That night, Wei Zheng got a fever and dazedly called out for her mother. Nurse Jin, who was looking after Wei Zheng, was flustered as she raised the alarm at Wei Kun's door, saying that she didn't know how serious it was. Wei Kun draped on a cloak with a dark green bamboo nodes pattern, and sent someone to invite a doctor that very night. After the doctor's examination, he said it was a simple cold, and to cover her with several quilts to warm her up, then he wrote a prescription. Drinking a bowl of medicine, Wei Zheng would be fine on the next day.

After seeing the doctor off, Wei Kun instructed the two maidservants by Wei Zheng's side, Yin Feng and Yin Lou to go and prepare the medicine according to the prescription. He waited for them to bring in the ready medicine, then personally fed it to Wei Zheng before leaving.

The next morning, just as the doctor had said, Wei Zheng's fever retreated. She was also more clear-headed.

Today was the first day for the tutor to give lessons. Originally, she had to go listen to Mr. Xue's lecture, but she actually wrapped herself in the quilt and didn't move a muscle. Yin Lou stood by her bed and called out a few times, but didn't get an answer all along. Yin Lou assumed she wasn't feeling well and that she hadn't recovered from the illness yet, so she ran to Wei Kun to ask for a day off on behalf of Wei Zheng. When he heard that, Wei Kun allowed her to attend the lectures starting tomorrow.

By the time Yin Lou returned, she was still lying motionlessly in bed.

Yin Lou thought she was sleeping, and didn't expect that as she moved closer, she would find her secretly wiping her tears under the quilt. She had cried so broken-heartedly, a big spot of the bedding under her body had been soaked through. Alarmed, Yin Lou stepped forward to call out gently: "Fifth Miss, you…"

Wei Zheng winced, grabbed the covers and pulled them over her head, wrapping herself even more tightly within, so that no one could see her.

Yin Lou worriedly fussed about at the bedside, wondering what was wrong with her. She rushed to call Nurse Jin and Yin Feng over, to consult them how to deal with the situation. Wei Zheng also didn't know, but her heart was in great pain and it was difficult to endure that stifling feeling. The little child didn't know how she should vent her mood, she only had this way of crying.

Wei Zheng had gone to Ginkgo courtyard yesterday, telling Madam Du about her grievances and causing Madam Du to curse at Wei Luo, 'that little wretch'. Earlier, she had been standing by the pond's edge, and if Wei Luo hadn't pushed her, she couldn't have possibly fallen in. Madam Du wanted to find Wei Kun to demand for an explanation and to scold Wei Luo while at it, yet she couldn't even catch a glimpse of Wei Kun's face… At that time she (Wei Zheng) was beside her, helplessly looking on as her mother was embarrassed. That mother who had always been up above, had suddenly fallen down in the mud, continuously asking the servants to let her see father… She watched, feeling a little sad, as she didn't want to let her mother be so submissive for her sake. She ran over to hold onto Madam Du's leg, saying: "Don't look for dad, mother, I don't want to see dad… It doesn't hurt anymore…"

What happened after?

Afterwards, Madam Du hugged her and cried for quite a long time. She could sense her mother's despair and helplessness. Madam Du's tears flowed down her cheeks and dripped down to her neck, so scalding it was scary. She was still young, and couldn't really understand her mother's feelings, but since her mother was crying, she also cried.

Why were they in this state now?

Madam Du spoke close to her ear: "It was Wei Luo, it was Wei Luo and her mother, who harmed us."

The sound of her voice was hypnotic as it entered her ear. She gradually stopped crying, and remembered Madam Du's words deep in her heart. Wei Luo caused their bad condition, Wei Luo made daddy not want mother… Mother said she couldn't go on being willful, she had to study and become smart, just like Wei Luo. Then dad will like her even better, and will let mother return from Ginkgo courtyard.

Wei Zheng had confined herself in bed all day, without eating or speaking, as if she had become a different person.

Jin Lu told Wei Luo about what had happened in Wei Zheng's room. Wei Luo had just come back from the venerable Mr. Xue's study room, and was preparing to have lunch. Listening, she uttered an 'Oh', and didn't give too big of a reaction. Pointing at the shredded chicken with mushrooms gruel on the table, she said: "Big sister Jin Lu, I also want to drink."

From early in the morning, she and Changhong had studied for half the day, so she was already hungry. The venerable Mr. Xue taught them to write characters, being extremely earnest and giving each of them close attention. She and Changhong didn't dare to slack off, as they followed in writing each stroke and each line. Her hand was sore after an entire morning of not putting it down. Having her meal was important, she didn't have any spare time to waste on irrelevant people.

Could Wei Zheng straighten out at long last? Honestly, she was somewhat looking forward to it.

If Wei Zheng kept being so stupid, then even if she won, she wouldn't have a sense of achievement.

It was better like this. Falling from a higher place made more impact, it should be several times more painful.

After several days, Wei Zheng was very peaceful, as if she had calmed down, as if reflecting on life. Thinking so much at her age was a truly difficult thing for her. She listened to the tutors' lessons distractedly, frequently absent-minded, causing the two tutors much dissatisfaction. In comparison, Wei Luo was a lot more obedient and sensible. She attended the lectures seriously. Adding on the little knowledge from her past life, her writing was also neat. The venerable Mr. Xue often praised Wei Luo in front of Wei Kun, saying she was smart and witty, lovable and sensible, very easy to like.

As a father, Wei Kun was naturally proud to hear these words.

Whenever Wei Luo was done with the day's lessons, he would call her over to the study and ask what she had earned today, and whether there was something she couldn't understand. Even Changhong didn't get this treatment, it was enough to notice how much Wei Kun cared for her. Sometimes Wei Luo would be too tired and unwilling to reply, so she would lie on his legs acting like a baby with a sweet and soft voice: "Ah Luo studies during the day, studies in the evening, too tired… Daddy look, my hand is swollen from writing today." As she spoke, she lifted her white and tender little hand in front of Wei Kun to let him see.

Wei Kun was next to the window, which let in the sun. Looking at the fingertips, they really appeared a little red, and he suddenly felt sorry for her. He took them in his hand and massaged them, "Alright, alright, Daddy won't ask. Since Ah Luo is the smartest, Daddy is at ease."

After this, Wei Kun didn't ask about Ah Luo's lesson.

Ever since he spoke those words on that day, Wei Kun was serious about looking after Wei Luo personally. Every day he would come back from the Imperial Academy in a hurry, and the first thing he would ask was 'How is the fourth miss today'. He found a lot of time to spend with Wei Luo, the little young lady was quite pampered. She didn't have a mother, so Wei Kun acted as both the father, and the mother. He couldn't bear to let her suffer any grievances again. The new dresses and skirts in Wei Luo's room were getting more and more. After changing clothes for the new season, the other misses in the residence all had only four sets, she alone had twelve sets, all paid for with Wei Kun's money. In addition to these, the snacks that the little young lady liked, the accessories, the toys…they weren't few. She had even more compared to other people.

Wei Kun knew Wei Luo liked amusements. Worried that she'd be unable to calm her heart and her restless thoughts, he set up a flower trellis behind Pine courtyard. Inside he planted orchids, chrysanthemums, Chinese peonies, Moutan peonies, and other flowers. He brought Wei Luo to water them every day. Watching them grow daily, he bragged that Ah Luo looked even better than these flowers.

The father and daughter pair's affections deepened with each passing day, so that even Changhong felt jealous: "Dad, don't always look for Ah Luo, Ah Luo won't have time to spend with me."

Wei Kun laughed heartily. Rubbing his head, he laughed at him.

Wei Zheng was silently watching from the side. Compared to before, she was a lot more peaceful, seemingly having grown up overnight. Her brain was active, different from her former clumsiness. For instance now, she ran over to ask with a smile: "Daddy, I like this pot of fine jade flower. Is it alright to gift it to me?"

If it was before, she would've surely kicked the flower pot to turn it over.

The fine jade flower was a white narcissus, each petal clear, sparkling and translucent, the fragrance overwhelmed the senses. This pot of fine jade flower should have already withered a month ago, but because Ah Luo had raised it well, it grew strong and the flowering was extended by a month. Now that Wei Zheng wanted it, Wei Kun naturally didn't immediately give it to her, saying instead: "This is the flower your fourth elder sister raised, you should ask her. If she agrees, the flower pot will be yours."

Wei Zheng turned her head to face Wei Luo. Her round apple face was all smiles as she asked: "Wei Luo, can you gift this flower pot to me?"

Wei Luo didn't want to gift it, since she had carefully tended to it for a very long time. Wei Zheng was unlikely to raise flowers. What if it got ruined? She slowly voiced an 'Oh', and spoke bluntly: "I can't, I also like this potted flower. I don't want to gift it to you. What to do?"

