26
After finishing the meal, lady Tang sat in the hall for a little while, politely engaging in a short talk. Afterward, she tactfully rose up and asked to retire. She had figured out that his Highness would rest in Danruo Courtyard today. No matter how unwilling she was, she could only endure. Instead of hanging there and attract disdain, she would rather leave early and make his Highness bear in mind a little bit of her good.
Sure enough. Zhong Zheng Lin turned his head to look at Tang'shi and addressed her for the first time, apart from telling her to rise since she has entered, "You must be tired today. Go back sooner to rest." Afterward, he said no more. Lady Tang immediately complied and, taking along her maidservants, returned back.
Seeing Tang Yi Ru leaving, Mu Xi Yao immediately dismissed her politeness and returned to her lively self.
"There's no need to take others into consideration." Zhong Zheng Lin was more fond of her various small tempers.
"Qie is earning face for you1, your Highness." Mu Xi Yao complained with a pout. A smile engaged in Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes. This cunning girl!
"Your Highness, is Tang shufei as good looking as qie?" After asking such a question, she deliberately leaned her face closer so that Zhong Zheng Lin could take a careful look.
Zhong Zheng Lin pinched her face. He has never met someone as brazen as her. One could clearly see a smugness and anticipation for the praise on her little face. He complied to her wish and began to seriously look her over.
"She cannot compare to you." As expected. Mu Xi Yao's face was full of smiles. Her calf that hung from the chair swayed back and forth.
Zhong Zheng Lin looked at the embroidered shoes on her feet that swayed back and forth. The light reflected on the embroidery dazzled him till his eyes felt hot. Unconsciously, he has recalled that smooth and tender calf. His body started to burn a little.
"Your Highness, would you like to take a stroll in the garden together with qie, to aid digestion?" Though Mu Xi Yao's words were asking for his opinion, her little hand has already reached for the corner of Zhong Zheng Lin's sleeve, softly pulling at it.
Zhong Zheng Lin directly caught her little hand and held it in his own. He tidied the hair at Mu Xi Yao's ear, "Bamboo ink forest or koi pond?"
Mu Xi Yao leaned her head to the side and thought for a while, "Bamboo ink forest. Didn't they all say 'arriving in the evening to listen to the sound of the wind?' "
Zhong Zheng Lin slightly nodded and then took the person to the forest.
—–
After arriving to the bamboo forest, Mu Xi Yao let go of Zhong Zheng Lin's hand and happily went to stroll in the east and take a look in the west2, having great fun.
Zhong Zheng Lin put his hands behind the back and followed her. Looking at the maiden's back that wandered here and there, he took languid steps to match her pace. A faint content overflowed his heart. Imposing and solemn, handsome and tall sixth Highness surprisingly displayed a bit of gentleness at the bamboo forest during the summer dusk.
Abruptly, Mu Xi Yao recalled a matter. She turned back to ask, "Your Highness, about tomorrow's paying respect. All the womenfolk in the residence have to come?"
Mu Xi Yao treated all Zhong Zheng Lin's other women equally. They were classed as "colleagues". If their ranks could not compare to hers then it was naturally superior-subordinate relationship where seniority had to be abided. If they had ranks above hers then she should just rely on the unwritten rule of the workplace, going to Zhong Zheng Lin to have him back her up.
"Do you want to see them?" Based on this woman's laziness, would she mention on her own accord to see those other women?
"During the day, your Highness is busy with official matters, mostly staying out of the courtyard. Qie would be bored. If qie gets to know them, qie can visit them." At the present, those women's foundation was still too shallow. They still needed princess consort to enter the residence to be able to make a fuss.
"Tomorrow bendian will be indisposed, arrange it to the day after." Zhong Zheng Lin decided, without giving it any thought. As for why he was indisposed, the little woman knew.
"Uhm." Mu Xi Yao gleefully run back to hug Zhong Zheng Lin's arm and asked him about one thing.
"Your Highness, can you send someone to pick qie's chubby rabbits? Qie has raised very well the rabbits your Highness has given to qie. They are both chubby and adorable. And also that rabbit lantern at home. Qie wants them too." Mu Xi Yao has finally recollected the rabbits she had been feeding every morning. But both of them were still kept in Yu House.
"Have Zhao momo to attend to this matter. Danruo Courtyard does have a pet house." Zhong Zheng Lin patted her little head as if appeasing a naughty little girl.
Hearing that there was a customized pet house, Mu Xi Yao was amused.
Zhong Zheng Lin was truly thoughtful. She had to encourage this trait of his. She indicated to him to bow his head. When the man lowered his body, she immediately embraced his neck and kissed him on both sides of his cheeks.
Gaining such a benefit, how could Zhong Zheng Lin let her go? Seizing this opportunity, he hugged the person and leaned his forehead against hers, their eyes meeting.
"Gaining such a benefit, how do you plan to thank bendian?" A fire flickered inside his eyes.
Mu Xi Yao thought with a difficulty and then timidly probed, "Lifelong devotion. Is it enough?"
Zhong Zheng Lin was so shocked by her words that his breath stopped for a moment. This little woman was indeed more and more audacious, daring to say anything. He embraced the person and patted her lush and soft bottom twice, "Shameless." Since his hands were reluctant to leave the tenderness, he started to lightly knead them.
"There's more shamelessness coming." Mu Xi Yao blocked Zhong Zheng Lin's lips by kissing him, licking and nipping them slowly.
When Zhong Zheng Lin recovered, his tongue promptly took over, feverishly twining with hers. His big hands also began to explore her chest. Mu Xi Yao was kissed until she was breathless. She whined through her tiny nose and protested. Her little hands clutched Zhong Zheng Lin's lapels, her eyelashes quickly fluttering.
Zhong Zheng Lin's body, which has slightly lightened up back in the hall, completely flared by Mu Xi Yao's naughtiness. He fiercely gripped the woman's plumpness on the bosom, pinching and playing with its red peak.
