11

Posted on December 22, 2020 by PCP Translations

Matron Zhao continuously cried out in her heart. Her luck was truly awful today, being ordered back and forth by people.

She hurried over to the Rongan Hall and reported the situation. As expected, the old madam had her ask the madam to go over, but wasn't going to show up herself. Matron Zhao had long expected this response, but without her mistress giving the order, she as the servant wouldn't dare make the decision. She thus went to ask Shen Yi Yao over.

Before long, Shen Yi Yao arrived.

"Second sis-in-law, why are you sitting in such a place? I was delayed earlier, please forgive me."

"You also know this place isn't fit for sitting? Then why did you lock Ah Yan in here?"

Shen Yi Yao was a little frozen. She looked at Second Madam Shen's angry expression as well as Yan Yan who was in her arms.

"I….."

This was the small worship hall?

Shen Yi Yao had never been to the small worship hall before. She merely heard that the Weiyuan Marquis Estate punished the household sons who had done wrong by locking them up in here.

She looked around in a panic. The walls were blackened and there were countless cobwebs in the corners. The sunlight shining into the room allowed her to clearly see the air was permeated with dust…..

Her face immediately turned pale and she finally understood why her sister-in-law was enraged, and also why Ah Yan never gave her a glance after she arrived.

"See for yourself what sort of place this is. Just what did Ah Yan do wrong? Why did you have to lock her up in such a place? Weren't you the one who gave birth to her? You couldn't have locked your own daughter up anywhere else, and had to choose such a derelict place?!"

Shen Yi Yao's eyes turned red as she looked in panic at her sister-in-law and then at her daughter, her lips twitching. "I, I….."

Seeing Shen Yi Yao's helpless appearance, Second Madam Shen's anger suddenly subsided quite a bit. She let out a sigh, "Little sis, what am I going to do with you?"

Shen Yi Yao was the Zhenguo Madam's daughter. When Second Madam Shen had married into the Shen household, Shen Yi Yao was only nine years old. Second Madam Shen could be said to have watched her grow up. Therefore, seeing Shen Yi Yao in such a state, Second Madam Shen understood that she truly didn't know, and a feeling of helplessness arose.

"Second sis-in-law, I didn't know it was like this…" She explained in panic. "Ah Yan, don't blame mom, ok? Mom really didn't know this place was like this…."

"What's the use of your servants then? Didn't they tell you what this place was like?" Speaking to this point, Second Madam Shen's sharp gaze swept over Fang Cao and Fang Cui, who had come with Shen Yi Yao.

Having managed the Zhenguo Duke Estate for so many years, she knew all the shenanigans servants got into! Sometimes the master would be unaware since there were many things in the estate, but how could the servants be unaware? If the master was unaware, it was only because the servants didn't want them to know about it.

The two of them fell to their knees with a thud. "Madam, us servants truly didn't know what this place was like….."

"Second sis-in-law, these two have served by my side for a long time. They definitely didn't know it was like this…."

"Then what have you been up to? Your daughter was locked up and you never came to take a look?"

Shen Yi Yao's face was completely red. "Ah Mo was sick, I….."

"Also, what about Ah Yan's personal maids and grannies? Didn't they come take a look to see how their own miss was doing?"

As expected of Second Madam Shen. Her words easily pointed out the key points of the matter. Mei Xiang and Mei Xue who had been waiting a long time by the side walked out and knelt on the spot.

"Aunt, us servants had come before, but there are still a set of doors in front of the small worship hall. Those doors had been locked by someone and the key was taken away. The two of us servants looked all over for help. We also weren't able to get into the madam's Jinse Pavilion. We've tried sending in word, saying that we wanted to see how the miss was doing, but were blocked every time."

Mei Xiang spoke ambiguously, and there wasn't a hint of blaming the master. But Second Madam Shen was able to hear some clues. However, since it was her younger sis-in-law's estate matters, it wasn't convenient for her to say anything about it. Being overly fussy would only draw dislike, and she also had to consider her younger sis-in-law's dignity in front of others.

Her complicated gaze fell upon Shen Yi Yao, who looked apprehensive yet didn't seem to have noticed the hidden meaning behind those words. Her voice grew gentler: "Ah Mo got sick again? Is he recovered?"

Seeing Second Madam Shen change the subject and no longer pursue the matter, not only did Shen Yi Yao let out a breath, the maids and grannies all did the same.

"Mo'er had a fever these past few days, and only just got better."

Second Madam Shen's brows furrowed and she didn't say anything. She knew this nephew of hers had always been frail. She was just about to ask to see him when Yan Yan in her arms grabbed her clothes.

"Second aunt, Ah Mo got a fever because he fell into water."

"Fell into water?"

Yan Yan nodded and said: "Ah Yan was also locked up due to little bro's matter. That day Yan Hong pushed Ah Mo into the water, and none of the maids and grannies there bothered to help and merely watched the show. I was angry at seeing this after getting there and kicked them all into the water….."

"Ah Yan….." Shen Yi Yao furrowed her brows and interrupted Yan Yan. "Mom has told you many times, Hong'er didn't push Mo'er on purpose. It was just an accident between naughty children. How can you speak this way about your own brother…."

Seeing Shen Yi Yao still explaining for others, a rush of anger flared up in Yan Yan's chest. "My only brother is Ah Mo. How is someone from a concubine worthy to be my brother? It's your own matter if you are willing to be sisters with a concubine. I am the true-blooded miss of this household, and I don't have a mistress-born brother who would push my little bro into the water!"

Concubine Pei had heard about the matter and hurried over, deeply afraid something would happen outside of her control. Unexpectedly, the first words she heard after arriving were Yan Yan's. She instinctively covered her face and came in crying.

"Third miss, how can you say that? Even if Hong'er isn't born from the principal wife, he's still the marquis's son. Also, how can the madam stand it if you speak of her this way?"

Shen Yi Yao was both angry and panicked, scolding: "Ah Yan, why is your mouth so vile? Who taught you to speak so maliciously?"

"What did Ah Yan say that was wrong? As the true-blooded miss of the Weiyuan Marquis and the grandchild of the Zhenguo Duke Estate, can she be discussed on the same level as someone from a concubine?" Second Madam Shen's tone held some contempt.

She was raised in a major household and was also born of the principal line. Before she was married, she had seen her own mom's sullenness at having to deal with those concubines and their children. Therefore, she hated those people to the extreme. In her eyes, those people were shameful things filled with dirty thoughts. They were filled with wicked tricks and methods, and none of them were any good.

This was like how cats and mice were natural enemies. Concubines and principal wives were the same. Every principal wife disdained these vixen concubines. Especially since Concubine Pei used her tears as a cover-up to incite conflict the moment she entered, making Second Madam Shen truly disgusted. Therefore, her words were merciless.

"Second sis-in-law…."

Shen Yi Yao looked at the hysterically crying Concubine Pei on one side, then at the stern-faced Second Madam Shen, and also didn't know what she should do. In the end, she could only glare at Yan Yan who had caused this situation.

Yan Yan felt heartache and couldn't help but tighten her grip. Second Madam Shen gave Shen Yi Yao a glance and her brows furrowed even tighter. She had always known her younger sis-in-law was simpleminded, but never expected her to be muddled to this extent. She actually started blaming her daughter without thinking things through.

