Chapter 51 Part 1: Goddess
Zhao Qian suspected that he had heard it wrong, Lin Yong's daughter? Wasn't Lin Yong their comrade? Although he went to Yan Wang late, Zhao Qian had seen this natural strongman several times, and he was a potential seedling. Later, when Zhao Qian learned that Lin Yong had died to save Yan Wang, he sighed even more. But Lin Yong's status was still lower than Zhao Qian's. Why did Yan Wang marry his daughter? How he didn't know this?
Zhou Mao Cheng also felt that what Yan Wang done make the seniority in the family became awkward. He coughed and said, "Didn't Wangye asked for Lin Yong to be conferred as Marquis? After the war, Wangye went to Shunde Prefecture to send Lin Yong's remains to his hometown, and along the way he took Lin Yong's only daughter back to the capital to take care of her."
So by taking care it means become Yan Wangfei?
Zhao Qian said in his heart, fortunately Lin Yong doesn't know these things. This was a great development, even if this person was his commanding general, he was a little too gloomy. However, Zhao Qian's silent criticism stayed in his heart, and thinking about this marriage he was still very optimistic. Yan Wang himself must be willing with this second marriage, and Lin Yong's only concern before his death could also have a good home, it was really a win-win situation for everyone.
The only problem was that Lin Wei Xi was originally their junior, but now she became Yan Wang's wife, this seniority in the family was a bit confusing.
When Zhou Mao Cheng spoke, Gu Hui Yan didn't stop him. He didn't think it was something difficult for people to see. As for Zhou Mao Cheng's winking, Zhao Qian was taken aback... Well, Gu Hui Yan admitted that he was a little embarrassed. After talking about taking care of his subordinate's daughter, he initially said that he would find a husband for her, but in the end, she entered Yan Wang Mansion and never go out again. He really seemed to let Lin Yong down.
Yan Wang was newly married, these subordinates and old comrades-in-arms of course had to make jokes, and Gu Hui Yan, who had always set himself apart and aloof, actually let them joke around. Zhao Qian was surprised in his heart, as he thought married people were really different. This time, Yan Wang knew that he was wrong. In normal days, how could Gu Hui Yan let them make fun of him.
But joke aside, actually Zhao Qian was very pleased with this result, and even the corners of his eyes were a little sour. After years of goodbye, when they met again, the old friend was safe and sound, and there was also a sweet wife at his side, Zhao Qian sincerely wishes them well. Over the years Yan Wang had fought in the north and south and had been invincible. In the army, he was the god of war trusted and worshipped by everyone. In Yan Wang Mansion he was the pillar. In the court he was also the reassurance for the emperor and ministers, Zhao Qian and Zhou Mao Cheng served Gu Hui Yan with all their heart. However, such a person worthy of everyone's respect was actually didn't have good fortune in personal relationships, for many years he had been alone no matter what he do. Now he had someone to accompany him by his side. Not only Zhao Qian and Zhou Mao Cheng, but also the 100,000 Yan army, were happy for Yan Wang from the bottom of their heart, and also wish Yan Wangfei well, and wished that Wangfei could accompany Yan Wang forever.
The old friends reunited, and after teasing for a while, they slowly talked about the affairs of the court and the army. Zhao Qian was in the middle of reporting the border affairs, when he turned across the courtyard, suddenly saw a woman in magnificent clothing surrounded by beautiful people on the opposite side. Before Zhao Qian could react, he saw Gu Hui Yan abandon the few people who were talking and walked quickly in that direction.
Halfway through Zhao Qian's sentence, even his mouth hasn't closed up, Yan Wang had already left. This was unprecedented in the past ten years and simply unimaginable. Zhao Qian was stunned, Zhou Mao Cheng understood, and said to him: "That's Yan Wangfei." After saying that, Zhou Mao Cheng still pointedly added: "This time is different from the past, you understand right?"
Zhao Qian also showed an understanding smile. Newly married, he also had family and children, he understands very well. Out of respect, Zhao Qian never looked in the direction of Yan Wangfei. Even though Lin shi previously was his daughter generation, but now she was the Yan Wangfei. That's why he should use his life to honor this woman, so even if he was dying from curiosity, Zhao Qian didn't glance in that direction.
However, he did not expect that after a while, Gu Hui Yan came back, this time there was an extremely bright woman standing beside him. The woman's skin was fair and soft, the jade ornaments were jingling, and her beautiful hair dotted with stars-like pearls. However, no amount of precious jewelry could compete with her. She smiled, nodded to Zhou Mao Cheng and the others, gently bowed to salute them: "Uncle Zhou, General Zhao Qian."
Zhou Mao Cheng and Zhao Qian hurriedly stop her. She was Yan Wangfei, they couldn't afford Lin Wei Xi's bowing. Zhou Mao Cheng's old face was a little red. He quickly glanced at Gu Hui Yan and said: "This humble official dare not accept this kind of call by Wangfei."
Lin Wei Xi called him "Uncle Zhou", then what about him and Yan Wang? Zhou Mao Cheng did not have such a long life to take advantage of Yan Wang.
Of course Zhou Mao Cheng and Zhao Qian did not dare to go to Lin Wei Xi. After they stretched out their hands, Lin Wei Xi also stood up, only done half the salutation. As a junior, it was no problem for her to bow down to these two people, but at the same time she was also Yan Wangfei. Today, she deliberately came to the outer courtyard to greet Gu Hui Yan. She didn't expect to meet Lin Yong's former comrade-in-arms and commanding officer on the way. They were also the capable subordinate of Yan Wang, and Lin Wei Xi had to come and greet these two people.
To avoid arousing suspicion, Zhao Qian didn't dare to look at Yan Wangfei too much, but even so this dazzling appearance made one feels dizzy. For a while, he didn't know whether to lament how Lin Yong gave birth to such a beautiful daughter, or lament that Yan Wang was really cunning. After Lin Wei Xi greeted the two people out of courtesy, she was after all the womenfolk of Yan Wang so she prepared to take her leave after a while. Lin Wei Xi glanced at Gu Hui Yan and asked tentatively, "Wangye?"
Looking at it seems like Gu Hui Yan and these two still had something to discuss. Lin Wei Xi looked at Gu Hui Yan inquiringly. Zhou Mao Cheng and Zhao Qian were not blind. Looking at it of course he had quite the insight, said: "I have an appointment with Old Zhao to go outside for a drink, it's no good to keep brothers waiting for long, I will take my leave first. Please Wangye and Wangfei forgive this one."
Gu Hui Yan also conveniently said: "It is not safe for you to walk alone, I will accompany you back."
Gu Hui Yan's face was not redden nor skip a beat when he easily abandon Zhao Qian and others who were still talking, and took Lin Wei Xi to the inner house. After the people gradually walked away, Zhao Qian dared to joke around with Zhou Mao Cheng: "I think this is the first. I can always report to Yan Wang whenever I have something. It seems that I don't understand the customs anymore, I pulled Yan Wang to talk for a long time, and it actually delay the newly-wed business."
Zhou Mao Cheng laughed: "You can get used to it if you stay in Yan Wang Mansion for a few more days."
Now that Gu Hui Yan was not there, the two of them had to talk a lot behind Yan Wang's back. Zhou Mao Cheng knew the detail of this matter, so he simply told Zhao Qian from the start when they went to Shunde Prefecture to deliver the skeleton. The two people secretly gossiped a lot, until they finally looked at each other laughing, perfectly satisfied.
Yan Wang's personal tidbits, this was rare.
TN: GHY's subordinates are so sweet!
Chapter 51 Part 2: Goddess
Lin Wei Xi and Gu Hui Yan were walking on the ring corridor. Today, the sky was gray again, when they were only halfway, there was snow again.
"Wangye, you don't have to go to the government office from today? You don't have to get up early to go to court tomorrow?"
"Yes."
"Really?" Lin Wei Xi was very suspicious. Gu Hui Yan was very busy every day. Even Lin Wei Xi could only see him after dark, and before she woke up the next day, Gu Hui Yan already went out again. Suddenly learning that Gu Hui Yan would stay in the mansion from today to the fifteenth next year, Lin Wei Xi was very skeptical, always suspicious that Yan Wang would be called away in the next moment.
Gu Hui Yan laughed and said, "Of course it's true. These few days I'm busy with outside affairs and neglect the family affairs, now I can accompany you properly in these few days."
Although Lin Wei Xi did not completely believe it, there was already a smile in her eyes. It had just snowed last night, although the path had been cleared, but there was still a thick layer of snow in the woodland. A gust of wind blew, and a drop of snow fell on Lin Wei Xi's forehead. Lin Wei Xi reached out her hand, and looked up at the white sky: "It's snowing."
Gu Hui Yan followed in looking out and then stretched out his hand to tighten the cloak around Lin Wei Xi's neck: "The wind is strong outside, be careful of the cold."
