Lu shi imperceptibly took her hand out of Yao shi’s hand and said with a smile on her face, “It was trouble for Dimei to personally welcome us. Our daughter is fragile and has come late. Do not be offended.”

Yao shi smiled and said it was ine as she guided them into the room. However, there was indiscernible awkwardness in her smile. However, when Lu shi sat down, she still personally brought a cup of tea to Lu shi’s hand.

“Many thanks, Dimei,” Lu shi nodded politely and then said to the old taitai that was sitting at the front, “Old Taitai, has your body been well recently?”

“Good, everything is good,” The old taitai smiled and nodded. She then looked at Hua Xi Wan who was sitting silently by the side and said, “Third girl is even growing more and more beautiful to the point that this old woman sees her and does want her to marry.”

The old taitai’s feelings with Lu shi and Hua He Sheng were faint but she did not have any bias towards her granddaughter Hua Xi Wan. Hua Xi Wan was at least the granddaughter of her husband. While her attitude was not as warm as to Hua Chu Yu who was her own son’s daughter, but it was much warmer than her attitude towards Hua Yi Liu from the Second Branch.

The old taitai had never seen such a beautiful girl before and everyone liked beauty. She was old now and naturally did not feel any jealousy towards young and beautiful girls. What was left was admiration.

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I’ll make a table of contents page soon. Please use the tags in the meantime.

妹妹: younger sister Chapter Two Familial Love

When the matter of Hua Xi Wan’s marriage was mentioned, the thoughts of the females in the room were all different but they all had smiles hanging their faces. Yao shi did not feel good inside but she smiled prettier than anyone else. “Old Taitai, it is normal to not bear to part with Third Miss as she marries. However, marriage to Xian Junwang is our third miss’ good fortune. There are so many people in Jing City admiring our Hua Family.” These recent days, she had people go and listen to the outside. She knew that what the public was discussing was not pleasing to hear. Thinking about those discussions such as a fresh lower inserted in manure, Yao shi felt great. So what if she was beautiful, so what if she was a miss of the Marquis Fu. In the eyes of other people, she was just a female without any beauty that could not be seen in public and ruined the handsome XianJunwang.

The old taitai was not very happy when she heard this. In the past, it was due to her family’s lack of high status that she had been married to the old Marquis as his second wife. Everyone had said that she was fortunate to marry up, but only she knew what the reality was like. However, even if she did not feel good inside, Yao shi was her son’s wife so the old taitai did not let her lose face in public. She smiled faintly and

said, “In the future, a harmonious coupling between husband and wife is the greatest good fortune.”

Yao shi gave her agreement. She knew that what she had just said was not appropriate so she closed her mouth and did not speak any more.

As the subject of discussion, Hua Xi Wan had been holding almond milk tea and eating refreshments in complete silent. Even though in other people’s eyes, this was because she was not talkative and embarrassed, Lu shi knew that it was due to being lazy. Looking at the rate she was eating, it was possibly because she wanted to sleep in later and had not eaten breakfast.

She pretended to naturally push the pastries near her hand towards Hua Xi Wan. Lu shisaid to the old taitai, “Old Taitai, you are right. As an elder, don’t we all hope that our juniors will live well?” What junwang, qinwang, these titles were useless. They were not as useful as a man that would treat her daughter with his entire heart. Their marquis fu was not a top tier family in Jing City but they were not at the point they needed to rely on the happiness of their daughter in order to maintain the glory of their family.

The old taitai nodded and conversed some more with her juniors. She indicated for Lu shiand her daughter to use the noon meal together but she did not persist after Lu shigently rejected it. They exchanged a few more courtesies before Lu shi took Hua Xi Wan and left the home of the third Hua Master.

The spring was the time that the males and females in Jing City went out on horses to admire the spring. Therefore, the streets of Jing never lacked for those richly dressed. When the sedan stopped in the middle of the road, Hua Xi Wan knew that there was someone of status that was coming from the opposite direction.

In a TV series that she had been a part of in her past life, there had been two in luential families of equal rank that had gotten into a disagreement over whose sedan would go irst. Only when she came here did she know that both sides were extremely polite in this circumstance and would at least give the right of way to the other, trading between a few times, before deciding who would go irst. Even if one side was of higher status, they would not have a proud attitude. If the person who gave up the right of way had some status, the other would at least have a servant come to give their appreciation.

The families that could establish themselves in Jing mostly had gone through generations of storm and rain. They were very careful in their conduct and were not willing to stain the reputation of their families for minor matters.

A short while later, Hua Xi Wan heard the voice of a woman from outside the sedan, “Many thanks, Yi’an Marquis Furen, the princess is in a hurry to return to the fu. Furen is so polite, this servant thanks Furen’s virtue for the princess.”

“Servant-woman is polite. Princess is of great status, and has something important. There is nothing virtuous about this subject-wife giving right of way.” Lu shi’s voice was not loud or soft, but it was enough so the servant-woman could hear her clearly, “Servant-woman, please.”

The matron once again expressed her gratefulness. A beat later, Hua Xi Wan heard the sound of a carriage passing by. She picked up a corner of the curtain and managed to see a carriage embroidered with phoenixes pass by. There were also the characters “Rui He” embroidered on the carriage.

So it was the carriage of Princess Rui He. Hua Xi Wan put down the silk curtain, and laid back against the soft cushion behind her to keep resting.

The present Imperial One was weak in children. Even though he had many women in the palace, but up until now, he only had one son and daughter. The Princess Rui He who had just passed by was his only daughter. Even though she was married, she was still very favoured by the Emperor.

When mother and daughter returned to the Marquis Fu, Yi’an Marquis was present. When mother and daughter came into the door, Hua He Sheng said, “Today, the Imperial One has sent down another imperial decree which has moved the date of Daughter’s wedding earlier.”

“What?” Lu shi’s expression was slightly ugly. Looking at her daughter beside her, she raised her hand to indicate for the servants to leave. “Didn’t it say that the marriage would be completed until after autumn has started?”

Hua Xi Wan’s brow creased slightly. After helping Lu shi sit, she said, “Father, what time did the Emperor move the wedding to?”

Hua He Sheng sighed. In his eyes, his daughter was perfect everywhere. Even her shortcoming of being slightly lazy was blamed on the sickness she had in the past. How could he bear to let his daughter marry in such a hurry to that kind of family? “The Emperor said that the twenty-eight of the next month is a good day.”

Hua Xi Wan raised an eye brow and did not speak. She only played with the little walnuts in the blue porcelain bowl and was clearly not concerned with the excuse the Emperor had.

The present Crown Prince was average in talent, and was also a person who could not listen to others. He was not popular in the court. But the Emperor only had this one son so he was always extremely wary of his brothers and their sons. This could be seen from the people he bestowed in marriage to his nephews.

Of these bestowed marriage, if the female did not have a family who was not intelligent, the families were of high status but had no real power. Even though her own family did not belong to the two types, the outside word was that she was of weak constitution and had a crude appearance.

Everyone knew the handsomeness of Xian Junwang and all of Jing also knew just how much all of Yi’an Marquis Fu loved her, the daughter. So when an exceptional man married an ugly woman, how could he not be

angry, how could he not favor the concubines and neglect the di wife? That was equivalent to offending the entire Yi’an Marquis Fu, and also offending all of the families that were on good relations with the Yi’an Marquis Fu.

But who could say that the Emperor was purposefully giving his nephew matches that did not have good birth? As to the rumors about her appearance, the Emperor was not the common people, how could he go and listen to something like this?

Hua Xi Wan could think of this and Hua He Sheng naturally could too. He sighed. “That place is covered in gold and glory but it is actually the dirtiest place.”

When she heard this, Hua Xi Wan smiled. She hadn’t expected someone of such status as Hua He Sheng could say something like this. His thinking was pretty progressive.

“If I knew before that it would be like this, I would have set down Xi Wan’s marriage early on.” Lu shi was in a slightly low mood. “Who knew that the outside rumors made Xi Wan’s appearance to be like that, yet the Emperor still decreed marriage.” Personally, she had wanted to choose a son of her brothers or sisters to be her daughter’s husband. This way, it would ease some of her worries and her daughter would not be slighted.

When the rumors about their daughter’s average appearance spread, husband and wife had never planning on standing up and giving the

truth. Even though it was good for a female to have beauty, being too beautiful was not a good thing.

Not speaking of how short a female’s spring was and even the best beauty would have one day it would become old, if that appearance was what caused the intentions of a man, then when the appearance was gone, the outcome would be for the female to guard her chambers alone. If her daughter’s appearance was known early on, it would cause trouble. At that time, no one would say that a man was lustful, they only say that her daughter was a beautiful calamity.

Their family could not afford to gamble and did not want to gamble with the happiness of her daughter’s life. Who knew no matter how much they schemed, they had not planned for an imperial decree to easily decide her daughter’s life.

Hua Xi Wan knew the wishes of her parents. She put down the walnut in her hand and urged gently, “Father, Mother, Xian Junwang’s appearance is a temptation for others, but at least it shows he is a good choice. His status isn’t quite what is wished for but due to his reputation, we know of his conduct and appearance. Also, this daughter’s appearance is not as terribly crude as in the rumors. I think that Xian Junwang would not do anything outrageous. You have done enough for me. The Emperor has spoken, so how can anyone blame you?

Hua He Sheng heard this and knew that his daughter did not bear for husband and wife to worry. He forced a smile and said, “You are right. If Xian Junwang is not good to you, I will ask for a decree for the two of you to divorce. The Marquis Fu will support you for your entire life.”

“Good,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “At that time, don’t ind this daughter troublesome.” She knew very well. How could a marriage bestowed by the Emperor be allowed to end in divorce? Other than the Emperor giving the decree but that was the Emperor slapping his own face. Wouldn’t that imply that his decree of marriage had not been a good one?

But it was extremely rare that her parents were able do such a thing. If this was any other family, they would have started to dance and celebrate that their daughter was getting married to Xian Junwang.

After having the noon meal with her parents, Hua Xi Wan returned to her own rooms. Looking at the furnishings in the room that were all for her own comfort, her lips curled. Then she had the servant girls take off her hairpins, laid on the bed and went for a noon nap.

Sun shi looked at the two words “Leisure Garden” on the doorway and couldn’t help but recall how shocked she had been when she had seen her younger sister-in-law the second day after her marriage. Before she married into the marquis fu, she had heard the rumors that her younger sister-in-law was average in appearance. Before her marriage, her mother had especially warned her for her to treat her younger sister-in-law well and to not slight the other because of her appearance. She herself felt that it was really terrible that a good girl was being talked about because of her appearance and had always thought how to get close to her younger sister-in-law without causing the other to feel awkward. But when she inally met the person of interest, everything she had thought about was useless.

There were no words that could describe the appearance of her younger sister-in-law but if she was a male, she would de initely want to marry her and hid her in the home.

“Eldest Young Mistress,” Bai Xia saw Sun shi walk in and hurriedly bowed. She lifted up the curtain for Sun shi to enter the room.

“Has meimei risen?” Sun shi was close with her younger sister-in-law so she was more casual when she talked with Bai Xia and the others, “Am I disturbing meimei’s noon nap?”

“Saosao, don’t mock me. It is almost night, there is no noon nap to speak off.” Hua Xi Wan walked out of the room in a blue dress and pulled Sun shi down to sit close. “Saosao, has you come to see me for something good?”

“Can’t I come see you even if there isn’t anything good?” Sun shi smiled as she handed a box to Hua Xi Wan. “I need to go back to see Fu’er, I won’t stay.”

Fu’er was Eldest Brother and his wife’s son and eight months old at the moment. This was the time he wanted to stay close to people. Sun shi had come most likely because she found a chance where Fu’er was sleeping and the nanny could look after him. Therefore, Hua Xi Wan did not ask her to stay and let Sun shi leave after exchanging a few more words.

After Sun shi left, Hua Xi Wan opened the box. She found what was inside were not jade and jewelry but a thick stack of paper. Written on the papers were information about people connected to Xian Junwang and the connections between the families.

Closing the box, Hua Xi Wan smiled. Regardless of how useful this was, what was most precious was how Sun shi’s feelings and intentions.

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I’ve tried to come up with English terms that convey the same meaning as Chinese ones. Expect a lot more of compound words with hyphens in future chapters. Wife-of-grandson and granddaughter-in-law … … do people ever use terms such as grandniece-in-law?

步摇: a certain kind of hair adornment that has tassels or other parts that sway with movement, hence the term step-shake

全福 (Complete fortune, or whole fortune) means that a person has the

good fortunes of parents, daughters, and has love between spouses, and harmonious relationships between brothers and sisters. A “Good Fortune” person is used during a marriage ceremony to request that the future couple will have auspicious fortune.

喜秤: joy measure, a stick used to lift the veil in a marriage ceremony. Chapter Three Wedding

No matter how ugly the rumors on the outside were, Xian Junwang Fu put great importance on the wedding. They did not skimp on the ceremonial proceedings. A few days later, other than the betrothal gifts that had been arranged according to the rank that came from the Department of Palace Affairs that was delivered to the marquis fu, there were also the objects that the wang fu had added. These items were not

added in order to make the amount look pleasing but were actually ine objects.

After Hua He Sheng and Lu shi saw the betrothal gift list, their dissatisfaction decreased slightly. No matter what Xian Junwang thought, he had not decreased the number of items. When their daughter married over, the other would not do something as worrisome as favoring the concubine and neglecting the wife.

The one that delivered the betrothal gifts was Xu Wang Fei who was of great reputation in Jing City and who was over sixty years old. In her words and tone, Xu Wang Fei implied that Xian Juwang was not unwilling at all about the marriage, and even guaranteed explicitly and implicitly that Xian Juwang would treat Hua Xi Wan well. It caused Lu shi’s opinion of Xian Junwang to increase.

While Lu shi was of a straight-forward personality, she was from a large family. She could hear Xu Wang Fei probing for information about her daughter. With a smile, she de lected. Seeing this, Xu Wang Fei did not persist. The marriage had been decreed. No matter if this Miss Hua was truly ugly or not, the matter was set in stone and there was no meaning in speaking more.

After Xu Wang Fei left, Hua Xi Wan came out from behind. Lu shi said to her, “The people of the Imperial Family will speak like this, all of them drawing lowers with their tongues. Every word is pleasing to hear, but you do not know where the trap is behind their words. I let you hide behind and listen, not for you to know how rich and noble XianJunwang Fu is, but how the people of the Imperial Family truly are.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at the long betrothal gift list and then said neutrally a beat later, “XianJunwang … … is as considerate as the rumors say.” When news of this spread, everyone in Jing would praise Xian Junwang for being good. Such a number betrothal gifts, even when Sheng Junwang had married the granddaughter of Imperial Teacher He, there hadn’t been so much.

If their relationship was not harmonious in the future, others would only say that she was of rough appearance, a jealous woman, and that she was wasting such a good man.

Lu shi saw her expression was not happy nor angry and assumed that she was unhappy at getting marriage. She urged, “In the future, if you receive bad treatment, you still have us and your two older brothers. Our marquis fu is not as noble as the junwang fu, but Xian Junwang will not dare to be outrageous.”

“Mother, what are you thinking about?” Hua Xi Wan touched the buyao in her hair and gave a smile, “This daughter is not one to accept humiliation. Don’t worry.”

Lu shi nodded. As a mother, she knew her daughter’s personality. So at the end, she only sighed and said, “In the following days, follow the teaching servant-ladies and learn about the matters of the Imperial House. There are no simple people in the Imperial House. It will be good for you to learn.”

Hua Xi Wan nodded and seeing Lu shi still had other matters, she bowed and left the yard. She went back to her own rooms to learn some of the etiquette of the court with the servant-ladies and then after the noon meal, just like normal, she had her noon nap.

No matter how great the matter was, there was no use in worrying. When the boat reached the pier, it would straighten with the current.

Qilong Year Twenty Eight, the twenty eight day of the third month, good for marriage and for moving.

Even though she liked to sleep in, Hua Xi Wan had to wake up early to wash and be made up. She put on the robes embroidered with dragons and phoenixes. Looking at the servant girls and women busy around her, she actually became the idlest person.

There were still lamps lit in the room. “Double joy” character cut-outs had been hung up on the windows and door long ago. Even the servant girls had changed their attire into celebratory colors.

At this time, Lu shi came in carrying a bowl of peanut glutinous rice balls. Her eyes red, she said, “Consummate and smooth.”

Hua Xi Wan took the bowl of rice balls from Lu shi’s hands. She looked at her elder brother, his wife, and her second brother behind Lu shi. With sore eyes, she said with a smile, “Thank you, Mother.”

When a woman was leaving in marriage, an elder of the family would personally cook something with auspicious meaning, and then it would be eaten in the company of those in the same generation or younger. It represented the good wishes of the family towards the woman, and told the woman about to be married that their paternal family will forever be behind them in support. This custom was very rare among the in luential families, or rather, it was that many in luential families could not make this promise because of the bene its gained by the family. But right now, her parents and brothers were giving her a promise that an in luential family would not easily make. How lucky she was.

The peanut and sesame illed rice balls were slightly sweet and the sweetness reached her heart. She blinked her eyes and found her vision was slightly blurry.

After eating the rice balls, the Good Fortune Matron made up Hua Xi Wan’s makeup and started to do her hair. The moment the phoenix crown was put on her head, Hua Xi Wan felt her head was weighed down and then she heard the Good Fortune Matron start to speak auspicious words.

The Good Fortune Matron, Gao shi, was someone with status in Jing. If it wasn’t because of her relationship with Yi’an Marquis Fu, she would not be willing to be the Good Fortune Matron as she had heard the rumors in Jing and really did not want to get involved in these matters.

When Gao shi inally saw Hua Xi Wan’s true appearance, she inally understood what it meant that what the ears heard were false. If having

such appearance meant being called a female without beauty, then there were no beautiful women in the world. The people of Yi’an Marquis Fu really could keep their composure. The outside rumors were at such a terrible level but they did not even speak up. Thinking about Hua Xi Wan’s appearance, she had to admit that the present situation was better for Hua Xi Wan.

When the irecrackers started to crackle outside, the Good Fortune Matron gave a call of “Joy” under the reluctant gazes from all of the Hua Family and put the veil over Hua Xi Wan’s head.

With the veil on, she could only see red. Hua Xi Wan tilted her head down slightly and saw Lu shi’s embroidered shoes a few steps away. She seemed to have already walked two steps towards Hua Xi Wan but in the end, she reluctantly returned to her original spot.

“Junwang fei, please rise.”

“First step, start, blessings for high position and great wealth together.”

Lu shi covered her mouth and wiped the corner of her eyes with her handkerchief. She didn’t want her daughter to ind she was crying but the feelings could not be disguised.

“Second step, walk, blessings for a hundred years of living without worry.”

Hua Xi Wan’s head tilted in Lu shi’s direction. Even through the veil, everyone in the room knew the person she wanted to see was Lu shi.

“Third step, travel, blessings for sons, daughters, and grandchildren around your knees.”

Even though she could not see the road in front of her, Hua Xi Wan was being helped by the Good Fortune Matron. Every step was extremely steady and then she stopped at the doorway. The noise outside gradually neared and then she heard Xian Junwang’s voice.

“Zi Ling greets Wife, Wife, please come onto the sedan.”

Xian Junwang’s name was Yan Jin Qiu, his literary name was Zi Ling. He was the son of Xian Qinwang. Four years ago, Yan Jin Qiu succeeded the title of wang that had been demoted a level in the succession. The rumors were that this person’s appearance was outstanding. He was warm and gentle, and a rare good man.

Yan Jin Qiu’s voice was gentle and pleasing to hear, but under the veil, Hua Xi Wan was expressionless. After Yan Jin Qiu repeated the request two more times, Hua Xi Wan’s big brother, Hua Chang Bao opened the two. First, he and Yan Jin Qiu bowed to each other and then Hua Xi Wan was carried on her second brother Hua Ding Rong’s back while her hand was held by the Good Fortune Matron to go out the door.

The Imperial House males that came with Yan Jin Qiu to request the bride laughed and teased that the bride inally came out. They were enthusiastic as they crowded around the bride all the way until they were out of the fu. They were so enthusiastic it seemed they were not affected by the rumors at all.

When the dowry was carried out chest by chest from the marquis fu, the people that were spectating from the streets gaped. They had heard that Yi’an Marquis Fu loved their daughter greatly, but they hadn’t expected it to be this kind of love. Looking at the dowry, it seemed that as the irst chest entered the wang fu, the last one would not have left the gates of the marquis fu yet.

Some people felt that Yi’an Marquis Fu had prepared such a large dowry for Xian Junwang Fei in order to bolster her. Since her appearance was not good, if the dowry was not large, then wouldn’t the Imperial Family look down her even more?

No matter the reasoning, the more money a female had, the more con idence she would have. So the matrons that were watching were slightly envious. No matter how ugly XianJunwang Fei was, she had a good paternal family. That was the good fortune of a lifetime and something many females wished for.

Thinking this way, people looked at Xian Junwang that was riding proudly on a high horse. His excited expression made it seem as though he was marrying a goddess rather than a female without beauty. Seeing this, everyone sighed again. As expected of Xian Junwang. They could not compare to his mentality.

The two-roofed lower sedan circled around the main streets of Jing and then inally arrived at the gates of Xian Junwang Fu in a chorus of congratulations. Hua Xi Wan heard the crackle of irecrackers from outside which were so loud that her ears almost became temporarily deaf.

When the curtain to the sedan was opened and she was carried, she found that the person carrying her on their back was not the joy matron, but a male.

“Wife, we are entering the door.”

The person carrying her was Yan Jin Qiu. Hua Xi Wan’s lips curled. She did not speak and just used her ingertips to lightly scratch the other’s shoulder to indicate she heard it.

Hearing the words of praise for how considerate Xian Junwang was, the smile on Hua Xi Wan’s lips grew. Yes, such a good man who did not distain his wife’s ugly appearance and personally carried her off the sedan in worry that others would look at her. It was so considerate it moved others to the point of tears.

If she really had an ugly appearance and had not lived another life, just by Yan Jin Qiu’s action here, she would fall in love deeply with him.

Entering the gates of the wang fu, Yan Jin Qiu put down Hua Xi Wan and took the red ribbon from the hand of the joy attendant. One end was tightly held in his hand, the other in Hua Xi Wan’s hand. He then carefully guided Hua Xi Wan to walk in.

Passing through one door after another, turning through one section after another of corridors, listening to the words of good wishes, Hua Xi Wan’s expression became even more aloof under the veil. But when she walked into the main hall to prepare to bow to the world, she had recovered her calm.

The ceremony only truly begun after the messenger the Emperor sent inished reciting the decree. One kneel to the heaven and earth, three bows. Second kneel to the parents, three bows. Husband and wife kneeling to each other, three bows.

The Good Fortune Matron that had been invited by the Xian Junwang Fu helped Hua Xi Wan into the marriage chambers to rest. The unrelated people all left. Only Hua Xi Wan’s four personal servant girls were left to accompany her.

Hua Xi Wan found a comfortable position against the head board. She knew that someone was guarding the door so she did not speak. Yawning, she closed her eyes to rest, waiting for the groom to be inish drinking and come to lift her veil.

Yan Jin Qiu was a very personable person and released after one circuit of toasts. The younger generation that had wanted to go to the marriage

room recalled the rumors and were afraid that he would look bad so no one voiced that they wanted to see the bride. In the end, only the joy attendant and some female elders accompanied him to the rooms.

He pushed open the door that was half-closed and saw Hua shi sitting digni iedly on the bed. From the outside, she looked of ine igure. Four beautiful servant girls that were part of the dowry were standing two each on the left and right. Seeing him come in, they simultaneously bowed towards him with elegant movements. It could be seen that the marquis fu had trained them well.

Of normal appearance but she dared to pick four beautiful servant girls to serve her, this Hua shi had a very good attitude.

“Xian Junwang, please take off the veil.” The joy attendant saw Xian Junwang staring at the bride and handed him the joy stick with two hands.

Taking the joy stick, Yan Jin Qiu walked next to Hua Yi Wan. His hand hesitated slightly as he reached out and then he quickly took off the veil without any hesitation.

Translator Ramblings: At least there is a marriage ceremony … … Qu Qing Ju didn’t get her marriage ceremony and had a troublesome family so Hua Xi Wan wins on these aspects.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

It’s that time of the week again.

Chapter Four Dazzling The Eyes

Yan Jin Qiu felt that he had pulled the veil off so quickly that he dazzled his eyes.

The room was deathly silent. The eunuch that attended Yan Jin Qiu, Mu Tong, saw that the entire room of people did not make a sound and was so frightened he did not dare to breathe. He also didn’t dare to look in the direction ofWang fei. He didn’t know what kind of glorious appearance Junwang fei had that she managed to shock the entire room.

A long moment later, the joy attendant found her voice again. She took the joy stick from Yan Jin Qiu’s hand with a smile, and said in a slightly trembling voice, “CongratulationsJunwang ye, congratulations Junwang ye. Good wishes for Junwang ye and Junwang fei to grow until the hair turns white, children and grandchildren illing the halls.” She had acted as the joy attendant for many marriages of prestigious and in luential families but she had never seen such a beautiful bride before. She felt she was seeing a goddess from the paintings, and even she, this half-old woman, felt her heart beat faster.

Mu Tong could hear that the tone of the joy attendant was normal and peeked atJunwang ye who was in the front and to the left of him.

However, he could only see the slightly smiling face of Junwang ye and could not judge if his master was happy or disappointed. Mu Tong dropped his head. With this movement, he coincidentally saw the red embroidered shoes on the feet of Junwang fei. The shoes were embroidered with dragons and phoenixes playing with beads. This pair of feet appeared exceptionally pretty as the beads were made from ine pearls and the craftsmanship was also detailed.

Just as the room was in a deathly silence, the sound footsteps came from outside the door. Yan Jin Qiu looked at the half-closed door and stepped forward to block Hua Xi Wan behind him.

“Today is Xian Junwang’s day of great joy. If this palace does not come to spectate, it would not be fun.” Princess Rui He was wearing a luxurious long dress embroidered with phoenixes. Before she even entered, low laughter passed through into the room. When she came in with her servant girls, she swept a look towards the bed. However, she only saw the bright red dress of the bride. She covered a smile at the corner of her mouth with her handkerchief and said, “You do not bear to let us look?”

Then she reached and pulled the hand of County Lady Min Huai who came in with her. Princess Rui He patted County Lady Min Huai’s hand with a smile. “Look at Xian Junwang. She has just entered the door and he knows to care for the bride.”

County Lady Min Huai was not of age and clearly had been pulled here by Princess Rui He to spectate. But she really did not have the bravery to casually speak in a situation like this.

“Imperial Elder Sister is joking,” Yan Jin Qiu had a faint smile as he bowed towards Princess Rui He, “My wife is shy, and embarrassed when she meets many people.”

Princess Rui He smiled but did not make any further actions to see the appearance of the bride. She considerately stepped back to the side to an angle where she could not see Hua Xi Wan. “Since that is the case, I will not disturb you from your rest.” Her tone was calm as though she was only coming here to ful ill her duty as an elder female cousin and did not have any other intentions.

She naturally could see that Yan Jin Qiu was unwilling to let people see the bride in this kind of state. Therefore, she had con idence in the rumors. She said a few more words and took County Lady Min Huai back outside. When she left the yard and no one was around, the smile on her face gradually faded.

She looked indifferently at County Lady Min Huai beside her who had a dazed expression. Princess Rui He’s tone was slightly aloof. “Now that Xian Junwang has a wang fei, your marriage should be next.”

County Lady Min Huai forced a smile at Princess Rui He and said, “I know.”

Princess Rui He nodded and did not speak further. Recalling Xian Junwang’s action just now, her eyes showed satisfaction.

As Princess Rui He came and went, Hua Xi Wan could barely discern that Princess Rui He did not want Yan Jin Qiu to marry a satisfactory junwang fei. She was the only daughter of the Imperial One, of high status, and naturally wanted the next emperor to be her brother, and not a male cousin.

This Princess Rui He did have a great mind to purposefully come with an unmarried county lady. Even though she had not said a thing, she made others feel that the county lady and Xian Junwang had something between them, or that the county lady had some intentions towards Yan Jin Qiu.

Before husband and wife could even start to nurture their relationship, someone irst created a knot between them, so how could their future emotions be positive? Also, if she, the new bride, had low self-esteem due to her ugly appearance, with this supposedly beautiful and virtuous County Lady Min Huai as the example, wouldn’t she feel even more inferior in the future?

But no one could catch any law in Princess Rui He’s conduct as visiting the marriage chambers was a joyful event both males and females did. If Hua Xi Wan really thought too much, that was because she was ungenerous. Could she blame other people?

The people of the Imperial Family were really the people of the Imperial Family. They could throw out hidden weapons as they talked and smiled, killing without seeing blood. Hua Xi Wan slowly raised an

eyebrow and laughed lightly at Yan Jin Qiu. She said in a low voice, “Wang ye, you must be laughing at this humble one.”

Standing at the side with a bowed head, Mu Tong thought that Junwang fei’s voice was pleasing to hear, light and soft yet it did not seem unenergetic to the listener. It sweetened the heart of the listener. It could be seen that the heavens were fair. Even though it did not give Junwang fei a good appearance, it gave wang fei a heavenly voice.

The joy attendant and the females of the Imperial House saw this and bid their farewells, stating they wanted to join the celebration in the front hall.

“Junior Zi Ling is extremely grateful to the elders for helping with today.” Yan Jin Qiu bowed to the Imperial female family members, “Wife is timid, please have more tolerance in the future.”

“Xian Junwang is too polite. It is normal for the new bride to be embarrassed. As the husband, you should give more care.” The females present could hear that XianJunwang’s words meant he hoped that they would not speak of what happened today to others. They had close relationships with Xian Junwang Fu to start with in order to accompany Xian Junwang to the marriage chamber and naturally would not make trouble. The old wangfei that was the leader of the group said, “Us old women will not keep you any longer. Have an early rest.”

When the people left the marriage room, Yan Jin Qiu picked up the two cups of wine on the table with his own hands and walked with a smile

to sit next to Hua Xi Wan. “Xi Wan, today is the day of our great joy. You have to drink this cup of wine.”

A warm and white inger accidentally brushed the back of his hand as she took the wine cup from his hand. That beautiful hand increased the beauty of the red jade wine cup.

Under the candle lights, her exquisite brow caused Yan Jin Qiu who was used to seeing all kinds of beautiful people to feel amazement. In this moment, he was suspicious. How could there be such a beautiful person in the world?

Their arms crossed and they drank to the bottom from each other’s hands. Yan Jin Qiu took the empty cups and said to Mu Tong who was standing with a bowed head at the side, “Clear the table, and put on food that is easy to digest.”

“Yes.” Mu Tong took the two empty wine cups from Yan Jin Qiu’s hands with his igure bowed. In this instant, he saw the wrist that was exposed from Junwang fei’s sleeve. He thought inside, the skin is as white as snow, but it is a pity she is not a beauty.

Bai Xia and the other three people saw Wang ye’s attendant go out to prepare food so they exchanged looks, bowed to the pair, and then retreated to guard at the door.

“Wang ye,” After the servants in the room left, Hua Xi Wan pointed at her phoenix crown and said, “can you help qie take this down. It is too heavy, qie’s neck hurts from its weight.”

The phoenix crown was smelted from pure gold and it was of a phoenix in light with a pearl in its beak. Even though the craftsmanship was exquisite, it could not make up for the fact this was still a heavy gold crown.

“Is it to take the hairpin here?” Yan Jin Qiu took out the hairpin that held the crown and gently took off the heavy phoenix crown to put it to the side. Then he started to naturally kneaded Hua Xi Wan’s neck and shoulders to help her relax. “It really is heavy.”

Because the phoenix crown and the hairpin had been taken off, the black hair fell to her waist. Yan Jin Qiu felt the soft strands of hair with the backs of his hands. The ine feeling caused him to touch the strands a few more times and feel that the best brocade in thefu could not compare to these black strands.

The two were husband and wife now, but there were still strangers who were meeting for the irst time. Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Xi Wan sitting silently next to him and said, “In the future, we do not have to be too courteous between us. You can call me Jin Qiu.”

Hua Xi Wan raised her head to look at the person beside her. He was just about twenty and his appearance was truly outstanding. The corners of his eyes were slightly raised, and seemed seductive but his

speech and conduct held an aura of consideration. She had a faint smile. “Large hills are mountains, mountains can also be called mounds,Wang ye really has a good name.”

Their gazes met in the air and then both gave a smile. Yan Jin Qiu said, “Names are just an appellation.”

“Wang ye is right.” Hua Xi Wan did not continue this question. She smiled and tilted her head down to take off the bracelets on her wrists and the jade and bags at her waist. These things, when they were taken down, were also a considerable weight.

“Junwang ye,Junwang fei, the food is ready,” Mu Tong announced from outside the door and paused for a moment before he came in with servants to put out the prepared food.

“It is now night, if anything else is eaten, it will cause indigestion. You have not eaten anything today. Eat some of this to pad your stomach.” Yan Jin Qiu stood and held Hua Xi Wan’s hand to sit down beside the table.

“Junwang ye, Junwangfei, because the kitchen does not know Junwang fei’s tastes, they have made two types for each type.” Mu Tong said after introducing the style of each of the dishes, “If Junwang fei has something you like to eat or use, please tell this little one. This little one will de initely get the servants to ful ill it.”

Hua Xi Wan jerked the corners of her mouth and then turned to say to Yan Jin Qiu, “Jin Qiu’s attendants are really attentive.” The words appeared to be announcing loyalty to her, but were actually telling her that the person in charge of the fu was he?

If Yan Jin Qiu had not given his permission, this eunuch called Mu Tong would not have the guts to say this. It seemed that Yan Jin Qiu had already implied this beforehand?

“In the future, if anyone on the fu does not listen to you, beat them out of the fu with sticks.” Yan Jin Qiu put the steaming meat porridge in front of Hua Xi Wan and said without concern, “Now that the junwang fu has you as the female mistress, it inally can be called a home.”

Hua Xi Wan took the porridge and smiled widely, but did not speak.

Mu Tong was slightly surprised. Did Wang ye’s words meant that he had changed his previous idea? He secretly looked over and then felt his legs soften. His breathing stuttered and he almost fell to the ground.

Where was the female without beauty that was rumored to stay home because her appearance was frightening? Who was this peerless beauty?

Mu Tong felt that he was not in a good state because he felt that he was even more afraid to look at Junwang fei because her appearance … … was really too attractive.

There was only one phrase in his mind, a calamitous beauty.

妾: Two meanings, concubine, or I, your servant. Hua Xi Wan is

speaking to Yan Jin Qiu as he technically is the head of the house and her superior.

丘

Qiu( ) means hill, large hills are mountains, or mountains.

陵 (ling) can mean mound

Translator Ramblings: I agree that the clif hanger last week was painful. County lady is my translation of junzhu ( ). I do not like it very much but it is not used often like Wang fei and Wang ye.

郡主

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Five Thanking

The ancients used the “Ode to the Nymph of the River Luo” to describe the beauty of the Nymph Luo. Yan Jin Qiu had not put great attention on it in the past. Where would there be such a beauty in this world? If there really was such a beauty, how many men would go crazy?

However, after the meal last night and having their wedding night of candles and lowers, he inally knew what was:

“Her body soars lightly like a startled swan

Gracefully like a dragon in light

In splendor brighter than the autumn chrysanthemum

In bloom more lourishing than the pine in spring”

He had changed his clothing early in the morning and was now looking at the woman getting dressed in front of the mirror. She clearly was just propping her cheeks in her hands, but it became a lazy beauty when she did it. It made the watcher want to be the jade bangle she held in her hand, and satis ied with just a smile from the beauty.

Because the marriage had just occurred and they had to visit the Emperor and Empress, Hua Xi Wan picked out a wide-sleeved lowered palace dress. The colors were bold but when Hua Xi Wan put the dress on, she suppressed the boldness of the large red lowers. People only saw her white skin and beautiful igure.

Looking at herself in the mirror with a lying immortal hairstyle, Hua Xi Wan picked out a buyao in the shape of a blue bird holding a pearl to put into her hair. This caused the yellow lower in the middle of her brows to also become bright.

Bai Xia and the others did not ask why the junwang fei had picked this gold buyao that was outrageously beautiful. They only dressed her according to her wishes beautifully so that no one could pick any laws.

They had attended Junwang fei for more than seven years, and rarely seen Junwang fei put any attention on her attire. Usually, she would do whatever was most comfortable. Only when she went to the Third Mister Hua’s fu to make morning greetings to the old mistress would Junwang fei put on the attire be itting of a miss of a marquis fu. They had never seen her like today as she personally picked everything from the hairpins to the scent pouches.

Hua Xi Wan used the eyebrow brush to draw out the most suitable shape and even used a specialized pen to draw the corners of her eyes. After she inished putting on her own makeup, she stood and let the servant girls order the adornments and pouches on her body.

Each woman had a side that was lazy, but when they needed to go out to see people, exquisite makeup, and grand clothing were essentials. Some people like to use the phrase “women dressed up to please others.” Hua Xi Wan snorted at this. She would dress herself up beautifully before going out, not for some man, but to satisfy her own desire for beauty. Which man in the world did not want to be a bit more handsome, which woman a bit more beautiful?

But men always thought that all the women in the world attired themselves beautifully in order to attract them. She didn’t know if they thought they held that much signi icance to be so self-centered.

She could have loose and messy hair at home when she did not have to see others, but when she walked out the door, she would be the bright and beautiful empress.

After the servant girls put on the last tassel to weigh down her dress, Hua Xi Wan inally turned to Yan Jin Qiu that was sitting at the side. She had a faint smile as she said, “Jin Qiu, you have waited for long.”

“To see a beauty put on her attire, it is a pleasure, not a wait.” Yan Jin Qiu moved his gaze slightly aside, walked in front of Hua Xi Wan and said, “The sun is not yet up, why don’t we use the morning meal before going in to see the Imperial One.”

“I will listen to your arrangements.” Hua Xi Wan nodded. She knew that Yan Jin Qiu’s mother had died early and his father, Xian Wang had died

y g four years ago so she did not need to serve the elders in the tea ceremony. There was a smile on her lips as she naturally gave her hand to Yan Jin Qiu to let him support her. Coming out of the inner room into the outer hall, she saw a procession of servant girls come in with dishes of all kinds. They put out cutlery and plates before they retreated.

It seemed that while there was no female in charge, but the protocol of this fu was not lax at all. Hua Xi Wan swept a look across the eunuchs and servant girls that were standing with bowed heads in the room. After she sat down together with Yan Jin Qiu, she allowed the servant girls to serve her in washing her hands before she started to use the meal.

Even though the number of dishes was the same as in the marquis fu, but she could taste that the ingredients were iner than in the marquis fu. Mu Tong must be a very attentive house-keeper and the servants were also clearly respectful and fearful of Xian Junwang, their master.

The outside said that Xian Junwang was warm in conduct and considerate. So how was he able to get the servants to respect and fear him so?

She used her movement of drinking porridge to peek at Yan Jin Qiu beside her. From an objective perspective, Yan Jin Qiu’s skin beauty was very good. She had not seen many that were more perfect than he was in her past life while she was in the entertainment circles. There was also his presence. He really was an attractive male. No wonder he had such high fame among the females of Jing.

The porridge was made from carefully-chosen purple rise that was irm to the bite, pleasing to eat and not too rich. It was very suitable to eating after getting up. She thought in satisfaction, she didn’t have to worry about food now that she married into the junwang fu.

After inishing the morning meal, Hua Xi Wan used a handkerchief to cover her mouth as she rinsed and then she took a towel to wipe her mouth. She said to Yan Jin Qiu with a smile, “I wonder who the main chef in the fu is. This meal has been very pleasing. Hong Ying, reward the main chief ten taels of silver, the other chefs each ive, and the rest who work in the kitchen half a string of cash.”

Hong Ying bent down slightly, “This servant will remember.”

Hua Xi Wan nodded. Turning to look at Yan Jin Qiu, she said, “Married to Jin Qiu, I will have great fortune in food in the future.”

Yan Jin Qiu was washing his hands and wiping them on a towel. Hearing Hua Xi Wan speak, he smiled and said, “It is their duty to serve to their master’s comfort, and also their good fortune”

Hua Xi Wan said with a smile, “Even so, but we should reward those that work hard. We also need to let other people know. This is an example.”

“Xi Wan is right.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at the color of the sky outside. Standing, he said, “The time is right. Let’s go out now.”

Hua Xi Wan nodded. As she prepared to stand, she saw Yan Jin Qiu reach a hand out in front of her. She was not awkward, and put her hand in the middle of his to use him as support to stand. She followed Yan Jin Qiu out of the room.

There was a considerable garden outside the main house that the two of them lived in that was planted with all kinds of strange and unique lora. There were also vast fake mountains which caused this to appear extremely artistic. Out of the main house, there was a large lotus pond with a nine-turn bridge constructed on top of it. When Hua Xi Wan passed over the bridge, she could see ish swimming in the water.

This Xian Junwang Fu was very interesting. The main house was near mountains and water, it was a very good fengshui setup, not to mention the lotus pond which represented auspicious luck. It could be seen that the old wang ye had put great effort when the fu had irst been built.

Coming out of the Door of Drooping Flowers, there were two sedans waiting outside. Hua Xi Wan got on the sedan. When the sedan was carried to the main gate, she walked down the sedan and looked at the pair of intimidating lions standing at the front gates of the wang fu. She then looked around. There were not any people that were watching, only the guards that were standing up straight with their heads bowed. The six black horses that were in front of the carriage did not have any other color in their hides, and contrasted against the copper bells on their necks.

“Come,” Yan Jin Qiu stood on the carriage and bent down to reach out a hand to Hua Xi Wan, “Come up.”

The person in front of her was wearing Shu brocade robes in the color of the sky after rain. His black hair was restrained in a jade coronet. That slight smile and the reached-out hand really made him like the perfect male of a woman’s imagination. Hua Xi Wan smiled and handed her hand to him, stepping on the stool to get on the carriage. Her buyao swung lightly, and a hint of the bashfulness unique to females appeared on her face.

But there were never people that were perfect and lawless in this world. If a person had desires, they would have laws.

“Careful,” Yan Jin Qiu put an arm around Hua Xi Wan’s waist as he said down. “Don’t be nervous in the palace, I’ll be there for everything.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and turned her eyes down. “En.”

Qilong Emperor could be considered a very able man. Winning the throne from his brothers was proof of his ability. After he succeeded the seat, he also proved that he was suited to being an emperor. His greatest regret in this life was probably that he did not have many children. In this, his brothers were much stronger than he was.

Hua Xi Wan knew that Yan Jin Qiu had an elder sister, and a shu brother several months younger than him. But she had never seen the two so

she would not mention them abruptly in front of Yan Jin Qiu.

Entering the Imperial Palace, Hua Xi Wan found while the layout of this was different than the Forbidden Palace she had visited in her past life but the presence it gave off was the same. More accurately, because the Forbidden Palace she had visited had long been absent of any feudal rulers and become a tourist spot, the authoritative feeling had lessened. When she stepped into this imperial palace, she felt the feeling of strict social strata.

The palace females and eunuchs that they encountered on their walk who bowed to them fearfully and then avoided looking at them, and the careful attitude of the eunuchs that was leading them told her what was truly called the Imperial House. This was something she would not experience when she acted as the Empress in the last life. This was probably the so-called Imperial authority.

Qilong Emperor resided in Guang Yang Hall of Cheng Tan Palace. Not even ifteen minutes after Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan arrived at the outer hall, Ma Gonggong, the eunuch that Qilong Emperor trusted the most, walked towards them and told them that the Emperor was summoning them.

“This servant has not yet congratulated Junwang,” Ma Gonggong said with a bow, “Good Wishes to Junwang and Junwang fei to have a son soon.”

“We accept Ma Gonggong’s good words.” Xian Junwang smiled but he did not deliberately try to gain favor with the people around the Emperor. “Please, Gonggong, we’ll trouble you to lead the way.”

”Junwangye is too courteous.” Ma Gongong retreated a few steps to the side and led the two of them with a slightly bowed body towards Guang Yang Hall. From beginning to end, he did not even look at Hua Xi Wan in curiosity.

“Please, Junwang ye, Junwang fei, wait for a moment.” Coming to the door of the main hall, Ma Gonggong irst bowed and then went into the hall to report. A while later, another high-ranking eunuch came out to ask the two of them in.

“Subject-nephew and wife greets Emperor.” Yan Jin Qiu took Hua Xi Wan to walk into the hall. Hua Xi Wan only saw the corner of a bright yellow robe before she knelt down with Yan Jin Qiu.

The moment Yan Jin Qiu led Hua Xi Wan into the hall, the smile on Qilong Emperor’s face faded slightly. After Yan Jin Qiu knelt down, his smile recovered. “Little Ma, quick, help Junwang ye up.”

Ma Gonggong and another female of icial had smiles on their faces as they went to help the pair. Hua Xi Wan nodded slightly at the female of icial that helped her up before she stood silently next to Yan Jin Qiu.

“There is no need to be so courteous within our family. Quick, sit down.” Qilong Emperor had an open smile on his face. As the uncle, he could not stare at his nephew’s wife so his gaze naturally landed on Yan Jin Qiu. “Now that you have married, you should put more of your mind on governance. Zhen is still hoping that you can be an assistant and ease zhen’s burden.”

“Emperor is too complementary. Subject-nephew is young and ignorance. Emperor, it is already subject-nephew’s good fortune that you do not disdain subject-nephew for not completing tasks well. Subject-nephew does not have the face to take on the label of assistant.” Yan Jin Qiu’s tone and action seemed scholarly. The rumors of his outstanding talent were not without basis.

“Young people will know after learning.” Qilong Emperor’s words expressed that he was not concerned as he said benevolently, “Yi’an Marquis Fu’s conduct is strict, and they are a family with good etiquette.

“Subject-nephew will remember Emperor’s teaching.” Yan Jin Qiu stood to bow to the Emperor as he said, “Subject-nephew thanks Emperor’s benevolence. If it is not for the Emperor, subject-nephew could not have married such a virtuous wife.”

Hua Xi Wan pushed her head lower and let her bashful expression show even clearer.

Qilong Emperor jerked the corners of his mouth in a smile. “Haha, you are zhen’s nephew, zhen will help you juniors.”

“Subject-nephew has caused Emperor to expend great effort.” Yan Jin Qiu displayed a hint of a smile.

Translator Ramblings: I’m going to use “mistress” to replace taitai, “mister” to replace lao ye ( ) and furen will become lady later on in the story. The consistency in this translation might vary since I have to go back to the previous chapters… … and it is going to end up sounding like a regency novel if I keep going.

⽼爷

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

哀家: a rough translation would be the Grieving One. Chapter Six The People of the Inner Palace

“Zhen heard that Xian Junwang Fei’s constitution is weak. There are many Grand Doctors in the palace. Zi Ling, remember to help wang fei’s body become better.” Qilong Emperor’s gaze swept across Hua Xi Wan as he spoke with the concern of an elder. “Zhenis still waiting to hold grand-nephews.”

“Yes, subject-nephew will remember.” Yan Jin Qiu accepted.

“Empress Dowager has been talking about you these days, and must be waiting impatiently now. Zhen will not keep you any longer.” Qilong Emperor talked for a while longer with husband and wife, bestowed down some things, and then said for them to leave.

Ma Gongong saw the two to the doors of the palace. Looking at the backs of the pair as they left, he sighed. He just managed a glance and did not clearly see Xian Junwang fei’s appearance but he was at least sure the other was a beauty. She was not as the rumors said, a woman without beauty.

Just as he turned and walked to the outside of Guang Yang Hall, Ma Gongong heard the sound of objects hitting the found. He paused in his step and then hurried into the hall to see the Emperor sweep everything on the table to the ground. The Emperor was clearly extremely angry.

The servants in the hall were all kneeling on the ground in terror. Ma Gongong instantly knelt down as well and said, “Emperor, please do not be angry.”

“Do not be angry, how can zhen not be angry!” Qilong Emperor had not imagined that he had schemed for everything but never planned for the fact that the daughter of Yi’an Marquis Fu to not be a woman without beauty as in the rumors but a rare beauty. Even if Xian Junwang was not one to immerse himself in beauty, facing that kind of awesome beauty, he would put in a lot of effort. Then how could it cause a con lict between him and Yi’an Marquis Fu?!

Thinking about how he had given such an assistant to Yan Jin Qiu with his own hands, Qilong Emperor who was skilled in scheming felt anger burn. Looking at the timid palace attendants in the hall, he found them exceptionally displeasing to the eye. “Take all of them out, and bestow ten blows with the plank.”

The palace attendants did not dare to beg for mercy. After being dragged out and given ten blows, they released a breath. At least they kept their life.

Even though Ma Gongong also received ten blows, the one carrying out the punishment knew that he was someone close with the Emperor. The Emperor had punished him now because of the Emperor’s terrible mood but Ma Gongong was still going to be used heavily by the Emperor in the future. So while the planks were held up high, and the sounds of impacts loud, in reality, not much force was used.

After the ten blows were inished, a junior eunuch came up to support Ma Gongong and there were even though that came with tea and water. Ma Gongong’s behind was wounded so he did not dare sit. The eunuch supported him as he leaned against the pillar and drank tea. After a bowl of tea went into his stomach, Ma Gonggong inally caught his breath. He could not endure as much as those young eunuchs. After toiling for so many years in the palace, his body was weak, and supported right now by good medicine.

“Alright, put more thought in when you are serving the Emperor.” Ma Gonggong accepted the favor from these people that were trying to make a good impression and reminded tonelessly. He did not say anything else

Everyone present was a servant of the Emperor and extremely clever. They naturally heard that Ma Gongong was implying that the Emperor was not in a good mood and would not be in the near future. They were smart and did not inquire further. They carefully saw Ma Gonggong back to his residence, their hearts were in the air.

In Fu Kang Palace, the Empress was keeping the Empress Dowager company and easing her boredom. Even though the mood was not very

warm, but it was not cold. In these years, the Empress had adjusted to this kind of atmosphere and there wasn’t any awkwardness.

The Empress Dowager was not the Emperor’s birth mother. In the past, the Emperor and Xian Junwang had all been raised under the name of the Empress Dowager. After the Emperor ascended the throne, she had been honored as Mother-Empress Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowager rarely interfered with the inner palace and maintained the appearance of a benevolent mother and a ilial son with the Emperor. These years, the Emperor could be said to be respectful of the Empress.

“Reporting to Empress Dowager, Empress, Xian Junwang and Xian Junwang Fei have come to give their morning greetings.” Servant-lady Zhao who served the Empress Dowager came in with a face full of smiles and bowed towards the two females, “Will they be summoned?”

Before the Empress could speak, the Empress Dowager said with a smile, “Quick, get them to come in. Aijia wants to see what my granddaughter looks like.”

Sitting at the side, the Empress covered her mouth and laughed lightly. She also turned her head to look at the doorway. Of all the grandchildren, the Empress Dowager always preferred Xian Junwang. Even the Crown Prince could not rival Xian Junwang’s place in her heart. However, the Empress Dowager did not have much real power and Xian Junwnagwas also one that liked poetry and not matters of government so she and the Emperor tolerated it.

She also knew the rumors that Xian Junwang Fei was a female without beauty. However, looking at the Empress Dowager, it seemed she did not know any of the rumors outside the palace. Otherwise, she would not be so interested in meeting the wife of her grandson.

The smile on the Empress’ mouth grew. Hearing the eunuch announce that Xian Junwangand Xian Junwang fei had arrived, she moved her body slightly to the side to let her sitting posture look even more digni ied.

But a short time later, the smile on the Empress’ face became forced.

The female following Xian Junwang had a lying immortal hair-style, and an eye-catching gold buyao was inserted into one side of her hair that contrasted and caused that snowy-white skin to seem even softer. The lower dress seemed to be alive, and made the wear appearing like a goddess coming to the earth. Everyone only noticed her, and could see nothing else.

A female with this beauty … … the Empress’ mind became slightly scattered. They all said that the Emperor’s inner palace was full of beauties, but compared to Xian Junwang Fei in front of her, the females in the palace was those with beauty but no presence, common rouge and powder.

The Empress only managed to recover after Xian Junwang took his wang fei and inished their greeting to the Empress Dowager. She looked at Xian Junwang fei’s hand which was being held by the Empress

Dowager who did not let go. She sighed inside. The Emperor had made a wrong step this time.

But this was also good. It was better for this kind of beauty to enter the Xian Junwang Furather than into the inner palace. If this kind of woman became an imperial concubine, she, the Empress, might not be able to keep her status, not to mention the thoughts that the Crown Prince might have after seeing this beauty. That would become the shame of a thousand years. It would be hard to predict then where the throne would land.

For women that were too beautiful, their existence was a kind of disaster. Otherwise, how could the phrase “a calamitous beauty” come about? It was hard to predict whether it was good fortune or a calamity that Xian Junwang had married such a woman.

“Good good good.” The Empress Dowager examined Hua Xi Wan closely and said three “goods” in a row. Then she said to Yan Jin Qiu, “Aijia likes this wang fei of yours. In the future, you have to treat her well. If aijia learns that you hurt her, aijia will not have mercy on you.”

Yan Jin Qiu bowed deeply and said, “Imperial Grandmother, rest your heart, Grandson will de initely treat Xi Wan well and not hurt her.”

The Empress Dowager nodded in satisfaction. She then turned her head and pulled Hua Xi Wan to sit next to her. Patting Hua Xi Wan’s hand, the Empress Dowager said, “It has been many years since aiija has seen such a beautiful female. Your presence is extraordinary on its own.”

Hua Xi Wan allowed the Empress Dowager to hold her hand with a smile. She said softly, “Junwang ye treats this one well, please, Imperial Grandmother, rest your heart.” The EmpressDowager seemed different than she had imagined. She had already prepared for the Empress Dowager to dislike her appearance. Now it seemed that she had overthought it.

When the Empress Dowager heard this, the smile on her face grew. “Aijia feels happy seeing that you two have a good relationship.” After she inished talking, she bestowed down a pile of objects to Hua Xi Wan, including many things that could not be bought with money.

Even though she knew that the Empress Dowager favored Xian Junwang, the Empress still felt slightly discomforted when she saw this. When the Crown Princ had married the Crown Princess, she had not seen the Empress Dowager react so warmly. There had been a large number of things that she had bestowed down, but how could those things compare to these things that the Empress Dowager collected?

Regardless of how unhappy she was, the Empress did not show any of the emotion of her face. She repeated the Empress Dowager’s words, and added two-tenths more to what she had planned on bestowing.

“If it was not that Xian Junwang fei was weak in health and never attended banquets in the palace, this palace would have liked this beautiful miss a long time ago.” The Empress said in the time that the Empress Dowager was drinking tea. “Xian Junwang is fortunate to marry such a beauty.”

“Subject-nephew accepts Empress’ good words.” Yan Jin Qiu bowed in the direction of Guang Yang Hall. “It is all due to the benevolence of the Holy One that subject-nephew is able to marry such a virtuous wife.”

The Empress spoke of Hua Xi Wan’s beauty, but Yan Jin Qiu emphasized the word “virtuous.” He also used the Emperor to de lect the Empress so that she could not object.

The Empress was a woman who had spent many years in the inner palace and naturally would not lose her composure over such words. She smiled, nodded her head, and said, “Emperor and this palace are your elders, and will naturally think for you. This palace had been worried that your wang fei has a weak constitution. Seeing her complexion today, this palace’s worries are put to rest.”

Yan Jin Qiu was a man and naturally would not engage with the Empress in verbal battle for long. He gave another word of thanks, then sat down at the side silently.

At this perfect time, Hua Xi Wan spoke, “Nephew-wife accidentally had a great illness a few years ago. Father and Mother had visited many famed doctors to save this life. Because the doctor said that nephewwife’s body needs to recover in piece, nephew-wife was unable to go outside until this year as the body recovered. It really is a regret of nephew-wife to not have seen the phoenix appearances of Empress Dowager and Empress these years due to weakness of the body. Seeing the phoenix appearances now, nephew-wife has learned that Empress

Dowager is more benevolent and noble than imagined, and Empress is even more beautiful and digni ied than imagined.”

So these words were to remove the label of being weak in constitution and to also clarify why she had not seen any people on the outside in these years?

The Empress’ eyebrow rose slightly. She smiled benevolently and said, “It is a great and fortunate matter for your body to recover. Now that you have become a member of our family, it will not be dif icult to see Empress Dowager and this palace.”

“That is true,” the Empress Dowager said with a smile, “in the future when you want to see aijia, come to the palace.” She took out and gave a pendant to Hua Xi Wan after speaking. “This is the token for Fu Kang Palace. You will not need to send in your card in order to enter the palace to see aijia. Just take this token to Fu Kang Palace.”

How could Hua Xi Wan be ignorant of the fact this was equivalent to a permit of admittance to the imperial palace? She refused three times, but in the end, under the Empress Dowager’s persistent attitude, she accepted this slightly hot potato.

She was not clear about the different camps in the inner palace but her intuition said that the Empress Dowager was not on as good terms as rumored with the Imperial Couple. This old lady might have some sincerity in treating her grandson, Yan Jin Qiu, but as to how much sincerity there was, she could not see at this time.

The Empress Dowager was unreasonable in this move. She wanted to give Yan Jin Qiu a token of admittance to the Imperial Palace, but she did it openly in front of the Empress. The Empress could not stop her and could only stare. There wasn’t any incorrectness since the Empress Dowager had given it out in front of her. If the Empress was not willing, she could speak directly. Since the Empress did not speak, it meant that she had accepted it.

But how could she speak directly and slight the Empress Dowager?

The Empress Dowager’s move was simple and crude, but it was the best way to deal with the Imperial Couple.

Hua Xi Wan rubbed the black iron token in her hand and sighed inside. A woman who did not have any children of her own but was able to stay irmly on the seat of empress who also managed to adopt two imperial sons and become the Empress Dowager in the end, how could this woman be simple?

Translator Ramblings: The Holy One is the Emperor, in case anyone was confused. One happy person out of three isn’t that bad of a percentage.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Seven The Beautiful Wang Fu.

After visiting the three great personages of the palace, the pair came out of the palace. When they got onto the carriage, Hua Xi Wan put the token in front of Yan Jin Qiu. “The Empress Dowager’s token is very valuable. It is safer for it to be in Jin Qiu’s care.”

Yan Jin Qiu looked at the token but did not reach out to take it. “The Empress Dowager likes you and naturally hopes that you will take the token and visit her. I feel safe having it in your care.”

Hua Xi Wan did not persist and put away the token with a smile. She adjusted the adornments at her waist and said wryly, “The Empress Dowager is really a friendly elder.”

“When I was young and Mother was frail, I grew up for a few years under the Empress Dowager.” Yan Jin Qiu’s smile was harmonious. “She treats everyone benevolently.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan recalled a rumor. The rumor was that Xian Wang Fei had been from a scholarly family and birthed Yan Jin Qiu’s older sister one year after marrying Xian Wang. Two years later, she became pregnant with Yan Jin Qiu. But who knew that when she was pregnant, Xian Wang got a ceshi pregnant, and half a year after Yan Jin Qiu was born, a shu son was born as well.

The outside did not know if there had been con lict between Xian Wang and Xian Wang Feidue to this matter, they only knew that after Xian Wang Fei gave birth, her health was not good. When Yan Jin Qiu was two years old, he was sent into the Imperial Palace to be reared by the Empress Dowager. Only when he was six years old and Xian Wang Fei was heavily ill did Yan Jin Qiu come out of the Imperial Palace to care for his mother. Before Xian Wang Fei died, Xian Wang asked to title Yan Jin Qiu the Heir to the Wang Fu.

Even though she didn’t know if Xian Wang Fei had felt hatred, but Hua Xi Wan felt that if a female discovered that her husband had gotten another woman pregnant during her pregnancy, she would not be unaffected.

Hua Xi Wan wanted to say that he was fortunate to be reared by the Empress Dowager, but looking at Yan Jin Qiu’s smile, she suddenly did not want to speak. The carriage quieted down. She listened to the sound of the hoofs, adjusted to a comfortable position to lean against the back of the carriage to wait for the carriage to return to the wang fu.

Yan Jin Qiu waited for a few moments and did not hear Hua Xi Wan’s voice. When he looked at her, he found that she had fallen asleep against the carriage back. Thinking back to his uncontrolled actions of last night, a small but sincere smile appeared on the corner of his mouth.

“Junwang ye, junwang fei, we have arrived at the wang fu.” Mu Tong announced from outside the carriage.

Yan Jin Qiu turned and saw that Hua Xi Wan was sleeping. Just as he was planning on reaching out to carry her, Hua Xi Wan opened her eyes.

“We’ve arrived?” Hua Xi Wan touched the hairpin in her hair and lifted the curtain to look outside the window. She slowly massaged her waist. “It is not yet time for the noon meal. Will Jin Qiu accompany me to tour the wang fu?”

“A request from a beauty cannot be refused.” Yan Jin Qiu raised the curtain and stepped out of the carriage. Then, under the gaze of everyone, he supported Hua Xi Wan’s hand. Only when she got off the carriage did he release her hand. “There are some good places in the wang fu. I’ll accompany you on the walk.”

Mu Tong saw that the two seemed to want to tour the wang fu and hurriedly told a servant to order the servants within the second door and lower to stay away so they would not coincide with Junwang fei.

Even though Yan Jin Qiu had locked some places in the wang fu which were over his rank when he succeeded the position, however, what was locked were the buildings at the edges. The attractive places were still left open.

Along the way, Hua Xi Wan saw some beautiful structures as she had expected. With Mu Tong talking along the way, it was pretty interesting. After entering the Door of Drooping Flowers, Hua Xi Wan smiled at Mu Tong saying, “No wonder Junwang ye has a high opinion of you. If I have such a clever person attending me, I will de initely use you frequently.”

“This one does not dare to accept Junwang fei’s praise. This one is just ful illing the duties of a servant.” Mu Tong respectfully made a major bow. “Anything that wang fei orders, this small one will try his best to ful ill. This one just hopes that wang fei does not distain this small one for his clumsiness and stupidity.”

“Someone who can say these words is not one who is clumsy and stupid.” Hua Xi Wan smiled. When she raised her foot to step into the Door of Drooping Flowers, her hand was held by Yan Jin Qiu. She turned her head and saw the considerate smile on the other’s face.

“Thank you.” Under the gazes of everyone behind them, Hua Xi Wan did not take her hand away and allowed Yan Jin Qiu to lead her towards the middle of the fake mountain and forests. When the two walked next to the fake mountain, they heard two young servant girls conversing and she seemed to hear the words “wang fei.”

Mu Tong was going to speak and scold them, but when he looked at Junwang fei that stopped walking, he hesitated and then stood silently at the side.

“I have seen several noble people, Sheng Junwang Fei is the most beautiful.”

“So what if she is beautiful, her status cannot rival our wang fei … …”

“You are stupid, don’t you know that our wang fei is ordinary in appearance?’ When the servant girl that spoke irst said this, she pushed her voice lower, “I heard that it is because her appearance is not good that the Emperor decreed her marriage to our Junwang.”

“Don’t speak nonsense, how can you know what the Emperor is thinking?” Hearing this, the second servant girl was frightened and even her voice started to tremble. “If Junwanghears this, what are you going to do?”

The irst servant girl felt slight regret and said uncon idently, “Junwang and Junwang Feiare not in the fu, how can they hear what we are saying, don’t frighten yourself … …” Just as she inished saying this, she saw a corner of a blue robe peeking from behind the fake mountain. When she saw who the people behind the fake mountain were, her legs softened, and she knelt down with a bang.

Hua Xi Wan looked at Yan Jin Qiu who did not show any anger and did not speak, and then at the two servant girls who were pale in fright and shaking all over. She raised an eyebrow in interest. Fearful to this degree yet dared to say these things behind people’s backs, they were really daring.

“Junwang, spare us! Junwang, spare us!”

The servant girl that had gossiped about Hua Xi Wan started to repeatedly kowtow. Moments later, blood started to come out of her forehead. But even so, this servant girl did not decrease the strength of

the kowtow and hit the ground even harder as though if she kowtowed slowly, she would not be able to keep her little life.

Looking at the slate bricks that were dyed in fresh blood, Hua Xi Wan spoke, “Alright, do not kowtow anymore.”

The servant girl whose face was covered in blood paused slightly. Even though Hua Xi Wan had spoken, she was not sure if she should keep on kowtowing and begging for her life to be spared.

“Since Junwang fei does not like bowing, do not cause Junwang fei to be unhappy.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at the blood on the stone. With a furrowed brow, he said, “You who serve in the inner compound should know best what the protocol of the wang fu is.”

The servant girl whose face was covered in blood collapsed in fear and laid facedown on the ground. Even the servant girl who had listened to her speak had an expression of hopelessness. She didn’t know where she got the courage and crawled a few steps forward. She banged her head on the ground in Hua Xi Wan’s direction. “Junwang fei, this servant has offended, please, Junwang fei, spare this life!”

Her face was full of tears from fright as she looked pleadingly in Hua Xi Wan’s direction. The next moment, she froze and could not speak any more entreaties. A moment later, she collapsed in a kneeling position on the ground and said, “This servant has offended.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at this servant girl that had been urging the other one to not gossip and coughed lightly. “Jin Qiu, I see that this servant girl knows some protocol. How about a lighter punishment for her?”

“Since Junwang fei has spoken on your behalf, then go to the Discipline Room for twenty blows. If you offend again, then you will be punished according to the crime.” Yan Jin Qiu waved his hand at Mu Tong to indicate this servant girl would be spared.

“Thank Junwang, thank Junwang fei.” This servant girl was so excited her face was full of tears and extremely disheveled.

The servant girl whose face was full of blood from kowtowing was gagged and dragged away by two taijian. As to what punishment she would endure, Hua Xi Wan did not ask, and Yan Jin Qiu did not explain.

The two seemed to forget this event, and did not mention the matter of the decree of marriage, nor the rumors on the outside about Hua Xi Wan’s appearance.

The two used the noon meal together. Even though the two had been together for less than a day, there was never a cold period when the two did not speak and they never felt that they were searching for something to say. They did not seem like the newly marriage couples that never met before the marriage, but lovers with deep emotion, every one of their actions illed with warmth.

Mu Tong who was serving the pair at the meal looked with a complicated gaze at the elegant Junwang fei. Junwangfei was probably not a wooden beauty that was empty inside.

In the afternoon, Yan Jin Qiu had matters and left the fu. Hua Xi Wan naturally went back to her room to catch up on her sleep. Last night, His Highness Xian Junwang had been slightly fast the irst time, and it might have been that he wanted to prove something to her in the next two times that she had been harassed for some time after.

When she woke up, it was in the evening. She rose and put on a comfortable cotton dress, had Hong Ying put her hair into a simple style and then indolently leaned back against the soft cushion to let the servant girls knead her shoulders.

“Has Junwang returned to the fu?” She saw the sky was gradually turning dark and just remembered that she also had a title of junwang fei. No matter what, she should ask about that juwang ye.

“Junwang has not yet returned to the fu. The people from the Meal Room had come in the afternoon. This servant had them make a few dishes according to the styles you usually prefer. Should the meal be sent for now?” Bai Xia held a cup of hawthorn, wol berry and date tea to put into Hua Xi Wan’s hand. “The kitchen should have been prepared already.”

“I’ve just woken up and do not have an appetite. Let’s speak of this later.” She lazily looked outside. The orchids were at their peak of bloom

and were exceptionally beautiful under the sunset as though a halo was put on it.

This Xian Junwang was more complex than she had imagined. She had seen clearly the terror that the two servant girls had when they faced him as though if he blinked his eyes, they and their families would die.

Sighing, she adjusted her position so she was more comfortable leaning back. “Bai Xia, what do you think of the junwang fu?”

Bai Xia said after a moment of silence. “The wang fu is very beautiful, and the servants have very good etiquette.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled. “Yes, don’t they have very good etiquette?”

Bai Xia’s lips moved. She knew that Mistress was usually intelligent, and thought farther than she did so she did not speak up.

She swept the beautiful room. Even though the wang fu appeared very beautiful, the servants were obedient and well-mannered, a place that was too regulated and beautiful would cause people to feel it was unrealistic.

This was probably the true colors of the Imperial House?

侧室: literally side room. Referring to a concubine, but one of a higher rank akin to a secondary wife.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Eight: Not As The Rumors Say

Not three days since Hua Xi Wan married into the junw.a.n.g fu, the entire fu knew that she had the affection of Junw.a.n.g Ye. There were even people that said that Junw.a.n.g Fei was as beautiful as the celestials and people who saw her would forget the mortal world. However, there didn’t seem to be many people that believed this rumor and it was felt that the person who said this was trying to endear themselves with Junw.a.n.g Fei but was not skilled. It would be better to praise the junw.a.n.g fei for a good presence and beautiful igure.

Bai Xia and the others knew the rumors in the junw.a.n.g fu. On the surface, it seemed that Junw.a.n.g and Junw.a.n.g Fei were very close, but as people who had served Junw.a.n.g Fei for many years, how could they not see that the conversation between Junw.a.n.g Fei and Junw.a.n.g was courteous yet awkward? Not to mention that Junw.a.n.g Fei did not usually mention Xian Junw.a.n.g privately, as though Junw.a.n.g Ye was just someone she was living with.

“Sister Bai Xia, did you see what was on the list?” Hong Ying walked in with a list. She saw Bai Xia was making Juw.a.n.g Fei’s socks and said as she put down the list, “Your embroidery is getting better and better. No wonder Junw.a.n.g Fei likes wearing the inner garments that you make.”

Hong Ying was not purposefully lattering Bai Xia. The hidden twin lotuses pattern embroidered on the pair of socks was extremely lifelike. If one did not look closely, the pattern was hard to detect, and if one touched it, it felt soft to the touch.

“I’m just making a few pairs in my spare time.” Bai Xia put down her needlework and put the basket to the side. After she had Hong Ying sit down, she said, “Right now, Junw.a.n.g Fei has people from the Needlework Room serving her. The embroiders of the w.a.n.g fuare skilled in Shu and Su embroidery, and there are quite a few that have skills pa.s.sed down from their ancestors. I cannot compare to them. It is just that Junw.a.n.g Fei is used to wearing the inner garments that I make and remembers old affections.”

“Why do you humble yourself so?” Hong Ying looked at the banana tree that had started to turn green outside the window. “The skills of the embroiders in the w.a.n.g fu are rare, but your care towards Junw.a.n.g Fei is something that those embroiders cannot rival.”

Bai Xia smiled upon hearing this and took the list that Hong Ying had come in with. She made a comparison and then said, “I have already performed a match with Chief Steward Mu Tong at the storeroom. There is no problem with the things on the list.”

Hong Ying nodded and released a breath. There were many good things in the storehouses of prestigious families, but because the objects had been acc.u.mulated for too long or the servants were not clean, the objects in the storeroom would not be the same as what was recorded in the inventory. Accidents like this would happen even in the marquis fu. She had not expected that the junw.a.n.g fu was managed so well without a female mistress.

“This way, no accident will happen when Junw.a.n.g Fei returns to her paternal family tomorrow morning.” New marriages were supposed to be lucky. If the gifts that were taken back to the paternal family were damaged, then it would be a mess. Hong Ying looked at the list. “Junw.a.n.g Ye has treated Junw.a.n.g Fei pretty well on the surface.”

When the new bride returned to her home, the gifts she brought back represented the respect her husband’s family held for her. If it was too little, she would feel bad, and even her paternal family might be laughed at by others.

“All right, there is no problem with the gifts.” Bai Xia sighed. The last remaining major question was if Junw.a.n.g Ye was willing to accompany Junw.a.n.g Fei back to her home. She looked at the color of the sky. “Junw.a.n.g Fei is going to wake up from the noon nap soon. Let us go over now.”

Hong Ying nodded. She also understood. The junw.a.n.g fu did not lack for these things. Whether or not Junw.a.n.g Ye was good or bad did not depend on this, but on the future.

Horses were learned after long trips, people’s hearts were learned after long times. Time was the fairest witness. Jewelry, beautiful clothing and delicious food were just the exquisite pasties on the outside. As to what the taste inside was like, no one knew until they took the last bite.

“Junw.a.n.g Fei, you have woken?”

Hua Xi Wan was sitting on the bed. Looking at the servant girls standing outside the silk canopy, she rubbed her forehead and said, “Put the curtain up.”

The silk curtain was put up by two servant girls. Hua Xi Wan washed her face in the warm water Bai Xia held. After wiping her hands clean of water, she said in a low voice, “Have the things for the return to the fu been prepared?”

Bai Xia handed the dirty water that had been used to a junior servant girl behind her. She helped Hua Xi Wan sit down before the mirror. “The things for the visit to the paternal home have been prepared.”

The hand Hua Xi Wan was using to select jade bangles stilled. She then showed a sliver of a smile. “En, that is good.” Bai Xia was right; tomorrow, she was not returning to the fuwhen she went to Xi’an Marquis Fu, but to visit her paternal home.”

“Pick a loose set of clothing for me.” Hua Xi Wan picked out several hairpins and put her hair in a simple hairstyle. She was indolent in this life, but after lazing about these few days, she needed to exercise her body. For example, do a few exercises of female self-defense.

The females of n.o.ble and prestigious families in this dynasty preferred poem conferences, polo and admiring lowers. She was too lazy to go out the door, so only exercise where she would be at her original spot suited her.

When Mu Tong hurried into the main yard, he saw Junw.a.n.g Fei standing in the yard. There were many servant girls standing around her. Before he could bow to Junw.a.n.g Fei, he saw Junw.a.n.g Fei easily lip over a solid carved wooden chair. The presence she had made his legs soften.

The rumors said that Yi’An Marquis’ wife was the daughter of a martial family. The rumors also said that Yi’an Marquis had not taken a concubine in more than two decades because the wife of Yi’An Marquis was valiant in her conduct. Could Yi’an Marquis defeat her in combat? The rumors said that when Yi’an Marquis had gone to request marriage, he had been threatened by all the people from the General Fu.

Even though these rumors were a mix of truth and falsehood, there was one point that was certain. The women of Yi’an Marquis Fu were all powerful and valiant woman. Their junw.a.n.g fei… most likely inherited well from her mother?

A scene of Juw.a.n.g Ye beaten down to the ground by Junw.a.n.g Fei appeared in his mind. Mu Tong rubbed the corner of his mouth and made the smile on his face appear more sincere. “This small one greets Junw.a.n.g Fei. Junw.a.n.g Ye encountered His Highness the Crown Prince in the palace. His Highness the Crown Prince has stayed Junw.a.n.g Ye for the evening meal so he had this small one report to you.”

“I know.” After two repet.i.tions of the routine, Hua Xi Wan slowly cooled down. After slowly exhaling, she took the handkerchief that Hong Ying handed her to wipe the ine sweat on her forehead. “Did Junw.a.n.g Ye have anything else he wanted to let you tell me?”

Mu Tong shook his head. “Junw.a.n.g Ye just said for you to rest early.”

So… he had his personal taijian make this trip to tell her he was not coming back to the futo eat?

Such considerate actions that were so moving did not move Hua Xi Wan at all. She examined Mu Tong from head to toe. This person had long legs and was thin. Was this a result of running about?

As Junw.a.n.g Fei had not spoken, Mu Tong did not dare to go. Detecting that Junw.a.n.g Feiwas examining him, Mu Tong made it so his standing posture was more respectful.

“Thanks to Mu gonggong for running this trip.” Hua Xi Wan felt her hair was becoming loose and took down the hairpins. As she recoiled her hair, she said, “Bai Xia, see Mu gonggong out.”

“This one doesn’t dare to trouble Miss Bai Xia.” Mu Tong raised his head to see Junw.a.n.g Fei coiling her hair and hurriedly pushed his head back down. After retreating out of the main rooms, he released a long breath.

People that looked beautiful were beautiful no matter what they were doing. Even the action of coiling one’s hair was full of elegance, but the movements were just slightly valiant.

The di daughter of Xi’an Marquis Fu that was rumored to be of few words, low self-esteem and no beauty, why did she become someone that didn’t have anything in common with the rumors?

Thinking carefully, Mu Tong found that there were still commonalities, for example… the gender?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Glossary

郡王妃 junw.a.n.g fei: the of icial wife of a junw.a.n.g 郡王 junw.a.n.g: prince (of the second rank); also referred to as junw.a.n.g ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness” 府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)w.a.n.g fu: prince’s estate/compound 太太 taitai: married woman, madam ⽒ s.h.i.+: clan/maiden name; used to refer to a woman’s original surname before marrying into another family 夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady; usually refers to the legitimate wife

Chapter Nine: True Self

No light came into the dark and secret room. The person lying on the ground did not have one piece of unharmed skin. Hair was tucked together and fell beside a face with protruding and wide eyes. He looked like a ghost that came from h.e.l.l, and gave people a frightening feeling.

In this room covered in dirty water, there was a person that was idly sitting and drinking tea. That hand that was manicured perfectly slowly raised a white jade teacup to the lips. After a light sip, there was a perfect smile on the corner of the lips. “Good tea.”

Putting down the teacup, he licked his snow-white sleeves and slowly walked towards the man that was lying on the ground, as though he did not care at all about the unclean water dirtying his white outer robe.

“I’ve long heard that Master Zhang is a hard bone to crack. Today, I have seen it is so.” The white and clean hand grabbed the hair of the person on the ground, pulling it back until he was forced to raise his head with dif iculty. No matter how unwilling he was, he could only groan as the other held him like this, unable to even swear.

Perhaps it was because the hair in his hand was too dirty that the man in the white robe released the hair in his hand and allowed this Master Zhang’s face to smash into the dirty water. Two dirty water droplets splashed onto his silvery-white brocade shoes.

In a lash, someone walked out of the dark corner and presented a white cotton handkerchief. The man then bent down to wipe the two dirty drops off his shoes.

He used the cotton cloth to wipe his hand and then threw the cloth next to Master Zhang. He said in a sedate tone, “But I do not like people who are hard bones, especially ones that have been sent to a.s.sa.s.sinate me.” He raised a foot and stepped on Master Zhang’s head, causing the other’s entire face to be pressed to the ground. His tone became dark. “Since your bones are so hard, then stay hard for me. Do not cry and beg when the time comes.”

He took off his foot and turned to walk out of the room with his hands behind his back. When the door to the secret room was opened, the light outside the door penetrated in. He said with mirth in his tone, “You all, continue to serve Master Zhang well; do not let Master Zhang pa.s.s.”

The door to the secret room closed again and the room became dark. Master Zhang closed his eyes in hopelessness and roared hoa.r.s.ely. But he, whose tongue had been cut off, was fated to never speak another word in his life.

“You say that Junw.a.n.g Fei is practicing martial arts in the yard?” Yan Jin Qiu adjusted his robe as he faced the copper mirror. After he inished hearing Mu Tong’s report, he raised an eyebrow and said smilingly, “Junw.a.n.g Fei is really a daughter of a descendant of generals. It is good to practice martial arts to strengthen the body.”

Mu Tong used a cloth to carefully wipe Yan Jin Qiu’s slightly damp hair. He said, “Junw.a.n.g Ye is right; these years Junw.a.n.g Fei was unable to go out to ride or to ascend any mountains to sightsee due to her weak health. Practicing martial arts is a good way to exercise the body.”

When Yan Jin Qiu heard this, he curved his lips but did not speak. Seeing this, Mu Tong did not dare to speak more, and dried Yan Jin Qiu’s hair with even more care.

In the main room of the main compound in the junw.a.n.g fu, Hua Xi Wan’s hair was loose after her bath. She was half-reclined on the couch as she lipped through a ghost story that was very popular at the moment. Lu Zhu used silver toothpicks to deliver precut fruit to her mouth. Zi Shan was sitting on a little stool and using a small sandalwood mallet to ma.s.sage her legs. Expensive silk incense was burning in the room. It was a luxurious and indolent scene, but because the person enjoying it was a beauty, it became a scene of beauty.

Bai Xia came up and helped Hua Xi Wan adjust the cus.h.i.+on behind her back so she could recline more comfortably. “Junw.a.n.g Fei, Junw.a.n.g Ye is going to come soon. Do we need to help you dress?”

“Dress?” Hua Xi Wan pulled her attention away from the ghost story. She raised a hand and brushed the hair next to her face, and lethargically covered her mouth as she yawned. “I’m too lazy to bother, this is good.”

Bai Xi looked at the white plum silk dress she was wearing and her feet that peeked out under the dress. She retreated to the side and did not speak more.

After reading the entire ghost story, Hua Xi Wan was inally willing to move. She put on her shoes and got off the couch. Looking at the sky that was dark outside the window, she said to Lu Zhu, “Go to the Meal Room to get the food.”

“Junw.a.n.g Fei, are you not waiting for Junw.a.n.g Ye?” Lu Zhu asked upon hearing this. “Junw.a.n.g Ye said he was coming tonight.”

“No matter, go prepare.” Hua Xi Wan waved her hand. “If he has not come over yet, he must already have eaten at the Crown Prince’s palace.” Previously, someone had come to say that the Crown Prince was keeping him, and then someone now said that he was coming back soon. Who knew if he was returning or not? If she waited, she wouldn’t get to eat tonight.

Lu Zhu bowed and then left. These years, they had become familiar with Junw.a.n.g Fei’s personality. They knew that she was often too lazy to speak. As servant girls, they should not bother their mistress.

Yan Jin Qiu might have been tracking the time to step into the main rooms. The moment the dishes were put on the table, he arrived.

Hua Xi Wan glanced at him. This person was still dressed like an elegant gentleman. The purple soft brocade robes would make one look like a fop, but on him, this became n.o.bility.

This ruthless world where everything depended on one’s face.

Hua Xi Wan took her gaze away, was.h.i.+ng her hands as she said, “Jin Qiu has returned at the perfect time. Come sit and eat.”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu sat down next to Hua Xi Wan and put his hands into the copper basin she had been was.h.i.+ng her hands in. He said with a smile, “There’s no need to get another basin of water, this is all right.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at the lower petals that were swaying due to the movement of their hands as they cleaned, and silently took her hands out of the basin. After wiping the water off, she said, “Is there some matter in these two days? I see that you have not been in the fu.”

“Something did happen, but it has been taken care of. Tomorrow, I will accompany you to Mt Tai’s home to play for the day. When it is ive in the afternoon, we will return to the fu.” Yan Jin Qiu wiped his hands and said apologetically, “I had wanted to accompany you these last three days, but some things suddenly came up.”

“Since there is a reason, Jin Qiu does not have to be like this. At most, accompany me more in the future.” Hua Xi Wan smiled unconcernedly, picked up the chopsticks and did not speak further.

In this year, the females must leave their paternal family on their irst visit after the marriage before sunset. Otherwise, it would be considered inauspicious. Yan Jin Qiu said that he would accompany her to stay until ive on the visit. Even though it was not the time of sunset, it was not far off. It was rare that the other was able to do this, even though she did not know if it was an act or in sincerity.

After the two used the evening meal, the servants served them in cleaning before retreating out the door and leaving a few people behind to guard during the night.

The shadows in front of the window slowly swayed, and the two shadows gradually merged into one. Then the candle ire in the room went out and the entire room darkened.

In the morning when Hua Xi Wan woke up, the sky had already turned light. Because today was an important day, the day she made a visit

back to her family, she rolled around a few times on the bed and got up. Among the rows of clothing, she picked a bright red loor-length dress with wide sleeves just because the color of the lowers embroidered on the dress was very beautiful.

When a daughter that had married returned to visit, the parents would worry how her days were and look at her attire, complexion, speech, as well as the att.i.tude of the son-in-law. Even though she was not their true daughter, the sincere feelings that Yi’an Marquis Fu treated her with deserved her own sincere feelings to treat them back.

Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Xi Wan sitting before the mirror and carefully dressing herself in a reversal of her att.i.tude in the past two days, and suddenly thought of something his mother had said to him in childhood.

Never underestimate women, no matter how virtuous, gentle and harmless they usually were.

Maybe it was because Mother had been heavily ill when she had said this, he remembered these words clearly—perhaps because he had wanted to remember every bit of his mother, or because he had not understood the meaning of the words when he was young. He had unconsciously imprinted the words in his mind.

No matter what the reason was, he remembered the words clearly up until now, even the expression of his mother, rueful yet pleased.

After Hua Xi Wan inished dressing, Yan Jin Qiu found that the jewelry that she wore included only things that he had prepared for her after she entered the w.a.n.g fu. Not one item was from the dowry she had brought from Yi’an Marquis Fu.

He understood why Hua Xi Wan had done so after a slight bit of thought. Standing, he walked next to Hua Xi Wan and picked out a mutton-jade pendant carved out in the shape of a ish to put around Hua Xi Wan’s neck. “This jade pendant is complementary to your dress.”

Hua Xi Wan caressed the ine-feeling jade and saw the smiling face of Yan Jin Qiu in the copper mirror. She ignored the hands on her shoulders, smiled faintly and said, “It is pretty complementary.”

In Yi’an Marquis Fu, the old taitai, Main Branch’s Hua He Shen and Lu s.h.i.+, Second Branch’s Hua Zhi Ming and Zhang s.h.i.+, Third Branch’s Hua Zhi Xun and Yao s.h.i.+ were all waiting in the front hall. If the person who Hua Xi Wan had married was not of the Imperial House, then there would not be so many people waiting in the marquis fu. But right now, she was a junw.a.n.g fei. The Hua Family, as the paternal family, needed to all be present whether they were there to support Hua Xi Wan or to give Xian Junw.a.n.g face.

The three brothers were present and harmonious on the surface. But only they knew what they were thinking.

Hua Zhi Ming and Hua He Sheng were full-blood brothers, and he naturally hoped that Hua Xi Wan would marry well. So when he came to

the marquis fu, he would occasionally look towards the door of the hall. Compared to his worry, Hua Zhi Xun appeared calmer and only sipped tea idly from beginning to end.

Lu s.h.i.+ had gotten up early and dressed quickly to hurry to the front hall. Her heart was jumping up and down, and she did not have the mind to spare to eat, much less to think about what her two sisters-inlaw were thinking.

Just as Lu s.h.i.+ became more fretful, a servant girl ran in and said with a joyous expression, “Old Taitai, Marquis, Furen, Junw.a.n.g Ye and Junw.a.n.g Fei have arrived.”

Lu s.h.i.+ was overjoyed at hearing this and stood up from the chair. She walked in large strides towards the door of the hall and saw a group of servant girls and women ushering her grandly-dressed daughter towards her. Beside her daughter was Xian Junw.a.n.g that was outstanding in appearance.

Yao s.h.i.+ supported the old taitai to the doorway and twisted her mouth when she saw Xian Junw.a.n.g considerately accompanying Hua Xi Wan. She was just relying on her beauty and freshness—how long could she stay this way?

The old taitai saw her action and reached out to pinch her. She then went forward. “This old one greets Xian Junw.a.n.g.”

After she married the old marquis, the old marquis had never sent up a request for her to receive a t.i.tle. So after the old marquis pa.s.sed away, she was in an awkward state and did not like to go out, but she did not forget the etiquette she should observe.

This Xian Junw.a.n.g was the son-in-law of the Yi’an Marquis Fu in name, but more than that, he was a junw.a.n.g of the Imperial House. In front of imperial privilege, nothing took precedence.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ten: Return to the Paternal Home

“Old Taitai, there is no need to be so courteous.” Xian Junw.a.n.g reached out a hand to falsely hold her up, refused Yi’an Marquis’ request to sit at the front, and made a bow of a junior towards Yi’an Marquis and Lu s.h.i.+. Then he sat down on the irst chair on the left.

Lu s.h.i.+’s attention had turned to her daughter early on, and she saw that her complexion was good and all her jewelry was items that the junw.a.n.g fu had prepared for her. She knew that Xian Junw.a.n.g was taking great care of her, and it eased some of her worry.

Hua Xi Wan bowed towards the elders in the family, and the elders made a half-bow back. Looking at her parents half-bowing back to her, she felt extremely uncomfortable. She went forward to grip Lu s.h.i.+’s hand and suppressed the soreness she felt in her nose. “Father, Mother, what are you doing?”

As her mother, Lu s.h.i.+ could not bear for Hua Xi Wan to be unhappy, and stood up with Hua Xi Wan’s grip. She pulled Hua Xi Wan to sit next to her and turned to see that Xian Junw.a.n.g was talking with her husband. She smiled and said, “You men talk, and us women will not crowd with you. We’ll go chat inside.”

Yan Jin Qiu turned and saw Lu s.h.i.+ and Hua Xi Wan’s hands together. He naturally would not object. Yi’an Marquis knew his wife missed his daughter greatly and that mother and daughter would have private things to say, so he allowed them to go.

After the old taitai and the women all went inside the compound, Yi’an Marquis said with a smile, “This lowly of icial has heard that Xian Junw.a.n.g is skilled in poetry, and is very interested as well. Junw.a.n.g, please guide this lowly of icial.”

“Mount Tai[i] is too serious; this son-in-law just knows a spa.r.s.e amount,” Yan Jin Qiu said humbly. “If Mount Tai does not look down, this son-in-law is willing to admire poetry with you.”

“Junw.a.n.g Ye should not be modest.” Yi’an Marquis’ smile did not change. He stood up and said, “Why don’t we go to the study and talk.”

“Mount Tai, please.” Even though he could not see anything from Yi’an Marquis’ face, Yan Jin Qiu found that this Yi’an Marquis was more cunning than the rumors said, and much calmer.

As Lu s.h.i.+ and Hua Xi Wan entered the inner compound, Lu s.h.i.+ impatiently asked, “Xi Wan, how is Xian Junw.a.n.g—is he good to you?”

通房 tongfang: literally “pa.s.sing through the room”; the lowest rank in concubine. Usually of low birth, likely former servants.

Looking at her mother’s restless state, Hua Xi Wan reached to push her mother’s hairpin back into her hair and supported her to sit down. “The junw.a.n.g fu has very good protocol. Junw.a.n.g does not have any

j g yg p g y tongfang[2] or s.h.i.+qie[3] and is very considerate towards me. Mother, do not worry too much for me. The season is s.h.i.+fting from spring to summer, and the weather changes quickly. You and Father need to pay more attention to your health.”

侍妾 s.h.i.+qie: concubines lower in rank than ces.h.i.+ (i.e. “secondary wife”), but higher than tongfang

“There are so many servants in the fu, I won’t freeze or starve.” Lu s.h.i.+carelessly waved a hand. When she heard that the junw.a.n.g fu did not have any tongfang or s.h.i.+qie, her mood had improved. She turned back and saw the old taitai and her second sister-in-law, Zhang s.h.i.+, and third sister-in-law, Yao s.h.i.+. She said in a low tone by Hua Xi Wan’s ear, “Some matter has occurred to your second aunt’s family. Do not talk too much to her later.”

Today was a good day, the day her daughter returned to visit. She didn’t want to ruin the mood. They could call her sel ish or void of fraternal feeling, but in her heart, her sons and daughter were always in irst place. Moreover, while her family was close to Second Uncle’s family, it did not mean that she had to treat her second sister-in-law well. These years, her sister-in-law had relied on the fact that she came from a famed family, the Zhang Clan, and postured before the Hua Family. Even though it had not occurred directly in front of her, she knew that there was talking going on behind her.

Each family had their own troubles. Hua Xi Wan nodded and did not ask. When the old taitai and the others came in, she sipped tea from a teacup.

The old taitai and the others saw Hua Xi Wan in grand clothing, and all of them felt something different. The old taitai was sincerely happy for Hua Xi Wan. Looking at Xian Junw.a.n.g’s att.i.tude, it seemed that he felt something towards Third Girl.

Yao s.h.i.+ was slightly jealous, but due to Hua Xi Wan’s present status, she went forward and said a few complimentary words. Seeing Hua Xi Wan remain mostly stoic, she did not feel awkward. All of the Hua Fu knew that the third miss of the Hua Fu was not a talkative person.

“Second Aunt, what is this?” If Yao s.h.i.+ felt envious and jealous towards Lu s.h.i.+, then she only felt dislike towards Zhang s.h.i.+. She saw that Zhang s.h.i.+’s complexion had not been good these past days and was happy to laugh at the other woman. “Are you not in a good mood?”

Not having a good mood on the day that the junw.a.n.g fei was visiting her paternal home, wasn’t that shade against Junw.a.n.g Fei?

Zhang s.h.i.+ was not stupid and naturally understood what Yao s.h.i.+ was implying. She forced out a small smile and said, “Many thanks to Third Sister-in-law for the concern. Just slight discomfort of the body, nothing major.”

Yao s.h.i.+ chuckled and swept Zhang s.h.i.+ with a strange glance before turning away.

As though she did not detect Yao s.h.i.+’s gaze on her, Zhang s.h.i.+ smiled at Hua Xi Wan and said, “Junw.a.n.g Fei’s red dress is very beautiful. From this embroidery, it looks as though it is from the palace? Look, the cranes on the dress seem alive.”

“Really?” Hua Xi Wan lowered her head to look at the patterns on the dress. She said faintly, “Second Aunt really is knowledgeable. I just saw it was pretty to look at. I didn’t know there was so much involved.”

Zhang s.h.i.+’s smile became even warmer. “You are young and won’t be interested in these things. It is normal to not know.” She usually did not like to latter the members of the Hua Family, but her Zhang Family now had a matter. If Xian Junw.a.n.g was willing to help, there would be more hope.

But after Zhang s.h.i.+ inished speaking, Hua Xi Wan only smiled but did not continue to speak. She was blind to Zhang s.h.i.+’s entreaty.

When Yao s.h.i.+ saw this, she disdainfully curled her lips. She had thought the other was a very n.o.ble person, but when something happened, her spine bent faster than anyone else.

The old taitai and Lu s.h.i.+ did not seem to see this and started to chat about the women of Jing. As to whether they were just accidentally mentioning people or intentionally telling Hua Xi Wan some things, it depended on the person’s perspective.

When it was noon and time to eat, the group came back to the meal hall at the front of the compound. At this time, Hua Xi Wan’s two brothers as well as Second Master Hua and Third Master Hua were present.

After everyone politely exchanged bows, Yan Jin Qiu sat down on the second seat. The one sitting at the front was the old taitai. The old taitai did not have any habit of having her daughter-in-laws serve her at the meal, so the entire family sat and washed their hands at the table as they waited for the dishes to be brought to the table.

The marquis fu was not as ceremonial as the junw.a.n.g fu, but they did not lack the necessary motions and protocol. Hua Xi Wan used the public chopsticks to place some of the vegetables that Lu s.h.i.+ liked into her bowl. Seeing Lu s.h.i.+ eat all of it, Hua Xi Wan’s heart felt sweet and sour, and unspeakably uncomfortable.

From the moment she left the doors of the marquis fu in her wedding robes, she was fated to be unable to stay beside her parents and care for them. Yet her parents would think of her every day. She really did not feel good.

When they inished eating and returned to the inner compound, the other two misses of Hua Fu appeared. Eldest Miss Hua Yi Liu was the eldest daughter of Second Master Hua, and had become engaged to Zhou Yun Heng, the son of a.s.sistant Minister Zhou, when she turned ifteen. However, the old Zhou Furen had pa.s.sed away, and Zhou Yun Heng needed to mourn for three years. He would only come out of mourning next month, so the wedding had been dragged on.

Second Miss Hua Chu Yu was the di daughter of Third Master Hua. She was outstanding in appearance and talented, and a girl that was extremely considerate and understanding. Hua Xi Wan had an average opinion of her parents but she admired Hua Chu Yu. However, her mother didn’t think the same. It was probably because in a winter a few years ago, Hua Chu Yu had fallen into the water, and Hua Xi Wan also fell in when she tried to save Hua Chu Yu, and ended up having a great illness.

Hua Yi Liu and Hua Chu Yu did not see Xian Junw.a.n.g in the morning because they were unmarried. Now that the two saw Hua Xi Wan dressed up in her clothing, they came over with smiles.

“Meimei, is everyone all right?” Hua Yi Liu examined Hua Xi Wan and then said with a smile, “It seems that you are living well in the junw.a.n.g fu.” She had heard the news that Xian Junw.a.n.g had accompanied Third Sister on her visit back. She had felt that her servant girl was exaggerating, but seeing what Hua Xi Wan was wearing now, she felt that the rumors were true and did not measure up to the full truth.

When Hua Yi Liu clasped Hua Xi Wan’s hand, Hua Chu Yu moved a few steps to the side. She listened to Hua Yi Liu’s straightforward yet respectful words and turned back to look at her mother Yao s.h.i.+. The other was fawning over the old taitai, so she only smiled at Hua Xi Wan and stood silently behind Yao s.h.i.+.

Hua Xi Wan returned a smile to Hua Chu Yu and responded absentmindedly to Hua Yi Liu. Then she sat on the chair silently. Usually at this time of the day, she would be having her noon nap.

[i] Mount Tai is another term that means father-in-law, the same as yue fu ( ) which is “highest mountain father.” In the Tang Dynasty when Emperor Xuanzong was having his coronation, he had the Prime Minister act as the one in charge of the ceremony. The coronation ceremony was traditionally held at Mount Tai. According to tradition, other than the three dukes, everyone else at the coronation would be promoted three grades. However, the Prime Minister’s son-in-law was promoted four grades, from ninth to ifth grade. When the Emperor saw him at the banquet, he asked the son-in-law how he was promoted so quickly. One of the palace actors was quick to respond when the son-inlaw couldn’t and said this was the power of Mount Tai. Rather than Mount Tai’s ceremony being the cause of the son-in-law’s promotion, it was “Mount Tai” his father-in-law, the Prime Minister.

岳⽗

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Glossary

府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)w.a.n.g fu: prince’s estate/compound ⽒ s.h.i.+: clan/maiden name 郡王妃 junw.a.n.g fei: the of icial wife of a junw.a.n.g 郡王 junw.a.n.g: prince (of the second rank) 太太 taitai: married woman, madam 郡王爷 junw.a.n.g ye, 王爷 w.a.n.g ye: His [Your] Royal Highness

Chapter Eleven: The Omnipresent Rumors

Ever since she saw Hua Xi Wan, Hua Yi Liu was slightly inattentive. She looked at her mother who was looking meaningfully at her. She hesitated and then forced a smile. She said, “Something has happened to my maternal grandfather’s family recently. Seeing you live well, I have something to be happy about.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan’s hand which held her teacup stilled. Then she smiled and said, “My days in the junw.a.n.g fu are very good. Eldest Sister, you do not need to worry.” She slowly took a sip of tea and the smile on her face did not change.

“That’s good.” Not having received the proper response, Hua Yi Liu’s smile became even more awkward. She turned and coincidentally found that Hua Chu Yu was looking at her. She felt her face lush. She was angered that Hua Xi Wan was not receptive and disliked Hua Chu Yu’s

gaze that seemed to be omniscient. She was angry for a long while, and only when Zhang s.h.i.+ started to speak did she recover.

“Junw.a.n.g Fei, these words should not be said today, but I really do not have any other resource.” Zhang s.h.i.+ saw that Hua Xi Wan did not understand what was implied, and since her daughter had a thin face, she couldn’t resist speaking directly. “My parents only got this one son when they were close to middle age. Even though they have spoiled this idiotic brother in the past, they did not raise him to be a wastrel, and he is extremely hard-working. A few days ago, this idiot brother disappeared. My parents have searched through all of Jing but have not found him. Even the government was noti ied, but there has still not been any news. I heard that His Highness Xian Junw.a.n.g has many friends. Please help say a few words for us in front of His Highness Xian Junw.a.n.g, and have him help my Zhang Family.”

“Nonsense!” the old taitai shouted. “Xian Junw.a.n.g is not part of the government of ices. Where would he go to help you search? Shut up now!” This Zhang s.h.i.+ was really dislikeable. She did not use her brains before she spoke. What was “Xian Junw.a.n.g has many friends”? Did she imply that Xian Junw.a.n.g was allying with some people in Jing?

Zhang s.h.i.+ also realized that her words were not appropriate, but after the old taitaishouted at her, she was unable to let it go. Her expression changed and she stared pitifully at Hua Xi Wan, saying, “Junw.a.n.g Fei, this subject-wife has misspoken. Please forgive me.”

“Second Aunt, what are you saying. We are one family—there is no forgiveness to be spoken of.” Hua Xi Wan put down the teacup. Looking

at the weather outside, she stood. “The time is not early. I should be returning to the junw.a.n.g fu.”

Zhang s.h.i.+ saw Hua Xi Wan had no intentions of helping and said urgently, “Third Niece…”

“Second Sister-in-law, if you have some secrets to share, you can remain and tell us sisters. The time is late. If Junw.a.n.g Fei stays too long here and is late to return to the junw.a.n.g fu,that would not be good.” Lu s.h.i.+ walked in front of Zhang s.h.i.+ and smiled insincerely as she gripped Zhang s.h.i.+’s wrist. “Don’t you think so, Second Sister-in-law?”

Zhang s.h.i.+’s expression was white as Lu s.h.i.+ held her wrist in a painful grip. She was unwilling, but she did not dare to oppose Lu s.h.i.+. She could only close her mouth with an ugly expression.

Seeing the other was wise enough to stop speaking, Lu s.h.i.+ turned and looked reluctantly at Hua Xi Wan a few times. She smiled and went forward to neaten Hua Xi Wan’s clothes, saying, “Live well, do not neglect yourself.”

“Daughter knows, don’t worry.” Hua Xi Wan clasped Lu s.h.i.+’s hand, then stepped back and made a deep curtsey to Lu s.h.i.+ before turning and leaving with Bai Xia and the other servant girls.

She knew that Lu s.h.i.+ and the other women would follow her to see her off, but she did not want to turn her head and see Lu s.h.i.+’s eyes

illed with yearning.

Lu s.h.i.+ and the group sent Hua Xi Wan off to the Door of Drooping Flowers and then stopped. Xian Junw.a.n.g was standing right outside the Door of Drooping Flowers.

Hua Xi Wan couldn’t resist turning her head to look at Lu s.h.i.+, smiling at her mother before picking up the corner of her dress and walking out through the Door of Drooping Flowers.

Hearing the steps coming from behind him, Yan Jin Qiu—who had been standing with his back towards the Door of Drooping Flowers—turned around. Seeing Hua Xi Wan walk over, he walked forward a few steps. After raising his folded hands towards the Door of Drooping Flowers in a bow, he held Hua Xi Wan’s hand and said with a bowed head, “If you miss your family in the future, I will accompany you to visit them.”

“Many thanks.” Hua Xi Wan turned and smiled brightly at Yan Jin Qiu before allowing him to help her into the soft sedan. As the curtain was let down, the smile on her face gradually disappeared.

“Rise!”

As Mu Tong gave the order, the sedan moved away from the Door of Drooping Flowers. Lu s.h.i.+ only stopped watching when it had disappeared. She turned and looked at Zhang s.h.i.+, saying with a cold

smile, “If Second Sister-in-law has matters at home, return early. I will not keep you.”

Zhang s.h.i.+ saw Lu s.h.i.+’s disrespect and was instantly enraged. “Sister-in-law is the mother-in-law of the junw.a.n.g and is very busy. Insigni icant people like me will not bother you any longer!” Turning to Hua Yi Liu, she said, “What are you standing here for, to irritate people?” Finis.h.i.+ng, she turned and strode away angrily.

Hua Yi Liu bowed towards the elders present and then followed hurriedly with her head down. In Hua Chu Yu’s eyes, this conduct looked as though she was leeing in panic.

On the way home, Yao s.h.i.+ was in a good mood and said to Hua Chu Yu, “Chu Yu, you have to remember, women do not have to be beautiful, but they cannot be without any edges. Men would tire of the most beautiful woman who is timid and turn to ind other women in search of stimulation.”

Hua Chu Yu knew that Mother was talking about Hua Yi Liu. She nodded silently. Picking up a corner of the window curtain, she thought absentmindedly, if a woman’s personality was to attract the attention of a man, then would it still be her personality?

For some reason, she suddenly thought of Hua Xi Wan that seemed indolent at any time and felt slight admiration. If she could be as casual as Hua Xi Wan, did the favor of a man matter?

Many young masters from prestigious families and n.o.ble misses were exceptionally attentive for news about Xian Junw.a.n.g and his wife, especially the females that were unable to reconcile themselves to the marriage. So when they learned that Xian Junw.a.n.g had accompanied Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei to visit her paternal family and only left at ive, the news quickly spread through Jing and surprised many people.

Xian Junw.a.n.g accompanying Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei to her paternal home would be called respectful and generous, but if he stayed with her until ive in the afternoon before leaving, that wasn’t something that could be explained by generosity. Was it that… Xian Junw.a.n.g and Junw.a.n.g Fei were in love?

The n.o.ble misses in Jing could not believe this, and even those young masters of the prestigious families did not believe that Xian Junw.a.n.g was in love with a woman without beauty. The conclusion they reached after thinking it over repeatedly was that Xian Junw.a.n.g was one of those kind people encountered once in a hundred years, and that Yi’an Marquis Fu had found a good son-in-law.

Hua s.h.i.+ de initely had committed countless acts of goodness in her past life in order to be married to such an outstanding and good man like Xian Junw.a.n.g in this life.

Hua Xi Wan that was rumored to have done countless acts of goodness in her last life didn’t have any interest in these rumors on the outside. There were no concubines in the junw.a.n.g fu and the servants were orderly, so as the junw.a.n.g fei, other than admiring the scenery, reading and sleeping, she had nothing to do.

Fortunately, she had a lazy and inactive personality. In the last fortnight, she had read almost twelve legends and stories, tasted many of the trademark dishes from the chefs, and had extremely easy-going days. She didn’t have any interest in going out to play.

So when Mu Tong came and told her that there would be a banquet held at the Imperial Palace in two days, she was too lazy to even lift her eyes. After Mu Tong explained the importance of the palace banquet, she moved her attention away from the book. “The Imperial One’s banquet?”

“Yes, the Emperor ordered that, since it is not a jubilee, there is no need to have a large celebration. There will only be family banquets held in Zhaoyang Hall for the people of the Imperial House to come together to celebrate.” Mu Tong saw that Junw.a.n.g Fei’s expression was calm and that she did not seem very interested in the palace banquet, so he added, “Junw.a.n.g Ye has said that the birthday present has been prepared two months ago, so Junw.a.n.g Fei does not need to prepare anything.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan nodded and put down the book in her hand. She ate a piece of pear off Hong Ying’s hands, her chin propped on one of her hands as she said, “Tell w.a.n.g Ye that I know.”

Mu Tong saw Junw.a.n.g Fei pick up the book she had thrown to the side, so he bowed and retreated. When he left the main yard, he released a breath. For some reason, every time he spoke in front of

Junw.a.n.g Fei, he felt he needed to be very careful, probably because… he had seen Junw.a.n.g Fei’s valiance as she lipped that wood chair?

“Since these people are not willing to speak, then there is no need for them to speak.” Yan Jin Qiu threw the slightly wrinkled confessions to the ground. Wiping his hands with a handkerchief, he said, “There are only those few that want me dead. I have no interest in knowing who is the mastermind. Do not be quick when you send them off, otherwise they will not understand that death is better than life.”

“Yes.” The person kneeling on the ground picked up the confessions on the ground. After a moment of hesitation, he said, “These people are related to the Zhang Family. Yi’an Marquis’ younger brother’s wife comes from the Zhang Family. This subordinate is worried that Yi’an Marquis Fu is connected to this matter.”

“What do you think Hua He Sheng is?” Yan Jin Qiu smirked coldly. “That old fox will not dabble in a matter like this. Most likely the Zhang Family is ignorant as well.” This Master Zhang was a good dog of the Crown Prince. His master didn’t dare to act, and the dog already came to bite.

The person kneeling on the ground didn’t dare to make a sound and buried his head lower.

“Junw.a.n.g Ye.” Mu Tong’s voice sounded from outside the door, and then he entered after a few moments. He did not look at the person kneeling on the ground. “This one has told Junw.a.n.g Fei about the palace banquet.”

“Oh?” Yan Jin Qiu threw the handkerchief on the desk. With a raised brow, he asked, “What did Junw.a.n.g Fei say?”

“Junw.a.n.g Fei said that she knows.” After Mu Tong said this, his neck s.h.i.+fted awkwardly.

“En.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at the sky, “What is Junw.a.n.g Fei reading now?”

“This one does not know what Junw.a.n.g Fei is reading, but at the time, Junw.a.n.g Feiwas holding a book in her hand.” Mu Tong had originally thought that Junw.a.n.g Feiwould take over the management of the household after marrying in. But in this fortnight, he hadn’t seen her have any interest in the fu or even establish her authority in front of the servants. Mu Tong did not understand her course of action. What mistress of the house was not interested in being in charge of the inner compound?

“Since Junw.a.n.g Fei likes reading these things, get the people in the bookstores to gather more of the books Junw.a.n.g Fei likes to read,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a calm expression. “Do not have Junw.a.n.g Fei lack for books that are to her taste.”

“This one will remember.” Mu Tong retreated. Going out the door, he carefully closed it.

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Chapter Twelve: Breathtaking

“Junzhu, be careful of your step.” Min Huai stepped off the carriage with the help of a servant girl. Hearing the reminder from the servant girl, she stopped and looked at the outside of the palace.

“Junzhu, Princess Rui He’s carriage is up front,” the servant holding her hand reminded in a light voice.

Pressing her lips together as she took her gaze away, Min Huai Junzhu forced a smile. She picked up her skirts and walked in the direction of Princess Rui He. When she was three paces away from the princess, she curtsied. “Greetings to Princess.”

“We are sisters, why be so courteous?” After Min Hua inished bowing, Princess Rui He came forward and clasped Min Huai Junzhu’s hand. She swept a gaze around and her brow furrowed slightly. “Where is Aunt?”

Min Huai Junzhu’s smile faded slightly. “Mother’s body has not been well these days. To avoid offending the n.o.ble ones, she has let this subject come to the Emperor to give birthday greetings.” Her mother was siblings with the Emperor, but they were not of the same mother. Additionally, her father was average and not in the Emperor’s favor, so even though Min Huai Junzhu was the daughter of a princess, she wasn’t one of the top personages in this Jing that was illed with many people of high status. In front of Princess Rui He, the Emperor’s only daughter, she was even more careful and attentive, in fear that she would offend the princess and create a calamity for her Yuan Family.

Hearing this, Princess Rui He showed some concern. After comforting Min Huai Junzhu with a few words, they headed towards Zhao Yang Hall, with the two of them walking at staggered positions.

Min Huai Junzhu said seemingly unintentionally after walking a while, “Your Highness Princess, have you heard the recent rumors of Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei?”

“What about her?” Princess Rui He looked dryly as her steps slowed. “Did you hear some chatter?”

“It is not anything major. Some people are saying that Xian Junw.a.n.g and Junw.a.n.g Fei are deeply in love. Junw.a.n.g Fei is different than the rumors say and is a rare beauty.” When Min Huai Junzhu said this, she lowered her voice and looked around. Seeing that Princess Rui He was still looking neutrally at her, she continued. “Some are even saying that Xian Junw.a.n.g fell in love with Junw.a.n.g Fei at irst sight. He takes the utmost care of her, and they are a match made in heaven.”

“A new marriage, it is fresh.” Princess Rui He smiled as she touched her earring. “As to whether Junw.a.n.g Fei is the most beautiful in the world, we’ll know after seeing her tonight.” The smile at her lips was slightly cold. She turned to look at the palace doors and coincidentally saw a carriage stop at the gates. The servants beside it seemed to be from Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fu.

Min Huai Junzhu’s expression changed slightly. “The most beautiful in the world” appeared to be a compliment, but for n.o.ble females, this was not a good phrase and was more suited for those females in the slums. Even though she knew that these words were inappropriate, she felt a certain pleasure deep inside. If there weren’t so many people in the surroundings, maybe she would not control her expression and would show a smile.

Princess Rui He didn’t have any good feelings about the people of Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu and had even more dislike for the people of Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fu. The former had a great reputation in Jing, but that was because of his appearance and talents. The latter was someone she was wary of because of his abilities in the court.

Sheng Junw.a.n.g was not as outstanding in appearance as Xian Junw.a.n.g, but his literary and martial abilities were outstanding. This contrast caused the already average Crown Prince to look even worse. Sometimes, it would cause people to only remember the abilities of Sheng Junw.a.n.g and to forget that the Crown Prince was the next emperor.

“Greetings to Imperial Sister Rui He, Cousin Min Huai.” Sheng Junw.a.n.g and his junw.a.n.g fei walked in front of the two and gave a bow of equals towards the two. Even though his conduct was appropriate, anyone could see that there wasn’t any intimacy between them.

“Good day to Sheng Junw.a.n.g.” Princess Rui He responded with half a bow, and her words were even more distant. As for the junw.a.n.g fei beside Sheng Junw.a.n.g, she didn’t even give the other female a glance.

Min Huai Junzhu, on the other hand, bowed sincerely to husband and wife and then retreated half a step to stay away from the con lict between the three. She had heard previously that before Hou s.h.i.+ married, Princess Rui He hadn’t liked her. After Hou s.h.i.+ married into Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fu, Princess Rui He disliked her even more. Due to Princess Rui He, many of the women in Jing didn’t dare to walk closely to Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fei.

Sheng Junw.a.n.g saw Princess Rui He’s att.i.tude and nodded neutrally. “Imperial Sister and Cousin have been conversing. Bo Yi is unskilled verbally and does not want to disturb you. Bo Yi is going ahead.” Finished speaking, he raised his folded hands and then left with Hou s.h.i.+.

Princess Rui He watched with a slightly heavy expression as Sheng Junw.a.n.g’s procession left, but her steps were paced and her actions were full of the dignity of an Imperial House’s princess.

Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu’s carriage stopped at the palace gates, and eunuchs immediately came up to hold the horse and put down the stool. Those that didn’t manage to get there irst respectfully bowed and stood at the side to wait for Junw.a.n.g Ye and Junw.a.n.g Fei to come off the carriage.

Mu Tong saw everything was prepared before he came forward and said, “Junw.a.n.g Ye, Junw.a.n.g Fei, we have arrived at the palace gates.”

After hearing the sound of acknowledgement from Junw.a.n.g Ye, Mu Tong climbed onto the carriage and lifted the curtain as he bowed. Two other eunuchs carefully held the stools to wait for Junw.a.n.g Ye to get off the carriage.

When the curtain was lifted, Hua Xi Wan saw the outside. Other than the palace attendants in the surroundings, the feeling the Imperial Palace gave her was the same as last time.

The two young eunuchs that were holding the stools naturally didn’t dare to raise their heads to stare directly at their superiors, but when an embroidered and fragrant slipper stepped past, and Hua Xi Wan’s beautiful dress lowed across the backs of their hands, they couldn’t help but still. It might have been because the dress was too beautiful or because of the faint loral fragrance.

“Which direction is Zhao Yang Hall?” Hua Xi Wan looked at the vast Imperial Palace and asked the question that concerned her the most.

“It is not very far from here,” Yan Jin Qiu replied with a smile as he seemed to guess what the person beside him was worried about. “It is only one to two quarters by walking to Zhao Yang Hall. We will get there soon.”

Fifteen minutes to half an hour’s worth of distance… this was close?

Hua Xi Wan touched the slightly shaking buyao in her hair and gave a warm smile. “It is pretty close.” Actually, she didn’t want to walk one step, honestly.

The Emperor was having his birthday. Even if it was a family banquet, there were considerations. There couldn’t be any palace attendants whose birth times were in con lict with the Emperor’s, no one who was ill among the people attending, or those whose families were in morning. Anything that could con lict was not allowed to appear in Zhao Yang Hall.

When Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu appeared in Zhao Yang Hall, many members of the Imperial House were already present. Mu Tong handed the medallion that represented the ident.i.ty of Xian Junw.a.n.g to the guard at the hall doors, and then an eunuch called out, “Announcing Xian Junw.a.n.g and Junw.a.n.g Fei.”

Zhao Yang Hall that had been slightly busy instantly quieted. Some people who were not as composed looked directly at the doors and wanted to look at the true appearance of Hua s.h.i.+ who was rumored to be of ugly looks.

From far, they saw a male and female walk in holding hands—one water-blue, the other bright red. They could not see the features, but from away, they did look like a perfect pair.

Min Huai Junzhu couldn’t resist raising her head to look at the pair that was walking in. When they entered the main hall, the sound around her

became silence, and she could not take away her gaze.

She had never believed that a woman could possess the attributes of snowy skin, picturesque facial features, and an elegant igure all at once. For her, these kinds of beauties only appeared in those love stories that poor scholars wrote and only existed to satisfy the fantasies of men.

But when Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei appeared in her vision, the jealousy hidden deep in her heart instantly erupted. She didn’t even see Princess Rui He looking a few times at her.

There were those envious and jealous among the women present, but compared to them, the males of the Imperial House were more numerous. Their breath was stolen away and they were full of regret. Who had said that the di daughter of Yi’an Marquis Fu was one without beauty? If they knew that Yi’an Marquis Fu was hiding such a beauty, they would have gone long ago to ask for marriage. Who would drag it until now to let Xian Junw.a.n.g, this constant winner in life, to have the beauty?

Before this, they had felt that while Xian Junw.a.n.g had both appearance and talent, and the hearts of the girls in Jing, in the end he had married a woman of appropriate n.o.bility but who could not be seen in public. In private, they had even mocked him. But reality was completely different than the rumors. Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei was not a female without beauty but one who had a wondrous face. This caused the men to be illed with envy and jealousy towards Xian Junw.a.n.g, and to feel that the Heavens were unfair.

“Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei has a good appearance.” Hou s.h.i.+ picked up the teapot to pour a cup of tea for Yan Bo Yi. Seeing that he didn’t even turn his head, her smile grew. “Even as a female, I can’t resist but look more.”

Yan Bo Yi raised the teacup and took a sip before he glanced at the door. He quickly turned away his gaze and said indifferently, “Xian Junw.a.n.g is fortunate.”

Hou s.h.i.+ put down the teapot and closely examined the Xian husband and wife who were walking towards them. “Light and ine steps, exquisite and peerless.”

This phrase was one that was used to describe beautiful women, but it originated from a tragic story. In the story, the female that married ended up killing herself.

When Yan Bo Yi heard this, he put down the teacup.

After saying this, Hou s.h.i.+ detected that it was inappropriate. Seeing that Junw.a.n.g Ye had not realized it, she smiled and said, “Junw.a.n.g Ye is right. Xian Junw.a.n.g is fortunate.”

She was Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fei and had never been in love with Xian Junw.a.n.g. Most of what she felt was admiration about Hua Xi Wan’s appearance but not much jealousy.

Yan Bo Yi and Yan Jin Qiu had similar status. However, the person who had arranged the seats might have done it on accident or intentionally that Yan Jin Qiu’s position was coincidentally above Yan Bo Yi.

When they pa.s.sed Yan Bo Yi’s table, Yan Jin Qiu smiled and raised his hands in a greeting. Yan Bo Yi also stood up to return the greeting. “Brother-cousin, Brother-cousin’s wife.”

Hua Xi Wan turned her body slightly to avoid half of the other’s bow and then bent her knees to give a full bow. Then she walked two paces, close to where Hou s.h.i.+ was standing.

Hou s.h.i.+ noticed Hua Xi Wan’s movements, and her smile became even more sincere. While the other’s appearance was too outstanding, her conduct was proper.

After making sure that Yan Jin Qiu’s body was helping her dodge the majority of examining gazes, Hua Xi Wan used her handkerchief to cover her mouth and suppressed the urge to yawn.

As expected, she had no energy after getting up too early.

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Chapter Thirteen: Crown Prince

Inside Zhao Yang Hall, some of the idle and less accomplished young males of the Imperial House used what they thought were discreet looks to examine Xian Junw.a.n.g and his wife but didn’t even know that the wine they held in their wine cups had spilled out.

However, the Imperial House never lacked those that were good actors. No matter how shocked they were, how jealous and envious, the majority of people could pick up their composure and wait for the banquet to start after the initial shock.

No matter how many people were paying attention to her, Hua Xi Wan’s expression did not change from beginning to end. After greetings to their neighbors, she sat silently beside Yan Jin Qiu as though no one was paying her any attention.

“This wine is called Lotus Immortal Wine. It is fragrant but not harsh. Supposedly, drinking this can increase longevity, protect the appearance, and is most suited to females.” Yan Jin Qiu picked up a wine cup and poured some for Hua Xi Wan. The warm smile on his face was enough to dazzle the eyes of many females. “Xi Wan, have a taste.”

Hua Xi Wan’s eyebrow rose slightly as she said doubtfully, “It is this wondrous?” Then she raised the wine cup and took a small sip. The lavor was very faint, and after swallowing, there was a burst of lotus that was left in her mouth, sweet yet not strong.

“How is it?”

Looking at this face that was just a hand-length away from her, Hua Xi Wan reached out with an index inger and poked him back. She used her handkerchief to wipe the corner of her mouth and lazily said, “Not bad.” In her last life in the entertainment circles, while she had not been willing to accept the hidden rules, she had attended many meals and drunk all kinds of alcohol.

To her, wine was just like men. It was normal to like this thing, but if one couldn’t live if separated from it, then their life was over.

Seeing Hua Xi Wan’s interest in the wine was lacking, Yan Jin Qiu was not demotivated and started to talk about the ident.i.ties of the people in the hall, as well as the connections between the families. He also took away the wine cup in front of her in a natural movement and exchanged it for a cup of steaming tea.

Hua Xi Wan listened silently. When she heard that Ning w.a.n.g had requested to t.i.tle the son of his second wife as the heir, her eyebrow s.h.i.+fted slightly. If she remembered correctly, the di eldest son had been born to this Ning w.a.n.g’s original wife. There hadn’t been any problems she heard of about his conduct. It was very interesting that the position of heir had been given to the second wife’s child.

No wonder the Emperor felt such danger. He had managed to get the throne after such struggle, but all his brothers were still circling

around. He had managed to survive until the two most able had died, but their sons were all very able while his own son was not. She really felt sympathy on the Emperor’s behalf.

Even though Yan Jin Qiu’s words were spa.r.s.e, Hua Xi Wan still managed to conclude some things from these words. Ning w.a.n.g’s family was not very good, but the Emperor treated them pretty well. Shen Junw.a.n.g who was the most popular in court appeared to be treated importantly on the surface, but the Emperor found him a junw.a.n.g fei born from a prestigious family that was empty on the inside while stating that he was caring for his juniors. The average Crown Prince did not have good relations.h.i.+ps with his cousins of the same generation. The only one that frequently followed the Crown Prince was Yan Qian Xun, the heir to Ning w.a.n.g who was born of the second wife, and some of the Imperial House members that were wastrels.

The Crown Prince was average and a wastrel and didn’t have any other brothers. His male cousins were very outstanding, so this matter wasn’t really good to think deeply about.

With the pair appearing so intimate, some of the Imperial House members that originally were envious and jealous of Yan Jin Qiu to begin with had red eyes. Where was the female without beauty that they had spoken about? Why were the Heavens so unfair to give him so much, and now give him such a beautiful di wife? How could they ind it fair?

驸⻢ fuma: the husband of a princess, the Emperor’s son-in-law

Princess Rui He heard the conversation going on around her. The smile on her face did not change as she said to her fuma who appeared extremely wooden, “Fuma, what do you think about Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei’s appearance?”

The fuma who had his head thrown back as he drank heard the princess’ words and looked in the direction that Hua Xi Wan sat in. With this glance, he stilled. He couldn’t help but look a few more times before he nodded and said, “Pretty good, Princess. Your cousin has a pretty good wife.”

Princess Rui He saw his state and impatiently moved her gaze away. She gave a fake smile and said, “Fuma’s words are low. What does the appearance of a female have to do with their goodness?”

The fuma could hear that her words were not right and did not respond. He continued to drink.

Seeing him so dull, dislike lashed through Princess Rui He’s eyes before they calmed.

“The Crown Prince has arrived!”

This call caused the people in the large hall to quiet. Yan Jin Qiu who had been talking to Hua Xi Wan stopped, and straightened as he looked

towards the door. Hua Xi Wan followed him in looking outwards and saw a young man of medium height walk proudly into the hall with several palace attendants. His appearance was not as outstanding as Yan Jin Qiu’s, but it could also be called handsome. His brow was similar to the Empress she had seen before, but his actions appeared high and arrogant.

The Crown Prince walked and exchanged courtesies with the clansmen of the Imperial House. When he walked close to the seats at the front, he saw a beauty dressed in formal attire and he stopped in his steps. A few blinks later, he recovered and said strangely to Yan Jin Qiu, “This is your wife? Cousin is very fortunate.”

The Crown Prince was not the irst to say this, but he was the irst to say it so directly. Many Imperial House members who heard this looked down on his conduct. He really was careless to say this to his cousin’s wife. He should not say this in front of the female in question, and even if he was saying it behind her back, he shouldn’t say it so straightforwardly. The other was his cousin’s wife, and his cousin’s wife that had been married and welcomed with all the rites and ceremonies. How could he say this to Xian Junw.a.n.g as though he was discussing a concubine?

“Haha.” Yan Jin Qiu stood and raised his folded hands at the Crown Prince. “Subject-brother naturally does not have as much good fortune as Your Highness.”

The Crown Prince’s conduct was not likeable, but he was not stupid. Seeing that Yan Jin Qiu’s smile wasn’t right, he inally took his gaze away from Hua Xi Wan. Patting Yan Jin Qiu’s shoulder, he said boldly,

“Brother is casual in speech but sincerely feels happy for you. Do not be offended.”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled and raised his folded hands again. He did not speak and state if he was offended or not.

The Crown Prince saw his harmonious smile and thought that Yan Jin Qiu did not care about what he had just said. He took away his hand that was on Yan Jin Qiu’s shoulder and strode toward the seat that was left especially for the Crown Prince. For him, it didn’t matter if his cousin had objections. He was the Crown Prince, and in the future, his cousin would have to live by his whims. Why did he have to consider people who were fated to live below him?

Hua Xi Wan sat on the side and looked at Yan Jin Qiu’s lawless smile. She raised a teacup to hide the expression on her face. It might have just been a feeling of hers, but she felt that Yan Jin Qiu’s smile hid an unspeakable darkness.

“The Crown Prince is a rough person. Do not care too much about his conduct.” After Yan Jin Qiu sat down, he spoke next to Hua Xi Wan’s ear. “There is nothing interesting in getting into it with someone without brains.”

His index inger rubbed the rim of the wine cup as though he was caressing his lover. The smile on his face became even more attractive.

Not ifteen minutes after the Crown Prince appeared in Zhao Yang Hall, the Empress Dowager, the Emperor and the Empress arrived. After everyone bowed and heard the opening speech of the Emperor, they sat on their seats, exchanged toasts with the people around them, listened to the songs and admired the dances.

As to the gifts they had prepared, they had been given to the rites of icials to be recorded down. After the banquet, the Emperor would go look. An event such as families competing for the biggest gift that happened in TV dramas would not happen here. At most, the imperial family members closest to the Emperor in relation would toast the Emperor and say a few words.

As the one with the highest status among this generation, the Crown Prince personally recited good wishes to the Emperor and then displayed a good act of the benevolent father and ilial son in front of the Imperial House. The people around followed in praising the Emperor’s benevolence and the Crown Prince’s ilialness as though these two were the example of father and son for the world.

Hua Xi Wan felt that all of the members of the Imperial Family present were Oscar winners. Look at the emotion on that face, look at the lawless smile at the corner of the mouth—they were better than professional actors.

Fortunately, she had some skill in acting. Otherwise, she might not be able to give such a natural expression of being moved.

After this good play of the benevolent father and ilial son ended, everyone could inally eat. A stream of exquisite dishes was brought in, and then the dishes they ate from were taken away. By the end, Hua Xi Wan could not remember how many dishes she had eaten from. Even though she might have only taken one mouthful from the dishes, she was more than half-full.

There were people who came up to Yan Jin Qiu to drink. Hua Xi Wan was not familiar with anyone’s appearance, but she had some knowledge of their names and ident.i.ties. So when the conversation started, she did not show any timidity.

The people of the Imperial House originally thought that only Hua Xi Wan’s appearance was outstanding, but after a few probes, they found that while this female was not chatty, her speech was measured, digni ied and n.o.ble. She did not seem like a female who had never attended public gatherings before.

The Crown Prince’s words were slightly rough, but from the current situation, Xian Junw.a.n.g was fortunate to have married such a junw.a.n.g fei.

Born from a prestigious family, of high ident.i.ty, digni ied in speech, devastating in appearance—so many good attributes gathered in one person. If it wasn’t great fortune, how could Yan Jin Qiu have gotten her?

Also, many people knew what the Emperor had originally planned. He had played matchmaker to ind a female without beauty. Who knew that the rumors were false. The di daughter of Yi’an Marquis Fu did not leave the fu because of her sick const.i.tution, and not because of a problem with her looks.

There seemed to have been people over the years who said that the di daughter of Yi’an Marquis Fu was extraordinary, and that she never interacted with the outside due to her health, but not many people had believed it. They only felt that these words had come from Yi’an Marquis Fu in order to protect the face of their miss.

Only today did they understand something. What was heard by the ears was false, what was seen by the eyes was true. Following the majority might not be right.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Fourteen: Undercurrents

Halfway through the banquet, Hua Xi Wan had pretty much illed her appet.i.te. She took the opportunity to examine the members of the Imperial House and found that, no matter the gender, these people all had good appearances. If the wives of these qinw.a.n.g and dukes were not beauties, they were digni ied and lawless.

Just sitting there, the people exuded a presence unique to n.o.bility. This was like when she had been acting in her past life. People in different strata needed to speak and move differently; even the inner self changed along with the environment. When these things came together, it was called acting technique and was a kind of energy.

The present dynasty had gone through a few generations. Even if the appearance of the irst emperor was average, after the addition of several generations of beautiful consorts, it was normal that the average level of beauty was high.

“It is the irst time Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei is attending a family banquet at the palace. Do you have anything you are unused to?” The Empress was sitting on the phoenix seat. Seeing Hua Xi Wan put down her chopsticks, she said with a smile, “Everyone present is a part of our family. If there is something you are unaccustomed to, state it— everyone will forgive you.”

娘娘 niangniang: respectful t.i.tle used for the Empress and/or imperial consorts

The Empress’s words were ambiguous. Hua Xi Wan saw the faces of some Imperial House members were not right. She stood and curtsied. “Many thanks, Empress niangniang for the concern. The banquet is very good. Nephew-wife is not unaccustomed.” This was the birthday banquet for the Emperor. If she, a junw.a.n.g fei, really didn’t feel comfort here and was unaccustomed, then that was just seeking death.

Hearing this, the Empress nodded in comfort. “It is good that you are used to this. Ben gong sees you liked the dish G.o.ddesses Spreading Flowers, and had the palace attendant go get another plate for you. If you like to eat it, do eat more.”

“Nephew-wife thanks Empress niangniang.” Hua Xi Wan felt the gazes of some womenfolk land on her body. Her smile carried hints of fear at being singled out, and slight panic at being paid attention to by the Empress.

A portion of the smart womenfolk moved their gazes away. This Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei was too young and really took the Empress’ conduct as good intentions. Such an innocent personality—if Xian Junw.a.n.g did not protect her well, she really wasn’t suited to a place like the Imperial House.

The Empress swept her gaze across everyone seated and then said a few more words to Hua Xi Wan before letting her sit. Inside, her opinion

of Hua Xi Wan dropped slightly. The girl had an outstanding appearance but not enough intelligence. If this was any other of the womenfolk, they de initely would know how to respond without offending her while also not attracting the dislike of other people. Hua Xi Wan actually accepted this special treatment without a word. Yi’an Marquis Fu really raised a good daughter.

The Emperor didn’t seem to have noticed the Empress’ scheme and gave a few words of praise for Yan Jin Qiu. He let everyone present see his high opinion of Yan Jin Qiu before he listened in satisfaction to the lattery of others.

Hua Xi Wan had heard that the Emperor was a very charismatic and ambitious ruler in the irst years after ascending the throne, but in her eyes, he was now just a slightly old, extremely suspicious, lavish and average emperor that liked hearing lattery.

Unrivaled power could easily lead one to lose sight of the path. Qilong Emperor had lost his strength and moves when he took the throne, and right now, he was more like an old man hugging the gold. Anyone who pa.s.sed by him was a thief that wanted to steal his gold.

Someone who was in a position of power long enough and did not have a strong resolve would easily gain the law of being arrogant. They would always think that they would forever be the winner. When they considered and treated other people, they would unconsciously look through a layer of ego.

If Qilong Emperor hadn’t been so egotistic, and spent some effort to investigate Yi’an Marquis Fu, he might not have pushed her towards Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu. The Empress had been the same when she looked at Hua Xi Wan. In the eyes of many people, beautiful women were mostly without brains, so unconsciously, the Empress had a low opinion of her.

She never worried about people underestimating her—she was just afraid of people overestimating her.

“Junw.a.n.g Ye?” Hou s.h.i.+ found Yan Bo Yi had glanced at Hua Xi Wan. Her smile did not change as she poured a cup of wine for him and raised it up to his mouth. “I heard that each table only has a small jug of this. You like wine, do not miss this. If you pa.s.s this village, there isn’t another store like this.”

Taking the wine cup and draining it, Yan Bo Yi said indifferently, “Good wine is rare, but it is not impossible to ind. Drinking it is for the freshness.”

“Junw.a.n.g Ye is right.” Hou s.h.i.+ took the empty wine cup but did not pour any more of this wine for him.

“Aijia’s grandson-wives are all good, beautiful and of good personality,” the Empress Dowager said. After she spoke, she gazed at the Emperor. “Emperor, isn’t that so?”

“Mother-Empress is right.” The Emperor put down the wine cup and responded to the Empress Dowager.

“En.” The Empress Dowager nodded in satisfaction and praised all of the wives of her grandchildren’s generation. But when she mentioned the Crown Princess, she only said “digni ied and steady,” and nothing else.

良娣 liangdi: the highest rank of Crown Prince’s consorts below the Crown Princess. The Crown Prince is allowed two liangdi.

The Crown Prince and Crown Princess had been married for a year, but there hadn’t been any joyful news yet. Due to this, the Empress was unable to stay composed and arranged two liangdi[2] for the Crown Prince. It was a pity that these three women who had status did not have any news. As for the other women the Crown Prince had played with, there was also no news. The Empress and the Emperor were slightly panicked.

The Crown Prince was without ability and unwise. The Emperor did not have any other children and naturally hoped that the Crown Prince would have more children. But while the Crown Prince put great effort into sowing his seed, there was no seed germinating as he only watered.

The Crown Princess had an expression of visible awkwardness. The other women had appeared together with their husbands, but she had to come alone because the Crown Prince had left early. Now the

Empress Dowager did not seem to have much satisfaction with her and made her feel even worse.

She looked at the Crown Prince who hadn’t detected anything, and lowered her head with a grimace. So what if she had become the Crown Princess? Married to this kind of man, what hope did she have in her life?

The n.o.blest women of three generations didn’t have harmonious relations. While the majority of womenfolk could not detect it, some clever ones could see that something was not right. For example, the Empress Dowager was extremely poor to the Empress this year. Princess Qing He who usually followed the Empress had not appeared, and the only member of the princess fu who appeared at the banquet was Min Huai Junzhu who was close to Princess Rui He.

Hua Xi Wan didn’t understand much about the matters of the Imperial House, but she felt that the Imperial House was a mess. The common saying was right—the place with the least amount of etiquette in the world was not the rural countryside, but the Imperial House.

“Have you eaten well?” Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Xi Wan had been silent all this time and said in a low voice, “After the banquet, we will eat after returning to the fu.”

Hua Xi Wan said with a smile, “I’m already full. Are you trying to raise me as though I’m a pig?”

“Pigs will not get such good treatment,” Yan Jin Qiu said jokingly. “No pig in the world can be this beautiful.”

“Maybe in the eyes of pigs, we people who do not have hair on our bodies and walk on two feet are the ugly ones.” Hua Xi Wan covered her mouth with her handkerchief and yawned. She said lazily, “Animals with fur are well-liked.”

“Like mice?”

Hua Xi Wan: “…”

“I thought normal people would think of cats and dogs.” Hua Xi Wan propped her chin on her hand and looked at Yan Jin Qiu. “At least, dogs and cats have a lot of fur on their tails. How much fur is there on a mouse’s tail?”

Their conversation was gradually veering off topic. Yan Jin Qiu heard Hua Xi Wan mention cats and dogs and said, “How about I get someone to ind a gentle and obedient little cat for you?”

“No, one has to give emotion to raise dogs and cats. I worry that I will not be able to persist from beginning to end, or that I will be unable to accept if they leave irst. It’s better not to have them.” Hua Xi Wan refused directly. “Without hope, there is no disappointment. Giving the other some feeling and then indifferently taking it back is the most heartless act.”

After Yan Jin Qiu heard this, he looked at her and didn’t mention the dogs and cats again. At this time, a female member of the Imperial House dressed in a long blue dress suddenly asked, “Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei, have you heard the rumors about you?”

Once the words came out, the hall instantly quieted greatly.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Fifteen: Crown Princess

There was actually someone who asked this question at the palace banquet. Was this to make trouble for Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei, or for the Emperor who had decreed the marriage? No matter what the rumors were, the Emperor “did not know.” He had decreed a marriage under the ident.i.ty of an elder and out of consideration for Xian Junw.a.n.g who did not have any parents. If the people in the Imperial House knew of the rumors outside, didn’t it mean they were accusing the Emperor of making terrible matches?

Hua Xi Wan raised her head to look at the person who had spoken. It was a matron with white skin and slightly heavyset. The gold hairpins in her hair lashed brightly and added a n.o.ble and intimidating air to the matron.

“Is Li Yao Furen talking about how the outside speaks of how Junw.a.n.g Ye treats qie well?” When she said this, Hua Xi Wan’s face was bashful. “Junw.a.n.g Ye does treat qie well.”

The matron’s husband, Count Jing Ping’s grandfather had been a junw.a.n.g. After three generations, they had barely managed to keep their t.i.tle of count. This was only because the man’s son was favored by the Emperor, so the Emperor had promoted him from third-rank count to irst-rank count. This family could only be considered poor imperial relatives compared to the grandness of Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu. This Jing Ping Countess’s hairpins were clearly common, and the style was that from several years ago. If this was in an average prestigious family,

the hairpins would be melted down to new styles and then bestowed to servant girls to play with.

Countess Jing Ping hadn’t expected Hua Xi Wan to agree with the rumors. She opened her mouth and wanted to say that this wasn’t what she was asking about, but then she saw the people in the surroundings had strange expressions. Even the people who were on good relations with her were giving her looks. She was unwilling but she couldn’t keep pressing.

This world never lacked people without brains, even in the Imperial Family. Hua Xi Wan saw Countess Jing Ping back down, and was too lazy to argue with her in this kind of setting. She pretended nothing had happened, smiled at everyone looking at her, and then lowered her head.

This smile caused many people to inhale sharply. Some men who liked beauty even thought that, if Hua Xi Wan smiled at them alone, they would be willing to do anything she wanted.

“Drink some digestive tea for your stomach.” Yan Jin Qiu raised his wide sleeve and reached out to pour tea for Hua Xi Wan. It also covered half of the stares in this direction. His actions were lowing, and the tea drew out an elegant curve in the air before it accurately poured into the cup. Not a drop was spilled.

Hua Xi Wan picked up the teacup. Even though the tea was still steaming, the cup gave off a feeling of coolness in her hand. She took a

sip before putting down the teacup, and looked outside the hall. “The time is late.” This was the time for her sleep.

Yan Jin Qiu realized what Hua Xi Wan was thinking about and said in a low voice by her ear, “It will end soon.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and imperceptibly tilted her head to move her ear further away from Yan Jin Qiu’s mouth.

Yan Jin Qiu looked at her pearl-in-cage earring as he smiled and poured a cup of wine for himself.

As Yan Jin Qiu had predicted, ifteen minutes later, the three most n.o.ble people in the Imperial Palace left quickly one after the other. Since the hosts had left, the guests only sat for a while longer before making their farewells.

Just as Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu were about to get on the carriage, an inner palace attendanvar infolinks_pid = 2003024; var infolinks_wsid = 13;t rushed and knelt in front of the two with a sandalwood box. “Greetings to Xian Junw.a.n.g, Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei. This servant is a personal attendant of the Crown Prince Fu, Yang Neng. The Crown Princess saw you and instantly felt you were like an old friend, so she specially ordered this servant to deliver some playthings to Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei.”

During the entire banquet, other than when they irst exchanged greetings, when were they like friends?

Hua Xi Wan looked at the sandalwood boxes embedded with pearls, nodded and then said with a smile, “Her Highness the Crown Princess is really too polite, subject-wife is afraid.”

Yang Neng saw that Hua Xi Wan had not shown any surprise at receiving special treatment from the Crown Princess, and guessed that while this Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei was not an extremely smart woman, she was steady. He gave the box to Hua Xi Wan’s personal servant girl, Bai Xia, and then bowed. “This servant has done as the Crown Princess has said—thousand gold cannot buy a true friend; it is the greatest fortune to see Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei as an old friend. These little things are just dead objects for people to play with and are not worth a mention.”