"Just how did Ah Mo fall into the water? In such a large estate, no one bothered about it?"

Shen Yi Yao stammered: "Second sis-in-law, we've already said it was an accident due to children being naughty. Don't listen to Ah Yan's nonsense…."

Second Madam Shen felt Yan Yan's small figure in her arms tremble and suddenly the thought of no longer wanting to remain here sprung up. She handed Yan Yan over to one of the grannies and stood up.

"I'm going back first; people are waiting back home." She spoke with a dull tone, and then called Matron Zhao over. Her lips curled, her smile was a little cold. "This madam will head back first, so I won't stop by the old madam's place. I will report things to my in-laws upon my return. I feel your Weiyuan Marquis Estate owes our Zhenguo Duke Estate an explanation."

"Second sis-in-law…."

Second Madam Shen didn't respond to Shen Yi Yao.

Matron Zhao smiled rigidly: "What does Second Madam Shen mean?"

"Ah Mo is the estate's heir, and the future successor of the marquis title. He fell into the water mysteriously, and it even implicated my poor niece into being locked up?" Second Madam Shen sneered coldly and said: "Don't think everyone is a fool. At least, those at the Zhenguo Duke Estate are not fools."

After speaking, she took her people and left majestically.

Ah Yan was carried by the granny the entire way out of the Weiyuan Marquis Estate and got onto Second Madam Shen's carriage.

Second Madam Shen saw her dejected expression and couldn't help but stroke her head comfortingly. But since she wasn't clear on the details of the matter, she also didn't know what she should say.

Before they arrived at the Zhenguo Duke Estate, Yan Yan fell asleep. She had probably been holding on for some time, and now that she knew she was safe, her weariness caught up to her.

Second Madam Shen ordered for Yan Yan to be sent to the Suxin1 Chambers where she usually lived, before going to the Ninghui2 Hall.

The Zhenguo Duke was there as well. Second Madam Shen saluted and the Zhenguo Madam urgently asked: "Where's my little Ah Yan?"

The Zhenguo Duke was able to tell his daughter-in-law's expression was a little off and patted his old partner's hand comfortingly.

Second Madam Shen sat down and recounted all that had happened on her trip, including some of the hints she had seen and her own conjectures.

After the Zhenguo Madam finished listening, she turned pale with fright and said: "How is that possible? Yao'er wouldn't be that muddleheaded!"

Second Madam Shen's expression was complicated and she consoled: "Mom, don't worry. It could also be your daughter-in-law overthinking things. This matter hasn't been investigated yet after all."

The Zhenguo Duke stood listening on the side. At this time, he spoke: "Yao'er had quite a few servants accompanying her as part of her dowry when she was married back then. Just find a few of those personal servants and bring them back for questioning."

He instructed Uncle Peng, who was the steward of the household, to find those maids and bring them over for questioning. He also specifically asked for Shen Yi Yao to be kept in the dark on this matter.

On matters such as this, it was fine if they got to the bottom of things. But prior to that, it wouldn't be good for Shen Yi Yao to know her own dad was interfering in her private affairs. It would naturally make her feel uncomfortable. Shen Yi Yao was a married woman after all. The Zhenguo Duke Estate always did things cautiously, and this time was no exception.

Uncle Peng was extremely adept at handling things and soon reported back to the Zhenguo Duke.

Of course, this wasn't just due to his efficiency. It was also because this matter was easy to investigate. Uncle Peng was initially prepared to have the families of those servants call their children back from the Weiyuan Marquis Estate to avoid alerting others. Unexpectedly, when he called those people over he found out that those serving by Shen Yi Yao's side were all no longer there.

Shen Yi Yao's dowry back then was exceedingly plentiful. Just the servants that came with her alone numbered four to five households. Some managed things at the dowry homestead while others became Shen Yi Yao's personal servants. Those who could serve by the madam's side were naturally all maids and grannies. Back then, the Zhenguo Madam had considered everything thoroughly. There had been maids of all ages, and even Shen Yi Yao's own wet nurse had been included. All their contracts were given to Shen Yi Yao for safekeeping.

As of today, it was said that wet nurse had left to her hometown two years ago for retirement. The older maids had all been married off. Some of the husbands came from Shen Yi Yao's dowry, and most of the rest were all children from the Weiyuan Marquis Estate. Furthermore, their husbands were all pretty well off and it was said they lived quite well after getting married.

As for the younger ones, some were sold off after making mistakes and others had been arranged off to who knows where. This was to say that Shen Yi Yao's personal servants didn't include a single one who had come with her back then.

At this time, the Zhenguo Duke, madam and Second Madam Shen were all frozen, their hearts sinking.

None of them were fools. Based on the situation, and combining it with this time's matter, it seems many things had happened in the dark without their knowledge.

"Lord Duke, because you had ordered not to alert the miss's side, this subordinate didn't investigate things thoroughly. What do you think…."

The Zhenguo Duke didn't speak, his expression sunken as he waved for Uncle Peng to take his leave.

Ever fragrant.

Gathered sunlight.

12

Posted on December 23, 2020 by PCP Translations

The hall was scarily silent. The maids on the side all shrunk their necks in without daring to speak. At this time, a maid from outside reported that Miss Yan had woken up.

The Zhenguo Madam asked about her. The maid reported that the miss was in good spirits and that she had eaten. Only then did the Zhenguo Duke speak and ask for Miss Yan to be brought to the Ninghui Hall.

When the maid came to report that her grandfather asked her to go to the Ninghui Hall, Yan Yan was in the middle of eating.

The Zhenguo Duke Estate servants had excellent etiquette, and knowing that Miss Yan was cherished by the duke and the madam, they naturally served her attentively.

The moment Yan Yan opened her eyes, a maid had carefully asked if she wanted to get up. Warm water and snacks were already fully prepared. Yan Yan had come to the Zhenguo Duke Estate several times when she was younger, and had even stayed for extended periods of time. Therefore, she treated this place as her own home, and had the maids serve her in taking a bath and changing her clothes before eating a few things.

The maid came to report as she was half full, and Yan Yan didn't delay. She let the servants clean her hands and rinse her mouth, put on a new set of clothes before heading over to the Ninghui Hall.

Yan Yan felt refreshed after her bath and in her new clothes. Walking on the paths of the Zhenguo Duke Estate, she finally felt free of that stifling Weiyuan Marquis Estate, and felt like she was born again.

Yan Yan had some idea why her grandfather called her over. Nothing had been revealed back at the Weiyuan Marquis Estate, but her second aunt was intelligent and her grandparents loved both herself and her mom. They would definitely have done some investigating, and at this time probably intended to ask her about the details.

Yan Yan decided to speak honestly. From when she was six or seven, her mom gradually brought her back to the Zhenguo Duke Estate less and less. Especially in recent years when her dad was stationed at the border. She only returned once during New Year's.

Yan Yan definitely didn't believe there wasn't someone causing mischief behind the scenes. Why didn't they want her mom to return home? Wasn't it because they were afraid the Zhenguo Duke Estate would see some signs, making it difficult to control her mom?