Lin Wei Xi glared at Gu Hui Yan unconvincedly: "I'm not a kid, how come I can't even do this kind of thing? Don't always treat me like a kid."
Gu Hui Yan smiled and fastened her laces, and said, "All right."
Lin Wei Xi looked outwards, her eyes were full of crystal clear snow. Just so happened in that place there were steps to go down, and could go straight to the snow outside. Lin Wei Xi simply abandoned the maids and Gu Hui Yan, and ran to the spotless snow, while stepping on the snow she made a lot of footprints. She turned around and looked at Gu Hui Yan with a smile: "Wangye, look, it's snowing!"
Gu Hui Yan stood on the dark wood winding corridor, watching Lin Wei Xi's actions with a smile. Still said that she was not a child, already an adult, yet childishly stepped on the snow. Suddenly Gu Hui Yan's eyes moved. He was about to say something, but it was too late. Perhaps because it couldn't bear a heavy load, or perhaps because it was startled by Lin Wei Xi's voice, a bent pine branch shook and suddenly bounced back, shaking the soft white snow on the tree below, just happened to hit Lin Wei Xi's head.
Lin Wei Xi was caught off guard by the pile of snow dropped down on her head. She didn't wear a hood because it was inconvenient. Now the fresh snow happened to fell into her neck. It was extremely cold when the snow fell on the back of her neck. Lin Wei Xi said "Ah" and hurriedly shook the snow on her head.
The people in the corridor did not dare to laugh, but Gu Hui Yan couldn't help but laughed lightly. He walked to Lin Wei Xi, and while chuckling, he brushed the snowflakes off her head: "And you said that you are not a child, what about now?"
Lin Wei Xi was irritated all over her body. She quickly shook off the loose snow on the back collar. When she heard Gu Hui Yan's words, she was really angry and aggrieved: "How could I know this kind of thing will happened, by chance a pile of snow fell down and it fell on my head."
Gu Hui Yan couldn't help but laugh again, it was rare for him to be so open, and his eyes were filled with undisguised smiles. He lowered his head slightly and carefully brushed away pieces of snow on Lin Wei Xi's black hair.
Wan Xing and Wan Yue were very perceptive. They stepped forward and handed Lin Wei Xi a new hand stove, and then retreated, even stopping the other maids, not allowing them to disturb Wangye and Wangfei. Gu Hui Yan lowered his eyes slightly and patted the snow on Lin Wei Xi's body. From the side, still could see the smile on his face. Lin Wei Xi hugged the stove, her cheeks were red, her expression was not very happy.
Lin Wei Xi's neck was surrounded by fluffy white hairs, which made her skin looks translucent and her facial features brilliant. When she stood among the flawless snow and the black branches dripping water, she became more stunning and pure, like a goddess who had fallen into the world. And Gu Hui Yan's face was very handsome, although he was smiling, but the action of patting the snow on the woman was particularly delicate and gentle. Such a picture reflected in the eyes, and anyone who saw it had to praise it as immortal couple.
Gu Cheng Yao stood at the corner of another corridor and came to see this scene. It was the first time he saw Lin Wei Xi with such vivid expression, and also the first time he saw his father with gentle eyes. The two people looked very well matched, his footsteps could not help but stop. For a while he didn't know whether he should brazenly walk out like it was nothing, or he should pretend not to see and retreat.
Gu Cheng Yao didn't hesitate for long. Wan Yue, who was on the opposite side had good eyes, already seen him: "Shizi?"
Lin Wei Xi and Gu Hui Yan both raised their head and looked in this direction. Gu Cheng Yao had no choice but to take two steps forward, completely exposed to everyone's sight: "Father, mother."
Gu Hui Yan saw that it was Gu Cheng Yao, just nodded indifferently, and then continued to lower his head to clean the snow on Lin Wei Xi's collar. The smile on Lin Wei Xi's face quickly disappeared. She looked dignified and alienated, nodded to Gu Cheng Yao: "Shizi."
As if only in a flash, Lin Wei Xi was restored from the lively beauty to an aloof, dignified and indifferent stepmother. Gu Cheng Yao didn't know what he was feeling in his heart or why. His eyes accurately captured many details. For example, his father's one hand was picking the snow on Lin Wei Xi's head, and the other hand still fell on Lin Wei Xi's waist. The distance between the two of them was extremely close, and Lin Wei Xi was very calm at this level of touch, without any discomfort.
Gu Cheng Yao's eyes turned around unobtrusively. Lin Wei Xi originally greeted Gu Cheng Yao very formally, and suddenly felt a pain on the top of her head. She covered her hair and raised her head painfully to complain: "Wangye, you just grabbed my hair!"
"Really? I didn't pay attention." Gu Hui Yan withdrew his hand calmly, as if it was a momentary mistake. He looked at Lin Wei Xi's watery eyes that was caused by the pain, and felt a little uncomfortable. He rubbed the place where Lin Wei Xi was pulled, and asked in a low voice, "Does it hurt?"
TN: Did GHY pulled LWX's hair because she greeted GCY?! The smell of vinegar is particularly strong...
Chapter 52 Part 1: Shu Younger Brother
Gu Hui Yan leaned over and asked in a low voice, Lin Wei Xi wrinkled her nose, and said: "It's all right."
The pulling was over, otherwise, what else could she done?
Gu Cheng Yao vaguely felt something. He took a step back and lowered his head and said, "This son has not completed his homework, so I won't disturb father and mother to appreciate the snow. Please excuse this son."
Gu Hui Yan nodded and said, "Go ahead, the spring examination is coming. It's important to prepare for the preliminary round. Don't be distracted by the clamoring of these few days. Understand?"
"I understand, thanking father for his teaching." After Gu Cheng Yao responded, he raised his head and glanced at Lin Wei Xi, cupped his hand to salute, and turned away.
Gu Hui Yan was teaching his son, Lin Wei Xi stood aside and listened. After Gu Cheng Yao turned around and walked on the same road, Lin Wei Xi remembered something and asked suspiciously: "What Shizi originally intend to do? He just go back like that?"
"Perhaps just sitting in the study room feel stuffy, so he came out to get some air." Gu Hui Yan glanced at Lin Wei Xi and said, "The weather is cold these days, don't let your temper run off. Be careful of catching cold."
"No, I'm not such an unruly person." Lin Wei Xi mumbled, too lazy to care about Gu Cheng Yao. Anyway, how Gu Cheng Yao was had nothing to do with her, she handed over the management of Qingsong Garden to the dowry servant left by Wangfei Shen, her attitude of not interfering in the matter of Shizi was very obvious. Whatever happened in Gu Cheng Yao's courtyard was their own business, and she this succeeding Wangfei had nothing to do with it.
As for whether Gao Ran and Bu Mama were like the east wind overwhelmed the west wind or the west wind overwhelmed the east wind, it depends on the methods of these two people. Lin Wei Xi would just stay aside and watch the excitement.
After returning to Jingcheng Courtyard, Lin Wei Xi first ordered the kitchen to prepare the foods, and then went to the inner room to change her snow-soaked clothing. That snow ball was just happened to fall on Lin Wei Xi. The soaked hair were fine, but the snow that fell on the collar were troublesome. The snow was already cold, and when it fell on the neck, it froze for a while, and then it was steamed into snow water by the body temperature. Now it all seeped into Lin Wei Xi's back. She was not only uncomfortable, but also easy to catch cold.
Lin Wei Xi could only untie her hair and changed into a new, dry and warm clothes, and then casually rolled her hair up into a low bun and went outside to dine with Gu Hui Yan. Seeing Lin Wei Xi coming out, Gu Hui Yan first reached out to check the temperature of her forehead, and found that she did not have a fever, so he said at ease: "Fortunately, there is no fever. Drink the ginger tea first."
Lin Wei Xi looked at the ginger tea, and before she speaks anything, Gu Hui Yan could see her thoughts and said, "No quibble, you have to drink it. Your body is delicate. Today walking in the snow for so long, there is also snow in your clothes. If not careful now, what should we do if you get fever tomorrow?"
Well, Lin Wei Xi also knew that her current health was not good, couldn't be like in the past. She could only hold the tea cup and drink the hot ginger tea bit by bit. Lin Wei Xi stared at the cup in her hand intently. The ginger tea's steam rise up, when encountered the air it condensed into white water mist, and it hung on Lin Wei Xi's eyelashes, concentrated into fine water droplets.
Gu Hui Yan watched for a long time, finally couldn't help but reached out to touch Lin Wei Xi's long eyelashes. Lin Wei Xi's eyelashes were extremely long, and the tail ends tilted up neatly. Now with the water-drops hanging on it, it wouldn't fall off, looking very delicate and pitiful. Gu Hui Yan's finger touched the outermost eyelashes. Lin Wei Xi was puzzled and raised her head to question: "What's wrong?"
