Higher Level Wife

by Usui Takumii

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

4. 31 to 40

"For Madam to come to my place, is there anything you wish to instruct?" Feeling suspicious, Fu Qiuning planted herself firmly in front of the unwanted visitors, clearly indicating that she had no intention of inviting these women into her house. If they had something to say, they had better just say it there.

However, Jiang Wanying had no intention of complying. She stared right at Fu Qiuning and with a little smile said, "Elder sister, aren't you going to invite me in to sit for a little while? It's been years since our last meeting. Just two days ago, Lord Husband even bragged about elder sister's virtuous nature and how well you have brought up those children. Is their special way of greeting guests your doing too?"

Now that she had directly indicated her intention, Fu Qiuning had no choice but to play along. Moreover, it was not like she could not guess the reason for their sudden appearance on her doorstep. While cursing Jin Fengju colourfully in her heart, she stepped aside with a smile, "If sister does not disdain this place for being crude, please, come in." She turned to Yu Jie, "Serve tea."

Since Fu Qiuning said [1] 'serve tea' instead of 'serve the good tea', Yu Jie understood the unspoken hint and accepted the order with a quiet word before hurrying away. Fu Qiuning led Jiang Wanying to the living room and Jiang Wanying introduced all the concubines one by one to Fu Qiuning. Fu Qiuning played along and accepted their greetings before inviting them to sit.

The concubines all sat down. However, their attention was mostly on the two children beside her. Seeing their attention on the children, [1] she amended her theory and cursed Jin Fengju some more. Outwardly, she smiled, "Perhaps the Madams might have forgotten. A few years ago, these two children were sent to my place to be raised under my name. When Lord Husband came the other day, he found that they looked similar to him when he was a child, took a liking to them and thus spoke to them a little longer. He has not been back since."

[1] Look! She wanted to scream at these women, please rest assured that this is all a misunderstanding, okay? He's only been here twice, also please don't forget that I've been thrown in here to survive or die on my own for years now. Even if your husband suddenly comes to see me, what are two visits compared to his favour on you guys?!

While she was busy cursing a certain person's harem, Yu Jie arrived with the tea. However, when she finally registered just how many people were in the living room, she became a little flustered. Finally, she set the tea things down and served Fu Qiuning and Jiang Wanying first.

How could Jiang Wanying miss this opportunity to reprimand Fu Qiuning's staff? Raising a delicate eyebrow, she said, "The rest of the people here are all Lord Husband's concubines and lesser concubine, do not be neglectful. Bring in more tea."

[1] Yu Jie sweated a little but could only answer in a small voice, "Madam, we don't have enough teacups. There are only these two. One for the guest, and one for Madam. Now that there are so many people here, if they do not mind, the kitchen still has a few crude porcelain bowls."

"No need to trouble yourself," Xu'shi waved her fan slowly, her eyes flashing over to the content of Jiang Wanying's cup. Her smile filled with schadenfreude as she snickered to herself: Just what is that strange smell? How could there be such an odd smelling tea? Humph, I'd like to see how you drink it.

Jiang Wanying looked into her teacup but could not identify the Green Plum Herb leaves as any kind of tea she had ever seen. She managed a couple of sips before her hands wavered, trying to decide between holding the cup and keeping up the pretence of appreciating the tea or putting it away from herself. In the end, she lowered the cup and cleared her throat with a little smile, "There's no particular reason for our visit. We're only here to sit for a little while and exchange some gossip. Your place is so far away that it is too easily overlooked. I fear, I have been so busy that I had quite forgotten that anyone was living in Night Breeze Pavilion. I really can't think why Lord Husband would suddenly think of coming here. Can you think of a reason for him to be here?"

Fu Qiuning thought: Well, looks like none of them has any respect for me, ah, to deal such a difficult hand as the opening move. She took a sip of her tea first before smiling back, "I appreciate the visit. Although Night Breeze Pavilion is far away, we have already lived here for many years. I have long since treated this quiet and tranquil place like a 'Peach Garden in a Foreign Land [2]'. Usually, we don't even bother to open the door to this courtyard but, one day the Lord Marquis suddenly appeared and called for the children to open the door!

He came in and sat for a while, had some tea and left without saying much. Oh, he also asked to see the children write a few words for him. Two days later, papers, brushes and inkstones were sent to our place. I expect he must have pitied the children and wanted to encourage their education. It is truly nothing much."

When Jiang Wanying and the others heard this, they all breathed a quiet sigh of relief. Privately, they thought: So it's like this. Lord Husband must have come here by chance and entered Night Breeze Pavilion for some reason and was impressed by the children. The second visit was just to bestow papers to them. If we had not angered him, he might not even have come here personally to do so. This is good. However, there is still a chance that this woman is lying.

At this, they all narrowed their eyes and began to study Fu Qiuning more closely. With her average pretty face, lack of make up and dressed from head to toe in old clothing as well as those two cringing by her side children, the women in the room suddenly felt a little idiotic for thinking these people a threat. Jiang Wanying said a few more words, but once she determined that she could get no useful information out of these people, she prepared herself to leave.

As she stood up, her eyes fell upon the pots of herbs and flowers rustling gently on the window sill. Mint, jasmine, vanilla, dill and more, scented the room with their unique fragrance without the cloying sensation of incense. The tender greens looked very sweet, cute and full of life. For a moment she paused and thought: The Old Madam has always liked these kinds of plants. Though this room is filled with fragrance, it does not contain the vulgar heaviness of incense. As she continued to study the plants, she thought: apologies for letting you suffer disgrace and neglect but these flowers are perfect as gifts for the Old Madam to decorate her rooms for the Dragon Boat Festival. To prevent myself from suffering any losses, why don't I 'Borrow Flowers to offer Buddha [3]'?

Pleased with herself, she smiled at Fu Qiuning, "Elder sister, these pots of aromatic plants look very good and refreshing. [a] Unlike myself who have to scent my rooms with incense, it's better to scent the rooms with these things during summer and autumn. They are very pleasing to the eye too. Unfortunately, I have no talent for raising them."

As soon as she opened her mouth, Fu Qiuning knew what this person was aiming for. However, when she thought about it a bit more: Weren't these just some regular flowers and plants? None of them was particularly rare or expensive but why should she bow her head and let this Jiang Wanying, who clearly looked down on her, have them?

In the end, she decided to feign ignorance and disregard the hint, "It's not like I have any special talent for pants. It's fine to just water them once a day. When it's all said and done, these are not some precious plants or flowers. There's no need to exert so much effort over them. There must be lots of these plants outside that are a hundred times better looking than mine. If Madam likes it, I'm sure you can easily buy one or two pots to raise."

Fu Qiuning's message to Jiang Wanying was clear to anyone with half a brain. Wei, just how poor are you to covet my cheap plants? Just get someone to buy a couple of pots back for you.

For Jiang Wanying who had always held herself high above others, even when she fought those concubines secretly and openly, all she had ever lost was a little face over a battle of words. In reality, her birth status was beyond theirs, so what is a little loss of face to earn the title of 'virtuousness'?

Nevertheless, to maintain this virtuous face, she had to endure not taking whatever she wanted from these lowly concubines even though it was within her right to do so. It was painful having to 'Resign Herself to Part with a Treasure' [4] for the sake of maintaining a virtuous face. In retaliation, she made sure to grab hold of the family's financial power. To date, [b] she had never suffered such obvious disrespect as the pointed retort from Fu Qiuning. Therefore, how could she swallow it? Especially when those other concubines were clearly delighting over her injury and secretly applauding this Fu woman's guts?

Well, the more you wish to hold on, the more I want to grab, thought Jiang Wanying arrogantly. With a pleasant smile on her face, she strode over to stroke the plants on the window sill and said, "How could anything outside be compared to what elder sister has? I especially like these lively little pots of plants here. Elder sister, are you saying you can't bear to part with them?"

She flashed a meaningful glance at Fu Qiuning and added lightly, "I see that sister's place is rather poor, if sister could bear to forsake these plants, perhaps this little sister could remember this place a little better. Surely there's no need to keep living a life so austere where you cannot even afford a sip of good tea."

The more she spoke, the more disgusted Fu Qiuning became. Her reply was cold, "My children and I are used to such austere lives. We are also used to this kind of tea. I'm afraid we cannot afford to live a life of luxury. These plants are raised according to our coarse and simple lifestyle, so, how could they enter Madam's eyes? What's more, I only have these few pots of plants here. Once I give them to Madam, what should I do? We aren't used to the smell of incense here. Only a noble daughter born of a great house could afford such incense."

Jiang Wanying's face flashed between red and white. When had she ever heard such tit-for-tat words before? She laughed coldly and said, "Why does Elder Sister begrudge me this? You have such big flower beds in your courtyard and the ones I wanted are only these. At worst, even if I do take these plants away, surely Elder Sister could just dig up more from the garden and replace them? If you lack flower pots, isn't it fine if I have people send some over later? Or, could it be? Elder Sister is unwilling to grant me this bit of face?"

Fu Qiuning nearly spat up a mouthful of blood. Silently, she cursed: Enough already, looks like I've just seen what real a 'thick-face' looks like. Compared to this level of shamelessness, Jin Fengju suddenly looked more like an innocent guy. Thinking of Jin Fengju reminded her that she was still living under other people's eaves. Aside from herself, she still had to think of the safety and wellbeing of the two children under her care. In the end, she just sighed and swallowed her anger to say, "Since Madam said so, take them."

