121
"Mo Lan, give《Collection of Culture Promotion》to sir."
The vice censor looked at five or six publications in his hand and was puzzled. This was the actual proof?
《Collection of Culture Promotion》was a premium analects that was bound into a volume and printed by Hongwen poetry society every month. The work not only included poems, operas, folk stories, local conditions and popular customs from different regions, but also various academic essays.
As the most prestigious academic textbook among the people of Great Wei, 《Collection of Culture Promotion》was revered by the literary and Confucian scholars. On each month, when the textbook was being sold, it was always gone in an instant.
"Does sir know what is special about the first three essays in《Collection of Culture Promotion》?" Mu Xi Yao opened up the latest publication and turned the first few sheets that were made of high-quality papers.
"Naturally. The first three essays of each volume are the finest works of that month selected by the poetry society. For the commandment, they are printed using paper made from chaste tree."
"That's it. Sir, please look over the second chapter, the work that belongs to a scholar with the name "Mu Yu", 《Diary of one hundred and thirty-two species of orchid》."
The vice censor didn't need to browse to the said chapter. Mu Yu was a famous scholar who has suddenly appeared in 《Collection of Culture Promotion》last year. As long as it was his essay, the majority of them have appeared on the paper made from the chaste tree and were read by everyone. His exquisite literary accomplishments and novelty standpoint have once stirred a fierce debate among the civil officials and literary scholars of Great Wei. Later, he has gained acknowledgment from people.
"Mo Lan, hand over the seal to sir for inspection."
"For the purpose of concision, the words Mu Yu were taken from the homonyms of surnames of qie's parents." When Mu Xi Yao signed a name for her essays back then, she felt deep inside she should differentiate herself from the currently prevalent pseudonyms and nicknames that were wild and pretended a refinement. The momentary fun of hers has thus given birth to "Mu Yu" who had his own unique style of signature among the academicians that have sent works to 《Collection of Culture Promotion》.
The eyes of sir Mu who was sitting next to them widened.
This little girl was actually Mu Yu? How could it not shock him? Before getting married, Mu Xi Yao hasn't displayed whatsoever talent in poetry and literature. How could have she made such progress that he couldn't even recognize her?
The most important thing was that pseudonym. How could she take such an indecent name? Using parent's surnames for homonyms was simply wilful!
"How can you treat a matter of creating a pseudonym like a child's play?" Mu Jing Zhen restrained that little secret pride in his heart and began to lecture his daughter. He was particularly strict with Mu Xi Yao and made her repeatedly apologize for her actions.
As the two sir censors watched Mu cefei who was admonished until she bowed her head in obedience, they still couldn't believe that the obedient woman in front of them was that famous scholar who was mentioned by the director of poetry society several times and who was praised highly by him for being a rising star of a new school.
The fact that Mu Yu was a woman, if cefei didn't reveal her identity, probably no one in the whole Great Wei would dare to have such a guess.
They took another serious look at the private seal in their hands. This matter didn't allow any more doubts. The Great Wei controlled tightly the seals. Anyone who dared to falsify the seal without permission, if it were those with official duties, they would be stripped of their titles. If they were commoners, they would be sent to a lifetime exile.
"Unbeknownst, cefei's erudition was this exceptional. This subject would like to express deep admiration." The Great Wei always revered and honored those with outstanding literary talent.
"Those are too strong words, sir. Qie has written those essays in passing. For the most part, qie cannot compare to academicians with solid foundations. It's just that qie holds slightly different standpoint which can be regarded as qie taking shortcuts." Mu Xi Yao was well aware of her capabilities. Being able to get into the top three ranks several times out of countless literary and Confucian scholars in Great Wei was merely because her horizon was wider than that of an ordinary person, her standpoint was novel and penetrated deeply into the topic and her language was sharp.
"On each month when a new volume of 《Collection of Culture Promotion》is being sold, the poetry society will seek new drafts from the top three authors again and send them a gold-dusted letter. Qie's new draft has been already submitted to the steward of the poetry society and the seal has been imprinted on the letter as well. The time of submission happened to be on the third day of the month, at the hour of chen1. If it was as sir has said and qie was abducted by the rebels and imprisoned by them for two days, how could be the matter with the gold letter accomplished?"
Contributing works to 《Collection of Culture Promotion》 was not Mu Xi Yao's sudden whim. She actually had her motives. Yet, she didn't expect that it would accidentally become her helping hand in this matter. It was indeed a nice surprise.
The vice censor already believed the majority of what Mu Xi Yao has said. He immediately dispatched people to the publishing house to investigate the matter. Before he could take his leave, the imperial physician arrived and confirmed Mu Xi Yao's previous statements.
Everyone had their own opinions on the actual facts now.
The whistleblower's heart harbored ulterior motives. Yet, the person didn't take into consideration cefei's astonishing actions that were hard to predict. This, perhaps, was exactly what ordinary people said: the wise man knows he knows nothing, the good-hearted people would naturally receive protection.
When Mu Xi Yao saw the two's expression, she knew that she has wriggled out. However, it didn't mean that since she was able to get away, everyone would be able to. For instance, the woman who was the contact in the residence. After this incident passes and Zhong Zheng Lin takes her back to the residence, the first thing to fix was this scourge who had to be eliminated no matter what.
Two days later when Yuancheng Emperor read the memorials submitted by the Censorate, a surprise flickered through his eyes as they spotted a certain paragraph. Afterward, he lifted a brush and wrote a comment in red, ordering people beneath to do as it was written.
The rumors in the capital were completely cleared in just two days. The rumor-monger did not dare to reveal himself in front of people again. As for the whistleblower buried deeply in the fifth prince's residence, the main culprit Yin Ji, her brows were currently furrowed tightly. She was puzzled over which segment in their plan was overlooked by her and enabled Mu'shi to escape yet again.
People have learned from the official denouncement issued by the local authorities only that the most important witness of the whole incident was, unexpectedly, the rising star of the literary circle who has risen to fame through 《Collection of Culture Promotion》, Mu Yu. As for why did Mu Yu involve himself in this affair and what was his identity, no one knew.
Ever since Yuancheng Emperor read the memorial, he had high regard for Mu Xi Yao for she has suggested on her own accord to conceal her identity as Mu Yu.
This cefei who was personally appointed by him was extraordinarily clever. She knew very well when to advance and when to retreat. Not only did she took herself into account, but she was also thoughtful about the sixth.
Except for the principal consort title, Mu'shi actually had a greater sense of responsibility than He Lian'shi.
The reason why Mu Xi Yao didn't want to prematurely expose her identity was that she kept on being involved in major events. It was already inappropriate. If she continued to make a good name in front of Yuancheng Emperor, she feared that it will awaken the other party's distrust. This won't be good at all.
Nowadays, she didn't have to force herself too much. The hidden trump card needed to be grasped in one's hand. The most important thing was to take advantage of the situation when it was appropriate. Besides, Zhong Zheng Lin has already laid his foundation in the literary circle. If a rumor spread about her being a woman of talents, the whole prince's residence would shine too much.