Since the other was persisting in giving the objects, Hua Xi Wan did not resist. After exchanging some more courtesies with this Yang Neng, she stepped onto the stool and into the carriage.

When the carriage left the palace gates, Hua Xi Wan didn’t even look at the things inside the sandalwood box. She said in a tone resonating with hatred, “Lock this up when we get home, and don’t even mention this to me.” Even though Yang Neng kept on mentioning the Crown Princess, she was certain that the one who was sending the gifts was not the Crown Princess but someone else.

Sending her something in front of Yan Jin Qiu, was this looking down on Yan Jin Qiu or trying to disgust her?

Hua Xi Wan iddled with the jade bangle on her wrist and tried to smooth her temper. She said hatefully in a low voice, “A dog.”

Yan Jin Qiu put a hand on the back of hers and laughed lightly. “He really is a dog.” And a dog who would not have any children.

He raised the curtain and looked outside. The carriage had already entered the main avenues of Jing. The noisy crowds along the streets gave people the feeling of prosperity.

“Is the outside beautiful?”

Yan Jin Qiu turned his head and saw Hua Xi Wan lazily leaning on the cus.h.i.+on. She was asking about the outside, but there wasn’t any curiosity on her face.

“Joy, anger, sorrow, happiness, all the emotions are there.” Yan Jin Qiu put down the curtain and suddenly said, “Has Xi Wan ever seriously thought about truly seeing the thoughts of these people?”

Hua Xi Wan lay on the back cus.h.i.+ons and didn’t care about Yan Jin Qiu’s question.

“From the side, a whole range; from the end, a single peak

“far, near, high, low; no two parts alike.

“Why can’t I tell the true shape of Mount Lu?

“Because I myself am in the mountain.[i]

“What does Jin Qiu think about this poem?”

Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes changed slightly, and then he smiled. “What does Xi Wan mean?”

Hua Xi Wan adjusted her position and said lazily, “Just what the poem means. I’m just one of the many people; I cannot even see myself clearly, and never thought about looking at others.”

“Xi Wan is simple and straightforward.” Yan Jin Qiu stared at her eyes. “Then has Xi Wan ever thought that the scenery at the highest place is different?”

“Of course it is different, tall mountains and strong winds.” Hua Xi Wan yawned and said with half-lidded eyes, “If you are going to sightsee next time, prepare thick clothing for me, don’t let me get cold or hungry— then I can accompany you.”

Yan Jin Qiu had a complex expression as he looked at Hua Xi Wan who was resting with her eyes closed. A moment later, he laughed. “You are the woman I’m closest to in this life. How can I bear for you to endure hards.h.i.+p and tiredness?”

Hua Xi Wan’s eyelids moved but did not open.

The carriage continued to move. As it swayed, Hua Xi Wan gradually slipped into sleep.

孤 gu: how a king or crown prince refers to himself, similar to zhen for the emperor.

Inside the Crown Prince Fu, the Crown Prince looked impatiently at the old Imperial Doctor who was taking his pulse. “A check-up and medicine every day, yet gu[1] has not seen any effects.”

Hearing this, the Imperial Doctor went back two steps and knelt on the ground. “Your Highness, your liver and kidneys are weak and should not use wine. Today…”

“All right, gu knows how gu’s body is.” The Crown Prince stood and looked with a dark expression at the old Imperial Doctor who was shaking. “You do not need to speak more. Leave.”

The old Imperial Doctor wanted to advise, but when he saw the Crown Prince’s ugly expression, he suppressed the urge. The Crown Prince was at a prime age and had a high demand in certain areas. But for children, he should rest and nurture his body, drink less, and restrain himself from bedroom matters. But the Crown Prince was one who did what he wanted. What ability did he have to persuade such a person?

Coming out of the inner rooms, the old Imperial Doctor saw the Crown Princess come with a few palace attendants. Before he inished his bow, one of the Crown Princess’ palace attendants came to support him.

“Imperial Doctor He does not need to be so courteous. How is the Crown Prince’s body?” Compared to the lack of etiquette from the Crown Prince, the Crown Princess appeared easy to talk to and gentle. “Is there a good turn?”

Hearing this, Imperial Doctor He said, “Your Highness, His Highness the Crown Prince is just slightly over twenty, and at a good time in life. If he could drink less and rest, it would be more bene icial for having children.”

After the Crown Princess heard this, she had servants see Imperial Doctor He out with a smile on her face. Inside, she sighed. The Crown Prince was like this, and because the Crown Prince had disregarded her

a few times, she, the Crown Princess, had lost her authority in front of the other women in the Crown Prince’s palace a long time ago. How could she persuade the Crown Prince to change his att.i.tude?

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Chapter Sixteen: All Is Possible

After Qilong Emperor’s birthday, rumors about Hua Xi Wan spread in Jing.

Supposedly, Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei never saw guests before her marriage truly because of her health and no other reason. In reality, this Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei was actually devastatingly beautiful and stunned many people when she appeared at the Holy One’s birthday banquet.

When the rumors came from the mouth of the n.o.bility, many people expressed that they had felt long ago that Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei wasn’t really a female without beauty. Otherwise, why wasn’t Yi’an Marquis Fu in a hurry to disguise it?

Those people who had relatives serving in Yi’an Marquis Fu felt they could hold their heads up. In the past, they had said that the miss of Hua Fu had great beauty, but no one believed them, saying that they were lattering the marquis fu. Now that the n.o.bility were saying that Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei was a great beauty, the people who spread the rumors disappeared, and many people who “already knew” appeared.

The prestigious families that had once planned to ask for marriage from Yi’an Marquis Fu but then hesitated because of the rumors felt great regret. The Hua Family had been marquises for generations. Hua Xi Wan’s two elder brothers were good, and if they’d had such a family for in-laws, it would have been very good. But they had wasted such a good chance and allowed Xian Junw.a.n.g to pick up this great bargain.

g

p

p

g

g

At this time, there were ones who were complaining and were jealous, there were even people who tried to set Lu s.h.i.+ against her two sisters-in-law from her paternal family. They implied that Lu s.h.i.+ didn’t care about her sisters-in-law, and said that the two sisters-in-law allowed such a niece to marry into the Imperial Family etc etc.

The people of the Lu Family were honest and direct, but that did not mean they did not have brains. If the Lu Clan did not have brains, how could their ancestor command armies and conquer the world with the First Emperor? Those skilled in tactics naturally had smart brains and long-term views. Would they ruin their relations with their relatives due to machinations like this?

The two females of the Lu Family were honest and protective. After hearing people making implications, they expressed with dark faces that it was a match in heaven for a niece of the Lu Family to marry Xian Junw.a.n.g.

They did not say anything but gradually distanced themselves from these people.

Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu.

After Hua Xi Wan read the letter that Lu s.h.i.+ had sent her, she folded up the letter and had Bai Xia put it away. She walked next to the window and looked at the blinding sun outside. She said with a creased brow, “The days are getting hotter.”

姐姐 jiejie: elder sister, big sister; can be added to names to show respect or a close relations.h.i.+p

Zi Shan had been putting incense b.a.l.l.s in the Gold Beast Stove to repel pests. Hearing this, she said, “If Junw.a.n.g Fei feels hot, let Hong Ying Jiejie[1] make a fruit sorbet for you. She’s best at doing this.”

Hua Xi Wan sat down bonelessly on the soft chaise next to the window. She felt her sitting position was still not comfortable, so she lay down on the chaise, her face against the cool brocade. She inally felt slightly better. “That’s nice.”

Hearing this, Hong Yin stopped what she was doing, smiled, bobbed towards Hua Xi Wan, and prepared to go to the ice cellar to get ice.

“Make a few bowls—you should all have a taste,” Hua Xi Wan lazily addedvar infolinks_pid = 2003024; var infolinks_wsid = 13;and then took the soft pillow that Bai Xia handed over. She put it under her body and then lay on her side with her left hand propping up her chin, her right index inger tapping slowly against her leg. “Lu Zhu, have you inished the accounts of the shops that are in my dowry?”

“I have checked them. There is a lot of pro it this month.” Lu Zhu took out a few stacks of accounts from a wooden chest. Seeing that Hua Xi Wan did not intend to read the accounts, she narrated the general situation to Hua Xi Wan.

“These shops are good ones next to the street; it is normal for them to be pro itable.” Hua Xi Wan lipped randomly through the jewelry shop accounts. “Make sure to support these old craftsmen. Remember to tell the stewards that those who have done work over ifteen years and are over ifty years old in my shop, have not made mistakes and have worked hard, can get an extra half string of cash other than their wage. If they later do not want to work and retire to go home, each season they can receive half a string of cash at the store as aid. But if someone tells other people about the affairs of the shop, then do not blame the owners for being merciless.”

Right now, medicine was limited and the average lifespan was not high. Those who were ifty were considered healthy and long-lived. Hua Xi Wan was not afraid she could not stay true to her word.

Hearing this, Lu Zhu stilled. She then understood that Junw.a.n.g Fei wanted to keep these craftsmen with skills. She said, “This servant will get the stewards to pay attention to this matter.” This looked simple, but there was a lot of room for something to go wrong in the process. Fortunately, with Junw.a.n.g Fei’s ident.i.ty, those workers would believe the promise the shops made.

How many workers could get half a string of cash every season after they were ifty based on their seniority of work in their former stores?

Throwing the ledger to one side, Hua Xi Wan lay back on the chaise. “I’m napping. Wake me up later.”

Seeing this, Bai Xia sat down on a footstool next to the chaise and started to gently move a round fan. Lu Zhu and Zi Shan put away what was in their hands and tiptoed out of the inner rooms. They had the lower-ranked servant girls who were serving in the outer rooms lightly leave before they left the bedroom.

“After Junw.a.n.g Fei’s management, the shops have been more pro itable these two months.” Having followed Hua Xi Wan for many years, Lu Zhu still felt that she could not get the measure of Junw.a.n.g Fei’s personality. She was clearly an intelligent person, but she was always lazy. She clearly was the di daughter of a marquis fu and a n.o.ble female who should not have done any work, but she could always ind the marks of the stewards through looking at the accounts and was knowledgeable about inancial matters.

Thinking about this, she recalled how lazy yet clear Junw.a.n.g Fei had been when she said that women should never not have any money in their hands. “If Junw.a.n.g Fei was willing to attend those poetry meetings, polo matches, the t.i.tle of irst n.o.ble female in Jing…”

Feeling that she had said too much, Lu Zhu hurriedly closed her mouth. She looked around and saw that no one was in the corridor before she released a breath.

Seeing her act like this, Zi Shan lectured with a smile, “Do not speak nonsense. Junw.a.n.g Fei is a person with ideas. We only need to follow and do what Junw.a.n.g Fei tells us. You do not need to speak of useless things.”

“You are right, I’m thinking too much.” Lu Zhu curtsied towards Zi Shan and thanked her for the warning. She glanced at the yard covered in painting and carvings. She smiled slightly. “I forgot myself and forgot where this is.”

Zi Shan allowed her to complete the curtsey before she returned half of a curtsey. “It is fortunate that you are clear. Otherwise, it is useless even if I remind you.” Junw.a.n.g Fei was lazy and of good personality, but when she was angry, no one could stop her or get her to have mercy.

When Yan Jin Qiu entered the main yard, he saw Hua Xi Wan deep in sleep. Only Bai Xia who was fanning Hua Xi Wan was left in the room. The other servant girls were outside. He put down his feet silently as he walked, and even left the two taijian in the outer room.

Bai Xia saw him come in and curtseyed towards him soundlessly.

Yan Jin Qiu nodded and took off the soft silk outer robe he wore. He took the fan from her hand and sat down next to the chaise to fan Hua Xi Wan. He lowered his voice and said, “The days are becoming hotter, so you have to pay attention when you serve.”

“Junw.a.n.g Ye, please rest. Us servants will serve well.” Bai Xia looked towards the chaise and made sure that their conversation would not disturb Hua Xi Wan’s rest before she continued to speak. “Junw.a.n.g Fei has a dif icult time in the heat. It is not good to always have ice in the

room, so before marriage, Junw.a.n.g Fei liked to stay in the shadows where the wind blew.”

Yan Jin Qiu looked at Hua Xi Wan’s thin arms and smiled. Such a thin person had a hard time in heat.

Bai Xia looked at the two of them and soundlessly left. Seeing Hong Ying come in with a bowl, she raised an arm to stop Hong Ying and took the other out of the room.

“Junw.a.n.g Fei is resting.” Bai Xia smiled and pointed at the bowl of ice in her hand. “Let us sisters divide this up.”

Hong Ying looked in bewilderment at Bai Xia. Bai Xia seemed to be in a good mood? She turned and looked suspiciously at the bedroom. Even Bai Xia had come out of the inner room. Had Junw.a.n.g Ye returned? Thinking about this, she shoved the bowl of ice into Bai Xia’s hand. “Bai Xia Jiejie has worked hard; you should have such a good thing.”

“Haha.” Bai Xia laughed lightly as she held the bowl of ice. Just as she was going to speak, she saw Mu Tong hurriedly walk over. Seeing the two servant girls at the door, Mu Tong guessed that Junw.a.n.g Fei was resting. He was in great urgency, but worried about disturbing Junw.a.n.g Ye and Junw.a.n.g Fei’s rest. He walked back and forth in front of Bai Xia and Hong Ying.

“Chief Steward Mu, what are you doing?” Hong Ying smiled as she looked at Mu Tong acting like this. “Is there something important?”

Mu Tong looked at the two servant girls close to Junw.a.n.g Fei. He sighed and said, “Girls, the servant came to report just now that Ling Ping Junzhu has entered Jing. If you two girls have time, please help deliver the message for me.”

“Mu gonggong is too polite. Please wait.” Hong Ying stilled and then reacted. Wasn’t Ling Ping Junzhu Junw.a.n.g Ye’s di elder sister? She was preparing to turn and enter the room to report when she turned her head and saw Junw.a.n.g Ye walk out with an expressionless face.

“What is with this panic?” Hearing Mu Tong mention his elder sister, there was no joy on Yan Jin Qiu’s face. He said indifferently, “Junw.a.n.g Fei is resting in the room. Do not disturb her.”

Hearing this, the panic on Mu Tong’s face instantly disappeared. He knelt down in front of Yan Jin Qiu. “This one has lost composure. Please, Junw.a.n.g Ye, give punishment.”

“Stand up and respond.” Yan Jin Qiu’s brow creased as he said, “Ling Ping Junzhu has been in Jiang City these past years. Why did she suddenly return to Jing?”

郡⻢ junma: the husband of a junzhu

“This small one heard that the Emperor sent a secret decree for the junma[2] to return to Jing for a position. So Junzhu returned with Junma to Jing.” Mu Tong stood. His body was bowed as he said, “When this small one heard the news, Junzhu and Junma had already entered Jing.”

Yan Jin Qiu expressionlessly listened to Mu Tong talk and his eyes swept down. “Since that is the case, then let her do so.”

Bai Xia and Hong Ying had bowed their heads and retreated into the corner already. Hearing this conversation, the two felt puzzled. Two months ago when Junw.a.n.g Ye and Junw.a.n.g Fei married, Ling Ping Junzhu had not come back. Now, she had come back without a word of notice to Junw.a.n.g Fu. It seemed that brother and sister were not very close.

The two exchanged a look and suppressed what they were thinking inside. They pretended they were transparent people who could not think.

Even father and son would try to kill each other in the Imperial Family, much less sister and brother.

The world was large, but only the Imperial House would have all kinds of wonders.

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Chapter Seventeen: Say and Do

“Lin Ping Junzhu?” Hua Xi Wan played with a box of ine pearls. After she inished listening to Hong Ying’s words, she slowly threw the pearls in her hand into the box. “Didn’t she marry and go to Jiang City four years ago?” She had heard that this junzhu had not married into a prestigious family but to a scholar with some signi icant family property who had come to Jing for the examination. After the court exam, this scholar had gotten the rank of tenth in the second cla.s.s. While—in the eyes of normal people—this brought glory to their ancestors, in Jing where there were so many prestigious families, these people would appear every four years. There really wasn’t anything special. The only people these prestigious families would look at were the top few in irst cla.s.s.

No matter how much the results of this scholar from Jiang City were lacking in extraordinariness, this person had attracted the attention of Lin Ping Junzhu from Xian w.a.n.g Fu based on his good appearance and some good poems. The other wanted to marry him to the point of death. This was good luck that other people did not have.

Outsiders did not know the twists and turns of the matter, but Hua Xi Wan remembered clearly that this matter had been popular for a while in Jing at the time. It was only a few months after Lin Ping Junzhu had married to Jiang City that the matter was not mentioned anymore. However, now that Lin Ping Junzhu had come back to Jing with her junma and children, the matter of the past would most likely be picked up again by the gossipers. Hua Xi Wan lowered her head to look at the beautiful pearls in the box. She said unconcernedly, “Since Junw.a.n.g Ye says not to attend to this matter, you do not have to keep an ear out.”

Four years ago when the old Xian w.a.n.g had been sick, Lin Ping Junzhu had still managed to persist in marrying and moving to Jiang City that was not close to Jing. It was possible to see how much importance she placed on her junma. It was likely that her brother Xian Junw.a.n.g’s importance could not compare to her husband’s.

“This servant will do so.” Hong Ying put away the pearl box and put a cup of hot tea in front of Hua Xi Wan. “This servant is just worried that Lin Ping Junzhu will try to make things dif icult for you now that she has returned.” Women who married were most worried about meeting dif icult mother-in-law and sisters-in-law. If a woman met one of the two, then it was a very troublesome matter.

“What can she make dif icult for me?” Hua Xi Wan held up the teacup and blew the steam rising off the surface. She took a sip before saying, “In terms of paternal families, I have deep feelings with my family— they will love me and protect me. In terms of status, Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu is much higher than that family from Jiang City. Tell me, what am I afraid of?”

Yan Jin Qiu and Lin Ping Junzhu did not have good feelings. Even if they were very close, if the other tried to make things dif icult, she would not tolerate and step back. Her parents had raised her for more than a decade, but it was not to live bad days in Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu. Even if she could endure it, she could not accept it. If she allowed others to feel that the daughters of the Hua Family were easy to bully, that would be her crime.

Hong Ying saw her mistress was con ident, and she put down her worries. She then felt that she was not calm enough to not have thought of this.

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“I know you are all worried for me.” Hua Xi Wan put down her teacup and smiled at Hong Ying and the other girls. “With all of you beside me, I feel much safer.”

Hong Ying and the others didn’t dare to accept these words but relaxed. At least, Junw.a.n.g Fei did not feel they were bothersome and remembered their loyalty.

“Junw.a.n.g Fei, Junw.a.n.g Ye has returned to the fu. He is coming to the main yard.” Zi Shan walked in from outside. She saw that Bai Xia and Hong Ying’s expressions were not right, so she lowered her eyes and curtsied. Junw.a.n.g Fei, this servant heard that Junw.a.n.g Ye’s expression when he returned was not well.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan’s brow rose slightly. “Even if he is in a bad mood, he will not take his temper out on us. There is nothing to worry about. Just serve as usual.”

Zi Shan opened her mouth but could not speak. Junw.a.n.g Fei’s words were clearly correct, but she felt that something wasn’t right.

When Yan Jin Qiu came in through the doors to the main yard, he found that there were many servant girls surrounding his junw.a.n.g fei who was dressed in a loose robe. Her hair was only secured by a jade hairpin. She stood with a grave expression in the center of the yard as though she was mustering some energy up.

Thinking this way, he saw Hua Xi Wan’s hand come up. Her right leg made an elegant curve and stepped out. The movement was slow but lowed smoothly.

Yan Jin Qiu stood and watched as Hua Xi Wan inished her routine before he went forward. “What martial arts routine is Xi Wan doing?”

Hua Xi Wan was using a towel to wipe the ine sweat on her forehead. Seeing Yan Jin Qiu walk over, she brushed aside the bangs on her forehead. “A routine to strengthen the body. How come you have returned so early today?” Even though Yan Jin Qiu acted as though he was not interested in matters of governance, he had a role in the court and would attend the minor and major court sessions.

“There is nothing major happening in the court.” Yan Jin Qiu saw a lock of hair next to Hua Xi Wan’s face and pushed it behind her ear. “Your body has not been well these years, and you have never gone out. Why don’t we ind a good day soon to go out and play?”

Hua Xi Wan thought of the increasing temperature and her interest in going out disappeared completely. She said, “The weather is heating up.

Is it appropriate to go out?”

“Since that’s the case, I will take you out after the summer for a good trip.” Yan Jin Qiu saw that Hua Xi Wan did not plan on going back into the rooms and sat down on a nearby chair. “I’m worried that you will feel depressed alone in the w.a.n.g fu.”

“The w.a.n.g fu is pretty good. I won’t be bored.” Hua Xi Wan smiled. A lazy person like her wanted to live this kind of boring days—sleep until naturally waking up, only having to move her mouth to get to eat whatever she wanted, and dress how she wanted. If she was bored, she had a pile of novels to read. This kind of idle days was great.

Seeing Hua Xi Wan start her routine again, Yan Jin Qiu sat silently on the chair and admired her valiant movements. Even the slightly vicious movements carried an unusual beauty when Hua Xi Wan did them.

When he saw Hua Xi Wan kick the sandbag used in martial training up into the air, Yan Jin Qiu’s upright posture became even straighter.

“Jin Qiu, let’s go into the rooms.” Hua Xi Wan took the handkerchief that Bai Xia held out and wiped her hand as she walked in front of Yan Jin Qiu. Her breathing hadn’t sped up at all. “Right, I heard that Lin Ping Junzhu returned to Jing yesterday. Why don’t we invite them to return to the fu for a few days?”

Mu Tong and the other servants who had served for a long time felt coldness creep up their feet. Junw.a.n.g Fei could really pick the worst topic—wasn’t this pouring oil on top of the ire?

Yan Jin Qiu’s gaze swept around Hua Xi Wan’s pale neck, and he said with a slight smile, “There’s no need. She has been married out for so many years, she has her own family. She most likely does not have the time to come to our junw.a.n.g fu. In the future, you do not need to spend so much energy on her. Do not tire yourself.”

Everyone present instantly understood. Junw.a.n.g Fei had said “return to the fu,” but Junw.a.n.g Ye had said “come to our juw.a.n.g fu.” It seemed that in Junw.a.n.g Ye’s heart, Lin Ping Junzhu was an outsider.

Since the other had said it so explicitly, Hua Xi Wan was too lazy to pretend. She nodded and said, “So that’s how it is.” Finis.h.i.+ng, she changed the topic. “Today, I had the Food Room make two kinds of cooling soup. You should drink a bowl later. Summer is quickly arriving, and having inner heat is not good for the body.”

He probably had not expected Hua Xi Wan to accept it so easily without even saying any comforting or mediating words. So Yan Jin Qiu stilled before he nodded. “All right, I will de initely drink a bowl in the afternoon.”

Mu Tong saw the smile on Junw.a.n.g Ye’s face and buried his head deeper.

The two walked together into the room. Hua Xi Wan went inside to change her clothing and put up her hair before she sat down with a fan on the chaise. Seeing Yan Jin Qiu sit beside the table, she said, “The wind pa.s.ses through here. It is cooler than beside the table.”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu instantly stood and crowded next to her. “It really is cooler. No wonder you like to read here.”

Hua Xi Wan fanned herself as she smiled. “Most importantly, I like this chaise very much.”

The servants saw this and all left after pouring tea and putting refreshments out. Bai Xia and Zi Shan who were the last ones out even closed the door.

After the servants had all left, Hua Xi Wan said, “Today, Princess Rui He sent an invitation to our fu. She said she had bought a manor in the suburbs of Jing and is inviting us to go play in three days.”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes changed slightly. “Since it is Imperial Sister’s invitation, go look,” he said with an indifferent expression. “Three days from now, I will accompany you.”

Hua Xi Wan stopped fanning herself. She looked at the woman-onhorseback picture on her fan and smiled slightly.

Smart women never needed to do too much.

And smart men never needed their women to say too much.

Translator Ramblings: I’m sorry this is late, I have come down with a cough and snif les in the last few days and this just slipped from my mind.

There is so much subtext in this chapter and I’m not sure I translated it well enough but I don’t have the focus. Anyone want to take a stab and extrapolate?

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Chapter 18 Fatal Case

Past midnight, Hua Xi Wan suddenly woke up from her dream. She sat on the bed and looked at the shadow of trees on the window. After a few dazed moments, she turned and looked at the person beside her. She touched the ine sweat on her forehead and exhaled deeply.

A warm hand touched her forehead and found the sweat. He used the sleeve of his robe to wipe her sweat for her, and put an arm around her waist. “Had a nightmare?”

“It’s nothing.” Hua Xi Wan looked at Yan Jin Qiu who sat up and gave a smile. “I just dreamed that I dropped down from a cliff. It gave me a fright.”

“Ha.” Yan Jin Qiu laughed lowly and touched her soft hair, pulling her to lie down and tucking in the blankets for her. “The elders say that it is because you are growing.”

Hua Xi Wan felt slightly hot and took her arms out of the blanket. “When did you ever see a family’s girl who is seventeen still growing taller?”

“Those of other people’s families might not grow, but that does not mean that our family’s girl won’t grow.” Yan Jin Qiu touched her arm.

Detecting that her arm was slightly hot, he did not put her arm back under the blanket. “Sleep, I’m here.”

In the darkness, Hua Xi Wan could not see Yan Jin Qiu’s expression clearly, but she was sure that Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes were not as deep and emotional as his words. She closed her eyes and listened to the sound of the wind blowing past the tree branches. She smiled. So what if it was fake or sincere—it was ine as long as she had comfortable days.

Lu Zhu who had been standing guard outside heard noise inside the room and had planned on coming into the room to light a lamp. But when she heard the sound of conversation inside the room, she rested her thoughts. When the inner room became silent again, she inally lay down on her side.

At this time, a strong light suddenly lashed across the window, and then a rumble of thunder sounded. She was frightened and hurriedly put on a robe and shoes. When she walked to the door to the inner rooms, she listened for sound before speaking. ”Junw.a.n.g Ye, Junw.a.n.g Fei, do you need a lamp?”

“No, nothing. You can leave.”

Hearing Junw.a.n.g Ye’s words, Lu Zhu hesitated and made sure that Junw.a.n.g Fei did not have any opinions before she retreated to the mattress outside. At this time, the wind was blowing wildly outside, the doors and windows creaking. She raised her head to look at the ceiling and seemed to hear the sound of rain hitting the tiles.

As expected, a short while later, the rain started to pour down. It sounded as though the rain was going to push apart the roof. Using the light of the lightning, she looked in the direction of the inner rooms and pulled her blankets tightly around her.

Tomorrow, it was the day to go to Princess Rui He’s estate to play. She didn’t know if the rain would stop tomorrow.

The rain continued until eight before stopping. When Hua Xi Wan got up, the yard had been cleaned up. There weren’t any marks left by the storm remaining. She looked at the sun that had started to turn red on the horizon, rubbed her forehead, and spoke to Bai Xia behind her. “The thunder didn’t stop last night. I didn’t sleep well.”

Yan Jin Qiu who stood beside the window heard this and said, “Later, nap in the carriage.”

Hua Xi Wan covered her mouth and yawned. She did not refuse Yan Jin Qiu’s wonderful suggestion.

Because of the rainstorm last night, there was a fresh scent of rain spreading through the street under the(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});sun. Hua Xi Wan raised the curtain to look at the clean streets and the pa.s.serby on the road. She patted the soft cus.h.i.+on supporting her waist, chose a comfortable position, and started to make up for her lack of sleep.

Yan Jin Qiu saw she really fell asleep leaning against the cus.h.i.+on, so he put her legs on his knees so she could sleep more comfortably. After doing this, he glanced outside the carriage. The carriage was almost at the city gates.

When the gatekeepers saw the carriage come close, they recognized the insignia of Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu on the carriage. They politely made an inspection before permitting egress.

When the carriage left the city, it moved forward on the major road. But after travelling for a while, it suddenly stopped.

Seeing Hua Xi Wan show signs of waking up, Yan Jin Qiu’s brow creased. He raised the window curtain and asked, “What is going on?”

“Junw.a.n.g Ye, the road ahead is blocked. Shen Junw.a.n.g Fu and Ning w.a.n.g Fu’s carriages are also stopped in the front,” Mu Tong replied from outside the carriage. “The guards say that a fatal case has occurred in the front. It seems to be the young master of Zhang Family.”

Hearing the words “Young Master of Zhang Family” as she dozed, Hua Xi Wan recalled the matter that Second Aunt had mentioned when she had visited her paternal home, and her mind instantly became clear. She rubbed her forehead and asked with a creased brow, “Which Master Zhang?”

Yan Jin Qiu looked at her and did not speak. Mu Tong hesitated a while before saying, “They say it is Master Zhang of the famed Zhang Clan’s Primary Branch.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan became silent. The famed family Zhang’s primary clan leader branch had several daughters but only one son. That was Second Aunt’s younger brother…

“Do not worry, I will have Mu Tong go listen.”

“There is no need.” Hua Xi Wan put down her hand that had been ma.s.saging her forehead. “The Judicial Of ice will naturally take care of this matter. If we ask too many questions, it may cause trouble.” Usually, those who appeared at the scene of the crime and were concerned about the process of the case were those who were suspected by the investigators. It was best to not touch this trouble.

“It’s ine. The Zhang Family and the Hua Family are in-laws. It is normal for our Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu to ask.” Yan Jin Qiu knew what she worried about. He comforted her and had Mu Tong go to ask for information.

世⼦ s.h.i.+zi: literally “heir son”; refers to the heir apparent to a

qinw.a.n.g ( irst-rank prince). So Ning w.a.n.g s.h.i.+zi is the heir to the t.i.tle of Ning w.a.n.g. The heir usually needs to be formally decreed and is a t.i.tle on its own. s.h.i.+zi fei ( ) is the of icial wife of a s.h.i.+zi.

世⼦妃

Ning w.a.n.g s.h.i.+zi[1] Fei, Ceng s.h.i.+, dejectedly pulled the handkerchief in her hand and said, “So unfortunate to encounter such a matter in the morning.” She turned and saw her husband was playing with a new item that he had traded for from the outside and felt her anger rise. She could only suppress her anger and twist her head to the other side.

“What is there to be in a hurry about. In any case, if we get to the manor, it is just sitting there in a daze. Sitting in our carriage, it is more relaxed.” Yan Qian Xun put the playthings in his hand back into the box and then put the box on a shelf in the carriage. “Also, who this will offend is Princess Rui He—what does it have to do with you?”

“s.h.i.+zi, how can you say this?” Ceng s.h.i.+ inally could not suppress it. However, she was worried that what she spoke would be heard by the people outside, so she lowered her volume and said, “You are usually together with the Crown Prince. Princess Rui He is His Highness the Crown Prince’s full-blood elder sister. If she is not well, how is that of bene it to us?”

“It could be said like that, but this one really isn’t acceptable.” Yan Qian Xun twisted his mouth and said, “To buy this estate two months ago, she had someone beaten to death. I say, average wastrels cannot do this. This one is too malicious.”

“Stop speaking.” Ceng s.h.i.+ hurriedly covered Yan Qian Xun’s mouth. “It would be trouble if anyone else heard this.”

“Puh!” Yan Qian Xun snorted. However, wary of Princess Rui He’s ident.i.ty, he did not speak anymore.

Seeing this, Ceng s.h.i.+ released a breath, but she felt something as well. Two months ago, Princess Rui He had the servants beat someone to death to buy this estate. Almost all the prestigious families knew this. But because the Emperor favored her, others could not speak more about it.

That was a life. How could she so easily beat someone to death? Even they did not treat the servants of their fu so casually as to beat them to death.

Feeling suffocated, she raised the curtain to look. She saw a blue-robed taijian speaking to the leader of the Guard. She raised an eyebrow. “Isn’t that Xian Junw.a.n.g’s personal taijian?”

Yan Qian Xun moved his head over to look. He nodded and said, “It seems that Xian Junw.a.n.g’s family is also at the back. I heard that the victim is Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei’s paternal second aunt’s full-blood brother?”

Ceng s.h.i.+ nodded and then sighed. She said, “Last month, they started searching for him in Jing. Hadn’t thought…”

Both of them became silent as this matter did not have anything to do with them.

After a wait of about ifteen minutes, Mu Tong came back with information. He stammered out, “Junw.a.n.g Ye, Junw.a.n.g Fei, this small one has learned some news. But it is shocking to hear, so this small one doesn’t know whether to say it or not.”

“What is there that should not be said?” Hua Xi Wan spoke faster than Yan Jin Qiu. “Say what happened.”

After hearing Mu Tong speak, Hua Xi Wan felt it was very strange. It had been so windy and rainy last night—who would throw a corpse out at that time?

The fatality was covered in wounds and his tongue was also gone. Even one of his eyes was missing. The lesh was seriously rotten, but none of his bones was damaged. He was even wearing the clothing he had disappeared with a month ago. The clothing was very clean and was not damaged. It meant that the dead person had not struggled iercely when he was taken. Maybe the other person had been too strong, so that he was captured without even ighting back.

Now the culprit had suddenly thrown the corpse out, and on the main road towards the gates of Jing. This was really suspicious.

Also, how dif icult would it have been to transport a corpse from the city gates? At the same time, they had to avoid the night curfew and the guards who watched the gates. To do this, either the master of the Zhang Family had been imprisoned and tortured in the suburbs to start

with, or someone had left during the day yesterday and had successfully transported the corpse through the city gates.

It probably was not so simple to do this without any help. Most importantly, why did they throw the corpse in a place that people would frequently pa.s.s? Wasn’t that just waiting for other people to ind the corpse?

“Has the guard noti ied the Zhang Family?” Right after Hua Xi Wan said this, she suddenly heard wails of a woman crying outside. She was instantly shocked and raised the curtain to look. She saw several servants supporting an old man and woman as they stumbled over. The matron who was being supported seemed to only remain upright because people were pulling her. The sorrow on her face could not be disguised.

Hearing the heart-wrenching cries of Zhang Furen, Hua Xi Wan put down the curtain. She sighed and said, “It is the cruellest for those white-haired to send off the black-haired.”

The pitiful Zhang Couple. So old yet having to suffer such a matter. She really didn’t know how the two would accept this.

Yan Jin Qiu said indifferently, “A place like Jing never lacks for life.”

Hua Xi Wan heard this and became silent.

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Glossary

夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady, referring to the legitimate wife 府 fu: compound or estate; junw.a.n.g fu: prince’s estate/compound 郡王 妃 junw.a.n.g fei: the of icial wife of a junw.a.n.g ⽒ s.h.i.+: clan/maiden name 王 w.a.n.g: short for qinw.a.n.g (亲王) or irst-rank prince 世⼦ s.h.i.+zi: heir apparent to a qinw.a.n.g ( irst-rank prince) 世⼦妃 s.h.i.+zi fei: the of icial wife of a s.h.i.+zi 郡主 junzhu: t.i.tle given to a daughter of a qinw.a.n.g ( irst-rank prince), or to a female of the Imperial Family by the Emperor’s decree [1]翁主 wengzhu: t.i.tle given to a daughter of a princess [2]狀元 zhuangyuan, 榜眼 bangyan, 探花 tanhua: literally

“top thesis author,” “eyes positioned alongside” and “ lower s.n.a.t.c.her”; they are respectively the graduate ranked irst, second, and third overall in the triennial imperial examination junw.a.n.g: second-rank prince taijian: court or palace eunuch [3] daren: general term of respect used to refer to those of status ben gong: lit. “this palace”; illeism for females of the Imperial Family and imperial consorts [4] biao: relatives with a different surname. biao sao: mother’s sibling’s (older) son’s wife (here); or father’s sister’s (older) son’s wife [5] tang: relatives with the same surname. tang sao: father’s brother’s (older) son’s wife [6] tang bo: elder male cousin on father’s side when referred to by a speaker who has married into the family (usually female). Here, Hua Xi Wan as Yan Jin Qiu’s wife is using tang bo to refer to Yan Jin Qiu’s elder male cousin on his paternal side, Yan Bo Yi.

太监

表 堂

堂伯

Chapter Nineteen: King Xiang Has A Wife

郡王 ⼤⼈ 本宫 表嫂 堂嫂

Even though they were slightly far from the place that was surrounded by people from the Judicial Of ice, Hua Xi Wan could still hear the sobbing of Zhang Furen in the wind. Maybe it was that the loud sobs were so mournful that she couldn’t help but rub her arms. She said in a low voice, “Mu Tong, represent Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu and go urge Zhang Fure(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});n. Tell her to not harm her body.”

“Yes.” Mu Tong knew very well that even if he went at this time to give comfort, it would be nothing in the face of grief at losing a child. Junw.a.n.g Fei was a smart person and could not be ignorant of this. But since Junw.a.n.g Fei had told him to do so, then she naturally had her own intentions.

“Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei is very kind.” Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fei put down the curtain and said ambiguously. “She had the servant go to pour tea and hold the medicine.”

“En.” Yan Bo Yi lipped through the book in his hand and spoke without raising his head. “The Hua Family’s Second Branch Furen comes from the famed family Zhang.”

“So that is how it is.” Hou s.h.i.+ smiled. Seeing Yan Bo Yi’s attention was on the book, she did not speak again. She only raised the curtain and looked outside. She saw the servants from Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu comforting Zhang Furen, each of them having expressions of worry and sorrow on their faces as though Master Zhang had been a member of their family.

Seeing this, Hou s.h.i.+ tilted her face down. The smile in her eyes faded slightly. There were not many from Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu who were simple.

After a long while, the road that had been blocked inally allowed access. Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fu and Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu’s carriages tried to give up the right of way for a while before Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fu travelled ahead. After them were Ning w.a.n.g s.h.i.+zi and s.h.i.+zi Fei, and behind was Min Huai Junzhu.

Min Huai Junzhu usually followed Princess Rui He. It was extremely normal for her to come partic.i.p.ate at this time.

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翁主 wengzhu: t.i.tle given to a daughter of a princess

When Hua Xi Wan learned that Min Huai Junzhu’s carriage was behind them, she recalled what Princess Rui He had said on the wedding night. She said, “Min Huai Junzhu is the daughter of Princess Shun Yi. How did she receive the t.i.tle of junzhu?” According to normal tradition, Min Huai Junzhu was the daughter of a princess and her t.i.tle should be a wengzhu.[1]

“The empress likes Min Huai Junzhu very much, and last year, broke with tradition to decree her a junzhu and gave her the words Min Huai as the t.i.tle. She said that she was going to raise Min Huai as her own daughter.” Yan Jin Qiu showed a complex smile. “This kind of high favor is not something the daughters of other princesses can have.”

The ranks of wengzhu and junzhu were the same, and their true status depended on whether or not their family held power. Otherwise, what was the use in an empty t.i.tle? If the Empress really wanted to raise her as a daughter, she should have given the t.i.tle of princess. There was no need to make her an awkward junzhu, as though the Empress was wary of her.

She looked at the sardonic smile on Yan Jin Qiu’s face and did not keep asking.

The carriage was silent for a while before Yan Jin Qiu suddenly asked, “You are not concerned about Zhang’s murder case?”

“The Judicial Of ice will investigate this matter. What is the use in meddling in this?” Hua Xi Wan looked at Yan Jin Qiu with a burning gaze. Her lips curled as she smiled faintly. “There will be a result sooner or later. Am I not right?”

“Of course. The Judicial Of ice has always been serious and methodical in carrying out its cases.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled and raised the curtain to look outside. “We’re almost there.”

Hua Xi Wan raised her eyelids but did not speak.

Princess Rui He’s estate had just been inished, and it was the irst time she had invited people for a visit. Yan Jin Qiu was so familiar with this place, it probably was not the irst time he had come here.

Princess Rui He who had reached the estate ahead of time was not very happy when she heard the guests had encountered a fatal case on the way here. It really was inauspicious to have something like this occur when she had invited guests to her new manor.

狀元 zhuangyuan, 榜眼 bangyan, 探花 tanhua: literally “top thesis

author,” “eyes positioned alongside” and “ lower s.n.a.t.c.her”; they are respectively the graduate ranked irst, second, and third overall in the triennial imperial examination

“Is it that Zhang Family with the ive zhuangyuan, four banyan and seven tanhua[2]?” Princess Rui He was not pleased inside, but she did not show it on her face. She looked at the furen sitting and accompanying her, and showed an expression of slight regret. “I hear that this Master Zhang is a very good scholar. I hadn’t imagined that he would encounter such horribleness. They have to capture the culprit. Such a person is too daring!”

This master Zhang had been missing for more than a month, and the Zhang Family had spent a lot of time and effort to search for him. The others had felt a long time ago that there would not be any good news. Now that the news had come, most people would sigh and say that it was to be expected.

There were many prestigious families in Jing. It was a prosperous place, but it was full of scheming. This Master Zhang had been famed from a young age, but he was arrogant. Relying on his birth from the Zhang Family, he looked down on the students from common families. In the

last two years, he had become closer to the Crown Prince, his personality even more arrogant. Now, his tongue had been cut and one of his eyes gouged out. It must have been someone with a grudge who had delivered him such an outcome.

Those who were proud of their talents in history mostly did not have good endings. Those who were skilled but loyal to their country would leave behind a mark on history.

The people present heard the princess say this, and followed in sighing as though they had seen how outstanding Master Zhang had been.

After a wave of sighs, Princess Rui He asked, “Which families were delayed on the road?”

“Your Highness, this one heard that Sheng Junw.a.n.g, Xian Junw.a.n.g, Ning w.a.n.g s.h.i.+zi and Min Huai Junzhu were delayed. This one also heard that the of icials from the Judicial Of ice have come to personally investigate. The Emperor… must be very angry.” The taijian who responded was someone close to Princess Rui He, so he was more daring in his reply than other people.

“Did the womenfolk receive a fright?” Princess Rui He said worriedly. “The womenfolk are at such a young and blossoming age. How can they stand such a shock?”

⼤⼈ daren: general term of respect used to refer to those of status “Please, Princess, do not worry. The people from the Judicial Of ice will stop the carriages at a distance from the scene of the crime. The n.o.ble people did not see anything. Their emotions are steady. But Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei is related by marriage to the Zhang Family and sent someone to inquire.” The taijian hesitated and then said, “And left some people to comfort Zhang Furen and Zhang Daren.”[3]

Princes Rui He nodded upon hearing this and indicated for the taijian to retreat. She said to the furen sitting on the seats, “Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei is an attentive person. Beautiful, of good birth, and cares for people. With her beside my cousin, ben gong does not feel worry.” Finis.h.i.+ng, she sighed. “A fu needs a woman in charge of the household.”

The furen present naturally agreed. They were members of the Imperial Clan, but compared to these people, they were not worth a mention. They naturally had to latter and prop Princess Rui He up. They also pretended not to hear how Princes Rui He’s words were complimenting Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei on the surface but were implying that Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei’s appearance was too outstanding.

“We are at the estate?” Min Huai Junzhu stepped out holding the hand of her personal servant girl. Raising her head, she saw the carriage from Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu in front of her. Yan Jin Qiu stepped on a stool and out of the carriage as she was momentarily dazed.

Min Huai Junzhu stopped in her steps. Just as she was going to speed up and go forward, a white hand came out of the carriage. And Xian Junw.a.n.g who was unparalleled in her eyes smiled and clasped that hand.

表 biao: relatives with a different surname. 表嫂 biao sao: mother’s

sibling’s (older) son’s wife (here); or father’s sister’s (older) son’s wife

Her steps slowed. In a trance, a perfectly appropriate smile came onto her face, and she curtsied slightly to this Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei. “Biao Sao, [4] greetings.”

“Min Huai Junzhu, greetings.” Hua Xi Wan took her hand out of Yan Jin Qiu’s palm, and returned a curtsey with a smile. Then she walked side by side with Min Huai. “I have heard long ago that Min Huai Junzhu has both appearance and talent. Today, I know that the rumors are an underestimation.”

“Biao Sao is too complimentary. It is just everyone raising me up.” Min Huai Junzhu used this opportunity to examine Hua Xi Wan. “In front of you, how many females dare to call themselves beautiful?”

When Hua Xi Wan heard this, she smiled and shook her head. She said, half-sincerely and half-politely, “Even the most beautiful skin has a day when it will become old. Beauty is not everlasting.”

Min Huai Junzhu did not believe it, but she smiled and responded. She turned her head and found Yan Jin Qiu silently following behind them, looking like a young master of jade with great mannerisms.

“Min Huai Junzhu.” Hua Xi Wan suddenly put her hand on the other and said with a smile, “I heard before that Junzhu is skilled in poetry. I wonder if I will have the good fortune to hear Junzhu’s poetic work.”

“It is just some random writing—it cannot be called a work of poetry.” Min Huai Junzhu turned around in surprise. Maybe it was because she felt guilty inside that she felt the hand on the back of her hand was scorching hot.

“It is really rare to see two beauties on the same day.” The arrival of Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fei caused the restlessness in Min Huai Junzhu’s heart to decrease greatly. She smiled and curtsied to the other but felt bitter inside. Even though their ranks appeared the same, she knew very well that she could not compare to these two females. Her mother was honored as a princess, but because her grandmother was of a low birth and their Yuan Family was a ducal fu in decline, if she was not favored by the Empress, she would have even less to bolster her than she did now.

堂 tang: relatives with the same surname. 堂嫂 tang sao: father’s brother’s (older) son’s wife

“Tang Sao[5] is so beautiful and dares to laugh at us.” Hua Xi Wan and Sheng Junw.a.n.g Fei curtsied at the same time to each other. It was

unknown who irst grasped the other’s hand, but in a lash, the two appeared to be close sisters. “I think you are purposefully saying this and waiting for us to praise you.”

“You have found me out—what to do?” Hou s.h.i.+ laughed, covering her mouth.

Hua Xi Wan blinked her eyes. “If Tang Sao gives me a thousand taels of gold, ten thousand taels of silver, I can consider sealing my mouth.”

“I do not have so much money. Why don’t I pay you with myself, and be your attendant.” Hou s.h.i.+ lowered her head and sighed. “I hope you will take pity on me then.”

tang bo: elder male cousin on father’s side when referred to by a speaker who has married into the family (usually female). Here, Hua Xi Wan as Yan Jin Qiu’s wife is using tang bo to refer to Yan Jin Qiu’s elder male cousin on his paternal side, Yan Bo Yi.

“Such a beauty—how can I not pity you,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “But Tang Bo[6] would not bear it if the time comes, and I will become a criminal.”

Hou s.h.i.+ heard this. Her face lushed, and her smile became more sincere.

Min Huai Junzhu watched as the two people who had not conversed greatly before casually joked in front of her as though they were good sisters of many years. She smirked coldly inside. Who were they acting for? If there wasn’t His Highness the Crown Prince, these two would probably be ighting like cats and dogs.

She raised her head to imperceptibly look at Xian Junw.a.n.g and Sheng Junw.a.n.g. Xian Junw.a.n.g was silent with a smile, Sheng Junw.a.n.g was silent with an indifferent expression. The two walked side-by-side, but there was a distance of a pace between them.

Min Huai Junzhu moved her gaze away. She jerked the corner of her lips and wanted to smile, but in the end, she wasn’t able to.

If she married Xian Junw.a.n.g, not just taking care of his household, she would be willing to scheme on his behalf.

But it was a pity that Xiang w.a.n.g[i] had a wife, and she was just having a delusion.

[i] There is a famous poem called the “Shen Nv Fu.” It is a story describing how Xiang w.a.n.g encountered a G.o.ddess in his dreams, and how she looked. The G.o.ddess rejected Xiang w.a.n.g’s approach and then left at the end. But in this case, it is a reversal. Xiang w.a.n.g has a wife, and the “G.o.ddess” (Min Huai) is alone.

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Chapter Twenty: Drink in Her Stead

When the main guests arrived, Princess Rui He personally led the guests to see the scenery at the estate. In Hua Xi Wan’s view, the estate that had been decorated in a grand manner was not as beautiful as the other furen said, but she still cooperated and gave sighs of surprise.

After admiring the exquisiteness of the estate, the game of throwing into the jar that both males and females could partic.i.p.ate in started. Hua Xi Wan looked at the long and thin jar, and then at the male and female guests who were rubbing their hands eagerly. She tried to make her expression more excited.

“We are old, so we’ll just watch you young people play.” Xu w.a.n.g Fei and the older female guests indicated that it would be enough for them to sit at the side and be judges. The other people did not have objections since it was the young people who liked playing this game. Those older did not have good enough vision and could not throw the arrow into the mouth of the jar.

Princess Rui He was the mistress and she should let the guest go irst, but because she was the only daughter of the Holy One and was favored, naturally no one tried to compete with her to go irst. After a few rounds of letting the other go irst, Princess Rui He threw the irst arrow. The arrow brushed against the mouth of the jar and almost dropped in.

堂弟妹 tang dimei: father’s brother’s (younger) son’s wife “Oh, almost.” Princess Rui He clapped and took an arrow from a servant girl. She turned and swept the crowd with her gaze, then presented the arrow to Hua Xi Wan. “Tang Dimei[1] is a new wife—you should throw the second arrow. However, if you do not get it in, the punishment is a cup of wine.” When she said this, Princess Rui He smiled ambiguously at the male guests who were standing at the side. “If someone doesn’t bear for her to be punished, they can subst.i.tute for her and drink three cups.”

Hua Xi Wan took the arrow and shook her head with a smile. She said, “This is not good.” Finis.h.i.+ng, she walked forward a few steps and threw the arrow crisply at the jar.

The arrow hit the jar and then landed at the side

弟媳 dixi: younger brother’s wife “Dixi[2] does not have as good a skill as Imperial Sister.” Hua Xi Wan sighed and then turned to look at Yan Jin Qiu.

“My wife is not good at drinking wine. Let me drink the three cups for her.” Yan Jin Qiu walked forward next to Hua Xi Wan. He bowed towards Princess Rui He with a faint smile. “Please, Imperial Sister, have mercy.”

Princess Rui He rubbed her palms together and smiled. “I just knew someone would take care of his wife. Come, pour wine for Xian Junw.a.n.g.”

The wine was quickly presented. Three cups the size of a woman’s ist were illed to the brim with wine. Yan Jin Qiu did not prevaricate, reaching out and throwing his head back to drain the irst cup. He used his index inger to wipe away the drop at the corner of his mouth. He laughed lowly and said, “Good win.” Finis.h.i.+ng, he smiled at Hua Xi Wan and then drained the second cup.

When the womenfolk saw this, they laughed and said how much he cared for his wan(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});g fei. There were those who felt admiration, but they only thought about it, and on the surface, they only showed warmth.

Min Huai Junzhu watched as Yan Jin Qiu unhesitatingly drank three cups of wine for Hua Xi Wan, and couldn’t help but feel a thread of discontent and anger. Other than having some beauty, what part of this woman was a match for Xian Junw.a.n.g? She clearly knew that if she did not hit the target, Xian Junw.a.n.g would have to drink on her behalf, yet she had been so uncaring. She really was hateful.

After the three cups of wine went down, Yan Jin Qiu’s expression did not change. He gracefully took the arrow that Princess Rui He handed him. Under the eyes of the crowd, he easily threw the arrow into the jar.

“Great.” Princess Rui He smiled and said, “I just knew that this little game wouldn’t be a dif iculty for you.”

“Just good luck. Imperial Sister is too complimentary.” Yan Jin Qiu took the cup of tea that a servant brought over and rinsed his mouth of the taste of alcohol.

Hua Xi Wan handed her handkerchief to him. He took it with a smile and wiped his mouth before putting the handkerchief into his sleeve. “Next time, I’ll teach you when you throw. It is all right if you cannot throw it in; my alcohol tolerance is pretty good.”

“Won’t fall after a thousand cups?” Hua Xi Wan was going to start joking with Yan Jin Qiu when she heard the servant report that Lin Ping Junzhu and her junma had arrived.

Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow and looked at Yan Jin Qiu whose expression had not changed one bit. She curled her lips and thought, this Lin Ping Junzhu had come as expected. She had been right.

Just moments later, she saw several servant girls usher a male and female over. The well-dressed female seemed just into her twenties, and there wasn’t much about her appearance that was similar to Yan Jin Qiu. She could only be said to be clean and delicate. However, the youth beside her had red lips, white teeth, an elegant presence. He had a good, leshy body.

After Lin Ping Junzhu arrived, she apologized to Princess Rui He. She said that she had encountered some matters on the road, so they had come late.

Princess Rui He smiled and pa.s.sed this matter. Then she pointed at Hua Xi Wan and said, “You have just been talking to me. Look who that is?”

Lin Ping Junzhu followed her inger and turned to look at Hua Xi Wan. After some examination, she said neutrally, “This must be my dimei Hua s.h.i.+. A good appearance.”

It probably was that her words were too incorrect, that all the womenfolk present detected something was not right. In this moment, no one spoke. Several people looked in sympathy at Hua Xi Wan.

姐夫 jiefu: elder sister’s husband “Jiejie, Jiefu,[3] greetings.” Hua Xi Wan went forward and curtsied, and then looked smilingly at the junma, Luo Zhong Zheng. “Jiefu also has a good appearance.”

When the words came out, some womenfolk used their hand and handkerchiefs to cover their mouth and the smile that was revealed. Four years ago, because Lin Ping Junzhu was attracted to this Scholar Luo’s appearance, she had made a ruckus to get married to him. Now

she was being so impolite to this dimei that she had never seen before when she had just returned to Jing—no wonder the junw.a.n.g fei was not giving her face.

弟弟 didi: younger brother “Didi[4] really has a good wife. Her conduct and education are rare to see.” Lin Ping Junzhu had not expected Hua Xi Wan to speak to her so. Her expression was slightly ugly. As to Luo Zhong Zhen who had been praised by Hua Xi Wan to have good looks while she was actually implying that he was a boy toy living based on his appearance, there was no anger on his face.

“Xi Wan has always had this personality. Even Imperial Grandmother, the Emperor and Empress praised her and are worried that I will bully her,” Yan Jin Qiu said neutrally. “If Xi Wan was not rare, why would the Emperor decree her in marriage to me.”

When Lin Ping Junzhu, heard this, her expression became uglier. Luo Zhong Zheng beside her spoke irst. “It is a cause for celebration for Didi to marry such a beauty.”

Hearing Luo Zhong Zheng speak, Lin Ping Junzhu’s expression was ugly, but she did not speak again. After glancing at Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan, she sat down at the side with a dark face.

The womenfolk present saw this, and while they did not show it, they did not understand. Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu was Lin Ping Junzhu’s paternal family. Her parents had pa.s.sed, and there was only her younger brother left to be of aid to her. Why would she make this relations.h.i.+p so strained? Wasn’t this pus.h.i.+ng her didi further away from her?

Regardless of what Lin Ping Junzhu intended with her actions, based on Xian Junw.a.n.g’s att.i.tude towards Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei and how Xian Junw.a.n.g Fei appeared when she faced Lin Ping Junzhu, some of the womenfolk already decided to stay away from Lin Ping Junzhu. One was a junzhu who had a distant relations.h.i.+p with her paternal family, and her husband’s family was not high in status. The other was a junw.a.n.g fei who was loved by her paternal family and had married into a n.o.ble family. Those who had eyes knew which one they could not afford to offend.

表姐 biao jie: mother’s sibling’s (older) daughter (here); or father’s sister’s (older) daughter

“It is perfect for Biao Jie[5] to come now. Right now, we are playing tossing the arrow into the jar. You should come play as well.” Min Huai Junzhu saw the atmosphere was frigid and took out an arrow to present to Lin Ping Junzhu. Pulling the other’s hand, she smiled and explained the rules of the game. “In the past, Biao Jie would score nine times out of ten. Even now, I do not forget how valiant you were then.”

“That was a few years ago.” Lin Ping Junzhu took her hand out of Min Huai Junzhu’s hand and walked to the line. Her throw did not go in. She said with a faint smile, “I haven’t played this for the last two years. My skill has rusted.”

When Hua Xi Wan heard this, her eyebrows s.h.i.+fted. When prestigious families invited guests to banquets, they would frequently play elegant games like this one. Lin Ping Junzhu had married and moved to Jiang City four years ago. How could it be that she didn’t even know anymore how to play games like this that were common to prestigious families?

When the wine was presented, Lin Ping Junzhu did not try to avoid it. She used her sleeve to cover her mouth and drank. Wiping her lips, she said, “You all can play this. My skill is not it to be seen.”

The people smiled and said a few things when they saw this. After a round, it was Hua Xi Wan’s turn again. Even though she was not good at throwing, she had support.

Under Yan Jin Qiu’s guidance, the second arrow still landed outside the jar. She said with a helpless expression, “It seems that I have no hopes of becoming an expert in this life.”

When she said this, she caused the womenfolk to laugh. Yan Jin Qiu also laughed and shook his head. He said, “I’m getting closer to a thousand cups.” Finis.h.i.+ng, without needing any urging, he drank down three cups.

Lin Ping Junzhu looked at the three empty wine cups on the tray and instantly felt that the wine she had just drunk was uncomfortably burning. Even her tongue felt bitter.

After a busy while, everyone went to the front to eat. After they were full, it was time to admire plays and sons. When they were halfway through, a taijian from the palace came with a message from the Empress summoning Princess Rui He and Lin Ping Junzhu into the palace.

Since the mistress was going to leave, there was no reason for the guests to stay and play. Everyone got on their carriages and left the princess’ estate.

Hua Xi Wan sat on the carriage and looked at the busy streets rather than Yan Jin Qiu’s expression. “Jin Qiu, does Elder Sister have some misunderstanding about me?”

Yan Jin Qiu gripped her hand. “Do not think too much.”

Hua Xi Wan turned her head to look at him. She smiled and did not speak.

“You are the mistress of Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu. It is not important if other people misunderstand, as long as I do not misunderstand you.” He reached out and caressed her hairpin. “I only believe what I am willing to believe. How other people are is not connected to me.”

These words meant that he would not keep the words of other people on his mind, he would not accept the in luence of other people and was willing to protect her?

Hua Xi Wan still had a smile. She knew that Yan Jin Qiu was not as simple as he appeared on the surface, and Yan Jin Qiu was almost deliberately letting her ind this. Yan Jin Qiu was hoping that she could stand on the same battle line as him? But she was too lazy. A person who wasn’t even willing to stand, how could she step onto the battle ield?

When the carriage just arrived at the gates of the junw.a.n.g fu, Hua Xi Wan got off and saw the carriage from Second Uncle Hua was by the gate. She paused in her steps and glanced at Yan Jin Qiu before walking shoulder-to-shoulder with him through the gates of Xian Junw.a.n.g Fu.

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Glossary

太太 taitai: married woman, madam 府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)w.a.n.g fu: prince’s estate/compound ⽒ s.h.i.+: clan/maiden name 郡王妃 junw.a.n.g fei: the of icial wife of a junw.a.n.g [1]堂妹 tang mei: father’s brother’s (younger) daughter ⼤嫂 dasao: eldest brother’s wife 嫡 di: child born of the of icial wife 郡主 junzhu: t.i.tle given to a daughter of a qinw.a.n.g ( irst-rank prince), or to a female of the Imperial Family by the Emperor’s decree 郡王 junw.a.n.g: second-rank prince; also referred to as junw.a.n.g ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness” [2]堂姐 tang jie: father’s brother’s (older) daughter 夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady, referring to the legitimate wife [3]太医 taiyi: imperial physician. It is an of icial position. [4]舅舅 jiujiu: mother’s brother 庶 shu: child born of a concubine 王 w.a.n.g: short for qinw.a.n.g (亲王) or irst-rank prince Chapter Twenty-one: Illusion

As expected, when Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan just walked in through the door, a servant came to report that the second taitai of Hua Fu had been waiting for almost four hours at the fu.

“I know.” Hua Xi Wan did not wait for Yan Jin Qiu to speak and said, “Jin Qiu is busy. I will go see to Second Aunt.” It would be much easier if only she came out about this matter. If Yan Jin Qiu was pulled in, it would not be so easy to rid themselves of this matter.

Yan Jin Qiu who usually did not bear to leave Hua Xi Wan at this time did not hesitate. He nodded and led Mu Tong and the others to another yard. This was akin to saying he gave Hua Xi Wan the full power to decide how to deal with this matter.

“I am going to the study. If there is anything, send someone to tell me.” It was almost as though Yan Jin Qiu said, don’t be afraid—even if there is a problem, he will take care of it.

Hua Xi Wan nodded, then she had the servant go to Zhang s.h.i.+ and invite her to the side hall to wait. She would go to the inner rooms to change her attire before meeting the guest.

“Junw.a.n.g Fei, has Second Taitai come now for the matter of Master Zhang’s death?” Zi Shan picked out a gold b.u.t.ter ly hairpin to secure Hua Xi Wan’s hair. “Second Taitai has always thought herself to come from a scholarly family and looks down on our taitai for coming from a prestigious martial family. Why is she coming to beg us now?”

“A person in the world cannot avoid encountering matters that would f(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});orce them to bend down. So usually, do not look down at other people based on their ident.i.ty. That is why the old people say that it will be thirty years in the west, thirty years in the east.” Hua Xi Wan did not criticize Zi Shan’s words for being ugly. Her second aunt’s usual conduct wasn’t something that was good to see. She only learned the high att.i.tudes of the scholars, but did not have their talent or their style. What was there to be proud of?

After putting on her earrings, Hua Xi Wan rubbed the blood jade pendant and said nonchalantly, “Let’s go.”

She really was not a generous person. She had seen how Zhang s.h.i.+ had treated and slighted her mother in all these years. Such a “relative”—if she would repay a slight with a boon, that would be strange.

堂妹 tang mei: father’s brother’s (younger) daughter In the side hall of the front hall of the junw.a.n.g fu, Zhang s.h.i.+ looked at the decorations in the hall. Her hand trembled as she held the teacup. Her high posture had disappeared. When Hua Yi Liu saw her state, she held her mother’s hand and said, “Mother, do not panic. Tang Mei[1] will quickly come.”

“Yi Liu, you have to talk with Junw.a.n.g Fei. She has always been good to you girls. If you speak, she will give more consideration.” Zhang s.h.i.+ knew very well that Hua Xi Wan had seen her conduct in treating her dasao these years. Even though the girl was not one to speak a lot, it could be seen from the other’s cold att.i.tude towards her that she remembered these things.

Hua Yi Liu felt slightly bitter. Mother had come out with her today probably so she could beg her tang mei. Listening to her mother’s words, she felt slightly discomforted. They were all daughters of the

Hua Family. Because her maternal family was the Zhang Family, there had been many who came to offer marriage. On the other hand, Hua Xi Wan, the di daughter of the marquis fu, had been disliked by the scholarly families because of the rumors and because her maternal family was a martial family. So no one had ever asked for her. She had felt that the rumors outside were exaggerating, but she had felt good in a deep part inside. Otherwise, at the Hundred Flowers Festival last year when Min Huai Junzhu had asked her about Hua Xi Wan, she would not have purposefully misled Min Huai Junzhu to believe the outside rumos.

She remembered the regret she had felt when she returned home. She had also felt discomforted at having such thoughts. It was only a few months later when the Emperor decreed marriage for Hua Xi Wan that she put down the regret she felt. At least, Tang Mei was not living poorly due to the rumors outside, and was able to marry Xian Junw.a.n.g, someone many females liked. This was a matter that countless girls yearned for and could not obtain.

Originally, she had been happy, but when she saw her proud mother bowing and sc.r.a.ping in order to beg Hua Xi Wan to do something, and pulling her down as well, the happiness inside changed into mixed feelings and caused her pain.

Just as Hua Yi Liu was dazing, the sound of the servant girls voicing greetings pa.s.sed through. She raised her head and saw several beautiful servant girls ushering Hua Xi Wan in. She seemed to be the center of attention and extremely n.o.ble.

Zhang s.h.i.+ saw Hua Xi Wan enter and stood up from the chair after tensing for a moment. Before she could curtsey, Bai Xia supported her.

堂姐 tang jie: father’s brother’s (older) daughter “Second Aunt, Tang Jie.[2]” Hua Xi Wan smiled at the two and indicated for the servant girls to support them to their seats. “I went to Princess Rui He’s estate today and did not know of your arrival. I made you wait for a long time.”

“No, it is us who came without an invitation. That has nothing to do with Junw.a.n.g Fei,” Zhang s.h.i.+ said, and forced a smile. “I heard my mother mention what happened today. It has shocked Junw.a.n.g Fei.”

“This is a great criminal matter—no one wants it to occur. Second Aunt, please restrain your grief and accept fate,” Hua Xi Wan said. “How is Of icial Zhang and Zhang Furen?”

太医 taiyi: imperial physician. It is an of icial position. Zhang s.h.i.+ used her handkerchief to wipe her red eyes. Her voice was slightly hoa.r.s.e but did not tremble. “My mother has fallen ill immediately after returning to the fu. The taiyi[3] who was requested came and said it was an illness of the heart. My brother is the only son of the family, and my parents love him greatly. Now that they have encountered this matter, the two old people are unable to accept it. I have come today to ask Junw.a.n.g Fei to say a few words for my paternal family to Junw.a.n.g Ye. We are not asking for anything else, just that my brother’s killer is found.”

“We are one family—we should not say such courteous things. I heard that the Emperor has already sent out a decree for Sheng Junw.a.n.g to help the Judicial Of ice carry out the investigation. Our family’s junw.a.n.g is not in charge of this matter, but it is ine for him to help ask a few things,” Hua Xi Wan said with a slight crease of the bow. “Sheng Junw.a.n.g is usually just and fair. I believe he will get to the bottom of this matter.”

Zhang s.h.i.+ knew that the Emperor had sent a decree for Sheng Junw.a.n.g to take charge of this matter. It would not be very good for Xian Junw.a.n.g to pay too much attention. But their Zhang Clan had never been close to the members of the Imperial Family, and Sheng Junw.a.n.g had a cold personality, so they had no one to come to for help. They could only turn and go to Xian Junw.a.n.g.

She had originally wanted to ask Hua Xi Wan to agree to help them learn the process of the investigation, but she knew that even if Hua Xi Wan agreed, Xian Junw.a.n.g would not do this, and could not do this. So after wavering for a while, she could only voice her gratefulness a few times.

“The day is dark. Second Aunt, Tang Mei, stay and have a meal.” Hua Xi Wan looked at the sky outside. “This crude house does not have many rare items, but there are seasonal fruits and vegetables.”

Zhang s.h.i.+ wanted to agree immediately, but she understood if she really did this, regardless of whether Xian Junw.a.n.g helped or not, he would have a low opinion of them.

“We should not refuse Junw.a.n.g Fei’s good intentions,” Zhang s.h.i.+ said with a smile on her pale face, “but our fu has already prepared food for us. We will not disturb Junw.a.n.g Fei and Junw.a.n.g Ye.”

“Since that is the case, I will not force Second Aunt and Tang Jie to stay.” Hua Xi Wan used Bai Xia’s hand as help to stand up. “The day is late. I will not send you off.”

“Junw.a.n.g Fei, please stay.” Zhang s.h.i.+ stood as well. She curtsied towards Hua Xi Wan. “I will trouble you for this matter.”

Hua Xi Wan returned half a curtsey and sent Zhang s.h.i.+ and Hua Yi Liu out of the side hall. She stopped and watched as the two walked off before she said coolly, “Return to the main yard.”

On the carriage after leaving the junw.a.n.g fu, Zhang s.h.i.+ inally showed a grimace. Hua Xi Wan’s att.i.tude had been polite, and she had said beautiful words, but in reality, she had not agreed to anything. But Zhang s.h.i.+ could not ind a reason to speak again, and she did not have the face to continue. In the beginning, she had looked down on Dasao’s birth, and now she was begging the other’s daughter—this was a joke.

Hua Xi Wan really had a great upbringing to not have left her outside the door. She would not be able to do such a thing.

舅舅 jiujiu: mother’s brother “Mother, Xi Wan has agreed to help. Do not worry,” Hua Yi Liu comforted her in a warm voice. “It is hard to accept Jiujiu’s[4] death, but you need to take care of your body.

Zhang s.h.i.+ patted her hand and looked at her uncomprehending eyes. She could not openly say that while Hua Xi Wan’s words were good to hear on the surface, in reality, they were of no help at all. In the end, she only sighed.

In the past, she had felt that while her daughter’s beauty was not as good as Hua Xi Wan’s, and her talents not as good as Hua Chu Yu’s, she was at least a warm and considerate person. Now when she compared her daughter to Hua Xi Wan, she found that she had raised her daughter to be too naïve. She didn’t know what to do when her daughter married.

In the main yard, after Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu used the evening meal, they sat at the stone table outside to admire the moon as they chatted.

Hua Xi Wan did not like how uncomfortable it was to sit on the stone bench, so she had Bai Xia add a soft cus.h.i.+on. She propped her chin up on one hand as she looked at the clean moon. She lazily listened and did not speak.

“In my childhood, I fought with my younger shu brother and almost fell into the pool in the fu.” Yan Jin Qiu poured a cup of tea for himself. After blowing, he took a light sip. “After Father-w.a.n.g pa.s.sed, and the shu brother and I split our households, I had them ill up the pool.”

In other fu, while the shu sons did not quail in front of the di sons, it was almost that. It really was interesting that the di and shu sons of Xian w.a.n.g Fu had managed to ight.

As though he knew what Hua Xi Wan was thinking, Yan Jin Qiu idly rubbed the teacup in his hand. “My mother pa.s.sed away early, and I was raised at Imperial Grandmother’s place, so I am not close to my sister. After I returned to the fu, because I was the only di son, the servants liked to latter me. This caused my shu brother and my sister to feel discontent, and after a while, there was a ruckus.”

“And then?” Hua Xi Wan looked at the smile hanging on Yan Jin Qiu’s lips and asked, “Did Father-in-law know this?”

“He did not attend to the matters of the inner compound, but he knew of this matter.” When he mentioned Xian w.a.n.g, Yan Jin Qiu’s tone was very calm. “Later, my shu brother and my sister were scolded. Fatherw.a.n.g also started to dislike the shu brother’s birth mother. In order to prevent a state where di and shu are mixed up, Father-w.a.n.g started to distance himself from the shu brother. Before death, he only said to give the shu brother one-tenth of the property.”

This matter seemed easy to say, as though it had nothing to do with Yan Jin Qiu, but Hua Xi Wan looked at this man who was smiling warmly and felt an indescribable wave of cold.

Translator Ramblings: The irony … … and Yan Jin Qiu is a very bad storyteller.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

郡王爷 junwang ye, 王爷 wang ye: His [Your] Royal Highness郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound郡王 junwang: second-rank prince[1]堂兄 tang xiong: father’s brother’s (older) son[2]堂弟 tang di: father’s brother’s (younger) son⽒ shi: clan/maiden name堂伯 tang bo: elder male cousin on father’s side (for a man) when referred to by a (female) speaker who has married in (as the aforementioned man’s wife) tang dimei: father’s brother’s son’s wifeChapter Twentytwo: To Suspect

堂弟妹

Waking up in the morning, Hua Xi Wan opened her eyes and saw Yan Jin Qiu smiling at her as he sat on the bed. She smiled, lipped her body and avoided his eyes. She lay on the soft pillow and said, “Are you not going to court today?”

“The Emperor’s body is not comfortable today, so court is not open.” Yan Jin Qiu reached out to brush the hair next to her face, and his thumb brushed past the faint red mark behind her ear. He said with a warm smile, “Get up and eat some breakfast.”

Hua Xi Wan’s entire body lay on the soft bed. With a crease in her brow, she said, “I do not want to move.”

Yan Jin Qiu laughed lightly and then bent to give a light kiss to her forehead. “It is not very good to sleep too much. Let’s sleep after the noon meal.”

The servant girls serving in the room saw the interactions between their master and mistress and lowered their heads in embarrassment. Junwang Ye was really warm and considerate to Junwang Fei.

“People have their own habits and likes in their life.” Hua Xi Wan unwillingly sat up. “Some people like power, some people like money, some like beauty. I do not have many likes, but I like eating and sleeping. If I do not have these two in my life, there is nothing to look forward to.”

“What are you saying?” Yan Jin Qiu’s brow furrowed, but when he looked at Hua Xi Wan’s drowsy expression, he sighed helplessly. “When I am here, I will guarantee that you will taste the best food in your life, will have no worries, and there will not be a time when you do not have anything to look forward to.”

“It is because Jin Qiu protects me that I dare to say such things.” Hua Xi Wan lay on Yan Jin Qiu’s legs with a smile. “This is probably called having no fear?”

Yan Jin Qiu laughed lightly again. He reached out to caress her silky hair, his eyes seeming soft and emotional.

Hua Xi Wan’s inger twisted around the lower patterns embroidered on his robe, a smile in her brows.

When the servants in the room saw this, they thought admiringly, even the most perfect pairing would just be so.

Outside Xian Junwang Fu, Yan Bo Yi pulled the reins and got off the horse. He threw the horse crop in his hand to the follower behind him and said, “Go knock on the door.”

The gatekeeper guard of Xian Junwang Fu had already recognized Yan Bo Yi. Before his servant could knock, a servant came to open the gate. A well-dressed steward came forward, bowed and said, “This small one greets Sheng Junwang.”

“Is your junwang ye home?” Sheng Junwang glanced at this steward. This steward’s attire was neat, and his mannerisms were polite. It could be seen that the fu was well-regulated.

“Sheng Junwang, Junwang Ye is in the fu. Please come into the fu for a while, and this one will instantly send someone to report to our junwang ye.” The steward bowed and made a movement to usher. Out of the corner of his eyes, he glanced over the subordinates and guards before he lowered his eyes.

“Trouble you.” Yan Bo Yi nodded at the steward and walked in.

“Do not dare, do not dare.” The steward bowed even lower as he ushered Sheng Junwang to the wang fu’s main hall.

In the main yard, after Hua Xi Wan ate and rinsed, she said as she washed her hands, “Since Jin Qiu is not going out today, why don’t you accompany me to feed the gold ish?”

“All right.” Yan Jin Qiu was wiping his hands. When he heard Hua Xi Wan’s suggestion, he instantly agreed. “Right. A few days ago, I had Mu Tong order a few sets of jewelry for you and had him clean out all the jewelry in the wang fu stores. In the afternoon, I will have people deliver them to you. If you like any, use them. If you do not, keep them in your private stores to bestow to other people.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan did not urge Yan Jin Qiu to be frugal, or say that she did not like the jewelry. She naturally nodded and said, “So much jewelry—when will I be able to wear it all?”

“No matter. If you cannot wear it all, you can look and play with it every day,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a smile. “Everything in the wang fu is yours. You can do whatever you like.”

Hua Xi Wan was preparing to speak when she saw a irst-rank steward hurriedly walk in. The steward bowed to them and said, “Junwang Ye, Junwang Fei, Sheng Junwang has come to visit.”

“Sheng Junwang?” The smile on Yan Jin Qiu’s face faded. He and Yan Bo Yi on the surface were not close, and there was even less between them in private. Right now, this person had come without even sending a

card. It seemed that this was not a good matter. He gave an apologetic smile to Hua Xi Wan, stood, and said, “I will go and return shortly.”

Hua Xi Wan nodded slightly. Looking at the back of Yan Jin Qiu’s igure, she slowly put down the towel in her hand. After sitting for a moment, she touched her gold hairpin with a phoenix holding a pearl in its mouth. She said to Bai Xia, “Let’s go and see.”

Bai Xia did not understand why her mistress suddenly decided to go to the main hall. However, she and the other senior servant girls helped her go out of the yard.

堂兄 tang xiong: father’s brother’s (older) son When Yan Jin Qiu walked into the main hall, he saw Yan Bo Yi sitting in the guest seat with the tea by his hand untouched. He walked forward with a faint smile, bowed and then said, “Tang Xiong[1], how come you have the time today to come to this crude residence?”

堂弟 tang di: father’s brother’s (younger) son Yan Bo Yi stood and bowed back before saying, “Today, I have come to disturb Tang Di[2] for the case of Master Zhang. I have some questions to ask Tang Di—can you resolve my them?”

“What questions can Tang Xiong not understand?” Yan Jin Qiu smiled and sat down on the main seat. “If I know, I will de initely tell you.”

Yan Bo Yi looked at Yan Jin Qiu’s mannerisms, and he said with dark eyes, “According to the coroner, Master Zhang’s eyes and tongue were taken out about a month and a half ago. The person who kidnapped Master Zhang was vicious, and after putting him through many methods of torture, he only killed and threw the corpse away a few days ago. What do you think is the status of a person who can kill someone and then secretly throw the corpse onto an of icial street?”

Yan Jin Qiu’s brow creased, and he said, “Since this person has kidnapped Master Zhang, why did he throw the corpse onto the of icial street? Was it on purpose?”

“Only the culprit would know that,” Yan Bo Yi said with a cold expression. “What were you doing a month and a half ago?”

“What does Sheng Junwang mean by these words?” Yan Jin Qiu’s smile disappeared, and he spoke with a serious expression. “It is best for you to say some things clearly.”

“Some people have said they saw you argue with Master Zhang, so I have come to ask. Tang Di, please have understanding.” Yan Bo Yi picked up the teacup to take a sip. “I believe that Tang Di will give me a satisfactory answer.”

“So that is how it is.” Yan Jin Qiu’s expression eased. “Tang Xiong should not have forgotten that more than a month ago, it was when I had just married my junwang fei. The day when Master Zhang disappeared, it probably was the second or third day after my marriage.”

“It is the third day.” Yan Bo Yi put down the teacup. “In the afternoon of that day, you went to the Crown Prince’s fu.”

Yan Jin Qiu stilled, thought back, and then nodded. “These two years, Master Zhang has been outstanding in literary pursuits and could not avoid being proud. His tone and speech have occasionally offended, but I have not cared since the other is also a relative of my junwang fei’s paternal family.”

Master Zhang thought that Yan Jin Qiu’s talents were not as good as his, and he was only admired by the people in Jing due to his appearance. So he usually argued with Yan Jin Qiu in poetry. Yet no matter how much he was unwilling to accept it, he always lost the arguments. The proud Master Zhang felt it was extremely hard to accept, so every time he mentioned Yan Jin Qiu, there was frequently impoliteness.

Yan Bo Yi also knew this, so he did not ask further about this matter. He turned to say, “When did you return to the fu after you went to the Crown Prince’s fu?”

Yan Jin Qiu shook his head. “I do not remember this.” He thought carefully. “Maybe my attendant will remember. Someone come— summon Mu Tong.”

“Junwang Ye, you do not need to summon Mu Tong. Even though Mu Tong is clever, he will not remember a matter as insigni icant as this.”

Yan Bo Yi heard a female voice come from outside the door. He turned to look and saw a woman dressed in a palace dress covered in lying cranes and lucky clouds. She walked in, and with every step, the phoenix wings between her hair shook slightly.

“Hua shi greets Tang Bo.” The female curtsied to him before saying with a smile, “Sorry to disturb the conversation, but I came when I heard the servants say that Tang Bo has come for the case of Master Zhang. I have just come to listen, since the Zhang Family are in-laws of my Hua Family.”

Yan Bo Yi turned his gaze away and returned the bow. “Tang Dimei is too polite. I have just come to inquire.”

“I have heard before that Tang Bo is a just person, and naturally I will not suspect Tang Bo’s conduct. But this matter is related to my husband and the relatives of my paternal family, so I have to appear.” Hua Xi Wan sat down on the chair at the side. “Because it was the third day after my marriage, and the next day would be the day I visited my paternal home, I was nervous and remember the events of that day exceptionally clearly. I remember that my junwang ye suddenly received an invitation from the Crown Prince Fu and left. I originally heard that the Crown Prince was keeping him for the evening meal, but who knew that when it was time for the evening meal, Wang Ye had already returned by then. Later, he stayed for more than an hour in the study before he ate together with me. At the time, I even had the people from the Food Room add a few more dishes that Junwang Ye likes.”

“Since that is the case, I will not disturb Tang Di and Tang Dimei.” Yan Bo Yi stood and bowed towards the two. He exchanged a few more courtesies with the two before he left Xian Junwang Fu.

Coming out of Xian Junwang Fu, his attendant Qing He said, “Junwang Ye, are we not going to investigate Xian Junwang further?”

“His expression was natural. He was irritated that this matter was connected to him, but he still said honestly that he did not remember the events of that day. It shows that nothing on that day was a special event to him. He does not need to deliberately remember time or fake a time to deal with suspicions from other people.” Yan Bo Yi’s expression was slightly cold. He did not say what was next. That was, if the matter was connected to Yan Jin Qiu and he could still act like this, it meant that this person had a deep, scheming mind. He would have already erased all clues. Even if he tried to investigate, there would not be anything.

Qing He also felt that the matter did not have too much to do with Xian Junwang. Xian Junwang was such a good person. How could he take Master Zhang’s life just because of some words? Also, Master Zhang had been disrespectful to Xian Junwang for a very long time. If Xian Junwang was going to kill him, he would have done it a long time ago. Why would he wait until his marriage?

He thought about what Xian Junwang Fei had said and couldn’t help but say, “Junwang Ye, just now, Xian Junwang Fei mentioned that the Crown Prince originally invited Xian Junwang to the evening meal but suddenly changed his mind. Do you think…” If one sent an invitation for

a meal, most people would not change their mind when the guest was halfway to the host’s place.

“Close your mouth.” Sheng Junwang’s expression instantly darkened. “This matter has nothing to do with the Crown Prince.”

“Yes.” Qing He instantly lowered his head.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”⽒ shi: clan/maiden name府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang妾 qie: shortened and very general name for concubine通房 tongfang: the lowest rank in concubine嫡 di: refers to the legitimate/ irst wife[1] ⽼爷 laoye: old master, lord; respectful address for the head of the house太太 taitai: married woman, madam Chapter Twenty-Three: Anger

“Junwang Ye, you have returned?” Hou shi was embroidering a pouch by the window. Seeing Yan Bo Yi come in, she put down what she had in her hands and took in front of Yan Bo Yi the cup of tea a servant girl had poured. Seeing that his expression was unhappy, she asked considerately, “Is there something that is not going well?”

“Nothing.” Yan Bo Yi took the teacup and had a sip. He waved for the servants in the room to leave before he said, “This case is connected to many people. In the next few days, if anyone comes to the fu to ask for details, just pretend to not know.”

Because Yan Bo Yi rarely talked about affairs of the outside with Hou shi of his own accord, Hou shi rejoiced when she saw he was willing to mention this matter to her. She then said worriedly, “Is the culprit someone from a prestigious family?”

Yan Bo Yi shook his head and didn’t want to speak about it. “Have the servants send up the meal.”

Seeing this, Hou shi knew that he would not continue to discuss outside matters with her. She was slightly disappointed, but she still sent someone to arrange the evening meal and helped Yan Bo Yi change out of his outer robe.

The two silently inished eating. When Hou shi saw Yan Bo Yi remaining seated rather than leave, she hesitated and then said, “Junwang Ye, the day is still early. Why don’t we go for a walk in the garden. I heard the servants say that the lilies in the garden are both fragrant and beautiful…”

“Let’s speak of this tomorrow. Later, I have to go back to the Judicial Of ice to work on this case.” Yan Bo Yi stood up from his seat and spoke with an indifferent expression. “I’ll have to trouble you to spend more effort on the fu.”

“What are you saying?” Hou shi warmly put an insect-repelling pouch on his waist. “I am your junwang fei—it is my duty to manage the wang fu. There is no trouble to speak of. Although it is early summer, the night is still cold. Take care not to get cold.”

Yan Bo Yi made a sound of acknowledgement. After the pouch was securely tied, he walked out of the room.

Hou shi looked at the empty room and her smile slowly faded. She looked dazedly outside. She thought of the Crown Prince’s Fu with its numerous qie and tongfang. She then thought of the two tongfang in

her fu who were not favored, and the sense of emptiness inside her instantly disappeared without a trace.

In Xian Junwang Fu, Mu Tong had the servants secretly scoop out the gold ish that had died due to overfeeding by Junwang Ye and Junwang Fei. He then had people switch them out for lively gold ish before he released a breath. It really was not not easy to ind in two to four hours so many gold ish with such bright scales and that were energetic. But Junwang Ye had ordered them to conceal from Junwang Fei what had happened to the gold ish. It had really worried him.

“Chief Steward Mu, what to do with these gold ish?” The young manservant looked at the bucket half-full of ish and didn’t know what to do.

“Of course they are to be buried. Do you need me to teach you about such a small matter?” Mu Tong waved his hand impatiently. “All right, take care of this as soon as possible. Do not let Junwang Fei ind out.”

“Yes.” The little manservant didn’t dare to dawdle and hurriedly lifted the bucket of ish with another manservant and hurried off.

Mu Tong patted at the two droplets of water on his outer robe. He took out a handkerchief to wipe his hands as he said to the other servants, “Work hard. If someone gossips, you do not need to speak in the future.”

“Yes.” The servants shook and wanted to shrink their heads back into their necks.

Mu Tong glanced at them and was very satis ied with their obedient attitude before he turned and hurried towards the main yard. When he entered the main yard, he saw Junwang Ye was sitting with Junwang Fei at the stone table in the yard. One person was drawing, the other was holding a plate of fruit and nuts as she admired the drawing.

Everyone in Jing knew that Xian Junwang was very skilled at drawing. Many people felt it was a great honor to obtain a work from Junwang Ye. It was a pity that Xian Junwang rarely made works for others. Even if the drawings piled up in the fu and illed the entire room, there were rarely any that were loating outside the fu.

Hua Xi Wan saw that Yan Jin Qiu had drawn a narcissus with a few strokes. After she examined it for a while, she shoved a sour and sweet piece of dried fruit into Yan Jin Qiu’s mouth. “In the past, I heard that Jin Qiu was skilled at drawing. I had assumed that those people said so to gain favor with you. It seems that the rumors are substantiated.”

Yan Jin Qiu did not like sour and sweet things. After hurriedly swallowing, he put down the pen. “But the rumors outside about you are not matching at all.”

Hua Xi Wan gave a carefree smile and shoved another piece of fruit into his mouth. She put down the plate of fruit and nuts. “Therefore

sometimes, what people say is the real truth, and sometimes it is not. Truth and lies, they depend on how people listen and judge.”

Mu Tong saw Junwang Fei shove two piece of dried fruit into Junwang Ye’s mouth and couldn’t help but inhale inside. He had followed Junwang Ye for many years and knew that the other never touched anything sweet and sour. Today, he had managed to swallow it without changing expression. It could be seen how much weight Junwang Fei carried with Junwang Ye.

After she inished admiring the drawing, the sky darkened. Hua Xi Wan looked at the moon that had already risen and suddenly said, “Sheng Junwang’s words today were slightly strange.”

Yan Jin Qiu’s eyebrows shifted slightly; his face held a smile. “Oh?”

Hua Xi Wan had the same smile on her face. “You are a junwang. His questions… They seemed pointed, but they really avoided the matter.” Yan Jin Qiu was a junwang. If he secretly kidnapped Master Zhang, why did he have to prove what he was doing at the time? Did he have to personally go to capture the person?

Sheng Junwang had come with such pomp and circumstance to Xian Junwang Fu to ask questions, and made outsiders feel that he was just. Even if Xian Junwang had the smallest bit of likelihood that he was involved, while Sheng Junwang came to ask questions in person, he did not really pull Yan Jin Qiu into this, and he would not offend the entire Xian Junwang Fu.

There were never truly just people in the Imperial House. If there were, no one would like them. They would be isolated and ignored by all the imperial clansmen. They wouldn’t be like Sheng Junwang. He didn’t just have a good reputation outside, he was also doing very well at court.

Yan Jin Qiu’s gaze had been on Hua Xi Wan’s body this whole time. When she inished speaking, his smile became slightly complex. “Why has Xi Wan thought to ask about this?”

Hua Xi Wan’s smile did not change. “We are husband and wife—what can we not talk about?”

“There naturally isn’t anything we cannot talk about.” Yan Jin Qiu walked next to her and slightly pinched the lobe of her ear. The red mark behind her ear from last night had faded slightly. He said in a hoarse and deep voice, “The time is late. Why don’t we rest early?”

The servants heard this and silently took a few steps back. When Mu Tong saw this, he also followed. As servants, they irst had to learn to be perceptive. Otherwise, it was useless no matter how smart or capable they were.

After the night passed, many people in Jing knew that Sheng Junwang had gone to Xian Junwang Fu to ask about the details of the case. Even though some praised Sheng Junwang for being a methodical person, almost everyone felt that Xian Junwang was innocent. How could such a noble person do such a cruel thing? Also, Master Zhang had offended

many people in Jing. Not many of those offended would be as generous as Xian Junwang.

The news passed to the fu of Hua Xi Wan’s second uncle, Hua Zhi Ming. Hearing this, Zhang shi instantly felt anxious. She found out that people from Xian Junwang Fu had gone last morning to the Judicial Of ice to ask about the case. Immediately after, Sheng Junwang started to suspect Xian Junwang. Were these two events connected?

She knew that no one in Jing dared to touch this matter. Xian Junwang had sent someone to inquire because of Hua Xi Wan, but now this had caused Xian Junwangto become a suspect. Would Xian Junwang be angry and dislike their fu because of this?

When Hua Zhi Ming came back from the Ministry of Revenues, he saw Zhang shi’s anxious expression and asked about it. After he listened to the cause of the events, he was so furious he smashed a tea set.

“Aren’t you throwing our second niece into the pit?” Hua Zhi Ming’s face was completely red as he said, “How can anyone interfere in this matter? Now even Xian Junwang has been pulled in. Would he blame Second Niece?”

Zhang shi covered her mouth and sobbed. She said, “But what can I do? My Zhang Family has been honest and good for generations, but we never participate in matters of governance. Now that my brother has died, am I supposed to let him die without the culprit being caught?!”

“You only remember your Zhang Family, but do you remember that Xi Wan is my niece?!” In these years, Zhang shi had always favored her paternal family. Hua Zhi Ming had not borne to criticize her due to their marital relationship, but now that he saw how she had pulled his innocent niece into this matter for the Zhang Family, his anger that had been suppressed for many years inally erupted. “Xi Wan has married into the Imperial Family and needs to be careful and plan at each step. You are a good aunt—you want to make trouble for Xi Wan. Do you think that she doesn’t have enough matters already? If you ind Xi Wan again for matters like this, do not blame me for being ruthless!”

Zhang shi was angry, regretful and scared. She wiped her tears and said, “Xian Junwang is kind and virtuous. He would not blame Second Niece because of this matter. Also… also, Second Niece is of outstanding beauty. Xian Junwang would not bear…”

“Shut your mouth now.” Hua Zhi Ming looked with tiredness at his di wife. He wanted to say that while one could see the face, they could not see the heart. He also wanted to say that using one’s beauty never ended well, but in the end, it all turned into a sigh. He rubbed his brow and said, “Think thoroughly. I will not argue with you.” Finishing, he turned and left the room.

“Miss.” The servant girl behind Hua Yi Liu watched as Laoye[1] hurried out of Taitai’s room. She looked worriedly at Hua Yi Liu who had an ashen face, and reached out to support her.

“I’m all right.” Hua Yi Liu pushed aside the servant girl and straightened. “Let’s return.”

The servant girl wanted to say that Taitai would not be in a good mood after just ighting with Laoye, and if Miss were to go comfort Taitai, she would feel better. But when she saw how ugly Miss’ face was, she did not dare to speak up.

At this time, Hua Yi Liu could not care about what her servant girl thought. Her mind was full of what her parents had said when they fought, the respectful attitudes of the servants at Xian Junwang Fu towards Hua Xi Wan, and the jewelry Hua Xi Wan wore on her body that was worth cities.

If Xian Junwang really blamed Hua Xi Wan…

She stumbled but she could not stop thinking. If she really was blamed… that would be great.

In Xian Junwang Fu, Hua Xi Wan idly played with a cat’s eye stone and threw it onto the table. “Yesterday afternoon, Mu Tong had the servants switch out all the gold ish in the pond that died from overeating?”

Zi Shan smiled and nodded. She said, “Yes, this servant heard that Junwang Ye said to not let you know.”

Not let her know, then how did it pass into the ears of her personal servant girl?

Hua Xi Wan laughed lightly and touched the jade bangle on her wrist. She said coolly, “Since that is the case, then pretend to be ignorant. I did not hear anything from you.”

Someone was willing to give her what appeared to be deep emotion, so she would contentedly watch. As to whether it was true emotion or acting, that was not important. What was important was how long this deep emotion would last.

Zi Shan saw Junwang Fei’s expression was calm and that she did not seem to be moved by this event. Her thoughts of discussing this halted. She was not as smart as Junwang Fei, so she would do as Junwang Fei said.

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郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound太太 taitai: married woman, madam郡主 junzhu: title usually given to a daughter of a qinwang ( irst-rank prince)堂兄 tang xiong: father’s brother’s (older) son堂弟 tang di: father’s brother’s (younger) son嫡 di: child born of the of icial wife, not of a concubine⽼ 爷 laoye: (respectful) old master, lord夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady⽒ shi: clan/maiden name弟妹 dimei: younger brother’s wife

Chapter Twenty-Four: Undercurrents

The weather became increasingly hot. Hua Xi Wan started to take off her brocade palace attire and to wear wide-sleeved silk dresses. The fragrance in the rooms was switched to the cool and insect-repelling mint fragrance. But even so, she felt it was uncomfortably hot. Already lazy to start with, she disliked going out even more. If there was a matron who would invite her to some part tours, she would cleanly refuse them because she could not tolerate walking outside in this temperature.

Bai Xia and the other servant girls knew that she had a hard time in summer, so when they served her at this time, they would use all kinds of cooling methods. They were just worried that Junwang Ye would be unhappy that Junwang Fei refused all the invitations. The relationships between womenfolk were also very important among prestigious families.

Hua Xi Wan asked with a smile after learning of their worries, “What do you feel about Princess Rui He’s personality?”

Bai Xia, Lu Zhu and the others stared at each other. A moment later, Lu Zhu said hesitantly, “This servant does not dare to discuss the noble princess.”

“Ha.” Hua Xi Wan lazily leaned back on the chaise. She picked up a lychee that had been skinned and iced. After eating it, she said, “The socalled inner compound relations are either from those lower to those above them, or for those who band together. Our junwang fu does not want to band with others, and just hopes to live clean days. It is not important for me to go to these tours or not.” She was not as virtuous as Sheng Junwang Fei, who didn’t just run a good household of the inner compound of the entire wang fu but also had a high reputation among the womenfolk.

There were those who said she relied on her status, and those who said she was too proud. In any case, these women who did not have good opinions of her still had to carefully give smiles and treat her well. So was it important if those people liked her or not?

If the status of men in the entire dynasty depended on the good relationships between women, what was the use in having these men?

“Princess Rui He is always high up and has a proud attitude. But in all of Jing, who dares to not respect her, who doesn’t latter her?” Hua Xi

Wan’s voice was unconcerned. “Even if you are extremely skilled, in front of noble status, everything is futile.”

Bai Xia and the others were silent. Junwang Fei’s words were too direct and displeasing to hear, but the truth was so. Everyone desired power. In front of power, the so-called friendships were not worth a mention. They remembered back at the marquis fu, there had been womenfolk who said their taitai was too valiant and was rough. But in front of Taitai, how many of them were impolite and didn’t have a smile?

“Right, Junwang Fei, the day after tomorrow is the sixth day of the sixth month. Should we invite Lin Ping Junzhu back to the junwang fu to stay for a day?” Lu Zhu suddenly remembered that the sixth day of the six month was Daughter’s Day. According to tradition, the family would invite the daughters who were married back to their paternal home for a short visit. But Lin Ping Junzhu had not sent anyone to call at Junwang Fu since she had come to Jing, so this matter would be awkward to treat.

“Didn’t Junwang Ye say that everyone should act as normal? We do the same as what we have done before.” Hua Xi Wan did not have a lot of good feelings for her sister-in-law, so she was too lazy to even pretend. Since even Yan Jin Qiu, her younger brother, was distanced from this person, what did it have to do with her, the sister-in-law?

In the Judicial Of ice, Yan Bo Yi looked at the information gathered from all places. The information indiscernibly all pointed at the Crown Prince. He looked at the Chief Justice who was sitting in front of him and was sweating, and put the information back down on the table. “Of icial Zhao, what do you think of this matter?”

“This lowly of icial… this lowly of icial does not dare to decide. Please, Sheng Junwang, guide me.” More sweat rolled down Of icial Zhao’s head, but he did not dare to take out the handkerchief on his body. He pulled his sleeve to wipe.

“Of icial Zhao is joking. You are the Chief Justice of the Judicial Of ice; even you cannot remember how many cases you have solved. How can this case pose a problem for you?” Yan Bo Yi’s index inger tapped a rhythm on the table with his ingers. It caused Of icial Zhao’s heart to jump as well.

“Sheng Junwang, Of icial Zhao, Xian Junwang is asking for a meeting.” A guard hurriedly walked in to report.

Yan Bo Yi’s brow creased slightly. He then stood. “Quick, welcome him in.”

Moments later, Yan Jin Qiu walked in, dressed in blue robes. He also held a paper fan in his hand and appeared extremely ethereal. He saw Yan Bo Yi and bowed with a greeting of equals. “Zi Ling greets Tang Xiong.”

“Tang Di is too polite.” Yan Bo Yi said after he returned the bow, “For what matter has Tang Di come to this place?”

“Zi Ling has come without a greeting and has disturbed the two of you. My junwang fei is extremely concerned about the case of Master Zhang. I do not bear to see her in dif iculty, so I have come to ask.” Yan Jin Qiu’s gaze swept the two as he said slowly, “If there is a problem, please tell me. I am just making an inquiry.”

“Xian Junwang Ye is the example of all husbands.” Of icial Zhao chuckled but did not mention if there was a problem about the matter. “We are investigating the case of Master Zhang. Junwang Ye, do not worry—we will get to the bottom of this case.”

“If that is the case, then I will trouble Tang Xiong and Of icial Zhang.” Yan Jin Qiu slowly folded his fan and used the fan to lightly tap the palm of his other hand. “I will not disturb you further. Farewell.”

Hearing this, Of icial Zhao instantly stood up. “This lowly of icial has many matters and cannot receive Junwang Ye properly. Junwang Ye, please have tolerance.”

“Of icial Zhao is too polite.” Yan Jin Qiu raised his folded hands towards Yan Bo Yi and then walked away.

Of icial Zhao followed behind him and saw him to the gates of the Judicial Of ice before he said, “Junwang Ye, this lowly of icial will not see you off any further.”

“Of icial Zhao, please stop.” Yan Jin Qiu nodded politely. Under Of icial Zhao’s gaze, he stepped onto the carriage.

Watching as the carriage of Xian Junwang travelled into the distance, Of icial Zhao moved his gaze and sighed. This case was connected to too many matters, and there were many prestigious families that were watching. It really increased the pressure on him as Chief Justice. But all the clues pointed towards His Highness the Crown Prince. What were they to do now?

Returning to the of ice, Of icial Zhao saw Sheng Junwang was still sitting properly at his original spot. He sighed inside again. None of these people were easy to talk to. Even that Xian Junwang who seemed to be easy-going was not a simple person.

The news that Xian Junwang repaid evil with good, and went to the Judicial Of icial in person to ask about the case of Master Zhang for his junwang fei, quickly spread through Jing. Some said that Xian Junwang was deeply in love with his junwang feiand went to ask for someone who had offended him many times. Some womenfolk also felt that Xian Junwang Fei was using her beauty to get Xian Junwang who had been clean and noble to meddle in such a terrible manner, and that there would be a day when she fell out of favor.

No matter what the outside said, the people of the Zhang Family were very grateful to Xian Junwang Fu. In this world, there were not many who sent coal in the snow. Their only son of the di branch dying meant that their root had been broken off. They would be replaced by the people of the cadet branch sooner or later. It was extremely valuable for someone to lend a helping hand at this time.

Zhang Laoye who had grown old in a night due to losing his only son said to his furen with a sigh, “Only a person as outstanding as Xian Junwang would help us based on my Zhang Family’s reputation as a scholarly family.”

“The outside is saying that Xian Junwang is helping us because of Xian Junwang Fei…” Zhang Furen recalled how her eldest daughter had personally gone to Xian Junwang Fu to get Junwang Fei to help. “Is that not the case?”

“I do not know much about the conduct of Xian Junwang, but I have heard many things. He is not someone to change his ideas because of beauty. He is a very clean and honest person who has skill in poetry and drawing. He is willing to help my Zhang Family most likely because of our Zhang Family’s reputation these past years.” Zhang Laoye’s eyes were illed with exhaustion. “I will remember his goodwill.”

Zhang Furen wanted to say that even if Xian Junwang would not be affected by usual beauty, Xian Junwang Fei’s beauty was not something that could be described by outstanding. But seeing her husband’s tired expression, she did not say what she thought. Maybe there really were men who were not affected by beauty?

Compared to the people who believed the rumors, Yi’an Maquis Fu was more concerned about another matter—having Hua Xi Wan come back on the sixth day of the month to stay for a day.

As the eldest brother of Hua Xi Wan, Hua Chang Bao was naturally the irst choice to go receive Hua Xi Wan. But the sixth day of the six month was a folk day, and they did not know if Xian Junwang would feel that the paternal family was being bothersome.

“Is there any meaning in thinking so much?” Lu Furen said directly. “Having our girls back in the paternal home is our goodwill. Can Xian Junwang Fu be so noble that they will not allow our girl to come back to her paternal home?”

Hua Ding Chen nodded in agreement. “Mother is right. With Xian Junwang’s breadth of mind, he would not overthink this.”

Hua He Zheng sighed helplessly. Now that his daughter had married into that kind of family, even if Yi’an Marquis Fu could support her, what was the use? If this minor matter affected the relationship between them, that would not be what they intended.

Just as they were hesitating, they heard a servant report that Xian Junwang had come.

“Why has Xian Junwang come at this time?” Lu shi raised an eyebrow. She recalled the case of Master Zhang which had been very popular in the last few days. “Is it for the matter of Second Dimei’s paternal family?”

Hua He Zheng thought carefully but could not conclude anything. He shook his head and said, “Do not speculate. Zhang Bao, Ding Chen, come with me to meet the guest.”

Hua Zhang Bao and Hua Ding Chen exchanged a look and walked outside with their father.

Lu shi looked at the father and sons trio walk out the door of the main yard. She seemed to complain to the servant girl next to her. “Those three are staying together.”

“Eldest Master and Second Master are capable people. It is good for the Marquis to take them out to see.” The servant girl went up to massage Lu shi’s shoulder and said half in praise and half in sincerity, “This fall, Second Master is going to attend the Fall Examination. It is good for him to see more of the prestigious families of Jing.”

Lu shi smiled and did not lecture the servant girl for being too chatty. Her eyebrows were full of pride in her three children.

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Chapter 25

Chapter Twenty-Five: Closeness

When Hua He Sheng came with his sons to the guest hall, Xian Junwang was already sitting in the guest seat and savoring a hot cup of tea . Seeing them come in, he politely put down the teacup and even stood up .

“Xian Junwang . ” Hua He Sheng smiled and raised his folded hands in greeting . “Please take the top seat . ”

“Mount Tai is too polite . ” Yan Jin Qiu gave the bow of a junior to Hua He Sheng and then one of equals to Hua He Sheng’s two sons . “Today, I have come for no other matter—I just heard that Second Brother-InLaw is preparing to attend the Fall Examination, so I had someone ind the past exams of the Fall Examination . Even though there is no great use, it can let Second Brother practice and familiarize himself with the question type of the Fall Examination . ”

When he inished saying this, the two attendants standing silently behind him came forward and presented a wooden box each . After the servants of the marquis fu took them, they silently retreated to the side .

“Virtuous Son-in-law, thanks . ” Hua He Sheng had a smile on his face as he ushered for Yan Jin Qiu to sit down again on the guest seat . He had the servant switch another cup of tea for Yan Jin Qiu . “This untalented son of mine is just going to see his luck at the Fall Examination this year . Whether or not he will rank depends on the heavens, but it has troubled Virtuous Son-in-Law for your efforts . ”

妹夫 meifu: younger sister’s husband Hua Ding Chen did not show any dissatisfaction at being disdained so by Hua He Sheng and had a humble expression . He chuckled and raised his hands at Yan Jin Qiu . “Many thanks, Meifu,[1] for planning so well for me . I had been thinking a few days ago how wonderful it would be to have past questions to solve . Who knew that I would encounter Meifu sending coal in the snow . I really am grateful . ” Finishing, he was going to bow to Yan Jin Qiu, but Yan Jin Qiu held him up .

“Second Brother-in-Law does not have to be so polite . You and I are brothers—we do not need to speak of gratefulness . ” Yan Jin Qiu patted Hua Ding Chen’s shoulder and said to Hua He Sheng, “I have come this time primarily for Xi Wan . Tomorrow is Daughter’s Day, the sixth day of the sixth month . Xi Wan is having a hard time in the summer; Mount Tai, please prepare more ice . ”

Hua He Sheng was a smart person and instantly heard that Yan Jin Qiu was implying that they could have Hua Xi Wan back to the marquis fu tomorrow to pass Daughter’s Day . The other would also respect the marquis fu’s course of action .

“My daughter is not good in personality . If she is not suf icient in some area, Virtuous Son-in-Law, please have tolerance . ” Hua He Sheng’s voice instantly became closer . “It is our fault for spoiling her these years . ”

“Xi Wan is very good . After she took over Junwang Fu, she has organized the fu well,” Yan Jin Qiu said in a sincere tone . “It is my good fortune to have married her . ”

After he said this, even Hua Chang Bao and Hua Ding Chen looked at him with more warmth in their eyes .

When Yan Jin Qiu came out of the gates of the marquis fu, it was Hua Chang Bao and Hua Ding Chen who sent him out the door . They were much closer in their conversation and actions .

After the two brothers sent off Xian Junwang and returned to the guest hall, Hua He Sheng was looking at the examination questions that Xian Junwang had delivered . He asked with a deep expression, “What do you two feel about Xian Junwang as a person?”

Hua Chang Bao lowered his eyes and did not speak . Hua Ding Chen said after some thought, “Xian Junwang is just as the rumors say, a clean and handsome person . ”

“Other than this?” Hua He Sheng looked at the exam questions in his hand . These questions had been carefully sorted into types, and there

were even notes on the patterns of recent questions .

He had been fortunate to see Xian Junwang’s writing before . It was the exact same as the writing on these papers .

“He is humble in action and can be called a gentleman . ” Hua Ding Chen thought carefully and added, “He is also a very smart person . ”

“He really is a smart person . ” Hua He Sheng closed the wooden box in his hand and pushed the box in Hua Ding Chen’s direction . “This is very useful . You can spend some more time on this and study them . ”

Hua Ding Chen looked at his father and elder brother before taking the two heavy boxes and leaving the yard with a smile .

“It is good that Ding Chen has this kind of personality . ” Hua He Sheng stood next to the window and watched as his youngest son left the yard . “His heart and mind are clear—this is good for scholarly pursuits . ”

Hearing this, Hua Chang Bao said, “Father, Xian Junwang has a very deep mind . I am worried that in the wang fu, Xi Wan will in the future…”

“What is there to be worried about?” Hua He Sheng smiled faintly as he held a teacup . “Your sister’s mind and scheming are above both of you

brothers . If she was a male, the heir to the marquis fu would not be you .”

Hua Chang Bao said with a stiff face, “Father, you should add a condition . Like if Xi Wan was not so lazy . ”

Hua He Sheng was silent for a long while before he asked in response, “Why can you not learn from your brother and be more innocent at this time?”

“The next time when it is like this, I will remember to learn from my younger brother,” Hua Chang Bao answered without any sincerity .

Hua He Sheng took a tasteless sip of tea . Why did he have three children but all of them were so different in personality? As the father, he was under great pressure .

##

“Junwang Fei, Junwang Ye has come back . ” Lu Zhu hurried into the main room . Seeing Hua Xi Wan on the chaise listening to the female teacher speak, she stopped her steps . “Junwang Fei?”

“En?” Hua Xi Wan lazily raised her head to look at her . “If Junwang Ye wants to see me upon his return, he will naturally come . Why are you

in such a hurry?”

Lu Zhu stood awkwardly . Seeing Bai Xia and Zi Shan look at her, she said, “This servant is just worried that when Junwang Ye comes back, he will become displeased when he sees your attire is not neat . ”

Hua Xi Wan waved her hand and indicated for her to retreat . “All right, I know . ”

Lu Zhu saw Junwang Fei lean against the chaise barefoot, completely unaffected by what she had said, and retreated to the side resentfully .

Bai Xia’s brow creased slightly, and she couldn’t help but glance at Lu Zhu . Because Miss was present, she did not open up and scold .

“In this instant, a large great hound shot out of the forest and frightened Miss Liu and her servant girl…” The female storyteller had reached the climax when she suddenly heard footsteps outside the yard . She guessed that it was Xian Junwang arriving and stopped to retreat to the side .

Just as she stood in the corner, she saw a man in brocade walk in . His hair was in a jade coronet, a lucky cloud jade pendant hung at his waist, his feet were in palace boots, and he seemed extremely outstanding and elegant . She sighed inside . No wonder so many of the personages sighed and praised Xian Junwang . Not saying anything of his talents and status, just this face was enough to enchant many females .

“Just now, I went to Mount Tai’s fu . Tomorrow, Elder Brother-in-Law will come and take you to the marquis fu to stay for the day . If you have something you need to take, remember to have the servants pack it . ” Yan Jin Qiu spoke as he went to clasp Hua Xi Wan’s hand . He felt that the center of her hand was sweaty and asked with a creased brow, “Is there not enough ice out—why are you sweating so much?”

Hua Xi Wan purposefully wiped the sweat on her hand at his chest and said, “The majority of ice in the fu is in my room . I just had a bowl of cooling soup, so I have sweated a bit . I had Lu Zhu keep a bowl for you . Do you want a taste?”

Nodding, Yan Jin Qiu did not object to Hua Xi Wan wiping her sweat on him . He took the round fan on the chaise to fan her . He looked around the room and found the female storyteller in the corner . “What story are you listening to?”

“A hero rescuing a beauty . ” Hua Xi Wan blinked her eyes . “The beauty was being chased by an evil hound, and at the end, she was rescued by a poor student . The beauty was grateful to the student and married him . ”

Yan Jin Qiu paused in his fanning and then said in a calm tone, “How many noble ladies and poor scholars have good endings when they get together? This is just a story . ”

Hua Xi Wan smiled faintly and said, “You are right . Next time, I will have the storyteller tell the story of a beauty rescuing a hero . ”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled and reached out to pinch her ear when he was interrupted by Lu Zhu who came in with the cooling soup .

“Junwang Ye, please use the cooling soup . ” A section of pale skin was exposed when Lu Zhu held the bowl up . The wire silver bangle on her wrist was especially good-looking .

本王 ben wang: literally “this wang/prince”; illeism for princes Yan Jin Qiu silently moved his gaze aside . He raised his head and saw a brightly smiling Hua Xi Wan . He said coolly, “Ben wang[2] is not thirsty . Put it down . ”

Hearing this, Lu Zhu curtsied, put the bowl down on the table, and retreated to one side .

Hua Xi Wan swept the corner of Lu Zhu’s embroidered dress and stood to pick up the bowl of soup on the table . She stirred the soup with a spoon and then said coolly, “This soup has probably been sitting for too long . The lavor is most likely not as good as when it is fresh . ” Her gaze swept across her other three personal servant girls . “Hong Ying, I remember that the mung bean soup you make is good . Go to the kitchen and make a new bowl . ” Finishing, she put the bowl lightly back

on the table and went back to lying on the chaise . She said, half in complaint and half joking, “My waist hurts from lying down for so long . ”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu smiled helplessly . He had the female storyteller leave before he reached out and lightly massaged her waist . “On the morning of the day after tomorrow, I will go to the marquis fu to bring you back . ”

The pressure at her waist was just perfect . Hua Xi Wan closed her eyes in comfort and made a sound of acknowledgment .

Yan Jin Qiu smiled . But when his gaze swept across the cooling soup on the table where the ice had already melted, there was no mirth in his eyes .

##

On the morning of the sixth day of the sixth month, Hua Chang Bao came early to Xian Junwang Fu . However, only Yan Jin Qiu received him . After the two exchanged courtesies, he hesitatingly asked, “Junwang Ye, my sister…” He had a guess, but he didn’t dare to believe that after she had married into the junwang fu, her resting times were the same as when she had not married .

“Xi Wan has not gotten up yet . Please, Brother-in-Law, wait for a few minutes . ” Yan Jin Qiu smiled apologetically and said, “Has Brother-in-

Law eaten yet? If you have not, please use the morning meal before taking Hua Xi Wan back to the marquis fu . ”

Hua Chang Bao sighed inwardly . He felt that he should be the one apologizing now, and not Yan Jin Qiu . Thinking about this, his expression warmed up . “Many thanks, Junwang Ye . I have already used it . ”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu nodded . He could only have the servant continue to pour tea for Hua Chang Bao . Inside, he thought, how did Yi’an Marquis Fu raise a cautious son but a lazy daughter?

The difference was too drastic .

After the two sat for about an hour, they inally heard the servant report that Junwang Fei had gotten up .

“It has been hot recently . Xi Wan cannot sleep well during the night, so she is late in getting up in the morning . Please, Brother-in-Law, have tolerance . ” Yan Jin Qiu sighed inside . Today, Xi Wan had gotten up an hour earlier than usual . As expected, Xi Wan and Yi’an Marquis Fu had deep love .

Hua Chang Bao wanted to say to Yan Jin Qiu, do not explain, I understand it all . But looking at Xian Junwang explaining in all seriousness as though this really was the case, he was unable to speak .

When Hua He Sheng came with his sons to the guest hall, Xian Junwang was already sitting in the guest seat and savoring a hot cup of tea . Seeing them come in, he politely put down the teacup and even stood up

“Xian Junwang . ” Hua He Sheng smiled and raised his folded hands in greeting . “Please take the top seat . ”.

“Mount Tai is too polite . ” Yan Jin Qiu gave the bow of a junior to Hua He Sheng and then one of equals to Hua He Sheng’s two sons . “Today, I have come for no other matter—I just heard that Second Brother-InLaw is preparing to attend the Fall Examination, so I had someone ind the past exams of the Fall Examination . Even though there is no great use, it can let Second Brother practice and familiarize himself with the question type of the Fall Examination . ”.

When he inished saying this, the two attendants standing silently behind him came forward and presented a wooden box each . After the servants of the marquis fu took them, they silently retreated to the side

“Virtuous Son-in-law, thanks . ” Hua He Sheng had a smile on his face as he ushered for Yan Jin Qiu to sit down again on the guest seat . He had the servant switch another cup of tea for Yan Jin Qiu . “This untalented son of mine is just going to see his luck at the Fall Examination this year . Whether or not he will rank depends on the heavens, but it has troubled Virtuous Son-in-Law for your efforts . ”.

妹夫 meifu: younger sister’s husband. Hua Ding Chen did not show any dissatisfaction at being disdained so by Hua He Sheng and had a humble expression . He chuckled and raised his hands at Yan Jin Qiu . “Many thanks, Meifu,[1] for planning so well for me . I had been thinking a few days ago how wonderful it would be to have past questions to solve . Who knew that I would encounter Meifu sending coal in the snow . I really am grateful . ” Finishing, he was going to bow to Yan Jin Qiu, but Yan Jin Qiu held him up

“Second Brother-in-Law does not have to be so polite . You and I are brothers—we do not need to speak of gratefulness . ” Yan Jin Qiu patted Hua Ding Chen’s shoulder and said to Hua He Sheng, “I have come this time primarily for Xi Wan . Tomorrow is Daughter’s Day, the sixth day of the sixth month . Xi Wan is having a hard time in the summer; Mount Tai, please prepare more ice . ”.

Hua He Sheng was a smart person and instantly heard that Yan Jin Qiu was implying that they could have Hua Xi Wan back to the marquis fu tomorrow to pass Daughter’s Day . The other would also respect the marquis fu’s course of action

“My daughter is not good in personality . If she is not suf icient in some area, Virtuous Son-in-Law, please have tolerance . ” Hua He Sheng’s voice instantly became closer . “It is our fault for spoiling her these years . ”.

“Xi Wan is very good . After she took over Junwang Fu, she has organized the fu well,” Yan Jin Qiu said in a sincere tone . “It is my good fortune to have married her . ”.

After he said this, even Hua Chang Bao and Hua Ding Chen looked at him with more warmth in their eyes

When Yan Jin Qiu came out of the gates of the marquis fu, it was Hua Chang Bao and Hua Ding Chen who sent him out the door . They were much closer in their conversation and actions

After the two brothers sent off Xian Junwang and returned to the guest hall, Hua He Sheng was looking at the examination questions that Xian Junwang had delivered . He asked with a deep expression, “What do you two feel about Xian Junwang as a person?”.

Hua Chang Bao lowered his eyes and did not speak . Hua Ding Chen said after some thought, “Xian Junwang is just as the rumors say, a clean and handsome person . ”.

“Other than this?” Hua He Sheng looked at the exam questions in his hand . These questions had been carefully sorted into types, and there were even notes on the patterns of recent questions

He had been fortunate to see Xian Junwang’s writing before . It was the exact same as the writing on these papers

“He is humble in action and can be called a gentleman . ” Hua Ding Chen thought carefully and added, “He is also a very smart person . ”.

“He really is a smart person . ” Hua He Sheng closed the wooden box in his hand and pushed the box in Hua Ding Chen’s direction . “This is very useful . You can spend some more time on this and study them . ”.

Hua Ding Chen looked at his father and elder brother before taking the two heavy boxes and leaving the yard with a smile

“It is good that Ding Chen has this kind of personality . ” Hua He Sheng stood next to the window and watched as his youngest son left the yard . “His heart and mind are clear—this is good for scholarly pursuits . ”.

Hearing this, Hua Chang Bao said, “Father, Xian Junwang has a very deep mind . I am worried that in the wang fu, Xi Wan will in the future…”.

“What is there to be worried about?” Hua He Sheng smiled faintly as he held a teacup . “Your sister’s mind and scheming are above both of you brothers . If she was a male, the heir to the marquis fu would not be you . ”.

Hua Chang Bao said with a stiff face, “Father, you should add a condition . Like if Xi Wan was not so lazy . ”.

Hua He Sheng was silent for a long while before he asked in response, “Why can you not learn from your brother and be more innocent at this time?”.

“The next time when it is like this, I will remember to learn from my younger brother,” Hua Chang Bao answered without any sincerity

Hua He Sheng took a tasteless sip of tea . Why did he have three children but all of them were so different in personality? As the father, he was under great pressure

##.

“Junwang Fei, Junwang Ye has come back . ” Lu Zhu hurried into the main room . Seeing Hua Xi Wan on the chaise listening to the female teacher speak, she stopped her steps . “Junwang Fei?”.

“En?” Hua Xi Wan lazily raised her head to look at her . “If Junwang Ye wants to see me upon his return, he will naturally come . Why are you in such a hurry?”.

Lu Zhu stood awkwardly . Seeing Bai Xia and Zi Shan look at her, she said, “This servant is just worried that when Junwang Ye comes back, he will become displeased when he sees your attire is not neat . ”.

Hua Xi Wan waved her hand and indicated for her to retreat . “All right, I know . ”.

Lu Zhu saw Junwang Fei lean against the chaise barefoot, completely unaffected by what she had said, and retreated to the side resentfully

Bai Xia’s brow creased slightly, and she couldn’t help but glance at Lu Zhu . Because Miss was present, she did not open up and scold

“In this instant, a large great hound shot out of the forest and frightened Miss Liu and her servant girl…” The female storyteller had reached the climax when she suddenly heard footsteps outside the yard . She guessed that it was Xian Junwang arriving and stopped to retreat to the side

Just as she stood in the corner, she saw a man in brocade walk in . His hair was in a jade coronet, a lucky cloud jade pendant hung at his waist, his feet were in palace boots, and he seemed extremely outstanding and elegant . She sighed inside . No wonder so many of the personages sighed and praised Xian Junwang . Not saying anything of his talents and status, just this face was enough to enchant many females

“Just now, I went to Mount Tai’s fu . Tomorrow, Elder Brother-in-Law will come and take you to the marquis fu to stay for the day . If you have something you need to take, remember to have the servants pack it . ” Yan Jin Qiu spoke as he went to clasp Hua Xi Wan’s hand . He felt that

the center of her hand was sweaty and asked with a creased brow, “Is there not enough ice out—why are you sweating so much?”.

Hua Xi Wan purposefully wiped the sweat on her hand at his chest and said, “The majority of ice in the fu is in my room . I just had a bowl of cooling soup, so I have sweated a bit . I had Lu Zhu keep a bowl for you . Do you want a taste?”.

Nodding, Yan Jin Qiu did not object to Hua Xi Wan wiping her sweat on him . He took the round fan on the chaise to fan her . He looked around the room and found the female storyteller in the corner . “What story are you listening to?”.

“A hero rescuing a beauty . ” Hua Xi Wan blinked her eyes . “The beauty was being chased by an evil hound, and at the end, she was rescued by a poor student . The beauty was grateful to the student and married him . ”.

Yan Jin Qiu paused in his fanning and then said in a calm tone, “How many noble ladies and poor scholars have good endings when they get together? This is just a story . ”.

Hua Xi Wan smiled faintly and said, “You are right . Next time, I will have the storyteller tell the story of a beauty rescuing a hero . ”.

Yan Jin Qiu smiled and reached out to pinch her ear when he was interrupted by Lu Zhu who came in with the cooling soup

“Junwang Ye, please use the cooling soup . ” A section of pale skin was exposed when Lu Zhu held the bowl up . The wire silver bangle on her wrist was especially good-looking

本王 ben wang: literally “this wang/prince”; illeism for princes. Yan Jin Qiu silently moved his gaze aside . He raised his head and saw a brightly smiling Hua Xi Wan . He said coolly, “Ben wang[2] is not thirsty . Put it down . ”.

Hearing this, Lu Zhu curtsied, put the bowl down on the table, and retreated to one side

Hua Xi Wan swept the corner of Lu Zhu’s embroidered dress and stood to pick up the bowl of soup on the table . She stirred the soup with a spoon and then said coolly, “This soup has probably been sitting for too long . The lavor is most likely not as good as when it is fresh . ” Her gaze swept across her other three personal servant girls . “Hong Ying, I remember that the mung bean soup you make is good . Go to the kitchen and make a new bowl . ” Finishing, she put the bowl lightly back on the table and went back to lying on the chaise . She said, half in complaint and half joking, “My waist hurts from lying down for so long . ”.

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu smiled helplessly . He had the female storyteller leave before he reached out and lightly massaged her waist .

“On the morning of the day after tomorrow, I will go to the marquis fu to bring you back . ”.

The pressure at her waist was just perfect . Hua Xi Wan closed her eyes in comfort and made a sound of acknowledgment

Yan Jin Qiu smiled . But when his gaze swept across the cooling soup on the table where the ice had already melted, there was no mirth in his eyes

##.

On the morning of the sixth day of the sixth month, Hua Chang Bao came early to Xian Junwang Fu . However, only Yan Jin Qiu received him . After the two exchanged courtesies, he hesitatingly asked, “Junwang Ye, my sister…” He had a guess, but he didn’t dare to believe that after she had married into the junwang fu, her resting times were the same as when she had not married

“Xi Wan has not gotten up yet . Please, Brother-in-Law, wait for a few minutes . ” Yan Jin Qiu smiled apologetically and said, “Has Brother-inLaw eaten yet? If you have not, please use the morning meal before taking Hua Xi Wan back to the marquis fu . ”.

Hua Chang Bao sighed inwardly . He felt that he should be the one apologizing now, and not Yan Jin Qiu . Thinking about this, his

expression warmed up . “Many thanks, Junwang Ye . I have already used it . ”.

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu nodded . He could only have the servant continue to pour tea for Hua Chang Bao . Inside, he thought, how did Yi’an Marquis Fu raise a cautious son but a lazy daughter?.

The difference was too drastic

After the two sat for about an hour, they inally heard the servant report that Junwang Fei had gotten up

“It has been hot recently . Xi Wan cannot sleep well during the night, so she is late in getting up in the morning . Please, Brother-in-Law, have tolerance . ” Yan Jin Qiu sighed inside . Today, Xi Wan had gotten up an hour earlier than usual . As expected, Xi Wan and Yi’an Marquis Fu had deep love

Hua Chang Bao wanted to say to Yan Jin Qiu, do not explain, I understand it all . But looking at Xian Junwang explaining in all seriousness as though this really was the case, he was unable to speak

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang郡主 junzhu: title usually given to a daughter of a qinwang ( irst-rank prince)⼤嫂 dasao: older brother’s wife, usually of the eldest brother⽒ shi: clan/maiden name⼉ ‘er: form of endearment[i]嫂⼦ saozi: older brother’s wife通房 tongfang: the lowest rank of concubine 夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady Chapter Twenty-Six: Sisters

When Hua Xi Wan appeared in front of her eldest brother, it was more than an hour later. Hua Chang Bao looked at his grandly dressed younger sister, then at Xian Junwang who was rearranging the hairpins in her hair, and sighed.

When he left with Hua Xi Wan, he turned back and raised his folded hands to Xian Junwang who had walked with them out of the wang fu gates. “Xian Junwang, please stay. I will go irst.”

“Eldest Brother-in-Law, have a slow trip.” Yan Jin Qiu helped Hua Xi Wan onto the carriage before he turned and said to Hua Chang Bao, “Forgive me for not seeing you off further.”

“Please stay, please stay.” Hua Chang Bao got on the horse. After they travelled a distance, he looked back. Xian Junwang was still standing in

his original spot, but the distance was far, so he could not see what the expression on Xian Junwang‘s face was.

Moving his gaze back, Hua Chang Bao looked at the carriage with the insignia of Yi’an Marquis Fu. His brow furrowed. What did Xian Junwangreally think?

Mu Tong watched as the carriage from Yi’an Marquis Fu travelled until it could not be seen before he buried his head down.

“Return.” Yan Jin Qiu turned and walked through the gates of the junwang fu. After they walked to the second door, he said in a cold voice, “What rumors are there about the case of Master Zhang?”

“Many people outside are saying this matter is connected to the Crown Prince. But because the Emperor wants to save the Crown Prince, he is pushing the crime onto the heads of the bandits,” Mu Tong said obediently. “Supposedly, even the people from the Zhang Family are starting to suspect the Crown Prince.”

Yan Jin Qiu snorted a laugh and walked towards the study with his hands behind his back. “It seems that Yan Bo Yi is making waves from the shadows. Otherwise, who leaked out all the information?”

Mu Tong was silent and did not dare to speak.

After Yan Jin Qiu stayed half a day in the study, he suddenly remembered a new chef had come into the fu yesterday, so he said, “Get the new chef to make some of his specialty dishes and send them to Junwang Fei.”

Mu Tong stilled and then said, “Junwang Ye, Junwang Fei went back to Yi’an Marquis Fu today.”

Yan Jin Qiu paused in lipping through the book in his hand. He then waved his hand and did not speak further.

In one of the private rooms of a famous rouge shop in Jing, Lin Ping Junzhu stood by the window. When she saw the carriage from Yi’an Marquis Fu pass by, she couldn’t help but frown. Why was the carriage from Yi’an Marquis Fu going from the direction of Xian Junwang Fu toward Yi’an Marquis Fu?

When the carriage passed into the distance, she heard the sound of female conversation from the next room.

“Yi’an Marquis Fu really cares for their daughter. So early on this sixth day of the sixth month, and they have gone to Xian Junwang Fu. Xian Junwang Fei really is fortunate—a good paternal family, the favor of her husband. I really admire her.”

“This is fate; you won’t obtain it even if you admire it.”

Sixth day of the sixth month? Lin Ping Junzhu thought for a moment before recalling that this was Daughter’s Day among the common people. It was when the parents and brothers had the females who had married out come back to stay at home. Hearing the two women in the next room speak about how they admired Hua Xi Wan, she impatiently left the private room with her servant girls.

She, Yan Jin Ling, had decided when she had married that she would not rely on her paternal family. Then today, she would not care about something like Daughter’s Day. It was just something the lowly common people would do, but Yi’an Marquis Fu actually thought it was so important—this was so laughable.

Just as the carriage reached the marquis fu gates and stilled, Hua Xi Wan heard the voice of her second brother. When she looked outside of the carriage, she saw her brother looking over eagerly as she expected. She couldn’t help but smile. “Second Brother.”

“You inally came.” Hua Ding Chen went forward to the carriage to help Hua Xi Wan off. He examined Hua Xi Wan and saw from her complexion that she was living well at Junwang Fu before he said in satisfaction, “It seems that Junwang Ye has been good to you. I can rest my worries.”

Hua Chang Bao got off the horse and walked next to them, saying, “Let’s go into the fu before talking. What does it look like with all of us standing at the gates?”

Sister and brother exchanged a look and docilely followed behind Hua Chang Bao through the gates of the marquis fu. While the three of them had vastly different personalities, the authority of Hua Chang Bao as the oldest brother was guaranteed.

Along the road, Hua Xi Wan saw that not much in the marquis fu had changed from when she had married. When Hua Xi Wan entered the main yard, she saw her mother and her dasao, Sun shi, who were waiting for her. She walked forward quickly, curtsied, and said, “Daughter greets Mother. Mother, have you been well recently?”

“Good, good, good,” Lu shi repeated. She carefully examined Hua Xi Wan. “Are you used to the junwang fu? Are there any people who are not obedient in the fu?” The last time when her daughter returned, there had been too many people and she did not ask about too many things. Since there were only members of their family in the room now, she did not need to be wary of anything.

“I get the inal say in everything in the junwang fu—who dares to disobey?” Hua Xi Wan sat down next to Lu shi and said to Sun shi beside her, “It has been a time since I saw Dasao. You are looking even better.”

Sun shi smiled. “You, little girl, still have such a sweet mouth.”

Hua Xi Wan said with a serious expression, “It is not that I have a sweet mouth. I am an honest person and never lie.”

Sun shi shook her head helplessly. When she turned her head, she saw that while her husband’s expression was cool, there was still joy in his eyes. She knew that Hua Chang Bao was someone who appeared cool but had a warm heart. Sun shi was used to this and said, “That is because Mother is very good to me. She has given me all the good things to eat and drink, to make my complexion like this.”

Lu shi smiled and said, “I just have you two daughters. If I do not give the good things to you, who do I give them to?” She pointed at Hua Chang Bao and Hua Ding Chen. “Should I give them to these two brats? Even if you two bear to, I will think that they will waste it.” This was her saying that she thought of Sun shi as her own daughter and not an outsider.

Sun shi covered her mouth and laughed lightly. She did not feel that her mother-in-law was being polite. In all of Jing, how many mothers-in-law were as considerate and generous as hers?

Hua Ding Chen did not agree, but in front of the women, there was no place for him to speak. In the end, he was teased by all the women.

saozi: older brother’s wife

After a while of talking, Hua Xi Wan said, “I received a few bolts of snow brocade a few days ago and had Zi Shan make a few inner garments for Fu‘er. Saozi,[i] try and see if they it later. If they do not it, have the servants modify them.”

The snow brocade was cool yet not cold. It was not something one could buy with money. Sun shi instantly said, “Fu‘er is just a child eleven months old—how can he use such good cloth?”

“It is because our Fu‘er is an infant that more care needs to be taken with his inner garments,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “When he is older, even if you make him wear rough cloth, I will not care.”

Sun shi‘s heart warmed. She knew that Hua Xi Wan did not care about courtesies, and accepted the goodwill with a smile.

When they had the noon meal, Hua Xi Wan found that most of the dishes were ones she liked. Lu shi had even personally cooked some of them. She felt sore inside, but when she raised her head, she was full of smiles.

After they inished, Hua Xi Wan ate half a bowl more than usual. Lu shi worried about discomfort and had the servants make a digestive tea for Hua Xi Wan to drink. When there was only she, Sun shi, and Hua Xi Wan left in the room, she inally spoke about the matters of the inner compound. “The date of Eldest Miss’ marriage to the son of Minister Zhou has been set down—the second day of the eighth month.”

Hua Xi Wan recalled the rumors about the son of Minister Zhou. “I heard that this Master Zhou has a tongfang who is pregnant right now. Is it true or false?”

“So what if it is true or not?” Lu shi took a sip of tea and spoke coolly. “At the start, it was their Zhou Family that begged for this marriage. Then within ten years of Eldest Miss and Master Zhou’s marriage, their Zhou Family will not have children that other women gave birth to.”

Hua Xi Wan’s brow creased. But then, what was the meaning in Hua Yi Liu marrying a man like this? “Since the Zhou Family dare to do such a thing, why are Second Uncle and Second Aunt not breaking off the engagement?” This place was not one where women who had broken off their engagement could not marry. The broken engagement would be of some harm to a woman’s reputation, but that would be better than marrying an unreliable man.

“The Zhou Family Furen has a good relationship with your second aunt. Who knows what your second aunt is planning?” Lu shi shook her head. “If Master Zhou does not make the same mistake in the future, there will be no problems. If he does the same after the marriage, then Eldest Miss is pitiable.”

Of the three misses of the Hua family, Hua Yi Liu was the eldest, Hua Xi Wan was the youngest. Rationally, Hua Xi Wan should be close to Hua Yi Liu because Second Uncle and her father were full-blooded brothers, but Hua Xi Wan admired Second Sister Hua Chu Yu more. Her opinion of Hua Yi Liu, her eldest female cousin, was average.

But no matter what, she could not watch as Hua Yi Liu married a bad man. “Second Aunt only has this one daughter. She bears to let her own daughter be humiliated?”

Lu shi sighed and did not speak.

Just as they were talking, servants came to report that Eldest Miss and Second Miss had come.

“Quick, invite the misses in.” Lu shi stood and said, “I will go to the inner compound. You sisters have a good talk.”

Seeing this, Sun shi stood and said, “Fu‘er should be eating soon. I have to back to attend to this.” Even though she was close to Hua Xi Wan, her sister-in-law, Sun shi did not have many interactions with the other two misses of the Hua Family. Therefore, she did not want to stay here and in luence the talk of the three misses.

Hua Xi Wan could only say, “All right, then we will have a good talk later tonight.”

Hua Chu Yu and Hua Yi Liu were surrounded by several servant girls who came to welcome them when they entered the main yard and ushered them into the main room. The servant girls helped them sit down, put out tea and refreshments. It was very busy.

Compared to Hua Chu Yu who had a hale complexion, Hua Yi Liu’s face was slightly pale. She sat silently on the chair as the servant girls hurried about. When she raised her head and saw Hua Xi Wan and Hua Chu Yu conversing happily, she dazed. She said dejectedly, “The weather is becoming even more hot. After the summer, it will be fall.” She once

had a meeting with that Master Zhou. Even though he was handsome, he could not compare to Xian Junwang. His status and talents couldn’t even be said to be anything next to Xian Junwang‘s. Was she to marry that kind of man in the future?

Hearing this, Hua Chu Yu looked at her and did not make a sound.

Hua Xi Wan’s eyebrow rose slightly. “It will not be so hot when it is fall.”

Hua Yi Liu felt slightly bitter. She was afraid of fall’s arrival because she did not want to marry a man like that. But Hua Xi Wan yearned for fall because she was discomforted by the heat. The happiness of her life in Hua Xi Wan’s eyes probably could not compare to a few cool days.

What sister, this was all that it was.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

堂姐 tang jie: father’s brother’s (older) daughter府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound郡王 junwang: secondrank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”通房 tongfang: the lowest rank of concubine郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch Chapter Twenty-Seven: The Difference

As though she had detected that something was wrong with Hua Yi Liu’s mood, Hua Chu Yu said, “Tang Jie, your cloud hairpins are very unique—which craftsman made them?”

“Really, I feel the color is a bit plain.” Hua Yi Liu forced a smile and touched the silver hairpins in her hair. “Are they really good-looking?”

“En, they are very suited to your skin color.” Hua Chu Yu nodded and then looked at Hua Xi Wan. “Xi Wan, don’t you think so?” She did not know that Hua Xi Wan already knew about the matter of Master Zhou, so she gave a special look.

“Second TangJie is right,” Hua Xi Wan said with admiration in her voice. “Even I want to copy you and order a set, but I’m just worried I will not look as good as you with them.”

“Xi Wan, you are naturally beautiful; you do not need these outside objects to increase your light.” Hua Yi Liu’s expression became much better and her voice became more energetic. “Before I came to the

marquis fu today, Mother told me to thank you. Because of my maternal uncle’s case, it caused Xian Junwang to be suspected. Mother feels great guilt and asks Xi Wan for forgiveness.”

“No need.” Hua Xi Wan smiled as she had the servants replace two plates of pastries for her cousins. “We are one family—there is no need to say courtesies.”

When Hua Chu Yu heard Hua Yi Liu’s words, she inally learned that Second Aunt had pulled Xian Junwang Fu into the matter for the Zhang Family. No wonder Mother had been full of schadenfreude the past days, saying that Second Uncle and Second Aunt were ighting. It was probably because of this. As a junior, she should not judge what Second Aunt did, but when she thought about how Hua Xi Wan had been pulled in, she couldn’t help but say, “It is fortunate that Xian Junwang is generous. It would not be good if he was angry with Xi Wan because of this.”

Hearing the intention to blame in Hua Chu Yu’s voice, the smile on Hua Yi Liu’s face instantly froze. “Only you know to worry about Xi Wan. Then in the past, who caused Xi Wan to become ill and have to stay in bed for a few months?”

When Hua Chu Yu heard this, she wanted to argue that if it wasn’t Hua Yi Liu who had bumped into her, how would she have fallen into the pond and caused Xi Wan to go into the water to save her? But thinking how rare it was for Xi Wan to make a visit, she did not want to make the atmosphere tense, so she suppressed the anger inside.

“Elder Tang Jie really has a good memory. You still remember what happened so many years ago.” Hua Xi Wan put down the teacup in her hand and said sardonically, “I almost do not remember how that happened. Was it because you bumped into Second Tang Jie? Or did Second Tang Jieslip?”

Hua Yi Liu’s lips trembled. A moment later, she laughed dryly. “I do not remember it clearly.”

Hua Chu Yu laughed lightly and did not say anything. But the personal servant girls of the misses all knew what this light laugh meant. The two servant girls who served Hua Yi Liu unconsciously bowed their heads.

Hua Yi Liu’s expression did not change, but she felt a burst of hatred. She was sitting here to be the laughingstock for Hua Xi Wan and Hua Chu Yu. She wanted to leave, but because she had to consider Hua Xi Wan’s identity, she had to smile.

“I remember you always have a dif icult time in the summer. How has your sleep and appetite been recently?” Hua Chu Yu was too lazy to argue with Hua Yi Liu and decided to ignore her. She put all of her attention on Hua Xi Wan. “Are the servants in Junwang Fu serving you well?”

“The servants are good, and Junwang Fu has strict etiquette. They do not dare to slack off.” Hua Xi Wan clapped her hands. “Speaking of that, I discover I have forgotten something. A few days ago, I found some rare

copies of poem collections in the fu. I thought you would like them, so I had people copy them for you. Later, I will have Bai Xia give them to your servant girls.”

“Really?” Hua Chu Yu’s expression became joyful, and then she immediately said, “I cannot wait. Why doesn’t good Bai Xia give them to me now?”

“Second Miss, please wait for a moment.” Bai Xia curtsied towards Hua Chu Yu. “Even if you call this servant Bad Bai Xia, this servant will give them to you.”

“Such a good servant girl, I don’t bear to say the word bad.” Hua Chu Yu covered her mouth and laughed lightly. “Quick, give me the poem collection. I will give you more praise.”

“This room is slightly suffocating. I am going out for a walk.” At the side, Hua Yi Liu suddenly stood, threw down the words, and then left with her two servant girls.

“Do not pay attention to her; her personality has become even stranger recently.” Hua Chu Yu was worried that Hua Xi Wan’s mood would be affected and hurriedly comforted. “She has been like this to me the last few days. It seems as though all of the Hua Family owes her something.”

Hua Xi Wan raised her eyebrow. “It’s nothing.”

Seeing that she really did not care, Hua Chu Yu sighed and said, “I do understand that she is not in a good mood because of Master Zhou’s tongfang, but there is no reason in this world for everyone to tolerate her so because she is slightly unlucky. Even if we tolerate her, what is the use? After she marries into the Zhou Family, it will only be useful if her husband can tolerate her, if her mother and father-in-law will tolerate her.”

Hua Xi Wan knew that Hua Yi Liu was not an easy-going person and that she liked to overthink. If she married into the Zhou Family, she would have to suffer a few blows before she would learn. “Not everyone in the world is like her parents and would tolerate her.”

Hua Chu Yu wanted to say that even her parents could not tolerate her in everything, but when she thought of her mother’s usual conduct, she sighed. She did not have the face to say this.

“Right, where is Lu Zhu?” Hua Chu Yu only saw Bai Xia, Zi Shan, and Hong Ying. She found it strange. “Did she not return with you?”

“There needs to be someone keeping an eye out in the junwang fu, so I had her stay.” Hua Xi Wan took a sip of the digestive tea, yawned and said, “Tonight, don’t leave. Stay and talk to me. Now that I have married into the junwang fu, I cannot frequently meet you like in the past.”

