After morning court, he reconvened with the other ministers to talk about resettling people to the wild lands at the emperor's study. Therefore, it was almost noon when he finally left the palace. Jin Ming was waiting for him at the palace gates. At the sight of his master, he trotted over to say, "Master, would you be returning to the estate? Or will you eat a meal outside before going home? It's been a while since you have visited a restaurant."

Jin Fengju laughed and said, "What good thing is there to eat at a restaurant?"

Jin Ming beamed back and said, "Rumour has it that several restaurants under Master Peng's name have just introduced the Second Madam Ning's hotpot. The new menu is very well received. Shall we go and have a taste?"

Jin Fengju raised an eyebrow, "What's that? They have been introduced? Very well, let us go."

Thus, Jin Ming led the way to Drunken Cloud Pavilion. They happened to find Jin Pengzhan there with some former classmates of his. These classmates have all become Seventh, Sixth or Fifth Rank officials, how could they not be happy to eat a meal with such a celebrity? He was the sharpest of His Majesty's officials and the most favoured one of them all. After eating and toasting these officials for an hour, [1a] if Jin Fengju had been any less aware of his own dignity, he would have been drunk by now.

After leaving Drunken Cloud Pavilion, Jin Ming found his master muttering to himself as he walked. "No, no, mustn't dress up as a ghost as the first tactic, what if I scare her to death? To start with, I should…"

Curious by the random word salad, Jin Ming warily asked, "Master, what are you talking about? What's this about dressing up as ghosts?"

Jin Ming stopped muttering long enough to [1a] chuckle to himself, "When did you develop such heavy curiosity? Will you die if you do not ask? Go away, no need for you to eavesdrop. Go and find some colourful snakes for me. I want those non-venomous types. Must be those that could not lay eggs. I don't want Night Breeze Pavilion to become a snake's den."

"What? Night Breeze Pavilion?" Jin Ming's eyes widened. He quickly looked left and glanced right, seeing nobody, he scuttled closer to Jin Fengju to say, "Master, your meaning is… you wish to place snakes inside… Night Breeze Pavilion Why, ah? What if you scare Second Madam Ning? Won't you feel bad too?"

Jin Fengju sighed [1b] very deeply and said, "What else could I do? Qiuning did everything she could just to not move out of Night Breeze Pavilion. Now that she had personally spoken before Old Ancestor and Elder Madam, I dare not force her too much anymore. I can only try some small tricks in secret. En, I have considered the matter carefully. Do recall the day you brought the gecko to them last time? Neither Yu Jie, Aunt Yu nor Fu Qiuning was afraid of it. Therefore, one could say that their guts are not small. I don't believe that a few snakes could scare them to death."

At this, he suddenly sneered, "That Wanying is too clever for her own good. The maids by her side are the same. You said that Qiu Xia had screamed at the sight of the gecko, well, back then I had not thought much of the matter. However, thinking back, it must be a show purposefully created for you. After all, the Gecko Sand was made from these things. Wanying had to have handled those creatures with Qiu Xia.

Naturally, they can hide this matter from you for a while. However, did they never think that in summer when we spend days catching the cool breeze outside, just how many geckos have we seen? She was not afraid at that time, so how could she be so frightened now? Clearly, she was just being overly dramatic. Humph."

Jin Ming quickly nodded, echoing his master's words. They were nearing Jin Yang Street, which was named after Jin Xiang Marquisate and Xiang Yang Marquisate. Even though the Xiang Yang Marquisate had moved away, the street name remain.

"Master, I shall go and purchase the snakes now, please return to the estate first. This servant believes that good news will arrive within five or six days," said Jin Ming with a grin. Then, he quickly turn a corner and rushed off in a different direction. Indeed, as Jin Fengju contemplated his clever scheme of using snakes to 'force the snake out of its hole', he could not help the smile of triumph spread across his face.

Thanks to this incident, Jin Fengju had shown some subtle dissatisfaction with Madam Jiang. As for Jiang Wanying's side, there was really no need to mention her, he had not stopped by her place at all. Madam Jiang had swallowed her anger and pleaded with her son on her niece's behalf. However, all she received from him was 'Once Qiuning moves out of Night Breeze Pavilion, I will enter Clear Soft Pavilion'.

Madam Jiang was angered. However, as she was in the wrong first, she dare not make a fuss or bring the matter up before her husband. Jin Yu still had no idea what had occurred, something which made Madam Jiang recite thankful prayers. Therefore, she could only muddle onwards and wait for Jin Fengju to calm down in the next few days.

On Night Breeze Pavilion side, Fu Qiuning was feeling very energetic and refreshed. Her daily life was particularly enjoyable. The sight of budding flowers and brilliant new shoots, and flowers blooming on apricot and peach trees made her beam. Every day, servants swept the fallen petals into piles at the base of the tree. Fu Qiuning turned to Aunt Yu, and said, "The days are getting warmer. Have the servants clear away the weeds. The mice, rats and ants would be coming out of their nests soon."

Suddenly, they heard Yu Jie's scream from the yard. Fu Qiuning and Aunt Yu hurriedly ran out, calling, "What happened? What happened?"

They saw Yu Jie running at them, excitedly pointing at a patch of grass. "Madam, I just saw a snake, a really large and fat snake [2]. It's just coiled right over there."

Aunt Yu was shocked, "Really? Is time for them to leave their holes? Don't they often come out later?"

Yu Jie said, "Just come and see it. Heaven must know that I have been craving for Snake Soup and especially sent this fat fellow here to satisfy my appetite." She turned excited eyes at Fu Qiuning, "Madam, shall we use the old method? Pick it up with a stick and smash the head with a stone?"

One of the old matrons said, "Amitabha , this young lady's words are too sinful. Of all the animals in the world, the snake is the most enlightened. There are a great many stories about snake spirits everywhere, now you want to eat it? Are you not afraid of retributions for your sins?"

Yu Jie immediately turned and, with her hands on her hips, said, "How interesting. Here I thought all living beings are equal. Why should one suffers retribution for eating a snake and not suffer anything from eating pigs, chickens and ducks? Since most people in this world eat meat, wouldn't we all suffer retribution?"

Fu Qiuning smiled, "Enough, Yu Jie, no need to say more."

[3a] Back when the three ladies and two children were suffering from a lack of food and clothing in the first few years of living in Night Breeze Pavilion, there was hardly any meat to be had. The poultry was kept mainly for their eggs and a lot of them were sold for money to purchase warm clothing and bedding. During the hot summer months, they would encounter the odd snake or two in the tall grass.

In Fu Qiuning's previous life as Fang Chuyu the Southerner, she used to enjoy eating snake soup at restaurants. However, it was one thing to enjoy a tidily prepared soup at a table and quite another to encounter a live snake in the grass. However, for the sake of the children's nutrition, she dared herself to lift the snake with a stick and have Yu Niang and Yu Jie smash its head in with large stones.

Snake meat has a strong fragrance and was particularly tasty in soup. At first, Yu Jie and Aunt Yu felt disgusted by the prospect of eating snakes. As for the children, so long as there was something good to eat, they were happy. Slowly, Aunt Yu and Yu Jie got used to the idea of eating snakes. It was a wonder how people could change under the extreme pressure [3a] of poverty.

[3b] Since it was rare for them to have meat, the maids and children eventually associated snakes as a wonderful treat during their times of hardship. This was probably why Yu Jie was so excited to see the snake in the grass. She immediately seized a sturdy stick and picked up the snake. [1c] She was about to move it to the porch where Aunt Yu was already ready with stones in her hands when one of the older male servants yelled, "Miss, don't move."

The male servant quickly rushed over, grabbed the snake and hurled it violently against the wall twice, upon which the fat snake fell over and remained motionless.

"Wow, Uncle Lin is really incredible," Yu Jie clapped her hands and laughed. "This way is much better, it saves us from having to clean up the smashed head afterwards. I swear, we need to clean the place several times to clear the blood away."

Uncle Lin laughed, "I think miss is really incredible. You are not at all afraid of picking up snakes with a stick." He sighed, "I am from Ling Nan, and everyone there loves to eat snakes. Don't look down on these creatures for being scary looking, they tasted really good. My great-grandfather and father are renowned for their snake soups and work for big restaurants just making these soups. Later, I came to the Capital to avoid a disaster, never expecting to find that people here dare not eat snakes. Moreover, they even revere the snakes like deities, rendering the skills I inherited from my forefathers useless. Aih, it truly is delicious, it's just too bad that everyone is afraid to eat it."

