Description
The later generations immensely revered Great Wei's Jianan Emperor. During the period of his reign, Great Wei entered its golden era.
Interestingly, all the records that glorified his accomplishments unanimously agreed that Jianan Emperor had only one flaw in his life: He favored only the imperial noble consort!
Zhou Tong was very annoyed. She time-traveled out of blue, didn't even have time to take a breath, and yet, already had to deal with trouble.
What? The original owner of her body was a walk-on cannon fodder? She couldn't even be regarded as a second female lead?
Zhou Tong is angry! Change, it must change! This plot needs a beautiful turnaround in order to be worthy of this big sister's coquettish personality!
This is a story of the unfortunate time-traveling lass who possessed the body of a reborn aboriginal maiden and became the Great Wei's beloved imperial consort.
Chapter 1
When Zhou Tong woke up, she was lying on the silky bed. The gentle light of candles that passed through the bed curtain was warm and tranquil. As far as one's eyes could reach, everything seemed alien. The furniture and its arrangement were all in the ancient style. Gradually, a ridiculous idea crossed her mind. Just when she attempted to get up, her surroundings unexpectedly started to spin. An intense urge to throw up hit her. Zhou Tong experienced a splitting headache. She had to firmly grasp the silky bedding, stiffening her body and endure.
When discomfort passed, she has once again opened her eyes. Outside the room, a girl's voice could be heard. She appeared to be instructing something. The sound of footsteps was approaching. There was more than one person. Zhou Tong instinctively closed her eyes. She relaxed her body and eased the breath, lying there quietly.
After some time, she felt a soft touch on her forehead. The girl with a rejoice muttered: "Great. The fever is gone. According to the physician, miss should be alright. We just have to wait till tomorrow and then report it to master and madam. They'll be surely happy." She tucked her up and stayed for a while. Afterwards, she instructed people to check up door and windows. Leaving only one candle lit, she and the others exited room.
Zhou Tong could be finally at ease. After sorting out all the miscellaneous thoughts, she immediately got angry: "Damn the bad luck! I'm thousands of miles away from home, with only a small possibility of return!"
This transmigration was bizarre. Not only was her soul forcibly taken away, but it has also gained an enormous benefit.
The original owner of this body was called Mu Xi Yao who was eleven years old. Just a cup of tea's time1 ago she was suffering from a fever. Too bad for her as her body was accidentally snatched by a transmigrating demoness Zhou Tong.
Mu Xi Yao was supposed to pass away in twenty-three years' time, experiencing a tragic end. At the death bed, while being grievously ill and vomiting blood, a deep bud of hatred sprouted inside her. Coincidentally, this triggered the precious jade she had always carried with herself to awaken. This jade pendant had spiritual power to save its owner from the misfortune. In order to fulfill Mu Xi Yao's wish and pacify her malevolent spirit, the jade decided to protect its owner and let her reborn- Thus, it forcibly tore the time-space. Zhou Tong's body couldn't withstand transmigration, so it was crushed in the process and dissipated. Subsequently, Mu Xi Yao's body also suffered a damage, leaving behind just a broken soul.
The spiritual jade pendant decided to merge the soul of its owner at the juncture when it still had time to accomplish her wish. It picked the seriously ill eleven years old little Xi Yao to fulfill the task. However, an unforeseen event happened. The visitor from another world, Zhou Tong, was one step ahead of them and had seized the decisive moment. She successfully KO-ed the little Xi Yao. With little spiritual power left, the jade had no other option than to acknowledge Zhou Tong as its owner. Only by this way, it could save its original owner.
So far, Zhou Tong had acquired all the advantages at the home ground. She possessed Mu Xi Yao's memories and also partially her personality. Thanks to this stroke of luck, she was able to accept her fate.
Alright, Zhou Tong absolutely wasn't aware that she was the strongest transmigrating woman ever. She was the only one able to immediately discard the reborn original owner who was protected by a deity. A true ferocious girl. Lass, how capable must you be?
Zhou Tong was fuming with rage after learning that her previous discomfort and splitting headache were caused by the spiritual jade pendant. She even more disliked the troubles it brought with itself. She felt deeply wronged and was also disappointed by this jade. It couldn't protect its owner nor could it kick her out of the owner's body, so that she could take a return flight to her world! She was left only with a pile of troubles! It was obvious that Zhou Tong's mood was not wonderful at all.
Of course, this woman would never admit that she was just pretending to be mistreated after gaining such a favor.
Suddenly, a thought came to Zhou Tong's mind: if thirty years old Mu Xi Yao carried with herself the spiritual jade, then eleven years old Mu Xi Yao must also have it. While searching her body, she didn't find any accessories that would resemble the jade. She then went to look inside the jewelry box on a dressing table. As expected. One glance was enough for her to recognize it. Among the pile of jewelries, only it was emitting a faint light. The jade pendant was of a small size, beautifully carved and smooth, warm on hands. One could clearly see it has been activated by a spiritual power. She tried to call it out, but it didn't have any response. Even the light it was emitting earlier has vanished. Zhou Tong contemplated, did this treasure self-destruct? Currently, she could only take a good care of this pendant that was possibly her return ticket.
Zhou Tong led a successful life in her world. She fared well in career and even better in relationships. Naturally, she had her own virtues. Despite having a little ego and also being an aojiao2 and idle, she had never made a mistake on important matters. She should behave and accept Mu Xi Yao's identity since she wasn't sure if she could still return back. At the moment, the most important thing was to study those memories of twenty something years from now on. It would be marvelous if she was able to catch the overall context. As she was browsing through the memories, her face turned darker and darker until it was completely black. Her mood sunk into the abyss, even sky appeared gloomy. It was like dense vines were wrapped around her, making her breathing difficult.
It was currently the ninth spring of Great Wei's Zhang He3, Yuanchen emperor's thirty first year of reign.
The current Emperor was the son of Gaozu Emperor and Empress Su. He was doted by Gaozu Emperor, who also personally oversaw his upbringing. He was said to be bright and courageous, especially filial to elders.
When the Emperor was three years old, Empress Su passed away. The Emperor was heartbroken, missing his birth mother. Since then, he became even more filial to his elders. Later, he was given to newly instated empress Jing to raise. Empress Jing was sonless for the whole life. She was very generous and loving toward Emperor Yuenchen.
Accomplished in early age, with great ambitions. After Gaozu Emperor died, as 12 years old he ascended to the throne. With Empress Dowager Jing's full support, he secured imperial court on inside, and defended against barbarians from the outside. Comparing to Gaozu's time, he was even more outstanding. He first recovered three provinces in Jibei, then suppressed the chaos caused by vassal kings. He also opened mathematical schools, elected new laws, and supported agricultural businesses.
Suddenly, Great Wei appeared to be prospering.
Lady Xi Yao of Mu House was the youngest di4 daughter of fifth rank prefect, Mu Jing Zhen. She was deeply favored from birth. First, she had an elder brother Mu Jing Zhi and an elder di sister Mu Xi Cheng who both treasured her. Then, there were a little shu5 sister born to concubine who fawned over her and an especially doting parents and elders. She was practically pampered and spoilt rotten by them all.
Sir Mu cherished his wife, lady Yu. Over the past years, he rarely stepped into his concubine's chambers. Till now, there was only little shu sister's birth mother, concubine Wu left. She was previously lady Yu's dowry maidservant6. All other childless bedchamber maidservants7 and concubines were sent away.
Mu Xi Yao who was brought up in such a harmonious environment lived like a princess. Even though she had a little temper, she was all the more simple-minded and good-natured. Xi Yao was lively and lacked patience to take lessons from the tutor who was invited into the residence to teach her. Therefore, whether it was the poetry, music, needlework or culinary skill, they were all barely presentable. The Mu's household was harmonious, with upright family conducts. It accomplished a pure and warm youth of Mu Xi Yao. It also indirectly caused her to be unable to adapt into a dark and blood-reeking inner yard8. She was incapable of defending herself, not to mention taking a revenge.
House of Mu wasn't prominent nor noble family. Thus, they have never thought of clambering over the dragon and follow the phoenix9.
