Call Me the Mother of Quick Transmigration

by Usui Takumii

not mine, from bubble tea translations.wordpress.

12. 111 to 120

Chapter 111 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 11)

In fact, everyone was smart. At that time, they were immersed in the story and had no time to think about it. After thinking about it, Wang Si Qin probably understood the purpose of Li Su's story.

During this period of time, the men were nothing more than men. The female spouses led by Princess Qing Shan knew the character of Si Qin. Si Qin was a clever and witty child who was good at observing words and feelings. She was good at being considerate. In just a few days, it was obvious that the old madam had affection for her.

It was just that they weren't sure if this intelligence was a good or bad thing for this child.

Princess Qing Shan and the others thought that it wouldn't be a bad thing to wait longer and slowly guide and educate her.

Now, it seemed that Su Su was long aware of this issue and had begun to act on it. The method Su Su used was entertaining, which was very good.

"What is the princess thinking?" After washing, Yong An Mansion's Xiao Qi Zhi came in.

Princess Qing Shan smiled. "I was just thinking that Su Su is a clever child. Qin'er's intelligence takes after Su Su."

"Of course. Su Su was literate at the age of two and could recite the entire Book of Songs at the age of three. Zhen Yuan is no better than her in this respect. It is a pity, alas! Good luck!" Xiao Qi Zhi sighed.

"The hard times are over and the good times are just beginning!1" Princess Qing Shan persuaded.

"I asked you to pay attention to things. Were there signs of a positive outcome?" Xiao Qi Zhi asked.

Princess Qing Shan sighed. "I have been paying attention. However, I heard Su Su's intentions to not marry again."

"She doesn't plan on marrying again? How can this be? She is still so young!" Xiao Qi Zhi frowned. She was his only niece!

"Who knows? I guess it is because she is afraid that a future husband would treat Qin'er badly," said Princess Qing Shan.

"Who would dare?!" Xiao Qi Zhi said angrily. Then, he thought of something. "The second one has not been married before, so it was fine letting him marry Su Su. If she marries to her uncle's house, then is she still afraid someone will treat Qin'er badly?!"

Princess Qing Shan frowned. She didn't dislike the idea of Li Su remarrying. Father emperor wanted to marry the second one to his daughter, An Yi. The second one didn't like how An Yi was arrogant and domineering, so he pretended to be ashamed and insisted on refusing to let her get married.

Princess Qing Shan was sure that the second one's relationship with Su Su was just a sibling relationship and nothing more, or she would have been happy to match them.

"I hope you'll do well in this matter. When the second one comes back and asks, it is better to ask for Su Su's opinion. I think that my niece is not a traditional woman," said Princess Qing Shan.

Xiao Qi Zhi still trusted and respected Princess Qing Shan a lot. He just casually said that the second one's temper was out of control and feared that he wouldn't be a good match for Su Su. It wasn't a good thing to force them to be related if they did not get along. "I just said it casually. I know that the second one is just a brother to Su Su. Alas, if Su Su is really unwilling to get married, then there is no need to get married. Also, if she gets married, then she would be subject to many traditional constraints. In short, if Su Su remains in Yong An Mansion for an extra day, then she can be sheltered for an extra day."

When this was mentioned, Xiao Qi Zhi became angry. The Wang family dared to abuse Su Su like this! It was too much! Fortunately, Zhen Ting had already taken action, otherwise…

Princess Qing Shan laughed when she heard this. They had no daughters and neither did second younger brother. Only Ling'er had a daughter. The two brothers and brother-in-laws got drunk and cried. They said that they were distressed that Su Su would marry out in the future. What if her in-laws were no good?

Everyone thought it was a joke at the time. They never expected it to come true.

"Okay, if Su Su refuses to marry, then she shouldn't marry! Anyway, she has a career, a family, and Qin'er." Princess Qing Shan smiled.

"The princess is enlightened! The princess is the best!" said Xiao Qi Zhi as he held Princess Qing Shan's hand.

Princess Qing Shan blushed.

The couple went to sleep.

In Peaceful Courtyard, Xiao Zhen Ting laughed when he heard Mrs. Wan's recollection of the story told by his cousin today. "It is weird! You aren't worrying about it now?"

Xiao Zhen Ting leaned on the couch and touched Mrs. Wan's stomach, which was not yet pregnant, and smiled.

Mrs. Wan said, "Don't worry. If I have a daughter, then I also want her to be like the characters in the story my cousin told. Why should women only stay in the house and teach each other? Women can also make contributions."

"Yes, yes, you are right." Xiao Zhen Ting smiled. "It's late. Go to bed! Don't you want to get up early to listen to the story?"

Mrs. Wan nodded. "You're right. It's time to go to bed!"

"You go to bed first. I still have some official duties so I will come back when I finish." Xiao Zhen Ting smiled.

After Mrs. Wan fell asleep, Xiao Zhen Ting exited the house.

Back in the study, he took out a letter from the drawer. It was sent by his second older brother, Xiao Zhen Shu. When he was on the way to find his cousin, Xiao Zhen Shu received the news that his cousin had been found and was overjoyed. He heard that his cousin had fallen into the water and lost her memory. She was then rescued by a farmer and later married that farmer and had a daughter. But, she was abused by her husband's family.

Xiao Zhen Shu was furious. He originally wanted to return to the capital and take a detour to Shang Lin Village. The Wang family received the punishment they deserved and he sent a letter informing his family of the good news. He then returned to the capital.

Xiao Zhen Shu didn't do anything really. He just dropped the purse containing hundreds of silver taels on the road where the Wang family's previous grandson, Da Ge Er, was passing by. Then, he watched Da Ge Er take the silver to use it to eat, drink, have fun, and even hook up with a young widow.

Not long after, the young widow said she was pregnant.

Da Ge Er returned home and wanted to break off the engagement. The Fang family's cousin couldn't bear the humiliation. She threw a tantrum and accidentally hung herself. The Fang family and the Wang family turned against each other. Mrs. Wang Fang and Mrs. Xiao Fang were in an awkward predicament. The Wang family was a mess.

Later, in order to avenge their daughter/younger sister, Mrs. Xiao Fang's brothers and nephews found Da Ge Er and the young widow, and beat them up badly. Da Ge Er naturally did not let himself be beaten and resisted. In the chaos, Da Ge Er was stabbed with a knife by someone and fell into a pool of blood. The young widow was injured and lost her child.

After the Wang family heard that Da Ge Er had died, they went crazy. Wang Da Shan and Wang Da Lang took their sickles and pickaxes and went to the Fang family to avenge him. The Fang family's father and son had a background of killing pigs. Wang Da Shan and Wang Da Lang were beaten to the ground and Wang Da Lang had a broken leg. Mrs. Wang Fang and Mrs. Xiao Fang fainted when they heard the news. After they woke up, they ran to the Fang family's house. When Mrs. Xiao Fang saw this scene, she hit her head and died at the door of the Fang manor.

The Fang family killed someone, so they would naturally go to prison.

But the Wang Family was broken. People had died and it didn't stop there. After Wang Da Shan and Mrs. Wang Fang returned, they discovered that their home had been looted and their belongings had disappeared. Da Ya, an idle bastard in the village, was conscientious. He eloped and took his younger sister with him.

The Wang Family yelled at him but they couldn't do anything.

After that, Xiao Zhen Shu didn't continue watching. He just knew that the Wang family would not have a good ending. On the way back, Xiao Zhen Shu heard that the Wang family was planning on letting Wang Da Lang marry someone else so he could have a son earlier. But, the Wang family was now worth nothing. Wang Da Lang was now lame, so who would be willing to marry their daughter to him?

After Xiao Zhen Ting read the letter, he was very happy. Great!

Xiao Zhen Shu said that everything in Shang Lin Village were things of the past for Li Su and Wang Si Qin. Now that they were in the past, they should not be mentioned to the two of them.

Xiao Zhen Ting disagreed. The child was thoughtful. If she did not know, then he was afraid that she would still have ideas in her heart.

Xiao Zhen Ting thought this way. On the second day when he went to Auspicious Purple Hall, he quietly found Li Su and Wang Si Qin, and explained to them what happened to the Wang family.

It didn't mean anything to Li Su. Wang Si Qin felt happy inwardly. The Wang family having such a fate made her really happy!

"Thank you, second older brother and fourth older brother," said Li Su.

Xiao Zhen Ting was paying attention to Li Su's expression. When he saw this, he asked, "Cousin doesn't seem to be surprised by this result?"

Li Su smiled. "If second and fourth older brother didn't take action, the Wang family would have found itself in such a state sooner or later. It was just a matter of time. Nobody knows those people better than I do. They are selfish and greedy. Their easy life was obtained by exploiting us. Er Lang is dead. We are gone. That family is bound to be destroyed sooner or later."

Xiao Zhen Ting smiled. "Cousin is still thorough."

This matter did not need to be mentioned.

Just after breakfast, the old madam, Princess Qing Shan, and Mrs. Liu waited for Li Su to start her story.

Li Su continued with her story.

The good times didn't last long. Perhaps it was because there was too much to talk about, but on the third day, Li Su's throat started to become sore. In the end, she couldn't speak.

The old madam was upset and distressed again, so she hurriedly asked the doctor to come over to treat Li Su.

Li Su didn't think it was a problem. She was the one who suggested storytelling. In addition to pleasing the old madam, it was also to educate Si Qin. She was just not thoughtful enough, so it turned out like this.

The imperial doctor said that Li Su had used her voice too much.

Since the old madam couldn't listen to the story anymore, she felt that her life was dull once more. When Li Su saw this, she thought of something. She wrote down these stories and then showed them to the other women in the house so they could make them into books and tell them to the old madam. In order to relieve the old madam's boredom, there were several storytellers. The old madam didn't like reading, so this made everyone happy.

The biggest dissatisfaction Li Su had about the system was that the skills she learned in each world could not be brought to the next world. The only skills she could bring with her were the skills she originally knew. Every time she entered a new world and her host had no idea how to do something, Li Su had to learn it again.

Such as writing.

Fortunately, although the original owner had lost her memory, some of her memories recovered when she held the brush. After Li Su and Si Qin studied together for a few days, they could write some commonly used words. So, Li Su started the daily routine of writing a storybook while she studied.

Chapter 112 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 12)

Although progress was slow, Li Su found this was a lot easier.

A few days later, Mrs. Yang and Mrs. Qin found Li Su. After the greeting, Mrs. Yang asked, "Next month is my grandmother's birthday. She likes for it to be lively. She likes watching shows and listening to stories on weekdays. Would younger sister mind…"

When Li Su heard those words, she knew what Mrs. Yang wanted. She smiled. "I understand what cousin means. It's fine. Just take it."

Mrs. Yang and Mrs. Qin sighed in relief. "Thank you, younger sister."

Li Su suddenly had an idea. "Sister-in-law, is there a theatre troupe in the house?"

Mrs. Yang nodded. "Yes, there is a troupe in the house. Does younger sister have any ideas?"

Li Su smiled. "It's better to let the troupe in the house to arrange these words into a play. They can act and sing. If you like, you can borrow the opera troupe for a few days. Won't it be lively?" If they had a good relationship, then they should borrow it. If they had a normal relationship, then one would rent it. This was a favour if one ignored the money! But, these words were hard to say bluntly. She believed that Mrs. Yang and Mrs. Qin were wise and could come up with this on their own.

Yong An Mansion's family had a large family business that was not easy to maintain. Li Su had her own business, a few stores, she had a lot of income every year. But, she and Si Qin did not pay a penny. They lived in the mansion. Li Su was a little embarrassed and wanted to add some income to the mansion.

Mrs. Yang and Mrs. Qin's eyes lit up. They didn't expect this. "Young sister, this is a good idea." If they really could arrange these into a play, then it could be shown in many places. It would also benefit the mansion.

"Thank you, younger sister. I will arrange a play for the Yang family to watch," Mrs. Yang said with a smile.

Li Su nodded. "I don't know much about these things. Sister-in-laws are the ones who will decide."

Mrs. Yang and Mrs. Qin went to find Princess Qing Shan. When Princess Qing Shan heard this, she thought it was a good idea and immediately allowed Mrs. Yang to arrange it. At the end of the year when empress mother's birthday banquet occurred, Princess Qing Shan presented the play, 'Mu Guiying Breaks Through the Heavens'. Empress mother was happy after watching it and so was the emperor. Princess Qing Shan and Yong An Mansion were rewarded.

The troupe of Yong An Mansion became famous.