He was still sighing when Yu Jie's eyes actually shone with light. With a laugh, she cried, "Is Uncle Lin truly skilled at making snake soups? That's too incredible! We at Night Breeze Pavilion don't follow this belief. In fact, our Madam, Young Master and Young Miss all love eating snakes. You must take this snake and clean it up in the kitchen and allow us a taste of your culinary skills. Usually, our Madam is the one who makes these soups, but she insists that her skills could barely be counted as mediocre despite how delicious it is. I don't believe her at all. However, since Uncle Lin has inherited your forefather's skills, could you really make it taste as good as dragon's meat?"

Fu Qiuning laughed, "Even if Uncle Lin could make it as good as dragon's meat, would you know it? Leave aside eating dragons, nobody has seen ever seen one."

Uncle Lin happily said, "Madam and the miss like eating snakes? Heavens, ah. This… this is too wonderful. Madam, please wait, now that the first snake has appeared, I fear that there could only be more in the backyard. I shall go and see if I could catch a few more. Please be at ease, I shall raise them at my place and not let them out to frighten people. So long as Madam wishes it, I shall pick a fat one to make soup."

Yu Jie giggled, "Uncle Lin, are you sure you can resist eating them all before serving any to the Madam?"

The slender, middle-aged uncle laughed as he carried the large snake away.

Fu Qiuning smiled, "I had thought he was a little different from a northerner. Turns out, he came from Ling Nan, no wonder he is good at cooking snakes. Back in the village, a Ling Nan cook once secretly killed a snake and secretly gave Grandma and myself a share. Otherwise, [3c] I would have never have thought that snakes could be eaten, let alone taste so good."

Maids and Mistress chatted together happily, excited for dinner.

Jin Fengju had no idea what had happened at Night Breeze Pavilion. That evening after changing his clothes at his study, he hurried over to Night Breeze Pavilion. The moment he set foot into the courtyard, a cheerful Yu Jie came up to greet him, "Master is here? What excellent timing, we are having a treat for tonight's dinner."

Jin Fengju had no idea that the 'treat' spoken by Yu Jie was the snake that Jin Ming had especially brought over, only to 'die upon graduation'. Thinking that it was another one of Fu Qiuning's unique eating methods, he smiled and said, "Sounds good, ah. I look forward to seeing what your Madam had made."

Then, he looked around, still smiling, "Has anything… interesting, happened today?"

"What could there be? How could Elder Madam or Second Madam Wan be so quick to return here?" Yu Jie was a straightforward girl with a quick tongue. It was only after the words were out of her mouth that she realised that it might have been a little too impertinent. Luckily, Jin Fengju was too distracted to pay attention to her. She quickly slapped her mouth and beamed ingratiatingly at him, "Madam is in the house. Master should go in quickly. Speaking of which, Steward Jin did not come?"

How could Jin Fengju dare say that Jin Ming was 'suffering from pangs of conscience' and could not bear to come to face the ladies? The fellow was so afraid that someone would really be frightened to death or illness from seeing the snakes and refused to support his master. Jin Fengju slowly smiled, "Oh, him, ah? He has some business that needs to be taken care of and will not be here tonight." As he spoke, he privately scolded Jin Ming: You worthless fellow. Just look at Yu Jie's appearance. Clearly, your comrades failed to make an impact at Night Breeze Pavilion. Instead, you scared yourself so much that you dare not even come here. How odd, didn't he say that he brought five or six snakes? Why did no one find even one of them? Wu, could it be that it is too early for snakes to be active and those lazy bones just found somewhere to hide and nest? Is that why no one has discovered them yet?

"What is Master looking for?" Seeing Jin Fengju looking around the gardens so intently, she could only venture to ask what the master was doing.

"Oh, nothing much. Just looking at the flowers in the trees. Hmm, looks like they are withering now." Jin Fengju quickly reeled back his eyes and tossed out a random reason.

Yu Jie grinned to herself and thought: Although Master is really smart, he cannot escape his background as a natural bookworm who lacks knowledge of the common world. Flowers withering is something that happens every year, what's so fascinating about it? Aside from those overly dramatic literati, who would care about those things?

However, she let none of these thoughts out, merely snickering to herself as she led Jin Fengju into the receiving room.

When Fu Qiuning saw him enter the gates, she [1a] received him at the entrance. After he sat down, she poured him a cup of tea [1a] and said, "I supposed Yu Jie has already revealed everything to you?"

"Indeed," Jin Fengju beamed ingratiatingly. [1c] "I wonder just what is it that could make your maid so excited. Since it is so good, shouldn't you be busy in the kitchen? Or, could it be that this thing takes no time at all to make?"

[2b] Fu Qiuning gave him a strange look. However, she took the opportunity as presented and answered with a quiet 'Of course' and left the room. She did not have to make the Snake Soup since there was an expert [1c] around, but Jin Fengju did not have to know that. Instead, she said, "Set the table, Yu Jie, I shall go and check on the soup."

[1e]

[3b] As Fu Qiuning left the room, Jin Fengju finally realised his misstep. He thought: What was I thinking asking the woman I love to check on whatever is cooking? I could have been sitting with her in this room now!

There was nothing for him to do but wait as time ticked by. Finally, after some time, Yu Jie came in to announce that dinner was ready. [3b] Jin Fengju hurried over to the dining room and saw that Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao were already there. The children came over to salute him smartly. [3c] He thought: Ah, even my children treat me better than my wife~~

He went over to pick up each child by the waist and happily ran to the kang where a table had already been set. He watched as Fu Qiuning helped the children out of their shoes and directed them where to sit on the kang. He ended up sitting opposite Fu Qiuning as they waited for Yu Jie to bring the main dish to the table.

Jin Fengju surveyed the tableware with some satisfaction. Although they were not some luxurious golden bowls or silver chopsticks, the tableware were all exquisitely made and much better than the crude bowls and chopsticks from before. When Yu Jie arrived with a large covered bowl, he looked at it with anticipation.

Yu Jie set the bowl on the table and removed the lid, releasing an enticing aroma that immediately filled the room.

"It smells really good. What is it?"

Fu Qiuning looked at him for a moment, "Lord Husband did not know?" [1c] Then, she muttered half to herself, "No wonder, it is a rather rare dish in the north." [1f]

"Well, it smells [4] really good. Like a very good chicken soup with plenty of ginger." He smiled benevolently at Fu Qiuning. Considering her frugal nature and her attachment to the produce in her garden, it's probably one of the chickens she had personally raised and not something like bear paw or deer tendon. Therefore, he should show extra consideration when eating this soup despite its common ingredient.

Jin Changjiao had already helped herself to a bowl and smiled charmingly at her father, "Father, you must try this quickly. It is very, very delicious. When Brother and I were younger, our bodies were very weak. It is thanks to this soup that we are now so healthy."

Fu Qiuning laughed [1g], "Well, meat in general is good for growing children."

"But this is extra, extra good. Aunt Yu and Yu Jie said so," Jin Changjiao insisted. "Brother and I think so too. Mother, did you forget? When we were really, really poor back then, we can't even have meat during Lunar New Year, but thanks to this, we could still eat well." She beamed sweetly [1h] at her father. "Anyway, Father should try it. It's a great favourite and a wonderful treat we all love."

Jin Fengju had already helped himself to the soup. [4] He guessed that it must be some kind of wild animal caught in the gardens. Perhaps an eel or turtle? They did have a pond… But the meat did not look like either… It is definitely not rabbit either. He savoured the soup carefully in his mouth and smiled at Jin Changjiao, "Indeed, it is very fragrant and delicious. Although I must say, I can't tell what kind of meat it is."

Even as he spoke, he kept drinking the soup, even nibbling at the white meat.

Fu Qiuning and the twins kept their mouths shut, staring as the man unknowingly ate the snake soup. As they watch him take a second bowl, she said, "It's fine if you think it's delicious. After all, there is no need to greet the chicken that laid the eggs you eat, yes?"

