Higher Level Wife

by Usui Takumii

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

20. 161 to 165

"Are there still any students in the school now?" Fu Qiuning asked Jin Zhuan, hearing him say that all the other students were still in class, and the teacher was also there. She rubbed her clenched fist and said softly, "I understand. You go back and watch over the young master. Yu Jie, select two boys to accompany Jin Zhuan. If he can't walk because he has knelt too much, carry him back."

"Madam, when has Elder Brother ever gone through this kind of suffering? I don't know how long he still has to kneel there..," said Yu Jie anxiously, with tears falling down her face. "Besides, the children in the school all hate him in their hearts, so if we don't bring him back now, won't the little white-eyed wolves will take advantage of the situation and throw rocks down the well? "

Fu Qiuning let out a long sigh, shaking her head, "Do you think I do not know? The truth is that my heart also feels like it is being stewed in a frying pan, but what can be done? Feng'er was the one who made the first move. No matter what, the fault is on him. I heard from Jin Zhuan, that Brother Yi has been messing with him for more than 3 days. Children have the shortest memories. Feng'er should have first ignored him and washed his hands clean of the matter long ago. However, while he was persevering, behind the scenes, it is hard to guarantee that the adults are not secretly fanning the flames. If that is really the case, then this time, this matter is not easy to deal with. "

"That… then what can we do? Madam, should we just let those people reverse what is black and white? Although Elder Brother Feng'er is intelligent, his nature is calm and he will not loudly defend himself…" Yu Jie said while crying, whimpering, "Now I really understand why Madam did not want to provoke the young marquis, why you refused to move into the inner court even until your death. It has not even been half a month since we moved to Elegant Mansion, and yet such a thing has happened, how… how can we continue to live on in the future..? Woohoohoo…"

Fu Qiuning smiled tragically, stroked the teacup in her hand, shook her head and said, "Once you enter the estate gates, it is as deep as the sea. Stepping into this deep and wide courtyard, except for holding on, what else can I do? Fortunately, this male of mine can still be considered extremely smart, so he won't let those few women play around with him in the palms of their hands."

As she talked, she took a sip of tea and whispered to Yu Jie, "Go, have two servant boys follow Jin Zhuan. The teacher usually treats Feng'er very well, and he should also understand his character, so I expect that he won't punish him too harshly. I asked Aunt Yu to prepare the medicinal wine here, so when you come back, rub it on his knees. It is still warm these days, this should not leave any roots of illnesses in him."

Seeing Fu Qiuning talking, Yu Jie's eyes were a little dazed and she knew that her heart was also a mess at the moment. Thinking of what she just said, she was afraid that she would not be able to deal with it, so she didn't dare to disturb her and led Jin Zhuan along to depart.

Indeed, after two hours, Jin Changfeng came back with a big green splotch on his knee. Fu QIuning was not able to stop her tears from falling after pulling up his pants legs and taking a look at them.

Ever since the two children have followed her, because they have been steeped in bitter water, they were extremely understanding even when they were still little. Having grown up so much, Qiuning has not even flicked them with a finger yet, because they simply did not need to be disciplined by her. But unexpectedly, he received such a big punishment in school that day. Kneeling on the bluestone slab floor for two hours, for a nine-year-old child, is indeed very harsh.

"Why couldn't you hold your temper down? What's the point of arguing with that kind of bastard?" Yu Jie, Aunt Yu and Jian Feng could not help but cry. Yu Jie rambled on the side, "Just what was this for this time? There were so many other incidents in the past, but didn't you endure all of them too?"

Jin Changfeng pursed his lips, his handsome little face still holding a trace of anger. It could be seen that this time, Jin Zhenyi had really touched on who knew what reverse scale he had. Otherwise, this child would never become that angry.

"Mother." When Qiuning put away the medicinal wine, he suddenly opened his mouth. His big eyes looked at Qiuning, his gaze clear, "Give me a beating, use a cane, beat me until I bleed."

Yu Jie, Aunt Yu and Jian Feng were aghast. Right as they were about to reply, Fu Qiuning waved her hand and said softly, "All of you, withdraw."

The three of them did not want to leave, but they knew that they could not do anything for the young master, and only Qiuning could make him say what was in his heart. So, they had no choice but to retreat.

Back there, Fu Qiuning straightened up, sat on the couch and slowly wrapped her arms around Changfeng, asking softly: "Why do I have to beat you? To show your father? To let him know that I have already punished you, so that you can escape father's punishment?"

"No." Jin Changfeng replied unhesitantly. His big eyes were a little red, just looking at Qiuning, but he refused to speak anymore.

"If it is not for your own sake, then it should be for Mother's sake. You are afraid that your father will blame Mother for not educating you well, so you want to let Mother beat you, so that when your father looks at you, he will think that Mother knows how to teach her children, and it is only that you don't know how to behave. Am I right?"

Jin Changfeng lowered his head, but still refused to speak. Fu Qiuning sighed and hugged him, "It was your fate that you were born into this noble estate. Even if you don't work on these mind tricks, you would also be forced to play mind tricks. But your father is so smart, do you think that these little tricks can fool him?"

Jin Changfeng's body shivered. The originally straight body finally collapsed softly in Qiuning's arms, and a single teardrop fell on Qiuning's hand.

"What are you crying for? The schemes you play can't fool your father, so do you think the tricks that others play can fool him? Alright now, don't cry, Father and Mother are here. Feng'er is Father's and Mother's precious treasure. During the time that your wings have not grown firm yet, Father and Mother will shield you from the wind and rain with our big wings. Mother knows that you are absolutely not one of those delinquent, arrogant and domineering children. Come, tell Mother, in the end, what did Brother Yi say? What made you move your hands this thoughtlessly? You have already been in the school for more than half a year, so why did you lose your temper today?"

"Mother, will Father really be partial to us?" Jin Changfeng tilted up his little face to look at Fu Qiuning and saw her smile and say, "Not being partial, your father is the smartest. You are all his children, all his sweethearts, he will not favour any one of you and he will be very fair. Who should be at fault, is who should confess first. Tell Mother now, why did you do it?"

"Brother Zhenyi insulted Mother."

Jin Changfeng sullenly let out those words, thought a bit more and spat out hatefully, "He said that mother's Chastity Proving Dust, was not because of Father…"

Stopping there, he could not continue.

Fu Qiuning's body trembled, finally understanding why this Jin Changfeng, who had always been calm and introverted, became so impulsive this time.

With a tiny cold laugh, she sat up straight, slowly let go of Jin Changfeng's body, held his ice-cold little hand instead and said to herself, "I see. Xu'shi ah Xu'shi, in any case, you are also one who has come from a noble mansion, so how could you be so stupid? Do you not understand Lord Husband at all? This is you seeking your own death, and it has nothing to do with me. "

"Mother…" Jin Changfeng held Fu Qiuning's hand and looked at her with some confusion. But she smiled gently, stroked his hair and said, "It's alright, when your father comes back, let's watch a good show. Feng'er, don't be afraid, Father will make the decision for us."

