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.

2. 11 to 20

Chapter 11: Blame Only Yourself

Wu Jingyun leaned against the headboard, fiddling with a jade hairpin as she weighed the merits of informing the Empress's family against those of notifying Minister Qi Liangsheng.

Minister Qi Liangsheng's feud with the Marquis of Yongning was said to have roots in their youth. When the Marquis was still alive, encounters between the two were marked by hostility and unyielding enmity.

However, since the Marquis's death, Qi Liangsheng hadn't taken any noticeable actions against the Marquis's household.

The Empress's family bore a grudge against the Marquis's household for two reasons. Firstly, the Empress had once attempted to win over the Marquis, only to face rejection. Her son, the Second Prince, harbored resentment towards Xiao Huai and devised a scheme to entrap the Marquis, only to have it backfire spectacularly.

Secondly, the Empress's sister-in-law, the current matriarch of the Liang family, had harbored affections for the Marquis but was spurned in favor of the current Marchioness. She had since held a grudge against the Marchioness.

Comparing the two, Minister Qi appeared more gentlemanly, while the Liang family was notoriously bold and reckless. Disclosing the information to the Liang family seemed likely to cause greater damage to the Marquis's household.

So, the Liang family it would be.

Wu Jingyun gazed at her delicate, pale fingers and took a deep breath. "Marchioness, don't blame me," she thought. "It's your own son's incompetence that has led to this."

Once she made up her mind, Wu Jingyun didn't hesitate. Rising from her bed, she sought out a piece of ordinary writing paper and began to pen her message with her left hand. She meticulously detailed the crimes of the Liu family, the punishment Liu Biqin deserved, and Xiao Yuchen's role in harboring her.

Satisfied with the letter, Wu Jingyun reviewed it with a smile. Although the handwriting was somewhat crude, it was untraceable to her. The time wasn't right for an open confrontation with the Marquis's household, and she couldn't risk being identified as the whistleblower against Xiao Yuchen.

Both the Marquis's household and the Duke of Tang's family had deep roots in the capital; even if the scandal broke, it would only harm Xiao Yuchen and the Marquis's household, not bring them down. Moreover, being known as the one responsible would damage her reputation.

After all, she was still betrothed to Xiao Yuchen. Exposing one's fiancé, guilty or not, would inevitably taint her with a reputation for ruthlessness.

But as for Liu Biqin, Wu Jingyun was determined to make her life a living hell.

Taking a deep breath, Wu Jingyun neatly folded the letter, placed it in an envelope, and then summoned her maid to help her dress and apply makeup. Before leaving, she would need to report her departure to Lady Feng. But given Lady Feng's current pretense of maternal affection, complying with her every wish, it was unlikely she would object.

True to her expectations, Lady Feng gave her loving instructions and permitted her to leave the residence.

As the carriage rolled out the door, Wu Jingyun listened to the rumbling sound and peeked through the curtain. The weather was sunny, the sunlight a bit dazzling, but its warmth was intoxicating.

The streets were bustling with life and noise.

In her previous life, she had been bedridden for a long time, almost a year without stepping outside before her death. Now, looking at the lively streets, she couldn't help but smile; being alive and healthy was truly wonderful.

Dropping the curtain, she glanced at the letter in her hand. Her plan was to find a street urchin and have him deliver it to the Liang residence.

The old and powerful families of the capital lived in the eastern part, and the Liang family, having risen to prominence only after Lady Liang became favored, resided in the southern part, a fair distance from the Wu household. It took nearly half an hour to reach by carriage.

She had the coachman stop near the Liang residence and peered through the curtain for a street urchin but instead spotted a familiar blue figure not far away.

It was Xiao Yuchen, the young Xiao Yuchen.

Just as she remembered, unmatched like a noble jade in the mortal world.

Her heart swelled with pain, her hand gripping the yet-to-be-delivered letter tightly as her vision blurred with tears.

In her previous life, they had their moments of warmth, but as Xiao Yuchen grew indifferent and with Liu Biqin's endless scheming, those warm times had been buried under her pain and hatred. Surprisingly, they resurfaced now.

"Miss, what's wrong?" Her maid, Xing'er, noticed her tears and looked worried.

"It's nothing," Wu Jingyun dabbed her tears with a handkerchief, smoothing out the crumpled letter. Xiao Yuchen, don't blame me for being ruthless. I can't live well in this life without avenging the last. Blame yourself.

Taking a deep breath, she resolutely handed the letter to Xing'er and instructed her on what to do. Xing'er took the letter, lifted the curtain to alight, and Wu Jingyun handed her a veiled hat, "Wear this."

To avoid being recognized.

Xing'er donned the hat and approached a street urchin after disembarking. She handed him a few copper coins, repeated the instructions several times, and then watched from a corner as the urchin approached the Liang residence.

Compared to the Wu residence, the Liang residence's gate was grand and luxurious, with two imposing guards standing at the entrance.

Spotting a street urchin approaching from afar, the guards started shooing him away, "Scram, this isn't a place for you."

The urchin was frightened but, clutching the few copper coins in his pocket, mustered the courage to run forward, stopping two meters away from the guards, holding up the letter, "This is… it's for Lady Liang's second wife, very important, you'll be punished if it doesn't reach her."

After delivering his message, the urchin thrust the letter into one of the guard's hands and scurried away. The guard, holding the letter, was unsure what to do; a letter from a street urchin to the second wife could spell trouble.

But what if, as the urchin claimed, it was indeed important? The guards deliberated for a moment and decided to pass it to the steward, leaving the decision to him.

The butler of the Liang residence hesitated upon receiving the letter before handing it over to Nanny Cai, who was in the service of the second wife. Nanny Cai, holding the letter, entered the courtyard of the second wife, only to see the two concubines of the second master kneeling on the porch, their faces marked with the prints of slaps.

Pretending not to notice, she lifted the curtain and entered the room where the second wife was having her nails tended to by a young maid, her hands pale and plump. Approaching with a respectful bow, she said, "Second madam, the butler has sent a letter, it is for you."

She omitted the mention of the beggar boy, knowing well that the second wife would never touch the letter otherwise.

Second Madam Liang glanced at the letter in Nanny Cai's hand and asked languidly, "Who has sent it?"

"The butler did not say," replied Nanny Cai as she passed the letter. The second wife took it with impatience, opened it, and upon seeing the poorly written characters, she felt an urge to rage. However, catching sight of the words 'Marquis of Yongning's residence' at the top, she suppressed her anger and began to read carefully.

The more she read, the higher the corners of her lips curled, and upon finishing, she burst into laughter, exclaiming, "Tang Shuyi, I shall see how you can gloat this time."

Having gained a bit of weight over the years, the second wife's chins quivered as she laughed. She put away the letter and, with a triumphant look, instructed Nanny Cai, "Go summon the second master, tell him it's about the Marquis of Yongning's residence."

Nanny Cai hastened to the front courtyard at once. The discord between the Liang family and the Marquis of Yongning's residence was common knowledge in the capital.

Arriving at the front courtyard, she found the second master painting in his study, with a beautiful young maid standing demurely at the side. Their glances intertwined occasionally, full of unspoken words.

"Second master, the second madam requests your presence," said Nanny Cai.

"I'm busy," the second master dismissed her with a wave of his hand, clearly annoyed.

"The second madam says it concerns the Marquis of Yongning's residence," she added.

The second master paused in his painting, his brows furrowed briefly before he handed the brush to the beautiful maid and strode toward the back courtyard.

Chapter 12: Unwilling to Ponder Deeply

The imperial concubine Liang had entered the palace through selection. Her father was originally a county magistrate of the eighth rank. The Liang family had moved to the capital only after she became favored.

Such a family was often looked down upon by many of the capital's nobility. But with the imperial concubine's favor and having birthed the second prince, every son of the emperor held the potential to ascend the throne. Thus, despite their disdain, the established nobles of the capital afforded the Liang family a measure of respect.

As the full brother of the imperial concubine Liang, the second master held a high status within the Liang family, with even the butler's power residing in the hands of his wife.

The imperial concubine was a woman of stunning beauty, and as her brother, the second master Liang also possessed an impressive appearance. With his phoenix eyes and aquiline nose, he had a tall and noble bearing, truly a picture of graceful charm.

Upon entering the second wife's courtyard, the second master immediately noticed his two concubines kneeling on the porch. They were new, having been accepted just last month. Yet, he ignored them and lifted the curtain to step inside.

There was no lack of beautiful women, and he certainly wasn't short of two.

After he took his seat, a young maid promptly served him tea. He glanced impatiently at Lady Liang the Second and asked directly, "What is it?"

Lady Liang the Second hadn't seen him for many days and had wanted to share a few intimate words, but seeing his indifferent demeanor, she grew angry and said through clenched teeth, "Can't I summon you without reason?"

Hearing this, Master Liang the Second stood up and headed for the door. Lady Liang the Second quickly said, "There's a letter for you."

Master Liang the Second turned back, took the letter from her hand, and frowned upon seeing the handwriting. Nevertheless, he patiently read through it. After finishing, a smile appeared on his face, "Where did this letter come from?"

Lady Liang the Second recounted how she received the letter and asked, "Do you think what's written here is true or false?"

Master Liang the Second pondered for a moment, "Most likely true. Wasn't there talk about that young Xiao lad being childhood sweethearts with the Li family's girl?"

"Yes, it was said that if the Li family hadn't fallen into misfortune, the two families would have become in-laws." Lady Liang the Second sneered, "Tang Shuyi is also quite the opportunist, isn't she? She just watches from the sidelines when the Li family is in trouble."

