Chapter 11: Unrequited Love
◎Finally, she entered the gates of the Hua residence.◎
At this very moment.
The East Yuan Marquis Manor was in chaos.
To be precise, it had been chaotic for half a month since the heir took all the blame and the entire family, from the oldest to the youngest, were released from prison. Since then, no one in the manor had had an easy time.
Despite the harsh conditions and perilous situation in prison, at least the entire family was together, offering each other support and comfort as they strategized. Now, Hua Ji was left alone in the dungeon awaiting execution, while they were living on borrowed time, powerless to do anything but watch him await his demise...
These past two weeks had been an excruciating torment for the Hua family. How could anyone sit idly at home, powerless to prevent their own son and grandson from meeting their end?
But the imperial edict could not be defied. The new emperor had ascended the throne, and the tide of power had shifted. No matter how powerful their family once was, defeat had reduced them to captives, fishes on the chopping block, awaiting their fate.
The room was dim, its windows shut, and the curtains drawn, exuding a gloomy and oppressive atmosphere. An old servant brought in a bowl of hot soup, urging, "You should at least have some nourishment. The heir wouldn't want to see you wear yourself out. Your guidance will be needed for the family's future."
She lifted the bed curtains, revealing an elderly lady with white hair, lying half on the bed with her brows lowered. "Have you arranged for someone to send wine and water to the execution site, to accompany Hua'er on his final journey?"
The old woman nodded, turning her face away to wipe her eyes discreetly.
"The gift has been sent, and the kitchen was asked to make the Prince's favorite Nine-Layer Cake. He loved the ones you made when he was younger, but he never dared to eat too much, always saying it wasn't appropriate for his position. You cared so much for the young prince that you'd personally cook a plate for him three or four times a month. He would then savor it slowly, making one plate last two or three days."
Upon hearing this, the old lady's heart ached. She wiped her eyes with a handkerchief. "But my body is no longer strong enough. I can't bear any more blows at my age. Now that he's leaving, taking the blame for the entire household so that our family can survive and carry on the lineage, yet here I am, unable to even make him a bowl of Nine-Layer Cake. Yee-ma, I regret it!"
"Why didn't I stop them, both father and son, from joining that struggle for the throne? Why didn't I try harder to persuade them? That royal seat is like the deepest abyss, adorned with the glittering allure of power. Little did they know that beneath the throne lies a bottomless hell. Touch it, and you'll be crushed to pieces!"
The Yee-pow consoled her, "The Duke and the young prince were forced into that position. Everyone from the previous emperor to all the officials pushed them. Who could have allowed them to step back? Even if they had, the previous emperor and the new emperor would still have been suspicious and wouldn't have let them off easily. The Duke and the young prince were simply unfortunate and betrayed by villains. Old Lady, don't blame yourself too much."
The old lady sat up, straightening her sleeves. With the Yee-pow's help, she got out of bed.
She sat down and slowly sipped her hot soup, but after two or three sips, she put it down, unable to swallow. Her heart ached continuously. If not for her concern for the future of the entire household, she might not have been able to hold on until now. She would have collapsed long ago.
Seeing her condition, the Yee-pow asked, "Shall I ask the kitchen for some pickles to stimulate your appetite?"
The old lady shook her head. "Forget it, I won't eat today. Just thinking about Hua'er..."
She paused before asking, "How is my child?"
Reminded of the Marquis and his lady, the townswoman said, "After the Marquis was released from prison, he fell ill. He seemed to be recovering a bit these past couple of days, but when he heard that the Crown Prince was being escorted to the execution ground today, his condition worsened. They even had a physician visit this morning."
"I wonder about my good-for-nothing daughter-in-law? Has she shown any care for them?"
The village elder fell silent for a moment before shaking her head. "Lady has been weeping bitterly for half a month now. Today, she fainted from crying and hasn't regained consciousness yet."
The elderly lady: "..."
Recalling her daughter-in-law's behavior, she sighed. Drinking her warm soup, she realized that with her son fallen ill and her daughter-in-law being useless, who else could the entire household rely on? Even if she was weak, she had to hold on.
She instructed, "Have you prepared wine, fruit, snacks, and the dishes that the heir loves the most?"
The village elder replied, "Don't worry, everything is ready."
"Then, what about the heir's memorial tablet?"
"It's all arranged..."
The elderly lady stood up, leaning on her cane, then sat down again. She shook her head and said, "No, my legs and feet still can't support me. I feel a lump in my throat, and it's very uncomfortable. After noon, when it's a quarter past twelve, immediately set up an incense altar in the yard so the heir will know that he can have one last meal at home before he departs. I'll muster the strength to send my grandson off one more time."
She glanced outside and wiped her eyes.
At that moment, a servant boy rushed in from the courtyard to report, "Matriarch, someone is knocking on the main gate and shouting, saying that the Prince's Consort is here to be wed today. I'm confused about what's happening because you previously instructed us to close the doors and not receive guests. I dared not open the gate without your permission..."
The elderly lady paused. "The Prince's Consort?"
She pondered for a while but could not recall anything. Hua'er had clearly not been married yet...
Poor thing, he had always been alone, never having found a confidante or sired any children... Thinking of this, the old lady's heart ached again. Her handkerchief was drenched, yet it was insufficient to soothe her sadness.
Elder Servant Yi seemed to remember something and said, "Have you forgotten that the Prince had once betrothed himself to a fiancée? She was the third daughter of the Wei Duke's residence, an esteemed daughter from a noble family. Yu Sanlang holds the lowest official rank with no title to his name. Logically speaking, his daughter would not have been a suitable match for our Prince. It was only through the influence of the late Wei Duke that the old matriarch of the Wei Duke's residence convinced you to give your consent. The marriage was originally planned for this autumn, but unfortunately, it met with..."
The elderly lady narrowed her eyes and thought, "Didn't they annul this marriage?"
After the new emperor ascended the throne, her entire family was hastily thrown into prison overnight. When they were released, the Wei Duke's residence informed them that the marriage was called off, and the Prince was to be executed. Their family was also demoted to commoners, leaving them in disarray. Back then, she did not dwell on it, as such was the cold reality of life.
Elder Servant Yi continued, "Later, the sixth young miss of the Wei Duke's residence even added salt to the wound by visiting the Prince in prison to tell him that he deserved his current plight. I was furious when I heard about it."
The elderly lady sighed. "Don't believe every rumor you hear. The Criminal Ministry's prison is heavily guarded; not even a mosquito can escape, let alone the words and actions of those inside. If she could enter, leave, and have her words spread throughout the capital, there must be something fishy going on."
The servant called out again, "Matriarch, what should we do? Should we continue to ignore them by keeping the gates closed, or should we open them and let them in?"
