46
Mu Xi Yao got up early on this day. As soon as she sent Zhong Zheng Lin off, she began to trim ginkgo bonsai in the courtyard. Just as Ruo Lan passed her the scissor, Zhao momo came over along with Shu Tao.
"This servant pays respect to cefei." Mu Xi Yao told her to rise. She then heard Zhao momo say that lady Tang's shu sister sought an audience outside the residence, wanting to visit her di sister and, in passing, greet cefei.
Mu Xi Yao contemplated a little. She had no impression of Tang Yi Ru's shu sister in her mind. She ought to be an irrelevant person. Mu Xi Yao was disinterested. She didn't make things difficult for her and let her in.
"She is dismissed of greeting. Immediately have people take her to shufei."
Later, when Ruo Lan returned she told them that on her way back, she met Shu Mei who was sending a young woman out of the inner yard. They happened to run into his Highness who was heading to the study from the Danruo Courtyard. As the two paid respect to his Highness and respectfully saw him off, apparently an argument broke out. In the end, that young woman, with a face full of cockiness, left the the gate, infuriating Shu Mei so much that she angrily went back to Shuihui Courtyard to report this matter.
Mu Xi Yao's brows slightly knitted. Tang Yi Ru's shu sister came to visit. However, it wasn't to curry favor. On the contrary, she made a ruckus which caused the two to part on bad terms. Although Tang House of Shengjing was a bit better than her household, it was far from reaching the point of taking no regard of the imperial prince's residence. Even if di sister was a shufei, she was still a proper member of the prince's household. How strange.
This Tang Yi Ru and her shu sister's abnormality was maybe worth to look into. Unfortunately, she lacked manpower nowadays. She didn't have people that were able to avoid Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes and ears to assist her. She could only passively wait and see. Only when time to establish a residence outside of the palace comes, she would be able to plant her people discreetly. Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes and ears, though not very clear, she also knew a little about them.
—–
The fourteenth day of the second month, the twenty-eighth day of Hui An's calendar. It will be the last day of the lunar year in another two days. A family feast will be held in the palace. The chief steward sent a list of gifts intended for each palace and residence to Danruo Courtyard so that Mu Xi Yao could look over and see whether changes should be made. Mu Xi Yao took a rough look. After careful thought, she used a brush to highlight several spots. Subsequently, she added the congratulatory gifts from Jia Yi House that were prepared beforehand. She then sent the list to Tian Fu Shan and instructed him to deliver the gifts on time in two days.
Tian Fu Shan originally thought this was cefei's first time managing affairs in the residence. She was so young hence she ought to be still inexperienced. However, to one's surprise, those few spots that were modified seemed to be reasonable, justified and more thoughtful. Perhaps, she had well-considered the matters long time ago. Furthermore, she was very skilled at housekeeping. If so, why was she usually so unwilling to manage household affairs? Other cefeis fought endlessly over the position of the principal consort's aid. Their cefei, on the contrary, refused profusely. Tian Fu Shan couldn't understand.
Mu Xi Yao was naturally unwilling to meddle excessively with the residence's matters.
Firstly, when Zhong Zheng Lin marries and goes out of the palace, all these serving people, beside the most capable few stewards, has to be sent back to the imperial household department. She couldn't take them with her.
Secondly, if she performed too well and shone brightly, wouldn't she be only looking for a trouble after the principal consort enters the residence? She already had a child before the legal wife. If she also took over the household affairs, it'll be no different as clamoring to your immediate superior, "You've got nothing to do here. Go and have fun somewhere else."
Besides, she, Mu Xi Yao, never did things like defending a knife attack for the woman of the inner yard. An insignificant cefei like her wasn't able to accomplish such a self-sacrificing deed!
After that woman enters the residence, she needn't rush forward to confront tough with toughness and hence tax her mind. When the time comes, wouldn't it be wonderful to go and hug the boss's thigh? Having no high ambitions was currently the safest strategy.
—–
Two days later, the congratulatory gifts from other places were also successively delivered to the sixth prince's residence. Since Zhong Zheng Lin had cefei, the visits between women of the inner yard had also increased. Tian Fu Shan became so busy he had to borrow Chun Lan and Ruo Lan to help him with registering hosts in book record. Mu Xi Yao also dispatched Gui momo to assist him. For a moment, everything run neatly and orderly in the residence. There wasn't even the slightest bit of disorder.
Reading the report from the shadow guard, Zhong Zheng Lin felt very helpless. That woman clearly could do a good job, yet she always refused to do so. Based on her cleverness, she ought not to feel like wading that muddy water1. But, it was good this way so as she won't make herself conspicuous in front of the future princess consort who would then make things difficult for her.
On a twenty-ninth day, a feast was held in the imperial prince's residence. Zhong Zheng Lin was hosting a feast at the front and entertaining advisors and subordinate officials, while pregnant Mu Xi Yao along with the women of the inner yard drank tea, engaged in talks and watched the play in the inner yard. In between, a gatekeeper came to report that shufei's sister came to pay a New Year call.
Tang Yi Ru's face paled, feeling deeply embarrassed. She could only inwardly hate that inappropriate wench. She was such a disgrace. The concubines below were also puzzled as for why shufei's sister chose to make a visit today. Wasn't she supposed to pay visit few days before the first month of the lunar year? She had actually made herself a laughing stock.
Mu Xi Yao felt that it would be improper to publicly reject a person in. It would only make the prince's residence seem lacking broad-mindedness. She turned her head to ask Tang Yi Ru's opinion, only to see her forcibly call Shu Mei to bring the person over. Everyone then again listened to the play for a while. Shortly after, they saw a woman in the prime of youth who appeared to be around fifteen-sixteen years old come in leisurely with lotus steps. She had a very pretty and flirtatious appearance, looking prettier than Tang Yi Ru.
"This common woman is Hui Ru of Tang House, pays respect to Mu cefei and all the present sisters." As she said, she curtsied alluringly.
Mu Xi Yao looked at that woman and then turned her head to cast a glance at Tang Yi Ru. Subsequently, she told her to rise and exchanged some pleasantry words with her. Tang Hui Ru was, on the contrary, a natural socializer. She enthusiastically came to join the fun. First, it was paying a New Year call ahead of time and then pulling Tang Yi Ru to chat with her. For a moment, the atmosphere wasn't as cold and awkward as before.
Everyone was engaging in small talks. After the feast in the front finished, they moved to the main hall, waiting for his Highness's arrival. Mu Xi Yao tired for the whole day. She was currently forcing herself to maintain her spirit. As soon as Zhong Zheng Lin came in, she quickly ordered people to serve food.
Zhong Zheng Lin practiced martial arts. Though he has also engaged in social niceties for the whole day, he fared much better than Mu Xi Yao. Seeing the clearly tired face of the little woman, he didn't talk much. Everyone used the meal in silence.
Women like lady Kong haven't seen his Highness for several months. There was no one who wasn't happy inwardly. They only wished that his Highness would cast them few more glances to not put in vain their meticulous dressing early this morning.