“Even if you throw me out today, I will not leave.” Hua Chu Yu stood and sat down on the chair nearest to Hua Xi Wan. She grimaced and said,

“These days, my mother is picking potential husbands for me, and likes comparing me to you.” Speaking of this, she felt slightly helpless. “Children should not criticize their mothers. In the future, if she offends you in speech, I am going to apologize to you now. Please have some more tolerance. Truthfully, she does not have bad intentions.”

Hua Xi Wan saw the embarrassment on Hua Chu Yu’s face. She nodded and said, “I understand Third Aunt’s conduct.”

Hua Chu Yu still had a grimace. She was grateful yet felt that she was being unjust to Hua Xi Wan. If it wasn’t for her mother spreading rumors outside, then would there be any rumors that Hua Xi Wan had no beauty? She just hadn’t expected that some nonsense that her mother said outside would spread to the point where all of Jing knew it. That was completely unexpected.

In the junwang fu, Mu Tong stood outside the study. Looking at the burning sun in the sky, he couldn’t help but take out a handkerchief to wipe the sweat on his forehead. Just as he put away the handkerchief, he saw a woman in a green robe come over. His brow creased and he stopped the other person. “Isn’t this Miss Lu Zhu—do you have a matter?”

Lu Zhu properly bowed to Mu Tong. “It is hot today, so I made a sour plum shaved ice to relieve the heat for Junwang Ye. Please, Chief Steward Mu, take this in.” She pushed the tray towards Mu Tong and did not show any intentions of entering the study.

Mu Tong looked at the tray and smiled insincerely. “There is probably something that Miss Lu Zhu does not know. Junwang Ye does not like to use anything sour. Miss Lu Zhu, you can enjoy this sour plum shaved ice yourself. This study is an important place and you should not casually come close. In the future, if you are punished because of this, do not blame me for not reminding Miss.”

She had never been treated so impolitely by Mu Tong before. Lu Zhu was stunned and refocused after a moment. Looking at Mu Tong’s insincere smile, she avoided his eyes and said in a soft voice, “Since that is the case, then I will not disturb you further.”

Mu Tong watched coldly as Lu Zhu left with the tray. When the other was seven steps away from him, he called out to her, “Miss Lu Zhu.”

Lu Zhu stilled in her steps. She had a faint smile on her face when she turned back. “Is there something else, Chief Steward Mu?”

“Nothing.” Mu Tong smiled. “Please take care.”

Puzzlement lashed through Lu Zhu’s eyes. When she came out of the yard, she still didn’t understand what Mu Tong had meant with those words.

Seeing Lu Zhu’s igure disappear into the corridors, Mu Tong snorted. In the past, he thought that this was a smart servant girl, but recently, she had not been attending to her duties. She dared to make food for

Junwang Ye of her own accord. She should think about what her status was.

Junwang Fei appeared to be one that was hands-off but in reality was someone dif icult to fool. Lu Zhu was putting herself onto the road to death. He turned and looked at the other servants who were guarding the study and said disdainfully, “What is most important in being a servant is not how skilled you are, it is loyalty. If one has thoughts they should not…” He narrowed his eyes. “Just watch this Miss Lu Zhu’s ending.”

He also wanted to see what this junwang fei‘s actual ability was.

Hua Xi Wan rested for a night at Yi’an Marquis Fu. Just as she dressed and before she could have the morning meal, she heard the servant report that Junwang Ye had come to take her back to the fu.

Arranging the hairpins in Hua Xi Wan’s hair, Hua Chu Yu took a step back and looked carefully before saying with a smile, “Very beautiful.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and walked together with Hua Chu Yu outside the yard. Breathing in the fresh air of the morning, she turned to look at Hua Chu Yu, saying, “I remember you like to collect the morning dew to make tea.”

“It is a pity that the good tea I made mostly went into a lazy person like you.” Hua Chu Yu sighed and shook her head. “But you are not a person

who understands.”

“There is good in being common, and in being re ined. This is called the great common and the great re ined.” Hua Xi Wan shook her head carelessly. “If the entire room is full of re ined people, what is the interest?”

Hua Chu Yu wanted to laugh and say she was making excuses. When she raised her head, she saw a man dressed in brocade at the end of the corridor with some taijian and servant girls who was heading towards them. She stopped walking and said with a faint smile, “Someone has come for you.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled at her and said a few more words before she walked towards Yan Jin Qiu.

Hua Chu Yu silently stood where she was. She waited for Xian Junwang to inish smiling at Hua Xi Wan as he spoke to her, arrange Xi Wan’s hairpins for her before they disappeared together in the corridor. She then slowly started walking with her servant girls.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

妾 qie: I, your servant (used by a wife or concubine) 郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang Chapter Twenty-Eight: A Beauty’s Anger

The soup dumplings of Yi’an Marquis Fu were fresh and fragrant. They were what Hua Xi Wan liked to eat the most before her marriage, so early in the morning of the seventh, Lu shi had arranged for the servants to make the porridge that Hua Xi Wan liked to drink, the soup dumplings she liked to eat, and all kinds of little dishes.

Yan Jin Qiu accompanied Hua Xi Wan to the main yard to greet the parents before the entire family moved to the meal hall. Together, they ate this morning meal that was more than an hour later than usual.

After washing his hands and waiting for Hua He Sheng and Lu shi to move their chopsticks irst, Yan Jin Qiu picked up his chopsticks to grip a crystal little soup dumpling to put into Hua Xi Wan’s plate. Then with a natural movement, he poured a small bowl of almond milk to place next to her left hand. After doing all this, he started to serve himself what he liked to eat.

Lu shi noticed his movements and there was a content expression in her eyes. Even the candied fruits that she usually ate were much more delicious than usual.

She had been thirsty when she got up, so Hua Xi Wan quickly drank the half bowl of almond milk. Putting it down, she pushed the bowl in Yan Jin Qiu’s direction and then smiled. Lu shi saw this and originally wanted to order a servant beside her to pour for her daughter. But when she saw Bai Xia and the other personal servant girls did not move at all, she thought about it again and then she pretended to not see this.

Hua Yi Liu’s movements slowed after she saw the two interact. She looked at Xian Junwang‘s considerate actions, and her hand gripped the spoon tighter. She found that Hua Chu Yu was looking at her. She looked back coldly at the other and bent her head to drink the porridge in her bowl that had become tasteless.

Sun shi‘s gaze seemed to accidentally sweep over the two, and then she moved her eyes away with a slight smile.

After the meal, Hua Xi Wan was going back with Yan Jin Qiu to the junwang fu. Before she got onto the carriage, she turned to face her father and two brothers behind her. A moment later, she said, “Do not miss me, take care.”

Hua He Sheng watched as his daughter got on the carriage. A curtain blocked off his eyesight. As the carriage moved away, his gaze moved away with it. Only when the carriage disappeared did he turn and say to his sons, “Return.”

Just now when she left, Xi Wan had said only six words, but he could hear the deep meaning contained in these words.

Xian Junwang was of a deep mind, and very ambitious. However, he was one who could act. Xi Wan was not willing for the marquis fu to be pulled into this, so she had said “take care.”

Hua Chang Bao followed his father with a serious expression. Thinking about his sister who had been taken away in that grand carriage, he sighed inwardly.

On the carriage, Yan Jin Qiu played with two carved pits[i]. He tilted his head and smiled at Hua Xi Wan, saying, “Does Xi Wan know the trumpet vine[ii]? This kind of lower is beautiful when it blooms, but in truth, even the proudest lower can only bloom when relying on the support of others.”

“A lower like the trumpet lower sounds proud, but it is not like that.” The corner of Hua Xi Wan’s mouth rose as she said sardonically, “Flowers are just a decoration. We can just look at them. Why do we have to study how they grow?”

Yan Jin Qiu examined her with a faint smile. A moment later, he threw the carved pits back into a beautiful box. “You are right.”

Hua Xi Wan curled the corners of her lips but did not speak.

When the carriage entered the junwang fu, Hua Xi Wan got off irst. She did not wait for Yan Jin Qiu to come out, taking Bai Xia’s hand and preparing to go back to the main yard.

“Xi Wan.” Yan Jin Qiu poked his head out of the carriage. He looked at Hua Xi Wan’s back and said, “Why are you walking so quickly?”

Hua Xi Wan turned her head back to look at the man sitting in the carriage. She raised her chin slightly and snorted. She said, “Junwang Ye still has important matters, qie won’t disturb you.” Finishing, she turned to leave. When she had walked a few steps, she saw that there was a piece of rock poking out of the fake mountain. She stopped and said, “This fake mountain has a protrusion; it doesn’t look pleasing.”

After she said this, she took a few steps back, raised her skirts to her waist and then kicked forcefully. With a crack, the protruding piece fell to the ground.

“This looks much more pleasing.” Hua Xi Wan turned to smile brightly at Yan Jin Qiu. “What do you think, Junwang Ye?” After she said this, she did not wait for Yan Jin Qiu’s reply. She elegantly put down her skirts, then allowed Bai Xia and the other servant girls to neaten the corners of her dress before she lowed away.

In a deathly silence, Mu Tong looked at the corner of the fake mountain that had been broken off due to the kick. He felt that his calves were hurting. After swallowing, he said, “What are you dazing about for? Since Junwang Fei said this fake mountain is not pleasing, demolish it and put something else up.”

“Yes.” The frightened servants inally reacted and started to clean up the fake mountain. A brave servant glanced out of the corner of his eye at Junwang Ye. He sighed inside, as expected of Junwang Ye. Even though Junwang Fei was so valiant, he could still sit with a normal expression in the carriage.

“Junwang Ye?” Mu Tong went forward and called.

There was no response.

“Junwang Ye?”

Yan Jin Qiu turned to glance coldly at him. “Take this fake mountain away, and plant a bush of roses.”

Plant roses with thorns by a path? Mu Tong looked in puzzlement at Junwang Ye. Seeing the other’s serious expression, he lowered his head and said, “This small one will remember.”

Fine, roses. At least that was better than the round bulbs from the eastern countries that had thorns but no leaves.

When Hua Xi Wan returned to the main yard, she took down her palace wear and put on a iery red silk dress. After she used a blood jade hairpin to put up her hair, she summoned a non-descript second-rank servant girl. “What did Lu Zhu do yesterday?”

This second-rank servant girl obediently narrated Lu Zhu’s conduct for the whole day before falling silent with a bowed head.

“Bai Xia, how long has Lu Zhu served me? Hua Xi Wan used a brush to draw a blooming blood blossom on her brow and threw a seductive glance. “Time is what wears down people the most. Good could become bad, yet bad can become good.”

Bai Xia and the other two did not dare to speak because they had been with their mistress for many years. They naturally knew that their mistress was angry.

“Come, get Lu Zhu.” She put down the brush and examined her own makeup in the mirror. She used the charcoal to draw her eyebrows. She then opened a random jewelry box. The things inside almost dazzled the eyes.

“Mistress.” Seeing this, Bai Xia and the others knelt.

Hua Xi Wan seemed to not see them kneeling down. She picked out a bangle inlaid with red stones and slowly put it on her wrist.

The room was so silent that the sound of breathing was clear to hear. No one dared to move. They even tried to lessen the sound of their breathing.

“Junwang Fei, Junwang Ye has sent someone to deliver a box of precious stones,” a servant reported.

“Put it down.” Hua Xi Wan didn’t even look at the precious stones the servant delivered. Her white hand picked up the bright green teacup without any expression.

When Lu Zhu came into the main room following the servant girl, she detected the mood was not right. When she saw her mistress wearing a red long-sleeved dress and sitting expressionlessly in the main seat,

and her other three sisters kneeling on the ground, her heart skipped a beat. Her knees weakened and she knelt down.

“Dong.” This was the sound of the teacup touching the table. It was very small, but it was enough to frighten Lu Zhu’s heart into beating rapidly.

“Lu Zhu is seventeen this year, right?” Hua Xi Wan propped her hand on her chin as she looked lazily at Lu Zhu kneeling in front of her. She sighed and said, “You have been with me at least six years.”

“Miss, this servant has made a mistake.” Before Hua Xi Wan could say anything else, Lu Zhu started to beg. “This servant was possessed for a moment. Please, Mistress, based on our relationship of mistress and servant these years, please give this servant another chance.”

When Hua Xi Wan saw her act like this, she smiled rather than get angry. “What kind of relationship could get you to have thoughts of getting close to your male master?”

Lu Zhu had always been in the inner compound and had not seen many outstanding males. Seeing Junwang Ye being so gentle to her mistress, after a while, she had thoughts that she should not have. Right now, as she was exposed in front of her sisters, her face paled and she was unable to defend herself. She knew what she should say, but under her mistress’ humoring gaze, she wasn’t able to make a sound.

“Junwang Fei, Junwang Ye has sent this small one with two plates of fresh lychee for you.” When Mu Tong walked into the main room, his gaze swept straight past Lu Zhu, and then he bowed in front of Hua Xi Wan. “This is produced in the Yue Area[iii]—have a taste and see if you like it?”

“Put it there.” Hua Xi Wan did not look at the two plates of lychee. “Junwang Ye has spent great effort.”

Seeing this, Mu Tong could only put down the things and retreat. It seemed that Junwang Fei was still angry. Nothing that Junwang Ye sent now would be of use.

“When I married, the marquis fu gave your contracts to me.” Hua Xi Wan put out a contract and slowly said, “You can go.”

“Mistress!” Lu Zhu had not expected that her mistress would neither scold nor beat her, but would have her leave the junwang fu. But she was a young female. What could she do outside the junwang fu?

” I had said this before I married. What is the use in begging for mercy now? When you did this behind my back, you should have thought about this result.” Hua Xi Wan looked coldly at Lu Zhu. “I’m letting you go to protect your face. Otherwise, you won’t even protect your own reputation.”

At this time, Lu Zhu was very regretful and irritated with herself. She had originally thought, based on her and Mistress’ relationship these years, if Junwang Ye really wanted her, the mistress would give her a position because of these years. But who knew that the matter would turn out like this. The junwang ye didn’t want her, and the mistress had no mercy.

She wanted to call Bai Xia and the others to plead on her behalf, but when she looked at them, they buried their heads where they were kneeling and didn’t even have the courage to look at her.

In this moment, the hopelessness inside turned to fury. “Mistress, you are born beautiful and noble. To you, anything is just a word away. But this servant’s birth is not as good as that of the ladies of prestigious families, and I am fated to never have good matters. I do not even dare to look much at the man I love. How can you understand the pain I feel?

“What do you love about him?” Hua Xi Wan looked expressionlessly at Lu Zhu. “If it is beauty, there will always be a day when he will become old. If it is talent, can you speak poetry and make songs? If it is personality, when has he been good to you—you do not even know what kind of person he is. You dare to use the word love?”

Lu Zhu was unable to argue, but she felt that she was not as shallow as Mistress was saying. She fell in love with Junwang Ye at irst sight and not for anything else.

“Or is it that you like Xian Junwang‘s outstanding appearance? If he were a scholar from a common family, would you still like him?”

“If Junwang Ye was a scholar from a common family, Mistress, would you look at him?”

“Of course not.” Hua Xi Wan snorted. “I was born a noble lady of the marquis fu; I was fated to marry a male from a prestigious family. If he was a common scholar, what chance would he have of appearing in front of me?”

“Then isn’t what you like Junwang Ye‘s status?” Lu Zhu felt angry on behalf of Junwang Ye. He was so considerate to Mistress, but Mistress was so cold and emotionless. Even she, a servant girl, could see the love Junwang Ye had for Mistress. Would a person as intelligent as Mistress not detect it?

“Then do you know what he likes about me?” Hua Xi Wan closed her eyes and did not look at Lu Zhu. “Go. Starting from today, our relationship of mistress and servant has ended.”

Lu Zhu dazedly looked at the red-clothed female and then kowtowed three times. “Mistress, please, treat Junwang Ye well in the future. Lu Zhu bids farewell.” Finishing, she turned and walked out of the main room.

After Lu Zhu left, Hua Xi Wan said coolly, “All of you, stand up.”

She was never a person to easily get soft-hearted. In the past, she was so, and she would be so in the future.

When Bai Xia and the others had learned that Lu Zhu had intentions towards Junwang Ye, they were so frightened they paled. While they received orders to stand, their expressions did not ease greatly.

What was going on in Lu Zhu’s brain that she would say such nonsense?

[i] The carved pits are of walnuts, peach and other fruits.

凌霄

[ii] The trumpet vine’s name in Chinese is ling xiao ( ), ling meaning rise or approaching a summit, xiao meaning the sky or the irmament.

[iii] Yue is another term for the area that is now called Guangdong.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 嬷嬷 mama: old female servant 郡王爷 junwang ye, 王爷 wang ye: His [Your] Royal Highness 表姐 biaojie: father’s sister’s (older) daughter; or mother’s sibling’s (older) daughter

##

Chapter Twenty-Nine: Pass Away

Watching as Lu Zhu stopped beseeching Mistress and really turned to leave, Bai Xia felt as though her legs would go soft. If Mistress had sentenced Lu Zhu to a beating or sent her to the outer compound to do heavy work, it would have still been more benevolent that having her leave the junwang fu. If Lu Zhu stepped out of the junwang fu today, another corpse would end up in the mass grave tomorrow.

“Junwang Fei.” Bai Xia knelt down again. She wanted to plead, but she didn’t know what to say. Ask Mistress to spare Lu Zhu once? But Mistress did not beat or scold the other, and she even let Lu Zhu leave the fu. Ask Mistress to let Lu Zhu stay? But which female mistress could tolerate a servant girl around them who had intentions towards the male master?

Her lips trembled. A moment later, she said, “Mistress is kind.”

Hua Xi Wan looked hard at her. A moment later, she moved her gaze away and said, “If any of you have someone you like, remember to tell me. We are mistress and servant, I will not let you have a marriage that slights you.”

“Mistress, this servant and the others do not have any disloyalty. If we break our oath, we will…” Zi Shan, Bai Xia and Hong Ying knelt in fright. They wanted to express their intentions. As long as Mistress believed them, it would be well.

“All right.” Hua Xi Wan’s gaze moved past them towards the yard that was illuminated in the sun. “Stand up, do what you are supposed to be doing.” Finishing, she pointed at the second-rank servant girl who had told her Lu Zhu’s actions of yesterday. “Starting today, you take over Lu Zhu’s empty position. Change the name as well—you will be Cheng Qiu.”

“This servant thanks Junwang Fei for the name.” Cheng Qiu was overjoyed, but she was proper when she went forward and curtsied.

After bowing to Hua Xi Wan, she then made bows towards Bai Xia and the others before silently retreating to the side.

Hua Xi Wan did not care what they thought. She leaned against the chaise and started to rest.

“Pah! You blind slut, is such a noble room one you can stay in? Quick, get out, do not dirty our eyes.” A heavy labor mama pointed at the crow on the branch that was cawing. There were two old women beside her who were cheering her on.

Lu Zhu had a bag on her back as she listened to these words that were actually for her. She felt both sad and humiliated. She looked at the crow that was cawing on top of the branch and felt very sorrowful.

She had served Mistress for so many years. Even if she did not have merit, she had worked hard, yet this was her outcome. Such a cold and emotionless woman remaining at the side of Junwang Ye, wouldn’t it cause him harm?

Suddenly, she saw a procession far away in the corridor. The man at the front was wearing white robes, with a feather fan and a jade coronet. Who was that if not Junwang Ye?

“Junwang…”

Before she could inish, someone covered her mouth. Then another person pressed her to the ground. Smelling the dirt, she wanted to turn and see who dared to grab her, but the person pressed her face into the ground. The mud went into her nose and mouth.

“Shameless lowly servant, you dare to run and shout in the junwang fu. Why don’t you look in the mirror and see who you are? You dare to have thoughts. Do you think you are still a personal servant girl of Junwang Fei?” A brawny woman pulled her hair and slapped her face. “Our junwang fu does not have someone this shameless. Get out!”

The other women who had been watching started to pull Lu Zhu outside when they heard this. Maybe it was intentional or not, but the bag that was tightly tied slipped open. The clothing, jewelry and silver that had been inside spilled to the ground. Lu Zhu wanted to pick them up, but the women didn’t just stomp on her hands—one of them pulled her by her clothing and started to walk.

“You betray your mistress and you have the face to take the things your mistress has given you? Us rough women have never been educated and don’t know how to read, but we know what loyalty is.” The old female servant who was pulling her out scolded, “You dare to do this just because you know that Junwang Fei is a gentle person!”

Lu Zhu stilled. Even when she was pushed out of the little door to the junwang fu, she did not recover. Had she dared to throw a temper tantrum at Mistress because her mistress had treated them well usually?

The little door slammed shut. She was dirty and disheveled and did not have the glory she had when she had been serving Junwang Fei. Watching the passersby walk past on the road, she instantly felt terri ied and regretful. The world was so large—where could she go?

A short while later, a wagon pulled by a donkey passed the little door to the inner compound, and then there was no igure any longer.

##

“Junwang Ye, the matter has been done.” A middle-aged man wearing blue robes bowed in front of Yan Jin Qiu. “The corpse has been cleaned away.”

“En.” Yan Jin Qiu looked expressionlessly at the ordinary middle-aged man. “You are sure that someone saw you when you acted?”

“Yes.” The middle-aged man lowered his head and said, “The ones who saw were the procurer stewards of Sheng Junwang Fu and Xu Wang Fu. Someone has reported to the authorities already.”

Yan Jin Qiu silently nodded and waved for him to leave. He then turned and said to Mu Tong who standing in the corner. “You need not conceal this from Junwang Fei. However, mention this only after the case is resolved.”

Mu Tong was irst puzzled and then he understood Junwang Ye‘s intentions. If Junwang Ye knew right after the event occurred, wouldn’t that cause Junwang Fei to suspect they cared greatly about this servant girl? If they told Junwang Fei after the fact, however, it would cause Junwang Fei to feel that Junwang Ye did not care about Lu Zhu, but out of his care and respect to Junwang Fei, he instantly informed Junwang Fei when he learned about the matter.

What Yan Jin Qiu was most satis ied about Mu Tong was that he had brains, was reliable and perceptive. He felt it was easy to use a person like this, and there were no worries he needed to have.

##

A not-so-insigni icant matter happened recently in Jing. That was, a servant girl of Xian Junwang Fu had been thrown out of the fu for having unclean hands and was killed by several ruf ians. If it wasn’t for the stewards from Xu Wang Fu and Sheng Junwang Fu who coincidentally caught the people and reported it, this little servant girl would have lost her life for nothing. Yet the result of the investigation was shocking because these ruf ians were actually manservants in the Crown Prince’s fu.

While a matter of ruf ians killing a woman by the roadside was a terrible one, if it wasn’t that it was related to the Crown Prince and Xian Junwang, the entire city would not know.

Everyone knew that the people of the Crown Prince’s fu were arrogant and domineering, but it really was too daring to kill women right in the middle of the day. It was unknown who suddenly mentioned that the Crown Prince was related to the case of Master Zhang and caused many people who were educated to discuss how the Crown Prince Fu did not care about the people. There were even people who said that the Crown Prince was tyrannical and did not have the capability to be the crown prince. If the future king of the Great Zhao Dynasty would be a person like this, then wouldn’t all the people have terrible days in the future?

The Zhang Family was a literary family. Even though they did not hold any power, they were very famous and well-respected by the scholars. When this matter came out, all the scholars in the world stood up. The rumors about the absurd conduct of the Crown Prince quickly spread through all of the Great Zhao. It almost seemed as though if the Emperor did not give a resolution and punish the Crown Prince, these scholars would keep on making a fuss.

As the master of the Great Zhao Dynasty, Qi Long Emperor heard the reports from these scholars and was so angry he summoned the Crown Prince into the palace to scold him. But when the matter reached this level, it was not something that could be resolved by a scolding of the Crown Prince.

In the end, this case ended with the execution of the manservants from the Crown Prince’s Fu. The Crown Prince also wrote an essay of selfre lection, apologizing on the surface but in reality pushing all the faults onto the manservants. His greatest wrong was not managing them strictly enough.

As to the case of Master Zhang, in the end, they managed to ind some bandits outside of Jing who came out of somewhere. Later, they confessed that, because they saw that Master Zhang was dressed well, they kidnapped him. But this Master Zhang was too impulsive in speech and caused them to kill him in anger.

After the case was resolved, no matter how many people believed it, the Emperor gave Old Master Zhang a second-rank marquis title. Then he had the Zhang Family adopt an orphan under the name of the two elders before this matter was smoothed over. However, the image of the Crown Prince fell greatly in the minds of the people of the Great Zhao.

No one had imagined that the case of a little servant girl being killed would cause such a great con lict. No one paid much attention to what she was even called. The matter became even more intense later on, and when it spread to areas further away than Jing, it became the Crown Prince killing a servant girl in a junwang fu.

The people of remote areas did not know how many wang ye there were in the Great Zhao Dynasty, but they still knew the one Crown Prince. In these rumors, the Crown Prince appeared as vicious, of ugly appearance, lowly conduct, and uncaring of the people.

So no matter how the Emperor helped disguise the Crown Prince, the reputation of the Crown Prince was a terrible one in the hearts of the common people. Even the Emperor became a bad emperor who did not know right from wrong.

When the matter of Lu Zhu passed into the inner compound, it was after the ruf ians had been identi ied.

After Hua Xi Wan listened to Mu Tong tell the events, she stared at Mu Tong silently for a moment before saying, “I know.”

When such a light sentence landed in Mu Tong’s ears, he felt it wasn’t right. It might have been a wrong impression, but he had a feeling that Junwang Fei seemed to know something. But when he raised his head to look at Junwang Fei, he only saw the calm on her face, as though Lu Zhu who had passed away was just a stranger, and not her personal servant girl.

“You can go.” Hua Xi Wan glanced at Mu Tong who was still standing in front of her. “Tell Junwang Ye that I am not feeling well these days. Please ask him to reside elsewhere.”

Mu Tong gave a deep bow. “This small one will leave.”

The room gradually quieted. Hua Xi Wan walked to the window to stand. After a long time of silence, she said, “Lu Zhu does not have parents, but she has a biaojie who has a position in Sheng Junwang Fu. I heard that she married a steward of the fu. Send someone with thirty taels of silver, and ask her to restrain her grief.”

Bai Xie was shocked. How come she had never heard Lu Zhu mention this?

As though she saw the wrongness in Bai Xia’s expression, Hua Xi Wan lowered her eyes and said, “She probably only met this biaojie after I married into the junwang fu.”

Lu Zhu’s old home had a natural disaster and her parents had passed away a long time ago. She had been sold into the marquis fu. Because she had a good appearance and she was smart, when Hua Xi Wan had been ten, she had come into the yard to serve her. Later on, Lu Zhu was promoted to a irst-rank servant girl. After these seven or so years, she had never expected the other to have such an ending.

When she heard that Lu Zhu had interactions with the people from Sheng Junwang Fu after Mistress married into the junwang fu, Bai Xia couldn’t help but think of many things. The more she thought, the more afraid she was. It was fortunate that Mistress was still well, otherwise… Zi Shan and Hong Ying also reacted. They hadn’t imagined that Lu Zhu had such daring to work together with the people from other fu. If Junwang Yediscovered this, he would be wary of Mistress. Wouldn’t that push Mistress into a pit of ire?

“No wonder her recent actions had been so strange. She even switched the night guard with me of her own accord, and that is a poor duty.” Zi Shang couldn’t help but think back to Lu Zhu’s conduct these past days. Then she recalled how the other had switched for the night guard with her a few times. The more she thought, the less happy she was. She was furious and also felt pity. If Lu Zhu had not had thoughts she should not have, how would she have such an ending? Mistress had found out her actions a long time ago but did not expose her due to the years of history between them. Mistress had hoped that she would awaken and regret it. Who knew that she would become even more daring and have

such thoughts that were not allowed… The senior servant girls who had originally felt that Mistress was too vicious now felt that Mistress was extremely good to Lu Zhu. It was Lu Zhu who didn’t treasure her good fortune and brought her death upon herself.

If she was still a irst-rank personal servant girl of Mistress, who in the fu would not respect her and give her some face? How would she have encountered the manservants from the Crown Prince and died such an ignoble death?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound 太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

妾 qie: I, your servant (used by a wife or concubine) 哀家 aijia: lit. “grieving one”; illeism for the empress dowager 本宫 ben gong: lit. “this palace”; illeism for high-ranked denizens of the Imperial Palace

堂 tang: relatives with the same surname Chapter Thirty: Peaceful Relations

It was two days later when Yan Jin Qiu stepped into the inner compound. At this time, the sunshine was perfect. He stood in the shadows as he watched Hua Xi Wan listen to the performance of a vocal mimicry performer. After his expression changed a few times, he still stood where he was and did not go forward.

What the vocal mimicry performer was performing was the “Hundred Birds Paying Respects to the Phoenix.” There were all kinds of bird sounds, and even the sound of wind in the valley was nimble and realistic. There were also the sounds of water lowing in the mountains, the sound of ish leaping out of the water. When Hua Xi Wan closed her eyes, she seemed to see a paradise.

There were too many skills in the ancient era that were lost in the river of time. In the modern era, she had always been exceptionally respectful of all kinds of old experts. Because acting was a hard job, she rarely went to watch these performances. Now that she had such a good chance, how could she bear to miss the performance of someone who had over ifty years of experience in vocal mimicry? After he inished performing, Hua Xi Wan had a servant bring him a bowl of water to moisten his throat. Only when he inished drinking did she say, “Old Mister, your skill is really good, as expected of a vocal mimicry prestigious family.”

Hearing this, the old person was startled by the praise. “It is this old man’s good fortune for eight lifetimes to be able to receive praise from Junwang Fei.” He was someone who sold his talents. If it was said nicely, his was called a vocal mimicry prestigious family, but in reality, they were the lowest of the low who were eking out a survival. He usually encountered many rolls of the eyes and never imagined that he would

have a chance to perform in front of Junwang Fei and have her call him “Mister.”

“Old Mister, do not be too humble,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “Your performance is so realistic—not everyone can do this. If Old Mister does not disdain the junwang fu for being so crude, please come frequently to the junwang fu to perform.”

Hearing this, the old person was overjoyed. He hurriedly bowed and said, “Junwang Fei likes to hear this, it is this old man’s good fortune to come to the junwang fu to perform and he doesn’t dare to disdain it.”

A taijian came forward to help the old person up. Bai Xia gave the old man another pouch that was illed with some silver.” Since Old Mister does not disdain this, then please come frequently to the junwang fu to perform. Our junwang fei likes things like this.” The old man weighed in his hand the pouch that was substantial. After bowing and thanking Hua Xi Wan and Bai Xia, he followed a manservant out of the yard. When he reached the corridor, he saw the manservant leading him kneel down. He didn’t dare to raise his head and guessed there was a noble personage in front of him, so he followed in kneeling.

“Stand up. Since Junwang Fei likes this old mister’s performance, remember to take care to send him back.”

The old person could hear that this voice was extremely young. When he was standing up, he saw a man dressed in grand white robes standing in the shadows. He was old, but his eyesight was still good.

With just a peek, he felt this young man was unspeakably handsome. After going to so many places in these years, he had never seen such a good-looking young person.

When the old performer followed the young servant out of the compound, the young servant said with a smile, “Old Mister, you really have good luck. Just now, the one who spoke is our junwang ye. You will have good fortune in the future.”

“Junwang Ye?” The old man looked with shock at the young manservant. After seeing him nod in certainty, he trembled and said, “Heavens, I really had good luck today.” Finishing, he took out a piece of silver from the pouch to give to the young servant. But after the young servant would not accept it no matter what, he could only put it away.

When he sat on the carriage the junwang fu had prepared to go back to his home, the old person touched the pouch and could not suppress the joyful expression. That junwang fei had a clear and delicate brow, open eyes and a delicate nose—this was a face of nobility. That junwang ye‘s presence was extraordinary, and with a glance, it was possible to see that this was someone with good fortune and nobility. These two were both of extraordinary appearance, and even their faces were the rare faces of nobility. As expected of Junwang Ye and Junwang Fei. Their presence was different than that of normal people.

Under the shadow of the tree, Hua Xi Wan looked with half-lidded eyes as Yan Jin Qiu walked towards her. She put the fan in her hand on the table and raised the mung-bean soup to slowly drink it. When Yan Jin Qiu walked close, she still didn’t put down the bowl in her hand.

Yan Jin Qiu saw that Hua Xi Wan ignored him and silently sat down by her side. After seeing her drink half of the bowl, he said, “There has been a few days since we went into the palace to see Imperial Grandmother. Will you go with me tomorrow?”

Hua Xi Wan put down the bowl and took the tea that Hong Ying handed over to rinse her mouth. After she slowly wiped her mouth with a handkerchief, she said, “Since Junwang Ye has said so, qie will naturally obey.”

“I already said that we do not need to be like this between us.” Yan Jin Qiu beckoned at Mu Tong and took a sandalwood box from him. “A few days ago, you said you like the embroidery of the Shu area. I had people embroider some handkerchiefs in a rush. See if they it your desire. If you like them, then have them make a few dresses for you.”

Hua Xi Wan took the box from his hand. Opening the box and looking at the handkerchiefs in the box, she looked at Yan Jin Qiu with a smile and nodded. She said, “It was trouble for Junwang Ye to spend so much thought.” Finishing, she did not say if she liked them or not. She put the box to one side.

Yan Jin Qiu’s gaze swept across the box that had been put aside, then over the male and female servants around them. He waved his hand for them to retreat before he sighed and said, “Xi Wan, sometimes, I really do not understand what you think.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan smiled rather than get angry. “Sometimes, I think the same way that you do.”

Yan Jin Qiu’s expression stilled for a moment. He moved his gave aside slightly. “We are husband and wife—what can we not talk about?”

Hua Xi Wan stared at him. A moment later, she smiled and said, “Then what you want to say to me, I will de initely listen.”

The mood instantly became heavy. A long time later, Yan Jin Qiu raised a hand to brush the scattered hairs by her ear. He said with a sigh, “Let us have good days and not have unhappiness due to little matters. It doesn’t just harm our love, it is not good for you and I.”

The hand by her face held some warmth. Hua Xi Wan raised her head to look at this man who had a warm smile. Gradually, a smile appeared at the corner of her lips. “All right.”

Yan Jin Qiu curled an arm around her waist to carry her and then… he stumbled.

Hua Xi Wan lipped out of his arms and said with a smile, “I’ll walk.” The public knew that Xian Junwang only liked scholarly pursuits, not martial ones. He, who did not like martial pursuits, could he easily carry someone?

She turned her head to look at the servants standing at a distance. She allowed Yan Jin Qiu to grip her hand, and then under the other’s awkward smile, she said considerately, “It is nothing if you cannot carry me. I might look thin, but I do have some weight.”

Yan Jin Qiu: “…” He felt that he was not comforted, especially when the other was smiling without any sincerity.

The servants in the inner compound discovered that Junwang Ye had moved back to reside in the inner compound. He also piled a lot of things into Junwang Fei‘s personal stores. Junwang Fei was still idly eating, drinking and playing, as though the matter of Junwang Ye staying for a few successive nights in the study had never occurred.

Mu Tong, Bai Xia and the other people sighed in relief. It was not good for the servants if the mistress and master were in con lict. Now that they were as good as they were before, it was the best.

Hua Xi Wan had not come into the Imperial Palace many times. One reason was that they needed to avoid doing this because of their status, the second was because she was too lazy to cross swords in secret with the people of the Imperial Palace. But no matter what, they had to work on the surface. Just like the Empress and the Empress Dowager. They clearly had no feelings between them, but at important occasions, they had to project that the mother and daughter-in-law had harmonious relations.

The Fu Kang Palace where the Empress Dowager lived gave Hua Xi Wan the feeling of luxury and heaviness. She looked at the palace maid who was ushering them. She thought of the Empress Dowager who was always satis ied with her, and then the Empress whose every sentence was illed with traps. She sighed inside.

When she looked into the inner rooms, the Empress was there as expected. She was not the only one present; the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess were also there. Hua Xi Wan glanced at Yan Jin Qiu. She went forward a few steps and said, “Xi Wan greets Imperial Grandmother. It has been a few days since we met, and Imperial Grandmother’s complexion looks better. Is it because grandson-wife has not come to bother Imperial Grandmother, so Imperial Grandmother is in a refreshed mood and energetic?”

“Aiya, aijia doesn’t bear to part with such a good grandson-wife.” The Empress Dowager broke into smiles at Hua Xi Wan’s words. She did not wait for Hua Xi Wan to greet the Empress and the others before pulling her closer. After a bout of praise, she said to Yan Jin Qiu, “I think that Xi Wan has become thinner these days. It seems that you, as her husband, is not taking good enough care of her.”

“Imperial Grandmother, Junwang Ye treats grandson-wife well. It’s just that it has been too hot lately, thus I have not eaten as much. In order to have grandson-wife eat more, Junwang Ye wants to give to grandsonwife everything that is good to eat and use in the fu. You cannot blame him. Otherwise, what will happen if he is not good to grandson-wife after we leave?” Hua Xi Wan grabbed her sleeve and explained with a red face. “Then grandson-wife can only ind you and cry, Imperial Grandmother.”

“He doesn’t dare.” The Empress Dowager had a servant bring a bench for Yan Jin Qiu, and then she said to the Empress, “Look at these juniors close together—aijia feels sweet inside.”

The Empress knew that that the Empress Dowager was directing this at the Crown Prince and Crown Princess. She said with a tense smile, “Mother-Empress is right.”

The Crown Princess glanced in admiration at Hua Xi Wan and then at the Crown Prince beside her. She felt both embarrassed and sad. She buried her head down.

The Crown Prince had taken a few looks at Hua Xi Wan, but because the Empress Dowager and Yan Jin Qiu were still present, he was not extremely obvious. However, his gaze when he looked at Hua Xi Wan caused Yan Jin Qiu’s eyebrows to shift slightly.

“Your Highness Crown Prince,” Yan Jin Qiu suddenly said, “I heard that Your Highness has been studying with Grand Tutor Zhong these days. Is Grand Tutor Zhong very strict?”

“Ah,” the Crown Prince sighed. Seeing the Empress stare at him, he forced a smile and said, “Grand Tutor Zhong is very knowledgeable, and ben gong has gained a lot from studying with him.” Thinking about the stern face of Grand Tutor Zhong, His Highness the Crown Prince felt suffocated.

“Grand Tutor Zhong is skilled in all four arts of zither, weiqi, drawing and writing. Most people cannot even ask for his teaching. It is very good that Your Highness can receive Grand Tutor Zhong’s teaching.” Yan Jin Qiu raised his folded hands at the Crown Prince. He said, “If subjectbrother has something that is not understandable, Your Highness, please teach me.”

“Haha, you are too polite, you are too polite.” The Crown Prince laughed dryly. Him going to teach Yan Jin Qiu who was outstandingly accomplished—this was a great joke.

Hua Xi Wan silently moved her gaze away. In front of Yan Jin Qiu, the Crown Prince’s intelligence had reached a new low that she didn’t even bear to look at. She sneaked a glance at the Empress, and the other was smiling insincerely as she expected and seemed to be suppressing anger. The Emperor and Empress were clearly smart people, so why didn’t the Crown Prince’s intelligence increase, but seemed to decrease?

The Empress wanted to speak but was interrupted by the Empress Dowager. “All right, you tang brothers are all good children, do not stand on courtesy. A few days ago, the Department of Household Affairs has sent someone with new blood swallow’s nests. I had the kitchen make some. You should all have a taste.”

When she inished speaking, some palace attendants came in with trays. Each tray had just one exquisite porcelain bow that was the size of a ist. Hua Xi Wan took a look as she accepted the bowl and then raised an eyebrow as she turned towards the Empress.

When the Empress saw the color of the cooked swallow’s nest, she instantly changed expression and then knelt down facing the Empress Dowager.

Hua Xi Wan had been sitting on a small bench in front of the Empress Dowager. Seeing the Empress kneel down, she hurriedly stood and walked next to Yan Jin Qiu who had stood up already.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

哀家 aijia: lit. “grieving one”; illeism for a widowed empress ⼉媳 erxi: wife of a son

[1]

郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 妃 fei: a higher-ranked imperial concubine

[2]

本宫 ben gong: lit. “this palace”; illeism for high-ranked denizens of the Imperial Palace

娘娘 niangniang: respectful term for an Emperor’s wife and concubines 堂 tang: relatives with the same surname

府 fu: compound or estate 妾 qie: I, your servant; deprecatory self-reference used by a wife or concubine

Chapter Thirty-One: Provocation

Seeing the Empress kneel, the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess could not still and followed in kneeling. Hua Xi Wan turned her head and saw Yan Jin Qiu standing at the side as though nothing was happening, so she followed in standing. It really wasn’t comfortable to kneel on such a hot day on the ground.

“Aijia is old and weak, and is someone to be disdained.” The Empress Dowager did not seem to see the Empress kneeling in front of her. The rims of her eyes were red. She seemed like a lonely senior who had lost all hope in her life. “Right now, even the palace attendants dare to bully aijia. What face does aijia have to live? Aijia should have passed with the previous emperor and should not have to stay in these cold rooms and eat these hideous things.”

⼉媳 erxi: wife of a son

“Mother-Empress, do not be angry. Erxi[1] will de initely punish those daring evil servants. You are the pillar of strength for Emperor and erxi. What face does erxi have to live if you say such things?” Before the Empress inished speaking, her tears started to low. “It is erxi‘s fault. Mother-Empress, please open your mind, do not be angry. Otherwise, erxi will not have the face to meet Emperor.”

The Empress knew something about the Department of Household Affairs occasionally neglecting Fu Kang Palace, but she had only said a few words and did not keep it on her mind. She had originally felt that with the personality of the Empress Dowager, she wouldn’t expose the matter to the public. Who knew that the Empress Dowager had exposed the matter so openly? If the knowledge of this matter spread, wouldn’t she and the Emperor become un ilial people?

The Great Zhao Dynasty governed by ilial piety, and always emphasized respecting the elders and loving the young. The Empress Dowager was not the birth mother of the Emperor, but from the day she was venerated as the Empress Dowager, she was the mother of the Emperor, the Empress Dowager whom all of the court had to respect. The honored Empress Dowager being slighted and neglected by servants in the palace—no one would believe that it was the palace attendants being daring; they would only think that she, the Empress, was purposely neglecting the Empress Dowager.

However, no matter how angry she was because of the Empress Dowager’s actions, the Empress only showed worry and regret. Her tears lowed from red eyes as she comforted the Empress Dowager and looked extremely ilial.

“All right, you are the Empress but the matters of the inner palace are many and it is normal that you occasionally do not catch something.” With a dejected expression, the Empress Dowager had a servant help the Empress up. She wiped the tears on her cheeks as she said, “It is aijiathinking too much.”

The words seemed like they were forgiving the Empress, but in reality, this was setting the crime of being inattentive on the Empress’ head. Moreover, the place where the other was inattentive was the Fu Kang Palace, and not any other place.

As Hua Xi Wan looked at the back and forth between mother and daughter-in-law, her heart couldn’t help but tremble. The Empress Dowager suddenly raised this issue and with such a crude method—it was de initely because something had happened in the inner palace. Out of a need for self-protection, the Empress Dowager had exposed this matter.

It might be good for the Empress Dowager to have the matter known widely. If something happened to the Empress Dowager, then the people who knew about this matter would subconsciously suspect the Emperor and Empress. Even if it had nothing to do with the Emperor and Empress, the two would not be able to clear themselves and explain to other people.

“Empress Dowager, His Highness Sheng Junwang and Sheng Junwang Fei ask to see you.”

It seemed that there were more people who wanted to watch. The Empress had not expected that Sheng Junwang would involve himself at this time. She even suspected that the Empress Dowager had purposefully planned this and was not giving her face in front of the two junwang. But no matter how she thought inside, she did not show it on her face. When she examined the Empress Dowager’s expression, she found the other showed surprise as though she had not expected Sheng Junwang and his wife to arrive.

“Have them come in.” The Empress Dowager neatened her clothing and hair. Even though she had recovered her usual aura, the slightly red rims of her eyes made people know at irst glance that she had cried.

The Crown Princess wanted to come forward and neaten the Empress’ clothing for her, but she was silently stopped by the Empress. The Empress slowly wiped the corners of her eyes and said, “Sit down.”

The Crown Princess sat down next to the Crown Prince with pressed lips. Her expression was slightly dark. At the side, the Crown Prince saw that the Empress Dowager and the Empress hadn’t continued, and he wanted to stand up and leave. When he heard of Sheng Junwang‘s arrival, he furrowed his brow in slight irritation. However, he was aware of the surroundings and did not act too obviously.

When Yan Bo Yi and Hou shi came in, they detected the atmosphere was not right. After the bows, they silently sat down at the side. Yan Bo Yi was not the same as Yan Jin Qiu. He had been raised at the knees of his parents, and did not have much of a relationship with the Empress Dowager. Coming to visit the Empress Dowager was just carrying out his duties.

Because the Empress Dowager had been crying just now, her voice was slightly hoarse when she spoke. Hou shi couldn’t help but ask, “Imperial Grandmother, is your body not feeling well?”

“There’s nothing, only that something minor just happened.” The Empress Dowager glanced at the Empress before continuing to speak to Hou shi. “I hadn’t expected you three brothers to come to aijia‘s place at the same time. Did you make an appointment?”

The Crown Prince was at great odds with Sheng Junwang. Hearing the Empress Dowager’s words, he glanced at Sheng Junwang disdainfully. Yan Jin Qiu smiled and said, “We did not agree, but everyone is just missing Imperial Grandmother.”

The Empress Dowager gave a smile at his words, and then she said to the Empress, “You can go and take care of the matter of the swallow’s nest that the Department of Household Affairs gave to aijia and which has changed color. Aijia will irst chat with these children. You are busy, you do not have to accompany aijia.”

Hearing this, the Empress stood and curtsied to the Empress Dowager. “Erxi bids farewell.”

Empress Dowager, this old person who wouldn’t die, kept on making trouble for her! The Empress’ expression changed a few times when she left Fu Kang Palace before she resumed her normal digni ied expression. Inside, she was extremely discontent over the Empress

Dowager’s actions. However, when she thought of the present state of the court, she could only grit her teeth and swallow it. She wanted to see how long this old woman could live!

夫⼈ furen: 妃 fei: a higher-ranked imperial concubine. “Empress.” A palace maid hurried over with a slightly pale face and lowered her voice to say at the Empress’ ear, “The Grand Doctor Department has sent information. Min Fei[2] has been pregnant for two months.”

“Two months?” The Empress’ eyebrow rose, and then she said with a smile, “It is a great and joyous matter for an imperial consort to be pregnant. Ben gong will go visit Min Fei; you go and prepare gifts. You cannot slight Min Fei niangniang.”

“Yes.” The palace maid’s expression gradually returned to normal when she heard this, and she silently moved to the side.

Inside Fu Kang Palace, the tang brothers who were rarely together and who were at odds were very polite in their words. But one had to ignore the lickering glances of the Crown Prince and the expressionless face of Sheng Junwang .

Because the day was hot, the palace maids carried over lotus cooling soup for them. Hua Xi Wan looked at the exquisite porcelain bowl in her

hand. This did not look as though the Empress Dowager was being slighted by the Department of Household Affairs.

She took a sip of the tea. There was a faint fragrance of the lotus leaf. It was slightly sweet and fragrant, cooling yet not cold. This kind of soup seemed normal but would take great care to make. It seemed that even the Empress Dowager’s chefs were not simple people.

“I heard that a few years ago Xian Junwang Fei‘s health was not well— how is it now?” the Crown Princess said. “I do not usually see you coming out to play. I have wanted to get close to you for a long time.”

“Your Highness Crown Princess, many thanks for the concern. My health is much better, but I still have dif iculty in the heat and fear the cold.” Hua Xi Wan wiped the corner of her mouth and said with regret, “I also want to come out and play with everyone, but I am worried about adding trouble. After thinking over, I just ended up staying in my fu.”

“There is no trouble to speak of between us, we are a family.” The Crown Princess examined Hua Xi Wan. The other was wearing an autumn-colored palace attire, and her skin was almost transparent. She did seem slightly thin and fragile. “If there is an opportunity in the future, we’ll de initely have a good talk.”

“Your Highness’s invitation is one that I will de initely attend if my body is up to it.” Hua Xi Wan smiled weakly and gave people the feeling of being soft and pitiful.

Even the Crown Princess who was jealous of her beauty could not ind any dislike when she saw Hua Xi Wan so. She felt some joy. “That’s good. But if your body is not up to it, do not force yourself.”

Hou shi heard this and looked in surprise at the Crown Princess. This did not seem like something the Crown Princess would say. She had inally managed to force out Hua Xi Wan’s promise, but then she actually moved a step back. When was the Crown Princess ever so easygoing?

However, Xian Junwang really had a good personality. He had married a junwang fei who did not manage other matters—there would be enough for him to agonize over in the future. Hou shi glanced at Yan Jin Qiu who had a smile at the corner of his lips. She felt scornful inside. Was he pretending to look deeply in love for Hua Xi Wan, or for the people of Yi’an Marquis Fu?

“Aijia is just an old woman and likes seeing you young girls sit together.” The Empress Dowager spoke. “Just how precious is all this beauty.” After she said this, she looked at Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan. She liked this little couple for no other reason than the Imperial House did not have any other couple that was better looking.

The Crown Prince heard this and took the chance to look at Hua Xi Wan. Then he said with a laugh, “Imperial Grandmother’s words are right.”

Yan Jin Qiu’s glance lew to the Crown Prince as he said with an insincere smile, “Your Highness Crown Prince has married such a virtuous wife, no wonder you agree with Imperial Grandmother’s words.”

Hua Xi Wan shot a look at him in irritation. “Junwang Ye, are you disdainful of qie?”

The Crown Prince saw Hua Xi Wan’s angry state and almost spoke for Yan Jin Qiu. But the beauty already had a husband, and he could only stare a few times.

“You naturally are the best in my heart.” With a warm smile, Yan Jin Qiu reached out to touch Hua Xi Wan’s palm in front of everyone.

The Crown Prince looked with admiration at Yan Jin Qiu. If this beauty was his woman, that would be wonderful. He wouldn’t bear for her to be slighted at all. He would give her anything she asked for, and even bear to give his heart.

The Crown Princess who was rinsing her mouth with tea saw the Crown Prince’s state. Her hand shook and the exquisite teacup fell to the ground, producing a crisp sound. It shocked the Crown Prince into taking back his impolite gaze.

“Grandson-wife has shocked Imperial Grandmother. Please, Imperial Grandmother, punish me.” The Crown Princess stood and curtsied to

the Empress Dowager.

“It is just a teacup, there is nothing to give punishment about.” The Empress Dowager had a servant change a cup for the Crown Princess and said with a smile to the Crown Prince and Yan Bo Yi, “You need to learn from Jin Qiu and love your wives more.”

“Bo Yi will follow Imperial Grandmother’s teachings.” Yan Bo Yi made a proper bow. He was respectful, but it was slightly bland andcourteous.

The Empress Dowager smiled and did not speak. She raised a teacup and said, “The day is not early, you young people have many matters. Return early.”

The juniors heard this and stood to bid farewell.

When they came out of Fu Kang Palace, the Crown Prince came over to Yan Jin Qiu’s side and said some meaningless things. Hower, Yan Jin Qiu blocked him off each time. So after a few tries, he inally gave up.

Yan Bo Yi watched coldly as Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes became hard, and moved his gaze aside. He disguised his dislike of the Crown Prince. Just because of his birth, such a ridiculous person had become the Crown Prince, someone above the millions and under just one person. If the world was given into the hand of such a person, what would the forefathers of the Yan Clan think?

After they walked apart from the Crown Prince, the smile on Yan Jin Qiu’s face disappeared. He reached out to touch the vermillion hairpin in Hua Xi Wan’s hair and suddenly smiled. “A precious treasure cannot be peeked at by others.”

Hua Xi Wan had a warm smile as though she did not know the deeper meaning in Yan Jin Qiu’s words.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

妃 fei: a higher-ranked imperial concubine 府 fu: compound or estate 贵妃 guifei: imperial concubine, the highest of the fei ranks

[1]

堂姐 tang jie: father’s brother’s (older) daughter 通房 tongfang: the lowest rank of concubine 郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady, referring to the legitimate wife ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

Chapter Thirty-Two

The third day after they returned from the palace, Hua Xi Wan heard an astonishing piece of news. Min Fei who had been pregnant had a miscarriage. The reason why she miscarried was that the Crown Prince had suddenly turned around a corner and collided with her belly. Min Fei‘s ankle twisted, and the child inside her belly was gone with the fall.

Because the Emperor did not have many children, he had been very happy when he heard Min Fei was pregnant, especially as he was having trouble dealing with the rumors about the Crown Prince. However, before he could be happy for a few days, someone told him that the child was gone—and the reason for that was also the Crown Prince who was the source of his headache.

After this stimulation, the Emperor was so angry he took away the Empress’ phoenix seal and had her undergo seclusion for a month. Then he called the Crown Prince over to scold him before having him beaten ten times. He also ordered the Crown Prince to stay in the Crown Prince Futo study with the Grand Tutor, and not appear in court or enter the palace.

In Hua Xi Wan’s view, if the Emperor didn’t have just the Crown Prince as his only son, the Crown Prince would have lost his seat a long time ago. It was a pity that the Emperor only had such a child as his son. No matter how angry he was, he could not take the title of Crown Prince away. But even so, the Emperor probably had less love towards the Crown Prince now.

Sometimes, love could not be tested over and over. Also, Qi Long Emperor was an emperor. Even if he had paternal love for the Crown Prince, it could not be as pure as in the families of the common folk.

The actions that Qilong Emperor committed in his anger were like a slap on the faces of the Empress and the Crown Prince. The Empress, the mother of the country, had her phoenix seal taken away and was forced to stay in her palace for a month. In the nobility circles of Jing, this almost became a joke. Not to mention that the Crown Prince, the future successor of the Great Zhao, was beaten. This was akin to putting the Crown Prince’s face onto the ground and stomping on it. Even if he succeeded the throne, this would be a black mark on his history.

It seemed that Qilong Emperor was very angry. Otherwise, he would not have made such a decision. Hua Xi Wan did not have any good feelings about the Crown Prince, so when she heard these rumors, she immediately had the Food Room add a few dishes for her to celebrate her good mood.

After the Empress and Crown Prince were slapped in the face, even Princess Rui He started to restrain herself. She, who usually liked to invite people to watch plays or admire lowers, stayed for a few days in her princess fu. The people who usually liked to latter and follow her became careful as well.

Several days later, maybe it was because Qilong Emperor’s anger had dissipated or because he realized that his actions were not correct, he bestowed many things to the Crown Prince who had been beaten, and returned the Empress’ phoenix seal. These actions were telling the

people of Jing that this matter has ended. The Empress was still the Empress, the Crown Prince was still the Crown Prince.

贵妃 guifei: imperial concubine, the highest of the fei ranks A few days later, Min Fei was promoted by the Emperor to guifei[1] and was given a lot of things by the Emperor. In this time, many people in Jing looked at her. However, Min Guifei did not become proud due to this and became even more low-key. Gradually, no one mentioned her anymore.

After hearing about Min Fei, Hua Xi Wan couldn’t help but sigh. It was not a fortunate matter to be a woman in the inner palace. She had inally managed to become pregnant and then had a miscarriage. For a woman of the inner palace, this was akin to lightning on a clear day. What was the use in giving Min Fei the position of guifei? Could that return her child to her?

Just as she was thinking about this, she saw Yan Jin Qiu walk in, his face full of smiles. She asked, “Jin Qiu, what good matter did you encounter?”

“I just obtained a book of a famed family. It is a rare and precious object, and naturally, I am happy.” Yan Jin Qiu took the tea that a servant girl presented. He took a sip and said, “I heard there is going to be a joyous event in Minister Hua’s Family?”

“Yes. My tangjie is going to marry the son of Minister Zhou soon.” Hua Xi Wan thought about how Zhou Yun Heng had gotten a tongfang pregnant just after he had gotten out of the mourning period and how he had caused many people to learn of the matter when he did not agree with his parents to abort the child. Even though that tongfang had been sent away, and the fetus aborted, in Hua Xi Wan’s view, this was not a good match.

Seeing that her expression was not quite right, Yan Jin Qiu asked, “Is something wrong?”

“It’s nothing. I just heard there are some matters in this Master Zhou’s rooms.” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “I am worried that Eldest Tangjie will not be well off if she married.”

“Parents are the ones to agree to the marriage. If there is something wrong with the marriage, her parents should have ended the engagement a long time ago. Since your Eldest Tangjie‘s family has not reacted to this yet, then it means they have decided to marry her into the Zhou Family. What is the use of your worry?” Yan Jin Qiu raised an eyebrow, saying, “Your Eldest Tangjie‘s maternal family is now one that has a marquis title. The Zhou Family will not dare to slight her.”

Yan Jin Qiu was not clear about the feelings between the sisters, so he did not say that with her as the junwang fei present, the Zhou Family would not dare to be outrageous. He reached out to pat the back of her hand. “Do not think too much, it will tire your mind.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and turned to chat about other matters. Yan Jin Qiu would not mention outside matters to Hua Xi Wan, and Hua Xi Wan was happy not to bother. After the two talked about a variety of topics, they talked their way onto the bed.

When Hua Xi Wan woke up, over half the afternoon had passed. She stood up from the bed and looked at the man sitting and reading. The remnants of sunlight spilled onto his hair and dyed them golden. Hua Xi Wan admired beauty, and she thought seriously, if this had been when she was eighteen in her last life, she would de initely fall in love with such a handsome, noble, warm, elegant, and romantic man. But after she entered the entertainment circle and clawed her way for her survival, she was used to what the rich men were like behind the scenes. So her attitude about tall, handsome and rich men was that they could be looked at, hugged, and played with, but she could not love them.

Life was so short and love was so ephemeral. She did not want the ephemeral love to take over her brief life. Women were always used to giving everything for love, even forgetting themselves. She probably just loved herself more, so love was not so important.

Yan Jin Qiu turned his head and saw Hua Xi Wan looking at him. He put down the book in his hand and said, “You are awake?”

“En.” Hua Xi Wan walked in front of the mirror and started to slowly comb her hair. Looking at her face that was slightly blurred in the mirror, she said, “Jin Qiu, your drawings outside cannot be bought with a thousand gold. I had not thought that you would be happy just because of obtaining a set of words and pictures.”

“It is worthwhile for me to admire and learn from the outstanding traits of those before me. The more precious something is, the more one likes it after they obtain it.” Yan Jin Qiu walked behind Hua Xi Wan and took the comb from her hand. He started to comb her hair for her. Because Hua Xi Wan’s hair was extremely smooth, the comb went down and easily reached the bottom.

“Xi Wan’s hair is really beautiful.” He chose a green jade hairpin from the box and lightly wound up her hair. He seemed to think that his work was not very good and adjusted it a few times. “Every time that I am in a bad mood, when I touch this hair, nothing is irritating.”

Was it really good to speak of having a hair fetish like this?

Hua Xi Wan felt that she couldn’t bear to look at her hair after Yan Jin Qiu worked on it, but in order to not impact his initiative and for her own sense of beauty, she decided to not look at herself in the mirror. In any case, if she didn’t see it, she wouldn’t be bothered. “Then Jin Qiu cannot make me angry in the future. I heard that if women are frequently angry, they will shed their hair.”

“How can I bear to?” Yan Jin Qiu picked another jade hairpin to secure the hair so the knot did not look so loose. “With you in this life, I have no unful illed desires.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and did not speak. The man behind her desired a lot. How could she compare to what he desired?

After the two intimately had a personal conversation, they ate a heartwarming meal and then fell asleep in each other’s arms.

On the second day of the eighth month, Hua Xi Wan had a rare instance of getting up early. After washing and dressing, she put on a light purple dress and sat on the carriage to travel to the fu of the Second Master Hua. Since today was the day of Hua Yi Liu’s marriage, no matter how she liked to have a lie-in, she would not do it today.

When she got to the assistant minister fu, many guests had arrived already. When Hua Xi Wan entered the fu, many womenfolk came over to greet her. Even Zhang Furen had come to voice her gratefulness because of Master Zhang’s case two months ago.

Probably because today was the day her granddaughter was getting married, Zhang Furen was wearing a dark red robe. However, her slightly thin face looked ashen.

“Everyone, quick, sit down. There is no need to be so courteous.” Hua Xi Wan held Zhang Furen‘s hand to sit and then said with a smile to the seated womenfolk, “Today is the good day of Eldest Tangjie, we do not need to heed these courtesies. Otherwise, Second Aunt will be unwilling to have me come in the future.”

Because Hua Xi Wan had come to give face to her daughter, the joy on Zhang shi‘s face could not be suppressed. “Junwang Fei is not right

about Second Aunt. If you are willing, it is ine for you to stay in Second Aunt’s fu. But I’m afraid that Junwang Ye will not be willing.”

The married womenfolk heard this and laughed in friendliness. The misses who had not married lowered their heads with embarrassed expressions to pretend not to understand these jokes.

Everyone in Jing knew how much Xian Junwang loved his junwang fei. Today, Hua Xi Wan had come to the minister’s fu in the junwang carriage and had the guards in the front opening the way. Behind her had been palace maids holding mirrors and stoves. It could be seen that Junwang Yedid not want her to be in any discomfort or slighted at all.

Men were afraid of going into the wrong profession, women were afraid of marrying the wrong man. The third miss of the Hua Family had married Xian Junwang and received such love from Xian Junwang. This must be good fortune cultivated from a few lifetimes.

Some people were admiring, so there were naturally those who were jealous. There were girls present in the hall who were in love with Xian Junwang. Seeing Hua Xi Wan come out so grandly today, they felt extremely jealous. They wanted to have Hua Xi Wan to also feel some of what they felt, but due to their unmarried status, they could not speak up.

“I heard long ago that Xian Junwang Fei is beautiful. This old one has never had the good fortune to see. Seeing you today, this one has learned the rumors are true.” An old woman said with a smile, “To say

something that is out of bounds, this old woman has lived for more than sixty years and never seen a woman more outstanding than Junwang Fei.”

Hua Xi Wan had a faint smile as she said, “Lu Furen, I almost do not have the face to see people after you say this. I have seen many goodlooking girls in the room. Even I am delighted when I see them.”

Some of the smarter womenfolk were surprised when they heard this. This junwang fei almost never appeared in a gathering of this many people in the past, but she could so easily recognize this person. What mind did she have?

No wonder she could bewitch Xian Junwang. Which man the world could resist such beauty and wiles?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound 太太 taitai: married woman, madam 郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang ⼤嫂 dasao: eldest brother’s wife 弟妹 dimei: younger brother’s wife 通房 tongfang: the lowest rank of concubine 堂姐 tangjie: father’s brother’s (older) daughter 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince

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Chapter Thirty-Three: Lu shi‘s Anger

As they smiled and conversed, they heard a servant of the minister fu say that the son-in-law had arrived . Hua Xi Wan saw the old taitai already standing up from her seat and went forward with a smile to support the old taitai. “Grandmother, be careful. Granddaughter will help you over to watch.”

“Good, good.” The old taitai saw her junwang fei granddaughter support her, and the smile on her face grew. Even her steps became much steadier. The womenfolk around them came forward to praise Hua Xi Wan for being ilial and caused the old taitai to break out into a big smile.

Yao shi and Lu shi followed behind the old taitai. Hearing the praise in the surroundings, Yao shi looked with slight jealousy at her dasao beside her. Now that Third Niece had become a junwang fei, the womenfolk in Jing started to latter and respect Dasao as though the air Hua Xi Wan exhaled was some heavenly elixir.

Now she was just giving a hand to help the old taitai, yet it seemed as though she had done a great matter. She blushed on behalf of those people.

“Dimei, careful with your steps.” Lu shi reached out to touch Yao shi with an insincere smile. She caused Yao shi to refocus and force out a bit of a smile. “Dasao, you irst.”

Lu shi glanced at her and then walked in front of her.

Yao shi, who had thought the other would be courteous, was so angry she almost broke her teeth in anger.

When the procession entered the inner yard, they saw Zhou Yun Heng was inviting Hua Yi Liu to come out of the room. They all stopped in their steps and examined Zhou Yun Heng from the side.

To be fair, Zhou Yun Heng’s appearance was still very good. The bright red groom attire caused his lips to look red and his teeth white. However, Hua Xi Wan could see the lightness in his brows—this was not a man who would be satis ied to live peaceful days. Men liked beauty and were greedy for it, but as long as they did not create big problems, in the eyes of many people, they would be called a romantic. It was just a pity for those women who married this kind of men.

“Oh.” The old taitai had lived for decades and could see that Zhou Yun Heng was not a good match. But because of her identity, and because the engagement between the Hua Family and the Zhou Family had been con irmed, she really could not speak more about it.

She might not like Hua Yi Liu’s personality, but that was still a grandchild of the Hua Family. Was she willing for people from the Hua family to marry out and be slighted in other families?

Hua Xi Wan heard this sigh, and her opinion of the old taitai increased. This one would occasionally do some muddle-minded things, but she did not have a bad heart.

Yao shi and Lu shi also heard the sigh, but no one spoke.

After Zhou Yun Heng made the invitation three times, the door was opened. Hua Yi Liu was carried out by her younger brother, Hua Cun Lu. Zhang shi was wiping her tears as she stood behind the door, her eyes full of yearning.

Hua Xi Wan saw Zhang shi‘s state, and for some reason, her gaze landed on Hua Cun Lu who was carrying Hua Yi Liu out of the door on his back. She had heard that the Emperor had recently intended to promote the Old Master of the Zhou Family as Minister and was preparing for him to be the main examiner of the Spring Examination next year.

Zhang shi could tolerate Zhou Yun Heng having something with a tongfang before marriage and could marry Hua Yi Liu to the Zhou Family—this was most likely to prepare the road for Hua Cun Lu. Maybe in Zhang shi‘s eyes, the son was the most important. As to her daughter’s happiness, in front of her son’s scholarly title, it was not worth anything.

Otherwise, how many mothers would be willing to marry their daughters to such a man? It wasn’t as though they were in desperate straits. Why did they have to be humiliated so?

Hua Xi Wan wondered, what did Second Uncle think about this matter? Did he give his silent permission or had he surrendered due to other matters?

The crackling of the ireworks caused Hua Xi Wan’s ears to ring. She went back with the other womenfolk to the guest hall, and after a while, she saw Zhang shi come back with red eyes.

The guests gave a few words of praise about Zhou Yun Heng and caused her to show a slight smile. “As my daughter has married, I feel like I am missing something in my heart.”

“It is always so. Before marriage, a daughter is the pearl in all families. Now that they have married into another family, it depends on whether the husband takes care of her. Otherwise, it would be a hard life.”

Hearing these words, Zhang shi‘s expression became slightly uncertain. But that was just for a second. She quickly said as though to comfort herself, “The Zhou Family is a famed literary family, and the most reasonable. My daughter will not be slighted marrying in.”

The other womenfolk smiled and agreed when they heard this, as though none of them knew about the matter of Master Zhang getting

his tongfang pregnant right out of the mourning period. They turned to praise the Zhou Family’s conduct.

Yao shi twisted her mouth in disdain. Her second sister-in-law came from the Zhang Family, but she really did not do this well. She watched as her daughter married such a man and had the face to say that he was a good match. She wanted to get all of the bene its.

She thought of herself as a common person, but she would not bear to marry her daughter to a man like that. Her son and daughter were her heart, and she could not do anything like sacri icing one in order to supplement the other. The woman was like this and wasn’t embarrassed to say that she was born in a famous family. Pssht!

The old taotai saw the disdain in Yao shi‘s face was too evident and pulled her. “How come Second Miss did not come today?”

“Second Girl’s body doesn’t feel comfortable. Today is the great day of joy for Eldest Miss, so I had her rest in the fu.” Yao shi also realized that there were many guests present now and she could not show her emotions. She smiled and said, “When Eldest Miss returns, I will have her accompany Eldest Miss and have a good chat.”

There were rules about the marriage. If an unmarried girl was having her monthly cycle, she could not attend another person’s wedding. That would cause the wedding to become unauspicious. When Yao shi said this, as the guests present were womenfolk, they naturally understood what Yao shi was saying. The guests all felt that the second miss of the

Hua Family was really a good and understanding person. She had not added bad fortune to her tangjie‘s wedding just because she wanted to see the spectacle, even though the man that this Eldest Miss Hua married was not really a good one.

Hua Xi Wan suddenly felt tired of all this. She walked next to Lu shi to sit. She picked up a teacup and slowly started to drink, too lazy to talk with people like Zhang shi.

“If we have to say who married well, I still feel that Third Miss married the best,” Yao shi suddenly said. “Xian Junwang is more outstanding in beauty, talent, and status than Master Zhou. He is also a considerate person. Doesn’t everyone think so?”

Yao shi‘s words were praising Xian Junwang on the surface but were actually slapping Zhang shi‘s face. There was also some intention of worsening the relationship. When her words came out, this could be seen from Zhang shi‘s expression. Anyone who heard that their son-inlaw couldn’t compare to the son-in-law of other people would not be happy. Also, Hua Xi Wan and Hua Yi Liu were cousins, and people would compare them.

The womenfolk stared at each other. No one had expected Yao shi to say the words so crudely and blankly. How could they answer? If they said yes, that was clearly slapping Zhang shi in the face. If they said no, that was offending Xian Junwang Fei.

The con lict between the sisters-in-law of the Hua Family was a matter of the Hua Family. They did not want to be pulled in.

“I think both sons-in-law are good; they are all gentle and considerate people.” The old taitai looked at Yao shi with a smile and said loudly, “Today is the day of joy for our family’s eldest miss. The fu has already prepared some small amount of wine. Everyone, please do not disdain the simple food and drink.”

The old taitai spoke as the eldest person of the Hua Family, so everyone naturally gave her face. They quickly changed the topic and then sat down in their seats according to status to wait for the Hua Family to start the banquet.

After sitting for a short while after the banquet ended, Hua Xi Wan found an excuse to stand up and leave. She was too lazy to stay a moment longer in this minister fu. Also, she did not want to see Zhang shi‘s acting.

The more she sat here, the more she felt that Zhang shi was an even more horrid person than Yao shi.

Lu shi did not speak much, and only warned her to take care of her body before sending her off outside the second door. Seeing her enter the sedan, Lu shi watched as the sedan moved away before she walked back into the inner compound.

At this time, there were no guests left in the inner compound. Zhang shi and Yao shi were ighting over Yao shi‘s previous words. When Lu shiwalked into the room, she heard Zhang shi say, “So what if he is a junwang ye—he isn’t an imperial son. Right now, Hua Xi Wan is only being favored because of her beauty. After a few more years pass, what do you think will happen?”

Hearing Zhang shi curse her daughter like this, Lu shi instantly smashed a porcelain vase by her hand and then she pointed at Zhang shi, angrily saying, “Zhang shi, if you have the guts, say that again!”

Zhang shi looked at the shattered lower vase on the ground and saw her dasao’s furious face. She forced herself to say, “What did I say that is incorrect?”

“Ha.” Lu shi smiled in anger and then said scornfully, “At least, my sonin-law is an imperial relative at worst. I’m not like some other people, still willing to marry my daughter over even if the son-in-law got a tongfang pregnant. I cannot do this. You dare to lecture me, why don’t you take a look in the mirror? Look and see if you are a demon or a ghost. Don’t come out and disgust people.”

Lu shi‘s words were both crude and fast. She infuriated Zhang shi to the point where she couldn’t breathe. However, what Lu shi said did happen. Even if she wanted to argue, she could not ind a reason.

Lu shi did not care how angry she got. She said carelessly, “I’m a rough person and cannot copy the conduct of those famous families, and

cannot do something like sell my daughter for other things. My two sons are not very good, but we still remember to teach them to work hard for themselves, to not think that because their sister has married, they now have support. There is no free lunch in the world—don’t think others are stupid!”

Seeing the Primary Branch and Second Branch ighting like this, Yao shi was happy to watch, but she felt fear about Lu shi. If Yao shi made this one unhappy, the other could directly pull down her face and stomp on her. It was better to not provoke the other in the future.

“Since Second Dimei cannot tolerate common people like me in this place, then I will bid farewell,” Lu shi said after a bout of cursing. She looked coldly at Zhang shi whose face was white in anger. Turning, she led a group of servant girls and servant women to leave the minister fu.

Others might say she was a vicious wife, or that she was crude. But she could not copy what Zhang shi would do. No one could bully her children!

“Snort.” Yao shi laughed strangely. “You aren’t ashamed to compare that thing to Xian Junwang—you have such a thick face.” Finishing, she helped the old taitai out of the door, leaving behind a lushed Zhang shi to throw things inside the room to vent her fury.

After this ight, she felt that she liked Dasao more. A person who liked to pretend like Zhang shi should be treated so.

In the carriage of Xian Junwang Fu, Hua Xi Wan thought about Zhang shi and Yao shi‘s usual conduct. Zhang shi was more proud, and Yao shiliked to compare to others and take any bene it she could. In their attitude towards their daughters, Yao shi was much better than Zhang shi. Hua Xi Wandid not like people who acted like Zhang shi, even though the phenomenon of sacri icing the daughter to support the child existed in some prestigious families.

At this time, she heard shouts of alarm come from outside. The carriage she was sitting in shook violently. She was unable to hold on and her head hit the wall of the carriage.

“Junwang Fei!” After the carriage shook a few more times, it inally stopped. Bai Xia and Hong Ying charged into the carriage and helped her sit up. “Junwang Fei, are you all right?”

When Hua Xi Wan raised her head, they paled in fright. There was blood coming out of the corner of Hua Xi Wan’s temple. It seemed that her wound was not light.

“Someone, come quick, invite a Grand Doctor to the junwang fu.” Bai Xia took out a clean cotton handkerchief to cover Hua Xi Wan’s wound. “Return to the fu as soon as possible. Junwang Fei is wounded.”

Hua Xi Wan saw Bai Xia’s fear and waved her hand. She said, “Do not worry, it just appears frightening. What happened outside?”

Bai Xia’s face was slightly ugly. “The Imperial Brother-in-law alarmed a horse which crashed into many stalls. Right now, the Imperial Guards have controlled the horse.”

“Doesn’t the city have rules that, other than in special circumstances, the horses cannot be free?” There were many people in Jing, and so even though some noble sons liked to ride, they would go out into the suburbs. If they rode horses in the city, there had to be a guard holding the reins. What happened with this Imperial Brother-in-law?”

“Don’t know. I heard it was because Imperial Brother-in-law was betting with someone that his riding was so skilled, even if he rode inside the city, nothing would happen.” When Bai Xia said this, her teeth started to grind. “There are even children wounded outside.”

“This one is Guard Of ice Junior Of icial Zhang Hou, coming to ask for forgiveness from Xian Junwang Fei. This one was not good at maintaining order and alarmed Junwang Fei!”

A male voice came from outside the carriage. Hua Xi Wan did not speak.

Hong Ying walked out of the carriage and curtsied to this person. “This matter is de initely an accident. Of icial, please do not take it very seriously. However, our junwang fei has been wounded on the head and needs to return to the fu to be seen by a doctor. Of icial, please spend more effort here.” Finishing, she took out a pouch and presented it to this person. “Junwang Fei heard there is a wounded child on the road and especially ordered this servant to give this for the medical fees of

the child. Of icial, please take care of this matter.” Finishing, she curtsied again.

“Miss is too polite. Junwang Fei is benevolent, and the family of the child will de initely thank you.” Zhang Hou was a fourth-grade Guard Of ice junior of icial. In Jing, he was someone who had some reputation. This time, the Imperial Brother-in-law had caused an accident and also wounded Xian Junwang Fei. He had thought that Xian Junwang Fu would not give him face due to their high status. Who knew that Xian Junwang Fei was such a generous person. He put the pouch away and then bowed towards the carriage. “This one bids farewell and hopes that Junwang Fei will recover as soon as possible.”

At this time, he heard a female voice come from the carriage. The volume was not loud but he could clearly hear it.

“Many thanks, Of icial Zhang.”

“This of icial doesn’t dare to accept.” He retreated a few steps and watched the carriage of Xian Junwang Fu move away. He then looked down at the pouch in his hand and smiled.

The Imperial Brother-in-law lost control of his horse and alarmed the carriage procession of Xian Junwang Fei, causing Xian Junwang Fei to be wounded. In the next few days, Jing would be busy.

It was a pity that he, and the rest of the Guard Of ice, would be dragged down by the actions of the Imperial Brother-in-law.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Thirty-Four: The Fang Family

Speaking of this Imperial Brother-in-Law, he really could not be considered a capable person in Jing. However, he was proud based on the fact that his elder sister was the Empress and his nephew was the Crown Prince. However, while he was a proud person, when he heard that his horse had disturbed Xian Junwang Fei‘s carriage and heard that Xian Junwang Fei was wounded, he knew he had caused trouble.

What to do when he was in trouble? Naturally it was to have his old mother send in a card to the palace to meet the Empress. She had to think of a way to smooth this affair over. Otherwise, when the matter became known, it would not be so easy to deal with.

When the Empress heard that her paternal family was requesting to meet her, she felt slightly strange. They had just met two days ago— why were they sending in a card to see her now? She was curious and invited the people from her paternal family in.

The Empress’ paternal family was the Fang Family. It was not a very prestigious family in Jing, but it gradually stood out after she entered the Eastern Palace as the Crown Princess. However, in front of the old families, they still lacked the foundations.

After meeting with the people of her paternal family, the Empress detected that her mother and her sister-in-law’s expressions were slightly uncomfortable, as though they had something that was hard to say. She knew that it was de initely her younger brother who had made

trouble. She took a sip of tea and said, “Has something happened in the family?”

Fang Taitai looked at her grandly dressed daughter and managed to narrate what had happened on the street. She also emphasized that Xian Junwang Fei had been wounded on the forehead.

When the Empress thought about Xian Junwang Fei‘s beautiful face and how much Xian Junwang favored her, she felt troubled. “Why was Younger Brother letting the horse free in the city? The old ancestors had given the order long ago that horses could not be let free inside the city. Why did you allow him to do such a bad thing?” She looked in blame at her dimei, Lin shi, and her words seemed to criticize Lin shi for not controlling her younger brother well.

Lin shi felt uncomfortable at being stared at by the Empress. However, the other had a noble status and she could not do any disrespectful actions. Husband didn’t even listen to her mother-in-law, how could he listen to her urgings? Even if the Empress blamed her, she could not do a thing.

“Now that the matter is like this, Empress niangniang, please think of a way to help your younger brother.” Fang Taitai wiped her tears and said, “I only have you two children. Right now, your brother is the one holding up the fu. If something happens to him, what will our Fang Family do? Your two nephews are still young.”

The Empress sighed helplessly. The matter was not that Xian Junwang Fei‘s forehead had been wounded but that her younger brother had let a horse go free in Jing and injured a member of the Imperial Family. This matter was not a major matter, but it was not a minor one. Xian Junwang Fu had great prestige in recent years, and Yi’an Marquis Fu was a prestigious family that had been passed on for several generations. If this matter was investigated to the bottom, the Fang Family would not come out well.

“Right now, what is most important is how Xian Junwang Fei‘s injuries are. If they are minor, it will be all right; if they are serious…” The Empress waved her hand and said tiredly, “Go back and prepare gifts to send to the Xian Junwang Fu. As to what will come next, it will depend on the attitudes of the Emperor and Xian Junwang.”

Fang Taitai saw her daughter’s tone had softened and knew that she would help. She said with a smile, “You are the Empress. Xian Junwang Fuwould not make this matter a public one based on your face.”

That is because you have not seen how Xian Junwang treasures his junwang fei. The Empress wanted to say this, but when she looked at her smiling mother, she was so tired that she did not want to say a word. In the end, she waved her hand and said, “Then you prepare to return. I am tired.” In her childhood, her father favored the concubines. In order to protect her and her younger brother, her mother had spent great effort. Right now, while she still remembered the feelings of the past, these feelings were slowly worn away by this paternal family that did not bring pride.

“Niangniang.” The palace maid saw her expression was tired and presented a cup of ginseng tea. Someone else came up to gently massage her temples.

“Have people prepare things that replenish energies and blood and have Zhao Dong personally got to Xian Junwang Fu.” Zhao Dong was the chief taijian steward of her palace. For him to go in person to give the gifts would show her attitude.

The palace servants heard this, they went down to prepare according to the Empress’ orders. However, when they thought of Xian Junwang Fei‘s beautiful face, they felt it would be such a pity if her face was really dis igured.

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At this time, Xian Junwang Fu was in a furor. It was a major matter when the mistress of the household was injured on the head. So there were people who started to boil water, make medicine and go tell Junwang Ye. Fortunately, as the etiquette of Xian Junwang Fu was pretty good, the servants were busy but they were not panicked.

When Yan Jin Qiu hurried in from the outside, two Grand Doctors were already in the fu. When he walked into the inner compound, he saw the Grand Doctor was taking Hua Xi Wan’s pulse. The blood at her temple had been wiped clean, but a large area of her forehead was swollen and horrifying to see.

Yan Jin Qiu’s brow creased. He walked next to Hua Xi Wan, put an arm on her shoulder and asked, “Does the wound still hurt?”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and said, “It’s all right. The Grand Doctor has already put medicine on it, it just looks scary.”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu could not say anything else. But his face as he stared at the shockingly swollen skin became dark. In the end, he said coldly to the people who served Hua Xi Wan, “What were you doing that your mistress is so heavily injured?”

The servants instantly knelt down in the room. They were frightened by Junwang Ye‘s words so much they did not dare to breathe.

“You cannot blame them. The horse was suddenly startled, so the carriage was not steady.” Hua Xi Wan reached a hand to pull Yan Jin Qiu’s sleeve. “Do not be angry—if you are angry, my head will hurt along with it.”

Yan Jin Qiu wanted to laugh at her words but felt helpless. Seeing such a swollen part on her forehead, his heart softened. “All right, since Junwang Fei cares for you, you can stand up.”

“Thanking Junwang Ye, thanking Junwang Fei.” The servants sighed in relief and stood up from the ground. Their movements became even more careful. They wanted the Grand Doctors to give miraculous medicine so that Junwang Fei could instantly heal.

After the Grand Doctor inished taking the pulse, he stood and bowed towards Yan Jin Qiu. “Junwang Ye, Junwang Fei‘s wounds are not light. She will need to eat less of spicy food in the next while, and need to notice if she has any drowsiness or nausea. This lowly of icial has prescribed a medicine to calm the mind and replenish blood. Please have the servants of the fu prepare the medicine according to this prescription and use three bowls of water to boil one bowl. After drinking this, if there are no symptoms, then drink two more bowls.”

“Thank you for your trouble.” Yan Jin Qiu handed the paper to Mu Tong behind him and then inquired, “If she is drowsy or throws up, what serious effects are there?”

“The head of a person is the most complex part. This lowly of icial does not dare to speak rashly, but based on Junwang Fei‘s complexion seen here, there should not be any serious consequences. But it is best to have bed rest for a few days, and avoid any movement.” The Grand Doctor saw Xian Junwang was extremely interested in Junwang Fei‘s wounds, so he spoke of some more things to pay attention to before he left the Junwang Fu with his Grand Hospital’s apprentice.

After the Grand Doctor left, Yan Jin Qiu had a servant get water to wash Hua Xi Wan’s hands and feet. Then he got the person to lie down on the bed. Looking at her slightly pale face, he said, “I heard about the course of events from the servants. Rest your mind and recover, I will be there for anything outside.”

Did his words mean he was planning on settling debts with the Empress’ younger brother?

Seeing that his expression did not seem like he was only saying this, Hua Xi Wan leaned back against the bed. “These are just surface wounds. The Grand Doctor said this wound will not leave a scar. It is just a pity that the traders on the two sides of the street had a lot of their merchandise ruined. I wonder if the people from the Guard Of ice have made reparations.”

“They will de initely take care of this matter.” Yan Jin Qiu did not tell Hua Xi Wan that he even knew she had a servant give the young of icial of the Guard Of ice a pouch for him to give to a wounded child. He helped her adjust the blanket and said in a gentle voice, “Rest now. I will have the kitchen prepare food to help you replenish blood and focus your mind.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and then truly closed her eyes to sleep. Staying at the minister’s fu and talking for so long with the womenfolk had been really tiring.

After Hua Xi Wan fell into a deep sleep, Yan Jin Qiu ordered Bai Xia and the others to take good care of her before he stood and walked out of the room. Just as he got out, he heard Mu Tong report that Imperial Brother-in-Law Fang had come with gifts to ask for forgiveness.

Yan Jin Qiu smiled coldly. He did not say anything, but viciousness rose inside. A moment later, he said, “Lead the way.”

Mu Tong’s heart shook. He ushered Yan Jin Qiu to the main hall and then stood in the corner.

When Fang Cheng De saw Yan Jin Qiu appear, he stood up from the chair and raised his folded hands in a greeting to Yan Jin Qiu with a chuckle. “Xian Junwang, this one accidentally disturbed Junwang Fei‘s carriage today, and has come to ask for forgiveness from you and Junwang Fei.”

“Imperial Brother-in-Law is too polite.” Yan Jin Qiu raised a teacup and slowly took a sip. He blew the steam rising from the surface and then glanced at Fang Cheng De. “It is that wife is unlucky and chose the street that Imperial Brother-in-Law’s horse raced along.”

Hearing that the words were not correct in tone, the smile on Fang Cheng De’s face froze. He was slightly angered inside, but since Yan Jin Qiu’s gaze did not contain any mirth, for some reason, his heart felt timid. He did not dare to show his anger. “This matter is truly an accident. How are Junwang Fei‘s wounds?”

“Even though half a bowl of blood was spilled, she managed to keep her life.” Yan Jin Qiu put the teacup on the table and said to Fang Cheng De with cold eyes, “This one is worried for Wife and will leave irst. Imperial Brother-in-Law, stay at your leisure.”

Seeing Yan Jin Qiu not giving him face, Fang Cheng De’s expression changed again and again. In the end, he did not vent his temper in the junwang fu. When he was “ushered” out of the junwang fu by the

j g j g y servants of the fu, he was so angry he kicked the stone lion at the gate. Seeing the guards at the gate of Xian Junwang Fu look at him, he immediately said in anger, “What are you looking at, you dog!”

After cursing, Fang Cheng De felt much better. He turned and got onto the carriage, deciding that he would never come to this stupid place again.

The guards at the gate of Xian Junwang Fu looked coldly at Fang Cheng De acting like that and stood up straight, completely unaffected by his previous actions.

Mu Tong spat from where he stood at the gates. He said to the gatekeeper, “Watch the gate carefully, don’t let animals sneak in. If it alarms Junwang Ye and Junwang Fei, be careful of a beating.”

This was just the younger brother of the Empress, and he really thought he was someone. This was very humorous.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 亲王 qinwang: irst-rank prince 郡王 junwang: prince (of the second rank); also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 公公 gonggong: how to refer to a taijian 娘娘 niangniang: respectful title for an Emperor’s wife and concubines 朕 zhen: illeism used by the Emperor; equivalent to the royal “we” 妾 qie: I, your servant (deprecatory self-reference used by a wife or concubine)

##

Chapter Thirty-Five: Hardship

Hua Xi Wan knew that she had just lightly hit her head. Even though there was some blood, it was not as serious as the rumors outside said it to be. She did not know if the rumors had been exaggerated as they passed between people, or if Yan Jin Qiu had intended for this kind of rumor to pass around, so she cooperated with him and rested on the bed. When she became bored, she had the singers in the fu sing for her. When she was irritated, she had the vaudeville people amuse her. She tried to do all she could to make her days on the bed even more comfortable.

“Junwang Fei, a nurse has come to change your bandage.” Bai Xia walked in from outside. She helped Hua Xi Wan sit up and then put a soft pillow behind her back.

Hua Xi Wan had the performers retreat. “Please invite her in.”

The nurse waited for the servant girls in the room to lift up the curtain before she walked in. She was directly responsible for outer injuries. Even though she had spent some years in the Grand Hospital, she had never come to Xian Junwang Fu before. Seeing the different sceneries and drawings in Xian Junwang Fu every couple of steps, she inally believed what the generation before her said: the previous emperor had really favored the original Xian Qinwang.

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Xian Junwang Fei‘s room was decorated elegantly, but it would not cause people to feel that it lost the heavy reputation of a prestigious family. It could be seen that the person who had decorated the room had put in great effort and thoughtfulness and even greater attention towards the owner of the rooms.

“This one greets Xian Junwang Fei.” The nurse saw a beauty in plain clothing lying on the bed and knew that this was Xian Junwang Fei who was deeply loved by Xian Junwang. She went forward and curtsied. “This one has come under the orders of the Dean to change the bandages for Xian Junwang Fei.”

“Sorry for the trouble, Of icial.” The voice of the person lying on the bed was very soft and had a slightly bewitching tone. Even as a female, the nurse felt as though her heart was tingling. She couldn’t help but take a few more glances at the person on the bed. She was a nurse of the Grand Hospital, but she had an eighth rank position. Many prestigious families looked down on women in medicine, and there was always disdain in their conduct and speech. There were really not many who were sincerely polite like Xian Junwang Fei.

“Xian Junwang Fei, please do not move. It might be slightly pain l in the beginning..” The nurse went forward and slowly took off the gauze that had been put on before. Seeing that the wound had not become swollen or illed with pus, she sighed in relief. She used a cotton swab to irst clean off the dressing around the wound and said in a light voice, “Junwang Fei, your wound is recovering well. Please pay attention to having the room properly aired. Do not get sti led or overheatedt, and your wound cannot get wet”

When she was washing the wound, the nurse became even more careful. However, she knew that no matter how careful she was, it would still be painful. Fortunately, Junwang Fei did not punish her for this, and did not even make a sound. After the dressing was changed, the nurse released a breath. “Junwang Fei, the dressing has been completed.”

Hua Xi Wan gave her thanks again and had Bai Xia personally see the nurse out the door. The status of the nurses was not as high as that of the males in the Grand Hospital. Also, many people felt that a woman’s skills in medicine could not compare to a man’s, so the trust in females in medicine was not very high. Even some of the females in the prestigious families had similar viewpoints.

But in Hua Xi Wan’ view, that nurse had been very practiced when she had been changing the dressing, and extremely open and honest in her conduct. They were all women, and she was willing to give honor to the other.

Bai Xia personally saw the nurse out of the gates, and then the carriage from Xian Junwang Fu delivered her back to the Grand Hospital. It caused many of her fellows to admire her for receiving the favor of Xian Junwang Fei.

Not long after the nurse left, the Empress bestowed gifts down. The taijian who came to announce the decree was the chief steward of the Empress’ palace. He was very polite to Yan Jin Qiu, and his attitude was placed very low.

“How are Junwang Fei‘s wounds? The Empress is very concerned about Junwang Fei and has sent this small one to inquire.” Zhao Dong saw that it was hard to detect joy and anger on Xian Junwang‘s face and knew that this matter would most likely not be resolved. “The Empress has not been able to eat ever since she heard that Junwang Fei was wounded. If it were not that she cannot leave the palace at will, she would have personally come to visit Junwang Fei.”

“Wife cannot accept such concern from the Empress.” Yan Jin Qiu inally showed a smile, but this smile was slightly cold. “Wife has good luck. Even though her head was injured, fortunately, it is not a major matter.”

Hearing this, Zhao Dong instantly gave a smile and said, “Junwang Fei is someone with good fortune. The Heavens protect her, protect her.”

Yan Jin Qiu’s inger rubbed the teacup as he said sardonically, “Isn’t it really protection from the Heavens?” He slowly took a drink. “Please, gonggong, report to Empress. Wife’s wounds have not healed, and she cannot personally kneel to pay thanks for the phoenix grace. Empress, please have some tolerance.”

“This one doesn’t dare, doesn’t dare, this small one will de initely bring the words.” Zhao Dong laughed dryly and bowed. He felt that he really could not stay here. Xian Junwang‘s presence was too much right now. He was the chief steward of the Empress’ palace, but in front of this person, he really was not a signi icant person.

After Zhao Dong left with some junior taijian, Yan Jin Qiu raised an eyebrow and beckoned Mu Tong over. He said, “Give the list of the gifts to Junwang Fei to read, but do not deliver the things over to Junwang Fei. If Junwang Fei lacks for anything, take it from my stores. These things…” His gaze swept across the Empress’ gifts. “Find a storeroom to hold them.”

“Yes.” Mu Tong glanced at the gifts that had been bestowed down. They were very good, but the Empress’ paternal family did not do good in their actions. Even more of these things could not make up for Junwang Fei‘s wound. No wonder Junwang Ye could not bear to look at Imperial Brother-in-law’s attitude.

The intelligence of several generations of the Fang Family was passed onto the Empress, and the remaining members were those who could not be seen in public. No wonder the Crown Prince was the way he was. It seemed he followed the majority of the Fang Family.

Mu Tong quickly presented the list to Hua Xi Wan. Hua Xi Wan swept a glance and then put the list to the side. “Many thanks to the Empress for her phoenix grace.”

Mu Tong bowed his head and did not speak.

“Junwang Ye has been accompanying me these two days—has it delayed the matters on the outside?” Hua Xi Wan was drinking her medicine. After the servant girls served her in rinsing her mouth, she wiped her mouth and said, “Go tell Junwang Ye that I am not in any

great suffering. He should not delay.” She did not want to have Yan Jin Qiu in the future mutter, “If it wasn’t for you _____, I would have ____.” She was worried that at that time, she would slap that person’s face with a shoe.

“Please, Junwang Fei, rest.” Mu Tong did not respond if there were matters on the outside and only said, “Junwang Ye is very worried about your wound. As long as you are well, nothing will happen to Junwang Ye.”

No wonder Yan Jin Qiu liked to use servants such as Mu Tong. He was very good verbally. She smiled. “All right, you only help your master say good things to comfort me. The weather these two days is suffocating. You and the servants need to make sure that Junwang Ye does not get overheated.”

“This small one will remember.” When Mu Tong left the main yard, he inally released a breath. For some reason, while Junwang Fei‘s personally was clearly very gentle, he did not dare to be disrespectful at all.

Maybe it was… that the spectacle of Junwang Fei kicking a chair lying and breaking off a piece of the fake mountain was too stunning. So he could not help but submit from the bottom of his heart?

Mu Tong inally understood the true core of the saying, “Might is Right.” This was worthy of celebration.

##

Soon after Zhao Dong returned to the palace, he heard the Empress was summoning him. He did not dare to hesitate, and hurriedly went to see the Empress.

“How are Junwang Fei‘s wounds?” The Empress’ expression was unchanged, but Zhao Dong could feel the importance the Empress placed on this matter, so he narrated in detail.

“When this small one came to Xian Junwang Fu, this small one coincidentally saw the nurse from the Grand Hospital come out from changing Junwang Fei‘s dressing. This small one pretended to inadvertently, and she said that the wound is not light.” Zhao Dong felt that these words were really lacking in detail, so he could only recite what was originally said. “After this small one entered the fu, this small one did not see Junwang Feiwho was said to be resting in the rooms. Xian Junwang was in the fu, and this small one observed that his expression was melancholic, so this one did not dare to stay for long before leaving.” He recited to the Empress his conversation with Xian Junwang. In the end, even he felt that Xian Junwang Fei had a serious wound this time.

After the Empress heard his report, her brow creased slightly. Then she sighed and said, “Has any news come from the court?”

“This small one only heard that people have accused the Imperial Brother-in-law in court of freeing his horse and wounding people.

However, His Majesty has not yet decided the matter.”

The Empress’ expression became even more ugly. The Emperor had already been dissatis ied with her due to the matter of the Crown Prince before this. Now her paternal family was not one that brought honor, and caused such a matter. What could she use to beg for the Emperor to show mercy?

Zhao Dong saw the Empress stop speaking and stood obediently.

“You may leave.” The Empress sighed and waved her hand for Zhao Dong to retreat. She felt she was full of worry. Her son was not one who brought honor for her, her paternal family was not one that brought honor for her. If it wasn’t that the Emperor only had one son, the Crown Prince, she probably would have lost her position in the palace a long time ago.

“Empress niangniang, the Emperor has come.” A palace maid hurriedly came in to report. Before the Empress could react, she saw Qi Long Emperor stride in.

“All of you, go out.” The Emperor’s expression was not right, but he also knew he could not vent in front of the Empress’ servants. After all the people had left, the Emperor scolded angrily, “Look and see what your family has done. Now many prestigious families in Jing are reporting that your paternal family is out-of-bounds in their conduct. How can zhen help you conceal this?”

“Emperor, it is qie who has no ability to restrain the paternal family.” The Empress knew that it was not the time to argue with the Emperor, so she irst showed weakness. “Right now, qie is also very worried about Xian Junwang Fei…”

“You think he only wounded Xian Junwang Fei?” Qi Long Emperor said coldly, “How many people in Jing are observing how your family acts and conducts itself? If you do not think for yourself, at least think for the Crown Prince. Do you want the whole world to know the Crown Prince has such a maternal family?”

The Crown Prince’s reputation was already bad. If the Fang Family did something, it would make it worse and unable to recover from.

When the Empress heard this, her expression stilled and she was unable to speak. Should she blame her paternal family for not thinking about her, or blame her son for not being good enough? Or blame herself for not teaching the Crown Prince well and not controlling her paternal family?

A long time later, the Empress made a deep curtsey towards the Emperor. “Qie knows her mistakes, and only requests the Emperor to expend some effort to stop the matter of the paternal family from affecting the Crown Prince.”

Qi Long Emperor snorted, threw out his sleeve and left. His heart cooled even more towards the Empress.

The Empress looked at the back of the Emperor. The tears brimmed in her eyes, but they did not fall.

Translator Ramblings: The emperor blames everything on his wife … … it’s like he didn’t have a hand in raising his son.

I feel asleep. That’s the reality and I have no excuse for being late.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

王妃 wang fei: princess consort 府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound 本王 ben wang: literally “this wang/prince”; illeism used by princes Chapter Thirty-Six: Fake Gentleman

The matter of Xian Junwang Fei being wounded by the Imperial Brother-in-law who let his horse run amok quickly spread through all of Jing. Because the Imperial Brother-in-law had been arrogant in his conduct before, many people had been discontent with him. Now they heard thisperson had done something even more outrageous: he had shocked Xian Junwang Fei‘s carriage and wounded Xian Junwang Fei‘s forehead, which caused Xian Junwang to be extremely distressed.hey also heard that when the Imperial Brother-in-law went to apologize, he had looked down on others and when he left the junwang fu, he even kicked the stone lion at the gates. This was extremely outrageous and meant that he even looked down on the people of the Imperial Family.

The stone lions represented the face of a family. Families without status could not put out stone lions. Even if they did, there were many details and protocols. This Imperial Brother-in-law was great. He carelessly kicked another family’s prestige. What was this if not arrogant?

Among the prestigious families, the Fang Family was a noble one that only rose up because of their daughter. Calling the Fang Family “nobility” was due to the Emperor and the Crown Prince. Otherwise, no one would even look at a family like this that had no manners.

There were no secrets in Jing. Everyone saw Fang Cheng De’s speech and actions. The Imperial Family members in Jing felt that Fang Cheng De had gone over the line, and were dissatis ied with both the Fang Clan and the Empress. Right now, the memorandums that were criticizing the Fang Family increased, but Qi Long Emperor had pushed all of them down. This caused the members of the Imperial Family to be even more discontent. Right now, this Imperial Brother-in-law dared to treat Xian Junwang so. When the Crown Prince succeeded the throne in the future, how would they—these members of the Imperial Family who couldn’t be considered as prominent—live? could the members of the Imperial Family such as they who did not have such high status life? Would they have to live under the power of the Fang Family? Where would the respect and dignity of the Imperial House be?

Maybe it was because he knew that the Imperial Family members were dissatis ied with this matter that Qi Long Emperor sent a decree in front of the court punishing Fang Cheng De a few days later. The decree did not mention what the Fang Family had done in the background, only criticizing Fang Cheng De for letting his horse run free and harming the innocent. He was sentenced to losing his wages for three years, and was

demoted from a irst rank marquis to a third rank marquis. He was ordered to re lect inside his home and could not leave the compound.

This decree was very strict at irst impression, but if one thought carefully, they would ind that this was really nothing. Fang Cheng De still had the marquis title. Even if he was demoted in rank, it would just take a few words from the Emperor to restore his previous rank.

This kind of punishment would not be as pleasing as beating Fang Cheng De in front of the palace a few dozen times. The Emperor’s actions were just done to act for those common people who did not understand politics, and were not an explanation for the Imperial House.

Yan Jin Qiu was not surprised at all by the Emperor’s decree. Because no matter how capable the Emperor was, he had a fatal weakness—the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince was not a wise person, was proud and greedy. But he was the only son of the Emperor. The Fang Family was the maternal family of the Crown Prince. If the Fang Family fell, then if the Crown Prince succeeded the throne, he would have a hard time in the future. So the Emperor had to protect the Fang Family because the Fang Family was the Crown Prince’s maternal family and on his side. Fang Cheng De was useless, but his two children, just over ten years old, were hardworking and intelligent. When the Crown Prince succeeded the throne, they would be at an age when they could enter the court and would be good helpers for the Crown Prince.

Thinking about this, Yan Jin Qiu smiled coldly on the inside. So what if the two Fang children had talent? Young children were not set in their personalities. Also, it was unknown if the Emperor could really manage

to survive until then. It was uncertain if a crown prince who still did not have any children and had a bad reputation could really establish himself on the throne.

“Junwang Ye, the spies who made their way into the fu have been found.”

“Take them to the dark room.” Yan Jin Qiu lowered his face and closed the book he was reading. A sliver of a smile came onto the corner of his mouth. “Ben wang will have to question these people well.”

The person who came to report lowered his head more. “Yes.”

The underground passageway to the dark room was actually very bright. Embedded on the wall at every few steps were night pearls that shone with a warm light, and all kinds of luxurious decorations. If people accidentally came into this place, they would only feel that this was the place where the junwang fu stored its precious metals and expensive artifacts. They would not connect these things to something else.

When the passageway reached the bottom, there was a little room that was not very small yet not very large. There were all kinds of precious treasures inside that could dazzle and blind people’s eyes. In the place where the light was brightest, Yan Jin Qiu’s subordinate walking behind YJQ’s tapped on a brick that seemed like the others. Even the sound of tapping was not any different. He then pushed the brick down three

times, and then the thick wall at the side slowly opened to reveal a slightly dim passageway.

Going down slowly through the passageway revealed the true secret room. Torture tools that emanated the smell of blood, a slightly damp ground, the enormous beast in the corner with an open mouth whose eyes were made from night pearls—it seemed extremely vicious in the dim room. No one would think this was the air hole for the secret room.

The spies were chained up by their ribs. The height they were dangling from was just the slightest bit higher than their own height. If they did not want their ribs to hurt from being hurt by the metal hooks, they had to go on tiptoes. But having lost a lot of blood, they did not have enough energy to persist long in that position. When they used up their energy, the metal hooks would once again pull at their wounds. After the cycle repeated, this tormented them to the point that they wanted death. They desired to have someone come and kill them with a blow to end their suffering.

“You all are good men who will not show any expression on their face. These metal hooks must not pose a dif iculty to you.” The secret room was slightly humid and hot. Even the smell was not very good. The subordinates behind Yan Jin Qiu lit up some incense and put out ice as though this was not an interrogation room but Yan Jin Qiu’s study.

“You fake gentleman, just do as you will, do not waste words.” The oldest person spat out blood and spittle in Yan Jin Qiu’s direction. His voice was both discontent and full of hate. “I wonder how many people in Jing know the honored Xian Junwang is so vicious and ambitious. Does your beautiful Xian Junwang Fei know of your other face?”

“You don’t have a say in matters about ben wang‘s woman” Yan Jin Qiu smiled thinly at these people and did not show any fury. He walked forward and pulled at the metal hook. The face of the person who had spoken twisted up in pain. Yan Jin Qiu’s smile grew. “You do not need to say if ben wang is fake or not. Can you spies really call other people fake?”

Maybe it was because the wounds were too painful that the older spy did not speak. The other spies seemed to become timid and did not speak.

“What, are you all dumb?” Yan Jin Qiu used the fan in his hand to tap the metal hook holding onto the bone. Then he disdainfully threw the fan to the side and started to use a handkerchief to wipe his hands. “Since you are all hard to crack and are not willing to confess, then you can all hang here. Ben wang just loves to admire you loyal dogs.”

As the blood of these people dripped onto the ground, the smile on his face increased as though he was looking at a beautiful picture scroll. “Take good care of these good dogs.”

After admiring the pained states of these people, Yan Jin Qiu walked out of the secret room in a good mood. When he returned to the study, he bent his head and saw a bit of dirty water on his shoe. He frowned in disdain. “Someone, come. Ben wang needs to bathe.”

Hua Xi Wan’s wound slowly recovered as she rested on the bed for a few days. She could inally get out of bed to move. She irst looked around her own yard and teased the myna bird in the cage hanging in the corridor. “Where did the servant responsible for the myna go? This water is slightly dirty.”

“Zhang Le’s family came to pay for his contract. I heard that he went back home to get married.” The steward came forward and said, “Because he left yesterday, there was no time to ind a servant who knew birds to take his position.”

Hua Xi Wan turned to look at this steward who seemed extremely honest. Then she continued to tease the myna. “Really?”

“Really, really, really?” The myna lapped its wings and copied the words.

A thin layer of sweat appeared on the steward’s back.

“Since the person has left, then try to arrange for a new one to come as soon as possible.” After playing for a while, Hua Xi Wan did not have any more interest. “I think that this bird is interesting. Take care of it. It would be pretty good to play with it to while away the time on some days.”

“This small one will remember.” The steward instantly retreated in order to arrange this. When he had gone quite a distance, he turned

back and saw Junwang Fei was still standing in the corridor. Her face was expressionless, and one could not see what her mood was like.

Bai Xia frowned. A few days ago, this servant called Zhang Le had talked about his family of several generations to them. He had said there weren’t many people left in his family. His only sister had died. Who had come to pay his contract?

Returning to the room, Bai Xia said this to Hua Xi Wan and saw her mistress’ expression shift slightly.

“Since someone has come to pay his contract, only relatives would be willing to do such a thing.” Hua Xi Wan quickly recovered. “He is just a rough labor servant. Do not spend much attention on him. Let’s just hope that he will have good days in the future.”

Bai Xia complied and did not speak further about this. On the second day, she asked around about the servants in the inner and outer compound who were gone, and appeared much more composed. She had obtained the names of these people and what they had done. After reporting to her mistress, she saw her mistress’ expression become even stranger.

Ever since Hua Xi Wan married in, she knew that Xian Junwang Fu was not as simple as she had imagined. But ever since she married into this Xian Junwang Fu, there was no way she could go back. She had to pretend to not know what she did. Only people like this could live more easily.

Hong Ying saw Bai Xia’s and Mistress’ expressions were not good and did not understand what happened. However, when she moved around, she became even more careful.

When it was night, a servant came to report that Junwang Ye was coming later to have the evening meal. Hua Xi Wan did not ask anything else but had the people from the Food Room prepare some dishes like Yan Jin Qiu liked.

If she meddled in too much, what could she do if she activated this junwang ye‘s berserker mode?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang ##

Chapter Thirty-Seven: Invitation

Near the evening, Yan Jin Qiu came in from outside the fu. He allowed the servants to help him undress out of his outer robe and then sat down refreshed next to Hua Xi Wan. “Today, the Emperor bestowed two estates. Later, I will have Mu Tong bring you the property deeds for you to manage.”

“Why did the Emperor bestow down estates?” Hua Xi Wan saw that the heat on his face had not left, so she fanned him with the fan in her hand. “We have many estates under our name. Some we have rented out to tenants, and we have kept the more productive ones ourselves.”

Yan Jin Qiu had the servant girls in the room leave before he said, “Even though the matter of Fang Cheng De had a conclusion, many people in the Imperial Clan have opinions about the Emperor’s decree. The Emperor probably feels regret, so he especially bestowed down two estates.”

“It appears that with an injury to the head, I received two estates. This is very pro itable.” Hua Xi Wan smiled. The Emperor’s actions were to stop their Xian Junwang Fu from saying anything. However, the Heavens watched one’s actions. Some things seemed smoothed over on the surface, but in reality, they had already caused a knot in other people’s hearts.

In the eyes of the Emperor, the dignity of the Imperial House was so easily taken care of. What did the other Yan family members think? If the Crown Prince succeeded the throne, would he really be able to keep that seat?

Yan Jin Qiu saw that Hua Xi Wan was smiling carelessly. He grasped her hand and did not speak, but there was unmelting coldness in his eyes.

“Are you hungry? I had the Food Room prepare some refreshing dishes. Eat some more later, you seem thinner recently.” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “No matter how busy outside matters are, you need to take care of your body.”

“Maybe it is because the weather is too hot that my appetite is not large. There are not many matters outside.” Yan Jin Qiu released Hua Xi Wan’s

hand. “Now that you say it, I do feel slightly hungry. Have them serve the meal.”

When the rice and dishes were presented, husband and wife sat together to eat. After the meal, the two sat together to play weiqi. As a miss of the marquis fu, while Hua Xi Wan was a lazy person, she had learned everything that a noble miss should know. She could manage for a while against Yan Jin Qiu. Even though she would win a small minority of games, that was probably because Yan Jin Qiu let her.

“Someone sent up pearls from the Lin Sea a few days ago, and the color is pretty good. I had my dowry shop’s craftsman make some hairpins with pearls encrusted. Even though it is not very rare, it looks novel. How about I have the guests in the fu take them back to their womenfolk?”

“This is good. It will be Mid-Autumn in a few more days. It is good to have the visitors take something home.” Yan Jin Qiu stilled and then understood what Hua Xi Wan intended. Sometimes, pillow-talk worked better than anything else. Xian Junwang Fu did not have to worry about the loyalty of these people, but it was best not to forget to give them favor when they earned it.

“Since that is the case, I will add some more things and then send this. It would look better.” Hua Xi Wan looked at the pieces on the weiqi board. Yan Jin Qiu’s playing seemed warm, but it would unknowingly cut off all her paths of retreat, so that she was unable to advance or retreat. She put down a piece in the corner that blocked Yan Jin Qiu’s attack. “Jin Qiu is going to win this one again.”

“Playing is just for amusement—why care about victory or defeat?” Yan Jin Qiu smiled as he put down a piece randomly. “It is not early; we should bathe and sleep.”

Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow with a smile. She put the piece back into the bowl. “All right.” How could she not understand such a clear clue?

##

When Hua Xi Wan woke up in the morning, Yan Jin Qiu had gotten up and left. She rubbed her slightly sore waist and then yawned as Hong Ying and the others helped her dress.

Cheng Qiu had not been by her side for a long time, and was one who was of few words. However, her feet and hands were very nimble. She did not like to take work from Bai Xia and the other servant girls, so she gradually became familiar with them.

Her hairstyling skills were very good. When she worked on Hua Xi Wan, her hands were both gentle and nimble, so Hua Xi Wan put her in charge of the hair adornments.

“Mistress’ hair is even smoother than the best silk.” Cheng Qiu used a mutton-fat jade hairpin to secure Hua Xi Wan’ hair and couldn’t help

but praise, “When this servant touches your hair and then touches mine, it is like touching dry grass.”

“You inally understand how much we have not liked our hair over the years.” Zi Shan came in with a smile and a box. A pair of blood coral and pearl earrings was revealed when she opened the box. After she helped Hua Xi Wan put them on, she said, “In a few more days, you will de initely start to disdain your own skin.”

“Look look, I was just wondering how Cheng Qiu learned such sweet words. So the person who taught her is here.” Because Hua Xi Wan was staying home and it was hot, she picked a set of mutton-fat white jade hair adornments. She felt it was more refreshing to wear than gold hairpins.

“Us servants do not know how to say sweet things. It is just that Mistress has hair that is too smooth, and skin that is too tender and white.” Zi Shan organized the jade pendants and pouches that were weighing down Hua Xi Wan’s skirts. “Aren’t servants allowed to say honest words?”

Hearing this, Cheng Qiu covered her mouth and laughed, taking care not to compete with Zi Shan.

Hua Xi Wan shook her head in helplessness and reached out to poke Zi Shan’s forehead. She was just preparing to tease Zi Shan when she saw Bai Xia come in with a gold-embossed invitation. Someone that could

have Bai Xia personally come in with an invitation was not one who was normal. Her smile faded. “Which family?”

“The fu of Princess Rui He delivered it.” Bai Xai curtsied at Hua Xi Wan and then presented the invitation with two hands.

Hua Xi Wan took it for a scan and said with a smile, “Since Princess Rui He is inviting us to see the laurel, how can I not give face?” Finishing, she had Bai Xia start to grind ink. She was preparing to personally reply to the invitation.

Bai Xia was surprised that Miss would accept, but she did not hesitate in her steps. Turning, she followed Hua Xi Wan into the side room and started to grind ink for Hua Xi Wan.

Princess Rui He who had always been interested in hosting all kinds of gatherings could only become low-key in this period of time because of the Crown Prince and the Fang Family. Now that the matter was inished, with this person’s personality, she naturally could not wait to host a gathering.

So how could she, the victim, not go? It had to be said that all of Jing wanted to know how badly she was wounded. She was a kind person and she would relieve them of their puzzlement.

As to how she would do it, and what others would think, that was none of her business.

##

“Junwang Ye, Junwang Fei has already accepted the invitation from Princess Rui He.”

“Is she going?”

“Junwang Fei has personally sent a reply stating that she would arrive on time on the day of.”

A moment of silence.

“I know.”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound 夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady, referring to the legitimate wife ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 舅舅 jiujiu: mother’s brother 堂弟妹 tang dimei: father’s brother’s (younger) son’s wife 郡主 junzhu: title given to a daughter of a qinwang ( irst-rank prince), or to a female of the Imperial Family by the Emperor’s decree

郡王 junwang: second-rank prince

驸⻢ fuma: the husband of a princess 亲王 qinwang: irst-rank prince 嫡 di: child born of the of icial wife, not of a concubine 表妹

[1] biao mei: father’s sister’s (younger) daughter; or mother’s sibling’s (younger) daughter

Chapter Thirty-Eight: Do Not Have To Worry

Princess Rui He was someone the noblewomen in Jing had to carefully respect. However, in secret, many people were happy to laugh at her. As for the reason, it was mostly because that Princess Rui He was slightly arrogant. Then, there were people who liked to see people above them in status have misfortune. This kind of mentality was not something that could be rationalized, but it was undeniable that the world never lacked for people like this.

Originally, the womenfolk had not been very interested in this kind of a gathering. But Princess Rui He had been silent for two months. Now that she had come back to life with full vigor, if they did not give face to her, they wouldn’t know how Her Highness the Princess would hate them. After thinking it over, it was still better to attend.

However, their disinterested attitudes took a turn after they learned that Xian Junwang Fei was attending. The womenfolk liked to gossip. This was not something to be disdained. It was just because there was only so much happening in the inner compound. What they could talk about was how this family had how many children, or how that family had someone favoring a concubine. Now, the victim of the matter that had been in the public eye recently was going to appear. This was a hard to come by excitement.

The one who injured Xian Junwang Fei was the Imperial Brother-in-law. That was the maternal clan of Princess Rui He. The wife of the man was also going to attend the gathering. When the wife of the culprit and the victim met, wouldn’t this be a great show?

No matter how these women thought, when they arrived at the princess’ fu, all of them looked digni ied. They complimented each other with smiles on their faces. Even the wife of the Imperial Brotherin-law who had been demoted two ranks did not get the cold treatment. The women of prestigious families were best at these handkerchief relationships. On the surface, it was not possible to see who liked whom, or who and who were on bad terms.

The Imperial Brother-in-law’s furen, Lin shi, felt slightly ashamed, but after some conversation, she relaxed slightly. However, her good mood did not continue for long because a taijian came from the outside to report the carriages of Sheng Junwang Fei and Xian Junwang Fei had arrived.

Lin shi‘s smile instantly became slightly awkward. As a woman, she naturally knew how important the appearance of a woman was. This

time, Xian Junwang Fei had been injured on her face. It would be all right if that did not leave a scar, but if it did leave one, how could she feel reassured? She hated how helpless she was. She was not favored by her husband, and was unable to persuade him in his daily actions. This had caused Xian Junwang Fei to be innocently injured.

Many womenfolk wanted to see if there was a scar on Xian Junwang Fei‘s face. So when Hua Xi Wan and Hou shi appeared, everyone greeted the both of them, but they looked out from the corner of their eye at Hua Xi Wan.

When they looked, they saw there was a lifelike plum blossom drawn on the forehead of Xian Junwang Fei. The pink lower and the crisp green leaves contrasted beautifully against Xian Junwang Fei‘s face and pale skin. However, no one was able to see if there was a scar or not.

It would not be good of them to stare at Xian Junwang Fei, so after some words, they all sat down. There were several spots between where Lin shi was sitting in the middle and Hua Xi Wan. When she saw the drawing on Hua Xi Wan’s forehead, her heart jumped.

She had heard that Xian Junwang Fei had a beautiful face. Even if she did not put on makeup, she was a rare beauty. Now, she had drawn out an exceptional lower right where she was wounded. If it was not to cover her scar, why was it there?

There were many people who had the same thoughts as Lin shi. However, because this matter was connected with Princess Rui He’s

maternal family, they could not ask, so they turned to speak of clothing.

Princess Rui He saw the womenfolk were so perceptive, and the smile on her face grew. Her eyes lashed across Hua Xi Wan’s forehead, and she said in a slightly apologetic tone, “Jiujiu is a busy person and accidentally disturbed Tang Dimei‘s carriage. How has Tang Dimei‘s wound recovered?”

The smile on Hua Xi Wan’s face did not change as she said in a warm tone, “Your Highness, thank you for your concern. There is no more impediment.”

The word impediment was a very tricky word. It could mean that it had healed, or that it was almost healed, and there were no major problems. As to how it really was… everyone looked with slight pity at the lower. It really was a pity.

Min Huai Junzhu looked at Hua Xi Wan’s forehead and felt pleasure inside. Didn’t Hua Xi Wan enchant Xian Junwang based on that face of hers? Now that she lost this lawless face, what could she use to enchant people?

Princess Rui He heard this and nodded. She smiled and said, “Since there are no more problems, that is good.”

These words were really too meaningless. Xian Junwang Fei said there was no impediment—could she complain to you, the niece of the

Imperial Brother-in-law?

The people watching felt speechless, but this did not stop Princess Rui He from wanting to show off because she had built a new building in the fu. If she did not have the other noblewomen come to see the scenery and drawings inside the yard, and give some praise, could she be at ease?

From an objective angle, this yard was truly beautiful. However, Hua Xi Wan personally liked the architectural style of Xian Junwang Fu, so after she gave some compliments with the other women, she did not speak anymore.

Princess Rui He’s goal was reached. After keeping everyone for a meal and then watching a play, she ended this gathering.

The other people left, but Min Huai Junzhu was still staying in the princess’ fu. Princess Rui He knew what Min Huai Junzhu thought about Xian Junwang, but she always scorned the romantic feelings between women and men. In her view, after marriage, having feelings or not was the exact same. Time was like a dull knife. It didn’t just grind and cool down people’s feelings, it could erase all feelings.

So for her, feelings were not as important as clothing and jewelry. In order to play, she even had some handsome manservants in her fu. So what if they did nothing? At least, they were pleasing to look at. In any case, her fuma was of a timid personality and could not control her. She

also did not want to see the fuma acting sluggish, as if he was more dead than alive.

“After this autumn, you will be sixteen.” Princes Rui He saw Min Huai Junzhu had her head bowed and was silent, so she said, “Your mother only has one daughter and one son. The Yuan Family is not a very noble family—have you thought about your future?”

Princess Shun Yi’s mother was of low status. After she married into the Yuan Family, her relationship with the fuma could only be said to be respectful. Fortunately, she had a son and a daughter and it was not too lonely. It was a pity that this fuma was not a good one who worked hard. Princess Shun Yi’s relationship with the palace was not very close. Additionally, she had been on the sickbed the past few years. Min Huai Junzhuwas raised in front of the Empress.

A year ago, because a consort wanted to harm the Empress, Princess Shun Yi drank the tea instead of the Empress, so the plot did not work. Princess Shun Yi survived, but her body completely broke down. When the weather turned hot or cold, she could not get out of bed. She had to lie down and rest.

However, due to this, the Emperor made an exception and conferred to her son the title of marquis, and to her daughter the position of junzhu,something reserved for the daughters of qinwang and junwang. He had also given her a special title of Min Huai.

Princess Rui He looked down on the Yuan Family, but she liked Min Huai Junzhu‘s intelligent attitude. Therefore, she did spend some time on the other’s marriage.

Hearing this, Min Huai Junzhu stilled and then said with a bashful expression, “Whatever Your Highness and the Empress decide.”

“I’m slightly older than you, but it has to be Mother-Empress who makes the inal choice.” Princess Rui He saw that she was not muddleheaded in the end, and her expression grew better. “If it was up to me, the di eldest grandson of the An Country Duke family is good. He is a humble and polite person, and he knows to work hard. The status of the Country Duke Fu is not a low one, but compared to your identity as an Imperial Junzhu, they can only respect you and will not make things dif icult for you.”

Min Huai Junzhu felt bitter inside. The di eldest grandson of the An Country Duke was as described, but this family was a solid monarchist family on the Crown Prince’s side. Princess Rui He suggested this and was using her as a tool for a marriage alliance.

But what could she do? Her mother was not favored by the Emperor, and her father only had an empty position. If she did not curry favor with the Empress and Princess Rui He, how could her younger brother have a future?

“Everything is up to the Empress.” Min Huai Junzhu stood up and curtsied to Princess Rui He. However, she felt even worse inside. After

she married, how much of a possibility could she have left with Xian Junwang?

Even though this dynasty had the example of the Xiaoyihede Empress Dowager who had married before entering the palace as a consort, that was because this Empress Dowager had a noble fate, and had beauty. Due to this, she received the favor of Emperor Jing, birthing the next Emperor and then receiving the seat of the Empress Dowager.

But it was a pity that she was not this Empress Dowager, and Xian Junwang was not the Emperor Jing.

Therefore, not long after Hua Xi Wan attended the gathering, she was shocked when the news came out of the palace that the Emperor was matchmaking for Min Huai Junzhu. As a woman, her sixth sense was still very strong. For example, she had detected long ago that Min Huai Junzhu had intentions towards Xian Junwang. However, she had not expected the other to so easily marry, and into the An Country Duke Fu who were staunch monarchists.

Thinking about the storm hidden in the Imperial House, Hua Xi Wan felt that she had some sympathy towards this Min Huai Junzhu. But it was just a little bit and nothing more.

In the afternoon when husband and wife were playing weiqi, they accidentally mentioned this topic. Hua Xi Wan saw that Yan Jin Qiu did not seem to have any response about the matter of Min Huai Junzhu‘s marriage, so she couldn’t resist asking, “The Emperor is really

matchmaking the dieldest grandson of the An Country Duke and Min Huai Junzhu?”

“Why would you think of this matter?” Yan Jin Qiu put down the next piece before he said slowly, “The matter is pretty much inalized but a decree has not been sent.”

表妹 biao mei: father’s sister’s (younger) daughter; or mother’s sibling’s (younger) daughter

“I just heard about it and asked.” Hua Xi Wan grabbed a piece and played with it. Seeing that Yan Jin Qiu’s playing style had not changed, she said, “At least, she is our biao mei[1], and we should prepare the gifts that are required.”

Yan Jin Qiu looked at the board and said unconcernedly, “We are just cousins. It’ll be ine if it can pass on the surface. Do we have to add to her dowry?”

“These words…” Hua Xi Wan smiled and said with a sigh, “Listening to you say this, I sigh in relief.”

Yan Jin Qiu stilled and then understood what Hua Xi Wan’s sigh of relief meant. He smiled at Hua Xi Wan and did not speak, but that smile seemed to communicate his thoughts towards Hua Xi Wan.

Seeing Hua Xi Wan was not speaking any longer, he reached out to hold her hand. “Something like that will never happen—you will not have to worry about it in the future.”

This time, it was Hua Xi Wan who smiled and did not speak.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

亲王 qinwang: irst-rank prince 府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound 郡主 junzhu: title given to a daughter of a qinwang ( irst-rank prince), or to a female of the Imperial Family by the Emperor’s decree

郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 嫡 di: child born of the of icial wife, not of a concubine ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady, referring to the legitimate wife 翁主 wengzhu: title given to a daughter of an imperial princess

王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a (qin)wang or prince

Chapter Thirty-Nine: Qinwang

The name of An Country Duke Fu did not sound as nice as the Princess Shun Yi Fu, but in reality, it was much more noble than Princess Shun Yi who did not hold any true power. Qi Long Emperor’s decree seemed slightly akin to pressing the ox to the water to drink. The An Country Duke Fudid not intend to meddle in the affairs of the Imperial Family, but they knew something about how Min Huai Junzhu was in love with Xian Junwang. Now that Xian Junwang had married such a beautiful Xian Junwang Fei and did not want this junzhu, the Emperor was having their di eldest grandson take her. What did they think that the An Country Duke Fu was, trash-pickers?

The common saying was that those who were matchmakers should do matches that would end in long-lasting marriages of love, and not hate. Qi Long Emperor’s decree was undoubtedly pushing a thorn into An Country Duke’s heart. His di eldest grandson was the one he was most satis ied with. He had originally wanted to get a learned and virtuous wife for his grandson, but then his grandson had been abruptly decreed a marriage.

Yet no matter how unhappy they were, the decree had been proclaimed. They could only show happiness as they went to the palace to state their gratefulness, and then go to Princess Shun Yi Fu to present the betrothal gifts on the day that the Imperial Astronomy Of ice calculated.

However, while there was a lot in the betrothal gifts, there wasn’t much sincerity in the end.

The families close to the An Country Duke Fu knew about how badly they felt. They would express sympathy in private, but in public, all of them would just give their congratulations with a smile. The An Country Duke had to swallow this bitter fruit as though it was sweet and fragrant.

On this day, Lu shi came to Xian Junwang Fu to visit Hua Xi Wan. She made sure that her daughter did not have any scar on her forehead before she sighed in relief. She then cursed the Fang Clan inside before she said in a low voice, “The marriage decree for Min Huai Junzhu and the dieldest grandson of the An Country Duke Fu has come down too fast. I went to the An Country Duke Fu a few days ago. Their betrothal gifts might appear good, but there isn’t much effort put in. Who knows what that person intends.”

Knowing that Mother was speaking of the Empress, Hua Xi Wan said with a thin smile, “Who knows, I only remember that this junzhu who was unmarried came to the bridal chamber on the day of my marriage.”

Lu shi had a strong personality, but that did not mean that she lacked intelligence. Hua Xi Wan’s words caused her brow to furrow. “So that is what she thinks? What I wonder is, if the people in the An Country Duke Fu know.”

“Some time ago, Princess Rui He invited us to the estate in the suburbs to play. When we were playing games, An Country Duke Fu‘s old Furenand the di granddaughter were both present.” Hua Xi Wan’s tone carried slight regret. “At that time, I did not pay attention and accidentally engaged in some slightly intimate actions with Junwang Ye. Min Huai Junzhu‘s expression was slightly ugly. I just don’t know if the An Country Duke’s old Furen saw. If she did, after asking around…” Hua Xi Wan sighed and said worriedly, “Then it would not be good. This is all my fault.”

“How can you be blamed for this matter? You and Son-in-law are newly married and it is understandable for you to be slightly close.” Lu shi smiled and raised a teacup for a drink. “Everyone has their own fate. What is the use in worrying about such things—it tires your mind.”

“Mother is right in lecturing me,” Hua Xi Wan responded. Then she looked at the fragrant laurel lowers in the vase. “We have already entered autumn and it will be Mid-Autumn soon. It is un ilial that Daughter cannot admire the moon together with Father and Mother.”

“We know your intentions.” Lu shi patted her daughter’s hand and forced a smile. She said, “You are a junwang fei now, you have started your own family—how can it be like when you were little? I only hope your days will get even better. That is most ilial of you.”

Hua Xi Wan’s heart was sore and soft. She put her head on Lu shi‘s shoulder. “With you all present, I’m forever a child.”

Lu shi sighed and reached out to pat Hua Xi Wan’s shoulder. She knew her own child. This girl seemed to be uncaring of all matters, but in reality, she thought the most of familial love. However, she had too few people in her heart, so not many knew.

It wasn’t even noon when Yan Jin Qiu came back in from the outside. When he saw Lu shi, he irst gave a proper bow of a junior and inquired about the health of Lu shi and the family. After he learned that everything was ine, he smiled and said, “My worries are rested knowing you are all ine. Xi Wan misses you usually. If Mother-in-law does not have many matters during the day, please come and visit. We do not have many people in the fu. Sometimes, I have of icial matters outside. It really is boring for Xi Wan to stay by herself in the fu.”

Lu shi smiled warmly and said, “It is the good fortune of our daughter that Junwang Ye loves Junwang Fei. But it would be too picky to say that in this enormous junwang fu, no one is keeping her company. Junwang, you cannot spoil her so.”

“Mother-in-law, you cannot say this.” Yan Jin Qiu glanced and smiled at Hua Xi Wan, his eyes warm. “There are many people in the fu but they are all servants—how can they compare to Mother-in-law? Also, Xi Wan is not picky. It is just my own sel ish desire to have her live more at ease.”

Hearing this, Lu shi‘s smile grew. She glanced at her daughter who had a faint smile all this time, gave a few polite words and then changed the topic.

At the noon meal, Yan Jin Qiu accompanied Hua Xi Wan and Lu shi to eat. After talking for a while after the meal, he stood and went to the study to give mother and daughter time to talk.

Lu shi missed her daughter, but she knew that she could not keep on staying in the junwang fu. That would not be appropriate. She personally neatened her daughter’s clothing and said in a small voice, “The Imperial House is complex and hard to understand, but you will have to live out the days. Remember, nothing can compare to the importance of yourself; do not be stupid.”

Hua Xi Wan nodded and had a choked up throat. “Mother, do not worry for me.”

Lu shi sighed and then became the marquis furen who was slightly ierce. “Please, Junwang Fei, take care of your body. Subject-wife bids farewell.”

Hua Xi Wan jerked her mouth in a smile. She sent off Lu shi out of the second door. Seeing Lu shi enter the sedan, she turned and went back to her yard.

The personal servant girls saw that their mistress was not in a good mood and tried to think of ways to make their mistress happy. They only sighed in relief when Hua Xi Wan inally gave a smile.

“I know that you are all worried about me.” Hua Xi Wan smiled and gave each of them a handful of candy. “Quick, eat some candy and make your mouths sweeter.”

“Then we servants will give thanks.” Bai Xia took the candy with a smile. She glanced at the sky outside. “The weather recently has not been as hot. Junwang Fei, you like to eat spicy food. How about the Food Room making some dishes for you?”

“This idea is pretty good.” Yan Jin Qiu walked in from outside and sat down next to Hua Xi Wan. He said, “Your servant girls are all very smart and serve you well. This is very good.”

“Isn’t it that these dishes it with your preferences?” Hua Xi Wan raised a brow. “If that is the case, you have to reward these servant girls.”

“Since it is the case, then each one of them will get a gold hairpin.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled and had Mu Tong note this down. “Is this enough sincerity?”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and pointed at her servant girls. “Quick, thank Junwang Ye for his grace.”

Bai Xia and the others thanked him and then perceptively went out, considerately closing the door behind them.

After the servants left, the smile on Yan Jin Qiu’s face faded. “Princess Shun Yi has become even more ill. She probably cannot live for a few more months.”

“No wonder the decree came so quickly, and the time is so rushed.” Hua Xi Wan poured a cup of tea for him. “But I heard that the Holy One and Princess Shun Yi do not have a close relationship. This time…”

“Princess Shun Yi was poisoned because of the Empress. His actions are showing others that he is one who remembers his debts, and are also meant to reassure the prestigious families.” Yan Jin Qiu raised the teacup and took a sip. “However, the choice of Min Huai Junzhu is not very suitable.” If it was any other junzhu or wengzhu of high status, they might be more suitable. As for Min Huai Junzhu… It would be good if she did not cause the opposite effect.

She had not expected Yan Jin Qiu to say it so clearly in front of her. Hua Xi Wan looked in slight surprise at Yan Jin Qiu. Seeing that he was focusing in concentration on drinking the tea she had poured him, she said with a smile, “Jin Qiu, I do not understand your words. Min Huai Junzhu is peerless in her virtues and skills, and many furen of prestigious families have praised her. It is a great and joyous event that the An Country Duke Fu is receiving such a virtuous grandson’s wife.”

Yan Jin Qiu looked at the patterns on the cup of conjoined branches. “Xi Wan is right, this is a joyous event.”

Hua Xi Wan gave Yan Jin Qiu a high review for being able to drop his honor so quickly and change his mind. She added another cup of tea for him as a reward.

Men, they had to be slightly perceptive. Otherwise, how could they survive outside? This was for his own good.

Since it was autumn, the fu had started preparing things for autumn. The servants also received some clothing. The things in the fu that were not used had to be stored away. All the servants in the fu had to help with this. As the mistress of the fu, Hua Xi Wan did not need to arrange every single matter. She only needed to look at the lists the stewards handed over and then decide whether to decrease it or not. As the mistress of the fu, if she had to work on every matter, no matter big or small, then she wouldn’t be able to sleep. She would only be working on the lists.

What Hua Xi Wan needed to pay personal attention to were the gifts for those of equal rank or above. The stewards would arrange and then report the coming-and-going of the lower ranks. Otherwise, what was the use of these stewards? Also, if she, the noble junwang fei, had to decide everything, then no one would praise her for her virtues when news of this spread. Those generous would praise her for being sincere, while those who were not would say that she was miserly.

Today, it was the birthday of this old furen, tomorrow, it would be the one-month celebration of this son, and then the day after, it would be someone’s marriage. In Jing where there were as many prestigious families as dogs, and Imperial Family members walked everywhere, she would have to send out gifts multiple times in a month. This was the

time for the stewards to show their skill. She did not need to worry that they would not do their best, because they wanted to do the best they could so they could show their faces in front of Hua Xi Wan.

Hua Xi Wan put a seal on the report for autumn clothing when Mu Tong walked in with a joyous expression and said, “Wang Fei, great news!”

Wang Fei?

Hua Xi Wan looked with an unchanged expression at Mu Tong who had knelt down. “What good event has happened?”

“The Emperor has sent down a decree today to promote Junwang Ye as special rank Qinwang. The people from the Ministry of Rites are going to come soon. Please prepare.”

Yan Jin Qiu’s rank was elevated without any reason? Hua Xi Wan looked at the bright sun in the sky. Had the sun risen from the west?

Someone as paranoid as Qi Long Emperor was this generous?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 府 fu: compound or estate; (jun/qin)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound

郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 亲王 qinwang: irst-rank prince 亲王妃 qinwang fei: the of icial wife of a qinwang 王爷 wang ye: His [Your] Royal Highness 王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a (qin)wang or prince

本王 ben wang: literally “this wang/prince”; illeism used by princes

姐姐 jiejie: elder sister ⼉媳 erxi: daughter-in-law 堂 tang: relatives with the same surname 夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady, referring to the legitimate wife 堂妹 tang mei: father’s brother’s (younger) daughter Chapter Forty: Congratulations

Hua Xi Wan felt suspicious, but she still changed into her junwang feiranked attire and then put on a heavy gold coronet to go to the main hall of the wangfu. Not long after she arrived, she saw Yan Jin Qiu come back dressed in the robes of a junwang. The major stewards of the yard were waiting outside the hall.

When Yan Jin Qiu walked into the hall, he saw Hua Xi Wan’s calm expression and knew that she was not shocked by this sudden news. He smiled and walked next to her to stand. He said in a light voice, “We

should eat earlier tonight.” This was akin to saying to Hua Xi Wan that they would talk in private later.

There were taijian and female of icials of rank standing inside the hall. Hua Xi Wan lightly put her hand on Yan Jin Qiu’s palm. She smiled. “All right.” She knew that the Emperor was not doing this with completely good intentions, but she could see from Yan Jin Qiu’s expression that he was happy about this. Therefore, she did not think any further and just waited for the people from the Ministry of Rites to come to proclaim the imperial decree.

Not long after the two started waiting, the of icials of the Ministry of Rites came with a large group of people. They then recited two long decrees. Basically, it was Yan Jin Qiu’s certi icate for his position of qinwang and Hua Xi Wan’s for her position of qinwang fei. What came with the certi icates was golden seals and books. The robes had not been inished, so they were still due. There was also the matter of the junwang fu that had to be enlarged. Since this had been a qinwang fu originally, the yards that had been locked would be opened, and then people from the Ministry of Works could come and do repairs. Items that could represent the identity of a qinwang were bestowed down in great numbers to show the vastness of imperial grace.

After listening for a long time, Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan inally inished listening to the list of what had been bestowed down. Husband and wife sent off the of icials of the Ministry of Rites, and then watched as things were carried into the yard in chests. In the process, there were two re ills of tea.

Whenever an object was called, servants would open the box so the two masters could see it. In the end, Hua Xi Wan could not help but move her gaze away. It was not that she did not like money, but she really understood now what “gold was dazzling, and silver was stupidly white” meant. If she kept on looking, she would become blind.

“Tired?” Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Xi Wan’s state and then gave a look to the nearby servants. He then said, “If you are tired, we will go into the room to rest. The servants can supervise here.”

Hua Xi Wan nodded and seemed to weakly touch the heavy gold coronet on her head. By now, she was a high and clean person who thought of money and gold as dirt.

Returning to the room, Hua Xi Wan irst allowed the servant girls to help her change out of the junwang fei robes and put on a beautiful and loose loor-length dress before she exhaled. She rubbed her neck and said, “If that keeps on pressing down, I will be a hand’s width shorter.”

“Is it that heavy?” Yan Jin Qiu reached out to rub the back of her neck. “Is it better now?”

“Your skill is not as good as that of my servant girls.” Hua Xi Wan glanced at him with a smile. “Fine, I do not dare to have Wang Ye do such a thing. Let them do this.”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled and took his hand away. Then he said, “There will probably be many well-wishers who will come to our fu soon. It will be a hardship for you in the next few days.”

Hong Ying saw the situation and walked behind Hua Xi Wan to start a massage.

“There are the stewards who will help; it will not be very hard.” Hua Xi Wan lazily leaned back and sat in the chair. She said slowly, “The great benevolence of the Emperor is a great and joyous matter. Even if I am tired, I am happy inside.”

“That is true.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at the servants who were standing inside the room. “How about you nap for a while? You would usually be having a noon nap right now.”

“That is also good.” Hua Xi Wan waved her hand for the servants in the room to leave. After the two lay down in bed, Yan Jin Qiu inally said, “I heard that just yesterday, the Emperor was angry with Sheng Junwang and had him return to his fu to re lect for three days.”

Hua Xi Wan felt that her intelligence was not enough for matters of the court, so after she heard this, she thought for a long while before she said, “The Emperor lectured Sheng Junwang yesterday, and today elevated you to qinwang—what does he intend?” This was like the hard-working child was being lectured by the parent after making one mistake, but the lazy child was being rewarded for doing nothing?

“It is not so simple.” Yan Jin Qiu reached out to hold her in his embrace. “Sheng Junwang holds great power now. A portion of the of icials respects him greatly. Under this kind of circumstances, the Emperor cannot help but second-guess him. He is purposefully hitting one and pulling another. This is just to have Yan Bo Yi think that I was doing something in the middle, and to have us ight. Yan Bo Yi has the support of some of icials, and I have the qinwang title that Yan Bo Yi does not. No matter who is winning, for the Emperor, we are all losers.”

This explanation did seem to it. Hua Xi Wan yawned and did not continue to ask. There were some things that she did not know and it was best if she did not know.

The room gradually quieted. A long while later, Yan Jin Qiu stood up from the bed. Along the edge of the bed, he sat and looked at the woman sleeping sweetly as she hugged the duvet. He stood and walked to the copper mirror that Hua Xi Wan usually used to put on her makeup and coincidentally saw the smile at the corner of his mouth that had not yet dissipated.

His expression changed slightly. He turned back to look at the person sleeping on the bed. A moment later, he left the room.

Hong Ying and the others who were waiting outside saw Wang Ye come out, and all took a step back before silently curtsying.

“Serve Wang Fei with care. Ben wang is going to the study. When Wang Fei wakes up, have someone tell ben wang.” Yan Jin Qiu knew that Hua

Xi Wan’s servant girls were all loyal and did not speak more.

“Yes, this servant will remember.” When Hong Ying raised her head, she saw that Wang Ye had already left, and silently released a breath. Just now, Wang Ye still seemed as warm as usual, but she was especially fearful of Wang Ye—as though if she wasn’t careful, she would lose her life.

“Hong Ying Jiejie, just now Steward Mu Tong had people deliver the things here. Do we need to report to Wang Fei?” Cheng Qiu came in with some servant women who were holding sandalwood boxes. Given the sweat on the heads of the servant women, it could be seen that the boxes were not light.