The matriarch was weak and exhausted; she had already drained her energy, so how could she muster the strength to walk all the way to the main gate? She instructed the elderly woman, Yi Po, to take some people to investigate.
She exhorted, "If... it's truly Miss Sixth from Duke Wei's residence, you must persuade her to return home. With our current situation, we mustn't hold up this young lady."
Yi Po agreed and quickly set off for the entrance.
By now, East Yuan Marquis's mansion gates were surrounded by curious onlookers, their voices buzzing with discussion. Some were even indignant. They had knocked on the door, but it remained unopened—what did that imply?
To them, Miss Sixth of Duke Wei's residence, a woman of principle and loyalty, was willing to marry into the Hua family during these challenging times. The Hua family should be grateful and promptly open their doors to welcome her, not put on airs.
Yu Lian remained calm. She could guess that the Hua residence was likely in chaos, and given her sudden and impulsive arrival, their delayed response was understandable.
The servant unlocked the gate, and Yi Po stood inside, peering out. She saw a woman in a red wedding dress, cradling a rooster, standing quietly.
Startled, Yi Po asked, "Are you Miss Sixth from Duke Wei's residence?"
Yu Lian nodded, and before she could speak, the onlooking crowd couldn't contain themselves anymore. They chimed in, "Your young master is so fortunate. His betrothed, the Sixth Miss from the Wei Duke's residence, is deeply devoted to him. Today, when he's facing execution, she is willing to forsake her family and the Wei Duke's house to marry into your family and take care of his dependents. Such a compassionate and loyal woman, yet you still delay her entry? How disrespectful!"
In this age, loyalty and affection were highly esteemed values that no amount of wealth or power could purchase. Yu Lian's actions undoubtedly embodied, if not surpassed, everyone's understanding of these two principles. Never before had such a scenario been seen, not even in the most daring theatrical scripts.
"Would I, if I were you, promptly welcome her in. If your Hu family is wise, you'll treat your young master well through her and cherish her, lest you betray the Sixth Miss's intentions."
"The Sixth Miss has endured much hardship to be here. She knelt all the way to bid farewell to her elders at the Wei Duke's residence..."
"I've witnessed true devotion today. No theatrical performance can match the Sixth Miss's unwavering love. Now that your Hu family has been demoted to commoners, and your young master faces execution, even ordinary families might hesitate to give their daughters away, let alone the daughter of a duke."
"Sigh, the world's most challenging devotion..."
Faced with the whispers and pointing fingers of the townsfolk, Erye understood the situation to a large extent. The impact on her was profound, leaving her in a daze for a long while.
It was the crowing of a rooster that eventually brought her back to reality. Gazing at the wound on the woman's forehead, she realized it must be genuine, a sign of great determination and resolve. Only with such strength of heart could one be so harsh on themselves.
According to the townswoman's sentiments, she was eager to hasten and welcome Yu Lian into the house. However, just moments ago, the elder lady had given her a solemn reminder. She sighed, "Why must you do this to yourself?"
It was well-known that the Emperor detested both the crown prince and the Hu family. With her resolute decision to enter alone on the day of the prince's execution, associating herself with the Hu family, it was unlikely that the Wei Duke's residence would continue to shelter her. What would become of her in the future?
Yu Lian gazed at the entrance, wondering if her husband had often passed through this very door in his youth, full of exceptional talent and boundless ambition, dressed in fine clothes and riding high-spirited horses. Later, as he held great power and mingled with the elite, had he ever imagined that one day he would leave this door behind, never to return?
Her gaze grew distant as a tear shimmered at the corner of her eye before falling.
The depth of emotion in her eyes was heart-wrenching.
The townswoman found herself unable to persuade Yu Lian to leave.
How could she dare?
How could she bear to say those words?
Ultimately, under the critical gazes of the chattering crowd, she stepped forward personally, respectfully lifting the long hem of Yu Lian's dress. Looking at the vibrant red of the festive scene before her and the white pearl flower adorning her hair, the townswoman's voice trembled slightly, "I'm sorry for what you have to endure."
Saying that, he offered his assistance to help her inside. Yu Lian stood still, bowing respectfully to the citizens who had spoken up for her before turning around slowly.
The onlookers could only catch a glimpse of her magnificent crimson silhouette as she finally entered the magnificent manor.
Moments later, the door creaked shut.
They remained where they were, unwilling to depart for a long while.
Chapter 12: Affection
◎Grandmother and granddaughter-in-law wept together in each other's arms.◎
The elderly lady had already been helped to sit in the main hall of her courtyard, awaiting news from the elder maid. She had expected to learn the reason behind the situation. Little did she anticipate seeing the elder maid supporting a bride, dressed in wedding attire, entering cautiously.
Confused, the grandmother wondered, Had the wedding ceremony already taken place? Why was it so hasty and informal?
But remembering Hua'er's actions today... she found herself at a loss for words.
Yu Lian walked to the center of the main hall and knelt down. "I, your granddaughter-in-law, have entered without invitation. I hope you, my revered ancestor, will forgive me." With that, she bowed her head, and before the elder maid could intervene, she watched with concern.
Addressing the grandmother, the elder maid said, "I overheard the townsfolk saying that the Sixth... Lady of the Wei Duke's House bowed and bid farewell to her family elders all the way here. Just look at her forehead; it's bruised from all the kneeling..."
The grandmother hastily motioned for Yu Lian to rise. "Good child, I know you value loyalty and affection, but please do not harm yourself. Your face is so beautiful—why endure such suffering?"
Yu Lian lifted her head, tears glistening in her eyes. "Grandmother, my heart aches unbearable today as my husband faces punishment. I wish I could join him, but knowing that he bore the guilt alone to protect our entire family, I understand that their safety is paramount to him. Thus, I beg your permission to take care of our loved ones in his stead, so he may rest assured even in his departure."
The old lady's nose twitched, and her eyes reddened. She never expected Hua Ji's fiancée to be such a devoted and loyal woman. It was just unfortunate for Hua Ji... Wiping her tears, she hurried forward to help Yu Lian up.
However, with her advanced age and recent series of shocks, she was merely holding on by a thread. As she tried to rise, she lost her balance, her vision darkening as she fainted.
Yu Lian quickly got to her feet, kneeling yet reacting faster than anyone else. She caught the old lady before she fell.
"Where is Grandmother's room? Take me there."
The elderly maid also hurried forward to assist, then led the way.
Relieved, she said, "Thankfully you reacted promptly. Madam's body couldn't have withstood a fall."
Yu Lian replied, "It was my duty." As they spoke, they had already supported the old lady into her room.
