101
Qie pays respect to great uncle and great-aunt-in-law." Mu Xi Yao followed Zhong Zheng Lin's suit and respectfully bowed.
"All right, all right. You needn't bother with all these rules."
Grand princess consort of Yi was a beautiful woman who was in her early forties. On the contrary to her delicate outward appearance, she was a person of great boldness.
Mu Xi Yao's eyes lit up with stars. Yippeee! This beautiful aunt was her cup of tea. Just as she planned to shamelessly throw herself at her and ask for protection, she was coldly glared at by those phoenix eyes of Zhong Zheng Lin's.
"Great uncle and great-aunt-in-law will leave the capital the day after tomorrow and head to South Sea, settling there permanently. What do you want to do?" Zhong Zheng Lin was too familiar with her movements. As soon as he saw her dog-leg1 appearance, he immediately knew her good for nothing thoughts.
Want to rely on elders for protection, so that he could not manage her? Why doesn't she think of it; if her wish could be fulfilled, he absolutely wouldn't have brought her here today. The sixth Highness was nowadays extremely vigilant around Mu Xi Yao this demoness, fearful of her unceasing quirks.
"Little six, don't bully the lass. Look at how scared she is."
"Great-aunt-in-law~" Mu Xi Yao stared at the warning gaze of his sixth Highness while walking slowly toward the grand princess consort of Yi in a flamboyant manner.
"Great-aunt-in-law, qie heard that you've participated in the martial arts competition in your youth?"
"Huh? You know a lot. Did little six tell you about it?"
"Great-aunt-in-law," Mu Xi Yao turned her head to raise an eyebrow at Zhong Zheng Lin. "The little six," she deliberately dragged out the tone. Seeing the man's face long face, she continued with a chuckle, "He would, in no way, speak such things to qie. Qie was merely curious and has inquired her Ladyship Shu about these things." Her pair of beautiful eyes were extraordinary witty. She winked at Zhong Zheng Lin.
Did he think she would just wait to be captured without putting up a fight? Boss, you wait properly. In the future, she will train her voice mornings and evenings in Danruo Courtyard and keep calling little six….the more Mu Xi Yao thought the cheerful she became.
Seeing the two's expressions, the grand princess consort of Yi immediately understood. This little lass was remarkable. She could actually get the upper hand of that cold-faced knot2?
Very good. This is the spirit the women of Great Wei should have! As a daughter from a distinguished military family, the grand princess consort of Yi let out a hearty laugh. She pulled Mu Xi Yao to the side. The more the two talked the more energetic they became. Their conversation already moved to winter hunting.
The more Zhong Zheng Lin listened to them the blacker his face turned to. Nowadays, Mu Xi Yao already caused him great headaches. If her interest was piqued by great-aunt-in-law and fussed about going out, could he still have a peace?
"Great uncle." The implication in Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes was clear.
Grand prince of Yi stroke his beard and laughed. He opened his left palm and shook it twice.
The sixth Highness's eyes darkened. His chest felt tight with anger. He looked at Mu Xi Yao's glowing little face while narrowing his phoenix eyes.
She made him suffer a loss of five jars of High Mt. Oolong tea. How should he settle accounts with her about this debt?
Seeing Zhong Zheng Lin indifferently nod his head, the grand prince of Yi rose his eyebrow. This little lass was this important to him? He made a mistake! If he knew earlier, he should have flipped several times the amount.
He went over and coaxed the grand princess of Yi to go to the Imperial kitchen to check up the dishes. In the blink of an eye, he turned to smile good-naturedly at Mu Xi Yao with a meaningful gaze.
"Still not coming here?" The sixth Highness lacked awareness of himself being a guest at other's home. He looked at her quietly, insisting on her coming to him.
Noting that her backing was gone, Mu Xi Yao immediately trimmed her sails. Rocking her hips, she snuggled against Zhong Zheng Lin.
"How did Jiao Jiao call bendian just now?" Zhong Zheng Lin drew the person on his lap and settled accounts with her.
One day without a beating and she immediately scales the roof to rip the tiles3. In the great hall today, she grew a new branch out of a knot4. Before he could even debts with her, she had already rushed to receive his lecture and fixing.
Mu Xi Yao's dark little thoughts absolutely mustn't be known to Zhong Zheng Lin. She turned her eyes and docilely rested against his chest, uttering no words. She merely used her cheek to rub against him and meekly curried favor with him.
Since she has misbehaved, she had to do her utmost to enshroud this matter. Especially when it came to his sixth Highness who possessed the attributes of a beast. If he caught her out…as soon as Mu Xi Yao thought of it, her face colored with a blush.
Zhong Zheng Lin originally intended to have a bone to pick with her5. But then as he leaned over, he found that the little woman was embarrassed and her eyes misty.
The sixth Highness admired the view of a bashful beauty; while his mind slowly banished the thoughts of five jars of High Mt. Oolong tea.
Mu Xi Yao has dodged a calamity by pure accident. As she was wondering about how come Zhong Zheng Lin was so easygoing today, she heard the sixth Highness whisper few words at her ears. Afterward, a blush decorated her face. It did not disappear even after the meal.
"Little sixth, you don't have to come to see us off the day after tomorrow. Watch well after Mu girl, don't bully her." The grand princess consort of Yi pulled at Mu Xi Yao and attentively instructed few words to Zhong Zheng Lin before letting go of the person.
She did not yet made two steps and turned her head to admonish, "If someone was to bully you, bring a name card to Gu Su poetry society and look for old dowager Shen."
Mu Xi Yao nodded and thanked her. Half hugged, half carried, she was prompted to the carriage by Zhong Zheng Lin.
"Your Highness, sleepy."
Zhong Zheng Lin caressed her had and leaned her little head against his chest while patting gently her back.
"Be a good girl, lean against bendian and rest for a bit."
When the sixth Highness carried cefei back to the palace, the women in the inner yard collectively stayed quiet.
As He Lian Min Min recalled her father's words, she took up a pen to calm her mind with calligraphy writing.
"If you're unable to act as the sixth princess consort, then let Wei Rui enter the inner yard to devise schemes for you."
Sir He Lian's chilling warning was replaying at her ears. Even if she had to risk her life, He Lian Min Min mustn't let that woman enter the residence. He Lian Wei Rui was a daughter of a concubine. Her status was not as noble as her. However, she has received a deep favor from grandfather and recognition from father since young. She was beautiful like a flower, possessed outstanding talents and also harbored a treacherous heart.
This woman was even more abominable than Mu Xi Yao. At least, that Mu'shi has never taken an initiative to hurt people.
When He Lian Min Min called to mind Mu Xi Yao's countermeasure today, she had to exercise restraint on herself. Even father himself had commended that "only Mu'shi is equal to Wei Rui". It was thus clear, how difficult was that woman to deal with.
—
Yu Ye Palace. The noble consort's quarters.
"Your Ladyship, the message has been already sent out."
The noble consort's complexion was not good. She put her hand to her forehead and sighed deeply. To disengage themselves, they've suffered too deep of damage this time.
Duke of An Guo considered all aspects of this plot. The right time and place were brought together. Yet, of all things, they've left out a dead person! She only hoped that on her imperial son's side, he would be more resolute. He mustn't be indecisive and unable to bear the pain of losing an arm.
"Did his Majesty say when he will come over?" Yesterday, Yuancheng Emperor promised that he will come over to try glutinous rice wine balls made by her.
"This…" The chief momo hesitated for a moment. Nevertheless, she still decided to trustfully report, "Your Ladyship, his Majesty flipped consort Shu's card." Yuancheng Emperor has been resting in consort Shu's palace for three consecutive days.
"It's her again!" The noble consort was so angry she panted while her chest ached. She has fought with consort Shu for a lifetime. If it was not for the firstborn son, this noble consort position would have been probably already snatched by that wench.
