Higher Level Wife

by Usui Takumii

not mine, Kitchennovel. Waiting for the translater to update.

8. 71 to 80

"I heard that the Emperor had you stay back for a banquet once more?" Old Madam Jin looked lovingly at this grandson who had brought so much pride and glory to the family. "Why have you returned so soon?"

Jin Fengju lowered his cup and smiled, "There was really nothing much, the Emperor merely wished to have myself and brother-in-law accompany an elder for a meal. During the dinner, he praised Brother-in-law several times, even saying that, as today is the Mid-Autumn Festival and a day for family reunions, he permitted me and Brother-in-law to return early. After the banquet, Brother-in-law tried to drag me to his palace and I had to remind him that he still had to prepare himself to enter the imperial palace in the evening, and finally managed to return. Otherwise, how could I be here so early? If I had gone to his palace, I might have only returned when the moon rises."

He smiled at the table of cakes and snacks in front of Old Madam Jin. "Isn't this Osmanthus Cake? It looks quite fragrant." Then, he picked up a piece and stuffed it into his mouth.

"Your wife brought them from Night Breeze Pavilion. I had to send Luo Cui over to urge her before getting a single plate back," Old Madam Jin said with a laugh.

Jin Fengju laughed in return, "Looks like Sister Luo Cui doesn't know her well and only asked for one plate. I have already asked her to make some Osmanthus Cakes just for Old Ancestor. If you had asked for more, she would not refuse."

When he was done speaking, Jiang Wanying suddenly came forward to say with a smile, "What is this good thing you speak of? For Lord Husband to eat so happily when you have just returned from an imperial banquet? Goodness, it is as though Lord Husband had rushed back from the borders, half-starved from the lack of good food and all too happy to see real food being served. Osmanthus Cakes are something that I and other little sisters have in our courtyard. This morning, I even sent out two plates to Old Ancestor and Elder Madam. If you like them so much, I can feed you a whole plate of it."

Jin Fengju smiled, "Each person makes it to their own taste. Naturally, the ones in our courtyard are good. I see that Old Ancestor has two Osmanthus trees in your backyard. The flowers here should make the most excellent cakes…"

Before he could finish speaking, Old Madam Jin spat and laughingly scolded him, "I have only eaten a bit of your cake and you dare have thoughts for my two Osmanthus trees? The flowers have just bloomed. No one is allowed to pick them. They shall stay in the trees until they fall to the ground naturally. I do not abide unsightly bald spots in my trees."

Jin Fengju said, "You certainly know how to calculate. You dislike seeing bald spots on your trees but still wish us to pick our trees bald to make cakes and honour you. Old Ancestor, you're getting more calculative with your years."

Everyone laughed. [1]

Old Madam Jin pretended to be angry and snapped, "Why? Is that not allowed? Are you feeling sore from honouring me with a few cakes?"

As the atmosphere grew livelier, a servant girl from the outside announced, "Second Old Master is here."

When the announcement was made, many of the women in the room stood up and made their way to the inner rooms. However, Madam Jiang, Jiang Wanying and those directly related to the family did not leave.

After a while, Jin Shi came in.

He was a spirited-looking older man who must have been quite handsome in his youth. Fu Qiuning cast a secret glance over him and thought: No wonder Jin Fengju is so good-looking. Looks like this family has good genes.

[1] When Jin Shi spotted Jin Fengju, he said, "Here I was wondering why you did not come and assist me in the front yard. Looks like you have been hiding here again." He turned to Old Madam, "Prince Rong's Palace has sent gifts over. I heard that this time, Prince Rong had personally accompanied the princess to choose the presents. This son dare not be careless and personally led the steward here. This is the list of gifts. Mother, please have a look. The steward is still outside, awaiting orders."

Old Madam Jin glanced over at Jin Fengju [1], "Still need me to look? Fengju, read it to me."

With that, she leaned back in her chair as the list was read out. To her secret shock, the value of the items on the list was more than twice the value of the items presented during the Dragon Boat Festival. Moreover, Prince Rong had personally chosen them. This was a clear indication of great favour, therefore, the marquisate dared not be careless.

Fu Qiuning listened from her corner, her eyes on Jin Fengju. She thought back to what Jin Ming had said and knew that Prince Rong must have been relying on his brother-in-law more and more. No wonder the Old Madam and Jin Shi's eyes were all upon Jin Fengju's person. They knew that these heavy gifts were chosen due to Jin Fengju. It was just… from what Jin Ming had said, these days, Prince Rong appeared to be very pleased with himself and from these actions, might have forgotten himself a little?

Once the list was read, Old Madam Jin personally ordered someone to serve tea to Prince Rong's steward. After inquiring into the princess and her daughters, she ordered people to generously reward this steward and sent him off with great fanfare. Then, she turned to Jin Fengju and said, "Enough, go with your Second Uncle and assist him. Do not worry about us. After dinner, we shall go and enjoy some music and dancing."

Jin Fengju accepted the suggestion and left.

Madam Jiang turned to Jiang Wanying, "Are the opera troupes and musical groups ready? We had better not disappoint the Old Madam."

Jiang Wanying smiled, "It has long been prepared. Elder Madam, please be at ease."

Just then, the door curtain lifted and the children filed in. Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao were at the back. A fierce light flashed through her eyes until Jiang Wanying noted Jin Zhenyi's gleeful expression. She smiled to herself and thought: Looks like this Yi boy has done exactly as his vulgar mother had instructed him, ah. Only, why have those cheap bastards not done anything? Are they really as dull as mud balls? No, that cannot be the case. Could it be that Fu woman had taught them something? Has she seen through my schemes? How can that be? Even Lord Husband has no idea, therefore, how could she know? Well, that's fine. If the fire is not strong enough, I just have to fan it a little more.

After a lively dinner, the people in the room neatened their clothes, put on brocade cloaks and followed after Old Madam Jin to the Autumn Moon Pavilion. The Autumn Moon Pavilion had been designed to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival. From there, one could view the moon as it slowly rose from behind the mountains. Below were planted all kinds of flowering trees and various chrysanthemums. When the breeze blew, a lovely fragrance floated to the viewers. It was truly a magnificent place to view the moon.

It was the first time Fu Qiuning entered Health & Longevity Court's backyard, and the first time she climbed up the Autumn Moon Pavilion. Unlike other pavilions, this one was half-built into a hill with a naturally raised seating position. It covered a fairly large area overlooking a stage where songs, dances and operas were performed. There were open seats and walled-in rooms in the pavilion.

As the sky darkened, the moon had not yet risen, but the pavilion and the stage were bright as day thanks to the hundreds of lanterns hung around the place. Old Madam turned to Madam Jiang, "Since the moon has yet to rise, let us enjoy a few operas first. Also, I like Missus Zhu's singing very much and have invited her to sing a few songs for us."

Madam Jiang nodded agreeably.

This would be Fu Qiuning's first time hearing a performance in this era. She was curious about what kind of songs would be sung. In the end, as she had expected, most of the performance consisted of the Kunqu Opera. It was likely that Beijing Opera did not exist yet. As for Yue or Huangmei Opera, the seeds of it may have started in the Jiangnan area, but should not have matured yet.

The songs being sung on stage were the Kunqu singing that had not existed in Fu Qiuning's time. She listened intently, fascinated to discover this unexpected facet of opera when Jin Changjiao pouted and exclaimed, "What's this, ah? It's all yiyi yaya sounds and not nice at all. It takes them so long just to sing one word, mother's singing is so much nicer."

Fu Qiuning nearly jumped out of her skin.

Jin Fengju was seated between Madam Jiang and the Old Madam, while she was right next to Madam Jiang as per her status. Jiang Wanying, the secondary wife was seated just on her other side. She shifted uneasily, Fu Qiuning had not expected her daughter to utter such a deadly sentence. If any one of these terrible people heard her and started asking questions, who knows what would come of it?

Luckily, Jin Fengju did not seem to have heard Jin Changjiao. He looked as though he was listening intently to the opera. Looks like he enjoyed these kinds of entertainment very much. Fu Qiuning had just breathed a sigh of relief when Jiang Wanying laughed softly and said, "What's this? To think that Elder Sister could also sing opera? From what Jiao girl said, Elder Sister's skill appears to be quite capable too." Her voice was neither carrying nor soft, just enough for the people around them to hear.

In a flash, all eyes turned toward Fu Qiuning. Fu Qiuning looked down awkwardly, if there was a crack in the ground, she would have squirmed inside to hide from their eyes. Right then, Jin Changjiao seemed to have understood that she had caused trouble and quickly lowered her head, not daring to say anything else.

"Little Sister jokes, how could I? When the children were much younger and could not sleep, I sometimes hum some little songs to help them sleep. Even so, I have no idea what I had been singing then. Unexpectedly, they remember it to this day." While she privately wailed and cried in her heart, Fu Qiuning was still able to maintain a calm tone. In this way, she could be said to match Jin Fengju in temperament.

"Surely there's no need for Elder Sister to humble yourself and hide your talent? If you are capable, then you should sing a song to liven up the atmosphere, hmm? Old Madam happens to love operas. Of the 24 Filial Exemplars [2], one of them is 'Dressed up to Amuse His Parents', could it be that Elder Sister is unwilling to do this much? Are your claims of filial piety towards the Old Ancestor false?" Jiang Wanying continued to press on. She had finally caught the opportunity to humiliate Fu Qiuning and let others despise her. How could she let it go?

"It cannot be considered filial piety as I am truly not good at it. I dare not contaminate the ears of Old Ancestor with my poor skills." Fu Qiuning's hands had clenched into fists under the table as she tried to stay calm and indifferent. She realised that it was crucial for her to remain calm at all costs right now.

"Surely there's no need for Elder Sister to be so rigid? Even if you cannot sing well, you can still amuse the Old Ancestor…" Jiang Wanying still wanted to force her out, but just then, Jin Fengju said, "Enough, Qiuning is the daughter of Prince Zhenjiang, where would she pick up performance arts? Wanying, don't force her anymore."

If he had not said anything, it would have still been fine. However, the moment he spoke, hatred bubbled within Jiang Wanying. Fu Qiuning also knew this but what had struck her even more was that only Jin Fengju had stepped forward to help her out.

The Old Madam had remained motionless in her chair and never even look her way, as though she was fully absorbed by the drama happening on the stage. There was no way this old vixen had not noticed the drama happening right next to her. [1] All this time, Fu Qiuning had never lowered her guard against this Old Madam. She had her suspicions about this old woman's previous actions, but now she was certain.

The Old Madam is scheming something.

"She is a mere shu-born daughter, so why shouldn't she learn the performing arts?" Xu'shi snorted coldly.

Jin Fengju turned a wintry gaze on her and spoke in a cool voice, "Is that so? Has your third younger sister studied opera in the marquisate? Shall we invite her to sing for us? Or, could it be that she is only allowed to sing for her in-laws? If that's the case, the next time I visit Lord Jia's residence, I should have a good listen."

Concubine Xu's face turned red, she mumbled, "Naturally, my sister cannot sing. I thought… thought that Madam had lived in the village before and might have learned some performing arts there. If Lord Husband does not wish to listen, then we should leave it be." She put on a pathetic face as she carefully studied Jin Fengju's expression.

Jin Fengju snorted, but did not make things too difficult for her. The Old Madam glanced at her grandson's face as more and more plans brewed in her heart. She privately laughed: Fengju, ah, Fenju. Looks like Fu'shi has a much higher position on your heart than what your old grandma had expected. I just wanted to see when you would open your mouth to defend her, but I never expect it to happen so soon.

This is very good, although a good show had been delayed. From the way Jiao girl spoke up, I expect that this Fu'shi really does have some excellent singing skills, ah. What a pity, what a pity… No, I must have her sing for me. Naturally, it would not be a public venue like this, otherwise, it would really make her lose her status.

"It's all the same few operas over and over again, I do believe our ears will have rotted off with boredom. Let's have some singing and dancing now." Since her son had already stood up for Fu Qiuning, Madam Jiang thought that it would not be good for her to say anything against it. Therefore, she lightly said something to change the subject. Let us close this episode of the drama for now.

The tables and chairs on the stage were removed. Not long after that, the sound of strings and flutes arose. From both sides of the stage, two teams of dancers ran onto the stage. Their clothes fluttered gorgeously as they danced to the lively music. When the dancing reached its peak, the music suddenly stopped and a voice was heard rising slowly in the background, as though crossing over from the waters of Penglai Island into the mortal realm.

"Mother, that is Er Gouzi's [1] mother." Knowing that his mother was very angry, Jin Changfeng attempted to distract his mother and ease her anger. Otherwise, his sister's bottom would definitely suffer once they returned. He had not expected to recognise the songstress on the stage and his eyes lit up at the unexpectedly great topic.

"Er Gouzi's mother? Who is Er Gouzi?" Fu Qiuning asked with some confusion while looking at the songstress on the stage.

"It's natural that Mother would not remember. However, we remember it very clearly. Back when we were still living in the laundry area, Er Gouzi often come and bully us. He would proudly use his mother's songstress status and his bigger size to make fun of us and beat us…"

Jin Changfeng had purposefully mentioned the abuses from their younger days, and sure enough, Fu Qiuning's heart immediately softened.