The comparison did not quite make sense, but Jin Fengju had [3d] scented another potential dish to bring before the emperor. If he could bring another dish to tease the emperor's appetite, he could sing Fu Qiuning's praises before the Sage again and perhaps even raise Fu Qiuning's status even more. Beaming with pride at this scheme, he said, "Well, since this is such a good nutritious thing and something I never had even at the imperial dining room, I could recommend it to the emperor, just like the hotpot from last time. The emperor really enjoyed the hotpot. I do believe he would enjoy this soup too-"

[3e]

"Pffftt!"

He was interrupted by laughter from Yu Jie, Aunt Yu and [3e] Jin Changjiao. Jin Changfeng was looking away, his face a little pale. Fu Qiuning also had a rather frozen look on her face. [1i]

"What's the matter?" Jin Fengju was really shocked. He warily looked at the bowl in front of him. "Wait, don't tell me this is something like, like… rat meat? Well, well… even so, hahahah! There is no need to worry, back when I had to issue a decree to the borders, I happened to get caught up fighting the Northern Army under General Chen. However, we ended up trapped on a hill and most of the food, even tree bark had been eaten up before reinforcement arrived. I remembered we even trapped rats in the forest for meat. Even so, I must say that this one soup is definitely better than the one we had!" He took another large gulp of the soup. [4] Indeed, he mustn't forget that this soup was made back when Fu Qiuning was living in abject poverty. How desperate for meat they must have been then? He must show enthusiasm no matter what!

On the side, [3f] Jin Changjiao piped up, "Rats are nicer when roasted. Especially those that had been eating our crops." [5]

"… I see, then, this is…" Jin Fengju looked at his bowl again.

Finally, Fu Qiuning took pity on the man and said, "Yu Jie found a large python today and-"

Suddenly, Jin Fengju coughed. He covered his mouth, but he must have swallowed wrong because the coughing fit did not stop. Aunt Yu quickly poured a glass of water for him while Jin Changfeng patted his father on the back.

"Cough, cough, cough…" it took a long time for Jin Fengju to get over this coughing fit. His entire face was flushed red as he stared at them all. "Qiuning, you… did you say this is… snake… Snake Soup?

Fu Qiuning nodded, "Yes, it is Snake Soup."

[3f] "Father, didn't you eat rats before? Snake is tastier." Jin Changjiao quipped. "Right, Brother?"

Jin Changfeng coughed but did not contribute to the conversation.

[3e]

Jin Fengju sat in place like a frozen statue. After a long time, he lowered his head and said in a faint voice, "You are saying… that you found a snake in your yard and… and caught it? Yu Jie caught it? And you ate it?" He sneaked a glance at the young maid standing on the side. He thought: Just… what kind of girl is she? Is she still a girl? It's one thing to not be afraid of geckos, but surely most women would run away from snakes? Would any venture forward to catch them?

Fu Qiuning laughed softly, "Indeed, Yu Jie is the one who caught it. Generally, we will smash the head in after picking the body up with a stick. We were in luck today as one of the new servants happened to be from Lingnan and was very proficient in catching [2d] and cooking snakes. Lord Husband is lucky today, because Uncle Lin came from generations of chefs specialising in Snake Soups."

However, Jin Fengju did not look like he felt lucky at all. He pressed a hand to his chest, still unable to believe what he was hearing. "You have been… eating snakes for… over a year?"

[3g] Fu Qiuning raised an eyebrow. She thought: Just what is this fellow's problem? Is he being dramatic again? Whatever, let's just answer his question.

"For over five years, Lord Husband. Back then, while the crops have yet to mature, we had to do our best to find food and clothing. The children were very young, so I did my best to provide meat for them. Grass snakes and pythons could be found among the long grasses here, as well as a few rats which we would sometimes fatten with scraps. Frogs were often too small to eat, but the ducks liked them. Even after we established our small poultry farm, we still look forward to catching the occasional snake during autumn as a treat. Snake Soup is not only nutritious and nourishing, it is also very delicious."

Jin Fengju was completely speechless. Was this woman truly the shu-born daughter of King Zhenjiang's Heir? Even as a shu-born girl, surely she should have been brought up to be a delicate lady? Right? Still unwilling to accept the situation before him, he said warily, "So, you… all of you… that is… none of you is afraid of being bitten? Don't women often run away screaming from the sight of snakes? Why are you all so… resilient?"

Fu Qiuning [2e] stared at him for a moment, a trace of suspicion was starting to enter her mind. Didn't Yu Jie mention that it was too early for snakes to appear? Moreover, these snakes were usually fat… Could it be… However, it would not benefit her to bring the matter up before the perpetrator. The man would lose face, as for her… she would lose so much more… Therefore, she could only smile and say, "There are very few venomous snakes in the north. Pythons, especially large ones, don't tend to be venomous at all. The little grass snakes would run away rather than bite a person, so there is no reason to fear them."

Jin Fengju, "… …"

"In fact, we do scream whenever we see a snake," said Aunt Yu excitedly. "When Yu Jie saw the snake, she screamed so loudly and excitedly too. These things don't tend to come out during winter, so it had been ages since we had Snake Soup. Last year, our harvest was particularly poor, we barely get to see snake skins, let alone a whole live snake. This snake is too unlucky, the moment this girl clapped eyes on her, she immediately seized it for dinner."

Gumihou: I believe that this snake arc is for us to see JFJ being particularly sweet and silly, and more importantly, lend him a vibe of 'it is all harmless fun, lolz~'. It's not working on Gumi.

The 'Yu Jie thinks the master is a bit silly, tee hee' is also one such scene to make us see him as harmless.

Gumi also destroyed the cute teasing scene of FQN baiting JFJ with what dinner was supposed to be. It was overly done, draggy cutesy to showcase 'sweet moments'.

Jin Fengju… had nothing to say.

The smile on his face was uglier than a crying face as he nodded and coughed, "I-is that so? Yu Jie is certainly brave. Not bad really… not bad…" he looked down at his bowl of Snake Soup and thought: Brother Snake, ah, Brother Snake, I have wronged you. I sought your assistance, but who would have thought that due to a miscalculation, I have sent you directly into a wolves' den instead? You have died an aggrieved death. A pitiful death without a corpse to bury… Oh, I supposed you are now buried in our bellies?

"Enough talking, let's eat." Fu Qiuning noticed that Jin Fengju's bowl was empty. After some hesitation, she asked, "Does Lord Husband want another bowl [1a]?"

Jin Fengju paused, before nodding fiercely and said, "Another bowl." He was truly not disgusted by the idea of eating snakes. To be honest, if he had known that snakes would be so delicious, he would have eaten them sooner. He thought: Valiant Brother Snake must be happier to be buried within my Five Viscera Temple [3] rather than be eaten by those who had murdered him so viciously.

Thus, with this justification in mind, he, along with Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao gulped down most of the soup between themselves.

While he was stuffing himself with the remains of his former comrade, he heard Yu Jie say, "Madam, Lin Sheng is waiting outside."

"Let him in."

Yu Jie quickly pulled the curtains aside and let Lin Sheng into the dining room.

"Greetings to the Marquis and Madam."

Like most southerners, Lin Sheng was a sharp and intelligent person. Seeing the half-finished bowl of Snake Soup on Jin Fengju's side of the table, he knew that he had managed to capture the Lord Marquis' appetite.

Sure enough, Fu Qiuning beamed and said, "This Snake Soup is very well done. You did your ancestor credit. The Lord Marquis, Young Miss and Young Master all enjoyed it very much."

"It is this lowly one's honour," Lin Sheng was smiling so widely that his eyes could hardly be seen. When Jin Fengju awarded him five taels of silver, he puffed up so much that it was a wonder that he did not float away. Happily pocketing the reward, he said, "So long as the Master and Madam enjoy it. Earlier, this lowly one searched around the yard and found five more large pythons! It must be Master and Madam's luck. Right now, I am keeping them in my house. So long as Master and Madam give the order-"

Cough!

The Snake Soup in Jin Feng's mouth spluttered out. He thought: Good, good, very good. Jin Ming really did place six snakes in this yard and you people have caught all six in just a day! What kind of shocking efficiency is this? Jin Ming, ah, Jin Ming, [2a] thanks to you, I am now feeling guilty. I actually feel ashamed to be here. Do you know that the person who is suffering from shock now is your master and not the women of this courtyard? Your mom, ah, my heart nearly stopped.