Master Liang the Second glanced at her, "Do you know for sure if she's merely an onlooker?"

"If she isn't, all the better. Let her take a hard fall this time." Lady Liang the Second would be pleased as long as it didn't bode well for Tang Shuyi.

"True or not, we'll see soon enough." Master Liang the Second picked up the letter and stood up to leave. Lady Liang the Second also got up, "I'm coming too."

Master Liang the Second stopped and turned back, "What for?"

Lady Liang the Second straightened her clothes and replied with casual ease, "To watch Tang Shuyi's downfall."

"As you wish." Master Liang the Second lifted the curtain and left. Lady Liang the Second, seeing his eagerness to leave, nearly ground her teeth to dust. She vowed to deal with all the vixens in his household someday.

The couple met at the entrance of their mansion, and their carriages headed toward Plum Blossom Lane.

On the way, Lady Liang the Second said to Cai Mammy by her side, "Everyone in the capital used to praise Tang Shuyi for her good fortune. Born into a good family, doted on by her parents and siblings, and adored by her husband after marriage. Even if Xiao Huai spoils her, what good does it do? He's dead now. This time, her son is harboring the daughter of a criminal. I'd like to see how she cries over this."

She laughed again at the thought, "Everyone said Xiao Huai loved her deeply and had no one else by his side. Ha, after Xiao Huai died, how come two concubines were sent over?"

"Her days must be hard now," Cai Mammy knew exactly what Lady Liang the Second liked to hear and naturally fed into her narrative.

She continued, "The man is dead, and the child is no better. Who in the capital doesn't know of the young Master Xiao's nickname? We thought at least her eldest son, though not very talented, was well-behaved and stayed out of trouble. Turns out he's also a troublemaker."

Lady Liang the Second laughed heartily; Tang Shuyi's misfortunes were her delight.

The carriage rumbled into Plum Blossom Lane. Accompanied by a significant entourage, they immediately drew attention. Neither Lady Liang the Second nor Master Liang the Second alighted from their carriage, but the insignia of the Liang family prominently displayed on the carriage proclaimed their status.

The Liang estate's steward stood at the courtyard gate, knocking with an air of authority. However, despite a lengthy attempt, there was no response. Approaching Master Liang Er's carriage, he murmured, "Second Master, it appears there's no one inside."

Narrowing his eyes, Liang Er commanded, "Break in. If anyone inquires, say we're pursuing a runaway slave from our estate."

In recent years, the Liang family had grown brazen in their conduct; forcing an entry was a trivial matter for them. Led by the steward, a few servants quickly smashed open the door. They rushed in, only to find the quaint courtyard deserted.

The steward reported back to Master Liang Er, whose brows furrowed in confusion. Could this be someone's idea of a prank?

Madam Liang Er, who had been eagerly anticipating Tang Shuyi's humiliation, also learned of the empty courtyard. Her disappointment was palpable, unable to accept the turn of events, she pushed aside the carriage curtains, stepped down, and swiftly entered the courtyard.

Indeed, it was deserted.

Turning around, she slapped her maid, Cai Mama, across the face, "Find out who delivered that letter. I want to see who dares make a fool of me."

Clutching her cheek, Cai Mama hurriedly nodded and scuttled off to find the steward, from whom she had received the letter. The steward himself was now breaking out in a cold sweat...

At that moment, Changming was crouched behind a tea stall at the entrance to the alley, peering inside. His heart raced. Thankfully, his lady had sent Liu Biqin away the night before; otherwise, a disaster would have ensued.

Once he had a clear grasp of the situation, he hurried over to a carriage parked nearby. Gasping for air, he reported, "Young Master, the Liangs have broken down the door and a bunch of them have gone inside. Later, Madam Liang also entered."

"What?" Xiao Yuchen in the carriage stood up abruptly, bumping his head against the roof in his shock, grimacing in pain.

"Young Master, it's true. I saw it with my own eyes," Changming added in a hushed tone, "Wasn't that close? Had it been a few hours later..."

"Stop, let's return... return home," Xiao Yuchen interrupted, his face pale and hands trembling. It was his first time experiencing such a close call. Had they delayed sending Sister Qin away by even a few hours, everything would've been exposed. And then...

He couldn't bear to think further.

Changfeng hastily instructed the coachman to drive away, equally shaken.

Meanwhile, Wu Jingyun's carriage was also nearby. Her maid, Xinger, relayed the events unfolding in the alley, "...Several people went in, but it seems there was no one inside. Later, Madam Liang also entered but came out looking utterly frustrated."

"Impossible!" Wu Jingyun's voice rose to a sharp pitch.

In her past life, Liu Biqin had been living there all along, up until two months after she and Xiao Yuchen were married. It was her maid who had escorted Liu Biqin from there to the Marquis' estate. She remembered it vividly; how could there be no one inside?

How could this be? How could this be?

Could someone else have been reborn like her?

The thought of such a possibility sent Wu Jingyun into a cold sweat. Leaning weakly against the carriage wall, she uttered, "Quickly, back to the estate."

Her carriage sped towards the Wu estate, while the Liang family's carriage also left Mei Hua Alley. Madame Liang climbed into Second Master Liang's carriage and asked, "What do you think, is the content of the letter true or not?"

Narrowing his eyes in thought for a moment, Second Master Liang said, "True or false, I shall investigate as if it's true. If it happened, there must be traces. All the women of the Liu family were to be sold. If it's true, how did that Xiao kid manage to get them out? Who did he go through?"

"Right, investigate, thoroughly," Madame Liang said through gritted teeth, "Otherwise… whether we find anything or not, we should pin it on Xiao Yuchen."

"Foolish," Second Master Liang looked at her with disdain, "The Duke of Tang is an old fox; he would counterattack at the slightest slip."

Gnashing her teeth in frustration, Madame Liang hissed, "Why is there no one inside?"

How wonderful it would have been if Liu Biqin were there.

Seeing her gritting her teeth, Second Master Liang said with a half-smile, "Xiao Huai is dead, and yet you're still obsessed with him?"

"Don't slander me," Madame Liang flared up in embarrassed anger, to which Second Master Liang chuckled, "Even if you were obsessed with him, I wouldn't care."

Madame Liang's face twisted in hatred, while Second Master Liang appeared nonchalant. The two of them rode on in silence.

Upon arriving at the Liang estate, Second Master Liang summoned his confidant and instructed, "Go to the Ministry of Punishment and look into the situation of the Liu family, especially Liu Biqin."

Chapter 13: Unable to Bear This Humiliation

Xiao Yuchen returned to the marquis's estate with his heart pounding and hurried towards Tang Shuyi's courtyard. With an injured knee and his brisk pace, his journey was quite a stumble. Seeing him like this, Tang Shuyi thought there had been a raid or something?

"What happened?" she asked.

"Mother," Xiao Yuchen found himself at a loss for words in front of Tang Shuyi. He didn't know what to say or how to say it; he was frightened after the fact. He had always believed his actions were undetectable, and he had never considered what would happen if they were exposed.

He was now frightened, guilt-ridden, and deeply self-reproachful.

Tang Shuyi tightened inside when she saw him like this and asked, "What happened? Did your grandfather scold you?"

Xiao Yuchen shook his head and then sat down, still silent.

At this moment, Cui Zhu brought over a cup of tea and placed it beside him. He picked it up and gulped it down in several large swigs. The maids in the room were shocked; their esteemed young master had never lost his composure like this.

"What exactly happened?" Tang Shuyi asked, anxious to pry open his mouth.

Xiao Yuchen looked at him, resembling a startled pup, "Just now... the Liang family went to Mei Hua Alley and burst into that residence."

Tang Shuyi was taken aback, but the anxious expression on her face soon dissipated.

Wu Jingyun acted swiftly.

"Mother, are you not shocked at all?" Xiao Yuchen asked, his hands still trembling.

After sipping her tea, Tang Shuyi said, "I've told you before, you cannot hide fire within paper. Once an act is committed, one must be prepared for it to be discovered. Regret and fear are useless now that it has been exposed; what matters is how to resolve it."

Seeing her composure, Xiao Yuchen suddenly realized he was too unsettled and sat up straight, looking earnestly at Tang Shuyi, eager to hear her plan.

But Tang Shuyi asked him, "What do you think we should do now?"

Xiao Yuchen felt much calmer and pondered seriously before saying, "Since the Liang family has gone to Mei Hua Alley, they will surely investigate at the Ministry of Punishment as well. Our plan was to hurry Pan Shan to leave the capital tonight, but now we must move it up."

Tang Shuyi gave him an approving look, "However, we can't make our move now. The daytime is too busy with prying eyes, and the Liang family will definitely be watching us."

"First, we hide Pan Shan until the Liang family lowers their guard, then we send him away," Xiao Yuchen said.

Tang Shuyi nodded, then asked, "Anything else?"

Pleased with Tang Shuyi's agreement, Xiao Yuchen thought hard and then added, "Send someone to keep an eye on the Liang family's movements. Know thyself, know thy enemy."

"Very good," Tang Shuyi said with a smile of relief, "The youngster is progressing."

"Leave it to Steward Zhao," Tang Shuyi continued, "He used to be an aide under your grandfather."

Those who have served in the military tend to be more reliable.

Xiao Yuchen clenched his fist in excitement, instructing Chang Feng to call for Steward Zhao.

Tang Shuyi picked up her jade-green teacup and took a sip, saying thoughtfully, "It's only proper to return a courtesy. The Liang family has come knocking, and we must strike back."

"How... do we strike back?" Xiao Yuchen's eyes sparkled as he looked at Tang Shuyi. His mother was truly formidable.