“Let’s irst put the things into the storeroom and report to Wang Fei when she wakes up.” Hong Ying opened all the boxes and took a look. She saw it was just some jewelry and precious stones, so she personally led the people to put the things into Hua Xi Wan’s personal stores. In any case, Wang Fei did not lack for these things.

“What did you say? Xian Junwang was sealed qinwang?” Hua Yi Liu looked at her personal servant girl. She sat dazedly for a long time before she said, “Last night, did lord husband go to the side yard to rest again?”

She saw that while her personal servant girl did not speak her expression changed, so she knew that Zhou Yun Heng had gone there last night. She did not have the time to say anything else before she saw

her mother-in-law come in with her younger sister-in-law. She could only stand and usher the two of them in.

“Erxi, three days later, you will go with me to Xian Qinwang Fu to give good wishes. Xian Wang Fei and you are tang sisters, and it is not good if you, the elder sister, do not go when such a joyous event occurs.” Zhou Furen received the tea that Hua Yi Liu presented and took a sip. After she chatted a while longer with Hua Yi Liu, she smiled faintly and said in a change of topic, “The disobedient ones in Yun Heng’s yard, I have sent them away. I still hope to be able to hold you and Yun Heng’s child.”

Hua Yi Liu forced out a smile. “They are all women who serve Husband. It is harmless for Husband to pity them usually.” The small bits of anticipation she had felt when she married had been ground down by these days. She did not have any more hopes for Zhou Yun Heng. Right now, the reason why her mother-in-law had come to say this much was clearly because Hua Xi Wan, Xian Wang Fei, was her tang mei. Otherwise, she would not do such a thing.

Originally, right after the mourning period of the old Zhou Furen, Zhou Yun Heng had gotten someone pregnant and the news had spread. When she married in, the people in the yard had not been cleared out. Right now, those people were being sent away because Hua Xi Wan had become a qinwang fei. Then what was she?

“Even so, if a man is enchanted with beauty, how can he accomplish anything?” Zhou Furen said with a smile, “You are a virtuous one—with you present, I have nothing to fear.”

Hua Yi Liu exchanged a few more courtesies before Zhou Furen bid farewell, but there was no mirth in her eyes.

After her mother-in-law and sister-in-law left, Hua Yi Liu thought of Hua Xi Wan who was surrounded by the servant girls, then the handsome Xian Wang, then Zhou Yun Heng who spent every day immersed in women. She covered her face with a handkerchief and soundlessly cried in pain.

The second day after Yan Jin Qiu became a qinwang, the good wishes came like a lood. Of the women who visited, Hua Xi Wan only received those of high status from the Imperial Family and from prestigious families. The other people knew this and expected it. They only sent in their cards as a matter of courtesy. If Xian Wang Fei met them, they were lucky. It was normal if she did not see them.

She de initely had to see the people of Yi’an Marquis Fu. The second day after the imperial decree came down, Hua Xi Wan saw people from her paternal family. She had said some extra words, but because there were too many people she had to see, there was no chance to talk in private.

The day before the Mid-Autumn Festival, the number of people who came inally decreased. Hua Xi Wan sighed in relief. But after she inished eating breakfast, she heard a servant report that Assistant Minister Zhou’s fu had come to congratulate her.

Hua Xi Wan sighed. She originally did not want to see the Zhou Family, but thinking that Hua Yi Liu had married into this family, she could only

have the servants irst settle them in and she would arrive later.

When Zhou Furen saw the servant invite them in, she sighed in relief inside. She glanced at her daughter and Hua Yi Liu behind her. She neatened her clothing. “When you are in front of Wang Fei, do not lose your composure.”

“Daughter will remember,” Zhou Jin Xi said in a small voice. She knew that Mother was trying to connect with Xian Wang Fu so that Xian Wang Fei would have a good opinion of her and so she could appear at more important gatherings.

“Zhou Furen, Mrs Zhou, Miss Zhou, please sit and wait for a moment. Wang Fei will arrive shortly.” The person who received the three of them was Cheng Qiu. After she had a servant girl pour the trio tea, she stood at the side.

Zhou Furen looked at the decorations in the hall and then saw that the servant who welcomed them was dressed better than normal servant girls. Her daughter-in-law did not recognize this servant girl, so she guessed that this was a servant girl of the wang fu, and not one who came with Hua Xi Wan’s dowry.

She’d had the good fortune to visit Ning Wang Fu. While Ning Wang Fu looked grand and distinguished, the servants did not seem as wellmannered as those of Xian Wang Fu.

It could be seen that Xian Wang Fei was a woman with ability. She had to be more careful.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

夫⼈ furen: mistress or madam/lady, referring to the legitimate wife 王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a (qin)wang or prince

府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 亲王 qinwang or 王 wang: irst-rank prince; also called wang ye 堂姐 tang jie: father’s brother’s (older) daughter ⼉媳 erxi: daughter-in-law 太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 嫂⼦ saozi: older brother’s wife 侧室 ceshi: the highest rank of concubine

堂 tang: relatives with the same surname 堂嫂 tang sao: father’s brother’s (older) son’s wife 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince Chapter Forty-One: Laurel Flower Wine

A burst of light footsteps came outside the door. When Zhou Furen heard this, she put down the tea in her hand and stood. A short while later, she saw Xian Wang Fei come in with several beautiful servant girls. There was a small smile on her face, but no one dared to underestimate her.

“This old woman greets Xian Wang Fei.” Before Zhou Furen could complete her curtsey, she was held up by Hong Ying.

“Zhou Furen doesn’t have to be so courteous.” Hua Xi Wan sat down at the front and indicated for the servant girls to switch out the guests’ tea. “There are many things going on in the fu these last few days, and I am one without ability. I have been busy up until now and has caused Furento wait for a long time. I really cannot let this pass.”

“Wang Fei is too humble. The elevation of Wang Ye is a major event, and naturally there are many matters.” Zhou Furen was sitting properly, but her back was slightly bent to show a respectful attitude. “If it were anyone else, they would be in a panic right now. This old woman sees that the servants in the fu have quick hands and feet, and are very composed. It can bee seen that Wang Fei is virtuous but is afraid that we will be ashamed, so you are purposefully being humble.”

“I cannot accept such great praise from Zhou Furen.” Hua Xi Wan’s gaze swept across Hua Yi Liu. She saw the other was slightly thinner than before her marriage and her complexion was slightly pale. She saw that Miss Zhou, sitting beside the other, had a pink complexion which caused Hua Yi Liu to seem even more pale. “Has Eldest Sister been well recently?”

“Thanks to Wang Fei for asking. Everything is well.” Hua Yi Liu jerked out a smile and responded. However, there was no energy in her eyes, and she seemed as ancient as a woman of ifty and sixty.

Zhou Furen saw this and her heart jumped. She knew that her son had gone over the line, but she only had this one son. She did not bear to restrict him but was afraid that Xian Wang Fei would be angry.

“Eldest Sister seems thinner—should I invite a grand doctor to take your pulse?” Hua Xi Wan’s brow furrowed slightly, and then she said in a helpless tone towards Zhou Furen, “Tang Jie has the gentlest of personalities, and does not like seeing the doctor usually. Furen, please teach her more. As the younger sister, my words have no weight. However, this older sister is a ilial one. If Furen speaks, she will de initely listen.”

Zhou Furen said with a normal smile, “Wang Fei is right. My erxi‘s appetite has decreased recently, and this old woman has been worried. With Wang Fei‘s urgings, this old woman will have less worries.” Even though she said this, her hand that held the teacup tensed.

“It is erxi‘s wrong to worry Mother-in-law.” Hua Yi Liu smiled at Zhou Furen and then looked with a complex gaze at Hua Xi Wan. Thinking about her younger brother who had not yet attended the fall examination, her lips moved, but in the end, she did not say a word.

Zhou Furen saw her acting like this and was satis ied inside. Then she turned her head and said, “When I heard of the joyous matter for the fu, this old woman has come to give good wishes. Please, Wang Fei, forgive us for disturbing you.”

“Furen is being too polite in saying this.” Hua Xi Wan elegantly blew on the steam rising from the tea and then said, “You are an in-law of my Hua Family, so we are technically relatives. We should not say such courteous things.”

Zhou Furen went with the low and gave a few lattering words regarding Xian Wang Fu. Then somehow, the topic turned to the examinations. “The next year will be a Spring Examination Year again. I wonder how many famous people and scholars will come to Jing.”

“The more scholars there are, the more able people there are; this is very good.” Hua Xi Wan smiled and did not pick up Zhou Furen‘s

sentence. She turned to say, “Furen‘s daughter is very beautiful. How old is she this year?”

“Last month, she came of age.” Zhou Furen saw Hua Xi Wan ask about her daughter and couldn’t care about the topic of the imperial examination. She smiled and said, “She is an uncivilized little girl and cannot accept Wang Fei‘s compliment.”

“If Miss Zhou is an uncivilized little girl, then aren’t we savages?” Hua Xi Wan examined Zhou Jin Xi. “What books do you usually read at home?”

“Wang Fei, I have only read [The Four Books Of Women], [The Womanly Analects] and others.” Zhou Jin Xi did not know what was going on. The wang fei‘s gaze was clearly very warm, but she did not dare to meet the other’s eyes.

“En.” Hua Xi Wan nodded and gave a few words of praise. She did not say anything else.

At this time, a servant came to report that Wang Ye had returned to the fu. Zhou Furen was very perceptive and stood to bid farewell at seeing this. Hua Xi Wan insincerely tried to keep her, and when Zhou Furen bid farewell again, Hua Xi Wan had Bai Xia and the others see them out.

Hua Yi Liu was walking behind Zhou Furen, and from a distance, she saw Xian Wang and a few taijian walking on another path towards the

yard. She only saw the back of a igure, and when she looked again, the person had turned the corner.

When they left the gates of the wang fu, Zhou Jin Xi and Hua Yi Liu were on the same carriage. Zhou Jin Xiu said with bashfulness, “Saozi, is Xian Wang as outstanding as they say?”

Hua Yi Liu stilled slightly. Then she turned her eyes down and said, “Maybe. I only saw him twice at Eldest Uncle’s fu, and did not look at him closely.”

“Oh.” Zhou Jin Xi was slightly disappointed. She felt that, as an unmarried female, she should not ask these questions. She looked at Hua Yi Liu and saw that the other did not say anything, so she put her head down to play with her handkerchief.

When they returned to Zhou Fu, Zhou Furen looked at her pretty daughter and suddenly had a strange idea. “Erxi, I heard there is no ceshi in Xian Wang Fu?”

“Mother-in-law, Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei are deeply in love!” Hua Yi Liu’s voice became deeper. It was the irst time that she spoke in such a grave tone. “This is the good fortune of Wang Ye and Wang Fei.”

Zhou Furen hadn’t expected that her daughter-in-law would speak to her in a such a grave tone. After stilling for a moment, she seemed to

realize that her mind was too hot and then nodded. “You are right, Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei are people with good fortune.”

After separating from the mother-in-law and the younger sister-in-law, Hua Yi Liu leaned against the hand of the servant girl. More than half the energy in her body had left.

She was jealous of Hua Xi Wan, but she did not really want someone to break up this perfection. These con licted feelings consumed her mind and made her unable to sleep. Yet no one knew of her feelings.

When Yan Jin Qiu came into the inner compound, Hua Xi Wan gave him a general number regarding the thickness of the gifts that each family in Jing had sent, so he would know.

“Xu Wang Fu are our elders, so we can add two-tenths to the usual.” Yan Jin Qiu had not expected Hua Xi Wan to have such an attentive mind. After listening to her speak, he said, “Xu Wang Fei is an extremely harmonious person. If you are idle, you can go and speak to her.”

Hua Xi Wan nodded. The present Xu Wang and the present Emperor were tang brothers. Because the old Xu Wang had been very close with the previous emperor, the previous emperor had sent down a decree saying that if the next three generations of Xu Wang did not commit any great crimes, they would always inherit the qinwang position. So the present Xu Wang and his son were certainly qinwang as long as they did not have a mental problem and rebelled.

Due to this, Xu Wang was greatly respected among the Imperial Clan. Even the Holy One was very polite facing Xu Wang. The people of Xu Wang Fu were smart. They would do their own things and not meddle in other things. Their relationship with other wang fu was ordinary, but Xu Wang Fei liked Yan Jin Qiu a lot and always mentioned him.

But in the eyes of most people Xu Wang Fei was just a woman in the inner compound. She liked Xian Wang because he had a good appearance and talent, but this did not have anything to do with the court.

The Emperor was also very satis ied with Xu Wang Fu‘s conduct. The other people did not have any opinions. As a result, Xu Wang Fu had very good days in Jing but no one could criticize them.

“Xu Wang Fei is a very knowledgeable elder; I actually was thinking about learning from her.” Hua Xi Wan had met Xu Wang Fei before. Even though they did not have many times to see each other in private, nevertheless after conversations at gatherings and banquets, she knew that Xu Wang Fei was a very intelligent and kind person. From the bottom of her heart, Hua Xi Wan respected and liked this kind of elder.

When she had married Yan Jin Qiu, it seemed that Yan Jin Qiu had also invited Xu Wang Fei to help take care of the matters concerning the marriage, as a substitute for the elders of his family. It could be seen that Xu Wang Fei had great affection for Yan Jin Qiu.

When Yan Jin Qiu heard this, he did not take it seriously. It was not that he felt Hua Xi Wan did not respect Xu Wang Fei, but that he knew Hua Xi Wan was someone who would lie down if she did not have to sit. Why would she do something like what those normal women did in the inner compound if she did not have to do so?

“Good.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled. He glanced over the gift list on the table. When his gaze swept over Sheng Junwang Fu, his brow creased slightly.

“What is it?” Hua Xi Wan noticed that his expression was not right and looked over. Then she smiled and said, “The second day after you became qinwang, Tang Sao came with gifts to visit. Is something wrong with these objects?”

“Nothing.” Yan Jin Qiu put down the list. Yan Bo Yi had came that day. He and Yan Bo Yi were of different personalities. With the Emperor lighting and fanning the lames between them, he had originally thought that Yan Bo Yi would not react greatly on the surface. He had not expected the gifts this time to be so numerous. It felt as though he was trying to disguise something.

He did not know if the other was truly trying to disguise something or if he was acting for the Emperor.

His index inger lightly tapping the table, Yan Jin Qiu suddenly said, “Next month will be Sheng Junwang’s birthday. At that time, why don’t we give them a great gift?”

Hua Xi Wan swept her gaze across his sleeve and found that the hemming his sleeve was not right. Her expression did not change as she said, “All right, I had been planning the same thing.”

Yan Jin Qiu nodded and called someone in to help him change into another outer robe. After spending a long time with Hua Xi Wan, he gradually got some of her habits. For example, when he was in private and no one was around, he liked to wear a loose outer robe and move into a comfortable position to read. It could be seen that the speed with which someone fell was much faster than that of gaining a good habit.

After putting on the clothing, Yan Jin Qiu sat down next to Hua Xi Wan. He drank tea and said, “It will be Mid-Autumn tomorrow. After the banquet in the palace, we will return to the fu and admire the moon.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and said, “If the banquet tomorrow ends early, we can try. In any case, we still have several jars of old laurel blossom wine in the wine stores.”

“If that is the case, why don’t we send a few jars to Mount Tai and the brothers-in-law? Even though it is not anything rare, it can it the atmosphere.” Yan Jin Qiu reached out to gather Hua Xi Wan into his arms. “It will be our good wishes.”

” ‘You are so tender, though of pale, light yellow hue. Far from caress of heart and hand, fragrant are you.'[i] It is suitable to taste laurel blossom wine on this kind of day.” Hua Xi Wan adjusted to a comfortable

position. “Then I will have someone send the wine to the marquis fu in the afternoon.”

“En.” Yan Jin Qiu rubbed her neck lightly. Scenting the faint laurel blossom fragrance, he glanced with a dark expression across the outer robe that he had changed out of.

[i]. Partridge in the Sky by Li Qing Zhao, Translated by Xu Yuan Chong.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

王爷 wang ye: His [Your] Royal Highness 太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a (qin)wang or prince

府 fu: compound or estate; junwang fu: prince’s estate/compound 公公 gonggong: how to refer to a taijian 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince 亲王 qinwang: irst-rank prince 亲王妃 qinwang fei: the of icial wife of a qinwang ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name

堂嫂 tang sao: father’s brother’s (older) son’s wife 堂弟妹 tang dimei: father’s brother’s (younger) son’s wife 郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang Chapter Forty-Two: The Truth Was So…

“Did Wang Ye take Mu Tong to court today?” Hua Xi Wan touched the robe in her arms and looked with a smile at the junior taijian who was kneeling in front of her. Under her gaze, the other trembled, so she moved her eyes away.

“Wang Fei, Chief Steward Mu is on rest today and did not accompany Wang Ye to court.” The young taijian did not understand what Wang Feiintended, but watching Wang Fei caress the robe that Wang Ye had worn out yesterday as though it was something beloved, his back felt cold.

“If that is so, go invite Chief Steward Mu over—say that I have something to ask him.” Hua Xi Wan put down this outer robe and rubbed her forehead. She did not like the female arts, but the marquis fu had hired people to teach her all kinds of needlework methods. The sleeve of this robe clearly had been torn open and then sewn back together. Looking at the sewing method, it seemed to be from south of the river.

When Mu Tong heard that he was being summoned by Wang Fei, he was puzzled but he was not slow in his steps. He quickly rushed to the door, then adjusted his clothing before he said loudly, “This small one, Mu Tong, asks for an audience.”

“Come in.”

Mu Tong could not hear any emotion in this tone, so he buried his head and entered. After he made a bow, he found the robe in Wang Fei‘s arms. His heart skipped a beat. So Wang Fei knew?

Seeing Mu Tong change expression, Hua Xi Wan did not try to keep up the mannerisms expected of a wang fei, and had Mu Tong stand up to speak. “I saw that the sleeve of Wang Ye‘s robe does not seem to be hemmed. There are always people from the embroidery room who take care of Wang Ye‘s clothing, and a mistake like this should not occur. So I thought that someone outside had bumped into Wang Ye. After thinking for so long, I do not feel at ease, so I have summoned you to ask. You were serving Wang Ye yesterday. Do you know what occurred?”

What could Mu Tong say? If he said he did not know, then it was him, the servant, who was not ful illing his duties. Fortunately, there was a solution. After slightly thinking, he narrated the matter in truth.

“Yesterday, when we came out of the palace, Wang Ye originally wanted to go to a shop to get something. But halfway along the road, a little miss’ basket caught Wang Ye‘s sleeve and damaged it.” Mu Tong saw

that Wang Fei‘s expression was as usual, so he continued to speak. “The little miss’ needlework shop was just nearby, so she used needle and thread to repair it.”

What he said was the truth, but he had left out what he ought to leave out. For example, this little miss had a fresh face, and her body was thin like a willow, and her voice was like a songbird’s. Or for example, when the little miss bent down to repair Wang Ye‘s sleeve, she accidentally revealed she was a widow.

Mu Tong was a taijian but had to admit that the little miss was a very good-looking woman even though there was no seductiveness to be found from her.

After Hua Xi Wan heard this, she nodded and handed the clothing to Bai Xia. She said, “Put this away. Wang Ye is someone who does not waste, but let us not have Wang Ye wear something that has been repaired.”

“Yes.” Bai Xia curtsied. After taking the outer robe, she looked at Mu Tong who was in a bent position before turning and going out the door.

There was ine sweat on Mu Tong’s face. As a servant, he could not say to Wang Fei that this little miss’ manner was suspicious. But standing here under Wang Fei‘s gaze, it was slightly frightening.

“Even though she damaged Wang Ye‘s sleeve accidentally, she still repaired Wang Ye‘s robe for him.” Hua Xi Wan stood up from the chaise

and held Cheng Qiu’s hand to walk in front of Mu Tong. “How about you give the little miss twenty taels of silver on my behalf? It is not easy for such a young woman to live alone after being widowed.”

After taking the twenty taels of silver that Hong Ying handed over, Mu Tong accepted his orders and left. Coming out of the yard, he sighed in relief. Looking at the shiny white silver, he looked down at the ground.

When he came into the dim secret room with the silver, Mu Tong looked around and asked, “Did the woman who was delivered last night confess?”

“Chief Steward Mu, she has already confessed.” A man dressed in brown short robes handed over a piece of paper. “This woman was sent from Sheng Junwang Fu.”

Mu Tong waved his hand and did not take the confession. “Is she still alive?”

“This is unfortunate, she just stopped breathing, this…” The male was slightly panicked. Yesterday, Wang Ye had said if they could crack open this woman’s mouth, then life or death did not matter. Now Mu gonggong was asking if she was alive. Did Wang Ye change ideas? But now that the person was gone, what could he do?

“Nothing, I just came to ask.” Mu Tong threw the silver at the male. “Take the silver and ind a thin cof in for the woman to have a burial.

This is the grace of Wang Fei.” That little widow could not use the silver. It would be better to buy some incense and money, so that she would have money to spend underground, so that she could reincarnate as a person who had eyes.

“This small one will remember. Chief Steward Mu, do not worry. This small one will de initely accomplish this.” The male smiled as he took the silver. When he heard the words “Wang Fei,” his expression became even more serious.

Mu Tong waved his hand. He did not want to stay in this dim room. He sighed after coming out. This woman was really unfortunate to have used such a method to get close to Wang Ye. The concubines the old wang ye had in the past had also used these tricks. Could Wang Ye have good feelings towards women like this?

Not to mention just how suspicious Wang Ye was in personality. With an investigation, they found Sheng Junwang Fu. It would have been a wonder if the woman had made it out alive.

He knew that Sheng Junwang had ambitions, but he hadn’t thought the other would use tricks like this. There wasn’t any difference with the tricks the Crown Prince had used. However, the former was better concealed and the latter too obvious. If the two were compared, no one was more noble than the other. Even his own wang ye had done the same in the past.

It was because power was just so tempting. Who cared what methods they used? What was most important was who could get the fruit of victory.

The matter of the robe was lightly put down like this. After Yan Jin Qiu came from court, Hua Xi Wan did not mention this matter to him, and he did not ask about this. After the two used the noon meal, they changed into clothing for the palace banquet and then got onto the carriage of the wang fu.

When qinwang and qinwang fei went out, they had to have processions that were appropriate for their identity. So when the carriage the two of them sat in passed through, the people on the side of the street separated and moved to the side.

Picking up a corner of the window curtain, Hua Xi Wan looked at the scattering people. She thought that this was the seductiveness of power. Everyone else was respectfully retreating, and she was still sitting high up in the center.

On the road, there were carriages from other families, but after seeing them appear, they all moved aside and showed respect.

Hua Xi Wan suddenly recalled how she had avoided Princess Rui He’s carriage at this place. “I remember about a month before our marriage, I had stopped here to avoid and let Princess Rui He’s carriage pass. I heard that at the time, Princess Rui He and the other womenfolk were

coming back from riding and sightseeing. It was a pity that I was sitting inside the carriage and could not see what it was like outside.”

“I will take you next year,” Yan Jin Qiu said. “There is a stable in the Jing suburbs, and the scenery is pretty good.”

Hua Xi Wan thought of how riding a horse would rub her legs, so she shook her head. “I’m just thinking—let’s not.” This bad habit of not wanting to move while the thoughts were far away had a common name called laziness. She guessed that she probably did not have any hope of rehabilitation in this life.

After the carriage entered the palace, the two got off and walked towards the Empress Dowager’s Fu Shou Palace. They gave to the Empress Dowager the gifts they had prepared and started to chat with her.

Because the Empress Dowager was someone who liked good looks, she was exceptionally happy whenever Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan appeared. What she had to do each time was examine the two from top to bottom and check that their good looks had not slid down before she would contentedly have them drink tea and eat refreshments.

After the three chatted for a while, Sheng Junwang and his wife also came. After a round of courtesies, they also sat down.

It might have been Hua Xi Wan’s feeling, but she kept on feeling that Hou shi‘s complexion was not right. After hesitating for a while, she said, “Tangsao‘s complexion seems slightly pale—are you well?”

“Tang Dimei, thank you for your concern.” Hou shi‘s smile was exceptionally sweet. She covered her mouth with a handkerchief and said, “My appetite has not been good recently, so I have eaten less. The Grand Doctor has come today to take my pulse. He said for me to spend less effort and just take care of the child.”

“So you are pregnant. This is a very good matter—congratulations.” Hua Xi Wan’s smile grew and then she said, “Tang Sao, you are not kind. You actually did not tell us about such a good matter.”

“Originally, I wanted to send someone to tell you all, but when I thought that I was entering the palace in the afternoon, I waited to enter the palace and tell everyone personally. This is our sincerity.” Hou shi‘s eyes were illed with joy and softness.

When Hua Xi Wan saw her state, she knew the other was anticipating the arrival of the child. She put down the strangeness that she felt. Hou shiwas just a few months older than her, and just seventeen now, but she was already pregnant. She wondered if Hou shi would suffer when she gave birth.

“It is good to have a child.” The Empress Dowager smiled and gave a few words out of concern for Hou shi to keep a calm heart. However,

because the Empress Dowager did not have a child, she was exceptionally careful when she spoke.

“Speaking of this, you two have been married for quite a few months. When will news of joy come from you?” After the Empress Dowager had a while to be happy, she threw the problem in front of Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu.

Hua Xi Wan did not know what to say to such a question. However, Yan Jin Qiu took up the topic. “Imperial Grandmother, Wang Fei is still young. I was thinking about waiting until she is eighteen before considering having a child. This is bene icial for her body.”

Hearing this, the Empress Dowager nodded. “You have considered well. Giving birth for a woman is like having a foot in Death’s door. It is good to take more care.” She calculated Hua Xi Wan’s present age and said with slight regret, “Even though waiting for two years is slightly long, it is better to be safer; this is good.”

Hua Xi Wan looked in slight speechlessness at Yan Jin Qiu and the Empress Dowager. Wasn’t it unkind to say such words when Sheng Junwang Fei had just gotten pregnant?

Thinking about this, she turned to glance at Yan Bo Yi. She found that his expression was as normal as though the one who was pregnant was not his wife.

Hua Xi Wan rubbed her nose. It would be so worrisome to marry such a man. This conduct was just asking for a beating.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 王 wang: short for qinwang or irst-rank prince; also called wang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a (qin)wang or prince

通房 tongfang: the lowest rank of concubine 郡王爷 junwang ye: His [Your] Royal Highness 堂嫂 tang sao: father’s brother’s (older) son’s wife 府 fu: compound or estate 太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 嫡 di: child born of the of icial wife, not of a concubine

亲王妃 qinwang fei: the of icial wife of a qinwang ##

Chapter Forty-Three: Showing Love

Hou shi seemed not to care about what the Empress Dowager had said. She said with a smile, “Imperial Grandmother, I think that with Xian Wang Ye‘s love toward Xian Wang Fei, he would not bear for her to feel any hardship.”

“This is good, this is good.” The Empress Dowager looked at Yan Jin Qiu with a smile. “In their entire life, women just want to have good days. If the husband gives more love and care, that is right.”

Hou shi lowered her face, her smile still the same. “Imperial Grandmother is right.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at Hou shi and looked at the Empress Dowager whose face was crinkled in a smile. She learned a new skill—namely, to remain unchanging when encountering all changes. No matter what moves you have, I will not move. This was the best plan.

She felt that there were many things she had to learn. Even now, she could not grasp the moves of the Empress Dowager who was like a thousand year old fox. This one would not play according to rationality and would occasionally give sneak attacks that people could not guard against.

She only hoped that this person’s like for Yan Jin Qiu was true. Otherwise, if she was tripped up, she wouldn’t even know how she was tripped up.

Yan Jin Qiu smiled at the Empress Dowager. When Hua Xi Wan wasn’t paying attention, he pinched her inger and Hua Xi Wan glared at him.

The Empress Dowager noticed their little movements and said with a smile, “Seeing you juniors have good relationships, I, this old woman, feel happy inside.”

Hou shi had a smile on her face as she turned to look at Yan Bo Yi beside her. Her heart suddenly felt empty. People were probably like this. She had clearly been very satis ied before that he only had two tongfang and no other women. Compared to the other people of the Imperial Family, he was unusually considerate. But now that she saw Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu in great harmony, and Yan Jin Qiu being so considerate to Hua Xi Wan and not having any other woman, she felt that she still hadn’t gotten enough. It would be wonderful if Junwang Ye could be as considerate as Xian Wang.

“Tang Sao?” Hua Xi Wan saw that Hou shi was wandering off in her thoughts and called her in a light voice. “Imperial Grandmother is asking you what you recently like to eat.”

“Imperial Grandmother, grandson-wife does not have any preferences, and likes eating sweet, sour and spicy.” Hou shi smiled gratefully at Hua Xi Wan and then said, “Like today, I like eating sour, and tomorrow spicy. Even I do not know what is going on with my tastes.”

“It is good fortune to be able to eat. Now that you are pregnant, you are eating for two. If you couldn’t eat, wouldn’t your body collapse?” The Empress Dowager had not had a child but she had seen many pregnant women in the palace, so she knew a lot about what to pay attention to during pregnancy. After she told all this to Hou shi, she said, “The irst child of a woman is very important and you have to hold it. As long as you can give birth to your irst child, the other children will come quickly and smoothly like dumplings into a pot, one after the next. If you cannot keep your ist, you won’t just harm your body, you will have routine miscarriages. At that time, nothing can be done even if you cry. ”

“Grandson-wife will remember Imperial Grandmother’s words.” Hou shi had just discovered that she was pregnant and had not asked yet about many things. Hearing the Empress Dowager say this, she instantly became nervous and her hand unconsciously moved to her belly.

Hua Xi Wan saw her nervous state and sighed inside on her behalf. Even though she had not interacted many times with Hou shi, she knew that Hou shi was an extremely intelligent woman who did not lack in appearance, skill, posture and body. If she was a man, she would take

very good care of a woman like this because if you were good to her, she would be good to you in a manner where she would cut out her heart for you.

It was a pity that such a considerate woman had married into the Imperial House and encountered a block of wood that did not have emotions. Maybe she was the kind of woman who Yan Jin Qiu needed, and what Hou shi needed was a man like Yan Jin Qiu.

Thinking about this, Hua Xi Wan turned to look at Yan Jin Qiu and shook her head. However, who they encountered was Qi Long Emperor who was a muddled matchmaker. It was such a pity.

Yan Jin Qiu was puzzled by Hua Xi Wan’s gaze. Just as he was preparing to ask, he saw her turn her head away. Because there were other people present, he could only touch his nose and prepare to ask when they returned to the fu.

The Mid-Autumn Banquet was about to start. The two couples came out of the Empress Dowager’s Fu Shou Palace and moved towards the banquet venue.

Hua Xi Wan helped support Hou shi and did not walk quickly. The two laughed and chatted along the way, and outsiders who thought the two fuwere not on good terms were puzzled. Didn’t they say that the two fu were at odds? Why did it look as though they had a very good relationship?

No matter if they really had a good relationship or if they were acting, the two families appeared very harmonious. As to whether or not the relationship was truly good, that had nothing to do with them. In any case, while these people fought, they, the idle members of the Imperial House, would watch the spectacle.

This year’s Mid-Autumn Banquet was about the same as any other year. There was nothing new. At most, the musicians were changed, the dancers were changed, but the people sitting were still the same people, and the proceedings were still the same. Everyone would latter each other and then shout that the Emperor was wise. As to anything else… what else could occur at a banquet like this?

Just as everyone was waiting in boredom for the Mid-Autumn Banquet to end, a little something unexpected occurred. Qi Long Emperor saw that a dancer’s Cold Palace Dance was very beautiful and took her into his inner palace.

When the Emperor gave the order to take the dancer into the inner palace, the Empress still had a digni ied smile on her face. Even her hand that was holding the wine cup did not quiver at all, as though this man who was attracted to other women was not her husband. She seemed like a grand decoration, good to look at but without emotion.

Hua Xi Wan felt slightly suffocated, so she turned her eyes to not look at the most noble male and female in the Great Zhao, and started to sip the fragrant laurel blossom wine.

The light singing of the singer was like a gust of wind that tickled people’s hearts, but they could not seem to touch it. When she walked out of the suffocating great hall and stood on the tall balcony made from white jade, there was a round moon hanging on the horizon that was unspeakably cool and clear.

The wind rose and carried a burst of coolness. She went forward a few steps and held onto the white jade handrail. She looked at the guards on the two sides of the stairs dressed in armor. She sighed. She had been here for sixteen years. From childhood, she learned the manners and education of a prestigious miss, and many of her habits from her previous life had been ground away. But deep inside, she still remembered that women could resist, could kick aside a man who could not control the lower half of his body, could live more freely.

In this prosperous Great Zhao Dynasty, the respective status of man and woman was close to the Tang Dynasty, but for women, there were too many things that they had to learn helplessness from. Just like the Empress. She was the most noble woman in the world, but she could not live freely.

“Ha.” She rubbed her forehead and felt that she was becoming emotional after drinking a few cups of wine. She forgot a saying—you cannot understand what makes someone else happy. It was not a virtue to judge others based on one’s own standards.

There were occasionally patrols of guards, taijian and female palace attendants who passed by in the night. They only left behind a thread of light with their lanterns before disappearing into the darkness.

“Why are you standing here—is it too suffocating inside?” A thin cloak was put onto Hua Xi Wan’s body, and then a pair of warm hands appeared in front of her to tie the strings for her.

Hua Xi Wan turned around and brushed against Yan Jin Qiu’s face. She tilted her head back to look at him and then tied the strings herself. She asked with a shallow smile, “How come you came out?”

“The banquet is about to be inished. I was worried for you and came out to look.” Yan Jin Qiu grasped Hua Xi Wan’s hand. “Let’s go in.”

Hua Xi Wan obeyed and followed behind him. Just before she stepped through the doors, she turned back and looked at the clear moon. It was like a devastating beauty that was high up and unobtainable.

“Later, we will return and admire the moon together,” Yan Jin Qiu whispered by her ear. “Right now, we need to irst greet Emperor and Empress.”

Hua Xi Wan showed a smile. She did not speak and just walked forward inside.

In the eyes of other people, their movements showed the love between husband and wife. The man was handsome and the female was beautiful; it was pleasing to see.

“It is very nice to the eyes to have the two together. No wonder the Empress Dowager is partial to them,” Xu Wang said in a light voice by Xu Wang Fei‘s ear. “Don’t you think so?”

Xu Wang Fei glanced at him and took away the wine cup in his hand. “Wang Ye, your eyesight is bad in your old age; do not drink so much.” This was their nephew and niece-in-law. Could he say such things?

Xu Wang coughed dryly and looked yearningly at the wine cup that Xu Wang Fei had stolen. Then he turned to look at the Xian couple. After observing for a while, he suddenly said mysteriously, “Who do you think that Xian Wang Fei‘s mouth looks similar to?”

Xu Wang Fei was so angry she pinched him. “Stop talking!” The day the two married and Yan Jin Qiu had lifted the veil, she could see that when this di miss of the marquis fu smiled, she looked very similar to the deceased Xian Qinwang Fei. But could they say that?

“Hey hey, don’t be angry.” Xu Wang rubbed where he was pinched. “I’m just talking about this to you, not anyone else.”

“In the future, you do not need to speak of this to me as well.” Xu Wang Fei glanced at Xu Wang. “I am old, my mind is not good. I do not like hearing such baseless things.”

Xu Wang: “…”

An old person would have such strength in the pinch—she really had the metal bone claws that were spoken of in the novels. It only hurt but did not wound.

“What is it?” Yan Bo Yi saw Hou shi suddenly stop in her action of drinking soup, and his brow creased. “Is the soup not to your appetite?”

“No,” Hou shi said with a smile, “the soup is very good. You should have a taste.”

“En.” Yan Bo Yi raised the bowl to have a taste. Just as he put it down, he saw Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan walk in together hand-in-hand. Looking at the two hands clasped together, Yan Bo Yi’s brow creased again. It really was too frivolous.

When the “frivolous” Yan Jin Qiu passed by Yan Bo Yi, the other smiled and gave a greeting. Then the pair sat down together, and their intimate state was something that people envied.

Hou shi‘s hand was white from where she gripped the soup spoon. A moment later, she said with a smile, “Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei have such good love.”

Yan Bo Yi made a sound of acknowledgement with cold eyes. He clearly was not interested in this topic. In his mind, Hua Xi Wan was an evil woman.

A woman of the inner compound could take someone’s life because the other woman had sewn up the sleeve of her husband. No matter how beautiful she was, that was just the outer appearance.

He felt slight pain at losing such a well-trained spy, but seeing Yan Jin Qiu marry such a woman, he was happy to see it. If his wife was not virtuous, his family would not be peaceful.

It was most likely that Lu Zhu who was killed in the past by the manservant of the Crown Prince Fu was also a victim of this Xian Wang Fei. Otherwise, how could there have been so many coincidences? It was a pity that the manservant of the Crown Prince Fu was unfortunate that when he was blinded by lust, he did not see who the other was.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

府 fu: compound or estate; wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 王 wang: short for qinwang or irst-rank prince; also called wang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

郡王 junwang: second-rank prince; also referred to as junwang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

##

Chapter Forty-Four: Accident

“Clang, clang, clang.”

Sitting inside the carriage, Hua Xi Wan heard the faint sound marking the time. She raised a corner of the window curtain and found that a thin layer of mist had risen outside. Her brow creased—why would there be mist with the present weather?

When she had been in the palace, she had seen the moon hanging in the sky. That had been just an hour ago. The weather had changed so quickly?

She looked closely and found that it was not mist, but thin drizzles of rain. Because the streets were slightly dim, it appeared as though it was mist.

“It is raining?” Yan Jin Qiu sitting beside her also raised the curtain to take a look. His voice carried slight regret. “We will not be able to admire the moon then.”

Hua Xi Wan put down the curtain and smiled at him. “We can admire the moon at any time—why do we have to stick to one speci ic day?”

“Is Xi Wan always so easy-going?” Yan Jin Qiu looked at her, his eyes illed with a seriousness that Hua Xi Wan could not understand. “Not caring about anything, able to accept any matter?”

“Those with open minds live happier. Life is hard and short—why struggle with oneself?” Hua Xi Wan’s smile did not change as she turned to look at the jade gourd hanging on the carriage. “Those who want more, if they cannot get it, wouldn’t they feel disappointed?”

“But if they encounter something they like and do not ight to get it, how would they know that it does not belong to them?” Yan Jin Qiu watched as the rain grew heavier. “At least by trying, one will not regret.”

“Who says that after trying, one would not regret?” Hua Xi Wan gripped the jade gourd. “There are many people who regret their obsession.”

“But there are also those who regret not having tried.” Hua Xi Wan put down the curtain and smiled.

“It depends on their perspective.” Hua Xi Wan smiled disdainfully. “Also, those who regret are those who have failed. If one is living happily, when would they have the time to think about the things they did not get?”

Yan Jin Qiu was silent for a moment and then smiled neutrally.

A sharp scream came from deep within the street and seemed exceptionally shocking on this silent street. If it wasn’t that Xian Wang Fu‘s procession had enough young guardsmen, some of the servant girls would have fallen in fright.

Hua Xi Wan’s brow creased. This was not something like a television drama from her previous life when males and females could roam around the streets at night. Here, there was a nightly curfew. If people without permission were walking on the street, they would be sent to jail as robbers or traitors to the crown.

Now a scream that came so suddenly, was it a coincidence or something else?

This scream clearly did not affect the advancement of Xian Wang Fu‘s procession. The group still moved forward at normal speed. Just as the carriage was about to turn, an even greater scream came from the street. This time, it was even scarier than before, and caused people to feel cold from their bones.

Just at this time, a burst of footsteps came from nearby along with the sounds of armor and weaponry clanging together. A while later, Hua Xi Wan heard a voice that was slightly familiar.

“Junior of icial of the Guard Of ice, Zhang Hou, greets Your Highness Xian Wang.”

Zhang Hou looked at the carriage that had stopped and released a breath inside. Then he saw the curtain in the front being raised a third of the way and just showing Xian Wang‘s igure. He blinked his eyes and accidentally saw a corner of a red robe appear beside Xian Wang.

“Junior Of icial Zhang, is there a matter?” There was a thread of a smile at Yan Jin Qiu’s lips as he examined this young Guard Of icial. Those who managed to get to such a position would not be simple people. Otherwise, it would not be him sitting in the position of Guard Of ice Young Of icial.

“Wang Ye, this small one heard the scream of a female nearby and therefore came with people to patrol.” Zhang Hou’s face was covered with a layer of mist, and it was uncomfortably sticky. However, he did

not dare to wipe his face in front of Yan Jin Qiu. “This one had not expected to collide with Wang Ye‘s carriage.”

“Junior Of icial Zhang is too serious. You are thinking of the safety of our Jing. But it really is strange for a woman to scream in the night.” Yan Jin Qiu’s lips curled. “Junior Of icial Zhang, please pay more attention.”

“Wang Ye, many thanks for the reminder.” When Zhao Hou raised his head, the carriage curtain had been put down. After he bowed to the carriage, he left with his subordinates and started to search the side streets one by one.

“Zhang Hou is a young person, but he has his own ways of doing things. His position does not look high in rank, but many things in Jing are connected to him. Most people in Jing would give him some face.” Yan Jin Qiu said to Hua Xi Wan, “I heard that when your horse was alarmed that time, it was him who came with people to control that?”

Hua Xi Wan nodded and said, “This Junior Of icial Zhang is skilled.”

Before the carriage reached the gates of Xian Wang Fu, they heard people come to report that Junior Of icial Zhang had found the person who had screamed. However, the victim was covered with wounds, unconscious, and had been sent to a doctor to be treated.

Hua Xi Wan’s brow creased. No one would like something like this happening. She couldn’t help but ask, “Have you found the identities of

the victims?”

The person reporting from outside hesitated before saying, “The two girls are people from the Quiet Harmony Room.”

“Quiet Harmony Room?” Hua Xi Wan was puzzled. This name seemed pretty elegant but she did not know what it meant.

“Go down—who allowed you to say the name of such an unclean place?” Mu Tong scolded sternly.

Hua Xi Wan inally realized—so it was people from the red-light district. With such an elegant name, she had thought that it would be something like a bookstore or a weiqi salon.

Seeing the expression on her face change, yet not have any disdain when the women of the red-light district were mentioned, Yan Jin Qiu said in surprise, “What does Xi Wan think of this?”

“Not much.” Hua Xi Wan shook her head. “The one investigating the case will be the Great Judicial Of ice. I do not even know the cause and effect of this, what can I think?”

“I mean… what opinion do you have about the two women?”

“You should not ask this question; it is not appropriate.” Hua Xi Wan’s tone was stern and then it became warm: “However, it is all right for husband and wife to speak in private about these private things that cannot be spoken of in public.” She yawned. She had drunk a few cups of wine at the banquet and now felt slightly drowsy. “If there is no demand, there is no market—that is my opinion.”

Yan Jin Qiu irst stilled. When he managed to react, he smiled helplessly. He wanted to say that this was not reasonable, but when he actually thought about it, he found that what Hua Xi Wan had said was true. If the men in the world could control themselves, where would there be women to do this lesh business?

The carriage still went forward for a while before stopping. Hua Xi Wan heard the servant outside say that they had arrived at the Wang Fu. She raised the curtain to look. There were two soft sedans already waiting by the door, and servants with umbrellas.

When she and Yan Jin Qiu just put one step out of the carriage, servants came to put umbrellas over their heads and block off the wind. When she sat in the sedan, there wasn’t a thread of rain that had touched her.

Zhang Hou waited outside the doctor’s rooms that night. He managed to make it to morning and heard his subordinate report that one of the women had been wounded too heavily and passed away. After hearing this, his expression was not very good. A moment later, he said, “I know. Have someone report this to the Judicial Of ice.”

His people of the Guard Of ice were only responsible for patrolling. If a case involving a life occurred, they could only transfer it to the Judicial Of ice or the Ministry of Justice to investigate. They did not have the power to interfere in this matter.

“Then should we also move the things we found next to the victims to the Judicial Of ice?” A subordinate came over with a piece of cloth. On the cloth was a piece of cloth stained with blood and a black precious stone.

“What are we keeping it for?” Zhang Hou’s gaze swept across the torn piece of cloth. “Right now, Sheng Junwang is in charge of the Judicial Of ice. With Junwang Ye present, which case cannot be solved?”

When the people present recalled how Sheng Junwang had been responsible for the case of Master Zhang, their emotions became complex. In the beginning, the matter had been related to the Crown Prince and caused the people in Jing to feel fear. Even now, people were still afraid they would be pulled in.

Four hours later, the Judicial Of ice received the case from the Guard Of ice. They had very bad luck. An hour ago, the other victim could not be saved and died from the grave injuries.

Both victims were dead. It was even more dif icult to ind clues from dead people. But they had to investigate as this matter had spread. Some people who did not know what had happened started to spread

rumors that this was the work of demons and spirits. If they did not get to the bottom of this, who knew what would happen in Jing.

The Judicial Of ice Justice felt even more complicated because he found the evidence that the Guard Of ice had transferred over was very troublesome. He watched Sheng Junwang who was sitting at the front and did not dare to breathe.

Yan Bo Yi’s expression was ugly as well. Someone who was investigating a case and then discovered that something of their own was the evidence by the victim’s body would not be in a good mood.

“Since this matter is related to me, I will not participate in this matter.” Yan Bo Yi stood and did not look at the evidence of the case. “I will report this to the Emperor. Of icial, please do not object.”

What could the justice say? He could only sweat and smile.

Yan Bo Yi was not in the mood to look at his expression. He walked out of the Judicial Of ice and thought inside, who was using such crude tricks to slander him?

“Checkmate!”

Hua Xi Wan clapped her hands with a smile. “I won this match.”

Yan Jin Qiu looked at the board that they had played on, the terrible state it was in, and smiled helplessly. He had the servant take the board away and then said, “These few days, the people in Jing are afraid. Pay attention and do not be in luenced by the rumors outside.”

Hua Xi Wan thought carelessly, she had heard the screams that night. It would be strange if she really believed the rumors.

In any case, no matter how the matter developed, it had nothing to do with her. Why would she concern herself with something that had nothing to do with her?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

郡⻢ junma: the husband of a junzhu 府 fu: compound or estate; wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 郡主 junzhu: titled daughter of a qinwang ( irst-rank prince) 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince 丈 zhang: measure of length, 10 Chinese feet (3.3 m) 王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a wang or prince 王 wang: short for qinwang or irst-rank prince; also called wang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

姐姐 jiejie: elder sister Chapter Forty-Five: Assassination

The people in Jing felt unsafe after a case like this occurred. Every day, before it was curfew, there were not many people on the streets. It was much quieter than usual

“Junma, the rain is getting heavy. Should we ind a place to rest?” Outside the carriage, a manservant wiped the water from his face and swore at the heavens. It had been raining for a few days, and they inally had waited for a clear day to go out. Who knew that on the way back, it started to rain. It seemed that the rain was going to get heavier. He was so unlucky.

“Not necessary.” Luo Zhong Zheng raised the curtain to look outside, “It is almost curfew. We should return to the fu as soon as possible, otherwise Junzhu will worry.”

“Yes.” The manservant did not dare to speak more and indicated to the carriage driver to drive faster in order to avoid being rained on more when the rain increased. There was no problem if they were rained on, but if Junma became ill, they would be punished when they returned to the junzhu fu.

Luo Zhong Zheng felt very restless inside. He felt very uncertain after the words the Crown Prince had said. In terms of personality, he actually admired Sheng Junwang more, but the Crown Prince was the legitimate heir. He was someone loyal to the monarchy and was naturally on the Crown Prince’s side.

But he had not thought that Junzhu…

The carriage suddenly shook violently. Luo Zhong Zheng’s brow creased as he said, “What is happening?”

No one answered outside, and he instantly felt that something was not well. He raised the curtain to look and immediately changed expression. He found that the guards and manservants that he had taken with him were all spread out on the ground in silence; the ground was dyed red.

Before he could breathe, he glimpsed a silver light lash in front of his eyes. His throat felt cold and itchy. When he wanted to open his mouth and shout, his vision turned dark.

The leader looked at the grandly dressed man who dropped out of the carriage. The heavy rain washed away the blood coming out of his body and added a deathly aura.

“Bam!”

“Leader, there’s no one left alive.”

“Scatter.”

The rain was getting heavier and gradually washed away all footsteps. No one would expect that right under the eyes of the Heavenly Son, on a street of Jing, such a case would occur.

“What? Lin Ping Junma was attacked last night just a few dozen zhang from his fu?!” Hua Xi Wan almost shattered the teacup in her hand. She did not even care about the water that splashed onto her hand. “Is he still alive?”

“Mistress, be careful.” Bai Xia hurried to wipe the water from her hand. Fortunately, the tea was not very hot, otherwise, it would not be good if it burned Mistress. She reached out to take the teacup in Hua Xi Wan’s hand and said in a light voice, “This servant heard that Lin Ping Junzhu Fuhas already put up white banners.”

Hua Xi Wan was slightly surprised. She recalled how Lin Ping Junzhu had not cared for anything in order to marry this man. Now that the man was gone, leaving behind Lin Ping Junzhu and two children. This was not a good matter.

At this time, servants came in with several boxes. Hong Ying inspected them and said with a frown, “Who put in these night pearls? Mistress does not like these things; it is not permitted to have them in the yard from now on.”

“This small one will remember.” The servant who was holding the box of night pearls carefully closed the box with regret. In the eyes of Wang Fei, these night pearls that were worth a thousand taels of gold were

like dirt. It was a pity that Wang Ye had sent them with love and did not expect that Wang Fei would not like these objects.

Hua Xi Wan listened to the servant girls inventory what Yan Jin Qiu had people deliver. The little bit of sadness she had felt before dissipated gradually. She even thought that no matter how terrible the relationship between Lin Ping Junzhu and Xian Wang Fu was, at least the blood of the Yan Clan lowed through her. If she wanted to ind some compatible men and have them live in the fu, no one would dare to say anything as long as the men were not forced to do so.

A short while later, Yan Jin Qiu hurriedly came in. Seeing Hua Xi Wan in a daze while staring out the window, he walked over to sit next to her. “What is it?”

Hua Xi Wan shook her head and said, “Nothing, I just heard what happened last night and feel slightly uncomfortable.”

Yan Jin Qiu rubbed her palm and did not speak.

Seeing him act like this, Hua Xi Wan hesitated for a moment before saying, “Now that she does not have the junma, Lin Ping Junzhu and the two children will not be able to recover quickly. How about…”

“Your health has recovered just in the last few years—you cannot go to a place like the mourning hall which is full of negative energy.” Yan Jin Qiu shook his head and directly refuted what Hua Xi Wan had not yet

said. “Luo Zhong Zheng is a relative of the Imperial Family, and there will be of icials from the Ministry of Rites who will be responsible for his funeral. You do not need to worry.”

Hua Xi Wan could hear the indifference in his words and did not mention the matter again. There were close and distant relationships between people. While there was a layer of smoke between her and Yan Jin Qiu, it had to be said that other than her family, he was the person closest to her.

“Just now, I heard the servant say that you do not like the night pearls?” Yan Jin Qiu did not understand why Hua Xi Wan disliked the night pearls so he asked directly, “What do you like—I will have them ind it.”

“The storages almost cannot contain what you have given me.” Hua Xi Wan smiled. “I just saw from old book that night pearls will disrupt the thoughts of people and should not be placed in the room.”

“So that is how it is.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled and carried her to sit on his knee. “If you don’t like it, don’t like it. In the future, if there is anything else good, I will have them deliver it.”

Plying people with expensive objects was a move that had a long history and never went out of fashion.

When the two inished their activity on the bed, Hua Xi Wan thought in a daze: how had they come onto the bed?

The assassination of Luo Zhong Zheng was like throwing a bomb into the water of Jing. All the of icials felt unsafe. Even a junma was assassinated—what about them?

Qilong Emperor was probably the angriest person. He was the Heavenly Son, yet someone had assassinated a relative of the Imperial Family under his eyes, and did it right next to Lin Ping JunzhuFu. That was akin to not thinking anything of him! No one dared to directly face the anger of the Heavenly Son, so the entire city was ordered to be completely searched. The public safety of Jing instantly became much better. Even the thieves and hoodlums stopped plying their professions. Right now, the scrutiny was very tight, and they did not want to become the people on whom the anger was vented.

Lin Ping Junzhu did not have any attention to spare for what the people outside were thinking. She had been crying all of these days in the mourning hall, and did not even have the attention to spare for her two children.

She could not believe that this man who had lain with her for so many years had left like this, and the place where he was killed was so close to the junzhu fu. If… if he just went a bit more, he would have gotten home—why was it like this?

“Jing, Jing.” She stumbled to the doorway and looked in the direction of the Imperial Palace. She suddenly laughed so hard that tears were squeezed out of her eyes. “I was wrong, I was wrong.”

She shouldn’t have agreed with the junma to come back to Jing. She had been wrong from the start. When their minds had been tempted by the secret decree of the Emperor, it was fated that they would walk on a path illed with scheming and darkness.

“Zhong Zheng.” Lin Ping Junzhu covered her face and her tears lowed. Her mind was full of scenes of her interacting with Luo Zhong Zheng. Luo Zhong Zheng was not a detail-oriented man, but at the very least, they had treated each other respectfully like a guest all these years and never had disagreements. If they did not come to Jing, she and Luo Zhong Jin would still be the most noble couple in Jiang City. Which of the noble and rich there would not give them face?

While they had come to Jing and although she was a junzhu, because she had left behind the support of Xian Wang Fu, her junzhu position was an empty one. In Jing which was full of nobility, what could her empty junzhu position count for?

The Of ice of Astronomy calculated the date of the burial from Luo Zhong Zheng’s birth time. The day of the burial, many people set up altars along the path to the burial site. Xian Wang Fu was not an exception.

Hua Xi Wan even personally went to Junzhu Fu. When she arrived, many people had gotten there already. When they saw her appear and then exchanged bows of greeting, Hua Xi Wan stood at the place closest to Lin Ping Junzhu.

No matter how cold the relationship between Lin Ping Junzhu and Xian Wang Fu was, on the surface, they had the closest of relationships. No matter how it was like in private, in such a public setting, they had to act out a good atmosphere.

Because she had cried so much, Lin Ping Junzhu appeared very fragile and her gaze was slightly wooden. When she saw Hua Xi Wan, she only exchanged a few words of courtesy and there was none of the deliberate negativity of the past.

“Please end your grief.” Hua Xi Wan felt that this was the most useless phrase to say to someone after a death, but in a setting like this, she could only say useless things like this.

“Thanks.” Lin Ping Junzhu‘s eyes were bloodshot. She looked at Hua Xi Wan for a beat before reacting and saying, “Please have a seat.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled, went in front of Luo Zhong Zheng’s cof in to bow, and then retreated to one side without a word.

There were many guests who came, but when they saw Lin Ping Junzhu‘s state, no one spoke. They only gave a few words of comfort before inding places to sit or stand. In any case, they tried to stay silent if they could.

When it was time for the cof in to be moved, Lin Ping Junzhu started to cry again. This caused the womenfolk who did not like her to feel some pity. So young and widowed, moreover with the husband dying in such a violent and unfathomable way, anyone would feel grief.

The burial procession came out of JunzhuFu, and at each altar set up along the street, there was a mourner there. Paper cash and coins were thrown over the entire street, and it really seemed quite tragic.

“Xian Wang Fu pays respects to Lin Ping Junma‘s soul.”

“Cry!”

Wearing white, Lin Ping Junzhu stopped and looked at the altar set up next to her. This altar was much higher than the other ones and seemed more weighty. But in reality, it just had a few more objects.

She dazedly turned her gaze away and walked forward. In front of her was the sound of other people crying. She touched her dry eyes. There were no more tears to shed.

She thought back to the time when her younger brother had carried her out onto the marriage sedan. She had been carried on his shoulders and heard him ask her, “Jiejie, will you regret this?”

She remembered that she had returned a resolute no.

Even now, she did not know if she regretted it. The person was already gone. Other than to reminisce about his good qualities, she could not remember his bad ones.

She probably did not regret it.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

府 fu: compound or estate; wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 郡主 junzhu: titled daughter of a qinwang ( irst-rank prince) 姐 jie or 姐姐 jiejie: elder sister 王 wang: short for qinwang or irst-rank prince; also called wang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a wang or prince 妹妹 meimei: younger sister 太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 公公 gonggong: how to refer to a taijian 郡⻢ junma: the husband of a junzhu

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Chapter Forty-Six: Change in Opinion

When Hua Xi Wan returned to the wang fu, she recalled the children in Lin Ping Junzhu Fu and felt slightly uncomfortable. She did not like Lin Ping Junzhu, but she had different opinions about the children.

“Bai Xia, prepare some plentiful gifts and send them to the junzhu fu.” Hua Xi Wan felt as though her heart was suffocating. “Children are innocent.”

“Yes.” Bai Xia detected that her mistress’ expression was not right and did not ask many questions. She turned and prepared to ind gifts for children.

“Bai Xia Jie.” Hong Ying met Bai Xia as she came down the corridor with tea and refreshments. Seeing the other have a serious expression, she asked worriedly, “What happened?”

“Nothing.” Bai Xia smiled faintly and shook her head. She then said in a low voice, “Mistress might not be in a good mood; serve her carefully.” She did not understand what was going on, but it de initely had something to do with Lin Ping Junzhu Fu.

“Don’t worry, Wang Ye returned to the fu just now. I heard Chief Steward Mu say that his expression is well.” Hong Ying whispered next to Bai Xia’s ear, “Maybe he will come shortly.”

Bai Xia glared at her. “Do not speak nonsense.” Seeing Hong Ying’s expression become moderate, she said, “Did you forget the example of Lu Zhu?”

“I don’t have the kind of thoughts that she did,” Hong Ying muttered, but her expression became serious. As a servant, no matter how much face they had, it was given to them by their master. If their master did not have face, what bene it would they get?

Just as the two inished speaking, they saw Wang Ye walking in this direction. They hurriedly moved to the side, bowed their heads and curtsied.

Yan Jin Qiu strode past them into the room. When he entered, he saw that Hua Xi Wan’s expression was dim. He walked next to her and asked in a light voice, “What is it?”

“I do not feel good thinking about Lin Ping Junzhu‘s two children.” Hua Xi Wan forced a smile. With their present relationship, if she and Yan Jin Qiu had children in the future, she didn’t know how much hardship her children would experience. If she could not give the children a good environment, it was better not to have them.

“So that is what it is. Those two have nursemaids and servants to take care of them. In their education, they will have teachers or etiquette mistresses. Who would dare to neglect them?” Yan Jin Qiu was not concerned because he had grown up in this way. “If you are worried, you can just prepare some things that children use and send them over.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan nodded. She saw that there were faint shadows under his eyes and pressed her ingers to the corner of his eye. “Did you now rest well last night?” Last night, Yan Jin Qiu had rested in the study, so Hua Xi Wan did not know when he went to sleep. However, seeing Yan Jin Qiu not react at all and allowing her to touch the corner of his eye, Hua Xi Wan had complicated feelings. Normal people would unconsciously put a hand up when other people came near their eyes. Yan Jin Qiu’s response meant that either he really thought of her as someone close, or that he was able to act at such a high level.

Yan Jin Qiu gripped her hand and pressed it to the side of his face. He laughed soundlessly and said, “Nothing, there were some matters last night, so I slept later.” Finishing, he looked pleadingly at Hua Xi Wan. “It is not comfortable sleeping in the study.”

Seeing this, Hua Xi Wan reached out with her other hand to pat his head. “Then I will have the servants put down a softer mattress.”

Seeing her act dumb, Yan Jin Qiu gathered her up in his arms. “No, even the softest mattress is not as comfortable as where you sleep.”

Hua Xi Wan poked his face. “Do not pout.”

Yan Jin Qiu’s head nuzzled Hua Xi Wan’s shoulder. Hua Xi Wan could only helplessly pat his back.

The common saying was that a great man could submit or stand tall as needed. This was probably how the man in her arms was acting.

The servants in the room lowered their heads and closed their eyes. They chose to not look at Wang Ye pouting at Wang Fei. In reality, they could not bear to even look at this. What happened to the wang ye who was warm, elegant and poised?

As expected, in front of beauty, even a man as hard as steel would be wrapped around the ingers of the beauty.

Hong Ying saw the servants in the room come out. She looked at the tea and refreshments in her hand and then left with a smile.

“Hong Ying Jie.”

When she had walked half of the way, she was called by a servant in green robes. She looked closely at the other and recognized that she was someone who had duties at the second gate. “Is there a matter?”

The green-robed servant girl looked around and made sure that there was no one around before she lowered her voice and said, “Xiao Yu in my room has not been right recently. Last night, I heard her talk in her sleep and mentioning Wang Fei. Meimei doesn’t dare to speculate what is going on and has come to report to Jiejie.”

She lived in the same room as Xiao Yu. If Xiao Yu really did something outrageous, and the matter was exposed, she would be punished by association. It was better to report it early. Even if she was not rewarded for this, she could save herself. She had parents and siblings, so she did not dare risk it.

Hong Ying saw that this servant girl’s expression did not seem fake and nodded. She said, “I know. Go back and make sure that she does not ind out that you said this to me. If something else happens, you have to tell us.” She thought and then added, “You can also tell Chief Steward Mu.”

“Yes.” The green-robed servant girl bobbed at Hong Ying. Seeing that no one was around, she hurriedly left.

Hong Ying gave the tray to a servant girl who passed by and went to ind Mu Tong who was lecturing people. She looked at the junior taijian who was shrunken down and didn’t dare to breathe out of fright of Mu Tong. She smiled and said, “Chief Steward Mu, you are busy?”

“It is Miss Hong Ying—please sit, please sit.” A smile instantly hung on Mu Tong’s face. He indicated for Hong Ying to sit next to the stone table and ordered someone to get tea.

“Mu gonggong, there is no need to go such trouble. I will say a few words and then leave.” Hong Ying looked at the people in the surroundings. “Let’s have these people attend to their own duties.”

Mu Tong was a smart person and naturally understood that what Hong Ying was going to say was not something for other people’s ears. He said, “Didn’t you hear Miss Hong Ying’s words—what are you standing around for?”

After those people left, Mu Tong said with a smile, “What good matter has made Miss Hong Ying come personally?”

“Mu gonggong is too polite; it is not a major matter. However, you are the chief steward and I have to speak of this matter to you.” Hong Ying explained the matter and then said, “Wang Fei still needs me to be there, so I will leave irst.”

“Miss Hong Ying, walk slowly.” Mu Tong walked a few steps with her out of curiosity. After Hong Ying’s igure disappeared, the smile on his face faded. Wang Fei‘s servant girls were not simple. This matter appeared simple, but in reality, it was very troublesome. It was just talking in one’s sleep and could not be said to be accurate. But if they did not do anything, there was the fear that something could happen. So they gave the matter to him and ended their own connection. However, he could not say no. In the eyes of other people, Wang Fei‘s people remembering to report matters to him was a sign that they respected him.

Mu Tong thought and then decided to imprison the servant girl called Xiao Yu. No matter what was going on with her, he would irst keep her locked up for a few days to see if there was anything suspicious or if she had any other accomplices.

In the main rooms, Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan were sitting crosslegged without any posture on the chaise. There was a pile of precious stones and jade pendants in front of them.

“This jade pendant is pretty.” Hua Xi Wan took the jade pendant and tested it on Yan Jin Qiu’s waist. Then she said, “But the color is too plain.”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled and said, “Isn’t your attire plain as well?”

Hua Xi Wan put down the jade pendant and took out from the pile a hairpin that was meant for a male. The mutton-fat while jade was carved in the form of a lucky cloud. It was a very simple carving, but the craftsmanship was very good. “Lin Ping Junma is not close to us, but he was our brother-in-law. If our attire is too bright, wouldn’t that break etiquette?”

Yan Jin Qiu sighed and then looked at Hua Xi Wan who was picking through the different precious stones. He somehow said what he actually thought inside. “This person is a little man who was skilled in currying favor, but she wanted to marry him even under the threat of death. That year, not long after she married, Father-Wang passed away. The Emperor used this chance to demote the wang fu when I inherited

it. But even so, the outside had rumors that said the sons and daughters of the Xian Wang branch were un ilial and overly romantic. It would have been ine if that was just it. But after she married to Jiang City, she never communicated back. In her eyes, we are probably the large stick that tried and failed to separate the two lovebirds.”

Hua Xi Wan’s movements stilled. She watched Yan Jin Qiu and did not speak.

“These years, Luo Zhong Zheng has constantly put up memorandums to the Emperor for him to suppress the side branches of the Imperial House. This suits the Emperor’s appetite.” Yan Jin Qiu laughed coldly. “And this good sister of mine actually wrote a letter for me to cooperate with Luo Zhong Zheng’s suggestion. It is so humorous. Without our wang fu, what is her junzhu position? But she is so naïve that she betrays her relatives for this, and as long as that man is good to her, it is worth it to sacri ice anything.”

Hua Xi Wan heard a thread of exhaustion and indifference from Yan Jin Qiu’s words. She couldn’t help but think, if she was Yan Jin Qiu, she probably would not feel much for this sister. It would be amazing if she did not feel hate.

“Is it because of this that Junzhu has distanced herself from our fu?” Hua Xi Wan put her hands onto his hands and smiled comfortingly at him.

“There is no relationship where she can always demand things and not repay.” Yan Jin Qiu’s tone was extremely indifferent. “I did not agree to what she wanted, so she naturally feels hate.”

Hua Xi Wan’s brow imperceptibly creased. This Lin Ping Junzhu was slightly sel ish and stupid.

“If that is the case, then we shall just do as our hearts tell us.” Hua Xi Wan gripped Yan Jin Qiu’s hands. “Right now, you and she both have your own families—who can take care of the other for an entire lifetime?”

Yan Jin Qiu laughed lowly. He gripped her hands back and said warmly, “I just knew that you would understand my thoughts. Only Xi Wan knows me in this world.”

Hua Xi Wan’s eyes swirled with light and she smiled. “Jin Qiu’s chest is as deep as the mountain is tall—how can you be sure that I understand your thoughts?” It probably was that the mood right now was too good, or maybe it was the death of Lin Ping Junma that caused Hua Xi Wan to feel that there was nothing that people did not dare to say or do in this world. A lifetime was hard and short; she had to live more freely.

Yan Jin Qiu looked at her with both eyes, his index inger lightly drawing across her brow. He suddenly laughed.

“I had thought that you would not ask this…”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

府 fu: compound or estate; wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 王 wang: short for qinwang or irst-rank prince; also called wang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a wang or prince 郡主 junzhu: titled daughter of a qinwang ( irst-rank prince) 嬷嬷 mama: old female servant 郡⻢ junma: the husband of a junzhu ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 姐姐 jiejie: elder sister Chapter Forty-Seven: Clear

Hua Xi Wan did not think that Yan Jin Qiu would react like this. She blinked and could not ind anything appropriate to say.

While she did not speak, it did not mean that Yan Jin Qiu did not have things to say. He played with her ingers and said, “Actually, when the Emperor decreed our marriage, my joy was greater than my anger.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at him and did not speak. She smiled.

“Compared to the Hou Family female that Yan Bo Yi married that only has the reputation but none of the real power, Yi’an Marquis Fu is much more noble than the Hou Clan.” When Yan Jin Qiu said this, he smiled disdainfully. “They always think that a person like me would desire to be matched with a peerless beauty. So he matchmade me for nothing else except for me to be at odds with Yi’an Marquis Fu.”

Hua Xi Wan took her hands away from Yan Jin Qiu’s hands and smiled sarcastically. “I had not expected for you to think so much.”

“Did you never think about it?” Yan Jin Qiu did not object to Hua Xi Wan’s roll of the eyes. He crowded down next to her to sit. “The day that we married, when I was taking the veil off, I made a great decision. Even if your features were dis igured, I would treat you well. Because if it wasn’t for me, you would not have been pulled into this con lict. With Yi’an Marquis Fu‘s reputation and authority, you could ind a man who could be good to you for a lifetime, and not have to marry into the Imperial Family and possibly receive the laughter of other people due to your appearance.”

Hua Xi Wan bent her head and played with a cat’s eye stone. She did not speak and listened carefully to his inner thoughts.

“When I lifted the veil and saw your appearance, I was not as calm as I appeared.” Yan Jin Qiu touched her hair and sighed. He said, “Sometimes, I wish that your appearance could be slightly more ordinary.”

“My apologies that I do not have a face that can change.” Hua Xi Wan slapped his hand aside and then scornfully moved away from him. “I haven’t even disdained you for attracting so much attention, and you dare mention my appearance?”

“I do not disdain it. I just feel worry.” Yan Jin Qiu grabbed her hand. “I do not feel secure inside. Can you understand this feeling?”

Hua Xi Wan stared at him for a long time before smiling and shaking her head. “So sorry, I do not seem to understand.”

Seeing her like this, Yan Jin Qiu’s heart relaxed. He also had a smile. “If you do not understand, there will be a day that I will have you understand.”

From the outside, footsteps deliberately sounded loudly. A while later, the two heard Mu Tong asking to have an audience with them.

“Come in.” Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan neatened their clothing and adornments before sitting down on the chaise. The pile of precious stones was swept to the side.

“Wang Ye, Wang Fei, this small one caught a suspicious servant girl in the fu. What to do?” Mu Tong understood that it was Wang Fei‘s servant girl who had reported about Xiao Yu to him. If he did not mention this in front of Wang Ye and Wang Fei, that would be too dumb.

“Servant girl?” Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow. “Where does she serve?”

“Wang Fei, this Xiao Yu used to be a cleaning servant outside the study. A while back, she was sent to the second gate to serve,” Mu Tong said respectfully. “According to this small one’s investigation, this Xiao Yu was sold into the fu a few years ago, and is very honest and obedient usually.”

“In this world, the people who look the most honest are usually the most evil,” Yan Jin Qiu said neutrally. “Since she is not willing to confess, then question her well. She will say something.”

Hua Xi Wan raised a teacup to drink and did not react at all to Yan Jin Qiu’s words.

Mu Tong glanced at Wang Ye and Wang Fei. Now having a good idea, he bowed and left.

After mid-autumn, the weather gradually cooled. Because there was no male master in Lin Ping Junzhu Fu, each day was quieter than the one before it. The servants were even more careful and wary of angering Junzhu and getting beaten as a result.

“It is Xian Wang Fu that has sent these things again?” Lin Ping Junzhu took the gift list from a servant’s hand. The characters on the surface were elegant and clear but did not seem like the writing of a man. Hua Xi Wan’s outrageously beautiful face appeared in her mind. Lin Ping Junzhu put down the list and said in an indifferent tone, “Prepare gifts to deliver back to Xian Wang Fu, and say that I thank their wang fei for the concern.”

“Junzhu, why do you not…” The mama next to her was slightly panicked. Xian Wang Fu was Junzhu‘s paternal home. Now that the junma had passed away, why was Junzhu worsening her relationship to her paternal family?

“Mama, do not try to persuade me,” Lin Ping Junzhu said with a grimace. “I do not have an avenue of retreat. These gifts look generous, but they are all things that little children use. The one who sent the gifts is Hua shi, can you not see?”

“How can Xian Wang Ye be like this? You are his full-blooded elder sister—how can he not care for familial love and help you?” The mama

felt slightly discontent. “Even Count Shun An who is not of the same mother as you will have to respectfully call you Jiejie in front of you.”

“What is he worth? Just a son of a concubine,” Lin Ping Junzhu said disdainfully. “In the future, do not mention him in front of me. Even if I am not on good terms with Yan Jin Qiu, I will not have a relationship with the son of a concubine.”

The mama became silent. She also knew what the old wang ye had done in the past, so she could not urge and sighed.

“I had originally thought that Hua shi is a woman with beauty and nothing else. But now it seems that she is very good at maintaining appearances.” Lin Ping Junzhu picked up the gift list that she threw mockingly to the side. “Someone come and move these in the stores.” Her Junzhu Fu did not lack for these things.

What quali ication did Hua shi have to pity her?

The rain continued to come down. It might have been due to the weather or the assassination of Lin Ping Junma that the of icials and the common people in Jing all felt unsafe. Once the sky darkened, there were only the patrols of the Guard Of ice and the night watch that were on the street. There were not many igures.

Even the of icials who prepared to attend court in the morning had double the normal amount of servants with them. They also added a

thick layer of copper to their carriages, and the curtains on their carriages were changed to sliding doors.

The terri ied atmosphere of Jing caused Qilong Emperor to be furious. Right under the foot of the Heavenly Son, a junma had been assassinated very close to his own fu. This culprit was challenging him, the Emperor, and slapping his and the Crown Prince’s face.

Who in Jing did not know that while Luo Zhong Zheng was the husband of Xian Wang‘s sister, he was on distant terms with Xian Wang and close to the Crown Prince? Everyone knew that, the night of the assassination, the junma had just left the Crown Prince’s fu.

Qilong Emperor had once suspected that Yan Jin Qiu could be behind all of this, but when he thought about it, Yan Jin Qiu was only interested in writing and drawing and was also on distant relations with Lin Ping Junzhu. After Luo Zhong Zheng was assassinated, his relationship with his sister was still cool. This honest attitude caused Qilong Emperor to unconsciously eliminate him.

Yan Bo Yi had a great reputation in court and was someone with a deep mind. He attracted Qilong Emperor’s suspicions, especially when he heard that there had been scraps from Yan Bo Yi’s clothes found on the bodies of the two red-lights females who had been killed before.

Maybe other people would feel that only idiots would leave behind such clear evidence for people to feel suspicious about, but there were also

smart people who would leave this precisely so people would not suspect them.

Yan Bo Yi could likely do this based on his usual conduct.

This time, Qilong Emperor was not willing to give the case to Yan Bo Yi to investigate, so he moved Yan Bo Yi from the Judicial Of ice to the Ministry of Works. He allowed others to speculate and was not willing to have him stay in this position.

“Is there someone young and reliable in the Guard Of ice?” Qilong Emperor summoned the Chief Justice of the Justice Of ice and asked about the Guard Of ice.

Hearing this, the Chief Justice’s thoughts swirled. Being picked by the Emperor now was probably a calamity and not good fortune, so he hesitated slightly before recommending Junior Of icial Zhang Hou.

“Zhang Hou?” Qilong Emperor thought and then said, “It is the young person who took control of the rampaging horse of the Imperial Brother-in-law?”

“Your Majesty, it is that person.” The Chief Justice bowed and said, “This person is honest. While he is not lexible at times, he ful ills his duties.”

“En, the Judicial Of ice needs people like this. Since that is the case, then have him go to the Judicial Of ice to investigate this matter.” Qilong Emperor had quickly ran through his memories of Zhang Hou’s background and connections. He made sure that this person’s background was average and that he did not belong to any faction before he said, “In the Judicial Of ice, he will also be in the position of Junior Of icial.”

Even though the titles were both Junior Of icial, a Judicial Of ice Junior Of icial was much higher and prestigious than a Junior Of icial of the Guard Of ice. If someone received a promotion like this at a usual time, other people would be jealous, but right now, many people felt sympathy towards Zhang Hou for not getting on good terms with his superiors.

If he was the junior of icial of the Guard Of ice, he could keep his position, but now that he went to be Junior Of icial of the Judicial Of ice and was responsible for the assassination of Lin Ping Junma, he had basically reached the end of his career. There was also the possibility that he would not be able to keep his life.

The changes in position in court were too distant from Hua Xi Wan. After she and Yan Jin Qiu had their talk, her days were even more carefree. She even put out a weapon rack in the yard. Even though she had only learned bare-handed ighting and how to use a whip from the aunts of the Lu Clan, this did not stop her from putting these things in the yard.

According to her, putting these things in the yard would ward off evil spirits. Yan Jin Qiu was helpless and could only get people to put out

some weapons that looked intimidating but were actually blunt in order to gain the smile of the beauty.

Also, he knew that Hua Xi Wan was not a person to do needless things. She de initely had her reasons for putting these things out.

The common saying was that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. That is, many people like to think well of the person they like. In reality, Hua Xi Wan did not have any other meaning in putting out a weapon rack except that she felt there was more of an atmosphere when she was training in the yard.

However, she had the servants take it down when she was not practicing. She would only put it out during her practice, therefore this was not something that was astounding to the world.

As to the strange rumors outside that Xian Wang Fei beat Xian Wang with a whip, that was not something she knew about.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a wang or prince 王 wang: short for qinwang or irst-rank prince; also called wang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

郡⻢ junma: the husband of a junzhu; also called junma ye 郡主 junzhu: titled daughter of a qinwang ( irst-rank prince) 府 fu: compound or estate; wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 本宫 ben gong: lit. “this palace”; illeism for high-ranked denizens (usually female) of the Imperial Palace

世⼦妃 shizi fei: the of icial wife of a shizi 世⼦ shizi: heir apparent to a qinwang ( irst-rank prince) ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang (second-rank prince) 堂嫂 tang sao: father’s brother’s (older) son’s wife 嬷嬷 mama: old female servant 哀家 aijia: lit. “grieving one”; illeism for a widowed empress Chapter Forty-Eight: Heavy Doubts

There was a kind of rumor that one believed before other people did.

At some unknown time, there were rumors spreading in Jing that Xian Wang Fei was actually a great shrew. The noble misses that used to like Xian Wang would also complain. Some men felt that Xian Wang was not strong enough so his wife did not obey him, but more men felt that if they could marry such a beauty, so what if she did not listen?

Half a month had passed since the assassination of Lin Ping Junma. No other assassinations had occurred in Jing. Many people sighed in relief and started to believe that the person who killed Lin Ping Junma was

one at odds with him. Otherwise, why would they allow the matter to become known far and wide?

The Judicial Of ice was also thinking the same, so they started to investigate Luo Zhong Zheng and the Luo Family. It would have been ine if they did not investigate this, but when they did, they found that this Luo Junma was not a good person. The Luo Family also used their power to bully others in Jiang City and abused the citizens.

For example, this junma ye wanted to take a prosperous store and actually made the owner’s wife die from anger. And his younger brother also forcibly took a commoner female as a concubine. This was lawless behavior.

The more they investigated, the more the people of the Judicial Of ice felt that while Luo Zhong Zheng himself did not have many faults, his relatives really attracted hate. Such a crude and ignorant family was able to attract the junzhu to marry down. Luo Zhong Jing really had good moves.

The information even showed that Luo Zhong Zheng’s mother had once tried to act as the mother-in-law in front of Lin Ping Junzhu. However, the junzhu was not a soft one. After a few lessons, the Luo Family was much more obedient in front of the junzhu. It was a pity that this junzhu did not do much to manage the conduct of the Luo Family and caused many innocent people to be harmed by the Luo Family.

The Luo Family had caused many broken families. If they had to investigate from this angle, it really was not easy to start. However, they still reported the things that the Luo Family did to the Emperor. What was going to happen next would be the problem of the Emperor.

“Junior Of icial Zhang, this case is full of doubts everywhere and there are many places that it is related to. This lowly of icial does not know where to start.” The Judicial Of ice deputy inished organizing the evidence of the case and was illed with worry. Disregarding the things that the Luo Family had done, just this matter of the junma having a lirtation with a certain seductive singer, and being found out by Lin Ping Junzhu, was a very suspicious matter. For example, could Lin Ping Junzhu have felt hate and found someone to kill the junma?

Zhang Hou had been working in the Judicial Of ice for over a fortnight. Because the Emperor was paying attention to this matter, not many in the Judicial Of ice tried to deliberately make things dif icult for him. After half a month of exploration, he had basically learned the network inside the Judicial Of ice and was even better at taking care of matters. What he had to worry about now was being able to conclude Lin Ping Junma‘s case. Otherwise, his career would really end.

Even though he had been summoned in the morning by the Emperor and scolded, Zhang Hou’s mental strength was the same as his name.[i] Taking the list of evidence the deputy presented, he took a rough look and said disdainfully, “A little Luo Family has committed so much sin.”

The deputy sighed. “It really is so. However, when the people from the Junzhu Fu sent someone to ask about the progress of the case, this lowly of icial heard the person’s tone was not good.”

“Do not pay attention to them. Investigating the case is the main matter.” Zhang Hou could see it clearly. This Lin Ping Junzhu only had an empty position as she did not have Xian Wang Fu‘s support. They, the Judicial Of ice, did not need to consider her.

The deputy heard the meaning hidden in his words. He said with a smile, “This lowly of icial will remember.”

“I will report these things to the Emperor tomorrow.” Zhang Hou’s brow creased. “Get someone to investigate the ambiguous connection between Luo Zhong Zheng and that singer.”

If he had to give his opinion, this junma wasn’t a good person, and the world was better off with him dead.

In the Imperial Garden inside the Imperial Palace, the Crown Princess was supported by a servant girl as she listened to the servant tell of the interesting things that happened in Jing. She inally showed a smile that had not appeared for a few days. “When have these people ever seen Xian Wang Fei? What shrew? Bengong feels that Xian Wang Fei is not someone like that.”

“It is just the ignorant people saying nonsense, not many would take it as true,” the servant girl responded with a smile.

Just as they were speaking of the person, the person arrived. The Crown Princess raised her head and saw the procession come. The one at the front was the Xian Wang Fei who they had just mentioned. Walking together with Xian Wang Fei was the Shizi Fei of Xu Wang Fu. She felt slightly surprised. How had these people gotten together?

She remembered that Xu Wang Fu‘s Shizi Fei was a daughter of a famous clan in the South, and one most noble. She did not interact much with the noble ladies in Jing, but because she was going to be Xu Wang Fei in the future, the noblewomen in Jing would all give her some face. No matter what their relationship to her was, if they met, they would exchange courtesies.

“Your Highness, Crown Princess.” When Hua Xi Wan and the shizi fei, Ning shi, came in front of the Crown Princess, they made steady curtsies.

“Please, quickly stand up.” The Crown Princess made a movement to help them up and then returned half of a curtsey. “Are you two going to visit the Empress Dowager in Fu Kang Palace? How about we go together?”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and nodded her head. She had seen the Crown Princess from a ways off. But because there was a shizi fei next to her, she pretended to not see the Crown Princess. She did not interact much with this shizi fei. This one was also not a chatty person. Fortunately, her personality was serene, so when the two of them walked together, she did not feel awkward silences.

“I have not seen Sheng Junwang Fei recently.” The Crown Princess walked at the front, and Hua Xi Wan walked a deliberate half-step behind her.

“Tangsao is pregnant, which is the time to rest. It is normal that she does not come often into the palace,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “I have not been pregnant before, but I hear that the irst few months are the ones where the most care needs to be taken.”

“Yes, giving birth is a great matter for women; one cannot mess around.” The Crown Princess thought of her belly that had no stirrings and felt bitter inside. She and the Crown Prince had been married for almost two years, but there was no joyous news. It was not just her. Even the concubines of the Crown Prince did not have any good news. She could not remain calm. “It is a good event to be pregnant. A married woman will always hope for this.”

Hua Xi Wan became silent. She could not judge and say if the Crown Princess’ words were right or wrong. But she had to say that, as the Crown Princess, it really was a headache not to have a child. If she was the Crown Princess, she would not be as open-minded. Not just now, but even in the world in her past life, when men and women were equal, there was a group of people that thought it was the natural way of life for women to marry and have children. If the women could not do it, they were not women—they were pitiful beings who no one would marry. Even if you had an accomplished career, there would be perverts who would suspect that your glory came from using improper methods.

The world was much more dif icult for women, so it was so hard to be a woman. In reality, as there wasn’t even one child being born on the Crown Prince’s Fu, she suspected that there was a problem with the Crown Prince. Otherwise, with this person’s lusty desires, how could not one woman get pregnant?

It was a pity that the world would only suspect that a woman could not get pregnant and that it was not a problem of the man.

Thinking about this, Hua Xi Wan comforted, “Things like children are a matter of fate, and one cannot demand this. Maybe if one does not desire it, it will come.”

The Crown Princess squeezed out a smile. “Maybe that is the case.” The Crown Prince was not Xian Wang and would take care of her, spoil her. So she could not be as carefree as Hua shi. She could only swallow all the hardship inside. Right now, Sheng Junwang Fei was pregnant and Mother-Empress was even more impatient. She frequently had the Grand Doctors prescribe medicine for her to drink like it was water. But no matter what medicines she drank, there was still no child.

She knew how dissatis ied Mother-Empress was with her, but the Grand Doctor’s diagnosis was that there was nothing wrong with her body. To whom could she express her dissatisfaction?

Ning shi walked silently beside the two people as though the conservation of the two people had no effects on her even though she only had one daughter.

When the three people were led in by a mama into the hall, it was slightly awkward as no one had expected a consort to be sitting and crying in front of the Empress Dowager.

Hua Xi Wan glanced at the igure who hurried away and felt suspicious. There was clearly someone in the hall, yet the Empress Dowager’s attendant had directly led them in. Wasn’t this purposefully creating an awkward state?

“Aiyaya.” The Empress Dowager saw them and a shining smile appeared. “I was just wondering why the songbirds were singing without rest this morning. So it is that this old lady will see the three grandson-wives at once. Quick, sit.”

The three went forward and curtsied to the Empress Dowager before sitting down on the benches. No one mentioned the consort who had just led.

“There has been much rain recently. It has stopped today, but the ground is slippery. It was a hardship for you to make the trip.” After the Empress Dowager said this, she had a servant present some good bolts of cloths and divide it among the three people. “Originally, I wanted people to deliver this, but since you have come today, it will save aijia‘s people from making the trip.”

“Imperial Grandmother is generous, and grandson-wife will not refuse it.” Hua Xi Wan touched the cloth with a smile. There was joy in her

j y eyes. “This cloth is very comfortable to touch. Imperial Grandmother, why don’t you be more generous and give me a few more bolts?”

“I just knew you would be the greediest.” The Empress Dowager was made very happy by Hua Xi Wan’s words. “When you leave, you should take two more bolts. The same with you two as well—take two more bolts. Do not have them bene it her alone.”

The Crown Princess and Ning shi both showed a smile. Ning shi followed along in lattering and made the Empress Dowager even happier. She then bestowed a pair of jade bangles to each person.

When the three bid farewell, the Empress Dowager said with a smile, “Go quickly, otherwise, you will empty out this old woman’s stores.”

“Imperial Grandmother, you are fooling us again. The Emperor and Empress are so ilial to you—what good things do they not give to you?” Hua Xi Wan blinked her eyes and said, “Even if grandson-wife intends to take everything, I do not have the strength.”

“Smart mouth.” The Empress Dowager teased Hua Xi Wan before waving her hand for the three people to leave together.

Ning shi walked with a bowed head at the back with a clear mind.

The rumor was that out of all the grandsons’ wives, the Empress Dowager liked Xian Wang Fei the most. Today, it really did seem so.

[i]

厚 (hou) means thick Novel generated at novelepubs.com

太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound 嬷嬷 mama: old female servant 王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a wang ( irst-rank prince)

郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang (second-rank prince) ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 堂嫂 tang sao: father’s brother’s (older) son’s wife 堂弟妹 tang dimei: father’s brother’s (younger) son’s wife 堂伯 tang bo: elder male cousin on father’s side (for a man) when referred to by a (female) speaker who has married in (as the aforementioned man’s wife)

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Chapter Forty-Nine: The Miscarriage of Hou shi

Before the three had gone far from the Empress Dowager’s palace, the sound of clapping came from ahead. The three instantly stopped moving forward, hurriedly retreated a few steps to the side and stood next to the path with bowed heads.

Qilong Emperor was wearing a black and red outer robe, and a gold coronet on his head. He was surrounded by a group of taijian and female palace attendants as he walked towards this side. There were numerous female palace attendants and taijian kneeling on the ground.

When he passed in front of the Crown Princess and the others, Qilong Emperor tilted his head to look at the trio. His gaze swept across Hua Xi Wan and the others who were making proper bows and said faintly, “There is no need for so much courtesy.”

Hearing this, the three bobbed and then moved backwards. After they went a distance, they inally turned and hurried away.

“Emperor?” The taijian saw the Emperor was standing at his spot and reminded in a low voice. This was right outside the Empress Dowager’s

residential palace. It was not appropriate for the Emperor to stare at his daughter-in-law and nieces-in-law.

“En.” Qilong Emperor moved his gaze away. Putting his hands behind his back, he walked without a word towards the Empress Dowager’s palace. The female palace attendants and taijian following him sighed in relief.

The Crown Princess and the others also sighed inside. It was not comfortable to be stared at by the Emperor like that. If some rumor spread in the future, it would be even worse.

The three separated at the palace gates, and all of them left on their own carriages.

When she got onto the carriage, Hua Xi Wan thought about the deliberate pause Qilong Emperor had performed just now. Even though Qilong Emperor had been increasingly arrogant, his mind was still in the range of normal people. Why would he act like that without a cause?

Was it on purpose or a momentary daze?

She didn’t know how long the carriage travelled when Hua Xi Wan heard the servant outside report that they had arrived at the wang fu. She neatened her clothing and then held Bai Xia’s hand to get off the carriage. Just as she prepared to sit onto the sedan to enter the inner

compound, a mama hurried out. When the servant saw her, she knelt down. “Wang Fei, Sheng Junwang Fu has just sent a message. Sheng Junwang Fei‘s child is gone.”

“What did you say?” Hua Xi Wan’s expression changed slightly. She knew how much importance Hou shi placed on her child. How could she suddenly have a miscarriage?

She thought and then said to Bai Xia, “Go back and change. We will go visit Sheng Junwang Fu.” Her clothing right now was too complex and bright. It would not be appropriate to visit Hou shi like this.

Choosing a set of light-colored palace robes, she changed her jeweled hairpins to jade adornments that appeared steadier. Hua Xi Wan brought all kinds of replenishing medicines and then sat onto the carriage for Sheng Junwang Fu.

When Hua Xi Wan got to Sheng Junwang Fu, the Crown Princess was already at the door. The two exchanged greetings and then examined each other’s attire that was much simpler. They understood what the other was thinking, and put on grave expressions to walk together through the gates of Sheng Junwang Fu.

Hou shi‘s complexion was not good and was very pale. Even her expression was withered. However, when she saw Hua Xi Wan and the Crown Princess, she still wanted to struggle up to curtsy and only gave up after the Crown Princess pressed her down.

Hua Xi Wan saw that while Hou shi‘s speech was all right, the pain in her eyes could not be disguised. She said, “Tang Sao, ease your mind. You are still young and there are chances in the future.”

“Maybe it is that this child does not have karma with me.” Hou shi wanted to squeeze out a smile, but after trying for a while, she could not make a smile. In the end, she could only give up. “It is just when I think that he has stayed in my belly for more than two months and then left silently like this, I feel terrible inside.”

Hua Xi Wan’s feelings were complex. Watching Hou shi, who was usually proper and digni ied, looking like this, she knew that Hou shi was feeling terrible right now and just forcing herself in front of other people. Thinking about this, she could only urge with good intentions, “Maybe after a while, he will return to you.”

The words were empty, and while Hou shi did not believe this, she seemed to take the words as hope. She looked dazedly at Hua Xi Wan. “Is what you say true?”

“Of course. That child would not be willing to leave a good mother like you.” Hua Xi Wan grasped Hou shi‘s hand and patted it. She found that Hou shi‘s hand was astoundingly cold. “No matter what, you have to take care of yourself, otherwise, you will be the one to suffer in the future.”

Finishing, she put Hou shi‘s hand under the blanket. “You have to keep an open mind about all things in the word. If you cannot do this, it will

not be possible to live.”

It was probably because Hua Xi Wan’s movements were too natural that Hou shi could not see any sign that she was acting. Her heart warmed slightly and she said, “I know, Tang Dimei. Thank you for your concern.”

“We are one family; there is no need to be so polite.” Hua Xi Wan saw a servant girl come in with medicine and took the bowl of medicine from the hands of the servant girl. She tested the temperature of the medicine and felt that it was at a perfect temperature, so she was going to feed it to Hou shi.

Hou shi naturally refused and so Hua Xi Wan did not persist. She handed the bowl to Hou shi for her to inish drinking before taking the bowl and handing it to the servant girl. “Tang Sao, you have good fortune. Have a good rest and do not think so much.”

Hou shi thought of Yan Bo Yi who had not yet returned to the fu, and the child that she had lost. Seeing the sincere worry on Hua Xi Wan’s face, she felt complex. “Thank you.”

Hua Xi Wan saw her act like this and a slight smile appeared. “This is right. As a woman, you have to be good to yourself. Otherwise, are you not wasting the grace of your parents in raising you?”

Hearing this, the Crown Princess’ expression stilled, and then she smiled bitterly. Xian Wang Fei could say this because she lived in Yi’an

Marquis Fu who truly loved their daughter. But she was raised from childhood according to the standards of a crown princess. She was not born as the daughter of the family but as the future crown princess.

After Hua Xi Wan gave a few more words of comfort, she looked around the room. Her gaze landed on a decoration of jade stones and agate arranged into a tray landscape.

This tray landscape had great craftsmanship, but the material for the vines of grapes seemed to be problematic. She adjusted the expression on her face. “Tang Sao, your tray landscape is very beautiful, but why are the grapes carved from night pearls?”

When Hou shi heard the word grapes, she said with a bitter smile, “This is an auspicious item that the Crown Princess has given me, but I have failed Crown Princess’ good wishes.”

Grapes represented having many children, and it really was a good present to give to Hou shi who was pregnant. However, why would the Crown Princess give something made from night pearls? To speak of nothing else, it was not very appropriate to use the color of the night pearls as grapes.

“What are you saying—it is just a plaything,” the Crown Princess said with a normal expression. “Its greatest merit is to get you to smile.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at the Crown Princess’ proper conduct, and a question appeared in her mind. Did the Crown Princess know that night pearls in a room were not good for a pregnant woman?

After comforting Hou shi‘s emotions, Hua Xi Wan and the Crown Princess bid farewell at the same time. When she stepped out of the gate of Sheng Junwang Fu, she sighed. This junwang fu had good etiquette, but it was illed with an unspeakable heaviness.

“Goodbye, Crown Princess.” Hua Xi Wan watched as the Crown Princess got on the carriage. After her procession left, she turned to get onto the carriage. Just as her foot was on the stool, she saw a carriage with the insignia of Sheng Junwang Fu hurry towards her.

Just as she was dazed, a person jumped off the carriage. It was Sheng Junwang Yan Bo Yi.

“Xian Wang Fei.” Yan Bo Yi had not expected to encounter Hua Xi Wan in a setting such as this. He said politely with a bow, “This one has matters and cannot attend to you.”

“Tang Bo, walk slowly.” Hua Xi Wan turned her body sideways and returned the greeting. Seeing Yan Bo Yi enter the junwang fu in large strides, she also got onto the carriage.

This was very interesting. Even the sisters-in-law and other female relatives such as her knew that Hou shi had miscarried, yet Yan Bo Yi,

the husband, only managed to come back at this time.

It was probably that men thought what was most important was their work. Her thinking was probably the one that was unorthodox.

When she returned to the wang fu, Yan Jin Qiu had already returned. Seeing her come in from outside, he asked in concern, “How come you only returned now—did you eat a noon meal?” Seeing her shake her head, he had people go prepare food in the kitchen. “What happened, that your complexion is so terrible?”

Hua Xi Wan shook her head. “Sheng Junwang Fei miscarried, so I went to visit the junwang fu.”

Yan Jin Qiu lowered his face and then poured a cup of tea for Hua Xi Wan. “Is Tang Sao all right?”

“She is not very energetic. ” Hua Xi Wan took the teacup and then took a sip. “When I got there, the Crown Princess was already there. Sheng Junwang Fei is also a digni ied person, so we were very courteous and did not say much.”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled. “The Crown Princess is very attentive this time.”

When Hua Xi Wan heard this, her brow furrowed. She thought of the night pearl grape decoration again.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

府 fu: compound or estate; (jun)wang fu: prince’s estate/compound ⽒ shi: clan/maiden name 郡王妃 junwang fei: the of icial wife of a junwang 郡王 junwang: second-rank prince 王 wang: short for qinwang or irst-rank prince; also called wang ye, i.e. “His [Your] Royal Highness”

太监 taijian: court or palace eunuch 世⼦ shizi: heir apparent to a qinwang ( irst-rank prince) 王妃 wang fei: princess consort; the of icial wife of a wang or prince Chapter Fifty: Suspicions

“What are you thinking about?” Seeing Hua Xi Wan’s brow furrow, Yan Jin Qiu’s face held concern. “Why are you frowning?”

“Nothing, I just felt strange seeing a certain decoration in Sheng Junwang Fu.” The grape decoration was something in Hou shi‘s room, so it would not be appropriate for Hua Xi Wan to speak of it in too much detail to Yan Jin Qiu. “I don’t know why the Crown Princess would give something of that material to Sheng Junwang Fei.”

She did not know if the Crown Princess knew that night pearls were unhealthy if they were kept in close contact with people, especially those who were pregnant. The Crown Princess herself wanted children badly, but in front of power, someone else’s child would not be so important.

The Crown Prince and Sheng Junwang were at odds to start with, not to mention that the rumor circulating in public was that Sheng Junwang had more ability to rule than the Crown Prince. If Sheng Junwang irst had a son, from the Emperor to the Crown Princess, no one would rest easy.

When she thought about this, Hua Xi Wan rubbed the corner of her eyes. No wonder the Crown Princess had hurried to get to Sheng Junwang Feiso early. So she had been going to con irm if the miscarriage was true or not. This was very bothersome.

“If you do not feel well, rest after eating.” Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Xi Wan’s expression become uglier, and his worry became more evident on his

face. “If I had known beforehand, I would not have let you be dragged into these matters.”

It clearly was a very normal sentence, but when it reached Hua Xi Wan’s ears, her heart jumped. “Wang Ye seems to have something that you have not told me.”

Yan Jin Qiu sighed. “Those who are too smart tire the head.” He walked to Hua Xi Wan and reached out a hand to wrap around her from the back. “A few days ago, the Crown Prince and I talked about the night pearl, and I said that it is not good for night pearls to be put in the bedroom as they are unhealthy for the body.”

Hua Xi Wan abruptly turned to look at Yan Jin Qiu. Just as Yan Jin Qiu thought she would utter words of blame, she suddenly smiled. “Jin Qiu should be more careful when you talk in the future, otherwise, people will use you.”

“Wife is right; this husband will de initely remember.” Yan Jin Qiu stole a kiss behind her ear and then said, “In the future, if there is something you want to know, ask me. As long as I know it, I will tell you everything.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at his perfect side pro ile and put a hand lightly on the back of his hand. “Jin Qiu’s thoughts always surprise me.”

“It is not that I surprise you, but that you do not believe me.” Yan Jin Qiu seemed to have changed his method of interaction with Hua Xi Wan, taking off his mask and becoming more direct. “I know that you do not like these matters, but it is a part of being in the Imperial Family— otherwise, our children will live days of decline, with the name of Imperial Family members, but where any prestigious family in Jing is better off than them.”

There were many Imperial clansmen in Jing who were in decline. A portion of them were the descendants of wang and junwang who failed in trying to get the throne. There were also people who did not have any ability and just struggled through their days. But most representative were the Imperial Family relatives who were the descendants of the losers in the ight over the throne, or the people who had been disliked for generations by previous emperors. The fate of their lives was almost predetermined from birth. Unless they were truly one of the geniuses found once in a hundred years and loyal to the emperor, they would only be able to live out an average and boring life.

Right now, Xian Wang Fu‘s position seemed grand, but it was actually wavering. If the Emperor had a few more sons or the Crown Prince had many children, then imperial nephews like Yan Jin Qiu were not worth anything.

The reason why Sheng Junwang had the support of so many people in court was due to this, because no one dared to guarantee that the Crown Prince would not mess up the entire Zhao Dynasty. If the Crown Prince had as few children as the Emperor, then there would only be one path to take in the future: adopt someone from the Imperial Clan to take the throne.

The two branches that were closest in blood to the previous emperor were Sheng Junwang and Xian Junwang, so in the hearts of many people, because the Crown Prince was not a good one, they unconsciously were respectful of these two people.

“I understand what you mean…” Hua Xi Wan already understood why Yan Jin Qiu did not plan on having children in the next two years. One reason was because she truly was too young and therefore unsuited to a have a child now, the other was that the Emperor and Empress would not be willing to see Xian Wang have a irstborn son before the Crown Prince did.

The events of Sheng Junwang Fu were what waited for their Xian Wang Fu.

Some things Hua Xi Wan could guess. For example, while she was in charge of the inner compound, when she found that some taijian and servant girls vanished without a sound, she would not do anything after summoning Mu Tong and asking a few questions.

She never asked where the people who disappeared went to, and Yan Jin Qiu never asked her why she would practice the martial arts of her maternal family. If she thought about it, the two of them were similar in many aspects, but she was more willing to close her eyes and let it pass, while Yan Jin Qiu was truly vicious in mind and action.

The news of Sheng Junwang Fei‘s miscarriage quickly spread through Jing. Some people felt pity, others felt that the matter was of no concern

to them, and some felt the matter was ishy. However, no one asked questions.

Hou shi, however, had a burst of anger a few days later and even smashed the grape decoration that the Crown Princess had given to her.

When Hua Xi Wan’s expression had not been right when she asked the question, Hou shi had noted it down. Now she had found out that night pearls were not good for pregnant women, and could even cause miscarriages.

She had been sleeping too well in the previous days. She had originally thought that it was because she was pregnant, but thinking about it now, it de initely was the in luence of the night pearls.

In reality, the night pearls did not have such a strong effect. Most of the cause of Hou shi‘s miscarriage was on her. For example, she still ran the household after she got pregnant, and then she was extremely nervous due to caring too much about the child in her belly. Under such heavy pressure, her pregnancy that was not so stable to start with miscarried.

But after a person encountered an unfortunate event, what they hoped to ind was a place to vent. The Crown Prince and the Crown Princess became the targets of Hou shi‘s hatred.

If it was not for the scheming of the couple, her male baby would gradually take form and then be born, to become a shizi of whom she

would be proud.

But all of this turned to nothing. She hated. She wanted to carve out the eyes of the Crown Prince and Crown Princess. But she remembered that she was a junwang fei—she could not act impulsively. Everything had to be planned long-term.

When Yan Bo Yi learned of this matter, his expression also darkened. When he inished listening to Hou shi narrate how she had found out, he raised a brow expressionlessly. “You say that it was Xian Wang Fei?”

Hou shi nodded.

Yan Bo Yi sighed. Truthfully, he would rather play against three couples like the Crown Prince and Crown Princess rather than have anything to do with the Xian couple. These two were really experts at acting. No one knew what they really thought inside. Being enemies with people like this meant that one might become cannon fodder in the next round.

For example, this time. The one who implied that there was something wrong with the grape adornment was Hua shi, but she did not say anything directly. She only waited for them to have their doubts and discover it. Then after increasing hate for the opponent, there was nothing on her and she left freely, while the people involved in the matter were con licted about what to do.

Or right now. He had doubts about whether Hua Xi Wan really knew that the night pearls had negative effects, pretended to accidentally say it, and caused their fu to be on bad terms with the Crown Prince.

However, listening to Hou shi‘s narration, Yan Bo Yi felt that this was not likely. No one in their Sheng Junwang Fu knew that the night pearls had negative effects on pregnant women. Where would Hua Xi Wan learn this from?

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美⼈ meiren: lit. “beautiful person, beauty”; a lower-ranked imperial concubine

Chapter Fifty-One: The Foolish Crown Prince

Hou shi now completely hated the Crown Prince and Crown Princess, but when she inished her con inement and saw the Crown Princess again, she was still the virtuous and considerate Sheng Junwang Fei. Even though her complexion was slightly pale, when one saw her smiling state, no one would feel that she was still in the middle of great sorrow.

The Double Ninth Festival was a day to go somewhere high to sightsee. In order to show his benevolent and ilial heart, Qilong Emperor made a special trip in person, with the Empress, to a temple in the Jing suburbs to pray for the Empress Dowager. In their procession were the junior members of the Yan Clan, as praying for the Empress Dowager was also ilial for these juniors.

When they reached the Three Pure Monastery, the womenfolk got off according to their rank. Hua Xi Wan was a qinwang fei, so she was in the ranks of the qinwang fei. Not long after she got off, she saw Hou shi and the other womenfolk talking together.

After almost a month, Hou shi looked thinner, but her eyes were exceptionally alert. Those black and shiny eyes were also scary to look at.

This caused Hua Xi Wan to recall the rumors that had spread a few days ago that said Hou shi was wounded and would have an extremely dif icult time getting pregnant in the future. This rumor was unproven, but if it was true, it was a calamity for Hou shi.

As the legitimate wife, if she could not get pregnant, then she would only have two choices. One was she would adopt a child from within the clan, but the Emperor and her husband would both have to agree to this. The other was for a concubine to get pregnant, and then remove the mother while keeping the child to be raised as her own.

But no secret would ever remain a secret in this world. Who could guarantee that this child she raised would not learn that their birth mother was killed by their adopted mother? Even if this child really did not now, which woman did not want her own child rather than raise the child of her husband and another woman?

When Hua Xi Wan thought of this, her brow creased and she moved her gaze away from Hou shi. Turning, she walked together with the shizi fei of Xu Wang Fu. For her, it was more appropriate for her to be seen together in public with the shizi fei of Xu Wang Fu which was neutral.

Ning shi seemed to know what Hua Xi Wan intended, but she did not refuse Hua Xi Wan. She even expressed closeness. “Wang Fei’s complexion seems to be even better.”

“Really?” Hua Xi Wan rubbed her face and said with a light laugh, “Maybe it is because all I do is eat and drink, and am too idle?”

Ning shi saw this and smiled with her. Inside, she felt some admiration. She was the shizi fei of Xu Wang Fu, but there was still an authoritative mother-in-law above her and she did not have a son. She needed to be very careful in the fu and did not dare to be careless. She didn’t even dare think about living like Xian Wang Fei.

“It is good fortune to be able to eat and drink well.” Ning shi turned to look at Hou shi nearby and said with pity, “If one cannot do this, then it is a hard toil.”

Knowing the other was feeling sympathy for Hou shi, Hua Xi Wan sighed. “Women never have it easy.”

Ning shi heard this and said with a smile, “Where do you get this from? Right now, who in Jing does not know that Xian Wang is deeply in love with you, gentle and considerate, and doesn’t even have one concubine in the fu. If even you feel that being a woman is dif icult, how can the rest of us live?”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and said neutrally, “Perhaps you’re right.”

Ning shi actually understood that the Xian couple might not be as in love as the rumors had it. Even if it was so, then what? There were countless women in the world in love with their husbands, but who

praised them? If there was even one man who was going to remain true to one person, then it seemed to be a miracle.

The women that men praised were virtuous, generous, or ones who gave their all for the men. The world was so unfair, and women had it so dif icult.

Thinking about this, Ning shi’s smile faded. She said with dispiritedness, “You are right, women do not have it easy.”

Hua Xi Wan looked with surprise at Ning shi. The feeling Ning shi always gave her was of a person of few words and of calm temperament. But a woman who could say these words should not have such a personality.

“There are some words that I am not afraid to say to you.” Ning shi saw Hua Xi Wan look at her and said with a smile, “We are all common people and know how dif icult it is for women, but we cannot change anything. There is nothing different about us compared to others—we are just drunkards who think we are sober.”

Hua Xi Wan’s mind shook and then she said in realization, “Yes, how are we different from others?” She had been here for more than a decade, but other than having another lifetime of memories, what was different about her compared to the other noblewomen? Gold clothing, jade food, surrounded by servants, scheming in the inner compound—she did not lack any of this. It was a pity that she had lived one more life and could not see as clearly as Ning shi, a woman not yet twenty.

“There is a day when this will get better.” Hua Xi Wan smiled. “Even if it is not now, there is nothing in the world that remains unchanging.” Tens of thousands of years ago, society had been matriarchal.

As they idly chatted, they walked into the Three Pure Monastery. The sexes split up in the monastery to pray, the men at the front and the females in the back.

The rituals of Taoism were naturally structured, and it was not a matter of just bowing a few times. Following other people, Hua Xi Wan performed the entire set. She took a fragrant pouch from the tray the Taoist was holding. It was called a good fortune pouch that had been blessed and was said to ward evil and bring good fortune.

Hua Xi Wan did not believe too much in this, but she still had Bai Xia hold it. Then she listened to an old Taoist called Profound Development Spiritual Master talk. She listened for a while. While she felt that the things were slightly duplicitous, some words were reasonable.

In order to avoid falling asleep, Hua Xi Wan drank a few cups of tea to keep her mind alert. When the taijian came to report that they were about to start the journey back to the city, she inally released a breath. It seemed that she had no fate with Taoism.

The Three Pure Monastery was very large and seemed to be a monastery that was speci ically for the use of the Imperial Family. The things inside did not seem luxurious but carried the digni ied and

ethereal air of Taoism. Hua Xi Wan admired the scenery on the way and felt that it was slightly interesting.

When she came out of the door, Hua Xi Wan was still walking with Ning shi. Because there were people ahead and behind them, the two did not speak as much as they had when they entered. They only talked about which store had the best rouge and hairpins.

Just as the womenfolk were about to go through the main gate, a scream suddenly came from a room on the side. It startled all the womenfolk to stop walking.

“What has happened?” The Empress who was walking at the front looked at the palace attendant whose face was ashen in fright. “How can you be so panicked on the holy ground of the Three Pure Ones— where is your etiquette?!”

The palace attendant knelt with a bang in front of the Empress, her entire body shaking and unable to speak a word.

The guard saw that the situation was not right and took out their weapons as they lowed in front of the little room. As a result, the scene inside frightened them so much that they wanted to take out their own eyes.

The captain of the troop irst felt hopeless because they could be killed to keep this secret. Then he looked at the brothers behind him who had

gone through hardships for so many years with him. He gritted his teeth and turned to walk towards the Empress. He used a volume that was not loud but could be heard by the other womenfolk of the Imperial House to say, “Empress, this soldier and the other guards have found Crown Prince… and Li meiren[1] are lying on the chaise.”

Rather than being killed by the Empress, it was better for them to expose the matter. Right now, there were so many of the womenfolk from the Imperial House present. Even if the Empress felt discontent, she could only tolerate this. It was nothing if he was killed, but there were so many brothers here. Everyone had their families and dependents, and they could not all die together for the foolish Crown Prince.

The Crown Prince and a woman of the Emperor had fainted on a chaise together? This was a holy ground of Taoism, and today was the day when the Emperor had come to pray for the Empress Dowager. Yet the Crown Prince and one of the newly favored consorts of the Emperor were unconscious together. How could there be such a coincidence in this world?

Also, it was uncertain if they were unconscious. Look at how terrible the face of the soldier was. If they were truly unconscious, would the guards have such terrible expressions?

Hua Xi Wan looked at the Empress’ face that had rapidly drained of blood and sighed in sympathy. The Crown Prince was one who was foolish and continued to dig holes for his father and mother. He kept on going on the bad path and no one could surpass him.

“Do not speak nonsense—how can the Crown Prince and Li meiren be together? If you do not close your mouth, be careful of your head,” Sheng Junwang Fei suddenly said harshly. “Quick, go in and check again.”

After saying this, she ignored how ugly the Empress’ expression was and said directly, “Empress, why don’t we also go in to see what is going on? Maybe there is a misunderstanding?”

The Empress was unable to breathe. Looking at Hou shi’s considerate smile, she wanted to slap the other, but she could not do that.

Fortunately, Princess Rui He reacted the quickest and responded, “There must be a misunderstanding in this matter. It is not good for us womenfolk to go see. Why don’t we have this captain go see and clarify the misunderstanding?”

The word “clarify” was emphasized. Princess Rui He was warning the captain to recognize the circumstances. Even if the captain was discontent, he could not say no. But before he could walk close, Li meiren suddenly charged out of the room with disheveled clothing and heavily crashed onto the wall. With a muf led sound, the blood sprayed the entire wall.

The wall had been freshly painted to welcome the Emperor’s arrival for prayer. Li meiren’s blood covered a large part of the wall and also stained her pink dress.

Li meiren had not said a word, but it won over tens of thousands of words. Her suicide against the wall was a silent complaint that caused the Empress to be unable to suppress the matter.

As Li meiren fell down, some of the womenfolk in the Imperial House screamed and those less courageous even fainted.

Princess Rui He felt extremely cold. She listened to the screams in the surroundings and had a feeling that the trouble would be major this time.

Forcing his father’s consort—if a matter like this spread, the Crown Prince… would be over.

Hua Xi Wan looked at Ning shi who was swaying beside her and started to sway as well. She closed her eyes and then dropped.

“Wang Fei, Wang Fei!” Bai Xia reached out to hold Hua Xi Wan and said in fear, “Wang Fei, what is wrong?”

Bai Xia’s acting skills would receive a full score, Hua Xi Wan thought as she was supported by her servant girls.

Then she heard the worried shouts of Ning shi’s servant girls.

All right, beside every mistress who could act, there would be servant girls who would cheer her on. One should praise their professionalism.

In her mind, the bloody lower that bloomed on the wall was unusually clear, so clear that she could draw with her eyes closed how the blood had sprayed.

Translator Ramblings: Retaliation comes. Hua Xi Wan really trained her girls well.

坑爹太⼦ 坑

The title of the chapter in Chinese is “ ”. can mean a hole, a pit, to harm others by scheming or cunning. In this chapter, the crown prince harmed his father in two different ways.

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Chapter Fifty-Two: Everyone Is A Good Actor

“What did you say?” When Qilong Emperor heard the guard’s report, he was so angry he almost fainted. But he still remembered what the setting was, so he stood up and bowed to the master of the Three Pure Monastery. “Spiritual Master, I probably cannot continue our match.”

The monastery master smiled as he stood up and said, “Playing weiqi is a pastime. Your Majesty, please act at your leisure.”

Qilong Emperor was not in the mood to converse with the monastery master. He hurriedly left the inner room and walked towards the Western Yard. When he arrived, all the women present had drawn back into the rooms. The Crown Prince had dressed. Li meiren had been pulled down, and the only eye-catching mark that remained was the blood on the wall.

Li meiren was one of the women whom the Emperor had been favoring recently. Otherwise, she would not have been included among the people coming on this trip. But now his own son had slept with his concubine, and his concubine had committed suicide in front of the womenfolk of the Imperial House. No matter how much power he had, he would not be able to stop the mouths from talking. Kill all the womenfolk present? If he really did that, then tomorrow, it would be someone else ruling the Great Zhao Dynasty.

The people who came after him included Ning Wang, Xian Wang, Sheng Junwang, Xu Wang Shizi and others. Ning Wang was in the Crown

g g g g Prince’s camp, but he was illed with regret about this matter that had just occurred. Why had he been bewitched at the beginning and joined the Crown Prince’s camp?

As a son, forcing the death of a shu mother implied that his conduct was lacking. He was also seen by so many womenfolk, not to mention the many guards who were present at the scene. This matter would be impossible to conceal, unless everyone present was on the Crown Prince’s side.

But was that possible? Because the Crown Prince had been too arrogant these past years, he had offended many members of the imperial clan, not to mention that there were people outside who said that the miscarriage of Sheng Junwang Fei was related to the Crown Prince Fu. With Sheng Junwang’s status in court, how could he let this matter pass?

“How are the women—have they been frightened?” Ning Wang saw the situation and could only avoid the serious matter. He asked about the womenfolk who had been at the scene.

“Ning Wang Ye, a few of the noble ones were frightened and fainted. The Grand Doctors have come to take their pulse,” a guard replied.

Yan Jin Qiu who heard this asked in a natural manner, “How is Xian Wang Fei?”

Because Xian Wang‘s love for Xian Wang Fei was known in Jing, the guard was not surprised. He immediately responded, “Xian Wang Fei fainted in fright and has been helped into the room to rest.”

“En.” Yan Jin Qiu’s brow furrowed. His feet shifted a few times and then he stood still.

The guards saw Xian Wang appear as though he wanted to enter the room and couldn’t help but think, if it wasn’t that there were other women in the room, Xian Wang would have probably entered the room now. As expected, hearing was not as good as seeing. Xian Wang really was in deep love with his wang fei.

“You bastard!”

The shout from the Emperor frightened the guard into bowing his head and holding his breath.

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu looked over and saw that the Emperor had kicked the Crown Prince, who stumbled back a few steps. If it wasn’t that two young taijian were supporting him, he probably would have fallen to the loor.

“You do not need to hold this bastard. Zhen will end him today.” The Emperor was extremely enraged. He took out a blade from the waist of the guard behind him and went to chop at the Crown Prince. Ning Wang saw that the situation was far from good, and hurriedly knelt in front of

the Emperor, grabbing onto the other’s legs with his two hands. “Emperor, do not be angry…”

Before he could inish speaking, the Emperor kicked at his face. As he fell to the loor, he heard the angry shout of the Emperor, “Why should zhenkeep this bastard? It is better for him to die cleanly.”

Ning Wang lay on the ground and did not get up. He touched his face and thought dejectedly, Kill him if you want. It wasn’t his son, and the one who would not have any grandchildren would not be him. If the other was killed, this would all end, and he would not have to clean up after this foolish Crown Prince.

Hearing the wails and sobbing in the surroundings, Ning Wang who was near ifty appeared as though he was going to lie on the ground and sink through it. He had tried. If the Emperor regretted killing his son, then the blame could not be laid on his head.

After he listened for a while and the Emperor still hadn’t killed the Crown Prince, Ning Wang suddenly felt slightly disappointed. It would be very good if the Emperor really killed the Crown Prince; then, he would not have to face such a stupid person.

It was fated that Ning Wang‘s wish could not be ful illed, because as the Emperor had kicked aside a dozen or so people as he held the blade and neared the Crown Prince, the Empress appeared.

The Empress knelt with a bang in front of the Emperor and said with a tear- illed face, “Emperor, qie knows that the Crown Prince has committed a great mistake this time, but can you spare him from death as he is your son? Qie only has this one son, and he is qie‘s life.”

Your son is your life, then isn’t Li meiren the life of her parents? Ning Wang felt the ground was slightly hard and changed into a slightly more comfortable position as he moaned and grunted. He needed to let the people in the surroundings see that it was not that he was not going to restrain the Emperor, but that he was too old and could not get up after falling.

Yan Jin Qiu silently looked at Ning Wang who was groaning in pain but had a red face. He smiled coldly. This was really an old fox. He looked down and saw the footprint of the Emperor on the bottom of his own robe from where the Emperor had kicked him, and he sat down on the ground with an expression of pain. Then he covered his leg and inhaled sharply.

The Emperor was in the prime of his life, and was strong and vigorous. After this kick, he felt great pain when he tried to walk.

Ning Wang and Yan Jin Qiu’s gazes met in the air, and then both moved their eyes away in mutual understanding.

“Emperor, please, spare the Crown Prince’s life based on the love between us for so many years.” The Empress’ makeup was ruined, her

hairpins a mess. She had lost her composure in front of these people, but for her, what was most important was her son who was behind her.

The Crown Prince was dizzy from being kicked by the Emperor. Seeing the Empress kneeling in front of him, his mind gradually cleared and he knelt down beside the Empress. He sobbed out, “Father-Emperor, this son is innocent. This is someone else’s plan. How could this son ever commit such an outrageous action? Father-Emperor, please investigate thoroughly!”

The Empress also knew that the matter was ishy. If Li meiren was alive, this matter would not be so troublesome but Li meiren had died, and moreover, by committing suicide in front of so many people.

Even if the investigation revealed that the Crown Prince had not done this, how many of the public would believe this? Most people would say that they were trying to protect the Crown Prince, and Li meiren was pitiful for losing her life at such a young age.

If the Crown Prince’s conduct had been orderly and if he was a hardworking person, then even if such a matter occurred, as long as the matter was cleared up, no one would suspect him. Even if the mystery was not solved, people would unconsciously think that this was the result of scheming.

But the Crown Prince… Regardless of whether he was connected to this matter, in the eyes of other people, he was de initely involved in this matter.

The Empress could think of this, and the Emperor could as well. He turned to look at the people behind him. Which one was the person who did this?

Was this person forcing him to abolish the Crown Prince?

But if the Crown Prince was deposed, who could he give his throne to? Those nephews who were prowling about?

It would not be so simple!

“Investigate! Any person who has come to the Three Pure Monastery cannot leave—all of them have to stay for zhen.”

The Emperor’s words meant that everyone present was a suspect. But the Crown Prince who was on the bed with Li meiren did not have any problem?

All those present were part of the Imperial House. When they heard the Emperor’s words, their expressions became strange. So the culprit did not have any problems, but they, the innocent passersby, were guilty?

After Qilong Emperor said this, he regretted it. When he turned and saw that the expressions of the Imperial House members were not good, he sighed dispiritedly. “Someone come and take the Crown Prince into the Heavenly Prison. Before the matter is investigated, he cannot be released.”

“Father-Emperor?!” The Crown Prince looked in disbelief at the Emperor. What kind of place was the Heavenly Prison? He, the Crown Prince, was being imprisoned in the Heavenly Prison. Would he have any face after this?

However, the Empress knew that the Emperor’s actions were protecting the Crown Prince. Otherwise, the Imperial House members would feel discontent. She could only watch as the guards took the Crown Prince away.

“It is late now. Everyone, return with zhen to Jing.” Qilong Emperor did not mention the “cannot leave.” He then sighed emotionally. “This bastard is so, zhen feels very unhappy inside.”

What could the people say? They could only comfort him, ease his mind, and say that the matter would be clari ied.

It was unknown what these people really thought.

In any case, the news that the Crown Prince had raped his shu mother spread through Jing. In these rumors, the Crown Prince had an image as

a lusty and useless person. He saw Li meiren‘s beauty and had evil intentions. He took Li meiren and caused Li meiren to commit suicide.

Li meiren‘s death caused the Crown Prince to appear as a “rapist.” No matter what the truth was, this was the Crown Prince’s image.

But even if the Crown Prince was so absurd, the common people could only accept it. The Emperor only had this one son, and in the end, the only person who could succeed the throne was the Crown Prince.

##

Because the Xian couple was wounded and frightened, they were carefully ushered back to the wang fu. An hour later, the Emperor sent over replenishing medicines.

Hua Xi Wan looked at the bruise on Yan Jin Qiu’s shin. She sighed and said, “The Emperor really kicked hard.”

“He is also just acting. If he really wanted to kill the Crown Prince, who would dare to stop him? He is just acting for all of us.” Yan Jin Qiu put down his pants and said, “I hear that you think that Sheng Junwang Fei was acting strangely?”

Hua Xi Wan called a servant to get a basin of hot water for Yan Jin Qiu to wash his wound before she said, “After the event occurred, Tang Saohad intentions of leading us to see what happened in the room. However, the guards got there irst, so she did not do it.”

“So something like this happened.” Yan Jin Qiu’s brow creased. Was it the Sheng Junwang couple who did it? But with Yan Bo Yi’s moves, it should not be so crude and brutal.

He glanced at Hua Xi Wan, saying, “Rest early. We do not have to think about this matter now.”

In any case, this did not have anything to do with them at this time.

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Chapter Fifty-Three: The Empress’ Hate

The Empress hated Hou shi greatly. Especially when she heard that the Crown Prince was not eating and sleeping well in the prison, she hated to the point that she wanted to skin Hou shi to sate her hate.

How could there be such a coincidence in the world? Just when they were preparing to leave, they heard the scream of the palace attendant, and then they saw the palace attendant say ambiguous words. The Crown Prince was a lusty person, but he knew that the monastery was not a place to play. Also, Li meiren was the Emperor’s woman. Even if the Crown Prince had the intentions, he would not have the bravery.

How could there be such a coincidence? The guards found the Crown Prince and Li meiren with disheveled clothing in the room, and then Li meiren crashed into the wall in suicide before the Crown Prince appeared in everyone’s view. It seemed that someone was purposefully waiting for them to discover this, and to have so many people see it so that the Crown Prince could not be protected even if they wanted to.

Li meiren was the straw that broke the camel’s back. The Emperor had exceptionally favored Li meiren recently, which was why he had taken her along on such an important event like praying for the Empress Dowager. Many of the consorts in the inner palace who were more experienced than her had never had such an honor before.

This was a woman who had skill. The irst thing she should have done when she encountered an event like this was to think how to resolve it

rather than commit suicide. This did not it Li meiren’s personality. However, the attendants of the palace said that Li meiren’s body really showed signs of lovemaking, so who had done this?

The Empress thought of Hou shi’s miscarriage. It was true that she had participated in this matter, but this had been very well-concealed. Hou shi should not have detected this. If it wasn’t for this, why would Hou shi retaliate against the Crown Prince?

But other than the Sheng couple, who would have the ability to set up such a trap? Xian Wang had a good reputation in Jing, but he did not like to participate in matters of governance. Even if he wanted to conspire like this, he would not have the connections.

In conclusion… it was Sheng Junwang Fu!

That whore Hou shi! The Empress was so angry that she smashed quite a few teacups. If it wasn’t for that whore, her son would not have to suffer so. Was a place like the Heavenly Prison one where the Crown Prince who had grown up in luxury could stay in?

The more she thought, the angrier she was. The Empress smashed a few more porcelain objects and then thought of the palace attendant. The scream of the palace attendant had not seemed like one of fear, but to attract the attention of the womenfolk, so it had been exceptionally shrill.

“Empress.” Zhao Dong hurriedly walked in from outside. As though he did not see the smashed porcelain on the ground, he bowed respectfully towards the Empress. “Empress, the identity of the palace maid has been found, but…”

“But what?” The Empress had a bad feeling, and her temple couldn’t help but throb.

“The palace maid is gone.” Zhao Dong bowed his head and did not dare to look at the Empress’ expression. “The palace maid was found this morning having committed suicide in her room. She also left behind a letter.” Zhao Dong took out two sheets of paper. “This letter is something that this small one went to the Judicial Of ice to copy. Niangniang, please read.”

After the empress took the papers and read them, she was so angry she slammed the papers on the table. “What is this she ‘did not see the Crown Prince and Li meiren lying together, and she would use her lowly life in exchange for the peace of her family’?!”

This letter seemed to be on the side of the Crown Prince, but in truth, it was pulling him into the mud. In any person’s eyes, it seemed that the palace maid could not stand up under the threats of those of the Crown Prince’s side and worried for her family, so she committed suicide.

“Good, very good.” The Empress took a few deep breaths before saying, “These people just do not want to leave a path for my son. Bengong

wants to see who has the ability to steal the things from my hand that belong to my son.”

The Empress knew that, after this matter, even if the Crown Prince could succeed the throne, he would leave behind in history a mark on his reputation. Right now, everyone in Jing knew of this matter and it could not be concealed. What she was more worried about was those wang ye would use these excuses to rebel after her son took the throne. If this matter was not investigated to the bottom, then it would cause endless trouble in future.

But even if the matter was cleared, would the people believe it?

When the Empress thought about this, the anger in her mind eased greatly. She asked, “Who is responsible for this case?”

“It is Of icial Zhang of the Judicial Of ice, as well as Assistant Minister Of icial Huang.”

“Of icial Huang?” The Empress said after a moment, “Huang Wei?”

“Exactly this person. Of icial Zhang was in the Guard Of ice in the past. Later on, due to the case of Lin Ping Junma’s assassination, he was moved to the Judicial Of ice to investigate this case.” In order to show his abilities in front of the Empress, Zhao Dong had investigated all these matters before he reported to the Empress.

After the Empress heard this, she sighed in relief. Huang Wei was someone of their side, and that Of icial Zhang did not seem to be someone important. Otherwise, he would not have been pushed out when they were looking for a scapegoat. Everyone knew just how troublesome the case of Lin Ping Junma was. Being pushed out to investigate this matter at this time meant that there was no one helping him from behind the shadows, and he had to take this hard task.

She did not worry about a person like this, so she sighed and said, “Bengong knows. Take some things to the Crown Prince. Bengong is worried that the Crown Prince is not used to the Heavenly Prison.”

“Yes.” Zhao Dong retreated.

After he walked out the door, and there was no one around, he shook his sleeves. Was there anyone who was used to the things inside the Heavenly Prison?

Even though Lin Ping Junma had been assassinated, the daytime lives of the people was not affected, and it was as busy as usual.

In order to avoid disturbing the people, Yan Jin Qiu had the carriage take a detour to return to the fu. But when the carriage had gone half the way, a carriage appeared heading towards them.

“This subject Zhang Hou greets Xian Wang Ye.” Zhang Hou had not expected to meet the carriage of Xian Wang Fu on a side-street, so he came down from the carriage to bow towards Yan Jin Qiu.

“Of icial Zhang, there is no need for such courtesy.” Yan Jin Qiu walked down from the carriage and reached out to help him up. He took a few steps back and said, “Of icial Zhang looks less well compared to a few days ago; you must have had hard days recently.”

“It is an honor as a subject to share the burden for the monarch, therefore this subject does not ind it hard.” With the case that he was investigating now, it was not good for Zhang Hou to walk too closely to members of the Imperial House. Therefore, when the two were speaking, they remained a few paces apart. “Wang Ye, thank you for your concern.”

The two said a few more words before they got on their respective carriages and left. In anyone’s view, this seemed to be a coincidental meeting and the two sides were very stand-of ish, polite yet unfamiliar.

Though such a major event had occurred, Hua Xi Wan became even more idle. No one had sent any invitations these two days for her to attend any banquets, nor sought her for a chat. She was happy to be at such leisure.

But not long after she became idle, she saw Bai Xia come in.

“Mistress, Sheng Junwang Fei has come.”

Hua Xi Wan was shocked. Sheng Junwang Fei had never sent a card to her before, so why had she suddenly came? This really did not seem like something Hou shi would do. In the past, Sheng Junwang Fei had been perfect in every aspect and would not misstep on this kind of etiquette.

Thinking about Sheng Junwang Fei’s exceptionally bright eyes when they had gone to the Three Pure Monastery, Hua Xi Wan touched the buyao in her hair and said with pursed lips, “Quick, invite her in.”

The other had arrived at the wang fu already, and Hua Xi Wan could not throw her out. If she really did so, then Jing would become even busier.

After thinking, she called a few servant girls to go serve in the guest room.

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侧妃

[1] cefei: ce means “side,” therefore cefei is literally a wang‘s “side fei,” akin to a secondary wife. Among a wang‘s consorts, cefei is the highest rank below the wangfei (the principal wife). A wang can have two cefei.

Chapter Fifty-Four: Pity

After Hua Xi Wan changed her clothing, she hurried with her servant girls to the guest hall. When she saw Hou shi’s appearance, she couldn’t help but feel shocked. After exchanging greetings with Hou shi, Hua Xi Wan sat down.

In the past, Hou shi had always been full-cheeked and of a healthy appearance, but meeting her now, Hua Xi Wan found that the other was extremely thin and her cheeks were sunken in. Her cheekbones were extremely evident and her lips slightly pale. Only that pair of black eyes was bright, and caused Hua Xi Wan’s heart to shudder.

“Saozi, are you all right? How come you are so thin?” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “You are still so young—you have to take care of your body. If your health deteriorates, it is not good.”

Hou shi laughed softly. “I’m not afraid, and I feel that my health has been very good recently. A igure like wang fei is one that the women of Jing admire.” In reality, Hua Xi Wan was not a slender person, but her igure looked beautiful and many young females in Jing copied her.

However, Xian Wang Fu was noble, and Hua shi was from a prestigious family. The things in her dowry were not those that normal people could rival. The hair adornments, the jewelry, grand clothing and gourmet food—many women wanted to copy Hua Xi Wan’s style, but they only copied the insigni icant details and were a joke.

Hou shi felt scorn towards the females of some prestigious families. When the rumor had been that Hua Xi Wan was a woman without beauty, those people had one face. Now that Hua Xi Wan was a wang fei and deeply favored by Xian Wang, and had Yi’an Marquis Fu at her back, Hua Xi Wan became the object of admiration. These were really people who blew with the wind. There were also some women who acted as though they were virtuous, criticizing Hua Xi Wan for being wasteful, unable to manage a household and ruining the good reputations of women.

Those people acted as though they felt pity and pain, but they forgot that this was a matter of someone else. It was just a group of women who only had respectful relationships with their husbands and could not bear to see other people living better than they did.

What was the use in being virtuous? So what if one was good at managing a household and being frugal? When a man did not like you, being virtuous was called being old-fashioned, being frugal was called being ungenerous. If they liked you, wearing gold was called being noble, being spoiled was called an act of lirtation. In reality, there were not many things that one should not do—what mattered was only whether one liked the other or not.

In the past, Hou shi could not see this, and did not dare to think about these things. Now that her body was damaged due to her miscarriage and she would never be able to have a child, as her husband took a cefei[1], what she received was only a “you will be the most noble mistress in the wang fu.”

Her husband was in bed with other women, and in the future, his children would not be hers. She was like a rare object placed on a shelf. She looked valuable, but in reality, she was useless. What was the use in being the most noble mistress?

A few decades ago, there had been a wang ye of the Yan Clan whose body was injured and unable to make a woman pregnant. Consequently, he only ever had the wang fei as the only woman until he died. Countless people had admired this wang fei and praised this wang ye for being deeply in love and righteous in his conduct.

Now that she was unable to become pregnant, even as Junwang Ye took a cefei, many people sympathized with him for being unable to have a legitimate di son. It was as though he was undergoing a great slight.

Then what was she worth? She who had schemed for Junwang Ye, and inally lost the ability to have children because of Junwang Ye’s enemies —what was she worth?

How unfair were the Heavens towards women?! The world was so laughable. Her love for Junwang Ye became the best joke.

Hua Xi Wan saw that Hou shi’s mood was not quite right and pushed a plate of refreshments. “Saozi, taste this lotus leaf cake. The Food Room made this recently; I think it is acceptable.”

Hou shi picked up a small piece and nibbled. She said with a smile, “The fu’s chefs have very good skills: sweet but not nauseating, the lotus fragrance is faint. It is not just acceptable, I think it is delicious.”

“Bai Xia, remember to reward this chef well. It is his good fortune to be praised by Saozi,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “Saozi, it is rare for you to come to this poor home. How about we walk around the yard?”

“That is good.” Hou shi clapped and said with a smile, “I see that the scenery inside the wang fu is elegant and was just thinking of a reason to take a tour. Now that Wang Fei has invited me, it is a great matter.”

The two walked out of the guest hall hand in hand and then walked towards the garden. The further she walked, the more Hou shi felt that the Xian Couple were really people who enjoyed life. There was a new thing to see with every step in the garden, all kinds of lowers blooming, red and purple. No wonder Hua shi was so con ident in inviting her to the garden.

In the end, the two sat down in the pavilion at the center of the lake. The pavilion was surrounded on all sides by water. All the lotus lowers had bloomed and fallen, but the lake had been cleaned up well. There was no rotting matter to be seen. Some water lowers loated on the surface and it was extremely poetic to see.

“An immortal’s home would just be so,” Hou shi exclaimed emotionally. “Compared to Wang Fei, my life has been nothing.”

The true matter had come now.

Hua Xi Wan scattered some ish feed in the water. Looking at the gold ish competing for food in the water, she said with a smile, “Saozi, where do these words come from?”

“I just feel slightly emotional.” Hou shi put down the teacup and looked at the gold ish swimming freely in the water. There was a sad and bitter expression on her face. “I am unable to have a child, and unable to live idly like you, so what is the meaning in life?”

Hua Xi Wan showed a shocked expression and did not even notice when the ish food in her hand dropped into the water. “Saozi, you…”

“A few days ago, the grand doctor came and said that it will be very dif icult for me to get pregnant in the future.” Hou shi’s expression became even more sorrowful, the rims of her eyes red as she said, “Tell me, what do I have to look forward to in this life?”

Hua Xi Wan had never seen Hou shi look like this. In her mind, Hou shi had always been digni ied and magnanimous, and would never show

such a weak expression in front of other people. She was very surprised at the other’s actions today.

Also, her relationship with Hou shi could only be considered average. Even if Hou shi had something on her mind, it was strange that Hou shi was telling her.

“Saozi, you cannot think like this. Maybe it is just that your body is weak now. When your body recovers, you will have a child.” Even though she did not know Hou shi’s intentions, but she could not feel any joy at seeing Hou shi unable to have a child. Why would a woman make things more dif icult for other women? “What you need to do now is rest your body, and not think of anything else.”

“Right now, I really do not want to think of anything else.” After Hou shi said this, she suddenly grabbed Hua Xi Wan’s wrist. “Wang Fei, I will help you step onto the noblest position if you can help me have my revenge!”

Hua Xi Wan’s expression changed. Fortunately, the servants in the surroundings were close to her. Otherwise, it would be worth an execution if Hou shi’s words spread. For a woman in this world, what was the noblest position other than the phoenix throne?

“Saozi, you have not been in a good mindset recently. Do not think nonsense.” Hua Xi Wan’s expression was stern as she said, “I did not hear what you said. Please, do not say such things in the future.”

Hou shi saw Hua Xi Wan’s complexion that was pale from fright and felt puzzled. She had once heard Junwang Ye say that Xian Wang was someone with great ambitions but a nonchalant appearance. Looking at Hua Xi Wan’s expression now, she didn’t even seem to dare to think about such a thing. Otherwise, she would not be so frightened.

Was it that Junwang was wrong, or that… Xian Wang was not truly in love with Xian Wang Fei?

Thinking about Hua Xi Wan’s paternal and maternal families, Hou shi instantly understood. She felt some sympathy for Hua Xi Wan. So Xian Wang was also the same?

With Hua shi’s beauty, if she married into an average noble family, she would be someone who would be cared for greatly. Now that she was married to Xian Wang, regardless of whether she was truly loved or not, she was probably going to be used by Xian Wang. When she saw Hua Xi Wan acting as though she didn’t know how to move from fright, she did not want to make things dif icult for the other. She rubbed the corner of her eye and said, “Dimei, do not pay any attention. My mind is slightly muddled.”

Hua Xi Wan said hesitantly, “Saozi, I should not be the one saying this, but as women, I really do not bear to see you going on like this.” She sighed and held Hou shi’s hand. “Listen to me—do not waste your mind on other matters. Take care of your body, be better to yourself; this is better than anything else.”

Hou shi knew that Hua Xi Wan’s words were sincere, but since she had walked to where she was now, there was no way for her to turn back. Her husband only had respect for her, but no love. She could not even have a child as a comfort. There was nothing in her life to think about, nothing to hope for.

“The time is late; I should return home.” Hou shi stood and smiled at Hua Xi Wan. She said, “Thank you, but now that it is like this, there is nothing that I can think of. Dimei, you have more luck than I do…” I hope that you will not end up like me—Hou shi could not say the words. She might sympathize with Hua Xi Wan, but Xian Wang Fu and her Sheng Junwang Fu were people on different sides.

When Hou shi sat on the sedan and came out of Xian Wang Fu, she coincided with Yan Jin Qiu coming back to the fu on the carriage. She observed through the curtain, sighed and moved her gaze away.

Yan Jin Qiu felt slightly surprised when he heard that Sheng Junwang Fei had come to the fu. Today, Yan Bo Yi had taken two cefei. Even though it was not a major matter, it really did not seem like Sheng Junwang Fei to not be present in the fu for such an event.

Everyone in Jing knew that Sheng Junwang Fei was intelligent and virtuous. It really was unbelievable that she would act like this today.

Originally, Hua Xi Wan did not know why Hou shi would come out of the blue and then leave. When she learned from Yan Jin Qiu that Sheng

Junwang was taking cefei, she inally knew what happened. No wonder Hou shi lost her composure.

It was a fatal blow when Hou shi learned that she was unable to become pregnant after her miscarriage. Yan Bo Yi taking two cefei was cutting off the last of Hou shi’s hopes. A woman without any hope would only walk two paths. One was madness, the other was silence.

Hou shi hated the Crown Prince and his side for causing her infertility, and naturally would not become silent. Therefore, her only choice was going mad.

“Don’t they say that Sheng Junwang is unaffected by beauty? Why is he in such a hurry to take concubines?” Hua Xi Wan asked with a furrowed brow. “How can Tansao endure this?”

Yan Jin Qiu said sarcastically, “He wants to have a son before the Crown Prince. Now that Tangsao is unable to have a child, he is naturally in a hurry to take concubines.” Otherwise, why would he take two cefei at once?

Hua Xi Wan thought of Hou shi’s red-rimmed eyes and thin appearance as well as the black and glittering eyes. She sighed. “It really is a pity.”

It was a pity for this woman who dug out her heart for her man.

Yan Bo Yi’s heart was too large and held too many things. Even if a woman like Hou shi sacri iced everything for him, in his mind, she was just a woman.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Fifty-Five: Heart To Heart

“Awake?” Yan Jin Qiu laughed lowly as he looked at the person in his arms. He glanced at the color of the sky outside the window; it was almost evening. Because of Hou shi, Hua Xi Wan’s mood did not seem good, so Yan Jin Qiu had pulled her onto the bed. After seeing Hua Xi Wan fall asleep, his worries were put to rest.

