81
"You should know bendian's intention. Don't think of deceiving bendian or glossing over the matter." Zhong Zheng Lin was too familiar with her usual tactics. Hence, he directly cut off her escape routes.
"Your Highness." Mu Xi Yao's brows knitted into a frown as she watched Zhong Zheng Lin's overbearing act. Did this man plan to get into the heart of the matter? Since it was necessary to make herself clear, Mu Xi Yao was unafraid of his mightiness.
"Since your Highness is going to be happily married with principal consort, qie naturally will watch over qies's favor and keep to qie's role. In the future, the principal consort will govern the estate. Qie ought to respect her and be even more respectful to your Highness and other princes."
The premise was He Lian Min Min would be sensible and tactful. However, according to that woman's character… Mu Xi Yao shook her head, having no optimistic expectancy from her.
Zhong Zheng Lin understood her meaning. If he touched He Lian Min Min, they could still get on well, but there won't be any further progress.
Zhong Zheng Lin was so angered by her his face turned livid. He grabbed tightly her wrists and put her forward against his chest, holding her there tenaciously. "What use has your respect to bendian?" He has enjoyed the world revering him since he's been born. As a result, would he still need the tiniest bit of Mu Xi Yao's particular respect?
Mu Xi Yao looked at him aggrievedly and hesitantly said, "Then qie is a scaredy-cat, can it be?" What was wrong with her unwilling to be the moth that flies into the flame1. Didn't he see that numerous women were annihilated by him? She's been only watching over her tiny piece of land and enjoying herself. Who told him to look for misery?
"Scaredy-cat? Bendian thinks you're audacious to the extreme!" When Zhong Zheng Lin connected events that happened in the past and now, suddenly, all the clouds have dispelled and he could see the sun. Everything seemed to be clear.
This woman planned to settle for the second-best and putting up with it "since there was no better option". Sharing a husband with others wasn't something she wished for. However, without any other choices, she could only take a step backward and accommodate to circumstances.
No wonder that until now she always kept a distance from him. The root of the problem was actually here.
Zhong Zheng Lin's chest rose and fell in anger. Apparently, he was in fury, "Grace is easier to ask for than a sincere heart?"
Mu Xi Yao was surprised by Zhong Zheng Lin's nimble thinking. A hint was all that he needed.
"Qie can obediently rely on your Highness. Isn't that good enough?" Mu Xi Yao sounded him out.
"Darn good." Zhong Zheng Lin could finally understand. This woman truly had no greed. For the sake of an easy and comfortable life, she has cut off the unrealistic pipe dreams a long time ago.
What enraged Zhong Zheng Lin the most was that Mu Xi Yao gave it all up without any hesitation. Damn her clear view. And he was unable to accept this nor let himself feel aggrieved. Coming all the way to this point, he already could not bear himself to let go.
As he watched Mu Xi Yao look at him pitifully, Zhong Zheng Lin could only stifle his anger.
He closed his eyes to contemplate for a long time. Shortly afterward, Zhong Zheng Lin snorted with laughter. Did she want to have tranquil days? It, too, depended on whether he was willing or not. To Mu Xi Yao, those insignificant women were actually worth her indifference toward his repeated demands? He, Zhong Zheng Lin, even dared to scheme all under the Heaven. What were one or two rules?
Zhong Zheng Lin pinched Mu Xi Yao's chin, the expression of his was sinister. His words were unusually ruthless, "What you dare not to demand, bendian will deliberately give to you." Seeing her dodge and avoid his gaze, Zhong Zheng Lin forcefully coerced, "Since the sincere heart has already been handed out; that being the case, if bendian cannot obtain reciprocation that belongs to bendian, say, Jiao Jiao, what will be consequences?" The man's big hand reached the side of her neck and lightly caressed it to match the threat he just spoke of. Mu Xi Yao was so scared her heart trembled chaotically.
Zhong Zheng Lin this madman! It wasn't yet time for him to make a show of authority, yet he already dared to disregard the ancestor's etiquette. If Yuancheng Emperor learnt she has "instigated" Zhong Zheng Lin to favor solely her, she will probably immediately be exterminated from this world.
Moreover, who told him that if he made an effort he will get an equal return? This logic of a bandit indeed fitted well his "take by force" personality.
Hundreds of thoughts went through Mu Xi Yao's mind. She laughed softly. Moving along the hand that pinched her chin, she slowly leaned over, pasting her lips onto the man's, lightly touching it.
"Your Highness, if qie is still unable to make you satisfied even after trying, what then?"
Zhong Zheng Lin held her head that intended to leave, continuing to kiss her deeply.
"Absolutely impossible." The man was full of confidence, his voice powerful and resonating. He wasn't the slightest bit worried he won't be able to conquer Mu Xi Yao this unexpected twist that has happened upon him.
"How about your Highness writing it down on black and white, a divorce letter as proof? If your Highness fails to keep the promise, you'll let qie go." Mu Xi Yao's mind was flexible. She immediately asked for benefits. When things were put this way, it seemed that Zhong Zheng Lin breaking the promise was more in line with her mind.
Zhong Zheng Lin took a mouthful bite of the fullness on Mu Xi Yao's bosom, chiding her ferociously, "Don't ever think of going out of the palace. Allowing you anything else is, on the contrary, possible." He will tie her to his side, slowly guide her. Once she works through the issues that weighed her mind, he won't need to worry she wouldn't fall in love. The sixth Highness had his own calculations.
The two had a verbal confrontation inside the room. However, they've also brought suffering to the commander of the secret guards who has been waiting in the outer room for a long time, asking for an audience.
After Zhong Zheng Lin has enjoyed to the fullest the woman's company, he spoke with a deep voice, "What is it?"
"Reporting to your Highness, hour of Yin2 is approaching. He Lian principal consort….."
Zhong Zheng Lin held Mu Xi Yao and gently stroke her back, "Let the female guard handle this matter."
Mu Xi Yao's eyelids fluttered in apparent drowsiness. She only heard "handle this matter". Soon after, sleepiness overtook her and she entered the world of dreams.
—-
He Lian Min Min was dazed for a long time before she turned her head to look at Zhong Zheng Lin who slept peacefully beside her. Yesterday…..
"Ah!" As she was going to turn over, the sharp pain coming from underneath caused her face to turn white. How come it was so painful?
"Awake?" Zhong Zheng Lin rose up. His tone eased as he looked at her, "Do you feel unwell?"
When He Lian Min Min met Zhong Zheng Lin's focused gaze, suddenly, she became embarrassed. Her face flushed red. Yesterday, she was too disappointing. His Highness's kiss has actually made her pass out! What followed after…when He Lian Min Min thought of the strange feeling coming from her lower parts, she was so embarrassed she wished to hide in the quilt and never see people.
Momos from the palace came in to take consummation handkerchief3 while congratulating to Zhong Zheng Lin and He Lian Min Min with faces beaming with smiles.
"This old servant expresses good wishes to your Highness and the principal consort on the harmonious union. May the two of you give birth to a son soon." After finishing, she respectfully retreated.
"Can you get up?" After the wedding night, the little woman has shamelessly slept until the afternoon, lying in the bed for the whole day. When Zhong Zheng Lin recalled Mu Xi Yao's finicky baby appearance, a tenderness appeared in his eyes.