"The Liang family burst into my property without cause and destroyed things in my courtyard; our Marquis of Yongning's estate cannot bear such an affront," Tang Shuyi said leisurely.

Xiao Yuchen thought: But it seems they didn't actually destroy anything, right?

"But that's not important," he asked, "What do you plan to do?"

Tang Shuyi replied, "Go to the yamen and sue them. Make a list and demand compensation."

Xiao Yuchen's eyes sparkled with curiosity, marveling at how effortlessly his mother handled matters.

At that moment, Steward Zhao approached. Tang Shuyi remained silent while Xiao Yuchen relayed the instructions item by item. Steward Zhao respectfully noted each one, then inquired, "How much compensation should we demand from the Liang household, and on what grounds?"

Xiao Yuchen glanced at Tang Shuyi, knowing he had never been concerned with financial matters and naturally had no idea how to demand compensation from the Liang family.

After pondering for a moment, Tang Shuyi said, "The Liang family trespassed into private property, broke my gate, ruined the rockery in my estate, and even killed my fish. Those rocks were transported from Mount Putuo, each one blessed by a high monk.

"Moreover, those were Chi Lin fish, each worth a fortune. Including the damage to some valuable furniture, the total loss adds up to... thirty thousand taels would still be an underestimation. But we are not petty people; a loss can be tolerated. Let it be thirty thousand taels."

The room fell into a profound silence...

Xiao Yuchen mused, "So, matters can be handled this way!"

Steward Zhao couldn't help thinking, "I never expected the lady to be such a person."

Cui Yun and Cui Zhu looked on in admiration.

"I'll make arrangements right away," Steward Zhao said as he bowed, lifting the door curtain and stepping out with footsteps as swift as the wind. The lady truly has changed. If she could always be like this, the marquis's estate would surely never fall.

"May the heavens bless us, may the old marquis and the current marquis protect us," Steward Zhao muttered under his breath, but his body was filled with vigor.

Meanwhile, Tang Shuyi leaned against the brocade couch and said to Xiao Yuchen, "Go back to your courtyard and review the events."

"Review?" Xiao Yuchen didn't understand the meaning of the word.

Tang Shuyi paused for a moment, inadvertently using a modern term. She explained calmly, "It means to think through the entire matter from beginning to end. Consider what was done well, if anything could have been done better, what wasn't done well, why it wasn't, and what should be done instead."

After some thought, Xiao Yuchen remarked, "Mother's use of the word is ingenious, 'review'—to repeatedly contemplate."

Tang Shuyi gestured for him to leave, but Xiao Yuchen stayed seated, "I'll accompany Mother for lunch."

Tang Shuyi glanced at the time; it was indeed almost lunchtime, so she let him stay for the meal. Shortly after, Xiao Yuzhu and Xiao Yuming also returned, and the family of four sat down to eat together.

Xiao Yuzhu and Xiao Yuming bickered from time to time, while Xiao Yuchen played the role of the elder brother; the atmosphere was quite pleasant. Tang Shuyi watched them, feeling content with how things were progressing.

In her previous life, her parents had divorced when she was very young, and then they remarried. She lived with her grandparents, and after they passed away, she was on her own. These moments of family togetherness were a long-forgotten memory for her.

While she was lost in memories of her past life, suddenly, Xiao Yuzhu picked up a dish and splashed it onto Xiao Yuming, who then pushed Xiao Yuzhu to the ground in retaliation.

Xiao Yuzhu burst into tears, stood up, and crying, picked up another dish from the table to splash onto Xiao Yuming, inadvertently splattering Tang Shuyi and Xiao Yuchen with sauce as well.

Xiao Yuming, never one to suffer a loss, raised his hand to slap Xiao Yuzhu.

The scene descended into utter chaos.

Tang Shuyi, flushed with anger, picked up a bowl from beside her and smashed it onto the ground, instantly silencing the room.

She was wrong; the word 'harmony' had nothing to do with this family; they were nothing but a scene of utter commotion!

"Why?" Tang Shuyi asked Xiao Yuzhu and Xiao Yuming with a cold voice.

"He insisted on snatching the shrimp I wanted to eat," Xiao Yuzhu cried, pointing at Xiao Yuming, who retorted with clenched fists, "That dish wasn't yours alone, why can't I eat it?"

"I ordered it this morning, it's mine."

"Even if it's yours, what's it to you? If I want to eat it, I will."

"You can't eat my dish."

"I will eat it anyway."

…

Tang Shuyi had never seen siblings fight like this. Taking a deep breath to suppress the urge to discipline these unruly children, she said, "All three of you, copy the 'Disciples' Rules' five times and recite it ten times."

Xiao Yuchen looked perplexed, "Me too?"

"The three of you share the same mother; one's honor is another's, and so is the disgrace," Tang Shuyi left them with these words and headed towards the inner chamber, only to stop after a few steps, turn around and add, "No washing up, copy it as you are."

A day without discipline is like a day without fixing the roof!

Tang Shuyi went into the inner chamber to change her clothes, and Cui Yun led the three siblings to the study. Tang Shuyi's study was spacious, and the desk was large enough to comfortably accommodate three people.

"The lady has been extremely preoccupied these last few days, scarcely having a moment's rest," Cui Yun said while preparing ink and paper for the three, "You, as her children, surely feel for the lady's burdens, don't you?"

Xiao Yuchen's face turned red at the mention; his mother was always troubled by his affairs. Xiao Yuming stiffened his neck in silence, while Xiao Yuzhu pouted and shed tears.

Cui Yun said nothing more and turned to leave the study.

PS: The fight has broken out!

It's said that in families with many siblings, it's almost impossible to avoid fights.

Chapter 14: Why Doesn't Tang Shuyi Ascend to Heaven?

In the spacious and bright study, Xiao Yuchen and Xiao Yuming had already started writing, but Xiao Yuzhu sat there crying, wailing, and sobbing, giving the others a headache.

"Can you stop wailing?" Xiao Yuming put down his brush and said, "Does crying make you right? It's such a big dish, and you can't finish it all; what's wrong with me eating a few bites?"

"You pulled my hair, why should I let you eat my dish?" Xiao Yuzhu, wiping her tears with her hand smeared with sauce, ended up making her little face look like a spotted cat.

Xiao Yuming didn't expect that her refusal to let him eat that dish was because he had pulled her hair. At a loss for words, he said, "I only touched you a bit."

Xiao Yuzhu glared at him with tear-reddened eyes, "Is that a touch? You skewed my hair bun."

Xiao Yuming touched his nose; he had simply ruffled the little girl's cute hair bun out of affection. Not expecting her to be annoyed, he admitted his fault, "Alright, I'll buy you a beaded hairpin later. Stop crying."

"I don't want your hairpin; write 'Disciples' Rules' three times for me," Xiao Yuzhu huffed. With his taste, he would surely choose an ugly hairpin.

"No way," Xiao Yuming immediately refused. Already restless by nature, writing 'Disciples' Rules' five times was nearly killing him, let alone adding three more times.

"Alright," Xiao Yuchen intervened, "Yuzhu, you write it twice; Yuming, six times; I'll do it seven times."

Xiao Yuzhu and Xiao Yuming exchanged glances and said to Xiao Yuchen, "Thank you, big brother."

Xiao Yuchen waved his hand, "Hurry up and write."

Xiao Yuming and Xiao Yuzhu picked up their brushes and began writing, quieting the room. If not for the stains of sauce on their bodies, it would be a scene of siblings diligently studying.

Cui Zhu overheard everything clearly and reported to Tang Shuyi. Hearing this, Tang Shuyi's anger subsided a bit, "Yuchen is making some progress."

"The young masters and miss are still young; you can teach them gradually," Cui Yun advised softly, while Cui Zhu cheerfully added, "With you as formidable as you are, madam, you'll surely raise the most outstanding young masters and miss in the capital."

Tang Shuyi laughed at her flattery, "You always know what to say."

The master and servants shared a laugh, and then Tang Shuyi began pondering over Xiao Yuzhu's education. An eight-year-old child, whose worldview and values were not yet fully formed, it wasn't too late to start teaching properly now.

But how should one teach?

Xiao Yuchen possesses the ability to think for himself. By explaining the principles clearly to him and giving him some practice, he could likely be guided back on the right path. But Xiao Yuzhu is only eight years old, and she has never cared for such a young child. And then there's Xiao Yuming, obviously quite the troublemaker, even resorting to hitting his own sister.

Unable to come up with a solution on the spot, she decided to put the matter aside for the time being.

While she was pondering over the education of the children, the Plum Blossom Lane was bustling with activity.

A plump old woman was shouting at the top of her lungs, "This is utterly lawless! In broad daylight, they've smashed up my master's residence. Neighbors and fellow residents, please bear witness..."

Her shouting drew a crowd, with some people standing at the entrance looking in. Inside the courtyard, the rockeries and swings were toppled, and the doors of two rooms were broken...

"What on earth happened here?"

"Didn't you see?"

"I didn't see it. Did you see who did it?"

"I saw it, but I can't say."

…

The crowd outside the residence was abuzz with speculation. Seeing that her purpose was achieved, the old woman locked the residence's door and left. Half an hour later, Deng Jitong, the prefectural magistrate of the capital, received a complaint from the Marquis of Yongning's estate, accusing Lord Liang Er, Liang Jian'an, of trespassing on private property.

Deng Jitong felt a headache coming on after reading the complaint. Serving as the prefectural magistrate of the capital was no easy task, with clusters of nobility that one couldn't afford to offend.

