After Losing Her Husband, She Turned the Petty Villains in the Marquis

by Usui Takumii

not mine, asia novels. Total:474 chapters. Beware MTL with some editing.

1. 00 to 10

Description

When Tang Shuyi is transported to another world, she finds herself in the body of the wife of Marquis Yongning in the Daqian Dynasty. With wealth, power, and status, and without in-laws or a living husband, she seems to have hit the jackpot of transmigration. Just as she begins to relish her life as a wealthy and noble lady, she discovers she's actually in a novel – as its greatest villain.

Not only does she possess wealth, power, and status, but she also has three unruly children. The eldest is lovesick, the second a notorious playboy in the capital, and the youngest daughter is arrogant and domineering. She herself is destined to die soon, leading to the fall of the marquis' title and a tragic end for her children.

Tang Shuyi takes a deep breath, rolls up her sleeves, and gets to work!

We follow her journey as she disciplines her wayward children and navigates life as a noblewoman in ancient times, balancing wealth and leisure.

Chapter 1: The Pinnacle of Transmigration

Tang Shuyi had transmigrated.

At this moment, she was languidly reclining on a golden-threaded nanmu embroidered couch, surrounded by four or five maidservants. Some massaged her shoulders, fanned her, rubbed her legs, and one was even dedicated to peeling grapes for her…

She took a grape handed to her by a maidservant, bit it gently and then sucked it in. The soft, tender flesh of the grape burst in her mouth, its sweetness tinged with a hint of sourness, delighting her spirits.

Tang Shuyi's mood was far beyond mere pleasure; she was so happy she could jump for joy.

Who wouldn't be overjoyed? A person who had been worked to death in her previous life now had the chance to transmigrate and lie down in luxury right after arriving.

In her previous life, Tang Shuyi was a true overachiever, a real grinder.

She graduated from an ordinary university and, by sheer fluke, got a job at a foreign corporation. She started as a sales assistant, and after eight years of relentless work, day and night, she became the CEO of the Greater China region of this multinational company.

But just as she was settling into her new role, she… died from overwork.

Thinking back, Tang Shuyi felt it was utterly unfair. She had worked tirelessly, getting up early and staying up late, to earn her luxury cars and mansions, but she hadn't enjoyed them for long before she kicked the bucket.

It was years of hard work and struggle, and then suddenly, back to…

No, she hadn't gone back to the 'dark ages'; she was now the Marchioness of the Yongning Marquis Estate in the great Qian Dynasty. She had wealth, status, children, no father-in-law or mother-in-law to deal with, and crucially, her husband was dead, making her the supreme ruler of the Marquis Estate.

Ha ha!

At this thought, Tang Shuyi pressed down on her curling lips; she was afraid she'd burst out laughing. The feeling of gaining without toiling was truly blissful, immensely blissful.

This must be the pinnacle of transmigration, right?

As she placed another grape to her lips, Tang Shuyi heard her maidservant Cuicui say, "Madam, I heard that Miss Wu Er fell into the water yesterday and has been unconscious ever since."

Tang Shuyi pulled her thoughts back from her excitement over her unearned gains and rummaged through her brain to remember who Miss Wu Er was. This person must be related to her; otherwise, Cuicui wouldn't have mentioned her for no reason.

She had received the memories of her body's original owner, but there was a lot of information, and she hadn't fully sorted it all out yet.

After finishing a grape, she finally remembered who this Miss Wu Er was: her eldest son's fiancée.

"How did she fall into the water?" Tang Shuyi shifted her body to the side, adopting the posture of someone ready to hear gossip.

"The word from the Wu family is that Miss Wu Er was playing by the lakeside and accidentally fell into the water," Cuicui said, pinching a grape and offering it to Tang Shuyi.

Tang Shuyi's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Wow, this is like a real-life mansion intrigue," she thought. In novels, young ladies being pushed into the water or drugged was a common trope.

Wait, before she transmigrated, she was listening to a novel to help her sleep, in which the heroine was also surnamed Wu and was reborn after drowning.

Could it really be such a coincidence?

"What is Miss Wu Er's given name?" Tang Shuyi asked Cuicui as if it were an offhand question.

Cuicui looked slightly startled, wondering why her lady would forget Miss Wu Er's personal name, but she respectfully answered, "Miss Wu Er's given name is Wu Jingyun."

Tang Shuyi's hand clenched the handkerchief she was holding; the heroine in the novel she had been listening to was named Wu Jingyun.

Silently exhaling, she asked further, "What is the name of the eldest son?"

This time, not only Cuicui but all the maids in the room were shocked. How could the lady forget the name of the eldest son?

Tang Shuyi didn't get an answer; she turned her head and saw astonishment on the faces of the maids. She knew her behavior must seem strange to them, but she had to confirm whether she had really transmigrated into a novel.

"You don't know?" Tang Shuyi looked at Cuicui with a light gaze, as if engaging in casual talk, but Cuicui felt a surge of tension and quickly said, "This servant knows, the eldest son's name is Xiao Yuchen."

The madam's aura today was overwhelming!

Tang Shuyi's mind went blank for a moment; in the novel she had been listening to, the main male supporting character was named Xiao Yuchen.

"Has the eldest son gone to Meihua Alley again?" Tang Shuyi inquired further. In that book, Xiao Yuchen had secretly settled his childhood sweetheart in a house in Meihua Alley.

The room fell silent, as quiet as if enveloped in the chill of winter, the maids' breathing barely audible.

"You don't know?" Tang Shuyi looked at Cuicui again.

Cuicui grew even more nervous, stammering, "This servant… this servant doesn't know."

Tang Shuyi silently exhaled. It seemed that Meihua Alley did exist, and Xiao Yuchen likely visited often; Cuicui was just too afraid to say so.

Wu Jingyun, Xiao Yuchen, Yongning Marquis Estate, Meihua Alley...

She had indeed transmigrated into a novel!

"All of you, leave," Tang Shuyi gestured. Although Cuicui was puzzled by the madam's behavior today, she still bowed and quietly left. Following her departure, the remaining maids also left in silence.

Left alone in the room, Tang Shuyi collapsed onto the brocaded couch and cursed bluntly, "Damn it!"

Thinking of just lying low?

Lying low my foot!

She had not only transmigrated into a book but also became a villain, and not just any villain—she and her entire family were the main antagonists.

Running through the plot in her head, Tang Shuyi felt like swearing again. As the wife of a marquis, she indeed had wealth, status, and children, but each one of her children was a source of endless headaches!

Her eldest son, as the heir to the marquisate, was lovestruck to the point of almost severing ties with his family for a childhood sweetheart. Her second son was known throughout the capital as a notorious wastrel, uneducated and only interested in fooling around. Even her youngest daughter, only eight, had already developed a domineering attitude.

As for herself, she was destined to fall ill and die soon. Afterward, the marquisate would be stripped of its title, and her three children would meet fates more tragic than the last.

Damn it, she couldn't have been dealt a worse hand.

Lying listlessly on the brocaded couch for a while, Tang Shuyi turned her head to take in the luxury of her room: furniture made of golden Phoebe nanmu wood, a cloisonné screen inlaid with jade, famous calligraphy and paintings hanging on the walls, and even her drinking cup was made of fine green jade. Truly, it was a life of golden splendor!

But this life of extreme wealth wasn't all that easy to live!

Tang Shuyi wasn't one to get discouraged. If she could rise from a mere sales assistant to the president of Greater China, what was this little challenge?

Taking a deep breath, Tang Shuyi sat up straight, her fighting spirit rekindled! There were no gains without pains in life. If she wanted to enjoy the lavish life of an ancient noblewoman, she had to roll up her sleeves and get to work!

It's not about having a bad hand, but how you play it. The kids are a handful, are they? Then she'll have to discipline them strictly. She had managed a company of thousands; how could she not handle three unruly kids?

And as for the soon-to-be reborn heroine, if she was going to target the marquisate right after her rebirth, just as she did in the book, then Tang Shuyi wouldn't be soft-hearted either. Sometimes being the villain could be quite exhilarating.

Leaning lazily on the brocaded couch again, Tang Shuyi began to sort through the content of the book. The heroine, Wu Jingyun, would soon be reborn, and her first order of business would be to break off her engagement with Tang Shuyi's nominal eldest son, Xiao Yuchen.

Wu Jingyun's previous life had been stifling; naturally, she wouldn't simply break off the engagement. She planned to deal a heavy blow to the Yongning Marquisate in the process. Her leverage was that Xiao Yuchen was harboring the daughter of a convicted traitor, Liu Biqin.

Harboring the family of a convicted traitor was no minor crime. Even with the Yongning Marquisate's roots in the capital, they would suffer a significant blow. In the book, this incident marked the beginning of the marquisate's downfall.

Narrowing her eyes, Tang Shuyi realized that she had to deal with this matter sooner rather than later to prevent catastrophe.

Thinking of the plot in the book, Tang Shuyi sighed again. It was understandable for the heroine, Wu Jingyun, who had a miserable previous life, ignored by Xiao Yuchen and framed by Liu Biqin, to seek revenge after her rebirth.

But the crux of the matter was that in the book, her revenge wasn't just against Xiao Yuchen alone but against the entire marquisate. If Tang Shuyi didn't intervene, she might not just be unable to lie low—she could die prematurely.

Chapter 2: The Second Son and the Younger Daughter

"Mother~"

A seven or eight-year-old girl with double buns and delicate, snowy skin flung herself into her embrace. Tang Shuyi was startled; after being single for over thirty years, suddenly becoming a mother was quite the adjustment.

"Mother~" The little girl sensed the stiffness in her mother's body and looked up with her sparkling, large eyes, instantly melting Tang Shuyi's heart.

Well, she was now the Lady of Yongning Marquis, a noblewoman with wealth and three children. This was the reality she had to accept.

Softening, Tang Shuyi embraced the little girl and asked with a smile, "Finished with school? What did you learn today?"

"Mother, can we replace Tutor Zhuang?" Xiao Yuzhu pouted, her face a picture of grievance, but her darting eyes betrayed her true feelings.

Tang Shuyi knew from her memories that this daughter was somewhat haughty. However, she didn't outright reject the idea of replacing Tutor Zhuang, instead gently patting her back and asking, "Why do you want a new tutor?"

"His knowledge is poor, he..."

"Tell the truth, no lying," Tang Shuyi interrupted Xiao Yuzhu, her tone growing stern.

Tutor Zhuang had been recommended by her father, Duke Tang. He was a scholar with a widespread reputation for his knowledge. It was improbable that he was not learned.

Xiao Yuzhu pouted in response to her mother's gentle reprimand, choosing to remain silent. Tang Shuyi wasn't one to indulge her, so she looked towards Liu Mama, who stood to the side. Liu Mama was Xiao Yuzhu's wet nurse and had remained to become her housekeeper after weaning.

"My Lady, our young miss suffered a great injustice today," Liu Mama said with a pained expression, glancing at Xiao Yuzhu. "This afternoon, Tutor Zhuang praised the illegitimate daughter of the Second Master, and she flaunted it in front of our young miss. Our miss, unable to tolerate this, retorted and was scolded by the tutor. My Lady, you must stand up for our young miss!"

Liu Mama's eyes darted about as she spoke, clearly not a trustworthy character. Nonetheless, Tang Shuyi did not expose her, simply saying, "I am aware of the matter, you may leave."

After she left, Tang Shuyi looked down and asked Xiao Yuzhu, "What homework did the tutor assign?"

Seeing that Tang Shuyi wasn't paying her any further attention, Liu Mama felt somewhat disgruntled but dared not show it, quietly retreating instead. Tang Shuyi caught this from the corner of her eye and then heard Xiao Yuzhu whisper, "Tutor assigned twenty large characters for me to write."

"That many!" Tang Shuyi exclaimed.

Xiao Yuzhu nodded with a pitiful expression. Tang Shuyi stood up, took her by the hand, and headed towards the study, "It just so happens I want to practice calligraphy too. Let's do it together."

Xiao Yuzhu wanted to complain further, but she was already being pulled into the study by Tang Shuyi. The maid Cuicloud swiftly prepared the ink and paper, and Tang Shuyi sat down to write. Xiao Yuzhu had no choice but to follow suit.

After writing two characters, Tang Shuyi glanced at Cuicloud, who understood and summoned Cuizhu to wait outside before leaving the courtyard.

Tang Shuyi was very satisfied; her two main maids were perceptive and handled matters efficiently.

It took half an hour to write twenty characters, but finally, it was done. Tang Shuyi examined Xiao Yuzhu's writing: square and upright, each stroke neat and tidy. For an eight-year-old, this was quite impressive.

She smiled and praised the little girl a few times, and finally, a smile appeared on the little girl's face. Her delicate face, already pretty, shone even brighter with a smile. This child was a beauty in the making.

Just then, a loud male voice came from outside, "Mother, hurry up and let them serve the meal, I'm starving to death."