Just as He Lian Min Min was abashed by Zhong Zheng Lin's too direct question, she found that the man's gaze carried a gentleness. His eyes that were fixed on hers were committed and full of indulgence.
He Lian Min Min had butterflies in her stomach. Her little face was crimson red, "It's alright. Qie will get well soon. May I trouble your Highness to wait a little?" When her words fell, she took a servant girl's hand and went to the bathroom to wash the face and rinse the mouth.
Once her clothes were taken off completely, not only the two servant girls had their faces flushed, even He Lian Min Min was greatly embarrassed. This….his Highness was a little too much! The purple patches on her body made He Lian Min Min's knees go soft. She quickly stepped into the bath to block the view of those shameful spots.
"Mistress, are you alright? Do you want to call Feng momo to come and take a look?" Bi Lan was worried inside. How come his sixth Highness behaved so brashly? The marks on her mistress's body so immodest. One could well imagine the circumstances yesterday.
"What nonsenses are you speaking about? Hurry up, we still need to go to the palace to pay respect." He Lian Min Min was elated inside the heart. Who said his sixth Highness was cold-hearted? Wasn't the pain she experienced right now the evidence that his Highness was satisfied with her? This step went on so smoothly. What will follow afterward will certainly turn out successfully. Since she was the principal wife and also had gained favor, what was there to fear of likes of lady Mu?
Mu Xi Yao who occupied other's mind was currently hugging the brocade quilt and dozing off. Zhong Zheng Lin had carried a clandestine affair for an amusement. Yet, he still didn't forget about breakfast. Early in the morning when the sky wasn't yet bright, she was pulled out of bed to have a meal with him. After he the lord cheerfully used his meal, took his arse and departed, she was left there light-headed and extremely sleepy. What's more, she couldn't even lie down to make up for the lost sleep. Instead, she could only lean against the chair to aid digestion and nap uncomfortably. In a moment, at the hour of Si4, she still had to go to Chanruo Courtyard to perform greetings. When Mu Xi Yao called to mind she was going out to meet people with such a terrible complexion, she longed to fall asleep and never again wake up.
Consort Shu told He Lian Min Min to rise with a smiling face when she saw her being helped up by others as her body swayed. Her younger son became sensible since he got the principal consort. The two naturally became an item, didn't they? And here she was, being concerned for a whole night. To her surprise, her younger son was very cooperating.
As she watched Zhong Zheng Lin sitting there insipidly, his face carrying no particular expression of joy, consort Shun's heart was as clear as day. At the very least, Zhong Zheng Lin had respect toward He Lian Min Min. He didn't put her into his heart nor mind. However, it wasn't a matter to worry about. Intimacy needs to be cultivated by mutual interaction. After they give birth to di son, the two will naturally be of one heart. Moreover, the principal wife, the mistress of the household, needed to pay particular attention to her dignified conduct, virtuous character, and generous spirit. It was already rare to be respected by the husband.
"There's no need for you to accompany bengong. Return early and set up rules. Since the estate got a proper mistress, the inner yard needs to have regulations. The newly arrived girls in the estate also have to be properly disciplined." What consort Shu implied was that she needn't be polite with that disappointing niece of hers.
He Lian Min Min's heart calmed down when she heard consort Shu's words. Having this one's support, her actions will be even more justified when the time to establish her foothold comes.
Zhong Zheng Lin heard the meaning behind consort Shu's words. She actually hasn't mentioned a word about Mu Xi Yao that least well-behaved one. It seems that Cheng Qing has completely won her over.
Translation notes:
[1] A moth that flies into the flame is a Chinese idiom that means a fatal attraction
[2] Hour of Yin is 3-5 AM
[3] Consumnation handkerchief is a handkerchief used to receive virgin blood, used in ancient times during the wedding night or when an imperial concubine serves for the first time
[4]Hour of Si means 9-11 AM
82
"Your Highness, qie has just arrived to the estate. Everything is still very unfamiliar to qie. How about to let cefei continue to take charge of the affairs in the estate? Qie will gradually take over duties."
"No need. If the name is not correct, the words will not ring true1. Whatever you don't understand, ask Tian Fu Shan.
"Yes." He Lian Min Min hung low her eyes. Her face carried a tiny smile.
Su Lin Rou in the Fang Hua Courtyard has scouted out the news that Zhong Zheng Lin took He Lian Min Min to the palace to thank for the grace.
"Consummation handkerchief has been already collected?" It seemed that his Highness wasn't like in the rumors, only gracing that woman from Danruo Courtyard"
"Come to attend to me. If I can't oppress He Lian Min Min, at least, I mustn't lose to Mu shi." Since lady He Lian has succeeded, it meant his Highness will sooner or later grace the inner yard. If she left a good impression today, things will be more convenient to her.
"Mistress, it's time to get up. Hour of Si2 is approaching." Mo Lan felt extremely helpless as she watched Mu Xi Yao dawdling in bed and not getting up. "Mistress, if you don't get up, how are you going to conduct a greeting rite when his Highness returns?"
Mu Xi Yao was already sober when she listened to Mo Lan's ceaseless chatter. It's just that she was lazy and didn't feel like moving. As soon as she heard Zhong Zheng Lin will return, she quickly sat up and called people to attend to her. She couldn't afford to lose her face by having Zhong Zheng Lin carrying her over on his shoulder.
"Sweetened honey water."
"When his Highness left, he has instructed you can use only lukewarm water." Hui Lan handed the cup to Mu Xi Yao, disregarding her face filled with dissatisfaction. Without words, she changed her clothes and combed her hair.
"Mistress, his Highness sent a sedan chair to pick you." When Zhao momo entered the house and saw Mu Xi Yao's insipid attire, she inwardly sighed to herself. Why did mistress place so little importance on this issue? No matter what, the principal consort was the official mistress of the estate.
In Chanruo Courtyard, Zhong Zheng Lin sat highly on the head seat. Next to him was He Lian Min Min surrounded by dignified and noble air.
Su Lin Rou along with the womenfolk she led successively sat down on their rightful places. Everyone in the room quietly waited for the only woman who was absent.
"Mu cefei is pregnant. It's only natural for her to arrive a little bit slower. Everyone take a seat, chat a bit and familiarize with each other."
Wan Jing Wen watched He Lian Min Min with her principal wife front. Her nails dug deeply into her flesh. For the time being, she will let her act smugly. Afterward, she will have lots of time to cry.
"Your Highness, when mother consort has mentioned about establishing the estate outside of the palace today, she said that the prince's residence will be built at the latest next month. The layout of little sisters courtyards should be according to the current one or any other arrangements should be made?"
Zhong Zheng Lin has waited for Mu Xi Yao's arrival for a long while. Just as he was guessing that woman was dawdling in the bed to goof off, he heard He Lian Min Min mention the residence outside of the palace. Hence, his attention was somewhat pulled back.
"What are your thoughts?" Zhong Zheng Lin asked for He Lian Min Min's opinion.
As He Lian Min Min was going to say she didn't like the name of Chanruo Courtyard which sounded quite cold and cheerless and wanted to change it to a more cheerful name, she heard Su Lin Rou say, "Big sister probably doesn't know. The name tablet of Chanruo Courtyard was personally bestowed by his Highness. Qie envies you greatly." Su Lin Rou kneaded her silk handkerchief, looking as if she also wanted to plead for one. His Highness seemed to somewhat care for the principal consort. How come when it was her turn, there was not even a bit of gesture from him? If it wasn't for that day when she accidentally saw chief steward Tian order people to hang up the tablet, she wouldn't have known her circumstances were so worrying.