"After another three days, bendian will have to go to Shu Zhong to run some affairs. When does Jiao Jiao wish to return the residence?" Zhong Zheng Lin put aside the bowl and chopsticks and rinsed his mouth while being attended to by others. He then asked Mu Xi Yao about her opinion.
Honestly speaking, Mu Xi Yao truly didn't want to move. Unfortunately, this incident was already over. Even if it was for nursing her fetus, she couldn't stay in the Mu residence for too long. What's more, Zhong Zheng Lin will leave Shengjing. It was not justified for a womenfolk to stay outside by herself.
"In that case, let's go back tomorrow. Your Highness, allow qie to pack up things." The little bun's items could be used to fill up a whole carriage. Without half a day's time, they won't be able to depart.
When lady Yu heard that Mu Xi Yao was in hurry to return to the prince's residence and was already packing up, she took people along with her to help her as well as give Mu Xi Yao words of admonishments.
This child was good-natured and very well-behaved. Her only shortcomings were that she had no regard for precedence in front of his Highness and has gradually lost her caution because of his Highness's fondness.
Mu Xi Yao hugged lady Yu and was being affectionate with her. How could she not know that she had to treat Zhong Zheng Lin with an all-out effort and that slacking off was not tolerated? Mu Xi Yao wound her arm around lady Yu's and leaned against her for a long time. No matter how Zhong Zheng Lin doted on her, it couldn't compare to the love of her family that never demanded anything for return. The price of his love and pamper was extremely expensive. If she did not grasp it well and wasn't careful, it would be fatal.
He Lian Min Min was imprisoned in the inner yard by the sixth Highness for the past few days. The rest of the women were also put into house arrest. She was quite unused that there was no one to pay her respect and visit her to engage in little talks.
"Mistress, master has called you back a few days ago. What do we do?" Feng momo was a bit worried. Every time master called on someone to speak with him, it was to reprimand the person. Mistress's life was not good nowadays. If she was even reprimanded by her family, how was she going to calm down and live her life?
"What else can be done? Father certainly will want to lecture me. Can I, his daughter, not listen to him?"
Since sir He Lian specifically told her to go back, there must be something he wants to instruct to her. If it was not about the matter of He Lian Wei Rui marrying over, then it had to be something extremely important involving the whole clan. Unfortunately, the rebel faction incident was too sudden. It has stalled her at this place, making her unable to take even one step out of Chanruo Courtyard.
"These days, did any of those women display an abnormal behavior?" Regarding his Highness's assassination, she heard from the servants that they were searching for the spy in the front yard. However, the inner yard was their key monitoring subject. Daring to collude with outsiders to assassinate Zhong Zheng Lin, it was undoubtedly like cutting off hers, He Lian Min Min's, way to survival. This person mustn't be let off no matter what.
This was the first time He Lian Min Min and Mu Xi Yao had the same thoughts. They both wanted to dispose that person behind the scenes and eliminate the root of the disaster. It was just that she still had some regrets in her heart. Since Yuancheng Emperor's decree was already issued, the matter of Mu Xi Yao being abducted must certainly be a rumor. Otherwise, the imperial family absolutely won't tolerate her existence.
That man called Mu Yu was too hateful! If he didn't meddle in, Mu Xi Yao would have been long removed from the imperial family. There will be a day when circumstances in the residence will turn for the better.
He Lian Min Min caressed her abdomen. Her eyes were filled with disappointment. She has made love with his Highness a couple of times, yet why was there no movement? It seems that she needs to work harder. Each month, she served his Highness two times. Although it could not be compared to Mu Xi Yao, at least she fared much better than other women in the inner yard. Besides, maybe one day his Highness would get into the mood and visit more Changruo Courtyard.
Su Lin Rou was already in a house arrest. She hoped that once they moved out of the palace, she could be released. Yet, unexpectedly, his Highness's restriction caused her to break into a wail. Which of other cefeis did not receive either favor or glory to some extent? When it came to her, all her attempts ended with disappointment. Not only was she put into confinement, but there also wasn't even a reason for it. Did his Highness spurn her?
Unlike He Lian Min Min who acted quick and has planted informers in the residence, before Su Lin Rou could make any arrangements, she was already being confined. She did not manage to get any advantages. As a result, she had no way to scout out information from the front yard and could not deduce the reason for the inner yard being put into house arrest.
His Highness's assassination was such a big matter. Yet, he won't allow her to head to the front yard and serve him. Just this issue alone was enough to let her imagination run wild.
When Wan Jing Wen entered the palace in the previous life, Zhong Zheng Lin has already ascended the throne. She wasn't very familiar with her seniors. However, she called to mind a rumor which said that after Jianan Emperor was bestowed a title of prince, he has once punished a woman. His means were extremely cruel and bloody. It seemed to have been related to the rebel faction.
Could it be that event happened in advance? If so, was this rebellion that woman's doing?
She compared Zhong Zheng Lin's current inner yard with the prince of Qin's inner yard in the previous life. There were only two extra women. In other words, did it mean that one of them must have been the spy Zhong Zheng Lin has executed?
Once she understood the connections, Wan Jing Wen started to made quick plans in her mind. It was too difficult to directly frame Mu Xi Yao. In that case, why doesn't she use the other approach? She can try to get close to her first and then look for her weak points, taking steady steps in devising her plans.
Translation notes:
[1] Hour of Chen refers to 7-9 am
122
"Your Highness, the ban in the inner yard…." As Tian Fu Shan saw the sixth Highness go directly to Danruo Courtyard as soon as he returned, as if forgetting about affairs in the inner yard, he had no other choice but to speak out and remind him.
Mistress Yao has returned safely. When his Highness went to bring her back, he used the imperial prince's sedan chair to travel to Mu residence and personally welcome the person. This cavalcade was rather like a bride's homecoming on the third day of the matrimony, except for that the sedan chair wasn't decorated with auspicious flower balls.
Zhong Zheng Lin walked in front of the party while taking unhurried steps. Behind him, Mu Xi Yao was supported by Zhao momo, walking steadily.
"Lift the ban and have the principal consort to pay more attention to the inner yard." He Lian Min Min did a pretty decent job in running the household. As for her secretly assigning her trusted aides in certain positions, it was a common practice to which the principal spouses in the Great Wei resorted to. Zhong Zheng Lin never interfered. He only asked his people to secretly check their backgrounds. The identity of each person had to be clear and well-documented.
Calling to mind being assassinated on the first day of the month and also being extremely dissatisfied with her conduct during the daytime, he dismissed going to Chanruo Courtyard. Nowadays, he was about to leave Shengjing, and there were some matters he needed to instruct to her carefully.
"In passing, tell her that bendian will go over to her after dinner."
When there were only two of them left in the room, Zhong Zheng Lin held Mu Xi Yao's shoulder with his right hand so that she could leisurely lean against his chest.
"There are still many things that need to be discussed with mister tonight. If it's too late, Jiao Jiao needn't wait for bendian, just go to rest." Zhong Zheng Lin stroked her hair. He was more and more accustomed to treating Mu Xi Yao like a daughter, being thorough and attentive in all aspects.
"Your Highness, you'll be leaving the capital day after tomorrow. Do you have any clue about the mole?"