Jiang Wanying did not feel as though she had acted shamelessly at all. Instead, she felt great pride at having triumphed over her opponent. To think that this hateful abandoned woman dared to try and appear proud and dignified in front of a true noble like her, but look! Even this so-called Official Wife has to bow her head to me in the end. Happily, her laughter ringing like silver bells in the room, she nodded condescendingly at Fu Qiuning and said, "That's right, many thanks to Elder Sister. Qiu Xia, have the maids take all these away. The plants have all been carefully raised, be sure not to damage them even a little."

"Mother."

The two siblings, Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao, watched with wide eyes as the plants they had repotted with their own hands were taken away just like that. Their hearts were unwilling as they tugged at the corners of Fu Qiuning's clothes. Fu Qiuning looked down at them and smiled, her hands covering theirs, tightening slightly in comfort. The children stopped speaking.

It was only after the people left that Jin Changjiao finally looked up with reddened eyes to say, "Mother, they took everything away. Not even a single pot is left. These are all the plants we raised, what right do they have to take them?"

"By right of being the true masters of this place, as the wives and concubines of the Young Marquis," said Fu Qiuning indifferently. She pulled the children along and sat down with them. Still holding Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao's little hands, she said solemnly, "Today, you have encountered the so-called 'strong people'. As people who live under the eaves of their house, we must bow our heads to them. It's not worth putting ourselves in danger for the sake of a few plants and flowers. That is why mother let them take the plants away.

After experiencing today's events, you should understand that sometimes, it is better to endure. Whether we should endure something or not depends on the situation. For example, if today they wanted us to kneel before them, to bow, scrape and flatter them, it is better to die than to do so. However, the only thing they insisted on was a few pots of plants, therefore it is fine to just endure it. Do you understand Mother?"

Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao both nodded to show they understood. Then, Jin Changfeng added with a smile, "Mother, is this what the ancients meant when they say 'A Good Man Knows What to Do and What Not to Do? This son thinks that it could be seen as 'Knows When to Endure and When Not to Endure'."

Fu Qiuning stroked Jin Changfeng's head and laughed, "My Little Feng'er could 'Raise One and Infer Three [1]', very good. Tonight, I shall cook Braised Meat for you."

Jin Changjiao suddenly chimed up eagerly, "I can Raise One and Infer Three too! I can do it too! I want Mother's Chicken Stew with Dried Mushrooms."

"Oh? What kind of inferences has Jiao'er made?" Fu Qiuning held back her laughter as she pinched Jin Changjiao's round cheeks. The little girl pouted and said seriously, "When they moved all the flower pots away, I thought of the story mother told us about Locusts Passing By. I think they are just the same as those locusts, only they don't have wings so they can't grab the pots and fly away, so they had to make Mother give them the flowers. Otherwise, they would have snatched the flowerpots and immediately fly away with them!"

"Locusts… Passing By?" Fu Qiuning was stunned. She carefully thought back to how Jiang Wanying's maidservants had triumphantly [2] swept through the room and swept out again with the flowerpots behind their mistress, who had breezed out of the courtyard in a stately procession… like a locust queen leading a group of… colourful locusts…

Suddenly, not only Fu Qiuning but Aunt Yu, Yu Jie and even Jin Changfeng started to laugh. Jin Changjiao looked at them blankly before puffing up her cheeks and demanded, "What's so funny? I didn't say they were locusts, I just say they are missing a pair of wings. That's right, I forgot to say their heads are bigger than locusts and- and… I forgot the rest…"

Fu Qiuning saw that Jin Changjiao's little face was bright red with anger, arms akimbo, nearly puffing with anger like a bullfrog. She held back her smile and leaned down to comfort her, "Yes, yes, our Jiao'er is correct. That was a large group of locusts, a large group of big locusts. Well, well, well, looks like I shall have to make Chicken Stew with Mushrooms tonight. Oh, but what about our courtyard rules? There cannot be two meat dishes on the table, therefore, Feng'er, shall we dispense with the Braised pork? Is that alright?"

Jin Changfeng puffed up his chest and nodded vigorously, "Of course, the elder brother should give way to his little sister. That's what mother taught me."

At this, Jin Changjiao looked a little embarrassed. Fu Qiuning looked at this pair of siblings, stood up to smile at Aunt Yu, "Look at those well-clothed, well-fed people just now. Are their lives truly ten times, a hundred times better than ours? Though we live in the same estate, are their lives are as comfortable and happy as ours? Come, it's time to kill a chicken."

Aunt Yu and Yu Jie happily agreed with smiles on their faces as the ladies made their way to the backyard to prepare the promised chicken dish. Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao headed towards the study, not needing Fu Qiuning to supervise them as they went off to practise calligraphy on their own.

Please read this at kitchennovel dot com ~

Now then, let's take a look at what Jiang Wanying was up to.

After snatching the pots of aromatic plants away, she immediately ordered her servants to head straight for Health & Longevity Court. Old Madam Jin just happened to be chatting with a few other older people from other houses in the clan when Jiang Wanying sailed in with the servants bearing the potted aromatic plants. A faint fragrance followed after them causing everyone to stand up and investigate. Old Madam Jin, seated on the kang bed, looked on curiously, "Wan girl, what have you brought in?"

Jiang Wanying hurried over to greet the Old Madam with a smile, "Old Madam, these are aromatic plants. Don't you think they smell good? They are even better than the usual cut flowers in vases."

At this, the Old Madam said with interest, "Oh? Is that so? Quick, bring them over for me to see."

Jiang Wanying ordered her people to bring over the pots of flowers and plants. Old Madam studied them for quite a long time, saying how these aromatic plants were really quite beautiful, how fresh they look. Delighted, Old Madam pointed at some jasmine and said, "I know these are jasmine, but what about the others? Moreover, they smell really good, even better than incense."

Old Madam's question left Jiang Wanying dumbfounded. She only recognised the jasmine, but as for the others? She quickly laughed and said, "I encountered them and thought they looked good and brought them to honour Old Madam. Who knows what they are called? It's just some aromatic plants. I'm sure Old Madam only found them interesting because they are new. After a while, surely they can't look better than fresh flowers?"

[Gumihou: I've seen a lot of comments from Novelupdates that derided FQN's 'soft' attitude and how she does not act like a modern woman at all and did not stand up fiercely enough for herself. Here's the thing, she has to consider not just herself but the two children under her care. If she acts too roughly, what are the possibilities that the children would be bullied or taken away? It's one thing to be like Su Nuan Nuan when she only has herself to consider but in this story, the MC has to consider the kids too.]

Think of the children!

[1] Raise One & Infer Three – Make deductions or inferences from one idea. Capable of advanced thought

[2] Gumi has… exaggerated this scene…

The Old Madam laughed at this, "Oh no, don't say that. I liked these plants very much. They are all very lush and lovely, their bright green colour makes one feel at ease just looking at them, especially when you took such trouble to show your filial piety. While a potted plant might not cost much, to me it meant you must have been thinking of me and knew just how much I like them."

She had barely finished speaking when the old servants and other older madams around her all began to chime in, "Isn't it true? There's no one as filial as Second Madam. Usually, she would send up a plate of snacks for Old Madam ever so often. Today, when she saw the potted plants, the first person she thought of was Old Madam. Though these are just some small things, it's rare to see this kind of thoughtful filial piety from the younger generations, ah."

The praises came in waves, causing Jiang Wanying's heart to swell with elation. However, she feigned modesty and murmured, "The Madams overpraised me, how would I dare?"

Old Madam Jin immediately had people display the potted plants in the most conspicuous locations in the room. Because she considered them precious, she even ordered people to water the plants immediately. Seeing how much the Old Madam liked the potted plants, Jiang Wanying grew more and more proud of herself and chatted a bit more before happily taking her leave. [1] Not only did she successfully force that despicable Fu Qiuning to swallow a loss, but that woman's plants made for excellent wedding clothes too.

Please read this at kitchennovel dot com

[2] Let's leave that childish woman alone and return to Night Breeze Pavilion for now.

In fact, Fu Qiuning had quite a lot of plants and flowers in her garden. Therefore, she did not really feel the loss of those plants as there were plenty more duplicates growing in her courtyard. Still, she did not like Jiang Wanying or her snobbish attitude.

Right now, she was slaughtering a chicken in the backyard with Aunt Yu and Yu Jie. That was why she was not there to prevent Jin Fengju and Jin Ming from catching sight of Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao digging up plants with their little trowels. The men stepped in to find the pair of children squatting by a flower bed, a row of flower pots already half-filled with soil beside them. They appeared to be very focused on whatever they were doing.

Jin Fengju turned to Jin Ming, "Take these to Madam first."

Jin Ming, who was carrying an armful of fish, meat, vegetables, ham and other assorted groceries, hurried off to the house at his master's orders to look for Fu Qiuning. Jin Fengju approached the two children and saw they were carefully digging up a plant. Curious, he asked, "What are you doing? Are you not afraid of your mother scolding you when she finds out?"