He had been worried that the matters of Hou shi would affect Hua Xi Wan, as Hou shi and Hua Xi Wan had been decreed marriage into the Imperial Family at the same time, only Hou shi had been earlier and she later. Hou shi was in such terrible circumstances right now, and he was worried that Hua Xi Wan would relate it to herself.

However, she was not Hou shi and he was not Yan Bo Yi.

“En.” Hua Xi Wan put her head on his chest. She did not feel like moving. “I do not want to get up.”

Yan Jin Qiu saw her like this and wrapped his arms around her waist. He said with a smile, “Then don’t get up if you do not want to.” It was rare for him to see Hua Xi Wan like this, and Yan Jin Qiu naturally would not ruin the mood.

Maybe it was because this chest was slightly warm that Hua Xi Wan felt that she did not feel so repelled by Yan Jin Qiu. Or rather than saying

that she felt repelled by Yan Jin Qiu, it would be more accurate to say that she was repelled by this marriage that was unequal between the sexes. Because she knew the reality was so, she docilely accepted this marriage, but because of her emotions deep inside, she would not feel true love for Yan Jin Qiu, her husband.

Maybe, even if she could not give her love, she should treat Yan Jin Qiu better as he did not have any concubines right now, and had not done anything wrong to her.

In more common words, he didn’t owe her anything.

“I never thought I would marry into the imperial clan,” Hua Xi Wan said with a sigh. “From childhood, I always felt that I would marry into a normal prestigious family and be a slightly valiant mistress, have normal and lazy days. When I got old, I would play with my grandchildren and be idle.”

Yan Jin Qiu caressed her hair. He did not speak and only listened in silence.

“After the Emperor decreed marriage, I spent a month in my room, feeling out of sorts. Later, I thought that there isn’t any difference between men in the world. Even if I married into a minor family, a lustful man would still be lustful. The reason why I did not want to marry into the Imperial Family was because I was afraid it would be troublesome.” Hua Xi Wan turned her head towards Yan Jin Qiu and said as she looked at his chin, “We have been married for over half a year,

until now we’ve been probing each other’s bottom lines, and I suddenly feel there is no meaning in that.”

What was done was done, and anything else was useless. She knew this reality already, but she had just been unwilling.

Yan Jin Qiu looked at Hua Xi Wan’s eyes. He had not expected that she would state this openly. This was just as he had been anticipating all this time but felt would never happen. It caused him to feel happy yet not know what to do.

“Actually, from the irst day of marriage, I just wanted to ask you one thing.” Hua Xi Wan raised herself up and lipped over to lie on Yan Jin Qiu’s abdomen to stare down at him. She said with a smile, “Can I believe in you?”

Yan Jin Qiu focused on this pair of beautiful eyes. “From now on, even though I cannot tell you some things, I will not lie and fool you. Are… are you willing to walk with me?”

“What you said…?” Putting a hand on his chest to support herself, Hua Xi Wan bent down and kissed the corner of Yan Jin Qiu’s lips. “Why don’t we try?”

The future could not be predicted. They would give each other a chance, and at least, not leave any regrets.

After the sky turned dark, the servants carried the hot water into the room and did not dare to look inside. They left hurriedly, and inside, they thought, Wang Ye and Wang Fei have such a good relationship.

Bai Xia looked with urgency at the tightly closed door. After waiting for a long time outside, she gathered her courage. Walking to the doorway, she said, “Wang Ye, Wang Fei, this servant Bai Xia asks for an audience.”

“Come in.” The one who spoke was Wang Ye. Bai Xia carefully walked in and saw Wang Ye and Wang Fei sitting beside the table. Wang Ye was holding a towel and drying Wang Fei’s hair as she sat lazily. She didn’t seem to want to move a inger. Seeing her come in, she managed to raise her head. “Bai Xia, has something happened?”

Hua Xi Wan understood Bai Xia. If there wasn’t something special happening, she would not be so imperceptive as to appear in the room at this time.

“Wang Fei, Eldest Miss’ nursemaid has asked for an audience this afternoon. She said that Eldest Miss has had a miscarriage. This is a letter that Eldest Miss has written to you.” Bai Xia had heard from the tone of the nursemaid that the miscarriage of Eldest Miss was not an accident, but more like she had been angered by someone. But Second Taitai was not moved by this matter, so Eldest Miss had turned to write a letter to Wang Fei.

Hua Xi Wan’s expression changed. “What happened—didn’t she have a servant come say a few days ago that she just got pregnant? How come it is gone after just a few days?” With Hua Yi Liu’s personality, she would not send someone in the afternoon with a letter. This meant that this mama had tried everything to get out of the Zhou Fu and did not care if it was morning or afternoon.

She took the letter from Bai Xia’s hand, tore the envelope and took out the paper. She found the writing on the paper was rapid and messy. This meant that Eldest Sister’s body was weak when she was writing this, and nervous as though she was afraid someone would ind her.

After she read the entire letter, Hua Xi Wan’s expression changed to one of anger. “Eldest Sister has been slighted so heavily, and Second Taitai is not doing anything?”

Bai Xia shook her head. “This servant does not know.” Maybe Second Taitai was doing this for her good son.

“Nonsense!” Hua Xi Wan was so angry she slapped the letter onto the table. If not for the fact that Second Taitai was her elder, she would have started scolding already. Where in the world was there be a mother who did not do anything when her daughter had a miscarriage because she was angered by the son-in-law and the son-in-law’s concubine? Were the people in Jing going to laugh that their Hua Family did not have any people?

The path of an of icial career should be based on one’s own talents. Doing unorthodox things and sacri icing one’s daughter was something unpro itable. There were more than two hundred advanced graduates every three years in the Great Zhao Dynasty, but how many truly made it?

Good men should ight for their future based on their own skills. Second Taitai was not giving love, but harming her son.

“Send a letter to the marquis fu immediately. I will decide after asking Mother and Father’s opinion.” They had to manage Hua Yi Liu’s matter. Otherwise, this would be a terrible example for the other sons-in-law of the Hua Family.

If they wanted to make an example, then this Master Zhou would be good.

“Is your hand hurting from the blow?” Yan Jin Qiu pulled Hua Xi Wan over and rubbed her hand. Then he said, “It is not very troublesome to resolve this matter—why do you have to make yourself so angry?”

Hua Xi Wan said, “It is naturally easy to get rid of the Zhou Family, but I am worried this will affect Eldest Sister.”

“The Zhou Family does not have good family conduct, favors the concubine and neglects the wife. Not just Young Master Zhou, even Assistant Minister Zhou will be affected. He will not get to be the

examiner for the spring examinations next year.” Yan Jin Qiu lightly patted her back. “Since the Zhou Family is so, it is better for you elder sister to divorce and live somewhere else before marrying a few years later. In any case, someone else would be better than the master from the Zhou Family.”

“I cannot decide this matter. If Second Taitai is unwilling, it is useless regardless of what other people say.”

“If she is not willing, there is also your second uncle. Your second uncle is probably in the dark about this matter; you may want to go send someone to ask his opinion.” Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Xi Wan’s mood had stabilized and said with a smile, “I heard a few things about your second aunt and uncle ighting a few days ago. I heard that it was because Of icial Hua was not content with the marriage to the Zhou Family.”

“You are right.” Hua Xi Wan gave a smile. “I should send a letter to Second Uncle about this.”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Fifty-Six: Support

Hua Zhi Ming had been kept in the dark by Zhang shi. He had originally felt puzzled why Third Niece would have someone send a letter nearly at night to him as she was living harmoniously with Xian Wang.

After he read the letter, he was illed with both urgency and anger. In the end, it all turned into a sigh. The end of the letter mentioned that Assistant Minister Zhang could not manage his family properly, that he let his son favor the concubine and neglect the wife. It was likely that he would be demoted and investigated. The primary examiner of the spring examinations would probably change.

Next year, Qing Mao was going to attend the exams with Ding Chen from Eldest Brother’s family. It would actually be good if the examiner was changed. At least, no one would talk behind their backs that Qing Mao’s results came unfairly. He should not have agreed to Zhang shi marrying his daughter to the young master of the Zhou Family in the irst place. Otherwise, how would his daughter be suffering so?

“Come, give this letter to Qing Mao to read. Ask him if he is willing to help meet and bring his sister back tomorrow.” Hua Zhi Ming handed the letter to a trusted servant before sitting quietly in his room. Watching as the sky darkened, he waved away the servant who came in to light the lamp. He thought of Zhang shi, and of his son who had such hopes resting on him. In the darkness, he sighed heavily.

“Prepare a carriage.”

When Zhang shi heard that her husband had gone out, she asked the steward in shock, “Why is Laoye going out at this time—did he say where he was going?”

“Taitai, Laoye said before leaving that he was going to talk with the marquis at the marquis fu.” The steward did not say that Laoye had a terrible expression when he left, and did not dare to even mention it.

“So late, and he is going to the marquis fu.” Zhang shi’s brow furrowed as she said, “It is almost curfew. Is Laoye planning on spending the night in the marquis fu?”

The steward bowed his head and said, “Laoye did not say.”

“Nevermind.” Zhang shi knew that Laoye would not say so much to a steward, and did not inquire further. Just as she was preparing to have the steward leave, a servant came to report that the young master had come.

Zhang shi loved her son and would not bear for her son to wait outside. She hurriedly had the servant invite her son in. Seeing that his expression was not well, she asked worriedly, “Son, why is your expression so ugly? Is something wrong?”

“Mother, not me, but Jiejie is in trouble.” Hua Qing Mao was only a year and a half younger than his older sister, and the two had a very good and loving relationship. So when he saw the letter that Tangmei had sent, he was so angry he had smashed the cup in his hand. If it wasn’t for his manservant who stopped him, he would have gone to Assistant Minister Zhou’s fu already to take his jiejie back to the fu.

“Your jiejie…” Zhang shi’s smile froze. She then jerked the corner of her lips and said, “Your jiejie’s matter is an accident; do not worry so much. You are going to attend the spring examination next year—are matters of the inner compound things that men should manage?” Zhang shi thought of how Hua Ding Chen of the marquis fu was also going to attend the exams and felt extremely bothered. Her son would not lose to any person!

“Mother, you are still keeping it a secret for me. Jiejie miscarried out of anger because of Brother-in-law’s family. Aren’t you angry?” Hua Qing Mao really did not dare to believe that Mother was saying the matter of Jiejie’s miscarriage was a small matter. He looked in disbelief at Zhang shi. “She is your daughter, my jiejie.”

“Of course I know she is your jiejie.” Zhang shi waved her hand and had the servants in the room leave. She then lowered her voice and said, “But Assistant Minister Zhou is the examiner for next year’s examinations…”

“I do not care who he is!” Hua Qing Mao interrupted Zhang shi’s words and said angrily, “I only know that my jiejie has been treated cruelly by this family.”

“Child, you are so muddled.” Zhang shi saw that her son was really going to go to Assistant Minister Zhang’s fu to make a fuss and urgently said, “We can resolve your jiejie’s matter in the future. When you are accomplished, who will dare to bully her?”

“But I’m afraid before I become accomplished, Jiejie will be ruined by this family.” Hua Qing Mao lowered his head and his tone was slightly cool. “Also, if Jiejie’s matter is made public, Assistant Minister Zhou doesn’t even need to think of being the examiner next year.”

“What do you want to do?” Zhang shi stood and said harshly, “Qing Mao, do not be stupid.”

“Mother, I’m very clear of mind.” Hua Qing Mao raised his head to look at Zhang shi. “If I only advance by stepping on the heads of my relatives, then I do not want to advance at all because I cannot stand with a straight back and my head high.”

Zhang shi looked at her son who left in large strides and was dazed. A moment later, she thought of a more important matter. Who had told this to Qing Mao? If no one said anything, Qing Mao de initely would not know of this matter.

“Who came to see Laoye or the young master today?” Zhang shi found one of her trusted servants and asked.

“There was no one but…”

Xian Wang Fu had sent a letter to Laoye.

“Hua Xi Wan again.” Zhang shi spat. “That daughter of a whore keeps on ruining my good matters. It is horrid.”

The servant did not dare to speak and looked down on their feet.

The Zhou Fu was exceptionally busy today. There were several carriages that were parked at the gate. The young master of Assistant Minister Hua’s family had come with several carriages saying that he was returning the bride price of the Zhou Family and asking for a divorce.

It might have been that the people of the Zhou Family knew they were guilty, or for another reason, they did not open the door. This caused the bystanders to marvel.

While Hua Qing Mao was only seventeen, he was not of a rash nature. The Zhou Fu did not open the gates, but he did not make a fuss. He only bowed towards the main gates of the Zhou Fu and said, “Of icial Zhang, the young master of your fu has favored the concubine and neglected the wife, treating my sister cruelly and causing her miscarriage. I will not pursue this matter due to the past relationship with the Zhou Family. Today, this student has come to return the bride price the Zhou Family had put down, with the one request that the Zhou Family can let

my jiejie have a path to survival, and allow my sister to divorce the young master and for them to live separately.”

When the bystanders inished hearing the speech, they all inhaled sharply. So it was favoring the concubine and neglecting the wife, and they actually caused a child to pass away. This was too outrageous.

Wasn’t Assistant Minister Zhang a scholar—how could he raise such a son who did not even care for conduct and order?

If Hua Zhi Ming came to act like this, other people would feel he was pressuring the Zhou Family, but if Hua Qing Mao did this, other people would only think this was a youth who cared for his older sister. They would feel that the Zhou Family were bullies, abusing the daughter of another family while not daring to show their faces.

The Zhou Family had not expected Hua Qing Mao to mention that ugly affair in front of so many people. They instantly stopped pretending that no one was home. The nephew of Assistant Minister Zhou came out intending to invite Hua Qing Mao into the fu, but Hua Qing Mao refused.

“It would not be good to keep troubling the fu. Please, have my sister come out, and then come with me to the Ministry of Revenue to cancel the original certi icate of marriage. Therefore, no one will owe anything in this matter.”

The nephew of the Zhou Family saw Hua Qing Mao’s attitude and marveled inside. Was Hua Qing Mao intending to break off all relations with the Zhou Family? Otherwise, why would he have come with twice the bride price?

Now, he wasn’t even willing to enter the gates and allowed other people to listen to these words. Wasn’t this slapping the Zhou Family on the face?”

“Master Hua, really, you…” The nephew of the Zhou Family gave a smile and said, “Let’s go into the fu and discuss this. There is no matter that is unresolvable. It is not just us who look bad with this matter made public; it is not good for you as well.”

“The culprit doesn’t feel any shame, so how can I, the victim, feel embarrassment?” Hua Qing Mao avoided the hand of the Zhou Family’s nephew. “Please, let my sister come out.”

The nephew of the Zhou Family saw this and knew that the Hua Family was determined to burn bridges with the Zhou Family. He felt slightly unhappy. If Yi’an Marquis Fu came to make a fuss, then he would feel slightly intimidated, but he did not feel that there was any danger in offending this Assistant Minister Hua’s line.

“Ho, it is really busy here.” Just as the nephew of the Zhou Family was about to break the peace, he heard a sharp voice from nearby. He lifted his head to look and saw a carriage with the insignia of Xian Wang Fu

slowly coming towards them. There was a diagram of a iery phoenix on the procession; it seemed like the procession of a qinwang fei.

When he saw the person who had spoken, the nephew of the Zhou Family started to sweat. Wasn’t this Mu Tong, the chief steward taijian of Xian Wang Fu? Then the person who was sitting in the carriage could only be Xian Wang Fei who was deeply loved by Xian Wang.

When he remembered that Xian Wang Fei and Tangsao were of the same bloodline, the nephew of the Zhou Family knew the situation was not good. Now, even if the Zhou Family did not want a divorce, it was impossible. They would probably have to make it up to Assistant Minister Hua’s family. Otherwise, there would be great trouble.

“This student greets Xian Wang Fei with wishes of longevity and good health.” The nephew of the Zhou Family did not dare to dawdle and hurriedly went forward to bow. The people in the surroundings saw this and hurriedly took a few steps back in fear they would offend the noble personage. Watching a spectacle was a habit, but if they provoked something due to this, then it would not be good.

“There is no need for such courtesy. Please rise.” A soft female voice came out of the carriage. Even though people could not see her face, the people who heard this voice all felt that this person was a great beauty.

“I heard that my tangjie wants a divorce from your fu’s young master, so I have made a special visit today. Am I disturbing you two?”

“Tangmei, if Sister knows you are so concerned for her, she will cry in joy.” Hua Qing Mao was overjoyed. Originally, he had been worried the Zhou Family would play tricks. But now that Xian Wang Fei had appeared, they would have other things to consider.

“If that is the case, then please continue. I am just a woman and do not understand these major matters, so I will just listen from the side.” The voice from the carriage was still beautiful and warm as though she was just passing by.

The nephew of the Zhou Family had a face full of cold sweat. Turning, he gave a look to the manservants behind him for them to go immediately to notify Eldest Uncle and Aunt. Wang Fei had arrived, and if the Zhou Family members did not come to welcome her, it would not be acceptable. At that time, the Zhou Family wouldn’t just be guilty of favoring the concubine and neglecting the wife—they would also have the crime of slighting the Imperial Family.

“The wind is very strong outside. How about Wang Fei coming into the fu to rest for a moment?”

There was no movement from the carriage, and even the servants in the surroundings were silent. It was as though the words the nephew of the Zhou Family had said were a mirage and no one heard them.

The nephew of the Zhou Family smiled awkwardly and did not dare to speak any longer. He had no title or scholarly achievement; he really did not have the quali ications to welcome the wang fei.

Looking at the silent carriage, he sighed inside. His cousin really could ind trouble. Right now, they had offended the Hua Family. Whether or not the Zhou Family could overcome this obstacle depended on whether or not his tangsao would be willing to speak on their behalf.

However, as his cousin had done such a thing, even if Tangsao was of a gentle personality, she probably would not forget the pain of losing a child.

Oh, he was afraid that in the future, all the males of the Zhou Family would have problems making a match of matrimony.

When the Zhou Taitai heard that the son of Assistant Minister Hua had come, she had not kept it on her mind. When she heard the servant report that Xian Wang Fei’s carriage was at the gates, her expression instantly changed. She hurriedly walked towards the gates and said, “Invite your mistress to the guest hall. Remember to have her clean and attired before she sees the guests.”

That prodigal son really had provoked great trouble this time!

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

堂哥 tang ge: father’s brother’s (older) son

[1]

Chapter Fifty-Seven: Showing Weakness

Hua Yi Liu leaned back against the bedframe, her body thin and withered. The room was cool and quiet, as though she was the only person in the assistant minister fu. It was frighteningly quiet. Her servants who came as part of her dowry had been taken away by her good mother-in-law with all kinds of excuses, not leaving her any face at all.

She looked at the slightly dark sky outside. It appeared as though it was going to rain again, but what did the weather have to do with her? She was in her con inement period, restricted from even going out and having the wind blown on her, not to mention returning to her paternal family.

Paternal family? Hua Yi Liu thought of her paternal family and felt a wave of hatred. If it wasn’t for Mother who wanted her father-in-law to help her younger brother on his scholarly path, she would not have married such an absurd person, and ended up so terribly.

A wave of footsteps came from outside the door. Hua Yi Liu looked dully at the servant girls who pushed the door open and entered. The servant girls held jewelry and bright clothing in their hands, and had slightly nervous and respectful expressions.

Weren’t these the servant girls who were well-trusted by her motherin-law? What had frightened them so?

“Young Mistress, Taitai has ordered us servants to serve you in attiring and seeing guests.” The leading servant girl curtsied at Hua Yi Liu and indicated for the people behind her to help Hua Yi Liu change her clothing.

Hua Yi Liu’s mind shifted slightly. Had someone come to support her? Was it her father or her younger brother?

Or was it… Hua Xi Wan?

She knew very well that someone who could make the Zhou Family this nervous would be a person of great status. Her father had a good reputation in court, but it was not enough to make the Zhou Family so wary.

But how many people were willing to support her now? Her maternal family had received a title a few days ago, but that was done because the Emperor wanted to stop the mouths of the public and used it to placate her maternal grandfather who had just lost his only son. In reality, her maternal family just received an empty title.

Then it was either Eldest Uncle or Hua Xi Wan who came.

Hua Yi Liu did not resist. She allowed these servant girls to make her up and felt slightly urgent inside. She wanted to immediately leave this den of wolves and never return.

At this time, the main gates of the Zhou Family were wide open and everyone of status had come out to welcome the wang fei. After the entire fu knelt down in front of Hua Xi Wan’s carriage, Hua Xi Wan inally said, “Assistant Minister Zhou is a great scholar and should not give such a major greeting. Chief Steward Mu, help Assistant Minister Zhang up.”

The “great scholar” caused Assistant Minister Zhou’s face to redden in embarrassment. He usually did not pay attention to the matters of the inner compound. Even though he knew that Zhou Yun Heng was slightly outrageous in his conduct, he had not thought that his son dared to commit such a reckless action. With how matters stood now, this was not a marital coupling to tie together the families, but to create hatred.

Not even speaking of how much power the Hua Family had, and the prestigious families that had marital relationships with the Hua Family, just this beautiful wang fei about whom all in the Great Zhao Dynasty knew was someone whom their Zhou Family could not afford to offend.

Who did not know how much Xian Wang loved this wang fei? Offending this person was offending Wang Ye. Where could their Zhou Family afford to offend someone as noble as Xian Wang?

When he thought about this, Assistant Minister Zhou glared at Zhou Furen beside him. This ignorant and stupid woman dared to aid and tolerate Yun Heng doing such an evil thing. If the Zhou Family could not resolve this matter well, their estate of almost a hundred years would die in the hands of that evil creature.

“Of icial Zhou, please rise.” Mu Tong walked in front of Assistant Minister Zhou with a smile and reached out to help him. However, the other did not dare to really accept Mu Tong’s assistance. He said a word of thanks and then stood up. Because his rise was so sudden, he stumbled a few steps.

The nephew from the Zhou Family was behind him and saw this. He reached out to support Assistant Minister Zhou. “Eldest Uncle, careful with your feet.”

Mu Tong looked at this nephew of the Zhou Family. He raised his folded hands in a bow towards Assistant Minister Zhou and then walked back to stand next to the carriage.

“This subject was not good in teaching the son, and not strict in managing the family, and feels great guilt. This one does not have the face to accept the label of a great scholar. My sinful son was daring in his action, and if the in-laws want to punish him, do so according to your mood. This one only asks that the in-laws can look on the face of this old man and leave the son alive,” Assistant Minister Zhou said and turned to bow towards Hua Qing Mao who was a junior.

Hua Qing Mao was not willing to accept this bow. He had come with the intentions of settling the score of how the Zhou Family had slighted his sister, and he would not forgive Zhou Yun Heng so easily. So when Assistant Minister Zhou was bowing towards him, he moved aside and then made a deep bow. “This junior does not dare to accept such a great bow. My Hua Family is a poor and small household, and only asks for justice.”

Assistant Minister Zhou grimaced and knew that the Hua Family was not willing to settle. If the Hua Family was a poor and small household, then there would not be many prestigious families in Jing.

“No matter what, this old man will irst apologize to the in-laws. The wind is great outside—please, Wang Fei, Master Hua, come into the fu.”

Hua Qing Mao did not speak or move. He was waiting for Hua Xi Wan’s response.

“If that is so, then we can only trouble the fu. We will immediately discuss the matter of the divorce, but there is no reason to discuss it at the gates.”

The voice that came from inside the carriage was still soft and slow, but the words that were spoken did not show any sign of retreat.

At this time, Hua Chang Bao arrived on a carriage. Hua Chang Bao was the shizi of Yi’an Marquis Fu, the future Yi’an Marquis. His appearance

represented the position of the entire Hua Family.

Seeing this, Assistant Minister Zhou sighed inside. With today’s events, the Zhou Family did not just lose face—they would probably even lose their hundred years’ reputation.

After offending the Hua Family, they would have a dif icult time surviving in this Jing in the future.

“Greetings to Wang Fei.” Hua Chang Bao was Hua Xi Wan’s elder brother, but right now, there was a difference in status between them. After he got off the carriage, he bowed towards Hua Xi Wan.

Seeing this, Mu Tong hurried forward to hold Hua Chang Bao up. Who did not know of the good relationship between the three children of the Yi’an Marquis? If he really watched and stood by as Hua Chang Bao, the elder brother, bowed towards Wang Fei, Wang Fei would probably not feel good inside.

“Brother, what are you doing? We are siblings—where is the need for such courtesy?” The wang fei who had remained out of view all this time inally reached out a hand from the carriage. The servants put down the stool, grabbed the reins of the horses, and then went to support her.

When Xian Wang Fei stepped out of the carriage with the help of a green-robed servant girl, people sighed in shock on the inside. Such a

beautiful hand, such an exquisite igure! It was a pity that she was wearing a veil and they were unable to see the face of the beauty.

“Wang Fei, masters, come in.” Assistant Minister Zhou’s family did not dare to look, and welcomed Hua Xi Wan into the fu with bowed heads.

The procession walked in, and when they reached the main hall, Hua Xi Wan saw a young person with oily hair and a powdered face kneeling on the ground. The brocade clothing on his body was disheveled, and he was even bleeding from some places. It appeared as though he had just been beaten.

Hua Xi Wan glanced at Assistant Minister Zhou beside her. This man was willing to be vicious and beat Zhou Yun Heng to this state. Was it really because he was angry at the conduct of his son or was he just pretending for the sake of appearances?

When those unrelated to the matter left, there were only the three members from the Hua Family, Assistant Minister Zhou, Zhou Furen, and Zhou Yun Heng kneeling on the ground. Hua Xi Wan then allowed Bai Xia and Hong Ying to help her take down the veil. Under the invitation of Assistant Minister Zhou, she sat down on the guest seat. Hua Chang Bao and Hua Qing Mao sat down in order below her.

“Of icial Zhou, what are you doing?” Hua Xi Wan looked with a neutral smile at Zhou Yun Heng on the ground. “I heard that your fu has a concubine who is well-favored by Master Zhou. I wonder if I have the honor of seeing this beauty.” When she said this, her tone became cold.

“At least, let the Hua Family see which person has caused my Hua Family’s daughter to have a miscarriage, and have her servants sent off to the countryside. I wonder what great crime the daughter of the Hua Family has committed to be abused so by your Zhou Family. If the Zhou Family cannot give a reason, then why don’t we take this to the government of ice? The administrator of Jing City is a great justice and will be able to investigate this matter to the bottom. He will not slight your Zhou Family.”

Seeing Xian Wang Fei suddenly go on the offensive, Assistant Minister Zhou was pushed to the point that he had sweat on his forehead. Zhou Furen was so frightened that her ingers were trembling. Her heart also hurt at seeing her son suffering, and she was also afraid that it would be detrimental to her son’s future prospects if they offended Wang Fei. She could not think of any other solution at this moment and then knelt with a bang beside Zhou Yun Heng. “Wang Fei, subject-wife was not strict in managing the family, and has slighted Daughter-in-law. Please, Wang Fei, looking at the fact that my son and daughter-in-law are married, forgive him this once.”

“Zhou Furen, what are you doing? Does your fu think that this wang fei has come to force you?” Hua Xi Wan’s pale hand raised the lid of her teacup and then slammed it down. “If that is the case, then this wang fei will not speak at all to prevent any misunderstandings.” After she said this, she turned to Hua Qing Mao to say, “Tang Ge[1], how about you give this matter to the administrator of Jing to inspect? Tang Jie miscarried without any reason, and her servants either disappeared without a reason or were sent off to the countryside estate. This matter that involves a life should be best given to the government to investigate.”

“Wang Fei, you misunderstand; this subject and Wife do not mean this.” Assistant Minister Zhou saw that Xian Wang Fei was already angry and hurried forward to say, “This subject will get someone to bring that concubine immediately.”

Hua Xi Wan held the teacup and did not speak. Hua Chang Bao trailed a inger along the rim of a teacup with a faint smile. His gaze moved around the decorations in the main guest hall as though the objects were rarities in the world and were worthy of this heir to the marquis fu to look at closely.

When Zhou Yun Heng heard that his father was bringing his most beloved concubine, he instantly became excited. He could not keep his apologetic posture and raised his head to make a fuss. When his gaze landed on Hua Xi Wan who was seated, the anger inside disappeared immediately. His eyes could not leave this Xian Wang Fei.

His gaze was too bold. A blue-robed taijian quickly went in front of him and said with an insincere smile, “This servant sees that Master Zhou does not have good eyesight—is there a need to ask a grand doctor to come take a look?”

Zhou Yun Heng inally realized—the person on the seat was Xian Wang Fei, someone he could not lust for. When he thought of this, he felt slightly regretful. It was such a pity that he could not look longer at such a beauty.

At the side, Hua Chang Bao’s expression darkened and he said coldly, “It seems that the master of your fu has not been educated enough. Assistant Minister Zhou, you should teach him again. Otherwise, it would not be good if he offends any noble personages.”

Assistant Minister Zhou also knew this bad habit of his son and was so angry at seeing his rash action that he went forward and kicked Zhou Yun Heng. “This lowly of icial will de initely educate this evil creature.”

Hua Chang Bao glanced at Zhou Yun Heng and then elegantly blew at the steam rising from the tea. He became the elegant and silent marquis fu shizi again.

A short while later, the concubine that Zhou Yun Heng favored the most was delivered. She was only wearing poor hemp clothing, and her hair was tied with a blue string. There were bruises on her face, and she did not seem like a favored concubine at all.

Seeing this, Hua Xi Wan smiled. This Assistant Minister Fu was very interesting. Even at this time, they were playing tricks. She wondered who they were acting for.

At this time, a steward hurriedly ran in and said, “Laoye, Furen, Xian Wang Ye has come.”

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Chapter Fifty-Eight: End of The Matter

Hearing that Xian Wang had come, Assistant Minister Zhou was irst shocked and then felt that this was to be expected. With Xian Wang Fei present, it was not strange that Xian Wang Ye would make a trip.

It was just as the people of the Zhou Family expected. After Xian Wang was welcomed in, he exchanged greetings with his brother-in-laws and his cousin-in-law before sitting together with Xian Wang Fei. Their hands were together and he would occasionally bend down to speak to Xian Wang Fei.

“What is going on?” Yan Jin Qiu smiled thinly at Zhou Yun Heng who was kneeling on the ground. He then turned and said to Assistant Minister Zhou, “Assistant Minister Zhou, what great crime has this noble master committed?”

Assistant Minister Zhou did not dare to state it. A moment later he said, “This lowly of icial was not good at teaching the son, and feels great guilt.”

“Assistant Minister Zhou is of good conduct and a rare good of icial; there is no guilt to speak of.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at Zhou Yun Heng who was kneeling obstinately on the ground. “However, this young master of yours really has been absurd in conduct. The news that he has favored the concubine and neglected the wife, causing his wife to miscarry, has spread through Jing. Tell me, how will this matter be resolved?”

Assistant Minister Zhou felt helpless and guilty. He said to Hua Qing Mao and Hua Chang Bao, “This lowly of icial will teach this prodigal son. I will have people send away all the concubines in the fu. Please…”

“I do not think that it is necessary. Otherwise, in the future, it will become that the daughters of my Hua Family have no tolerance.” Hua Qin Mao put down the teacup heavily and then pressed, “My sister has no fate with your son. Our Zhou and Hua families have had a friendship for so many years, but we need to part amicably. Please, agree to my sister divorcing from your son, and at least, save some face for when we meet in the future.”

The words were slightly threatening. If the Zhou Family was not willing to have a divorce, then the Hua Family would not rest. But the Zhou Family really did not want to divorce. If there was no divorce, the Hua Family would be constrained in their actions because Hua Yi Liu was still at the Zhou Family. If Hua Yi Liu left the Zhou Family, then the Zhou Family would not have anything to rely on.

“If Assistant Minister Zhou wants to make this matter a dispute, then we can only meet in the court of the Jing Administrator. I think that a divorce is possible.” Hua Chang Bao had seen what the Zhou Family was thinking, so when Assistant Minister Zhou hesitated, he threw out, “My Hua Family is not an able one, but for our misses, we are willing to go through some trouble.”

Hua Chang Bao who was the eldest of this generation of the Hua Family had spoken. This meant that the Hua Family was already very

discontent about this matter. Assistant Minister Zhou also knew that the matter had passed. Unless his daughter-in-law was unwilling, a divorce was certain.

“Young Mistress has arrived.”

Assistant Minister Zhou was joyful. When he turned and saw his daughter-in-law whom he had not seen for many days walk in, she was extremely thin, as though she would fall with a gust of wind. His brow creased. How had his furen abused this daughter-in-law—why hadn’t she thought of this daughter-in-law’s status?

“Bam!” The teacup was smashed onto the ground and shattered. Hua Qing Mao stood from the chair. Pointing at Zhou Yun Heng on the ground, he said, “Your Zhou Family is outrageous!”

The concubine kneeling on the loor shuddered. She wanted to get closer to Zhou Yun Heng, but she was pressed by two servants to the ground. There was also a handkerchief in her mouth that prevented her from speaking.

Zhou Yun Heng looked at how his favored concubine was being treated but did not dare to speak. He buried his head lower and wanted this matter to pass quickly. It would be ine even if this little concubine had to be sent away. Even if this one was gone, he could ind one better.

“This lowly servant Hua shi greets Xian Wang, Xian Wang Fei.” Hua Yi Liu’s cheeks were concave from being too thin. It caused her to look older than her years. When she looked at Hua Qing Mao, she had a complex expression in her eyes. Her eyes slowly turned red as she called, “Didi.”

“Jie.” Hua Qing Mao walked in front of Hua Yi Liu. Looking at her ashen complexion and thin body, he was so angry he wanted to strangle Zhou Yun Heng. He said with a cold smile, “Your Zhou Family is outrageous to treat my sister so!” After he said this, he started to pull Hua Yi Liu and walk towards the exit. “Let’s meet at the court of the Jing Administrator.”

The Zhou Family naturally did not dare to let Hua Qing Mao leave like this. They apologized and Zhou Taitai even knelt down in front of Hua Yi Liu. She gave countless promises and even said that the Zhou Family would only have one mistress, Hua Yi Liu, and there would not be any concubines.

“Ha.” Hua Yi Liu looked with a cold smile at Zhou Taitai kneeling in front of her. “You think your son is so good that I will stay with him even if I die? What women he has in the future has nothing to do with me. You are a woman yourself yet you abuse a daughter of another family so. Such a malicious mother-in-law—if I stayed here, not even my bones would remain.”

After saying all this, Hua Yi Liu knelt with a bang in front of Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan. “Hua shi is a victim of a crime. Please, Wang Ye, Wang Fei, help me. Ever since qie married into the Zhou Family, this one has been ilial to the in-laws above and cared for the younger sisters-in-law

below. Even if the husband is one that plays around, qie has never complained. But qie never expected that he would cause qie to lose the child. Qie was also prevented by this family from going out. It has been long since qie has seen the light of day. Please, help give justice to qie.”

The Zhou Family was astounded. They almost seemed to have never thought that the usually gentle Hua Yi Liu would do such a thing. She actually directly entered a con lict with the Zhou Family using her future as the stake.

It was not a major matter if a woman divorced and married again, but if one reported the in-laws, it would not be so easy to ind a match in the future. No family would be willing to have a daughter-in-law like this— maybe one day, they would also be reported.

But Hua Yi Liu did it and did not give herself any retreat. It was as though she wanted to drag the Zhou Family into death with her.

Zhou Taitai was afraid, but in front of Yan Jin Qiu, she did not dare to make any actions that would be offensive. She could only wring her wrists in distress about her past actions. Inside, she thought, if she knew that this would happen, she should have thought of a way to kill Hua Yi Liu when she miscarried. That would be better than the present situation.

“If that is the case, then let’s make a trip to the Jing Administrator.” Yan Jin Qiu put down the teacup and looked at Hua Xi Wan who had not spoken. “Let ben wang’s attendant accompany you there.”

Now that things had become like this, it was a matter between the Hua Family and the Zhou Family. As a wang ye, there was no reason for him to manage the affairs of another family’s inner compound, and this also applied to Hua Xi Wan. It really wasn’t worth a wang fei making a trip to a place like the court of the Jing Administrator.

Hua Qing Mao also knew this. Also, it was very generous that Xian Wang was willing to send an attendant with them. If Tangmei was not so loved by Xian Wang, Xian Wang probably would not do such a thing.

Hua Yi Liu looked at her embroidered slippers. When she heard that Yan Jin Qiu would not accompany them to the Jing Administrator, a trace of a grimace came onto her lips. When she had married Zhou Yun Heng, she should have ended this thought. Not to mention that, with her present ghastly state, she really was a world away from the beautiful Hua Xi Wan.

It was already a great favor that Hua Xi Wan was willing to put away her honor as a wang fei to argue with the people of the Zhou Family. There were not many cousins who would be willing to do such a thing. Even if she, Hua Yi Liu, was jealous of Hua Xi Wan’s present life, she was clear that she owed Hua Xi Wan a great favor.

If Hua Xi Wan, the wang fei, was not here today, the Zhou Family would not be so afraid. Xian Wang would not pay attention to this matter, and only the Heavens knew what her outcome would be.

Yan Jin Qiu had spoken, so no one dared to stop Hua Yi Liu. Consequently, they proceeded smoothly out of the gates of the Zhou Family, with a line of scared Zhou Family members behind them.

When they came out of the gates, Hua Yi Liu found many onlookers outside. The moment she appeared, many people exclaimed in shock. It was just that the present Hua Yi Liu looked frightening. There was only a skeleton and a layer of skin left on her body. With a glance, it could be seen that she had been abused.

People liked to sympathize with the weaker side, so even though the Hua Family did not say anything, people already assumed that the Zhou Family had favored the concubine, neglected the wife, and also abused her.

In the eyes of the liberal Great Zhao People, if the two did not like each other, they could just divorce. There was no need to reduce a person to something like this. They also heard that this wife had been forced into a miscarriage. Was it that the abuse was too much and caused the miscarriage?

Hua Yi Liu watched as the carriage from Xian Wang Fu left. She slowly moved her gaze away and got on the carriage of the Hua Family.

When the Jing Administrator received the case, he immediately called people into his court. Inside, he found this a hard task. Assistant Minister Zhou was a monarchist, but the Hua Family was a prestigious

family of a few hundred years. With a Xian Wang Fu at the back as support, this matter was troublesome.

Most importantly was that the Zhou Family was really in the wrong and brainless. Had they thought that if the Hua Family discovered what they did, they would act as though it did not happen?

Sitting at court, the Jing Administrator recognized a certain person standing at the side was an attendant of Xian Wang Fu. Seeing that Hua shi had really been abused to a state beyond recognition, he already had a decision.

When it was not good to offend either side, he should judge according to the facts. The matter of the Zhou Family favoring the concubine and neglecting the wife was known throughout the entire city. He did not want to become a bad of icial whom all of Jing scorned. The Hua Family already decided to publicize this matter. If he helped the Zhou Family, that was seeking death.

As Hua Yi Liu’s accusations came out, the Jing Administrator’s expression grew uglier. After Hua Yi Liu stopped speaking, he said towards the Zhou Family, “Do you have any defense?”

The Zhou Family was tongue-tied. They wanted to say that Hua Yi Liu’s words were slanderous, but they did not have the con idence. Adding on the fact that the attendant of Xian Wang was present, in the end Assistant Minister Zhou had to come out and apologize to Hua Yi Liu. He had to agree that Hua Yi Liu could divorce his son. The Zhou Family

had to repay three times Hua Yi Liu’s dowry, and would not take the bride price back.

In the end, based on the good attitude of the Zhou family, the Jing Administrator only sentenced Zhou Yun Heng to twenty blows and a divorce for him and Hua Yi Liu. Other than the repayment of the dowry, the little concubine was also exiled to a poor place.

As Hua Yi Liu listened to Zhou Yun Heng’s wails, a trace of a smile came onto her face. With her thin face, it seemed slightly dark and evil.

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Chapter Fifty-Nine: A Suspicious Good News

The case between the Zhou and the Hua Family allowed many people to see a good performance of how to favor the concubine and neglect the wife. The rumors were so powerful that in this recent while, no one dared to enter a marital relationship with the Zhou Family.

There were some people who sourly said behind Hua Xi Wan’s back that she was meddling in the affairs of her paternal family as a woman who had married out, but people quickly objected.

“If she did not act when her own sister endured so, then she would truly be a woman with a poisonous heart. Xian Wang Fei is a magnanimous person.”

Everyone talked about about Hua Xi Wan’s good qualities—half of the people did so because they agreed with her actions, and the other half only did so because of Hua Xi Wan’s status which they wanted to curry favor with. So they wanted to say that she was perfect all around. People were so and avoided dangers to them. Everyone knew that Assistant Minister Zhou had been removed from the position of examiner in the civil service examination because of Zhou Family’s ugly matter of favoring the concubine and neglecting the wife. He was also attacked in court by a share of of icials, causing him to lose his position as assistant minister, and was sent off to a poor place to be a local of icial.

Originally, Assistant Minister Zhou had a chance to become the Minister, but everything was gone now. It could be seen from this just how important it was to teach one’s children well. Many families in Jing sent away their concubines because of this matter, afraid that someone would accuse them of favoring the concubines and neglecting the wife.

Just as this matter settled, waves occurred again at the Judicial Of ice because of the assassination of Lin Ping Junma. After the complete investigation by the Judicial Of ice, this matter seemed to be connected with the Crown Prince and Lin Ping Junzhu.

Lin Ping Junma was someone on the Crown Prince’s side. Why would the Crown Prince want to kill him? Lin Ping Junzhu was his wife. Why would she want to kill him? There had to be something else going on.

As the case progressed, there were even more parts that were suspicious. Many people in Jing were found to have a connection with the case. The case of the two red-light district women was cleared up. It was because Zhou Yun Heng had been lirting with these women, causing a concubine in his home to feel jealousy who sent someone to harm these women. Out of fear, she purposefully had the people leave behind clues relating to Sheng Junwang that would muddy the trail.

As to why she had to use things that were related to Sheng Junwang Fu, it was because Sheng Junwang had a position in the Judicial Of ice. The concubine thought that Sheng Junwang would suppress this case because he would be wary of it. She did not know that the Xian Wang couple discovered the matter that same night, which caused the entire city to learn of the matter. Thereupon, it was impossible to be kept secret.

Since the matter was cleared up, the concubine was arrested. Zhou Yun Heng was also affected by the matter and sentenced to three years in prison.

“This case has ended like this?” Hua Xi Wan lazily leaned back on the chaise. There were two soft cushions at her back. “A little concubine from the Zhou Family dares to kill people in Jing—she is very daring.”

“Who knows what kind of people the Zhou Family has?” Hong Ying was kneeling in front of the chaise as she kneaded Hua Xi Wan’s knees. “It is fortunate that the miss left that pit, otherwise, she would also be affected by the Zhou Family.”

“Calamity and auspiciousness often come together. Who knows if it is good or bad.” Hua Xi Wan had a junior servant girl get an embroidered stool for Hong Ying to sit on. Then she said, “I will nap for a while. If Wang Ye comes, wake me up then.”

Hong Ying responded in a small voice. Shortly after, she saw Hua Xi Wan fall into a shallow sleep. After putting a light blanket on Hua Xi Wan, she lightly retreated into the outer room. Seeing a young servant girl wiping the objects in the room, she said, “Be careful—do not disturb Wang Fei.”

“Yes.” The young servant girl curtsied and then became even more careful in her movements. Hong Ying saw that there was nothing to do, so she started to embroider a handkerchief. The silk threads were

brightly colored, and the cloth felt very good to the touch. This high quality cloth was just for the wang fei to wipe her hands.

After about an hour, Hong Ying heard footsteps come from outside. There seemed to be the voices of servants making greetings. She hurriedly put down the things in her hand. When she walked to the door, she saw Wang Ye walking towards where she was. She hurriedly bowed her head and walked out the door before standing with bent knees beside the door.

“Wang Fei is asleep?” Yan Jin Qiu glanced at Hong Ying. Just as he asked, Hua Xi Wan’s voice came from the room.

“Originally asleep, but I was woken up by you.”

Smiling when he heard this, Yan Jin Qiu strode into the room. Seeing Hua Xi Wan leaning back against the chaise and appearing lazy, he walked to sit on the chaise. “If you are awake, sit with me.”

“It is so tiring to sit.” Hua Xi Wan leaned her upper body on Yan Jin Qiu. “How come you returned so late today—you didn’t even eat the noon meal in the fu.”

“It is because of Lin Ping Junma’s assassination.” Yan Jin Qiu put a hand at her waist and said in a cool tone, “The Judicial Of ice has found that the Crown Prince is connected to the matter, and caused the Emperor to be angry. He lectured the people of the Judicial Of ice.”

Hua Xi Wan used her hand to cover her mouth in a yawn. “Isn’t the Crown Prince still inside the Heavenly Prison?”

“Two days ago, the Emperor said that he wanted to release the Crown Prince, and then put him under house arrest in the Crown Prince’s fu. Who knew that the Judicial Of ice actually said at court today in front of all the of icials that the Crown Prince is connected to the assassination of Lin Ping Junma and should not be released. How could the Emperor not feel embarrassment?”

“The people of the Judicial Of ice… are really daring.” Hua Xi Wan felt that this was too much of a coincidence, but she cautiously did not state this. “The Emperor did not punish the Judicial Of ice.” Since this occurred in the morning, some people already heard this. Hua Xi Wan had heard someone report about this matter before lunch.

“Even if the Emperor has the intentions to punish, he cannot do that unless he wants to leave behind the name of tyrant and despot in the history books.” Yan Jin Qiu’s smile carried some disdain. “If the Emperor had another son, he would probably unhesitatingly give up on the Crown Prince.”

Hua Xi Wan did not respond. With Qilong Emperor’s personality, he probably did not have any more good feelings left for the Crown Prince. But he only had this one son—it really was both pitiful and humorous.

If he really thought for the good of his people, he would depose this useless, brutish and lusty crown prince and adopt an outstanding child from the Imperial House. At least, he could guarantee the peace and prosperity for the people for at least a few more decades.

It was a pity that there were not many emperors in the world who were so generous.

“Wang Ye, this one has something to report.” Mu Tong’s voice was slightly careful as though what he was going to report would not make Yan Jin Qiu happy.

“Come in.” Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes were icy, but his hand at Hua Xi Wan’s waist was still as gentle as before.

“This small one greets Wang Ye, Wang Fei. People from the Crown Prince’s Fu have come to report that the Crown Princess has had good news for two months.”

“The Crown Princess is pregnant?” Yan Jin Qiu’s tone was strange as he looked at Mu Tong. After staring at Mu Tong for a long while, a sliver of a smile appeared on his face. “This is a joyous matter; our Great Zhao Dynasty will quickly have a crown grandson.”

Hua Xi Wan looked in puzzlement at Yan Jin Qiu and Mu Tong. These two seemed to have a strange attitude about the Crown Princess’ pregnancy.

“Since the Crown Princess is Pregnant, then I will visit the Crown Princess with gifts tomorrow,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “The Crown Princess has inally ful illed her hopes for a child.”

Mu Tong laughed dryly and did not dare to speak more.

“Since that is so, then I will trouble Xi Wan.” Yan Jin Qiu lowered his eyes and said, “The Crown Princess is pregnant with the crown grandson, and she is originally noble. We need to be careful regarding what gifts we give.”

“I understand.” Hua Xi Wan nodded. It was not important if they gave gifts. If something happened to the valuable crown grandson in the stomach, then even if their Xian Wang Fu had numerous excuses, all of them would be useless.

The next morning, Hua Xi Wan sat on the carriage and went to visit the Crown Princess. When she reached the gates of the Crown Prince’s Fu, she found that there were heavy guards stationed at the gates. The armor of the guards lashed with cold light and looked exceptionally intimidating.

When Hua Xi Wan got off the carriage, a female of icial had come to welcome her. She looked at the carriage next to her and asked, “Which noble personage has already arrived?”

“Xian Wang Fei, this is the carriage of Xu Wang Shizi Fei. Shizi Fei arrived ifteen minutes ago.” The female of icial originally had been stationed at Zhao Yang Hall, and was one of the palace maids who served the Emperor. However, in front of the nobility of Jing, she did not dare to be careless.

“So that is what it is. She is usually very considerate,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “If I have to wake up this early every day, it is not possible. The colder the weather gets, the lazier people get.”

The female of icial smiled but did not dare to reply. Inside, she sighed. Xu Wang Shizi Fei had a mother-in-law ranking above her—how could she be as carefree as Xian Wang Fei? Also, everyone in Jing knew how much Xian Wang favored his wang fei. Not just lazing on bed, even if this one wanted the stars, Xian Wang would think of ways to obtain them.

They said that Xian Wang was a stylish gentleman and would naturally be romantic. Now that he had fallen under the spell of this Xian Wang Fei, he was just a normal husband. Some of the palace maids still thought about this Xian Wang who had both appearance and talent. They should look at how beautiful and exquisite Xian Wang Fei was. With their beauty and moves, could they even enter the eyes of Xian Wang?

After guiding Hua Xi Wan into the room where the Crown Princess was waiting, the female of icial left. As she left, without any reason, she looked back at Xian Wang Fei’s shadow. The hair was inky, the igure was exquisite, and as she stood, grandly dressed, in the room, she caused everyone else to dim.

She hurriedly moved her gaze away. After passing through the door, she sighed. If this one entered the palace, she would de initely be a consort who would rule the inner palace yet be a calamity. Fortunately… The female of icial slapped her face. What was she thinking—did she not want to live?

“Greetings to Crown Princess.” Before Hua Xi Wan could complete her curtsy, she was held up by the Crown Princess’ personal servant girl.

“Tang Dimei, there is no need for such courtesy.” There was a smile on the Crown Princess’ face as she invited Hua Xi Wan to sit down.

Hua Xi Wan sat down after exchanging greetings with Xu Wang Shizi Fei. She said, “I heard yesterday of the Crown Princess’ joyous news. This subject-wife is overjoyed and has come early to disturb you, Crown Princess. Who knew that Shizi Fei came earlier than subject-wife?”

“If I had known beforehand that Wang Fei was coming, I would have come later, so that you would be irst.” The Shizi Fei covered her mouth and smiled. “It really is a crime.”

“No matter. I did not get irst, but second is also very good,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “I’m a lazy person to start with, so it is very rare for me to even obtain second.”

“It can be seen the pregnancy of the Crown Princess has caused Wang Fei to change your lazy personality.” Shizi Fei was willing to lend a helping hand to Hua Xi Wan. She turned and said to the Crown Princess, “Looking at how hard Wang Fei has worked, Crown Princess, you need to give her the most delicious pastries. She always likes little things to eat and play with.”

The Crown Princess smiled and said, “Tang Dimei is honoring me so, and I do not dare to neglect you. Shu Yun, quick, put out the best pastries and tea, and welcome our wang fei.”

The trio chatted and laughed. No one mentioned the Crown Prince, and they only talked about good matters. The atmosphere could be said to be harmonious.

However, Hua Xi Wan kept on feeling that the Crown Princess’ smile held another kind of emotion. Was she worried about the father of her child?

After a span of two cups of tea, someone came in with Sheng Junwang Fei. Hua Xi Wan immediately saw more servants present in the room, and the mood became slightly awkward.

Were they wary of Sheng Junwang Fei?

Sheng Junwang Fei gave a proper bow, and there was an appropriate smile on her face. There was no law that people could pick. When she

acted like this, it caused the people from the Crown Prince Fu to seem overly cautious.

When Xu Wang Shizi Fei and Hua Xi Wan saw this situation, they did not feel it was interesting. They were also afraid that Sheng Junwang Fei would really commit an act which would drag them in, so the two found excuses to bid farewell.

Coming out of the main yard, the two exchanged a look and smiled. They did not speak much as they walked, but they both felt that they were exceptionally well-matched and in-sync.

When they separated, Xu Wang Shizi Fei suddenly bent to Hua Xi Wan’s ear and said a sentence in a light voice. Hua Xi Wan’s expression stilled slightly, and then she recovered her smile.

When she sat on the carriage, the smile on her face inally disappeared completely.

“The rumor is that it is hard for the Crown Prince to have children.”

These were Xu Wang Shizi Fei’s original words. There was too much information contained in these words.

Since it was dif icult for the Crown Prince to have children, then who was the father of the child in the Crown Princess’ belly?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Sixty: Benevolence

It might have been that Hua Xi Wan was too suspicious, or that she had acted in all kinds of dramas in the past life, but she remembered, that time when she had gone into the palace, the gaze with which Qilong Emperor had looked at her, Xu Wang Shizi Fei and the Crown Princess. At the time, she had felt the stare was too strange. Now that she thought back to it, she felt that the gaze had a different meaning.

Once she started thinking this, Hua Xi Wan was shocked by her thoughts. She took a deep breath and forced this unreliable thought out of her head because this was taboo in society. Hua Xi Wan felt that she was thinking too much.

In the palace, after the Empress inished listening to Zhao Dong’s report, she had a strange expression. After she waved away the servants present, she lowered her voice and said, “Did the grand doctor con irm the diagnosis?”

“Niangniang, the babe inside the Crown Princess de initely has more than two months.” Zhao Dong darted a look at the Empress and then quickly lowered his head. “The Emperor places great important on the child of the Crown Prince, so he has sent an experienced mama from the palace, as well as female of icials. He even sent two grand doctors to stay in the Crown Prince’s Fu.”

The Empress’ expression was uncertain. She had been thinking of the Crown Prince all this time because he was in prison. She was extremely

thin, a layer of skin supported by bones, and looked much older. She even gave people a harsh and cold feeling. “It is rare for the Emperor to spend effort on these things.”

Zhao Dong’s heart jumped. He felt that the Empress’ words were not quite right, but he did not dare to think more. Instead, he said with a smile, “It can be seen that the Emperor thinks highly of you and the Crown Princess. Otherwise, he would not spend so much effort for the young highness.” When he said this, a trace of anger came onto his face. “This one had not expected Zhang Hou of the Judicial Of ice to be so unperceptive. He actually caused His Highness to have to stay longer in prison.”

The Empress had a dazed expression as though she had not heard Zhao Dong’s words. After a moment, she said tiredly, “Has the matter of the two prostitutes been taken care of?”

“Niangniang, do not worry. The matter has been pushed onto the Zhou Fu. No one will suspect His Highness.” Zhao Dong had a smile on his face that seemed slightly strange. “It is a pity that we were unable to relate it to Sheng Junwang Fu.”

“Yan Bo Yi is not someone you can scheme against.” The Empress snorted. “Pushing this matter onto the Zhou Family is just the result of a compromise between us and him. He knows that if the matter is dragged out, even if it is investigated, it will be harmful for his reputation. Whereas we do not want to make things worse for the Crown Prince. Only that Zhang Hou is really hateful…”

The Empress rubbed her forehead in restlessness. Every time she planned one step, something unexpected would happen. These recent years, it had been extremely choppy. She speculated that Yan Bo Yi was involved in this, so she felt murderous towards Yan Bo Yi.

Zhao Dong did not dare to speak more. He had already caused the Empress to feel discontent because he had not taken care of the matter properly. If he was careless in his speech, the Empress might take the chance to lecture him. The Empress had not been in a good mood recently. Many people in the palace had been punished, and he did not want to be punished.

“All right, you can go.” After the Empress said this, she stilled for a few moment and then said with a sigh, “Have the servants be careful of the Crown Princess’ child. Nothing is allowed to happen to the child.”

While she knew that the truth behind some matters was disgusting and hard to hear, for her son and her glory in the future, she could ignore it.

The world of the Great Zhao was fated to be in her son’s hands. No one could steal it from him.

After Zhao Dong walked out of the main hall, a young taijian hurried in. Then the tajian went next to his ear and said, “Just now the Emperor sent another troop to guard the Crown Prince Fu.”

The Crown Prince’s fu will really become impenetrable with the Emperor sending so many people over. Even lies would not be able to get in.

He sighed. There was no solution about this. The Emperor and the Crown Prince both had great dif iculty in producing children. If the Crown Prince had a child, then his position would be more secure. Even if the of icials were discontent with the Crown Prince, with the crown grandson present, these experienced and old of icials would not go to support someone else of the Imperial Family.

The most important matter at this time was for the Crown Princess to give birth to the crown grandson.

“All right, this one knows.” Zhao Dong turned to look at the gates to the main hall. The large black doorway was like the large maw of a beast and caused him to feel slightly afraid. “The Empress is not in a good mood. Be quieter when you go in to report, and do not disturb niangniang.”

The young taijian had not thought that he could show his face in front of the Empress, and went in with a joyous expression. He completely forgot the fact that the Empress was not in a good mood.

Other than being loyal and having a closed mouth, Zhao Dong was able to serve the Empress for so many years because he had a sensitive intuition. Even though he did not know the reason, he felt that the

Empress would not be happy after hearing the news, so he did not want to be present.

Time lowed by like water. A month passed, but the case of Lin Ping Junma’s assassination had still not been solved. Even the people in Jing started to forget this unfortunate junma and joyfully welcomed the irst snow of Jing. After their meals, what they discussed was the crown grandson who was still in his mother’s belly, as well as the unworthy Crown Prince, or where Xian Wang Ye and Wang Fei had appeared and how pleasing they were to look at.

People were always forgetful. They were always willing to pay attention to what was immediate and forget the past as well as the people. In their eyes, this matter was just something to discuss. When it became boring, no one was willing to mention it again.

“Ah, it is snowing.” A young servant girl woke up in the morning. Pushing open the window, she saw the snow lakes loating in the air. She said happily to the other people in the room, “It seems that there will be a great harvest next year as well.”

“You should not pay so much attention to this kind of worldly affair. Quick, go to the kitchen and help. I heard that Wang Fei is going back to the marquis fu today, so breakfast needs to be prepared early.” Her fellow servant was hurriedly arranging her clothing. “If you are late, Aunty Wang will punish you.”

Hearing this, the young servant girl did not dare to slack off and hurriedly sprinted towards the kitchen. Before she entered the door, she heard a loud voice. She felt slight disdain inside. Liu Xiao San was just a distant relative of a servant woman who guarded the gates to the inner compound. It wasn’t as though he was serving in the inner compound, yet he dared to be so arrogant.

She thought like this, but she did not dare to show too much emotion on her face. Young servant girls like her did not dare to offend anyone from the inner compound. After greeting the other people in the kitchen, she started to work.

More than one hour later, a servant girl in blue robes came in with a smile on her face. She looked extremely friendly, but no one in the kitchen dared to slight her. Even Liu Xiao San was bowing and fawning, as he kept on calling her “Cheng Qiu Jiejie.”

Cheng Qiu had been one of the servants originally serving in the main yard of the wang fu, someone who everyone needed to respect. A few days ago, she had been promoted by Wang Fei to a irst-rank servant girl. This was a great honor. Everyone in the fu was more polite when they met her. She had heard that even Chief Steward Mu was polite to the four personal servant girls of Wang Fei.

The young servant girl had seen Cheng Qiu for the irst time not long after she came to the kitchen to work. She saw everyone in the kitchens acting with Cheng Qiu as the center. She looked with admiration at the blue dress that Cheng Qiu was wearing. She had heard that the servants of the wang fei were all dressed like goddesses, and it really did seem so when she saw the other today.

Originally, one of her neighbors had heard that she was working in the wang fu, which caused the other to be more respectful to her parents. Yet now when she saw Cheng Qiu, she felt that her status was just to fool the people outside.

“Am I disrupting your work?” Because Cheng Qiu smiled as she talked, there was a dimple on her cheeks. “I do not have any work and came to take a look. I might take the food for Wang Fei as well.”

The people naturally agreed and quickly packed the things for Wang Fei. They really did not dare to have Cheng Qiu carry the dishes and chose a few pretty servant girls to hold the food boxes and follow behind Cheng Qiu.

“This young girl seems to look very auspicious.” Cheng Qiu suddenly pointed at the young servant girl in the corner and said, “She looks unfamiliar to me—is she new?”

Liu Xiao San looked at the young servant girl. “Cheng Qiu Jiejie, you have good eyes. Her roommate Shuang Lu has been sent to serve in the gardens, so she took over the role.” Not willing to let the young servant girl be known, he didn’t even mention her name to Cheng Qiu.

“En, I feel that she has a happy disposition.” Cheng Qiu nodded. “Let’s have her come along to deliver the food.”

The young servant girl was overjoyed. After taking the food box that the kitchen steward handed over, she followed the servant girls behind this Cheng Qiu Jiejie.

After passing through a beautiful Door of Drooping Flowers, she knew that she was now in the inner compound.

After the door, a servant woman fawningly opened an umbrella to shelter Cheng Qiu from the snow. The young servant girl looked around and felt that this place wasn’t cold at all.

The inner yard was extremely beautiful. It was a season for withered branches and dried yellow leaves, but it was still bright green inside the yard. There were also several beautiful blossoms in the green, which looked exceptionally beautiful against the snow.

The scenery was beautiful, but the little servant girl did not dare to look more. When they walked to the moon door, they heard a heavenly laugher come from inside. Walking in, she saw several servant girls who were inely dressed harvesting lowers from the bushes. She couldn’t help but look at their pale and beautiful hands.

Seeing them come in, these inely dressed servant girls exchanged a few words. They stopped what they were doing, and washed their hands in the copper basin that a young servant girl behind them carried before leading them into the main room.

Entering the door, the young servant girl felt the room was very warm, so warm that her head was dizzy. When she walked into the room, she was not able to see anything. However, even if she had a clear mind, she would not dare to look.

“It is so cold—why did you make the trip? Quick, take this to warm your hands.”

Such a pleasing voice, the young servant girl thought dazedly. She had never heard a more beautiful voice in her life.

“Wang Fei, thank you.” When she heard Cheng Qiu Jiejie’s mirthful voice, she inally realized. No wonder the voice was so beautiful—it was Wang Fei. She sneaked a look and only saw the hem of a silverembroidered dress. But just the hem caused her to feel it was extremely luxurious.

Listening to the orders of those around, the young servant girl carefully placed the contents of the food boxes. Just as she was preparing to leave, she was gripped by a hand. This hand was beautiful and pale. The moment that her hand was held, she felt that her hand was surrounded by the best silk in the world.

“Such an adorable little girl—she looks just twelve or so?” Hua Xi Wan saw this little servant girl’s cheeks were round, her eyes were large, and she seemed very cute. She said, “Zi Shan, take a look—does she look like your distant relative?”

Zi Shan smiled as she helped Hua Xi Wan wash her hands. “Wang Fei has good eyes. This servants also feels that she looks familiar.”

Everyone was amused by her words. Hua Xi Wan wiped her hands and said, “If that’s the case, then let’s have this distant relative of yours serve in the inner compound. This is taking care of your family’s relatives.”

Zi Shan curtsied with a smile. “Many thanks, Wang Fei. Meimei, quick, thank Wang Fei for her grace.”

Everyone laughed again, which amused Hua Xi Wan into drinking an extra half-bowl of soup. As for the young servant girl, she was kept in the inner compound. Because of her likable face, Wang Fei gave her the name “Qiao Xi,” which caused servants in the inner compound to feel admiration.

After the other people in the room had left, and Zi Shan was making up Hua Xi Wan’s hair, she asked in puzzlement, “Wang Fei, why have you kept this little girl?”

Picking a ruby and gold buyao to give to Zi Shan, Hua Xi Wan said, “Her roommate has some problems. Not far in the future, Mu Tong will probably tie her up and interrogate her. She is just twelve or so, and has nothing to do with the matter. Why should she be affected because of her roommate and lose her life?”

Hearing this, Zi Shan understood. “Mistress is benevolent. This little girl really has good fortune.”

Hua Xi Wan did not speak. At the side, Bai Xia who was arranging the hair ornaments said, “Mistress, no wonder you had Cheng Qiu make a trip today. So it was for this little girl.”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Sixty-One: Paternal Family

Just as Hua Xi Wan inished attiring herself for the day, Yan Jin Qiu walked in from outside. Because of the snow, a small part of his shoes was wet. When Hua Xi Wan saw this, she immediately had the servant girls take out shoes for Yan Jin Qiu to change into. She handed a cup of warm tea to Yan Jin Qiu. “It is a major court session today—how is it that you came back so early?”

Yan Jin Qiu allowed Mu Tong to change his shoes and then waved the other people out. He then took a sip of hot tea before saying, “The Emperor fainted in anger because of the case that the Judicial Of ice is investigating right now.”

With a son like this, it would not be right if he did not faint a few times every year.

While she thought this, Hua Xi Wan said with slight concern on her face, “What do the imperial doctors say?”

“What can they say? It is just too much anger.” Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Xi Wan’s splendid attire and remembered that Hua Xi Wan was going to visit his in-laws at the marquis fu today. He said, “The snow has decreased slightly. I will accompany you to visit the parents. Even though today is not the old taitai’s signi icant birthday year, as one of the grandson generation, it is proper to go wish her well. Also, it has been a few days since I have played a match with Mt. Tai.”

“All right,” Hua Xi Wan said with a smile. “A few days ago, Mother was saying to me that ever since Father played with you, he disdains my two brothers’ skills. Once you go today, you can satisfy some of his weiqi yearning.”

Even if they were simple and frugal, the procession of the wang ye and wang fei still looked ceremonial and noble in the eyes of other people. Fortunately, the people in Jing were already used to this. In Jing where the Imperial Family members could be found on the streets, and the nobility was as numerous as dogs, they would just exchange gossip between them when they saw a grand procession appear on a snowy day.

“I heard Xian Wang once gave Xian Wang Fei a night pearl the size of a ist to curry favor with her. That is a very rare object.”

“What are you saying? I have a distant relative who works in the fu of a certain Imperial Family member, and they heard that Xian Wang Fei doesn’t like night pearls at all. So in the things that they send as gifts to Xian Wang Fei, they have to avoid things like night pearls.”

“I’ve also heard this. What night pearl, that is so cheap. Would someone as beautiful as Xian Wang Fei like something like that?”

The people on the street fantasized about the days that the Imperial Family members lived. In their imagination, people like Wang Ye and Wang Fei would de initely live differently from them. Also, Xian Wang

had a good and elegant reputation before. If Xian Wang Fei was the object of such affection from him, she de initely would not be a woman who only had beauty.

Even though there were warming stoves placed in the large carriage, Hua Xi Wan still felt slightly cold. When she lifted the curtain slightly, she felt the cold wind scurrying into the carriage. She moved towards Yan Jin Qiu and inhaled the cold air. She neatened the sleeve of her palace robe that was trimmed with fox fur and said, “The days are getting colder.”

“I wonder what the harvest will be like next year.” Yan Jin Qiu’s brow furrowed. “The day is cold and the ground is frozen; I wonder how the poor will manage to pass the winter.”

“Jing is like this every year when it is winter. Fortunately, some prestigious families will give out rice and porridge in the winter, or give out warm clothing to some of the poor families. Otherwise, it really is dif icult to live as one of the common people.” What Hua Xi Wan did not say was that, right at the feet of the Emperor, the people did not need to worry about dying from being frozen or starvation. Those who really endured hardship were the people in remote areas. With the Emperor so far away, no one knew how much of the Imperial Winter Funds that the Ministry of Revenue sent each year would truly land in the hands of those who needed them.

Hua Xi Wan did not say it, but that did not mean that Yan Jin Qiu did not think of it. However, it was not appropriate for people of their station to think of this matter. Right now, the Imperial Clan of the Great Zhao was showing signs of becoming disorderly.

The Emperor had become old and turned from a wise emperor into a paranoid, stubborn and muddle-headed emperor. The inner palace had a hard time producing children, the Crown Prince was unskilled and of poor conduct. If things continued to develop like this, it was undoubted that the Great Zhao Dynasty would turn into chaos. At that time, it would still be the innocent people who would suffer the most.

While the old taitai of the Hua Family lived with the third master of the Hua Family, this birthday was still celebrated and hosted by Hua He Sheng, the di son, at the marquis fu. No matter how the relationship between the three Hua Brothers was, in the eyes of other people, they were brothers of the same blood. If they made a spectacle, that was just providing something for other people to laugh at.

Fortunately, the three could be considered to have a harmonious relationship. While Hua Zhi Xun was born of the second wife, he had some talent in scholarly ields and he was a very rational person. So there was no con lict between him and his two brothers who were born of the irst wife. In their eyes, the little matters between the women of the inner compound were so insigni icant that they were not worth a mention.

Even though the marquis fu had already stated that, because it was not a major birthday for the old taitai, they would not hold a large celebration, still many people in Jing sent gifts. This gave the Hua Clan enough face.

The families by marriage such as the Zhang, Lu, and Yao Family also came in person to celebrate the birthday of the old taitai. The old taitai’s own family, the Luo Family, was a small prestigious family, and naturally would not miss such a chance to curry favor with the Hua Family. So early in the morning, the mistress of the Luo Family, the old taitai’s nephew’s wife, came to the marquis fu. She accompanied the old taitai, amusing her and causing the old taitai to be very happy.

However, Luo Taitai also knew her own status in addition to the fact the old taitai was just the second wife of the old marquis. The present head of the family was the oldest son of the original wife, so she did not do anything inappropriate using her identity as one of the old taitai’s paternal family members. Her words were respectful of all three Hua Brothers, and she did not favor one over the others.

The Old Hua Taitai was satis ied with this. She was perceptive, smart, and had a tight mouth. Therefore, of the womenfolk in her paternal family, who she saw the most was this nephew’s wife.

“Old Taitai, Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei have arrived,” a young servant girl reported with a happy expression. “I heard that they have reached the main gates already.”

“Such heavy snow—why did these two children come? Didn’t I say that I was not going to hold a banquet? What happens if they get cold?” While the old taitai was stern in words, the smile on her face was visible. Hua Xi Wan really wasn’t her true granddaughter, but she gave enough face by coming on a snowy day with Xian Wang to celebrate her birthday.

“Aunt, you cannot say something like that. Who in Jing doesn’t know that Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei are extremely ilial people? They have come in such heavy snow to celebrate for you, that is their ilial virtue. How can you blame them for their concern—wouldn’t this hurt their hearts?” Luo Taitai’s words were very skilled. She did not just make Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei into ilial people, she also complimented the old taitai for being an elder who was benevolent.

The young master who had been adopted from a branch of the Zhang Family also added a few words. However, his status was awkward, so he was not willing to speak more after saying a few words. His furen was also someone who was not skilled in speech, so the two sat there and seemed slightly transparent.

The second taitai of the Hua Family, Zhang shi, was not very warm towards this younger brother who had been adopted and his wife. In fact, she looked down on this adopted brother. If it was not for the face of her paternal family, she probably wouldn’t even look at them.

When she heard that Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei had arrived, Zhang shi had a slightly complex expression. Hua Xi Wan had rescued her daughter but broke the path she had arranged for her son. Therefore, she did not feel any gratefulness towards Hua Xi Wan.

Lu shi did not care about these matters. Turning, she took her daughter-in-law to the second door to greet her daughter. The people seated also followed. Who here had a higher status than Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei?

When they walked to the second door, they saw a group of female servants ushering people in. The ones leading the way were Hua Chang Bao and Hua Ding Chen.

“Mother.” When Hua Xi Wan saw Lu shi, her steps quickened. However, as the ground was slippery after it snowed, she stumbled. If it was not for Yan Jin Qiu who was quick of eye and hand, she would have fallen to the loor.

“Careful.” Yan Jin Qiu reached out to neaten her skirt. “It is snowing, and it will hurt for a few days if you trip.”

Hua Xi Wan coughed dryly and touched the hairpin in her hair. “I know.”

Lu shi smiled as she looked at the interaction between her daughter and son-in-law. After the two stopped moving, she went forward and said, “Already grown up, and you are still so rushed when walking.”

“Greetings to Mother-in-law.” Yan Jin Qiu respectfully gave the bow of a junior. Lu shi reached out in a perfunctory action to lift him up. “Virtuous Son-in-Law, there is no need for such courtesy. It is snowing, so let us speak inside.”

The group exchanged greetings before inally returning to the main hall. Yan Jin Qiu refused Lu shi’s request to sit at the very front, and sat with

Hua Xi Wan on the irst two seats on the left.

The other people saw Yan Jin Qiu was very respectful towards Lu shi, as though they really were a normal son-in-law and mother-in-law. They were very moved. Raising a capable daughter was much better than a son who had problems. Look at Xian Wang. He had such a noble status, and yet was still so respectful of the in-laws. It could be seen how much importance he placed on Hua Xi Wan.

Seeing this, Zhang shi couldn’t help but glance at her daughter who was still thin and dispirited. She felt slightly furious and unspeakably admiring. This couldn’t help but show on her face. Only when she was glared at coldly by her husband, Hua Zhi Ming, who was beside her did she put away her emotions.

Because of her daughter’s failed marriage, she and her husband had been living separately. Her son and daughter were much colder to her. She could understand if her daughter ignored her, but she had done everything for her son. Why was it that, in the end, even her son did not pay attention to her?

Zhang shi did not understand and was unrepentant. When she saw Lu shi’s good relationship with her husband, her harmonious family, and her ilial children, the discontent in her heart was like a great ire that could not be extinguished.

The son of the Zhang Family who had been adopted and his wife became even more timid after Hua Xi Wan appeared. Zhang Furen was

so nervous she didn’t know what to do with her hands. When Hua Xi Wan inquired about her, she stammered, “No, no, don’t dare to accept Wang Fei’s inquiry. Everyone is good at home.”

“That’s good. Marquis Zhang is a rare noble person, and the old furen is a virtuous person. If the two elders are in good health, that is best.” Hua Xi Wan could see the nervousness of this Zhang Furen. After saying some words to her in a gentle tone, she moved the topic onto other people.

She had heard that this child who had been adopted was the second son of the Zhang Family cadet branch. It could be seen now that compared to the true-born young masters and furen of the prestigious families, this pair was slightly more timid. However, the two seemed to be honest people. This was good for the older Zhang Couple. At least, in their elderly age, there would be people to take care of them.

“Right, I heard that Second Sister’s marriage has been inalized. I wonder which family has the good fortune to be able to marry such an auspicious person as Second Sister?” Hua Xi Wan and Hua Chu Yu had a closer relationship, so after the perfunctory greetings, she asked about the matters of her paternal family.

Hearing this, Yao shi said with some pride, “The elder son of the He Wen Marquis, of the Lin Family. I heard that he is a person who works hard.”

The He Wen Marquis Lin family?

Wasn’t that the paternal family of the Empress’ brother’s wife?

She did not have a good impression of the Fang Family. The Empress’ younger brother, Fang Cheng De, was not a good person in her eyes. She had seen Lin shi a few times before, and the other seemed to have a good personality. However, they did not have any private interactions, and she did not know what the other was like in person.

The eldest son of He Wen Marquis asked to marry Hua Chu Yu?

The smile on Hua Xi Wan’s face did not change, but she felt puzzled inside. She hoped that she was not thinking too much.

“Lin Zheng De is of good conduct.” At the side, Hua Chang Bao suddenly spoke. “I heard that he will attend the spring examinations. He is a person who knows to work hard and advance.”

The Lin Family had a third rank marquis title. While this was not a very noble status in Jing, they did not need to consider the court and its problems. It was pretty good for Second Tang Mei to marry into that family.

Hua Chu Yu smiled upon hearing this. It could not be seen that she had much interest in Lin Cheng De, her iancé.

She changed the question and said, “Meimei, why have you started to tease me? It has been a few days since we met, and you are even more mischievous.”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Sixty-Two: Chu Yu

While theirs mothers did not have a very good relationship, nevertheless Hua Xi Wan and Hua Chu Yu, as di daughters of the Hua Family, had been together many times during their childhood. They had a deep sisterly relationship. So Hua Xi Wan quickly realized that Hua Chu Yu did not seem to feel much anticipation about the marriage to the shizi of He Wen Marquis. Rather than say she was being smart, it would be more accurate to say that she seemed resigned.

The people present were those who were close to the Hua Family, but some things were not appropriate to say in public. After Yan Jin Qiu and the other men went with her father to the study, Hua Xi Wan said with a smile, “It has been long since I returned to the fu. Is Second Tan Jie willing to accompany me on a walk in the fu?”

Such a cold day with the snow blowing—what reason was there to walk?

Everyone present knew this meant that the two girls had private things to say. Perceptively, they did not break the illusion. Lu shi said with a smile, “The yard has been changed recently. You sisters can go see. But it is snowing outside, so take care not to get cold.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and allowed Bai Xia to help her into her fox fur cape. She held a handstove and walked out of the inner hall with Hua Chu Yu.

Almost all of the younger generation had left, and those present had children, so they changed the topic to daily matters. But because Hua Yi Liu was present, no one mentioned how to raise their children to avoid reminding the other of hurtful matters.

“Wang Fei has a good relationship with the second miss of our family.” Yao shi was a person who was slightly sel ish. However, when she saw Hua Xi Wan’s closeness in treating her daughter, she said with a smile, “In the past, the two of them always liked to stay together. Now that Third Miss has become Wang Fei, the two still seem like in the past.”

“That is so true. In the past, Third Girl had to be on bedrest for a long period of time after she rescued Second Miss from drowning, and then ended up with this vulnerability to the cold. It has inally faded these past two years. Can average people compare to this relationship?” The reason why Lu shi was at odds with Yao shi was primarily because of this matter. She had felt pained at what occurred when her daughter rescued the child of the third master Hua, but she would not blame the child. But what Yao shi had done in the past was just repaying a boon with hate.

Yao shi was de initely one of the people who had spread rumors in the past about Hua Xi Wan. Even Zhang shi had done a lot in the shadows. She really did not know what her two sisters-in-law intended when they did this. They also had daughters—could they not put themselves in someone else’s shoes?

If it wasn’t for the actions of Eldest Miss and Second Miss’ mothers, Lu shi had a high opinion of Second Miss. Eldest Miss had talent and beauty, but her personality was not steady. She was not as vicious as

required and not as kind as needed. She did not have enough breadth of mind and skill. As a woman, one could not have beauty, or the best igure, but what they required was a presence of mind.

Second Miss had this mother who was slightly muddle-headed, but Yao shi was truly good to her daughter. Second Miss also inherited the personality of Third Master Hua: she had both talent and appearance as well as a clear mind. This was a rare good girl.

If the women in the world could become of icials like men, how many wondrous and mythical women would appear in the world? It was a pity that no matter how talented the women of the world were, they could only submit to residing in the inner compound, their spirits ground down by the daily affairs. If they married a man who was of good virtue and conduct, that was good fortune. But if it was like Eldest Miss… Lu shi sighed. Regardless of what the court situation was like, she only hoped that Second Miss would not end up like Eldest Miss and encounter a beast in clothing.

“Let’s sit up there.” Hua Xi Wan pointed at the Moon Viewing Pavilion in front. She was walking shoulder-to-shoulder with Hua Chu Yu, with a string of servant girls following them. A jade-ribbed ink umbrella was held on top of her head and caused her to feel slightly depressed.

The two sat down in the pavilion. The servants put out pastries, coal stoves, hot tea, and then retreated out of the pavilion.

“It is snowing outside; you should go seek shelter in the room. Just leave two people to serve in the pavilions.” Hua Xi Wan felt there was no need to torment so many people just to maintain her presence, so she had these people wait in the room. Even her personal servant girls were by the ire in the pavilion.

The servant girls heard this and were very happy as they left. Only Bai Xia and Hong Ying remained, as well as a personal servant girl of Hua Chu Yu.

There was tea boiling in the little red-date pot, the steam of which spread through the air as it bubbled.

The tea already was over-boiled but no one cared. Hua Xi Wan said as she held the hand-warmer, “Just now, I saw that Second Jiejie is not very happy. Is something wrong with the shizi of the Lin Family?”

Hua Chu Yu looked at Hua Xi Wan’s pale yet hale face. She shook her head with a faint smile. “There is nothing wrong, it is just how it is. As a woman, what would determine the quality of my life is my husband and my children. With a fate that is dependent on relying on others to gain anything else, there is no need to have so many delusions.”

Hua Xi Wan looked dazedly at Hua Chu Yu and suddenly thought of the words Xu Wang Shizi Fei had said, as well as Sheng Junwang Fei’s crazy actions after she could not have a child. She felt slightly uncomfortable. In this world where men held all the power, if women had any thoughts

that were not to their bene it, the women would end up with the crime of “not abiding by the womanly path.”

Men always praised “women without talent are virtuous.” That was just because they were afraid that if women knew more, and their mind would be broadened, they would not serve men with all they had. So they would be like defenders who would suggest many things to women that were bene icial to the power of the man, while they whiled away their time at pleasure houses and brothels. As long as they had some respect towards their wife, they would receive the title of gentleman and could generously state that concubines were only playthings and the wife was the true path.

Hua Chu Yu saying this to her meant that she felt unwilling but had to compromise because she could not change anything. Hua Xi Wan felt sorrow for these exceptional women and also sighed for herself.

Of the women whom she knew, all had their unique traits. Even the Empress who was at odds with Yan Jin Qiu was a women with great skill. Yet how many of these exceptional women lived freely?

Even her mother who had a iery personality was just slightly so in her speech and conduct. In reality, she still stayed in the small space that was the inner compound and received her reputation as a shrew because her father did not have concubines. What was worse was that most of the people who laughed at her mother behind her back were women.

“Why does Second Jiejie think so?” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “No matter how unfair the world is, as long as you are alive, you can think of ways so that you can make your life better. People have to leave some hope for themselves.”

“The outside says that Xian Wang and his wife have a love as deep as the sea. Meimei is admired by all the women in Jing—do you not have anything to regret?” Hua Chu Yu looked at the snow lakes lying. “From young, you were a special person, or rather, in my eyes, you were different from other females.”

The snow grew heavier. The pavilion was silent and the sound of boiling water in the little red clay pot seemed unusually loud.

“I’m just a common person.” Hua Xi Wan smiled. “I will compromise some things in order to let myself live better, and will do some things that I once did not like.”

Hua Chu Yu smiled as she looked at Hua Xi Wan. Her expression was exceptionally warm. “If a compromise makes your life better, than the compromise is worth it. To be able to bend and rise as needed is something you are good at, but I might not be able to reach your level.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at Hua Chu Yu’s smile. At this moment, she did not know what to say. There were some questions that did not have answers, and she was not a smart person who was seen once in a millennium.

Seeing that Hua Xi Wan did not speak, Hua Chu Yu continued, “He Wen Marquis Fu is the paternal family of the Crown Princess. I heard that the Crown Princess is the daughter of the second wife while the shizi is born of the original wife. The Lin Family is not very close to the Crown Prince, which is why the Empress is so dissatis ied with the Crown Princess.

After hearing this, Hua Xi Wan’s expression did not change. She wanted to know why Hua Chu Yu was saying all this to her.

“After I marry into the Lin Family, I will try to have the Lin Family distance themselves from the Crown Prince further.” Hua Chu Yu put down the teacup and grasped Hua Xi Wan’s hand. “Xi Wan, of us three sisters, at least one of us should have good days.”

Hua Xi Wan’s hand shook. She looked at Hua Chu Yu and thought of that day eight years ago when she jumped into the water to save Hua Chu Yu, what Hua Chu Yu had said.

“Meimei, it is I who burdened you.”

Hua Xi Wan had never expected that the other would say such a thing to her after so many years.

What was required, and what was not required?

“We should all live well.” Hua Xi Wan gripped Hua Chu Yu and looked hard at her eyes. “Second Jiejie, remember—think more for yourself. A lifetime is just a few decades; do not let your life be a misfortunate trip.”

Hua Chu Yu laughed lightly. “Jiejie will remember what Meimei has said.”

Hua Yi Liu held up an umbrella as she looked at the two people conversing harmoniously in the pavilion. She said with an unfathomable expression to the servant girl behind her, “Tell the two misses that the banquet is about to start soon.”

After the servant girl walked to the Moon Viewing Pavilion, Hua Yi Liu expressionlessly turned her gaze away. Of the three sisters, Hua Chu Yu and Hua Xi Wan were forever the two who were the closest, and she was just their hanger-on. Her beauty was not as good as Hua Xi Wan’s, and her talent was inferior to Hua Chu Yu’s. Maybe, in their eyes, she was just a joke.

Just as she turned and prepared to leave, she saw His Highness Xian Wang walk over with a black-ribbed umbrella with a painting of Jiangnan. Her steps stilled and she made a formal bow to Xian Wang.

Xian Wang only made a faint sound of acknowledgement and then walked in the direction of the Moon Viewing Pavilion.

She turned back to look and saw Hua Xi Wan step down from the stairs to the pavilion. Just as she took one step down, Xian Wang took her hand and the umbrella in his hand moved towards her.

The two of them under the umbrella were like a pleasing drawing. Anyone who saw it would feel admiration.

Hua Yi Liu felt that there was something in her heart that almost could not be suppressed.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Sixty-Three: Dif iculty

“How come your hands are so cold?” Yan Jin Qiu touched Hua Xi Wan’s hand and then frowned. His large hand wrapped irmly around Hua Xi Wan’s hand. “It is so cold now. If you have something you want to say, then send someone to invite them to the fu to stay a few days.”

“Didn’t you say that it is wonderful to see the snowy scenery—how come you are so unre ined now?” Hua Xi Wan’s other hand held a stove warmer. She allowed Yan Jin Qiu to hold the umbrella with one hand and to hold her hand with the other.

“As long as it is for the bene it of your body, there is nothing wrong with being a bit unre ined.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled and released Hua Xi Wan’s hand. He reached out to wrap his arm around her shoulders before they continued to walk.

Hua Chu Yu who was silently walking behind them thought, Your Highness Xian Wang, when you are showing off your love, can you consider the people who are behind you?

Before they returned to the main hall, Yan Jin Qiu took away his arm. He adjusted his clothing and handed the umbrella to Mu Tong before walking through the door shoulder-to-shoulder with Hua Xi Wan, with a digni ied and noble aura.

The main hall which had been very busy quieted when husband and wife walked in. After exchanging greetings politely, everyone was ushered by the younger members of the Hua Family to the meal hall to be seated.

The people of the Hua Family repeatedly invited Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan to sit at the front. However, Yan Jin Qiu refused each time. He bowed towards Hua He Zheng, saying, “Zi Ling should not refuse the sincere invitation of Mount Tai. But with elders present, there is no reason for juniors to sit at the front. Mount Tai, please ful ill the wish of Zi Ling.”

Yan Jin Qiu was giving Hua He Zheng a good amount of face, and Hua He Zheng naturally felt happy. However, he could only act as if he was in dif iculty and invited the old taitai to the front. Then he and Lu shi sat down on either side of the old taitai.

While Yan Jin Qiu allowed the three elders to sit at the front, the other members of the Hua Family did not dare to sit in front of them. So Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan sat down below Hua He Zheng. No one said anything, and they would have to praise the two of them for being ilial.

The old taitai was relatively healthy, but she was still an old person. Consequently, the dishes on the table that had meanings of longevity and good wishes were primarily bland, soft, or sweet. After Hua Xi Wan ate a few bites, she felt her mouth was illed with sweetness.

Because it was a family banquet, the atmosphere was lively, and so no one had the servants serving the food. Some of the food that was suited to Hua Xi Wan’s appetite was far from her. Fortunately, there was Yan Jin Qiu who had a long arm, so she was not in danger of starving or being rude.

“Jiejie, why aren’t you moving—is it not suited to your appetite?” Because of the previous matter, Hua Qing Mao felt as though he had failed Hua Yi Liu. So after Hua Yi Liu returned to the fu, he frequently paid attention to her and showed concern. Seeing her suddenly stop moving her chopsticks, he said in a small voice, “Or is it that you do not feel well?”

“It’s nothing.” Hua Yi Liu’s face was still sickly pale as she smiled at Hua Qing Mao. She bent her head and continued to eat the food that was not suited at all to her tastes. After experiencing so many events, she was used to the cold treatment of other people. It was not important that her food was not appetizing.

After the divorce, she now lived along in a yard in the assistant minister fu. Because of her mother’s coldness towards her, the servants who served in the yard were neglectful. If it wasn’t for Hua Qing Mao, her younger brother’s constant concern, she, the di miss of the assistant minister fu would probably be abused by the servants.

Thinking about her mother’s resentful face, and her scolding words about how much she, the mother, had felt embarrassed and slighted because her irst child was a daughter, Hua Yi Liu felt that she and her mother were both tragic and humorous. The hate inside her surged. If the other really disdained her for being a daughter when she was born,

for losing face, for having people laugh at her, why didn’t the other strangle her to death when she still didn’t know a thing?

Then she would not have to suffer like this, and her mother would not be talked about because her irst child was a daughter. Wouldn’t everyone be happy?

“Xian Wang Fei and Xian Wang are really deeply in love.” Luo Taitai who was at the same table was speaking in a low voice, but that voice was enough to guarantee that those at neighboring tables could hear it. “Let me say something that is out of bounds. Just now when I saw Wang Ye and Wang Fei walk over, if it wasn’t that I saw Wang Fei in the past, I would think that the two were an immortal couple.”

Hua Yi Liu smiled coldly. This Luo Furen had once said behind Hua Xi Wan’s back that Hua Xi Wan’s beauty, if it was known, would cause a calamity. She also said that Hua Xi Wan was a lazy person and wasn’t suited to be a good woman for the family. Now she completely switched around. Hua Yi Liu really admired how lexible this person was.

After the banquet inished, the people sat down under the stage that had been built up. They started to watch the performances on the stage. Hua Xi Wan’s irst role in her previous life had been as the young woman in the opera. She had heavy makeup, but not two minutes after she entered the shot, she was killed by the male protagonist’s guard when she tried to assassinate the other.

In order to act out this bystander who had just one minute of screen time, she had found a friend and learned from the other how to sing and move. Thinking about her previous life, it really seemed a whole world away.

“Bam!” The sound of a teacup shattering came from behind her. Hua Xi Wan turned around to look and saw Zhang Furen sitting awkwardly on the chair. There was a shattered teacup in front of her, the tea splattered on the ground still emitting steam.

“Dimei, what are you doing—is the tea too hot?” Zhang shi raised her chin slightly and said with slight arrogance, “Come, change the tea for Zhang Furen.”

Hua Xi Wan saw Zhang shi bullying her adopted brother’s wife and her brow furrowed. However, as an outsider, it was not good for her to interfere.

“Were you burned?” Zhang Shao walked forward and carefully raised his wife’s hand. Seeing the patch of red on the back of her hand, he said tenderly, “How come the burn is so serious?”

“Didi, why act so emotionally? Someone come, invite a grand doctor for Zhang Furen.” Zhang shi smiled insincerely at her adopted brother and sister-in-law acting so intimately. Her expression was not good. “It seems that we have neglected a noble guest.”

Was something wrong with Zhang shi’s mind? Even if she really did not care about Zhang Shao and his wife, for the face of her parents, she should be at least polite to them. The older Zhang couple would need people to help them in their old age. If she offended Zhang Shao greatly, what was the bene it for her?

Or maybe she thought that Zhang Shao had received a lot of property and a title when he had been adopted by her parents? She could not bear it and had objections about the Zhang Shao couple?

What Hua Xi Wan did not know was that Zhang shi’s relationship with her husband and children was extremely tense due to the matter of Hua Yi Liu. Hua Zhi Ming had not slept with her after that. In their family, the three most important people treated her as though she was transparent.

Unhappy, she did not have a place to vent. When the Zhang Shao couple came today, she couldn’t help but be cruel and harsh in her words. It was just that strange feeling of privilege that supported her to act like this.

“Elder Sister is too serious. We two are used to living ordinary days, and it is a boon from the Heavens allowing the two of us to serve our parents. We are full of gratefulness. The Marquis and Furen are generous and honest people; they will not neglect us.” Zhang Shao bowed towards Zhang shi with a cold expression. “My wife is not feeling well. Please, Elder Sister, forgive us for our shortcomings in politeness.”

Finishing, he turned and bid farewell towards the old taitai and Hua He Zheng. He was preparing to leave.

Hua He Zheng had a good impression of Zhang Shao, so he did not make things dif icult. He had someone go invite a grand doctor to wait in the Zhang Fu. Lu shi also had someone come with a burn paste for Zhan Furen to apply and relieve her pain.

In Lu shi’s view, Zhang Furen did not have the aura and presence necessary, but that kind of presence was something that was nurtured through gold and silver. Zhang shi thought highly of herself and looked down on others. It was just because she had lived better and had eaten better than most people in her childhood. If one really had to discuss it, what Zhang shi had done wasn’t something that women of prestigious families would do.

Hua Xi Wan saw the couple come in front of her to bid farewell and hurriedly reached out to help Zhang Furen who was bowing towards her. She said in a gentle voice, “Furen, do not eat heavily lavored foods in the next few days. It will not be good if a scar is left.”

“Many thanks, Wang Fei, for the concern. Subject-wife will remember.”

Zhang shi looked on with cold eyes as the Hua Family politely saw the two off. She felt even more uncomfortable inside. She was like an outsider among this Hua Family, and was isolated by everyone else.

The old taitai wasn’t very happy at Zhang shi ruining her banquet. However, there were other people present, and it was not good if she expressed her anger. So she pretended to not have seen a thing and focused on the stage.

Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu did not stay for long. After a little while, they turned and bid farewell. When Hua Xi Wan left, there was an additional bundle in her hand that held a beautiful fox cape.

Caressing the soft and smooth fox fur on the cape, Hua Xi Wan said to Yan Jin Qiu who was sitting beside her, “Two years ago, I once thought to have Mother make a fox fur cape for me. Mother agreed. However, because of the marriage decree of the Emperor, Mother was busy with preparing my dowry and the cape was delayed.”

“It has been two years, and Mother still remembers what she promised…” Hua Xi Wan smiled. She hugged the fox fur cape and said, “My parents have raised me for more than a decade. It is unlikely that I will be able to repay in this lifetime all they have done for me.”

“They treat you well because they love you, not for repayment. True emotion is not something that can be measured.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at the cape in Hua Xi Wan’s hand. The color was very pure, and he could not ind one strand that was a different color. The sewing was also good, and there were no marks where the fur was sewn together. It could be seen that the person who made the cape had taken great care.

“You are right.” Hua Xi Wan smiled and her lips curled. “I was incorrect in my thinking.”

Reaching out to touch her hair, Yan Jin Qiu laughed soundlessly.

When Zhang shi returned to the fu, she smashed a tea set. Looking at the empty room and the trembling servants outside the door, she dazedly sat down.

After an unknown length of time, she heard the sound marking the passage of time. It was already dark in the room, and the lanterns hanging on the corridors were lit.

“Come in, light a lamp.”

She stood and touched her slightly hoarse throat. She suddenly realized that because she had sat for so long and not called a servant in, there were no coals in the room and her limbs were so numb that they had almost lost feeling.

When a servant girl came in with a lamp, she couldn’t help asking, “Where is Laoye?”

“Laoye is resting in the study.”

“Young Master?”

“Young Master is studying. He said it is for the spring examinations, so he needs to focus.”

Zhang shi felt slightly comforted and then asked, “Does he ind the soup that I have the kitchens make every day suitable to his taste?”

The servant girl froze slightly as she moved to cut the lamp wick. “This servant does not now.” In reality, the young master had the servants take away the soup that Furen had the servants deliver.

But she could not say this, and Furen would not want to hear.

Zhang shi’s expression changed slightly and then she sighed. “I know, you can go.”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Sixty-Four: Fighting

Because of the several major cases that occurred in Jing lately, many of icials felt they were in great danger. The rumors about the Crown Prince being deposed grew even stronger, and even the people on Sheng Junwang’s side continued to make little movements.

However, Xian Wang Fu still acted high up, as though nothing had anything to do with it. So no matter how strong the con lict between the Crown Prince’s faction and Sheng Junwang’s faction was, Hua Xi Wan was very idle. She did not care about the invitations she received and refused them with the excuse of ill health.

Ever since the two of them had gone to the old taitai’s birthday two days ago, Yan Jin Qiu had a new hobby. When he did not have anything to do, he liked to boil a pot of tea for Hua Xi Wan, and then the two of them would sit by the window, sipping tea as they admired the snow. There would also be some exquisite and delicious pastries on the table, some interesting folktale books, and they would occasionally summon the musicians who were in the fu to make music and sing to add to the atmosphere. Their days were heavenly.

So when husband and wife were listening to a song and admiring the snow, they exchanged a look when they heard that Lin Ping Junzhu was requesting an audience, and found the hint of regret in each other’s eyes.

Even though Hua Xi Wan did not want to move, the other was Yan Jin Qiu’s jiejie. No matter what their relationship was like, she could not avoid meeting the other. She could only dress up slightly and then walk with Yan Jin Qiu to the main hall to see the guest.

Ever since Lin Ping Junma had been assassinated, it had been rare for Hua Xi Wan to meet Lin Ping Junzhu. So when she saw the fragilelooking woman in the main hall, she almost didn’t dare to believe her eyes.

Lin Ping Junzhu was two years older than Yan Jin Qiu, but because she had taken care of herself, she used to look like a woman who wasn’t even in her twenties. But she seemed to have suddenly aged by a decade. She was just in her twenties but looked as though she was in her thirties.

Seeing the couple come in, Lin Ping Junzhu couldn’t help but tense as she sat on the chair. Then she raised her chin slightly and said, “Now, it is even harder to even meet Didi.”

Yan Jin Qiu saw this and did not argue with her. After holding Hua Xi Wan’s hand and sitting down, he said coolly, “You would not come if there was not any matter—what happened?”

“What, it is not possible for I, the jiejie, to come see the didi and dimei?” Yan Jin Ling smiled coldly. She played with her painted ingernails and said, “Has Didi not heard the rumors in Jing?”

Yan Jin Qiu held a teacup and did not speak. He clearly did not want to take care of Lin Ping Junzhu’s matters. Hua Xi Wan touched the hairpin in her hair. It seemed that it was time for her to come onto the stage.

“What matter is Jiejie referring to?” Hua Xi Wan smiled gently and then took a sip of tea. She had eaten a few additional pastries just now and was slightly thirsty.

“The people say that Xian Wang Fei is outstanding in beauty, of a ine mind. I think that the rumors are false. Because other than these two traits, you also have the ability to speak lies.” Yan Jin Ling put down the teacup. “Which of the rumors in Jing is worth my coming to make a visit?”

You make it seem as though I begged you to make this trip. Hua Xi Wan’s brow moved slightly. “Haha.”

Yan Jin Qiu’s hand froze where he held the teacup. He recalled something that Hua Xi Wan had once said. Each ‘haha’ means that I am too lazy to pay attention to you.

“Zi Ling, it was Jiejie who was wrong in the past, but help Jiejie, even if it is only for your nephew and niece.” Yan Jin Ling’s expression was not very well. She was only able to say this to Yan Jin Qiu because there was no path of retreat left for her.

Hua Xi Wan looked at the expressionless Yan Jin Qiu and then tilted her face down.

She knew why Lin Ping Junzhu had come to beg Yan Jin Qiu—because in all of Jing, other than Yan Jin Qiu, there was no one left who could save her. The Judicial Of ice had two theories about the death of Lin Ping Junma. One was that the Crown Prince had killed the junma, the other was that Lin Ping Junzhu had done it. As for the Emperor and Empress, it was best for them to push the matter onto the head of Lin Ping Junzhu. It was pro itable in every way to use someone else’s daughter to trade for the peace of their son.

If it wasn’t because the matter of Li Meiren and the Crown Prince was still unresolved, the matter of Lin Ping Junma would have already been put onto the head of Lin Ping Junzhu. It was a pity that the Crown Prince had done too many things, and the Emperor and Empress had no way of sweeping away this matter even if they wanted to. So right now, Lin Ping Junzhu had a thread of hope.

However, there were only two choices in this case. If it wasn’t her, it was the Crown Prince. Who would offend the Emperor for her? If the consequences were serious, they would even be accused of being a rebel or slandering the Crown Prince.

“The of icials of the Judicial Of ice are honest and strict; they will de initely investigate the truth of the matter. I am just a wang ye without any real power. I probably cannot help.” Yan Jin Qiu’s hand caressed the tea cup. “Jiejie’s words make me frightened.”

“Yan Zi Ling!” Yan Jin Ling suddenly stood and glared hard at Yan Jin Qiu. Then she dispiritedly sat back down on the chair. “What can make you willing to help me?”

Yan Jin Qiu looked with an insincere smile at Yan Jin Ling. “Jiejie, I have already said that the of icials of the Judicial Of ice are honest and strict. You do not need to worry about this matter.”

Yan Jin Ling bit down on her bottom lip. She looked with red-rimmed eyes at this man who was clearly smiling but was cruel and emotionless. “Do you not remember any of our feelings at all?”

“Ha.” Yan Jin Qiu laughed lightly. “Jiejie’s joke is so interesting. Don’t tell me, now that Lin Ping Junma is dead, you forgot what you said when you married him?”

Yan Jin Ling’s face paled. She looked dazedly at Yan Jin Qiu and did not speak.

Under such a heavy atmosphere, Hua Xi Wan slowly sipped tea and drawled, “It has become increasingly cold these days.”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu reached out to touch the back of her hand. After con irming the warmth of her hand, he said, “We are going to eat hotpot tonight. You were talking about it a few days ago. I have already gotten people to prepare all kinds of game, and the taste when it is cooked will be good.”

“En.” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “Sleeping in spring and summer, tired in autumn, and lazy in winter—there aren’t many days in a year when I want to move.”

“Those of lazy personality would feel drowsy no matter the time,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a smile. “Looking at the idle days you live, even I feel admiration.”

“You won’t have them even if you admire them. I have a husband who takes care of me, loves me, and supports me—do you have one?” Hua Xi Wan raised her eyebrow with a challenging expression.

There wasn’t a man who would dislike hearing these words. It seemed to be a challenge, but in reality, it was praising one’s husband. Yan Jin Qiu was not an exception. He smiled at Hua Xi Wan’s words. “You are right. You have such a good husband, you should live days like this.”

Yan Jin Ling who was watching the two being lovey-dovey felt her anger burn hotter. She almost could not control it. What did the two mean? Did they pretend she did not exist, or were they mocking the days she lived after she married?

“Even if you are not willing to help me, why are you mocking me?!” Yan Jin Ling stood and said with tears, “You want to force me to die?”

“From beginning to end, the one who is forcing you to die is yourself!” Hua Xi Wan said coldly. “When I irst met Jiejie, I was polite and courteous, but you made it dif icult for me at every turn. Was it I who was forcing you?”

“Later, in Jing, whenever your were present, when have you ever given me face, and have I ever argued with you?” Hua Xi Wan looked at her. “In the past, you abandoned your young brother and persisted in marrying that man. The people in Jing all said that your mother cannot raise children properly, having only un ilial children. Even Jin Qiu was criticized. Was there someone who forced you?”

“Your junma followed the Crown Prince constantly, was jealous of Jin Qiu’s abilities, frequently spoke out of turn. Have you, the elder sister, ever stopped him or given words of advice? You did not, you have always chosen to obey your husband, and for him, you even purposely neglected your didi. You caused the people in Jing to laugh at him that even Jin Qiu’s jiejie does not have a good opinion of him. If not for his talent and the favor of the Empress Dowager, there would be numerous people in Jing laughing at him—have you thought of all this?”

“You did not, you only thought of your man, your little family. What is your brother, he is just someone whom you could step on when you needed to.” Hua Xi Wan slapped the table and said harshly, “You only think about other people helping you—why don’t you think about why other people do not help you?”

“What is the wrong in pursuing what I want?” Yan Jin Ling shrieked. “You are an outsider, you cannot lecture me!”

“I am not an outsider, I am the upright and peerless Xian Wang Fei. As for you, the jiejie who never thought of your brother—you are the true outsider.” Hua Xi Wan snorted. “You should rejoice that I never hit women. Otherwise, I would not just lecture you today but hit you.”

“A person as rough and crude as you is not itting to be a wang fei!” Yan Jin Ling who was forced to speechlessness by Hua Xi Wan spoke after a few moments as she pointed a trembling inger at Hua Xi Wan. “You whore!”

“I’m me, so what? Who made it so this person is so blind to like me?” Hua Xi Wan tsked and shook her head. “What, bite me.”

Mu Tong who was pretending to be invisible gaped at Wang Fei’s words. The maliciousness of her words, the challenge of her tone, the proudness of her attitude—even a person made from mud would be so angry that they would jump up, much less the proud junzhu. He felt that he did not dare to look at Junzhu’s expression.

“Good, good, good,” Yan Jin Ling repeated. She covered her chest. She managed to steady her body by holding the arm of her chair. She turned to Yan Jin Qiu and said, “You allow your wang fei to speak to me like this?”

Yan Jin Qiu coughed and then looked wryly at Hua Xi Wan. “There is nothing to be done about it—who made it so that ben wang is blind.”

Yan Jin Ling stilled. She couldn’t understand what Yan Jin Qiu meant. Dumbstruck for a long time, she then gaped at Yan Jin Qiu and almost did not believe that her didi could say something like this.

Hua Xi Wan jerked the corners of her lips and smiled. She seemed very content with Yan Jin Qiu’s performance. Then she smiled seductively, “Wang Ye treats qie so well.”

“Demoness, calamity!” Yan Jin Ling understood. “So it is you manipulating from the shadows so that Zi Ling is not willing to help me!”

Hua Xi Wan gave an extremely lirtatious smile. “Jiejie, you cannot slander me. Wang Ye is handsome and of martial bearing—how can the words of a weak woman such as qie affect his thoughts?”

Her appearance in addition to her purposefully seductive attitude was the polar opposite of a virtuous woman—a fox demoness.

Mu Tong silently knelt in the corner. Wang Fei, please don’t play-act— what to do if Lin Ping Junzhu faints in anger?

“Xi Wan is right, how can ben wang be someone like that?” As Yan Jin Qiu said this, his hand reached towards Hua Xi Wan’s hand.

Wang Ye, are you a last hit expert?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Sixty-Five: Snowy Night

Yan Jin Qiu had never seen Hua Xi Wan being so cruel to another female. In his impression, she was usually very lazy, elegant, or indifferent. But no matter the time, she was always beautiful, as though the shortcomings of her personality had nothing to do with her.

But suddenly, when this woman showed her shrewish side, and was ighting viciously against someone else, he had a feeling that he was being protected by this woman.

It really was… a strange feeling.

There was near and far in relationships between people. He also had his close and distant relationships. After the times in the past when this elder sister of his had damaged the reputation and power of Xian Wang Fu for a man again and again, this jiejie was just a stranger to him. Now his wang fei was ighting with this sister who ranked lower than a stranger, so he naturally helped his wang fei. What more was there to say about that?

“The people say that Xian Wang Fei is a female calamity. I had thought that you would not be bewitched by beauty, but it seems that I had too high an opinion of you. You are just the same as other men.” Yan Jin Ling was extremely furious and she did not consider her words before speaking them. The reason why she dared to speak like this was because she and Yan Jin Qiu were born of the same mother. In the past,

she had done so many things, but Yan Jin Qiu was able to tolerate her. Now, he would do the same.

“For a woman like this who only has beauty, who is jealous and unvirtuous, you do not consider any fraternal affection. When it is the anniversary of Mother’s death, with what face will you go to see her?” Yan Jin Ling also held anger. When Mother had been sick, the cefei in the wang fu had risen against her due to the favor she held. In order to protect her younger brother, her mother had begged the Empress Dowager to raise him in the palace. However, she, the daughter, had been left in the wang fu to see that favored cefei show off.

Then Mother passed due to sickness. Didi became the shizi of the wang fu, and the cefei and the son she had birthed lost favor with her father. However, her good father and brother did not care for her happiness and wanted to marry her to a young master of a prestigious family. She rebelled and she succeeded. However, people said that her father died due to his anger towards her.

Presently, her husband had been assassinated and no one would defend her. They accused her as the culprit of her husband’s murder, and even her sister-in-law dared to bully her! Hua shi was just the daughter of a prestigious family, but she dared to bully a female of the Imperial Family. This was taking advantage of one’s status to bully others!

Hua Xi Wan laughed rather than get angry about Yan Jin Ling calling her a female calamity. “Jiejie, you schemed against your didi at every turn for a man, you even stubbornly had your marriage when your fatherwang was sick—do you have the face to see Mother?”

“Shut your mouth, you whore!” Yan Jin Ling pointed at Hua Xi Wan’s nose and scolded. “He favored a concubine and neglected Mother then. What is there about a man like that for me to feel guilty about?”

“Of course a man like that is not worth it, but is your didi not worth it?” Hua Xi Wan gripped Yan Jin Ling’s wrist. “Even if you have the right to pursue your own happiness, and there is no obligation for you to sacri ice yourself for you didi, you cannot damage your own brother in order to pursue your own happiness. Or is it that it is not permitted for you to sacri ice for your didi but it is right for your didi to sacri ice for you?”

She pushed aside Yan Jin Ling’s hand. Hua Xi Wan watched as the other stumbled back before she steadied herself and said in a cold voice, “How can there be such a good matter in the world, for others to sacri ice when you need it, and for you to question it when other people have needs? You think you are a goddess, and everyone in the world should let you have your way?!”

The other wanted to ight with her; had Hua Xi Wan stayed for so many years in the entertainment circles for nothing?

“Shut up, shut up!” Yan Jin Ling did not know what to say to Hua Xi Wan. Angrily, she rushed forward and wanted to slap Hua Xi Wan.

The entire room was silent. In the corner, Mu Tong, Bai Xia and the other personal servants shuddered.

Waving her slightly pained hand, Hua Xi Wan looked expressionlessly at Yan Jin Ling. “Do not assume that I do not hit women. When you leave today, you can announce that I, Hua Xi Wan, bully others using my status, step on people when they are down, and you can even go to the palace to complain about me, but I want you to remember this. This is Xian Wang Fu, this is not Lin Ping Junzhu Fu where you can do as you will!”

Yan Jin Ling was stunned by this slap and did not react for a moment. When she inally reacted and wanted to retaliate, she was stopped by Bai Xia and Hong Ying. The two servants who accompanied her today wanted to go forward and help but were stopped by a smiling Mu Tong.

“Two misses, as servants, it is better for us not to meddle in the affairs of our superiors. Otherwise, it will be very hard for me.”

The two servant girls had urgent expressions as they looked at Mu Tong. They looked at their mistress who was being held back and then they knelt with a bang.

“Tsk.” Mu Tong looked at the two young servant girls and snorted lightly. At least, they were perceptive. At least, they had more brains than this junzhu. Right now, many in Jing knew that Lin Ping Junzhu was a pawn about to be sacri iced. Wang Ye had asked for mercy on her behalf in front of the entire court in the morning session today. But the result was that not long after he returned to the fu, Lin Ping Junzhu had come to make a fuss. Adding on what Lin Ping Junzhu had done in the

previous years, anyone would say that Wang Ye was a generous person and Lin Ping Junzhu was extreme.

Wang Ye was a man and it naturally was not good for him to descend into an argument with Lin Ping Junzhu. Fortunately, there was the valiant wang fei present. Otherwise, the matter would not be so satisfactorily resolved today. Mu Tong looked at the formidable wang fei and sighed inside. As expected of a miss whose maternal family were martial of icers—she was valiant in every aspect.

“Hua Xi Wan, you have given me such humiliation today. Let’s look at the future; you will not be better off than I am.” Yan Jin Ling was held back and could not go near Hua Xi Wan. She was so angry she said vicious words. “No matter how beautiful you are, there will be a day when you become old. When it is that time, do you think the man beside you will tolerate you being so horrid as you have been today?”

Yan Jin Qiu’s expression darkened and he put down the teacup in his hand. He raised his eyes to look at Yan Jin Ling. “There is no need for you to worry about the affairs between my wife and I. Xi Wan is not just good in appearance. See the guest out!”

“Do not send me off, I will naturally go.” Yan Jin Ling smiled coldly as she pushed aside Bai Xia and Hong Ying. She said scornfully, “Hua shi, you really think the man beside you is truly as you see him?” After saying these words that would cause suspicions, Yan Jin Ling turned and left.

Yan Jin Qiu looked at Hua Xi Wan and did not speak.

Hua Xi Wan rubbed her hand. After she sat back down in her chair, she said, “You are really siblings with her?”

Yan Jin Qiu could only respond by grimacing at Hua Xi Wan’s action of “pouring salt onto the wound.” He said, “Yes, full-blooded siblings.”

“All right, do not think too much. There are all kinds of wonders in the world, and all kinds of people.” Hua Xi Wan reached to pat his shoulder. “I’m going to nap for a while. When the hotpot is prepared, then wake me up.” Waving her hand, she left with her four beautiful servant girls and moved towards the main yard from the main hall.

The main hall instantly quieted. Yan Jin Qiu looked at the light slippling from the door and sat motionlessly on the chair.

“Wang Ye…” Mu Tong looked worriedly at the person sitting on the chair and called lightly.

“What is it?” Yan Jin Qiu looked with slightly upturned corners of his mouth at Mu Tong. He seemed to be in a very good mood.

Mu Tong lowered his head and then said, “The person who had been doing things to the food in the fu committed suicide in the prison a few

days ago. Her roommate was taken by Wang Fei to the main yard to serve.”

“Since Wang Fei kept her, then there should not be a problem.” Yan Jin Qiu stood. When he walked to the doorway, he put his hands behind his back. “She is not someone who does not know the measure of her actions. If she dares to do this, then it naturally is because she made certain the other has a clean background before she made the decision.”

“This small one understands.” Mu Tong buried his head deeper. It was fortunate that the matter of the kitchen had been discovered early on and had not disturbed Wang Fei. Otherwise, the matter would not be smoothed over so easily. Even though Wang Ye had never said anything, in his view, Wang Fei held a high position in Wang Ye’s mind.

“Do not pay any more attention to Lin Ping Junzhu.” Yan Jin Qiu tilted his face down and looked at the ine snow swirling outside. “Ben wang has already treated her well enough.”

“Yes.” Mu Tong responded in a light voice.

In the main yard, Hua Xi Wan spread her arms to let Chen Qiu and Hong Ying help her change her clothing. Bai Xia and Zi Shan were cleaning up the bed. After everything was cleaned and sorted, Bai Xia helped Hua Xi Wan lie down. “Wang Fei, you did not give Lin Ping Junzhu much face today. In the future…”

“What do I care about her future?” Hua Xi Wan pulled the blanket on her body and said with a yawn, “Someone like her is just asking to be hit and scolded. She already called me a demoness, so why should I act virtuous for her?” Also, while she felt that Yan Jin Qiu was full of laws, it was her own business how much she scorned her man. It wasn’t any other person’s business. Did Yan Jin Ling think the whole world was her mother?

Seeing Hua Xi Wan close her eyes, Bai Xia did not dare to ask more. With Zi Shan, they put down the coverlet and then lightly left. In reality, what she was more worried about was that Wang Ye will have a low opinion of Wang Fei after seeing her like that.

The men of the world like gentle and elegant women. Wang Fei had been so valiant just now, and she was afraid that Wang Ye would be shocked and scared.

What Bai Xia did not know was that, for Yan Jin Qiu, this was not a shock but a surprise. He was not a lusty person to start with. Seeing Hua Xi Wan even put aside the image of a re ined and noble woman for him, he even felt that Hua Xi Wan’s slap had another kind of style.

This was the pot having a itting pot lid. Even the coldest and most calculating man understood love, and even the laziest woman was treasured by someone.

Maybe, these two together could also be called a heavenly match.

In the night, the snow increased. Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu consumed delicious hotpot, drank a light fruit wine, and were very happy.

Seeing the two in close intimacy, Bai Xia put down her worries. No matter what, as long as her superiors were happy, she would be reassured.

Because she had drunk a bit of wine, Hua Xi Wan was tipsy as she leaned back against the bed after washing. Looking at Yan Jin Qiu who was sitting at the table, she curled a inger and smiled seductively. “Little Beauty, come over and kiss Jiejie.”

Little Beauty-His Highness-Xian Wang laughed and then walked over. Then he pressed a kiss to the cheek of the true beauty.

In the white snowy winter night, twisting among the brocade red blankets was something to be envied.

In the morning, Hua Xi Wan lay on the bed and allowed Yan Jin Qiu to massage her waist for her. No matter how he urged, she was not willing to get up.

“Press gently up a bit. That’s right, a little lighter.”

“To the left a little, the left.”

“Get up and eat.”

“Don’t want to move, waist is sore.”

“I will have someone bring the wooden table to put on the bed.”

“Don’t want to eat, waist is sore.”

“It really is sore…”

“Sore…”

Mu Tong heard rustling sounds come from the room again. Silently, he took the other servants and retreated outside.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

县主

[1] xianzhu: one rank lower than junzhu. Title usually given to a daughter of a junwang, or to a female of the Imperial Family or of a noble family, by the Emperor’s decree.

Chapter Sixty-Six: Life and Death

“You are still angry.” Yan Jin Qiu put a steaming bowl of soup in front of Hua Xi Wan and said with a warm smile, “The pigeon soup you like so much; it has been simmering on the ire for a long time. Taste it—it is very good.”

Hua Xi Wan glanced at him and silently drank. After she inished, she wiped the corner of her mouth and said with an arched eyebrow, “They say that Wang Ye is an elegant scholar. I think that Wang Ye is a very strong and large man.” She rubbed her waist and snorted.

“In front of others, I’m naturally a gentleman, but in front of Xi Wan, this gentleman will change into…” Yan Jin Qiu whispered by her ear, “… a hungry pervert.”

“Wang Ye, do those women in Jing who are in love with you know that you are not very proper?” Hua Xi Wan threw her handkerchief onto his hand and then stood. “Out of consideration for Wang Ye’s conduct, I should stay further away from Wang Ye.”

Knowing that he had gone overboard last night and in the morning, Yan Jin Qiu was not angry at being glared a few times by his beautiful wang fei. He went forward with a smile and allowed Hua Xi Wan to continue mocking him. When Hua Xi Wan’s anger eased slightly, he inally went forward and said, “Do not be angry, do not be angry. Didn’t you want to see the face changing act from the Shu Region? A few days ago, I had Mu Tong invite to the fu the best Shu Region company in Jing—how about I accompany you to see them change faces?”

Hua Xi Wan looked at the snow loating outside. She thought and then said, “No, let’s wait until the snow has stopped. Have them practice in the fu. If they are performing in the cold wind and snow, they will freeze on the stage.”

“Xi Wan is so kind, it really is my good fortune.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan said with a smile at the corner of her lips, “It has nothing to do with kindness. I just do not like unrelated people enduring hardship for these insigni icant matters. The common saying is that if people do not offend me, I will not offend them. If people offend me, I will make them pay.”

“This is true.” Yan Jin Qiu showed a slightly sincere smile on his face as his hands went around her waist. He said with a light laugh, “Xi Wan and I are born to be a pair, and no one can compare.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled but did not speak. In terms of personality, both she and Yan Jin Qiu were not kind people, but she usually was one who did

not move unless the enemy moved. Yan Jin Qiu was more vicious. If the enemy did not move, he would force the other to move. However, it would be humorous to call them a heavenly match. The two of them were both people who loved themselves more. How could they love other people without any hesitation?

In her previous life, she had walked among the entertainment circles and seen many people getting together and then splitting apart. Those loves that started with true love would end with separation. Divorce, cheating, patronage—these were things that were frequently seen in the circle. That was also among the artists who had some fame, and not even in this era when it was legal for men to take concubines.

“I know that you do not believe me.” Yan Jin Qiu’s warm breath was against Hua Xi Wan’s neck. “But it does not matter. We will have a long time together.”

Hua Xi Wan lowered her eyes and the corners of her mouth curled.

The news that Lin Ping Junzhu and Xian Wang Fu had parted ways quickly spread through Jing. The people whom Lin Ping Junzhu had offended in the past had originally been wary of Xian Wang Fu’s power and did not dare to act. After hearing the news, some of the womenfolk could not maintain their composure and started to gossip behind her back.

“Who doesn’t know that this junzhu is usually high up and looks down on people? In the past, she frequently criticized Xian Wang Fei behind

her back. The wang fei has never said anything about her. Oh, the wang fei has bad luck to have such a sister-in-law.”

“This is nothing. Didn’t this one make a fuss about getting married in the past? I heard that the family she married isn’t very acceptable. The Luo Family used her and did many bad things in Jiang City. That junma who was assassinated had a lirtation with a courtesan two years ago in Jiang City. He also created lyrics and songs for that courtesan. If the junzhu hadn’t made a fuss, maybe something would have happened between the junma and the courtesan.”

“Really, she is pitiful if you think about it. She thought that she married a good man. Who knew that the Luo Family would be like that. Luo Zhong Jing is also not one to remain faithful to one person. This makes her persistence a few years ago in Jing a joke.”

“Yes, she is both pitiful and hateful. It is a pity that she has given her heart away for nothing, but it is hateful that she could give up anything for this man.”

The women of Jing were emotional when they discussed the matter of Lin Ping Junzhu. But in reality, it was just because life was too boring and Lin Ping Junzhu was something that they could chat about.

Some felt that Lin Ping Junzhu was terrifying to act against someone beside whom she had slept. However, more people were laughing at her because those with eyes knew that Lin Ping Junzhu would not go to assassinate Lin Ping Junma. But so what? The Emperor wanted to save

the Crown Prince, so the person who killed Luo Zhong Jing had to be Lin Ping Junzhu.

No matter what these people thought of Lin Ping Junzhu, many people in the Imperial House felt distressed and sad as well. Today, Lin Ping Junzhu was pushed out for the Crown Prince. In the future, who else would become the Crown Prince’s shield?

The Crown Prince was so unwise, but he was the heir to the country. The future of their Great Zhao Dynasty was in danger.

At court, the junior justice of the Judicial Of ice was scolded harshly by the Emperor. Ever since the day when the Crown Prince was sent to the Heavenly Prison, almost every day, the members of the Judicial Of ice would be picked upon by the Emperor for a scolding. The of icials at court were used to it.

“There is no need to discuss this matter further. Lin Ping Junzhu hired an assassin to kill Junma; this action is malicious!” Qilong Emperor waved his hand and the case of Luo Zhong Jing was settled.

The entire court was silent. The of icials who were less brave buried their heads, and some of the Imperial House members had ugly expressions.

“Emperor, this case has many suspicious places. We cannot be so rash in…”

“Shut your mouth!” Qilong Emperor interrupted Zhang Hou’s words and looked coldly at him. He said, “The one who said that Lin Ping Junzhu was suspicious was you, and now the one saying that there are many suspicious parts in the case is also you. Zhen moved you to the Judicial Of ice to investigate cases, not for you to waver. If it wasn’t Lin Ping Junzhu who hired the assassin, tell me, who was it?”

Zhang Hou opened his mouth. Looking at the Emperor who was sitting with a menacing aura on the dragon throne, he helplessly closed his mouth and touched his head to the ground. He did not speak further.

The members of the Imperial Family looked at Xian Wang who was standing in the irst row on the left and seemed to want to see what his attitude was.

“Emperor.” Yan Jin Qiu stepped forward with his left leg and made a bow. “This subject thinks that the sister felt great love for Junma—how could she bear to harm him?”

“Xian Wang, you are not correct. There are many women in the world who can do some things that are not understandable when their love turns to hatred.” Count Jing Ping objected. “Everyone knows what actions Lin Ping Junzhu made in the past in order to marry Luo Junma. When she found that Luo Zhong Jing was unfaithful to her, it is understandable if she wanted to murder him.”

The of icials present were speechless when they heard this. If this kind of reasoning could stand, many men in Jing would not be alive. Not to speak of anyone else, just Count Jing Ping himself. His original wife came from the Zhang Clan and was a gentle and generous woman. However, he had a close relationship with Chen shi who was already married. After Zhang shi passed away due to sickness, he immediately had Chen shi divorce her husband and then married Chen shi.

Their Great Zhao Dynasty was not as conservative as the previous dynasty, but the conduct of Count Jing Ping was too much.

“I heard long ago that Zhang shi was in love with Count, ilial to the elders, and loving to the children,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a smile. “Is this true?”

Count Jing Ping’s face lushed. He knew that what he had done in the past was not good, and when Yan Jin Qiu mentioned this, he could not ind the words to object.

“Count, you are standing here, and this is proof that it is rare for a person to take someone’s life because love turned to hatred.” Yan Jin Qiu raised his hands towards the dragon throne. “Please, Emperor, investigate.”

Someone in the court laughed but they did not laugh very clearly. So Count Jing Ping did not know who was laughing at him. He could only shrink back with a red face and red ears. He did not dare to speak.

“Zhen knows that Virtuous Nephew is a generous and honest person, but this matter is not child’s play. Lin Ping Junzhu has committed such a heinous act, and zhen has to punish her.” Qilong Emperor knew that this was unfair to the Xian Wang Family so he said, “However, because Luo Zhong Jing was disrespectful to the Imperial House, and his conduct unacceptable, zhen will pardon Lin Ping Junzhu’s death sentence, and take away her rank as junzhu to become xianzhu[1]. She will have a punishment of ifteen strikes with the staff, will be ined ive thousand taels of silver, and will not receive her allowance for three years. In the future, she will not be allowed to leave Jing.”

Yan Jin Qiu slowly knelt. “Thanks, Emperor, for the grace.”

This punishment wasn’t heavy. However, a xianzhu in Jing who had been punished by the Emperor and had the crime of killing her husband on her head didn’t have any face left in the eyes of Jing. Until death, she would not be able to erase this blemish.

Everyone present knew that if Xian Wang had not come out, this Lin Ping Junzhu would have been worse off. Maybe, she wouldn’t even be able to keep a title of xianzhu. Then her children would be ones to be pitied.

When they thought of the rumors of Lin Ping Junzhu causing a great ruckus in Xian Wang Fu, many major of icials sighed inside. This Xian Wang was very good, but he just did not have good relatives. Even his own sister dragged him down.

After the court session ended, some of the people from the Imperial House were around Yan Jin Qiu and wanted to comfort him but did not know how to speak. Everyone knew that Lin Ping Junzhu had nothing to do with the assassination of Luo Zhong Jing. But since the Emperor was using her in place of the Crown Prince, what could clansmen like them who seemed noble but did not have any real power do?

It was very kind for Xian Wang to speak up for Lin Ping Xianzhu at this time. If Lin Ping Xianzhu had not persisted in wanting to marry into the Luo Family, this would not have happened.

The Imperial Will could not be resisted, the Heavenly Will could not be resisted.

“Zi Ling, at court today, you have done your best about Lin Ping Xianzhu. In the future, do not mention this in case you enrage His Majesty and have yourself also fall in.” Xu Wang combed his grey beard and walked next to Yan Jin Qiu. He said with a smile, “The winter is getting cold this year. This old man is advanced in years and should send a memo to rest at home due to sickness.”

When he said this, Xu Wang had a rosy face, and his eyes were alert. He didn’t seem sick at all.

Yan Jin Qiu bowed and said, “You are too serious; you are the backbone of the court. If you are sick, wouldn’t the Emperor lose a strong assistant?”

“When a person is old, they should recognize it.” Xu Wang laughed and then turned to look back at the golden throne room. “Those who are old cannot keep above the surface of these muddied waters. This old man’s eldest di son is a few years older than you but of a simple personality. In the future, I’ll have him follow you around to learn your gentlemanly conduct, so that he will not look like a dullard.”

“Shizi is of a steady conduct, and he is not dull.” The smile at Yan Jin Qiu’s lips grew more evident. “It will be the two of us who will mutually improve.”

“En, young people should learn.” Xu Wang nodded and left as he caressed his beard. The steps were so light and fast he really did not seem weak.

After Luo Zhong Jing’s case was inished, Qilong Emperor resisted the pressure from the Imperial Clan and released the Crown Prince from the Heavenly Prison. However, he was not sent back to his Crown Prince Fu to rest but was held under house arrest in Zhu Que Palace to express that the Emperor did not have any intentions of providing special treatment.

However, this was just acting for people to see. There was a world of difference between the Heavenly Prison and Zhu Que Palace. Other than the Crown Prince being unable to move around freely in the palace, his attire and food were just the same as normal. When he heard he inally had a child, he was so happy he ate half a bowl more of rice.

Maybe it was because he ate that half bowl of rice after he came out of the Heavenly Prison, his stomach felt pained in the night. He went to the privy multiple times in the night. When the palace attendants reported to the Empress, the Empress had the people summon the grand doctors.

While the Crown Prince was not allowed to go out of the Zhu Que Palace, it was not forbidden for people to come in. So the Empress easily managed to see the Crown Prince. Seeing the Crown Prince who had gained weight, the Empress’ tears were forced back. Just as she sat down, the Crown Prince pressed his stomach and went to the privy.

After the Crown Prince had gone back and forth a few times, the grand doctor inally arrived. After the use of silver needles to pierce some points on the Crown Prince’s body, the diarrhea inally halted.

“Your Highness, this subject used the needles to stop the diarrhea, but this is only effective for a time. You must drink the medicine.” After the grand doctor inished making a list, he stood and was going to get medicine for the Crown Prince.

“Wait a moment.” The Empress called the grand doctor. After her expression changed a few times, she said in a grave voice, “Be careful when you get the medicine—have the Crown Prince recover as soon as possible.”

“Yes.” The grand doctor was slightly puzzled. Was it really so dif icult for the Empress to say these words?

However, he was long used to the complex minds of the people of the inner palace. The grand doctor did not even think when he turned and left Zhu Que Palace.

“Mother-Empress, what is it?” The Crown Prince was dispirited as he lay on the bed. He felt that the Empress’ gaze when she looked at him wasn’t right. He couldn’t help but ask, “Has something happened?”

“Nothing.” The Empress tucked the blanket in. “The Crown Princess is pregnant now. Ben gong worries for you being alone in the palace and will prepare Chen liangdi to come to Zhu Que Palace to serve you. What do you think?”

“Chen liangdi is dull—why have her come?” The Crown Prince disliked the dullness of Chen liangdi and said with a creased brow, “Why don’t you have Zhao liangdi come? She is interesting.”

“Ben gong is having her come to take care of your health, not to play with you.” The Empress sighed and then said, “Right now, the number of eyes on you is unknown, so bear it for now. After this matter passes, then you can think about other things. If you are not willing to have Chen liangdi come, then have a taijian serve you.”

The hard life of the Heavenly Prison had caused the Crown Prince to be more docile, so after the Empress said this, he did not argue. He silently agreed. While he did not like the lack of spirit in Chen liangdi, it was better to have something than nothing.

“Mother-Empress, please spend more effort on the Crown Princess. It would be good if it is a son.” Thinking that he will have children, the Crown Prince said in a good mood, “What did Father-Emperor say?”

“Your father-emperor is very happy.” The Empress moved her eyes away to not look at the Crown Prince. She said in a lat tone, “There are palace guards in the Crown Prince Fu. The female attendants serving inside are all people from the palace. You do not need to worry.”

The Crown Prince relaxed. “It seems that Father-Emperor places great importance on this child. This means that he does not dislike me.”

“You are still ill; rest early.” The Empress stood. “Ben gong should return.”

The Crown Prince felt that the Empress was slightly strange, but he did not ask questions. He lipped over and slept. After his stay for a while in the Heavenly Prison, it was the silkworm blankets of the palace that were the most comfortable.

The drama of Jing ended with Lin Ping Junzhu becoming Lin Ping Xianzhu. The assassination of Luo Zhong Jing was put down like this. The Luo Family members who had rushed to Jing were discontent, but they could only let it go. In Jiang City, they had relied on the power of Lin Ping Junzhu to dominate Jiang City. Now that Luo Zhong Jing was dead and Lin Ping Xianzhu was the culprit, what could they say? What did they dare to say?

Should they say that the Emperor’s punishment was too light, or that Luo Zhong Jing had died and there was injustice?

The clap of thunder or the rain and dew, punishment or favor—all was by the grace of the Emperor. The little Luo Family did not even have a place in the enormous Jing. How could they have the courage to offend the nobility of Jing?

In the end, what they received was a jar of ash and some insigni icant objects. They didn’t even see the face of the Emperor before they were sent out of the city. As for Luo Zhong Jing’s son and daughter, they did not dare to ask for them. Even if Yan Jin Ling was not a junzhu, she was still a xianzhu. Did they dare ask her about the Luo Family children?

It was normal for the mother to raise the children now that Luo Zhong Jing was dead. What could the Luo Family say?

“Lin Ping Xianzhu?” Hua Xi Wan looked strangely at Yan Jin Qiu. “His Majesty really… pushed this onto her?”

This was too obvious. Probably half of the people in Jing would not believe this result. Qilong Emperor’s actions were cooling off the hearts of the people.

One had to feel sympathy. Qilong Emperor did not even act out the full set; he really did not think about other people.

“I tried my best, and it was only to keep the title of a xianzhu for her.” Yan Jin Qiu drank a sip of hot tea and spoke slowly. “The fu does not have to receive her if she comes in the future. There isn’t much left between us siblings except her hatred of me.”

Hua Xi Wan played with the jade comb in her hand and did not speak.

A short while later, she heard Mu Tong come in to report that the Crown Prince was heavily ill.

“Didn’t the Crown Prince just come out of the Heavenly Prison yesterday? How come his illness increased in the span of one night?” Hua Xi Wan looked in puzzlement at Mu Tong. Was it because he was too used to living in the Heavenly Prison and wasn’t used to it when he moved back to the grand and comfortable palace?

“Yesterday at night, the Crown Prince had diarrhea that could not be stopped. After the grand doctor came, everything was ine. However, after the morning passed today, the Crown Prince suddenly spat blood and he is having a fever.” Mu Tong said worriedly, “His Majesty has already sent his Imperial Doctor whom he normally uses. Supposedly, the situation is very serious. The Empress has already knelt in the Buddha hall to pray.”

Why did the signs seem to appear as though it was poison?

However, for someone like the Crown Prince who never tried to accumulate good will, was prayer actually effective? If the Great Zhao Dynasty really had someone like this as Emperor, it would be better if he was… She realized that she was thinking too much. Hua Xi Wan coughed dryly and turned to look at Yan Jin Qiu. “Jin Qiu, this matter…”

“The Crown Prince is the heir to the country. He is seriously ill and we cannot sit still. Let us make a visit to the palace.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at the sky outside and said, “It is still early and we will not be late if we change irst.”

Translated, this was—we will go slowly, and it was not good to get there early?

Some things could not be said properly; this was a bad habit of the Imperial Family and prestigious families. If this continued, she would be infected.

When visiting for an illness, one had to wear light colors that were not too somber. Otherwise, if nothing had happened to the person at this time yet you were dressed somberly, wasn’t that cursing the other to die early?

After choosing a blue rabbit fur palace robe and several pieces of jewelry to put on, Hua Xi Wan joined Yan Jin Qiu onto the carriage.

There were basins of coal in the carriage, so even though the wind lapped outside, she did not feel cold.

“I always feel that it is best to lie in bed under the blankets in wintry wind like this.” Hua Xi Wan raised the curtain to look outside. She was alarmed by the bone-aching cold wind and took her hand back. “Curled up in bed, drinking a fragrant tea, reading some novels—that is the best experience.”

“Did you read the novels that I had the servants deliver to you a few days ago?” Yan Jin Qiu gripped her hand in his. “If you do not like them, I will help you ind more interesting ones.”

“Some are acceptable. In any case, they are used to while away the time. I do not have high standards.” Hua Xi Wan pulled on her hand yet wasn’t able to pull her hand away. So she leaned her entire body on Yan Jin Qiu and then said lightly, “Someone said to me that the Crown Princess’ pregnancy is very suspicious. Do you think…”

Yan Jin Qiu put his other hand around her shoulder and said in a calm tone, “The Crown Prince is infertile—how can he have children?”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan had the thought that her expectation had been right. Her brow creased. “Then the Crown Princess is faking a pregnancy to get the Crown Prince out?”

“The pregnancy is true, but the child is not the Crown Prince’s.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled. “The Empress most likely also knows.”

“Since the Empress knows…” Hua Xi Wan’s expression suddenly changed. Was the matter as she had guessed? “Is, this child is…”

This really challenged her morals. She felt she was unable to speak of it.

Yan Jin Qiu looked with a sarcastic smile at her and drawled, “What?”

Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow. “What is Wang Ye thinking? I didn’t say anything at all.”

“I did not ask about anything.” Yan Jin Qiu pressed his forehead to hers and laughed. “Xi Wan knows me.”

“Tsk.” Hua Xi Wan wanted to say to him, Don’t think too much, but she did not say it.

She would be generous and allow this man to be self-satis ied.

At this time, the grand doctors illed the yard outside Zhu Que Palace as they knelt. Some of the older grand doctors could not tolerate the cold

that came when the snow melted and permeated their legs, and they fainted.

But even when they fell down unconscious, no one dared to help them up. They had to let these old grand doctors lie on the snow. As to whether they would be able to survive, it depended on themselves.

When Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu arrived together, they saw four or so grand doctors unconscious in the snow and several others kneeling beside them. She paused slightly in her steps and then sighed lightly.

Yan Jin Qiu turned to glance at her and held her hand, saying, “Let’s go.”

In the imperial palace, they could not be the master of other people’s life and death.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Sixty-Seven: Match in Heaven

As one of the womenfolk, Hua Xi Wan did not make a bedside visit after she entered Zhu Que Palace. From a distance, she saw that the Crown Prince’s complexion was waxy yellow and much of his vitality had disappeared. There was a female dressed in matronly palace attire standing by the bed. Even though her face was illed with respect, dullness was evident and she was lackluster in her actions.

The Crown Princess was silently crying as she sat on the side. However, her complexion was well, and there were several servant women around her who were guarding her.

Seeing the servant women’s postures, the womenfolk of the Imperial Clan were not unperceptive to go near the Crown Princess. They all picked places slightly further away to sit down, and no one dared to speak up.

Of the imperial womenfolk present, Hua Xi Wan was the highestranked. She took a drink of tea and used an embroidered handkerchief to wipe her mouth that was not wet at all. She stood and then bowed towards the Empress. “Empress, how is the Crown Prince?”

The Empress looked at the insincere concern of these women and wanted to shout at them to not act like this. She felt disgusted looking at them, but she did not shout. Because she was the Empress. She would not, and could not, lose her composure and do such a thing. “It was trouble for everyone to make this trip. The imperial doctors have

already tried to force the Crown Prince to vomit. As long as he is carefully taken care of, there will be nothing wrong in the future.”

“Then that is great.” Hua Xi Wan showed an expression of joy. “The Crown Prince has great fortune and de initely can overcome this danger and turn it into good fortune.”

“I’ll accept Xian Wang Fei’s auspicious words.” The Empress forced a smile. When her gaze landed on the Crown Princess, her smile seemed slightly darker.

“Niangniang, two of the grand doctors have fainted.” Zhao Dong trembled as he knelt in front of the Empress and didn’t even dare to raise his head. “What to…”

“What is the use in keeping them if they cannot heal the Crown Prince?” the Empress said expressionlessly. “Let them stay unconscious. If something happens to the Crown Prince, not just them, but even their families will not have good days.”

The Empress’ words were a threat and also a way to vent. Everyone present sympathized with the grand doctors, but no one dared to stand out at this time. They were all mortals, and sympathy was something they would possess only when they were sure they themselves were safe.

Zhao Dong felt that this action was not correct, but the present situation did not allow for him, a servant, to give advice. He silently left. Looking at the grand doctors kneeling outside the room, he sighed. Suddenly, he saw the procession of His Majesty appear at the corner, and he wanted to go into the hall to report to the Empress. However, the Chief Taijian Steward, Ma gonggong, who served the Emperor walked towards him. He could only stop and welcome the other with a smile.

“Hey, Little Dong, what is going on here?” Ma gonggong looked at the old grand doctors who had fallen in the snow and exclaimed. “Aiya, aren’t these people the masters of the grand hospital—how did they end up like this?”

Zhao Dong’s heart skipped a beat when he heard this. Before he could speak, he saw the imperial procession had reached him, and he hurriedly stepped back in order to kneel.

Qilong Emperor looked at the disorganized yard and said in a deep voice, “Have the grand doctors stand up, and the unconscious ones sent home. The others can all stand under the eaves and wait for summons.”

Zhao Dong’s anxiousness increased. He seemed to hear slight discontent from the Emperor’s words. Then he recalled that the survival of the Crown Prince was uncertain, and the Emperor only had this one son. Even if the Emperor was discontent, he would not do anything.

“The Emperor has arrived!”

When the people inside the room heard this announcement, they all stood and then stepped back. Yan Jin Qiu walked next to Hua Xi Wan and put her behind him as they bowed simultaneously towards the shadow clad in yellow.

“Stand up.”

Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow towards Yan Jin Qiu as she stood up. The Emperor did not seem to be in a good mood.

Yan Jin Qiu pinched her ingertip slightly to indicate for her not to worry.

The Emperor walked next to the bed and looked at the waxen-faced Crown Prince. He sighed and then when he turned his head, he saw the Crown Princess with red-rimmed eyes. He said to the Empress, “Zhen had people send back the grand doctors who have fainted outside. The Crown Princess is pregnant. If you think of nothing else, you should still think of accumulating good fortune for the unborn child.”

He was talking to the Empress. If they were talking in private, this would not be anything, but there were many members of the Imperial Family present. The Emperor really did not leave the Empress face in saying these words.

The Empress’ expression changed as though some emotion was about to erupt. However, when her gaze landed on the Crown Prince who was on the bed, the emotion instantly disappeared without a trace. She bowed her head and said, “Qie was too impulsive.”