Hearing Fu Qiuning say so, Jin Changfeng set down the boulder in his heart. He finally felt the heart-piercing pain from his knee and could not help but moan softly.

As the fresh brushed by his face, Jin Fengju walked on the road, feeling quite pleased.

This time, the ones attending the get-together were not ordinary noblemen, but some learned great scholars. Otherwise, with his yet-to-be-healed leg injury, why would he want to attend that banquet? With his current position, except for the emperor, who else could force him to do things that he did not want to do?

Among these great scholars, several students were also Jin Fengju's classmates back in those days, so he invited them over. He also admired the literary talent of those people and happily attended, but in the beginning, he found that several of the great scholars didn't think much of him. Indeed, the rich and powerful children of noble families have always been despised by these great scholars who flaunt their moral superiority.

However, after some conversation, those people could not help but be impressed by this rich and powerful son, and after the banquet started, they had already turned into a group of people who were happy and joyful, just like the reunion of old friends who had not seen each other for many years.

Jin Fengju did not dare to say that he regards achievements as manure, since he actually still cares a lot about them. After all, they were related to the glory of the whole family. But being able to obtain these great scholars' affirmation and appreciation, how would he, who was ultimately a teenager at heart, not feel even a bit pleased?

So, he inevitably downed a few more cups at the banquet inevitably, but fortunately, after leaving the palanquin and feeling the breeze, his mind sobered up a bit…

Sounds of "bing bing bang bang" were still coming out from the residences at the edges of the Jing Dukedom, and Jin Ming smiled and said, "The Second Old Master's residence is almost finished. Master has not yet seen it yet, do you want to take a look?"

Jin Fengju laughed and said, "My legs are a bit sore now, so it's better to hurry back to the Elegant Mansion. The matters over at Second Uncle's side are his own concern. Father will also help with the busywork when he has nothing to do, so what business do I have, going there to point things out?"

As they chatted, they walked into the Jing Dukedom. When they arrived at the study, they heard the boy say that the Grand Master was in the Second Old Master's residence. So, he went towards the inner court, and just after entering the gates, he saw a maid pounce over, dripping with pearly tears. Before she even got close, the sound of crying almost shook the sky, "Woohoohoo… Young Duke, quickly, please go see Young Master Zhenyi."

Jin Fengju felt that the tiny bit of wine left in his head was blown away by this howl, His heart flipped with a "thump" and he quickly asked in a stern voice, "What happened with Zhenyi? Tell me quickly."

"Our young master… woohoohoo… was almost beaten to death by young master Changfeng. Master, quickly go see. The concubine is crying like a weeping statue, young master Zhenyi's head keeps bleeding, and the entire Calling Crane Pavilion is in a mess, woohoohoo…"

Jin Fengju couldn't help but exchange looks with Jin Ming. Then he had a flash of sternness in his eyes and said woodenly, "Alright, I understand, I am heading to Calling Crane Pavilion." After he finished speaking, he moved his feet towards the Calling Crane Pavilion while the little maid hurriedly followed behind.

In Calling Crane Pavilion, at that time, Xu'shi really was crying until her eyes were red and swollen. Looking at her son's head, decorated with several blood trails, looking somewhat hideous, she asked with heartache, "Son, does it hurt? It's all Mother's fault, this wound is also too big."

"How could I make Father feel sorry if the cut is not big? Mother, don't worry. I'm fine. As the saying goes, One could not catch a wolf if you spare your child [1]. I don't like seeing those two cheap seeds in the school hall. If this injury could help Mother clear out that woman and expel those cheap seeds from school, this cut is worth it."

Jin Zhenyi was casually sitting on the bed, nibbling on an apple as blood continued to drizzle down his face. Now and then, he would use his hand to wipe the blood off.

"Good, Zhenyi is truly mother's good child," Concubine Xu was both relieved and happy. Thinking that: My son is truly the best and most attentive. Just look at the way that shameless Fu Qiuning happily raising those pair of cuckoos. Tch, surely there's nothing but bitter water in their black bellies, right?

Her thoughts were interrupted by a maid outside the courtyard who almost shrieked, "The Young Marquis has arrived!"

Jin Zhenyi was so frightened his soul almost flew away. He jerked his hand and the half-gnawed apple flew across the room to land somewhere in the room. He quickly pulled up the covers and huffed and puffed a few times to make himself look weak and breathless.

Right at that moment, Jin Fengju came through the door and into the room. He glanced at the two lesser maids holding the door curtain. The corner of his mouth twisted, revealing an [a] unclear smile.

"One cannot tell just from your look just how loud your voices are. I fear your voices could even cure the death." He sneered [a] the moment he stepped in. He had already seen the half-gnawed apple rolling under the table.

What kind of person was Jin Fengju? A single look at the gnawed apple with its skin on was enough for him to know that it was eaten by Jin Zhenyi. Because that child had the habit of eating whole apples instead of getting the servants to properly peel and cut them for him. Moreover, the exposed apple flesh still looked bright, with not a hint of brown on it, indicating that the apple had clearly just been bitten.

More thoughts brewed in his heart as he walked towards Jin Zhenyi's bedside. He looked at Concubine Xu,

"How is he? Lord Husband may take a look for himself. It is the fault of those precious washer woman progeny's fault," Concubine Xu continued to cry and sob, but her words were still clear. "Lord Husband, just look. Look at that large cut, how could that little bastard bear to commit such an evil deed? No matter what, it's still his younger brother, ah. Though they are not from the same womb, they still share the same father, surely there must be some small measure of affection between them? Yet, to move his hand in such an evil way… wuwuwu, Lord Husband, you must attain justice for us mother and son, ah. Otherwise, I too cannot… wuwuwu…"

Jin Feng moved closer to the bed. On cue, Jin Zhenyi weakly opened his eyes and whimpered, "Father…" before fainting away like a wronged person on his deathbed.

"Jin Ming, go to the Imperial Hospital and call for Imperial Doctor Li," Jin Fengju tapped his palm with his folding fan. He frowned at Xu'shi, "You were so filled with sorrow that you actually forgot to call for a physician? Look at his face, some of the blood had already dried. You can't even wipe the blood off his face?"

Concubine Xu froze. She had deliberately not called for a physician to bandage the wound. Are you joking? Once the wound was bandaged, how could she show Lord Husband her son's pitiful, blood-soaked appearance? As for wiping his face, the cut was made to produce lots of blood, the more the better. Wiping it off would mean wiping off her poor son's efforts. However, seeing Jin Fengju's eyes, it was as though the man had seen through everything, she could not help the guilty feeling in her heart as she weakly said, "Indeed, this humble woman… was scared stupid, wuwuwu…"

A sudden commotion from the outside interrupted this act and in came Madam Jiang, Jiang Wanying and a few others. Seeing Jin Fengju on site, Madam Jiang went white with fury and she viciously said, "Do you see it now? Just what kind of injury did Brother Yi receive? You always say they are sensible children. Pei! Blood always tells, aren't they just like their cheap and vulgar mother? Starting fights over the smallest slights, is this the behaviour of a noble? They must not have the guts to do this until you brought them in. Now look, with you favouring that side, they are all of them becoming more and more lawless."

