Chapter 6: Steadfast
◎ There were only three days left until the execution of her ill-fated former fiancé... ◎
As Yu Niang had anticipated, Yu Sanlang initially planned to find his daughter a scholar as a suitor. However, upon the young man's suggestion, he pondered over it and found the idea agreeable.
In this way, once the groom-to-be received his official appointment, he would take his daughter far away, ensuring that no matter how significant the past troubles were, they would no longer affect her.
Moreover, he would provide additional dowry in the form of silver bills, leaving no concern that her future husband would be unable to support their daughter.
Upon hearing this, Yu Lian felt that her father was truly reliable. She also found the arrangement satisfactory and even inquired if the prospective groom had concubines, chambermaids, or any other female attendants for companionship.
Her father looked at her as if she were a fool. How could someone whose impoverished mother washed clothes for others to finance his scholarly pursuits have the means to indulge in women?
Yu Lian understood that there were no such distractions in his life. She was delighted, feeling that she had found herself a suitable roommate.
Nonetheless, to be on the safe side, she dispatched a young maid to gather more information.
The man was quite well-known in the village located on the outskirts of the capital city. He was surnamed Ding and had recently passed the imperial examination, even if it was at the very bottom of the list. This achievement alone made him a local celebrity.
His mother was commonly referred to as Old Lady Ding. Whenever people discussed her, they would express sympathy for her difficult life, which had finally turned around for the better.
The young maid went out to inquire and returned with a cheerful report. "The villagers say he's quite good-looking and very obedient to his mother. He's known far and wide for his filial piety. He has two younger siblings."
Yu Lian's heart sank upon hearing this. "He listens to everything his mother says?"
The maid replied, "I believe so, Miss. It's quite normal, isn't it? Didn't they say he relied on his elderly mother washing clothes for others to support his studies for the exams? It's only natural that he's very filial."
"However, I've heard that Old Lady Ding can be overbearing and sharp-tongued. It might take some effort to establish a good relationship if we were to marry into their family."
Upon hearing this, Yu Lian signaled for the maid to stop.
She sighed.
In the mere few days since her transmigration, Yu Lian has sighed countless times. Presently, filial piety is widely regarded as a virtue; it's likely that in her father's eyes, such devotion would also be considered a significant merit. However, Yu Lian comes from a modern world saturated with bizarre social news stories, where her fellow women have identified several types of men unsuitable for marriage. Among them is the 'Mama's Boy'.
With the maid also describing Old Lady Ding as overbearing and harsh, it seemed even less ideal to have her as a potential mother-in-law, let alone a roommate.
On that same day, Yu Lian told her father that she wished to reconsider, no longer desiring the marriage.
Yu Sanlang was utterly baffled. He truly couldn't understand and asked with a frown, "Are you disdainful of their humble background? Father will double your dowry; you needn't fear hardship."
Yu Lian shook her head. It wasn't due to that.
She tried to reason with her father, " filial piety is commendable, but if I were to obey my mother excessively, I fear it may lead to difficulties in my relationship with my future mother-in-law. Father, you know my personality..."
Fathers often found it difficult to comprehend the intricacies of conflicts between women, such as those between a daughter-in-law and her mother-in-law. He believed that all issues within the family could be resolved through open communication. Convinced that Yu Lian was disdainful of the groom's humble background, he lectured her accordingly.
Yu Lian: Feeling numb...
That night, Yu Lian didn't sleep well. It was the first time she had experienced a sleepless night since her arrival in this era. She spent the entire night contemplating her path forward, how to escape this identity and the entanglement, and how to live peacefully in this world.
Suddenly, she remembered: There were only three days left until the execution of her ill-fated former fiancé...
With this thought on her mind, she fell asleep. A mischievous idea sparked within her. Reflecting on someone else's misfortune made her realize that she had no reason to feel discouraged herself.
As she pondered, she found solace and drifted into a deep slumber.
The next morning, after paying respects, everyone was dismissed by the matriarch. Under the envious, jealous, and resentful gazes of her sisters, Yu Lian was affectionately retained by the elder.
The matriarch examined her meticulously, touching her face with her long-nailed thumb, accidentally causing a slight sting. Yu Lian instinctively tilted her head slightly, but the angle was so subtle that the matriarch didn't notice.
Smiling warmly and joyfully, the matriarch said, "These past few days, your two aunts, your mother, and your father have been searching for suitable matches for you, looking for a marriage. Grandmother has been watching all this."
"I kept them here for these days because my little sixth is from an imperial duke's household, a genuine and legitimate daughter of an imperial duke. With such beauty, she deserves the best husband. So I waited and waited, but all they found were good-for-nothings, not a single worthy candidate among them, just flawed individuals."
"The Wang family's prospect is decent, but their family has a history of being wayward. Does your eldest aunt think I'm too old to see through her? A man like that would only bring suffering. Grandmother wouldn't let Lian suffer."
"Your father is even more absurd, considering a match with a poor family. Putting aside the scholar's qualities, his mother and siblings are uncultured people. Could you possibly have a happy life if you married into such a family? In such a crude and lowly household, should any conflict arise, it would be like a scholar meeting a soldier, where reason goes unheard. If your husband were a filial son and took his mother's side, you'd be destined for a life of misery. It's infuriating that your foolish father can't see this crucial point!"
"Why must my granddaughter, a daughter of an imperial duke, lower herself to such depths?"
Yu Lian was surprised that her grandmother, in her advanced age, understood the perils of a Mama's boy. Indeed, only women truly understood women.
The matriarch criticized each of her sons and their wives for their matchmaking efforts before continuing, laying the groundwork for her next words: "Actually, Grandmother had previously considered several families. After careful comparison, only the House of Duke of Ruyang remained as the favored choice."
Upon hearing this, Yu Lian's heart skipped a beat.
The matriarch commented, "The legitimate youngest son of the Marquis of Yu Yang is known for his handsome appearance and lively wit since childhood. Although he cannot inherit the marquis title, his maternal family holds considerable power, ensuring a promising future for him. If you were to marry him, you would continue to enjoy a life of comfort in the capital. Moreover, he is from a marquis household, not inferior to the previous one we mentioned."
"In two days' time, the execution is scheduled to take place... Once this turmoil subsides, Grandmother will make arrangements. Our families will exchange betrothal certificates, and we'll proceed with the six ritual steps of marriage as soon as possible. Ideally, if feasible, you should marry into the House of Duke of Yangzhou before the end of the year. Rest assured, Grandmother will ensure a generous dowry for you."
Tears welled up in her eyes as she held Yu Lian's hand. "The day I sent a servant to deliver your brother's talisman, the maid overheard you telling your mother that you risked your reputation by visiting the prison to make a point, to show the emperor that you have severed ties with the East Yuan Marquis's heir. My grandson was willing to sacrifice his reputation for the safety of the entire household... Your grandmother was deeply moved. My little Liан has grown up and become sensible. How can I bear the guilt of not being able to secure your future after such a significant event?"
Feeling awkward, Yu Lian lowered her head and softly replied, "It's only right. It was my mistake, so I should face the consequences alone."
"What burden to bear... This is a calamity of both heaven and earth, an unforeseen event for all. How could a young maiden like you sway the course of events? My dear, there's no need for self-reproach. Your grandmother has already found you a most auspicious match; the House of Ruyang is the maternal family of the Imperial Noble Consort. If you marry into their household and become the consort's niece-in-law, the Emperor, out of respect for the Noble Consort, would likely no longer hold it against you."