Wei Zheng pointed at the flower trellis behind her, "You have so many flowers… I only want a flower pot."

Probably because of Wei Zheng's pitiful appearance, Wei Kun's heart softened a little and wanted to persuade Wei Luo to gift this flower pot to her younger sister. Who knew that he had barely opened his mouth to say two words: "Ah Luo…"

Wei Luo titled her head to ask: "I have so many flowers, because I raised them together with daddy. You're saying you want me to give one now, what's the reason?"

Though her age was small, her desire to monopolize was very strong. Her own things belonged to her only, no one else was allowed to touch them. As her father, Wei Kun was clear about it. Hearing these words, he was naturally embarrassed to urge her again.

She didn't agree, and Wei Zheng definitely didn't have a good reason to demand it. Furthermore, looking at Wei Kun, it appeared that he wouldn't assist in making a decision. He stood to the side pretending to trim the flower branches, while sharpening his ears to eavesdrop.

Wei Zheng flattened her lips and mumbled: "I'm your younger sister… You can't give me one potted flower?"

So she knew she was the younger sister now?

Ah Luo blinked her eyes unconvinced, and went over to Wei Kun's side to pull on his sleeve, "Daddy, Wei Zheng said she was my younger sister, but how come I've never heard her call me elder sister?"

Wei Kun coughed and looked at Wei Zheng.

Wei Zheng's face flushed, this could be considered as shooting herself in the foot. She faltered for a long time, but eventually called out 'fourth elder sister'.

Wei Luo's lips blossomed in a smile. Finally showing mercy, she gave her a pot of fringed iris. This flower species wasn't uncommon, one could find it anywhere. Holding the flower pot, Wei Zheng was extremely annoyed at heart. Unwillingly and with no feeling, she muttered 'Thank you, big sister', then turned around to run into her own room.

After the weather transitioned to summer, it would quickly be time for the Dragon Boat Festival (May 5).

At present, besides gardening and fishing outside, Wei Luo liked to visit Mrs. Han's room the most. There were many strange and fantastic things in Mrs. Han's room. According to rumors, they were all secret recipes that she had created in the palace. Bottles and jars were spread all over the dressing table, this one for soft skin, that one to whiten the skin, and more that could turn the body fragrant… Of course, there were also many things intended for a female's intimate parts, but seeing Ah Luo's young age, Mrs. Han didn't explain them all to her.

Once Wei Luo completed the etiquette lessons for the day, she would come here to fiddle with the fragrant jade dew (Gyokuro) balm, trying this thing, touching that thing. Mrs. Han found it very rare for a child to be interested in these. At first she was amused, but eventually, whenever she created something new, she would pull Wei Luo along each time to try it out. Either keeping a pomander, or using an aromatic liquid to bathe with. These things didn't only contain flower petals, but also had a few medicinal herbs mixed in. They were beneficial for the body, and wouldn't harm a small child using them. However, in the short span of a month, Wei Luo's cheeks became even more tender than they originally were. Though they weren't lacking before, now it seemed as if water would squeeze out if they were pinched, rosy white, lustrous, and moist.

She was still only six years old. Once she grew up, who knew how attractive she would be.

Saying she was a young source of trouble wouldn't be an exaggeration.

A few days before the Dragon Boat Festival, Count Zhongyi's family paid a visit, also bringing Song Hui and Song Ruwei along. Count Zhongyi's successor Song Baiye and his wife Madam Xu were preparing to travel back to Luoyang. Madam Xu's mother had fallen sick, so the married couple had decided to go back to Luoyang for a visit. Due to the long distance, they didn't plan to take Song Hui and Song Ruwei. Furthermore, after the Dragon Boat Festival had passed, it would be time to celebrate the Empress' birthday. Count Zhongyi was already old, and it was inconvenient for him to walk around, thus Song Hui had to represent Count Zhongyi's family and present the birthday greetings to Empress Chen. As a result, they definitely couldn't take Song Hui to go back with them.

Song Baiye had come over this time, in hopes that the two families would visit each other more often. During the time he and Madam Xu weren't present in the capital, Duke Ying's residence could give more care to Count Zhongyi's residence.

Notes: Chaozhong has been changed to (in/within the) Imperial Court. It was an oversight, and I'm still in the process of getting used to some terms… This story is under constant editing, sigh.

Wretch: the actual translation was cheap person (literal), slut (actual), but 'slut' that has a different meaning than the modern one. So I used 'wretch' which carries a closer meaning.

Apple face: means she has adorable round cheeks.

Shooting herself in the foot: though it sounds modern, the actual translation is 'smashing her own foot with a stone'.

More family antics this chapter. Just because Wei Kun is on Wei Luo's side, it doesn't mean he's a good person. The novel did say he had a weak, soft character, and he's obsessed with his first wife… Almost everyone in this novel has their own selfish motivation :).

Duke Ying wasn't in the residence, thus only Wei Kun went to the reception pavilion to receive Count Zhongyi's successor and his wife.

Song Baiye and Madam Xu weren't aware of Madam Du's matter yet. Arriving at the reception pavilion, they saw only Wei Kun, but not Madam Du, leading them ask curiously: "How come we didn't see the fifth madam?"

Wei Kun wasn't willing to mention the issue. Furthermore, he didn't want people from Count Zhongyi's residence to meddle in his family's affairs, so he spoke concisely: "She's made a mistake, she's currently reflecting on herself in seclusion."

Hearing that, the two people were considerably startled. Madam Du had made a mistake, this mistake could be big or small, in the end, what kind of mistake was it? No one had told them of this matter, so they naturally weren't clear about the inside story. They had a mind to ask for the details, but seeing Wei Kun's closed off expression, they kept quiet a bit embarrassed. They had come with a request this time, so it wouldn't do to make a disturbance because of Madam Du. Not to mention Madam Du was merely the distantly related second wife. A married daughter was like spilt water, they didn't have a reason to care too much.

Madam Xu considered for a bit, and said a few fords of praise for Madam Du as a show of support, "Before Yueying got married, she had the utmost understanding of etiquette…"

Done speaking, she saw that Wei Kun wasn't in the mood to listen, and tactfully changed the topic, bringing up next month's feast in honor of the Empress' birthday. Empress Chen was 35 this year, the legitimate daughter of Huaihua's great general. Coming from a general's family, her moral conduct was righteous. During the time they were recapturing Wurong, she had fought alongside with the then Crown Prince, Emperor Chong Zhen. Battling the enemies, they were able to defend Daliang's landscape. Empress Chen and Emperor Chong Zhen's mutual affections had developed as they followed each other in life and death on the battlefield, it was deeply moving. It had already turned into a beautiful story in the capital through word of mouth. Empress Chen had given birth to two sons and one daughter. The oldest prince hadn't reached ten before dying an early death. The second prince, Zhao Jie, was 15 this year. There was also the precious princess, who was only seven years old.

Empress Chen had been born in a rich and powerful noble family. What treasures hadn't her pair of eyes seen before? Preparing a gift for her was, therefore, a truly difficult task.

While the adults were speaking, the several children naturally couldn't sit still. Song Hui could still be regarded as sitting properly, but the other kids weren't behaving. Song Ruwei was glancing left and right, Changhong's head was bowed as he played with his coiled nephrite waist ornament, Wei Zheng was absent-mindedly peeling peanuts, as for Wei Luo…Wei Luo?

Song Hui raised his eyes, and saw a small head pop out from behind the ironwood chair that Wei Kun was sitting on. The small head shifted slightly and revealed a pair of round sparkling eyes. With an adorable smiling face, Wei Luo quietly extended a tiny finger and pointed at the door, meaning that she wanted Song Hui to lead her outside.

Song Hui quickly understood, smiled gently, and stood up. After paying respects to Wei Kun and Song Baiye, he said: "Father, fifth Uncle, I want to take Ah Luo and the little sisters along for a turn in the backyard."

Wei Kun was quite satisfied with Song Hui, this future son-in-law, thinking that he was not only intelligent, but also considerably tolerant, and had a sense of propriety. Over time, he would surely turn into a fine young man worth entrusting one's lifetime to. Having heard what he'd said, he nodded and pulled Wei Luo to come out from behind his back with a smile: "Don't hide, Daddy already saw you."

Wei Luo wasn't feeling the least bit guilty. Sweetly responding with 'Thank you, Daddy', she broke away from him and walked over to Song Hui. Just as she reached him, Song Hui automatically held her little hand, leading her out of the reception pavilion. He tapped her small nose and said with a smile: "You little smartaleck."