She couldn't help but recall the day when the twins first arrived, half-starved, bruises all over their bodies and their fearful eyes. With a quiet sigh, she said, "The past is the past. Do not think of it anymore. People should be broadminded. No matter what he was like, Er Gouzi's future is limited as the son of a songstress. As for the two of you, the Young Master and Young Miss of a noble house with your father's favour on you, there is no need to bother with him, is there?"

Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao nodded. Seeing that her mother did not seem to be angry, Jin Changjiao, anxious to please her, hastily smiled and said, "I understand. Mother often says: A person bitten by a dog should not turn around to bite the dog, right?"

Jin Fengju had been listening intently as the mother and children talking. He had been elegantly sipping a glass of apricot flower wine when Jin Changjiao dropped this nugget of wisdom. He nearly spat out the wine in his mouth but managed to hold back, but ended up choking.

Madam Jiang glared at Fu Qiuning. Fu Qiuning, feeling a little embarrassed, thought: Really now, I cannot share my thoughts with these children. What troublemakers, ah! Wonderful, I have said so many things to you but you insisted on remembering this now.

As her thoughts kept rolling, she heard Jiang Wanying laugh, "What happened, Lord Husband? No jokes are being told on stage now, why have you choked on your wine?"

Jin Fengju wiped his mouth with a handkerchief, recovered his usual calm behaviour and leisurely said, "Nothing, I just remembered something funny and accidentally choked on my wine. Alright, enough talking. Pay attention to the stage. Back then, for the sake of inviting Missus Zhu into the marquisate, who knows how much effort was spent? In a year, she only sang a few times for us."

Madam Jiang laughed, "That is natural, rumour has it that this Missus Zhu was very famous in Jiangnan back then. Even the local government banquets attended by capital officials and imperial envoys would invite her to sing. It was not easy to invite her to our marquisate. Just listen, can you imagine an even better singer?"

Jin Changjiao was not at all convinced. Privately, she thought: This lady sings well, but Mother's singing is a thousand times better!

However, after what happened earlier, she dare not voice out the words.

As the moon slowly emerged from behind the mountains, Old Madam Jin personally went to the moon offering altar and put in an incense stick, knelt and prayed silently. She was followed by Madam Jiang, Jin Fengju, Fu Qiuning, Jiang Wanying and so on, who also went up to worship the moon. The crowd watched the singing and dancing for a while longer. As the moon slowly rose to the sky and spread its cold light all over the people, Old Madam Jin ordered the servants to extinguish half the lanterns. It was getting colder too, so she ordered everyone to enter the walled pavilion.

As the people were moving towards the walled area, Fu Qiuning took the opportunity to respectfully bow and say, "Old Ancestor, it is getting late. This humble woman always goes to bed early and wakes up early. The children too have never stayed up until this time and are very sleepy, moreover, the path to Night Breeze Pavilion is long. This humble woman believes that it is better to bid Old Ancestor goodbye and to pay respects another day…"

Old Madam Jin laughed: "What's the hurry? If Feng'er and Jiao'er are sleepy, they can fall asleep in my arms. Night Breeze Pavilion is so far away. There's no need to return tonight. Rest at my place for the night."

Fu Qiuning hastily replied, "Old Ancestor's kindness is abundant and should not be declined, but Feng'er and Jiao'er are used to sleeping in their kang beds since they were small, so if they suddenly go to Old Ancestor's house now, they may not be able to sleep and would cry or toss and turn, depriving the Old Ancestor of peace. This humble woman thinks that it would be best for them to return with me to Night Breeze Pavilion."

When she said this, Old Madam Jin also realised that she could not force them to stay and could only agree.

Just then, Jin Fengju came forward and said, "Old Ancestor, Night Breeze Pavilion is very remote, and they have to pass through Yong Cui Garden to get there. Why doesn't this grandson escort them back with a few people? After all, they were only women and children, how can they not be afraid?"

As the words left his lips, Madam Jiang said, "A good point, however, it's fine to have Jin Ming escort them along with a few servant boys. It is Mid-Autumn Festival and the Old Madam has not had enough fun yet, but you already wish to leave? If you return, that's fine, but what if you don't return?"

Seeing how his mother had rejected his suggestion, Jin Fengju turned to the Old Madam for help. Old Madam Jin's voice was affectionate as she said, "Your mother is right, send Jin Ming with a few people to escort them to Night Breeze Pavilion."

And so, the matter was settled. Jin Fengju watched as Jin Ming, along with several other servants, escorted Fu Qiuning away. He knew that there was no way he could get away from the crowd today and hear this woman personally sing for him.

"Come sit and talk with me. If you want to see your wife, surely you can do so anytime?" When Old Madam summoned him, Jin Fengju had no choice but to sit by her, along with the other ladies of the family. Soon, everyone settled down to listen to stories.

Seeing that no one was paying attention to them, Jin Fengju scooted over to Old Madam Jin's side and in a half-complaining voice, said, "It is one thing for others to not understand the grandsons' mind, but how could Grandmother not understand? Why didn't you let me go with them? I can investigate on Grandmother's behalf and find out just what kind of opera Qiuning can sing. Next time, I can even have her sing just for you. Now that you've made me stay here, I cannot strike while the iron is hot. Who knows how many ways she would deny this later."

Old Madam Jin grunted and said, "Enough nonsense from you. She could deny others, but can she deny you? No matter what, you are her husband. Moreover, I did this for her own good. While I generally understand your feelings, this has gone beyond my expectations. Grandson, ah. As the saying goes, 'Govern the State with an Orderly Family', only then would the world be peaceful. You have done well keeping your family well controlled while you serve the country.

Now that you have praised and promoted that Fu'shi so extensively, just look at your concubines. It is as though they cannot wait to eat her alive. If you had personally escorted her back tonight, ignoring even the Mid-Autumn Festival, tell me, would you not draw more fire towards her?"

Jin Fengju laughed and said, "Old Ancestor is right. However, if Old Ancestor saw all this with your foresight, why did you personally visit Night Breeze Pavilion? If you really wished for the sweet potatoes, would it not be better for her to quietly send some to you? Wouldn't going there with such fanfare draw fire to her too?"

Old Madam Jin poked Jin Fengju's forehead with a finger and spat, "You little white-eyed wolf, isn't it all for your sake? Grandma knew that you must have had feelings for her and intended to move her to your inner court sooner or later. It's best to familiarise her with the power plays of the inner court in moderation first. While I'm still alive, I can still protect her. Otherwise, if you suddenly throw her into that tiger-wolf den, wouldn't she be too bewildered to protect herself? Once she's harmed by the ones in your inner court, won't you be the one who is distressed?"

Jin Fengju was surprised, he did not even realise his love for Fu Qiuning himself. Although he had long decided to move Fu Qiuning into the inner court sooner or later, he had only taken note of her stability and calmness. He was sure that her stable temper would help him straighten out the unhealthy trends of glory-seeking, jealousy and intrigue that generally brewed within the inner court. He had never thought of fulfilling the vows between husband and wife.

While he had experienced the occasional quickening of pulse around her now and then, he thought it was the normal reaction of a man to a woman and did not take it to heart. After all, he was a married man with many wives and concubines. In fact, Fu Qiuning was comparatively ordinary-looking among all the women in his harem.

As for tonight's impulse, he had only meant to ask after the opera thing. Therefore, when Old Madam mentioned his 'feelings for her' he could not help but freeze in place for a moment. Finally, he merely smiled and did not argue with the Old Madam on the matter. He merely said, "A tiger-wolf den? Old Ancestor, you really know how to phrase things. How did my inner court become a tiger-wolf den? It's just a few wives and concubines poking at each other over some imagined slights and bitter jealousies. This is perfectly normal. Why on earth would you use the term 'Tiger-wolf den'?"

Old Madam Jin flashed a glance at Jin Fengju's concubines and smiled enigmatically, "Grandson, ah. You are a clever person. There are some things that should be clear without Grandma having to explain. You are sharp and wield your authority well, which is why they dare not allow themselves to have too many thoughts.

However, as their children grow older, their thoughts will grow as well. You should take care, ah. Back then, while your grandfather was still around, I stood beside him and kept watch as best I could. Even so, a few lives were lost. There are many nasty, dirty things hidden within large noble families. I only hope that you spare some effort, watch your people close and not let them commit evil again."

Old Madam Jin sounded very regretful as she spoke… Jin Fengju's heart shivered and he quickly schooled his face to reflect calmness. He said softly, "Yes, this grandson understands Grandmother's teachings and would not allow such tragedy to happen."

Let us return to Fu Qiuning's side.

When they reached Night Breeze Pavilion, Fu Qiuning fully intended to properly educate Jin Changjiao. However, when she noticed the children nodding from sleepiness, she could not bear to scold them and ordered Aunt Yu to prepare them for bed. Thus, nothing was said the whole night.

The next day was the day after the Mid-Autumn Festival, therefore, the school gave the children a day off. Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao did not get up early that day. They slept in a little after the unusually late bedtime the night before. Eventually, they got up, groomed themselves and prepared to face the day.

That was when Fu Qiuning called the two children to her side. Aunt Yu and Yu Jie were also there, standing to the left and right of Fu Qiuning. Fu Qiuning stared straight at Jin Changjiao and said, "Jiao'er, do you know what you did wrong?"

Jin Changjiao thought she had escaped punishment. Unexpectedly, she still had to face some scolding. She could only lower her head and whisper, "This daughter knows. Last night, I should not have stuck my head out and made Mother suffer from my unintentional remark. I beg mother's forgiveness."

Fu Qiuning sighed, "Ever since you first heard me sing, I warned you to never let anyone know of this. You must wonder what is there to be afraid, or shameful of, for people to know of this pleasant thing. While it is true that I do not wish to stand out, there is another, far more serious reason. Now that both Changfeng and Changjiao have grown up, I shall reveal the true reason for my fear."

She stood up and walked slowly to the window, as though sorting out her thoughts as she paced her steps. Finally, she said in a solemn voice, "Jiao'er must think that I am angry due to the insults from Jiang'shi. However, what are a few unpleasant words? In a noble household such as this, there are no shortages of sharp knives hidden in words. As the abandoned official wife aside, even Jiang'shi must have received many such cold remarks and hidden ridicule each day as the secondary wife. However, in the end, they are merely words and I would not lose flesh from it."

Fu Qiuning whirled around and stared at the four people with burning eyes. She lowered her voice and said carefully, "However, think, the Huangmei and Yue opera sung by me, has any of you ever heard of it? Feng'er and Jiao'er are too young, but Yu Jie, Aunt Yu. You especially, Yu Jie. As someone who had travelled with the human traffickers and changed owners several times, you are the most well-travelled among us. I ask you this, have you ever heard any of my songs outside?"

Yu Jie thought for a moment, and murmured, "To be honest, I have gotten so used to Madam's singing that it sounds natural to me. However, after thinking about it, the Yue Opera sounded most similar to the tunes hummed by Jiangnan boat girls, although more refined. As for the Huangmei, I have never heard it."

Fu Qiuning nodded, "That is so. I happened to meet an eccentric old woman and secretly learned these songs from her. Even my own mother has no idea. Back then, I only thought her singing was very pleasant and she was more than happy to pass down her knowledge to me. I learned it, thinking that it was a fun pastime. It was only after I returned to the capital and mingled with others that I finally realised that not a single person could sing half a line of the Yue or Huangmei opera.

I have also secretly made inquiries with the opera singers for information, but not a single one of them knew about these songs. Instead, I was asked where I have learned it from. I could only make up a lie and gloss over the matter. Over the years, the more I thought of the matter, the more afraid I became. As you must know, those who are abnormal are considered demonic.

Though I have some talent, I could never have come up with original songs by myself, let alone full sets of operas. A single opera requires the cooperation of many people to create and the knowledge of singing techniques passed down from generation to generation. How could I have come up with any of them alone?

However, I do know them. Therefore, I must take pains to cover up these abnormalities and never allow a single clue to slip. Otherwise, in this noble house where the schemes of the people are as deep as the seas, and where I am already a thorn in the side of the Young Marquis' wives and concubines, once my knowledge of opera singing is exposed…

Well, they might first praise me for my good singing. After that? They would ask, where have I learned it? How do you expect me to answer? Am I to find that old woman as my witness? She died the year I left the village and is nothing but a pile of bones now. However, aside from her, who else could vouch for me? How should I prove that I have learned this skill from others? What if someone intends to frame me? With such a life-threatening knowledge hanging over me, I ask you, how can I not be afraid?"

The more she spoke, the colder and more frightened Yu Jie, Aunt Yu and the twins became. Cold sweat wet their backs as they finally understood the gravity of the matter. In that era, they naturally understood accusations of demonic possessions and poisonous rumours could ruin a person. Who knew how many wives and concubines had been forced to their death over something as simple as unusual talents? No wonder the Madam was so frightened.

After all, the moment someone screams 'demon', could she still remain here? Want to gain a foothold? It would be good if she could preserve her life.

Fu Qiuning observe them as she privately breathed a sigh of relief. This was one of her biggest secrets. She finally explained it in a manner that would freak Yu Jie and the rest to never reveal the matter to outsiders. This way, so long as she continued to stay within Night Breeze Pavilion and sing now and then, it would all be fine.

