66
When Zhong Zheng Lin arrived to the main house of Danruo courtyard, Mo Lan apologized and led him to the warm room1. in the side palace hall.
He waved his hand and pushed the door open. There were two red candlesticks of human waist's height in the room. The whole interior was illuminated by their dim light. On the place of the seat of honor were only a coach-bed and a long narrow table. On top of them were prepared a space heater and cooked wine.
Mo Lan attended him with the hand-washing. Afterward, she withdrew silently. Zhong Zheng Lin was left alone, lying sideways on the coach-bed while his left hand held a wine cup, taking a tiny sip of the wine.
The man stretched his legs and enjoyed a cup of wine by himself, very patient.
In a quiet hall, a drum beating sounded out very abruptly. It was intense and vivid.
Zhong Zheng Lin's phoenix eyes were shining, until the moment an astounding figure reflected on the screen amid the music. Abruptly, his pupils constricted and his heartbeat stopped.
The woman in the front was attired in a golden dance dress, moving inside in an extremely quick rhythm. She was like first rays of the morning sun that split through the darkness, coming out in all of her splendor.
Her upper garment consisted of a narrow sequined bandeau. Under her navel, a beaded belt with a bell adornment embellished her hips. Her bottom was made up of a long high-slit muslin skirt which partly hid her jade-like legs. The feet that would, from time to time, reveal from the skirt were translucent and bare. Furthermore, a jingle bell bracelet strung on the fair ankle of hers would make a noise with her every move.
Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes seemed to burn with fire as he watched woman's abnormally provocative attire. He stared tenaciously at her enticing face that could be vaguely seen behind the face veil.
Under the black eyeliner, Mu Xi Yao's beautiful eyes were able to take one's breath and make them captivated. Her bright red lips were plump and alluring, able to stir the men's blood-thirstiness and wild nature.
The movements of the little woman's bare feet were accompanied by tinkling sounds of bells. At once, the music began to play.
Her slender waist moved in gyrating fashion, lifting and dropping her hips. The dance was both passionate and overflowing with enthusiasm.
The dancer's uninhibited and free soul was like a little bird that was about to meet a violent storm, a flame that burnt without fear, a free-flowing stream.
This was Mu Xi Yao whom Zhong Zheng Lin has never seen before. She was dazzling and shined in all her beauty. Like a pearl that illuminated a bright light unbridled by any scruple. This kind of woman was the real Mu Xi Yao – so proud and unshackled, so confident there was no room for others to question her.
The woman was seldomly seductive and seldomly provocative. Her smooth and fair legs would, from time to time, peek out from under the muslin skirt. As she danced, her coquettish glances gradually became blurred. Watching her, his heartstring was deeply touched.
Zhong Zheng Lin looked at the vivid figure at the front. He watched her let herself go and dance, drop all the restraints.
In this lifetime, if he couldn't conquer such an unrivaled Mu Xi Yao, Zhong Zheng Lin won't be content.
The man threw away the wine-cup and suddenly rose to a sitting position. His phoenix eyes lit with a bright light that shined like stars.
"Jiao Jiao, come over." The man's voice was deep and carried a spell.
Mu Xi Yao slightly opened her eyelids. She swung her waist and winded around him like a water snake.
Mu Xi Yao hasn't danced lambada for quite a while. Today, she had a great time crazing around.
Her uncurbed light brushes and caresses made his whole body throb with desire. Yet, he was unable to tear himself away from the woman's rare initiative, of her climbing and winding around him on her own accord. He could only sit upright and restrain himself as he watched the woman's resplendent passion that was unfolded before his eyes.
Mu Xi Yao danced to her heart's content. She couldn't stand seeing Zhong Zheng Lin's level-headedness and graceful manners. She raised her jade-like fair foot and, in a second, made way through the man's hem, reaching to the tip of his hotness. She softly rubbed and twisted her foot against it.
Zhong Zheng Lin's abdomen muscles went taut. Watching the prominent curves under the dress, just a mere suggestion made his mind captivated by that lovely allure.
Mu Xi Yao still wasn't satisfied. With a hook of her finger, the loosely tied muslin skirt, in a split second, floated down, leaving her only with two thin straps fastened on the hip and a narrow and small cloth that covered her intimate parts.
Mu Xi Yao's shocking provocation stirred Zhong Zheng so much that he was unable to sit calmly anymore. His breathing became chaotic. He reached out to grab the person.
"Your Highness," Mu Xi Yao protested coquettishly and dodged his hands. Then, she made matter worse by brushing softly her slender jade-like finger against her chest. The man's Adam's apple bobbed as he watched her. His fingers were clenched into a fist.
The woman's foot didn't cease its action. Her two hands pulled at her back. The bright golden-colored top slipped down in the blink of an eye, leaving behind a ribbon that just happened to barely cover her peaks. The two roundnesses were proudly bared to people's eyes just like that, forcing their way out rampantly and entering into Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes which burnt with raging flames in an extremely impudent way.
When had the sixth Highness seen such a provocative and unruly woman? He raised his big hand and tore the ribbon that covered her. Watching the delicate roundnesses bounce and hoot, he chided sternly with unsteady breathing.
"Where have you learnt such debauchery?" Although his words carried a great admonishment, the movements of his hands didn't have a trace of politeness. They were delightedly roaming over her body.
Mu Xi Yao simply stuck out her chest, pushing it before his lips when she saw that the man was determined to preserve his dignity at all cost. She approached him in a bewitching manner, "Your Highness ~, do you want or not?"
'Debauchery?' The stinky man then better has balls and stay put.
Mu Xi Yao's insatiable seduction and teasing made Zhong Zheng Lin unable to pay heed to anything else. How could he still remember the previous talk? As soon as he opened his mouth, he sucked in the pink softness that he has coveted after for a long time. A groan broke from his throat. Finally, has he quenched painful desire.
Mu Xi Yao shifted her leg and straddled the man. Her little hand grabbed his manhood and started to play with it as she pleased. Every time Zhong Zheng Lin was about to reach climax, she would abruptly stop her movements and began a new round of torture, making him groan over and over again.
"Jiao Jiao, fast. Can't stand it." Zhong Zheng Lin's whole body trembled. The beads of sweat on his forehead dripped down.
Mu Xi Yao lifted up slightly her lower body and began slowly unfastening the cloth covering her intimate parts in front of the man. She then brought it to the tip of his nose and brushed gently the cloth against his nose, only to see Zhong Zheng Lin held up his chin highly, panting heavily.
