Chapter 76 Part 1: Han Shi
Lin Wei Xi's expression was faint, her voice was clear and cold, colder than frost colder than snow, high above difficult to reach. At the end of the sentence, when she said "This is the way in Duke Yingguo Mansion", her intonation gently moved upwards. It was definitely a reproach, but for some reason it made people feel comfortable. It seemed that as long as it could attract her attention, it's okay to let her scold a few more words.
Han shi's hand paused, and the earnest smile on her face instantly froze, looking strange and embarrassed. The other people in the Duke Yingguo Mansion looked at each other, with rich expressions on their faces.
The difference between the primary wife and the concubine was very obvious. Concubines couldn't wear true red and could only wear pink. This also resulted in no legal wife would wear pink, even if they could. After Lin Wei Xi reborn, she shouldn't have met Han shi before, but she could easily tell her identity from her hair bun and clothes.
Han shi personally serving tea and water was originally intended to please Lin Wei Xi. She was born from a concubine, and she was the best at acting small. But in large household a concubine was not considered a proper master. At best, it was a semi-slave. Even when they saw their own son or daughter, they still have to bow. Such a humble status had always been despised by the mainstream. If a young lady from official family became a concubine for someone, even if that woman family's official position was much higher than the husband, she would be shun by her close friends and sisters, and they would sever their contact with her. Even a commoner woman, if she was sent to become a concubine of rich family, it was still considered an insult.
The commoner were like this, one could imagine how contemptuous the noble families were toward a concubines. As long as the primary wife exist, even if she has not given birth to an heir, was not favored by her husband, or so sick she had one breath left, she was still the wife. The offering to the ancestors, dealing with the guests, weddings and funerals could only be performed by the primary wife, and the concubine couldn't go out of the inner courtyard and welcomed visitors outside no matter how spoiled. Even if the primary wife died of illness, there was no place for the concubine to come forward. If the visiting madam found that the one receiving them was a concubine, if they had a big temper it wouldn't be surprising for them to turn around and leave.
The reception from a concubine was regarded as an insult by many primary wife madams, let alone the one that sit here was Yan Wangfei. People in Duke Yingguo Mansion certainly knew that the concubine couldn't come out to meet guests, but Duke Yingguo Shizi's wife, Wei shi, had been dead for seven or eight years. Han shi gave birth to the only son of Shizi. Duke Yingguo old madam treated this grandson like a treasure, she was also amiable to Han shi. The above declared their stands, and the people below followed suit. Therefore, Han shi often wandered outside. Many ladies and grannies of Duke Yingguo Mansion tacitly avoid mentioning it, and Han shi's transgression was let go.
In the past, other madam who came to the Duke Yingguo Mansion as guests turned a blind eye when they saw Han shi. The other womenfolk of Duke Yingguo Mansion were also there, Han shi was just mixed in with the crowd. Which madam would be so bold, pointing out the rudeness of Duke Yingguo Mansion. In addition to etiquette, there were also human sentiments. They wanted something from Duke Yingguo Mansion, so of course they would not offend the favored concubine of Duke Mansion Shizi's and the birth mother of Yan Wang Mansion's Shizi Consort.
No one expected Lin Wei Xi would directly and bluntly bring Han shi up in front of everyone. The room suddenly went silent, and the ladies of the Gao family looked at each other, their faces were wonderful. Usually the other madams who came to the Duke Mansion was polite, and everyone in the Gao family was used to such fawning. Although the object of the politeness was not Duke Yingguo Mansion, rather the Duke Mansion's in-laws, Yan Wang Mansion, but anyway, Gao Ran's surname was Gao, there was no difference between the two.
Duke Yingguo old madam was the first to react. She thought she was really getting old and more confused, even committing such an oversight. What kind of person was Yan Wangfei? Even if she entered the palace to meet the Empress Dowager, the Empress Dowager would want to win her over. Nowadays the circumstances of their Duke Mansion was all dependent on Yan Wang. How dare the Gao family make Yan Wangfei unhappy. Duke Yingguo old madam glared at Han shi and said, "Who asked you to come to this place? I gave you three points of respect because of Chen boy, so you really become arrogant and couldn't figure out your identity?"
Han shi had served Shizi for half her life and had two children with him. She had long not taken herself as a slave servant, but now in front of all the maids and daughter-in-laws, she was ruthlessly scolded by the old madam. Han shi's cheek immediately became red, her mouth faltered: "This servant..."
"A distinguished guest is visiting, is there any room for you concubine to say here?" Duke Yingguo old madam scowled and cursed badly, "Still not get out!"
Han shi's face blushed to the neck, she didn't even dare to lift her head, covered her face and hurriedly run out. When Han shi went out of the house, Duke Yingguo old madam restrained her disgust, turned her head and smiled at Lin Wei Xi nicely: "The concubine doesn't understand the rules, let Wangfei laughed."
Lin Wei Xi faintly glanced, there was still no smile on her face. The other womenfolk of the Gao family also reacted, they all smiled and talked to Lin Wei Xi. A bunch of people talked to each other, deliberately laughed, and immediately let this incident passed by.
The di daughter of the second branch of Duke Yingguo Mansion gave Gao Ran a vague glance, turned her head and whispered to her playing sister, and said something with a smile. In fact, they might not be talking about Gao Ran, but Gao Ran felt that they were laughing at her. Gao Ran was the one with the best marriage among the sisters. Gao Ran had always been proud of this, and she had a sense of superiority towards her sisters. But now in the presence of many relatives and sisters, her biological mother was treated coldly by her mother-in-law, and her grandmother almost anxiously throw her out.
Gao Ran felt that others were watching her, so she became more sullen and refused to let people watch the jokes.
Duke Yingguo old madam was afraid that Lin Wei Xi thought they were negligent, hurriedly said: "Chen boy, come here. Didn't yesterday you learn a new article? Come and recite it to Wangfei."
Gao Chen was held by the wet nurse, and the wet nurse kept pushing him from behind: "Boy, this is Yan Wangfei, you should tell Wangfei the words you memorized that you told me yesterday."
Gao Chen was deeply impressed by this amazingly beautiful young Wangfei. In his heart, this was a god from above that could not be touched. Gao Chen felt timid when he saw Lin Wei Xi, but his grandmother, wet nurse and all aunts stared at him closely, Gao Chen could only stammeringly say: "Confucius said, today's filial piety means being able to raise them, as for dogs and horses, they can all be raised... Look at the reason, watch the cause, observe what is safe, how are people." (TN: from The Analects of Confucius)
It's not a long chapter, and Gao Chen still stumbled. In contrast to his age it could be regard as pretty good, but Lin Wei Xi just met a genius who could recite after one reading on the road just now. The comparison between the two made Gao Chen even fell short.
Diligence could make up for one's weakness was meant for ordinary people, and the gap in real ability was irreparable. What especially staggering was that Gao Ke was more talented and hardworking than Gao Chen.
It's hopeless.
Even Wan Xing and Wan Yue felt that the difference was too far, could not be compared at all. After Gao Chen's stammering recitation, the old madam was obviously relieved and looked at Lin Wei Xi expectantly.
Lin Wei Xi could only pursed her lips, smiled and said, "Virtuous grandson is intelligent, let people expand one's horizon."
Duke Yingguo old madam smiled with satisfaction. She had only one son the Duke Yingguo Shizi, who had been spoiled since childhood. Now that the son had descendant, even if he was a shu son, the Duke Yingguo old madam was very proud. Aware that her own grandson was intelligent and sweet-mouth, everything all good.
It's a pity that Lin Wei Xi had little interest. Yan Wang's evaluation of Gao Chen was very accurate. Gao Chen very adept in the inner house's skill and had a very conscientious personality. He often unconsciously ingratiated himself to others' preferences. He put his mind on this kind of area, how could he be useful in the future. Lin Wei Xi thought of Gao Ke she met on the road, recalling Gao Ke's mentality and circumstances, and she sighed even more.
Chapter 76 Part 2: Han Shi
Lin Wei Xi thought about these things, and didn't really pay attention to the stage play before her. Duke Yingguo old madam however were fascinated by it. She was holding her grandson in her arms, leaning on the soft padded couch, one play was exactly two hours. Gao Chen also followed the old madam's side to please her, with this kind of stage play most of the afternoon quickly passed by.
After another play ended, the old madam still wanted to continue. The Gao second lady quietly called the old madam from behind. The old madam came to her sense, and remembered the next step: "Wangfei, the Duke Mansion's stage is crude and simple, not as good as the Yan Wang Mansion, afraid slighting Wangfei today."
"How come." Although Lin Wei Xi smiled, the smile did not enter her eyes. "The troupe of the Duke Mansion is well prepared."
"Indeed." Duke Yingguo old madam was very proud. The elderly like her loved to watch these kind a thing to pass the time. The grandchildren below of course would listen together in order to get on her good side. The ancestors like it, wouldn't the troupes that was invited to the Duke Mansion all first class? Duke Yingguo old madam used herself to measure others, she thought with her pushing her grandson to show off in front of Wangfei, and invited Lin Wei Xi to watch a very wonderful play today, Lin Wei Xi should be very happy now. The old madam saw that the preparations was enough, and said: "However, no matter how good the Duke Mansion is, it is not as exquisite as the imperial household. A few days ago I cough a little, and the third girl that stupid child thought that I was seriously ill, so she hurried back. Now that I am fine, she should return to Yan Wang Mansion and continue serving Wangfei."
