96
Consort Shu watched Mu Xi Yao who was being helped up by people in a daze. Her expression looked complicated. This girl was smart. Hence, how could she not discern that this was an already set up trap? Yet, she still put her own life on the stake, insisting on taking the big risk. However, how did she want to redress an injustice for one's fate? It is vague and intangible and relied on the Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar's deduction. Since Director of Astronomy and Calendar has already made a conclusion, who had capabilities to retort him?
"Your Majesty, this servant has heard that nobody is worthy to be called the leading eminence in fate divination except for the head monk of An Guo Temple." Mu Xi Yao did not retreat after getting up. Instead, following a short contemplation, she had again astounded people with words she spoke.
"The head monk of An Guo Temple went out on a journey for two years, and has not returned till now." Yuancheng Emperor also thought of asking the great master to personally make calculations. Unfortunately, this great master who lived in seclusion had no fixed residence. As a result, he had no way to check up on this matter. If they insisted on seeking the person, they would have to dispatch the shadow guards. A war will break out soon. All the shadow guards have received their orders a long time ago and left the capital to run their tasks.
Mu Xi Yao naturally knew that the head monk was not in Shengjing. If the great master was still here, these people won't dare to set about framing her at this point.
It was easy to get away if one was accused of false charges. However, no suspicions were tolerated regarding one's fate. If one wished to revoke the verdict, one has to reverse it neatly and beautifully. Today, she was almost being point at and cursed for being an ill-luck bringer. This kind of humiliation, she cannot bear no matter what.
"Since the great master has not yet returned, this servant won't insist on the matter." To Yuancheng Emperor's surprise, Mu'shi has actually dropped the matter with ease and mentioned it no more.
Empress Dowager also thought that Mu Xi Yao's last hope was the head monk of An Guo Temple. Unexpectedly, she did not demand to postpone days. She was actually very straightforward.
"Emperor, consort Liu is unconscious at the moment. The unborn child in her womb allows no delay. When will be this case put on trial?"
Yuancheng Emperor recollected Mu'shi's call for clansmen assembly. After a little consideration, he fixed up the date.
"At the hour of Si1 in two days, the clansmen assembly will be convened in Jiahe Hall. This case will be handed over to the Ministry of Justice to investigate. The Inspector of Astrological Service and Director of Directorate of Astronomy will supervise. Does Mu'shi have any objections?"
"This servant thanks for your Majesty's grace. There are no objections from this servant."
"Sixth!" Yuancheng Emperor got up and summoned Zhong Zheng Lin to accompany him.
Zhong Zheng Lin's face was as black as ink. When he looked into the pair of Mu Xi Yao's calm eyes, he only managed to leave behind a few words.
"Bendian will return soon."
Mu Xi Yao watched him leave with a smile. As soon as she turned, she meet with Zhong Zheng Ming's unfathomable eyes.
Zhong Zheng Ming looked at her. It was as if he saw again that maiden who had ordered grimly to kill the horse. Precisely such a woman dared to say in front of Empress Dowager and Emperor "personally ask to be removed from imperial genealogy, and a cup of poisonous wine".
As he departed and passed her side, Zhong Zheng Ming slowed his steps a little, "There are still two days. Bendian will secretly inquire about the great master's whereabouts on your behalf."
The man's deep and low voice resonated above her head. It was just a fleeting moment. Before Mu Xi Yao could react, the person has already gone far.
The group of women that followed behind Zhong Zheng Ming carried a stunned expression. Afterward, they recalled Mu shufei whom his Highness had treated generously. They immediately understood. Men indeed loved the house and its crow2. He will even look a bit after di sister of his favored concubine. Only one person didn't raise her eyes from the start. That person's heart was as clear as a mirror. Sure enough. Did he feel distressed for Mu Xi Yao?
—–
Mu Xi Yao was sent back to the sixth prince's residence by people consort Shu dispatched. As soon as they entered the door, Mo Lan and Hui Lan's eyes reddened.
"Mistress…." They've followed Mu Xi Yao for more than a decade. The mutual affections of master and servant was deep-seated. Learning that Mu Xi Yao was going to face the calamity that concerned her life and death all by herself in two days, they couldn't control their emotions anymore and broke into a low sober.
"What's there to cry? When did you see your mistress suffer a loss? This time, if I don't peel off a layer of skin of the person behind the scene, that person can forget about glossing things over."
Just as Zhao momo was raising her head and looking around anxiously for his Highness's early arrival, she heard mistress's fierce words that were spoken between gritted teeth. The sobs of two orchids came to a halt. They looked at Mu Xi Yao with a stupified expression on face, quite scared by her.
Did mistress's mind become muddled because she also knew that disaster was at hand? Right now, there was not even time for her to get away. Who would keep thinking about searching for the person to carry out revenge?
Danruo Courtyard fell into a strangely quiet atmosphere. When the servants received the news, they dared not to make any noise. They all carried a worried frown, distancing themselves far away from the main house as they were afraid that cefei would lash out her anger out on them. Zhao momo and the few attendants that had a bit of authority were, on the other hand, looking out for Mu Xi Yao so that she could peacefully catch up on sleep. They carried dumbfounded expressions on their faces as they looked at each other in dismay.
When Zhong Zheng Lin returned to Danruo Courtyard enveloped in an icy cold air, he saw Mu Xi Yao quietly lying on the bed, sleeping sweetly.
Watching the serenity and quiet elegance of the beautiful woman on the bed, Zhong Zheng Lin shut his eyes for a good while. Suddenly, he felt disheartened. He walked over and gently caressed her beautiful hair that was scattered by the sides of the pillow. He called her softly, "Xi Yao."
Mu Xi Yao was bothered by someone in her dreams. She rubbed her head and searched for a more conformable position to continue with her sleep.
Zhong Zheng Lin leaned against bedhead and, like that, he quietly watched her, sitting there until the nightfall.
The woman in the great hall today had a magnificent presence that was hard to find in this whole world. This was the Mu Xi Yao he has seen only once. Inside those beautiful eyes that were as proud and supple as blue sky dwelled such her.
This woman had her claws drawn in on usual days. Only when the circumstances required it would she display them in plain sight and unveil all of her extraordinary qualities.
"Jiao Jiao." Zhong Zheng Lin looked at the water clock and subsequently bend over to plant a soft kiss on her lips.
"Your Highness." As soon as Mu Xi Yao opened her eyes, she fell into deep phoenix eyes. They were steady and gentle. Tranquil and beautiful.
"Qie has caused troubles for your Highness."
This was Zhong Zheng Lin's first time hearing Mu Xi Yao express her apology in a bashful manner. He stroked her head and spoke lowly.
"Jiao Jiao exploited own life only to plead his Majesty to investigate thoroughly this case?" Not to mention one consort Liu, even if over a hundred and eighty women died in the imperial harem, Zhong Zheng Lin wouldn't have batted his eyelids even once.
"Your Highness needn't worry. A scourge like qie is bound to stay for a very very long time." Mu Xi Yao embraced his neck and teased him with a smile.
She hasn't had enough babies. Her predecessor's wish also wasn't accomplished yet. Even if she died she will have nowhere to run.
Zhong Zheng Lin wasn't as forbearing as her. In a manner as gloomy as before, he asked her, "How about bendian going to plead his Majesty to send you to Jiangnan, to keep you away from these things for some time. What do you say?"
Once he fixes up that gang of rebellious officials in the province of Shu and pulls the House of Duke of An Guo up by the roots, Mu Xi Yao will naturally return to his side.
