Chapter 6 Part 1: Marriage
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Lin Wei Xi rode on a carriage again after a long time, did not know how long the bumps had been going on, and the noise outside of the carriage became more and more noisy. Lin Wei Xi guessed that they might have entered the city.
Sure enough, the guard on the city wall saw Yan Wang's token and did not even dare to check it. He lowered his head slightly and let Yan Wang's convoy entered the city. The county magistrate in the city heard that Yan Wang, who yesterday clearly said that he was leaving, actually came to the county seat. He was startled, hurriedly took along county deputies to welcome him.
"Welcome Your Royal Highness. Wangye1 has personally come, excuse this lowly official for not going out to meet you, Wangye please forgive."
"Nothing, get up." Gu Hui Yan held the rein loosely in his hand, sitting on the horse towering above, then said with indifference voice, "Is there a quiet courtyard nearby?"
Courtyard? How many days Yan Wang plan to stay? The county magistrate was a little dazed. He glanced at the carriage behind Yan Wang and vaguely guessed that Yan Wang was looking for a quiet courtyard for this one. He heard that Yan Wang had lost his wife for nearly ten years... The county magistrate's mind only went this far, he didn't dare to think about it anymore, his attitude became more respectful: "Wangye, we are honored by your presence in our humble county, how dare this lowly official let you rent a place outside? This lowly official's residence is small. If Wangye doesn't dislike it, how about staying at this lowly official's mansion."
Gu Hui Yan gave the county magistrate a quick glance. The magistrate was so practical, the bureaucratic language was the same stuff. Gu Hui Yan tightened the reins and calmed the agitated Zhao Xue, and said: "No, find another house."
Gu Hui Yan's words were flat, but the county magistrate immediately heard a danger from it. Cold sweat oozes from his back, and he did not dare make any more assertions. He lowered his body and replied: "This lowly official obeys, Wangye please wait a moment."
Lin Wei Xi felt the carriage stopped. Although she was alone in the carriage, she still sat steadily without curiously raising the curtain. It didn't take long for the carriage to continue moving. Lin Wei Xi estimated that after turning a few turns, the carriage let out a click sound. Then Zhou Mao Cheng's voice sounded from outside: "Lin girl, get off the carriage."
In fact, according to Lin Wei Xi's years of upbringing, her figure and appearance could not be seen by men other than her father and brother, and the carriage must be parked at the second gate. It was very rude to get on and off the carriage on the street. But now this was just a small town, and Lin Wei Xi had not recover her identity, so there was no need to be too particular.
Lin Wei Xi lifted the corner of her skirt to get out of the carriage. She looked up and found that they had stopped in front of a two-entry house. Lin Wei Xi was a little confused by Yan Wang's thoughts, what did Yan Wang mean?
Lin Wei Xi looked at Yan Wang, Gu Hui Yan as usual stood in front of everyone. He was listening to his subordinates reporting something. Aware of Lin Wei Xi's gaze, he raised his hand, stopped the subordinates' words, and then gently nodded to Lin Wei Xi: "Go inside."
Lin Wei Xi looked around, and pointed to herself in surprise. Gu Hui Yan nodded. Lin Wei Xi felt flattered then walked in first, Gu Hui Yan soon followed after her, and then the rest of the crowd.
They would stay here only temporarily, so Gu Hui Yan just bought a two-entry house. The second entry was left to Lin Wei Xi alone. Gu Hui Yan lived in the front with his subordinates. If something happened it would certainly alarm them. Lin Wei Xi's safety was guaranteed.
Lin Wei Xi had almost no luggage when she left home this morning. She lived in Aunt Lin's house for six years, but she had very little belonging. The things that tied her up was only some letters sent by Lin Yong. Lin Wei Xi had packed those up a long time ago and was ready to leave any time. She didn't want to see Aunt Lin's family again, so she didn't go back, but asked Zhou Mao Cheng to go to Aunt Lin's house and took her things.
After all, Aunt Lin was Lin Wei Xi's aunt, and adopted the original body for six years, Lin Wei Xi gave a fierce scold, but actually she didn't know what to do with them. Lin Wei Xi didn't intend to pursue those silver coins that Aunt Lin has deducted, only regarded it as giving money to a beggar, but what Li Da did yesterday made Lin Wei Xi felt really disgusted.
Lin Wei Xi grew up so big, no matter as Gao Xi or Lin Wei Xi, she never suffered such humiliation. She was so angry, but now she lost her identity, she couldn't do anything to Li Da, and she didn't know who to turn to for help. Lin Wei Xi thought about it all the way, but in the end she could only get angry with herself.
Lin Wei Xi walked to the inner courtyard. When he entered the door, Zhou Mao Cheng took advantage of the people around not paying attention and said quietly to Lin Wei Xi: "Lin's Daughter, don't be afraid. Uncle beat that kid so hard last night. Today, when I went to fetch things, their family was scared like a quail, even didn't dare to let out a fart."
Obviously very vulgar words but Lin Wei Xi laughed out loud. She then restrained her laugh and said seriously: "Thank you Uncle Zhou."
Zhou Mao Cheng was elated by the phrase "Uncle Zhou", he secretly sighed that it was better to have a girl. Listen to this beautiful voice, and talk politely, better than those wild boys in his family.
Looking at Lin Wei Xi, Zhou Mao Cheng thought on a whim, and asked, "Lin's Daughter, it's not that your uncle want to take advantage of you. Uncle Zhou really likes you as a girl. It just so happens that there are a few mediocre boys in my family who are about the same age as you and haven't married. You see if you want to marry into Uncle Zhou's family as daughter-in-law? As long as you want, whoever you take fancy to, Uncle Zhou will let any kid marry you!"
Lin Wei Xi originally was smiling, but when she heard this her smile gradually stiffened, "Uncle Zhou thank you for your kindness, there's no need..."
"Don't be polite, if you are willing, those small brats in our family are eager."
"There's really no need..."
After saying goodbye to regretful Zhou Mao Cheng, Lin Wei Xi turned and walked into the house. After entering the room, she heaved a long sigh.
Did she seem to be so worried about marrying? Why did everyone want to act as a matchmaker, Zhou Mao Cheng even planned to force his son.
Lin Wei Xi sat down slowly on the embroidered stool, she looked at the tiny cracks on the pear wood round table, slightly entranced.
Yan Wang rushed back to the capital, presumably for Gu Cheng Yao. Yes, she used to be blinded by her family background. She really thought because she was proficient in Four Arts2, and had a good hand in managing the household, so she thought others spoke highly of her because they really liked her. But once she was out of the halo of her family, she was exposed.
Lin Wei Xi smiled bitterly when she thought about it, if she was a man, she would not like herself, someone who relied on her family background and grandmother to be an oppressive women. That's why, even if she was really grateful to Zhou Mao Cheng, she could not marry and harm other family.
1 His Royal Highness, respectful way to call a prince or wang.↩
2 Zither, Go, calligraphy, painting.↩
Zhou Mao Cheng watched Lin Wei Xi enter the house with regret, then returned to the front with a long sigh. Gu Hui Yan was handling urgent matters in the temporary packed study. Hearing Zhou Mao Cheng sigh, he raised his head and glanced up. He kept writing with his hand, and asked casually: "What happened to you?"
"I think that Lin family girl is clever, and has a nimble mouth. Marrying her in the future can definitely revitalize the family. I cheekily act as a matchmaker for my sons, but she refused. Alas, although I expected it, it is still a pity..."
Gu Hui Yan laughed lightly, that girl was intelligent, courageous and high-spirited, if it was not a man with some ability, afraid that she couldn't be subdued. Therefore, Zhou Mao Cheng had been rejected, Gu Hui Yan was not surprised, because yesterday he just mentioned a few words and she could clearly contradict him.
However, speaking of Lin Wei Xi revitalizing family, Gu Hui Yan reminded of another matter. He personally wrote to Grand Princess Shou Kang to seek a daughter-in-law, unexpectedly she died of illness at the end of last year.
Gu Hui Yan still remembered that this daughter-in-law was named Gao Xi. In all fairness, Gu Hui Yan was quite satisfied with this daughter-in-law. It's just a pity that there were no fate, after all, you couldn't force it.
Shen shi had gone for ten years, and the old Wangfei had also died for a long time. Only two men remained in Yan Wang Mansion, Gu Hui Yan and Gu Cheng Yao. There was no mistress to take care the home, and the marriage of father and son had been delayed year after year. Gu Hui Yan didn't want to remarry himself, and of course he didn't bother to worry about Gu Cheng Yao's marriage. But Gu Cheng Yao suddenly sent him a half-fish jade pendant. When Gu Cheng Yao asked him to find the owner of this jade pendant, he was surprised.