She glanced at Zhong Zheng Lin begrudgingly only to see him also look over. For a moment, those beautiful eyes of hers exuded with tender affections, full of bashfulness.
Watching Su Lin Rou seducing his sixth Highness before her eyes, He Lian Min Min pressed her lips together. She mentioned no more about changing the name of the courtyard.
"Qie won't change qie's Danruo Courtyard for anything." Mu Xi Yao strode inside in an alluring yet graceful manner. The way she waved her circular fan carried a bit of a charming and sultry feel.
Everyone looked at cefei in the distance who was approaching them attired in a light muslin dress of a dark indigo color. The corners of her lips were curled up into a beautiful smile, the pair of her eyes limpid.
He Lian Min Min's expression tensed. What a witch! No wonder his Highness was spellbound by her and favored her solely for two years. Wan Jing Wen's expression suddenly changed. She hastily lowered her heed to cover up her discomposure. Su Lin Rou clenched tightly both of her hands. She was so infuriated she wished to tear to crumbles her doxy smile. There were so many people in the house, yet she chose the skirt of the same color as her! She came to annoy her, didn't she?
One step, one sway, Mu Xi Yao arrived before them. When she saw the warning in Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes, she knew that the boss had been waiting for too long, he was already impatient.
"Qie pays respect to your Highness and the principal consort." As she spoke, she was about to bend her knees to curtsy. Just, her movements were so slow that it amused Zhong Zheng Lin. This was little woman's "acts of conceit out of master's good graces"? Promising girl!
"Mu shi is pregnant. There's no need for politesse." The sixth Highness spoke before He Lian Min Min could react.
Mu Xi Yao's raised abdomen already irritated He Lian Min Min greatly. When she saw her also secretly flirt with Zhong Zheng Lin, she kept the cool eyes of a bystander. Just as she intended to put Mu Xi Yao in her place and take time to tell her to rise, Zhong Zheng Lin's protective feelings for the fairer sex interfered her plans. Now, all of her good moods were gone.
"Qie thanks your Highness for showing solicitude." Mu Xi Yao softly thanked him. As soon as she raised her head, she cast Zhong Zheng Lin a coquettish protest. Immediately after she entered inside, boss bestowed her favor. At least, she doesn't have to put on a play so exhaustingly.
Everyone saw that since Mu cefei came in, his highness's gaze was firmly captured by her, not leaving her even for a moment. What's more, he looked after her a lot. He specially changed a regular chair with a daybed3 for her to sit. The two made sheep eyes at each other, being very intimate.
"If you don't want to change, then keep it." Zhong Zheng Lin nodded in assent. The meaning behind the name of Danruo Courtyard was chosen after long contemplation. It happens to complement well with little woman's successive news of pregnancy.
Watching the two speak with each other and reach an agreement in no time while disregarding her the principal consort, He Lian Min Min became displeased inside. On the surface, she smiled affectionately and complied, saying that the same applies to the whole inner yard, to avoid adding troubles.
"Elder cousin! I don't want to stay in Shuhui Courtyard, that filthy place. How can people habit that place? Its name is ominous, too." Zeng Yu has entered the estate only for two days. However, how can she bear to live in Tang Yi Ru's domain? Previously, she tried to barge into Zhong Zheng Lin's study twice. Yet, both times she was stopped by Wei Zhen. Since she has found an opportunity now, how was she willing to let it slip by?
Zhong Zheng Lin watched Zeng Yu's fuss with indifference. He instructed He Lian Min Min, "Deeming her as Zeng shi will suffice."
He Lian Min Min was a bit surprised. Originally, she thought he would request her to take a bit of care of her. In the end, this Zeng Yu was this much disliked by his Highness. Elder cousin? Humph! As long as she doesn't have favor, no matter how she intimately calls him, it's usualness.
"Since Zeng shi's courtyard is personally appointed by his Highness then there's no need to change it." Originally, He Lian Min Min thought it was due to his Highness's grace that a concubine could dwell in shufei's courtyard. Now it seems that Zeng Yu had violated a taboo.
Since He Lian Min Min rejected her request, Zeng Yu became so infuriated her complexion turned livid. Blast, you lady He Lian. She's come only for a day and she already wanted to use her as her stepping stone to establish her prestige? She secretly decided to enter the palace to complain tearfully on the next day and have her aunt stand up for her.
By looking at Zeng Yu's expression Mu Xi Yao immediately knew what she planned. She just felt amazed. Did this woman have a brain? How come up until now she still couldn't see her clearly circumstances?
Putting Zeng Yu aside, her proper business was more urgent. Today she specially came to put on airs.
"Your Highness, qie came late. Has tea been already served?" While at the doorway, Mu Xi Yao heard He Lian Min Min mention the inscribed board. Did she want to change it? Even if she wanted, it depended on whether Zhong Zheng Lin was willing or not. The sixth Highness's "Chanruo4" word had deep meaning behind it. It was just unknown whether He Lian Min Min could appreciate it or not.
"Not yet. We've been just waiting for little sister." He Lian Min Min interrupted her. She couldn't let her keep engaged in talks with his Highness like this. Lady Mu was using this chance to show off, gloating her favor in front of the newcomers. Since she the principal wife was here, there was no room for her to establish prestige. Although she won't directly confront her, she also won't tolerate her impudence.
Once He Lian Min Min ordered people to bring tea, Su Lin Rou gracefully came to the front. While serving Zhong Zheng Lin tea, she kept sending him endearing glances with her bewitching eyes that were full of coquetry.
He Lian Min Min's heart was engulfed by deep resentfulness. She hasn't yet fixed lady Mu and here comes even more shameless Su Lin Rou. Subsequently, she looked at lady Qi and Lady Kong underneath. They've also gorgeously dressed themselves. In this inner yard, apart from wooden and stiff lady Wu, no one seemed to be capable to bring her peace of mind.
After lady Wan served her tea and has attentively examined Mu Xi Yao from a close distance, she became even more certain. This woman must be rid of!
The moment evil thoughts flooded her heart, the jade pendant on Mu Xi Yao's chest abruptly began to give off warning signals.
Mu Xi Yao was taken by shock. She secretly inspected her surroundings. Yet, she only saw a few servant girls tiding up teacups and bringing over fruits. The jade pendant also lied down the flag and still the drum5, having no more reactions.
Who was it? That kind of scalding temperature was similar to the assassination of The Flying Guillotine she came across last time. It was an intention to kill! Could it be that the pawn of the An Guo Duke House was involved?
Mu Xi Yao began to pay attention, carefully taking note of everyone in the room.
After all the things were done, He Lian Min Min smiled and asked Zhong Zheng Lin whether he wished to have a meal in the main house.
"Danruo Courtyard has already prepared the meal. Principal consort only needs to arrange dinner." After Zhong Zheng Lin finished, he took leave first with Mu Xi Yao.
He Lian Min Min's heart clenched with his mention of Danruo Courtyard. However, when she heard he will come back to the main house for dinner, she relaxed. It seems that lady Mu's immense favor wasn't easy to shake. Fortunately, it was during the first three days. At least, his Highness will take into consideration her face. What will be circumstances afterward depended on each woman's ability.