"Oh dear, Second Young Master, where have you been? How did your clothes get so tattered?"

Hearing Cuicloud's somewhat anxious voice, Tang Shuyi quickly walked out, with Xiao Yuzhu following behind, a schadenfreude expression on her face.

As Tang Shuyi approached the doorway, she saw a tall, robust teenager around fourteen or fifteen years old, standing in the yard with a leg dangling, exuding a ruffian air. His blue robe was as tattered as if a dog had gnawed it.

This was her second son, Xiao Yuming.

Tang Shuyi was mentally prepared for this infamous prodigal second son from the capital. His street ruffian-like appearance fitted his persona well. So Tang Shuyi spoke relatively calmly, "What happened to you?"

"Got into a fight with Qi Er," Xiao Yuming said nonchalantly, "I didn't lose, that kid Qi Er got his face scratched up."

Tang Shuyi silently took a deep breath, suppressing the urge to hit him, and waved her hand, "Go change your clothes quickly."

"Mother, I'm hungry, let's eat first," Xiao Yuming said, heading towards the small hall. Hungry enough to feel his front stick to his back, why bother changing clothes?

"Change your clothes before eating," Tang Shuyi said, leaving no room for argument. She couldn't indulge him, coming back from a fight and still expecting to be treated well.

She stood with an imposing aura, and Xiao Yuming paused for a moment before whispering, "Mother, what's wrong?"

"What could be wrong?" Tang Shuyi's heart skipped a beat. Had this boy noticed something?

"You've got quite the presence, almost comparable to my father," Xiao Yuming said with a grin.

Tang Shuyi swatted at him, "I am your father right now, go change your clothes, or you'll be punished."

"Alright, alright, I'm going," Xiao Yuming hurried into the room, grabbing a couple of pastries and stuffing them into his mouth as he ran off.

Watching her second son run off, then turning to look at her little daughter standing beside her, Tang Shuyi could imagine how lively and chaotic her life would be in the future.

She instructed the maids to set the meal, then said to Cuijing, "Go to the front yard and see if Yuchen is there. If he is, ask him to come for the meal."

Cuizhu promptly went out as instructed, and Tang Shuyi had the maids lead Xiao Yuzhu to wash her hands while she entered the inner room. Following her, Cuicloud fetched a towel, dampened it, wrung it out, and handed it to her, then began to report on the gossip she had gathered:

"I inquired around and learned that this afternoon, Master Zhuang asked Miss some questions in class. When she couldn't answer, Master Zhuang turned to the Fourth Young Miss from the Second Master's household. After she answered correctly, the Miss felt humiliated and, during the break, she mocked the Fourth Young Miss, implying that a concubine-born girl shouldn't try to steal the limelight. She even pushed her, causing the Fourth Young Miss to fall to the ground.

Coincidentally, Master Zhuang witnessed this and reprimanded the Miss, even punishing her to write large characters. I suspect that the Fourth Young Miss is not as simple as she seems; how could it be such a coincidence that she fell just as Master Zhuang was watching?"

Cuicloud, having been around the mansion's backyards, was well-versed in these little schemes.

Tang Shuyi dried her hands with the towel. In ancient times, there was a huge disparity between legitimate and illegitimate children. It was normal for Xiao Yuzhu, as the sole legitimate daughter of a marquis, to feel superior to concubine-born girls.

However, her hostility towards someone better than her, and even resorting to physical aggression, was definitely overbearing. Such behavior couldn't be condoned.

As for that Fourth Young Miss, whether it was intentional or not, what she needed to teach Xiao Yuzhu was how to read people and know what to do with different individuals.

After drying her hands and passing the towel back to Cuicloud, Tang Shuyi said, "Regardless of how simple that fourth girl is, Yuzhu is in the wrong. She needs to change this temperament. All of you should be more vigilant in the future."

Her tone was serious, and Cuicloud knew she meant business, promptly acknowledging the order.

Standing up, Tang Shuyi instructed, "Keep a close eye on the people in Yuzhu's courtyard, especially Nurse Liu."

Cuicloud respectfully assented, then followed Tang Shuyi into the dining hall. The meal had been served; Xiao Yuzhu and Xiao Yuming sat on the chairs, exuding an air of mutual antagonism. Tang Shuyi observed everything silently and took her seat at the head of the table. Seeing this, the two unruly children came over to sit beside her.

At this moment, Cuizhu came in and reported, "The eldest young master has not returned to the mansion yet."

"Where did he go?" Tang Shuyi asked as she picked up her chopsticks. This eldest son was the one who needed strict discipline; otherwise, she couldn't maintain her status as a noblewoman.

Xiao Yuming, who had been hungry for a while, started eating heartily at the sight of her picking up her chopsticks. Xiao Yuzhu whispered from the side, calling him a glutton, to which Xiao Yuming shot her a fierce glare.

Ignoring the children's squabble, Tang Shuyi listened as Cuizhu hesitantly replied, "The servants in the eldest young master's courtyard said… said they don't know."

"They don't know?" Tang Shuyi snorted, "He must have gone to the Plum Blossom Lane, and they dare not speak of it."

Xiao Yuchen hid his childhood sweetheart in Plum Blossom Lane. The original body knew and despised her, but due to the concern for her son, she refrained from acting out.

But Tang Shuyi was not her predecessor. The stepson was not her own flesh and blood, so she wouldn't concern herself with his feelings. She snorted, "Go tell Changming, give him half an hour to bring his master back, or don't bother returning at all."

As enemies were about to strike, Xiao Yuchen was still lost in romantic trifles!

Seeing Tang Shuyi's genuine anger, Cuizhu hurriedly ran to the front courtyard to find Changming, who was one of Xiao Yuchen's close attendants and naturally knew his whereabouts.

Chapter 3: Filial Piety

Xiao Yuchen's courtyard, named Qingfeng Garden, was situated in the prime location of the marquis' front estate. With its rustling bamboo leaves, rockery corridors, and elegant waterside pavilions, it was a sight of refined beauty. At this moment, under the corridor of the garden, Changming was speaking with the maid Ziling. With their master away, they had relaxed quite a bit.

Ziling commented, "That woman from Plum Blossom Alley really has a way with men, keeping the eldest young master there all day. Even with Miss Wu from the second branch falling into the water and lying unconscious, she doesn't allow the young master to visit."

Changming snorted with a hint of derision, "I think you're just sour. That woman is the apple of the young master's eye. No one can come between them... not even... Miss Cuizhu…"

Upon seeing Cuizhu standing at the entrance of the courtyard, Changming and Ziling quickly stood upright. As the head maid of the Marchioness, Cuizhu held a high status among the household servants, and they could not afford to offend her.

They just didn't know if Cuizhu had overheard their conversation.

As they anxiously wondered, they heard Cuizhu scoff, "You two are old enough to know better. What should be said and what should not—do you not know? Be careful or the Marchioness will find out and tear your mouths apart."

The people in the young master's courtyard are really losing their manners.

Hearing Cuizhu's words tightened both Changming and Ziling's chests. They knew all too well how much the Marchioness detested that woman from Plum Blossom Alley, a name almost taboo within the household.

"Miss Cuizhu, we were wrong, we truly realize our mistake."

"Yes, yes, we won't dare do it again."

They begged Cuizhu for mercy, who had no time to waste on other matters, and said to Changming, "The Marchioness has given you half an hour to bring back the young master. Otherwise, neither you nor he need bother returning."

Upon hearing this, Changming was stunned. The Marchioness was truly furious. Although she disliked the young master visiting Plum Blossom Alley, she had never before sent someone to fetch him, fearing it would embarrass him.

Seeing him frozen, Cuizhu urged urgently, "What are you standing there for? Go quickly."

Coming to his senses, Changming dashed off. It would take more than a quarter of an hour to reach Plum Blossom Alley from the marquis' estate, and time was very tight for the round trip.

After Changming left, Cuizhu cast a meaningful glance at Ziling, then turned and left the courtyard. In her opinion, the people from the young master's courtyard really needed to be kept in line.

Changming ran as fast as he could to the entrance of Plum Blossom Alley and saw another attendant of Xiao Yuchen, Changfeng, leisurely drinking tea at a stall by the road, his legs crossed in ease. Grinding his teeth, Changming panted as he rushed over, dragging him towards the alley.

"What's gotten into you? Chased by a dog?" Changfeng asked with a teasing grin.

Catching his breath, Changming whispered urgently, "Quickly go call the young master back to the estate. The Marchioness said if he doesn't return within half an hour, he need not return at all."

With Changfeng's startled reaction, it was evident that the Marchioness had always been considerate of the eldest son's dignity. Despite her aversion to those living in Plum Blossom Alley, she had never before sent someone to fetch him. This must mean she was truly angered.

"Has the madam become angry again?" Changfeng inquired.

"It seems so. It was Miss Cuizhu, the madam's personal maid, who sent the message. Hurry up and call the young master; don't waste any time," Changming was nearly frantic.

Without further delay, Changfeng sprinted towards the residence at the very end of the alley. With the lord away, the entire mansion relied on the madam's support. Who dared disobey the madam's orders?

Arriving at the entrance of the residence, he gently knocked. Soon, a young maid in green opened the door and cheerfully said, "Oh, it's you, Brother Changfeng! The young master is dining with our miss. Would you like to come in and wait?"

"I have urgent business with the young master," Changfeng said as he entered.

He frequently accompanied Xiao Yuchen to this residence and was well-acquainted with its layout. Within moments, he reached the small floral hall. The door was ajar, revealing Liu Biqin smiling radiantly as she served Xiao Yuchen some dishes.

With arching willow brows, affectionate eyes, skin as creamy as jade, and lips as tender as peach blossoms, she was indeed a vision of delicate beauty, soft as a willow and fair as a lotus blossom.

Standing at the doorway, Changfeng dared not linger his gaze and bowed his head, calling out, "Young Master."

Xiao Yuchen's usually stern face was now so tender it seemed as if it could drip with gentleness. After accepting the dish from Liu Biqin, he turned and asked Changfeng at the door, "What is it?"

Changfeng hesitated, struggling to find the right words.

Xiao Yuchen's brows furrowed slightly, "Speak plainly."

Changfeng: "..."

My lord, can't you read the room? If I could say it outright, I would have already! But time was pressing, and even if it embarrassed the young master, he had to speak up, "Young Master, the madam has ordered you to return home immediately."

Xiao Yuchen's expression darkened slightly as he responded indifferently, "Go back and inform my mother that I will return later."

Xiao Yuchen felt a surge of displeasure. It was evident his mother knew of his whereabouts and was angered. But why couldn't she understand him? Miss Qin was all alone and confined to the residence in the capital, engulfed in solitude every day. Was it wrong for him to visit and cheer her up?

After all, their families had been close friends, and when the Liu family faced charges, it was their duty to assist. How could they sever ties just because of the Liu family's downfall? Besides, he and Miss Qin had been childhood sweethearts; how could years of affection be so easily discarded?

He had already agreed to an engagement with Miss Wu, so why couldn't his mother accommodate a place for Miss Qin?

The more Xiao Yuchen thought, the angrier he became.

Changfeng was on the verge of desperation. Ever since the lord's departure, the madam had been holding up the mansion. Frankly, the mansion now stood on the support of the madam's natal family, the Tang Duke's household.

In the current state of affairs, the madam's word was law, and who dared to defy her?

"Young Master, the Lady has sent Changming with a message. She has given you half an hour; if you do not return within this time, then we are not to return at all." Changfeng delivered the message reluctantly, his head bowed, not daring to meet Xiao Yuchen's gaze.

Xiao Yuchen's face flushed with embarrassment. He had never been so humiliated in front of Liu Biqin before. However, this stalemate was making it all the more unbearable.

Clearing his throat, he stood up and said to Liu Biqin, "Sister Qin, I must return home now. I'll visit you again when I have the time."

Liu Biqin smiled and nodded understandingly, "The Lady... your mother must be urgently in need of you. You should hurry back."

Seeing her so considerate, Xiao Yuchen felt a warmth in his heart but also found his mother's demands quite pressing.

"Brother Chen, wait a moment," she said. "I've made a forehead band for the Lady. Could you please take it to her?" Saying this, she quickly returned to her bedroom and brought out a forehead band, handing it to Xiao Yuchen with a tentative expression.

Xiao Yuchen looked down to see a blue, cloud-patterned forehead band, exquisitely cut, with fine stitching, and a red ruby in the center that added elegance and nobility to it. It was very suitable for his mother.

He recognized the red ruby—it was a birthday gift he had given to Sister Qin. She had adored it, and now, to his surprise, she had used it to craft a gift for his mother, a testament to her filial piety.

Xiao Yuchen's heart warmed as he heard Liu Biqin say cautiously, "I know that ever since my family's misfortune, the Lady has taken a dislike to me, but I have always remembered her kindness to me."

