86
Duke of An Guo looked at Zhong Zheng Chun with an ashen face. No matter how he kept appeasing him, it was all to no avail.
The fact that Yuancheng Emperor had taken back Zhong Zheng Chun's military power posed a major concern for them! The war in Mobei will break out soon. Being transferred to the Ministry of Rites at this critical juncture meant his road to the elevation of prince's ranks1 will be completely cut off. It will be difficult if he wished to reassume the office with military merits in the future.
Fortunately, the crown prince was also banished to compile a scripture. It could be considered as fortune out of misfortune. Three volumes of 《Buddhist Canon》can at least put the crown prince off for two years. It will be as hard as to climb up to the sky if he wants to free himself ahead of time. Moreover, that group of stubborn pedants in Hanlin Academy were accustomed to hold themselves aloof. They acknowledge no one's superiority. Since Yuancheng Emperor had banished the crown prince to Hanlin Academy, he was obviously infuriated at the crown prince and wished to polish his temper.
"Did you participate in the metropolitan civil service examination fraud?"
"Grandfather, is bendian someone who is unable to weigh up the matter carefully?! Evidently, it was someone's set-up, wishing to doom bendian to death!
"Is Chen De Zhi not your person?"
"This…." Zhong Zheng Chun was at a loss for words.
"Even an advisor who has stayed at your residence for nearly a decade might have been possible manipulated by people?" Duke of An Guo was utterly disappointed in Zhong Zheng Chun.
"The mere crown prince doesn't have that capability. Although the crown prince holds a great responsibility, the culprit is the talented person behind him. The exquisite layout of this chess game and the way how deep were concealed the chess pieces, not to mention you, even this old man would hardly escape."
Duke of An Guo's brows knitted tightly. He slowly gyrated the two jade beads from South Sea in his left hand. Among the imperial princes, the only one who had such wisdom and resourcefulness was no one else than the sixth prince Zhong Zheng Lin. However, just how old was Zhong Zheng Lin a decade ago? This kind of theory was too far-fetched. Could it have been the fifth prince Zhong Zheng Ming? However, Zhong Zheng Ming himself also had been implicated in the fraud case. Don't tell him it was to fool people?
The more Duke of An Guo thought the more he felt something fishy was going on. This matter was indeed confusing.
"Since going the orthodox way is impossible now and you cannot rely on outstanding talents to impress his Majesty, you can only make everyone unable to distinguish themselves."
"Grandfather means…."
"Going to war is not only about achievements."
—–
In the fifth prince's residence, the fifth princess consort's face was filled with anxiety. She looked coweringly at Zhong Zheng Ming's constantly changing expression.
"Did bendian instruct you or not to constrain that good for nothing brother of yours in recent time?"
"Your Highness, qie….qie has already sent message. However, …."
"From now on, take proper rest. All the affairs in the prince's residence will be handed over to Mo cefei to take care of."
When the fifth princess consort heard that Zhong Zheng Lin stripped her of authority over the governance of the household, her complexion immediately turned as pale as death. Her body was on the verge of collapsing.
Zhong Zheng Ming looked at the woman in front of him and hated her mediocrity and incompetence. He has times and again instructed her important matters, yet she made mistakes every time, accomplishing none of the things he told her. When he recalled the circumstances in Zhong Zheng Lin's residence these days that were scouted out by servants, he needn't think to know that Mu'shi must have stepped in and took charge of the residence, for it to be so stable and running smoothly. At the time, if it wasn't for this completely useless principal consort, Zhong Zheng Lin wouldn't take advantage of the loophole and snatch the person he wanted.
Although he manipulated with the metropolitan civil service examination case, it was someone else who had meddled in. Without Zhong Zheng Lin's push, things won't be blown into such proportions. Originally, he planned to make Zhong Zheng Chun lose his other arm. Unexpectedly, Zhong Zheng Lin struck out ruthlessly. He went as far as to dig up Zhong Zheng Chun's unsavory past and cut off his prospects to nobility ranks. Indeed a big scheme. As for that blockhead the crown prince, he not only groundlessly shouldered the infamy of "inciting the discord between brothers" but also had his previous offenses raked up. He couldn't be simply more foolish.
As for the fact that he was implicated in the case; a shiny light flickered in those long and narrows eyes of his. He has, indeed, underestimated that sheep. The eighth prince Zhong Zheng Han! At first, he thought Zhong Zheng Lin had preyed on him. However, he has accidentally found out that he almost became victim to other's machinations, too. Unfortunately, Zhong Zheng Lin was extraordinarily vigilant and the first thing he did was to sever neatly his connections to the case. Thus, making Zhong Zheng Han return empty-handed.
He really didn't expect that a mere fraud case would make everyone, except for that fathead Zhong Zheng Chun, fight with both open and secret means. This time, both Zhong Zheng Chun and the crown prince were kicked out of the game in advance. What will happen afterward was all the more hard to see.
—–
The sixth prince's residence. Zhong Zheng Lin's study.
"This lowly subject congratulates your Highness on winning a victory in one stroke." Di Wu Yi Zhao held a feather fan in hands. He laughed while rocking it lightly.
"Could it be that misters is making fun of bendian?" Zhong Zheng Lin stretched his long legs and leisurely leaned against the bamboo couch. He held a wine cup which he softly swayed in hand. The expression on his face was frivolous and refined.
"The match this time was, indeed, to one's great satisfaction! Fortunately, mister had given bendian pointers. As expected, Zhong Zheng Han that boy had waited for the right time to take action."
"Your Highness mustn't fail to remember whom to give credits." Di Wu Yi Zhao abruptly smiled.
Zhong Zheng Lin slightly turned up his mouth, "She never admits."
"What a pity cefei is a woman. Otherwise, she will certainly have her place among the renown world scholars."
Zhong Zheng Lin paused for a moment and then broke into laughter, "Does mister think that based on her temperament, she will contently become a renown scholar if she were a man? She will most likely indulge herself in a jolly carousal. Actually, traveling with beauties is more probable."
As Di Wu Yi Zhao listened to Zhong Zheng Lin's humorous speech, he also let out a peal of unrestrained laughter.
After the two finished laughing, they finally started to discuss seriously big things that will follow afterward.
"Does your Highness wish to command the army and join the battlefront?"
"Yes."
"Right now, duke of An Guo hopes that your Highness will offer yourself for an assignment and go to the battle."
"He is not the only one who wishes bendian to be buried in a horse hide2." Zhong Zheng Lin sneered.
"It's still unknown to whom the deer will fall3.. Sometimes, even if one stayed steadily in Shengjing, one might still lose life." Di Wu Yi Zhao spoke in ample confidence.
—–
The sixth Highness's has been absent for several days. As soon as he returned to the residence, he stayed in the study with Di Wu Yi Zhao. It was not until the third quarter of the hour of Hai4 that he finally set foot in the inner yard.
When He Lian Min Min saw that the food she had sent being delivered back untouched, she knew that his Highness was certainly disappointed that she had failed to live up to her principal consort title. She, too, felt regret and sorrow inside the heart. Yet, she didn't know whom should she pour her grievances.
