Higher Level Wife

by Usui Takumii

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

6. 51 to 60

When Jin Fengju took his seat at the table, Jin Ming cleverly took the opportunity to present the sandalwood boxes and said with a meaningful smile, "The Young Marquis knew that today is the twins' birthday and had especially prepared these gifts…"

Before he could finish speaking, Jin Fengju waved for him to stop. He took the two sandalwood boxes and smiled bitterly at the twins, "Enough with those face-saving remarks. How could I know that today is Feng'er and Jiao'er's birthday? In the past, I… didn't even know when their birthdays were." He sighed again, but soon regained his spirits and continued, "Don't worry, Feng'er, Jiao'er, father will remember all your birthdays from now on and spend them with you. Alright?"

"Yes, ah, yes, ah," Jin Chanfeng and Jin Changjiao clapped their little hands as Jin Fengju handed the sandalwood boxes to them.

"I heard that your dragon and phoenix jade pendants were broken. Don't worry, father knows what happened. I also know that Feng'er and Jiao'er are good and sensible children. As the eldest, you are to set a good example for your younger brothers and sisters. Therefore, Father will gift you these as compensation. See if you like them or not?"

The children opened the boxes and immediately a burst of sandalwood fragrance was released into the air. Fu Qiuning smiled and said, "So precious? The boxes themselves are already quite valuable, right? I can't imagine what precious thing they contain." As she spoke, she stuck her head over to take a look and was surprised to see two delicately made white jade lions in the boxes. The workmanship was exquisite and captivating.

"Father, are these lions? But they are quite big, we can't wear them," said Jin Changjiao as he picked up his lion for a closer look.

Jin Fengju smiled, "Yes, these lions aren't meant to be worn. They are paperweights. Do you know what paperweights are? When you are writing in the study, to prevent your paper from being blown about by a sudden wind, don't you usually weigh it down with something? That's a paperweight. From now on, these little lions will accompany you as you study. If you are not diligent, they could get angry and bite you."

"Don't you scare them, what if you frighten them too much and they drop the lions?" Fu Qiuning glared at Jin Fengju before striding over to pack the lions away with a sigh. "These are too precious. If the other mothers and concubine mothers know, we will have to deal with them again."

Jin Fengju smiled mildly at her, "What does that have to do with the people in Night Breeze Pavilion? Others might be ignorant, but I know everything. How could you be willing to take a loss from them? Perhaps this kind of attitude is normal without backing, but with me backing you from behind, what are you afraid of?"

Fu Qiuning said crossly, "It's easy for you to talk. Haven't you heard the saying 'To Bow one's Head while Living Under Other's Eaves'? Even if I do have something of a position in this family, do I have the power to be stubborn in the face of your wives and concubines? If you pity those two children, you had better seal this information tightly instead. Otherwise, once I fall, the two children will suffer too."

Jin Fengju smiled and said, "No one has ever dared to speak to me like this before. If you could oppose even me, why are you still afraid of that woman? Be at ease, I promise you, so long as you take care of your side of things, no matter what you do, I can promise not to find fault with you."

Fu Qiuning nearly spat up blood at that. She muttered, "No matter what I do? Young Marquis, aren't you thinking too highly of me? Do you think I possess martial arts like you? Leaving everything else aside, your Second Madam could easily give the order to have a few slaves come and attack us. When that happens, the children and I are done for."

"What do you think this place is? This is the Jin Marquisate. No matter what, you are still my Official Wife." Jin Fengju sneered. "Don't worry, they won't be so stupid. Moreover, those slaves would never dare carry out such orders." He turned to the children, "Alright, why don't you take the little lions to the study? The emperor bestowed these lions to Father. You two must be very careful and treat them respectfully. Understand?"

So precious, and a gift from the emperor? No wonder the quality is so excellent, Fu Qiuning thought. [1] Her reflections were interrupted by the sound of children running into the study. Afraid that they might accidentally break those precious tokens bestowed by the Imperial Family, she quickly said to Aunt Yu, "Quick, follow them. Make sure they don't run too fast or fall down."

Aunt Yu quickly trotted after the children. A short while later, the children came running back to the room with two handkerchief wrapped items in their hands. [1] They showed the contents of the handkerchieves to Jin Fengju and said in unison, "Look Father, the pendants are broken but we still take care of them. We dare not throw them away." It was as though they were indirectly letting their father know that: Look, we take good care of everything you give to us. In the future, if you have any good things in hand, you can always send them to us.

Jin Fengju and Fu Qiuning laughed at the twins' obvious little scheme. Fu Qiuning poked their foreheads and said, "You've only been to one family banquet and you've already picked up a naughty little trick like this instead of learning something good. I have never seen you act like this before. You're not allowed to play these tricks in the future."

Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao stuck out their tongues at her. Jin Fengju said, "Aiya, there's no need to criticise. It is human nature to be greedy. So long as don't allow your greed to control you, it's fine. As a man, you should not be too content with your lot and forget how to progress in life. There's no need for Feng'er or Jiao'er to give this too much thought yet. You'll naturally understand in 10 years' time."

He took the broken jade pendants from them with a smile, "There's a century-old accessory store in the capital with the unique ability to repair jade ornaments with gold inlays. It would be a pity to throw away such good quality jades. Jin Ming, take these to Song's Accessories. See if they can do anything about the jades."

"Yes," Jin Ming accepted the pieces of broken jades and tucked them into his breast pocket.

[1] "Gold inlay? What's that?" asked Jin Changjiao.

However, her mother interrupted, "I'll tell you all about it later. Let your father eat first. The food will be cold soon. No matter what, it's your birthday, if your father gets a stomachache from eating cold food, what should I do?"

"Do I look as delicate as that?" Jin Fengju rolled his eyes. Then, he noticed that on the table was an extra wine cup next to his plate. Moreover, it was filled with amber-coloured wine. He smiled and said, "It smells quite sweet, did you make this too?"

Fu Qiuning smiled back, "Aunt Yu was the one who taught me how to brew wine. She had done it quite successfully a few times and I asked her to teach me. Last year, the trees bore a lot of fruit and we decided to try making wine with them. It's a little sweet. I've never taken it out as I was afraid that Lord Husband would not like it. However, since today is Feng'er and Jiao'er's birthday, I thought it would be nice to liven the atmosphere with a little wine."

While she was speaking, Jin Fengju took a sip and nodded, "Though the taste is sweet, it is both mellow and refreshing. I don't tend to drink strong wine often. Who could stand it all the time?"

The family sat together and was just about to get started on the festive birthday lunch when Fu Qiuning said to Aunt Yu, "It's the twins' birthday today, so there's no need for you to stand by and serve us. Get yourself a table and take a share of the food. Invite Steward Jin and bring out a small table for him. It would feel more like a celebration with more people eating together."

Jin Fengju, who was in the middle of nibbling on a piece of Beggar's Chicken, said "You've given voice to the thoughts right out of my heart. Normally whenever I eat, Jin Ming would stand behind me like a wooden general. With everything already on the table, do I still need him to serve me? No need to find a small table for him. The three can share a table and we shall all eat together. With you and I here, surely there's no need to observe so many rules? It's just a meal after all, not a private meeting."

Yu Jie and Aunt Yu hurriedly agreed and set up another table. All of them ate at their leisure for close to an hour, nearly devouring the food clean off the table. By then, Fu Qiuning had lost some of her restraint in front of Jin Fengju as she shook her head and laughed at him, "You've eaten twice at my place, but why is it that each time you eat here, you're like a storm that sweeps the area clean? If word gets out, who would believe that I had been entertaining the Young Marquis of Jinxiang Marquisate? A person who behaves as though he had been deprived of food for days?"

Jin Fengju took out a delicate handkerchief and dabbed at his mouth elegantly before laughing, "You were just unlucky. The first time was because I had been entertaining people for many days and was tired of palace banquet cuisine. Speaking of which, I'd been thinking of those Shepherd's Purse Dumplings lately, when will you be making them again? [1] The Old Madam had also been thinking about those Rice Dumplings you sent to her last time.

No need to look at me like that, do not worry. I don't plan to eat for free. I shall order Jin Ming to send you a few dozen pounds of ingredients in return. If that's still not enough, you may write up a list and get him to fetch whatever you need."

After she spoke, Jin Fengju swept his gaze over the leftovers on the table. [a] There was hardly anything left, merely some sauce and a bit of garnish here and there. He sighed and said, "Somehow, even though the food is not particularly outstanding, and the skills not quite up to a chef's level, eating at your place feels comfortable. I cannot help but eat some more."

Fu Qiuning thought: That's probably because you have to put up with hidden battles, inuendos and words filled with layered meanings all the time. As a smart guy, you probably can't even pretend not to understand them. So, how could you properly relax?

However, you also can't just run to my place every two or three days just because it's peaceful, you know? If you bestow us something small now and then, I can pass it off as gifts for the children or say that they're for the children's sake. On the other hand, if you come over to my place to eat and sleep every few days, who would turn a blind eye to this kind of behaviour? Won't I become a favour competing vixen in the eyes of your wives and concubines? Even if I hide out in the pond in the backyard, no one would ever believe that my actions are pure, ah!

