Yan Zi, a botanist and author, accidentally transmigrated into her own historical novel as the notorious villainess. She meets Xu Kai, the handsome Co-Commander of the Imperial Military Guards, who is attracted to her during their dangerous missions together.
However, knowing that she will not have a happy ending as a villainess, Yan Zi refuses to fall in love with Xu Kai. But somehow after escaping an unexpected intruder attack, watching the stars under the waxing moon, and spending a sweet and sweaty night together, everything starts to change.
Start: April 14th, 2020
End: July 25th, 2020
- Cover belongs to the rightful owner(s).
"Hilarious, smart, entertaining, and wickedly tender... This novel is stuffed with memorable characters, fizzling with deliciously acidic humor. A great read that will make you cheer, laugh, and
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HomeThe Tale of A Villainess Ch 1: Broke But Robbed, Sleep
CH 1: BROKE BUT ROBBED, SLEEP
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The truth is, I have always been a good girl.
When I saw an old ma'am broke her back, I carried her from the stop light to her apartment. It is, by the way, a few miles away. Til' this day, I still don't understand why she had to go that far to buy groceries when there is already one nearby the apartment.
I live with my roommate who never cleans the room. I took on the responsibility to do so, but all I have ever got in return is carbon dioxide—which is quite inexpensive if you ask me.
My parents bid me to become a doctor, since I had a passion for health and wellness as a teen. Throughout my progress, I have realized that education is learning what you didn't even know you didn't know.
I followed their instructions until I attended college; I gradually grew apart from medicine because it just wasn't for me. It was then I decided to become a writer. I gravitated towards historical novels; you know, the kind that makes your heart tingle and make you chuckle like a twelve year old girl.
As a filial daughter, however, I still promised them I will study something close to medicine.. turns out, I chose to study plants.
You know what they say, never go to a doctor whose office plants have died. Botany was my best bet to study aside; I actually favored studying and experimenting with plants, although not as much as writing.
I question my decision now, of course, considering I am quite broke as a creator. Eating cup noodles and spending days and nights writing drafts have exhausted me to the point I seriously contemplate my life. Did I say it is difficult to pay for rent as a writer? And I have to constantly ask my parents for money?
The embarrassment!
Gee, I sure wish money grows on trees. Sure, money doesn't buy happiness. It does, however, pay for sesame Korean barbecue chicken wings and that is practically equivalent to happiness. At least to me.
And so when trouble knocks at the door, I greatly welcome it. After all, I am ready for a change.
But this is not the change that I meant.
Oh no, it is not even close.
I ended up being robbed in the streets. And it was under the broad day light.
Are you kidding me?!
This young man stole my purse out of my bare hands. But hey, it's not like I care anyways. I didn't even have any money left in there. I did have my food coupons in there though. Hopefully it'll be of use to him.
I found refuge in sleeping. I slept to relieve the feelings of inadequacy. That is the only way to escape my capricious life. I occasionally cried, which in response, caused my eyes to be swollen. The bags under my eyes become larger; I see a panda when I see my reflection in the mirror. Now, I am ugly AND broke.
How tragic.
My sheltering, perhaps conservative parents are growing grey, and yet I cannot even care for them. Such pitiful life.
I am such a loser.
And then something strange happens.
At first it is just a voice.
Then, I hear incoherent voices whispering to each other. I proceed to see faces— blurry faces.
The next day, it becomes more apparent. I even feel something warm and soft caress my cheeks. This time, I hear a cry. It isn't long until I smell fire powder.
Soon, I hear screams and yells loud and clear. It's unmistakable. Someone shakes me, hoping that I would regain consciousness.
The shaking is ineffective and to no avail, because everything went blank and I lost all my
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HomeThe Tale of A Villainess Ch 2: Transmigration, Ming Dynasty
CH 2: TRANSMIGRATION, MING DYNASTY
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I wake up panicking.
Touching my face, hands, and legs, I realize that none of my body parts are gone.
Phew.
I force my body up and glance around, sighting the mahogany bed and the ancient Chinese artifacts around me. What is this?
An overwhelming exhaustion causes me to lose my balance and I rest myself on the bed again.
A beautiful lady, about sixteen years of age, enters the room. With porcelain white skin, silky black hair, blended with a floral aura, she shockingly glances at me. She is dressed in traditional Chinese garments, clothings that appear to reflect those worn in the ancient Chinese dynasties. Upon seeing me tilt my brows in confusion, she gasps and calls out, "Xiu Ying, come! Sister is awake!"