Unfortunately, Zhong Zheng Lin's mind was fully preoccupied with Mu Xi Yao and her belly. He had no time to pay heed to other matters. As a result, he didn't notice the burning gazes coming from these women that would wander to him from time to time.
Even before Zhong Zheng Lin came in, Tang Hui Ru hid behind the screen and secretly peeked out from a small crack. When she saw the tall and handsome side profile of the man, her heart kept pounding loudly. She thought that her sister was incapable. She had such a good match, yet she could only spent days alone in an empty boudoir and let that lady Mu take up all the benefits.
Mu Xi Yao had sharp senses. As she was sitting beside Zhong Zheng Lin, she has detected Tang Hui Ru's inappropriate behavior more than once. She finally understood this woman's intentions. She was secretly laughing inside. Tang Yi Ru certainly wanted to squeeze this shu sister to death at the moment. She coveted for her di sister's husband in such a brazen manner. No wonder the two would part on the bad terms.
She was bewildered. With Tang Yi Ru's capabilities, how come she didn't get hold of this sister and instead tolerated her greatly? Could it be that woman had something against her? Mu Xi Yao guessed inside.
After using the meal, Zhong Zheng Lin sent Mu Xi Yao back to her courtyard first and then he turned and headed to the study so he could call Gong Shu Yang and instruct him the assignments of the staff during the New Year's festival.
Before walking out of the inner yard, he saw in the front an unfamiliar woman talking with Tang'shi at the water pavilion. They seemed to have a disagreement. They had no maidservants around. Displeasure appeared on Zhong Zheng Lin's face. Where were their manners?
Tang Hui Ru glimpsed from the corner of her eyes a man attired in the brocade gown coming from the distance. She only felt it was a golden opportunity bestowed to her by Heaven which she couldn't miss. Instantly, she made a decision. She abruptly walked toward lady Tang and quietly said few words against her ear.
Before Zhong Zheng Lin approached them, he saw Tan'shi who was turned backward to him suddenly become so outraged she spoke incoherently. Following after, she raised her hand and a heavy slap fell on that woman's face. It was fast and fierce. The slap occurred so unexpectedly that the other woman made two steps backward. Her body leaned to the side and with a plop, she fell into the pond.
"What's going on?!" Zhong Zheng Lin furiously shouted and quickly walked over, only to see that woman not know how to swim, still struggling in the pond and calling for help. In a flash, his complexion paled with anger.
A dignified imperial prince's courtyard. In the middle of the night, shufei has a secret rendezvous with a person in the garden. Not only was there a dispute but a person has almost died. It was simply outrageous!
Zhong Zheng Lin swept lady Tang a cold glance. He gathered the internal force at the tip of his foot and then leaped over in a few steps and grabbed that sinking person, bringing her back to the shore.
Only after putting the person down did he discover that woman had her eyes tightly shut. Her face was pale. Due to late winter's weather, one could well imagine how ice cold was the water in the pond. The dripping wet hair that was plastered on the woman's face was still dripping water. She didn't wear a coat over her long dress which caused the wet cloth to stick on her delicate body. The curves on her body were completely exposed.
Zhong Zheng Lin's expression become even more uglier. He turned his head and looked coldly at Tang'shi, forcefully stifling the anger. Just as he was about to have her call people to take this woman away, unexpectedly, tears came out of Tang'shi's eyes and her whole body trembled. She just fearfully looked at him and then her eyes rolled and she fainted due to the scare.
The sixth Highness looked at two passed out women on the shore. His ice-cold phoenix eyes were undisturbed. He casually swept a glance at the two's faces, reckoning that they won't die for now. As a result, he paid them no more heed. He swung his sleeves and left. After arriving to the outer courtyard, he called Tian Fu Shan to take the two away.
Wei Zhen was guarding at the doorway to the inner yard all this time. When he saw his Highness come out with a cold and solemn aura, he thought that he had a disagreement with mistress Yao. How could he know that the person who angered his Highness was the one from the Shuhui Courtyard? Wei Zhen shrunk his body and well-behavedly followed behind Zhong Zheng Lin. His eyes were fixed on his feet.
When Zhong Zheng Lin recalled the messy incident just now, his brows gathered together. Tomorrow will be the last day of the lunar year. A family feast will be held in the palace. To encounter a mishap at such time, it was truly wretched.
Translation Notes:
[1] Wading muddy water means involve oneself in trouble
47
When Mu Xi Yao woke up in the morning and discovered that her bedside was untouched, she knew that Zhong Zheng Lin rested in the study yesterday night. She got up and had people attend to her with grooming. As she was using the breakfast, she caught the sight of the sixth Highness lifting up the curtain and coming in with a stony face.
After sizing up the man more closely, Mu Xi Yao filled his bowl with food.
"Did something displease you, your Highness?" Looking at his icy-cold expression early in the morning, Mu Xi Yao only felt the already freezing weather became even more unbearable.
When Zhong Zheng Lin heard Mu Xi Yao's inquiry, his expression slowly softened. He walked over and hugged her waist. Subsequently, he caressed her belly, not replying to her question. He only used meal with her, and then quickly headed to the front yard.
"Mistress, last night chief steward sent people to carry shufei and her sister back to the Shuhui Courtyard. Afterward, they asked for the imperial physician, claiming that both of them were not well. It was noisy over there for the whole night." As soon as Zhao momo received the news, she came to report it to Mu Xi Yao.
Mu Xi Yao thought that the two were truly like a soul of a deceased that didn't want to go away. How come the two have again became tangled up with each other, unable to separate? How many times was it over the course of these few days?
Quite contemplatingly, she asked, "What's the matter this time?" What was that woman Tang Yi Ru doing? Why did she just let that shu sister of hers act so impudently?
"Mistress, according to the imperial physician's words, shufei was overcome with anger. This together with an abrupt fright caused shufei to be unable to catch a breath, which as a result made her pass out."
Mu Xi Yao thought that based on the frequency of Tang shufei's fainting, this begonia flower was not far from turning to a little white flower1.
"That sister of hers," Zhao momo was very puzzled, "they said that when she was carried back, her whole body was drenched, frozen like an ice cube. After being diagnosed, the imperial physician said that she suffered from the chill and was also subjected to the cold wind. A slow nursing was necessary. If she didn't take proper care and neglected her health, it will affect her fertility in the future."
Mu Xi Yao felt like she was listening to a play. After waking up from a sleep, those two sisters went as far as to outrageously get into a fight. When she went further to ask the details, Zhao momo told her that his Highness forbid people to speak about the accident, saying that whoever dared to gossip will be immediately driven out.
That being the case, Mu Xi Yao dropped the matter, paying it no heed. Since Zhong Zheng Lin prohibited people from spreading the gossip about the accident, she will do what he said and act like she didn't know. It had nothing to do with her anyway. Even if she wanted to watch a play, she still had to wait for those two to wake up. She then called for people. They followed her to the garden where she went for a stroll, looked at her bonsai trees, played with koi fish, and, in passing, let out her two chubby rabbits to hop a bit. Mu Xi Yao found joy in her own way.