In truth, the old lady was still somewhat conscious, but her weakness prevented her from standing. After helping her onto the bed, Yu Lian offered her a sip of warm water and tucked the blanket around her. She reassured, "Rest well, don't overexert yourself. You've already exhausted yourself with worry. You mustn't burden yourself further. Take these days to focus on your health. Grandmother, I've heard that my husband was very close to you since childhood and was extremely filial. If he knew that you've been harmed by his situation, he would surely be worried and heartbroken."
The old lady lacked the strength to speak, appearing to have drifted into a deep sleep.
Yu Lian instructed the matron to summon a physician before sitting with the matriarch for a while longer. Only then did she rise to leave.
As the elderly lady heard her granddaughter-in-law depart, she sighed softly, "My dear husband, rest assured. I will take good care of them on your behalf."
A tear rolled down the corner of her eye.
Truly, fate can be so whimsical.
If she had known beforehand that her granddaughter-in-law was such an admirable woman and deeply devoted to Hua Ji, she would have insisted on bringing her into the family earlier, allowing the young couple to enjoy their lives together without getting entangled in the struggle for succession. Nothing mattered more than the peace and safety of their family. So what if they had to resign from official positions or give up power? Could it compare to Hua Ji's life? To Yu Lian's unwavering love?
But had she known before today, she would have dispatched someone to the Wei Duke's residence to stop Yu Lian from rushing into the Hua family's predicament.
Their once prosperous household was now dilapidated, stripped of titles and official ranks. Her father-in-law was ailing, her mother-in-law was useless, weeping daily without any solutions. With her own advanced age and limited strength, what could she accomplish? Why should a distinguished lady from the Duke's residence endure such turmoil?
What a foolish child, making a rash decision.
Why put herself through this?
It was unfortunate that Hua'er had stumbled upon such a wonderful fiancée, who offered him her heartfelt affection, only to be denied the fortune to enjoy it...
Would Hua'er be heartbroken if she knew? Would she still be so resolute, disregarding her own safety to shoulder everything?
A tear from the old lady's corner of the eye dampened her pillow as she slowly fell asleep, dreaming vaguely of Hua'er's return.
As the sky darkened, the old lady slept soundly until almost dawn. Since the family crisis and Hua'er's conviction, she had never slept so deeply. Upon waking, she felt disoriented, unsure of the current date. She vaguely recalled that yesterday, Hua'er's fiancée seemed to have come to their home, conversing with her and even weeping about her intention to care for her grandmother and parents.
She sat up, and the servant in the outer room, hearing the movement, entered with a bowl of warm water in one hand and a cup of tea in the other.
The old lady rinsed her mouth and allowed the servant to wipe her face with a warm cloth. She felt a bit more energetic, much better than the previous day.
As the servant prepared to leave to dispose of the water, the old lady stopped her. "Don't rush off just yet. Did Hua'er's fiancée come yesterday?" She half-believed she was still exhausted, dreaming.
The servant chuckled. "You must have been sleeping too deeply. Yesterday, the Lady Consort came alone to join our family, even paying respects to you as her grandmother. You were so thrilled that you tried to stop her, but unfortunately, you fainted due to your weak health. The Lady Consort stayed by your side for a while. When I managed to summon a physician who prescribed some medicine for you, she left."
"The physician said you have weakness in your qi and blood, caused by excessive worry and mental strain. He prescribed some calming and blood-nourishing medicine. If you rest well these few days and avoid further stress, you'll recover. Try not to dwell on sorrowful matters. Now that the Lady Consort is here, she will make things easier for you. You can truly relax."
The old lady pressed her temples, and the servant, noticing this, gently massaged them for her.
"Nanny, did that child... really enter the household? Was she settled in well last night, with proper food and drink?"
"Nanny, your concerns are unnecessary. The Lady Consort has genuine feelings for the Crown Prince. Since she stepped into our residence, she treats it as her own home. She didn't show any sign of being an outsider. After you fainted yesterday, she took charge of all the matters in the estate, organizing everything seamlessly. This old servant was truly astonished."
The elderly lady paused, "Where is she staying? In a guest room? That wouldn't be suitable... Given her sincere intention to join the family, we can't disappoint her."
Nanny chuckled, "Nanny, you weren't there yesterday. After the physician left, the Lady Consort changed her clothes and attended to the household chores until it was dark. When I offered to show her the rooms and let her choose which courtyard to stay in, she said, 'I'll live in my husband's former courtyard. He might come back at night, and I need to wait for him.'"
Nanny sighed, "The Lady Consort's devotion to the Crown Prince is unparalleled. This old servant was deeply moved. Last night, she rested in the Crown Prince's old courtyard and even slept in his room, without changing anything inside."
With a softening heart, the matriarch's gaze turned gentle and compassionate. Just as she was about to speak, she suddenly remembered something. "Did you offer incense for Hua'er yesterday, after noon, to send him on his way?"
"And the memorial tablet, after the incense was lit, it should be placed with our ancestors. He's young and of low rank, so it should be placed accordingly..." Recalling these, the elderly lady couldn't help but feel heartache. Her poor Hua'er, so young, with a devoted wife, yet they couldn't be together.
Nanny lowered her voice but still offered reassurance, "The Lady Consort took care of those arrangements. She personally lit the incense and carried the tablet back. Everything was handled properly, leaving no room for this old servant to assist."
"The Lady Consort also discovered some servants who planned to steal from the estate and escape during the chaos today. She had them apprehended and sent to the authorities. But alas, when they saw it was from our Hua Manor, they accused us of being traitors and refused to handle the case. I made the decision to sell them off without informing the Lady Consort, for fear of hurting her feelings."
"Back then, the Prefect of Chang'an wasn't even worthy of touching the threshold of our manor, and now he steps on people's faces with his arrogance. This old servant despises him. If only I knew martial arts, I would have gladly slapped that old face!"
The old madam was not focused on that. Her heart was filled with both sorrow and relief. She had fainted when her granddaughter-in-law entered the household, unable to make proper arrangements for her. However, Yu Lian managed everything without any panic, indicating not only her strong sense of loyalty and integrity but also her exceptional social skills and adaptability. Such composure rivaled even that of noble ladies from prominent families.
If Yu Lian had been someone with a more fragile temperament, she might have been frightened and distressed upon seeing Hua'er's unconscious state, abandoned alone while her in-laws were also indisposed.
The old madam was deeply satisfied and appreciative. If Hua'er had not encountered misfortune, how perfect would they have been as a couple, a match made in heaven?
She sighed and sat up.
In front of the dressing mirror, the old madam settled down. The housekeeper was about to comb her hair when a knock came from the door.
Then, Yu Lian's melodious voice echoed outside, "Has Grandmother woken up? It's Lian'er."
The old madam quickly turned around, beckoning, "Come in quickly, Grandmother is just having my hair done. It'll be done shortly."
Not showing any formality, Yu Lian entered and took the comb from the housekeeper. Gently, she started to comb the old madam's white hair, "You look much better this morning."