For instance, the Marquis of Yongning held a super-grade title; even though he was deceased, the Marchioness of Yongning was still a first-grade imperial order lady. How could he, a fifth-grade official, dare to offend her? And then there was the Liang family, the natal family of the Imperial Concubine, which was also untouchable!

However, this wasn't the first time he had dealt with skirmishes between the nobility, and he had some experience. With the complaint in hand, he took his sedan chair to the Liang residence.

At this moment, in the Liang residence, Lord Liang Er was receiving a report from his subordinates:

"Three days after Liu Yushan was beheaded, the female members of the Liu family were sold off in batches. My people checked the records of the sale, and Liu Biqin's name wasn't on them. Upon further inquiry, we found out that Liu Biqin had died of illness in the prison."

"Died of illness?" Lord Liang Er looked incredulous. "How could that be such a coincidence?"

"I thought the same and checked the relevant records. According to them, after Liu Biqin died, Xue Ji, the official in charge of redeeming sins at the Ministry of Justice, and Pan Shan, the jailer, dumped her body in the chaotic grave mound."

Master Liang chewed on the names of Xue Ji and Pan Shan, and his subordinate reported, "Xue Ji hails from a branch family of the Marquis of Wuyang's household, while Pan Shan is a lone drifter now. I inquired Xue Ji about the situation, and he confidently stated that Liu Biqin is dead, discarded by him at the Chaotic Tomb Mound. Pan Shan, I couldn't find. He's deep in gambling debts and is rumored to be dodging creditors these days."

Master Liang sneered, "Hmm, what a coincidence that Pan Shan is avoiding gambling debts."

"Since Pan Shan is untraceable, I'll try my luck with Xue Ji," the subordinate suggested.

"Use silver as bait; if it doesn't work, avoid force to prevent leaving any trace." Master Liang was surprised by how cleanly the Yongning Marquis Mansion had wiped their slate.

After the subordinate left, the steward came to report the arrival of Deng Jitong, the Prefect of the Capital. Master Liang frowned upon hearing this and ordered Deng Jitong to be invited in.

Upon seeing Master Liang, Deng Jitong started with pleasantries and then handed over the complaint lodged by the Yongning Marquis Mansion. Master Liang tore up the complaint in anger after reading it, accusing the Yongning Marquis Mansion of slander.

He hadn't expected the Yongning Marquis Mansion to be so audacious as to lodge a complaint against him at the Prefecture. Was it the Marquis' wife or the Duke of Tang's idea?

Deng Jitong said with a smile, "The Yongning Marquis Mansion has both eyewitnesses and physical evidence."

"A runaway servant of mine took refuge in that mansion," Master Liang replied calmly, presenting the excuse he had prepared in advance.

Deng Jitong laughed, "Ah, so it's all a misunderstanding. Why don't you clarify this with the Yongning Marquis and offer compensation? I believe the Marquis' wife wouldn't hold a grudge then."

"Compensation?" Master Liang asked in surprise, "We haven't touched a thing in that mansion."

Deng Jitong produced a list and explained, "They claim a rockery in the courtyard collapsed. Those rocks were transported from Mount Putuo, each blessed by high monks of the Putuo Temple. Several fish also died - valuable Red Scales. Not to mention some furniture made of golden Phoebe. The total damages amount to thirty thousand taels of silver."

"Nonsense, thirty thousand taels! How dare Tang Shuyi reach for the sky?" Lady Liang stormed in furiously.

She had come to inquire about Master Liang's investigation into Liu Biqin's case. Upon learning that Master Liang was in a meeting, she waited outside, unintentionally overhearing the conversation.

The mention of a lawsuit from the Yongning Marquis Mansion demanding thirty thousand taels in compensation was the last straw, prompting her to burst in.

Master Liang felt humiliated, disdaining the idea of a woman meddling in men's affairs. But with a guest present, he restrained himself, planning to address it after Deng Jitong's departure.

Sensing the tense atmosphere, Deng Jitong took his leave with a smile, leaving the couple alone. Lady Liang, now unrestrained, scoffed, "Thirty thousand taels? Tang Shuyi is dreaming, she won't get a penny."

"Without compensation, will she withdraw the complaint?" Master Liang too was reluctant to pay, knowing thirty thousand taels was no small sum. Yet, it was evident the Yongning Marquis Mansion came prepared.

"If she doesn't withdraw, we'll appeal to the Imperial Consort, to the Emperor! Why fear when we have a favored consort and a prince in our family?" Lady Liang boasted confidently.

Master Liang, also unwilling to pay, knew compensation would signal submission to the Yongning Marquis Mansion. After some thought, he said, "Let's leave her hanging for a few days."

Chapter 15: Who could it be?

Wu Jingyun's mind was a tumultuous field of wild grasses as she walked home from Meihua Lane. She could no longer distinguish whether her so-called past life was truly a past life or simply a muddle of thoughts.

Or could it be that someone else had been reborn like her?

If so, who could that person be? Liu Biqin? Xiao Yuchen? Or someone else related to the Yongning Marquisate?

It must be someone linked to the Yongning Marquisate; otherwise, Liu Biqin wouldn't have vanished.

Distraught, Wu Jingyun returned home. No sooner had she entered her courtyard than the head maid from her mother's side approached, inviting her to join her mother, Madam Wu, and her father, Wu Guoliang, for lunch.

Wu Jingyun changed her clothes and made her way to Madam Wu's courtyard. As she stepped into the parlor, she saw her father quietly sipping tea, while Madam Wu chatted with him, laughing. Her two sisters, Wu Jingshu and Wu Jingya, were conversing in hushed tones.

Upon seeing her father again after her rebirth, Wu Jingyun felt not a twinge of emotion. In her past life, she had yearned for paternal affection, hoping her father would see through Madam Wu's true nature. But she eventually realized that her father's heart was solely devoted to his career; nothing else mattered to him.

"Father, Mother," Wu Jingyun greeted them with a bow.

Wu Guoliang set down his teacup and asked, "Are you feeling better?"

Smiling, Wu Jingyun replied, "Yes, I am."

"Take more care in the future," Wu Guoliang remarked before returning to his tea, showing no further inclination to converse. Wu Jingyun wasn't hurt by this.

Madam Wu took her hand, looking at her affectionately, "Even though you're better, you should still rest. Don't go out too often. Catching a cold or getting jostled by the crowd is never good."

"You went out?" Wu Guoliang asked, somewhat displeased upon hearing Madam Wu's words.

Wu Jingyun lowered her eyes, concealing the mockery in them, and said, "I've been home for many days and felt a bit stifled. I wanted to take a walk."

"It's been chaotic outside these past few days; don't wander about recklessly," Wu Guoliang advised.

"What happened?" Madam Wu turned and asked him.

Wu Guoliang was impatient with discussing external affairs with women, but Madam Wu, as the mistress of the house, couldn't be kept in the dark about everything. He explained dismissively, "The Liang family smashed up a residence outside the Yongning Marquisate's estate. There's going to be trouble between the two families."

"Good heavens," Madam Wu gasped, shocked. "The Liang family is being too…" audacious.

Wu Jingyun was also astonished. She hadn't expected the news to spread so quickly that even her father was aware.

"With the imperial concubine's favor, the Liang family's actions have been…" Madam Wu expressed her concern, "Jingyun is betrothed to the eldest son of the Yongning Marquisate. Could this…"

"There's no issue," declared Wu Guoliang. "During his life, Marquis Yongning, Xiao Huai, enjoyed the emperor's trust, and since he died in battle, the emperor always has a sense of respect for him."

Madame Wu, puzzled, inquired, "But why has the title of Marquis Yongning still not been..."

Wu Guoliang interrupted her, "There's a lot involved here that you don't need to worry about." Then turning to Wu Jingyun he said, "Although Xiao Yuchen may not be greatly talented, he's capable of maintaining his inheritance. This marriage is beneficial; you should interact more with the lady of Marquis Yongning's estate."

Wu Jingyun clenched the handkerchief tightly, her head bowed in silence. In this life, she was determined not to marry Xiao Yuchen. If exposing Xiao Yuchen's deeds didn't work out, she would find another way to break off the engagement.

"What's the matter?" Wu Guoliang asked, noticing her silence and frowning.

"I understand, Father," Wu Jingyun replied.

For now, all she could do was stall.

Madame Wu, with a smile, drew Wu Jingyun to sit beside her, "Today, the lady from Marquis Yongning's estate sent someone to visit you. You should also pay a visit to their estate in the next few days. Take your two sisters with you; I hear the lady enjoys lively company."

Wu Jingyun offered a smile but did not engage further; she knew exactly what Madame Wu was hinting at. She had long harbored intentions to snatch away her engagement.

Seeing her non-response, Madame Wu's face maintained a smile, but her eyes grew cold.

Soon, dinner was served. Despite each family member's hidden thoughts, the meal was relatively harmonious. After dining, Wu Jingyun returned to her courtyard. Dismissing her maidservant, she sat on the couch, lost in thought.

Once calm, she laughed at her earlier wild speculations. She was indeed reborn; how could it be a delusion? Then, if someone else had also been reborn, who could it be?

After much pondering without any conclusion, she decided to set aside these thoughts for now. The most pressing matter was to break off the engagement with Xiao Yuchen. If exposing him wasn't successful, she'd have to find other reasons to call off the marriage.

In the eyes of many, Xiao Yuchen was handsome and from a good family. Though not greatly talented, he had no bad habits, which made him quite an eligible bachelor among the sons of the elite. He had always been a favored match among the young ladies of the capital.

Therefore, finding a reason to break off the engagement would be challenging.