Jin Fengju's answer was an indifferent, "Do not be impatient, Mother. I have not yet investigated the matters properly…"

Concubine Xu suddenly jumped up to scream, "Lord Husband is too biased, what is there to investigate? Our Brother Yi is lying on the bed, bleeding from a wound and yet Lord Husbands still wants to talk about investigating matters properly? Did our Brother Yi run over and offer to have his head beaten in? Good, good, good, looks like us mother and child no longer have any standing in this family. If Lord Husband is not going to obtain justice for us, I shall go and find that cheap seedling myself. I'm going to hit him head-on and ask just what kind of backing he has? What does he have that allows him to recklessly flaunt himself like this?"

She cried and screamed, her hands tearing at her hair like a mad woman. Jiang Wanying, Madam Jiang, Huo'shi and the rest of the women were inwardly pleased with her performance. Suddenly, Jin Fengju shouted, "Presumptuous! Who taught you to make a fuss like this? I am still here, where are all your feminine virtues? Do you even know what this place is? Be quiet."

It was very rare for him to become this angry. His suddenly loud voice shocked Xu'shi to silent fear. She should only cry silently on the side, her anguish making her face bitter and swollen. Jin Fengju gave her a disgusted look and said to Jin Ming, "Invite Second Madam over, bring Changfeng too."

As the person closest to the Young Marquis, Jin Ming understood that matters have blown up quite a bit and hurried off to Elegant Mansion.

Meanwhile, Jiang Wanying helped Madam Jiang into a chair. Though she wore a sad expression on her face, she was secretly happy. She thought: I have not wasted a year's worth of time planning and hinting for them to make a move. Clearly, these women could not bear seeing Fu'shi in Elegant Mansion and made their move. Isn't this a most wonderful flare-up? The only downside was that this crude tactic would not escape Cousin's eyes. However, this downside was no loss either. If this tactic could remove the annoying Xu'shi and Jin Zhenyi, I would consider it an acceptable win. After all, I never expect to kill two birds with one stone. Once Xu'shi is gone, I can slowly clean up Fu Qiuning at my leisure.

Even in her dreams, Concubine Xu never imagined that she would be slowly ground down to become a useful knife through various means by Jiang Wanying for close to half a year. There was nothing but delight in her heart as she thought: The children at school all have their stories in line. Humph, I want to see just how you mother and child plan to argue this matter? As the saying goes, there is no way to argue against a hundred mouths. Haha… Fu Qiuning, want me to let you have Lord Husband's favour? Pei! What are you? Just a shu-born girl. Jiang Wanying may be an incompetent fool, but I refuse to let you rampage about.

Jin Fengju sat in a chair, slowly sipping at his tea. No one could see through his thoughts. However, it did not look like he was particularly worried about the bedridden Jin Zhenyi. Madam Jiang's heart was tangled in knots. She had no idea whether this was part of Jiang Wanying's secret schemes since it was not aimed solely against Fu'shi. It's best if this scheme could drive Fu Qiuning away, but looking at her son's expression she could not help the worry brewing in her heart again. She thought: Surely even Fengju would not throw away his own son over that Fu'shi, right? If so, do not blame me for bringing the Old Master in to attain justice for the family.

While she was still thinking hard, having completely forgotten that her beloved son had already thrown a pair of twins away once, someone brought news that Fu Qiuning had arrived with Jing Changfeng and Jin Changjiao. Jin Fengju said, "Let them in." The curtain lifted and Fu Qiuning stepped through, holding Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao hands.

After they greeted Madam Jiang and Jin Fengju, Jin Fengju noticed that Jiang Wanying was seated next to Madam Jiang, so he pointed to the spot next to him and indifferently, "Sit, ba." Xu'shi looked like she wanted to say something, so he glared at her, making Xu'shi swallow her words back.

After another glance around the room, Jin Fengju turned to the maid next to Concubine Xu, Bai Lu. "You, go and call all the servants to gather at the courtyard. Not a single person is allowed to stand near this house." He flashed a glance at the maids beside Madam Jiang and Jiang Wanying and spoke in a grave voice, "Unrelated people should all leave."

As the servants retreated, timid Cui'shi, seeing that a battle of sorts was going to take place also made to leave but Jin Fengju said, "All of you stay here and witness this until the end. Lest someone say that I am biased and unjust."

Thus, Cui'shi, Lesser Concubine Yue Lan, Cai Lian and Bi Yu stayed behind and stood silently behind Jiang Wanying.

Jin Feng lifted the [a] teacup in his hand aloft in the air. [b] All the better to create an aura of inexplicable importance, impartiality and increasing his coolness points, thought Fu Qiuning absently. This was not her first inner court confrontation. It would be interesting to see how Jin Changfeng would do under such pressure. Right now, with Jin Fengju so heavily biased towards her and the worst fallout for them all was being sent back to Night Breeze Pavilion, this was the best time for Jin Changfeng to make his mistakes. It would do the twins good to see just how shameless and dirty inner court politics was. This was the payment they all have to make so that Jin Fengju could enjoy himself more conveniently.

At any rate, as Jin Fengju held his cup 'o tea aloft, he looked gravely at Jin Changfeng and said in a dramatically soft voice, "How long did you kneel at school?"

"To reply Father, it was not long, two hours." Jin Changfeng answered in a solemn voice. Although his head was lowered, his posture remained upright, his little chest perfectly straight and steady. Madam Jiang felt like she was in a trance as she stared at Jin Changfeng. She could not help but see traces of her son on the boy. Fengju always did have that habit of speaking with his chest perfectly straight. Therefore, she could not help but glance over at Jin Fengju.

"Two hours could not be considered short either. Your knees must be all bruised. There's no need for you to kneel anymore. No matter the reason, it is wrong for you to strike first, understand?" Jin Fengju was still speaking in that neither hurried nor leisurely tone. Xu'shi's hatred caused her to grind her teeth so much that she nearly cracked them. However, seeing his cool expression, she could not muster up the courage to act out again.

"Why did you hit beat your younger brother?" Jin Fengju finally reached the important bit of questioning. Xu'shi was brimming with eagerness and relief. She had been waiting for this moment. She thought: Say it, say it! Say anything! I already have a bunch of witnesses just sitting here waiting for your to step wrong.

However, to her surprise, Jin Changfeng did not speak.

Jin Fengju also did not appear to be annoyed by the lack of answers. Instead, he repeated the question, only to see Jin Changfeng drop to his knees suddenly and said, " This son is at fault. Please punish this one. There is no reason."

