While the Emperor was escorted back to the palace, there were no assassination attempts or any other dramatic events that often occur in novels and legends. Jin Fengju personally watched the Emperor enter the study, and only then did he let out a sigh of relief and took his leave. The Emperor chuckled and said, "We actually wanted to keep you here, but you still have guests to attend to at home. It's fine, you may leave. Do not forget to attend court tomorrow. We are only afraid that these days of leisure could have made you forget that you are still an official of Our Great Ning Empire."
Jin Fengju quickly knelt down and said, "This official is filled with trepidation and dares not forget the heavy burden this official bear as an official of the Great Ning Empire."
The Emperor's gaze flickered, and he nodded with a smile. "That's good. Keep these words firmly in your heart, and everything will be fine in the future, just as it has always been. Alright, you may leave now."
"Yes, this official will comply with Your Majesty's orders, this official and will take his leave," Jin Fengju replied. He then backed out of the study and happened to encounter Li Dezheng, who had personally come with tea. Jin Fengju smiled and said, "Eunuch Li, if something like this happens again, please try to persuade His Majesty. Who can endure such a sudden event? I wonder how chaotic my estate has become now."
Li Dezheng chuckled and replied, "Who says I didn't try to persuade him? Does the Young Marquis still not understand our Emperor's temperament? This servant knew that your residence wasn't prepared, so this servant specifically mentioned it to the Emperor. This servant suggested that it would be better to go to the Prince's palaces since you and the Duke were not in your estate. However, His Majesty did not agree. Young Marquis, your favour and prestige have truly reached the heavens. Except for the princes, among the officials, no one else enjoys such favour and grace."
Jin Fengju laughed and said, "Indeed, I am grateful for the Emperor's kindness. It's just that this visit was far too sudden. If we had been informed a few months in advance, we could have made much better preparations."
After exchanging a few more words with Li Dezheng, this chief eunuch who has been serving at the Emperor's side for many years and had been observing from the side indifferently all that while, finally understood the situation. He knew that the position of the crown prince was almost certain to fall into the hands of Prince Rong. And who is responsible for this? Wasn't it as clear as a mirror? Therefore, he paid special attention to Jin Fengju.
After leaving the palace, Jin Fengju hurried back home and went straight to Health& Longevity Court. As he entered, he heard a commotion inside. He quickly walked in and saw Huo'shi, Cui'shi, and others had also arrived in a group with Jiang Wanying, presently gathered around Fu Qiuning, talking about something. They were the concubines and basically didn't have the qualification to enter the house and meet the Emperor directly, so they could only show their faces after the Emperor had left.
"What's going on here? Are you all ganging up on her?" Jin Fengju approached and indeed saw Fu Qiuning with a flat expression on her face, a hint of anger in her eyes. She looked at him and said with a smile that wasn't really a smile, "Lord Husband, ask these Younger Sisters about it. Maybe they couldn't come in because they were outside, and when they heard that the Emperor asked me a few questions, now they probably want to tear me apart and eat a few pieces of my flesh to share in my glory."
Jiang Wanying smiled sweetly and said, "Elder Sister is really good at joking. We were merely envious of how the Emperor praised Elder Sister, so we asked a few more questions. How could we dare to tear Elder Sister's flesh and eat it? Lord Husband would be the first one who would refuse to let us off. Didn't you see how protective he was of Elder Sister just now? I always thought that heroes saving damsels in distress only happened in plays, but now I've personally witnessed our real-life hero here saving a damsel himself."
Jin Fengju wasn't interested in arguing with the women. He sneered and said, "It's good that you know that I'm protecting her. Then, you should also learn to restrain yourselves sometimes. It's only been a few days since Xu'shi left, and you're already thinking about a comeback? If you want to make fun of someone, you should also pick a softer persimmon to target."
Ignoring the displeased expressions on Jiang Wanying's, Huo'shi's and the other people's faces, he then asked Fu Qiuning, "Where did the children go?"
Fu Qiuning replied, "They went to play in the inner court. Has the Emperor returned to the palace?"
Jin Fengju nodded and said, "He has returned. I'm afraid this sudden event has given the people in the estate quite a fright. I'll go and check on Elder Madam. You should find a place to rest for a while. If it's too noisy, you can go into the Old Madam's room and sleep there." As he spoke, he headed towards Old Madam Jin's side.
Back there, Jiang Wanying sneered, "Elder Sister, you've truly become the apple of his eye. You have really given every little detail a considerable amount of thought. Why don't you go rest in the room now? Please don't waste Lord Husband's efforts."
Fu Qiuning watched her resentful gaze and suddenly smiled. She slowly sat down on a nearby chair and leisurely said, "Seeing Lord Husband return has lifted my spirits somewhat. It's not bad to have some excitement to watch. Otherwise, if it were too quiet, life would be meaningless."
It had been proven that even the most indifferent person shouldn't be pushed to the limit. Fu Qiuning's current situation was just the same, like a needle hidden in a sponge. As long as her own interests weren't threatened, she could ignore their provocations and schemes and take a step back. But if pushed too far, the sharp tip of the hidden needle would reveal how sharp it was: You bitches want a fight, don't you? Well then, today, this Mommy will play with you to your heart's content.
In her mind, she roared brazenly without restraint. She finally understood why women in ancient times fought desperately, acted jealous, and tried to please their husbands. Because, in such a patriarchal society, when women had to rely on men to survive smoothly, the feeling of being arrogant and domineering through favouritism was indeed satisfying. At the very least, looking at the gazes of Jiang Wanying and the others, she felt quite happy.
"Elder Sister, please spare us. If Lord Husband turns back and sees us, he might suspect that we are causing you trouble. Younger Sister doesn't want to bear that accusation."