When Zhong Zheng Lin heard her words, a cold light flashed through those long narrow phoenix eyes of his.
"Not yet. That person is perceptive. The secret guards are working in twelve-hour shifts and monitoring the residence, yet they still did not notice the slightest movement. That woman must be hiding deeply. At this time, she dares not to act rashly."
"Subduing the activity with serenity is not an infallible method." Mu Xi Yao smiled seductively. Her beautiful eyes shined with high spirits.
If she wants to take time and be torpid, she needs to see whether her opponent will give her such chance. Would she be foolish enough to let the other person catch her breath and continue to stab her in the back?
Zhong Zheng Lin loved to see her various quick-witted appearances. Every time she gets provoked by someone, she will extend her claws to scratch the other person. The look at that little appearance of hers made him smitten.
Kissing Mu Xi Yao's soft and pinkish cheek, Zhong Zheng Lin reminded her good-naturedly.
"If Jiao Jiao is interested, there is no harm in playing a bit. Just, take care of your belly and don't trouble yourself too much." Watching her lush eyelashes fluttering rapidly, he knew that the little woman's thoughts began to act up. This woman was always vengeful. Wanting her to calm down and settle accounts after childbirth will be like killing her. She will be angry at you. Her little temper was raised in such a way that it was immensely delicate. No ordinary person could touch her.
Originally, Zhong Zheng Lin planned to dispatch people to send all the concubines to live in the other residence before departing the capital to avoid the inner yard being noisy and disturb her privacy. Now it seems that Mu Xi Yao probably won't be happy with such an arrangement. Based on that tiny bit of patience of hers, she will move within these two days. If she doesn't catch the person, she won't leave the matter at that.
"Does your Highness still not know qie? Did qie ever treat myself unfairly due to others?" If she wants to catch the fox's tail1, she doesn't need to risk her life. What's more, this one in the belly is highly likely a daughter she has longed for a long time. That was an extremely important matter. No negligence was allowed.
Mu Xi Yao stretched out her hand to hold Zhong Zheng Lin's big hand. She smiled very sweetly, a change to her wilful appearance just now.
The sixth Highness was going to Shu Zhong. The silk flower and Shu embroidery from there were famous in Great Wei. And there was also delicious food that sounded mouthwatering. Although fresh food couldn't be brought back, there's not the slightest problem with pastries, fine tea, confections, dry meat, and such. It is said that porcelain vases and black bamboo flutes were excellent craftsmanship worth of great values.
"Do you want a benefit?" Zhong Zheng Lin turned his hand over to massage and rub her soft hand. A smile engaged in his phoenix eyes.
There was no need to ask. Watching her beautiful watery eyes full of expectation, so radiant and dazzling, he had no heart to refuse her.
"How can it be a benefit? They are but a tiny and trivial compensation. If it wasn't for qie being pregnant with your Highness's child, this trip to Shu Zhong, qie would have personally accompanied your Highness to go there. When the time comes, how much delicious food would be lying on the table waiting for qie to enjoy them? That is the real benefit!" Mu Xi Yao looked regretful. When she looked at Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes, she acted pitifully. "Or, how about your Highness send qie some authentic cook? He will stay in the courtyard to specially cook Shu cuisine so that your Highness can always taste it."
Mu Xi Yao spoke in a timid and gentle manner. Yet, Zhong Zheng Lin was not fooled by her. That last sentence clearly meant "conveniently, that's all".
Going to Shu Zhong to eliminate the rebel faction, the schedule was already tight and he had to also find her an authentic cook. If there wasn't a special benefit, Zhong Zheng Lin felt that he would be very disadvantaged. Even though it was to look for a person and it was only a matter of him telling orders.
"Jiao Jiao says that it's compensation. In that case, this benefit cannot stay unfulfilled. How about bendian demand it for you?" The solemn and honorable sixth Highness was inevitably a bit corrupted by the wicked influence during the long-term "demoness hunt". However, he did not forget about the important matter at the moment.
As Mu Xi Yao watched his unscrupulous eyes, her smile deepened. Your Highness, you've brought yourself right to qie's door all by yourself, if you can't sit still at He Lian principal consort's place, you cannot blame qie for seducing you.
She pulled his neck close and whispered softly in his ear. The words that were spoken by her red lips carried the woman's fragrant smell and they slowly made way to his ears. Burnt by them, the big hand that Zhong Zheng Lin used to hold her shoulder suddenly tightened up.
"Jiao Jiao is this vicious!" Zhong Zheng Lin fiercely kissed her cheek. Her words made his mind indulge in fantasy. The suspicious object under his robe seemed to raise its head.
During the entire meal, Mu Xi Yao would, from time to time, shoot Zhong Zheng Lin coquettish glances, making Zhong Zheng Lin's eyes getting darker and darker. Yet, this woman didn't know to restrain herself. She deliberately picked up a crisp-fried pork rib, moved it before her lips, pout them to lick, and suck the ribs, exposing the tiny tip of the tongue. The look of hers made Zhong Zheng Lin's throat tighten, wishing he could catch her and press against the bed, engaging in intimacies with her.
This woman was getting more and more sophisticated. The sixth Highness had to keep a tight rein on his mind so as not to fall into her calculations and make a fool of himself.
Before leaving, Zhong Zheng Lin suddenly turned around and smiled wickedly at Mu Xi Yao.
"Jiao Jiao, bendian will hurry up with discussion today." After saying that, he lifted the curtain and left without giving regard to her instantly frozen face.
Mu Xi Yao thought of his shameless words and was so angry she shouted, "Mo Lan, lock the doors! Lock the doors!" Big Boss had no integrity at all. She just teased him a little and he busied himself with her. Was this to force her to reap what she has sown?
Tian Fu Shan greeted the sixth Highness outside and they headed to Chanruo Courtyard. Just half a step behind him, he secretly glanced at the corners of his master's lips which were curled up. Inwardly, he quite admired mistress Yao's skills.
Anyone with eyes could see the changes that underwent in his Highness in the past two years. Her Ladyship Shu was especially pleased. Every time she heard that her younger son went to rest in the inner yard, she would repeatedly say "good". That appearance of hers looked like as if she was waiting for mistress Yao to give birth to one child after another.
"Your Highness, we have arrived at Changruo Courtyard. This servant will wait outside." Tian Fu Shan halted and courteously stood outside the door, respectfully seeing Zhong Zheng Lin off.
"Uhm." Zhong Zheng Lin's expression turned solemn. He crossed the gate of the courtyard while wearing a very familiar indifferent face. The look of him made Tian Fu Shan sigh in distraught.
When will be the principal consort able to make his Highness feel as relaxed as in the Danruo Courtyard and not be as strict as when running errands?
"Your Highness." He Lian Min Min was waiting outside as soon as she received the news. When she saw Zhong Zheng Lin stride in, she felt quite complicated. She stayed reserved and did not hurry to pay him respect as to not appear being too eager and lose the principal wife's steadiness.
When the news from his Highness came today, she initially thought that it was him making up for the night of Lunar New Year's Day. Just as she felt comforted – after all, his Highness has put her in his heart – she heard Tian Fu Shan speak the whole story. His Highness had to instruct her things before leaving the residence.
