As the Villainess Daughter-in-Law

by Usui Takumii

not mine, asia novel dot net. Total: 112 Chapters and 2 Extras. Beware edited mtl. Waiting for the translator to update.

19. 91 to 95

Chapter 91: Buying Land

◎ The emperor truly deserves to be the worst profession since ancient times ◇

News had spread that the wealthiest landowner in town, Master Chen, was selling his fields.

This news came out just a few days after Yu Lian's family had finished planting barley. During this time, Yu Lian had been resting at home, occasionally stretching and practicing yoga to alleviate her aching muscles. Even Mrs. Chen, the elder of the family, had joined her in these exercises.

Master Chen was the largest landowner in the vicinity, owning plots of land in virtually every village. For instance, in Upper Village, at least one-third of the land belonged to the Chen family. The villagers owned very little or no land of their own, so they rented from the landowners, giving six parts of their harvest to the landowners and keeping only four for themselves, while still having to pay taxes.

This was why the villagers lived such difficult lives. Even in bountiful years, they could barely make ends meet, and any silver they managed to save was obtained through strict frugality. In lean years, they would work in vain, perhaps even ending up owing rent and taxes to the landowners – it was an unjust predicament.

It was only last year, when working for Yu Lian's family, that most households in the village managed to save a bit of silver. Coupled with the fact that last year was blessed with good weather and no natural disasters, life had slightly improved.

In a society where agricultural productivity reigned supreme, land was the invaluable wealth in the eyes of the common folk.

Hua Sanduo chuckled and said, "Master Chen's son is not a credit to the family. He has accumulated a mountain of gambling debts. Initially, we thought the family fortune would be squandered by this wayward son. But then rumors emerged that Master Chen's daughter has caught the eye of the emperor and has now become a concubine, enjoying imperial favor."

Yu Lian: "..."

Though Chen, the landowner, possessed some wealth, he was still considered no different from an ordinary commoner in the eyes of the elite. He was merely a rural landowner, a lowly civilian with no rank or title. It didn't matter how beautiful his daughter was; without the proper channels to bring her to the emperor's attention, her beauty would go unnoticed.

It was through Hua Sanduo's sharing of gossip that Yu Lian learned the truth. The landowner's youngest daughter, fair and lovely, had employed all her resources and connections to secure a position as a maid in the Empress Dowager's court.

This Empress Dowager was none other than Li Xiang's older sister, the daughter of the Ru Yang Marquis.

The young girl had taken advantage of the Empress Dowager's pregnancy to ensnare the emperor, eventually finding herself in his bed. Perhaps, after indulging in lavish banquets, the emperor found a simple, unassuming beauty like hers to be a refreshing change, akin to savoring plain congee and vegetables after a feast of seafood.

The emperor found the taste delightful and favored her for two consecutive days. As a result, the young maid was swiftly promoted from a palace servant to a Concubine. One must know that before attaining the rank of Concubine, there were several other ranks, such as Noble Lady, to ascend through.

Thus, the Chen family, having gained prosperity through their daughter, decided to sell their properties and lands, relocating the entire household to the capital, aspiring to become one of the city's "new aristocrats."

Yu Lian: "This..."

Firstly, it was evident that Li Xiang's Imperial Concubine sister was being openly mistreated, but it could also be a strategic move. Pregnant and about to give birth, she might be provoking the queen's jealousy by becoming a target. This way, the emperor would feel more guilt towards her, which could work in her favor.

Secondly, how significant was the rank of a Concubine? According to the current dynasty's hierarchy of imperial consorts, excluding those without official ranks, a Concubine was merely at the entry level with a title. In terms of ranking, she was second to last, with the lowest being a Beauty.

It seems that Concubine Chen holds a rather insignificant position in the imperial harem. For Lord Chen's family to hastily sell their land and seek refuge with their "favorite concubine" daughter, isn't this rush a bit too eager?

In the imperial harem, should any concubine meddle in affairs, it's likely that Concubine Chen would be chopped into bits and fed to the flowers in the royal garden, hurrying her entire family to be reincarnated?

Upon closer reflection, it's understandable that a humble country landowner, with limited horizons and an earnest desire to transcend his social class, lured by the allure of wealth and prosperity in the capital, might not ponder the intricacies too deeply. He would simply seize the opportunity with both hands, eager to make his move.

Let alone petty landowners, even some minor officials and immense wealth holders would likely find it hard to resist the allure of becoming an "imperial relative" to the emperor.

None of this concerned Yu Lian; at most, she would sigh with a tinge of irony, acknowledging that the emperor had indeed been the most wayward occupation since ancient times. The same could be said for the novel's male lead, who seemed capable of becoming entangled with any woman, truly a master of dalliance.

In that instant, she also realized how intense and pressing the struggles in the imperial court and harem had become. Her parents and Li Xiang had mentioned the situation in the capital in their letters; it seemed it was true, and the circumstances were far more severe than Yu Lian had imagined.

The strangest part was that didn't His Majesty the Emperor realize his court and harem were on the verge of fragmenting? How could he still have the leisure to dally with women?

Or did he think he could benefit from the conflicts between others, playing the game of imperial balance?

From Yu Lian's perspective, that was wishful thinking. If he lacked the skill, he should honestly govern the nation and do more practical things for the people. All this talk about imperial strategy would only lead him astray in the end.

She couldn't help but wonder: in the novel, the story ended with the third prince ascending the throne. There wasn't much content about the aftermath. Could it be that after the grand finale, the male lead's intelligence had transformed from being the driving force to becoming an obstacle?

Hua Sanduo was unaware that his employer had been contemplating so much in such a short time. With a smile, he offered his advice, "Why not take this opportunity to purchase some land? Regardless of the outcome of your business, owning land provides an extra layer of security. Besides, those ten acres you have aren't fertile; they're unsuitable for fruit trees or wheat, and how valuable can barley be?"

Yu Lian nodded with a grin. She had been thinking the same thing. Having capable people around saved her a lot of worry. Hua Sanduo not only considered the situation on her behalf but also proactively proposed solutions. More importantly, he had perceived her needs and promptly informed her of the news.

Worried that news of Landlord Chen's intention to sell might prompt others to snatch up the good plots, Yu Lian hastily fetched some silver, took Hua Sanduo along, and called for Zhu Ying and her father-in-law before rushing to Landlord Chen's residence.

The Chen household was bustling with activity. Some visitors had come to congratulate them on their daughter's favor with the emperor, hoping for favors in return. Others had heard about the land sale and were planning to move to the capital city in anticipation of opportunities.

Yu Lian belonged to the latter group, hoping that Landlord Chen would be eager to sell quickly, thus lowering the price. This time, she didn't want inferior land; she aimed for the best fields!

Indeed, Landlord Chen was in a hurry to sell. His ungrateful son had accumulated significant gambling debts, and the backers of the gambling den were rumored to be influential figures from the capital. He feared that if he didn't repay the debt swiftly, it could offend them and, worse, ruin his concubine-born daughter's future.

Thus, selling the land served two purposes: raising money to pay off debts and relocating the family to the capital hastily, to avoid any complications that might arise. It would also help wean his son off gambling.

However, his desperation had alerted the cunning merchants, who were now pushing for a steep discount, driving down the value of the land by at least thirty to forty percent. How could that be acceptable? Would the family not need a house, living expenses, or support for their daughter in the palace?

Everything would require spending, so he couldn't allow these unscrupulous merchants to depress the price too much. Unfortunately, these merchants were local power brokers. By silently agreeing to lower the prices, they intimidated others from making offers. As a result, no land was sold, leaving Landlord Chen with all the plots unsold in his hands.

Yu Lian approached the entrance just as the "shrewd merchants" were being politely escorted out of Master Chen's residence by the butler. When they were out of sight, Yu Lian inquired, "I've heard that Master Chen is selling his fields?"

The old butler gave her a thorough glance, noticing that even beneath her veil, the woman was strikingly beautiful, perhaps even surpassing his own lady, who now resided in the palace, by a tenth or more in terms of appearance. Strangely, she was accompanied by three men, all of whom seemed to follow her lead, and none of them spoke except for this stunning beauty.

"What are you looking at?"