"Your Highness, painful~~" Mu Xi Yao did not cease her teasing and continued to provoke him. Zhong Zheng Lin narrowed his phoenix eyes a bit. His pupils were pitch-black.
"Let bendian see where does it hurt." He pulled open Mu Xi Yao's upper outer garment and went to suck the place right through the fabric of dudou.
"Is it this place?"
"Ah~~" Mu Xi Yao was taken aback by the unexpected attack. Her entire body went soft. Her arms weakly draped over Zhong Zheng Lin's neck while her cheeks were tinged by vivid red color and mouth slightly opened.
Zhong Zheng Lin panted heavily. Looking at the woman's little springful face3, he ruthlessly tore her last coverage only to have his body stimulated to tremors by her fair plumpness that bounced out. Those perfectly round breasts were snow-white and flawless. The two delicate peaks on top were currently engorged and trembling. They could make any man burn with desire. Zhong Zheng Lin's scorching gaze seemed to carry a fire. As if he could no more hold back some kind of emotion he had stifled inside, he lowered his head to suckle the bud, drawing it lightly into his mouth and twirling it slowly, using his teeth to nibble it.
Mu Xi Yao delicately cried out an "Ah". Her cry caused Zhong Zheng Lin's scalp go numb. His big hand abruptly reached to the place between her legs and pressed on the soft flesh, stroking the place lightly. Unexpectedly, the woman's body was very sensitive as a faint moistness soaked through the fabric of the clothes.
"So sensitive." Zhong Zheng Lin took a deep breath. Subsequently, he ruthlessly tore her underpants and directly went to draw circles and press on the flower bud, teasing it immensely.
Mu Xi Yao's moans grew louder and louder. She kept calling "your Highness" with a trembling voice. Listening to her calls, a seething need raged in Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes. His fingers forcefully parted the petals and entered into a warm and tight overwhelmingly euphoric place. As he was enthralled by the suction of the little mouth underneath, a jade dew sprayed his fingertip, enticing a low roar from Zhong Zheng Lin.
"Vixen. Truly a vixen." Not being able to suppress himself anymore, Zhong Zheng Lin loosened his belt and quickly released his desire which was swollen to the extreme. He turned Mu Xi Yao around and had her prop up against the thick and solid branch of the ink bamboo, grinding the woman's tender flesh from behind.
"Ah～～No, your Highness～～" Mu Xi Yao exclaimed. Another tide of spring water poured on Zhong Zheng Lin's erect flesh.
"Oh!" Zhong Zheng Lin had never been this stimulated. He moved madly under the woman's body. From time to time, he would accidentally slip into the blissful territory, making both of them shudder with immense lust.
"Good girl. Bendian will just rub a little to relieve the discomfort." Zhong Zheng Lin appeased Mu Xi Yao through the ragged breathing. Yet, his movements underneath did not slow down. Instead, it increased its frantic pace.
"Your Highness, uncomfortable～ Qie wants to return back to the bedchamber." The woman sobbed moans. Her body instinctively moved backward to meet Zhong Zheng Lin's thrusts. She used glossy and misty eyes to look back at him, a strong desire engulfing her expression. Obviously, she also could not stand the torment.
Zhong Zheng Lin was so enticed by the sultry look of the woman before his eyes that his manhood throbbed and jumped slightly. Yet, the little of the sanity he had left urged him to hold onto Mu Xi Yao and casually wrap her in outer robe. Afterward, he rushed to the main house with large strides. Amid the walking, the man's tall and straight length kept rubbing against Mu Xi Yao's thigh and abdomen which resulted in the woman's low and soft moans at his ear.
"Good girl. Touch it. It feels really uncomfortable!" Zhong Zheng Lin's voice was low and hoarse while his brows were furrowed.
Mu Xi Yao understood the man's pain that came from halting at the critical moment. Therefore, she shed her embarrassment and grasped the bulge, wrapping her hand around it. She run it up and down and then went to tantalize the round balls beneath it. In turn, she heard the man's satisfied sigh. His breathing kept growing heavier and heavier. His heart beat like drums.
Zhong Zheng Lin entered the main house in a lighting speed. He kicked open the entrance door and then closed them with a bang. Afterward, he carried Mu Xi Yao hurriedly to the bed in the inner room.
Translator's notes:
[1] You – in this context is used polite you which is not the same as ordinary you
[2] Stroll in the east and take a look in the west – to have a look, sightseeing
[3] Springful – Chinese word spring beside having the meaning of a season can also refer to passion and sexual desire
27
The bed was only two steps away from them but Zhong Zheng Lin could not wait anymore. He stripped their clothes off and put the person on the bed.
Under the light, the woman's whole body flushed with faint pink, from time to time shaking with a tremor, which made Zhong Zheng Lin's Adam's apple bob in accord.
He looked at her till shyness swamped Mu Xi Yao. Seeing him standing there and towering above her, she wanted to tease him a little, but a hot male body impatiently covered her.
"Told you to not provoke. You just don't listen. If you would have a hard time in a moment, it will be you who had brought it upon yourself."
Mu Xi Yao tormented Zhong Zheng Lin till he lost all of his reason. He opened both of her legs. The sight that greeted him almost made him erupt. The woman's flower bud was dewy, its petals slightly opening and closing, spilling out threads of jade dew.
How could Zhong Zheng Lin stand it? He pushed the crown against the entrance of the flower bud and, seizing the opportunity, his scorching hotness entered inside, slamming in without any hesitation. Henceforth, taking Mu Xi Yao's innocence.
Mu Xi Yao was a virgin, but since she had spiritual pills to nourish her, she was naturally different compared to other women. There was only a little pain. Afterward, she only felt the joy of the lovemaking between man and woman. Her inside was extraordinarily beautiful, pressing and sucking, making the man on top of her thrusting in and out of her with a frantic speed.
Zhong Zheng Lin has never before felt so uninhibited in this matter. That alluring place of the woman underneath him was so tight and exquisite he was unable to describe it with mere words. Moreover, there were thousands of creases sucking, teasing and sheathing his manhood. At the forefront, a soft flesh pressed against the slit at his tip. He was overwhelmed with ecstasy, feeling like being in the seventh heaven.