When Wan Jing Wen returned to her room, she calmed herself and began to contemplate. He Lian Min Min's foundation was already destroyed. She wasn't worth of worry. That lady Mu….should she sound her out or not?
Translation notes:
[1] If the name is not correct, the words will not ring true is a Chinese idiom that means without righteous reason
[2] Hour of Si means 9-11 AM
[3] Daybed – open-frame platform (click here for more information)
[3] Chanruo consist of two Chinese characters 禅 "Chan" which means meditation and 若 "Ruo" – to seem/like
[4] Lay down the flag and still the drum is a Chinese idiom meaning to cease
83
"Are you tired?" Half hugging half carrying, Zhong Zheng Lin took Mu Xi Yao back to Danruo Courtyard.
"Qie's alright. This baby is much more well-behaved than when qie expected Cheng Qing." Mu Xi Yao leaned against Zhong Zheng Lin's bosom and let him stroke gently her belly.
"After establishing the residence, bendian will depart to the province of Shu. When the time arrives, bendian most likely won't be able to make it in time for your childbirth." Zhong Zheng Lin's brows were knitted deeply, particularly worried. Last time when Mu Xi Yao went to labor, he was there to oversee everything. Nothing was to be concerned about. This time, the inner yard was more complex due to new members. In addition, there was the pawn of House of Duke An Guo lurking in the shadow. He Lian Min Min couldn't possibly look after Mu Xi Yao wholeheartedly. As a result, the little woman would be in a vulnerable position. Furthermore, she was going to give birth to a child. Mu Xi Yao was in a very dangerous situation.
"How about sending you to Mu residence when bendian leaves? At the time, sir Mu should have already arrived at Shengjin and taken the post."
"No. If House of Duke of Anguo was going to make a move, as soon as qie leaves the prince's residence, nothing would hold them back. How about discussing this matter with mother-consort? Qie will go to her place half a month before the childbirth and inconvenience her for a few days."
Zhong Zheng Lin frowned. Consort Shu's palace appeared to be safe. In fact, each palace had their moles planted there. If noble consort used the opportunity to put her hands on Mu Xi Yao, they would be defenseless.
"This arrangement is inappropriate. There are noble consort's spies in mother-consort's palace."
Mu Xi Yao gritted her teeth. Did Zhong Zheng Lin not pluck the moles? Could it be he wanted to turn the tables on them?
If noble consort wanted to secretly make a move, she needed to, at least, be able to not get herself implicated! Mu Xi Yao's lips curled up into a crafty smile. She was very happy to pull someone into the water1.
In the evening, Zhong Zheng Lin went to Chanruo Courtyard to accompany He Lian Min Min and have a meal with her. The two behaved according to propriety, no word was exchanged between them. He Lian Min Min inwardly took note that Zhong Zheng Lin consumed only a bit of bamboo shoots. He didn't touch the special heat-relieving soup she has prepared. She became anxious inside.
"Your Highness, does the soup not suit your taste?" If his Highness doesn't get accustomed to food in Chanruo Courtyard, things would be anything but reassuring for her.
"In the afternoon, bendian used a bit more of the soup. These are enough for the moment." Zhong Zheng Lin was a man, after all. He didn't understand a woman's mind. The only person he cared about, Mu Xi Yao, was someone who spoke whatever was on her mind. If she didn't want to talk, she would give him an attitude. He need not to deliberately figure her out. However, He Lian Min Min who was sitting opposite him wasn't as easy-going as Mu Xi Yao. She could only bury inside the heart all of her unpleasant feelings.
In Danruo Courtyard, he ate comfortably and drank more of the soup. In her place, however, he took only a few bites and already lost appetite. He Lian Min Min thought she could control her emotions and remain cool-headed. Only when did things happen did she realize that she had overestimated herself. He was clearly in the Chanruo Courtyard. Yet, everywhere was that woman's shadow! Holding back the grievances she was feeling inside the heart, He Lian Min Min got up and attended to Zhong Zheng Lin with freshening up.
After the two properly tidied themselves, He Lian Min Min served tea and sat beside Zhong Zheng Lin. She seemed to wish to speak something but hesitated.
"Is something troubling you?"
He Lian Min Min's expression carried a bit of uneasiness. Feigning calmness, she inquired, "Your Highness, should the gracing system be arranged in the inner yard?" This was something all the principal wives had to ask. No matter how unwilling they were, they had to swallow the unwillingness and ask for their husband's instructions.
Zhong Zheng Lin closed his phoenix eyes for a moment. When he saw her restless appearance, he told her insipidly, "On the first and the fifteenth day, bendian will stay at your chamber. The remaining days, you needn't care about." Mu Xi Yao that woman wished eagerly for him to fail his promise and give up. Like he will let that happen!
He Lian Min Min was originally only abiding her duty as a legal wife, overseeing the inner court. To her surprise, she had unexpectedly received Zhong Zheng Lin's promise. For a moment, she was beside herself with joy.
The fact that Zhong Zheng Lin was willing to follow the ancestor's custom was already an extremely extraordinary thing. It was rumored that among imperial princes, only the fourth prince still looked after the princess consort's prestige. Every month, he would visit her on schedule. The rest princes would either grace their favorite concubines or rest in their beautiful entertainers' place. In what way did they respect their principal consorts? To say a word of impudence, even the current Emperor doesn't rest at palace quarters of step empress2 during the first or fifteenth month. In any case, there was still the word "step" to cover this misconduct. The imperial censors had no good reason to admonish Emperor.
"Qie thanks for your Highness's mindfulness." He Lian Min Min felt extremely content. Under the influence of her feelings, she slowly leaned her body against Zhong Zheng Lin's arms.
Seeing the rims of her eyes redden, Zhong Zheng Lin understood that she felt grateful for his respect. He sighed inwardly. Unfortunately, she wasn't the one his mind was filled with. In the end, he could only attend to one side. He gently held her shoulder and moved the person away.
"There's no need for politeness between husband and wife." The most difficult thing to enjoy was beauty's gratitude.
Zhong Zheng Lin got up and glanced at the water clock. He turned to instruct her, "It's still early. Bendian will go to the study and will return later."
He Lian Min Min was pushed away by him. She felt like cool water has chilled the warmth inside her. She could only helplessly watch the man's tall and straight back disappear from outside the door. The woman hung down head and secretly gnashed her teeth.
She mustn't be discouraged. If one had no favor and became a princess consort in name only, only hardship will befall her! Although this road was difficult, it was still early. As long as she removed that hindrance that was blocking her path, she doesn't believe she won't be able to enter Zhong Zheng Lin's heart. All of the problems at the moment was merely due to "pearls and jades in the past3"!
When Zhong Zheng Lin came out from the main house, he didn't go to the study as he said. Instead, he made a detour halfway and within several breaths' time, he reached outside of the Danruo Courtyard.
Mu Xi Yao watched the man stride in. She smiled and rose up to greet him. As soon as she closed to him, she smelt a faint scent of artemisia fragrance. She immediately began to sneeze endlessly.
At first, Zhong Zheng Lin didn't know the cause. Seeing her unwell, he quickly went to help her sit down. To his surprise, Mu Xi Yao not only didn't get well, but she also pushed him away with eyes gleaming with tears, drawing away from him with all her might. In the end, her whole body flushed. She desperately called for Zhao momo and Mo Lan.