Jiang Wanying's body was trembling faintly with anger. She, a dignified granddaughter of Duke Lu, was being suppressed like this by a shu-born daughter of the palace. Ultimately, who was the prime culprit behind all that? Her gaze involuntarily turned towards the grandparent and grandchild pair on the couch who were chatting and laughing. Hatred grew madly in her heart, accompanied by vicious curses: Don't be too pleased with yourself yet, don't think you have already won. There will come a day… There will come a day when I'll trample you underfoot, all of you. Cousin, if you're unkind to me, don't blame me for being unjust to you. She shouted wildly in her heart.
Fu Qiuning's voice came from beside her, a confident and indifferent tone, pretending to be "hypocritical": "If you don't want the master to suspect, isn't it simple? Just keep your distance from me." She faced Jiang Wanying's venomous gaze and a disdainful smile appeared on her lips. "Your eyes look really scary now. Are you really planning to devour me? I advise you to restrain yourself a bit. The master is above, and you never know when his attention might turn this way."
Jiang Wanying took a deep breath, forcing herself to calm down: Hmph, what was the point of fighting with this woman? She needed to broaden her perspective. She would make this smug and self-satisfied Jing Dukedom, when they were all in the clouds at their peak, fall from grace. At that time, not just this woman, even her cousin would have to bow down and beg for forgiveness in front of her. The thought of making the usually proud Jin Fengju grovel before her, lifted her mood considerably. She cast a final cold glance at Fu Qiuning before turning away and leaving.
Something… is not right.
Fu Qiuning watched Jiang Wanying's retreating figure, her brows furrowing tightly: That wasn't just a simple look of jealousy and resentment. Although it was indeed very venomous, behind that poisonous gaze, there seemed to be an unexpected firmness, as if… it was a look of something breaking inside.
Unable to help herself, she looked up at Jin Fengju, wondering: Could it be that I'm ignorant? Is divorce actually allowed in this era? Only in TV dramas do wives who have decided to completely break ties with a man they once loved, would reveal such a gaze, right? It would take an actor with exquisite acting skills to achieve this.
Jin Fengju exchanged a few words with the Old Madam and then went out to entertain the guests. That day, the Emperor visited the Jing Dukedom incognito, and it was easy to imagine what kind of storm and waves this honour would stir among the visitors. Jin Fengju was busy entertaining until late at night before he could return to Elegant Mansion. When he saw Fu Qiuning still waiting for him on the couch, he asked wearily, "You still have not gone to bed? There's no need to wait for me on a day like this."
Fu Qiuning stood up, noticing that the usually tidy and neat Young Marquis had red-rimmed eyes and unsteady steps. His dishevelled hair added to the disorder. He found the heated kang bed and immediately lay down, muttering, "This has exhausted me to death. Let me sleep well. I have to attend court early tomorrow morning. Qiuning, don't forget to wake me up."
"Alright, you can sleep peacefully now," Fu Qiuning picked up a thin silk quilt and covered him. Thinking about how this man had risked himself to speak up for her, how he had managed to convince the Emperor before he laid out his ironclad sentence and save her from a certain fate, her heart was filled with tenderness. She lightly kissed Jin Fengju's forehead and placed a sobering pill in his mouth before finally resting herself.
The next morning, Fu Qiuning woke up early. Seeing that the sky was already getting bright, she went to the kitchen. Jian Feng was already there, discussing breakfast arrangements with Aunt Qin, the cook. When she saw Qiuning approaching, she hurriedly greeted, "Madam, why don't you sleep a bit longer? It gets bright very early in the summer, but it's still early in terms of time."
Fu Qiuning smiled and replied, "Lord husband has to attend court today, so I can't be as leisurely as usual. What breakfast have you and Aunt Qin prepared?"
Jian Feng smiled and said, "Nothing special, just the usual, just made some white porridge, heated a few rice dumplings, and asked Aunt Qin to fry some Youtiao. This maid has already sent Xiao Si to buy soy milk from the street. Although it's bought from the street, it tastes similar to the soy milk we get when we grind tofu at home. We also prepared a few small dishes and boiled some salted duck eggs. Madam, would you like to add anything else?"
Fu Qiuning smiled and said, "No need for anything else, this is very good." She couldn't help but feel a bit emotional, thinking that the customs of ancient times were truly simple. In modern times, how could store-bought soy milk compare to freshly ground soy milk at home? And at that time, there was no need to worry about food hygiene, nor worry about random harmful substances added to the food. In a way, this was one of the great advantages of transmigrating back to ancient times.
Of course, along with the advantages, there were also many disadvantages. Life without computers, electric lights, running water, modern comforts, or flush toilets was indeed too inconvenient. Fortunately, when Fu Qiuning was in the modern world, she was deeply obsessed with traditional opera and not so interested in the Internet. Otherwise, if she had become addicted to gaming, life in that ancient era would have been truly torturous.
Still, she often thought about the two novels she was following. Over the years, the author must have already completed them, right? But for her, they had become eternal black holes, causing her heartache just thinking about it.
"Madam… Madam…"
Jian Feng's voice broke through Fu Qiuning's thoughts. Seeing her mistress blink at her, the beautiful maid said warily, "What is Madam thinking? To be so lost in thoughts?"
"Nothing," Fu Qiuning shrugged. "Just some past events. Breakfast would be ready soon, yes? I shall wake the master."
Then, she turned and left.
Jin Fengju was still sound asleep in the bedroom. Fu Qiuning called him twice from a distance, but the man did not move. When she pushed at him, he merely grunted and rolled over. She wondered what she should do next.
Finally, she decided to speak the magic words, "Lord Husband, you have morning court."
Jin Fengju suddenly sprang out of bed. He looked around in a daze for a moment, muttering, "Court? Yes, morning court. I have morning court today."
He started rushing about in the room, "Hurry, where are my clothes? My heavens, ah. I have morning court. I still haven't rested enough, ah!"
Yu Jie had already thoughtfully laid out everything for him and all Fu Qiuning had to do was say, "Lord Husband, your toiletries are here. I shall see to breakfast. Ah, Yu Jie is here with the hot water."