"There's actually not even one place that's not beautiful, not exquisite." Zhong Zheng Lin gripped both of Mu Xi Yao's legs, fiercely pumping in and out. His voice was hoarse and words intermittent.
"Your Highness is also…vigorous." Mu Xi Yao replied seductively between moans.
"Simply impudent! Today bendian won't spare you!"
For a little while, red candles gently flickered inside the room, mandarin ducks rubbing against each other's neck, the quilt rummaged by red waves.
Hearing the movement inside, Mo Lan who was just on the night duty outside the main house quickly ordered little servant girls to retreat a bit further away. Her face was scorching red with shyness. She had her head lowered so deep it seemed to have a difficult time to lift up. The chief steward Tian Fu Shan who had specially rushed over here was, on the contrary, so elated he looked like a mentally deranged person. This was the first time his Highness has lost control in lovemaking. Listening to noises inside, it seemed that his Highness was very satisfied with mistress Yao.
It was more than satisfactory. Currently, Zhong Zheng Lin even had a wish to swallow Mu Xi Yao whole. After finishing, while caressing her sweat-drenched skin, Zhong Zheng Lin called for water. He personally tidied her up and then held her to lie down. He discovered that the more Mu Xi Yao was aroused, the stronger her natural body scent became and hence the more seductive she turned to be, making one simply unable to stop oneself. After this one lovemaking, Zhong Zheng Lin finally came to understand that the matter his brothers had been teasing him about was actually wonderful.
However, that was not entirely true as other women were all tasteless to him. No matter how he tossed with them he always felt that something was lacking. As a result, he came to cherish this demoness Mu even more.
As he thought, unexpectedly, he became once again overcome with lust. Looking at Mu Xi Yao's beautiful eyes being half closed, he knew she was a little bit tired. Unfortunately, she had stirred a fire inside his body thus he could only turn her over and press over her body again.
In a daze, she was only aware that she was being tossed by him again and again like there was no end.
At first, Tian Fu Shan stood outside while vigorously laughing up his sleeves but as those sounds of movements went off and on until fourth geng1, he could not bear it anymore and leaned against the soft chair by the doorway, squinting his eyes and dozing off. Only when he finally heard the people indoor call for the water again and it has completely stilled inside did the chief steward go dazedly to the front to rest. Inwardly, he was secretly admiring his Highness. As expected of the one practicing the martial art all year round. This kind of stamina. Tsk, tsk….
When Mu Xi Yao woke up it was already the second day's afternoon. She tried to move a little as she recalled last night's madness. Her whole body immediately ached. She froze. She snorted inwardly, blaming Zhong Zheng Lin. He was simply a starved wolf, a beast! Even as she fell asleep and was awakened, the first thing she saw were beads of sweat that tumbled from his handsome face, drop by drop dripping on her chest, so scalding it was frightening.
While she was thinking, she saw Zhong Zheng Lin come in carrying a tray. An aroma of food drifted across the whole room. Mu Xi Yao wrinkled her nose and looked aggrievedly at Zhong Zheng Lin, "Hungry~~" When she recalled that she could not stand up, she even more delicately said, "Sore~~"
Zhong Zheng Lin knew that he lost control yesterday and has gone too far hence he went over and gently lifted her up. Afterward, he called people in to help her freshen up. Spoon after spoon, he fed her the meal and only then did he let her lie on his bosom, resting there comfortably.
"Does your Highness feel distressed for qie?" Mu Xi Yao shamelessly asked the man behind her.
"Uhm. Do you still hurt a lot?" She was still a virgin. After yesterday, she must be having a hard time.
"Hurt. Your Highness did not take any pity on qie~~" Well, she began to act spoilt. Her delicate and soft voice made Zhong Zheng Lin's body a little fervent. He quickly distracted himself with official matters. She simply drove him nuts.
"Are there any official matters that your Highness has to attend to in a little while?" Mu Xi Yao raised her hand to rub it against his chest.
"No. Is there anything you want?" Zhong Zheng Lin looked at her little delicateness and then reached his hand to caress her cheek. Although his face was solemn as per usual his movement was very soft.
"Uhm. Want to sleep in your Highness's embrace." Zhong Zheng Lin planted a light kiss on her forehead and then lied down with her in his arms, taking an afternoon rest.
These two were all lovey-dovey here, but the outside world has already turned upside down.
Yuancheng Emperor looked at the documents the imperial censors handed over. Most of them were impeaching the sixth prince Zhong Zheng Lin for disregarding decorum, lacking conduct and that he shall amend his etiquette and discipline his behavior. Yuancheng emperor read the documents with keen interest, amused inside. As for punishment? Is there a need to mention? Leaving it there without taking any further actions!
These censors! They did not understand at all Yuancheng Emperor's inward worry and anxiety. The sixth prince's indifference to inner yard almost made Yuancheng Emperor think that there was completely no hope to see his offsprings in this lifetime. Nowadays, he had just taken a shufei and there was already such a big improvement. It was indeed a good sign as things were according to Yuancheng Emperor's wishes. If he produced sons, it would be even more reassuring.
Reward! He must reward. This Mu'shi was very good. At least she could make Zhong Zheng Lin willingly get close to her. He hoped that Tang'shi would also not let him down. In that case, the residence would quickly be bustling with liveness. The great Wei's imperial household paid great attention to the proliferation of sons and flourishment of offsprings. With a wave of Yuancheng Emperor's pen, a string of rare treasures went inside Danruo Courtyard.
Her ladyship Shu was even more overjoyed. She kept repeating over and over again that Zhong Zheng Lin has been enlightened. As a result, another cart of silk and satin fabrics, exquisite clothes and fine delicates has been sent to Danruo Courtyard. Subsequently, consort Shu told Zhong Zheng Lin that when he was free he was to take Mu'shi to her to pay respect. This was a great chance for one to raise prestige. The ones able to pay respect to the palace consorts were usually womenfolk in the prince's residence that had the rank of cefei or above. Mu Xi Yao has entered the prince's residence for just one day, moreover as shufei, yet she has so quickly entered the eyes of consort Shu2. It was simply a great blessing.