Xiao Yuchen felt moved and guilty upon hearing this, and he also thought his mother was somewhat mercenary. He raised his hand to gently touch Liu Biqin's head, saying softly, "Mother hasn't come around yet, but I'll persuade her. It will be alright."

Liu Biqin smiled radiantly, "I know the Lady is a very good person."

Xiao Yuchen's heart was a mix of sweetness, sourness, and bitterness—so complicated. Why was fate so unfair, allowing such a good girl as Sister Qin to suffer such family misfortunes? But it didn't matter; he was there for her.

"Young Master, we should hurry back," Changfeng urged, almost jumping with impatience as he saw the two still dawdling.

Xiao Yuchen knew it was time to leave. After giving Liu Biqin a few more instructions, he quickly followed Changfeng out of the yard. Changming had the carriage ready at the door. "Young Master, hurry! We're running out of time," he said, hopping from foot to foot.

Chapter 4: What Punishment You Deserve!

Liu Biqin stood at the doorway, clutching a handkerchief, watching as Xiao Yuchen hastily boarded the carriage, helped by Changfeng, concern and reluctance written all over her face.

Xiao Yuchen lifted the carriage curtain and waved to her, "Go back inside. Don't let the wind chill you."

Liu Biqin smiled and nodded, but she remained in place. Xiao Yuchen's face also showed his reluctance, but he nonetheless signaled Changming to drive on.

Liu Biqin watched the carriage disappear down Plum Blossom Lane, her face shedding its look of concern and reluctance. She turned and said indifferently to her maid, "Let's go back."

The maid acknowledged with a "yes," closed the door, and then slid the bolt into place.

As the daughter of a convicted traitor, Liubi Qin was supposed to be sold off, but Xiao Yuchen pulled some strings to hide her away in this place. She dared not venture out casually. Apart from potentially implicating Xiao Yuchen, she herself could be captured if discovered. And the consequences would be far grimmer than being sold off.

Once inside the small parlor, seated at the dining table, Liubi Qin had lost all appetite. Seeing this, her maid said, "The Marchioness is truly mercenary. In the past, she'd invite you over to the Marquis's residence every few days, eager to have you marry into their household as soon as possible. But the moment trouble arose, she showed her true colors. Thankfully, the young master still cares for you."

Twisting a handkerchief in her hands, a cold smirk curled at the corners of Liubi Qin's mouth. "Aren't all people the same, exalting or trampling others based on fortune? The noble Marchioness is no exception."

"But the young master holds you dear in his heart. Can parents truly override their child's wishes?" The maid spoke with a hint of smugness in her voice, certain that despite the Marchioness's disdain for her mistress, she was powerless against her.

A pleased look flashed across Liubi Qin's face, but she retorted, "In the future, the entire Marquis's estate will belong to Brother Chen. Who can stand against him?"

The maid giggled, "Miss, you're absolutely right."

Feeling much better, Liubi Qin stood up and walked towards the inner chamber. As long as she held Xiao Yuchen's heart, what was there to fear from the Marchioness?

Meanwhile, Changming sped back to the Marquis's estate in the carriage, causing Xiao Yuchen to feel so jostled he was nearly sick. Assisted by Changfeng, he disembarked and hurried to Tang Shuyi's courtyard. By the time he arrived, Tang Shuyi had finished her meal and was speaking softly with Xiao Yuzhu.

"Young Master." The little maid guarding the entrance immediately curtsied upon seeing Xiao Yuchen.

Xiao Yuchen strode directly into the hall and greeted Tang Shuyi with a bow, "Mother."

Tang Shuyi looked up at him and then paused in surprise. The book mentioned numerous times that Xiao Yuchen, this male supporting character, had exceptional looks, which was why Wu Jingyun was infatuated with him in her previous life. But seeing him in person, Tang Shuyi was still taken aback; he was extraordinarily handsome.

His skin was as pale as jade, his eyebrows and eyes were delicate, his nose was high and straight, and his lips were as red as coral. He was more delicate than most women, yet not a trace of femininity marred his bearing. Coupled with his tall and straight figure, he was truly a jade-like young master.

If he were to enter the entertainment industry in the modern era, even without any skills, just with that face, he could be famous for a lifetime.

"Mother." Seeing her staring blankly at him, Xiao Yuchen called out again.

Tang Shuyi snapped back to reality, then stood up with a somber expression, "Come with me."

Handsome people often soften hearts, but who was Tang Shuyi? Having clawed her way up from the bottom to the top of a multinational corporation, her heart was as hard as stone. How could she go soft over someone's appearance?

This exceedingly handsome eldest son was a troublemaker. If she didn't straighten him out, their family would be ruined.

Xiao Yuchen followed Tang Shuyi, realizing they were heading towards the ancestral hall. He felt a surge of anger within. Was it really necessary for his mother to be this upset just because he spent some time with Sister Qin?

"Mother, you watched Sister Qin grow up; you know her character better than anyone," Xiao Yuchen tried to reason with Tang Shuyi. "Since the Liu family's downfall, you've arranged for my betrothal to Miss Wu. I've agreed. I hope you'll allow Sister Qin into our residence."

Tang Shuyi halted and regarded him coldly. The seventeen-year-old boy still bore traces of youthful naivety, evidently overprotected. At seventeen, he would've just graduated from high school in the modern world, still cocooned in an ivory tower, ignorant of the hardships of life.

But education in ancient times was different, especially the elite education of great families and clans, which placed a greater emphasis on the cultivation of strategy and cunning. They started learning at the age of three, memorized poetry at five, and delved into classics and histories by seven or eight. By the age of seventeen or eighteen, they were even eligible to take the imperial examinations. Yet, Xiao Yuchen's mind was still filled with frivolous thoughts of romance and beauty.

"Mother, Sister Qin has always cherished your kindness, she..."

"Silence!"

Tang Shuyi had no desire to converse with this lovesick fool, turning instead to continue towards the ancestral hall, with Xiao Yuchen having no choice but to follow.

The Xiao family hadn't been rooted in the capital for long; a few decades prior, they were mere peasants. The rise of the Xiao family began with Xiao Yuchen's grandfather, Xiao Chengkun. He fought alongside the former emperor to establish the dynasty and was then ennobled as the Marquis of Yongning, a hereditary title.

The ancestral hall of the Xiao family was grand, but there were only three memorial tablets on the offering table: the old Marquis, the old Marchioness, and the tablet of Xiao Yuchen's father, Xiao Huai.

Night had begun to fall, and even with several candles lit, the interior remained dim. In the spacious room, mother and son stood silently before the three tablets. Tang Shuyi once again confronted her new identity, while Xiao Yuchen appeared indifferent.

Tang Shuyi noted his unconcerned expression and narrowed her eyes. Turning to him, she said indifferently, "Kneel."

"Mother, what are you trying to do?" Xiao Yuchen felt Tang Shuyi was making a mountain out of a molehill over a trivial matter.

Tang Shuyi remained silent, just looking at him calmly. Despite her silence, Xiao Yuchen felt an invisible pressure. He pursed his lips and took out a forehead ribbon made by Liu Biqin, handing it to Tang Shuyi and saying, "This was made by Sister Qin for you. She has always remembered your kindness. This is her token of affection for you."

Tang Shuyi took the forehead ribbon, her eyes falling upon the ruby that emitted a faint glow, quite beautiful. But this wasn't something a daughter of a convicted felon should possess, was it?

"This gem is quite beautiful," remarked Tang Shuyi.

Xiao Yuchen thought she liked the forehead ribbon and breathed a sigh of relief. "This was my birthday gift to Sister Qin, which she cherished. This is her token of affection for you."

Tang Shuyi raised an eyebrow, sensing something amiss in his words.

Liu Biqin's living expenses were entirely covered by the Marquis' household. Now, she made a forehead ribbon for the Marchioness, adorned with a gem gifted by her son, claiming it to be her token of affection.

Whom are they trying to deceive?

"Token of affection?" Tang Shuyi was truly angered, "Currently, everything Liu Biqin eats, wears, uses, where does it not come from our Marquis' funds? She uses our money to make an object for me, and what, I should be thankful to her?"

"Mother, how can one compare the sentiments of the heart to money? How can you be so... so..."

He couldn't finish his sentence, but Tang Shuyi did, "So mean, is it?"

Xiao Yuchen remained silent; that was indeed what he meant. Tang Shuyi observed him stubbornly pursing his lips, appearing as if she was being unreasonable, and she scoffed coldly.

"Kneel," commanded Tang Shuyi once more.

Unable to defy a maternal order, Xiao Yuchen reluctantly knelt down. Tang Shuyi stood before him, gazing down at his defiant expression and said, "Xiao Yuchen, you are well-versed in literature, so tell me, what should be the punishment for harboring the daughter of a criminal?"

Caught off guard by Tang Shuyi's question, Xiao Yuchen stammered, "Mother, the Li family's issues have nothing to do with Sister Qin."

"Then tell me, isn't Liu Yushan Qin's father?" Tang Shuyi asked coldly.

"Yes," Xiao Yuchen couldn't deny it.

"So, what should be the punishment for harboring the daughter of a criminal?" Tang Shuyi repeated.

Xiao Yuchen knelt silently, head bowed like a carved statue, yet Tang Shuyi could feel the stubborn defiance emanating from him.

Taking a round-backed chair, she sat before Xiao Yuchen and continued, "Let me tell you the consequences of harboring Liu Biqin."

"Xiao Yuchen, the rightful heir of Marquis Yongning, the eldest son of the Marquis," Tang Shuyi spoke with a stern and chilling tone, her presence as formidable as a queen. Xiao Yuchen's nerves involuntarily tensed.

"Every action you take represents the Marquis Yongning House. The fate of me, your brother, your sister, and everyone in our household is closely tied to you."

Tang Shuyi continued, "Liu Yushan, father of Liu Biqin, was executed for embezzling military provisions. The males of the Liu family were exiled, and the females were sold off. You used our connections to secretly bring Liu Biqin out and hide her in Meihua Alley.

"But secrets don't keep forever; one day this will come to light. Once exposed, you will face punishment, imprisonment at best, or exile at worst. Xiao Yuchen, you've been pampered since birth, can you endure any of these? Oh, and your dear Sister Qin, it won't be as simple as being sold off this time. As a fugitive, she could even face the death penalty."

Xiao Yuchen was so shocked he was speechless. He knew hiding Liu Biqin in Meihua Alley was illegal, but he hadn't realized the gravity of it. Or perhaps, deep down, he believed that if he caused a major problem, his mother and grandfather would solve it.

"Father..." he wanted to say his father would help him, but then realized his father had passed away. He then said, "Grandfather... Grandfather won't abandon me."

Tang Shuyi felt a twinge of disappointment. The child still didn't understand responsibility.

She paused before speaking, "Help you, how? Our household has enemies who will surely exploit your harboring of Liu Biqin, accusing your father of being complicit in Liu Yushan's embezzlement. With your father gone, there are no witnesses to defend him. They can twist truth into falsehood, pinning nonexistent crimes on your father.

"Your father joined the army at fifteen, facing blades and swords on the battlefield, his body laden with countless scars, dying in combat. The entire Daiqian Dynasty honors him, Xiao Huai, as a hero! If because of your actions in hiding Liu Biqin, he is posthumously accused of embezzlement, Xiao Yuchen, what should be your punishment!"

Tang Shuyi's final words struck Xiao Yuchen like thunder, leaving his mind utterly blank. His rigid kneeling posture collapsed slightly.

Then he heard Tang Shuyi continue, "Your father has been deceased for two years. By custom, you should have inherited his title by now, but despite repeated petitions from your grandfather and me, the Emperor has not consented. Do you know why?"

Xiao Yuchen looked up, his face a mask of confusion.

Tang Shuyi rose to her feet and approached him. Crouching down, she fixed her gaze on his eyes and said word by word, "Two reasons. First, the emperor wants to seize military power. Your father is dead, and the military tally has vanished without a trace. The emperor has tested both me and your grandfather multiple times, believing we possess the tally. If we hand it over, the imperial edict for your title inheritance will be issued. But how could I have seen this so-called military tally?"

Having said this, Tang Shuyi suddenly reached out and grasped Xiao Yuxin's collar, her gaze icy and profound. Xiao Yuxin's neck was uncomfortably and awkwardly constricted, making it difficult for him to breathe. He had never seen his mother like this before—dangerous and powerful, to the extent that he didn't even dare meet her eyes.

Then, she added, "The second reason is that you, the heir to the Marquis of Yongning, are simply... useless!"

Xiao Yuxin was shocked, defiant, and aggrieved upon hearing this, his facial expression exceedingly complex. Tang Shuyi couldn't be bothered to guess his thoughts. Releasing his collar, she stood up and looked down at him, saying:

"Do you think the emperor would seize the opportunity to strip the Marquis of Yongning of his title because you're harboring Liu Biqin? Your grandfather followed the previous emperor in battles, enduring life and death to secure the title of Marquis of Yongning. Your father had illustrious military achievements, and even in death, his reputation endures. Are you willing to let the House of Yongning fall into ruin on your watch?"