Then, she turned around and left the chaos behind her, nodding to a hovering Jin Ming, who had his master's uniform in hand. Fu Qiuning looked at him, then at the clothes.
"Second Madam Ying allowed these clothes to be taken out?" she asked.
"Y-yes, in fact, she did not cry or make trouble about it," he said cheerfully.
Fu Qiuning was appalled.
This was out of character for someone like Jiang Wanying. Privately, she lit a candle for Jin Fengju's future. Then, after some thought, she extinguished that candle and lit one for herself instead. Who cares what happened to him? What is more important is what would happen to her!
Breakfast was quickly brought in by the maids and Fu Qiuning watched as Jin Fengju stuffed his face with two rice dumplings, a bowl of porridge and some fried youtiao. Oh well, it looked like someone either has a very good head for drinking or that sobering pill that Yu Jie insisted on preparing was akin to a miracle drug.
She had to marvel at the amount he ate. Just how much money was needed to raise this person…?
Jin Ming had the foresight to call for a sedan chair for his master. After putting on his official clothes, Jin Fengju ran out to the courtyard and settled himself into the chair, finally able to catch his breath as the others did the running instead.
As soon as he left Elegant Mansion's gate, he encountered the two Feng sisters and Concubine Mei coming towards Elegant Mansion. Although he felt anxious about being late, he was forced to stop out of politeness and leaned out of the sedan chair to smile and say, "What are the young misses and madam concubine doing coming so early today?"
Feng Zhenzhu and Feng Mingzhu took one look at him and both lowered their heads. When the two beauties with lowered heads and lashes stood side by side, there was an inexplicable feeling of something pitiful yet amorous. However, Jin Fengju was feeling too anxious about making it to work on time to appreciate the view. Instead, he was busy thinking: What are they doing here so early? Usually, neither Qiuning nor I would be awake at this time.
Concubine Mei smiled, "Nothing much, we went to bed early yesterday and woke up early with nothing to do today. So, the young ladies and I decided to take a small stroll in the garden. We saw smoke rising from the distance, recalling that the maid informed us about how the Master would be going to court today and thought that Madam would be awake at this time. So, we came over for a little visit."
Jin Fengju nodded, "So, it is like this. Qiuning is indeed available for guests. Madam Concubine and the young ladies may go in. I need to go to court and cannot stay."
"Of course, the Young Marquis must have countless matters to attend to, now that the Emperor has personally come to the estate to summon you to court. What immense favour! This speaks volumes of how much the Emperor must value the Young Marquis." Concubine Mei's eyes curved with mirth and joy as she continued to praise and flatter Jin Fengju with a few more words before finally letting him go on his way.
After he left, she turned to Feng Zhenzhu and Feng Mingzhu and sighed, "Just think, Second Madam Ning is truly blessed. A great and talented man like the Young Marquis is truly hard to find in this entire world, and yet, she managed to marry him."
Feng Zhenzhu and Feng Mingzhu could not help the blush on their cheeks as they lowered their lashes wordlessly. Concubine Mei looked at them as a thought entered her heart.
In all fairness, she understood that it was not at all reasonable for herself and the two Feng family ladies to continue to reside within the Duke of Jing's estate, considering their identities.
Though the servants may not speak excessively to their faces, but she was all too aware of what was being discussed behind their backs. On the other hand, if one of the three girls could become the Young Marquis' concubine or even a secondary wife, things would be different.
After all, it is only a matter of time before an outstanding person like the Young Marquis chose a new woman for his harem, so why not one of the Feng girls? Aside from their age, all three were great beauties in their own right. If there was anything lacking about the Second Madam Ning, it was her looks. Moreover, since the household power was still under Second Madam Ying, her authority to speak up and make decisions was clearly limited.
Not to mention, though she technically had the twins under her name, they were of murky bloodline and she had no children of her own to secure her position in the inner court. If their side were to promise loyalty to Second Madam Ning, surely she would look favourably upon them and welcome their support? After all, rather than having some wild woman from outside or a maid or cousin from the Jiang side, having one of the Feng girls marry the Young Marquis as a concubine would be a boon for her.
Fu Qiuning was a little surprised to receive these early morning guests. Still, she invited them in and took the initiative to serve them breakfast since it was unlikely that they had any yet. A small kitchen had been set up to serve the people at Yong Cui Garden, but it was unlikely that they had gotten around to serving breakfast so early in the morning.
The reason why Elegant Mansion even had food at that time was because Jin Fengju had to attend court and therefore special arrangements were made. As the hostess, Fu Qiuning strongly insisted that Concubine Mei and the ladies stayed for breakfast and the three were quickly persuaded to stay.
Warmed by Fu Qiuning's insistent invitation, the ladies no longer hesitated and felt as though they were as intimate as sisters with Fu Qiuning.
Look how wonderfully friendly and affable she was! Clearly, this woman wants to maintain a good relationship with them for whatever future conflict.
After breakfast, Fu Qiuning watched as Jin Changfeng and Jin Zhenyi led their younger brother and sister to school. She personally accompanied them to the gate, saying things like, "Be careful on your way and don't carelessly trip on rocks. Brother Yi, you should make sure to watch that temper of yours and put more effort into your studies instead of playing around too much."
Jin Zhenyi pursed his lips. This woman would nag at them every morning, she was even more of a nag than his own mother. He had no idea how Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao tolerated this woman. Even so, there was a disturbance in his heart about this woman's behaviour.
Wasn't she just a fake mother? Why was she doing it? Him aside, even those twins did not actually belong to her. Was she so desperate to have her own children that she would accept just anyone into her home?
First, it was those two cheap seeds. Now, she even welcomed the children of her enemy with smiles. It made him feel uncomfortable. Sure enough, this kind of woman is too insidious! He must be careful…
Once the children had left, Concubine Mei smiled and said, "Although it is said that Concubine Xu brought misfortune upon herself and deserved to be banished to the village, I pity those two children. Though they are partly involved in the matter, given their age, what could they know? All children are innocent and carefree at heart. They merely learn what they have been taught by adults. Now that their mother is gone, I cannot imagine what their future would be like.