Perhaps the butler's prolonged gaze at Yu Lian had irked the three men behind her. Hua Sanduo felt that his employer came from an esteemed background and shouldn't be so casually ogled by commoners. Zhu Ying perceived that his young mistress was being disrespected, while Hua Zhan, at his core, remained the strategic War God Marquis, never tolerating such curious stares on his daughter-in-law.

He stepped aside, blocking the butler's view.

Startled, the butler quickly regained his composure, refraining from further scrutiny. He replied politely, "To answer your question, indeed, that is the case."

Yu Lian's line of sight was obstructed by her father-in-law's robust figure, leaving her no choice but to sigh and ask, "If it's convenient, could we take a look at the land registry?"

As the property belonged to Master Chen, they would naturally have records for potential buyers to peruse.

The butler sighed, "It would be a fruitless endeavor for the guest to look. Several prominent families led by the Li family have their eyes on our master's land. It's impossible to sell now, and if you were to purchase it, you might invite trouble. Moreover... unless sold to those families, the county office won't process the transfer."

There were many intricacies involved in this matter. The Chen family's roots weren't native to this area; their ancestors were wealthy merchants who sought refuge here and, with some silver in hand, acquired substantial lands. Unlike the local power brokers, they had even managed to gain the favor of the county magistrate.

That was why Mrs. Chen was so eager to climb the social ladder and seek alliance with influential forces. She was even willing to send her daughter to the palace, hoping she would catch the Emperor's favor.

The County Magistrate didn't wish for this either. He was aware that Miss Chen had received the Emperor's favor. Though a concubine of the rank of Companion wasn't a significant imperial consort, there was no guarantee that things couldn't change. What if, in the future, she rose to wealth and status, only to have her past held against her in a reckoning?

But those influential families argued that she was merely a concubine with no noble background or influential connections. They wondered how long her favor would last. Having enjoyed the emperor's attention for just two days, she had already offended the queen, the favorite concubine, and a host of other consorts. With her own position unstable, who in the harem would truly take her seriously?

It was only the Chen family's narrow vision that made them rush to seek refuge with their daughter, perhaps not realizing they might be heading to mourn her instead.

The County Magistrate pondered and found it to be true. Back then, the Chen family's ancestors had acquired vast tracts of land, which even stirred the County Magistrate's desire. If he could acquire them at a low price, it would bring enormous profits. Deducting the transfer taxes, the ledger of the county office would look much more impressive this year.

Yu Lian's brow furrowed slightly; the Li in question was likely Lady Li, the wife of the man who had helped her open five franchise branches.

Chapter 92: Manipulation

◎ (Revised version) The father-in-law had already imagined his perfect eldest son becoming henpecked… ◇

After some deliberation, Yu Lian changed her tone and said she had heard that the daughter of Master Chen had become a noble concubine, and thus came to offer her congratulations. In a whisper, she added, "Master Chen seems unaware of the troubles he's about to face, yet he worries over such trifles?"

Upon hearing this, the steward was utterly shocked. He stared wide-eyed, but could not see Yu Lian behind her father-in-law Hua Zhan's towering figure.

Steward: "…" His face flushed as he retorted, "What nonsense are you spouting? Our young miss has become a court lady, favored by the Emperor. This is a time of great joy. What trouble could there be?"

The three men were also startled, not understanding what Yu Lian meant. However, they tactfully kept silent, maintaining stern expressions as if they knew the situation.

Yu Lian chuckled. "Why not convey my words to your master? We'll wait here."

Though the steward didn't comprehend the true meaning behind Yu Lian's words, he was intimidated. Noticing her and Hua Zhan's regal bearing, he quickly surmised they were no ordinary people. After a brief pause, he said, "Very well, we'll wait then."

Perhaps afraid to offend Yu Lian or lose them, he instructed the door attendant to lead them inside to wait.

Once the steward left, the four of them sat down. Hua Zhan turned to his daughter-in-law and asked, "What do you mean?"

Yu Lian smiled and said, "Just a petty trick."

"I hold no power or influence, and my background is obscure. It wouldn't be easy for me to meet Mister Chen, even under the pretense of purchasing land. That's because, apart from a few plots, no one else would sell theirs. If I were to claim that I have a solution to his predicament, he might suspect me as a fraud. By startling him first with the prediction of a great calamity, his anger and confusion will likely compel him to see me."

This was a simple psychological tactic, akin to a street fortune-teller who spots someone and warns them of an ominous face, a darkened forehead indicating potential bloodshed, instilling fear before swindling them of their money.

Zhu Ying was utterly perplexed, not grasping the meaning but admiring Madam Hua's cleverness all the same.

Hua Sanduo and Hua Zhan understood the plan: "..."

After a while, Landlord Chen indeed arrived, his steps hurried and his brow drenched in sweat. His ample flesh jiggled with each anxious stride.

Upon entering, he erupted in anger, "Which disrespectful scoundrel, which damned coward, dared to curse me with calamity?"

Raising his gaze, he saw Hua Zhan frowning, exuding an imposing presence. The young man beside her was even equipped with a long sword. Immediately, he didn't dare to raise his voice, almost stammering as he asked, "Who might you be, honored guests?"

Hua Zhan replied, "Ordinary mortals."

Landlord Chen: "..."

Zhu Ying couldn't help but giggle, causing Master Chen's face to fall. He entered and sat down with a thud, "Just who are you people? Are you not afraid of offending me, Chen?"

Afraid that her father-in-law's sharp tongue might provoke someone to anger, Yu Lian stepped forward with a gentle smile. "Though Master Chen is rejoicing in an impending joy, he may not be aware of the potential dangers that come with it. What seems like a blessing could lead to unforeseen troubles. My father and I initially came to purchase land, but upon hearing about the situation at the Chen residence, we were inspired to perform a good deed for the day."

Landlord Chen only then noticed the woman standing behind Hua Zhan. As the steward had mentioned, she was indeed incomparably more beautiful than his youngest daughter. Such a stunning woman couldn't possibly come from an ordinary family. Though he didn't have much exposure to high society, he could tell that she had an impressive background. Suppressing his anger, he said, "Speak your mind... ahem, directly. Don't beat around the bush; I won't understand."

Only then did Yu Lian realize that Master Chen was indeed the epitome of an unrefined rural tycoon, akin to a illiterate man with a heavy gold chain around his neck. Though crude, such individuals were far easier to deal with (and deceive) than shrewd merchants with endless schemes up their sleeves.

No wonder they are held in such tight grip by those influential families.

She let out a sigh and even instructed Zhu Ying to close the door, causing Master Chen to grow anxious.

Yu Lian spoke rather candidly, considering their brief acquaintance, "My father was once the East Yuan Marquis, and I am the sixth lady of the Wei Duke's residence."

Master Chen was so startled that he tumbled onto the floor.

Yu Lian chuckled softly, amused by Master Chen's reaction. She continued, "Although we are now in a state of decline, we are well-versed in the ways of the wealthiest places in the land. Witnessing the troubles of the Chen family, we couldn't bear to stand idly by, hence our desire to offer some advice to Master Chen."

Master Chen had previously heard rumors of an aristocratic family from the capital seeking refuge in their area, a family known as the East Yuan Marquis. Back then, he hadn't paid much attention; once they were fallen, what value would there be in befriending them?

Moreover, he had heard that she was guilty of a grave offense.

Now, upon hearing that the man beside Yu Lian was none other than the East Yuan Marquis, he was utterly startled. Then, when Yu Lian revealed herself to be the sixth miss of the Wei Duke's residence, he was astounded. Just what kind of prominent family was the Wei Duke's household?

It was beyond his wildest imagination.

Shaking with fear, he struggled to his feet and promptly chose to believe Yu Lian's words without hesitation.

Both Yu Lian and the man before him possessed exceptional looks and demeanor. People like them rarely, if ever, graced this humble countryside. Would they really bother to deceive him?

With the matter now out in the open, Landlord Chen, in his panic, did not attempt to hide anything. He asked straightforwardly, "You've been saying that my family is in peril. What kind of peril? My daughter has become a concubine and is favored by the emperor. Our family is on the brink of prosperity. This should be a joyous occasion..."

Yu Lian replied, "Indeed, your daughter's ascension to the rank of concubine is a cause for celebration. However, you're unaware of the true identity of the Empress Consort. She hails from the Ru Yang Marquis' main lineage and has spent years cultivating her influence in the palace. Moreover, she enjoys the emperor's deep affection. Yet, just as she is about to give birth to an imperial son, a lowly palace maid manages to steal his affections and share his bed instead. Doesn't that seem odd to you?"