Thinking of Madame Wu's desire to snatch her engagement, Wu Jingyun felt she might be able to use it to her advantage. However, she needed to be cautious to avoid getting herself tainted in the process.

Marquis Yongning's Estate

The Disciple's Rules are over a thousand words long, and after writing it five times, it amounted to over five thousand words. Xiao Yuchen and his siblings had not finished writing even after the whole afternoon had passed. Having barely eaten at noon, they were now famished.

Tang Shuyi glanced outside at the dimming sky and ordered dinner to be served before heading to the study. The room was already lit, bright and clear. The three children sat properly, diligently writing in large characters.

She curved her lips into a smile. After all, they were still children at heart.

Approaching the desk, she inquired, "Have you finished writing?"

All three looked up. Before Xiao Yuzhen or Xiao Yuming could speak, Xiao Yuzhu began to pout and cry, "Mother~ my hand hurts, it's killing me."

Xiao Yuzhen and Xiao Yuming also started rubbing their wrists.

Tang Shuyi walked over to Xiao Yuzhu, took out a handkerchief, and wiped her tears, "Let's have dinner first, you can finish the rest tomorrow."

The three of them sighed in relief, only to hear Tang Shuyi add, "Go change your clothes, then we'll eat."

The personal attendants of Xiao Yuzhen and Xiao Yuming had already brought their clothes over, so the two went to change. Tang Shuyi took Xiao Yuzhu by the hand into her own bedroom and personally helped her change.

"Judge yourself as you judge others, forgive others as you forgive yourself," Tang Shuyi said as she wiped Xiao Yuzhu's face with the damp cloth. "When dealing with matters, try to see things from the other person's perspective. You want your brothers to dote on you and be accommodating, but have you been tolerant and caring towards them?"

Xiao Yuzhu pouted and remained silent. Tang Shuyi continued, "You know your second brother's temperament. Him tousling your hair is his way of showing affection; he just doesn't know his own strength. Since his intentions are good, you should be forgiving. You can tell him to be gentler."

"I understand," Xiao Yuzhu said softly. "Sometimes my second brother is quite nice to me."

Tang Shuyi smiled, "Yes, both your brothers are very good to you."

"But, should I be forgiving every time someone means well? Xiao Qingyu always ruins my things and says it wasn't on purpose, that she meant well," Xiao Yuzhu said, tilting her head up.

Chapter 16: Your Majesty, I am incapable!

Tang Shuyi pondered who Xiao Qingyu was; she was the fourth young lady from the second branch of the family. For some reason, this girl always seemed to have a grudge against Yuzhu.

Tang Shuyi, who had neither married nor had children in her previous life, wasn't sure how to educate an eight-year-old. But analyzing right from wrong with a child and teaching them how to solve problems when they arise couldn't be wrong, could it?

Moreover, from what she had always read online in her previous life, patience is key in child education. So, Tang Shuyi explained to Xiao Yuzhu earnestly:

"Not all well-intended actions gone wrong deserve forgiveness. Some people claim to mean well, but they harbor ill intentions. Such individuals certainly don't deserve forgiveness; they should be confronted."

"That's exactly what Xiao Qingyu is like. She does it on purpose," Xiao Yuzhu puffed up her cheeks. "Today she dirtied my dress, claiming she was trying to prevent me from falling and accidentally stained it. I saw it all; she did it on purpose."

"What did you do then?" Tang Shuyi inquired.

"I splashed her with ink," Xiao Yuzhu huffed, and then she glanced cautiously at Tang Shuyi, fearing a scolding. Everyone at the school had said she was wrong for splashing ink on Xiao Qingyu.

Tang Shuyi raised an eyebrow, thinking it was a typical move of a little tyrant. As she helped Xiao Yuzhu into her clothes, she remarked:

"If you're bullied, you naturally retaliate. She intentionally soiled your clothes, and you did well to splash her with ink. But you should also point out that she did it on purpose, that she harbored ill will. And warn her, if there's a next time, it won't be as simple as ink."

"Will people stop speaking ill of me then?" Xiao Yuzhu's tone was heavy with grievance. Although Xiao Qingyu also dirtied her clothes, everyone in the school thought she was in the wrong.

"Do you care so much about what others think of you?" Tang Shuyi asked.

Xiao Yuzhu furrowed her brows in thought, "Not really."

"Exactly, you shouldn't care about what others say." Tang Shuyi finished dressing her, took her hand, and as they walked out, she continued:

"You point out her fault not to make others speak well of you, or to justify your actions. It's to clarify the truth of the matter. Right is right, wrong is wrong. As long as you conduct yourself uprightly, you needn't mind the gossip."

Xiao Yuzhu smiled broadly, "I understand. Mother, you're so kind."

Tang Shuyi also smiled as she caressed her daughter's smooth hand.

The mother and daughter entered the dining room where Xiao Yuchen and Xiao Yuming were already seated. After sitting down to eat, Tang Shuyi didn't bring up the afternoon's events. After the meal, the family moved to the parlor, and Tang Shuyi asked the maids to leave, leaving only the family of four.

Xiao Yuchen and Xiao Yuzhu sat properly, while Xiao Yuming lounged in a carefree manner. Tang Shuyi said nothing; she wasn't a rigid person and didn't believe that being well-behaved was all that mattered.

"About today's incident, all three of you were at fault," Tang Shuyi looked at Xiao Yuchen, "As the eldest brother, have you taken up the responsibility to guide your siblings?"

Xiao Yuchen's face showed self-reproach, "I will guide and supervise them more from now on."

"Yes, leading by example is most important," Tang Shuyi said.

If you have faults of your own, better not to preach to others.

"Yes, Mother," Xiao Yuchen also knew he was too preoccupied to guide his siblings.

Tang Shuyi then turned to Xiao Yuming, "Do you realize your mistake?"

Xiao Yuming's face showed a carefree indifference, "I know my mistake, I won't pat my sister's head anymore."

Tang Shuyi, observing his nonchalant expression, suddenly realized a problem. Xiao Yuming, at fourteen, was in his rebellious phase. Kids his age feel like adults and want to make their own decisions. The last thing they want is parental discipline.

Such a headache!

After a moment of silence, Tang Shuyi still said, "Affectionate gestures among siblings, especially when one is still young, are natural. However, it was wrong of you to push and even think about hitting her. No matter how angry you are, you shouldn't resort to that."

"I understand," Xiao Yuming replied earnestly, a hint of genuine remorse in his voice. He realized his mistake earlier. In fact, at that moment, he didn't intend to push his sister; it was just a reflex from his fighting habits. And the raised hand later was merely to scare her.

"To acknowledge and correct one's mistakes is the best way forward," Tang Shuyi said, not elaborating further. For the moment, she hadn't quite figured out how to handle her rebellious second son.

"I've already told you," Tang Shuyi turned to Xiao Yuzhu, "relationships between people are reciprocal. Just as your brothers are kind to you, you should be kind to them. You shouldn't hoard the good things to yourself; think of sharing them."

Xiao Yuzhu nodded obediently, "I understand."

Tang Shuyi didn't dwell on moralizing any longer. She gestured for them to go rest, adding that they should hand in their 'Disciple's Rules' the next day for inspection. After Xiao Yuxin and Xiao Yuming left, Xiao Yuzhu threw herself into Tang Shuyi's arms, insisting on sleeping with her.

Tang Shuyi held her daughter with a smile, agreeing and instructing the maids to prepare accordingly. Mother and daughter whispered together, Xiao Yuzhu chattering about her day at school, while Tang Shuyi listened with a smile, offering few comments.

Lecturing children with too many morals isn't always beneficial.

Shortly after, Cuixun came to announce the bath was ready. Tang Shuyi took Xiao Yuzhu for their bath, then both retired to bed. Children fall asleep quickly, and it wasn't long before Xiao Yuzhu was sound asleep.

Tang Shuyi lay beside her, gazing at her peacefully sleeping daughter, her face the epitome of delicate charm. She now understood a friend's words from her past life: children are angels when quiet and devils when riled.

With a smile, she too closed her eyes to sleep.

The Hou Mansion of Yongning fell silent, but the night was anything but tranquil, evident from the fierce strife in the court the following day.

The Great Qian Dynasty held court every ten days, and today was the day. The ministers had been waiting outside the Wumen since the hour of Yin, entering the Qianqing Palace for the morning assembly at the hour of Mao. With ten days' worth of issues to present, the assembly lasted nearly two hours before nearing its conclusion.

Many were famished, their bellies stuck to their backs, anticipating the session's end when the censor, Li Yuanzhong, suddenly stepped forward, loudly impeaching Liang Jian'an for allowing his servant to brazenly intrude on private residences.

As he started, several other officials joined in impeaching Liang Jian'an for various offenses, including oppressing the orphan of a loyal martyr, allowing his servants to commit violence, abducting young girls, and more. Some also accused the Second Prince of condoning his maternal family's brutality.

Naturally, there were those who defended the Second Prince and Liang Jian'an, resulting in a vehement exchange, stirring a minor climax in the court.

Amidst the escalating commotion, the Duke of Tang, with robes billowing, knelt with both knees on the ground and cried out to the Emperor before collapsing in sobs.

The court fell silent instantly, save for the mournful weeping of the Duke of Tang. It was heart-wrenching to witness a man in his sixties, kneeling and wailing in despair.

The Emperor rose from his throne, approaching and bending to assist the Duke of Tang, "My loyal subject, speak your heart, there's no need for such distress."

The Duke of Tang remained kneeling, lifting his tear-streaked face, "Your Majesty, after having five sons, I was blessed with a daughter, cherished and protected like a precious gem. Even a sneeze from her would fill me with worry.