Gu Cheng Yao was only sixteen years old, already knows how to find a wife for himself? Gu Hui Yan didn't care about family status, anyway, no matter what family status the woman had, to put in front of their family it was almost the same. Since Gu Cheng Yao liked it, as a father he didn't need to pour cold water on him. However, at that time Gu Hui Yan was still quelling the rebellion of Ding Duo Huo Ti tribe. He had no time to check the jade pendant of a woman, so he wrote a letter and sent it back to the capital together with the jade pendant.
Grand Princess Shou Kang was Gu Hui Yan's paternal aunt. Back then when the old Yan Wang had not move to the vassal state he was assisted by Princess Shou Kang, so the old Yan Wang and Wangfei had always valued the friendship of Princess Shou Kang. Later, after Gu Hui Yan's sudden emergence, his power greatly surpassed Grand Princess Shoukang Mansion, but Gu Hui Yan did not sever contact with the princess. The two families moved around fairly close, and Gu Hui Yan was also very courteous to this aunt.
Gu Hui Yan was not free, so it's logical for him to entrusted the matter of finding people to Grand Princess Shou Kang. The princess had always lived in the capital, and usually she had many contact with the womenfolk. It was more suitable for the princess to find someone than Gu Hui Yan. However, Gu Hui Yan didn't expect that he had just sent the letter away, and almost immediately, the princess sent the letter back, and the other half of the fish-shaped jade pendant came with the letter.
Oh, there was such a coincidence in the world, the woman Gu Cheng Yao was looking for turned out to be the granddaughter of Grand Princess Shou Kang. After he received the reply, Gu Hui Yan didn't say anything, and immediately took out his Yan Wang's seal, and sincerely asked for his son to marry the granddaughter of the princess, Gao Xi.
The news of marriage between the Duke Yingguo Mansion and Yan Wang Mansion was spread out in the capital. Two powerful families join together was a happy event. Gu Hui Yan solved his worry, and then concentrated on dealing with the war in the Northwest, not paying attention to the affairs of the mansion.
Gu Hui Yan knew very well about the situation of Grand Princess Shou Kang Mansion. Princess Shou Kang was favored before she declined. Her husband was a Tanhua1 in Chengwu dynasty era. The emperor's son-in-law couldn't serve as an official. Princess Shou Kang fuma2 was still a scholar with no foundation, it was a glory to marry a princess, but the future with the princess or as Tanhua he could only have one. Fuma official career was hopeless, he inevitably had to rely on the princess's face, and Princess Shou Kang also had a slightly stronger personality.
Later, the only daughter of Grand Princess Shou Kang, Wei Shi, was affected by the way her parents got along. After marrying into the Duke Yingguo Mansion, she refused to bend her waist and suffered a lot in concubine's hand. Wei shi's daughter, Gao Xi, couldn't accept it on her mother's behalf. She was competitive since she was a child, she had to be the best in everything she did among her sisters, even brothers. In Gu Hui Yan's view, a woman with strong personality was not a bad thing. On the contrary, if Gu Cheng Yao really liked the kind of gentle and weak woman, Gu Hui Yan would have to worry about the huge family business of Yan Wang Mansion. Moreover, Gao Xi, this junior, lived in Princess Shou Kang's mansion for more than half a year to received the princess's guidance, Gu Hui Yan was very relieved.
But Gu Hui Yan didn't expect in the period when he didn't pay attention to the affairs of the mansion, he received a letter informing the news of Gao Xi's death.
Although it was very disrespectful to the deceased to say this, but... Isn't it too soon? In particular, what made Gu Hui Yan frowned was the news that Gu Cheng Yao passed on along with the obituary of the deceased. Duke Yingguo Mansion intended to let Gao Xi's shu younger sister Gao Ran to marry as a second wife, and he already consented.
Gu Hui Yan didn't say anything at the time, but everyone present knew that Yan Wang was very upset about the re-marriage of his son.
Gu Hui Yan didn't know why he thought of his former daughter-in-law because of Lin Wei Xi. When Zhou Mao Cheng saw Gu Hui Yan's face a little gloomy, his unspoken grumble suddenly took a turn and swallowed. He looked at Gu Hui Yan's expression and said carefully: "Wangye, is it Shizi who wrote the letter?"
Gu Hui Yan sighed slightly: "The capital just sent a letter, his marriage to the third miss of Duke Yingguo Mansion is scheduled for next month."
Lin Wei Xi made a special trip to thank Yan Wang. She happened to hear this when she walked pass the window.
Gu Cheng Yao and Gao Ran will be married next month.
Author's note:
A good relationship can make people become better and a failed relationship can also destroy a person's self-confidence. Lin Wei Xi is now at a stage where she doubts herself and breaks her self-confidence because of her failed marriage.
1 Candidate who came in third place in imperial examination.↩
2 Emperor-son-in-law.↩
Chapter 7 Part 1: Anti-Marriage
Lin Wei Xi passed the window and happened to hear Yan Wang said that the wedding of Gu Cheng Yao and Gao Ran was scheduled for next month.
Lin Wei Xi thought she didn't care anymore, but when she heard these words, the smile on her face stiffened.
She died in depression in December, and only in a few days, Gu Cheng Yao is going to marry a new bride?
She was the eldest granddaughter of Duke Yingguo. Gu Cheng Yao didn't like her, Lin Wei Xi admitted it, but what about the Duke Yingguo Mansion? Where were her father and grandmother? They actually let Gu Cheng Yao do this. Perhaps they were eager to let Gao Ran enter the door as soon as possible and did not ruin the hard-won marriage between Yan Wang Mansion and Duke Yingguo Mansion because of Gao Xi's failure.
Lin Wei Xi felt sore in the corners of her eyes for no reason. Her mother Wei Shi died when she was ten years old. After that, Lin Wei Xi lived in her grandmother's princess mansion for more than half a year. She thought that she was quite indifferent to her former relatives. Between relatives also need affinity, since Duke Yingguo Shizi didn't like his di daughter, then she also wouldn't be close to him nor disrespect him, then the two sides were even. But how could they trampled her dignity like this? Was it because she was dead and would no longer know about these things, and there was no mother to stand up for her, so they became unscrupulous?
Sorry to disappointed them. She didn't die completely, and also returned to the world.
The guard outside the study had already seen Lin Wei Xi, and the conversation in the study suddenly stopped.
Lin Wei Xi adjusted her expression, smiled and walked up: "Is His Royal Highness Yan Wang inside?"
Before the guard reported it, Gu Hui Yan's low and clear voice could heard from the room: "Let her in."
Lin Wei Xi entered the room and saw Zhou Mao Cheng standing on one side, he hung his head slightly, looking unnatural.
Talking about Gu family's Shizi, even for a close confidante like Zhou Mao Cheng, it was not good to say too much.
Zhou Mao Cheng bowed his head and said nothing. Yan Wang treated them generously, but it didn't mean that they could meddle with Yan Wang's family affairs. Because Shizi had a father like Yan Wang, he had lived the life of the proud son of heaven since he was a child. Now he was just marrying a new wife, it was not a big deal. Yan Wang could be dissatisfied, but they couldn't.
Lin Wei Xi had a bit of inexplicable evil in her heart, deliberately asked: "Your Highness, Uncle Zhou, what are you talking about just now? Who is getting married?"
Zhou Mao Cheng glanced at Gu Hui Yan and found that Yan Wang did not mind, he explained to Lin Wei Xi: "It's the only son of Wangye, our Yan Wang Mansion Shizi, he is going to marry a wife."
"Oh, is it the first Shizi Consort? Congratulations to the young couple."
Zhou Mao Cheng's face was a little embarrassed: "It's the second wife."
Zhou Mao Cheng explained to Lin Wei Xi with some embarrassment, and Lin Wei Xi also pretended to listen. Neither of them noticed Gu Hui Yan glanced at Lin Wei Xi faintly, the glance passed by in a flash, but it contained palpitating exploration and insight. When most people heard about marriage, they wouldn't think to ask if it was the first partner, but when Lin Wei Xi asked it, it was as if she knew it was not the first partner.
Gu Hui Yan only glanced and then withdrew his gaze, his face still looked unhappy. On the other side, Lin Wei Xi finally "understood" the situation in Yan Wang Mansion, and sighed: "It turns out the son of Yan Wang Mansion is marrying a new wife. This is really unexpected. Is the son of Yan Wang already very old? Yan Wang is so young so I thought Shizi was not too old."
Gu Hui Yan was thinking about what happened just now. When he heard this, he couldn't help but laugh lightly, and looked at Lin Wei Xi with a smile: "Your compliment is too obvious, properly practice and then try again!"