Just now, he has already pleaded in the palace. Yuancheng Emperor did not grant the request. However, what did it matter? He had plenty of means to steal the dragon and substitute a phoenix3…
Go to what Jiangnan? Those scumbags weren't sorted out yet. Even if she was beaten to death, she won't go! She, Mu Xi Yao, has never in her two lifetimes thought of "running off while carrying a burden of crimes"!
"Your Highness, qie still waits to fix those treacherous sycophants. How can qie leave, leaving behind such a fun?"
See her talking with smile, seeming not to be joking, Zhong Zheng Lin's brows knitted tightly. He turned silent and spoke nothing. "If your Highness is mindful, your Highness may send people to Lu Shui, to ask the great master to return to the capital. It would be for the best."
The old monk should be true to his words. The affinity from that time in return for today's reciprocation ought not to be regarded as being out of line.
Zhong Zheng Lin's phoenix eyes instantly brightened up with a dazzling light. The expression he carried while watching Mu Xi Yao was not good.
"Jiao Jiao's been hiding light under a bushel4, being very forbearing."
"Your Highness, the round trip from the capital city to Lu Shui takes over ten days. Water from afar cannot help extinguish the nearby fire5. It's merely adding flowers on brocade6. As for that sir Director. When it comes to his calculations, he still got a lot of work to do." Mu Xi Yao let out a light chuckle.
On the same evening, the commander of the sixth prince residence's bodyguards together with the head of shadow guards simultaneously departed on fast horses, heading to Lu Shui of Chongzhou.
—-
The imperial palace. Yuye Palace.
"That Mu'shi put a stake on her life and pleaded his Majesty to file the case for investigation today. Could it be that this ploy has a loophole that would allow her to turn the tables?"
"Big sister, what loophole is there to check upon? Her date of birth and the eight characters are in black and white. She has no way to deny this fact."
"Is that sir Gan really like what rumors say, no one is his equal in matters of fate divination in the Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar?"
"Yes. That person is a man of true talents. Furthermore, not all of what has been said today were empty words. Mu'shi's fortune, indeed, conflicts with that of consort Liu's. However, as for being unfavorable to the imperial clan…who knows? It's half true and half false, hard to distinguish wherever it's genuine or fake."
"Everything must be in complete secrecy. No one from Gan residence is allowed to get away!"
"Rest assured, big sister. Qie has already ordered people to keep eyes on them. However…..his Majesty flipped consort Shu's card tonight."
"it's merely to appease her. What's there to be afraid of?"
The noble consort clenched tight the jade scepter in her hands. When she called to mind this coordinated action devised by Duke of An Guo, she actually felt somewhat impatient.
Translation notes:
[1] Hour of Si – 9-11 AM
[2] House and its crow is a Chinese idiom that means if f you love someone, you will love anything about that person
[3] Steal the dragon and substitute a phoenix is a Chinese idiom that derives from Sun Tzu's Art of War, means zo perpetrate a fraud
[4]Water from afar cannot help extinguish the nearby fire is a Chinese idiom that means a slow remedy does not address the current emergency
[5] Hiding one's light under a bushel is a proverb that means to conceal talents or abilities
[6] Adding flowers on brocade is a Chinese idiom that means to decorate something already perfect
97
The trial of consort Liu's unconsciousness has not yet begun, the rumors already began to spring up everywhere in Shengjing. All the attacks were pointed at the sixth Highness's cefei, lady Mu. It was said that she afflicted her husband's and son's fortune, lacked blessing and was destined to die young. What's more, her bad fortune will affect her clan and even bring disaster to the nation!
Mu Xi Yao listened to these stories with keen interest, taking pleasure in them. The people behind these rumors had a good imagination. Unfortunately, they weren't gutsy enough. They could use, for instance, the reincarnation of evildoer, the doom bearer, acting in defiance of the natural order, unable to be tolerated by Heaven. These kinds of portrayals matched the accusations of her origins. They also fitted the identity the transmigration deity has specially arranged for her.
When Tian Fu Shan reported the news, he was overwhelmed by the scare and trepidation. He was so fearful, his whole body kept shivering. Every time a word came out of his mouth, his Highness's face would darken a shade. Right now, his face was as black as the bottom of the pot, unable to contain his fury.
What was even more terrifying than his Highness was cefei's smiling and overjoyed face. The more one looked at this scene, the more daunting it became. Watching the strange reaction of mistress Yao, Tian Fu Shan had an illusion of an evil wind blowing by in the broad daylight.
"Your Highness, Duke of An Guo has racked his brains and struck a concerted blow from both inside and outside this time. He, indeed, did give a lot of thought to this scheme." That old geezer's way of doing things was truly fool-proof, attacking just at the right time. Unfortunately, when one plots too much a flaw will eventually appear in one's scheme. The only difference was whether this flaw was fatal or not.
"In order to inflict a devastating blow upon bendian, many people have joined forces and disregarded their mutual enmity." The crown prince's pushing the waves and adding to the billows1 has thrown the door wide open to suit other's convenience. His contribution cannot go unnoticed.
The one who was acting unusual was actually Zhong Zheng Ming. Not only did he not throw stones at somebody who fell down a well, he even dispatched his men all over the place to scout out the whereabouts of the head monk of the An Guo Temple. He went as far as to take sides with him, which was out of his usual self. Today, he also secretly exerted pressure to prevent rumors from spreading.
Zhong Zheng Lin shot a glance at Mu Xi Yao who was sitting on the rocking chair and smiling like a cunning fox. His phoenix eyes were deep and serene.
Was it for this woman? He, indeed, doesn't give up.
After this episode passes, he'll wait for them to move to the residence outside of the palace. Mu Xi Yao better behave and wait for the arrival of their child. She will have to abide by her a month-long postpartum rest and recuperation, and won't be allowed to leave the gates of the residence even half a step. It was to avoid her parade ostentatiously through the street2 and seduce other men. Toward Mu Xi Yao's rotten peach blossoms3, the sixth Highness found them quite disdainful and condemnable.
He feared that the matters in Shu province couldn't be delayed anymore. Already two groups of dead soldiers have come for him. That day when they had been exterminating the bandit's den for the whole night, they've already inadvertently alerted the enemy. The other party is, right now, exerting a final struggle. It was most probable they would return to retrieve the lost ground. Zhong Zheng Lin took into consideration Mu Xi Yao's delivery date and then thought of consort Liu's case. If Mu Xi Yao is truly able to "give them a lesson" as she said, the situation would, on the contrary, turn for good.
—–
"Do you mean that his Highness's personal guards are not in the residence?" Wan Jing Wen snorted when she saw the contempt on Zhu Jin's face.
Where else could be his Highness's personal guards at this time? His Highness was merely putting his faith in luck and delusional in his thoughts of bringing lady Mu a chance for survival. What a pity, Heaven was not willing to fulfill the man's wish. How was it possible for the great master's whereabouts to be found in two days? Even if lady Mu was hit by luck, the great master won't be able to make it in time to the capital.
If she remembers correctly, the great master returned to the capital several years later, just in time to chance upon Empress Dowager's funeral in her previous life. He has specially chanted sutras for Empress Dowager for half a month before departing yet again. Wan Jing Wen looked at the glorious hibiscus flower in the vase. Smiles engaged her face. Lady Mu, farewell.
—–
He Lian Min Min wished she could immediately leave the palace and ask her father whether they could push a bit the trial in the Ministry of Justice. Although sir He Lian was impartial and fair, however, if they were able to eliminate Mu Xi Yao this time, He Lian House will surely become even more stable. If his Highness had no other offsprings, she will, without doubts, get what she wants. So, perhaps, father will make a little concession?