The chief momo lowered her head in silence, daring not to speak.
—-
Mu Xi Yao rubbed her cheek that was being harassed and tickled by someone and dazedly opened her eyes.
Zhong Zheng Lin's handsome face, which was almost within reach, warmed her heart and delighted her eyes, "Your Highness."
"Follow bendian to the main house. Didn't you say about wanting craftsmen? You can go over and pick a few capable ones."
When Zhong Zheng Lin raised this matter, Mu Xi Yao finally recalled she was in need of staff. She has almost put it off.
"Your Highness, did father and his party pass through Lin city? When can qie see mother?"
"In only two-three days' time." Zhong Zheng Lin pinched her cheek and helped her get up.
After Mu Xi Yao freshened herself up, she drew the man's neck to her and gifted him with a squishing peck. Her kiss was filled with sultriness and cuteness.
Zhong Zheng Lin caressed her lips and sighed in regret, "Unfortunately, Jiao Jiao is with child. Otherwise, the summer lake outing would be very refreshing."
Mu Xi Yao curled her lip. Mention the pot that doesn't boil6. These days, she was seasick. As soon as she climbed the painted boat in Danruo Courtyard, she would feel stuffy.
"How about bendian taking Jiao Jiao boating to lake in Yunyang after returning from Shu province?"
Really? Mu Xi Yao's little face instantly brightened up. She hugged Zhong Zheng Lin's strong waist and wouldn't let it go, "Your Highness mustn't deceive qie." This kind of affectionateness, only his sixth Highness could enjoy it.
—-
The main hall of Chanruo Courtyard. The whole room of women watched Mu cefei miserably swallowing the crispy meat rolls his Highness picked for her. Was it that unpalatable?
Lady Zhang uncertainly picked the smallest piece and gently took a bite. Huh? It was very fragrant and crispy, light and fresh-tasting, like silk in one's mouth. In such a dry and hot day, it was very comfortable for breakfast.
He Lian Min Min, watching Mu Xi Yao putting on an act and stirring trouble in the main house first thing in the morning, merely shoot her a flat glance and paid no heed to her.
Lady Wu stood at the side. She lowered her head down and added dished for He Lian Min Min. As a concubine, she was not allowed to sit down beside the table. She could only watch mistresses in the inner yard with ranks of shufei and up using the meal. What's more, she had to cheer up and properly attend to them.
Su Lin Rou looked down on Mu Xi Yao's pickiness. She put aside the chopsticks and inquired her softly, "Is the food in the main house not to sister's taste? How about ordering the kitchen to specially prepare a few of sister's favorite dishes in the future? It's just that we'll have to trouble the principal consort and have her make extra directives."
This woman came here early in the morning to annoy her, didn't she? The dishes on the table were obviously refreshing to tongue, yet only she, with her ghost-like appearance, had too poor of an appetite.
Mu Xi Yao raised her head and looked around at everyone's faces, only to realize that she had incurred everyone's resentment. Wasn't it just Zhong Zheng Lin picking her two dishes? Could they not drop this matter and cease raising a hoot senselessly?
As Mu Xi Yao looked at bright red radish slices inside the white jade bowl, she held her breath. Underneath the table, she rewarded the sixth Highness with a graceful sidekick.
Blast it! This man was absolutely deliberate. He knew clearly she hated radishes, no matter red or white. However, he still sent them to her bowl. Such an unpalatable thing, yet it was actually regarded as a grace given by the sixth Highness? Mu Xi Yao expressed that she was very unhappy.
"If sister thinks what Su cefei said is reasonable, qie will give orders to the kitchen." He Lian Min Min indifferently uttered. It was merely adding a few dishes. Don't tell her the residence could not afford it?
"Don't be picky about food. No need to bother." For the first time ever, Zhong Zheng Lin spoke of Mu Xi Yao's fault in front of everyone.
Zhong Zheng Lin will not question what was in minds of this group of women. However, his own thoughts on this matter were clear.
Being picky about food, yet still daring to take liberties with him? The sixth Highness placed another piece of meat roll onto her bowl, completely ignoring Mu Xi Yao who was gnashing her teeth. When one fed a rabbit, one needed also to properly nourish it. How can he let her be choosy? As for the newly developed hobby, the sixth Highness found great pleasure in it.
Wan Jing Wen was not like the other women, stupidly thinking that It was Zhong Zheng Lin's warning to Mu Xi Yao. Based on lady Mu's expression, it was evidently just the two's private little spat, a spice to their every days life.
However, in this kind of unconventional interaction, there was clearly a sense of flirting.
Wan Jing Wen suppressed the anger inside her. From the corner of her eyes, she glimpsed Zhong Zheng Lin's big hand that wore a thumb ring. Her expression slowly became absent-minded.
It was these hands. In the previous life, they had touched every corner of her body. They'd lifted her hair to gently inhale them, showering her with praises. What's more, they'd held her son on the bathing ceremony. This man was so outstanding. Yet, he won't give her any tenderness nor protection. He let those women in the palace dishonor and ill-treat her and her son.
As she called to mind that pitiful child, Wan Jing Wen looked spitefully at He Lian Min Min who bowed her head to use soup. When she raised her head, her gaze happened to bump head-on into Mu Xi Yao's who was sitting beside Zhong Zheng Lin.
Wan Jing Wen was alarmed deeply. She quickly curbed her expression and lowered her head to silently use meal.
Translation notes:
[1] Dog-leg is a Chinese phrase used to describe someone who butters someone else up
[2] Knot is a Chinese endeavor, similar to baby/little one/little darling
[3] One day without a beating, and she will scale the roof to rip the tiles is a Chinese idiom that derives from three days without a beating, and a child will scale the roof to rip the tiles which means spare the rod, spoil the child
[4] New branch grows out of a knot is a Chinese idiom that means to deliberately complicate an issue
[5] To have a bone to pick with one is an idiom that means to want to talk to someone about something they have done that has annoyed you
[6] To mention the pot that doesn't boil is a Chinese idiom that means to touch a sore spot
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Mu Xi Yao slowly used the soup without batting an eyelid. Who had said that each woman of the inner yard had her own a story? It was indeed accurate.
Lady Wan's expression just now carried a bone-deep hatred. Her resentment run quite deep. Mu Xi Yao looked at He Lian Min Min. She actually knew nothing?! It was interesting. Could it be that just as palace intrigues have been put into rest, the inner yard struggles are going to emerge? Mu Xi Yao leisurely speculated.
"Your Highness, qie has already made a proper arrangement for the people chief steward had recruited. Does your Highness want to take a look?" He Lian Min Min respectfully asked.
"Bendian has troubled you. Call them in!"
Mu Xi Yao looked at craftsmen attired in coarse hemp garments in front of her. After asking them few simple questions, she left behind only two gardeners to specially care for Danruo Courtyard's rare flowers and plants. The rest of them were assigned to each courtyard.
After coming out of the main house, Mu Xi Yao used the opportunity to propose bringing a few household servants from Mu House. The sixth Highness gave it no thought. He directly assented to the matter.
When Mu Xi Yao called to mind the date He Lian Min Min has specially raised to Zhong Zheng Lin, corners of her lips curled up.
"Your Highness, principal consort has specially selected the first day of the next month from auspicious dates submitted by imperial astronomer. Qie understands well the implication behind." That woman not only wanted to use the wine banquet to heighten Zhong Zheng Lin's libido. She, furthermore, wished to benefit from the cheerful atmosphere of housewarming and get pregnant. What a good scheme she had.
How could Zhong Zheng Lin not know? He squeezed her little hand and took her to the garden to walk for two circles.
—–
On the afternoon of the next day, Gui momo came in to announce good news with a face filled with smiles.