Of course, there was much more to follow.

When Li Su started to write the storybook, she slowly regained the memories of the original owner. She remembered the four arts (zither, go, calligraphy, and painting), poetry, and songs. She slowly recovered all these skills.

On this day, Li Su changed into a light yellow dress. She sat in front of camellias and played a song, Singing While Drunkenly Fishing Late At Night1. Wang Si Qin was fascinated by this since she was unfamiliar with this kind of mother.

In addition to daily reading to improve her literacy and the four arts, Wang Si Qin had gradually learned some etiquette and rules. The more she knew, the more Wang Si Qin understood what kind of life her mother had lost.

If her mother hadn't had that accident, then her mother would have been like her aunts. She would have been a gentle and elegant wife. She would have respected her in-laws, handled the housework, educated her children, talked about the zither, had beautiful calligraphy, and lived a comfortable, elegant life.

But, her mother had ended up as a peasant woman in a place like Shang Lin Village for 6 years. In the end, she had Wang Si Qin.

The most commendable thing was that, in the face of such a huge change, her mother was always very calm and never complained. With her own efforts, her mother managed to slowly regain the things she had lost.

Wang Si Qin felt that her mother was actually really strong. She still had a lot to learn.

Wang Si Qin was actually a smart and sensitive person. From the beginning, she could detect the kindness Yong An Mansion showered on her mother and herself. They were still kind, but she could now tell they had more sincerity behind their actions.

This sincerity didn't just come out of thin air. This was all gained through her mother's hard work. Wang Si Qin felt that she couldn't live up to her mother's efforts and sincerity.

"How is it? Does it sound good?" After Li Su played the song, she felt comfortable. To be able to play at this level was definitely the result of everyone's hard work. She didn't expect she would be able to play a melody of the elite!

"Good! It is good as always!" Xiao Zhen Shu clapped as he walked in. "Compared with before, cousin's zither skills sound calmer. Very good."

"Second older brother!" The original owner could remember this second cousin, so Li Su called out without him having to introduce himself.

Xiao Zhen Shu was naturally a free-spirit and was unwilling to be constrained by officialdom. He often travelled between the capital and Qian Tang. Therefore, he often met with the original owner. Among all the cousins, the relationship between them was the best.

"Cousin!" Xiao Zhen Shu looked at Li Su and his eyes fell on her hands. A trace of distress flashed in his eyes. Other places could be maintained and moisturised to restore their previous state, but the calluses produced by hard work with hands could not be eliminated for a while.

His cousin led a pampered life, but because of his mistakes, she ended up suffering so much. He was really ashamed and full of regret. Even if they had found his cousin now, he still couldn't make up for the suffering she endured the past few years.

"I haven't seen you for so many years. Second older brother is still as handsome as ever. Now that I am back, second older brother should stop running out. Second older brother isn't young anymore. It is time for you to get married. Third older brother has two sons. Second older brother, you can do it!" Li Su smiled.

Xiao Zhen Shu was no different from when they had met 7 years ago. He was just more mature and calmer. His heart became uncomfortable. "Cousin, how about you marry second older brother?"

Wang Si Qin's face changed drastically.

Li Su still smiled. "Second older brother, stop joking. It is clear to both of us that we only have sibling affection for each other. What happened before was an accident and has nothing to do with second older brother. Second older brother doesn't need to feel guilty. Now, I have returned unharmed with a smart daughter. Second older brother should let go of the past and find your own happiness."

Xiao Zhen Shu was just speaking nonsense. He also knew that there was only sibling affection between them, but he also felt a lot of guilt. If he married his cousin because he felt guilty, then he would be wronging his cousin.

"Second older brother is confused. I'm sorry."

"We are siblings. We don't need to be like this. By the way, second older brother hasn't seen my daughter, Si Qin. Si Qin, come and meet your second uncle," Li Su said as she gestured over to Wang Si Qin with a smile.

"Si Qin greets second uncle. Si Qin hopes second uncle is well!" Because of his previous words, Wang Si Qin's attitude towards Xiao Zhen Shu was a little lukewarm. Although she didn't spend much time with her father, it didn't mean that she had forgotten about her father. Nobody could replace her father. She also didn't want to recognise another father.

She had also eavesdropped on the conversation between her mother and the princess. She knew that her mother had no intention of marrying again, but she still felt uneasy.

Xiao Zhen Shu also noticed Wang Si Qin distancing him and felt a little embarrassed. It was he who was rash. "Si Qin, is it? This is a meeting gift second uncle is giving you. Do you like it?" Xiao Zhen Shu took out a beautiful silver aroma ball2 from his sleeve.

Wang Si Qin really liked it. She played with it. "It smells really good."

"I bought spices from the western region. If you don't like it, you can change it to something else." Xiao Zhen Shu smiled.

"I like it a lot. Thank you, second uncle." Wang Si Qin accepted the gift, but stood firmly beside Li Su and refused to leave.

Li Su felt a little helpless. Wang Si Qin was probably acting like this because of her past experiences. This child had never had a sense of security. As a mother, all Li Su could do was to accompany her daughter, pay attention to her daughter, and respond more.

Li Su took her daughter's hand and smiled at her. "Second brother, since you have come back, have you seen grandmother? Si Qin should go to class, so let's go first."

Xiao Zhen Shu glanced at Wang Si Qin. He probably knew of Si Qin's temperament from the letter his fourth younger brother sent him. She was also a pitiful person. He naturally wouldn't take her attitude to heart. So, he nodded. "Okay, go!"

Li Su took Wang Si Qin's hand and escorted her to Flower Hall. Today, she would learn about perfume from Nanny Xu.

Wang Si Qin suddenly grabbed her hand. Although she didn't say anything, her eyes clearly expressed her meaning.

Li Su was a bit dumbfounded. Shouldn't she be relieved? At least Si Qin was willing to express her true thoughts to her.

Li Su touched her hair. "Don't worry. Mother won't remarry."

Although it was just a simple sentence, Wang Si Qin smiled. "Mother, don't marry someone. When I grow up, I will take care of mother and let you live a good life." This was her promise and her real thoughts. Although it might be unfair to her mother, she really didn't want her mother to remarry.

Li Su smiled. Perhaps in some people's eyes, Si Qin's thoughts were selfish. But, Si Qin was only 6 years old and had that kind of childhood. Si Qin was extremely insecure and was afraid of being abandoned again. This attitude was normal, or at least, Li Su thought it was normal.

It just so happened that she had no intention of remarrying. Although this body was still very young, she had a family and a career. She didn't have to worry about food or clothing. Why would she want to marry again and serve other people while saving face?

She wasn't a masochist!

However, these ideas were too shocking for this time period, so it was better to not talk about them.

"Okay, mother believes you. You will do well!" Li Su smiled.

Wang Si Qin nodded and entered with her head held high.

When Li Su returned to Auspicious Purple Hall, Xiao Zhen Shu had yet to leave. He was talking to the old madam, Princess Qing Shan, and Mrs. Liu.

When the old madam saw Li Su return, she beckoned her over. "Su Su, come here. Your second older brother is back."

Li Su walked over with a smile. After greeting them, she sat beside the old madam. "I saw him in the garden just now."

The old madam looked at Li Su, then Xiao Zhen Shu. Suddenly, she thought of something. Before the old madam could speak, Li Su laughed and said, "Second older brother isn't young. Isn't it time for him to get married? Grandmother should carefully consider this!"

As soon as Li Su said this, the old madam understood what she meant.

The old madam felt that it was a shame. They would have been a good couple, but it was a shame that Li Su had no intention of marrying Xiao Shu. Marriage was a big deal, so she wouldn't force it.

Princess Qing Shan smiled and said, "Su Su is right. The old madam should help Zhen Shu."

The old madam smiled. "I am old and don't go out very much. I don't know who would be good. Let's see them together!"

The topic shifted and everyone began to discuss it enthusiastically. Xiao Zhen Shu felt antsy and soon found an excuse to run away.

Chapter 113 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 13)

That night, Xiao Qi Zhi returned to Yong An Mansion with some bad news.

"What? Father emperor wants to marry eighth younger brother's family's An He to Zhen Shu?" Princess Qing Shan was a little shocked. Although she is a princess, Princess Qing Shan herself did not want her son to marry a princess or have a princess come in. Yong An Mansion had always been loyal to His Majesty, and did not participate in the battle for the throne.

Therefore, Princess Qing Shan married eldest son to Mrs. Yang, and her third son to Mrs. Qin, who was the daughter of her teacher. Only the second one was delayed.

At the beginning, father emperor wanted to marry An Yi from his eldest brother's family to Zhen Shu. But, Yong An Mansion did not approve of it, so he acquiesced. Then, Zhen Shu left the capital to look for Su Su. He was still unmarried.

Now, why did the emperor bring up old things again?!

Princess Qing Shan frowned.

"I heard that Prince Lu is seriously ill. Perhaps he will die soon," explained Xiao Qi Zhi.

Princess Qing Shan also knew that the eighth younger brother came from Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su. In those days, father emperor welcomed Mrs. Su as the Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine. How many people envied and resented her? When she entered the palace, she had eighth younger brother, who was born with a deficiency. It was unknown if this result was due to outside machinations. Father emperor was a person with long-lasting feelings. He had treated Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su the same for many years. Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su gave birth to her eighth younger brother and father emperor did not allow her to give birth since he was reluctant for her to suffer the pain of childbirth. Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su was frail and sickly. Father emperor was worried about her when Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su insisted on giving birth to her eighteenth younger brother at the age of 45. Her eighteenth younger brother was healthy, but as Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su gave birth to a child at a late age, she hurt her body and passed away not long after. As a result, Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su became the white moonlight1 in father emperor's heart and nobody could replace her.

Father emperor now mentioned Zhen Shu's marriage once more. If Yong An Mansion still refused, then they really couldn't tell good from bad. In addition, eighth younger brother had a weak son. He only had one daughter, An He, who father emperor loved the most since she resembled Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su. Emperor father's willingness to marry An He into Yong An Mansion showed that he also trusted and valued Yong An Mansion.

Xiao Qi Zhi saw Princess Qing Shan's cautious expression and persuaded her. "I know that the princess has the same thought as mine. We don't want the mansion to participate in the struggle for the throne. Fortunately, the eighth prince is ill and only has one daughter, Imperial Princess An He. And, the eighteenth prince is even younger."

Princess Qing Shan nodded. Yes, An He had no brothers. Eighteenth younger brother was only 3 this year. If father emperor really wanted to marry someone, then An He was the best choice.

When Xiao Qi Zhi saw that Princess Qing Shan understood, he said with a smile, "His Majesty will make an announcement of the marriage tomorrow. Please remember to bring Zhen Shu into the palace at that time."

"I will have to talk to my mother about this matter. Today, we were still enthusiastically discussing which lady would be suitable for Zhen Shu." Princess Qing Shan sighed lightly.

An He was different from A-Yao. An He was the descendant of the imperial family. She was smart and beautiful, and very much loved. It was said that she had a quiet temperament, but it was unknown if that was true.

Princess Qing Shan was a little worried. She feared that the current peace in the household would break and things would be shaken up.

"I'm going to talk to mother." Xiao Qi Zhi patted his wife on the shoulder. They had been married for many years and what his wife worried about were also his worries. However, since this matter had been decided, he could only face it calmly.

The next day, His Majesty announced a decree marrying Imperial Princess An He, the daughter of Prince Lu, to Yong An Mansion's second son.

Because of Prince Lu's body, the imperial decree came in a hurry. The date of the marriage was also set in a hurry. But, the wedding didn't seem to be in a rush at all. The prince was marrying his daughter off. Yong An Mansion was receiving a new daughter-in-law. Everything was well prepared. The wedding was lively.

Two months after Imperial Princess An He's wedding, Prince Lu passed away.

Imperial Princess An He was newly married, so she had to keep her filial piety behind closed doors. She didn't have much contact with the others in the mansion. The people in the mansion were unable to determine her temperament, so the mansion was stable for a while.

Li Su thought it was unusual. From what she knew, Concubine Su, who was the biological mother of Prince Lu and the 18th prince, was the old emperor's true love. As the old emperor's beloved granddaughter, the old emperor decided to marry her into the hereditary Yong An Mansion. No matter how the regime changed in the future, her life could be guaranteed.

As his only son left by his true love, the old emperor would have arranged a future for him. So, what was with this back road?

Li Su guessed that there were two possibilities. First, the old emperor was in good health, so he could last a few more years until the 18th prince grew up safely, then pass the throne to him. Second, the emperor's condition wasn't great, so he had a decree before he died saying that the new emperor must take care of his youngest son.