Once these two's rewards were bestowed, which one of the Zhong Zheng Lin's women could not be jealous? It was just each of them could only hide their thoughts and plot secretly.
Translator's notes:
[1] Fourth geng – fourth of the five night watch periods 01:00-03:00
[2] Enter to one's eyes means pleasing to one's eyes
28
Last night, except for Mu Xi Yao who could fall deeply asleep, all the other women in the inner yard had their eyes opened till the dawn. During the daytime, they have heard his Highness's shocking actions. Sometime later, his Highness has entered Danruo Courtyard and since then has not come out. He didn't even go to see lady Tang who was also shufei.
What was even more stunning was that his Highness had actually rested in Mu shufei's place for the whole night. It was rumored that yesterday evening the noise there lasted till the fourth geng and they had called twice for water before things have calmed down. When the women heard of it, their complexions turned ugly.
Before, everyone was the same as his Highness was cold toward them all. As a result, they were able to live in peace. At least it proved that his sixth Highness wasn't much interested in women charms. That lady Mu has just entered the residence and she has already given everyone a slap on the face. Who said it was his sixth Highness who was not being interested? Clearly, these women weren't capable enough and couldn't entice a man. When it's put this way, hasn't everyone just been offended?
Lady Kong was so infuriated she threw down a teacup. Previously she was still contemplating that if there was someone favored, she would be able to make a comparison. However, the problem was that the current favored one had her starting point set too high. There was no way for lady Kong to compare to her. Though she had well-behavedly waited in the inner yard for two years, till now she hadn't even seen her son's shadow. And that lady Mu? His Highness has not even given her the contraceptive soup! Evidently, his Highness wanted to provide her with a son so that she would have a backing in the residence. Lady Kong's frustration grew. Since there was now someone to his Highness's liking in the inner yard, when will it be her stead to serve his Highness?
Lady Wu, on the other hand, was truly well-behaved as she didn't even have the courage to vie for the favor. She couldn't help but feel sad, wanting to shed tears. Lady Wu revered Zhong Zheng Lin wholeheartedly, but since she cared about him too much and was also self-conscious she became increasingly compliant which just resulted in Zhong Zheng Lin disliking her. Nowadays, she was even more terrified. She was afraid that his Highness would never again visit her courtyard, that even seeing him would become an extravagance.
Lady Zhang continued to keep her cool since she still hasn't served his Highness yet. Although unwilling, she wasn't that anxious to strive for a favor at the moment. His Highness must still be seeking novelty with that lady Mu. As days go, she will have her chance.
As for lady Qi who was put under the house arrest. She had absolutely no knowledge about this matter. She was still recuperating in her courtyard, quietly reflecting on her carelessness. She was thinking about how to nurse her body back to health, how to reverse his Highness's impression of her, how to…. make a comeback.
The only steady one was the generous Tang shufei. Yesterday, she was provoked just enough. In the evening, she started to revise the train of her thoughts. She thought that instead of fighting with that jinx, Mu'shi, she should concentrate on making herself more dignified and virtuous, become a begonia flower1 in his Highness's inner yard. A personage like his Highness must certainly value more future prospects. In that case, she shall properly act as the most thoughtful woman so that his Highness would think highly of her. Later on, as she gives birth to a son, her position would naturally turn steady so that nobody would be able to move it.
Inside the bedchamber of Danruo Courtyard, Zhong Zheng Lin woke up and took a look at the time. He quietly got up and put on a coat. Afterward, he went out and ordered Mo Lan and Hui Lan to go inside and attend to Mu Xi Yao with grooming.
"Your Highness." When Mu Xi Yao arrived to the main hall, she just happened to see Zhong Zheng Lin browsing a book.
"Uhm. The rabbits are already in the pet house. Do you want to go and have a look?" Seeing Mu Xi Yao coming, Zhong Zheng Lin put down the book. He took her hand and seated her down. Afterward, he passed her a cup of lukewarm water.
Mu Xi Yao slowly drank the water. She felt that her body has finally recovered, feeling a bit better. "Qie wants to go. Has your Highness seen them?"
"Not yet. Been waiting for you." A tiny smile curled up on Mu Xi Yao's face. She sweetly gave Zhong Zheng Lin a kiss. The two rose up and have reached the doorway when they heard Zhao momo announcing that chief steward sought an audience.
Zhong Zheng Lin nodded and had Tian Fu Shan directly go to the pet house. He then slowly took Mu Xi Yao there.
"Where did your Highness found the book you have read just now? Is there a library in the courtyard?"
"Uhm. It's prepared for you. Bendian assumed you would like the books inside. If there are other ones you want, inform the chief steward."
After receiving things she liked, Mu Xi Yao began to act cockily. One could see a hint of an excitement on her face. She linked her arm with Zhong Zheng Lin's and praised, "Your Highness is so good."
Zhong Zheng Lin suddenly wanted to tease her, "Good where?"
Mu Xi Yao immediately flattered, "Everywhere. From top to bottom, from the inside to the outside." She even repeatedly nodded her head.
"From top to bottom, from the inside to the outside?….. So it's like that. Tonight, bendian will work hard to not disappoint the beauty's praise."
Mu Xi Yao was dumbfounded. This fellow simply grew to be more and more indecent! He could connect anything to that matter, knowing only how to take liberties with her. Her eyes turned, "The whole Great Wei knows that the sixth Highness is not into women's charms~" Checkmate. Let's see how you'll play, hoodlum!
"Uhm. This is called collecting a demoness." After finishing, he even looked her up and down. The meaning behind his words was self-evident.
Mu Xi Yao not only didn't take the advantage, she was also being laughed at. Her fur immediately fluffed out. She used her delicate golden lotus2 to step on Zhong Zheng Lin's foot, not forgetting to lightly stomp her feet afterward while raising her eyebrow. Being unreasonable was a woman's privilege. What can you do to me?