"Well, it must be because my daughter is attractive..." But when faced with Yu Lian's gaze, his confidence wavered. In comparison, Yu Lian's beauty surpassed his daughter's. His child was merely a slightly more pleasing wildflower on the roadside.

Realizing something was amiss, he requested, "Please elaborate."

Before Yu Lian could respond, he suddenly remembered something and looked at her and her companion suspiciously. "What do you gain by helping me?"

"First, tell me what you're seeking," Landlord Chen said. Despite his limited horizons, he was an experienced rural landowner who knew the golden rule: no one bothers you without a reason or a profit to be made. Why would someone offer advice unless they stood to benefit?

Yu Lian replied frankly, "I've heard that your family is selling some land..."

Upon hearing this, Landlord Chen understood their intentions but also his predicament. "The county magistrate and those others are forcing me to sell at a low price. If I don't sell to one of them, the transfer won't go through, so even if I wanted to help you, it's impossible."

Yu Lian smiled. "That's easily solved. Sell it to me at eighty percent of its market value, and I'll take care of the transfer process. As for the remaining twenty percent, consider it my fee for assisting you."

Eighty percent of the market value... Although this wasn't a high price, it was significantly better than the bloodsucking offer he had received. Besides, Landlord Chen was already irritated by those people and was willing to sell at a loss rather than to them, even if it meant not selling the land at all.

Now, having considered Yu Lian's proposal for a moment, he was somewhat inclined to agree. However, before he could respond, Yu Lian continued, "Let's postpone those matters for later. First, allow me, Mr. Chen, to analyze your current predicament."

This was the most perplexing and unsettling issue for Master Chen, as it concerned not only his daughter's future but also the well-being of his entire family. It mattered far more than any land he possessed. Hearing this, he remained silent, awaiting Yu Lian's words.

"The Empress already has an heir, while the Concubine is with child, soon to give birth. Should she deliver a prince, both women will hold significant power - the Concubine as the Emperor's most favored, and the Empress as the embodiment of imperial grace. The entire palace and court would align themselves with either one. In this intense rivalry where neither side gains the upper hand, your daughter has been positioned as the Concubine's target. A single misstep could make her a pawn in the ongoing struggle within the palace and the court. And time is of the essence; it could happen at any moment..."

Landlord Chen grew anxious. "What target? What sacrifice? Please, explain yourself more clearly!"

"Naturally, it's because the Concubine has a child in her womb and fears persecution from the Empress. By setting up a scapegoat, she draws the Empress's attention away while also arousing the Emperor's guilt, making him cherish and protect her more. The Empress, though aware that Concubine Chen is merely a pawn, might still vent her anger on her. Terminating a mere Concubine is trivial for an Empress. Moreover, among the ladies of the harem, who is truly an easy person to deal with? One misstep, and one's fate could be shattered into pieces."

"Your journey to the capital will not only leave you without a place to stay, but Chen Concubine is still unstable in her position within the palace. She might even have lingering fears for her safety. Your presence would not be of assistance; instead, it could put you both in jeopardy."

These words struck fear into Lord Chen's heart. Yu Lian's reasoning was sound and delivered with confidence, revealing her intimate knowledge of the capital's court and imperial harem. Lord Chen was already convinced by nine-tenths of what she said, and her background only solidified his full belief!

He hesitated, "Then... shall we not go? I'll sever ties with that ungrateful daughter!"

Yu Lian: "..." What kind of monstrous father was this?

He'd willingly sent his daughter into the treacherous vortex of the imperial harem in pursuit of wealth and status. As a daughter of a landowner, she lacked connections and power, making every step within the palace a perilous one. Yet, at the first sign of danger, her father was ready to abandon her with the ultimate move of disownment...

Yu Lian sighed for the unfortunate girl and said solemnly, "No, staying behind might ensure your safety, but should you offend someone of high rank, severing ties won't be enough to protect you from trouble. I ask you, do you wish to take a chance at wealth and status?"

The landowner Chen's eyes gleamed. "Please advise me."

Yu Lian then offered a plan to Landowner Chen, suggesting he travel to the capital and instruct his daughter to secretly seek the support of the Empress. She should present herself as vulnerable and pitiful before the Emperor, as being a country girl, the Emperor wouldn't suspect her true intentions.

All they needed was for the Emperor to harbor a hint of compassion. It mattered little if the Empress believed her or not. As she had come from the Palace of the Honorable Consort, the Empress would be hesitant to harm her, and might even use her as a tool against her rival.

This way, she would be safe and could create chaos within the palace. If she were to gain the Emperor's favor, it would be even better.

"Yet, remember to decline any promotion from the Emperor. Her current position is inconspicuous and perfect. Any higher, and she'll attract suspicion."

If she refuses the upgrade, the Emperor might perceive this girl as unpretentious, not vying for fame or profit, and solely devoted to him.

Given Yu Lian's understanding of the novel's womanizing Emperor, such a thought is highly plausible...

Of course, speculations based on others' subjective perspectives aren't the main point. The primary objective is to guide Concubine Chen into becoming a favorite, covertly stirring trouble in the palace as revenge against the villain Hua Ji and his family, as well as avenging the original protagonist who was expelled from the palace, lost her reputation, and ultimately drowned herself.

Next, Yu Lian summarized all the palace intrigue tactics she had learned from TV dramas, movies, and novels, practically imparting a roadmap to divine favor upon Landlord Chen.

Landlord Chen: "...!" Astonished!

Hua Zhan's stern lips twitched involuntarily. He looked up at the sky, wondering where his daughter-in-law, a lady of noble birth, had learned so many tricks. Wouldn't Hua'er be completely dominated in the future?

Yu Lian, having vented her thoughts, didn't realize that her father-in-law had already imagined his impeccable eldest son turning into a henpecked husband...

"..."

Zhu Ying: Madam is truly remarkable!

Hua Sanduo: "..."

After recounting the familiar tropes of a concubine ascending to divine status and outlining the major dynamics of both the capital city and the imperial harem, though Yu Lian was far removed from the capital and ignorant of its inner workings, her parents and Li Xiang's letters in the past had given her a general understanding. Coupled with her deductions based on the story's plot, her grasp of the situation was fairly accurate.

Landlord Chen regarded Yu Lian as a precious treasure, his gaze filled with the hope of a savior. If possible, he naturally didn't wish to abandon the wealth and status he had meticulously planned for so long, nor did he want to sever ties with his daughter. As Yu Lian had pointed out, in the palace, any mishap could lead to disaster for the entire family – it was not something one could easily escape from.

Better to take a risk than be caught between two dangers; a landlord could become an influential relative, and a humble peasant transform into a precious golden gem.

The perspective and insights Yu Lian shared with him about the current situation in the capital, the palace intrigues, and her guidance on how her daughter should comport herself to win the Emperor's favor and navigate the perilous circumstances at hand genuinely touched Lord Chen's heart.

She even offered to take only seven out of ten instead of the usual eight. If her daughter could indeed win the Emperor's favor as Yu Lian suggested, elevating their entire family to prosperity, how could that be compared to mere farmland holdings?

Yu Lian accepted the offer with a sincere smile and added a piece of advice, "Stay humble in times of adversity, and avoid arrogance in moments of triumph." She knew from experience that the competitive world of wealth and status in the capital was treacherous, and she feared that if Chen's plan succeeded and his daughter became a favored concubine, he might become overbearing, only to face a harsh lesson later.

Exiting the Chen family's residence, Yu Lian now held a copy of their land registry. Chen had given her carte blanche to choose the lands she wanted and asked for a swift response so they could proceed with the transfer at the county office. Eager to avoid any mishaps involving his daughter, he was already anxious to depart for the capital.

Hua Sanduo had already held high expectations of his employer, but still found himself impressed by her breadth of influence. He realized that his own knowledge paled in comparison; his master truly lived up to her title, as even the purchase of land involved meddling in the imperial harem – a feat unparalleled in history.

Upon returning home, Hua Sanduo retreated while Zhu Ying took the children to practice martial arts. It was then that Hua Zhan softly spoke, prepared for a deep conversation, asking, "What are your thoughts, Lian'er?"

He hesitated, his expression profound and conflicted. He had already guessed part of the truth.