She had finally gotten her breathing under control and was about to say something when she heard a light chuckle at the door. A too familiar voice called out, "Here I thought why you refuse to sing for us last night. To think that you've tied yourself up with complicated thoughts!"

To Fu Qiuning's horror, Jin Fengju pushed open the door and stepped in.

Fright took the strength out of her body and she collapsed into the crouch with an audible sound. Her hands and feet were cold as she thought: No, no, no, it's all over. To think that this terrible man had been eavesdropping at the door. How… how can it be? Has he heard everything? Wasn't he supposed to meet the emperor for morning court? Why is he here? Why did the emperor let him out early?

All sorts of thoughts ran through her mind she shook, too frightened to even salute the man.

When Jin Fengju saw her white face, he grew anxious. He turned to look at the maids and children, all of whom also looked equally nervous. He hastily said, "Do not worry, only your father heard your mother's explanation. There are no outsiders around. Aunt Yu, take the Young Master and Young Miss to the study first. I wish to speak with Qiuning for a moment."

Yu Jie and Aunt Yu were at a loss what to do. They turned to Fu Qiuning, who was sprawled on the couch, as unmoving as a wooden doll. With no other choice, they could only salute the master and escorted the children to the study. All the while worrying for their mistress.

Here, Jin Fengju sat down beside Fu Qiuning. Seeing that she was still in a daze, he took her hands and said gently, "Why are you so frightened? Your hands are as cold as ice. Just what kind of performance is it that you are so sure would elicit such a response? Something that does not exist anywhere in the country? To the point that you will be demonised?"

Fu Qiuning was truly flustered and could not help herself. All of her operas came from her past life. It was her biggest secret and the thing that could expose her true origins. Now that it has been discovered by this shrewd and unfathomable man, how could she remain calm and rational?

However, when she heard this question, Fu Qiuning immediately realised that this was a great opportunity as well. She must seize this chance to present herself as a helpless innocent and convince Jin Fengju to believe her made-up story. So long as he believes it, even if she accidentally exposes herself in the future, she would still have this plausible denial.

Thus, with real fear underlining her lies, her eyes filled with real tears as she stared up at Jin Fengju, "Wh-when did Lord Husband come to the door? How much have you heard?"

Jin Fengju smiled and said, "When I arrived, I found your door closed and felt curious. I sent Jin Ming to wait in the courtyard. I happened to hear you say that words and insults are nothing as they won't cause you to lose flesh. Everything aside, I must say that you are very broadminded. If my other wives and concubines have even half of your wisdom, I do not have to worry as much."

Fu Qiuning looked as though she had not heard the rest of his words. She murmured, "If Lord Husband has eavesdropped since then, you must have heard the rest." At this, more tears fell and she shook her head sadly. "Lord Husband, this humble woman has carried this burden in her heart for more than ten years. This humble woman grows more and more afraid every day. Perhaps this humble woman should have just stopped, but this humble woman was good at it.

This humble woman had thought to die with them within Night Breeze Pavilion. Aside from the people here, these operas should never have spread beyond these walls. When Jiao'er exposed me last night, this humble woman was so frightened that this humble woman hardly slept. All these years, this humble woman is thankful to Mother Ye for teaching me these skills, for they have sustained me in my lonely life. However, this humble woman also resented her.

This humble woman resents her for her lessons. Why did she teach this humble woman these suspicious things? Where did she learn them from? Why does none of these operas exist? However, she had long since returned to the yellow earth and the answers are all beyond my reach. She had placed this dangerous knowledge on this humble woman and this humble woman has suffered the burden of it ever since."

Jin Fengju said wonderingly, "You say opera, so was the poem on the table one of them? Here I thought it was one page of good writing, but from what you say, it should be whole books of operas. This is indeed not something that could be accomplished alone. Well, it is pointless to talk about this. You should sing for me. I want to have a listen and see just what sort of one of a kind opera you have that makes you so frightened."

Fu Qiuning took a deep breath. She knew that she could no longer hide this secret from Jin Fengju. Therefore, she wiped her eyes and took some time to gather herself, as though recovering from true fright. Finally, after a fortifying sip of tea, she sang a paragraph of a Yue Opera classic.

" [2]

Sorrowful, I support the qin in my hand

My own life is mine to figure out

Before me, sat my beloved

Sadly, I have eyes but cannot see

Fu Qiuning sang for a quarter of an hour before the song finally concluded. Once the song was over, Fu Qiuning stood up nervously, her nerves stretched to near panic again as she looked through the window to see if there was anyone else listening in. When she saw no one, her nerves settled down a little.

When she turned to look at Jin Fengju, she was taken aback by his bewitched expression.

The enchanted man suddenly stood up and exclaimed, "The song is indeed most wondrously melodious. The notes are drawn out and lingering, as though they could remain in the air for three full days. It is a most excellent song. However, I can tell that it is merely a single section. You must sing the whole opera for me."

Fu Qiuning stumbled and nearly fell. She flashed a look at Jin Fengju and shook her head, "My heart is all confused now. I sang one section for you, just to let you understand what I am speaking of. In fact, I have not sung it well. How could I sing the whole opera right now? Lord Husband, I beg that for my safety and peace, please, please do not ever let this secret out. This humble woman's life and everything all depends on your word." Then, she attempted to throw herself at Jin Fengju's feet.

Jin Fengju hastily helped her up. He appeared to not care about anything else as he continued to exclaim, "Your opera is truly unique and refreshing, it is also very charming to the ear. If you claim that no one else in the country can sing thus, this may well be true. I have travelled to many places these past few years and have never heard anything like it. The only puzzling thing is the identity of that old woman who had taught you. Since she has taught you everything before her death, it looks like even the heavens themselves are not willing to allow such a wondrous thing to be buried away and found its way to you.

Do not be frightened, although those who are abnormal are often considered demonic, these plays of yours are pleasing to the ears and ease the heart. If you insist on calling them abnormal, then one should liken them to the fairies of the heavens rather than the demons of hell. After all, how could those ugly demons produce something so melodious and heavenly?

[2] As an inner noble house woman who has never stepped out of the courtyard, you could not have known that the Great Ning Dynasty is currently experiencing great prosperity and wealth. Nations large and small from all around come to celebrate and pay tribute at the capital every year. Although it was not a fixed rule, each nation would send a representative to stand on stage to perform at the All Nations Cultural Festival. At times, even the emperor would perform too. It is a wonderfully lively celebration.

Each year, many people of curious talents would appear. Although I have won first place as a representative of Great Ning many times, talents from other countries have started to emerge like fierce crocodiles. These past few years, our victories have been hard-won. If you truly have a whole new genre of opera in your possession, it would shine brightest on stage when performed by a well-rehearsed troupe. At that time, even the emperor would praise you. Who would dare to treat you like a demon, then? Come, sing the whole play for me. I swear that I will keep you safe."

When he was done talking, Fu Qiuning was stunned: Nani? There's such a good thing?

No way, ah. This doesn't fit into the usual transmigration novel route where her predecessors wowed the audience by quoting a few lines from a long-dead poet. Then again, even in modern times, someone like me who could sing entire plays by myself would be considered unconventional. Wait, shouldn't the main female character hide their special skill and only perform before a few people? Or, have I fallen into the genre where opera is the golden finger through which I become famous and wealthy?

No, no, no, none of this makes sense, ah.

Seeing that she was still in a daze, Jin Fengju assumed that she was still in shock and was suffering from fright. Therefore, he could not help but smile and said, "It will be fine, I have already vowed to keep you safe and shall keep this promise. It is you who frightened yourself with heavy thoughts. Just like 'The man of the Qi state who fears the sky would one day fall down [3]'. Come, sing a couple more songs for me."

Fu Qiuning looked at the eager face before her. There was no trace of shock or suspicion, merely excitement.

[1] She privately sighed and thought: Whatever, let us forget about it and not court disaster. After all, this guy already [1] 'knew' about my deepest secret. Let's just appease him with a few songs, after all, my life is in his hands regardless. Since he wanted me to, why should I be afraid to sing? If I were to die, well, who knows, I might just be sent back to my original timeline. That would be a happy ending for me too.

Once she had thought things through, she gave a little cough and said lightly, "Lord Husband, it is as you have said. Just now, what I have sung is called the Yue Opera. The next one will be the Huangmei Opera."

Without waiting for Jin Fengju to comment, she opened her mouth and sang.

"[4] You and he are childhood friends, so sweet and so loving…"

Although Jin Fengju was born into a rich and well-connected family, he had never heard such a harmonious tune in his life.

As you must know, the musical entertainment of ancient times was nothing like the modern times. In the few decades of their lives, even the wealthiest family only ever heard a few 'new' operas in their lives. Therefore, if a new genre of opera were to suddenly burst into the scene, how can they not be captivated?

After hearing the end of the Huangmei Opera, Jin Fengju could not help but clap his hands in admiration. He said, "Good words, good lines, it's all wonderfully fresh and delightful. I wonder, just where did that old mother come from? Was she the Fairy [5] Lin Fan? If so, I wonder just how did she fall into that pitiful state? What a pity, ah. What a pity…" he shook his head and sighed.

Fu Qiuning privately laughed. She thought: What Fairy Lin Fan? I made up that old lady to cover my tracks and hide my bizarre identity.

In fact, while the [6] original owner of her body had been languishing in the countryside with her mother, there was indeed a strange old woman in the same village. Back then, the original's mother thought they had been banished from the palace forever, never to return to the capital, and had therefore washed her face with tears of self-pity every day. The original could not bear seeing her mother cry and always ran outside alone. An old unmarried woman had probably taken pity on a little girl and took the child under her wing. Inevitably, the two grew close.

Nine years later, original goods Fu Qiuning left the village and was made to marry into the Jin Marquisate. In the same year, the old lady died. These were all memories that had been left with this body, [1] along with the knowledge of how to play the qin and do embroidery. Unexpectedly, it also provided her with an explanation for her unusual knowledge.

After the song ended, Fu Qiuning turned to Jin Fengju and said, "After hearing me sing for half a day, Lord Husband should have some understanding of my fears. Only, my fate is now up to your discretion. Can you keep my secret and spare my life?"

Jin Fengju narrowed his eyes at her. A smile quirked up a corner of his lips as he drawled, "I'm fine keeping a secret for you, but, how do you plan to thank me?"

Fu Qiuning breathed a private sigh of relief, she had him. She deliberately sniffed and turned away, "You have seen our place. You make take whatever you wish from Night Breeze Pavilion. Only, I fear that we do not have anything that will catch your eye. I have nothing on my person, but my life. If you wish it, you may take it any time."

Jin Fengju felt his senses suddenly dimming. As an intelligent person, he naturally knew the difference between 'life' and 'person'. He had not expected that even until this point, Fu Qiuning would refuse to expose any weakness, not letting him any opportunity to take advantage of the situation to change their relationship. He sat upright and said in a grave voice, "I can keep this secret for you, on one condition. That is, should the time come and you are required to sing these plays openly and sincerely, you must not hide away. Can you do that?"

Fu Qiuning frowned, "You are referring to that All Nations Cultural Festival? What for? Are we not a great empire with no lack of talented people? Why should I show my secret there? What's more, the countries that come to celebrate and pay tribute to us are merely border nations or those wild places. How could they be compared with our great civilisation?"

"Have you never heard of the term 'Beyond the tall hills, taller mountains stand'?" Jin Fengju shook his head sternly. "Anyway, let us settle the matter this way. Do not worry, this is a good thing. It's not like singing is a crime. I am good enough to protect you so there's no need to worry. However, since you are afraid, there's no need to spread the matter, not many people know about your talents anyway."

He had already made up his mind to dominate the All Nations Cultural Festival with this unique opera. That's because, for this coming Cultural Festival, the Ministry of Rites and the emperor had brought up the matter in court, concerned about what to perform during the festival. This was why he had suddenly thought of it.

Since he had insisted, Fu Qiuning was helpless to deny him. She thought: Whatever, since he promised to protect me, I can only rely on him. In the future, I shall deal with each matter as they come up.

She was busy pondering over this when she heard Jin Fengju giggle to himself, "Only, you know, now that I know, you can't blame me for being a little selfish. In the future, you must sing for me when I come~"

Fu Qiuning glanced at him and thought: This guy seems to like opera a lot. [7] Moreover, this crazy rich family paid a lot of money to invite a singer and her son to live in their marquisate only to sing a handful of times a year. If I were to indulge him, what would happen to me once I can no longer drive him out of my house? If I'm forced into the inner court, just how much hatred and jealousy would those wives and concubines have for me?

Therefore, she hastily said, "Lord Husband is busy most days, how could you delay your work for such frivolities? If Lord Husband really likes it, I shall sing 3 times a month for Lord Husband, how about it?"

"How could 3 times be enough?!" Jin Fengju howled. [a]

Fu Qiuning merely smiled, "Why ever not? Shall I calculate for Lord Husband? Lord Husband has 3 concubines, 1 low-level concubine and 2 common room girls. Naturally, these are merely the ones I know of. 6 women, and each should be accompanied by Lord Husband at least twice per month, that's 12 days. Naturally, Lord Husband should spend 15 days with Lord Husband's cousin sister, the secondary wife, to appease her. Visiting my place 3 times per month is already stretching the limit. Were I more virtuous, I should only allow 1 visit a month."