Through these days of matchmaking, Yu Lian had learned that finding a suitable husband in ancient times as a modern person was no easy task, let alone in a high-ranking family if it was already difficult in a humble one.
Although the Residence of the Marquis of Ruyang has agreed to engage in marriage with her for reasons unknown, it is easy to surmise that even if they lack concubines, they certainly have cohabiting consorts. These noble scions are rarely without their fair share of womanizing tendencies.
She didn't immediately agree or refuse on the spot but told her grandmother that she would discuss it with her parents first. The elderly lady grew anxious and said, "Urge your parents to make a decision swiftly. It's better to settle this early. The marriage was already hurried, and there are many ceremonial procedures to follow. A delay might invite unforeseen circumstances."
Yu Lian nodded, bid her grandmother farewell, and went to find her mother.
Upon hearing this, Yu Niang felt relieved. While her husband had said that marrying into a humble family would bring fewer worries, she couldn't bear the thought of her daughter, a daughter of a Duke's residence, descending to the status of a poor or low-born spouse. The mere contemplation of her daughter struggling for a penny in the future tugged at her heartstrings.
Now that she's heard her mother-in-law has taken a liking to the legitimate youngest son of the Duke of Ryang, her spirits immediately lifted.
I forgot to set a schedule... The pace is rather slow, with plenty of groundwork being laid. Please take your time enjoying it.
The first 30,000 words can be saved for later reading. After I finish posting that amount, I'll take some time to revise the story, and then the updates will proceed regularly.
Chapter 7: A Place to Belong
◎ Only by breaking can one rebuild! ◎
Upon seeing her reaction, Yu Lian's heart sank.
She couldn't help but ask, "Mother, do you also think this marriage is a good match?"
Yu Niang glanced at her daughter and replied matter-of-factly, "What's wrong with it? With your current status, there aren't many noble families in the entire capital who would dare to take you as their daughter-in-law. I wouldn't even consider a family of lower status; it's not suitable, and you'd only suffer. Your father only wants to keep a low profile and ensure safety, but he doesn't understand that a miserable life might be worse than death. You've grown up in luxury, with delicate skin and tender flesh. If you were to marry into a humble family and become the wife of a county magistrate, living in some remote area, life would be tight, and you'd likely end up with roughened skin. Would you be able to endure that?"
Yu Lian: "...But if the youngest legitimate son of the Ruyang Marquis has concubines..."
The woman looked surprised at her daughter. "Which noble family's man doesn't have concubines? As long as they don't have an illegitimate eldest son before you enter the household, it's not considered excessive. Given your situation, listen to your mother's advice. Don't be so picky. If you keep searching, not only will you struggle to find a good husband, but I'm worried that once the East Yuan Marquis' case is settled, they'll remember you and deal with you too. What then?"
"Mother means that if... if our branch of the family were implicated, we wouldn't be able to stay in the mansion. If we were forced out, how could your father, a mere sixth-rank official, protect us all here, under the emperor's nose? Finding you a suitable marriage would become even more challenging, and your younger brother is still young. You must also consider him. If you marry well, your brother will grow up faster, and with the prestige of the Duke's mansion, he could strive for a bright future. Then, Mother would have no other wishes."
Seeing that her daughter was still unconvinced, Yu Niang continued, "This is the reality for women nowadays. There are no exceptions. Even your father, who is disciplined and doesn't indulge in lust, has two concubines, three illegitimate children. How much more so for other noble offspring?"
After a long silence, Yu Lian cautiously asked, "Mother, what do you think Grandmother would do if I'm not satisfied with the youngest legitimate son of the Ruyang Marquis and refuse to marry him?"
Her mother was somewhat surprised. "You're really not going to marry? You truly don't fancy him?"
"Mother, please don't worry about whether I'm marrying or not right now. I'm just giving an example. Tell me first, based on your understanding of Grandmother, what do you think she would do?"
The mother pondered seriously. "Your grandmother might seem like a gentle and kind elderly lady now, but back when your grandfather was defending the borders in battles, she was right by his side. She's seen the battlefield, experienced grand scenes. Human flesh, blood, swords flashing — none of those faze her..."
"Mother, why are you telling me this?"
"Silly child, this is to let you know that despite your grandmother's kindness, she has a strong heart and won't easily soften. Whoever threatens the safety of the Marquis Manor will be her enemy, even if it's her granddaughter. It's a good thing that she's willing to arrange such a fine marriage for you. If you marry, she'll happily provide you with dowry. If you don't, you might not have a choice..."
As she spoke, Yu Niang sighed, feeling helpless.
"Your father is a filial son with an upright character. He listens to your grandmother and takes her words to heart. If your grandmother is determined to marry you off to someone, as long as it's not a bad family, your father probably wouldn't refuse."
"Lián-er, let Mother give you some advice. Don't be stubborn in everything. We women don't have that much power. At home, we can only listen to our elders and men. If we don't, we won't only fall out with them but also make things difficult for ourselves in the future."
"If there's no way out and you must marry, it's better to go willingly than to be forced. It'll bring joy to the whole family, and you might even earn a good reputation, receiving more dowry."
After this conversation, Yu Lian understood. First, her grandmother wasn't seeking her opinion on the marriage but simply informing her. Moreover, she felt that those few days given for her uncles and father to inspect the match weren't genuine assessments. Her uncles, knowing their personalities, wouldn't really find her a decent match, while her father, focused on keeping a low profile for survival, would only dare to consider humble scholars. Amidst all the unsuitable candidates, the youngest legitimate son of the Duke of Ruyang stood out, becoming that bright and attractive green melon amidst the crooked and cracked ones.
Mrs. had probably already made up her mind to form an alliance with the House of Ruyang... Yu Lian felt a chill run down her spine at the thought.
Secondly, in this family, her marriage was actually decided by Mrs. and her father; neither she nor her mother had any say. Her father, being a filial son and the third son who relied on the family's protection, almost always obeyed Mrs. So, in the end, it was still Mrs. who held the final decision.
Yu Lian became more aware than ever that she could not stay in this household.
She would either be forced into marriage or risk her parents being expelled from the family.
After talking with her mother for a while, she asked her maid again to inquire about the youngest legitimate son of the House of Ruyang - who he was, his moral character, and whether he had concubines or chambermaids.
This was her last line of defense.
The young maid gave her mistress a curious glance but didn't bother to investigate. Instead, she replied directly, "Miss, since the new emperor ascended the throne and their eldest daughter was granted the title of Empress, the House of Ruyang has risen in status. Who in the entire capital doesn't know about them?"
"Their youngest legitimate son is known as the Little Tyrant, much beloved by Empress Dowager. It's said that he's received numerous imperial rewards this month. However, he does have a fondness for amusement and frequently visits places of ill repute."
"That's not necessarily a bad thing. He has some talent and skill in poetry and couplets. This servant heard that two of his poems were included in the recent Jinhua Poetry Collection, although... they were composed for a courtesan. This servant overheard someone recite a couplet, something about 'you return but I remain...' It made this servant feel a bit embarrassed."