Sure enough, he saw his daughter-in-law lower her eyes, "I don't dare to mention the word 'revenge.' It was just a sudden impulse to avenge my husband in some small way."

"The last time I saw him, he was suffering terribly in prison, subjected to the cruel tortures of the Ministry of Justice's dungeon..." Yu Lian said, dabbing at the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief.

Hua Zhan's gaze darkened, and his fists clenched slightly.

Fortunately, Hua'er was blessed with good fortune, discovering the emperor and Seventh Prince's plot early on and making preparations, thus surviving the ordeal. If there was ever an opportunity in the future...

Just being alive was enough.

But then his face froze. He knew that his eldest son was still alive, which gave him some hope,

but what about his daughter-in-law?

She held deep feelings for his eldest son. Knowing that her beloved was gone and could never return, her act of revenge seemed like a petty thought of a young woman, but how much despair and pain did it entail?

Even though he hadn't experienced such pain himself, he knew that before learning of his eldest son's survival, his heart had felt as dead as ashes. So, what must his daughter-in-law be feeling now? Despite her usual resilience, was she still carrying the immense burden of loss?

For a moment, he almost blurted out the truth about his eldest son still being alive!

But at the last moment, he held back.

After intercepting Zhu Ying's letter during the New Year celebration, they had rewritten and sent it back. It had been two or three months since then, yet they had yet to receive a reply from their eldest son. He was worried that either Hua'er hadn't received the letter or was too busy to respond.

Either scenario filled him with concern. Even though he had learned from Zhu Ying that his eldest son was alive, without seeing his reply or having a genuine conversation with him, he couldn't truly set his mind at ease.

If he wasn't even certain himself... wouldn't Yu Lian be even more heartbroken if she found out and her hopes were dashed again? Besides, he wasn't sure what Hua Ji was thinking, whether he should reveal the truth to his daughter-in-law...

After much deliberation, he suppressed his impulse.

He let out a long sigh and said, "You have a kind heart." These few simple words conveyed the full extent of his complicated emotions.

Yu Lian felt that her father-in-law had been acting strange lately. This feeling had started since New Year's Day, and today it was particularly noticeable.

But she didn't dwell on it, assuming that her father-in-law was simply experiencing mixed emotions when thinking of his eldest son.

Before dinner, the whole family gathered in the main room. Yu Lian took out the landowner Chen's ledger and began discussing which plots of land they should purchase.

Certainly, purchasing land was a good thing, beneficial for the prosperity of the entire family. However, with only those ten acres of barren land, it might still be challenging to maintain their livelihood if there were no profits from business ventures. Nevertheless, the matriarch asked, "Doesn't Lian'er have other business plans in mind?" The matriarch understood Yu Lian's intentions and worried that if her granddaughter-in-law invested in land, she would not be able to continue her business, potentially derailing her progress.

Yu Lian smiled and replied, "There's always a time for business, but good land is hard to come by."

In this era of private land ownership, although land transactions were prevalent, families usually refrained from selling unless it was a matter of great importance. Landowners like Mrs. Chen wouldn't easily part with their land. If Yu Lian wished to acquire prime plots, luck would play a significant role, and securing the high-quality fields of the Chen family would be even more challenging.

Moreover, Mrs. Chen had agreed to sell at a discount of 70% under pressure from others and Yu Lian's kindness – a price as low as cabbage! This was an opportune moment to buy. Yu Lian saw this as a golden chance to become a small landowner!

The only issue now was the lack of funds in her possession. Otherwise, she would love to snatch up all of Mrs. Chen's land in one go.

Scanning the ledger, Yu Lian confirmed that the Chen family's land was indeed coveted by local gentry and even the county magistrate. There were over four hundred prime acres, not including the moderate to inferior plots. In total, there were more than ten hundred acres.

Considering that one hundred acres equaled one hundred mu, this would amount to over a thousand mu, wouldn't it?

Yu Lian focused solely on the prime fields, ignoring the lower grades. A superior mu was typically valued at around eight strings of coins, while the government imposed a land transfer tax of thirteen strings (typical of their greed). Disregarding the tax, acquiring one hundred mu would cost five hundred and sixty taels at the discounted price. Factoring in emergency reserves and capital for business operations, she could afford to purchase a maximum of three hundred mu, falling short of the over four hundred mu of premium land.

Yu Lian shared these details with the matriarch and the others, waiting for their input.

The matriarch had no objections; she trusted her granddaughter-in-law completely. Hua Zhan, Mrs. Chen, and the rest also left such matters to Yu Lian's judgment. Upon learning of Yu Lian's dilemma, they proposed a solution. "Since others can't buy his land, and those pressuring him won't sell to them, why not offer to manage the remaining plots for his family? Once we have enough money, we can gradually purchase them."

"At most, we'll offer some extra interest. Since he's in a hurry to leave and Yu Lian has given him an idea, you've done him a great favor. Perhaps he'll agree."

Yu Lian pondered carefully, her eyes sparkling. She turned with a smile, cuddling up to her grandmother's arm coquettishly. "Grandmother is so clever! How could I not have thought of that?"

The old lady chuckled, her cheeks trembling. "That's why Grandmother has eaten more salt than you've had meals. Back then, I managed a vast estate too. When problems arise, it's not about money, but adaptability. There are always more solutions than obstacles."

Yu Lian laughed. "You're absolutely right! With Grandmother and me joining forces, our family will become the largest landowner in town!"

And they would achieve this almost effortlessly! Yu Lian truly felt she had struck gold.

Afterward, the family finalized their plan to purchase the 300 acres of fertile land, awaiting the next day to negotiate with Landlord Chen.

Landlord Chen, however, couldn't sleep that night. He alternated between worry and anxiety, mulling over Yu Lian's words. He feared that his foolish daughter might fall prey to intrigue before they could reach the capital, becoming a sacrificial pawn.

He also worried that his carelessness might drag his family into trouble, leaving him with no chance to regret later.

Then, he considered Yu Lian's suggestion. If his daughter performed well and followed her advice, could she really rise to prominence one day? At that point, he wouldn't even dream of her becoming a concubine; he'd be grateful if she became a Noble Consort.

At the mere thought of it, he trembled with excitement and couldn't fall asleep.

His wife asked him what was wrong. "Why are you shaking so much that the bed is moving too?"

Landowner Chen burst into laughter. "Our family has encountered a noble person!" Then, he grew worried. "But what if it doesn't go as the noble person said, and we don't gain the Emperor's favor? What if we end up offending the Empress and the Concubine?"

His wife replied, "If you believe them, follow their advice. If not, you know the severity of those words. We should just pack our bags and run before anything happens. With silver in hand, there's nowhere in this vast world we can't find shelter."

Landowner Chen: "..." His wife was even more ruthless than he was.

Regardless, they couldn't stay here any longer. They either had to escape before being implicated by their daughter or take a gamble and turn from landlords into imperial relatives.

In any case, the land had to be sold, and quickly! They couldn't remain in this place of trouble, their old nest.

So, when Yu Lian paid a visit the next day, Landowner Chen's eyes were rimmed with dark circles. When Yu Lian offered to manage the remaining land for her, he didn't hesitate much but expressed his difficulty. "I'd be willing, but I need to acquire a residence in the capital and also provide some silver for my daughter...," implying that he was in urgent need of money. If Yu Lian could only provide cash for three hundred acres now, it would clearly be insufficient.

Yu Lian pondered for a moment and said, "There's no rush to buy a house right now. If you go to the capital and hastily purchase one, it might give the impression that you're eager to attach yourself to the royal family. That won't bode well if it reaches the Emperor's ears. Instead, it would be better to rent a residence first. It would be low-key, fitting your status, and secondly, if your daughter gains the Emperor's favor in the future, he will likely grant you a mansion, so there's no need to rush into buying one."

"Moreover, the Emperor might show even more affection for Concubine Chen if he learns that you have nowhere to live. Sometimes, showing vulnerability to those in power can be the best strategy to win favor."

Landowner Chen was utterly impressed by Yu Lian's wit and wisdom. Goodness, she truly lived up to her status as the daughter of the Wei Duke's residence. Her arguments were compelling, leaving him convinced. He no longer felt rushed or flustered; he agreed to her proposal without hesitation.

He declared that he would formally transfer all the land to the Hua family, but they must settle the payment promptly, ideally within half a year, with interest deposited in the moneylender's shop. He would collect it himself when the time came.