The more she thought about it, the greater her desire to beat up this Jin Fengju or at least give him a good rap on the head. After Yu Jie and Aunt Yu had cleared the table, the Jin twins ran off to study with their new paperweights. Jin Ming had already left to run errands at Jin Fengju's order.

Thus, right then, there was no one else in the room aside from Fu Qiuning and Jin Fengju seated at either end of the couch when Fu Qiuning said in a grave ponderous tone, "As the emperor's most favoured person, Lord Husband must receive great favour from the emperor. However, the more favoured one is, the greater the likelihood of being criticised by others. Has my lord been troubled by anyone recently?"

Jin Fengju raised an eyebrow and smiled, "It is rare for you to show such concern for me. Here I thought you would hate me and refuse to speak to me till we die of old age. Do not worry, I have taken measures against these matters. You may speak your mind."

Hearing this, Fu Qiuning said resolutely, "With Lord Husband's permission, this humble woman shall speak frankly. The reason behind this humble woman's marriage and the reason why this humble woman had been left out in the cold is clear within both our hearts. Although this humble woman resides within the marquisate and is cut off from outside news, the relationship between Zhenjiang Palace and Jinxiang Marquisate could never be truly intimate. This humble woman still retains quite an impression of that very day. This humble woman's father and grandfather are loyal to Prince Hong, yet the Young Marquis is the brother-in-law of Prince Rong. How could it be easy to unravel the problems between our two families? Young Marquis, has this humble woman spoken true?"

Jin Fengju nodded, his smile indifferent as he said, "That's right, Zhenjiang Palace and Jinxiang Marquisate never bothered to pretend a close relationship even on the surface. Beneath that, we are like fire and water. In the future, once the victor is decided, the winner shall be king and the loser a thief. There is no room for other outcomes."

Fu Qiuning had already expected that. Hearing Jin Fengju said it so seriously, she merely nodded and said, "If that's the case, this humble woman believes that the Young Marquis should visit this place less to avoid drawing suspicion. Though this courtyard can be said to still be within the marquisate, the nobler the residence, the more gossip it attracts.

If rumours of the dignified Young Marquis getting close to the shu daughter of Zhenjiang Palace's Prince, would it not hurt your face? On Prince Rong's side, you'll have to waste a lot of effort defending your actions and even drag this humble woman into harem battles. No matter what, this does not appear to be wise. Young Marquis, what do you think?"

Jin Fengju looked deeply at Fu Qiuning, only to see that within the pair of not-beautiful eyes, there was only clarity and honesty. Although there was not even half a point of love or other tender feelings displayed by his other wives or concubines, they were like two whirlpools that seemed to suck people's souls in. He thought: Fortunately, the one here today is me. If it were anyone else, they would probably have lost their self-control by now.

He coughed gently, replying with a smile, "I married you into the household, but abandoned you in Night Breeze Pavilion, wasting six spring and autumn's worth of your maidenhood. The best years of a woman were all wasted like a passing wind, do you not resent me in your heart? For what reason are you still so thoroughly considerate of me? Qiuning, I pride myself on being heartless and emotionless, but your love is so deep that even I can't help but be touched by it. How can I bear to let you down and allow you, an official wife, live like a widow in this Night Breeze Pavilion?"

When Fu Qiuning heard this, her eyes became straight, thinking: What… what happened? My… my focus was clearly on the last sentence, not wanting to be involved in the inner court's harem battles. Young Marquis, wake up ah! Those polite words of mine at the beginning are all foreshadowing ah, can you not muddle up the priority or miss the focus, okay? You just continue to be heartless and emotionless ah, that's not a problem at all, don't suddenly put up such a poetic line about being deeply moved by love. I just ate, I don't want to vomit ah!

Howls resounded in her heart, but how could such disrespectful words be spat out? In the face of Jin Fengju's romantic delusion, she actually did not know what to say.

Quite a long time passed before she coughed, trying her best to restrain her boiling emotions as she lowered her head and said, "Young Marquis, it is best if you do not misunderstand. From the moment this humble woman married into the marquisate, such as ending was to be expected. My heart is like stagnant water. I dare not entertain any delusions. This humble woman's only hope is to live a peaceful life. This is enough to satisfy me. The considerations that this humble woman had spoken about earlier are not only for the Young Marquis' sake, but for my own peaceful life as well. Otherwise, with my status, I shall surely die without an intact corpse from inner court battles. Thus, this humble woman begs Young Marquis to grant this consideration."

She had barely finished speaking when Jin Fengju suddenly leaned forward and grabbed her hands. Startled, she found herself staring into a pair of intense eyes as a charming voice murmured, "Qiuning, are you truly at peace? Do you truly have no feelings for me? When it comes to the so-called inner house struggle, the power of one's maternal family is only secondary. What matters is your children's abilities, your husband's love and the elders' favour. Elder Madam might criticise you, but you have the love of the Old Madam. I too shall protect you well and not lead you astray. You… still wish to reject me?"

Fu Qiuning's face turned white. As she stared at Jin Fengju's fervent, half-crazed face, she really couldn't figure out what triggered this weird reaction. She was so frightened by this sudden burst of ardour that she immediately pulled her hands away and stood up. She sank into a full salute and said with some fear, "Young Marquis, do not be impulsive. Think thrice before taking action. This humble woman would rather leave the secular world to become a nun and worship the ancient Buddha than willingly cause trouble for you. This humble woman begs the Young Marquis to grant this humble plea."

"You… really have no feelings for me?" Jin Fengju stared at Fu Qiuning for a long time before letting out a sigh. Eventually, an indifferent smile graced his face and he stretched out his hand to say, "Enough, get up first so we can talk. Since you have said this, naturally, I shall not force you. However, you must also not try to be too clever. You clearly have no feelings for me and do not wish to battle with those wives and concubines. Yet, you still claim to do things for my sake. Qiuning, I have never liked it when people lie to me."

"There are some words, some justifications, though high sounding, that must nevertheless be said," replied Fu Qiuning in a low voice, still keeping her head down. Privately, she thought: It's rare to see a confused Young Marquis, ah. Just because you know it, doesn't mean you have to say it, you know? Don't you think we should just keep on moving forward at this pace and not break the status quo?

She was still mulling things over when Jin Fengju stood up. He shook his fan open and waved it a few times before flashing a dashing smile over it, "I can see that your action just now was not fake. If you can continue to be this way, I, too, shall be at ease. Qiuning, you are a person worthy of respect. Feng'er and Jiao'er may not be of your blood, but you have brought them up carefully nonetheless.

I am grateful that you did not allow the injustice inflicted upon your person by this marquisate to colour your feelings towards them, and had educated them to this level instead. Do not worry, I come to your place as a friend for a meal, to spend time with Feng'er and Jiao'er and perhaps to chat with you to dispel some small frustrations. Naturally, I shall not do anything outrageous or overstep boundaries that would bring you public criticism. You… understand my meaning?"

"This humble woman understands. Gratefulness fills this humble woman's heart over Young Marquis' generosity. This humble woman is greatly honoured to be called a friend of Young Marquis," Fu Qiuning quietly sighed with relief. Although this man was a scum husband, as a casual friend, he was still someone worth getting along with.

Moreover, as 'friends', their status would be more equal. It would be much better to be a 'friend' than a dependent 'wife'. Since he favoured both Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao, Night Breeze Pavilion would likely see better prosperity in the future. This was also a good thing.

Jin Fengju continued to stare at Fu Qiuning. For some, reason, he felt a sudden sense of loss. He was the one who had sealed away the connection as man and wife with this good looking and intelligent woman, relegating them to a relationship where one could only see but never touch for the rest of their lives. He had no idea if he would regret this in the future one day.

If he were to regret it, was he to turn around and break that promise? No matter what, Jin Fengju was still a young marquis whose word carried enormous weight, and could never go back on his word. What if… if one day he was tempted by this woman, would he harass her and ended up stalking his own wife like a crazy youth in the first blush of love?

As soon as the thought surfaced, Jin Fengju shivered. He quickly shook his head and tossed away those messy thoughts.

While he was busy with this little dilemma, Fu Qiuning had sat down on her end of the couch again. After ridding himself of his silly thoughts, Jin Fengju watched her with unburdened eyes. [1] The sun had moved in a way that sent a shimmer of light through the window and illuminated her neat and capable person. From his vantage point, Fu Qiuning looked like she was shining.

Suddenly, Jin Fengju blurted out, "Qiuning, do not worry. So long as the Jin Marquisate does not lose its power and regardless of the changing forces outside, I, Jin Fengju, shall protect your peace. If I do not fall for a day, I shall defend you for a day; if I do not fall for a lifetime, I shall be your protector for a lifetime. Though we are not destined to be lovers, we may still be [2] life and death companions."

Fu Qiuning suddenly shivered. Jin Fengju's meaning was very clear. If Prince Hong cannot ascend to the Dragon Throne in the future, Zhenjiang Palace would also suffer defeat. When that time comes, families who had married even the most favoured of the di daughters of Prince Zhenjiang would divorce them to avoid being dragged into disgrace. Only daughters who had given birth to children or contributed greatly to their husband's family could avoid such a fate. Even so, their future would be uncertain for a long time.