The possibility of the first option was quite high.

From what she could tell of the plot, the young emperor and the prince regent were the first kind. But it might be because the timing was wrong or something else went wrong that the court was controlled by the prince regent.

So, who was the prince regent? Li Su was very anxious, but she couldn't show it. She could only secretly inquire about the older princes.

Li Su managed to hide her anxiety from everyone but Wang Si Qin.

She didn't understand why there was something wrong with her mother after her second aunt entered the house. Was her mother really interested in her second uncle, so that's why she forgot herself?

But, her mother and her second uncle didn't get along like they were in a relationship.

Wang Si Qin was puzzled. Finally, she took the initiative to ask her mother.

Li Su was surprised. She lowered her head and thought about it. "Maybe it is weird for mother to say this, but mother is really worried."

She then told Wang Si Qin about her guess.

Wang Si Qin looked at Li Su in surprise. "Mother, why do you think so much?" What her mother said was too shocking, but her mother didn't say this to just anyone. Her mother told her. Was it okay for her to think that, to her mother, she was a person who her mother could discuss important matters with?

"You can see that His Majesty greatly favoured Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su. Your second aunt is now in the mourning period, so it isn't easy to enter the palace often. But, one can go into the palace once in a while to be granted an award. His Majesty shared food and drink, and spent a lot of time with her, so he has never forgotten her. This is true for your second aunt. The eighteenth prince is the youngest son from Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su. You tell me, what will His Majesty do with him?" Li Su didn't think too much. She simply believed in Wang Si Qin's IQ.

Sure enough, Wang Si Qin pondered over it for a moment, then said, "If you really love someone, then you would naturally give them the best things. However, the eighteenth prince is young. The ruler of the country is suspicious…" Wang Si Qin was very shocked.

Li Su saw that Wang Si Qin had seen it too, and couldn't help but feel pleased. She was a transmigrator and knew the plot, but Si Qin thought of this with only a few words from her. Si Qin had such a good IQ!

Wang Si Qin lowered her head. She didn't see approval on Li Su's face. "His Majesty will marry the princess into Yong An Mansion so they can support the new emperor in the future, but…" Then, Yong An Mansion was in danger!

Wang Si Qin then raised her head. "Mother, I don't know if uncle or the others have thought of this, but since we have thought of it, we should talk to them!"

Li Su smiled. "You're right. You should go talk to them!"

Wang Si Qin was a little surprised. "I'm going to tell them? Mother, will they believe me?"

"Silly child. How would you know if you haven't tried? Remember, you have to show your intelligence appropriately. After a while, the people around you will respect your opinions," encouraged Li Su. Since Wang Si Qin decided to take an unusual path, then it was best if she showed off how excellent she was as soon as possible.

After thinking about it carefully, Wang Si Qin nodded. She felt that it was meaningless to hide her ability. If she wanted to get something, she had to give something! She wanted others to respect her opinions, so she had to let people know that she had the ability and wisdom.

That night in Xiao Qi Zhi's study, the men, including Xiao Qi Zhi, Xiao Shun Zhi, Xiao Zhen Yuan, and Xiao Zhen Shu looked at Wang Si Qin in amazement as she talked.

It wasn't Wang Si Qin's speculations that shocked them. They had known of these things a long time ago and had been discussing how to deal with them.

They were shocked that Wang Si Qin could think of this at a young age. This cleverness and keen sense were far better than most children!

Xiao Qi Zhi couldn't hide the admiration in his eyes, but then he looked at Li Su. "Su Su, do you know what you are doing?"

"Eldest uncle, I know. Si Qin is different from ordinary children. What she wants is also different from ordinary children. As her mother, I support all her decisions," Li Su said proudly.

"Is that why you wrote those scripts?" the second master, Xiao Shun Zi, asked with a smile.

"Yes. Si Qin is very smart and motivated. I am afraid that her intelligence and her ambition will be used incorrectly and will do her more harm than good!" said Li Su, not evading the question.

When Li Su talked about this, Wang Si Qin was very calm. She knew her mother's intentions and she was very grateful. There was nothing to be embarrassed about. From Xiao Qi Zhi and the others' reactions, she had already guessed this. "It turned out that you all thought of these things already. I was worrying too much."

Xiao Zhen Yuan laughed and patted Wang Si Qin on the head. "You have told your uncles. Your uncles are very happy!" If she could clearly see the happenings in the mansion, but kept her mouth shut, then it wouldn't be good.

Wang Si Qin was very calm.

Xiao Qi Zhi was solemn. He was hesitant. After a long while of staring at Wang Si Qin, he asked, "Si Qin, uncle is seriously asking you. Do you regret it?"

Wang Si Qin's eyes lit up. Here was her opportunity! "Uncle, I won't regret it. I don't want to just be a housewife, who has a husband and child. I don't want to leave my honour and happiness in the hands of others. I want to control my own destiny. I want to be able to rely on myself and use my own efforts to gain the respect of others. I want to be the most dazzling existence in the crowd!" she said seriously.

Everyone looked at Wang Si Qin cautiously. A while later, Xiao Qi Zhi said, "Okay. Except for the culture class, the other classes will be suspended. You will come to the study every night and your second uncle and I will teach you!"

1.(白月光) white moonlight: a perfect woman who a man cherishes in his memory, but she is no longer with him. This term came from a TV series called "Yanxi Palace"↩

Chapter 114 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 14)

Wang Si Qin was excited. She knew that after tonight, she would embark on another path! It would be the road of her dreams.

When they came out, Li Su smiled at Wang Si Qin. "Si Qin, do you really regret it? This road may not be easy. It might be hard and you might have a lot of burdens."

In the dark night, the faint light from the lanterns shone on Wang Si Qin's face. Her face was dull, but her eyes were full of dazzling light.

"Mother, do you know? Actually, I liked the name Bei Chen a lot and thought it was suitable for me. I hope that one day, the name Wang Bei Chen can be known to the world!"

Li Su smiled helplessly. How could this girl be more domineering than her, a transmigrator?

When she was young, she had imagined what it would be like to travel back to ancient times with her rich modern and historical knowledge. She imagined that the ancients would applaud as she played in the middle. She would thrive and ten thousand people would support her.

But with the passage of time and the increase in knowledge, she realised that these thoughts were nothing but fantasy.

If she really travelled back to ancient times, then she may not even speak or understand what others said since there was no Mandarin in ancient times. Mandarin evolved from the language spoken during the Qing dynasty. She may not even know the characters, except for some of the traditional characters. Also, she may not even know how to wear the clothes.

The most important thing was that she underestimated the IQ of people from ancient times.

Gradually, Li Su no longer dreamed of travelling back to ancient times. She never thought that 10 years later, she would possess this system and really travel back to ancient times. Of course, these worlds mostly had only a framework. Many places had been subconsciously assimilated by the author, so there were no differences in language or other aspects. But, Li Su was still an ordinary person, so she no longer had those unrealistic fantasies.

She never thought that her daughter would be this domineering.

"Okay, mother supports you! Good luck!" Li Su said with a smile.

Wang Si Qin smiled slightly. Perhaps it was because she knew that her mother would support her unconditionally, which was why she was so headstrong! She knew that no matter what happened in the future, her mother would never give up on her. This was enough!

Since then, Wang Si Qin had the opportunity to go to the study with Xiao Yan Xi and the others every night.

On the surface, this incident did not cause any disturbances in Yong An Mansion. Yong An Mansion's authority meant that others did not have any objections to this decision. But, there were some who were worried. For example, the old madam. The old madam was probably the person who cared the most about Li Su and Wang Si Qin in Yong An Mansion.

Unlike other people's concerns, the old madam only cared about Li Su and Wang Si Qin's happiness. If her granddaughter refused to marry again, then that was fine. There were uncles and cousins who could take care of her.

But Si Qin didn't choose the usual path, which made her worry. If Si Qin learned these things, then how would she marry in the future?!

The old madam was very worried, but when she saw Si Qin's spirited appearance everyday and her sons praise Si Qin, she had no choice but to compromise. Forget it. As long as they were happy, then it was fine! If she lived for one day, then she has her eyes open for a day. If she is dead, then there is the eldest and second oldest child.1 As long as Yong An Mansion existed for just another day, then they couldn't let their mother and daughter lose their support.

Li Su saw that the old madam was relieved, so she too was relieved. In fact, she was afraid that the old madam would object. The old lady was auspicious and everyone in the mansion paid their respects to her. If the old lady objected, the Si Qin would not be able to tread on this path easily.

On this day, Li Su was writing a storybook, her head bowed. She wrote the story of a real ancient heroine, Qin Liangyu2. She was the only woman in Chinese history who was conferred a military merit, and the only woman whose legend was passed down. In her previous life, Li Su had been to Shizhu in Sichuan, and had learned about this legendary woman. Later, she searched up Qin Liangyu on the internet and sincerely appreciated that such a woman led a magnificent life. Qin Liangyu was more amazing than those so-called heroines who relied on men in TV dramas!

"Young miss, the imperial princess is here," Cai He, the maid, said softly.

Li Su was writing vigorously and was a little unhappy when she heard those words. The mansion knew the morning was her writing time, so they would generally not bother her. After all, they all were waiting to see the new play.

It was just that Imperial Princess An He had come, so Li Su didn't dare to offend her rashly.

"Understood. Ask the imperial princess in for tea. I will come after I wash my hands." Li Su put down the pen and carefully put the paper away.

"Welcoming the imperial princess." Li Su bent her knees.

"Cousin doesn't need to be so polite. Please sit down," Imperial Princess An He said softly.

Li Su noted that she was 7-8 years younger than herself and still had some childish features. But, she straightened her waist and pretended to be an adult. Li Su thought it was a bit funny.

Of course, she didn't dare to laugh out loud. Although the other person was young, she had a higher identity.

"Why has the imperial princess come here? Is there something wrong?" Li Su asked softly. Not long after Imperial Princess An He married into the mansion, Prince Lu died. As Prince Lu's only daughter, she had to keep filial piety for her father. On weekdays, she stayed behind closed doors in Peaceful Courtyard, except for when she had to pay her respects in the morning and evening. She rarely dealt with other people in the mansion.

Imperial Princess An He was a little embarrassed, and hesitated before saying, "Since I want to be filial to my father, I recite Buddhist scriptures on weekdays. My husband said that I am still young and my temperament is not stable. My husband said that filial piety in the heart is enough and father will feel it in heaven. My husband asked me to do something else. Grandfather emperor also implied the same thing."

Li Su didn't understand what Imperial Princess An He meant, but she listened patiently.

Imperial Princess An He continued. "My husband gave me a few scripts. I read them and they were wonderful." After speaking, An He shot Li Su an embarrassed look.

Li Su had a realisation. She looked at Imperial Princess An He with a smile on her face.

"I heard from my husband that these scripts were originally written by cousin. I wanted to ask if cousin has any new ones?" Imperial Princess An He looked at Li Su expectantly.

Li Su held back a laugh. It turned out that Imperial Princess An He was here for a manuscript. Li Su smiled and stood. She turned around and took a stack of manuscripts from the table. "This is the new one about the legend of Qin Liangyu. It is about a legendary woman who was a legendary general. This is the first volume. Imperial princess can take it and read it first!"

Every time she finished writing a storybook, someone would copy it, compile it into a book, then send it to the troupe bookstore. Generally, her inked works would not spread outside.

Imperial Princess An He's eyes lit up and she quickly picked it up. "Thank you, cousin."

"If I write a new one, then I will ask the maid to send it to Imperial Princess. Then, Imperial Princess can hand the read manuscripts to the maid." Li Su smiled.

Imperial Princess An He nodded. "Thank you, cousin. I have these top-quality four treasures, a writing brush, ink stick, ink slab, and paper3 that grandfather emperor awarded. I hope cousin doesn't dislike them." The maid behind Imperial Princess An He walked forward with the items in her arms.

Li Su hurriedly said, "Imperial Princess should keep the items that His Majesty awarded. How can Imperial Princess give them to me?"

Imperial Princess An He smiled shyly. "I am actually not proficient in poetry or writing. My husband also doesn't like these. Leaving these four treasures with me is a waste. Cousin is different. I like the characters that cousin has written. They have distinct personalities. It would have been nice if I was able to meet cousin earlier." Although she had been favoured since she was a child, everyone around her treated her like glass. They repeatedly told her about things that she could not do. Over time, she had become accustomed to living a life of restraint and respect.