The eldest daughter was already engaged, waiting to get married.
The younger daughter was very charming and loved to make mischief. Yet, she lacked any talent. Her appearance was just barely considered as delicate. Initially, they intended to pick for her a person from a well-off family after her card was turned down during the selection10. They wanted to find for her a husband who would be considerate and cherish her. They didn't demand him to have a remarkable career. Instead, they sought for steadiness and smoothness, peaceful life, children running around one's knees and being able to enjoy family life.
It was all futile. Heaven family11 held one year ahead the quadrennial selection to choose concubines and secondary spouses for members of imperial family. Yuencheng Emperor ordered all thirteen years old maidens, who weren't yet engaged and came from sixth rank and higher officials' household, to participate in selection process. Mu Xi Yao was unable to escape it. She had to hurry to Shengjing with the status of lady-in-waiting to attend the selection. Because of her plump face and voluptuous figure, she was chosen by consort Shu to be sixth prince's concubine.
Mu Xi Yao's tragedy, hereby, began.
Because of her ordinary appearance, Xi Yao wasn't favored much at first. The sixth prince Zhong Zheng Lin paid no heed to fairer sexes. He was upright and serious, indifferent and silent. Xi Yao each month attended to him only two-three times. Zhong Zheng Lin hasn't yet performed rite of passage12. As a result, he didn't have the principal wife yet. He still lived in the palace and had only few concubines in the inner yard. Mu Xi Yao was quick-witted and had no conflicts with others. After half a year, she gradually gained the sixth prince's favor.
After receiving favor for three consecutive months, Mu Xi Yao was diagnosed with pregnancy. Later, she gave birth to Zhong Zheng Lin's eldest daughter. The inner yard was a dark place, the eldest daughter died prematurely, not even reaching one month. Xi Yao was grief-stricken and fell ill. During the postnatal period she had severely weakened her body. She had no other choice than to nurse herself back to health. She was unable to serve during this time. Zhong Zheng Lin was busy not only with affairs in the Ministry of Justice, but also had to assist the crown prince in handling matters in the Ministry of Appointments. He had many affairs to attend, so he rarely visited the inner yard.
Following, the principal wife entered the household. In succession, various beauties were brought into the residence. The relationship between Xi Yao and Zhong Zheng Lin was still shallow. Before she had time to solidify her favor, it was already divided. Slowly, she was reduced into an ordinary dispensable concubine.
After this blow, the former Mu Xi Yao, who was lively and liked to smile, drastically changed. This person seemed to be heavily soaked in the evening mist, her liveliness absent.
Subsequently, Zhong Zheng Lin established his official residence outside the palace. Together with other women, Mu Xi Yao entered the sixth prince's residence. Four years later, she finally gave birth to another daughter. Even though this time she was extremely careful, yet, without any trusted people who could assist her, after suffering a cold, the second daughter also died. Two years passed. While Xi Yao was in her seventh month pregnancy, under Jiang cefei's13 vicious tricks, she miscarried an already formed male fetus. Following this miscarriage, Xi Yao was never again pregnant.
As the struggle over the throne intensified, Zhong Zheng Lin, who has been hiding his great ambitions, was engrossed in the work. He disregarded his inner yard. Those concubines who were with no favor, all alone and childless, thoroughly fell into the mud, with no one paying an attention to them.
Even though the sixth prince eventually ascended to the throne, it wasn't to be for Mu Xi Yao to receive a high rank in imperial harem. She was bestowed title of fourth rank Chonghua. Her palace dwelled in some secluded corner. Bed-ridden all year round, residing in a remote palace, it was no different than living in a cold palace14. Before dying, she was attended by only a little maidservant.
Twenty years have passed since she had entered palace. Mu Xi Yao wasn't able to see her family even once. If it wasn't for the blessing of the jade, her vengeful spirit and growing resentment would made it unable for her to reincarnate.
In this lifetime, little Xi Yao was early on possessed by Zhou Tong. There was no pain. She didn't know she had such a miserable and desperate previous life. This could also be considered as a kind of relief.
The current "Mu Xi Yao" was fuming with rage between her gritted teeth, the fire inside her heart was hard to quench. Her eyes were piercing cold: 'Very well. I mysteriously got here and am supposed to end up all lonely and bitter?' Subjected to the special training with overwhelming palace struggle novels and TV dramas, no matter if it was the fight over favor or raising children, she has long been a theoretical expert in this field. So, it was impossible for her to go this road till the end, without second thoughts.
In her understanding, there was no such thing as tragedy. As someone ruthless, who goes by "if a man stabs me once, I will pay man with hundred of thousand stabs", Mu Xi Yao fiercely bit down several names. Then, she closed her eyes to contemplate. Thinking about how to start reversing her position of the second female lead…..
Translator's notes:
[1] A cup of tea's time means 5 min.
[2] 傲娇 (ao jiao) – there's no convenient equivalent of this word in English. It was originally adopted by Chinese netizens, after the boom of mangas and anime. Its interpretation is "seemingly arrogant and standoffish but kind and tender inside."
[3] Great Wei's Zhang He means era name
[4] Di means children born to principal wives
[5] Shu means children born to concubines
[6] Dowry maidservant is a maidservant, that comes along with bride (as a form of dowry) to her husband's household, can later become husband's concubines, either on husbands request or if wife wants to
[7] Bedchamber maidservants are considered concubines with low status (lower than actual concubines) as their role was only to satisfy physical needs of their master
[8] Inner yard is a place where womenfolk resided
[9] Clamber over the dragon and follow the phoenix is a Chinese idiom meaning to seek connections with the highers – ups and rise to power
[10] The selection is held every three-four years, it's an event during which the young women were chosen as spouses or concubines to members of imperial family
[11] Heaven family refers to the imperial family
[12] Rite of passage or coming of age ceremony is held when man reach age of maturity, it means he is matured and ready to marry, that he is adult now and can participate in certain activities
[13] Cefei is a title held by secondary wife of imperial princes (one rank below the official wife), even though cefei's position is higher than those of ordinary concubines (as her name is recognized by imperial lineage) she is still considered as concubine
[14] Cold palace is a place where imperial concubines, that have fallen out of favor or committed a serious offense were confined and kept under a watch
2
Qingzhou. Prefect Mu's residence.
The warm sunlight of the early spring made its way through layer upon layer of branches and leaves and sprinkled on the light yellow muslin pleated skirt. Mu Xi Yao comfortably squinted her eyes. A dark red embroidered blanket was softly wrapped around her lap and a faint grass fragrance lingered around the courtyard. She lied on the side, with her arm lifted and propped on the couch bed. Beside her was the chief maidservant Hui Lan who was peeling a fragrant fruit. Its meat was slightly sweet upon consumption. It was tender and juicy, very delicious.
It's already been two days since her 'recovery from illness'. During this time, Xi Yao easily familiarized herself with the former owner's nature and habits. She actually felt contempt for not being dainty enough, beautiful enough and ~seductive enough. The recovered Xi Yao intentionally made herself seem more sticky to people and more charming.
Lady Yu was distressed about the illness-weakened body of her darling daughter. She meticulously instructed to the second miss's two chief-maidservants to properly attend to their miss's needs. If there was something she liked or wanted, they should just fetch it for her. Her needlework and homework, as well as her morning greetings, were to be put aside for half a month, so she could have a proper rest. The breakfast may be used in her own quarters, but for lunch and dinner, she had to go to the main house.
Mu Xi Yao's elder sister Mu Xi Cheng was at a young age betrothed to Liang You Zhao, who was di son of Liang Bo Wen, the libationer of Imperial Academy. Usually, she was seen doing needlework at home. In the afternoon, she went to lady Yu's place to learn managing household and to watch how lady Yu was making arrangements with the housekeeper. Therefore, she didn't visit Mu Xi Yao's Yingshui Pavilion often.