Yu Lian consented. Six months was neither too long nor too short, but she was confident in raising the thousand taels of silver. When the court became even more chaotic and the emperor was preoccupied, she could seize the opportunity to introduce a soap-like product for sale, without drawing undue attention.

However, there was still an issue at hand: how to transfer ownership of such extensive lands?

My dear male lead, your wife is about to give your venture a little nudge... ^_^

"Darlings, the revisions are complete."

Chapter 93 - An Agreement Established

◎ We've become the largest landowner in town! ◇

From the very beginning, Yu Lian had a plan for this.

Throughout history, power was paramount, and in these times, it loomed like a towering mountain. No matter how wealthy the local merchants were or how influential the local officials, they all feared the nobles from the capital the most.

Though the capital seemed far away, if one offended those in power there, it would be effortless for them to take action against you.

Yu Lian had previously deceived Lady Li into investing by leveraging the prestige of a powerful figure, and now she intended to do so again. As the old saying goes, a tactic need not be novel as long as it works.

Lady Li had already bought into Yu Lian's story, believing her to be the sixth young miss of the Wei Duke's residence, with a father who was the legitimate youngest son of the household. She knew that Yu Lian hailed from an esteemed background, one that could not be trifled with.

As for the fact that the Wei Duke's residence held a title without actual power, and that her father was a low-ranking official with a strained relationship with the family, these details were beyond Lady Li's reach to discover.

The name of the Wei Duke's residence carried weight in their rural town and distant county. By linking the land purchase to the prestigious household, no local magnate would dare to seize it by force, and the county magistrate would be too afraid to offend the high-ranking family in the capital by refusing the transfer of ownership.

It might even require exempting part of the land transfer tax to please the Wei Duke's estate.

Thus, Yu Lian imitated her parents' handwriting and wrote a letter, stating that her parents had entrusted her with helping the Wei Duke's family purchase land. In this age of private land ownership, land transactions were rampant, with numerous large and small landowners. Especially among the noble clans, it was common to acquire lands in various regions.

Yu Lian's explanation seemed reasonable, but it caused Lady Li to frown. She didn't doubt Yu Lian's words; instead, she was troubled because her family had already joined forces with other clans and the county magistrate to seize these lands. Now, an unexpected obstacle had appeared—what should they do?

At that moment, a young man behind Yu Lian spoke, "Sixth Miss, Madam has asked that you expedite this matter so I can report back to the capital."

Yu Lian looked at Lady Li with a troubled expression. "I have already approached Landowner Chen, but he seems to be facing difficulties. Lady Li is known for your astuteness—could you offer some guidance?"

Lady Li glanced at the man behind Yu Lian. He carried a sword, wore a black martial attire with the emblem of the Wei Duke's estate embroidered on the collar. This person was likely sent by the Wei Duke's family to handle the matter.

If only Yu Lian were here, Lady Li could have found an excuse or sought another solution. However, with the Wei Duke's family sending someone personally, if the purchase failed, and they complained, would the distant Wei Duke's estate send someone to deal with them?

Rumor had it that the Wei Duke's eldest legitimate son held a high-ranking second-class official position in the court.

It would be effortless for them to retaliate, and even the county magistrate couldn't afford to offend the Wei Duke's family.

A shrewd person like Lady Li understood that Yu Lian's subtle mention of Landowner Chen's difficulties hinted that he, fueled by his hatred for them, might have disclosed every detail. Both Yu Lian and this envoy from the Wei Duke's estate were likely aware that Landowner Chen couldn't sell his land due to their collusion with the county magistrate to acquire it at a low price.

She rubbed her temples in distress and forced a smile, saying, "Is that so? I was unaware. I'll speak to my husband about it and ask him to consult the county magistrate. If there are any difficulties, considering we're neighbors, we would be willing to assist, given Mr. Chen's family has been operating here for two generations."

Yu Lian smiled slightly and praised, "Madam Li truly embodies noble virtue. The Li family is indeed the scholarly merchant household that the common people describe, known for their benevolence."

After flattering Madam Li, she left the Li residence accompanied by her "servant from the Wei Duke's mansion," heading back to Upper Village.

The moment Zhu Ying stepped into the carriage, he tore off his disguise. A layer of artificial skin had concealed his true face, which was now revealed.

With excitement in his tone, he exclaimed, "Miss... Miss Lian, what a brilliant tactic!" He almost slipped and called her 'Young Lady.'

Zhu Ying secretly smacked his forehead and chuckled. "You are indeed remarkable!"

The plan was straightforward. The Young Lady had asked him to pretend to be an envoy from the Wei Duke's mansion to gain the trust of several influential families and the county magistrate, urging them to abandon their plans to hoard land. This way, she could quickly complete the land transfer and send the Chen family to the capital sooner.

Initially, the Young Lady hadn't intended for him to transform into someone else. However, Zhu Ying came up with the idea of using disguise. It would be less likely for them to be exposed, so he donned the disguise and accompanied the Young Lady in their staged performance.

The following day, Mr. Chen sent a messenger to find Yu Lian, urging her to proceed with the transfer promptly. The county magistrate had informed him that there were no issues with the land, and it was ready for sale.

Although Mr. Chen was unaware of the method Yu Lian employed, he knew that she hailed from an esteemed family and must have some influence. His priority was to sell the land and leave as soon as possible, avoiding any potential complications that might arise over time.

Yu Lian and her father-in-law spent the entire day running around, finally managing to transfer the land ownership. To their delight, Landlord Chen seemed to trust that she wouldn't abscond, transferring all his lands into her name with a private contract, giving her half a year to pay off the balance.

The county office didn't pose any obstacles either. Although the land was registered under Yu Lian's name rather than the Wei Duke's residence, it wasn't implausible for a daughter's family to provide some fields for their daughter who had married into rural hardship.

Considering this, Yu Lian's newfound importance made her even more untouchable.

If Yu Lian knew that County Magistrate Li and others were thinking along these lines, she might award them the Best Imagination Prize.

Landlord Chen's family had long packed their belongings. Valuables were sold, while indispensable items were brought along. They also sold their mansion. Initially, he had asked Yu Lian if she wanted it, but she declined. She lacked extra silver and didn't wish to take on more debt. Besides, the large courtyard in Upper Village suited her well, and moving to town would bring inconvenience and less safety.

The day after the transfer, Landlord Chen hired an escort from a security agency. Yu Lian bade them farewell. He bombarded her with questions about the capital, all of which she had already explained. Worried about forgetting, he repeatedly asked before hesitating to say something but ultimately keeping quiet.

What could he say? Could he ask if they could seek help from the Wei Duke's residence in case of trouble? He decided against it. Landlord Chen didn't have such influence. Not only did they end up in the countryside due to difficulties, but he and Yu Lian also didn't have a close relationship. Their connection was based on favors and business transactions. Moreover, Yu Lian had provided advice and information; logically, he owed her. He couldn't casually establish connections; otherwise, he wouldn't know how he'd meet his end.

As Landlord Chen's family departed, Yu Lian watched for a while. She didn't know if they would fuel the emperor's fire, but her purpose of buying land had been fulfilled. Her landlord's dream had been achieved in her second year here!

For a moment, even with her usual composure, the thought of owning thousands of acres lit her eyes with excitement, a captivating flush tingeing the corners.

She returned to the village and her home with light, joyful steps, her entrance carrying a touch of girlish playfulness.

The elder matriarch couldn't help but smile affectionately and inquire about the reason for her joy.

Yu Lian rushed over, embracing the elder's arm, and happily said, "Our family has become the largest landowner in town!"

"We'll have endless food to eat and countless clothes to wear. We no longer need to live in fear."

As she spoke, Yu Lian felt a slight tingling at the tip of her nose, and she suddenly realized the immense pressure she had been under. She had taken on the mess left behind by her original body, determinedly preparing to lead this large family of antagonists away from the troubles of the capital city to an entirely unfamiliar place.

Unconsciously, she had been under stress every day, focusing on how to earn money and survive in this era with dignity and ease.

Now that she had achieved her goal, those pent-up pressures were finally being acknowledged by her.

Silence fell after the granddaughter finished speaking, puzzling the elder. Looking over, she noticed her granddaughter's reddened eyes and the tears silently slipping down her fair and pretty cheeks.