—–
He Lian Zhang cast aside the letter in his hand that contained He Lian Min Min's entrust. He took the teacup and closed his eyes to taste tea.
Foolish! Before this, he had thought this di daughter of his made a slight progress. Now it seems…unfortunately, his most favorite daughter had a frail body since childhood. Otherwise, the one entering the prince's residence ought to be Wei Rui.
—–
"Mistress, the men his Highness dispatched were intercepted by our lord."
"His Highness truly has strong affections for her." The female's voice that was full of bitter resentment stood out in the boudoir.
She got up to sit in front of the dressing table. A slender jade-like finger with gorgeous red nails traced over the picturesque eyebrow. The spite inside her eyes lay bare for people to see.
"Such a scourge. She's bewitched his sixth Highness, yet she's still not satisfied. Tomorrow. After tomorrow, no one can occupy his Highness's mind ever again."
—–
"Jiao Jiao, if things take another course tomorrow, behave and do whatever bendian tells you. You're not allowed a disobedience." Zhong Zheng Lin lifted Mu Xi Yao's chin and gave her an ultimatum.
Mu Xi Yao leaned against the man's chest while nodding docilely. Things will naturally take another course tomorrow. She will be very busy. Tonight, she has to go to bed early to recuperate and build up energy.
"Your Highness, remember to order people to feed the rabbits on qie's behalf tomorrow morning. They have to be let out and hop a bit. They grew up to be too chubby….." Mu Xi Yao's voice gradually turned to a whisper.
Zhong Zheng Lin held her in his arms and stared at her sleeping face. He leaned over to plant a kiss on her forehead.
The sixth Highness sighed deeply. The last words this woman spoke before falling asleep were not endless whispers of love but instructions for those damned rabbits. If he knew back then that those pair of rabbits would divide her attention, he would have not sent them over to have her raise them. Or perhaps, when they move out of the palace, he will leave the rabbits in consort Shu's palace and place them in her care?
—–
In Fengan palace, Yuancheng Emperor nodded to the elder at his side, "Imperial uncle, zhen will have to trouble you with today's clan assembly."
"Not at all, your Majesty. As the clan elder of the imperial family, this matter is part of my job. Once a man gets old, he seeks only for the harmony in the clan. What he wants to see is merely a prosperity of progeny and birth of outstanding generations."
The grand prince of Yi4 had a benevolent expression on his face. He was enveloped by solitary clouds and the wild crane5a Chinese idiom that means to be as unworldly as/ to have no fixed place of abode/efn_note] like air of idleness.
Empress Dowager looked at him with a smile and complained, "If thirteenth brother has nothing to do, then stay in the palace for a few more days. Since the passing of the late Emperor, aijia hasn't seen sister-in-law for a long time."
"She doesn't like rules in the palace. What's more, she hasn't behaved even once in her life." The grand prince of Yi shook his head.
Gu Chang De looked at the water clock and took a few steps forward.
"Your Majesty, the time has come."
Yuancheng Emperor rose up. Everyone, thereupon, moved to Jiahe Hall. The minister of Justice together with the Inspector of the Astrological Service and the Director of astronomy were already waiting at the side. Only when the three at the seats of honor took their places, did they finally sat down respectfully. Following behind them, each of the secretary of the Ministry of Justice took their seats, waiting for the trial to begin so they could inscribe on their scrolls.
The rest of the imperial princes and members of the imperial clan had only their principal consorts to accompany them. They've all successively sat down.
"Cefei enters the hall."
Zhong Zheng Lin's gaze followed the woman who slowly entered the room. His eyes didn't move from her for a moment. Mu Xi Yao was attired in the palace robe of prince's cefei. She bore graceful manners and acted calm as well as at ease. Her flawless fair face was clean and glossy, shining with splendor like a beautiful peach and plum blossoms.
"This servant pays respect to your Majesty, Empress Dowager, and the thirteenth grand uncle." Mu Xi Yao curtsied respectfully.
Upon seeing her limpid gaze, the grand prince of Yi nodded slightly, "No need for formalities."
"Your Majesty, since this Mu'shi is pregnant and this trial won't end anytime soon, what about bestowing her a favor and grant her a seat?"
Having received the order, Gu Chang De promptly went to bring a soft chair.
"This servant thanks your Majesty and imperial grand-uncle for showing solicitude."
The grand prince of Yi shot a glance at the direction of Zhong Zheng Lin, revealing a tiny smile. Lad, the solicitude you've pleaded for, grand uncle complied with your request. Unbeknownst, how he would thank him later. He stroked lightly his beard, very expectant.
"Cefei has previously claimed being framed in the case of consort Liu's unconsciousness. Do you suggest that the Director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar sir Gan spoke of false words?" The minister of Justice adhered to the procedure and questioned her.
Mu Xi Yao looked at the figure that was standing as straight as a ramrod and answered without hesitation, "Yes."
"In this subject's knowledge, sir Gan is the most acclaimed authority on birth chart matter in Shengjing at the moment. Whom does cefei plan to ask to challenge sir Gan in the court?"
Everyone quietened with rapt attention, filled with curiosity. Who was the one able to make Mu cefei willingly risk her life to put up a fight?
"No need. Qie will speak with him by myself." Mu Xi Yao softly shook her right hand, having a card up her sleeve.
Apart from Zhong Zheng Lin, everyone else was dumbstruck. Their gazes were fixed on the woman who stood in the middle of the great hall with a calm expression on her face.
Fate divination was something that could be spoken casually? The learning in this area was so abstruse. It wasn't something a mere woman could encroach on.
"Qie is not well-versed in face reading. However, qie has dabbled a bit in chi reading. Qie has heard that maestros in divination can distinguish people by their handwriting. Is it true?"Mu Xi Yao looked at that Director and raised her eyebrow.
"What cefei says is right." Not only did Director Gan nodded, even the two from the Astrological Service and the Directorate of Astronomy, who came to audit, gave nods in succession.
"In that case, qie would like to ask sir Director to showcase the skill on the spot." After her words fell, she ordered people to bring three sets of pen and ink and lay them down on the table.
"The director shall withdraw for the time being." The minister of Justice gave assent to Mu Xi Yao.
Sir Gan was asked to leave the great hall. Mu Xi Yao curtsied the grand prince of Yi, "Qie asks grand uncle to randomly appoint two women to write together with qie."
Two attending female officials stepped out. The grand prince of Yi stroked his beard and spoke, "Write character "people" then."
To avoid a collusion and false confessions, Mu Xi Yao requested a screen to cover them up and block other's sights, allowing only the three on the seats of honor to see them.
Soon, the three people put down the pen. The grand prince of Yi checked up the paper Mu Xi Yao handed over from a nearby place. As soon as he took it, he found something odd about it. He slowly twirled the paper at his fingertips. A bright light flickered in his eyes. What a witty little girl. On the outside, his face showed no change of expression. He turned around to pass the paper to Gu Chang De who was keeping watch at the side.
Once the Director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar was invited to the great hall again, everything resumed to its original state.
"Please take a look, Director." Gu Chang De passed him three papers. The handwritings were vastly different.
That Director spread the paper one by one and identified them carefully. Afterward, he gathered together his five fingers to take attentive measurements and calculations.
After a quite while, sir Gan stepped out.
"This one "people" character is written in a law-abiding, upright, stiff and wooden manner. All the author's distinct style is lost. Upon observing this person's chi, this person should be occupying a servant like position for a long period of time. She is accustomed to obeying orders and the servility is already engraved in her bones. This should be written by the palace maid or a female official."
The grand prince of Yi nodded in approval. Everyone immediately became excited. This Director has actually hit the mark with a single comment. He truly had a bit of real skills.