What Jin Fengju was promising now was that even after Zhenjiang Palace had fallen, so long as the Jin Marquisate still stood, she, this shu born official wife, would not be divorced or sent home to face death. So long as he, Jin Fengju, remained in power, he would also guarantee her safety.

It would be a lie to say that she was not moved. This Jin Fengju, who had always seemed like [1] a plague bringing rat to Fu Qiuning, suddenly appeared to be a little taller and loftier. This had nothing to do with love or any tender feelings. Fu Qiuning was giving him a thumbs up based on his ability to foresee future troubles and still making such a solemn promise to her. This guy may be an unfeeling scum to women, but at least he treated his friends fairly and has clearly defined grudges and gratitude. She had to admit, he was truly worthy of being called a real man.

[1] Of this era anyway.

"This humble woman is truly grateful for Young Marquis' protection. It is a pity this humble person is born a woman and of low status, and therefore cannot be of assistance to the Young Marquis. This humble woman is too ashamed of her incapability," Fu Qiuning's words were very sincere.

Since Jin Fengju had given her a promise in good faith, it was like receiving a gold death-exemption plate. However, due to the limitation of her status, she was unable to repay that person. Fu Qiuning, who was accustomed to the modern idea of repaying a favour with something of equal value, felt a little guilty.

"You have some very odd ideas," Jin Fengju smiled slightly as he sat down and took a sip of his tea. "Isn't it only natural for men to protect women? Don't mention your status, I shall not treat you differently had you been higher born. I, Jin Fengju, shall not resort to using women to achieve my goals. Isn't this the role of a true man? Moreover, there's no need for you to be too emotionally touched. Consider this your compensation for the care you have put in to raise Feng'er and Jiao'er. It is what you deserved. Naturally, I am happy to hear from your own lips that you are grateful."

"As Young Marquis had said, this humble woman and Young Marquis are [2] life and death companions. Therefore, how could this humble woman not care about Young Marquis' fate?" Fu Qiuning smiled as she stood up and went to refill Jin Fengju's teacup.

The tea was something that Jin Ming had sent to them some time ago, and was many times better than the tea she had gritted her teeth and purchased with her precious money. As soon as the steam dispersed, a wonderful aroma filled the room

"You are quite the clever one," Jin Fengju took another sip of his tea and sighed. "You said that you have me in your heart, but then say that your care was due to our intertwined fate and had nothing to do with love." He lowered his cup and stared into Fu Qiuning's eyes. "Qiuning, perhaps, not being able to be true marriage partners with you will become one of my few regrets in this lifetime."

"This humble woman's heart is like stagnant water, I dare not claim to be Young Marquis' regret. Many flowers are gathered by the Young Marquis' side, the outstandingly beautiful moutan peonies, pretty and charming Chinese peonies, elegant and exquisite rhododendrons… each one could overturn a country with their own unique charm. Therefore, why cling to a common cattail?

One must know that the world is complex, and the future is impossible to divine accurately. Sometimes, not possessing something might turn out to be the best." Fu Qiuning kept her head lowered as she continued to console earnestly. It could be said that each word was like a polished knife, designed to stab right to the heart. Thus, for a moment, even Jin Fengju could only remain silent in the face of her words.

Seeing that the sun was shifting westwards, Jin Fengju finally stood up and said softly, "I have been here for quite a while. I should return. I'm afraid the Elder Madam wishes to see me for something. I shall see Feng'er and Jiao'er before leaving. You do what you need to do, no need to see me off."

Fu Qiuning responded agreeably and watched as Jin Fengju's figure disappeared through the doorway. Once he was gone, she slumped sideways on the kang bed and downed several cups of tea in one breath. Then, she wiped her lips and grinned. If not for the fact that Jin Fengju was still on the courtyard grounds, she would have raised three cheers to the heavens and shouted out her joy.

The boulder that had been pressing on her heart had finally rolled off, and Fu Qiuning wanted to cheer and laugh out loud. Ever since she transmigrated, the word 'divorce' had hung over her head like a sword that could fall at any time. Even if she did not die outright, she would be seriously injured.

While it was true that she had plans to escape the Zhenjiang Palace and talked big about making a living with a theatre group, it was a last resort plan. After all, for women in this ancient era, breaking into entertainment groups was like stepping into a man-eating devil's cave. Fu Qiuning dared not imagine how a divorced woman, whose only skill was opera singing, could survive in this world.

As for making a living with a theatre troupe, nearly every woman attached to an entertainment troupe had some sort of 'tragic background story'. Therefore, how could she depend on that uncertain way of life? How many people could decide their own fate? Nearly everyone would be dragged along by the currents of fate anyway.

Therefore, when she received Jin Fengju's personal guarantee of allowing her to maintain her leisurely life as an abandoned woman in the paradise that was Night Breeze Pavilion, she was happy beyond words. Though life was busy and laborious, she could eat her fill, dress warmly, sing her favourite opera songs, work on her womanly arts, play the qin and read in her spare time. Moreover, she also had two playful and filial children to keep her company. For the diligent Fu Qiuning, this could be considered a heaven-blessed day.

The sword hanging over her head was finally gone, the sky was clear and Fu Qiuning was so happy that could practically soar like an eagle through the sky. That evening, she gave a complete performance of the Fairy Couple [1] to the children, Yu Jie and Aunt Yu. The few people listening to her songs fell into a daze. Intoxicated by the mesmerising quality of her voice. That night, she was so excited that she could hardly sleep.

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The summer sun blazed in the sky, baking the earth with its heat. Even the willow trees and the flowers were drooping, as though exhausted by the terrible weather.

In the Health & Longevity Court, Old Madam Jin personally held a watering can as she watered her beloved plants. The maid, Luo Cui, watched nervously from the side and finally could not help but say, "Old Ancestor, please allow this maid to water the plants. Seeing you hold such a large watering can is frightening this maid. Why not let this maid water the plants?"

Old Madam Jin gave a cold little sniff and shook her head, "You little slut, you can stay there and stay frightened. Are you trying to say that I'm so old that I could barely be trusted to walk on my own? Well, I want you to see just what 'old and vigorous' looks like."

The words were barely out of her mouth when Cai Yun's cheerful voice came from near the door, "Yes, yes, yes, Old Ancestor is clearly an old steed that aspires to run a thousand miles. Luo Cui, you lack eloquence. What is watering a few flowers? Once our Old Ancestor gets excited, even mountains can be moved."

Before she could continue, Old Madam raised her head and spat. She laughed scoldingly, "Ming Yu, why haven't you come and tear these girls' mouths off? They are getting more and more lawless by the day, to even dare to tease me." She handed the watering can to Luo Cui, "Since you are so afraid to see me water the plants, you can take care of the rest yourself. Make sure to take care of them properly and don't let Fu'shi see them wilting at my place. They grow so well in her courtyard. If they happen to wilt under my care, it would look like we do not care for them."

Granny Ming Yu smiled as she laid some pillows out and helped the Old Madam to the couch, "Amitabha, no matter what kind of confused person she is, she would never have this kind of lightning-inviting way of thought. How the Old Madam treats these pots of flowers and plants, anyone with eyes can tell. Besides, Fu'shi is not a child who doesn't know what's going on."

Old Madam Jin nodded with a smile.

Cai Yun stepped forward to say, "Old Madam, as ordered, satin, needles, thread and food have been sent to Fu'shi. They happened to be steaming corn when we arrived and urged me to bring some back for Old Madam to enjoy. I must admit, this Fu'shi is very considerate. Within this marquisate, none of us had ever enjoyed such tender corn as these."

Granny Ming Yu and Luo Cui both agreed in unison. Old Madam Jin could not help herself as she accepted the plate from Cai Yun. She laughed and said, "Fortunately, my teeth are still good. Otherwise, I would have been bullied by this corn. Though it looks tender enough to leak water, without any teeth, I'd never be able to nibble on it even if I chew over ten thousand times."

Everyone laughed.

While they ate, an announcement from the outside came, "The young marquis is here."

Following that, a hand pushed the curtain aside and Jin Fengju stepped in. Old Madam laughed, "Quick, quick, I haven't had enough yet, but already another beggar came to freeload my food. Chase this beggar out quickly. No, wait, hide these under the plate before letting him in."

Jin Fengju laughed merrily and said, "Old Ancestor, it's too late, this grandson has already smelled it." As he stepped into the room, Jin Fengju's eyes went to the large basin on the table. He laughed again, "No need to ask. This must be a tribute from Night Breeze Pavilion. Such crude things cannot be found elsewhere on the marquisate. What's this? Corn? Heh, well, well, well, I haven't been there for half a month and their corn has been harvested."

Old Madam Jin laughed and said, "Is that right? You had better not eat mine. Go eat at your wife's place. Even if she did not wish to leave any for you, surely Feng'er still thinks of you as his father? Speaking of which, how is it that she could have such fresh things before us?"