"Does your Highness want nujia2. to serve you?" Her wanton voice titillated his senses.
She didn't wait for his response. Her little hand directly supported the stiff rod and directed it toward her softness, slowly sitting down.
"Such a teaser." Zhong Zheng Lin couldn't stand how deliberate slow she was. He drew her to his arms, tightly held her waist and directly entered into her. The man didn't stop for a moment. As soon as he was inside her, he began to thrust into her in a frantic speed.
After experiencing the most difficult waiting, Zhong Zheng Lin has entered into paradise, feeling like having a good rain after a long drought, rising from the dead.
"Jiao Jiao, bendian won't let you off no matter how many times you'll beg for mercy today."
The little woman had soft bones. She was naturally wanton in bed, becoming increasingly familiar in bedroom intimacies. Indeed, she was intoxicating to one's senses.
Accompanied by such an extraordinarily beautiful woman, if it weren't for Zhong Zheng Lin's usual self-control and taking pity on her, how could she still act so arrogantly and bossily? She would, most likely, not be able to get up on the second day.
Zhong Zheng Lin's unprecedented mad attacks scared Mu Xi Yao into letting out faint sounds of sobbing. Her body felt aroused and unbearable. She only knew to moan delicately on and on. Her inner muscles kept tightening around Zhong Zheng Lin's flesh, making him bellowing again and again.
For a moment, the man and woman were partaking in the act of lovemaking that was both intense and full of passion. It went on ceaselessly without a break.
Mo Lan along with little servant girls kept a watch outside for almost half a night before they heard his Highness calling for water. Originally, she thought that masters would rest in the warm room, but to her surprise, after a while, she heard once again a delicate outcry rise from inside. She quickly took people further away, waiting to be summoned.
"Your Highness~no." Mu Xi Yao's words were broken. She lied under Zhong Zheng Lin, as limp as a mud.
"No?" Zhong Zheng Lin was determined to fix her today. Thus, how would he listen to her soft whispers? "Jiao Jiao is too untamed. The day when you took concubine for bendian, have you said no?"
Mu Xi Yao didn't expect the stinky man would bring up old scores3. at such time. The humiliation made her fly into a rage, yet she couldn't withstand the thrusts of his lower parts. As a result, she had no other choice as to pitifully confess her crimes and vow she won't dare to make such deed again.
"The remaining few misdeeds, if Jiao Jiao is willing to admit to them like this, they won't be ever again pursued after today." Zhong Zheng Lin leaned over and whispered to Mu Xi Yao's ears. No long after, he saw the woman's face flush into a deep red color and subsequently speak out indignantly, "Shameless!"
Zhong Zheng Lin slightly closed his phoenix eyes. His smile harbored evil intentions, "Another misdeed added to the pile." He picked Mu Xi Yao and was about to move toward the window.
Mu Xi Yo detected the man's intention. She was so scared her whole body trembled and she hugged him tightly, crying out in alarm, "Qie admits. Qie admits."
Zhong Zheng Lin finally made a detour and pressed the person against the wall, ravishing her fiercely.
Mu Xi Yao's breath became unsteady as she saw the man going back on his words. She criticized him resentfully, "Qie has already complied. How can your Highness go back on your words?"
Zhong Zheng Lin's manhood was pleasantly engulfed by Mu Xi Yao's softness. He reminded her good-naturedly, "Bendian has promised not to pursue matters ever again after today. Now, bendian is conducting a separate punishment." After finishing, he began a fierce taking, giving the woman no time to take a breath. His thrusts made Mu Xi Yao cry out loudly, lost and delirious.
Only when the sky started to show first rays did Zhong Zheng Lin carried the freshened up Mu Xi Yao to bed and went to rest while drawing her to himself.
Mo Lan and the lot fought hard to stay sober. Finally, Zhao momo brought Hui Lan to take a turn on duty. They then dazedly returned back to their rooms to take a sleep.
Just, she was worried inwardly. His Highness was so vigorous, could her master still cope with his Highness?
Mu cefei who was in other people's mind was having a nightmare at this time.
Inside the dream, the great devil king chased after her endlessly, making her flee all over the place. In the end, devil king has ferociously captured her back and suppressed her under the Mout Five Finger for whole eight hundred years4.
Translation notes:
[1] Warm room is a heated room served for entertainments
[2] Nujia means your servant (humble self-reference by young female)
[3] Bring up old scores is a Chinese idiom meaning to reopen old wounds or to revive old quarrels
[4] Referring to Monkey King who was suppressed under imprisoned for five hundred years
67
Time flies quickly. In the blink of an eye, it was already the thirteenth year of Zhanghe.
The fact that her son, Cheng Qing, was already four months old gave Mu Xi Yao great headaches these days. Little bun made babble sounds and created quite a fuss. Perhaps it was because his foundation was too good. Turning over was already an easy drive on a familiar path1 to the little bun. When one looked at his attitude, it was full of ambition. He could be frequently seen lying on his stomach like a toad. Maybe after a short period of time, even crawling and sitting up would become a cinch for her little bun.
Moreover, the little bun was spoilt rotten by his daddy. Every day, he had to "fly" once, otherwise, he would stare at Mu Xi Yao with those black pupils of his and keep babbling to himself. And if she were to ignore him, he would be immediately displeased and start an earth-shaking weep.
At first, Mu Xi Yao didn't know way around. She thought Cheng Qing has fallen sick. She was even going to order people to ask for the imperial physician. However, who knew that when Zhong Zheng took him over, bun stopped crying pitifully and even began to play happily with his daddy.
Mu Xi Yao was infuriated. This brat has become a witty devil. He was only four months old, yet he already knew to threaten her. She then quickly called people to send off the imperial physician who has rushed over and even bestowed him gifts for inconveniencing him. Thus, she had dealt properly the trouble little bun had caused.
Mu Xi Yao returned to the house menacingly to complain to Zhong Zheng Lin that her son was being spoilt by his own dad. What's more, people had to yield to him. He was so small, yet already knew to throw tantrum. If they don't lecture him now, it would be difficult to discipline him in the future.
The sixth Highness complied. However, whenever he turned his head, he would immediately put it out of his mind. As long as bun saw him, he would instantly throw himself at him and the sixth Highness would then certainly follow Cheng Qing's desire, lift him highly and play with him a game of flying.