"Your Highness….." He Lian Min Min was elated inside her heart. Yet, her face revealed none of her emotions inside.
"Stay quiet." Zhong Zheng Lin was well aware of Mu Xi Yao's quick-wits. He truly doesn't believe that this woman won't make any tricks.
"The "people" character on this paper is written in a graceful and subdued manner. It bears a distinguished mannerism. Upon observation of this person's qi, this person has a proud personality and is rich in knowledge. Everything goes smoothly for this individual. She was born into a happy and harmonious family and raised by a prominent house. Only under cultivation of one's mind and enveloped by a cheerful environment could one achieve such a graceful handwriting. In the art of divination, this person carries a menace in her blessings. This one should be written by cefei."
Carrying a menace in blessings? Everyone looked at calm and relaxed Mu Xi Yao, inwardly shaking their heads. She was, indeed, not blessed with good fortune.
The grand prince of Yi nodded. "Yes. Take a look at the last one."
Of the three papers, he was right about two. Consort Shu, who was seated at the side, was consumed by anxiety.
"The last character. This individual puts this subject to shame. The one who wrote this character has a mind so broad, one can hardly come by such a person. Enveloped by elegant and harmonious air, bearing a great benevolence and virtue. Her entire life is destined to be filled with both happiness and prosperity. An extraordinary woman. This subject dares to make a guess. In the future, this person will certainly elevate to foremost status and accompany by monarch's side."
Once these words came out, everyone's expression instantly became peculiar. Could it be that among those two female officials, there was one who was a pearl shrouded by dust and in the future that person will see a meteoric rise in ranks? Their Ladyships were particularly cautious. They've thoroughly sized the two up.
Empress Dowager glanced the those two people who were obviously scared witless. No matter how she looked at them, they didn't resemble someone of tremendous fortune.
Listening to his words that were spoken with fervor and assurance, Yuancheng Emperor's expression was unfathomable.
Originally, the grand prince of Yi was leisurely watching the show. Right now, however, he was choked by those words. After a fit of coughing, he waved his hand vigorously, "Wrong. Wrong. A big mistake. A big mistake."
Zhong Zheng Lin's bride going to accompany by the sovereign's side? The grand prince of Yi looked at Yuancheng Emperor. How was he going to report this?
Translation notes:
[1] To push the wave and add to the billows is a Chinese idiom that means to add fuel to the fire
[2] Parade ostentatiously through the street is a Chinese idiom that means to show off
[3] Rotten peach blossom is a Chinese phrase for unwanted admirer/wooer, bad romance
[4] Prince of Yi holds prince of first rank title which is a title privileged to brothers and sons of the emperor
[5] The solitary cloud and the wild crane is a Chinese idiom that means to be as unworldly as/ to have no fixed place of abode
98
"How is it wrong? Do not hesitate to speak out, imperial uncle." Seeing the grand prince of Yi's hesitation, Yuancheng Emperor immediately smelt a rat in the matter.
"This…..your Majesty, of the three characters, except for the first one which was written by the female official, the other two all come from the hand of Mu'shi."
"What?" Empress Dowager was aghast. She abruptly turned around to cast a piercing glance at the person standing underneath whose face turned deathly pale.
"Absolutely disgraceful!" Empress Dowager Jin slapped the table and stood up.
Mu'shi can accompany by the sovereign's side? Were they implying that Yuancheng Emperor will snatch his daughter-in-law by force or that Zhong Zheng Lin will seize the throne and plot a rebellion? No matter which one it was, once Empress Dowager thought of it, her mind was dizzy with anger. If such a disregard of moral ethics happened, how could she have a clear conscience before the late Emperor's assiduous entrustment?
Everyone in the hall was dumbstruck. According to that Director's reckon, the calculations before and after were not only contradictory but also diametrically different. One person carried menace in blessings, the other one was blessed with tremendous fortune. What's even more absurd, the sixth Highness's cefei was going to accompany by a sovereign's side now and forever? Once they understood the bottom line, they were so frightened they instantly turned quiet. Just this one sentence, not only will that dog official1 have a difficult time to preserve his life, even them, people who were seated underneath, will be seen as fishbone stuck in throat2 by Yuancheng Emperor.
"Your Majesty. Spare this subject's life, your Majesty. It's impossible, impossible! How can one person have two birth charts? Cefei must have been prepared beforehand, trying a futile attempt to flee away from her offenses."
"You lowlife! Ben wang3 has overseen the whole process in person. Those two papers were also handed over to Gu Chang De by ben wang. Are you saying that ben wang lacks in morals and aids that Mu'shi in deception?" Overcome with fury, grand prince of Yi pointed at the person kneeling on the ground who was crying out for justice.
"Who is the grand prince of Yi for you to question him?" Yuancheng Emperor's face turned menacing. Looking at the shivering figure below, a killing intent arose in his heart.
"Your Majesty…this," the Director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar was so scared he wiped his sweat and quickly remedied the situation, "Reporting to your Majesty, the miscalculation may be due to strangeness of cefei's birth chart, which is different from other people. Moreover, this subject did not make a mistake in the initial calculations. This proves that the divination from that day was not just an empty talk. This subject asks for your Majesty's judgment."
The minister of Justice contemplated for a moment. Subsequently, he got up and reported, "Your Majesty, this subject has heard that one was already considered as mighty for making out two-third of divination. It's reasonable that the director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar would make a mistake. Just based on this clause, cefei can only prove that the Director's words are neither completely justifiable nor wrong. Yet, it cannot completely overthrow what the director had derived to on that day. Right now, it seems that the words the director has said about cefei's birth chart conflicting with consort Liu's and being unfavorable to the imperial clan, whether right or wrong, may all be possible. How does cefei wish to prove that he's truly wrong?"
"Correct. Correct." That director grabbed at the straw and kowtowed vehemently.
"Don't be impatient," Mu Xi Yao chuckled. "Qie tested you only to prove that your calculations count for very little."
Yuancheng Emperor and Empress Dowager felt uncertain about the matter of divination. They already began to hesitate. No matter what ending will befall Mu'shi, the person who dared to make a presumptuous speculations about Emperor and his harem was doomed to die.
Seeing that Yuancheng Emperor's attitude toward Mu Xi Yao softened, Zhong Zheng Lin's long and narrow phoenix eyes glowed with vibrant light.
Being caught and framed with the matter of fate that was most difficult to dispute, finding herself at desperate straits, yet still able to handle a butcher's cleaver with ease4. Mu Xi Yao was indeed exceptional. She did live up to mister's praises.
"Your Majesty, this subject thinks one would rather believe in divination than neglect the issue." The director took advantage of the situation and kneeled down, offering his word of advice. If he doesn't take down Mu'shi today, a calamity will befall him. When he called to mind the ruthlessness of the one behind him, his heart became filled with terror.
"You needn't say these frightening things just to raise an alarm while hurrying to put qie to death." Mu Xi Yao took her time to get up. As she watched the still struggling person, a contempt crossed her face.
He was a complete fool! He wouldn't be worthy of her worries if Yuancheng Emperor was to let him off this time.
"Qi reading is basic in the study of divination. Yet, you're struggling with it. What's there to say about face reading? Today, qie won't make things difficult for you. After the great master returns to the capital, he will naturally clear qie's name.
Hearing her speak so confidently, Empress Dowager was puzzled inside. Could it be that Zhong Zheng Lin has already found the head monk of An Guo Temple?
"Sixth, have you found the great master's whereabouts?" Yuancheng Emperor had the same question. Since he had news of the great master, why didn't he report it?