Gu Hui Yan shook his head and smiled, but did not reply. Lin Wei Xi with great difficulty finished the drink, took the kerchief from Wan Xing's hand, and gently wiped the water stains on her lips. When Gu Hui Yan saw that she had tidy up, he let people passed on the meal.
Although it was annual leave from the twenty-third of the twelfth month to the seventeenth of the first month, Gu Hui Yan had a different status. He was both the commander of 100,000 army and the auxiliary minister of the court. Even if he did not go out, there were many things that come to him. Not to mention the New Year was approaching, so there were many people walking through the gate. After Gu Hui Yan spent lunch with Lin Wei Xi, he didn't sit for long and then went to the front to deal with some business.
After Gu Hui Yan left, Lin Wei Xi had to do her own thing. These past few days, it was not only Gu Hui Yan who was busy, she, the Yan Wangfei, was also up to her neck busy. Many people came to visit before the end of the year, and the daily gifts in the gatehouse were piled up. At the end of the year, officials from other provinces had to go to the capital to report on their duties. Many of these gifts were sent by officials from various provinces. Although most people couldn't even enter the mansion, Lin Wei Xi couldn't let these gifts stay idly by. If there was nothing to asked, who would actually give gifts? Especially Yan Wang's status was delicate now. It was not a good thing for an emperor's uncle, who leads the troops to save the country, to be too conspicuous. Lin Wei Xi was not a shallow-eyed person. She didn't care about the silver sent from outside, she cared more about the stability and longevity of Yan Wang Mansion.
Therefore, these gifts were handled with particular care. If they were too precious, it shouldn't be accepted, and some gifts from the household that had friendly relations also could not be casually accepted. Lin Wei Xi must prepare a suitable and slightly more precious gift in return, with a group of servants to deliver to the other side's house. In this way, it was extremely exhausting to process the gift list alone every day.
Lin Wei Xi was considering the return gift for the capital magistrate when she suddenly heard an announcement from the outside. A maid with two buns hairstyle stood outside the curtain and said, "Wangfei, Duke Yingguo Mansion old madam and lady are here."
"Duke Yingguo Mansion?" Lin Wei Xi was stunned when she heard the name. She quickly recovered and asked, "I didn't receive the calling card from Duke Yingguo Mansion yesterday. Did the gatekeeper miss it?"
"It's not that the gatekeeper missed it." The maid stepped forward and handed over the calling card and said, "This is the card from Duke Yingguo Mansion."
Lin Wei Xi asked Wan Xing to pick up the calling card. After she got it, Lin Wei Xi knew what was going on without having to read it.
Chapter 52 Part 2: Shu Younger Brother
A household who had some status, whether visiting relatives or friends, always send a calling card to the other side's gate one or two days in advance. First, it was to respect the host and let the host have time to prepare. Second, it was also to show their etiquette. Each family's calling card was carefully prepared, and an experienced housewife could guess which household it was by just looking at the card. However, to not say a word in advance and went directly to the door on the same day, actually there were very few people who would do that. Even if a married women returned to her maiden house, she would send someone back to say something in advance, and she would never come directly.
It was undoubtedly a bit rude of Duke Yingguo Mansion to do this. If the present mistress was Gao Ran, then she would not say anything. It was her own family, naturally more relax. But now the mistress was Lin Wei Xi, Gao Ran's mother-in-law, Duke Yingguo Mansion dared to be so impolite with their in-laws, if it weren't for them going insane, then it must be because something happened suddenly, too anxious to pay attention.
Duke Yingguo Mansion in any case was a duke mansion, and Duke Yingguo madam unlikely to not even understand this social etiquette. So the duke mansion done this probably due to their good daughter-in-law.
Lin Wei Xi's heart was discerning, but still pretended to be unaware, she closed the calling card and said, "Quickly invite the duke madam to the living room. Wan Yue, send tea to the madam and lady."
Lin Wei Xi stood up and went to the inner room to change clothes. She had just eaten with Gu Hui Yan, they were all dressed for comfort, but it was not suitable to meet guests. Lin Wei Xi didn't let anyone re-comb her hair, merely changed her makeup and clothes that would be more appropriate to see the guests, and then walked slowly to the living room.
The Duke Yingguo Mansion's people came here without notice. Since they didn't respect her as the master of the house, Lin Wei Xi didn't need to care too much about her hospitality. It would be no problem to let the guests wait for a while.
The people of Duke Yingguo Mansion had finished drinking two cups of tea, it could be regarded as waiting for Lin Wei Xi, who was arrive late. Hearing "Greetings Wangfei" one after another coming from outside the partition, the Duke Yingguo madam knew that it was Lin Wei Xi who came, inside couldn't help but snorted.
When Lin Wei Xi arrived, everyone in the room stood up to greet Lin Wei Xi, but Duke Yingguo madam sat in the same position calmly, didn't intent to get up. Seeing Lin Wei Xi coming in, Duke Yingguo madam put the tea cup on the table with a solemn face, her expression was indifferent and aloof: "Your Highness Yan Wangfei, this old body should welcome you, but this old body's legs and feet are inconvenience, afraid it will be difficult to greet Wangfei."
Duke Yingguo madam was already sixty years old. She was old and used her seniority to not give face to Lin Wei Xi. These young people also couldn't say anything. Of course Lin Wei Xi knew what Duke Yingguo madam said just now was to mock her as the hostess that came late. Lin Wei Xi didn't care, only smiled and sat on the opposite side of Duke Yingguo madam, and immediately showed the momentum of sitting on an equal level with her: "The old madam is too polite. You personally brought the madams and ladies of the Duke Yingguo Mansion to Yan Wang Mansion. I as the junior was supposed to welcome you at the second gate. However, your mansion come at an unfortunate time. I am in the middle of dressing up and changing clothes. Can only temporarily set it aside, let you and Gao family's lady wait for a while. The old madam and lady won't blame me right?"
Duke Yingguo old madam were dissatisfied that Lin Wei Xi had kept them waiting for a long time, and Lin Wei Xi also could throw the fact that the Duke Yingguo Mansion came without notice. Who made Duke Yingguo Mansion acted rude first? Duke Yingguo old madam was so faceless that they could only take a secret sigh and endure the breath.
After they were seated, Lin Wei Xi looked at the Gao family's womenfolk whom she was once very familiar with, but now should be the first time she met them officially. Her eyes swept across the crowd and suddenly saw a familiar figure. Lin Wei Xi's eyes darkened, but she still smiled and asked, "Old madam, who is this?"
The old madam looked behind her, only then realized she hadn't introduced them to Lin Wei Xi. Although they had met at the palace banquet before, but at that time Lin Wei Xi's status was still an orphan. How could Duke Yingguo old madam with eyes higher than the sky looked to this kind of person? Later, Lin Wei Xi and Yan Wang got married, and Duke Yingguo Mansion also came to participate at the wedding banquet, but mixed with a bunch of guests, how could the bride Lin Wei Xi remember. So strictly speaking, Lin Wei Xi was still not too familiar with Gao family's people.
Duke Yingguo old madam could only let her daughter-in-law and grandson came forward and said: "This is my second daughter-in-law, this is my eldest grandson. Are you still not coming to greet Wangfei?"
Gao second lady stepped forward and gave Lin Wei Xi a salutation. Lin Wei Xi looked at her former aunt, smiled and asked Wan Xing and Wan Yue to help her up. She said: "Second lady is too polite, I am young, and I can't receive your salutation."
Gao second lady said: "Yan Wangfei is too modest. Although you are young, you are also a first-grade Wangfei on the imperial family tree. Although I rely on the children marriage to become the same generation as you, I should still bow to you according to the etiquette."
Gao Ran was the niece of Gao second lady, and Lin Wei Xi was Gao Ran's mother-in-law. From this perspective, Lin Wei Xi and this second lady were indeed the same generation. However, the second son of the Gao family, Lin Wei Xi's former second uncle, has not gained fame, but because the family donation he became an idle a fifth-grade official. From the perspective of rank, the second lady dare not really regard herself as Lin Wei Xi's peers. The salutation still need to be done.
Lin Wei Xi smiled, did not say much, but politely let the maid took a bench for Gao second lady to sit. After Gao second lady sat down, another person came forward and kowtowed to Lin Wei Xi: "Pay respects Yan Wangfei."
Lin Wei Xi's smile was still dignified and fitting, but her fingers under her wide sleeves were tightly clenched. Gao second lady thought that Lin Wei Xi didn't know who was that, while sat on the side she gave an introduction: "This is the only son of our Duke Yingguo Mansion Shizi's family. Although he is a shu-born, however accounted as the eldest grandson. He is also very bright and intelligent. Chen boy come closer, let Wangfei take a look."
Lin Wei Xi's eyes turned cold, how could she not know this person? Gao Chen, her former shu younger brother and Gao Ran's younger brother from the same mother, also the child who indirectly killed Wei shi back then.