Since the eldest brother Mu Jing Zhi started his education at the age of three, he had been fond of martial arts and loathed literature. No matter how his father, Mu Jing Zhen reprimanded or whipped him, he still had no interest in participating in the imperial examination. Instead, he wished to enter the army. He looked forward to achieving accomplishments in the battlefield in order to protect his clansmen and to repay his parents the gratitude of raising him. As twelve years old, he left home and joined the army. Five years have passed since then. He became lieutenant captain of the seventh rank. He was away all year round and could make it home only at New Year, to reunite with family.
When Mu Jin Zhi left home, Xi Yao was still a tiny, smart and obedient child. She was a little chubby ball, fair and delicate. Her big eyes were constantly blinking at you. Once she threw herself onto her elder brother and climbed onto him, there was no chance of getting her down. She was frequently following her elder brother, calling him, "big brother, big brother". His heart fluttered at her soft baby voice. Those vivid and trustful eyes made him spoil her rotten.
Every time he came back home, there was for sure a large chest stuffed with interesting and funny objects. They were specifically prepared for Mu Xi Yao. So far, they consisted of beautiful clothes, powders, ceramics, kites, and dolls. On every Lunar New Year and her birthday, these things were bound to be delivered ahead of time. He never failed to forget about it.
Mu Xi Yao lightly caressed the blanket on her lap. She looked to be laid-back and nonchalant, but her brain had not stopped thinking for a moment. There will be an early selection two years from now. When the time comes, there will be no way for her to avoid it. She wasn't confident enough to deceive a monarch with her tricks. Even though the ancient people couldn't measure up to later generations with their extensive common knowledge and broadened horizons, it didn't have to mean that they were stupid. It would only serve her right to fall on hard times if she underrated these old geezers. Moreover, she had parents and siblings; the life of the whole household couldn't come to harm because of her, Mu Xi Yao. Besides, the remnant soul's deep-rooted persistence must be settled as soon as possible in order to avoid it affecting her identity.
As she lifted her foot to leave the couch bed, chief maidservant Mo Lan promptly came to arrange her dress and hairpins. Afterward, she called out little servant girls in the courtyard to set up the parasol and to hand her the rigid fan. The group of people then marched toward the main house.
A few feet away, an old momo1 bowed and said, "Greetings to the second miss." She raised the door curtain while reporting to the inside with a loud voice, "Madam, second miss came to pay you a respect."
"My baby came. Quickly, come in to let mother take a look at you. Are you feeling better today? Does my child feel hungry?" The woman sitting upright on the head seat was just a little over thirty, had a dignified appearance and wore elegant clothes. She was Xi Yao's birth mother, lady Yu. At the moment, she was ordering people to add a tasty fish soup onto the table, as well as urging them to include Mu Xiyao's favorite snacks and sweets.
Mu Xi Yao, who was in reality almost thirty, had never understood what it meant to act youthful nor to restrain herself. Thus, she put on her face a charming smile and paid her respect. Then, with a swaying movement, she went to hold lady Yu's arm, acting spoiled. She shamelessly asked: "Was mother thinking of me? Xi Yao missed mother so much. Already in the morning, I was thinking about the walnut biscuit from here～." Her voice was so sweet that lady Yu was grinning from ear to ear. She very gently stroked her tiny head while asking if she was still feeling unwell and if people serving her were attentive enough. Shortly after, an announcement that the eldest miss has arrived came from outside.
As Mu Xi Cheng entered the room, sure enough, she saw her little sister glued to mother, acting all cunning and well-behaved. She properly paid respect to lady Yu and then walked toward them while laughing at Mu Xi Yao for not behaving like a young lady. She even rolled eyes at her, implying: You play. Continue to play. Mu Xi Cheng was well acquainted with the fact that Mu Xi Yao played a smart and lovable child before parents and elders, whereas behind them she excitedly followed Mu Jing Zhi, making troubles. A wild monkey since childhood. There were countless occasions when she took the blame in her stead.
They were just joking around and having a good time when concubine Wu came with Mu Xi Ting to courtly pay respect. Concubine Wu greeted each of them and then consciously sat next to the head seat, listening to lady Yu and two di misses' conversation. From time to time, she would give few replies to make conversation livelier.
Concubine Wu was not favored, yet remarkably, she behaved appropriately and knew what was her duty. Therefore, lady Yu treated this shu daughter well, never reprimanding her harshly. The clothes, jewelry, discipline maidservants2 and needlework teacher di misses' enjoyed, Mu Xi Ting also had. Lady Yu's generosity in showing concern and care for children and her equal treatment of people earned her an even greater respect from sir Mu.
After consuming the food, concubine Wu and Mu Xi Ting went back to have an afternoon rest. Mu Xi Yao, at this time, started to talk. She firstly greatly praised herself for finally growing up, making lady Yu and her elder di sister burst out laughing, then seized this opportunity to propose picking up lessons of zither, painting, calligraphy, needlework and culinary after another half a month.
Lady Yu was rather surprised by such declaration coming from this little restless monkey's mouth. Mu Xi Yao held her chin highly, immensely pleased with herself. She waved her hand and said: "All the peerless beauties in the folktale I read yesterday were like that. How can I lose to them?"
Lady Yu fell down from laughing while Mu Xi Cheng covered her mouth and laughed until she forgot how to breathe. Lady Yu always pampered her youngest daughter. She immediately gave her consent and instructed her to not just play around this time and take it seriously. In the evening, she mentioned this interesting incident to sir Mu. Sir Mu stroked his beard, his eyes glinting with smiles.
Half a month later, Xi Yao practiced calligraphy and painting in the morning. After taking a nap in the afternoon, she practiced needlework and culinary skills. Moreover, in the evening she was tirelessly polishing her zither playing. In the modern days, she was a descendant of the family with literary reputation. She had grandparents who put their heart and soul into her upbringing. Thanks to this fine education, she was provided with the foundation that enabled her to easily manage the four arts3.
The troublesome thing was that Mu Xi Yao had no talent nor the basic skill for needlework. Even the former owner fared better than her. She could only get by. After all, the previous owner had at least practiced, unlike this pampered only child who has never touched a needle before.
A month has passed with joy and laughter. Today, Mu Xi Yao was taking an afternoon nap and having a nice dream when a sudden voice in her head roused her up. She was still sluggish and only later did she realize that it was again that jade pendant's doing.
Well, Mu Xi Yao really disliked that pendant. When one called it, it played dead. When one didn't call it, it became a trouble. It either caused her headaches or it disrupted her dreams.
"What's there to yell?!" When this woman woke up in a bad mood, she had to throw a fit first.
This jade pendant also felt wronged! What's all of this?! Instead of saving its original owner, it met a shrew! Not only did it lose its face by accepting the new master in such a dire state, but it was also being disliked. Yet, when this jade pendant could finally let out a sigh of relief and disclose an important matter, it got scolded after just few calls. The jade pendant felt truly sad. But thinking that there was an important issue, it had no other option only to suffer in silence.
However, some people were even more urgent. This woman fiercely commanded: "Let's not mention about you causing me headaches and fever for now. Quickly, send me back!"
"There's no spiritual power. It's impossible to send you back."
"When can you recover?"
"Not anymore. Do you think that tearing a time-space is such an easy feat?"
Mu Xi Yao's face darkened. After a silent contemplation, her tone calmed down: "Are there spiritual cultivators here?"
"You also know about cultivators? However, it's an ancient thing. At the present, there's only a scarce spiritual energy left. Spiritual orthodoxy already ceased to exist. I'm also just a spiritual item. I was given to my owner as a guardian spiritual jade by great cultivator from ancient times. A spiritual item of the highest quality."
Mu Xi Yao felt that she saw the pendant raising up its dog tail.
"Are you of any use?"
It wasn't an illusion. It could actually understand emotions as it sighed in despair.
"Currently, there's not a big use of me. You can keep me close by to avoid all the poisons from the mortal realm and to protect yourself. The jade pendant from the previous life is already shattered and does no longer exist. In this lifetime, because of my forcible intrusion, I suffered a severe damage. The majority of my functions will never again recover. The space I carried, changed from the size of a courtyard into a size of a chest. This is also the aftermath one must bear for reversing time-space."