"So Old Ancestor does not know. She has a backyard filled with over a hundred corn stalks especially planted for their own enjoyment. Not only that, but they also have pearl millet, common millet, soybeans, and sweet potatoes. These are all personally planted by the mother and children. They said that these are all planted to fill their leisure time."

After speaking, he picked up an ear of corn and began to nibble on it. A mouthful of corn later, he suddenly remembered Old Madam Jin's words and chuckled through the corn in his mouth, "Old Ancestor, don't be angry, this grandson may have nibbled on one stick of your corn. However, I shall return 10 sticks to you by tonight."

Old Madam Jin couldn't help laughing. She sighed again, "Who has so much leisure time to waste? Clearly, that family of three had been forgotten by the marquisate, received neither allowance nor supplies for a long time, and had to depend on themselves for food and clothing, ah! [1] Such a great sin our marquisate has committed. That Zhenjiang Palace too! How could they have the heart to push their own daughter into the fire pit like that? What else were we to do back then? Aih, to have wasted so much time like this, I really don't know what I should do."

"There's no need to worry, Old Madam. The way I see it, they live quite a happy life on their own," said Jin Fengju with a smile.

Old Madam Jin laughed, "I don't go anywhere else most days. How about finding out when the sweet potatoes are ready to be harvested and roasting some? The usual sweet potatoes bought by the marquisate are not very good, not sweet enough. Good grandson, you must investigate this for your granny. When Fu'shi's sweet potatoes are ready to be eaten, you must let me know. [1] I shall make sure to be there."

Jin Fengju hesitated, "If Old Madam likes sweet potatoes, she can send some over to you. If you visit the place yourself, won't it cause too big a sensation? You are our marquisate's most treasured person, ah. Qiuning is very discreet and doesn't like trouble. With so many eyes on you, won't it cause trouble if…"

Before he could finish speaking, Old Madam Jin laughed and scolded, "Did you all hear that? For the sake of his wife, he no longer cares for this old granny of his. What an absolute waste of my affection on this grandson, ah."

Jin Fengju quickly beamed and say, "How could I not care for my grandmother? If Grandmother really wishes to go, let's just go. However, I'm sure the sweet potatoes are not ready yet. We can only resign ourselves to wait for them to mature and choose a time when it is neither too hot nor too cold to pay a visit."

Old Madam Jin said, "Speaking of which, when did you get back? Have you seen your mother yet?" when Jin Fengju shook his head, she smiled and said. "When you're finished with that one, you may take a few ears of the corn for your mother."

Jin Fengju smiled back, "No need, no need, if I give them to mother, she will ask why Fu'shi did not send any to her and call her unfilial. I don't wish to invite more scolding from her." After he ate the last bite of corn from the cob, he wiped his hands and bade the Old Madam goodbye before making his way to Madam Jiang's place.

Old Madam Jin watched as the straight back disappeared down the corridor and could not help sighing. She lowered the half-eaten corn in her hand and muttered, "Aih, did you think that you could change her mind about Fu'shi if you didn't bring any over?"

She sighed again.

Granny Ming Yu said carefully, "From what this old slave could see, it does not matter what Fu'shi does, the Elder Madam would not like her. After all, Second Madam is a niece whom she treats like her own daughter. With that kind of relationship, how could Fu'shi gain her mother-in-law's favour? However, I see that Old Madam favours Fu'shi. Since it is rare for her to go out, why don't you ask her to come and give her greetings?"

Old Madam Jin smiled, "As expected of the old people of the marquisate. How could you not know what I am thinking? However, it is enough to say this to me. Haven't you heard what Fengju said? That Fu'shi likes peace. This is good too, as the saying goes: The one without desires stands resolute. She does not need anyone to give her handouts and relies on herself for everything. In fact, she lives more freely without having to fawn or flatter people for scraps of favour.

However, though a tree wishes for quiet, the wind may not stop blowing. Just because she wishes for peace, does not mean she will have peace. You have seen for yourself, even Fengju has lessened his visits to that place. If I were to do as I wish and call her over for a chat, who knows how many people's sleep would be troubled by this little move? Why should I invite trouble to my doorstep and spread unrest to Fu'shi's place? It is fine to maintain the status quo for now. Personally, I like this arrangement."

She picked up the half-eaten cob and began to nibble at the corn again. After a long while, she laughed softly, "It is Fengju's luck to have married her. It is also his misfortune to not have her. While this might look like a blessing for now, alas! I have no idea why the heavens would arrange such a fate for them."

"How could this old slave even think to guess Old Madam's thoughts? Here, I thought to make some arrangements on my own and never gave any thought to the eyes my actions would attract. This old slave is too hasty," Granny Ming Yu could not help but notice that Old Madam Jin looked a little sad. For a moment she hated herself for being too meddlesome and sought to change the subject.

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Let's move on to Night Breeze Pavilion's side.

Aunt Yu, Yu Jie and Fu Qiuning were currently studying the food and satin sent to them by the Old Madam. Aunt Yu happily cried, "Madam, the Old Madam is truly a good person, ah. She must have known about our situation and sent so many things to us. Before this, she had already sent two large bags of medicine and foreign sugar. Even the Young Marquis remembers us and often sent people here with food, cloth and other items. I think, although they do not say it, they must value Madam very much in their hearts. Otherwise, surely there's no reason to take care of us like this?"

Yu Jie also laughed, "Right? Right? Now that we have enough food and cloth, we did not even spend a single coin of the money that Brother Zhang Shan [2] brought back to us, so Madam could save it up."

Feeling Fu Qiuning's glare, the maid giggled and said, "Madam, please don't glare at me. I know, this is called planning ahead and saving for the future, right? Still, isn't Madam being a little too careful? How could we lose favour now with Feng'er and Jiao'er being so clever and sensible enough to attract the Young Marquis' favour? Why should we live a poor and miserable life like before?"

Aunt Yu nodded in agreement, "I also think that the good days are coming. So, why does Madam look more and more worried every day?"

Fu Qiuning sighed.

She pushed the silks away and sighed again, [1] this time even more bitterly, "Both of you only see these little profits in front of you with no spare thoughts in your head. Think about it, with things coming into our courtyard regularly, do you think it can be hidden for long? Once or twice is fine, but if this keeps up, can you imagine what those wives and concubines at the inner court will think? Have you already forgotten? The Young Marquis spent one night here and Madam Jiang suddenly sailed through our door just a few days later."

When Fu Qiuning mentioned Jiang'shi and the other women, Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao suddenly shivered. As the more outspoken, Jin Changjiao said plainly, "I don't like those people. Mother, let's just not let them in next time, alright? And those younger brothers and sisters, I don't like them either. Their smiles are very sweet but their eyes are very scary, ah. It's like they can't wait to eat me up."

Fu Qiuning, Yu Jie and Aunt Yu exchanged a glance and suddenly laughed.

Aunt Yu said, "Who says that children are easy to trick? Look at our little girl, just how clever is she, ah?"

Fu Qiuning said, "Yes, children are the most innocent. However, they also have the clearest eyes." She stroked Jin Changjiao's little head and said, "Well? Now that you've experienced it yourself, surely you've committed the lesson into your memory? In the past when you first learnt the idioms, 'A honeyed mouth hides the knife in one's belly' and 'A knife hidden in one's smile', you asked 'if one's mouth is sweet, sure the belly will be full of sweetness too?' and 'how could a smile hide a knife?' Well? Do you understand these idioms now?"

Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjao nodded solemnly. Their jade pendants had been taken away by their smiling brothers and sisters who said that they just wanted to have a look. However, even while smiling warmly, they deliberately dashed the pendants on the floor and then said their hands had 'slipped'.

The two children had been naïve and ignorant about worldly affairs. Therefore, that single demonstration of human cruelty and sinister behaviour left a deep impression in their hearts.

Jin Changfeng suddenly said, "Mother, we are not afraid. Didn't we learn the saying, 'When the soldiers come, block them as earth blocks water'? If they do come again, we can deal with them according to this method."

Fu Qiuning, Yu Jie and Aunt Yu could barely suppress their laughter. Fu Qiuning smiled at him, "Oh? Our Feng'er has proposed an interesting idea. Now, let mother ask you, how do you propose to 'Block them as earth blocks water'?"

"By… that is…" Jin Changfeng frowned as he wracked his brains for an answer. Suddenly, he smiled and say, "I know. When they come again, Sister and I will hide all the flower pots in the house. Father's paperweights must be hidden too. As for the flowers in the garden, we must cover them up with our sheets and say that… that we're drying our quilts…"

Before he could go on listing his ideas, the three adults started laughing again. Yu Jie smiled, "Aiyo, our young master, your idea is truly clever. Hahaha, drying our quilts, I'm afraid all our plants and flowers will be squashed flat by your beddings."

Jin Changfeng scratched his head and laughed too. Cheerful laughter flowed from the room and echoed through the small courtyard. Even Fu Qiuning breathed a sigh of relief at the sound of the children's laughter. She thought: That's right, what is there be afraid of? When the soldiers come, just block them as earth blocks water. Jin Fengju is not someone who cannot differentiate right from wrong. I have already been forced into this situation, what else can I do? If those women deliberately come to make trouble, don't blame me for retaliating. If you dare scheme against me, do not think I would not dare take action against you.