Lin Wei Xi felt small grain pricks her heart. Now that she was caught by her ex-husband's father, she would inevitably felt a little troubled. Her eyes flowed, she glared at Gu Hui Yan unconvincingly: "What I said is true! Uncle Zhou, what do you say?"
Zhou Mao Cheng inexplicably got goose bumps, and he was compel to nod with a bitter face, "Wangye is young and strong, Shizi is also in his prime."
Gu Hui Yan smiled softly, and the atmosphere in the room suddenly became more relaxed.
Gu Hui Yan was in a much better mood, and Zhou Mao Cheng sighed with relief before he dared to speak: "Wangye, Shizi specially wrote to ask you go back to the wedding. The last time we were in the northwest calming down the chaos, so we couldn't make it back. Although Shizi didn't say it, he definitely looking forward to you. This time finally have a chance... Wangye, this subordinate know that you are not satisfied with this marriage, but the wood has become a boat. After all, Shizi likes..."
Lin Wei Xi couldn't bear to hear this "It seems that I have little knowledge. Yan Wang's expedition was only work of one or two years, to miss Shizi's first wedding, unexpectedly still able to catch up with the second."
Zhou Mao Cheng was speechless by Lin Wei Xi's sentence, his face flushed. Gu Hui Yan was not at all annoyed. Instead, he smiled and looked at Lin Wei Xi: "You seem to be very hostile to Gu Cheng Yao, you are even angry with his marriage. You don't know him, right?"
Lin Wei Xi was shocked in her heart, she carelessly said something in her heart, why had she forgotten that this was the powerful Yan Wang. She just leaked some emotions in her words and was caught by him.
Lin Wei Xi in any case was also a mistress of big house before. Her expression remained unchanged and deliberately showed an unreasonable attitude: "Of course I am hostile to him. You clearly said that you will settled me first and then return to the capital. But now he sent a letter to call you away! What should I do?"
This reason was reasonable, Gu Hui Yan accepted it. He let it go with a slight smile. Zhou Mao Cheng's heart was ups and downs. In such short period of time, he had been frightened several times. Now he looked at Lin Wei Xi differently. Was it because the ignorant was fearless or this girl simply lucky, dare to talk to Yan Wang like this, was Yan Wang really not annoyed?
Chapter 7 Part 2: Anti-Marriage
Zhou Mao Cheng sighed for a while, then retracted his gaze, still wanted to try again: "Wangye, the matter of Shizi..."
"No need to say anymore, I won't go back." Gu Hui Yan put down the writing brush on the desk, obviously his expression had not changed, but the room suddenly felt cold, "Less than a month after the first wife died of illness, he proposed to remarry, and the wedding is still scheduled for February this year. Did he ever consider Grand Princess Shou Kang's opinion? Already a big man, he's still so naive and reckless."
Zhou Mao Cheng tried to speak for Gu Cheng Yao: "Shizi is still young, how can he take into consideration the human relations..."
"Young? This year he is already seventeen. When I was seventeen years old, I was entrusted with the title of Yan Wang and took over the entire mansion of Yan Wang. If you look at him again, what have he done."
Zhou Mao had nothing to say. In fact, no matter who it was, seventeen was still half a child's age, not to mention for the noble son in the capital, it's the age of 'riding a horse on a leaning bridge and the building full of red sleeves'1. But who made Shizi's father, Yan Wang Gu Hui Yan, become famous too early, the light was too bright. Gu Hui Yan went to the battlefield at the age of fifteen. At the age of sixteen, he fought a beautiful battle that brought him fame. Since then, his reputation had spread throughout the country. After that, at the age of seventeen he became Dazhou's youngest Qinwang2. At the age of twenty-five, he already made great achievements and became the most important courtier and nephew that the emperor heavily rely on. At the age of twenty-seven he made the merits of 'saving the country in times of danger', at the age of twenty-nine became the regent chancellor3. By now, Yan Wang was only thirty-three years old, and he was already famous all over the world.
Under his father's aura, Gu Cheng Yao did seem a bit too thin. Gu Cheng Yao's performance in recent years was also remarkable. Looking at the younger generation in the capital, he was also one of the leaders, but compared with his father, it was really not enough.
Gu Hui Yan therefore dissatisfied with Gu Cheng Yao, and Zhou Mao Cheng had nothing to say. When Lin Wei Xi heard that Yan Wang wouldn't go back to attend the wedding of Gu Cheng Yao and Gao Ran, she almost couldn't hold back her laugh.
Obviously already on the road but avoiding it, this was not the same as not returning because of the war. Lin Wei Xi hurriedly lowered her head to cover up her gloating. However, Zhou Mao Cheng as a loyal subject really couldn't help it, he persuaded a few more words: "Wangye, this subordinate know that you have high hopes for Shizi, but Shizi is young after all. He is not like us, tumbling in the flames of war, training from early morning to have iron bone. Shizi has always admire you, but it's a pity because of the war, always separated and rarely together. This time you return to capital, it's a rare opportunity for you to get along with him. Even if you are dissatisfied, you have to talk to him slowly."
After listening, Gu Hui Yan didn't say anything, did not speak or showed anger. However, this kind of expression was often scarier than anger. Zhou Mao Cheng dared not say any more, and looked at Lin Wei Xi for help: "Lin's daughter, why don't you say something?"
Lin Wei Xi sneered inwardly, want her be the lobbyist? The ex-husband and her shu sister were getting married. Expecting her, this older sister, to bless their true love? Simply dreaming. Now Gu Cheng Yao's father and Gao Ran's future father-in-law was right in front of her, if Lin Wei Xi did not take advantage of this God-given opportunity to give them trouble, she would live this life in vain!
"Your Highness, you are doing the right thing. If your child does something wrong, he should be punished. You can't get used to him! He is such a big man, what can't he stand? Without your protection, when he won't be obedient can he take responsibilities?"
Zhou Mao Cheng looked at Lin Wei Xi in amazement, and Gu Hui Yan could not help but laugh: "You really hate him. Forget it, just listen to you, this time I will not tolerate him. But you are just a child, why sound so mature? You are one year younger than Gu Cheng Yao, but your teaching tone is the same as his elders."
Lin Wei Xi was called a "child", she was very upset at first, but when she looked at the people around her had a relieved expression, she guessed that Yan Wang's laugh was very rare, at least it proved that there would be no major events next. Lin Wei Xi unexpectedly solved Gu Cheng Yao's entanglement, her gangster heart actually not willing. But she couldn't be too much, Yan Wang was kind to her, if she provoked again it would be too boring.
Looking at Lin Wei Xi's reluctant look, Gu Hui Yan felt more and more that this little girl was really lively and compare to a solidified person like him almost like they lived in two different worlds. Gu Hui Yan didn't want to embarrass her too much, so he asked: "I haven't asked just now, what are you doing here?"
Lin Wei Xi almost forgot about it, she quickly said, "I come here specially to thanking Your Highness Yan Wang! Thank you for upholding justice for me, and thank you for taking me out of the wolf den."
It's just a sentence, Gu Hui Yan didn't take it seriously. He gestured to Zhou Mao Cheng, and Zhou Mao Cheng retreated. After there were no outsiders in the study, Gu Hui Yan and Lin Wei Xi talked about her personal affairs: "Your aunt is too greedy and is not a good match. I sent someone to investigate Li Yuanwai, his son is indecisive and unreliable. It's right for you to not want to marry these two families. Although this county town is very small, but it's better to be close to your hometown. You can get married here, so you can live a stable life and avoid the harassment of Lijia village. I asked the county magistrate to fetch a roster over, among them there are a few young official..."
Lin Wei Xi was almost disillusioned: "Your Highness, what are you doing?"
Gu Hui Yan sighed slightly, looked at Lin Wei Xi's helpless eyes: "You were angry yesterday, so I leave you alone. But you are young and at your prime age, you won't really be an ancient Buddha with a green lantern and be alone right?"
"Why not?" Lin Wei Xi looked at Gu Hui Yan, her eyes moistened unknowingly, "I thought you wouldn't be like this. I respect you from the bottom of my heart, but why do you want to force me?"
After Lin Wei Xi finished speaking, she did not dare to look at Gu Hui Yan's expression again, turned around and rushed out quickly. Zhou Mao Cheng who guarded the door was shocked when he saw Lin Wei Xi rushing out with red eyes: "Lin Girl, what's the matter with you?"
Lin Wei Xi didn't speak, and ran away. Zhou Mao Cheng stared blankly and then looked into the study, he saw Gu Hui Yan pressing his eyebrows.