"That's nonsense," Jin Fengju raised his eyes and gave Jin Changfeng a look. "Is this what your mother teaches you? To hit people for no reason? If that is how she educates you, there is no need for you to remain in Elegant Mansion."

[b] Here it is, Fu Qiuning thought: The ultimate threat. Do as I say or I will take away your most precious thing. To think that Jin Fengju would do this to a child. Then again, he had already abandoned that child not once, but twice. My dear gentle son, how will you handle this?

As expected, Jin Changfeng's expression changed. His little fists suddenly clenched tight. After a long time, he finally said quietly, "That's… this son was angry at Brother Zhenyi for his teasing. After enduring for so long, I could not endure it anymore and… hit him today. Would Father please punish this son."

"En, that is a slightly more plausible reason," Jin Fengju nodded slowly. Then, he asked, "What did you use to hit your younger brother?"

"Inkstone." This time, Jin Changfeng did not hesitate.

"Do you know how badly you hurt your brother?" Jin Fengju's voice grew harsh. Concubine Xu's eyes suddenly started shooting sparks.

"Yes, this son… hit brother's head and a large bump appeared," Jin Changfeng continued to speak in that serious voice. Naturally, he would never admit to Jin Fengju that he did not regret striking Jin Zhenyi, or that the sight of that bump growing before his very eyes caused the building annoyance stuffing up his heart to dissipate.

[1] 舍不得孩子套不着狼 The original Chinese idiom is 舍不得鞋子套不住狼, "You can't catch the wolf if you won't spare your shoes (i.e. run so much until your shoes wear out)" but because in Jin Chinese slang, "鞋子" "shoes" are called "孩子" "children", the idiom got corrupted along the way and became what it is now.

[a] Text adjustments: The author seems very determined to make readers very sure that JFJ is very, very, clever derr in action. Unlike FQN who was bestowed with loooong TED Talks, JFJ showed his suaveness through actions. Things like: 'somewhat mockingly', 'inexplicable smile', and other Cold CEO aura related language.

It's tedious.

[b] There is a severe lack of Fu Qiuning's thoughts. Gumi fixed it.

I guess it's difficult to look cool if the woman you forced to hang out with you have private judgy thoughts.

Jin Fengju raised his eyebrows and glanced over at Xu'shi, who was already running towards where Jin Zhenyi was lying in bed. She shrieked angrily, "Still dare to lie? Look at this huge cut, look at all this blood. It is still bleeding even now! Do you imagine that you could conceal this kind of injury with your pathetic lies?! You almost killed our Brother Yi! Luckily you are only nine-years-old now, I fear what would have happened if you are eleven or twelve-years-old and slightly stronger, Brother Yu would probably be dead by now."

Jin Changfeng suddenly panicked, he leapt to his feet, or tried to. His bruised knees wobbled with pain, but he ignored his own pain to point at Jin Zhenyi and shouted, "Th-that's a lie! I never hit brother's head till he bled. The worse was a large bump."

[a] He turned anxious eyes at Fu Qiuning who stared back serenely at him. He remembered Mother's words about this being a 'flawed scheme' and that 'it will all be fine'. In short, Mother wants me to handle this on my own, to prove that I have the skill to survive in the treacherous inner court. I have been enduring for a long time, but still ended up falling into a 'flawed trap'. For Mother and Sister, I must be more intelligent about this.

[a] He looked around the room, at an anxious Jin Changjiao and finally settled his gaze on his stern and aloof father. He lowered his gaze and said, "Father, this child threw the inkstone to hit Younger Brother Zhenyi on the arm. Unexpectedly, when he tried to dodge it, the inkstone struck his head instead. At that time, no blood was seen, only a large growing bump. This child would ask Jin Zhuan to testify for me-"

"Pei, that's your follower. Naturally, he will help you lie. If Lord Husband doesn't believe me, ask the other children. I don't believe that there is someone in this estate who can cover the sky with only their hand and buy everyone's favour!" As she spoke, she turned her vicious gaze towards Fu Qiuning.

However, [b] Fu Qiuning was busy looking at Jin Changfeng calmly. The boy gazed back, took strength in her steadiness and continued, [a] "This child would ask Jin Zhuan to testify for me, but he was not there when I threw the inkstone."

Jin Fengju did not [c] appear to be moved by Jin Changfeng's calm reply. Instead, he looked at Jin Zhenxuan and said lightly, "Zhenxuan, come here. You tell us what happened."

Jiang Wanying's heart tightened, fearing that her son would be implicated in this matter with a bad answer, she began to panic and hurriedly said, "How could a young child bear such serious interrogation? Here I was, thinking to send Xuan'er out. Perhaps, Lord Husband could call for some of the other children from the school and question them. I do believe that would give us a clearer tale of what happened."

Jin Fengju snorted, stretched out his hand to Jin Zhenxuan, and said in a serious voice, "How can my son, the son of Jin Fengju, fear this bit of confrontation? Come, Zhenxuan. Come here and tell father exactly what happened."

Jin Zhenxuan walked very slowly to the centre of the floor where Jin Changfeng was being questioned. He glanced over at Jin Zhenyi, still motionless in bed, then at Jin Changfeng once before bowing his head like a little adult to say, "Replying to Father's words, at that time, the teacher allowed us time to go outside and play. This son felt that the school ground was a little noisy and sat under a large tree with a book. Later, this son heard shouting, but did not think too much of it. By the time this son learned of this matter, Brother Zhenyi had already been carried away. Therefore, from the beginning to the end, this son is unclear about what had happened."

Jin Fengju looked at the six-year-old boy for a long time. Finally, he revealed a small smile and nodded, "Is that so, ah? Good. Xuen'er may go outside and play now." He did not question Jin Changfeng any longer. Instead, he lifted his head and asked, "Is the imperial physician still not here yet?"

Jin Ming said, "To answer Master, he has not… ah, he's here, he's here, he has just crossed the courtyard doors."

Jin Fengju said to Madam Jiang: "Elder Madam, Qiuning, Wanying, all of you go into the inner room. Let the imperial physician look at Zhenyi's injury first."

Madam Jiang's heart drummed. She had always felt that her son's gaze was cold and penetrating enough to chill people to the bones. She glanced over at Xu'shi, thinking: There's no doubt about it. She had to be the one behind this scheme. It's just… it all looks so flawless, so why is Fengju so ruthless? Is he that sure that she is in the wrong? Had he seen something?

Madam Jiang had always known that her son was clever. It was something that she had always been very proud of, to give birth to such a wonderfully clever and outstanding son was her greatest achievement in life.

As for Xu'shi, she could not help the nervous thumping of her heart. After all, Jin Zhenyi's head injury was caused by her to rouse Jin Fengju's sympathy and provoke his anger against those cheap brats. She never wanted to seek a physician or even wash the blood off Jin Zhenyi's face until she had accomplished her goal.

