Daily Life of the Main Lady

by Usui Takumii

not mine, asia novel dot net. Beware edited mtl. Ongoing.

3. 41 to 60

Chapter 41 Xing Dairong's Ace in the Hole

When Lady Yang said that, the lively private room fell silent.

Lady Jiang hadn't told her about that matter yet.

At this moment, Lu Lingyun spoke up, "Madam Luo, it's quite a coincidence. Our Prince and your son, Master Luo, are old friends."

"Really? That rascal hasn't mentioned anything to me!"

"But somehow, they've had a falling out recently," Lu Lingyun sipped her tea slowly.

Immediately, Lady Yang's face changed, her eyes filled with anger as she exclaimed, "What nonsense has that brat done now!"

"I don't know," Lu Lingyun feigned confusion. "A few days ago, someone went missing from our residence. Our Prince found him at Master Luo's place, and they had an unpleasant encounter. When he returned, he fell seriously ill. It seems there was some conflict."

Hearing this, Lady Yang frowned deeply and asked, "Who went missing from your residence?"

"Well, technically, it wasn't really someone from our residence. They weren't bound by a contract or given any position. To be honest, it was just a friend of our Prince, and the trouble was between friends."

Lady Yang grew more puzzled as she listened.

This involved a third friend?

Who could it be?

"Lady Yang." At this point, Lady Jiang spoke up. The nanny beside her took out Luo Heng's name inquiry card, and Lady Jiang pushed it back, "The day you sent the name inquiry card, my general scolded me. He said we shouldn't rush with Qiluo being our only daughter. After discussing it, we decided to keep Qiluo for a couple more years, so we won't delay Master Luo."

Seeing the name inquiry card returned, Lady Yang's eyes showed dissatisfaction. She was about to speak when Lu Lingyun added, "Madam Luo, you should go back and ask Master Luo if he has someone else in mind."

When Lu Lingyun said this, even if Lady Yang didn't understand before, she did now.

Lu Lingyun was telling her that her good-for-nothing son had taken someone away from her, and it was a woman!

It seemed that for this woman, he had offended many people.

"That good-for-nothing actually did something so outrageous! Just wait until I get my hands on him!"

Lady Yang stood up abruptly, glancing at the name inquiry card on the table. "Sister Jiang, I'm sorry about this. Once I find out what happened, I'll give you an explanation."

"There's no need. We were just having a casual conversation. It doesn't count as anything serious."

With these words, Lady Jiang dismissed the formal step of sending the name inquiry card as mere private talk, effectively clearing Wang Qiluo and Luo Heng of any engagement.

No rumors would spread after this.

Hearing this, Lady Yang's eyes flashed with a dark light. Finally, she forced a smile on her face. "I truly apologize. Let me treat you to dinner tomorrow to make amends. I'll leave now."

"Go ahead. Take care."

Lady Yang instructed the nanny to put away the name card and left the room in a hurry.

After they left, Lady Jiang looked at Lu Lingyun. "Lingyun, it seems Lady Yang really didn't know about this."

"Whether she knew or not, let's see what she does next." Lu Lingyun winked at Lady Jiang.

Lady Jiang nodded in agreement. "You're right. Regardless, I will never allow Qiluo to marry her son."

Lu Lingyun chuckled at this.

She hadn't expected Xing Dairong to help her in this life.

If not for Xing Dairong's actions, she wouldn't have known how to reveal Luo Heng's true nature to Lady Jiang and prevent Wang Qiluo from marrying him.

Now, Xing Dairong and Luo Heng were together.

Regardless of whether Xing Dairong had any real skills or if Luo Heng truly intended to marry her, things would soon come to a head.

Two people with hidden agendas together—only time would tell who would outsmart whom!

Returning to the marquisate, she sent a message to Zhiran, asking her to continue watching Luo Heng's residence.

By evening, she received news.

In the afternoon, indeed, Luo Heng's mother, Lady Yang, led a group of servants to surround his residence.

Luo Heng wasn't there, but Xing Dairong and those serving her were all dragged out.

Upon seeing Xing Dairong and learning her identity, Lady Yang slapped her repeatedly without asking any questions, immediately swelling her face.

Xing Dairong jumped and cursed, but before she could utter a full string of profanity, several maids and servants stuffed a cloth into her mouth and shoved her into a carriage.

According to the spies, the carriage initially headed towards Ningyang Marquisate but was intercepted halfway by Luo Heng on horseback. After a brief exchange, Lady Yang turned the carriage around and returned to the Luo residence.

"Young Lady, Sister Zhiran said that the person she sent followed Luo Heng's servant to a place outside the city. There, they smelled gunpowder and heard mentions of explosives. However, when they tried to gather more information, they were almost caught."

Hearing Shuang Hong's report, Lu Lingyun's eyes lit up.

Zhiran's spy was quite clever.

To think they could gather such information.

But... gunpowder?

What did Xing Dairong have to do with gunpowder?

Could she actually make it?

It was important to note that while gunpowder existed in their era, like fireworks and firecrackers used during festivals, its power was limited.

It's just for the sound, for the excitement.

The imperial court does have a department that researches firearms, but what they come up with is merely rudimentary gunpowder of average potency.

It's not as widely spread as fireworks and firecrackers among the common folk.

Lu Lingyun didn't immediately see the connection between Xing Dairong and gunpowder, but she made a mental note of it.

Once Cheng Yunshuo recovers, she'll give him a heads-up and have him look into it.

The next day, Lu Lingyun continued to manage the affairs of the manor as usual when someone from Lady Jiang came to deliver a message.

She expressed her gratitude for the reminder about Luo Heng. She also knew that Lady Yang had brought him back to the Luo residence yesterday, but what surprised her was that Lady Yang did not punish Xing Dairong; instead, she kept her there.

With the gates closed, all information about Xing Dairong was sealed off.

This action made Lady Jiang see the true colors of the Luo family.

There must be something wrong with them. Their son keeps a mistress outside without any explanation, and when he left, he promised to invite her to dinner to apologize, yet there's been no word since.

This means they intend to accept that woman into their household!

How outrageous!

Regardless of what happens next, Lady Jiang will not associate with them anymore, let alone consider an engagement!

Hearing all this, Lu Lingyun became even more certain that Xing Dairong must have some leverage to make the Luo family accept her.

Those people are like addicted gamblers, hooked on it.

With this in mind, Lu Lingyun grew even more curious about what Xing Dairong was up to.

"Madam, Sister Zhiran sent me a message today saying that everything is set with the charcoal fire. Would you like to go take a look?"

Lu Lingyun stretched lazily, "Sure."

Chapter 42: Dong Sheng and Xia Mei

West Street, West City.

Xi Ke Lai Grocery Store.

The Imperial City was bustling, with the east side home to the nobility, the north side housing the Imperial City, and the south and west sides where ordinary people lived.

Xi Ke Lai Grocery Store was located on the main street in the west of the city, bustling with customers every day, making it a very successful business.

"Miss!"

Lu Lingyun's carriage entered the back courtyard of Xi Ke Lai Grocery Store discreetly. As soon as she stepped out, a girl dressed in an apron and sleeves, looking neat and capable, rushed over excitedly.

It was Zhiran, Lu Lingyun's trusted maid.

"How are you adapting to life outside?" Lu Lingyun looked at Zhiran, feeling genuinely pleased.

"Everything is fine except I miss seeing you, Miss." Zhiran said, her voice filled with excitement.

Seeing her rosy complexion and vibrant spirit, Lu Lingyun was delighted. Zhiran's demeanor had changed significantly since leaving the mansion; she was more capable, energetic, and composed.

This was the capable manager she had been grooming.

In this lifetime, she did not need to pave the way for Li Wenxun as she had done in her previous life, sacrificing herself to nurture his growth. This time, she married into the Marquisate, entering a vast and prosperous new world.

In such a place, she no longer needed to sacrifice herself to climb up; she could simply stretch out and absorb ample sunlight to grow stronger.

Internally, she would firmly establish her roots in the Marquisate, controlling it completely. Externally, she could leverage all available resources to expand her own enterprises.

Everything that could be hers would be hers.

Currently, Lu Lingyun owned three shops: a restaurant, a silk and cloth store, and Xi Ke Lai Grocery Store. Each shop generated a monthly revenue of over three hundred taels, totaling nearly one thousand taels per month.

Additionally, she had five estates with over twenty tenant farmers, yielding an annual income of around three thousand taels.

These were all private earnings, separate from the Marquisate's finances.

"Miss, we used all our available funds to purchase charcoal. We bought ten thousand carts of charcoal for a total of nine thousand one hundred and seventy taels, filling four warehouses here."

Zhiran reported excitedly to Lu Lingyun. It was now almost November, and the price of charcoal was rising rapidly. Fortunately, they had purchased early, at less than one tael per cart, which had now risen to one and a half taels.

"Very good."

Lu Lingyun inspected the four warehouses.

In the cold winter months, the price of charcoal could rise to two taels per cart, and this year, it might even reach five taels per cart, with a shortage. Her stockpile of ten thousand carts would ensure a significant profit.

After reviewing the accounts and verifying the numbers, she instructed Zhiran about the necessary measures for preventing dampness and fire in the warehouses.

To her surprise, Zhiran had already taken care of everything. The charcoal was neatly stacked, and all precautions against dampness and fire were in place.

"You've really improved a lot, little one." Lu Lingyun pinched Zhiran's face affectionately.

Blushing with pride, Zhiran said, "Of course, I can't let you down, Miss."

"I'll have to give you a good reward during the New Year."

Zhiran was thrilled. Being praised by Lu Lingyun and making her proud was enough to satisfy her. She then thought of something and said, "By the way, Miss, there's someone I want to introduce to you."

"Who?"

"Dong Sheng! Xia Mei! Come here!" Zhiran called out to the front yard.

Soon, a thirteen-year-old lean boy led an eight-year-old girl out.

Both were young and thin but looked spirited, wearing rough clothes with bright eyes.

"Do you recognize them, Miss?" Zhiran asked mysteriously.

"Now that you mention it, they do look familiar." Lu Lingyun observed them, and they looked at her with gratitude in their eyes.

"Where have I seen them before?"

"It was the day you returned from your visit to the in-laws. You saw them selling themselves to bury their mother!" Zhiran explained.

Lu Lingyun immediately remembered. On that day, she had given them some money when returning with Cheng Yunshuo.

"Ah, it's you."

"Thank you, kind Miss."

"Thank you, kind Miss."

The two children knelt down before Lu Lingyun.

"Miss, it was quite a coincidence. When I went to buy charcoal for you, I met them again. Dong Sheng helped me negotiate the price. Normally, one cart of charcoal costs one tael, but he got it down to almost one tael less. They're both very capable."

Lu Lingyun smiled gently. "Stand up, both of you."

Dong Sheng helped Xia Mei stand up, and Zhiran continued, "Also, Miss, the surveillance on the Luo family was done by Dong Sheng. He followed the Luo family servant to the location outside the city."

"So it was you!" Lu Lingyun exclaimed, surprised and impressed by the thirteen-year-old Dong Sheng. "You did an excellent job."

"Thank you for your praise, it's nothing much." Dong Sheng spoke calmly, showing no particular excitement. For someone so young, he was remarkably composed and reserved.

Lu Lingyun was even more pleased with him.

Her gaze fell on the little girl beside Dong Sheng. "Do you go by Xia Mei?"

"Yes, Miss."

"How old are you this year?"

"Eight." Xia Mei was still quite young, and her voice carried a hint of shyness, but her eyes were clear and she did not flinch when looking at Lu Lingyun.

Lu Lingyun reached out to touch her head. "I want to take you with me. Would you be willing to come back to the marquisate with me and serve by my side?"

Upon hearing this, both Zhiran and Dong Sheng next to her were pleasantly surprised.

Especially Zhiran—returning to serve by the mistress's side was an incredible opportunity.

Xia Mei looked at her brother, who nodded earnestly at her.