The spiritual jade pendant sounded sorrowful. It couldn't help itself from grieving. Nevertheless, it heard from this woman, in a voice more injured than him, asking, "That space is only the size of a chest? Can I not get inside? What about the spiritual spring? Fruit trees? Spiritual beasts?"
The spiritual jade pendant pulled a long face. This woman. You are thinking too much. Even if the jade pendant was intact, it was still only a spiritual and not an immortal item. Disregarding the woman's weird self-talk, it instructed her: "Not only the jade pendant is damaged, I am also about to dissipate. All the sealed power inside the jade pendant has been used up. Time has also changed. Naturally, the spiritual item is unable to exist. I only came to tell you an important matter. Put an end to this karma."
Mu Xi Yao knew that the highlight was coming. Hence, she listened seriously and paid a special attention to the conversation.
"There are jade scrolls inside the space. Since you don't have the spiritual knowledge, you are unable to use them. But there's a health regimen scripture, which was bestowed to master by his teacher while practicing cultivation. It's especially useful for women's appearance. You can freely take the pills inside the bottle. There's almost nothing left. There are only four kinds, one for each. Losing spirituality and sustaining a serious damage, the jade will inevitably be reduced to the lowest level spirit tool. It will warn its owner about danger. However, it will be powerless to protect its owner. You have to be especially careful.
Now, you are Mu Xi Yao. Since you are capable to snatch this chance, then you should be a person of fortune. But as you have merged into one with the remnant soul, her grudge, resentment, love, hate, and regrets, which brought her this karma, will all be passed on to you. As time goes, it will affect the purity of your soul. It must be all settled in this lifetime. Otherwise, robbing someone else's chance, yet making no acts and furthermore tainting your own soul, will result in you being trapped in this place, unable to reincarnate after you die. Alright. Time's up. Take care."
Before Mu Xi Yao could react to his farewell, he completely dissipated. The last spiritual tool from the ancient times eventually reached the end of its road.
Although Mu Xi Xao hated the transmigrating deity for being too heartless and not sending her back, she also knew that one shouldn't put too many thoughts on things that couldn't be undone. She tried to take out the health regimen scripture. She put it aside once she realized that she could understand what was written there and proceeded with differentiating the pills. Skin nourishment pill…..Youth maintenance pill…..Holy Spirit pill (the holy medicine for curing poisons)…..Fragrance pill. Uh-huh. Very well. Mu Xi Yao was pleased.
As a result, in the following year, Mu Xi Yao did what was expected of her; spending her days in her maiden quarters. She consumed all the pills except for the Holy Spirit pill.
After a year's time, her face bloomed. Practicing the health regimen in the scripture made her body grow taller, promising a slender build. With the nurture from the pills, her appearance, which could be originally considered only as delicate, changed. Though she didn't possess the appearance that would overturn states, she still could be regarded as an exquisite jasper, making people woo her.
Mu Xi Yao knew many secrets that would astound the world. She never mentioned them to others. In this life, only she will know about them.
There were no additional pills. The whole health regimen scripture had a bigger effect on women. Thus, she selected to use only its first half for sir Mu and Mu Jin Zhi, to improve their physical fitness. She explained to them that she has found it accidentally while picking a novel at a bookstall. She privately coaxed lady Yu and shoved the other half about maintaining a youthful appearance into her hand, advising her and Mu Xi Cheng to practice it as their pastime.
Translator's notes:
[1] Momo means an old female servant
[2] Discipline maidservants were maidservants that were assigned to their misses to teach them proper etiquette
[3] Four arts refer to zither, go, calligraphy and painting – these four arts represent the accomplishments of a well – educated person
3
The autumn of Zhanghe's tenth year. There will be a selection in another six months. The imperial order will likely reach each prefecture by the beginning of the new year.
Mu Xi Yao didn't dare to resist fate. Moreover, she didn't want to end up unable to reincarnate. As a result, she made the preparations ahead of the time.
With her deliberate grooming, her chief maidservants Hui Lan and Mo Lan had gained modest knowledge of medicine. They coped well with situations that needed emergency treatment. Although they weren't versed in medical knowledge, and also couldn't check one's pulse nor write prescriptions, but they could identify almost all the common poisons.
Maidservant of the second rank Chun Lan was literate, proficient in mathematics and could manage daily tasks. Inside Yingshui Pavilion, maidservants of the second rank and higher were all children of household servants. Furthermore, they all have signed death contracts1. Xiyao made them practice the extracted first part of the health regime scripture, as well as forbidding them telling it to others. After half a year's time of practice, everyone had more agile movements and fitter bodies. It was impossible for them to catch cold from an ordinary cool breeze or trip over while walking.
Xi Yao was fully aware that the inner yard was like a battlefield. Even the most brilliant general couldn't fare well without small soldiers. Obviously, the empty fort strategy2 wasn't Mu Xi Yao's cup of tea. This demoness was highly capable, but she didn't like to be pushed around by others.
Nor the soul or the spiritual item, that held no grudge against her, had come to a good end. Not to mention those black-listed people that will emerge, one by one, in the near future. They have been firmly marked on her mind for a long time.
Mu Xi Yao had consumed the spiritual pill. Also, with the assistance of women benefitting's health regimen scripture, her mind was sharper and those pair of beautiful eyes of hers became more black and shiny. The sweet appearance of them gleaming with tears made one's heart unable to stop the itchiness3. In the previous life, her figure was already shapely. Nowadays, it was even more curvaceous. As Xi Yao would put it, an enchantress～.
—–
Evening. The imperial palace. The sixth prince's study.
Zhong Zheng Lin finished reading reports. He leaned his back against a soft chair and casually stretched his long legs. He used one hand to smooth his furrowed brows and the other to tap on the table.
Wei Zhen, who was nearby attending, became even more quiet. Seeing the cold air his Highness was emitting, he knew that someone was going to be in trouble.
As Zhong Zheng Lin's personal attendant, who had been accompanying him since he was six years old, Wei Zhen was naturally well acquainted with his Highness's habits. He was just gloating at the bottom of his heart, guessing about who was the one that bumped into his Highness's hands. Shortly, he heard a deep male voice over his head saying, "Tell Ye Kai that we are departing to Qingzhou in three days."
He was about to reply when outside the chief-steward Tian Fu Shan requested for an audience.
Tian Fu Shan was distant relative of Zhong Zheng Lin's consort-mother4 consort Shu5 of Tian clan. When the sixth prince was seven years old, he was specially assigned to him by consort Shu, to manage daily affairs in the prince's household. Tian Fu Shan was honest and dutiful, shrewd and capable. Moreover, he was trustworthy. Hence, Zhong Zheng Lin entrusted him with important tasks.
"Your Highness, where should be the meal served?" Tian Fu Shan pondered and then added, "Concubine Kong had sent your Highness a soup to the front yard during the day."
Zhong Zheng Lin acted indifferently, but Tian Fu Shan was certain his Highness was displeased.
Indeed, he heard him say, "Serve it in the study's outer room. Have concubine Kong study the conduct properly. She isn't allowed to leave the inner yard without a permission."
Sure enough. She was directly put under house arrest.
Lady Kong was captivating, yet had no favor. It was well-known that the sixth prince had only two chambers6. She's been here already few months, serving two-three times per month. However, she wasn't allowed to conceive. In the meantime, she could only spend her days alone in her quarters.
The other bestowed concubine was lady Wu. She was, on the contrary, well-mannered, but her personality was wooden and lacked a charm. She fared even worse than Lady Kong. She had served only twice in these few months. Everyone in the household knew she was an invisible person.
When Zhong Zheng Lin's brothers learnt that he was still being stern and aloof, indifferent to beautiful maidens, even after gaining the sexual experience, they all laughed at him for his disability to enjoy the experience. Later, under the pressure of the sixth Highness's imposing aura, they never again mentioned about his inner yard's affairs.
On the road to Qingzhou, servant Ye Kai steadily drove the carriage. The commander of guards, Yan Cheng Zhou took along with him two bodyguards. Together, they followed the carriage while riding on a horse.
Wei Zhen reached the city of Qingzhou beforehand to make the preparations needed for his Highness to settle down after he arrives.