"Mistress, delightsome news! The chief steward has passed a message. Master and madam will arrive at Songjiang port tonight. It's just a half-day drive. They will reach Shengjing at hour of Si tomorrow1.
"They will arrive already in the morning tomorrow?!" Mu Xi Yao got up excitedly. Rocking the fan, she paced back and forth in the room.
"Unbeknownst, whether his Highness will have free time." Mu Xi Yao furrowed her brows and muttered to herself, somewhat impatient.
Gui momo chuckled. His Highness has already figured out she would have such a question.
"His Highness has sent news. Tomorrow, he will accompany cefei to Mu House and hold a reception fro sir Mu. He's also specifically ordered the chief steward to sent servant girls and manservants over to assist them. The residence was tidied up a long time ago. It's a three-courtyard house mistress is fond of. The garden and pavilion are quite elegant."
Mu Xi Yao smiled sweetly when she discovered how thoughtful and attentive was the sixth Highness. Lord Boss was too mighty. The benefit of hugging a thick thigh was indeed reliable!
"Tell Chu Lan to send third miss a message that a small sedan chair will be sent to pick her up tomorrow."
"Alas. This old servant will immediately go to do the task." When Gui momo heard that sir Mu will reach the capital soon, her joy was no less than that of Mu Xi Yao. Due to sir Mu's transfer, not only can she meet with her son and daughter-in-law, she can also see madam again. It was naturally a great news to her.
—
Ever since receiving second miss's news, shufei stayed silent and looked dazedly at vase, lost in her own thoughts. Rui Zhu was very puzzled about it. Since entering the fifth Highness's inner yard, they've never again seen master and madam. This time, yiniang2 will also come to the capital. Yet, why was there no joy in the mistress's face?
If Mu Xi Ting received the message a few days earlier, she would be ecstatic. But now, no matter what, she just couldn't make herself to be happy. Originally, she thought that his Highness has finally come to care a bit for her. The tenderness in these past few days made her wallow in it. What an irony that it was all due to someone else…
—
"Mother!" As soon as Mu Xi Yao was helped down from the carriage, she immediately went to throw herself at lady Yu.
When lady Yu saw her lift the hanging screen and come out, her eyes couldn't help from tearing up. Who would have thought that as soon as that girl set foot on the ground she would scare her so much she was thrown in panic, "Aiyo, slow down a bit. Slow down a bit. How come you're still this impatient?!" Lady Yu quickly went over to grab her arm and reprimand her.
Mu Xi Yao took her reprimand as a wind that passed her ear3. She hugged lady Yu and then turned her head to pay respect to sir Mu, "Greetings to daddy." When she finished, her brows frowned, "Is daddy exhausted? How come daddy got so much thinner?" Her little head twisted from one side to another, watching attentively sir Mu as she sized him up.
"*Cough*" Mu Jing Zheng awkwardly looked at the sixth Highness. This younger daughter of his was still as unpredictable as ever. Even in front of his Highness, she showed no manners.
Zhong Zheng Lin was protecting Mu Xi Yao indistinctly behind her back. He was already prepared for her reckless behavior. When he saw Mu Jing Zhen use his gaze to hint Mu Xi Yao to conduct herself properly, Zhong Zheng Lin couldn't help but find it funny. If she could do what she's been told to, Shengjing wouldn't be in constant twists and turns these days and the matter of consort Liu wouldn't provoke so much discussion.
Under the fury, Yuancheng Emperor has put everyone in the palace under the house arrest. Consort Shu's palace was no exception. Just, her situation was a bit better compared to other palace consorts as no interrogations were involved at her place. For instance, in the palaces of the noble consort and consort De, servants were summoned for interrogation already for the second time. It was truly a scene of wind sighing and crane calling4. This time, even Empress Dowager has paid attention to this matter. From time to time, she would summon imperial concubines and scorn their actions. Under such circumstances, people in the palace were overcome with anxiety. Even as they were walking, they were afraid it would provoke a trouble.
Mu Xi Yao wrapped her arm around lady Yu's and followed behind Zhong Zheng and sir Mu's back. A bright smile engaged her face. Right now, she was boasting wildly to lady Yu.
"Mother, just look at how well is your daughter faring nowadays. And here you were groundlessly worrying about daughter." After saying that, she raised her face smugly, "The little chubby and big mansion daughter has promised you, all the commitments are honoured now." She then patted the bulge on her belly. However, her misbehaved hands were slapped away by lady Yu. Mu Xi Yao continued to cuddle with her, "As a matter of fact, there's an additional one. He will pop out soon to court favor with you. As for elder brother taking a wife, daughter constantly thinks of that, too. It certainly won't be forgotten." Mu Xi Yao hugged lady Yu's arm and spoke with ample confidence.
Gui momo defended her. She smiled and made fun of Mu Xi Yao, "Mistress, your big mansion is given by his Highness. It cannot be considered as yours."
Mu Xi Yao glared at Gui momo. She won't have it. She pouted her lips and retorted, "If it wasn't for your mistress's, mine, solicitous services, would his Highness bestow it?" It was simply impossible to describe how difficult it was to deal with Zhong Zheng Lin that man! She had made such a great sacrifice. Why couldn't it be counted as her credit?
"*Cough, cough, cough.*" Sir Mu was unable to listen to her words any further. His old face was filled with shame. Her words simply had no boundaries. In presence of his Highness, she dared to babble nonsense. He needed to properly discipline this daughter. Her speech implicated that this residence was gained in exchange of selling herself. Outrageous!
Mu Xi Yao aggrievedly mumbled to herself in a low voice after being glared by her own father. Since she turned up her nose at Mu House's old residence in Shengjing, she took care of it. Mu Xi Yao entrusted Tian Fu Shan to look for another place to accommodate her parents. Hence, they were right now in this big courtyard with vermilion gate. What Zhong Zheng Lin did was help her out out financially. It wasn't like she asked him. Why did this lecture from her own father fell on her?
Zhong Zheng Lin's lips curled up as he watched Mu Xi Yao repeatedly suffering a defeat. He's finally found a way to control her. This woman was very obedient in front of Mu Jing Zhen and lady Yu, poles apart from the unruly and fierce
side she displayed in front of him. As it turns out, this woman was accustomed to pretend an obedient daughter at home. Zhong Zheng Lin cast a glance at her well-behaved appearance with his phoenix eyes, mindful of this fact.
Hearing Mu Xi Yao speak disrespectfully about his Highness, lady Yu was so frightened she kept on tapping on her forehead. She pinched Mu Xi Yao's ear and admonished her. The admonishments went on and on, till Mu Xi Yao's expression turned depressed. She miserably looked at Zhong Zheng Lin, seeking for his help. After being with the sixth Highness for a long time, she has totally forgot about the matter of restraining oneself. Sir Mu and lady Yu were both rule-abiding and honest people. They couldn't stand her unusually exaggerating temper.
"Cefei is sincere and frank. These traits are hard to come by." Zhong Zheng Lin was amused by that little appearance of hers. He excused her, though it was done against his own conscience.
Not only Zhong Zheng Lin didn't believe in reasons he has provided, even Mu Xi Yao's face twitched upon hearing them. Could it be that this man was praising her on the surface but in reality disparaging and mocking her?
Concubine Wu was sitting at the seat. She anxiously looked outside the door, somewhat restless.
"Yiniang needn't worry. People have been already sent to pick Xi Ting up…."
"Sir, his fifth Highness brought third miss to the residence." The gatekeeper rushed to report.
Mu Jing Zhen was shocked. His fifth Highness came to visit?
"Your Highness, how about going out to welcome them together and then go to the pavilion to use meal?" Mu Xi Yao has been thinking of home food since beginning. She has even made plans of where the meal would be used for lady Yu.
Last night, Zhong Zheng Lin heard her talk about cook in Mu House on several occasions. He naturally knew that her mouth was watering for food. He rose up with a smile.