Of course, Yan Yan felt the shadow of her dad Yan Ting behind the scenes. Every time she thought of this, her heart would tremble incessantly. This was also why she had never made a fuss despite having these thoughts in the past. If she truly made a fuss, her opponent was someone who should be her most intimate person.

Whether this list of "most intimate people" included her mom, she didn't dare think about…..

Lost in her thoughts, Yan Yan arrived at the Ninghui Hall.

The Zhenguo Madam's many matrons and senior maids had long since been waiting outside the doors. Seeing Yan Yan arrive, they crowded over and intimately called out to her, asking how she was doing and saying how she's grown so big.

The one who said she's grown was Matron Xu. She was an old servant of Yan Yan's grandmother, and had often held Yan Yan when she was young.

Hearing the commotion outside, the Zhenguo Madam called from inside: "Come in, Ah Yan. Hurry and let grandmother take a good look at you."

Yan Yan heard the summons and ran into the hall like a baby swallow returning to its nest. She ran straight up to the Zhenguo Madam who was sitting on the arhat chair1 up above.

The Zhenguo Madam Zhou-shi's head of snow-white hair was done up tidily into a bun at the back of her head. It was held in place by an emerald inlaid gold ruyi-shaped hairpin. She wore a set of golden yellow colored robes embroidered with phoenix eye patterns. Her face was oblong-shaped, her features kind. Her eyes were filled with benevolence as she looked at her tenderly.

"Grandmother…."

"My little Ah Yan, you've suffered….."

The two of them embraced warmly for a while. Yan Yan finally rubbed the tears from her eyes and left the Zhenguo Madam's arms before saluting both the Zhenguo Duke and Second Madam Shen.

"Grandfather, second aunt."

The Zhenguo Madam pulled Yan Yan to sit beside her. The people chatted casually for a bit before getting to the main topic.

This was the first time Yan Yan revealed everything that had been hidden in her heart. She knew the people present all truly cherished her, and therefore didn't feel ashamed.

It had to be said that Concubine Pei and Old Madam Yan's methods were extremely good.

For example, Old Madam Yan seemed to cherish Shen Yi Yao and even Yan Yan and Yan Mo extremely on the surface. If she had something good on hand, she would first offer it to the three of them. Whenever she tried something tasty, she would have the kitchen make three more portions and send it over. Furthermore, the household allowance given to the three of them were the highest level, exceeding others by quite a bit.

Even during the paying of respects at the Rongan Hall, Shen Yi Yao always sat closest to Old Madam Yan. As for Yan Yan and Yan Mo, they sat on the arhat bed with Old Madam Yan. Only when Yan Mo wasn't present did Yan Hong get a turn. She gave the three of them the biggest benefits and the best treatment. Her actions on the surface were done extremely well.

As for Concubine Pei, she was always respectful towards them whether in person or in front of others, always observing proper etiquette. There were no faults to pick out in her behavior. After being granted authority over the household, she always made sure to ask Shen Yi Yao's opinion on things. Only after Shen Yi Yao herself felt it was bothersome did she stop doing so.

Things probably could have continued developing this way. As mentioned before, no one was a fool in this world. Clues could be seen from the mistress's attitude, and the servants' livelihood all depended on her. No one understood clearer than they did.

Distance determined a horse's stamina, and time determined a person's heart. This saying was quite apt. Once an act went on for long enough, or once someone was tricked for long enough, there would naturally be some impatience or some complacency. Although Concubine Pei and Old Madam Yan hadn't quite reached this stage, they weren't far from it.

Therefore, the intelligent Yan Yan slowly started to see some clues. Perhaps it was from seeing Concubine Pei switch out the people by Shen Yi Yao and Yan Mo's side one by one, or perhaps it was due to something else….when considered individually, these were minor things. But nothing could withstand the accumulation over a long period of time. Gradually, Yan Yan grew guarded against the two of them.

Unfortunately she was still young and powerless. Furthermore, Concubine Pei would seamlessly incite things via the few maids she had placed by Shen Yi Yao's side. Every time Yan Yan tried to resist, she would be suppressed. Shen Yi Yao even gradually felt her own daughter was too disobedient and didn't have the makings of a proper lady. She started managing her more and more strictly.

The scariest thing in this world isn't killing with real weapons. It is to slowly erode someone's willpower and change their way of thinking, until in the end they became a completely different person.

As Yan Yan spoke, she involuntarily started crying, to the extent where she couldn't speak through her sobs.

"…Ah Yan sometimes wonders if my way of thinking is too despicable, thinking the worst of others. But I truly couldn't convince myself that they mean well…."

The Zhenguo Madam held her in her arms. This old woman who had been firm and unyielding her entire life was also crying, mumbling about sin repeatedly.

Yan Yan was still young and she didn't understand how her train of thought came about. However, those listening were able to tell just what sort of trials she had endured for such a young, ten year old girl to have such thoughts. Not only did she suspect her own grandmother, but her own dad as well….

No one would believe Yan Ting didn't have anything to do with it.

The Zhenguo Duke's face was frighteningly dark. As the commander-in-chief who had led troops for several decades before finally retiring to become an official, he would become extremely terrifying when angered.

"I had said back then that this Yan Ting wasn't a good match. What did you say back then? Who persuaded me to agree to this marriage?" The Zhenguo Duke gripped the table tightly.

The Zhenguo Madam wiped her tears and was completely heartbroken.

"How was I supposed to know it would turn out this way? Yao'er stubbornly insisted on marrying him and cried for so many days. As her mom, my heart was truly in a lot of pain. Weren't you the same way back then? We only have this one daughter, and merely wanted the best for her and for her to be happy. Who knew things would turn out this way!?"

This matter had to do with a "case" back then.

Initially, the Zhenguo Duke was not too satisfied with this Yan Ting as his son-in-law.

First of all, Yan Ting's family background wasn't worthy of Shen Yi Yao. Secondly, prior to Yan Ying marrying Shen Yi Yao, an event occurred that made the Zhenguo Duke extremely uncomfortable.

That year, Shen Yi Yao was of marrying age. Crowds of families within the capital came to the door to propose marriage but the Zhenguo Duke never agreed to any of them. All he wanted was to pick a good match for his daughter.

Unexpectedly, Shen Yi Yao somehow got to know Yan Ting at a banquet hosted by another estate, and it was love at first sight. She said she wanted to marry Yan Ting when she got home. The Shen household's only daughter of that generation was Shen Yi Yao, and she had been pampered since birth. This resulted in her innocent nature. The Zhenguo Duke saw his daughter unabashedly declaring that she wanted to marry a man, and angrily berated her on the spot. But since she was his cherished daughter, he also didn't restrict her in any way.

Afterwards, the Zhenguo Duke sent people to investigate and found out that his daughter had actually met Yan Ting in private several times before. Although the two of them hadn't done anything, it was still harmful to a woman's reputation.

With his daughter crying on one side wanting to get married, the Zhenguo Duke had Yan Ting brought over in secret for questioning.

Yan Ting said it was only because of his deep feelings for Miss Shen that he would secretly meet up with her, and swore that he had never done anything that would harm Miss Shen's virtue. He also said he had long since asked his family to come bring up the matter of marriage.