Xiu Ying? How coincidental. I have used that name in my novel.
A little lady speedily enters the room with a wooden salad bowl filled with water. "Young Miss!" She immediately laying the bowl on the table. "Is this what you need?" She dresses simply, with little to no embellishment in her makeup nor outfit.
Startled, I apprehensively look at them.
Was I abducted to film a historical show?
Or don't tell me..
I transmigrated into one of the Chinese dynasties?
"No, no. That's impossible," I utter unbelievably. My eyes are wide open as I stare at them hysterically. But isn't that usually what happens in novels?
Oh, the gracious and merciful Heavens..
Please don't set me up in this trap. I might have written about transmigration but I don't truly want to go back in time. Who will visit my parents? Who will clean the apartment?
"Sister, are you alright? Thank the Heavens, who have pardoned us!" The fragrance of chamomile dances into my nose as the lady embraces me. As she lets go, my mind continues to drift off, thinking about my family.
Mom.. dad.. My non-existent fan base!
"Quick, Xiu Ying. Go beckon mother and father. Tell them sister awoke, would you?"
Xiu Ying nods, "Yes Miss," before she disappears in a quick second.
The lady, who expresses a heavenly presence, holds my hands. "Sister, does your head hurt? Do you need me to assist you with anything?"
I shake my head awkwardly, attempting to remain calm. "I'm fine, little lady."
She says, "Elder sister, please do tell me if you hold any grudges against me. I will change, if you would like. Ning'er don't want there to be any bitterness between us." Her eyes sparkle as she speaks; such fragility blended with beauty— I can't.
I tighten my grasp on her hands and smile. "I don't know what you're talking about, but yes, I agree."
The pure child frowns and her brows furrow, "Sister.. Do you not remember what happened before the fire?"
Oh right..
If I transmigrated, then I have to act like the original female character. But darn it! Unlike the novels, I don't have any prior memories associated with this body. How am I suppose to-
I shake my head, "I.." I reconsider what to say before continuing, "My head hurts and I cannot seem to reminisce back to what happened. Do you care to tell me what era is this?"
The lady wonders, "Why, sister, it's the reign of the Ming, under Emperor Jia Jing. It seems you've really forgotten everything." She gently caresses my cheeks and nods with exuberance, "But don't worry, sister. I will help you regain your memories back!"
Emperor Jia Jing.. Ming Dynasty..
I grinned at her adorable actions, "Thank you."
I scratch my head, crying inside.
Are you kidding me,
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HomeThe Tale of A Villainess Ch 3: Yuan, A Thousand Canola Blossoms
CH 3: YUAN, A THOUSAND CANOLA BLOSSOMS
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Not long after, a loud raspy voice vibrates into the room.
"Yuan Zi Yan!"
Xiu Ying enters the room with two others. A middle aged lady enters the room furiously, followed by an older man.
Yuan Zi Yan? What's with the name similarities?
I swear I have used these names for my novel before. In fact, I chose that name specifically for the villainess in my story.
The beautiful lady from earlier, who I assume is my younger sister, backs up from the scene. After putting on a melancholic expression, she rests besides Xiu Ying.
"You—" the madam points at me as she gets closer, hesitating to speak. She puts her hand over her heart, as if she is running out of breath.
I point to myself with my mouth wide open, "Uh.. me?"
"How dare you try to burn down Xi Ning's room? It is unfortunate that your mother passed away and that your father wedded me, but you did not have to take such extreme act!" She raises her hands to hit me. And a quick second pasts before I feel a sting on my right cheek. The man grabs her arm after she does so.
"Enough!" He yells and the whole room goes silent.
My heart skips a beat. My dad had whup me for pinching another kid's cheeks before, but I had never been hit by a woman.
Old man, why didn't you grab her hand before she hit me!
..is what I want to say.
"Yan'er, you can be upset with father but you cannot put the blame on others. Should you attempt to hurt Ning'er again or cause any trouble, the punishment will be worse next time."
The Madam gave me a death glare before scoffing and leaving the room. Yuan Zi Yan's father trails behind her. Xi Ning stays behind and gives me a porcelain bottle of medicine. "Elder sister, your face now has a mark. Here, use this. It will help you," she whispers before following her parents.
How nice of her. If only her mother is—
Xiu Ying quickly comes to me, trembling. "E-Elder Miss.. do you need any assistance?"
I scan her body language; she is like a little bunny who is intimidated by a predator. I can't help but chuckle, which cause her to tremble even more. I say, "Xiu Ying, did I maltreat you before?"