She always thought highly of herself. She didn't feel to be inferior to anyone. Only when she had encountered a big matter this time did she finally understand that there were people beyond people5. When she received the letter from her father, she finally understood that her lack of foresight almost caused a disaster. If it wasn't for Mu'shi hinders, what she received from his Highness right now won't be a cold treatment but a fury instead. Father's every word of appraisal in the letter was like a sharp blade, each word gouged her heart. If father learnt that the one he praised highly of for "not letting him down" was not her but other clan's daughter, she wondered how disappointed he would have been.
"Mistress, his Highness just headed to Danruo Courtyard." The chief maidservant Liu Qing reported timidly.
"I know." He Lian Min Min let down her hair, step by step walking toward the bed.
Lying down on the extraordinarily spacious bed, she was unable to fall asleep. That woman gave her too much of a pressure, forcing her to suffer one defeat after another. How could the confident He Lian Min Min from before know she would encounter such Mu Xi Yao!
She cannot wait anymore. This woman was too dangerous. His Highness will only value her more and more and disregard all the other people. However, based on Mu Xi Yao's cleverness, who in the inner yard will be able to pull her off the horse6?
In Chanruo Courtyard, He Lian Min Min tossed and turned restlessly in bed, unable to sleep sound at night.
—–
Mu Xi Yao looked at the unshaven man in front of her and disdainfully pushed away his handsome face.
"Your Highness, ugly."
Zhong Zheng Lin stopped for a second. Presumptuous! She actually dared to disdain his unkempt appearance. He fiercely cast a glare at Mu Xi Yao and then took a clean robe, going to Shuangyan pool to take a bath.
When he came out again, he was again that bright and handsome sixth Highness Zhong Zheng Lin. As Mu Xi Yao watched the man's neat and tidy face, she threw herself at him while laughing. Her little mouth pecked two kisses on his cheek with a moo-waah sound, smiling smugly.
Translation notes:
[1] In this context it's meant the title of wang 王 ("prince") which is reserved for the sons of the Emperor
[2] To be buried in a horsehide is a Chinese idiom meaning to give one's life on the battlefield
[3] To whom the deer falls is a Chinese idiom meaning the one to emerge a victor
[4] Hour of Hai is 9-11 pm
[5] There are people beyond person is a Chinese idiom deriving from There are people beyond (this) person, and skies beyond (this) sky which means no matter how good you think you are, there is always someone out there that is better
[6] Pull off the horse is a Chinese phrase meaning to unseat
87
"Does Jiao Jiao immensely enjoy the fact that bendian has lost face at the old man's place?"
These few days that Zhong Zheng Lin has been confined in the palace, each day he faced a group of grown-up men. In the evenings, he went to sleep all alone. Right now, as he held a soft and fragrant beauty in arms, he felt like a thirsty man discovering an oasis in the desert. His mood was jolly.
Mu Xi Yao stuck out her pregnant belly, hinting him to wake up. There was a pregnant woman in front of him.
"Your Highness, you've left gracefully. However, qie was left to deal with thousands of ducks that rattles on and on. So annoying. Qie is very sleepy nowadays."
As soon as Mu Xi Yao seized the opportunity, she began to complain.
Zhong Zheng Lin laughed. The little woman was increasingly casual in the way she spoke. In any case, he did read the report, so he understood her meaning.
"Uh-huh. Jiao Jiao is exhausted, and therefore, can be excused from paying respect."
Mu Xi Yao's beautiful eyes instantly brightened up with a spark. It was such a dazzling sight to behold. Your sixth Highness, you indeed know how to play the game! She kissed his Adam's apple, stirring a desire in the man.
"Your Highness, let's settle." Mu Xi Yao paid no heed to his restless hands. Swinging her little bottom, she turned and went to sleep.
I let you cause troubles and attracting peach blossoms1. Serve you right!
Since Mu Xi Yao left Zhong Zheng holding the sack, he had to do his best to control himself. Thinking of how tiring were these days for her and that he couldn't bear to torment her, he forced himself to stifle the desire, enduring for the rest of the night. On the next morning, he climbed up from the bed early to practice martial arts and take a cold shower to vent his pent up lust from yesterday.
He Lian Min Min looked at orioles and swallows2 underneath. Everyone was present except the most finicky one in the residence.
"This morning, qie heard his Highness rested in Mu cefei's place yesterday. No wonder that she didn't get up today. She must have been tired from attending to his Highness; unable to take into consideration the etiquette."
Su Lin Rou looked at He Lian Min Min and took delight in her misfortune. Her voice rose and fell in cadence, while her words were sophisticated.
Serve you right! That day, you should not have seized the occasion to chastise Mu'shi, and put on airs. Right now, you must regret your past deeds! He Lian Min Min that stupid woman missed the perfect timing of his Highness not being in the residence. Instead, she let Mu Xi Yao grab the chance to establish herself and let her prestige rise to a new height.
"Is attending to his Highness a reason to not come to pay respect?" Zeng Yu didn't bear the polite and modest manners of a concubine at all. She mindlessly interrupted them with a voice dripping with sarcasm: "After attending to his Majesty, aunt still goes to Yaohua Palace to call her attendance."
The whole room quietened, scared by Zeng Yu's words. She actually dared to talk about her Ladyship and his Majesty's private affairs. Did she wish to die?
The first things Su Lin Rou and Zeng Yu did in the morning was making He Lian Min Min so angry that her chest ached. Why only did these idiotic women insist on making life difficult for her? One Mu'shi already made her head ache very much. Now, there were, in addition, two extremely noisy, and good-for-nothing women who constantly raised a hue. How can such life be endured?
"Concubine Zeng lacks ethical codes. She will be responsible to make three hundreds copies of 《Woman's lessons》and put under house arrest for three months." He Lian Min Min was at the end of her patience. She directly picked Zeng Yu to kill the chicken to warn the monkey3.
"How dare you!" Zeng Yu suddenly got up and swept to the ground tea on her hand while glowering at He Lian Min Min. She acted extremely rude and unreasonable.
"Tian Fu Shan, drag down Zeng'shi and punish her with domestic discipline." Zhong Zheng Lin raised his leg to step in. He didn't even bother to look at Zeng Yu. His tone was laced with coldness.
"Elder cousin!" Zeng Yu's eyes teared up. She dashed in front of Zhong Zheng Lin with an incredulous look on her face. Subsequently, she grabbed the sleeve of his robe and kept on pestering Zhong Zheng Lin.
The sixth Highness was on guard when a woman took the initiative to become intimate with him. He raised and swung his hand, and the person was already outside of the main house.
"Elder cousin, how can you treat me like this? Aunt told you to take well care of me!" Like as if she has lost mind, Zeng Yu punched and kicked Tian Fu Shan. Her hair became messy and her makeup smudged in the process.
Looking at ghost-like woman, Zhong Zheng Lin uttered coldly, "Put her into house arrest for half a year. Drag her away."
Since Zhong Zheng Lin entered in, everyone kept quiet out of fear. They were terribly frightened inside. How come his sixth Highness was out only for a few days, yet he came back being even colder than before? Could it be that lady Mu has displeased his Highness last night?"
What these women didn't know was that the sixth Highness was sexually frustrated and had no place to disperse his anger.