The Weiyuan Marquis Estate had truly come to the door asking for marriage, but the Zhenguo Duke hadn't agreed. Yet seeing this talented and earnest youngster, the Zhenguo Duke felt peculiar in his heart.

For the sake of marrying Yan Ting, Shen Yi Yao's gentle temperament changed and she made a huge fuss. Not only was her face filled with tears daily, she even went on a hunger strike. In the send, the Zhenguo Duke couldn't overcome Shen Yi Yao's determination and agreed to the marriage. This event had also shaken the capital.

No one expected the ZHenguo Duke household's beloved daughter to be married off to the rundown Weiyuan Marquis Estate's son. Even if that person was the Weiyuan Marquis's heir, no one expected it because he truly wasn't a worthy match.

Because of this, even though Shen Yi Yao married Yan Ting, the Zhenguo Duke had never shown a pleasant expression towards Yan Ting.

After Yan Yan was born, Shen Yi Yao brought her over once every few days. Only after seeing Shen Yi Yao truly seemed to be doing quite well and also because he cherished his granddaughter, along with the Zhenguo Madam's urgings, did the Zhenguo Duke finally look at Yan Ting in a better light.

Shen Yi Yao truly lived very well after marriage. She managed the household right after marrying in. Her in-laws cherished her and her husband pampered her. It was possible to see if a woman was doing well based on her appearance and words. Only then did the Zhenguo Duke's dislike of Yan Ting slowly fade.

Although Yan Ting had taken a concubine within a year of marriage, he had earnestly reported it to the Zhenguo Duke Estate at this time. He claimed it was in order to use the blessing of marriage to drive away his father's illness. Since his own daughter agreed to it, the Zhenguo Duke Estate's people didn't take things to heart.

Which wealthy household didn't have concubines? Yan Ting's attitude had been upright, and the Zhenguo Duke Estate's people didn't overthink things.

But who would have thought that after ten years, things would end up this way?!

Tradicional sofa-like chair.

13

Posted on December 24, 2020 by PCP Translations

Translator's notes:

Happy holidays everyone! I wish you all the best in these difficult times. I've prepared some presents under the tree for you to unwrap tomorrow. Hopefully it'll add some more festive cheer all around.

After pondering for a while, everyone present apart from the young Yan Yan felt things were terrible.

They all couldn't help but make conjectures, and by putting everything together and thinking deeply, they came up with a conjecture that was hard for them to accept.

Perhaps Yan Ting had been after the Zhenguo Duke Estate's daughter from the very beginning, and had not been sincere. Only then did this sort of situation happen where things were sweet on the surface yet bitter on the inside.

Thinking to this point, the Zhenguo Duke couldn't quite take this blow, and his face suddenly aged quite a bit. The Zhenguo Madam also cried extremely sorrowfully.

Yan Yan had long since predicted that if these things were laid out, her grandparents would definitely be very upset. However, she didn't expect it would be to this degree. She couldn't help but say: "It's all Ah Yan's fault. Ah Yan shouldn't have said these things out loud. Perhaps Ah Yan was wrong in her thinking…."

Second Madam Shen pulled Yan Yan over and slowly stroked her back. "Ah Yan, we don't blame you. You didn't do anything wrong….." Her expression was also extremely complicated.

When Shi Yan Dan married into the Shen household, Shen Yi Yao wasn't even ten years old. She basically watched her grow up, and therefore also knew about the events from back then. She naturally understood what her in-laws were upset about.

She forced a smile and said comfortingly: "Perhaps, perhaps your son-in-law isn't aware of this. After all, that Concubine Pei is Old Madam Yan's niece. It makes sense for her to be a little biased."

"Second daughter-in-law, no need to make excuses for him. I've been wondering why Yao'er hasn't been coming home much these years, and also hasn't brought Ah Yan over. Turns out there was a reason for everything! In the past Yan Ting hadn't gotten a good posting yet and would send Yao'er over frequently to suck up to us. The moment Yan Ting was assigned to the border, Yao'er never comes over anymore. Every time we send someone over, there's always an excuse."

Yan Ting's current posting was personally arranged by the Zhenguo Duke. The Weiyuan Marquis Estate was in their final generation of succession. To prolong their family status naturally required outstanding military achievements. Since the Shen household's eldest son Shen Dong had been guarding the border, the Zhenguo Duke arranged for Yan Ting to be placed under him to let his son-in-law accumulate merit. Now it made the Zhenguo Duke seem both laughable and embarrassed.

He grew angrier the more he thought about it, and couldn't help but pound the table. With a crack, it split apart.

"What a scheme, what a scheme. This elder shoots wild geese all day long, but was actually pecked blind by a little chick. Yan Ting, well done….."

The Zhenguo Duke had served in the military for a lifetime, and was extremely skilled in martial arts. Despite being over sixty, he was still full of vigor. Especially his snow-white beard which was currently billowing, painting an extremely shocking image.

Yan Yan had already been on edge and shivered at the loud noise. She couldn't help but shrink into Second Madam Shen's arms.

The Zhenguo Duke looked at Yan Yan and pain flashed across his eyes. He said: "Ah Yan, don't be scared. Grandfather isn't angry at you."

"Grandfather…" Yan Yan's face was a little at a loss and a little timid. "Did Ah Yan make a mistake…."

The Zhenguo Duke's heart couldn't help but hurt. He both hated Yan Ting's guts and hated his daughter for being so muddleheaded. He said: "Ah Yan wasn't wrong. It's the others who are in the wrong…."

At this time, a teenager ran in from outside. He was around ten years old and had a brawny figure. This was Second Madam Shen's younger son Shen Qi.

"I heard little Ah Yan came…er, grandfather is here as well…"

Shen Qi had been naughty from a young age. He wasn't afraid of anything, except his grandfather. He had heard the servants say Miss Yan had come and wanted to find his little sis to play. He didn't expect his grandfather to be here as well.

Since he had come, it wasn't easy to leave again. Shen Qi approached and saluted the people, then ran over to Yan Yan's side. He pulled her hand and said: "Little Ah Yan, big bro came to find you to play. How's your whip training going? Want to go play around with it?"

Shen Qi wasn't much older than Yan Yan, merely older by a few months. However, he had always liked to act older, and would always call out "little Ah Yan", as though she was very young. In reality, he was also just a little brat.

Second Madam Shen smiled as she looked at her son, and then looked at her in-laws, saying: "Might as well. Ah Yan, go play with Qi'er. As it happens, you haven't seen him in a while."

"But…"

Second Madam Shen stroked Yan Yan's hair and said: "You're still young. Let the elders worry about these matters."

Yan Yan could only nod her head. As for Qi'er, he was a naughty one, pulling on Yan Yan's hand before scampering off.

Yan Yan and Shen Qi had been close from a young age. The Zhenguo Duke Estate emphasized martial arts, and Shen Qi was influenced by this, saying how he wanted to become someone highly skilled in martial arts. At that time, he was only five years old and had just started his training. He would complain endlessly at being dragged out and made to stand in horse-stance by his dad, but his tone was completely different when bragging to his little sis. Yan Yan had mocked him and thus the two started arguing. Eventually, they became rivals.