Zhou Mao Cheng looked at the expressions of these two people, and the drama that played in his head was almost scaring him to death. He stood at the door and carefully asked: "Wangye, what happened to Miss Lin?"
Gu Hui Yan sighed more times these day than in the past year: "Blame me for forcing her to marry."
It turned out to be this, oops, scared him to death. Zhou Mao Cheng breathed a sigh of relief. He thought of yesterday's affairs, and after a short while, he decided to tell Yan Wang.
After Zhou Mao Cheng finished talking about Li Da, Gu Hui Yan's expression was completely out of sight. His face was covered with ice, and his voice was faintly angry: "Why didn't you say it yesterday?"
"She is a little girl with a thin skin, she wouldn't want to let people know about this kind of thing."
Gu Hui Yan thought for a while, and suddenly felt a little pity in his heart. He thought she only had a temper, just now she only make noises that she would not marry. It turned out that she came across such a thing in private. She was a lone and weak woman to run into this kind of thing and had nowhere to ask for help. It's no wonder she rejected getting married. Gu Hui Yan sighed in his heart, but the words that came out were completely different and cold: "Call Gu Mingda in."
Gu Mingda was Yan Wang's right-hand man. Zhou Mao Cheng knew that Yan Wang was really angry this time. In recent years, Yan Wang had a lot of responsibilities and his emotions became more and more restrained. Few could make him release his emotions, Aunt Lin's family could do this, that was also some ability.
1 It's lines from a poem from "The Bodhisattva Man" by Wei Zhuang a poet in the late Tang Dynasty. I think it basically means romantic, unrestrained life of youth, not too sure!↩
2 First class prince.↩
3 A person who issue administrative order on behalf of the monarch, basically the person in charge behind the emperor because the emperor was too young.↩
Chapter 8 Part 1: The Capital
After Lin Wei Xi shouted those words to Yan Wang, she pushed away and ran towards the backyard. After returning to her room, her emotions slowly calmed down.
Lin Wei Xi didn't know why she suddenly erupted. Maybe during this period of time, her previous life and that heavenly book had been holding her firmly. After Li Da's incident last night, Lin Wei Xi's backlog of emotions suddenly broke out. It could also because of what Yan Wang said. If it was other people that said it she could fight with reason, but this was Yan Wang.
Lin Wei Xi didn't light up the lamp, while she sat for a while the room gradually darkened, and she couldn't even see the bed cabinet. Lin Wei Xi was in a daze, suddenly the door was knocked: "Miss Lin, are you inside?"
Lin Wei Xi returned to her senses, she never heard this voice before. Why was it outside her door? However even if Lin Wei Xi was angry, she was convinced that Yan Wang could guarantee her safety, so she didn't think too much about it, stood up to open the door.
Standing outside the door was a woman with hair combed into two buns. She was about seventeen or eighteen, dressed like a maid. The visitor was obviously surprised when she saw Lin Wei Xi, and when she realized her rudeness she quickly bowed her head to salute: "Miss Lin, this servant girl is Wan Yue, come to serve Miss Lin by the order of Wangye."
Lin Wei Xi looked at the person, her eyes moved slightly. "It was Yan Wang who asked you to come?"
"Yes."
Lin Wei Xi clenched her lips, wondering what Yan Wang meant. The unpleasant scene just now was actually Lin Wei Xi's fault. From a secular perspective, Yan Wang did this for her own good, and it was Lin Wei Xi who failed to appreciate it. Lin Wei Xi herself still entangled in whether to go over and apologize, but Yan Wang sent someone over in a flash, as if he didn't put the matter in his eyes. Yan Wang didn't care, Lin Wei Xi should felt relief, but she felt very complicated instead. This made Lin Wei Xi felt that she was completely irrelevant in Yan Wang's eyes, as if she was just an ignorant oil bottle1 that need to be settled down.
Lin Wei Xi immediately laughed at herself. She was originally a nobody to Yan Wang, and Yan Wang brought her out was already an extreme benevolence. When they reached the next town, Lin Wei Xi should resign consciously. Yan Wang still has major events in the capital, not to mention that Gu Cheng Yao's wedding was just around the corner. Yan Wang just said that, but how could he not go back to participate? Lin Wei Xi should be tactful and not be a burden for Yan Wang.
So Lin Wei Xi didn't say anything, but just nodded and stepped aside: "Come in. Where are you from?"
"This slave is from Shunde. Originally a servant girl of the young miss in county magistrate's mansion. Yan Wang asked to bought this slave from the mansion, to serve Miss Lin"
Lin Wei Xi's forehead almost dripping sweats, "You were personal servant girl of county magistrate's daughter before?"
"Cannot be count as personal servant, but just do some crude jobs."
Lin Xi had manage the household for many years, looking at Wan Yue's conversation and conduct, she knew that this must be an important servant in her master's house. Considering the gap between a small town and the capital, it might take a lot of effort to cultivate a maid like Wan Yue. This was probably the madam of county magistrate's weapon prepared for her own daughters, but Wang Yan unexpectedly asked for it. This was actually very rude in rich family circle. After all, the maid beside the young lady was basically equal to the face of the master, and Yan Wang's behavior was... too domineering.
But Lin Wei Xi just thought about it, and would not return the person. It was very important to have a clever maid at hand. Anyway, it was Yan Wang who step in. If Lin Wei Xi could just sit and enjoyed his success, why not do it?
Lin Wei Xi asked Wan Yue a few more questions, and after knowing it she set it aside.
Although Lin Wei Xi had received Yan Wang's good intention, she was still awkward. Yan Wang didn't bother to be at odds with her, and still sent her a capable maid. In this way, should Lin Wei Xi also follow the steps to take the initiative admitting her mistake? After all, although Yan Wang seemed easy to talked to, but he was also a Qinwang with the power to overturn the world, the commander of the three armies with outstanding achievements. Not to say that far, on the rebellion of the Northwest Duo Hua La Ti of the previous year, they tried to provoke Yan Wang, after their defeat, the tribe's men and boys became extinct, which was an order from Yan Wang himself.
Being easy to talk to was only on the surface. Lin Wei Xi did not dare to offend such a person.
The next morning, Lin Wei Xi went to the front yard to look for Yan Wang. Zhou Mao Cheng was busy going in and out. When he saw Lin Wei Xi, he said hello from afar: "Lin Girl, you got up so early?"
Lin Wei Xi blushed with shame, yesterday because she was frightened and afterward felt relieved she had a rare good night's sleep, and only woke up when the sun was already three poles. But she was usually very well-educated and would not do such inappropriate things. The only time Lin Wei Xi was overslept she bumped into Yan Wang. Everyone had been waiting for her for a long time without saying anything, and she appeared in front of Yan Wang with messy hair. Lin Wei Xi felt embarrassed at the thought of the scene that day, but Zhou Mao Cheng actually shouted out in front of so many people.
Lin Wei Xi smiled stiffly: "Uncle Zhou, you misunderstand, I got up a long time ago." Lin Wei Xi was afraid that Zhou Mao Cheng would ask again, and quickly changed the subject: "Uncle Zhou, what are you doing?"
Zhou Mao Cheng finally changed the subject and said: "I was ordered by Wangye to go out and buy something. If you think they are noisy, just go back and at ease wait."
Lin Wei Xi guessed that Yan Wang took advantage of the time now to purchase something he needed for the road. This was Yan Wang troops' matter. Lin Wei Xi understood her place, so she didn't ask much. She glanced secretly in the direction of the study and found that it was quiet.
Zhou Mao Cheng was aware of Lin Wei Xi's movements, and he showed it clearly, asked: "Are you looking for Wangye?"
Now that she was discovered, Lin Wei Xi stopped covering it up and admitted: "I want to ask Yan Wang some things about my father."
Zhou Mao Cheng sighed when he heard it was about Lin Yong's business. The eyes that looked at Lin Wei Xi contained more pity: "Wangye went out early this morning. If you have something to say to him, you might as well wait."
Lin Wei Xi responded. She was very self-aware, and smiled when she saw this: "I understand, thank Uncle Zhou."
Zhou Mao Cheng looked at Lin Wei Xi's expression and almost told her what Yan Wang was doing today, but he worried about how sensitive women are. This kind of thing was harmful to her reputation after all, so he let it go.
Lin Wei Xi concealed a sigh of relief when she learned that Yan Wang was not there, she went back to the backyard so to not disturbed Zhou Mao Cheng's work. However, she seemed to be born to worry about life. When she was ten years old she was taken to the princess mansion, every 12 o'clock she followed her grandmother to take care the princess mansion's internal affairs and outside businesses. Seeing that Lin Wei Xi really like to take care of these, Grand Princess Shou Kang prepared a lot of land and shops for her dowry. When she was fourteen years old and engaged to Gu Cheng Yao, the Princess gave these properties to her early and let her took care of her own dowry.