But, after she read her cousin's story, she realised that women could live like this. The world created by her cousin was so beautiful. The women in those stories were lovely and respectable. She wanted to be such a woman.

Although it was impossible to change now, it did not prevent Imperial Princess An He from wanting to be close to Li Su.

"I am still in the filial piety period, so I can't stay for long. I will head back first. But, I will come often to talk to cousin in the future. Please don't mind this," Imperial Princess An He said softly.

Li Su nodded. "I will wait for Imperial Princess."

After Li Su sent off Imperial Princess An He, she sighed a little. She finally understood how spoiled Imperial Princess An He was. Somehow, in the chaotic mess that was the imperial family, Imperial Princess An He managed to remain sweet and naïve. Li Su could only imagine how tightly protected Imperial Princess An He had been.

The old emperor took great pains for this granddaughter. He thought of everything. She had been in Yong An Mansion for a few months, but was still sweet and naïve.

It wasn't easy.

In the fight between the young emperor and the prince regent, the young emperor finally won, but Yong An Mansion paid a heavy price for it! Of course, Yong An Mansion was loyal, but the young emperor also did whatever it took. After all, the young emperor was not a good character, so he did whatever it took to achieve his goals. Yong An Mansion was his sword against the prince regent. As for what happened to this sword, he may not care at all. When Yong An Mansion was almost destroyed by the prince regent, the young emperor did not make a move even though he was sad and indignant.

The tragedy of Yong An Mansion was likely a step in the young emperor's plans!

The young emperor ignored the decline of Yong An Mansion.

She could only say that he was a successful emperor!

There were more variables in this life, such as Imperial Princess An He. Even if the young emperor was colder, Imperial Princess An He was his niece. He had to worry about this.

In addition, the young emperor was still young. If she could get closer to him through Imperial Princess An He, then could Yong An Mansion be given more protection? Although it might not be useful as the young emperor was still selfish. When things were dire, he would still sacrifice them. But, at least he would always be concerned, wouldn't idly sit by, and wouldn't contribute to the flames.

Li Su thought this was a good method. As for the political intrigue, she would let the smart people deal with it. She could only use ordinary methods.

Li Su bowed her head and began writing the storybook.

Chapter 115 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 15)

Due to Li Su's deliberate moves, she and Imperial Princess An He quickly became friends. Because of Li Su's influence, Imperial Princess An He did not stay in the yard all day and instead began to talk to the other women.

After Mrs. Yang and the others put aside their doubts about the identity of Imperial Princess An He, they discovered that she was just a shy young girl with a gentle personality. They were relieved. Their attitude towards Imperial Princess An He relaxed, and they were a little more tolerant and pampering.

Imperial Princess An He was only a few years older than Yan Xi, and he was still a child.

The elders in the house were happy to see these changes.

Princess Qing Shan, in particular, was very happy. An He was not just her daughter-in-law, but also her niece. She thought An He was spoiled, so she didn't expect An He to be so innocent. Princess Qing Shan knew it already, but she still felt a little surprised. Father emperor really loved Highest-Ranking Imperial Concubine Su a lot.

The men in Yong An Mansion disapproved a little. They didn't want their female family members to be so emotional. They felt that there were other plans. If the emperor really loved Imperial Princess An He, then he would not raise her to be so innocent. Weren't the people around him so smart and capable? Fortunately, she was married into their mansion. If she married elsewhere, Imperial Princess An He would be devoured.

The old emperor finally couldn't help it. He hadn't seen his granddaughter for more than 2 months, so he sent someone to bring his granddaughter to the palace. Although he had people telling him the situation of his granddaughter every day, the old emperor still felt uneasy. He felt that his granddaughter may be wronged and he wouldn't know about it.

After seeing her, the old emperor was relieved. Yong An Mansion was very good, and so was Zhen Shu.

"Grandfather emperor, why are you so thin again? Bao'er isn't here, so are you not behaving?" Imperial Princess An He childhood nickname was Bao'er. Her eyes reddened when she saw the old emperor, and she choked up in his arms.

"Grandfather emperor eats and sleeps on time every day. If you don't believe it, ask him!" The old emperor never saw his granddaughter cry. She reminded him of Min'er, and he felt very uncomfortable.

Imperial Princess An He looked at Head Eunuch Xiang Zhong. Xiang Zhong didn't dare to disobey His Majesty, so he naturally nodded and said yes.

The old emperor was afraid that his granddaughter would ask more questions, so he quickly said, "You haven't been in the palace for a long time. Little Eighteen is worried about you."

"Bao'er is also very worried about Eighteenth Uncle. Grandfather emperor, can I go see Eighteenth Uncle?" Imperial Princess An He asked. "I brought some good things for Eighteenth Uncle."

"Don't worry. Xiang Zhong, go and pick up Little Eighteen." The old emperor smiled. "Let grandfather emperor take a look at these good things. Grandfather emperor will have dinner in the palace today and will ask the royal chefs to prepare your favourites for you."

"This was written by my cousin and it is wonderful. Eighteenth Uncle likes to read books, and he always reads the classics and history. What cousin wrote is fun," said Imperial Princess An He innocently.

The old emperor smiled. Can the emperor's education be compared to the emperor's granddaughter's? As a prince, Little Eighteen had to study how to govern the country and many other strategies. But, he didn't want to explain this to his granddaughter. "Cousin?"

"Mm. Cousin is the cousin of husband's relatives. She was missing for several years and only recently returned," Imperial Princess An He said excitedly. She then covered her mouth. "Oh, don't tell husband what I said."

Yong An Mansion's affairs were naturally known to him. "It's okay. It's just grandfather emperor. Nobody else will know."

Imperial Princess An He was relieved and smiled. "Grandfather emperor, I actually admire my cousin. She is very wise, smart, strong, and brave. She was a pampered girl from an affluent family who became a village woman. When coming back from that, your temperament would surely change. But, cousin is different. Husband said that cousin's temperament was calmer and she was more intelligent than before. Isn't she very good?"

The old emperor smiled. "Do you like her a lot?"

"Mm, I like her!" Imperial Princess An He's eyes lit up.

The old emperor smiled. Just as he was about to speak, a servant called from outside the door. "Your Majesty, the eighteenth prince is here."

The old emperor nodded. The 18th prince entered and he said, "This son greets father emperor."

"Greetings to Eighteenth Uncle." Imperial Princess An He did not look down on the 18th prince because of his young age. She earnestly paid her respects to the 18th prince.

"Bao'er can dispense these formalities." The 18th prince was only about 3 years old, but most of the imperial children mature prematurely. The 18th prince, in particular, was calm and restrained like a little adult.

"Eighteenth Uncle, come here. I have brought some good things," Imperial Princess An He said excitedly.

The 18th prince looked at the old emperor and saw that he had no objection. He then went over to Imperial Princess An He.

Imperial Princess An He put the items she brought on the table. They were all small gadgets that were specially prepared by Li Su, such as a Rubik's Cube. This is what Li Su prepared after learning about what the 18th prince was like.

Sure enough, the 18th prince was interested in the Rubik's Cube. He was not interested in the other toys or scripts.

Imperial Princess An He smiled. "Does Eighteenth Uncle like this? This is difficult. Su Su said that this was a third-order Rubik's Cube. If you can solve it, then there will be higher ones."

The 18th prince took the Rubik's Cube. "How do I play with this?"

"You need to mess up the pattern, then restore it to its original state. The shorter the time, the better." Imperial Princess An He demonstrated this to the 18th prince.

The 18th prince understood how to play with the Rubik's Cube, then fiddled with it by himself.

Even during the meal, the 18th prince kept his eyes on the Rubik's Cube. The old emperor also took it and fiddled with it for a bit, thinking it was interesting. The old emperor let the 18th prince continue to play with the Rubik's Cube.

Half a month later, the 18th prince sent someone to Yong An Mansion to inform them that the 18th prince had solved the third-order Rubik's Cube and to ask Imperial Princess An He if there was a fourth-order Rubik's Cube.

Imperial Princess An He immediately sent someone to ask Li Su, who then brought back the fourth-order Rubik's Cube.

The 18th prince was content.

Imperial Princess An He smiled after sending away the 18th prince, but then she immediately thought of something and thought deeply.

Within a few days, Imperial Princess An He entered the palace. She expressed her thoughts to the old emperor.

The old emperor was a little surprised. "What do you mean when you say that you want your cousin to enter the palace to take care of Little Eighteen?"

Imperial Princess An He nodded. "Su Su is tough, optimistic, cheerful, and clever. She has many ideas. The children in the house love her and are very close to her. I think if such a person took care of Eighteenth Uncle, it would be good. Bao'er knows that grandfather emperor has high hopes for Eighteenth Uncle, but Eighteenth Uncle is still young. The schoolwork Eighteenth Uncle has to do is heavy."

"Have you discussed this idea with Zhen Shu and your aunt?" the old emperor asked after he thought about it.

Imperial Princess An He shook her head. "If you discuss with them what to do and father emperor thinks it is good, then I can make a decision! If I ask Su Su, she will agree. She is very nice," Imperial Princess An He said innocently.

"Child!" The old emperor laughed. "Grandfather emperor will consider your words. Don't tell anyone about this for now, okay?"

If Imperial Princess An He's cousin was really as good as Imperial Princess An He said, then the old emperor could rest assured that his beloved son would be well taken care of. He could not rashly impose this decree due to Imperial Princess An He's relationship with Yong An Mansion. Although the old emperor was convinced that Yong An Mansion would not resist the decree, it would inevitably destroy their relationship.

The old emperor did not want to do this.

Besides, there wasn't a lack of people serving Eighteen. The people around Eighteen were Min'er's confidants, and the rest were selected by the old emperor. No matter how good a widow was, her status wasn't suitable.

It was just Bao'ers slight fascination. The old emperor didn't take it to heart.

He didn't expect that Imperial Princess An He would take it to heart. Imperial Princess An He told Xiao Zhen Shu about it after she returned to the mansion.

Xiao Zhen Shu's expression darkened. "Imperial Princess has already told the emperor?"

Although Imperial Princess An He couldn't see that Xiao Zhen Shu was angry, but the person beside her noticed it and reminded Imperial Princess An He. In fact, when they heard about it, they didn't think that it was appropriate. The helpless imperial princess had mentioned it without discussing it with them and they were too late to stop her.

Imperial Princess An He was still at a loss and did not know what she had done wrong. She looked at Xiao Zhen Shu timidly.

When Xiao Zhen Shu saw her, his anger dissipated and he patiently said, "Imperial Princess, cousin cannot enter the palace and it is not suitable for her to enter the palace. If the eighteenth prince is short of reliable people to serve him, then I can find some suitable people for Imperial Princess. Don't involve cousin."

Although Imperial Princess An He was innocent, she wasn't stupid. She nodded quickly. "I see. Grandfather emperor only said that he would consider it carefully, but he didn't agree."

Xiao Zhen Shu was relieved now. Even though he knew that if his cousin really entered the palace and served the 18th prince then it would be good for Yong An Mansion, but he refused and his father and second uncle would not agree. The mansion's safety was due to the presence of men like them, so there was no need for their female family members to come forward.

"Imperial Princess, cousin has a pitiful background. We all feel bad for her. We only hope that she will live a carefree and happy life. So, don't talk about this matter again in the future, okay, Imperial Princess?" said Xiao Zhen Shu.

Imperial Princess An He nodded timidly. "Okay. Husband, don't be angry."

Xiao Zhen Shu smiled helplessly. "Imperial Princess knows that we are married. The most important thing between a married couple is to be honest and trusting of one another. Zhen Shu believes in Imperial Princess and asks Imperial Princess to discuss things with Zhen Shu before making any decisions, okay?"

Imperial Princess An He nodded quickly.

Imperial Princess An He regretted it a little. She just thought that Su Su was a good person and she could be more at ease with Su Su taking care of 18th uncle. But, she didn't expect grandfather emperor or her husband to disagree. Her husband even got angry.

"Husband, don't tell aunt about this, okay? And Su Su!" Imperial Princess An He said while she pulled Xiao Zhen Shu's sleeve.

"Okay, I won't," Xiao Zhen Shu said patiently.

Chapter 116 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 16)

Xiao Zhen Shu didn't tell anyone about it. It was just a blow to the person who was serving Imperial Princess An He.

The people who served Imperial Princess An He were respectful and accepted this.