Shen Yi Yao hadn't been willing to allow little Ah Yan to learn martial arts. In her mind, girls should be gentle and refined. However, she couldn't overcome the Zhenguo Duke's willingness to have Yan Yan learn. He said that the Zhenguo Duke Estate had very few women, and Shen Yi Yao had been his only daughter. However, she was always gentle and quiet, and was pampered by the Zhenguo Madam. Therefore, this daughter of his wasn't raised in the usual manner of the estate where martial arts was emphasized. She became so elegant and refined that she didn't seem to be from the Zhenguo Duke Estate.

As for Yan Yan, she had always been lively and spirited, her personality competitive. This went along well with the Zhenguo Duke Estate's tyrannical nature, and made the duke cherish her. Her wanting to learn martial arts made the Zhenguo Duke overjoyed.

However, since she had been only five years old at the time, her nature wasn't set yet. The Zhenguo Duke had tested her out for a few days. Unexpectedly, despite her age, Yan Yan's willpower was impressive. She would remain in horse stance if ordered, and would grit her teeth and endure no matter how long she had to hold it.

Since Yan Yan was a girl, she was limited by her body. Therefore, the Zhenguo Duke chose the whip as her weapon. Lady Hui was also given to Yan Yan by the Zhenguo Duke at the time so that she could continue her martial arts training at the Weiyuan Marquis Estate.

Yan Yan and Shen Qi arrived at the martial training grounds of the estate. Shen Qi often trained here and picked up a lance with familiarity. He showed off a few proper looking moves.

Seeing this, Yan Yan recalled the times when she and Shen Qi competed in holding a horse-stance when they first started training.

She smiled and picked up a coiled whip from the weapons rack. Seeing the whip, she felt a little touched. Although she hadn't come to the Zhenguo Duke Estate in almost two years and hadn't competed with Shen Qi in martial arts in a long time, he had never forgotten her. Normally a weapons rack wouldn't have whips, but he remembered to prepare one for her.

Yan Yan held the whip and tested it out before unleashing a set of eight-trigrams flowing dragon whip routine. Although her body was small and her strength was lacking, the whip formed an impenetrable barrier around her that Shen Qi found hard to take in.

He clapped his hands and said: "Who would have thought little Ah Yan is getting better and better at using a whip? Looks like you've been practicing regularly."

"Isn't big bro Qi the same way?"

The two looked at each other and smiled, the slight foreignness at not having met for a long time instantly fading.

"Why haven't you come in so long? My mom said you've grown and that girls can't be the same as boys." Shen Qi threw the lance back into the rack as he spoke.

Yan Yan froze for a second before saying with a smile: "There's a lot of etiquette to learn, but I've never neglected my whip."

"That's also true. We can't be as carefree as we used to be! Recently, my dad wants to send me to the Qingshan Institute to study. He said martial arts can't be neglected but literature must be learned as well." Saying this, Shen Qi revealed a bitter expression.

"Second uncle is also doing it for your own good. You can't just become an illiterate muscle man."

"But after going to the institute, there's no way I can run around and play all day. Oh right, I got a new bull horn bow. How about I take you to see it?" As he spoke, Shen Qi revealed an excited expression.

Normally Yan Yan naturally would be rather interested. At this moment however, she was a little hesitant, her expression a little downcast. "Forget it, I'm not in the mood."

"What's wrong? Did someone bully you? Tell me who bullied you. Big bro will go seek revenge for you."

"No, it's nothing. I'm thinking that my mom might be coming over soon….."

Right as she spoke, a maid came to report that her mother had returned to the estate and that Yan Yan should go to the Ninghui Hall.

Hearing that her own mom had come, Yan Yan actually didn't feel like seeing her. But how could she not go? She could only dillydally over to the Ninghui Hall along with Shen Qi.

Second Madam Shen had left angrily with Yan Yan back then, leaving behind a frightened Shen Yi Yao and Concubine Pei whose expression had changed drastically.

Concubine Pei saw that Shen Yi Yao had been downcast and didn't know what she was thinking. She hurriedly took her leave and went to the Rongan Hall. After Old Madam Yan finished listening, she complained about her niece a little and then cursed Yan Yan that little scourge. Finally, they still had to come up with a plan.

After some discussion, Concubine Pei retreated to the inner room and Old Madam Yan ordered her servant to bring Shen Yi Yao over.

When Shen Yi Yao arrived, Matron Zhao was also present. Old Madam Yan's expression looked angry.

Old Madam Yan first put on a show of strength, denouncing the Zhenguo Duke Estate for not giving their Weiyuan Marquis Estate any face. A second madam actually wanted them to give her an explanation. The old madam then unleashed a flood of tears, saying how everyone came to bully their household when her son wasn't present. She also said that lass Yan was biased towards outsiders and actually brought her relatives to make things difficult for them. Finally she said with difficulty and grievance that for the sake of preserving their relationship with their relatives, she had ordered all the servants involved punished and locked Yan Hong into the small worship hall. She asked Shen Yi Yao to go back to her home and mediate.

Shen Yi Yao was very alarmed. She knew her high family status had always made her husband Yan Ting feel uncomfortable. Because her father and brothers had always been tyrannical and had upset her husband many times. Therefore, she hadn't been going back home as often to avoid making her husband unhappy.

She felt very ashamed at her mother-in-law's various accusations, and along with her second sis-in-law having left in a fury, Shen Yi Yao felt very uneasy.

Hearing her mother-in-law's words, she ordered for her carriage to be prepared and hurried off to the Zhenguo Duke Estate.

14

Posted on December 25, 2020 by PCP Translations

When Yan Yan got to the Ninghui Hall, Shen Yi Yao was sitting there talking to the Zhenguo Duke, the Zhenguo Madam and Second Madam Shen. Her expression was a little resentful. Actually, everyone's expression wasn't too great, especially the Zhenguo Duke who was struggling to hold back his anger.

Seeing Yan Yan come in, Shen Yi Yao gave her a glance and said in a spoiled manner to the Zhenguo Madam: "Mom, I've already told you. Yan Yan isn't sensible. Don't listen to a child's nonsense."

"We shouldn't listen to Ah Yan, but we should listen to you? We've listened to how you didn't look into Ah Mo falling into the water and even locked Ah Yan up after being instigated by others!" The Zhenguo Duke couldn't resist but scold.

"Dad—" Her tone started off spoiled but trailed off after seeing the Zhenguo Duke's frighteningly dark expression.

"Yao'er, how old are you now!? You're already a mother yourself. Dad always thought you were good natured and pure hearted. Only now do I realize how muddleheaded you are! Listen to what you've been saying after getting back. Complaining how Ah Yan shouldn't have sent a message back home after getting locked up, complaining about your second sis-in-law for not giving your in-laws at the Weiyuan Marquis Estate any face. You've complained about everyone. How about looking at yourself and seeing if there are any problems?!"

"Dad…."

"As a principal wife, you don't think about managing the household and actually handed things over to a concubine. As a mother, you don't worry about your children's safety and treat your son falling into the water as no big deal. Your daughter wanted to investigate the matter and you actually listened to others and locked her up. You don't differentiate between right and wrong, and aren't clear between good and evil. You are thoroughly muddleheaded, and are not worthy to be my, Shen Mao Shan's daughter!"