Jin Fengju stared at Fu Qiuning's bent eyebrows and curved eyes and could not help but gnash his teeth. However, he knew she was right. Depressed, he thought: Who on earth does not long for her husband's favour, ah? This person is the opposite. That must be because she had never tasted love between men and women. I heard that women who had never experienced physical love would never desire it for the rest of their lives unless they were born sluts.

Looks like Fu Qiuning is such a virtuous person, ah! Aih! If I had known, I would never have made that promise to her. If I could have a husband and wife relationship with her, would she still push me away into another person's arms?

Aih!

Looks like he had really miscalculated, ah.

The two of them spoke for a long time. Meanwhile, Yu Jie, Aunt Yu and the twins were feeling anxious outside. Jin Changjiao had long since made noise about wanting to see her mother while Jin Changfeng and Aunt Yu did their best to block her. Close to two hours later, even Aunt Yu could not help herself anymore and advanced to the room with the twins' hands in hers. As they stepped closer to the room, they heard laughter floating out and could finally breathe a sigh of relief.

They were about to retreat quietly when Jin Ming called from outside, "Miss Yu Jie, excuse me, but could you please inform the master that Prince Rong had sent over a few pots of famous Chrysanthemum plants? Additionally, Prince Rong wishes to invite Master to the imperial banquet. That is… the master asked me to wait for him, but had not allowed me in. I trouble miss to help me inform the master.

As soon as Jin Ming was done speaking, the door suddenly opened. Jin Fengju was standing in the doorway, frowning at him. "What are you doing? If you have something to say, just shout from outside. What's this about having others pass messages for you? What's the message anyway? What does my brother-in-law want?"

Jin Ming hastily bowed and smiled ingratiatingly at Jin Fengju, "Aiyo, Master. As you have heard, it's really nothing much. A few pots of rare chrysanthemum plants have been sent from Prince Rong's palace. Additionally, the prince has invited you to partake in a banquet at his place."

Jin Fengju nodded, "Very well, I understand."

He was about to return to the room again when he noticed Aunt Yu, Yu Jie and the children loitering at the door. He said, "Why have you come out from the study? Are you done with your reading? If you're done, go practise your calligraphy with 20 large characters. I still have some matters to discuss with your mother."

Aunt Yu and Yu Jie reluctantly received the order. [1]

Jin Fengju turned to Jin Ming once more, "That's right, you say His Highness sent over a few pots of rare chrysanthemums? Have they all been distributed?"

Jin Ming smiled, "Not yet, Madam has given one pot each to Old Madam, Elder Madam and Second Elder Madam. She said to wait for Master's orders before distributing the rest."

Jin Fengju muttered to himself for a moment before saying, "Bring one pot to Night Breeze Pavilion. As for the rest, have Wanying decide how to distribute them."

Jin Ming received the order and rushed off. Jin Fengju was finally able to retreat into the room. He found Fu Qiuning in the middle wrapping a scarf around her head, eschewing all sparkling hair pins and other accessories in favour of plain cloth. When she saw him re-enter the room, she said, "Still haven't left yet? Weren't you about to leave for Prince Rong's palace?"

Jin Fengju sneered, "I have never seen someone like you who so eagerly [2] 'Destroy bridges after crossing a river', or [3] 'Killing the donkey after reaching one's destination'. Oh, wait, you haven't even crossed the river or reached your destination yet, but are already in a hurry to destroy bridges and kill donkeys. How docile you were when you begged me to keep your secret. In a blink of an eye, you turned to me with a 'Still haven't left yet'? Surely you change your face too quickly?"

Fu Qiuning ignored the short sharp mocking laughter as she stood and faced him, "What's this about destroying bridges after crossing a river? Didn't I hear that Prince Rong has invited you to his palace? Have I heard wrong?"

Jin Fengju strode over to sit on the edge of the kang bed. He flopped onto his back sulkily, "The banquet only starts at night, it is only mid-morning now. I won't be late even if I start going there in the evening. There's nothing to do but entertain those dignitaries whose only ability is flattery. Aside from those skilled in flattery, there were few with notable talents among that bunch."

He complained for a long time, but heard nothing from Fu Qiuning. Therefore, he sat up and saw the other party was sitting before the mirror, deep in thought. Though her hair was simply wrapped up in blue silk, with not a single accessory in sight, there was a pureness and clarity to her looks that evoked the words 'carved from nature, and adorned with clear waters and hibiscus flowers'.

"Why aren't you speaking? Do you find me boring? Why do I have to go to the palace again? I have no choice, brother-in-law is that kind of person. If I don't accompany him for a drink or two and exchange a few poems, he would feel that he has lost face. I have to go and socialise," Jin Fengju felt compelled to explain.

However, when Fu Qiuning turned around, her expression was indifferent. Her tone was mild as she said, "Lord Husband, no matter what, these are not words that could ever be uttered by me. I am merely a woman, what do I know? Only, since you have given me a promise and swear to protect me for life, this humble woman's life is bound with yours forever. Therefore, doubt roiled in my heart and I wonder if I should speak it."

"Speak," Jin Fengju waved a careless hand at her. "It's just some small talk, naturally, I shall know to deal with matters as I see fit."

Fu Qiuning smiled and said, "That you have spoken thus, my heart feels at ease. In fact, it is really nothing. I am merely pondering, perhaps His Highness' mind is yet unclear. Before, Prince Rong was suppressed and Prince Hong was raised. However, now we see Prince Hong suppressed and Prince Rong, as well as Prince Lie, risen by His Majesty. The so-called Heaven's Will is unpredictable. This humble woman felt that Prince Rong ought to exercise more restraint. Otherwise, the sin of forgetting oneself could lead one down the path where joy turns to sorrow."

Jin Fengju had been wearing an indulgent smile when she began voicing her doubts. However, he looked very solemn now. He studied the woman before him and noticed that Fu Qiuning appeared uneasy to be the target of such deep scrutiny. He smiled slightly and stood up, "It's fine, I have stayed long enough. I should pay my greetings to the Old Ancestor."

With that, he stepped outside, Fu Qiuning hurrying from behind to send him off.

However, when Jin Fengju reached the door, he suddenly stopped. He turned to Fu Qiuning and said in a soft voice, "Qiuning, one day your father may regret marrying you off to me. If that happens, and he wants to take you back, what would you do?"

For a moment, Fu Qiuning was stunned. A complicated expression crossed her face: What is this question? Are you testing my resolve? [1]

Pulling a serious expression, she said, "What is the Young Marquis speaking about? Though we are not husband and wife in reality, we are still husband and wife in name. As the saying goes, 'A Woman Follows Her Husband in Death and Does Not Marry a Second Time'. Naturally, I shall abide by this women's law as well. What's more, I have already married out, so long as the Young Marquis does not give consent, surely even my father would not dare to disgrace his own face like that?"

Jin Fengju smiled. However, his eyes were still sharp as he said, "Are you saying you are happy with this kind of widow-like life? If your father promises to find a better home for you if you return to him, will you not be touched at all?"

"What is the matter with the Young Marquis today? Your questions are a little strange." Fu Qiuning was really confused. However, she answered sincerely, "No matter what supposed good family awaits me, I only know that Young Marquis is the first person who had solemnly sworn to protect me for life. Why should Qiuning ask for anything beyond a peaceful life? As for my father and grandfather, back then, they were the ones who sent me over to humiliate you.

They did not possess even half a regard for my life or death. One could say that I have not a single shred of affection for them. Since they do not possess the righteousness of fathers, and Qiuning had already married out, where would I find the energy to uncover enough filial piety to obey their orders? Is that not so, Young Marquis?"

Jin Fengju's eyes brightened. His eyes were very brilliant as he thought for a long time before nodding seriously. "When it is time to decide, you are decisive. Since you are ruthless, I shall be pitiless. Good, as expected of the wife of Jin Fengju." With that final remark, he laughed out loud and finally strode off.

"What the heck, so shameless. It's not like you chose me as your wife, nor are we truly man and wife," Fu Qiuning's lips curled as she looked at Jin Fengju's tall straight back. She covered her mouth and laughed quietly to herself, "Had I not just say 'do not forget oneself'? You have given me a clear example of why this saying exists. I suppose you do not know that we modern people have an accompanying saying: 'Those who left with a smile will return on a stretcher' [5]. Young Marquis, you should be careful and not celebrate too early lest you be plunged into misery, ah. I am still waiting for you to be my protective charm."

As though in answer to Fu Qiuning's prediction, Jin Fengju left with laughter and suffered later. The difference was, he was not brought back on a stretcher. In fact, he did not return at all.

Please read this at kitchennovel dot com ~

"How do you explain this? His Highness is one thing since that fellow must have been brewed out of a wine jar, but why is the Young Marquis drunk to this point? Why had none of you dissuaded him from drinking? All of you had better watch your skin, if I catch any of you in the wrong, I shall tan your worthless hide." [1]

Within Prince Rong's palace, the graceful and noble princess was in the middle of removing her makeup when someone brought report that the people in the side hall were all drunk and begged her for instructions.

While the princess continued to scold them, each of the servants kept quiet, afraid to invite her wrath upon their heads. Only the steward was brave enough to stiffen his scalp and step forward to say, "The Young Marquis is generally very measured with his drinking, today, however… this lowly one noticed that for some reason, the Young Marquis appeared very happy. Usually, he would be the one to dissuade His Highness, but this time, His Highness was the one who tried to dissuade him. In the end… in the end, even His Highness was caught up with the Young Marquis' pace and hence… We beg the princess to advise. What should we do now, ah? They still have to attend court tomorrow morning."

"What can we do? Escort His Highness and the Young Marquis to the study. Make two bowls of sobering soup. Also, have them keep a Sobering Stone [6] in their mouths. Do not allow them to remove the stones until they have sobered up. If they appeared before the emperor in their state, won't they just invite His Majesty's scolding?" [1]

The princess looked very angry. She turned to one of the servants, "And you, send word to the Jin Marquisate, inform the Second Madam that the Young Marquis is drunk and being kept here by me. Have her prepare his court clothes and bring them over. He can leave for court from my place. Be sure not to let the Second Madam worry." [1]

When she was done speaking, she swept furious eyes over the stumbling guests. Although she was still very angry, she had no idea which of Prince Rong's guests was an important figure and dared not neglect any of them. Finally, she gave the order for the servants to escort the guests into hastily prepared rooms and have maids look after them. After rushing about for a while, everything was finally arranged.

The next morning, it was not yet dawn when Jin Fengju woke up. He spat out the sobering stone and rolled out of bed. He stretched luxuriously and the movements alerted the maid who was keeping watch outside. She hurried over to say, "Young Marquis has awakened? Please wait, I shall have washing water brought over. After washing up, Her Highness said she wished for you to call on her."

Jin Fengju acknowledged this. Not long after that, someone brought a golden basin of water, a square towel, soap and other grooming items. After washing his face and combing his hair, the princess came in. Seeing this much-beloved little brother of hers, the scoldings and reprimands she had prepared all disappeared. [1]

She sat down with a huff. "Just look at yourself. Here I have always praised you for having a steady temperament. When your brother-in-law is in a mood, you are to dissuade him. You have always done so, but what happened last night? You were even drunker than your brother-in-law, I really had no choice but to keep you over for a night. Who knows how Wanying would complain to me this time."

Jin Fengju smiled, "I was too happy yesterday and forgot myself. I had unexpectedly gotten carried away. Fortunately, Elder Sister made me hold the sobering stone, otherwise, I really do not know what would happen. At the very least, it would be very shameful."

Jin Yanqiu nodded. Then, she smiled and said, "The steward did say you looked unusually happy yesterday. What happened? What is it that made you this happy? Little brother, you have always been a very steady and indifferent person. When you were little, even elder sister rarely saw you forget yourself. What's this wonderful thing that made you so happy?"

Jin Fengju chuckled. He approached the princess and said in a low voice, "Sister, have you heard of jade stones? The outer appearance of the stone is similar to ordinary rocks. When picked up by those who did not know of the value hidden within, they treated it like garbage or just discarded it on the wayside, leaving it to gather dust. It is only after it had been tormented by rain and wind or until it met an intelligent man with a discerning eye that its true value would be exposed."

"How could I not know? Isn't that the story from Mister He's Jade [2]?"

Princess Consort Rong fanned herself with her handkerchief, her phoenix eyes [3] looking at her younger brother with a hint of mockery as she said, "What is it? Have you encountered a beautiful hidden jade? Surely you haven't cast your eyes on some brothel courtesan, have you? I shall warn you now, even your brother-in-law dare not be so naughty. If you dare to be so lively as to roam those places, see if I do not pass down a decree to have your legs broken."

"Tsk, where has Elder Sister's thoughts wandered to? I have no eyes for those vulgar, powdered and gaudy creatures. What I am saying is… enough, enough, anyway, you won't understand me for now. However, I shall tell you this: This time I have really picked up a treasure. It's fine so long as you know that." Jin Fengju said as he waved his hands at her, clearly not wanting to explain himself to his sister.