Lu Lingyun was the consort of the marquisate's heir. Her sister was just an orphan; their parents were gone, and it wasn't easy for him to take care of her. If Xia Mei could follow Lu Lingyun, it would be a great fortune for her.

In the future, at the very least, she would become a senior maid in the marquisate. Whether she continued serving there or if Lu Lingyun arranged a good marriage for her, these were opportunities they could never have dreamed of.

Under her brother's encouraging gaze, Xia Mei hesitated for a moment before saying, "I am willing."

"Very good." Lu Lingyun smiled warmly, deciding to keep Xia Mei by her side.

She then gave Dong Sheng some additional rewards and asked him to continue monitoring the Luo family's activities. Dong Sheng readily agreed.

This time, it was different from before. He would work even harder for Lu Lingyun because his sister was now by her side, making them truly part of Lu Lingyun's household.

Lu Lingyun then walked around the grocery shop a bit more, gave some other instructions, and left with her entourage.

Chapter 43: Liu Shuhui

Lu Lingyun brought Xia Mei back to the mansion.

Upon returning, she first handed her over to Shuang Hong to bathe, change clothes, and be assigned a room.

Lu Lingyun asked Shuang Hong to take care of her for now.

There were three senior maids in her courtyard, each pair sharing a room. Shuang Hong previously shared with Zhiran. Now that Zhiran was away, Xia Mei would stay with Shuang Hong.

Xia Mei was young, so Lu Lingyun instructed her to stay close by and handle lighter tasks.

After settling Xia Mei, Lu Lingyun had some free time.

Under Lady Qin's management, apart from the servants occasionally skimming off the accounts, everything else was handled diligently.

Now that Lu Lingyun took over, her stern handling of the wall repair incident served as a warning. Since then, the accounts submitted had been much more honest.

In the marquisate, Nurse An had secured a position as a senior housekeeper, and Cui Da's purchasing duties were taken over by Little Wei. On the surface, she had gained considerable influence within the marquisate.

Of course, Lu Lingyun knew that compared to the entire marquisate, the power she currently held was less than one-tenth.

She needed to cultivate more trusted confidants in key positions.

Lying idly on a soft chair, a housekeeper came in to report.

"Madam, there is a lawsuit seeking our help."

"A lawsuit?"

Lu Lingyun perked up.

Noble families wielded great power and influence, often resolving matters with a single word. Thus, smaller households often sought their assistance when faced with injustices.

For example, peasants in rural areas would seek justice from local gentry, while in larger cities, they would turn to prominent families.

Although Ningyang Marquisate wasn't among the top powers in Imperial City, its strength was enough to attract many seeking aid.

Lu Lingyun had dealt with such lawsuits before in Jiangnan.

"It's also an elderly person from our household's nephew," the housekeeper explained. "Their family runs an inn in the western part of the city. With the imperial examinations approaching next year, many scholars have arrived, making their business thrive. However, a fatal incident occurred at their inn, and the manager was arrested. They've come to us, hoping Madam can help release him."

Lu Lingyun frowned, "What kind of fatal incident?"

"Apparently, a few scholars got into an argument, which escalated into a physical altercation. The railing on the second floor was old and rotten, leading to the unfortunate death. The manager was arrested."

Lu Lingyun listened and said, "From what I hear, he's not unlucky. As the manager, failing to maintain the premises properly leading to a fatality warrants imprisonment."

The housekeeper continued, "True, but it wasn't intentional. Madam, the manager's name is Zhao, and his uncle was the late old master's chief steward. He once took a blow for the old master, losing his ability to have children. He has only one nephew to support him in his old age. Now, at his advanced age, he's come to us, willing to pay any amount to secure his nephew's release!"

Lu Lingyun straightened up, "Is the old steward still outside?"

"Yes, kneeling."

"Tell him to go home; I'll visit tomorrow."

"Alright!" The housekeeper left excitedly.

Lu Lingyun noted this matter and called Xia Mei over, "Xia Mei, you used to live in the western part of the city?"

"Yes, Madam."

After entering the mansion, the perceptive Xia Mei quickly adjusted her address.

"The accident at the western inn, have you heard about it?"

Xia Mei nodded vigorously, "Three days ago, there was a fatal incident at an inn. Several people argued, and one fell from the second floor!"

Lu Lingyun confirmed the details, ensuring the old steward and the housekeeper hadn't misled her.

"Go out later and ask your brother to find out the detailed circumstances and how many people were involved."

"Yes, Madam!"

Lu Lingyun decided to help, but first, she needed clarity.

The next day.

Lu Lingyun went to Yaoguang Pavilion to check on Cheng Yunshuo as usual.

Cheng Yunshuo was recovering well, both physically and mentally. It seemed he would fully recover in a couple of days.

Leaving Yaoguang Pavilion, she headed straight to Zhaoji Inn in the western part of the city.

With a fatality at the inn, the front entrance was sealed, and many guests had moved elsewhere, leaving only a few who entered and exited through the back door.

"Miss!"

As soon as she arrived, Dong Sheng emerged from the crowd.

"I'll lead you inside the inn."

"Alright." Lu Lingyun wore a hat and followed Dong Sheng through the back door into the inn.

Inside, things were scattered haphazardly.

Pots, pans, laundry, preserved meats, dried fish, and vegetables, along with unpleasant odors.

"Miss, the inn is now unattended. The manager has been arrested, and the workers have all gone home. Everyone here has to take care of their own food and lodging. This place is indeed filthy."

"No matter."

Lu Lingyun found a spot amidst the clutter and followed Dong Sheng into the inn.

The inside of the inn was even messier. On the first floor, there was a large dried bloodstain, and several tables had leftover dishes that hadn't been cleared. Fortunately, the weather had turned colder, so there weren't as many flies, but it was still quite dirty.

Lu Lingyun carefully examined the area around the bloodstain. "Was there something here before?"

"Yes, there used to be a flower pot here. That unlucky fellow was killed instantly when he hit the pot," Dong Sheng said.

As soon as he finished speaking, they heard a righteous and indignant voice, "Who are you calling unlucky?!"

Lu Lingyun looked up and saw a young man in coarse clothing with patches on his shoulders and sleeves standing on the stairs, glaring at them angrily.

"May I ask who you are?" Dong Sheng asked.

The man descended from the second floor and declared with righteousness, "I am Liu Shuhui!"

Liu Shuhui?

At the sound of this name, Lu Lingyun was momentarily stunned.

The Liu Shuhui from the previous life, the third-place winner in the imperial exams?!

Hearing this name, Dong Sheng, beside her, groaned and said to Lu Lingyun, "Miss, it's him. He's the one whose fellow villager died. He refuses to accept any compensation and insists on having the manager pay with his life. He claims that under the emperor's rule, justice must prevail, and if the Supreme Court doesn't execute the murderer for his fellow villager, he will appeal directly to the emperor!"

Lu Lingyun: "..."

Indeed, it was that stubborn Liu Shuhui.

She had far too vivid a memory of him.

This was the same Liu Shuhui who spent his entire life opposing Li Wenxun in the previous life, never backing down, and eventually became the governor overseeing the Jiangnan canal system.

He was stubborn to the core, always fighting against injustice. Such a person wasn't suited for the political arena, but his exceptional talent could not be overlooked. The current emperor, a wise ruler skilled at utilizing people's strengths, placed him in the position of canal governor, where he held his ground against all opposition.

One could say that Li Wenxun's high-ranking position was paved by Lu Lingyun, while Liu Shuhui's role as the canal governor was entirely earned through his own tenacity.

He was a top-tier talent and a top-tier stubborn individual.

Chapter 44 Negotiating with Liu Shuhui

"Who are you?" Liu Shuhui sized up Lu Lingyun, noticing her attire and the presence of a servant, immediately deducing she wasn't from the shop. His face was filled with suspicion.

Lu Lingyun didn't hide it anymore and spoke directly, "I am the owner of this shop."

"So you're the owner here. I thought you looked suspicious and were here to destroy evidence to get your people out! Come with me to see the magistrate!"

Liu Shuhui moved forward to grab Lu Lingyun and take her to the magistrate.

Before he could touch her, Dong Sheng stepped in front of Lu Lingyun, "You reckless fool, who do you think you're dragging off to see the magistrate? Do you know who our young miss is? Touch her, and you'll regret it for life!"

"Hmph! I, Liu, am not afraid of you! Under the heavens and within the imperial capital, there must be justice!"

Lu Lingyun: "..."

A born stubborn mule, indeed.

She waved Dong Sheng away and spoke calmly, "Young Master Liu, I'm not here to destroy evidence; I want to investigate this matter thoroughly."

"The authorities have already investigated everything clearly. I was present when the incident happened and saw my fellow townsman fall from the second floor. The rotten staircase is clear evidence. What else is there to investigate?"

"Since it happened in my establishment, I naturally need to understand it myself, don't I?"

Lu Lingyun's reasonable argument made Liu Shuhui's aggressive demeanor soften slightly.

He wasn't unreasonable, but he never believed that someone like Lu Lingyun would come to reason with him.

Lu Lingyun, a noble lady from the Imperial City, seemed to him like someone who wouldn't engage in rational discourse with an impoverished scholar like himself, who had come to the capital alone for the exams.

People like her could suppress others simply by wielding their power.

Liu Shuhui had seen too many such people, so he harbored intense hostility towards Lu Lingyun from the start. If she acted forcefully, he would respond even more forcefully.

His family was a minor aristocratic clan from Jiangnan. His father, a former county magistrate, died of illness when Liu Shuhui was young, leaving his mother to support the family. She was a gentle soul, often bullied by the clan elders, nearly driving them to ruin.

As the eldest son, Liu Shuhui knew that being weak and yielding was useless. Only by being as sharp and fierce as a blade could one carve out a path in such a harsh environment.

Even if the other party wielded immense power, as long as one held the truth and had a strong will, they could stand firm.

Of course, Liu Shuhui wasn't unreasonable. His firmness was based on facts.

He valued the truth more than anyone else.

After hearing Lu Lingyun's explanation, he stepped back, "Miss, please go upstairs and take a look."

"Alright." Lu Lingyun nodded at him and walked upstairs.

The second floor was even dirtier and messier than the first.

Perhaps due to the shop being closed for several days without cleaning, the hallway was cluttered with various items, and chamber pots were openly placed outside some rooms.

The smell was truly unbearable.

Lu Lingyun merely frowned but didn't comment on these unrelated matters. She navigated through the clutter and stopped at the broken railing.

Liu Shuhui watched her reaction closely. Although Lu Lingyun wore a hat obscuring her expression, her willingness to walk through such a place impressed him.

Seeing her carefully examining the broken railing, he was genuinely surprised.

This woman was surprisingly meticulous and thorough.

It seemed she was genuinely interested in finding the truth.

"Well, is it naturally rotted?"

Lu Lingyun stood up, dusted off her hands, and nodded, "Yes."

The staircase railing was indeed damaged, not tampered with.

In her previous life, she had worked alongside Li Wenxun as a local official in Jiangnan for over a decade, gaining considerable experience and investigative skills.

"So what do you have to say now?" Liu Shuhui scoffed, as if proving his point.

At this moment, Lu Lingyun spoke calmly, "The railing being naturally rotted is fine, but whether the fall was accidental is another question."

"I saw it happen! My fellow townsman touched the railing and fell! What else could it be?"

"I heard he was arguing with someone at the time."

"That's right, it was a normal debate."

Debates among scholars were common.

"Perhaps someone noticed the rotten staircase beforehand and deliberately lured him there. Then, while he was agitated, he touched the railing and fell. Or perhaps he knew about it all along, got into an argument, became enraged, and under the pressure of the exams, broke the railing and jumped to his death."

Lu Lingyun presented each possibility.

She wasn't intentionally covering for her own people. After years of experience, she understood that one should always assume the worst of human behavior, as the truth behind events can be unimaginably evil.

Anything is possible.