While the atmosphere at Night Breeze Pavilion was bright and cheerful, the scene at the distant Clear Soft Pavilion was a different matter altogether.

"How is Zhenxuan's homework recently? Has there been any improvement? Also, it's been a long time since I've heard Xiuzhen play the qin." Seated in Jiang Wanying's room, Jin Fengju casually inquired as he slowly waved his folding fan.

"The two children are doing fine. You are so busy every day, when would you find the time to see them?" Jiang Wanying replied with a smile as her hands busily embroidered a scented sachet. "Lord Husband, I heard that the Old Madam had been sending elder sister quite a lot of things. I am clumsy and awkward in my speech, and dare not inquire into it. I'm not certain if Old Madam blames me for overlooking Elder Sister's situation. These days, I too have sent a few things to Elder Sister, but Elder Sister had been very indifferent and told me that Night Breeze Pavilion had everything and that there is no need for me to send anything to her. Hearing that, I dare not send anymore… Lord Husband, you tell me, what should I do?"

Jin Fengju looked at her pouting lip and aggrieved expression. She looked every bit like the wronged party here. Amused, he thought: Cousin, ah, cousin, aren't you overdoing your acting a little? Whatever Qiuning wants or has, would a slick social schemer like you even care? To pull such a deeply aggrieved and frail expression in front of me, aren't you just trying to sound out my thoughts and attitude? You sure like to do things in a roundabout way.

His smile deepened and he said, "If she doesn't want anything, there's no need to hang about her. No need for you to pay special visits to Night Breeze Pavilion either. Let her have her peace."

Jiang Wanying frowned slightly. She thought: Just what kind of attitude is this? Is this not caring for Fu'shi's fate? Or is he afraid that I will disturb her peace? The more she thought, the more anxious she became. That Fu Qiuning, after hibernating for six years, who knows what kind of means she had used to suddenly grab Jin Fengju's attention? In just one family banquet, she even managed to snag Old Madam to her side. Moreover, even though Madam Jiang had ordered Jin Fengju to divorce this woman, he had contradicted his mother for the sake of keeping this woman in the marquisate. To think even Madam Jiang was foiled. Just how many hidden schemes does this woman have up her sleeves? She, Jiang Wanying, must have been blind these past six years, thinking to defend against the various concubines only to realise late in the game that she had been nurturing a tiger of misfortune in her house.

When she thought of this, Jiang Wanying rose from her chair and stopped in front of Jin Fengju. In a pouty, slightly spoiled voice, she said, "What are you talking about? If I ignore her, how would they survive in this marquisate? Moreover, when she first married in, even though she was the official wife in name, cousin never even looked at her, let alone established any close physical relationship.

Now that you've been there twice, surely she could now be considered a proper official wife? If I keep ignoring her, won't people call me a jealous wife? Is cousin really going to let people accuse me like that?"

Jin Fengju approached the bed and laid down. When Jiang Wanying also came to the bed, he held her in his embrace and smiled, "You're being overly suspicious. Though I had been to Night Breeze Pavilion twice, I've never established any physical relationship with Qiuning. Are you not aware of the connection between the Jin Marquisate and the Zhenjiang Palace? The moment she entered our marquisate, she was destined to live the life of a widow. You worry too much. Don't tell me you don't have enough matters to worry about in the marquisate?

Though it might be a small matter, it still costs you energy. The years you've put into managing the marquisate have made you thin. Each time I accompanied you to your paternal aunt's house during the Lunar New Year, I was always scolded for not taking better care of you."

When Jiang Wanying heard that he and Fu Qiuning did not establish any physical relationship, her worries immediately transformed into joy. However, her face soon turned pensive again and she said with a rebuking tone, "You're telling the truth? You're not lying to me?"

Jin Fengju shook his head and laughed, "Why would I lie to you? She is my wife too. Even if I were to share a room with her, it is right and proper according to heaven's principle, why would I worry about telling you?"

Jiang Wanying's lower lip jutted out and she said, "If that's the case, then, why does Old Madam treat her so meticulously? Isn't it all due to the good things you've said to Old Madam? Don't think I don't know how the matter about the potted plants was revealed. Unless you exposed me, why would Old Madam suddenly invite them to the family banquet?"

Jin Fengju looked at her. His eyes were indifferent, devoid of negative feelings. However, when Jiang Wanying recalled what she had just said, she suddenly blushed. She pushed at Jin Fengju's chest and said, "Why… why are you looking at me like that? It's not like I mean it. Back then, Elder Sister was the one who said she gifted those plants to me. I just thought Old Madam would like them and sent them to her instead. Old Madam was the one who kept talking about how much she liked them, and, and, overjoyed, I happened to forget to say that Elder Sister is the one who raised them.

Later, when you exposed me, it caused me to lose face and Old Madam even thought that I was the kind of mean and treacherous person who would snatch flowers from others and offer them to Buddha. This is all your fault. If you dare suspect me, I'll beat you up," after that, she lightly hammered Jin Fengju's chest in a coquettish way.

Jin Fengju continued to tease her a bit before lying down on the bed to casually say, "Enough, didn't I always say that you're overly sensitive? You still refuse to believe me. What's all this play-acting for? Old Madam must have felt that Qiuning was pitiful and wanted to give her some material assistance. Also, Qiuning could not in good conscience push an old lady's kind regards away, could she? As for me, the only reason I went there was to see Feng'er and Jiao'er. What kind of vinegar are you eating? [2] In what way is she comparable to you? We've been husband and wife for so many years, you've already nurtured my taste as you wish. How could I prefer a person like her?"

Jiang Wanying gave a tittering little laugh, "Well, that is not necessarily so. I have already given birth to two children while that person is still a maiden. You can't guarantee that you won't be moved. I just hope you will continue to remember her identity and keep the humiliation she brought to you on your marriage day in mind. If not for her, if not for your sake, why would I wrong myself and marry into your marquisate as a secondary wife? In any case, do keep your conscience in mind whenever you look at her."

The moment the words left her lips, Jin Fengju suddenly rolled on top of her. Whispered laughter tickled her ears as Jin Fengju said, "That's good, ah. Tonight, I shall stroke you well and show you my regard. When the time comes, do not beg for mercy."

Jiang Wanying's face blushed bright red, unbridled joy and bashfulness suffused her whole person as she lightly poked Jin Fengju's chest. She said, "You said it yourself. If you don't deliver on your promise, I won't care for you anymore."

"How terrifying. But, do not worry, I shall definitely deliver on my promises," Jin Fengju lifted himself up and, after some thought, said, "Still, you should pay more attention to Zhenxuan's homework. I have ordered someone to invite a renowned scholar of great virtue and prestige to come and teach the children. He has agreed to come to the marquisate after his three years of mourning are done this autumn. Do ensure that each of you show me that you take the children's education seriously. I have taken great pains to invite this great scholar. Be sure not to disgrace the Jinxiang Marquisate."

Jiang Wanying frowned, "Isn't Teacher Qi very good? Why invite another scholar? Is Teacher Qi's scholarly achievement not good enough?"

Jin Fengju said, "Although Teacher Qi is not bad, his temper is too mild. Those little brats dare to flip the sky and overturn the earth in front of him. This great scholar is different. He is a true educator. If Zhenxuan fails to live up to expectations, well, I shall say the ugly words in advance. If any of them fail to live up to expectations, I shall break a leg and you mothers are not allowed to cry or make a scene."

He had just finished speaking when Jin Ming called from the doorway to say that Prince Rong had sent a message requesting Jin Fengju's presence. Without further ado, he left.

Once her husband was gone, the smile on Jiang Wanying's face disappeared, replaced by frown lines as she sat at the dressing table, clearly in deep thought. Her trusted maid, Qiu Xia came over to cautiously ask, "Is there something troubling Madam? Didn't the Young Marquis say that he had no relationship with that Fu woman? He's only there for those two children. When it comes to children, Madam has personally borne a son and a daughter, children of much nobler and distinguished blood than those inferior brats. What is there to worry about?"

Jiang Wanying sneered and said, "What do you know? If Cousin really does not care for that slut, would he keep talking her down in front of me? Even now, you do not understand Cousin. I fear that it is possible that even he doesn't realise it himself. The more he insists on talking bad about something, the more it proves how much he cares about it. Though he sounded indifferent, he is protecting that Fu Qiuning.

He's afraid that I would instigate my aunt to get rid of her as soon as possible. His visits might be due to those two vulgar seeds now, but that Fu Qiuning is no simple woman. During the banquet, she hid her edges and displayed a weak presence, yet still managed to put herself in the limelight. Do you dare guarantee that Lord Husband would not grow fond of such a woman after visiting her a few more times?"

"Then… then what should we do? Surely we can't bring those two children here to raise, right?" Qiu Xia's face was bitter. She thought: Indeed, compared to the Madam, the gap between us is too large. I had truly believed everything the Young Marquis said and thought there would be no problem in the future. Who would have thought there would be so many problems and no good solution at hand?

Jiang Wanying also harboured anger in her heart. She could not help the disgust she felt when looking at Qiu Xia. In a cold voice, she said, "You stupid thing, what use are you? Begone and do not bother me."