Later, she married to Yan Wang Mansion. Although she was Shizi Consort, there was no mother-in-law or grandmother-in law above her. She took care of the food, clothing, housing and transportation of the Yan Wang Mansion herself. Lin Wei Xi had long accustomed to giving orders and managing people. Later, she became Lin Wei Xi, her ears suddenly became peaceful, but she was still quite unaccustomed. Previously, living in Aunt Lin's house if there were no reason she wouldn't speak. Now, listening to the movement outside, it was really difficult for Lin Wei Xi to sit still.
1 Oil bottle: Derogatory term that basically means children that a widow brings when she remarried↩
Chapter 8 Part 2: The Capital
Lin Wei Xi couldn't help it, and took Wan Yue to the front yard to watch the excitement, looked at the command of Yan Wang's subordinates. Zhou Mao Cheng returned after he brought some people to buy things. He didn't know whether it was good or bad. Lin Wei Xi came across this lively scene couldn't stand idly by and wanted to give a command or two. Gradually, it was done as Lin Wei Xi said. The remaining guys listened and then worked hard to move the items.
These people were mostly military men, taciturn, like to do more and talk less. Lin Wei Xi command was extremely smooth, so much better than those old women in the inner house, Zhou Mao Cheng also felt that working with strength was so much easier, he and a few others were silently relieved. Zhou Mao Cheng looked at Lin Wei Xi's commanding posture and sighed again in his heart. Lin Wei Xi this girl had a nimble mouth and arranged the housework in an orderly manner, she looked like she came from prosperous family. It was certain that no matter who married her, their family business would be flourishing in the future. Unfortunately, his sons did not have this blessing.
Gu Hui Yan returned with his people at dusk. On the way, his subordinate reported to him about the activities in the yard today. When Gu Hui Yan heard how Lin Wei Xi set the world to rights and greatly showed her skills, he lightly smiled.
That's good, with a clever mind and an upright character, no matter who she married in the future, Gu Hui Yan wouldn't have to worry about her being cheated on. After all, Lin Yong died to save Gu Hui Yan. As long as he could, Gu Hui Yan also wanted Lin Yong's only bloodline to be trouble-free and have harmonious life for a lifetime.
Lin Wei Xi heard that Yan Wang was back, she struggled for half a day, and in the end took Wan Yue to greet Gu Hui Yan.
No matter from the perspective of the previous life or the perspective of Lin Yong, Gu Hui Yan was Lin Wei Xi's elder. As a junior, she should paid respect to Yan Wang, and conveniently apologized for yesterday's mistakes. Yan Wang as an elders should not embarrass her as an ignorant junior.
This time Lin Wei Xi had just walked into the study, the guard at the door let her in without an announcement. Gu Hui Yan was not surprised by Lin Wei Xi's arrival. He seemed to be busy with official duties. He pointed his hand to a pear wood armchair and said, "Sit and wait for a while."
Lin Wei Xi sat down obediently. Even in front of the Duke Yingguo she still dared to show her temper, don't expect her to listen to admonishment obediently. But facing Gu Hui Yan, Lin Wei Xi didn't know what was going on, she had no temper at all.
Gu Hui Yan lowered his eyes to read the letter. Lin Wei Xi saw that Gu Hui Yan looked so serious, she became curious, when Gu Hui Yan closed the letter, she couldn't help asking: "Your Highness, whose letter is this? You take it so seriously?"
Gu Hui Yan's hand movement stopped, and he glanced at Lin Wei Xi with a bit of interest in his heart: "How do you know that I am serious?"
"It's easy. When I came last time, you read the letter very quickly, but this letter took almost twice as long as the last time."
Gu Hui Yan smiled lightly, with a color of approval in his eyes: "You are observant." Only in seconds could find this subtle difference. Of course, Gu Mingda and other veterans also could do it, but compared to Lin Wei Xi's age and experience, this was commendable.
Suddenly praised by Yan Wang, Lin Wei Xi was flattered. Gu Hui Yan also answered Lin Wei Xi's question very easily: "It's Zhang Jiangling."
Lin Wei Xi thought for a moment, and was stunned: "Is it from First Assistant Zhang?"
Zhang Xiao Lian's ancestral home was in Jiangling, so he also known as Zhang Jiangling. This was not a secret in the officialdom, but for Lin Wei Xi?
Gu Hui Yan's complexion didn't changed. He put things aside, like an easy-going uncle coaxing an ignorant niece: "It's him."
Lin Wei Xi was frightened. She stared wide-eyes and looked at the letter that was folded at random by Gu Hui Yan, somewhat horrified: "Your Highness, I just said casually, not dare to interrupt your business, you should go back to First Assistant's letter first."
"There's no rush." Gu Hui Yan appeared casual, the world-famous First Assistant, to him seemed only an ordinary scholar.
Lin Wei Xi realized that she delayed First Assistant's letter, at once she couldn't sit still. She was also suddenly realized, Gu Hui Yan was one of the three auxiliary ministers, and the most trusted one with military power. She used to think these titles only sounded powerful, but now she intuitively feels what this means.
In Lin Wei Xi's eyes, the person was distant like the boss character on stage play, to Gu Hui Yan was nothing more than a colleague who often wrote letters.
Lin Xi was shocked to speechlessness, Gu Hui Yan saw that she was terrified thus took the initiative to change the subject: "I heard today Zhou Mao Cheng completed the purchase, your merit was not small,"
"I dare not, that was just some exaggeration." Talking about this topic, Lin Wei Xi really relaxed a lot. "Your Highness, are you leaving for your journey?"
"Almost. Originally this house was bought for you. I plan to wait for your lifelong events to be settled. Then go back to the capital again. But since you don't want to, there is no need to wait."
Lin Wei Xi sighed softly, she felt a little bit of guilt, lowered her head and said to Gu Hui Yan, "Thank you, Wangye."
"Nothing, it's because I didn't think it through. Even if I leave you with more self-protection, but here is very far from the capital, I will eventually like the whip that cannot reach (too far away to do anything). The county magistrate here will be content for a while, but as time goes by, I am afraid he will make things difficult for you. You are a lone and weak woman, simply can't compete with those authorities, rather than making you worry about fear, it is better to put you where I can see."
Lin Wei Xi was grateful at first, Yan Wang was really a good person. But after listening to the last sentence, she gradually felt that something was wrong: "Yan Wang, what do you mean?"
"Didn't Zhou Mao Cheng hand over those brow pomade to you? The road is bumpy, take advantage now to prepare thoroughly, so on the journey you can feel at ease."
Lin Wei Xi's eyes widened in surprise, and her red lips opened slightly: "Are you planning to take me to the capital?"
Gu Hui Yan glanced at her strangely, his tone was absolute: "This is natural. You now still in your father's filial piety, getting married is not urgent, you can rest assured living in Yan Wang Mansion as long as you want, the Yan Wang Mansion will not be stingy with this expense."
The author has something to say:
Returning to the capital, Lin Wei Xi will return to her battlefield.
Chapter 9 Part 1: Return
You can rest assured living in Yan Wang Mansion as long as you want.
This sentence seemed to be echoing in Lin Wei Xi's ear, she stared blankly on the spot. After she came to her senses, with straight face said: "No"
Gu Hui Yan's expression didn't changed, but hidden deep in the eyes an inexplicable inquiry: "Why?"
What could Lin Wei Xi said, could she said that 'your son is actually my husband in my previous life, and your soon to be daughter-in-law is my shu younger sister?' Lin Wei Xi had suffered enough by those two people, and now she still had to return with another identity?
Lin Wei Xi refused to even think about it: "Your Highness, this is not appropriate. I am not a relative of Yan Wang Mansion. If I live in the mansion for nothing what does it look like? And your new daughter-in-law is about to enter the house, and I as an outsider to live there, how can she not mind?"
Gu Hui Yan looked at Lin Wei Xi, with calm eyes and faint smile: "If I say you can live with ease then you can, if people speak out of turn, it doesn't matter who it is, you come to tell me."
'It doesn't matter who it is.' Hearing this Lin Wei Xi's back felt chilled, Yan Wang meant Gao Ran, right? That's right, a lone woman without a father and mother living in other people house indeed equal to adding a lot of troubles. It was excusable for the mistress felt unhappy. Lin Wei Xi had been a daughter-in-law before, so she understood this. But if the person that spoken was Yan Wang, he said can then it can, others just need to endure any trouble.