"Serve the meal." Zhong Zheng Lin was impatient.
He Lian Min Min was in a dilemma, "This…Your Highness, cefei hasn't arrived yet. Do we wait for her a bit?" At this moment, the anger made Zhong Zheng Lin lose his head hence he ordered for the food to be served. If he recalls later that he didn't wait for his darling, won't she be then blamed for neglecting the concubine?
"Mu'shi is heavy with pregnancy. Before the childbirth, she will be dismissed from paying respects. There's no need to wait for her." He spoke while having a servant girl attending him with washing hands. His expression was composed as he justly broke the rules.
He Lian Min Min's heart clutched tightly. On the surface, she stiffly complied. Did his Highness just openly denied her the honor due to the principal consort?
Su Lin Rou's eyelid jumped. Lady Mu took precedence everywhere. She can even not arrive to pay respect. Did his Highness want to indulge in her acts of arrogance?
The rest of people secretly harbored resentment against Mu Xi Yao. However, they dared not to overstep He Lian principal consort and Su cefei. Since the two of them have borne it in silent, what else could they say?
"In a few days, a family banquet will be held in the palace. He Lian'shi, make the preparations. Decide for yourself if you want to bring someone." Zhong Zheng Lin instructed He Lian Min Min and then put down the chopsticks in his hands.
"Yes." He Lian Min Min respectfully replied. Seeing him pick only some small side dishes, she became worried, "Your Highness, it'd be better to use more of the meal. You mustn't be hungry while running errands."
Zhong Zheng Lin waved his hand and rinsed his mouth with lukewarm water passed by the servant girl.
"No need. Bendian won't return for lunch. Dinner will be directly used in Danruo Courtyard. You don't need to trouble yourself. Principal consort should properly examine the residence's account book and have Tian Fu Shan explain it to you more attentively."
He Lian Min Min understood his implication. Everyone will be using breakfast in the main house in the future. The rest of the time, he won't be coming. It was good like that. At least, she could see the person every day, right? Moreover, when his Highness mentioned account book, did it mean he has already collected account books from Mu'shi to hand them over to her?
Her face looked a bit better. She personally sent Zhong Zheng Lin out of the house. Only then did she return to the inner room.
—–
"Mistress, his Highness let you manage the account books. How can you dispose of the matter by throwing them at this servant?" Hui Lan was so anxious she kept going frantically around Mu Xi Yao. The above-mentioned amount was so big it made her afraid and daring not to take it over.
"You mean that I, the mistress, have trained you for so many years, and when it comes for you to show yourself, you want me to personally do the work?" Mu Xi Yao swayed her calf while twirling the grape and sending it into her mouth.
When Zhao momo saw cefei's appalling seating manners, she bowed her head and withdrew outside.
His Highness handed all the overt accounts of the prince's residence over to He Lian principal consort to manage. The ones that were specially picked out were his Highness's exclusive private property. Those few important assets were all given into mistress's hands. Unfortunately, cefei wasn't fond of accounts. She threw them at servant girls with a face filled with disdain. This was, indeed, a blessing one couldn't snatch even if one wished.
Seeing Hui Lan solemn-faced, she good-heartedly called for Chun Lan and Ruo Lan to act as her assistances. Thus, she has finally dumped this unnecessary burden.
Zhong Zheng Lin that man, did he think she didn't know these were all just smokescreen? The important assets were bullshit. Just by relying on these furs and jewels, could he support his secret forces and Yue Lai Ge? Gibberish!
The grain transportation and iron ore foundry he possessed were his real trump cards. Unfortunately, she couldn't openly reveal it to people. Otherwise, everyone will be finished.
Mu Xi Yao's face was written with "what a shame". She sighed to herself. If they were able to wrench the armaments from Yuancheng Emperor's hands, then those assets…the idea was too beautiful. Mu Xi Yao shook her head. She better wait for Zhon Zheng Lin to ascend to the throne and then she will sleep while hugging the money from the state treasury.
"Mistress, He Lian principal consort sent people to ask you whether the purchase of food for your little kitchen will follow the others or you will be on your own and call someone else to run the task?"
Gui mono smiled and carried Cheng Qing inside. As soon as she came in, she heard Mo Lan mention affairs in the little kitchen.
"Mistress, the little kitchen has to be carefully managed. You mustn't let the principal consort intervene." Gui mono was a long-time servant of lady Yu. She loved Mu Xi Yao dearly since she was little. Her words weighed a bit more than the ordinary servant girls.
Mu Xi Yao nodded. If one was not mindful of the food, what was that person even doing in the inner yard? "Have Tian Fu Shan continue to take charge of it for the time being. After leaving the palace, tell mother to send some of your family members over. It's time for some of our people to enter the residence."
Once they leave the palace to establish the residence, Mu Xi Yao had no plans for He Lian Min Min to enjoy such a good thing by herself. If she let go of this best opportunity for people to come in, it would be like surrender half of the country.
It was foreseeable that at that time lady Su will certainly also do her utmost to plant her people in. If He Lian Min Min wished to hide the sky with her one hand, it would be rather too unrealistic.
When Gui momo and Mo Lan heard that Mu Xi Yao planned to elevate long-time servants from Mu House, joy appeared on their faces. Based on how his Highness indulged her, it was all only a matter of few words. Compared to Mu House, to be able to enter the prince's residence was a different story altogether.
—–
"She, indeed, grabs tightly on it." He Lian Min Min coldly snorted.
At the moment, it appeared like his Highness gave the authority over the residence to her. In fact, everybody was well aware that this matter had a bottom line. She couldn't intervene in the affairs of Danruo Courtyard. This was also the reason why Zhong Zheng Lin could let her easily take charge of the residence. Because she was "sensible".
When He Lian Min Min remembered the fifth princess consort's circumstance, she became distressed. These princes and Highnesses, which of them sincerely showed solicitude for their legal wives? Above, she had a mistress in the palace pressuring them. Underneath, there were cefeis and concubines forcing her to step down. Even that lady Zeng who has been put under house arrest by Zhong Zheng Lin; she could only punish her according to the rules. Don't tell her she truly could disregard consort Shu's face and just dispose of her?
Since there is already one Mu'shi, she cannot let Su Lin Rou follow closely her suit.
—–
"Mistress, things have been done." Zhu Jin leaned over to hand a reply letter.
"Remember to tell them to leave no trails. This thing absolutely mustn't be exposed to people."
"Yes."
—–
When Zhong Zheng Lin returned to the residence in the evening, he just happened to be stopped midway by Su Lin Rou who has been waiting for him.
"Your Highness, my father has sent news. He specially instructed qie to personally deliver it to your Highness."
A tiny light flashed in Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes. Su Bo Wen actually passed like thunder and moved like the wind4.
"Follow bendian." His footsteps halted. Halfway, he made a detour to Fanghua Courtyard.
Once they entered the study room of Fanghua Courtyard, Su Lin Rou took out the letter and respectfully presented it to him.
Zhong Zheng Lin unfolded the letter. His brows furrowed.
Zhong Zheng Ming truly wanted to concentrate his efforts on civilian court officials. Right now, there was a large number of officials and scholars drew over by him. Unexpectedly, even Xiao Ye Ting has become his follower.