Hearing these words, Gao Ran stepped forward and bowed her head to salute to Lin Wei Xi: "Pay respect to mother. These few days this daughter-in-law can't serve by mother's side, and she blames herself very much. I wonder how mother's health these days?"
Lin Wei Xi said in her heart 'it finally come', she knew that the Duke Mansion specially held a banquet for Gao Ran's matters. Lin Wei Xi glanced at Gao Ran, and said in a light tone: "Shizi Consort get up. That day Shizi Consort left in a hurry, presumably the old madam was in serious condition. Since Shizi Consort want to serve her sick grandmother, then there's no harm to stay a few more days. Anyway, the mansion is no lack the serving people, and I also don't need you to follow me morning and night, so Shizi Consort can stay with ease."
Gao Ran maintained the posture of saluting, with her head lowered. Before Gao Ran could say anything, the Duke Yingguo old madam was already anxious: "This old body's health is already good, and there is no hindrance at all. The daughter-in-law cannot be absent from serving her mother-in-law for a day. She already wasting time here with me for so long. How can she continue to delay, and leaving Wangfei with no one around."
The Gao second lady also said: "Yes, the old ancestor has us. It is better for the third girl to stay with Wangfei."
If Gao second lady could be honest, if her daughter-in-law throw a cold face because her son took a concubine, directly set up a carriage and leave without asking her elders, and stayed in her parent's house for ten days, she would not show her daughter-in-law a good face. And Gao Ran's husband's family was still Yan Wang Mansion.
Lin Wei Xi smiled and let it go for a while, and said: "Since the old madam and the second lady said so, then I will take Shizi Consort to return home. The old madam's illness will leave it to the second lady to take care."
The Duke Yingguo old madam and Gao second lady both laughed. What illness, it was just an excuse to wipe Gao Ran's ass. But fortunately, Lin Wei Xi was relenting. This was already a great fortune, so the old madam didn't take those unlucky words to heart.
Lin Wei Xi inquired about the old madam's "illness" and then looked at Gao Ran. There was no change in her expression, but everyone in the room became serious, unknowingly straightened up, and nervously looked the scene before them.
"Shizi Consort."
Gao Ran quickly crouched down deeper: "Daughter-in-law is here."
"Since this time it was because the old madam was seriously ill, so you ran out of the mansion privately, I won't hold you accountable. But if you still want to live a good life with Shizi, then put aside your thoughts and don't be so impulsive."
Lin Wei Xi's words contain other meanings. Gao Ran understood that Lin Wei Xi gave her a warning, but the people in Duke Yingguo Mansion could not hear it. Seeing Lin Wei Xi relenting, the Gao second lady hurriedly smiled and said something nice, both consoling Shizi Consort and praising Lin Wei Xi. Lin Wei Xi sat for a while, her eyes rolled towards Gao Ran, "Get up."
Gao Ran only then get up. The half-crouching posture was the most tiring. She stood up and felt that her legs were all numb, as if there were ten thousand ants biting it. Gao Ran endured it, and walked as naturally as possible behind Lin Wei Xi, and made an attitude of serving her mother-in-law.
The young lady were always especially respected in her maiden family, and the woman's posture was always higher. Even if her maiden family ignored her, they would still be very unyielding when facing their in-laws. However, Lin Wei Xi sat on Duke Yingguo Mansion's grounds and reprimanded Gao Ran in front of everyone, Duke Yingguo Mansion's people did not dare to have any dissatisfaction. Duke Yingguo old madam were really scared by Gao Ran's previous convictions. In any case, they should sent her back to Yan Wang Mansion.
The purpose was achieved and the day was not early anymore. Lin Wei Xi stood up and said goodbye. Everyone in Duke Yingguo Mansion graciously sent Lin Wei Xi out from the second gate, watching Lin Wei Xi and Gao Ran board the carriage one after another, and then returned contentedly. After returning to Yan Wang Mansion, Gao Ran followed Lin Wei Xi back to Jingcheng Courtyard. Lin Wei Xi sat on the heated brick bed and finally heaved a sigh of relief.
Lin Wei Xi could rest, but Gao Ran couldn't. Gao Ran still stood beside Lin Wei Xi serving tea and water, fulfilling her duties as a daughter-in-law. Lin Wei Xi didn't want to make herself look like a wicked mother-in-law, as if she deliberately made things difficult for her daughter-in-law after a tiring day. Lin Wei Xi said: "Shizi Consort has been standing for a whole day, go back to your own courtyard and rest for a while. You just come back, I am afraid there are many things to be settled."
"How can this be done?" Gao Ran still wanted to decline, but Lin Wei Xi already too impatient to listen: "You should go back to Qingsong Garden first before talking. This past few days, Shizi seems to be injured and still recuperating."
The rest of Gao Ran's words suddenly couldn't be said. There was only one person in the world who could punish Gu Cheng Yao to this extent.
Gao Ran no longer insisted on her hypocritical "filial piety", and after thanking Lin Wei Xi, she quickly walked towards Qingsong Garden. In Qingsong Garden, Gu Cheng Yao had heard the news outside: "Shizi Consort is back?"
"Yes. Wangfei came back with Shizi Consort. As soon as she entered the mansion, she went directly to Wangfei's house. Presumably Wangfei will let Shizi Consort come back soon."
Gu Cheng Yao nodded coldly, there was an inexplicable urge to sigh in his heart. The injury on his back was very serious, a slight movement almost tear him down. Lin Wei Xi sent the person back, presumably in order to let Gao Ran take care of him.
But Gu Cheng Yao didn't look forward to it. He was really disappointed with Gao Ran, and he even suspicious with Gao Ran's story that said Gao Xi relied on her di daughter identity to push her around and deliberately seizing her life-saving grace. He thought Gao Xi took advantage of her position to bully people and unreasonable, he thought Gao Ran was smart, gentle and tenacious.
But was what he thought true?
Gu Cheng Yao let the doubts grew in his heart to cover up a thread irritability in his innermost heart. Obviously it was his business, but others would always go to Lin Wei Xi to intercede. Gao Ran was like that and Yun Hui was like that.
This gave him a subtle embarrassment and rejection. He didn't want Lin Wei Xi to know about this kind of private matters.
Chapter 77 Part 1: Heir
Gu Hui Yan only came back when the night curfew was approaching. Lin Wei Xi helped him unfastened the hidden buttons on his court dress. She couldn't help but complained: "Wangye, what's bothering you today that made you only come back now?"
These Lin Wei Xi's word if looked carefully was very disrespectful to the Emperor and the First Assistant, but Gu Hui Yan couldn't help laughing when he heard them: "It's them that are not good, and Wangfei should not be angry."
Lin Wei Xi was patted on the head, suddenly thought it was not a good idea to continue to make trouble. She had already taken off the outside ornament, then she embraced Gu Hui Yan's waist, her fingers nimbly untied the leather belt around his waist. Now Lin Wei Xi was very accustomed in taking off men's court dress, and she was no longer unfamiliar with these leather belts. She placed the leather belt on the maid's tray, stood on her toes slightly, and unfastened the hidden buckle on his shoulder and neck.
Gu Hui Yan was very familiar with Lin Wei Xi's movements, and the two have a tacit understanding, like moving clouds and flowing water (tn: very natural), it was indescribably harmonious and beautiful. Gu Hui Yan changed into homewear robes, the maids held the replaced court dress and withdrew. After the court dress was washed and put on incense, they could be sent in again. When changing clothes, the maids just stood on the side to receive the clothes. Only Lin Wei Xi who really did the work. Now that Yan Wang's clothes have been changed, the maids very tactfully retired and left the space for Wangye and Wangfei.
Lin Wei Xi sat on the Arhat bed, picked a few cherries from the colored glaze cup, and casually offered them to Gu Hui Yan's mouth. Gu Hui Yan lowered his eyes to see, Lin Wei Xi's delicate fingers pinched the red cherries, couldn't tell which one looks better.
Lin Wei Xi thought that Gu Hui Yan didn't want to eat it, softly snorted and took it back to eat herself. Gu Hui Yan watched Lin Wei Xi pick out cherries from the gorgeous glass bowl across the short table. The delicate fingers against the cherries, made people particularly have appetite.
His throat moved, and he reached out to wipe the red stains from the corners of Lin Wei Xi's lips: "Why are you look like a cat."
Lin Wei Xi didn't care, instead, she dislike that Gu Hui Yan wiped her mouth for too long, it delayed her from eating cherries. Lin Wei Xi held his hand and pushed it away. Gu Hui Yan's fingertips still had the lingering of that delicate and soft touch. He put his hand under the table and rubbed his fingertips, feeling a little regretful.
Lin Wei Xi leisurely picked up the cherries and said to Gu Hui Yan: "Wangye, Shizi Consort is back."
Gu Hui Yan just nodded, he heard about it on the way back. These people were actually perceptive and knew how to follow Lin Wei Xi's way. Since Lin Wei Xi brought the people back, Gu Hui Yan didn't bother to care about them.
Lin Wei Xi always told Gu Hui Yan about the big and small things in the mansion every day. Although Gu Hui Yan might already know it, this was what she as a wife should do. Gu Hui Yan also secretly supported this move. These things although trivial but true, especially when it was spoken from Lin Wei Xi's mouth, it gave him a strong sense of home.