Who could be become the Duke Yingguo in the future.
Chapter 53 Part 1: Disciplined
Gao Chen obeyed the orders of his elders and stepped forward to kowtow to Lin Wei Xi. Kowtowing was considered a very formal etiquette, and only the elders and high-ranking elders could afford it. In the previous life, although Lin Wei Xi was the eldest sister, but she was the same generation as Gao Chen, she could not afford a kowtow. But now, Lin Wei Xi was sitting steadily, watching Gao Chen knock his head strongly three times.
Her eyes were fixed on Gao Chen's movements, there seemed to be a dark vortex deep in her eyes. After Gao Chen knocked his head, he hadn't heard the voice calling him to get up for a long time. Gao Chen was puzzled. He still kept the kowtow posture and didn't dare to get up. Gao second lady was originally smiling, but she was a little surprised when she saw this. Isn't it the first time Yan Wangfei has seen Gao Chen? Where did Gao Chen being inappropriate? Why does the Wangfei look at him like this?
After a short period of stiffness, Wan Yue gently called Lin Wei Xi from behind: "Wangfei?"
Lin Wei Xi returned to her senses, lowered her eyes, and indifferently glanced at the boy who had almost his whole body attached to the ground, and said without joy or anger, "Get up."
Lin Wei Xi's voice was not harsh, but also didn't show any like. When Gao Chen came today, his mother and his wet nurse asked him to perform well, and it would be best if he get the favor of Yan Wangfei.
Han shi's daughter was the daughter-in-law under Lin Wei Xi's name, and in the future her son might have to rely on Yan Wang to get official position and even the title. Of course, she did not dare to offend Lin Wei Xi, and even hoped to please this young, rumored to be very favored by Yan Wang, consort. Han shi's original intention was very good. A noble little boy like Gao Chen had been raised well since childhood, white and tender, with red lips and white teeth. Which madam didn't like it? Moreover, Lin Wei Xi had not given birth yet, so she must like this kind cheerful boy the most, so Han shi privately thought that as long as Gao Chen didn't make some indecent or annoying behaviors, Lin Wei Xi had no reason to dislike Gao Chen.
Before Gao Chen went out, his mother told him what he should and should not do, and on the journey he was told again by his grandmother and aunt. He also knew that the madam he would meet today was very unusual, so he was very careful along the way. After seeing Lin Wei Xi, Gao Chen was shocked. This was the madam he should cautiously fawning on? She was so young, she looked like his sister's generation.
But no matter what Gao Chen thought, he dared not show it. Instead, he showed his usual style of pleasing his grandmother and father. His kowtow and paying respect was natural and yet childish and cute, ensuring that everyone would smile and praise when they saw him. In the past, this was how he won the rewards from the madams who came to the Duke Mansion, but today, his forehead had been knocked on the floor for a long time, and he didn't see the honorable Wangfei speaking. Gao Chen didn't dare to raise his head, and could only maintain his original posture, his hands and face were firmly on the ground. Inside the room the subtle fragrance were floating, the beautiful and radiant young Wangfei sat tall, and he knelt thoughtfully on the ground, Gao Chen suddenly felt a sense of humbleness.
Unknown how long, it was probably not that long, but for Gao Chen it seemed to be a lifetime. Lin Wei Xi's pleasant to hear voice that was like golden jade flowing water sounded, the end of her words casually enticing: "Get up."
Only then did Gao Chen dared to get up from the ground carefully. This short period of time, it made Gao Chen respected and feared the brilliance Wangfei in front of him. He didn't even dare to look directly. He realized once again that he was just a shu-born, and compared with such a noble lady, he was just cloud of mud and he was ashamed of himself.
Before going out, Han shi had specially asked Gao Chen to respect and pleased the Wangfei no matter what his grandmother said. This principle was easy to understand. How could their Duke Mansion be compared with Yan Wang, Gao Xi with her noble status to marry Gu Cheng Yao was considered marry high, although it was then replaced by Gao Ran, but it was still a younger generation. Now the Duke Mansion was going to see Gao Ran's mother-in-law, the honorable Yan Wangfei, how could Han shi and Duke Yingguo Shizi dare to be scornful. But after all, this time they went to support Gao Ran. The maiden's family trump card had to be taken out, so before going out, everyone in the Duke Yingguo Mansion had reached a consensus. Duke Yingguo Madam would play the black face, Guo second lady would play the white face, and then Gao Chen, this child would become the mediator. Yan Wangfei in front of the child's innocence should be easier to talk to.
But before the people of Duke Yingguo Mansion went out they thought very thoroughly, never expected that when they came to Yan Wang Mansion, Lin Wei Xi would not even buy Gao Chen's act. Duke Yingguo madam and the second daughter-in-law looked at each other, both saw the surprise and embarrassment in each other's eyes.
The buffer to reconcile from the middle was gone. Duke Yingguo old madam who should play the black-face spoke with a little confidence. She tried her best to tighten up and took out the seniority's card: "Yan Wangfei, the juniors from Duke Yingguo Mansion are naughty. Let you laugh."
Lin Wei Xi smiled when she heard the words, and sure enough, this came. She leaned back, slanted her elbows on the armrests, and lifted the tea cover with the other hand, with a casual voice said: "Duke Yingguo Mansion is crouching tiger, hidden dragon (TN: remember this movie?), the old madam's words is too modest. I still haven't ask the old madam. The old madam took your daughter-in-law and grandson personally to the gate of Yan Wang Mansion actually why?"
Lin Wei Xi had an indifferent and leisurely posture, but their side had been tensely waited, ready to fight. Duke Yingguo Madam and second lady frowned, not satisfied with Lin Wei Xi's completely indifferent attitude, was she looking down at them?
"This old body supporting this old bone to come to the door in person, naturally have a purpose. I just don't know, where is that unworthy third girl of our family? Her grandma and aunt come, and she as a junior, didn't come out to greet us?"
"Oh, old madam is asking about Shizi Consort." Lin Wei Xi still leaned lazily on the armchair, and said casually, "Shizi Consort is still copying books in the Buddhist hall. From the end of last month, it was already more than twenty days, Shizi Consort still haven't finish copying, so she can't come out to see the old madam. It's also my fault as the mother-in-law. I didn't teach her well earlier, she couldn't even copy a few roll of Book of Filial Piety. If old madam miss Shizi Consort, you might as well wait a moment, and when she finishes copying, I will ask her to come over?"
Duke Yingguo madam was choked. When a woman married a husband, the responsibility of teaching her was transferred from the mother to the mother-in-law. The mother-in-law naturally has the power to discipline the daughter-in-law, and sometimes even the biological mother couldn't talk too much. Lin Wei Xi disciplined Gao Ran was just and righteous, but Lin Wei Xi said that Gao Ran's rules were not good, and even the Book of Filial Piety were not copied properly, Duke Yingguo old madam as the maiden family was very ashamed. The label of filial piety was really crushing to death. The married daughter was not taught well, and was rejected by her in-laws as incompetent or even unfilial. Even her maiden family would be ashamed.
Duke Yingguo old madam also a mother-in-law herself, and she couldn't be said to be kind to her daughter-in-law, but changed it to her granddaughter the old madam was very unhappy.
Chapter 53 Part 2: Disciplined
Not long ago, the Duke Yingguo Mansion received a message from Gao Ran. Gao Ran entrusted people to send the message, saying that she was disliked by her mother-in-law and was locked in a cold Buddhist hall to copy books during the New Year. The day she would be let out was far away. When the people in the Shizi's courtyard saw her absence, some of them were already thinking about climbing the bed.
The greatest reliance of Duke Yingguo Mansion was that Gao Ran, as Shizi Consort, was very much loved by Shizi. Although Gao Ran was a shu daughter, as long as she could bring benefits to the Duke mansion, whether di or shu it didn't matter. Gu Cheng Yao's dedication to Gao Ran had been seen by the whole Duke Yingguo Mansion, but everything better be safe than sorry. If when Gao Ran was absent, there were other women who climb the bed and took the opportunity to snatch away Shizi's affection. How could that be good? Once Gao Ran fell out of favor, the marriage of the two mansion returned to Gao Xi's time, and in jeopardy. Gao Ran's status was not as high as Gao Xi. Without the backing of Grand Princess Shou Kang, the relationship between the Duke Yingguo Mansion and Yan Wang Mansion would only be more fragile.
The whole family of Duke Yingguo Mansion looked forward to Gao Ran giving birth to her son as soon as possible, it took a long time to catch Gu Hui Yan this big ship. Now they heard that Gao Ran was treated harshly by her mother-in-law, and there was a danger of falling out of favor. Duke Yingguo old madam immediately panicked. She didn't care about her face and identity, and immediately set up a carriage. She personally brought people to demand an explanation for Gao Ran.