During this trip to Qingzhou, everyone was dressed up in common clothes, looking decent enough to seem like a gentleman from a wealthy family having an outing.
Zhong Zheng Lin was sitting inside the carriage. His left hand was grasping the scroll he was reading, while his right hand was holding the silver needle of the gentleman mountain7. He carried the tea to his lips, took a sip and then moved it away to play with it.
What a great provincial governor of Qingzhou. Accepting bribes while in the capital city. After being appointed to a post outside of the capital city, suppressing three ministries, engaging in secret communication with the regional commander and colluding about the transport of tribute grain.
He thought that he was secretive enough, but the crown prince had already noticed him. Previously, he has intentionally let him off, waiting for a moment to catch him red-handed, so that he could pull out all the grasshoppers hung on the rope8. The crown prince regarded the first prince as nail in the eyes and thorn in flesh9. The two fought each other at the imperial court. Outside the court, they also didn't cease to cross swords. This time, crown prince will certainly use this opportunity to suppress the first prince and the noble consort Li's party and along with it cut off his shu brother's money road so that he won't have any additional money left to fight with him.
Zhong Zheng Lin was fully aware of the difficulties inside, as well as that he acted as the crown prince's tool. The crown prince was unwilling to reveal this case so soon as he didn't want to make enemies for himself. He was also afraid that if he made a big commotion around the case, he would attract attention to himself, and thus, making his siblings wary of him and having them join up forces against him.
Therefore, he, the cold-faced prince, had to take on these worries on his behalf. As someone who was a member of the crown prince's party on the surface, it was only natural that he had to obey his orders and work for him. Wasn't this the reason why Yuancheng Emperor groomed him to be the crown prince's aid? In that case, he should be an obedient son and do well his job. However, it was hard to tell who schemed on whom.
The purpose of this trip to Qingzhou was for the provincial governor, Guo Jian Ping.
The carriage arrived to Qingzhou. Each of them acted separately.
Zhong Zheng Lin freshened up and took a rest in a courtyard that was prepared for him in advance. He left all his tasks for tomorrow.
When he was free in the evening, he took Wei Zhen with him to Juxian House to dine and also to familiarize with the place and people while being there.
Today, Mu Xi Yao together with lady Yu was invited by lady Ceng, the assistant brigade commander's wife, to their estate as guests. Mu Xi Cheng was betrothed so she remained in her chamber. Mu Xi Ting was well aware of her status hence she rarely went out with di mother.
Mu Xi Yao was pleased to be the only one as it was more convenient. Placing her among young ladies was like putting a fish back into the water. Since she was just twelve years old, younger than most of the present noble ladies. She looked sweet, yet simple-minded. Her voice was soft and gentle. When she spoke, it made people feel fond of her from the bottom of their heart.
This woman was never conscious of herself being thirty years old. She only knew that if there was a benefit, no matter if it was by righteous or foul means, she had to squeeze out as much of the benefit as she could. Nobody would mind having a good reputation and many valuable connections.
After the banquet ended, Xi Yao, again, started to cling to lady Yu, asking for milk cake from Juxian House. The truth was she was interested in the liveness outside. She was thinking about taking a bit of stroll on the way there. How was it possible for lady Yu to not know what she was thinking about? She tapped her forehead. After giving her the consent, she got into the palanquin. Afterward, Mu Xi Yao headed toward the city's west.
—–
Zhong Zheng Lin was sitting inside the box of the second floor. His seat was placed by the window. He leisurely sat there, with the teacup in hands, recuperating.
Just as in the past, Wei Zhen carried a serious face. He stood there in silence, remaining a one-step distance from his master.
Both master and servant were quite used to this kind of interaction. But the outsider would unavoidably consider it too cold.
Downstairs, a girl's soft voice could be heard. Obviously, its owner was quite pleased. In the autumn's evening, the girl's voice was sweet, carrying a hint of warmth. It was a very pleasant sound to the listener's ears.
Zhong Zheng Lin turned his eyes and looked down. He managed to only catch a glimpse of fair hand putting down the curtain of the palanquin, slowly disappearing into the distance.
—–
Another half a month has passed. Zhong Zheng Lin had settled the matters in his hands. He just had to return to the capital to make a report.
He was planned to set up for a return to the capital the day after tomorrow. Zhong Zheng Lin's subordinates were all well trained, capable of carrying out important tasks. In Qingzhou, only one person knew that Great Wei's sixth prince had personally come there for already several days and was about to be involved in a major case.
—–
Mu Xi Yao brought with her Mo Lan and two others servant girls to Cuizhu House, looking over zither manuals.
She selected a cyan colored bamboo flute. She intended to give it to Mu Jing Zhi as a return gift after he came back home in the New Year.
She gained so many little things, out of blue. This woman slowly came to a realization that there was a necessity to deepen the siblings' relationship, and hence, stabilize the revolutionary front. Mu Xi Yao practiced zither, yet Mu Jing Zhi was solely fond of flute. Her brother served in the army. Right, it was hard to tell if he'll ever become a high official of some region. Moreover, a parental home was a woman's backing on establishing herself in the inner yard. Therefore, from time to time, she would express her admiration toward him. Then, she would use the old trick of blinking her eyes at him to completely captivate her elder brother's heart, who had a sister complex. It was simply too fundamental!
Coming out of Cuizhu House, Mu Xi Yao inadvertently lifted her eyes. Coincidentally, in a few meters distance, she caught a sight of the back of a man attired in blue-green garments.
For a moment, it was as if she was struck by a lighting. Of course, the one who felt dumbstruck wasn't her but the original soul's obsessiveness that has reacted too intensively.
Mu Xi Yao was such a revengeful person. She immediately realized who that man was. Even if she was to die, she won't forget.
She slightly narrowed her eyes and stood still for a moment. Even Mo Lan, who stood behind her, didn't notice her change of mood. Mu Xi Yao called them (Mo Lan and others), turned her back to him and left. Her elegant and graceful figure and lithe steps attracted people's attention.
She seemed to be in a cheerful mood when entering cosmetics boutique. She let Mo Lan and little servant girls make the purchase. Yet, entirely different thoughts occupied her mind. Inwardly, she fiercely promised to make fool of Zhong Zheng Lin. She will enchant him till he will lose his five po's and three hun's10. She will forcibly turn the pathetic second female lead into the pampered female lead. Furthermore, she will give birth and raise more than three little buns to thoroughly fulfill Mu Xiyao's dream from the former incarnation.
If she could not accomplish it, she will pay with her own life! Right. If she was unable to fulfill the wish, she won't be able to reincarnate and will become a wandering vengeful spirit. Wasn't it like losing a life?
Therefore, whoever was ignorant enough to cause her troubles, irritate her and prevent her from climbing up the ladder to success, will become her archenemy. Even death couldn't change this fact!
Zhong Zheng Lin had Ye Kai following him. As if sensing something, he suddenly turned his head. He only saw a young girl's back. She possessed a unique charm and slender, willowy build. In a blink of an eye, she entered the cosmetics boutique.
Ye Kai saw his Highness turning around his body. He didn't understand why the handsome yet expressionless face of his Highness just now suddenly turned around to look back. Not daring to ask, he just followed him, moving along with him.
Translator's notes:
[1] Death contracts mean contracts, which are not redeemable
[2] The empty fort strategy refers to a strategy, that involves using reverse psychology and luck to deceive the enemy into thinking that an empty location is full of traps and ambushes, hence, inducing the enemy to retreat
[3] Make one's heart itch is an idiom describing making someone feel extremely happy
[4] Imperial princes born of concubines could call only Empress mother, their birth mother were called consort-mother
[5] Consort Shu – Shu isn't the name of Zhong Zheng Lin's mother. It's her title, which means virtuous
[6] Two chambers in this context means two women, that attended to his needs (concubines) as chamber here means a place were women resided
[7] Silver needle of the gentleman mountain is a yellow tea from Junshan island
[8]Grasshoppers hung on the rope is an idiom meaning that everybody is in one boat
[9] Nail in the eyes and thorn in flesh is an idiom meaning irritation, impediment – thorn in the side
[10] In Chinese religion it was believed that one person had ten souls – three huns and seven pos. Three huns stands for three principles of social order (relationship between ruler-subject, father-child, husband-wife), seven pos can either stand for seven apertures (in the head, eye, ears, nostrils and mouth) or seven emotions (joy, anger, sorrow, fear, worry, grief, fright)
4
The hour of Hai1. The Palace. The sixth prince's study.