The father and son's incorrigible behavior infuriated Mu Xi Yao so much that she had to pout her grievances to her Ladyship consort Shu. Who would have imagined her Ladyship consort Shu would display a benevolent expression and praise Mu Xi Yao that she has brought up Cheng Qing well, raising him into a very bright child. There was no word of criticism. In addition, she kept bragging before the attendants around about how outstanding was her grandson since being a child, that a promising future will surely await him in the future.
Mu Xi Yao's intention to seek an alliance was shattered. She could only sternly educate her son while Zhong Zheng Lin wasn't in the estate. She had to harden her heart in order to correct the bun's little temper she disapproved of. Ultimately, she made bun understand one principle: the method "a child who cries get sweets2" doesn't work in front of his mom.
Zhong Zheng Lin read the report sent by the secret guard. The way how Mu cefei educated his son, regardless of its importance, was all recorded on it.
The sixth Highness was amused when he thought of how his rabbit pulled a long face at a baby. In any case, Cheng Qing was only a little over four months old. In what way was he so mischievous like she believed?
However, the little woman was, to his surprise, unusually strict when it came to disciplining a child. She didn't spoil or coddle child like other womenfolk did. On the contrary, she was even a bit sterner than him the father.
Having such a mother to bring him up, Zhong Zheng Lin had great expectations from Cheng Qing.
The sixth Highness and Mu cefei raised up a baby and enjoyed themselves in Danruo courtyard. The rest of the women in the inner yard also had never stopped having ideas.
Little lady Tang has been convalescing for half a month. As soon as she could get out of bed, she took her people and went to lady Qi's place to pay her a visit. At first, the two have exchanged some pleasantry words between themselves, but later on, they've got into an argument for some reason, going as far as to part on bad terms. Even Mu Xi Yao has received the news of it.
Tang shufei made some discreet inquiries. At last, she had found the right opportunity. She chose a time when Zhong Zheng Lin was present to go over to Danruo courtyard and make a visit. For several times, it appeared like she wanted to say something but kept quiet due to some difficulty.
Mu Xi Yao couldn't bear to see her "act" so strenuously, thus she complied her wish and inquired her about it.
As soon as Tang shufei opened her mouth, she revealed little lady Tang's health condition and made a big deal of her illness. She took advantage of this opportunity to apply eye medicine3 for her shu sister in front of the six Highness. Mu Xi Yao who was listening to her at side kept rolling her eyes. After all the hassles, she had it was all just for this one intention?
According to Tang Yi Ru's words, little lady Tang's illness was too unpredictable. No one knew when it will flare up. If her illness flared up some day and she accidentally frightened little master, it would be extremely inappropriate.
On the surface, Tang Yi Ru looked like being caught between a rock and a hard place; as if she felt deeply distressed for making up her mind and offering a word of advice. Mu Xi Yao was curious inside. If Tang Yi Ru knew that there was someone more black-hearted sitting behind her, would she be scared to death?
Although Zhong Zheng Lin didn't care about the inner yard, he had heard to some extent about rumors of the vileness that went between Tang sisters, however. Nowadays, watching how this di sister wanted to send shu sister of hers to a villa by every possible means, he could actually see originality and resolution in her approach.
Inwardly, he held Tang Yi Ru in contempt. However, he did have a mind to fulfill her proposal.
Tang Hui Ru had only one label in Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes – a concubine that was personally taken in by Mu Xi Yao. This alone made Zhong Zheng Lin feel sick at the sight of her. Since there was a woman who infuriated the sixth Highness greatly, he was prepared to act willfully from time to time.
Just as Mu Xi Yao was thinking of delaying this matter for two days so that she could secretly release the information to let Tang Hui Ru know and watch the two women expose mutual faults, to her surprise, Zhong Zheng Lin went ahead and nodded first. That being the case, it wouldn't be appropriate for her to mention this issue again. After all, Mu Xi Yao has received a profound lesson on little lady Tang's matter and dared not to repeat the misdeed. Mu Xi Yao quivered. She better not stroke the tiger's whiskers4.
When Tang Yi Ru got the approval, she went to flaunt her prowess before Tang Hui Ru in an all relaxed manner.
"Does little sister's body feel better? Big sister just returned from cefei's place. On the way back, I conveniently came here to see you."
Tang Hui Ru had to stifle her anger when she watched how this woman rode a roughshod over her. Grinning from ear to ear, she replied to her, "Thanks for big sister's concern. The reason why little sister was able to get better so quickly was also due to big sister's proper care."
The two were well aware of the meaning behind those words.
"Since little sister has freed yourself of the worrying thoughts, little sister will naturally get well. However, as a big sister, I should advise you a little. You ought not to consume your mind with too much thoughts. Otherwise, you're bound to change the direction of your good fortune."
Sure enough. She has become aware of it. It seems that Qi woman betrayed her and sided with this wench. Tang Hui Ru was so angry her liver was in pain. Even so, the resolution in her eyes became even more clear.
"Little sister ought to thank big sister for your concern. In the future, little sister will take big sister as a model and dedicate myself wholeheartedly to Buddha, as well as honor cefei."
Ever since Tang Yi Ru had suffered the blow, she took the opportunity of copying the sutras to calm her mind and take a breath. It was merely a temporary dormancy that waited for action after having saved up the strength to start out. Unexpectedly, Tang Hui Ru has hit her where it hurt the most. Then, she recalled this scourge would be sent away tomorrow. As for what might happen afterward, it was unpredictable. She restrained the fury that raged inside her heart. Tang Yi Ru gave her a tiny smile, took her people and left.
Looking at the glint of victory in the eyes of that woman, Tang Hui Ru felt inexplicably disturbed inside the heart. Could it be she got up a new trick up her sleeve? She immediately took her servant girls and went to Danruo courtyard to seek Mu Xi Yao's audience. However, she was being told that his Highness had taken cefei and her son to stay at villa for a few days. Half a quarter of an hour prior, they've left the palace.
Tang Hui Ru's complexion completely changed. Her hand that held onto the servant girl's slightly trembled. So, it's like this. She knew that woman won't, all of a sudden, tolerate her provocation. She was to blame for being momentarily careless and not firm enough. Now, she had lost the opportunity and what's more, she didn't know what kind of wicked scheme would that woman use on her.