As soon as everyone reached the veranda, they saw the fifth Highness attired in brocade gown coming their way together with Mu Xi Ting.
"Sixth bother is also here." Zhong Zheng Ming lightly spoke out. From the corner of his eyes, he swept a glance at the big-bellied woman behind Zhong Zheng Lin.
"Fifth brother." Zhong Zheng Lin nodded.
"Paying respect to your fifth Highness." Mu Xi Yao quickly greeted together with her people.
"It's a family feast today. No need for ceremonies." Zhong Zheng Ming waved his hand. After Mu Xi Ting also performed the greeting, he and Zhong Zheng Lin took the lead.
Hearing the two of them talk about official matters, she and the group of womenfolk distanced themselves and followed few steps behind them.
"Is something troubling you?" Mu Xi Yao watched attentively Mu Xi Ting beside her whose face revealed a worried expression. Her brow raised. Was she bullied again?
Mu Xi Ting was originally recalling his Highness's expression just now. After being suddenly asked questions by Mu Xi Yao, she was startled into a tremble, "N-no."
Mu Xi Yao frowned upon seeing her struck with panic. How come the older she got, the more she declined? Although she wasn't bright before, at least she was competent. Nowadays, was she not even able to act steadily?
"If you face any difficulties, raise it to his fifth Highness." Apparently, Zhong Zheng Ming treated her well.
Mu Xi Ting's heart was filled with agony, "Yes. Little sister remembers."
Seeing her have something on the mind yet unwilling to say, Mu Xi Yao did not force her. Who did not have a secret? She drop off the matter.
Mu Xi Ting's heart was thrown into disarray as she looked at Mu Xi Yao's back. Last night, his Highness has specially rested at her chamber and inquired her about the matter of their father arriving to the capital. He has explained to her that this morning he will be accompaying her here. If it was not for another reason, she would have been probably so happy she won't be able to sleep.
That woman was right. She was merely a consolation for the unattainable.
On one side was her di sister who has taken care of her from a young age. On the other hand was her husband and lord whom she revered. Mu Xi Ting felt dismayed and agonized. If it was someone else, she wouldn't be feeling so miserable. If it were other women in the residence who have snatched the favor, she would be still able to be indifferent about it. However, why had it to be Mu Xi Yao?
A human's mind was sometimes strange. Mu Xi Ting just happened to fall into this vicious circle. Step by step, she was led by the other party and fell into their ploy.
"Use soup first." Seeing Mu Xi Yao stare unwaveringly at fish slices in ginger, he ordered people to serve her a stewed meat and bamboo shoot soup. When this woman was gluttonous, she knew not to restrain herself. She would lose all of her self-discipline befitting a well-bread young lady.
Mu Xi Yao pouted her lips. Since she was embarrassed to make a fuss in front of outsiders, she could only docilely use soup first.
Since Zhong Zheng Ming said it was a family feast, everyone sat together before one table. At this time, as they watched the sixth Highness skilfully send caterpillar fungus and braised duck to Mu Xi Yao's bowl, even sir Mu couldn't help but be shocked.
This….wasn't Mu Xi Yao being too spoiled? Seeing the two being very comfortable about it, not a bit embarrassed, lady Yu knew that the two were evidently used to this kind of interaction. Inwardly, she was very happy. As a mother, she can only feel relieved that his Highness pampered dearly her younger daughter.
After finishing the meal, Mu Xi Yao felt perfectly satisfied. The whole family was surrounded in a harmonious and happy atmosphere too.
After rinsing mouth and using tea, Mu Xi Yao began to get sleepy.
"We're not in a hurry to return. Go to the rear room for afternoon nap." Seeing her holding a teacup without many words, sitting there docilely while making him company, Zhong Zheng Lin knew that this woman was sleepy. When Mu Xi Yao was sober, she wasn't idle for even a second, except for when reading a book.
Having received Zhong Zheng Lin's words, Mu Xi Yao cheered up and excused herself. She took Mo Lan's hand. However, after taking only two steps, she suddenly exclaimed and took a fall to a side.
Mo Lan was so frightened she grabbed her arm. However, Mu Xi Yao's weight caused her to lost the balance.
Amid the frenzy, Mu Xi Yao's waist was supported by someone from the right side. From the corner of her eyes, she glimpsed a familiar thumb ring. Unable to be concerned with anything else, she grabbed the other party's front lapels and barely managed to steady herself.
Still not yet recovered from a recent shock, she suddenly discovered that her whole left shoulder was also firmly supported, making her incapable of any movement.
Huh? What was going on?
"Are you fine?"
When she heard the gentle male voice coming from the top of her head, Mu Xi Yao instantly froze. Her heart only contained these words: She threw herself at a wrong wolf!
Translation notes:
[1] House of Si means 9-11 AM
[2] Yiniang means concubine, it is also used to address the father's concubine
[3] A wind that passes one's ear is a Chinese idiom that means to not pay much attention to/ in one ear and out the other
[4] Wind sighing and crane calling is a Chinese idiom that means to panic at the slightest move
103
"Can you stand?" Zhong Zheng Ming looked at the woman who was draped over him while clutching his front lapels and asked softly.
Mu Xi Yao wanted to die from embarrassment. When she thought about the complexion of Zhong Zheng Lin behind her, her hair stood on end.
"Not letting go of him?" Zhong Zheng Lin grabbed her left shoulder. His tone was not good.
"The leg cramps…" unfortunately caused her an embarrassment at this time. Mu Xi Yao's face turned red. Her voice was as weak as a mosquito.
Zhong Zheng Lin stared at the back of her head that was hung down and nodded to Zhong Zheng Ming. Subsequently, he picked the person up into his arms. After excusing themselves, he carried Mu Xi Yao and headed to the side room in the east wing.
Sir Mu and lady Yu were so scared by Mu Xi Yao their hearts trembled with fear. Even now, the mere thought stroke terror in them.
"My lord, how come this child is this negligent? She's in her eighth-month pregnancy, after all. If anything was to happen to her, it would be fatal!" There was an old saying that said the seven will live and the eight will die1. The scare made lady Yu break into cold sweat. She looked at sir Mu and complained to him about how worrisome was his daughter.
Although Mu Jing Zheng was usually a bit strait-laced person, he doted greatly on this younger daughter of his. He was already frightened by the earlier scene. Yet, his spouse was secretly blaming him right now for indulging their girl and not disciplining her properly. Sir Mu helplessly shook his head. It was clearly a fault indulged by womenfolk.
Zhong Zheng Ming stood in the pavilion with hands crossed behind his back, watching the two depart. Afterward, he sat back to appease the two elders and speak good things on behalf of Mu Xi Yao.
"The sister-in-law had a leg cramp and was unable to stand. It can't be blamed on her." The sweet scent on the woman's body just now….Zhong Zheng Lin recalled with a slight nostalgy.
He called to mind the complete trust she displayed when she gripped tightly his front pieces. It should have been directed to the sixth, shouldn't it? Otherwise, she wouldn't be so embarrassed.
Mu Xi Ting couldn't hear anything. Her mind was filled only with the silhouette of his Highness getting up quickly and the never seen tenderness in his eyes when he shielded Mu Xi Yao. As it turns out, all the gentleness he usually showed was merely an appeasement. It couldn't compare to that brief moment of panic.
"Why don't you say you've burnt your hand?" Zhong Zheng Ming held her right hand and inspected the red and swollen flesh.
Did she hurt her hand? Mu Xi Ting looked at the soup bowl on the table that was knocked over. She remained silent and drooped her head.
The soup wasn't hers but his Highness's who was next to her. At that time, his Highness has dashed out without any care. She didn't hurt. No matter how her hand hurt, it couldn't compare to her heartache.