Yet, my only daughter has faced a harsh fate, widowed in her prime, struggling to raise three children. The thought alone rends my heart. And now, they, mother and children alike, are subjected to such cruelty. Your Majesty, I am powerless, failing to protect my own..."

Duke Tang collapsed to the ground once more, his cries of anguish filling the air.

Chapter 17: I am Not the Equal of My Father, the Emperor

Duke Tang was a compatriot of the late emperor in founding the dynasty, later being ennobled as the Duke. Unlike the elder of Yongning, who hailed from humble rural beginnings, the Tang family was a distinguished and powerful clan in the capital even during the previous dynasty. Thus, their roots in the capital were deep and extensive.

However, the Tang family knew the wisdom of concealing their sharpness. Duke Tang, a veteran statesman of two reigns, with three of his five sons holding key positions in the government, refrained from forming cliques or meddling in affairs. In fact, if it weren't for certain matters, he would have long retired to a life of seclusion.

But today, his sudden weeping and kneeling sent the court officials into a whirl of speculation. The Emperor, meanwhile, was beset with a headache and growing resentment towards the Liang family.

He stooped once more to help Duke Tang to his feet, who now stood with tears streaming down his face. The Emperor, taking his hand, spoke gently, "My loyal subject, the contributions you and the two Lords of Yongning have made to our Great Qian Dynasty are not forgotten by me, nor by the people of the entire dynasty. I will not let the descendants of a loyal subject suffer injustice."

Having spoken, the Emperor returned to his throne. "Unless there is anything else, this court is adjourned."

The Emperor, assisted by eunuchs, departed, while Duke Tang, drying his tears, was escorted out of the Qianqing Palace by his two sons. Several officials approached, attempting to engage him in conversation, but Duke Tang waved them off, unwilling to elaborate further.

Though it seemed a trifling matter, it left the ministers restless, all awaiting the Emperor's response to the situation.

Back in the Imperial Study, the Emperor, seething with anger, flung the teacup on the desk to the floor with great force. The eunuchs and maids immediately knelt.

"Everyone out," the Emperor commanded coldly, taking his seat behind the desk.

The eunuchs and maids of the Imperial Study tiptoed out, quaking in fear, leaving only the Chief Eunuch, Jiao Kangsheng. He placed a cup of tea beside the Emperor, whispering, "Your Majesty, please calm your anger."

The Emperor, eyes closed, leaned back in his chair, his face creased with deeper lines. He muttered as if to himself, "Duke Tang accuses me of mistreating the widow and orphans of the Yongning household. He resents me for not decreeing that the heir of Yongning inherit his title."

Jiao Kangsheng stood silently to the side, knowing the Emperor needed to vent.

"I have never intended to revoke the title of the Marquis of Yongning, but without the tiger tally found, and the Marquis's influence still strong in the military, his heir cannot inherit the title." The Emperor's voice rose suddenly, "Summon Jingming."

The Second Prince was named Li Jingming.

Jiao Kangsheng answered with an affirmative and hurried out of the Imperial Study, only to find the Second Prince standing outside. He quickly informed him, "Your Highness, the Emperor summons you."

The Second Prince grunted in acknowledgment and strode into the Imperial Study. He had been present at the morning court and had been waiting outside the study since. Liang Erye had explained to him the reason for invading the Yongning household's residence in Plum Alley.

He felt that although Liang Erye's actions were brazen, they were not wrong. Had he received information about Xiao Yuchen harboring the daughter of a criminal, he too would have investigated.

As the Second Prince entered the study and was about to greet his father, a teacup shattered at his feet. He promptly knelt, "Your Majesty, your son has something to report."

"Do you have anything else to say?" The Emperor stood up and, pointing at the Second Prince, asked indignantly, "The Liang family, newly rich and arrogant, I have turned a blind eye for the sake of your mother and you. But look at what they have become! In the capital, which family doesn't have deeper roots than theirs? Li Jingming, you are not the Emperor yet."

"Father Emperor." The Second Prince prostrated himself in trepidation, "Your son has never thought..."

"You really never thought about it?" The Emperor asked in a flat tone, but the Second Prince was drenched in cold sweat.

How could he answer this question? To say he never thought about becoming the Emperor would imply he lacked ambition, but a prince without ambition cannot be an emperor. To admit he had thought about it was even worse. The Father Emperor would suspect he was plotting to usurp the throne.

"Father Emperor, although I had some disagreements with the Marquis of Yongning in the past, he is now deceased, and there is no need for me to persistently target his household. This time… this time my uncle went to inspect the Marquis of Yongning's residence for a reason."

The Second Prince chose not to directly answer the Emperor's question.

"What reason?" The Emperor asked with a cold snort.

"Father Emperor," the Second Prince kneeled and shuffled forward a few steps, "My uncle received a letter claiming that the heir to the Marquis of Yongning was harboring the criminal Liu Yushan's daughter, hiding her in the Plum Blossom Alley."

After hearing this, the Emperor frowned and then raised his hand for the Second Prince to stand, "Stand up first."

The Second Prince rose from the ground, standing by the desk, and heard the Emperor ask, "Was the person found?"

The Second Prince hung his head in silence.

The Emperor let out a cold laugh, "If you had found the person, Duke Tang, that old fox, wouldn't be kneeling and weeping in the imperial court."

"By the time my uncle and his men arrived, there was no one there. However, the courtyard was well-maintained, clearly someone had been living there." The Second Prince was also infuriated inside, wondering why there was no one there.

The Emperor looked down at the memorials and after a moment of silence asked, "Can any evidence be found?"

"None so far. The Marquis of Yongning's household has cleaned up very thoroughly." The Second Prince felt that it must have been Duke Tang who cleaned up after them; the Marquess of Yongning didn't have the capability, and even less so the heir, Xiao Yuxin.

The Emperor huffed again, "If you are to do something, make sure it's done with certainty, otherwise don't do it at all."

"Your son understands." The Second Prince clenched his fist. It wasn't that he was being petty and fixated on the Marquis of Yongning's household, but he had never won in his confrontations with Xiao Huai. The Marquis of Yongning's household had almost become an obsession for him.

"Send Liang Jian'an to the Marquis of Yongning's household to apologize." The Emperor looked at the Second Prince with disappointment in his eyes, "You can at least manage such a simple task, right?"

"Yes," the Second Prince quickly replied, "Your son will personally oversee my uncle's apology at the Marquis of Yongning's household."

The Emperor waved his hand impatiently, signaling the Second Prince to leave. Then, leaning back in his chair, he muttered wearily, "I am not like my father; my father had several outstanding sons."

Chief Eunuch Jiao Kangsheng kept his head down, feigning invisibility, only to hear the Emperor continue, "My sixth brother was always Father's favorite. I remember when he was in his teens, he could outwit several cunning old foxes, leaving them speechless. In truth, the bond between my brother and me... runs deep."

Jiao Kangsheng continued his act of invisibility, while the Emperor, with eyes closed, leaned against the back of his chair, seemingly lost in reminiscence. After a while, he spoke again, "How has the Imperial Dowager been recently?"

In a soft voice, Jiao Kangsheng replied, "The Imperial Dowager's routine and diet have been well, but she often finds herself missing the Prince."

"The tribute of milk oranges from Zhinan should be arriving soon, right?" the Emperor inquired.

Jiao Kangsheng responded, "They should indeed arrive within these few days."

The Emperor hummed in acknowledgment, "Once they arrive, make sure to send some extra to the Imperial Dowager."

In a low voice, Jiao Kangsheng affirmed his understanding.

Chapter 18: Surely He Can't Remain a Profligate Heir Forever?

The Second Prince stepped out of the Imperial Study, wiping the sweat from his forehead as he hastened towards Liang Gui Fei's Ninghe Palace. Deep into autumn, and yet he was sweating profusely from his time in the Imperial Study. The Emperor's thoughts were becoming increasingly inscrutable.

Upon reaching the entrance of Ninghe Palace, Liang Gui Fei's personal maid was standing at the gates. Spotting him, she hastily bowed, "Second Prince, Her Highness has been awaiting you inside."

The Second Prince strode quickly inside, desperate to have someone help him analyze what he should do next. His recent encounter in the Imperial Study left him sensing the Emperor's suspicions towards him.

Entering the main hall of Ninghe Palace, he immediately called out, "Mother Consort!"

Liang Gui Fei sat in the center of the main hall, radiant and commanding. She gestured for the maids and eunuchs to leave, then, parting her red lips, spoke in a calm tone, "I've heard about the happenings at court today."

The Second Prince hurriedly sat beside Liang Gui Fei, nearly frantic, yet his mother consort appeared utterly unflustered. He wondered whether to admire her composure or to lament his own impatience.

Once seated, he said, "Just now, this son was at the Imperial Study, where Father Emperor reprimanded me."

The Imperial Noble Consort maintained a demeanor of having everything under control as she asked, "What exactly did the Emperor say to you?"

The Second Prince recounted his experience in the Imperial Study and added, "Mother Consort, this son is perplexed about Father Emperor's stance towards the Yongning Marquis's household."

On one hand, it seemed the Emperor favored the Yongning Marquis's household. Yet, it had been so long since the Marquis's death, and the Emperor had not decreed for the Marquis's son to inherit the title. On the other hand, judging by his attitude today, it didn't seem like he held any aversion towards them.