But to Liu Shuhui, her words infuriated him, "You're talking nonsense!"

"Do you have evidence to prove that my assumptions are wrong?"

"What evidence do you have to prove your claims!"

"That's right." Lu Lingyun looked at him calmly from under her straw hat. "Young Master Liu, I am also saddened by the news of your friend's passing. However, the truth of this matter is elusive, and none of us can prove exactly what happened. Why don't we settle this privately? I am willing to offer the utmost compensation in good faith."

"Hmph! You're here just to protect yourself! Let me tell you, it's out of the question. What you say cannot be proven, but the negligence of your people is undeniable. He should be held responsible!"

"You are right, but in this world, any action should only bear corresponding responsibility. A thief should be punished for theft, not executed. If you break a box containing valuable pearls, you cannot be asked to compensate for the entire value of the pearls. Everything has its limits."

Lingyun spoke calmly and steadily. "My manager was indeed negligent for not repairing the stairs promptly and ensuring safety, but he did not intentionally kill anyone. Therefore, he should only bear the responsibility that corresponds to his actions, not give up his life. We are willing to compensate for his negligence."

Hearing Lu Lingyun's words, Liu Shuhui felt frustrated, yet he could not deny the logic. After a moment of stubborn contemplation, he insisted, "I don't want money; he's dead! No amount of compensation can bring him back. When someone dies, someone else must pay with their life!"

Upon hearing this, Lu Lingyun's tone turned firm. "As you said, you have no evidence to disprove my conjectures. If you insist on taking a life as compensation, please provide evidence to refute all my assumptions before you condemn my manager. Otherwise, even if you take this to the court, I will not accept it."

With that, Lu Lingyun walked away, leading Dong Sheng.

Leaving Liu Shuhui alone in the spot.

Chapter 45 Resolution of the Lawsuit

Lu Lingyun walked away decisively, not giving Liu Shuhui any chance to argue back.

She had already explained the reasoning and shown sincerity. If Liu Shuhui still insisted on his own way, then she would let him debate it in court.

She had seen the situation.

Zhao Da was at fault, but he certainly did not deserve death.

An accident should be treated as an accident, and intentional acts should be punished accordingly.

"Dong Sheng, come here again tomorrow and tell him that we are willing to send his fellow villager's remains back to Jiangnan and provide them with five hundred taels in compensation. Additionally, if his wife and children cannot live in Jiangnan, we are willing to bring them to the Imperial City, arrange housing and employment for them, and help their children with education. Lastly..."

Lu Lingyun thought for a moment, "We are also willing to provide Liu Shuhui with a good room and free meals until the imperial examinations are over."

Lu Lingyun listed her compensation conditions and asked Dong Sheng to convey them to Liu Shuhui.

If they could resolve the matter through negotiation, it would be best. But if Liu Shuhui refused to accept, she would take it all the way to the Golden Hall.

She was not afraid of him.

He had his reasons, and Lu Lingyun had hers.

"Yes, Miss."

Dong Sheng nodded and agreed smartly.

The next day, Liu Shuhui, who had been depressed all night, heard a knock on his door from Dong Sheng.

Dong Sheng relayed Lu Lingyun's proposal to him.

After hearing Dong Sheng's words, Liu Shuhui became furious, cursing Lu Lingyun for being heartless and demanding to see her in person to discuss the matter.

Dong Sheng ignored him, dismissed him with a few words, and told him to consider it himself.

On the third day, Liu Shuhui withdrew his lawsuit, agreeing to the terms.

However, he did not accept the final compensation offered by Lu Lingyun, nor did he want the room or meals she provided. He only asked Dong Sheng to transport his friend's remains back to Jiangnan quickly and ensure that the promised silver was not reduced.

If Lu Lingyun played tricks, he would fight her to the end.

Upon hearing this response, Lu Lingyun gave a faint smile.

Although Liu Shuhui was stubborn, he was also a man of principle. Despite his harsh words, he ultimately acknowledged her reasoning.

Zhao Da did not deserve death.

With Lu Lingyun's sincerity, the compensation she offered was enough to justify it.

Liu Shuhui withdrew his lawsuit while still ranting about wanting to see Lu Lingyun again. Dong Sheng did not give him the chance and left after concluding the matter.

That same day, the authorities released Zhao Da.

In the afternoon, Zhao Da, his uncle, and his entire family came to the marquis's residence to kneel and express their gratitude.

"Thank you, Young Lady!"

"Young Lady, you are our family's savior!"

Lu Lingyun looked at the scattered group kneeling on the ground. "Get up, what does this look like?"

She then instructed Shuang Hong to get a chair for the old steward who used to serve the late grandfather, so he could sit down.

Zhao Da's family was deeply grateful.

"Young Lady, we have decided," Zhao Da said slowly, looking at his elderly uncle. "We will entrust the inn to the marquis's residence and work for the marquis's residence from now on."

Lu Lingyun had helped them so much; they were determined to repay her.

Moreover, after this incident, they realized how difficult it was for ordinary people to survive without the support of power.

When Zhao Da's uncle worked as a steward in the marquis's residence, no one dared to provoke them. But once they left the marquis's residence, they faced countless hardships.

They had to endure the bullying of local ruffians at their inn. When a major incident occurred, like this one, they risked losing everything.

In this era, it was better to join forces and follow powerful figures for survival.

Zhao Da's family decided to entrust the inn to Lu Lingyun and receive the protection of the marquis's residence.

"Are you sure?" Lu Lingyun asked, not surprised by their decision.

"Yes!" Zhao Da's family nodded together, and the old Zhao was about to kneel again.

"Young Lady, I can still serve you for a few more years."

"Old Steward, please get up." Lu Lingyun gave a signal to a servant, who immediately helped him up.

Looking at the family before her, she said, "Since you all feel this way, then it shall be so. However, you do not need to sell yourselves to the marquis's residence. You will remain free individuals. Consider it as me hiring you to manage the inn. In addition to your monthly wages, you will receive a thirty percent share."

Hearing this, Zhao Da's family was once again deeply moved.

They had come prepared to offer themselves anew, but Lu Lingyun's generosity in employing them while preserving their freedom was truly remarkable.

The difference between being a free individual and a slave was immense. Even though slaves generally lived better than commoners, they were still slaves.

Lu Lingyun's arrangement, providing both protection and freedom, was truly like a bodhisattva!

Everyone presented Lu Lingyun with the property deeds and left the marquisate with endless gratitude.

Lingyun looked at the deeds and instructed Shuang Hong to put them in her dowry chest.

This was her private property, not an asset of the marquisate.

After this, Lu Lingyun now owned four shops.

The inn would still be managed by Zhao Da's family. She just needed to inform Zhiran and collect the account books.

After catching her breath, Xia Mei brought another piece of news from her brother.

"Madam, my brother said he heard explosions coming from the Luo family's land outside the city these past few days."

She almost forgot.

There was also the matter with Xing Dairong.

"How big were the explosions?"

"It sounded like fireworks going off every day," Xia Mei described vividly.

"I see."

What exactly is Xing Dairong up to?

The next morning.

Lu Lingyun met Cheng Yunshuo, who had changed into his Imperial Guard uniform.

He had been ill for some time, but now he was fully recovered.

Not only was he better, but he also seemed different from before.

Previously full of youthful vigor, after this incident, he had become much more composed, even carrying a hint of maturity in his eyes.

"Prince."

"Xiao Jun, you came."

Cheng Yunshuo had become more familiar with Lu Lingyun, though unlike with Aunt Qiu, he remained courteous with her.

Even when alone together, they didn't act like a married couple but rather like old friends.

"Prince, it's good that you're well." Lu Lingyun gave him a faint smile.

"It's getting cold; remember to add more clothes." Cheng Yunshuo smiled back at her.

Lu Lingyun accompanied Cheng Yunshuo out, chatting casually along the way. He enjoyed being with her because it never felt tiring, and they could talk about anything.

After sending Cheng Yunshuo off, Lu Lingyun turned back to the manor. "Xia Mei, has your brother set out?"

"He has, already gone to report to the Prefectural Commandant Manor."

Lu Lingyun smiled calmly upon hearing this.

She had asked Dong Sheng to report Luo Heng's daily fireworks to the Prefectural Commandant Manor.

As an Imperial Guard, Cheng Yunshuo would have to handle this.

Chapter 46: Reencounter with Xing Dairong

Lu Lingyun, enjoying her leisure time, was walking back when she encountered Qiu Ling coming out.

"Madam," Qiu Ling greeted her with a beaming smile, approaching eagerly.

"Where are you headed?" Lu Lingyun asked.

"Out for a stroll," Qiu Ling said, looking pleadingly. "Madam, I heard there's a new thing on the street called soap. It's much better than our household's soap nuts and leaves clothes fragrant. Shall we go see it together?"

"Sure."

Lu Lingyun had nothing else to do, so checking out the new item sounded good.

She instructed the Ningyang Marquis's residence to prepare a carriage and went out with Qiu Ling.

Soon, the carriage arrived at Dong Street.

Dong Street was known for having the most expensive and best goods in the entire Imperial City.

The usual visitors here were the noble ladies of the capital.

Lu Lingyun and Qiu Ling got off the carriage, and a newly opened, crowded general store caught her attention.

"Yes, that's the place!" Qiu Ling pointed excitedly.

"New Continent Department Store?"

Lu Lingyun read the sign aloud.

This name was refreshingly unique. Most shops in this era were named after their proprietors or locations, like Zhaoji Inn or Liuji Cloth Shop, or after places, such as Lake Zhou Dumplings or Liuzhou Vermicelli.

More refined shops might use names like Zhai, Ge, Lou, or Tang, followed by what they sold, like Baozhi Tang or Yashu Zhai.

Others commonly used auspicious terms like Jufu, Jubin, or Xike paired with their restaurants or inns.

But the New Continent Department Store stood out to Lu Lingyun.

It was a name she had never seen before.

And the combination of words reminded her somewhat of the self-service restaurant Xing Dairong had set up previously.

"Intriguing." She smiled, leading Qiu Ling and two maids into the store.

Upon entering, they were greeted by a faint floral fragrance.

The sales attendant was enthusiastically discussing something with several brightly dressed women. "This is the soap everyone's talking about. All the noble ladies in the city are using it now."

"A light rub and the stains come right off. Unlike those old soap powders that take multiple washes, this is perfect for our expensive silk brocades."

"Is it really that good?" Qiu Ling asked, stepping closer.

The attendant glanced at Qiu Ling, noticing her embroidered satin coat, gold hairpin, and gold bracelet. This attire indicated she was from a wealthy family; even moderately well-off households couldn't afford such clothing.

Wearing gold and silver was not just a phrase but a sign of significant wealth.

Some families of lesser means, or even the wives of officials from the literati, might not have such elaborate accessories and clothing.

Qiu Ling clearly came from a wealthy household.

Immediately, he turned his attention to her, grinning. "Yes, sister. Your satin coat needs gentle handling. With this soap, one rinse and a light rub will do the trick."

"You should get the scented one. It leaves a lingering fragrance! One tael per piece."

Qiu Ling turned to Lu Lingyun, delighted. "Madam, this is it!"

Lu Lingyun smiled gently. "Let's buy it."

It was a bit pricey, but Lu Lingyun was willing to try new things.

With her approval, Qiu Ling exclaimed loudly, "Attendant! Wrap ten pieces of this soap for us."

"Right away—"

Before he could finish, a sharp, mocking voice interrupted from behind the counter.

"We don't sell to you!"

As the voice faded, a young woman in a pale pink dress and a peach-colored vest emerged from the inner room.

Her hair was styled in an unmarried girl's bun, adorned with a single pearl silver hairpin, and she wore a jade bracelet. However, the quality was mediocre, making it appear cheap.

Not particularly expensive.

Yet, she seemed to hold a high position in the store. The attendant, who was about to lose a big sale, immediately fell silent.

He couldn't afford to offend her.