No matter how disappointed she was, it could not compare to the shock that made her space out. His Highness was about to leave the capital, but he only informed her about it two days in advance. His wounds were not healed yet. How can he hurry to run errands in Shu Zhong? Moreover, he will be gone for a month. How can be such a big matter decided suddenly? It must have been planned a long time ago and he delayed it until today to make this trip to Chanruo Courtyard.
Mu'shi should have already heard the news, right? That's why she went at it with all she's got to occupy his Highness's favor. She did not even forget to take advantage of such a trivial matter as returning to her parental home to take care of the fetus, prompting his Highness visiting Mu residence every day, not missing a day of the visit.
Recalling Mu Xi Yao's recent glory in Shengjing, He Lian Min Min felt that secondary consorts were all pernicious seductresses, banes that bewitched and wrecked their lords.
She had made up her mind. No matter what she mustn't learn Mu Xi Yao's vulgar tricks. It would only make her appear clumsy and fall short of her looks and sensuality. She might as well properly act as a virtuous wife and serve Zhong Zheng Lin attentively to win his trust and respect.
A beautiful face is always fated to be abandoned, but respect can preserve a lifetime. How can a favor last forever? How many more years are left of Mu Xi Yao's prime-age?
"Rise." Zhong Zheng Lin took a few steps to reach and stand before her. With an indifferent expression, he took a closer look at the woman who was curtsying and paying him a greeting.
The long peony skirt was very luxurious and exquisite. On her, it gave people an air of haughtiness.
"Go inside first." He went in with her and directly sat down in the outer room.
Seeing him keep away from the inner chamber, He Lian Min Min's heart thumped, suddenly feeling a bad omen. Was he implying that he won't be staying tonight and will be going to Mu'shi's room?
While holding back the anxiety, He Lian Min Min brought tea to him. "Your Highness, this is a newly delivered fragrant tea, have a taste of it. Qie thinks that it is very refreshing and relieves sore throat."
"Uhm." Zhong Zheng Lin took the cup and gently brushed aside tea leaves with the cover.
"Did Tian Fu Shan told you about the matter of bendian leaving the capital?"
"The chief steward has informed qie thoroughly. Qie is aware of this." He Lian Min Min hesitated for a bit but still voiced out her worries. "Your Highness, but your wounds…..qie is worried. What's more, you'll be gone for not a short time. If something happens to you on the road, then…."
Hearing her earnest speech that carried sincere worry in her words, Zhong Zheng Lin softened his expression a bit. He took a gentle sip of the fragrant tea and gave it praise.
"The wounds are no longer serious. The imperial physician prescribed external wound medicine. It's alright. However, after bendian leaves the capital, you'll need to pay more attention to the affairs in the prince's residence. If someone dares to come and bully, you needn't be polite with them and just kick them out of the residence."
He Lian Min Min listened to his words. Although they did not criticize her for secretly making things difficult for Mu'shi on that day, they also expressed his attitude that the prince's residence would not tolerate others' bully. Could this be regarded as a hidden warning?
"Qie will remember your Highness's instructions." He Lian Min Min rushed to respond respectfully, afraid to stir up his Highness's displeasure.
Seeing her reply quickly with a slightly uncomfortable expression, Zhong Zheng Lin knew that this woman had a guilty conscience and was lectured. He didn't need to chide her and spoil the principal wife's prestige in front of the servants.
Translation notes:
[1] Fox's tail is a Chinese idiom that means an evidence that reveals the villain
123
"He Lian'shi." Zhong Zheng Lin sternly called the person. He Lian Min Min's posture was as straight as a ramrod. She did not dare to be neglectful.
"You're the sixth princess consort. What should be the bearing of the principal wife, you should know it without bendian speaking it out. Bendian has promised you that no one in the residence will transcend you in regard to the status. It is still valid. Whether it is you or He Lian House, as long as your behavior is proper, the respect you deserve, bendian remembers it clearly in the heart."
"As for Danruo Courtyard, don't intervene. As a person, as long as people don't provoke Mu'shi, she won't make things difficult for others." This was the second time Zhong Zheng Lin mentioned Mu Xi Yao in front of He Lian Min Min. His words were crystal clear, she cannot move Danruo Courtyard.
As He Lian Min listened to him mentioning Mu'shi, his words carrying bias, her heart felt increasingly upset.
Did mother also have to make accommodations for the sake of overall interest in the He Lian House in the past and have to endure father defend other women in front of her? How did she respond at that time?
He Lian Min Min was being distracted just now. Yet, she heard Zhong Zheng Lin continue to talk. "You must have guessed by now that a secret chess piece by the rebel faction is hiding in the inner yard." Upon hearing such an important matter, He Lian Min Min's mind was refreshed.
"Your Highness, have you found out this person's identity?" The resentment in her expression was exactly the same that appeared on Mu Xi Yao's face.
From the rage which she was enduring silently, Zhong Zheng Lin could still easily tell the difference between the two women. Too much of distracting thoughts engaged He Lian Min Min's mind hence even her anger could not be completely pure. And Mu Xi Yao, her anger was proud and it clearly told you that she was enraged and that she insisted on seeking revenge!
The little woman was sometimes very simple. As long as you understood her, many puzzling things could be naturally answered. Although she had many shortcomings, her commendable qualities were enough to make up for her proud and unruly temper. Zhong Zheng Lin took pleasure in taming this wild and fierce horse.
"The identity of this person is still unknown. After bendian leaves the capital, Mu'shi will start to purge the inner yard. At that time, you only need to keep a watch and fulfill your duty as the principal consort. Making fair judgment will suffice."
Zhong Zheng Lin spoke as if it was a matter of course. However, it sounded differently in He Lian Min Min's ears.
Mu'shi will step in to solve this matter? Why? His Highness's words were clearly certain and without a doubt as if she could definitely discover the contact. If he found clues, why not let her severely punish the culprit in an upright and frank fashion as the principal consort and instead pick Mu'shi the most inappropriate person? Does she have the energy to meddle in this matter with that belly of hers?
"Your highness, cefei's belly, isn't it a bit inappropriate for her to bother about such thing at this time?" Although extremely unwilling, He Lian Min Min did not dare to turn a blind eye at Zhong Zheng Lin's offspring at such time.
No mishap must happen to Mu Xi Yao's child right now. Consort Shu kept putting pressure on her that if cefei's unborn child couldn't be preserved after she marries over, nothing pleasant will be spoken about her in the future. More importantly, Yuancheng Emperor also paid attention to Mu Xi Yao's child. She has met with danger several times yet she always managed to narrowly escape. Yuancheng Emperor thought that this child's fortune was not bad. He has once mentioned at consort Shu's palace that she has to properly look after them.
If she could escape safely from both the frame-up and assassination, but an accident happened to her in the residence instead, wouldn't it mean that she He Lian Min Min was even more terrifying than evil-doers? She absolutely mustn't taint herself with such a reputation.