Zhong Zheng Lin swept a glance at Mu Xi Yao's place and coldly nodded his head, "Yes! Just this morning, news of him has been found. It will take a few days to escort the great master back to the capital."
Although he didn't receive any reports yet; however, since Mu Xi Yao said he was in Lu Shui, he will trust her then.
Yuancheng Emperor and Empress Dowager looked at each other and nodded. Since the great master will return to the capital, this case will have a conclusion.
"Your Majesty, since the great master will return to the capital in a few days, should this case be adjourned and reviewed later?" The minister of Justice asked for Yuancheng Emperor's judgment. In his opinion, the best option was to fix the tone with a single hammer blow5. It was a much better solution than the specious situation and standoff right now.
He Lian Min Min lowered her head and clutched forcefully her fists.
How come this matter was full of twists and turns6?! Once the great master returns to the capital, he can, maybe, snatch Mu Xi Yao from the jaws of death. Could it be she had to let her continue with her insolent acts?
He Lian Min Min looked at sir He Lian who was seated behind minister of Justice. The anxiety made her feel like she was sitting on pins and needles7.
"Your Majesty, consort Liu can wait but the imperial offspring in her womb cannot." Consort De quickly spoke up when she saw that the direction of the wind has changed.
The noble consort secretly schemed at the side. If they couldn't take Mu'shi's life today, they had to, at least, unsaddle her. As for the great Master of An Guo Temple…..of what use was a dead man?
"Your Ladyship consort De implies that the lives of bendian's cefei and child may be decided hastily?"
Zhong Zheng Lin's face was icy. He questioned consort De bluntly.
Yuancheng Emperor tapped lightly the table with his right hand, apparently weighing this matter in his mind.
"Reporting to your Majesty, there's no need to put off conclusion whether this case was fabricated or not. The truth will come to light today."
Just as everyone was waiting for Yuancheng Emperor to make a decision, Mu Xi Yao, who should have remained silent, abruptly appealed.
"Oh?" The movement of Yuancheng Emperor's hand halted. "Do you have a way to prove your innocence?"
Mu Xi Yao turned her head to look at Zhong Zheng Lin. She saw the man seated upright, his face as cold as an ice. It seems that he was dissatisfied with her acting on her own, bringing about yet another billow.
She was inwardly amused. Boss, rest assured and just watch the play. Qie will, at once, claim justice for your son. As soon as she called to mind that extremely adorable face of Cheng Qing, Mu Xi Yao was consumed with loathing for the person who sullied her birth chart.
"Replying to your Majesty, this servant needs only a quarter of an hour to fully discern the truth behind the case."
Mu Xi Yao declared in a strong and powerful manner, her voice filled with confidence.
A quarter of an hour? Yuancheng Emperor raised his eyebrow, contemplating over her words. It was a matter of life and death, yet she dared to talk wild words. He would like to see her capabilities.
"Granted!"
The crown prince and the first prince sat as straight as ramrods. An ominous glint passed through their eyes. A mere feeble woman, yet she dared to speak such conceited nonsense. She simply had no idea of death or danger. Uttering such boastful talk in the presence of his Majesty. If she was unable to fulfill her promise, she would be charged with the crime of deceit.
Mu Xi Yao languidly performed a respectful curtsy. Afterward, she slowly sat back on the soft stool and started her soft-spoken speech.
"The great Wei's legacy runs for thousands of years. The world acknowledges only two extraordinary women. The first known is the founder empress, Her Majesty Xian An Sheng Wu Empress. Her Majesty has married Wei Gao Zong Emperor, then Marquis of An Yuan, at the age of thirteen. She had assisted and accompanied him the whole journey, never leaving his side. They've gone through twenty-seven years of hardships, in the company of one another. Once Gao Zong Emperor unified the whole world, and found Great Wei, she could finally enjoy family happiness and retreat to the deep walls of the palace. Until later, when Gao Zong Emperor fell ill and was confined to bed by sickness, she's once again come back of retirement to govern the nation, bending herself to the tasks and exerting herself to the utmost for the good of the country. Gao Zong Emperor once said, having Sheng Wu Empress, he had no regrets in life."
Mu Xi Yao's face was filled with admiration while bearing a dignified expression. This woman's whole life was a legend. For Gao Zhong Emperor, she pursued great endeavors, joined the battlefield, and killed countless enemies. However, due to injuries, she was unable to have children. Yet, not only didn't she oppress imperial concubines, she was also extremely generous in spirit. She oversaw the imperial harem and preserved on behalf of Gao Zong Emperor eleven adult princes. Her mind was outstandingly broad.
Mu Xi Yao has once wondered whether the unrivaled Xian An Sheng Wu Empress was her transmigrator senior or not. Later, upon attentive investigation, she realized that she'd underestimated the common people. This woman was a truly remarkable person. Back then, she had no equal and was revered by all the people. As a born and bred citizen of Great Wei, Mu Xi Yao felt that this woman was far better than her. Just those eleven adult princes, it was not something she, Mu Xi Yao, could tolerate.
Yuancheng Emperor originally thought she was going to follow up a victory with hot pursuit and grab the Director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar's negligence to reverse the verdict. Unexpectedly, the development that has undertaken afterward surprised everyone. After Mu'shi sat down, she has raised another subject. Though her speech was full of sincerity and genuine emotions and she showed quite a deep reverence for Xian An Sheng Wu Empress, what did it have to do with this case?
Amid the confusion, he heard maiden speak slowly with a resonant voice.
"Apart from her Majesty the founding Empress, there was another legendary woman of remarkableness that has engraved in the history of Great Wei." Mu Xi Yao's lips were curled into a tiny smile, her every movement charming. A bright light flashed in her eyes, so sharp it intimidated people.
"Does sir Gan know who is it?"
Translation notes:
[1] Dog official is a metaphor used to describe those officials who are black-hearted, corrupt, exploitative, or take innocent people's lives
[2] As if having a fishbone stuck in one's throat is a Chinese idiom that means fig. very upset and needing to express one's displeasure
[3] Ben Wang is a first-person pronoun used by princes with titles
[4] Handling a butcher's cleaver with ease is a Chinese idiom that means to do sth skillfully and easily
[5] To fix the tone with a single hammer blow is a Chinese idiom that means to make the final decision
[6] Full of twists and turns is a Chinese idiom that means complications/setbacks
[7] Sitting on pins and needles is a Chinese idiom that means to be in an uncomfortable situation
99
The Director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar frowned deeply. Yet, he couldn't not answer, "Her Highness Hu Guo Princess Royal."
"Great true." Mu Xi Yao nodded. A dazzling light roamed in those beautiful eyes of hers.
"In the years of Jiaxing, the prince of Qin rose a revolt. He made a secret alliance with the regional governors of eighteen provinces and started a coup d'etat. At the time, Cheng Emperor was young, and the situation in the court was turbulent. The princess royal offered herself to carry out the military campaign. Her departure went on for as long as five years. During the period, she had fought three battles with the prince of Qin in Wei Shui, suffering not even one defeat. Later, at the mountain pass of Qinghai, she personally beheaded prince of Qin from the horse. Shortly afterward, she annihilated the rebellious faction and, thus, put an end to the "Chaos of Jing Xiang".
After the princess royal returned to the court, she turned in the military seal and left her duties with serenity. She merely assisted Cheng Emperor at the side with the appeasement of the refugees and execution of the new policies. In the thirty-seventh year of Jiaxing, the vassal state in the West combined forces with Mobei and raised troops at the same time. Both Emperor and princess royal led an army and took part in the expedition. One year later, Emperor withdrew troops from the front after winning battle against the vassal nation in the West. Following, he heard news of Mobei losing a great defeat. The Emperor was immensely pleased. At the Guangwu Gate, he received the arrival of the princess royal in person. However, what awaited him was the whole army attired in plain white mourning dress and a coffin."