Flipping through the memories of her original host, Yu Lian knew that men of the time tended to be licentious. Visiting a brothel or composing a poem for a courtesan was not uncommon. Such men were often labeled as charming talents by outsiders.
From this perspective, the legitimate youngest son of the Marquis of Ruyang, with his frivolous and arrogant nature, wouldn't be seen as a major issue in the eyes of his grandmother and others.
That night, there were only two days left until her former unfortunate fiancé was to be beheaded.
Seizing the opportunity to finally meet her father after dinner, Yu Lian mentioned Lady Elder's decision. Yu Sanlang frowned thoughtfully, "It's not the best option. Father still believes that a match with a commoner would be most suitable for you."
"If you marry up, and remain in the capital, there will be many unforeseen changes. If you wed into the Empress's family, you'll inevitably attend palace banquets, where you might encounter the Empress herself. If, by misfortune, you run into the Emperor and he questions you... there could be unintended consequences."
But her filial father's words seemed to hold as much weight as air. The previous night, he had shown clear disapproval, but after a conversation with Lady Elder the following day, he emerged, instructing Yu Lian to prepare for marriage.
Yu Lian: "..."
Lady Elder also issued an ultimatum, stating that in two days, the Marquis of Ruyang's residence would send a matchmaker to expedite the process. After exchanging the marriage certificates and completing the six marriage rites, the wedding could proceed, ideally before the end of the year.
Once the exchange of certificates and the completion of the six rites took place, there would be no turning back. Yu Lian was keenly aware of this.
If she were to back out of the marriage, she would have no grounds to stand on and would be considered unfilial. Furthermore, it would unnecessarily bring the Duke's residence into conflict with the powerful Marquis of Ruyang's family.
To escape this marital trap and resolve her current predicament, she needed to devise a solution that benefited both situations.
Moreover, she didn't have much time left!
What truly solidified Yu Lian's determination to escape was the scandal that broke out in the capital the following day. The Prince's Consort, the eldest princess's husband, had taken a concubine outside their marriage. The concubine's affair with another man became public knowledge, utterly humiliating the Prince's Consort's household.
Yu Niang had mentioned this gossip casually, but Yu Lian couldn't believe it. Even someone with the status and power of the Eldest Princess allowed her prince consort to keep a concubine?
In her heart, she firmly decided: she would never marry, neither into a humble nor a noble family. She needed to find a place for herself where she could survive and thrive.
Running away from home? That was impossible. In chaotic times, she might have been able to slip away amidst the turmoil, hide in some remote village. But now, with peace prevailing, every border was guarded, with soldiers checking identities and documents. One also needed money and bodyguards; otherwise, a vulnerable woman like her would go nowhere. She might leave the capital in the morning only to be caught and brought back by nightfall.
Thus, Yu Lian couldn't abandon her current identity and become an outcast. She couldn't run away or burden her innocent parents and younger brother. She had to leave honorably, preferably clearing the original owner's tarnished reputation. In this age where one's reputation mattered everywhere, a good name would facilitate her endeavors.
As the execution date of her former fiancé drew near, Yu Lian grew increasingly anxious. She knew that once his head hit the ground, the East Yuan Marquis' household's troubles would come to an end, and her grandmother would promptly send people from the Ruyang Marquis' residence.
She forced herself to calm down. She must remain calm. At such a crucial juncture, a single misstep could lead to a lifetime of regret. She couldn't compromise or let others control her blindly.
That night, she sat by the window, savoring tea under the moonlight, pondering over the circumstances of her transmigration and the information from the plot. Lost in thought, she accidentally shattered the teacup, alerting the young servant girl in the next room.
The servant girl hurriedly asked if everything was alright.
Yu Lian was taken aback for a moment before she replied, "It's nothing, just a broken cup. I'll clean it up tomorrow."
The moonlight, filtering through the window, illuminated the scattered fragments, their sharp edges reflecting a blinding glow. A sudden thought struck Yu Lian's mind.
Out with the old, in with the new!
Perhaps the very place where others saw only disgrace could be her sole refuge?
Chapter 8: Planning
◎ Her daughter is getting married tomorrow ◎
With the key to the situation finally understood, Yu Lian relaxed entirely, and sleepiness overtook her. There was still a battle to fight when dawn broke, so she needed to rest well. Thus, she went straight to bed.
She didn't sleep for long. Rising early the next day, she washed up and, as usual, went to pay respects to her grandmother and have breakfast.
Yu Lian had something to discuss with the matriarch, who also wanted to talk to her about the wedding. Under the piercing gazes of her other sisters, Yu Lian was once again left alone with her grandmother.
The matriarch held her granddaughter's hand affectionately and smiled. "Your father spoke with you yesterday? For the coming days, be more settled. Sew your wedding dress at home. I've heard from your mother that your needlework skills are not very proficient. Take this time to learn more while you're still in the manor. If you can occasionally make clothes for your husband in the future, I'm sure he'll be delighted."
"Grandmother, you seem to think that I haven't been sleeping well lately. Look, your lovely face isn't as radiant as before..."
Yu Lian interrupted her grandmother, looking at her earnestly with open eyes. "Grandmother, there's something I haven't told you... After much contemplation these past few days, I still can't put it aside. I want to share it with you and seek your advice."
The matriarch laughed and encouraged her to speak freely. After all, they were close grandmother and granddaughter, so what was there to hide?
Closing her eyes briefly, Yu Lian reopened them, locking gazes with her grandmother, and declared firmly, "Grandmother, I have long held a deep affection for Hua Ji. In this life, I desire only to marry him as his wife, not anyone else!"
The old lady could hardly believe her ears. Her pupils dilated for a moment, and she even doubted if her aged hearing was failing her. What was her granddaughter saying?
"Who do you love?"
Yu Lian declared loudly, "Grandmother, I love my former fiancé, Hua Ji, the heir of the East Yuan Marquis!"
The old lady was so furious that she almost couldn't catch her breath. Yu Lian promptly patted her back.
Shaking with anger, the old lady pointed at her. "What nonsense are you spouting?! He's going to be executed tomorrow, his head will roll, and there will no longer be a Hua Ji in this world! Now you're telling me that you love him and won't marry anyone else? You want to marry a dead man?!"
"You're not allowed to mention this matter or your so-called fiancé again. He's not your fiancé; forget about him as soon as possible. Stay away from the Hua family. If Grandmother hears you mention the name 'Hua' one more time, I'll confine you at home until your marriage! So you won't cause any trouble!"
Bowing her head, Yu Lian gathered her emotions, recalling the countless tragic movies and dramas she had watched in her previous life. She put herself in the shoes of a heartbroken heroine and shed tears on cue.
When she raised her eyes again, her limpid autumnal gaze shimmered with tears, making her appear all the more pitiful and vulnerable, eliciting sympathy. She held her grandmother's hand and pleaded while shedding tears, "Let me explain, Grandmother."
"Ever since two years ago when you chose this marriage for me, overlooking all the other nieces in the household, I've been overjoyed. Please don't laugh, but before that, I already had a favorable impression of Hua Ji. His reputation filled the capital, not just for me, but many other noble ladies also held him in high regard. I was thrilled. One Mid-Autumn Festival, I sneaked out with my maid and saw him riding past on horseback with his guards. At that glance, I fell in love with him. As his fiancée, I thought it was only natural to love him more, so I did, every day, until now, when my feelings have gone deep into my bones and can't be forgotten."