How did this great scholar of the present dynasty willingly bow before him?
Zhong Zheng Lin closed his eyes to contemplate. He tapped softly against the table with his right hand, attempting to find a way to ask a distinguished scholar who was Xiao Ye Ting's equal to leave the mountain5.
Seeing Zhong Zheng Lin frowning and being silent, Su Lin Rou dared not to disturb him. She only quietly observed at the side.
"Su'shi." Zhong Zheng Lin's phoenix eyes stared at the woman in front of him, "Make a preparation. Tomorrow, you will accompany bendian out of the capital for a few days."
Su Lin Rou was elevated. She quickly complied. Seeing Zhong Zheng Lin get up, she hurried to follow, sending him off out.
"His Highness went to lady Su's place?" He Lian Min Min put down the needlework she had in hands.
What was going on? Everyone in the residence knew about lady Mu's immense favor. How come Su Lin Rou was able to intercept the person from her?"
—–
As soon as Zhong Zheng Lin stepped into the house, he saw Mu Xi Yao tapping his son ceaselessly down to the bed while laughing mischievously.
"Ba-ba!" The tiny one kept crawling while throwing himself at Mu Xi Yao.
"Mom!" Mu Xi Yao corrected him. "You little naughty boy, you can call daddy clearly. Yet, whenever you call mom, you start to cause trouble." As she was speaking, she rewarded his chubby bottom two slaps.
Zhong Zheng Lin looked at her, amused by her pouting and displeased expression. He walked over and took Cheng Qing. Subsequently, he leaned over and plant a kiss on her moist and alluring lips.
"Did you have a good time playing with bendian's son?"
Translation notes:
[1] Attract peach blossom is a Chinese phrase meaning to attract the opposite sex
[2]Orioles and swallows is a Chinese idiom meaning a bevy of young girls; a crowd of women chattering together pleasantly
[3]Killing the chicken to warn the monkey is a Chinese idiom meaning to punish an individual as an example to others
[4] Pass like thunder and move like the wind is a Chinese idiom that means a swift and decisive reaction
[5] To leave the mountain is a Chinese idiom meaning to come out of retirement and take up an official post
88
"Your Highness," Mu Xi Yao threw him a meaningful glance and teased him, "Qie started to play with Cheng Qing only because your Highness wasn't coming even after a long waiting." The pair of her beautiful eyes turned, her body twisted in Zhong Zheng Lin's embrace. In fact, when she tapped at Cheng Qing and watched his little face that resembled Zhong Zheng Lin so much turn aggrieved, she was secretly enjoying herself.
"Jiao Jiao, you can just go and barge in, dragging bendian away." Zhong Zheng Lin easily stuffed his son to Gui momo and in the next moment, he turned to hug the baby's mom.
Mu Xi Yao burst out laughing, radiating with delight, "Bear this promise in the heart, your Highness. Sooner or later, qie will catch a pair of a couple in the act of adultery."
"Why is there a need for sooner or later? Bendian will satisfy Jiao Jiao's wish. In a moment, bendian will let you catch an adultery couple in the bed."
Mu Xi Yao cried out in alarm. She became so frightened she hugged tightly his neck while nipping at his ear and softly pulling at it.
This man was trained well by her. Zhong Zheng Lin from the previous life was a plain scumbag. Not only was his character trashy, his temper was even more trashier. Nowadays, he's actually became sensible and tactful. Flirting was a routine practice for the two of them. It was also common for them to spice things up once in a while.
When Mo Lan saw the cold food on the table, she called Hui Lan to quickly take them away and warm them up again. Once these two masters got intimate with each other, they don't use a meal. However, after they had their fun, they become unbearably hungry. It was guaranteed that mistress will fall out with his Highness in a moment.
In response to Mo Lan's guesses, Zhao momo and the lot who were waiting outside heard his Highness inside use a deliberately gentle voice filled with coaxing words. If it wasn't for the fact that they had to stay to serve them, they wouldn't be able to stand the two's display of affection.
In the evening, Zhong Zheng Lin enjoyed to the fullest the beauty's company. He took Mu Xi Yao to his arms and kept brushing his head lightly against her collar.
"Bendian needs to take Su'shi out of the capital for two days. Jiao Jiao must not mischief. Take good care of bendian's son." Zhong Zheng Lin gently stroked Mu Xi Yao's increasingly obvious belly.
Mu Xi Yao's mind turned. She knew Zhong Zheng Lin wished to use Su Bo Wen to cut a path. She nodded a tiny bit.
"Does your Highness know of "Drunken old man Tao likes wine, basking in Yuquan1?"
Zhong Zheng Lin halted. It was well-known "The South had Tao and the North had Xiao", Great Wei's genuine scholars. Unfortunately, Tao Gong was fond of liquor. He couldn't leave even half a step from Jiu Quan of Yu Province. Each day, he will take two sips of liquor and play music to liven up the mood. Countless of people with ambition wanted to ask Tao Gong to leave the mountain. In the end, all of them returned in defeat, their heart filled with disappointment and frustration.
"If one wishes to invite elder Tao, one must first pay respect to Qin Bo." Mu Xi Yao spoke out with longing. This was a story that resembled a tale of Bo Ya and Zi Qi's deep friendship2. Unfortunately, she won't have an opportunity to see it with her own eyes. It will her lifetime's regret. Her dwell in the inner yard doomed her to miss many stories in legend. The price for rice weevil3 was that the sky above her head will never be vast.
Zhong Zheng Lin's phoenix eyes lit with a brilliant light. The big hand that hugged Mu Xi Yao slightly tightened its hold. This woman…..
—–
On the following day, the sixth Highness climbed into the carriage with Su cefei amid everyone's incredulous gazes.
He Lian Min Min was very puzzled when she saw Mu Xi Yao leisurely pass days as if nothing happened.
Wan Jing Wen squeezed the jade hairpin while frowning deeply. What was going on? Why did his Highness abruptly call Su Lin Rou, that woman who came from who knows where, to attend to him? She has already decided to take action against Mu Xi Yao. Yet, to her surprise, this happened. Following afterward, should she act or not? Could it be Mu Xi Yao was only a pawn the sixth Highness used to fool people?
If it was for an insignificant pawn that could be replaced at any time, then it wasn't worth her effort. Moreover, it would be for the best if the manpower in her hands didn't get exposed.
"Zhu Jing, postpone the operation."
Was that woman's oddity deliberately created by Zhong Zheng Lin or was she like that from the start? Someday, the truth will float up to the surface.
—–
"Mistress, news came from the sixth prince's residence."
The woman's green onion-like fingertip brushed against the secret report. She spoke coldly.
"Regard not others. Just keep a close watch at Mu'shi."
No matter whether she was favored or not, she was destined to doom.
—–
Inside the carriage that headed to Jing city, Su Lin Rou's body was rigid, unable to sit nor stand still. Since his sixth Highness climbed up into the carriage, he kept reviewing files, sparing himself no free time.
"If sitting is uncomfortable, go to rest in the carriage at the back."