Mu Xi Yao sighed deeply, mourning the death of the princess royal.
The people in the great hall, too, gasped in admiration, deeply moved as they listened to Mu Xi Yao speaking of that period of unrest and had called to their minds Hu Guo princess royal's magnificent deeds.
"Her Highness Hu Guo princess royal is an unparalleled heroine. Her brave spirit will remain forever." The grand prince of Yi praised loudly.
Mu Xi Yao nodded in agreement. Afterward, she lifted her eyes.
"Does sir Gao know the origin of Jiahe Hall?"
Did he thought that she asked for clan assembly, just for a dignity?"
"This…" The Director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar was drenched in sweat. He stumbled over his own words, unable to answer. This Jiahe Hall has been around for a long time. How would he know? Could it be related to her Highness Hu Guo princess royal?
"Sir is well-read, yet overlooks historical facts. Qie begs to differ." Mu Xi Yao shot him a glance and spoke in contempt.
Yuancheng Emperor's complexion was unusually ugly. The courtier of the fourth rank was actually unaware of historical facts. He could not even compare to a woman from the inner yard!
Mu Xi Yao raised her left hand. The wide hem of sleeve swept over in the air.
"Jiahe Hall is the palace quarters Cheng Emperor personally bestowed to princess royal. The tablet displaying Slender Gold calligraphy1 that is hung high in the middle of the great hall was written by Cheng Emperor."
At this time, the imperial concubines simultaneously looked up at the tablet. Jiahe Hall actually had such an origin!
Consort Shu looked at dignified and solemn-faced Mu Xi Yao in the middle whose words resonated with power as if she didn't know her. This girl brought her too much of astonishment. This kind of deep learning, how could it be possibly nurtured by ordinary people? Even members of noble and distinguished families could not compare to her.
The uneasiness in the noble consort's heart grew stronger. Based on Mu'shi's previous reactions and current domineering bearing, she wouldn't say so many things without a good cause. Moreover, with her learning and knowledge, how was it possible for her to shoot without aim2?
Mu Xi Yao paid no heed to others' reactions. She continued, "The princess royal died on the battlefield. Emperor grieved deeply. He held memorial services in Jiahe Hall for three months. Later on, he extended and rebuilt the palace quarters. All the sacrifice offerings, prays for blessings and imperial clan ceremonies were subsequently being held in the Jiahe hall. This customs runs to this day."
Mu Xi Yao turned around to fix her eyes on the Director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar. She questioned him with a stern voice, "Does sir Gan know what kind of fate Hu Guo princess royal carried with her birth chart?"
Sir Gan's knees went soft by compel of Mu Xi Yao's imposing momentum. He kept raising his hand to wipe his sweat with the sleeves.
"It seems that sir Director is totally oblivious of this matter. In that case, qie will have to trouble Inspector of Astrological Service to clear up confusion for him."
The Inspector, seeing Yuancheng Emperor nod, stood up to reply.
When the minister of Justice heard the Inspector of Astrological Service reveal the princess royal's birth chart, he was quite puzzled.
"May cefei forgive this subject's ignorance. However, it seems that this question of cefei's has no connection to today's trial."
"Sir is mistaken. There's a big connection." Mu Xi Yao shook her head.
"The calendar system in Great Wei has been alternated three times upon one time. The most recent time was seventy years ago during the period of Chongde. The birth chart sir Inspector has just now revealed was a record from the old calendar. Qie will have to trouble sir Director of Bureau of Astronomy to take measurements of birth chart and calculate it with the new calendar, and then give us a report again."
The Director of Bureau of Astronomy followed the order. He took up his pen to start the calculations. Before he finished the last character, his hand was already trembling violently. His face turned deathly pale. He grabbed the paper he'd written on and placed it on the side, taking a pen to conduct yet another calculation. He reckoned time and again, over and over till he finally could confirm there was no mistake.
He raised his head to look at the woman who stood all alone in the middle of the great hall. An extremely conflicted expression engaged his face.
Registering his odd expression, the minister of Justice turned his head and took over the paper that has been discarded by him at the side. As soon as the characters entered his eyes, he was so startled he stood up. A panic appeared on his face, "This…This…"
Yuancheng Emperor, upon seeing that their expression did not look right and receiving no reply from them, asked sharply, "How are the results?"
The Director of Bureau of Astronomy took a deep breath. He knelt to the ground and bowed down, "The princess royal's birth chart: Tenth year of the sexagenary cycle, the thirtieth year of the sexagenary cycle."
With a slamming sound, sir Gan took several steps backward and tripped on the ground in extreme fear.
"Impossible. It's impossible. How is it possible? How can there be such a coincidence in the world?"
"This, this is clearly…." Empress Dowager looked at Yuancheng Emperor in disbelief.
Yuancheng Emperor's face was shadowed with an unusual coldness and gloom. He looked at the person who collapsed on the floor. For a moment, he was being engulfed by animosity.
"Sir Gan, you're still in Jiahe Hall. Do you dare to look up and face Cheng Emperor's handwriting and repeat qie's divination?"
Sir Gan was so scared he kept shivering, his face as pale as death.
"The divination of Great Wei is based on calculation of week, day, and stars. The birth characters are the auxiliary. Qie and her Highness Hu Guo princess royal just happens to be separated by two full decades. Our birth charts are identical. If qie's birth chart clashes with consort Liu's, and is ominous to the imperial clan, can it mean that her Highness princess royal who shares the same birth chart as qie, is also the sinner of Great Wei as you claim?!"
Mu Xi Yao's right hand pointed at the despicable man on the ground. The woman's voice was sharp, and it rang at the ears of the present audience.
"What?" Everyone in the room exclaimed in surprise, their expressions dazed.
Consort De broke into shiver. She fearfully cast a glance at her Ladyship noble consort whose expression has turned ugly.
Just this one accusation was a capital crime deserving the punishment of nine kinship extermination. Daring to insult Hu Go princess royal who had died in the battle with Mobei; there was no such person in Great Wei.
He Lian Min Min clasped tightly her hands. As she watched the woman with an authoritarian voice, her mind was thrown into chaos.
That woman had fallen into such desperate straits, yet she could still calmly turn on tables. Now that she has the princess royal's reputation to protect her, who would dare to use divination against her?
Once Mu Xi Yao strikes, it was a fierce counterattack. She angrily rebuked with s a stern countenance.
"The war in Mobei is just around the corner, yet you publicly dishonor her Highness Hu Guo princess royal who had shed her blood on the battleground and whose soul is buried in the desert. Your motives are execrable! If the deceased soul of Cheng Emperor learnt how greatly has a later treasonous courtier humiliated the princess royal whom he had personally bestowed "Hu Guo" two letter, how would you have a face to kowtow at the ancestral shrine?"
Following Mu Xi Yao's string of words, Yuancheng Emperor's complexion turned livid. The war in Mobei was critical. How could he tolerate the predecessor's merits be insulted? In such a crucial moment, there was actually a treacherous courtier causing troubles? This kind of crime simply couldn't be forgiven!
Mu Xi Yao's momentum did not diminish. She seized the opportunity to press him further.
"Sir minister of Justice, this case cannot be more clear. Why aren't you pronouncing the sentence?"
"He shall be punished severely according to laws!" Yuancheng Emperor slapped hard the table.
The grand prince of Yi had a hard time to quench his resentment. "Lacking benevolence, righteousness, loyalty, and filial piety. He shall be led through the streets and beheaded!"