Following closely behind, Changhong walked over to them with a wooden expression, and split up Song Hui and Wei Luo's clasped hands. He raised his head to viciously glare at Song Hui, protecting Wei Luo behind his body like a hen protecting her young ones.

He had a very deep prejudice towards Song Hui. If he was asked why, he himself was also not too clear about it. It seemed as if he had formed the habit from childhood. Whenever Song Hui showed up, he would have a sense of crisis, believing that this person had come to snatch Wei Luo away. Growing up, he had probably often heard Wei Kun saying 'Ah Luo is Song Hui's little wife, some day she's going to marry into Count Zhongyi's family', so gradually, he had started to reject Song Hui more and more.

The weather today was good, with clean air and clear skies, a smooth breeze, it was very suitable for a walk around the backyard.

They had barely walked out of the front courtyard, when they met the eldest young master Wei Changyin, who had incidentally also come out.

Wei Changyin was the eldest madam's son, 16 this year. Originally, he was supposed to be a fine young man of style, however, when he was eight years old, he was thrown off a horse because of Prince* Rui's son, Zhao Jue. The horse's hoofs stamped on his legs and injured his muscles and bones. Since then, he was unable to stand up and walk again, and could only rely on the wheelchair to move around. Nobody knew how many tears the eldest madam had secretly wiped away that year, as she invited famous doctor after famous doctor to no avail. Fortunately, Wei Changyin was an optimistic and open-minded person, and was thus able to recover his spirits. He had spent these years calmly and with dignity, completely aloof and relaxed, as if the outside world didn't concern him. They obviously lived in the same Duke's residence, yet Wei Luo rarely saw his face. She wasn't that familiar with this eldest brother, either.

Meeting each other now, she politely called out 'big brother', then stood there without talking too much.

Wei Changyin was strikingly handsome, his features greatly resembled the eldest master Wei Min. He was withdrawn and solemn, with straightforward and honest bearings. He had polished his character over the years, becoming more temperate. Although he couldn't walk, his imposing manner as he sat in the wheelchair didn't lose to others, giving people a 'can only watch from a distance, cannot trifle with' impression.

He nodded his head in response and looked at Song Hui, who was next to Wei Luo, the edges of his lips bending in a smile, "Muxi has come." (muxi – osmanthus fragrans tree)

Muxi was Song Hui's childhood name. When Song Hui was born, the courtyard had been full of the sweet scent of osmanthus flowers. In addition, his mother, Madam Xu, was very fond of the sweet osmanthus, so they had chosen that pet name for him. The name was pleasing to the ear, being called like that in his childhood, he also found it pleasant to hear, but now that he had grown up, it seemed a little childish. After Song Hui had turned twelve, it was rare for people to call him by his pet name. Being called this way by Wei Changyin now, he actually wasn't particularly opposed to it, finding it instead somewhat amiable, "Big brother Wei."

Supporting himself on the wheelchair, Wei Changyin was, in any case, in no hurry to go, and didn't mind exchanging a few words with him: "Have your mother and your father also come? I haven't seen them for a long time."

Song Hui replied, "Yes, my mother and father are in the front courtyard."

Wei Changyin looked pensive, he ought to go over to take a look, but it was inconvenient without the use of his legs. Year after year he led a solitary existence, even if he met them, there was nothing to discuss. Thinking about it, it was better to let it be. Laughing, he said: "Say hello to your parents for me." Having said that, he didn't continue the small talk. He beckoned for the young child pushing the wheelchair behind him to depart, "I still have some things to do, so I'll take my leave first."

Song Hui moved back, saying politely: "Big brother Wei, take care."

The sound of the wheelchair grating on the patio was particularly clear. As it rolled away, Wei Luo was looking at Wei Changyin's back, lost in thought. In the previous life, her close friend, Liang Yurong, had liked big brother Wei Changyin from childhood. No one took it to heart in the beginning, believing it to be a mere child's fancy, that once she grew up, she would become more sensible and would gradually drift apart. But no one could have imagined that after she grew up, this kind of vague goodwill not only didn't vanish, but developed into love between a man and a woman instead, and it only deepened over time. Liang Yurong's parents were fully against this kind of marriage. Not speaking of the large age difference of whole ten years between Wei Changyin and her, those two legs of his were reason enough that they were absolutely unable to entrust her to him.

Too bad that Liang Yurong liked big brother so much, she ignored all the obstacles. Regardless of how much her family opposed, she never listened.

Though she resisted her family for a very long time, she ultimately couldn't fight against her parents' matchmaking. Marquis Pingyuan chose a good marriage partner for her, only waiting for her to come of age (15), but this kind of marriage never came to be. Because a few days before getting married, she had hung herself at home. By the time people found out, her body was already cold.

This matter was no secret. So long as the past Wei Luo had a mind to ask around, she could find out everything.

She had also heard that Wei Changyin had henceforth shut himself in, and no one ever saw his face again.

His heart must have been in a lot of pain.

Wei Luo was staring at his back in a daze. By the time the person had disappeared out of sight, she was still unable to compose herself. Song Hui gently flicked her forehead and asked with a smile: "What is Ah Luo thinking about? Being so fascinated."

Wei Luo looked at him a she covered her forehead, her dewy eyes appearing confused. Quite a while later, she bent her eyes in a smile, "I was wondering where big brother was going. Eldest aunt said that his legs were no good, and cannot go to places too far away."

Song Hui was also not too clear about this issue. Thinking it over, he said: "He's probably busy." Pausing, he asked Wei Luo, "The Dragon Boat Festival is tomorrow, does Ah Luo want to go out? There will be many interesting things on the main street, big brother Song Hui can take you along to play for the whole day."

Wei Luo responded with a nod, "I want to!"

She had only seen the main street on the second day of her rebirth, but it had basically not been for a stroll. The streets in the capital city Sheng were the most prosperous, there was an endless stream of customers trading with the merchants. Her personality was very lively, and since there was someone willing to take her out, she was naturally glad.

While Count Zhongyi's family members were taking their leave, Song Hui seized the opportunity to bring up this matter to Wei Kun. Wei Kun hesitated a little, but nevertheless agreed. But since Song Hui's capability was limited, he could only take along Wei Luo alone. Any more and it would be easy to have an accident. As a result, Wei Zheng and Changhong both had to remain home, they weren't allowed to go out tomorrow.

Everything was set. Apart from Changhong, who had made some noise in the evening in disagreement, things proceeded smoothly. However, while eating breakfast the next morning, Wei Luo wasn't careful and swallowed a whole front tooth inside her belly.

In the first place, this front tooth had been loose for several days, so she didn't dare to touch it, and also ate very cautiously. Who would've known, this morning the kitchen would prepare delicious steamed stuffed buns with a very generous filling. She merely felt the incisor was a little loose, swallowing automatically, the tooth slipped down her throat and into her belly.

She froze. When she managed to respond, she ran up to the gate and opened her mouth gagging for a long time, but nothing came out. Jin Lu was perplexed, thinking that the steamed bun was probably not tasty. She prepared a cup of tea to let her rinse her mouth. Wei Luo raised her small face, furrowing her brows. There was a gap in her teeth, and the air passed through when she spoke: "Big sister Jin Lu, I swallowed a tooth…"

The tooth had to pass through the throat to enter the stomach, it would be disastrous if it blocked the windpipe.

Jin Lu hurriedly put down the teacup and ran to ask for a doctor. Luckily, after taking a look, the doctor said it was alright, in several days it would safely pass through the intestines.

Wei Luo still thought she had lost face. Eating the tooth along with the steamed bun, when she wasn't even a true six year old child. Her mind couldn't accept it. Since this early morning, she had closed her mouth, refusing to speak.

At around 8am, Song Hui personally came to get her and found out her behavior was a little different from the usual.

How come the little kid wasn't speaking nor laughing today?

Song Hui wasn't riding a horse today. In order to show consideration for Wei Luo, he had taken the carriage instead. As he carried her into the carriage, he asked curiously: "Is Ah Luo unhappy today?"

Wei Luo shook her head, not uttering a word.

He also asked: "Then why aren't you speaking?"

Wei Luo lifted up her glistening black eyes to look into his, covered her mouth and said despondently: "My tooth fell."

After listening, Song Hui not only didn't laugh, but also moved her hand away, looking at her in concern. His younger sister, Song Ruwei, had also recently replaced her teeth. All little children had to go through this, there was nothing to laugh about. If you laughed, she would get angrier, her self-esteem might get hurt, and could even start ignoring you.

Sure enough, with his frank attitude Wei Luo also felt much better. No longer keeping her silence, she was willing to say a few words to him once in a while.