The Emperor saw her acting like this and did not continue. He turned and looked at the Crown Princess standing at the side to say in a gentle voice, “You are pregnant; there is no need for you to attend the Crown Prince every day. There will be servants in the palace to take care of the Crown Prince in the future. You should go back and rest early.”

The Crown Princess looked at the Empress and then curtsied towards the Emperor. “Erxi bids farewell.”

The Empress said with a smile, “Your Father-Emperor is right. You are pregnant and cannot be careless.”

“Yes.” The Crown Princess curtsied again before taking the hand of a palace attendant and walking outside.

Hua Xi Wan watched out of the corner of her eye as the Crown Princess walked away with a group of palace attendants who carefully circled around her. Then she moved her gaze away silently.

The Empress looked indifferently at the back of the Crown Princess. Turning, she walked next to the bed, and tucked in the blankets for the Crown Prince. She said in a gentle tone, “Emperor, what should ben

gong do if something happens to the Crown Prince? And what about the unborn child of the Crown Princess? What if he doesn’t have a father when he is born?”

The Empress’ words were sad, but Hua Xi Wan could hear that something was not right. If her previous guess was right, then the Crown Prince was the most important to the Empress. If something happened to the Crown Prince, then the babe inside the Crown Princess’ stomach…

“Do not worry, nothing will happen to the Crown Prince.” Qilong Emperor walked next to the bed. After looking at his son for a long time, he sighed. “Do not worry too much. Didn’t the imperial doctors say that nothing will happen if care is taken with the recovery? You should take care of yourself.”

“Even so, when qie thinks of the son suffering so much just after he came out of the prison, qie feels bad inside.” The Empress wiped away the tears at the corner of her eyes. “Emperor, you cannot allow the culprit to stay free.”

The Emperor said with a dark expression, “Do not worry; zhen’s son cannot be schemed against for nothing.”

No matter how disappointed he was in the Crown Prince, this was still his only son. Today, someone could poison the Crown Prince in Zhu Que Palace, then in the future, wouldn’t there be someone who would dare to try to poison him?

Seeing the Emperor and Empress angry, the other people present stopped breathing. If it wasn’t for the uselessness of the Crown Prince, a poisoning of the Crown Prince would be a matter that could shake all of the country. Fortunately, the Crown Prince was not a good person to start with. Even if something happened to him, there would not be any great effects.

They had a feeling that the Emperor and Empress seemed to intend for them to listen to this, but they had to appear as if they did not understand. This was because only people who had knowledge would overthink, so they had to act as though they did not understand.

Hua Xi Wan suddenly felt there was nothing interesting in the most noble couple of the Great Zhao Dynasty. They only seemed harmonious on the surface, and the thing was, they did not teach their son well. This was the heir to the future of the Great Zhao Dynasty. They did not teach their son well, and it wasn’t just one person who would be affected, but the people of this entire country.

What happened between them was none of her business. As an emperor, Qilong Emperor was becoming increasingly wilful and obstinate. Qilong Emperor as he was now could not be considered a good emperor.

Taking away her gaze, Hua Xi Wan looked at the tiles under her feet which shone, and did not want to raise her head.

“You can all leave. There is nothing majorly wrong with the Crown Prince now. You do not have to worry.”

As the Emperor had spoken, everyone lowed out. Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan went to sit for a while with the Empress Dowager before they sat on the carriage to leave the imperial palace.

“What is it?” Yan Jin Qiu detected that Hua Xi Wan’s mood wasn’t quite right. He curled an arm around her waist and said, “You are not feeling well?”

Hua Xi Wan shook her head and said, “It’s nothing. I just felt slightly depressed.”

Seeing the tiredness in her brow, Yan Jin Qiu gathered her into his arms so she could lean more comfortably. “Depressed in mind?”

Hua Xi Wan’s hand stilled where she was pulling his robe. She raised an eyebrow, saying, “I feel depressed all over.”

“Then I will rub your chest for you.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled and moved to rub Hua Xi Wan’s chest. It caused Hua Xi Wan to laugh. In the end, she laughed so much she could only lie helplessly on Yan Jin Qiu’s chest. “No, no more. I can’t breathe.”

Seeing Hua Xi Wan’s blush from laughing so much, Yan Jin Qiu couldn’t resist kissing her cheek and saying in a gentle voice, “Do not worry, I will never allow you to enter such a predicament.”

Knowing what he was talking about, Hua Xi Wan’s mind shifted. She raised her head to look at Yan Jin Qiu, and then a moment later, buried her head in his shoulder. “You have to keep your word.”

Yan Jin Qiu hugged her tightly. For some reason, he thought about how she appeared during the matter of Lu Zhu when she had kicked the fake mountain in fury. In that moment, he had felt she was so beautiful he couldn’t move his gaze away.

His mother had been a gentle woman, and he had seen many women who were warm and gentle. Yet in his eyes, these women were like ancient paintings with thoughts. They might have some style, but they would shatter with a touch.

When he irst saw Hua Xi Wan, he was stunned by her beauty, by her smile, but only just stunned. What really moved his heart was that anger when she was furious. At that time, she was like the only streak of color among black and white which caused his heart to move.

The closer they became, the more he felt that this kind of woman was one who was suited to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with him. She was lazy but not stupid, beautiful and intelligent, emotional but cool.

He did not need a noble lady who was so digni ied that she was a statue, or a woman of the Imperial Family who would adhere to etiquette. She might be slightly lazy, or have her own thoughts, or was not the same in how she acted and what she was really like, but from beginning to now, what he wanted was a living woman, and not a puppet.

Sometimes, the path of a person was too hard to walk, and he needed to ind someone suitable to walk it with him.

He had originally thought that he would never ind a woman who would ful ill his standards, but by heaven’s blessing, he found her. Then he would do all he could to obtain her heart.

In this world, it was too dif icult to ind someone suited to him. How could he bear to miss a chance like this?

In reality, he and she were people of the same type. The heavens had them come together—this meant that the heavens had intended it to be so.

A match made in heaven should not be missed.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Sixty-Eight: Conduct and Appearance

Listening to the sound of words and laughter from Wang Ye and Wang Fei in the carriage, Mu Tong who was sitting at the front narrowed his eyes. He looked at the carriage that was slowly moving towards them. Was that the procession of a junzhu?

A short while later, the carriage in front stopped. A well-dressed servant came forward and bowed. She said, “This old servant greets Wang Ye and Wang Fei on behalf of Junzhu.”

Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu were at an exciting part of their conversation. When they had detected the carriage slowing down, they were curious. When they heard the voice of the old matron, their brows creased slightly. Which junzhu conducted themselves like this? It was as though they were purposefully creating an encounter.

“Wang Ye, Wang Fei, it is the procession of Min Huai Junzhu.” Mu Tong announced in a low voice.

“Min Huai Junzhu?” Hua Xi Wan smiled sarcastically as she glanced at Yan Jin Qiu. Wasn’t that the junzhu with both virtue and talent who had come to the marriage chambers on their wedding night? She reached out with her index inger to trail it down Yan Jin Qiu’s Adam’s apple. “Wang Ye really has a fated connection with Min Huai Junzhu.”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled as he grabbed her hand and bent his head to kiss the back of her hand. “The old woman who sells tea eggs will set up her stall every morning at the corner. I will pass by her everyday—doesn’t that mean I have more of a fated connection with her?”

“Silver-tongued.” Hua Xi Wan lightly bit at his wrist and then she lifted a corner of the curtain, saying lightly, “Min Huai Junzhu, there is no need to be so polite. We are siblings; there is no need for such courtesy.”

The old servant woman did not dare to raise her head and gave a proper bow. Along with the procession of the junzhu, they moved to the side. She only released a breath after the procession of Xian Wang Fu had passed by. Just now, Xian Wang Fei had a smile on her face, but she felt an unspeakable kind of authority. This was probably the presence of a superior.

After the old servant woman returned, Min Huai Junzhu called her into the carriage and asked in a light voice, “He has been very busy lately. Does Xian Wang look well?”

The old servant woman’s body tensed slightly, and then she immediately knelt in front of Min Huai Junzhu. “Junzhu, please forgive. When this old servant went to give the greeting, this one did not see Xian Wang Ye.”

Min Huai Junzhu’s brow creased slightly. This servant woman was her wet nurse. In the past, when she went to see Xian Wang, Xian Wang had

always been very courteous. How could he not even show his face this time?

Detecting that Min Huai Junzhu’s thoughts had gone far away, the servant woman hurriedly explained, “Junzhu, this old servant only saw Xian Wang Fei. She also said that you were siblings, and there was no need for courtesy.”

“Xian Wang Fei?” Min Huai Junzhu sighed inwardly. “I know.” Right now, Xian Wang Fei was even able to speak for Xian Wang. It was possible to see her status in Xian Wang’s heart—what was there for her to hope for?

He had a wife, and she was fated to marry someone else. There was no use in thinking anymore. Right now, she just did not want to end that last bit of wishing.

“Junzhu, do not waste more thought on this matter.” The servant woman had watched her grow up and did not have a child of her own, so she always couldn’t help but think more on behalf of Min Huai Junzhu. “Do not forget what the Empress has said.”

“Mama, I know.” Min Huai Junzhu forced a smile. She thought about the deep love with which Xian Wang treated Xian Wang Fei, and then of her heavily ill mother before she inally made the decision.

“So cold.” When Hua Xi Wan stepped out of the carriage, she shuddered. Fortunately, Yan Jin Qiu had quick eyes and hands in handing her a thick cape which made her feel slightly better. “Thanks.”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled and brushed aside a lock of hair from the side of her face. He smiled as he pulled her into his embrace and strode forward through the main gates of the wang fu. The servants in the surroundings lowered their heads and hurriedly followed.

For noble families and prestigious families, the cold was just slightly more wind and snow, and less vegetables than normal. There also was a decrease in the time spent outside. But for the common people, it was drastically different. Fortunately, the previous two generations of emperors of the Great Zhao Dynasty were not bad rulers. The present Holy One was not one to listen to others, but he had been hard-working and wise in the irst decade after he succeeded the throne. Consequently, it was not a great hardship for the people once winter came. Even if there were some villages that had winter disasters, there would be aid that arrived in time so that the people would not freeze to death.

However, the Kasi people in the north did not have such good days. Whenever the time came, they would send envoys to the Great Zhao Dynasty to borrow food, and then repay in cows and sheep. However, the people of the Zhao Dynasty looked down on the Kasi people because the Kasi and the Zhao Dynasty had fought multiple times in the past. Fortunately, the Zhao’s generals were strong and brave, and could defeat the enemy to the point that they were fearful. Then they would docilely send envoys to the city of Jing to pay respects and borrow food rather than steal it.

But even so, there were some Kasi wanderers at the borders who would attack the border villages in order to take food. In recent years, Qilong Emperor had built a Northern Safety Protection Fort for the stability of the border and to halt the raids of the Kasi wanderers.

Therefore, when people heard that the Kasi had come again without shame to beg from the Great Zhao Dynasty, the speakers in the tea houses started to talk once again about the glory days when the Zhao Dynasty had defeated the Kasi people. The performers’ spit lew as they spoke, and the listeners cheered them on. They even paid half more than they usually did. It could be seen how the people of Jing were patriotic… and gossipy.

Gossip was the right of all people. Therefore, even in the inner compound, Hua Xi Wan would ind a female speaker to narrate the interesting matters of the city or the strange and wondrous rumors. Her days could be considered free and idle.

Therefore, when she heard that the Kasi people had had a con lict with some of the citizens in the tea houses, she said with a creased brow, “What happened to the people afterwards?”

“They were taken away by the Guard Of ice. Supposedly, each of them was given ive strikes, but when they walked out, their complexions were not bad.” The storyteller saw Xian Wang Fei’s expression ease greatly, and instantly understood—this wang fei was probably feeling on behalf of the people of Jing—and couldn’t help but sigh emotionally. The people said that Xian Wang Fei had a devastating beauty, and if she had to give her opinion, she would say that this wang fei didn’t just have

a great beauty—even her heart was good. There were not many wives in the prestigious families who would think of the common people.

“Good, good, it seems that the people of the Guard Of ice understand the signi icance of matters.” Hua Xi Wan shook her head and sighed. She said, “In such cold months, wounds are slow to heal. It would not be good if they were heavily wounded.”

She did not discuss the right and wrongs of this matter, but she was protecting the people of the Great Zhao. So not long after the storyteller left, Xian Wang Fei’s reputation as a kind person gradually spread. Two days later, there were people who saw some servants from the wang fu arrive at the doors of the wounded with medicine. Immediately, some people said that Xian Wang was a kind and generous person, and Xian Wang Fei was also the same. These two, no matter if it was in appearance or in conduct, were a match made in heaven.

Bai Xia worriedly reported to Hua Xi Wan after hearing the rumors outside. She knew that Wang Fei was someone who did not like to concern herself with matters. Otherwise, she would not have used the excuse of being weak of health to stay in the fu and not go out for so many years. Now, many people outside were praising Wang Fei for being kind. At such a dangerous time, this was making trouble for Wang Fei.

But when she reported this, Hua Xi Wan was not surprised at all. She held a hand warmer as she looked at the window and said, “This little bit of reputation is nothing. Aren’t there people outside who say that Sheng Junwang Fei is virtuous and magnanimous, that Sheng Junwang is just and incorruptible?” She did not have the virtuous reputation of

Sheng Junwang Fei, but she could not just have the reputation of beauty. That would not be good for her.

The Zhao Dynasty was not a place that did not tolerate females having a reputation of beauty, but they respected females with talent and virtue. If a family had a talented daughter, or one who was said to be intelligent and virtuous, when they came of age, matchmakers would burst through their doors.

She rejoiced slightly about this. It was fortunate that she had come to the Zhao Dynasty that did not exist in history rather than to the Qing Dynasty of history. The days of women were ones that were dif icult.

When Bai Xia heard this, she stilled slightly and then realized why Wang Fei was acting so. In the past, Lin Ping Junzhu had come to the fu and said that Wang Fei was a calamity. Even though Wang Ye did not care, the mouths of people were a powerful force. If people passed along those rumors, it would not be a good matter.

Now, Wang Fei was concerned about the people of the Zhao Dynasty, and her reputation of being kind was being spread. If people wanted to accuse her of being a calamity, they would have to judge and consider. Otherwise, they would be said to be slandering Wang Fei.

Thinking about this, Bai Xia felt a kind of discontent. The people were really stupid. When the rumor was that Wang Fei had no beauty, these people would frequently speak and mock her. When they learned that Wang Fei was really beautiful, they would say that Wang Fei was a

calamity. In reality, what was wrong with how a person’s appearance was? Their skin, body, and hair came from their parents—how was that a crime?

If an emperor was deposed, they would blame a woman as though it was a woman who was in charge of the world. When she thought of this, Bai Xia who was usually composed couldn’t help but say, “These gossiping people are horrid.”

“There are many horrid people in the world, and also many people who talk about me behind my back. If I became angry because of this, I probably would not be able to do anything else in this life and just be angry all the time.” Hua Xi Wan smiled faintly and said, “My good Bai Xia, help me take a look—which set of palace robes is appropriate for me to attend the New Year’s Eve Banquet?”

“Wang Fei is right.” Bai Xia knew Wang Fei’s personality and did not speak further. She walked next to Hua Xi Wan and looked closely at the variety of robes that the servant girls held out. “The somber color is not suitable for that kind of situation. Wang Fei, you have pale skin; you will look good in any color.”

“Even if Wang Fei was wearing a rag, she would look better than other people.” Hong Ying came in with ginseng tea. “This servant thinks that red fox fur trimmed robe in purple silk is good. It can contrast and make Wang Fei’s skin appear even more beautiful.”

Hua Xi Wan shook her head. “Wang Ye is not an imperial son, and the case of the Crown Prince’s poisoning has not been solved yet. That color is not appropriate.”

She took a look and pointed at a light red robe embroidered with red lowers. “This style, have them change the lower part. This cannot disgrace the nobility of the wang fu, but it cannot seem overly sumptuous.”

The more important the event, the more she had to pay attention to what she wore. If she wanted to wear something light and clean, she could just play in her own home. If she did so at an important occasion, the one she shamed wasn’t just her—it would also cause other people to feel distaste. This was like someone wearing casual wear to attend a wine party. If you were the only person wearing a t-shirt and jeans, that was not called individuality but disrespect.

If this was in the past, she would de initely pick the crimson robe, but after the Crown Prince was poisoned, the two biggest personages in the palace would not be in a good mood. There were already a dozen palace attendants who had been beaten to death. She did not want to draw hatred onto herself at this time.

Someone who did not do so would not die. She was a pink lower that wasn’t even eighteen. She didn’t want to be killed without any real cause.

As for the Crown Prince’s poisoning—what did it have to do with her?

In any case… the position of this Crown Prince wasn’t very stable.

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Chapter Sixty-Nine: Critically Ill

The twenty-eighth year of Qilong was fated to have a shadow cast over it by the poisoning of the Crown Prince. The nobles who were quali ied to attend the banquet were very low-key. They tried their best to have the carriages they rode in and the clothing they wore to not break protocol. However, because the Crown Princess was pregnant and the Emperor was placing great importance on the unborn imperial grandson, they could not be dressed too somberly. If they did so, the Emperor would feel they were bringing bad energies. It was very dif icult for these relatives of the Imperial Family.

The carriages gradually travelled to the imperial palace. They examined each other and smiled conspiratorially. With respectful expressions, they walked towards the great hall of the banquet.

The palace attendants and taijian who were in Chao Yang Hall had tense nerves, afraid they would offend a noble personage. The palace had not been peaceful recently, so every one of them shrunk back and pretended to be a quail. It would not be pro itable if they lost their lives.

Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu walked together. There were taijian who were working hard on sweeping the snow that had accumulated on the paths, but the snow had not stopped at all. The slate stones that they walked on were still slightly wet and slippery. Yan Jin Qiu took the opportunity to hold Hua Xi Wan’s hand as they walked forward, and completely forgot she had her maids.

Not far behind the two of them were Xu Wang Shizi and Shizi Fei. Xu Wang said to the shizi fei, “I really had never expected Zi Ling to have this side to him.” Among the Imperial House members, the relationship he had with his shizi fei was already very good. However, compared to the sweet interactions between Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei, they were lacking.

Shizi Fei had a very good impression of Hua Xi Wan. Hearing this, she said, “If I was a man, and able to marry such a woman, I would protect her as well.”

Xu Wang Shizi did not agree. Xian Wang Fei was beautiful, but in his mind, the woman beside him was the best. “No matter how beautiful she is, it is not as good as one who understands me.”

Shizi Fei blushed slightly and said with a lowered head, “For Xian Wang, Xian Wang Fei is the one who knows him the best.” Her hand was being held in a warm hand. Her face lushed even more, but she did not break free.

Ning Wang was the leader of those who supported the Crown Prince. Because of the Crown Prince’s increasingly unreliable conduct the past half year, he was so panicked he had sores on his lips. He looked at Xu Wang Shizi and Xian Wang ahead of him. Then he thought of his weak eldest son and his prodigal shizi. He instantly felt depressed. They were all young people, but why was the difference so great?

Also, the Crown Prince’s group was becoming even more disorganized in their conduct. If the present Emperor had even one more son, he would immediately jump off the Crown Prince’s boat, and it wouldn’t be like this. It wasn’t just awkward; there was even the possibility he would not be able to maintain the glory he had now.

Presently, the Crown Prince was weak because of being poisoned, and the gender of the child whom the Crown Princess was carrying was unknown. Sheng Junwang had many supporters in Jing. Xu Wang Fu seemed to be observing from the side and was loyal just to the Emperor, but that was on the surface. Xian Wang did not seem to have made any step out of bounds, but the womenfolk in Jing had a high opinion of him. He also had a pretty good reputation among the scholars, and had in-laws that was stronger than the ones of the other young shizi and wang. It would be all right if he did not have the intentions, but if he did, then he would be a strong enemy.

Fortunately, the present dynasty did not have states like the previous dynasty, with the wangs unable to come to Jing without any summons. They only had titles but no land. This ended the possibility that these imperials sons would gather enemies in their own lands, but what was unavoidable was these imperial sons forming alliances in Jing. There was no perfect matter in this world.

If the Crown Prince had been just the tiniest bit better, he would not have turned such a good situation into such a mess. In the previous dynasties, there had been emperors who only had one son. There were crown princes who had been hard-working, and also ones who stayed in the inner palace and would only hold court once every year. However, all of them were able to hold onto the throne because there were no enemies around who were aiming for it.

However, the situation right now was not the same. Sheng Junwang had ambitions, but the previous emperor had been afraid the current emperor would harm his brothers. Consequently, the previous emperor had bestowed golden scrolls to Sheng Wang and Xian Wang, two of the sons whom he had liked the most. He had also had the previous emperor swear in front of many of icials that he would take care of his brothers and their descendants. So right now, while Sheng Junwang and Xian Wang were thorns in the heart of the present emperor, they could not be moved easily.

He really didn’t know what the previous emperor had been thinking at the time. Hadn’t he ever worried that Sheng Wang and Xian Wang would rebel? Fortunately, Sheng Wang and Xian Wang had passed away early. Otherwise, it would be hard to say what the present situation would be like.

As to why these two wang ye were so short-lived—maybe it was a coincidence?

“In the palace, what etiquette is shown by holding hands like this?” Ning Wang Fei’s brow furrowed as she said, “This Xian Wang and Xu Wang Shizi are very inattentive.” She was the second wife of Ning Wang, but she had a good relationship with him. Her son was also the shizi, so she always felt con ident. Ever since she had learned that people frequently compared Sheng Junwang, Xian Wang and Xu Wang Shizi to her own son, she was not happy whenever she saw these people.

“Young people have good relationships; there is nothing wrong with being close.” Ning Wang felt slight regret. If his son could be similar to one of them, he would not have to expend so much effort all the time paving the path for his son. No matter how unfavored he had been when the previous emperor had been alive, when the present emperor ascended the throne, he became the wang ye of whom the Emperor was unwary because of his unfavored status and had survived until now. It was a pity that his son was not very good, so that he had to support the Crown Prince. The hope was that the Crown Prince would take care of his descendants based on his service of supporting the Crown Prince to the throne.

Hearing this, Ning Wang Fei instantly smiled and said, “Wang Ye is right.” She had managed to force away the son of the irst wife and obtain for her own son the title of shizi because she could make Ning Wang happy. Naturally, she would not go against his wishes.

Ning Wang was very satis ied with her perceptiveness. His expression improved, and he put his hands behind his back as he continued to walk.

When Hua Xi Wan walked into the inner hall, she felt the air was much warmer. She took off the fox fur cape she was wearing and handed it to Bai Xia behind her. Holding Yan Jin Qiu’s hand, she sat down at their table. There were tea pastries and dried fruit placed on the table. There were several musicians who were playing happy music. While not everyone had arrived, the entire hall was illed with a happy atmosphere.

Sheng Junwang and his wife were sitting at the table to the right of them, and on their left, it was Ning Wang and his wife. Both sides were not people easy to deal with. Hua Xi Wan was especially careful when she spoke, worried that she would unconsciously fall into the verbal traps of other people.

This was why she had been initially unwilling to marry into the Imperial Family. A minor banquet every three days, a major banquet every ive days—she had to even consider her words before speaking. How much effort this took! Hua Xi Wan propped her cheek in her hand and played with two kumquats. She remained quiet as she listened to Yan Jin Qiu and Yan Bo Yi talk.

“Ben wang cannot compare to Junwang. I only draw and read at home. It will be too dif icult for ben wang to go to the ministries to work.” Yan Jin Qiu raised a wine cup at Yan Bo Yi. “That should be avoided.”

Hua Xi Wan tilted her head to look in the direction of Sheng Junwang. She remembered a few months ago, Yan Jin Qiu was still calling Sheng Junwang Tang brother. Now, it had become junwang. It seemed that the con lict between the two of them was gradually coming into the open.

Hadn’t Qilong Emperor wanted to see this when he had elevated Yan Jin Qiu’s title? Yan Jin Qiu sounded polite in his words, but he seemed to imply that he was a qinwang while the other was just a junwang. With Yan Jin Qiu’s usual astuteness, how could he say such shallow and straightforward words?

Rather than saying he was making things dif icult for Yan Bo Yi, it was better to say that he was doing something that would satisfy Qilong Emperor.

“Xian Wang is too polite. You have outstanding talent—what can you not accomplish? You are just being humble.” Sheng Junwang still looked digni ied as usual. “I just have a little bit of talent to display in front of an expert; how can this compare to Xian Wang’s abilities?”

When he inished saying this, he suddenly saw a golden red kumquat roll down Yan Jin Qiu’s table. It rolled next to his foot before it stopped. The conversation between them immediately stopped.

“Naughty.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled at Hua Xi Wan and peeled a mandarin for her. Then he took the handkerchief Mu Tong handed over to wipe his hand. He said, “I know you do not like kumquats. Taste this.”

Yan Bo Yi looked at the kumquat next to his foot. With slightly lowered eyes, he said, “Wang Ye treats Wang Fei so well.”

“She is someone who will accompany ben wang for a lifetime. If ben wang isn’t good to her, who should ben wang be good to?” Yan Jin Qiu handed his used handkerchief to Mu Tong. Mu Tong bowed as he received it, and then went down to the ground with a bent back to pick up the kumquat at Yan Bo Yi’s foot before he moved to the side soundlessly.

Hua Xi Wan peeled a slice of the mandarin to put in her mouth. Was Yan Jin Qiu trying to disrupt the relationship between Sheng Junwang and Hou shi? She peeked over and only saw Hou shi’s digni ied smile. She could not guess what the other was thinking.

Just as she was preparing to move her gaze, Sheng Junwang suddenly turned his head. Their gazes met. Hua Xi Wan casually smiled politely at him and then buried her head to continue to eat mandarins.

Before entering the palace, she and Yan Jin Qiu had eaten a bowl of noodles. For palace banquets like this, people came for the business, but it would be dif icult to have a good meal. In such cold days, what kind of hot food would they get to eat?

It was just a crowd of upper-level people wearing masks for people who were not in the know.

Sheng Junwang did not respond to this and just smiled. He raised his wine cup and slowly sipped. No matter who looked, he seemed to be a digni ied gentleman. But in Hua Xi Wan’s eyes, no matter how gentlemanly he appeared, he was still low.

As a member of the Imperial Family, it was true that one could not be too emotional. But Yan Bo Yi’s conduct was truly too cold. Even if Hou shi could not get pregnant, she had given so much for him. While she could not ask for him to not have any other women, at least he should have waited for her to recover before they discussed this matter.

An emperor could be cold, but he could not be a person without any benevolence. Otherwise, it was a calamity to the people. Therefore, in her view, Yan Bo Yi was not the best choice to be emperor. If a person like this succeeded the throne, he would be someone who could sacri ice anyone around him for his bene it.

In about half an hour, almost everyone had arrived. Just as everyone was waiting for the imperial couple and the Empress Dowager to arrive, the chief taijian steward Ma gonggong suddenly came to the hall with a grave face and announced Qilong Emperor’s orders.

“The Emperor has spoken, the Crown Prince is critically ill. The national banquet is cancelled.”

The Crown Prince is critically ill?!

The hall immediately turned into a furor. Hadn’t he been getting better?

Strangely, Hua Xi Wan’s gaze landed on Sheng Junwang again. She only saw Sheng Junwang’s face was illed with shock, but the wine cup in his hand was steady and no wine spilled out at all.

She turned back to look at Yan Jin Qiu, showing a terri ied expression that was the same as his.

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Chapter Seventy: Death of the Crown Prince

Even though the national banquet had been cancelled, no one dared to leave Chao Yang Hall without a decree from the Emperor. They could only sit in the hall and engage in verbal con lict with each other as well as use their acting skills. At this time, Hua Xi Wan was not ighting alone because the person beside her also showed a terror as though the sky was falling.

“How can it be like this? May the Heavens bless the Crown Prince to become well, and have good fortune.”

“The Heavens bless; the Crown Prince has good fortune and nothing will happen.”

Even though these people were going overboard in acting their grief, Hua Xi Wan could feel a kind of heaviness from them. It was not that they were worried about the Crown Prince himself but they were worried that, if the Crown Prince really died, it would cause the entire court to destabilize. She looked downwards and saw envoys from subordinate countries sitting together. The envoys were talking among themselves and were clearly shocked at the news.

The Crown Prince was the heir to the country. What was tragic was that Qilong Emperor only had this one son. If the Crown Prince passed away, then the Great Zhao Dynasty would face a situation where there was no heir. When the time came, Qilong Emperor would have to pick a

nephew out of his pile of nephews. This would cause con lict and competition.

At this time, people in the hall were starting to think. If the Crown Prince really passed away, if the babe inside the Crown Princess was not male or could not grow to adulthood, who was the better choice for them to support?

Yi’an Marquis Hua He Zheng and Lu shi listened to the discussion around them and felt anxious inside. The couple couldn’t resist glancing up at Hua Xi Wan who was sitting deeper in the hall. They only saw Hua Xi Wan having a fearful expression, and Yan Jin Qiu with his head lowered as he comforted her.

If the Crown Prince passed away, Xian Wang Fu would be pulled into the con lict. It was not important if Xian Wang had the ambition or not; what was most important was that Xian Wang’s status meant that he could not avoid the con lict.

“Aiya, what to do? Please, nothing should happen to the Crown Prince.” Jing Ping Baroness had a frightened expression. She was truly afraid and there was no acting. The house of Jing Ping Baron had been slowly declining. They had inally managed to ally themselves to the Crown Prince after many years, but now something had happened to the Crown Prince. They really were unfortunate.

“The Emperor has spoken, the Crown Prince is dangerously ill. All people are forbidden to leave the imperial palace and are to pray for the

Crown Prince.”

When the second decree came, some smart people detected the strangeness of the matter. The Emperor’s actions seemed to intend to imprison them all in the palace. Was the sudden occurrence of illness in the Crown Prince deliberate on someone’s part?

Ever since the Crown Prince had been poisoned, Zhu Que Palace had been surrounded by the Imperial Guard. What the Crown Prince ate, wore, and used was only delivered to the Crown Prince after it was inspected by the grand doctors. His food and drink would have poison testers. Yet under such tightly guarded circumstances, the person responsible had managed to get through. The culprit really had great power. No wonder the Emperor was so wary.

If the Crown Prince passed away, then the ones who would bene it most were the imperial nephews in Jing who were the most respected. No wonder the Emperor would act like this.

After this pronouncement came, all the people in Zhao Yang Hall were anxious. Some of the more timid womenfolk changed expression and were even unable to speak properly. No one dared to guarantee that the Emperor would not lose control because of losing his only son, and vent on the innocent people.

There had been an emperor in the previous dynasty who killed a dozen of the Imperial Family members after losing his beloved son, as well as countless palace attendants and doctors. Because of that matter, the

dynasty had gone into decline and was replaced by the Zhao Dynasty a few decades after.

It was not that they were cowardly but that there was the example from the previous dynasty. They did not dare to gamble with their lives.

The coal ires in the hall had died out, and no palace attendants came to replenish the ire. The hall gradually turned cold. Yan Jin Qiu took Hua Xi Wan’s cape from Bai Xia’s hand to put it over her. Then he said in a light voice by her ear, “If you are cold, lean on me. At this time, no one would dare to come here.”

Hua Xi Wan gripped the collar of the fox fur cape and silently leaned towards Yan Jin Qiu. She was not especially sensitive about politics, but from the expressions of the people present, she knew that this matter was not simple, and she did not speak.

The hall gradually quieted as time lowed by. When the imperial guards came in full armor to surround the entire hall, people did not need to act as their expressions turned ugly.

Suddenly, a burst of white light lashed outside the hall. People looked in shock outside and heard a roar of thunder. The thunder seemed to explode in their minds, and many people started to tremble.

“Thunder in the middle of winter—this is not a good omen.”

It was unknown who suddenly said this. The entire hall was silent.

It was rare for thunder to sound during the winter months, much less when it was still snowing. A sudden clap of thunder and lightning like this really was an omen for a calamily.

Yan Jin Qiu gripped Hua Xi Wan’s hand and said in an almost imperceptible tone by her ear, “Do not be afraid.” He glanced at the expressionless faces of the Imperial Guard outside. His brow creased slightly. He found that Hua Xi Wan’s hand was cold and took off his own cape to put on Hua Xi Wan.

“You…” Hua Xi Wan glanced at Yan Jin Qiu’s clothing that was not thick and reached to take off this dark-colored cape. However, Yan Jin Qiu stopped her.

“Don’t move. You once almost froze when you were young; you cannot get cold again,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a grave expression. “Listen to me.”

Hua Xi Wan’s hand stilled and then she said, “This cape is very large. We can each have half.” Then she untied the strings to the cape and spread the large cape over their backs.

The other people saw this and followed suit. Even though some couples were respectful strangers in their daily lives, they did not care at this

time.

At this moment, there was another burst of lightning and then thunder.

“Dong.” The sound of the mourning bell sounded, and then it sounded ive more times.

Death of the emperor, nine strikes; death of the empress, seven strikes; death of the heir, six strikes.

“The Crown Prince is dead.”

The people in the hall knelt down dazedly amid the clangs of the mourning bell, as though they were unable to react. Just a few days ago, the Crown Prince had rumors about being lusty going around, and now he died like this.

After the mourning bells stopped, sobs resounded in the hall. There were many people present who were elders of the Crown Prince, but the Crown Prince was the heir to the country. As a result, his status surpassed conventions of seniority. No matter who the person was, they had to cry audibly.

Even if they could not cry, they had to howl to express their sadness.

Hua Xi Wan used her handkerchief to rub the corners of her eyes. Moments later, she started crying with red eyes.

In her past life, she had great skill in crying in front of the camera. Even when she was surrounded by people during ilming, she could cry on command—much less compete in crying now with a group of people.

Not even an hour later, her handkerchief was soaked. Beside her, Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes and nose were red. Even though he was not wailing like the other people, anyone who saw him would feel that he was truly in mourning, and not acting.

When Qilong Emperor appeared, Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan were crying grievously and formed a contrast to the Imperial Family members in the surroundings who were just wailing.

The Qilong Emperor who appeared seemed to have aged a few years. He stumbled in his steps as his gaze swept across the people kneeling. His gaze lingered on Yan Jin Qiu and Yan Bo Yi. When he saw Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan leaning against each other, he inally stopped his gaze on Yan Bo Yi.

“Zhen has lost the only son. Everyone… kneel in farewell.” Qilong Emperor’s expression changed and he hid the murderousness in his eyes.

When the words came out, the people released a breath. They inally could step outside the palace gates in peace.

Because they had knelt for too long, Hua Xi Wan felt her knees were numb and cold when she was rising. She had almost lost feeling in them. If it wasn’t for Yan Jin Qiu who had quick eyes and hands, and came to hold her waist, she would have sat back down on the ground.

When he grabbed onto Hua Xi Wan, Yan Jin Qiu also stumbled and seemed to appear as a weakling. However, everyone was immersed in their own emotions, and there were not many who noticed this scene.

But Qilong Emperor saw the actions of the husband and wife. He lowered his eye slightly and then turned his gaze onto Yan Bo Yi.

At this time, Yan Bo Yi was standing silently with his hands behind his back. The rims of his eyes were slightly red but they did not reduce his bearing.

Qilong Emperor did not keep anyone. The people walked silently out of Chao Yang Hall. They looked with dazed expressions as the bright red lanterns on the corridors were switched with white lanterns.

The Crown Prince was dead—what would Jing become in the future?

There was a layer of snow on the slate path. Because no palace attendants had come to sweep, everyone had a dif icult time walking.

When Hua Xi Wan passed by Hua He Zheng and Lu shi, she only gave them a discreet glance and did not say a thing.

Coming out though the hall gates, Yan Jin Qiu put both of their capes on Hua Xi Wan and caused her walking posture to seem unusually clumsy. Her gold-embroidered pearl-encrusted palace slippers caused the snow to squeak as she walked. Yan Jin Qiu saw her dif iculty in walking and did not care about the people around them. He curled an arm around her waist so she could walk more easily.

Min Huai Junzhu was holding the hand of a servant girl as she walked forward unsteadily. Just after a short distance, she was panting. She gazed at Xian Wang Fei who was being half-carried by Xian Wang, and stopped in her stride.

Now that the Crown Prince was dead, the Empress would be in great mourning and would not have the attention to take care of her matters. What should she do in the future?

She looked around dazedly and only saw the cold palace corridors and the members of the Imperial Family and of prestigious families who were walking towards the exit.

“Junzhu?” Her servant girl saw that her expression was not quite right and asked worriedly, “What is it?”

“It’s nothing.” Min Huai Junzhu moved her gaze away. “Let’s go.”

From Chao Yang Hall to the palace gates, Hua Xi Wan found that almost everything that was celebratory had been put away. She couldn’t see anything celebratory even on the clothing of the palace attendants and the taijian.

When they reached the gates of the palace, no one exchanged pleasantries. They hurriedly got on their own carriages and left.

When Hua Xi Wan stepped onto the stool to enter the carriage, she turned back and saw her parents nearby. After nodding slightly towards them, she bent to enter the carriage.

Hua He Zheng looked at the carriage of Xian Wang Fu moving away. He sighed slightly and said to Lu shi, “Let’s go as well.”

Lu shi nodded and put her slightly cool hand in Hua He Zheng’s hand.

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Chapter Seventy-One: Assassin?

After returning to the wang fu, Hua Xi Wan had a comfortable hot water bath before burrowing into her warm blankets. The wang fu’s servants put away every object that was bright, and put out somber-colored objects before the night was over

When Hua Xi Wan woke up in Yan Jin Qiu’s arms in the morning, the entire wang fu had changed. It was like a beautiful woman who took off her makeup. She was still beautiful but not as stunning as she usually was.

Yan Jin Qiu watched as Hua Xi Wan put on a snowy white robe with blue adornments. She even changed her usually preferred coral and precious stone jewelry to jade and pearls. He said, “This month will inconvenience you.”

The time when the Crown Prince died was not a good one. This was the interchange between the old and the new year, and winter thunder had sounded without any cause. When the news reached the common people, it would cause panic among them.

In the hearts of the people, this Crown Prince was probably a calamity. Even in death, he could not pick a good day, and had to bring misfortune to such a joyous day. Wasn’t this purposefully causing everyone to not have a good year?

Xian Wang Fu was peaceful, but that did not mean that it was so smooth in the other fu. For example, Ning Wang, Baron Jing Ping, Min Huai Junzhu and the others had a sleepless night after they returned home. Today, they had to go into the palace to mourn for the Crown Prince. It was a double test of their endurance and mind.

There were of icials who put forth the suggestion that because the Crown Prince was of a younger generation, his uncles should not have to mourn for him. The result was that the Emperor had him beaten to death in a fury and said to the court, “The Crown Prince may have been younger, but he was the heir to the throne. He is not the same as other imperial sons. Other than the Empress Dowager and his birth mother, everyone has to mourn for him.”

Maybe it was because he had killed one of the of icials, and the Emperor only had this one son no matter how terrible he was—they would do as the Emperor said. In any case, the one who would lose good fortune would be the Crown Prince, not them.

The of icials and noble ladies in Jing who were of second rank and above went into the imperial palace to mourn for the Crown Prince. Requiems for the Crown Prince came to Jing on express horses from all parts of the country. Just as everyone thought the Emperor would inally settle down, Qilong Emperor threw out another bomb.

The Emperor wanted to elevate the Crown Prince to Pingxiao Emperor. This caused a ruckus in court. In history, they had seen emperors title their fathers as emperor, but where was the rationale in having a son elevated to being an emperor while his father was still alive?

This was connected to the traditions of the entire dynasty, and the whole court opposed this. Many of icials knelt down at the doors to the palace and would not rise in a request for the Emperor to take back his order. Qilong Emperor refused to do so, and thus he entered a faceoff with these court of icials.

The paternal family of the Empress, the Fang Clan, and the people who were formerly in the Crown Prince’s camp ran around trying to gather support. If the Crown Prince was titled as emperor, then if the child inside the Crown Princess was male, the Crown Prince would not be heirless.

This was also Qilong Emperor’s intention. He did not want the throne to land in the hands of other people after he died, so what he had to do now was construct a path for the child inside the Crown Princess’ belly.

The neutral factions and the factions supporting the Crown Prince continued mourning for six days for the Crown Prince, and Qilong Emperor started a long ight against the opposing faction. Hua Xi Wan heard how a senior of icial who had seen two generations of emperors committed suicide against the Eastern Gates. The blood had splattered over the ground and the scene had been extremely bloody.

Returning to the wang fu, she asked hesitantly, “This senior of icial who committed suicide is not afraid that the Emperor will extract vengeance against his family and descendants?”

“He does not have any children, and he was occupied with writing books in the recent years,” Yan Jin Qiu said dryly. “I heard that this of icial had once praised in public Sheng Junwang’s conduct.”

Hua Xi Wan rubbed her chin and asked curiously, “You mean that it was Sheng Junwang who instigated this?”

Yan Jin Qiu bent down to press foreheads with her. “What do you think?”

Pushing with her index inger to move his forehead away, Hua Xi Wan rubbed her neck. She had not rested well after going into Zhu Que Palace to mourn. “It’s ine if you don’t say. I’m too lazy to think.”

“So lazy, what will you do in the future?” Yan Jin Qiu smiled helplessly and sat down next to her. “In these one hundred days, I cannot invite performance troupes or storytellers. I have already had the servants go search for some interesting books to help you while away the time. Just endure these next days.”

“This is an accident that cannot be resisted; it is not your fault. I do not feel slighted.” Hua Xi Wan drank a sip of the tea. “Now that the outside is like this, and the people in Jing are anxious, it is good to be relatively low-key.”

Ever since the Crown Prince had gotten into trouble, Princess Rui He who usually looked at people with her chin high had become low-key,

much less the members of the Imperial Family like them who seemed to be noble but whom the Emperor was guarding against. She would be satis ied if her paternal family was not pulled into this matter.

“Do not worry, this matter will pass.” Yan Jin Qiu knew what she was worried about and comforted, “Father-in-law is a smart person and will not meddle in this matter. Also, the Hua Clan is a prestigious family that has endured for hundreds of years; people will not easily go to offend them. Do not worry too much.”

Hua Xi Wan forced a smile. “I know that what you say is reasonable, but that is the family that raised me for more than a decade. I do not want my paternal family to become more noble; I just want my relatives to be safe.”

Yan Jin Qiu lightly gathered her into his embrace. “I know.”

The two people’s words both contained other meanings. Fortunately, the two had reached an implicit agreement and eased each other’s fundamental worries.

Because of the chaos at court, even if Yan Jin Qiu was a wang ye who was idle, he also became busy. Hua Xi Wan decided to close the gates of the wang fu and refuse all visits. Hearing that the Hua Family had not participated in the matter, she sighed in relief.

Their Hua Family was a normal prestigious family. They had a bit of a good reputation, but they never pursued obtaining a shining reputation that would endure for hundreds of years. As for persuading the Emperor through suicide—the Hua Family would never do such a thing. They would choose a more reliable path and pursue the safest outcome.

The sky which had been cloudy with snow inally cleared after a few days. Hua Xi Wan lay on the chaise and saw the bright sun, so she inally decided to take a walk outside.

The winter sun fell glitteringly over her body. Even though it was not especially warm, it was slightly warm. After Hua Xi Wan made a round inside the inner compound, and was preparing to return to her rooms, she heard a ruckus sound in the direction of the study. Her brow creased. “What is happening in the study?”

If Yan Jin Qiu was in the fu, she would not bother with attending to this matter. But now, there were sounds in the study, and as the wang fei, she had to take charge.

“Wang Fei.” The guard at the study saw Hua Xi Wan come with servants and had a con licted expression. But with such loud noise, he could not conceal it even if he wanted to.

“What is going on inside?” Hua Xi Wan stood next to the door and saw several brawny guards surrounding two people. Her brow arched and she said, “Move aside.”

The guard did not dare to stop her and silently moved a step back. Hua Xi Wan walked into the yard. When she saw the scene inside clearly, her brow furrowed further. The person surrounded by the guards was a nondescript male who was dressed in the clothing of the manservants of the fu. The color of the clothes was stained brown, and he seemed very disheveled. He had a knife in his hand and was holding it against the neck of another person.

Hua Xi Wan recognized the person being held as hostage. He was a taijian of Yan Jin Qiu. However, because there was Mu Tong around, this taijian was not one whom Yan Jin Qiu used frequently.

“Wang Fei, this person is a spy who was captured in the fu a few days ago. He actually managed to escape today.” The guard walked next to Hua Xi Wan and said, “What do you think…”

Hua Xi Wan did not ask where this person had been held before. She carefully examined the spy and the hostage surrounded by the guards, silence all around.

“Wang Fei, this one is innocent. Wang Ye has set up a secret jail and has tortured this one many times. There are also other people being held under the study. It is hell. Please have mercy and release the innocent people.” The spy saw that he could not escape and decided to go all in when he saw the wang fei who was beloved by the wang ye appear. He tried to cause a split between the couple. “The person who lies beside you is not a gentleman—he is a bloodthirsty demon. Do not be fooled by him!”

Hua Xi Wan tilted her head and said to the guard, “Close the gates.” After the gates to the yard were closed, she turned back to look at her servant girls who had followed her in. She lowered her face slightly. “Other than my personal servant girls, imprison everyone else. This will be resolved when Wang Ye returns.”

No matter how truthful the spy’s words were, what he had said could not spread. Otherwise, all of Xian Wang Fu would be over. Therefore, she had to make such a choice.

Hearing this, the guard sighed in relief. What he had been most afraid of was that the wang fei would believe the spy’s words and not care about any other matter. Then it would really be troublesome for Xian Wang Fu.

“What, you do not believe me?” The spy had a crazed expression. He looked at the people around him. “How about I tell this beautiful wang fei what that gentlemanly wang ye does?”

“Why should ben wang fei listen to your waste of words?” Hua Xi Wan smiled coldly, “What I want to know is the relationship between you and this taijian you are holding hostage. Otherwise, how could you coincidentally escape and then take him as hostage?”

Hua Xi Wan’s eyes swept harshly across the taijian who was trembling and snorted. “You act very afraid, but you have been cooperating with the spy all this time. After being held by him for so long, there isn’t any

mark on your neck. Are all kidnappers and hostages such good friends?”

After she said this, Hua Xi Wan turned to the guard and said, “You shall take care of this matter. Keep your mouth shut.”

Bai Xia and Hong Ying went forward to open the gates to the yard and then followed in exiting after Hua Xi Wan. The other junior servants girls were also locked up inside.

After walking a few paces, Hua Xi Wan heard screams coming from inside the yard. Hua Xi Wan increased her speed to return to her yard. Then she smashed a few objects on her shelves, lipped the table, and messed up the decorations in the room. Then she steeled herself and cut a relatively deep wound on her hand. She said word by word, “Bai Xia, there is an assassin.”

Many people had heard the ruckus just now. The situation in Jing was so tense and many people were watching Xian Wang Fu. Since it had occurred, it would be better to add to the chaos.

“Someone come, catch the assassin! Wang Fei is wounded!” Bai Xia prepared herself and cut a wound on her leg. Blood immediately started to low and then she splattered the blood on her own body and on Hong Ying. “Catch the assassin!”

Hong Ying hit her head on the corner of the table and then messed up her hair and clothing. She covered Hua Xi Wan who was sitting on the ground with her body and screamed in a high tone, “Assassin!”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

狀元 zhuangyuan, 榜眼 bangyan, 探花 tanhua: literally “top thesis

author,” “eyes positioned alongside” and “ lower snatcher”; they are respectively the graduate ranked irst, second, and third overall in the triennial imperial examination

Chapter Seventy-Two: Panic

Because Qilong Emperor was not in a good mood recently, he only went through the motions at the court session held every ifth day. He had a ight over elevating the Crown Prince as emperor posthumously, and there was no conclusion reached at the end of the session.

After Yan Jin Qiu came out of the palace, he was preparing to return to the wang fu when he and the other members of the imperial palace were surrounded by the people who were opposed to elevating the Crown Prince. He listened to the examples they stated about the traditions passed down by his ancestors, but while he had a smile on his face which hid his true thoughts, no one would feel dislike when they saw him listening in concentration.

The members of the Imperial Family were slightly depressed. They were originally idle members and did not like to participate in these matters. But now they were surrounded by these people. They were unable to leave, but if they didn’t, they would offend the Emperor. This was an undeserved calamity.

After being hindered at the palace gates for an hour, just as everyone was about to leave, a blade-carrying guard dressed in silver-patterned black robes ran over with a panicked expression. Everyone frowned inwardly. These were robes that only the captain of a qinwang’s guard could wear. Which family had something happen?

“Wang Ye, Wang Fei was the target of an assassin in the wang fu. The assassin has been captured.”

The courteous smile on Yan Jin Qiu’s face immediately disappeared completely. He said harshly, “How is Wang Fei?”

“Because her two maids protected her with their lives, and the guards arrived in time, Wang Fei is temporarily safe. The taijian who led the way for the assassin and the assassin have been killed.”

“Return to the fu immediately.” Yan Jin Qiu could not spare the attention to exchange courtesies with the people around him. Without saying even a word of farewell, he hurriedly got onto the carriage and had the driver return to the fu.

However, no one was offended by his lack of politeness. No one in Jing was ignorant about how much Xian Wang loved Xian Wang Fei. If something really happened to Xian Wang Fei, Xian Wang would really be impacted.

But in broad daylight, someone had sneaked into a wang fu for an assassination, and there had been a taijian who led the way—this was outrageous. If it wasn’t that Xian Wang had been stopped at the palace gates for an hour, then was the one to be assassinated Xian Wang?

It seemed that this assassin’s primary target was not Xian Wang Fei but Xian Wang. However, Xian Wang was a gentleman and never tried to promote himself. Who would be so ruthless as to kill Xian Wang?

They were all people in politics, and in this little span of time, all of them had a list of possible culprits in their minds. On this ranking, Sheng Junwang was the zhuangyuan, the Empress’ paternal family, the Fang clan, was the bangyan, and the present ruler… the tanhua.

After something like this occurred, the of icials did not keep the members of the Imperial Family any longer. If something happened in the homes of these imperial members, then the of icials would be pulled in as well.

Not an hour later, the news that Xian Wang Fei had been the subject of an assassination attempt spread through half of Jing. When Qilong Emperor heard of this, he was so furious he smashed one of his most preferred tea sets. He was very suspicious that the person who had acted at Xian Wang Fu and the person who had poisoned the Crown Prince were possibly comrades-in-arms. However, he did not have the evidence. While he had possible candidates, he could not act.

Every time this occurred, he would be especially angry at the previous emperor. The other hadn’t just been wary of him—he had bestowed metal scrolls to the other two sons. Wasn’t that telling the people of the world that the previous emperor had been worried that he, the present emperor, would act against his brothers? Ma gonggong looked at the porcelain pieces on the ground and didn’t move. It was as though he did not know that someone was having a temper tantrum right beside him.

Outside the palace, Yan Jin Qiu hurried back to the wang fu. When he stepped through the gates of the wang fu, he did not look at the guards who were kneeling behind the gates, and strode towards the main yard. When he walked into the yard, he saw that the servants were moving busily but they were not in chaos. He raised the beaded curtain and walked into the inner rooms. He saw Hua Xi Wan lying on the bed, the best external injury doctor taking her pulse. The furnishings in the room showed signs of having moved, and there was a faint tang of blood.

Waving his hand to release the servants of the room from bowing, he lengthened his stride to walk next to the bed. Looking at Hua Xi Wan’s bloodless face, he said, “Grand doctor, how is Wang Fei?”

“Wang Ye, do not worry. Wang Fei’s wound is deep, but fortunately, it did not harm any of the major vessels. However, it is cold now, and the speed of healing will be relatively slow.” The grand doctor took his hand away and then started to write out a prescription. As he wrote, he said, “This time, there is no harm, but it was very dangerous. If the wound was just a bit more to the side, even before this subject could arrive, Wang Fei would have died from blood loss. This subject has written three prescriptions: one for wound recovery, the second for blood replenishment, and the last to be applied topically. Wang Ye, this subject hopes you will order the servants of your fu to take the utmost care.”

Zi Shan bit her lower lip and asked in a small voice, “This servant has overstepped but asks the grand doctor, will there be a scar left on Wang Fei’s arm?”

“It is impossible to not leave a mark behind.” The grand doctor knew that for these noblewomen, a scar would not be beautiful, but this wound was very deep and it was winter. “During the period of healing, eat less spicy food. After it heals, wash it using cow milk, pearl powder, and a restorative salve. It will have some effect.”

“Many thanks, Grand Doctor.” Zi Shan curtsied gratefully. She recalled Hong Ying and Bai Xia who had been moved by the younger servant girls to a room, and that a doctor had been called. Inside, she sighed in relief. No matter what, it was fortunate that all three of them were ine.

After the grand doctor left, Yan Jin Qiu sat for the majority of an hour by the bedside. Seeing Hua Xi Wan still asleep, he asked, “Why has Wang Fei not awakened yet?”

“Wang Ye, Wang Fei’s wound is deep. The grand doctor used opium in order to sew the wound closed. The grand doctor said that the wang fei would sleep for at least four hours before waking up,” Zi Shan carefully replied.

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu did not press any further. He didn’t dare to touch that arm wrapped in bandages. He carefully held Hua Xi Wan’s

unharmed hand. After sitting quietly for a while, he stood and said, “Serve Wang Fei well.”

“Farewell to Wang Ye.” Even though Wang Ye had not said anything, Zi Shan felt there was a presence of fury around Wang Ye. This unspeakable anger caused her to become even more careful.

Yan Jin Qiu sat in the study and looked at the captain of his guard who was in front of him. He said expressionlessly, “Speak, what happened?”

The captain narrated the events, the origins of the matter, the appearance of Wang Fei, Wang Fei’s response and the last result.

“Wang Fei said that only this can perfectly disguise the matter, and… lower the Emperor’s wariness of you.” The captain hadn’t thought that Wang Fei and her two servant girls could achieve such a level. When he had charged into the inner compound with the guards, if he didn’t know that there were no assassins in the fu at the moment, he probably couldn’t have helped but believe that there were really assassins in the fu based on that scene.

It wasn’t just the guards in the fu; the servants of the fu also saw Wang Fei sitting on the ground covered in blood. The two servant girls were also wounded. Even though they were in an extremely terri ied state, they did not forget to shield Wang Fei behind them. The room which had been so exquisite and beautiful was a mess, and it could be seen how dangerous the situation had been at the moment.

Then they quickly “caught” the assassin disguised as a manservant and the taijian from behind the fake mountain next to the inner yard. This caused everyone in the fu to believe that Wang Fei had been the subject of an assassination attempt.

Originally, the escape of that spy had been detrimental to him, but after “Wang Fei was the target of an assassination,” they had come out of their reactive state because Xian Wang Fu was a victim just like the Crown Prince, and not the culprit.

Yan Jin Qiu sat on the chair. After a long silence, he said, “Go down, and every one of you go take ten strikes with the staff before cleaning up the matters of the fu. Ben wang is going to watch over Wang Fei.”

“Yes.” The guard released a breath on the inside. It was fortunate that Wang Fei had been determined and decisive to not do anything detrimental to the fu. Otherwise, it would be very troublesome to him.

“Captain, nothing happened?” The guards kneeling outside the study saw Wang Ye leave and the head guard also walk out. They asked carefully, “Did Wang Ye say anything?”

“Wang Ye is worried about Wang Fei’s wounds right now. He only said a punishment of ten strikes for each of us. What else can he say?” The captain frowned. “Don’t waste words—go receive your punishments.”

The hearts of the guards landed. Ten strikes with the staff was not a harsh punishment. Having let the spy escape this time, not just ten strikes, they would deserve even twenty.

“Wang Fei and her two servant girls are really the best among women. They are this—” a guard raised a thumb “—as expected of a granddaughter of a martial family. Not many can compare to her.”

The captain glanced at him coldly and the person hurriedly closed his mouth. He inally remembered that no matter how valiant Wang Fei was, she was still the wang fei and not someone a guard like him could talk about.

However… Wang Fei really was unspeakably beautiful. No wonder Wang Ye treated her so well. If he was able to marry someone this beautiful, not just abstaining from taking concubines, he would be willing to have ten years taken off his lifespan.

Yan Jin Qiu would glance a few times at the bed after lipping a page, and then glance and then lip a page. In reality, he did not know what he was reading. When he heard that Hua Xi Wan had been targeted by an assassin, he knew that the terror he felt was not an act, but his true emotion.

He had thought that Hua Xi Wan was slightly ierce, slightly lazy and spoiled, but he never thought that she had such a daring side. He knew that she had done this for him, for Xian Wang Fu.

This woman might not be gentle enough, might not be well-read enough, she was even lazy and did not like to take charge, but she had done this for him—what did he have to be dissatis ied with?

Maybe she did not have him in her heart, but that did not mean that it could erase the things she had done for him.

Staying with her made him feel even better than torturing that spy. He was a person who paid attention to his own feelings. So if he was good to her, and better to her, what was wrong about that?

He knew that there were people in Jing who said he liked beauty, and those who said he was afraid of his wife, but so what? A truly strong person did not care what other people did. He understood what he wanted.

The woman on the bed was his. From body to heart, everything could only be his.

He bent down and gave a light kiss on the corner of Hua Xi Wan’s lips. The smile on his face was endlessly gentle.

Her lips were even more fragrant than the blood of his enemies.

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Chapter Seventy-Three: Mentality

The attempted assassination of Hua Xi Wan caused huge waves to go through Jing. Yi’an Marquis Fu sent several groups of people to deliver objects. Even though the Hua Family knew that Xian Wang Fu did not lack in anything, this did not stop their actions.

Even Yao shi of Third Master Hua’s family who was a bit of a cheapskate sent some replenishing items. According to her, no matter how much of an eyesore she found Hua Xi Wan, she did not want the other to die needlessly. At most, Yao shi just wanted to see her in an unfortunate situation or to not live as well as her own daughter. However, she did not want the other to lose her life.

The Hua Family sent things to the wang fu, and the other members of the Imperial Family also did the same. Prestigious families that could ind a connection to Xian Wang Fu or that were close to the Hua Family also mimicked those people and sent things over. No matter how insincere they were, at least they expressed the regret they felt about the attempted assassination of Hua Xi Wan.

After this matter was publicized, the atmosphere of Jing became even tenser. It was not that these people were afraid they would also be assassinated, but they guessed the even more terrifying truth— someone wanted to get rid of Xian Wang.

Everyone knew that Xian Wang had great love for Xian Wang Fei. If he did not have any matters, he never wandered outside the wang fu, and

if he had free time, he liked to return to the fu to keep his wang fei company. The day when someone attempted to assassinate Xian Wang Fei, he had been delayed by the of icials at the palace gates. The assassin had clearly not predicted that Xian Wang who usually returned at a regular time would not appear on that day, and then decided to act against Xian Wang Fei instead to affect Xian Wang’s emotions. This would cause him to lose his mind and intelligence when he competed for the throne.

It was the greatest fortune that Xian Wang Fei had two servant girls who protected her with their lives, and that the guard of Xian Wang Fu had been patrolling nearby. If any of these circumstances were lacking, Xian Wang Fei would have undoubtedly died.

No one guessed that this matter had been one which Xian Wang Fei had directed and acted in herself. This was because many people in the wang fu had heard the ruckus that came from the main yard, and the screams. The spies whom certain people had inserted into the fu had heard them. Also, Xian Wang Fei had been wounded in the arm. The rumor was that it was a serious wound and it would leave behind a scar.

Xian Wang Fei was such a beautiful and delicate woman. Could she cut such an ugly scar on her own arm? Also, Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei were not people who liked to pursue power. What was the aim if they were faking this?

They disliked having too much blood in their bodies, and decided to cut open a wound to play?

Even more people leaned towards believing that someone wanted to attack Xian Wang while the Emperor was not in a good mood in order to eliminate this hidden opponent.

If it was related to the matter of succession, then it would never be a simple matter. When they thought of the presently chaotic state of affairs, they couldn’t help but sigh. The next while in Jing would probably not be peaceful.

Ever since the effects of the laudanum had passed, Hua Xi Wan experienced the feeling of pain. She didn’t even dare to move her arm freely, and she had to take care with what she consumed. This was what was most painful to her.

The two most important things in life were eating and sleeping, and now she could not do either of them well. When she slept at night, she did not dare to lip over, and she could only eat some dishes that were bene icial for wound recovery. It was dif icult to bear.

In the last two days, Yan Jin Qiu had requested a vacation and spent almost the entire time around Hua Xi Wan. He told her interesting news, or humorous things about certain of icials. This was all to divert her attention so that she would be less sensitive to the pain

This was something the grand doctors had said to him. It seemed farfetched, but when he saw Hua Xi Wan absorbed while listening to the interesting news of the of icials of Jing, he, a wang ye who was never interested in the gossip of other families, had servants search for

humorous and interesting news. He tried to have Hua Xi Wan maintain her interest.

“What do you think this Baron Jing Ping is thinking?” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “He raised the son of his irst wife to be timid and without abilities, and the son of his second wife to be arrogant and domineering. I heard that the other is also a wastrel.”

“He only made a gamble and lost.” Yan Jin Qiu sighed and said, “Otherwise, he would not have immediately married his second wife just after she came out of her irst marriage, right after his irst wife died.”

“Many men are greedy for beauty. Baron Jing Ping will not be the irst man to do this, and will not be the last.”

Emperor Jing of the Han was so powerful that he could have Empress Dowager Wang, who had married previously and had a child, come into the palace, and then had Empress Dowager Wang’s son by him become the crown prince in the end. Then this son had succeeded the throne and became the famed Emperor Wu of Han.

Baron Jing Ping was only one of the lower-ranked barons, and it was nothing for him to marry a childless woman who had been previously married. However, this should have been based on the fact that he had not committed adultery with the second wife while the irst wife was alive, and then hurriedly married the second wife just after the irst

wife died. In that case, she would not have such a lack of positive feelings about this Baron Jing Ping.

“I’m not the same as other men,” Yan Jin Qiu said as he bent down near her ear. “If I, Yan Jin Qiu, ind a woman, then it is for the whole lifetime.”

Believing the sweet talk of men was akin to making oneself stupid. However, she would not be so stupid as to tear apart his sweet talk in front of him. She would slowly listen as though it was something interesting, and it was her own business whether she believed it or not.

However, Yan Jin Qiu seemed to be only speaking this for her to hear, and he did not try to force her to believe it. He looked worriedly at her arm and his brow creased slightly. “The Empress Dowager and the Empress have bestowed down some things today. You are recuperating, so I did not have you get up to receive the decree.”

In reality, both of them knew it wasn’t that Hua Xi Wan was so heavily wounded that she could not get out of bed. It was because she was unwilling as the warm blankets were too comfortable.

Because of her wound, Yan Jin Qiu had enabled her to become even more lazy. Even when eating, she only had to open her mouth and wait for people to place food in it. Most of the time, that person was Yan Jin Qiu.

“The Empress also sent some things?” Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow in slight shock. The Crown Prince had just died and the Empress had recovered so quickly?

“En, do you need to see the list? I will have someone bring it.” Yan Jin Qiu peeled a whole orange and handed a slice to her.

She tilted her head to bite into the orange slice. After eating it, she shook her head and said, “No need, I’m too lazy to look.”

The things that came from the palace, from the pearls and jade artefacts to the little playthings, all had auspicious names like Phoenixes Flying Double Flower Brocade, Hundred Layer Dress, or else it was the green jade hairpins that had good fortune clouds. It really tested one’s eyes and memory when the names were called out.

“Don’t look if you do not want to.” Yan Jin Qiu inished feeding her half of the orange and did not let Hua Xi Wan eat any more. He put down the other half and reached out with a hand to caress the soft hair loose on her back. “I have something today that I need to go out for. Remember to have your medicine at the set time.”

“All right.” Hua Xi Wan knew that in the eyes of other people, it was love if Yan Jin Qiu kept her company in the wang fu for two to three days, but if he stayed even longer, it would not be appropriate.

“Then rest well. Do not make me worry.”

After Yan Jin Qiu left, Hua Xi Wan lay on the bed and did not feel any drowsiness. She had Cheng Qiu hand her a book to read to waste the time.

Not long after Yan Jin Qiu came out of the wang fu on his horse, he encountered Yan Bo Yi who was also riding. Both were riding on tall horses and gave bows of equals to each other from atop their horses.

“How is Dimei’s wound?” Yan Bo Yi took out the horsewhip that was hanging from his waist and played with it. “Dimei is of a fragile constitution, and the culprit is evil to have her suffer such hardship.”

“That is true.” Yan Jin Qiu had a natural smile. “Tang Xiong, thanks for the concern. This younger brother will de initely manage the fu well, and not have something like this happen again.”

The two men locked gazes, one with an expressionless face, and one with a face covered in smiles but without any warmth in his eyes.

The people leading the horses for the two men shook simultaneously and then buried their heads.

After returning to the wang fu, Yan Jin Qiu did not immediately return to the main yard. He went to the study instead and then passed through the hidden tunnel. His feet stepped on the ground that was covered in

water all year around. When his boots stepped on the dirty ground, they became covered in a layer of dirty water.

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Chapter Seventy-Four: Henpecked

The people behind bars saw Yan Jin Qiu appear, and terror rose in their eyes. It was as though the one who came in was not a handsome nobleman but a soul reaper from hell.

A manservant who had been committing torture hurriedly threw away the whip dripping with blood when he saw Yan Jin Qiu appear, and went forward to bow.

The manservant behind Yan Jin Qiu quickly set up a table and a chair, and then stood behind Yan Jin Qiu with his gaze focused in one spot. He seemed to not smell the rot and blood illing the prison.

“Has someone confessed?” Yan Jin Qiu raised his teacup and idly blew on the steam coming off. Then he took a sip and said, “Last time, you managed to let someone escape and even caused Wang Fei to be wounded. Ben wang is very unhappy right now.”

The manservant who guarded the jail changed expression. He knelt down, ignoring the dirty water on the ground, but did not dare to raise his head to plead for mercy.

The room became silent. Yan Jin Qiu swept his eyes across the manservants. He brushed the cover of the teacup across the surface. A

moment later, he pointed to two manservants kneeling in the corner. “Take them away.”

The two manservants wanted to speak out and plead for mercy, but their mouths were gagged and they were pulled away.

“Do not act in front of ben wang.” Yan Jin Qiu put down the teacup. His eyes became sharp. “Whoever is tired of living, ben wang doesn’t mind sending them on their journey.”

If Xi Wan had not been clever last time, he didn’t know how much trouble would have been caused. He didn’t know how much Hua Xi Wan knew, but she had not asked questions in the past few days. She wasn’t curious about the secret under his study, as though she had really been the target of an assassination and did not hear any secrets regarding him.

He had thought about the responses Hua Xi Wan might have, like fury, curiosity, or dislike of him. But all of his guesses missed. This surprised him, and also pleased him. There were countless women in the world, but only she was so special in his eyes.

“Since these people are not willing to confess, then they do not have to speak. There’s no use for their tongues,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a cold smile. “These people prey on my Xian Wang Fu being weak; ben wang naturally has to treat them well.”

A while later, screams came from the prison. He looked on coldly. When the servant presented the cut off tongues in front of him, he glanced over the bloodied tongues. “Since these are things that came off them, then they should take care of them. Ben wang hopes that by the next visit, these people will have confessed in writing. Otherwise, their hands are useless.”

The ones who had their tongues cut off rolled on the ground in pain. When they heard his words, they didn’t dare to move. They retreated to the corners and trembled. When their tongues were thrown in front of them, their terror reached a peak. They covered their heads and didn’t dare to look.

Walking out of the underground prison, Yan Jin Qiu bathed before walking towards the main yard with his hair down. When he walked into Hua Xi Wan’s room, the nurse was changing the dressing for Hua Xi Wan. Seeing him come in, everyone in the room bowed.

“There’s no need for courtesy.” Yan Jin Qiu walked next to Hua Xi Wan, still slightly damp, and carefully lifted her arm. Before, he had only seen Hua Xi Wan when her arm had already been bandaged. Only now did he see how deep the wound was.

While it h

ad been a few days, the wound was still swollen. It was the length of a hand and seemed exceptionally ugly on that pale and perfect arm. The thread sewing the wound shut had been dyed by blood into a red-black

color. The original color could not be seen. However, he felt great pain just looking at it.

His hand that held the arm trembled slightly. Yan Jin Qiu felt a heavy weight on his chest. “Does it still hurt?”

No wonder she had not had a good sleep these past nights. The wound was so painful—how could she have a peaceful sleep?

“It’s all right.” Hua Xi Wan used her unhurt right hand to caress his wet hair. “It is cold right now. How is it that you came with wet hair? Quick, dry it off.”

Mu Tong perceptively handed over a clean towel. Yan Jin Qiu waved him aside when he came to serve, and took the towel himself. “Just now, I had some mud on my body. I was worried it would come into contact with your wound, so I came after washing. How come the wound is so red?”

“Wang Ye, do not worry. Wang Fei’s wound is deep, and it is possible for it to be swollen at the start. But if she rests well, it will not look so shocking when the dressing is changed next time.” The nurse spoke carefully. “Please, Wang Ye, do not worry. This subject is preparing to change Wang Fei’s dressing.”

Yan Jin Qiu saw the bowl in the nurse’s hand that contained a dark green medicinal liquid. It did not smell noxious. He put down the towel

in his hand and carefully lifted up Hua Xi Wan’s left arm with both of his hands. He ordered, “Be careful, and do not cause pain for Wang Fei.”

After the medicine was put on, and the bandages wrapped, the nurse saw that Xian Wang’s brow was tightly locked. She thought that he was displeased with the conduct of the Imperial Hospital and explained, “While the stitches on the wound appear frightening, they are bene icial for Wang Fei’s wound to heal. In a few more days, the grand doctor will come to take the stitches out. Wang Ye, please do not object.”

“Ben wang understands. Everyone in the Imperial Hospital has worked hard.” Yan Jin Qiu was worried about Hua Xi Wan’s wound, but he would not vent his displeasure on a nurse who did not have any status. After calling for a servant to see the nurse out, he sighed before saying to Hua Xi Wan, “You did not have to do this.”

“Since I decided to do it, then I have to do it well. Otherwise, the losses outweigh the gains.” Hua Xi Wan thought of the faithful and intelligent Bai Xia and Hong Ying. She said, “Let them take good care of Bai Xia and Hong Ying. While they cannot be looked after by the grand doctor due to their status, still the medicine from the Imperial Hospital can be given to them, and a good doctor in Jing can be found.”

“I have had people already take care of your two maids. Mu Tong has also arranged for a few young servant girls to serve them. Do not worry about this.” Yan Jin Qiu gripped her hand lightly. “This matter has caused you to suffer.”

“Husband and wife are one. If something happens to you, will I be untouched?” Hua Xi Wan reached to touch his half-dried hair. “Dry your hair more. It will not be good if you get sick.”

Yan Jin Qiu pressed a light kiss to the back of her hand. “If I am sick, I do not have to deal with the matters of the court.”

As expected, on the next day, news that Xian Wang was ill came out of Xian Wang Fu. Some said that Xian Wang was truly in love with Xian Wang Fei, taking care of her day and night, and causing him to fall ill. Some said that Xian Wang was angry and hurt that such a terrible thing had happened in his home, and it caused him to fall ill.

But no matter how anyone else speculated, the grand doctor who went to take Xian Wang’s pulse con irmed that Xian Wang was truly ill, and was not just pretending in order to trick the outside world.

Looking at Xian Wang Fei who was talking as she sat on the side of the bed with her wounded arm, and using her other uninjured arm to tuck in the blanket for Xian Wang, the grand doctor sighed inside and then bent his head to write a prescription.

“Wang Fei, Wang Ye has become ill due to being too tired and having an evil wind enter his body. He should not go outside or be cold in the next few days. After drinking medicine and sweating it out, there will be no major problems.”

“Thank you for your trouble.” Hua Xi Wan nodded politely to the grand doctor and had Mu Tong personally see the other out of the fu. Then she turned and glared at Yan Jin Qiu who lay obediently on the bed. “I told you to dry your hair. You didn’t listen to me. Now you are ill and in discomfort.”

Yan Jin Qiu obediently pulled his blanket up as he was being glared at by his wang fei. He covered his chin, and blinked his eyes to show he was innocent.

“Do not pretend to be adorable. Your face is red—there is nothing adorable.” Hua Xi Wan exasperatedly reached out to touch his scorching forehead and called a servant to bring wine. She used her uninjured hand to wipe him all over, and when she was wiping his behind, she couldn’t resist slapping it, which gave off a crisp sound.

Yan Jin Qiu: “…”

He felt that he didn’t have any respect left as a husband.

The smell of the alcohol on his body was slightly nasty. He sniffed and wanted to speak, but then saw Hua Xi Wan’s cold eyes.

In the end, he silently pulled the blanket to cover himself and tried to make it so that no air made it inside the blanket.

She ordered the servants to open two windows far away from Yan Jin Qiu. He was sick, and yet they had the doors and windows covered tightly. Did they want to incubate the virus in the room?

Silently watching as Hua Xi Wan ordered the servants, and seeing two of his windows opened and the coal basin nearest to him moved away, Yan Jin Qiu strangely felt better. This was probably his most novel experience of being ill.

When he had been ill in childhood, the people around him had comforted him and spoiled him. Then he had inherited the wang fu and was rarely ill. When he was ill, the people serving him trembled and didn’t dare to breathe.

This time… other than getting his behind slapped, all of the other experiences were not bad.

“The coal basin should not be put too close to a person; it is not good for the throat.” Hua Xi Wan saw that there was sweat already gathering at his nose tip and said, “First sweat it out. You’ll feel much better after having a sweat.”

While Yan Jin Qiu felt uncomfortable because of the stickiness of his body, he was docile as he saw Hua Xi Wan’s expression of concern. Gradually, drowsiness rose.

“Sleep for a while. When the medicine is done, I will wake you.”

Forcing himself to remain awake, Yan Jin Qiu said, “You should return to your room to rest. Do not let my illness pass to you.”

“Patients should not worry about this. Go to sleep.” Hua Xi Wan used a handkerchief to wipe the sweat on Yan Jin Qiu’s nose. Seeing him inally unable to resist his drowsiness, she sat for a while before walking to the outside room. Under Zi Shan’s urgings, she drank half a bowl of ginger soup before saying, “Move the soft couch into the room, and be quiet.”

People needed company the most when they were ill. She had married into Xian Wang Fu. No matter how much true emotion Yan Jin Qiu had for her, he had never treated her ill at all. So seeing that he was sick, she felt that she could keep him company.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Seventy-Five: The Winds Rise Again

Yan Jin Qiu woke up groggy from a heavy sleep. It might have been because he had slept for so long, or because he was ill, that he felt his vision was slightly blurry. He only focused when he heard movement beside him.

“Is it a little better?”

A warm hand appeared on his forehead. He blinked and saw Hua Xi Wan bend down to touch her lips to his forehead.

“Your temperature has gone down.” Hua Xi Wan straightened up. “You slept for many hours. Get up and eat something.”

The servant girl standing behind perceptively handed over a porcelain bowl painted with blue over white. Hua Xi Wan used her injured hand to hold the bowl as she used her right hand to raise the spoon for a taste. It was slightly hot, so she blew on the spoon before moving it in front of Yan Jin Qiu. “Come, taste this. This is a vegetable porridge that I had the kitchens make just for you. After you recover, I will have them make good things for you to eat. Right now, I can only irst maltreat your stomach.”

Mu Tong helped Yan Jin Qiu sit up against the bed. Seeing Wang Fei use a tone as though she was talking to a child to treat Wang Ye, he looked

carefully at Wang Ye. Not seeing any anger on his face, Mu Tong bowed and moved to the side.

Yan Jin Qiu looked at the porridge inside the spoon. She said it was vegetable porridge, and it really was a simple vegetable porridge. Finely chopped vegetables gave off a faint fragrance scattered among the glowing grains of rice. He felt a great hunger and swallowed the spoonful.

Seeing Yan Jin Qiu eating, Hua Xi Wan used chopsticks to pick up a piece of inely cut pickled carrots from a dish on the side. She moved it to Yan Jin Qiu’s mouth with a smile. “Come, try this.”

“What is this?” Yan Jin Qiu looked with puzzlement at what was on the chopsticks.

“This is pickled carrots. It is not very hard to make. Every year when there are the most vegetables, the common people will put them into salt water to soak. During seasons when there are not many vegetables, they will eat this with rice.” Hua Xi Wan thought and then added, “When one eats too much oily food, this is very suitable for stimulating the appetite.”

He had heard that many of the common people ate this. Yan Jin Qiu was suspicious of the taste of this food, but he still put it into his mouth. It was slightly sour and slightly salty. He could not say if it was good or not. However, because it was salty, it was really a match for the rice.

What Hua Xi Wan did not tell Yan Jin Qiu was that the pickled vegetables that he ate had gone through many steps. They had been soaked in saltwater along with other kinds of ingredients. The kind that the common people ate did not have so much care put into it.

“It is all right to occasionally taste this. Will there be any effects if one eats this frequently?” Yan Jin Qiu inished drinking the porridge with the pickled vegetables. After rinsing his mouth, he asked, “The medical books say that pickled food commonly harms the body.”

“Of course it is not good to frequently eat this.” Hua Xi Wan used a hot towel to wipe his hands with one of hers. “Most of the common people will think of all kinds of ways to make their lives better. Otherwise, why would so many novel foods appear from among them?”

“The truly intelligent and able usually are among the common people.” Yan Jin Qiu sighed. “But even so, it would be better if they had more fresh vegetables and fruit to eat.” The prestigious and noble families would never lack food, but the common people’s livelihoods depended on the weather. It was good if the weather was good, but if it was a bad year, the days were hard.

“Rest a while longer.” Hua Xi Wan pushed on his shoulder for him to go back under the blankets. “You cannot bathe today. You can only do so after you recover—do you understand?”

Yan Jin Qiu only showed his head above the blankets and nodded obediently.

Satis ied with his cooperation, Hua Xi Wan nodded. “Sleep, I will stay here.”

A hint of a smile appeared on Yan Jin Qiu’s lips, and then he really did close his eyes and drift off. Maybe it was because he had someone who was willing and sincere in accompanying him, or maybe it was because his body was weak from the illness, that he had a very good sleep. When he woke up, it was morning.

He sat up from the bed and saw a thick mattress spread out on the chaise next to the bed. Hua Xi Wan was laid out on it, her hair falling down to the ground. The entire room was quiet.

Putting on an outer robe, he walked next to the window. Pushing the window open, he found that the outside was misty and blurry like a mystical world.

“You are awake?” Hua Xi Wan rubbed her eyes and woke up. Looking at the scenery outside, she said, “Such thick mist.”

The servant girls outside heard noise coming from inside the rooms. After a greeting, they came looding in with things to help them wash. They changed into clean clothes. Hua Xi Wan saw Yan Jin Qiu recover his energetic state and said with a yawn, “It was you who was ill, but why does it look as though I was the one ill.”

Yesterday afternoon, the three from the palace had sent servants with medicine to the wang fu. It appeared as though Yan Jin Qiu was having a great illness and not just a small cold.

Yan Jin Qiu saw that Hua Xi Wan still had tiredness on her face and knew that she had not rested well in order to care for him. He said, “After eating the morning meal, rest some more.”

“En.” Hua Xi Wan nodded. She felt this idea was a very good one.

Because Yan Jin Qiu had recovered, his morning meal became lean meat porridge and some minor dishes. After eating, he heard a shocking news. Hua Xi Wan’s hopes of having a nap were destroyed as well.

“Wang Ye, Wang Fei, crying sounded from Princess Rui He’s fu today. The fuma has passed away.” Mu Tong saw Hua Xi Wan’s expression was slightly shocked and said, “This one heard that he passed away after four in the morning.”

Compared to the lamboyant nature of Princess Rui He in Jing, this Rui He Fuma was much more low-key. No matter what major or minor matters happened in Jing, this fuma did not like to participate. Because Princess Rui He supported a few handsome manservants in the princess fu, many people laughed at this fuma for being a cuckold. However, no one ever saw this fuma react. He still lived idly. Who would believe that such an open-minded person would pass away so suddenly?

“It really is not peaceful recently.” Hua Xi Wan’s brow furrowed. After she had married Yan Jin Qiu, many things had happened in Jing. Ever since the case of Master Zhang, disturbing events kept on occurring in Jing. Even the Crown Prince had lost his life in this ight for succession. She didn’t know how many people would fall into this ight.

Yan Jin Qiu clasped her hand lightly. “Do not be afraid.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled at him and then said, “When you leave the fu in the future, remember to take a few more guards along. Now that you are a qinwang, it is not a break with etiquette if you take a few more.”

“All right.” Yan Jin Qiu accepted with a smile. “The situation is clear now. I will go to the princess fu. Your arm is heavily injured, so you do not need to appear right now.”

One had to complete the act. Also, the wound on Hua Xi Wan’s arm was not a light one. He couldn’t bear for her to make the trip to the princess fu.

Hua Xi Wan understood what Yan Jin Qiu thought and agreed. An hour later, when she was lying on the bed, she heard a servant report that the junior minister of the Judicial Of ice, Zhang Hou, as well as the assistant minister of the Ministry of Justice was asking for an audience.

She could only climb up from bed to dress and put on makeup. As Zi Shan arranged her hair, she asked with puzzlement, “Didn’t this Junior

Minister Zhang anger the Emperor? How is he still in his role as junior minister of the Judicial Of ice?”

“This servant does not know.” Zi Shan’s brow furrowed. “This servant heard Mu Gonggong say that it was because many people praised Junior Minister Zhang for being fair and just, not afraid of authority. The Emperor sees his virtue, so he was kept on.”

Qilong Emperor just didn’t want to leave behind a bad reputation. While he praised Zhang Hou, he probably hated the person. Many among the prestigious families knew what the Emperor thought. This was something that could only fool those scholars who did not understand politics.

Zhang Hou sat in the side hall of the front hall of the wang fu. He accepted the tea the servant presented and took the opportunity to observe the decorations of the side hall as he took a sip. He felt an elegant presence, and it made him feel with a glance that the owner of the fu was fond of elegance.

“Young Minister Zhang, please wait for a moment. Wang Fei will arrive soon,” a taijian wearing blue robes said in a polite tone. “Apologies for making you wait.”

“It’s nothing. It is this one making a disturbance.” Zhang Hou smiled politely at this taijian. He might now recognize this taijian, but he could see from the cloth that this taijian wore that he was at least a steward of the wang fu.

The of icial registar of the Judicial Of ice who had come with him sat carefully and occasionally glanced at the doorway. Inside, he felt a great predicament. Recently, it was as though there was an ill energy going around Jing. Something happened every two or three days. It caused bad days for everyone in the Judicial Of ice and the Ministry of Justice.

Assistant Minister Hu of the Ministry of Justice was responsible for the case of Xian Wang Fei’s assassination. He himself knew that there would only be one result for this case: inding a scapegoat. In reality, everyone knew that this assassination had something to do with the ight for succession. However, no one could say this, and he didn’t dare to investigate. Then what he could do was ind a scapegoat who could satisfy both Xian Wang Fu and the other people involved.

But no matter what, he had to follow normal procedures. This Xian Wang Fei had been injured for four days; she should be able to see guests now.

“Daren, Wang Fei has arrived.” The blue-robed taijian from just now walked in after leaving for a brief moment. After reporting this, he bowed and stood at the side.

The people seated simultaneously stood. Not long after, they saw Xian Wang Fei appear dressed in a plain green loor-length robe. They hurriedly greeted, “This lowly of icial greets Wang Fei.”

“I have caused Daren to wait for a long time. Please rise.” Hua Xi Wan sat down at the front with help from Zi Shan’s hand. Seeing them still standing, she said, “Please sit.”

The Judicial Of ice Registar had only heard that Xian Wang Fei was devastatingly beautiful but had never seen her before. Seeing her today, he could not think of any descriptive phrases. He only felt that Xian Wang had great fortune to have married such a beauty.

“For what matter did Daren come today?” Hua Xi Wan had the servants switch out new tea for them. She said with a smile, “If we can help, our Xian Wang Fu will cooperate fully.”

Zhang Hou saw that Xian Wang Fei’s expression was pale and her left arm was unnaturally curved. He knew that her injury had not healed and stood to say with his folded hands raised, “It really is out of helplessness that this one has come to disturb Wang Fei today. But in order to do our best to ind the mastermind behind the assassin, Wang Fei, please tell of the events in as much detail as possible.”

“So that is how it is.” Hua Xi Wan had an expression of realization and forced a smile. She said, “Everyone has been working on this matter, and I, the person involved, should talk about the events.”

The people present saw that while Xian Wang Fei had a smile on her face, her eyes still hid fear that was unable to be disguised when she possibly thought of what had happened.

Assistant Minister Hu sighed. He pitied Xian Wang Fei. Such a weak female had experienced such a scare. She was still like this several days after the event. It could be seen just how dangerous the situation had been.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Seventy-Six: True and False Intentions

There were several silver coal stoves placed in the large side hall. There was only hot heat but no smothering smoke. The servants were all silent with bowed heads. Everywhere, the authority of the wang fu was present.

Xian Wang Fei’s words were slightly slow, but no one present dared to press her. Assistant Minister Hu carefully took out a handkerchief from his sleeve and wiped the sweat on his forehead. He wondered if there were too many heaters placed in the side hall. When he raised his head and saw the pale complexion of Xian Wang Fei, he recalled that those who were anemic were afraid of the cold. Consequently, he now believed one hundred percent that Xian Wang Fei had been injured.

“A few days ago, because Lin Ping Junzhu… Lin Ping Xianzhu came to this one’s fu to visit, I had some differences in opinion with her and a verbal argument. In the days after, I felt guilty and anxious. That day, because I felt irritated, I couldn’t help but vent and had all the servants leave.” Hua Xi Wan’s grip on the teacup tightened. “Then two of the servant girls who have served me since childhood came back to comfort me. But a moment after the two of them entered, a taijian came to report that Wang Ye had something to give to me. I believed it and allowed him in the door. Who… who knew that it wasn’t just the taijian who entered but also a manservant behind him. My servant girls detected that something was not right and were wary. One even was fast enough to throw a vase at the taijian. The manservant suddenly charged and raised a blade to kill…”

Hua Xi Wan’s hand that held the teacup trembled. She raised her head to grimace at the people seated. “What happened afterward was too chaotic, and I cannot explain the details even now. I only remember my two servant girls screaming that there was an assassin. If it wasn’t for my attendants who faithfully protected me, I probably would not be seated here today.”

“This has been a scare for Wang Fei. This lowly servant will de initely investigate this matter to the bottom.” Assistant Minister Hu was someone who had been at his job for many years, and in his view, Xian Wang Fei’s actions were normal. He had heard the news that Lin Ping Xianzhu and Xian Wang Fei had a verbal argument, and even heard that Lin Ping Xianzhu had pointed at Xian Wang Fei and called her a calamity. This had greatly shamed the Xian Couple. Fortunately, Xian Wang was kind and asked for mercy for Lin Ping Xianzhu at the court session. It was hard to blame Xian Wang Fei for feeling so when encountering a sister-in-law like Lin Ping Xianzhu.

“I have to trouble Daren. There have been many things happening in Jing recently, and I really feel bad that my matter has caused everyone to work.” Hua Xi Wan looked at the sky outside and pretended to be a noblewoman who was frightened but still maintained the composure of a wang fei. “So I will thank everyone here.”

“We don’t dare, we don’t dare; this is this lowly of icial’s duty.” Everyone liked people who were friendly. Assistant Minister Hu was not an exception. He had originally been worried that Xian Wang Fei would be a woman with whom it was hard to interact, based on her beauty and high status. However, after talking for such a short while, he discovered that his speculation had been ridiculously off. It was normal for such a beautiful and gentle woman to be the only object of Xian Wang’s love.

“This lowly of icial still has a presumptuous request and asks for Wang Fei’s permission.”

“Of icial Hu, please speak.”

“May this lowly of icial and the others ask your two servant girls some brief questions?” This was the procedure when they investigated a case. Even though it was something that almost never happened in the nobility circles, he still asked as a matter of procedure.

“I do not intend to oppose Daren in ful illing your duties. However, my two servant girls are girls who do not see outside guests. If Daren do not object to have servant women present, I will have one lead the way.”

“That should be the case.” Hearing this, Assistant Minister Hu had an even better impression of Hua Xi Wan. A wang fei who cared about the reputations of her servant girls—no wonder she received such loyalty from her servant girls. These two servants were unmarried. It was ine if they met outside, but it really was inappropriate for them to go to the female’s rooms without anyone else present.

Seeing the two wounded servant girls, Assistant Minister Hu saw that they were being served by younger servant girls. The decorations in the room were tasteful, and it could be seen that the two servant girls had a high status among the servants of the wang fu.

He asked a few short questions. The answers he received were about the same as Xian Wang Fei’s. However, because the perspective was different, what they focused on was also different. It caused what they said to be true.

After doing this, they were politely sent off from the fu by the servants. Assistant Minister Hu said to Zhang Hou, “Junior Minister Zhang, what do you think about this case?” After the successive incidents that happened recently, their Ministry of Defense and the Judicial Of ice lived every day with their hearts in the air. So in comparison, he was already relieved to be given the case of Xian Wang Fu where no one had died. He was better off than his fellow who had to investigate the sudden death of Rui He Fuma.

In the Imperial Family, a sudden death meant that if someone was dead, don’t ask questions. So the person who took on this assignment had to work against his conscience and go along with what the Imperial Family wanted. He also had to hope that the family of Rui He Fuma was not brave, and didn’t dare to be discontent. If they encountered someone with a temper that blamed the person investigating, then it would be really unfortunate.

Zhang Hou moved his gaze away from the stone lion at the gates of Xian Wang Fu. He thought and then said, “This case is very dif icult. Adding on that the assassin has already been killed, it is very dif icult to ind the mastermind.” He did not mention that the assassin disguised as a manservant had marks on his body. Seven of his ingernails had been pulled out and ive of his toes had been smashed. This all said that this person had been tortured.

“Isn’t that the case?” Assistant Minister Hu sighed. “It is a pity that Xian Wang Fei was wounded so seriously by such a person; so horrid.”

“En.” Zhang Hou thought of how Xian Wang Fei had appeared sitting in the carriage. His brow moved slightly and he said, “Fortunately…”

“Daren, where have you come from?” A voice that was reedy but would not make people dislike it sounded beside them. Zhang Hou turned and saw it was the personal attendant of Xian Wang, Mu Tong. He bowed politely and said, “We have just visited the fu.”

Mu Tong moved his body sideways to avoid the bow and then returned a major bow. He sighed and then said, “Daren, you need to investigate carefully and not let the villain behind this escape. These days, Wang Fei has not been energetic, and the grand doctor just said that she has been frightened. The prescriptions they gave are not effective, and it really has been hard for Wang Ye.”

“Of course, of course, Chief Steward Mu Tong,” Assistant Minister Hu answered. Seeing that Mu Tong’s forehead was covered in sweat even in such cold weather, he asked in concern, “Chief Steward Mu, why are you in such a hurry?”

“I’m running errands for Wang Ye.” Mu Tong smiled politely at Assistant Minister, Hu but there was no mirth in his eyes.

Assistant Minister Hu realized that his words were not appropriate. If one didn’t know, they would think that he was trying to learn the whereabouts of Wang Ye. So he closed his mouth and did not speak. He raised his folded hands to Mu Tong and found an excuse to leave.

Assistant Minister Hu left with the people of the Ministry of Justice. Mu Tong looked at his back with a smile and then turned to Zhang Hou. “Of icial Zhang, do you have anything else?”

“I hear that reishi mushrooms, pine seeds, and sour dates are all things that promote sleep. Why doesn’t Chief Steward Mu Tong try?” Zhang Hou said politely. “This one bids farewell.”

Mu Tong bowed with a faint smile. “Of icial Zhang, goodbye.”

Watching as Zhang Hou left, Mu Tong’s brow creased slightly. He turned and looked at the young taijian behind him. “Be polite to the of icials, no matter their rank. Don’t let other people give Wang Ye the crime of not having disciplined servants.”

“Yes.” The young taijian respectfully responded.

“If you meet one who doesn’t have eyes, there are ways to take care of them. Acting immediately is the worst move. We are just eunuchs who serve our masters; we cannot compare to these of icials in robes.”

The young taijian buried his head deeper. “Many thanks, Master, for the guidance. This disciple knows.”

“En.” Mu Tong nodded, satis ied.

In Princess Rui He’s fu, Yan Jin Qiu and the other members of the Imperial House who had come for the mourning sat in the same room. The mood inside the room was very heavy. Even though most people did not feel sorrow, they created a good atmosphere.

Yan Bo Yi was very popular among the of icials, but the closely related members of the Imperial House had an average attitude about him. These members liked the elegant and noble Yan Jin Qiu better. In their minds, Yan Jin Qiu was more itting to the image of an imperial son. Yan Bo Yi seemed to be pretentious in their mind.

“Xian Wang, how are Xian Wang Fei’s injuries?” a junwang asked. “Has the mastermind been caught?”

“The wounds are better, but it really harmed the vitality this time. It will probably take a few more days to recover.” Yan Jin Qiu sighed. “The mastermind was very careful and it will probably be highly dif icult to ind them.”

“People like this are worthy of hate,” the junwang swore. After comforting Yan Jin Qiu with a few words, he did not speak any more. Rui He Fuma had just passed away. Even though they all knew that

Princess Rui He didn’t have much sincerity about this fuma, they couldn’t show it openly on their faces.

Yan Bo Yi could hear that the words were intended to him, but his expression did not change. He raised his teacup and took a slow sip. He looked with an unchanged expression at Yan Jin Qiu and then lowered his eyes to look at the slightly bitter tea water.

Because it was not the day of the fuma’s funeral, they did not stay the whole day. After placing the incense, they started to gradually leave the princess fu. When Yan Bo Yi just returned to the wang fu, he saw his personal attendant Qing He come forward with a slightly complex expression. “Junwang Ye, just now, a servant from the Eastern Yard came to report that Xu Cefei is more than a month pregnant.”

Yan Bo Yi’s brow furrowed. The child had really come at a bad time. Even though it was conceived before the Crown Prince’s death, it would not be a good matter for his fu to have the news that a concubine was pregnant just after the Crown Prince and the fuma had both passed away.

A beat later, he sighed. “The grand doctor’s diagnosis was wrong. Xu Cefei’s monthlies are just irregular.”

Qing He lowered his head and said, “This one understands.”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Seventy-Seven: Promise

Because of the successive incidents that had occurred in Jing, the event of a cefei from Sheng Junwang Fu being sent off to a country estate was not worth a mention in the eyes of other people.

The spy whom the Emperor had put inside Sheng Junwang Fu had not found anything. They only knew that on the day, a doctor had come to take this cefei’s pulse, and at night, Xu Cefei had been sent off to an estate. The reason was because Sheng Junwang Fei had a weak constitution and it was not suitable for a seriously ill Xu Cefei to stay in Jing, so as to prevent her from passing the illness to Sheng Junwang Fei.

Many people thought of this matter as Sheng Junwang Fei acting against a concubine, but Hua Xi Wan felt it was suspicious after hearing this. Hou shi was a very smart person and usually had a virtuous reputation. If she intended to act against a concubine, how could she use such a base method? With Hou shi’s personality, she would only have the doctor take care of Xu Cefei in her recovery rather than send Xu Cefei off to an estate.

If it wasn’t Hou shi’s idea, then the decisionmaker could only be Sheng Junwang. Hou shi was just forced to take on the crime for him. But what matter could cause Yan Bo Yi to send his woman in the middle of the night to an estate?

Hua Xi Wan thought and told her suspicions to Yan Jin Qiu. “Hou shi de initely is not someone who would act like this.”

“What do you think is the most likely cause?” Yan Jin Qiu handed her a piece of fruit stuck on a silver toothpick. He was sitting cross-legged next to Hua Xi Wan and idly lipped a page of his book. The two of them were curled up on a chaise with a warm blanket over their legs. There was a little wooden bed tray with fruit on it beside them. Their day was very luxurious.

Hua Xi Wan was too lazy to reach out and take it, so she moved her head and bit down on the fruit in Yan Jin Qiu’s hand. Then she said with a creased brow, “Had this Xu Cefei committed a wrong?”

“If she had really been so daring, then Yan Bo Yi wouldn’t have sent her off to an estate, but would have taken her life right then and there.” Yan Jin Qiu saw that Hua Xi Wan was unwilling to take the fruit with her hand and could only hold the toothpick until she inished eating. Then he speared another piece to eat himself.

Standing in the corner, Mu Tong sighed once again inside. When had Wang Ye turned out like this? Even in private, in the past Wang Ye had been someone who was careful. But now… People said those close to ink are dyed black, and those close to vermillion are dyed crimson—it really was true.

Mu Tong wiped his face and retreated further into the corner. He felt that in a situation like this, anyone who stood on the side was extraneous.

“Then what is the cause?” Hua Xi Wan suspected that Yan Jin Qiu had spies in Sheng Junwang Fu, but she had no intentions of caring about such matters. She only needed to know the result of some matters.

“Have you thought it is because this cefei is pregnant?”

“It is good to be pregnant…” Hua Xi Wan immediately understood. If this was any usual time, then it was good for a cefei to be pregnant, but at this time, it was not good to be pregnant.

When she thought about it, she felt disgusted. She was even unable to keep reading. With a furrowed brow, she said, “Even tigers do not eat their cubs. If he does not want this child to affect him, he can send the person somewhere else. He should not have this child die in the belly.”

“With his ambitions, he will not tolerate any uncertain factors. Only when this pregnancy does not exist at all will it suit his choice.” Yan Bo Yi thought of Yan Jin Qiu as his opponent, and Yan Jin Qiu would naturally not be ignorant about him. He understood some of Yan Bo Yi’s personality. “When he ascends to the throne, what woman can’t he have? How could he lack in sons and daughters?”

Hua Xi Wan’s brow rose slightly, and she did not want to continue this topic. She felt her dislike of Yan Bo Yi reach an extreme. She yawned. “Tomorrow is the burial day of Rui He Fuma; everything needed for the funeral altar has been arranged. But I had the servants prepare two. One is slightly more grand, and one is done according to the protocol for the rank of fuma. Which one is more suitable to be put out?”

“Rui He Fuma had a sudden death without cause. It is not very auspicious. The new year has just passed but it hasn’t been the irst full moon yet. It is not good to make it too signi icant. Just put out the one that is according to protocol.” Yan Jin Qiu was very indirect in his words, but Hua Xi Wan knew that this matter was de initely related to the Emperor’s family. So they could not work against the Emperor. If they acted according to protocol, it would not seem as though they were unkind, and it would not cause displeasure with the Emperor.

When it was morning and the burial day of Rui He Fuma, the burial rites were done according to the fuma rank. It was not frugal, but there was nothing extra. Most of the funeral altars that the houses set along the path were low-key, and some people even had very desolate ones. From a glance, it could be seen that they were just going through the motions.

The young son of Princess Rui He held the tablet and walked with red eyes at the front. His gaze swept across the poorly decorated funeral altars, and his eyes became even redder. However, he gritted his teeth and did not allow the tears to fall.

“Xian Wang Fu pays respects to the dead!”

When the young child heard this, he stopped walking. His gaze landed on the funeral altar from Xian Wang Fu that was clearly more suited to the rank of fuma than the funeral altars of any of the other families, as well as on the mourners behind the altar who were dressed in hemp clothing and were crying. After bowing to express his gratefulness, he continued to walk forward.

The cries of the mourners came from behind him. He looked dazedly at the front. His beloved father had gone, and he felt cold in the enormous princess fu. In the future, who would hold him to read and learn to write, and who would tell him how to be a good person?

The money for the netherworld fell down, and the little child inally started to cry amid the wails from the mourners.

The burial rites of Rui He Fuma were rushed, and he was buried just three days after his passing. The people in Jing were ones who swung with the wind, so they were not diligent with their funeral altars. It was a pity that they forgot that this fuma had a son and this child would probably remember deeply everything they had done.

The cause of Rui He Fuma’s death was discovered by the coroner. It was announced that the cause was a sudden stroke and that it was an accident. Therefore, no one had to think more about it, and if they did, they would offend the Emperor.

This matter was smoothed over like this. Princess Rui He had lost her fuma and also her younger brother, so she didn’t often come out of her fu. She would occasionally come out to accompany the Empress in the palace and didn’t go anywhere else.

But after several people had passed away in succession, the First Full Moon Festival of Qilong Year Twenty Nine was exceptionally bleak. The usually busy festival was much more somber than usual, and the igures

of the nobility were missing. However, this did not affect the days of the common people. There were those who sold paper lanterns and foods, and it was very busy. Little children ran around with little animal lanterns and added a cheer to the atmosphere.

The prestigious and noble families put out beautiful lower lanterns on this day, but they were more low-key. They did not want to provoke the Emperor and Empress whose son had just died.

Fortunately, while the Emperor and Empress felt depressed inside, they still remembered to bestow down some lower lanterns to prestigious and noble families of status. On the surface, they had to celebrate with their subjects.

Xian Wang Fu received two palace lanterns. The lantern covers were made of ine brocade, and blooming lowers were drawn on it. It was very well-made, but it wasn’t very interesting. Hua Xi Wan glanced over it and had people put it away. While they could not carelessly damage what was bestowed down, there was nothing wrong in having people carefully put it away.

It wasn’t just the Emperor and Empress who sent things. The Empress Dowager also did the same and sent someone with a lower lantern that had a child holding a ish. This lantern was also very well made, and the meaning was good, but Hua Xi Wan did not want to think more about the meaning implied.

There were a few more months before she turned seventeen, and she did not want to harm her own body. Giving the greatest care to her health for childbearing was her responsibility to her child.

Fortunately, Yan Jin Qiu was also not in a hurry to have a child. Otherwise, she would have to spend great effort to achieve her aims.

“Why are you staring at the lower lantern?” When Yan Jin Qiu entered the room, he saw Hua Xi Wan’s gaze land on the lantern with the child holding the ish. He thought she wanted a child and said, “You want a child?”

Hua Xi Wan raised her head to look at him. Wasn’t this misunderstanding too great?

“Don’t think too much now.” Because he truly wanted to live for a lifetime with Hua Xi Wan, Yan Jin Qiu did not bear for her to suffer so much so young. “You are young now; we can consider this matter after you turn eighteen. Don’t worry—there will only be our children in Xian Wang Fu, and no one else’s.”

Yan Jin Qiu was promising her that he would not have other women give birth to his children?

Assuming that she had misunderstood what he was saying, Yan Jin Qiu came next to her and gathered her up in his arms. He explained, “It is not that I do not like children; I am just worried that your health would

be damaged by having children so early. You were ill when you were young, and it is better to strengthen your body in these two years. Then I won’t worry—do you understand?”

Hua Xi Wan nodded. “I understand.” She wasn’t someone who would not recognize when someone else was good to her. It really was rare that Yan Jin Qiu was willing to do this for her. It had to be known that with Yan Jin Qiu’s ambitions, it was more bene icial for him to have a child in this ight for the throne. But he was willing to surrender this bene it and let her have two years to prepare for pregnancy.

Actually, at present, it really was very good that a man could do this. Even in the time that she lived in her previous life, there were many men who did many things in order to have their wife give birth to a son, not to mention that in this time, people put great importance on succession. Yet Yan Jin Qiu was still willing to make this choice.

“Jin Qiu, thank you.” Hua Xi Wan smiled and reached her arms around Yan Jin Qiu’s neck. She said with mirth in her voice, “I agree with your thinking. However, my body is not as bad as you think.” Her health had not been well after she ended up in the pond to save Hua Chu Yu. Her parents would send her every spring to the general fu of her maternal family to learn martial arts to strengthen her body. So in these years, she didn’t have any ailments and was actually healthy.

Yan Jin Qiu thought of the rock that Hua Xi Wan had broken with a kick. He coughed dryly and said, “I know, but when a woman gives birth, they have one foot in life and one in death. I… worry.”

Hua Xi Wan’s heart felt slightly warm. She put her head on Yan Jin Qiu’s chest and remained quiet.

The two held each other silently, the room quiet and full of beauty.

Mu Tong came out of the room, turned and closed the door irmly. Inside, he was astounded. Wang Ye was going to do such a thing for Wang Fei! As someone who was used to seeing the vicious side of Wang Ye, he almost couldn’t believe it.

The Wang Ye in private and the Wang Ye in front of Wang Fei were two different people. The former was vicious and ruthless, the latter gentle and warm. But he felt that there was a strange harmony between the two sides.

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Chapter Seventy-Eight: The Empress Dowager’s Thoughts

After the First Moon Festival, the people in Jing slowly came out of the shadow of Rui He Fuma’s and the Crown Prince’s death. For the common people, it was not important to them who lived or died, but if their peace would be disturbed.

The Emperor’s decree of posthumously titling the Crown Prince was not announced in the end because the Crown Prince had been without virtue in life, and without talent. He could not be elevated beyond protocol by his father. Unless the unborn imperial grandson could win the argument against the of icials in the future, this Crown Prince might never be titled an emperor.

The Crown Prince’s body was left in Zhu Que Palace for a whole thirty days. The Taoists from all major monasteries came to perform ceremonies for the Crown Prince. In the end, the Crown Prince was buried with the title “Cheng.”[i] Many people felt it was a waste to give this character to the Crown Prince. However, the person was dead, and the Emperor had taken a step back, so they did not ight with the Emperor about this title.

Not long after the Crown Prince was buried, the Emperor started to become interested in the inner palace again. He even had thoughts of expanding the inner palace, but after mentioning it, he ended the thought. The of icials who had daughters sighed in relief.

Though some people were curious why the Emperor had changed ideas in the span of a night, no one would pick up the topic. Since the Emperor did not mention it again, they would pretend they hadn’t heard anything at all.

The Crown Princess sat silently by the window. She looked with slight irritation at the servant women around her who had serious expressions, “You can all leave; I want to be alone.”

“Please, Crown Princess, forgive us. This servant has been ordered to protect you—please understand.” The leader among the servant women was careful in her attitude and respectful in her tone, but she did not move.

“The Emperor has assigned you to protect bengong, not to supervise bengong.” The Crown Princess felt her anger rise and threw her bowl of nourishing soup to the ground. Watching as the ine white porcelain shattered, she felt pleasure. “Get out!”

The servant women all saw her emotions were unstable. They were afraid that her anger would harm the child inside her belly, so they hurriedly picked up the pieces of porcelain and then left.

After the room full of people left, the Crown Princess covered her face and started to cry. She thought of the time when she and the Crown Prince had just married, thought of how the Crown Prince had sunk into lust, thought of how joyful he had been when he had come out of the Heavenly Prison and learned that she was pregnant.

The Crown Prince knew that his body was slightly weak due to overexertion and it was dif icult for him to make women pregnant. That was why he was so happy when he learned she was pregnant.

But only she knew that the child in her belly had nothing to do with the Crown Prince. She lightly caressed her slightly protruding belly. She could not forget how the Empress had looked at her when they had sent the Crown Prince off at his burial.

She understood that the Empress de initely knew that the child in her belly was not the Crown Prince’s but she could do nothing now. No matter if it was the Crown Prince’s or the Emperor’s, what she could do was endure until the moment when her child would be born.

But how did she end up like this? If she had not married into the Imperial Family to start with, how could she have encountered such a terrible matter, or become widowed at such a young age?

She, more than almost everyone, hoped that her child was female. Only that would guarantee that this child could safely grow up when there were too many eyes on this child in her belly, so many that she was afraid.

The more the Crown Princess thought, the more fearful she became. She didn’t even detect that her palm was bleeding from where her nails had dug in.

“Crown Princess.” The voice of the Crown Princess’ personal maid came from outside the door. The Crown Princess sat up and wiped away the tears on her face. “Come in.”

The personal maid walked in and detected that the Crown Princess’ expression was not quite right, but she did not ask any questions. She pretended nothing was out of the ordinary and said, “This servant heard some news.”

“What?” Even though the Crown Princess did not like to scheme, in her present position, she could only choose to act irst.

“A few days ago, the Empress Dowager was chatting with a few noble ladies. They mentioned Xian Wang Fei, and she seemed to be slightly dissatis ied that there was no news from Xian Wang Fei after half a year of marriage.” The maid lowered her voice. “Just yesterday, she bestowed down some nourishing medicine to Xian Wang Fei to imply to her to have a child soon.”

Even though they were on different sides, the Crown Princess admired Hua Xi Wan. Adding on the fact that her paternal family had entered a marriage agreement with the Hua Family just recently, she did not want to make the relationship strained. Now, the Empress Dowager was in a hurry for Hua Xi Wan to have a child and increase the weight of Xian Wang in the ight for the throne. However, Hua Xi Wan’s belly had not responded, and the Empress Dowager in her hurry had attempted what was not a wise action.

Leaving aside how young Hua Xi Wan was now, even if Hua Xi Wan was eighteen now, the Empress Dowager should not have been so obvious. What would the other people think of the Imperial Family? The couple was deeply in love, but the Empress Dowager, the grandmother, was just in a hurry for the person to have a child. This was ugly to see.

“Isn’t the Empress Dowager humiliating Xian Wang Fei with this action?” The Crown Princess raised an eyebrow. She had personally seen how much Xian Wang liked Xian Wang Fei. The Empress Dowager’s action would clearly cause the displeasure of Xian Wang Fei. Xian Wang would be stuck in the middle, and this would put some barriers between him and the Empress Dowager. This was not bad for her.

“It is right for the Empress Dowager to be concerned about her juniors,” the Crown Princess said lightly. “We need to keep a close watch on Sheng Junwang Fei.” Her biggest enemy was not Xian Wang but that seemingly just and sel less Sheng Junwang.

Since yesterday, the servants of Xian Wang Fu had become especially careful because they heard that the Empress Dowager seemed to be dissatis ied with their wang fei. Wang Fei was deeply favored by Wang Ye usually. If she was not in a good mood because of this, wouldn’t the people who suffered be the servants?

Some of the prettier servant girls were secretly happy. If the Empress Dowager was dissatis ied with Wang Fei, it meant that Wang Ye might

take a concubine in order to comply with the Empress Dowager. Wouldn’t they have a chance then?

Hua Xi Wan lipped through the list of things that the Empress Dowager had bestowed. They were all ginseng or other medicines that were nourishing to females. She drank a cup of nourishing ginseng tea and then said to Cheng Qiu, “The Empress Dowager is really good to me. All of these are the best among medicines. It would be hard to obtain them even if one had the money.”

Cheng Qiu didn’t know how to answer. She was a personal maid to Wang Fei, but she was not one who had come to the wang fu with Wang Fei from the marquis fu. In front of Wang Fei, she was not put to work as often as her three seniors. Therefore, she was exceptionally careful when she served, and afraid of causing Wang Fei dissatisfaction.

The Empress Dowager’s sudden action was not good for Wang Fei. If Xian Wang took cefei like Sheng Junwang, then many terrible things would happen in the wang fu.

Hua Xi Wan saw Cheng Qiu’s wary state and waved her hand. She said, “Put these things away.” Cheng Qiu was steady, but she liked Bai Xia and the other two better. The three were better at reading people’s expressions.

In the Empress Dowager’s residential palace, Yan Jin Qiu knelt in front of the Empress Dowager and said, “Grandmother, please take back your

decree. It is not Hua shi’s fault that she does not have a child right now but it is because Grandson does not want a child.”

“You are this deeply in love with Xian Wang Fei?” The Empress Dowager had not expected that the child she had raised really was a romantic. She was not dissatis ied with Hua Xi Wan, but she would not allow Yan Jin Qiu to become a true romantic. “Also, you are twenty years old. What does it look like to not have even one child?”

“The political situation is not stable right now; Grandson doesn’t dare to risk a child.” Yan Jin Qiu’s tone was sorrowful. “Grandson also wants a child, but this is not the best time to have one.”

The Empress Dowager immediately realized it. The ighting at court was ierce. Even with the Emperor’s protection, it was not guaranteed that the Crown Princess’ child would be safely born, much less a child of a wang fu.

“Grandmother, do you still remember the year when Grandson was six?” Yan Jin Qiu raised his head to look at the Empress Dowager with admiration.

The Empress Dowager stilled and thought back.

“At that time, someone talked in secret and said that Grandson was not your true grandson. You were raising Grandson in order to disgust the Empress. Grandson was angry and punished those servants because

Grandson knows that, while Grandson is not your true grandson, your love for Grandson is greater than for your true grandson.” The rims of Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes turned red. “That night, Grandson thought, it would be great if Father-Wang was your son. That way, no one would speak of this.

“Hua shi and Grandson are married. I want her to have a hall full of children and grandchildren, want her to have her own sons and grandsons. I don’t want her to be like my mother who died in depression because of those concubines.” Yan Jin Qiu moved forward on his knees and leaned his head gently against the Empress Dowager’s legs. “Imperial Grandfather and Father-Wang caused much hardship to their women. Grandson does not want his own woman to also experience that. Grandson is useless, and can only use Hua shi to make up for the regrets.” When he said this, Yan Jin Qiu started to choke.

The Empress Dowager was in a daze for a long time. She reached out to touch the top of Yan Jin Qiu’s head. In a trembling tone, she said, “Aijia didn’t know that you have such a pure heart. Aijia was not favored by the previous emperor and never had a child. Raising you has made up for some of the regrets. You can understand what aijia and your mother endured in the past; you live up to your mother doing all she did to protect you.” The Empress Dowager thought back to the past and started to mention the events of the past. Inside, she thought that she hadn’t raised Yan Jin Qiu for nothing.

Yan Jin Qiu’s shoulders shook, and he tried his best to make his voice sound normal. “It is Grandson who is useless and cannot allow you to live as you please.”

“There will be a chance.” The Empress Dowager warmly patted the top of Yan Jin Qiu’s head and then rubbed her forehead tiredly. “Your wife is actually not bad. Since you are not willing to take a concubine, aijia will not force you. It is ine to not have a child now as long as you keep track.”

Seeing the Empress Dowager’s tiredness, Yan Jin Qiu perceptively bowed and left. When he sat on the carriage to return to the wang fu, the reverence on his face disappeared without a trace.

In the past, the Empress Dowager had done many things to guarantee that he, the grandson, would be ilial to her. The Empress Dowager even had a hand in the early passing of his mother. Did she think that without a mother, and with his father favoring a concubine, he would be exceptionally close to his grandmother?

The Empress Dowager wanted to use him and the in luence of Xian Wang Fu to threaten the Emperor and protect her status as empress dowager. Now, what the Empress Dowager wanted was to become the imperial Grand Empress Dowager who was truly respected by the Emperor.

He wanted the throne, but he did not plan on slighting his only woman in order to walk a path he did not know the result of.

Some things were not able to be obtained by sacri icing a woman.

[i]

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Chapter Seventy-Nine: Preference

After Yan Jin Qiu left, the servant woman who served the Empress Dowager came out with tea. “His Highness Xian Wang is so pure and kind—how can he reach the goal on behalf of niangniang?”

“It is good for him to be kind. If he was as cold as Yan Bo Yi, aijia would not dare to prop him up.” The Empress Dowager took a sip of tea. Her eyes were satis ied. “People who have a weakness are easier to grasp.”

“Empress Dowager, you are above the rest. You managed to discover beforehand that Xian Wang Fei was of extraordinary beauty, and managed to match Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei. The two are deeply in love now, which is the best situation.” The servant woman’s tone was reverent and full of praise. “You are extraordinary in wisdom.”

“Yi’an Marquis Fu is well-managed, but it cannot be said to be completely leak-proof.” As the servant woman praised the Empress Dowager, she couldn’t help but say a few more words. “Such a good daughter, when they were not raising her in the general fu, she was in the marquis fu, as though she couldn’t be seen in public. They also allowed people to discuss her freely. This Yi’an Marquis Fu can be said to be a generous family, but they should not be so generous. Therefore, there had to be a reason. Just as aijia had thought, the di daughter of Yi’an Marquis wasn’t a female without beauty, but one who has devastating beauty. Aijia had someone investigate a few years ago. Hua shi does not like to manage matters, and is lazy. However, she has a seductive voice and beauty. Whichever family she marries into, she would have them wrapped around her little inger. Even if Xian Wang

succeeds the throne in the future, he will lose his motivation if he has such a wang fei. This kind of emperor is the best for aijia.”

For the Empress Dowager, it was not good if either the Crown Prince or Sheng Junwang took the throne. The Crown Prince was not a capable person, and he had his own birth mother. If he succeeded the throne, there wouldn’t be any room for her, the Grand Empress Dowager, to establish herself. Sheng Junwang was too vicious, vicious to himself and even more so to others. She could not hope that this kind of emperor would be ilial to her.

Only Xian Wang had grown up by her side. He was reverent of her, and liked scholarly pursuits. While he somewhat understood how to scheme, he was not vicious, and placed great importance on emotions. For her, he was the best choice to ascend the throne.

The servant woman saw the Empress Dowager sink into thought and silently retreated to the side. Her careful attitude didn’t show any of her curiosity about Xian Wang from just a moment ago.

Hua Xi Wan woke up from her nap and found that there was a igure beside her. When she saw it was Yan Jin Qiu, she rose up from the bed. “When did you get back?”

“Just now.” Yan Jin Qiu put down the book in his hand and took an outer robe from the hanger to pull over her. “You were slighted these two days. In the future, the Empress Dowager will not bully you using these kinds of matters.”

Hua Xi Wan’s hand stilled where she had been holding the edge of the clothing. She looked at Yan Jin Qiu’s calm face. “What did you say to the Empress Dowager?”

“Nothing, don’t worry about these horrid matters.” Reaching out to touch her soft hair, Yan Jin Qiu had a slight smile on his face. “I had the kitchen already prepare the evening meal. First rise and take a walk with me in the yard. That way, you will have an appetite.”

“All right.” Hua Xi Wan did not know what Yan Jin Qiu did to have the Empress Dowager retreat, but she did not want to waste mental effort thinking about this. She changed into a simple dress, washed and then put her hair into a simple style before walking out of the door shoulder to shoulder with Yan Jin Qiu.

Some of the trees and lowers in the yard had started to bud, and it was livelier than it was in the winter. Hua Xi Wan breathed in a breathful of fresh air. She raised her head to look at the blue sky and then turned to say to Yan Jin Qiu, “Is it the higher one stands, the more beautiful the scenery they see?”

“If it is just one person admiring the scene, no matter how beautiful it is, in the end, there is only loneliness. But if there is someone who understands accompanying them, even if the scenery isn’t that good, it is still a pleasure.” Yan Jin Qiu gripped Hua Xi Wan’s hand and spoke in a gentle tone. “The beauty of the scenery depends on the mood of those who admire it.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled when she heard this. “But sometimes, one cannot have both the person who understands and the scenery. There is always a part of life that isn’t perfect.”

“How do you know without trying?” Yan Jin Qiu said with a smile. “Some things are the kind that one has to try before knowing if they will regret it.”

Hua Xi Wan was silent. Was this man counseling her? Also, he had done this before. Was he so worried that she wouldn’t want to live with him?

“You are right.” Hua Xi Wan felt that it wasn’t easy for her to have the patience to reassure a man.

As expected, when he heard Hua Xi Wan’s words, the smile on Yan Jin Qiu’s face became gentler. His hand held Hua Xi Wan’s hand with more strength.

The two walked slowly in the yard. Just as the atmosphere was perfect, sounds of porcelain breaking suddenly came from the corner. Hua Xi Wan turned back to look and saw a green-robed servant girl at the end of a little stone path. There were smashed teacups in front of her. The rising steam formed wisps of white that caused this servant girl who was kneeling on the ground to appear pitiful.

Hua Xi Wan had a slight smile on the corner of her mouth when she saw this. She said lazily, “Where do you work—how can you be so careless?” Since the other wanted to act pure and innocent, she had to act as an arrogant wang fei in order to not waste the other’s efforts.

“Wang Fei, have mercy. This servant serves in the tea room. This servant accidentally tripped and startled Wang Fei. Please forgive me.” Before Hua Xi Wan could say anything, this green-robed servant girl touched her head to the ground and gave a great bow. Her black hair draped over her shoulders and caused people to feel that the black strands and the snowy skin were beautiful in contrast.

Glancing at Yan Jin Qiu who stood expressionless next to her, Hua Xi Wan raised her chin slightly. “Raise your head.”

Fine brows, long and narrow eyes, an exquisite face; adding on that snowy skin, this was a rare beauty. Of course, this would be if the person standing in front of her was someone else and not Hua Xi Wan.

Sometimes, beauty could only be seen in comparison. No matter how beautiful this servant girl was, or how white her skin was, in front of Hua Xi Wan, she was dim. It was the same as a peacock that was just a little plain bird next to a phoenix.

“Such a beautiful girl.” Hua Xi Wan laughed lightly and then turned her head to say to Hong Ying behind her. “I think she is more beautiful than you are.”

Hong Ying and Bai Xia had faithfully protected their mistress and had been praised by the Empress Dowager. So after they recovered, they had high status among the servants of the fu. The other stewards were courteous in front of them and didn’t dare to offend the two.

Hua Xi Wan’s teasing words clearly showed how highly she viewed Hong Ying. Hong Ying responded with a smile, “Being able to serve Wang Fei is this servant’s greatest honor. With a mistress as good as Wang Fei, beauty is not important.” Finishing, she walked forward and used her inger to hold up the green-robed servant girl’s chin. She examined the other carefully and then said, “This servant only feels that this beauty is average; only her skin color is slightly acceptable.”

“You serve Wang Fei, you are used to Wang Fei’s appearance, and when you look at anyone else, it is natural for you think that they are all average.” At the side, Zi Shan covered her mouth as she said with a smile, “If you stare into the mirror, you will even dislike your own face.”

The servant girls who served Hua Xi Wan laughed lightly as though they were all laughing at Hong Ying. However, the expression of the greenrobed servant girl who was kneeling on the ground was ashen. She felt as though she had no face, and they had stripped her of her clothing as she was being laughed at. However, when she had taken this step, she had thought that there would be a possibility of something like this. The more arrogant Wang Fei was, the more pitiful she would seem. She could endure this bit of humiliation.

They were all women. Hong Ying and Zi Shan could see this greenrobed servant girl had other intentions. The two of them exchanged a look, and Hong Ying bent down to help the green-robed servant girl up.

Then she said, “We are just joking, don’t take it seriously. It’s ine if the teacups were smashed—just be more careful next time.”

Zi Shan beckoned and two third-rank servant girls came forward to pick up the pieces of porcelain. Someone also came with a rag to wipe away the ine shards on the ground. In a lash, everything on the ground was cleaned up.

The green-robed servant girl felt hate rise up. Wang Fei’s personal servant girls were so cunning. They were clearly laughing at her, but still acted as though they were honest and generous. Wasn’t this acting for Wang Ye?

“Seeing benwang and Wang Fei touring the yard, you do not know to move aside. This really is not according to etiquette—how has the steward for the tea room taught you?” Yan Jin Qiu had lived in the imperial palace when he was young and was used to seeing the moves of the concubines. When he had been living in the wang fu in his childhood, he had also seen the concubines ighting for favor. Therefore, he had seen at irst glance what the green-robed servant girl intended and said, fed up, “The tea room steward is to have ifteen blows, and is demoted, with his duties to be taken over by the vice steward. As for you…”

The green-robed servant girl felt her heart go cold. She had only thought about enraging Wang Fei and having Wang Ye notice her, but hadn’t thought about what would happen to her if Wang Ye was dissatis ied with her.

DIdn’t they say that the Empress Dowager was dissatis ied with Wang Fei? Didn’t they say that Wang Ye would distance himself from Wang Fei because of the Empress Dowager and would even take a concubine? Why was Wang Ye still protecting Wang Fei like this? Even before Wang Fei had spoken, he started to speak for her?

“Wang Ye…” Before the green-robed servant girl could plead for mercy, two female manual labor servants came to stuff her mouth. She wanted to push away the servant women’s hands, but found that these older women were extremely strong and she couldn’t make a sound.

“Such an ill-mannered person disrupting our time.” Yan Jin Qiu felt hate. He had just managed to make his wang fei happy, but they had been interrupted by this horrid servant girl. It would be strange if he was in a good mood. “Since she cannot ful ill her duties of bringing tea, then have her sentenced to twenty blows, two days without food, and then she is to work in the laundry room.”

The green-robed servant girl violently shook her head, and even looked hopefully at Wang Fei in hopes that she could plead for mercy on her behalf. However, she only saw Wang Fei’s faint smile. Until she was pulled away by the servants, she didn’t see Wang Fei say even a word.

“If the wang fu has more of this kind of people, immediately bestow twenty blows and then kick them out. Benwang feels irritated seeing them,” Yan Jin Qiu said to Mu Tong. “There’s no need for Wang Fei to carry out such a minor matter; you can do this.”

“Yes.” Mu Tong bowed his head respectfully.

After everything was done, Hua Xi Wan slowly said, “The steward from the tea room is capable. This time, he might have slipped up and someone managed to make it through. The punishment of taking his position away is quite severe—how about making him a vice steward?” She touched the tassel in her hair of a bird holding a pearl in its beak. She said with a faint smile, “The laundry room coincidentally lacks a vice steward at the moment. Let him go ill that position.”

How could she let other people look at something of hers? Since the other dared to reach out, then they should be prepared to have their hand chopped off.

Yan Jin Qiu smiled when he heard this and said, “You are right; it should be done like this.” His wang fei did care for him. He immediately felt good.

Mu Tong silently buried his head lower. Wang Fei’s action was really vicious. That steward had just lost his position as steward because of this servant girl. Now, he was moved to the laundry room to be a vice steward. What outcome would await the servant girl who had just been demoted to the laundry room?

It could be seen that while Wang Fei was gentle and approachable usually, she was not someone whom one could afford to offend. This green-robed servant girl was the example.

As he saw it, these servant girls who had other thoughts were just seeking their own deaths. They should think about what kind of person Wang Fei was, and what they were. In terms of personality, beauty, and status—in which area could they compete? Also, his master just liked a woman like Wang Fei, could others compare?

In any case, in Wang Ye’s eyes, when Wang Fei kicked the fake mountain, that was called being valiant; Wang Fei liking to nap and sleep, that was being relaxed; Wang Fei liking to listen to the gossip in Jing, that was called passing the time; Wang Fei liking to eat good food, that was called experiencing life. If other women did this, it was being crude, lazy, meddling, and greedy.

Even if Wang Fei had countless shortcomings, she had her own skill in getting Wang Ye to like everything about her, protect her all the time, and let her have her way on every matter.

Even Wang Ye had changed many of his living habits following Wang Fei. If other people still had intentions, it was likely that the one angered irst would not be Wang Fei, but Wang Ye.

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Chapter Eighty: Close and Distant

Because of the example of the green-robed servant girl, all of the wang fu settled down greatly. Adding on that, the Empress Dowager bestowed down many rare and precious items, along with a verbal decree that Xian Wang Fei was virtuous and intelligent. It was as though she hadn’t implied for Wang Fei to have a child as early as possible.

The actions of the Empress Dowager clearly represented her reaching out to Hua Xi Wan, and also expressed the idea that she did not have any intentions of forcing Xian Wang to take a concubine. Xian Wang Fei was very good, she was satis ied, and other people should not speculate.

No one knew what the Empress Dowager was doing until someone suddenly recalled that Xian Wang had gone to the Empress Dowager’s palace a day ago and stayed in there for a considerable amount of time. Then they realized—this matter most likely was not that the Empress Dowager had thought it through but that Xian Wang had gone to beg the Empress Dowager.

The women of Jing all praised Xian Wang’s actions, and even the womenfolk who only thought he had surface beauty felt that he was pretty good. Most of the women in the world who were normal would admire a man who loved his wife. So without knowing it, Yan Jin Qiu received from the women a reputation of being a good man.

Having seen too many stupidly ilial men who sacri iced their woman’s happiness, people felt that Xian Wang was a rare example. There were women who praised Yan Jin Qiu, and there were women who envied Hua Xi Wan. There were also some men who found that their recent days were not very smooth because they had this example drop on them out of nowhere.

In the Third Master Hua’s compound, the marriage of Hua Chu Yu with the master of the Lin Family was inalized and set for the end of fall. Even though there was still half a year, the fu prepared a great amount of dowry for her. But Yao shi still constantly toiled and had the servants collect rare items. She seemed to want to give Hua Chu Yu as dowry everything that was good.

The Third Master Hua was not a very signi icant personage in Jing, but his family had the marquis fu as support, as well as a Xian Wang Fei who was deeply loved by Xian Wang. So even though the Third Master Hua did not have any real power, the servants who were sent to the stores for purchases received a lot of face.

Today, the servant was going to collect a box of pearls for which the deposit had been paid, but in the end, the servant from Princess Rui He’s fu had forcibly bought it. The servant from the Third Master Hua’s fu didn’t have a solution and could only return with empty hands to Yao shi.

After Yao shi heard the process of the matter, she swore hatefully, “A widow who just had her husband die dares to be so arrogant. I want to see how long she can do this.”

“Mother.” Hua Chu Yu hurriedly stopped Yao shi from talking and comforted her. “It is just some pearls, nothing rare. There is no harm in not having them.”

“Silly girl, I want to make a pearl robe for your dowry. Princess Rui He does not want any face, and is stealing boldly from our fu.” Yao shi was discontent, but she knew that Princess Rui He’s personality was a strong one. Most people could only allow her to take what she wanted. The reason why the purchases that her family made

in the recent days had gone so smoothly was mostly due to the marquis fuand Xian Wang Fu. Otherwise, even if they had the silver, they wouldn’t have been able to purchase such good objects.

Thinking about Hua Xi Wan, Yao shi asked somewhat unnaturally, “Are you still in contact with the one in Wang Fu? A few days ago, there were rumors that the Empress Dowager was discontent with her—is that true?”

“Xian Wang is in true love with Meimei. As long as Xian Wang doesn’t desire it, there is nothing that will happen to her.” Hua Chu Yu thought of the rumor from yesterday that said there had been a servant in the wang fu who wanted to seduce Xian Wang. In the end, she had been sent by Xian Wang to the laundry room, and even the steward had been punished. She said, “You do not need to worry about Third Sister; she is living well in the wang fu.”

“Who is concerned about her?” Yao shi coughed awkwardly. “She is the di miss of the marquis fu, and a wang fei. Does she need us people from common families to worry about her?”

Hua Chu Yu laughed. She understood her mother’s sharp mouth and soft heart. She changed the topic and said, “I heard that there was a minor con lict on Second Uncle’s fu. Last time at Grandmother’s, I saw that Eldest Sister looked fragile and thought that maybe we should have her at the fu for a short stay…”

Before she inished speaking, Yao shi interrupted her. Yao shi said with a dark expression, “You are a girl preparing for marriage; it is inauspicious for you to have her stay in the fu.” Yao shi paused and was worried that her words would make her seem heartless. She sighed and said, “It is not that I am heartless, but I really do not like Eldest Miss’ personality. Recently, her personality has become even darker. I’m afraid that she will go crazy and hurt you one day. Your brother’s personality is like that of the shizi from the eldest branch, and he doesn’t need my concern. Whereas you might look smart, but you care too much. How can I not worry?”

Hua Chu Yu was silent. She had just casually mentioned the matter and hadn’t expected Mother to give such a speech. In reality, among the three cousin-sisters, she was closer to Hua Xi Wan. From a young age, she had found that Eldest Sister’s personality was slightly introverted and sensitive, but she also wanted to be the best. It was not as interesting and relaxed being with Eldest Sister as being with Third Sister. It was not that she cared too much, but when she saw how fragile Eldest Sister looked, she was worried that something would happen to her.

“Mother, your words…” Hua Chu Yu hesitated. “Eldest Sister is slightly sensitive, but she is not that… extreme.”

“How old are you?” Yao shi laughed lightly. “I’ve seen people like Eldest Miss before. Not just me, even that female tiger from the eldest branch doesn’t like her very much. Didn’t you see that when Third Miss came back to visit the paternal home, that female tiger didn’t like to call Eldest Miss over to talk to Third Miss? Whenever she invites you, what is her excuse?”

Hua Chu Yu inally recalled that, when Third Sister had returned to the marquis futhe last few times and she had gone over to talk, she had never seen Eldest Sister. She inally realized—so Eldest Aunt disliked Eldest Sister so much now. But when Third Sister had returned to the marquis fu last winter, it had been ine.

Seeing her puzzlement, Yao shi could only restate it more baldly. “That female tiger might not have any good qualities, but she is not a smallminded person. As long as one doesn’t touch her children, she will close her eyes to the other minor matters. But if one dares to target her three children, she will ight to the death.”

When Hua Chu Yu thought of this, she thought, Mother liked to verbally win against Eldest Aunt—was it because she had a grasp of Eldest Aunt’s personality?

“Last winter when Third Miss came to the fu, did you notice how Eldest Miss looked at Xian Wang?” Yao shi lowered her voice and said

mysteriously, “That girl doesn’t have proper thoughts.”

Hua Chu Yu felt a cold sweat. Did Eldest Miss have such thoughts about Xian Wang? But Xian Wang was Third Sister’s husband—how could she think about something that was impossible?

“It would have been ine if it was just that. When Third Miss came to the fu at the end of the year, did you see what Eldest Miss was wearing? Tsk tsk, she had great self-pity. Tell me, who does she want to seduce looking like that?” Yao shi snorted disdainfully. “Zhang shi, she says that she’s from a scholarly family, but look at what she really is, and what the daughter she raised is. Wanting to seduce your brother-in-law—I feel embarrassed for her.”

Yao shi would admit that she wasn’t a virtuous and generous person. She looked down on Zhang shi pretending to be high and virtuous while acting in such a disgusting fashion. At least, she herself would never sell her daughter for glory. And her daughter wouldn’t target her brotherin-law.

“Just those looks of hers and she thinks to seduce Xian Wang. She should look in the mirror and see which part of her can compare to Third Miss.”

Yao shi’s words were crude but truthful. Hua Chu Yu was not a person who could not separate right from wrong. After hearing this, she decided to stay further away from Hua Yi Liu. Not for anything else, but because Hua Yi Liu had thoughts she shouldn’t have.

Even leaving aside how deeply in love Third Sister and Xian Wang were, Third Sister had helped Eldest Sister escape. Eldest Miss shouldn’t have such thoughts. She looked down on this kind of people. Their way of conduct was not the same.

In Xian Wang Fu, Hua Xi Wan picked out some brightly-colored precious stones from her private stores, and had Bai Xia and Hong Ying organize them before picking out a portion of them.

“Have a servant send this to Third Uncle’s fu. Second Sister is getting married at the end of autumn. It is perfect for her to have these as part of her dowry. If this is delayed, then it will be too late.” When Hua Yi Liu had married, she had also added to the dowry, so when Hua Chu Yu was going to be married, she could only give a share equal to that of Hua Yi Liu. But she was closer to Hua Chu Yu, and it was normal for her to send some more in secret.

There were close and distant relationships between people. She treated Hua Yi Liu like they were cousins, and treated Hua Chu Yu like they were good sisters.

“Wang Fei, do not worry; the items have been organized. Later, I and two servants will go to deliver this to Second Miss.” Bai Xia smiled as she put a box of rubies into the pile to be given away, and then put the list in front of Hua Xi Wan. “Please look and see if there is anything missing.”

Hua Xi Wan carefully inspected it and said after thinking, “Didn’t Mu Tong have someone deliver a box of pearls? I saw their color was good. Send them to Second Sister. If they are stored for a long time, their color will not be good. Second Sister’s skin is ine and beautiful when she wears pearls.”

Hong Ying went into the private stores and took out a full box of pearls before Hua Xi Wan was satis ied.

When Yan Jin Qiu walked into the room, he saw the table was illed with all kinds of precious stones and pearls. He smiled and said, “What are you doing—preparing to have new jewelry made?” A few days ago, she had been saying that there was too much jewelry and it was blinding to her eyes. How come she now had the interest in iddling with these things today?

Hua Xi Wan pulled him to sit down next to her and told him the reason. She pointed at the list and said, “If Second Aunt knew, would she make a fuss?”

“When you hellped her daughter out of that predicament, did she say a word of thanks?” After merging all the reasons, Yan Jin Qiu didn’t have any good feelings about Zhang shi at all. So he was happy to see that Hua Xi Wan was distancing herself from Zhang shi. Originally, he had been worried that, because Father-in-law and the second Master Hua were full-blooded brothers, Hua Xi Wan would be closer to Zhang shi. Now it seemed that he had worried for nothing.

“Who cares if she fusses? The things are yours, and it is your freedom to give them to whomever you want.” Yan Jin Qiu did not have any misgivings at all. “Do not worry about this. After you organize this, I will have Mu Tong deliver it tomorrow. I want to see who dares to speak.”

Hua Xi Wan: “…”

Even the most cunning man was crude and simple when dealing with affairs of the inner compound.

However, she liked that quality.

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Chapter Eighty-One: Truth and Lies

The next day, Mu Tong delivered the things to the fu of the Third Master Hua in the morning. He received a bout of grateful speech as well as a pair of slippers personally embroidered by Second Miss Hua for Hua Xi Wan. The slippers were covered with ine brocade and embroidered with beautiful lower patterns. Even though Mu Tong had seen much inery, he had to admit that this pair was really beautiful and the person who had made them had used great effort.

After returning to the wang fu, Mu Tong narrated what had occurred at the Third Master Hua’s fu and also presented the embroidered slippers that Hua Chu Yu had made for Hua Xi Wan.

“Such beautiful slippers.” Hua Xi Wan opened the box and spoke with a smile. “Even at this time, Second Sister still thinks of making a pair of beautiful slippers for me.”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu smiled and said, “From your words, it seems that it isn’t the irst pair that your Second Sister has made for you?”

“Second Sister’s embroidery is very good, whereas I was never interested in those things from a very young age. So whenever she had the free time, Second Sister would make clothing and slippers for me. But now she is about to be married and still thinks of me.” Hua Xi Wan held the slippers and thought of how Hua Chu Yu had treated her like a full-blooded sister ever since she had saved Hua Chu Yu from the pond. After so many years, this was still the case.

Yan Jin Qiu nodded. It was not good for him to have more opinions about the womenfolk of the Hua Family, but he still noted who was sincere towards Hua Xi Wan and who was not. “Her treating you like this does not fail how much you think of her.”

Hua Xi Wan laughed. Yan Jin Qiu’s words were biased and considered just from her point of view. But she understood. For Yan Jin Qiu, she was his wang fei. He would naturally use his own perspective to judge whether other people were good or not.

This was probably how all people were. She would not be so proud if Yan Jin Qiu was not good enough towards her family. She smiled helplessly and said, “One needs to use true emotion to protect the relationship between sisters. No one is willing to give true emotions and receive false ones. I have many years of sisterly affection with Second Sister and naturally want to reciprocate.”

“I heard that Second Sister has an engagement with the shizi of Marquis He Wen?” Yan Jin Qiu seemed to suddenly remember this and said, “He Wen Shizi could be considered to be someone sincere in Jing. It is a good choice for her to marry him.”

Hua Xi Wan looked suspiciously at Yan Jin Qiu. Were these words lies or sincere? The Marquis He Wen’s Lin Family was the paternal family of the Crown Princess. Wasn’t Yan Jin Qiu worried that Hua Chu Yu would marry into the Lin Family?

Her gaze was too direct, and Yan Jin Qiu saw her thoughts with a glance. He reached with an index inger to poke her forehead. “The Lin Family has been honest and true for many generations, and cares about the people. They are respected by the people. Lin Zheng De is young but accomplished. He has a pure and just mind. He isn’t a lusty person. A person like this is one who can match your second sister.”

Honest and true, cares about the people.

Young and accomplished, with a pure and just mind.

Hua Xi Wan recalled how much the Empress had disliked the Crown Princess and thought of a possibility. It was possible that the Lin Family was not satis ied with the Crown Prince’s conduct, so after the Crown Princess had married, the Lin Family was still on distant terms with the Crown Prince’s faction. That was why the Empress had such an attitude towards the Crown Princess.

She had originally been worried that the Lin Family would not be good towards Hua Chu Yu. But when she thought about it now, she realized that the Lin Family had been titled for generations. It could be considered a low match for the di shizi to marry Hua Chu Yu. There might be other reasons for the Lin Family asking for a marriage with Hua Chu Yu other than Hua Chu Yu herself.

Maybe they felt that Yan Jin Qiu was someone who did not have ambitions, so it was not major for them to establish a marital connection to the Hua Family. Or maybe they just felt that the Hua

Family was pretty good, and Hua Chu Yu was even better, so they wanted her. Or a more likely possibility… The Lin Family intended to get on the same team as Yan Jin Qiu.

The more she thought, the more complex it became. Hua Xi Wan was too lazy to keep thinking so she rubbed her forehead. “Since you say this person isn’t bad, then I will temporarily think the person isn’t so. If he dares to not be good to Second Sister in the future, I will use your status and take people to make a fuss at their door.”