Zhong Zheng Lin looked at the tiny bit Mu Xi Yao before him who was hopping here and there naughtily. Afraid that she would fall, he quickly took the person into his arms and whispered into her ear, "Hopping vigorously, uhm?" Seeing her staring at him provocatively, he delightfully added, "Bendian's Jiao Jiao3 is very fit." His eyes seemed to implicate a deep message which made Mu Xi Yao tremble in fear.
When the chief steward came out from the corner, he saw mistress Yao playing lively over there while his Highness carried a leisure expression. The corners of his mouth were curled up into a smile. The two kept whispering at each other's ears, making things awkward for him. Tian Fu Shan coughed lightly after which mistress Yao instantly changed into a quiet and sweet-tempered demeanor. He went over to pay the two respect while holding back laughter.
Looking at the chief steward of the residence, Mu Xi Yao thought that he not only appeared to be younger than she had imagined but also seemed to be easy-going. She slightly nodded and greeted him with a smile. Hearing chief steward Tian say that he had a matter to report, Mu Xi Yao told them that she would go to see the rabbits. She then went inside and left the two out, too lazy to listen to their conversation.
At the moment, Mu Xi Yao felt a great pity that she had not time-traveled into a rabbit. Just look at those two adorable things. Be it food they eat, things they use or place they live, any of the mentioned was better than what the ordinary family possessed. This was not a pet house, this was simply a president suite. Was it necessary for two rabbits to have such a big house? What was even more exaggerating was that an ice bucket lied just beside them! Although there was only one, the ice inside the bucket was bigger than those two rabbits added together. Their treatment could slowly even catch up with Zhong Zheng Lin's concubines.
Mu Xi Yao envied them deeply. These two rabbits did nothing, yet they lived off better than she did in her previous life. Though she had a little higher rank of shufei in this lifetime, she was still doomed to a life of hard work. Her days were obviously not as comfortable as theirs. Could it be the so-called difference in the horoscope?
When Zhong Zheng Lin came in with Tian Fu Shan, he saw Mu Xi Yao crouching there, grudgingly watching her darling rabbits. However you looked at her, her expression seemed strange. It resembled a bit of….envy? He saw her stretch her hand and poke rabbits' buttocks, squeeze rabbit's ears and mumbling something.
Zhong Zheng Lin practiced martial arts hence he had sharp ears and keen sight. He needn't use internal force to hear what was that woman muttering about, "It's so good to be a rabbit. How can they be so lucky?"
The corner of Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes hopped while the chief steward's cheek twitched. This woman was just too outrageous. While facing two rabbits she could even come to envy them. Apparently, she needed a discipline.
"Envying rabbits?" Zhong Zheng Lin reached his hand to pat her head.
Mu Xi Yao turned around and looked up at Zhong Zheng Lin with a grudged expression, "Your Highness, do you give rabbits a monthly salary?"
When chief steward heard mistress Yao's words, he was almost unable to stand steady. This, which family's rabbit would receive a monthly salary?
Zhong Zheng Lin was amused by her aggrieved appearance, "Never. Do you want to mischief again?"
Mu Xi Yao immediately smiled, "That's better. It finally seems that qie is more doted than those rabbits."
Zhong Zheng Lin reached his hand to pull the person into his arms. He leaned over Mu Xi Yao's ear, "It seems like someone wasn't attentive last night. Tonight, Jiao Jiao needs to experience it first-hand." What followed after was a scorching kiss.
The chief steward quickly retreated and went outside to guard the door. He wiped the sweat. Mistress Yao was truly brilliant, to be able to come out with such a sophisticated way to strive for a favor. It was still broad daylight, yet she has found an opportunity to flirt with his Highness. The result was indeed…..very intense.
If Mu Xi Yao were to learn about chief steward's thoughts, she would surely stomp in anger. Who was flirting with that fellow in the broad daylight? Big sis was sighting about the hardship of time-traveling, about time-traveling at a bad time!
Translator's notes:
[1] Begonia flower used to describe a beautiful woman or that a beautiful woman was sociable and charming
[2] Golden Lotus is a metaphor using to refer to maiden's feet (lotus feet)
[3] Jiao Jiao is an endeavor Zhong Zheng Lin uses to call Mu Xi Yao, something like (Lizzy for Elizabeth)
29
As for the fact that Mu shufei felt that she wasn't as doted as the rabbits, the sixth Highness thought that she shouldn't feel like so. Henceforth, on that same evening, in the bed, Zhong Zheng Lin used his body to teach Mu Xi Yao what it meant to be "doted". Since he was worried about this woman's memory, he kept repeatedly proving to her over and over again. Only when Mu Xi Yao has guaranteed sobbingly that she has learnt it very clearly and will never again get it confused did Zhong Zheng Lin stopped his attacks.
Mu Xi Yao has been ruthlessly disciplined by Zhong Zheng Lin. Her whole body felt weak. She leaned against the man's body with slightly red eyes while panting. Zhong Zheng Lin felt refreshed all over. He caressed her back and lightly lapped and nipped at her little ear.
"Ticklish~" Mu Xi Yao softly murmured. Her head leaned to the side to avoid Zhong Zheng Lin's harassment.
"Just now, did it feel good?" Zhong Zheng Lin asked with a hoarse voice.
"Hateful~Not saying." Mu Xi Yao kicked his leg with her little foot to express that she was very angry.
"You have forgot then?"
Mu Xi Yao became frightened. She quickly sighed out stuffily an "uhm" that almost couldn't be heard.
She was still pretty angry. As a result, she opened her mouth and bit his chest. She then moved her body and changed herself to a more comfortable position. She hugged Zhong Zheng Lin and took a rest.
"Do you want to take a bath?"
"Cannot walk, sore~" Mu Xi Yao felt very aggrieved. As if having recalled something, she added, "You're not allowed to bully."
Zhong Zheng Lin pinched her little nose and carried the person to the Shuangyan pool at the back.