Xiao Yuxin knelt on the ground, his eyes wide with shock and confusion. He had never imagined the situation to be so grave.

Seeing that her words had struck his soul, Tang Shuyi didn't linger any longer and stepped out of the ancestral hall.

Cuiyun was waiting at the door, and the old woman responsible for guarding the hall stood a few meters away. Tang Shuyi called the old woman over and instructed, "Lock the door. Without my order, do not open it."

The old woman glanced at Xiao Yuxin kneeling inside and asked cautiously, "What about the young master's meals?"

"Let him starve. Without my order, no food is to be sent in."

Hunger can stimulate the brain, a good opportunity for him to exercise his mental faculties and squeeze out some sense.

Such a brat deserves a lesson!

After Tang Shuyi left, the old woman carefully closed the door and locked it.

Chapter 5: Greed for More After Gaining

By the time she left the ancestral hall, night had fallen, and a gust of wind rustled the leaves. It was deep autumn, and the air was chilly. Tang Shuyi shivered, and Cuiyun hurriedly draped a cloak over her shoulders.

"Let's go," she said.

Cuiyun carried a lantern, and the Yongning Marquis's residence was quiet at night. The rustling of their footsteps was clearly audible. However, Tang Shuyi's heart was far from calm. The protagonist, Wu Jingyun, was about to be reborn soon, and shortly after her rebirth in the book, she denounced Xiao Yuxin for harboring the daughter of a criminal.

Liu Biqin must be dealt with swiftly.

However, the love of young people is stubborn—the more their parents oppose, the more resolute they become, and the deeper the entanglement grows. If not handled carefully, Liu Biqin could become the eternal love in Xiao Yuxin's heart, and he might even resent her for a lifetime.

"Madam," Cuiyun said, seeing the worried look on Tang Shuyi's face, "isn't it easy to deal with a lone girl bearing a criminal identity?"

She could be killed, sold, or silenced with a potion—there are myriad ways to make her disappear from the young master's sight.

Tang Shuyi let out a sigh, "Do you know what the most precious thing in this world is?"

Cuíyún shook her head, and Tang Shuyi said solemnly, "That which is unattainable is always the most desirable."

Cuíyún understood, "You're afraid the young master will always pine for her?"

"It's not just pining; he will also resent me," Tang Shuyi sighed again, feeling that this matter was more challenging than negotiating billion-dollar deals in her previous life.

In truth, whether Xiao Yuchen resented her or not was immaterial to Tang Shuyi; he wasn't her biological son after all. However, a harmonious household is the basis for prosperity, and if Xiao Yuchen harbored resentment towards her, it would disrupt her peaceful life as a wealthy, laid-back lady.

As they reached her residence, Shi'an Garden, Tang Shuyi instructed, "Help me change into something more understated."

"Are you going out?" Cuíyún asked softly.

"Better to act sooner rather than later, to avoid unexpected complications," Tang Shuyi said as she entered the inner room, then instructed Cui Zhu, "Go call Steward Zhao and Changming Changfeng, and tell them to follow me to Plum Blossom Alley through the back door."

"Understood." Cui Zhu turned on her heel and hurried off, while Cuíyún fetched a set of dark blue clothes with subtle patterns from the wardrobe, helping Tang Shuyi change while asking, "Are you planning to send her away?"

Tang Shuyi hummed in affirmation, "First, send her to the manor in Xishan."

The immediate crisis must be evaded.

"Why let Changming and Changfeng accompany us?" Cuíyún was perplexed.

Changming and Changfeng had grown up with the young master, and were his confidants. If they knew about the matter, the young master would undoubtedly find out. Wasn't this something that should be kept from the young master?

Although Tang Shuyi had only been acquainted with Cui Zhu and Cuíyún for a short time, she could tell that these maids were loyal and efficient—undoubtedly her future right-hand women. For trusted confidants, some things needed to be shared to ensure their commitment to the cause.

Therefore, she patiently explained to Cuíyún, "I want Yuchen to know that I've sent Liubi Qin away without harming her, so he doesn't suspect that I've been mistreating Liubi Qin behind his back."

"But that's not a long-term solution!" Cuíyún was worried. She had been waiting outside the ancestral hall earlier and heard the entire conversation between mother and son.

Liubi Qin was nothing but trouble.

"We'll take it one step at a time," Tang Shuyi said with a tone of helplessness. Sometimes relationships within a family are difficult to manage; it's a delicate balance, and both extremes can be problematic.

Xiao Yuchen had been sheltered too well and, at just seventeen, hadn't experienced much in life. With little experience, one has limited insight into human nature and the ability to discern right from wrong, especially with cunning characters like green tea manipulators.

Dressed appropriately, Tang Shuyi, accompanied by Cuiyun, stepped out. Cui Zhu, Zhao, the housekeeper, Chang Feng, Chang Ming, and several robust women were waiting in the courtyard. Tang Shuyi glanced at them and strode forward, with everyone following in a flurry, an impressive sight.

The housekeeper, Zhao, had arranged everything perfectly, and they didn't encounter anyone on their way to the back door. Exiting through the back, they boarded the carriage and headed straight for Meihua Alley.

A quarter of an hour later, Tang Shuyi stood at the entrance of Liu Biqin's residence, surveying the surroundings. Meihua Alley was a tranquil spot amidst the bustle, a testament to Xiao Yuchen's good taste.

"Knock on the door," commanded Tang Shuyi.

Chang Feng obeyed and knocked. After a while, the door opened, revealing a young maid. Surprised to see Chang Feng, she asked, "Brother Chang Feng, what brings you here so late? Did the young master send you with something for my mistress?"

Her words caused Chang Ming to break out in a cold sweat, while Tang Shuyi chuckled sardonically, thinking about how frequently her stepson must be sending gifts here.

Chang Feng, ignoring the maid's comments, pushed past her and bowed to Tang Shuyi, "Madam."

Only then did the little maid notice Tang Shuyi and her entourage. Realizing who Chang Feng had addressed, she gasped in shock and turned to run inside.

Cui Zhu snorted, "No manners at all."

Tang Shuyi didn't mind; she stepped through the doorway, followed by her retinue, resembling a group poised to cause trouble. Indeed, her intentions were far from benign today.

Inside, illuminated by moonlight, Tang Shuyi assessed the residence. Though not large, it was exquisitely laid out with rockeries, flower beds, and a pond, all delicately crafted. A swing set beneath an osmanthus tree in the west corner added a playful elegance to the setting.

In Tang Shuyi's experience, anything that caught her eye was invariably valuable, and this courtyard was no exception. Clearly, Xiao Yuchen wasn't short of money.

Meanwhile, the young maid was now frantically knocking on Liu Biqin's bedroom door, "Miss, miss, the... the Marquise, the Marquise is here."

Tang Shuyi was speechless, feeling as if she were being portrayed as a monstrous threat.

Inside the bedroom, Liu Biqin was reading by the bed. Startled by the maid's cries, she quickly tidied herself and opened the door, only to find the Marquise of Yongning, whom she hadn't seen in a long time, standing at the threshold.

They say beauty is best appreciated under lamplight, and the Marquise, bathed in the glow of the lanterns in the corridor, looked even more dignified and elegant.

"Aunt..." Liu Biqin managed a stiff smile.

Tang Shuyi's face, bearing a resemblance to Xiao Yuchen's, was impassive, yet Liu Biqin felt an invisible pressure.

Tang Shuyi maintained an aura of noble detachment, merely glancing indifferently at Liu Biqin before stepping past her into the room, with Cui Zhu and Cuiyun following closely.

Such disregard left Liu Biqin feeling both humiliated and resentful. Clenching her fists, her face betrayed a mix of panic and innocence. Her gaze "frantically" sought Chang Feng, who often accompanied Xiao Yuchen here, and with whom she was relatively familiar.

Dressed appropriately, Tang Shuyi, accompanied by Cuiyun, set out. Cuizhu, Steward Zhao, Changfeng, Changming, and a few stout maids were all waiting in the courtyard. Tang Shuyi glanced at them, strode towards the exit, and the entourage followed with a bustling momentum.

Steward Zhao had arranged everything, and they didn't encounter anyone on the way to the back door. After exiting, they boarded the carriage and headed straight for Plum Blossom Alley.

A little over a quarter of an hour later, Tang Shuyi stood at the entrance of Liu Biqin's residence, surveying the surroundings. Plum Blossom Alley was a quiet haven amidst the hustle and bustle, revealing Xiao Yuxchen's knack for selecting locations.

"Knock on the door," Tang Shuyi instructed.

Changfeng stepped forward to knock. After a short wait, the door opened, revealing the same maid. Seeing Changfeng, she asked in surprise, "Brother Changfeng, what brings you here so late? Is the young master sending something to our miss?"

Changming broke out in a cold sweat upon hearing this, while Tang Shuyi let out a sarcastic chuckle, musing about her eldest son often sending gifts here.

Changfeng, braving through, pushed the maid aside and bowed to Tang Shuyi, addressing her as "Madam."

Only then did the maid notice Tang Shuyi and the others behind her. Recalling Changfeng's address, she let out a gasp and dashed inside.

Cuizhu snorted upon witnessing this, "No manners whatsoever."

Tang Shuyi didn't mind; she stepped inside, followed by a bustling entourage, resembling a scene of troublemakers. But indeed, her visit today bore no good tidings.

Once inside, she observed the residence under the moonlight. It was small, yet exquisitely adorned with rockeries, flower beds, and ponds, all meticulously crafted. Under a sweet osmanthus tree in the west corner, there was even a swing, both lively and elegant.

With Tang Shuyi's discerning eye, anything that caught her attention was undeniably valuable, including the items in this courtyard. It seemed Xiao Yuxchen wasn't short on money.

Meanwhile, the maid was frantically knocking on Liu Biqin's bedroom door, "Miss, Miss, the... the Marchioness, the Marchioness has come."

Tang Shuyi was rendered speechless, as if she were some sort of calamity.

Inside the bedroom, Liu Biqin was leaning against the bed, reading. The maid's shout startled her, and she quickly tidied herself up and opened the door, only to find the Marchioness of Yongning, whom she hadn't seen for a long time, standing at the threshold.

They say beauty is best appreciated under the lamplight, and indeed, the Marchioness, under the candlelight filtering through the lanterns in the corridor, looked even more majestic and graceful.

"Aunt..." Liu Biqin managed a stiff smile.

Tang Shuyi's face, which bore a resemblance to Xiao Yuxchen's, was calm, yet Liu Biqin felt an intangible pressure emanating from her.

Tang Shuyi, embodying the epitome of noble and icy elegance, merely glanced indifferently at Liu Biqin before stepping past her into the room, with Cuizhu and Cuiyun following closely.

Such disregard left Liu Biqin feeling both humiliated and resentful. She clenched her fists, but her expression revealed panic and innocence. Her gaze "frantically" turned to Changfeng, who often visited with Xiao Yuxchen, hoping for a semblance of familiarity.

"You grew up with Yu Chen from a young age, and whenever there was something good, he always thought of you first. When your family met with disaster, he risked punishment to save you from the fire pit. That's no light bond, is it?" Tang Shuyi asked, looking down at Liu Biqin.

"Yes, I know the depth of Chen Gege's feelings for me, and I could spend my whole life without being able to fully repay him," Liu Biqin sobbed, as if she had been wronged.

Tang Shuyi sneered, then asked, "Then why would you repay kindness with ingratitude?"

This question left Liu Biqin dumbfounded. She looked shocked and confused. "I...I haven't. How could I harm Chen Gege? He's the kindest person to me in this whole world."

"You are the daughter of a convicted official; you should have been sold off. You've always been clever; you should know the great risk Yu Chen took in saving you and hiding you here. I advised you to flee far away from the capital to avoid bringing trouble to Yu Chen. But you chose to stay glued by his side, even attempting to enter the Marquis's estate, constantly putting him at risk. Isn't this repaying kindness with ingratitude?"

Tang Shuyi couldn't be bothered to talk to Liu Biqin any longer. She turned to leave, but Liu Biqin clung desperately to her clothes. Cui Zhu and Cui Yun hurriedly came over to pull her away. As Tang Shuyi walked out, she instructed, "They are only allowed to take some clothes and ordinary jewelry. Everything else in this courtyard... catalog it and store it in the treasury."

She was given face but refused to take it; then she shall have nothing at all.

Upon hearing these words, Liu Biqin collapsed to the ground, forgetting even to cry. Bearing the stigma of her father's crimes, she could only rely on Xiao Yu Chen. Now, the Marquis's wife was driving her away, even taking all her possessions. How was she supposed to live after this?

The Marquis's wife was pushing her towards death!

She ran to the doorway, looking at Tang Shuyi standing in the courtyard, pleading, "I want to see Chen Gege, I want to see Chen Gege."