Zhong Zheng Lin was currently occupied by entertaining the guests. He had no time to think about irrelevant people. He dispatched people to sent a message to pick up cefei at the hour of Shen2 to attend a banquet.
As soon as Tang Yi Ru woke up, she heard Shu Mei tell her in detail what happened afterward. She became so infuriated she, on the spot, smashed the cup with medicine, wishing to choke to death that wench at the back. How can she not know now that she has fallen for her trap? She had actually used her as stepping stone in front of his Highness to climb up. What's more, that wench even succeeded.
The hate made Tang Yi Ru's face appear sinister, "How come that woman can still run outside? She could even run into the prince's residence to pay a New Year's call. She has clearly told people at home to coop that wench up. She was simply a scourge. If Tang Yi Ru had known it would come to this, she would have fixed her at the time, too.
Shu Mei didn't understand why her mistress was being this bitter. Hence, she could only answer carefully and tell her that his Highness had instructed for that one to be carried away as soon as she recuperates.
This time, Tang Yi Ru has cooled down a little bit. She snorted inside. If that wench wanted to enter the residence, she needed to first look whether his Highness would consent or not. Apparently, she used a wicker basket to draw water3. Serves her right!
Zhong Zheng Lin first held onto Mu Xi Yao and walked her to sit at consort Shu's palace for a while, and then went to pay respect to Empress Dowager together with the fourth prince and his party. Seeing Mu Xi Yao's swollen belly, Empress Dowager quickly told her to sit down. Afterward, she praised the New Year gifts she sent her, saying that they were very pleasing to one's eyes.
Each palace's imperial concubine and female members of the imperial princes one after the other arrived. For a moment, it was very lively at Empress Dowager's place. When Yuancheng Emperor came in, he saw everyone chatting fervently. A bit of satisfaction appeared on his face.
When the family feast began, Mu Xi Yao has already engaged in a round of social niceties with the womenfolk. Looking at the woman with big belly from afar who was skillful in dancing with long sleeves4, all smiles, he felt a little bit more at ease. He was most afraid that she would be restless with a pregnant body.
Empress Dowager listened to Mu Xi Yao's folk story with an interest. The rest of the people thus listened with keen interest as well. After she finished talking the story, Empress Dowager Jin used the opportunity of the cheerful atmosphere of the New Year and said that she would grace her with a reward. She let her take a look at three new vases in the palace and take back whichever she fancied.
This side with the female folk quietened for a moment. Many of the people present were envious and jealous. At the same time, they were curious what kind of vase would this cefei of the sixth Highness settle on.
The men in the front noticed that there was abruptly no sound coming from the back. They cast there curious glances, discovering that everyone at the back was watching attentively the sixth Highness's cefei, whispering at each other's ears in private.
Zhong Zheng Lin's heart tightened. Did the little woman throw a tantrum and offend people? This was a New Year's family feast. If Empress Dowager and Yuancheng Emperor got angry at her, the little woman will have a hard time.
He was a little far away. He could only see but not hear what they talked about with their mouths muffled by the handkerchieves.
Zhong Zheng Lin's expression became solemn. He corrected his sitting posture, his phoenix eyes fixed firmly on the silhouette of Mu Xi Yao who had her head bowed as if thinking deeply. Just as he intended to get up and apologize humbly on her behalf, he saw her lift head and reply few words to Empress Dowager, her little hand even stroked her belly.
At this time, Empress Dowager together with present womenfolk became stupified. Subsequently, they burst into laughter that made them sway back and forth. Empress Dowager even pointed at her and scolded her with a smile. She waved her hand and send two little eunuchs outside.
Seeing the lively atmosphere bustling with laughter, Yuancheng Emperor's curiosity became piqued. He quickly ordered people to inquire about the bottom of the matter. Not long after, the little eunuch returned and reported him the whole story: Mu cefei fancied none of the objects in the palace hall. Instead, she took a liking of barracuda fish kept in the garden's pond. In addition, she asked Empress Dowager whether it was possible to reward her more of pomfret to make good things come in pair.
When Yuancheng Emperor heard about it, his mind was flabbergasted. Soon, he broke into a hearty laugh. He openly cast Zhong Zheng Lin several teasing glances. Feeling cheerful, he told them to fish out more of the fish, so as that lady Mu won't be hungry and say the imperial household was stingy.
Zhong Zheng Lin's face twitched from Yuancheng Emperor's poking. He sat there rigidly. The discomfort on his face made Yuancheng Emperor amused.
After receiving obscure glances from his brothers, Zhong Zheng Lin still calmly held the tea and quietly took a sip from it. That woman made him being jested at. When they return back, he will fix her properly so she would learn from her mistakes. The fish back at home were already sufficiently scourged by her. Now she even started to have ideas about the ones in the palace. She indeed didn't see herself as an outsider.
Mu Xi Yao had not even the slightest idea that she was going to be fixed by the sixth Highness. She was still happily thanking for the grace and currying favor over there. The smiles that filled her face were so sweet it made people queasy.
Seeing Mu'shi receive Empress Dowager's rewards and amuse Empress Dowager into a cheerful mood, consort Shu felt comfortable inside. She thought that this cefei was quite capable. She could always make upper people grow fond of her.
Mu Xi Yao walked at the front along with her maidservants, her face beaming with happiness. Behind, two eunuchs were following her while carrying a cask filled with several big fish, their foreheads drenched with sweat.
At the distant, she spotted the man who was standing at the doorway to the garden, waiting for her. The corners of Mu Xi Yao's mouth lifted upward. Her eyes lit up.
"Your Highness, Empress Dowager has rewarded quite a lot of the sea fish tribute from the South Sea. How about eating fish tomorrow?" Her little face was full of excitement and expectation.
"Well. Very well." Zhong Zheng Lin's eyebrows smoothened. He captured the woman's hand and returned back to the residence.
The last day of the lunar year. Before Mu Xi Yao finished watching the night on the New Year's Eve5, she was taken to Shuangyan pool by Zhong Zheng Lin, subjected to his vigorous torture. When they returned back, he again used thousands of method and ten thousands of tricks to torment her. Even her delicate and coyly begs didn't work. In the end, it were her tiny sobbing calls of your Highness that made Zhong Zheng Lin roar lowly Jiao Jiao and let her off.
Lying on the bed, the considerate sixth Highness said that since Mu cefei was deeply fond of eating fish, giving her a big red pocket on the New Year would be inappropriate, better to change it to several groupers.
When Mu Xi Yao heard that her long-awaited new year money was swallowed up by this man, she immediately became infuriated. Her little foot greeted the man's body with a great force. She kept humping, venting her anger. Unable to calm down, she stretched her hand to pinch his flesh on the waist.
Zhong Zheng Lin wasn't bothered by that little strength of hers. He stroked the beauty's back, quite enjoying himself.
"Acting so passionate, Jiao Jiao certainly wants to be intimate with bendian."