Of course, he had this feeling, it might also because it came from Lin Wei Xi's mouth, not because of these trivial matters. Since meeting Lin Wei Xi, Gu Hui Yan had developed a new hobby. He liked listening to Lin Wei Xi, especially when she was scolding people. Lin Wei Xi chattered about her achievement today, Gu Hui Yan's eyes were smiling, just watching her quietly.
After Lin Wei Xi finished speaking, with a deliberate thought of provoking things, she asked: "That Yin Yang pot's matter, Wangye do you know everything?"
Gu Hui Yan was also there when Lin Wei Xi demonstrated the Yin Yang pot that day. Later, Lin Wei Xi didn't take care the rest, but Gu Hui Yan must have grasped the whole matter. Gu Hui Yan did not answer, but asked: "What are you asking this for?"
"I'm just curious."
Gu Hui Yan looked at Lin Wei Xi with a clear smile in his eyes. Lin Wei Xi refused to admit defeat, and tenaciously said, "I just felt weird at the time, so I asked Wan Yue to take the wine pot to look at it. After that I don't know anything. Wangye, if you only heard half of something, aren't you curious about the rest of it?"
Gu Hui Yan laughed, as if he didn't see through Lin Wei Xi's wickedness, if she was really only curious then just asked Gao Ran. Gu Hui Yan said: "The following things are meaningless, you don't need to know. Just know that similar things won't happen again."
Of course Lin Wei Xi didn't want to just listen tp the follow-up. What she really wanted to know was that Gu Cheng Yao received punishment, but Gao Ran's wrongdoing was more serious, didn't she need it too?
"Then... this thing just passed like that?"
In fact, Gu Hui Yan was very displeased with the current Shizi Consort, her mind was malicious, and also used very insidious means. If she was vicious but courageous and strategic, Gu Hui Yan would rather look up at her. Unfortunately no, just insidious tricks to falsely accused woman of adultery and frame someone up. Gu Hui Yan could accept crafty plot and machinations, or not caring about one's family, but he was disgusted with evil schemes.
But Gu Cheng Yao married her, what could he do? What Gao Ran did, just double the punishment on Gu Cheng Yao. People should always responsible for their own decisions. Gu Hui Yan said: "I only settle everything with the person in power. I don't care how they handle it internally."
In other words, he would not care about Gao Ran anymore.
Hearing this Lin Wei Xi was not surprised. This was the way Yan Wang acted. She had seen it before when she was in Shunde prefecture. At that time, Lin Yong's reward was detained so badly that even the Jin Shu Iron Deed were swallowed by that dog county official. However, Gu Hui Yan didn't say anything when he learned about it. He didn't give a slightest punishment to the county officials who were so scared to death. He just wrote directly to First Assistant Zhang.
It's the same this time. Gu Hui Yan would not punish Gao Ran, he would only accumulate the account on Gu Cheng Yao. As for how Gu Cheng Yao treated Gao Ran after he return, what does this have to do with Gu Hui Yan?
TN: Both part release today…
Chapter 77 Part 02: Heir
Lin Wei Xi was suddenly a little curious, she coughed, and pretended to ask casually: "Wangye, how exactly did you punished Shizi? I don't know what to say when asked about it today."
Gu Hui Yan replied indifferently: "It's nothing, a small punishment is not a big deal."
This was just a small punishment... Lin Wei Xi was speechless, she half-jokingly said: "Then I should really thank Wangye, I was so foolish, but Wangye did not punish me."
Gu Hui Yan laughed: "How can you be the same."
This was not the first time Lin Wei Xi had heard from Gu Hui Yan that she was special. Lin Wei Xi unknowingly smile arrogantly and self-confidently, then said: "Wangye, Shizi Consort stayed at her maiden house for several days. But there was no movement from Shizi. He didn't even show up when Shizi Consort came back today. Today in Duke Yingguo Mansion, I don't have the nerve to say, but isn't Shizi too cold toward Shizi Consort?"
"The matter of their husband and wife, let them handle it by themselves. If there is a conflict, they come to look for you, when the husband and wife have a cold war also come to look for you. Why you have to put so much effort."
Although saying this, but if the son and daughter-in-law had an ugly quarrel, which family's mother-in-law did not step forward to mediate and coax the daughter-in-law after scolding the son? Lin Wei Xi also didn't want to take care of these things, but she was still a little hesitant: "If I really don't care about anything, is that okay?"
"That as it should be." Although Gu Hui Yan was still smiling, his eyes suddenly revealed something meaningful, "Why do you care so much about their husband and wife?"
Lin Wei Xi was pardoned by Yan Wang himself, and was so happy. Suddenly she heard the next question, her radiant eyes paused, and then like she didn't care, continued to pick up the cherries: "After all, I am their elder. The younger couple are at odds, how can the elders not care?"
Gu Hui Yan just smiled, did not say whether he believed it or not. Lin Wei Xi was afraid that Gu Hui Yan would turn over the old account, quickly changed the subject: "Wangye, I met a fourteen or fifteen years old boy on the way to Duke Yingguo Mansion. He has a particularly good memory, is sensitive to mathematics, and has great courage. I think as long as there is a suitable opportunity, his future's achievements will not be low."
Gu Hui Yan also heard this matter from his subordinates. Someone dared to run into Lin Wei Xi's carriage, how could it be hidden from him. It's just that Gu Hui Yan didn't expect Lin Wei Xi's evaluation of this person was so high.
Gu Hui Yan suppressed his original words and asked, "Do you admire him very much?"
"Yes, who doesn't like smart and hardworking people."
Since Lin Wei Xi liked it, Gu Hui Yan instead didn't know where to start. There was a vague feeling in Gu Hui Yan's heart, Lin Wei Xi was too concerned about the affairs of Duke Yingguo Mansion. He asked: "There are so many talented people in the world, the diligent and tenacious humble scholar are as vast as stars. Why do you care about this Gao Ke?"
Of course it was because his surname was also Gao. Lin Wei Xi didn't say the specific reason, so she could only smile, and said vaguely: "It's just fate. Hey, Wangye, how do you know his name is Gao Ke?"
"Answer my question."
Lin Wei Xi snorted in her heart, her behavior remained the same, but the expression on her face quickly became fierce: "You mean to me?!"
"No."
Lin Wei Xi snorted, turned away and said nothing, leaving Gu Hui Yan with the view of her back. Gu Hui Yan was helpless and could only coax her: "Since you don't like it, then forget it. There are many talented children from the subordinate family of Yan fief. If you like it, I will let their madam bring them in to relieve your boredom. "
Lin Wei Xi smoothly passed this ordeal. She took advantage of the situation to relax her expression and said, "It doesn't have to be so troublesome. I just saw an intelligent child and like it very much."
Gu Hui Yan's heart moved, faintly testing with a sentence, "The mansion is indeed a little dull now. It's okay to let their madam walk around with their children more, and make the mansion more lively."
The topic suddenly turned to children, Lin Wei Xi's heart became cold, and the smile on her face immediately faded. This was not a pretense anger like before, but sincere from the heart, inside and outside was cold and lonely.
Lin Wei Xi finally realized that Yan Wang was testing her. But test her for what? Whether or not she covet Shizi's position? Lin Wei Xi didn't want to talk about this topic, she instinctively resisted the possible results. And when Gu Hui Yan saw Lin Wei Xi's cold expression, he thought she was unwilling.
The atmosphere that was still harmonious just now became stiff. After only a moment of silence, Gu Hui Yan spoke: "If you feel bored, you can summon people to come in anytime, and doesn't have to limit it to the subordinates inside. Before I return to the mansion. I was talking to the Emperor about the summer vacation. If there is no accident, this year can go to the outside palace to escape the summer heat, so I came home late."
Lin Wei Xi also cooperatively responded: "It turns out that Wangye and His Majesty was talking about going out of the palace, it's no wonder coming home so late. Then these few days, I should pack up and prepare to go to the outside palace?"
Gu Hui Yan responded with a low tone and said, "You can arrange it."
Chapter 78 Part 1: Summer Escape
Soon after Gu Hui Yan finished speaking, as expected, within a few days, in the morning court the Emperor proposed to go to the outside palace to escape the heat this summer, instead of staying in the Forbidden City.
In the Forbidden City, the hierarchy was strict and the palace walls were heavy. Courtiers must be cautious when they go to court every day, this was a constraint on both the Emperor and the court. If they get out the palace, not only was it much easier to discuss things, but also not far away from the Royal Hunting Grounds, which offered the best of both worlds, political affairs and entertainment.
But it's a pity that the Emperor's kindness was not recognized by his courtiers, especially the official group headed by First Assistant Zhang, strongly opposed to the Emperor leaving the imperial palace and going outside the capital. Zhang Xiao Lian had been the First Assistant and the Emperor's teacher for many years. Everyone was used to Zhang Xiao Lian making decisions for the Emperor, everyone thought that this time will be the same as before. Even if the Emperor this young man was anxious to have fun, as long as First Assistant Zhang disagree and the Emperor being stubborn, in the end could only listen to First Assistant's opinion.
But the matter of going to the outside palace was particularly troublesome. The Emperor showed a cold face during morning court, and the noon meeting afterward were canceled off. For many years, in order to assist and teach the young Emperor, the cabinet also double as instructor for the Emperor. Every day after the morning court finished, they would be summoned by the Emperor to Qianqing Palace to give lecture for His Majesty. This practice was constructed by Zhang Xiao Lian, and now the Emperor has cancelled the cabinet lecture for the first time, which was undoubtedly a clear statement to everyone in the capital that he was dissatisfied with Zhang Xiao Lian's practice.