Xiu Ying quickly bows down and kneels before me, "Servant does not think elder Miss has maltreat me. I have deserve everything!"
Oh lord.. If I have not mistaken, I have guessed right.
First, all of the names match. Xiu Ying, Yuan Xi Ning, and Yuan Zi Yan are all names I have included in my novel. Xiu Ying is the servant of Yuan Zi Yan, who often abuses Xiu Ying physically when she is emotionally unstable.
In my novel, "A Thousand Canola Blossoms," Yuan Xi Ning is the protagonist and female lead of the story. A few days after the Mid-Autumn Festival, she fell in a lake and drowned. That was how a 21st century character was able to transmigrate into her.
Xi Ning is the epitome of femininity and beauty, so when her mother marries my father, I grew— I mean Yuan Zi Yan grew jealous. Yuan Zi Yan had a great zeal to get rid of Yuan Xi Ning no matter what it takes.
On the fated day of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Yuan Xi Ning will encounter the Prince Regent, who will unexpectedly save her from a death trap. All the evidences show that Yuan Zi Yan is the culprit. When she still didn't admit to the plot though, she was declared by the emperor to be sentenced to death. Even to her death, Yuan Zi Yan never confessed her so-called "crime."
Cliché, I know. Phew, that was a long thought.
"Stand up, Xiu Ying," I chuckle as I gently pick her up and pat her on her head.How adorable."We may have had a rough relationship before, but I wish for us to become peaceful with each other from now on."
Xiu Ying's eyes reflect fragility; she couldn't believe what she is hearing. "Y-Yes Elder Miss," she chokes out a tilted smile.
I sigh.
What will I do now, Good
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HomeThe Tale of A Villainess Ch 4: Embroidered Uniform Guard, A Plan
CH 4: EMBROIDERED UNIFORM GUARD, A PLAN
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It has been about a week ever since I, Yan Zi, become Zi Yan.
What kind of rip off is that?!
I tap my fingers against the mahogany table set and drink some hot tea. How can I return back to the present? Maybe if I fall in a deep sleep again?
I scratch my head in frustration.How can I do that without dying?!
"Elder Miss, what are you thinking about?" questions Xiu Ying curiously. It seems I have earned her trust. Finally, my efforts have blossomed into wonderful results.Yes!
"Say.. Xiu Ying, what if I told you I am from another world? Would you believe me?"
Xiu Ying tilts her head in confusion. "Another world? Xiu Ying does not understand what you mean, Elder Miss."
I sigh despairingly, "Of course you don't."
"Xiu Ning, I have been staying in here for the past week. I hear it is bustling and lively in the town. Shall we head out?"
"Miss, the Master Yuan warns last time-"
I take her by the shoulder before she can continue. "I'll tell the other maids to watch out for us. Plus.." I wiggle my brows, "We can dress as males!"
Like they always do in the novels and shows, ya know!
By the time we enter the town, people of all kinds pass us by. There is a great amount of stands that promotes the sale of products, varying from food to clothings. This is exactly like what I had depicted in my novel! While Xiu Ying and I observe the different stands and purchase our goods, I hear a loud voice.
"Stop right there!"
The sound of horses stomping the ground approaches my ears. Am I mishearing things?
I twirl around and see a group of people heading towards the road. The citizens were all paving way for the trouble. A few distances ahead, I see a child with a tanghulu alone.
Are you kidding me?! A kid who is in need of help?
I was the one who wrote the story but I don't even know where this is heading now that I am in it.
Who cares! That kid needs a superwoman. Here I come, lad!
I ran towards the child, hearing Xiu Ying yell my name behind me. I snatch the kid and crash onto the pavement, shielding the pain with my shoulder.
"Are you alright, child?" I unfold my arms and release the child. I get up and pat the dirt off the kid's shoulders. With a smile, I am hoping—
He's crying?!
"My tanghulu!" He cries aloud, "WAH!"
Oh, it's normal. A kid falls and he would cry, right-
He harshly throws a piece of the fruit at my forehead.
Uh...
OW?!
"Kid, you need to be grateful for my help. I dirtied my clothes for you!"
He wipes his tears and looks at something behind me, "I'm sorry, sir! He ruined the plan!"
Who? What plan?
I twirl around again to see who's behind me but hit something. Using my hands, I grab the surface. Something soft? On hindsight, I see.. Embroidered uniform? A sword on the side?
Glancing up, I see a face.
Good Heavens.
He is the embodiment of masculinity but somehow innately possess soft features. His sharp and assertive expression accentuates his attractiveness.