"You dare whet your sister's appetite and leave me with 'you won't understand me for now'?" Princess Consort Rong snorted. "I haven't heard of any new concubines or common room girls. Even so, it doesn't matter. With your status, you are entitled to more. The concubines, lesser concubines and other girls by your side have all aged now. My illustrious younger brother is still so youthful, handsome and outstanding. It is only right for you to receive a few new girls. Just the other day, Lord Gu's wife told me that, back at her place…"

"Stop stop stop, elder sister please don't mention this anymore. The few at home are quarrelsome enough to trouble my peace. What would happen if I bring more home?" Jin Fengju waved his hand a little more frantically at his sister. "Those few are enough. I have more than enough to occupy my time, and though they are no longer fresh, old affection is still better than new strifes."

When Princess Consort Rong heard this, she could not help but stomp her feet in a huff. She poked his forehead and snapped, "I really don't understand you. Just look at other families. Their prospects are so much more inferior than yours and yet they each have eight or nine concubines in their inner court. Look at you, a youth in your prime, but you live like an old man!"

Jin Feng studied his face in the mirror closely. Suddenly, he asked, "Elder Sister, are you sure that this little brother of yours is as good as you say? Someone named me the most beautiful man in the capital…"

Before he could finish, his sister tossed her head and stuck her nose in the air, "But of course, when it comes to looks, there are none that could match my little brother in the whole capital. Not only that, I dare say there is not a single man in the entire Great Ning Empire whose looks can be compared to my little brother's.

What's more, looks are secondary. All one has to do is take a look around and tell me, who else holds such a high position at such a young age? And a favourite of the emperor too! What's even more unique is your exceptional character as a family man. Who in the capital does not know that the Young Marquis is a gentle family man so warmly considerate towards his wives and concubines, that even after six years of marriage, he had never accepted a new person into their home to this day?

Otherwise, would those officials' wives be so eager to marry their precious daughters to you? They would even welcome the opportunity to enter your harem as a lesser concubine. So long as I give the word, and so long as you are willing, no woman in existence would refuse you."

Jin Fengju muttered to himself in bewilderment, "Everyone said so, but I cannot think so. Since everyone seems to believe it, it must be true, but why is it that she treats me with disdain? Even now, she practically has me in her hand, but still maintains the 'still water within an ancient well' behaviour she had since the beginning. I really don't know what to do."

"What are you muttering about over there? There is a girl you like, but hesitate to propose to? If so, leave it to Elder Sister. Speaking of which, have you rid yourself of that worthless and disgraceful shu-born daughter of Prince Zhenjiang? Humph, once you've divorced her, if you don't give Wanying the Official Wife position, you may still marry a royal princess or even an imperial princess. After all, you hold such high status, and with your brother-in-law receiving the old man's attention… you listen to me, you must strike while the iron is hot…"

"Sister, don't mention this anymore. I still need to go to court. You should just give up on being my matchmaker." Jin Fengju stood up, stopping her excited flow of words with an agitated wave of his hand.

This only served to anger Princess Consort Rong. She was about to scold him for being impotent when Prince Rong's voice was heard, "Fengju, ah. Are you not done grooming yet? It's time to leave for court, quickly now."

The man himself stepped in and looked a little taken aback to see Princess Consort Rong right then. He laughed heartily and said, "Ah, Beloved Consort is here as well. Hehe, that is, I- I shall leave for court with Fengju first. Whatever you need to talk about, you may continue later when we return, ah."

He immediately tried to pull Jin Fengju away, but Jin Fengju said, "Hold on, brother-in-law, I haven't put on my official clothes yet. Do you want the emperor to punish me for disorderly conduct before His Majesty?"

"Oh oh oh, is that so, ah? Well, go and change quickly," As Prince Rong glanced over at his consort, he smiled simperingly at her and said, "That is…Beloved Consort, would you mind withdrawing for a bit?"

"Hmph, I cannot bear the sneaky looks on your faces," Princess Consort Rong glared at the two fellows. She snapped her handkerchief once before swaying out of the room.

Prince Rong wiped the cold sweat from his head. He glanced outside to make sure that the princess consort had left before inflating his chest and straightening his spine. He coughed, "Well? Did your sister give you a hard time? I was at fault last night for not paying attention and letting you over-drink. However, you cannot blame me for that, ah. All this while, you were the one to dissuade me from drinking, how would I know that you would take the lead yesterday and drink so vigorously?"

Jin Fengju put on his official uniform. While a maid tied on his belt, he fiddled with his cuffs with a little laugh, "Naturally, brother-in-law could not pay attention as you got drunk even before I did. I remember after you got drunk, I had a whole bottle of Bamboo Leaf Green [4] to myself."

"What? Bamboo Leaf Green? You—- You drank a whole bottle of Bamboo Leaf Green?" The flesh on Prince Rong's face quivered.

Puzzled, Jin Fengju looked back at him, "That's right, it was the last bottle of wine on the table so I drank it. I must say, the taste is really not bad."

"Nonsense, how can it taste bad? That is a bottle of 40-year-old Bamboo Leaf Green from my special collection! Back then, I had a lot of trouble getting my hands on 10 bottles. I presented 6 bottles to Father, leaving only 4 for myself. I cannot bear to even take a sip, only taking a bottle out for a little whiff or two. Other times, I cannot help it and took out a bottle and placed it on the table for show. To think that you'd… you rascal… you actually drank one whole bottle! Good, ah! Now I only have 3 bottles left…"

Prince Rong collapsed in his chair, his face twisted as he cried without tears. Jin Fengju wanted to laugh, yet he dared not. He knew that this brother-in-law of his was pretty good and generous with many things, however, he was addicted to good wine. Who knew just how many treasures he has within his special collection? Even so, this 40-year-old Bamboo Leaf Green must be one of the crowning jewels in his cellar. No wonder he looked like he was on the verge of grief after Jin Fengju had drunk it by mistake.

"Brother-in-law, you often say that you and I are life and death companions who would forge our paths through disasters. However, it looked like this friendship could not even win against a bottle of top-quality Bamboo Leaf Green? If you blame me for drinking your wine, well, that's fine. I'll just have to search the whole world over to find you a replacement bottle. In the meantime, you may replace me as well," Jin Fengju huffed exaggeratedly as he flung his sleeves, lifted his chin and feigned anger as he made to stomp past his brother-in-law.

However, he was caught by Prince Rong who laughed and said, "Fine. fine, it is I who is petty. No matter what, it's just a bottle of wine, how could it be compared to my good little brother? Right? Just now, I was a little afraid that your sister will reprimand you and became a little flustered. I lost my composure just now. Come, come, it is time to leave, we must be there on time. What an embarrassment it would be for us brothers-in-law to appear late in court. We would be laughed at by Prince Lie and Prince Hong's faction. Humph, you know I simply cannot stand those people."

Jin Fengju stopped walking. After some thought, he turned to Prince Rong and said, "Brother-in-law, though His Majesty recently praised you, it is best not to be complacent. Let us take Prince Hong as a living lesson. Back then, just how much favour did the emperor graced him with? But now? With just a single sentence, he was thrown down from the clouds to the earth. You have endured for many years, do not throw away your effort for a moment of success. It is possible the emperor wishes to see your heart and find out if you can endure both favour and humiliation without wavering."

Prince Rong wiped the cold sweat on his head and nodded, "Fengju, you are right. Recently, my father did treat me very well, bestowing a lot of things, and often threw banquets. I believed that the end of my suffering had arrived and had gotten a little carried away. Looks like I must continue to show modesty and restraint in the future."

The reason why Jin Fengju and this brother-in-law of his could talk heart-to-heart was that Prince Rong, Zhao Lun was big-hearted, benevolent and straightforward. Although he was plagued with little bad habits, he was still worth supporting. More importantly, there was no need to fear that this man would turn around and be suspicious of the people who had supported him. By tying the Jin Marquisate with Prince Rong through his sister and his sons as nephews of the future emperor, the future of the Marquisate is more or less guaranteed. So long as the Jin Marquisate was not too domineering and so long as the emperor's nephews showed even the smallest bit of achievement, a hundred years' glory would be assured. All this was not accounting for the merits he had already accumulated on behalf of Prince Rong.

Thus, after seeing Prince Rong wholeheartedly accepting his advice, he did not nag on. Although the prince was a straightforward person, he also possessed a brain. Otherwise, he would not have amassed so many supporters on his side. As the saying went, 'there's no need to sound a drum with a heavy hammer', for this kind of princely brother-in-law, going straight to the point was enough for some things, and there is no need to go into the specifics to be more understandable.

Please read this at kitchennovel dot com ~

After the Mid-Autumn Festival, the weather grew colder day by day. The season was entering late autumn. The leaves in the courtyard yellowed and, when the north wind sauntered by, the ground was covered in gold litter.

Fu Qiuning, Aunt Yu and Yu Jie were busy sweeping the courtyard. They were taking advantage of the sunny weather to clean up the leaves. Otherwise, if left alone, the next bout of rain would come and the leaves would turn a muddy brown after being stepped on a few times.

"Ahh, I'm about to die from excess anger! I had just finished sweeping, but more leaves just fell where I had swept!" Yu Jie shook her fist at the falling leaves dancing in the wind.

Fu Qiuning cast a glance at her. "You've been here for so many years, but you are still such a basket case. You complain about the falling leaves now, why don't you keep your mind on your favourite season? Think of how pretty the trees would look come spring? You admire the blooms but complain when they shed a few leaves. In life, you gain some and lose some. Don't tell me you don't understand this even now? Very well, let us sweep this bit and stop for now. If it rains, it rains. There's only so much we can do."

"That's right, it's about time to cook too," Aunt Yu looked up and smiled. "Steward Jin sent a rack of ribs over at noon today. This servant had set some aside to be salted. The rest would be stewed in a large cauldron with autumn kidney beans picked just this morning. Young Master and Young Miss love this dish most."

Yu Jie laughed and said, "Now that you mention it, I just thought of something. The Young Marquis has come by many times, but he has always missed Aunt Yu's signature dishes. Otherwise, I'm afraid he might wish to stay here and refuse to leave…"

[1] Before she could continue, Fu Qiuning cut in coldly, "You're looking forward to him not leaving? Humph, I shall speak frankly to you now. Whenever he comes by, the things that should be done shall be done. However, not a single speciality dish is allowed on the table."

"Surely there's no need for Madam to be so anxious? The marquisate has cooks whose skills are a hundred times better than ours, right? So, what is there to worry about?" Aunt Yu said with a chuckle. Seeing that most of the leaves have been swept into a pile, she began putting the brooms away and the three ladies returned to the house.

[1] After washing her hands, Fu Qiuning went to the courtyard door and looked outside. She murmured, "Why aren't Feng'er and Jiao'er back yet? Surely they are not being held back by their teachers?"

[1] As if to defy her words, Feng'er and Jiao'er came pattering up the garden path. Fu Qiuning quickly stepped out to greet them. When the children spotted her, their running turned into happy skipping as they seemed to bounce along the path towards her. "Mother! Today's wind is quite strong, luckily we listened to you and brought our cloaks with us. Many other students were so cold they scattered back home as soon as class was over like dogs being let out for the first time."

Jing Changjiao recalled the appearance of those male schoolmates and laughed again. She said, "I'm afraid the girls were the most pitiful. Boys could still run, but the girls still have to maintain their ladylike steps. Fortunately, I wore plenty of layers, but once we are inside the garden, I started running when brother rushed ahead too, hahaha…"

"You wild little girl, you still know what it means to be ladylike?" [1] Fu Qiuning laughed as she took their hands and led them into the house. She said to the maids, "Let's have a few more stove fires and warm up the house. Otherwise, their hands will tremble at school tomorrow when they try to write."

Then, she turned to the twins, "Quick, come onto the kang bed, we started a fire earlier and it should be nice and warm now. It's fine, Aunt Yu. I shall take care of them, you go and prepare the meal. The sky darkens quickly in this season. Yu Jie, close the courtyard door."

Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao quickly took off their shoes and climbed onto the kang. A satin quilt had been spread over the kang and the twins huddled under it. It was very toasty under the quilt, and their frozen feet, buttocks and legs suddenly felt much more comfortable. When they saw Fu Qiuning pouring tea while squatting on the ground, the twins called out, "Mother, we don't need tea. Come up here too, the floor is cold."

"No matter how cold it gets, it's still nothing like winter," Fu Qiuning said with a smile as she brought two cups of hot tea over. "Refrain from eating snacks, alright? Aunt Yu is in the kitchen stewing beans and pork rib. We shall have a good dinner tonight."

[1] When Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiraou heard this, they cheered.

[1] As Fu Qiuning stood by the bed looking at the happy twins, she thought: It would be nice if the days continue to pass like this. There is enough to eat and clothes to keep warm. I have two children under my care, and I can watch as they slowly grow and bloom into handsome and beautiful youths. This is the most gorgeous thing in the world. A peaceful life. A simple life. For the rest, I have no need of them.

"The courtyard gate is closed. I believe the Young Marquis will not stop by either," Yu Jie had entered the room, shivering. "It's much colder now than when we swept the yard. Madam should have a look outside. If it gets any colder, it might as well be winter. I shall start the fire in the kitchen and prepare more wood and charcoal."