This [2b] so-called young marquis, who was [2b] supposedly the most elegant and refined scholar, ended up using crude words in his mind. Though he would sometimes curse people in the privacy of his mind, he seldom lowered himself to crude or dirty words. After suffering two major shocks today, expletives exploded in his heart for the first time in 20 years.

That night, [2b] after taking out his frustration at the world by tossing Fu Qiuning about, he still could not sleep. Each time he closed his eyes, he thought of his failed trick and [2b] mourned the fact that he had lost against Fu Qiuning in a battle of wills she did not even realise was happening. Now that he had failed, and badly at that, what other tricks could he bring up to frighten the people of Night Breeze Pavilion?

Why are the nerves of the women in this place so unreasonably tough? He had a sneaking suspicion that if he released two black bears into this place, he would be presented with bear paws for dinner the next day…

No, he had to think of something more frightening to scare these people out of Night Breeze Pavilion.

Thus, he pondered obsessively over the matter the whole night.

The next day, on his way to morning court, he found Jin Ming also equipped with panda eyes. However, he could not rejoice in his servant's suffering. Instead, with a cold snort, he said, "This master was plagued with serious matters all night and did not sleep well. What ails your sleep? You looked like you have rubbed soot around your eyes."

"This servant suffers from fright, ah." Jin Ming pulled a bitter face and said, "Master, perhaps you do not know, when I bought those snakes home two days ago, my woman accidentally saw them and was so frightened that she fainted right away. Yesterday, this servant was plagued with worry, what if Second Madam Ning and the two ladies were also frightened by these snakes to the point that they fainted?

Master, this servant had thought over the matter. It is this servant's fault, I should never have bought those large snakes and so many of them! This lowly one should have just bought two small snakes to scare them a little. No matter what, Madam is a noble daughter from a great family, Yu Jie, a slim and delicate girl, as for Aunt Yu, she is more gentle and even-tempered that any woman this servant has ever seen…"

As Jin Ming spoke, his sharp servant's intuition picked up on his Master's strange expression. His master looked strangely… angry? He hurriedly stopped speaking and worked his mind over what he had said before carefully saying, "Master, you… is there something wrong? Could it be that… that those snakes had really frightened Madam sick?"

"Frightened them sick? You wish!"

The weather was warm and Jin Fengju was feeling irritable, which was why he was walking to the palace with Jin Ming without taking the sedan chair. Seeing Jin Ming's rapidly paling face, he spat on the side of the road and snarled, "Let me tell you, those six snakes that you bought were eliminated in barely half a day in that courtyard. One of them had already been turned into Snake Soup and served at the dinner table. I, your master, even had two bowls before realising that I have eaten my own comrade. The rest of the army had been rounded up and now awaiting their sentence at Madam's leisure to be turned into soup. You say that you should not have bought the large snakes? If you had released two tiny snakes into the courtyard, Qiuning, Feng'er, Jiao'er and those two gentle and delicate women you're feeling so sorry for would have complained that the snakes are not big enough to make a full meal and wished for bigger snakes to plague their land instead."

"Ah?"

Jin Ming was really confused!

"Master, s-surely that can't be right? Y-you say that Second Madam Ning and the rest actually saw the snakes and… instead of being frightened, they caught them and ate them? How… how can this be? Master, is this servant dreaming?"

"How I wish you are indeed dreaming," Jin Fengju sighed a long sigh, then shook his head. "It is true, Qiuning told me that they had been eating snakes for over six years now. All snakes that dare poked its head around that courtyard had all been eaten by those ladies. Aih, it is also my [2a] mistake for throwing them there. Who would have thought that without a source of income, [2b] instead of appealing to the kindness of the Old Madam or myself, Qiuning would turn to killing snakes to make tonic soups for the children?"

"To… to think that Second Madam Ning would… this… what a heroine, ah." Jin Ming's eyes were wide as he tried to reconcile the thought of those three weak and delicate women with the brutal action of killing and eating snakes.

"Quick, help me think of a way. What other ways can we employ?" Jin Fengju frowned seriously, "I still do not wish to have people dress up as ghosts to frighten people. People could really be frightened to death. Come now, can't you think of a way to frighten them out of that place?"

Jin Ming swallowed. He thought: Even snakes are caught and eaten by them, what else could frighten them, ah? After a long time, he ventured to say, "How about… leeches? Ah, but leeches could bite and suck people's blood, what if they injured Madam and the children…"

A cold snort from Jin Fengju cut him off, "You think snakes don't bite people? What happened in the end? Didn't they end up in a soup? If you dare release a few dozen leeches, what if I come to dinner one day and be served a large bowl of stewed leeches? You want this master to not eat for a few days, do you not?"

Jin Ming stared at his master with wide eyes. He mumbled, "S-surely not? Surely Madam and the Young Master and Young Miss can't be so… frightening?"

Jin Fengju snorted again. He then raised his head and sighed a long sigh before lamenting, "Then, have you ever imagined that any of them would eat snakes? I heard that when Yu Jie found the large python, her eyes flashed with light and she even drooled."

Jin Ming's leg softened and he nearly collapsed to the floor. After a long time, he muttered despairingly, "Master, you have no other options. You must release the ghost. So long as you do not make this servant play the ghost."

"Even if you are willing, it cannot be done," this single line from Jin Fengju allayed Jin Ming's fears. His master continued to mutter, "What if Qiuning does not believe in ghosts and ordered those servants to surround you with sticks? If you can't escape, they would beat you to death, [2c] perhaps turning you into an actual ghost in that place as you died a wronged death."

"… Master, this… do you think… surely Second Madam Ning and the ladies… surely they do not eat human meat?" Jin Ming's legs were trembling so much that he could not escape his master's kick.

"What nonsense are you saying? Just because Qiuning eats snakes, you can't dishonour her like this. If I hear anything like this again, I shall have your lips sewn shut."

"Yes, yes, yes, this servant has misspoken. Only, Master, where are you going to look for these ghosts?" Jin Ming lightly slapped his own mouth even as he beamed ingratiatingly at his master.

"I believe I shall have to get help from the bodyguards," was Jin Fengju's answer after a long thought. The bodyguards he mentioned were the people who accompanied him during his errands as the Imperial Envoy. Although they were not stationed at the Duke of Jing's estate, they could be mobilised by Jin Fengju at any time. More importantly, this team of fewer than 100 people were all qinggong experts, people who could leap over walls and trees easily. Which was why Jin Fengju decided to let this little errand fall on their heads.

Immediately, Master and Servant begin to discuss the finer details of their scheme as they made their way towards the palace.

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After court, Jin Fengju invited a tall and slender bodyguard called Yang Ming to a meal. This person was one of the most skilled at qinggong, thus the perfect candidate to play ghost. During the meal, he outlined his plan to Yang Ming. At first, the bodyguard refused. What kind of joke is this? You want me to play ghost and frighten your sweetheart a little? It is one thing if your plan works, but what if she dies from fright? Would this young master take responsibility? Of course not! He, the bodyguard, would be blamed! Isn't it too much of a black pot to carry?

However, Jin Fengju was not one to give up so easily.

The usually cool and calm Marquis suddenly began to eloquently describe the atrocities that Fu Qiuning and her two confidantes had committed against Comrade Snake. Eventually, Yang Ming was convinced. After all, he thought: If these ladies were not afraid of catching and eating snakes, surely they would not be too frightened of ghosts?

It was with this thought that he finally accepted this high-level mission with a to-die determination to succeed at all costs.

On the appointed day of the scheme, Jin Fengju went back to the estate to discuss the finer details of their prank. He wanted to meet up with Yang Ming to discuss his ghostly costume. After all, the one he was playing a prank on was his beloved. What if it was too realistic and he actually really frightened Qiuning out of her mind?

In the end, after much discussion, Yang Ming was the one who grew frightened of freaking someone out and stammered, "Young Marquis, perhaps… it is better for this subordinate to not show up at all. What if this subordinate just make some flapping sounds behind the Madam, and make audible 'huu~' sounds along with a few shadow tricks? That way, it would not be too frightening."