"Master!" Mo Lan was startled. She supported her up and headed toward the bath.
"Your Highness, dicots plants upset cefei. Last time in consort Shu's palace, mistress has unconsciously smelt only a little bit of scent and her whole body immediately turned red. At that time, your Highness was still in the military barracks. Thus, this incident had not been reported." Zhao momo quickly explained as she saw Zhong Zheng Lin's blackened face.
Zhong Zheng Lin was already displeased for being pushed away by Mu Xi Yao. Once he heard a fragrance being mentioned, how can he not understand? He tore away the outer garment and went to the side chamber to take a bath.
When he came out again, Mu Xi Yao was much better. Her body has recovered. It was just her exquisite nose was being rubbed into a pitifully red color.
Looking at Zhong Zheng Lin's brows that were locked tightly together, Mu Xi Yao pouted and pulled at his hand. Then, she threw herself into the man's embrace, "It's alright, a small ailment from childhood. Qie almost forgot about it."
Heck, as if she could forget about it! This wasn't her problem nor this body had a sickness. Rather, her predecessor was allergic. This inexplicable ailment almost made Mu Xi Yao, who never had a similar experience before, swear. How can the effectiveness of the spiritual pill be so superficial? Will it die if it conveniently made up for deficiencies in other aspects?
Although due to the protection of the spiritual pill her inflammation won't flare up, the little problems as sneezing and flushed skin were still uncomfortable.
Zhong Zheng Lin stroked gently her head. He became angry with He Lian Min Min's act of intimacy. In the past, he heard her mention disliking poor quality perfume all the time. As it turns out, it truly wasn't an excuse. Inside the heart, he was dissatisfied that Mu Xi Yao hid this matter. He caught her and planted a kiss on her forehead.
"Today was exhausting. Settle early." He carried her back to the inner room and then went out to deal with the aftermath.
"Burn the outer robe. Send a message to Tian Fu Shan that all perfumes from dicots plants are to be classified as a prohibited item."
"Your Highness, are you not going back?" Mu Xi Yao asked with a muffled voice while being embraced by Zhong Zheng Lin.
"Still feeling uncomfortable?" When he heard her speak, her voice was still heavy laced with nasal sound. Zhong Zheng Lin got up and was going to call for the imperial physician.
Mu Xi Yao quickly stopped him. Her little hand rested on his big hand. She needed only to ensure her wellbeing a little.
Asking for an imperial physician for stuffed nose and sneezing? She couldn't subject herself to such embarrassment.
Seeing her in good spirit, Zhong Zheng Lin could finally be at ease. He unfastened his gown and pressed her against his chest, holding her there tightly.
"Bendian's Jiao Jiao suffered without any justified reason. It's only natural for you to entangle ceaselessly with bendian. Bendian is worried and cherishes Jiao Jiao. As a result, bendian cannot bear to leave." Zhong Zheng Lin's words were measured. His excuse for not returning to Chanruo Courtyard was all placed on Mu Xi Yao.
Mu Xi Yao bowed down to the upgrade of Zhong Zheng Lin's skill of lying through his teeth. This man knew how to exploit her well. Even an ordinary allergy became an excuse for his unwillingness to step into the inner yard. She didn't have to think to know that He Lian Min Min's face won't look good tomorrow.
"Your Highness, since qie has suffered today, tomorrow qie doesn't have to pay principal consort respect and spoil her mood, right?" What annoyed her the most about He Lian Min Min entering the estate was that she had to go over and pay her respect early in the morning. What the hell was with this custom?! One slept early in the morning and did not hold a meeting instead!
Zhong Zheng Lin buried his head at the side of her neck. He chuckled. The biggest resentment the little woman harbored toward He Lian Min Min was that she couldn't get enough of sleep.
"Bendian will grant Jiao Jiao's request."
Inside the chamber, the two fell asleep while being in each other's embrace. He Lian Min Min in Chanruo Courtyard was so infuriated her head throbbed.
"Reporting to princess consort, his Highness send this servant over to deliver a message. His Highness will rest at Mu cefei's quarters tonight. May princess consort settle soon."
"In addition, artemisia plant is now classified as a forbidden item. People are prohibited to grow or use the perfume made by this plant."
Whenever she recalled the message Tian Fu Shan came to specially deliver, He Lian Min Min's heart would clench with a suffocating pain. She went too far! That lady Mu clearly wished to use this opportunity to start a provocation and disgrace her!
She's just married over. Yet, that lady Mu already dared to take the person from her house. Did she forgot about the distinction between senior and junior? His Highness has promised he will return in a moment. However, that lady Mu had played tricks and deceived him over!
He Lian Min Min looked at festive decoration that hasn't been removed yet from the room. She only felt they offended her eyes. Tomorrow was the third day of the wedding, a bride's bride's return to her parental home. Yet, his Highness didn't mention it so far. He has already settled. Could it be that she had to learn to be like those lowly wenches and barge her way in to intercept the person?
When she arrived, she was still full of ambition and even told her family to be at ease. She was here for less than two days and has already suffered several consecutive blows. How was she going to explain it to her family tomorrow? Don't tell her that she had to tell her mother, your daughter is useless. Already on the second day of the wedding, she couldn't keep his Highness at her quarters.
Translator's notes:
I'm currently revisioning earlier chapters of TBIC. There are some translated words I'm not satisfied with (related to their accuracy), so I'm gradually changing them. As a result, those who re-read those chapters may find differences in the text. Hope it won't spoil your reading experience!
Translation notes:
[1] Pull someone into the water is a Chinese idiom meaning to involve sb in a messy business/ to get sb into trouble
[2] Step Empress is referred to the imperial noble consort in time when there's no empress in the palace and she, in fact, administers the inner palace
[3] Pearls and jades in the past is a Chinese idiom meaning there was already a very outstanding person/work in the past for comparison
84
"Mistress, just now chief steward came to announce that his Highness had been urgently summoned to the East Palace by the crown prince. He asks you to go back to the parental house first. His Highness will come later." The chief maidservant Gui Li replied carefully.
"Tell people to make preparation. We'll set off immediately." He Lian Min Min straightened the dangling hairpin on her head while ordering with a low voice.
His Highness had three days off after the grand wedding. Yet, the crown prince specially picked this day to call the person?
—–
"What do you think, sixth brother?" The crown prince was attired in the bright-yellow brocade gown, an unconcealed smugness engaged his face.
Zhong Zheng Lin looked at the content of the memorial before him, his expression serious. The crown prince actually wanted to meddle in this matter?!
"Second brother, this would be inappropriate. The war in Movie is within sight. It's not sensible to push waves at such time1.."
The crown prince was in high spirit right now. Zhong Zheng Lin's remarks made his face turn cold.
"This matter concerns the foundation of Great Wei's ruling. How can it be put off and concealed? Could it be the sixth brother thinks civil officials are inferior to military officials?"
Zhong Zheng Lin frowned, "This matter can be postponed."
The crown prince's complexion became completely gloomy. They, indeed, weren't of one mind. Previously, he still could use him as his tool. Now, he had the impertinence to openly go against his orders, "That being the case, I won't bother sixth brother with this matter."
He ordered people to send Zhong Zheng Lin out of the estate. However, he suddenly smiled and patted him on the shoulder, "The second brother hasn't yet properly congratulated you on your grand wedding. When you get free time, second brother will visit you and have a few drinks with you."