Uneasiness suffused her heart, and she grew even more anxious. Suddenly, a cheerful voice resounded in the air, causing her to jump. [d] However, it was merely the imperial physician giving his greetings to the Young Marquis. Fu Qiuning calmly held Jin Changfeng and [e] Jin Changjiao's hands to her lap, patting them absent-mindedly as the drama continued sight unseen in the other room. [f]

Xu'shi's face had turned white. She was seated at the edge of her seat, looking as though she wanted to bolt out of her chair and into the other room. [g] As for Madam Jiang and Jiang Wanying, a dawning realisation was coming over them.

Sure enough, Imperial Doctor Li's voice outside continued to echo cheerfully from the next room, "Just a little wound. Nothing serious. In the future, do keep the boy away from sharp tools like knives and awls. The boy is still young after all. Fortunately, it is only a small cut. If you happen to hurt your eye or something, well, that's no joking matter."

Jin Fengju said, "The injury is caused by a knife? Imperial Physician Li, you are saying that this is not caused by an inkstone or something similar?"

For a while, silence filled the air. After what felt like a long while later, Imperial Physician Li's voice carried over to the other room again. "The corner of the boy's head is red and swollen. This must be the injury caused by a thrown inkstone. Goodness, school children are really naughty nowadays. I do believe that when Lord Liang's two grandsons fought an inkstone was also thrown. The injury was much heavier than this. The poor boy was bruised and bleeding.

As for this little bump, I assure you it is nothing. It's just brothers fooling around with each other. This young man is quite unfortunate, not only was he struck by an inkstone, but was cut by a knife too. Tsk tsk. Even so, the Young Marquis may be at ease. A basic herbal dressing should do the trick. Change the dressing at the end of each day for seven days. It should fully recover in half a month. Not even a scar will remain, this official guarantee it."

This old Imperial Physician appeared to be the cheerful type. It was unclear whether it was because he was trying to set the child at ease or establish a closer relationship with Jin Fengju. Regardless of the reason, there were many keen listeners. Within the inner room, Xu'shi was so frightened that her legs went soft. If she had not been holding onto a chair, she would have collapsed to the floor. It was unclear when she had gotten to her feet.

Jin Fengju and the chatter Imperial Physician Li spoke a little more, but not a word entered Xu'shi's head. She only knew that she was finished. Recalling the coldness and mockery emanating from Jin Fengju's eyes, she knew she was finished. She finally understood what a foolish thing she had done.

When Imperial Physician Li was finally sent away, the previously lively outer room was suddenly silent but for the soft rhythmic tapping of a fan against the table.

Madam Jiang glanced at Xu'shi, sighed, and took the lead in walking out, followed by Fu Qiuning, Jiang Wanying and others.

"What else do you have to say?" Jin Fengju looked at Xu'shi, who was the last to walk out. She looked like she barely had the strength to hold herself up as Jin Fengju's cold words pierced her weakened body.

"Father, Mother has nothing to do with this, this child only… this child was dissatisfied with Elder Brother being able to enter the clan school, so… so that's why this child thought of this scheme." The previously dying, bedbound Jin Zhenyi sat up violently. He jumped out of bed and scuttled over to kneel beside Jin Fengju.

"You thought up this scheme?" Jin Fengju's gaze turned steely. "So young, but already so treacherous? Moreover, you brought a knife to school? Do you think that I am unaware of the school rules that forbade any sort of sharp weapons? That only wooden swords for martial arts practices are allowed?"

Jin Zhenyi's shoulders shrank. However, he remained determined as he loudly declared, "Yes, this child had been planning this scheme for a long time. So… Father, please punish this child. Mother had nothing to do with it."

"Planned this scheme for a long time?" Jin Fengju sneered, "If so, tell me, how did you manage to finally anger your elder brother today? Why don't you tell me now."

Jin Zhenyi froze in place. He opened his mouth, but nothing came out.

Jin Fengju cold said, "Zhenyi, you have only this one opportunity. If I find out that you lied to me, do not blame father for being discourteous to your mother. I shall remind you now, your elder brother is not someone who could not hold back his anger. Do not think that I do not know how you usually ill-treat your own elder brother. Therefore, I am curious. Exactly how did you manage to provoke him into striking you this time?"

Jin Zhenyi suddenly dropped his gaze as he stammered, "I- I-"

"Lord Husband, Brother Yi had nothing to do with it, it is all due to this humble woman's foolishness. This humble woman had coveted the favour bestowed on Madam and brewed a scheme out of a jealous heart. Lord Husband is wise, this had nothing to do with Brother Yi, ah!" Xu'shi suddenly threw herself forward and begin to beat her head against the floor in front of the Jin Fengju.

"At least you have not completely lost your conscience as a mother," Jin Fengju stared at her coldly. "Brother Yi has not yet reached his seventh birthday, what could he know? He could only repeat the words 'dissatisfied with Feng'er', but then, who was the one speaking such vile words into his ears all this time? A mother like you who does not care to teach the children harmony, friendship and unity, but instead sow discord and fan the flames. For the sake of framing Qiuning and her son, you did not even spare your own child. What qualifications do you have to be the mother of my children?"

"Lord Husband, it is all this humble woman's fault, this humble woman knows she has sinned and begs Lord Husband to forgive this foolish concubine. This humble woman would never do such a thing again, would never dare such a thing…" Xu'shi was banging her head against the floor again, hard and rhythmic as though she was pounding garlic with her head with tears flowing down her face.

Jin Fengju's stern words and Xu'shi's actions nearly frightened Jin Zhenyi to death. Zhenyi, who had a propensity for bullying and hooligan-like behaviour ever since he was a child, what deep ideas could he hold in his head? Seeing his parents like this, he could not help but panic. From his kneeling position by Jin Fengju, he cried loudly and declared, "Father! It is all this child's fault. This child should never have called Elder Brother's mother a bad woman, a slut. This child should not have said that the Chastity Proving Dust was because of other people…"

Pa!

Jin Fengju slapped the folding fan against the table so hard that it broke. The sturdy [1] Eight Immortal Table actually trembled, proving the force under his hand. Even so, Jin Fengju was not a master in martial arts and the table managed to not fall apart.

"You shameless woman!"

Jin Fengju roared. Not a single person in the room, including Fu Qiuning, had ever seen him exhibit such ferocity before. The women all shrank back, even Madam Jiang was clutching her chest. [h] Fu Qiuning was mostly surprised, but, she reasoned: Considering Jin Fengju's recent behaviour, he must be reusing the 'loud and dramatic fury' that had been so effective against Minister Chu on Xu'shi. Well, since it worked in court, it should work here too. Furthermore, it allows the man to exercise his need for drama, so it makes sense for him to be dramatic now. Should I aid his performance by clutching my chest like Mother-in-law too?