Zhong Zheng Lin finished writing the memorial. He slowly walked toward the window to watch the mottled shadows of threes and the far-away sky, which appeared to be gloomy due to the coming rain. There were no stars shining, only large and dark clouds. The air also felt stuffy.
Very good. It matched well with the scenery. A storm was approaching…
In a place nearby table, Wei Zhen was quietly giving a report about information gathered by shadow guards2. His gaze laid upon his Highness who was standing there upright, with hands behind his back. As his Highness didn't interrupt him nor ask questions, he knew that his Highness has already made up his mind.
Zhong Zheng Lin listened to Wei Zhen's reports while musing about the situation in the imperial court. He felt a strong necessity to fall ill after this case with the provincial governor of Qingzhou was completely finished, to avoid the coming storm. It didn't make sense to do all the crown prince's work and then rush to act as his shield.
Even though the crown prince overpowered the first prince in Qingzhou's case, none of them were doormats. The first prince suffered a defeat this time simply because he was framed. Any perceptive person could see who was standing behind Zhong Zheng Lin's back.
Based on the first prince's, Zhong Zheng Chun's, temper, he will certainly use any possible means to exact revenge later on. The crown prince had too many suspicious private matters. It was impossible to cover them all and get away with it.
Zhong Zheng Lin didn't fear the intimidation of others. If the first prince, in the heat of the moment, stopped by to make a fuss, even better. It would just make Yuanchen Emperor see, how much was his obedient son wronged for running the crown prince's errand.
However, it was necessary to instruct the spies planted in each residence to cease their actions for a while and just monitor.
After finishing matters in the study, the chief steward respectfully asked, "Would you like to take a rest in the inner yard, your Highness?"
He certainly wasn't fond of controlling his Highness's inner yard affairs. His Highness left for half a month. Upon arrival, he has rested in the study for two consecutive days. Her Ladyship consort Shu has already revealed her dissatisfaction. She was speculating, whether those two concubines were of liking to her son or not.
When she called to mind those two, consort Shu thought that she had exclusively selected them for her son.
Lady Kong was pretty and also physically attractive. Young men loved beauties. They were more willing to be intimate with women possessing an enticing figure. As a consort-mother, she would naturally be glad to see that happen. At this moment, consort Shu wasn't the tiniest bit worried that her youngest son would indulge himself in lustful desires as Zhong Zheng Lin had shown an admirable self-discipline and restraint since he was a child.
On the contrary, lady Wu was well-behaved and dutiful. She had a voluptuous figure, ideal for producing children. As a weak-willed person, it was unlikely for her to compete with lady Kong, which will, as result, lead to less misconducts in the inner yard. Such arrangements couldn't be wrong. Yet, it seemed that things didn't go the way consort Shu planned. It made her puzzled. Was it possible that….her son's taste changed?
Alright, your Ladyship. You're a bright person to start worrying about your son's preferences so soon. If that person wasn't special, your son wouldn't happen to get fooled by demoness Mu Xi Yao. Of course, these were all after stories.
But consort Shu didn't know. She was still contemplating. With her son's temperament, she won't be able to get anything from him. Eventually, she was at her wit's end. Now, she only looked forward to having a sweet pillow-talk with the Emperor, asking him to grace her son with two good-looking maidens from good families. With the increased number of people, there will be naturally someone to attract Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes.
After entering the palace several times to pay a visit, it was inevitable for someone as sharp as Zhong Zheng Lin to detect consort Shu's intention.
Consort Shu of Tian clan was favored. Although she had two sons, due to her eldest son's ears condition, his future prospects were ruined. Most of the time she felt guilty about the fourth prince. Therefore, she showered him with great care and watched over him all the time. She spoilt and indulged him terribly as a way of compensation.
In the end, consort Shu knew that all of her hopes had to fall on to her younger son's shoulders. As a result, she placed an extraordinary importance on him. She was affectionate with him as well as being very strict. When Zhong Zheng Lin reached the age of six, according to palace protocols, he had to move into the prince's quarter. Since then, any wind blow and grass stirring3 would get consort Shu alarmed.
Next year, Zhong Zheng Lin was going to hold a coming of age ceremony. His marriage wasn't far away. After that, he will have to move into his official residence outside the palace. However, his current temper was a tad bit too cold. He had no interest in the inner yard. Since he was still residing in the palace, there was consort Shu to make arrangements behind the shadows, so he would once in a while settle in his concubine's chamber. When he moves out of the palace and establish his own residence, she won't be able to do anything. As this residence will have its righteous princess consort, consort Shu won't be able to freely meddle with her son's inner courtyard's affairs. By that time, if princess consort wouldn't be able to attain her son's favor and, furthermore, let him cold, what was she going to do then?
The imperial family put a great importance on producing offsprings, so much that….the more consort Shu thought, the more anxious she became. She even started to seriously scheme about her son's marriage. Back then, when the fourth prince was getting married, she had asked him about his wishes beforehand and then bestowed him the marriage with the one he was fond of.
Now, it was the sixth prince's turn to pick consort. She must be carefully selected. This extraordinary woman must not become his hindrance. Consort Shu began to attentively recollect which maidens from prestigious and noble families in the capital could still catch up with the next selection.
Listening to Tian Fu Shan's deliberate mention of inner yard, Zhong Zheng Lin assumed that it was consort Shu's idea. In the end, he was a filial son. Moreover, he hasn't entered the inner yard for a month. He couldn't say that he was without any urges. After a moment of silence, he raised his foot and walked in the direction of the inner yard.
His steps were steady. Whenever he thought about going to a concubine's chamber, he felt a lack of interest. Then, recalling about the usual manners of those two concubines of his, even that little urge he had gradually faded away.
Lady Kong's powder scent was too heavy, making her extremely vulgar. Although her body was enticing, as soon as she opened her mouth, she became very unlikable. Moreover, her pretentiousness offended his eyes.
The other concubine, lady Wu, was even worse. Zhong Zheng Ling felt irritated just by seeing her. Even if someone was to beat her, she was unlikely to utter a word. She resembled a wooden pole when she stayed in her chamber. Furthermore, her personality was timid and fearful. Zhongzheng Lin who was already indifferent, being put in the same room with lady Wu, even more didn't feel like talking.
Wei Zhen, who was following him, noticed the sudden cold air emitting from his Highness. It took him a moment to realize why. By the second gateway, he excused himself and retired. Just based on his Highness's complexion, Wei Zhen was able to guess that his Highness was unhappy.
Later on, when his master demands water, Wei Zhen will need to return and prepare it. He assigned two guards by the doorway, to carry on their night duties. After his highness was finished, they were to light the lamps.
In the end, Zhong Zheng Lin still entered lady Kong's quarters.
The man's face darkened after seeing the people that came out to conduct greetings. The enticing figure of lady Kong was wasted on her. Her fundamental was too poor, incapable of sustaining that gracefulness and allure. Watching the woman, who was shaking like a leaf, appear before him to bow and pay him respect, made Zhong Zheng Lin feel annoyed.
Suddenly, he recalled one graceful silhouette. Soon after, he felt it was absurd and suppressed this strange feeling.
After entering the chamber, Zhong Zheng Lin directly ordered: "Settle."
He may as well not give lady Kong any opportunity to annoy him.
"Yes, your Highness." Lady Kong raised the pitch of her voice, replying in seven twists and eight turns4.
Zhong Zheng Lin was displeased. For the first time ever, he frowned.
Lady Kong felt wronged. Any sensible man ought to know that she was showing a discreet gentleness and extreme shyness! Yet, his sixth Highness was as steady as Mount Tai, not reacting to her moves at all.