In the end, by having them stay with you, the Young Marquis proved to be the most thoughtful of fathers. Why, I was just speaking to our young misses the other day, how we fear that you would be troubled by children who were suddenly thrust upon you. However, I can see that Second Madam treats them very well. That Brother Yi, I heard tales about how wild he could be, but he appears quite docile under your care. Amitabha, it is truly the children's luck to come to your courtyard."
Fu Qiuning smiled stiffly, "Please don't say that, Madam Concubine, I am just doing what I should for the children.
As the ladies chatted, they saw Jin Yanfang enter with her two children. She beamed at everyone the moment she entered the door and said, "What's this? To think that Madam Concubine and my sisters are all much earlier than I. Looks like you are all aiming for my sister-in-law's food. Do you not fear being made fun of by others?"
Everyone laughed. Fu Qiuning got up to welcome her and pulled Jin Yanfang over to sit on the opposite couch, "Sister is so noble that I don't have anything good enough for her. In the future, please don't rely on me for meals."
Feng Mingzhu chimed in jokingly, "That is so, we managed to trick some good food this morning, which is why there is now none for Sister-in-law."
The Feng brother and sister, Feng Yuanzhan and Feng Yuzhi, wanted to go off and look for the older children to play with, but were told that the older children had gone to school. When they heard that their older cousins were not around, the Feng siblings pouted dispiritedly on the side. Fu Qiuning smiled and said, "You two are still a little young for school, otherwise you could go with them. Unfortunately, there is nothing much to play with here… well, let us adjourn to the Old Ancestor's place instead."
Concubine Mei and the others hurriedly stood up with Fu Qiuning and saluted her as she went to her room to tidy herself up a little. Then, the ladies and two children all set out for Health & Longevity Court. They sat for a while with the elder ladies before dispersing to their own individual places.
Fu Qiuning got up too early that day, and felt a little sleepy by noon. After informing Yu Jie that she would be napping in the back room and 'to call her if anyone came by', she made her way to the couch and took a nap on a brocade quilt.
The couch had been placed just by the window. As the day progressed, the sun shone warmly on her person, but a gentle breeze kept her cool. Fu Qiuning was just thinking that this was how life should be when she heard footsteps. Thinking it was probably some young maid's impatient steps, she ignored it.
A short while later, someone spoke close to her ear , "The sun is almost on your face. Aren't you hot? If your skin becomes sunburnt, I wonder how you plan to go out and face people."
Fu Qiuning inwardly sighed: Am I destined to never have a peaceful day?
She opened her eyes and, yes, it was Jin Fengju.
He was beaming down at her with a winsome expression. After some thought, she closed her eyes and turned her back to him.
Sadly, this did not deter the man as she felt a weight bearing down on her back. She sighed: Does he want to collect rent now? In the middle of the day?
"Why are you here?"
Jin Fengju chuckled, "Somehow it feels very comfortable to lie down here…"
"If you want to do something, just say so, it's not like I could deny you."
"No, no, of course not," Jin Fengju was quick to deny it. The hand that had been creeping up her waist suddenly became well-behaved and stroked her hair instead. "I would never dream of forcing you into anything…"
"That's because Lord Husband favours tricks instead," she said bluntly.
He laughed, his voice pitched a little higher than usual as he said, "What- what do you mean?"
"The six large snakes, your friend the ghost-"
Sudden loud laughter cut her off, "Goodness! So my petty tricks have all been seen through. Alas! I have never done anything so embarrassing in my life, just twice, and both times it was because of you. Indeed, our Second Madam Ning is a great heroine and my methods are nothing in your eyes. Must you keep mentioning it? Am I not shamed enough? Hahaha!"
Fu Qiuning rolled her eyes, and got out of the couch, "I fear that some people have no concept of shame." Having nothing better to do, she sat before the mirror and began to tidy up her hair and clothes.
In the mirror, she saw Jin Fengju also sitting up. He beamed and said, "That is right, a few days ago a merchant who did business in the West brought me a mirror. Though the item is light, it shows the image more clearly than these bronze mirrors. Too bad there's only one. Moreover, this thing is too fragile and not easily moved and outrageously expensive. gifting me one is already a great favour, which is why I did not ask for more. Even if I wanted to purchase more, there were none to be had. In the end, I could only gift it to the Old Ancestor. In another two days, you may go and have a look at it at Health & Longevity Court. That thing is truly curious."
When Jin Fengju saw Fu Qiuning looking at the mirror, he suddenly started talking about the mirror he had purchased. As for Fu Qiuning… she barely paused in her tidying up. A fragile mirror that shows one's image more clearly had to be the glass mirror.
Was he trying to buy her favour with things? That would be just like him, wouldn't it? This kind of behaviour was not limited to ancient male chauvinists, since she even had parents from the modern world that behaved just like that. Instead of giving proper attention to their children, the parents gave material things, pocket money, smartphones, games and more to buy their children's favour. It was even worse when the parents were divorced.
Think about it, the first thing he did when he entered her sanctuary was to bribe the children to like him. If I had not encouraged the children to think well about their absentee father, would a relationship even form? She had also seen how he had interacted with his other children. He only favoured the 'smart' ones, and even then, they were only as well treated as their mothers. Fu Qiuning supposed that this was perfectly on par with the 'ancient noble male' attitude, she understood this, but that did not mean she had to like it.
As she brooded over various things, in Jin Fengju's eyes, he only saw his beloved Qiuning remaining unmoved and disinterested in curiosities that would normally send people into squeals of rapture. He secretly praised her for being calm and unmoved by material things. Feeling proud of himself for having chosen such a wonderful person to fall in love with, he said, "I still have a banquet to attend later. I won't be here for lunch."
He waited eagerly for Fu Qiuning to express dismay over his absence.