The two children had been so immersed in their task that they had not noticed Jin Fengju until then. At the sound of his voice, both of them jumped. Jin Changjiao miss-stepped and nearly fell onto the flower bed. Jin Fengju quickly caught her and, supporting an equally surprised Jin Changfeng, he gave a little hehe chuckle, "Why so surprised? Have you already forgotten Father's voice? To be startled to this point?"

When Jin Changjiao saw it was him, she gave a little cheer and hugged his waist but quickly quieted down with a blush after remembering her mother's lecture. She let go of Jin Fengju and stood properly with Jin Changfeng, who had jumped out of the flower bed. The twins put their hands together and bowed neatly, "This child greets father."

"En, no need to be so courteous. We are family after all, there's no need for all this courteousness." Jin Fengju went over to personally help the children up. He knew very well that although the two children were affectionate towards him, it was only through the indelible nature of a parent and their children. In fact, they were still wary of him and felt a sense of alienation against him. If not for the many things he had bestowed to this courtyard, things that these children liked, they would probably not even have achieved this level of intimacy.

It was perfectly normal, after all. These children were already seven or eight years old and, if it were not for Fu Qiuning, who knew whether they would still be alive or not. To achieve this level of intimacy after having only seen them a few times was already considered quite rare.

Each time Jin Fengju thought of this, his heart would be filled with equal parts guilt and gratefulness to Fu Qiuning. Naturally, he understood that the wariness felt by these children was not a product of hatred, but a fear of their father's indifference. They were afraid to invest too much emotion only to be abandoned by him for another five or six years.

Therefore, he was truly grateful to Fu Qiuning. Grateful that she did not sow seeds of hatred in these children's young hearts for the cruel and unjust treatment all those years. Grateful that he could still stand beside these two children as a father, to hear them laugh and chat with him instead of retreating at the sight of him.

"Father, won't you stay for lunch today?" Whatever sense of alienation the children might have felt earlier had disappeared and they were as intimate as before. In the end, they were still little children who craved the love and attention of their father. Moreover, they had no idea that their mother wished with all her heart to avoid this 'Plague Bringer' and instinctively tried to coax him to stay. If Fu Qiuning knew what these two had been doing behind her back, she would probably spit up blood in anger.

"Why?" Of course, Jin Fengju already had plans to stay for lunch. However, when his children pleaded so prettily with him today, he could not help feeling a little curious. He knew that the children had not seen what Jin Ming carried with him today and therefore would have no idea that their cupboards would soon be supplemented. Since Changjiao had specifically invited him for lunch, there must be a reason.

"Because Jiao'er performed very well today, so Mother is very pleased and promised to make Stewed Chicken with Mushrooms for Jiao'er. Father, you must stay and try it." Jin Changjiao sat on Jin Fengju's lap and tugged at his sleeves. "Brother also did very well and made mother so happy that she promised to make him Braised Pork but we don't have a lot of meat at home so brother gave up his turn and let me have my Stewed Chicken with Mushrooms instead. Brother means to indulge me but I won't let him lose out either. Jiao'er will give my chicken legs for brother tonight."

"En, Jiao'er and your elder brother are very sensible," Jin Fengju touched their little heads with relief. Then he said, "Tell me, what did you do that made mother praise you so?"

Excited to tell their story, Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao scrambled over each other to tell him what had happened today. As the story went on, the lines between Jin Fengju's brows grew deeper and their voices lowered out of wariness. When they finally came to the point where Fu Qiuning instructed them on the fine points of patience and endurance as well as how to tell what should be endured and what ought never to be endured, Jin Fengju nodded lightly. At their father's apparent approval, the brother and sister grew more courageous and Jin Changjiao finally told Jin Fengju about her 'performance'.

[3] "I told mother that today's visitors were like 'Locusts Passing By," said Jin Changjiao, obviously very pleased with her own wit.

"Locusts… Passing By?" Jin Fengju was stunned. He turned towards the window sill where rows of little potted plants had once sat but were now completely empty. He could not help the sudden burst of laughter as he touched Jin Changjiao's head. "Jiao'er is right, aren't they similar to a swarm of locusts? No wonder your mother wants to reward you with Stewed Chicken with Mushrooms. Of course, Feng'er's performance is very good too. Therefore, we should also have Braised Pork for lunch today."

"That won't do, Feng'er already said that Feng'er will yield to little sister," Jin Changfeng cried out loudly.

Jin Fengju laughed, "Be at ease. Father had Jin Ming bring some fresh meat over, as well as authentic Jinhua ham [4]. You must try it today." He looked over at the dazzling flower garden and said, "You're here to dig up aromatic plants for the flower pots?"

"Yes, yes," Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao both nodded eagerly.

Jin Fengju pushed up his sleeves and picked up one of the small shovels. "Very well, father will help you. Now speak, which one should we dig up?"

Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao naturally pointed out the desired plants. Jin Fengju dug up the plants under the supervision and instruction of his son and daughter. Together, they transferred several aromatic plants into pots. After transferring a few plants, the children said, "Enough, that's enough. We don't have to dig anymore."

[Gumihou: Bestowed Jiang Wanying with 'No.1 Most Virtuous Wife' award. Many thanks for helping your husband deepen his relationship with his neglected children]

[1] Reference to some Chinese idiom about being cheated and having to make wedding clothes for the enemy or something. Can't seem to find the source

[2] Added transition.

[3] Adjusted for dramatic purpose via dialogue instead of summary.

[4] Jinhua Ham – very selected, very expensive.

"Why? Aren't there still plenty of plants here? Moreover, you still have more flowerpots, so let's keep digging." Jin Fengju already noticed the six or seven more empty flowerpots on the side. He had never done this kind of work before but the repetitive action was somehow rather addictive.

The brother and sister pair suddenly became anxious, "No need, no need, father… for the rest, en, just leave the rest here. The Dragon Boat Festival is coming."

Jin Fengju had no idea what they meant by that. What did digging plants have to do with the Dragon Boat Festival? Nevertheless, he stopped digging and wiped the sweat off his forehead. [1] When the children gathered the potted plants to be watered, he noticed that the mint, peppermint as well as other aromatic herbs had all been skilfully dug up and replanted. As the children watered the plants, he realised just how familiar they were with these actions and could not help but feel a little sad.

In that era, although the social status of peasant farmers was more respectable than those of merchants, they were still well below that of the gentry. Jin Fengju was an aristocrat, a nobleman of high birth, so how could he bear to see his children do such dirty work? Especially now that his impression of these two children had changed.

"You are very skilled at this," he said with a light cough. There was some sadness in his tone but the children did not hear it. They happily accepted the remark as a compliment and gushed, "Yes, yes, father. We do this all the time. This is nothing, you should see the backyard. We have soy, millet, rice, and even sticky rice. Oh, and corn and sweet potatoes. We still have some sticky rice saved from last year. We didn't eat it because we wanted to make rice dumplings for this Dragon Boat Festival. We're the ones who helped mother dig the ground and weed around the rice plants, you know?" the children declared, proudly sticking up their little chests, waiting for their father to praise them.

Jin Fengju looked at the proud expressions of these two children and did not know what to say. Finally, after a long while, he coughed and said, "En, Feng'er and sister are very capable. However, you're not allowed to do this kind of rough work in the future. As you grow up, you should study and learn proper feminine arts such as needlework. I, your father, will take care of your livelihood from now on so there's no need to worry about it." As he spoke, he made up his mind to speak to Fu Qiuning properly. He simply could not allow these two children to keep doing this contemptible work [2].

Nevertheless, he helped the children move the flowerpots into the living room and was in the middle of arranging them when Jin Ming came out of the kitchen to say that everything had been handed to the Madam. Jin Fengju said, "Invite the Madam to see me in the backyard, I have something to say to her."

When Jin Ming saw his master's calm and apathetic face, his heart suddenly shivered. While he quickly went off to carry out his master's orders, Jin Fengju sent the children to the study before making his way to the backyard. After stepping through the backdoor, he saw what was once an empty space was now filled with all kinds of crops. They even had apricot, pear and jujube trees at regular intervals. When a light breeze blew past, the bright green leaves swayed like flowing waves, giving a sense of infinite vitality.

Soft footsteps made Jin Fengju turn his head. He saw Fu Qiuning step forward, clothed in a plain cotton dress. A trace of pity scratched at his conscience at the sight. She had once been a girl of 16 with a future before her but was made into a pawn in one of her father's political struggles. The most tragic thing was, she was doomed to have no future the moment she married into his marquisate.

"It's been hard on you all these years," he said. His voice was light but with a rare trace of sincerity in it.

"That the Young Marquis is gracious enough to allow this humble woman to preserve her life within the marquisate is already a great kindness. This humble woman does not feel any hardship." Fu Qiuning kept her face tranquil as she bowed her head and performed her salutations carefully. However, her heart throbbed like a drum as she secretly wondered: Is this bastard Jin Fengju still planning to divorce me?

Jin Fengju eyed her for a moment before smiling slightly. He turned to face the green scenery before him and said leisurely, "No need to worry, Feng'er and Jiao'er are here due to your careful teaching. Therefore, I will not divorce you. However, you should not develop any thoughts over this."