Duke Yingguo old madam gestured to the people below, Gao second lady understood and let the maid went outside with Gao Chen. When there were no children in the house, the old madam's words could be blunter: "Wangfei, although our family's third girl was naughty and mischievous when she was in her maiden house, but her temperament is not the one who doesn't know what's importance, and she will not do anything unfilial. Saying that the third girl was not filial, and she was also punished to copy the Book of Filial Piety in the Buddhist hall. I wonder if there a reason for this?"
Lin Wei Xi chuckled lightly, and straightened up from the back of the chair, her eyes gleaming, the waves of her eyes carried an unspeakable meaning of ice and snow: "I said why the old madam didn't even send the calling card, suddenly took people to come to the door, so you are here to inquire about the crime. Alright then, although this is the family affair of our Yan Wang Mansion, but since the girls from your Duke mansion can not be punished, then I have to take the family skeleton outside. The third girl of your mansion was punished because she contradicted Yan Wang in front of everyone, and suspected to criticize Wangye for being unfair. I know that I am a step-in-law, everything I do will make people suspicious. But Shizi Consort in front of the crowd contradicted Yan Wang, old madam do you think she should be punished or not? I understand that she is a womenfolk, afraid that she hasn't even scratched a skin at home. She was exempt from family law, only punished to copy books in the Buddhist hall, ponder over her mistakes behind close door, and also conveniently meditate. I didn't think that twenty days have passed, and Shizi Consort's Book of Filial Piety has only been copied less than half, but also her maiden family came to ask for redress."
The Duke Yingguo old madam and Gao second lady were shocked when they heard that Gao Ran was punished for offending Yan Wang. After listening to Lin Wei Xi's entire story later, they became more and more frightened and dreadful. Beside the shock there was also a wave of anger. Gao Ran dared to confront Yan Wang? Dared to question the unfairness of Yan Wang? Oh my God, that's Yan Wang, even the emperor didn't dare to say such things to Yan Wang, how could she!
Lin Wei Xi looked at her former grandmother and second aunt's face full of regret and anger mingled with ugly expressions, sneered in her heart, and wanted to stand up: "Since the girl from the Duke Mansion can't be punished, then I will call Shizi Consort out. I am young and it's difficult to convince the public. Today, I learn that if a daughter-in-law contradicted her husband's parents, then her maiden family can be drag down and come over aggressively to ask about the crime. Since the old madam and lady Gao did not allow me to punish Shizi Consort, then said it earlier, saved me from good intention of disciplining her, and also from the old lady who came to the house, point her finger to the nose to scold, saying that I am a wicked mother-in-law who treated her daughter-in-law harshly."
"Wangfei!" Everyone immediately step forward to block. The Duke Yingguo old madam was not moving due to her seniority, but Gao second lady had no scruples. She stepped forward and grabbed Lin Wei Xi's arm. Lin Wei Xi was about to go out but was caught by Gao second lady to tightly stopped: "Wangfei, it is our fault. Hurriedly come over after hearing only a few words from the people below, but actually it was the girl who done something wrong. Wangfei, you are the third girl's mother-in-law, when she hasn't married, she will be disciplined by her mother. After she is out of the boudoir, it will refer to Wangfei to teach her! Our old madam spoke in a hurry, but she didn't mean to blame Wangfei. How do you want to discipline the third girl, we her maiden family will not have any objections."
Lin Wei Xi smiled. Although her arms were held by Gao second lady, the expression on her face was still ridiculing, "I don't dare. I am about the same age as Shizi Consort, and I have never been to the capital before, suddenly became Shizi Consort's mother. If I'm the maiden family of Shizi Consort, I will also dissatisfied. The old madam and second lady thought like this I can understand. I will call Shizi Consort immediately, how Shizi Consort in the future, it will follow the old madam and Guo second lady's instructions, I shouldn't control it anymore."
"Oh, Wangfei, what are you talking about?" Guo second lady couldn't afford to be embarrass, hurriedly bent over and gave up her old face for more than 30 years to a young girl who was about the same age as her daughter and paid her kind words: "Wangfei, we were wrong just now, and we wrongly blamed Wangfei. Although Wangfei is young, the rules of doing things are praised by the Empress Dowager. This month, Yan Wang mansion's festival gift moved about, which one was not from the hand of Wangfei. There is no household in the capital that did not praise. We have never underestimated Wangfei's young age, let alone look down on you because Wangfei just arrived. Of course, Wangfei is justified in doing things. You will never punish the third girl out of nothing. We will leave the third girl for you to teach. Our Duke Mansion has put a hundred hearts on it."
Lin Wei Xi was pulled by a bunch of people, so she could only stop her movements and no longer show the momentum of going out, but her expression was still cold and asked: "If that is the case, what will I assign to Shizi Consort in the future..."
Gao second lady vowed: "You can punish her, our Duke Yingguo mansion will not object. This time we were deceived by the slaves, and actually misunderstood Wangfei. This kind of mishap will never happen again in the future."
Gao second lady puts such words in front of everyone, and in the future she would definitely have no face to point out their mother-in-law and daughter-in-law's affairs. In the future, as long as it wasn't for Lin Wei Xi's act of letting Gao Ran wash clothes in ice water in the winter, or counting beans in the ashes, the Duke Yingguo Mansion would no longer have the confidence to support Gao Ran.
Gao Ran made a special trip to invite her maiden family to come over to have a showdown, afraid she had never expected this result.
Chapter 54 Part 1: Avoid Suspicion
Lin Wei Xi was very satisfied with this result. Who do these people think they are, to actually blame her? Seeing Lin Wei Xi's face ease down, the Gao second lady was overjoyed, and quickly helped Lin Wei Xi sit back in her seat. Lin Wei Xi half-willing half-unwillingly sat back. Seeing that the farce had finally come to an end, and didn't become out-of-hand situation, Duke Yingguo old madam was relieved in her heart: "Yan Wangfei, this old body talking in a hurry just now. This caused a misunderstanding."
This was a roundabout apology. After all, Duke Yingguo old madam was forty or fifty years older than Lin Wei Xi. In a patriarchal society where the old was respected, a grandmother's generation could say to this degree was rarer than a red rain. How could Lin Wei Xi's previous life ever think that one day, she would hear her arbitrary and domineering grandmother apologize to her.
But Lin Wei Xi was not a person who stop while she's ahead, what she liked the most was to kill to the very last one. Lin Wei Xi smiled at the old madam. She had a beautiful face, and this one smile was like the sky lighten up for the first time, when spring return to the earth, it's a pity what she said was a different kind of situation: "Old madam, since today's scene is all a misunderstanding. Where is the servant who use their tongue to cause this misunderstanding? Can actually move Yan Wang Mansion's affair to the Duke Mansion, presumably this is a servant of Yan Wang Mansion. Under my rule, some people dare to do this. This matter also misled the old madam and the second lady. It is really a crime worthy of death. Old lady can just say it, no matter who it is, I will punish them severely and give justice to Duke Yingguo Mansion."
Duke Yingguo old madam was shocked when she heard this. She and Guo second lady looked at each other in surprise, never expecting Lin Wei Xi to do things this way. It was also an eye-opener for Guo second lady. Among the noble ladies she used to meet, which one were not thin-skinned. They regarded face more than life, even if they were angry, if other people were looking, they would wipe their face, and most of them would just let it go. But Lin Wei Xi didn't. They had already speak to this extent, and almost put the dignity of Duke Yingguo Mansion to dust, and they finally persuaded Lin Wei Xi to come back. But now Lin Wei Xi still want to pursue the person who passed the message?
It's the first time for Guo second lady to see such an unreasonable and unforgiving woman. Wasn't she too confident?
But who made the other person felt so confident? Lin Wei Xi was the Yan Wangfei, who was more than a round younger than Yan Wang, and the one Yan Wang personally seek to bring back. It was indefinite how much Yan Wang loved her. Even if Duke Yingguo Mansion were the in-laws, the one they catch was Gu Cheng Yao. They still need to depend on Yan Wang, so how could they dare to offend the little Wangfei whom Yan Wang loved so much? To make things worse, this matter was still Gao Ran who was wrong first.
Gao second lady scolded Gao Ran very much in her heart. This troublemaker, she caused troubles and was punished, and went home to manipulate her elders, and now she wanted to involve her elders to apologize for her.
Gao second lady took a careful look at her mother-in-law, and after receiving her instructions, she said a name with shame on her face. Lin Wei Xi knew it was one of Gao Ran's dowry servant. Although she was also from the Duke Mansion, she couldn't compare to confidants like Tao Mama and Ning Fu. Lin Wei Xi also knew that it was impossible to cut off Gao Ran's right arm all at once, and it also quite rewarding to be able to get rid of the dowry servant because the opportunity that Gao Ran presented herself.