After Qiu Xia quietly retreated, she got up and paced about the room in annoyance. Suddenly, she heard a faint noise in the distance. After listening intently, she realised it was Xu'shi. That woman was scolding her maid again. Though harsh and vitriolic, that woman still had some sense of dignity and would not scold people for no reason. She must be [1] 'pointing at the mulberry tree while cursing the locust tree'.

When she thought about how she could not even subdue a mere concubine, Jiang Wanying grew even more annoyed and shouted through the window, hatred filled her tone as she snapped, "Enough of your arrogance. One day I shall think of a way and be rid of a scourge like you forever!"

She was in the middle of cursing when the sound of qin flowed like water from next door. She knew that it must be her daughter, Xiuzhen, playing the qin. Slowly, a smile appeared on her face as she sat down to listen.

As the sound of qin continued to flow, Jiang Wanying suddenly recalled Jin Fengju's words about inviting some great scholar to give lessons. A sudden jolt in her brain made her sit up and a bold idea rapidly took shape.

She stood up excitedly, then slowly sat down again, many different emotions flashing in her brilliant eyes. After some time, a sigh escaped her lips and she smiled to herself. "Dear cousin, you just can't bear to part with those two vulgar seedlings, right? Well, Xu'shi is also the brash and domineering type. So much so that she makes you feel ill at ease.

It's alright, your cousin will help you recognise the true nature of those cheap brats. You can even rid yourself of one troubling woman. However, all this would take time, at least a year and a half's worth of work to carry out a plan that would leave no trace. That's all right, you can take your time and see for yourself what disgusting things they truly are. When that happens, I wonder, how do you plan to thank me? Hahaha…"

Jiang Wanying was practically squirming with pleasure as she proudly refined her schemes. The feeling of arranging plans and strategizing against her enemies was truly enjoyable.

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In the blink of an eye, nearly two months have passed. The osmanthus flowers in the front and back yards of Night Breeze Pavilion were blooming. When a gentle wind picked up, the sweet wave of fragrance it carried lifted everyone's spirits.

"Madam, since today is the first day of autumn, shall we make jiaozi [2]? I had just picked some celery from the garden, see how bright and sweet they look?" Aunt Yu held out the bundle of celery in her hand for Fu Qiuning to inspect. "I was thinking we could also make some into cold salads. Now that we have some fragrant sesame oil, we can make some stuffing with the leftover pork we bought yesterday. Young Master and Young Miss like celery and pork stuffed dumplings."

"Alright, let's do that." Fu Qiuning glanced over the bundle of celery before bending down to continue with her embroidery. Suddenly, she heard footsteps in the courtyard followed by a clear voice saying, [3] "No need for light blues or deep red, it is naturally the best of flowers. I had not expected the osmanthus at your place to blossom so well."

Fu Qiuning's lips pursed into a smile and she said to Aunt Yu, "Looks like the Young Marquis is here again. It had been a few days since we last saw him, I had a feeling we would see him in these two days."

As she spoke, she went out to greet the man and saw Jin Fengju stepping into the living room. He helped himself to the pot on the table and poured himself a cup of tea. He downed the tea and said, "It's such a nice day. So rare to have such cool weather without the blazing sun and a good breeze blowing. Yet, you're still here and not outside enjoying the osmanthus flowers? I see the fruits on the jujube trees are now plump and green. It's about time to harvest them, so why are you still cooped up inside the house?"

Fu Qiuning's reply was to laugh and say, "I have just sat down to do a little sewing, but you just have to walk in and see me hidden inside the house. The osmanthus has been blooming for days now, who knows how many days I'd already enjoyed them. As for the jujubes, it is not yet time to harvest them. Once autumn is here and the fruits have fully ripened to a brilliant red, we can harvest them."

Jin Fengju shook his head and said, "How can you not understand the basics? If you wait until the jujubes have turned red, eight out of ten of them would be food for insects. Therefore, you cannot wait until they fully ripen. We should harvest them now, let the sun bake them a little and they will be soft enough to eat."

At this, he saw Fu Qiuning and Aunt Yu hiding their smiles behind their sleeves. He frowned and defiantly added, "What's this attitude of yours? I, your lord, am bestowing knowledge to you and yet you do not appreciate it?"

Fu Qiuning finally laughed and said, "It is not that we do not appreciate it. We did not expect Lord Husband, who is born with a golden spoon, to know this."

Jin Fengju's reply was smug, "That is so. While your lord husband cannot distinguish between the five grains, I am at least clear on this point." He sat down and unfolded his fan. "Who let me love jujubes since my youth? At first, I did not understand this fruit, and only after many years of investigation did I learn this valuable lesson. Now, there's no need to be dissatisfied. Not many people knew the secrets of jujubes after all. Now that I've told you, you should appreciate my benevolence for not demanding a lesson fee."

Fu Qiuning and Aunt Yu could not help but laugh. On the surface, they pretended to learn from the Young Marquis in earnest. [1] Still, everyone was aware that it was all a little harmless playacting.

On Fu Qiuning's side, she felt that this Jin Fengju was very different from that frank talker last time. Though he had stopped by now and again and acted like a careless fop nine times out of ten, she knew that he must not be like that at most times. She still remembered his first two visits, the one from 5 years ago and the first one this year. He was also very well behaved and indifferent during the Dragon Boat Festival banquet at Old Madam's place.

This person's thoughts were too deep. She could not see his true intention and could only guess that the Young Marquis must have made some assumptions about her and deemed her and her courtyard a safe place to let his hair down, [1] which was why he was a little more childish and flirty.

Yu Jie came in to pour the good tea for them. Jin Fengju took a sip and turned to Fu Qiuning, "What are Feng'er and Jiao'er doing?"

When he heard they were busy studying and practising calligraphy in the study, he nodded. Then, in a solemn voice, he said, "There's something I wish to speak to you about. No matter what, you are still a woman of the house. Once Feng'er and Jiao'er grow up, I'm afraid you won't be able to keep on educating them. So, why not let them enter the clan school? I just happened to invite a great scholar to come and educate children. It took a lot of effort on my part to invite this master.

Moreover, this master is famous for being strict. He will quickly expose those few worthless ingrates in my house and not let them run around unchecked anymore. As for Feng'er and Jiao'er, although they are more disciplined than the rest, I want to nurture their talents further. Next year happens to be the year of the [2] Great Competition. In three years, Feng'er would be 12 and can participate in the Tongzi examinations [3]. What do you think?"

Fu Qiuning frowned. She said nothing for a long time. Jin Fengju also did not hurry her, just leisurely sipping his tea on the side.

In fact, he could decide the matter on his own as the master of the family. However, when he thought of how Fu Qiuning had been making all the decisions for this little family, and considering how well brought up, intelligent and sensible Feng'er and Jiao'er were, he unconsciously took a step back. He felt that he could discuss serious matters appropriately with this person. Moreover, his respect for her rose each time he remembered how she had repaid years of grievances with virtue.

"This humble woman believes it's a good thing. However, if Feng'er and Jiao'er enter the clan school, this humble woman prefers to remain within Night Breeze Pavilion and never return to the inner court. This humble woman is also not willing to let the children into a place where too many strifes and disputes abound. If you allow them into the clan school, I'm afraid that is enough to raise thoughts in some people's hearts."

That was Fu Qiuning's answer after much deliberation. She could see Jin Fengju's sincerity and decided that this risk was worth it. Moreover, it would be a good thing for the children.

"Done, let's settle it that way. Be at ease, I will not let them leave Night Breeze Pavilion. After all, with you here, where would they live if not here?" Jin Fengju smiled and sighed. "As the saying goes, '[4] It is better to raise favour than to birth it'. After raising them with tender care all these years, I can see that they treat you as their true mother. If I were to order them to move away, the first one to be hated would be me. In the end, I, their blood father, cannot be compared to a loving mother like you. Don't look at how close they seem to me, they are only a little sticky because I don't come often."

Fu Qiuning smiled, "Even so, Lord Husband should not presume on their sincerity. After all, nothing could trump blood relations. However, now that Lord Husband has brought the matter up, this humble woman has something that I wished to ask after…"

Seeing Jin Fengju raise his eyebrows, a signal for her to speak frankly, she sighed and said, "The question was something that this humble woman had asked five years ago. Back then, Lord Husband's response was a little perfunctory. Therefore, I wish to ask again. Now that Feng'er and Jiao'er have both proven their abilities, will you still not enter their names into the family genealogy? If you let them enter the school but not the family genealogy, would they not be badly bullied at school?"

Jin Fengju muttered half to himself, "So, it is this matter. It is my neglect. No matter, when we offer sacrifices to our ancestors this coming New Year, I shall see to it that their names are included in the family genealogy. As to whether they would be bullied or not, I dare not give any guarantee. After all, it is common for children to revere the strong and step on the weak.

When I was a child, even I fought with my elder brothers. The most important matter is for Feng'er and Jiao'er to be properly educated and learn about life. As the young master and young miss of a noble family, how could they be compared to the children of ordinary households? The fact that they could be educated under you for so many years, I consider them luckier than the rest of my children. Don't you agree?"