They finally reached the bustling main street, the noisy sounds of the market could be heard from afar. This street was the widest, it could easily fit eight carriages side by side. The carriage of Count Zhongyi's residence kept going until they arrived at the gate of a restaurant. The board in front of the door had 'Zhen Cui Zhai' inscribed in three big characters. Zhen Cui Zhai was a famous restaurant in the capital, exquisitely decorated, with fine dishes. The shark fin soup and the osmanthus fish bones had reached perfection, making people keep coming back for the taste.

Back in the day, when Emperor Chong Zhen had gone on an inspection tour, he had passed through this place and praised the tasty food. From then on, the restaurant had become well-known, the business had gotten better and better. And today, the majority of their clients were the rich and powerful noble families. If the ordinary families wanted to eat those dishes, they would have to reserve a spot ten days in advance.

Today Song Hui had brought Wei Luo here precisely to let her try the osmanthus fish bones.

He led Wei Luo to go in. Someone from Count Zhongyi's residence had already reserved good seats. After reporting the names to the attendants, a young male servant showed them the way to the private rooms upstairs.

As Song Hui pulled Wei Luo along to go upstairs, he inclined his head to ask her: "Where does Ah Luo want to go and play?"

Wei Luo earnestly considered, "I want to buy a longevity thread bracelet…"

The longevity bracelet guaranteed good health and prevented contagious diseases. She wanted to put the longevity bracelet on Changhong, hoping that his life could be safe and peaceful this time. She never believed in supernatural forces before, but now that she got to live this life, she couldn't help but believe.

She hadn't finished speaking, when she saw a sapphire blue robe lined with sweet flag patterns blocking the front. The opposite party stood on top of the stairway, probably planning to climb down.

She wanted to step aside and give way, but as soon as she raised her head, she surprisingly met Zhao Jie's pair of eyes, that were as deep as the sea.

Zhao Jie smiled faintly as he looked at her. Her small mouth was hanging open unconsciously, and there wasn't enough time to close it, so she ended up exposing the front tooth gap.

longevity

The longevity bracelet might be the same as today's friendship bracelet ^^.

Notes: Married daughter is like spilt water – the sad, sad fate of women from the past to marry into a different family, and only to see their parents' faces during a few holidays a year at most… Spilt water can't get back in the jug.

Prince Rui: the word Prince here is a bit different than the one used for Zhao Jie. It indicates that Prince Rui is from the same generation as the Emperor (his brother probably). If you have any ideas for a better term, so that it could be differentiated, I'm open to suggestions.

Losing face: Do any of you mind if I leave it like this? The meaning is close to 'disgraced', it's just a term that is so often used in Chinese novels, might as well leave it alone. Lose face, gain face, save face, drag face through the mud… I might've gotten used to seeing it this way, hehe.

Zhen Cui Zhai: 珍萃斋 I'm very bad at translating titles and things like these. Not enough context. It could loosely mean a gathering place for treasures (in the sense of culinary delicacies). Since its essentially a name, I left it as is.

Wei Luo immediately closed her mouth, her eyes opening wide as she watched him rather vigilantly.

She wasn't at home now, nor were the elders beside her, so her attitude towards him changed? Zhao Jie found her very interesting. Obviously a small child, yet different from the average child in all respects. Now that her front tooth had fallen out, she looked more like a little girl instead, both funny and cute.

Song Hui didn't know they were acquainted, and furthermore wasn't aware the person in front of him was Prince Jing. Zhao Jie hadn't returned to the capital for many years. When he had left, Song Hui had still been a child younger than ten years old. Now he had come back to the capital for more than a month, but hadn't made any public appearances, so it was normal for Song Hui not to recognize him.

Out of courtesy, Song Hui stepped to the side to make way, but seeing that the opposite party didn't move, he led Wei Luo towards a private dining room. However, they just took a step, when a guard dressed in cyan clothes easily blocked their path. Song Hui was a little startled, not understanding his intention, "This elder brother, is there something the matter?"

Zhu Geng didn't speak, he was merely following Zhao Jie's orders and nothing more.

Zhao Jie strolled toward Wei Luo, stopping in front of her. He bent down and lifted her chin with a smile in his eyes: "Open your mouth."

Wei Luo kept her mouth closed. He said to open, but if she immediately opened, wouldn't she lose face? Moreover, it looked like he was going to make fun of her. She definitely wouldn't listen to him.

The more she disobeyed, the more he wanted to make her obey. He was in a good mood today and didn't mind wasting some time with her here, so he used his other hand to pinch her little nose. He didn't use much strength, afraid that a pinch would break her. Initially, the little girl could still endure, but her cheeks gradually flushed as she held her breath. Her fine small face filled with indignation, she finally opened her mouth to say: "…Let go!"

Unfortunately, with a missing incisor, the words she spoke weren't too clear, but slightly unnatural. Zhao Jie's smile deepened more and more. Letting go of her tiny nose, he raised her chin to thoroughly look over her front teeth for a long time, and asked: "Will you still bite me now?"

Wei Luo lost face considerably, small children also had their dignity! She tightly pursed her soft pink lips and refused to acknowledge him.

From the side, Song Hui observed the two's familiar manner with each other, and couldn't hep but ask: "Excuse me, your excellency is?"

Zhao Jie released Ah Luo at that moment, and straightened up to look at Song Hui. He restrained the laughter in his eyes, and spoke with no arrogance: "Zhao, named Liqing."

Zhao was the country's surname, Liching was namely 'Jing'(peaceful). In the capital Sheng, very few could be called with the word 'Jing'. It was practically needless to ponder too much. Song Hui guessed his identity right away, and hurriedly performed a deep bow, saying: "So it turns out it was the Prince. I am Song Hui of Count Zhongyi's house. Forgive me for being dull, not recognizing the Prince."

His attitude was respectful and prudent, but he was a bit confused all along.

How did Ah Luo come to be acquainted with Prince Jing? In addition, looking at Prince Jing's behavior, he seemed very close to her. But Ah Luo was usually shut at home, rarely going out. How would she have the opportunity to meet Prince Jing?

Zhao Jie didn't answer his greeting. He lowered his head to shoot a glance at the little girl silently rubbing her nose, his lips raising as he asked: "Did young master Song bring this little sister out to for a meal?"

Song Hui nodded, leading Ah Luo to stand beside him, "Exactly. Today is the Dragon Boat Festival, so I brought her out to sightsee."

Zhao Jie wasn't too clear about the relationship between the houses of Count Zhongyi and Duke Ying, and didn't ask about it. He spoke to Wei Luo, who was hiding behind Song Hui: "The medicine you gave to this Prince last time is finished, do you have any more?"

That medicine's effect was truly not bad. He had only used it a few times, and the purple bruise on his wrist had faded away, leaving behind the distinct tooth marks. The Imperial physician had said the bite was too deep, and estimated that the marks would remain for life. Zhao Jie was angry at first, and wanted to teach this little girl, who didn't know the immensity of heaven and earth, a lesson. Later, when he learned she had bitten him in order to attract his attention, he got a little interested in her. Now, rather than angry, he was more curious, wishing to find out what she was thinking about in that head of hers. He was also baffled with himself. He was clearly the most impatient when dealing with small children, yet he had this much patience for her. If it was someone else, he definitely wouldn't have stopped at the stairs of the restaurant for them.

Wei Luo's eyes glinted, the young milky voice speaking bluntly: "Don't have any!"

Amusement flashed in Zhao Jie's eyes. He wanted to say more, but had no time. If he kept standing there, it would be too conspicuous. Thus he ended the conversation, and bidding goodbye to Song Hui, stepped down the staircase.

Zhao Jie sat in the black-roofed carriage of the Jing royal residence, and instructed the coachman to head home. The carriage had traveled midway, when he suddenly called out: "Zhu Geng."

Zhu Geng discretely lifted the black curtain lined with gold embroidery, and walked beside the carriage as he asked: "What commands does the Prince have?"

He was leaning back inside the carriage, the thick curtains keeping the interior dark. Only a little bit of sunshine was let in through the lifted corner, illuminating his slender white hands. His voice was slow, as if he thought over his words as he spoke: "I've been away from the capital for a long time, so there are some things I'm not too clear about. How are the households of Count Zhongyi and Duke Ying connected?"

As his personal bodyguard, Zhu Geng didn't only need his martial arts to be good, but also needed to have some ability to gather information. To Zhao Jie's question, he could answer almost immediately: "The Prince has forgotten, five years ago Count Zhongyi and Duke Ying's families became related through marriage. The niece of Count Zhongyi's Madam got married to Duke Ying's fifth master as his second wife…" He paused, suddenly guessing that wasn't what Zhao Jie wanted to hear about, then added: "The Duke residence's fourth miss and Song Hui are arranged to be married from childhood."