Very childish behavior, but the meaning behind it was huge and terrifying.
Later, Yan Wang came forward to deal with it and agreed for the Emperor to go to the outside palace to escape the heat, but the following army must be strict. In front of everyone's eyes he also went to Zhang's Mansion, and personally acted as a lobbyist for the First Assistant and the Emperor. Zhang Xiao Lian really didn't have plan to usurp the throne. He just had a clear and independent set of ideas about what the Emperor should do and how the court should function. He drew a perfect template for the Emperor, and asked the Emperor to follow this model and grow into the image of wise monarch in his mind.
But how was it possible. The Emperor was asked to be a virtuous and upright monarch since he was a child, and he himself was prepared, but if he said a few words to the little palace maids around him, he would be reprimanded by the First Assistant for not acting like Shang Zhou and Zhou You (tn: wise emperor of the past), and to get closer to a certain palace eunuch. He would be told that he should be close to the virtuous minister. Even when the Emperor indulged in calligraphy and after copied a few characters, he would be sternly lectured by Zhang Xiao Lian, shouldn't let trifling destroy the will.
In particular, everyone felt that the Emperor was still a child, and in the end would always listen to First Assistant Zhang's words, which made the Emperor's rebellious heart became even more serious. Among the civil and military forces of the dynasty, probably only Yan Wang who did not regard the Emperor as a child. The Emperor said it several times, but Gu Hui Yan often used honorific words such as "Your Majesty" to him. Although felt a bit estranged, Gu Hui Yan always kept his duty as a minister and satisfied the Emperor's self-esteem.
When Gu Hui Yan personally came forward, Zhang Xiao Lian still need to give the Emperor some face. However, even if he relented, he refused to show that he agreed with this matter, rather said he was ill and declined to accompany to the outside palace.
And the Emperor knew that he was being uncharacteristic, he didn't even show a caring attitude for his teacher's health and directly ordered the entourage to set out towards the outside palace. As for the unhealthy First Assistant, then stay in the capital to recuperate.
The officials in the capital all smelled a strong gunpowder smoke. Although there was a sign before, as long as the last layer of window paper was not broken, everyone could pretend to be ignorant. But now, the Emperor was not even willing to maintain this superficial effort.
A big change was coming, right under everyone's nose.
The outside palace was built in the southwest of the capital, surrounded by mountains and rivers, with lush vegetation. Many wild animals were bred on the pasture just for the imperial family and nobles to hunt and play. Because the front was surrounded by water and backed by the mountain, even if the outside palace was more south than the capital, the temperature was appropriate throughout the year, especially suitable for summer escape, so it was also called the Summer Palace. The architectural style of the Summer Palace was very different from that of the capital. Flowers and trees were planted everywhere, and the courtyard was no longer strictly in accordance with the hierarchy and symmetry like in the capital, it was much more lively and graceful.
After three or four days of rest, Lin Wei Xi was slowly recovered, and her face didn't look as pale as when she had just arrived. Her body was weak, even after rebirth Lin Wei Xi meticulously maintained it, the sickness that came from mother's womb, no matter how you raised it, still couldn't be as good as ordinary people.
Lin Wei Xi was recuperating, and the entire Yan Wang Mansion moving around her quietly. Now that Lin Wei Xi got better, everyone in the mansion had light steps. The condition of the mistress of a mansion directly affected the appearance of the entire mansion.
"Wangfei, this is an invitation from Marquis Chengde Mansion inviting you to enjoy the flowers."
Lin Wei Xi glanced at it and said, "Put it down."
A few days ago, she declined to meet visitors, and took leave from the Empress Dowager and the Emperor. Visiting the sick and well-wishes cards were accumulating into a small piles. Now that her health was better, the endless invitations from each mansion were becoming more and more diligent.
Lin Wei Xi leaned on the soft pillow, Wan Xing held a thick pile of cards and read them one by one for Lin Wei Xi. Wan Yue stood by the side, changing the water and fanning Lin Wei Xi from time to time, taking care of Lin Wei Xi's body carefully.
Gao Ran also stood not too far away, but she looked absent-minded and seemed incompatible with Lin Wei Xi's master and servant this three people. Even the maid need to call her three times before Gao Ran woke up and covered her cough.
Lin Wei Xi glanced at her and asked, "What's wrong with Shizi Consort, are you unwell?"
"Not at all." Gao Ran bowed her head. "It's just that the windows were not closed tightly last night, and felt a little cold."
Lin Wei Xi nodded lightly and said, "Shizi Consort should pay attention to your body. If you feel unwell, you should go back and rest first."
"How can this work? It's not a major problem." Gao Ran lowered her eyes to decline. Lin Wei Xi glanced at her, and said nothing.
As soon as Gao Ran went out later, Wan Xing get close to Lin Wei Xi's ear, and whispered: "Wangfei, Shizi and Shizi Consort was arguing again just now."
"What happened?"
"It seems that Shizi of Duke Yingguo Mansion came here not long ago. I don't know what he said to Shizi, but Shizi looked unhappy. Shizi Consort saw it, and after a few words of persuasion, the two separated again.
It turned out that the father-in-law came, no wonder the two people were so cold to the naked eye. Fathers often think differently from female elders such as grandmothers and biological mothers. Female elders understand that it was not easy to be a daughter-in-law, so they always persuade their daughters to be gentle and tolerant, but the fathers were always confident with their own convictions. No matter how he treats his wives and concubines, in short, his daughter cannot be wronged at all. The Duke Yingguo Shizi made this special trip, presumably to support his daughter to vent her anger, but with Gu Cheng Yao's character, was he a person who could reflect on compromise? It's impossible, so it's no wonder that Gu Cheng Yao and Gao Ran once again had a cold war.
In fact, Gao Ran felt angry too. Seeing her and Gu Cheng Yao's relationship eased a little, Duke Yingguo Shizi had to come over and inserted his foot in. This inferior father came to support her and teach her husband. Gao Ran didn't feel touched. She only felt that Duke Yingguo Shizi's extra effort and self-righteousness were disturbing the relationship between their husband and wife.
For Lin Wei Xi, these things were just a gossip to past the time. After finished listening she continued to lower her head to deal with her own business. After a while Gao Ran came back from outside and continued to wait on Lin Wei Xi's side. At this time, a young manservant ran in from the outside. He cleverly gave Lin Wei Xi a salute and probed the room: "Wangfei, is Shizi here with you?"
"No, I haven't seen him." Lin Wei Xi looked at the young boy's expression and asked, "Why are you looking for him?"
"It's nothing big, but Wangye has instruction for Shizi, to let Shizi go over as soon as possible."
"What's the matter?"
"This little one also doesn't know, it seems that Wangye want to ride the horse to the hunting ground."
Lin Wei Xi's eyes became rounder: "Wangye is going to the hunting ground?"
The young manservant scratched his head. Actually, he was not sure, but Wangfei was so excited that he was unwilling to say no. Although Lin Wei Xi was in poor health, she still had a passion for dangerous sports. Especially with the boudoir strict training, she had never been to an eye-catching place like hunting grounds, as for riding horses don't even think about it. In this sense, after marriage as long as the husband and mother-in-law allowed it, the woman's autonomy would become greater. Riding horses for a young lady was considered improper, but after marrying, as long as the mother-in-law allowed it, and the husband accompanied the woman to ride a horse, then what could other people say?
Since Gu Hui Yan sent someone to call Gu Cheng Yao, it must be Gu Hui Yan's personal plan, not an invitation from his colleague. In this case, Lin Wei Xi could follow along and develop it into a family gathering.
Lin Wei Xi immediately went back to the house to change into her riding outfit enthusiastically. Gao Ran also heard these words, of course she had to follow along. Gao Ran was sent back by Lin Wei Xi to change clothes. Both of them changed their clothes abnormally fast. After a while, Gao Ran changed neatly into her clothes and returned to Lin Wei Xi's room. Lin Wei Xi took Gao Ran and went outside to find Yan Wang.
Chapter 78 Part 2: Summer Escape
After Duke Yingguo Shizi came out from Yan Wang's residence in the Summer Palace, he walked for a long time in trance.
He also knew that Gao Ran had returned to his family some time ago, but he was not clear why. It was not until a few days that Gao Chen spill the beans. He carefully asked Han shi, only to realize that Gao Ran returned to her maiden family because her husband was taking a concubine. Duke Yingguo Shizi was furious when he learned about it. In fact, he also had a lot of concubine, but his son-in-law accepted a concubine, and even wronged his daughter for the concubine, how could he bear this kind of thing? (tn: Hypocrite much!)
Just now in the Summer Palace it was convenient to get in and out. Duke Yingguo Shizi with a black face came to Yan Wang Mansion to settle accounts with Gu Cheng Yao. However, Gu Cheng Yao grew up in a good environment, his life always smooth sailing, where would he concede to lowering himself in front of his father-in-law. Duke Yingguo Shizi had a bad tone, after he said a few words, Gu Cheng Yao was also annoyed. With a cold face he threw the yin yang pot to Duke Yingguo Shizi, so that he could see what his precious daughter did. Don't think that his daughter was all great, as if suffered a grievance, then everything was the fault of others.