This bastard's eyes are too powerful. He could see through her thoughts with just a glance. Impressed, Fu Qiuning thought that she should not underestimate this person in the future. She said, "This humble woman's heart is like stagnant water. Young Marquis may be at ease, this humble woman is deeply grateful to preserve this life and these peaceful days. This humble woman would never again be carried away by delusions or wishful thoughts and cause trouble for the Young Marquis."

Jin Fengju was very satisfied with her response, not knowing that Fu Qiuning was bursting with elation at that moment.

In that era, women treated their husbands like gods. Once they were abandoned, they became like lost souls with nothing to live for. However, what were men to Fu Qiuning? So long as she had enough to eat, warm clothes to wear, a man was as dispensable as chicken ribs to her. [1] Yes, it was a good thing that this chicken rib had decided to remove himself from her presence.

[1] Hurrah!

[1] On Jin Fengju's side, he frowned to himself: Why did this woman look like she was trying to conceal her joy? The corners of her mouth kept trying to twitch up… Whatever, that had nothing to do with him. He turned his gaze towards the greenery again and said lightly, "You've suffered much these past few years. It cannot be easy for a few women and children to grow so many kinds of crops and plants. However, there's no need to cultivate these plants in the future. After the Dragon Boat Festival, I thought of moving all of you back to the inner court. You will receive a fixed allowance each month along with food and clothing. There's no need to worry anymore. No matter what, Feng'er and Jiao'er are my children. This kind of dirty work should not touch their hands."

Naturally, Fu Qiuning would never subscribe to this kind of disdainful, discriminatory ideology. However, she also knew that in this era, scholarly pursuits trumped everything else. Therefore, she did not lose her cool nor try to go against him directly. Instead, she gracefully said, "Indeed, we are forced by circumstances to rely on these crops, as well as the flowers and trees in the garden to survive. However, I dare not let the children truly work on the crops. This humble woman merely had them take on simple chores and educate them about the different care and cultivation of various plants.

It is said that the hands of noble children should never be raised in hardship nor their shoulders be strained by rough work. However, this humble woman believes that being too idle is not good for children either. Naturally, it would be best if the children did not have to do these chores. However, if they had not shown promise with learning, they could still cultivate an alternative livelihood through these little chores.

Therefore, after much careful consideration, this humble woman finally decided to let them assist with the work. After all, the three of us adults are enough to take care of these few acres of land."

Finally relieved, Jin Fengju nodded, "You're right, it was my neglect that caused this. For you to consider their future so carefully, shows that you must have sincerely thought about their future. I am grateful for your consideration."

Fu Qiuning's eyes widened with surprise. However, she immediately realised that she must have inadvertently shown her true feelings. She hastily lowered her head and thought: Looks like this Young Marquis is not a complete bastard, ah. To think he would say such a thing to an abandoned wife. Surely it's impossible for such a man to exist in this era? Still, if he was really such a good man, why was he so scummy before?

Jin Fengju was not aware of the doubts in her heart. He felt her current behaviour now was quite adorable, to act so awkwardly after [3] 'the corn already had its ears pulled out'.

With a smile, he turned around and said leisurely, "Since you've worked so hard on it, once you've moved back to the inner court, I shall arrange for someone to take care of this season's crops. You've personally raised these vegetables, therefore, I'm sure they would taste good. The Old Madam enjoys fresh produce like these best."

"… …"

Fu Qiuning understood that she had been too excited about not being divorced when she was struck by this devastating news.

Jin Fengju actually wanted to move her and the children to the inner court!? If he moved them there, what would happen to the leisurely life she had been living until now? [a]

An unfavoured woman who had never shared a room with her husband, yet still carrying the title of Official Wife and dragging two bastard children born of a lowly laundress… even if Jin Fengju had every intention of taking care of them, how long could it last? The hidden battles of the inner court were never something that men could stop.

If he was truly intent on moving her to the inner court, she would rather be divorced, and flee the marquisate with the children, Aunt Yu and Yu Jie and try their luck with whatever theatre troupe they happened to come across. That way, she could at least guarantee that her skills would protect them from being bullied.

"Young Marquis, please hear this humble woman's plea."

Doing her best to hold back the surging emotions in her heart, Fu Qiuning strived to sound calm and reasonable. [a] This was not the time to be hysterical. He would probably dismiss her arguments if she sounded like a spoilt wailing female.

When Jin Fengju turned to look at her, she kept her expression serious and said, "This humble woman does not wish to move to the inner court for reasons that Young Marquis must realise. This humble woman also does not believe that a pampered lifestyle would be good for the children either. In the words of [1] a great sage: Life Springs from Sorrow and Calamity, Death Comes from Ease and Pleasure.

I believe the Young Marquis should understand this truth as well. Feng'er and Jiao'er became what they are due to the hardships they have faced. However, alongside these hardships, their lives here had been relatively carefree and unrestricted by the plots and schemes of other people. There is no need for them to develop trickery to protect themselves. The children are still young and their ways of thinking are not yet set. This humble woman believes that it is not yet time to return to the inner court and respectfully implores the Young Marquis to think thrice."

Jin Fengju fully turned to look at this woman seriously. It was the first time he saw such resolution on her face. Her eyes were clear and honest. This… did not look like a scheme of 'To loosen the reins only to grasp them better' or some other blackmail tactic. That's right, it had already been six years. What kind of woman could carry out a 'To loosen the reins only to grasp them better' scheme so patiently for six years? The fact that this thought occurred to him made him feel like a villain in the face of those honest eyes.

Jin Fengju continued to stand before Fu Qiuning. Their eyes met in the air as her resolve clashed against a searching gaze. A long time later, he nodded and said lightly, "Since you insist, very well, it shall be done as you say."

Fu Qiuning exhaled a long breath. She gave Jin Fengju, who was already stepping through the backdoor into the house, another salute, saying, "This humble woman gives thanks to the Young Marquis for granting this favour."

Jin Fengju's footsteps paused slightly. The corners of the mouth pulled into a faint smile, thinking: Thank me? It is too early to say this.

After taking lunch at Fu Qiuning's place, Jin Fengju had no plans to take naps, but seeing Fu Qiuning's tense face, clearly eager to give him the eviction notice as soon as possible, he leisurely laid down on the kang bed and crossed his legs. "I'm a little tired, so I may as well rest here. Feng'er, Jiao'er, come accompany your father for a nap. You should combine rest and study, be sure not to overly tire yourself."

Fu Qiuning clenched her teeth so hard that she nearly cracked them. From the side, Jin Ming was also staring at the spectacle with a bitter face. He thought: Master, ah, master. Why are you becoming more and more childish? Are you really not aware of how much you have to do? Therefore, he cautiously stepped forward and said, "Master, before you arrive, didn't Miss Ling Long from Elder Madam's place come with the message that the Elder Madam wishes to see you? You also mentioned that you ought to stop by Old Madam's place today."

Jin Fengju glared at Jin Ming, thinking: Why are you in such a hurry? This master of yours still wants to play around a bit, but you just have to spoil my mood. The next time you decide to act so insensitively, I will make sure to kick you out to the farmstead and never let you return for the rest of your life.

While he was cursing this manservant Jin Fengju still got up to dust off his sleeves and said, "Yes, to think I actually forgot about that. Very well, I shall go now. In the future, if you encounter any difficulty, have someone let me know. If I'm not at the marquisate, you may look for… the Elder Madam," he wanted to say 'Madam' but after some thought, with Fu Qiuning still holding the official title of Official Wife and therefore the actual 'Madam' of the house, it would be quite humiliating for her to go looking for the Secondary Wife for any kind of assistance. Therefore, in the end, he changed 'Madam' to 'Elder Madam'.

As he passed through the garden, Jin Fengju's thoughts kept on spinning as his steps took him towards Health & Longevity Court. When Jin Ming noticed, he whispered, "Master, the Elder Madam appears to have something important to speak to you about. Perhaps you should head towards that side first?"

"Do you think I don't know this? Cease with your nonsense. Just how much effort do you think is needed to pay respects to Old Madam? How much time would be taken if Elder Madam wished to discuss something?" with that, he kept walking forward.

Jin Ming thought: Surely the matter is not as simple as that? Perhaps the Master already knew what Elder Madam wished to speak to him about and… was deliberately avoided her?

While he was still speculating, they soon arrived at Health & Longevity Court. When one of the maids saw the Young Master, she quickly smiled and said, "The Old Madam was just thinking about Second Master and look, Master has arrived. Please come in." Then, she stretched out her neck and called, "The Young Marquis has arrived."

When Old Madam Jin heard that her favourite grandson had come over, she was so happy that she called out joyfully, "Let him in, quick!" When she saw Jin Fengju, her smile grew even wider and she said, "You've lost some weight these days, did you not let your wife stew something good to nourish you?"

Jin Fengju laughed and said, "I'm being nourished every day, no need to worry. If this grandson of yours is overly nourished into a fatty, I could break sedan chairs with a 'kacha' one day."

Old Madam laughed heartily and lightly tapped him before he could continue with his nonsense, "You already have so many children and yet you still like to tease me like this."

Jin Fengju gave the plants around the house a seemingly casual glance and let out a sudden laugh, "And here I was wondering where all the flowers and plants at Night Breeze Pavilion went. To think they had all come to Old Madam's place. How strange, the children and their mother never set foot outside their courtyard, so why would they suddenly think of sending gifts to Old Madam?"