"Stared enough?"
I wipe the drool off my face, "Ahem.. Did I do something wrong?" I say in my manliest voice possible, trailing behind him.
"Yes. Brocade-clad Guard Co-Commander, Xu Kai," he presents his engraved wooden amulet, carved with words I can barely read. "I can arrest you for disruption of peace if you don't move out of the way," he speak emotionlessly.
"A-Arrest me for disruption of peace! I only attempted to save a child!"
Oh, an imperial military guard?
They are, essentially, secret military polices and elite bodyguards of the dynasty. They are the imperial military body who works for the Ming Dynasty, who is currently Emperor Jia Jing. Their ultimate duties are to sniff out corruption and plots against the emperor.
What are they doing out here? I don't remember writing about them.
Another man rushes next to the man, known as Xu Kai. "Sir, the culprit has been captured."
Xu Kai signals for the guard to give some taels to the child, who immediately stops crying. He sticks out his tongue at me and runs away.
That little brat!
"Take the culprit to the cell and interrogate his connections with the harbor. If not, torture." Both of them proceeds ahead, leaving me standing alone. I have never felt so disrespected other than that little boy who threw a piece of tanghulu (candied fruits) at me.
"Elder Miss!" chants Xiu Ying, who approaches me sweating and wiping her forehead. "Everyone scattered everywhere after the guards left. I tried looking for you but the crowds were all over the place. I apologize for my late arrival."
I lean on her, smiling. "Don't sweat about it. Plus, I am not your Elder Miss today, okay? Let's head somewhere else, shall
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HomeThe Tale of A Villainess Ch 5: Missing Home, Him
CH 5: MISSING HOME, HIM
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Initially, everything was filled with excitement and curiosity. As time progresses, homesickness struck me. I wanted to return home and to my normal lifestyle.
This life isn't mine.
For the next two weeks, I went to the #1 restaurant of the town and drank. I drank and drank their famous Red Daughter Wine.
I reminisce back to what I saw after I met the imperial military guards. After my encounter with them, my eyes laid on a young lady, who happily
held onto the arms of her mother. They wander around the streets together, purchasing their products.
I thought back to my mother and my father. I wonder how they're doing.
Are they missing me? Have they regret not sending me more money?
Oh, I'm such a bum.
"Miss, you should stop drinking. Your face is flush red!"
I sniff, wiping my eyes. "Mom.. dad.. I want to go home. I don't like this place."
Sure, I might have adequate food and supplies now.. but the missing components are emotional and social support.
Humans are such greedy creatures, aren't they?
"Miss," Xiu Ying gives up trying to convince me. She wipes the tears from my cheeks with a handkerchief.
"Xiu Ying, I just want everything to go back to normal. I want to write again, to see my parents," I sigh heavily. Under my breath, I reek of alcohol. "Do you understand?"
Xiu Ying begins to frown, "Elder Miss, Xiu Ying hates to see you like this. Should I go bring you food rather than wine?"
I shake my head and laugh at myself, "No, no, no. Why don't you bring me a pretty boy, haha!"
She stares at me with her eyes wide open, "Miss.. where do I find a pretty boy?"
I began to blurt out nonsense again, "Xiu Ying.. don't look at me like that. Here, eat some food!" I pick some potatoes from the table of food and lift it up to her mouth. She takes a bite.
The image of the embroidered uniform guard suddenly appears on my mind.
Twenty seven years. And I have been single since birth. Heavens, I haven't even found my fated partner yet and you want to play this game with me?
"I am not satisfied!" I scream across the room, pointing at the ceiling, ultimately the sky.
Suddenly, a knock comes at the door. When Xiu Ying opens the door, it was the waiter who carried the foods to us. "Customers, please keep it down. The customers beside you are complaining about the noise level." Xiu Ying apologizes and concurs to the request. I heard what he said, but Xiu Ying still informs me anyways.
Normally, I would obey the request. But you know what?!
I have crappy parents in this world. I am treated as if I'm invisible in the household. People always make derogatory comments about me. I'm sick of this.
"Cheers to my pitiful self!" I yell and lift up a glass of wine again, giggling afterwards.
Xiu Ying expresses a bitter expression and looks around to see if there's any reaction to my loud voice.
A loud bang occurred at the door!
"We have warned you to keep it down!" Someone enters the room. It is a male; however, his face is blurry. I force myself up and walk towards him.
"What gives you the right to shush me?" I stutter my way out the sentence.