His reprimand could be counted as extremely severe. In Great Wei, benevolence, and righteousness, etiquette and filial piety were even more important than one's family background and origins. The imperial examination candidates from the poor and humble families might still possibly climb up the social ladder. However, once a person disregards benevolence and filial piety, not only won't be the person able to establish a foothold, after death the person also could not enter the ancestral shrine.
"The Director of Directorate of Astronomy and Calendar Gan Fu Wei had brought insult upon the sacred reputation of distinguished predecessor and made false charges against a noble member of the imperial family in the case of consort Liu. According to law, his nine kinship shall be eradicated and his name removed from the clan genealogy."
The minister of Justice concluded the trial. Gan Fu Wei let out a miserable shriek and immediately fainted.
While everyone was still gasping in astonishment, not yet recovered from Mu Xi Yao's magnificent counterattack, they heard her continue with her attacks.
"Sir!" Mu Xi Yao stood up in indignation. She supported her waist with one hand and looked straight into Minister of Justice's eyes, "Since Gan Fu Wei is truly involved in the fabrication of false charges, qie suspects this case implicates a wide number of people. The one behind it harbors unfathomable motives as he attempted to destabilize the
longevity of the Great Wei's dynasty!"
They mustn't think that the death of dog official of the fourth rank would make them escape unscathed! Mu Xi Yao swept her eyes at the left side, her words sharp and domineering.
"Although qie's knowledge is shallow, qie knows that one's birth chart is extremely confidential. Whence did Gan Fu Wei scouted out a birth chart of imperial clan's member? This is considered a prying into the ancestral shrine. In this case, not only did they intend to destroy qie's reputation, they also tried to consign qie as well as son born out of qie to eternal damnation. This is plotting against the life of the imperial clan's member. What's more, qie's lord, his sixth Highness, will be certainly implicated by qie. This is disgracing the progeny of the Emperor. Consort Liu is unconscious. Evidently, some other mystery underlies this matter. This is plotting against an imperial concubine. In the past few days, rumors raged all over Shengjing. Troubles were stirred up by false stories. This is misleading the common people. The war in Mobei is imminent, yet they've disgraced the distinguished predecessor. This is bringing disaster upon the fundamentals of the country. Could it be that such a big case is not worth to make sir Minister of Justice to submit a memorial for throughout investigation?"
Mu Xi Yao's expression was biting cold. Step by step, she drove the Minister of Justice into the corner. His complexion became taut due to her questions.
The case of consort Liu has actually become a serious case capable of destabilizing the fundamentals of a nation?
The grand prince of Yi watched at the side. Looking at the force of her character and listening to her words of conviction, he slapped the table and applauded her.
"Good! What a remarkable Mu'shi. Showing no fear in front of death; calm and cool-headed, with strong insight and keen observation. This case involves the collusion of people inside and outside. Machinations run quite deep. Today, ben wang will pull down this old face, and plead for justice on your behalf!"
"Your Majesty!"
"Imperial uncle needn't say more. Zhen will personally take up this case and punish severely the culprits." Before the grand prince of Yi could finish, Yuancheng Emperor has already declared his attitude.
Since the doubts over divinations were dispelled, Yuancheng Emperor understood that this case involved collusion of the inner palace and court. They've violated the Emperor's great taboo. Such a crime was unforgivable.
"The sinner Gan Fu Wei will be handed over to the Department of Interrogation and Torture to investigate. The ministry of Justice will detain all members of Gan House and set a date to lead them through the streets and beheaded them at Wu Gate. All the attenders in consort Liu's palace are to be sent to the Ministry of Justice, waiting for trial. Nobody is allowed to visit. This case will be handed over to the Ministry of Justice to investigate. The Department of Investigation will collect and sort the evidence.
From today onward, nobody in the inner palace is allowed to walk around without permission. Order the commander of the imperial bodyguards, Ji Huai An, to dispatch people and watch over each palace's entrance. The final decision of this case shall be determined after the investigations."
This time, Yuancheng Emperor has been thoroughly infuriated. They've dared to make a big commotion right under his eyes and involve the divination. In addition, the respectable Hu Guo princess royal has been insulted. If he was unable to investigate strictly this matter, wouldn't he simply become an incapable ruler who was unable to tell right from wrong? In a hundred years3, how was he going to face his ancestors?
This whole time, Empress Dowager was sitting upright with a gloomy expression. This time, not only has their faces reached rock bottom4, they've also almost took a person's life by mistake. Did they wish to destroy her merits and let her carry the karmic consequences in the old age?
"Daring to act on one's selfish ends. He shall be beheaded at the Wu Gate!" Empress Dowager hasn't paid attention to affairs in the inner palace for a long time. Right now, her heart was consumed by fury. She was aware that she had been deceived to a great extent by someone.
Following the imperial edicts voiced by the three on the head seats, the truth behind the case of consort Liu falling unconscious and Mu Xi Yao's birth chart came to light. The injustice was redressed.
Although Zhong Zheng Lin was sitting upright, his phoenix eyes were shining brightly. His scorching gaze fell on the maiden who was proudly standing in the middle of the great hall with her chin lifted up, not leaving her for a moment.
Translation notes:
[1] Slender Gold calligraphy is a type of regular script invented by Emperor Huizong of Song. The name "Slender Gold" came from the fact that the emperor's writing resembled gold filament, twisted and turned.
[2] Shoot without aim is a Chinese idiom that means to speak without thinking
[3] In a hundred years is a Chinese phrase that means one a person dies
[4] Face reach a rock bottom is a Chinese idiom that means to be thoroughly discredited
100
Mu Xi Yao was supported by Zhao momo, falling three steps behind consort Shu.
Beside her was the aloof-faced sixth Highness who walked in an imposing and firm manner.
He Lian Min Min was holding consort Shu's right hand, carefully attending to her. However, from the corners of her eyes, she glanced at Mu Xi Yao's glowing face.
She had, nevertheless, managed to escape…
At the moment, Mu Xi Yao was throwing Zhong Zheng Lin coquettish glances while being immensely proud of herself. Unbeknownst, when they were turning the corner, the sixth Highness pressed her against the palace wall and pinned her there, making her unable to move.
Seeing the sixth Highness sweep a glance at them, the attenders at rear looked forward and quickly avoided the two, following behind consort Shu's trail.
Just a moment ago, it was a crowd of people. In a blink of an eye, there were only two of them. Mu Xi Yao was immediately stupified. She looked around. Behind her was a mottled palace wall; a row of vermillion pillars in front of her. No matter how she looked at it, it was not a place for a lover's rendezvous.
"Yo-your Highness." She tried to push away the chest that was pressed on her.
"Mm~" Mu Xi Yao failed to push him away. Zhong Zheng Lin leaned over and captured her lips, ruthlessly nipping them.
The sixth Highness looked at the woman who has been enticing him this whole day. He cared not about her struggles. As soon as he caught the person, he immersed himself in a passionate kiss.
Mu Xi Yao was besieged by the man. Her chest tightened. A ripple fluttered in those watery eyes of hers.
Seeing her face dye with a flush and chest raise up and down, Zhong Zheng Lin finally released the person in reluctance. He teased and licked her lips for the last time.
"Jiao Jiao, if you provocate again, bendian won't let you off for the second time."
After he finished, he helped her tidy the hair on her temple and smoothen her palace dress. Subsequently, he took her hand and slowly walked ahead.
Mu Xi Yao followed behind him with a reddened face and short breath. As she looked at the man's dashing back, her eyes filled up with complaints as plain as day.