At this point, Liang Gui Fei let out a cold laugh, "Your father, the Emperor, wants to commit foul deeds while still posing as a sage ruler. The Yongning Marquis died in battle, a sacrifice for the nation, yet he refrains from allowing the Marquis's son to succeed the title. Duke Tang and some of the Marquis's subordinates have long harbored discontent over this. Now, your uncle brazenly stormed the Yongning Marquis's residence, giving others an excuse to criticize, leaving your father the Emperor disgraced."

"Your uncle has indeed been too audacious in his actions these past few years. If he wanted to investigate whether Xiao Yuchen was harboring a traitor's daughter, he could have done so discreetly. Instead, he chose to brazenly invade the residence in broad daylight, making a spectacle."

The Second Prince harbored many grievances against the Liang family. They lacked a solid foundation and offered him little benefit, unlike the Crown Prince who had a Grand Tutor as a grandfather.

Empress Liang herself was dissatisfied with her own family, but at this moment, she had to speak in their favor, lest her son grow even more resentful. She said, "Although your uncle has been impulsive in his actions, he has always had your best interests at heart. I'll speak to him about this."

What could the Second Prince do? He had no control over his birth, and no matter how much he envied the Crown Prince for having a great grandfather, he couldn't simply take him for his own.

Empress Liang continued, "What's crucial now is to not let the Duke of Tang latch onto this incident. Go immediately and oversee your uncle's apology to the Marquis of Yongning's residence, and instruct him to maintain a respectful demeanor."

"I understand, Mother," the Second Prince replied, rising and bowing before making his way out. Empress Liang watched his retreating figure with a sigh; a troublesome maternal family was a source of headache for her too.

…

Marquis of Yongning's Residence

After breakfast, Xiao Yuming headed to the academy, and Xiao Yuzhu to the family school. Xiao Yuxin, having graduated from the academy, went to his own study to read.

Tang Shuyi stood in the corridor, watching the backs of her three children, and couldn't help but feel that being a parent was truly challenging. There were concerns about food, clothing, housing, and transportation, their growth and development, and eventually, their marriages and offspring...

At this moment, she was pondering Xiao Yuxin's imperial examinations, as well as Xiao Yuming's future. Xiao Yuxin was decent in his studies and naturally would pursue the path of the imperial examinations. However, his rigid approach to learning was likely due to his limited exposure to worldly affairs and his sole focus on books.

She planned to expose Xiao Yuxin more to internal and external family affairs, believing that experiencing more would broaden his horizons.

But Xiao Yuming was poor in his studies, his martial skills were mediocre, and he knew nothing of military strategy. Surely, he couldn't spend his life as a wasteful and privileged scion.

Having assumed this body and the role of mother to three children, Tang Shuyi felt compelled to shoulder the corresponding responsibilities. She couldn't stand by and watch a vibrant young man continue on a path of decline. She needed to carefully consider how to reform her wayward second son.

Since Xiao Yuming lacked patience for study, perhaps martial training could be a viable path for him.

As Tang Shuyi's mind raced with these thoughts, a young maid came running towards her, curtsied, and said, "Madam, there's a visitor from the Duke of Tang's residence asking to see you."

Tang Shuyi was taken aback. She had considered visiting the Duke of Tang's residence these past few days, knowing that it was her most substantial support at present. But the Duke was known for his cunning, and his sons held high positions. She feared exposing her true identity in their presence.

Yet, a meeting was inevitable, so she instructed the servant to invite the visitor from the Duke of Tang's residence inside.

Soon after, a tall middle-aged man entered. Upon seeing her, he bowed respectfully and said, "Madam, the Duke requests your presence at the residence."

Tang Shuyi recognized him after a moment; he was the second steward of the Duke of Tang's residence, Zhu Xingxue.

"I'll head there now," she replied.

Zhu Xingxue once again bowed to Tang Shuyi, saying, "Then I shall return to the Duke's residence first and report to His Grace."

Tang Shuyi waved her hand, dismissing him, then went back to her room to change clothes before heading out.

The Duke's residence wasn't far from the Marquis of Yongning's estate. A quarter of an hour's carriage ride brought her there. Stepping down from the carriage, she saw a man in his thirties or forties, tall and with an elegant scholarly air, coming out from a side door of the Duke's residence, accompanied by the estate's chief steward, Zhu Xingbang.

Their eyes met as the man turned his head. Both were momentarily startled, then nodded in acknowledgment. Tang Shuyi proceeded towards the Duke's residence, while the man departed in his carriage.

The chief steward, Zhu Xingbang, watched the carriage disappear into the distance before hurrying to catch up with Tang Shuyi, slightly bowing as he said, "Madam, His Grace is waiting for you in the study."

Tang Shuyi hummed in response, then asked, "Who was that just now?"

"Minister Qi Liangsheng of the Ministry of Revenue," the chief steward explained, recalling the past discord between the Marquis of Yongning and Minister Qi, "In truth, there is no deep-seated enmity between the Marquis and Minister Qi, merely some minor grievances from their youth."

Tang Shuyi rifled through her memories; the impression of Qi Liangsheng wasn't particularly strong, so she didn't dwell on it.

As they conversed, they arrived at the Duke's study. The chief steward opened the door for her and then left. Tang Shuyi entered to find the Duke engrossed in a game of chess by himself.

The man in his sixties or seventies, his hair mostly grey, his face lined with wrinkles. Yet he exuded a calm, scholarly demeanor and was full of vitality. One could easily imagine his striking appearance in his youth.

"Father," Tang Shuyi approached and sat across from him. The Duke glanced up at her and said, "Join me for a game."

"Certainly," Tang Shuyi replied, resetting the chess pieces and starting a new game.

"About this morning's court session..."

The Duke recounted the events of the morning court session, and Tang Shuyi's hand, holding a chess piece, paused for a long while. She had pondered at length about the matter of Xiao Yuchen hiding the Liubi Qin, considering almost all potential consequences, but had not anticipated it escalating to the imperial court.

Her mindset hadn't fully transitioned yet; she hadn't fully integrated herself into this society.

The Great Qian Dynasty was an ancient feudal society, and above all, an imperial one.

Chapter 19: Father

Tang Shuyi hadn't expected the matter to escalate to the imperial court, but she wasn't one to shy away from trouble. Now that things had escalated, she was ready to face them head-on.

Placing her chess piece on the board, she blocked the Duke's intended offensive move. The Duke picked up another piece, looking up at his daughter opposite him. She still bore the same visage, yet he sensed something different about her.

"You handled Yuchen's matter very well, methodically and decisively," the Duke commented, his gaze scrutinizing yet appreciative, "You weren't like this before in your dealings."

Tang Shuyi's heart tightened, but she didn't show it on her face. She looked squarely into Tang Guogong's eyes and said, "Some things become clear after giving them thought, and besides, when pushed to the brink, one has no choice but to act."

Her words filled Tang Guogong with a pang of heartache. He had doted on his daughter since she was a child, and even in choosing her husband, he had picked the best in every aspect, hoping for her lifetime of smooth sailing and happiness. Yet, he never imagined that, after all the careful selection, her husband would have such a short life.

He lifted his aged hand and patted his daughter's shoulder, "It's good that you've come to understand. To stand strong in this world, one must be self-reliant. I won't be able to protect you for many more years, and your brothers have their own families now, they can't always put you first. With Zian gone and your three children still young, you must stand firm."

Zian was Xiao Huai's courtesy name.

Tang Shuyi looked at the white hair and the wrinkles on Tang Guogong's face, feeling a surge of emotion inside her. Here was a father who truly cared for his children. She replied respectfully with a smile, "I understand, don't worry."

Tang Guogong's face showed a mixture of relief and affection, "Though I say this, as long as I live, I won't let anyone bully you. And even when I'm gone, your brothers will take care of you."

Tang Shuyi felt a twinge in her nose. She was reminded of her grandparents in her previous life, who also promised to protect her as long as they were alive.

Wiping the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief, she said, "I understand. You don't need to worry about me constantly; I can manage the affairs of the Marquis's mansion."

Tang Guogong felt reassured once again. The two played a few moves in silence before he spoke again, "The Emperor, regardless of what he does in secret, will always present himself as a wise ruler. As long as you and the three children avoid major mistakes, it's only a matter of time before Yuchen inherits the title. Don't rush."

Tang Shuyi pursed her lips and responded, "I understand, don't worry."

However, in the book she read, although the title of Marquis of Yongning was not revoked, the one who inherited it was not Xiao Yuchen. Nobody in the capital could have foreseen such a twist in the Marquis's household.

But now, she was the Marquise of Yongning. If anyone wanted to snatch the title of Marquis from her, they would have to see if they were capable enough.

Tang Guogong let out a heavy sigh, "The Emperor has been increasingly autocratic over the years, and his princes are mediocre. There will be chaos!"

Tang Shuyi placed a chess piece on the board, then looked up earnestly at Tang Guogong and said, "It doesn't matter who becomes the Emperor, but the Second Prince absolutely cannot."

The Second Prince and the Liang family held grudges against them. If the Second Prince became the Emperor, there would be no good days ahead for them.

Tang Guogong naturally understood this reasoning. He smiled and said, "Don't worry, he doesn't stand a chance."

Tang Shuyi smiled in return. Indeed, in the novel, it wasn't the Second Prince who became the Emperor, but the eldest. However, a novel was just a novel, and reality was reality; one couldn't rely entirely on the plot of a book.

She would take it one step at a time.

After having lunch at Tang Guogong's residence, Tang Shuyi returned home. Just as she sat down, the steward came to report that the Liang family had sent an invitation card. The Second Master Liang, Old Madam Liang, and the Second Madam Liang wished to visit the next morning.