Only Xiao Yu Chen could save her now. She believed that as long as she could see Xiao Yu Chen, she could stay. The Marquis's wife couldn't oppose Xiao Yu Chen.

Tang Shuyi knew what she was thinking, but she wasn't Xiao Yu Chen's birth mother, and wouldn't go easy on him. With a cold snort, she replied, "You will have your meeting."

Then she instructed the steward Zhao, "Take her to the Xishan Villa. She's to be treated like any ordinary household there. As for the items in this mansion, they must be cleared out by tonight, leaving not a trace of her presence."

Hearing this, Liu Biqin's face turned deathly pale, her body leaning against the door frame, ready to collapse. What kind of life was it for an ordinary household on the estate? Eating coarse food and doing all the chores by oneself.

She was a young lady from a distinguished family; how could she live like that?

Tang Shuyi didn't care about such matters. To provide shelter and food to a girl bearing her father's crimes was already an act of supreme benevolence. What more did she want? Some people are never satisfied with what they have.

After a long day of turmoil, Tang Shuyi was exhausted. She returned to the Marquis's estate with Cui Zhu and Cui Yun, with Chang Ming quickly following behind.

Seeing Tang Shuyi leave, Liu Biqin staggered out, grabbing onto Chang Feng's arm and crying out, "Chang Feng, please let me see Chen Gege."

Chang Feng was startled by her gesture, quickly pushing her away and stepping back. The favored person of the young master, he dared not even touch her robe, "Miss Liu, I'm just a servant; I can't help you."

"You can. Chen Gege trusts you the most; you can definitely let me see him."

Chang Feng: "...You're giving me too much credit."

"Miss Liu," Steward Zhao spoke up, "no one can defy the lady's orders, and besides, she hasn't wronged you. Without the young master, without the Marquis's mansion, who knows where you would have been sold off by now. Don't overreach yourself. Go and pack your things."

These words stripped Liu Biqin of her last shred of dignity. She was angry and humiliated, but utterly powerless. Was it really all over? She couldn't accept this.

At that moment, she noticed several maids packing her belongings into boxes, and she hurried over—those were valuable items!

…

Tang Shuyi sat in the carriage, eyes closed in meditation, but her brain cells were still working furiously. Moving Liu Biqin wasn't enough. When Xiao Yuchen had rescued her, he must have left traces. Those traces had to be dealt with thoroughly, or else they'd become a latent threat...

"Madam, we've arrived."

Hearing Cuiyun's voice, Tang Shuyi opened her eyes and got out of the carriage with Cuizhu's assistance. "To the ancestral hall," she said.

She walked towards the ancestral hall, followed closely by Cuizhu, Cuiyun, and Changming. When the maids at the hall heard the commotion, they got up, greeted her respectfully, and opened the door.

Tang Shuyi instructed Cuizhu and Cuiyun to guard the outside while she and Changming entered the hall. Under the dim light, Xiao Yuchen was still kneeling in front of the spirit tablets, his eyes vacant. Seeing her, he had no particular reaction, as if he were in a daze.

"I've just returned from Plum Blossom Lane," Tang Shuyi announced, standing before Xiao Yuchen.

Chapter 6: Tying up Loose Ends

Tang Shuyi approached Xiao Yuchen, who was kneeling rigidly like a wooden figure, and sighed inwardly. If she were the original mother, she would undoubtedly be heartbroken to see her son like this, but unfortunately, she wasn't.

Even jade must be carved to take shape, let alone a love-stricken man.

"I've just come back from Plum Blossom Lane," Tang Shuyi got straight to the point.

Xiao Yuchen, who had been kneeling rigidly like a piece of wood, lifted his head at her words. His dull eyes filled with anger and pleading, "Mother, she's just a weak woman. Why must you make things difficult for her?"

Tang Shuyi suddenly felt speechless. She had already analyzed with Xiao Yuchen the consequences of continuing to harbor Liu Biqin. It seemed like he understood, but he still wasn't willing to give up on her.

Was this what love was? Tang Shuyi had always been a calm person. She hadn't experienced those so-called profound loves in her previous life, so she couldn't understand Xiao Yuchen's feelings.

"I'm not making things difficult for her," Tang Shuyi said calmly, "I told her I'd send her to Tangjia Anmu, ensuring her future with food and clothing, but she refused. So, I sent her to the Western Hill Manor. Plum Blossom Lane is no place for her to stay."

"She doesn't want to go to Anmu because she doesn't want to be separated from me." Xiao Yuchen lowered his head, his throat felt as if it were blocked by a hard stone, the pain was unbearable. How had things come to this?

Tang Shuyi's lips curled into a sarcastic arc, "Time reveals a person's heart. I didn't come here to discuss this."

Sitting down by the chair, Tang Shuyi continued, "The West Mountain Manor is secluded, staffed entirely by people from the Marquis's residence. Even if the matter is exposed, it won't be traced back there immediately. What's crucial now is the clean-up."

Xiao Yuchen lifted his head again, his eyes clouded with confusion, "Clean-up? Clean up what?"

No longer disappointed by his naivety, Tang Shuyi explained, "Do you think sending away Liu Biqin is the end of it? If the matter is exposed and Liu Biqin can't be found, they will investigate how you rescued her in the first place. If any link in that chain is broken, you'll be held accountable."

Xiao Yuchen was so shocked that his mouth opened and closed several times without uttering a word. Tang Shuyi asked him, "How did you rescue her?"

Xiao Yuchen straightened up, his hands clenched into fists. He indeed felt powerless, having oversimplified the situation.

"After Liu Yushan was executed, the women of the Liu family were to be sold off," Xiao Yuchen said with difficulty, his throat moving stiffly. "I used money to visit Sister Qin in prison and coincidentally met my uncle's third room's Xue Ji, who is the chief official of the Ministry of Justice's Redemption Office."

In fact, he had never known of Xue Ji before. It was only after Xue Ji initiated the greeting that he realized their familial connection.

Tang Shuyi's brow furrowed slightly, unclear about who this uncle was.

Standing aside, Changming, who had been observing the expressions of his two masters, quickly explained upon seeing Tang Shuyi's frown, "Xue Ji is the second son of the fourth lord from the third room of the Marquis of Wuyang's residence, born of a concubine."

Tang Shuyi felt her head spin with this convoluted relationship. She lowered her gaze, sorting through the familial web of the Marquis's residence in her mind. After a while, she realized that the Marquis of Wuyang was the natal family of her mother-in-law, the Old Marchioness, and the current Marquis was the Old Marchioness's own brother, making him indeed Xiao Yuchen's uncle.

As for the second son of the fourth lord from the third room, that would be a collateral branch of the Marquis of Wuyang's residence. Although a distant relation, they were still kin.

Having sorted out the relationships, Tang Shuyi looked at Xiao Yuchen and said, "Continue."

"Xue Ji, as the chief official in charge of the Ministry of Justice's Redemption Office, was responsible for the disposal of the Liu family's women," Xiao Yuchen said. "I couldn't bear to see Sister Qin being sold off, so I asked Xue Ji if there was any way to help. He suggested faking Sister Qin's death, and he orchestrated the rest."

After listening to his account, Tang Shuyi pondered, now focusing on Xue Ji. If Xue Ji were of ordinary origin, she could think of a way to have him leave the capital. However, even as a collateral born of a concubine, he was related to the Marquis of Wuyang, and couldn't be dismissed lightly.

Then she heard Xiao Yuchen continue, "Even though both my grandmother and father have passed away, Uncle and the others are still as close to us as before. Xue Ji won't betray me. Moreover, if the matter is exposed, he would be implicated too."

After all, Xue Ji was an accomplice.

Tang Shuyi gave him a glance, relieved that he had some sense.

"Even so, we must be cautious. Furthermore, if there were others aware of his actions at that time, we must ensure their silence," Tang Shuyi instructed. "Invite Xue Ji to our residence tomorrow. Clarify the situation with him and ensure that he ties up any loose ends thoroughly."

"Alright," Xiao Yuchen exhaled deeply, realizing he had never thought things through this thoroughly before.

"Think again if there's anything overlooked," Tang Shuyi said as she stood up to leave. She was genuinely exhausted and now just wanted to collapse into bed and rest. As for Xiao Yuchen, he could continue kneeling in the ancestral hall.

Changming, who was observant, hurried to the door to open it when he saw her leaving. Tang Shuyi exited the ancestral hall, and Cui Zhu and Cui Yun quickly approached, one holding a lantern and the other assisting her, as they headed towards Shian Garden.

The old woman guarding the ancestral hall saw the three leaving and said to Xiao Yuchen, who was still kneeling, "Young Master, I... I will lock the door now."

Xiao Yuchen remained kneeling without a word. Changming took the initiative to close the door, saying, "Lock it, just lock it."

The old woman locked the door of the ancestral hall, and Changming knelt beside Xiao Yuchen. "Young Master, you've been kneeling for hours, why not take a break? Let me kneel in your stead."

Xiao Yuchen remained still, turning his head to ask Changming, "Were you also following when mother went to Plum Alley?"

"Yes..." Knowing Xiao Yuchen wanted to learn about Liu Biqin's situation, Changming hurriedly recounted Tang Shuyi's visit to Plum Alley, and cautiously added:

"I think, for Miss Liu, it would be best to follow the madam's advice and go to Anmu. The madam also said she would arrange a residence and shop for her there. With the Tang family's strong foundation in Anmu, Miss Liu would be well taken care of for the rest of her life under the Tang family's protection."

After hearing his words, Xiao Yuchen fell silent for a while before murmuring softly, "She doesn't want to part with me."

Thinking about the distance that would separate him from Liu Biqin, Xiao Yuchen's heart ached unbearably, and he knew she felt the same. He only lamented the unfairness of fate; had the Liu family not met with disaster, they would have naturally married and had children. But now...

At this moment, Xiao Yuchen's mind was a mess, torn between the difficulty of maintaining his relationship with Liu Biqin, the responsibilities he shouldered as the heir of the Yongning Marquisate, and the details of rescuing Liu Biqin, wondering if there were any oversights...

Never in his life had he felt life to be so challenging.

Kneeling by his side, Changming stole glances at him and mustered the courage several times before saying, "Young Master, if I may be so bold to speak..."

Xiao Yuchen glanced at him, "Speak your mind."

"Young Master, your love for Miss Liu is deep, but I don't think it's necessarily mutual," Changming began, feeling the sharp gaze of Xiao Yuchen piercing him, but he continued:

"You think of her in every way, risking punishment to rescue her, and you've placed her in Plum Alley, providing for her better than before. But has she ever considered you? If she cared for you, she would heed the madam's words, fly far away from Shangjing. But instead, she insists on staying close to you and even entering the marquisate. She..."

"Enough," Xiao Yuchen interrupted with a stern voice and furrowed brows.

But Changming didn't stop, continuing, "She just can't let go of the glory and wealth of the marquisate..."

"Silence!" Xiao Yuchen reprimanded sharply, "What do you know? I've grown up with her since we were children; how could I not know what kind of person she is?"

"But people change, and the Liu family..."

"Silence! I told you to be quiet!" Xiao Yuchen's forehead throbbed with angry veins. He couldn't stand anyone speaking ill of Liu Biqin.

Changming had no choice but to remain silent, but his resentment toward Liu Biqin deepened. She was nothing but trouble!

The hall was quiet until, after a while, Xiao Yuchen said, "Get up. I didn't ask you to kneel as punishment."

He knew Changming spoke out of concern for him, but Changming didn't understand his sister Biqin.

"I'll stay with you," Changming muttered softly, "The lady isn't here, you don't need to keep kneeling."

Xiao Yuchen shifted his numb knees, "Mother's punishment is just. I deserve to kneel."

As the legitimate eldest son and heir of the Marquis of Yongning, his conduct was indeed not up to the mark.

Changming couldn't understand the family's eldest son; if he felt he deserved to kneel, why couldn't he stop thinking about Liu Biqin?

Chapter 7: Rebirth

Returning to Shi'an Yuan, Tang Shuyi collapsed on the brocade couch, exhausted, her day akin to fighting a battle. It's tough being a lady of a noble house!

Seeing her state, Cui Zhu and Cui Yun hurried to massage her shoulders and back. Tang Shuyi waved them off, "Send a younger maid in, you two take a break as well."

They had also been busy all day.

Cui Zhu stopped, giggling, "Thank you for your kindness, my lady."

Tang Shuyi waved her hand like a lord, "Work well, and I will take good care of you."

With that, the mistress and maids all burst into laughter.

Still smiling, Cui Zhu called over two younger maids to massage Tang Shuyi while Cui Yun instructed someone to prepare the bath. Tang Shuyi closed her eyes, pondering the day's events. Soon, Cui Yun whispered, "My lady, the bath is ready."

Tang Shuyi lazily got up and walked to the bath, shedding her clothes before stepping into the bathtub scattered with flower petals. The warm water enveloped her skin, and she couldn't help but let out a long, comfortable sigh.