She didn't do anything! This man has become increasingly shameless. Engaging in inappropriate behavior in a broad daylight! Just as she was silently criticizing him with all her might, Zhong Zheng Lin suddenly looked back and narrowed his phoenix eyes to size her up devilishly.
"If you keep seducing bendian in such an amorous way, bendian will have to accommodate reluctantly in mother consort's palace."
Up till Zhong Zheng Lin led her to consort Shu's palace, this whole time, Mu Xi Yao carried an absent-minded expression. The sixth Highness's shameless words kept on ringing at her ears.
As she sat on the couch-bed and looked around at palace quarters that was the same as usual, Mu Xi Yao suddenly felt awkward. Embarrassed, she shifted her body. The tips of her ears turned red.
At consort Shu's territory….the more Mu Xi Yao thought the more she felt on the end of her rope.
On the surface, Zhong Zheng Lin replied to consort Shu's questions. However, from the corners of his eyes, he was constantly paying attention to that woman who has been teased by him. He found that she was unusually restless. The position of her hands has changed several times. What's more, she seemed to be eager to hang her little head down to the chest and bury herself. Suddenly, his mood was lifted. This was, indeed, interesting.
That little bride1 appearance of hers resembled him greatly the "cute bullied rabbits" she mentioned about. Every time the rabbit was teased by Mu Xi Yao, it would also shift its body and bury its head deeply.
"Mu girl." Consort Shu called the person with a smile. Today, Mu Xi Yao has raised greatly her prestige and made a beautiful counterattack. As they left the Jiahe Hall, she saw clearly consort De's terrified and dismayed expression.
"What happened? Perhaps, you're tired from today? Is your belly alright?" Seeing her sitting there quietly in a rather spiritless manner, consort Shu found her quite pitiful.
Consort Shu only took note of her expression. He Lian Min Min, however, saw clearly through her.
The bloody red lips, flushed tips of ears, and the uneasiness in her eyes…..plus the sudden disappearance just now…
Her heart clenched painfully. That was her husband. Yet, he was hugging another woman, being intimate and affectionate with her. They cared not about etiquette and in the palace corridor…..
He Lian Min Min's heart turned ice-cold. She felt that the more effort she exerted, the greater was her disappointment. His Highness showed no understanding of her situation at all. Otherwise, he wouldn't have trampled on the prestige of the principal wife.
Being suddenly asked questions, Mu Xi Yao immediately followed consort Shu's cue. The sooner she leaves, the better. This place was too wicked.
"Qie is a bit tired." She softly pouted at consort Shu.
"This child. You're tired, yet you won't tell us. Why on earth are you pushing yourself so hard? Go back and take a proper rest. You were quite aggravated by messy matters these days. Set your mind at rest and wait for the arrival of your child. You needn't busy yourself with paying respect to bengong. Just let Zhao momo bring Cheng Qing here so that bengong can have a look at him."
Right now, consort Shu could not be more satisfied with her. Not only could she give birth, she also knew how to raise children. Moreover, she was able to help Zhong Zheng Lin remove the obstacles. This girl had capabilities. She was an impressive one. If He Lian Min Min had one-third of her capabilities, she wouldn't have received Zhong Zheng Lin's spurn.
The two's sudden disappearance just now, although Zhong Zheng Lin used Mu Xi Yao's leg cramp and little rest as an excuse, she still had eyes and could tell what happened.
This son of hers was not someone with an honest character. As his mother, she naturally understood to some extent his temper. The reason why she asked such questions was to give Mu girl an out so that she would stop twisting like a fried dough twist. The sight was too exhausting.
—
"Come here." Zhong Zheng Lin looked at the person who intended to escape into the palanquin at the rear.
Mu Xi Yao's little face twitched. Your Highness, pay a bit attention to your image. If you don't want to put up a facade, at least don't compromise her, all right?
"Your Highness?" He Lian Min Min looked at Zhong Zheng Lin, puzzled.
"The principal consort shall head back first. Bendian will return after taking cefei to thank the imperial great uncle."
After his words fell, he drew Mu Xi Yao into his arms and climbed into the prince's palanquin, leaving He Lian Min Min standing lonely outside the palace with a face as cold as a frost.
"Mistress." Gui Lin reached out to support He Lian Min Min, but her hands were pushed aside by her.
"Head out of the palace, to House of He Lian."
—
"What did you say? Lady Mu came out unscathed?" Wan Jing Wen abruptly rose up. She propped her hands against the table. An astonishment filled her face.
Zhu Jin reported her all the information she's scouted out. She sighed to herself inwardly. That Mu cefei had formidable talents. To one's surprise, she could cope with ease even matters that involved divination of one's fate.
Wan Jing Wen's brows furrowed tightly. She closed her eyes and pondered for a long time.
The one behind this scheme had a strategy much more secretive than hers, yet that person wasn't able to succeed. Did it mean that if she was the one to undertake the task, she would also return empty-handed, and even suffer heavy casualties?
It seems that acting rashly is in no way feasible. She needs to find the right timing and deliver a fatal blow.
"Did you said that the great master will return to the capital?"
"Yes. His Highness said it himself."
Another change. As expected, anything that has to do with that woman will bring bad luck.
"Think of a way for brother to join the fifth prince's camp."
Wan Jing Wen was also helpless. He's been already successfully assigned under the first prince's command. However, who would have thought that Zhong Zheng Chun would suddenly fall into disgrace? This was contrary to her expectations. Furthermore, it deviated vastly from how things went on in the previous life.
—
"You're all good-for-nothing. Even in such a situation, you still let her escape."
The woman's slender jade-like hand grabbed the tablecloth in one grasp and smashed to pieces the entire set of white teacups.
"Mistress, since our lord's scheme has failed, he will likely not let you take any actions within a short period of time. On his Highness's part, he takes quite a care of Mu'shi, too. It's not appropriate to approach this matter in a too radical manner."
"That lady Mu….since we're not able to touch her, let's provoke the relationship between her and her sister, and come with a backstabbing."
"Mistress is wise. This subordinate will immediately release news and have those sisters alienate each other."
—
Inside Zhong Zheng Lin's prince palanquin, Mu Xi Yao was firmly trapped in the man's arms. Her little face was flushed delicately.
"Very pleased with yourself, huh?" Zhong Zheng Lin's voice turned dangerous as he spotted the smugness inside her eyes.
"Your Highness, if qie was not proud of myself, qie would have been stuffed into who knows what nook by you to take refuge a long time ago. Wouldn't that be extremely cowardly?"
"Jiao Jiao, the matter today will be skipped. Next time, if you dare to bet on your life again, no matter the result, forget about raising Cheng Qing and the one in your womb!"
Nothing scared this woman. Only the little guy who popped out from her womb could still, for the time being, act as a threat.
Zhong Zheng Lin's gaze was sinister. His expression seemed not to be fake. Mu Xi Yao was so scared her body trembled.
If not raised by her then raised by whom?
As if understanding the puzzle inside her eyes, the sixth Highness revealed the cruel and ruthless side he had never shown before.
"Since Jiao Jiao is being heartless and cares not about bendian's feelings for you, why should bendian be concerned about Jiao Jiao's children?"
"They will be naturally raised by. The. Principal. Consort." Zhong Zheng Lin locked her gaze. Each of his word was spoken clear and accurate.
The smiled-filled face of Mu Xi Yao immediately froze.
Well done, Zhong Zheng Lin.
This was the genuine cold-blooded and overbearing nature of the Emperor from the previous life. Sure enough, you can't change who you are.
For the first time, demoness Mu was utterly defeated in the clash between the two.
Translation notes:
[1] Little bride is a Chinese expression used for someone who always gets blamed or a punching bag