“Good.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled and accepted. Then he had the servants get food, and the two washed their hands to prepare for the noon meal.

However, just as the food just was laid on the table, and before the two had picked up their chopsticks, they heard a shocking piece of news. The paternal family of the Empress, the Fang Family, was being surrounded by the Imperial Guard.

Ever since the Crown Prince had died, the Fang Family became low-key. What great crime had they committed to be surrounded by the Imperial Guard now? The Imperial Guard was akin to the personal guard of the Emperor. When major of icials committed crimes, it was usually the Guard Of ice that came to arrest them, and the Judicial Of ice or the Ministry of Rites that investigated the case. Having the Imperial Guard taking over the job of the Guard Of ice was something to speculate about.

Hua Xi Wan was not puzzled for long. Half an hour later, the news from the palace silently spread.

“The Empress tried to poison the Crown Princess and failed?” Hua Xi Wan looked in shock at Mu Tong and was disbelieving. The Empress was someone who was very skilled at enduring and scheming. How could she do such an impulsive thing right now?

Yan Jin Qiu was also surprised. He stilled slightly and then asked, “Is the news correct?”

Mu Tong responded, “According to our people in the palace, the Emperor is very angry about this and wants to depose the Empress. The Emperor and Empress argued, and then the Emperor ordered the Imperial Guard to surround the Fang Family. The reason was that he suspected the Fang Family and the Empress plotted to poison the Crown Princess and the child inside the Crown Princess.”

“Is the Emperor using the Fang Family to threaten the Empress?” Hua Xi Wan thought of the child inside the Crown Princess and the passing away of the Crown Prince. Without a son, the Empress did not have any future hopes. There was a possibility that a lot of her calmness had gone away and what was left was madness. The Emperor had the Imperial Guard surround the Fang Family just so that the Empress would not speak what should not be spoken.

When she thought of this, Hua Xi Wan felt disgusted. Originally, she had felt that the Crown Prince wasn’t good, but now, it seemed the Emperor

was the worst scum. The Crown Prince had just inherited that style and hadn’t reached the bottom, so he had died.

Yan Jin Qiu could think along the same lines that Hua Xi Wan did, but he thought even more than Hua Xi Wan. “Do not have our people move. Wait and see.” Who knew if this was true or if it was the Emperor and Empress acting to lure the ish out?

A woman like the Empress would be more likely to remove the mother and keep the child. She would raise the Crown Princess’ child and then become the honored Grand Empress Dowager rather than do something this impulsive. Also, the news was something that the people in the palace had heard, and many outside the palace did not know of this, much less guess that the Empress would think of killing the Crown Princess’ child.

In the eyes of the world, the Empress should anticipate the birth of this child more than the Emperor. Therefore, they would only think that the Fang Family had done something, not that the Empress had done something. In the eyes of the people of Jing, the Fang Family was an arrogant imperial relative, and it was normal for them to do something that the Emperor was unhappy with.

There would only be three types of people who could guess that the Empress would want to poison the Crown Princess. One was the kind who had ambitions and spied on the inner palace; the second was those who knew it was dif icult for the Crown Prince to have children. The second kind was also split into two kinds. One was those who knew the inner palace, and one was those who could have schemed against the Crown Prince so he became infertile. The third kind was those who

knew the Crown Princess’ unborn child was not the Crown Prince’s child, but the Emperor’s child.

No matter which type took the bait, the Emperor would not be willing to have them go on living. Because in this world, only dead people could keep their mouths closed.

Hua Xi Wan saw that Yan Jin Qiu’s expression was not right and guessed the matter was even more complex than she thought. She immediately felt a wave of drowsiness. So after managing to drink a bowl of soup and walking a few circles in the room, she abandoned Yan Jin Qiu who had a deep expression and went back to her room to sleep.

She was not suited to a very complex life. She did not want to overly use her mind and become prematurely old. It was better for her to have a beauty nap.

“Wang Ye, you think that this matter is trap?” Mu Tong was slightly surprised. He had not thought about this.

“No matter if this is a trap or not, it has nothing to do with us,” Yan Jin Qiu said sardonically. “I’m just an idle wang ye living idle days.”

Mu Tong immediately understood and bowed. “Wang Ye is wise.”

The Empress looked indifferently at the male sitting next to her. After drinking about three-tenths of her cup of tea, she inally spoke. “Emperor is so certain that people will jump out?”

“How could the people with ambitions bear to miss this good performance?” Qilong Emperor and the Empress increasingly did not have common topics of conversation. But seeing the Empress’ fragile expression, as though she had aged a few years in these short few months, he felt some guilt. “After the child is born, he will be raised by you. The Crown Princess will go to a monastery to pray for the Crown Prince and will not have to return to the palace unless there are important matters.”

“The Emperor is willing to bear it ?” The Empress raised her eyes to look at the Emperor without any emotion in her eyes.

“There is nothing to be unwilling about. That is your grandson, and zhen will be reassured if he is raised by you,” Qilong Emperor said calmly. “Even if the throne cannot be passed to the son, it can be passed to the grandson.”

The Empress’ expression shifted slightly, and she said after a moment of silence, “Qie understands, but when a woman is giving birth, that is akin to going through the gates of life and death, and it is hard to predict the outcome.”

Hearing this, the Emperor looked with a complex expression at the Empress. After pausing a moment, he said, “This will be determined by

the Heavens.”

“As long as the Emperor will not regret it in the future.” The Empress put down her cup and said with a tired expression, “Emperor, do not worry. Qie will take good care of the Crown Princess until… the imperial grandson is born.”

Qilong Emperor looked deeply at her. He put down the teacup and stood, saying, “Since that is so, zhen will not worry.”

Seeing him about to leave, the Empress stood and curtsied. “Emperor, farewell.”

The Emperor’s mouth which had just opened closed again. He looked at the Empress’ bowed head and then turned to walk out the door.

The Empress raised her head to look at his back without any emotion in her eyes. It was as though the man who was walking out was a stranger and had no connection to her.

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Chapter Eighty-Two: Presents

“Junwang Ye…” Hou shi stood at the Door of Drooping Flowers and looked at Yan Bo Yi who was smiling at a concubine. She pushed down the soreness she felt and forced herself to show a smile.

The concubine next to Yan Bo Yi curtsied when she saw Hou shi and moved to the side with a lowered head. She seemed exceptionally docile and well-mannered. But even the most docile and well-mannered concubine was, in Hou shi’s view, a woman who was displaying docility and trying to take her man from her. However, Hou shi was skilled in enduring, and even though she felt discontent inside, she did not show it on her face. She sedately walked in front of Yan Bo Yi and said in a gentle voice, “Pardon my intrusion of your pleasure.”

Seeing Hou shi, Yan Bo Yi’s smile disappeared. After having the concubine leave, he said, “I see that your complexion has not been well these days. The medicines that the grand doctors have prescribed are not of use.”

“Sickness leaves slowly, so how can recovery be so quick?” Hou shi smiled and didn’t care at all about her own illness. “After a few days, it will be the Empress’ birthday. Qie really doesn’t know what kind of birthday present to send into the palace. Junwang, what do you think?”

When the Empress was mentioned, Yan Bo Yi”s expression was not well. Thinking about his own plans, he said, “Two-tenths more than in

the past years, but avoid anything to do with pomegranates and grapes, so as to not remind the Empress.”

Pomegranates and grapes had the meaning of lots of children. But right now, the Empress did not have a son, and the child inside the Crown Princess was not the Crown Prince’s. Wouldn’t sending in those things increase the Empress’ displeasure? He could guess that the child inside the Crown Princess was the Emperor’s, and so could the Empress. If he could team up with the Empress, it would be good for him. If he could not, at least, the Empress might have a good opinion of him.

“Qie understands,” Hou shi responded. After the two of them said this, they didn’t have anything else to talk about.

As the mood cooled, Yan Bo Yi suddenly spoke. “I heard that Xian Wang Fei does not like to manage affairs, so she may not know what is most appropriate to give to the Empress for a birthday present. If you have the free time, you can chat with her. That will be of great help to her.”

“You mean…” Hou shi’s expression changed slightly. After a long pause, she said, “Xian Wang Fei doesn’t like to attend to matters, but she is not stupid. I’m afraid that she will not believe what I say.”

“If she isn’t willing to believe, think of a way to get her to believe.” Yan Bo Yi’s tone carried unconscious disdain. “She’s just a woman, and spoiled by Yan Jin Qiu—what can she do?”

Hou shi heard the mockery in Yan Bo Yi’s voice. Her gaze was complex when she responded.

Two days later, Hou shi was copying the Book of Dao when she saw her personal servant girl come in. She put down the brush in her hand and said in a calm tone, “What is the progress on the matter?”

“Mistress, do not worry. Today, the procurer from Xian Wang Fu purchased that jade statue of the immortal goddess holding the pomegranate. I heard that Xian Wang Fei is very satis ied with it and has already added it to the list of presents.”

Hou shi nodded and sighed. Hua shi might be intelligent, but in the end, she had been spoiled by Xian Wang.

In Xian Wang Fu, Hua Xi Wan played with the immortal goddess and pomegranate jade statue that Hou shi talked about. She sighed. “Such good skill—even the wrinkles on the goddess’ robe can be seen clearly. I just don’t know if it will be smashed after it is delivered to the Empress’ palace. It is such a pity.”

“If you like it, then keep it. We can ind another one that has the same meaning to replace it,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a smile. “I have in my stores a jade statue of an immortal goddess throwing lowers. Later, I will have the servants deliver it to you to play with.”

“I just like to see the novelty of these things, not play with them.” Hua Xi Wan put down the jade statue. With a hand propping her cheek, she said to Yan Jin Qiu, “Since we need the other to believe that we took the bait, we have to be professional.”

Yan Bo Yi’s move was malicious and cunning, but he had missed one thing. If one was thinking rationally, if a woman didn’t have her son, and her grandson was about to be born, a woman who wanted her son to have a descendant would pray every day for this grandson to come out safely and healthy. Their Xian Wang Fu would cause the Empress displeasure because they had such a jade statue among the gifts, but this would be enough for the Emperor and Empress to believe that they did not know the child inside the Crown Princess was not the Crown Prince’s. They would not know that the Empress disliked the child inside the Crown Princess and was just enduring it.

Otherwise, if the Empress knew that the child inside the Crown Princess was not the Crown Prince’s, how could she tolerate it? Only if the father of the child was someone she could not offend.

The Empress was above thousands of people and below just one, the mother of the people. Which kind of person could cuckold her son yet she did not dare to voice it?

These questions that could not be thought about were something that Xian Wang, someone who only studied poetry and drawing, would not think about. She, the Xian Wang Fei who did not like managing matters, would be even more ignorant. Therefore, it was normal for there to be a jade statue among the gifts, to wish the child inside the Crown Princess well.

It was better to invoke dislike than hatred.

The imperial clan had several funerals this year. Even though there was no rationale for those senior to observe mourning for those younger than them, the Empress’ birthday was much more low-key compared to previous years. The Fang Family that had been guarded by the Imperial Guard was inally let out of their fu for the Empress’ birthday, but the guards did not leave and still stood at the gates of the Fang Fu.

The lists of presents from various places were continuously delivered into the Empress’ palace. These lists were mostly sparser than in past years. The Empress laughed coldly on the inside and put these lists that were sparser than those in the past to one side. Then she picked up several other lists and made a closer examination.

When she saw there was a jade statue on the list from Xian Wang Fu called the Ninth Heaven Mystical Goddess Holding Pomegranates of Happiness, her expression darkened. She took a few deep breaths before she slammed the list onto the desk. She said with a cold laugh, “Such a good Xian Wang Fu—are they laughing at ben gong for not having a son?”

The servant who had served her for many years looked at the palace attendants and taijian who had knelt in fear and said after hesitating, “Niangniang, this servant thinks that the wang fu will not be so daring. This jade statue has auspicious meaning. Maybe… maybe it is for the imperial grandson.”

“Imperial grandson…” The Empress paused slightly, and hate could be discerned from her eyes. A beat later, she sighed. “All right, what does a young girl know of ben gong’s matters?”

The servant agreed. “This Xian Wang Fei has been spoiled by Xian Wang too much. She doesn’t even know what niangniang likes; she really is daring.”

“It’s all right, all right; she is very young. When ben gong was her age, ben gong was innocent too.” She had once been innocent, but the environment taught her that kindness and innocence were the things that the inner palace could not tolerate. It was the good fortune of a woman if she could be kind for her whole life. But if they could not, then it was better to make themselves invincible to all poison. Otherwise, the one who ended up wounded would be oneself.

Hearing this, the servant perceptively stopped speaking when she saw the Empress reach for the list from Sheng Junwang Fu.

Just like Xian Wang Fu, Sheng Junwang Fu’s gifts were even more than in the past year, and great care had been taken with the presents. They had deliberately avoided things that could displease the Empress. No wonder Sheng Junwang Fei had such a virtuous reputation; she was much better than Xian Wang Fei. In her view, other than Xian Wang Fei’s appearance that was better than Sheng Junwang Fei’s, there was nothing at which Xian Wang Fei was better than Sheng Junwang Fei.

It was a pity that all the men in the world liked beauty. Even if a beauty was stupid, she was still a treasure in the eyes of men. Didn’t Sheng Junwang take a few concubines even with such a virtuous and able Sheng Junwang Fei?

“The people of Sheng Junwang Fu really have good thoughts.” The Empress’ hand was white where she gripped the paper, her eyes murderous. “Ben gong underestimated them.”

She lightly put the list onto the table. The Empress had no interest to keep looking at these lists and said as she rubbed the corners of her eyes, “Help ben gong back to the room to rest. Ben gong is tired.”

The servant did not understand why the Empress’ mood was not right, but seeing the Empress’ pale face, she did not dare to ask. She carefully helped the Empress walk back into the inner rooms.

After the Empress slept, the servant lightly came out of the room. She felt some hatred towards the prestigious families that were dismissing the Empress and weren’t even willing to pretend otherwise. Not only were the birthday gifts not as carefully thought out as in past years, they had even decreased in number.

Even if niangniang did not have the Crown Prince, she was still the Empress. How did these people dare?!

The day of the Empress’ birthday, the Ministry of Rights and the Department of Internal Affairs set up a banquet in the Chao Yang Hall, but only at seven-tenths of the stature of previous years. From how the tables and chairs were set up, to things as minor as what lamps were used in the evening banquet, all of these were strictly laid out in rules. It was a great crime to go over or below.

There was still more than an hour before the birthday banquet would begin, and the nobility that were quali ied to attend started to arrive. The irst ones who came were imperial clan members without much status, or prestigious families that had declined. The more powerful and noble would arrive later.

Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu did not arrive early, but they could not be said to be late. They arrived almost at the exact same time as Ning Wang’s family. Ever since the Crown Prince had died, Ning Wang had called in sick and not gone to court. He didn’t see outside guests and was very low-key. The public reason was that he was ill from the pain of the Crown Prince’s passing, but in Hua Xi Wan view, this old man was just hoping the new emperor would not remember him and take revenge. As for grieving over the Crown Prince’s passing… maybe he was grieving. He had supported such a sad being for over two decades, and then the scum had pulled the inner palace along and ended himself. This was like playing through a dungeon, and even though the teammate was stupid, they almost succeeded in killing the big boss. But at the most crucial moment, the teammate had gone of line and you were kicked out of the dungeon… Thinking about this, she felt bad on behalf of Ning Wang. She really didn’t know what Ning Wang had been thinking in the past to have supported the Crown Prince. Now he ended up like this.

“The weather has been changing recently. Uncle, please take better care of your health.” Yan Jin Qiu bowed elegantly towards Ning Wang, his actions containing the respect of a junior towards his elder.

“Virtuous Nephew is too courteous.” Ning Wang reached out in a motion to help Yan Jin Qiu up and then isted his hand at the corner of his mouth to cough. He stood. “My body hasn’t been well recently; Virtuous Nephew must have worried.”

“It is a matter of joy for Nephew that Uncle is healthy.”

Hua Xi Wan listened to the pair of uncle and nephew being lovey-dovey together and silently moved her gaze away.

These two were both Oscar winners.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Eighty-Three: Moves

Ning Wang and Yan Jin Qiu exchanged courtesies before they entered Chao Yang Hall one after the other. Those who were mindful saw this and couldn’t help but think, did this Ning Wang want to push Xian Wang to the throne? But looking at Xian Wang, he didn’t seem to want to accept Ning Wang’s favor?

There were those who then took a look at Sheng Junwang’s expression. This person had the same expression as usual, a straight face, and they found it boring. The younger people who were usually lectured by their elders and compared to Yan Bo Yi always felt terrible when they saw Yan Bo Yi’s serious face.

Some young people were the “other children” whom elders liked to mention. If they got a say, this Yan Bo Yi was a fake gentleman. He was said to respect his wife, but there were many concubines in his fu. They didn’t know how he wasn’t embarrassed to be praised so.

After the people were seated, a taijian came to clap and open the way. Everyone stood up again to welcome the Emperor and Empress.

The Empress walked next to the Emperor dressed in a dress of the hundred birds paying respect to the phoenix. Hua Xi Wan saw that every one of her steps was steady and that the phoenix gold hairpins in her hair swayed rhythmically yet the sway was almost the same with every step.

“Rise.”

After the Emperor and Empress were seated, they stood up. Hua Xi Wan listened to an of icial of the Ministry of Rites recite a birthday speech that the Emperor had written for the Empress. The general meaning was the Empress was good, the Empress was wonderful, the Empress was virtuous.

After the speech, the Emperor and Empress sent up three cups of wine in tribute to the heaven and earth. Then they drank a cup to each other before everyone toasted them. After a whole bout of ceremony, they could inally sit on their seats to drink, eat and watch performances. However, they had to pay attention to their manners.

Hua Xi Wan used her handkerchief to cover her mouth and said in a small voice by Yan Jin Qiu’s ear, “How come the Empress Dowager did not come today?”

Yan Jin Qiu picked up a pickled duck tongue for her with a calm expression. “The Empress Dowager is not feeling well and is resting in the palace.”

Hearing this, Hua Xi Wan became silent. In past years, even if the Empress Dowager did not feel well, she would still show herself at the Empress’ birthday feast before leaving. Hua Xi Wan hadn’t expected the Empress Dowager to not even attend this time. She hadn’t heard any news that the Empress Dowager had been unwell before this. This… the

Empress Dowager was purposefully humiliating the Empress. A few days ago, the Emperor had the Imperial Guard surround the Fang Family, and now he had written a speech for her before reciting it in front of so many people. Their lovey-dovey really wasn’t wellconcealed.

However, were the Emperor and Empress really so much in love or just pretending for other people?

There was nothing good about this banquet. Hua Xi Wan was too lazy to watch the Emperor and Empress act. She leaned against Yan Jin Qiu to use him as concealment and avoided having to talk. Just as the banquet was about to inish, something happened.

Originally, while the banquet had been slightly fake, it had appeared well on the surface. But if a taijian suddenly fainted and died at the banquet, then it was not good.

Even though the taijian’s corpse had been quickly carried out, it was not an auspicious omen for such a thing to occur on the Empress’s birthday. Also, who died suddenly and without cause? Was this a warning from the heavens?

Hua Xi Wan had heard of a situation like this in her past life. The doctor said that this was due to a problem of the blood vessels in the brain and heart. But the people here did not know, so it was easier for them to categorize it as something supernatural.

The one who felt that this was the worst thing to occur was probably the Empress. Even though Hua Xi Wan could not see much emotion on the Empress’s face, as a woman, Hua Xi Wan was sure that the Empress was feeling displeased now.

Princess Rui He walked out of Chao Yang Hall with a dark expression because the taijian who just died had been serving her. It would be hard for anyone who encountered such a situation where a person suddenly fell down and died. The servants behind her had their heads by their shoulders and were afraid that she would vent her temper on them.

“Don’t you ind this suspicious? Why was it the taijian who served Princess Rui He that died suddenly?”

“Is it retribution? Did you hear that rumor?”

“Which one?”

“Rui He Fuma died without justice, and Princess Rui He possibly…”

The day after the banquet, rumors spread outside. The general meaning was that Rui He Fuma had died unjustly and was taking revenge on Princess Rui He.

When Hua Xi Wan heard these rumors, she was speechless. Regardless of whether it had been the princess who killed Rui He Fuma, even if she did, the person on whom he would exact vengeance was Princess Rui He. What was the use in killing a taijian?

Not two days later, the rumors changed. The general meaning was that this was a warning against the Empress. The heavens were discontent with the Empress, therefore such an unfortunate matter occurred at her birthday banquet.

Then there were of icials who accused the Empress’ paternal family of disgraceful conduct, and considering the warning from the heavens, the Empress did not have the virtues to be the empress.

In a few short days, a very simple matter suddenly became related to the matter of deposing the Empress. Hua Xi Wan felt that, without a mastermind, how could it develop so?

She was not the only one. Even Yan Jin Qiu hadn’t thought that it would develop like this. After he discussed it with his advisors, there was no result, but he decided not to act.

For him, a sonless empress was better than an empress who might have a child and was favored. If Empress Fang was deposed, the Emperor would de initely marry a new empress. That would not be good.

At night after he and Hua Xi Wan ate together, and the two were chatting inside their comfortable blankets, Hua Xi Wan said, “I heard that many people were asking the Emperor to depose the Empress. Is that true?”

Yan Jin Qiu nodded.

“Is it the Emperor who wants to depose the Empress?” Hua Xi Wan frowned. “If the Emperor did not think this, he would have pushed the matter down when the irst of icial spoke up. Why would he allow this matter to develop?”

Yan Jin Qiu laughed lightly. “Who knows—maybe.”

In Zhu Que Palace, the Empress and the Crown Princess sat facing each other. Because her pregnancy had progressed, the swelling of the Crown Princess’ belly had grown. The Crown Princess who had always been careful and timid in front of the Empress started to become casual.

“Why has Mother Emperor come to ind this subject?” The Crown Princess was holding a small article of clothing in her hand as she looked with a smile at the Empress. “What do you think of this clothing?”

The Empress said with a cold smile, “What did you do?”

“Mother-Empress, what are you saying? What did this subject do?” The Crown Princess smiled brightly, and her index inger moved on the cloth. “This subject doesn’t understand what you are saying.”

“Only you know if you understand or not,” the Empress said with a cold smile. “You are too young to ight against me!”

“Haha.” The Crown Princess covered the smile on her face and laughed. She laughed until the Empress’ expression turned impatient before she stopped. “This is so wondrous. You want to keep the child and eliminate the mother—am I not allowed to ight back?”

In the eyes of other people, the Emperor and Empress were the most noble couple in the world, but in her eyes, they were the most disgusting pair. One had taken her innocence while she had been drunk, and another treated her like she was something to be molded. Even if she was something pliable, she still had her personality.

She had not lived enough; she did not want to die.

“Good, very good.” Hearing this, the Empress said gravely, “I want to see what you can do!” After saying this, the Empress turned to leave.

The Crown Princess covered her stomach and suddenly shouted in pain, “Someone come, come!”

To deal with the Empress, she didn’t need to use any skill.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Eight-Four: Catching Fish in Muddy Waters

After the Empress had gone to Zhu Que Palace, the Crown Princess had seen red. Thankfully, the grand doctors had arrived in time and the baby was kept. However, the Crown Princess had to go on bedrest for a few days to prevent bleeding again.

The rumors about the Empress were already wild in Jing, and with this incident of the Crown Princess bleeding, everyone’s discussions became even more heated. How could there be such a coincidence in this world? The Empress just went to visit the Crown Princess, and the Crown Princess started bleeding?

Who knew if maybe the Empress had done something to cause the Crown Princess to start bleeding?

Someone said that the Crown Princess’ child was the only child of the Crown Prince, so the Empress would treat her with the greatest of care. How could she bully the Crown Princess?

Once someone said this, many women came out to speak their opinion. The relationship between daughter and mother-in-law was the biggest problem. Some mothers-in-law treated their daughters-in-law as their own daughters, yet others were harmonious on the surface but at odds in private. Just a few extra looks could cause con lict.

Also, it wasn’t much of a secret that the Empress had been discontent with the Crown Princess in the past. Many noblewomen had seen the Empress slight the Crown Princess in public. This showed that the Empress, the mother-in-law, was very harsh towards the Crown Princess. Now that the Crown Prince was gone, it might be that she did not feel happy and took it out on the Crown Princess.

The rumors outside were so detailed it was as though they were true. The Empress became the archetype of the evil mother-in-law, and the Crown Princess was the pitiful, innocent white lotus that had been treated badly.

When Hua Xi Wan heard the versions of these rumors, she gaped. She had inally experienced what the power of speech was. She might not have a high opinion of the Empress, but the Empress was not someone so brainless. Even if she disliked the Crown Princess’ child very much, she would not be in such a rush to kill the child that she would do it just after she left. The Empress was not that stupid.

But people were always beings who liked to think the worst of people. They would only be interested when they were talking badly of others. Who was interested in discussing the good qualities of others?

The reason that gossip was welcomed was because it would satisfy people’s curiosity. Bad news was usually more welcome than good news. So regardless of the truth of the matter, the Empress’ decadeslong good reputation was inally ruined among the people.

“Since this matter is so popular, why don’t we add some more fuel to ire?” Yan Jin Qiu slowly drank tea and said to Hua Xi Wan, “This Crown Princess is really skilled.” There were many people who were targeting the Crown Princess from inside and outside the palace, but even now, she was able to protect the child. Just this was proof that she was not as innocent and kind as the rumors said.

“What do you want to do?” Hua Xi Wan looked suspiciously at Yan Jin Qiu. She kept on feeling that if Yan Jin Qiu participated in the matter, the effects would multiply.

Two days later, the content of the gossip had changed. That was, no matter how evil of a mother-in-law the Empress was, and even if she wanted to bully her daughter-in-law, she would not want to even kill her grandson. Then why was the Empress so impolite to the Crown Princess?

Was it because the Crown Princess’ child wasn’t the Crown Prince’s, so that was why the Empress was acting so?

Then people said that before the Crown Princess had married, she had been in love with Sheng Junwang. She had even gone to pray in a monastery for Sheng Junwang. But fate was a tease, and so one of the pair married the daughter of the Hou Family and one married the Crown Prince. The love had been there, but it had been forced to end.

What, Sheng Junwang and the Crown Princess had been secretly in love and had almost become a couple?

At irst, everyone felt this was only a rumor, but the more they thought, the more they found it suspicious. It seemed that in the past, Sheng Junwang’s mother and He Wen Furen had been very good friends from childhood. After the wang fei had passed away, He Wen Furen had been so sad that she had gotten ill.

It was also possible that they had privately engaged the children together. Who could expect that the Sheng Wang husband and wife would pass away so early and that His Majesty liked playing matchmaker for his nephews?

Everyone quickly fantasized a tale of love and hate, with sadness at separation, and in the end, they concluded, the Crown Princess’ child was possibly Sheng Junwang’s. Otherwise, the Empress would not treat her so.

As to why no one thought it could be Yan Jin Qiu’s, the reason was very clear. That was because everyone in the world knew that Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei were deeply in love. How could Xian Wang have gotten it down with the Crown Princess? But Sheng Junwang was different. His relationship with Hou shi was neither intense nor indifferent, and he did not seem to have any preferences towards the concubines. Why was he so indifferent—was it because he did not have desires?

If a man was not lusty, that was because there was someone in his heart. In this case, that other person was the Crown Princess.

From this, it could be seen just how important the irst impression was. Sheng Junwang and the Crown Princess were immediately labeled a pair.

Hua Xi Wan who had been astounded by the drama of the rumors was interested. She pulled on Yan Jin Qiu’s sleeve and asked, “The Crown Princess and Sheng Junwang… really had a secret relationship?”

“How about you guess?” Yan Jin Qiu curved his lips in a smile, reached with an arm around her waist, and stole a kills from the corner of her mouth.

“How about you guess if, for the next month, you are sleeping in the study or sleeping in the main yard?” Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow at Yan Jin Qiu. “Wang Ye is so smart, you can de initely guess correctly, right?”

Yan Jin Qiu: “…”

“Their mothers did mention the matter, but because of the elder wang fei’s passing, this matter was put down.” Yan Jin Qiu unhesitatingly chose to sleep in the main yard. “As to whether they had a secret relationship or not, I am not sure. However, I am suspicious that the Crown Princess also had a hand in the Crown Prince’s dif iculties in getting a child.”

“I thought…” Hua Xi Wan looked at Yan Jin Qiu, and the meaning did not have to be said.

“I wasn’t the only one who acted. From the court to the inner palace, there are so many people who wanted the Crown Prince to remain childless that it can’t be counted on the ingers. The Crown Prince was also careless and arrogant in his conduct. Who knows when he started to be unfortunate?” Yan Jin Qiu raised an eyebrow. He had just helped the mastermind act.

After saying this, husband and wife smiled innocently at each other.

“You mean that it really is possible that the Crown Princess had something with Sheng Junwang?” Hua Xi Wan thought back and really couldn’t think of when the two would interact. However, she did detect that the Crown Princess did not treat Hou shi warmly. But she had thought at the time that it was because of the different sides they were on, and not because of emotional matters.

“They are the only ones who know. What does it have to do with me?” Yan Jin Qiu said, unconcerned. “It is not important if we believe or not; what is important is if that one believes it.”

Hua Xi Wan thought the same. Qilong Emperor was probably the person most concerned about this matter. Actually, even if the child was his, he would probably still feel some kind of repellence.

Yan Jin Qiu’s move was really vicious. His ability to control the gossip was not something that normal people could do. If it was in her previous life, someone like Yan Jin Qiu would de initely be spectacular at propaganda.

Thinking about the night pearl decoration that the Crown Princess had given to Hou shi, and the cold gaze with which Hou shi had looked at the Crown Princess at the beginning, Hua Xi Wan felt that many things were starting to come together when she thought of the Crown Prince’s inability to have a child.

She had originally felt that it was strange that the Crown Princess had given that decoration, because from the Crown Princess’ usual personality, it seemed that she was a woman who hoped to have a child. Her personality had also seemed very gentle. Adding on how the Empress and the Crown Prince treated her, how could she unhesitatingly act against Hou shi?

This was like a normally gentle person suddenly killing someone who was an acquaintance. It looked as though it was for power, but in reality, upon closer inspection, that reason was full of holes.

But if the Crown Princess liked Yan Bo YI? For Yan Bo Yi, she dosed the Crown Prince with medicine to make it hard for him to have a child, and then it would be hard for her to ever have a child. But Hou shi managed to get pregnant at this time with the child of the person she loved. At the edge of a breakdown, the Crown Princess followed what the Empress wanted and schemed against Hou shi’s child.

She wondered what Yan Bo Yi thought after the matter occurred. Con lict, sadness, or fury? It seemed that every person in the inner palace was a very skilled actor. The Empress Dowager was so, the Empress was so, and even the Crown Princess was not an exception.

Qilong Emperor looked with a dark expression at the young woman crying in front of him, crying until she couldn’t breathe before his expression eased slightly and he said, “You really didn’t have a secret relationship with Sheng Junwang?”

“Emperor, when Sheng Wang Fei passed away, I was only twelve. I did not understand anything. Not long after, you decreed my matter. Then I stayed inside to prepare and never took a step outside the gates. How could I see an outsider like Sheng Junwang?”

Qilong Emperor looked at the Crown Princess and lingered on her swollen belly. In the end, a hint of a smile came onto his face. “Zhen knows that the rumors outside are the slander of others. Take care of the child and do not worry.”

After Qilong Emperor left, the Crown Princess said with a dark face, “Empress!” Other than the Empress, who would spread such rumors? Only by doing this would those people discussing the Empress’ lack of virtue turn their attention to her and Sheng Junwang, and release the Empress from the gossip.

“Go investigate who spread these rumors.” When Qilong Emperor returned to his residential palace, he gave this order. After a moment of

hesitation, he said, “Also, go investigate if the Crown Princess and Sheng Junwang had a relationship in the past.”

He wanted to believe the Crown Princess, but there were some things that he could only be reassured about after they were proven. Also, was this matter related to the Empress?

No matter if these rumors were true or false, he could not keep his ambitious nephew any longer. If Yan Bo Yi was not taken care of, he would become a calamity.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Eighty-Five: Love Begets Hate

As the widow of the Crown Prince, and with his only child in her belly, the Crown Princess should be a noble personage whom all in the palace treated carefully and with respect. But because the rumors grew stronger as they spread, even the servants in Zhu Que Palace could not resist gossiping behind her back and then looking suspiciously at the Crown Princess’s child.

How could the Crown Princess be ignorant of what people were saying behind her back? However, she knew that she could not react to this matter at all. Because if she reacted, in the eyes of the Emperor, it meant that she was guilty.

Two days later, Qilong Emperor inally came to Zhu Que Palace to see the Crown Princess. He saw her sitting by the windowsill making baby clothes, and the gentleness in her eyes was unparalleled. The Emperor’s suspicious silently halved. “Why are you doing this yourself? Do not strain your eyes.”

“Emperor.” When the Crown Princess saw him, she wanted to get up and curtsey. Qilong Emperor softly pressed on her shoulder and said gently, “We do not need courtesies between us.”

Lin shi’s expression changed slightly, and then she said with a bitter smile, “I did not think that Emperor was still willing to come.”

“With you and zhen’s child here, how can zhen not come?” Qilong Emperor smiled as he sat down next to Lin shi. He picked up the small article that Lin shi was working on and inspected it. “Do not pay attention to the rumors outside. Just rest your mind and take care of your body.”

Lin shi said with red-rimmed eyes, “I don’t know who is at odds with qie to spread such evil rumors. Will they not rest until they force qie to die?”

“With zhen here, you do not need to be afraid.” Qilong Emperor put an arm around her shoulders and comforted gently, “Do not worry. Zhen will not allow the rumors to keep on spreading.”

“Emperor, you are so good to qie.” Lin shi smiled through her tears. She moved into Qilong Emperor’s embrace, but there was no joy in her eyes.

One day later, the news that over ten palace attendants were beaten to death for gossiping spread and caused many people to close their mouths. Even if they had suspicions, no one was tactless enough to speak them out loud.

When Hou shi heard that the Emperor had over ten palace attendants beaten to death for Lin shi, she said to Yan Bo Yi with a cold smile, “This is called true love.”

Yan Bo Yi had a dark expression and did not speak. His position in court had been affected greatly recently due to the rumors. The old emperor was probably very discontent with him right now.

Hou shi saw him act like this and couldn’t help but ask the question that had been there for a long time. “Tell me, who is really the father of the Crown Princess’ child?”

“Do not think nonsense.” Yan Bo Yi stood with slight displeasure. He said coldly, “Rest well, and do not think about useless matters.”

When Hou shi saw him leave without a glance back, her suspicions increased rather than decreased. She thought of the Crown Princess’ coolness to her, and the concubines in the fu who had features that were similar to the Crown Princess’. It was like there was a rock on her chest and she was not able to breathe.

No wonder he did all he could to make the Crown Prince unable to have a child, and then tried to do all he could to kill the Crown Prince. So it was for that woman. She had thought before that his personality was a cool one—but actually he was just warm to Lin shi, and she was a pitiful person who had the position of his wife.

He wanted the throne so much—was it so that he could possess Lin shi without any constraints?

She gripped the handkerchief in her hand. Hou shi thought for a long time before she methodically wiped the corner of her eyes. Her expression was calm to the extreme. “Someone come, send a card to Xian Wang Fu.”

When Hua Xi Wan received Hou shi’s card, she was slightly surprised. “Hou shi is actually interested in coming for a visit at a time like this. I have to say that she is someone who is skilled in enduring.”

“Sheng Junwang Fei does not have it easy.” Bai Xia put Hua Xi Wan’s hair up and then neatened the hairpins. “Mistress, are you going to see her?”

“If I do not, I will appear heartless.” Hua Xi Wan put down the card and said with a smile, “I also want to see what this husband and wife want to do.”

After Yan Jin Qiu heard that Hua Xi Wan was going to receive Hou shi, he did not say anything and only had Mu Tong order the servants to serve carefully.

He believed in Xi Wan’s skill. Just like Xi Wan trusted him and would never ask useless questions.

The next day when Hou shi came to Xian Wang Fu, Hua Xi Wan invited her to the pavilion in the middle of the lake to drink tea. Hou shi did not refuse.

Hou shi had come to this Pavilion on the Lake before. That time, Hou shi had implied that she was willing to help Xian Wang succeed the throne, but Hua Xi Wan had pretended to be clueless and moved over the topic. Coming back to this place now, Hou shi felt that she was so laughable for scheming for that man even at the expense of her own body.

Even if she put everything on the line for Yan Bo Yi, maybe she still wouldn’t be worth a pinky of Lin shi.

Hua Xi Wan felt that Hou shi was even more dark that in the past. She did not know why Hou shi had come to visit her, so she only talked about some boring topics. She had not expected Hou shi to directly state her intentions.

“Meimei, help me.”

Hua Xi Wan’s hand that held the teacup stilled. She then smiled and said, “Tang sao, what do you mean?”

“Meimei is so intelligent—how can you not know what I am saying?” Hou shi looked with a burning gaze at Hua Xi Wan.”I am not resigned.”

The smile on Hua Xi Wan’s face faded and became one of con lict. “Tang sao, you are a very intelligent woman. How can you not know that there are many matters which I cannot decide?”

Hou shi fell into a daze. “Yes, the men in the world are the same, all the same.” She had thought that Xian Wang was different towards Hua Xi Wan, but since they were all members of the Imperial Family, how could they escape the cruelty and heartlessness of the Imperial Family?

But other than Xian Wang, she could not ind anyone else who could defeat Yan Bo Yi. She wanted to see him unable to achieve what he wanted, and never possess Lin shi!

Since her heart had been given to the wrong person, then she would not allow Yan Bo Yi to be happy.

“If you are willing to help me, I can tell you the secret forces that Yan Bo Yi has,” Hou shi said in a cool tone. “Who he is truly on good terms with, what secret properties he has, which spies he has arranged, and even what plans he has—I can tell you.”

Hua Xi Wan examined Hou shi carefully. Unless the other was the best actor in the world, there was no way that she could use this kind of expression and tone to say these words. But she still did not believe the other completely. “Saozi, you are joking. What Tang xiong has arranged has nothing to do with us. What is the use in my knowing such things?”

“Ha.” Hou shi smiled coldly and said, “If it wasn’t that Xian Wang is his only threat, you think that I would be willing to do this?”

Hua Xi Wan smiled upon hearing this. “If that is the case, Jiejie, why force yourself?”

“But I have to force myself to do some things.” Hou shi widened her eyes. “I want to see his hopes destroyed!”

Sometimes, the difference between love and hate was just a ine line, Hua Xi Wan couldn’t help but think when she saw Hou shi like this. Maybe when Yan Jin Qiu had people spread the rumors, it was to make Hou shi give up on Yan Bo Yi or hate him. The Emperor may not have even been the main target.

“Saozi, you cannot believe the rumors. You should not do anything because of words unrelated to you.” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “You are too excited now. When you calm down, you will not say this.”

“In the past, I was too impulsive and did those things for a man. Now I am calm.” Hou shi sipped tea with a calm expression. “I am willing to help you. I have no other request than to hope that my Hou Family will be safe when Xian Wang ascends the throne. I know my paternal family. They are not brave and are worried about trouble, so they are not willing to participate in the ight for the throne. If it was not for me, they would not be touched by these matters. Really, it is me who has dragged them in.”

Hua Xi Wan was silent. Inside, she had a new understanding of Hou shi.

“As a woman, can I not know what the person sleeping beside me thinks?” Hou shi sneered. “His heart is not on me, nor on the other women in the wang fu. In the past, I wanted to receive his true love; now I do not need it.”

Hua Xi Wan personally poured tea for Hou shi. Her opinion was not the same as Hou shi’s. Maybe Yan Bo Yi truly didn’t have any love for Hou shi, but it was unlikely that he had a lot of love for the Crown Princess, Lin shi. In Yan Bo Yi’s eyes, women were probably tools. He pursued the throne for his ambitions, and not out of love for a woman.

“These are my true words. Three days later, I will show you my sincerity.” Hou shi said this before she left Xian Wang Fu without a backward glance.

Hua Xi Wan sat in the pavilion. When she thought of Hou shi’s expression when she spoke of her paternal family, Hua Xi Wan sighed and drank the warm tea.

“What are you thinking?” Yan Jin Qiu took the cup in her hand and took a drink before sitting down next to her. “Did Hou shi say something that is of dif iculty to you?”

Hua Xi Wan narrated what Hou shi had said before asking, “Do you believe her?”

Yan Jin Qiu raised an eyebrow and said idly, “I will know whether to believe her or not after she shows her sincerity.” He reached out to caress her face. “Do not burden your mind with these minor matters. It is not important if Hou shi’s words are true or not.”

Hua Xi Wan disdainfully slapped away his hand and stole her teacup back to pour herself a full cup. “If you want tea, pour it yourself. Don’t steal my cup every time.”

The servants in the pavilion: Life is so dif icult seeing Wang Ye and Wang Fei being lovey-dovey every day.

Three days later, Yan Jin Qiu received a ledger. Written inside was the detailed accounts of Yan Bo Yi’s expenses, of which a huge portion was used to bribe others.

“It seems that Hou shi has truly given up on Yan Bo Yi this time.” Mu Tong saw Yan Jin Qiu was in a good mood and carefully asked, “Wang Ye, should we add to the ire?”

“It would be too much.” Yan Jin Qiu threw the ledger to the side. “Wait and see.”

“Then…”

“Wang Fei’s lunch will be ready soon.” Yan Jin Qiu waved his hand. “We will talk after eating.”

Mu Tong: I keep on feeling that Wang Ye has changed after being together with Wang Fei. This must be a wrong feeling…

In Sheng Junwang Fu, Yan Bo Yi’s expression was not good as he said, “You have gone to Xian Wang Fu again. I didn’t know that you have such a good relationship with Xian Wang Fei.”

“Didn’t you tell qie a few days ago to get closer to Xian Wang Fei?” Hou shi said with puzzlement on her face. “Xian Wang Fei is a lazy person, and does not like seeing guests. It is rare that she is willing to see qie recently. If I do not go, wouldn’t I be wasting such a good opportunity?”

Yan Bo Yi frowned upon hearing this but did not speak again.

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Chapter Eighty-Six: Warning

An of icial was excitedly criticizing the Chief Justice of the Judicial Of ice during court. He accused the other of dozens of crimes, then presented his proof. It was as though if he could not get this person, he would not rest.

The other of icials had strange expressions. Everyone knew that the Chief Justice of the Judicial Of ice was on good terms with Sheng Junwang and respected him very much. This person who was criticizing the Chief Justice right now was undoubtedly putting himself at odds with Sheng Junwang.

A minor imperial censor dared to do something like this. Who gave him the courage? Or rather… who was the person behind him?

The Emperor, as expected, did not let this opportunity pass. He immediately stripped the Chief Justice of the Judicial Of ice of his role, and arrested him to wait for his sentence.

Almost everyone understood this was a signal—the Emperor was going to move against Sheng Junwang! There were many parties in the court. One was strictly monarchist. They would do what the Emperor said. One was for the Imperial Family. They felt that if the Emperor did not have a son, then he should adopt one of his nephews as heir. Most of this part supported Sheng Junwang. There was also a neutral party. They would only recognize those who would be of bene it to them rather than follow a party.

In the view of the neutral party, the Emperor’s decision would not be right, and Sheng Junwang might not be the best choice. They did not have to be in a hurry to pick sides in case they offended the person who did become the next emperor. They would rather not have the merit of helping someone onto the throne rather than become an eyesore in the eyes of the next emperor.

Qilong Emperor’s attitude was too determined. The party that supported Sheng Junwang wasn’t even able to beg for mercy as they watched the imperial guards drag the Chief Justice away.

“Zhen thinks that Zhang Hou is not a bad person. He will temporarily take the position of Chief Justice.” The Emperor, to show his fairness, deliberately picked the Junior Justice Zhang Hou who had displeased him to become the Chief Justice.

The of icials were surprised. Wasn’t this Zhang Hou who had enraged the Emperor over his investigation in the case of the Crown Prince? Why was the Emperor so generous to promote him? They had thought that he would hate this of icial.

Of course, Qilong Emperor was not a generous person. He promoted Zhang Hou for everyone to see. He wanted the public to know that he would use even a person like Zhang Hou. Therefore, his demoting people now was not done out of sel ish intent, but because they had committed great crimes.

In the end, he was just inding an excuse to cover it up.

Yan Jin Qiu lowered his head and stood as if all of this had nothing to do with him. In the eyes of other people, Xian Wang was as expected, someone truly detached from these matters. It had to be said that if Sheng Junwang lost power, then the possibility of Xian Wang ascending the throne would become even greater.

It was a pity that this person was one who did not like power. It was a waste of his talent.

Everyone thought that the imperial censor who had criticized the Chief Justice had been arranged by the Emperor. Even Yan Bo Yi thought this. After the court session ended, he looked coldly at the imperial censor and turned to leave.

“Sheng Junwang.” Ning Wang walked in front of him with a smile and said emotionally, “People nowadays are really daring, don’t you t

hink?”

“Ning Wang has said that your health hasn’t been good recently. If that’s the case, then do not meddle in matters not concerning you, and rest at home.” Sheng Junwang raised his hands coldly. “This one will go irst. Farewell.”

“Tsk.” Ning Wang rubbed his chin as he watched Yan Bo Yi walk away. He turned his head and saw Yan Jin Qiu who was sedately walking away. He blinked. Maybe it was time to make a decision.

In the months after this, there were many changes in court. Several high-ranking and powerful of icials were demoted. Almost all of this people had one thing in common: they were close to Sheng Junwang or they admired him.

The common people only thought that this was the Emperor going crazy over the death of his son, and did not know that this was a battle for the court.

Amateurs watched for the spectacle, and the professionals watched for the technique. Many of the of icials who had been close to Yan Bo Yi in the past were now extremely cautious. They even broke off their interactions with Sheng JunwangFu to express where they stood.

“Who was it that leaked this?!” Yan Bo Yi looked at his advisors in the room with a dark face. These were his closest con idants, but right now, he was suspicious that one among them had betrayed him.

Some of the of icials who had been demoted didn’t even have any interactions with him in public. But even so, the Emperor had sentenced them. This meant that the Emperor already knew of their secret interactions with him.

But how did the Emperor learn of this?

“Junwang Ye…” The advisors stared at each other. None of them had thought the situation would become like this, and they started to suspect each other.

Seeing them like this, Yan Bo Yi did not say anything. He rubbed the corner of his eye tiredly and said, “What do you think should be done?”

“The Emperor has already decided to set himself against Junwang Ye. Why don’t we…” One of the advisors did not inish speaking before Yan Bo Yi glared at him. He did not dare to continue.

“Leave.” Since Yan Bo Yi was already suspicious of these advisors, he naturally would not discuss important matters with them any longer. So after he had them all leave, he sighed helplessly.

Originally, everything had been prepared and he only lacked an eastern wind. No one had expected the situation to reverse itself and force him to a precipice.

Now that it had developed to this step, he would either have to be vicious, or he would die.

He balled his ists and stood to walk towards the main yard.

In Xian Wang Fu, Hua Xi Wan used a handkerchief to wipe her face. Waving a fan, she said, “It is just May right now—how come it is so hot?”

“This servant also feels that this year is exceptionally hot.” Bai Xia fanned Hua Xi Wan and said with a light laugh, “Do not be angry. I will fan you and it will not be so hot.”

“This is almost suffocating heat. Maybe rain is coming.” Hua Xi Wan exhaled heavily. “Make me another bowl of iced silver fungus. It is so hot my heart feels restless.”

“Wang Fei, you cannot eat too many cold things. You have already used a bowl this morning.” Bai Xia fanned her. “How about this servant makes you a cup of cold tea?”

Hua Xi Wan could recognize what was to her bene it. Hearing this, she could only sigh and say, “All right, you should also go and drink a bowl.” She pulled the thin robe and weakly slumped on the table. Seeing Yan Jin Qiu come in, she didn’t even move.

“What is going on?” Yan Jin Qiu was wearing his proper attire. Seeing Hua Xi Wan was so heated that her face was lushed, he said, “Why are you not putting out ice in the room?”

“If I use ice when it is just May, what will I do in June and July?” Hua Xi Wan glanced at him weakly. Seeing he was still wearing his outer robe, she said, “Why are you dressed so heavily?”

Yan Jin Qiu took off the outer robe and immediately felt much lighter. Turning around, he saw that Hua Xi Wan was still lying down and went forward to say, “Let’s go sit in the pavilion on the lake. The wind blows there and it will be much cooler.”

Hua Xi Wan took the tea that Bai Xia handed and took a sip. When the tea reached her throat, it was very refreshing. This made her slightly more alert. “Let’s go.”

The lotuses in the lake had started to bud. Hua Xi Wan leaned against the stone table in the pavilion and said lazily, “I see that your complexion is good today. Did something good happen?”

“Ever since I married you, good things happen to me daily.” Yan Jin Qiu poured a cup of water for her. “Was I not in a good mood before?”

“Don’t sweet talk.” Hua Xi Wan raised her head to glance at him and then said, “When were you happy?”

When he heard this, Yan Jin Qiu’s heart moved. Then he laughed brightly. “What more can I ask of this wife?”

Hua Xi Wan was too lazy to attend to his hyper-emotional attitude. She took the cup that he handed over and drank. With the cool wind blowing, she felt her restlessness disappear.

Not long after husband and wife sat down, news came from the palace saying that the Crown Princess was about to give birth.

“About to give birth?” Hua Xi Wan stilled. Was she even at full term yet?

Mu Tong said, “The palace has said that the Crown Princess has entered the labor room. However, it has almost been four hours, and the imperial grandson has not arrived.”

Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu exchanged a look. Yan Jin Qiu said, “If that’s the case, then we will irst wait. It will not be appropriate for us to hurry to the palace now.”

It would be all right if the Crown Princess had a successful labor. If it was not successful, wouldn’t they become the targets of the Emperor’s fury?

Another two hours passed, and the news from the palace was still that the imperial grandson had not arrived.

Husband and wife then ate a noon meal and napped. The palace sent news again—the imperial grandson had not arrived.

This was the time when thunderstorms were about to come. The clouds were dark, and the wind blew wildly. It could be seen that a thunderstorm was about to arrive.

When the irst roar of thunder came, rain dropped down. Hua Xi Wan looked at the lowers that were struck down by the rain and had a strange feeling that maybe the Crown Princess would be able to give birth at last. But after birth, what waited for them was not good fortune but something else.

When night came, a burst of thunder came, and a cypress tree beside the imperial tomb was struck by lightning. Even the house that was used as a residence for the guards of the tomb was burned. Though the rain was heavy, the entire residence was completely burned down.

“Born!”

“Congratulations Emperor, congratulations Empress, the Crown Princess has given birth to an imperial grandson.”

“Emperor, report, the imperial tomb’s cypress tree was struck by lightning and broke. The residence of the tomb guards was also burned down.”

“Emperor, report, ire has appeared in the suburbs of Jing, and has burned down dozens of residences.”

The cries of a child and the booms of thunder sounded, but the atmosphere froze.

What did it mean when the imperial grandson was just born and so many strange things happened, such as the tree at the imperial tomb being struck by lightning?

It meant that the birth of the imperial grandson would bring inauspicious fortune.

Qilong Emperor looked at the child in his swaddling clothes. A long time later, he forced down the anger inside. “Prepare the altar, zhen has to burn incense to the ancestors.”

There were some things that were coincidences in this world. Even if he did not object to this child, the child would only represent inauspiciousness in the eyes of the people.

It had been a long time since Qilong Emperor had tasted the feeling of being pressured. But today, he had to believe in fate, he had to voice his crimes to the ancestors. Otherwise, he would be considered un ilial.

Or maybe, this wasn’t done on purpose. Were the ancestors truly expressing their displeasure at the wretched thing he had done?

The more he thought, the more fear he felt. He turned back to look in the direction of the labor room. The imperial decree he had prepared was not announced in the end.

He did not want to leave behind a bad name when he passed away. He would wait and think of another way in the future.

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Chapter Eighty-Seven: Poison

What was the biggest rumor going around Jing right now?

It was that when the Crown Princess had been in labor, the evergreen tree by the imperial tomb had been struck by lightning, and that a ire had started in the suburbs of Jing. Phenomena like this did not happen at the birth of someone normal, but it would have been better not to have these things occur.

Someone said that the imperial grandson was a demon and would bring calamity to the entire country. Others said that this was the warning that the heavens and the Yan ancestors were giving because this imperial grandson was not the child of the Crown Prince but born of the adulterous affair between the Crown Princess and Sheng Junwang.

Negative gossip was always more welcome than praise for others, and spread the fastest. The news that the Crown Princess had committed adultery and given birth to a demon spread through the entire country. In some remote places, the rumor had become the Crown Princess having illicit relations with a feral man and giving birth to a monster that would bring calamity.

People did not completely believe in monsters and demons, but de initely feared them. Also, the rumors about the imperial grandson were so detailed that even the people who did not originally believe them started to believe them.

“So the rumors outside say that the imperial grandson has three eyes, six arms, black skin, and fangs?” Hua Xi Wan sipped tea, and laughed, covering her mouth with a fan. “What is all this nonsense?”

Hong Ying said with a smile, “The people outside have not seen the imperial grandson. Isn’t it normal for the rumors to get exaggerated as they spread?”

Hua Xi Wan smiled. However, when she turned her head, she thought, this was such a coincidence. Just as the thunderstorm seemed to be coming, the Crown Princess went into labor. There were so many places the lightning could strike—why did it strike the evergreen tree by the imperial tomb? Also, the buildings had been burned down, but no one had been hurt. It was as though someone had known there would be a ire and saved the people beforehand.

“Bai Xia, when the ire started, who saved the people in the buildings?” Hua Xi Wan covered her lower belly lightly. Today, her monthlies had come. Not only could she not eat ice, she wasn’t even allowed to have ice in the room. This was both hot and uncomfortable; she felt uncomfortable all over.

“I heard it was the Guard Of ice patrol that coincidentally passed by and saved the people. It is a pity that the ire was too strong, and so while the people were saved, the buildings were burned.” Bai Xia knew that Hua Xi Wan had a hard time with the heat and got hot water to wipe Hua Xi Wan’s hands and face to lower her temperature. She wrung out the handkerchief and handed it to Hua Xi Wan. She continued, “It is so

coincidental—this Guard Of icial patrol used to be under the command of Of icial Zhang Hou. After Of icial Zhang Hou went to the Judicial Of ice, his second-in-command took his spot.”

“Zhang Hou?” When this person was mentioned, what Hua Xi Wan thought of irst was that honest face and upright igure. “I heard that he was slighted greatly in the Judicial Of ice. How is he now?”

“A few days ago, someone criticized the Chief Justice. He was stripped of his role and Of icial Zhang Hou took over. Now he is the Chief Justice.” Bai Xia took the handkerchief that Hua Xi Wan had used. “The people all say that Of icial Zhang is a stupid person but a lucky one. They forget how just a short time ago they laughed that Of icial Zhang was too stubborn and did not recognize what was good for him.”

“People are always like this.” After wiping her neck and arms, Hua Xi Wan felt that her body wasn’t so sticky anymore. She said in a good mood, “I think that this Zhang Hou has pretty good luck.”

She looked outside the door. Wind suddenly gusted strongly. It seemed as though a great storm was about to come again.

“Has Wang Ye returned to the fu?” She suddenly recalled that Yan Jin Qiu seemed to have been very busy recently. Even though he squeezed out time every day to accompany her, from the speed with which he fell asleep at night, the energy and attention he was using recently were multiple what they were usually.

“This servant doesn’t know; this servant will go and ask.” Bai Xia looked at the banana tree that was swaying in the wind and handed the basin of water to Hong Ying. She prepared to leave.

“It is about to rain, do not leave.” Hua Xi Wan walked to the doorway and enjoyed the power nature from the wild wind. Then she pointed at Yan Jin Qiu who was coming from afar with lapping clothes. “Isn’t he coming back now?”

Bai Xia turned around to look. She saw Wang Ye walking over with a few attendants, and moved to stand at the side with a smile.

“The wind is so strong—what are you standing at the door for?” Yan Jin Qiu touched Hua Xi Wan’s ingertip when he came in. He found that there was a thin layer of cold sweat on her and asked worriedly, “You are having a cold sweat in such heat—are you well?”

“I was too hot, so I wanted to feel the wind by the door.” Hua Xi Wan whispered in his ear, and after seeing his expression become unnatural, she touched her belly and said, “Now do you know what is going on?”

Yan Jin Qiu coughed lightly. He looked at the servants around and waved for them to leave. Then he carried Hua Xi Wan onto the bed before reaching out to lightly massage her belly. “Since you are not comfortable, nap for a while. When it is time for the evening meal, I will wake you.”

Maybe because it was the irst time that he was doing such a thing, Yan Jin Qiu’s movements were very unpracticed and awkward. After rubbing while not daring to use too much force and only rubbing at the one spot, he caused Hua Xi Wan to complain. “Are you massaging my stomach for me or scratching an itch?”

Yan Jin Qiu increased the force. After massaging for a while, he saw the breathing of the person on the bed became regular. After she sank into a deep sleep, he lightly took his hand away and covered her with a silk blanket.

The sound of rain splatting came from outside. He walked to the window and saw the banana tree that was vibrating from the wind and rain. He narrowed his eyes in a good mood.

Thunder suddenly reverberated. He abruptly turned back to the bed to look at Hua Xi Wan. Seeing that she had not been startled awake by the thunder, he quickly walked to sit down at the edge of the bed and reached out to pat the hump under the blanket. As he listened to the sounds outside, the gentleness in his eyes could turn people into a puddle.

What the sound of the rain gave people was not irritation but another kind of serenity and peace.

When Hua Xi Wan woke up, she found that someone was sitting beside her. Turning her head, she saw Yan Jin Qiu was leaning against the

bedframe and holding a book. She covered her mouth as she yawned and said, “The room is so dark—why are you reading here?”

“No matter, it is calm here.” Yan Jin Qiu threw the book aside and stood up to close the window before sitting back next to Hua Xi Wan. “The meal will be ready soon. Get up and wash your face.” Then, he clapped his hands, and the servants streamed in.

“Why did you close the window? It is so hot.” Hua Xi Wan got off the bed and spread her hands out to let the servant girls help her change.

“You just got up from under the blankets, and it is easy to get ill after sudden changes in temperature. Get dressed irst.” Yan Jin Qiu sighed helplessly. “I have ordered the kitchen to make dishes that are light tonight.”

“Oh.” Knowing that it was for her bene it, Hua Xi Wan did not argue. She docilely dressed, and after attiring herself, she had the servant open the window.

She lay by the window and idly felt the wind blow. She did not forget to pull Yan Jin Qiu over to her. “How long has the rain been going?”

“Since soon after you slept.” Yan Jin Qiu reached out to push her hair behind her ear before saying, “You have been staying in the fu these days—don’t you feel it is boring?” Due to the tenseness of the situation,

the whole fu was lacking in entertainment. He was worried that Hua Xi Wan would get ill from staying inside all day.

Hua Xi Wan shook her head and said with a smile, “The goal of my life is to eat when I want, sleep when I want, and if I don’t want to go out, that no one can call me out. It is so tiring to go out. It is tiring to be careful when I speak, and when I encounter someone of a higher rank, I have to bow and latter them. Don’t you ind it bothersome?”

“Such a lazy person—I really don’t know how you were raised.” Yan Jin Qiu laughed. “If you don’t like going out, then don’t. In the future, there will be one day when you do not have to bow to anyone.”

Hua Xi Wan: Haha, even if there was a day when he would become the emperor, even if he did not have her bow, there would still be a dowager empress on top. So could she not bow?

“Report! The Empress Dowager is ill!”

Hua Xi Wan swore she had no intentions of cursing the Empress Dowager!

“What is it?” Yan Jin Qiu’s reaction was unexpectedly calm in Hua Xi Wan’s eyes. She silently looked at Mu Tong and suddenly realized that every time something major happened, the person who would report would usually be Mu Tong.

Her gaze moved to Mu Tong and then to Yan Jin Qiu. It seemed that Yan Jin Qiu trusted Mu Tong greatly?

“Seemingly this afternoon, the Empress sent a plate of pastries to the Empress Dowager. Not long after the Empress Dowager ate them, she felt uncomfortable. Before the grand doctor could come, she threw up blood. Not long after the grand doctors came, they discovered that the Empress Dowager was poisoned. The poison was the same as what was in the pastries the Empress had sent.”

The Empress had personally delivered a plate of pastries and poisoned the Empress Dowager? The Empress was not stupid—would she do something so dumb?

It seemed that the Empress had fallen in someone’s trap.

“The Empress?” Hua Xi Wan asked. “Was the Empress imprisoned?”

“The people of the Judicial Of ice have already sent the Empress into the Heavenly Prison under heavy guard.” Mu Tong stilled. “But the case has not been closed, and the Empress Dowager is unconscious.”

“Prepare the carriage, Wang Fei and I need to go into the palace to visit Imperial Grandmother.” Yan Jin Qiu pulled Hua Xi Wan’s hand. “Let’s go.”

Mu Tong just wanted to remind WangYe that his clothing was wrinkled and that maybe he should change. But then he thought it would be better if Wang Ye did not change.

In the Heavenly Prison, the Empress sat on the bed with unmade hair. She was suspected of poisoning the Empress Dowager, but she was the mother of the country, so no one dared to slight her. She did not lack for anything in the prison. The only thing that she could not do was leave.

The Crown Princess stood outside the bars and looked at the Empress. “Mother-Empress, are you all right? Daughter-in-law has come to visit you.”

The Empress looked coldly at her and did not speak.

“You thought that if you worked on the midwife, you could kill the mother and keep the child?” The Crown Princess sneered. “Not so simple.”

“What do you have to be proud of to have given birth to a demon?” the Empress said disdainfully. “You think that an imperial grandson who was born with a reputation like that can succeed to the throne?”

The Crown Princess was silent for a while before she suddenly said, “I have never thought of having this child ight for the throne. When I

married the Crown Prince in the past according to my duties, I never thought of doing such a thing. When you were harsh to me, and I was out of the Crown Prince’s favor, when he laughed and lirted with concubines in front of me, did I ever say an angry word?”

“But even so, you felt that I am good for nothing.” When the Crown Princess spoke, she suddenly smiled. “The Heavens have eyes for you to have ended up like this. In these years, haven’t you done great evil in order to keep the other imperial consorts from having children?”

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Chapter Eighty-Eight: Death of a Phoenix

“Do you not have any blood on your hands?” The Empress smiled unconcernedly. “Now that your wings are fully grown, you bribed one of my people to poison the Empress Dowager and caused me to be imprisoned. I will admit that I am not as skilled as you, but you do not need to act so tragic. We are all on the same path, and you are not much cleaner than I am.”

Lin shi’s smile froze slightly and then she said, “You can only win verbally now. I will let you see how the entire Fang Family falls!”

The lack of concern on the Empress’ face inally disappeared. “What do you mean?”

“Nothing.” Lin shi listened to the sound of thunder outside and giggled. “The thunder is really pleasing to the ear. Empress, enjoy the last days of being the empress in jail. Maybe not long in the future, you will not be the empress but a criminal consort.”

The Empress reached out through the bars of the prison and grabbed the corner of Lin shi’s clothes. “What do you want to do to the Fang Family?!”

Lin shi pulled the corner of her dress and then pressed the Empress’s hand hard under her foot. “When you were bullying me, you should

have thought of the day when retribution would come!”

“Ah!” The bone-crushing pain caused the Empress to cry out. “Lin shi, you will not die a good death!”

“A person who is already living in hell will not fear death.” Lin shi laughed until she almost cried. “It is only my pitiful child. His reputation was ruined from when he was born. He became the inauspicious star that would bring calamity to the world. The child is innocent. When you had people spread rumors about my child, you never thought of leaving some way for us to survive.”

The Empress stilled. She looked in shock at Lin shi. “You think that I did that?”

“You do not have to act so well.” Lin shi smiled coldly. “You ruined my son’s life, and I will take your entire Fang Clan in exchange!”

Lin shi moved her foot away. She touched the silver hairpins in her hair. While she did not have any makeup on her face, her tender skin was enough to make up for countless laws.

She walked out of the prison. Looking at the pouring rain, she unhesitatingly stepped into the storm.

“Mistress, it has not been a month since you gave birth. It was not good for you to leave the rooms. You cannot get rained on, or you will become ill in the future.” The servant behind her put up an umbrella to shield her from the rain. However, the rain was too heavy. Even though there was an umbrella, many drops of rain still reached Lin shi’s face.

Lin shi smiled unconcernedly and continued to stride forward.

She was standing in this shaking core of power—what future was there?

A crowd of imperial doctors and grand doctors were squeezed in the side hall of the Empress Dowager’s palace. There were many of the Yan Clan standing outside. As the Empress Dowager remained unconscious, the faces of the Imperial House members outside got uglier.

When had their Imperial Yan Clan ever had an empress who poisoned the empress dowager? This ugly matter could not be concealed and was de initely going to enter the history books.

When they thought of this, their expressions became even uglier. It was likely that thousands of years later, when people mentioned the Yan Clan’s imperial dynasty, they would not forget this ugly matter.

Daughter-in-law poisoning Mother-in-law, that was un ilial. Empress poisoning Empress Dowager, that was treasonous. Yet, this person who

was un ilial and treasonous was the very empress whom the Emperor had insisted on investing with the empress title in the past.

Of those present, Qilong Emperor’s expression was the ugliest. He had acted the ilial son for so many years, but now, his empress had poisoned the Empress Dowager. Not only did this cause all of his previous efforts to go to waste, but it also created a stain on his life that would be dif icult to erase.

Everyone knew that the Empress Dowager was not his birth mother. No matter all the excuses he could use, these people would not believe his words. He didn’t know how those scholars would judge this matter, and him.

There were not many emperors who did not care about how the history books would record them. Qilong Emperor was the same. When he thought about how the people in the future would misunderstand him because of this matter, Qilong Emperor felt a ire burning inside that could not be extinguished.

“Emperor, Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei have arrived.”

Qilong Emperor looked towards the doorway. Yan Jin Qiu and Hua shi were hurrying over. The lower half of Yan Jin Qiu’s robes was soaked in water, and his clothing was wrinkled. Hua shi was wearing simple clothing, and her hair was in a simple bun. Her beautiful embroidered slippers had become grey due to having touched dirty water.

If these two met with the Emperor looking like this at a normal time, people would de initely feel that they were breaking etiquette. However, the Empress Dowager was in such a dangerous state right now. Xian Wang had been raised by the Empress Dowager, so the two of them had came to the palace without even changing. Even the sternest person would think that these two had pure hearts.

Who in Jing did not know of the handsome Xian Wang and the stunning beauty of Xian Wang Fei? Who had seen them so disheveled? It could be seen just how panicked the two had felt on their way here.

Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan came in front of Qilong Emperor and knelt down. Yan Jin Qiu did not make excuses and said directly, “This subject and wife have broken etiquette. Emperor, please give your punishment.”

“Virtuous Nephew, Virtuous Niece-in-law, please rise. Zhen understands what you two feel. The Empress Dowager would also be moved by your ilialness.” Qilong Emperor’s eyes became rimmed in red as he personally reached out to help Yan Jin Qiu up. He said in a choked voice, “Zhen right now… zhen feels guilty.” Finishing, he covered his face with his sleeve and started to cry without any sign of composure.

Hua Xi Wan silently lowered her head. This Qilong Emperor was really working hard at washing himself clean. He was using this move of crying and sobbing in front of so many people. She just didn’t know if other people thought that he was truly feeling it or was just acting.

“Please, Emperor, do not be like this. Imperial Grandmother frequently talks to this subject about your ilialness and consideration to her. No one could have predicted what happened today.” Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes also turned red and he started to sob. “This subject… this subject only hopes that Imperial Grandmother can be healthy and unharmed.”

Seeing Yan Jin Qiu also take out his Oscar-winning skills, Hua Xi Wan sighed. She hadn’t thought that after being reborn, she still had to continue her old line of work. This was a tragic story.

“Wang Ye, do not be like this.” Hua Xi Wan pinched a corner of her handkerchief and wiped at her eyes without any elegance. She quickly started to cry to the point she couldn’t breathe. She acted out a woman who was afraid and shocked and worried about her husband. “If Imperial Grandmother knows that you have neglected your body so, when Imperial Grandmother recovers, won’t she feel pain for your health? You… do not be too sad.” While she urged Yan Jin Qiu to not be sad, she was crying sorrowfully.

Yan Jin Qiu put an arm around Hua Xi Wan. Disregarding the other Imperial Family members in the room, he sobbed. “Today, I am willing to kneel here to pray for Imperial Grandmother, and only wish for her to be safe, and in good health.”

“Wang Ye, qie will accompany you.”

“Your body is not strong. Do not…”

“Husband and wife should be one. You are worried and sad for Imperial Grandmother—how can qie bear to just watch you?”

Many of the womenfolk were moved by this scene and their eyes also turned red.

Xian Wang was really a ilial child, and Xian Wang Fei was a virtuous, ilial and good wife. Why had they thought that Xian Wang Fei was a person who only had beauty and wasn’t worthy of Xian Wang’s favor? That had been very biased. Look how good a woman Xian Wang Fei was.

Ning Wang looked with admiration at the Emperor and the Xian couple crying one sadder than the other. He silently wiped his face. He turned his head to look at the lightning and thunder that was causing the world to shake and felt great respect for the acting skills of these three people.

No, it should only be two people. Of the three, only Xian Wang Fei was sincerely crying. Females always followed their men. This Xian Wang was sad, so she naturally felt sad. It was a pity that she didn’t know that the man next to her wasn’t truly feeling sad but acting.

“Emperor, the Empress Dowager has woken up!”

Everyone looked with shocked expressions as the Xian husband and wife. Had these two’s ilialness moved the heavens and caused the

Empress Dowager who had been unconscious for so many hours to wake up?

Even Ning Wang was slightly shocked. So there were really such coincidences in this world?

The Empress Dowager woke up, but that didn’t mean that she was ine. When everyone walked into the room, they saw the Empress Dowager leaning back against the pillows. Her eyes were bright with alertness. Their hearts jumped. This was… the last gasp before death?

But no one dared to say this. They only knelt docilely and waited for the Empress Dowager to speak.

“You have all come?” Empress Dowager’s gaze swept across the people and then landed on Yan Jin Qiu at the end. She smiled as she beckoned towards Yan Jin Qiu. “Zi Ling, came to Imperial Grandmother.”

“Imperial Grandmother.” Yan Jin Qiu hurriedly used his sleeve to wipe his eyes and tried to make his tone seem more natural. “Are you feeling better?”

“It will not get better.” The Empress Dowager looked at the doorway to the hall and sighed. “Aijia has stayed for over two decades in this palace. It is time to rest.”

Yan Jin Qiu gripped her warm hand and didn’t speak.

“You are a good child. Out of all of aijia’s imperial grandchildren, you are the most ilial. Now that aijia has seen you before leaving, aijia’s worries have eased.” The Empress Dowager looked at the Emperor. “Your birth mother was of low birth. The previous emperor had me raise you. Aijia never thought that you have been mistreated. But aijia never thought that this life would be lost by the hand of your empress.”

Qilong Emperor’s body swayed where he was kneeling on the ground. He had not expected that the Empress Dowager would say in front of so many people that his mother was of low birth. He raised his head and looked at the court recorder who was furiously writing in the corner. His face darkened but he managed to bear it.

“All right, all right, aijia is old, and cannot manage you.” The Empress Dowager suddenly looked behind the Emperor and said, “The previous emperor is here?”

Qilong Emperor felt a cold sweat on his back. He couldn’t help but look back. It was empty behind him.

The Empress Dowager suddenly shouted harshly, “Emperor!”

She had given her entire life to the Yan Imperial Clan. Just before death, she suddenly found that she hated the previous emperor.

Her gaze swept Yan Jin Qiu for the last time. She had caused the death of this child’s mother and separated the child from his father. Before death, she would help him once.

“Emperor, treat aijia’s Zi Ling well. He is a ilial child.”

She had said this in front of so many people. Even if the Emperor wanted to do something in the future, he could not take this child’s life.

She only hoped…

The magni icence of when she had ascended the phoenix throne in the past lashed through her mind. A smile loated at the corner of her mouth and she breathed her last.

Yan Jin Qiu felt the hand in his palm suddenly tremble and then become motionless.

He stilled and his index inger trembled as he moved it to her nose. His gaze gradually became sorrowful. “Imperial Grandmother!”

Hua Xi Wan looked dazedly at the woman on the phoenix bed. The most noble and powerful woman in the Yan Imperial Dynasty had died like

this?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Eighty-Nine: Burial

“Dong.”

“Dong.”

The funeral bells rang out from the imperial palace and sounded seven times before stopping.

In the heavenly prison, the Empress sat dispiritedly on the ground. A moment later, she said, laughing and crying, “It’s over, all over.”

She had married the Emperor after coming of age and then became the empress later on before giving the Emperor children. She had been fated to a glorious life, but why did it suddenly reverse and she become imprisoned?

If the Empress Dowager were still alive, the Fang Family would have a chance. Now that the Empress Dowager was dead, everyone thought that it had been her who killed the Empress Dowager. Their entire Fang Family…

Before the Empress Dowager died, she had not forgotten to praise Xian Wang for being ilial. So under the scribe’s pen, there was an additional

line about Yan Jin Qiu.

The Empress Dowager said before death: “Ziling is a ilial son. Aijia has no fears before death but is only worried about this one and hopes that the Emperor will treat him well.”

All of Jing put on their mourning attire. In order to show his ilialness to the Empress Dowager, the Emperor disregarded his own status and put on hemp clothing for the Empress Dowager. He also stopped eating meat. Whenever he mentioned how well the Empress Dowager had treated him, he couldn’t help but sob loudly.

Qilong Emperor’s actions inally won him back some of his ilial reputation. Even though many people still thought he was acting, at least it could pass on the surface.

The rumors about the Empress poisoning the Empress Dowager had been completely transformed as they spread. Maybe it was because people would innately have some respect for those who had passed away. Consequently, in these rumors, it was mostly how evil the Empress had been, and how hard it had been for the Empress Dowager to live alone in the palace.

There were also people who said that the Empress had purposefully had the Empress Dowager eat ginseng and other medicines that had gone bad, and had mistreated the Empress Dowager.

The Empress’ reputation dropped to a level of her being labeled a calamitous evil wife. Many storytellers described the Empress as a demoness who only knew to scheme and plan. Otherwise, how come the Crown Prince was so bad? It was because the Empress had not taught the Crown Prince well.

“People always like to blame the shortcomings of the child on the mother for not raising the child well. Yet if the child is outstanding, it would be because the father breeds true.” Hua Xi Wan played with the plain silver hairpin in her hand and slowly inserted it in her hair. She wiped away all the powder on her face. “While the Empress is not a good person, she is not as bad as the rumors say. She just…”

Hua Xi Wan suddenly stopped talking and looked at Yan Jin Qiu, who was beside her, dressed in hemp robes. “The rumors…”

“Nothing to do with me.” Yan Jin Qiu picked out a plain silver bangle to put on Hua Xi Wan’s hand and then looked at the three plain silver hairpins in her hair. “The Empress has already dropped so low; I will not waste energy acting against her.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled upon hearing this. “I’m not asking about this rumor, but the rumors about the imperial grandson.”

“That was a warning from the heavens.” Yan Jin Qiu adjusted his outer robe. While the hemp outer robe was rough, he was still wearing a comfortable silk robe under it, so it wasn’t too uncomfortable. “The

people only like to believe what they think by themselves, and it doesn’t have much to do with me.”

“Haha.” Hua Xi Wan took off the plain silver bangle that Yan Jin Qiu had put on her and said, “It is the mourning period; this cannot be worn.”

Looking at Hua Xi Wan’s unmade face, Yan Jin Qiu sighed. “I always don’t bear for you to be the least bit slighted i.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled and reached out to pinch his ear. “Silver-tongued.”

He clasped Hua Xi Wan’s hand and then put a kiss on her cheek. “These are words from the heart.

“Have you ever heard a saying?”

“Which one?”

Hua Xi Wan laughed and said, “Rather than believe a man’s mouth, believe that you will see ghosts in daylight.”

“Nonsense.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled helplessly. He hadn’t expected that Hua Xi Wan would dare to say such unconventional things. He reached out

to pull her into his embrace. “Other people cannot hear you say such things.”

“You aren’t other people.” Hua Xi Wan threw a lirty look at him. Seeing Yan Jin Qiu’s gaze heat up, she pushed him away and stood up to neaten her clothing. “Wang Ye, prepare to enter the palace. This is the mourning period.”

Grimacing helplessly, Yan Jin Qiu stood. “I understand.”

The two of them had to go to the palace every day to cry for the Empress Dowager. Given the intense heat, the Imperial Astronomers calculated the day and decided to have the Empress Dowager be buried after fourteen days. That was already the closest auspicious date.

There were numerous basins of ice placed around the gold cof in of the Empress Dowager. When the ice was half melted, new ice had to be brought in to prevent the Empress Dowager’s corpse from rotting. But even so, when Hua Xi Wan walked into the hall, she still felt the mix of the fragrances and candles was uncomfortable.

She knelt on the prayer mat and listened to the sobs of the mourners. She threw the paper money in the basin. Through the lame, she glanced at the cof in of the Empress Dowager and felt a complex array of emotions. The Empress Dowager could be said to be one of the people who had laughed to the end. Who would have thought she would die like this?

She didn’t believe that the Empress was the one who did this. Maybe the Emperor also didn’t believe it, but the evidence for this crime was too complete. Maybe if the Emperor stood up to speak for the Empress and the case had no way of being reversed, then in the eyes of the people, the Emperor would be thought to be protecting the Empress and deliberately stalling for time.

The Empress had accompanied the Emperor for so many years. But now that someone had schemed against her, her man would not come out to speak for her out of fear that his reputation would be ruined.

A white igure knelt down next to Hua Xi Wan. She turned and glanced at the person. She lowered her head slightly. “Crown Princess.”

“Greetings, Xian Wang Fei.” The Crown Princess threw a few of the paper money into the burning basin and then used a handkerchief to touch her eyes that were red but empty of tears. “Wang Fei looks thinner—please take care of your body.”

“It was just because of not sleeping well these past days,” Hua Xi Wan said with lowered eyes. “Crown Princess, you have just given birth to the imperial grandson—why are you able to come here?” If she wasn’t wrong, the Crown Princess should still be in her recovery?

“I just wanted to see the Empress Dowager before she was buried.” After Lin shi said this, she threw another stack of paper money into the ire. Watching as the ire in the basin grew, she said expressionlessly,

“When I heard that Wang Fei was here, I wanted to come and see even more.”

Hua Xi Wan did not know what her words meant so she remained silent.

“I heard that Wang Fei’s tang jie has become engaged to my elder brother?” Lin shi did not care that Hua Xi Wan was silent and spoke directly. “My brother is a reliable person. The Hua Family’s daughter does not have to worry about being slighted being married to him.”

Hua Xi Wan continued to burn paper so that the ire in the basin would not go out. “In this mourning hall, I think it is not appropriate to speak of this topic.”

“You are right.” Lin shi kowtowed three times to the Empress Dowager’s cof in and then threw all of the paper money in her hand into the basin. “It really is not the best time to speak of such joyful news here.”

Hua Xi Wan detected that something was wrong with the Crown Princess. After frowning, she hesitated and then said, “Crown Princess, please take care of yourself. His Highness the imperial grandson still needs you.”

Lin shi smiled. It really was inappropriate for this smile to appear in the mourning hall, but Hua Xi Wan saw the endless pain in this smile.

“I once thought that if I had not married into the Imperial Family, I would have been very happy to be close to a female like you.” Lin shi lightly grasped Hua Xi Wan’s hand. “But there are no maybes in this world. Xian Wang Fei, I hope that you will not be the same as us.”

After she said this, she stood up from the prayer mat, and made a deep bow to the Empress Dowager’s cof in before striding away.

“Crown Princess.” Hua Xi Wan detected that there really was something wrong. She turned back to look and only saw Lin shi’s determined and straight back.

She stilled for a while. When she turned and saw the ire in the basin was about to go out, she hurriedly threw some paper money in. Her brow unconsciously furrowed.

At this time, someone else knelt down next to her. It was Xu Wang Shizi Fei. The two of them nodded at each other and then started to silently do this boring duty.

One hour later, Ning Wang Shizi Fei and Sheng Junwang Fei took over their positions and they could inally slowly walk out of the mourning hall on numb legs. There were many more members of the Imperial House waiting outside. Each of them had sorrowful expressions, as though the Empress Dowager had been someone extremely important to them.

Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Xi Wan walk out moving awkwardly and knew that her knees were in discomfort after kneeling for so long. He couldn’t resist helping her to sit on one of the wooden chairs. But in public, he couldn’t do anything else and only touched the palm of her hand lightly.

Xu Wang Shizi Fei sat down on the opposite side. She and Hua Xi Wan exchanged a look and the two exchanged nods again.

Xu Wang Shizi Fei thought, if this was not the mourning hall for the Empress Dowager, Xian Wang probably couldn’t resist massaging Xian Wang Fei’s knees for her. She had originally thought that Xian Wang was insincere towards Xian Wang Fei, but now she thought that if this was not true love, then Xian Wang was too scary. Because how vicious could a person be to themselves if they could act like this?

After the younger members of the Imperial House inished their shifts in kneeling, they would return to their fu on carriages with white lanterns before repeating this whole process on the next day.

The day when the Empress Dowager was buried, the weather was exceptionally clear. The sun in the sky was enough to bake people.

Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu sat on the carriage. Whenever the procession stopped, they had to get off the carriage to kneel until the of icial of rites said they could rise before they could get on the carriage and move forward again.

After doing this for half of the way, Hua Xi Wan felt that she was being dried into human jerky. She secretly took a few drinks of cold tea inside the carriage before she felt better.

After transporting the cof in into the imperial tomb, the Empress Dowager was buried with the previous emperor with the name of Benevolent and Harmonious Empress Dowager. When the doors to the emperor’s tomb were closed, all of the people who had come performed the three bows and nine kowtows. The Emperor recited a prayer that he had written before ordering everyone to rise.

Before getting on the carriage, Hua Xi Wan couldn’t help but look at the emperor’s tomb behind them. She felt unspeakably bleak.

“Careful of your step.” Yan Jin Qiu held her hand lightly and said gently, “It is hot outside, go in.”

Turning back to look at the man beside her, Hua Xi Wan smiled and then stepped onto the stool to get into the carriage.

Yan Jin Qiu followed in. When he entered, he saw Hua Xi Wan’s forehead beaded in sweat and took out a brocade handkerchief hidden in his sleeve. He wiped the sweat carefully from her face. “Have a good nap when we get back.”

Hua Xi Wan reached to grip his hand and said with a smile, “All right.”

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ninety: The Hua Family’s Daughter

The twenty- irst day after the Empress Dowager’s burial, Qilong Emperor managed to come out of his sorrow. He elevated the Benevolent and Harmonious Empress Dowager to the Benevolent, Harmonious and Humane Empress Dowager. When he spoke of how good she had been to him, he couldn’t help but cry.

“Zhen’s mother passed away early on, and so zhen was raised by Mother-Empress. Mother-Empress was benevolent and disliked luxury. She did her best to teach the imperial sons and grandsons. She should have been living out her days in peace but…” When he got to this point, Qilong Emperor choked and waved his hand for the taijian behind him to recite the decree for him.

“Zhen has been married to Fang shi for nearly three decades. Fang shi would do everything personally for zhen. Zhen thought that Fang shi was virtuous and bestowed the title of empress to her, never expecting that she would be evil inside and poison the Empress Dowager. Zhen is both pained and sorrowful…”

The imperial decree was very long, and people inally understood what this imperial decree was. Namely, zhen is innocent, zhen has also been fooled by the Empress, zhen also regrets it now but has been married to Fang shi for so long. Therefore, zhen has decided to demote the Empress to a commoner and for her to work in the laundry department. Zhen is willing to take some of the crime for Fang shi and will write out prayers for the Empress Dowager every day in hopes that the Empress Dowager will have both good fortune and longevity in her next life.

Furthermore, as for the Fang Family that helped the Empress conduct such evil, those executed will be executed, those exiled will be exiled, some will be sent to the army and some will become palace prostitutes. You don’t need to ask mercy for them.

When the Emperor’s decree came out, it didn’t just absolve him of all guilt but also gave an impression of him being an emperor who cared but was not indecisive. No matter how useful this was regarding the members of the Imperial Family, at least some of the people were fooled and the focus of the discussion was on Fang shi.

The Empress poisoning the Empress Dowager was a shocking matter, so when Qilong Emperor wrote out his decree, it was announced to the world for everyone to see his decisiveness and hardship.

Fang Family had fallen, the Crown Prince was dead, the Empress was demoted to a commoner and sent to the laundry department in the palace to be a low-level servant. Princess Rui He whom no one had dared to touch in the past immediately became low-key. The beautiful manservants in the princess fu were let go, and she said that she was ill and would not see guests.

While she was trying to be low-key, Princess Rui He was still an eyesore for the people whom she had once bullied. No one was moving against her now because they did not want a reputation of hitting a person when they are down. However, after the matter cooled down, it was unknown if these prestigious and noble families would still have such good conduct.

Princess Rui He had the identity of an imperial daughter, so no one dared to move against her now. But Min Huai Junzhu was in an awkward state. Everyone in Jing knew that her support had been the Empress and Princess Rui He. First the Empress had fallen, and then Princess Rui He hid in her princess fu and wouldn’t come out. Min Huai Junzhu became the target of mockery for the other noble girls.

A junzhu without any power or any support only looked honored on the surface. She would occasionally appear at poem meetings and banquets. The womenfolk who had once been bullied by Princess Rui He were polite on the surface but were actually making things dif icult for her. Yet she could only endure it. Also, because of the identity of some of the women, if she wanted to refuse the invitation, that would give them an excuse to act against her.

Her uncertain status caused her to become even more careful. She rejoiced on the inside that, because they had to mourn for the Empress Dowager, banquets could not be held and she did not need to appear frequently.

After the Hundred Day Mourning Period passed, the prestigious and noble families in Jing started to have low-key events. Even though they could not be too ostentatious, activities such as poetry and tea conferences, funerals or weddings could continue.

The Min Huai Junzhu whom people used to praise for her talent did not showcase her talents. Her poems were average, and she did not try to take the glory from others. But even so, people were at odds with her.

After inishing an awkward poetry meeting, Min Huai Junzhu was sitting on the carriage to go back to the fu when the carriage suddenly stopped. Then she heard the servant driving the carriage say that there was a qinwang procession passing by and her carriage needed to make way.

She raised a corner of the curtain and saw a six-horse carriage with an almond yellow roof embroidered with four-clawed golden dragons passing by. When she saw the character Xian on the jade tablet hanging from the carriage, her expression became slightly dazed.

So it was a carriage of Xian Wang Fu.

Just at that instant, the curtain on the carriage was suddenly lifted up. A face that was unadorned but could dazzle countless men appeared. Min Huai Junzhu’s hand tightened around the curtain. Hua Xi Wan?

Hua Xi Wan hadn’t expected that she would encounter Yuan Shu Yi in a situation like this. She nodded politely and gave a faint smile to the other.

“What are you looking at?” Yan Jin Qiu moved closer to her and looked outside. Seeing it was a carriage of a woman, he immediately had no interest. He turned away and said, “Just now when I was in the marquis fu’s yard, I accidentally encountered the daughter of Assistant Minister Hua’s family.”

Hua Xi Wan stared blankly for a moment before reacting. Yan Jin Qiu was speaking of her eldest female cousin Hua Yi Liu. Detecting that his expression wasn’t right, she frowned and said, “What about her?” She and her eldest female cousin did not have matching personalities, so they were relatively distant. The other hadn’t wanted to be close to her recently, so she didn’t know what Eldest Tangjie had done to make Yan Jin Qiu unhappy.

“If Assistant Minister Hua doesn’t bear to lose his daughter, then he should raise her well.” Yan Jin Qiu did not speak too harshly for Hua Xi Wan’s sake. “She is a divorced woman; it would be good for her to stay in the fu with a calm mind.”

Today, he had originally accompanied Hua Xi Wan back to her paternal family for a visit. In order for Xi Wan to have time alone with her family, he had deliberately said he was going to stroll in the yard and admire the chrysanthemums. Who knew that he coincidentally encountered the eldest miss of the Hua Family, and the other had said some unclear things.

Thinking about his wang fei going to the Zhou Family to play the villain for this woman, and this woman turning around to target his wang fei’s man, Yan Jin Qiu felt disgusted. What kind of woman hadn’t he seen before, what hadn’t he heard before? He could understand what Hua Yi Liu thought.

He felt angered on behalf of Hua Xi Wan, but he did not want to tell this matter to her and dirty her ears.

Even though Yan Jin Qiu was not explicit, with Hua Xi Wan’s understanding and a bit of thought, she would understand what he implied.

As she let the curtain down, Hua Xi Wan’s brow seemed slightly helpless. She hadn’t thought that Hua Yi Liu would have such thoughts. She turned to look at the man beside her. A strong brow, a beautiful appearance, a handsome presence—he really was a calamity that could attract women.

Thinking about this, she sighed. Originally, Second Tangjie Hua Chu Yu’s marriage had been set, but because of what happened in the Imperial Family, her marriage to Lin Zheng De had been delayed. In the end, the date was set for one month later.

She only hoped that no other Imperial Family member with status died in this month. Otherwise, this marriage would have to be delayed even more.

It seemed that their Hua Family daughters all had a hard time with their marriages. She only hoped that after the hardship, Second Sister would get a person who could accompany her to the end of her days.

Watching as Xian Wang Fu’s carriage moved away, Min Huai Junzhu put down the curtain in disappointment. A moment later, she said, “Go.”

The day when Hua Chu Yu married, the sky was blue and without clouds. Hua Xi Wan personally put the dragon and phoenix hairpin in her hair and then took the veil the joy attendant handed her. She slowly put it on her cousin. “While Second Sister is marrying into the Lin Family today, you will forever be a daughter of the Hua Family, always my jiejie. Do not be afraid—we are all standing behind you.”

The veil moved slightly. Hua Chu Yu gripped Hua Xi Wan’s hand tightly. A moment later, she said, “Meimei, don’t worry.”

Hua Xi Wan’s mind moved and she clasped Hua Chu Yu’s hand. At this time, ireworks sounded from outside the gates. She turned to look at Yao shi who was wiping away her tears and patted the back of Hua Chu Yu’s hand. “Take care of yourself.”

“All right.” Hua Chu Yu’s voice was slightly choked. The sound of people outside the door came close. She slowly released Hua Xi Wan’s hand. When the ireworks were set off outside the door, she was sitting digni iedly.

As a daughter of the Hua Family, even when she married, she should have the style and presence of the Hua Family. What she represented wasn’t just herself, but the entire Hua Family. Also, the Hua Family was the family behind her, so what did she have to fear?

The moment the door opened, Hua Xi Wan saw Lin Zheng De’s appearance. He was tall and handsome, the red robes of a groom

making his white teeth and red lips stand out. However, his features were strong and gave people the feeling of him being reliable.

Hua Chu Yu’s younger brother Hua Cong Pu bent down to carry Hua Chu Yu and help her into the lower sedan among the burst of ireworks.

Lin Zheng De bowed to the elders of the Hua Family before getting onto his horse and leaving with the sedan while beaming with happiness

Watching as the lower sedan moved away, Yao shi inally could not stop the tears and covered her face to cry. Hua Xi Wan comforted her, and when she turned, she saw Hua Yi Liu looking expressionlessly in the direction in which Hua Chu Yu’s sedan had left. She didn’t know what the other was thinking.

As if detecting that Hua Xi Wan was looking at her, Hua Yi Liu suddenly turned around. She glanced at Hua Xi Wan with a strange expression before turning and entering the gates.

Bai Xia and Hong Yin who were standing behind Hua Xi Wan noticed Hua Chu Yu’s gaze and frowned. What did Eldest Miss mean?

“Miss…” Hua Chu Yu’s servant girl carefully examined her dark expression. “Wang Fei just now…”

Hua Yi Liu stopped moving and turned to glare at the servant girl. Her eyes were full of dark anger. “So what if she is the wang fei? Do I have to serve her?”

The young servant girl was shocked. What was going on with Miss? Wang Fei clearly hadn’t meant anything just now. The miss’ words were overboard.

“Of course I cannot compare to Hua Chu Yu who can marry the shizi of a marquis to become the future Marchioness.” Hua Yi Liu laughed coldly. “The wang fei and the marchioness are people on the same path. Whereas I, a married and divorced woman—what do I count for?”

“My good miss, this is Third Master’s fu.” When the servant girl heard these words, she was so frightened she changed expression. She hurriedly turned to look around the surroundings. “Do not say more.”

Hua Yi Liu jerked the corners of her mouth in a smile. She looked at the bright red hanging around the yard and slowly lowered her face. She inally recovered her normal calm and stoic appearance.

“Wang Ye?” Mu Tong bowed and said carefully, “Wang Fei is still waiting for you.”

“I know.” Yan Jin Qiu looked unconcernedly at Hua Yi Liu’s back and then lightly to Mu Tong. “After we return, tell this to Wang Fei. There is no need to conceal it.”

It would be a simple matter for him to take care of Hua Yi Liu, but he did not want to have unneeded misunderstandings between him and Hua Xi Wan. It was better to have the matter in the open and for Hua Xi Wan to take care of it herself.

It would not be pro itable to cause disharmony between husband and wife for such an unimportant person.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ninety-One: Hang Oneself

When Hua Xi Wan heard what Yan Jin Qiu said, she did not feel surprised. She felt as though she had been waiting for this day. From childhood, she and Hua Yi Liu had different likes and personalities. If it wasn’t for the fact that their fathers were full-blood brothers, she would not like to interact much with people like Hua Yi Liu.

She didn’t feel any disappointment or fury that Hua Yi Liu had such hatred. In the end, it might even be because she had never treated Hua Yi Liu sincerely.

Hua Yi Liu was jealous of her and Second Sister, and she had never treated Hua Yi Liu with sincerity before, so it could not be blamed on anyone that the three of them had turned out like this now.

It could not be said who had been wrong in this situation. No one owed anyone. It was just that the roads they chose were different, they went in different directions, and so they would have different lives.

“Send her to the monastery for two years to clean her mind.” Hua Xi Wan knew that Yan Jin Qiu giving her this matter to take care of meant leaving Hua Yi Liu alive. If he was the one to take care of this, would she keep her life?

“Wang Fei,” Bai Xia said worriedly. “Eldest Miss has thoughts like this. If…”

“What if?” Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow and said, “Will I really do something like kill my sister to ight for a man?”

Bai Xia stilled and was bewildered.

“A man who has you in his heart will not need you constantly scheming.” Hua Xi Wan looked at herself in the mirror. “Emotion as a result of scheming is just an illusion. It can fool others but not your own heart. A man who is truly worthy of the rest of your life should not allow his woman to ight against other women, but should control himself.”

“This servant did not think it through. Wang Fei, do not think about this.” Bai Xia had served Hua Xi Wan for many years and knew her personality. Since Hua Xi Wan had said this, then she would not be moved. Bai Xia turned to say, “This servant knows what you mean. Wang Ye de initely isn’t someone who would look around. What this servant’s worried about is, after Eldest Miss goes to the monastery, what to do if she does something detrimental to you?”

“She will not have a chance.” Picking a silver hairpin out of the box and inserting it in her hair, Hua Xi Wan said serenely, “If she enters the monastery, before she thinks it through, she will not be able to see any outside guests.”

She won’t take Hua Yi Liu’s life but that did not mean she was so saintly as to let Hua Yi Liu do as she wished. A monastery that did not take guests and was guarded by the people from the wang fu was most suitable to Hua Yi Liu.

Three days later, the di daughter of Assistant Minister Hua went to a monastery to cultivate herself. Aside from the two servant girls who entered the monastery with her, there was no one else accompanying her.

Hua Qing Mao was astride on his horse as he watched the doors to the monastery close in front of him. His mood was low and complicated. He turned back to look at the carriage with the insignia of Yi’an Marquis Fu and went in front of the carriage with pressed lips. “Big Brother, Jiejie has entered the monastery.”

He didn’t know what his elder sister had done that had displeased both Father and Mother. Even Eldest Uncle and Third Uncle who never meddled in the affairs of his family had agreed to this. He was young, but he was not ignorant. Eldest Sister had de initely done something wrong that would affect the entire Hua Family, to cause them to make this decision.

“This year’s Spring Examination has been delayed a year due to the matters of the palace. You are young now; stay at home and study. I hope that by next year, our Hua Family will have another graduate.” Hua Chang Bao raised the curtain. He was the heir of the marquis fu and the eldest son of the main branch. Consequently, he was interested in the future of Hua Qing Mao. “Eldest Miss will not be slighted in the monastery. Do not worry.”

No great prestigious family was supported by one person or one female. Therefore, it was good for the Hua Family to have a good junior. Hua Qing Mao was a good scholar. It would not be pro itable if he was affected in next year’s exams due to his mother Zhang shi and Hua Yi Liu.

“Big Brother, thank you for the reminder; this brother will remember.” When Hua Qing Mao heard this, his mind eased. Since Eldest Cousin had said this, then his elder sister de initely wouldn’t be slighted in the monastery.

“En.” Hua Chang Bao saw that he was a person with a clear mind and added, “Our action is for her bene it. She has offended a noble personage. It is possible that she might lose her life. It is a good outcome for her to have some peaceful days in the monastery.”

Hua Qing Mao was shocked. When he looked at Hua Chang Bao, the other’s mouth was close. His thoughts turned and he knew that he couldn’t keep asking. After noting it down, he decided to bury this matter in his mind to prevent bringing calamity to the Hua Family.

Seeing him act like this, Hua Chang Bao was even more satis ied. No wonder his younger sister had written to him to have him nurture his younger cousin more. It seemed that his sister was right.

When he thought of Hua Xi Wan, Hua Chang Bao sighed inwardly. No matter how well Xian Wang treated his younger sister, he didn’t feel

reassured. The Imperial House was turbulent, and given his younger sister’s position, it was a dream to hope that she would not be pulled in.

“Wang Ye, the Hua Family has sent the eldest miss to the Clear Water Monastery in the Jing suburbs. Should our people still act?” Mu Tong handed over the secret report. He carefully looked at Yan Jin Qiu who was reading at his desk. “Wang Fei doesn’t seem to be close to this eldest miss.”

“The Hua Family is very smart. Our people have no need to act.” Yan Jin Qiu glanced over at Mu Tong. “Before the master speaks, a servant should not think too much.”

“This one has overstepped. Wang Ye, forgive me.” Mu Tong broke into a cold sweat and knelt in front of Yan Jin Qiu. Because the plans he had made had gone smoothly recently, he had forgotten himself. Now that Wang Ye reminded him, he found to his shock that he had overstepped his position. “This one will be careful in speech and conduct in the future, and not repeat the mistake of today.”

“Rise.” Yan Jin Qiu’s tone was calm as he said, “Wang Fei thinks highly of your ability. Ben wang will give you one more chance. If you make the same mistake in the future, I will not keep you by my side.”

“This one will remember.” After Mu Tong retreated out of the study, he found that there was a ine sweat on his back. Thinking about what Wang Ye had just said, he instinctively looked in the direction of the main yard. He rejoiced that he had taken care when he had been

running errands for Wang Fei and had received her favor. Otherwise, today’s matter would not have been so easily smoothed over.

“Three Pure Ones protect.” Mu Tong couldn’t help but bow towards the sky and then slapped himself to make sure he wouldn’t forget.

During her noon nap, Hua Xi Wan felt that she was having a very strange dream. Between her dream and awake state, she saw a blue phoenix suddenly fall off a mulberry tree whose trunk was so high that she could not see the earth. She looked around. A strong wind suddenly rose and then she was slammed by this wind onto the tree branch.

The moment she reached out, she found to her shock that her hands had become a pair of golden glittering wings. She looked speechlessly at the misty surroundings. She had become a bird person?

“Wang Fei, wake up.”

“Wang Fei, the Crown Princess hung herself in Zhu Que Palace!”

Hua Xi Wan immediately woke from her dream. When she opened her eyes, she found Bai Xia and Hong Ying at her beside. Her mind wasn’t able to react. “What?”

“Just now, Chief Steward Mu said that the Crown Princess hung herself and is dead.”

Hung herself and died?

Hua Xi Wan sat up dazedly. She rubbed her temple. “I need to get up. Get someone to help me change.”

After changing into a plain blue palace robe, Hua Xi Wan sat dazed in front of the mirror. Did Lin shi really hang herself, or was it a lie?

She suddenly thought of what Lin shi had said to her that day at the Empress Dowager’s mourning rites. At that time, she had felt that something wasn’t right because those words seemed to be like a last will.

Had Lin shi really committed suicide? She had waited until today for Lin Zheng De to marry Second Sister?

“What about the imperial grandson?” Hua Xi Wan thought of the child who wasn’t even half a year old. The saying was that a mother would be strong for the child. There de initely was a reason why Lin shi would choose to hang herself.

As she was deep in her thoughts, she suddenly heard Hong Ying say that her hair was made up. Hua Xi Wan raised her head to see herself with plain silver hairpins in her hair. She rose and said, “Is Wang Ye in the fu?”

“Wang Ye has not left the fu today,” Bai Xia said in a small voice. “Chief Steward Mu said as he left that Wang Fei can go anytime you wish to see Wang Ye.”

Hua Xi Wan did not usually go to the study. When she reached the gates to the study’s yard, she noticed that while the manservants around looked normal, they were extremely guarded. The moment when she stepped through the door, these people bowed in unison to her without any pause.

Because of how neat they were, Hua Xi Wan was shocked. People varied in the speed of their reactions, and these people had been doing different things. Unless they knew that she had come before she stepped in here, they would not have been so lawless.

Walking forward, when she came to the door to the study, she glanced at Mu Tong who was holding open the curtain for her and nodded slightly before she entered.

“You have come?” Seeing her come in, Yan Jin Qiu smiled and stood up. He pulled her to sit with him. Noticing her unusually plain appearance, his smile grew smaller. “You feel for the Crown Princess?”

Hua Xi Wan lowered her face to disguise the pity in her eyes. “I only feel pity for her. She is only a few years older than I am…”

“You are not the same as her; don’t make such a careless comparison.” Yan Jin Qiu pinched her earlobe to stop her from comparing herself to the unauspicious person who had died so early. “Lin shi hung herself out of helplessness. If she did not die, even her child would not survive.”

“The Empress Dowager’s death is related to her?” Hua Xi Wan quickly thought it through. “There are so many rumors around about the imperial grandson. People have even made her and Yan Bo Yi a couple. If she kept living, she would have to worry that the Lin Family would be affected if it was discovered she had poisoned the Empress Dowager, and even the imperial grandson would not be able to lift his head up. So she used death to prove her innocence. While she cannot wash away all suspicion, at least she left behind a virtuous reputation?”

Yan Jin Qiu hugged her. “Since you understand, do not let this matter affect your mood. I heard that if a woman is usually unhappy, she will not be beautiful.”

Hua Xi Wan slanted a look at him. “So you only like this face of mine?”

Yan Jin Qiu: …

How did the topic change into this?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ninety-Two: Mourning

While the reputation of the Crown Princess was not good when she died, because she had given birth to a son for the Imperial Family, even though her status as the crown princess only existed in name, the effect of her hanging herself was enormous in Jing.

It seemed that the Imperial House was cursed these recent years as people had continuously died. Someone said in private that it was because the Crown Prince had died at a bad time, a time that would bring bad luck to those close to him, so after he died, that was why so many other people in the Imperial House had died.

Yan Jin Qiu changed into a somber robe and sat with Hua Xi Wan to wait for the decree from the Imperial House. While the Crown Princess was of the same generation with them and they did not need to put on mourning attire, she had still been the crown princess and they could not allow any detail to be missed.

Theoretically, if the Crown Princess passed away, the members of the Imperial House should immediately go visit, but the situation was not the same now. The Crown Princess had not died with a good looking method, and there had been slanderous rumors about the Crown Princess a few days before. The cautious members of the Imperial Family did not want to be the irst to pop out, so they waited for the Emperor to send a decree.

Since the one who died was the Emperor’s daughter-in-law, regardless of whether they were truly grieving or pretending, they didn’t need to compete for irst at this time.

The news that the Crown Princess had hung herself did not leak to the common people. Otherwise, the Imperial House would have been shamed. So two hours later, no one was surprised when the news circulating among the common people was that the Crown Princess had passed away due to sickness.

In Zhu Que Palace, the Emperor looked at the white mourning hall. After a long silence, he suddenly staggered and blood seeped from the corner of his mouth.

“Emperor!” Ma gonggong’s expression changed, and he immediately went forward to support Qilong Emperor carefully.

“Shut up!” The Emperor imperceptibly wiped away the blood at the corner of his mouth and then put the handkerchief with the blood into his sleeve. “Announce zhen’s decree—order all noblewomen above third grade in Jing to mourn for the Crown Princess.”

Ma gonggong released Qilong Emperor’s hand, taking a step back and then bowing. “Should the wangfei and junwang fei in Jing also…”

“The Crown Princess was the future empress and of peerless status. Since she has passed away, they should come to mourn her.”

Ma gonggong buried his head lower. “This servant will pass on the decree now.”

The Emperor waved his hand and slowly turned to walk out of Zhu Que Palace. The farther he walked, the calmer his expression was until he came to Cheng Zhang Palace. He raised his head to look at the dragon pillar in front of the palace gates, the intimidating dragon, the glittering scales, the sharp claws. A moment later, he lowered his head and smiled disdainfully to disguise the loneliness in his eyes.

In the past, he had done anything and everything to get the throne, eliminated others and became the one honored and glori ied. Now, he had truly become someone who was alone. Was it retribution for having killed his brothers in the past?

While in a daze, he seemed to have heard the cry of an infant. His mind immediately shook. He turned to the palace maid behind him and said, “Where’s the imperial grandson? Have Xiao Mazi deliver him to Guang Yang Hall.”

The palace maid stilled slightly and said tentatively, “Emperor, Ma gonggong has left the palace to deliver the decree.”

Hearing this, the Emperor inally remembered that he had Xiao Mazi leave the palace.

“Then send someone to get the imperial grandson. Be careful, do not drop or bump him.” He inhaled slowly. No matter what, at least he still had this child.

“What, Father-Emperor is having the qinwang fei mourn as well?” Princess Rui He sneered and said, “Just a widowed crown princess— what face does she have?”

Just as she inished talking, she heard a servant outside say that Cheng Zhang Palace’s chief steward Ma gonggong had come to announce a decree.

Princess Rui He’s expression immediately became ugly. However, the cold treatment she had received in the past days had taught her how to judge the circumstances. So in the span of a few breaths, the hate and discontent on her face disappeared without a trace as she stepped out of the inner room.

It was normal for the palace to decree for noblewomen above third grade to mourn. But it was slightly inappropriate to have people like the princess and qinwang fei mourn as well. Even if the Crown Prince had been alive, the Crown Princess did not qualify for all the womenfolk in the Imperial House to mourn for her, much less when the Crown Prince was dead. She wasn’t the empress dowager or the empress.

Also, there had been those rumors about the Crown Princess before she died. The Crown Prince also had a terrible reputation. What nobility did

the Crown Princess have that the wang fei and princesses had to go mourn for her?

After the imperial decree came, some of the older members of the Imperial Family almost couldn’t breathe. Some of the old taifei could not stand due to “illness” and had their juniors go into the palace to pray and mourn for the Crown Princess.

Qilong Emperor’s action caused discontent among the Imperial House members, but out of consideration for the unfortunate events that had occurred to the Emperor in this year—the death of his son, adoptive mother, and daughter-in-law, and the actions of his own wife—people gritted their teeth and swallowed their anger. Those alive should not argue with those who had passed away.

Xian Wang Fu naturally had received this decree. After Ma gonggong left, Hua Xi Wan found that Yan Jin Qiu’s expression wasn’t right. She knew that he was slightly discontent with this decree and said, “While I have not had many interactions with the Crown Princess, the Lin Family and the Hua Family are in-laws. I can be said to have a close relationship to her. It is right to burn some more incense for her.”

“I understand.” Yan Jin Qiu touched the silver hairpin in her hair with a smile. After ordering Bai Xia and the others to take care of Hua Xi Wan, he sat with Hua Xi Wan on the carriage to go to the palace.

After the two of them went to the Crown Princess’ mourning hall and paid their respects with incense, they went to Cheng Zhang Palace to

visit the Emperor. However, the taijian on duty at Guang Yang Hall said that the Emperor was not well. They did not insist and left after bowing in front of the hall gates.

“Who were the ones who just came?” In the slightly dim room, Qilong Emperor heard noise from outside and asked expressionlessly.

“Emperor, just now, it was Xian Wang and his wife coming to pay respects to you.” Ma gonggong knew that the Emperor was not in a good mood, so his voice was much quieter than usual. “They heard that you were not well and bowed at the gates before leaving.”

“Zhen recalls that Xian Wang Fei has great beauty. How is the relationship between husband and wife?” Qilong Emperor looked with narrowed eyes at the bow hanging on the wall. The bow was wrapped up in a black covering embroidered with lucky clouds. Because the room was too dark, he could not see the cloud patterns.

Ma gonggong hadn’t expected the emperor to ask such a question. After a moment, he said carefully, “They say that Xian Wang Fei is beautiful on the outside, and intelligent on the inside. Xian Wang likes her very much and doesn’t even have a concubine in the fu. They must be deeply in love.”

“Deeply in love…” Qilong Emperor’s tone was slightly wan, and when he said this, there was a hint of disdain. It frightened Ma gonggong into a sweat.

How come the Emperor was suddenly asking about Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei?

“Zhen also heard this in the past and thought that it was just rumors. Thinking about it now, these rumors might have some truth.” Qilong Emperor lowered his face slightly. “Tell me, out of him and Yan Bo Yi, who is more suited to be the crown prince?”

This was lightning on a clear day. Ma gonggong knelt down in fright and said tremblingly, “Your Majesty, forgive me. Your Majesty, forgive me.”

Seeing him so afraid, Qilong Emperor showed some satisfaction on his face. He raised a hand to indicate for the other to stand. “Go out; zhen will only be reassured if you are watching over Zhu Que Palace.”

Ma gonggong lowered his face and silently retreated.

The atmosphere in the mourning hall was extremely heavy. After the womenfolk offered up their incense, they sat and rested in the side hall. Because of how the Crown Princess had died so suddenly, while they all had their questions, no one dared to speak in this setting.

The Crown Princess was gone, and the moment her son had been born, lightning had struck the imperial tomb. That was a fate which was inauspicious. Adding on the rumors that he was not the Crown Prince’s son, the child’s status made him unsuitable to succeed the throne.

The imperial grandson could not succeed the throne, and the Emperor did not have any children of his own. Consequently, the next emperor would have to be picked from the Imperial House. In terms of bloodline, Sheng Junwang and Xian Wang were the most noble and appropriate. However, the rumors a while ago had been that Sheng Junwang had relations with the Crown Princess. Because Sheng Junwang had not attended to his duties properly, his position in court had been taken away.

Comparing the two…

Everyone glanced at Hua Xi Wan and Hou shi who were sitting side by side. Their actions were natural, as though there was no distance between them. They were really composed.

How could Hou shi not know what the women in the surroundings were thinking? She lowered her head and smiled coldly. She turned to look at Hua Xi Wan who had a sorrowful gaze. “Xian Wang Fei seems slightly thinner.”

“It most likely is because the last days have been so hot and I have not had a good appetite.” Hua Xi Wan’s expression was worried. “Yesterday, I had bad dreams, but did not expect the Crown Princess to pass away from illness.” When she said this, the rims of her eyes turned red. “My Hua Family and the Lin Family are in-laws.”

When the people in the surroundings heard this, they inally remembered that Xian Wang Fei’s older female cousin had married into the Crown Princess’ family. From that angle, the two really were inlaws.

However, some people were still surprised that Sheng Junwang was so active in engaging Xian Wang Fei. Did even Sheng Junwang Fei think that Xian Wang had a higher likelihood of succeeding to the throne?

So everyone went to look at Yi’an Marquise in the corner. But this Yi’an Marquise was composed. Even when people probed her, she did not say anything, and people were not able to ind anything to pick at.

Lu shi did not want to face these noblewomen who had their own aims, but she knew that ever since her daughter had married Xian Wang, she could not escape the ight for power. Their Hua Family would never go low to sell their daughter for glory and wealth, and naturally would also not bear to drag their daughter down.

If she could choose, she would rather her daughter marry into a normal prestigious family. Even if Xian Wang became the emperor in the future, she did not feel that marrying into the Imperial Family was a good choice.

When she thought of this, Lu shi glanced worriedly in Hua Xi Wan’s direction. Hua Xi Wan coincidentally was looking her way. Mother and daughter imperceptibly exchanged a look before moving their gazes away calmly.

As a mother, she naturally would not bear for her daughter to have hardship. As a daughter, how could she bear to see her parents and brothers land in the bog for her?

It was just because they could not bear for each other to suffer.

When Ma gonggong came to the side hall, all the noblewomen that should have come were present. He quickly scanned the crowd and then walked in front of Hua Xi Wan to bow to her. “Greetings to Xian Wang Fei. This servant has come with His Majesty’s orders to take care of matters for the Crown Princess’ mourning hall.”

The Crown Princess’ funeral rites were managed by the Ministry of Rites, but if the Emperor sent someone to help out, showing how highly he thought of a person, it was a kind of honor.

Ma gonggong was the chief steward of Cheng Zhang Palace and the highest-ranking taijian in the entire dynasty. It really was generous of the Emperor to send him to assist.

In the eyes of other people, the Emperor’s action might seem kind because the Crown Princess’ death was unclear and the stain on her had not been washed away. But to Hua Xi Wan and Hou shi who knew the truth, QIlong Emperor’s actions seemed laughable.

They really didn’t know—with what emotions had Qilong Emperor sent Ma gonggong?

As a father-in-law or… as a man?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ninety-Three: Layers of Conspiracy

While Hua Xi Wan knew of the affair between the Emperor and the Crown Princess, she only showed slight sorrow in her expression. She used her handkerchief to wipe at her slightly reddened eyes and said sadly, “Then, thank you for your trouble, Ma gonggong. The Crown Princess’s passing really makes the heart hurt.”

“Please, Wang Fei, do not grieve so much. If the Crown Princess knew how sad you are, she would not be able to rest in peace.” Ma gonggong also had a regretful face, but in front of the grieving Hua Xi Wan, he still tried to appear comforting.

“You are right.” Hua Xi Wan gave a forced smile. “Then you will be busy in the next while.”

“This servant doesn’t dare.” Ma gonggong was still respectful on the surface but was surprised inside. He had originally thought that Xian Wang Fei would be of a simple mind since she had been spoiled from birth by her father and brothers, and then cared for by Xian Wang after she married. But who knew that her speech and conduct was perfect?

As expected of a woman who had managed to establish herself as Xian Wang Fei and made it so that there wasn’t a concubine in the entire fu. How could she not have any skill at all at scheming? It was just that other people only looked at her appearance when they saw her.

Princess Rui He who had been ignored in the corner and was silent all this time looked on coldly at Ma gonggong and Hua Xi Wan’s attitude as they talked. Her brow creased slightly. There were many womenfolk present, and Hua Xi Wan was not the only qinwang fei. Then why did Ma gonggong go to greet her?

The more she thought, the uglier Princess Rui He’s expression was. She couldn’t help but turn back to look at Min Huai Junzhu in the other corner. She touched the white lower in her hair and calculation lashed through her mind.

The Empress had been deposed, and the Empress Dowager had passed away, so there wasn’t anyone in charge of the inner palace. The other imperial consorts had status but no children, so they were not able to stand up to arrange the inner palace. Therefore, after the Crown Princess died, some of the palace attendants who did not have brains started to have all kinds of thoughts, and the rumors that came out were unable to be stopped and were extremely lowly. Someone even said that the Crown Princess and the Emperor had had an affair. This enraged the Emperor and he had many people beaten to death.

Before the Crown Princess was even buried, rumors illed the world, and even passed among the common people. There was a daring person who had constructed a story about the Emperor and the Crown Princess called “Everlonging Song” that many people applauded.

The Guard Of ice wanted to investigate, but it was not easy to do so. These common novels had always existed, and this story was written to be extremely romantic as well as expressing love for the country and loyalty to the monarch. What reason could they use to stop the

spreading of the story? Say that this story was parodying the Imperial Family? Or that it was not a good in luence?

Wasn’t that confessing to its veracity?

Some rumors were ones that no one would take as the truth, but if one went to stop them, the rumor would spread even faster in private, and even those who did not believe the rumor before would believe it.

It was a pity that Qilong Emperor, who had such a good reputation for most of his life, ended up with such a name in his later years. Qilong Emperor also knew that he could not openly stop the spreading of the rumors among the people and, in the end, did not do anything. He turned and decided to marry the daughter of the famed scholarly Zhang Family’s cadet branch as empress.

The people quickly had new rumors. The Emperor privately visited the Zhang Family and happened upon the daughter of the Zhang Family. She was like a goddess from the heavens, and so the Emperor immediately asked to marry the daughter of the Zhang Family as empress.

As to how the Emperor had seen a daughter of a cadet branch when visiting the Zhang Family, and how could a normal girl see the Emperor who was heavily protected—the people did not care about these details. Many people swore that this daughter of the Zhang Family was devastatingly beautiful and even Xian Wang Fei could not compare to her.

Hua Xi Wan who was set up as the comparison felt speechless when she heard the rumors. What did the beauty of this Zhang Family daughter had to do with her?

She had originally thought that she could relax when the irst week after the Crown Princess’ death had passed. But the old emperor was about to marry again, and someone from Second Aunt’s paternal family. This was really interesting.

The Zhang Family daughter who was about to enter the palace as empress in two months had the name Qing Yan. Hua Xi Wan had never seen her before, but before her marriage, she had heard Second Aunt praise this girl for her beauty. She didn’t know anything else.

Given Qilong Emperor’s age, he shouldn’t be someone who was unable to move after seeing a beauty. But the rumors among the people were all about how the Emperor had fallen in love at irst sight with Zhang Qing Yan. Did Qilong Emperor want to wash away the stain of adultery?

What was more interesting to the people than the most noble man in the world falling in love at irst sight with a beauty?

Regardless of whether the Emperor had truly fallen in love or not, for his own reputation, he had to fall in love.

If the Emperor really had something with the Crown Princess, how could he easily fall in love with someone else? So the affair was just a rumor. It was some villains who were slandering the Emperor and the deceased Crown Princess.

This kind of people really lacked virtue to target someone dead.

The people liked to follow the crowd, or rather, they liked to gossip. The reality was not important to them. As long as the gossip was interesting, it was enough.

“Yan Bo Yi really does have skill to push the Emperor to this step.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at the rumors that his subordinate had gathered from among the common people. He threw the information to the side and his face suddenly darkened. He said, “But what is this Zhang Qing Yan? What does she have to compare with my wang fei?”

Mu Tong silently buried his head deeper.

“Woosh!”

A stack of papers landed by his feet. He bowed even deeper.

“Observe Yan Bo Yi closer. If he is going to act, we will give a helping hand.” Yan Jin Qiu inhaled deeply and stood from the desk. “To Wang

Fei’s.”

Hua Xi Wan did not know that her man was being petty because of rumors, as she felt that Yan Jin Qiu would not pay any attention to matters that even her family would not pay attention to. So it was only after the two had inished eating the noon meal and were alone that she detected something was wrong as Yan Jin Qiu’s words were full of displeasure about the daughter of the Zhang Family.

Was it that, because Second Aunt’s younger brother had offended Yan Jin Qiu, he disliked every member of the Zhang Family, and even Zhang Qing Yan of a cadet branch was affected?

“How do you know what this Miss Zhang is like—did you see her?” Hua Xi Wan lazily leaned on his shoulder and looked suspiciously at him from the corner of her eye. “Otherwise, how do you know so much about her?” Her Hua Family and the Zhang Family were in-laws, but she didn’t know as much as he did about a miss from a cadet branch.

“What are you thinking?” Yan Jin Qiu smiled helplessly. “It’s merely that this Zhang cadet branch really isn’t perceptive. Their daughter is just going to be a decorative empress in the palace, and they actually dare to use you as a stepping stone. They really think that my Xian Wang Fu doesn’t know what they are thinking?”

The Zhang Family had a good reputation of a few hundred years, but by now, only the main branch had some of the conduct that their ancestors did. The conduct of the cadet branches really could not enter the eye. If

it wasn’t that the Emperor was old and was marrying a second empress, how could it be their family’s turn to ascend the seat of the empress?

Also, the Zhang Family and the Emperor in secret…

Who in the main branch didn’t know what skill the Emperor had—who would bear to send their innocent daughter into the palace to be a puppet that could not talk or do anything?

“What thoughts?” Hua Xi Wan asked in puzzlement.

Yan Jin Qiu sneered and patted the back of her hand. He sighed and said, “The cadet branch of your Second Aunt’s paternal family is not a peaceful one. Where do you think those rumors that use you as a comparison come from?”

Hua Xi Wan immediately understood. “They are using me to elevate her?”

Yan Jin Qiu sighed and seemed to admit it. A moment later, he said, “I did not want to tell you because I worry you will think too much. Now that it is like this, I have to say it.”

Hua Xi Wan saw that his expression was solemn and sat up straight to prepare to listen to Yan Jin Qiu speak of the secret of the Zhang Family.

“The Zhang Family is a prestigious family that countless scholars revere but think—is the Zhang Family as high and noble as the rumors say?”

Hua Xi Wan thought of her second aunt and the great actions that the Zhang Family had taken in the previous dynasties and eras. She suddenly found that the great reputation that the Zhang Family had in the last few decades seemed to have been “promoted” by the Imperial Family.

“Rather than say that the present Zhang Family is a famed scholarly family, it’s more accurate to say that they are the loyal dogs of the Imperial Family. They appear to not compete for anything, but in truth, they are the eyes of the Emperor. Not only do they gather the scholars of the world, they even hold many secrets of prestigious families for the Emperor.” Yan Jin Qiu smiled coldly. “If it were the Zhang Family of a hundred years ago, they’d be worth being respected, but now…”

“That’s not right. If that’s the case, how come the Emperor really thought that I had no beauty?” Hua Xi Wan shook her head and said, “My second aunt knows how I look.”

“You think that any member of the Zhang Family works for the Emperor?” Yan Jin Qiu sighed and said, “Your second aunt is not very friendly towards you and desires that news detrimental to you would spread outside. How could she return to her paternal family and argue for you? She probably also contributed to the rumors about you in the past.” How could he say to Hua Xi Wan that with the Hua Second Aunt’s

mind and skill, the Zhang Family would not feel safe to let her do such mentally-intensive matters?

No matter how unlikable Zhang shi was, she was still a woman of the Hua Family. He would leave some face for his in-laws’s family.

Hua Xi Wan immediately had no words to respond with. Should she be grateful to Second Aunt for her sel less dedication?

“But it is fortunate that she was jealous of you. Otherwise, how could I marry you?” Yan Jin Qiu said with a smile. “It seems that even the heavens helped me. The will of heaven tells us we are a perfect match.”

Rather than say it was the will of heaven, it was more like a string of accidents. If Second Aunt hadn’t felt jealous, if Third Aunt hadn’t been discontent with the marquis fu, and if Eldest Tangjie hadn’t implied to Min Huai Junzhu out of jealousy that Hua Xi Wan had no beauty, then she and Yan Jin Qiu would not have this marriage.

Or maybe if her parents and brothers had not protected her so and spent so much effort, then she and Yan Jin Qiu would not have come to this.

…Is it possible that it really was a match fated in heaven?

She was a determined atheist. So she really felt it was a slap in the face to encounter something like rebirth.

“No wonder the Emperor gave Old Master Zhang a title after Second Aunt’s younger brother died, and also allowed the adoption of a child from a cadet branch. At the time, I thought that the Crown Prince had something to do with the death of Master Zhang. I didn’t think that there would also be such a cause,” Hua Xi Wan said emotionally. “I knew that that one isn’t that generous.”

Hearing Hua Xi Wan mention Master Zhang, Yan Jin Qiu’s eyes shifted slightly and then he said with a smile, “No matter what the Zhang Family plans, when they reached an agreement with the person above in the past, they also had to take the risk. The early passing of Master Zhang can only be blamed on their greediness.”

Hua Xi Wan scratched her chin and sighed inwardly. No wonder the members of the Imperial Family died early—their brains died from overwork!

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ninety-Four: Honest Talk

Zhang Qing Yan was just a second empress and not of the main branch, but she was still of the Zhang bloodline. With the Zhang Family’s reputation among the scholars, even before Zhang Qing Yan entered the palace, there were scholars who wrote essays and poems for her to praise her marriage to Qilong Emperor.

But even the grandest pomp and most beautiful praise could not disguise the reality that Qilong Emperor was old. A beautiful girl in her teens marrying a man older than her father—what else could she get except that noble phoenix seat?

But Zhang Qing Yan did not care. It was not important to her how the Emperor looked, or how old he was. What was most important was that she was going to become an empress, with her name recorded in the history books. How many women dreamed of this chance?

She listened to the songs of praise and respect, and even she thought that she was the most outstanding woman in the world. What talented and virtuous Min Huai Junzhu, what digni ied Sheng Junwang Fei, what peerlessly beautiful Xian Wang Fei? What were they next to her?

She was the empress, the most noble woman in the world. The noblewomen who had been once been praised by people had to kneel before her. How pleasurable was this?

“Miss, Old Zhang Taitai has come. Mistress asks you to go to the front hall to see the old taitai.” A servant girl came in and saw Zhang Qing Yan was reading. She said in a small voice, “Mistress said that the old taitai has seen many noble personages, and for her to advise you. It will be of bene it for you later in the palace.”

Zhang Qing Yan frowned upon hearing this. When she thought of the main family Zhang Taitai’s digni ied and almost proud face, she said, “When I went to the main family to pay my respects in the past, that one was aloof and remote. Now seeing our family about to rise, they want to come fawn; this is laughable.”

The servant girl heard the outrageous words and wanted to cover her ears and pretend that she did not hear them. But Miss was the future empress. She didn’t dare to show even the slightest bit of disrespect.

In the front hall, Old Zhang Taitai calmly put down the teacup in her hand and slowly wiped the corner of her mouth. “It seems that your miss has no time to see this old woman. That’s all right. It is late; I should return.”

“Old Taitai!” Mother Zhang’s face was lushed, but she was of a wooden personality and not skilled verbally. Seeing that her daughter had angered the taitai of the main family into leaving, she hurriedly stood to support Old Zhang Taitai.

Old Zhang Taitai had experienced the pain of losing her son, and her personality was peaceful now. She looked at the panicked Mother

Zhang, patted her hand lightly, and then left with a sigh.

People outside all thought that the Zhang Family was about to rise and prosper after this, but she felt that the Zhang Family had sunk into a bog that they could not climb out of. The Emperor was old and did not have a son. The imperial grandson was young and born with inauspicious signs. A naïve girl like Zhang Qing Yan—when she entered the palace which ate people, did she have the skill to give birth to an imperial son?

Something that even those scheming imperial consorts in the palace were unable to do, what great ability did Zhang Qing Yan have to accomplish?

Also, court was turbulent right now. With Zhang Qing Yan’s personality, it would be accumulating the good fortune of a few lifetimes if she could just survive, yet she wanted to have a child?

Old Zhang Taitai had a small disdainful smile. When she thought of her son who had died senselessly and of

that dirty Imperial Family, there was a hint of hate in her eyes.

When she was preparing to get on the carriage with the help of the servant girl, she suddenly saw the procession of a qinwang fei passing by outside the alley. She couldn’t resist looking and then turned to ask the servant girl, “Is that Xian Wang Feipassing by?”

The servant girl cautiously took a glance. “It seems to be Xian Wang Fei’s carriage.”

Old Zhang Taitai nodded. After entering the carriage, she sighed helplessly. Her son had died young, and her eldest daughter was worrisome. She wasn’t just jealous, she was also short-sighted. If it wasn’t that her son-in-law and Yi’an Marquis were full-blood brothers, she probably would have already offended the family of the Yi’an Marquis.

And her granddaughter who had been sent to a monastery. She didn’t know what her granddaughter had done to force the Hua Family who treated their children so well to do such a thing. It must have been major.

The only comfort she had was that her grandson knew to work and advance. He was also good friends with the younger generation. She had heard that even Xian Wang Fei was close to him. A few days ago, she had even had servants send the answers of graduates from past years to her grandson. It could be seen from her actions that the Hua Family placed great importance on her grandson.

None of the members of prestigious families could be separated from the support of their families. If the entire family ignored them, only if the entire dynasty changed, otherwise they would not have a chance in their entire lifetime.

The Holy One right now seemed to be in decline, while Sheng Junwang seemed to have great support, but compared to Xian Wang who was liked by the famous and the scholars, he lacked something inside.

If it was Xian Wang…

Old Zhang Taitai didn’t dare to keep thinking. She leaned against the wall of the carriage and started to rest.

She only prayed that Xian Wang did not know what Zhang Qing Yan’s family had done. Otherwise, with Hua shi’s place in Xian Wang’s heart, after the Holy One passed away, the Zhang Clan would be affected.

On this side, Hua Xi Wan did not know that the Zhang Family’s old taitai was pondering about her. She had come out today to see Hua Yi Liu.

A few days ago, Hua Yi Liu had made a fuss to see her, and Hua Xi Wan had ignored it. Who knew that she had gone mad in the past few days. She hadn’t just smashed things and injured the nuns of the monastery, she had tormented her servant girls. Hua Xi Wan could only come out.

In her memory, Hua Yi Liu had a silent personality but was not a brutal person. Now that she was like this, she had to visit Hua Yi Liu, even if it was just for her second uncle.

“Wang Fei, we’ve arrived.”

Hua Xi Wan held Hong Ying’s hand to get off the carriage. Then she exchanged a Taoist bow with the masters of the monastery before saying with a smile, “My sister has been resting in the monastery recently due to her health. It has been of trouble to Master.”

“The Three Pure Ones are benevolent; there is no trouble.” The female Taoist ushered Hua Xi Wan into the monastery and walked towards the west. Everyone came to a serene little yard. The female Taoist stopped and said, “Virtuous One, ahead is the yard where Householder Hua is residing. Please.”

“Many thanks, Master.” Hua Xi Wan led her servant girls and taijian into the yard. Before she entered the rooms, she heard the sound of smashing inside the room, and her brow creased slightly.

Hong Ying saw this and went forward to say loudly, “This servant is Hong Ying. Greetings to Miss.”

The room suddenly quieted. Moments later, the main door slowly opened. It was a young servant girl who timidly opened the door. She was wearing an old robe. When she saw that it was Hua Xi Wan, she shrank into the corner.

Hong Ying saw the young servant girl’s state, and her brow furrowed slightly. She looked towards the door and saw Hua Yi Liu sitting by the

yellow pear wood table. Hua Yi Liu was wearing a pale green dress. Her hair was in a lily hairstyle, and with a ruby and gold brooch inserted into it. It gave people a feeling of showing off.

“You inally came.” Hua Yi Liu took a sip of tea slowly and then slowly put down the teacup. She took out an embroidered handkerchief and wiped the corner of her mouth. “It really isn’t easy for your elder sister to see you.”

Hong Ying’s brow locked even tighter. Tang Miss’ tone seemed like what Wang Feiwould use. What did she want?

Hua Xi Wan’s gaze slowly swept across Hua Yi Liu’s wrist where a gold bangle embedded with jade rested and smiled faintly. “The weather is hot; it isn’t comfortable wearing gold bangles. This younger sister has two crystal bangles. If Elder Sister doesn’t mind, take them to play with.” She could see that Hua Yi Liu’s attitude towards her wasn’t right. She wasn’t one to return good for evil. Since the other did not give her face, she would not offer her face for the other to slap.

“Sister is now wang fei—what rare things do you not have? This sister is unlucky and cannot have these good things!” Hua Yi Liu sneered and swept the tea cups on the table to the ground. The ine porcelain immediately shattered. The young servant girl who had been in the corner was so frightened she gave a full body shudder, and she seemed to be terri ied by Hua Yi Liu’s action.

Seeing Hua Yi Liu’s ickle emotions, Hua Xi Wan was not angry. She sat down on a nearby chair and slowly fanned herself. She looked wryly at Hua Yi Liu. “For what has Jiejie called me here?”

“Let me out!” Hua Yi Liu stared at her with bright eyes. “I know that you can let me out!”

Hua Xi Wan stopped fanning herself. She raised her head and looked at the elegant decorations in the room. She sighed and said, “Meimei cannot satisfy Jiejie’s wish.”

“Why?! Why can you order me? So what if you are a wang fei—are you the only daughter of the Hua Family?”

Hua Yi Liu glared at Hua Xi Wan. If it wasn’t for the two servant women who were restraining her, she would have already jumped at Hua Xi Wan.

Hua Xi Wan saw Hua Yi Liu’s almost insane state, and a complicated feeling that could not be described rose inside her. “I had originally thought that Jiejie would be able to come back to a peaceful life after leaving that family. I didn’t think that it would really progress to this.”

The struggling Hua Yi Liu heard this, and her body stilled as though she was struck by lightning. A moment later, she covered her face and cried. “What do you think you know? You are the noble wang fei, the woman

whom all of Jing admires. When have you ever thought of my hardship?”

Hong Ying who usually was quick of mouth couldn’t help but say, “Tang Miss, it was Second Furen who decided your marriage. Even if it was unfortunate, what does it have to do with our Wang Fei? When you were in dif iculty, Wang Fei came to your husband’s family gates to support you as a married daughter. When has our Wang Fei owed you? You, on the other hand—you purposefully misled Min Huai Junzhuand caused the Imperial House to think that Wang Fei was without beauty. If it wasn’t for you…”

“If it wasn’t for you, I would not be where I am today.” Hua Xi Wan did not want Hong Ying to say too much. She looked at Hua Yi Liu who brimmed with anger and said disinterestedly, “I think that I have never done something wrong to Jiejie. Since Jiejie is full of anger towards me, then I have nothing to say.”

“From young, you were always better than me. Your father was the marquis, your father and your brothers loved you and protected you. What you do all day is admire lowers, eat good food, learn some martial skills, and then lazily pass the days. But me, I have to learn a woman’s skills all day, how to take care of the household. Even so, I am still not as good as you. Isn’t it just because you have a more beautiful face?” Hua Yi Liu sneered. “If your beauty was not there, would Xian Wang still fall in love with you?”

Hua Xi Wan heard this and said with a smile, “Then so what? Should I carve up my face to test my man’s thoughts?”

What Hua Yi Liu hated the most was Hua Xi Wan’s disinterested attitude, as though if she opened her mouth, what she wanted would be delivered to her. But they were all daughters of the Hua Family. Why did some people have good lives, and others had ones full of misfortune?

Even Hua Yi Liu did not know when she had started to be jealous of Hua Xi Wan. Maybe it was when her grandmother who was usually cool to everyone was especially gentle to Hua Xi Wan, or maybe when the outside rumors were that Hua Xi Wan had no beauty and yet she was still able to marry Xian Wang. Or maybe it was when her marriage was unfortunate whereas she had become the famous Xian Wang Fei, or maybe it was because who she liked was… She had once hoped that Hua Xi Wan could have a good life, but when Hua Xi Wan was having a good life and she could only live out her days in loneliness, she couldn’t help but feel hate.

She could not hate her parents, then Hua Xi Wan with her in inite scenery became the target to give vent to her emotions.

“Jiejie dares to be so harsh towards me because you rely on the tolerance I have for my paternal family.” The smile on Hua Xi Wan’s face slowly faded. “We have been cousins for more than a decade. You naturally know that I will not take your life for a man. But have you considered if the man you think about will even look at you or take your life?”

Hua Xi Wan grew bored of Hua Yi Liu and decided to spill it all. “The Hua Family sent you to the monastery in order to save your life. If you

really cannot think this through, I will not stop you. The Hua Family can protect you for now, but can they protect you for your entire life?”

Hua Yi Liu stilled. She wanted to say that the beautiful and gentlemanly Xian Wangcould not be such an emotionless and cold-blooded person, but she could not speak.

A moment later, she covered her mouth and leaned back weakly against the chair.

Seeing her like this, Hua Xi Wan stood and said in a calm tone, “If Jiejie can settle down, think of what you are to do in the future. The monastery is the clean palace for the Pure Ones. If you continue to make a fuss, it will not be good if you disturb the deities here.”

After saying this, she started to walk out. When she reached the door, Hua Yi Liu called her. She turned back. Hua Yi Liu was sitting on the chair and her expression was strange.

“Meimei’s words are true?”

Hua Xi Wan sighed. “Why would I lie to you about this?”

“I understand.” Hua Yi Liu bowed her head to disguise her emotions. A moment later, she raised her head and smiled at Hua Xi Wan. She said,

“Meimei, take care. Jiejie will not see you off.”

Hua Xi Wan nodded and her foot stepped over the doorway.

“Be careful on the road.”

Hua Xi Wan turned around. She saw that while Hua Yi Liu’s face was hidden in the shadow, her lips were pressed tightly together.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ninety-Five: Impossible to Grasp

Fortune and time were the most ruthless of blades. In the past before the three cousins had married, there had been jealousy, but it had not reached such a level. She and Hua Yi Liu should have been sisters who supported each other, but now they had become two awkward people with barriers between them.

Hua Xi Wan’s eyes were closed as she rested against the wall of the carriage. The carriage suddenly stopped. She frowned. This was the city suburbs. Why did the guards of the wang fu suddenly stop without any cause?

The captain of the guard who was in charge of protecting Hua Xi Wan looked at the old couple who was lying in the middle of the road and showed wariness. He waved his hand for his subordinates to guard the carriage and inspected the surroundings. There was a lot of shrubbery and trees on the two sides of the road. It would be hard to discover if people were hiding within them.

“Go and see.” The guard captain had a guard who was usually the most reliable scout, but his hand was already on his sword.

When the “old couple” lying on the road saw the wang fu’s people did not fall for this, they suddenly jumped up and attacked the guard walking towards them. Who knew that the guard was prepared. An arrow lew out of his sleeve and killed one of the two where they were.

“Assemble!” The guard captain heard the sounds coming from the woods around and felt that it was not good. After the shield soldiers came forward, he saw dozens of arrows heading his way. He turned back to look at the carriage that was motionless and jumped onto the front of the carriage. He blocked the door and would not let any villains go near the door of the carriage.

“Leader, the guards of Xian Wang Fu are too brave. Our attacks are not effective!”

“Attack with ire. I don’t believe that a woman will not panic with so much going on. If she panics, the guards of Xian Wang Fu are useless no matter how strong they are.”

A qinwang fei’s carriage had the walls and roof made from steel. Normal arrows could not penetrate the carriage. But if they attacked with ire, they could force the people out of the carriage. It would not be late to act then.

Just as the guards of the wang fu thought that the attackers would retreat, some more people came out of the lora and were about to pour something onto the carriage even at the cost of their lives. Some of the guards were completely soaked and immediately detected something was wrong. This was oil?!

“Everyone careful—these people want to set ire!”

Bai Xia and Hong Ying who had come out with Hua Xi Wan changed expression and bent down to unsheathe the daggers they had hidden on their legs. They had serious expressions. At this time, Bai Xia noticed that a wang fu guard was retreating from the ight and coming closer to the carriage. Her brow creased slightly, and then she unhesitatingly kicked the guard aside. Caught off-guard, the guard fell down, and two matches dropped down.

The guard captain who was standing at the shaft of the carriage changed expression. Before he could move, Bai Xia cut that guard’s throat, and the movement was so clean that the guard captain couldn’t say a thing.

“Be careful. If they are not the closest and most trusted people, they cannot go near Wang Fei.” Bai Xia glanced at the guard captain. She took out a handkerchief to wipe the blood off her dagger and then returned to her original spot.

My mother, what servant girls does Wang Fei have? They are too vicious! While the guard captain did not change expression, he was thoughtful inside.

Suddenly, he heard the sound of a door being pulled down and turned back to look. He saw a foot wearing a pearl-encrusted and embroidered slipper come out. He stilled and then hurried to say, “Wang Fei, please….”

“The assassins want to use ire to force me out. How can I not do as they please?” Hua Xi Wan gripped the sword in her hand that could cut hair and briskly jumped off the carriage. Then she said, “The guards who have oil on your clothing—take those clothes off. Do not ight if you encounter ire; it is best to avoid them.”

The guards present immediately reddened. They were low-status people, and they were too embarrassed to take off their outer robes in front of the wang fei and the servant girls.

“The situation is an emergency. In the face of the enemy, everyone, do not care about convention.” Hua Xi Wan unsheathed her sword and threw the sheath to the side. She sneered. There were many rumors about her in Jing, and it was hard to know what was truth or lie. But it was a pity that the only thing these people did not know was that she had learned the Lu Family sword arts from her maternal grandfather’s side. While she was not invincible, it was still enough to defend against the enemy.