Fu Qiuning lowered her comb and said, "I shall let the maids know. I'm sure they are in the middle of adding some exquisite dishes to the menu."
When nothing else was said, Jin Fengju pouted and said, "Aren't you going to ask why I stopped by when I have to leave so soon? Truth be told, I could not help it. I cannot muster the strength to go through a whole banquet without at least a glimpse of my beloved wife~~"
"… I see that someone had been sucking on honey lately,"
Jin Fengju felt himself blush.
He too felt that he adored Fu Qiuning too much. The sweet words that just left his lips earlier were not something he would usually say, but for some reason, whenever he looked at Fu Qiuning's indifferent face, he felt an itch in his chest and would inevitably blurt out tender words. Was this what being in love was like? No wonder the stories and novels about love between men and women were so… vigorous.
Suddenly, he remembered what he was supposed to do that day and got up. He straightened his clothes and said, "That's right, one other thing. I had Jin Ming exchange some gold and silver at the bank. When Cai Lian and Biyu come by, put the money away after verifying the amount. With Wanying acting as keeper of the house, well, she could be a little cautious with money. I worry for Yanfang and the others. I know that Yanfang won't say anything to me. Just keep the money for now and take care of them. If something happens to be short, just make up for the lack."
"… …"
"Qiuning?"
"… life as a woman in a noble house is hard," was all she had to say.
As Jin Fengju spluttered and muttered a bunch of things, she ignored him and continued to brush her hair. It's not like she did not understand why she was given money. It was to ensure that she maintained Jin Yanfang's and the Feng family's favour. From what she could see, Jiang Wanying did not like Jin Yanfang or the Feng family, and would most likely short them of money. Madam Jiang would support her niece's decision.
The money was not out of the generosity of his heart. He just wanted her to step into the disgusting mire that is harem politics and build her own little faction with Jin Yanfang on her side. If she was a real noble lady from that period, she could even send one or both of the gorgeous Feng sisters to Jin Fengju's bed and have them be grateful to her for arranging this favour…
Before she could say yes or no to this 'duty', Jin Fengju had already fled, perhaps not wanting to confront the fact that he had turned a blind eye to Jiang Wanying deliberately starving the people of Night Breeze Pavilion.
When Bi Yu and Cai Lian came to Elegant Mansion, they came bearing two large cases that had to be carried by a few servants, followed by a bunch of other things.
"… …" Fu Qiuning stared at the line of servants bearing more things. Then at the beaming Cai Lian and Bi Yu. "Are these all gold and silver?"
The maids tittered behind their hands. Seeing no one around, Cai Lian came closer and said with a beaming smile, "This is the Master's personal wealth. He had us move it here for Madam's safekeeping. The list is here, Madam, do please go through it. These are no ordinary things. These are precious treasures that Master had preserved for many years. Even Second Madam Wan only receives one or two items occasionally, but unexpectedly, everything is now under Madam's care!"
"… …" as expected… was it because she had ignored him just now that he wanted to buy her affection with material things?
Fu Qiuning cast a cursory look over the list. Aside from gold and silver, there were also precious jade, antiques, calligraphy, paintings and other valuable odds and ends.
She knew it, the man did not want her to live a peaceful life. To throw such things in her place was a signal to the rest of the harem to attack her. Precious afternoon off now long gone, she called Yu Jie, Aunt Yu and Jian Feng over and went on to organise the endless stuff at a couple of the storage houses at Elegant Mansion. Luckily, the servant boys were swift on their feet and soon, there was only one last box left and these turned out to contain 200 taels of gold, 500 taels of silver and a few hundred copper coins. There were also a few dozen gold beans and leaves as well as 200 pieces of broken silver pieces.
Fu Qiuning had the gold, silver and copper coins brought to the bedroom when she spotted Cai Lian following behind with a small box. Cai Lian beamed at her and said, "This is some of Master's private money that he had been saving all these years. Please keep them safe, Madam."
Fu Qiuning frowned and asked, "Private savings? The things just now aren't considered private savings?" She accepted the box and found a stack of banknotes inside. The top few were worth a thousand taels each, followed by five thousand tael notes, and at the bottom were three bills worth ten thousand taels each. Roughly estimating, that stack of banknotes alone amounted to over two hundred thousand taels.
Fu Qiuning was dumbfounded. She thought: F*ck, is Jin Fengju a corrupt official?
She looked at Cai Lian, "Where is this money from? Such a large sum should belong to the public fund, right? How can this be private savings? Surely even the public fund doesn't have this much money?"
Cai Lian smiled and said, "If the public fund of the dukedom only has this much, how could it handle the estate expenses? Please rest assured, Madam. The master is a very capable person. Over the years, the master managed his official duties flawlessly and received rewards from the Emperor. This fund is from those rewards and some other small business income. The master cares for you greatly, that is why he entrusted his entire fortune to you. Otherwise, even Second Madam Wan, who is aware of Master's private fund, dares not covet it."
"… …" Finally, she sighed and asked, "Who else knows about this?"
Cai Lian tittered and said, "With so many chests, how could we avoid notice? Even so, Master intentionally chose ordinary chests to transport these precious treasures. Therefore, we could just say that the boxes merely contain some gifts of silk, jewellery and other trinkets for Madam. No one would be the wiser. Considering Master's deep love for Madam, it is only right to gift you with many things. No one would suspect that Master's affection is so deep that he would actually entrust his entire private funds to you. Do be at ease, these gifts would not arouse anything beyond the usual petty little jealousies and would not put Madam in any kind of danger."
Cai Lian rattled off her assurances with a puffed-up chest. She thought herself quite clever and understood Fu Qiuning's concerns. Naturally, she also did not forget to flatter the Madam and praise her Master for having a discerning eye. Just then, Bi Yu entered the room with yet another chest in hand.
Fu Qiuning sighed, "What now?"