At the start Duke Yingguo Shizi was completely in disbelief when Gu Cheng Yao said that Gao Ran plot against the concubine's reputation. It was not until Gu Cheng Yao put things in front of him that Duke Yingguo Shizi was shocked to find that it was not Gu Cheng Yao who was slanderous. He had no idea that there was such an inside story, or it could be said, he had never thought that his kind and gentle daughter would do such a thing.
The son-in-law wanted to accept his personal maid who had served him for ten years as a concubine. Gao Ran was unwilling, so she used medicated wine to frame the concubine with the crime of adultery. Had it not been for Wangfei who found out that there was something wrong with the wine pot, Gao Ran would have succeeded.
When Duke Yingguo Shizi walked out of Yan Wang Mansion, his steps were weak. He didn't care that he lost his face in front of his son-in-law, now his whole mind was on another matter.
Duke Yingguo Shizi faintly remembered that many years ago, one of his favorite concubines was also found to have an affair. At that time, the favorite concubine cried very badly. She kept crying that she fell into other people's trap, didn't know who put medicine on the wine, that she lost consciousness after drinking it. At that time, Duke Yingguo Shizi disdained her. He was furious for being cuckold, and only felt that this woman was quibbling. Later, the concubine was hurriedly dealt with a bowl of medicine, and in the deep courtyard, the dead was silent.
In fact, she was a concubine that Duke Yingguo Shizi liked very much. She was unbelievably lively, smart, and considerate. What a pity.
However, now that Duke Yingguo Shizi got the Yin Yang pot from his son-in-law, he suddenly remembered this past event. After so many years, Duke Yingguo Shizi's anger from wearing a green hat had been appeased, and he could finally sort out the cause and effect of this matter rationally. Were the signs of the favored concubine during that time really like having an affair with another man? Not necessarily.
Suddenly, Duke Yingguo Shizi did not dare to think about it anymore. Gao Ran used a yin yang pot to her concubine's room. Then in Duke Yingguo Mansion, who would attack his concubine? Where did Gao Ran inherit this yin yang pot, and even the medicine in the wine?
Duke Yingguo Shizi stood under the June's bright sunshine, stared blankly for a while before he finally felt himself standing on the ground. Suddenly a torrent of anger from being deceived burst out. He immediately ordered his right-hand man to go down and investigate the matter of his favorite concubine's adultery that year. A cold light appeared in Duke Yingguo Shizi's eyes. If he really found that someone was deceiving him, coax him into running around in circles for many years and let her be the biological mother of his only son. He would not spare her lightly.
Gu Hui Yan, Zhou Mao Cheng and others were walking on the winding corridor, Gu Hui Yan asked, "His Majesty going out to hunt again today?"
"Yes."
Gu Hui Yan sighed in a low voice, "Let the guards next to him follow him closely. Go down and remind Xia Lin in private that although His Majesty' wish is hard to disobey, once anything goes wrong, he will be the one who take the blame."
When the Emperor was out of the palace, of course the guards around him could not be careless. In addition to the Yulin Army, Gu Hui Yan also transferred a lot of personnel, among which Xia Lin who are his people. The Emperor had great trust in Yan Wang's army. In the past few days, he ran farther and farther. Even when the Empress Dowager heard that Yan Wang's people was following, she was relieved to let the Emperor go out.
The Emperor and courtiers were relieved, but Gu Hui Yan in here had a lot of trouble. It was him who vouched for the Emperor to go out. Don't look at First Assistant Zhang and other officials saying nothing now, but if something goes wrong, he couldn't escape the blame.
After Gu Hui Yan beaten down his subordinates, he asked the arrangement of the guards around the Emperor. They were detailed and clear, not one drop of water could leak out, but in the blink of an eye there were several loopholes. Zhou Mao Cheng hurriedly wrote it down one by one, and he secretly admired. The bunch of them had been scrutinizing the patrol list for a long time, and thought there was no leak. Who knew that Yan Wang just listened to it once and noticed the personnel conflict. Amazing, Zhou Mao Cheng was sincerely convinced.
Gu Hui Yan walked along the winding corridor, seemingly slow and leisurely, but the steps were almost equidistant, which immediately distinguished him from ordinary nobles. No matter how much those young master paid attention to demeanor and appearance, still could not take such upright and solemn steps.
"Gu Cheng Yao."
Gu Cheng Yao took a step forward: "The son is here."
"If the Emperor summons you to go hunting these few days, you can find any reason to refuse. Mandate of Heaven is hard to disobey, but also cannot indulge him to much, lest he really thinks he is omnipotent, and we will grant whatever he asked for."
In private, Gu Hui Yan's attitude towards the little Emperor did not like the respect and restraint he had shown. After hearing this, Gu Cheng Yao fell in awe, bowed his head and replied solemnly, "Yes."
"Since you can't accompany the Emperor to go hunting, it will be no good to accept the invitations from other families. You should not go hunting in the hunting ground these few days, if you want to ride a horse wait until we return to the capital."
"This son understand."
They were still talking when they suddenly saw a group of people walking across the winding corridor. When Lin Wei Xi saw Gu Hui Yan her eyes clearly brighten, and quickly greeted him: "Wangye."
This call was sweet and crisp, Gu Hui Yan's expression unconsciously became more relaxed. He caught Lin Wei Xi who was leaping over, looked at her and smiled: "Why are you here?"
Lin Wei Xi looked at him in surprise: "Is it not you that said you want to ride a horse in the hunting ground, I'll follow you."
Gu Hui Yan's smile unchanged, turning his head without saying a word to look at the people behind. Gu Mingda retreated to the back and asked a few people, and soon returned. Lin Wei Xi looked at these people curiously. It was rare to see the embarrassment on Gu Mingda's iceberg face. Gu Mingda clasped his fists and whispered: "Wangye, it's a small servant in the outer courtyard who was the problem. Wangye asked someone to find Shizi, to ask Shizi not to go to the hunting ground. He listened the wrong way, so he passed the wrong words to Wangfei."
Lin Wei Xi was immediately unwilling to hear this: "I have changed my clothes, you suddenly say not going?"
Upon seeing this, Gao Ran whispered to Lin Wei Xi, "Mother, since the servant passed the wrong word, let's go back."
It was alright if there was no expectation, but Lin Wei Xi excitedly get ready to go out to play, and suddenly it was canceled, the gap in her heart especially uncomfortable. She was fuming, looked up with round eyes and gave Gu Hui Yan a ferocious look.
Gu Hui Yan could only relent: "Since you want to go, let them enclose another place for you to play. Can you ride a horse?"
Lin Wei Xi was overjoyed and pleasantly surprise, "Really?"
"Really."
Lin Wei Xi's eyes lighted up, and if it weren't for so many people around, she would have pounced on Gu Hui Yan: "Thank you, Wangye! I can't ride a horse. Wangye, please teach me!"
Zhou Mao Cheng and Gu Mingda looked at each other in amazement, even Gu Cheng Yao found it incredible. What? A few seconds ago, didn't Gu Hui Yan just said not to go to the hunting ground during this time? Did Gu Hui Yan think all of them are deaf? Don't go back on your words so quickly!
The men tacitly kept silent, and followed behind silently, watching Yan Wangfei happily pulling Yan Wang to the stable.
Chapter 79 Part 1: Riding Together
Lin Wei Xi was a complete novice in riding, Gu Hui Yan personally picked a docile little mare for her in the stable. Lin Wei Xi glanced at Gu Hui Yan's majestic horse Zhao Xue, and accepted her fate.
In fact, Gao Ran also did not know how to ride a horse, but was it Gu Hui Yan problem? He did not pick a horse for Gao Ran. The hunting ground had been cleared up, the lawn in this area was smooth and soft, and the idlers nearby had been cleared away, ensuring that no one would come to disturb Yan Wangfei's mood. Lin Wei Xi watched her little mare eagerly, Gu Hui Yan said helplessly: "You have no foundation at all, so don't rush to get on the horse. It's more important to protect yourself."
"There is Wangye." Lin Wei Xi said confidently. Gu Hui Yan looked at her for a long time, and finally couldn't help laughing.
Lin Wei Xi made a lot of sense, Gu Hui Yan was there, that was the best protection.
Gu Hui Yan told Lin Wei Xi the tricks of getting on the horse in detail. Lin Wei Xi memorized it one by one, nodded like chicken pecking at the rice. In the end, she just felt her eyes sway, Gu Hui Yan turned over and sat on the horse. His movements were confident and nimble, without unnecessary moves.
Lin Wei Xi marveled. She imagined the movement several times in her mind, and realized that she had fully understand it, so she pushed away the servant's support, and stepped on the horse by herself. However, the body may not know what the brain knows. Lin Wei Xi had successfully imagine it, but when she stepped on the stirrup to get on the horse, her body swayed and no matter what, she couldn't turn her body over.
"Wangye..."
Gu Hui Yan got off from his horse and supported her behind him: "I'm here. Don't worry, I won't let you fall."
There were several maids supporting her, but Lin Wei Xi still felt that she was going to fall, but now Gu Hui Yan just said one thing, and Lin Wei Xi felt more at ease. Gu Hui Yan supported Lin Wei Xi's waist with one hand from behind, and the servants tactfully retreated, leaving space for these two people. The unrelated people were dispersed, the space was larger, so it was more conducive for Lin Wei Xi's movements. Lin Wei Xi completely forgot the trick Gu Hui Yan taught her just now. She hugged the horse's neck and used her hands and feet together, and climbed onto the horse's back indecently.