After the two have tidied themselves properly, Mu Xi Yao comfortably snuggled into the man's embrace, her eyelids growing heavier and heavier.
"Sleep." Zhong Zheng Lin tightened the hold on the soft little body in his arms and also fell asleep.
—–
Mu Xi Yao was scooped up by Zhong Zheng Lin early in the morning. While muddleheaded, she was freshened up and then stuffed into the carriage. Currently, she was consuming little refreshments to fill her stomach.
"Your Highness, where are we going?" Mu Xi Yao was propped against Zhong Zheng Lin's body, not fully awake yet.
"We'll head to Yu residence after using the breakfast in Yue House." Zhong Zheng Lin moved forward and licked the residue on the corner of her mouth before releasing the little woman.
"Head to Yu residence?" Mu Xi Yao exclaimed as she has, at last, sobered up.
Mu Xi Yao has never thought that after entering the imperial prince's harem, she would be able to see lady Yu so quickly. She looked at Zhong Zheng Lin dazedly, her eyes slowly teared up.
"What's there to cry about? Silly." Zhong Zheng Lin softly gathered the person into his arms and gently caressed her supple hair.
Mu Xi Yao rubbed against his chest while her little hands grabbed the lapels at Zhong Zheng Lin's front. With a voice that carried sobs, she said stuffily, "Your Highness, I'm very happy."
—–
After the two used the breakfast, they bought some snacks, desserts and also some signature dishes from Yue House and went to the Yu residence.
Lady Yu originally planned to return back to Qingzhou with concubine Wu after Mu Xi Ting's marriage, but who would have thought that the sixth Highness would take her daughter back to her parental home1? It was reasonable to say that shufei did not have a home visit rite. But at the present, they have already arrived at the doorway. As soon as Yu residence's people pulled themselves together, they hastily went to make preparations.
After going inside, Zhong Zheng Lin went to the front yard to talk with Mu Xi Yao's maternal grandfather. Mu Xi Yao, following lady Yu, went to the courtyard she has inhabited before marrying off. She also did not forget to bring Mu Xi Ting along to have a chit-chat with her.
Lady Yu has naturally asked Mu Xi Yao about her well-being. She also instructed her to not act lawlessly and throw tantrums in the inner yard. Lady Yu's talks made Mu Xi Yao pout her lips and roll her eyes. Mu Xi Ting, who was listening at the side, looked at Xi Yao very enviously. She thought that the sixth Highness treated her elder sister excellently as he had provided her with welcoming and then home visit rites. He evidently doted on her. She wondered if the fifth Highness would also treat her this way.
As soon as lady Yu finished her lecture, Mu Xi Yao complained to her that Zhong Zheng Lin bullied her. She even leaned over to show lady Yu the little neck of hers that had been gnawed by Zhong Zheng Lin in the carriage, making lady Yu not know whether to cry or laugh and also a little awkward. She pulled at her ear and slowly laughed. Mu Xi Ting was still innocent but she understood the matter inside thus she lowered her head, her face flushing with color.
After a while, Mu Xi Yao remembered about the food and gifts she had brought. She quickly had two orchid flowers help her sort them out. Mu Xi Yao has even specifically declared that the food was picked by her while the gifts were prepared by his Highness. If they did not like them they ought to deal the matter with him. Her unreasonable little appearance made everyone in the house burst in laughter.
During the noon, everyone has enjoyed a very lively meal. After engaging in a bit of talk, Zhong Zheng Lin had people fetch Mu Xi Yao, and return to the palace. Learning that lady Yu would go back to Qingzhou in few days, Mu Xi Yao pouted her lips and bid her a farewell with teary eyes. Only then did she reluctantly climb into the carriage. Looking at her pitiful as if she was being abandoned kind of appearance, he couldn't restrain himself and laughed. However, he still remembered to hold the person and softly pat her back, "Bendian's Jiao Jiao is more of a crybaby than those little girls."
Hearing this, Mu Xi Yao, who was dispirited just a moment ago, immediately protested. She raised her head to suck Zhong Zheng Lin's chin, lightly nipping at it. Humph after humph broke out from her mouth.
Zhong Zheng Lin narrowed his phoenix eyes and spanked her little derriere twice, "If you keep provoking, bendian will put you in order right in the carriage."
Mu Xi Yao was so infuriated she reached out her hand to pinch him. Cheeks puffed, she glared at him with dark eyes, "Gentleman uses mouth and not fists!"
Zhong Zheng Lin's long and narrow phoenix eyes stared her in the eyes. His gaze carried an overbearing dominance, "Toward you, bendian has never thought of acting like a gentleman." In order to prove his statement, his big hand grasped one of Mu Xi Yao's plumpness. His eyes were still looking into her eyes, but his hand used a little bit more of force. Mu Xi Yao was so scared she cried out in a low voice. She quickly went to rest against him, playing a good girl.
After finishing playing and joking, Mu Xi Yao suddenly raised her head, fixing her moisty eyes on Zhong Zheng Lin's handsome face. With a face full of smiles, she pouted and pressed her lips against his. Mu Xi Yao then hugged his neck and slowly propped against his body, softly brushing her lips against his ear, "Your Highness, qie thanks you."
Zhong Zheng Lin's body slightly stiffened. He hugged Mu Xi Yao tightly and responded with a very light "uhm".
—–
On this day, the mistresses in the residence got up very early. They tidied themselves up, wanting to go to pay respect to his Highness and also greet the other courtyards' people. However, before they have stepped out of their doors, the chief steward sent people to announce them that his Highness had taken Mu shufei to visit her parental home and they were to wait in the main house at the hour of Shen2.
All the women secretly gritted their teeth. Even lady Tang's eyes reddened3. His Highness's heart was just too biased. Although according to the etiquette, when the imperial prince took cefei, there was a home visit custom, however, it depended on whether his Highness was willing or not. When the unfavored cefei returned to her parental home, she would also take along objects his Highness had bestowed to her to make a show. This Mu'shi was not even cefei. How could have she made his Highness personally visit her parental home? It was even more out of the line than the welcoming rite. The welcoming rite only meant that his Highness valued this person or the clan behind her but the home visit clearly told everyone that he was very satisfied with this person. Only this person.