Moreover, if observant people used this opportunity to make trouble and usher this to the matter of the birth chart, she won't be able to give a convincing explanation for self-defense. If the fortune of a concubine from the ordinary household clashed with the fortune of the mistress of the household, there was no doubt that the concubine would be driven out of the house. When it comes to her, if her birth chart dared to collide with that of Mu'shi, just based on the princess royal, she will have to be divorced and discarded by the imperial family.
Therefore, He Lian Min Min was extremely careful of this unborn child of Mu Xi Yoa. She did not dare to entertain her mind with any ill thoughts. This was also the reason for her dejection.
The status of the principal consort made her very angry as there was an untouchable ancestor in the residence. If any other woman beside Mu Xi Yao was pregnant in the residence, she wouldn't be able to watch helplessly shu son or daughter being born.
"She knows where the boundary is." When the little woman handled affairs, her usual way of doing work was to use her mouth and order people around. If it could tire her, would she have spoken out and taken on the responsibility? She would have pushed all the works on Tian Fu Shan.
Zhong Zheng Lin's words made He Lian Min Min unable to refute. If a man believes that a woman is sensible and acts tactfully, no matter how much she said it would be all to no avail and she might instead incur his dislike.
"That being the case, make the preparation. Day after tomorrow, you needn't go out of the residence and see bendian off." Zhong Zheng Lin put down teacup, about to leave.
"Your Highness." He Lian Min Min was truly unwilling to let go of such a good opportunity hence she mustered up the courage and spoke out to keep the person, "Qie has made a robe for your Highness. Does your Highness want to try it and see whether it fits your Highness well?"
It was rare for He Lian Min Min to ask a question. Yet, it made Zhong Zheng Lin abruptly recall Mu Xi Yao's meaningful gaze she cast him when she saw him out just now. His phoenix eyes slightly narrowed.
Has little woman figured out that He Lian'shi will want to keep him? The seduction and enticement just now were to make his heart tingle and think of her?
The sixth Highness explained the whole thing in his own way, and his mood immediately improved. The indifference on his face diminished slightly.
He patted softly the back of He Lian Min Min's hand which was tightly squeezing the silk handkerchief due to nervosity. Zhong Zheng Lin got up and tidied his clothes. "Bendian still have important matter left to run today so bendian won't stay."
He Lian Min Min thought that since his Highness's expression has softened and he became very affectionate, he was appreciative of her goodwill and agreed to stay. Unexpectedly, what awaited her was a straightforward rejection. It was as if her heart was poured with cold water, leaving it with no temperature.
This kind of attitude which verged on submissiveness also won't do? What kind of tricks did that Mu'shi use on his Highness?
With a stiff face, He Lian Min Min pulled a smile. Subsequently, she stood up, "Then, is it alright to let qie send your Highness out?" When the two of them spend a little bit more time together, they are bound to gradually get familiar with each other.
Seeing her almost begging expression, Zhong Zheng Lin let her walk beside him.
The two of them walked in the front followed by servants a few steps behind them. Helian Min Min sneaked a glance at the palm hung by his side, wanting to try to hold it. But in the end, she did not dare to break propriety.
She turned her head to look up at the man who walked alongside her. His side profile was grave and stern, bearing dignified. Such looks, even if he wasn't born into the imperial family, he would be still admired by many women.
But why, as his only principal consort, Zhong Zheng Lin always treated her with courtesy and kept her at a distance? Why couldn't she see qin and se sing in harmony1 as she looked forward to?
"Your Highness, as the princess consort, did Min Min do something wrong?" Otherwise, why do you never reveal a smile every time you come to Chanruo Courtyard?
Zhong Zheng Lin walked steadily. He showed consideration to her small steps and hence also slowed down a bit his speed. Looking at them from distance, the two who walked together looked like a harmonious husband and wife.
Zhong Zheng Lin's brow raised a bit when he heard her inquiries.
This question, he truly didn't know how to answer. What was not good about this principal consort?
In term of birth, He Lian Min Min came from a noble and prominent clan, a clan that produced officials. As the clan's eldest di daughter, her identity was adequate for the principal consort position.
In terms of erudition, she was well-educated and wasn't a flamboyant type of person.
In terms of appearance, although she didn't possess stunning beauty, her looks could be considered dignified and graceful which fitted well the princess consort's majestic presence.
In terms of temperament, except for selfish motives which made her commit a preposterous thing, so far, she was even-tempered.
Such a woman, as the principal wife, she fully comforted his previous imagination. Most importantly, He Lian Min Min couldn't gain upper hand over Mu Xi Yao, she was unable to bully his dearest. Now it seems that the little woman's east wind2 was too strong and, in a moment of neglection, it overwhelmed the other party. The reason why He Lian Min Min asked such a question today, it was probably due to Mu Xi Yao's presence being too overpowering.
As Zhong Zheng Lin recalled that heartless woman who lived comfortably in her courtyard and who did not regard He Lian Min Min as a rival, he could only sigh ruefully. The little vixen was quite capable. Every time she casually fanned evil wind, it made He Lian Min Min in Chanruo Courtyard being extraordinarily dreadful.
Translation notes:
[1] Qin and se sing in harmony is a Chinese idiom referring to husband and wife having a loving relationship
[2] East wind is a Chinese phrase that refers to favorable circumstances, revolutionary force or influence that push things/people forward
124
"No, you're satisfactory as the princess consort." Zhong Zheng Lin truly felt that compared to his brothers' principal wives, He Lian Min Min spared him many worries. At least, he did not saw her compete with other women for affection and engage in bloodshed.
Few women in the inner yard had clean hands. Even if their hearts were pure at first, as time goes, they will change beyond recognition. Unbeknownst, what kind of appearance will have this principal consort of his at the time.
He Lian Min Min did not get the response she wanted. She thought that Zhong Zheng Lin replied to her half-heartedly hence the disappointed look on her face deepened.
"If so, why did your Highness…." In the end, she was unable to ask that question. She was brought up in a boudoir. She was not allowed to indulge her feelings and boldly confess them to Zhong Zheng Lin.
The sixth Highness was a very sharp person. From the corner of his eyes, he swept a glance at her awkward appearance. He connected the two matters and figured out her unfinished words.
This was the best he could do for the woman he didn't care for. The response He Lian Min Min looked for, he was impatient to give it to her. What's more, there was also Mu Xi Yao that vixen who was stirring up havoc. He already had a hard time dealing with the little woman hence where did he got time to divide it for other women?
"Walk me only here. Go back." Zhong Zheng Lin saw Tian Fu Shan's figure not far away, and before she could reply, he strode out of the inner yard.
"Mistress, his Highness has walked away. The wind is cool here. Let's go back." Feng momo fixed the gown for her and persuaded her to head back to the house. Standing outside in the evening was not a solution. No matter how she hated to part with his Highness, the person was already gone. Yet, she still ardently watched. Her longing won't bring him back, will it?
"In momo's opinion, what's the matter in the way his Highness treats qie? If you say his Highness doesn't care, he visits qie's room according to the established days. If you say he has affections for qie, he is often cold and indifferent, making one's heart sink."
If Zhong Zheng Lin truly didn't care about a woman, he would treat her like how he treated other women. He would leave her in the inner yard and paid her no heed. You can think up every possible method but you won't be able to get close to him. As long as you didn't break his rules, even if you raise hell in the courtyard, you can still live peacefully to old age.