Su Lin Rou was startled by Zhong Zheng Lin who has abruptly spoken out. She quickly changed her sitting posture and replied softly, "Qie is alright. It's just a little bit stuffy. Your Highness needn't to mind qie. Official matters are more important."
How was it possible for her to go to the carriage at the back and stay in the same place as the two servant girls? She'd such a hard time to get a bit closer to his Highness. Even if she was going to die she had to grasp firmly this opportunity, expose more her face and familiarise with him.
She moved a little forward and raised her hand to pour Zhong Zheng Lin a cup of hot tea, "Your Highness, weather is dry and hot. Drink more water."
Zhong Zheng Lin did not lift his head. He took the teacup that was presented right under his eyes. Just now, his hand made contact with lady Su's fingertip. Suddenly, a gleaming light rose in his eyes. He swung his hand and threw teacup outside.
Su Lin Rou was scared witless by Zhong Zheng Lin's sudden action. When she came back to herself, Zhong Zheng Lin took her by the waist and they jumped out from the fast-running carriage.
"Ah!" The woman's high-pitched and startled cry rang at his ear. Zhong Zheng Lin frowned slightly.
"Shut up!"
Su Lin Rou was so frightened her face turned stark white. Her whole body broke into a shudder. She only managed to firmly hold onto Zhong Zheng Lin's neck, coiling herself closely around his body.
Watching the shadows of trees fly speedily past her eyes and the arrow in the midair that has brushed past them, all of these almost made Su Lin Rou who has been raised in a lady's boudoir faint.
As soon as Zhong Zheng Lin fell to the ground, he pulled Su Lin Rou down from his body. He took the sword hanging on his waist, his whole body emitting a murderous aura.
"Come out!" The man yelled. His three-foot long sword issued a faint buzzing sound.
Wei Zhen brought imperial bodyguards and shielded the sixth Highness and Su cefei in the middle. He pricked up his ear to listen to the movements in the surrounding.
Inside the grove was still and silent. Zhong Zheng Lin closed his eyes. In a flash, swords were drawn out and cut high into the sky.
Realizing their spot was exposed, the men clad in black could only confront them head-on, "Strike!"
Su Lin Rou crouched on the ground, staring at Zhong Zheng Lin's towering back. Her hands kneaded her clothes until they became a messy ball. Her fingertips were sunk into the soil while her tears fell down endlessly.
Twenty-something men clad in black dashed out, each of them extraordinary agile. They have surrounded Zhong Zheng Lin and the party into a circle, willing to risk their lives to assassin the group of them. One could tell they were death soldiers4 by a glace.
"Your Highness, take cefei and go first." Understanding the gravity of the situation, Wei Zhen's attacks became ruthless, his each strike lethal. He cared not about sword wounds inflicted on his body. His mind was set on opening up a bloody path for Zhong Zheng Lin.
"No need." Through the corner of eyes, Zhong Zheng Lin saw Su'shi docilely stay in her place. He left her behind thereupon. Gathering the inner chi, he leaped and fight his way into the battleground.
Seeing the residence's bodyguards successively sustain injuries, Zhong Zheng Lin increased the speed of his attacks. Amid the flipping and shifting, the surrounding death soldiers, one by one, fell to the ground. All of them had the spot between their eyebrows hit by the sword, killed by a single blow.
Their leader, recognizing that situation wasn't in their favor, attempted to withdraw but was tenaciously pursued by Wei Zhen. Once Zhong Zheng Lin got his hands free, he (the leader) knew his time of death has come.
He looked around. Seeing his brethren all perished, he laughed sorrowfully, "People only knew his the Highness for being brave and adept in warfare. However, they didn't know the sixth Highness was actually the one hiding his light under a bushel. This one will die utterly convinced by your Highness's talents." Once his words fell, he did not delay time but directly cut his neck with a sword. The fresh blood instantly spurted out.
Su Lin Rou was already stupified by the scare. At this time, as she directly faced the bloody scene, her vision blacked out and she passed out.
"Your Highness, these must be death soldiers from Shu province."
Zhong Zheng Lin nodded. He recognized them after hearing their accent.
"Clean them up."
"Yes."
—–
When Su Lin Rou regained consciousness, she was already lying inside the carriage. All the clothes on her body were changed.
"Mistress, you've finally woken up." Hong Xiu looked at her worriedly. The rim of her eyes was very red.
Just now, they were left behind. They'd only heard the clashes of swords and battle cries rising up in the front. They were so scared they hid inside the carriage, overcome with a shiver. When cefei was carried back by his Highness, she had already lost consciousness. Her clothes were extremely dirty, her skirt was even stained by blood.
Looking at the personal maidservant in front of her, Su Lin Rou immediately came back to herself. She stroke the place where her heart beat. The terror still lingered in her. When she called to mind the warm chest that protected her in a critical moment, Su Lin Rou abruptly sat up.
"Where is his Highness?"
Translation notes:
[1] Yuquan is a district in inner Mongolia
[2] Friendship between Bo Ya and Zi Qi exemplifies the Chinese ideal of friendship – click for more info about their story here
[3] Rice weevil is an Internet slang used to describe people that idle their time away
[4] Death soldier is a soldier who is trained to fulfill missions without care about their lives. It is also used by someone to call themselves to display their resolution
89
"Misstress, his Highness has left in advance. Before departing, he instructed us to join him in the roadside inn ahead."
Unable to hide her disappointment, Su Lin Rou lied down again. Her mind was filled with the man's lofty back and the heroic appearance of him wielding the sword.
In the past, she often heard people talk about love at first sight. Su Lin Rou didn't believe such talks. Today, after seeing his sixth Highness's different side, she felt her heart skip a beat. Not because of his Highness's handsome appearance, but for that reassuring and worth to entrust's warmth he brought her.
Following the change of her mindset, the previous unwillingness she felt toward lady Mu slowly turned to loath. There was also He Lian Min Min that woman who occupied the position of the principal wife yet was completely incompetent. Whenever Su Lin Rou recalled they've missed the opportunity to punish Mu Xi Yao, she wished she could pry open He Lian Min Min's brain to see how stupid must be that woman to leave such a scourge in the residence.
She wanted to get close to that man who gave her reassurance again. She wanted it so much. Especially after the calamity. She wished to be held by him. Even some words of appeasement from him would be good.
Under Su Li Rou's anxious anticipation, the carriage finally arrived at the roadside inn before dusk.
"Your Highness!"
Zhong Zheng Lin showed displeasure when he looked at the woman who's suddenly barged into the room. Only after he pulled the garment over his shoulder did he raise his head to glance at the person who just stood and stared at him blankly.
"What's the matter?"
Su Lin Rou's lips trembled. Her eyes teared up. Her voice carried distress.
"Your Highness, are you injured? Did you see a physician?"
As she spoke, she stepped forward and raised her hand, about to examine Zhong Zheng Lin's wounds.
"Just a small injury. It's nothing. You've suffered a scare today. Take a rest sooner. Tomorrow, at the hour of Mao1, we'll set out on the journey."
Su Li Rou hesitated for a moment. She didn't leave. She looked at him a bit stubbornly and pleaded him lowly.