No wonder Song Hui took such care of that little girl, so they were in that kind of relationship. Zhao Jie contemplated casually, that little girl's nature was peevish, she would definitely grow up to be like a hot chili pepper one day. Looking at Song Hui, he seemed to be a mild-tempered person. It was unknown whether he would be able to withstand her spirit in the future.

Zhu Geng saw that he had no more questions, so he softly dropped the curtain, thinking to himself that he had apparently guessed right.

Inside Zhen Cui Zhai, after the waiter laid down all the dishes saying "customers, take your time", he went down. Song Hui raised the silver chopsticks, picked up an osmanthus fish bone from the celadon crackle saucer, and placed it in front of Wei Luo, then asked: "Ah Luo, how did you get acquainted with Prince Jing?"

Wei Luo took a bite of the egg yolk, then another bite of the fish bone. One soft, the other crisp, the flavor was salty and delicious. It was no wonder so many people came here to eat this dish, the flavor was indeed pretty good. It was only a pity that she had just swallowed a tooth, and also got mocked by Zhao Jie, now she wasn't in any mood to appreciate the taste. She puffed up her cheeks, saying: "When we went back from burning incense in Huguo Temple, madam wanted to sell me to a slave trader. I asked him to save me, thus we got acquainted."

She downplayed the story, however Song Hui got a great shock, the raised chopsticks remaining midair for a long time, "What did you say? What madam?"

Wei Luo blinked, seemingly completely unaware that her news had caused someone shock, her young voice saying childishly: "Wei Zheng's mother, my father's wife."

Her speaking out wasn't without reason. Letting Song Hui know of Madam Du's nature, was the same as letting Count Zhongyi's people know. Madam Du had done such an outrageous thing, if the time came that the Count's people wanted to plead for leniency on her behalf, they still wouldn't be able to open their mouths.

Song Hui's expression was heavy. Just then, he had heard Wei Kun in the entry, when he said Madam Du had made a mistake, but he didn't expect it was such a huge blunder. Wei Luo was unlikely to tell lies, and adding on the strange atmosphere in the Duke's residence, this matter was certainly real. He was suddenly stumped for words, how could Madam Du be so muddle-headed? What did Ah Luo ever do to her? As a small child who didn't know anything, her eyes would curve when she smiled, especially moving. How did she have the heart to do it?

Song Hui quickly started feeling both guilty and sorry to Wei Luo. Madam Du had come from their family, so their family wasn't able to escape some responsibility. From that point of view, they didn't have the right to say anything. Regardless of how Duke Ying's family decided to punish Madam Du, they didn't have the qualifications to interfere.

It could be said that they had arrived to eat in high spirits, but left disappointed. For Wei Luo, it was because she had met Zhao Jie, while Song Hui was thinking of Madam Du's matter, and didn't know whether he should tell his parents.

After coming out of the restaurant, neither of them was in the mood to continue their stroll. Just as they were about to return to the residence, Wei Luo suddenly remembered something, pulling Song Hui to a stop as she said: "Big brother Song Hui, I still haven't bought a longevity bracelet."

Song Hui broke out of his daze. Raising his lips in a forced smile, he stroked her head and said: "Good, I'll bring Ah Luo to buy a longevity bracelet."

At the Dragon Boat Festival, longevity bracelets were sold everywhere. Holding Song Hui's hand, A Luo pulled him along to one side of the street to have a look. Both sides of the streets were full of peddlers selling all types of trinkets, so dazzling, she couldn't take it all in. Having walked for a while, they eventually stopped in front of a peddler, who had hung five-colored strings all over his stand.

Her body was short, and being in front of the vendor's stand, she simply wasn't able to see any of the display above, so Song Hui held her up by the legs, making it easier for her to sort through the strings. The little girl was very pragmatic, she chose the string that looked the thickest and most durable, and picked it up saying: "I want this one!"

Smiling, Song Hui completed the transaction, and turned his head to indicate for the bodyguard to pay. He was about to tie the bracelet around her wrist for her, not expecting her to shake her head in refusal: "It's not for me to wear, it's for Changhong."

Song Hui was stunned, as he believed she was buying it for herself. So young, yet she was thinking of her younger brother, it was clear she was particularly thoughtful. Recalling how such a sensible little girl had almost gotten sold, his heart couldn't help but squeeze painfully, "Do you know what this is used for?"

Ah Luo nodded with a smile, "Nurse said the longevity bracelet lets a person live long."

It was actually a very practical statement.

Song Hui was amused by her, his overcast mood from before had improved to some extent. He carried her as he walked towards the carriage, "Our Ah Luo is truly sensible."

Wei Luo was hugging his neck with a smile on her small face, but she didn't think so in her mind. It wasn't that she was sensible. She remembered the previous life Changhong's bitter experiences. The longevity bracelet might not necessarily be able to ensure his long life, she was merely seeking a little peace of mind. In any case, she wanted Changhong to grow up healthy and steady in this life.

The two persons' clothes were luxurious, their appearance uncommon. A youth in an indigo robe with golden persimmon stem brocade that underlined his tall and straight physique, a splendid boy with many prospects; in his embrace a little lady whose looks were even more exquisite, with red lips and white teeth, one look was enough to tell she wasn't a child from an ordinary household. Especially the silver longevity locket with blue jewels around her neck dazzled people's eyes with its brilliance. One big and one small figure were walking on the street, attracting many gazes.

A woman, carrying a wicker basket over her hand, made a move, taking out a pink silk flower as she stepped forward to ask: "Young lady, you're so pretty, this silk flower suits you the most, why don't you ask your big brother to buy one?"

Song Hui's arms protected Wei Luo's body from being touched. Following the voice, Wei Luo took a look. When she saw that woman's face, the happy expression in her eyes froze immediately, turning ice-cold.

The woman was wearing apricot yellow garments, the attire was plain, a green worm silver hairpin in her cloud bun hairstyle. Her looks were ordinary, lips slightly thick, above the corner of her mouth was a black mole. It was exactly this black mole that Wei Luo deeply remembered. In both lifetimes, she wouldn't be able to forget it.

In her previous life, Wei Luo had washed down the river, and into a village named Longshou village. Longshou village was almost 10 li (5 km) away from the capital Sheng, its position remote, life there was also comparatively poorer. She was adopted by a family of two. The husband was called Bai Yang, and the wife Lin Huilian. She was like a biological daughter to them, they never treated her ill, meeting such people was already very rare in such an impoverished village. Wei Luo initially thought herself fortunate to have this pair of kindhearted foster parents. Rather than going back to the Duke's residence to be mistreated by her stepmother, it was better to stay here as their daughter.

But the truth was different.

This couple had once had a son many years ago. The son had drowned and perished in the same river, that she had originally floated down from. They adopted her not to raise her as a daughter, but as a daughter-in-law. They wanted to marry her to him after she grew up, so their son had someone to take care of him in the underworld. When she first learned of this matter, Wei Luo had been shocked for a long time, not knowing what to do. They saved her and brought her up, now that they mentioned this kind of request, should she comply?

At that time, she was already 14, the prettiest young woman in Longshou village. There were many young lads who wanted to take her as a wife, and were discussing marriage offers with the Bai household. They weren't looking for a good match, were they really going to make her into a ghost bride for their son?

But the Bai Yang couple pleaded, saying they were childless, and didn't have the heart to let their son be alone in the netherworld. Based on their mutual affection for so many years, they asked her to agree to this marriage. After she got married, they would treat her the same way as before, they absolutely wouldn't be unfair to her, and would consider her as their own child.

Wei Luo considered this for three days, and still agreed in the end.

That was what she owed them for their kindness.

The wedding was decided to take place on her 15th birthday, when she reached marriageable age. Who knew how many people in the village wrung their hands in regret for this reason, saying some things behind her back, but never letting her hear. On the day she got married, she wore the red bridal clothes, believing she would have to perform the wedding ritual in front of the memorial tablet, but didn't expect the Bai Ying husband and wife to bring her to the graveyard halfway up the mountain behind the village, wanting her to kowtow to a coffin. The person was dead for many years already, the corpse had rotted long ago, only a pile of bones remained. She was suppressing her fear in order to complete the courtesies, while her legs felt weak at the knees. Just when she was ready to return home, that pair of husband and wife went as far as to push her into the coffin, intending to bury her alive with their son.

Wei Luo was scared out of her wits. It turned out all their nice words were false, adopting her was for this purpose from the beginning. So when the villagers wanted to speak but hesitated, it was because of this.

She didn't know where she got the strength at that time, she struggled free, and fled down the mountain, taking advantage of the night's darkness. She ran away from this village called Longshou.