The old madam patted her hand affectionately, her face filled with love, "I did sleep much better. I don't know why, but I haven't had a good rest for over half a month. Yesterday, I slept from noon until now. I think it's because my granddaughter-in-law has come into our family. She's such a wonderful person, bringing me comfort and joy, allowing me to relax unconsciously."
Yu Lian smiled gently at the compliment, "How can that be? Yesterday, I asked the doctor to prepare some scented incense. These incense sticks have soothing and calming properties. Light them before you sleep every night, and you'll sleep soundly through the night with no headaches. Your spirits will improve greatly."
The old lady was delighted and praised her for her thoughtfulness.
It had been a long time since she had laughed so heartily. After the laughter subsided, she couldn't help but feel a tinge of melancholy.
Yu Lian said, "Grandmother, no matter what happens, you should smile more. I dreamed about my husband last night; he told me to take good care of you. He even said that if you don't cherish your own health, he won't acknowledge you as his grandmother."
The old lady held her hand tightly. "Really? You really dreamed about Hua'er?"
Yu Lian paused, "Yes, I did. He was wearing a dark green robe, still as handsome as ever."
Tears welled up in the old lady's eyes as she listened. Yu Lian quickly handed her a handkerchief to wipe her tears. "I've made you sad again."
"How could that be? I merely thought that if Hua'er knew to come back and visit you, she must also understand the depth of your affection. Yet, he had to forcefully enter the household, leaving behind such heartache. Grandmother can't help but feel pained when she thinks of this. Poor Hua'er, poor Lian'er, it's lamentable that fate has kept you two from being together indefinitely."
"It's Grandmother's fault, it's all Grandmother's fault!"
"No, it's Lian'er's fault. Lian'er isn't worthy of such happiness."
Listening to this, Yu Lian couldn't help but be reminded of her sorrows, and her eyes reddened. In the end, the grandmother and granddaughter-in-law embraced each other, weeping bitterly.
Village Elderess: "…"
After the tears had been shed, the relationship between grandmother and granddaughter-in-law seemed much closer. The old lady looked at her granddaughter-in-law with such tenderness that it could have melted ice. Even after all these years, she had never looked at her own daughter-in-law this way.
The old servant woman had served the matriarch her entire life and knew that she genuinely cared for the Crown Princess, truly loving this granddaughter-in-law.
Morning broke, and Yu Lian shared a breakfast with her grandmother. Afterward, the pair stepped out into the courtyard. The old lady looked up at the sky, which was overcast with no sign of the sun. Heavy clouds blanketed the sky, weighing heavily on people's hearts.
Yu Lian accompanied her grandmother for a stroll in the yard. However, the old lady soon asked her to return and rest. Yu Lian said she wasn't tired and expressed her intention to visit her parents, paying them respect by kneeling and serving them tea.
The old lady felt a sense of relief but still advised, "There's no rush to serve the tea. Now that you've entered our family, you're officially my Huá family's daughter-in-law, and that won't change. However, your father-in-law is currently bedridden and may not be able to receive your respectful gesture. As for your mother...sigh, she's naturally frail and can't handle too much. It's best not to visit her for now. When they both recover in a couple of days, I'll call them, and the three of us will accept your tea together. No need to kneel, my dear granddaughter-in-law. Your head injury hasn't fully healed yet; we don't want it to worsen."
Yu Lian didn't argue and agreed.
The old lady then sent her away. Once the granddaughter-in-law had left, she turned to the village elderess and asked, "Has the government informed us when we can retrieve the bodies?"
Chapter 13: Passing the Ordeal
◎Having Guarded Her All Night◎
In this dynasty, governance was based on benevolence and righteousness. There were specific regulations for capital punishment cases. After execution, the officials would take the body, sew it back together, and restore its dignity before returning it to the family – a gesture of "mercy."
Yi Po said, "No one has come to notify us yet, but they should arrive soon, perhaps no later than noon."
"That's good. This matter must be kept from Lian'er. I fear she might be deeply affected by the sight, and seeing Hua'er's body would only make her more sorrowful."
"Rest assured, Madam, I shall instruct my son to guard the entrance shortly. Should anyone bring news, he will intercept them, ensuring that Lady Concubine does not learn of it."
She paused and asked, "Yesterday, I took the liberty to welcome Lady Nascent Prince into our household, expecting you to scold me for it. To my surprise, you seem to quite favor her."
The elder matriarch said, "Lian'er is a good child, and I naturally adore her. However, if possible, I would have preferred that she didn't make the foolish decision to marry into this household. Now that the situation is irreversible, she has bid farewell to the Wei Duke's Manor and publicly severed ties with her birth family. There's no turning back."
This child has endured much emotional distress. She is devoted to Hua'er but cannot burden her family because of it. Thus, she chose this path. Now that she has entered our Hua residence, where else could I send her back to? The Wei Duke's manor, to avoid suspicion and the emperor's displeasure, would no longer take her in. She didn't consider any escape route when making this decision. If I were to send her away now, what kind of person would that make me? How heartless would I have to be? If Hua'er's spirit watches from above and sees how I treat his wife, he would surely quarrel with me, his grandmother.
With that, the elder retired to her quarters but, still uneasy, added a few more instructions: "Hua'er's memorial shrine should be established in the Green Bamboo Garden where he used to practice martial arts and study calligraphy. It's situated far from his bedroom, so invite a Taoist priest to perform the rituals. Choose an auspicious date soon and quietly inter him in our family cemetery. Make sure there's no unnecessary fanfare."
"The death of Hua'er was not a glorious one. If we make a big fuss and upset those in power, it could bring trouble. Secondly, we mustn't let the granddaughter-in-law know; she's young and fragile, unable to withstand such a blow."
Knowing that her husband is dead is one thing, but seeing his lifeless body is quite another.
The old housekeeper acknowledged, "This old servant will attend to it immediately."
After the housekeeper left, the matriarch started searching through her hidden savings. Following the entire family's imprisonment, their property had been thoroughly searched, and everything of value – fields, deeds, cash, dowry jewels – had been seized. They were left with nothing but worthless trinkets, which some servants had even stolen before fleeing.
From under a brick beneath her bed, the matriarch retrieved a small box filled with silver fragments, gold nuggets, and a pair of jade bracelets.
These jade bracelets were an heirloom of the Hua family, passed down from the previous head of the household to the next. They held great significance, so she kept them safe, never imagining they would one day serve as a safeguard.
But even these scattered bits of silver and gold were insufficient to support the entire family, let alone secure a place to live.
Their noble titles and official positions stripped, the Hua family was now reduced to commoners. As per the emperor's decree, they had one month to vacate the premises before the authorities arrived to seize the property.