Mu Xi Yao was so frightened she promptly recollected her foot and well-behaviedly leaned against the man's chest, curling up into a ball. Soon after, she sweetly fell asleep. Watching the woman being softly shrunk in his arms, Zhong Zheng Lin slowly closed his eyes, drawing the person into his arms and snuggling her close to his body.
On the first day of the New Year's day, everyone in the Danruo Courtyard noticed that Mu cefei was in a great mood. A dazzling smile engaged her face from the moment she opened the door and came out. Even her words carried liveliness.
Only Mo Lan knew that early this morning her mistress found a big red pocket under the pillow. A thick stack of banknotes was inside. Seeing the banknotes, her great mood kept up till now. She was indeed spoilt by his Highness. Before, she wasn't so money-grubbing.
Translation Notes:
[1] Little white flower is a Chinese slang used to describe someone who is pure and frail in appearance, but opposite inside, someone who uses her innocent appearance to get what she wants
[2] Hour of Shen – 3-5 PM
[3] Use a wicker basket to draw water is a Chinese idiom meaning wasted efforts
[4]skillful in dancing with long sleeves refers to someone who's good at socializing, great at diplomacy and thus easier to achieve success, socially active
[5] Watch night on the New Years Eve is a Chinese tradition of staying up all night to see the new year
48
On the second day of the lunar month, generally there weren't any visits in the palace. Everyone stayed in their quarters, taking proper rest. Mu Xi Yao was all relaxed as she has assigned down all of her works. In few days, she only needed to make some visits.
Zhong Zheng Lin read a secret report in the study. He sent people to ask Mu Xi Yao to come over as he planned to take her to the imperial garden for a stroll in a little while.
Having received the message, just as Mu Xi Yao was about to go out, Zhao momo came in and told her that Tang shufei's family came and was currently waiting outside.
Mu Xi Yao paused for a moment. Lady Tang's family was all acting like this? Turn up without asking?
Puzzled inside, she told her to let people inside. However, there wasn't only one person walking in. The one taking the lead was a dignifiedly attired madam, following her behind was a bit younger woman. She looked like the sort of concubine. At the rear were following two servant girls.
Mu Xi Yao's mind pondered. She understood the two's identities.
"Qieshen1 pays respect to cefei." Madam Tang's complexion didn't look good. However, her etiquette was faultless. After curtsying, she called the rest to greet Mu Xi Yao. As expected, the woman behind was Tang Hui Ru's birth mother. The concubine of Tang household, lady Zhao.
"It's a New Year. Just make yourself at home. The two of you came at this time to make a visit to Shuhui courtyard?" Mu Xi Yao courteously asked out her speculation. What kind of thing would make them hurry visit early in the morning of the first lunar day?
Madam Tang looked at lady Zhao hatefully. She was too embarrassed to open her mouth, "Our shu daughter was ill-mannered and has offended the noble one. It must have brought inconveniences to you. Already yesterday, shufei has sent home a letter, asking qie to come and pick the person as soon as possible."
Tang Yi Ru's letter was filled with great anger. She only wrote that Tang Hui Ru had a corrupted moral character. She has run to the imperial prince's estate to seduce his Highness, degrading their family's principles. As soon as sir Tang saw his daughter's letter, he was outraged. Wasn't their family becoming a joke to others? Taking the opportunity of the fact that their family scandal hasn't yet spread out, he immediately went to pick that brainless daughter of his home to give her a lecture.
When madam Tang received the words from sir Tang, she right away went to reprimand lady Zhao. Afterward, she quickly took the person and, with a thick skin, rushed over to pick Tang Hui Ru. She felt deeply embarrassed at the moment, so it was no wonder her complexion looked so bad.
Mu Xi Yao nodded slightly. Inwardly, she approved with Tang Yi Ru's nimble methods. If this entanglement went on, who knew how many days it would take that Tang Hui Ru to be willing to "nurse back to health" and leave?
Since Tang household found her, Mu Xi Yao needed to properly handle this matter as cefei. As a result, she took the people and went to Shuhui courtyard.
This was Mu Xi Yao's first time stepping into Tang Yi Ru's courtyard. It was very ordinary. However, compared to the little courtyards of those concubines, it was much better. At least, it had a small garden and a pond.
First, she went to visit the convalescing lady Tang, and conveniently she waited in her room for Tang Hui Ru to be carried over and taken away. Everyone politely engaged in a conversation on the surface. Yet, unexpectedly, a woman's low sob sounded from outside.
When lady Zhao heard the sound, she immediately stood up and worriedly looked at the doorway. Just one look at the person lying on the soft chair who was being carried in made the rim of her eyes redden.
Looking at the old and young two women weeping disconsolately on each other's shoulder, Mu Xi Yao's head abruptly felt big2. Crying like who knows what at someone else's estate on the New Year, didn't they even mind it would bring them bad luck?
She drew near hand warmer. The mistress of Tang Household was still present, she was unlikely to get as muddle-headed as them.
Sure enough. Madam Tang's expression stiffened. Though she pacified them on the outside, she also urged the servant girls to support them up and take them back to the estate. Tang Yi Ru lied on the bed, her face turning purple. She felt like being humiliated in front of the outsider. Wasn't this like stretching face over and let other people to slap it? She hurriedly called Shue Mei and Shu Tao to assist them.
Since it wasn't appropriate to openly watch the lot of them getting in a great mess, Mu Xi Yao stood up, intending to take leave.
Unexpectedly, when that Tang Hui Ru saw she was about to leave, she abruptly shook off the servant girls and rolled down from the soft chair. As soon as she pushed up from the ground, she started to weep while kowtowing, saying that she was too ashamed to live. She asked cefei to decide her fate.
It has never crossed Mu Xi Yao's mind that this matter would have something to do with her. Suddenly hearing Tang Hui Ru asking her to make the call, her brain was a little overwhelmed.
Mu Xi Yao sat back and ordered everyone to quieten. Her expression was very placid as she looked at the woman who was still kowtowing. She unhurriedly opened her mouth and started to question her.
"Miss Tang doesn't have to be like this. Nevertheless, speak as you stand up." She eyed Mo Lan to help her up. "What's the matter that needs Ben cefei to determine for you?" Your Di mother and birth mother were all present. In addition, Tang Yi Ru was lying on the bed while glaring at her like a tiger watching its prey. Yet, she turned to her.
Tang Hui Ru didn't brush away Mo Lan's hand. She obediently stood up and was brought to a soft chair. After sitting down, she slowly opened her mouth to speak sobbingly.
It was good that this woman didn't open her mouth. Once she did, her tears poured down like a rainfall. She kept on wiping tears before even finishing a whole sentence. Her left hand held on her chest like she was about to pass out from the crying.
Seeing the woman playing tricks again, Tang shufei promptly interrupted her sobs. She ordered Shu Mei to take away the person and leave. Subsequently, she turned to Mu Xi Yao and explained, "We've made cefei watch a spectacle. Qie's sister is squeamish. She has fallen to the water so it's natural for her to be frightened. The scare made her mind muddled. Qie hopes cefei won't be mindful of her. "
She didn't even finish her words, that Tang Hui Ru has already struggled off from Shu Mei and fell down on the ground with a bang.