After Tang Hui Ru went back, she felt restless. Deep inside, she had a premonition of imminent bad omen. She sat in front of the writing desk, lost in thoughts. Until at the hour of Zi5, she made up her mind. She took up a pen and began to scribble rapidly.
On the next day, as Tang Hui Ru looked at the chief steward and two manservants in front of her, she couldn't simply believe her ears.
His Highness has actually agreed to send her away? How can it be? She was the imperial prince's concubine. She hasn't heard of a precedent where such person was sent away. In the imperial family, if a woman from the inner yard made a mistake, the most serious punishment was to have her caned to death. Then, it was to send her to a family temple or lifetime confinement. There was no reason to send the one in question away.
"Chief steward, is there a…..a mistake? How can be the imperial prince's concubine sent away so easily? Even If the person committed an unforgivable sin, she is sent to the family temple and cultivate her spiritual virtues!" Tang Hui Ru's heart burnt with anxiety. Terrified, she grabbed Tian Fu Shan's cuff. Her heart felt ice-cold.
Tian Fu Shan watched the woman before him. He only felt she was both tragic and lamentable. She took great pains to think through a scheme to enter the estate. Unfortunate for her, she has violated his Highness's taboo by seeking help from cefei. Now, such an ending awaited her. Not only hasn't she ever gained nor enjoyed the grace and wealth, but even her prime youth of sixteen was going to wither and fall. How foolish of her.
"His Highness has personally ordered it in the presence of cefei and shufei. How can there be a mistake? Little mistress better pack up, take servant girls and go." Tian Fu Shan pulled out his sleeve from her grasp and slightly waved his hand.
Tang Hui Ru limped to the ground. She broke into mad laughter. Her tears dripped onto her skirt. Disregarding the servant girls' advices, she wept with despair. This was the marriage match she has schemed with her heart and soul. This was the pipedream she had staked all on one throw.
An idea that becomes empty. An idea that becomes empty.
Translation notes:
[1] Easy drive on a familiar path is a Chinese idiom meaning experience makes progress easy; a task that is so familiar one can do it with one's hand tied behind one's back
[2] A child who cries get sweets is a phrase that should be similar to the squeaky wheel gets the grease
[3] To apply eye medicine means to tell tales or speak ill of others
[4] Stroke the tiger's whiskers is a Chinese idiom meaning to do sth very daring
[5] Hour of Zi means 11 pm-1 am
68
Gradually, Tang Hui Ru stifled her tears. Supported by a servant girl's hand, she got up and sat upright before the dressing table, grooming herself in front of the mirror.
When she looked at the woman's beautiful face in the mirror, she suddenly remembered how she was sitting on a swing and looking at the alley outside where the rain beat the spoilt flowers. That was when she found out how ridiculously laughable she was. Unexpectedly, she had also withered and became mud on the ground that no one asked about.
She softly stroked the hair on her temple. Since she, Tang Hui Ru, was doomed to forever lose her hope and fall into mud. In that case, how can that di sister of hers, who sent her to an ice-cold purgatory, enjoy a quiet spring and smile brightly like a flower all by herself?
Tang Hui Ru packed up and gave a last glance at the little courtyard that has accompanied her when she had waited lonely through countless of nights. Subsequently, taking the servant girls, she left without turning her back.
By the time they've arrived at the gate to the estate, Tang Hui Ru has finally turned around and curtsied, "Chief steward, qie knows qie is slow-witted by nature and disliked by his Highness. Now, qie has only one thing to ask for. Qie begs steward to comply to this matter."
She took out a letter from the bundle and passed it to him, "Qie will have to bother chief steward to pass on this letter to cefei on qie's behalf. Qie will take leave." After finishing, she slightly bent her knees and then climbed onto the carriage.
Tian Fu Shan looked at the letter in his hands and recalled the dead water like quietness in little lady Tang's eyes. He shook his head and sighed.
At this time, Shuhui Courtyard was also in a busy and chaotic mess.
"Mistress, Hong Xiu has passed on a message. Yesterday, she was knocked out by little lady Tang. She woke up just this morning."
"Useless person!" Tang Yi Ru waved her hand and smashed the dangling hairpin in her hand, consumed by the anger.
That Hong Xiu was the second rank servant girl in Tang Hui Ru's courtyard. She used a large amount of money to buy her. From time to time, Hong Xiu would send some information over to her. As soon as she heard Tang Hui Ru urgently asked to see cefei yesterday, she immediately knew that things were far from good. Fortunately, she had taken it into consideration beforehand and didn't let her see cefei. Otherwise, it would be hard to tell who would be the one with ill-luck now.
She has exploited even such an arrangement. Originally, she had left Hong Xiu for the safeguard purposes. So that in case she made any slight movements, she would be able to remedy it as early as possible. However, what she didn't expect was that woman actually had some skills, after all. Not only did she pull out her informant but she even managed to leave behind a snake in the grass.
What did Tang Hui Ru do last night?
Tang shufei couldn't rest or eat in peace. She sent Hong Xiu back to carefully check the house. However, she didn't find any spider's thread and horse track1. Tang Yi Ru felt uneasy inside, yet she couldn't find the source behind this uneasiness.
"Mistress, there's no need to worry. There's no person of use by little lady Tang's side. Everything ought to be absolutely safe." Seeing her mistress's brows crease, Shu Mei knew she was worried inside the heart.
Tang Yi Ru gently fiddled with her fingers. She bit her lips and contemplated for a moment. "No. I must have overlooked something. Otherwise, why would that wench deliberately knock out Hong Xiu? Are there truly no people of use in her courtyard?"
Shu Mei's confident shake of the head has somewhat eased Tang Yi Ru's mind. It was just Tang shufei's mind calmed down too soon. A letter has been placed in between the documents that were presented to Zhong Zheng Lin every day and it was currently being delivered to the villa.
"Did father agree to arrange the manpower?" She sent her off merely in order to conveniently deal with her.
"The house has sent news. At first, sir was very hesitant. Until later, when he was told merits and drawbacks, he finally made a decision."
"Good then. Finally, there would be a resolution." If she had known about Tang Hui Ru's thoughts earlier, she would have got rid of her during her boudoir time2. Unfortunately, she was in the palace later on. In addition, father was soft-hearted which, in the end, had delayed lots of time. It was inevitable that things would change.