“Wang Fei.” Bai Xia and Hong Ying retreated to Hua Xi Wan’s side. Bai Xia’s face was cold as she said, “These people clearly planned ahead. I suspect that this has to do with the Tang Miss.”

Hua Xi Wan sighed and looked at the guards in the surroundings. These were the guards whom she had especially taken with her today. All of them had been carefully picked just to prevent such a thing from happening.

Right now, all the factions in Jing were restless in the ight for the throne. How could she leave her home without any preparations, much less to see Hua Yi Liu who she had been at odds with previously? Even if she was returning to her paternal home, she would take enough guards.

Now those people who hid in the shadows inally couldn’t resist acting. She thought of the “Be careful on the road” that Hua Yi Liu had said when she left the monastery, and that face she could not see the expression of. She sighed.

No one had thought that Xian Wang Fei who had been rumored to be devastatingly beautiful and delicate was able to use a sword. When the irst assassin fell under Xian Wang Fei’s sword, the assassins were not the only ones surprised—the wang fu guards were also very shocked.

From the shocked expressions of the assassins, these people did not know that Hua Xi Wan could use the sword. If Hua Yi Liu really hated her, why didn’t she tell the mastermind behind this that Hua Xi Wan knew martial arts?

Hua Xi Wan seemed to think of something and sighed. She turned to look in the direction of the monastery and then gripped her sword. “Since they dare to come, then naturally we shall not let them return.”

In the monastery, Hua Yi Liu sat in the dark. She looked at the sunlight by the window and touched her bangs. Then she said to the servant girl behind her, “What time is it?”

The servant girl looked worriedly at her and said in a small voice, “It is almost noon.”

“She must have already returned to the wang fu.” Hua Yi Liu stood to sit by the mirror. After carefully putting on her makeup, she drew a beautiful bold plum lower on her forehead. After examining it closely, she asked the servant girl, “Is it beautiful?”

The servant girl nodded dazedly.

Hua Yi Liu smiled bitterly and inserted a golden butter ly buyao into her hair. She looked at herself in the mirror and said, “I have never made a decision for myself in this lifetime. Finally, I managed to make one decision to do something, but everyone thinks that I am wrong. By the end, even I feel uncertain. In the past, I thought that I was more virtuous and gentle than Third Sister. She grew up being spoiled by Eldest Uncle. Other than that face, she was not as good as me in anything. Now I know that she is much stronger than me. A woman is not a winner because her needlework is good and she is gentle. She is stronger than me mentally.”

When she had irst been sent to the monastery, she really wanted Hua Xi Wan to die immediately. But when someone found her and wanted to ally with her to scheme against Hua Xi Wan, she found that she actually didn’t want Hua Xi Wan to die.

Hua Xi Wan could do what she, Hua Yi Liu, wanted to but could not do. Hua Xi Wan could obtain what she wanted but didn’t even dare to think

about. Hua Xi Wan could live the life that she didn’t even dare to dream about. She was jealous of Hua Xi Wan, crazily jealous, but she could not forget how moved she had been that day when she heard that Hua Xi Wan was blocking the gates of her husband’s home.

Even if she hated, she could not forget the warmth of Hua Xi Wan’s hand that reached out to her then. So at the last moment, she had lied to that person. She had said that Hua Xi Wan had been spoiled by her family and wasn’t special at all.

She wasn’t able to be bad to the end, but her personality was not generous. From her birth, her life was like a joke.

“Creak.”

The door was suddenly pushed open. The blinding light squeezed into the room. Hua Yi Liu had to squint to see who was standing by the door.

The man had a white face and a jade coronet. He was dressed in purple brocade. There were some broad guards standing behind him. Who was it but Yan Jin Qiu?

Hua Yi Liu stilled. Moments later, she suddenly laughed and said, “I didn’t think that I would be able to see you again.”

Yan Jin Qiu saw Hua Li Liu’s makeup that seemed to mimic Xi Wan’s and stood expressionlessly at the door. He did not go in. He waved his hand at the guards behind him.

Two guards silently walked into the room, each with a tray in his hands. However, what was on the trays was startling to see.

Hua Yi Liu looked at the two trays that were presented to her. One had poisoned wine and a dagger, the other had three meters of white cloth and poison pills. She looked fearlessly at Yan Jin Qiu. “This servant is just a normal female and actually troubled the honored wang ye to personally make a trip. This is a great honor for this servant.”

“You are a cousin of Hua Xi Wan; benwang is willing to give you this honor.” Yan Jin Qiu expressionlessly put his hand behind his back and turned his face, unwilling to look at Hua Yi Liu. “I had originally wanted to keep you alive for Xi Wan. But you thought what you should not, so I cannot leave you alive.”

“Thoughts that I should not have?!” Hua Yi Liu smiled bitterly. “Are your actions just to show my good sister, or out of sincerity?”

Yan Jin Qiu said coolly, “I do not need to tell you what I think.”

“I will accept that you want me to die today.” Hua Yi Liu picked up the jug of poisonous wine. She then stared with wide eyes at Yan Jin Qiu. “If

you do anything to let down my sister, you will spend all your lifetimes as an animal and never have a good death.”

She did not believe in the sweet words of a man and did not believe that a male of the Imperial House would have a true heart. If Yan Jin Qiu truly obtained that highest position, would he still manage to be wholehearted to one single person?

“You overstep!” Mu Tong had not thought that Hua Yi Liu would dare to curse Wang Ye and lectured angrily, “A woman like you does not qualify to say such a thing.”

He really didn’t understand women. This Hua Yi Liu clearly hated and was jealous of Wang Fei, but her last words were in concern for Wang Fei. One really could not guess those thoughts.

The saying was that a woman’s thoughts were impossible to grasp, like a needle at the bottom of the ocean. This seemed to have some truth.

Hua Yi Liu snorted a laugh. It seemed that her so-called tender feeling for Yan Jin Qiu were just because she had been fooled by his appearance. She didn’t even have a basic understanding of him, so how could it be love?

Her thoughts had just been stirred by his reputation. Now that she saw clearly, she found that she was also common. No wonder she had ended up like this.

She snorted and took off the cover of the wine jug. She was about to down it all, but before the bottle reached her lips, the sound of hurried footsteps came from outside.

“Wait!”

No one had thought that Hua Xi Wan would appear here. Yan Jin Qiu showed a thread of frustration and then reached out to support the lightly panting Hua Xi Wan. “How come you returned?” He saw that Hua Xi Wan’s hair was disordered and she had clearly hurried here.

“I was attacked today, and on the way, the guards from the wang fu killed all the assassins. But when I returned in fright to the wang fu, Wang Ye, you were not there. I could only come out to ind you.” Hua Xi Wan seemed to not see what was going on in the room. Her beautiful eyes looked at Yan Jin Qiu. “I have come to take you home—are you going to return with me?”

Yan Jin Qiu covered his forehead and smiled helplessly. “That is my fault. I will return with you.”

The servants present stared at each other. Seeing their masters turn and leave, they looked at Hua Yi Liu in the room and didn’t know what to do.

“Chief Steward Mu Tong, should this miss still take the wine?” a taijian asked carefully. Wang Fei had come, and although she didn’t say a thing, he felt that if they really had the woman in the room drink the poisoned wine, they would get in great trouble.

“Drink what wine?” Mu Tong raised an eyebrow. “Have them take good care of this tang miss. In the end, she is the tang miss of our wang fei.” After saying this, he did not look at the expressions of other people and left with a swish of his sleeve.

Wang Fei had personally made the trip. While she had not begged for mercy for this Hua Yi Liu on the surface, she had said what she needed to say. Since Wang Ye had not said more about taking this woman’s life, that meant that she could stay alive.

It could be seen that everything in the world had a bane. While Wang Ye was cold-blooded and scheming, there was the bane that was Wang Fei.

The other servants heard this and quickly put away the things they had just taken in. They then quickly disappeared from the monastery as though they had never come.

Hua Yi Liu stood in the deathly silent room. She laughed bitterly and dazedly sat on a chair.

“Miss!” The servant girl, pale from fright, charged into the room. She sighed in relief seeing that Hua Yi Liu was ine, and collapsed on the

ground. “It is fortunate that Third Miss has come, fortunate…”

She suddenly stopped. Third Miss had come—then didn’t Third Miss know what Miss had done? When she thought of this, she hurriedly looked at Hua Yi Liu but only saw Hua Yi Liu’s dazed face.

Third Miss… was not pursuing this?

Mu Tong and the others came out of the monastery and saw that Wang Ye and Wang Fei had already entered the carriage. He walked next to the guard captain who had been protecting Hua Xi Wan today and asked in a small voice, “I heard the leader of the guard reinforcements say that when they arrived, all of the assassins had been killed. What happened?”

When the guard captain heard this, his rough face immediately changed color and was very pretty to look at.

Mu Tong frowned in puzzlement. What could make this guard captain who had followed Wang Ye for so many years show an expression like this—did he see a ghost?

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ninety-Six: Afraid of the Wife?

Zhao Xin Hong was one of the captains of the guard and could be said to be experienced, but when he thought of Wang Fei and her servant girls, he inally understood where the saying came from that women should not be offended.

“Wang Fei and the servant girls are this.” Zhao Xing Hong gave a thumbs up to Mu Tong and then shook his head. “One cannot judge based on appearances, really cannot judge based on appearances.”

A scholarly person like Wang Ye would probably have to move back in front of someone as strong as Wang Fei. A woman who was beautiful and skilled in martial arts was someone whom most men could not accept.

“Our wang ye is also this!” Zhao Xin Hong gave thumbs up with both of hands, his face illed with admiration.

Mu Tong: “…”

Martial artists were martial artists—there were problems with their heads!

After Yan Jin Qiu accompanied Hua Xi Wan back to the wang fu, he turned round and charged into the imperial palace with anger on his face.

Ever since the Crown Princess had hung herself, Qilong Emperor became even more short-tempered, and the people in the palace would avoid being in his presence. Even so, in these short few months, Qilong Emperor had aged greatly.

When he heard that Xian Wang Fei had been the target of an attempted assassination, he was both shocked and angry. After a moment, he said, panting, “Summon Xian Wang.”

“Emperor.” When Yan Jin Qiu entered the hall, his eyes turned red before he spoke. He knelt in the center of the hall and said in a chokedup voice, “Emperor, this subject-nephew and Wang Fei are husband and wife, and deeply in love. Once, due to the guards’ carelessness, an assassin entered the fu and harmed her. This subject had already felt extremely remorseful. Who would imagine that assassins dared to act in broad daylight. Fortunately, the guards protected her with their lives, otherwise…”

Yan Jin Qiu almost wasn’t able to continue. A thread of terror appeared on his handsome face. “If Wang Fei were gone, this subject-nephew would want to go with her.”

“Nonsense! You are a man; you cannot act like this.” Qilong Emperor wanted to lecture Yan Jin Qiu, but seeing him act so out of his mind, he

did not say anything. He could only comfort him. “Zhen heard this—is your wang fei all right?”

“Fortunately, my wife had learned some skill at defending herself from her maternal family. When the assassins attacked, she managed to last a few attacks and survive. But she was frightened, and fainted into sleep before we returned to the fu.” Yan Jin Qiu stared with bright eyes at Qilong Emperor. “Please, Emperor, help this subject-nephew.”

Qilong Emperor was also displeased, but this was not directed at Yan Jin Qiu but at someone else. After this event occurred, the irst person he suspected was Yan Bo Yi.

That was because the rumors that he would be passing the throne to Yan Jin Qiu had grown in Jing. How could the ambitious Yan Bo Yi stand still? Who in Jing did not know how much Xian Wang loved Xian Wang Fei? If Xian Wang Fei died, Xian Wang would naturally be extremely affected, and it was unknown what reckless things he would do then.

“Zhen knows.” Qilong Emperor nodded and said, “Go back and keep your wang fei company. Zhen will immediately send someone to investigate this matter.”

It was not easy to ind the mastermind after the event. Most of the time, a scapegoat was found. Qilong Emperor and Yan Jin Qiu both knew this but no one said it.

Yan Jin Qiu was just expressing to the Emperor what he felt, and the Emperor was just using this matter to cut off some of Yan Bo Yi’s helpers. After Yan Bo Yi’s entire support was cut off, it would be time for him to close the net.

After Yan Jin Qiu left, Qilong Emperor smashed the teacup on his desk and then summoned with a dark face the captain of the imperial guard. This matter was related to members of the Imperial House, and he would take the chance to make a great furor about this matter.

Even if his throne could not be passed onto his own blood, he could not let Yan Bo Yi have it for free.

In Sheng Junwang Fu, Hou shi stood in the corridor and watched as several blue-robed people rushed towards Yan Bo Yi’s study. Her face had a slightly disdainful smile, and she only turned to leave after these people had disappeared.

Listening with a dark face to the report of his subordinate, Yan Bo Yi gritted out, “You sent so many people, and yet was unable to take down a woman?!”

The blue-robed man at the front said with embarrassment, “This subordinate had not expected that Xian Wang Fu would be so cautious, and that even Wang Fei’s servant girls are experts in martial arts.”

“Hmph.” Yan Bo Yi sneered. “Why don’t you just say that Xian Wang Fei is also a great martial artist?”

The blue-robed man was silent for a moment. “Xian Wang Fei’s martial skills are indeed extraordinary.”

Yan Bo Yi could not breathe. “How come ben wang didn’t know that Hua shi, a woman, knows martial arts?!”

All the blue-robed people were silent. None of them had expected that Yi’an Marquis Fu was so strange. The two sons were skilled in both scholarly and martial arts, and even their daughter had learned martial arts. That was raising their daughter as a man. Who would teach their daughter like this?

Seeing the strange expressions on the faces of the blue-robed men, Yan Bo Yi knew that there was no meaning in pressing further. He said, “Clean up after this matter. Do not let the Emperor or Yan Jin Qiu catch anything. Otherwise, they will de initely make trouble.”

“This subordinate understands.” The blue-robed leader hesitated and then gathered his courage to say, “Wang Ye, Xian Wang Fu’s wang fei is very skilled. This subordinate suspects the rumors about Xian Wang not taking any concubines because of his love for Xian Wang Fei are wrong.”

“You mean… Xian Wang is henpecked?” Yan Bo Yi’s face that usually did not show any expression was complicated. He seemed to be unable to

think that his good cousin would be henpecked. “Do you have any proof of this?”

The blue-robed man struggled. “This subordinate’s people said that any man who saw Xian Wang Fei’s ferocious appearance would feel small.”

Yan Bo Yi: “…”

He waved his hand weakly. “Withdraw.”

This world was too complex, and he needed to use his mind more.

At this time, Hua Xi Wan who was being discussed behind her back was idly eating iced watermelon and reading the most popular novels from the streets. She listened to the female musician play the zither. Yan Jin Qiu who came back in the heat was so stimulated that he stole her halffull bowl of iced and sliced watermelon.

“If you want to eat, have the servants make another bowl?” Hua Xi Wan saw the sweat on his forehead and hurriedly stole the bowl back. “You are so heated—can your stomach tolerate iced watermelon?” Finishing, she waved with a hand at Bai Xia. “Get the tea that I had you set aside for cooling.”

Bai Xia handed the cold tea to Hua Xi Wan with a smile. Hua Xi Wan thrust the teacup into Yan Jin Qiu’s hand. “Drink this. Rest for a while before eating watermelon.”

Yan Jin Qiu obeyed and drank a few sips before speaking. “Just now, I sent messengers to the marquis fu to tell them not to worry.”

Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow. “I was just preparing to send people to the marquis fu. I hadn’t thought that you would rush to do it irst. It seems that after a few more years, my paternal family will only recognize the son-in-law and not the daughter.” Finishing, she laughed. “It is fortunate that you thought of it. Otherwise, my paternal family would worry longer.”

“Your paternal family is my paternal family…” Yan Jin Qiu stilled as he felt that the words were not right. He immediately corrected himself. “Your parents are my parents—isn’t reassuring them something that I should do?”

Hua Xi Wan covered her mouth and laughed for a long while. After the heat on Yan Jin Qiu’s body dissipated, she had him change into a loose robe, and then the two of them picked a cool room where to sit together and read.

“Thanks for Jiejie’s matter today.”

Yan Jin Qiu turned to look at Hua Xi Wan. He saw that her expression was as usual, but the tips of her ears were slightly red. He said, “I originally just felt wronged on your behalf, so I wanted to end her life. But you think highly of your relationship with her, and I do not bear for you to be hurt.”

Hua Xi Wan’s hand stilled while lipping the page, and then she sighed. “I hope that Eldest Sister can live her days well after this matter.”

She was not someone who would return good for evil. She had just given Hua Yi Liu her last chance due to their past relationship and for the future interactions between the younger members of the Hua Family.

If she managed to save Hua Yi Liu now, Second Uncle and Cousin Hua Qing Mao would be in her debt. In the future, Hua Qing Mao would support Eldest Brother even more.

The reason why prestigious families were prestigious families was because they knew to show a sliver of mercy in every matter.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

⼤嫂 dasao: older brother’s wife 弟妹 dimei: younger brother’s wife Chapter Ninety-Seven: Let’s Have A Child

When the Hua Family heard that there had been an assassination attempt on Hua Xi Wan, Lu shi was so frightened she wasn’t able to breathe. She inally recovered when the people from Xian Wang Fu said that Hua Xi Wan was all right.

When she found out about the complete process of the matter, Lu shi immediately smashed a porcelain. Turning round and taking along a few female servants, she hurried to the fu of Assistant Minister Hua.

“That girl really has good luck to be able to return from all that unharmed.” When Zhang shi inished listening to the servant tell how Xian Wang Fei had been attacked, she complained with slight regret. Then she found that the expressions of her servants were not quite right before she inally woke up. She was slightly discontent with Hua Xi Wan, but it was not appropriate to say such things in front of servants. If this passed to the ears of her husband, it would not be good.

“My daughter has a good life. This is something that other people won’t get no matter how jealous they are.” Zhang shi door was suddenly kicked open from outside. It gave Zhang shi a fright. She raised her head and saw that it was her dasao who came in. Thinking about what she had just said, she felt slightly anxious, but seeing Lu shi kick open her

door like this, she felt she had been embarrassed. She said harshly, “Dasao, what do you mean?”

“What do I mean?” Lu shi snorted coldly. Ignoring the fact that they were relatives, she and the servants smashed everything in Zhang shi’s room, regardless of whether it was gold, silver or porcelain.

Zhang shi was furious and wanted to ight physically with Lu shi. However, she was afraid of Lu shi’s aggressive manner. She had heard before that the males and females of the Lu Family were very strong. While Lu shi was not easy to bully in the past, she had never shown such a rough and vicious side. Her actions today really frightened Zhang shi.

After smashing everything that could be smashed, Lu shi ignored the servants who were peeking in her direction and said directly, “Zhang shi, remember this—our main branch does not owe you anything. If your daughter dares to scheme against my daughter in the future, I will not spare you even if I have to die.”

The servants in the surroundings heard the marquis furen say this, and their minds swirled. From this, it seemed that the attempted assassination on Xian Wang Fei was related to Eldest Miss?

“Dasao, what do you mean? As an aunt, I was very worried that someone tried to assassinate Third Miss, How come it has changed when you say it? You cannot speak arbitrarily.” Zhang shi was shocked

inside but she did not show it. “Our second branch might not have inherited the title, but we will not allow you to bully us like this.”

Lu shi sneered and looked coldly at Zhang shi. “You think that I don’t know what you and your daughter have done in secret? Just because I do not say it does not mean that I do not have the means of dealing with you.”

When Zhang shi heard Lu shi say this, her face paled. She was guilty, and she was afraid that Lu shi would have evidence. She could only force out, “Dasao, how to say…”

“This is a warning; there will not be another one.” Lu shi kicked aside the pieces of porcelain by her feet and said with disdain, “Behave.”

Zhang shi faltered and didn’t dare to speak. She could only watch as Lu shi walked out of her room.

Just out of the door, Lu shi saw Hua Zhi Ming walk into the yard. Lu shi stopped and looked at Hua Zhi Ming expressionlessly.

Hua Zhi Ming looked at Zhang shi’s messy room behind Lu shi and then gave a bow towards Lu shi. “Greetings, Dasao.”

“Second Brother is too polite.” Lu shi was also cool towards Hua Zhi Ming. Even though he was her husband’s full-blood brother, in her view, the things that Zhang shi and Hua Yi Liu had done in private were not completely unrelated to Hua Zhi Ming.

Hadn’t Hua Zhi Ming implicitly agreed for Hua Yi Liu to marry a man like that? Hadn’t Hua Zhi Ming ever thought to stop Zhan shi from doing what she did in the past?

Her enemy was anyone who dared to act against her children. She did not care who they were, what their relationship to her was. Even if it was her husband’s younger brother, he was just a fake gentleman in her mind right now.

Hua Zhi Ming saw Lu shi’s ugly expression and saw Zhang shi’s eyes lickering around. When he recalled the attempted assassination on Hua Xi Wan, his heart jumped. Before he could speak, Lu shi spoke irst.

“Only those who manage their home can manage the country. Second Brother, what do you think?” Lu shi nodded minutely at Hua Zhi Ming. Not waiting for Hua Zhi Ming to respond, she left the Assistant Minister Hua’s fu with her servants.

When Hua He Sheng heard that Lu shi had taken people and smashed Second Dimei’s fu, he sighed. He only told the servants not to gossip but did not say anything else. He had been married to Lu shi for many years and knew where her bottom line was. Moreover, as a father, he also

loved his daughter. As a man, he could not participate, but he had a feeling of getting vengeance.

“What will other people think if they know?” Hua He Zhen said in front of the servants, but when he turned around, he had the steward gather all the good medicine in the fu for replenishing blood and recovering from shock and sent it to Xian Wang Fu.

At the moment, Xian Wang Fu’s storeroom was over lowing with all kinds of medicines. In order to deal with the stewards who had come from other fu, Mu Tong sweated heavily. Even the lower-ranked servants were constantly on their feet and wanted to grow another pair of hands.

It was no wonder that the prestigious families in Jing were so enthusiastic. Everyone knew that the two competitors for the throne were Xian Wang and Sheng Junwang. Even though Xian Wang did not seem very interested in the throne, people only knew his appearance but not what he thought. Who knew what Xian Wang really thought inside? Also, it appeared that the Emperor did not like Sheng Junwang, so regardless of whether in the future Xian Wang ascended the throne or not, they could not offend him. It was just a generous gift—what was that worth?

To speak of no one else, even Princess Rui He’s fu had sent a steward who was much more polite in tone than usual. The gifts were also very generous. If one did not know the truth, they would think that Xian Wang Fei was very good friends with Princess Rui He.

After Hua Xi Wan inished reading the lists that Mu Tong had presented, she covered her mouth with a handkerchief and yawned. “The list is very clear. It has been a lot of work for Chief Steward Mu.”

“It is this subordinate’s duty; it is no burden,” Mu Tong replied humbly. “These are just things that appear famous and valuable, and are not as considerate as what the marquis fu has sent.”

Hearing Mu Tong mention her paternal family, Hua Xi Wan thought of her eldest brother who had came early in the morning with all kinds of medicines. She covered her forehead and smiled helplessly. “It is my fault they had such a fright this time, yet they still sent so much over. I do not have the face to see them.”

“Parents always think to be better to their children. They will only be reassured if you accept what they send. If you refuse, that would hurt them.” Yan Jin Qiu walked in with a fan in his hand. He looked elegant and handsome. If he was walking outside, he would have stolen away the souls of numerous young females.

Seeing him come in, Hua Xi Wan put down the list and glanced at him with a smile. “You know just what to say.” Thinking about her family’s good qualities, she smiled helplessly and said, “Regardless of how parents are, it is my fault that they worry for me.”

“It is my fault.” Yan Jin Qiu sat next to her and lightly grasped her hand. “If I had protected you well, you would not have encountered such a thing.”

“If I accidentally trip and fall one day, will I blame you for not having people build the road properly?” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “It was unexpected to everyone that this accident occurred.”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled and disguised the emotions in his eyes. He lightly caressed her hand and said, “I heard that Mother-in-law went to Assistant Minister Hua’s fu and made a fuss. Zhang shi is guilty, so she did not dare to spread this. Right now, no one knows what has happened.”

“This is my mother.” Hua Xi Wan felt moved. “From childhood, she was extremely protective of my brothers and I. If someone dares to act against us, she will not forgive them easily.

“Mother once said that children are the greatest weakness of a woman but also a woman’s strongest weapon. Acting against a woman’s child is equal to killing her.” She laughed lightly and her eyes were warm.

Yan Jin Qiu thought of his own mother. She had been so ill, but she had still worked hard to help him ind a path of retreat. No matter how forceful that cefei in the wang fu had been, the other had been unable to climb on top of her.

After his father died, he did not bury the two of them together. Before death, Mother had a hard life. Why should he let that man disturb her rest and peace even after death?

As for that cefei—she didn’t even qualify to enter the tomb of the Yan Clan. As for her saying that Father had promised that she would be buried in the side tomb—who could prove that?

He said there was no such thing, and naturally, there was no such thing.

“Mother-in-law is right.” Yan Jin Qiu showed a warm smile. “Mothers are the strongest people in the world.”

Mu Tong saw the two gaze lovingly at each other and quietly left after placing down the tea and fruits. Coming out of the main yard, Mu Tong saw one of his closest subordinates walk over. He knew that something had happened and asked in a small voice, “What happened?”

“Chief Steward Mu, something big happened to Sheng Junwang Fu!”

“What?”

“Sheng Junwang Fei led from the junwang fu with disheveled clothing and screaming for help and to be saved. She has entered the palace now and is taking refuge in Shu Fei’s palace.”

Shu Fei was currently the highest-ranking consort in the palace and held the phoenix seal. While she was childless, she was from a prestigious family, and her father and brothers had some reputation in court. While not everyone in the inner palace obeyed her, she was the best choice to temporarily hold the phoenix seal.

Mu Tong’s brow furrowed. What was Sheng Junwang Fu playing at?

“Wait out here. I will report this to Wang Ye. If Wang Ye summons you, tell him this in detail.”

Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu were just at their sweetest time. Hearing that something big had happened to Sheng Junwang Fu, they immediately had a desire for gossip and summoned the person.

Hou shi had screamed “save me” as she led the junwang fu.

Why did this scene look like the ruthless husband beating and killing his wife?

Hua Xi Wan’s eyebrow couldn’t help but rise. If it was true, then Sheng Junwang was really vicious. If Hou shi was acting, than Hou shi’s action was vicious.

“The love between man and woman in the world is just this. At the beginning, it is the greatest promises, to remain together in life and death. Yet in the end, they will feel that the other is always wrong, and will wish to never see each other again.” Hua Xi Wan sighed. “It is all right if both do not invest emotion, but if it is one-sided and they become enemies in the end, I really don’t know how they feel when they think back to the past.

“At least there is one thing to rejoice about since they have reached this state—Hou shi does not have a child.” Hua Xi Wan did not feel that this matter was interesting. She stood and said, “If there were a child, maybe she would not have done this.”

…

“Let’s have a child,” Yan Jin Qiu said.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

妃 fei: a higher-ranked imperial concubine 娘娘 niangniang: respectful title used for the Empress and/or imperial consorts 妾 qie: a selfdeprecatory appellation used by women 本宫 ben gong: lit. “this palace”; illeism for members of the Imperial Family and imperial consorts

Chapter Ninety-Eight: Sides

The atmosphere in Shu Fei’s palace was slightly tense. Other than Hou shi and Shu Fei, there was also De Fei, Rong Fei and the other qinwang fei of the Imperial House.

A junwang abusing his junwang fei—this would be an ugly stain on the Imperial House if it was publicized. While Qilong Emperor was displeased with Sheng Junwang in many ways, he was still extremely displeased that Hou shi had done this. In his view, it was the glory of the entire Hou Clan that Hou shi had been able to marry into the Imperial Family. For her to do such a thing was to disrespect the Imperial House.

Also, that Yan Bo Yi was useless. He wasn’t even able to keep an eye on his own woman and caused this entire matter to be known by everyone. Even though he was displeased, the Emperor still had people take care of Hou shi. He could not have her slighted even more, otherwise, the Imperial House would be even more humiliated.

The Imperial House was discontent, and the prestigious families did not feel comfortable as well. While the Hou Family was not the most

famous, it was still a major family. Yet after their daughter had married into the Imperial Family, she hadn’t just lost her child, but also her husband was rumored to have had an affair with another woman, and she was abused to such a sorry state. This was disrespecting the prestigious families.

While the prestigious families muttered inside, they did not move and waited for the Imperial House’s response. As for Sheng Junwang who had abused his wife—his reputation among the prestigious families and the common people fell greatly.

Shu Fei fet con licted as she watched Hou shi cry. She was also from a prestigious family and naturally biased inside towards Hou shi. But she also knew that the Emperor was displeased with this matter. It really was hard for her to decide how to manage this.

The saying was that one would rather demolish ten temples than destroy a marriage. But facing Hou shi’s skeletal appearance and disheveled state, Shu Fei was unable to speak. Yet she did not dare to let these two divorce. It had been the Emperor who had decreed this marriage. If she now said that the two were not suited, wasn’t that akin to saying the Emperor had been wrong?

They all said that a marriage was a relationship between two families. Hou shi and Yan Bo Yi being like this was really a sin. When Hou shi had just married, she had been a beautiful person. Yet just the span of a few years had been enough to change a beautiful woman into a lifeless and withered person. Shu Fei didn’t know how much the other had suffered.

Those seated were all women. While some people were watching for the spectacle and to mock, most were illed with pity. They were all women—how could they not know the hardship of being a woman?

Seeing Hou shi thin and withered, and unable to even cry, Shu Fei sighed and said, “Relax, the Imperial Family will give you justice.”

When Hou shi had entered the palace, her clothing had been shabby and her hair messy. While she had been through a round of cleaning up, a feeling of looseness came from her grand robe on her body, and caused people’s hearts to hurt.

Hou shi’s unfocused gaze stilled for a moment before she stood and curtsied to Shu Fei. “Many thanks, Shu Fei.”

“Sit down. There is no need for such courtesy.” Shu Fei couldn’t help but sigh inwardly again. She had been such a bright person before, and now she was so pitifully slow.

De Fei and Rong Fei exchanged a look, and then they both shook their heads helplessly. They were the same as Shu Fei, consorts in the palace who had titles but no favor. Because they had no children, they were fated to die in the palace, so they did not want to cause trouble.

Right now, Sheng Junwang had numerous supporters. If he really became the emperor in the future, if they offended him in this matter, how would they live the rest of their days?

The high-ranking consorts in the palace did not speak, so Ning Wang Fei and Xu Wang Fei naturally would not express their opinions. They all looked at each other and then, in the end, all looked at Shu Fei.

Shu Fei did not show her dislike. She looked with a gentle expression at Hou shi. “Stay in my palace for now. This matter is not minor. Why don’t we invite all women above junwang fei rank into the palace to discuss what to do?”

“Many thanks, niangniang.” Hou shi walked into the middle of the hall and knelt. “Qie wishes nothing else except peace for the rest of this life and to never see Sheng Junwang again.”

Shu Fei’s brow furrowed before her gentle expression came back. “Your words…”

“Qie only requests to divorce Sheng Junwang. Qie is willing to go to the monastery to pray for the Emperor and the Yan Clan, and to never come out of the monastery again.” Hou shi kowtowed to Shu Fei as though she had made a great decision. “Qie’s heart is dead. Niangniang, please ful ill this request.”

“It is not that ben gong is not willing to agree but…” Shu Fei realized that her words were inappropriate and hurriedly corrected, “This matter is not minor. Ben gong needs to report to the Emperor.”

“Thanks, niangniang.” Hou shi gave a heavy kowtow again. Shu Fei felt pain on her behalf just looking at Hou shi, but Hou shi was expressionless, as though the person with a swollen forehead was not her but someone else.

At this time, a taijian came to report that Xian Wang Fei was asking for an audience.

Shu Fei had a servant help Hou shi to sit down on a chair before summoning Xian Wang Fei.

When Hua Xi Wan walked into Shu Fei’s palace, she detected the unusualness of the atmosphere. She walked into the hall, her eyes looking straight ahead. After giving curtseys to everyone present, she sat down on a chair near Hou shi.

“Jiejie, are you all right?” Hua Xi Wan lightly patted the back of Hou shi’s hand. She touched the green and black marks on the surface, sighing.

“All right.” Hou shi looked up at Hua Xi Wan and then moved her gaze away quickly, as though there was nothing for her to live for. “I have troubled Meimei to make the trip for me.”

The other people looked with surprise at the two. From their tone, it seemed that those two had a good relationship?

Theoretically, with Sheng Junwang and Xian Wang being on opposite sides, Xian Wang Fei and Sheng Junwang Fei should not have such a good relationship.

“Hearing that Jiejie has suffered so, how can I sit still?” Hua Xi Wan watched as Hou shi’s index inger unconsciously drew a circle on the table, and her tone became slightly angry and grave. “Jiejie, what do you plan to do?”

Xian Wang Fei, do you remember your identity?

The people present all felt this scene was slightly strange. As the leader, Shu Fei spoke. “Xian Wang Fei and Sheng Junwang Fei seem to be close.”

“Qie has been impolite.” Hua Xi Wan stood and curtsied to Shu Fei. Then she said, “Hearing that Jiejie has suffered so, qie cannot still the anger inside. Please, niangniang, forgive me.”

Hearing this, Shu Fei understood. It seemed that Xian Wang Fei was on Hou shi’s side. Was this the meaning of Xian Wang or just of Xian Wang Fei herself?

Hua Xi Wan did not care what Shu Fei said. She was standing out to speak for Hou shi in order to create a way for Hou shi to survive, because Sheng Junwang was fated to not be able to ascend the throne. If Hou shi could divorce Sheng Junwang now, she would not be affected by him in the future.

Thinking about how Yan Jin Qiu had the thought of having children because of the incident between Hou shi and Yan Bo Yi, she felt a headache. It was not good for mother and child if the mother had the child at a young age. How could she scienti ically prove this serious problem to the other?

“Ben gong can understand that you are close and have great concern for each other.” Shu Fei looked at Hou shi, and the meaning in her words changed. “You are really sincere in your decision just now?”

Hou shi nodded. “Qie has decided.”

Shu Fei sighed and said, “Ben gong understands. Soon, ben gong will request an audience with His Majesty. However, ben gong cannot guarantee that this will succeed but will try.”

At the last step, she still chose Xian Wang’s side. Sheng Junwang was a man who could even be vicious to his wife. If he ascended the throne, they, the old people of the previous emperor, would not have any status. It would be better to throw their lot in with Xian Wang early. At the least, it would guarantee that they would live their days out in peace.

De Fei and Rong Fei also spoke and comforted Hou shi upon seeing this. They also expressed they were willing to ask the Emperor for Hou shi.

“Many thanks, niangniang.” Hua Xi Wan stood and bowed towards the three consorts with a double meaning in her words. She watched as one of Shu Fei’s palace attendants helped Hou shi go into the back hall to rest before she stood and said, “The time is late; it is not good for qie to disturb you. Qie bids farewell.”

Shu Fei tried to keep her upon hearing this. Seeing Hua Xi Wan determined to leave, she sent her most trusted servant to send Hua Xi Wan out of the palace to express her high opinion of Hua Xi Wan.

“Xian Wang Fei, take care.” The servant saw Hua Xi Wan to the palace gates. Seeing Xian Wang standing next to the carriage, she marveled inside. She hadn’t thought that Xian Wang placed such importance on Xian Wang Fei that he would wait for her at the gates to return to the fu together.

The servant watched the two get on the carriage together before returning to Shu Fei’s palace. She reported what she had seen and then said, “Niangniang, this servant thinks in the future… having a good relationship with Xian Wang Fei is bene icial for us.”

“Ben gong also knows this.” Shu Fei took a sip of tea. In another few days, the new empress would enter the palace. It seemed to be a great honor, but His Majesty was old, and he most likely did not have the strength to accomplish many matters that he wanted to. Zhang shi entering the palace was just to de lect the previous rumors.

As to whether there was something between the Crown Princess and His Majesty…

Shu Fei sneered. In this world, the grandest was the Imperial Family, and the dirtiest was also the Imperial Family. She had lived in the palace for more than a decade. What hadn’t she seen? What hadn’t she experienced? The Zhang Family was being so ostentatious right now, and even dared to use Xian Wang Fei as a stepping stone to elevate Zhang shi’s name. In the future, Zhang shi would suffer for this.

“Get them to take care of Hou shi.” Shu Fei put down the teacup. “Regarding this matter of today, there probably is more to it than meets the eye.”

In the carriage, Yan Jin Qiu and Hua Xi Wan sat next to each other. Yan Jin Qiu carefully looked at the expression on Hua Xi Wan’s face and then said, “What do you think of what I talked to you about before?”

Hua Xi Wan’s eyebrow rose as she said slowly, “Of course I will ponder this when lying down.”

Yan Jin Qiu was silent for a moment. “I… I just do not feel reassured.”

The carriage swayed as it moved forward. Hua Xi Wan lifted up a corner of the curtain and looked at the passerby who had moved aside respectfully for the carriage. She put down the curtain and said, “I thought that you would be more reassured now.”

Yan Jin Qiu looked at her in puzzlement.

Hua Xi Wan turned her head to smile slightly at Yan Jin Qiu. “I know your ambition, and you understand my personality—is there anyone more suited to the other than the two of us?”

Yan Jin Qiu was still for a moment before he smiled and said, “You are right. I was overthinking.”

Hua Xi Wan shook her head. “It is not good for the body to think too much.”

Yan Jin Qiu held his forehead. “That is my fault.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled seeing Yan Jin Qiu like this. She lifted the window curtain again and saw an old couple support each other as they slowly walked forward. The smile at the corner of her mouth became even more evident. “Don’t worry, we will have a child.”

Only a child who was anticipated by their parents will possess the most perfect love in the world.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter Ninety-Nine: Who is Scheming?

Yan Bo Yi was overwhelmed as he read the reports his subordinates had passed on. His reputation among the common people was extremely low, and he had offended some prestigious families, not to mention the families that were on good terms with Hou shi.

He had originally suspected that it was Hou shi who had been passing information out of the fu, so he decided to temporarily keep her under house arrest. He hadn’t expected for Hou shi to be so decisive and make the matter known over the entire city. With just Hou shi’s own power in the wang fu, she would not be able to do this. Who had been helping her in secret?

Was it the old emperor or… Yan Bo Yi thought of Yan Jin Qiu, and his brow creased. From a young age, he had looked down on Yan Jin Qiu who was re ined in appearance but conniving inside. But right now, he had to admire the other for acting at such a level.

Hou shi!

He looked with a dark face at the information on his hands. He suppressed his anger as he said, “Send someone to deliver generous gifts to Hou Fu. I will go personally to the palace to collect Junwang Fei.:

The servants saw that Junwang Ye had an ugly expression and did not dare to speak. They hurriedly prepared the carriage to send Junwang Ye into the palace.

As a member of the Imperial House who was of age, it was not appropriate for Yan Bo Yi to go directly to Shu Fei’s palace, so he could only go see the Emperor. However, coincidentally, after he entered the hall, he found that other than the Emperor, Xu Wang, Ning Wang and Yan Jin Qiu were all present.

The wang ye saw Yan Bo Yi come in. While they did not have agreeable expressions, they did not speak before Yan Bo Yi sat down out of consideration for their relationship.

“Since you are all present today, zhen will ask you what you think.” Qilong Emperor looked with a displeased expression at Yan Bo Yi. “Are you discontent with Hou shi, or with zhen?”

He had been the one to decree this marriage. Sheng Junwang treating Hou shi so—wasn’t that challenging him?

“Your Majesty, this subject-nephew does not have such intentions. I think there must be some misunderstanding here.” Yan Bo Yi who had just sat down had to stand up again. He walked to the middle of the hall and knelt down. He said in an earnest tone, “Please give subjectnephew a chance. Subject-nephew will de initely treat her well.” Yan Bo Yi did not plan on explaining much. No one cared about the truth of the matter now that it had developed to such a level. For the common

people, what they liked to hear about was the story of a ruthless man abandoning his wife. The members of the Imperial House would only consider the effects of this matter, and it was not important who was in the wrong or right.

Yan Jin Qiu raised an eyebrow. Looking at Yan Bo Yi in the center of the hall assuming a righteous aura, his eyebrows moved slightly. Something like, a person with such a just and righteous face abusing his wife was even more interesting.

“What is the meaning in saying this to zhen now?” Qilong Emperor stood expressionlessly in the hall. He said in a disappointed and angry tone, “Yesterday, Sheng Junwang Fei came into the palace and begged Shu Fei for a divorce. When she said this, many of the consorts in the palace heard her. How do you want zhen to help you?”

Yan Bo Yi’s expression changed slightly. Hou shi had said such a thing, but why had no one told him what had happened yesterday? When he thought of this, his mood changed drastically. Someone had deliberately stopped this information.

He re lexively raised his head and turned it to look at Yan Jin Qiu in the corner. He only saw the other’s calm appearance.

“Zhen is speaking of your matter—what are you looking at Zi Ling for?” Qilong Emperor said with a cold face. “Now that the matter is like this, everyone in Jing is waiting for a result. Do you want zhen to have people escort Sheng Junwang Fei forcibly back?”

Yan Bo Yi knew that someone had schemed against him, and this time, it was his woman. However, right now, he could only swallow the teeth and blood. He suppressed the anger he felt and knelt down in front of Qilong Emperor. “Please, Your Majesty, help subject-nephew.”

Qilong Emperor looked at Yan Bo Yi who was kneeling docilely in front of him and revealed a hint of satisfaction in his eyes. A moment later, he said, “It is not good for zhen to interfere. Go talk to Hou shi. This matter will be concluded according to her wishes.” When he spoke this, his expression suddenly changed. “But regardless of the result, you cannot blame the Hou Clan.”

He had been the one to decree this marriage. He did not want the prestigious families to be angry with him after this.

Yan Bo Yi’s index inger pressed into his palm before he slowly said, “This subject-nephew will remember.”

The slightly plump Ning Wang who had been sitting at the side spoke ambiguously. “If you regret this, Virtuous Nephew, then why did you do it? Our Imperial House has been dishonored.”

Yan Bo Yi was silent.

Xu Wang looked at Ning Wang who was hitting when the other was down and then at the silent Xian Wang. After thinking for a moment, he said, “Your Majesty, this is a matter between husband and wife. It is not good for us to interfere; we will bid farewell now.”

Ning Wang glared at Xu Wang. This old bastard. Even at this time, the other was still digging holes to trip him up—he was lacking in virtue!

Yan Jin Qiu inally spoke slowly. “Your Majesty, Subject-nephew thinks that your intention in decreeing marriage was good. But no one can accurately predict a marriage. Maybe it is because the two people do not have the fate together, which has created this result.”

“You are right—aren’t you and your wang fei well?” Qilong Emperor seemed to have found an excuse for himself. He waved his hand. “You may all leave. Zhen will not interfere in this matter. You young people can decide your own marriages.”

The group moved out of the main hall. Yan Jin Qiu smiled as he looked at the dark-faced Yan Bo Yi. “Cousin, how about this younger brother accompanying you to Shu Fei’s palace?”

It was not appropriate for Yan Bo Yi to go alone to Shu Fei’s palace. However, if the two of them went together, it would be better.

“I do not dare to trouble Cousin. Many thanks.” Yan Bo Yi indifferently glanced at Yan Jin Qiu. “It is better not to have outsiders meddle in some

matters.”

Yan Jin Qiu smiled upon hearing this and was noncommittal.

Ning Wang and Xu Wang walked towards the gates of the palace together. Ning Wang glanced at Xu Wang. “I hadn’t thought that you are close to Xian Wang.”

Xu Wang’s expression was as normal. “It is expected of us elders to give care to our juniors. Ning Wang, is there something puzzling you?”

“Ha.” Ning Wang snorted coldly. When the two walked some more, he said, “Then why don’t you give more concern to Sheng Junwang?”

Xu Wang stopped walking and slanted a look at Ning Wang. “Isn’t it normal for an elder to be partial?”

Ning Wang: “…”

Haha.

In the end, Yan Bo Yi still used the excuse of visiting elders to go to Shu Fei’s palace. It was a pity that Hou shi was not willing to see him. She

only said that her heart had been completely wounded and she was unwilling to ever see him again.

“Junwang Ye, Mistress said for you to take care of yourself. She is not willing to return to the hurtful junwang fu.” Hou shi’s personal servant girl trembled with fear as she glanced at the expressionless Yan Bo Yi. She continued, “Please, Junwang Ye, allow this.”

“Allow?” Yan Bo Yi looked towards the inner hall. His eyes were frosty. “I hope that there won’t be a day when she regrets this.”

The young servant girl bent her head and did not dare to speak.

Yan Bo Yi turned to leave out the door without any reluctance. Just as he walked out through the gates of Shu Fei’s palace, he saw a grandly dressed female coming over towards him with a group of servant girls and taijian.

He narrowed his eyes slightly. This was Hua shi? He moved a step towards the side and turned his head to the side in order to indicate that he was being proper.

Hua Xi Wan also saw Yan Bo Yi. The other was dressed in a black brocade robe. He looked digni ied and outstanding. From the surface, no one would guess that he was ambitious.

Yan Bo Yi bowed towards her and she returned a curtsy. The two seemed to pass by shoulder to shoulder, but in reality, there was at least three paces between them.

After walking a few steps, Yan Bo Yi suddenly thought of the words one of his advisors had said to him.

If it wasn’t that Yi’an Marquis Fu’s di miss was too ugly, it would be a very good choice for Junwang Ye to marry her.

How had he answered at the time?

It seemed that he said he did not need to sacri ice his entire life in exchange for in-laws that he did not know.

Stopping, Yan Bo Yi turned back to look. At the end of the path, that female lightly stepped onto the stairs to Shu Fei’s palace gates surrounded by other people like planets circling the sun.

The other suddenly turned her head as though she hadn’t expected that he would also have turned back. After stilling for a moment, she returned a faint and polite smile before quickly walking through Shu Fei’s palace gates.

Hua, glory.

Yan Bo Yi’s eyes dimmed slightly as he walked on the long palace road.

Hou shi was determined to scheme against Yan Bo Yi and occupied the higher moral ground. Yan Bo Yi could only swallow this and agree to a divorce from Hou shi.

In order to save some face, he generously returned Hou shi’s entire dowry and also gave some other things. It was a pity that in the eyes of other people, this was all insincere and a cover-up.

Hua Xi Wan shook her head. If this was in the era of her previous life, Hou shi’s plan would not have succeeded so easily. Because, in that time, it was possible to hire people to spin everything, to make the truth lies and the lies truth. Yan Bo Yi and Hou shi might have fought three hundred rounds and still not have determined a winner.

Two days later, Qilong Emperor personally sent a decree to allow Hou shi to be divorced from Yan Bo Yi. Hou shi moved to the monastery in the Jing suburbs to pray.

This matter seemed to have concluded, but in private, many of the common people still thought that it was Hou shi who had discovered the matter between Sheng Junwang and the Crown Princess. Therefore, Sheng Junwang wanted to imprison Hou shi. So after Hou shi escaped, she would rather enter the monastery and divorce Sheng Junwang.

Then the question was, the imperial grandson whom the Emperor was raising himself—was he really the grandson of the Emperor?

The common people had great imagination. Not all people had tight mouths, so even the low-key rumors still had the power of rumors.

Hua Xi Wan didn’t know what the Emperor would think after learning of these rumors.

“Wang Fei, two days ago, we encountered Sheng Junwang outside Shu Fei’s palace. Will he guess that you supported Junwang Fei… Hou shi for a divorce?” Hong Ying heard the rumors and was worried when she remembered the matters of two days ago. What would happen if Sheng Junwang hated her mistress?

“Right now, we have already broken our relationship with Sheng Junwang Fu. It is not important if he knows or not.” Hua Xi Wan shook her head. “Just like we know that Sheng Junwang was connected to the attempted assassination last time, but there is no evidence. So even if Sheng Junwang suspects something is not right, he can only accept it.”

Hong Ying realized. “You mean that this matter…”

Hua Xi Wan glanced at Hong Ying, and Hong Ying immediately closed her mouth. Then she smiled and said, “It is karma.”

She was just saying that this matter wasn’t right the more she thought about it. So there really was something going on behind the scenes. So was Wang Ye getting revenge for Wang Fei, or trying to suppress Sheng Junwang?

Or maybe both?

Hong Ying looked at Hua Xi Wan’s rosy face. No matter what, retribution had been served to the person who had schemed against her mistress.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

本宫 ben gong: lit. “this palace”; illeism for members of the Imperial Family and imperial consorts 妾 qie: a self-deprecatory appellation used by women 妃 fei: a higher-ranked imperial concubine Chapter One Hundred: Second Empress

Three days later, Qilong Emperor welcomed Zhang Qing Yan into the palace as the empress with the rites for a second empress. The entire country celebrated.

The third day after the new empress entered the palace, all noblewomen in Jing above third grade had to go into the palace. As a super-ranking qinwang fei of the Imperial House, Hua Xi Wan was part of the irst group to visit the Empress. There were other qinwang fei who came into the hall with her, but she was the youngest of them all.

“Xian Wang Fei, please be careful of the stairs.” The taijian leading the way carefully guided them. While there was no fawning to be seen from how he treated Hua Xi Wan, still his actions and movements were illed with respect.

“Many thanks.” When Hua Xi Wan passed through the door into the hall, she saw two old qinwang fei sitting inside and went forward to give them the bow of a junior.

“Please, sit.” Xu Wang Fei smiled harmoniously as she motioned for Hua Xi Wan to sit beside her. She said as she raised a teacup, “The Empress is most likely going to get up late today.”

Hua Xi Wan felt that something wasn’t right with the words. Not ifteen minutes later, all of the qinwang fei were in the hall, but Empress Zhang was still not here. The qinwang fei present did not show any displeasure, and their expressions were normal.

Empress Zhang’s actions were not appropriate for one who had just entered the palace. While the empress was said to be the mother of the country, those present were all super-ranking noblewomen. Empress Zhang should not let them wait for this long. Did she think that this was a ight in a normal home, and making the other wait for a while was a show of strength?

What the women of the Imperial House did not lack for was acting skills and courage. This level of skill was only enough to displease the noblewomen, and could not intimidate them.

After another ifteen minutes, Empress Zhang inally appeared dressed in the phoenix robe, with a group of servants and taijian. Hua Xi Wan and the other qinwang fei stood up to give a curtsy.

Zhang Qing Yan sat on the phoenix throne and carefully examined the noblewomen present at the bottom of the stairs. In the end, her gaze landed on a young woman with inky black hair and pale skin. Because the other’s head was down, she could not see the other’s face, but just

that beautiful body and the hands that were exposed out of the robe were enough to enchant a person.

Was this the rumored devastatingly beautiful Xian Wang Fei?

After the super-rank noblewomen inished giving their full curtsies, the palace attendants hurriedly helped these noble personages up. Zhang Qing Yan allowed them to sit, and took the chance to glance at Xian Wang Fei. Long narrow eyebrows, expressive eyes, a lower of a mouth —she did have some assets to tempt people. But even so, the other had to docilely kneel in front of her.

“Ben gong has troubled everyone; ben gong really feels very apologetic. Please use some tea and refreshments to rest.” Zhang Qing Yan curled her lips slightly and showed a perfect smile. After courteously exchanging a few words with the older qinwang fei, she inally pulled the topic to Hua Xi Wan.

“People say that Xian Wang Fei is devastatingly beautiful. Ben gong has never had the luck to see, and having seen you today, it really is true that seeing once is better than hearing a hundred times. Xian Wang Fei’s beauty can be said to be devastating.” Zhang Qing Yan jerked her lips. “Even ben gong feels affection when looking at you.”

The eyebrows of the older qinwang fei moved slightly. Empress Zhang was just sixteen, but these words were too… Saying that Xian Wang Fei was devastatingly beautiful in front of the people of the Imperial House —they really didn’t know if this was praise or something spoken with

other intentions. No one was stupid. When they thought of the rumors this recent while, about how Empress Zhang was more beautiful than Xian Wang Fei, they immediately understood. Empress Zhang was comparing herself to Xian Wang Fei.

In terms of appearance, Empress Zhang was outstanding, but not as lively as Xian Wang Fei. In terms of presence, Empress Zhang was from a cadet branch of the Zhang Family—how could she compare to Xian Wang Fei whose parents were both from prestigious families? So the only aspect in which Empress Zhang was better than Xian Wang Fei was that phoenix robe on her body.

Also, this advantage in the future…

Ning Wang Fei coughed and then said with a smile, “Xian Wang Fei is naturally virtuous and beautiful.” In this phrase, what was emphasized was virtue and not appearance.

Zhang Qing Yan could hear that Ning Wang Fei was helping Hua Xi Wan. She couldn’t help but frown. Didn’t the rumors say that Ning Wang was not close to Xian Wang? Why was Ning Wang Fei helping Xian Wang Fei?

Noticing the change in Zhang Qing Yan’s expression, Ning Wang Fei snorted inside. As expected of one from a minor family. She didn’t even have brains for this. How could she survive the imperial palace in the future?

Xu Wang Fei was also shaking her head inwardly. This Second Empress Zhang was too rash. She didn’t even know what the state of the court was now and yet dared to move. She didn’t know whether to praise the Empress for being open of mind or for lacking brains.

Others did not know that Ning Wang had been trying to show goodwill to Xian Wang, but she did. The present situation seemed peaceful, but it would explode at any touch. The Crown Prince had died suddenly, and the imperial grandson was fated to not be able to ascend the throne given the rumors and the time of his birth. The Emperor clearly disliked Sheng Junwang. While he was just so-so to Xian Wang, considering Xian Wang’s support among the people, the likelihood that he could take the throne wasn’t small.

When Ning Wang had been supporting the Crown Prince, he had formed terrible relations with the people of Sheng Junwang. Now that the Crown Prince was gone, he could support anyone but Sheng Junwang. It was normal for him to lean towards Xian Wang.

Empress Zhang couldn’t even see this, yet she dared to show on her face what she really thought in front of the noblewomen of the Imperial House. She really was too shallow.

Hua Xi Wan also detected that Zhang Qing Yan seemed to be targeting her. She did not show anything in her expression. She stood and made a shallow curtsy towards Zhang Qing Yan. She said with a faint smile, “Empress is too complimentary. Qie is just a common person and cannot support such a beautiful reputation.”

“Xian Wang Fei does not need to be so humble,” Zhang Qing Yan said with an insincere smile. “Everyone in Jing knows this.”

The smile on Hua Xi Wan’s face did not change. “There are not many in Jing who have seen qie. That is just people’s talk. Also, beauty is something that does not last. A hundred years later, we all will be dust.”

“Xian Wang Fei is really open of mind.” Zhang Qing Yan gave a mocking laugh. “No wonder Xian Wang is so in love.”

Hua Xi Wan glanced at Zhang Qing Yan and then said in a light voice, “We are husband and wife, loving and never separated. His Majesty had created this for qie and Wang Ye. Qie and Wang Ye are extremely grateful. How can we not love each other?”

Seeing Hua Xi Wan pulling out the Emperor in her words, Zhang Qing Yan did not dare to speak more. She raised her teacup and said in a cool voice, “It is late. Ben gong will not keep you. Take care.”

Hua Xi Wan had a smile on her face as she curtsied with the other qinwang fei towards Empress Zhang before leaving.

After Hua Xi Wan’s group left, Zhang Qing Yan angrily slammed the teacup down. She gritted out in a curse, “Frivolous thing.”

The servant girls and taijian in the hall did not dare to breathe or lift their heads. They stood silently where they should, as though they did not hear Empress Zhang’s words.

Two hours passed. The words that Zhang Qing Yan said in the hall reached Qilong Emperor’s ears. After Qilong Emperor heard the palace servant’s report, he frowned with slight dissatisfaction. Moments later, he said neutrally, “From a small house; we cannot ask too much.”

These words did not seem to be a great criticism, but they pushed Empress Zhang into the mud. Originally, the Zhang Family could be considered a prestigious family. While Empress Zhang was not of the main branch, she was of the cadet branch. Now that the Emperor said this, it was as though he looked down on Zhang shi’s birth.

The cadet branch was the cadet branch—how could it compare to the main branch?

“Didn’t the little countries in the east give some novel things in tribute? Have someone deliver a share to Xian Wang Fu.” Qilong Emperor closed the painting scroll in his hands with some impatience. “The second empress is young now. Zhen does not bear for her to work too hard. Have Shu Fei take care of the matters of the inner palace. She is an experienced person, gentle in personality, and de initely can take care of these matters.” He thought and then added, “Have the phoenix seal stay there. It will be easier to do things.”

An empress who could not manage the inner palace or hold the phoenix seal. In this palace, what kind of awkward position was this?

Shu Fei was stunned for a long time after she received the decree from Qilong Emperor. After the taijian left and she had someone investigate, she learned what had happened in the morning. Empress Zhang had been inappropriate in speech in front of the noblewomen?

Did she want to die or did her brains not work?

A second empress who had just entered the palace did not try to learn to be gentle and generous, but started to act as though she was the empress. Did she really think that the other people in the Imperial House were just decorations? Was she, a second empress of insigni icant birth, one who could mention the love and relationship between Xian Wang and Xian Wang Fei?

Even the demoted empress Fang shi had been extremely polite when she received the imperial noblewomen. Who was as frivolous as Empress Zhang?

No wonder the Emperor did not want Empress Zhang to hold power. If such an empress managed the inner palace, she didn’t know what could happen.

“Xian Wang Fei was slighted. As an elder, ben gong cannot pretend that nothing has happened.” Shu Fei thought the matter through and had

someone take things from her private stores and ind an excuse to deliver them to Xian Wang Fu. While nothing speci ic was mentioned, those who had knowledge of the matter knew that Shu Fei’s actions represented the Emperor’s intentions.

This also proved what everyone was thinking—the Emperor placed great importance on Xian Wang.

Many people who were watching the spectacle had thoughts. However, Sheng Junwang Yan Bo Yi was unable to remain calm and still. Because of Hou shi, many of the people in power in prestigious families had distanced themselves from him. Adding on the fact that the Emperor was inding all kinds of excuses to suppress the power he had in the shadows, he worried that, if this continued, he would not have any chance of victory.

Looking in the direction of the palace, Yan Bo Yi thought for a long time before turning to the person behind him and saying, “After the Crown Prince passed away from illness, the Emperor has not been in a good mood. What do you think about him being heavily ill and unable to get up soon?”

The person behind him was silent for a moment before slowly speaking. “The Emperor’s body has been weak for a long time. It is normal if he suddenly falls sick.”

Yan Bo Yi nodded. “Then we will seize the opportunity.”

He could not put on a play like Yan Jin Qiu, nor did he have such good luck to encounter an outstanding family for in-laws. However, he had more resolve than Yan Jin Qiu. If a man wanted to achieve something, he had to be vicious enough.

That Yan Jin Qiu who was not vicious enough, who was just a good actor and had a good family for in-laws, was just smashing a teacup.

“What is that Zhang shi—she dares to harass Xi Wan?!”

Mu Tong silently took a step back and swallowed his following words.

He hadn’t had the time to tell Wang Ye that Wang Fei had given the Empress a few stabs later on.

“This servant Bai Xia greets Wang Ye. Wang Ye, Wang Fei invites you over.” Bai Xia’s voice sounded outside.

Yan Jin Qiu’s hand that was reaching towards the other teacup stopped. Then his tone recovered its usual calm. “Return and tell Wang Fei that I will be there immediately.”

The sound of Bai Xia’s footsteps gradually faded. Mu Tong looked at the dark-faced wang ye and sighed inside.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter One Hundred and One: Criminal Servant

When Yan Jin Qiu entered the room, he had the servants who were not needed leave. It was a habit that he had formed at some unknown time. He found that he did not need to be so guarded around Hua Xi Wan—as though around her, he had a chance to breathe.

Maybe it was the other’s lazy habits that had infected him?

Seeing him enter, Hua Xi Wan only waved a hand at him out of laziness rather than get up, and motioned for him to sit down next to her.

Detecting something unusual in Hua Xi Wan’s gaze, Yan Jin Qiu asked, “Did something happen?”

“Do you still remember Min Huai Junzhu?” Hua Xi Wan looked directly at Yan Jin Qiu and waited for his response.

Yan Jin Qiu’s brow creased slightly. “She is making trouble for you?”

Hua Xi Wan shook her head and then said, “No, a few days ago when I went to Shu Fei’s palace, I accidentally heard Shu Fei mention her. I hadn’t thought anything of it, but just now I thought of a suspicious matter. Is Min Huai Junzhu really on the side of Princess Rui He?”

He hadn’t expected Hua Xi Wan to have a thought like this. Yan Jin Qiu stilled slightly and then said indifferently, “It is not important what side she is on. Now that the Crown Prince’s group has fallen, she, as a piece on the chessboard, has no use. The person in the shadows cannot be seen to be very kind in keeping her—he just doesn’t want the chaotic Jing to be even more chaotic.”

Hearing such ruthless words, Hua Xi Wan gave a complicated smile. She believed that Min Huai Junzhu felt something for Yan Jin Qiu, but that emotion was not strong enough for her to change sides. A person as smart as Yan Jin Qiu would de initely know what Min Huai Junzhu felt, but that bit of emotion wasn’t enough for him to do anything.

Living in an environment like this, was it luck or calamity to be born as one of the Imperial House?

She had suspected Min Huai Junzhu a long time ago, and had a strong feeling that she was related to the poisoning of the Crown Prince.

In the time after the Crown Prince had come out of the heavenly prison, all of Zhu Que Palace had been barricaded and waterproof. All the ancestors and backgrounds of the people who were serving were clean, and anyone who was suspicious at all wouldn’t be able to go near the Crown Prince. However, the Crown Prince had still died. The only people who could have done it were those on the Crown Prince’s side and who were trusted by the Empress.

At the start, she had suspected it was the Crown Princess. However, the Crown Princess had been pregnant at the time. The previous empress had also had opinions about her affair with the Emperor. How could she not guard against the Crown Princess?

The ones most suspicious were Princess Rui He who was deeply trusted by the Empress, and Min Huai Junzhu. Princess Rui He was not likely to kill the Crown Prince unless she wanted to become emperor herself. This princess who was only interested in a luxurious life and her men did not have courage. So the the Crown Prince succeeding to the throne would be her irst choice. A cousin could not compare to her brother.

Then the last possibility was Min Huai Junzhu. She had the ability and also the motive.

When she thought about some matters, she would feel that everyone around her was an unfathomable expert. Hua Xi Wan thought herself a lazy person, so she did not want to meddle much. She had told her guess to Yan Jin Qiu. It would be his own problem how he wanted to deal with this matter.

Yan Jin Qiu naturally understood that, with Hua Xi Wan’s personality, she disliked worrying about such matters. He personally poured a cup of tea and presented it to her, saying with a smile, “This husband has nothing with which to repay Furen for thinking on behalf of this husband, and can only promise you my body.”

“You have already promised it to me—you want to promise it twice?” Hua Xi Wan took a light sip of the tea. She raised her chin slightly and said, “Or do you mean to say that, in your mind, you had no relationship to me at all previously?”

Yan Jin Qiu would admit that he was never Hua Xi Wan’s match in arguments like this. He reached out with a hand and pulled her into his embrace. Then he brushed a kiss on her cheek. “Since Furen has said this, then this husband will repay you with work.”

The curtains came down lightly and covered the gentleness in the room.

In the side room, Bai Xia and Hong Ying were sitting together and embroidering. Hong Ying looked outside at the color of the sky, and said in a small voice, “Wang Ye has been in there for more than an hour.”

Bai Xia said without raising her head, “When Wang Ye and Wang Fei need servants, there naturally will be many people to serve. What are you worrying for?”

“I’m just worried.” Hong Ying sighed and said, “A few days ago, I heard Shu Fei say that Min Huai Junzhu seems to be heavily ill. Bai Xia Jiejie, you also know what Min Huai Junzhu thinks about Wang Ye. I’m afraid that Wang Ye will feel sympathy for her and it will affect his relationship with Wang Fei.”

“You are smart when you should not be, and you are not dumb when you need to be,” Bai Xia said in a lowered voice. “Shu Fei just mentioned that to remind Wang Fei. We are servant girls; we only need to learn how to listen less and do more. Should it be your turn to worry about such things?”

When they had entered Shu Fei’s place that day, they had irst encountered Sheng Junwang outside the palace. When they were leaving, Shu Fei had mentioned the matter that Min Huai Junzhu was seriously ill.

The things that noble personages in the palace said could not be taken as what they meant on the surface. What was the connection Wang Fei had to Min Huai Junzhu’s illness that Shu Fei had given a deliberate reminder? It was just to remind Wang Fei to be careful of Min Huai Junzhu, to guard against her actions.

“This Min Huai Junzhu—a junzhu should not think about a man already married. Does she want to lower herself to be a cefei in the wang fu?” Hong Ying muttered in discontent. There wasn’t any member of the Imperial Family with a title who had married a qinwang to be their concubine; that would be embarrassing.

The name of cefei was pleasing to hear as it contained the word fei, but in reality, it was just a concubine. Unless you made a great contribution to the Imperial House, you would not even be able to be added to the family register.

“What are you thinking about?” Bai Xia sighed helplessly. “While Min Huai Junzhu does not have power, she would not become a concubine of Wang Ye unless her family commits a major crime, and she is demoted to a criminal and is sent as a servant to the wang fu. Otherwise, even if she is willing to become a concubine, the other people will not agree.”

Convention would not allow this, the Yan clan would not allow this, and even Wang Ye would not agree.

Bai Xia was just puzzling it out with Hong Ying, but her words became true. On the seventh day after the new empress had entered the palace, the Yuan Family caused the Emperor to spit blood out of anger. There were more than ten crimes they were accused of: selling government of ices, killing common people, seizing land illegally, and fraud.

Two days later, all of the Yuan Family were demoted to the criminal strata. However, in consideration of Princess Shun Yi who had passed away, the Emperor pardoned them from the punishment of tattooing. Nevertheless, they were still sent into exile, conscripted into the army, and turned into servants without any mercy.

In the mind of the Emperor, the Yuan Family that Princess Shun Yi had married into was of the same side as the previous empress. The previous empress had done so many things detrimental to him, making him displeased with the Yuan Family since a long time ago. Now that they had been found guilty of so many crimes, how could he have mercy?

In this time, almost all the clans that were connected to the demoted empress and were close to the Fang Family felt in danger. They hid in their homes and did not easily come out. None of them would ask for mercy for the Yuan Family.

Yuan Shu Yi had originally been the endlessly pampered Min Huai Junzhu, but now she needed to take off her silk dresses and put on hemp clothes. Just like the other Yuan Family females, she had to wait for the Department of Internal Affairs to arrange her new life as a servant.

She sat in the sparsely furnished room and looked at her skin rubbed raw by the rough fabric. Her eyes were full of regret and discontent.

The Emperor’s decree clearly stated that the daughters of the Yuan Family who had married were not part of the Yuan Family, and so they had nothing to do with the crimes of the Yuan Family. If she had married a year ago, how could she have ended up like this?

If she had married, with her mind and talent, she would have been able to entrap the heart of her husband and become a noblewoman whom others would admire. Not like now, with her household register changed to that of a criminal and her having to serve others.

Looking at her younger cousin who was sleeping sweetly behind her, she touched the golden bangle that she had secretly hidden by her waist. Her eyes lit up just like a drowning person’s who grabbed the last piece of loatwood.

Because of the major events that had happened frequently in the last two years, the people in Jing were calm. Compared to the major events that had caused gossip previously, the Yuan Family that once had a princess marry into being punished was not worth a mention.

The Yuan Family had once been a famous clan, so there were many of the Yuan Family females who were sent to the members of the Imperial Family as servants. Basically, all of the Imperial Family members who had some power got one or two.

As a super-ranking qinwang fu, Xian Wang Fu got three of these “exquisite articles.” It was a pity that when Chief Steward Mu Tong saw these three “exquisite articles,” his head started to hurt.

What was the assistant of the Department of Internal Affairs thinking to have sent Min Huai Junzhu over here? Did he want to cause trouble? He glanced at Yuan Shu Yi whose head and eyes were lowered demurely. He said coolly, “You were all ladies in the past, but the present is not the same. Entering the wang fu, you have to abide by the protocols of the wang fu and not mention the relationships of the past. If you offend noble personages, you will be punished severely.”

While not many in Jing knew that Yuan Shu Yi had a lame for Wang Ye, it was not a secret. It seemed that someone had purposefully got Yuan Shu Yi into Xian Wang Fu to create problems. While the move was low, if Wang Fei was an average female, she might actually argue with Wang Ye.

But their wang fei… She wasn’t any average woman.

Thinking about this, Mu Tong looked with pity at Yuan Shu Yi. “All right, that is all I have to say. The three of you, irst learn the rules with the servants. After you do, then you can serve the masters.”

He had to irst notify Wang Ye and Wang Fei. He hoped that this Min Huai Junzhu would know her place. Otherwise, before Wang Fei acted, Wang Ye would not be merciful to her.

“What are you saying—Min Huai Junzhu was really sent to the wang fu?” Hong Ying’s eyes were wide. When she realized that her voice had gotten loud, she hurriedly lowered it and said to Mu Tong. “Mu gonggong, what happened?”

Mu Tong grimaced and said, “Miss Hong Ying, this one is also puzzled and so has come to ask for guidance from Wang Fei on what to do with Miss Yuan.”

“This is not the best time. Wang Ye and Wang Fei are reading inside. Wang Ye had us come out and said we are not to disrupt them unless it is a major matter. You see…” After hearing about this, Bai Xia looked apologetically at Mu Tong with con lict in her eyes.

“Miss Bai Xia is too serious. That Yuan Shu Yi is just a criminal; she is not worth disrupting Wang Ye and Wang Fei’s peace,” Mu Tong said with a smile. “But this one has other matters. Miss Bai Xia, please report for this one.”

“Mu gonggong is too polite.” Bai Xia returned a warm smile. “This servant will de initely report this matter. Mu gonggong, take care.”

“Many thanks.” Mu Tong raised his hands in a bow to Bai Xia and then left. He did not try again at all.

Novel generated at novelepubs.com

Chapter 102

Chapter One Hundred and Two: No Response

Because the Yuan Family were presently criminals, the Yuan Family members who had been sent as servants to other families were not treated specially. The masters who were kind treated them like normal servants, those who were harsher purposefully bullied them in order to fawn on the Emperor. Consequently, in just one month, several of the Yuan Family juniors who had lived in luxury before killed themselves.

When Yuan Shu Yi heard that her younger female cousin who had been close to her had killed herself, she was so frightened she hid in her room and cried for half a night. But on the second day, she still had to learn the rules with the wang fusteward.

The rules of Xian Wang Fu were strict, and it was rare for the servants to have dissention. Therefore, after Yuan Shu Yi entered the fu, she was not bullied. In the eyes of these people, she was the same as the other low-level servants.

But because she was treated the same, she felt unspeakably uncomfortable and awkward. She could even guess the disdain these people had under their expressionless faces. The honored junzhu had become a criminal servant who was even lower than them in status— how ironic. These people inally had things to talk about over tea—how great was that?

“You have all come into the wang fu for a month. While you are still clumsy, you can manage to serve. Now, I will send you to different departments, and have the stewards arrange your duties.” A steward looked at the dozen or so males and females in front of him. Other than the three who had special identities, the rest had been bought and strictly selected to enter the wang fu. They were smart, close-mouthed, worked hard, had clean family histories, and would be able to be put into slightly more important positions.

As for the three girls from the Yuan Family…

The steward thought of what Chief Steward Mu had said. He said expressionlessly, “When I call your name, go report to the steward.”

Yuan Shu Yi was sent to work under a steward responsible for taking care of the lora in the wang fu. This job was not extremely tiring, and the people were simple. However, they could not easily enter the inner compound. The servants who quali ied to send lowers and plants beyond the second gate were all those who had worked in the fu for three years or more. Those like Yuan Shu Yi didn’t even have the ability to touch the second gate.

After working for almost two months in the Flora Pavilion, Yuan Shu Yi inally gave up on the idea of using the excuse of delivering lowers to get near Xian Wang. She became more and more hard-working, but the desire inside her became even stronger.

If she had been bullied deliberately after entering the fu, she would have had an excuse to see Cousin, but no one had bullied her. She hadn’t seen a shadow of Hua Xi Wan’s servants. It was as though her existence was not important at all to Hua Xi Wan.

She didn’t believe that Hua Xi Wan didn’t know anything about her feelings for Cousin. But now that she had entered the fu, the other hadn’t responded at all. Was the other able to keep her composure so well?

Just as she was worrying about the future, a higher-ranked steward came and pointed at them.

“All of you, go to the yard outside and look closely for weeds. In a few days, Wang Fei is going to have a crab banquet for the noble personages of Yi’an Marquis Fuand General Lu’s fu. There cannot be any missteps.” The steward looked at the people he had picked. He put his hands behind his back and then said, “It has been a long time since Wang Fei has married, and this is the irst time that she is having such a great

banquet. If there is any mistake which displeases the guests, then all of you will be punished.”

Yuan Shu Yi’s head was lowered but she was sneering inside. What noble personages? The Lu Family was Hua Xi Wan’s maternal family, the Hua Family was her paternal family. They were just her family members —were they worth the wang fu treating them with such seriousness?

She was dismissive inside, but she had to admit deep inside that with how much importance Xian Wang placed on Hua Xi Wan, the members of Hua Xi Wan’s family’s status in the wang fu would rise as well.

Autumn crabs were fat and sweet. After Hua Xi Wan received the tribute from the servants, she had only just planned to send some to her paternal family. But Yan Jin Qiu had to say that he had never received her paternal family, so he wanted to use the crab banquet to get closer to her paternal family.

Hua Xi Wan did not refuse. While she did not know if Yan Jin Qiu just wanted to get to know them better or had other intentions, she had intentions of having her family talk more with Yan Jin Qiu. With the present situation in Jing, even if the Hua and Lu Families wanted to stay apart, they were still on Xian Wang’s side in the eyes of other people.

Now that the situation had become white-hot, she would not naively think that the Hua and Lu clansmen didn’t have thoughts of their own. Therefore, she would have them meet and would not interfere with the results.

The wang fu started to become busy at Yan Jin Qiu’s orders. In the time that Hua Xi Wan took a noon nap, all kinds of beautiful purple and red chrysanthemums had appeared in the wang fu.

In her previous life, chrysanthemums had ranked irst among the lowers that had been ruined for meaning. Chrysanthemums had once

been the representation of cleanliness and beauty, but had been twisted into such an x-rated word.

“Wang Fei, the chrysanthemums outside are beautiful. Do you want to take a look?” Hua Xi Wan was usually indolent, and when it was afternoon, she liked to curl up on the soft couch and not move. Therefore, her servant girls always tried to think of ways to get her to move. Today, they found the excuse of admiring lowers.

Hua Xi Wan looked at the descending sun in the sky, and the anticipating gazes of her servant girls. She nodded helplessly and led a group of servants out the door.

The scenery inside the second gate was naturally beautiful. There was a new scene every three steps. The chrysanthemums that had been put out were carefully cared for and were extremely valuable breeds. They displayed the status of the wang fu.

When she reached the second gate, Hua Xi Wan did not plan on going out, but she saw a slightly familiar igure by the corner of the second gate. She looked closely at the person. When she heard the noise outside, she couldn’t help but look into the distance. Yan Jin Qiu was coming with two attendants, and the servants along the way bowed.

Yan Jin Qiu was striding towards the inner compound when he saw Hua Xi Wan standing by the second gate. He sped up his strides to come in front of Hua Xi Wan and easily grasped her hand. “Why are you standing here?”

“Just now, the girls persuaded me to come to admire the chrysanthemums. I couldn’t refuse them, so I came out to see and unconsciously walked here.” Hua Xi Wan smiled at Yan Jin Qiu. “How is it that you came back so late? The soup that I had them make is overcooked.”

“Soup will be more tasteful if it is simmered longer,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a smile. “There are many matters in court. After things calm down, I will accompany you to the estate to soak in the hot springs.” Finishing, he pulled Hua Xi Wan’s hand in preparation to walk inside.

‘Bam!” The sound of a lowerpot crashing on the ground sounded.

Yan Jin Qiu turned around. He saw the shattered lowerpot and the chrysanthemum that had been squashed by the soil. He said indifferently, “Not diligent in ful illing duties, deduct a month’s wages.”

Yuan Shu Yi looked with an ashen expression at the broken lowerpot in front of her. When she thought of Cousin looking at her with a stranger’s gaze, her expression became even uglier.

Cold stares landed on her from all directions. No one spoke to mock her, but this kind of unspeakable dif iculty crushed her self-esteem into the ground.

It should not be like this. Cousin’s character was warm, and she was talented. Even if Cousin did not feel that for her, at least, he would feel some pity. Why would he look at her with that kind of gaze? It was as though he was looking at a true servant, and she had no connection to him.

Discontent chewed at her heart, and she was unable to calmly face everything.

What was so good about Hua Xi Wan? Didn’t she just have a face more beautiful than other women?

Yet no matter how displeased Yuan Shu Yi felt, Hua Xi Wan and Yan Jin Qiu happily inished the evening meal and then started to listen to the zither musician play.

The sound was melodious. Yan Jin Qiu looked with a smile at Hua Xi Wan. “Tomorrow, Maternal Grandfather’s family, Father-in-law and Mother-in-law are coming to our fu. Tell me what I need to avoid.”

“In front of Wang Ye, what do they have that cannot be discussed?” Hua Xi Wan curled her lips. “The only thing to notice is that my maternal family likes to eat meat and only knows to speak straightforwardly.”

“The Lu Clan is full of loyalty, and it is normal for them to have straightforward personalities,” Yan Jin Qiu said emotionally. “If all the

of icials in the world were like Grandfather’s family, that would be the people’s fortune.”

Hua Xi Wan shook her head. “Wang Ye is wrong. It is a good trait for Grandfather’s family to be straightforward, but if all the of icials were like that, it would not be easy to govern.”

For example, in places like the Ministry of Rites, the Ministry of Revenue and the Imperial Academy, if every of icial acted like her grandfather’s family, there would be ights every day, and the departments would never be at peace.

Yan Jin Qiu had not expected Hua Xi Wan to say this. He smiled helplessly. “You are right; I was thinking too simply.”

Hua Xi Wan smiled but did not speak. How could a person like Yan Jin Qiu not think of this? He was just intentionally elevating her maternal family in front of her. But while Yan Jin Qiu was elevating them, she did not want Yan Jin Qiu to always do so.

The two then talked about some minor gossip in Jing before Hua Xi Wan suddenly said, “You saw Yuan Shu Yi this afternoon?”

Yan Jin Qiu unconcernedly switched Hua Xi Wan’s tea for a hotter one. “What, she is not obeying the rules?”

“She’s all right.” Hua Xi Wan moved her gaze away slightly. “I just feel that she does not have it easy.”

Yan Jin Qiu’s lips curled and seemed slightly mocking. “She was able to come to our fu—how could she be someone without any ability?”

The Emperor disliked the demoted empress, and even disliked the Yuan Family that had been close to the previous empress. How could he be willing to send Yuan Shu Yi to his fu? This wasn’t the Emperor’s style.

The only possibility was that someone in the shadows had pushed Yuan Shu Yi to have her successfully enter Xian Wang Fu.

It was a pity that what he disliked the most was people scheming against him. Even if it was his own sister, he would not allow the other to scheme against him, much less a distant cousin.

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Chapter One Hundred and Three: No Blood On The Sword

Hua Xi Wan was not surprised by Yan Jin Qiu’s response at all. Her personal servant girls sighed in relief at this. Since Wang Ye had such an attitude, it meant that he did not place any importance at all on Yuan Shu Yi.

There were some relationships between males and females that were the most dangerous, for example, maternal cousins, foster siblings, or close friends. Who knew when these innocent relationships would become not innocent?

At night, husband and wife had a great night. After Yan Jin Qiu went to court in the morning, a servant reported to Hua Xi Wan that Yuan Shu Yi wanted to see her.

“Yuan Shu Yi wants to see me?” Hua Xi Wan touched the phoenix hairpin in her hair as she looked in the copper mirror. After drawing a yellow lower on her forehead, she said, “She is a low-ranked servant— what does she want to see me for?”

The servant who was reporting raised her head slightly. After seeing the patterns on Hua Xi Wan’s grand dress, she quickly lowered her head. Her tone was slightly nervous. “She said she had an important secret to tell you concerning the wang fu. This servant did not dare to delay and came to report.”

“Oh?” Hua Xi Wan raised an eyebrow. She slowly stood up holding Bai Xia’s hand. “Tell her to wait outside.”

“Yes.” Seeing Wang Fei not put any blame on her, the servant inwardly sighed in relief. After curtsying, she left. When she walked out of the inner yard, she looked at Yuan Shu Yi who was now a low-ranked servant but still put makeup on her lips and eyebrows. She said with an ugly expression, “Wang Fei tells you to wait for someone to call you in.” Finishing, she did not care whether Yuan Shu Yi had heard her and hurriedly walked away after cursing.

Yuan Shu Yi’s face was slightly ugly. But when she looked at the luxurious inner courtyard through the round gates, the discontent on her face was pushed down and it was turned into docility.

She stood for about half an hour outside before a green-robed servant girl inally led her in. With her present status, she did not qualify for Wang Fei to receive her in the main hall, so the servant girl led her to the side hall before leaving.

Yuan Shu Yi had come to Xian Wang Fu before. However, while she had felt at the time that Xian Wang Fu’s scenery was good, it was not as astounding at it was now. She found that every chair and table was made from famed and valuable wood. Any chair, if it was sold outside, would be enough for a normal family to survive for a few years.

She heard the sound of footsteps behind her and turned back to look. Hua Xi Wan walked in surrounded by people. The cloth that she wore

lashed with light and color, and seemed magni icent and noble. The embroidery on the hems seemed to be alive. It was enough for many women to feel admiration. The buyao in her hair of a phoenix holding a pearl in its beak was worth cities. Adding on her devastating beauty— how many women would want to take her place?

Watching as Hua Xi Wan came closer, Yuan Shu Yi couldn’t help but move her rough hands back into her sleeves. She curtsied appropriately. “This servant greets Wang Fei.”

Hua Xi Wan stopped walking to glance at Yuan Shu Yi. Then, using Bai Xia’s hand as support, she sat down at the front.

Yuan Shu Yi had thought that the other would pretend to be friendly and not let her curtsy. Her lips tensed. But since Hua Xi Wan did not speak, she could only hold her body in a bent position.

Having seen acting before, Hua Xi Wan would not slight herself by pretending to be gentle and kind. She took the stomach-warming tea that Hong Ying handed ove

r and took a sip before saying, “You can stand up. I heard that you have something to tell me?”

Did the great Xian Wang Fei not understand to be more tactful in speech?

Yuan Shu Yi stilled and then looked around. Her expression was secretive. “Please, Wang Fei, have everyone else leave.”

Hua Xi Wan raised her head. The servants in the room left, but Hong Ying and Bai Xia were still standing behind her.

Yuan Shu Yi glanced at Hong Ying and Bai Xia. The respectfulness on her face disappeared without a trace. She said, “This matter is unusual. You may not believe what I say, but it is all true.”

Hua Xi Wan looked silently at her, waiting to hear the astounding secret.

“Last year, Young Master Zhang’s corpse was found in the suburbs in terrible condition. Do you know who the mastermind is?”

Hua Xi Wan propped her chin on her hand and still didn’t speak.

Seeing the calmness on Hua Xi Wan’s face, Yuan Shu Yi gritted her teeth and said, “The mastermind is your husband, Xian Wang.”

“Why should I believe you?” Hua Xi Wan asked wryly. “I should not believe the person by my pillow but believe a woman who desires the person by my pillow—do you feel that I am this stupid?”

“I don’t know if you are stupid, but I understand the great cunning of your husband.” Yuan Shu Yu gritted her teeth and said, “And also his brother-in-law. You really think that it was the Crown Prince and his older sister who acted?”

“En, this is a daring speculation.” Hua Xi Wan lazily rubbed her chin with her index inger. “Regardless of whether this is the truth or not, even it is true, it is just a minor matter to me.”

Yuan Shu Yi’s expression changed slightly. She looked in astonishment at Hua Xi Wan. As a woman, having found that the person sleeping beside her was a cold-blooded and ruthless person, didn’t she feel any discomfort at all?

“How about I talk about you?” Hua Xi Wan stood to walk in front of Yuan Shu Yi and said with a small smile, “Since you know that he is a person like that, why do you still yearn for him? Or, you have created such an implausible story to drive apart me and Zi Ling, and then take advantage to enter?”

Yuan Shu Yi snorted coldly and said, “Don’t believe me then.” She did have thoughts like that, but Hua Xi Wan’s disbelieving attitude made her feel that there was nothing she could do.

Seeing her attitude, Hua Xi Wan snorted. “It is up to you to say, and up to me to believe.”

Seeing Hua Xi Wan like this, Yuan Shu Yi felt as though she wanted to slap the other. However, the circumstances were not in her favor, and she could only endure.

“Do you have something else to say? If not, you can leave.” Hua Xi Wan gradually put away the smile on her face. “However, there is something I want to say. Since you have entered this wang fu, forget your past.”

Yuan Shu Yi’s expression became discomforted for a moment. At this time, she heard the sound of footsteps outside the door and immediately had a thought.

“Wang Fei, this servant does not have such intentions—spare me!”

When Yan Jin Qiu entered the yard, he heard a slightly familiar and shrill voice from the side hall. Then there was the sound of chairs and tables crashing together.

His expression darkened slightly, and he looked at the servants guarding outside. He walked forward and kicked open the door to the side hall. Then he saw Yuan Shu Yi lying next to the table, her forehead bleeding, and her body soaked as though someone had thrown water on her. Hua Xi Wan was being supported by her servant girl’s hand as she stood at the side and looked with a cold expression at Yuan Shu Yi.

“Cousin…” Yuan Shu Yi held her head and wanted to stand. She forced herself to stand and then she fell down again. She looked helpless and pitiful.

There were many servants around, but no one looked up. All of them stopped breathing and focused as though they did not hear nor see anything.

After Yan Jin Qiu saw the state of the room, his expression became uglier. In the end, he said, “Someone come!”

Yuan Shu Yi looked at Hua Xi Wan though her ingers and showed a scornful smile.

“Take this servant down!” Yan Jin Qiu said coldly. “She disturbed Wang Fei’s peace. Her crime cannot be pardoned—ten strikes with the staff.”

Yuan Shu YI looked with an ashen face at Yan Jin Qiu. She had never thought that Yan Jin Qiu would make such a choice. She twisted her head to look at Hua Xi Wan and saw the other showing a slight smile, as though she had expected that Yan Jin Qiu would react like this.

A taijian quickly covered Yuan Shu Yi’s mouth and pulled her away. From beginning to end, she didn’t even have the chance to speak.

She was pushed by the taijian onto a wide bench and received ten heavy blows. Yuan Shu Yi was in such pain she almost wasn’t able to stand. When she raised her head and looked at the servants in the surroundings with their indifferent expressions, she almost fainted.

She touched her forehead. The blood had stopped lowing. When she thought of how she had gathered her courage to hit her head on the corner of the table, she couldn’t help but feel hate. Were all of her schemes insuf icient against Hua Xi Wan’s face?

In the inner yard, Hua Xi Wan said with a smile, “How is it that court ended so early today?”

“There is a banquet today. Of course I would think of a way to return to the fuearlier.” Yan Jin Qiu changed out of the wang robe with its embroidered dragon patterns and put on his usual brocade robe. “At this time, they will be coming soon?”

“It will not be so early. You have just returned from court—isn’t it the same with my grandfather and father?” Hua Xi Wan smiled. “Just now, I thought that you would feel pity for your pitiful cousin.”

“You are a wang fei—you have many ways of tormenting her. There is no reason why you would have to act in person,” Yan Jin Qiu said with disdain. “Yuan Shu Yi thinks of me as a brainless man.”

Hua Xi Wan laughed lightly and didn’t speak. Actually, Yuan Shu Yi had not underestimated Yan Jin Qiu’s cunning, but she forgot something— injuring herself to gain sympathy only worked on people who would pity her. For a man who never had her in his heart or mind, any action that was the slightest bit deliberate would become obvious.

Yuan Shu Yi had schemed for all these coincidences, but she had not calculated for the minds of people. Even if she really wanted to harm Yuan Shi Yu, it was just a minor matter to Yan Jin Qiu, not to mention that Yan Jin Qiu knew that she would not act like this towards a woman.

For a man who did not care about her, she wasn’t worth anything.

As Hua Xi Wan reached out to adjust Yan Jin Qiu’s robes, Yan Jin Qiu grasped her hand and smiled slightly at her.

At the side, Bai Xia saw this, and thought of a phrase.

The gentleman is peerless, the beauty is as jade.

Hong Ying lightly pulled on the corner of her robe and then said in a small voice, “Let’s go into the outer yard to receive Furen and the old taitai. They will probably have arrived now.”

Bai Xia nodded. The two silently left the inner yard before Hong Ying said, “Was Yuan Shu Yi delivered to the Punishment Room for her punishment?”

Bai Xia frowned. “This Miss Yuan is a cunning one who is vicious to herself.”

It was a pity that she encountered a man like Wang Ye and a female like Wang Fei.

“This woman is really shameless,” Hong Ying said with discontent. “I really don’t know why the Department of Internal Affairs sent her here. Do they think the rumors at the beginning were not enough?”

The Department of Internal Affairs still sent her to the wang fu knowing Yuan Shu Yi’s feelings towards Wang Ye. Were they at odds with Wang Fei?

This was bullying people.

“There are so many people in the Department of Internal Affairs—who knows what they all think?” Bai Xia looked back in the direction of the yard with a faint smile.

Little problems like this would not pose a dif iculty to a truly strong woman.

“You are right. Wang Fei is so smart—what can Yuan Shu Yi’s little machinations do to Wang Fei?”

Bai Xia smiled.

Just now, it appeared that Yuan Shu Yi had tried to trick Wang Fei and failed, but maybe this had been Wang Fei deliberately luring Yuan Shu Yi into making such a risky move.

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Chapter One Hundred and Four: The Winds Rise Again

When Sun shi got off the carriage, she sped up to walk behind Lu shi and reached out a hand in support. “Mother-in-law, be careful of the stairs ahead.”

“The honored guests have arrived.” Mu Tong was personally waiting by the gates. Seeing the members of the wang fei’s paternal family arrive, he went forward with a smile and bowed to the group. “This one greets Old Taitai, Marquis, Furen, young masters and young furen. Please come in.”

“Gonggong is too polite.” Hua He Sheng recognized Yan Jin Qiu’s most trusted taijianand nodded politely at Mu Tong before going through the gates of the wang fuushered by the servants.

Along the way, all of the servants were respectful in action and speech. There was no law to pick at from their manners. It could be seen that Xian Wang Fu had good protocol. When they continued to walk in, before they reached the second door, they saw Yan Jin Qiu welcome them dressed grandly. “Zi Ling greets Father-in-law, Mother-in-law, Old Taitai.”

The old taitai held a hand for Yan Jin Qiu to stand up with benevolence on her face. She was just Hua Xi Wan’s grandmother in name—how could she accept this bow? She was not the only one. Even Hua He Sheng and Lu shi could not directly accept this bow. Any person, in front of a member of the Imperial Family, was a step lower.

Heaven, Earth, Ruler, Parents, Teachers. The ruler was in front of the parents. Xian Wang was polite to them because he was someone who acted properly. However, the Hua Family could not treat him as a normal person.

Hua He Sheng avoided Yan Jin Qiu’s bow and returned a bow. Yan Jin Qiu’s hand stopped him. The two exchanged courtesies before going through the second door together.

Usually, guests were not allowed to enter the second door. However, right now, there was only one female mistress in Xian Wang Fu, Hua Xi Wan. The Hua Family was Hua Xi Wan’s paternal family, so welcoming them past the second door was to show closeness and respect.

When the Hua Family members entered through the second door, they saw Hua Xi Wan standing by the door. Before Lu shi, Sun shi and the others bowed, Hua Xi Wan stopped them. “We are one family. We do not have to abide by the etiquette.”

“Etiquette cannot be disregarded.” How could Lu shi not know what her daughter thought? But her daughter had married into the Imperial Family, was herself a member of the Imperial Family now, and so she had to act according to the etiquette of the Imperial Family.

Just as Lu shi understood Hua Xi Wan, Hua Xi Wan naturally knew Lu shi’’s worries. She tightly gripped Lu shi’s hand. “Mother, if you persist in this, how can this daughter endure it?”

Seeing her like this, Lu shi sighed lightly. She reached to pat the back of Hua Xi Wan’s hand and sighed again. She did not persist in giving a curtsey. “Mother understands.”

Yan Jin Qiu noticed the movements between mother and daughter. He turned to glance at Hua Xi Wan with mirth in his eyes.

“The wang fu’s scenery is extraordinary.” Hua He Sheng spoke and interrupted Yan Jin Qiu’s gazing at Hua Xi Wan. He said with a smile on his face, “Compared to the wang fu, the marquis fu is almost a rundown grass hut. No wonder Little Wan said that the wang fu was beautiful when she returned to the paternal family.”

“Father-in-law is too complimentary; it is just habitable.” Yan Jin Qiu turned to look at the young people behind Hua He Sheng. He kne

w Hua Chang Bao, Hua Qing Mao, and Hua Ding Chen, but he was not familiar with the one remaining.

“This is the son of my third brother. He is called Hua Cong Pu. Wang Ye, you saw him brie ly a few days ago, and must not be familiar with him.” Hua He Sheng was a smart person and saw that Yan Jin Qiu’s attention was on Hua Cong Pu. He said a few good words for his nephew. “Cong Pu is young, and is studying at the academy. He is very hardworking and rarely has the time to play.”

Yan Jin Qiu nodded and said in praise, “This cousin-in-law is like his father.”

The third master of the Hua Family had talent but did not like being an of icial, so he was not at court. The scholars in Jing liked to call him “Graduate Hua.” From this, it could be seen the recognition that the Jing scholars had for him. Yan Jin Qiu stating that Hua Cong Pu was like his father was truly high praise.

What he said didn’t just give the Hua Family face; it also have the old taitai and Third Master Hua face. In this moment, everyone was in a good mood, and they walked with smiles into the inner compound.

Tasting tea, admiring lowers, tasting the crab. Both hosts and guests were happy and harmonious.

When they sat down, Hua Xi Wan couldn’t resist drinking a cup of light wine. While her mind was clear, a lush came onto her face. She touched her slightly red face and said to Hua Chu Yu beside her who had already married. “You cannot eat too much crab. I had the kitchen make some warmer dishes for you—taste to see if they are suited to your appetite.”

A bashful smile came onto Hua Chu Yu’s face. “With you here, how can anything not be delicious?”

Right now, who in Jing did not know that Xian Wang Fei liked delicious food? For her, Xian Wang had invited many skilled chefs into the wang

fu. Which of the other womenfolk didn’t feel admiration when they discussed this matter in private?

“I can eat whatever I want, unlike certain others”—Hua Xi Wan glanced at Hua Chu Yu’s belly with a teasing smile on her face—“who have to refrain from certain foods.”

After Hua Chu Yu married Lin Zheng De, Lin Zheng De had treated her well. He didn’t have any concubines, so husband and wife were harmonious in their relationship and an object of envy for others. Hua Chu Yu was now a little over a month pregnant. However, because of the matter of the Crown Princess, the Lin Family was low-key recently and rarely left their home to attend banquets and gatherings.

When Lu shi heard the teasing between the two cousins, she couldn’t help but look at Hua Xi Wan’s belly. Her daughter had been married to Xian Wang for over a year, but there had not been any news. Adding on what was happening right now… She pinched the corner of her eye. Her children will have their own good fortune; she was thinking too far into the future.

Yao shi did not speak from when she entered the wang fu. Seeing Hua Xi Wan close to her daughter, she sighed in relief inside. Thinking about what had happened to Hua Yi Liu, she rejoiced. It was fortunate that her daughter was not as muddle-headed at Hua Yi Liu. Otherwise, she would cry.

Thinking about this, she glanced at Hua Zhi Ming and Hua Qing Mao. Only two people had come from the second branch. Zhang shi had not come. This meant that Hua Xi Wan felt such negatively about Zhang shi that she did not want to see the other.

Thinking about the rumors in Jing, Yao shi couldn’t resist praying inside. If Third Niece really became Empress, her children would also bene it. Why would she be at odds with Lu shi? That would be too stupid.

After the lowering-admiring banquet ended, Yan Jin Qiu considerately found an opportunity for Hua Xi Wan and Lu shi to have their own time. He and the other guests went into the yard to admire the lowers.

In Hua He Sheng’s view, his son-in-law, Yan Jin Qiu, was a very reliable person. If he did not consider the other’s secret cunning and ambition, Yan Jin Qiu was a very good son-in-law.

“Wang Ye, I heard some of the criminals from the Jiang Family have been sent to the wang fu?” After admiring a pot of chrysanthemums, Hua He Sheng seemed to unintentionally speak. “I interacted some with Master Jiang in the past. If Wang Yedoes not ind it troublesome, could you give him some care?”

“Father-in-law, do not worry. I will de initely have someone take care of the only son of Master Jiang,” Yan Jin Qiu said with a smile. “There were only two servant girls who were sent to this one’s fu. Two hours ago,

there was a servant girl who was sentenced to a beating because she did not understand the rules.”

Hua He Sheng chucked. “Then I will trouble Wang Ye. That child is Duke Jiang’s only son. If I can help him stay alive, I will live up to our relationship as classmates.”

The two did not mention again the servant girl who had been punished. Hua He Sheng did not mention the person from the Jiang Family. It was as though that relationship as classmates was just a courtesy.

Father and son-in-law were having a good conversation. In the room, Hua Xi Wan and Lu shi’s conversation was about the family.

“Since you do not want a child now, then do not.” Lu shi had learned what Hua Xi Wan intended and spoke helplessly. “The situation is not stable now. If…”—she pointed at the sky—“you have to make sure that Wang Ye’s irst child is yours.”

Hua Xi Wan knew what Lu shi was worried about. She nodded.” Mother, I understand what you think. However, it really isn’t the best time now.” If she had a child now, it was akin to setting up a target for others to aim at. She would not bear to do so, and she could not afford to gamble. Also, she did not want to give birth at such a young age.

Thinking about the con lict at present, Lu shi sighed. “If…” If her daughter had not married into the Imperial Family, her daughter would

not have to consider such matters. Now, she couldn’t even have the freedom to have a child.

Lu shi did not continue but Hua Xi Wan knew her thoughts. She smiled. “Mother, there is no need to mention this. The situation is like this now, and there is no meaning in thinking about anything else. Also… he is very good to me. You do not have to worry about me.”

Lu shi forced a smile. What she could not say to her daughter was that people’s hearts changed easily. Not all males and females in the world would be able to stay with one person for a lifetime. Also, if Xian Wang had even greater fortune in the future, then what days would her daughter have with him then?

It wasn’t that there were no emperors in history who had their empress as their only woman, but they were rare. Many more emperors had countless concubines, and the women went out of favor before they lost their beauty. How could she bear for her daughter to end up like that?

“Do not worry.” Hua Xi Wan gripped her hand lightly. “Believe me, I will be good.”

Lu shi looked at her daughter’s determined eyes and felt slightly reassured.

Yao shi, Sun shi, the old taitai and Hua Chu Yu sat outside for a while. When they saw Hua Xi Wan and Lu shi walk out of the inner room, they

pretended not to see Lu shi’s slightly red eyes. With a few words, they changed the topic and no one mentioned depressing matters.

When the Hua Family left in the afternoon, Hua Xi Wan sent them off to the main gates. She only turned and went back inside after the Hua Family’s carriages disappeared at the corner of the road.

Yan Jin Qiu was by her side. Seeing her expression was low, he reached out to touch her palm. Before he could speak, he saw several taijian wearing the attire of the inner palace quickly racing towards him on horseback.

“Xian Wang Ye.” Yan Jin Qiu knew the taijian at the front. This was one of the Emperor’s attendants.

“Wang Ye, the Emperor is seriously ill and has decreed for you to enter the palace.” The taijian at the front raised an imperial decree above his head and presented it to Yan Jin Qiu.

Yan Jin Qiu looked at the taijian and then at the imperial decree in his hand. He slowly said, “Let’s go.”

He neatened his robes and looked at the nondescript attendants who were following behind him. He smiled at Hua Xi Wan. “Go into the room and rest. I will be back very soon.”

Hua Xi Wan’s brow creased. Her mouth opened, but in the end, she only nodded lightly. “All right, come back soon.”

She watched as Yan Jin Qiu rode a date-colored horse in the direction of the imperial place. She turned and whispered in Bai Xia’s year. After Bai Xia left, she said harshly, “From now, close the gates of the wang fu. Without my permission, no one can enter or leave. If anyone disobeys…”

Her gaze swept across everyone present and she said with iciness, “No mercy!”

This was the irst time the servants of the wang fu saw Wang Fei so stern. It was also the irst time they learned that the indolent wang fei had such a cold and cruel side.

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Chapter One Hundred and Five: Chaotic Night

“Wang Ye, please mind the stairs.” The taijian had a lowered head as he carefully ushered Yan Jin Qiu into the hall. Yan Jin Qiu stilled before stepping into the hall then he looked at the taijian and said, “How can this subject intrude into the Emperor’s residential palace without an announcement?”

The young taijian moved a step to the side and explained, “Wang Ye, His Majesty had decreed before this one left the palace that when Wang Ye arrived, you can enter the inner hall immediately without any announcement.”

“So that is how it is.” Yan Jin Qiu looked at the imperial guards standing sternly outside the hall and neatened his clothing. “Then please lead the way.”

When members of the Imperial House met with the Emperor, their servants did not qualify to enter the hall. The attendants that Yan Jin Qiu had taken along retreated silently to the side and watched as Yan Jin Qiu walked into the inner hall.

After Yan Jin Qiu walked through the hall gates, they watched as the vermillion doors plated with gold slowly closed with a heavy thump.

The hand of the guard closest to the door moved slightly. He shifted his calves as though he was slightly unused to this sound.

In Yi’an Marquis Fu, Hua He Sheng and his brothers were all in the inner compound. Even the old taitai had entered the marquis fu. The younger generation, like Hua Chang Bao, were also sitting in the same room with solemn expressions.

“I do not know what the situation in the palace is like, so in the next few days, I will trouble Younger Brothers to live here with me.” The worry in Hua He Sheng’s eyes was hard to disguise, but in front of his two younger brothers and the juniors, he tried his best to be steady. “I think… there will be news soon enough.”

Hua Zhi Ming and Hua Zhi Xun knew that their elder brother was worried about Hua Xi Wan. However, the situation was complex, and they did not have many subordinates who could be useful. Even if they wanted to help, they were unable to do so.

“Marquis, Miss Hong Ying requests an audience.” The steward of the marquis fuhurriedly walked in, and behind him was Hong Ying dressed in the clothing of a commoner.

“Hong Ying, what is the situation of the wang fu?” Hua Ding Chen saw Hong Ying’s attire, and his heart skipped a beat. Disregarding the presence of his elders and not waiting for Hong Ying to bow, he asked, “Does Meimei have trustworthy people around her?”

Hong Ying curtsied to the group in the room before saying, “Masters, Mistresses, Young Masters, do not worry. Wang Fei is ine. Wang Ye was just summoned into the palace. Right now, Wang Fei is in charge of the entire wang fu.”

Hearing this, Hua Ding Chen was reassured. However, when he thought of the chaotic situation of the imperial palace, and how Yan Jin Qiu had been summoned to the palace, he couldn’t help but frown. He turned and looked at his father and older brother who also had grave expressions. He did not dare to speak, in fear he would interrupt their thoughts.

Hua He Sheng heard something unusual from Hong Ying’s words. He lowered his voice and said, ”Wang Ye entered the palace?”

Hong Ying nodded. “Wang Fe was worried about the marquis fu and has sent this servant to visit. Before leaving, Wang Fei said for everyone to not panic, and not see guests.”

“Guests…”

“Anyone not of the Hua Family is a guest.” Hong Ying looked around the room and her gaze landed on Hua Zhi Ming. “Second

Master, is Second Taitai present?”

Hua Zhi Ming replied, “She is in the inner yard right now.”

“The situation outside is chaotic. Wang Fei said it is best if Second Taitai does not go outside.” Hong Ying’s voice was clear, but her words caused Hua Zhi Ming to lush. At the side, Hua Qing Mao seemed to detect something, but he could only lower his head and pretend ignorance.

“Second Taitai is ill and bedridden. She cannot go anywhere.” Hua Zhi Ming’s complexion was slightly ashen. “I will send servants to take good care of her.”

“Then Second Taitai needs to have a good recovery.” Hong Ying stopped there. She did not desire to put Hua Zhi Ming on the spot even more. After she said this, she allowed the servants of the marquis fu to guide her to a room to rest.

After Hong Ying left, Hua He Sheng spoke. “The sky is about to change today. Our marquis fu is weak, so let’s just wait for the sky to clear.”

Of the three brothers, Hua He Sheng was the most worried. He waved his hand at the two younger brothers. “Go and rest.”

Just as he said this, a manservant entered with a letter in his hand.

“Master, someone sent you a letter.”

Hua He Sheng took the letter. When he saw the insignia on the letter, his expression changed slightly.

“Father?” Hua Chang Bao detected that Hua He Sheng’s mood wasn’t right and couldn’t help but ask, “Is there a problem with the letter?”

Hua He Sheng silently shook his head. “You can leave.”

Hua Chang Bao looked at the unopened letter in his father’s hand. He wanted to ask, but looking at his father’s expression, he could only leave silently with the other people.

The prestigious families and the nobility in Jing were all unable to sit still today. They wanted to go to Xian Wang Fu to get information but found that the gates of Xian Wang Fu were tightly closed. They were refusing guests. Even Wang Fei’s paternal family was also the same, as though they were afraid people were going to eat them.

They did not want to give up, but no one dared to break relations. They only cursed a few times inside. Who could guarantee that, if they offended Wang Fei and her paternal family today, revenge would not be exacted in the future?

“Wang Fei, the visitors have all been sent away by the stewards.” Bai Xia walked into the room. She saw that Hua Xi Wan had changed out of her

grand palace robe into a light short dress. She couldn’t help but say, “Wang Fei, do not worry. Nothing will happen.”

Hua Xi Wan gazed in the direction of the imperial palace. She smiled faintly and said, “I know.”

Bai Xia’s lips moved, but she did not speak any more words of comfort. She put a new cup of hot tea out for Hua Xi Wan. “Just now, this servant had them make a bowl of black chicken pearl soup. Do you want a taste?”

Hua Xi Wan didn’t have an appetite. However, when she saw Hong Ying and Zi Shan looking with worry at her, she could only nod and say, “I will taste it.”

“Then this servant will bring it to you now.” Bai Xia sighed in relief and quickly left.

After Bai Xia left, Hua Xi Wan walked next to the window. She looked at the slightly yellowed trees outside the window and sighed lightly. There was something wrong about the young taijian who had come with the imperial decree today. She had seen it, and Yan Jin Qiu would de initely have seen it. However, he still went along and entered the imperial palace. This proved that Yan Jin Qiu had planned for this already.

But there was no plan in the world that would not have a law. How could she not worry?

If he failed, all of Xian Wang Fu would not end well. Perhaps, even her paternal family would be affected.

After she used a bowl of black chicken pearl soup, there was still no news from the palace. Hua Xi Wan’s expression became even more solemn. When the sky turned black, she heard shouts and arguing from outside.

Her expression changed slightly. She stood and took down the sword hanging on the wall, and threw her adornments such as bracelets and charms to the side. Then she said to her personal servant girls, “Go out to see.”

At the front, Bai Xia irst gripped a short sword in her hand and strode after Hua Xi Wan.

Coming out of the inner yard, Hua Xi Wan saw that while the servants of the wang fu had nervous expressions, they were not panicked. She glanced at the wang fuguard captain kneeling in front of her. “What is the situation outside?”

“Wang Fei, Sheng Junwang’s people have surrounded the fu of many prestigious and noble families.” The captain’s tone was grave. “There is a troop of soldiers shouting outside our wang fu’s gates.”

Hua Xi Wan listened with focused attention and could hear the low cursing and mockery from the soldiers outside.

“The women are hiding inside and don’t dare to come out.”

“I heard that this Xian Wang Fei is really beautiful. I wonder if us brothers can…”

The soldiers immediately roared in laughter. The perverted laughed passed into the wang fu and caused the members of the wang fu to lush with anger. Some who were more iery wanted to charge out to ight against the soldiers.

Hua Xi Wan sneered and then said, “Have someone with a good throat come!”

The soldiers outside Xian Wang Fu were enjoying their cursing when they suddenly heard a loud voice at the gates.

“I was wondering what animals were barking outside the gates. So it is a group of treasonous rebels. It would be all right if they were gentleman, but people of rough language like this are not ashamed to be rebels? If they succeed in the future, would the people of Jing have good lives?”

The soldiers who were laughing stopped and looked at each other. They had not understood what this meant yet.

The expression of the leader was slightly ugly. He had originally thought that Xian Wang Fei was a weak woman who was spoiled by Xian Wang. She de initely would be too embarrassed to come out after being mocked by his soldiers. Who knew that she wasn’t afraid and wanted to sway the minds of the people.

Before the rebels spoke, the loud voice behind the gates started again. “A group of rabble dares to dream delusively of shaking the throne. Our wang fei says that Xian Wang Fu is loyal to the Emperor, and to the entire dynasty. Rebels, leave quickly and do not dirty the lands of our Xian Wang Fu.”

“Motherf****, this woman really has a poisonous mouth. When I cleave open the gates of her fu, let’s see how she can posture.” One of the men among the rebels found the words displeasing and moved to charge.

“Stop,” the leader said harshly. “Do not act rashly.”

He had originally thought that it would be easy to take down Xian Wang Fu which only had a wang fei left. However, he was hesitant now that he saw the other’s fearless attitude. Was the other purposefully making them angry to enter a trap?

“Let’s wait.” He looked in the direction of the imperial palace. “Surround Xian Wang Fu irst. If the matter succeeds, then this little Xian Wang Fu is nothing to fear.”

It would be better to go steadier. Since Xian Wang was already trapped in the imperial palace, even if Xian Wang Fei had great skills, it would be useless when Junwang Ye ascended the throne.

Hua Xi Wan heard the rebels outside were slightly more docile and looked at the servants in the surroundings. She then said gravely, “Today is the time when our Xian Wang Fu is at the brink of life and death. No one is allowed to move by themselves. Anyone suspicious will be beaten to death.” She unsheathed the sword in her hand and thrust it deeply into the lowerbed beside her. “Tonight, I will stand guard here.”

Bai Xia and the others stood silently behind Hua Xi Wan and looked with bright eyes at the lames illing the whole sky outside.

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Chapter One Hundred and Six: The Dust Has Settled

The period of the fourth night watch, between one and three in the morning, was when people were at their most tired. However, none in Xian Wang Fu dared to sleep. Regardless of their gender, they all held blades or sticks as they looked nervously at the gate of the wang fu, afraid that the rebels outside would charge in.

“Wang Fei, a servant girl wanted to escape from the back door, but we caught her.” Two servant women grabbed a female who was dressed like a servant girl. Their faces were full of anger and hate. At such an important time, this person wanted to run away. If the rebels took the opportunity to enter the wang fu, what to do then?

Bai Xia looked at the person being held by the servant women and said in a small voice to Hua Xi Wan, “Wang Fei, it is Yuan Shu Yi.”

“Take her away.” Hua Xi Wan was slightly irritated. She didn’t care what Yuan Shu Yi had planned, and at this time, she was not in the mood to talk to the other. “Have someone keep a watch on her and not let her walk around.”

She looked at the moon in the sky. She could feel that the rebels outside the wang fu were losing their patience. Her heart tightened slightly. She did not know what Yan Jin Qiu had arranged before he entered the palace. However, rather than putting her hopes on other people, it was better to be prepared herself.

“Archers, prepare!” She raised her hand. “Throwers, to your positions.”

The rebels outside Xian Wang Fu had become impatient a long time ago. If it wasn’t for the leader being hesitant, they would not have waited for so long. Now, they inally could not wait any longer. A team captain went forward and said, “Commander, this soldier is willing to lead the troops.”

The rebel commander looked at Xian Wang Fu which had been quiet for a long time and inally nodded.

Just after he nodded, sound rended the air. The team captain kneeling in front of his horse suddenly fell down. There was a shiny arrow stuck in his chest.

Before the rebel commander could react, he found countless laming arrows shoot out of Xian Wang Fu. Even more frightening were the sparking jars. When these jars landed, ire shot out and could not be extinguished.

Was it wine that was burning?

At this time, the rebel commander did not have the presence of mind to think about what kind of wine could make ire like this. He watched as

his subordinates panicked because of the ire and moved out of their ranks, and his heart jumped.

How many archers were in Xian Wang Fu?

While a qinwang fu could possess some weapons according to its status, this was still limited. But had Xian Wang Fu abided by the rules?

When he thought of how his master was only a junwang but had hidden some good things in secret, he felt even more uncon ident. This Xian Wang Fu would not be an easy one to take down.

Just as he was hesitating, he found a personal guard troop suddenly come out of the alley and starting to kill people. They were shouting loudly about killing rebels and protecting the Emperor. While they were not many in number, it caused his subordinates who had already started to panic to become even more disorganized.

This was…

These were the personal guards of Ning Wang? Wasn’t Ning Wang usually a cunning and sel ish person? How come he dared to stand out at this time?

The rebel commander was still unable to think through this matter when he saw another troop appear. This time, it was the personal guards from Xu Wang Fu.

Then behind them was a group of people dressed as manservants. The leader of the group was the second young

master of Yi’an Marquis Fu, Hua Ding Chen.

“Rebels, we will not allow you to threaten the Emperor. You have committed such great crimes—put down your weapons and comply with arrest!” Hua Ding Chen got off his horse, one hand holding a long spear. “If you put down your weapons, I am willing to ask for mercy from the Emperor.”

The rebel commander was astonished. Xu Wang Fu, Ning Wang Fu, Yi’an Marquis Fu—these people all risked danger by protecting Xian Wang Fu. Leaving aside the marriage relationship between Yi’an Marquis Fu and Xian Wang Fu, when did Xu Wang and Ning Wang get on Xian Wang’s side?

What about the other troops that Wang Ye had stationed in Jing? How come they had not stopped these people? Was it… He had a bad feeling. Wang Ye had planned a long time for this day, but why was the situation developing like this?

In the wang fu, Hua Xi Wan listened to the guard captain report what was happening outside. She was slightly surprised. “You say that my second brother has also come?” She had sent Hong Ying before to tell the marquis fu how dangerous it was. With her father’s personality, he should not allow Second Brother to enter such danger. Had something happened?

She had heard that Xu Wang and Ning Wang had been summoned into the palace. Now the personal guards of these two wang fu had appeared. Had this been prearranged?

The situation was not clear. Hua Xi Wan did not overthink it. She said gravely, “Wait and see.”

While Xu Wang and Ning Wang’s people seemed to be helping Xian Wang Fu, who knew if they were truly helping or just acting? At this time, she could not consider whether or not if this was impolite.

Outside, the rebels had been anxious to start with. When they saw themselves surrounded, and thinking of their families, a great part of their energy dissipated. How much resolve did they have left to ight with their lives?

Emotions would spread. Once one rebel hesitated, it would affect another person. After being surrounded by the guards of the wang fu and marquis fu, they lost their ighting spirit. They only wanted to stay alive and not have this affect their families.

They were not stupid. When they saw this situation, they knew who these people were supporting. If these nobles dared to come out at this time, it meant only one thing—that there were bene its to helping Xian Wang Fu.

They were all wang ye—what bene it would helping Xian Wang give them?

The meaning did not have to be stated. Their own master probably was going to be defeated.

“Clang!”

The heavy mourning bell rang out from the imperial palace. Everyone stared blankly and then knelt down. Even the rebels knelt after a moment of hesitation. By doing this, it meant that they had surrendered.

The bell rang out nine times. All of Jing became grave.

“Wang Fei…” Bai Xia looked hesitantly at Hua Xi Wan and was worried.

The old emperor was dead—then who was the new emperor?

Hua Xi Wan looked in the direction of the imperial palace and took a deep breath. “Open the middle gates of the wang fu, put up white banners, take down anything that has color.”

“But outside…”

“Open.” Hua Xi Wan shook her head. Since the palace dared to ring the bell, it meant that everything had settled. Right now, it made no difference if Xian Wang Fuopened its gates or not.

In the Emperor’s residential hall, Yan Bo Yi was pushed to the ground by imperial guards. However, his eyes still glared hatefully at Yan Jin Qiu, as though he wanted to take a bite of him and drink his blood.

The other people in the hall seemed to not see him and knelt down in Yan Jin Qiu’s direction. They performed the three kneels and nine kowtows. “Long Live the Emperor, Long Live The Emperor.”

“Emperor, the country cannot go a day without a monarch. Emperor, please succeed to the throne immediately.” Xu Wang reported as he knelt, “Many people in Jing have been scared by the rebels. Only your immediate ascension to the throne can reassure the hearts of the people.”

Yan Jin Qiu said with a sorrowful expression, “The Emperor has just passed away. I do not have the ability to govern and am grieving deeply. I cannot take such a responsibility.”

“How can Emperor be so humble? You’ve had outstanding literary talent since childhood, was raised in the imperial palace, and the previous emperor thought highly of you. The previous emperor’s last wish was for you to ascend the throne, and this is also the wish of the people,” Ning Wang said sincerely. “This subject thinks that Emperor, you should take the throne irst, and then have the ceremony on another day. What do you think?”

People couldn’t help but look at Ning Wang. He had said everything good already—what could they still say? While they disdained Ning Wang’s double dealing and back stabbing, everyone present voiced their agreement with Ning Wang. Emperor, you ascension is the wish of all, the people need you, the of icials trust you, the future of the country needs you even more, ascend the throne.

They urged like this three times, and Yan Jin Qiu refused three times. In the end, only when the sun had risen did Yan Jin Qiu agree with red eyes. The of icials sighed in relief. This play was inally inished.

Yan Bo Yi looked coldly at this group acting. Yan Jin Qiu was still like this. He bene ited, but he also wanted the good reputation. It was as though the other people were begging him. It was disgusting to see him pretend like this.

After the play was inished, people inally started to discuss the rebel Yan Bo Yi. However, Yan Bo Yi was a member of the Imperial Family, so the of icials could not speak. The members of the Imperial Family also

did not dare to speak. They could only observe the expression of the new emperor to guess the thoughts of the new emperor.

Yan Jin Qiu knew what these people were thinking and did not show anything on his face. He looked at Yan Bo Yi kneeling in front of him and said in a deep voice, “Tang brother, I hadn’t thought that you would come to this step.”

Hearing this, Yan Bo Yi gave a bark of laughter. “Is there anything you do not think of and do not scheme for?”

Yan Jin Qiu was not angry at being challenged like this. He looked at Yan Bo Yi with a calm expression, as if he was looking at a foolish child. “The situation is like this—does Tang Brother not have any regret? You took soldiers to seize the palace when the previous emperor was seriously ill. You caused the previous emperor to die from anger. Do you have any regrets about committing such a serious crime?”

“I only regret not being as calculating as you, and being captured.” Yan Bo Yi knew that he had no avenue of life. Therefore, he did not plan to lower himself to live. “You want to scheme, do it. I don’t want to see you acting.”

Yan Jin Qiu heard this and his brows moved slightly. He walked in front of Yan Bo Yi and looked down at him. He slowly said, “How can Tang Brother misunderstand me so?” Finishing, he did not wait for Yan Bo Yi to speak and said loudly, “Sheng Junwang was misled by servants, and committed a great crime that cannot be pardoned. But considering his

past reputation, zhen will spare him from the sentence of death, take his surname Yan, and give him the ‘punishment of the character.’ He will be imprisoned for life in the Resting Building.”

The Resting Building was the place to jail the members of the Imperial Family who had committed serious crimes. It had been many years since someone had lived there. In many people’s minds, Yan Jin Qiu was merciful to send Yan Bo Yi there.

“I heard that Tang Brother has a pregnant concubine. Tang Brother, you need to take care of your health and see your child grow up.” Yan Jin Qiu said this in a gentle voice to Yan Bo Yi before having the servants take him away.

Ning Wang looked at Yan Bo Yi being dragged out without resisting and sighed inside. The new emperor appeared to be benevolent, but he was actually a vicious person who killed without spilling blood. He clearly hated Yan Bo Yi but did not take the other’s life. He wanted Yan Bo Yi to live a life worse than death, and live it willingly.

The ‘punishment of the character was to tattoo the character “prisoner” on the forehead of the sentenced person, and to also take their surname before imprisoning them in a building that no one had lived in for a long time. This was not being benevolent. This was cutting people with a dull knife. The person could not die but would not live well.

But when did the new emperor start to have such a great grudge against Yan Bo Yi?

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Chapter One Hundred and Seven: Eight Treasures Trousseau

In the dark room, Yan Bo Yi sat expressionlessly at the table and looked coldly at Yan Jin Qiu who was sitting on the other side. “Your Majesty the Emperor, on the irst day after seizing power, has not forgotten to come laugh at me?” His forehead was burning in pain. Two hours ago, a “prisoner” character had been added there.

“Zhen has decreed that your concubines who do not have children can leave as they wish,” Yan Jin Qiu said slowly. “They are now packing up. Do you want to go bid farewell to them?”

“They are just people who are sel ish and have no loyalty—what is there to say?” Yan Jin Qiu sneered.” What’s the use of women except for having children?”

Yan Jin Qiu’s brow creased slightly. When he thought that it had been two days since he had seen Hua Xi Wan, he didn’t have any more interest in looking at Yan Bo Yi. “Your outcome really cannot be blamed on others.” He stood and headed outside, unwilling to look at Yan Bo Yi one last time.

“Where are you better than me? You are someone who schemed against your own brother-in-law—you do not qualify to criticize others.” Yan Bo Yi snorted. “And that wang fei of yours—she is enchanted by your warmth. She doesn’t know how disgusting you are under that skin of yours.”

Hearing this, Yan Jin Qiu turned back to glance at him. He smiled noncommittally and then left without a look back.

Watching as the gates slowly closed in front of him, the room becoming dark, Yan Bo Yi raised a hand to lightly touch his forehead and then hatefully smashed the rough porcelain tea set on the table.

The gates to Xian Wang Fu were wide open. Outside, the imperial guard was clearing the way. They splashed clean water on the streets. The imperial procession was coming, and everyone else needed to move out of the way.

They had made such a fuss because the new emperor wanted to come himself to meet the empress and take her into the palace. Some older of icials had objected to this, but the new emperor had said in front of the entire court, “Hua shi is my wife, and we will not be separated. Among the people, husband and wife love and support each other. Zhen is the son of Heaven but is the same as any other person, and only wishes to stay with my wife until we grow old.”

All the of icials were speechless. What could they say? The Emperor himself was willing, so could they, the of icials, have the Emperor disrespect the Empress and favor concubines? It would not look good to say that. Also, the new emperor had just ascended the throne—who was willing to disagree with him?

Fine, you, the grand emperor, are willing to bow to your woman; they would not meddle in these matters and would just watch.

“Niangniang, the Emperor has personally come to take you to the palace.” Bai Xia who was usually composed had a thread of surprise on her face. She walked into the room and looked at the grandly dressed Hua Xi Wan. She carefully touched the phoenix hairpin in Hua Xi Wan’s hair. “They will reach the second door about now.”

Hua Xi Wan also hadn’t expected that Yan Jin Qiu would come. After a slight pause, she slowly smiled. Holding Bai Xia’s hand, she stood up unhurriedly. “Let’s go.”

When someone has already walked ninety-nine steps, she was not so lazy that she wasn’t even willing to walk that one remaining step. A person needed to be careful, but they also needed to have enough bravery.

“Emperor?” Mu Tong looked in puzzlement at the Emperor. He did not understand why the Emperor got off the dragon carriage after reaching the seco

nd door. However, the moment when he spoke, he knew he had made a mistake and hurriedly closed his mouth. He bowed and then took a step back. The other people saw that Chief Steward Mu who had served the Emperor for so many years did not dare to speak, and all of them remained silent. They followed behind the Emperor and watched as he walked towards the inner compound.

When he irst got off the carriage, Yan Jin Qiu’s steps were steady and measured, but when he was about to cross through the door to the inner compound, his strides grew longer. Maybe other people did not detect it, but Mu Tong saw the other’s expression clearly.

He suddenly raised his head and saw the Empress standing by the inner door. He then understood the reason why the Emperor had lost his usual composure and became slightly rushed.

The woman standing by the door was just eighteen, and her appearance was soul-stealing, but what was most attractive was that warm smile on her face. That warm smile was enough for any man who saw it to lose his mind.

Yan Jin Qiu hadn’t expected that Hua Xi Wan would be willing to wait by the door for him. Seeing the faint smile on her lips, he was slightly dazed. Then an indescribable feeling of joy rose inside him.

Three steps merging into two, he went forward and grabbed Hua Xi Wan’s hands to stop her from curtseying. Yan Jin Qiu stared at her and said, “I have come to take you to the palace.”

Hua Xi Wan raised her head and smiled faintly as she looked into his eyes.

Their gazes met. They clearly didn’t say anything, but they did not need to.

“Let’s go.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at her hand that was in Yan Jin Qiu’s and allowed him to pull her to the gates of the wang fu.

The distance from the inner door of the wang fu to the outer gates was not small, but Yan Jin Qiu did not sit on the carriage as he held Hua Xi Wan’s hand. The two of them slowly passed through the corridors on the lotus pond, the corridors carved with exquisite patterns, through the doors, like a pair of lovers idly strolling and not the Emperor and Empress.

The two of them got closer and closer to the gates. Yan Jin Qiu looked at the open wang fu gates. He stopped walking and said, “I once said that I will never let anyone slight you again. From today onward, you don’t need to bow to anyone.”

Hua Xi Wan looked at her hand held in his and put her other hand on the back of Yan Jin Qiu’s hand. “I remember your words.”

Looking at her exquisite brow, Yan Jin Qiu smiled and said, “It doesn’t matter if you remember or not. I will remember for you.” Finishing, he did not wait for Hua Xi Wan to speak and pulled her out through the

gates. Then, under the gazes of everyone, he led Hua Xi Wan onto his carriage.

The rites of icials who had come along blinked, but no one stepped out to say that it was not correct for the two to share a carriage.

Yesterday, the Ministry of Works, the Ministry of Rites, and the Department of Internal Affairs had worked through the night to create this dragon and phoenix carriage. This was all because the Emperor had said that husband and wife were yin and yang, and when they were out, their status should not be different. The Emperor was the dragon, and the Empress was the phoenix. In the future, when he and the Empress were out, it was enough for the two of them to ride one carriage.

Since the Emperor had no objection to sitting on the same carriage as the Empress, they, the subjects, should not say anything more. However, since it was not appropriate for the Empress to sit on the dragon carriage yet the Emperor was determined to sit with the Empress, they could only think of a solution.

Since the Emperor said that empress and emperor should be one, then they would make a dragon and phoenix carriage. It both satis ied the love between the Emperor and Empress, and did not break etiquette. This should be all right.

The Emperor and Empress were deeply in love, the Empress was born from a prestigious family, her paternal and maternal family were all

loyal subjects. They were not worried about a demoness that would bring calamity to the country. Everyone was satis ied with this. The only shortcoming was that the Emperor and Empress were young, had not been married for two years, and did not have a child.

But the two were still young. A child most likely would not be a major problem.

Five days later, Yan Jin Qiu formally ascended the throne and changed the era name to Shengkun. After his twenty-seven days of intensive mourning were over, other than making some decrees that followed the normal tradition, he gave a verbal decree that shocked the court.

“Zhen’s inner palace will be just Hua shi.”

Many of icials praised the Emperor for his love, but sighed inside. The Emperor was still too young. Later, he would probably regret and be humiliated by this verbal decree from today.

Even as beautiful as Empress Hua was, there would be a day when the beauty would grow old. How many men in the world did not desire beauty? There were many young couples in love, but when they reached middle age, the past love became dull silence. The love would become the ignorance of youth, oaths would become an impulsive action, and then what would he do in the future?

Three days later, Emperor Shengkun held a great crowning ceremony for Empress Hua. Empress Hua didn’t just receive the bows of the court of icials and the noblewomen; he personally put the golden token, golden seal and golden book that represented the status of the empress into Empress Hua’s hands.

“Starting from today, you and I will be together living in this deep palace. Zhen will not fail you.” Yan Jin Qiu stood on the tall jade stairs and looked down at the of icials who were kneeling. He turned and said to Hua Xi Wan beside him, “I know that you do not like living in the Imperial House, but in this life, you will not be able to easily leave this place. This is my fault.”

“Didn’t you once say that we are a match made in heaven?” Hua Xi Wan smiled faintly. “In the beginning, it was not you who forced me, nor did I cry and beg to marry you. You cannot give me a free and indolent life, but you have tried your best so that I do not have to worry much. You have done enough.”

She raised her head to look at the cloudless sky and smiled freely. “Maybe it was fated by Heaven that I encountered you and you encountered me. This is fate.”

She did not believe promises or oaths, but she believed in herself.

There would be an end to even the most craggy road. Before the last moment, no one knew what beauty and misfortune one would encounter in life.

She might not believe in the oaths of men, but she would not deny the other’s true heart because of her suspicious nature.

It was just a lifetime. She dared to gamble, and she could afford to.

“Before a daughter of the Lu Family marries, her mother will personally give her a trousseau. There will be eight hair ornaments in the box. Therefore, the daughters of the Lu Family call it the Eight Treasures Trousseau.”

Hua Xi Wan took out an exquisite sandalwood box from the tray and put it in Yan Jin Qiu’s hand.

“Gold and silver, eight treasures, four each for male and female, good wishes for the two to hold hands through good and bad, loving each other and never parting.”

Yan Jin Qiu opened the sandalwood box. Inside was a love-knot jade pendant, a signet ring carved with the character “good fortune,” a lucky cloud hairpin, and an exquisite jade coronet.

He suddenly raised his head to look at Hua Xi Wan. Her eyes were glowing, and her smile was blossoming.

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世⼦ shizi: heir son, referring to the heir apparent to a noble title 本宫 ben gong: lit. “this palace”; illeism for members of the Imperial Family

Chapter One Hundred and Eight: Epilogue

The spring of the third year of Shengkun was a good season when the lowers bloomed. Empress Hua invited the women of the Imperial Family and the irst-rank titled ladies to the imperial gardens. Those who received an invitation were overjoyed and treated it seriously.

After the new emperor had ascended the throne, he suddenly changed from his previous gentle personality. He reorganized the court in a storm. If the new emperor’s foundations had been weak after his ascension, he might have been wary, but there were many supporters of the new emperor who had controlled the entire court. So in less than two years, those who needed to be sorted out were sorted out. The entire court revered and feared the new emperor even more.

Other than Emperor Shengkun being praised by the people for his governance, his love life was also something that everyone was extremely interested in. Why?

Because the new emperor had been on the throne for three years, but other than Empress Hua, he really did not have any other woman. He didn’t even have a female of icial whom he slept with. It really was rare to have this kind of man.

Many men in the world, after they came to power, would be greedy for women. While Empress Hua was beautiful, one would get tired after seeing her for a long time. Could the Emperor control his lower half?

No one had reached a conclusion before Empress Hua decided to hold a banquet. Everyone in Jing knew that Empress Hua had a lazy personality, and did not like to worry about other matters. This was something that the of icials were very satis ied with. The Emperor favoured Empress Hua so much—if Empress Hua meddled in the government, then it would be a great calamity.

But this was a lazy person, so everyone was happy. Empress Hua was favoured, and the status of her paternal family also rose. Yi’an Marquis was ennobled as a country duke, his eldest son the heir to the dukedom, his second son a marquis. However, this duke was a perceptive person. After helping the new emperor control the court, he retired from his position at court and did not change his mind no matter how the new emperor tried to persuade him. In the end, he went back to his home to relax, with the titles of duke and Grand Tutor of the crown prince.

Both of his sons were still young, and their positions in court were not low or high. They were also loyal to the Emperor and humble in conduct, so no one could say that the Empress’ paternal family bullied people using their power. Compared to the paternal family of the previous emperor’s demoted empress, they were in initely better.

When people thought about it this way, they did not ind it strange that the Emperor favoured the Empress so. Everything in this world has its

reason.

The imperial garden was illed with fragrant clothing and the shadows of hair. Taijian and palace maids passed through the igures with jars and cups. It was very busy.

“Princess, we have arrived.”

Hearing the soft reminder of her personal servant girl, Princess Rui He suddenly refocused. She saw that there were already many women in the imperial garden. She silently picked a spot where to sit and did not try to converse with anyone else.

Last winter, foreigners had tried to invade. Some of icials had suggested a marriage alliance, intending for her, the princess, to marry the king of the foreigners, a man almost seventy years old. She had hidden in fear in her princess fu. However, she had been lamboyant in her actions in the past, and no one was close to her. With her father and brother both gone, and her maternal family members demoted to commoners, she could not even ind one person to stand and speak on her behalf.

She liked handsome men, but she also loved her children. If she married into a foreign country, her two children would stay in Jing, but what days would they have?

Just as she was feeling hopeless and terri ied, she heard that Yan Jin Qiu had refused this suggestion of marriage in front of the entire court.

“My great dynasty will rather have our men die in battle than bow their spines. The foreigners are ambitious—can sacri icing an innocent woman’s life trade for the peace of my dynasty?”

She had always felt that Yan Jin Qiu was an insincere person, but when she heard that he had said such words, she felt slightly dazed. She couldn’t help but think, if her younger brother had not died and had become the emperor, would he say such a thing at this time?

Maybe… for his peace, she, the sister, would soon be stepping onto the road to marriage for peace.

It was laughable that she had lived as she wished for the irst part of her life, but the rest of her life was protected by a person whom she had schemed against.

People could not go against the will of heaven. Scheming was just a joke. Later, when she heard the people of Jing’s praises of Yan Jin Qiu, and those of the prestigious families that had submitted to Yan Jin Qiu, she slowly understood. Yan Jin Qiu really was the person most suited to the throne.

Her brother and Sheng Junwang did not have the breadth of mind, the vision, and the talent that he did. She was still a grand princess. She had peaceful days. Her son had been titled shizi. This was good.

Everyone knew that the Holy One had an older sister, but the Holy One never mentioned his older sister. The Empress had never summoned her sister-in-law. Princess Rui He was still titled Grand Princess. This was clearly telling the world that the Emperor did not like his older sister.

Naturally, no one would be so unperceptive as to mention one in disfavour with the Emperor. So no one expressed their curiosity or surprise that there was no trace of the Emperor’s sister at the banquet.

Princess Rui He had just raised her teacup to take a sip when she heard the sound of the taijian clapping in the corner. She hurriedly put down the teacup, neatened her dress, and then stood with everyone else around her.

Hua Xi Wan was twenty now, but in Princess Rui He’s view, this empress who had already given birth to an imperial son had not changed much from when she had married Yan Jin Qiu. Even the most complex and grand clothing would feel perfectly suited when she wore it, and could not overwhelm her.

After kneeling, Princess Rui He sat down on her spot. She silently looked at the womenfolk who were carefully fawning over the Empress. The lips of her mouth rose slightly, but her eyes were indifferent.

The atmosphere of the banquet was lively, and the food that was presented had been made with great care to have both taste and appearance. It should be said that ever since Emperor Shengkun

ascended the throne, the skills of the imperial chefs had grown even better, and had even more styles. The imperial palace was really the place where the most delicious food was found.

The nobles all knew that the Empress had a fondness for good food. They also knew that Empress Shengkun was willing to go along with the empress’ hobby. These two were both willing, so no one could say this was bad. But… many females admired and envied Empress Hua’s good fortune in secret.

Hua Xi Wan rinsed her mouth, wiped her face, and washed her hands, helped by the palace maids, before she smiled at the womenfolk seated around her. “Now that we are sated… The weather is good—if you do not disdain it, how about you accompany ben gong in walking around the garden?”

Everyone said it was their honor, and interestedly followed behind the Empress. They complimented all the lora in the imperial garden and even wanted to praise the weeds in the cracks.

They all knew that the Empress might not truly pay attention to the praises, but they had to be complimentary, had to be respectful. Everyone knew the position the Empress held in the Emperor’s heart. Who dared to displease the Empress?

They had heard that yesterday, a daring palace maid wanted to get imperial favour but enraged the Emperor. No one knew what happened

in the end, but some people who had other thoughts gave up now and didn’t dare to think more.

Princess Rui He was slightly surprised that the Empress suddenly hosted a banquet. Empress Hua never liked to host banquets like this. If the other didn’t have a goal in hosting this lower-admiring banquet, she would not believe it.

“Ben gong had them plant these lowers here a few days ago.” Hua Xi Wan’s voice was forever soft. “Ben gong likes these beautiful things the most.” Finishing, she suddenly saw a lower stem that was reaching the path. She couldn’t help but frown. “How come this lower has grown here? Come, cut this.”

Then the women saw some taijian come with scissors to cut the entire plant. They looked at the lower that had fallen to the ground with thoughtful expressions.

“Such a pity.” Hua Xi Wan glanced at the branch on the ground and then turned to look at the womenfolk. “Let’s continue.”

Princess Rui He looked at the lower that was completely destroyed by everyone’s footsteps and slowly exhaled.

Even the most beautiful thing, if it was disobedient, would not be kept.

Just like when the new emperor ascended the throne, and that young Empress Dowager Zhang had dared to act like a mother-in-law in front of Empress Hua. Within a hundred days, she had died from illness.

Sometimes, a person’s greed was enough to consume them.

The Empress did not say anything, but anyone smart should have understood that the Empress did not have a soft personality. She just did not like to manage these matters. If they touched her bottom line, her actions would be enough to give them an unforgettable lesson.

This was also very good.

After they had admired lowers for a time, Princess Rui He heard again the sound of clapping from up front. She raised her head slightly and saw the Emperor’s carriage coming this way. The women saw this, bowed their heads and moved back, not looking directly at the dragon carriage.

However, the Emperor’s carriage stopped when it was about ten paces away from them. The Emperor clearly did not plan on coming forward due to the women present.

A taijian quickly came up to bow to Empress Hua. It was Chief Steward Mu, whom even those in favour with the Emperor had to treat respectfully.

It was unknown what Chief Steward Mu said. The Empress smiled and walked towards the Emperor’s carriage.

When the Empress stepped onto the stool, an arm that was covered in a dark dragon-patterned sleeve reached out of the carriage. The Empress handed her hand to the other and was pulled into the imperial carriage.

When Princess Rui He saw this, she suddenly smiled. She turned to look at the female of icial who was preparing to see her out of the palace. She lowered her head slightly and then left this sumptuous palace without another look back.

Some people were fated to become those who were to be admired and envied. While she could not become a main characters of legend, at least she was fortunate enough to see a legendary love.

She was born in nobility and wealth, the remaining of her life would be wealthy, and she had no regrets.

Thousands of years later, countless dramas and novels about Emperor Shengkun and Empress Shengde were created. However, some emphasized Emperor Shengkun’s extraordinary qualities, some emphasized Empress Shengde’s beauty which caused countless men to fall in love. It caused Empress Shengkun to never have a concubine and only hold her his entire life.

Some said that Empress Shengde was a successful woman, some said that Emperor Shengkun was a successful emperor. But the only thing they could not deny was that the two of them were an emperor and empress who had been in love their entire life.

The history books recorded how Empress Shengkun had said in front of the court that he would be together with the Empress forever. He had managed to do it.

In the forty- ifth year of Emperor Shengkun’s rule, when he was sixtyeight, he abdicated to the crown prince to become an idle emeritus emperor. He and Empress Shengde were in love their entire life and had three sons and a daughter. He recruited those talented, conquered foreigners, changed the way of farming, and developed a navy. This caused all the surrounding countries to fear and respect his country, and he was called a great and wise ruler by the historians. At least, every year during the high school examinations, this Emperor Shengkun would come out to remind people of his existence and torment high school students year after year.

Some even said in forum posts that this Emperor Shengkun was a timetraveler. Otherwise, how was he so capable and even had the mindset to be monogamous?

However, no one thought seriously of this explanation. Even the poster was just joking.

Time-travel?

Who would believe that!

Translator Ramblings: The end!

Thank you, Adnana and Vivie, for helping me edit this, correcting mistakes, and trying to make sense of what I meant from my mishmashing of cliched but incorrect phrasing and illogical sentence structure, as well as remaining patient as I repeat the same mistakes over and over. I am especially grateful to Adnana for keeping an updated glossary, adding de initions and notes for every chapter as necessary, and her explanations when correcting my grammar mistakes. Unfortunately, she did not see any improvement over this entire time as I had mostly inished translating before she came in.

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