An He had a naïve and innocent temperament. But, all the people around her were clever. They were carefully selected by Highest Ranking Imperial Concubine Su and Prince Lu. They were also very loyal to Imperial Princess An He. They naturally knew what to do about her.

Xiao Zhen Shu felt a little helpless when faced with Imperial Princess An He's temperament. Since they were now married, Imperial Princess An He was his responsibility.

Although Xiao Zhen Shu didn't talk to the others, he still found Li Su secretly and apologised to her for Imperial Princess An He.

Li Su laughed after hearing this. "Second older brother is too polite. I know what kind of temperament Imperial Princess has. She has no malice behind her actions, so of course I don't mind. In fact, if His Majesty really allowed it, I would also be very happy."

"Su Su!" Xiao Zhen Shu looked unhappy.

"Second older brother, don't tell me that you get to decide everything. I am a woman and won't cause trouble. You know that I don't like listening to these words," said Li Su seriously.

Xiao Zhen Shu frowned. "Su Su, don't worry. I don't mean it. It's just that things haven't reached that point. So, you don't need to wrong yourself."

Li Su smiled. "Second older brother, you are not me. How do you know I would feel wronged?"

"Okay, Su Su. Don't even think about this. We won't agree. You can stay in the house peacefully. It's okay to talk to your relatives and write a storybook. You can leave all these outside things to the men. We are still here. You do not need to be obedient!" Xiao Zhen Shu said solemnly.

Although Xiao Zhen Shu's remarks were a bit misogynistic, Li Su thought it was a bit useful after hearing it. Although she didn't really want to serve the 18th prince, she wanted to figure out who the prince regent was. It would be better to kill him directly. According to the description, the prince regent would truly love Si Qin. She knew that he was going to die, so Si Qin's back path had already been arranged. It was just that people weren't great and the male lead brought people to find Si Qin to kill her.

Although this love was very touching, Li Su didn't intend on letting her daughter become someone's forbidden love. The prince regent was very possessive. Wang Si Qin was imprisoned in another courtyard. She had glory and wealth, but lost her freedom. This was probably the reason why Wang Si Qin ended up mad and cynical.

This time, she had finally re-established Wang Si Qin's outlook on life and her values. If Si Qin was to be locked away in a cage in the name of true love, she would go crazy.

These days, Li Su had figured out the situation of several princes through Imperial Princess An He. She finally locked in several candidates who could be the prince regent. But, she would not underestimate the other princes. After all, there were a fair number of princes who pretended to be pigs, but ate the tigers in history. She still had to continue to observe.

The first candidate, Prince Qi, the 4th prince, was Concubine De's child. He was 35 years old, in the prime of his life. In ancient times, etiquette was of great importance. In the absence of legitimate children, the 4th prince was the most likely to inherit the position. The old emperor also regarded the 4th prince very seriously. The 4th prince had always regarded himself as invisible.

However, in Li Su's view, the 4th prince was probably the kind of shield the old emperor used to attract fire. If the old emperor really valued him, then he would have been appointed the crown prince a long time ago.

But, his age was an issue. He was almost 30 years older than Si Qin. However, this was normal in ancient times.

The second candidate was Prince Chu, the 7th prince. He was 29 years old, gentle, and elegant. He was loved by the ruling class and the opposition. He was also known as a virtuous prince. He was known for his talents and had many supporters around him when compared to the 4th prince. Most importantly, his birth mother was a palace lady next to the empress dowager. She died of illness shortly after giving birth to Prince Chu. Prince Chu was then raised by the empress dowager. It was said that the empress dowager asked for the empress to raise Prince Chu, but the emperor didn't agree. At that time, the empress was unwilling to raise other people's sons and did not agree.

The rest of the princes either had weak bodies, mediocre aptitudes, or had mothers with low status.

It was only when Li Su determined who the regent was would she want to find a way to kill him. If others couldn't do it, then she would. Before that, she needed to make adequate preparations.

After Li Su carefully thought about various assassination methods, Li Su decided to learn archery. In her previous life, she had watched a drama about fighting the Japanese. Apart from the holes in the plot, the most important thing was that the heroine was handsome when she shot arrows. Li Su had been obsessed with it for a while and had practiced archery. She was finally defeated by reality and gave up on it.

Now that she was as powerful as a cow, she could at least draw a bow. What she needed to practice now was her accuracy.

Now, she practiced riding and shooting with Yan Si and Si Qin every afternoon.

Her excuse was that she wanted to exercise.

Although people in the mansion knew it was just an excuse, they all chose to indulge her. This was why Li Su liked Yong An Mansion. They were open-minded and respectful. Although they sometimes didn't agree with a decision, they respected any decision that was made.

Li Su liked this kind of atmosphere, so she didn't want anyone to ruin this.

After observing for a period of time, Wang Si Qin found Li Su. "Mother, do you want to take the risk?"

Li Su never thought of hiding anything from Wang Si Qin, so she nodded. "It isn't a risky move. It's just in case!"

"Mother, you don't need to do that. I can!" Wang Si Qin said seriously.

Li Su looked at Wang Si Qin with a smile. Today's Si Qin was completely different from second girl in Shang Lin Village. If her dead father was to stand in front of her, then he would not be able to recognise her.

"Si Qin, you have your dreams. There are people your mother wants to protect."

"Who is the person mother wants to protect?" Wang Si Qin asked softly.

Li Su smiled and touched Wang Si Qin's hair. "Go, grandmother is waiting for us. Today, dinner will be your favourite chicken bamboo shoots1!"

That night, Wang Si Qin found Xiao Qi Zhi. "Grandpa, I want to enter the palace!"

Xiao Qi Zhi frowned. "You want to go into the palace?"

"Yes!" Wang Si Qin said firmly.

Xiao Qi Zhi said solemnly, "It is good that you have this in your heart, but you don't need to do this. If you insist on going your way, then entering the palace is not the best choice."

"Grandpa, you have misunderstood. Although I want to enter the palace, I don't intend to be a woman in the harem. It would be a pity if my intelligence was buried in the harem. I want to be the most trusted person around the future emperor and hope that He can trust me with confidence. As for any relationship, this will take time. This kind of thing should be done sooner, rather than later, therefore I want to enter the palace," said Wang Si Qin.

Xiao Qi Zhi sighed a little. This kid was extremely intelligent and courageous. "You already have a goal?"

"Grandpa is joking. Don't you already know it?" Wang Si Qin laughed. They knew back when Imperial Princess An He married into Yong An Mansion. If nothing happens, then the crown prince should be the 18th prince.

Yong An Mansion had always been loyal and did not interfere in disputes. Their allegiance was to the person sitting in the throne. If His Majesty wanted the 18th prince to succeed him, then Yong An Mansion would do what they could to assist the 18th prince.

In the capital, it wasn't just Yong An Mansion who could guess the emperor's intentions. The people of Prince Qi and Prince Chu had already made some small movements.

Of course, Yong An Mansion did not take these small actions to heart. Yong An Mansion had been standing for many years and had its own reasons.

Xiao Qi Zhi pondered for a moment and said, "Let me think about it."

Wang Si Qin nodded. "Thank you, grandpa. I hope it won't be too long."

Xiao Qi Zhi looked at Wang Si Qin's back and sighed.

When Xiao Zhen Shu talked to other people, he paled. Could it be that Imperial Princess' words led to this feeling in his heart?

Xiao Qi Zhi and the others all looked at him. Xiao Zhen Shu said that Imperial Princess An He had recommended Li Su to the palace to serve the 18th prince before adding, "But His Majesty did not agree."

Xiao Qi Zhi couldn't hide his anger. "His Majesty and his subjects get along very well. Surely His Majesty will not agree to it." Imperial Princess An He's move was very irritating!

"Father, Imperial Princess said something without intentions and knows it was wrong," Xiao Zhen Shu said softly.

Xiao Qi Zhi calmed down. "Unintentional remarks often bring great harm. Zhen Shu, it is said that when a child makes a mistake, then it must be corrected even if it is in front of many guests, but if your wife has made a mistake, then it must be discussed behind closed doors2. Imperial Princess is innocent, so you should tell her clearly. The men in our house aren't dead yet! There is no need for the women to come forward!"

Xiao Zhen Shu looked ashamed. "Yes, second uncle."

Xiao Qi Zhi took a deep breath. "It's not Su Su. It's just that Si Qin is too stubborn. I am afraid that if I refuse Si Qin, then she will think of other ways. If things get beyond our grasp, then it won't be good."

As soon as Xiao Qi Zhi said this, everyone fell silent. This child was really assertive and sure of what she wanted.

When Xiao Zhen Ting saw that everyone was silent, he smiled. "Isn't there still Su Su? Su Su won't agree to Si Qin entering the palace." No matter how much Si Qin wanted to do something, she would respect Su Su's opinion.

Everyone thought so, but Xiao Zhen Shu was not optimistic. They expected Su Su to be able to persuade Si Qin? Hehe, he was afraid that was unlikely.

Xiao Zhen Shu saw that Su Su treated Si Qin like an adult. She respected Si Qin's wishes, so Su Su would not reject anything Si Qin decided.

So this time, he was afraid.

But the result was beyond Xiao Zhen Shu's expectations. When Li Su learned that Si Qin wanted to enter the palace, she clearly expressed her opposition.

"No, I don't agree!"

Chapter 117 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 17)

This was the first time that Li Su said no to Wang Si Qin. This reaction seemed normal to everyone else, but it seemed somewhat unacceptable to Wang Si Qin.

For a long time, Li Su had not always followed Wang Si Qin. In Wang Si Qin's heart, her mother had always been the one who knew her best and who supported her the most. Why was her mother now opposing this?

Wang Si Qin was very puzzled. She didn't speak, but instead looked at Li Su.

Li Su was very anxious. How should she explain this? She understood Wang Si Qin's ambitions and understood why Wang Si Qin wanted to enter the palace, but how could she tell Si Qin that she didn't want her to enter the palace because she was afraid that Si Qin would encounter the prince regent?!

The regent was at least a prince. If he had thoughts about Si Qin, then even if Yong An Mansion were to step in, it would be too late!

Li Su tried to patiently persuade Wang Si Qin. "Si Qin, if you want to be successful, there are many ways. There is no need to choose this way! You are still young and haven't learned enough. What can you do if you enter the palace now?"

"Mother, I have seriously thought about it. The world is unfair to women. A woman who wants to succeed by relying on her own strength is currently unable to do so. The reason why the female generals of the Yang Family could go to the battlefield was because they were members of the Yang Family. The men of the Yang Family had outstanding merits and convinced people of the Yang Family's strength and so the members of the Yang Family could go and prove themselves on the battlefield. Hua Mulan joined the army on behalf of her father under the guise of a man. If she hadn't, then she wouldn't have been able to even enter the barracks. I want to succeed, but it is hard to do so without relying on a man. Since I have to rely on a man, why can't I choose the most noble one? As long as I gain his trust, then my future path will be much easier."

Wang Si Qin analysed all this seriously.

"Mother is worried that I haven't learned enough. Don't forget that he is the prince and His Majesty's favourite son. He must have the best education. With him, what are you worried about? I can't do anything when I am this young, but this is the best time to get closer to him. Any relationship needs to be carefully managed, right mother?" Wang Si Qin stared at Li Su.

This was not what Li Su was the most worried about, but she couldn't tell Wang Si Qin what she was the most worried about. Li Su felt a little anxious.

Wang Si Qin squatted next to Li Su and held Li Su's hands. "Mother, what are you worried about?"

Li Su opened her mouth and finally said, "Si Qin, when you are in the palace… You are too young and your heart is unstable. Mother is worried…"

Wang Si Qin laughed. "Mother, are you worried that I will be swayed by the glory and wealth in the palace? You have been worrying too much. I have always been very clear about what I want. You can rest assured."

It would be strange if she felt assured, but Li Su was unable to refute Wang Si Qin. So, she could only accept this passively.

Li Su agreed. The others did not continue to insist. Only the old madam held Wang Si Qin and cried for several days. Wang Si Qin patiently accompanied the old madam for several days. During this time, she did not explain anything. She just accompanied the old madam.

Although the old madam was reluctant, she was also an enlightened person. She knew that Si Qin was a very thoughtful child. Although she loved this child, she would not object to what Si Qin wanted to do.

"Good child. Grandmother knows that you have many ideas, but grandmother wants you to understand that you need to protect yourself and do what you can. Don't forget that you still have your mother and us!"

Wang Si Qin smiled and put her arms around the old madam's neck. She leaned against the old madam's shoulders. "Grandmother, it is because of you that I dare to do what I want." You are my support, so that's why I can't hesitate. I will move forward courageously.