"These are property deeds and land certificates for some of the farmsteads." Bi Yu said as she handed the small chest to Fu Qiuning. Then, she turned to Cai Lian, "Yesterday, Master mentioned that with the weather getting hotter, he bade me bring his collection of fans to Madam's place. I nearly turned the whole place upside down looking for them. Do you know where they are stored?"
Cai Lian laughed and said, "No wonder I could not see a hint of your shadow even though the rest of the servants have arrived. You were busy looking for the Master's fans. Well, I know where they are stored, I shall go and fetch them right away~!"
With that, she turned around and left the room.
Fu Qiuning took a glance at the property deeds in the chest before shutting the lid on them. "If these deeds are genuine, looks like Lord Husband has several thousands of hectares of land in his name… If this is merely private property, what does the land belonging to the public fund look like…"
Bi Yu chuckled and said, "Why do you think everyone is so eager to become an official, and then aspire to gain noble titles after that? Aren't they all chasing after wealth and status? On the other hand, our estate has existed for generations and engaged in many secret businesses. That is why we have such immense wealth and prosperity. An ordinary duke or prince's estate may not even be so prosperous."
"I see," Fu Qiuning nodded slowly. She thought: With so much money, land, and power in his hand, he could not even be bothered to send a sack of grain or a roll of coarse cloth to Night Breeze Pavilion in the entire six years we were exiled there. This Jin Fengju likes to complain about how 'far' Night Breeze Pavilion is from his private harem, but isn't the property still within the marquisate's estate? To think that he could not be bothered to send even a standard gift of food and clothing during the new year or anything while sitting on so much wealth…
Fu Qiuning stared at the two boxes of deeds and banknotes with shadowed eyes. She understood that this was Jin Fengju's way of purchasing her favour. To be given so much money and property now… what did he want from her? So, what if he gave her all this money now? Isn't it like adding flowers to a brocade cloth? During those cold winter months, they did not even get a single lump of coal from the public fund or from her excessively rich husband. As she pondered this, she felt as if her guts were tied into a hundred knots, and she could not describe the exact feeling she was experiencing.
Bi Yu's sudden laughter interrupted her thoughts, "Is that Cai Lian slacking off again? Why hasn't she returned yet? Has she gone to pretty herself up again?"
Fu Qiuning blinked at Bi Yu. "You say that… Cai Lian had gone to pretty herself up?"
Bi Yu tittered again, it sounded a little nervous this time, "Master's orders came so suddenly that we barely had time to dress properly, how could we dare to pretty ourselves up when Master ordered us to complete this matter quickly?"
There was an expectant pause after that, which Fu Qiuning did nothing but frown into the distance. She finally noticed that Bi Yu had nothing in her hair, not even a simple pearl hairpin. Come to think of it, Cai Lian was also the same.
Believing that she had annoyed Fu Qiuning, Bi Yu quickly continued, "Besides, how dare we show off in front of Madam? Wearing too many accessories would simply be an eyesore to Madam."
Fu Qiuning blinked slowly at this maid. Then, she took another look around the room. The once moderately plain room was now littered with things. There were opened boxes of accessories as well as gold, silver and copper coins everywhere. That's right, per the usual arrangement, she should be rewarding these maids for their hard work. Cai Lian's aggressive flattery and Bi Yu's nervous hinting finally reached her, and she smiled gently at the maid, "No need to make others blush with these words. I know full well that my appearance cannot be compared to the other women in the Young Marquis' harem."
While Bi Yu protested, she rummaged through one of the jewellery boxes from the cabinet and took out a gold hairpin decorated with golden flowers. She handed the hairpin to Bi Yu, saying, "Put this on. The unique cluster of flowers and the pearl centre compliments your looks well."
Bi Yu hastily declined, but Fu Qiuning decisively placed the pin into her hands. "What are we but women belonging to one man? Your beauty also brings radiance to my face. As for Cai Lian, she had given me a precious hairpin of hers, but I have yet to give her anything in return. What do you think of these jade emerald bracelets? Do you think these would suit her fair wrists?"
"They are too precious," Bi Yu said.
Just then, footsteps were heard and Cai Lian entered with a sandalwood box in her hands. Fortunately, the box only contained fans. Even so, considering how well they were kept, they were clearly precious to Jin Fengju, if not valuable for their art or material.
Since the person in question had arrived, Fu Qiuning bestowed the jade bracelets to Cai Lian, who also protested. It was only after some persuasion from Bi Yu that she reluctantly accepted them. A few more exchanges later, the two bedroom maids left Elegant Mansion.
Back in their own room, Cai Lian immediately complained, "Bi Yu, is your memory too short? Have you forgotten how Master scolded us over a single buyao that I gave to Madam? To think you dare to reach out a hand for Madam's things? Do you even want to stay in this estate anymore?"
Bi Yu smiled and replied, "You are now fearing the rope for ten years after having been bitten by a snake once.
You are usually clever and sharp, but I fear you cannot see the situation clearly as the person involved in it. Master reprimanded you for gifting someone above your status with your belongings. I begged her for things as a servant, therefore all is well."
Frustrated, Cai Lian muttered, "I heard that Master gifted my buyao to that slut Yu Jie…"
Bi Yu calmly responded, "That's because he did not want a servant's gift on his beloved's head. Now that the gift has gone to Yu Jie, the matter is considered settled. As for the gifts from Madam, take a look at your bracelets, do you think they are any inferior to your buyao? That Madam is willing to gift us things more precious than the buyao shows that all had been forgiven. Don't you think we should be grateful for this?"
Cai Lian squirmed a little uncomfortably, but then a smile bloomed across her face, "You cunning little slut, you're right. What the master hates most are greedy women who forgot their places. I had indeed forgotten my place…"
"I think… you believed that Second Madam Ning is someone easily manipulated and tried your luck," said Bi Yu gently. "You are fortunate that Master is someone who values loyalty and long service. Let us not overstep our bounds anymore and maintain our role through loyalty and good service."