After soaking for a while with her eyes closed, she said softly, "Find out what's going on with Xue Ji."

As Cui Zhu scrubbed her arm, she replied, "The dowry of the old Marquis's wife in our house still has plenty. We could start by asking them."

Tang Shuyi hummed in acknowledgment, sifting through the information about the old Marquis's wife and the Marquis of Wuyang's household in her mind. There was too much information to sort through instantly; she needed to familiarize herself with it.

Emerging from the bath, she chatted idly with Cui Zhu and Cui Yun while waiting for her hair to dry, missing the convenience of a hairdryer. Nevertheless, the conversation deepened her understanding of the household affairs. Once her hair dried, Tang Shuyi climbed into bed, yet sleep eluded her. Her mind was still preoccupied with Xiao Yuchen, Liu Biqin, and the heroine Wu Jingyun.

Sometimes, these unrequited love matters were the hardest to resolve. In her past life, Wu Jingyun loved Xiao Yuchen, but he did not reciprocate her feelings. Wu Jingyun believed that marrying Xiao Yuchen would gradually cultivate their affection, but his heart had room for none other than Liu Biqin.

Moreover, in his view, it was normal for a man to have multiple wives and concubines. The chief wife should manage the inner household, uphold her social duties, and maintain marital harmony. Constant jealousy over concubines was deemed unvirtuous. Naturally, this was a common mindset among men of ancient times.

However, Wu Jingyun's desires extended beyond the status of the principal wife; she wanted Xiao Yuchen's heart. This gave rise to conflicts. Add Liu Biqin, a schemer, to the mix, and it spelled nothing but chaos and strife.

Sighing deeply, Tang Shuyi closed her eyes. Women, especially those in ancient times, should tread lightly on matters of the heart to avoid hurting themselves. Even in modern times, where monogamy was the norm, didn't wealthy and successful men have affairs?

Her mind cluttered with a myriad of thoughts, Tang Shuyi slowly drifted to sleep.

Cui Yun and Cui Zhu, hearing her steady breathing, tiptoed to lower the bed curtains and extinguish the bedside candle, leaving only a distant light on, providing a gentle glow without disrupting sleep.

Once everything was in order, they quietly stepped out, huddling together to whisper. Cui Zhu asked, "Did you notice that our mistress was quite different today?"

Nodding, Cui Yun replied, "She must have been greatly upset by the young master. Not just her, even I get angry thinking about that Liu woman. I say, it's high time our mistress acted this way. She's been too soft-hearted, which emboldened her."

Cui Yun sighed softly, "I truly pity our mistress. She has to shoulder all matters, big and small, in the household. It wasn't like this when the marquis was still around."

Cui Zhu sighed in agreement, then added, "But today, our mistress was decisively efficient in handling matters, which felt rather satisfying."

They both grinned, reminiscing about how they dealt with Liu Biqin, and then Cui Yun said, "If our mistress continues to be like she was today, our marquis's household will surely thrive."

Cui Zhu nodded in agreement, both of them feeling a newfound vigor.

After a bit more conversation, Cui Yun retired to her room for rest, and Cui Zhu stepped into the gauze cabinet to be available for any night-time assistance.

…

The Marquis of Yongning's household fell into silence. In Plum Blossom Alley, Steward Zhao was efficiently handling the affairs. Liu Biqin was unwilling to be sent to the Western Mountain Villa. Amidst the commotion, Zhao decisively gagged her and her maid, bundled them into a carriage, and quietly left the city for the Western Mountain, taking advantage of the absence of a curfew.

A few streets away from the Marquis of Yongning's residence, the Wu family's backyard was abuzz with activity as Miss Wu Jingyun, who had been unconscious for two days, regained consciousness. The maids and servants in her courtyard were in a flurry.

In the main courtyard, the current mistress of the Wu family, Madam Feng, had just fallen asleep when she was softly informed by a maid outside her bed curtains, "Madam, people from the second young miss's courtyard have come to report that she has awakened."

Madam Wu sat up irritably, "Wasn't she always unconscious? How did she wake up?" This was bad luck!

The maid outside, sensing the anger in her voice, cautiously replied, "This servant doesn't know the specifics."

Lady Wu unhappily yanked open the curtains. "Change my clothes."

Her maidservant quickly helped her dress, and then Lady Wu, with a stern face, led her servants to Wu Jingyun's courtyard. As she stepped in, her brows and eyes brimmed with joy, her whole demeanor transforming into one of affection.

The maidservants and old women by her side showed no surprise at this sudden change; they were well accustomed to it.

Entering Wu Jingyun's bedroom, Lady Wu embraced her, tears streaming down her face, "My child, you've nearly scared me to death. I haven't been able to eat or sleep these past few days..."

Lady Wu wept bitterly, while Wu Jingyun's mind was in complete disarray, unsure of her current circumstances.

She vividly remembered being gravely ill, with no medicine effective, and at her last moments, she had grasped Xiao Yuchen's hand, asking if he had ever loved her even for a moment. But Xiao Yuchen didn't reply, merely telling her not to overthink, that she would always be the Lady of Yongning Marquis.

But she wanted more than just the title of Lady of Yongning Marquis; she yearned for a piece of Xiao Yuchen's heart. However, in his heart, there was only the despicable Liu Biqin. Recalling the past, she was overwhelmed with sorrow, a lump of anguish in her chest that she couldn't swallow, and then she knew nothing more.

But what was the situation now? Why was she in her bedroom from before her marriage? And she had long fallen out with Lady Feng; why was Lady Feng still pretending to be a loving mother in front of her? Was she dreaming?

Wu Jingyun was momentarily panicked and confused, then decided to quietly observe and see how things would unfold.

After crying for a while, Lady Wu instructed the maidservants and old women to take good care of her, then wiped her tears with a handkerchief, holding Wu Jingyun's hand tenderly as she spoke:

"Your father has been very busy with official duties these past few days, and he's been worried sick about you, hardly sleeping a wink. He just took some sedatives and has gone to sleep. He has to attend court tomorrow, so I haven't told him you've awakened. We'll tell him tomorrow. Rest well, and if you need anything, send someone to inform me."

Having said this, her tears began to flow once again. "My child, you've really suffered this time."

Wu Jingyun lowered her gaze, hiding the cold sneer in her eyes. It all came down to the fact that Lady Wu simply didn't want her to have too much contact with her father. This was a trick she had always played.

It had been a long time since she'd seen Lady Wu act, and now, observing her perform all the dramatic arts, Wu Jingyun found it amusing and leaned against the bedhead, watching her with interest. Seeing her concern unreciprocated, Lady Wu frowned, assuming Wu Jingyun's brain was sluggish from just waking up, and after giving a few more instructions, she left with a worried expression.

She herself had no patience to stay there; acting was exhausting.

After Lady Wu left, Wu Jingyun dismissed the maidservants and old women, lying on the bed and staring at the lifelike lotus flowers painted on the canopy above, tears streaming down her face, yet her mouth curved into a broad smile. She had actually been reborn.

She wept for the love she couldn't attain in her previous life, and also for the joy that the heavens had given her a second chance. In this life, she would no longer be as aggrieved as she had been. But the thought of Xiao Yuchen still caused her heart to ache intensely.

How could it not hurt? After all, she had loved him for so many years. But she also hated!

Ever since she understood the meaning of love, she had been fond of Xiao Yuchen. But at that time, Xiao Yuchen and Liu Biqin were childhood sweethearts, and many people said they would marry once they came of age. Back then, she could only hide her feelings, nursing her secret sorrow.

Later, when Liu Yushan was accused of embezzlement, the Liu family was raided, and Liu Biqin was sold off, she saw a glimmer of hope again. However, once they reached the capital, there were too many young ladies who fancied Xiao Yuchen, including her own sister, who was smitten with him.

Fortunately, my grandmother and the old Lady Yongning Marquis had a close relationship like that of sisters, which allowed me to be betrothed and married to Xiao Yuchen. I knew he harbored affections for Liu Biqin, but I thought she had been sold away. After our marriage, I spent my days and nights with Xiao Yuchen, confident that I would eventually win his favor.

Yet, to my utter disbelief, Liu Biqin had not been sold at all; instead, Xiao Yuchen had hidden her away in Plum Blossom Alley. This truth came to light only after we were wed.

Naturally, I made a scene upon discovering the truth, but Xiao Yuchen assured me that Liu Biqin was merely a concubine and could never threaten my position as his wife. My mother-in-law suggested that, now that I knew, it would be wiser to bring Liu Biqin into our residence, where she could be more easily controlled.

It made sense, so I agreed to bring Liu Biqin into our household, but my life became even more difficult thereafter.

Control Liu Biqin? She was Xiao Yuchen's beloved. How could I possibly control her? Every harsh word I directed at her was reported back to Xiao Yuchen by that vile woman. Although Xiao Yuchen wouldn't scold me for small matters, he grew colder towards me.

Liu Biqin and I engaged in a constant battle of wits within the Marquis' rear courtyard. Outwardly, Xiao Yuchen gave me the respect due to a wife: he allowed me to manage the household, spent equal time in my chambers as he did in Liu Biqin's, and whatever he bought for her, he bought for me as well.

But what concubine is treated the same as a wife?

Moreover, Xiao Yuchen's demeanor was always lukewarm with me, yet with Liu Biqin, he was deeply affectionate. And that despicable Liu Biqin, always playing coy and clever in front of Xiao Yuchen, would turn around and mock me with sarcasm, saying that it mattered little if I was his wife when I could never possess his heart.

Being deprived of Xiao Yuchen's love was an eternal torment for me.

What was even more hateful was that Liu Biqin caused my miscarriage, yet Xiao Yuchen protected her, claiming there was no evidence and that it was all my speculation. That vile woman was too cunning to leave any traces behind.

Later, when Liu Biqin became pregnant, customary rules stated that a concubine's child should not precede the legitimate heir. However, with her tears and tantrums, Xiao Yuchen allowed her to give birth to his eldest illegitimate son, making my own son three years his junior.

During my subsequent pregnancy, Liu Biqin would constantly provoke me, leading to emotional distress that compromised my health. The birth was difficult, and my son was born frail. Meanwhile, the illegitimate son was healthy and raised closely by Xiao Yuchen, always overshadowing my own child.

When I died, my son was only ten years old. Although Xiao Yuchen had named him the heir, how could a motherless and weak child ever compete against Liu Biqin and her son? The thought alone caused me immense heartache.

Such injustice!

From the day I married Xiao Yuchen, not a single day passed joyfully.

Oh, how I hated!

I hated Liu Biqin for occupying Xiao Yuchen's heart, for causing my miscarriage, for weakening my son. And I hated Xiao Yuchen even more for his indifference and incompetence.

It was those two who led me to my death. In this life, I will make sure they suffer.

Wiping away tears, Wu Jingyun sneered. Right now, that vile Liu Biqin must still be residing in Plum Blossom Alley. Once the scandal of harboring the traitor's daughter breaks out, even with the protection of the Marquis' and the Duke's residences, Xiao Yuchen will be significantly impacted, perhaps even losing his heir's title.

And as for that vile Liu Biqin, it goes without saying. But I won't let her die; I will make her live a life worse than death.

Wu Jingyun let out a long sigh, feeling a surge of relief at the thought of those two having a rough time ahead. She decided to act sooner rather than later, starting tomorrow.

However, she needed to think carefully: to whom should she reveal the news of Xiao Yuchen harboring the daughter of a convicted traitor? The family of Consort Liang had always been at odds with the Marquis of Yongning's residence, and Qi Liangsheng, the Minister of Revenue, had a grudge against the late Marquis...

And then there were her hypocritical stepmother and two pretentious sisters; she would make sure none of them would have a good life!

Chapter 8: Instruction

The early morning of late autumn brought a chill, but the warmth inside the quilt was comforting. Tang Shuyi was sleeping soundly, wrapped in her bedding, when Cuicui's gentle call came, "Madam, it's time to get up. The two concubines have come to pay their respects."

Tang Shuyi, still groggy from sleep, was confused: Concubines? What concubines?

Scratching her head, she sifted through the information in her mind and then recalled that the late Marquis Xiao Huai had taken two concubines from the borderlands. However, neither had borne children, and after Xiao Huai died in battle, they were sent back.

"What time is it?" Tang Shuyi asked.

Cuicui answered softly from outside, "It's the hour of Mao."

Tang Shuyi calculated the time and knew it was just past six o'clock. She got out of bed, and several young maids rushed in, all there to assist her in starting the day. Tang Shuyi paused for a moment, once again profoundly aware that she was now a lady of high society.

In the washroom, a maid handed her a toothbrush dipped in tooth powder. She had always thought that people in ancient times did not brush their teeth but only rinsed with salt water, and now she realized how narrow her previous knowledge had been.

Even in ancient times, there were toothbrushes, like the one she was holding, made with fine sandalwood for the handle, drilled with holes and tied with animal hair. The tooth powder was also made from precious medicinal herbs.