"Replying to cefei, this common woman is too ashamed to see people. This common woman already had a skin relationship3 with his Highness. If this common woman left palace like this, this common woman would live in shame."
Once Tang Hui Ru's words fell, everyone in the room stilled while looking at her, dumbfounded. Each of Tang Hui Ru's words were spoken crystal clear, carrying firmness and resolution which left no room for others to doubt they have misheard.
Mu Xi Xao's hands that were holding the hand warmer slightly paused. She narrowed her eyes and looked at that kneeling woman, very surprised inside.
Having a skin relationship? With Zhong Zheng Lin? How come she didn't know even the slightest bit about it? She then looked at Tang Yi Ru, only to see her also being flabbergasted. The corners of her mouth were trembling. She was so infuriated her one hand pointed at Tang Hui Ru, unable to utter a word.
Lady Zhao had a weak-willed nature. As soon as she heard her daughter's words, she followed her example and also fell on the ground. With a wah, she started to weep. She lamented to heaven and knocked her head on the ground, wanting Mu Xi Yao to seek justice for her.
Madam Tang was so enraged she went up to clutch her hair right on the spot about to beat her, but she was persuaded by the servant girls at her back. Madam Tang breathed heavily, crying that misfortune has befallen their family to give birth to such a shameless daughter.
Mo Lan nervously looked at her master, afraid that even her mistress wouldn't be able to stand this sudden blow. If an unexpected accident occurred and something happened to the child in her womb… Mo Lan scared herself into a cold sweat. She quickly went to stand by her side and was about to help Mu Xi Yao up and leave in advance. However, looking at her calm face, she didn't dare to make a rush move.
Watching the people in the room cry and fuss into a mess, Mu Xi Yao's face turned cold. She was no more polite with them. With a bang, she lay down teacup. This has made everyone pull themselves together.
"You claim that you had a skin relationship with his Highness? When did it happen?" Mu Xi Yao was very calm. She thought it was better to get it clear first.
"Replying to cefei. It happened on the night of the twenty-ninth day." Mu Xi Yao reminisced. Wasn't it the night when Zhong Zheng Lin didn't return back to the chamber? Could it be that…..before she could think it over, she again heard Tang Hui Ru complain tearfully, "His Highness has seen this common woman's body. If this common woman left palace like this, who would be willing to have such an unchaste woman?"
This time, madam Tang couldn't hold up her dignity anymore. After uttering "Despicable!" she directly fainted out from the great anger. This scared the servant girls. They quickly went to press her philtrum4 and stroke her chest.
Tang Yi Ru subsequently smashed over a jade scepter. Tang Hui Ru dodged with a frightened shriek. Lady Zhao was scared witless. She only knew to cover her face and cry loudly.
Mu Xi Yao's horizon was broadened greatly by looking at this trouble-making family.
"Shut it up all of you!" Mu Xi Yao angrily rebuked, slamming a teacup ferociously twice in a row. Looking at the messy woman underneath, her eyes narrowed. She said with a cold tone, "This matter will be determined after asking his Highness." She secretly massaged her aching little hand.
She then turned to look at heavily breathing madam Tang and lady Zhao, "Today, the two of you shall take miss Tang back to the estate first." Her attitude was unyielding, allowing no room for refuffing.
Subsequently, she looked at Tang Hui Ru, "Miss Tang ought to set the mind on recuperating first. The healthy body is a priority. Everything else can be said after." Seeing her still not willing to comply, Mu Xi Yao's tone grew a bit colder, her expression solemn, "His Highness is a dignified imperial prince. Do you think he would refuse to admit his deeds? If there was truly such thing, the prince's estate will, without a doubt, justify you." When Mu Xi Yao said these words, Tang Hui Ru was unwillingly carried out. However, seeing the stubbornness in her eyes, Mu Xi Yao naturally wouldn't believe that this woman would stay silent.
Once the room quietened, Mu Xi Yao turned and told Tang Yi Ru to take a good rest and not think too much. Inside, she was very clear that lady Tang will probably be sick for a while. After being angered by this troublesome sister successively for several days, it would be hard for her to not overthink.
Today, Tang Yi Ru must have wanted to quickly drive the person out as soon as possible. Yet, she didn't predict Tang Hui Ru would be so crazy and claim publicly before many people that the sixth Highness had touched her body without a care for her reputation. She indeed met an exotic flower.
Tang shufei's sharp knife had no usefulness. Instead, it had accomplished Tang Hui Ru's desire to climb up the ladder.
Once these Tang sisters were put to a comparison, well, the one who cared about her dignity suffered a loss and the one who didn't care for the reputation, on the contrary, was waiting at home hoping for wealth and ranks.
Mu Xi Yao secretly felt pity as it seemed that today she was unable to take a tour around the imperial garden.
Translation Notes:
[1]Qieshen is a first-person pronoun used by married women, meaning "This consort"
[2] Head feel big is a Chinese phrase meaning to have a headache
[3] Skin to skin relationship means a close physical relationship
[4] Press one's philtrum – when one passes out, we're advised to 掐 his 人中, which can help him to regain consciousness
49
When Mu Xi Yao arrived to the front with her people, she discovered that Zhong Zheng Lin was already waiting in the courtyard. He was attired in the blue-green gown, handsomely standing there, his prominently defined side profile cold and solemn.
Such a man, with status, power, and looks. It was no wonder that people would have ideas about him. Mu Xi Yao curled her lips.
"Your Highness," she slowly walked toward him. While watching the man soften his expression, Mu Xi Yao opened her mouth to verify Tang Hui Ru's claims.
"On the night of the twenty-ninth, your Highness didn't return back to the chamber. Have you encountered that Tang Hui Ru or seen her body?"
Momo said that Tang sisters were carried back to the house. Afterward, the imperial physician came to make diagnosis. It was impossible for them to come into contact. So, it was before that?
Mu Xi Yao thought of the classical scene between a sister-in-law and older sister's husband. Her heart trembled.
Wei Zhen originally stood at the side. Hearing cefei inquire in such a bold manner, he was too scared to stay there any longer. He took two steps backward and retreated.
Wei Zhen still remembered that night. His Highness was extremely angry at the time.
Zhong Zheng Lin was originally waiting for her. Unexpectedly, not only the person came late, as soon as she arrived she began to interrogate him.
Did she put him into her eyes or not1? Unable to keep his cool, his expression gradually turned bad.
Even though Zhong Zheng Lin was fond of Mu Xi Yao's frankness, he still wasn't fond of it to the point she could so bluntly embarrass him and he still had to bear it with delight. No matter how he indulged her, he was still the dignified imperial prince of Great Wei. How could he allow his women to shame him?
Seeing his expression change, Mu Xi Yao thought there was indeed such matter. As a result, she faithfully performed duties of cefei: listened to the instruction of the sixth Highness and then made a decision about whether to take the person as a concubine or not.
"Your Highness, this matter was made known to everyone now. Does your Highness have any plans?" Mu Xi Yao inquired earnestly.