Shen Yi Yao had been spoiled her entire life. Her dad had never spoken a single harsh word to her. His expression of disappointment and hating iron for not becoming steel this time truly stabbed Shen Yi Yao's heart.

"It's all my fault. I shouldn't have let you marry that Yan Ting back then….."

"Dad!" Shen Yi Yao shrieked. "This has nothing to do with husband. Your daughter is doing very well, husband treats me very well, and the household treats me very well. Why do you have to speak about me in this manner? It's been so many years but you're still dissatisfied with husband….it's because of Ah Yan right? What did she say to you?"

Shen Yi Yao turned around and grabbed Yan Yan. "What did you say to grandfather? Why are you so disobedient? You're stirring things up at such a young age, will you only be satisfied after seeing your mom and grandfather argue?"

Shen Yi Yao roared these final words.

She had always viewed herself as a noblewoman. She was gentle and refined. She never argued, let alone roared. This was her first time roaring hysterically, and it was actually at her own daughter.

Yan Yan stood there rigidly, speechless. Shen Qi was dumbfounded, and also didn't know what to say. He could only look at his mom and grandmother.

The Zhenguo Madam had been crying for a while, and kept mumbling "sinner" in between her sobs.

Second Madam Shen stood up and pulled Yan Yan protectively behind her. She said in anger and grief: "Little sis, don't blame your sis-in-law for rebuking you. What does this have to do with Ah Yan? You are truly muddleheaded."

Seeing her second sis-in-law still protecting Yan Yan at this time, Shen Yi Yao recalled her mother-in-law's complaints and was even more angered. She spoke irrationally: "Don't you start with me. You just came to my house to make a show of force. Don't forget that is the Weiyuan Marquis Estate, not the Zhenguo Duke Estate. It's not your place!"

Second Madam Shen turned pale with anger, and said repeatedly: "Fine, fine, I should mind my own business. From now on, I won't bother with your matters as your sis-in-law anymore. I also won't be stepping through your doors."

After speaking, Second Madam Shen wanted to take Yan Yan and leave, but Shen Yi Yao refused to let Yan Yan go. At this moment, Shen Yi Yao was completely hysterical and glared at Second Madam Shen like a shrew.

"This is my daughter. Where are you taking her….."

The rest of her words were interrupted by a flying object. Shen Yi Yao was startled and turned to see a shattered teacup on the floor. She then turned to see her own dad's ashen face.

"Dad….."

"Shen Yi Yao, you're very great. You're extremely great. After marriage, we no longer have any say over you…" The Zhenguo Duke muttered a few words before suddenly erupting, "Scram for me! Just like you said, this is the Zhenguo Duke Estate. It's not your place to make a show of force here!"

Shen Yi Yao's face instantly paled, her body involuntarily shivering. After being frozen for a long while, she finally covered her face and ran off.

"What a sin….." The Zhenguo Madam reached her hand out and cried: "Hurry and stop the eldest miss….."

Another crack sounded. The Zhenguo Duke's other armrest shattered as well.

"No one is allowed to stop her. Let her scram!"

Hearing these words, the maids and grannies outside didn't dare move. Shen Yi Yao's figure faded into the distance.

Yan Yan's second uncle Shen Ding had received the news and returned. The first thing he saw was this scene.

He was around forty years old, tall and sturdy. He had a full beard similar to the Zhenguo Duke. "What's going on here?" Seeing Shen Qi stand there shrunken on the side, he couldn't help but ask: "Did this youngster anger grandfather again? Does this brat need a beating?"

Shen Qi waved his hands in fright, "It wasn't me…"

The Zhenguo Duke let out a long breath before finally recovering. He looked at his granddaughter who stood with her head lowered, and beckoned her over saying: "Ah Yan, come over to grandfather."

Yan Yan walked over. Her face was clearly pale but she still forced a smile, "Grandfather, I'm sorry. If Ah Yan didn't say all those things, you wouldn't have gotten so angry and grandmother wouldn't be so upset."

"Don't listen to your mother. She's muddled. This matter has nothing to do with you. Ah Yan did very well. Our Shen household never suffers grievances in silence. Those who try to make us do so—–"

The rest of his words were left unspoken. He said to Ah Yan: "Don't take your mom's words to heart. She was spoiled rotten by me and your grandmother. Just live here at home properly. With your grandfather supporting you, there's nothing to be afraid of."

He spoke again: "Second daughter-in-law. Take the children back."

Yan Yan nodded and forced her sobs back down.

Actually this matter had completely exceeded Yan Yan's expectations. She only wanted to have her grandparents talk some sense into her mom and let her see things more clearly. She didn't think things would turn out this way. However, she didn't regret her actions. Her personality was stubborn and unyielding to begin with. She never went back on her decisions. She only felt guilty for upsetting her grandparents.

"Yes, dad."

Second Madam Shen left with Yan Yan and Shen Qi. After leaving the Ninghui Hall's gates, Shen Qi asked quietly, "Little Ah Yan. Are you ok?"

Yan Yan forced a smile, "I'm fine."

Second Madam Shen looked at Yan Yan's expression. She didn't seem too upset at Shen Yi Yao scolding her in such a manner.

For a child not to be upset, wasn't it because she had experienced it countless times and gotten numb to it? She couldn't help but feel heartache as she hugged her and said: "Ah Yan. Why didn't you come home and tell grandfather and uncle about this earlier? Would you have still kept things inside after what happened with Mo'er?"

Yan Yan smiled bitterly, "Second aunt, how do I bring such a matter up?"

That's right. How should she bring it up?

Second Madam Shen was a little startled. In the end, this was a household matter. To put it even more bluntly, those people's methods were too good. There wasn't anything to pick out on the surface. Everything else was pushed onto Shen Yi Yao. But Shen Yi Yao…..

This was truly not having anywhere to air one's grievances!

She let out a sigh and stroked Yan Yan's little face.

"It's been hard on you."

The Ninghui Hall's air remained frozen the entire night. Shen Ding and his wife only left around midnight.

It was easy to tell the children that the elders would handle things. But household affairs have always been the most difficult to handle. Especially since it was someone else's house. Their daughter was part of the Yan household now. After marriage, it was no longer easy for her maternal family to interfere.

Of course, the Zhenguo Duke still viewed his daughter as his own. She was his daughter first and a wife second. It wouldn't have been as difficult if things had been discovered early on. They would at most just bring her back and keep their distance. However, there were two grandchildren now. Even if they didn't mind raising their daughter for a lifetime, would Shen Yi Yao be willing?

It was clearly impossible. Shen Yi Yao's behavior from this afternoon was still vivid in their minds.

Therefore, apart from the Zhenguo Madam wiping away more tears and the Zhenguo Duke not having eaten out of anger, there was nothing else they could do. Shen Ding and his wife finally persuaded them to rest before leaving the Ninghui Hall gates.

They still hadn't eaten dinner yet, but neither were in the mood.

"Just what on earth is little sis thinking? In the past I still felt she was pure and kind. How, how did things become this way?"