Staring at the coins and bracelets, she was lost in thought. If she had foreseen this day, she would have saved more banknotes. Living in luxury for too long truly dulls one's sense of caution and preparedness. Sighing, she put away the items, uncertain if they would be enough to purchase a two-compound residence in the capital.
Meanwhile, Yu Lian didn't rush back to her quarters. She first visited her in-laws' courtyard. Both were still asleep. The young maid guarding the entrance informed her that the lady had woken up in the middle of the night for a drink of water before dozing off again, while the husband had remained in a daze since yesterday and had yet to awaken.
"The physician mentioned that the medicine is potent, causing deep sleep. It's estimated that she'll awaken in the afternoon." Yu Lian acknowledged this and instructed that she be informed once she wakes up.
As she turned to return to her own courtyard, she was met by three young children. Two boys, identical twins, appeared to be around seven or eight years old, and a little girl, about six, with her hair styled into two small buns, her eyes filled with timidity.
The trio approached Yu Lian and, looking up at her, asked, "Who are you?"
Yu Lian replied, "Are you Hua Ji's younger siblings?"
The three children nodded and responded, "Our elder brother's name is Hua Ji. Who are you?"
Yu Lian gently patted the heads of the three children. The two boys, mischievous by nature, regarded her with wary eyes, clearly unhappy with her touch. However, the girl was exceptionally well-behaved, remaining still as Yu Lian stroked her head and even politely asked, "Greetings, Eldest Sister-in-Law."
Curious, Yu Lian inquired, "How do you know I'm your Eldest Sister-in-Law?"
The girl spoke softly, "I heard it from my aunt. Yesterday, when Eldest Sister-in-Law entered the household, Auntie told me to greet you if I saw you."
Yu Lian was surprised by the six-year-old's precociousness and sense of propriety, as well as her articulate speech.
The two boys, their eyes wide with disbelief, protested, "Big Brother hasn't married yet! You're lying! Big Brother isn't even at home!"
Yu Lian inquired, "Then where do you think your big brother has gone?"
One of the plumper children replied, "Big Brother went to the battlefield to fight the bad guys, just like Mama said."
Yu Lian sighed upon hearing this but didn't comment further.
Lowering her head, she slowly made her way back to her courtyard, appearing melancholic but actually strategizing within her mind.
Before arriving, she had already learned that the East Yuan Marquis household had a simple family structure. The matriarch had given birth to two sons and a daughter. The eldest daughter was married and had become a grandmother, but she had passed away a few years ago, resulting in minimal contact with the East Yuan Marquis family.
Her husband's father, as the eldest son, had inherited the marquis title. He had another son from a different branch, who had already separated from the main family early on. Relying on his father's influence, this son held the position of a Vice Commander-in-Chief, a fifth-rank official, in the imperial court. When the East Yuan Marquis family was implicated in a recent incident, he quickly distanced himself, declaring no further ties with them. This ensured his own position was preserved, free from the emperor's scrutiny.
Her husband's father had one legal wife and two concubines, but not many children. Hua Ji was the legitimate eldest son and the pride and joy of his father. The father and son shared a deep bond and similar personalities, making their relationship particularly close. Thus, when Hua Ji found himself in trouble, his father was the most devastated.
The twins she had just met were the legitimate second and youngest sons, while the girl was the offspring of one of the concubines. Together, they numbered only four children.
Including her in-laws, the grandmother, and the two concubines, the family counted no more than eight members. In this era, such a small family was considered uncommon, especially now with Yu Lian's addition, bringing the total to nine.
Contemplating the throngs of people in the Wei Duke's residence, there were surely scores of masters and servants. In contrast, the Hua residence seemed desolate.
She smiled wryly and shook her head. In these times, fewer people were better. For the sake of stability and reduced expenses, a smaller household would be more manageable for the Hua family.
Walking at a leisurely pace, she soon arrived at Hua Ji's courtyard, which had now become her abode.
Entering the yard, she lay down on a chaise longue outside to take a nap. Upon seeing this, a maid fetched a cloak to cover her, protecting her from the chill.
Yu Lian gradually closed her eyes.
Yesterday, when she rested in this courtyard, she had expected to be sleepless. Surprisingly, she had slept soundly until dawn, feeling incredibly secure.
The first obstacle had been overcome. In the Hua residence, she had gained the endorsement of "Grandmother," the matriarch, whether out of pity for her grandson or affection for her own sake. She should have their support to navigate life in this household smoothly.
Half the battle was won.
As for her yet-to-be-met father-in-law and mother-in-law, she wasn't overly concerned. If the father-in-law cherished his eldest son so much, he likely wouldn't dislike her. As for the mother-in-law...time would tell.
This courtyard was lined with grapevines, though it was not yet the season, leaving only bare trellises with tender shoots. Further back, a cluster of lush green bamboo formed a small grove, adjacent to the windows of the rooms.
Yu Lian gazed at the verdant bamboo grove, lost in thought. Some of the stalks bore scars from a sharp blade, and she could envision the owner who once resided here practicing his swordsmanship with vigor every morning and evening.
As she pondered, a tear involuntarily slipped down her cheek due to habit. She gently wiped it away, shaking her head with a bitter smile. She had inadvertently become immersed in the role, so much so that the mere mention of Hua Ji's name made her weep. This body seemed destined for the stage; if she returned to modern times, she would undoubtedly be an Oscar-winning actress.
Unbeknownst to Yu Lian, the young maid who had fetched her cloak was standing by, watching her gaze into the bamboo grove and shed tears. The maid's eyes also reddened. Her mother was right; the Lady of the Prince's Manor was too deeply in love. How wonderful it would be if the Prince were still alive?
The maid's family served as household servants in the East Yuan Marquis' residence. With many having fled or been sold, only a few remained. Apart from gatekeepers and errand boys, their family was one of the few still attending to their duties. Yesterday, her mother had instructed her to serve by the Lady's side, to keep watch over her.
What Yu Lian didn't know was that a figure in black was crouching behind the bamboo, hidden from sight, silent as a ghost.
The spot where she stood had, the previous night before she fell asleep, been graced by a tall and elegant silhouette standing before the window of that very bamboo grove, guarding her throughout the entire night.
She was correct.
Her husband, Hua Ji, had indeed returned.
And he had stayed by her side all night.
After lunch, Yu Lian continued resting in the courtyard. The previous day's performance had involved either crying or kneeling. To portray the role authentically, she needed to embody the character and the scene, experiencing genuine pain and sorrow. The energy expended required proper rest to replenish.
Mid-sleep, she suddenly sat up as if struck by a terrifying realization.
She held onto the blankets, her gaze blank as she rubbed her eyes.
Where was her husband's corpse?