"Our Sir is having a conference next door. Your cacophonous noises are affecting the conversation."
I scoff, "Who wants to start a fight with me?"
Brushing past the man, I walk out my room and open the door to the room on my right. "You?!" I point to the couple. A lady is sitting on a man's lap and they gasp in shock. "Wrong room!" I immediately close the door and stumble across to the room on the left.
The man blocks my entrance, "How dare you try to disrupt-"
Xiu Ying takes me by the hand and try to pull me away from the door. "Miss, I think it's time for us to-"
I smacked them both off and force the door to open.
The image is clear. The first face my puny eyes see: the masculine yet beautiful face I drooled over before. "You!" I point at him, attempting to cross over to the room.
Unfortunately, I forget to lift my feet up the doorway, accidentally tripping and falling down. And then the world goes blank again and I daze out, like
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HomeThe Tale of A Villainess Ch 6: My Fate, Write A Story
CH 6: MY FATE, WRITE A STORY
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I felt myself being pressed against someone else's back.
A sudden urge to vomit but I held it in.
One step. Two step. I chuckle.
I feel myself slipping down but being pushed up again.
I open eyes, immediately overwhelm by an enormous headache.
"Miss, are you feeling better now?" Xiu Ying take the wet and cold cloth away from my head. She passes me a hot cup of tea.
I accept the tea, pushing myself up from the bed. Trying my best to harness my memories, I can't seem to recall anything. "Ugh.. Did you bring me back to the manor, Xiu Ying?"
My neck and shoulders are as sore as an old granny's back. I could only remember drinking the Red Daughter Wine from yesterday. What else did I do that exhausted me this much?
"About that.." Xiu Ying hesitates to speak, "One of the female embroidered uniform guards dragged— I mean brought you home. The commander informed Master and Madam Yuan about your presence in the restaurant. They weren't very happy upon hearing you snuck out as a male and seeing you drunk."
I smack my forehead, "He what?!"
That soulless bastard! He knew I was a female this whole time?
His tattletale is the cornerstone of my death!
I bite down on my bottom lip, "What will I do now? They'll punish me for sure!" I get up, pacing back and forth. Where are you, technology, now that I am in a predicament? I cry silently inside.
Maybe I can pretend to be sick?
I shake my head. No, no, no. What if they invite the doctor to check me out, only to expose my lie?
I groan, "I guess I can only face my fate."
"I had told you to not cause any trouble. And yet you don't listen! Look what you have done now. The Brocade-clad commander's son, Xu Kai, has to tell his guard to carry you into the Manor. You-You lose the honor of the Yuan family!" He sat in the chair, shaking his head in denial.
Madam Yuan smirks; she turns around and pats Xi Ning's hands. Xi Ning expresses her concern to me through her eyes.
I laugh awkwardly, "Father.." I saunter behind him, massaging his back. "Don't get mad. Don't stress too much. It will force your breath to quicken and your blood pressure to rise. Look, I'll write a letter to him expressing my fault."
Master Yuan slaps my hands off his shoulders, "I don't care. Scrub his clothes or beg him for pardon, but you need to obtain his forgiveness for your insolent behavior. Xu Kai is not someone to mess with."
Madam Yuan interrupts, "And you will be restricted from going out for a month. Your diet until then will be strict as well. Had you caused more ruckus, we could've locked you up in the woodshed. So be grateful."
"Mother!" Xi Ning says in horror; she disagrees with the statement. "You cannot do that!"
My jaw drops, "What?!"
I guess that is better than being locked up in the woodshed..
What will I do in a month?
By the time I return to my room, an ingenious idea pops up in my mind. If I cannot exit the manor, I can use my craftiness within the manor.
How about I write a story? I have no idea how to write in ancient Chinese, however.
Perhaps I can invite a writer to assist me in writing it. Aha!
I chuckle silently and hold up a piece of white paper. Nodding with enthusiasm, I tell Xiu Ying, "Quick, Xiu Ying! Request the presence of a pedant."
And so came the birth of a new story namedFifty Shades of the Embroidered Uniform.
Of course, it is based off a classic hit from America in the 21st
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HomeThe Tale of A Villainess Ch 7: Me And Him, Impossible
CH 7: ME AND HIM, IMPOSSIBLE
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"Ah, yes," I nod to his statement. "Do make him grab her by the hand and stare at her intensely, will you? He'll mutter 'I love you. I love your smile. I love your mouth that opens wide like that of a fool.' Make sure to depict the way his eyes glimmer with lust."
"This.." the pedant sigh briefly before continuing. "Yes, Elder Miss."