"I can no keep you here anymore," Jin Fengju was so furious that his entire body trembled with anger. "A scourge like you have no place in this estate!" He raised his voice even more and shouted, "Jin Ming! Jin Ming! Send two matrons and two older maids in. Escort her to the village. From now on, she is not allowed to set a single foot upon the Jing Dukedom. You hear me?!"

Jin Ming thought to himself: What? You want me to do this errand too? [i] Isn't it the job of the madams of the house to arrange all of this? Second Madam Ying or Madam Jiang, or, heck, even Second Madam Ning?

However, since the Master had already declared it out loud, there was really no other choice. Fortunately, he could delegate the matter to Cai Lian and Bi Yu, who knew the inner court better and knew which matron and older maids to call upon to perform the job.

"Lord Husband, forgive me. This humble woman would never dare again… Master…" Xu'shi grabbed hold of Jin Fengju's trousers, crying and pleading most pathetically. Already dishevelled from her acting earlier, she looked even more miserable now as she sobbed. Jin Zhenyi and Jin Xiunan were so frightened that they, too, started to cry.

Fu Qiuning frowned. She would never consider herself any kind of Virgin Mary heroine, but it was too sad to see this family crying like that. Moreover, the children are still so young, how were they supposed to survive in this treacherous place without an overprotective mother? After some thought, she stepped forward to say, "Lord Husband, this humble woman is not speaking on behalf of Concubine Xu, but what of the two children? Perhaps Lord Husband could overlook the matter just this once. It is likely that Concubine Xu had learnt her lesson and would never attempt such a thing again. Perhaps it is enough to severely punish her instead of sending her away."

Jin Fengju turned an expressionless face towards her and said coldly, "You are not allowed to intervene in this matter either. The Duke of Jing Estate cannot tolerate such a vicious and poisonous woman." He turned the cold gaze over Madam Jiang as well as the rest of the women in the room. Then, he said slowly, "In the future, should anyone think to cause trouble, whether believing the east wind will overwhelm the west or vice versa, think again. Xu'shi's fate will be your fate. If you are still not convinced, go ahead and try my patience."

Then, with a flick of his sleeves, he strode away under their stares. Madam Jiang looked like she wanted to call out to him, but seeing his livid face, she paused and kept quiet.

"Goodness, here I thought that with my Elder Sister's special status in Lord Husband's heart, you would certainly be able to move his heart so long as you pleaded with him. To think that things would end up like this. Aih, I'm sure my dear Elder Sister did her very best. Lord Husband must be truly, truly, too angry today." Jiang Wanying looked at the door where Jin Fengju had departed with a sad expression.

However, who would believe it? She must be secretly jumping with joy in her heart.

[1a] Moreover, her overly sweet words…

[2a] Fu Qiuning glanced over at the two children who were still crying in a corner. She could already see Jin Zhenyi glaring at her with bitter eyes. There was really no need for Jiang Wanying to work overtime and deliberately plant those remarks to provoke these kids. Look, the cannon fodder was already preparing to throw himself at her. Poor Xu'shi, poor Jiang Wanying. It is clear that Jiang Wanying must have somehow instigated this, and would target her next. It is the only logical thing to do.

Fu Qiuning sighed. [2b] She should at least do the decent thing and have Jiang Wanying remember Jin Fengju would be actively watching the harem now. If only for her sake. She gently said, "Little Sister, have you not heard Young Marquis's words? Are you trying to instigate the children against me so quickly after their mother had been taken away?" There, that would warn both the children and Jiang Wanying. She cast another glance at the children once again. Well, the boy still had that fierce look in his eyes. He would be trouble in the future. [2c] She had better warn Feng'er to be careful. That child might believe he had nothing to lose and attack indiscriminately…

As Jiang Wanying choked on her words, she took Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao's hands and left the inner room of Calling Crane Pavilion. [2c] What happened to the people here had nothing to do with her. Her priority had always been to protect the twins first and herself next, and she would continue to do so.

In the end, Jin Fengju decided to stick with his ruthless decision. The next day, news of Xu'shi being sent to the countryside reached the Elegant Mansion. All that was left within Calling Crane Pavilion were the two helpless children and their plethora of maids and servants. Fu Qiuning looked out the window at the falling rain, recalling how treacherous the noble family was. She wondered, just how many women have lost their youths in this place, how many bodies were buried…

"Mother, what do you think will happen to Brother Zhenyi and Sister Xiunan?"

After the incident at school and the subsequent matter at Calling Crane Pavilion, the school was closed for two days for matters to calm down. Therefore, Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao were with Fu Qiuning. They were seated with books on their laps but were now looking at Fu Qiuning with worried expressions.

[3] Fu Qiuning wanted to reassure them, but in her heart, she already knew what the most likely outcome would be. Though he would likely deny it, Jin Fengju was ultimately a selfish man. A selfish man born in this era with an overblown sense of superiority over his peers. Now that she had fallen into his hands, there was only one logical outcome for this matter. It was probably also why he had so decisively kicked Xu'shi out instead of letting the matter drag on.

Finally, she said, "I'm sure your father will arrange it."

Jin Changjiao lowered her head and said in a sullen voice, "I'm afraid Father would send them here. Back then, when my brother and I had nowhere to go, we were sent here."

Fu Qiuning [3] looked at her, "Will you be very angry if Brother Zhenyi and Sister Xiunan are sent here?"

[3a] The twins exchanged looks. Jin Changfeng said, "Brother Zhenyi and Sister Xiunan must hate Mother to death. Although it is not our fault, Concubine Mother Xu was sent to the village because of us. So, they must hate us."

[3b] "Indeed, they must hate us…"

Just then, the sound of footsteps was heard and Yu Jie's voice stammered, "Y-young Marquis is here?"

She sounded shocked. [3a] Fu Qiuning sighed. Before the twins could ask why their mother would suddenly sigh like that, Jin Fengju had already thrown open the door curtain and stepped into the room with two dejected children in tow.

[3a] Ah.

[3a] Good thing she had zero expectations for this man.

[2c] Jin Changfeng and Jin Changjiao were not so restrained. They both jumped up and stared at the two children, Jin Zhenyi and Jin Xiunan, in shock.

As expected, Jin Fengju's thick face came into play and he loudly declared, "Aunt Yu, Yu Jie, arrange rooms for Brother Yi and Sister Nan. Let them choose if they want to be closer to the main rooms or the study. Once they have picked the rooms, I shall arrange for their things to be sent over. Feng'er and Jiao'er, go with your brother and sister to pick out their rooms. You are more familiar with the Elegant Mansion than they are."

[2d] Fu Qiuning watched with cold eyes as her maids jumped to obey their true master. The twins hesitated between obeying their father and not wanting to upset her. She had to say 'Go with them' before they moved to lead their younger brother and sister away with the maids.