—
Mu Xi Yao was curled up in Zhong Zheng Lin' arms. She rubbed softly her cheeks against his chest, pouting coquettishly.
Darn. How long do you plan to be angry, boss? Give her a precise time so that she could take a rest.
When Zhong Zheng Lin recalled Zhong Zheng Ming's unconcealed concern, his eyes turned into a frost. Having an idea about his woman in front of him?
He turned to look at Mu Xi Yao's aggrieved expression. He was unable to contain his anger. She even thinks that she's been wronged.
At the critical moment, this woman has thrown herself into the arms of another man. He was obviously at the side, yet she has completely ignored him. And now, she had the nerve to play pitiful?
"Jiao Jiao, how do you want to get yourself out?"
Zhong Zheng Lin's phoenix eyes watched her intently. The dangerous glint inside them was clear and palpable.
When Mu Xi Yao called to mind the main culprit, she suddenly had confidence. She dismissed the wronged expression she had just now and pouted her lips. She pointed at his chest with her index finger while shifting blame to him.
"Your Highness, that lousy thumb ring of yours is too ordinary. How come everyone has it? Didn't qie just now glimpsed the thumb ring and has thus recognized the wrong person? How about you change it to a better one? This one is too shabby."
Zhong Zheng Lin was caught off guard by her sudden change. He then heard her reason with the thumb ring. Her tone was full of contempt.
The sixth Highness's anger had no way to be let out. He wished he could fix her.
"You don't recognize this thumb ring?"
"Huh?" How his anger showed no sign of decline? Mu Xi Yao was baffled. She grabbed his big hand to size it up carefully.
"Your Highness, why can't qie recognize it at all? Isn't it a thing you wear and wander around with every day? If qie could recognize it, would qie have thrown myself in the wrong direction?"
What a sloppy thing. Did it have to have an origin no matter what? Mu Xi Yao truly believed that the ring was something his sixth Highness has specifically used to put on airs. When men played a hard to read character, especially someone who was in high position and wielded power, didn't they always love to rub their thumb rings and fiddle with it to appear particularly cool?
This woman was truly…. Zhong Zheng Lin knew not how to lecture her. To say she was ignorant, she still remembered this thumb ring. To say she was attentive, she has never noticed that he was not the only one to own this thumb ring.
When he thought of it this way, the sixth Highness suddenly felt strange. Don't tell him he had to commend her for never paying attention to other men? Did he truly wrong her?
Zhong Zheng Lin leaned over. Seeing her staring at him and not willing to give in, he stroke her head.
"This ring is an imperial prince's official seal." Zhong Zheng Lin cleared her confusion.
Official seal? How was it used? Mu Xi Yao pulled up his fingers and moved them back and forth.
"It's merely a symbol now. In the past, the front of the thumb ring was slightly raised. It could be used as a seal."
Oh, she's learnt new knowledge. Mu Xi Yao nodded, but then she became puzzled, "All the princes own one?" How come she didn't notice it before?
"Yes. Wearing a thumb ring is a rule in the imperial clan. It doesn't matter whether it's on the left or right hand."
"That's it. Such an inaccurate matter. Qie didn't take note of it." Mu Xi Yao was in the right. Since it was uncertain on which hand was the thumb ring worn, she was even more innocent in this.
"Are you blaming bendian for informing you too late?" Zhong Zheng Lin put the person on the bed. He then folded his arms and leaned over to watch her as he stood at the edge of the bed.
Aojiao! Mu Xi Yao pouted. When boss was being unreasonable, he liked to exert his dominance on her.
"Your Highness." Mu Xi Yao softly called the person. She reached out her hands and requested a hug. She wanted a human pillow, a natural cooling medium….
—
Sir Mu has been sitting with the fifth Highness for a long time. Seeing no trace of the person who has said he will be back soon, they immediately knew he won't return.
"Since sixth brother has other important matters, bendian will go first. Sir Mu needn't see bendian off. If bendian gets free, bendian will accompany shufei to pay more visits."
Mu Xi Ting reluctantly parted with concubine Wu. She took Zhong Zheng Ming's hand and set foot on to the carriage.
The carriage slowly advanced forward. As Mu Xi Ting watched attentively the fifth Highness's gentle side profile, she only felt that the whole carriage has brightened up with him. How great would it be if it was always this peaceful and harmonious?
"Why are you looking at bendian with such expression?"
Being caught red-handed, Mu Xi Ting's face blushed. She mumbled, "Your Highness is good-looking. Qie was besotted."
Zhong Zheng Ming lied down on a cool couch. He revealed a gentle smile, "You're indeed sisters. Your elder sister has also complimented bendian in such a way." However, Mu Xi Yao was using those words to annoy him. When he recalled how she stroke first to gain the initiative, Zhong Zheng Ming laughed and shook his head. When has he ever blamed her for that?
Mu Xi Ting's heart instantly turned cold, "Your Highness was acquainted with sister before?"
According to that woman's words, his Highness has been interested in Mu Xi Yao since a long time ago.
Zhong Zheng Ming seemed to be recalling. Being acquainted with? He was afraid that she was never under such impression.
"Hardly. The first time bendian met you sisters was outside of Diao Xiang House, just happening to encounter the startled horse accident. Afterward, she paid bendian a visit to express her thanks."
Mu Xi Ting's heart gripped tightly. He's been thinking about her since such a long time ago? At the time, they were still just xiunus.
Xiunu? Mu Xi Ting suddenly called to mind how the fifth princess consort was warm to her at the beginning, calling her intimately sister Mu. Later on, for some unknown reasons, her attitude suddenly changed, becoming unusually cold. There was also the occasional gossip among princess consorts that involved talks about his Highness's attentiveness to her and him deliberately taking her as his shufei.
Before selection, his Highness has never seen her. Why did he treat her particularly generously? Mu Xi Ting recalled that "pay a visit to express thanks" and her face turned deathly pale. What if….what if they got the wrong person?
The long-standing puzzlement suddenly found its answer. Mu Xi Ting was panic-struck. Was she actually that contemptible that even the role of substitute had to be snatched from someone else?
Translation notes:
[1] Seven will survive and the eight will die is a Chinese old saying that believed that since 7-month-old fetus was still small, it was easy to give birth to. What's more, the babies born at the time were more likely to survive. On the contrary, the 8-month-old fetus was big and since there was no caesarean section in ancient time, if a mother run into a situation where baby's position in the womb was not correct, she will likely face a difficult birth and the baby also probably won't survive
104
At the shore of koi pond, Mu Xi Yao leaned against the railing and sprinkled food into water.
"Mistress, madam sent a letter. The proper arrangements have been made about household servants you asked for. Does mistress wish to receive them and teach them etiquette?"
"It's reasonable. Have Zhao momo make arrangements." The rules in her courtyard were lax. As long as servants were well-behaved and dutiful, they would, certainly, be assigned with a good errand. Mu Xi Yao has always been generous to servants.
"Tell Ruo Lan to sent the freshly made kidney bean roll from the little kitchen to his Highness. In passing, let her take along a pot of tea." Due to her, boss has formed a habit of using an afternoon tea. Yesterday, she had overslept. Hence, today he had sent Wei Zhen to prompt her.
Cheng Qing watched her teasing koi fish at the side. He was so excited he kept moving around with all his might in the wet nurse's arms.
"Fish, foof! Fish, foof!" The bun flung his little chubby hands. Prying open her palm, he fiddled with the bait and threw them down like she did.
Mu Xi Yao rolled her eyes. Fish food? When can this boy pronounce words clearly so that she could hold her head high in front of his sixth Highness?
"Mistress," Ruo Lan anxiously rushed over, carrying back an untouched food box in her hand.