In the evening. Mu Xi Yao was surprised that she has received a letter from little lady Tang. She opened the letter and began to read it attentively. She has finally found the answer to the matter that had perplexed her for two years.
As it turns out, the reason Tang Yi Ru was repeatedly yielding to little lady Tang was actually due to this. Indeed, heaven at last repays a crime and the guilty will not escape.
Just as she was pondering, she saw Zhong Zheng Lin come in with a frosty expression.
"Your Highness." Mu Xi Yao got up and went to attend to him.
Zhong Zheng Lin looked down at little woman's head. He pulled the person to sit on the low stool.
"Little Tang shi's carriage encountered bandits. Her personal maidservants were killed and the manservants of the prince's estate were seriously injured. They were already carried back to give medical treatment. Little Tang shi, on the other side, was rescued by a wandering swordsman who passed by. Her whereabouts are unknown."
Mu Xi Yao was shocked. Tang Yi Ru was indeed vicious and merciless. She even wanted to cut clean the last means of her sister's survival. What she didn't know was that this action of hers justified what little lady Tang's letter said.
Mu Xi Yao snorted. This kind of woman has already fallen into madness. She cannot be left.
She can strive for favor and climb up the ladder in the prince's estate. However, fondness of bravery and fighting3 absolutely musn't be tolerated. She can deal with the womenfolk's tricks. But, once it ascended to an open spear and open stab4, she better hand this matter over to Zhong Zheng Lin.
Mu Xi Yao picked the letter that was placed on the table and passed it on to Zhong Zheng Lin who was looking at her with a puzzled expression.
Zhong Zheng Lin took and looked at it. It was totally unfamiliar handwriting, a woman's. He read the content. His expression got more and more heavy. After reading the whole letter, he laughed grimly.
"Venomous woman!" Now, when he recalled little Tang shi's circumstance, everything was clear.
"Your Highness, the struggle in the inner yard has always been ruthless. However, those were all tricks that were better kept under the table5. As long as there were not life or dead animosity, they would still retain themselves. However, Tang shufei's actions were tantamount to hiring an assassin and bury a man. This is too serious." Mu Xi Yao didn't hide the slightest bit her disdain for Tang Yi Ru. If this woman was not eliminated, the inner yard will hardly become peaceful.
"Furthermore, the incident with the little Tang shi's sudden illness last time. It wasn't the improper use of food. The abrupt outburst of her old illness was caused by stimulation. Qie didn't mention about it due to lack of evidence.
Zhong Zheng Lin's brows creased when he heard about the inside story. He thought it was coincidental, too. After this matter, he had no more doubts.
"If there was no Mo Lan to rescue her at the time, would she die?"
Mu Xi Yao recalled the circumstances on that day. She was very sure, "It wouldn't take long before she died."
Zhong Zheng Lin fiercely narrowed his phoenix eyes. His expression was unreadable.
"Rest assured, Jiao Jiao. Bendian's inner yard won't condone a crazed woman."
When this kind of woman went insane, he certainly couldn't bear to see a mishap happen to Mu Xi Yao and their son.
Mu Xi Yao's heart relaxed once she got Zhong Zheng Lin's promise. That woman had seriously fallen into disarray. She hasn't made a move yet, but she was already busy on her end. It was all thanks to little lady Tang who has hindered her actions. Otherwise, how could she live so well in Danruo Courtyard?
Mu Xi Yao felt deeply comforted inwardly. She had taken in a good concubine. Not only did she took a woman that Zhong Zheng Lin would never touch, but she could also share worries and difficulties with her and help her solve problems. Unfortunately, big boss wasn't happy with it. This kind of benefit will be hard to enjoy in the future. It was truly not easy to goof off.
The two were using a meal in the main hall. Cheng Qing was fed the milk. He was currently being carried by Gui Momo who was aiding him with digestion at the side. The little guy, seeing that both of his parents were present, cheerfully babbled as he watched the two.
Mu Xi Yao picked food for Zhong Zheng Lin while looking at the little bun's lucky mascot6 appearance. She smiled sweetly.
"Concentrate on eating." The sixth Highness, seeing that little woman was distracted by other things, his expression turned displeased.
Mu Xi Yao pouted. There was a new addition to stinky man's bad habits. Whenever she attended to him, she had to be wholeheartedly concentrated on him. Otherwise, this great lord will begin to give you an attitude.
Her eyes turned. Mu Xi Yao switched the dishes that were disliked by Zhong Zheng Lin to the front. She picked the celery and bamboo shoot slices and put them into his bowl.
When the sixth Highness saw the extra celery in the bowl, his expression was quite severe.
"Your Highness, Cheng Qing is looking. Your Highness cannot give him a bad example." Mu cefei's expression was earnest. She sternly requested the sixth Highness to make a good example.
The corner of Zhong Zheng Lin's mouth twitched. When he looked up, he saw his son's big and black eyes staring at him. He lowered his head and hesitated for a moment. Then, in an elegant manner, he slowly ate the food in his bowl, finishing them all off.
Looking at the man's tense side profile, Mu Xi Yao laughed inwardly. No matter how well you disguised yourself on the outside or how invulnerable you are, after returning home, you actually dare to be picky about food? Humph! If sis can't fix you, sis will have your son to fix you.
Translation notes:
[1] Spider's thread and horse track is a Chinese phrase meaning clues, hints
[2] Boudoir time means during her time as maiden/unmarried time
[3] Fondness of bravery and fighting is a Chinese idiom meaning someone aggressive, combative and belligerent
[4] Open spear and open stab derived from a Chinese idiom easy to dodge the spear in the open, hard to avoid a stab in the dark (it is hard to guard against secret conspiracies)
[5] Better kept under the table is a Chinese idiom meaning to not be disclosed, too inferior to show in public, not presentable
[6] Lucky mascot was an official 2008 Olympic mascots
69
Tang Yi Ru felt uneasy inside. As long as she can't figure out what has happened on that night, she won't be able to sit still.
Fortunately, her household has quickly sent a message which said everything was settled. This made her feel a little assured.
When his Highness has returned with cefei for seven-eight days and nothing particular has happened in the estate, Tang Yi Ru's heart could finally calm down.
On this day, Tang Shufei has invited lady Qi to Shuhui Courtyard to try the newly invented snack. The two sat in the water pavilion, dismissing the services of attenders.