"After the East Yuan Marquis' household was implicated, I was deeply distressed. But then I realized that if I couldn't sever ties with Hua Ji, with his family's crimes and their relationship with the Emperor, I might endanger you, Father and Mother, and even our entire household. So, I endured my sadness and distress, went to the prison to humiliate him, and scolded him."
"I thought that by cutting ties, I wouldn't think of him anymore... When you mentioned marriage and suggested I wed another, I realized I can't let go of him. These past few days, I haven't been able to sleep well. Granddaughter doesn't know how to alleviate this heartache."
Yu Lian found herself surprisingly prone to tears in this body. She had only intended to shed a few for the act, but they kept flowing. Now, she frantically wiped her tears with a handkerchief, no longer needing to pretend.
Her sobs trembled with emotion.
The elderly matriarch felt it was absurd, but seeing her granddaughter's genuine feelings, she couldn't bear to scold her. Instead, she sighed, "Love is a hindrance! Love is such a hindrance!"
But could love alone sustain one?
In this entire world, which couple truly married solely out of deep affection? Didn't all families prioritize social standing and arranged marriages? Even the most passionate love would eventually fade when a man took concubines, and feelings would dwindle over time.
If not for her granddaughter's wisdom, filial piety, and consideration for the family's reputation, she might have resorted to stricter measures, confining her to prevent such thoughts.
With patience, she tried to reason, "Grandmother won't hide the truth from you. I want you to marry early to rid yourself of the title of East Yuan Marquis' former fiancée and sever ties with their family! It's for your own good, and secondly, our Wei Duke's Manor cannot afford to offend the Emperor. Yet here you are, rushing into danger. You tell me you love Hua Ji and can only marry him?"
"Tomorrow, Hua Ji will lose his head. You must put these thoughts aside and focus on sewing your wedding dress at home!"
Seeing her granddaughter's lack of response, the matriarch angrily poked her forehead, turning the tender skin red. Yu Lian, with her head lowered, sniffled and nodded in agreement.
The matriarch was reassured, assuming that it was merely a child's way of expressing her discontent, seeking comfort in her grandmother's presence. After all, Hua Ji would be executed the next day, and there would be no such person in this world. No matter how much her granddaughter admired or desired to marry him, it would be impossible to wed a dead man, would it not?
This was too absurd a notion, and the matriarch had never entertained such a possibility.
She did not share this conversation with anyone else and even warned Yu Lian not to mention their talk to anyone. Satisfied with her granddaughter's nod, she retrieved a pair of white jade bracelets as a soothing gesture, urging her to compose herself and prepare for her impending marriage.
"Leave the wedding arrangements to Grandmother. Would I ever do you harm?"
...
After leaving the matriarch's quarters, Yu Lian returned to her own courtyard.
The young maid was puzzled by the sight of her mistress's swollen, red-rimmed eyes. She fetched warm water, dampened a handkerchief, and offered it for Yu Lian to soothe her eyes.
She inquired gently if the matriarch had been difficult towards Miss.
Yu Lian shook her head, remaining silent. She sipped her water slowly, her thoughts dwelling on how she could indeed marry into the East Yuan Marquis's residence.
She had come to a realization last night. As the former fiancée of the East Yuan Marquis's heir, her status was delicate. It was a consensus among all that only through marriage could she escape this identity.
And the only way for her to leave the Wei Duke's residence and escape this current quagmire was through marriage. Reality wasn't a female empowerment novel; she couldn't escape nor establish herself independently as a single woman. Her only option was to marry a decent husband who wouldn't cause trouble.
Men nowadays were either frivolous or peculiar, with drawbacks in both humble and noble families. As a woman educated in modern values, she found it unacceptable to share a man with another woman.
So, what if she married a deceased man?
Her unfortunate former fiancé was about to lose his head. By marrying into his family at this time, she would find herself a free place to live, without having to deal with a husband in the future. Regardless of his character, how could a dead man control her?
This move would also help rehabilitate the ruined reputation of the original owner of her body. Being devoted was better than being heartless. Who could blame her for jumping into a pit for the sake of her beloved, even though she knew it was a trap?
No one could accuse her of kicking a man when he was down or being a vain and heartless opportunist! These accusations would have nothing to do with her, Yu Lian!
The timing of this marriage was crucial!
She had to marry into the family before her former fiancé was executed tomorrow, making a grand spectacle that would spread throughout the capital. This would ensure that the emperor and the entire world knew of her unwavering love and deep affection, thus distancing herself from any connection with the Wei Duke's household.
Her actions were driven solely by her immense love for her late fiancé. The thought of his beheading pained her deeply, so she would endure her heartbreak and enter his family, taking care of his elders, women, and children. Even in death, she would remain loyal and committed to him.
This was the profound love of a young maiden, unrelated to family or anyone else.
With careful maneuvering, not only would her family be spared, but perhaps she might even earn the admiration of talented poets who would compose verses in praise of her deep sentiments. Her reputation would be more than just untainted – it would shine like rose gold!
The emperor would have no reason to vent his anger on the Wei Duke's household, nor would he target her...
Satisfied with her million-dollar intellect and adaptability, Yu Lian felt that even with poor luck, she could rely on her wits and acting skills to survive.
She spent a full hour and a half contemplating and rehearsing every detail of her plan for the next day. She visualized everyone's reactions and her own performance, refining her strategy until she felt ready. Only then did she join her mother for lunch.
During the meal, Yu Niang studied her daughter intently. Yu Lian asked what was on her mind.
Her mother seemed lost in thought before responding, "For some reason, I feel that if I don't look at you enough now, I might not see you as often in the future." She shook her head and sighed. "Perhaps your grandmother has already arranged a marriage for you and insists on an early wedding. Your mother can't help but feel reluctant to let you go."
Yu Lian held her mother's hand, gazing into her eyes earnestly. "Mother, no matter what happens, I will always be your daughter, and you will forever be my mother. You, Father, and my brother will always be my family. No matter where I am, I will always care about you all. I want you to take good care of yourselves and live happily."
"Should any issues arise, consult Grandmother, but if it involves a conflict with Uncle's family over interests, make your own decisions. Grandmother prioritizes the entire Wei Duke's household, and though she doesn't play favorites, since Uncle inherited the title, he is most important to her..."
Yu Niang squeezed her daughter's hand, smiling fondly. "What are you talking about, silly girl? It's as if you're getting married tomorrow. Don't worry; you'll remain in the household for quite some time. Even if matchmaking begins soon, the earliest you'd wed would be around the Mid-Autumn Festival. Why think about such things now? Mother feels uneasy hearing this."
Yu Lian smiled but didn't reply.
Her mother would learn of it the following day – that her daughter was to be married off.
She would even publicly sever all ties with the Wei Duke's Estate before the entire city, ensuring she wouldn't implicate them.
Chapter 9: Marrying Him
◎Vibrant Crimson Attire◎
After lunch, Yu Lian had no time to idle away the afternoon.
Having spent a long time in the professional world, she knew one thing well: before any action, provisions must come first. This applied to both battles and leaving home – wealth was always paramount.
She locked herself in her room, counting her dowry.