"This subject brother is greatly honored."
Zhong Zheng Lin softly shut his eyes inside the prince's carriage. His lips curled up into a smile. This move of the crown prince was really unexpected. He had saved him a lot of works. Since someone was rushing to take this job, he should get out as early as possible.
"Ye Kai, head to the He Lian House."
"Yes, your Highness."
—–
Inside the He Lian House, lady He Lian looked at her daughter's glowing face filled with smiles. At last, she could be at ease.
"Since his Highness is considerate toward you, be sure to remember that heirs come first. You mustn't act on a moment of anger and spoil the overall situation."
"Madam, princess consort, his sixth Highness arrived. Sir asks you to go over and greet him." Outside the door, a manservant hastily came to report.
Lady He Lian was quite gratified that Zhong Zheng Lin came on time in spite of being called away by the crown prince. At least, it's apparent his Highness was satisfied with He Lian Min Min.
Inside the carriage that was heading back, Liu Qing hesitated for quite a while before speaking out, "Mistress, why didn't you tell madam about your hardship in the residence? Since madam is able to govern He Lian House neatly, she will surely be able to help you out."
A complicated expression appeared on He Lian Min Min's face. After a long time, she sighed, "He Lian House is a century-old nobility. What they valued the most was never any particular daughter. It was the one who was most useful to them. Don't forget, there's far more than one miss of He Lian House."
Although mother was the legal wife, there were still two secondary wives eying her position covetously. Both of the two wives of the previous Marquis of Jing An came from the main branch of He Lian clan. As for why the first why had a sudden outburst of an old illness and was substituted by the second wife, He Lian Min Min was very clear about it. The cruelty of a big clan was no less frightening than the struggle in the inner yard.
Compared to her mother's sincere love, to grandfather and father clan always came first. At the moment, her position in the prince's residence wasn't stable yet. Thus, how could she expose her own shortcoming?
"You absolutely mustn't send in private the inside information of the prince's residence back home. Otherwise, don't blame me for disregarding our decade long master and servant affections." He Lian Min Min gloomily looked at her two chief-maidservants inside the carriage and warned them.
—–
A few days later, the crown prince personally presented Yuancheng Emperor a memorial which brought to light the fraud of metropolitan civil service examination during the thirteenth year of Zhanghe. The whole court was astonished. This matter had implications of huge proportions. The number of the exam candidates and proctors involved in the case was as many as one hundred and thirty-seven.
Yuancheng Emperor was furious. He issued an imperial order where the Ministry of Justice was in charge of the investigation and the Department of Investigation was responsible for collecting evidence. Afterward, for the majority of the month, Shengjing was raging with dark tides2.. High officials of the third rank were successively dismissed.
"What else have you to say!" In the imperial study, Yuacheng Emperor used his leg to kick Zhong Zheng Chun's left shoulder, knocking the person to the ground.
"Imperial father, it has nothing to do with subject-son. This subject son is being accused unjustly. The crown prince has never been in good terms with this subject-son. Everyone knows this! It's surely his set-up. He won't be satisfied with nothing less than this subject-son's destruction!" Zhong Zheng Chun's liver and gall both seemed to be torn from within3. He was so terror-stricken tears streamed down his face. He hugged Yuancheng Emperor's left leg tenaciously and loudly complained against injustice.
"What do you mean, first brother? Can it be possible that you want to frame and make false charges against me, the crown prince? Imperial father, the first brother's advisors who are imprisoned in the prison of the Ministry of Justice have confessed. They all told the same story. How can we brook him to deny?" The crown prince pointed at Zhong Zheng Chun on the ground who lacked human appearance, chiding him sternly. He kept enumerating his several major offenses. He was in a mood where he wished to kick Zhong Zheng Chun into the death row.
Zhong Zheng Lin watched the two's dispute grew in intensity while preserving the cool eye of a bystander.
"Imperial father, the crown prince wishes to cut weeds and eliminate the roots4 because this subject son grasps in the hand the proof of him accepting bribes and conferring official ranks for money. The fact that no one else had noticed anything and that only he managed to expose such a shocking case says it all. Clearly, there is something rather strange about it. He must be harboring unfathomable motives! Since this case implicates so many people, the crown prince certainly must have hidden forces in hands conspiring for already a long time. His motives are execrable!"
Seeing the two sons wishing to deliver a vital blow to each other, Yauncheng Emperor was so enraged he lifted his hand and smashed the paperweights on the table toward the two.
"You two disgraceful things that fail to comprehend benevolence and righteousness, courtesy and filial piety!"
When everyone saw Yuancheng Emperor break into wrath, they promptly kneeled down and pleaded for forgiveness, not daring to rush indiscriminately into action.
"Imperial father, this subject son wasn't the only one to detect this matter. The sixth imperial brother was already aware of it. However, he secretly hid it. He knew the facts yet didn't report them." As soon as the crown prince seized the opportunity, he immediately pulled Zhong Zheng Lin into the water5. and made false countercharges against him.
Yuancheng Emperor's gaze was penetrating. He looked straight into Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes. The sovereign's mighty air was fully out.
Zhong Zheng Lin knelt straight as a ramrod, not cowering at all. He turned a blind eye to the clamoring crown prince at the side.
"On the day when this subject son was supposed to visit the bride's parental home after the grand marriage, the crown prince had called this subject son to his estate. We've been discussing submitting the memorial about the fraud case. Prior to this, this subject son had no knowledge of this matter. After reading the memorial, the crown prince wished to present it. This subject son merely said to put the interests of the war in Mobei above everything else. We may as well submit it later. This subject son had no intention to deceive others."
"How can be this huge fraudulent case be put off? Could it be the sixth brother wishes to help someone clear the discharges?" The crown prince's gaze swept back and forth between Zhong Zheng Chun and Zhong Zheng Lin as if pointing at something.
"Moreover, the fifth brother's in-laws are also among the involved and investigated officials. Could it be this subject son is capable of framing imperial brothers all by myself?"
Yuancheng Emperor looked at his sons who were kneeling underneath. Except for the fourth who had an ear condition and hence couldn't be drawn in, the rest of them were all involved. Yuancheng Emperor swept over everyone an extremely complicated gaze, his expression unreadable.
"Gu Chang De!"
"This servant is here."
"Confine everyone into An Yuan Hall. Nobody is allowed to visit without the imperial order." Once his words fell, he left with flung of his sleeves.
Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes narrowed. He immediately comprehended the meaning behind this order. This time, Yuancheng Emperor will, without doubt, investigate thoroughly each residence. Within a short time, he won't be able to leave An Yuan Hall. Since he was being isolated, the forces secretly planted in the residence will inevitably get restless. He wondered if it was possible for He Lian Min Min to handle it. The imperial prince's inner yard mustn't fall into disarray.
—–
"What did you say?" He Lian Min Min rose up in fright.
"Replying to the principal consort, his Highness is being confined in Yu An Hall by his Majesty. He won't be able to return for few days. Nobody in the estate is allowed to visit without the imperial order." Tian Fu Shan was so anxious his forehead perspired with sweat. Immediately after he received the news, he rushed to Chanruo Courtyard to ask for ideas.
Consort Shu has already sent a message. Yuancheng Emperor strictly prohibited the inner palace to plead for leniency. Whoever violated the order will be punished severely.