Mu Xi Yao had the wet nurse take Cheng Qing to the garden to play with him; to keep a bit of distance from water pavilion. The little brat was restless. He was spoilt rotten by his dad. As a result, he was very naughty. If by any chance he struggled himself from the wet nurse's arms and fell to the pond….just a thought of it made Mu Xi Yao horrified.
"How come you've returned?" Did it not suit his taste?
In a huff, Ruo Lan reported to Mu Xi Yao, "On the way, this servant has bumped into Su cefei and the party who also carried a food box in their hands. Su cefei said that she will attend to his Highness's meal today. She had dismissed this servant."
Ever since she followed mistress, Ruo Lan has never been scolded by others. Today, the servant girl behind cefei was clearly implying that she wished to use this opportunity to curry favor with his Highness and climb onto his Highness's bed. Ruo Lan was so angered she left in indignation.
After seeing the rim of her eyes redden, how could Mu Xi Yao not know that she has suffered grievance? Su Lin Rou was unlikely to go so far as to lower herself and make things difficult for a sorbent girl. In that case, she must have let her servant girl speak on her behalf.
Did her teaching possibly turn their personality into that of too well-behaved, so that even after being bullied they dared not to speak about it?
Mu Xi Yao's eyes turned. Going to complain to boss required a skill. This time, she shall pick a graceful and restrained trick. Bullying her maidservants? Mu Xi Yao smiled till her eyes turned into crescent. Apparently, Su Lin Rou's brain was not good. Didn't she see that He Lian Min Min that woman was very quiet these two days?
—
"Your Highness, Su cefei arrived in the front yard. She came to send you refreshments." Wei Zhen brought a three layers food box, waiting for the sixth Highness's instructions.
Zhong Zheng Lin was at the moment discussing official matters with Di Wu Yi Zhao and Gong Shu Yang. He was already displeased for being interrupted. More so, due to a woman from the inner yard. Instantly, his expression darkened.
"Tell her to leave." He turned his head to check the hourglass. Did Mu Xi Yao that woman oversleep again? "Go to Danruo Courtyard to take a look."
Su Lin Rou took the food box that has been returned. Her face flushed. The previous times when she ordered a servant girl to send it over, it wasn't accepted even once. Today, she has come in person. Yet, not only was she kept out of the door and not allowed in, his Highness wasn't even willing to use her pastries. Was his Highness's mind being so enchanted by that vixen that he would even disregard their past affections? During those two days inside the carriage, the two of them were clearly surrounded by a harmonious atmosphere. However, everything changed once they came back. Su Lin Rou was so angry she fiercely stamped her feet. She flung her handkerchief and left.
As soon as Wei Zhen passed the flower-hung gate, he saw Chun Lan, a maidservant of second rank in Danruo Courtyard, pace back and forth, being hesitant about something. Just as he was going to inquire her, that servant girl looked at him pitifully and replied words that deserved a beating.
"Sir Wei, how about not sending pastries today?" Mistress wanted to deliver them in such a condition. She truly had no guts to go to the front yard.
Seeing that things have been settled, Di Wu Yi Zhao cast off his solemn appearance from before. He rocked the feather fan and stroked lightly his beard.
"Your Highness, how come this lowly official feels that cefei's green tea from Mt. Dongting is getting later and later to arrive?"
Zhong Zheng Lin raised his brow. Was he teasing him for "lacking guidance over Mu Xi Yao as her husband1" and unable to even have a command for a pot of tea?
Wei Zhen stepped into the study again while carrying a food box with a stiff face. He arranged neatly three plates of light refreshments and a pot of green tea. Sir Wei stood by side with a rigid face. He has made up his mind to be extremely attentive. He mustn't incur his Highness's anger.
Di Wu Yi Zhao blinked. What was this plateful of shapeless things that were in bits and pieces?
Zhong Zheng Lin narrowed his phoenix eyes. Why was she fussing again, not willing to attend to them?
Wei Zhen was intimidated by his Highness's cold eyes. He hung down his eyes and replied, "The servant girl sent by mistress Yao was intercepted by Su cefei."
As soon as his words were spoken out, the sixth Highness's face immediately darkened. Could the pastries break into pieces after just an obstruction? He needn't think about it. Mu Xi Yao's little temper must have flared up and she took this opportunity to go into a huff. Just as he intended to go back to catch the person and fix her, he saw the manservant outside come in and report.
"Your Highness, Mu cefei sent pastries."
Not only Zhong Zheng Lin, but Di Wu Yi Zhao was also perplexed. This thing today was odd. Were cefei's pastries sent in two batches?
Once four delicate refreshments were served, Zhong Zheng Lin's expression finally eased. Just as he was going to grasp the pot, he saw a paper note flattened out underneath the food box.
As soon as he unfolded it, a handwriting that was distinctive to Mu Xi Yao has entered his eyes, "May qie enter, little by little, into one's heart2."
Zhong Zheng Lin's fingertips traced over the woman's handwriting. His eyes gradually softened. This woman…..
He then took a look at those crushed pastries. How could he not know she came to complain about her grievances? She was telling him that her delicate little heart was broken into pieces.
The corners of the sixth Highness's lips curled up. He couldn't help but let out a stifled laugh. The little woman's trick was too lovable.
Di Wu Yi Zhao was near Zhong Zheng Lin. He happened to glimpse those words. He took the pot to fill himself a tea. Subsequently, he raised his head to drain the cup in one gulp while smiling. Cefei was a clever person. How interesting.
—
He Lian Min Min listened to Tian Fu Shan's message and nodded in compliance. Why did Su Lin Rou go and provoke Mu'shi out of blue?
Not long afterward, the whole prince's residence knew that He Lian principal consort has confined Su cefei. She was punished to copy 《Book of Precepts》 for hundred times. Before leaving the palace, she wasn't allowed to leave half a step from Fanghua Courtyard without a permission.
—
Mu Xi Yao hugged Zhong Zheng Lin's neck. She smiled brightly. Boss, indeed, knew how to play the game. Such a romantic hint, yet he could understood it fully at one glance.
"Is Jiao Jiao satisfied?" Zhong Zheng Lin pecked her lips. His big palm buckled her waist and slowly caressed it.
"Qie's heart aches. Your Highness, warm it up for qie." Demoness Mu uttered coyly. She caught the big hand on her waist and, little by little, moved it upward. Her beautiful eyes were brimming with spring water, using them to spellbind Zhong Zheng Lin.
Zhao momo kept a night watch along with Ruo Lan, only until hour of Zi3 did she heard his Highness summon them. She sighed ruefully. The protocols of the inner yard have been almost completely wrecked by mistress Yao. She was heavily pregnant, yet she was still able to get his Highness stay. This skill of mistress wasn't something ordinary people could learn. Not to mention the imperial family, even in the courtyard of the nobles, no one has heard of such a capable concubine.
The sixth Highness has been pleasantly served by a beauty. It was time when he was the most easygoing.
"Your Highness, will you be able to make it in time for Cheng Qing's Draw Lots Ceremony4 after leaving for province Shu?" If the birth father was absent during the ceremony, little bun would be too pitiful. These members of the imperial clan and nobles were very snobbish. If Zhong Zheng Lin did not attend Draw Lots Ceremony, they won't investigate for reasons behind. They would merely say that Cheng Qing was not acknowledged by the sixth Highness. Mu Xi Yao naturally couldn't tolerate other people gossip about her son.
Zhong Zheng Lin has reckoned the schedule from a long time ago. He flicked her forehead, "Would bendian be so muddleheaded as to forget about bendian's son?" Not to mention that Cheng Qing was his firstborn son. Just the fact that he was born out of Mu Xi Yao commanded him to treat this matter with seriousness.
The little woman has suffered grievances due to her family background. She did not marry into the prince's residence as its rightful mistress. He naturally had to make it up for her in all the other aspects. How could his, Zhong Zheng Lin's beloved woman, not enjoy reverence?