"How is little sister doing in recent days? If you run short of something, you needn't be polite, don't hesitate to tell me about it." Tang Yi Ru acted gently on the surface. However, inwardly, she contemplated that this lady Qi was quite well versed with incenses. If she was able to obtain some incenses that were beneficial for love act between man and woman, it would be for the best.
Looking at shufei who was much more spirited than in the past, lady Qi has guessed it was because of little lady Tang's "recuperating" outside of the palace. She has originally thought her scheme failed. How would she know that the mountain road would wordlessly twist around each new peak1?
"This servant thanks shufei for your thoughtfulness. There's cefei to watch over the estate. Servants privately don't dare to deduce allowance money." Lady Qi replied politely as if she didn't hear lady Tang's affectionate "little sister".
The hand of Tang Yi Ru that was kneading the handkerchief under the stone table paused. However, the expression on her face was as warm-hearted as before. The two have chatted and laughed for a while before Tang Yi Ru had Shu Mei to send lady Qi off.
"You fool who don't know to appreciate other's favor." Tang Yi Ru looked coldly at departing lady Qi.
Want to sever ties at this time? It was so like her weak personality. No wonder she was always so good-for-nothing.
On the other side, as soon as lady Qi came back to her room, she drove people out. She shut herself in the room, recalling about the oddity in Shuhui Courtyard.
Originally, seeing Tang Yi Ru win an effortless victory, having disposed of little lady Tang, she planned to curry favor with her. However, as she was about to open her mouth, she had unexpectedly smelt a faint sweet scent.
It was precisely this extremely light scent that has alerted her.
It wasn't an ordinary fragrance. It was a life-taking thing.
This was Tang Shufei's second time being schemed by someone. What's more, it was fatal and merciless. The first time, it was little lady Tang. She has accidentally seen through the trick and enlightened Tang Yi Ru.
But now that little lady Tang was gone, there were still people who wanted to deal with her?
Lady Qi got up and slowly paced back and forth in the house. She felt like she had neglected something. She bit her lips and thought hard. Suddenly, lady Qi's face turned stark pale. She stood still, rooted in the place with a stiff body.
Truly. She was only half a step away from bumping into her doom. When she thought of those pair of ice-cold eyes, lady Qi felt terrified inside. She thought that she had a close call.
It was indeed dangerous. This wasn't something she could touch. She better try to avoid it as much as possible.
After that day, Tang Yi Ru has once again come to invite her. However, to her surprise, lady Qi didn't come under the pretext of illness. Tang shufei was so infuriated she tore a sketch that was about to be completed.
"Just a mere concubine, yet she disregards her mistress. She clearly wants to distance from us." Shu Tao complained while fuming with anger.
Tang Yi Ru's expression was ugly. These lowly servants, seeing that she was not favored, they didn't even bother with pretense.
Initially, she wanted to go to Danruo Courtyard to pay respect and use this opportunity to show her face to his Highness and curry favor with him. But who knew that these days cefei also didn't feel well and wouldn't receive visitors nor see anyone.
A certain unwell woman whom Tang Yi Ru was currently thinking of was at the moment eating in Danruo courtyard till her little face turned reddish.
Mu Xi Yao has cooked the soup for a whole day over a low flame and seasoned it with soup stock. Currently, she was dipping the fish meatball in the boiling liquid for Zhong Zheng Lin. Both of them didn't like to eat spicy food. Mu Xi Yao chose for the soup base the wild mountain mushroom and an old duck. It was very delicious. Especially in the deep winter season, even their hearts warmed up as they consumed the soup. Even the picky eater the sixth Highness has greatly praised the food.
"She wants to see you?" Zhong Zheng Lin's dislike of Tang Yi Ru was plain as day from the way he addressed her. Before, it was still Tang shi for the honor of shufei. However, he was extremely disgusted by that woman nowadays. He felt that even the respectable position of shufei was besmirched by her.
"Um. Qie has avoided her by calling sickness." Mu Xi Yao wasn't as influenced by taboos as ancient people were thus she has used the most convenient excuse. Would not saying you're sick make you not get sick? In that case, why would she work so hard and torment herself each day?
Dissatisfied, Zhong Zheng Lin put aside the chopsticks, "Don't treat yourself lightly."
Nothing was a taboo to the little woman. The sixth Highness thought it was irksome.
Mu Xi Yao delicately pouted her little mouth. She smacked her lips and pecked Zhong Zheng Lin's cheeks. Beaming with smiles, she said lovably, "Your Highness will have to remind qie in the future."
Seeing her acting shamelessly, frustrated yet loving her delicateness, Zhong Zheng Lin caught her over and nipped on her fiercely. Since he couldn't bear to chide her he could only fix her in the bed.
Mu Xi Yao was infuriated. They were using a meal! This man was too shameless. Didn't he see there were other people in the house?
Also, what was this smell?
"Your Highness, qie hates radish!" Mu Xi Yao's mouth opened and closed, anxiously exhaling the air.
Zhong Zheng Lin was amused by her.
The rabbit complained to him while panting in the rage that she disliked the radish?
The sixth Highness suddenly made a resolution that the radish must be fed to her. He was fascinated by the sight of rabbit crossing swords with the radish.
However, his rabbit wasn't a domestic rabbit, thus her temper was inevitably fierce. Hence, it was reasonable that she liked to eat meat.
"Aren't you going to make a good example? Going back on your words, en?" This woman was a typical example of a double standard person. She was lax to herself, looking only after a comfortability.
Mu Xi Yao chuckled. She pointed with her right hand at the tip of her nose and then pointed at little bun who was looked after by a wet nurse in the inner room.
"Master Confucius says: Only women and small-minded men are hard to deal with ～～" Her tone rose and fell. She was very satisfied with herself.
Zhong Zheng Lin broke into laughter. He threw away the bowl and chopsticks and carried the glowing woman into the study in the front.
"Did master teach Jiao Jiao about: red sleeve replenishes an incense2?" The sixth Highness smoothly answered her.
Seeing that she was further and further away from the fine food she had busily prepared for the whole day, she was so infuriated her little feet wiggled chaotically, "Your Highness, qie is still hungry!"
Zhong Zheng Lin pressed her swaying head to the hollow of his neck. His big palm greeted her plump derriere with two smacks.
"Don't eat too much. Beware of indigestion."
Mu Xi Yao was furious. What was "don't eat too much"? She has only used a half of a bowl, alright? Sperms have wormed their way into this man's brain. He was spurting pure nonsenses!