Alarmed, she called out, "Lian'er, Lian'er?"

"What happened? Did someone wrong you?"

Yu Lian sniffled, feeling a bit embarrassed. With a rare display of vulnerability, she confided in her grandmother as a young girl might, "Lian'er just momentarily recalled the hardships our family faced when we moved here last year, and how, for this entire year, we had no land, no food, no home – everything required money, everything needed to be replaced. Lian'er is useless; I often couldn't sleep at night, fearing that Grandmother, Father, Mother, and my three younger siblings would go hungry, following me as we struggled through life... But now, we have so much land. Even if our business fails, it doesn't matter; we can still provide for all of you."

The old lady felt a pang of sadness in her heart, and she started to cry as well. She picked up a clean handkerchief to gently wipe her granddaughter-in-law's face before using it on herself. Holding Yu Lian's hand, she was overwhelmed with mixed emotions, looking at her with both affection and guilt: "Grandmother had no idea you were carrying such a heavy burden."

"Sigh... originally, it was already our fault that you came into this family, between your parents and me. Hua'er has wronged you, and now you've had to endure so much pressure. It's only now that you can finally catch a breath. Grandmother should not have let this happen."

She sighed, "Why must you suffer, Lian'er?"

By now, Yu Lian's emotions had somewhat stabilized. She replied, "It was Lian'er who suggested bringing all of you back to our rural ancestral home. If any of you were to suffer or go hungry without being able to live in peace, then that would truly be my fault."

These were Yu Lian's sincere words. She could order others around, exploit them, or deceive for her goals, but regardless, she would take responsibility for her decisions. She had brought these people to the countryside to escape the chaos of the plot and the complexities of the capital, to live a freer and more carefree life in this era. In her scheme, this family had become her allies, and thus, she had to take responsibility for their well-being, ensuring they survived with food and shelter.

Upon hearing this, the old lady clung tightly to her granddaughter-in-law, wondering what good deeds her family had done to deserve such a wonderful girl to love their grandson. Moreover, out of concern for Hua'er, she had taken great care of them all. She knew that if not for Lian'er, their family might have already been destroyed.

Meanwhile, Hua Zhan's eldest son, Hua Ji, who had been deeply worried, finally received the letter they had sent during the New Year. He immediately recognized the military code his father had taught him.

It's coming, it's almost over. The male lead will soon make his appearance.

Chapter 94: Replying Letter ◇

◎If she were alive... he would see her with his own eyes. ◎

The Lingnan region, a remote and desolate corner of the land, is sparsely populated and plagued by bandits. It has long been a territory that military strategists have deemed unworthy of contention.

Hua Ji, however, chose to take the opposite approach.

He has established this place as his stronghold, spending over half a year to build a mountain fortress here, using it as a base for training and assembling his troops.

Amidst these mountainous terrains, venomous creatures and treacherous miasma abounded, making it a perilous place for anyone unfamiliar with the area, except for the native villagers.

Yet, Hua Ji and his followers had established a village that housed over ten thousand people right in the heart of one such great mountain. Surrounded by towering peaks on all sides, the village was naturally fortified, virtually impregnable, and largely unknown to the outside world. Most of its inhabitants were robust young men and women.

At this moment, in the central courtyard of the village, a group of men sat in two orderly rows. They were led by a youthful, refined man dressed in a simple green robe. With lowered eyes and furrowed brows, his face resembled fine jade, and a faint crease between his eyebrows hinted at either displeasure or deep contemplation.

The bearded man reporting to him immediately fell silent, sensing the tension.

Amidst the gentle spring breeze carrying the warm scent of blooming peaches, a young man hurried into the courtyard. He was named Zhu Qing, with an upright countenance and demeanor. His composed expression and reserved nature spoke volumes without the need for words.

First, they bowed to the master seated in the prominent position, then handed Hua Ji an unopened small letter tube retrieved from a homing pigeon's leg, whispering a few words into his ear.

The crease between the man's brows smoothed instantly, his eyes shimmering with a warm glow. His long-serving shadowy subordinates understood the unspoken message and fell silent, prepared to be dismissed by their master mid-discussion. They knew this was likely a letter from home, and on such occasions, their master would send them away until he had finished reading and responding to it.

It had been months since any news had come from that side; how could their master not be anxious?

But this time, the matter seemed more urgent. They wondered whether their master would read the letter first or finish the discussion before doing so.

In the Lingnan region, bandits ran rampant, and the indigenous people were stubbornly resistant, fiercely barbaric. The common folk lived in tribes, far removed from the central court's jurisdiction. The provincial governors sent by the court either lacked authority or met untimely deaths. The previous one had died from "insect poisoning," and over a year had passed without the court appointing a replacement.

It was precisely because of this vulnerability that they chose this place to nurture their forces. However, a month ago, unexpected news emerged: after a year's delay, the court had finally dispatched a new Governor of Lingnan, who would arrive in just two days.

They were in the midst of discussing strategies to deal with this new governor. If they didn't handle him promptly, and he discovered the existence of their village, the information might reach the court, leading to military intervention. Even though this area was difficult to conquer, discovery would invite significant trouble.

After all, their master held a unique identity.

The original shadowy subordinates remained silent, awaiting their master's instructions with a tacit understanding. In contrast, the newer advisors and underlings were utterly perplexed.

What's going on?

Duo De was a young counselor who had pledged his allegiance halfway through, with the appearance of a delicate scholar, thin physique, and pale complexion, as if his days were numbered.

He patted the person next to him and asked what was happening.

The one beside him was a fellow from the covert intelligence unit. This brother, also part of the "Bamboo" generation, was named Zhu Xin. It was he who had delivered the news of the imperial governor's arrival.

Zhu Xin made a face and gestured for silence, indicating that Duo De should not speak. Seeing that Duo De was still confused, he whispered, "The Master's letter from home has arrived!"

A letter from home?

Duo De muttered to himself. He had assumed that his master was likely a lonely figure. After following him for several months, he had never met any family members. Suddenly, a letter from home appeared out of the blue.

He asked softly, "Is it from the Lady?"

Zhu Xin: "…Sort of." The letter wasn't technically from the master's family but from Zhu Ying. However, rumors had it that Zhu Ying, that young man, had defected and become an ardent admirer of the Lady. If he were the one who wrote the letter, chances were high that it would be filled with tales about the Young Lady. So, in a way, saying it was from the Young Lady wouldn't be entirely wrong – at least half-right.

Duo De was startled once again. His master had a lady?

He focused his gaze and saw the man sitting at the head of the room, as elegant as jade, tearing open the letter tube and pulling out its contents.

He unfolded the letter slowly, and Duo De noticed a slight tremble in his master's index finger. For a fleeting moment, a ripple appeared in his starry eyes before they turned as deep as ink.

His voice was usually mild and low, but now it descended even further as he called for them to withdraw.

Duo De retreated slowly, not daring to spare another glance, and followed Zhu Xin out. He was curious; what kind of woman could make the future monarch he had chosen so preoccupied? If his lord's great undertaking succeeded, would sentimentality hinder his progress?

Zhu Xin: "..." That's why it's not good for scholars to have too many thoughts. Overactive imagination is a problem that needs addressing.

The familiar handwriting and long-lost code on the letter made Hua Ji's fingertips tremble slightly. He quickly scanned down the page. There wasn't much written on the first sheet – his father had never been a verbose man. Even when corresponding with his resurrected eldest son, who he had been deeply concerned about, his words were concise, without a single superfluous phrase.

First, he asked where Hua Ji was, what he was doing, and if he was in danger. Then, he exhorted him to prioritize safety above all else. If his life was at risk, he should abandon his endeavors early on, even if it meant living under an assumed name. As long as the whole family could be together, what was there to object to?

He had long since seen through power and fame. A year of change and a tranquil rural life had transformed the once-power-hungry War God Marquis into an ordinary father, son, and husband who cared only for his family's well-being. Now that his eldest son had returned from the dead, his own heart had come back to life. How could he not cherish him and watch him engage in perilous pursuits?

At the end, the tone shifted, and his father's strictness emerged in the question: "Your wife is currently waiting for you at home, unaware that you are still alive! How long do you plan to keep this a secret? I'm sure you're already aware of everything she has done for you. Let me warn you, Hua'er, don't let her down."