This horse was really gentle, and even after tossed around by Lin Wei Xi, it still stayed in place. Lin Wei Xi used to think that a novice was particularly terrified when leaning on the horse. She thought that she must straighten her waist to mount the horse, absolutely could not scream, clenching her mane and refusing to let go. But when Lin Wei Xi really sat on the horse, she realized that there was a huge difference between imagination and reality. Her center of gravity suddenly rose, and her feet could not touch the ground. Lin Wei Xi, a person who was not afraid of heights, felt scared.
"Let go and straighten up your waist slowly."
Lin Wei Xi clenched her mane tightly, delicately and pitifully exclaimed: "No, I will fall."
"No, be good, let go." Gu Hui Yan coaxed her patiently, "Give me your hand, hold my hand, and slowly straighten up."
Lin Wei Xi tentatively released a hand, and Gu Hui Yan's warm and powerful palm immediately caught her. Half of Lin Wei Xi's weight was put on Gu Hui Yan's hands, but his arm was still very stable, and it didn't even shake. Such a powerful arm gave people a strong sense of security, Lin Wei Xi borrowed Gu Hui Yan's strength to slowly sit upright on her horse.
After adapting for a while, Lin Wei Xi got used to this height, and her expression became more and more like flying. Gu Hui Yan handed the reins to the servant who raised the horse, let the servant lead along the horse and take her to walk slowly, while riding on Zhao Xue, he followed her on the other side.
Lin Wei Xi was learning to ride a horse, Gao Ran and Gu Cheng Yao stood not far away watching. It was inappropriate for them to step forward to help, and to have fun by themselves even more so. They had to wait in place and watch Lin Wei Xi being supported by Yan Wang to mount the horse. After slowly walked a distance, she could pick up the horse herself.
Seeing that there was no one around, Gao Ran took the opportunity to whisper to Gu Cheng Yao: "Shizi, my father is impatient and straightforward. If he offended Shizi with improper words today, please don't take it seriously."
Gu Cheng Yao gave a low "um" and said, "It's alright, I talk to father-in-law properly. You go ride a horse."
Gao Ran said 'Oh', she still wanted to say something, but seeing Gu Cheng Yao's calm and cold expression, in the end didn't say anything. She got on the horse under the guidance of the stables' servant, her maids loudly cheering on her from behind. Gao Ran was the Shizi Consort, the stables' people certainly couldn't touch her, but Gao Ran's maid was also the inner house's womenfolk, where they understands this kind of thing, it was impossible to compare with Yan Wang's professionalism. Gao Ran took a lot of effort and wanted to give up several times before sitting on the horse.
However, after this experience, Gao Ran showed little interest in riding, not to mention she didn't have the mood of riding a horse slowly like Lin Wei Xi. She couldn't help but look up, sitting on the horse she had a wider sight. Gao Ran saw that Lin Wei Xi held the reins by herself, riding the horse to slowly walk, the groom was trotting behind, and Gu Hui Yan was always following her by the side.
Gao Ran let the servant to pull the horse a few steps. She was really uninterested in this kind of smelly and unattractive sport. She just walked two steps then let the maid half supported half carried her to dismount.
On the other side, Lin Wei Xi held the reins and slowly urge the horse to move forward. This feeling was very novel, and it gave Lin Wei Xi an unprecedented sense of accomplishment. This sense of accomplishment was far more enjoyable than writing a good calligraphy or make a fine embroidery. Lin Wei Xi rarely done such intense exercise. In fact, not only Lin Wei Xi, for the womenfolk walking two steps in the courtyard was all the amount of activity in a day.
A thin layer of sweat came out on Lin Wei Xi's back. After exercising, her cheeks were rosy, her eyes were bright, and she looked very energetic. Lin Wei Xi even controlled the horse to trot two steps forward. Lin Wei Xi was surprised and subconsciously turned around to share with others. When she turned around, she saw Gu Hui Yan not far away, looking at her with a smile.
When riding a horse, you should not go too close, otherwise it would interfere with both of the horses. In order not to disturb Lin Wei Xi, Gu Hui Yan had been moving around not far away, but always kept the distance in case unexpected accident happened, he could rush over immediately. Lin Wei Xi bumped into Gu Hui Yan's line of sight, and her mind suddenly thought, he had been looking at her like this for a long time?
Lin Wei Xi couldn't tell what kind of feeling in her heart. She turned her head around like she was frightened, her chest throbbing, and there was a sense of uncontrollable confusion in her heart. She became a little distracted, and for a moment didn't pay attention to the strength of her hands. The horse thought it was the master's instruction, and ran forward a few steps quickly.
Lin Wei Xi's center of gravity slammed back and she was startled, couldn't help but scream. Gu Hui Yan quickly caught up from behind and grabbed Lin Wei Xi's rein from the side.
"Don't be afraid, you have to trust your horse, it won't hurt you."
Lin Wei Xi lowered her head and gave an 'um'. Gu Hui Yan turned around to look at her and asked, "What's wrong, you were fine just now. What did you think about?"
"I didn't think about anything." Lin Wei Xi didn't want to say, she felt that she had fallen into a very dangerous situation. In the deep inner courtyard, women who had their heart moved would inevitably become battered and bruised. Men always have a way out, but women don't.
Chapter 79 Part 2: Riding Together
Gu Hui Yan didn't insisted, but he had already thinking, what he said or did that accidently affect Lin Wei Xi? Lin Wei Xi walked side by side with Gu Hui Yan for a while, and gradually no longer satisfied with such a slow pace, she said, "Wangye, I want to run faster."
"No, you still can't control this speed. Although this place has been cleaned up as a imperial hunting ground, the surrounding terrain is complicated and many places are still very dangerous."
Lin Wei Xi refused to admit defeat: "I can."
Gu Hui Yan sighed and stretched out his hand to her: "Come here, I will take you for a run."
Lin Wei Xi was stunned for a moment before realizing that Gu Hui Yan wanted to carry her on his Zhao Xue. That's Zhao Xue, Yan Wang was famous for his love of horses, and he would never allow anyone touch his warhorse. Lin Wei Xi's eyes were shining, she was both excited and uneasy: "Can I?"
"Of course."
Lin Wei Xi couldn't help but want to jump immediately, but she looked around: "How do I get down... Ahh!"
Before Lin Wei Xi finished speaking, she felt her waist tighten, and she was picked by Gu Hui Yan, and placed sideway in front of him. Zhao Xue was much taller than her little mare, Lin Wei Xi suddenly lost her strength, and subconsciously climbed to the only support: "Wangye..."
"It's okay, relax, Zhao Xue won't let you fall."
Lin Wei Xi still tightly encircled Gu Hui Yan's arms and shoulders. Gu Hui Yan let Zhao Xue take two steps. When Lin Wei Xi got used to this speed, he suddenly accelerated and galloped across the endless grassland.
The speed suddenly increased, and the wind rushed towards her. Lin Wei Xi pressed her face tightly on Gu Hui Yan's chest, too scared to look up. Only the whistling wind could be heard in her ears, as if the whole world was far away from them, only Gu Hui Yan's heartbeat, firm and clear, resounded strongly in her world.
The wind speed was extremely high, one could imagine how fast they were running. Lin Wei Xi had never seen this kind of speed. She was instinctively afraid of falling down, but Gu Hui Yan's arms were always firmly surrounded her, warm and powerful, as indestructible as iron.
Lin Wei Xi gradually calmed down. She raised her head from Gu Hui Yan's body, holding his shoulder with one hand while looking out to the outside world.
The wind on the grassland rushed toward her face, with the unique fragrance of the evening's warmth and the green grass, unspeakably comfortable. Lin Wei Xi became more and more adapted to this state, and the smile on her face bloomed.
"Wangye, is Zhao Xue a Maxima? (tn: horse that can run thousands-miles a day) It runs really fast."
"Traveling a thousand of miles during the day, and eight hundred miles at night." After Gu Hui Yan finished speaking, he tightened his reins abruptly, Zhao Xue's front hoofs shot to the sky, hissed in the air, turned sharply and ran back without slowing down.
Lin Wei Xi's body rose into the air and she couldn't help screaming. After she calmed down, Lin Wei Xi clutched her heart and angrily pinched Gu Hui Yan's arm: "What are you doing, scared me to death!"
Gu Hui Yan gave a low laugh, his chest trembling, even if ones couldn't see his expression, ones could guess that he was extremely happy now: "Zhao Xue run fast, and if we go further, the place is not cleared. There are too many idlers, being bothered by them is too troublesome."
Lin Wei Xi also didn't want to be disturbed when she was riding with Gu Hui Yan, but don't think that Lin Wei Xi could forgive him by saying this. Lin Wei Xi snorted softly, "You just make excuse for yourself. I also know you did it on purpose."
Gu Hui Yan smiled. He freed one hand and steered the horse with one hand. while the other hand rubbed Lin Wei Xi's head: "The temper still quiet big. I was wrong. Don't be angry."
Lin Wei Xi curled her lips and didn't want to pay attention to him. After a while they could gradually see the other figures, Gu Hui Yan slowed down and let Zhao Xue slowly paced back.