Fu Qiuning nodded and Yu Jie went off. The north wind howled, and the sound was similar to the cries of a ghost. As she sat by the edge of the kang bed, the twins took out their books and got started on their homework. There was really nothing much to do, merely copying out some large characters and dictions in small letters. For 9-year-olds, their calligraphy could be considered not bad. After lavishing some praise for their work, she asked if anything interesting happened at school.

Jin Changjiao was quick to reply, she hastily said, "Mother, Teacher told us to bring a qin to class tomorrow. We have been focussing on art and painting lately but we are to learn more about the qin from now on. I don't know if brother's side would be learning the qin too. We only have one at home, what if both of us need it?"

"That certainly is a problem. If we can't manage it, we'll just have to buy another one," said Fu Qiuning thoughtfully.

[1] Jin Changfeng shook his head, "No need, the boys' side emphasis more on the book of sages as well as essays. We won't need to use the qin, let sister use it. Only, it's rather old now, I'm afraid that sister will be teased by the other girls."

Jin Changjiao puffed out her chest, "I'm not afraid. They laughed at me today, but I ignored them. As mother said, I am the eldest sister. As the eldest, I should let go when I should, and retaliate with oblique attacks when appropriate. After all, they are only girls and would not raise their fists. Today, a few of those young ladies haughtily 'Pointed at the mulberry tree while cursing the locust tree', but all have been soundly retaliated by me. They were all so angry their eyes nearly popped out of their heads. They were even seen by the teacher, who scolded them for their unladylike behaviour. Teacher also praised me for my poise, hahaha!"

Fu Qiuning and Jin Changfeng also laughed.

[1] Jin Changfeng said, "Something odd happened today. I do not know who instigated Little Brother Zhenyi, but he seems to be trying his best to make life difficult for me. Twice, three times, he kept making peculiar noises and saying weird things at me, but I ignored him. During our rest period, he would try and make hidden moves to attack me, but, remembering Mother's words, I found a seat closer to the teacher. After that, he seemed to have calmed down a bit. Though the rest of them like to ridicule me, none of them was quite as bold as today."

When he was done speaking, Jin Changjiao piped up, "Right? Right? Today, Xiuru and Xiuzhen were also the same. Though they were never nice, they had not been this excessive before…" Suddenly, she grabbed Fu Qiuning's sleeves and cried, "Mother, do you think there is some sort of scheme?"

Fu Qiuning's smile was indifferent, "Whether there is a scheme or not, so long as the two of you remain apathetic and maintain your present indifference, it will be enough. Jiao'er is a girl and the rest are also girls. They would only attack with their words and not their fists. As for Feng'er's class… You say that Zhenyi targeted you? That should be Concubine Xu's son, right? How odd, there are no grudges between us, moreover, she is merely a concubine. If Jiang Wanying hates me, that is as it should be. After all, I had taken away her position as the official wife. Only, this Xu'shi, just why did she stick her neck out for Jiang'shi? Have they united their forces against me?"

"Mother, there's no need to worry. As you've said, we shall 'Block the soldiers as earth blocks water' and maintain our indifference. Mother should know your son's character, I am not someone who can be incited with just words," said Jin Changfeng.

[1] Fu Qiuning nodded, "You are right. However, boys could be more impulsive and reckless. If Zhenyi is anything like his mother, I'm afraid he will also be strong-willed and reckless. If he does initiate a fight, do not fight back, find a way to escape. Be sure not to take a loss. There is no point fighting fools made use by others to fight their battles. It is not worth dirtying your hands with them. The most important thing is to protect yourself, understand?"

Jin Changfeng nodded, "Yes, this son understands. It was not easy to survive with Mother until today. Now that I can finally enter school, this son is already overjoyed. I will study hard and make full use of my time at school and live up to Mother and Father's expectations. Mother, look, see if my writing has improved? The teacher praised me for paying attention in class, he also said my writing is quite good."

[1] "Is that so? Come, let mother have a look," Fu Qiuning said. She happily picked up the piece of paper and studied it by a nearby lamp. She nodded approvingly, "Yes, you have certainly improved, no wonder the teacher praised you. Was it Scholar Lin?"

[1] When Jin Changfeng nodded, she felt prouder and happier than before.

Mother and children were happily chatting together when, over the whistling of the north wind, there was the sound of repeated knocking. Also, they seemed to hear someone shouting to be let in… however, the wind was so strong that it could not be heard clearly.

"That sounds like Steward Jin's voice," said Jin Changfeng.

[1] Fu Qiuning nodded, there was a confused look on her face as she muttered, "That's odd, it is already so late, why would the steward stop by? You two stay here, Mother will go take a look."

[1] With that, she took a slightly worn cloak off the hanger by the door, slung it about her shoulders and made her way to the door.

When she reached the courtyard, she could hear the noise of people outside. Looks like Jin Ming was not alone. Even more baffled, Fu Qiuning hastily opened the door and was greeted by Jin Fengju's livid face, behind him was a line of shivering people with things clutched in their hands.

"Closing the door as soon as it gets dark? That's even earlier than our marquisate," Jin Fengju dodged around her and entered the courtyard.

[1] He was followed by Jin Ming, who directed the line of people behind him, "Come in, come in."

"What is happening?" Fu Qiuning was confused. She ignored Jin Ming's activities and followed after Jin Fengju. His face was nearly blue.

"Happening? Nothing's happening, ah." Jin Fengju tilted his head to study her, "What is wrong with you? Your complexion is unsightly."

Fu Qiuning nearly rolled her eyes to the sky. She muttered, "Clearly Lord Husband's face is a hundred times more unsightly than mine, but you still dare to ask me? I look like this because I was shocked by your unsightly face. It's normally quite good-looking, but why is it so blue now? Did something happen?"

"Oh, this, ah?" Jin Fengju smiled and pointed at himself. "Did you not notice that I did not even have a cloak on? My face is frozen. Today is unexpectedly cold, ah. It's not even winter yet, but it felt like we are on the 3rd or 9th day into winter."

Fu Qiuning sighed with relief, she really did not know whether to laugh or cry, ah. She thought: Frozen? Your face is frozen by the wind? Serves you right for wearing so little! However, she put a touch of concern in her voice as she said, "Why did you leave without even a cloak? The Madam has always been attentive to your needs. Are you so confident with your martial arts that you refused to wear extra clothes?"

"It was not so cold earlier today. We have all been negligent." Jin Fengju said. He turned to see the boy servants standing around, wondering where to put their load, so he said to Jin Ming, "There is no shortage of empty rooms here, have them move the things into rooms closest to the kitchen for easier access."

"What things? Why so many?" Fu Qiuning tried to look but it was dark enough to require lanterns and she could not tell what the servants were carrying.

"It is getting colder. I believe you must not have prepared enough firewood here and brought some. You may use these first. More than 10,000 catties of firewood had been brought into the marquisate and distributed to other rooms. Yours is the only one that's been left out. There are some good quality silver charcoal [2], ordinary charcoal and some firewood. I estimate they should last you two or three months. If you don't have enough, I can bring more."

[1] He rubbed his hands together, "Enough, enough, no need to look, let them put those things away. I am half-frozen, let's get in quickly." He was about to usher her away when he suddenly stopped, as though just remembered something and called out to Jin Ming, "Bring the qin to me. Once the boys have moved everything in, you may send them back."

"This servant understands, Master," Jin Ming replied respectfully. Then, he had two servant boys come forward, each with a cloth-wrapped item in their arms. Jin Fengju scooped up the items and Fu Qiuning quickly rushed forward to open the door for him. She smiled and said, "I have no idea if you possessed supernatural hearing, but Feng'er and Jiao'er just happened to inform me today that they would need to bring a qin to school. Unexpectedly, you brought two qins over this evening. Tell me now, just when did you find out?"

Jin Fengju laughed, "I possess no supernatural hearing. Yesterday, I happened to hear Xiuzhen playing the qin at Clear Soft Pavilion. She informed me that the school will be focussing on the music arts soon and I recalled there is only the one cheap qin in your study. How could my beloved children bring such a battered instrument to school? Therefore, I had Jin Ming buy a couple from town. Though it is not from some famous maker, they are still high-quality goods. The instrument makers are often commissioned by the Imperial Palace to make musical instruments and dare not fool me. Anyway, do take one of them off me. Really now, can you not just help me of your own accord?"

As they spoke, they stepped across the threshold.

When the children heard voices coming from outside, though one of them sounded a lot like their father's, they had assumed it was merely a trick of the north wind. Still, they got off the kang bed and approached the reception room. They happened to see their mother and father come in together, each holding a cloth-wrapped guqin. The children rushed over with happy shouts. Jin Fengju placed the qin on a table and picked them up, kissing both enthusiastically on the cheeks. Then, he showed off his skills on the qin, the struck strings rippling with melodies like clear flowing water. Fu Qiuning was somewhat familiar with musical instruments and knew from the sound produced that these two qins were good things, the sound quality being quite excellent.

"Father, you are so cold. Come sit on the kang," the children immediately fell in love with the guqin, so much that they were reluctant to part with them. Finally, they remembered their very cold father, who was still standing around, and coaxed him to the kang bed. They leapt onto the bed and said, "Mother placed a silk blanket on the kang, it's very comfortable to sit on.

"Alright, alright," Jin Fengju took off his shoes and climbed onto the kang. When the children pulled the blanket over him, he sighed comfortably. He smiled at Fu Qiuning and said, "This is very nice. You certainly know how to live well. While I worked hard outside, rushing about for fear that you would be shivering in this house, bringing charcoals and other necessary things, it turns out that you are all warm and toasty here."

Fu Qiuning smiled, "It is all thanks to your timely help. If you had not come, I'm afraid we will all freeze in the next few days." She deliberately did not mention how she had spent her winters in the previous years. Jin Fengju wisely did not bring it up either. Instead, she said, "That's right, since you have fallen for the kang's charms, should I assume that you will not return?"

"I have never seen such a cruel wife as you. The outside is freezing and I have just sent charcoal over, but you still wish to drive me out? Why don't you ask your conscience and judge for yourself whether it is right to do this to me?" Jin Fengju widened his eyes as he mock-glared at Fu Qiuning. "If it had been anyone else, on such a day, I would have stormed off in a huff. You are the only one who would push me away like this."

Fu Qiuning thought: I am not one of your soft-headed wives or concubines. Have you forgotten your vow to me? Why are you comparing me with those idiots so much lately? She did her best to uncrease her brows to smile indifferently, "How can it be? The night is so cold, as you said, though it is not yet midwinter, it is on the verge of freezing the surface of the water. Besides, I also worry that your wives and concubines will resent me for mistreating you and making you angry. Since that is the case, please remain here."

Since Jin Fengju had already made himself at home on the kang bed, she refused to even approach it. Instead, she settled herself on the small bench by the kang. Fortunately, there was a thick cushion on it, and though it was not as warm as the kang itself, it was not cold either.

"Just come up on the kang. Don't tell me you're afraid I'll eat you? We are still husband and wife in name, what is there to be afraid of?" Jin Fengju sneered. Privately, he was even more annoyed. He thought: Must she be guarded to this degree? It is as though we are two unrelated people. She refuses to show even the slightest gap in her defences. Aih, so what if everyone said that I am lovable? Those are merely words from unrelated people.

"The kang is quite crowded, you three can sit there," said Fu Qiuning with an indifferent smile.

Suddenly, there was a burst of laughter from the outside and Yu Jie's voice was heard over the pattering of her running feet, "Madam! Come and look! The Master sent a lot of firewood and charcoal! Good heavens, ah. I have never seen such good charcoal. Steward Jin said there are more than 200 catties of the something something silver thing charcoal! The regular charcoal is of the best type too, and the firewood. That's right, the firewood…" the young maid, who had been shouting at the top of her voice suddenly felt something was off and, when she turned around, spotted Jin Fengju smiling at her from the kang bed. He was looking at her with amusement in his eyes.

Yu Jie seemed to have suffered a sudden voice blockage. Her mouth remained open but nothing came out. She floundered about for a long time before suddenly throwing herself down into a kneeling position and whispered, "Th-this maid… this maid had not known that Master is here. Thought… thought that only Steward Jin had brought charcoal over and… and… that is, dinner would soon be ready. This maid should go check it…"

Suddenly, she flung herself out of the room, speeding away as though she had oiled her shoes.

Jin Fengju laughed out loud. He shook his head, "People say that the servants resemble their masters. However, this maid of yours, why has she not absorbed even half of your prudence or dignity? Only Aunt Yu has a calm temperament."

Fu Qiuning smiled, "Yu Jie had been bought and sold by human traffickers ever since she was a child and had travelled all over the country. Her temperament has always been a little wild. I find her lively and interesting, not at all like Aunt Yu, who, though still young, acted like someone on the verge of death, without even the slightest bit of vitality."

Then, she waved her hand and said, "Well, enough about that. You called me prudent and dignified, but how could I be compared to Aunt Yu? Speaking of which, I have something I wish to speak to you about. I do believe that it is something that would require your permission."

Jin Fengju sniffed. He thought: You just keep being stubborn. I wish to nourish and pamper you, but you refuse to appreciate my care.

Because of this, he felt a little disillusioned. Lowering his head, he said casually, "What is the matter? Just say it."