Ever since the engagement two years ago, the original owner's family had been preparing her dowry, which had since been augmented with various items. The major pieces were stored in the warehouse, locked away by her mother, but the silver banknotes were kept in her own chest, pressed beneath her embroidered wedding dress.
She was about to stage a grand drama and sever ties with her family. It would be neither convenient nor appropriate to parade her dowry openly. Thus, carrying the silver notes was the most suitable option.
Given the urgency of the situation, it wasn't fitting to send someone to sell off possessions.
Yu Lian carefully selected some valuable and attractive jewelry, filling a small box with them. She then placed two thousand taels of silver notes into the inner pocket of her clothing, securing it tightly to prevent loss.
Based on current prices, one tael of silver could buy a bundle of rice. Assuming the daily sustenance level for an ordinary citizen was a hundred copper coins, these two thousand taels would sustain her for twenty thousand days, or fifty-four years, if she lived alone.
Yu Lian reckoned that given the average lifespan back then, this sum was sufficient for her to live comfortably until the end of her days.
Of course, this was assuming there were no additional expenses. If she were to purchase property, two thousand taels wouldn't go very far.
According to local custom, good fortune came in pairs. For ordinary families, a daughter's dowry might consist of as little as two taels or two hundred or two thousand copper coins. For the nobility, it could range from two hundred to two thousand taels, while the most elite families would bestow twenty thousand taels.
This was the norm.
On the wedding day, elders from the family would contribute additional funds as a final touch to the dowry. This was typically the highlight, often resulting in a multiplication of the initial sum in silver notes.
Unfortunately, Yu Lian wasn't so fortunate. If she could avoid infuriating the elder matriarch tomorrow, that would be an accomplishment in itself. The thought of a dowry was out of the question.
Yet rather than spending the rest of her life engaging in domestic feuds with a man and his harem, she would prefer to forego these dowry riches, clutching instead two thousand taels of silver, and escape to live a carefree and unbounded existence far from the palace intrigue.
Under such circumstances, she couldn't embark on this journey alone. Her former betrothed's family was the ideal partner for shared living and her best source of protection.
As the saying goes, "A mountain need not be high if it is home to immortals." Similarly, "A marriage need not be perfect if it provides a home!"
After packing a few sets of clothes and shoes, she found the bundle surprisingly light.
That evening, during the family dinner, Yu Lian conversed with her father and younger brother. She particularly pulled her brother aside for a serious talk. Children weren't as perceptive, and after listening, he simply said he understood and asked his sister for candy. At his age, he was losing his baby teeth, so his parents forbade him from eating sweets.
Knowing that she would depart the next day, Yu Lian secretly stuffed his pockets with candies, instructing him to save them and savor them slowly. Finally, she patted his cheek, reminding him to take good care of their parents and not to misbehave.
Before leaving her parents' courtyard, she turned back for a glance, smiled, and then departed.
Should she have transmigrated into a younger version of the original owner and been able to remain at home without all these intricacies, she would have been more than willing to become a genuine part of this family, living together harmoniously with them.
In the end, fate had other plans.
Yu Lian strolled back to her courtyard at a leisurely pace. She stood before the entrance, gazing at the moon and taking two deep breaths before retiring to her room for the night.
Tomorrow, it would all begin.
The course of her future life would depend on how she performed the next day.
The following morning, Yu Lian proceeded as usual to pay her respects to the matriarch in her courtyard. Amidst a barrage of veiled taunts and ridicule from her fellow sisters, she maintained a composed smile and gracefully endured the ritual with humility.
The execution of her former fiancé was scheduled for the third hour of noon; typically, he would be escorted from the prison an hour beforehand, traversing nearly half the capital on the route to the execution ground.
Yu Lian calculated the time precisely. At the appointed moment, she sat before a bronze mirror, inserting a small white flower on one side of her hair and a crimson phoenix-shaped hairpin on the other.
The stark contrast between red and white was striking.
Applying a crimson tint to her lips, she wore a vibrant red wedding dress. Despite the oddity of the white blossom atop her head, her face's beauty remained impeccable.
She blinked, and a tear rolled down her cheek.
A subtle curve graced her lips as she lifted her skirt and stepped out with a small bundle in tow.
By now, her betrothed should have been paraded through the streets in chains, awaiting execution.
The day was unusually sunny, and the capital city bustled with activity.
It had been over a month since the new emperor ascended the throne and granted amnesty to the world. Yet, Hua Ji, the former heir of the East Yuan Marquis, was the sole exception. Sentenced to death, he was also the first to lose his head under the new reign. His execution day was a sensation throughout the city; virtually every idle citizen flocked to witness the spectacle.
Hua Ji, the erstwhile renowned heir of the East Yuan Marquis, was known far and wide. Even illiterate commoners in the capital had heard tales of his exceptional brilliance. From an early age, he displayed extraordinary talent in both literature and martial arts, outshining all his peers. He was a nightmare for the privileged children of the city, a constant reminder of their parents' aspirations for them.
Not only was he exceptionally talented, his conduct and speech were equally commendable, and his appearance was unparalleled, resembling a graceful orchid or a noble cypress tree, earning him countless admirers.
Scholars often lamented, "Such a refined gentleman, Hua Ji, with a tenth of the world's talent, he possesses eight parts."
Born into an illustrious family, endowed with prodigious talent, and incomparably handsome, he had garnered praise from prominent scholars since childhood. Upon entering the imperial court, he swiftly gained influence, becoming a trusted confidant of the former emperor. In concert with his father, they held sway over the realm, both in literary and martial affairs.
Before the calamity befell the East Yuan Marquis's residence, he was universally regarded as a brilliant luminary with limitless potential, a revered figure to the common folk. Now, however, he was shackled within a prison cart, clad in the ashen garb of a condemned man, publicly paraded through the city in humiliation.
For the common people, this was their first encounter with someone who had previously existed only in legends. Hence, upon hearing that it was the day of the East Yuan Marquis's heir's execution, they flocked in groups to witness the spectacle.
Curiosity piqued, one wondered – who was this East Yuan Marquis's heir? Was he truly as captivating and enigmatic as rumored?
And how would this heavenly-born noble, having fallen from grace, react to his current predicament?
"Here it comes! The execution cart is arriving!
As the carriage trudged along, vast crowds of commoners lined the streets, following closely, voicing their concerns, and engaging in heated discussions.
In the midst of the commotion, a figure stood within the dilapidated blood-stained cart, amidst the throngs of people.
Dressed in the executioner's attire, which was originally white but now stained a dull gray from dirt, his sleeves and the chest area on his back bore streaks of blood, clearly indicating prior torture.
Yet, he stood tall and straight, his phoenix-like eyes gazing ahead. Unperturbed by the surrounding crowd's whispers and gazes, he remained motionless.
Despite his current plight, the elegance and demeanor exuding from him were those of a refined gentleman.
His extraordinary beauty captivated onlookers, drawing a barrage of flowers and handkerchiefs thrown at him by young wives, even aunts and maidens, accompanied by excited screams.
One might mistake this scene for the procession of a noble prince or aristocrat.
The soldiers in charge of the escort couldn't help but smile; the name Hua Ji, son of the East Yuan Marquis, had long been ingrained in the hearts of the people.
The assembled crowd soon realized that the Prince of East Yuan was not the only one to be punished that day. Following behind were two more prison carts, upon which stood a man of middle age and a younger one. The younger individual appeared to be around the same age as the Prince of East Yuan and bore a striking resemblance to the older man, suggesting a father-son relationship.