The mere shufei lady Mu has yet again become the focus of the whole Shengjing. Naturally, there was an increase in the stacks of memorials passed by imperial censors on the imperial table of Yuancheng Emperor.
On the other side.
When Mu Xi Yao returned to the palace, she didn't have the slightest idea that she has again drew attention to herself. Before Zhong Zheng Lin went to the front yard to attend to the official duties, he told her to go back and take an afternoon nap. At the hour of Shen he will come over and pick her to go to the main house, to let those women come and greet them. Mu Xi Yao obediently nodded and went back to catch up her sleep.
—–
The main hall was a scene of bouquets of flowers and piles of brocades. Each courtyards' mistress brought along with her maidservants, making the whole place into a landscape of flowers and trees that thrived and was tinted with bright colors. It was quite bustling with noise and excitement. Even lady Qi, who was under the house arrest, was released. Only, she stood at the side with a slightly sickly appearance, her face proud and aloof. Since lady Qi was spurned by Zhong Zheng Lin, nobody went to bother her. Everyone kept a distance from her.
Lady Qi had only one servant girl at the side who was supporting her. Her heart was consumed with hate. Just looking at these wenches in front of her who were acting so coquettishly made her wish she could use a pack of drug and poison them all. As her eyes were sizzling with rage, she saw a woman attired in a pink dress leisurely enter.
That woman was not very old. Her hair ornament was according to shufei's etiquette. Her appearance was beautiful and her figure well-rounded.
The people present did not know which shufei has arrived. Fortunately, there was a steward to remind them. Everyone hence curtsied and greeted Tang Yi Ru and consciously went to sit down on the lower seats.
At this time, the chief steward Tian Fu Shan announced the arrival of Zhong Zheng Lin.
Everyone quickly stood up and groomed their dresses, assuming their most beautiful demeanours. As soon as they saw the man's tall and straight silhouette appear in the doorway, in a swoosh, a crowd of women bowed to pay him respect. Their greeting resonated one after another.
Translator's notes:
[1] Bringing the bride to her parental home occurred three days after the wedding ceremony. It was a ceremony that only the ranks of cefei and above could enjoy. In the case of cefei, it depended on the prince's willingness
[2] Hour of Shen is 3-5 pm
[3] One's eyes reddening is a phrase meaning envy
30
Mu Xi Yao's hand was held by Zhong Zheng Lin. She hasn't yet entered the room but she was already frightened. What a big spectacle it was!
Well, there was no need to bother with this woman. She didn't understand at all a distressed and agitated heart which was anxious to compete for the favor.
They didn't hear his Highness tell them to stand. As a result, everyone could only obediently bent their knees and crouch there.
Lady Qi's legs felt a little numb. While she had her head bowed down, she saw the man's blue-green robe pass by her. Behind him, a water-green skirt has consecutively brushed against her. She knew that lady Mu has arrived with his Highness. Sure enough, when everyone was told to rise and they looked up, they saw Mu shufei sitting beside his Highness.
That woman was very beautiful. She appeared to be young, maybe fourteen-fifteen years old. Though she did not possess a beauty that would topple countries, her facial features were very exquisite. Her skin appeared tender and fair, like the luster of gems, while her body was shapely. What was even more remarkable was her pair of beautiful eyes that were bright and full of life, making people mesmerized by them. She was attired in a simple and refreshing clothes, which gave off an aura of elegance to people. The gaze she cast them did not carry an overbearing arrogance. There was only a tiny curiosity.
Everyone inevitably felt a little jealousy in their hearts. This kind of appearance, no wonder his Highness was bewitched by this vixen. However, depending on the beauty was not a long-lasting strategy. Thus, inwardly they looked down upon Mu Xi Yao.
Zhong Zheng Lin brought up the teacup and slowly took a sip, following which everyone sat down on their respective seats.
Zhong Zheng Lin has again resumed to his usual imposing and aloof demeanor.
Lady Tang felt a little awkward at the moment. The two head seats were already occupied by his Highness and Mu'shi whom he had took along. Since she and Mu'shi were both shufei, it made no sense to sit on Mu'shi's right-hand seat. Today, if she put up with it, it would mean that she has admitted, for no reason, that she was beneath her. In the future, if she wanted to retain her face, it would be difficult.
Just as she was immersed in her thoughts, Zhong Zheng Lin called for Tian Fu Shan. The chief steward took the hint, and soon, he added a seat on his Highness's other side.
Tang Yi Ru was ecstatic. Apparently, his Highness wasn't completely biased. He still took her face into consideration. She quickly thanked him and dignifiedly sat down.
Mu Xi Yao wasn't the least bit surprised by Zhong Zheng Lin's move. How could the man, who was able to ascend to the throne in the future, not have even this little manners? Besides, Zhong Zheng Lin was always lenient toward the well-behaving women. Nowadays, though she was special to him and he also has developed some feelings for her, she was far from being his one and only. Therefore, it was more reliable to grasp firmly his favor and give birth to the son.
When the four women seated below saw that his Highness has graced Tang shufei with respect, the rejoice they felt from her misfortune was completely gone. She was still shufei, after all. Even if she was not as favored as lady Mu, his Highness still won't allow misconduct in his inner yard.
Due to the fact that lady Kong and lady Wu had entered the residence early, they took the two lower right-hand seats. After them were lady Zhang and lady Qi.
Subsequently, each of them came forward to pay respect to two shuifei according to their seating order. They have passed them their hand-made needleworks and, in turn, received return gifts from them. Mu Xi Yao looked at these women silently, comparing them with the ones in her memory. She felt that there was no difference except for lady Qi whose face was pale and body a little weak. She seemed to be sick?
As a result, Mu Xi Yao asked her good-heartedly a courteous question, "Is lady Qi ill? Did the imperial physician see her?"