The word "wife" was strangely foreign, yet for some reason, it felt like a honey-coated dagger piercing his heart, making his heartbeat accelerate and warmth rush to his ears. He felt an itch in his fingertips.

He couldn't help but lessen his grip, and in that instant, the two letters slipped from his fingers and fell to the ground. He lowered his gaze, took a few breaths, and bent down to retrieve them.

Thus, the second page of the letter also fell into view.

This page was written by Zhu Ying. He was too lazy to rephrase, so he began with a submissive account of how the Marquis discovered his master was still alive. The rest of the text was largely a copy of the letter intercepted by the Marquis on New Year's Eve.

Zhu Ying, having recently mastered the art of secret messaging, had written her words in a clumsy, uneven script that made the man laugh in exasperation.

Especially the subtly yet piercing lines that questioned the very core of his conscience made him crumple the corner of the letter in agitation.

A father's disappointment, a subordinate's concern – both regarded him as a heartless man, fearing he would betray the "wife" at home.

The thought of that title and the woman who bore it stirred his mind, causing a moment of profound silence.

Having lived through another life, Hua Ji claimed to have seen through the intricacies of human nature and was well-acquainted with the true characters of those he had encountered before. Yet, this "wife" remained an enigma to him.

In his previous life, after his military defeat, he and his entire family were imprisoned. To spare them from the fate of decapitation, he voluntarily surrendered all his power, including the secret underground network he had established since his teenage years.

He naively believed that by surrendering his power, the new emperor, seeing them no longer as a threat and wishing to demonstrate his mercy, would spare their lives, allowing the whole family to survive. He was unwilling to let his failure bring harm to his grandmother and mother, for that would be the ultimate disrespect.

However, he never expected that the new emperor would indeed display his benevolence and magnanimity by sentencing them all to a three-thousand-mile exile. Secretly, he dispatched skilled assassins disguised as bandits to kill them along the way.

At that time, both he and his father were subjected to harsh torture in prison, their bones shattered, bound in chains, leaving them defenseless against the killers. They helplessly watched as their entire family was slaughtered, unable to intervene.

He died filled with hatred, yet unexpectedly gained a second chance at life. But the timing of his regained memories was too late. If only it had come a day or two earlier, he could have altered the current emperor's reign and avenged his past grievances.

In haste, he chose to save his family by faking his death, planning for future schemes.

Everything unfolded according to his plan, except for one unexpected turn: his former fiancée, the Sixth Miss of the Wei Duke's residence.

In his previous life, she had died even before him, just as his family was escorted out of prison for exile. Along the journey, he heard the citizens discussing how the Sixth Miss of the Wei Duke's household, his former betrothed, had failed to seduce the emperor and was expelled from the palace, disgracing herself to the point of suicide in the city moat.

The Wei Duke's residence publicly announced that the Sixth Miss had succumbed to an illness, adamantly denying that the body in the moat was hers. Only the third branch of the family suddenly severed ties with the Wei Duke's residence, retrieved their daughter's corpse, and retreated into seclusion. The couple resigned their official positions and disappeared with their youngest son, leaving no trace behind.

In both lifetimes, this woman had trampled on his dignity and subjected him to immense humiliation. The only difference between the two was that in one, she chose to enter the palace to "seduce" the emperor, only to be cast out and meet a disgraceful end. In the other, she chose to take her own life on the day of his execution, wearing her wedding attire, severing ties with the Wei Duke's residence to marry into his family and care for his elderly, weak, and female relatives. The entire capital praised her deep affection and loyalty, even composing ballads that spread throughout the land.

The disparity between the two is like that between heaven and earth.

Hua Ji, who prides himself on his astuteness, has yet to see through her after all this time.

For so long, Zhu Ying's letters have been filled with praise for that woman, making her seem like her most devoted admirer. She genuinely regards her as her young lady, and if even her loyal subordinate feels this way, how much more so her family, whom she cares for deeply?

It's likely that his parents, grandmother, and younger siblings also share a deep bond with her. Zhu Ying mentioned that she has taken excellent care of the whole family. Whenever any of the three younger siblings have an issue, they would seek their sister-in-law first. His father even wrote to warn him not to take his wife for granted.

Hua Ji lowers his gaze, his eyes landing once again on the poem. He softly utters the final line aloud: "In spring, recognize the butterflies in twosome..."

How can one pen such heartfelt verses if their feelings are false?

And why would she indulge in solitary drunkenness in her chamber on a moonless night if she has ulterior motives? Whom is she trying to deceive?

But if it's genuine...

Why is there such a vast difference between the same person across two lifetimes?

There must be a reason, and that reason undoubtedly lies with Yu Lian. Given her cowardice and love for status, could it be that, like him, she has been reborn into this world?

Yet, that didn't make sense either. In her previous life, Yu Lian had passed away before him. To her, he was merely a defeated captive awaiting death. Even if her soul had wandered for a long time like his, she should be aware that he perished during his exile.

What could there possibly be to gain from him?

Hua Ji dismissed this conjecture himself, but he knew the issue still lied with Yu Lian.

He dared not entertain that possibility – if it were true... if there were hidden reasons behind everything, if she genuinely cared for him with all her heart, that boundless joy...

What made him worthy of such affection?...

His icy heart softened abruptly, only to be swiftly snuffed out as he forcefully cut off such thoughts.

But in that moment, he became acutely aware of his true feelings.

He crumpled Zhu Ying's letter and tossed it into the box.

When he picked up his pen, his heart was locked tight, and his response to both his father and Zhu Ying's inquiry about revealing his survival to Yu Lian was an unwavering and cold rejection.

He declared himself an un filial son, asking his father to believe he was already dead. He requested three years; if he succeeded in his endeavors, he would return to confess and explain. If he failed, it would mean his life as the price, rendering everything else insignificant.

Should she still be alive... he intends to see her with his own eyes.

Let us see whether the depths of her heart are colored with red of virtue or the black of malice.

Hua Ji: My beloved, declare your love for me swiftly! You are not allowed to not love me! Not allowed, I say!

Laughter echoed as I typed, but for some inexplicable reason, my pen seemed to stumble whenever the male lead was involved. Keen observers might have noticed that every time I attempt to portray his entrance, my updates come to an abrupt halt - due to writer's block! This chapter has undergone three revisions (ten thousand words) and yet, I continue to rewrite it! Ah, what frustration!

What is love in this world, that it drives one to tear their hair out in frustration?

Chapter 95: Flower Messenger ◇

◎Lian'er, alas, I shall never see you again in this life! ◎

Upon a dusty, official road thirty leagues away from Lingnan, a thousand-strong detachment of elite soldiers marched on. At their center was a well-dressed young man riding a white horse.

The youth's brow was beaded with sweat, and faint red marks could be seen on his fair complexion, evidence of sunburn amidst the dust that had settled on him. He looked weary and disheveled, a picture of exhaustion.

He called for a halt.

The entourage halted their journey.

A devoted servant approached with a water flask and beef jerky, expressing his concern, "My Lord, please have some sustenance. We still have quite a distance to reach the inn."

The servant couldn't help but grind his teeth at the desolate landscape. This wasn't even southern China, yet it was already dreadfully barren. The previous inn they encountered had been abandoned due to long-term neglect.

The next one would likely be in the same state...

They were all rugged men accustomed to roughing it, but it was pitiful for the young lord who had fallen from grace. Once the cherished younger son of the noble Ru Yang Marquis, the younger brother of the esteemed Empress, and the young inspector of the Supreme Court! Now, he was the governor of this remote, uncivilized region in Lingnan!

Who in this world doesn't know that this land is infested with venomous creatures and miasma, its people fierce and ungovernable, with bandits as numerous as the hairs on an ox, poverty rampant, and arable land scarce? What accomplishments could one possibly achieve by taking office here?

Worse still, since the founding of our dynasty, no Governor has ever left this post unscathed!

All have perished in foreign lands, save for one who, it is said, survived only because he was too old to care about anything and his son married into a prominent local family.

The previous Governor passed away a year ago, yet no official in the court would accept the position, even if it meant giving up their career. The Ministry of Personnel was plagued with headaches all year round. Every individual appointed either claimed illness, resigned, or begged for connections to avoid the post.

In any case, the court couldn't do much about this region; sending a Governor was futile; it merely served as a declaration that this land belonged to them. So, let it linger.