In the middle of their hot dispute, they saw Tian Fu Shan rush over.
Zhong Zheng Lin, seeing that the chief steward didn't step back even though he was fully aware the two of them were alone, knew that the matter was urgent. He put Mu Xi Yao down and helped her stand up. Afterward, he waved his hand, exempting him from salutation.
"Your Highness, Pin xiuyi3 is not good. His Imperial Majesty and his eighth Highness are keeping watch by her side. All the mistresses in the inner palace have gone over."
The eighth prince was fourteen years old this year4. Xiuyi was a ninth rank secondary class pin. As a result, Zhong Zheng Han has been personally brought up by Pin xiuyi. They had a deep affection for each other.
Zhong Zheng Lin's expression became solemn. If Pin xiuyi passed away now, changes will fall upon all the princes' forces. The elder brother of Pin xiuyi was Chen Yan Kui, the regional commander of Guanxi whom will Yuancheng Emperor soon put into an important position.
Mu Xi Yao had the same thoughts as Zhong Zheng Lin. She has instantly understood that the situation has changed.
"Your Highness has important matters to attend. Qie will retreat first." After finishing, she curtsied and was about to return.
"Wait." Seeing that she wanted to leave by herself, Zhong Zheng Lin immediately called Wei Zhen to send the person to the inner yard. "Be careful on the way back." This woman often made him some troubles. If he didn't let someone watch over her, he won't be at ease.
When Mu Xi Yao returned to Danruo Courtyard, she was no longer interested in using the meal.
Pin xiuyi was actually critically ill? It was another thing that didn't happen in previous life.
If she passes away now, Yuancheng Emperor will inevitably feel guilty about the eighth prince inside his heart and will want to make up to him to some extent. Moreover, it seems that Pin xiuyi's parental home had quite an influence in the army. Choosing such a moment, she indeed knew how to pick time. This woman was truly…..
In the previous life, apart from Zhong Zheng Lin, the one most promising to seize the throne wasn't the fifth prince Zhong Zheng Ming but the eighth prince Zhong Zheng Han. This person had a tenacious character, was extremely forbearing and also had a gloomy and cold temperament. His moves were both vicious and merciless. This was a young lion who was ignored by people in the early days.
If he entered the game ahead of time, then the battle over the throne in this lifetime will become even more fierce.
Translation notes:
[1] The mountain road twists around each new peak is a Chinese idiom meaning an opportunity has come unexpectedly; things have taken a new turn
[2] Red sleeve replenishes the incense is a Chinese idiom meaning a scholar who's accompanied by beauty
[3] Xiuyi is a title of an imperial consort belonging to pin ranks (see in Tang Dynasty section – link)
[4] The eighth prince's age is calculated according to the traditional Chinese method of reckoning. In this system, a person's age is one year at birth, and increases by one year at the beginning of the first solar term each year, rather than on one's birthday. Hence, his real age is actually thirteen.
70
Pin xiuyi was lying on the bed, looking at Yuancheng Emperor and Zhong Zheng Han with a pale face. Her lips trembled and tears could not stop falling from her eyes.
"Chenqie1 failed to live up to your Majesty's expectations. Chenqie won't be able to attend to your Majesty anymore." The woman sobbed. Her sorrowful voice bore its way into Yuancheng Emperor's ears.
Yuancheng Emperor stroked the back of Pin xiuyi's hand that had blue veins protruding on the skin surface. His eyes couldn't bear to see this scene.
He wasn't very fond of this woman. However, she has been accompanying him for nearly two decades. And now, she was going to leave. In the end, he was still saddened.
"The imperial physician has said you need to set your mind at rest, recuperate and properly take medicine. You'll get well. Zhen will find time to come to see you often. Be sure not to think too much." Yuancheng Emperor looked at the woman on the bed who was as thin as a match. Nevertheless, his heart has somewhat tugged a little.
Pin xiuyi turned her head to look at Zhong Zheng Han who was standing at the bedside with red eyes. Her gaze was filled with deep worry.
"Your Majesty, chenqie has never asked for anything. Before chenqie goes, chenqie hopes your Majesty can assent to one matter, on behalf of attending to your Majesty for all these years." She slowly looked up at Yuancheng Emperor's chin. Pin xiuyi's eyes were blurry, tears gushed from them, "Chenqie only asks your Majesty to watch over chenqie's only son a little so that he would be safe and healthy, surrounded by his offsprings who would run around his knees. Chenqie will then have no regrets."
Zhong Zheng Han sobbed quietly. After a moment of silence, Yuancheng Emperor held her hand, "Alright. Zhen promises you."
Pin xiuyi smiled softly. She slightly closed her eyes as she recalled the secret letter sent by her clan. In the next life, she only wished to never again be born into a prominent and noble family. She only hoped for a family that would love her dearly and a husband who would grow old together with her.
On the thirteenth year of Zhanghe, seventeenth day of the first month, the eighth prince's birth mother Pin xiuyi passed away. The emperor was grief-stricken. He conferred upon Pin xiuyi a posthumous title consort Wan of a standard class second rank. She shall be buried with a ceremony equal to a first rank imperial consort and be subsequently interred in an imperial mausoleum.
The seventh day after consort Wan's death, Yuancheng Emperor assigned the crown prince to take charge of the Ministry of Justice and shifted the eighth prince to the Ministry of Revenue. Once this assignment came out, the whole court was in an uproar.
The crown prince stayed in the Ministry of Revenue for two years. His foundation there was firm. Then, he was suddenly being transferred to the Ministry of Justice. Was this because Yuancheng Emperor wanted to toughen the crown prince or because he was dissatisfied with the crown prince's performance in recent months and thus has made the eighth prince to take charge?
In the past the eighth prince was young. He was inexperienced in the court matters. To everyone's surprise, at this time he has entered the Ministry of Revenue and wielded actual power.
Zhong Zheng Lin looked at the crown prince's stiff figure and then turned to look at the first prince's eyes that were reflecting a rejoice in other people's misfortune. He shook his head inwardly. The seniority was wasted on these two elder brothers of his. They couldn't even see through Yuanchen Emperor's intention behind assisting Zhong Zheng Han and still competed over the present gains and losses. Even the fifth prince Zhong Zheng Ming knew to draw in his horns. Yet, the two of them were constantly preoccupied with how to oppress the other one.