Lin Wei Xi thought this way, just as the Duke Yingguo old madam wanted, and did not continue to question closely, but just dismissed the dowry servant. It happened that the master's family was also there, so Lin Wei Xi said, "This dowry servant was brought by Shizi Consort, since Shizi Consort has entered the door of my mansion, then these dowry servants are all become my Yan Wang Mansion's people. But they are from Duke Yingguo Mansion after all. I can't judge the severity of it, so I can only ask the old madam a few advises. You said, what should I do with this kind of villainous slave who plays with their tongue and incite disharmony between in-laws?"
It's really been a long time since Duke Yingguo old madam had been this upset. She said: "You can do anything with those wicked slaves, this kind of people even the duke mansion can't tolerated it. Wangfei doesn't have to worry about it, just sell them."
"Alright." Lin Wei Xi responded with a smile, and said to Wan Yue, "Pass on the old madam's order and sell all the dowry servant in the Shizi Consort's courtyard with the surname Li."
Duke Yingguo old madam was speechless, why it became her orders again? Gao second lady at last gained first-hand knowledge, there were actually such difficult people in this world, and this person was Gao Ran's mother-in-law, and the duke mansion's people all dare not offend this Yan Wangfei.
This trip for Duke Yingguo Mansion was really a failure. Originally planned to come to support their granddaughter, but they were trolled by their granddaughter's young mother-in-law and many years of self-respect were all gone. Not only that, but also paid with a dowry family. Gao Ran only took two dowry family with her when she got married, and one family was lost in a blink of an eye. This loss was not insignificant.
Might as well thicken the face, the Duke Yingguo old madam simply gave up and brazenly asked, "Wangfei, the New Year is approaching, even the court has started the annual leave, Shizi actually still has to study all night?"
Lin Wei Xi for a while couldn't guess why the old madam suddenly asked about Gu Cheng Yao. She was afraid to leave an opening, so she just responded vaguely: "Shizi's daily necessities have always been a matter of the outer courtyard, generally follows Wangye's arrangement and I never get involved."
Duke Yingguo old madam also only started talking. She did not intend to question the way Yan Wang disciplined his son, but then asked: "Yan Wang's strict discipline to Shizi really makes me amazed. It's just that studying is a quiet and noble's work. It's inappropriate to have distracting thoughts in mind. Since Shizi wants to concentrate on studying, if there is still a maid by his side, won't it disturb Shizi's study?
Lin Wei Xi finally realized, it turned out Duke Yingguo old madam were talking about Yun Hui. Lin Wei Xi coughed, and a red cloud rose on her face, and her expression became embarrassed: "Yun Hui's matter...this is Shizi room's affairs. I'm afraid it's inappropriate for me as the stepmother to interfere."
Duke Yingguo old madam also felt embarrassed, and a seventeen-year-old girl said these, she couldn't hold back her old face. However, this was the main purpose of her coming today. Since the words had already spoken here, and the dowry family had been lost, then the vixen around Shizi must be dealt with. They could not meet Yan Wang, also didn't dare to talk to Yan Wang about such things. Of course, how to deal with Shizi's orioles and swallows, had to let Lin Wei Xi this mother to take action.
Lin Wei Xi felt that this was something… Yun Hui, she had the knowledge from her previous life. This person had served Gu Cheng Yao for ten years and two years older than Gu Cheng Yao. The girl understood the matters early, and Yun Hui personally took care of Gu Cheng Yao from boy to man. She might have regarded herself as his room's people in her heart. Not to mention Yun Hui and Bu mama were close, the two get along better than mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. In this case, if an outside primary wife wants to gain a foothold, these two "contributors" were a troublesome matter.
In the previous life, Lin Wei Xi was very uncomfortable with Yun Hui's behavior, and even more disgusted with Bu Mama who faintly regarded herself as half mother-in-law. Want her and Yun Hui to follow the example of Ehuang and Nyuying1? She was just dreaming, was Yun Hui really her match.
Lin Wei Xi had a lot of trouble with Bu Mama and Yun Hui in her previous life, but Gu Cheng Yao was blind, wholeheartedly thought that his nanny and close maid were good. Lin Wei Xi had finally left this quagmire now, and came as the sole winner. It was not an exaggeration to say that she was the one who called the wind and summoned the rain (the one that stir up troubles). Why she still contaminated by this mud? Gao Ran usually guarded against her like a thief, but now she wanted her to take action to solve Yun Hui, Heh! Where did she get such a thick face.
1 Ehuang and Nyuying are from Chinese mythology, they are the daughters of Emperor Yao, they both married Emperor Shun together, one as the wife the other as concubine. The three had good relationship, when Emperor Shun died, they both throw themselves into Xiangjing River. TN: Source I'm sorry if my summary sucks, if any of you familiar with the story please do tell.↩
Chapter 54 Part 2: Avoid Suspicion
Lin Wei Xi firmly shook her head: "I am about the same age as Shizi. I should avoided suspicion. Now I am intervening in the affairs of Shizi's room. If it spread outside what would it called? Shizi Consort has an orchid heart and vanilla quality1, and also the wife Shizi took a lot of trouble finding. This kind of trivial matter is naturally not a problem. Wife and concubine matters are part of Shizi Consort's own affairs, so let Shizi Consort make the arrangements herself.
If Gao Ran could dismiss Yun Hui, how could she still want to borrow Lin Wei Xi's influence? It was Gao Ran who couldn't get rid of this face, and Duke Yingguo old madam wanted to force Lin Wei Xi: "Wangfei's words are wrong, Shizi in the end wants to call you mother, the younger generation can't know people after a short while, can't see the good or bad, but also cannot rely on Wangfei as the mother to take the helm. After all, Wangfei will depend on Shizi to provide for her elderly life in the future, and the relationship between the mother and Shizi is still long. How can you really not concern about Shizi's courtyard matters?"
The Duke Yingguo old madam used providing for elderly life to threatened Lin Wei Xi. Even if Lin Wei Xi had children in the future, she would still need to rely on Gu Cheng Yao to provide for her elderly life. Gao Ran's attitude, as the daughter-in-law, was particularly important. After all, Shizi wasn't Lin Wei Xi's own child. How would she live in the future? Still couldn't overlook Gao Ran as the proper consort right?
Lin Wei Xi understood. She was vaguely angry, no longer cared about feelings and sentiments, her voice suddenly became colder: "If there's once there are second. Do you mean, Shizi Consort count on me to arrange the concubine for her?"
The Duke Yingguo old madam suddenly lost her voice. The stepmother get involved with the affairs of Shizi's room was not a good reputation, but reputation and rules could only restrain to those who care about it. If Lin Wei Xi really open-minded and didn't care about what outsiders think, she would use the elder's name to bestow a servant girl to Gu Cheng Yao. Even if she meddled with Gu Cheng Yao's concubine's room, what could other people actually do except said a few words of contempt?
The room was strangely quiet, Lin Wei Xi and the old madam's expressions were not very good. At this moment, there was a sudden noise outside the window, as if something had been knocked off. Several people in the room were taken aback. Lin Wei Xi stood up and heard a low voice of apologizing from outside, which was also mixed in with the sound of greeting.
Lin Wei Xi's expression sank. She walked out quickly, just in time to see Gao Chen standing aside, with a knocked vase under his feet. Gao Chen's wet nurse was holding him, and she kept apologizing to another person.
Gao Chen actually hided outside to eavesdrop? Lin Wei Xi was angry in her heart, but she still endured it and went ahead and said, "Wangye."
Gu Hui Yan nodded, motioning Lin Wei Xi to get up. Gao Chen's figure was small and hided in the gap. If Gu Hui Yan hadn't come back from the outside, it's unknown how long he would still hide. Of course, it was the family's instruction that Gao Chen came back to secretly overhear. His mother often asked him to do this. After a long time, Gao Chen himself learned. But today, he was accidentally spotted by someone and knocked down the vase. Looking at the face of his wet nurse, Gao Chen realized that even if he still didn't understand the matter, this time the disaster was serious.
The wet nurse also didn't expect that the young master went to eavesdrop and was discovered by Yan Wang, he was so frightened and accidently knocked down a vase. This was the porcelain of the Tang Dynasty. Yue Porcelain had long been discontinued now. Since the previous dynasty, Yue Porcelain was already priceless. Now the price of Yue Porcelain the wet nurse couldn't even began to imagine. The wet nurse's fright was not light, continuously apologize: "Wangye, please forgive me. Young master did not deliberately knock down the vase. Young master is still a child..."
The Duke Yingguo old madam walked out with the help of Gao second lady, her expression was not very good when she saw the sight outside. Gu Hui Yan glanced faintly on the ground and said, "It's nothing but a vase. Come here, just sweep it."
The maids on both sides responded, and everyone from the wet nurse to the Duke Yingguo madam breathed a sigh of relief: "Thank you Wangye. Brother Chen is young and not sensible. If he is rude, also asked Wangye to not care."