"Mistress, his Highness naturally treats you well. In this whole courtyard, apart from Mu cefei, who can receive his Highness's grace? Isn't the greatest love a man can give to a woman an offspring which can let her gain a footing?"
"But that Mu'shi….." He Lian Min Min couldn't bring herself to finish the sentence in front of the servants. According to the number of times Mu Xi Yao attended to his Highness, it was much easier for her to get pregnant than her. Could it be that from now on, she had to let her have children run around her knees and dominate over the inner yard?
Seeing her frown with worry, Feng momo could only offer her well-meant advice, "Mistress, how can you think like this? No matter how many sons she has, how can they compare to di sons born of you? The old ancestor's rule, the dishu priority system1, it's all set on birth. Lady Mu has no chance to change her position. Hence, why do you trouble yourself by mulling over blindly in the middle of the night?"
He Lian Min Min grasped the hand that Feng momo stretched out to support her while her voice carried a desolation, "Isn't this just because there's still no shadow of di son? If qie was pregnant with child, qie will be able to speak more firmly in front of his Highness and her Ladyship consort Shu."
He Lian Min Min took a few steps and suddenly felt something was wrong. After pondering about it for a moment, she felt her heart clench. She unconsciously squeezed Feng momo's arm.
"Feng momo, just now, where did his Highness head to? Did you see it clearly?"
"This," Feng momo didn't understand why mistress would have such a question and be so anxious. She did not dare to be negligent. Carefully recalling for a while, she spoke with hesitation, "This servant seemed to have seen his Highness's figure head toward the left side."
He Lian Min Min took a deep breath and squeezed the silk handkerchief into a ball.
The study. How can it be on the left leading to the backyard and garden? Was this the important matter his Highness mentioned about, which made him unable to stay tonight?
—
Tian Fu Shan followed behind the sixth Highness, feeling quite puzzled. Didn't his Highness agree upon going to the study right now to discuss official business with mister? Why did he return to mistress Yao's place?
When the two came to the entrance of the courtyard, they saw the door to the Danruo Courtyard being locked, shut tightly. The chief steward had no other choice but to step forward and pat the door. Inwardly, he was quite bewildered. Could this be what Wei Zhen has told him in private, that mistress Yao has denied his Highness entrance at the door?
Such an experience was new to him. Just, he didn't know whether his Highness would need him to be on the lookout later so that his Highness could display his martial arts. As the chief steward in the residence, Tian Fu Shan has served Zhong Zheng Lin since he was a child. He has never seen the sixth Highness overstep the bounds of propriety. Regarding the rumor that the sixth Highness had to climb over the wall to enter his own courtyard, the chief steward was looking forward to it a tiny bit.
Zhong Zheng Lin looked at the tightly closed door to the courtyard and was secretly amused. The little woman has set a fire, and after being scared by him, she now intended to be an ostrich?
When the maidservants in the Danruo Courtyard heard the chief steward knock at the door, how did they dare to just stand there and pay him no heed? Although their mistress told them that they were not allowed to open the door, if his Highness insisted on going in, how were they able to stop him? As servants, there was no need to ruin their assignments because of their master's and mistress's private amusements. But, that said, although running errands in the Danruo Courtyard got them generous gains, they had to be smart. Based on their mistress's personality, she would think up new tricks now and then, and you as a servant had to understand the motives behind her actions, didn't you?
Mu Xi Yao was ordering a servant girl to sort out Zhong Zheng Lin's baggage in the room. The robes and belts, she went through them and selected them one by one, and then had them stacked neatly. Just as everyone in the room was so busy they had a lot of irons in the fire, they saw the sixth Highness lift the curtain by himself and enter the room.
When Mu Xi Yao caught the glimpse of the man's tall figure, she disregarded everything else. She cried out in alarm and threw away the man's robe she had in hands. As soon as she got up, she went to hide behind the screen.
Didn't he say that he had an important matter tonight and won't be coming back? Why did he return to the Danruo Courtyard so soon? Could it be that he deliberately came back to fix her?
Mu Xi Yao had pangs of conscience. She knew that it was too dangerous to incite his desire thus she instinctively tried to avoid him. Boss has now come to demand payment of her debt and it was obvious that she will come to a not good end. This woman believed her own lies. Where could she hide in front of Zhong Zheng Lin?
The sixth Highness was in a great mood upon seeing her rare flustered appearance. This woman still knew to be embarrassed? Seeing her bashful and anxious, occupied with hiding somewhere, Zhong Zheng Lin only felt that this domesticated rabbit was too interesting when startled. Wasn't this "pacing about in an agitated fashion" that ordinary people talked about?
Such a shy appearance of the little woman will only incite more his desire.
Everyone in the room was startled by cefei's sudden scream. Before they could recover, they saw the sixth Highness take two-three strides, extend his long arms, and capture cefei from behind the screen. In the blink of an eye, a pair of arms encircled the woman and hugged her tightly.
Disregarding the people around who were standing there awkwardly, Zhong Zheng Lin leaned over and whispered in Mu Xi Yao's ears.
"What Jiao Jiao has said was too alluring. Bendian kept savoring your words. Unable to stop the fluttering in the heart, bendian came to demand the repayment." Ignoring the fact that her head was buried deep and the tip of her ears were burning hot, Zhong Zheng Lin picked up the person and headed outside.
"Pack up the things. Tonight, cefei will be accompanying bendian in the study." The sixth Highness snatched the beauty from the house and went to the front yard while contentedly carrying the soft and warm woman in his arms.
The servants left behind looked speechlessly at each other, unable to come back to themselves for a long time.
His Highness took the mistress away. What will they do if the little master cannot find cefei to tell him a bedtime story and starts to throw a tantrum?
The little bun Cheng Qing finally got to enjoy time with his mum, yet his old geezer intercepted his mum halfway. This evening, the little bun cried pitifully and used his babyish voice to make a fuss about looking for his mum. He insisted on listening to his fragrant mum telling him stories.
With no other choice left, Mo Lan imitated her mistress's tone. She put together bits and pieces of the story she had heard and retold the story to the little bun. Fortunately, the child was young and could be calmed down after a proper coaxing. A short while later, Cheng Qing was attracted by the story and slowly forgot to throw a tantrum.
After Mo Lan talked till her throat felt slightly dry, the little master finally got tired and obediently fell asleep. At last, Zhao momo could put her heart at rest and take the wet nurse back to the house to properly settle down the little master. Fortunately, Mo Lan was quick-witted. Otherwise, if the little master kept on making a big fuss, they'd be forced to go to the front yard. Looking at his Highness's mood just now, whoever dared to bother master and spoil his intimate moments with the mistress would end up badly.
It's just that since the two masters weren't in the Danruo Courtyard nowadays, they had to take good care of the little master. No careless mistakes were allowed. A few days ago, on the night when cefei left the residence to "nurse the fetus", his Highness protected well the little master. He directly sent the little master to her Ladyship consort Shu's palace, startling consort Shu who got up in the middle of the night into thinking that the little master fell ill. Yet, it was all a false alarm.