She couldn't stay at this place anymore. What she had to pay back was all paid back, the kindness was also repaid. She didn't owe them anything. She wanted to return to the capital and the Duke's residence to meet her relatives, but didn't anticipate that neither place could serve as her shelter. No matter where she went, it was a dead end.

The woman in front of her now, was precisely Bai Yang's wife, Lin Huilian. Her previous life's foster mother.

Zhao Jie: The first time we met, wifey left her mark on me.

Ah Luo: →_→ What are you thinking ne? Such a strong distress signal, weren't you able to sense it?

…

Notes: The above was a small extra I missed within the author's notes after the third chapter, when Ah Luo bit Zhao Jie. That mark was for life, haha, she'll have to take responsibility now…

'Zhao was the country's surname': assume they mean the dynasty or the surname of the Emperor's family.

Lin Huilian would sell her own handmade silk flowers in the capital each month to support the family. As Bai Yang's legs weren't good, he wasn't suitable for the heavy farm work, so the whole family could only rely on the money from her selling the silk flowers to live. The past life's Wei Luo felt that while this lifestyle may be hard, it was actually very joyful. She also learned how to make silk flowers from Lin Huilian, making them even more appealing than hers. But she'd never imagined things would turn out like that in the end.

Now, seeing that face again, she recalled the feelings of disappointment from the past life. Looking at Lin Huilian, the first thought in her mind wasn't about them being good to her, but the scene of that woman and Bai Yang pushing her into the coffin. The black mole at the corner of her mouth, that she had looked at for ten years, felt so unfamiliar right now.

Wei Luo received the pink silk flower that she was handed. Lost in thought, she held it for a long time without relinquishing her grip. Mrs. Lin and Song Hui both thought she liked it, Song Hui was even about to call for an aide to pay the money, but she unexpectedly trembled as if she was cold, and threw the silk flower at Mrs. Lin. Closely hugging Song Hui's neck, she said, "Don't want it! Big brother Song Hui, this flower smells very weird."

Wei Luo's words weren't idle talk, falsely accusing Lin Huilian, but she had solid evidence.

The people who went to the capital to sell their silk flowers were many, but her craftsmanship wasn't good, the flowers she made were less attractive than other people's, so the business was naturally worse than theirs. In order to earn a living, she had no choice but to think of other means. She soaked vanilla in the silk flowers. The scent of vanilla was unique, and many young ladies became fond of it. But this scent made people easily addicted. Henceforth becoming dependent on it, if they didn't get to smell it one day, they would feel uncomfortable all over.

Such an insidious business, the past Wei Luo had only found out about it when she was 15.

Mrs. Lin never let her wear this kind of silk flower, she only sold them to the rich families' Misses from distant villages and the capital. Because she went to remote places, she hadn't been discovered yet.

At Wei Luo's current words, Mrs. Lin's complexion turned pale. She didn't know whether this little lady had found out anything wrong, and was furthermore afraid that other people may figure something out. If others thought there was a problem, she wouldn't be able to come to the capital to do business anymore. She frantically picked up the silk flower from the ground, and turned around to leave, no longer trying to sell to Wei Luo.

Wei Luo watched her departing figure with a taut face, showing a dark and gloomy appearance.

Song Hui was amused by her solemn expression. Setting her down on the carriage, he pinched her tender face and asked: "How strange was the scent of that flower after all? It seemed to offend little sister Ah Luo's nostrils."

Wei Luo didn't like people pinching her face, just as much as she didn't like others seeing the tooth gap in her mouth. She puffed up her cheeks, pushing his hand away, "Hurts! Big brother Song Hui, don't pinch me!"

The little girl's skin was getting more and more delicate, moist, white and tender, making people unable to resist a touch. Song Hui let her go to take a look, and the places that were pinched by him really had a trace of red. He obviously hadn't put any strength into it, so strange. Song Hui felt truly bad for her as he used his hands to rub gently. After rubbing for a little while, he couldn't help laughing: "It really is fragile."

Wei Luo didn't answer, her brain was still occupied with her earlier encounter with Lin Huilian.

It shouldn't have been long since they'd buried their son at the current date, her and Bai Yang were probably in the middle of mourning. If it wasn't out of fear that the family would starve, Lin Huilian wouldn't have come to the capital to sell silk flowers. But Wei Luo wasn't concerned about this point, she was concerned whether they would adopt another little girl during their lifetime. Adopting someone, would they prepare a ghost marriage for their son with her?

Burying people alive wasn't a trivial matter. If it was reported to the authorities, it was enough to convict them.

That pair of husband and wife weren't only insane, but also lawless.

Moreover, what made Wei Luo bitterly disappointed was that the people in Longshou village were evidently all aware of their plans, yet not a single person warned her.

Wasn't that considered as a tacit approval? Was her life of so little value in their eyes?

She was pursing her lips wordlessly. Song Hui had called her many times without getting an answer, while she looked forlorn and lost in thought. Thinking she was feeling ill, he got anxious, and was about to pinch her small palms: "Ah Luo!"

She finally returned to her senses. Raising her pair of dewy eyes, she uttered a soft 'ah'. She noticed he had broken out in sweat, and held up a sleeve to wipe it away, "What is it big brother Song Hui? There's sweat on your forehead."

The pair of eyes had cleared up, glittery and spirited, the gloomy expression from a moment ago was gone.

Song Hui let out a breath, gripping her small hand as he asked: "What were you thinking about just now? I called you so many times but you didn't answer."

Wei Luo tilted her head, dragging the sound of her words and acting spoiled as she said: "I was sleepy just now… Big brother Song Hui, when are we going back home?"

So it turned out her eyes had been blurry from being tired. Song Hui found it a little ridiculous, getting frightened all by himself. There was nothing wrong with Ah Luo. He made her lie down on the wide red-lacquered seat with spiral decorations, and covered her with a blanket embroidered with gold and silver flowers. He said indulgently: "Ah Luo can rest awhile for now, when you open your eyes again, we'll be home."

She nodded and obediently closed her eyes, turning her back to the wall.

The little kid was actually very tired, and it didn't take long for her breath to even out, as she fell asleep.

Back in Duke Ying's residence, Song Hui carefully passed Wei Luo to the Nurse.

Having suddenly traded one embrace for another, she didn't feel secure and whined in protest. Patting her back, the Nurse coaxed her into quickly going back to sleep.

The Nurse carried Wei Luo, entering the residence, while Song Hui stood outside the gate for a long time. Once he wasn't able to see their figures any longer, he turned around to climb into the carriage.

The carriage quickly returned to Count Zhongyi's residence. Song Baiye and Madam Xu were out and grandfather, Count Zhongyi, was old. Managing this big residence's household affairs depended on Song Hui alone. He recalled the words Wei Luo had said today in Zhen Cui Zhai. Contemplating over them for a while, he still decided to make someone investigate about that day's events.

Although the guards at Count Zhongyi's residence weren't as well-trained as Duke Ying's elites, if they wanted to investigate something, it wasn't difficult for them.

Not a long time later, one person came back to report: "Young master, it's all true."

Song Hui tightly gripped a small ceramic teacup in his hand, and said in a hoarse voice: "Give me the details."

The guard retold the whole story of that day, including Madam Du coming in contact with the slave traders; Nurse Jin shouldering the blame for her and getting beaten to death by the Duke residence's people; as well as the discovery of Madam Du's pregnancy, and her present confinement in a small courtyard… It seemed Wei Luo's words were all true, Madam Du had seriously wanted to sell her.

That was simply unforgivable.

Done listening, Song Hui was silent for a long time. Without any warning, he flung the teacup far away.

The small teacup smashed into pieces as it fell on the ground. The guard below was petrified, not daring to open his mouth again.

A while later, he stood up, saying: "Don't let my parents know of this matter yet. When they come back from Luoyang, I'll tell them personally."

The guard complied, and seeing that he had no more orders, tactfully withdrew from the room.

Song Hui spent a lot of time sitting in the main hall, without calling for anyone to attend to him. The maids didn't dare act on their own initiative either.

The young master's disposition was the gentlest, he almost never lost his temper. Today he got angry enough to smash a teacup, it could be clearly seen his anger wasn't small. They didn't know what had occurred inside, trying to guess the reason secretly, but they weren't able to come up with the correct answer all along. By the time the sun set in the west, with the clouds turning an impressive rosy color, no light was lit in the main room, and it was thoroughly dark inside. Only then did he slowly walk out.

Duke Ying's residence.

Wei Luo slept until the next morning. As soon as she opened her eyes, she started looking for the longevity bracelet she had bought yesterday. With great difficulty, she found it under the flower decorated pillow. She didn't even bother putting on her shoes, when she set out to find Changhong.