Fu Qiuning only smiled, "All I ask for is a promise that you will enter their names into the genealogy. As for the rest, it is as you said. It is fine to arrange matters this way. I shall inform them about attending the clan school. I'm sure they would be very excited to hear about it."

Jin Fengju stood up, "They've already studied for quite a long time, right? It's about time to rest. I shall go see them now. I want to go pick jujubes together."

Fu Qiuning also stood up. She laughed and said, "Of course. However, I caution Lord husband to be careful of the [4] assam nettles in the tree. They are furry poisonous caterpillars often found in the north. All three of you be careful now."

"I know, with me here, what are a few poisonous caterpillars?" Jin Fengju raised his head and suddenly said, "I shall have lunch here. That's right, I want to ask you, when will you dig out the sweet potatoes? The Old Madam has been asking after it for a long time now. It felt like each time I went there, she would ask me about it. I do think the Old Madam is looking forward to tasting the product from the marquisate's estate. She kept saying that the ones from the outside aren't sweet enough."

Fu Qiuning smiled, "Yes, the Old Ancestor is quite elderly. I heard that the older a person is, the more childlike they will become. I'm afraid the sweet potatoes cannot be dug out until Mid-Autumn Festival. This humble woman promised to send some to the Old Madam."

Jin Fengju suddenly laughed, prompting Fu Qiuning to ask, "What is Lord Husband laughing about? It is you who want my sweet potatoes. Are you disdaining this humble woman's offer of sweet potatoes as too poor for the Old Madam?"

Jin Fengju hastily waved his hand, "No, no, the thought that these sweet potatoes would only be ready during Mid-Autumn is funny. Just think, ah. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, people normally offer up all kinds of mooncakes and fruits, but our household would be the only one with a large basket of sweet potatoes on the table, wouldn't it be funny?"

Fu Qiuning laughed too. She shook her head, "It is all thanks to Lord Husband's ingenuity. Many planted sweet potatoes, but not one of them would offer these to the moon. For you to send these to the Old Ancestor, if the Old Madam finds out, she will spit on you."

Jin Fengju grinned, "You clearly do not know the Old Madam. So long as she could eat good things, what could she not do or endure? Therefore, you must inform me when you deliver the sweet potatoes. Enough, you go on with your own business. I shall fetch Feng'er and Jiao'er to collect jujubes in the garden. Just look at these trees, we have a lot of fruit this year."

"Is the jujube tree the only fruitful tree in the garden? Does Lord Husband eat fewer peaches and apricots during summer days? Although it is not something especially good, after being reminded by Lord Husband, this humble woman has also sent some to every house."

At the mention of this, Fu Qiuning suddenly became angry. She remembered the day when Jin Fengju came to her house and she kindly washed two peaches for him. However, just because he found that they tasted good, he had her send some to the Old Madam. When he heard that Fu Qiuning already sent peaches to the Old Madam, he proceeded to order her to send peaches to Madam Fang and Madam Jiang's place. In the end, not only the elder madams but even those random wives and concubines of Jin Fengju were given some.

In fact, not a single courtyard or pavilion in the marquisate was left out of the largess. After sending them around, there were only a few left. In the past, she could have sold these peaches for 400 or 500 coins. This year, they were all spent purchasing favours. Luckily, the rice, flour, eggs, meat as well as other necessities for Night Breeze Pavilion had been taken care of by Jin Fengju and this reduced the need to spend money. Otherwise, Fu Qiuning would have died from heartache.

When Jin Fengju heard her say so, he merely gave a faint smile before leaving the room. Not long after that, Fu Qiuning heard the Jin sibling's happy cheers from the yard. She stood up to look out the window and saw Jin Ming hurrying over through the door, showing something to Jin Fengju. Jin Fengju nodded, said something in a muffled voice and Jin Ming scuttled towards the house. She guessed that he must have something to pass to her and sat down again.

Sure enough, a few moments later, Jin Ming came scuttling through the door with a box in his hands. He presented the box respectfully to Fu Qiuning and said in a soft voice, "These are the jade pendants that the twins broke two months ago. Master had them sent to Song'shi's store and turned into gold-inlaid jade ornaments. The work was not easy and they were only done today. I have shown them to Master and received his approval for the work. These will now be handed to Madam for safekeeping. He also mentioned that, as the brother and sister will be harvesting jujubes today, they can wear these tomorrow."

"Very well, I have troubled Steward Jin for having to take this trip," Fu Qiuning smiled her thanks. Jin Ming repeatedly said 'This servant does not dare, this servant does not dare' before retreating after another salute.

Once he was gone, Fu Qiuning finally opened the box. A glance inside, and she could not help but hiss out a cold breath of air. These really were the twins' jade pendants. The pieces have been reattached with gold. [a] Its flaws were artfully covered with beautifully patterned gold designs. While their market value might have fallen, to Fu Qiuning's eyes, they were even more exquisite and excellent than before.

She cannot help but be reminded of the Beijing Olympic gold medals back in modern times. Naturally, these gold-inlaid jade pendants were far more exquisite than a medal. The soft and gentle white jade shot through with dazzling gold, woven in a complex and beautiful pattern, gave them a glittering and exquisite feel. Aunt Yu and Yu Jie happened to enter the room at the same time, so Fu Qiuning showed the pendants to them. The two maids had nothing but praises for the pendants.

Fu Qiuning turned her eyes towards the courtyard and saw that Jin Fengju was already in the tree. He must have some martial arts skills to climb trees so easily. He shook the tree a few times, and jujubes, as well as branches and leaves, fell like rain. Meanwhile, Jin Ming and the two children stood far away from the tree. This guy must have remembered her instructions and made the children wait at a distance for fear of having insects stinging them.

"The Young Marquis will be having his meal here today. You two go and have a quick look at the kitchen and make the necessary preparations."

Fu Qiuning gave out instructions gently, but she was secretly sighing, thinking: Jin Fengju, this slag man, actually acts a bit like a father now.

The affection he showed towards Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao is really not ordinary love or spoiling, but she could not help but think: If these two children had not studied sagely books, qin, chess and calligraphy from her, if these two children had always been that kind of "grandma does not kiss, uncle does not love" type of children, would they still be able to evoke a deep affection within that man's bloodline?

After thinking over the matter for half a day, she still did not know the answer. After all, they were living in a present where she had educated those children and they managed to catch their father's favour. There was no point indulging in 'what ifs'. However, thinking back to how quickly Jin Fengju transferred his affections from his other children to the twins, whatever softening she had felt for Jin Fengju halted and her heart froze back to solid ice again.

Think about it, the man currently shaking the tree and smiling happily at his children was the same one that abandoned his wife and children ruthlessly for over five years. Cold ruthlessness dwelt deep in his bones. She could never give her heart to such a man. After all, one would never know whether he would suddenly switch back to being a scum bastard again.

The two large jujube trees in the courtyard were soon bare. Most of the jujubes had been shaken off. The mats placed below the trees were now filled with large red and green fruits. The sibling cheered and was about to rush forward when Jin Fengju said, "Wait. Wait for Father to dispose of these stinging caterpillars [1]. It would be painful if you get stung."

With that, he picked up a branch and began to jab at the wriggling caterpillars. Once satisfied that they had all died, he finally allowed Jin Ming to pick up the jujubes with the children.

[b] Amused and a little concerned, Fu Qiuning came over to look at the twitching little grubs. Then, in a gentle voice, she said, "What happened? Were you stung? Let this humble woman take a look. We happen to have some ointment in the house for this, do come and apply it quickly."

"N-no, who said anything about being stung. Nothing happened," Jin Fengju waved his hand so quickly that he might as well be flapping it. Are you joking? He had just boasted to Fu Qiuning about how these measly insects would never touch him. If he went and applied ointment then, wouldn't this drag down his manly image? Therefore, he could only harden his mouth like a duck's beak and keep waving his hand at her. In fact, the back of his neck was really hot and painful.

Fu Qiuning looked at all the partly squelched caterpillars that had been viciously stabbed to death, and she knew that he must have been stung. Also, this playboy was usually very smooth with his words. So what was that stutter just then? Realisation dawned on her quickly, but her mouth continued to help this Young Marquis maintain his face.

Feeling amused and irked, she could only say, "If that's the case, would Lord Husband please accompany this humble woman to the living room? There's something this humble woman wishes to show Lord Husband. Jin Ming can help the children pick up the jujubes."

Jin Fengju knew that she had seen through him. Moreover, his neck was really hot and painful. No matter what, he was still a delicately brought-up young marquis with tender skin and precious flesh. Although he was trained in martial arts, he had never suffered war and had barely been injured. If he had suffered knife and sword wounds in his life, this kind of insect sting would have been nothing.

Therefore, he obediently went with Fu Qiuning to the living room. Suddenly, he said, "Don't keep saying 'this humble woman' 'this humble woman' anymore. It sounds so distant. No matter what, we are officially husband and wife. How about addressing yourself with 'I'?"