It never occurred to anyone that this miserable assignment would fall upon their own pampered young lord, who had never known hardship.

He was doing just fine as the Junior Censor of the Supreme Court, and the Imperial Concubine's soon-to-be-born prince was almost due. Yet, at this crucial moment, the young lord was dispatched to the frontier.

It all boiled down to the intrigue within the harem. A new beauty had recently emerged, reportedly the daughter of a rural landowner, without rank or influence, but she had ensnared the Emperor's heart and stirred up trouble in the palace. This time, she aligned with the Empress to outmaneuver the Concubine. As a result, the blowback fell on the favorite younger brother of the Concubine.

The Father-in-Law spoke of it as a golden opportunity: a chance for the young and capable to shine, three years as Governor, followed by promotions, a promising future ahead – a great fortune for both the Ru Yang Marquis and the Imperial Concubine.

Indeed, in another place, with the young lord's status, he could effortlessly gain accolades and return to a higher rank. But where was he being sent now?

That was the infamous Southern Frontier! A place where one went but never returned, where the governor's appointment was like throwing a meat bun to a pack of hungry dogs, causing all officials in the imperial court to pale with fear at its mention – Lingnan!

Would he even survive his tenure here?

Was this an attempt to save his son's life by having him marry into a local family?

The young servant thought to himself, his eyes turning red with emotion.

Finishing his water, Li Xiang dismounted and casually threw the flask behind him. Surprisingly, his usually nimble personal attendant failed to catch it, and it clattered to the ground with a metallic ring.

Li Xiang turned back to see the servant with reddened eyes, his face filled with anxiety and distress.

A muscle twitched at the corner of Li Xiang's mouth. "What are you thinking about?"

"I'm thinking how unfortunate it is for Young Master to be sent to such a place. I don't know what the future holds for him..."

"How could Empress Concubine bear to do this!"

Li Xiang shot a sharp glance at him. "Don't mention my sister."

"Well, they've come, so what? I don't believe these common folk are that fierce, capable of devouring me?"

"Not only are the people fierce, but there are also bandits..."

"If there are bandits, we'll subdue them. I brought a thousand elite soldiers with me. How could we not defeat a mere bunch of bandits?"

No sooner had he finished speaking than a shower of arrows rained down from all directions. A group of masked men in rough clothing surrounded them.

Li Xiang drew his sword and struggled to fend off the onslaught of arrows.

This servant's cursed mouth, it seemed, had indeed spoken the truth. He mentioned bandits, and they appeared.

Li Xiang had assumed these were ordinary bandits, skilled in some basic martial arts. With a thousand elite soldiers at his disposal, how could he not overcome them?

After a short fight, he realized these were no ordinary bandits – they were madmen, like rabid dogs and wolves. They were swift and ruthless. In just a brief span, nearly half of his soldiers were lost, and several of his personal guards protecting him were either dead or injured. In that moment, Li Xiang found himself vulnerable. A nimble bandit suddenly swooped in from the side, thrusting his sword straight towards Li Xiang's face.

All thoughts fled from Li Xiang's mind. He believed his end was near, that he would die young on his way to his new post, without realizing his ambitions or fulfilling his love. With reddened eyes, he desperately cried out, "Lian'er! Lian'er, I'll never see you again! I didn't even get the chance to tell you..."

The sword suddenly changed its trajectory, piercing his shoulder.

Li Xiang lost consciousness.

Seizing the tail end of spring plowing, Yu Lian planted all the land she had purchased. The moderately fertile fields were sown with millet and wheat, while the less fertile ones were cultivated with barley. Though selling barley at market price might not be profitable, she contemplated using it for brewing alcohol, which would prove to be a lucrative business. The more, the better.

Barley, not being picky about soil, yielded significantly higher than fine grains like wheat and millet. It was indeed an adaptable and productive crop that won Yu Lian's favor.

Devoted to her landowning duties, she would often inspect the tenant farmers working in their fields, even arranging for barley tea to be brewed and distributed among them, much to their delight, as they affectionately addressed her as "Young Miss Landlady."

Yu Lian never bothered to clarify that legally, despite being unmarried, she was still a maiden, but not an innocent one. She was, in fact, a widow, albeit a rather proactive and unconventional one...

She surmised that the villagers of Shangyi referred to her as Miss Lian because they understood the circumstances of her marriage to Hua Ji. They avoided using his family name to avoid stirring up sadness, instead opting to call her "Miss," acknowledging that she was still technically an unmarried maiden.

Recalling a local custom, she remembered how her late mother-in-law, Mrs. Chen, was often referred to by the women of the village as "Woodenhead's wife." Typically, people would use a person's nickname followed by 'family's.' So, if they were to follow this custom with her, Hua Ji's nickname, which she recalled her grandmother mentioning was "Flower Child."

Wouldn't that be like calling her "Flower Child"?

At the thought of this nickname, a smile lit up her beautiful eyes, and she couldn't help but chuckle.

This little name was indeed rather endearing.

She strolled back home slowly. By the time she arrived, lunch had already been prepared. The whole family sat around the table to eat together. Today was unusual; Hua Zhan, her father-in-law, who was usually the family's biggest eater, and Zhu Ying, were both absent.

After asking everyone at the table, no one knew where they were. It was the twins who finally spoke up, "Master said he and Father went to the back mountain to practice swordsmanship."

The matriarch scolded playfully, "Not eating at noon and practicing with empty stomachs? They must be bored!"

Saying that, she dismissed the matter and simply told her granddaughter-in-law, daughter-in-law, and three children to enjoy their meal. After all, the two grown men weren't fools; they'd know to come back when hungry.

The family didn't think much of it, and Yu Lian wasn't surprised either. It was common for martial artists to enjoy practicing swordplay, often sparring on a whim. Especially since the beginning of the new year, her father-in-law seemed to have transformed, filled with even more vitality. He frequently sought out Zhu Ying to practice together.

In the small forest on the back mountain.

The two men sat side by side, opening a letter.

Zhu Ying glanced at the letter with a pout of grievance. Her master had forgotten about her with his father's return; there were no instructions for her, only messages for the Duke.

Hua Zhan frowned as he read, his expression remaining locked in a scowl. He sighed deeply, "Rebellious child."

He could understand why his eldest son didn't want him to reveal his survival to his daughter-in-law and the rest of the family. If he were in his shoes, he wouldn't want them to worry again before he was safely back. To give them hope just to dash it later - no one could bear that.

But his eldest son was unwilling to abandon his quest for revenge, planning to continue his struggle against the emperor and asking for three more years. How could anyone possibly overthrow an emperor with such power in just three years?

Granted, the empire was plagued with corruption, heavy taxes, greedy officials, and external threats, but it was still relatively peaceful. The current emperor was only in the third generation of his lineage, and based on historical patterns, the throne could conceivably be passed down for another three or four generations. Rarely did dynasties last so briefly...

Hua'er not only wanted to challenge a formidable force, but also defy fate itself. Did he truly not care about his family, about his wife?

Silently, he picked up Zhu Ying's sword and began slashing through the air in the forest like raindrops. Half an hour passed before he finally stopped. The once-verdant woods now stood barren.

Zhu Ying ventured cautiously, "Duke...?"

Hua Zhan let out a long sigh, "Do not write to them anymore. Treat Hua Ji as if he never existed."

With no way to reach his eldest son across vast distances, he would grant him these three years, pretending he was dead. In three years, if he should perish, Hua Zhan vowed to traverse mountains and rivers to retrieve his body, giving Lian'er some closure.

If he were still alive...

...and returned home...

Hua Zhan smiled bitterly and shook his head. How could that be possible?

He had prepared himself for the possibility of his eldest son's failure, and even for losing him once again. It didn't matter; this time, at least, he was mentally prepared, and could personally tend to his son's burial.

As for his daughter-in-law, he had long treated her as his own daughter. He would do everything in his power to compensate her for his son's ingratitude while he still drew breath. If he could find a worthy man to entrust her to, he would rejoice for her.

Until now, he had been unsure of Hua'er's feelings towards Lian'er. The recent letter made no mention of her at all.

He let out a deep sigh and said, "Let's go."

Only then did Zhu Ying come back to his senses, indignant. "How can Master be like this? How can Master forget Young Lady, when she was so good to him...!"

The journey back was filled with his endless complaints and curses. Upon returning, the two men drowned their sorrows in a pot of wine.