Soon someone with knowledge of the matter told the common people, "My cousin who is an official in the Yamen said that the father and son were corrupt officials. He and his son were the former Ministers of the Ministry of Revenue. After the current emperor ascended the throne, someone exposed the father and son to him. According to theAs a rule, greed will not be forgiven, so today I will be executed together with Dongyuan Hou Shizi, so it's good that we can go on the road together, so we won't be alone on the road to hell."
"Hahaha, my good friend, you speak wisely!"
"Corrupt officials pilfer the Emperor's wealth, they plunder the hard-earned money of ordinary folk. How can they be compared to the heir of East Yuan Marquis? They are not worthy to even hold his shoes! I advise all of you not to worry yourselves with matters beyond your station while enjoying meals at others' expense."
"Do you see the slightest hint of misery or loneliness in the East Yuan Marquis's heir? In my eyes, he possesses profound depths and grandeur, qualities beyond our common understanding."
"Nonsense! No matter how extraordinary or noble one is, their head will still roll today. Do you think Yama, the king of the underworld, would reattach your head and grant you a second chance just because you were once of high status?"
The man in the prison cart had been trained in martial arts since childhood, with keen senses and sharp hearing. Upon catching these words, the corners of his lips lifted slightly, a hint of amusement glinting in his dark, starry eyes.
Yet, his demeanor was as cold as frost, exuding a murderous aura.
While the cart was still far from the execution ground, a major incident occurred at the Duke's residence!
Yu Lian's unconventional exit had already alarmed the servants along the way. Her personal maid, startled, chased after her, asking why she was dressed like this.
Yu Lian hurriedly walked out, holding up the hem of her bright red dress. The servants of the Duke's residence whispered and gossiped, all assuming that the sixth miss had lost her mind!
Why would she wear a wedding gown if she wasn't mad?
The commotion quickly drew the attention of all the masters of the Wei Duke's residence.
Supported by her two daughters-in-law, the matriarch rushed over, followed by a group of young misses and concubines. Even the young masters studying in the front courtyard were startled, promptly rushing to see what was happening.
The elderly lady cried out for Yu Lian to stop, demanding an explanation for this bizarre situation!
"In the bright daylight, why are you behaving so wildly, Yu Lian? If you don't stop and give your grandmother an explanation, I'll severely punish you!"
As she shouted, she called for maidservants and nurses to restrain Yu Lian.
However, Yu Lian's steps were swift, and for a moment, no one could catch her. It was only the old lady's fault for arriving too late; it was now too late to stop her.
At this moment, Yu Lian's mother, Third Lady Yu, rushed over with her youngest son. Seeing her daughter in such a state, she nearly fainted from shock. What on earth was she doing?
"Yu Lian, Yu Lian..."
Panicked, she could only whisper soothingly, "Stop quickly, don't let Mother and your grandmother worry."
Yu Lian didn't turn back. With reddened eyes, she walked to the main entrance and stood on the steps. Facing everyone in the mansion, she lifted her head high and straightened her chest. Her bright red wedding dress accentuated her snow-white skin, making her look like a goddess. She bowed deeply three times to everyone, then turned to face the old lady and knelt down heavily.
With tear-filled eyes, she looked up and declared loudly, "Grandmother, I have long been smitten with my betrothed, Hua Ji. Since our engagement, I have secretly rejoiced every day. I had hoped to enter his family and marry him as his wife by this year's Mid-Autumn Festival, to spend our lives together. But who could have foreseen this accident? Ever since my husband was imprisoned, I've tossed and turned through each night, suffering bitterly. Yet, I was forced to distance myself from him, doing all sorts of heartless things that deeply wounded him. Today is the day of my husband Hua Ji's execution. After much thought and unbearable pain, I cannot bear to part from him, to let go. I wish to join him in death!"
"However, while my husband departs, his family, with their elders, women, and children, remain embroiled in strife. I have already broken his heart; therefore, I shall marry into his family today, becoming his wife! I will help care for his family, so he may rest in peace beneath the earth..."
As she spoke, tears trickled down her cheeks like dewdrops, painting her peerlessly beautiful face with a galaxy of stars. The onlookers were momentarily transfixed, none daring to intervene or reprimand her.
Her affection was so profound, and her determination so unwavering!
Yu Lian cupped her hands before her forehead and bowed deeply, pounding the ground three times without hesitation. Despite her hand shielding her brow, her delicate skin still flushed red from the impact.
"Grandmother, Father, Mother, please fulfill my heart's desire. He is about to leave. If Lian'er cannot wed him today, I would rather take my own life here and now, to be with him!"
The servants were stunned. Sixth Miss... was such a devoted lover?
They had misunderstood her all along.
Turned out, the young lady's apparent indifference was born of love, and her inability to be indifferent was also due to love. That's why after the heir of the East Yuan Marquis suffered his misfortune, she had humiliated him, hoping to forget him but failing to do so.
With the East Yuan Marquis heir facing execution today, she could not bear to be indifferent. Thus, she donned her wedding attire, resolutely left home, and married him.
The matriarch was so enraged that she nearly fainted on the spot. She shouldn't have trusted this girl. She should have confined her in her chamber the moment she showed that notion, not allowing her to step out even an inch!
She wouldn't have let this girl degrade herself or act recklessly!
She pointed at Yu Lian, her fingers trembling with shock and anger. "Do you know what you're doing, Sixth Sister? You want to marry a dying man? You're so young, and from the House of a Duke. You're going to be a common widow?!"
"Kneel and apologize to me, then go to your room for reflection. Kneel in the small shrine for seven days. Only when you realize your mistake can you come out!"
As she spoke, she instructed her servants to seize Yu Lian.
Tears streamed down Yu Lian's face again. She gazed imploringly at her grandmother and mother.
"Grandmother, Mother, if you don't let me marry today, I won't be able to live after this day. Even if you confine me, what can you do? If one is determined to die, there are countless ways!"
"Today, before all our elders, siblings, and parents, I, Lian'er, kneel to apologize. When Father returns home, please tell him on my behalf that it's Lian'er who has wronged you. I've left a letter for Father, on the desk in his study."
With that, she waved her hand. A rooster, seemingly appearing out of nowhere, crowed loudly as it strutted over with its non-functional wings. Yu Lian picked up the rooster and walked out without looking back.
Seeing this scene, the servants, somehow touched, suddenly found it amusing but dared not laugh. They could only suppress their laughter, shaking their shoulders uncontrollably.
At the entrance, Yu Lian stood, her eyes on the gatekeepers. They didn't dare move, for they couldn't open the door for the sixth miss without the old madam's permission.
Holding the rooster with one hand, Yu Lian used the other to push one side of the gate open. Unsatisfied with the look, she pulled the other side open as well, which proved quite heavy. She almost lost her composure as the devoted and desperate lover.
As the grand gates swung open, a crowd of onlookers had already gathered outside. The commotion from the Duke's residence was so loud that even passersby on the other side of the high walls could hear it. Yu Lian had deliberately spoken loudly, and with the unbarred walls, it was easy for others to overhear.