Hmm, not a bad taste.

After washing up and returning to the bedroom, two elegant beauties kneeled and greeted her—these were the two concubines.

"Rise," said Tang Shuyi, sitting down at the vanity. The two concubines immediately moved to her side, ready to help her with her hair and makeup. She quickly gestured for them to stop, "Let the maids do it."

The two concubines stood obediently to the side, and Tang Shuyi smiled, making small talk with them about daily routines, before saying, "I have nothing else for you here; you may go back. There's no need to come and pay respects every day."

Hearing this, both concubines became apprehensive, one saying it was their duty to pay respects, and the other saying that rules must not be forsaken. Listening to them, Tang Shuyi turned to look at them seriously and said, "I truly do not need you to pay respects; I'm not being polite."

Her words left them both at a loss. Tang Shuyi continued, her tone gentle, "Don't overthink it, I just don't want to be troubled."

Seeing that she was sincere, the two concubines bowed and turned to leave. Tang Shuyi continued to let the maids do her hair and makeup. It wasn't that she had an aversion to the concubines; after all, she had never even met her late husband, so naturally, she felt no affection for him, and even less so for his mistresses.

It was just that the matter of Xiao Yuchen weighed on her mind, and she had no time to deal with others.

Fully made up and her hair neatly arranged, Cuizhu inquired about which dress to wear for the day. Tang Shuyi glanced at the wardrobe filled with overly opulent but somewhat lacking in taste garments. She casually selected a bamboo-green dress with embroidered gold thread and said, "Let's go with this one. Have the tailor come by later to make a few more sets."

As Cuizhu agreed and assisted her with dressing, Tang Shuyi asked, "Have you gathered information about Xue Ji's situation?"

Tying the waistband for her, Cuizhu explained, "The old master of the third branch of the Wuyang Marquis's family was born of a concubine and was cast aside during the family division. This third branch's old master had four sons, two legitimate and two illegitimate; Xue Ji is the son of the fourth son born from a concubine, also illegitimate."

Tang Shuyi: "…"

Well, he's thrice removed from legitimacy.

"However, if you calculate it, Xue Ji is still within five degrees of kinship to the Wuyang Marquis family, so he's considered part of the household," Cuizhu continued. "It's said that Xue Ji's aunt is quite favored, and he himself is savvy in currying favor. Despite being neither scholarly nor martially adept, he's managed to become the head of the Penal Department's Redemption Office through connections, a seventh-rank official."

"His wife comes from the household of the Deputy Minister of Justice, Zhang, as a daughter of the concubine. He has one son and one daughter, both born of his principal wife. The son is ten, the daughter eight, both studying at the clan school of the Wuyang Marquis's family."

"Does this Xue Ji have any vices?" Tang Shuyi inquired.

Cuizhu pondered for a moment and replied, "Aside from his fondness for social climbing, nothing else has been heard."

Tang Shuyi hummed in acknowledgment, "Did we send for him?"

"Changming went first thing in the morning," Cuizhu answered.

"Have someone call the eldest son out of the ancestral hall. It's improper for him to still be kneeling when the guest arrives," Tang Shuyi remarked, though she felt that making Xiao Yuchen kneel for such a short time was insufficient. Perhaps after Xue Ji leaves, she should have him continue?

Cuizhu acknowledged and went to send a young maid to deliver the message to the ancestral hall. Once everything was prepared and breakfast was served, the three rowdy children came in. Xiao Yuming and Xiao Yuzhu were bickering, while Xiao Yuchen limped in, looking dejected.

Upon seeing her, the three greeted:

Xiao Yuzhu: "Mother~"

Xiao Yuming: "Mother."

Xiao Yuchen: "Mother."

Tang Shuyi raised an eyebrow; the children's respective natures were evident just from their greetings.

"Sit down and let's eat," Tang Shuyi invited, taking her seat first, with the three children following suit at the dining table. She wasn't keen on adhering to the rule of silence during meals, opting instead to casually chat with the three rambunctious kids.

Although each of the three had their own issues, Tang Shuyi refrained from scolding or lecturing them, choosing instead to converse about everyday matters to foster closeness. The pressing matter at hand was Xiao Yuchen's situation; she could address the younger ones' problems once the current issue was resolved.

After breakfast, Xiaoyu Zhu and Xiaoyu Ming headed to their school, while Tang Shuyi and Xiaoyu Chen made their way to the front courtyard to meet with Xue Ji. Along the way, Tang Shuyi briefed Xiaoyu Chen about Xue Ji's background.

Xiaoyu Chen wore a puzzled look after listening; he didn't understand why Tang Shuyi had taken such pains to investigate Xue Ji. Weren't they relatives after all?

Noticing the expression on his face, Tang Shuyi asked, "Did you know who Xue Ji was before you saved Liu Biqin?"

Xiaoyu Chen shook his head. "There are so many distant relatives in my uncle's family; it's impossible to know them all."

"Why would a relative you don't recognize approach you and even help you?" Tang Shuyi probed.

After some thought, Xiaoyu Chen replied, "Because of my status. Building a relationship with me benefits him."

Tang Shuyi gave him an approving look. "You are the heir of Marquis Yongning, the grandson of the Duke of Tang. Even if you don't do him any favors, just being close to you raises his stature in the eyes of others, making his endeavors more convenient."

Seeing Xiaoyu Chen nod in understanding, Tang Shuyi continued, "You used him to save Liu Biqin, and he used you to elevate his status. Your relationship is purely transactional; don't delude yourself with notions of kinship."

This left Xiaoyu Chen somewhat perplexed. Tang Shuyi elaborated, "Human relations are founded either on emotion or on benefit. With those driven by emotion, it's best not to involve too much benefit.

Like between us, between you and your younger siblings, and between us and your maternal grandfather's family, what we share is emotion, the bond of close kinship. With Xue Ji, it's a relationship based on benefit. If he saw no advantage in helping you, would he do so?"

Xiaoyu Chen understood now. "Did you investigate Xue Ji so thoroughly to know your enemy?"

Tang Shuyi nodded. "We need to know if he has any fatal weaknesses, like gambling, licentiousness, or greed. Such vices can easily be exploited as leverage against him. Fortunately, aside from his penchant for scheming, Xue Ji doesn't seem to have any particularly fatal flaws."

Hearing all this, Xiaoyu Chen paused and regarded Tang Shuyi with a mix of confusion and admiration. She stopped as well, asking, "Why are you looking at me like that?"

Xiaoyu Chen bit his lip, "You never talked about these things with me before..." I didn't know you understood so much.

Tang Shuyi glanced at him disdainfully, "I didn't realize before just how... naive you were."

Tang Shuyi wanted to say how foolish he was, but decided it was best not to be too harsh on the child.

Xiaoyu Chen was rendered speechless. He now had one more teacher and one less doting mother.

As mother and son talked, they reached the front courtyard. Tang Shuyi suggested heading to the study first and waiting for Xue Ji in the small hall upon his arrival. Xiaoyu Chen responded, "Why not wait directly in the small hall?"

Tang Shuyi: "..." Did no one ever teach this heir before?

Suppressing the urge to roll her eyes, Tang Shuyi accepted her new role as Lady Marquis Yongning. She resolved to guide her three children well; it was her responsibility, and their well-being was tied to her own. As long as they weren't utterly wicked, she would see to their proper upbringing.

She said, "We need to let him know that the initiative lies in our hands."

Xiao Yuchen did not understand, and Tang Shuyi did not explain further. Such things become clear with experience.

After a short while, Changming reported that Xue Ji had arrived. Tang Shuyi, without making him wait, proceeded to the reception hall with Xiao Yuchen.

PS: The troubles of the Marquis' three children have their reasons. The Marquis is often on the frontier, and the previous Marchioness doted on the children without much discipline. She herself was raised indulgently and was not very scheming. As for their maternal grandfather, he is after all a grandfather, not able to be with them every day. Moreover, with the affection of a grandparent, it's even easier to spoil the children.

In the world of ancient men, the Marquis is considered decent; at least the Marquisate in the capital does not have concubines.

The siblings grew up in an environment without the strife of a complicated household.

Chapter 9: This is Reality

Xue Ji was in his twenties, of medium build, with a square face and darker complexion, exuding an aura of honesty and reliability at first glance. But Tang Shuyi wouldn't be fooled; she had encountered many such individuals, wrapped in the guise of sincerity but slippery as eels inside.

"Madam Marquise," Xue Ji greeted Tang Shuyi with all due respect.

Tang Shuyi, smiling, gestured magnanimously from afar, "We are relatives, there's no need for formalities."

Standing by the side, Xiao Yuchen thought, "..." Weren't they supposed to be dealing with Xue Ji solely on terms of interest, not kinship?

"Yes, Aunt," Xue Ji smoothly claimed the familial tie, then gesturing towards the flowers placed on the table, he said, "My wife enjoys gardening, and hearing that Aunt is fond of flowers too, I've brought some for you."

Tang Shuyi walked over, fiddled with the brilliantly blooming flowers, and smiled brightly, "They are indeed pleasing to the eye."

Xue Ji also smiled, "I'm glad you like them."

As they conversed, the two seemed to warm up to each other. After sitting down, they even discussed everyday family matters, eventually touching upon the topic of children's education. Xiao Yuchen was astounded; how could two people meeting for the first time get along so warmly?

After a while, Tang Shuyi steered the conversation to the main topic, "Although no one knows about that matter, it's always better to be more secure, to avoid any potential entanglement for you and Yuchen."

Xue Ji truly admired the Madam Marquise; her courtesy was impeccable, yet when discussing serious matters, she skillfully allied him and Xiao Yuchen, leaving no room for personal sentiments.

"But has there been a slip at Miss Liu's end?" asked Xue Ji.

"No," Tang Shuyi assured firmly, almost as if making a promise, "I've sent her far away. She will never pose a problem."

Upon hearing her words, Xue Ji's grip on his teacup tightened. What did she mean by 'never pose a problem'? Was it what he thought it was? There were many ways for a woman to silently disappear within the inner quarters.

At that moment, she heard the calm voice of Lady Hou saying, "I just wonder if you need to take any measures on your end to ensure that everything goes smoothly without fail."

Xue Ji pondered for a moment, "When Miss Liu feigned her death, it was Pan Shan and I who escorted her out. To ensure that everything is foolproof, I... can make him disappear."

Tang Shuyi's heart skipped a beat. How could people from ancient times speak of murder so casually and simply? As a well-educated, model citizen, she couldn't possibly partake in murder and suggested, "Just make him disappear from the capital, ensuring he can't be found."

Xue Ji's gaze faltered, realizing he had misunderstood. Clearing his throat, he said, "You are right."

"Will that be difficult?" Tang Shuyi inquired.

Xue Ji shook his head, "No. The man became addicted to gambling last year, his behavior leading to his mother's death. His wife took the children and ran away with another man. He's deep in debt, and the creditors are after him. He'll flee at the slightest hint of trouble."

"Then let him flee further," Tang Shuyi said, "Send him to Anmu. My Tang family's ancestral home is in Anmu. He will be watched over there."

After laying out her plan, Tang Shuyi turned to Xiao Yuxian and asked, "What should we do next?"

Suddenly called upon, Xiao Yuxian tensed up and shook his head after pondering, his brow furrowed. He had never dealt with such matters before and was unsure of what to do.

Seeing his reaction, Tang Shuyi didn't say much and turned back to Xue Ji, "Tonight, I'll give you some men to pose as his creditors. They'll drive him towards Anmu."

Xue Ji acknowledged, thinking to himself that Lady Hou was not only meticulous in her thinking but also seemed to be guiding the eldest son. Lady Hou truly had it tough, playing the role of both mother and father.

Having said what needed to be said, and after a few pleasantries, Xue Ji was ready to leave. At that moment, Cui Zhu came over with two gift boxes. Tang Shuyi said with a smile, "These are little trinkets for the children."

Xue Ji hurriedly expressed his gratitude, then left with the gifts. The small hall was left with only mother and son. Xiao Yuxian looked at Tang Shuyi, hesitating to speak. Tang Shuyi slowly sipped her tea and said, "Speak your mind."

"Didn't you say that you only talk business with Xue Ji and not personal matters? Then why did you just relate to him as family and give him gifts?" Xiao Yuxian asked, puzzled.

Tang Shuyi set down her teacup and patiently explained, "Did Xue Ji deal with his colleague because they were relatives?"

Xiao Yuxian shook his head, "It's because he was also afraid that the incident would be exposed and implicate him."

"Exactly," Tang Shuyi spread her hands, "Talking about family ties and giving reciprocal gifts are just formalities to keep relations smooth for collaboration. But when it comes to serious matters, it's all about interests."

Xiao Yuxian understood, but he felt he couldn't handle such formalities. Moreover, he wouldn't have thought of the idea to pose men as creditors to drive someone away. Realizing this, his posture slumped, a hint of defeat in his demeanor.