Under everyone's gaze, the young woman stopped in front of Qiu Ling and Lu Lingyun, smiling mockingly. "Well, if it isn't the Madam and Aunt Qiu from the Ningyang Marquis's residence."

Saying this was Xing Dairong.

Xing Dairong's tone was unfriendly, and Qiu Ling retorted without hesitation. "Well, if it isn't the former Miss Xing from the Floating Fragrance Pavilion?"

Hearing the words "Floating Fragrance Pavilion," Xing Dairong's anger flared again. She gritted her teeth, glaring fiercely. "Aunt Qiu, it's been a while, but you're still acting like a servant."

"Likewise, you shameless runaway courtesan, you haven't improved much either."

Xing Dairong was livid. "Ha! That foul mouth of yours deserves a good beating, Lu Lingyun. You'd better control your dog, or I'll beat it without regard for its master!"

"Ah! You're the one who..." Qiu Ling raised her hand in anger.

At this moment, Lu Lingyun called out, "Enough, Aunt Qiu."

As soon as she spoke, Qiu Ling reluctantly lowered her hand.

Seeing her humiliated, Xing Dairong was delighted. "Hmph, a dog is still a dog, claiming not to be a servant."

Seeing Qiu Ling about to flare up again, Lu Lingyun grew slightly impatient. "Miss Xing, what do you want?"

"I don't want anything. This is my shop, and I can sell it to whoever I want."

"This is your shop?"

"Of course, this shop is mine. My business is thriving; the soap I developed is selling like hotcakes all over the Imperial City." Xing Dairong looked smug, clearly showing off that she could live well without them.

She also hoped to see shock and regret in their eyes.

Unfortunately, Lu Lingyun remained with a faint smile. "Then congratulations to you."

With no reaction from her, Xing Dairong glared at her with envy. "I'm nothing like some people, who are just parasites, lacking any talent!"

At this moment, Qiu Ling's voice came, "I know, some people rely on their talents in bed, moving from one man to another."

"You're asking for it!" Xing Dairong couldn't hold back anymore and raised her hand to strike Qiu Ling.

Just then, a hand firmly grabbed her wrist. Lu Lingyun held her tightly and looked at her coldly. "What are you doing!"

"Did you hear what she said? She insulted me!"

"It's not your place to discipline her!" Lu Lingyun coldly threw her hand away.

Xing Dairong, enraged, glared at Lu Lingyun. "Do you know who I am now?"

"Who?" Lu Lingyun looked at her calmly. "A young lady or a madam of which household? Or perhaps a concubine?"

"Luo Heng promised to marry me as his main wife! With an eight-person sedan chair and proper marriage arrangements!" Xing Dairong became more excited and proud as she spoke. "When that happens, my status will be the same as yours! We'll both be the mistresses of our households! Lu Lingyun, you can keep that scoundrel Cheng Yunshuo!"

Lu Lingyun looked at her and smiled faintly, waving to her servants. "Let's go!"

Chapter 47: This Is Clearly a Heap of Firecrackers

Lu Lingyun left, and after getting into the carriage, Qiu Ling's eyes were still red with grievance.

Lu Lingyun couldn't help but comfort her, "Alright, don't be upset anymore. I'll find you some soap tomorrow."

"I don't want anything from that woman!" Qiu Ling snorted coldly. "I just can't stand her. She's a courtesan from a brothel, yet both His Highness and you treat her so well, and she still acts so arrogantly! She really deserves a beating!"

"Alright, life is long; we'll see how things unfold." Lu Lingyun pinched her face. "Shall I take you to buy some cosmetics to cheer you up?"

Hearing this, Qiu Ling's grievances vanished instantly. "Then Young Lady must buy me more."

"Sure, whatever you want," Lu Lingyun said with patience.

She took Qiu Ling to visit a cosmetics shop and bought her quite a few new products, adding a few boxes for herself as well. After they both had a good time shopping, they returned to the mansion.

Upon returning, she proactively told Cheng Yunshuo about encountering Xing Dairong today.

Cheng Yunshuo remained expressionless upon hearing that Xing Dairong had reopened her shop.

She didn't mention their argument about becoming Luo Heng's main wife, as she was sure he had already heard about it.

Cheng Yunshuo only told her not to tell him such things in the future before returning to his own courtyard.

Seeing this, Lu Lingyun felt that Cheng Yunshuo seemed to be starting to let go of Xing Dairong.

She didn't ask him about the investigation today. The next day, however, Dong Sheng brought news from the Luo family.

Xing Dairong had been sent back to the same side residence where Luo Heng used to live.

Lu Lingyun heard this and gave a light sneer.

Some people really don't know how to use their eyes properly, being so high and mighty.

She openly challenged her at the department store yesterday, declaring she would become Luo Heng's main wife. How could the Luo family view her now?

Not to mention her low status and her not being a virtuous woman, even if she hadn't been with Cheng Yunshuo and wasn't from a brothel, the Luo family's door isn't that easy to enter.

By publicly proclaiming this, she was simply inviting ridicule for the Luo family.

The Yang family wouldn't indulge her; sending her to the side residence was already lenient.

"Tell your brother to keep a close watch on the Luo family's side residence and the outskirts over the next few days."

"Yes."

Two more days passed.

Cheng Yunshuo had been increasingly busy recently.

Dong Sheng also brought her a significant piece of news.

"Young Lady, my brother said that His Highness led people to seal off the area outside the city today."

"Oh?"

Hearing this, Lu Lingyun knew something major must have happened.

At this moment, outside the Luo family's property.

Cheng Yunshuo led a large group of Imperial Guards, surrounding the place.

The steward came out trembling, "Sir, what's going on?"

"There's been a report that dangerous items are being manufactured here."

In this era, gunpowder exists. If used for firecrackers, it can be processed privately, but weapons made with gunpowder are strictly controlled by the government, and private manufacturing is punishable by death.

Cheng Yunshuo had investigated for several days and confirmed that this place was not making firecrackers.

They did not sell firecrackers or tell anyone what they were doing.

As Cheng Yunshuo delved deeper, he found it strange and applied for an inspection warrant to investigate and seal the place.

"We, we make firecrackers!" the steward stammered.

"Search!" Cheng Yunshuo waved his hand, and the Imperial Guards immediately broke through their gates and rushed into the courtyard.

Seeing this, the steward frowned tightly and quickly signaled to his subordinate, who whispered.

"The young master has been notified."

"Is the stuff hidden?"

"It's hidden."

Just as the servant finished speaking, a team of Imperial Guards ran out shouting, "We found the stuff!"

The servant was speechless.

The steward wanted to strangle him. "This is what you call hiding it!"

"How was I supposed to know they'd be so efficient..."

The steward was furious, glaring at him fiercely before running forward with a forced smile. "Sir, sir..."

"What is this?" Cheng Yunshuo frowned deeply, looking at fist-sized black lumps.

"These are our new firecrackers..."

"You call this a firecracker!" another Imperial Guard sneered at him.

"Sir, this really is a firecracker!"

Cheng Yunshuo carefully examined the object and tossed out a black lump. "If it's a firecracker, light it up for us to see!"

"This..."

"Hurry up!"

Cheng Yunshuo and his men were not easily fooled; all the Imperial Guards watched him with stern faces.

The steward, forced into a corner, could only grit his teeth. "Fine!"

Holding the gunpowder, the steward's heart raced with anxiety, panicking terribly.

Oh no, oh no, their secret gunpowder experiments were about to be discovered—what should they do!

Although he hadn't tested the actual power of this iron lump yet, the woman their master brought had confidently claimed that this was the strongest gunpowder ever made!

Once revealed, it would certainly bring Luo Heng fame across the land.

But if Luo Heng gained fame before the discovery, what would happen!

If they found out they were secretly researching gunpowder, they would surely be executed!

"Hurry up!"

Cheng Yunshuo led his men to spread out, urging harshly from the side.

"If you don't hurry, I'll have all of you thrown in jail!"

With a swift sound, a group of Imperial Guards drew their cold blades.

In the glint of the knives, the steward clenched his teeth. Whether he hesitated or not, the result would be the same. He lit the fire starter and ignited the gunpowder in front of everyone.

"Bang—"

An explosion rang out.

After a short while, all the Imperial Guards withdrew from the area.

Not long after they left, Luo Heng galloped over on horseback.

Upon arriving, he saw the almost unchanged gunpowder site and was slightly taken aback. Weren't the Imperial Guards supposed to have come?

"Where are they?"

The steward who had just ignited the gunpowder stepped forward. "They left."

"Hmm?" Luo Heng was puzzled. "Did they not discover my things?"

"They did."

"Then why did they leave?"

The steward looked up, equally shocked. "Because, Young Master, this... is clearly just a pile of firecrackers!"

Frustrated, the steward threw the object away.

Luo Heng: "?"

Another short while later, the steward, in front of Luo Heng, personally ignited the gunpowder made according to the formula taught by Xing Dairong. After the explosion, Luo Heng stared in shock at the smoke-filled sky, but there were barely any craters on the ground. The power was less than that of firecrackers, and many even failed to ignite...

This... this is the legendary powerful gunpowder that can easily destroy city walls?!

What is this!

It's not even good enough to be a firecracker!

Luo Heng spat angrily, "That bitch lied to me!"

He turned around, mounted his horse in fury, and set off to find Xing Dairong.

Chapter 48 Xing Dairong Gets Slapped

Lu Lingyun perked up immediately upon hearing from Dong Sheng that Cheng Yunshuo had cordoned off the outskirts.

"Did you find anything?"

"Nothing."

"Hmm?" Lu Lingyun was puzzled.

"Miss, my brother said that after His Highness and the others surrounded the area and searched it, they found a pile of black lumps. The steward said they were firecrackers, but His Highness didn't believe it and ordered them to light them. Guess what happened?"

"Stop teasing me, just tell me." Lu Lingyun poked Xia Mei's head.

Xia Mei giggled, "My brother said those black lumps popped and fizzled like weak firecrackers—just smoke, barely any sound!"

Lu Lingyun: "..."

"I don't know what those people are up to, always so mysterious, only to end up with something that isn't even proper firecrackers." Xia Mei laughed uncontrollably.

Lu Lingyun watched her laughing and couldn't help but chuckle too.

She had always been good at judging people, and the loud-mouthed Xing Dairong hadn't disappointed her.

When she called her shallow, it wasn't out of malice; the girl probably had some fresh ideas, but they were only skin-deep, never explored in depth.

"This is the divine weapon you gave me, which would bring me fame and glory!"

In the Luo family's private residence, a black lump was thrown in front of Xing Dairong.

Xing Dairong, who was having afternoon tea in the courtyard, was stunned for a moment before quickly realizing, "Did you make the explosives?"

"Hah! Explosives? Who do you think you can fool!" Luo Heng looked at Xing Dairong's clueless face, "I really must be crazy to believe a woman like you!"

"Impossible!" Xing Dairong stood up firmly, "Did you follow my recipe exactly?"

Luo Heng sneered, "One part sulfur, two parts nitrate, three parts charcoal, right?"

"That's right!"

Xing Dairong was utterly convinced. One part sulfur, two parts nitrate, three parts charcoal—she was certain she hadn't gotten it wrong.

This was the best formula for gunpowder! Anyone who studied chemistry in middle school knew this!

Seeing Xing Dairong still so confident, Luo Heng felt he was the fool, not her!

How could he have believed a woman like Xing Dairong, full of nonsense, just like that fool Cheng Yunshuo!

Because of one sentence from her, he had smuggled her out and been tricked into making these explosives, making himself look ridiculous!

Xing Dairong, seeing Luo Heng's agitated and betrayed expression, picked up the iron lump again and said seriously, "As long as we follow my ratio, there's no way it can go wrong!"

"Then try it yourself!" Luo Heng pulled out a flint and steel and handed it to her.

Xing Dairong, determined to prove herself, lit the fuse and tossed the iron lump away. "Quick, hide!"