Frankly, I don't pay him enough for this. This was probably not what he expected.
"What else would you like me to include in chapter fourty seven?"
"Insert a scene where he embraces her, informing her that 'I have never accepted anyone else's feelings and don't intend to anytime. I, Chen Lian Mo, will only have eyes for you," I snicker in joy.
"Is this after the misfortunate event?"
I nod and tap my chin, "It would only be fair to make it after the danger, so yes. Oh, oh! And have him stroke her cheeks and kiss her forehead during her sleep."
"This.. Elder Miss.. It is improper for men and women to touch each other prior to marriage. Propriety should be kept!"
"That," I announce to the pedant, "Sir, is where you are incorrect. Mencius has once said, 'He who would not so rescue the drowning woman is a wolf. To rescue her with the hand is a peculiar exigency, no?'"
"Such principle is true; however, how would drowning relate to the following scenario?" He ponders with curiosity, his eyes bulging in wonder.
"Of course it is relative! For she is drowning!" I utter in disbelief of his disposition, "She is drowning in love!"
The pedant complies, "If the Elder Miss says so, I concur."
"Sister!"
I detect where the sound come from. It's Xi Ning, who holds a plate of desserts in her hand. "I have made some guihuagao for mother. I thought I would bring you some as well." She lays the plate on the resting table a few feet away.
"That's very considerate of you, Ning'er."
How wonderful of the female lead. I didn't create her intangible traits for nothing.
"Look here, I am completing my second novel," I tell her as I pick a guihuagao from her plate and munch on it.
"Second? Have you already completed the first one?"
Oops! I forgot that I created my first novel in the present.
"Forgive me. I meant to say first novel," I blurt out nervously. Good lord!
"But sister, I have questioned why you decided to create your own novel. You despise the arts quite a while ago."
"Ah, you see, even you said 'quite a while ago.' I have recently taken a liking in writing. Through cultural diffusion, I have been inspired by the foreigner's special taste in books. Now! I will develop one of my own."
"Really?" She gasps in shock, "A foreigner's tale? Please tell Ning'er about it!"
I scratch my head, "Er..."
The male lead has a strange fetish, where he enjoys inflicting pain on others. The female lead falls for his disputable traits anyways. The relationship was preposterous to begin with!
I can't possibly tell her about the fact that I based it on a quite provocative and voluptuous book!
"You see," I try to create a purified version of the book. "It's about a man who has a strange habit of.." I force myself to think hard, "..loving women too much he may hurt them. He hides it from others but one day, when his significant other discovers it, he has no choice but to tell her. I-Instead of leaving him, she accepts him for his true self. In the end, he changes his habit for the best."
Xi Ning claps her hands in joy, "Such happy ending!"
She takes a seat around the resting table, "Have you had a purpose of centralizing the story around a young maiden and an imperial military soldier?"
"Mm.." I contemplate, "Not really. I just feel like it. Why?" I munch on another guihuagao.So tasty!I pour some tea into a porcelain cup and drink it.
"Could it be, you favor the son of the Brocade-Clad Commander, he who brought you home?" She chuckles, taking a glimpse at me for my response.
I spat out my tea, "No way! Me and him, impossible! He created a mess and made me deal with it. If anything, I would deem him as an enemy."
"He is so handsome and talented, would you not think so?"
I cough, "Of course he is, but his attitude isn't.
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HomeThe Tale of A Villainess Ch 8: Completion of Book, How Dull
CH 8: COMPLETION OF BOOK, HOW DULL
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I snatch the final booklet off the pedant's hand, "Finally!" I smile happily to the pedant, who expresses his sense of relief with a dutiful nod. "Finished product!"
I want to thank Xiu Ying, who managed to help me convince Yuan Zi Yan's parents that inviting a pedant to "teach me" will somehow serve as a torturous method for me.
I would like to give a round of applause to Xi Ning, who always provide treats for me. I want to thank the pedant for keeping up with my bull crap and outrageous requests.
Last but not least, I want to thank my parents for mating and allowing this clutter of cells to develop into a fully capable human being!
Muah!
I kiss the booklet and dance together with the pedant in harmony. Wait—why is he dancing too?
"I am so glad this is over, Elder Miss. That was one of the most difficult pieces I've put together."
I nod, "Thank you. This will blossom into great success."
"Great success? Don't tell me you're actually going to publish this booklet?"
I had my mouth wide open, "Of course I will! Why do you think I had you write it? No worries, I won't leave a name. It will be anonymous. I will disperse copies of it across the town for free. The elocutionists will do their job."