Looking at Mu Xi Yao's half perplexed and half certain little face, Zhong Zheng Lin's chest ached out of anger.
He had clearly promised her the eldest son, how would it be possible for him to let a new branch grow out of a knot2 during her pregnancy?
Apart from Danruo courtyard, he went nowhere else. Even so, he still received only her doubt, unable to make her trust him wholeheartedly.
Zhong Zheng Lin's face was as cold as frost, his tone severe. For the first time, he has admonished Mu Xi Yao in front of the servants.
"What kind of impudence are you uttering? Who are you to question whether bendian has done the deed or not?" This man's assertive and overbearing personality flared up. Hence, his tone became even more unyielding.
Having his anger directed at her, Mu Xi Yao's expression changed slightly. As she watched the man's fierce appearance, she instantly silenced, speaking no more.
Mu Xi Yao listened to the man's tone and then looked at his expression. He didn't seem to be flying into a rage out of the humiliation. Instead, it looked like he was very discontented with her?
Mu Xi Yao contemplated for a moment, then nodded, "Qie understands."
She was to blame for not being cautious. She was used to do as she wished. As a result, she has forgot this man's identity. Big Boss must feel she has meddled too much.
Due to the differences of the two's understanding, Mu Xi Yao absolutely didn't catch the main point. She misunderstood the cause of Zhong Zheng Lin's anger. She directly attributed the trust problems to power and responsibility issues.
She raised her head and gave him a tiny smile, trying to alleviate the mood, "Does your Highness still want to go to the imperial garden?" Since she couldn't interfere with this matter, how about changing the subject?
Zhong Zheng Lin has just been angered by her. Yet, in a blink of eyes, this woman has suddenly changed to a smiling face. He truly wasn't as good-tempered as her. He flung his sleeves and entered the study, saying not even a word.
Mu Xi Yao stared at departing back of Zhong Zheng Lin. After gazing at the tightly closed doors of the study for a while, she took people and returned back.
Mo Lan felt anxious. She was afraid that her master wouldn't be able to bear his Highness's chide since she has always been pampered. If she took this matter to heart and bore anger, it certainly wouldn't be good for the child.
Just as she was going to give her master a bit of comfort, she discovered her master looked as if nothing happened. She swayed back to Danruo courtyard and played the zither, read books, fed the rabbits as before.
Mu Xi Yao was, without doubt, fine. She thought it was a matter of course Zhong Zheng Lin would occasionally engage in love-affairs.
Which Emperor wasn't blessed with women and surrounded by beauties?
From the first day of learning the existence of Zhong Zheng Lin, she understood what kind of life she would face in the future. Nowadays it was only a little Tang Hui Ru. Mu Xi Yao didn't put her into the eyes at all. After all, what she asked for was never all of the Zhong Zheng Lin.
To make it sound a little unpleasant, Mu Xi Yao always carried a materialistic mindset while schemed step by step to this day, to gain Zhong Zheng Lin's favor.
Compared to the overnight favor, she cared more about being special in Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes. And to make a man think you're unique among the many women, you need to tax your mind and exert a great effort. Beside the favor, you also need to have his respect.
Now it seems that she didn't grasp the situation well and went over the line with her efforts. If one wanted to receive other's respect one needed to first respect other's wishes.
When Zhong Zheng Lin has reprimanded her just now, he must have meant she meddled too much in his business and overstepped. As cefei, though she had to take action and manage the affairs in the estate and the inner yard, she still had no right to handle the imperial prince's matters. As he said, whether he has done it or not, it was a matter of course. The others had no right to question him.
In a flash, Mu Xi Yao readjusted the train of thoughts according to her comprehension. Since boss daren3 thinks this cannot do, then it has to be changed. Just as if your supervisor was saying that he wasn't satisfied with your project. You could only promptly replan and write the new one.
Mu Xi Yao instantly made an adjustment to her road to the beloved consort based on Zhong Zheng Lin's preferences. His sixth Highness was fond of well-behaved women. In that case, from now on, she mustn't display too much of familiarity nor bad temper to him, just like how one behaved differently with family and with a close relatives. As for home flowers and grasses in the estate and wildflowers and grasses from outside the estate, they were all the principal consort's business. She needn't bother with them.
After figuring out these points, Mu Xi Yao's heart relaxed. She felt her future outlook became even more clear and good.
Inside the room, Zhong Zheng Lin opened the book and his sight halted on the page for a long time. He hasn't moved for half an hour.
He sighed and threw the book to the side. Shortly afterward, he suddenly remembered that woman mentioned by Mu Xi Yao. Only icy coldness was left in his phoenix eyes. Was it that annoying suicidal one who had the impertinence to run to Danruo courtyard and spurt nonsenses?
He made a hand signal, indicating the secret agent to investigate the matter. The sixth Highness lifted up the writing brush to practice calligraphy, in order to calm his mind.
In the noon, they've separately used the meal. Mu Xi Yao went to rest while Zhong Zheng Lin was reading the secret report in the study. Very marvelous, indeed.
According to Great Wei's convention, if Tang Hui Ru was set on implicating him, then she could be considered as having lost her chastity. However, only two families were involved. Directly having their lips kept sealed will do. Zhong Zheng Lin ordered Tian Fu Shan to pass a message to Tang House, strictly prohibiting them to leak the things about this matter. As for that woman, she was free to marry off as she had nothing to do with him.
He then recalled the scene of Mu Xi Yao coming over to question him in the morning. Could it be that she thought he had bed the other woman while she was pregnant?
The sixth Highness firmly believed Mu cefei was feeling jealous. Suddenly, he thought it was pardonable. He has, apparently, has acted too severely.
Zhong Zheng Lin felt amused and vexed. If he wanted to sleep with a woman, why would he wait till now? However, this kind of behavior was inappropriate. The women in the estate would only increase in the future. She was so impetuous, acting according to her temper. If she was being punished by the principal consort, could it be that he even had to find a reason to excuse her, embarrassing thus the principal consort?
Zhong Zheng Lin felt that he still had to go over in a moment and have a good talk with Mu Xi Yao. According to her brightness, she ought to accept his kind reminder.
"Your Highness?" Watching Zhong Zheng Lin enter the room, Mu Xi Yao ordered Hui Lan to serve tea. With a smile engaging her face, she said, "Your Highness is already free today?"
Zhong Zheng Lin originally thought the little woman would be peeved. He didn't expect it wouldn't be that case at all. She was as delicate as usual. Even her reply was soft, pleasant to one's ears. Her attitude was very gentle. It was as if the unpleasant incident in the morning didn't happen.
"You…." Zhong Zheng Lin began and then swallowed back the words on the tip of his tongue.
"What's the matter, your Highness?" Seeing the rare hesitation cross the man's face, she guessed inwardly: Could it be he was waiting for her to give him a ladder to step down4 to eliminate their discord in the morning?
She snickered inside. Such a small thing, yet he couldn't be frank with it. This man was indeed an aojiao.