"Hah! Hide?" Luo Heng grabbed Xing Dairong, preventing her from hiding inside the house.

"What are you doing? It's dangerous."

"Just a bit of smoke, no sound at all. Where are you going to hide?"

As Luo Heng spoke, the ignited iron lump sizzled and emitted thick smoke, but there was no explosion as Xing Dairong had expected.

Xing Dairong stared in disbelief at the smoking lump, which only produced small popping sounds like weak firecrackers before fizzling out.

"How could this happen?"

"Do you still have the nerve to ask how this could happen?" Luo Heng was furious, "We followed your recipe exactly, using the ratio of one part sulfur, two parts nitrate, three parts charcoal. To ensure accuracy, I had each component weighed dozens of times!"

Xing Dairong, hearing this, stared blankly at the burned-out gunpowder, confused. "It can't be. It can't be. The book clearly states this is the formula for gunpowder."

Xing Dairong indeed hadn't gotten it wrong.

But she had memorized the chemical formula!

One part sulfur, two parts nitrate, three parts charcoal is the molecular formula for gunpowder (S 2KNO3 3C = KS N 3CO). However, the actual formula requires recalculating based on the molecular weights, which means the true ratio is approximately 75% potassium nitrate, 10% sulfur, and 15% carbon.

Since the invention of gunpowder, its ratios have been refined countless times. By the Ming Dynasty, the closest approximation to the chemical formula had already been achieved. Even if Xing Dairong had memorized the black powder formula, it wouldn't be the optimal one. Europeans later discovered that nitrate was the primary explosive component and adjusted the ratio to 78% or higher, creating more powerful explosives.

Of course, Xing Dairong truly didn't know this.

She didn't realize she had memorized only the chemical formula and overlooked practical details, making it impossible to create gunpowder.

She had knowledge but only theoretical; in practice, it was far-fetched, much like her idea of making money through a buffet.

Shocked by the failure of her confidence-filled creation, she desperately sought reasons, "Was the nitrate not purified? Was there too much impurity in the sulfur? Did you use too little charcoal?"

"Smack!" A slap landed on Xing Dairong's face.

Xing Dairong, doubting everything, gradually returned to reality.

"You're still putting on an act!"

"Luo Heng!" Xing Dairong, not angry but more panicked, clutched Luo Heng, pleading, "Try again, please. I'm not lying to you! Please, try again!"

Humans are indeed strange creatures.

In front of Cheng Yunshuo, she would never act like this. Even when the buffet went bankrupt and she splashed water on him, she could still throw tantrums at Cheng Yunshuo as she pleased, taking it for granted that he should still try to placate her.

But now in front of Luo Heng, she had to be as humble as possible, fearing that he would no longer give her another chance.

"Do you think I'd believe you again?!" Luo Heng shoved Xing Dairong away.

Ever since bringing her back, he had faced one mishap after another: falling out with Cheng Yunshuo, damaging his carefully maintained social relationships, being scolded by his parents, and enduring countless sneers behind his back. He felt like a fool, deceived by Xing Dairong.

For her sake, he had boasted to his parents, and his mother had looked at him with strange eyes more than once, telling him how much of an embarrassment Xing Dairong was to the Luo family and mocking him for being blind and foolish to believe in her. Now, everything was true.

The truth stung like fire, infuriating Luo Heng so much that he no longer pretended to be a gentle gentleman, revealing his cruel nature. Looking at Xing Dairong, who was still stubbornly insisting he give her another chance, he grabbed the tray from the table and struck her viciously.

Chapter 49 Xing Dairong Returns

Lu Lingyun heard about Xing Dairong being beaten late that night.

Dong Sheng brought news from the Luo family's secondary residence.

That afternoon, a piercing scream echoed from the Luo family's secondary residence.

Xing Dairong was beaten by Luo Heng for an entire afternoon. It was only because her cries were too loud and pitiful, attracting all the neighbors to knock on the door, that Luo Heng finally stopped.

In his rage, Luo Heng didn't care about Xing Dairong at all. After beating her, he left her in the secondary residence and went back himself.

Once he left, he never returned.

Not only that, he took all the servants in the courtyard with him.

He acted as if Xing Dairong's life or death didn't matter to him.

Since Xing Dairong had run away secretly, she was still free and did not have a slave contract. When she ran to Luo Heng, she also broke ties with Cheng Yunshuo, so Luo Heng didn't care what happened to her.

No one cared about her.

Yang could beat her without restraint, and even though Luo Heng protected her, he still treated her coldly every day. The entire Luo family despised her. Everyone knew that Xing Dairong had nowhere else to go and no one to rely on.

The moment she fled Ningyang Marquis's residence, there was no one who could stand up for her or support her.

But she didn't realize this.

She caused a scene, made a fuss, and under Luo Heng's brutal beating, she finally saw the true nature of this era.

It wasn't the romantic world she imagined where she, as a time-traveler, could do whatever she wanted and live a carefree life.

She finally understood what reality was, and that she was just as insignificant in this world as she was in her previous one, with nothing special about her.

The next morning, Lu Lingyun was awakened by a servant's urgent report.

"Madam! Something terrible has happened!"

The sky was just beginning to lighten, and Lu Lingyun had just woken up from bed.

Shuang Hong stood at the door, "What are you doing? It's early in the morning, and our mistress is still sleeping!"

"Miss Shuang Hong, something really bad has happened!" The servant, from the marquis's residence, pointed urgently outside. At that moment, the door opened.

Lu Lingyun came out, wearing her robe.

It was already October, and the autumn frost was heavy; the weather was getting colder.

"What happened?"

"Madam, she's back!"

The servant pointed to the door.

"Who?"

"The former Miss Xing from Yaoguang Pavilion! She's lying injured at our gate! The gatekeeper said he didn't know when she arrived; he only saw her when he opened the small gate this morning!" The servant, catching his breath, spoke quickly.

"Why are you telling our madam about this? She's not one of us, just a runaway slave. Send her away!" Chunxing came out of the adjacent room, displeased.

"That's right. It would be best if that woman died outside. What she did brought shame to our marquis's residence!" Little Wei also expressed her dissatisfaction.

Lu Lingyun listened to these words and simply asked, "Enough, I'll go take a look."

When Lu Lingyun was fully dressed and reached the main gate, she saw Cheng Yunshuo was already there.

It seemed the servants had gone to him first.

Xing Dairong, lying at the gate, cried and rushed towards Cheng Yunshuo upon seeing him.

"Yunshuo!"

Her appearance was truly pitiful and miserable. Her face was swollen from the beating, her hair disheveled, and there were several bloodstains on her mouth and sleeve. With red, swollen eyes, she clung to Cheng Yunshuo's pants like a lifeline.

Cheng Yunshuo didn't move.

He looked down at her and coldly asked, "Did Luo Heng beat you?"

"Yes." A sob escaped her lips, and Xing Dairong cried harder, tears and snot streaming down her face. "Yunshuo! I know I was wrong. That Luo Heng hit me with a wooden tray, smashed my head. He's not human, he's a beast. I know I was wrong. I know you're the only one who cares about me in the whole world! I won't run away again, I know I was wrong!"

Amidst her sobs, Cheng Yunshuo coldly pulled away and walked towards the gate.

"Yunshuo! Yunshuo!"

Xing Dairong clung tightly to his leg, but all she received was a merciless kick. Cheng Yunshuo mounted his horse and left.

Those who had gathered at the gate felt vindicated.

"Well done, Prince!"

"He should have treated her like this long ago!"

"This time, Prince is truly heartbroken and will no longer care about her. She deserves it!"

Lu Lingyun listened to these words and watched Cheng Yunshuo ride away. Her eyes remained calm.

If she guessed correctly, Cheng Yunshuo was likely going to settle accounts with Luo Heng.

"Yunshuo! Don't you love me anymore?" Xing Dairong screamed from the ground.

Love?

There probably isn't much left of it.

Even if Cheng Yunshuo went to settle accounts with Luo Heng and beat him up, it wouldn't have much to do with love.

"Hey! Isn't this the future Missus Luo! What brings you here?"

At this moment, Qiu Ling also arrived with her entourage.

Seeing Xing Dairong in such a pitiful state, Qiu Ling's face lit up with glee. "I distinctly remember that just a few days ago, you were bragging to us about becoming the legitimate wife of the Luo family! So, what happened? Were you abandoned by the Luos? Oh, what a shame! What's going on with the Luos!"

"And why are you crying and shouting here again? Were you just now calling out to our Prince? Did you still have the nerve to ask if he loves you? Oh my, how could you even ask such a question! You should go find your little Master Luo! Didn't he say he loved you so much that he didn't care about your status and would carry you in on an eight-litter sedan chair with a grand wedding procession?"

With each word from Qiu Ling, the already battered and tormented Xing Dairong spat out a mouthful of blood and fainted, her head tilting to one side.

"Oh! I didn't touch her! Everyone saw it! Don't let her blame me!" Qiu Ling exclaimed upon seeing her faint.

Lu Lingyun, who had been watching from the side, smiled faintly and shook her head. "Alright, stop it."

"Madam..."

Lu Lingyun glanced at the unconscious Xing Dairong. "Take her back first."

"Yes."

Xing Dairong was carried back to the Marquis Manor.

But this time, she wasn't taken to Yaoguang Pavilion.

Lu Lingyun arranged for her to stay in the guest quarters of the Marquis Manor.

She called in a doctor to examine Xing Dairong.

Sitting in her courtyard, Qiu Ling chattered away. "Madam, why are you still bothering with her!"

"The Prince doesn't want her anymore; he didn't even look at her before leaving. Doesn't that show his stance clearly?"

"With all the terrible things she did, how can she still be allowed into our manor!"

Just as Qiu Ling was extremely displeased with Xing Dairong being brought in and having a doctor examine her, the doctor came in to report.

"Madam."

"How is she?"

"The young lady has mostly superficial wounds, but her head injury is quite severe. However, with proper rest, she will recover."

"Since she is not in any danger, we should send her away quickly," Qiu Ling muttered.

The next moment, the doctor added, "However, there is another matter with the patient."

"What is it?"

"The patient is one and a half months pregnant."

Chapter 50 Xing Dairong's Pregnancy

"What!"

Qiu Ling stood up abruptly upon hearing that Xing Dairong was pregnant, her eyes wide as she stared at the doctor.

Xing Dairong, she was pregnant.

Not only was Qiu Ling shocked, but Lu Lingyun also couldn't help but be startled, "She's pregnant?"

"Yes, Madam. From the pulse, the fetus in that lady's belly is less than two months old, but it has been at least one month. So I estimate it to be about one and a half months."

One and a half months. Xing Dairong had only been away for less than a month. According to the timeline,

it must be Cheng Yunshuo's child!

"Quickly, take me to see her!"

Lu Lingyun led the way to the guest room where Xing Dairong was staying.

She had just woken up, and Qiu Kua had come over to change her clothes and feed her some medicine. Now, she lay weakly on the bed. Hearing someone enter, she turned her head expectantly. Seeing Lu Lingyun come in with others, the light in her eyes dimmed instantly.

After a moment of complex emotions, she bit her chapped, pale lips and called out to Lu Lingyun, "Young Mistress."

"Now you know how to call her Young Mistress," Qiu Ling remarked.

Faced with Qiu Ling's provocation, Xing Dairong did not retaliate.

After all her escapades outside, she no longer had the fearless and invincible spirit she once had.

Compared to those outside, Qiu Ling's few taunts were nothing.

Now that she had returned in such a sorry state, she had to stay in the marquisate.

She could not be driven out again.

Since she was going to stay here, she had to humble herself.

Seeing Xing Dairong's submissive demeanor, Lu Lingyun's expression remained calm; she had known this would happen.

Reality truly was the best teacher. After being beaten down by reality, people grow up.

Without saying much more, she instructed the doctors who had been summoned again.

"Examine her again."

"Yes."

"Yes."