Lin Wei Xi suddenly sighed, it seems not too long ago she still worked hard managing Yan Wang Mansion's housework. Man at the front to be well-off, man at the back was exhausted, to break the silver teeth and swallow the blood 1. But in the blink of an eye. She turned from the worrying person into the privileged person.
The world was really wonderful, and the root of all this was just a word from the person in front of her.
Lin Wei Xi sighed for a while, and finally shook her head: "Your Highness, your kindness I appreciate it my heart. But I just wish to live a peaceful life, free of illness and disasters throughout one's life. Yan Wang Mansion's status is too high, it's unsuitable for me."
"Unsuitable for you? Why do I think you just don't want to go?"
Lin Wei Xi felt unspeakable pressure. This was Yan Wang, when he spoke there was no slightest amount of arrogance, his laugh sound like moving water, like you step on shallow water beach, made people felt refreshed, but soon you realized that you had been wrapped in the deep sea, the surface was as calm as before, but when it was ready it could set off terrifying waves. Lin Wei Xi now was the one who submerged in the water, over and over again.
.
Lin Wei Xi secretly scolded herself as a pig's brain. She was stumbled once yesterday, why was she fell again today. In the end she put on the air of a rural little girl resisting to stay at a high gate, deliberately rude and said: "I went to the capital when I was ten years old. There are many carriage and people in the capital. What people wear casually on the street are comparable to the village head's family. But at that time when I was extremely ill, with so many people on the street, none of them stopped by to ask and even drove me and my father away. I don't like that place. Besides, you are Yan Wang, don't look at you talk nicely to me now, but it's definitely will not the case when you return to your mansion. I can't even live in my aunt's house, let alone living in Yan Wang Mansion."
Gu Hui Yan ignored the little girl's delicate and sensitive moods. He restrained his imposing manner and said gently, "Don't be afraid, I will take you back. What happened when you were ten years old will never happen again. Moreover, there are few people in the mansion, and I only have one son. Although he is not sensible, he is unlikely to embarrass you. You just stay in the capital. If you don't like other people to disturb, then I will find you a separate courtyard in the mansion. You have the final say in the manpower arrangement. As for food and clothing expenses you don't need to worry about it. Your spending money will come from my personal accounts, and I will give you whatever you want. No one will come to point their fingers at you."
"Actually, find a simple and quiet town where I can live peacefully..."
"There are no real simplicity in front of interests. You are a very wealthy young woman. If you live outside alone, it's not safe anywhere. But as long as you come to the capital, whether you want to marry or live alone in the future, only in Yan Wang Mansion no one will bother you."
"I..." Lin Wei Xi opened her mouth and found that Gu Hui Yan had said everything, and she could no longer find any reason to object. She said that she didn't want to be sent under the fence2 , so Gu Hui Yan would find a courtyard for her alone. She was worried that she would be in conflict with the new mistress, so Gu Hui Yan would let her made her own private account, so that no one could control her. Lin Wei Xi held back for a long time, only to say: "This is too much trouble for you..."
"No trouble."
Lin Wei Xi was completely speechless. She looked at Yan Wang who was so calm and suddenly felt a strange feeling.
Why did she feel that Yan Wang had deliberately led her to say her unwillingness, and then blocked her way one by one? Yan Wang looked easy-going, but there was no room to maneuver once he made decision. In fact, he was actually a very high-handed person.
Gu Hui Yan noticed Lin Wei Xi's hidden gaze, he smiled indifferently, rather asked: "What's the matter? You don't want to leave your hometown, so you don't want to go?"
In fact, Lin Wei Xi really wanted to use this excuse. Unfortunately, a few days ago, in order to rely on Yan Wang, she cut off herself this 'hometown' reasoning, the most powerful escape route. Lin Wei Xi felt weak from the bottom of her heart. She sighed, her whole person drooped down: "Very well, just as Yan Wang said."
Lin Wei Xi couldn't tell what kind of feelings she felt for the capital. She grew up there, all her relatives lived in that magnificent city, and all her nightmares had happened there. If possible, Lin Wei Xi didn't want to return to the capital, saying that it was alright for her to escape, and to believe in one's own lie. It was not easy for her to live a lifetime again. She didn't want to see Gu Cheng Yao and Gao Ran again. As long as she didn't see them, Lin Wei Xi could continue to deceive herself. You are not a failure. You can also find a small town to live a stable and prosperous life. You just can't see your relatives, friends, and husband. It's not that they abandon you, throw you out like a worn out shoe.
But when the five words "return to Yan Wang Mansion" came out of Gu Hui Yan's mouth, after Lin Wei Xi's strong rejection at the beginning, and there was no more room to change the situation, her heart suddenly calmed down. In fact, she was not reconciled.
Not talking about others, but only about Grand Princess Shou Kang, Lin Wei Xi wanted to go back to see her grandmother again. She was the only child of her mother. Mother Wei was also the only daughter of Princess Shou Kang. Wei shi passed away early. Now Lin Wei Xi was the only bloodline of Princess Shou Kang, and the relationship between her grandmother and her husband was not very good. Lin Wei Xi was heartbroken when she thought that there was not even a junior to serve her grandmother. Even only for her grandmother, she had to go back.
1 An analogy of extreme helpless tolerance.↩
2 To live in someone else's house and dependent on others.↩
Chapter 9 Part 2: Return
Lin Wei Xi's mood gradually calmed down. Gu Hui Yan saw that Lin Wei Xi had figured it out. He glanced at her with satisfaction, then continued to read the letter, and casually said: "Lin Yong's canonization imperial decree, Jin Shu Iron Deed, as well as the land deeds assigned by the court are all with me. If you have nothing to do in these two days, you can check the ritual objects in the gift list book. Will you read the gift list?"
"I will." Lin Wei Xi had arranged banquets and prepared New Year's gifts with Princess Shou Kang since she was young. Last year she prepared Yan Wang Mansion's tribute to the palace by herself. If she had known what will happened today, why bother took care of the family business in the first place, just let Yan Wang Mansion's business all go to a deficit.
"Then you go and check it out first. After going back to the capital, I will exchange the title deed with those around the capital, and it will be your dowry in the future."
Lin Yong's posthumous title were greatly embezzled, the Marquis's set of special ritual object was obvious so no one dared to move it, but other than that, a lot of land deeds, raw silk and silver were intercepted. Gu Hui Yan knew that official corruption was bad, but he didn't expect it to be this serious. If he hadn't made a temporary detour to Shunde Prefecture, afraid even this items would have been lost. The county magistrate has been careful to excuse himself today, for fear that Gu Hui Yan would condemn him, but what status Gu Hui Yan had, how could he be angry with a few low-grade officials. He wrote directly to Zhang Xiao Lian, how First Assistant Zhang deal with his subordinates was none of his business, as long as he finally got the result from him.
But he could just manipulate these disgraceful things, Lin Wei Xi didn't need to know. The land deed granted by the imperial court to Lin Yong were mostly just padding, and many of them were just name on paper, they wouldn't reach Lin Wei Xi's hand. Gu Hui Yan would exchange these death deeds to the land in the periphery of the capital. Lin Wei Xi could not do these things, but under his name, it was nothing.
Lin Wei Xi converted it in her mind, and suddenly became interested: "Your Highness, how will this be converted? How much one mu1 of land will be exchange for the land in capital?"
Gu Hui Yan couldn't help but laugh, his eyes were full of smiles, he looked at her helplessly with amusement: "Don't worry. I will not take advantage of you. Naturally, one mu is exchanged for one mu, the land will be equally converted."
This was not an equal conversion. Lin Yong's fief was in Shunde. How could the land of Shunde comparable to the land in the capital? When Lin Wei Xi heard this, she quickly thanked Yan Wang for fear that he would regret it: "Thanking Your Highness Yan Wang."
Gu Hui Yan put one hand on the wooden table and looked at Lin Wei Xi with a smile: "You resist marrying like that. I thought you don't want to hear people mention about the dowry."
"How can that be the same?" Lin Wei Xi had been managing the household since she was little, she greatly understood the benefits of private property. She certainly did not want to marry again, but if someone prepared a dowry for her, it's okay, and there was no need to worry about her pride.
Gu Hui Yan was amused, and he even laughed slightly. If Zhou Mao Cheng or other old people standing here, they would be shocked with their mouth gaping at the sight. However, Lin Wei Xi still didn't understand how rare it was to see Yan Wang laugh. She was now anxious to find a chance to retire. Finally able to get Lin Yong's title, her palms were itching now.