Upon seeing the gates part, a goddess-like beauty stood at the entrance, dressed in a vibrant red wedding gown. Her eyes were slightly reddened, indicating recent tears, and her voice held a hint of hoarseness. She stood tall at the entrance before stepping out and kneeling once more towards the inner courtyard.
This time, she didn't use the back of her hand to touch her forehead but instead struck the ground with her actual head.
After three solid knocks, she lifted her head.
Yu Lian's mother, Third Lady Yu, was already weeping uncontrollably. Seeing her daughter's swollen and bleeding forehead, she couldn't help but cry out, calling her daughter by her pet name, "Lian'er."
Why must she endure this? Why must she suffer like this?
If she liked Hua Ji, why didn't she confide in her mother? Even if she couldn't help, she didn't wish to see her daughter go through such torment. Since ancient times, great wisdom often brings pain, and deep emotions don't guarantee longevity. For her daughter to keep it all locked up inside for so long without revealing a single word showed just how much pain and suffering she was enduring.
If not for that damned husband-to-be's execution today, she might still be bottling it all up, too scared to speak, unable to speak.
No wonder she had been evading marriage these past few days, saying neither humble nor noble families suited her. She had wondered why her daughter was suddenly so picky when she had never expressed concern about concubines before. Now, it was clear that her heart was already taken, leaving no room for anyone else.
The more she thought, the more her mother's heart ached. Poor child, she was neither the lady of the house nor held an imperial title, thus having no say in family matters. She could not intervene on her daughter's behalf except by allowing such an extreme measure for her to marry her beloved and escape her grandmother's arranged marriage.
As Lady Yu the Third wept for her daughter, Yu Lian, with a hoarse yet resolute voice, declared, "Grandmother, I sever ties with Father and Mother, as well as with the Wei Duke's residence, today. Grandson is neither loyal nor filial, and I am deeply ashamed."
After saying this, she bowed in respect, then rose and turned to bow again towards the outside. By now, the entrance of the Wei Duke's mansion was surrounded by a crowd, all eager to witness the spectacle. There were passersby, street vendors, and even servants and stewards from neighboring prominent households who had come to watch.
On this rare occasion of the East Yuan Marquis's heir being put to death, most people had flocked to witness the spectacle, and yet a considerable crowd had still gathered here. As Yu Lian turned around, a gasp of astonishment rippled through the onlookers.
A single crimson droplet of blood trickled down from her forehead, while a teardrop of transparency rolled down her cheek. Adorned with a white pearl flower on one side of her head and a red pomegranate hairpin on the other, she appeared to be a picture of contrasts - one side pure as snow, the other deep as rubies. This dichotomy evoked an inexplicable sense of pity and awe.
Bowing to the crowd, Yu Lian rose and declared in a loud voice, "Today, before all of you, I, Yu Lian, sever my ties with the Wei Duke's residence. Any actions I take from this day forward will have no connection to the Wei Duke's household! I implore you, in pity for my husband-to-be who is about to meet his end, bear witness to this."
The spectators hurriedly waved their hands, urging her not to kneel anymore.
A weeping elderly woman said, "Good child, don't cry anymore, and please don't kneel. The sorrow of a lovesick soul is the most profound. In my long life, I've never seen a woman as deeply emotional and resolute as you. My dear child, you've endured too much..." Being betrothed to one's beloved was a joyous matter, but to have tragedy befall her fiancé just before their marriage, forcing her to endure such pain and, on the day of his execution, join his family in such a decisive manner - how heartbreaking, how profoundly moving!
The elderly lady was so moved that tears streamed down her face, rendering her unable to continue her words, save for repeatedly urging the girl not to kneel anymore.
The other onlookers, too, were deeply affected and chimed in with comforting words, vowing to bear witness to this scene.
Yu Lian offered a gentle smile.
She stood up and, gazing in the direction of the Duke's residence where her grandmother and mother were, said, "My husband is set to face the execution ground today. He is still young, leaving behind a family of the aged, women, and children. I, Lian'er, feel the pain acutely, and thus, I bid farewell to my grandmother, mother, and all my elders and siblings!"
With that, she embraced the rooster and descended the steps without looking back.
Her vibrant red attire contrasted beautifully with her unparalleled beauty.
The only anomaly was the chirping rooster in her arms.
The onlookers instinctively cleared a path for her.
Chapter 10: Gathering
◎ Rush to the Wei Duke's residence for some excitement! ◎
Among the crowd escorting the prisoner carriage, ordinary folks were discussing the East Yuan Marquis's heir, with aunties, wives, and maidens screaming over his handsomeness. Suddenly, a few voices pierced through the chatter, "Hurry to the entrance of the Wei Duke's mansion for the spectacle! You'll miss it if you're too late!"
"What's going on? Be more specific!" someone grabbed the messenger, a burly man.
The man grinned widely, "It's quite an oddity today. The East Yuan Marquis's heir is being escorted to his execution, to lose his head at noontime. Yet, his former fiancée, the third daughter of the Wei Duke's family, dressed in a wedding gown, wearing red and white, a mix of festivity and sorrow, is bidding farewell to the family matriarch and elders, kneeling before them with a rooster. With tears streaming down her face, she declares her intention to sever ties with the Wei Duke's family and asks all of us to witness it!"
His loud voice, amplified by his eagerness to deliver the news, echoed throughout the vicinity. Someone quickly asked, "Explain yourself. Why is she in a wedding dress and holding a rooster while cutting ties with her family? How does this relate to the East Yuan Marquis's heir? Is she out of her mind?"
Recalling the scene he had just witnessed, the man couldn't help but feel sympathy for her. She was too pitiful, a victim of fate's cruel joke!
He sighed, "We all know that the East Yuan Marquis's heir was her betrothed. Today, he faces execution, separating them forever. How could she not be heartbroken? Lately, there have been whispers in the capital about how pitiful the East Yuan Marquis's heir is, sentenced to death after his troubles. People said his fiancée humiliated him when he was down, making it known throughout the city. But who knew? She loved him deeply, and that's why she acted in such a desperate manner."
"As a vulnerable woman, she didn't want to burden her family, so she chose this path to distance herself from him. To force herself to forget him, she deliberately went to shame him, doing everything possible to seem heartless. But her love runs deep; how could she simply cut it off? Today, as the East Yuan Marquis's heir faces his execution, her undying love aches unbearable. She put on her wedding dress, embracing the rooster, as if marrying into the East Yuan family – or rather, not anymore. They've all been demoted to commoners, living in such disgrace... Even a man like me, hearing this, can't help but be moved to tears!"
"Many have gathered outside the Wei Duke's residence, and most have been reduced to tears. We thought such devoted women only existed in plays, but seeing her today, we realize that the sixth daughter of the Wei Duke's family surpasses even the most touching performances!"
If he were not a man and restricted from shedding tears, the giant would have wept in admiration for such devotion.
With a tinge of envy, he commented, "In my opinion, the East Yuan Marquis's heir is not only pitiable, but he is the most fortunate man in the world. He has a fiancée who loves and cares for him deeply, willing to marry into his impoverished family even if he were on his deathbed. What could be more fortunate than that?"
Others remained unconvinced. "Stop exaggerating. The Sixth Miss of the Wei Duke's Manor was recently notorious. Her reputation is terrible – she's disloyal, materialistic, and it's known throughout the capital. Even though the East Yuan Marquis's heir committed treason, her eagerness to further humiliate him is despised. How could she be as virtuous as you claim?"