Four or five doctors stepped forward to take Xing Dairong's pulse on the spot.

Xing Dairong was a bit panicked but didn't dare to contradict anyone. She watched nervously as the four or five doctors finished taking her pulse and then went to report their findings in hushed tones to Lu Lingyun.

After hearing the consistent diagnosis from all the doctors, a hint of joy appeared between Lu Lingyun's brows.

She was pregnant.

Truly pregnant.

More than a month along.

Definitely Cheng Yunshuo's child.

She glanced at Xing Dairong, who was lying on the bed, clutching the blanket with one hand and gripping the bed frame with the other, her face filled with tension and fear. With a faint smile, she spoke.

"Qiu Ling, starting today, you will continue to attend to Miss Xing personally. Find another servant girl from the maid quarters to assist her well. Later, select a proper courtyard for Miss Xing to move into. If anything is lacking, come directly to me. Do not let Miss Xing suffer."

"Yes."

With that, Lu Lingyun left the guest room.

Xing Dairong was bewildered, listening in disbelief to what Lu Lingyun had said.

Why?

Why was Lu Lingyun being so kind to her?

At this moment, Qiu Ling cast a resentful and jealous gaze at her. "Hmph! You sure are lucky!"

Xing Dairong was puzzled and tried to get out of bed to ask, but Qiu Ling immediately rushed to her side, guarding her anxiously. "Miss, you are now pregnant; don't move around carelessly."

"What?!"

"Hmph! Behave yourself from now on. Don't think having a child means anything!" Qiu Ling glared at her viciously before turning to follow Lu Lingyun, leaving the room.

Xing Dairong, still in shock, gradually came to understand after everyone had left.

She—she was pregnant!

She... had Cheng Yunshuo's child!

In other words, she now had leverage to stay here!

Realizing this, Xing Dairong couldn't help but burst into uncontrollable laughter.

Her laughter reached the ears of those walking outside.

Hearing her grating laughter, Qiu Ling felt a sharp pang of jealousy. She twisted her handkerchief. "Young Lady, listen to that smug laughter! That wretched woman doesn't deserve to carry our Prince's child!"

"Shut up." Lu Lingyun rarely showed such coldness, but now she stopped and scanned Qiu Ling and everyone else. "Regardless of what Miss Xing has done in the past, she is carrying the first child of our marquisate. I will ensure that this child is born safely. Anyone who dares to sabotage this behind my back will face a thousand cuts!"

Lu Lingyun had never been so serious before.

Even when publicly dealing with Cui Da, she only ordered twenty strokes of the cane.

But this time, she spoke of a thousand cuts.

She was dead serious.

Lu Lingyun wanted the child, no matter who bore it. Any child of the marquisate was her child.

Due to her health and family circumstances, it was difficult for her to have children of her own. She did not want to risk her life again to give birth to someone else's child.

Living in this era, she needed a child by her side to secure her position. A woman's fertility was a major requirement in this society.

She could not let anyone discover her condition.

In her previous life, she suffered a difficult childbirth and couldn't bear children. She took Li Er's concubines under her wing and raised their children as her own, which helped her establish her footing.

To Lu Lingyun's pleasant surprise, she found that non-biological children had their advantages. Each child knew they were not her biological offspring, so they competed to win her favor and show filial piety.

They understood that their interests were tied to hers, and only by gaining her affection could they ensure a better future.

They cared about her more than biological children would.

Thus, whether the children were biologically hers made no difference to her.

She just needed one child to secure her position, grasp power, and bind their interests tightly together.

She was determined to protect Xing Dairong's child.

After warning everyone about this matter, she returned to her courtyard.

Upon returning, her first action was not to inform Cheng Yunshuo, but to send a message to Lady Qin.

Notifying the head of the household was essential.

She informed Lady Qin about Xing Dairong's pregnancy and her intention to elevate her to a concubine.

Since Xing Dairong's escape had been kept quiet, and the Luo family was also embarrassed and kept it hushed up, the news had spread only within a small circle.

Elevating Xing Dairong to a concubine would not be a grand affair; it would be handled quietly within the household.

That same evening, Lady Qin replied with her message.

She praised Lu Lingyun's virtue, consoled her for any perceived slight, and entrusted all the arrangements to her. Most of the letter was filled with compliments.

Lu Lingyun's lack of concern over the birth order of the children and her personal involvement in the affairs of the concubine and child were seen as exemplary of a virtuous matron. The Cheng family felt incredibly fortunate to have such a wonderful daughter-in-law!

Of course, besides the verbal praise, Lady Qin also bestowed a generous gift upon Lu Lingyun.

Ten bolts of fine silk, two bolts of Shu brocade, a cloak made from peacock fur, a white fox fur muffler, five bundles of ginseng, ten bundles of deer antlers, a box of bird's nest, a chest full of exquisite jewelry, and two large estates each yielding an annual income of five thousand taels as compensation to soothe Lu Lingyun's supposed distress and magnanimity.

Yet, Lady Qin had no idea that Lu Lingyun actually preferred others to bear the children.

Chapter 51 Tea with Xing Dairong

Lu Lingyun looked at the gifts of genuine silver and gold sent by Qin's family and smiled once again.

Her mother-in-law was truly a perceptive and generous person.

She did not just talk; she genuinely provided support.

Working with such a mother-in-law made life much easier.

Lingyun picked through the items, selecting three bolts of silk, half the ginseng and deer antlers, along with some less valuable pearl and jade jewelry from her dowry box that her aunts and maternal relatives had given her. She packed these into a box to send to Xing Dairong.

She instructed Shuang Hong to put away the rest of the items.

Meanwhile, in the Houfu's backyard, in the new courtyard, Yuerong Pavilion.

In the afternoon, Xing Dairong eagerly chose a courtyard.

Initially, she wanted to return directly to Yaoguang Pavilion, but Qiu Kui persuaded her. Xing Dairong, now more sensible, understood that to stay in the Houfu, she needed a legitimate identity.

Even if it was a position she previously despised, as a concubine.

Only by becoming a concubine with her own courtyard and stipend could she truly live in this era.

After considering this, she quickly found the second-closest courtyard to Yaoguang Pavilion.

The closest one was Autumn Fragrance Courtyard, where Qiu Ling resided.

This was actually better, allowing her to intercept him before he reached Yaoguang Pavilion.

After moving in, she immediately asked, "Has the Prince returned yet?"

"Not yet."

"I'll go greet him at the gate."

"Miss Xing, you're pregnant now, don't move around carelessly!" Qiu Kui chased after her, frowning.

Just as she reached the gate, Xing Dairong saw Cheng Yunshuo returning. Like a butterfly fluttering among flowers, she rushed to Cheng Yunshuo and threw herself onto him.

"Yunshuo!"

Cheng Yunshuo, who had just returned from his mission, frowned upon seeing Xing Dairong still there. "Who allowed you to be here!"

"Yunshuo!" Xing Dairong pouted, tears streaming down her face before she could speak.

"I didn't really do anything with Luo Heng. I didn't sleep with him; I'm still clean. I just wanted to upset you. Now I know I was wrong. Can you forgive me?"

"Haha." Cheng Yunshuo couldn't help but sneer, pushing Xing Dairong away and striding inside.

"Miss Xing!" Qiu Kui quickly supported Xing Dairong. "You're pregnant, be careful!"

Upon hearing "pregnant," Cheng Yunshuo stopped abruptly.

Xing Dairong took the opportunity to push Qiu Kui aside, her eyes red, and clung to Cheng Yunshuo's arm. "Hit me, hit me, hit our child too!"

Cheng Yunshuo looked at Xing Dairong in disbelief. "You're pregnant?"

"Yes."

At that moment, a light and calm voice sounded. Lu Lingyun, leading the people delivering the gifts, approached and greeted Cheng Yunshuo with a smile. "Prince, I was about to inform you about this matter."

"She is really pregnant?"

"Yes." Lu Lingyun nodded. "Over a month, but less than two months. Calculating the time, it happened within the Houfu."

"Yunshuo, we have our child now." Xing Dairong tightened her grip on his arm. "Can we start over?"

In the next instant, she was pushed away again.

"I don't want this child!" Cheng Yunshuo said coldly.

No man, regardless of the era, can easily tolerate betrayal.

When love was deep, the pain of betrayal was equally profound.

Xing Dairong had left without hesitation, even embracing Luo Heng in front of him, humiliating and provoking him. Who could bear such an act?

Cheng Yunshuo still cared for her, still loved her, but precisely because of this love, he could not overcome the hurt.

"Yunshuo!"

Seeing that Cheng Yunshuo truly ignored her, Xing Dairong panicked, her head injury worsening. With a sob, she closed her eyes and fainted again.

"Miss Xing!"

Qiu Kui hurriedly supported Xing Dairong, but she couldn't hold her. In the critical moment, Cheng Yunshuo grabbed her arm and caught her.

"Dairong!"

Watching the chaotic scene, Lu Lingyun remained calm. "Quick, fetch the doctor."

Soon, the doctor arrived to examine Xing Dairong again.

"The patient fainted due to sudden emotional distress. She will recover soon, but with her injuries and pregnancy, excessive emotional agitation must be avoided. She needs complete rest, or there is a risk of miscarriage."

Upon hearing "miscarriage," both Lu Lingyun and Cheng Yunshuo furrowed their brows tightly.

"We understand." Lu Lingyun glanced at the silent Cheng Yunshuo and asked the doctor to prescribe an herbal medicine for stabilizing the pregnancy, instructing Shuang Hong to fetch the medicine.

After everyone left, she said to Cheng Yunshuo, "Prince, I know you're angry, but after all, Miss Xing is carrying the Cheng family's child. I think it's best for her to give birth safely."

She spoke softly, but Cheng Yunshuo remained silent.

"Let me handle Miss Xing's affairs. I'll elevate her to a concubine," Lu Lingyun continued.

Cheng Yunshuo stood by the bed and looked at Xing Dairong, who was still unconscious and murmuring his name. He turned to Lu Lingyun, "Lingyun, if she had even a fraction of your understanding, things wouldn't have come to this."

Hearing this, Lu Lingyun's lips curved slightly. "Prince, you must be tired. Go back and rest. I'll take care of everything here."

Cheng Yunshuo nodded and left without another word.

After he left, Lu Lingyun looked at the woman lying on the bed. "Stop pretending. Open your eyes."

As she spoke, Xing Dairong, who had been feigning unconsciousness, opened her eyes with trembling lashes. She met Lu Lingyun's calm and composed gaze, as if everything had already been seen through.

Xing Dairong felt a sudden pang of guilt. She clutched the quilt and said, "I'm pregnant. What do you want?"

Lu Lingyun looked at her with a hint of understanding. "Enough. Tomorrow morning, come to my place and offer me a cup of tea."

Xing Dairong immediately lifted her head.

Lu Lingyun glanced at her. "Take good care of yourself and the baby. This child is your only hope for survival in the mansion. If anything happens to the child, no one can protect you!"

With that, she turned and left.

Xing Dairong bit her lip, watching her back, her eyes filled with confusion and complexity.

The next morning.

Xing Dairong arrived at Lu Lingyun's courtyard.

For the first time, she properly knocked on the door, waited for an announcement, and stood respectfully in the courtyard for a while before entering Lu Lingyun's quarters.

"Have you learned the proper etiquette?" Lu Lingyun asked, looking at Xing Dairong offering tea.

Xing Dairong nodded. At this moment, there was no trace of her previous arrogance and pride on her face.

"I offer tea to the mistress."

Kneeling on a cushion, Xing Dairong respectfully presented a cup of tea to Lu Lingyun.

Seeing this, Lu Lingyun did not prolong the moment. She took the tea cup, looked at the changed Xing Dairong, and sipped the tea. She then instructed, "In the future, serve the Prince well and behave properly in the household, and I will ensure the safety of you and your child."

A last flicker of reluctance flashed in Xing Dairong's eyes, but she bowed her head and said, "Yes, Mistress."