—-
"My lord, there's an urgent summon from Shengjing."
"The dog emperor's son actually dares to come to Shu? He'll be walking right into the trap."
"The one coming is the sixth imperial son. This person is unfathomable. We've ambushed him several times, yet failed when on the verge of success every time."
"Benzun5 naturally remembers that brat. Benzun had lost three waves of people to him. This bloody debt will be difficult to repay."
"Since the person is coming to Shu, then the previous plan…."
"Naturally continues. Does he not dote on that Mu'shi? Mobilize secret pawns and set about her first."
Translation notes:
[1] Lacking guidance over one's wife – in feudal China, people followed three cardinal guides: ruler guides subject, father guides son and husband guides wife
[2] "May qie enter, little by little, into one's heart" – those crumbled pastries are meant to be little by little in this context. Mu Xi Yao used them as a metaphor in her "love letter"
[3] Hour of Zi means 11 PM – 1 AM
[4] Draw lots ceremony – a ceremony that is celebrated when a baby is one year old where the parents put various objects before the child. The child's choice is used to forecast its future (more info click here)
[5] Benzun is a first-person pronoun that means this respected one
105
Yuancheng Emperor looked at woman with exquisite makeup at his feet and smashed the pile of reports from integration to her face.
Trembling, consort De picked up the record that contained a handprint. After reading only two lines, she immediately lost all of her power and slumped on the ground. Supported with one hand at the side of her leg, the woman's gaze was empty. She did not weep nor refute those words.
She has already prepared for this, didn't she? At least the terror she was consumed by these days has finally come to an end. She no longer had to endure the torment of living in constant fea. She's spent thirty years in the deep quarters of the palace. What awaited her, in the end, was, merely, a white silk. She watched the gemstones inlaid flower ring on her hand. Her mind was hollow, like a dead water.
"Do you have anything to say?" Yuancheng Emperor took a nearby seat. As he watched the woman's decadent appearance, he sighed with sorrow. This woman has been with him since his prince's days. And now, she occupied one of four consorts' position. What was there for her to be discontented about to engage in such a lawless act?
Yuancheng Emperor's question made consort De slowly come back to herself. She raised her head to look at the man she has served for her whole life. Tears slowly slid down from the corners of her eyes.
"Your Majesty, chengqie has accompanied you for nearly thirty years. Chengqie has long lost the heart to strive for favor. During youth, chengqie was not favored by your Majesty, let alone now that chengqie's prime of youth is gone."
The woman sobbed softly, as if in trance,"Since a few years ago, your Majesty rarely visited chengqie's palace. Even if there were occasional moments, it was all once in several months. Does your Majesty know that kind of loneliness that would seep into one's bones in the evenings as one's guarding an empty palace quarters?"
Consort De's makeup smudged. She smiled bitterly with tears in her eyes, "How can your Majesty know? There are countless beauties in the palace. Each year, new members join the harem. Those who have to suffer from loneliness and solitude are seniors in the palace; especially those who have no children to rely on!"
Seeing her eyes redden and abruptly mention the word children, Yuancheng Emperor's hands clenched into a tight fist.
"Does your Majesty remember chengqie's Qing'er? The child who would pull at your hand and call you imperial father? The third prince whom you have praised for being bright and witty?" Consort De's voice became hoarse, her breathing also quickened.
"If it was not for consort Shu, that wench, calling for those two administrative assistants to treat that good-for-nothing, how would have chengqie's Qing'er missed his best time for treatment and failed to be saved?" The woman wailed out and sobbed, "Your Majesty, why do you favor her son and ignore chengqie's Qing'er?"
"You…you are twisting words and forcing logic!" Yuancheng Emperor's chest moved up and down. When he recalled the son who has died young, he was overcome with heartache and grief, "In Qing'er's case, his illness broke out suddenly. Who could have foreseen that it would come in such a violent way, that his treatment couldn't be delayed for even a moment? Moreover, at the time Yun'er suffered high fever and was in extreme danger, his life hung on a thread. Imperial physicians could not leave him by no means!"
Consort De turned deaf ear to his words. She continued to shout, "Your Majesty! Consort Shu, that wench, has not only killed Qing'er. While chengqie was grieving deeply for the lost and ill, she had slipped a drug in chengqie's medicine, making chengqie unable to conceive children!"
"It was imperial concubine Fu who committed the crime. You've seen the trial process yourself. How can you blame someone else?" Seeing her already crazed, not listening to what people said to her, he lifted his foot and intended to leave.
"Your Majesty! Imperial concubine Fu is the person from her palace. She'd been goaded by her! Since Qing'er passed away, there was not a day chengqie could sleep peacefully. In these twenty years, chengqie couldn't win her. Chengqie won't be able to die in peace!"
"You're simply beyond redemption!"
"Gu Chang De, drag her down."
"Your Majesty! Chengqie hates her, hates all of her sons. Chengqie wants to see that wench die like a dog!"
Yuancheng Emperor's ears rang with her crazy screaming. His face turned livid. It turned out that this woman was already rotten inside. He actually didn't notice it on the usual days. When he called to mind there was still a woman he had to take care of, Yuancheng Emperor's brows furrowed tightly. The inner palace has never been a clean place. He knew it since a child. Yet, when it came to disposing these women that had accompanied him for decades, it was not that he didn't feel a heartache.
—
Inside Yuye palace, Yuancheng Emperor was in a towering rage.
"Things have reached this stage, yet you still dare to make excuses!"
"Your Majesty, chengqie is wronged! Consort De hasn't accused chengqie. How can you easily trust the words of a palace maid? Someone must be certainly scheming against chengqie, plotting for the position of noble consort!"
Watching the noble consort's face filled with determination, kneeling on the ground while crying out a grievance, Yuancheng Emperor could not contain his anger.
Till now, this woman knew not of repent. She believed that the old fool Duke of An could still protect her.
"Do you think that since Mobei needs soldiers, zhen would have hands tied and won't be able to move your duke house?! Do you take zhen's Department of Inspection for a bunch of good-for-nothings?!"
"Your Majesty!" Gu Chang De rushed in to report anxiously, "Consort De's maid hung herself in the prison."
Yuancheng Emperor's expression turned fierce. His gaze was extraordinary cold. Committing a crime against the wind1, Duke of An, this treacherous official. seems to be in opinion he's lived for too long!
Glimpsing the woman on the ground breathing out in relief, Yuancheng Emperor's anger soared even higher.
"Consort De did not confess?"
"Your Majesty, her Ladyship consort De has already turned mad. She cannot recognize people anymore." Recalling consort De's disheveled appearance and her biting people as soon as she saw them, Gu Chang De shook his head helplessly.
"Well. They've turned mad well, died well! Noble consort, you're indeed quite capable!" Yuancheng Emperor slapped the table and stood up, staying no more, "In that case, watch properly over this Yuyue Palace. Zhen will fulfill your wish!"
Gu Chang De trotted after Yuancheng Emperor to catch up with him. He was so scared he hung low his head. This was the first time Yuancheng Emperor has broken into such a rage in these past few years. The slap just now in the noble consort's palace almost made the entire table jump up.
"Gu Chang De, prepare an imperial decree."
On the next day, once Yuancheng Emperor's two imperial decrees came out, the whole Shengjing was in uproar.
The dust around the case of consort Liu falling into unconsciousness has been settled2. Cefei of the sixth Highness redressed herself and was cleared of charges. However, the punishment for this case was not condoning.
Consort De was demoted to commoner and sent to Cold Palace. The third prince, Zhong Zheng Qing who was born from her and died prematurely was written under the imperial noble consort's name in the genealogical record.
Duke of An's title changed from being a hereditary title to a title that was demoted after three generations. As for noble consort, news came from the palace that after this blow, she fell gravely ill and is recuperating in Yuye Palace.