Holding the exquisite invitation card, Tang Shuyi pondered over the Liang family's intentions. The two families had fallen out, and the conflict had escalated to the imperial court. What was the purpose of the Liang family's visit now—to stir up more trouble, or to seek peace?

Given the modus operandi of the Liang family, had they been looking for trouble, they wouldn't have sent a formal visiting card before arriving; they would have barged in directly. It seems more likely they're seeking peace. However, this truce probably isn't sincere, likely prompted by the emperor or the imperial concubine.

After all, the matter has escalated to the imperial court, and since the Liang family hasn't found any leverage against them, with Duke Tang making a scene at the court, the emperor will surely seek to placate them.

Understanding the crux of the matter, Tang Shuyi instructed the butler, "Tell the messenger from the Liang family that we will welcome them with open arms tomorrow."

After receiving her instructions, the butler bowed and turned to leave, only to hear her add, "Keep a close watch on the Liang household as before."

"Yes," the butler replied respectfully before departing. Tang Shuyi reclined on the brocaded couch, closing her eyes to rest.

Although the incident seems to have passed, it isn't truly over as long as Liu Biqin and Pan Shan remain in the capital. Now, they can only wait for the Liang family to lower their guard and send them away.

Sending Pan Shan away is feasible, but Liu Biqin is the real challenge. She has a six-month promise with the lovestruck eldest son. Should they really wait six months? Could problems arise during this period?

With this thought, she turned to Cu Yun beside her and said, "Go tell Steward Zhao to ensure the staff at Xi Shan Villa keep a close eye on Liu Biqin. The moment she makes a move, they must report immediately."

"Understood."

Cu Yun stood up and left, and Cu Zhu came over with a pot of hot tea, pouring it into a celadon cup while saying, "I've brewed some ginseng tea for you. Please give it a taste."

Tang Shuyi sat up to receive it, her gaze falling upon the pale yellow tea in the celadon cup, steaming gently. It was clean and elegantly pale, a beautiful sight indeed.

She brought the cup to her lips and took a delicate sip. The tea, fragrant and subtly sweet, warmed her heart and soul. After finishing her tea, Tang Shuyi handed the cup back to Cu Zhu, asking, "How is this tea made?"

Seeing her approval, Cu Zhu poured her another cup before explaining, "You always found the ginseng tea too bitter. When Doctor Hu came to check your pulse last time, I asked him how to make it less bitter. He told me to add longan and goji berries and boil it for a little over a quarter of an hour. He also mentioned that this tea nourishes the spleen, benefits the lungs, and calms the mind, which is very good for your health."

After hearing her words, Tang Shuyi felt comforted. Cu Zhu and Cu Yun were not only loyal but also meticulous in their duties. Such employees deserved rewards, though she needed to find the right moment and reason.

She made a mental note of this matter.

Chapter 20: When Naughty Children Behave, They Can Be Quite Endearing

With nothing pressing that afternoon, Tang Shuyi enjoyed a brief respite, chatting and laughing with Cu Zhu and Cu Yun until the three naughty children arrived, having been punished to copy the Standards for Students.

Tang Shuyi sat on the brocaded couch, first examining Xiao Yuzhu's work, clearly showing three different handwriting styles over five copies of the Standards for Students. Instead of scolding, she looked at her and said, "Remember what I always say, relationships are reciprocal. Your brothers dote on you, and you should treat them well in return, understand?"

Xiao Yuzhu nodded obediently, "I understand, mother."

Tang Shuyi hummed in approval, set Xiao Yuzhu's work aside, and then examined Xiao Yuming's. It's said that handwriting reflects one's character, and indeed it does. Xiao Yuming's impatient nature was evident in his slightly erratic writing.

Considering his restless nature, the fact that he managed to write the "Disciple's Rules" five times in an orderly manner is commendable. Therefore, Tang Shuyi did not criticize his poor handwriting but instead said, "Yuming, your writing has improved significantly. Keep up the good work."

Tang Shuyi had never raised children, but she had managed employees and knew that constant criticism could erode their confidence. Presumably, the same principle applied to educating children.

Xiaoyu Ming, having never received praise before, was caught off guard by Tang Shuyi's unexpected compliment. He awkwardly scratched his head, clearly embarrassed. Tang Shuyi couldn't help but smile with her eyes curved in amusement.

Setting aside Xiaoyu Ming's work, she picked up the "Disciple's Rules" written by Xiaoyu Chen. His script was strong and fluid, clearly the result of diligent effort.

Tang Shuyi examined each page carefully before commenting, "Excellent. As the eldest, you should lead by example. You've done well in caring for and guiding your younger siblings."

Xiaoyu Chen straightened up, responding earnestly, "I understand. I will continue to be a good role model for my younger siblings."

His attempt to appear grown-up amused Tang Shuyi. She stacked the three sets of "Disciple's Rules" and told them, "Now, recite it ten times."

The siblings exchanged awkward glances, having been punished by their tutor to write but never to recite. Xiaoyu Chen cleared his throat stiffly and asked, "Do we recite it here?"

Tang Shuyi nodded, "Yes, right here. All three of you, together. Begin."

They looked at each other hesitantly, unsure of how to start. Finding the situation amusing, Tang Shuyi began, "The Disciple's Rules, the sage's teachings. Begin with filial piety and brotherly respect… Start now."

Startled again, Xiaoyu Chen began to recite, with Xiaoyu Ming and Xiaoyu Zhu quickly joining in.

"The Disciple's Rules, the sage's teachings. Start with filial piety and brotherly respect, then move on to cautious trust. Embrace all with love and draw close to the benevolent. If there's surplus energy, devote it to literature..."

Standing straight, the trio recited in unison, but soon they began to sway their heads in identical arcs. Tang Shuyi found it amusing, managing to suppress her laughter initially, but eventually, she had to excuse herself to the inner room to laugh freely.

Even the unruliest children can be quite endearing when they're well-behaved.

After about a quarter of an hour, they finished reciting the "Disciple's Rules" ten times, all parched and out of breath. Cui Zhu and Cui Yun had already prepared tea for them. Dispensing with formalities, they gulped down the tea voraciously, causing Tang Shuyi to laugh again as she watched.

Once they finished their tea, Tang Shuyi addressed them, "My intention wasn't to punish you, but to instill in you the importance of brotherly harmony and the principle that one's actions reflect on the whole family."

"We understand," the siblings replied in unison.

Seeing their obedient demeanor, Tang Shuyi suddenly felt that having three children wasn't so bad.

The family of four enjoyed a harmonious dinner. Afterwards, Tang Shuyi called Xiaoyu Chen to the study and told him about the events that transpired at the morning court. Xiaoyu Chen turned pale as he listened, unable to believe that the situation had escalated to such a degree.

"The words I spoke to you in the ancestral hall were not meant to alarm you unduly," Tang Shuyi said, looking at Xiaoyu Chen.

"Son... I understand," Xiao Yuchen stammered, his hands trembling with retrospective fear.

Tang Shuyi placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, applying a gentle pressure as she advised, "From now on, you must be cautious and deliberate in your actions, thinking three, even ten steps ahead. When your father was alive, his authority kept certain people in check. But now, our family holds a title without real power, teetering on the brink of collapse.

"We can rely on your maternal grandfather for a day, a year, but can we depend on him for a lifetime? Besides, power held by others can never provide the security of power in our own hands."

"Mother..." Xiao Yuchen's emotions were a tumultuous mix, and though he wished to speak, not a single word would come out.

Tang Shuyi patted his shoulder again, her voice laden with earnestness, "Everyone makes mistakes; the key is to learn from them and make amends. Yuchen, as the eldest son, you shoulder the responsibility of continuing the prosperity of the Marquis of Yongning's household. But don't feel overwhelmed; your siblings and I will strive alongside you."

Tears streamed down Xiao Yuchen's face, unable to be held back any longer. Self-reproach, guilt, fear, and helplessness had filled him these past days, nearly leading him to self-doubt. The weight of his responsibility as the heir felt almost suffocating.

For seventeen years, he had never faced days as challenging as these. Now, his mother's assurance that she and his siblings would work with him imbued him with both emotion and newfound strength.

"Mother, I will work hard," Xiao Yuchen said through his tears, his resolve clear.

Tang Shuyi took a handkerchief and gently wiped his tears, speaking softly, "Good, we will work hard together."

Xiao Yuchen nodded emphatically.

Tang Shuyi stood up to pour him a cup of tea, then added, "The Liang family sent us an invitation today. Tomorrow, Liang Jian'an, Old Madam Liang, and the Second Madam Liang will pay us a visit."

"What... what for?" Xiao Yuchen's mind was still clouded by the emotions of their prior conversation.

Tang Shuyi probed, "What do you think their intentions are? Reflect on it carefully."

Xiao Yuchen took a deep breath to stabilize his emotions, then, with furrowed brows, speculated after a moment, "They seek reconciliation."

Tang Shuyi offered an approving look and said, "That's what I believe as well. Tomorrow, you will receive Liang Jian'an in the front courtyard, and I will attend to Old Madam Liang and the Second Madam Liang. Go back and contemplate how you should handle Liang Jian'an."

Xiao Yuchen nodded solemnly, "I will give it thorough thought."

Tang Shuyi smiled with relief, "Good, think it over carefully."

With that, Tang Shuyi rose, and mother and son exited the study together. Xiao Yuming had already left, and Xiao Yuzhu was sitting next to Cui Zhu, watching her knit. Upon seeing Tang Shuyi, Xiao Yuzhu approached and said, "Mother, I want to sleep with you tonight."

Tang Shuyi stroked her head, "Alright."