The pedant sighs, "This old fellow prays that yamen (government offices) won't arrest me with the introduction of this book. I think it's perhaps the time to move to Yangzhou anyways."
"What! Is it that bad that you will have to move away?"
"Yes, Elder Miss. Now if you'll excuse me." He took his things and scurry away.
I scratch my head, "The Ming Dynasty must have had controversial texts. I don't think mine is that controversial, is it?" I shake the thoughts off, "I'll have to find a way in which they cannot track it was the Yuan household who dispersed the tale."
"Kya, look! It's the imperial military guards!" A young maiden cheers as she stares at the guards, who ride their horses and pass by the stands.
A young guard by the name of Wu Lan Jun glances around the town, uncomfortable to the stares of the females. His co-commander Xu Kai, questions the commotions. "Did something occur?"
"No idea, Sir. I can ask for you," Wu Lan Jun swerves his horse and asks a young lady about the ruckus.
"Ah, sir. Haven't you heard? Someone dispersed a booklet about the romance between a brocade-clad commander and a daughter from an affluent family. Since most of us can't read, we relied on the city's elocutionist. Now, the tale is spreading throughout the city. It's a must-read!"
"I see," Wu Lan Jun laughs nervously, "Do you perhaps know the author?"
The lady shakes her head, "No one knows who wrote the book itself. It is so popular now that none of us know where it really began."
They conversed quite a bit about the context of the booklet. Soon, the conversation ends. After thanking the lady, Wu Lan Jun returns to the co-commander and informs him about what the lady told him.
"What's even more surprising is the fact that the brocade-clad guard's name is Kai Xu. Co-commander, that is quite close to your-"
Xu Kai coldly glances at Wu Lan Jun, causing him to shut his mouth.
"Ahah.." Wu Lan Jun laughs it off, "I mean it's totally different from your name, Sir."
"Romance between a brocade-clad guard and a daughter from an affluent family, huh? Send men to investigate the author." Co-commander Xu Kai resumes to ride the armored horse through the streets.
"How dull.
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CH 9: TAKE ME TO AN APOTHECARY, ANY COST
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This marks a whole month since I have been stuck here. Sure, writing again has lift some weights off my shoulders but life is not the same. I forgot my privileges in the 21st century: when I can go out to wherever I want, where I can see my parents whenever I want.
I slowly drift back again into pessimistic thoughts.
Ah, I feel my eyes water again.
Quickly wiping the tears off my face, I shake my head and pat my face.
I need to keep surviving so that I can find a way to get back home.Yan Zi, fighting!
The suspense is riveting. In several months, the Mid-Autumn festival will be held. The emperor would hold an annual event, inviting officials and bureaucracy members who serve under him, as well as their family. Performance and food would accompany everyone; all should go well right?
Not for Yuan Zi Yan. That is the time she will be accused of attempted murder of her sister, Yuan Xi Ning. But the thing is, I am now her.
That means, I will survive as long as I don't cause any scenes. But this is a novel and I am the villainess. Something must happen to me. Something bad and innately inevitable.
I sigh in distress. My life is going to take a drastic turn, I can already tell.
"Xiu Ying," I project through the room.
Within milliseconds, she enters the room upon my call. "Yes, Elder Miss!"
Perhaps I can continue learning about herbs. That is alright, I presume. There's peace in herbs, right?
Or... Maybe I can see if there's an ancient Chinese herb that will make me sleep for eternity. That might be my only option to return home.
I doubt it.. but I am willing to take any chances.
"Take me to an apothecary, or what you guys call an herbalist. I would like to take some lessons."
My mouth widens as I am in complete disbelief, "You are Li Shizhen?" I eye him up and down. He truly does not resemble a scholar with his disheveled appearance and foolish expressions. I cannot take him seriously.
He? Of all people,hewill soon become the legendary pharmacologist in the history of the China? He who wrote the revered textBencao Gangmu,the Great Compendium of Herbs?
I shake my head. I cannot judge a book by its cover. He looks quite young at the moment, eighteen or nineteen. Perhaps he made the remarkable achievements after his twenties or thirties.
"That's my name. Have you come here to retrieve some herbs?"
Xiu Ying shakes her head, "No. Our Miss came to study herbs. Won't you be her guide?"
Li Shi Zhen stares at me with a wondrous smile, "Miss, you would like to learn about herbs?" His grin hints a mockery.
His ignorance ignites a powder keg of emotions within me. A stomach of anger rises and I comment, "Should a woman not be able to do what a man does?"