The noble and influential clans could act unperturbed about elevating and demoting imperial concubines, However, their hearts trembled in fear upon hearing the duchy of An being lowered in ranks.
An duchy was granted by the late Emperor and was hereditary. As soon as Yuancheng Emperor's imperial edict came out, his act undeniably signified a disrespect to the late Emperor. Furthermore, he has cut off the future prospects of House of Duke An in the harshest possible manner. Imperial censors successively submitted dissuasive memorials, yet they were all sent back by Yuancheng Emperor. It was truly rare for him to show such an unyielding attitude.
In the elderly age of seventy, Duke of An kowtowed and thanked for the sovereign's grace. Following after, he abruptly fainted and remained unconscious.
The house of duke, apart from the firstborn son who could be still regarded as somewhat promising, lacked a competent successor. Even though they possessed the An duchy, they were already a story of past. Right now, Yuancheng Emperor removed their hereditary title. On the outside, it looked like "a title that was demoted after three generations". In fact, their road ahead was cut off.
—
When Zhong Zheng Lin received the news, he gave an indifferent nod. Mu Xi Yao's previous commotion seemed to be of avail. That woman must be certainly proud of herself at the moment. However, it was not a bad thing. At least, Zhong Zheng Chun won't dare to act rashly in the short term. After this incident, Mu Xi Yao's childbirth will become more smooth and he could also dismiss the departure concerns that would trouble him.
Just as Zhong Zheng Lin expected, Mu Xi Yao was laughing cheerfully in Danruo Courtyard.
She's waited for a few days. The outcome she wished to see finally happened. Although she couldn't pull up Duke of An and his cohorts by the roots, inflicting them serious injuries was already not an easy task. Yuancheng Emperor's decision this time carried attributes of a wise monarch.
Without the support of Duke of An, the noble consort posed no threat. Moreover, she was confined by Yuancheng Emperor in Yuye Palace. She wasn't allowed out without an imperial order.
Mu Xi Yao was elated. Once she was in a cheerful mood, she took Cheng Qing to take a stroll in the garden.
Zhao momo and Mo Lan followed behind them. When they saw their mistress's flamboyant appearance, they've finally realized that going to a lot of trouble to worry about her at the time was not necessary. They were simply asking for needless anxiety. No wonder that when everyone in the courtyard was drowned in the pessimistic atmosphere, mistress, on the other hand, bellowed that once she caught them she will skin them and gouge their flesh. As it turns out, she held the pearl of wisdom3.
—
He Lian Min Min dazedly looked at a thick folding notebook containing a list of operas that has been delivered to her. She only felt this was too absurd.
Mu Xi Yao that woman has not only cleared herself from charges, she went as far as to crush consort De and bring Duke of An's House down? This was something she didn't even dare to think about. The late Emperor's grace. How come it was crushed so easily?
The one who shared the same thoughts as her was also Wan Jing Wen, Wan shufei.
Wan Jing Wen simply couldn't believe her ears. At the time, when she heard the news that Yuancheng Emperor would investigate thoroughly into this case, she thought that to be able to ferret out someone in the consort position was already a pretty good feat. Yet, what waited for her right now was a shocking turn of events. The whole Shengjing shook because of it.
In the previous life, the house of Duke of An was completely abolished during the middle reign of Jianan Emperor. However, before Zhong Zheng Lin ascended the throne, Yuancheng Emperor had already fixed them up ruthlessly. This made Wan Jing Wen wonder whether she was too optimistic. Perhaps, rebirth wasn't as in the bag as she expected?
If Mu Xi Yao knew that someone mocked past experience like herself, she would certainly agree with all her might. Right now, the memories in her mind could only provide her with sporadic advice. The more outlooks required her own plotting. Fortunately, she had found a shortcut which has saved her a lot of work….shamelessly going to curry favor with the boss. It was absolutely the one and only way to gain the advantage and shirk work.
—
"Wei Rui, what's your opinion on this matter?"
"Father, his Majesty is already having thoughts of disposing noble clans. After the war in Mobei, I'm afraid, huge changes will take place." Even though He Lian Wei Rui attired warmly in the midsummer, she still could not bear the chill.
"As for that lady Mu. She's, indeed, awesome." The young woman's face was like a bright moon. She uttered a soft praise, "Only on this matter alone, Wei Rui falls short to her."
"Oh? If it was Wei Rui, would be Wei Rui able to defend herself?"
"Yes. However, Wei Rui won't be able to destabilize the noble consort's and house of duke's foundation."
He Lian Zhang's interest was piqued. The way lady Mu's shook herself off the charges was absolutely brilliant. How would Wei Rui accomplish such a feat?
"Father, There's not enough time for a dead person to dispute." He Lian Wei Rui chuckled. She would kill that Gan Fu Wei and directly frame his death on herself. Once she had everyone's attention diverted on the murder case, she would throw a bat and catch "the real culprit". Afterward, she would collude with the Director of the Directorate of Astrology and Calendar so that he would reverse verdict for her. This way, she would become the one who has been caught in another person's trap, being innocent in the whole case.
Since she wouldn't be able to directly erase questions about the birth chart, she would use the murder case to reverse the verdict for herself first and then induce everyone into believing that the story around the birth chart was also a scheme devised by someone else to damage her reputation. In this world, there were always people who fancied themselves to be smart. Especially when it concerned such an unusual case. There would be certainly many people who would be eager to solve this mystery, wishing to use this opportunity to become famous. At the time, would she lack helpers?
He Lian Zhang shook his head in dismissal when he heard of her scheme, "Too sinister, lacking righteousness."
"Thus, Wei Rui said, Wei Rui falls short to lady Mu in this matter. Wei Rui can merely defend myself."
"Bear in mind to act just and honorable from now on. Don't walk on the wrong path."
He Lian Wei Rui complied. Once He Lian Zhang left, her expression sunk.
Just and honorable? Father, if one sought only integrity, she would have long lost her life!
—-
Mu Xi Ting silently watched the rain falling outside. The sound of rain drips could not wash away the gloom inside her heart.
His Highness has been resting here already for several days. How could she not know of the reason? It was all due to that "Mu'shi". Before, his Highness would always call her by her maiden name. Nowadays, he won't call her by it anymore.
How did she enter his heart that he's unable to let go of her to this extent?
Mu Xi Ting has never seen the scene of Mu Xi Yao confronting the Emperor's prestige. Hence, she was naturally incapable to envisage how deep an impact it left on Zhong Zheng Ming and his admiration for Mu Xi Yao. That kind of courage, spirit, erudition and graceful bearing that women rarely possessed made Zhong Zheng Ming fall in love with her and have her engraved deeply in his memory.
Mu Xi Ting clasped her hands tightly, wavering. That woman has said that as long as she acted according to her instructions, she will be able to make his Highness give up. Did she mean it?
—-
Inside Danruo Courtyard, Zhong Zheng Lin finished reading 《Children's literacy》" to the child inside Mu Xi Yao's womb. He was hugging her and being intimate with her.
"In two days, great master will return to Shengjing. Do you wish to visit An Guo Temple?"
"Qie can go?" Mu Xi Yao was overjoyed. Last time, Zhong Zheng Lin has warned that she wasn't allowed to leave the palace. How come he suddenly changed his mind?
There seems to be a saying called — "guilty conscience"?
"Your Highness, have you bed a woman again?" Last time, it was Tang Hui Ru. Who was it this time?
Translation notes:
[1] Committing the crime against the wind is a Chinese idiom that means to commit a crime during the height of a crackdown on crime
[2] The dust has settled is a Chinese idiom that means to get sorted out; to be finalised
[3] Hold the pearl of wisdom is a Chinese idiom that means to be endowed with extraordinary intelligence/ to cope with all matters with schemes and strategies