The people who knew the circumstances instantly quietened, dropping their heads down. Lady Qi's face was flushed with a deep color. Apart from Mu Xi Yao and lady Tang who were unaware of this incident, everyone else had observed the "ceremony".
Although Tang Yi Ru has also noticed that something was not right with lady Qi, she smartly kept quiet. At the moment, seeing Mu'shi mention this matter, she thought that Mu'shi was two years younger than her, after all. Her actions were reckless. She hadn't carefully checked out the situation in the residence yet and already has brashly opened her mouth.
Mu Xi Yao didn't have these concerns. When she saw everyone's reaction, she immediately knew that there was something fishy going on. She kept gazing at lady Qi with those big eyes of hers, intending to find it out no matter what.
Seeing lady Mu act so relentless, lady Qi thought that she has specially come to nitpick her. Since his Highness was still in the hall, she couldn't lose her manners thus she replied with a stiff face, "Thanks for shufei's care. The imperial physician has already seen qie. There's no big issue." Yet, her heart was bleeding inside. How could there be no big issue? She has recuperated for days, but she didn't show any sign of improvement.
Mu Xi Yao saw her odd expression. Just as she wanted to continue with the inquiry, she noticed that Zhong Zheng Lin's expression also didn't look good. Huh? Could it be that this matter was related to this man?
As soon as Zhong Zheng Lin saw Qi'shi, he instantly recalled that night's humiliation. The fire inside his heart rushed out with a fizzling sound. He didn't expect that Mu Xi Yao would coincidentally ask about it. Zhong Zheng Lin absolutely didn't wish to let her know about the incident. Such an embarrassing thing, how could he let the little woman learn about it? Henceforth, he sat there silently with a cold face. When he looked at lady Qi, his expression turned ruthless and chilly.
Lady Qi was scared by Zhong Zheng Lin's sudden anger. She shrunk her body and immediately lowered her head. Mu Xi Yao was entertained by this scene. Oh, what were they playing now? It seemed quite interesting. When they return, she ought to ask him.
"It's good that you're alright. Take proper care of your body and have your people attend to you well." Afterward, she asked no more.
When Mu Xi Yao finished asking, Tang Yi Ru turned her head to consult with her while carrying a tiny smile, "Nowadays, his Highness's inner yard is getting more and more lively. What does little sister think about establishing customs so that people from each courtyard would have rules to direct them?"
After hearing lady Tang's words, Zhong Zheng Lin used his thumb to stroke back and forth the teacup. He lowered his lids, his phoenix eyes carrying a deep serenity inside them. Tang'shi was a clever one but, unfortunately, she was unable to keep her calm. The little woman was bound to stretch her claws and make a fuss in a moment.
Mu Xi Yao didn't like to beat around the bush. She put the teacup straight down, "Little sister is not good with customs. Elder sister should just feel free to speak out what's on your mind."
Lady Tang was choked by her straightforwardness and stumped for words. She didn't know how to start talking.
Just as she was engrossed in awkwardness, she heard Mu Xi Yao saying, "However, little sister thinks there's no need for morning greetings. It's just too tormenting." She put on an appearance that was, as if, saying that she was very considerate and reasonable.
Inside, Zhong Zheng Lin had secretly laughed. It was, obviously, because she was lazy and didn't want to get up. But now, it became her becoming a generous person.
Tang Yi Ru was just about to speak, but Mu Xi Yao has again gone ahead of her, "As for serving his Highness, it shall depend on everyone's skills. People who are favored ought to do their best to attend to his Highness. People who are not favored ought to continue their efforts." She then took the teapot, indicating that she has finished talking.
The four concubines' expression started to turn ugly. If they were favored, would they have waited until she entered the residence to continue their efforts? Wasn't it obviously an empty talk? Currently, she was the only one who has received his Highness's grace in the inner yard. Lady Tang, on the other hand, could share a little bit of it because of her status. Didn't this lady Mu just want to monopolize his Highness's favor?
Tang Yi Ru, who was sitting on the head seat, was also dissatisfied. What kind of customs were these? Dismissing the greetings already discorded with etiquette. This arrangement about serving his Highness was even more ridiculous. Moreover, her "it shall depend on everyone's skill" sounded very wretched. Was this a brothel where prostitutes were attracting customers or a common household where concubine was bewitching a man to her chamber? Tang Yi Ru's brows furrowed. Her face looked displeased.
At first, when Zhong Zheng Lin listened to the little woman, he secretly felt elated. But, it was until he heard her blunt "custom". If things truly went as this woman said "it shall depend on everyone's skill", Zhong Zheng Lin thought about that scene. Would he still have a quiet time? The entire inner yard would be probably drowned in the murky atmosphere. No matter where he went, he would be able to meet an enchanting woman aiming to seduce him.
Zhong Zheng Lin's expression became solemn. He looked at everyone and then used his usual cold voice to speak, "Pay attention to your words and actions and keep to your duties."
After hearing his Highness's words, everyone knew that there would be no conclusion today. As a result, they could only obediently comply.
Using the time when others lowered their heads and made complying sounds, Mu Xi Yao's eyes looked at lady Qi's direction while her head leaned to the side, pouting at Zhong Zheng Lin. A calculation was written all over her face.
Zhong Zheng Lin's handsome face immediately blackened. He sternly ordered lady Qi to remain in her house arrest and make a copy of《Women's Guide》one hundred times once she returned to her courtyard.
Lady Qi has been once again reprimanded by Zhong Zheng Lin in the presence of everyone. She had lost all of her face. Inside, she resented that Mu Xi Yao had again mentioned the former matter, making Zhong Zheng Lin recall the grudge he had already forgot. Thinking of a hard time she will face once she went back, she had a strong urge to step forward and tear that wench.
After this incident, Zhong Zheng Lin took the initiative and got up. He pulled Mu Xi Yao's little hand while throwing her a sight that warned her to not act willfully. Then, he took the person and left. The women who were left there could only look helplessly at how his Highness left together with lady Mu. A misery engulfed their hearts.