"Your Highness, please allow qie to apply medicine to your wounds. If we delayed the healing time of the wound, once qie returns qie won't be able to justify before the principal consort. What's more, qie won't be able to sleep well."
When Zhong Zheng Lin saw her clearly fear his imposing air, yet forcing herself to brace up and not take a step backward, he suddenly felt this scene was a little familiar.
It was Mu Xi Yao. That woman was also this brave. She stubbornly defied his demands. Compared to Su Lin Rou, she was even bolder and more impudent. She cowered to no one, her expression carried obstinacy and unruliness. Yet, he was still infatuated with her.
Jiao Jiao. Zhong Zheng Lin sighed inwardly. He's been away only for one day, yet he already began to miss her.
"No need. You may retreat." After he said the words, he went to the inner room and paid her no more heed.
Su Lin Rou stood there, stupefied. She pressed her lips tightly.
Her eyes didn't lie to her. The tenderness and indulgence that flashed through his Highness's eyes just now were so genuine they made her heart broke. They were something she extremely longed to obtain at the moment, yet were firmly occupied by another person. Suppressing the agony that surged inside her heart, Su Lin Rou softly asked for leave.
He Lian Min Min was not her enemy. Only Mu Xi Yao, that woman who was enjoying all of his Highness's pamper in Danruo Courtyard, was the target that had to be eradicated in the first place. Perhaps, her way of thinking was wrong from the beginning. Only once things were classified by priority and importance, she would be able to consolidate at every step.
Just as Zhong Zheng Lin was reminiscing about how soft and lovable was Mu Xi Yao's body while he held her, his train of thoughts was interrupted by knocking on the door. His face immediately turned cold. He was clearly impatient, "Who?"
"Your Highness, this subject has a matter to see you for." As soon as Wei Zhen heard his Highness's tone, knew he came in the wrong time.
"Come in."
Wei Zhen stiffly took a step and sincerely passed a letter to Zhong Zheng Lin.
"Your Highness, before leaving the residence, mistress Yao has specially instructed this subject to personally hand you the letter in the evening."
Zhong Zheng Lin was slightly surprised. Mu Xi Yao has actually circumvented him and had Wei Zhen to convey him a message? He took the letter and waved his hand, ordering Wei Zhen to retreat.
The moment he opened the letter, a familiar scent assailed his nostrils. This was "Ting Zhi" Mu Xi Yao loved the most during their early interactions. Later, because he loved dearly this scent on her body during their private moments, he prohibited her to recklessly apply it on herself again. He didn't expect she would actually use it on the letter.
He cleared his mind of distractions and began to carefully read the letter. Delicate and feminine handwriting appeared vividly on paper. It was both soft and quick-witted.
"Far is my longing, deep is my missing. No end to my missing till we are reunited. Now, in the moonlight, a solitary one stands."
Zhong Zheng Lin's breathing halted. His heart pounded like drums. Looking at the woman's tender-hearted personal letter, could this be considered as her reply? He read silently the text over and over again. His fingers that were pinching the paper added a tiny bit more strength.
He couldn't sleep anymore. Zhong Zheng Lin got up to push the windows open. What unfolded before his eyes was a round moon that glowed in the dark and the bright light it cast at its surroundings.
Zhong Zheng Lin couldn't discern the complex and unspeakable feelings he felt at this moment. He only found himself to be both happy and worried. He wished to hold fiercely that person who disturbed his mind, yet he was helpless by the fact they were far apart. What remained were only endless longing and cherishing.
Mu Xi Yao's one "love letter" agitated Zhong Zheng Lin so much he wasn't able to sleep for a whole night. He hated the fact he couldn't fetch the horse and return to the residence to take the person to his arms and engage in intimacies with her.
And yet that culprit was in Danruo Courtyard, enjoying carefree days.
—–
Mu Xi Yao remembered about that letter before going to bed. She let out a stifled laugh.
Who told Zhong Zheng Lin to not take her along? Did he want to travel in beauty's company? Then she must spoil his fun.
Zhong Zheng Lin should not have met with "Swan goose sending love letter2" tactic yet. It just so happens that he can broaden his mind with this experience. Prohibiting her to go on an outing? Alright. Then, his sixth Highness might as well stop thinking of having a free and leisure time. If she does not charm his soul back, Mu Xi Yao will feel like she let down the grievances that stemmed from his stern control of her during her pregnancy.
No matter what, it would have not occurred to Su Lin Rou that her plan to use the chance of "having shared delights and common hardships, been stuck together in life and death" to get close to the sixth Highness will be completely ruined by Mu Xi Yao's simple flirtation.
The sixth Highness she kept thinking about with her heart and soul was right now next door, looking at the letter and missing its owner. How could he recall even a little bit about her?
Demoness Mu's power has gradually increased. She became increasingly bewitching and capable of bringing never-ending troubles.
On the second day, everyone noticed that the sixth Highness's mind wandered off several times, which was very uncommon of him. It was quite a rare sight. The sixth Highness was used to always being steady and stable. When has he been ever absent-minded?
Only Wei Zhen carried a taut face. Even if he was beaten to death he wouldn't dare to drag out the skeleton out of his Highness's closet. Could it be he had to explain to his peers that his Highness was spellbound by the mistress Yao in the residence, and harbored the amorous thoughts of spring?
Under Zhong Zheng Lin's direction, the group of people finally arrived at Jing city at noon. As soon as they reached the city gate, they were welcomed in by Su Bo Wen who has been waiting for them for a long time.
After Su Lin Rou tidied herself up, she was sent to bureaucrat residence3 in Jing city by Zhong Zheng Lin. Later, she will be invited to participate in the poetry gathering hosted by Pan Yang princess4 as his sixth Highness's cefei, di daughter of Hanlin Academy's academician. This was the purpose of her trip and also the honor Zhong Zheng Lin bestowed to House of Su.
If it wasn't for Mu Xi Yao's pregnancy, Zhong Zheng Lin would have also brought her along. Compared to Su Lin Rou, Mu Xi Yao was clearly a notch above her. Although this woman has an average education, she was remarkably accomplished in books and literature, showing great talents. This understanding often made Zhong Zheng Lin gasp in admiration. At the same time, he was angry at her careless and slacking attitude.
Su Lin Rou's appearance at princess Pan Yang's poetry gathering was, undoubtedly, conveying to noble families a message that the sixth Highness had far more than one cefei, beside the widely rumored lady Mu. Daughter of Su House was, too, held in high esteem by his Highness.
On the other side, the sixth Highness attended the Jing city's poetry gathering in person, assuming the post of the examiner. He's enjoyed an entertaining talk with all the present scholars and literati. Under the recommendation of Su Bo Wen, he engaged in conversation with dozens of accomplished intellectuals during which he's fully exhibited his literary talents. As a consequence, he gained respect and admiration from even more young scholars. This was also Zhong Zheng Lin's first time displaying flamboyantly his profound accomplishment in verses after entering the Ministry of war, in the poetry prevalent Great Wei.
In Jing city, the sixth Highness was in fine feather. Mu Xi Yao, however, listened to Hui Lan's report with a grim face.