Jin Fengju pondered over the thought for a moment before nodding. Indeed, this was a good plan. Thus, he gave the go-ahead for this new plan. Beside him, Jin Ming beamed, "That's right, that's right, this is a better plan. By chance the Madam is not afraid, it is not too late for the actual ghost to appear-"

A kick from Jin Fengju cut him off. His master growled, "You crow-beaked idiot! Can't you speak something good? Do you want I, your master, to suffer until who knows when?"

Jin Ming dare not say anything more. He thought: This master of mine is really unreasonable. You are the one who could not deal with Second Madam Ning, but I am the one who has to suffer your ire. If Second Madam Ning could move into Elegant Mansion sooner, I shall also be as happy as our Master and not have to participate in these schemes, ah.

Once the plan was decided, Jin Fengju went back to the inner court and had his meal at Concubine Xu's place. Then, with the excuse of needing to work in the study, he left. Naturally, he did not go to his study, but sneaked quietly to Night Breeze Pavilion.

He found a hidden nook just outside the courtyard gate and hid himself. The sky had completely darkened and there were a few big trees just outside Night Breeze Pavilion's gate, therefore it was very easy to hide. A short while later, Yang Ming appeared right on schedule. After giving two cuckoo calls and hearing the two owl calls from Jin Ming, it was time to start.

Coincidentally, it was the exact time when Fu Qiuning was looking through the twins' homework in the study. After tucking the children in, it would be the ladies' turn to go to bed. Yang Ming leapt lightly onto the roof, hung upside down by his toes on the eaves and blew sharply at the back of Yu Jie and Aunt Yu's necks before disappearing back to the roof. His actions were faster than lightning.

Sure enough, both Yu Jie and Aunt Yu shrieked at the sudden gusts of air. Fu Qiuning quickly turned around, "What is it?"

Yu Jie trembled and said, "Madam… j-just now, it felt like someone blew at this maid's neck. It- it had never happened before, this… c-c-could it be…"

Beside her, Aunt Yu was also nodding frantically, "I felt it too. It really felt like a breath. Heavens, ah, Madam… could it be… could it be some kind of… thing?"

Fu Qiuning frowned, [1a] someone blowing at the back of necks? This had never happened before. This brought to mind the other thing that had never happened before. The sudden arrival of not one but six fat snakes, but not a single chicken, duck or even a chick was missing. What sort of odd coincidence is this…

Even so, she decided to play along, "Something of thing? What thing? Are you talking about ghosts? En, well, I guess it is possible." She said dismissively. "It's fine, it's probably just passing through and spilt out some dark energy. Just ignore it and all will be well."

"M-madam, that's a ghost, ah. A ghost! A-are you not afraid at all?" Yu Jie was a shivering ball of fear.

Jin Ming and Jin Fengju, the two schemers felt a little comforted by this. They thought: Brother Snake, who had died a most tragic death, this fearless woman who had killed you is now frightened half to death, may you rest in peace knowing you have your revenge.

"It's not like I'm not afraid. However, I have never done anything that would court death or the fury of the spirits, therefore I do not fear ghosts that come knocking in the night," Fu Qiuning said as she continued to walk to her room. "As for you two, let me ask you, have you done anything bad lately? If not, why are you so frightened- [2] eep!"

[2] "Eep!" the maids reflexively screamed. Yu Jie was hyperventilating.

[2] However, Fu Qiuning merely smacked her soundly on both cheeks, "Enough with that. Don't wake the children or the other servants. I just saw a shadow passing by. I do believe you're right, but…"

[2] "G-ghost! Ghost, ah!" This time, Aunt Yu was next to Yu Jie, huddling and trembling with fear. "Wh-what should we do? What should we do!?"

Fu Qiuning looked around, the shadow was gone, but she still had to deal with these two trembling maids. "Maybe the passerby wanted some travelling money. Send someone out to buy paper money tomorrow and we'll burn some for them tomorrow night. Poor thing, looks like even in death, money is very important for travelling."

"M-madam, are you not afraid at all?"

Fu Qiuning looked at the window where she had seen the shadow and smiled, "Aren't ghosts just souls of people who had shed their flesh? Without flesh, what harm could they do to us? It is one thing if we have wronged them and they haunt us for revenge, but since we have nothing to do with them, what is there to be afraid of?"

"M-madam is really not afraid of things that come knocking?" Yu Jie looked like she was about to cry.

"Not really, to be honest, I'd like to meet one. I wonder what the afterlife is like. I also want to know, when an old person dies, would they revert back to their youthful looks? Or would they enter the underworld as old and bent people? Is the underworld filled with old people? I can't know unless I ask them, right?"

[2] Hidden on the roof, Yang Ming nearly tumbled off. He had whooshed across the window directly in the Madam's line of sight just to frighten her, but… what kind of backbone did this Madam have, ah? Are you some kind of spirit or immortal yourself? What normal person would even think about meeting ghosts and asking them questions, ah?

Aunt Yu's trembling voice said, "S-surely not, all kinds of people die each year, including the young. Surely, the underworld can't be full of the old…"

Fu Qiuning said, "Well, isn't it normal for the old to die first? Unless there is a war, of course. Thankfully, our nation is stable and happy. With the protection of soldiers and other people who defend the nation, more people die of old age than any other reasons…"

Meanwhile, Yang Ming retreated in defeat, abashed and guilty…

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"Young Marquis, I believe it is best to give up on this scheme. This pretending to be a ghost thing will never work."

Jin Fengju had stationed himself by the gate, waiting for his beloved to scream in fear before leaping out from the shadows to 'coincidentally appear' before his beloved to perform the Hero Rescuing the Beauty act. However, the only thing that came out of this scheme was his bodyguard slinking like a goose with a broken wing. Before Jin Fengju could ask his questions, Yang Ming had already sunk his plans with this one statement.

"Imperial Guard Yang, no need for such defeatist words. We have yet to launch the main attack. Our Second Madam Ning's courage is great, so how could a few gusts of wind frighten her? Now that we know that she is not so easily frightened, surely we can now put on proper makeup and launch another attack tomorrow night? I'm sure she would be frightened then." Jin Ming quickly supported his master. What a joke, if this ghostly trick failed here, what other ways could they use to force Fu Qiuning out of Night Breeze Pavilion, ah?

"Jin Ming is right. Yang Ming, do not be discouraged by temporary setbacks. What did I say to you before? One must keep fighting in spite of setbacks and never give up. Come, tell us in detail what happened tonight. We are too far away to hear what they were saying, but I have the impression that Aunt Yu and Yu Jie were frightened. It looked like only the Second Madam maintained her composure." Jin Fengju was a little embarrassed to call Fu Qiuning by her name in front of his subordinates and addressed her by 'Second Madam' instead."

"There is no need for the Young Marquis to be modest. The Second Madam is clearly a heroine in her own right. This subordinate had been with Young Marquis for many years and had to question my own eyes and ears. Just where did this courage and composure come from, ah? It is as though nothing could shake her," Yang Ming was about to continue when he saw Jin Fengju waving a hand, indicating for him to stop.

Indeed, this information alone was enough to make the Marquis press a hand over his heart in pain. Yang Ming looked at his leader sympathetically, he thought: Luckily the Marquis had been trained from birth till now on ways to maintain his composure. Otherwise, in the face of such a Madam, surely the Capital's most beautiful man would have been tormented to death? Why is there such a bold and daring woman, ah?

"Master, what… what should we do next?" Jin Ming blinked his eyes at his master, thinking: What a tiresome person this Second Madam Ning is, ah. Look at how she makes us men miserable. Even our poor Young Marquis, with his unparalleled wisdom and schemes that won him battles from a thousand miles away, unexpectedly kicked an iron plate when it came to the Second Madam. Moreover, this iron plate was red-hot and covered in spikes.

"Move according to the original plan. Dress up well for tomorrow," Jin Fengju announced expressionlessly as he stood up.

"Ah? We… we are still going through with the ghostly costume?" Yang Ming was becoming anxious. He thought: I am no match for Second Madam Ning, ah. Young Marquis, please spare this one.

"Success or failure will be decided in one stroke. If this scheme truly fails tomorrow, I shall never trouble Imperial Guard Yang again," Jin Fengju patted Yang Ming's shoulder comfortingly before turning around to leave.