The authorities would behead criminals but not take responsibility for their burial, unless the deceased had truly no family to claim them. In such cases, they would be buried collectively.
So, where was her husband's body?
She got out of bed hastily and headed outside.
The elder lady was listening to a servant's report, "This old servant instructed Erya to attend to the Lady of the Prince's Mansion and encouraged her to rest more. Lunch was sent to her courtyard, and at this moment, she's taking an afternoon nap."
The elder lady replied, "Did Hua'er bring him back?"
"The carriage is on its way with my husband and a servant boy to retrieve him. Please rest assured, Madam, we will ensure the Prince departs with dignity."
"That's good to hear. I've already invited a Taoist priest, and the date has been chosen. Today, we'll set up a small mourning hall for a day and perform a ritual for Hua'er, praying that he'll have a better life in his next reincarnation with a fortunate destiny, living long, wealthy, and peacefully. After today, he can be laid to rest tomorrow morning. We should do it quickly, so neither Lian'er nor my wayward daughter-in-law see it. I fear they wouldn't be able to bear it."
Perhaps it was fate, for just as Yu Lian stepped out, she encountered Yi Po's husband and a young servant carrying a stretcher with a covered body, both of their eyes reddened from grief.
She instantly understood the situation.
Not long after the old lady had settled her worries, a frightened little maid rushed to report, "Oh no, upon seeing the Prince's body being brought back, Lady Concubine fainted."
Chapter 14: Sending Him Off
◎I'll go see my granddaughter-in-law myself.◎
Yu Lian had initially feigned fainting but unexpectedly fell into a deep sleep. When she woke up, her grandmother was by her side. Upon seeing her awaken, the elder turned away to wipe her tears.
Her voice was slightly hoarse as she spoke, "Grandmother... where's my husband?"
The elderly woman held her down to prevent her from moving. "The physician just left. I've instructed a maid to prepare the medicine. He said you have pent-up emotions and were deeply affected by a sudden shock, impairing your consciousness. You need more rest."
"Child, you've suffered so much for Hua'er. I didn't want you to know the truth to spare you pain, but it seems fate still brought you two together."
Yu Lian sat up in bed, her hand held by her grandmother. After a moment of silence, she lowered her gaze and spoke, "Grandmother, I want to see my husband one last time."
"To talk to him... and send him off on his final journey."
The old lady was momentarily at a loss for words. After gazing at her for a long while, she finally sighed and nodded.
"First, drink your medicine. Then, I'll take you there later."
The elderly matriarch had been weak, but after her granddaughter-in-law fainted, she rallied and even seemed more alert. Now, after accompanying Yu Lian in taking her medicine and sharing a couple of pastries, she finally left.
Outside the Azure Bamboo Courtyard, white banners hung mournfully. Before entering, one could faintly hear sobs.
Standing at the entrance, the matriarch frowned, showing signs of displeasure. Yu Lian supported her arm as they stepped inside.
Three women were weeping inside.
Two of them were likely concubines, kneeling further away, while the third should be her mother-in-law, Hua Ji's birth mother.
Upon entering, the matriarch cleared her throat. "Why are you all crying? I've repeatedly told you to maintain composure. If people hear your wailing, they'll think our Hua family is unsatisfied with the judgment. Should any unexpected incident occur, how would it honor Hua'er's self-sacrifice?"
The three women sobbed and stilled, the concubines somewhat composed, mourning the decline of their household, their master's illness, and the loss of the heir.
The woman lying on the coffin was weeping uncontrollably, hiccupping in between.
Seeing this, Yu Lian approached, knelt beside her, and gently patted her back. After a while, the woman regained her senses, looking at Yu Lian through teary eyes and asking, "Who are you?"
Hearing this question, the matriarch's spirits sank. Her good-for-nothing daughter-in-law, consumed by her own emotions, neglected the entire household, not even recognizing her own granddaughter-in-law. Was this how a mother behaved?
She limped over and pulled Yu Lian up, smoothing out the wrinkles on her dress as she said, "Lian'er, go light a incense for your husband."
The woman was taken aback. "When did Hua'er get married?"
From somewhere, the matron produced a low stool, and the elderly lady sat down. Her eyes reddened as she gazed at the spirit coffin before her. She had intended to scold her daughter-in-law, but now she lacked the heart to do so.
In a calm voice, she said, "If you, as a mother, are truly concerned, you can inquire about the details. I won't waste my breath. Just remember one thing: Lian'er is Hua'er's wife, and thus your own daughter-in-law. In the future, if she respects and honors you, you must love and protect her in return. Don't always think only of yourself."
The woman was somewhat afraid of the elderly lady and dared not ask more questions, even in her confusion. She merely murmured an obedient "Yes."
After Yu Lian lit the incense, she stood there motionless for a long time.
After a while, she heard someone calling her name, bringing her back to reality. She quickly wiped away her tears. "Grandmother?"
She was incredibly beautiful, with a smile-like expression even when not crying. When tears welled up in her eyes, she looked all the more pitiable. Lost in thought, staring at her husband's spirit coffin, silent and weeping, this sight tugged at the old lady's heartstrings.
Waving at her, she said, "Lian'er, come here. Grandmother isn't feeling well, and my legs are unsteady. Help me back to rest."
Yu Lian glanced at the coffin, hesitating for a moment. Recalling how filial her husband had been to his grandmother, she finally went over and supported the elderly lady as they slowly exited the memorial hall. As they stepped out of the courtyard, she turned back for a last look, a tear rolling down her cheek. Swiftly, she wiped it away.
The matriarch said, "Lian'er, when we get to Grandmother's quarters, could you give me a head massage? My head is aching terribly, and I'm exhausted. Yi Po is clumsy and never does it right. It's pitiful that our household has fallen on hard times; all the clever maids have run away, and apart from Yi Po, there isn't a single trustworthy person to assist Grandmother."
Understanding that the matriarch was trying to prevent her from being too affected by the scene at the mourning hall, Yu Lian replied, "If Grandmother is unwell, Lian'er will naturally be at your service."
The matriarch smiled with relief.
If Hua'er's spirit were watching from above, he wouldn't bear to see his wife grieve.
The next morning, as the matriarch awoke, Yi Po said helplessly by her side, "Yesterday, you asked the Lady of the Firstborn Son to stay here for the night, hoping to keep an eye on her so she wouldn't go to the smaller mourning hall and upset herself. But Lady of the Firstborn Son's love for the Firstborn Son is deep and unwavering—how could we stop her? After you fell asleep, she got up in the middle of the night and spent the entire evening guarding the smaller mourning hall. She's still there now, burning paper money for the Firstborn Son without leaving his side for even a moment."
"I was worried something might happen, so I sent my husband and Erya over to keep watch. We'll wait until you're awake to persuade her."
The matriarch knew this was exactly what had happened.