—–
"Calm down, mistress. The most important thing for you right now is to take care of your body. Little master won't be able to withstand your anger." Scared witless, Zhao momo stretched her hand to support Mu Xi Yao, afraid that something might befall upon her. It would be a head-dropping disaster.
Mu Xi Yao's face was as cold as frost. The sight of her scared people.
"What did the imperial physician say?"
"The imperial physician said the child could not be saved. This servant is afraid that the third miss will have to stay in bed and recuperate for some days. This time, her body suffered too much damage. It'll be hard for the third miss to avoid a bit of ailment."
Mu Xi Yao slowly closed her eyes and contemplated for a moment.
Could she still not avoid this to happen? She's already thought of ways to plant people into Mo Wan Qing's courtyard. Even despite that she still could not keep the mother and child safe. They've only said Mu Xi Tong ran into the young master of the prince's residence. Did they take her for a three years old child, coaxing her and be done with his matter?
It wasn't Mo Wan Qing. She hasn't even had time to plead her innocence much less to throw mud at herself. Was it the woman whom she had met in the Imperial Garden on that day or the newly entered lady Li?
"Hui Lan, tell Tian Fu Shan to prepare the carriage. You and Zhao momo accompany me out of the palace."
"Mistress, his Highness has instructed you over and over again before departure to stay in the residence." Seeing her want to go out of the estate to make a visit despite her heavy pregnancy, Mo Lan anxiously stopped her with her words, "How about this servant taking the trip in your stead?"
Mu Xi Yao shook her head to reject her proposal. Mo Lan as a servant girl still had some voice in Danruo Courtyard. If she went to Zhong Zheng Ming's residence, who would pay heed to her?
They couldn't hold back Mu cefei who was determined to leave the palace. As a result, they could only report the chief steward to prepare a carriage.
Tian Fu Shan run so fast his head sweated profusely. He anxiously hurried to Danruo Courtyard to stop the person.
"Mistress, don't make things hard for this servant. Before leaving, his Highness has specially instructed to this servant that if this servant let you go out today, once he returns he will punish this servant. Would you like to wait for another few days? Once his Highness returns, he will accompany you with the visit?"
Tian Fu Shan was so agitated he was like an ant on a hot pan. Why did this mistress Yao always pick a time when his Highness was absent to rise in revolt? They wanted his old bones, didn't they?!
Mu Xi Yao looked at him leisurely. Her tone was easy.
"Are you going to prepare the carriage or wait for the imperial physician's arrival? Whenever something weights your mistress's heart, she is prone to fall ill. Headache and mild fever are still small matter. It's not like premature birth or postpartum hemorrhage are not possible."
Tian Fu Shan was so scared that he broke into a cold sweat. How would he dare to stay? Like a gust of wind, he rushed to run his errand.
Zhao momo and others wished they could silence her uninhibited mouth! This bad habit of the mistress was too worrisome. Not only did she not take herself seriously, but she also babbled nonsenses and dragged down along with her the young master! If his Highness was to learn of this, no one will be able to escape the punishment.
When Tian Fu Shan saw Mu cefei dash out of the palace while taking along with her the imperial bodyguards, he quickly sent a letter to Jing city by horse.
As he called to mind going to Chanruo Courtyard to call in reinforcement, intending for He Lian principal consort to step in and dissuade Mu cefei, but being passed the buck back by her, Tian Fu Shan could only shake his head and sigh. With such conduct, how would it be possible for his Highness to put her into his heart?
After a repeated deliberation, He Lian Min Min still chose to stand by. If she interfered in this matter, it would be like treading on the muddy water5. She needn't think about stopping her. In case she was unable to stop the person, she would be obliged to act virtuously and accompany her. However, she was very unfamiliar with the fifth prince's inner yard. Why should she inadvertently offend people in order to provide Mu Xi Yao a backing? Moreover, it was merely a shufei in the fifth prince's residence. She's only had a miscarriage. What a big deal was it for it to deserve to inconvenience her, the principal consort, to make a visit?
"Mistress, if you don't go and something happens to cefei, how would you explain it to his Highness?" Feng momo looked at her worriedly. Mistress simply couldn't understand that if she treated cefei better now, Chanruo Courtyard would be naturally more pleasing to his Highness's eyes. Why should she incur his Highness's displeasure for some trivialities? Besides, this lady Mu gloated on her favor now. If mistress gave her little bits of benefits and pleased his Highness…it was the most important thing.
He Lian Min Min's heart became displeased when she heard Feng momo's words. Mu'shi was looking for trouble on her own. How can it be blamed on her? What's more, even if she went over, she won't be able to stop the person. Wouldn't it be busying herself for nothing? He Lian House was a century-old noble family. Yet, there was no principal wife who had to rely on currying favor with a concubine to obtain favor. She simply didn't believe his sixth Highness would be an unreasonable person and spoil the concubine while neglecting the wife.
Translation notes:
[1] Hour of Mao is 5-7 am
[2]Swan goose sending love letter is derived from another Chinese idiom, meaning to exchange correspondences (in this case love letters)
[3] Bureaucrat residence is a temporary residence provided for officials who travels
[4] Pang Yang's princess title is actually not that accurate translation as in Chinese her title "郡主" is usually bestowed to the emperor's extended family who shares the same surname, thus her actual title should be princes of the second rank or princess of a commandery
[5] Thread on the muddy water is a Chinese phrase that means to get involved in the trouble
90
When Mo Wan Qin heard gatekeeper report the sixth Highness's cefei came to pay a visit, she was quite surprised. Did just this lady Mu with sixth months pregnant belly drop in on them? Could it be she came to seek justice for her younger sister?
"Little sister-in-law, qie must have caused you many inconveniences for turning up uninvited." Mu Xi Yao smiled up brightly. One couldn't tell she came to pick a quarrel with them.
"Not at all. We're sister-in-law, after all. You needn't be polite with me." Mo Wan Qing courteously led her to Mu Xi Ting's courtyard, "Shufei has miscarriage yesterday. She's grieved for the whole night, not even willing to eat something. Little sister better persuade her a bit. Her body has already suffered damage, yet she won't recuperate. What is she going to do in the future?"
Mu Xi Ting miscarried. However, Mo Wan Qing wasn't even a bit elated. On the contrary, she was very unhappy. She's just taken over the authority over the governance of the residence for a few days, yet this kind of thing happened. They were clearly slapping her face. As soon as his Highness learned of this news yesterday, he immediately went to shufei's place and appeased her for a long while. When he came out, he began to give her a cold shoulder. As a result, she was actually relieved that Mu Xi Yao came at this time to help console shufei.
"You sisters have a nice talk. I won't stay. If you need something, just call the servant girl outside."
Mu Xi Yao nodded and thanked her. Only then did she had time to carefully look at the person lying on the bed.
Needless to say, her complexion was unsightly. The dark circles under her eye told Mu Xi Yao she didn't have enough sleep. The bed and beddings were clean and neat. She was being taken good care of.
"Do you want to die, don't you?" Since there was no outsider inside the room, Mu Xi Yao's face turned grim. When she saw Mu Xi Ting's more dead than alive appearance, an anger overcome her.
A reaction flickered in Mu Xi Ting's empty eyes. As she looked at Mu Xi Yao, her tears could not stop falling.