Fu Qiuning glanced at the twins, "You are both nicely warmed up now, right? Go to the kitchen and see if Aunt Yu is done with dinner. I need to speak with your father."

The two children hopped off the kang and headed for the kitchen.

Fu Qiuning waited for the children to be out of sight before saying, "I believe Aunt Yu is not yet 30 years old. It's a pity for her to be a widow for the rest of her life. It's better to find a good household for her to marry into so that she has a family to depend on for the rest of her life. She had told me in the past that Mother Zhang's son, the gatekeeper at one corner of the inner court, has a good personality and was her childhood friend.

They had a good relationship with each other and expected to marry before her parents sold her off to be the [2] succeeding wife of a wealthy landowner. In less than a year, she was driven out of the house by a powerful mother-in-law. Fortunately, you bought her as a slave. Otherwise, according to her, she would have no place to stand. Now that it has come to this, how about we fulfil the destiny of this pair of lovers? For her sake, Mother Zhang's son never married. If it had been anyone else, I'm afraid there would be no such faithfulness.

Unfortunately, [3] it turned out that though she had been driven out, the landowner never bothered to give her a letter of divorce. Though she wished for it, would the landowner ever agree if we try to ask for it? However, as the noble Young Marquis, surely if you were to only speak out, an old landlord who does not even have the right to lift your shoes would quickly hand over the divorce letter? What do you think?"

[3] Back then, when Jin Fengju was in the middle of hating the laundress with delusions of becoming the mother of noble children, he had been stomping the streets when he encountered the helpless and beautiful Aunt Yu searching for help. He did not ask after her background and brought her back into the inner court under the excuse of serving the children. In reality, he was using Aunt Yu to taunt the greedy and power-seeking woman. Aunt Yu was afraid of being kicked out once more and told everyone that she was a divorced woman.

The lie lasted until two years ago when Fu Qiuning warm-heartedly tried to match her with Third Brother Zhang. That was when she had no choice but to reveal the truth of her "still married" status.

Fu Qiuning was angry at the old landlord for being unjust and selfish. The old man planned to take Aunt Yu back to his household after his mother died and refused to give the letter of divorce. However, she was also helpless and had a hard time trying to survive and make ends meet in this place, so where would she find the energy to care about other people's affairs?

Thus, the matter dragged on. Only, poor Third Brother Zhang was also dragged along as he continued to pine for Aunt Yu. Although Aunt Yu also adored him, she had been poisoned by the feudal principles of this world and refused to even consider the idea of being intimate with anyone but her true husband. Thus, after having been kicked out of the landlord's house, she resigned herself to her fate, her heart like a dead tree. She only cared for the twins and never gave another thought to love affairs.

When Jin Fengju heard this story, he leaned against the pillow and smiled at her. He shook his head and said, "You are truly insincere. For the sake of putting me in a good mood, you praised me to the heavens and stepped on that landowner into the ground. How could matters be as easy as you say?" even as he spoke, he quickly began to click at a small abacus in his heart.

In fact, this was naturally a very easy matter for him to solve. A simple landowner, so long as he send someone with enough authority, he did not even have to appear to make the man cough out the letter of divorce. After all, the fault was on the man's side in the first place. It was not like he was forcefully splitting up a pair of lovebirds. What's more, as a high-ranking official, let alone a mere rich merchant, even Fifth Rank Prefects were not worth his attention. However, this matter was something close to Fu Qiuning's heart. She wishes to play the matchmaker and fulfil her maid's heart's desires, but, who would fulfil his heart's desire?

Jin Fengju thought: No, matters should not be done so quickly. Perhaps I can hold this as a bargaining chip in my hand for some great benefit in the future.

Thus, having made up his mind, he left Fu Qiuning with doubts and suspicion in her mind. He placated her by saying that now was not the time and that there were other matters in place. In the end, since Fu Qiuning could not do anything about it, she could only leave the matter alone for the time being.

Suddenly, the door was pushed open, and in came Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao. Both of them were all smiles as they said, "Father, dinner is ready. Father, let's eat together."

Jin Fengju slid off the kang to smile brightly at Fu Qiuning, "Since you have no idea I was coming today, I wonder what has been prepared? Surely it's not some pickles and radish sticks? How could I bear it?"

Jin Changjiao laughed and said, "No, no, Aunt Yu had stewed some beans with pork ribs. It's very delicious. Father never had that before."

"Yi? Is that so? We haven't even reached the dining room yet, but I can already smell it," said Jin Fengju as he pushed past the door into the dining room. On the middle of the table was a large steaming bowl. Looks like the fragrant aroma came from there. He smiled at Fu Qiuning, "With the weather getting colder, there's no need to be strict about the rules. Let's just move this table to your room and eat. It will be warmer there."

Seeing that Fu Qiuning did not answer, Aunt Yu hastily smiled and said, "The dining room is close to the kitchen and is very warm. Although the weather is cold, it is meal time now and eating by the kang might be too hot. Young Marquis, please take a seat."

Ever since they received the charcoal, Yu Jie and Aunt Yu were both filled with obvious joy and were even more respectful and loving towards Jin Fengju. When Fu Qiuning saw their fawning visage, anger filled her heart. She seethed: So, I see that your loyalty could be had for a few hundred catties of charcoal.

Just then, Jin Ming also came in. Whenever Jin Fengju ate here, he would not observe the usual etiquette, therefore, Jin Ming would sit with Yu Jie and Aunt Yu at a separate low table and eat together with the masters. After a single bite, he smiled and complimented, "These kidney beans have been nicely stewed, the ribs fragrant but not greasy. I had no idea that Aunt Yu had such skills."

Aunt Yu's reply was a few words of modest denial. Jin Fengju laughed and said, "Jin Ming, you only know this now? On regular days, they kept back the good things and only served us some rotten food. Because they were sure we would not turn up today, they made a spread for themselves. How heartbreaking, ah."

"How could you say that? To even use the word 'heartbreaking'." Fu Qiuning snorted, "You're the one who doesn't know how good you have it. On days we know you're coming, we would do our best to make dishes that are considered elegant, only to be scolded as bland or worthless. Instead, you ate our poor crude dishes with relish. Well, since that is the case, we shall not worry about making good food for you anymore. We shall just casually throw a few things into one or two big pots and consider it a meal."

"Did your best?" Jin Fengju smiled. "To think you were so attentive to me? I never knew, ah. Here I thought you never gave a thought to me and purposefully served me poor meals to discourage me from coming. Well, well, looks like it's all a misunderstanding on my side." As he spoke, he turned sharp eyes at Fu Qiuning, [1] hoping to catch some undercurrent emotions from her playful words when suddenly, he felt a little choked up.

Above the smiling mouth, Fu Qiuning's thoughts might as well be displayed over her head: You're right, ah. I hope you never darken my doorway again.

[1] However, the words never left her lips, nor did she refute his statement. Instead, she merely lowered her head and began eating. The lack of denial served as her answer.

Although Jin Fengju felt a little depressed by her reaction, he had already half-expected this reaction. Therefore, he did not bring up the matter again.

"Father, do try the potatoes. They are this year's new potatoes, the freshest. They have been stewed with the beans and are very delicious." Perhaps sensing the awkward atmosphere between her parents, Jin Changjiao tried to diffuse it by changing the topic. She held out a piece of potato to Jin Fengju with her chopsticks.

"My good daughter is the one who loves Father most," Jin Fengju patted her cheek and took a bite of the potato. He nodded, "This is indeed very good. These are new potatoes? Have you sent any to the Old Ancestor?"

Fu Qiuning smiled, "Don't take Jiao'er's nonsense to heart. You cannot even tell the difference between the five grains. These potatoes have been dug up a few months before the sweet potatoes. It has already been kept for so long, how could they be considered new potatoes? Furthermore, I have already sent a basket of these regular potatoes along with the basket of sweet potatoes to Old Ancestor's place. I don't have much left."

Jin Fengju nodded, "I see, that's right. The other day when I went to give my greetings to the Old Ancestor, she often reminisced about you. She probably hopes that you would come by and chat with her. Tomorrow morning, you should go and give your greetings to her."

"Can I not go?" was Fu Qiuning's answer after a long silence. Recent incidents had frightened her. She felt as though she was being pulled inexorably towards a giant vortex. She wanted to stay away from that vortex, but somehow, some kind of force was pushing her forward, as though it would not rest until she had fallen into the pit.

"What do you think?" Jin Fengju's chopsticks stopped moving. His expression was calm. When he did not smile, he exuded a firm and powerful aura that was all self-control and no anger. It made people want to surrender and worship him.

"I understand," Fu Qiuning sighed. She lowered her head and continued eating. Jin Fengju smiled slightly. He moved his chopsticks and picked up a piece of sparerib.

After dinner, the tables and chairs were cleared away. Fu Qiuning sent the children to the study with Aunt Yu and Yu Jie and turned to look quietly at Jin Fengju. She said, "Do you remember? Your promise to me, that I could stay away from the world in Night Breeze Pavilion?"

Jin Fengju's smile was faint, "I promised to let you stay within Night Breeze Pavilion and to protect you for the rest of my life. However, I never promised to let you stay away from the world. Qiuning, this is, after all, the Jin Marquisate. Night Breeze Pavilion is not your private paradise. You cannot keep staying away from everything. Naturally, I am willing to give you my protection, however, even I cannot control every element. If an accident were to happen, well. Moreover, the food you ate and the fuel you use came from my Jin Marquisate, is that not right?"

Fu Qiuning gave him a bitter smile. "There is no need for you to remind me. I know very well that I depend on you for many things, and therefore should perform certain acts for you. However, there is one thing I do not understand. The Old Ancestor is one thing, she is an old lady and a senior in this house and therefore would act wilful or confused at times. However, you struck me as an intelligent person. Do you enjoy the strife and secret fights between your wives and concubines? Is your life not lively enough? Still want me to take part?"

[3] "No need to worry when lice multiplied," Jin Fengju sighed heavily. He picked up his teacup and took a sip of the fragrant tea. "It's because there is no lack of hidden battles. After all, it's not like things will change if you are involved. Moreover, since you live in such a location, what kind of struggle could you get into? It's not like they could come here every single day to cross verbal swords with you. Even if they wish to do so, they would need to make time for it, ah."

Even as he said this, he privately sneered: Qiuning, what are you saying? The Old Madam, confused? Hahahah, this is your biggest mistake. There is no one more shrewd than the Old Ancestor. You pitiful girl. She already saw through my desire to not let you stay long in Night Breeze Pavilion. However, you are blind to her schemes. That's right, if the Old Ancestor is the 'Bystander that sees clearly', you are the one who 'Could not see the forest for the trees'.

He was still privately snickering to himself when Fu Qiuning sighed. "Of course, I'm not afraid of them coming here to bother me. Even if they do, what do I care about some verbal abuse? I only… what of the children? They leave the courtyard to attend the clan school every day. I… I worry that they would be bullied…"

"Naturally, I shall pay attention to the children's affairs. There's no need to worry about a thing," Jin Fengju waved his hand dismissively, obviously making it clear that this was not a topic he wished to discuss anymore.

[1] Fu Qiuning sighed again. She thought about it, but in the end, decided against bringing up the matter of Jin Zhenyi and the other children's odd behaviour. It would just make Jin Fengju think she was worrying over nothing.

Just then, Aunt Yu came out to inform them that the kitchen had been tidied up.

[1] Jin Fengju turned to Jin Ming, "Alright, there aren't many warm rooms in this place. You should return to your room and rest. I don't need you to serve me tonight." With that, he returned to the room with Fu Qiuning and the children, leaving Aunt Yu to send Jin Ming out.

[1] After Jin Ming had left and the door to the room closed, he rubbed his hands together and giggled, "On nights like this, it's best to have only family members together. Qiuning, ever since that last time, I have been thinking of your opera songs for days. I've been itching for a song. Come, sing a few verses for us."

Fu Qiuning thought: Who said he was sending charcoal? This is clearly borrowing an excuse to listen to opera.

[1] For a moment, she felt both crossed and amused. Even the twins, taking a cue from their father, begged her to sing as well. Helpless, she could only say, "Fine, since it is still early, I shall sing a few verses for you. However, after that, we must all go to bed obediently, alright?"

The twins quickly agreed. Fu Qiuning flipped through her repertoire, wondering what to sing, when Aunt Yu suddenly said, "How about the husband and wife returning home together? I like that one."

When Jin Fengju enthusiastically asked what that opera was about, Qiuning gave him a brief summary of the story about Dong Yang and the Seventh Fairy [2]. He sighed to himself before laughingly saying, "I really don't understand how that old woman gets her songs from. To rearrange such an ordinary folk song into an opera. Well, I am very interested now. Quickly sing a few verses for me."

Fu Qiuning took a sip of tea to moisten her throat. Fearing that she would not be able to resist performing along with her songs, she sat still in her chair and sang:

"The birds in the tree sit in pairs,

Green waters and mountains smiled…"

That night, the north wind howled like crying ghosts and wailing wolves in the courtyard. However, within the building, the atmosphere was warm and cosy as the occupants basked with rapt attention at Fu Qiuning's singing. She sang for a good hour before finally stopping. The children were already dozing in Jin Fengju's arms. When she stopped, she had Yu Jie and Aunt Yu escort the children to their rooms before quietly asking Jin Fengju, "Do you have court tomorrow? What time do you need to be called?"