"Does your Highness want to talk about the incident in the morning? Qie has thought about it. Qie was in the wrongs. Qie can guarantee there won't be next time." Mu Xi Yao openly admittedher mistake. That attitude of hers was so sincere that all that missed there was the part where she would be beating her chest and taking an oath.
Her broad-mindedness made Zhong Zheng Lin not know how to open his mouth. As a result, he could only let it go and not mention it. Only, inside the heart, he had a faint feeling that something seemed to be amiss.
Mu Xi Yao admitted her wrongs. The two were very harmonious, as usual. They could be often seen practicing calligraphy and playing the chess, fishing and strolling in the garden. Everyone in the Danruo courtyard could finally be at ease. They secretly thought their mistress was wise. She knew to admit defeat in advance, earning his Highness's favor. She didn't suffer a big loss for a little gain.
However, what everyone didn't know was that Mu Xi Yao walked further and further away on a strange road. She only thought of catering to the boss's attitude according to her own understanding of the matter, advancing steadily on her path to pampered consort.
That kind of a nice mutual interaction was completely overlooked by Mu Xi Yao. She just thought it was the indicator of his good mood. This also made her completely omit the existence of the emotional aspect and thus failing to recognize Zhong Zheng Lin's feelings.
The following close interaction between Mu Xi Yao and the sixth Highness was like a scheduled program. There was not even the slightest bit of a mishap, becoming increasingly harmonious and amenable.
Translation Notes:
[1] Put somebody into the eyes is a Chinese phrase meaning regarding someone importantly
[2] A new branch growing out of a knot is a Chinese idiom; fig. side issues keep arising
[3] Daren means sir, lord
[4] Give one a ladder to step down is fig. way out of an embarrassing situation
50
The following few days of the first lunar year, Mu Xi Yao traveled back and forth between various palaces and residences. She was busy meeting those arriving and sending those departing1.
Tang Hui Ru was also busy with a hunger strike at home, fighting against sir Tang. She threatened that if they wished to drive her to death, they might as well turn Tang House's family scandal into the whole Shengjin's joke.
Sir Tang was hopping mad at this crazy shu daughter of his. Yet, at the same time, he was afraid of Tang Hui Ru's unscrupulousness.
When he thought of his Highness's interdict, he felt that if this matter caused a big disturbance, not only would Tang House lose face, his sixth Highness would also be implicated. Rather than have his Highness take his anger out on them, he might as well listen to his Highness and do as he said.
Zhong Zheng Lin was receiving his subordinate officials in the estate when he heard a letter from Tang House was delivered. His brows creased slightly. He took out the letter and had a look. That Tang Hui Ru's intention to hitch a ride to the sky on the dragon and phoenix2 was as plain as day. Her mouth firmly refused to let go of innocence, yet she would rather become a concubine in the inner yard than be the principal wife of a common household. Zhong Zheng Lin was greatly disgusted with this kind of woman. On the spot, he wrote a letter where he ordered to have people send her off Shengjin.
Sitting in the carriage and watching the city gate within reach, Tang Hui Ru knew that if she continued waiting,she would completely lose all hope. Her previous painstaking efforts would be put into the torch3. Even more terrible thing was that she has fallen out of grace with her family. If she left Shengjin, even her last backing would probably be lost.
Tang Hui Ru made up her mind. She cut off her means of retreat. Lifting the carriage screen, she leaped and jumped out from the slow-moving carriage. Hearing the noise, the driver in the front turned his head, only to discover that their miss, like being mad, supported her leg and run back limply. As he was going to turn around and chase after her, he heard miss shout loudly "A hideous bandit." She even turned to point at him, fleeing along the street.
That driver instantly panicked as he was being watched by the surrounding people. He only managed to quickly rush back to Tang House to notify sir Tang. How would he dare to follow Tang Hui Ru and take her away?
Zhong Zheng Lin was in the middle of sorting out the news sent from each estate in the study when he heard Tian Fu Shan announce that miss Tang was kneeling outside the palace, seeking an audience from cefei.
Zhong Zheng Lin made a snort. A disdain appeared on his face. He mused for a moment and then ordered Tian Fu Shan to go and ask cefei to step in and take care of this matter. According to the little woman's personality, people who dared to play tricks and throw a fit in front of her absolutely won't get the fruitful outcome they desired.
When Mu Xi Yao received the news, looking at the pleading woman before her, she lazily lifted her hand to support her chin. Her other hand pinched a sour date and send it to her mouth.
"You claim his Highness is the only option?"
"Replying to cefei. This common woman has already lost chastity. How can this common woman secretly hide this fact and marry someone else? If the prince's estate refuses to take this common woman then this common woman would rather accompany an oil lamp before the statue of Buddha4." Tang Hui Ru mourned and covered her face to weep bitterly.
Mu Xi Yao looked at the woman on the ground and shook her head repeatedly. She has exerted so much effort and in the end, she can still declare she would accompany an oil lamp before the statue of Buddha? Aren't you afraid that Buddha would dislike you, seeing your dishonest heart?
This woman desperately wished to enter the estate only because she was envious of that/illusory favor and honor. She even went as far as to make a disturbance before the palace gate. She indeed deserved praise for her courage.
"In that case, enter the estate and become a concubine." Mu Xi Yao let Hui Lan help her wash her hands while she made this nonchalant promise.
She cared not about Tang Hui Ru's glee nor Zhao momo and other's incredulous expressions. Mu Xi Yao only had people reply to Zhong Zheng Lin that everything was straightened out. Afterward, she went to study.
Last time, it was exactly because of the matter regarding this woman entering the estate that has made Zhong Zheng Lin blame her for crossing the line.
This time, she specially chose a not misbehaved decision. Since Boss didn't say no, she would let her in as a way of disposing this matter.
As long as they were women and she had to handle them, then, she would take all of them in.
She, Mu cefei, won't take the slightest bit of action to prevent any number of women from entering the estate. The imperial prince's estate didn't lack money. Keeping thirty or fifty women was not a big deal. As for whether they were good or bad, it was for the principal consort to take care of.
As for Tang Hui Ru, it was quite interesting. She wondered how Tang shufei would react when she learnt of this. Mu Xi Yao was actually happy to see Tang Yi Ru unhappy.
She spread the writing paper, lifted the brush and stained it with ink, quietly copying the handwritten copy of Liu Gong Quan. For a moment, her mind was completely concentrated on her activity.
When Zhong Zheng Lin received the reply, his hand that was holding hu brush5 abruptly halted. He put aside the brush and paper. His gaze lingered on the paperweight, staying silent for a long time.
Was she so certain he was disgusted with Tang Hui Ru and wouldn't take fancy on to her or she simply didn't feel like taking the trouble and disposed the matter by taking her in? Zhong Zheng Lin was very unhappy that Mu Xi Yao has personally taken in a concubine for him. Yet, he was unable to reprimand her for her independent decision.
This time, it was him who had let her make a decision. However, he didn't expect that woman wouldn't have even the tiniest bit of the oppressive air she had when questioning him, that she would be unexpectedly this generous and damned amiable.