Her black hair was spread over her back, accentuating her delicate and nimble form. Beneath a green muslin skirt, a pair of bare white feet stepped on the floor, but she didn't dislike the cold. No one would be able to block her path if she ran. Fortunately, Wei Kun came out around then. He crouched by the door and brought her into his embrace. Hugging her as he stood up, he asked: "Where does Ah Luo want to go in such a hurry?"

Holding the longevity bracelet, Ah Luo twisted her body, "Daddy, bring me to Changhong quickly, I have something to give him."

Wei Kun raised his eyebrows curiously, "What thing?"

She had no choice but to take out the longevity bracelet. She didn't expect that after Wei Kun saw it, he would praise her greatly for being considerate and knowing how to take care of her younger brother as a proper elder sister.

The weather in the early morning was chilly. Walking barefoot, it was easy to catch a cold. Wei Kun personally put red satin shoes with stitched patterns on her feet. Once she was done dressing and washing up, he led her to the central building to find Changhong. Breakfast dishes were already arranged on the table in the central building. Changhong was seated behind the red-lacquered cedar round table, waiting for them with an upright posture.

Wei Luo crossed over the threshold, walking up to him impatiently. All smiles, she said: "Give me your hand, I'll give you something good."

Changhong offered his hand confused. He only saw her putting on a show of taking out a five-colored string from behind her, then lowering her eyes to carefully tie it around his wrist, making a knot at the end, "This is called a longevity bracelet. Nurse said that putting it on, all your life you'll be safe and sound."

She didn't like how plain the string was at first, so she had made Jin Lu add an east sea pearl to it. The pearl was glossy, smooth and round. Though it wasn't big, it was very valuable. This pearl had been given to Ah Luo as a birthday gift by Duke Ying, and she had stored it in a small box straight away. She couldn't bear to wear it, only occasionally taking it out to have a look. This time she was calmly giving it to Changhong, it was obvious that she wasn't a stingy person.

As Changhong heard her say the last few words, he wanted to take the bracelet off. He spoke solemnly: "I don't want it… You wear it, and be safe."

Wei Luo saw he seriously wanted to take it off, and immediately glared at him with round eyes, pursing her lips to threaten: "You can't. If you dare take it off, I'll get angry."

He froze at once.

This trick never failed. Changhong was most afraid of her anger, so whenever she threatened him like that, he would immediately turn obedient and do what he was told.

A short while later, a neatly dressed Wei Zheng walked in and sat opposite of Wei Luo. She was wearing a turquoise muslin top with weaving indigo peony patterns, her hair styled in two buns. After greeting Wei Kun, she started eating her meal. While she ate, she never spoke a word to them, but concentrated on finishing her food so she could leave. She wasn't able to get along with Wei Luo and Changhong, and the two of them also didn't pay her any attention. The atmosphere was unexpectedly peaceful that way.

Done with breakfast, Wei Kun put down his chopsticks and spoke to the children: "The day after tomorrow is the birthday banquet for the Empress, and the palace has invited our Duke house to go. The three of you should behave later, don't get in any trouble."

Wei Luo gulped a mouthful of the shredded chicken congee with mushrooms. Ever since her front tooth fell, she didn't dare eat steamed buns, afraid that the other incisor may also wind up in her belly. Having heard everything, she lowered her head slowly, and couldn't help letting her mind wander. In her previous life, she'd never had the chance to visit the palace, and naturally hadn't seen Empress Chen. She'd heard that Empress Chen possessed a noble aura, with an extraordinary bearing, dignified and magnanimous. She had stood on the battlefield side by side with Emperor Chong Zhen. She was so remarkable, but why did the Emperor favor Noble Consort Ning?

Wei Luo propped her chin up, feeling curious.

She wanted to meet this female general of Daliang, and take a look at what kind of person she was.

However, recalling that the Empress was Zhao Jie's mother, her enthusiasm waned a little.

She still hadn't forgotten that he'd mocked her, alright!

She didn't believe he'd never had his front tooth fall out, yet he still wanted to look at other people's mouths. Was it that funny? Wei Luo pouted, thinking he was really tactless.

Empress Chen celebrated her birthday on this day, the 8th of May.

In recent years, the relationship between the Empress and the Emperor was getting increasingly worse, coming to a deadlock. Everyone, without exception, was aware of the situation. Even the banquet this time couldn't compare to the splendor of the past. The birthday banquet was set up in Wild Goose house and Riverside house, beside the great lake in the Imperial palace. These two buildings were situated at the foot of a hill and beside a stream. They were richly decorated. Dazzling glazed tiles on a red roof, raised eaves, and two gaping hornless dragon sculptures lying on both ends at the very top. Looking from afar, the view was like a fairyland from a drawing, out of reach. Coming closer, one was able to see the auspicious colorful carvings of a dragon and phoenix on the two buildings, the dragon on top, and the phoenix below, twisting and turning, mounting the clouds and riding the mist.

The two houses separately received the Imperial court's ministers and officials. Wei Kun personally saw off the several children to Wild Goose house, handing them over uneasily to the fourth madam Qin: "I'll trouble you to watch over these few children, fourth sister-in-law… If you can't handle them, you can also request for a servant to look after them."

Madam Qin already had three sons, adding in Wei Luo, Wei Zheng, and Wei Changhong, it was really too much of a stretch. To begin with, Madam Du would have normally been brought to attend this sort of occasion. However, she had just committed a huge blunder. No one could convince Wei Kun to take her along, thus she remained home. Wei Zheng was without her mother, and she was still young. Arriving at the Imperial palace, she got timid, and followed blindly behind Wei Kun. She even spoke less than usual.

Madam Qin took over the group of children, and teased with a smile: "What is fifth brother-in-law saying? This isn't such a difficult thing, you can rest assured and just leave them to me."

Duke Ying's family had arrived early. At this moment, there was still nobody in front of the two buildings except for the eunuchs and servant girls bustling about, bringing fruits and pastries inside. Wei Kun saw that Madam Qin had brought three servants along, and the three children each had their Nurse with them. He was confident it was unlikely for some major event to happen, thus he nodded his head and turned around to head to the Riverside house.

Watching Wei Kun walk away, Madam Qin sighed softly.

Madam Du wasn't a good match for him. Though he was surrounded by children for so many years, his heart was missing one person, letting him feel lonely the whole time. If Jiang Miaolan was still around, Madam Du wouldn't stand a chance.

She led the children into the building while she was thinking. It looked really lively around her. With six children in total, each one speaking could drown out a person's voice. The eldest madam watched from the side, and asked with a smile: "Will you manage to take care of them all? If not, why don't you give Ah Luo and Changhong to me?"

The eldest madam only had a son, the eldest young master Wei Changyin. She didn't have a daughter, so she was very fond of the residence's young ladies.

Madam Qin pursed her lips in a smile, tactfully declining: "It's usually me looking after Ah Luo and Changhong. Most likely, there won't be any issues now."

Her voice barely fell, when Wei Zheng broke free from Madam Qin's hand and ran to the third madam Liu, "I want third aunt!"

Madam Liu was suddenly pulled by her. Surprised, she turned around to take a look, and quickly understanding what happened, smiled at Madam Qin, then brought Wei Zheng upstairs. Madam Liu had always been close to Madam Du, and she was also more affectionate with Wei Zheng. Thus, Wei Zheng would rather be close to third aunt than fourth aunt.

Madam Qin was started slightly, but soon smiled rather helplessly. She used her freed hand to hold onto Changhong, softly saying: "Let's also go upstairs."

Wild Goose house had altogether three floors. The first floor was an area for people to enjoy the sights. Upright screen murals were set up all around. At each of the four corners stood an enamel vase with flowers and birds painted on. An eight treasure lustrous couch was placed on the east side, scarlet pillows embroidered with flowers on top of it. Once Empress Chen arrived, she would sit precisely there. On the second and the third floors, several small red lacquered tables with conch ornaments were arranged in the middle. Melon seeds, peanuts, peaches and other fruits were put on these tables as snacks.

Wei Luo had just walked in following behind Madam Qin, when she caught sight of a seated little girl in a purple half sleeve silk vest over an embroidered yellow dress, focused on peeling peanuts. She peeled the shells of the peanuts in front of her, yet she didn't eat a single one, neatly arranging the peeled red skins into a goose shape. She was also around six or seven years old, with round cheeks and almond eyes. When she laughed, her cheeks would show two dimples.

Wei Luo heard the maidservant at the girl's side calling her "second Miss", and just as she intended to try and figure out which family's second miss it was, she was called over by Liang Yurong, who stood in front of her.