A month later, Imperial Princess An He entered the palace to greet the emperor. She sent someone over to the 18th prince.

The 18th prince looked at the palace lady standing in front of him after he read the letter. "Are you the palace lady sent by Imperial Princess An He?"

"Answering Your Highness, yes." Although a palace lady should refer to herself as a servant, Wang Si Qin did not want to refer to herself in that way unless it was a last resort.

"Have you read books?" The 18th prince knew that she was a relative of Yong An Mansion. Her biological mother was Yong An Mansion's niece and her biological father was unknown. Was she not afraid of being embarrassed in the future and wanting to find a way out? The 18th prince didn't mind if someone was ambitious, so long as they could be used by him.

"I have read a little with my cousins," Wang Si Qin said as she lowered her head.

"Then, tell me about this article," said the 18th prince as he pointed to the article in front of him.

Wang Si Qin raised her head and glanced at the passage in the Book of Rites. "The way of great learning is the highest virtue…" Wang Si Qin recited the full text fluently, then explained the meaning of the article, word-by-word.

At this time, the 18th prince looked at Wang Si Qin differently. "What you said is better than what Mr. Chu said."

"Thanking Your Highness for your praise," Wang Si Qin bowed her head and said respectfully.

Although the 18th prince was of royal blood, he still respected people who were better than him, especially when the person was a woman who was only a few years older than him. "Come and grind the ink for me!"

In fact, the 18th prince was surrounded by eunuchs who were responsible for grinding ink for him. This was just a way for him to show closeness.

"Yes, Your Highness." Wang Si Qin stood next to the 18th prince and began to grind ink.

The 18th prince saw her skill at grinding ink and said, "Write a few words."

Wang Si Qin was not afraid. She picked up the brush and wrote a few words. Although her penmanship was a little immature, it still looked decent.

The 18th prince looked at her handwriting, then looked at his own. He felt a little frustrated. "How do you practice your calligraphy?"

"The writing is not good, mainly because the wrist is not strong enough. This servant began to practice handwriting at the age of six and has practiced for more than a year. In order to practice handwriting, this servant would tie a lead block to the wrist. This servant would then practice for one to two hours a day. But, Your Highness is still young, so when Your Highness gets older, Your Highness will naturally write well." Wang Si Qin noticed the strange looking in the eunuch's eyes, so she immediately changed her words.

She started when she was six, but within a year she was able to write such characters! The 18th prince was a little shocked and looked at Wang Si Qin with a bit of admiration. Should he also wear a lead block on his wrist? Maybe he should try it as well. However, father emperor probably wouldn't agree.

It took Wang Si Qin 2 months to prove herself. The people who served the 18th prince saw that, under her guidance, the 18th prince's outlook and learning ability had greatly improved. They all put their guard down around her.

Even the old emperor was relieved after reading the recent work from the 18th prince as he heard the reports every day. The old emperor was satisfied with Yong An Mansion's move to send someone to the palace. Young An Mansion was the biggest help to Little Eighteen. Yong An Mansion had sensed his intentions and had responded in due course. This made him very happy.

He was old and Little Eighteen was young. Before he died, he had to arrange everything for Little Eighteen. His time was running out, so he had to pick up the pace.

In Rippling Wave Hall, the 18th prince was reading under a lamp. One of the 18th prince's wet nurses came in with a food box and saw that the 18th prince was reading. A glimmer of relief flashed in the wet nurse's eyes before she lowered her head. After hesitating for a long time, she opened the food box and took out the contents.

The wet nurse held the bowl with both hands. "Your Highness should read after taking a break. Drink some mung bean soup and wet your throat."

When the eunuch saw that the 18th prince had no objections, the eunuch took the food and took a bite. After 15 minutes with no abnormal reactions, he prepared to serve the mung bean soup to the 18th prince. Before he could do so, the wet nurse picked up the bowl and walked over to the 18th prince.

This move was suspicious to Wang Si Qin.

The 18th prince took the bowl and was about to drink it when Wang Si Qin said softly, "Your Highness just drank the iced plum soup. Drinking mung bean soup now is not good for the stomach. Your Highness should drink it later!"

The 18th prince thought about it, then put it aside.

When the wet nurse heard this, she glanced at Wang Si Qin, then tried to persuade him. "Your Highness, don't listen to what this little bitch says. It is hot, so why not have some mung bean soup?"

Maybe it was because the wet nurse was too impatient, but even Zhao Fu, the head eunuch of Rippling Wave Hall was also wary. He calmly walked a few steps and stood in front of the 18th prince. "You are before His Highness. Mrs. Li, don't forget your identity."

The wet nurse was afraid that if she continued, she would be exposed, so she had to retreat unwillingly.

Zhao Fu looked over, and the two guards followed the wet nurse. They knocked her out from behind and locked her up.

"Messenger, quietly have the imperial physician come," Zhao Fu ordered.

After a while, the imperial doctor arrived and found that there was nothing unusual about the mung bean soup. However, the bowl had something □□ on one side. As long as the soup was stirred a little, the □□ would mix in with the soup.

Everyone now understood why Mrs. Li personally delivered the mung bean soup to His Highness, the 18th prince.

Zhao Fu took a deep breath and ordered someone to send the imperial physician out. At the same time, he began to trace who Mrs. Li and her family had been in contact with recently. At the same time, His Majesty received the news.

"How did you know there was a problem with Mrs. Li?" Zhao Fu asked. Mrs. Li was one of the wet nurses whom Highest Ranking Imperial Concubine Su had personally selected for the 18th prince. She had served the 18th prince for many years and was loyal. After screening and clearing the people who served at Rippling Wave Hall, Mrs. Li had been deemed safe.

"Although it is hot, His Majesty's imperial physician has said that His Highness is not allowed to eat cold things if His Highness has stomach issues. His Highness had iced drinks half an hour ago. Because of this, His Highness can no longer have cold things today. Mrs. Li brought a bowl of mung bean soup for no reason. It is understandable if Mrs. Li felt sorry for His Highness, but Mrs. Li did something so obscure. Additionally, when His Highness eats, His Highness is served by the eunuch, but Mrs. Li avoided the eunuch," said Wang Si Qin calmly.

Zhao Fu nodded in satisfaction.

The 18th prince had become accustomed to such situations. Although he felt a little cold as Mrs. Li had served him for several years, she had betrayed him. No matter what her reason was, betrayal was betrayal. This was not worthy of forgiveness!

Chapter 118 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 18)

Soon, Xiang Zhong rushed over and whispered a few things to Zhao Fu. After that, the people who served in Rippling Waves Hall were screened and cleared again.

Needless to say, Mrs. Li and all the personnel related to the mung bean soup were cleaned out. As for what happened to them… Nobody cared.

In Rippling Wave Hall, it was just as quiet as before, but the fate of many people had changed overnight. Only the 18th prince and Wang Si Qin were calm and composed.

When they were about to sleep, the 18th prince suddenly asked, "Si Qin, do you think that I am too cold?"

Wang Si Qin was immersed in her book, so she didn't react immediately. She was stunned for a moment, then laughed when she realised what the 18th prince said. "Those who become big don't worry about these trivial matters. If Your Highness turned from duty for the sake of love, then it would be something the servants would need to worry about!"

"Aren't you afraid? Mrs. Li was my wet nurse. She has served me for many years, not taking credit and working hard," the 18th prince said.

"But she betrayed Your Highness. No matter why, betrayal is betrayal. It can't be forgiven!" said Wang Si Qin.

Although Wang Si Qin couldn't see the 18th prince's face, she felt that the 18th prince should be happy right now.

The mung bean soup incident came to a silent end. A group of people died in the palace, then nothing else happened.

Yong An Mansion also received the news and Li Su sighed in relief when she heard the 18th prince was safe. Si Qin would be fine if the 18th prince was fine.

"It was said that, due to Si Qin's cleverness, the 18th prince is safe. She noticed an abnormality," said Xiao Qi Zhi. His voice could not hide his praise for Si Qin.

He began to think that sending Si Qin to the 18th prince was a good idea.

"Su Su, the palace sent rewards. His Majesty gave you a reward under the guise of a reward to Imperial Princess. You need to accept it. The same goes for Si Qin," Xiao Qi Zhi continued.

Li Su nodded. "I see. Thank you, uncle."

"Don't worry. We have people around Si Qin, so she won't get into trouble. By the way, Si Qin sent a letter asking if you have any new scripts. If so, she would like a few sent to her," said Xiao Qi Zhi.

"Ah? Can I? Wouldn't it be seen as sending things privately?" Li Su asked.

Li Su's words made everyone else laugh.

Xiao Qi Zhi endured a smile. "Princess is going to the palace tomorrow to pay her respects. If you have anything you want to give to Si Qin, bring it in tomorrow!"

Li Su knew that she might have asked a stupid question, so she smiled, embarrassed.

The next day, Princess Qing Shan entered the palace. She first greeted the empress dowager and the empress before going to Rippling Waves Hall. The 18th prince went to study and Wang Si Qin was tidying up the study. Wang Si Qin was a little excited when she heard that Princess Qing Shan was here.

"I pay my respects to the princess."

"No need. Get up quickly!" Princess Qing Shan was also happy to see her and beckoned her over. She looked at Si Qin carefully and nodded in satisfaction. "You have grown taller and have gained some weight. I will go back and tell your mother and grandmother so they can rest assured."

Wang Si Qin nodded. "Everything is fine with me. How is mother? How are grandmother and the others? Are they okay?"

"Everything is fine, but we miss you a lot." Princess Qing Shan smiled and then asked a maid to take the package. "Here is what your mother and everyone else prepared for you. We can't give you things to eat, so I brought something else. There are some scripts that you asked for, and some clothes your mother made for you. There is also silver. Don't treat yourself badly in the palace, okay? Remember what your uncle and granduncle said to you before you entered the palace."

Wang Si Qin nodded. Before she entered the palace, her granduncle told her several names and asked her to find those people if she needed anything. They would help her.

But, Wang Si Qin had never contacted those people. She didn't want to expose those relationships unless it was as a last resort. No emperor would want to see his courtiers unite with those around him, even if they had no malicious intentions and merely wanted to protect themselves.

Granduncle and Princess Qing Shan obviously understood this, but still told her, just in case.

Wang Si Qin knew their feelings, but she had confidence that she could protect herself.

Princess Qing Shan felt it was a shame that Wang Si Qin was so sensible, but she admired Wang Si Qin's self-confidence.

The two spoke for a while before the 18th prince came back and called out, "Third older sister!"

"Eighteenth younger brother is back," Princess Qing Shan said with a smile. She looked kindly at the 18th prince, just like an elder looking at a junior. In fact, it was basically like this. Some of Princess Qing Shan's grandsons were a few years older than the 18th prince. "Why does it seem like you are a little thinner? Is it because you've lost your appetite?"

The 18th prince smiled gently.

Princess Qing Shan had grown up in the palace, so she naturally understood what the food in the palace was like. It seemed like it was the same.

Princess Qing Shan stopped talking. The 18th prince said with a smile, "Third older sister can just speak."

"Recently, the old madam can't eat much. My niece came up with a kind of food called liangpi1. It is sour, spicy, and refreshing. It is very appetising. However, you know that this kind of food is not easy to send to the palace. Why don't I ask someone to write down the recipe and let the people in the imperial kitchens try to make it so that eighteenth younger brother can try it?" Princess Qing Shan said.

In fact, when Si Qin was not in the house, Su Su spent her time eating and writing scripts. Su Su ended up making a lot of fresh food which the entire house enjoyed. However, she had better not take risks in the palace.

The 18th prince nodded. "Thank you, third older sister." The feeling of someone caring about you is pretty good. Third older sister treated him normally before. She had only recently gotten closer. The 18th prince knew why, but didn't feel uncomfortable about it.

Yong An Mansion was a hereditary title. They had always been loyal to father emperor and never participated in the battle of succession. Their attitude was to stay away. But, now that they were close, this revealed another attitude.

Yong An Mansion was the arm left by father emperor for him. For now, he could trust them.

Princess Qing Shan looked at the 18th prince, who was like a small adult. She thought that her grandson, Yan Xi, who was the same age as 18th younger brother, would act like a child and jump into an adult's arms, but 18th younger brother… The world admired the power the supreme seat held, but the world often forgot that to sit in that seat, one had to pay for it through things ordinary people couldn't imagine.

To be standing at the top was a lonely position. The heights were so cold!