"Imperial Guard Yang, our Master has never treated anyone with such courtesy before. It shows just how much esteem he has for you. No need to make such a face. Didn't Master already say? Regardless of whether the scheme is a success or not, he would not trouble you anymore," Jin Ming said with a beaming smile.

However, Yang Ming was not at all comforted by his words. After all, [1b] he of all people knew just how tricky and cunning this Young Marquis was. That the Young Marquis had already stepped on this dark road of sending ghosts to plague the Second Madam, and if it were to end up in failure, the Young Marquis would only come up with another clever trick to achieve his goals.

What 'shall never trouble' me again?

[1b] Until the Young Marquis gets what he wants, he would use this poor Imperial Guard again and again.

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"Has Fengju been sleeping badly? The dark circles under your eyes are rather prominent," the old emperor raised his head from looking at various memorials to adjust the glasses at the bridge of his nose. That's right, glasses. Although Fu Qiuning had not seen them yet, things like glasses already existed in this world. The Old Madam did not need to read any fine print, and therefore did not need them.

"To answer Your Majesty's question, this minister is just anxious over some household matters," Jin Fengju answered respectfully. He had just handed over the memorial for the impeachment of the Ministry of Rites. As the official censor, he had the power to start rumours. Naturally, he wielded this power with prudence. Without evidence, he would not act.

"Oh? What kind of household matters? Tell Us about it, perhaps it could relieve some of your worries. We have lived many more years than you," the emperor placed the memorial back on the table and looked at this young man, whom he regarded as a son, with great interest. After all this young man was incredibly intelligent and capable, therefore, it was difficult for the emperor to imagine just what kind of problem would cause Jin Fengju to lose sleep. Thus, the emperor became inordinately interested.

On Jin Fengju's side, he was dumbfounded to hear the emperor's question. He thought: Your Majesty, ah. When did you become so curious about other people's business, ah? Could it be that you caught the old people's nosiness from the empress dowager?

Even so, there was no way he could give voice to these thoughts, instead, he vaguely said, "It's really nothing much. Just some general issues. The relationship between my wives and concubines is not very harmonious, ah."

The old emperor nodded sympathetically at this. He sighed and said, "That's right, ah. Women's hearts are like needles at the bottom of the sea. Who knows what they are really thinking? As the emperor of three palaces and six courtyards, it is even more difficult to maintain harmony between the many imperial concubines."

Jin Fengju was quick to echo, "The emperor is right, this minister only has five or six wives and concubines at home, but already suffers a terrible headache from their antics."

The emperor laughed out loud, "It is no wonder they would fight. You are very good-looking. So young, but already a man of high position with great riches, what woman would not love you? I fear the battles between your wives and concubines would only become fiercer from now on, ah. A few days ago, the Empress spoke to Us, saying that it had been a few years since you last added anyone to your harem. We heard that she intends to matchmake you with someone. However, We also know that you do not pay much attention to matters between men and women, and declined on your behalf."

Jin Fengju thought: What? I… I already have seven or eight women in my inner court, the empress still has the time to care about me not adding any new people into my harem these past few years? This… this idle old lady, if a decree for marriage actually came down, my heavens, ah. Others aside, if Qiuning finds out… I'm afraid…

He automatically flinched at this thought. With a trembling heart, he dropped to his knees with a 'putong' and in the most sincere voice, cried, "This minister thanks the emperor for his kindness. Should the Empress think of this minister again, this minister begs the emperor to please intervene. Though this minister is considered young, all this minister's energies have gone to ministering the country and there is no time to waste on inner court disputes, ah. What if a fire happens again, wouldn't this minister be a laughing stock of the common people?"

"Hahaha…" the emperor could not help but laugh out loud as he slapped his thigh. "What is it? To be frightened to this point? Be at ease, the Empress is merely speaking in passing. There is not only you, there are many princes and princesses that have yet to marry."

Jin Fengju hastily said, "That would be the best, Your Majesty, this minister is very grateful."

As he spoke, he climbed to his feet, thinking: What just happened, ah? Luckily, the emperor is someone who loves the people and is diligent in his governance. Otherwise, should the emperor be the type who likes to meddle and watch the fun, my life would have been ruined.

After exiting the imperial study, Jin Fengju wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, thinking: No, I must find a way to have the Old Madam enter the palace for a little chat with the Empress. Otherwise, she might suddenly spring a woman on me.

As he plotted, he eventually made his way towards the palace gate and found Prince Rong waiting for him. The prince pulled him aside and said earnestly, "Brother, you must not refuse me today. Come with me to my palace today."

"Brother-in-law, I really, have some important business to attend to today. Another day, I promise to come to your doors with food and wine," how could Jin Fengju be in the mood to drink wine with his brother-in-law, ah. He still had a lot to do, he had to find a secluded place to speak to Yang Ming. No matter what, he must succeed tonight. Otherwise, he would really be at the end of his rope.

"I, too, have some important matters, ah, brother," Prince Rong held on Jin Fengju's hand did not loosen. "Brother-in-law, I beg you to please come, ba. Otherwise, your older sister will really eat me alive. It's been a few days since she had started ignoring me. Aih, it is also my fault, that day… I accidentally… in short, I must speak with you about something. You must first help me placate her a little."

Jin Fengju frowned, "Brother-in-law, it is not my intention to say anything, but no matter what, you are still a prince. Although my sister is a princess consort, she cannot go against you. Back at the estate, she properly studied the Three Obediences and Four Virtues. You listen to me, just ignore her. After leaving her out cold for a few days, do you fear that she won't chase you back? It's all your fault for spoiling her. This is the result of you overindulging her. That's right, you must never let my sister know what I'd just said, otherwise she would beat me to death."

Prince Rong, who had been on the verge of jumping off a building from sheer nerves, suddenly laughed. He gritted his teeth and said, "So, you also understand just how powerful she is, yet you still dare to say all those things so confidently."

"You and I are different," Jin Fengju said with one raised hand. "I am her younger brother, and as the saying goes, an elder sister is like a mother while an elder brother is like a father. How dare I offend her, ah? You are different, you are her husband. It is only natural for the wife to follow her husband once she has married out of the family. Listen to me, Brother-in-law. No matter how uneasy you feel, you must endure for another two days. Once the messy business on my side has been untangled, I shall come to find you. When the time comes, no matter the outcome, I shall take responsibility and help you. How about it?"

Jin Fengju even patted his chest confidently, never expecting this careless advice would result in something that would turn his guts green from regret each time he thought back to it. By then, it was already too late.

Placated by his promise, Prince Rong finally left. Freed from his brother-in-law, Jin Fengju hurried to the appointed place to meet with Yang Ming. Jin Ming was already there with a bag in hand. Inside the bag was a selection of a few ghostly costumes for their important mission.

"How about this one? Black and white clothing is often associated with death."

Inside the nameless inn, Jin Ming held out the set of black and white clothing for inspection. Before anyone could comment, Jin Fengju was already shaking his head, "No, that one is not frightening enough, something else."

"Then, how about this one? It is a hanging ghost costume, complete with a long tongue. This is the scariest yet." Jin Ming held up a set of creepy-looking white changpao complete with a red strip of cloth that formed the 'tongue'.

Jing Fengju nodded, "Good, this one."

"Master, you don't think this one is too scary looking?" Yang Ming held up the hanging ghost outfit with some hesitation.

"Do you think you should be worried about frightening her or not frightening her?" Jin Fengju asked in an ominous tone.

"This subordinate understands. Tonight, this subordinate will… that is… will strive for success," Yang Ming half stuttered as he accepted the order with cupped fists. He eyed the costume in his hand, thinking: Isn't the madam just a woman? If even this can't intimidate you, I shall admit defeat.

"Master, is it this servant's imagination or… somehow, this lowly one gets the feeling that Imperial Guard Yang seems a little… not confident," said Jin Ming as he watched Yang Ming strutting away from them.

"If it were you, would you be confident? Don't forget, those six snakes of yours have already been wiped out," Jin Fengju rolled his eyes. Was Yang Ming the only one not confident? Even he, a person who had no faith in either God or Buddha, was already quietly praying for heaven's blessings.