Cai Lian went still, "Bi Yu, do you think… Master would ever look our way again?"
Bi Yu sighed, "We are merely bedroom maids. Moreover, we are already old as bedroom maids. That we could still remain within this estate is already too good for us. Other households would have replaced us with younger, prettier bedmates."
When Cai Lian said nothing, she continued, "Not to mention, after Master acknowledged Second Madam Ning's position, he barely visits Second Madam Wan, Concubine Huo'shi or Concubine Yue Lan's chambers anymore, let alone the two of us. Are you really willing to live as a spinster or a widow? Don't you want to have your own family, a husband to spend your life with, and children to love, spoil and care for?"
Cai Lian curled her fists. Beneath the shock and bewilderment, a sudden feeling of longing arose within her.
Speaking of Fu Qiuning, she was caught off guard by Jin Fengju's sudden move, which greatly disturbed her. She was originally feeling tired and sleepy, but at that time, she couldn't even take a nap. She called for Aunt Yu and Jian Feng, saying, "The junior maids are unaware of today's events. Only the three of you know. In order to ensure the peace and stability of our Elegant Mansion, you must not leak a single word about this matter. Even if someone suspects something and tries to probe openly or secretly, you must keep it hidden. Do you understand?"
The three of them also understood the gravity of the situation and nodded in agreement. Fu Qiuning sighed, having many things she wanted to discuss with these trusted confidants of hers, but she didn't know what to say. Silence filled the room.
Yu Jie then stood up and said, "The little kitchen in the back made some new dim sum today. I will go check if they're good and bring a couple of plates for Madam." Just as she was about to leave, a young maid named Deng Hua rushed over, her crisp and sweet voice saying, "Madam, Madam, there is someone outside claiming to be Madam's younger sister, saying that she came specifically to see Madam. Madam, please go out and greet her soon."
"Younger sister?"
Fu Qiuning looked with surprise at the junior maid, then turned to Aunt Yu and Jian Feng, wondering, "When did I have a younger sister? Who is this person who has come now? Do you two know anything about it?"
The maids burst into laughter upon hearing her question. Aunt Yu shook her head and said, "Why would Madam ask us maids about this? How would we recognize Madam's relatives? Yu Jie might know more, but I have been by your side for so many years and have never heard of any relatives visiting you. However, at the palace, people were coming to visit occasionally."
Fu Qiuning thought to herself: Were those people really just visiting me at the palace? They were simply trying to re-enact the Mystery in the Residence drama.
She stood up and said, "Never mind, regardless of who it is, let us go out and see." As she spoke, a flash of inspiration crossed her mind. It was as if something had passed before her eyes, but she wasn't able to grasp it.
When she stepped out of the Elegant Mansion, she saw a sedan chair being lifted in the courtyard. Xia Yue, Jiang Wanying's maid, was standing outside the sedan chair. When she saw Fu Qiuning, she came forward with a smile and said, "This is Prince Lie's concubine. She came to our mansion today, and our Second Madam received her. She said she wanted to see Madam, so the Second Madam sent this maid to escort her over."
As they spoke, the vibrant red curtain of the sedan was lifted, and a stunning young woman emerged. Upon seeing Fu Qiuning, she approached with a radiant smile and performed a wanfu salute respectfully. Qiuning quickly helped her up with a sudden realisation, thinking: That's right, Jin Fengju did mention to me before that my second uncle's di-born daughter has been married off to Prince Lie as a lesser concubine. And now, it seems this sister of mine has risen from being a lesser concubine to a proper concubine.
With a renewed spirit and a smiling face, she exchanged pleasantries with Fu Qiulan. Qiulan was then welcomed into the house, while Xia Yue excused herself. The two sisters settled in the side hall, and Jian Feng personally served tea. Fu Qiuning said, "When Younger Sister was married, I simply had some matters to attend to in my residence and was not able to see you off in time. Please do excuse me for having Younger Sister longing for me so much that Younger Sister even specially visited me today. Younger Sister really has a kind heart."
Although Fu Qiulian was stunningly beautiful, she still appeared composed. She softly chuckled and said, "Elder Sister, we are the same, both being victims of circumstances. On this point, if I used to be simple and naive in the past, ignorant of these twists and turns, what is there that I don't understand now? During my idle moments, I often thought of you, Elder Sister. I believe these past few years must have been much harder to bear for you than for me. Unfortunately, Younger Sister understood this truth too late; otherwise, I would have come to visit Elder Sister earlier.
People say offering help in times of need is the most difficult. Yet, now, Elder Sister has gained the favour of the Young Marquis. If I were to speak of whatever sisterly love, it would seem like adding icing on the cake. In truth, whether it is offering help in times of need or adding icing on the cake, we sisters are merely sympathizing with each other in the same predicament."
Fu Qiuning was taken aback by her words, but she couldn't discern any clues despite scrutinising her younger sister's expression. Although her heart whispered doubts towards her mind, she still smiled and asked, "Why do you say such things, Younger Sister? Previously, my Lord Husband told me that you married as a lesser concubine, but now, you have become a proper concubine. This is indeed a good thing. Why would you bring up the idea of sympathizing with each other?"
Fu Qiulian smiled faintly and murmured, "A proper concubine? What's the difference between being a lesser concubine and a proper concubine? To Lord Prince, I am nothing more than a fleeting novelty that can be thrown away after a few days. It is fortunate that this belly of mine is competent and I have managed to conceive. Otherwise, in the fierce competition within the Prince's palace, where all the beauties vie for attention, when would it ever be my turn to become a proper concubine?"
Fu Qiuning's face immediately lit up with joy. She stood up and said, "So Younger Sister has actually become pregnant? This is fantastic news. If you can give birth to a royal child for Prince Lie, why would you still worry about not receiving much of his love and favour?" Afterwards, she walked up to Fu Qiulian to examine her waist carefully and asked how many months along she was. Hearing that it was just over two months, she urged her sister to take good care of herself.