After Shen Ding returned, he had more or less gotten caught up on things. He had refrained from speaking these words the entire night, afraid to anger his dad and upset his mom. He was older than Shen Yi Yao by eleven years. His little sis had been the family's treasure when she was born. She had never done wrong when she was young, and things had been fine before her marriage. How did things become this way after her marriage? Not only were his parents disturbed, he himself was the same way.

"Life only starts for women after marriage. Anything before that doesn't count."

The husband and wife had been married almost twenty years, and naturally understood this reasoning. She had married well: her in-laws were simple and their status was also high. Her husband was ambitious and their marriage was bright and harmonious. However, she knew not every woman had such luck.

Marrying the wrong person was something that lasted for life.

Of course her little sis couldn't be said to have it rough. Except, how should one put it—-fine, it wasn't easy to describe!

Could they say she wasn't living well? Her mother-in-law cherished her, her husband spoiled her, and she had a son and a daughter. Only by ripping off the coverings and looking at the deepest layer could the truth of the matter be seen.

Suddenly, Second Madam Shen felt a little cold. She couldn't help but wrap her arms around herself, but didn't feel any better. She went and held her husband's arm. What would she do if she encountered this situation where their marital love these past years had all been a lie? She really didn't dare think about it!

"What's wrong?" Second Madam Shen had always been dignified. No matter how intimate the two of them were in private, they would still maintain appearances in public. This was the first time his wife was so intimate with him outside. Shen Ding couldn't help but be shocked.

"It's a little cold."

Shen Ding froze. It was the middle of summer. Only after thinking further did he understand his wife's meaning.

His fierce gaze flashed as he said: "That Yan Ting. I won't let him get away with this!"

Second Madam Shen merely listened without taking it to heart. How would they stop him? If only things were that easy, her in-laws wouldn't be in such a difficult situation. To put it plainly, they were afraid of collateral damage.

She was still their daughter in the end, and they had pampered her for so many years. It was impossible for them not to cherish her. No matter how angry her father-in-law was, his daughter was still his daughter. If he didn't love her, he wouldn't have gotten so angry.

"Who knows how dad will handle this?"

Shen Ding patted her hand. "Don't worry about this. Dad is better at coming up with ideas than I am. Spend some more time with Ah Yan these couple of days. I'm afraid this mess has caused the child a lot of suffering."

Second Madam Shen nodded.

15

Posted on December 25, 2020 by PCP Translations

The shadows of the trees in the imperial gardens flickered and danced.

It was still dark outside, but due to the moon in the sky it was still possible to make out the surroundings.

Luo Huai Yuan rubbed his buttocks as he limped back. He had taken this road back to the Xianyun1 Palace Hall too many times. He could walk it with his eyes closed.

He fumbled his way back and found the gates of the hall only open a crack. He struggled and pushed the doors open, and before he could force himself in a sharp yet happy voice sounded in his ear.

"Highness, you finally returned. You have no idea how many times Concubine Ma came asking about you. This servant kept saying you were still asleep. Concubine Ma said to go see her after you've woken up."

"I got it. Tell me the rest after letting me inside."

Xiao An Zi moved to the side to allow Luo Huai Yun inside. When they reached the lights, Xiao An Zi felt a shriek rise in his chest, but right as it was about to reach his mouth he swallowed it back down. He then said in a low voice: "Fourth prince, why is your face bruised?"

"Er….."

Luo Huai Yuan felt his face. Only after his touch resulted in pain did he realize Xiao An Zi wasn't lying to him.

No wonder he felt sore all over. Turns out his face was also bruised. He had thought it was just his butt.

"How will this do? If Concubine Ma sees highness's face is hurt, she'll definitely cry again….."

Having had enough of Xiao An Zi's fussing, Luo Huai Yuan pushed him away. "Enough, enough. I won't go see mother concubine today. If Que'er comes, say I haven't woken up yet."

"There's no other choice….." Xiao An Zi said sullenly.

While they spoke, the two had already entered the Xianyun Hall. The moment they entered, Xiao An Zi shut the doors.

"My goodness. Fourth prince, why are you covered in dirt!?"

"I say, Xiao An Zi. Can you stop being so dramatic? Go get me some water to wash it off."

Xiao An Zi left while muttering to himself and Luo Huai Yuan entered the inner hall. There was a mirror that was half a person's height inside, and he went over.

The copper mirror was bronze colored, but since it was something belonging to the royal family, it had been polished until it was gleaming, and the reflection could be seen extremely clearly. In the mirror was a little fatty, his round and chubby face full of bruises as he grimaced at himself.

Luo Huai Yuan was frozen.

When he woke up, he was curled up by himself in a corner of the imperial gardens. That small corner was where he loved to spend his time when he was young after crossing over to this world. Therefore, despite not having been there for many years, he knew instantly where he was.

He had raised his head and saw the full moon above. It was a silent night.

In his daze, Luo Huai Yuan had even wondered if everything had merely been a dream, and that he had just woken up now after falling asleep, tired from playing too much.

Then, he had stumbled back, his head muddled the entire way.

Now that he was standing in front of the mirror, he was thunderstruck as he looked at himself.

Was it truly all a dream?

But why could he still clearly see the blood trickling from her lips as she closed her eyes and departed, and feel that heart-rending grief in his chest? He still felt that heaven-scouring fury, his unvented resentment and his unwillingness that made his heart and his hands, and even his entire body tremble.

Was it truly a dream?

Luo Huai Yuan, looks like you like dreaming too much. That's why you feel everything was a dream!

There was no dream. It had never been a dream. Otherwise, your heart wouldn't be hurting so!

Xiao An Zi carried over a basin of water.

He was thirteen or fourteen years old, his features delicate and his body frail. When he was seven or eight, he was arranged by Luo Huai Yuan's side to serve. Now that he was older, he was still loyal and devoted. His mouth was just a little fussy.

"Highness, hurry and come wash up. The small kitchen's fire had long been extinguished. Therefore, this servant could only fetch a pail of cold water."

Luo Huai Yuan didn't speak. He first took off his clothes by himself and walked over to let Xiao An Zi wipe him down with a towel.

Xiao An Zi fussed as he wiped. After wiping for a while, his eyes turned red and his tone was mournful.

"Highness, did the second and third prince beat you up again? Why else would your body be full of bruises as well….."

Luo Huai Yuan froze and said superficially: "Don't remember."

That's true. The fourth prince's memory had never been good. But was it so bad that he didn't remember being beat up recently? Xiao An Zi wasn't old and he didn't think too deeply. He could only look sympathetically at his pitiful master.

After washing up, Luo Huai Yuan crawled into bed.

Xiao An Zi wanted to keep watch for the night but he didn't permit it, and had him go rest. His thoughts were very chaotic and he wanted to be by himself.

The inner hall grew dark but Luo Huai Yuan wasn't able to fall asleep.

That resentment and grief prior to his death in his past life was still fresh in his mind. Although his body had calmed down, his mind was unable to do so.

He had actually reincarnated? He had returned back to when he was twelve years old!

During this period of time, Luo Huai Yuan had already recalled this event.