No matter how good education He Lian Min Min had at home, she was still a mere woman. When has she run into such a big matter? For a moment, she was struck with a panic, being out of her wits. The prohibition came from Yuancheng Emperor. Even her father dared not to disobey it. It wasn't something she could handle.
"This…..This…" He Lian Min Min clenched her hands tightly. Her face turned pale, "What do we do?"
Seeing that principal consort He Lian was distraught, her mind thrown into disarray, Tian Fu Shan's heart became even more anxious. It will take mister another day to return to Shengjing. Could it be they could only wait drily at the moment? Unfortunately, the princess consort has entered the estate for a short period of time and they were left powerless.
The chief steward came out of Chanruo Courtyard with an anxious appearance. Halfway the journey, he suddenly called to mind about that too lazy to look after the affairs' Mu cefei! Mistress Yao was usually unreliable. However, since she was regarded highly by his Highness, she must have some capabilities, right? With no better option left, Tian Fu Shan could only make a detour and head to Danruo Courtyard.
Mu Xi Yao looked at Tian Fun Shan with furrowed brows. The movement of the circular fan in her hand stopped.
Zhong Zheng Lin was put into house arrest by his old man? Don't tell her, his subordinates slacked in their works and gave themselves away?
"Since his Highness is confined in An Yuan Hall, where is the first prince?"
"Apart from his fourth Highness, all the princes who have been summoned to the imperial study today are confined in one place."
Mu Xi Yao's heart relaxed. Since they were all imprisoned, what was there for her to worry? It seems that Yuancheng Emperor wanted to fully investigate this matter. The reason he has detained everyone was to prevent them from coordinating with forces outside and leak out the information.
Did Yuancheng Emperor wish to catch them unprepared? Or did he wanted to use this as bait to lure more of fish to the hook? Mu Xi Yao wasn't fond of a sovereign's art of politics. Always coming up with such a peculiar behavior, it was too annoying.
"His Majesty wants to fish. We mustn't foolishly hop on the bait." Mu Xi Yao spoke leisurely while remaining poised.
"From today onward, the sixth prince's residence denies any visitors. Whoever in the estate dares to go out or in without permission and smuggle out a message will be — caned to death!"
Tian Fu Shan looked at Mu Xi Yao sitting quietly on the daybed. Upon a glance, she was like a person from an ink painting, peaceful and beautiful. Yet, her words were firm and resolute, bloody and ruthless. The chief steward quivered out of scare and subsequently broke into a sweat.
Was this the real mistress Yao? She actually resembled his Highness to some degree. When she spoke of taking another person's life, her brows didn't even frown. She was indeed scary.
Translation notes:
[1] Push waves mean to cause/trigger a disturbance
[2] Raging with dark tide means a dangerous situation/critical circumstances were lurking
[3] One's liver and gall both seemed torn from within is a Chinese idiom meaning overwhelmed by grief or terror
[4] To cut weeds and eliminate the roots is a Chinese idiom meaning to eliminate someone completely
[5] To pull sb into the water is a Chinese idiom meaning to involve sb in a messy business
85
The imprisonment of the imperial princes in the palace instantly threw the womenfolk of each residence into a panic, making them run everywhere to find ways to pull some strings. Noble and gentry clans in Shengjing were all shaken, too. Many of them gathered together and ganged up.
The only exception was the sixth prince's residence that had tightly closed gates. One could not catch sparrows on their doorsteps1. Upon a glance, it looked as if the people of the sixth prince's residence were gone and the place was empty. There was not even one servant going in or out to be seen.
"Mu'shi, what's the meaning of this?" As soon as He Lian Min Min burst in, she saw Mu Xi Yao leisurely teasing two rabbits. She became so angry her eyes turned red.
When Mu Xi Yao saw He Lian Min Min grace her in person, she got up to welcome her, "Since principal consort has personally graced Danruo Courtyard, qie should properly receive you." She ordered Mo Lan to serve tea. All smiles, she asked He Lian Min Min to take a seat.
Unexpectedly, He Lian Min Min didn't appreciate her kindness. With pairs of eyes brimming with tears and shaking hands, she pointed at Mu Xi Yao and showered her with scolding.
"You times and again hinder me from going out of the palace to seek help. His Highness's deep favor was wasted on you. In a critical time, he receives such a reciprocation from you!"
Although He Lian Min Min married over only for few days, she understood clearly that all of her prospects laid on Zhong Zheng Lin from now on. Now that the sixth Highness was in difficulty, how could she watch with folded arms2? This woman not only won't step in and take some actions, but she also won't let her go back to He Lian House and seek help from her father. She clearly cannot bear to see her make contributions at the time of his Highness's hardship!
What angered He Lian Min Min the most was Mu Xi Yao's ignorance of the gravity of the situation. Before she strives for a favor, why doesn't she look at what is the current situation? If something happened to his Highness, will the residence have a good time?
While the two crossed swords, Su Lin Rou hurriedly arrived with her maidservants. As soon as she came in, she started a heart-wrenching cry.
"Mu'shi, you actually dare to retaliate me in private by beating the servant girl I sent to Su House near death. Princess consort, you have to grant justice to qie. While the prince's residence is being tossed about by the wind and rain3, not only she won't put forward any plans nor ideas, she actually goes as far as to seize the opportunity to eliminate her opponents and oppress the inner yard!"
Su Lin Rou cried until her liver and guts cut to pieces4. The person servants behind her carried was the maid Tian Fu Shan ordered people to beat badly.
Mu Xi Yao's brows knitted when she listened to her exaggerating words. Zhong Zheng Lin was still well in the palace. Yet, according to her the prince's residence was being "tossed about by the wind and rain"?
He Lian Min Min listened to her insolent words. Su Lin Rou actually cursed the prince's residence, saying that it hung by a thread. Was she pointing at the mulberry tree and curse the locust tree5, implying that she just married over and has already brought an ill fortune upon the whole residence? He Lian Min Min became so enraged she slapped Su Lin Rou in the face, hitting so hard the person fell on the ground, unable to recover for half a day.
"The prince's residence is very stable. It won't tolerate you sputtering presumptuous words!"
As Mu Xi Yao watched these two women make the whole courtyard's atmosphere turn murky, she felt extremely helpless.
Well done, Zhong Zheng Lin! Not only he isn't satisfied with stirring troubles for her. He also brings with himself a bunch of love debts. At the moment, he's enjoying peaceful days in the palace while turning her courtyard into a complete mess.
Mu Xi Yao ordered Zhao momo to call Tian Fu Shan and have him quickly bring the person over. She, on the other hand, sat steadily on the seat at the outer room and let Su Lin Rou roll on the ground while screaming.
When Tian Fu Shan took the person and hastily arrived at Danruo Courtyard, what he saw was mistress Yao contentedly sitting under the shadow of a tree, at her feet two cheerfully hopping rabbits sent by his Highness. He Lian principal consort was supported by people. Her complexion turned livid from the anger while her lips were white. Su cefei wept endlessly. She knelt on the ground and kept wiping her tears.
Tian Fu Shan's brows beaded with sweat. What a disaster, he thought to himself. This kind of situation wasn't something he could possibly handle. Since his Highness was absent, the biggest master in the residence was He Lian principal consort. Unfortunately, the principal consort couldn't suppress mistress Yao's imposing aura and was pushed to the sidelines.