Ever since being bestowed to the sixth prince's inner yard, this was the first time lady Kong saw his Highness explicitly expressing his mood, a frown nonetheless! It scared her to the extent that her legs went limp. She quickly returned her voice to normal, not daring to speak again. She merely went over and carefully assisted him with freshening up.
Lady Kong was aware that she wasn't favored. She was already holding back a lot. Moreover, she was still unclear of his Highness's likes. She also felt mad!
There were only two women in the inner yard. She wasn't favored, that lady Wu was even more so. There was no way to vie for a favor at all. If one was to vie for the favor, there needed to be some competition, right? But, where did his Highness's "love" lie? Without any example and also ways to inquire, lady Kong had no other choice as to carefully serve his Highness and secretly take notes of his moods.
Lady Kong knew how to be tactful and engage in small talks, but the opposite party was of high rank and too powerful, making people fearful of him.
Zhong Zheng Lin's whole body gave off a cold aura. No matter how many tricks had Lady Kong up her sleeve, she didn't have the courage to use them. After both of them undressed, lady Kong turned completely prim, not daring to move. Zhong Zheng Lin, with a rigid face, turned to look at the women's body beneath him. There was no tenderness, only lust in his eyes. He then started to move, satiating his needs.
After slaking his lust, Zhong Zheng Lin felt that it wasn't as satisfying as when he got himself off. Lovemaking between men and women was unnecessary. As per usual, he exited the chamber without using any water. He marched straight to his quarters in the front yard.
If Mu Xi Yao knew what was Zhong Zheng Lin currently thinking, she would certainly cry with a bitter: "Darn you, beast! Great Boss chooses his dish according to the one who was serving it. He particularly liked to ravish her body with his insatiable appetite.
The following month, Zhong Zheng Lin reluctantly visited lady Wu's quarters once. Afterward, he had not entered the inner yard again.
The chief steward Tian Fu Shan was bewildered as for how to give a report to consort Shu.
It was impossible for him to tell her that his Highness was indifferent in nature and that in this matter he was also indifferent. Usually, the ones attending to his sixth Highness were all manservants. The only women that had served him closely were only those two new concubines. His Highness was used to having manservants as he wasn't fond of maids. Consort Shu also didn't force him on this matter. To this day, Zhong Zheng Lin's resting quarters were cleaned up daily by Tian Fu Shan himself. Therefore, those dirty underpants obviously meant that his master would rather relieve his needs by himself than have someone else attending to him.
This was a complicated matter. It was either his Highness didn't like women or that the women in the estate were not to his Highness's liking.
Translator's notes:
[1] The hour of hai means 09-11 PM
[2] Shadow guards are the guards that were oftentimes selected from orphans (as they don't have any families). They underwent secret training after which they become responsible for the safety of their master, performs the assassination, surveillance and other tasks under orders of their master
[3] Wind blow and grass stirring means a sign of disturbance or problem
[4] In seven twists and eight turns means in an improper manner
5
In the Hall of Taihe, a group of courtiers were gathered, their heads down and posture humble.
Yuanchen Emperor has just vented his anger. The former provincial governor of Qingzhou, Guo Jian Ping, was removed from the office and being interrogated. The regional commander Song Yu was suspended from his duties and handed to the Ministry of Justice for investigation. The rest has been taken into custody, still waiting for the trial. He then ordered the Ministry of Personnel to appoint new provincial governor candidates in three days. Yuancheng emperor was always swift and decisive, this time was no exception.
After courtiers retreated, Yuancheng emperor cast a casual glance at the princes. He saw his eldest son, Zhong Zheng Chun, get on seemingly well with the crown prince, both showing love and respect for each other as two good brothers. The sixth prince, Zhong Zheng Lin, was coldly nodding to courtiers' compliments, a slight impatience could be seen on his face. On the other side, the fifth prince, Zhong Zheng Ming, had a warm smile, showing quite a refinement when interacting with courtiers.
Yuenchen Emperor observed his sons. Afterward, he went to the imperial study with chief eunuch Chang De following him, his expression unreadable.
The changes in the imperial court, indeed, caught everyone unguarded. It was boiling in the private. All the eyes were fixed on the vacant yet lucrative post of the provincial governor, contemplating on how to place on that position their own people.
Zhong Zheng Lin, on the contrary, appeared to be unaffected as usual, his demeanor aloof. He clearly didn't want to be dragged into this matter. Those who didn't know would think that Qingzhou case had nothing to do with him.
However, the truth was that long before the crown prince, his sixth Highness already had his plans with Qingzhou. But he left no evidence behind and had pushed the boat with the current1. His arrangements had been properly set up in advance. The princes were bound to go up against each other, both in public and in private. Their supporters will frequently relocate. In this contest, Zhong Zheng Lin's people were going to be personally pushed up by them. The post of the provincial governor was not far from his reach. This matter was confidential. Even such a trusted aide as Wei Zhen didn't know. It's clear that Zhong Zheng Lin's hidden forces should not be underestimated.
Although the crown prince was Zhong Zheng Lin's senior, it was a pity that he rejoiced in grandiose deeds, was impatient and interested only in immediate benefits. He was created as an heir apparent in early age thus he always acted bossy and arrogant toward his brothers and considered himself to be superior. He took many things for granted and committed countless of misconducts by taking advantage of Yuancheng Emperor's favor.
Regarding Zhong Zheng Lin, the crown prince's sixth brother; on one side, he was trying to win him over, but on the other, he was keeping a guard against him. Inwardly, he felt contempt for his sixth brother since he considered him as someone dull and cold-blooded. However, this didn't mean that he didn't see him as a threat. Princes that have grown up inside the imperial palace will never be simple. Therefore, he had to keep a guard against everyone. Not taking into account his sixth brother Zhong Zheng Lin's usual attitude, even if it was a pretense, so what? He was still weak in his roots. Before establishing his prince's residence, he stood a little chance to win the fight.
The biggest thorn at the moment was the first prince, Zhong Zheng Chun! Noble consort Li's natal family was a long-established and prominent clan. Zhong Zheng Chun's maternal grandfather was duke of Anguo and maternal uncle occupied the position of imperial guards' commander. His backup was indeed strong.
By making the use of Qingzhou governor's case, they gave Zhong Zheng Chun a slap.
This slap could be counted only as an interest. There was more awaiting him!
—–
In Qingzhou, Mu Xi Yao also didn't idle around. Although she was just a womenfolk and had limited ways of gathering information, there were many instances when she could hear a word or two from sir Mu's and lady Yu's conversation before the evening meal.
Today, she heard sir Mu informing lady Yu that in coming few days he won't be to attend dinner at home as the fifth prince will shortly arrive to Jinzhou, running some errands. Since Qingzhou is nearby, he will stop there for two days.
When the two words "fifth prince" came out, one person's name suddenly jumped into Mu Xi Yao's mind: Di Wu Yi Zhao!
Di Wu Yi Zhao was a person of great talent! Thoughtful and farseeing, his wisdom was almost on par with that of a devil. Only the best of the best strategists could compete with him! He was taught by his era's most acclaimed scholar, Mu Yuan Zhen. Di Wu Yi Zhao had ambitions, yet he wasn't interested in taking imperial examinations. Furthermore, he possessed a quite strong persona as he patiently waited for a wise master.
Besides being renowned for his intelligence, Di Wu Yi Zhao was also a well-known doting husband. Even though his wife had a hard time bearing a child, as she had fallen victim to intrigues during her maiden times, and had born him only one daughter, he didn't mind it at all. He even went as far as to disobey his mother's order, vowing to never take concubines. To avoid his wife being blamed by his mother, he along with his wife and their daughter lived all year round outside. He had only one wife and one daughter in his lifetime.
In the previous life, Di Wu Yi Zhao's wife and daughter had an unpleasant encounter with a rake on the outskirts of Qingzhou's Fahua Temple. By chance, Zhong Zheng Ming has passed by and helped them. On the evening of that very day, Di Wu Yi Zhao sent him a visiting card2, to personally express him his thanks. The two had a chat that went on till very late at night. Henceforth, they became acquainted with each other.