She couldn't hold back this foolish child after all.
Well, after today, she wouldn't be able to see Hua'er again anyway. She couldn't deny her this small comfort.
As Yi Po helped the matriarch dress, the latter urged her to hurry, "I need to check on my granddaughter-in-law."
Arriving there, the invited Daoist priest had already performed the ritual. The matriarch saw her granddaughter-in-law, Yu Lian, kneeling alone by the spirit coffin, methodically burning joss paper, oblivious to the world around her as if lost in deep thought, unable to see anyone else.
Calling out to her several times and patting her shoulder, it was only then that Yu Lian regained her senses.
Wiping away her tears, she hurriedly tried to hide her emotions, but the matriarch noticed her reddened and swollen eyes. She sighed and said, "Have something to eat first. Later, we'll send Hua'er off, and then you should get a good night's sleep."
Following the matriarch's gentle urging, Yu Lian struggled to her feet. Her legs were numb and weak, causing her to nearly stumble. Fortunately, Erya was nearby and quickly offered assistance.
After the Daoist's ceremony, the family stood in turn to offer incense, pay their respects, and burn memorial texts. With these rituals completed, the ceremony came to an end.
Lady Yu Lian's mother-in-law, after finishing her prayers, exclaimed that her son had fainted again from weeping.
The elderly lady helplessly called for servants to escort Yu Lian back to her courtyard.
Taking up her brush, Yu Lian composed a line as an elegy, which she then burned in the brazier. A sudden gust of wind came, blowing away half-burned paper.
She stood rooted to the spot, staring blankly at the direction where the paper drifted, then bowed her head and smiled bitterly before rewriting another one.
Observing all this, the old lady felt even more compassion for her granddaughter-in-law.
After bidding Hua Ji farewell, the Hua residence returned to its quiet serenity.
Grandmama's endurance reached its limit in the afternoon, and she fell ill that very day.
As a result, all three elders of the Hua family were now incapacitated. The head of the family couldn't even attend his eldest son's funeral... Yu Lian had no choice but to keep going.
"Lián-er..." Grandmama caught her breath and asked her granddaughter-in-law to help her sit up. Leaning against the headboard, she held tightly onto her granddaughter-in-law's hand and sighed deeply. In just a few days, it felt as if she had exhausted all her sighs for this lifetime. Now, with her grandson gone and her granddaughter-in-law left behind, it was both a blessing and a curse.
With a compassionate gaze, she looked at her granddaughter-in-law. "I'm sorry you have to suffer. With me being ill and already advanced in age, my body is growing weaker by the day. I don't know how much longer I can hold on. While I'm still lucid, let me tell you about the affairs of our household."
Yu Lian: "Grandmother, please don't say such things..." She took the medicinal soup from Yi Po, gently swirled it to cool it down, and then, spoon by spoon, fed it to the elder lady's lips.
The old lady took a sip. It was bitter, yet warmly soothing, warming both her body and soul. Moreover, her thoughtful granddaughter-in-law was by her side, attending to her with great care.
Chapter 15: The Marketplace
◎ If I had any regrets, I wouldn't have married into this family. ◎
"The situation in the household is no secret to you. Two weeks ago, during that upheaval, your father-in-law and husband were taken into custody right in front of the palace gates. In the dead of night, the Imperial Guards surrounded our residence, and all the female members of the family, children, and servants were taken away. Taking advantage of the chaos, the officials ransacked the entire estate, searching for evidence of your father and husband's supposed rebellion. They even plundered all our valuable possessions."
"Our family, the Huas, have accumulated wealth for generations and could be considered an aristocratic household. Had you married in before this, you would undoubtedly have been treated with riches and luxury. However, now there is hardly any money left in the estate, nor do we possess any farmlands, shops, secondary residences, or precious treasures. After much contemplation, I believe it's best to be honest with you."
She held her granddaughter-in-law's hand, gazing at her with affection and remorse. "Now, both your grandfather and I are ailing, and the family has fallen on hard times. Soon, the authorities might come knocking, forcing us out of our home and leaving us to find another place to live. This mansion will be reclaimed by the state, and being associated with our family has become nothing but trouble. Yet, you, my dear, insist on staying. It truly breaks my heart."
Patting her granddaughter-in-law's hand, she continued, "Yu Lian, if you choose to leave now, not only will I not blame you, but I also wish for you to meet a good man and find happiness. It would bring me great comfort and joy."
After speaking, she took a small box from the bedside table and retrieved a pair of exquisite jade bracelets, their lustrous green hue translucent and soothing. She gently fastened them around her granddaughter-in-law's wrists. "Yu Lian, your hands are delicate and graceful, perfect for adorning jade bracelets. These jade bangles are a gift from me, to serve as part of your dowry."
Yu Lian did not decline; instead, she slowly fed her grandmother the bowl of herbal medicine before responding, "Grandmother, if I had any regrets, I wouldn't have married into this family."
"I have already vowed to your late husband that I would take care of his family, look after you, your father, and mother-in-law, as well as my younger siblings. I won't go back on my word. Grandmother, such words hurt deeply."
Hearing this, the elderly lady felt a pang of guilt and hurriedly said, "Grandmother is just saddened... You're so young and beautiful, with a bright future ahead of you. Now, you've found yourself in this troubled situation. With the state of our family, I have no idea what lies ahead. I can only imagine that life won't be easy."
Thoughts of these circumstances overwhelmed Grandmother with guilt. Hua'er has wronged you, and our Hua Family has too. Had we known... had we known your intentions, I would have sent someone to stop you and explain the consequences. You're still young, with a long life ahead. I dread the thought of wasting your years.
Yu Lian's eyes shimmered with tears, but she managed a smile as she held Grandmother's hand. "Promise me, never again will you ask Lian'er to leave. Since I've married my husband, I belong to him. Even if he's no longer here... I am still part of the Hua Family, your beloved granddaughter-in-law. If my husband is not here, I will honor him by taking care of you in his stead."
Touched to the point of tears, Grandmother struggled to find words. How could she ask her devoted and filial granddaughter-in-law to go? She eventually nodded repeatedly. "Very well, very well. Let's not speak of it anymore. It was my fault."
After soothing Grandmother to sleep, Yu Lian quickly regained her composure. With the key to the accounts room, account books, and indenture contracts, she summoned the remaining six servants: Yi Po's family of four, a crippled doorman, and a young errand boy. These two had nowhere else to go, which is why they stayed.
Yi Po smiled first. "Your Highness, if there's anything, please instruct us." Sincerely fond of the Lady of the Principality, she admired her character and was more than willing to offer assistance.
Yu Lian said, "Today, all of you work harder to find any non-essential items in the mansion and pack them up. Sell them to exchange for some silver."