Mu Xi Yao carried her adorable rabbits and headed toward the front yard. Since yesterday, the rabbits appeared sickly. Even when Mu Xi Yao fed them, they paid her no heed. She had to find the chief steward so he will call people to take a look at them.
Gui momo followed her at the back while holding Cheng Qing. The little bun's eyes stared at rabbits. His eyes turned as he babbled happily.
Usually, Mu Xi Yao forbid Cheng Qing from getting close to rabbits. Pets weren't good for little children. She only let him look at them from afar. As a result, Cheng Qing became increasingly curious of them.
When the group of people entered the front yard, they happened to meet Di Wu Yi Zhao who was coming out of the study. After greeting each other, Mu Xi Yao wanted to leave as usual. However, she suddenly stopped and for the first time called Di Wu Yi Zhao in the prince's estate.
She let Mo Lan take the rabbits and find Tian Fu Shan. Gui momo tactfully followed her, leaving only Hui Lan who kept a watch at the distant.
"Mister is exceptionally knowledgeable. Qie has a puzzlement. Is it possible for qie to ask for mister's guidance?" Mu Xi Yao's expression appeared earnest.
Di Wu Yi Zhao was slightly surprised. This was the first time during all these years of a mutual acquaintance that Mu Xi Yao has called him for that she had a matter to discuss with him.
"Please speak, cefei." Di Wu Yi Zhao looked at Mu cefei whom his daughter has spoken highly of. He was somewhat curious.
"Qie has heard that there was a kind of beast which was very smart and docile in its childhood." Mu Xi Yao's words piqued Di Wu Yi Zhao's interest as soon as they were spoken.
"He will make people take pity on it by relying on its lovable outward appearance and small build, continuing concealing until it reached maturity." Mu Xi Yao's gaze seemed to relive the memory. She slowly spoke, "The strength in the blood of this kind of cub is oftentimes overlooked by people due to its young age and weak body. However, despite its smallness, it still possesses the instinct to attack. Especially when it's concealing itself. This beast is extremely good at observing and pretense."
Mu Xi Yao looked at Di Wu Yi Zhao with a tiny smile, "Does mister know what will happen when it grows up?"
At first, Di Wu Yi Zhao listened with abundant interest. However, later on, he detected cefei seemed to be pointing at something.
"Is it very skilled at hunting?" Di Wu Yi Zhao sounded her out.
Mu Xi Yao shook her head and chuckled. Zhong Zheng Han's methods were more than "skilled". That person's personality was extreme. In the previous life when Pin xiuyi was still alive, he had already manifested his sinister side. The death of Ping xiuyi in this lifetime will probably only aggravate the cruelty in his heart. This was a man who was even more dangerous than the crown prince and the first prince.
"Hunting is a beast's instinct. Yet, it picks people to devour." Mu Xi Yao looked at contemplating Di Wu Yi Zhao. She already gave an early warning. What followed after had nothing to do with a woman.
Taking Hui Lan, she went to pick little bun. Mu Xi Yao, lissome and graceful, walked few steps and left in distance.
Di Wu Xi Zhao remained in the same place for a while. He increasingly felt that there were many hints in cefei's few words.
If he had understood correctly, she was insinuating the eighth prince Zhong Zheng Han? When everyone was paying attention to Yuancheng Emperor's transferring arrangements, cefei has pointed out at the innate character of the eighth prince?
If his Highness's guesses on that day were right, then he mustn't ignore cefei's words.
Di Wu Yi Zhao thought for a moment. He didn't hurry to leave the palace. Instead, he returned to the study, staying there for two hours.
In the evening. On the bed, Zhong Zheng Lin caressed the little woman's long hair, contemplating with his closed eyes.
Mu Xi Yao's words during the daytime were to prepare against the unexpected or deliberate?
"If Jiao Jiao has a puzzlement, why Jiao Jiao won't ask bendian?"
Mu Xi Yao chuckled and bit the protruding tip on his chest. The man let out a muffled groan while his palm roamed over her body and stroke her skin.
"Your Highness, qie's puzzlement is nothing else but a womenfolk's trivial matter that's not worth mentioning. Moreover, qie is thick-headed and probably won't understand too complicated explanations." Mu Xi Yao licked his Adam's apple. Her little hand stroke back and forth the man's abs.
Zhong Zheng Lin was amused by Mu Xi Yao's open playing of the fool. His big hand kneaded and pinched her smooth and soft ample derrière, "Since Jiao Jiao is so dense, bendian truly needs to teach you…" He leaned over to whisper in her ear. He bit it while whispering her wanton words.
Mu Xi Yao was abashed. The sixth Highness was really enthusiastic about the bedroom intimacies. No matter how noble was his identity, at this moment, he was nothing more but a man controlled by his desire.
Mu Xi Yao delicately propped against his chest to climb up. She swept a seductive glance at the man and then sucked into the mouth the man's peak. Subsequently, she heard Zhong Zheng Lin's unstable breathing. He said with an enchanted voice, "Jiao Jiao, continue."
Her little head traced from his chest down. The tip of her tongue licked the firm abdomen. Zhong Zheng Lin was so excited his breathing came out heavily. He softly pulled at her hair.
Being prompted by the man, Mu Xi Yao's fingertip lightly touched and played with the man's scorching tip. Then, she blew out air at the big flesh that stood straight.
"You teaser. You honestly need fixing." After saying that, he caught her round mound and exerted a force as he kneaded it.
"Ah ～" Mu Xi Yao let out a tiny moan as her sensitive flesh was grabbed by the man.
"Do not tease. Bendian thirsted for you for too long." Zhong Zheng Lin let out a stifled roar and pressed Mu Xi Yao's head down, already impatient.
Mu Xi Yao cast him a sultry sidelong glance. While watching the man's red eyes, her head slowly descended down.
"Oh," Zhong Zheng Lin instantly groaned deeply. His chin was held high. Beads of sweat fell from him.
"Jiao Jiao's body is gorgeous. There's no spot that's not perfect."
Mu Xi Yao was choked by Zhong Zheng Lin. She inwardly cursed the man for being shameless.
Where was the sixth prince's usual elegance? During the bedroom intimacies, he did as he pleased and was full of wanton words.
Translation notes:
[1] Chenqie – "This subject and consort" is the first person pronoun employed by the empress and consorts before the emperor