The giant glared at the skeptic fiercely. "Didn't I just say she had her reasons? She was heartbroken and tormented by love, leading to today's actions. Regardless, the East Yuan Marquis's heir will lose his head today, and his family will lose their titles and positions, becoming mere commoners. The Emperor is already lenient not to hold a grudge against them. What future prospects do they have? In such circumstances, she still chooses to leave her family and marry into his. How could this not show her profound love for the East Yuan Marquis's heir?"
"Which family has a daughter so foolishly devoted? Tell me, I'll sell everything and send a grand eight-carriage procession to marry her!"
He also recited to the crowd, "This Sixth Miss struck her forehead until it bled, each blow sincere and unwavering. With blood streaming down her face and tears falling, she said that her husband-to-be was to be executed that day. She wished to follow him, but alas, her husband left behind elderly dependents, weak women, and children with no one to care for them. Filled with sorrow and compassion, she had no choice but to carry on living to assist him in looking after his family!"
"I've lived this long, and it's the first time I've seen such a passionate and resolute woman. Alas, she has a poor fate. Sigh!"
Another person chimed in, "If you want to witness the spectacle, hurry up. I just came from there; she's now kneeling every ten steps to bid farewell to the Wei Duke's Manor, heading to the East Yuan Marquis's residence."
Amidst the murmurs, some, despite their skepticism, couldn't resist the curiosity and dashed towards the street leading to the Wei Duke's Manor. Fortunately, it wasn't far, and they still had time to catch the commotion.
They simply refused to believe that someone could be so devoted, disregarding all consequences!
The man on the prison carriage stood silently as the vehicle creaked beneath his feet. The whispers of the crowd seeped into his ears, making him clench his fists without realizing it.
In his starry eyes, a tempest raged.
Suddenly, the sky darkened. It had been a bright morning, but now the colors of the day shifted abruptly! Thunder rumbled, catching both soldiers and civilians off guard, followed by a downpour that drenched everyone in an instant.
The crowd began to disperse towards the shelter of the streets, causing chaos.
Just then, a flurry of arrows shot out, catching the guards and people off their guard. They scrambled to defend themselves.
The situation grew even more chaotic, filled with screams. Amidst the turmoil, a group of black-clad figures emerged, abducting two individuals simultaneously - one was the heir of the East Yuan Marquis, while the other was the son of the former corrupt Minister of Revenue.
The soldiers sensed trouble. The leading official gave a stern command, and the soldiers risked injury to intercept the East Yuan Marquis's heir's carriage. They had been instructed repeatedly to ensure they witnessed the execution, and any mishap, such as his rescue, would not just cost them their positions – it could very well cost them their lives.
Fortunately, fate seemed to favor them. The assailants seemed to have mistaken the son of the former Minister of Revenue for their actual target, due to their similar appearances. As a result, they kidnapped both, only to abandon the East Yuan Marquis's heir halfway through their escape. However, they reacted promptly, shooting arrows that killed the abducted person on the spot.
With his wrists still bound in shackles and his feet chained, the East Yuan Marquis's heir, despite his martial prowess, was unable to break free. The soldiers reloaded him onto the carriage and hastened their journey to the execution ground.
Rain or not, a death sentence would not be pardoned simply because of weather!
The soldiers heaved a sigh of relief but couldn't help but think that it was a pity if the commoners' words were true about the Sixth Miss of the Wei Duke's Mansion.
The street in front of the Wei Duke's Mansion became increasingly crowded as the news spread like wildfire, drawing more and more people to witness the spectacle. To marry her fiancé on the day of his execution—how deep was her love? How profound!
This was far more thrilling than any drama!
Yu Lian stepped down from the steps in front of the Wei Duke's Mansion, one by one. Instead of leaving, she descended the stairs and walked towards the East Yuan Marquis's residence. At every tenth step, she knelt and bowed her head in earnest, without any pretense.
She didn't stop until she had knelt for a full hundred meters.
Standing there, she turned her head to look in the direction of the Wei Duke's Mansion. Nobody came out to see her off, but she could hear her mother's wailing, calling out "Lian'er" amidst sobs.
Presumably, her grandmother had flown into a rage and forbade her from leaving.
She curved her lips, wiping away the tears at the corner of her eyes. The blood on her forehead had already stained half of her face. Suddenly, a young wife rushed out with reddened eyes, holding a handkerchief to wipe Yu Lian's face. Blushing, she ran back, standing in place and shouting, "It was the Marquis of East Yuan's heir's good fortune in his previous life to have a fiancée like you. Take good care of yourself."
Her words ignited the emotions of everyone present. They had watched her kneel and move forward step by step, looking back every ten paces, bleeding and weeping. Their hearts ached for her.
So they gathered around, offering their blessings.
In this very moment, no one could persuade her to turn back, to avoid the foolish decision of marrying a dying man, or to stay away from the dilapidated East Yuan Marquis household. All understood it was an ill-fated choice. Still, how could the material possessions and worldly fame compare to the depth of love?
Yu Lian smiled, nodding at the common folk on the street.
She gave one last, profound glance at the Wei Duke's residence before straightening her spine and stepping forward, one by one.
From this instant on, she had no ties with the Wei Duke's household.
She embarked on a journey that belonged solely to Yu Lian, a future filled with uncertainties.
Regardless, she had emerged victorious in today's battle.
Just then, thunder rumbled, followed by a sudden downpour.
Amidst the rain, her wedding attire drenched, the grime on her small face washed clean by the rainwater, she maintained her upright posture, moving forward without hesitation, step by step, towards her husband's home.
The majority of the onlooking citizens remained, captivated by her figure. For years to come, this scene would be a topic of discussion among the people of the capital, even finding its way into theatrical plays and storytelling, spreading throughout the land.
The tale of the devoted lady from the Duke's residence, who, on the day of her fiancé's execution, knelt every ten steps in the pouring rain as a farewell to her birth family, then courageously entered that unstable abode alone...
In the capital, the elite resided in the eastern and northern districts. The Wei Duke's Mansion and the East Yuan Marquis's residence were actually not too far apart, separated by just two streets.
As Yu Lian walked, she was accompanied by a group of people who had spontaneously decided to escort her through the rain.
Upon reaching the East Yuan Marquis's residence, the grand gates were tightly shut. Furthermore, as it was Hua Ji's execution day, the house was draped in white, giving off an air of desolation.
An agitated passerby, upon witnessing this, rushed forward to knock on the door.
Someone inside asked, "Who is it? Our Hua residence is currently closed to visitors, we apologize for any inconvenience!"
The passerby was amused and shouted, "Open up! Your Lady Consort is here!"
Hehe, my friend and I both felt that the original title, "Villain's Eldest Concubine," sounded dry and unappealing. So, we're considering a title change, but we're indecisive. Please help me choose by voting with numbers! Thank you for your hard work, and here's a little reward! \(^o^)/~
1. "Villain's Eldest Concubine"
2. "My Wife's Love Runs Deep, I Cannot Betray Her"
1 "After My Husband's Pretended Death, I Was Forced into Profound Love"
2 "Establishing the Role of a Devoted Lover, Only to Find My Husband Faking His Death"
3 "The Villainous Eldest Daughter-in-Law's Passionate Love Without Return!"