[2d] Jin Fengju was beaming and smiling all over the place, talking loudly and giving instructions as though he owned the place. Which he in fact did. What could she do but sit in place as he rearranged her life as he pleased?

As for Jin Fengju, he thought that Fu Qiuning's angry face would be very cute and was very pleased that he was not kicked out as yet. This must mean that Qiuning is not really angry at him, right? Since he was in the wrong, he did not insist on being served tea, and poured himself a cup instead as he settled himself and said, "Are you not going to ask what is going on?"

[3c]

"Should I?"

The smile faltered for a moment, but rallied up again as he grandly declared, "I only wish to foster Zhenyi and Xiunan under your name."

"I see."

Jin Fengju laughed and said, "Are you not going to ask for the reason?"

"Will the Lord Husband take the children away after telling the reason?"

Jin Fengju paused, he coughed awkwardly before saying, "No, but-"

"Then, there is no need to know the reason."

"H-how can that be? My Qiuning is angry. So, of course, I must tell you the reason," Jin Fengju's smile had grown in wattage as he tried to coax her. Suddenly, he sighed and went over to strike a pose by the window.

Fu Qiuning resigned herself to another solo performance by this narcissist.

[3c]

"My dear Qiuning, I know what you must be thinking. Although on the surface you do not look like a suitable choice, but indeed! Indeed, I have no other choice! The most suitable person, the Old Ancestor, is already very old, the Elder Madam had always been weak in health and could never bear the noise of children's play. Of the rest…"

"The rest of your wives, concubines and bed partners," Fu Qiuning helpfully supplied.

Jin Fengju coughed and raised his voice, "Of the others! Wanying, well, surely you should know? Xu'shi is jealous and foolish, but without instigation, she would not have dared to act thus." He closed his speech with a meaningful stare.

[2e] Fu Qiuning just looked at him tiredly.

Jin Fengju suddenly felt embarrassed. Unsure how to make things better, he could only run his mouth and continue to babble, "Needless to say, Huo'shi is not as good as Wanying. At least Wanying would be thoughtful on the surface, though no one could say what would happen behind closed doors. I fear that these two children would follow in the footsteps of their mother and… if they were with Huo'shi, they would be openly despised.

Cui'shi is gentle and weak and cannot discipline Zhenyi. There's Concubine Yue Lan, who is in a similar position as Cui'shi. Would Zhenyi and Xiunan be willing to obey them? Even if I were to raise her status from Lesser Concubine to Concubine, they would still treat her as a lesser concubine for a long time. Therefore, it is through much deliberation that I came to the conclusion that you are my only choice. You were able to educate Feng'er and Jiao'er to such great talents. Zhenyi and Xiunan are both still very young, I can only depend on you."

[2f] "… …" she had already anticipated all of this, but it was somehow very, very exhausting to hear it trotted out before her by this man. Finally, she said duly, "I understand, this is the most convenient solution for you. Therefore, I, as the person whose food, clothing and shelter are all provided by you, should accept this as my duty."

[2g] Silence reigned for a long time. Fu Qiuning wondered how this man was going to justify his actions this time. She was vaguely interested in a detached way. If this was a drama, she would be shoving popcorn into her mouth as she waited for the Male Lead to cook up an excuse for his behaviour.

A long time later, Jin Fengju reached out to take Fu Qiuning's hands and leaned forward to say earnestly, "Qiuning, let me tell you something from the bottom of my heart. If you had been someone like Wanying and Xu'shi, I would not have allowed you to stay till today. What I like, and love, is the current you now. Gentle, peaceful, quiet, kind but firm, benevolent but not stupid. To my mind, you are like a beautiful jewel appearing in a pile of stones. How can I not fall madly in love with this priceless gem? You may call me ruthless, but I am only ruthless to those with bad intentions. If Xu'shi had not harboured sinister thoughts, I would not have gone this far.

You must not blame me, and think of my difficulties as well. Our family is great and prominent, aside from wind and rain at court, I must also guard against other ministers. The higher I climb, the thinner the ice. While I strive at court, the home is not peaceful. With someone like Xu'shi, the best way to deal with such a problem is to cut away the rot and allow the wound to heal. Were I to keep her, just think, how much more trouble could she cause? My two children would also be brought up by such a scheming person to be cunning and evil. I definitely do not wish to see such a thing happen. You understand?"

Fu Qiuning looked at Jin Fengju's beautiful eyes, which had receded from the usual unfathomable depth, leaving only a piece of honesty and clarity. She sighed a long time, nodded and said, "I have pity on the hearts of the parents in the world. I understand the difficulties of Lord Husband. But, Do you think you can educate your two children by handing them over to me? They are not Feng'er and Jiao'er, and they don't know why they hate me, how do you want me to teach them?"

Jin Fengju said with a smile: "Qiuning is a wonderful woman with unparalleled intelligence. Feng'er and Jiao'er have their own education methods. If you want to come to Zhen Yi and Xiu Nan, they naturally have another education method. I will also spend more time with you How about teaching them by the way?"

Fu Qiuning frowned, thought for a while and suddenly said: "Master, it's not impossible for me to accept two children, but there is one thing, if in the future, the Xu family is settled in the Zhuangzi, and the children need her, I hope Grandpa was able to loosen his tone and bring her back, even if it was to give her a yard. From now on, Grandpa will never see her again. At any rate, let the two children visit their mothers from time to time. I will not hide it from Grandpa. When the time comes, this credit I want to embrace it, if you agree, I will take over."

Jin Fengju thought for a while, and said: "That's fine, I'm afraid that even if Mrs. Xu comes back, she won't have the tenacity you had in Night Breeze Pavilion. At that time, I will give you the power of managing the house." Some, otherwise she won't be able to survive."

"Stop…stop now." Fu Qiuning quickly crossed his hands, and said angrily, "Okay, the more I talk about it, the more I'm in charge of the house? I think I'm not deep enough in the muddy water right now. What? To take care of the Xu family, it only costs some money, it's all from you, why can't I take care of it? Why do you need the power of the family? You don't want to use this excuse to drag me into the inner house to fight."

Jin Fengju said with a smile: "Do you think you can still get away? In the past few incidents, which one did you provoke others? What was the result? Which time did you stay out of it?"

Fu Qiuning glared at him bitterly, and said with a sneer, "Lord Husband still has the face to say, if it weren't for you, I really wouldn't have attracted all the attention. Speaking of which, I really don't know how to thank you."

Jin Fengju coughed and said with a grin: "You and my husband, why are you so polite? Come, my husband pours a cup of tea for the lady himself, as a thank you for your help, please." As he said, he poured a cup of tea, He held it in both hands and handed it to Qiuning.

Fu Qiuning sneered and said: "Come on, I don't dare to work, Lord, for no reason, so many errands are spread on my head, it's still not good, if I drink the tea you poured by yourself today, I don't know what I should do in the future How can you put your heart and soul to work, I'm afraid that throwing your head and blood may not satisfy the master."