Tang Shuyi glanced at him, knowing that the child still had much to learn. After a moment of silence, she asked, "What do you think growth is?"

Xiao Yuxian furrowed his brow in thought and replied, "To learn and to apply."

"That's too vague," Tang Shuyi said. "One is to learn; learn what is useful to you, learn what you don't know. The second is to do; do what you're afraid of, what you're incapable of. Master these two, and you will grow."

Xiao Yuxuan frowned in thought after hearing this. Tang Shuyi didn't press him further, allowing him to ponder on his own. Rushing a child's development had to be done step by step.

Tang Shuyi continued to leisurely sip her tea, anticipating that Chang Feng and Steward Zhao should be returning from Xi Mountain soon.

Sure enough, not long after, the two arrived, covered in dust. Xiao Yuxuan, lost in thought, saw them and asked anxiously, "How is Miss Qin?"

Chang Feng, looking at his young master, dared not speak. The conditions at the manor were worse than those for the lowest servants in the house. Seeing this, Tang Shuyi commanded, "Just speak."

Her demeanor had lost its previous calmness, replaced now by seriousness and authority.

Chang Feng dared not dawdle any longer and cautiously glanced at Xiao Yuxuan before saying, "We brought Miss Liu and her maid to the Xi Mountain estate overnight. We arranged two rooms for them and left twenty taels of silver."

"What? Just twenty taels of silver!" Xiao Yuxuan stood up abruptly, causing pain in his knee from the sudden movement. Wincing, he urgently asked, "Why only arrange two rooms? What kind of rooms are they?"

Chang Feng lowered his head, not speaking. How could the rooms on the estate be any good? Just rooms with earthen walls and beds. But he couldn't say this; if he did, it would send his young master into a frenzy.

However, it was then that the lady of the manor coldly ordered, "Chang Feng, tell him what those rooms are like."

Chang Feng pursed his lips, managed a stiff smile towards Xiao Yuxuan, and said, "The rooms are quite nice, equipped with tables, chairs, and beds. Right next to those two rooms is the kitchen, which makes it convenient for Miss Liu and her maid to prepare food."

"Do you think I've never been to the estate? Don't I know what it's like there?" Xiao Yuxuan shouted at Chang Feng. "And what about twenty taels of silver? That's barely enough for a meal."

Chang Feng looked down at his toes, thinking to himself that his young master really lacked insight. Didn't he see how cold the lady of the manor's expression had become? And yet here he was, spouting words that would only anger her further. Chang Feng braced himself for her wrath.

As expected, in the next instant, the lady of the manor scoffed, "Twenty taels of silver is enough for what? Steward Zhao, tell him what twenty taels can do."

Whenever Miss Liu Beiqin was involved, this adopted son would become indignant.

"Twenty taels of silver is enough for Miss Liu to settle down," Steward Zhao explained, counting on his fingers. "Ten taels can buy two mu of land. A mu of land yields two to three shi of rice per year. Let's calculate based on two shi. Two mu would yield four shi of rice a year, sufficient for Miss Liu's annual consumption. With the other ten taels, she can buy cloth and thread for daily embroidery and sell her work to save some money."

Xiao Yuxuan was astonished; he never knew twenty taels of silver could accomplish so much. Sometimes he would spend twenty taels just on a meal outside. But how could Miss Qin endure a farmer's life?

"But Miss Qin isn't a farmer's daughter!" Xiao Yuxuan exclaimed and hurried outside. He couldn't let Miss Qin live such a life.

However, he had knelt in the ancestral hall for an entire night, causing searing pain in his knees when exerted. Now, in his haste, he almost fell to the ground due to the strain, but Chang Feng managed to support him.

"Liu Beiqin indeed isn't a farmer's daughter, but she is the daughter of a convicted criminal. Without anyone to care for her, she would either be in a brothel or enslaved by now. Her status isn't even as high as that of a farmer's daughter," Tang Shuyi raised her voice from behind him.

This is the naked reality!

Chapter 10: What Will You Do?

Xiaoyu Chen felt that his seventeen years of life had never been as rough and difficult as now. As the heir to the marquis, he hadn't shouldered his responsibilities, and as a man, he couldn't protect the woman he loved.

"Mother," Xiaoyu Chen turned around, his movements hindered by the pain in his leg. He looked at Tang Shuyi with a pleading gaze, "You've sent Qin Meimei to the Xishan villa, which is fine, but could you perhaps take better care of her? She's never suffered hardship since she was born."

Looking at Xiaoyu Chen's somewhat immature face, Tang Shuyi sighed inwardly. This foster son's feelings for Liu Bichen were truly sincere. If Liu Bichen felt the same about him, she wouldn't stand in their way. But it was clear that this foolish son's love was misplaced.

"Hasn't our house already given her enough care?" Tang Shuyi's voice softened, "I told you before, relationships between people can be based on emotion or interest. Tell me, is your relationship with Liu Bichen based on emotion or interest?"

"Naturally, it's based on emotion," Xiaoyu Chen replied without hesitation.

"Good," Tang Shuyi looked at him and said, "Since it's based on emotion, let's not talk too much about interest. In time, we'll see just how much emotion Liu Bichen has for you."

"But..."

"What is it?" Tang Shuyi interrupted him, "Are you not confident in her feelings for you?"

Xiaoyu Chen clenched his fist and said in a low voice, "No."

"Then let's give it a try," Tang Shuyi said decisively, "Starting now, you will not give Liu Bichen any additional aid. In half a year, if her feelings for you haven't changed, I will agree to let her enter our house."

"Really?" Xiaoyu Chen was overjoyed, his eyes shining with the brightest light they had held in days.

Tang Shuyi was momentarily dazzled by his gleaming gaze, then looked away and said, "I never speak falsely. But, if Liu Bichen's heart changes within half a year, what will you do?"

"I…" The thought of Liu Bichen changing her heart caused Xiaoyu Chen immense pain, but he still gritted his teeth and said, "If she changes her heart, I will naturally let her go."

"Good!" Tang Shuyi walked up to him, patted his shoulder heartily, and declared, "My son is decisive!"

Ah, the folly of youth!

Tang Shuyi walked towards the door, then turned back to add, "You're in charge of expelling people tonight. Ask Zhao, the housekeeper, for assistance."

"Do I also need to send a letter to Grandfather Anmu?" Xiaoyu Chen's voice trembled with excitement. His parents had always pushed him to study and never entrusted him with any responsibilities. Now, even being assigned a minor task excited him immensely.

Seeing the eagerness in his eyes and brows, Tang Shuyi realized her son did have some redeeming qualities. At the very least, he wanted to change for the better. With an approving look, she said, "Of course, you go and speak with your grandfather."

Hearing this, Xiaoyu Chen felt a bit deflated, knowing that his secret rescue of Qin Meimei couldn't be kept from his grandfather, who would undoubtedly scold him.

Tang Shuyi didn't care about that; she took Cuizhu and Cuiyun back to Shi'an Garden. One must bear the consequences of one's sins.

As the commotion died down, Xiaoyu Chen's knee began to hurt again, and Changfeng hurriedly let him lean on him. Seeing this, Housekeeper Zhao asked, "Young master, should I arrange a carriage for you, or will you walk back?"

Housekeeper Zhao's tone carried a hint of disdain, belittling the young for not being able to bear even a little pain.

How could a young man withstand such direct provocation? Clenching his teeth, Xiaoyu Chen grunted, "I'll walk back."

Housekeeper Zhao grinned, "I knew the young master has the backbone of a marquis."

Xiaoyu Chen grunted again, "Prepare the carriage for me; I'm going to the Duke Tang's residence shortly."

"Right away, young master," said Housekeeper Zhao, bowing to Xiaoyu Chen before turning to arrange the carriage. He thought to himself that children needed to suffer a bit to grow up; the Marchioness had always spoiled her two sons too much.

Supported by Changfeng, Xiaoyu Chen limped back to his Qingfeng Pavilion. Once in his bedroom, he rolled up his pant legs, revealing knees bruised purple against his pale skin, a terrifying sight.

Changfeng hurried to get medicine while Changming muttered softly, "Why are you so stubborn? The lady wasn't even watching you in the ancestral hall."

"Shut up," Xiaoyu Chen scolded coldly.

Changming pursed his lips and said nothing. Changfeng brought the medicine and applied it to the two bruised knees. Xiaoyu Chen grimaced in pain but didn't forget to ask Changfeng, "Tell me the truth, what's the situation at the Xishan villa?"

As Changfeng applied the medicine, he said, "The food and living conditions naturally can't compare to before, but she definitely won't starve or freeze, nor will she be overworked."

"Exactly," Changming chimed in, "Just endure it for half a year; think of it as a... a test for you and Miss Liu."

Changfeng added, "Miss Liu and you have been childhood friends, your affection spanning many years; why fear this small test?"

Changming agreed, "Right, right."

Xiaoyu Chen pursed his lips, "I know, I'm just worried about her."

He was naturally full of confidence in their relationship.

Changfeng and Changming exchanged glances, both thinking their young master was overly confident.

"Oh, and," Changming said, "Miss Wu, the second daughter, has fallen into the water and remains unconscious; shouldn't you pay a visit?"

It was only then that Xiao Yuchen remembered he had a fiancée. He had no impression of Miss Wu Er, let alone any affection. He simply said, "Mother will probably send someone to visit her."

Changming and Changfeng exchanged another look, sighing for Miss Wu Er.

After applying medicine and changing his clothes, Xiao Yuchen went to the Duke Tang's residence with Changming and Changfeng.

At Shi'an Garden, Tang Shuyi was instructing Cuizhu: "When you get to the Wu's, just convey my regards to Miss Wu Er and that will suffice. You don't have to do anything else."

"Shouldn't I inquire about Miss Wu Er's condition?" Cuizhu felt that her mistress was unusually indifferent towards Miss Wu Er.

Tang Shuyi replied, "Just deliver the gifts, extend the greetings, and then come back."

Talking more leads to more mistakes. If my guess is correct, Wu Jingyun must have been reborn and is now plotting how to expose Xiao Yuchen for harboring the daughter of a criminal.

"Alright." Although Cuizhu didn't understand why her mistress suddenly changed her attitude towards Miss Wu Er, she obediently took the gifts and went to the Wu's residence.

The Wu's residence wasn't far from the marquis's mansion; a short carriage ride of less than a quarter of an hour sufficed. The Wu family was a scholarly family, even the gate tower was elegantly constructed. Cuizhu announced her affiliation with the marquis's mansion at the door, and soon a smiling maid around forty years old approached.

Cuizhu had seen this maid before; she was one of Madam Wu's attendants.

"Our Miss woke up last night, and our madam cried tears of joy for a good while. Miss is the apple of our madam's eye…"

On the way, the maid praised Wu Jingyun extensively, but Cuizhu realized none of it was actually flattering. She couldn't help but feel sympathy for Miss Wu Er; living under a stepmother must be tough.

After walking for a while, they finally reached Wu Jingyun's courtyard, which was quite secluded.

The maid smiled and said to Cuizhu, "Initially, our madam arranged the best courtyard for Miss, but she prefers quietness and chose this place herself."

As a servant girl, Cuizhu naturally couldn't comment, so she just smiled, followed the maid into the courtyard, and then lifted the curtain to enter the room.

Wu Jingyun was leaning against the head of the bed, her complexion pale. Despite this, she didn't seem overly frail.

She was a dignified and graceful beauty.

Cuizhu bowed to her and then said with a smile, "My mistress heard of your fall into the water and was very worried. She wanted to visit you personally, but she was tied up with affairs at the mansion."

Wu Jingyun, leaning against the headboard, recognized Cuizhu, the chief maid of the marquis's wife. They had interacted quite a bit in her previous life. She smiled and said, "I'm not in any serious trouble now. Please tell your mistress not to worry about me."

Cuizhu remembered Tang Shuyi's instructions and didn't linger long at the Wu's residence. After exchanging a few more words with Wu Jingyun, she took her leave. Watching her leave, Wu Jingyun's expression turned somewhat melancholic. During the lifetime of the previous marquis's wife, those were the best times she had at the marquis's residence.

Despite Xiao Yuchen's affection for Liu Biqin, the Marchioness's disapproval weighed heavily on him, suppressing their relationship. However, it wasn't long before the Marchioness fell ill and passed away.

For a time, Wu Jingyun even suspected that the Marchioness's death was orchestrated by Liu Biqin. After all, Liu stood to gain the most from her demise. But these were mere speculations, without evidence to substantiate them.

However, if Liu Biqin truly was responsible for the Marchioness's death in a previous life, by preventing her entry into the Marquis's household this time around, Wu Jingyun felt she was potentially saving the Marchioness's life.

Wu Jingyun's thoughts returned to the present as she contemplated whom to inform about Xiao Yuchen harboring the daughter of a convicted traitor. Should she approach the Empress's family or the Minister of Revenue, Qi Liangsheng?