Gu Hui Yan didn't intend to speak, Lin Wei Xi saw this and said, "It's just a vase. If it fell, then it fell. It's good that it doesn't hurt anyone. Should I call someone to examine his hand?"
People of Duke Yingguo Mansion were a little embarrassed, so naturally they quickly said no. The old madam sighed in her heart, Yan Wang Mansion was indeed a really big family, even for Yue porcelain vase could said if it fell then it fell, just sweep it. Duke Yingguo old madam felt a little emotion in her heart and turned to worry about another matter. When did Yan Wang come in? Did he hear the previous words?
In fact, Gu Hui Yan was not in a good mood right now. Of course, this was not because he caught a child eavesdropping. He was a high-ranking person, naturally would not be doing such a low thing like eavesdrop, but he had developed a good hearing ability after many years of combat, and just now the Duke Yingguo old madam and Lin Wei Xi didn't deliberately lowering their voice when they talked.
Lin Wei Xi said that she was about the same age as Shizi, and then the old madam from the Gao family said that Lin Wei Xi would still need to depend on Gu Cheng Yao to provide for her elderly life, and the two people would have to get along for a long time.
Gu Hui Yan's originally acceptable mood suddenly clouded over.
Over the years he had advance gradually, step by step to the pinnacle of power, but no matter how meticulous the plan still could not change the time. He couldn't erase the fact that he was more than a round older than Lin Wei Xi.
He used to not care, but recently, when he looked at the young and bright Lin Wei Xi, and then saw his handsome son, he always felt a sense of absurdity. It was undeniable that Lin Wei Xi and Gu Cheng Yao were the same age, young and energetic, and they should be people of the same world.
Instead of him.
Especially the words of Duke Yingguo old madam, Lin Wei Xi would always have to be depend on Gu Cheng Yao to provide for her elderly life. Ridiculously speaking, Lin Wei Xi and Gu Cheng Yao were probably would accompany each other the longest and have the deepest bond. In the etiquette society, brothers would separate, father and son could turn into enemies, husbands and wife could part ways, only the relationship between mother and child that could not be cut off.
Gu Hui Yan suddenly wanted to know what Lin Wei Xi thought about this marriage that had to be concluded because of anger and accident? Why did she refuse to arrange a concubine for Gu Cheng Yao?
TN: And the smell of vinegar got stronger…
1 Orchid heart and vanilla quality, 兰心蕙质 it's a metaphor for a woman with pure heart and elegant personality.↩
Chapter 55 Part 1: Pride
When Yan Wang came back, people from Duke Yingguo Mansion did not dare to sit down anymore. Lin Wei Xi out of courtesy sent the people out. She politely said: "The old madam is leaving now? It is not easy for you to come to the mansion, don't you want to take a look at Shizi Consort?"
When the maiden family arrived, there was no reason they could not see their daughters. But today, the situation was special. The Duke Yingguo madam and Yan Wang had face-to-face meeting. Now she just want to leave the house as soon as possible, so how dare still stay in the mansion. The old madam said: "That's not necessary, the Duke Yingguo Mansion and Yan Wang Mansion are close, there will be more opportunities to meet in the future, there's no need to rush. On the contrary, we have been disturbing Wangfei for a long time today, and Wangfei still need to arrange the lunch, so this old body will no longer disturb."
"The old madam is polite." Lin Wei Xi smiled and suddenly asked, "According to the old madam, what should I do with Shizi Consort who hasn't finished copying The Book of Filial Piety? The New Year is coming soon, and she stay in the Buddhist hall also not good. If not, just forget it?"
Duke Yingguo old madam indeed thought so in her heart. Wasn't this kind of thing everyone would tacitly agree and then went through the motion. However, when Lin Wei Xi said it like this and asked in front of everyone, Duke Yingguo old madam, no matter how big the face, dare not say "Just forget it", the old lady could only bite the bullet and said, "How can that be?! How can she give up halfway when she made a mistake? After the year is over, let her go back and copy it again."
Lin Wei Xi said "Oh", sure enough old ginger is spicier, but it was a pity that Lin Wei Xi had understood the old madam's way, and it was useless to play with her. Lin Wei Xi smiled and asked sweetly and frankly: "When is this after the years over? That is too general. I'm afraid I will make a mistake. It is better for the old madam to make it clear, what day do you mean?
Gao second lady really couldn't close her mouth. She looked up at Lin Wei Xi in amazement, as if she saw some strange species. Duke Yingguo old madam had to grit her teeth a bit: "After the seventh day, after the People's Day, it is time for the Kitchen God to return to heaven."
"Alright." Lin Wei Xi responded with a smile, "Then follow the instructions of the old madam and let Shizi Consort continue to go to the temple to copy books on the eighth day of the New Year. I will inform Shizi Consort, the old madam and second lady will wait for Shizi Consort?"
"No need." The Duke Yingguo old madam twitched the corners of her lips stiffly, and said, "We are leaving now, Wangfei stays."
As expected, Lin Wei Xi stopped at the gate of the courtyard, smiled politely, and asked the maid to send the people out. Normally Lin Wei Xi should take a few more steps, but now Yan Wang was inside. Even if she leaves Yan Wang to send off the guests, the people of Duke Yingguo Mansion also dare not take it.
Lin Wei Xi more or less stood at the gate, and then turned around to return to the room. Just now Gu Hui Yan's expression looks wrong when he came in. What's wrong?
Lin Wei Xi did not see Yan Wang after entering the house. She asked the maid standing by the side: "Where is Wangye?"
The maid squatted over and quietly said: "Wangye is in the study."
Lin Wei Xi walked to the side house. She stood at the door and saw Gu Hui Yan standing in front of the bookshelf, sorting out his own collection. The eastern side house was called the study room, but actually it used to be vacant. Now Wangye moved the frequently used books back to the inner house, and the Wangfei also put things in it. Originally the side house was not spacious enough, so the study naturally need to be expanded. Now the East side house had opened the back pavilion, removed the old windows, and installed clear glazed windows, as far as eyes can see was bright and tidy.
The brightness Lin Wei Xi may have some credit, after all, it was her idea which direction to open the window in the first place, but the neatness was all because of Gu Hui Yan. In fact, Lin Wei Xi's living habits were definitely not messy. After all, her family background and education were there. She was not a person who throws things around, but Gu Hui Yan's obsessive-compulsive disorder was absolutely inexhaustible. His book must have the same height, the same direction, and different categories were also in different places, no matter what direction to look at, they were in neatly straight lines.
Lin Wei Xi couldn't help but stop when she walked to the door. Yan Wang's arrangement of this place was so neat that it made her difficult to move. She felt that she was the biggest mess.
Gu Hui Yan had heard Lin Wei Xi's footsteps a long time ago. He waited for a while but found that the noise had stopped. He looked back and saw Lin Wei Xi leaning by the door with a strange expression on her face. Gu Hui Yan was amused by such a weird expression, and the quiet and solemn face finally had some liveliness: "Why don't you come in? What are you doing at the door?"
"Wangye has arranged things clearly here. Once I went in, wouldn't it be messed up again?"
"Worst comes to worst just arrange it again, it's not a problem." Gu Hui Yan looked at her and smiled, and reached his hand to Lin Wei Xi, "Come here."
Lin Wei Xi really leaned forward. She took the book from Gu Hui Yan, looked up at Gu Hui Yan, and smiled crookedly: "Although Wangye said it's not a problem, I'm still afraid that you blame me in your heart. I will give you a hand, you definitely cannot say it's inconveniencing me."
Gu Hui Yan smiled, did not object, and said, "Then thank you for your trouble Wangfei."
Lin Wei Xi and Gu Hui Yan stood side by side in front of the tall and solid red sandalwood bookshelf that still exudes a unique woody fragrance. Gu Hui Yan held the book in one hand, quietly and calmly returning it to the right place. The setting sun hit Gu Hui Yan through the glazed windows, coating his profile with a layer of golden light, and he became more and more like a god descending to the earth, handsome and refined. The orange sun shines on Gu Hui Yan's hands, making his fingers slender and well-shaped, while the thin callus on his fingers and palms silently demonstrate the strength of a master.
Lin Wei Xi looked somewhat spellbound, but Gu Hui Yan saw that she didn't respond, so he could only said it again, "Li Weigong Questions."
Lin Wei Xi wake up from a dream, quickly found the book and handed it over to Gu Hui Yan.
The two of them one handed the books one put it in place, very harmonious. Although Lin Wei Xi felt that her role had no effect at all, and suspected that she was slowing down Gu Hui Yan's progress. But she still shamelessly gave a credit to herself, that she finished organizing the book collection with Gu Hui Yan. The atmosphere in the study was harmonious. Lin Wei Xi was looking for a book and asked while she was free: "Wangye, are you angry just now?"