Zhong Zheng Lin leaned back against the rear of the chair and crossed his arms in front of his chest. His eyes were so deep it was frightening.
Tian Fu Shan silently bowed his head. Knowing that his Highness has agreed tacitly with cefei's decision, he quietly withdrew from the room.
He wiped the sweat that had oozed out. The chief steward more and more couldn't understand cefei.
Just a moment ago, his Highness was unhappy. Did the two again have a discord?
However, following after, what Tian Fu Shan worried about didn't happen. Those two played chess, painted a drawing, went for a stroll in each other's company just as before. On the surface, nothing has changed. Mu Xi Yao's delicate laughter and Zhong Zheng Lin's teasing could be still frequently heard from Danruo courtyard.
Like this, they've got through the New Year's festival. With a little sedan chair, little lady Tang was sent to the estate by Tang House.
Mu Xi Yao delicately pushed at Zhong Zheng Lin's big mischievous hand. Quite virtuously, she reminded him that a newcomer has entered the estate and he ought to shift the place. Her beautiful pair of wandering eyes appeared lovable and charming.
Zhong Zheng Lin's gentle expression immediately sank. He stared at Mu Xi Yao and examined her for a long while. Afterward, he casually coiled a strand of her hair and wrapped it around his index finger, playing with it. His expression was lazy and focused, saying nothing about this matter.
Mu Xi Yao suffered internal injuries. It was more and more difficult to serve this man. He changed his face as fast as flipping a book. Furthermore, from time to time he would play with her a "you guess" game.
Facing such an unstable Zhong Zheng Lin, Mu Xi Yao felt deeply worried.
For instance, at the moment, shouldn't be he, the sixth Highness, casually poking fun at her and she, Mu cefei, would then seize the opportunity to softly pester him to stay. Wasn't the mode of their previous interaction just like that?
Although Zhong Zheng Lin's expression was gentle, the deep meaning in Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes forced Mu Xi Yao to give him a plausible explanation.
"Isn't qie just reluctant to part with your Highness? If qie isn't with your Highness, qie won't sleep well." Her little lip pouted as if resentful for her thought to have exposed.
However, inwardly she tried to figure out Zhong Zheng Lin's intention. Was this his new hobby? Taking pleasure in watching her attachment to him in order to satisfy the man's desire to conquer?
Just as Mu Xi Yao was making a quick calculation inside the heart, Zhong Zheng Lin took her hand in a good-natured manner and entered the inner room, instructing to settle down.
Mu Xi Yao was inexplicably coaxed to sleep early. What she didn't know was Zhong Zheng Lin watched her sleeping face till the third geng until he went to rest.
On the following day, little lady Tang served tea. The sixth Highness didn't even lift his lid. He acted like he didn't see the teacup held above her head.
Mu Xi Yao's face twitched. She could only defuse the situation by taking the offered tea. Afterward, she said some pleasantry words and rewarded her hairpin. The ceremony could be then considered as completed.
Little lady Tang's face lit up with delight. She felt no disappointment that his Highness has left her to face the lonely chamber.
She was well aware that in this inner yard she wasn't the only one who was a virgin. Thus, it wasn't a shameful thing to her. Currently, the priority was to think of how to gain his Highness's favor.
As expected, following the New Year, Yuancheng Emperor carried out a vigorous purge in the troops stationed in the Mobei and military of three provinces in Jibei. He repeatedly relieved the garrison, transferred the troops and even dispatched the reserve battalion of military inspection unit straight from Shengjin to rush to the northern borders, intending to replace the decadent official in the army with young military officials.
Mu Xi Yao's elder brother Mu Jin Zhi followed directives of the transferring. He was being transferred from Muzhou garrison barracks to the capital's reserve battalion of military inspection unit. His official post of the seventh rank deputy commander was promoted to the fifth rank company commander.
When Mu Xi Yao received the letter, she only replied to him that he must stay at reserve camp with peace of mind. In addition, he ought to seize the opportunity to gain Yuan Qi Zhao's recognition.
Mu Jin Zhi was an upright and hot-blooded man. Mu Xi Yao had no other choice than pick for him Yuan Qi Zhao who suited his temperament more and give up upon Ye Huai Wen whom she appreciated more. After all, if he stayed by Ye Huai Wen' side, he would need to use more of resourcefulness to prevail opponent. He would have to hold back his temper and wait for the right opportunity. Unfortunately, Mu Jin Zhi apparently lacked that kind of insight and patience.
After sending the letter, Mu Xi Yao contently nurtured her fetus till the sixth month. Her belly showed an evident bulge. Her steps weren't as nimble as before. Yet, she still insisted on going to the courtyard every day to fiddle with flowers and bonsai, feeding koi fish and raise rabbits.
This day, Chun Lan hesitantly approached Mu Xi Yao who was appreciating flowers, "Master, this servant has just heard the news of his Highness going to Shuhui courtyard to listen to a zither play."
Mu Xi Yao's gaze slightly paused. She only gave a slight nod, indicating that she was aware of it. Afterward, she continued to arrange the branches and leaves.
Zhong Zheng Lin still rests in Danruo courtyard every day. Apart from staying overnight at the study due to busy official matters, there was not even once he went to other places. Yet, he went now to Shuhui courtyard to listen to zither as soon as he returned to the inner yard?
Was it a momentary impulse or has her secret hint, the "for the time being" from his previous promise "as you wish, for the time being" already lost effectiveness?
Mu Xi Yao stroked her seven-month pregnant belly. During the last trimester, she couldn't engage in bedroom intimacies anymore. It was reasonable that Zhong Zheng Lin would have other thoughts. It seems that the period of her solitary pampering came to an end and she was about to join the ranks of the women striving for the favor.
Moreover, recently Zhong Zheng Lin's gaze became increasingly weird. Mu Xi Yao was a little unable to withstand the gaze. She constantly felt that it had deep meaning behind them. Every time she inquired, the man would avoid talking about it. Could it be that that unfathomable gaze was the so-called "being fed up with" from the legend?
Mu cefei pondered a little in Danruo courtyard. She thought that it was an unavoidable process. Only keeping one's distance could ensure longevity. Facing each other day by day, even she would feel bored.
In a very natural way, she fixed her recent goal to "keeping a small effort to maintain before birth, coming back to strive for a favor after the birth". In addition, she ordered that people in Danruo courtyard were prohibited from provoking a quarrel and engage in gossips. They were to steadily run their errands.
On the other side, though Zhong Zheng Lin's person was in Shuhui courtyard, his mind was, however, recalling what people were laughing over at Ju Xian House.
Translation Notes:
[1] Meeting arriving and sending departing is a Chinese phrase meaning entertaining the guests
[2] To hitch a ride to the sky on the dragon and phoenix is a Chinese idiom meaning to curry favor with the rich and powerful in the hope of advancement
[3] Put into a torch is a Chinese idiom meaning all for naught
[4] Accompany an oil lamp before the statue of Buddha means entering the temple and accompany Budha, become a nun
[5] Hu brush is a Huzhou ink brush