"Night Breeze Pavilion?" Old Madam Jin looked at the pots of flowers and plants with a puzzled face. "These were sent over by your wife this morning. She said that she knew I would like them and had specially bought them for me. The fragrance is very good too. But… you, you said they are from Night Breeze Pavilion? Isn't that just a broken down courtyard? I remember that once Hong Xiang was gone, no one lived there anymore."

Jin Fengju laughed again, "Did Old Madam forget? Six years ago, when this grandson got married, Wanying came in as a secondary wife. The official wife was a shu daughter of Prince Zhenjiang. Old Madam should also be clear on why this happened. However, because of these circumstances, I never paid any attention to her after arranging for her to stay inside Night Breeze Pavilion the moment she married in. Aside from arranging for basic needs, this grandson of yours never bothered with her anymore.

A few days ago, I went to her place and noticed the aromatic potted plants and flowers decorating the place. Though they were nothing exotic or precious, the plants were uncommonly lush and lovely, giving the house a vibrant and refreshing feel and thought of Old Madam who likes these things in particular.

I thought to ask for them before the Dragon Boat Festival, but to think that Wanying would be even more thoughtful than I and stole the limelight away from this unworthy grandson of yours. When I return, I must settle accounts with her later."

"Pei, to think such shameless words would leave your mouth. That is your wife you are speaking about. Isn't her filial piety the same as your filial piety? To even think of quarrelling with a woman, are you not afraid of outsiders making fun of you?" Amused and a little angry, Old Madam slapped Jin Fengju lightly on the shoulder. Then, she straightened up and said, "However, now that you've mentioned her, I do have some impression of this woman. I thought you'd long since divorced her. How is she still within the marquisate?

To be fair, her fate is not good. I know she did not choose this life, but we had no choice either. Child, you always did have a sense of propriety. It is already a great kindness on your part to keep her in the marquisate and not force her to return and throw away her life. Why would you go and visit her? If outsiders found out how you are unable to turn your back on even the shu daughter of Prince Zhenjiang, wouldn't they laugh and make fun of you? As for Prince Rong's side, I'm afraid they too would slight you for this."

[Gumihou: This sounds like rich people going 'aww but too bad' over the plight of a poor person while not really understanding what they had really experienced. Which, under this context, is wonderfully executed. Nice job White Pear Blossom!]

Jin Fengju appeared to have anticipated Old Madam's answer. He smiled slightly and said, "Perhaps Old Madam is unaware, but not long after Fu'shi married into the marquisate, the inner court washerwoman died from sickness, leaving the two children without support. Therefore, I sent them to be raised under her name. I was too much of a scoundrel back then. No matter who their mother was, I, as their father, should have taken care of them. Instead, I threw them into Night Breeze Pavilion and never thought of them for the past five years.

A few days ago I suddenly thought of Fu'shi, thinking that it was about time I should divorce her. After all, [1] most of the possible political backlash from divorcing her had all but disappeared by now. Unexpectedly, when I arrived, I heard one child playing the qin, and another the other reciting the writings of the sages out loud. Both were very well-mannered and sensibly greeted a [1] father they had barely seen. That Fu'shi was also very dignified and tranquil. She did not take credit for the children's education, nor attempt to ingratiate herself to this grandson of yours.

Old Madam, what do you think would happen if I simply divorce her? This grandson admits to being ruthless and cruel, however, even I cannot bring myself to do such a shameful thing. Even if I were to [2] Destroy the Bridge after Crossing the River, what of the two children? No matter what, they are still my flesh and blood, and so promising too. Old Madam, who would raise them once Fu'shi is gone? Therefore, I gave up the idea of divorcing that woman in the end. Moreover, though I may have visited the Night Breeze Pavilion several times, it was not to see her but those two children."

"Oh? Such a thing happened?" the Old Madam nodded and said in a low voice, "I vaguely remember those two children. That incident happened due to a drunken mistake. However, that washerwoman was really too ugly and coarse. Women like that aren't even qualified as a bedroom mistress, let alone be admitted into the family registry. I know that you're a strong one and did not interfere much over the matter.

I heard your mother say that a good amount of monthly allowance had been allocated to that person to support herself and the children. That should be a good enough compromise for everyone. I had no idea they had been sent to Fu'shi's place. Are you saying those two children are even more promising than the ones raised in the inner court? I find this a little unbelievable."

"Old Madam, it might be unbelievable but it's the truth. I saw myself in them. Only seven or eight years old, but already so sensible and well-read. Moreover, they are a dragon and phoenix pair. When those two stand together, it is just too eye-catching." At the mention of those two children, Jin Fengju appeared more animated and began to tell Old Madam some little stories about Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao. Old Madam enjoyed the stories very much and could not help but laugh laughed out loud at some parts.

Because the stories were told in such detail, a whole hour passed by with them barely noticing the passing of time. Old Madam was so pleased by the stories that her eyes turned into happy crescents. Finally catching on Jin Fengju's little trick, she scolded, "You little fox. Now that you've brought those two children up, you must have that woman bring the children over for the Dragon Boat Festival. I wish to see just what kind of people they are to charm you into boasting about them like this."

Jin Fengju laughed too, not at all sorry at being caught out. "I am not boasting at all. Old Madam is wise and your eyes are discerning. You will know with one glance that this grandson of yours is not lying. Speaking of which, this grandson ought to retire first. The Elder Madam had asked to speak with me. It's rare for me to be at home, to think I'd still be so busy."

Old Madam broke in and scolded with a laugh, "You already know that it's rare for you to be at home, yet you still don't cherish your time with your mother and have the cheek to complain instead."

Jin Fengju laughed and said his goodbyes once more before leaving the Old Madam for Madam Jiang's place.

Once he entered Madam Jiang's house, a maid informed him that the Elder Madam was at the Buddhist Hall and asked Jin Fengju to wait for a while. So, he sat down in a chair and sipped at the tea served by the maid. Not long after that, Madam Jiang appeared from behind the screen. Jin Fengju got up to give his greetings but Madam Jiang bade him to sit back down.

"I have asked you to come today because I have something I wish you to do. In fact, this is something that should have been done long ago. It's just that so many years have passed that I've forgotten about it." Madam Jiang, said as she slowly sipped at her tea, making sure to study her son's face carefully.

However, Jin Fengju's face remained as still as water, which raised Madam Jiang's suspicion even more. Privately, she thought: Had Jin Fengju already known what I wanted him to do? How can this be? It's not like he's a [3] parasite in my belly, with access to all my thoughts. That's right, this child had always been indifferent to emotions and rarely showed anger or pleasure. It's a matter of habit by now.

"If Mother has anything to say, please speak." Jin Fengju prompted and took another sip of tea when it looked like Madam Jiang was not about to speak yet.

Madam Jiang pondered for a long while before saying in a solemn voice, "That Fu woman. Back then, Prince Hong and Prince Zhenjiang deliberately stuffed her at you to humiliate our marquisate and ruin our relationship with Prince Rong. Just what qualifications does a woman like her have to occupy the position of an official wife? Your cousin came from such prominent background, but for you, she lowered her expectations and married in as a secondary wife. How long do you plan to let her suffer?"

Jin Fengju smiled mildly, "And here I was wondering what great urgency mother has for calling me over? To think it turned out to be this. Surely my cousin had not suffered much? Though she married in as a secondary wife, in this marquisate, who doesn't treat her like an official wife? Those who saw her all paid proper respects and addressed her as Madam. All the properties under my name are under her control. Aside from the formality of a mere title, have I neglected her in any way? What is this suffering that mother mentioned?"

When Madam Jiang heard this, her heart sank and her face grew unsightly. She set her cup down slowly and said, "What are you trying to say? Back then, we were humiliated because we lacked power. Later, we were unable to back down once we advanced into this mess. However, the situation is different now. Although your brother-in-law is not favoured, Prince Hong and Prince Lie are busy struggling against each other. Where would they find the time to bother with our marquisate? You are now someone the emperor favoured the most. Moreover, you have been the imperial envoy for three years, right?

It's already too late for Prince Hong to try and pull us into his faction, so why are you still hesitating over whether to divorce that person? You say that Wanying is missing a mere title, but do you know just how important a title is to a woman's status? I don't care what your reasons are, no matter what, you must swear an oath to me. Swear to divorce that Fu woman."

"Once I divorce Fu'shi, what will happen to the two children?"

"What two children?" For a moment, Madam Jiang was confused. However, she soon recalled the existence of the twins and snorted coldly, "Those two cheap bastards can be dumped into any random farmstead. You still want to keep them in the estate? Don't forget, you used to get angry to the point of spitting up blood whenever that washerwoman and her brats were are mentioned. Why are you bringing them up now?"

Jin Fengju's expression sank slightly. He said in a low voice, "Mother, you should also pay attention to what you say. No matter what, the children are my flesh and blood. Their mother might be lowborn, but half their blood still flowed from me. There can be no doubt about that. Fu'shi had educated the two children very well and I now feel both love and guilt for them. I do not know how to compensate them for their years of suffering. Yet, my own mother, a kind and devoted Buddhist would come forth to personally press me to divorce my wife and abandon my children.

Have you completely lost your compassion? They are nothing but orphans and widows who depended on each other to survive. Once separated, not only would they lose their loved ones, they might even starve to death. Not to mention, that Prince Zhenjiang does not care about his daughter at all. Once she is divorced, isn't she as good as dead?"