Later, as Zhong Zheng Ming returned to the capital, he wrote him repeatedly letters expressing the admiration for his talent and the wish to appoint him as his advisor. Di Wu Yi Zhao deemed Zhong Zheng Ming to be honest, humble and benevolent. Zhong Zheng Ming treated men of talent with respect and also had his own view on politics. Although he had not the qualities to become a sage-ruler, he had the potential to be a wise sovereign. Moreover, Di Wu Yi Zhao was grateful to him for aiding his wife and daughter thus he had voluntarily enlisted in his services.
With his assistance, Zhong Zheng Ming reaped many benefits during the subsequent succession disputes as Di Wu Yi Zhao secretly used eight prince's hand to inflict serious damage on the crown prince's faction in one swoop and then framed it to the first prince, accusing him of conspiring machinations. This made Yuancheng Emperor infuriated. He stripped the first prince's title of prince of An and put him under the house arrest for the rest of his life. As seen, Di Wu Yi Zhao had a great contribution in such a big development.
Unexpectedly, there was a vile person in the fifth prince's residence who was upset that Di Wu Yi Zhao was overly honored. Afraid that he will snatch his benefits, he plotted to have people provoke the fifth prince's shu daughter into estranging Di Wu Yi Zhao's wife and daughter at a banquet hosted in the estate. The shu daughter, along with the invited noblewomen from the capital, denigrated and mocked the two. They also indicated that Di Wu Yi Zhao's wife was a person of no virtues as she monopolized her husband. As much as they tried, the pair of mother-daughter weren't able to avoid the coming quarrel. With the secret provocation of people with ulterior motives, the fifth prince's shu daughter accidentally pushed Di Wu Yi Zhao's little daughter into the lotus pond. The latter afterward fell seriously ill.
Di Wu Yi Zhao was a very protective person. His beloved wife and little daughter were off limits! How could someone as smart as him not see through the intrigue? Yet, as he was unwilling to let both his wife and daughter suffer any grievances. Because of this incident, he devised a plan to leave unscathed for good together with his family and never come back. Mu Xi Yao suspected that sixth prince Zhong Zheng Lin had a hand in it.
Since she has recalled this incident, she ought to not to miss this opportunity. When she carefully calculated the time, it was exactly this month. Di Wu Yi Zhao and his family were coming to Qingzhou to visit a friend. On the sixteenth, his wife and daughter will go to Fahua Temple located on the outskirt of the city to offer an incense and pray.
As Mu Xi Yao entered Yingshui Pavilion, she instructed Hui Lan to summon one person.
A half joss stick time later3, a tall young man walked inside with a quick pace. He stopped before Mu Xi Yao to give her a respectful bow. This person owned a pair of clear eyes and a strong muscular build. His footsteps were steady and vigorous, he had obviously practiced the martial art.
This person was younger brother of Mu Jin Zhen's personal bodyguard Zhao Yun, Zhao Qing. Aged 21. Usually, when Mu Xi Yao made her outings, Zhao Qing accompanied her as her bodyguard. Mu Jin Zhen, henceforth, simply assigned him to Mu Xi Yao, making him partly Yingshui Pavilion's person. Ever since she got Zhao Qing, she would take him along every time she set out, as well as send him to buy things or handle some matters for her whenever she needed. After a year of observation, she found Zhao Qing to be loyal, capable and possessing an agile mind. The rare thing was that he not only knew martial arts but also could read. He has shown himself to be a person of worth. This time, she has sought him due to an important matter.
"This time, I called you due to a matter I need you to take care of for me." It was unusual to see Mu Xi Yao sitting properly with an expression that was serious and quite solemn. Moreover, she made all the serving maidservants retreat.
This was Zhao Qing's first time seeing the second miss behaving in such a cautious way. He immediately went on high alert, attentively waiting for her instructions.
Mu Xi Yao said, "This matter is very important. You mustn't tell it to sir, even if he asked. Beside me, the only other person can know. Are you able to accomplish it?"
What did that "the only other person" mean? Did it mean that except Mu Xi Yao, Zhao Qing was the only person to know?
After a moment of hesitation, Zhao Qing dared to look at Mu Xi Yao. Subsequently, he lowered his head to give a bow, "Zhao Qing will do everything in his power to fulfill the given task." Zhao Qing gave it a serious consideration before replying.
Ever since sir Mu had appointed him to second miss, almost two years have passed. Zhao Qing was a bright man, so he naturally detected some clues. Usually, when the second miss stayed in her Yingshui Pavilion, she acted differently than how she was before her elders. The fact that she was able to, at such a young age, manage her courtyard without one drop leaking out4 showed that she wasn't as innocent and naive as she appeared. Zhao Qing sometimes felt that he was unable to see through this second miss who was just about to turn thirteen. It was as if what he saw was just a pretense.
When the second miss was assigning the tasks in her courtyard, it apparently wasn't because she was interested in doing so. It was more like there was some connection between the two, people just couldn't see it. Even though Zhao Qing had such odd thoughts, he had never mentioned them to others, he only put his heart on completing the errands his mistress gave him. This was exactly the reason why Mu Xi Yao has solely hand-picked him.
"On the sixteenth day of this month, I will go to Fahua Temple…" Mu Xi Yao gave Zhao Qing details about the preparations that will be needed to arrange on that very day.
The more he heard, the wider his eyes got. Yet, he asked no questions. He silently memorized what was instructed to him then bowed and retreated.
—–
On the sixteenth, the sky was clear. The early winter sun was warm, lifting people's mood.
Mu Xi Yao, with her crew of bodyguards and maidservants, bid farewell to lady Yu. Afterward, she climbed into the carriage and the group set out to Fahua Temple.
Today, Mu Xi Yao deliberately dressed up. She masked her usual lazy sensuality and, instead, adopted an appearance of an official's daughter and a young lady from a noble household. The garments she wore were all of the best quality from Qingzhou. Even the pink embroidered brocade cloak she was wearing and the fragrance used on top of it came from Tiao Xiang House's newly launched brand "Ting Zhi".
The maidservants inside the rear carriage were all neatly dressed. All of them looked gracious and vivid, yet not flamboyant. The bodyguards were also carefully selected. They were tall and sturdy, wearing unifiedly dark cyan colored apparels, which made them look full of vigor. Zhao Qing among them was especially outstanding.
After arriving at the foot of a mountain where Fahua Temple was located, Mu Xi Yao exited from the carriage. She adjusted her expression so that she looked like she was truly coming here to make a wish and pray for Buddha's protection over her family, that everything may go smoothly for them and they may enjoy a good health.
As the only insider, Zhao Qing was following behind the womenfolk. He peeked a glance at his miss who had a particularly sincere, pure and dignified expression. He acted normally like the rest. However, inside, he had a difficult time keeping on the bluff.
At the entrance to the temple, Mu Xi Yao made guards wait for her outside while bringing along with her the maidservants. Once inside, she only naturally performed praying rituals, shook fortune sticks and then sent Hui Lan to give alms. Henceforth, she has gone through all the formalities. She stayed for the afternoon meal in the temple, consuming the Buddhistic food. She rested for a while and then reckoning it was time, took her people and left.
At the door, Zhao Qing saw his second miss coming out. He instructed others to follow him. Soon, the group of people slowly descended from the mountain. Zhao Qing was curious as to why did second miss take such great pain to make these arrangements.
Moreover, she had set up two hoodlums on the road. Who did she want to hinder? Although he acted under her commands, he didn't know the reasons behind. While he was pondering, a sudden commotion from distance reached their ears.
A glint flashed through Mu Xi Yao's eyes. She wasn't in a hurry to rush over there. She still behaved in the steady, well-bred young lady-like manner, who wasn't aware of the situation ahead. She turned around and instructed Zhao Qing to take along some people and go to check the situation.
Translator's notes:
[1] Push the boat with the current means to take advantage of the situation for one's own benefit
[2] Visiting card is a name card ancient people used when visiting others
[3] A half joss stick time – since one joss stick time (depending on the author) may generally last either 5 minutes or 30 minutes, a half joss stick time may be 2.5 – 15 minutes
[4] Not letting one drop leak out is an idiom meaning without missing a single circumstance, flawless, no errors