Jin Fengju knew that she was really annoyed with herself in her heart, what else did she not understand on weekdays? This woman is the one who likes to be leisurely and doesn't like to worry. In Night Breeze Pavilion six years, not to mention being poor, she lived a leisurely life. Although she is well-clothed and well-fed now, she has caused such troubles for her, no wonder she is annoyed. When these two children entered the Elegant Mansion, how to educate them is one thing, but Madam Jiang, Jiang Wanying, Cui'shi, Huo'shi and others, they don't know how to be jealous and hate them.

In all fairness, Jiang Wanying and the others would not be willing to take in Jin Zhenyi and Jin Xiunan, but if they didn't want to, they didn't want to. If they pushed out the door and didn't want it, they could pick up whoever they liked, but Jin Fengju sent the two children away at once. Fengyalou, their hearts can't be balanced, what does this mean? It means that that woman is virtuous and virtuous and omnipotent in my mind, isn't it? How could these women Jin Fengju tolerate such a woman by his side.

It's just that the hatred in my heart is hatred in my heart, and I dare not raise any objections on the surface. Just kidding, where is Xu's fate now? This master is really kind and amiable on weekdays. Terrible and unfeeling. Therefore, Jiang Wanying, Cui Shi, Huo Shi and others couldn't help but feel awe in their hearts, but after thinking about it, they felt that these were all the thunderbolt methods used by Jin Fengju to protect Fu Qiuning, so they hated them even more, needless to say.

Besides, when Jin Fengju saw that Fu Qiuning was determined not to take his own tea, he just pushed the tea beside Fu Qiuning and said with a smile, "Qiuning, you drink this tea. I'll tell you a good thing. If you don't drink, I won't talk about it."

Fu Qiuning ignored him, just took the half-embroidered sachet and tied it with flowers, and said without raising his head, "Can you still have good things? Even if they are good things, they have nothing to do with me. The only thing I am happy about now is The good thing is that you take the two children out."

"Qiuning, don't be so cruel. You don't want them to be in trouble at such a young age, do you? It's a good thing. Don't you know the rumors that have been raging in the capital recently?" Jin Fengju coughed, seeing that Fu Qiuning was still unmoved, I couldn't help crying secretly in my heart, thinking to myself what kind of woman did I find as a wife? Women were always curious about these things, but she ignored them. Because of helplessness, he raised his voice and said: "It's about the follow-up of brother-in-law's concubine who is pregnant with a child. Don't you really want to listen? If you don't listen, I won't talk about it."

When he said this, Fu Qiuning raised his head in doubt and said, "Little concubine? What's the matter? That woman has already become a concubine? When did it happen?"

Jin Fengju immediately rolled his eyes with a smile, pushed the cup of tea in front of Qiu Ning, and said with a chuckle: "It's a long story, and it's mixed with my tricks. You're about to drink the tea, let me tell you."

Fu Qiuning couldn't help being a little funny when he saw his jumping up and down, looking at her husband with almond-shaped eyes slightly, and said leisurely, "You said you were going to pour me tea, but the tea is cold now…" Before she could finish speaking, Jin Fengju said something else Not to mention, he splashed the tea in the cup on the ground with a "wow", poured another cup of hot tea back, and handed it to Qiuning with a giggle.

"You are a prodigal." Fu Qiuning looked at the water stains on the ground distressedly: "This is the Longjing from before tomorrow, who would be willing to drink it on weekdays? Because you are here today, and Yu Jie's hoof is so generous, you are good. Shake your hand and pour me a glass."

Jin Fengju coughed, never expecting his wife to be so frugal, just poured a cup of tea, not to mention the former Longjing, the more precious thing is not poured, but it made her so angry. But at this time, the conversation is intense. Although I don't go out these days, the methods I have used repeatedly can be called upside down. Such a proud story can't be told to others. Only the beautiful woman in front of me can be regarded as a confidant. Spit quickly.

Thinking of this, he grinned and pleaded: "Okay, I was wrong, what's the matter? It's just Longjing before Ming Dynasty. When I go back, I will bring you the tube of green snow from the West Lake that the emperor bestowed. It's really precious, the palace only gets five or six catties a year, even from the officials who oversee the tea gardens, those who pay tribute to our family on weekdays are only worth three to five taels, isn't that precious?"

Fu Qiuning thought to himself, what do I care about expensive tea and cheap tea? I just can't bear to see you, a rich man, wasting things. But he was also knowing that he no longer chased after him, just pursed his lips and said with a smile: "It seems that the master is in a hurry, even more anxious than me who listens to the story. It seems that it is really a proud work. That concubine Then listen carefully." While speaking, he took a sip from the teacup, then put it down, and couldn't help laughing: "It's really the tea that Grandpa poured himself, it tastes different when you drink it."

Jin Fengju saw her coquettish smile and felt that she loved her very much. It's strange to say that Fu Qiuning is the most indifferent person, in terms of charm and beauty, how different is it from Jiang Wanying and others? At most, it can only be described as dignified, but the more she is like this, occasionally she shows a little bit of joy or anger, which makes him feel that she is full of charm and really precious.

Because he immediately wanted to put his arms around Qiuning and tell her, but she broke away and said seriously: "Just sit on the couch and talk, it's broad daylight, and the rules in my Elegant Mansion are not so strict, once people come in and out at will I see, how sorry?"

When she said this, Jin Fengju was helpless, knowing that she cared for the servants very much, and would not easily punish the wrong ones, so the servants in the elegant building were more comfortable than elsewhere. Zizi is Zizi, but I have never seen them being arrogant because of being favored, otherwise there would be no need for Jin Fengju, Jin Ming, the most proud personal manager in front of the young master, would have taken care of it.

So he sat upright, tapped the table with a finger, and said solemnly: "Yes, my brother-in-law has already taken that prostitute as a concubine. Fortunately, the child is also safe. I think it will take another four or five months. It's time to give birth. The brother-in-law's heir is considered difficult among the princes. So far, there are only the second son left by the former princess and the fourth son born to the elder sister. If this concubine can add another boy to the prince, it would be great It's really what you want."

Fu Qiuning stayed for a while, then murmured: "My sister is really pitiful, I don't know if this woman is a deep-hearted woman, although my sister is also smart, there is no need to be afraid, but if she is really a sinister person, she will be troublesome after all." But I heard Jin Fengju said: "At present, it seems to be safe. I checked it secretly. I didn't pretend to be hanging on the beam before. You must know that it was a time when life was hanging by a thread. If the little maid goes a little later, her life will be in danger." It may not be able to be saved. So, I still look like a strong woman."

Fu Qiuning sighed and said, "If she is really such a stupid girl, she would be pitiful." After she finished speaking, she sneered, looked at Jin Fengju and said, "What kind of strong woman? If she sacrificed for you men, she would be a strong woman. Otherwise If you don't, you're a beauty, you don't know the general idea…"