She had listened to the second sister's words and requested his Highness to move her into cefei's courtyard. Yet, she still fell prey to the other person's scheme and lost child. Yesterday, his Highness's patiently consoled her. However, it still couldn't pacify her inner pain. She had endured silently. Why could she not avoid this from happening?
"Second sister, I've contently stayed in the courtyard. I only ask to have a child at my side, whom I can personally bring up. That's all I need. I do not strive for favor nor do I get into conflicts with others. Why there's still no room for me in this residence?" Mu Xi Ting had a soft-hearted personality. She was used to rely on other people. Since even his Highness couldn't protect her child, what kind of hope could she have?
"If you don't want to be schemed by others, you have to learn to scheme against others. Is it your first time entering the inner yard that you don't know even these kinds of principles? It's not that someone has no room for you. It's having no room for all the women. If you're not even able to deal with the vile affairs in the inner yard, how can you have the capability to give birth to a child? Even if you gave birth to a child by a stroke of luck, how are you going to raise the child safely to adulthood?"
"Don't you forget. While you're despairing here, the culprit is rejoicing greatly in your misery right now. Don't get groundlessly hurt by others and not know how to retaliate. Although we, Mu House, are not a prominent nor noble family, there's no reason for us to get bullied by everyone."
Mu Xi Yao was infuriated by her resignation. She was practically a replica of Mu Xi Yao from the previous life. That silly woman did mistakes her whole life. Mu Xi Ting, however, was still young. She should not share the fate of her predecessor.
"What happened yesterday?"
Mu Xi Yao's lecturing did not wake Mu Xi Ting's will to survive. On the contrary, hatred began to surge into her heart.
"Yesterday, Jiang shufei visited with the young master. Everything was alright at first. Later on, the young master suddenly horsed around about wanting to fly a kit. As a result, cefei called people to take him to the garden to play. At the time, I was chilling in the water pavilion. Seeing so many people, I wanted to return to the house to avoid them, yet unexpectedly…"
Mu Xi Yao's eyebrows frowned deeply upon hearing her words. Jiang shufei? Could it be the woman who used to push around Di Wu Yi Zhao's wife and daughter in the previous life?
"Does that woman has one shu daughter?"
"Yes. His Highness got only two sons and one daughter, and she gave birth to his one son and one daughter. Usually, she acts arrogantly in the residence and is very favored by his Highness."
Mu Xi Yao's eyes darkened. This matter became difficult. That woman was Zhong Zheng Ming's favored concubine. However, she wasn't a bright one. This time, not only did she shoulder the accusations she has also sew somebody else's trousseau1. Even if they caught the clue and investigated further, they would, she was afraid, only catch the other party's discarded pawn.
"Xi Ting, nurse your body to health first. This matter isn't simple. Lady Jiang has probably also fallen prey to other's schemes. The culprit behind the scene is someone else."
Mu Xi Ting's hatred was originally directed toward lady Jiang. However, once she heard Mu Xi Yao's words, she instantly became a loss for what to do.
"The most important thing right now is to take care of your body and ask his Highness to put few capable people at your side. There are quite a lot of careless missions regarding the matter of miscarriage. Think about it carefully. Why would young master horse around about wanting to fly a kite during such a hot day? Moreover, little girls like to play with kite more. Why would the young master inexplicably take fancy to this girly toy?"
Mu Xi Yao was calm and composed, her words were clear and logical.
"Even if we followed the vine to get to the melon2, the other party has already thought up of a way to get away from the felony. You mustn't act on your impulses. Be careful. Next month, concubine Wu will arrive in Shengjing. At that time, I will come to pick you up to have a little get-together."
She's said already everything. Mu Xi Yao got up to say goodbye: "Remember, there are daddy and concubine Wu who hope you well. Don't do anything foolish."
Mu Xi Ting's eyes teared up. She nodded, complying.
Mu Xi Yao took Zhao momo to bid farewell to Mo Wan Qing. While turning over the archway, she happened to bump into an acquaintance.
"Isn't this the immensely favored Mu cefei of his sixth Highness's residence? Are qie's eyes deceiving qie? How come she came to visit with a big belly? Could it be to call on shufei? Yeah, you're sisters of the same household. You ought to visit one another. This shufei's fortune is a bit scanty. She has miscarried a child, after all. Just unbeknownst, whether cefei will catch the ill luck. It's better to be careful. Cefei's pregnant, after all. Right?"
Mu Xi Yao glanced at the gorgeously dressed woman in front of her who had her head pinned with gold and jade hairpins. She made a step backward to distance from her a bit.
"Who is it?" Mu Xi Yao asked the servant girl left by Mo Wan Qing.
"Replying to cefei, this is the newly taken Lin shufei by his Highness."
Recently, this mistress became favored by his Highness. She repeatedly talked back to Mo cefei, yet his Highness always only chastised her with few words, exercising no discipline on her. As Mo cefei's servant girl, she naturally disliked her.
It was her again. She was unfortunate enough to bump into her, Mu Xi Yao. The gaze filled with hatred in the Imperial Garden, Mu Xi Yao still remembered clearly.
"Slap her face."
Zhao momo and Hui Lan were stupified. Slap face? They subsequently looked at the mistress's expression. Sure enough, she was calling them. How did they dare to treat Mu Xi Yao with slight? They quickly called the servant girls and labor momos who were following behind them to hold that shufei and make her kneel. Pulling away the servant girls behind her, it looked like she was going to be hit.
The servant girl left by Mo Wan Qing looked at the scene before her with a silly expression. Her mind was thrown into a mess.
"You dare! This is the fifth prince's residence. If you dare to touch me, his Highness won't let you off!" The woman who was firmly restrained by people screamed madly. How could she know that lady Mu would be as arrogant as to hit people without the slightest scruple in someone else's residence? Since entering the residenceresidence, she's been pampered greatly. She did not even put cefei into her eyes. When has she suffered such a grievance?
"Lady Mu, don't you forget. This is not your sixth prince's residence. You have no say in beating people!"
Mu Xi Yao looked at the woman, who despite being subdued, still acted arrogantly and rude. She entered the pavilion aside and steadily sat down to have a rest.
"Hui Lan, refreshments."
Hui Lan's face twitched. Mistress, did you have to go out of the palace to put on airs? Hui Lan bowed her head and took the food box from a servant girl who always carried it with herself and successively served all kinds of pastries on the table. She passed Mu Xi Yao bamboo chopsticks and carefully attended to her.
"Such a shady place. Shufei must not be fond of it. Move her to the place with sunlight."
Seeing that woman being drag away and get down on knees outside the pavilion, struggling with all her might, Mu Xi Yao turned her head to gaze at the other side. The charming landscape of sunlight sparkling on the lake's surface greeted her.
"You also know that I'm used to being rampant in the residence? In that case, have you heard that I'm rampant only in the residence?"
The woman's voice was gentle. She uttered only one word, "Slap."
Translation notes:
[1]Sew somebody else's trousseau is a Chinese idiom meaning to paved way for other/behind someone else's success
[2] Follow the vine to get to the melon is a Chinese idiom meaning to track sth following clues