"As the wind rustles over the cold water, the hero steps forward to never return," Jin Ming murmured, this line from some famous predecessor suddenly streaking through his mind. His surroundings appeared bleak.

"If you dare to spout more nonsense with your crow's beak, you shall go ahead and be the ghost," Jin Fengju angrily kicked at Jin Ming's bottom. "When the time comes, I'll let Yu Jie and Aunt Yu cook you for dinner."

Jin Ming shrank his head, not daring to say anything else. He had no idea whether Yu Jie and Aunt Yu would be so cruel as to eat him, but he knew that he must not take up this playing ghost mission. Even if he were to succeed, Second Madam Ning would definitely want his life.

After Yang Ming left, Jin Fengju and Jin Ming also returned to the residence immediately. They were about to set out for Night Breeze Pavilion when they heard the sounds of children laughing. After looking around, they found Jin Zhenxuan, Jin Xiuzhen, Jin Xiuru and Jin Zhenyi walking this way. He stopped and frowned at them, "Why are you not at school? Why are you walking around outside?"

When the children saw him, they all stood in line properly. As the eldest, Jin Zhenyi saluted his father respectfully and said, "To answer Father, it is close to noon. The teacher has some business at home and bade us to return early, stating that there will be no afternoon classes either. We just came from Old Ancestor's place, Elder Madam and Second Madam are also present. The family has just received a letter from Aunt Yanfang, saying that the family will return to the Capital soon. When the time comes, our house will be very lively again. Us brothers and sisters are very happy and could not help but be a little presumptuous."

"Oh? Yanfang will be returning?" Jin Fengju nodded, before saying mildly, "go then." He was about to continue on his journey, but Jin Zhenxuan and Jin Xiuzhen stayed in place, refusing to move. The two children had flattened their mouths, looking like they had something to say, but dared not speak their minds.

"What is it? Has someone bullied you two?" Jin Fengju still loved his children, and seeing how wronged they looked, he knelt and reached out to hug them. Unexpectedly, Jin Xiuzhen burst out with a sudden 'waah!' and fell, crying at his shoulder. Through loud sobs, she cried, "Father doesn't like Xiuzhen or Little Brother anymore. It's been so many days but Father did not come and see us. Our classmates all say that because Mother did wrong and angered Father, making Father hate us. They say that we will be abandoned children in the future, they all bullied us… wuwuwu… Father… Xiuzhen is scared. Please don't abandon Xiuzhen and Little Brother. Mother's sin… Ziuzhen will make Mother acknowledge her mistakes to Father, wuwuwu…"

Jin Fengju's heart went sore in an instant. When he looked over at Jin Zhenxuan with his shoulders shaking, but still trying not to cry, he sighed. He patted the two children's shoulders and said, "Don't listen to those people's nonsense. Father did not abandon Xiuzhen or Zhenxuan. These days, too many things happened at the same time and things became complicated. How about this, once Father's job is done, I'll come and see Zhenxuan and Xiuzhen, alright? Father likes the two of you most."

"Truly?" Jin Xiuzhen raised a pair of large dewy eyes and smiled through her tears, "Father must keep your promise. Xiuzhen and Little Brother will wait for Father obediently."

"Alright," Jin Fengju smiled, kissing the two children on the cheeks, before sending them off to play. Once the children had left, they continued their way towards Night Breeze Pavilion.

"Young Master and Young Miss are really attached to Master," Jin Ming commented with a smile as he trotted along behind Jin Fengju.

Jin Fengju's answer was an indifferent, "It is true that they missed me. However, for them to suddenly cry before me like this, it is impossible for Wanying's hand to be absent. Could this kind of bullying happen in the estate school within the dukedom? It has only been a few days since I had last visited Clear Soft Pavilion, but the Zhenxuan and Xiuzhen were being bullied? If that is so, just how much suffering Feng'er and Jiao'er endured on a daily basis? Jin Ming, tomorrow, send someone to visit the teachers at the school, find out what you can about this matter. If the atmosphere is as bad as the children reported, proper measures must be taken."

Jin Ming quickly acquiescent. He continued to trot after Jin Fengju, as they rounded a corner, he hastily said, "Master, this is not the way to Night Breeze Pavilion."

Jin Fengju smiled, "I know, I am heading towards Health & Longevity Court. I wish to ask after Yanfang."

Jin Yanfang was Second Old Master Jin Shi's daughter. Back then, she married the son of the Minister of Rites who was later transferred to become a high official at the frontier. However, after only two years, someone sent a memorial to the emperor, reporting on corruption, broken laws and extravagant living. Naturally, the emperor was very dissatisfied and immediately ordered his return.

However, since this person could still be regarded as fairly honest, it was possible that he was just momentarily confused and that his sudden wanton behaviour could be attributed to the illusion of the emperor being far away, and thus he became greedy. Seeing that his sins were not really that heavy, it was finally decided that he should return to the Capital as an official. Jin Fengju knew all of that, but had not expected them to come to the Capital so soon.

Even before he reached Health & Longevity Court, Jin Fengju saw his elder brother Jin Pengzhan walking towards him. At the sight of his brother, Jin Pengzhan smiled and said, "I was just looking for you. Come, we should go and see Father as soon as possible. It's about the Feng Family's return to the Capital. Father has some questions for you."

Jin Fengju smiled and said, "What questions could he have? The emperor hates corruption and perversion of the law. I believe when they return to the Capital, he would not be granted any good official position. Just some Third or Fourth Rank post so that they could still be of some use to the country." Suddenly, he said, "Brother, you are about to depart for the Yangzhou post?"

Jin Pengzhan smiled and said, "That's right. Thanks to His Majesty's grace, seeing as I shall be posted there for a few years, I was allowed four months' leave. Now that my leave is over, it is time for me to depart. This time, I wish to keep the two children and your sister-in-law in the Capital. That place is not easy to deal with, therefore, I do not wish them to suffer."

Jin Fengju smiled and said, "With Sister-in-law's character, would she be willing to listen to you? Just what kind of place is Jiangnan? It is a bustling place filled with singing and dancing, how could she be at ease?"

Jin Pengzhan also laughed and smiled, shaking his head as he said, "Little Brother is the one who does not understand a woman's heart. Though she could not be at ease with me away, she could not bear to leave the children alone even more. If she had to choose between her husband and children, she would pick the children. Moreover, it's not like she does not know me. No matter how bewitching the music and dancing at the South Yangtze River, I will be there as an official, not looking for romance."

Hearing this, Jin Fengju withdrew his smile and said sternly, "Brother's words are clear. I had feared that you might be stunned by the sudden favour and allow yourself to become muddled. Seeing that Brother knows this well, this little brother feels at ease. There is no need for me to repeat any warnings. As a Jiangnan official, you must be cautious, and beware of greed. Brother, just think, though we cannot be said to be the richest family in the world, we are still a wealthy family. Should you wish for more money, just speak to me or Brother Feng. You must never covet the salt merchants' money. Though the profits are good, it could take your life any time."

Jin Pengzhan smiled and said, "Rest your worries, brother. I have no reason to be muddled by this. What's more, what was the reason for your shocking actions at Yangzhou earlier? I already have a recent past as an example. How could I not know the cost and benefits of such actions? No need to worry, no need to worry."

The two brothers chatted and laughed together as they entered Jin Yu's study. Father and sons spoke for close to an hour before Jin Fengju was finally able to escape. He headed straight for Health & Longevity Court.

There, he saw Madam Jiang, Madam Fang, Jin Pengzhan's wife, Liu'shi as well as his various other wives and concubines all waiting for him. Even Fu Qiuning was there. He laughed and said, "Why is it so lively here? It is as though everyone had received an invitation for an event."

When the Old Madam saw her favourite grandson, she became even more elated. She quickly pulled him down to sit beside her and, with a titter, said, "You do not know yet? Your little sister is about to come home. Aih, back then when I matched her with that person, I intended to have her live near me so that she may come and visit often. That way, she would still have the care of her maternal family. Who would have thought that in less than a year of marriage, she would suddenly be sent so far away? It had been two years since I have last seen her. Now that she is returning, no matter what, I must have her stay here longer."