Liang Yurong was wearing a green short jacket weaved with gold over a white silk skirt, and her hair was styled in a round bun. She looked exquisite. The delicate manner of dress made her appear even more polished, bright and modest. She partly sat on a short couch, supporting herself on the carved rosewood armrest as she looked outside and pointed full of enthusiasm, "Look, Ah Luo, you can see the view over there."

Wei Luo accompanied her and walked over to sit down by her side. They could really see inside of the opposite side's Riverside house. Riverside house didn't have blue curtains covering everywhere like them, but was rather out in the open. The two buildings weren't far from each other, it was even possible to clearly see the actions and appearances of the people inside. Liang Yurong was quite at leisure, so she started looking for any familiar people – this one was her daddy, that one was her big brother, even found some uncle she knew… She suddenly pointed at a spot and asked: "Ah Luo, isn't that your eldest brother?"

Wei Luo followed the direction her finger was pointing at, and really seemed to see her eldest brother's figure by the lakeside. Wei Changyin was sitting in his wheelchair far in the distance, his expression couldn't be seen clearly. In front of him was standing a youth dressed in large sleeved clothes. The youth had his back to them, with his arms crossed behind him, and they couldn't see who he was.

Wei Luo nodded and was just about to speak, when she suddenly paused.

This time's Liang Yurong had barely seen her eldest brother a few times, and only held some sympathy towards him. Wei Luo recalled the deadly tragic conclusion of their story from her previous life, and leaned on her cheek as she thought. Was it possible to prevent their story from ever starting in this life? The previous life's Liang Yurong had tried so hard, but it was all useless. Rather than suffering again this time, it was better to cut off the source of these feelings from the very beginning.

She pulled Liang Yurong back, and grabbed some peanuts from the plum colored plate on the table, handing them over, "It's so far, I can't see clearly… Let's stop watching. Just eat peanuts."

Liang Yurong accepted the peanuts, and barely peeled one to eat, when she sensed someone shooting them a not too friendly look from across. She raised her head to look, and found a small girl staring at her from the other end of the table. She was confused, so she blinked her eyes and generously offered the well-peeled peanut, "Do you also want to eat?"

Who could have imagined, the opposite party didn't want to eat, rather the "Picture of a Wild Goose in Flight" was not yet finished. A bunch of peanuts had been seized by Wei Luo from the plate, thus there weren't enough now. She pushed the pile of peanuts before her in a huff, and the drawing arrangement she had spent half a day on instantly disappeared without a trace. Pouting, she said: "I won't draw, won't draw!"

It turned out, this little miss was the second miss from Duke Zhen's house, named Gao Qingyang. She was close in age to Wei Luo and Liang Yurong, as she was also six years old. Duke Zhen's wife was Empress Chen's younger sister. She didn't have any sons, only two daughters. However, because Duke Zhen's wife was related to Empress Chen through her maternal line, her position couldn't be threatened. In these many years, Duke Zhen only accepted a single concubine, and even if the concubine gave birth to a son, the child would be fostered under her own name. Duke Zhen's wife doted on her two daughters. Besides the little one, there was also the older daughter named Gao Danyang. Gao Danyang was 14 this year, rumored to be incomparably charming, a first-class beauty.

Right now, Gao Qingyang was angry. Liang Yurong wasn't fawning over her like others, instead she was curiously asking her: "Do you still want these peanuts?"

She humphed, "Don't want."

Seeing Liang Yurong wrapping a bunch of peanuts in a silk handkerchief, Gao Qingyang thought she wanted to eat them. Just about to say a few mocking words, Liang Yurong opened her mouth to speak: "Ah Luo, let's go feed kittens in the back. When I came here a moment ago, I saw there were many kittens, very pretty, behind this building."

Anyway, there was nothing to do upstairs, and they didn't know when Empress Chen would arrive. Wei Luo nodded her assent and asked the standing nearby Madam Qin, "Fourth aunt, can I go down to play awhile?"

Madam Qin was speaking with some people from Marquis Dingling's residence. When she heard the question she hesitated, but then she saw the little girl's hopeful face. Moreover, others also had their children go downstairs, so she ended up agreeing. She still didn't feel assured, so she let two older servants go along with them, and urged Wei Luo: "Don't go far, you must come back soon."

Two dimples appeared as Wei Luo smiled and sounded a crisp 'okay'.

Left behind, Gao Qingyang couldn't say a thing, and choked instead, as she angrily stared at them departing. She was just about to grab the peanuts set on the table and throw them, when a person suddenly stopped in front of her. Changhong's small face looked strict. A pair of pitch-black eyes below long eyelashes were looking at her, as he blocked her hand saying: "You can't."

Gao Qingyang hadn't seen him before, and asked automatically: "Can't what?"

He didn't speak, as he truly was a person of few words. However, he very earnestly pried her hand open, took the peanuts she held, and dropped them onto the table. After that, without even glancing at her, he turned around to follow after Wei Luo down the stairs.

Gao Qingyang was watching him walk away, when her reaction finally caught up. Fine, they're all just a bunch of kids!

Wei Luo followed Liang Yurong downstairs and along a cobblestone lane. Not far in the distance, there really were two or three snow white kittens under the dark red scarlet banana flowers.

The kittens were very small, evidently only a few months old. Lying on top of the fresh green grass, they evoked some tender feelings. There weren't any palace maids around, who knew whether anyone was taking care of these cats. Liang Yurong crouched in front of them and couldn't help but reach out to pet them, "Ah Luo, these cats are so pretty, their fur is completely white. Quickly come look."

Wei Luo wasn't that fond of furry little things. She had only come out, because staying behind in the house would be too boring. Hearing Liang Yurong speak, she hesitated for a long time, then slowly approached to crouch in front of the kittens. The three kittens were really very pretty, the eyes were sapphire blue, the whole body was snow white. Seemingly aware that she was looking at them, they were eagerly gazing back at her.

Those eyes were too innocent. Looking at them for a long time could make a person captivated.

It was the first time Wei Luo got interested in a kitten. She reached out a hand wanting to touch its ears, but it unexpectedly extended its claws and pounced on her arm. Wei Luo had a scare and immediately jumped up, subconsciously wishing to throw off that cat. But knowing those cats showed up in the palace, and were furthermore such a rare breed, it was certain that there was someone raising them, whether it was an Imperial concubine, or a princess. If the cat got injured by getting dropped, it would likely lead to trouble. With no better options, her body stiffened up as she tried to put the cat back to its original place, but the kitten stuck to her. Closely clinging on and not letting go, and even stretching its tongue to take a lick of the back of her hand.

…She was not tasty!

Wei Luo called out to Liang Yurong: "Help me take it off…"

Her whole arm was covered in goosebumps. She really wasn't fond of small furry animals, after all.

Seeing this, Liang Yurong howled with laughter. She not only didn't help, but actually got comfortable to watch the show. Wei Luo thought of asking Changhong for help, but soon after he had come out, Changhong had been called over by some people around Wei Kun. She couldn't do anything about it, and was licked by this small kitten again. This was what isolated and helpless felt like!

Liang Yurong noticed Wei Luo's eyes reddening slightly, and restrained her laughter as she got ready to help her. Right as she was about to move, she heard a clear and sonorous female voice coming from the front: "Who are you two? Why are you here?"

Liang Yurong raised her head, only to see a young lady dressed in a cherry colored gilded dress standing not too far behind the scarlet banana flowers. She was watching the white kitten on Wei Luo's arm with wrinkled brows. She was about 13 or 14 years old, with black hair and snowy skin, clear eyes and white teeth, both charming and delicate, stirringly beautiful.

"We…" Thinking she was the cat's owner, the dazed Liang Yurong was about to answer, when that girl walked up to Wei Luo and reached out to take the cat off her arm.

The girl said: "This cat isn't yours to touch."

She turned to look behind and spoke discontentedly: "Cousin Jing, how can you raise the cats in this kind of place? I gave them to you, don't you care at least a little about them?"

Ten steps behind her was Zhao Jie, wearing a weaved with gold azure robe with clouds pattern brocade, his stature tall and straight. He remained unmoved by her words, as his vision actually fell on the frowning little face of Wei Luo, who stood beside her.

Correction: The eldest miss was apparently not the eldest madam's daughter. In her introduction, the sentence was saying she was out with the eldest madam in preparation for her wedding, but I took the words to mean something else. It's been corrected now. I'll do the family tree later. Since I've started translating, I gradually got more used to it and avoid making errors. I was still unsure of many things in the beginning chapters…

Note: Munchkin helped a lot with translating and editing the first part of this chapter. There might be a sudden appearance of grammatical mistakes after that, since I was in a hurry to post the chapter (after making everyone wait for months) and I haven't let her go over everything yet. I wonder how mad she is at me…