Madam Jiang's anger boiled over in her heart. However, she resisted the urge to show it openly on her face and asked in an equally sombre voice, "Then, according to you, we should let that Fu'shi stay here, in our marquisate, for the rest of her life? What of your cousin? Is she to live with the title of secondary wife until she dies? No matter what, she's the granddaughter of the Duke of Lu. Her status alone makes her good enough to marry into the palace as an imperial concubine, and yet, she married out as a secondary wife. Now, ask yourself, have you done right by her?"

Jin Fengju was perfectly indifferent, "How I treat my cousin, she should know best. Mother should ask her whether I've wronged her all these years. Aside from the title, which was the consequence of incidents out of our hands, how else have I wronged her? I threw Fu'shi into Night Breeze Pavilion for six years. She lived a poor and destitute life there and yet still managed to educate two children into proper talents. Owing to her virtue and achievements, I cannot in good conscience divorce her. I shall explain to my brother-in-law personally about this in the future. Aside from these, does mother have anything else to say? If there is nothing, I shall return first."

"Are you refusing to listen to mother now?!"

Jing Fengju had always appeared gentle, yet oddly unyielding. He would follow along with whatever his parents decided, so long as it was not something he was fully against. However, once he had made up his mind, it was difficult for his parents to change it. Generally, this was a common problem with particularly promising children.

In short, he had already made up his mind to dismiss Madam Jiang's request even before she voiced them. As his mother, Madam Jiang realised this too and knew that he would most likely not bow to her wishes. However, this did not deter her from going for the emotional route and said with tears in her eyes, "How do you expect me to explain this to your uncle in the future? Do you truly want his daughter, a nble and dignified granddaughter of the Duke of Lu, to be your secondary wife for the rest of her life?" As though overwhelmed by her own words, she burst into wretched sobs.

Jin Fengju looked at his mother, feeling amused and bitter at the same time. His mother had enjoyed a life of great wealth and status all her life, had she not? As for Jiang Wanying, she had everything except for the title of 'Official Wife'. In contrast, Fu'shi had nothing except for the empty title of 'Official Wife'. Even having such a title was basically a humiliation to her. Comparing these two… he sighed and thought: the human heart really doesn't know how to be satisfied, ah.

"There's no need for tears, mother. You must know your son's character. If uncle wishes to blame someone, you may send him my way and let him scold me." With this final remark, Jin Fengju stood up. "If there's nothing else, this son will retire."

"Y-you… did you see this? Did you all see this?!" Madam Jiang stared at Jin Fengju's disappearing back and began to howl and cry even more. She turned to the dowry maid by her side, now the stewardess, and cried, "How did I give birth to such a heartless thing? Now he won't even listen to me. To think he'd turn on me for the daughter of a deadly enemy. Wh- what have I done to deserve this?"

"Elder Madam, please don't say that," the stewardess, Lin Sanjia, said with a quick smile. "The Young Marquis is so promising. Still young, yet already the emperor's favourite. Who knows how many lifetimes of blessings Elder Madam must have accumulated to beget such a wonderful son. Although he did not appear to listen to Elder Madam, this one also heard that the Young Marquis would often get into arguments with the emperor. Therefore, it's inevitable for him to be a little arrogant.

What's more, for the Young Marquis to say this, he must have given the matter a lot of thought. Just think, Elder Madam, isn't the Young Marquis very filial to you? Haven't you always said that of all the sons and daughters around, the Young Marquis is the most filial? Moreover, it's not just lip service filial piety. Therefore, surely there's no reason to get upset over such a trivial matter?

Also, that Fu'shi is only an official wife in name only. Though the Young Marquis' cousin holds the title of Secondary Wife, she is still a wife and the one with the real power in the family. What of the official wife in name? In the future, when the emperor bestows the First Rank title to noble wives, could lady cousin even run away from it? When the time comes, would not everyone congratulate her for her great fortune? Once the news gets back to her maternal family's house, would not everyone sigh with relief? Why argue so unhappily with the Young Marquis over such a trivial matter and spoil a good mother and son relationship?"

This Lin Sanjia really knew how to talk. Words unfolded eloquently, relieving a lot of the Elder Madam's anger and anxiety. The maid's words made a lot of sense. This was her son, after all, so how could she not understand his nature? He was just this kind of person. After wiping her tears, she sighed quietly, "How could you understand me? If it is as you've said, it would be very good. I'm just afraid that Fu woman would use some unusual means to attract Fengju's heart. Wanying had always been a little proud and straightforward. If Fengju is really hooked away by that Fu woman… aih! How can I be at peace?"

Lin Sanjia quickly smiled and say, "Isn't this just some unfounded worry? What is Fu'shi's status? What is our lady cousin's status? Moreover, the two children under her knees are not birthed by her. Our lady cousin has borne two children with the Young Marquis. What's more, Fu'shi's looks are only pretty in the most conventional sense. Just what unusual means could she have?

Just think. It has already been six years, if she had any genuine means, would she wait until now to use it? Elder Madam may set your mind at ease. I believe Madam is too close to the situation; this maid, as a bystander, sees things more clearly. No matter what, our Young Marquis will always do what makes Elder Madam happy. He has a good nature and unlike the cold-hearted people of his generation, he must have been moved by Fu'shi's action of adopting the two children and was overwhelmed by compassion. This is just some common courtesy, what is there to worry about?"

Madam Jiang let her maid keep talking until she finally felt relieved enough to smile.

Please read this at kitchennovel dot com ~

In a blink of an eye, it was already the month of May.

In those few days, Fu Qiuning busied herself collecting the spices and plants in the courtyard and entrusted Zhang San to sell the lot. At the end of the day, they managed to collect close to four tales of silver. This was a large sum of money for them. She set aside two strings of coins for that month's living expenses. As for the rest of the scattered silver pieces, they were all placed in a piece of red silk and wrapped up carefully.

Yu Jie and Aunt Yu watched [1] as Fu Qiuning carefully tucked the money away. The maids could not help themselves and suddenly burst out laughing, "Madam, are you still desperately saving money for the children's future? Surely you no longer need to save as though your life depends on it? Now that the Young Marquis has recognised the children, what is there to worry about? Rather than being so tight with money, why don't we buy a bit more rice, flour, meat and eggs instead?

This way, you can eat well too. After marrying into this place, the days have had only gotten more and more destitute. Even life as the shu daughter of the Zhenjiang Palace was better [1] than as the official wife of a young marquis. If people know this, wouldn't they laugh at us?"

"What do you know?" Fu Qiuning flashed a glare at Yu Jie and Aunt Yu. In a low voice, she said, "Don't you know the saying 'Make Preparations before the Rain Comes'? The Young Marquis might seem to like Feng'er and Jiao'er for now. However, who could know what that person is thinking? He was the one who threw his own children away for six years.

What if someone or something agitates a bad memory from his past indiscretion and he suddenly decides to hate the children again? What if he gets bored of them? By then, if even this bit of money is wasted on pointless food and drink, Feng'er and Jiao'er with nothing to fall back on. That is why I must save this money. In this world, outsiders cannot be relied upon. The only thing you can depend on is yourself and the money you have saved. This is the most important thing."

At this, she opened up the red silk again and counted her silver pieces. There were a total of 15 silver taels in total. She was so happy that she sighed and said, "So long as we have money in our hands, who cares whether the Young Marquis hates or favours us."

Yu Jie and Aunt Yu laughed again, "Madam is usually so mature and dignified. Who would have thought that you'd suddenly turn into a complete miser in the face of money?" Fu Qiuning glared at them but then laughed too.

After carefully placing the silver into the bottom of a box, Fu Qiuning locked the box and tucked the key away on her person. Then, she said, "That's right, with the Dragon Boast Festival around the corner, it's about time to collect Water Reed [2] leaves from the pond out back and prepare them for Rice Dumplings. As for the duck and chicken eggs, I believe we should have about 30 or 50 of them now? Let's not sell any and keep them for ourselves. While we normally don't use as many, that Young Marquis might suddenly turn up again, so we could use the extra ingredients."

At this, she sighed and rubbed her forehead. Every time she thought about that unpredictable Jin Fengju, a vein throbbed in her head.

Yu Jie and Aunt Yu quickly accepted her order and rushed out to call Jin Changfeng and Changjiao to come to the pond. They also locked the courtyard door, [1] with everyone out in the backyard, it was better to be safe than sorry. There were no other people in this place aside from them, who knew what would happen if they didn't don't lock the door?

Once everything was secured, the little family made their way to the pond located behind the few mu of farmland in the back

This large pond used to be filled with lotus flowers. However, due to neglect, not many were left. Instead, Water Reeds flourished in their place. Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao had learned to swim in this pond. Yu Jie grew up knowing how to swim and was fairly proficient. Therefore, Fu Qiuning got her to teach the children how to swim.

As soon as they got to the pond, the children tore off their clothes and leapt into the water without waiting for Fu Qiuning's instructions.

They were not allowed to play here without adult supervision, thus, how could they [1] pass up the opportunity to splash around happily in the water? However, they also did not forget the purpose of coming to this pond. After splashing around a bit, the children swam towards the Water Reeds and began picking off the long wide leaves for dumpling-making.