After the two sisters chatted away for a while, as the sun began to set, a matron entered the room and said, "Concubine has been away for quite some time, and this servant is afraid Lord Prince will start worrying. It would be better to return to the Palace early." Upon hearing this, Fu Qiulian stood up, a trace of melancholy appearing on her face. She softly said, "Elder Sister, I should be going now. When I have some free time, I will come and visit Elder Sister again. If Elder Sister has the opportunity, I hope you can visit the palace as well and visit me. You know I have a lively personality, but now that I am confined to a secluded chamber, I feel terribly lonely."
Fu Qiuning hurriedly agreed, immediately seeing Fu Qiulian off and watching the sedan chair depart before turning back. However, Yu Jie expressed doubt, "Madam, I have indeed seen this Sixth Miss when we were in the palace, but it seemed that her relationship with you wasn't very deep. So why did she suddenly come over now? What does it mean?"
Fu Qiuning smiled and replied, "Do you understand the saying 'Use the unchanging to prepare for ten thousand changes'?
Let's not worry about her intentions. All will be well as long as we have no ulterior motives. We won't plot against her, and we won't let her plot against us either." After saying that, she returned to her bedroom, leaned back on the couch, and let out a lazy stretch. "Really now, seeing this guest has indeed reawakened my weariness. We still have some time before the children finish school, so let me relax for a while."
As soon as she finished speaking, a junior maid's voice came from outside the door, "Madam, Concubine Huo has arrived."
"Concubine Huo?"
Fu Qiuning sat up abruptly and first glanced at Yu Jie in confusion, then became irritated and said, "What's happening today? It seems that the Heavenly Emperor doesn't want me to rest. Yu Jie, go and check the almanac later to see if it is an inauspicious day for staying at home. It is a really odd day to have guests coming one after another while I am at home. This is truly peculiar."
Yu Jie couldn't help herself and wanted to laugh, but seeing her Madam's annoyance, she dared not laugh and quickly accompanied Qiuning to the side hall. There, they saw Concubine Huo sitting and drinking tea. When she saw Qiuning coming out, she stood up, saluted, and smiled, "I have been busy lately and haven't had a chance, but I have always intended to come and visit Madam. However, one thing after another kept coming up, and I couldn't find any leisure time. That Second Madam Wan of ours, Madam should be well aware of what she is, right? Whenever I am noticed by her, if she does not stop bothering me until I comply, she would not be able to highlight her abilities. I woke up early today with much difficulty and a slight headache, told them I was ill, and finally obtained some free time to come visit this afternoon."
Fu Qiuning smiled faintly, sat down at the main seat and calmly said, "If Younger Sister has a headache, you should rest quietly in your room. If you come here and then catch a cold on your way back later, the people who know your situation would say that Younger Sister came here on your own, but wouldn't the people who do not know your situation think that I disregarded Younger Sister's illness and even ordered you around? By then, won't I appear more ruthless than Younger Sister Wan?"
Concubine Huo's expression froze for a moment, and then she quickly followed up with a smile, "Madam, how can you say that? There will not be anyone who would think that way anymore. Since you moved to this Elegant Mansion, ai, well, not to mention now, let us talk about when you were in the Night Breeze Pavilion, would there even be anyone left in this estate that can find fault with you? Second Madam Wan caused trouble twice, yet how did it all end? My heart is as clear as a mirror on this matter. It is not just because Lord Husband dotes on Madam, but more so because you walk under the heavens with righteousness. As long as Madam walks the straight road and sits upright, what would you have to fear?"
While speaking, she reached out and took a box from the maid's hand, smiling, "These are snacks my maternal family sent yesterday. They hired a pastry chef from the West, and when I ate them, they were indeed different from our snacks. It is not that they are better than ours, but they have their own unique flavour. I also gave two boxes to the Old Madam and Elder Madam in the afternoon, and they both said it was good."
Although Concubine Huo's status was not high, because her maternal family held a third-ranking official post in the capital, she often had the opportunity to visit places like the Health & Longevity Court, Madam Jiang's residence and others. She didn't have to be as cautious and restrained with her status as other people with her status in different noble families.
Upon hearing her words, Fu Qiuning felt as if she had been struck by lightning, her eyes filled with astonishment as she looked at the box.
Indeed, these Western pastries were a novelty. Because of Concubine Huo's father's position in the Ministry of Rites, overseeing the reception of foreign envoys and their tribute, he had more contact with people in that field. So, after he hired such a master and had these pastries made, he eagerly sent them to his daughter, hoping that she would secure her position in the dukedom and not end up like Concubine Xu, who was sent away to the village.
When the pastries were sent to the Old Madam's, Madam Jiang's, Jiang Wanying's and other people's rooms earlier, everyone found them remarkable, and they all praised the taste after trying them. So when Fu Qiuning showed surprise, Concubine Huo didn't pay much attention. However, seeing Fu Qiuning's expression as if she had been struck by lightning, it was hard not to be curious.
"Madam, Madam?"
Concubine Huo called out twice in succession before Fu Qiuning finally snapped back to reality. Seeing the other's puzzled expression, she realized that she had lost her composure.
But then again, she also couldn't be blamed for that. Previously, she had always believed that although the Great Ning Empire wasn't too isolated, its interactions with countries across the ocean were very limited. Wasn't the reason why the glass mirrors mentioned by Jin Fengju could fetch sky-high prices in the capital because there were very few merchants venturing out to conduct business in the West? How… how could such a lowly official's household in the capital even manage to hire a Westerner to make pastries? This… Could it be that in this period, the exchanges between the West were actually frequent, but she had been sitting in her own little world in her home and remained oblivious to it all?
That didn't sound correct either. This dukedom was incredibly wealthy, and if trade was truly frequent, there should be many Western objects in the estate, right? However, up till then, besides seeing the striking clocks in a few rooms and the occasional bottle filled with perfume, she had hardly seen anything else.