"His Majesty is not well, therefore morning court will rest for a day. I don't have to be there either. For those with important national affairs, they may go straight to the imperial study to make their reports." Jin Fengju turned to look straight at Fu Qiuning. "That's right, I heard that your second uncle's di-daughter will be marrying into Prince Lie's harem as a concubine. Looks like Prince Hong and Prince Lie are about to join forces soon. What do you think of this?"

Fu Qiuning did not even bother to pretend to have any interest. Instead, she pushed the quilt away and said indifferently, "Those two are meat devouring wolves, what's the use of uniting? So what if it's a di-daughter? Would it change their wild ambitions or calculative hearts? Tie down their hands and feet? Why is Lord Husband bringing matters like this up again? Surely you do not take this marriage seriously?"

Jin Fengju laughed, "Who says I do not take this matter seriously? Although those two meat-eating wolves would eventually turn against each other, if they united together, no matter how temporarily, they could still bite a cow to death first before turning their fangs on each other. When that happens, regardless of which of the wolves wins, the cow is already dead. So, what does their winning or losing matter to the cow?"

Fu Qiuning straightened herself and gently clapped her hands, smiling at Jin Fengju as she replied, "Indeed, if it is a mere cow, there is no other ending other than being bitten to death. But what if it's not a cow, but a tiger under a cowhide? Even if the two wolves were united, it would be of little use, wouldn't it? These things should be within Lord Husband's expectations. When the time comes, it's just a matter of responding appropriately after watching their movements. So long as Yourself and His Highness Prince Rong show a little restraint, pull the cowhide a little tighter and not reveal the tail, what is there to fear?"

Jin Fengju could not hold back his laughter, shaking his head, he said, "Truly, you have a very nimble and creative mind. However, matters are not as easy as you described. Enough, it is getting late, go to sleep."

His eyes lingered on Fu Qiuning as she left. He only looked away when she had fully disappeared. Sighing with some melancholy, he said to himself, "Tiger? If I am a tiger, you are the sky, right? After meeting you, though you called me a tiger, I cannot even take a bite, ah. Sigh! Is this Heaven's retribution? My punishment for neglecting them before? That should be so. Enough, enough, since this is retribution, I must suffer a few more days of torment before things could turn for the better."

The next day, after Fu Qiuning had woken up and freshened herself for the day, she found Jin Fengju waiting in the front hall. For a moment, she was stunned to see him before remembering last night's orders. She could not help the sigh that escaped her lips. She thought: Looks like I can't flee from greeting the Old Ancestor today. Look, that instigator is standing right there waiting for me.

Thus, she could only turn around and change her clothes to something more suitable, put her hair up into a bun with a hairpin and paste decorative [1] flowers on her temples as part of her formal makeup routine. She also dressed up the children properly, making sure to inform them, "Today, we shall give our greetings to the Old Ancestor with your father. Be on your best behaviour and observe the proper manners."

The two children answered affirmatively in unison. Jin Changjiao smiled and added, "Surely Mother need not remind us thus? We have always behaved well. The Old Ancestor also likes me and Brother very much. She has always been very warm and friendly."

As they talked, they arrived at the front room and saw Jin Fengju looking at the pots of gold-edged hydrangea and chrysanthemums on the windowsill. These were the special rare chrysanthemums that had been brought in just the other day. When Jin Fengju saw them, he smiled and said, "The chrysanthemums have bloomed until today. That's rather rare." He went forward with a pair of scissors and trimmed off a half-open flower. With another smile, he pinned the half-open chrysanthemum into Qiuning's hair, "You dressed too plainly most days. Today, even with just a single flower, your whole person appeared quite gorgeous. Do not worry, this flower does not lessen your dignity."

Since he had said so, Fu Qiuning was also helpless to refute and could only nod. They all followed Jin Fengju to Health & Longevity Court.

About a hundred steps away from Night Breeze Pavilion, the Yong Cui Garden, which had been a bright and flourishing place in summer, had now withered. There was nothing left of the blooming trees and bushes except for the decaying grass and fallen leaves.

Fu Qiuning observed the bleak scenery, remembering the morning of the day she transmigrated. In this ancient marquisate, survival alone was already difficult. Right now, she had to face an even more difficult road ahead. Moreover, she had no idea what kind of plans were brewing inside the head of the man beside her. Though he looked playful and sincere on the surface, she knew that he was deeply calculative inside. Suddenly overwhelmed by the scene, she gave a long, drawn-out sigh.

"What's wrong? Have the colours of deep autumn made you melancholic?" Jin Fengju, who was walking in front, turned back his head and asked, "You women are like this. What is there to be sad about? Even though the grass and trees withered with the season, once the next spring breeze arrives, the branches and leaves will flourish once again. As the saying goes, "Rosy cheeks age quickly"[2] but as for those these trees have wilted now, they will bloom again year after year. Aren't they much better than us?"

"What kind of argument is this?" She often heard people talking about "rosy cheeks age easily" and "flowers wilt and bloom", and then becoming depressingly sad. However, this was the first time she heard the sayings being used like this. Jin Fengju's determination and optimism could clearly be heard in his words.

"This is my, Jin Fengju's, argument," Jin Fengju raised his head haughtily. "Only, though rosy cheeks easily age and are incomparable to the renewable bloom of the grass and trees, without the ever-changing thoughts of people, how could grass and trees be compared to us? People possess desires, joy, anger and sorrow. In short, though their lives may be long, their existences are dull and strict."

Fu Qiuning replied, "I do not know what Lord Husband intends to say. One moment, you sigh that people are not as good as wood, in the next breath, you sigh that wood is not as good as people. It appears that neither wood nor people live up to your expectations."

Jin Fengju shook his head vigorously and retorted, "In life, eight or nine times out of ten, things would not go the way you wish. It is the same with all things in this world. There is not a single perfect thing in life. Since that is the case, why should we focus our sights on those defects and regrets? Is it not better to set our eyes on things that make us happy? To not be too proud to accept good times and be not discouraged during the bad times? That way, we could live our few decades of life happily. What do you think?"

Fu Qiuning could not help laughing out loud, "Isn't this merely a glass-half-full outlook [3]? Yet, Lord Husband managed to turn it into a sermon about the great truth of life. This humble woman can only be ashamed for being Lord Husband's inferior.

Jin Fengju asked curiously, "What is this "glass-half-full outlook'? Tell me."

Fu Qiuning choked, knowing that she had let something unintended slip by her lips. However, it was too late to take it back, so she could only smile and say, "Back in the day, that old mother told me how she had once encountered a senior monk in her early years. She asked the senior monk for advice on how to face life's difficulties. The senior monk happened to be drinking water at that time.

The monk set the half-empty cup of water down, pointed to it and said, 'A person walking in the desert is dying of thirst when he sees this half-cup of water. Some might say: What a pity, there's only half a cup left. Others might say: Wonderful, there is still half a cup left.

Suffering and happiness exist together in one's heart. A person with a happy heart can still be happy amidst suffering. A sad and bitter heart, however, would still suffer even as it dwells within a golden house, feeds on delicious food, dresses in silks and is served by a harem full of wives and concubines. Nothing would ever be enough for it.

Now that I think of it, I could only pity that old mother now. She could not see through true bitterness and happiness in life until the day she died. I happened to recall the past just now and remembered that saying. I believe that Lord Husband must belong to that second group of people. Whether times are good or bad, Lord Husband would live your days happily. That is a rare thing."

As she spoke, Jin Fengju felt a stirring within his heart, like a breaking storm. However, he maintained a calm smile and said, "What you say is very much correct. Thinking about it, are you not also such a person? Otherwise, how could you have endured six months, let alone six years of loneliness within Night Breeze Pavilion? I remember, back when we first got married, you still sent people to invite me over. From time to time, you also cried and threw tantrums. However, matters between our families were still too tense. I disliked you then and was very strict and severe. Later, when I heard that you hanged yourself, I paid a visit. You have calmed down a lot since that time. Could it be that you recalled this story? Is that why you no longer held on to self-pity and stopped those pointless tantrums?"

Fu Qiuning thought: Since you have provided me with such an excellent excuse to explain my sudden change of behaviour, it would be foolish of me not to take it.

Thus she nodded.

Jin Fengju sighed, "These days, I often think of you as my confidante. Still, I have some misgivings, thinking that we do not see matters eye to eye. However, now that you have said this, I can tell that you are indeed my confidante [a]. As the saying goes, a thousand taels of gold is easy to get, but even a single soulmate is hard to find. I never thought I would be so lucky that my wife would be my only confidante. Only… I don't know whether to call this fortunate, or unfortunate?"

Seeing the two of them talking so harmoniously together, Jin Ming, Aunt Yu and the other people looked at each other with knowing eyes and led the children out first without Fu Qiuning noticing. When confronted by the topic which she least wanted to face, Fu Qiuning quickly looked around to find someone to use as an excuse to get out of this talk, when she noticed that she had been abandoned!

She privately cursed: These blasted opportunists! These swaying grasses that bowed whichever way the wind blew! She had helped and nurtured them for six years, but all of them followed the lead of the steward and deliberately assisted Jin Fengju in forcing her down into a blind alley.

"Whether something is a fortune or misfortune all depends on one's heart. Has Young Marquis forgotten our conversation just now?" Fu Qiuning sighed deeply. She thought: Young Marquis, do you feel that no female creature can escape your charm? How many times do you plan to test me? Though I restrained myself from striking out too viciously due to your status and kindness, my meaning should still be clear, right?

Since you are supposed to be clever, you should not keep striking blindly at a wall, right? However, now that matters have come this far, I should just make things clear to you. After all, several hundred catties of charcoal and firewood are already in my hands. Surely you would not be so shameless as to take them away if I reject you, right?

As expected, Jin Fengju relentlessly continued, "Indeed, I tell my heart not to care, but the ignorant are happy. Such is human nature. For certain things, if one does not attempt to lay claim to it, how would one know that it could not be had? If the goal could be reached with some extra effort, but was given up at the first adversary, would it not be a pity?"

Fu Qiuning's steps slowed and halted. She smiled a smile that was not a smile at Jin Fengju. As for Jin Fengju, he matched it with a burning stare that was so bright that it illuminated his whole face. The two gazes met. The meaning behind those gazes was too profound and difficult to untangle by outsiders.

A long moment later, Fu Qiuning started walking again. She slowly said, "This humble woman's heart is like an ancient well, not even the howling winds could cause any waves. Cold tea can be easily heated back up, but spilt water is difficult to retrieve. Young Marquis, if through effort, you can climb and pick what you want, of course, you should work hard. But to pour your life's work, and have it all end in vain, like forcing a dog tail grass to stand as straight and verdant as the green pine, such matters are impossible. Therefore, why bother?"

So… this is the result. In the end, after all that effort, it is still this result. Jin Fengju retracted his gaze from Fu Qiuning's face and said softly, "If I do not strive my hardest, how could I say that it is impossible? I believe in the principle of 'Cracking open the golden core' [4]." Without waiting for Fu Qiuning's reply, he hastily continued, "We have left Yong Cui Garden, look, Feng'er and Jiao'er are waiting for us."

Fu Qiuning sighed again. So, matters have come to this. She had finally determined Jin Fengju's intention. Short of holding her hand and declaring, 'Qiuning, I love you, I want to possess you', he had done pretty much everything else to make his intentions clear. If not for that rash and arrogant promise back then, this male would probably not have lowered himself so much to achieve his desire. She was already his wife in name. If he were to just utter his intention, she did not even have a toe to stand on in this era. Fortunately, thankfully, he had made that arrogant promise back then, sure of his own indifference and assured that all women would fall at his feet. As an arrogant and proud man of his word, there is no need to fear him going back on his word.

Qiuning, I know, you still resent me, right? It is this terrible resentment that transformed your heart into an ancient well where the waters would not ripple. While it is true that six years could wilt a woman's affection, I shall spend the next six years watering your heart until it blooms again. If the first six years are not enough, there are still the second and third. In short, I thank the Heavens for allowing us to be husband and wife. So long as I do not divorce you, you are destined to be with me for a lifetime, until death do we part. I do not believe that when I pour out my feelings, I cannot warm up that ice-cold heart of yours.

Gumihou: Bro, this dawg trying to convince our Qiuning girl to forgive him because 'nothing in this world is perfect' and that she should 'focus on the positive now'. In other words, he's trying to convince her to forget about 6 years of mistreatment just because his dick suddenly decided it likes her.

If this is the modern world, time to get that restraining order. Girls, guys, fellow readers, no matter how nice the ML in your life is after years of neglect, DO NOT forgive them. LEAVE! Qiuning has no option here, he's the best of the worst in this horrible patriarchal world. However, you do! Get into your car with your kids and drive far away! Leave the country if you have to!

Also, please note that this novel is a work of fiction. It would be super nice if your formerly neglectful spouse finally looks at you and wants you back and treats you like a queen later. It is up to you to decide, but in Gumi's humble opinion, it's better to just kick this kind of ass to the curb. Kick their faces in while they are down too.

Also, Fu Qiuning going: This is me now