Neither Fu Qiuning nor Aunt Yu knew how to swim, so they stayed on the shore and collected Wall Iris [3] leaves instead. The long and slender leaves of the Wall Iris was just perfect for trying up the Rice Dumplings. This was the traditional way of securing the Rice Dumpling packet. Back in her previous life, Fu Qiuning would not have used leaves but would have tied her dumplings with colourful strings instead.

They collected leaves and splashed about until mid-afternoon. When Fu Qiuning saw that they had enough leaves, she called for the brother and sister [1], "Alright, we have enough reed leaves now. Don't keep playing in the water, it's time to get out.

The two children giggled and dove down underwater, only their heads popping up near the shore. "Mother, we should drive the ducks and goose back home first."

"Enough with you," Fu Qiuning laughed half-scoldingly. "Our head goose is a natural leader and would always lead the herd back by evening. So there's no need for you to bother. The sun hasn't set yet, so there's no way the birds would be willing to come ashore. However, you two had better climb up."

At this, the children could only [1] paddle towards the shore. Suddenly, they dove back into the water again. When Fu Qiuning saw this, she turned to Yu Jie, "You stay here and watch them. If they still refuse to come up, just fetch them out of the water later."

Yu Jie smiled, "Of course. But madam, why don't you just say there's a giant turtle in the pond and scare them out right away?"

[1] One of Fu Qiuning's eyebrows went up, "Enough with you. Though this pond is large, they have already more or less explored the whole place. Who would believe that a giant man-eating turtle the size of a mountain is hiding there…"

The children's screams startled her and Fu Qiuning hurried over to the edge of the shore, only to see the two children paddling quickly towards her with something in their hands.

"Perhaps they caught some small fish?" said Aunt Yu with a smile.

[1] Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao expertly paddled forward with their hands tucked close to their chest shrieking with laughter, "Mother, mother, see what we've got." They carefully opened their hands to show four light-blue duck eggs nestled in their little hands.

"Oh my, duck eggs!" Yu Jie and Aunt Yu cried out.

Yu Jie scolded cheerfully, "What on earth? These could only belong to our ducks. Those ungrateful things have certainly bitten the hand that feeds them. Very good, ah. Each of them eats the feed I mix for them, however, for the bit of tiny fish and shrimps in this pond, they dare betray me by laying their eggs here?

Here I was wondering why there have been fewer duck eggs lately. Thinking that they were getting old, I helped hide the matter in case madam decides to kill them for dinner, but to think they were so unsatisfied with my service that they'd actually lay their eggs outside. Humph. Just wait, I'm going to catch one and stew us an old duck soup!"

[1] Fu Qiuning and Aunt Yu laughed at her indignation. Even Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao had to clutch at their mother's clothes as they tried to stay upright while laughing. As for the ducks and geese, they ignored the angry girl as they paddled happily in the water, perfectly content. Finally, a red-faced Yu Jie could only creep back in silent embarrassment.

Jin Changfeng said "Mother, why don't I dive into the water again? I could collect a few more duck eggs."

"No need. That would be too great a coincidence. They don't make a habit of laying their eggs in the pond anyway. Perhaps they just could not help themselves that one time. Moreover, even if there were more eggs, who knows how long they had been there? If you fish them out, they could stink to high heavens."

With that, Fu Qiuning made sure the children put on their clothes before the little group collected their harvest of Water Reed and Wall Iris leaves and made their way toward the house.

As soon as they left the backyard, they heard a series of loud knocking. For a moment, the women and children looked at each other in confusion, [1] unused to this unusual noise when Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao suddenly jumped up and shouted, "It must be Father! Let's open the door for him!"

Brother and sister grabbed each other's hand and ran for the front yard, leaving Fu Qiuning and the others behind in a flash.

The three of them watched speechlessly as the children rushed towards the gate.

Suddenly Fu Qiuning laughed. Shaking her head she said, "You said those ducks betray the hands that fed them, [1] but look, see that? That's a true-life example of betraying the hands that feed them. Their father had only been by a few times, and already they are this friendly with him. Whatever grudges they had held in the past six years of neglect were all but forgotten. Looking at them makes my heart a little sour."

Aunt Yu smiled, "No matter what, he's their natural father…" Suddenly recalling that Fu Qiuning was not the children's 'natural mother', she quickly shut herself up. Hanging her head, she lamented: How embarrassing, ah. Could you make things more awkward for the mistress?

However, Fu Qiuning did not seem to have heard or noticed the faux pas. The three of them made their way into the house through the back door with their harvest when Jin Fengju came around a screen with the children.

"… …"

Fu Qiuning, Yu Jie and Aunt Yu all had their arms full and could not greet this young master properly.

Today, Jin Fengju had a folding fan in one hand. Seeing their awkward faces, he gallantly waved his fan at them with a smile, "No need to greet me. Feng'er and Jiao'er told me that you had just returned with a great harvest, and I thought to have a look. So, these are your harvest? These leaves and grasses, what are they for? Have you been collecting Chinese Mugwort [b] for the Dragon Boat Festival? They look a little different."

It turned out that although the Young Marquis had a bellyful of knowledge, he could not tell the Five Grains apart [2]. Yu Jie had always been the most straightforward [a] and her attitude was rarely regulated within Night Breeze Pavilion. At the Young Marquis' remark, a sudden burst of laughter escaped her before she could hold it back. Her face turned apple red from the effort.

Fu Qiuning also felt a little embarrassed on his behalf. Nevertheless, she pretended not to have seen or heard anything untoward and, after putting down their 'harvest', she explained, "The ones with wide leaves are water reeds and the thin leaf ones are Wall Iris. We plan to wrap rice dumplings with them."

Only then did Jin Fengju realize that he had just made a fool of himself. Fortunately, he was fairly thick-skinned. With a slightly self-recriminating smile, he turned to make his way towards the living room, when the children suddenly seized a leg each and called out, "Father, father, we also collected duck eggs. The ducks laid their eggs in the pond and Yu Jie said they 'betray the hands that feed them' by laying their eggs outside."

"What? Betray the hands that… what? Also, what ducks?

Unable to understand why ducks were suddenly mentioned, he turned to Fu Qiuning. "What's this about? Do you have ducks here too? When did you get a pond?"

The three women blushed. If a crack were to appear in front of them, all three would not have hesitated to jump in. Aunt Yu and Yu Jie stammered, "M-madam, we… we need to clean the kitchen." Without waiting for Fu Qiuning to say anything, they bobbed at Jin Fengju and fled so quickly that their feet barely touched the ground.

Abandoned by her subordinates, Fu Qiuning had no choice but to make the explanations. "The backyard of this place is quite wide and abundant with grasses and wild vegetables. Therefore, we decided to raise some chickens, ducks and geese. This way, we could get fresh eggs now and then. However, it's mostly for pleasure, especially since we have a pond just beyond the few mu of land. It had been left in disrepair, but the ducks and geese like to splash in the pond every morning, only coming back for food and shelter at night.

Just now, while we were collecting the Water Reeds and Wall Iris at the pond, Feng'er and Jiao'er happened upon four duck eggs while playing in the pond. Yu Jie made a little joke about the ducks, but the children appeared to have taken it seriously."

At this, Jin Fengju smiled [a] and made his way to a chair to sit down. He tapped his folded fan against his hand before saying, "I see, no wonder you are so reluctant to leave this place. Though your days are impoverished, there are some charms to it.

White feathers float atop jade waters

Red paddles stir clear ripples [3]

Is a verse that I read during my time of enlightenment, but to this day, I have only seen geese that have been plucked bare of their feathers, and have never seen a live goose."

"A plucked goose?" Fu Qiuning frowned: Who on earth would dare order a Young Marquis to pluck goose in the kitchen, ah?

Suddenly, Jin Fengju laughed, "Roast goose is commonly seen in banquets, some even served the goose whole. Why? Have you never seen one before?"

"Oh, y-yes, I've seen it…" Fu Qiuning privately rolled her eyes: What the heck? It's just a roasted goose, ah. What's with all that extra remark about a plucked goose? Are you trying to be clever? Can't you just say 'Roast Goose' and save me the trouble of puzzling over nothing?

Just then, the children asked curiously, "Father, what is a 'Roast Goose'? Aren't geese meant to be stewed? Or wrapped in dumplings for New Year?"

At the children's curious eyes, Jin Fengju felt a sudden burst of sourness in his heart. He cursed at his young and frivolous self, brimming with resentment at the past him that had mistreated these children so. Swallowing down these feelings, he smiled and patted their heads, "No problem, in a few days, Father will treat you to some Roast Goose. Roasted goose is delicious, you know? It's very different from stewed goose and goose dumplings."

He raised his eyes towards Fu Qiuning, "The Dragon Boat Festival will be here in a few days. Each year, family members who happened to be in the city will gather at the Health & Longevity Court. The Old Madam has granted you the privilege of bringing the two children over for a visit. See to it that you prepare a set of clothes for the children. Do you have enough cloth and satin fabric? If not, I shall have Jin Ming select a few bolts for you."

Fu Qiuning froze in place for a long time. Jin Fengju was not at all surprised by her reaction. After living in isolation for six years, to be told to attend a family gathering would certainly be a great shock. Look at how she stood in place as though struck black by lightning. Anyone else would not react so calmly, ah.