Gu Hui Yan's hand invisibly paused, and then proceeded to sort out the spine of the book: "No. Why do you ask?"
"It's nothing, just think you are in a bad mood."
Gu Hui Yan glanced down at her, with a light tone: "How old are you, have you learned how to discern other's words and observe their expression?"
"What's wrong with my young age, was it not allowed to be born brilliant and talented?" Lin Wei Xi was dissatisfied with Gu Hui Yan who always said how old she was, and couldn't help muttering, "Was it not because I see you often that I paid attention, otherwise who's going to take care of you."
Gu Hui Yan glanced at Lin Wei Xi lightly, and after a while, he couldn't help but smile.
In fact, Gu Hui Yan rarely revealed his emotions, especially emotions that showed his true thoughts such as anger and discomfort. He actually didn't intend to mention these words, but who wanted to be seen through by the delicate and bad-temper little wife at home. Gu Hui Yan didn't think it was a retrogression in his many years of qi training. Perhaps, as Lin Wei Xi said, the two of them got along day and night, so the small changes even political opponents could not detect, it still couldn't be hidden from the person who shares his bed.
Chapter 55 Part 2: Pride
Lin Wei Xi saw Gu Hui Yan smile, and the pressure around his body became much better. She felt encouraged and asked tentatively, "Is it because of Gao Chen?"
Really didn't know where Gao Chen learned that "good habit". He could do things like eavesdropping in other people's house, and he almost succeeded. If it were not for Gu Hui Yan's sudden return, and he was more alert than ordinary people, afraid that Lin Wei Xi still unaware that what she said was heard word by word, and all at once it would be pass on to Han shi and even Gao Ran's ears.
Lin Wei Xi thought that Gu Hui Yan had caught an eavesdropping in his mansion, and felt unhappy. But Gu Hui Yan laughed, and shook his head: "Of course not. Why?"
Even if eavesdropping on this kind of thing was a bit shameless, but Gao Chen couldn't even count as a piece of sand in Gu Hui Yan's eyes. How could he be worried and even upset for such an unknown person? The people who was able to affect Gu Hui Yan's mind could be counted on one hand, and now, one more person has been added.
Gu Hui Yan looked down at Lin Wei Xi. She was still thinking ignorantly about the culprit that caused Gu Hui Yan's mood to deteriorate. When Lin Wei Xi mentioned Gao Chen, she couldn't help but think of the Book of Heaven and the future end of Gao Chen's inheritance of the Duke title. Lin Wei Xi's heart was stirring and couldn't help asking, "Wangye, what do you think of Gao Chen?"
"He?" Gu Hui Yan didn't expect Lin Wei Xi to suddenly ask about this person. He was just a shu grandson of the Duke Yingguo Mansion, only seven or eight years old. Gu Hui Yan didn't put this child in his eyes. Hearing Lin Wei Xi's question, Gu Hui Yan thought for a while and said, "Too flattering and embarrassing."
This conclusion was completely different to what Lin Wei Xi saw in the book, but Yan Wang's judgment of people couldn't be wrong, so why was there such a big deviation? Lin Wei Xi was curious, so she asked, "What makes Wangye think so? Is it because he eavesdropping?"
"No. Those who succeed will not bother with trifles, using trickery for a good principle then eavesdropping on what people say is nothing. But whether a true gentleman or a treacherous man, those who succeed without exception are all strong in heart and have clear goals, but he is too superficial. What he thought are all in order to meet others' preferences. I don't know the origin of this child, but I assumed that he most likely adept at pleasing the madams in the inner house, and in his eyes could only have his own family. In the future, he will be good in fighting for power, but there's no way for him to be a pioneer that open up a frontier."
With this words Lin Wei Xi suddenly realized. No wonder, in the future, Gao Chen indeed would rely on the help of his sister and brother-in-law to overcome his shu status to become the duke, but Duke Yingguo Mansion was not outstanding at that time, all relied on the light of their in-laws. Gao Chen becoming the duke and the person himself was incompetence were not contradictory. Wining the family power struggle did not mean that he could lead the family to prosperity. The idea of looking at the old at the age of three1 didn't came out of thin air. Gu Hui Yan barely met face-to-face, and his evaluation resolved Lin Wei Xi's long-standing confusion.
Lin Wei Xi was originally very uncomfortable with Gao Chen inherited the Duke Yingguo Mansion. Now that she listened to Gu Hui Yan's words, she even more didn't want to let the trajectory of the world to follow the heavenly book.
If Gao Chen was a real talented person, then Lin Wei Xi disliked Gao Chen because of personal grievances, really has a limit. But if Gao Chen couldn't take the Duke Yingguo Mansion to go up, might also lead the family to indulged in the status quo and slip into the abyss of complacent. Then Lin Wei Xi really had no reason to sit by and watch a person who was incompetent and she personally hated, become the patriarch of the duke mansion.
Lin Wei Xi lowered her eyes and couldn't help thinking about her clan brothers from the side branch who were both excellent in morals and studies. For Lin Wei Xi, the people who had the same bloodline but not the same parent, Guo Ji and his younger shu brother to inherited her father's Shizi position, it would be no difference. After Lin Wei Xi reborn, she was determined to draw a clear line from the past. Her status, past glory, and dowry were all buried with Gao Xi's death, and everyone in the Duke Yingguo Mansion was no longer her maiden family. Even if Lin Wei Xi approached Grand Princess Shou Kang out of selfishness, it was with another identity, and she did not intend to reveal the secret that she was Gao Xi.
Therefore, Lin Wei Xi really had nothing to do with her previous life. The life and death of the Duke Yingguo Mansion has nothing to do with her, but after all, the Duke Yingguo Mansion had raised her. Lin Wei Xi's lavish life since childhood, the meticulous education, and the pile of gold and jade, were all brought to her by the family. It would be very low if you enjoy the protection of the family, and after you got married, you will curse the family for sucking blood and eating people. Although now Lin Wei Xi was dead and reborn and stayed out of the way, she still want to contribute to the family that once gave birth to her and watch the Duke Yingguo Mansion go up at least for the rest of her life.
Lin Wei Xi quickly went through Guo clan's side branch, tried to choose a suitable child in all aspects. However, this kind of thing could not be rushed, she raised her head and saw Gu Hui Yan looking down at her, his eyes deep: "What are you thinking?"
Lin Wei Xi blinked, stretched out her hand to embrace Gu Hui Yan's arm, smiled shamelessly, and refused to say. Gu Hui Yan could do nothing to her, so he let her vaguely passed.
If Gu Hui Yan really wanted to know it was very easy to break through Lin Wei Xi's defense, he allowed Lin Wei Xi to act coquettishly, and didn't want to go deeply into it.
Lin Wei Xi originally helped hand over the book properly, but later she didn't want to answer, so she just hung her whole body on Gu Hui Yan. The interference was so strong that it was impossible to organize the bookshelves. Fortunately the books were almost all sorted out, and for the rest one-hand was enough. Gu Hui Yan unhurriedly sorted the book, with his other hand wrapped around Lin Wei Xi's waist, very unwittingly asked: "The scenery outside is just right, but you want to stay in the house with me to tidy up the books. Isn't it boring? "
"No." Lin Wei Xi bafflingly asked, "How can I feel bored? It's rare for Wangye to have such a long free time, can do something with you... although most of it is done by you, anyway, I feel very good."
Gu Hui Yan lowered his head, just in time to see Lin Wei Xi tilting her head against his shoulder, her delicate chin slightly raised, arrogant and straightforward. Gu Hui Yan smiled slightly, and his heart slowly relaxed. In fact, this was not the answer Gu Hui Yan wanted to hear. Lin Wei Xi did not understand his probing. Sometimes, she did not realize that he was testing her. But what does it matter? She was already his wife. Before considering the issue of providing for the elderly life, she had to spend a larger part of her time with him. Therefore, the reason Lin Wei Xi chose to marry him, there was no need to get to the bottom of it.
Gu Hui Yan could understand Lin Wei Xi's original thoughts, because Gao Ran decided to give Lin Wei Xi to others and said something to provoke her. Lin Wei Xi refused to be oppressed, just like the girl in the boudoir refused to be overwhelmed by her sister. Gao Ran showed off her Shizi Consort's status, Lin Wei Xi in a fit of pique wanted to marry someone higher. Gu Hui Yan knew from the beginning that Lin Wei Xi was act in a fit of pique, and he was just a tool in her willful actions, just a way out. But it doesn't matter. He could become a way to climb the social class, precisely because he was the higher social class, Yan Wang's achievements and glory were also part of him.
The past had passed, people were already married, the marriage was completed, and the little girl was really enjoying the role of Yan Wangfei. For him to let her be proud and happy for a long time, it's not impossible.
1 Looking at the old at the age of three, it means that through the behavior of a three-years-old child, you can feel what kind of person the child will be in the future.↩