—
"Your Highness~" Mu Xi Yao hid in Zhong Zheng Lin's arms, unwilling to raise her head. Seeing that he was determined to not let her go, she stopped the meaningless struggle and began to think about how to escape this man's punishment.
"Isn't it a bit inappropriate of qie to go and disturb your Highness's discussion over confidential matters?" Her tone was both delicate and sultry, and she also bore in mind Zhong Zheng Lin's current important affairs.
It was now too late for Mu Xi Yao to regret it. If she knew that nothing was taboo to the boss and that he would even stoop to being a bandit, she would need to have a brain fade to provoke him.
The sixth Highness steadily hugged the person. The corners of his lips were raised. He watched with amusement how she still kept struggling.
"Since Jiao Jiao is reluctant to part with bendian, then stay in the compartment for a while and wait for bendian. Once bendian is finished, bendian will rub heads2 with Jiao Jiao, and shower you with affections to make up for the pain of Jiao Jiao's lovesickness in the future one month."
The sixth Highness spoke with such deep feelings. But to Mu Xi Yao's ears, each of his words was like a blast which made her face turn pale from the scare and incited even more her anger.
This stinky man deliberately misinterpreted her meanings, and shamelessly put feathers in his own cap. Who had lovesickness? Shameless! Boss's personality became more and more twisted. He was so tsundere that he resembled a peacock in heat. Only in his dreams!
The two crossed swords several times. No matter how shy Mu Xi Yao was and didn't want to show her face, it couldn't change the fact that this road had just this sort of distance, and they will, inevitably, reach the destination.
When they arrived at the study, Zhong Zheng put her down steadily and, while at it, he tidied up the wrinkled dress for her. The sixth Highness has achieved his goal. Raising his eyebrow, he took her inside.
Mu Xi Yao stared at the man with a straight figure in front of her and cast him several angry stares.
One can lose a man but not a battle formation3! No matter what, she mustn't lose her grandeur in front of Zhong Zheng Lin's advisors. Mu Xi Yao immediately collected her expression and assumed a steady and tactful temperament, while walking slowly inside in a confident manner.
Mu Xi Yao courteously greeted Di Wu Yi Zhao and then gave a nod to the other advisers. As she turned around, Mu Xi Yao threw a blatant coquettish glance toward Zhong Zheng Lin's direction and then triumphantly entered the compartment. Behind her, she was followed closely by Hui Lan who held her breath in fear. She was holding a soft pillow Mu Xi Yao often used and the book she was fond of reading. This was his Highness's study. Not to mention a mere servant like her, even the principal consort has never been here.
Hui Lan looked at the laid-back appearance of her mistress who was in front of her. She was as comfortable as if she was at her home, not even registering the solemn atmosphere in the study just now. Hui Lan had her heart in the mouth. She was afraid that she would make any noise in the study and disturb his Highness's important matters. It would be a great offense.
Mu Xi Yao rested against the soft pillow and leisurely browsed through the book, but her mind drifted far away.
If she was not mistaken, the handsome scholar behind Di Wu Yi Zhao must be Gong Shu Yang. As for the other people, she truly didn't know them. Just now, in order to escape, she uttered "confidential matters" without thinking. Unexpectedly, her wild guess was right.
The members here should all be deeply trusted by Zhong Zheng Lin. Otherwise, he would not have rashly taken her to the study and show his affections for her in front of others.
Di Wu Yi Zhao had seen the sixth Highness and cefei's interactions several times in the past. As a result, when he saw the two enter the room in tandem, he wasn't the least surprised. He was aware of cefei's abilities.
A woman who could escape unscathed in two extremely dangerous situations, to his Highness she signified a powerful aid. Since there was cefei to oversee the inner yard, his Highness can set his mind at rest and plan great things.
Although the rest of the people were surprised that his Highness would take a woman into the study, they knew well his Highness's personality. Since they could gain Zhong Zheng Lin's trust, how could they be stupid? Everyone tacitly ignored the outmoded conventions which told that it was inappropriate for women to enter the study and began to propose advice for his Highness's trip to Shu Zhong after being called by Di Wu Yi Zhao.
For a moment, the debate at the front was in full swing while Mu Xi Yao enjoyed quietly her book at the back. She was unwilling to know too much of the men's affairs. A lazy person like her should just hug the boss's thigh firmly and stride unfalteringly toward comfortable life.
Translation notes:
[1] Dishu is an important legal and moral system involving marriage and inheritance in ancient China (for more information click here)
[2] Heads rubbing together is a Chinese idiom meaning deep affection; being very intimate
[3] One can lose a man but not a battle formation is a Chinese idiom which means that no matter how lacking one is, one must do his/her best and not let others belittle him/her
125
In the Chanruo Courtyard, He Lian Min Min has received information from her plant which told that his sixth Highness entered the study with cefei and hasn't come out since. This reply was even more shocking than when she initially thought that his Highness went to rest at Mu'shi's chamber.
"Momo, sent someone to deliver a letter. Tomorrow, I'll return to the He Lian residence." Even if she gets scolded by her father, she had to make this visit as soon as possible. If she continues to do nothing, her principal consort status would certainly be only an empty title. He Lian House would get nothing.
On the next day, Mu Xi Yao lazily leaned against Zhong Zheng Lin, and kept him off from going to the courtyard to practice the sword. Last night, his Highness had tormented her enough. Could he not let her have a tantrum and dawdle in the bed? Without a human pillow to cool down the temperature, how can this summer be comfortable?
Zhong Zheng Lin lied on his back with closed eyes and let her give a free rein to her delicate temper. This sort of little retaliation didn't hurt nor tickle. He could naturally bear it. Occasionally delaying the work because of the beauty was also a kind of a delight.
Besides, compared to the ecstatic experience from yesterday, Mu Xi Yao's little tricks right now were simply negligible. The little woman was currently lying on him, and that soft little hand of hers kept venting her anger on him. It did not resemble throwing a fit, but more like flirting with him early in the morning.
"Jiao Jiao, don't hesitate to use your strength. Cheng Qing that little boy and your beloved rabbits in the courtyard won't get ill from the hunger anytime soon." The sixth Highness had a good laugh at her.
When Mu Xi Yao heard him mention her son and rabbits, she finally recalled the proper affairs. She mustn't be mindlessly taken to the wrong path by the boss. One indeed mustn't be vindictive or else it would be easy to lose one's original self.
"Your Highness!" Mu Xi Yao pulled at his big hand and acted dumb, "Your son didn't see you yesterday. He must be surely missing you dearly. How about going to see him now? As your Highness stops by there, can your Highness take qie along?"
Zhong Zheng Lin enjoyed how she pestered and fawned over him. After taking enough benefits, he slowly got up. The reason why Mu Xi Yao was willing to put in time and energy to dilly-dally with him was merely because of the "take along".
Wei Zhen waited and waited, but he didn't see his Highness coming out. Just as he was gazing at the sky and sighing that it was the sixth Highness's second time being absent on the morning exercise, he saw his Highness carrying cefei out and walking steadily to the inner yard.