He took a leisurely sip of tea and privately sighed.

"Young Marquis, have you… passed on the message to the wrong person? Surely you should be saying this to the Second Madam?" said Fu Qiuning tentatively.

She thought: There was no way that Old Madam, the most important and most powerful woman within the marquisate would ask for her, not even if Jin Fengju asked for it. This Plague Bringer must have said something to stimulate the Old Ancestor, but just what?

Surely he could have nothing good to say about a wife that was so ignored that she might as well be abandoned? Is he not afraid of being humiliated for bringing said abandoned wife to a family gathering?

"What nonsense. Why would I need to invite the Second Madam when she's in charge of organising the event?" Jin Fengju snapped open his fan as he leaned back to better show off his dashing posture. However, after just waving the fan a couple of times, he noticed the children's gaze following the fan. He immediately smiled and handed the fan to Jin Changfeng. "Take this and play with your sister. One day, when you manage to paint a good picture on the fan, you may return it to father."

Jin Changfeng received his father's fan and happily pulled his sister out to play. Here, Fu Qiuning finally calmed down enough to frown at Jin Fengju and say in a grim voice, "Forgive this humble woman for not understanding Young Marquis' intention. This humble woman is not suited for this kind of gathering. If Old Madam wishes to see the children, perhaps Lord Husband should bring them instead. It's not suitable for this humble woman to show her face."

Jin Fengju smiled and said, "It's not a question of whether you're suitable or not. A few days ago, I visited Old Madam's room. When I saw her room decorated with aromatic plants taken from your place, I said something in passing about how you were the one who raised those plants and how well you educated the children. When Old Madam heard this, she instruct me to have you bring the children before her.

There's nothing to it. With so many people in attendance, you are only meant to appear and let her have a look at you. Otherwise, are you truly fine letting the children go without you? Do you not care if they are bullied? Even if I wish to go with them and look after them myself, I am obliged to entertain any male guests that appear that day."

The way he spoke to Fu Qiuning was very casual. The woman before him remained dignified and calm, with none of the gentle, soul-stirring, seductive charms in either tone or words. Speaking to her was very comfortable.

Jin Fengju had already made up his mind to move Fu Qiuning into the Inner Court. Although he would respect her request to not move now, once the twins had settled down and the family was no longer affected by outside forces, he must move this family into his inner court.

Though he couldn't divorce this wife, places like Night Breeze Pavilion could not be allowed to exist within the marquisate. Naturally, the most important reason for moving this family was for Fu Qiuning to bring her fresh and upright spirit into his strife and intrigue riddled harem. He wanted to show those jealous and scheme filled women what a truly upright and moral woman looked like. [1] Perhaps, with her as the shining example, the women in his inner court would model themselves after her and become virtuous mothers too.

Naturally, these were all Jin Fengju's private thoughts. If Fu Qiuning had any idea of what was going on in his head, she would curse him and his antiquated feudal machismo ideas to hell. However, Jin Fengju was merely an example of the men of this era. The fact that he refused to add to his harem, visit the brothel or indulge himself in the charms of the pretty maids in the house already set him a cut above from the men of his time.

Seeing how Fu Qiuning had remained silent and refused to speak, Jin Fengju knew that she did not wish to attend the banquet. However, he feigned ignorance and smiled, "No need to worry, I shall have Jin Ming send over some fabrics and accessories. Seeing how you have harvested so many things, you must have a busy day ahead of you. I happen to have something to do at the government office in the afternoon. Therefore, I shall not stay for dinner."

At this, he stood up and was about to leave when Fu Qiuning suddenly said, "Please wait, the children are still playing with your fan…"

He laughed, "It's just a fan. Surely there's no need to be anxious about it? Why? Are you annoyed with me? You don't wish to see even a scrap of my belongings here?" he spread his hands to indicate helplessness and said. "What I said just now had nothing to do with me. Since the Old Madam asked, surely I had to answer?"

Fu Qiuning thought: Would it kill you to speak less? Obviously, you were the one who was being overly chatty with the old lady. So, you do know that I hate the sight of your things. Humph, very well, if you do not wish to take the fan away I shall tear it up and throw it away.

Naturally, these were all her private thoughts, not something that could be said out loud. However, her resentment could be seen in her reluctant movements. When they finally sent off Jin Fengju, she turned around before he even reached the courtyard gates.

Her seething reluctance was so obvious that even Jin Ming could see it. On the way back, he cautiously inquired, "Master, this servant noticed that the Madam looked a little unhappy. Has Master offended her just now?"

Jin Fengju smiled, "I told her to attend the Dragon Boat Festival Banquet. Because of this, she grew so annoyed at me that she refused to even send us to the door. Fortunately, I am smart enough to notice this and not stay for a meal. Otherwise, who knows what kind of vomit-inducing food they would serve me?" At this, he laughed out loud, amused and intrigued by his own wit.

Jin Ming thought: Just look at that 'cat that caught the canary' face. Master, I must admire you for your ability to annoy people. The way you laugh is truly heartless. No matter what, Master certainly appeared more engaged and interested compared to the times he visited Second Madam and the concubines.

Still studying Jin Fengju's expression, he carefully said, "Master, this servant doesn't understand. Instead of being happy, why is the Madam is annoyed with you? To be invited to attend the Dragon Boat Festival Banquet grants her a lot of face, ah. If Master had not said a lot of good things to Old Madam about her, surely such a good thing would never reach her door? No matter what, she should be grateful to you, right?"

Jin Fengju sneered, "That's because you are short-sighted." At this, he glanced backwards and saw nothing but a lush green garden and not a single person around. He sighed with relief and said in a low voice, "Fu'shi is an intelligent woman. More intelligent than I had expected. She is smart enough to refuse to involve herself in inner court battles. However, just because she refused to involve herself, how could I let it go? Right now, Feng'er and Jiao'er are still young. It's rare for two good seedlings to emerge from such murky waters, and I am unwilling to ruin them through an overly luxurious life of mountain treasures and fresh seafood. But if I were to wait until they have grown up and cannot deny their connections with the marquisate to pull them into the inner court, they might have sneaked out of the courtyard and have flown off to goodness knows where, living a good life on their own."

Jin Ming nodded agreeably. However, Jin Fengju did not appear to expect him to understand. With a smile on his face, he stepped forward leisurely and said to himself, "This Dragon Boat family banquet will likely be very exciting. Fu'shi, Fu Qiuning was it? Let me see if you can still maintain the [a] steadiness of a pine tree when facing down the eyes of a garden full of aristocrats."

Please read this at kitchennovel dot com ~

Let's head over to Fu Qiuning's side for now.

With a stomach filled with anger and nowhere to vent, she walked stiffly towards the kitchen. There, she encountered an oblivious Yu Jie, who smiled and asked, "Why didn't I hear Madam ask this maid to serve tea? Will the Young Marquis stay for a meal again? Should we steam buns or rice-"

Fu Qiuning suddenly howled, "What rice or buns? If he dares to come again I shall serve him chicken shit!"

Yu Jie and Aunt Yu had been with this mistress for so many years, yet this was the first time they had ever seen her lose her temper like this. Both of them jumped back in surprise when Fu Qiuning started kicking and stamping her foot at some dry branches. When the branches had been kicked apart, she hissed, "That cursed plague bringer bastard that ought to die a painful death from a thousand cuts, who knows what nonsense he told that Old Ancestor about me. Wonderful, just wonderful, wanting me to attend this accursed Dragon Boat Festival Banquet thing with Feng'er and Jiao'er. Let me ask you, isn't… isn't he pushing me onto a grill?

Those few times, he came wanting to eat, drink, and sleep in my place. For the sake of making his stay comfortable, I spent at least one or two taels of silver and never asked him for anything back. All I wish for was a little less trouble, but look! Look what kind of thanks I get? If I had known, I'd be better off just throwing those silver taels into the pond. That way, I could at least have the satisfaction of hearing them plopping into the water…"

While she was busy huffing and puffing, complaining endlessly about this and that, Aunt Yu and Yu Jie exchanged glances with each other. Neither knew why their mistress was so angry. Finally, they carefully persuaded, "Madam, having the Old Madam wanting to see you is a good thing, ah. In the future, you will not fall out of favour-"

Fu Qiuning cut in, "Stuff it! Have all the things I've told you these past six years fallen on deaf ears? If I bring Feng'er and Jiao'er to this so-called family banquet, won't we attract the eyes of all those vicious people? Do you think Jin Fengju's relatives, wives and concubines will welcome us with open arms? As for the two of you, don't think you can hide out here while the rest of us suffer. Am I not his official wife? Can an official wife appear without maids? When the time comes, you may witness with your own eyes and experience with your body just what 'Climbing a Mountain of Knives and Diving Down a Boiling Pot' means!"

With that, she rushed outside again.

Aunt Yu and Yu Jie looked at each other again, finally beginning to understand what Fu Qiuning was so anxious about. When the two tried to imagine the day of the banquet, cold sweat break out on their backs as they realised how Jin Fengju's good intentions had gone bad.

These poor, simple-minded women still believed that Jin Fengju was really being kind to them and never thought that this ruthless and intelligent man had already planned out their lives for years to come.