Jin Fengju laughed and said, "Of course, no wonder Old Ancestor is so happy. Sister Yanfang has not been back for a long time." Suddenly, he turned to Fu Qiuning, "Surely you must have already forgotten what she looks like? I believe you barely saw her more than a few times that day."

Fu Qiuning [1a] stared at Jin Fengju for a moment, stunned by the sheer thickness of his face and audacity. [2a] She blinked slowly as she tried to sort out the best way to answer this question. She must have looked like a fool as the silence stretched to uncomfortable beats.

[1a] Finally, she said, "Indeed, I have no recollection of what Sister Yanfang looks like. [2b]"

The Old Madam laughed heartily into the tense atmosphere and jovially said, "Well, well, this is an excellent opportunity for you two to get acquainted. Speaking of which, you have yet to meet the Princess Consort, haven't you? That is Fengju's blood sister, therefore, it makes sense for you to greet her in person. Have Fengju arrange a time and lead you to the palace for a visit.

The moment the words left Old Madam Jin's mouth, Madam Jiang's face became uncomfortable. If Fu Qiuning really visited Princess Consort Rong, that would truly solidify her position above Jiang Wanying. A visit to the palace was equivalent to being officially recognised by the family, ah.

She was about to say something when Fu Qiuning said, "Surely there is no urgency? Lord Husband is busy with many things. This humble woman also has the twins to take care of. Moreover, with Sister Yanfang returning soon, surely this is not a good time to trouble anyone?"

Madam Jiang privately breathed a sigh of relief. She gave Fu Qiuning a complicated look, thinking: Looks like this woman still knows when to advance and retreat. Aih, it would appear that Fengju is right. This Fu Qiuning could be regarded as virtuous. Unfortunately, if your surname is not Jiang, I can never be pleased with your existence.

Fu Qiuning had no idea what Madam Jiang was thinking. The two primary feelings in her heart were [3a] 'fear' and 'annoyance'. Fear, because who knew just what this old vixen wanted to achieve? After having failed to move her from Night Breeze Pavilion, the next order of business was to enter the palace for… what? Fu Qiuning had no idea, but her automatic reflex then was to do the exact opposite of whatever that manipulative old woman wanted to achieve.

[1] In fact, let's leave this place right now.

She stood up, and… of course, Jin Fengju also stood up. [1c] The man fairly leapt to his feet to hurriedly say, "If that's the case, I shall send Qiuning back. I still have something I wish to talk to Qiuning about."

As the two of them saluted the Old Madam, [1c] Fu Qiuning caught the meaningful smiles that flashed between grandmother and grandson. She nearly rolled her eyes, especially when the Old Madam smiled lovingly at her precious grandson and said, "Go, ba, go, ba. That's right, I hear that Wanying has not been well these past two days. You should find some time to pay a visit to Clear Soft Pavilion. No matter how busy you are, you should take care of your couple's relationship."

Could you be more obvious?

[3b] As if on cue, Jin Fengju cast a subtle glance at Madam Jiang, who was standing in place with an expressionless face. As a consumer of dramatic palace intrigue TV programmes, it was more than obvious that Madam Jiang must have pleaded with the Old Madam to speak some words for Jiang Wanying. [3c]

Fu Qiuning resolved to help her [3c], "You should go to Clear Soft Pavilion. You should have no business on my side."

[1d] Jin Fengju mentally cursed the fact that he did not act fast enough to pull Fu Qiuning out of the room before she blurted this out. How was he going to answer her without looking like an uncaring husband before all the ladies in the room?

[1d] Then again, did he care if he looked like an uncaring husband? Sneering slightly, he said, "Just because she said that she is sick, you believe her? When did you become so muddled? It's barely been 10 days, what's the rush? Speaking of which, aren't you in a hurry to return to Night Breeze Pavilion? Allow me to escort you."

[1d] Then, short of bodily picking her up and carrying her out, he rushed them out of Health & Longevity Court with the eyes of the other madams upon them.

[1d] When Fu Qiuning was finally allowed to walk without being hustled, she continued, "Whether it is the truth or not, it is best to go and appease her. [3d] Night Breeze Pavilion exists at her leisure, and were she to turn her anger at me, I would be the one who takes a loss [2c]."

At this, Jin Fengju beamed and said, "I know you are a benevolent person, however, this is not the time to show such kindness. Be at ease, I have my ways. You say that you exist at her leisure? This matter is easily resolved. I have a few businesses under my name and many bestowments from the emperor. If I were to allocate some to you, you shall live the rest of your comfortably. There is only one condition, how about it? So long as you move out of Night Breeze Pavilion, I shall give them to you."

Fu Qiuning said nothing, [3e] merely turning and walking away as though Jin Fengju did not exist. Defeated, Jin Fengju chased after her helplessly, saying, "Alright, alright, I know that Second Madam Ning is not someone who could be moved by money, status or power. Enough, pretend I never say anything."

Indeed, [1e] she was doing her best to forget about everything, but… how could she? Considering the place she was living in and how loved and favoured that person had been…

[1e] "Qiuning, ah, what are you thinking?"

[1e] She must have been silent too long. Since he asked, she decided to continue her pondering out loud. "I am thinking about my predecessor."

[1e] "Predecessor?" Jin Fengju smiled brilliantly, "How could Wanying be considered your predecessor? I married you in first, so, of course…"

"I am thinking of the woman who lived at Night Breeze Pavilion before me. I heard that she died there. Do you know the details behind her death?"

Jin Fengju's smile froze on his face. Privately, he howled: Finally! It is finally here! [1e] Good job spreading the strategic rumours, Jin Ming! My heavens, ah. I can finally see a glimmer of fear in Qiuning's eyes.

Doing his best to remain calm, he said, "Why the sudden question? Truth be told, I am not entirely certain of the details, only that the Concubine was one that grandfather cherished a lot. However, because she was found to have relationships with another man, she was executed."

Fu Qiuning [3f] paused, "I see, [1f] I supposed that the Old Marquis' love, which had been so deep and so profound as to provide such an exquisite courtyard with so many gorgeous pieces of jewellery… did you know? We found an exquisite gold hairpin one day, overlooked by the people who swept the place. It must have been one of the lesser hairpins that were abandoned by the concubine. Yes, the poor Old Marquis must have been so devastated when he had her executed…"

[1f] "Qiuning…" For some reason, although Fu Qiuning was saying all the right things, it struck something… wrong, within his heart.

"…that ungrateful woman must have been drowned, yes? Isn't that the standard method of killing unfaithful women? Was it done in the large pond in the back?"

Jin Fengju quickly shook his head, "No, no, not that pond. There's a large pond in the garden and she was drowned there. Don't worry, after drowning, her body was taken out. Grandfather even had someone give her a proper burial with a coffin. Ahem, why are you asking about this?"

[1f] "… your grandfather is truly benevolent and kind, to even grant an adulterous woman a coffin and a decent burial after executing her," said Fu Qiuning with a straight face. "It's nothing, she had been on my mind recently. Is death without bleeding better, I wonder…"

On Jin Fengju's side, he was growing more and more anxious. According to the script, Fu Qiuning was supposed to be getting anxious, nearly throwing herself into his bosom from fear. That way, the Young Marquis could gently comfort her and allow him to slowly explain what happened the night before and feed her a little vinegar to prime her for Yang Ming's performance that night.

Why is she not cooperating, ah?!

Unfortunately, though Fu Qiuning appeared pensive and thoughtful, there was no sign of fear at all. At Night Breeze Pavilion, he found Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao in the study. Seeing them, he thought of Jin Zhenxuan and gave the two children the same advice.

That day, he had lunch at Night Breeze Pavilion and, later, after giving some pretext or other, 'left' the place. In truth, he went to meet with Yang Ming just outside the residence, only returning to Night Breeze Pavilion when night fell to complete their mission.

This time, in order to assist Yang Ming and to observe Fu Qiuning's reaction more closely, Jin Fengju did not hide behind a large tree, but flattened himself on the roof of the residence where he could observe everything more closely.

As for Yang Ming, since the Young Marquis had no intention of giving up the 'mission', Yang Ming was [1g] too ashamed to run away without at least doing his best. Therefore, he could only brace himself, [1g] put on the terrible costume and 'float' onto a tree branch. The branch he had balanced himself on was very flexible, making his figure look like it was bobbing up and down like a spectre.