Yesterday, mister came back. He praised greatly and approved of mistress Yao's actions. It would be better to listen to cefei for now. Once his Highness returns, he will report back to him what had happened by then.
"Sent Su cefei back to Fanhua Courtyard. She's not allowed out of the courtyard till his Highness doesn't return. As for principal consort, qie will have trouble chief steward to personally send her back. Qie asks big sister to stay at Chanruo Courtyard and set the mind at rest. Qie doesn't wish to have an "overstepping the principal consort's authority" reputation befall on qie's head."
Tian Fu Shan quickly did as he was instructed and saw He Lian principal consort with an incredulous expression off to the door. Shortly afterward, he ordered people to quickly drag away the wailing and scolding lady Su.
Once Danru Courtyard again quietened, Mu Xi Yao got up to go and attend to her son.
What Yuancheng Emperor currently wanted was for them to jump over the wall like a cornered dog6 and hop directly to the pit he dug for them. She wasn't as foolish as to walk blindly.
According to Zhong Zheng Lin's confidentially laid out plans and Di Wu Yi Zhao's exceptional executions, how could they be so easily exposed?
In the current circumstance, the wisest move was to take a quiet approach. Wasn't He Lian Min Min's own father, He Lian Zhang, also quite calm, having not the slightest bit of movement? How come his daughter failed to live up to him?
However, she had a whole new level of respect for that newly arrived lady Wan. This person didn't act on her anxiety or impatience, nor did she cause any troubles. She strictly followed rules in the residence. She didn't even come out of her courtyard, only dispatching people to the front yard every day to make discreet inquiries about Zhong Zheng Lin's wellbeing.
As for the rest of concubines. Zeng Yu has been confined by her long time ago. Lady Kong and Lady Qi were so frightened they lost energy to make a fuss. However, there were two people whom Mu Xi Yao had paid attention to. One was the newly arrived lady An and the other was the law-abiding lady Wu.
Both of them were silent, without any action. However, this wasn't something a simple "guileless" could explain. Such a big thing has befallen the prince's residence, yet these two were as steady as ever. When one's presence was too weak it often produced the opposite of the desired result.
Since Zhong Zheng Lin has been confined, Mu Xi Yao has done her utmost in the prince's residence. With all the other things, she was unable to help however much she would like to.
—
When Yuancheng Emperor looked at the recent reports from each residence, his face was as black as an ink. This time, his sudden idea of inspection has unexpectedly brought him many surprises.
The first prince and the crown prince's people were the most active ones. Even the womenfolk in their residences were busy to pull some strings. Not only did they involve their parental clan, but they've also used their clan's influence to gather and pull in connections. At the moment, they were about to ask two ministers to preserve the two.
Zhong Zheng Ming's forces were clean, on the contrary. He had only respectable civilian officials pleading for him. Apart from his princess consort who has returned twice to her parental clan, the rest of the people were quite law-abiding.
As for Zhong Zheng Lin. Yuancheng Emperor finally had an unexpected harvest. After browsing through the secret report that had several more pages than others, he didn't know whether to laugh or cry7. It was too tragic to look at how was a dignified prince's residence overseen by cefei of Mu clan. When she wasn't punishing this one, she was locking up that one. From the outside, the residence appeared peaceful. However, who would know that from inside it was the noisiest one.
When he recalled how clever was that Mu girl, Yuancheng Emperor finally couldn't suppress himself and let out a cough. He threw the report from Zhong Zheng Lin's residence far away. It was simply a circus! Too unbearable to look at.
Yuancheng Emperor was both happy and angry at Mu Xi Yao's performance. This cefei whom he has personally appointed marriage to, promoted ranks and praised of, didn't she live up too well to his expectations? At the pivotal time, she has, to one's surprise, controlled neatly the situation. She has played an extremely beautiful deterrence game. However, this puts his plans at a great disadvantage. It seems like he can only forgo on Zhong Zheng Lin's residence this time.
On the contrary, that newlywed He Lian'shi greatly disappointed Yuancheng Emperor. He Lian Zhang's daughter didn't fall just a tiny bit short compared to her old man. When he called to mind He Lian Zhang's impressive reputation in the Ministry of Justice, Yauncheng Emperor shook his head and sighed.
In just seven days, Yuancheng Emperor has completely cleared up each faction's forces in the court and disposed of all the officials involved in the fraud case. When Zhong Zheng Lin and the rest were released and well-behavedly arrived in the imperial study, Yuancheng Emperor has already lost the anger he felt on that day. He calmly sat behind the table and watched them silently.
"From today on, the first prince will be transferred to the Ministry of Rites. All the military power in his hands will be taken back."
"The crown prince has merits in the fraud case. Originally, he should have been rewarded. However, upon investigation, it has been verified that he accepted bribes and conferred official ranks for money. This time, his merits offset faults. He will lead academics of Hanlin Academy and compile three-volume of《Buddhist Canon》. Afterward, he will continue with his errands in the Ministry of Justice."
Once Yuancheng Emperor's orders came out, Zhong Zheng Chun immediately slumped to the ground, dumbfoundedly looking toward the front, uttering no more words. The crown prince's expression was distorted. His eyes were crimson. He stiffly received the imperial decree and thanked for the grace.
When everyone withdrew, Yauncheng sent them their residence's secret reports. His eyes carried quite a meaningful glance.
Apart from the sixth Highness whose corners of mouth kept twitching, all of the rest were drenched in sweat, so scared they quickly asked to retreat.
Once Zhong Zheng Lin read the report attentively, he took a deep breath, feeling extremely helpless.
Mu Xi Yao clearly could use the help of He Lian Min Min to oversee the residence fair and square. Yet, that woman kept making good shows and let Yuancheng Emperor see a joke! She was clearly paying him back for bringing her troubles.
When Zhong Zheng Lin recalled Mu Xi Yao, he was both filled with anger and love. Since he received her help this time, not only the inner yard was stable, even the shadow guards haven't been exposed. In comparison, she surpassed He Lian Min Min too much.
His officially wed princess consort, on the other hand….Zhong Zheng Lin bowed his head to look at the report. She was a year older than Mu Xi Yao, yet had no shrewdness nor calculations. She only thought of how to go back and look for He Lian Zhang? Fortunately, Mu Xi Yao has stopped the person. Otherwise, he and He Lian Zhang both will be remembered by Yuancheng Emperor.
He Lian Zhang was circumspect and farsighted. This was a very clear-headed person. He was a pure royalist. No matter whether it was to him or to Zhong Zheng Lin, this identity was very beneficial. If it was unintentionally spoilt by He Lian Min Min and they've drawn Yuancheng Emperor's suspicions then the gains won't make up for the losses.
Translation notes:
[1] Catch sparrows on the doorstep is a Chinese idiom meaning there are few and far between visitors
[2] Watch with folded arms is a Chinese idiom meaning sit by/sit back and watch
[3] Tossed about by the wind and rain is a Chinese idiom meaning unstable
[4] Liver and guts cut to pieces is a Chinese idiom meaning heartbroken
[5] To point at the mulberry tree and curse the locust tree is a Chinese idiom meaning fig. to scold sb indirectly
[6] A cornered dog will jump over the wall is a Chinese idiom meaning to be driven to desperate action
[7] Not to know whether to laugh or cry is a Chinese idiom meaning both funny and extremely embarrassing