Gu Hui Yan could see Lin Wei Xi's eagerness. He didn't make things difficult. He pointed to the box beside Lin Wei Xi and said, "This is your father's land deed and that is the maid slave contract. You can take them together. It is not convenient to bring too many maid on the road. I only gave you one, and the rest will be in the capital to make up for it."
Lin Wei Xi was not polite, nimbly step forward to pick up the stuff from Gu Hui Yan. Lin Wei Xi hugged the wooden box and bowed to Gu Hui Yan. She was about to withdraw when suddenly she heard Gu Hui Yan said something very unintentionally: "If you are wronged in the future, come and find me. There is no need to make a compromise."
Lin Wei Xi froze for a moment, a startling guess came to her mind. Her pupils unconsciously enlarge, clearly shocked: "How do you know?"
Gu Hui Yan didn't speak, he spread out the rice paper and took the writing brush from the case, apparently planning to write back to Zhang Xiao Lian. Lin Wei Xi didn't say anything, quietly grind the ink for Gu Hui Yan, and then quickly retreat.
After she came out of the study, the cold air rushed to her face, the wooden box in her hand heavily demonstrated it existence, Lin Wei Xi finally gave birth to a sense of reality.
Growing up so big, for the first time someone told her, "You don't need to make a compromise." The former father, paternal grandmother, even the teachers in Duke Yingguo Mansion all told her over and over again 'You are the eldest granddaughter. You must put the older sister decorum and yield to younger sister below'.
Lin Wei Xi's eyes were a little moist for some reason. It turned out that Yan Wang went out today for her business. Not only did he deal with Aunt Lin and Li Da's family, he also got Lin Yong's reward from the county magistrate for her.
This was the first time she felt the feeling of being cared for by others. In the past, Gao Ran could get the attention of Duke Yingguo Shizi, brothers in the family, and even the male cousins by doing nothing. Lin Wei Xi dismissed it at that time. She was not without hands, she could strive for the things she want herself, so why use them to be a good person? But now Lin Wei Xi finally knows that it was different.
The intention alone was not something you could get by striving for it by yourself, even if it was the same thing.
Yan Wang didn't stay in the county for long. As soon as the things for the road were ready, Yan Wang ordered his departure and headed to the capital. Originally Yan Wang came to Shunde Prefecture only to deliver Lin Yong's bones to be buried, soon after he would hurriedly chased after the troops to return to the imperial court, but Lin Wei Xi was added to the team at the last minute, and the plan to chase the troops was naturally abandoned. Gu Hui Yan separated from the troops couldn't be covered. In this case, Gu Hui Yan simply wrote a letter to the capital, explaining that he would be late, and then took Lin Wei Xi to the capital slowly.
For Gu Hui Yan, this was a painstakingly slow course of journey, but for Lin Wei Xi who had never traveled far and was not in good health, such a schedule was still too rush.
Lin Wei Xi was able to hold it for a few days, but when she settled down in a traveling post, Lin Wei Xi could no longer hold it. She had a high fever that night, fell gravely ill.
Because of Lin Wei Xi's illness on the road, Yan Wang's journey was greatly delayed. It was already March when they finally returned to the capital.
One month had passed since the wedding of Gu Cheng Yao and Gao Ran.
Lin Wei Xi was feeling ill and leaned on the carriage, someone's voice could be heard from outside: "Miss Lin, Yan Wang Mansion is here."
Supported by the maid, Lin Wei Xi cautiously got out of the carriage and stood in front of this magnificent mansion again. .
Yan Wang Mansion, she is back.
1 Unit of area equal to 1/15 of a hectare.↩
Chapter 10 Part 1: Shu Younger Sister
"Wangye is coming back today. Have you checked the arrangements in the front yard?"
"Please rest assured Shizi Consort, this old slave went to look three or four times. Every servants were all very cautious and didn't dare to neglect their duties."
Gao Ran heaved a sigh of relief: "That's good, this is the first time Yan Wang return to the mansion in a long time. I will go to the front hall to meet father-in-law in a while. I can't make any mistakes."
Tao Mama sighed and said, "Don't worry Shizi Consort, since you entered the door which matters you have not done perfectly. You are generous to others, compassionate to old servants, not to say you exempt them from working hard, you also send out monthly silver, what is it called... Oh yes, pension. Now in the mansion from top to bottom which one is not polite to you, there is no perfect person like you in the world. Although Yan Wang has high authority, he is the most reasonable. You take care of the mansion so well. When he meet you he can only feel grateful."
Gao Ran after hearing this didn't refute, but she reprimanded the wet nurse slightly: "What are you talking about Tao Mama, how am I perfect. Don't say that, let people hear the joke."
"How can this be a joke! Although this old slave is your wet nurse, but these words are really not this old slave boasting. When Shizi Consort was still an unmarried young lady, she was praised by everyone, learning the guqin1 can make a new lively song, and learning chess can come up with uncommon gomoku2. This old woman follows just like following Buddha. You to learn without a teacher, can casually say profound Buddhist principles. There is also the story you told the young master when you were ten, what agar wood saved the mother, the fisherman and the fish. Heaven, how old were at you that time, you were able to make up this kind of story. Celestial fairy reincarnation will never be more perfect than you. Shizi Consort, this is not just this old slave who said that, the maids and grannies in the Duke mansion all said that you are the reincarnation of Xuan Nu, it's just a pity you have slightly lower birth, otherwise, why would you be wronged to be the second wife!"
Gao Ran always acted modest, but she didn't stop Tao Mama, she just listened with a smile. After the talk turned to her birth and becoming the second wife, Gao Ran's smile stiffened, but then she felt at ease. What about a lower birth? What about being a shu3 daughter? Being di4 or shu should never been a determining factor for evaluating a woman. As long as she married well, what was the different between di or shu?
Moreover, even a di daughter might not be able to live well. Have a noble birth but unable to invite men's affection, that was the same as putting themselves on the road to death.
Gao Ran didn't want to mention another person on such an important day. It's unlucky. Her face turned cold and said to Tao Mama: "Tao Mama, you have cross the line. Older sister is forever my older sister and the first wife of Shizi. The deceased are the noble ones, I have always loved my older sister. I know you don't mean this. But if it heard by Shizi and the others, they would think that I as a shu daughter disrespected her di older sister, and is causing trouble. This cannot be said again, okay?"
Tao Mama and Gao Ran's dowry maid, Ning Fu, felt indignant, she said: "Shizi Consort, the eldest sister did not give you face when she was at home, and her eyes were getting higher when she got married. Even so, you still welcome her with a smile as always and sincerely serve her as a sister. Miss, you are too good, this will make people bully you."
"Okay, don't say anymore." Gao Ran interrupted the maid faintly, and said, "Wangye has been away from home for three years and today is the first time he comes back. We must arrange things well. Wangye's carriage should be coming soon. Let me go to the second gate and wait."
Tao Mama and Ning Fu agreed, supported Gao Ran to walk towards Chui Hua Gate5. Tao Mama chattered as she walked: "Yan Wang has not return to capital for three years. When Wangye comes back and sees that the house is well organized, he will feel very fortunate to get such a smart daughter-in-law like miss. If this old slave can say, anyone under the the sun who has clear hands and eyes and who are not deceived by the prejudice of di and shu, they will like the third miss."
Without waiting for Gao Ran to speak, Ning Fu said quickly: "That's right! Shizi Consort is the reincarnation of a fairy, and no one dislikes her. It's just a pity that Wangye was delayed on the road and missed the marriage between Shizi and Shizi Consort"
Speaking of this Tao Mama was also very regretful. She was on Gao Ran's side so of course felt that Gao Ran was good everywhere. It was a great regret that the patriarch of Yan Wang Mansion failed to catch up with Gao Ran's wedding, but this regret was for not Gao Ran, but for Yan Wang Mansion.
Seeing that there was no one on the left or right, Tao mama quietly said to Gao Ran: "Shizi Consort, I heard that Wangye originally wanted to come back to attend the marriage of Shizi, and he left the troops to go alone for this purpose, alas while on the road the daughter of his previous subordinate was sick, which delayed Wangye's schedule."
Gao Ran originally felt that it was not appropriate to discuss Yan Wang in the mansion. If someone heard, they might think she was gossiping. But the wedding without the husband's parents was indeed a thorn in Gao Ran's heart. Now she seemed to hear the reason, Gao Ran was curious. She didn't stop Tao Mama, letting her continue to talk.
"Subordinate's daughter? Who is this and why is she in Wangye's convoy?"
"I don't know, I heard that she is an orphan. Her father died in order to save Wangye, so Wangye pulling her everywhere. It was spread in the capital some time ago, and it seems to be called... Oh yes, Marquis Zhongyong."