When Fu Qiuning nodded, he quickly looked around to see if there was anyone around. When he saw no one, he sighed with relief [c] and finally allowed himself to contort his body in order to relieve the pain in his neck. He was in the middle trying to dare himself to touch the painful spot when he heard Fu Qiuning's voice, "Where is the sting? You-"

[c] Jin Fengju twisted his head and saw Fu Qiuning with a container in her hand. He had already pulled the back of his shirt away, exposing the angry red nape. Since he had immediately gone to the Night Breeze Pavilion after court, his hair was still up. Otherwise, the wretched stinging caterpillar would not have the opportunity to fall into his collar.

He crouched a little and pointed to his neck, "These things really don't bother me, but who would have thought that one would fall into my collar. For such a tiny thing, it's kind of painful."

Fu Qiuning stepped forward and saw the painful marks on the back of that master's neck. She could not help her exclamation of surprise. "Goodness, this bug is not small. It must be a mature one to have stung such a large area."

When she applied the ointment, Jin Fengju was the one who exclaimed in surprise at the cool and refreshing feeling, "What is this ointment? Did you prepare it yourself?

Fu Qiuning laughed, "Do you see me as omnipotent? This ointment was something the old ancestor gave me. She was worried about the many insects that might be hidden inside Night Breeze Pavilion, and especially gave this and some other medicines to me. Unexpectedly, you are the first beneficiary."

While still speaking, she continued to apply the ointment evenly to the stung area. Finally, she straightened up and said, "I shall be going outside now. Lord Husband may take off your clothes and see if there are any more insects hidden within the folds. Be attentive and do not let them sting you again."

"No need." Jin Fengju also straightened up and sat down on the kang bed, "If there were any more bugs, would they wait until now to sting me? I would have been stung until I have no intact skin left." He raised his head and looked through the window. The twins and Jin Ming had collected all the jujubes in a large basket. Suddenly, he asked, "What were you doing outside just now? How did you know I have been stung by these things?"

"If you had not personally suffered, would you have been so cautious? Indeed, you were paranoid to the point of making sure to kill all the fallen caterpillars before allowing Feng'er and Jiao'er to pick up the jujubes. People are often wise after eating a loss." As she placed the ointment into the drawer, Fu Qiuning continued, "I planned to fetch some jujubes and steam a pot to eat. I had completely forgotten about it after tending to your matter."

"Jujubes can be steamed?" Jin Fengju was immediately curious.

Fu Qiuning laughed, "But of course. Surely Lord Husband has eaten steamed jujube buns and New Year cakes stuffed with jujubes? Are they not delicious?"

Jin Fengju said, "Of course, they are good, but they are usually dried and stuffed in a bun before they are steamed. Are you saying these half-red, half-green jujubes could be just as delicious when steamed?"

"When they are done, won't Lord Husband know when you try it? As the saying goes, 'though ten thousand changes pass, it still retains its root'. It doesn't matter if they are green jujubes or dried jujubes, they will always taste like jujubes. Surely it is not possible for them to taste like stinky tofu after they are steamed?" Fu Qiuning finished with a smile before turning around and making her way toward the garden.

There was no special meaning behind her smile. She was mostly amused by how such a brilliant Young Marquis could be so dumb at times.

Unexpectedly, the Young Marquis was the one left dumbfounded by her brief, amused glance. Stunned, he sat in place for a long time in his chair. After some time, the corners of his lips curved up in a smile and he said to himself, "For someone who strived to appear ordinary, her eyes could be so vivid, ah. In fact, one could even call it flirtatious?"

Please read this at kitchennovel dot com ~

During lunchtime, a plate of steamed jujubes appeared on the table. Curious, Jin Fengju picked one up and ate it. When the steamed fruit entered his mouth, it felt sweet and as tender as cotton. Although it was not as unctuous and sweet as the ones in steamed buns, it had its own pure fragrance. He had always liked jujubes and could not help eating more. The more he ate, the better he became at peeling the steamed jujubes skin. Gradually, he only had to pinch the jujube a little and a large piece of skin would be taken off.

Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao displayed the terrible side of genetics as they too showed similar interest in the jujubes. In short, because Jin Fengju loved jujubes, the twins ended up loving this fruit too. For a while, their chopsticks fell like rain upon the plate of jujubes. Fu Qiuning had not even touched one yet, but the plate was already empty.

"Is there any more? Bring more out," Jin Fengju actually raised the empty plate and shook it at Aunt Yu, who was just standing behind Fu Qiuning.

Fu Qiuning snatched the plate away and set it aside with a huff, "These are not something that could be easily digested. From the way you three eat, you will give yourself belly aches." She turned to Aunt Yu and said, "Bring out the digestive soup that I had made earlier for Lord Husband, Feng'er and Jiao'er." She smiled at Jin Fengju and said, "I don't usually let the children have that many either. Unexpectedly, your presence made me break the dinner table rules."

After drinking the soup, Jin Fengju leaned back on the quilt at the head of the kang bed like an old master. Fu Qiuning looked at his lazy appearance and couldn't help but laugh, "What's this? Am I right to say that you plan to take a nap at my place?"

"If you had not said it, I would never have noticed. However, now that you've mentioned it, I do feel a little sleepy," Jin Fengju stretched out the kang bed, grabbed a pillow and opened his arms welcomingly at Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao. "Come, my son, my daughter, let father hug you to sleep."

"You may sleep on your own if you like. They still have to practice the qin," Fu Qiuning said indifferently as she led the children out by the hand. Jin Fengju had laid out quietly on the bed, spread out like a beauty in a painting for a moment before he realised that Fu Qiuning had really left with the children.

Suddenly, he sat up and hollered, "Practice the qin? I'm about to take a nap and you want the children to practice the qin now?! Are you trying to stop me from sleeping? Fu Qiuning, qin practices are not allowed, you hear me?"

His answer was the sound of plucked strings drifting leisurely from the study not far away. Jin Fengju sat in place and gnashed his teeth as he glared in the direction of the study. A long time later, with nothing but the unceasing sound of qin practice around him, he fell backwards and covered his ears with his hands. He muttered, "This is wrong, this is wrong, I should never have made that vow back then. That is not my woman, therefore, she is not easy to deal with, ah. Cousin sister and those concubines, have any of them dared to treat me like this? Humph, try to stop me from sleeping? That just makes me want to sleep more. You just watch." With that, he held his breath [1] and eventually, did, in fact, fall asleep.

He slept for nearly two hours. When he finally woke up, the house was deathly quiet, missing even the sound of birds chirping. As for Jin Ming, he had no idea where that servant had gone.

"That disgraceful thing, don't tell me he had hidden somewhere to laze around?" Jin Fengju stretched and rolled on the bed a little more. That earth made kang bed was even more comfortable than the custom-ordered Chinese Rosewood bed he had imported from Suzhou.

He got up, tidied his clothes, put on his shoes and walked out. The entire courtyard was silent. He pushed aside the bamboo curtains and headed for the backyard. The greenery there was lush and beautiful, but there was no one around. Soon, however, he heard the sound of laughter coming from the kitchen.

"Is it time to make dinner?" Puzzled, Jin Fengju approached the kitchen and saw that the entire floor, wide though it was, was covered with jujubes. Jin Ming was also there, busily packing jujubes into various bamboo or willow wicker baskets together with Aunt Yu and the others. As far as he could tell, they were picking out the twigs and dead leaves from the pile.

"So this is where you all are. Yi? Where's Qiuning?" Jin Fengju stepped into the kitchen. Jin Changjiao immediately picked out two large, red jujubes and handed them to him, sweetly saying, "Father, you can have these now."

"Mm, my good child." Jin Fengju stroked his daughter's head and took a bite. Indeed, they were very sweet.

"Madam is in the study." Aunt Yu replied with a smile. Jin Fengju nodded, turned around and headed for the study.

When he stepped into the study, he noticed Fu Qiuning busily writing something on paper. Curiosity rose in his heart and he thought: Could it be possible that Qiuning is also practising her large words?

Quietly, he went over to take a look. The paper was dense with small words. From what he could read, the last few lines were: [2]

"Zhongqing [3]:

A deserted and silent place, a past once filled with affection.

Recall the past, a couple as sweet as honey.

Recall the past, a couple as sticky as paste.

A sudden thunderbolt breaks a clear sky,

A sudden animosity struck from nowhere.

A lamentable old mother bitter with opposition,

A lamentable couple's bitter sobs.

A divorce letter, a sign of eternal goodbye,

Two lines of hot tears split the guts.

The waning dusk makes it hard to search for people,

The waning dusk falls upon empty ruins.

Lanzhi, you wove five pieces of cloth in three days, O the cloth!

Lanzhi is gone, do you know?

She and I were born on the same pillow, we will die in the same pit.

Why did you, you of a thousand silks and ten thousand threads,

Ten thousand threads and a thousand silks

Unable to tie Lanzhi to me, ah?

I shall renew my oath to Lanzhi,

Though our bodies may separate our hearts will never part.

I hear talk that her brother and mother are hurrying her to remarry.

I heard her leaning against the door, hoping for my visit.

Today is the day of her bigamy, it is I who have wronged my virtuous wife

Today is the day, when peacocks fly southeast, after death the peacocks shall rest together!