Chapter 52: Two Concubines Clash

Xing Dairong, having just paid her respects to the concubine in Lu Lingyun's courtyard, emerged from it.

Lu Lingyun had bestowed upon her numerous gifts, including a twenty-tael silver ingot as a concubine's red envelope.

She had now officially become Aunt Xing.

"Concubine Xing, please walk slowly," said Qiukui, carrying things behind her.

"Don't call me Concubine!"

Hearing the title "Concubine Xing," Xing Dairong felt uncomfortable all over.

Deep down, she still clung to that sliver of modern pride, and now that she had fallen to the status of a concubine, she could no longer bear to hear it.

"Oh, isn't this Concubine Xing?"

At that moment, a familiar, sarcastic voice rang out.

Qiu Ling approached with a seductive demeanor.

Seeing her, Xing Dairong felt a surge of anger. "Let's go."

"What's the rush, Concubine Xing? Now that both of us are concubines in the household, we're sisters from now on."

Xing Dairong was about to explode with rage.

Qiu Ling seemed born to antagonize her.

Now that she no longer had any conflict of interest with Lu Lingyun—since she could never compare to her anyway—why did Qiu Ling keep provoking her with her passive-aggressive tactics? She wouldn't be a proper time-traveler if she didn't defeat Qiu Ling.

She stopped and suppressed her anger. "Concubine Qiu, do you need something?"

"Of course, I came to congratulate Concubine Xing. You must have received many gifts after paying your respects, right?"

Xing Dairong's eyes flickered, and she immediately beckoned Qiukui and the maidservant carrying the items to come forward. "Oh, not much, really. The Young Lady gave me three batches of fine silk, ginseng, deer antlers, oh, and almost forgot, this box of jewelry. How could there be so much? I can't possibly wear it all!"

Imitating Qiu Ling's tone, she opened the jewelry box Lu Lingyun had given her, revealing a plethora of gold and silver pieces.

Qiu Ling's eyes widened in astonishment.

Qiu Ling had only a few decent pieces of jewelry. Concubines in the household received one piece of jewelry per year, and the rest depended on the mistress's generosity.

As a house-born servant, Qiu Ling had no dowry when she entered the household, and she had accumulated only a few pieces over the years. Her most presentable items were the gold hairpin and large gold bracelet she wore daily.

How could she have seen so much jewelry!

Seeing Qiu Ling's reaction, Xing Dairong felt a great sense of satisfaction. "Oh, Sister, you paid your respects earlier than me. The Mistress must have given you even more."

Xing Dairong knew exactly how poor Qiu Ling was; she always wore the same few pieces, and this would surely infuriate her.

Qiu Ling's eyes turned red with envy. "How could I compare to Concubine Xing? You carry the precious heir of the marquisate, so the Mistress has to favor the child, even if not the mother."

Her words implied that Xing Dairong had used her pregnancy to gain favor, and also hinted at her having conceived before being formally accepted into the household.

In the past, Xing Dairong would have fought back, but now, hah!

"Well, who can blame my fortunate womb? I remember the Prince first shared a room with you. With such a good opportunity, you couldn't hold onto it. Maybe you should think about whether it's you who's lacking."

Saying this, Xing Dairong patted her still-flat belly proudly.

Qiu Ling: "..."

"Chunxing, let's go!"

This round, Qiu Ling lost.

Fuming, Qiu Ling led her people to Lu Lingyun's courtyard.

Xing Dairong, feeling elated after her rare victory, watched Qiu Ling's retreating figure and scoffed.

Just wait.

If she couldn't beat Lu Lingyun, she could certainly beat Qiu Ling.

Since she had become a concubine, she intended to be the most favored one in the household. If she bore Cheng Yunshuo their first son, she might even climb higher!

"Qiukui, let's go!"

She needed to win back Cheng Yunshuo's affection!

In the main courtyard,

Lu Lingyun listened to Qiu Ling's tearful complaints while reviewing the accounts, occasionally offering soothing words.

Once the account review was complete, Qiu Ling had finished crying.

"All right, later I'll send you two bolts of cloth to make some new winter clothes," Lu Lingyun said, putting down the abacus.

Hearing the promise of gifts, Qiu Ling sniffled, "Young Lady, I just can't stand her attitude."

"Concubine Xing is now a concubine in the household. You are sisters and should get along well. Besides, she is pregnant, so be understanding. I understand your grievances."

Lu Lingyun smiled at her. "The new jewelry hasn't arrived in the treasury yet for this winter, but when it does, you'll be the first to choose, and I'll give you an extra piece."

She gave another piece of jewelry to Qiu Ling, and with this gesture, how could Qiu Ling not take the hint? "Thank you, Young Mistress. I know you care for me, so I won't feel wronged anymore."

Lu Lingyun smiled at this, comforted her by wiping away her tears, exchanged a few more pleasantries, and sent her back.

She watched Qiu Ling leave with the gifts and smiled contentedly.

She bestowed these favors on Qiu Ling partly to soothe her emotions and balance the scales between her and Xing Dairong.

Although Xing Dairong had done plenty of mischief in the past, she now had a son, making her significant.

But there were only two concubines in the household, and she couldn't let Xing Dairong bully Qiu Ling all the time. She needed to show favoritism towards Qiu Ling to ensure they remained evenly matched.

Additionally, it was also a subtle warning to Qiu Ling not to make any moves against Xing Dairong.

If Qiu Ling felt wronged, Lingyun could resolve it for her; she wouldn't lack for clothes or jewelry. If she still harbored other thoughts after receiving these gifts, it would be unforgivable.

After settling the minor conflict between the two, Lu Lingyun stretched lazily. "Any other trivial matters?"

"Oh, Young Mistress, Miss Wang sent word that a new troupe has arrived on West Street, performing some very novel plays. If you have time, you should go see them together."

Lu Lingyun thought for a moment. "Sure, let's go tomorrow."

"Alright, I'll send someone to reply."

In the evening.

Cheng Yunshuo finished his shift.

Ever since he joined the Imperial Guards, he found the work increasingly smooth.

In the past, Cheng Yunshuo had been lazy about his duties, spending years riding horses and wandering the streets with friends, looking down on those who worked diligently.

But somehow, perhaps due to his age, he began to find genuine pleasure in doing proper work. The more he did, the better he became at it.

He had just finished handling a case of petty theft, earning praise from his superiors, who promised to promote him. Cheng Yunshuo's steps were light as he returned home.

As soon as he entered the inner courtyard, he encountered Xing Dairong waiting in the cold wind.

"Yunshuo!"

Xing Dairong, seeing him, spoke in a sing-song voice, fluttering towards him like a flower butterfly.

Cheng Yunshuo immediately turned cold. "Stop!"

Chapter 53 Going to Watch a Play

"Yunshuo~"

Xing Dairong pouted, feeling wronged. She had to jog, but Cheng Yunshuo's cold glare stopped her.

"Don't you know you're pregnant? Why are you running around like this!"

Cheng Yunshuo looked at her coldly.

His gaze filled with increasing dissatisfaction.

In the past, he loved Xing Dairong, and no matter how rebellious she was, it was endearing.

But now, all he saw was how immature she was.

Being pregnant and still doing such strange things!

Hearing him say this, Xing Dairong blinked back tears, "You do care about me, don't you?"

"Hmph, don't talk nonsense." Cheng Yunshuo walked into the house coldly.

At that moment, Xing Dairong grabbed him from behind, "Yunshuo, stop pretending. I know you went to settle accounts with Luo Heng that day."

She had put in considerable effort yesterday to find out Cheng Yunshuo's whereabouts from Qingfeng.

She learned that when she came begging that day, Cheng Yunshuo didn't leave her; instead, he went to confront Luo Heng.

Suddenly, she understood.

Cheng Yunshuo still cared for her.

She clung tightly to Cheng Yunshuo's waist, knowing deeply after all these trials that in this era, only Cheng Yunshuo truly cared for her.

"Yunshuo, you said you would love me forever. Now I know, I will never leave you again."

She whispered plaintively as she clung to his back, recalling their initial sweet and loving moments.

Unfortunately,

her hands were slowly pried away.

Finally, with great force.

"Lingyun is kind-hearted to keep you here; it wasn't my idea." Cheng Yunshuo pushed her away and strode forward.

Hearing this, Xing Dairong bit her lower lip, her eyes red as she watched Cheng Yunshuo's back. "Cheng Yunshuo! I will make you fall in love with me again!"

That night, Cheng Yunshuo didn't go anywhere. He bypassed the Autumn Fragrance Courtyard and headed straight to Yaoguang Pavilion.

Qiu Ling, who had been waiting in the courtyard, was furious when she found out Cheng Yunshuo hadn't come and had been blocked by Xing Dairong.

"That vixen really has some tricks up her sleeve. No wonder she came from a brothel, luring men right outside!"

Qiu Ling grew angrier as she cursed, repeatedly calling her shameless.

She chose a courtyard closer to the outside, always luring people away.

At the same time, she thought to herself that she couldn't just sit idly by; she needed to take the initiative.

She had to intercept him before Xing Dairong did!

In the backyard, the two women engaged in covert battles, which Lu Lingyun observed.

Seeing that their tactics were nothing special and neither gained an upper hand, she decided not to take sides. The next day, she took the opportunity to watch a play with Wang Qiluo.

They could fight their own battles while she enjoyed her music.

In the western part of the city.

Lu Lingyun visited her family's shop on the way to the west side of the city. Dong Sheng greeted her with a smile upon seeing her.

"Madam."

"How have things been these past few days?"

"The weather is getting colder, and business at the general store is better every day."

Lu Lingyun nodded.

"What brings you here, Madam?"

"I'm here to watch a play in West Street."

"Is it the new Liu Family Troupe at Yatingshe?"

"You know about them too?"

"Yes, I even know one of their lead actresses!"

Lu Lingyun realized that Dong Sheng was not only efficient but also adept at gathering information and building connections.

"Then come with me."

"Sure thing!"

Dong Sheng accompanied Lu Lingyun to Yatingshe.

Their carriage drove directly into the backyard of Yatingshe.

She had just arrived when she saw the Wang family's carriage had already reached.

"Madam Cheng, is that right?"

A young attendant from the theater approached.

In this era, married women were generally addressed by their husband's surname, though if the woman's family was more prestigious than her husband's, she could use her maiden name.

"It's me," Lu Lingyun nodded.

"Miss Wang is already in the private room on the second floor."

"Alright." Lu Lingyun nodded at him and followed him upstairs.

Passing through the backyard, she saw the theater troupe moving props and setting up for the performance. Dong Sheng, seeing the cluttered items, spread his arms to shield them, ensuring Lu Lingyun passed safely.

Upon reaching the second floor, Wang Qiluo was already seated inside, munching on nuts while waiting for the show to begin.

"Lingyun!"

"Qiluo."

Lu Lingyun sat opposite her. As soon as she settled down, Wang Qiluo began chattering away, "Do you remember Luo Heng? The one we met at your place last time."

"What about him?"

"Do you know? His family recently proposed marriage to the daughter of Li the Censor."

"Oh? What happened?"

"As it turns out, Li the Censor's wife knows my mother. When she mentioned this, my mother urged her to reject the proposal."

Lu Lingyun breathed a slight sigh of relief.

"You wouldn't believe how messy their family is. I heard that Luo Heng actually keeps a concubine, not just any concubine, but one he houses outside in a separate courtyard," Wang Qiluo gossiped, "My mother told Mrs. Li to turn him down immediately, no matter what."

Lu Lingyun couldn't help but smile faintly. The news of Luo Heng keeping Xing Dairong had indeed spread.

However, both she and the Luo family had managed to keep the identity of the concubine under wraps; everyone knew there was someone, but not who it was.

"Guess what?"

"What happened?"

"Now, almost everyone in the Imperial City knows about his son's character. Families with daughters are all avoiding him. Who would dare marry into such a family? I heard from my mother that Luo Heng's mother, Lady Yang, is furious at home, throwing tantrums every day, cursing her son for being foolish, making it impossible for anyone to marry him."