Wan Xing and Wan Yue saw Lin Wei Xi subconsciously want to welcome her, but when they saw Wangfei was sitting on Yan Wang's horse, they didn't know whether they should disturb or not. While they were still hesitating, Gu Hui Yan had already reined his horse, nimbly got off the horse, and hugged Lin Wei Xi to come down.
Lin Wei Xi blushed and her eyes were washed with excitement, astonishingly gorgeous. Everyone who saw her gave a chuckle in their hearts. Wan Xing and Wan Yue surrounded Lin Wei Xi and asked after her, the entire lawn instantly became lively. Gu Cheng Yao and Gao Ran also walked over slowly. Gu Hui Yan stood on one side, and when he saw Gu Cheng Yao and his wife pay respect, he just nodded as the answer.
Wan Xing and Wan Yue roughly swept away the dust on Lin Wei Xi's body, and then the maids dispersed. Lin Wei Xi then saw Gu Cheng Yao and Gao Ran. Gao Ran stepped forward to greet Lin Wei Xi. Lin Wei Xi nodded and said, "You are considerate, I am not uncomfortable. It's not early, go back to the house."
Everyone got Lin Wei Xi's words, simultaneously agreed, and then turned like spinning top. The people gradually dispersed. Lin Wei Xi saw Gu Cheng Yao move his left shoulder. Her years of education made her notice the small movements of others at all times, and promptly deliver the most appropriate words of concern. Lin Wei Xi said casually: "Shizi takes care of your body and pay attention to the wound."
Gu Cheng Yao was taken aback for a moment, and said, "Thanking mother for the reminder."
The people ahead was ready, Lin Wei Xi walked past Gu Cheng Yao to find Gu Hui Yan. Gu Cheng Yao watched Lin Wei Xi walk away, his expression still calm, but his fingers already cold since long ago.
He accidentally fell from a rock when he was a child and left an injury on his left shoulder. Because he sneaked out by himself, he never told the adults. He never took the initiative to talk about this wound, Gu Hui Yan didn't know, even the servants and the maids in Gu Cheng Yao's courtyard also didn't know the truth.
Except for Gao Xi and Gao Ran, it was inevitable for those two people to see. If Gao Ran knew it was not strange, but Gao Ran wouldn't tell her mother-in-law these details. Then, how did Lin Wei Xi know that he had an old wound on his left shoulder?
Of course, in fact, this matter was more likely to be Gu Cheng Yao's own thinking. He was punished by Yan Wang a few days ago with a wound on his back. Lin Wei Xi was actually talking about this. But Gu Cheng Yao was bewitched and fell into a crazy thought. Lin Wei Xi's words and actions were nothing like a person who had been sick since she was little and grew up in the village. She fit perfectly with the rich and honorable Yan Wang Mansion, as if she originally belongs there. Remarks could be falsify, but the person' natural temperament and demeanor could not deceive.
Could a woman whose mother died prematurely, who had been sick for many years and was raised by an eccentric aunt, really cultivate such a calm and noble temperament?
Chapter 80 Part 1: Di Daugther
On a silent summer night, Han shi was sitting under the window sewing clothes. It was strange, even though there was no wind, but the candlestick at the corner of the table suddenly jumped. When Han shi shaken by the candle, she accidentally stabbed her hand.
Han shi screamed and put her fingertips in her mouth. She complained secretly in her heart, seeing blood at night was really unlucky.
Han shi was carefully looking at the wound on her fingertips, suddenly heard the call from the little maid outside. Han shi was pleasantly surprised: "Shizi is here?"
Duke Yingguo Mansion went to the Summer Palace. As the invisible mistress of Shizi's courtyard, Han shi also honorably followed. But in these years she had gotten older, and the number of days Duke Yingguo Shizi spent the night with her were very few. Sudden visits like tonight even rarer.
Han shi threw down the half-finish needlework, and welcomed at the door happily. The smile was all over her face, but seeing the look of Duke Yingguo Shizi, Han shi was taken aback: "Shizi?"
Who made Shizi angry? He seems so upset.
Han shi muttered to herself, but did not take it to heart. She eagerly waited on Duke Yingguo Shizi to take a seat, and then went to make tea for him, the whole person was busy like a spinning top.
Duke Yingguo Shizi looked at her back coldly, Han shi turned around and talked to Shizi without any clue, suddenly startled by his eyes. Han shi gradually felt scared, and with great difficulty she smiled and said, "Shizi, what's the matter with you? Why do you look at this concubine with such a look?"
Duke Yingguo Shizi looked at her for a moment then said indifferently: "It's nothing. You don't need to be busy, sit down, I have something to tell you."
Han shi was flattered, and the expression on her face was shy and joyful like sixteen years old girl: "Shizi, you are the master and this slave is just a concubine. It's not good to sit next to you..."
Duke Yingguo Shizi didn't have the patience to listen anymore. If in the past he used to like Han shi's gentle girl attitude, but now when he looked he only felt sick. Since she didn't want to sit, it was also rare for Duke Yingguo Shizi to take care of her. He asked directly: "How much do you know about Yun Niang's matters back then?"
The smile on Han shi's face froze. After a while, she reacted and quickly covered her mouth with a kerchief, pretending to cough: "Cough, this concubine caught a cold last night, let Shizi laugh... Why did you suddenly ask about Yun Niang? The events of long time ago, this concubine already forget."
"Forget?" Duke Yingguo Shizi furiously smiled. He threw out the thing in his sleeves with a bang. The wine pot was slender and exquisite, and its main body was carved with intricate and gorgeous patterns from Western Regions, it looked very beautiful. "If you really forget, then I will help you remember it, didn't Yun Niang happen to be drinking with you before the accident?"
When Han shi saw the special wine pot, she panicked. Her superficial skills were far worse than her daughter, and it showed on her face. Duke Yingguo Shizi understood when he saw Han shi's expression. Han shi knelt on the ground in panic, her eyes turned quickly: "Shizi, what are you talking about, why don't this concubine understand at all."
"Until now, you still pretend not to understand me?" Duke Yingguo Shizi was very angry. He was so angry not because Yun Niang was framed, but because he had been deceived for so many years. A concubine died, that was nothing, but he was deceived by someone like a fool for ten years. He also treated them the mother and son sincerely, which made Duke Yingguo Shizi really unable to accept. When he thought that he totally devoted to these people, maybe Han shi was still laughing with her children behind his back.
Duke Yingguo Shizi's face was like black iron. He poured two cups of wine out of the pot, pointed to the two cups in front of him and said to Han shi: "If you really innocent, then choose one of the two cups. As long as you drink it, I will believe you."
Han shi looked at the two cups of wine in front of her that looked exactly the same, her face turned pale little by little. Of course she understood the specialty of this wine pot. The outside of the wine pot looks ordinary, but there was a hidden container inside. As long as you worked on the handle a little bit, you could change the wine that came out without anyone knowing. Where did Han shi know this kind of thing in the first place, nevertheless Gao Ran said that it was called the Yin Yang pot, and Han shi realized there was such a sophisticated mechanism in this world.
Han shi couldn't help thinking about Shizi's movements. He moved very quickly when he poured the wine. Which cup was normal and which one was poisonous? In front of Duke Yingguo Shizi, Han shi tremblingly raised one of the cup, but she couldn't drink it when it reached her lips. She couldn't help wondering, did she make a mistake just now? What if Shizi put the poisoned wine in the other wine container?
Cold sweat formed on Han shi's forehead. She suddenly slammed the cup and looked at Duke Yingguo Shizi with a terrified expression: "Shizi, this slave gave birth to a son and a daughter for you. Chen boy is still young. How can you treat your concubine like this?"
Duke Yingguo Shizi closed his eyes in despair, and his last thread of hope was shattered. All this was true. Han shi really had a heart of snakes and scorpions. In order to win his love she killed Yun Niang, and afterwards she came to comfort him. This woman had cheated him until now, truly abominable!
"Both cups are ordinary fruit wine." Duke Yingguo Shizi looked at her, in his eyes didn't know whether it was pity or sorrow. In front of Han shi, Duke Yingguo Shizi drank both cups of wine at the same time.
Han shi's face turned white, and then slowly turned red. She crawled to Duke Yingguo Shizi, in attempt to beg: "Shizi, this slave doesn't know anything. This slave thought you were going to poison me, so I didn't dare to drink it."
"If you don't know the mystery of this wine pot, why did you hesitate when choosing the wine? After you choose it, you still didn't dare to drink it." Duke Yingguo Shizi's voice contained unspeakable disappointment, "Up to now, you still want to lie to me."
"Shizi..."
"I always thought you are kind and weak, and I always worry that you will be bullied in the house. Oh, now thinking about I'm really an idiot. You can silently put people to death, how could you be bullied? How many times have you deceived me with your hypocritical face all these years?"
"No, this slave didn't." Han shi's tears were streaming down, she knelt on the ground and kept shaking her head. "This slave doesn't know anything, this slave is wronged."
Duke Yingguo Shizi looked at the tear-stained beauty at his feet, somehow felt hate and disgust bubble up. He felt deeply tired. Over the years, he always spoiled Han shi, and even favored Han shi's children, but what did he actually favor? He originally had some hope, although Han shi's schemes was not right, but the children was always innocent. However, Gao Ran followed the footsteps and used the same method to frame his son-in-law's concubine, which made Duke Yingguo Shizi couldn't deceive himself. Gao Ran knew this, then those mother and daughter joined forces to lie to him.