When Gao Ran heard this she had already lost interest. An orphan who lost both her parents and came to the capital to seek shelter in Yan Wang Mansion, a little white flower6 has enter the scene. Gao Ran just heard this and already imagined what kind of person was coming.
Gao Ran vowed to marry a rich second generation in her previous life, the wedding should also be very grand, and must overwhelm all her female classmates. Unfortunately, her dream of marrying a rich second generation had not realized before she had an accident. After transmigrating, she found that she became a Miss Perfect7, she was simply overjoyed. Gao Ran also secretly rejoiced that under the skin of a child was the heart of an adult.
Later, her vicious di mother died by disaster she brought to herself, and Gao Xi, who had robbed Gao Ran's marriage, also got her retributions. She could not get the favor of her husband, prematurely died to clear the position for her. Gao Ran was like all story heroines, her status as a shu daughter was only to sharpen her character. In the end, she married the most powerful husband, one with family background that surpassed all second generation of officials, which was much better than the rich second generation in her previous life.
Gao Ran was very satisfied with her counter-attack career. It was a small regret that the husband's parents did not attend the wedding. Gao Ran thought that Yan Wang cared about her shu daughter status, but now it seems that this was just an intro. An intro that leads to the upcoming arrival of little white flower.
What a cliché. After the male and female leads had gone through hardships together, they just got married, then came a woman who had lost both parents, and the ancestor that previously owed the woman a favor let her come in to live. Later this woman would likely to fell in love at first sight with Gu Cheng Yao, blinded by Yan Wang Mansion's rich and honor, under the name of returning the grace, she wished to be Gu Cheng Yao's concubine.
Thinking of this, Gao Ran's smile became gentler, but the light in her eyes was sharp and full of attacks.
1 Guqin is a plucked seven-strings Chinese musical instrument.↩
2 Gomoku or five-in-row is abstract strategic board game using go stones and go board.↩
3 Shu – born from concubines.↩
4 Di – born from official's wives.↩
5 The gate between inner and outer house.↩
6 Vicious women but act like weak women.↩
7 The original word is Baifumei, it's internet slang that means fair skinned, rich, and beautiful.↩
Chapter 10 Part 2: Shu Younger Sister
Gao Ran took many servant girls and grannies to wait at the Chui Hua Gate, Gao Ran was like the moon that were hold by many stars1, faintly became everyone's head, with noble young lady's posture and great style. She stood for a long time before the frame of Yan Wang's convoy slowly arrived. Many men who looked like members of the army surrounded the second carriage, escorting it carefully and vigilantly. The coachman unintentionally rushed into a small stone, and the carriage shook invisibly, the coachman was immediately glared by everyone.
The coachman hurriedly apologized to the inside. When Gao Ran saw this, the smile on her lips grew deeper, revealing a vague victory. After the carriage cautiously stopped, Zhou Mao Cheng knocked on the door and said, "Lin girl, we're here. Are you still uncomfortable?"
There was a slight noise in the carriage, a white hand opened the curtain, and a fair and delicate woman appeared in front of the crowd. Gao Ran looked at the one that had just arrived, unconcerned. Sure enough, what ability a poor family could have? This kind of person was not even worthy of her shoes, how could she compete with her?
Gao Ran just moved a step and was about to speak when she saw the woman jumped out of the carriage with the corner of her skirt, and then quickly turned back to help the other person.
The carriage's curtain was opened again, and another woman with a double bun hairstyle supporting a girl appeared in front of everyone. The people of the mansion that waited in the second gate saw the people coming and couldn't help but gasp with amazement.
When they saw the first woman who got off the carriage, many people were despised. This was the oil bottle2 that delayed Wangye's journey? That was it! However, in fact, this was just a maid. When the main character came out from the back and they saw Lin Wei Xi's face, many people were stunned, their mouths opened unconsciously.
Everyone had a heart for beauty, but to be called a beauty also divided into different opinions. Everyone has their own type. Some people preferred the pitiful kind, some liked the dignified and magnanimous kind, but the one who slowly got off the carriage, even the pickiest person couldn't say that her looks was bad.
This was one of a kind extremely good-looking, extremely beautiful, not only pretty, but gorgeous woman3. The people in the mansion looked a little dumbfounded, Gao Ran swept across Lin Wei Xi's face, body, down to the shoes, unconsciously frowning.
Lin Wei Xi was tortured by the journey, her whole body was haggard, and her state was extremely poor. If possible, Lin Wei Xi didn't want to appear weak in front of everyone in the Yan Wang Mansion, but her body didn't allow her. Lin Wei Xi felt tortured and lost her disposition. She gave up and stop bothering, let's make a living like this. Anyway, everyone in Yan Wang Mansion didn't know who she was.
Lin Wei Xi was assisted to get off the carriage by two maids. The escorting guards stared at Lin Wei Xi's movements with bated breath. When they saw her safely standing on the ground, they let out the tightly held breath. Lin Wei Xi drew close the shawl on her body, almost without delay noticed Gao Ran at first glance.
Oh, I haven't seen her for a few days, this shu younger sister has been reborn, and almost made her unrecognizable.
Gao Ran also happened to ran into Lin Wei Xi's line of sight. She and Lin Wei Xi looked at each other for a short while, and then she calmed down her unhappiness, smiled gently and walked a few steps, wanting to pull Lin Wei Xi's hand: "So this is the distinguished guest that father-in-law said in his letter. What's the girl called?"
Lin Wei Xi coldly avoided Gao Ran's hand, and said with an expressionless face: "My surname is Lin. Shizi Consort can call me Wei Xi."
It turned out to be Lin Wei Xi... Gao Ran taste the name in her heart, and then put on the posture of the hostess again, smiled broadly: "Miss Lin just came, I'm afraid she is still afraid of stranger. Younger sister, no need to be afraid, treat the mansion as your own home. If you have any needs, just tell me directly."
"Shizi Consort, my parents only have one daughter, I am afraid I can't be your younger sister." Lin Wei Xi's smile didn't changed, although there was smile in her eyes, but frost was hidden in her voice, "I don't have any siblings, and I'm not used to calling people brothers and sisters. You can call me by my name."
Dare to call her younger sister, where Gao Ran's face came from?
Again and again, Gao Ran couldn't hold back her face. She secretly sneered in her heart, sure enough this one came from a poor family. Petty from head to toe, not allowed to be seen in public. But the more it was so, the more enthusiast Gao Ran treated the other.
Zhou Mao Cheng was not surprised to hear Lin Wei Xi's words, he knew that no one could escape this girl's harsh words except for Wangye. But after all Zhou Mao Cheng knew that even though Lin Wei Xi's mouth was not merciful, her heart was good. He was afraid that Shizi Consort would make things difficult for Lin Wei Xi, so he quickly stepped forward and said: "Pay respect to Shizi Consort! Wangye originally want to send Lin girl back to the house first, but the palace called urgently, Wangye have to go to the Imperial Palace, so we are the one that send her back. This subordinate will go to the front yard to see Shizi. Lin girl is in poor health and is still sick from the road. Please Shizi Consort take care of it temporarily."
Although Zhou Mao Cheng was a rough person, but these people had follows Yan Wang closely, his speaking skills was also not lacking. His remarks seemed polite, but both inside and outside the words revealed that Yan Wang attached great importance to Lin Wei Xi. Finally the last sentence "Please Shizi Consort take care of it temporarily", you know the weight of this.
Gao Ran understood, and her heart became more and more unhappy. An orphan without a father or mother, wasn't it just that her face looks better, how could she compared to a distinguished and educated woman like her? Gao Ran secretly ridiculed these crude people for their lack of eyesight and ignorance, but still politely bid farewell to Zhou Mao Cheng and the others, and then took Lin Wei Xi into the house affectionately.
Gao Ran enquired about Lin Wei Xi's well-being along the way, the hostess's coy attitude was extremely excessive. But Lin Wei Xi had always cold and indifferent, reservedly holding the hand stove, and occasionally replied with a sentence or two. One could imagine how frustrated Gao Ran was. She accompanied Lin Wei Xi to walked Yan Wang Mansion's richly decorated winding corridor. Turning her head slightly, she could see Lin Wei Xi's delicate profile and long eyelashes. Gao Ran looked at Lin Wei Xi's profile and suddenly felt an extremely absurd feeling.
It felt like the person walking beside her was not Lin Wei Xi, who had lost her father and mother and went to the capital to seek shelter, but the one who had stepped on high cloud since she was a child, Gao Xi!
1 To group around the revered leader.↩
2 Derogatory term that basically means children that a widow brings when she remarried.↩
3 I didn't realize there are so many adjective for beautiful in Chinese and with different degree apparently.↩