Standing in front of the wooden medical counter, I examine the spacious drawers that lay in front of me. The large collection comprises of mini drawers with labels on each, indicating the amount of herbs available as well as which type is cramped inside of these drawers.
"That is not what I mean," he presumes to look at the requested formulas from his patients. "It's just uncommon for a lady like you to have such desire," he murmurs before opening various drawers to deliberately pick out herbs.
"Well then, if you won't accept my request to be a disciple, then I will be your customer. Do you have any formulas that can put me to sleep for eternity?"
Xiu Ning gasps in shock, "Elder Miss!" I assure and calm her with a smile.
His eyes narrow into suspicious glare as he turns to face me, "What if I do but I am not willing to sell it?"
"I'll pay any costs!" I add, as if Master and Madam Yuan will really agree to my request for silver. Xiu Ying glances at me with doubt.
He shakes his head, "No. I said I won't sell it. Now if you'll excuse me, Miss. If you're not going to purchase or request a formula, I will continue my assignments here," he taps on the bundle of papers on the wooden counter. His fingers dance over the wooden abacus Chinese calculator.
I sigh and give up.
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CH 10. HYDRANGEA, A NEW CASE
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I was about to leave until I see a hydrangea on the corner of my eyes. It is lying within a small box next to his vintage arithmetic calculator.
"No way. Hydrangeas!" I point to the box in surprise.
One of my top favorite flowers when I was studying botany. I didn't know they discovered hydrangeas during this era.
He swiftly turns his head to me and say, "You know the identification of these flowers?"
I nod, "Its botanical name is Viburnum Macrocephalum. I presume you found them as rounded, vase-shaped shrubs. Deciduous in winter and evergreen otherwise. The color of the hydrangeas are influenced by the soil pH. I see you have a vibrant pink hydrangea there, which indicates a high pH, or alkaline soil." I think to myself again, "Alkaline substances tend to have pH up to 14, very basic."
Woo hoo! The botanical research and pH studies on plant germination have come to use.
He looks at me with his eyes open, blinking cluelessly. "Well," he coughs, "You are very knowledgeable about this plant. We have just discovered it near the plantations." He indulges in a deep thought before saying, "How about this," he opens the wooden box and exposes the flower to me.
He offers, "If you help me solve a case, I will reward you with the herb you wish for."
My face blossom into a smile as I quickly nod. "Yes, what case?"
Before he was about to speak, his eyes suddenly trace behind me, to the pharmacy's entrance. "Sir Xu?"
Sir Xu?
Oh no, is it who I think it is?
I turn around to see the figure and I was right. Our eyes met for a second until he rests his gaze to Li ShiZhen.
Brocade-clad guard Co-Commander, Xu Kai.
Of course it's him. Darn my fate as a villain!
"Did you identify the plant yet, Scholar Li?" He saunters a few feet towards the counter, to my right. Dressed in his embroidered uniform again, I assume he is under another task.
"Scholar Li?" I ask Li ShiZhen curiously, "Did you pass the civil service exam?"
He scratches his head and laughs nervously, "I failed three times. The title masks my failure as a student. That's not the point though." He faces Xu Kai again, "I did not. This Miss has a clue, to my chagrin."
Xu Kai glances at me, "You?" He seems conflicted and doubtful of my abilities.
I gulp down and nod. "Yes, me."
He frowns and his brows furrow, "She cannot."
I open my mouth in shame of his comment, "I can!"
Xu Kai sighs and gives me an ice cold gaze. It would have sent shivers down someone's spine, "This mission is far too dangerous for Miss Yuan to attend to, let alone get involved in. Should Master Yuan deem fault, the blame will be on me."
I shake my head, "You guys need me. I am the only one who is knowledgeable of this plant; if I am involved, you can efficiently and conveniently solve this crime. And finally, my family is least concerned with my life, if I should say."
His lips twitch into an unsatisfied frown. I can observe that he is facing a dilemma due to his facial expressions. "Fine. Should anything happen to you, don't cry on the way to your Manor."
I grin widely, "Thank you, thank you!"
My only savior to return home!
I still have a string of hope; I am so glad.
The next few days, they introduce and familiarize me with the confidential case.
"Recently, there has been anonymous imports and exports of items into the Hubei province. Although the exchange of goods proceeds, the rural villages seem to suffer more than they gain," explains Li ShiZhen in the table. We are all sitting down and engaging in a conversation within the pharmaceutical store.
May the adventure and case solving begin!