For all these years, he had always gave Gao Ran the best care, and he even snubbed his di daughter for her. As long as Gao Xi had it, Duke Yingguo Shizi would have someone prepare the same thing for Gao Ran. If it was the thing given by the Grand Princess, Duke Yingguo Shizi made a lot of effort and always personally compensate Gao Ran. He almost blatantly favored Gao Ran, was it not because he felt that Han shi and Gao Ran this mother and daughter were weak. Gao Ran was not like Gao Xi, who was independent and capable, and she was a shu daughter. If he as the father didn't protect her, Gao Ran would be bullied to death by people in the Duke Mansion.
Duke Yingguo Shizi couldn't help but think back to what he had done over the years. The concubine that he thought quiet and modest was actually the cruelest, and the daughter that he thought was weak and sensible, in fact, could send another woman to death without blinking. For them he treated his wife coldly, snubbed his di daughter, had a reputation for favoring the concubines and neglecting the wife, and even killed his wife by accident.
Chapter 80 Part 2: Di Daugther
"Well, you mother and daughter are very good." Duke Yingguo Shizi stood up and sneered again and again. "That Chen boy, has been instigated by you since childhood to scheme me his father and scheme his half di sister!"
"No." Han shi painfully cried out, without manners, tears and snots, hand and feet crawled towards Duke Yingguo Shizi, "Chen boy, he doesn't know anything, he really admires you as a father. Shizi, this thousand mistakes are this slave's fault, don't be angry with Chen boy for this."
Han shi kept talking about Gao Chen. Duke Yingguo Shizi sneered, really feeling sad: "You are pleading for Gao Chen, are you afraid that I will have opinions on him and will not leave him Shizi's position? Oh, no wonder, it turns out you have been aiming for this all these years." Duke Yingguo Shizi laughed sarcastically. He suddenly changed his voice, and his words were as sharp as a knife: "The year Gao Chen was born, you fainted in the ancestral hall, at that time was you really not know that Wei shi was pregnant?"
Han shi suddenly paused: "This concubine..."
"You know." Duke Yingguo Shizi looked at Han shi's expression, his tone was calm. After speaking, he suddenly became furious: "You really know! You know that she is pregnant, but you still push me to find her. Later, she miscarriage our di son. Are you happy that I finally gave the position to your son?"
Han shi shook her head desperately and her lips kept saying "I don't", but everyone knew that this sentence had no credibility at all. Duke Yingguo Shizi felt a burst of pain coming from his four limbs and his bones, first blunt, and then almost gouging his heart and devour his bones. In that conflict, he personally killed his and Wei shi's child, and then Wei shi also died. His wife was born noble, beautiful and dignified, and she always dismissed him, cold and indifferent, but he killed her.
Duke Yingguo Shizi was trembling all over, gradually couldn't control himself. All these years he had shown that he didn't care, and he wanted to tell everyone that he did not regret or feel guilty. He had pretended for more than ten years, and gradually everyone believe that he had no affection for Wei Shi, and had forgotten about this wife, but he could not lie to himself.
He didn't remarry after Wei shi's death, and let his direct di line be severed. The Duke Yingguo reminded him many times that only his di son could inherit the equal rank, and if it was a shu son, he would be demoted one or two ranks. In other words, if he passed the position of Shizi to Gao Chen, then the Duke position of the Gao family would be lowered to the rank of Marquis, or even lower.
But his wife was dead, and he unlikely to have any more sons. Even the year before last, Wei Shi and his only blood line, Gao Xi, died. There was no way to recover his mistake.
Duke Yingguo Shizi had dull pain in his chest and could hardly stand. He didn't want to let others see him like this. He suddenly lifted his foot, kicked Han shi who was holding his leg, and walked over with large strides: "You murdered a concubine, harmed the di bloodline, and deliberately framed your mistress. When I report to my mother tomorrow, I will let the servant sell you."
"Shizi!" Han shi fell on the ground, ignoring the wound on her stomach, and hurriedly chased after Duke Yingguo Shizi. But how could she catch up, in a blink of an eye Duke Yingguo Shizi went out.
The maid hiding outside the room called out "Yiniang" timidly, and Han shi felt the pain in her lower abdomen. She couldn't straighten her belly and waist, but at this time, she had no time to think about her injury. She was full of thoughts. If Shizi told Duke Yingguo old madam tomorrow, would she really be sold? Could the Duke Yinnguo's title still fall to Gao Chen's hands?
Duke Yingguo Shizi's face was pale, he scolded his attendant away, and led his horse to gallop in the night breeze. He couldn't distinguish the direction in the dark, and he didn't want to recognize it clearly. He kept pumping his horse, and gradually his horse's speed soared to an uncontrollable level. The night breeze was already a little painful on his face, and Duke Yingguo Shizi let his thoughts wander. He was only seventeen when he married Wei shi. It was when the young man had high spirit. At that time, he thought his newly married wife looks very good, but he didn't like her temper. Later, their daughter Gao Xi was born. During the time when Gao Xi was born, their husband and wife reached an unprecedented harmony, but the good times did not last long. Later, Duke Yingguo old madam disliked that Wei shi was arrogant and said that she would raise Gao Xi. How could Wei shi not refuse, it seems that since then, the husband and wife relationship between him and Wei shi became irretrievably worsened until it slipped into the abyss.
Gao Xi and Gao Ran were very different. Gao Xi had always been headstrong since she was a child, and her character was stronger than her mother. Gao Xi was close to Wei shi and had a strong temper. He always feels very boring when facing this di daughter and had no authority as the father, so gradually, he preferred to talk to Gao Ran. After Wei shi died, he actually thought about making up with Gao Xi, but Gao Xi always showed disappointment and resentment when she saw him, constantly reminding him how Wei shi died.
As a result, Duke Yingguo Shizi avoided Gao Xi more and more. In the end, even when father and daughter stood face to face they had nothing to say. On the contrary, Gao Ran often showed a young daughter's delicateness to him, as if Gao Ran was his di daughter.
After Gao Xi married into Yan Wang Mansion, Duke Yingguo Shizi was undoubtedly relieved. That's good. She married well and didn't have to see her father again in the future. It's a joy for everyone. Later, he heard that Gao Xi and the only son of Yan Wang didn't get along. Duke Yingguo Shizi subconsciously felt that it was Gao Xi's problem. Gao Xi's character was too tough. As for going to Yan Wang Mansion to support Gao Xi? There was Grand Princess Shou Kang.
Duke Yingguo Shizi felt pain again when he thought of this, and felt very shameful. When Gao Xi was dying in Yan Wang Mansion, he felt that Gao Xi's maternal family was high and always had someone to help her out, so he let himself be immersed in his own affairs. But half a month ago, he heard that Gao Ran was coldly treated by his son-in-law, and he went to settle accounts almost immediately. Now thinking about it, he as a father couldn't distinguish between true or false, couldn't recognize people clearly, and regards fish eyes as treasures, but neglected his true treasure, which was simply sad and funny.
Duke Yingguo Shizi closed his eyes, and let the almost crazy horse lead him into the dark night.
Early the next morning, Duke Yingguo old madam got up and found that her son had not come to pay respect. She didn't take it seriously. Sons and daughter-in-laws were different. If the son slept in and didn't come to give morning greeting, the old madam wouldn't blame him, instead felt sorry for her tired son. At noon, the young manservant in Shizi's courtyard came to report that Shizi had not returned, and the old madam felt that the matter was a bit serious.
"Shizi didn't return last night?"
"Yes."
The old madam frowned. She thought that her son had a lot of friends, and it was common for him to stay away from home for a few days. Maybe he stayed at a friend's house last night. Duke Yingguo old madam said: "Maybe he drank wine last night, and still haven't woken up yet. When Shizi comes back, you should report to me immediately."
"Yes."
Something like this happened before, but somehow this time Duke Yingguo old madam's heart was restless, and gradually she couldn't sit still. The old madam called the servants in her son's courtyard three times, and every time there was no news. Duke Yingguo old madam finally lost her temper and said: "You go to the houses of the families whom Shizi have good relationship with. Whatever the case get Shizi to come home. If still want to have fun, let's talk about it tomorrow, now go home first. How can he not go home for two days in a row."
The servants ran out in response. Gradually, the sun went down and the stars moved eastward, but the news from the returning servants became more and more unfavorable: "Old madam, this one has gone ask to several families, and several young masters have said that they have not seen Shizi."
Han shi brought Gao Chen to greet the old madam, and when she heard the words inside, her fingers curled up lightly. Duke Yingguo old madam saw Han shi and asked, "Did you see Shizi yesterday?"
Han shi's face was tense, and she said carefully: "This slave saw Shizi last night, and then Shizi went out again, hasn't Shizi returned yet?"
"People hasn't seen his shadow all day and night." Duke Yingguo old madam looked anxious and angry. "He is really, where he went, why he didn't send the words to his family. Do you know where he went?"
Han shi opened her mouth, but suddenly stopped. Duke Yingguo old madam just asked casually, and did not really expect Han shi to know the answer, so she also missed the hesitation on Han shi's face. In the end, Han shi closed her mouth and bowed her head and said, "This concubine doesn't know. Perhaps Shizi went drinking somewhere, old madam doesn't need to worry, wait for Shizi to come back."
Duke Yingguo old madam sighed like she was grumbling.