The group looked at each other, and Yi Po seemed hesitant. "If we sell these items, it will attract attention. If people see us..."
"What if they see us?"
Yi Po replied, "Madam, this old servant is worried that others might say unpleasant things."
Back when the East Yuan Marquis's residence was in its prime, it was frequented by the elite and influential. The more shallow-minded families wouldn't dare set foot in the door. Now, however, they've reached a point where they have to sell their possessions. And those valuable items were long seized by the soldiers; what remains in the mansion isn't worth much...
With a composed expression, the faint remnants of yesterday's tears still evident in her reddened eyes, Yu Lian said, "At this point, what use is there in worrying about reputation? Even if we don't sell anything, others won't talk or speculate about us?"
She continued, "Let's not call me the Lady of the Heir anymore. Just address me as Young Lady to avoid attracting trouble if someone overhears."
The servants all agreed in unison.
Yu Lian instructed, "Carry on with your preparations without concerning yourselves with gossip. If the authorities come knocking, it will be too late to tidy up."
Large furniture pieces were unsellable and would be confiscated along with the estate according to law. However, personal belongings and decorative items could be collected and sold without official interference. Some officials, though, after years of indulging their vanity and luxury, found it difficult to humble themselves by selling their possessions.
Yu Lian, who had previously managed both personnel and administrative affairs, was accustomed to meticulous planning. She had thought it through carefully. Firstly, the household funds were running low, and moving to a new residence would require a substantial amount of money. Every penny counted now; not a single coin should be overlooked.
Secondly, the East Yuan Marquis had made many enemies in its heyday, and the emperor was keeping a watchful eye. In such a critical moment, the more destitute the family appeared, the safer they would be. It would minimize potential conflicts. To put it bluntly, when one has hit rock bottom, foes might not even bother to target them.
In this situation, the strategy was to retreat to the sidelines, find a place to survive, and bide time for growth – this was the survival tactic for those at the bottom rung.
Yu Lian further directed, "After gathering the items, invite buyers from outside to collect them. Move everything out through the back door. Then, lock all unused courtyards and side gates. The four of you men should take turns guarding the main entrance. Don't open it unless necessary. For the next few days, use the back door for grocery shopping and be discreet and cautious in your actions..."
As she spoke, Yu Lian glanced at the vast courtyard. In the East Yuan Marquis' residence, there were at least a dozen such spacious yards, not to mention gardens, ponds, and lakes. If these resources could be utilized, they could sustain themselves by farming and cultivating crops right within the estate, without ever needing to venture out.
With a tinge of regret, she thought to herself, alas, this mansion would soon be reclaimed by that despicable emperor.
There were advantages to having fewer servants; they generally followed orders promptly. Upon Yu Lian's instruction, the six of them sprang into action, scurrying through the various courtyards, moving belongings. The most occupied was the yi po (an elderly female servant), as others were unsure about the significance of certain items. As she had served the matriarch the longest, she knew best. They waited for her confirmation before daring to remove anything.
Realizing that this method was inefficient, Yu Lian instructed them to carry everything out in baskets and pile it together. The yi po watched closely, tossing items into the 'for sale' heap once she verified their suitability.
In truth, there wasn't much that couldn't be sold, excluding a few cherished possessions of the masters. Aside from those, there weren't many valuable items left.
After a day of sorting, the following morning, the yi po's husband summoned a buyer, who carted away the goods through the back door. Yu Lian didn't make an appearance; the couple handled the transaction. The buyer proved to be honest, offering a fair price.
The yi po came to boast of her achievement. "He mentioned being moved by the lady's virtue, so he added an extra 20% on top of the market value."
"I sneaked out with my husband when he went to find a buyer today. I discovered that your name is on everyone's lips at the marketplaces. People are praising your kindness, grace, and noble character. Some have even spun stories about you, which are spreading like wildfire through the streets. One of them was so heart-rending that I almost shed tears standing there listening."
Yu Lian acknowledged with an "oh," then asked, "What was the ending of that story?"
"One version has it that your deep affection moved the heavens, and the Jade Emperor granted the prince life again. From then on, the two of you lived in love and harmony, as a fairy tale couple envied by all."
"However, most versions end tragically, focusing on your virtue without a happy resolution. For instance, one tells how, after the matriarch, patriarch, and madam passed, you chose to die alongside them, a lamentable fabrication that exploits the emotions of listeners... Personally, I prefer that version. Apparently, the citizens of the capital, tired of hearing sad tales, have become enraged. A talented scholar wrote a new story, which was just released yesterday. The storyteller at Fu Lai Inn started narrating it, and the place was instantly packed. After shedding enough tears, people now want to hear this version."
If time permitted, Yu Lian would be intrigued to hear the tales the common folk spun about her.
However, after bidding Hua Ji farewell, there was much to be done within the household. Her father-in-law lay in bed, mostly in a daze, rarely lucid, his once robust frame now gaunt and haggard. It seemed he was on the verge of following his son into the afterlife. Her mother-in-law wept incessantly, frequently fainting from the sorrow.
Her grandmother was also unwell and unable to lend a hand. In this vast estate, there were only a few servants capable of assistance, leaving her with numerous tasks to attend to personally.
Occasionally, thoughts wandered to the Wei Duke's residence. She wondered how her own parents were faring and if her grandmother had held them responsible for the misfortunes.
The third courtyard of the Wei Duke's mansion—
Madam Yu had been weeping for days, more bitterly than when her son-in-law was sentenced to death or when her daughter's marriage was called off. Yet, she dared not cry aloud, instead secretly shedding tears in her room, fearful of being overheard.
On the day her daughter left the Duke's residence, she wanted to chase after her, even if she couldn't persuade her to stay, just to accompany her on her journey. She also wished to tell her not to kneel, for fear that she might hurt herself. However, the matriarch sternly forbade anyone from seeing her off. When the servant returned with the news that Sixth Miss had knelt every ten steps for nearly a hundred meters before turning away, Madam Yu's heart ached uncontrollably, filled with sorrow.
She mustered the courage to beg the matriarch, hoping to provide additional dowry for her daughter. Her daughter had left with nothing, completely devoid of possessions. What could possibly be left in the Hu House after it had been ransacked? It might be challenging just to support her daughter.
But the matriarch refused and declared that neither she nor her husband were allowed to acknowledge their daughter. They were forbidden from secretly aiding her or having any connection with her. If their actions brought disgrace to the Duke's residence, their entire branch would be expelled.
Unable to bid her daughter farewell or provide her with a dowry, Madam Yu was overwhelmed with grief. She had been unable to sleep well these past few nights, often breaking into tears at the thought of her daughter, soaking several handkerchiefs in the process.
She had no choice but to instruct her young maid to secretly venture out and inquire about her daughter's well-being within the opulent Huafu.