In his past life, his royal father had also gotten fed up of this fat and foolish son of his, and ordered for his food to be controlled so he could lose weight. It was supposed to just be controlling his portions each time, but instead some contemptible people took advantage of this to take away his food. He had been suffering from hunger when old fifth Luo Jing had given him a plate of osmanthus flower cakes. He was about to go share them with his mother when he ran into the second prince Luo Jin and the third prince Luo Qi. They had not only knocked the cakes down, they even made him kneel and pick the cakes back up.

At that time he had already lived in the Grand Xi for twelve years and had been taught from a young age by his timid mom to remain low-key, mediocre, timid and foolish. It was best to let others feel disgusted when looking at him. At that time he also understood that if he hadn't done so, he might have died prematurely as his mom had said.

This palace was too frightening, and the two women that had dominated the harem were too frightening. Luo Huai Yuan had been unconvinced when he first transmigrated, but gave up after seeing countless women miscarry or their children die prematurely via more and more hidden schemes…..

This word was too savage, and he was so weak others could pinch him to death!

Therefore, he pretended to be foolish. He pretended for twelve years until it became second nature. But he still had some temper after all, and being stomped on and humiliated by those two children, he had thrown the cakes in Luo Qi's face in a fit of anger. What followed was a round of violent beating.

He hadn't retaliated. The moment the cake left his hand, he had snapped out of it. He had covered his head and taken the beating before going to his little space to sit blankly. Then he had accidentally fallen asleep and only returned after dark.

He had actually come back to this time?

Luo Huai Yuan wouldn't think of this as the opportunity in novels where the weeb counterattacks as the male lead who reincarnates, gets revenge on all his enemies and conquers the world. Perhaps if he was the same person as he used to be back in the modern world, he would have done so. However, after everything that happened in his past life, Luo Huai Yuan wouldn't have such naïve thoughts anymore.

Are the heavens messing with me?

You refuse to give me any goldfinger and want me to suffer eight more years in this palace before getting my freedom? Actually it wouldn't be freedom since he would still lose his life after a number of years.

He would even cause her to be dragged in—–

"…..if you're still my consort in the next life, let's be husband and wife, ok? I will bravely cherish you, cherish you so, so much. I will treasure you…."

"…..give birth to some fat little children for me at that time. I'll take you to travel the world…."

"…..I've always wanted to do so, but never had the money before, and didn't have the freedom now…."

The words he spoke prior to his death seemed incredibly laughable in his memories. How could he do all this if he didn't even have control over his own life?

The blood trickling from her mouth and her face as she died flashed before his eyes. Luo Huai Yuan, are you really going to have her accompany you in death once again?

Concubine Ma came to the Xianyun Hall bright and early.

She didn't even give Luo Huai Yuan and Xiao An Zi a chance to put on an act.

As expected, when she saw her son's face, she couldn't stop crying.

"My son, your mom has let you down…"

Concubine Ma was a plain woman. Her figure was chubby and her face was round. Of course, she wasn't ugly. But within this palace filled with flowers, she seemed a little ugly.

Others felt that Concubine Ma being able to give birth to the fourth prince was a sort of miracle. She was just a palace maid by Emperor Xi's side, and he had once slept with her after getting drunk.

This wasn't the first time something like this happened, but those palace maids were all good looking ones. Even Emperor Xi didn't expect that the palace maid he randomly pulled over when he was drunk would be so plain looking. Of course, the deed was already done. Regardless, all the women in the palace belonged to his majesty, and being able to sleep with him was a blessing.

As Concubine Ma was taken out, Emperor Xi had given orders. The eunuchs had complied accordingly and rubbed Concubine Ma's bellybutton area until the royal seed had all flowed out.

Unexpectedly, Concubine Ma had still gotten pregnant.

The emperor had few children so getting pregnant was naturally a good thing. Therefore, Concubine Ma was conferred the most common of titles, mistress, and given a palace hall to live in. Ten months later, she gave birth to a son. Emperor Xi was overjoyed and conferred Mistress Ma as Concubine Ma instead.

Of course this was only what happened on the surface. Even Mistress Ma hadn't expected to be able to give birth to the child safely. Having stayed in the palace so many years, she had naturally seen many things that weren't visible to those above. The harem had many shameful secrets and all sorts of hidden schemes.

Without saying anything else, there were quite a few concubines who got pregnant in the imperial palace. However, those who were able to give birth successfully could be counted on one's fingers. Prior to Concubine Ma giving birth to the fourth prince, apart from the empress's crown prince, there was only Senior Concubine Xu's second and third prince.

Concubine Ma was a timid person. If she had the choice, she would have rather not been graced by the emperor at all. But she was a palace maid and could only have accepted it. Who would have thought she would give birth to a prince?

It was good to give birth to a prince. Her wealth and status increased by quite a bit. But before that, she had to figure out how to keep her son alive.

Concubine Ma was a foolish person, and she could only use foolish methods. Actually, even if she had good methods she wouldn't have been able to use them. She didn't have any background nor was she favored. Even a more influential servant in the palace had more power than she did. Her foolish method was to not be a threat. If her child was just as plain as her, the concubines in the harem wouldn't take him seriously. It wasn't enough for the prince to look plain. He had to be hated by his majesty, and also can't have any promising prospects. Only someone like this would not be a threat.

Therefore, while Luo Huai Yuan was still a helpless baby, he was fattened up by Concubine Ma. When he was around two or three, he was already a small blob of meat. He only learned to walk after he turned four.

During his infancy, his mom would hold him daily and ask him not to blame her since she had no choice. Luo Huai Yuan hadn't been able to move at the time, and after listening for a while he had understood the gist of things.

This was a foolish woman and also a weak woman. She was just a pawn under imperial rule. She didn't have the ability to overcome the whims of fate. She could only try and protect her own using her methods.

To protect himself, Luo Huai Yuan could only follow along.

After racking his brains, he realized that this woman wasn't actually foolish. Her method was merely the only one available to her.

It had truly been useful. Emperor Xi hated his fat and timid self, and he was able to survive to maturity.

"….did the second and third prince beat you again? Didn't mom tell you to avoid them? You retaliated, didn't you? Didn't mom tell you that as long as you don't resist, those lofty people wouldn't come bother you in the future? If you were to resist, they would only enjoy messing with you even more…."

This was Concubine Ma speaking from her experience as a palace maid. She had experienced this for many years, and was also using her experience to teach her own son.

Luo Huai Yuan's face was wooden as he listened to Concubine Ma speak while crying.

He couldn't be blamed. Anyone would go crazy after being brainwashed daily!

"Mom, I definitely won't resist next time, I definitely won't….."

Only these words could make Concubine Ma's tears and fussing stop. This was Luo Huai Yuan's experience from his past life.

Concubine Ma hugged her fat son and sobbed: "Oh son, it can't be helped. It's all because we're lowly in status. There aren't that many years left. Once you come of age, you can leave this place. Before then, we can only endure." In his past life, Concubine Ma had told him the same thing.

After finally sending his mother concubine off, Luo Huai Yuan fell exhausted back in bed.

Leave this place. Leave this place. Just what should he do to leave this place?

Author's words:

Haha the osmanthus cakes. Fatty Yun having a deep impression of those cakes wasn't for no reason. Repressed Jing, do you still remember those cakes by Lake Daming?

The male lead has appeared. It's him, you can label him.

1-Idle Cloud.