After Princess Qing Shan left, the 18th prince practiced calligraphy. Wang Si Qin stood aside and silently recited the book she had just read. Suddenly, the 18th prince stopped writing. "Is third older sister's niece your mother? I've heard Bao'er mention her many times before."

Wang Si Qin was stunned. She didn't quite understand the meaning of the 18th prince's words.

"If you think about it, we are also relatives."

Wang Si Qin was a little speechless. Should she think like this? Probably not? His Highness was such an old man and he shouldn't say such boring things. "This servant doesn't dare!"

The 18th prince continued. "Third older sister is your grandmother by marriage, so I should be in your grandfather's generation?"

Wang Si Qin looked at the 18th prince with wide eyes.

The palace ladies waiting around also looked at the 18th prince strangely.

Perhaps it was Wang Si Qin's speechless expression that made the 18th prince happy. Before Wang Si Qin could say anything, he continued to practice calligraphy.

Wang Si Qin looked at Zhao Fu, speechless. "Your Highness, what's the matter?"

Zhao Fu looked at the 18th prince with a rare look and a smile. His Highness had gotten livelier recently, which was good. He was afraid that His Highness would be sad for a while due to Mrs. Li's betrayal. As expected of His Highness!

Time passed and there was another disturbance in court. The eldest son of Cheng En Gong forced himself on a married woman. After he woke from his drunken stupor, he killed the witnesses to silence them, therefore killing all 7 family members.

His Majesty was furious, removed the position of Cheng En Gong's eldest son, and had him caned 50 times.

Cheng En Gong had 3 younger brothers, but none had heirs. There was only one son amongst the 3 of them and the rest were daughters. Now that the only male had his title taken, who was going to inherit the title in the future?

Not long after, Princess Consort Chu's eldest brother's scandal broke out. He had a mistress he was supporting. Having a mistress was nothing out of the ordinary, usually, but Princess Consort Chu was from a family of esteemed scholars and their father was the Minister of Rites, so etiquette was of utmost importance. Now, his son had caused such a thing.

Just when Prince Qi and Prince Chu were about to attack each other, the emperor dropped a bomb. The 18th prince was decreed the crown prince. Yong An Mansion was named as the crown prince's imperial tutor. State Official Zhen was the crown prince's grandmaster. Yong Ning Mansion was the crown prince's high official. State Official Qi would be the crown prince's little master. Yong Ping Mansion was the crown prince's young teacher. The Minister of War would serve to protect the crown prince.

After this imperial decree, Prince Qi and Prince Chu were stupefied. They watched, stunned, as father emperor held Little Eighteen's hand. They watched Little Eighteen accept the bows of the civil and military officials. Finally, they knelt down in front of father emperor.

At the same time, the emperor also named the deceased Highest Ranking Imperial Concubine Su as the crown prince's mother as well as the empress.

As soon as the decree was announced, the empress fainted immediately. After she woke up, she ran to the empress dowager's palace and cried, "I am still alive. Your Majesty decreed that Mrs. Su is the empress. Your Majesty, is this where I die?"

The empress dowager glanced at her stupid niece in disgust. She was so smart as a child. Why was she so stupid now?! Doesn't she know what this means? She only cared about the position of the empress. What an idiot! Why did she choose such an idiot to enter the palace in the first place?!

The empress dowager was not the emperor's birth mother, so she had a very unstable position. In order to win over the emperor, she brought her most outstanding niece into the palace and made her the empress. She didn't expect that the one she had carefully chosen to enter the palace would be such a dunce. Not only did she not give birth to any children, but she was played by the emperor!

Chapter 119 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 19)

Xiao Qi Zhi stood in front of the newly repaired Eastern Palace and took a deep breath before he strode in. As the crown prince's grandmaster, Xiao Qi Zhi would go to the Eastern Palace every day to teach the crown prince.

Today was his first visit to the Eastern Palace.

In Primary Green Hall in the Eastern Palace, Crown Prince Li Qi Ming was already sitting at the table.

After Xiao Qi Zhi entered, he first greeted the crown prince. The crown prince then gave a half bow.

Xiao Qi Zhi saw Si Qin standing behind the crown prince in a brand-new palace outfit. He smiled slightly. Since Si Qin was here, then the crown prince obviously trusted her.

She did it.

After the lecture, Xiao Qi Zhi was about to leave the palace when he saw Wang Si Qin standing outside the hall, waiting for him and holding a bag.

"His Highness has allowed me to leave the palace to visit my family. I can return tomorrow after noon," Wang Si Qin said with a smile.

Xiao Qi Zhi was stunned. He then smiled. "Okay, your mother will be very happy." Xiao Qi Zhi had not planned on going back to the mansion. He had planned on going to the Ministry of War, but now he changed his mind.

Xiao Qi Zhi and Wang Si Qin turned around to leave. Suddenly, someone from the hall chased them. "Si Qin, wait a minute! His Highness wants to know where you put the Zhao Ming Literary Works."

"The Zhao Ming Literary Works? They should be on the second bookshelf. It should be the seventh book on the third shelf," said Wang Si Qin without thinking.

The messenger remembered this. "Okay, I've remembered it." Then, he smiled and said, "Si Qin, come back early. Nobody is allowed to enter His Highness' study."

"I know. I will be back tomorrow afternoon." Wang Si Qin smiled.

While they were leaving the palace, Xiao Qi Zhi asked, "You can enter and leave His Highness' study freely?"

Wang Si Qin nodded. "I have always cleaned His Highness' study. His Highness is afraid that others will mess up, so he doesn't allow them to enter." There were all kinds of people around His Highness. Wang Si Qin understood that if she wanted to stand next to His Highness, she had to have skills that others did not and make herself indispensable to His Highness.

After careful observation, Wang Si Qin found a way. With her own hard work and abilities, she kept track of the books in His Highness' study and created a unique method of managing them. She noted down the locations of all the books in the study so she could accurately and quickly find the books that His Highness needed.

After he came down a few times, His Highness allowed Wang Si Qin to accompany him every time he read in the study. After a long time, she had slowly managed to organise and clean up His Highness' study. Nobody else could enter it casually. When His Highness was reading and went riding, Wang Si Qin could enjoy the books in the study freely.

Of course, Wang Si Qin would not touch things she wasn't allowed to, not even if she was curious. She believed that sooner or later, she would have the opportunity to look at them, but it wasn't time yet.

This might be the crown prince's test for her. She was not afraid.

Wang Si Qin knew that, in order to realise her dream, she would need to put in more effort. She was doing so now, but it was far from enough. Before she could achieve her dream, she had to read as much as possible. She liked the feeling of reading. It made her excited and content!

Xiao Qi Zhi knew that Si Qin had already gained the crown prince's trust, but he did not expect that the crown prince would trust Si Qin so much. Although the crown prince was young, he had already been exposed to government affairs. Those must be in the study. The crown prince really…

"Si Qin!" Xiao QI Zhi felt that he had to remind her, even if she knew it herself. "His Highness asked you to organise his study. This is the trust His Highness has placed in you. You must live up to His Highness' trust." Not only could she not touch things, but she couldn't tell anyone what she saw.

Xiao Qi Zhi didn't say this, but he knew that Si Qin should understand what he meant.

"Don't worry, granduncle, I know." Wang Si Qin smiled. She was not stupid. How could she dig herself a hole like that.

Xiao Qi Zhi nodded. Si Qin had always been smart. "Go back and instruct Yan Xi and the others. Let them know of the difference between you and them. Otherwise, they'll think highly of themselves and consider themselves infallible."

Wang Si Qin laughed and said, "Older brother Yan Xi and the others are all very good. Granduncle, you are too demanding." Xiao Yan Xi and the others were already qualified and were considered very good amongst their peers.

Of course, they couldn't be compared to her. Everyone's starting point was different. She didn't have a high starting point. She needed to work harder than ordinary people to climb up faster.

That night, Li Qi Ming was practicing calligraphy. As soon as he sat down, he felt a little awkward. He turned his head slightly and looked unhappy. "You are blocking my light!"

The maid standing next to him quickly took 2 steps back.

Li Qi Ming held back his displeasure and picked up his brush to continue practicing. After a while, he frowned. "More ink!"

The palace lady hurriedly stepped forward to grind the ink and therefore blocked the light again. Li Qi Ming put down his brush in anger. The palace lady was so stupid. She didn't even know how to grind ink. She was so dumb. When Si Qin was there, she did very well!

The palace lady knelt on the ground in fright. "Your Highness, forgive this servant!"

Zhao Fu heard movement and entered, waving his hand. "Leave!" Then, he smiled and said, "This old servant is here to wait on Your Highness."

Then, he came forward to grind the ink.

Li Qi Ming continued to practice his calligraphy.

After practicing for an hour, Li Qi Ming put down his pen. Zhao Fu handed over a cup of hot tea. Li Qi Ming took a sip and, out of habit, said, "Si Qin, let's play chess!"

After he finished speaking, Li Qi Ming realised why that night felt awkward. Si Qin was not here.

Li Qi Ming sighed a little. He seemed to rely on Wang Si Qin a little too much, which wasn't a good sign. Li Qi Ming was determined to get rid of this habit. So, he asked someone to set up the chessboard and randomly found someone to accompany him to play chess.

But, it felt wrong. When Si Qin played chess with him, she had to wrack her brains to win. She was very happy, even if she only won half the time.

But the people playing chess with him were trying to figure out how to lose to him without him noticing. It was so boring!

Li Qi Ming threw the chess piece on the board. "No more. I'm tired!"

Zhao Fu looked at Li Qi Ming's back and sighed.

In fact, His Highness' reliance on Si Qin was known earlier to those who served His Highness. The reason why they didn't stop it was that they didn't know what His Highness was thinking and they were afraid of offending His Highness. Additionally, Si Qin was a clever child who was eager to learn. Currently, her presence was a good influence on His Highness. His Highness had no playmates since he was a child. When His Highness looked more like his age when he was with Si Qin.

Now that His Highness had noticed, what would he do?

Wang Si Qin returned to Yong An Mansion like a fish to water, like a bird into the forest. She was so happy. She didn't think of anything and merely enjoyed the love from her mother and elders.

Early the next morning, people came to the Eastern Palace and said that the crown prince dictated that the women of the palace were to go to the imperial palace.

Yong An Mansion and Wang Si Qin thought that something had happened, so they didn't dare to ask casually. They hurriedly asked Wang Si Qin to follow the people back to the palace.

After Wang Si Qin left, Li Su recalled that the Eastern Palace was the focus of everyone's attention. If something happened in the Eastern Palace, then how could it be so peaceful? The eunuch's expression was also subdued.

What happened?

Wang Si Qin also had this doubt in her heart. She hurried back to the palace only to find that the Eastern Palace was as per normal. When she asked, His Highness was well and he was practicing riding and shooting. There was nothing wrong with him!

Why was she called back in a hurry? She and her mother were going to make rouge together that morning.

Since she was back, she didn't bother with those who were missing. Wang Si Qin went to the study and saw the mess. She was speechless and began to sort it out in silence.

Li Qi Ming came back from school and changed his clothes. "Where is Si Qin?"

"She has returned and is now in the study," said Zhao Fu as he offered a cup of hot tea.

When Li Qi Ming heard this, he moved to walk to the study. But, halfway through the action, he stopped. "Oh!"

Zhao Fu watched from behind, feeling somewhat helpless. Obviously, His Highness had called Wang Si Qin back, but he pretended that he didn't care. Why did he bother to embarrass himself like this?!

His Highness hummed and hawed, and ended up not sleeping well that night. Those waiting on him looked at him in distress. Fortunately, in the morning, His Highness finally understood and ordered Si Qin to come back. This meeting was awkward again.

They also thought about it clearly. Sooner or later, His Highness would have a caring person to serve him. Instead of those women who didn't know better, it was better to have Si Qin. Although she was related to Yong An Mansion, her biological father was unknown. Her identity was good for a concubine. They also knew Si Qin's character. If she really became the favoured concubine of His Highness, she would probably be like Empress Xiao Quan, and not a demonic woman who would try and ruin the country.

Although, His Highness was still young. Who knew what would happen in the future?

Over there, Wang Si Qin had heard that the crown prince had returned to the palace, so she hurriedly left the study to meet him. She didn't expect the crown prince to treat her indifferently. She had no idea what was wrong.

Wang Si Qin didn't bother. After she greeted the crown prince, she withdrew. There were still a lot of things for her to do. She didn't know what His Highness did yesterday for the study to be in such a mess. She had spent the entire morning organising it and hadn't finished yet.