As Wei Zhen surveyed the respectful guards and manservants around, he deeply felt that maybe mistress Yao has tempered this steel too much1. She made his Highness broke quite a lot of customs. Indeed, even the strongest warrior could be seduced by a beautiful woman!
"Are you happy now?" When this woman saw him losing every scrap of his prestige, that smugness of hers was just too flamboyant.
Since she has achieved what she wanted, Mu Xi Yao decided to not be greedy. She clung to Zhong Zheng Lin and kissed up to him, telling him a few words of praise as a comfort to the sixth Highness's lost face.
"Your Highness is mighty and extraordinary, of striking looks, whose outstanding appearance needs not any adornments. Who dares to gossip about your Highness?" Mu Xi Yao's face turned solemn. She praised in a powerful and resonating voice that carried no trace of shame.
"Oh?" As Zhong Zheng Lin listened to Mu Xi Yao's flatters which have leveled up, he was especially dissatisfied. He continued to tease her, "If bendian was the person from Jiao Jiao's mouth then how outstanding must Jiao Jiao be, to be able to enchant bendian's mind?"
He was waiting for this little shameless one's reply.
Mu Xi Yao looked into his meaningful phoenix eyes while appearing very smug.
"Qie naturally cannot lose to your Highness too much. Qie can narrowly compare to that beauty from Luo River."
Zhong Zheng Lin raised his head and laughed heartily. The man's mellow laughter went on for a long while.
Mu Xi Yao was exceptional at praising others. Unbeknownst, she was an expert in self-praise. This vixen was ambitious. As soon as it came to comparison, she chose a peerless beauty from a storybook whose stunning looks could outrival those from past and present.
"Very well! Bendian has obtained a rare treasure without any extra trouble. Hereafter, bendian will definitely keep a close eye at Jiao Jiao so that Jiao Jiao won't be coveted after by others." The beauty from Luo river made everyone fight over her and she has suffered many setbacks throughout her life.
Mu Xi Yao was taken aback. She almost forgot about this. Her eyes turned2, and a bright smile appeared on her face, "What's so difficult about it? Once your highness points out the banner, your Highness can sweep away all the obstacles. The companionship of qie and the unrivaled hero will become a story that will spread far and wide." Jianan Emperor's punitive expedition to the west was a magnificent achievement. If it was said like this, it wasn't all an unctuous flattery.
Her words soothed Zhong Zheng Lin's heart. A man displayed his wisdom and bravery through the fight for supremacy on the battlefield. Though Mu Xi Yao's resounding speech had a likelihood of flattery, it fitted his big ambitions.
Watching his bright expression and burning phoenix eyes, Mu Xi Yao's heart brimmed with joy.
Weren't those noble aspirations of lord Boss the common problem of all Emperors? In history, which brilliant ruler and sage did not use blood to build his counties achievement? Apart from literary talent and martial arts skills, how can an Emperor lack a punitive expedition?
However, the Jianan Emperor from the previous life had too harsh methods. His conquests were bloody, with bones of countless dead. Mu Xi Yao was very sensitive to the word massacre. Before, she didn't believe in fate nor destiny. But after experiencing them in person, she understood that people had to have reverence. Ruling with diplomacy and benevolence surpassed violent suppression and submission.
"When does Jiao Jiao plan to start out on a task with the mole?" Zhong Zheng Lin will leave the residence tomorrow. He was a little curious about how will Mu Xi Yao investigate the inner yard.
"If your Highness consents, how about borrowing qie the shadow guards?" She was just about to speak to him about this, but she didn't expect that his sixth Highness would remember it better than her and take it to heart.
Zhong Zheng Lin raised his eyebrow. Why did this woman want shadow guards? The shadow guards worked on a shift system, yet they found no clues.
"Your Highness, qie's purpose to borrow the shadow guards is not to catch the spy." Mu Xi Yao smiled mischievously. Her eyes were as bright as stars. "In the war of two armies, apart from facing the enemy head-on and winning the battle fairly and squarely, there's also the art of deceit."
This time, she gambled on courage and luck. If there were not enough clues, then she had to find a way to get the evidence to appear. In the battle of wits, Mu Xi Yao never hesitated to try all the means as long as they brought the results. She wanted to use the little plan she had in her hands to play a beautiful Mu'shi's "Empty city strategy3".
Zhong Zeng Lin listened to her with interest. It actually involved the battle formation of the troops? Did she want to use an unusual plan to break free from the situation?
"After bendian leaves the capital, Wei Zhen will stay behind as your guard. You can assign him with the task of allocating the shadow guards."
Mu Xi Yao was shocked. "Your Highness, if you leave Wei Zhen to qie, who will take over as your personal guard?"
Zhong Zheng Lin's trip to Shu Zhong, the outcome was not certain and it wasn't assured that he will be able to easily capture the rebels. From just looking at that day how Di Wu Yi Zhao and the lot mobilized forces to scheme for the whole night, one could see that the other party was not a pushover.
Moreover, to be able to use her as a lure and make two Highnesses fall into the trap, their lord was quite refined. Besides, he did not lack strategists nor advisors. Those brainwashed death soldiers4 had no care for their life. Compared to people with the right mind, they were like mad dogs, extremely difficult to deal with.
She has heard that this time Zhong Zheng Ming has also volunteered to join this mission of eliminating the rebel faction. He will go to Shu Zhong together with Zhong Zheng Lin to pacify the rebellion. The reason was that the fifth Highness had commanded well in the previous battle that took place in the capital and was highly familiar with the rebels' strategies. The two of them can thus support each other.
Yuancheng Emperor only pondered for a moment and then immediately granted his request. Since he was determined to capture the rebels in one go he will cut weeds and eliminate the roots5. After removing the internal trouble of Great Wei, he would be able to wholeheartedly deal with the war in Mobei.
"Don't worry. Yan Cheng Zhou will act as bendian's personal guard and the head of shadow guards will be accompanying and escorting bendian. Jiao Jiao only needs to rest your mind at ease and wait for the child to be born. Don't let bendian be distracted by you." When Zhong Zheng Lin saw Mu Xi Yao's expression change, he was particularly satisfied with the worry for him she revealed. He leaned over and planted a kiss on her forehead. His eyes were filled with ruthlessness and chilliness.
The rebel faction in the Shu Zhong had to be removed. Mu Xi Yao was already on their to-be-killed list. As long as this scourge was not eliminated, the little woman will be in danger. Such risk he Zhong Zheng Lin couldn't bear.
Translation notes:
[1] It refers to a Chinese idiom "after tempering the steel for a hundred times, the steel will turn into a soft thing that can be wrapped around the finger" which is used as a metaphor for describing that even someone hot-tempered can be groomed into a mild-tempered person
[2] Eyes turning is a phrase used to describe someone thinking, coming up with ideas
[3] Empty city strategy also known as Empty fort strategy refers to the the strategy that involves using reverse psychology (and luck) to deceive the enemy into thinking that an empty location is full of traps and ambushes, and therefore induce the enemy to retreat (see more)
[4] Death soldier is referred to soldiers who dares to die. These soldiers mainly engage in assassination missions
[5] To cut weeds and eliminate the roots is a Chinese idiom that means to eliminate completely