Li Qi Ming blushed in anger when he saw her like this.

But after a while, he felt that this was too much. It was obvious that Si Qin didn't know anything.

Finally, Li Qi Ming went to the study. Wang Si Qin was standing on the ladder and organising his books.

"Was it fun going home?" Li Qi Ming asked after he watched her for a while. Although Wang Si Qin didn't say anything, her expression told him. Wang Si Qin was in a good mood.

Wang Si Qin was startled and looked down at the crown prince. She then went down the ladder.

Li Qi Ming waved his hand. "You don't need to be polite." He then took a book and handed it to Wang Si Qin and the two of them started to converse.

"It was fun. We ate barbeque in the garden last night. Although the meat was burnt, it was very interesting. Everyone was happy," Wang Si Qin said with a smile.

"Oh," said Li Qi Ming. "From now on, you can leave the palace once a month. You can go in the morning, but come back before the palace gate closes at night."

Wang Si Qin was a little surprised, but she shook her head and refused. "Thank you for your kindness, but forget it! Your Highness has just become the master of the Eastern Palace. If His Highness breaks the rules for His Highness' people, then His Highness will be criticised. Moreover, if this starts, then more people will follow suit. In that case, what will happen? Since His Highness has now become the crown prince, His Highness must abide by the rules. Just know that this servant's family are doing well."

Li Qi Ming glanced at her and then nodded. He casually took a book and sat on the steps to read. Wang Si Qin had sorted out all the books at her feet. It was difficult to get past him to get the other books, so she had to sit down to grab them. The master and the servant read the books one by one.

Chapter 120 – The Widow's Adopted Daughter (part 20)

Time flew. Two years had passed in a flash. When the new year had barely begun, the emperor suddenly fainted at court.

The ruling and opposition parties were shocked and panicked.

After the imperial physician treated His Majesty, the emperor woke up and ordered the crown prince to supervise the country, Yong An Mansion, Official Qi, and the others. Even if the emperor arranged everything, then so what? The human heart was the most unpredictable thing.

The chaos happened suddenly. Even if the emperor had prepared for a long time, the situation was still out of control.

Prince Qi and Prince Chu cooperated with the empress dowager and the empress and launched a coup.

There were loud voices outside the Eastern Palace. The guards of the Eastern Palace faced off against the rebel army. The sound of fighting continued.

Li Qi Ming sat upright and practiced his calligraphy. He asked calmly, "Si Qin, are you afraid?"

Wang Si Qin's expression was as usual. She kept grinding the ink. "This servant is not afraid. It is just some clowns!"

Li Qi Ming glanced at her, then lowered his head to continue to practice calligraphy.

Zhao Fu wiped the sweat from his forehead, then turned to look at the two calm people. Si Qin and His Highness were really a good match. There wasn't a person present who wasn't nervous and trembling. Even he was prepared to die. But, the two of them were calm.

The sound of fighting was getting closer. Everyone's expressions became more solemn. Some of them couldn't bear the pressure and were afraid, so they fainted.

Nobody cared about that woman at the moment, so she was left to lie on the cold ground.

Zhao Fu stood at the forefront as he nervously stared at the door. They were the last line of defence. Whoever dared to hurt His Highness would have to step on his bones!

The sound of fighting was getting closer and closer. Suddenly, a sharp whistle was heard. Everyone relaxed a little, then tensed. It was the Long Jinwei, who were responsible for guarding His Majesty. They actually came. Did His Majesty ask them to protect the crown prince? Or, did it mean that the crisis on His Majesty's side was resolved?

After an hour, everyone heard a familiar voice. "Official Chen from Yong An Mansion, Xiao Qi Zhi, pays respect to His Highness. The rebel party has been wiped out. Please rest assured, Your Highness."

Everyone was relieved. Zhao Fu hurriedly ordered people to open the door. When the door opened, the cold wind blew in with the scent of snow and blood. Xiao Qi Zhi walked in covered in blood. When Xiao Qi Zhi saw Li Qi Ming sitting down, he was relieved. "His Majesty… His Majesty was worried about Your Highness' safety and ordered the Long Jinwei to come and protect His Highness. Now that the chaos encircling the Eastern Palace has been wiped out, Your Highness can rest assured. This minister will also go and suppress the remaining rebels. Xiao Zhen Shu will be responsible for guarding the Eastern Palace."

Li Qi Ming put aside his pen and nodded slightly. "Thank you, grandmaster!"

Xiao Qi Zhi glanced at Wang Si Qin before he turned away.

Wang Si Qin was a little worried. Granduncle was covered in blood. She didn't know if he was injured, and if he was, whether it was serious.

Li Qi Ming stood up and strode forward. Wang Si Qin calmed down and quickly followed.

When Li Qi Ming reached the door, Zhao Fu stopped him. "Your Highness, it's dangerous."

"As the crown prince of Daqi, I want to see the soldiers who sacrificed themselves to protect us! Step aside!" Li Qi Ming said solemnly.

Zhao Fu frowned and looked at Wang Si Qin. He hoped that Wang Si Qin would persuade His Highness. Wang Si Qin did not say anything and stood next to Li Qi Ming.

Xiao Zhen Shu then tried to persuade instead. "Your Highness, a man of virtue should not stand under a dangerous wall1.

Li Qi Ming glanced over at Xiao Zhen Shu, who stopped talking. Yes, apart from being His Highness, he was also his wife's uncle. He was a lowly person and did not dare to persuade His Highness anymore. So, he could only do his best to protect His Highness.

It was snowing heavily, but it couldn't cover all the blood on the ground or the scent of blood in the air. The guards kept dragging away the dead bodies of the so-called rebel party as well as the guards of the Eastern Palace.

They were all citizens of Daqi.

Li Qi Ming felt heavy. He turned around to go to Supreme Hall.

The rebel party outside Supreme Hall had also been wiped out. When everyone saw Li Qi Ming, they knelt down and asked for peace. "Where is father emperor?" Li Qi Ming asked when he saw Xiang Zhong's apprentice, Xiao Shun Zi.

"Your Highness is great. His Majesty was worried about Your Highness and sent the Long Jinwei to the Eastern Palace. Supreme Hall was almost captured by those rebels. It was fortunate that, at that time, His Highness Prince Yan appeared and led the guards against the rebels, therefore buying time for Official Zhen and the others to come to the rescue. It was just that His Majesty was angry and fell unconscious. His Majesty is awake now. Presently, Prince Yan, Yong An Mansion, and others are all inside. Your Highness, go in!" Xiao Shun Zi said.

Li Qi Ming's eyes flashed. Prince Yan, his 7th older brother, had always remained hidden. He hated himself for being young and not strong enough!

When Li Qi Ming entered the hall, he happened to see Prince Yan. Prince Yan smiled slightly. "I greet the crown prince."

However, Li Qi Ming looked solemn. He adjusted his clothes and gave him a big gift. "Younger brother wants to thank seventh older brother for saving father emperor. Thank you, seventh older brother!"

Prince Yan's smile stiffened. He kept silent and merely paid a respectful greeting. He didn't dare to underestimate his 18th younger brother, even if he was still young. It was a pity that the two idiots used most of their power and failed to kill him this time. But, he still had time. He waited for so many years, so he could wait a few more.

"Your Majesty!" Xiang Zhong wailed.

Li Qi Ming's eyes widened. He didn't care about anything else and ran inside. Prince Yan also put on a sad expression and ran after him.

The old emperor died and left a message behind before his death. He decreed that the crown prince would succeed him, with Prince Yan as the regent. Yong An Mansion, Official Zhen, Official Qi, and An Ping Mansion will assist with government affairs. When the new emperor gets married, then the government affairs will return to him.

After Xiang Zhong delivered the old emperor's verbal message, he smashed himself to death on a pillar and followed the old emperor.

This news was beyond the expectations of many, but it was also expected by many. The crown prince's succession and Yong An Mansion's assistance in government affairs was expected. However, Prince Yan becoming the regent was unexpected.

After the dust settled, Li Su heard the imperial decree. Just like the rest of the people, she was shocked.

Princess Qing Shan couldn't believe her ears. "Seventh younger brother bravely rescued them and became the regent? How is this possible? Wasn't he bad at it?" As soon as she said this, Princess Qing Shan knew what she had said was stupid. What did she mean by bad? Seventh younger brother pretending to be a pig so he could eat the tiger!

Li Su felt that the dust had finally settled. So he was the regent! Although Li Su had never seen Prince Yan, it did not prevent her from cursing the regent hundreds of times in her heart. However, no matter how Prince Yan became the regent, there was still a big difference in this life.

For example, Yong An Mansion and the others were assisting the government. The regent couldn't do it by himself. So, would the tragedy of Yong An Mansion and Si Qin happen again?

Then, Li Su thought of Si Qin again. Now that Si Qin was in the palace, would the regent go after her?

Li Su began to worry again.

In fact, Li Su was really worried. The most important thing to the regent was to consolidate his power. Besides, how old was Wang Si Qin? The regent would never be tempted by a child. That would make him a paedophile and a pervert.

Wang Si Qin carried a box of food and walked to Li Qi Ming's side. She opened it and revealed a bowl of congee and some side dishes. "Your Majesty, your body is important. Eat something!"

Li Qi Ming didn't move. He just stared at the golden coffin in front of him. He didn't know what happened at Supreme Hall that night, but he knew his father's feelings towards him. He believed that his father would not let 7th older brother be the regent. Xiang Zhong had died, leaving no evidence.

Xiang Zhong… He still betrayed father emperor!

Wang Si Qin said softly, "Your Majesty, the future is long. Your body is important."

Perhaps it was because the deceased empress, who gave birth to Li Qi Ming, had passed the optimal age for childbearing so Li Qi Ming's body was not very good. But, the people around him took good care of him. However, Li Qi Ming still got sick every time the season changed.

Li Qi Ming took a deep breath and looked at Wang Si Qin, nodding.

Li Qi Ming sat at the table and ate the bowl of congee. He suddenly remembered something. "Si Qin, did you want to leave the palace and return home?"

Leave the palace at this time? Would this not be a waste of all her previous efforts? Wang Si Qin knelt down without thinking. "This servant does not want to leave the palace."

Li Qi Ming looked at Wang Si Qin and slowly said, "Okay, get up!" This was the last chance he gave her and she didn't take it. From now on, she couldn't blame him.

Time flew and 3 years passed in a flash. In the past 3 years, Li Qi Ming was able to calm down and keep his filial piety for the previous emperor for 3 years, earning him the reputation of having pure filial piety. He knew what he was lacking, so he kept his filial piety while he learned.

Fortunately, there was still the auxiliary minister. The regent was not as powerful.

Everything was calm.

Over there, Li Su looked at Wang Si Qin, who was walking far away. This was what was known as the light and playful years. She was like a cardamom flower budding in early spring. That was probably it!

Li Su felt proud and worried.

"Mother, what do you think?" Wang Si Qin walked in and couldn't help but smile. She saw that her mother had a very good life in the past few years. In addition, her mother's mentality was very good. Even though the years went by, her mother was getting younger.

"Nothing! Why are you back? How is everything? You haven't met the regent lately, have you?" Li Su asked as she held her daughter's hand.

Wang Si Qin shook her head. She was almost inseparable from His Majesty at the palace. She would naturally meet the regent often. She also understood what her mother was worried about. As she grew older, the regent looked at her more. In the past few days, the regent looked at her with less restraint.

His Majesty seemed to have noticed, so she was rarely asked to leave Supreme Hall alone. Whenever the regent entered the palace, she would avoid him.

However, she could handle these things for now, so she shouldn't let her mother know. She didn't want to trouble her mother more. "Mother, don't worry. With the regent's status, how could I easily meet him?"

Li Su was Wang Si Qin's mother so how could she not know that Wang Si Qin was only telling her the good news and leaving out the worrisome news? Although her uncles comforted her by telling her that His Majesty would take care of Si Qin, Li Su still worried.

Li Su had thought about assassinating the regent, but she was stopped before she even left the mansion. After two of her uncles and some cousins learned of her thoughts, they sent someone to monitor her for 3 months to make sure she had really given up on this absurd idea.

Later, Xiao Zhen Ting took her out of the house quietly. After she saw the regent's combat condition, she really dispelled that idea. She didn't indulge in that fantasy. She wouldn't overestimate herself and try to take on someone more powerful than her!

1.(君子不立危牆之下) preventing something is better than having to deal with the aftermath of an injury later.↩