Lu Lingyun chuckled at this. In those days, marriages were heavily influenced by the family's reputation and character.

The Luo family, newcomers to the capital, had yet to establish themselves properly. No one knew much about them until Xing Dairong caused a stir, revealing the true nature of the Luo family.

Luo Heng, that fool, never expected that his attempt to gain something would backfire so badly. He had hoped Xing Dairong would bring him some surprise, but now, no one in the Imperial City would dare marry their daughter to him.

It was karma, they got what they deserved for their ill intentions!

After finishing their gossip, the sounds of lively drums and cymbals from the stage outside signaled the start of the performance.

"Alright, let's watch the show!" Wang Qiluo excitedly looked at the beautiful female lead entering the stage, "I heard this is a new play about a woman disguising herself as a man in the military camp. It's going to be fun."

"Mm."

Lu Lingyun looked at the handsome male lead on stage and noticed that the female lead seemed somewhat familiar.

"Hey, did they change the female lead today?" Dong Sheng, who had been following Lu Lingyun, couldn't help but ask, "Isn't it Qiao Jie?"

Lu Lingyun turned to look at Dong Sheng, who keenly observed, "They really did change the actress. She looks somewhat familiar."

Chapter 54 Reencounter with Liu Shuhui

Hearing Dong Sheng say so, Lu Lingyun found the person even more familiar.

But for the moment, she focused on enjoying the performance.

This was a new play about a woman disguising herself as a man to join the military camp, breaking the enemy forces and retiring in glory.

The play was excellently staged, and the female lead was unrecognizable as a man, exuding heroic charm, performing exceptionally well.

At the end, the audience burst into applause, and even Lu Lingyun couldn't help cheering several times.

Wang Qiluo was so excited that she wanted to see the female lead in person, but unfortunately, the troupe leader informed everyone that the actress would not be seeing visitors today.

Wang Qiluo immediately became disappointed.

"Miss, what's the big deal? If you want to meet her, I can take you directly to the backyard," Dong Sheng said, noticing her disappointment.

Wang Qiluo perked up instantly. "Sure, let's go see her."

Since Lu Lingyun had nothing else to do, she allowed Wang Qiluo to lead them to the backyard.

Dong Sheng went ahead into the Liu troupe alone. After he left, the troupe members started moving their props back, carrying things away. Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo stood by the edge of the courtyard when one of the helpers slipped, causing a box full of weapons to tumble over.

Coincidentally, it fell towards Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo.

Wang Qiluo, being brave, having practiced martial arts since childhood, immediately shielded Lu Lingyun behind her, trying to catch the falling weapons.

She swiftly caught a couple of them, but then a massive Green Dragon Crescent Blade fell straight towards Wang Qiluo.

The troupe's weapons were not entirely fake, and this large blade could still cause serious injury if it hit someone.

In a split second, a man wearing a patched blue robe rushed forward.

"Bang!"

A muffled groan echoed.

All the weapons heading towards Wang Qiluo and Lu Lingyun were blocked.

Wang Qiluo opened her eyes in surprise, seeing a tall figure holding a spear, deflecting all the weapons.

"Qiluo!"

Lu Lingyun regained her composure and immediately pulled Wang Qiluo back several steps, looking at her anxiously.

"How are you? Are you hurt anywhere?"

As she spoke, the man turned around. Seeing Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo, his eyes showed confusion. "What are you doing here! This is no place for people like you!"

Hearing this, Lu Lingyun's anger flared after the shock. She was usually calm and reasonable, but when someone almost harmed her most important person, she could be unreasonable too. "Do you think saying that makes everything okay? If my sister had been injured today, your entire troupe would be finished!"

Her words made the man stare at Lu Lingyun and scoff coldly. "So it really is you. You're as unreasonable as ever."

Lu Lingyun glanced at him, recognizing the patched blue-robed man as Liu Shuhui, whom she had met once before!

Suddenly, she realized why the actress on stage looked so familiar—it was him in disguise!

For a moment, she was speechless. Then, Wang Qiluo spoke up. "Lingyun, I'm fine."

Wang Qiluo turned to Liu Shuhui and thanked him politely. "Thank you, sir, for saving us."

"Hmph, you're more reasonable than your sister," Liu Shuhui grumbled.

Lu Lingyun: "..."

"Sir, please don't blame her; she was just worried about me. May I ask your name so we can thank you properly..."

"No need. It's a trivial matter. Just don't cause trouble and then blame others."

Liu Shuhui turned and walked away without another glance at Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo.

Lu Lingyun: "..."

Encountering this stubborn mule ruined her good days.

"Really unlucky to run into him," Lu Lingyun muttered aloud.

"Lingyun, do you know that gentleman?" Wang Qiluo asked, still watching him.

"Yes, his name is Liu Shuhui, a scholar who came to the capital for the imperial exams."

"Oh, so he's a learned man," Wang Qiluo murmured.

At that moment, Dong Sheng led out a young woman. "Miss, Miss Wang, I've brought the actress Qiao Jie."

The girl looked pale and sickly, clearly unwell, and it was evident that she wasn't the main actress today.

"You're not today's lead actress, right?" Wang Qiluo asked her.

"Yes, Miss. I caught a cold yesterday, so someone else took my place today," Qiao Jie replied softly.

Dong Sheng added, "Miss, guess who replaced Qiao Jie today?"

Lu Lingyun: "..."

She knew; she had already seen.

"Who was it?"

"It's that Liu Shuhui from the inn last time!"

"It's him!" Wang Qiluo exclaimed.

"Yes, Big Brother Liu from the Liu family is my brother's good friend. My brother passed away suddenly not long ago, and it was he who helped with the arrangements. I've been ill with a cold these past few days, and when Big Brother Liu came to visit me, the troupe leader insisted I perform. So he took my place for a day." Jiao Jie looked at Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo, "I hope you ladies won't spread this around. Big Brother Liu has the spring examinations next year, and I don't want to affect him."

As she finished speaking, Dong Sheng whispered to Lu Lingyun.

"Miss, Jiao Jie is the sister of the scholar who fell at the inn. She's also had a hard life. To help her brother come to the capital for the exams, she sold herself to the theater troupe to raise the travel fees."

Hearing this, Lu Lingyun said, "We won't talk about it."

"I didn't expect that young master to have such a chivalrous heart," Wang Qiluo remarked, giving Jiao Jie a large red envelope, "Take care of yourself. I'll come watch your troupe's performances often in the future."

"Thank you, Miss." Jiao Jie gratefully accepted the money.

Lu Lingyun also gave her a tip before leaving the back courtyard with Wang Qiluo.

Along the way, Wang Qiluo kept saying, "Lingyun, isn't it interesting? That Young Master Liu actually knows how to sing opera."

Lu Lingyun knew some of Liu Shuhui's background. His father died early, and his mother used to be an opera singer. When he was young, his mother had to perform to make ends meet.

"Alright, don't spread this around. He still has to take the examinations."

"Of course, I wouldn't tell anyone." Wang Qiluo's eyes sparkled, "But I did meet an interesting person."

Lu Lingyun: "..."

Interesting Liu Shuhui? If she knew how stubborn and difficult he could be, would she still find him interesting?

Lu Lingyun remained silent and continued shopping with Wang Qiluo until dusk approached, then they returned to their respective residences.

As soon as she stepped into the marquis's mansion, a servant reported to her.

"Young Lady, you're back."

"What is it?"

"A message came from your family. Your mother hasn't been feeling well these past few days. If you have time, please go and see her."

Chapter 55 Xing Dairong Gains Favor Again

Lady Liu is sick?

In her previous life, Lu Lingyun didn't hear much about this at the time.

Perhaps it was because she married Li Er in her previous life and wasn't a biological daughter, so Lady Liu's illness didn't affect her much, and thus she wasn't notified.

This life, however, she is the lady of the marquisate.

"I understand. I'll visit her tomorrow."

"Yes."

She sent someone to convey the message back and stepped into the courtyard.

As soon as she entered the inner courtyard, she saw two people arguing.

"You're shameless!"

"You're the one who's shameless!"

"Why don't you go back to your own quarters? What are you doing here?"

"And what about you? You keep running out, trying to seduce the heir with your charms!"

Lu Lingyun: "..."

Xing Dairong and Qiu Ling were arguing when Cheng Yunshuo returned.

Seeing Cheng Yunshuo come back, both of them rushed forward.

"Heir, you're finally back."

"Yunshuo! I've been waiting for you for so long."

"Heir, I made your favorite vinegar fish for you."

"Yunshuo, come to my place; the child wants to have dinner with you."

Seeing the two women vying for his attention, Cheng Yunshuo felt a headache coming on. He looked left and right, and finally, his gaze fell on Lu Lingyun.

"Lingyun, I'll have dinner at your place."

Hearing him say this, the two quarreling women fell silent.

They exchanged a resentful glance but ultimately said nothing as they watched Cheng Yunshuo leave with Lu Lingyun.

"It's all your fault! If you hadn't gone so far out, would Yunshuo have gone to her place?"

"How dare you say that! It's all your fault! You always use your charms to seduce people on the way. If you hadn't lured him first, I wouldn't have followed!"

The two women blamed each other and started arguing again.

Cheng Yunshuo had a relaxed dinner with Lu Lingyun.

During the meal, he talked about some matters from the Prefectural Commandant Manor, and Lu Lingyun listened quietly. When he finished, she responded.

"Your Prefectural Commandant Manor is promoting a new commander?"

"Mm."

"Do you want to be selected?"

Cheng Yunshuo thought for a moment, "Let it be."

There were many colleagues of his rank, and their seniority was higher than his. Cheng Yunshuo wasn't particularly eager for promotion; if it happened, he'd be happy, and if not, then not.

Cheng Yunshuo's thoughts were still quite simple.

Lu Lingyun smiled faintly, "Mm, the heir will get what he wishes."

Hearing Lu Lingyun say this, Cheng Yunshuo once again felt very comfortable talking to her.

He wouldn't talk about these things with Qin. Even if he knew that telling Qin would ensure his promotion to the new commander, it wasn't the kind of outcome he wanted.

He wouldn't talk about these things with Qiu Ling either; she wouldn't understand or care.

And Xing Dairong, under their previous relationship, he might have shared a bit with her, but he knew she couldn't help with anything.

Only with Lu Lingyun could he naturally discuss his work, feeling relaxed and at ease.

After dinner with Lu Lingyun, he left feeling refreshed.

"I'll come here for dinner again tomorrow."

"Alright." Lu Lingyun nodded with a smile.

After seeing him off, Chunhe couldn't help but say, "Young Lady, you should have kept the heir here!"

Nanny An, watching from the courtyard, added, "What a good opportunity! You should have seized it!"

Lu Lingyun glanced at them calmly, and everyone fell silent.

"Prepare for rest."

Lu Lingyun turned and went back into the house.

Over here, Cheng Yunshuo left Lu Lingyun, and on the way, Qingfeng said, "Young Master, why didn't you stay overnight with Young Lady?"

Qingfeng's words caused Cheng Yunshuo to pause slightly.

But soon, he shook his head.

He hadn't even considered it.

His relationship with Lu Lingyun wasn't like that of Qiu Ling and Xing Dairong, rooted in romantic feelings.

This lack of romantic feelings made him respect and trust her even more.

If Lu Lingyun had suggested he stay overnight, it would have made him uncomfortable, affecting their pure friendship.

Determined to return to his own courtyard, he encountered Xing Dairong still guarding the entrance.

Xing Dairong saw Cheng Yunshuo returning.

"Yunshuo!"

She approached him once again.

Seeing she hadn't returned to her courtyard and was still guarding the path, he asked, "What are you doing here?"

"I knew you wouldn't stay overnight with Lu Lingyun," Xing Dairong said confidently.

Because she truly understood Cheng Yunshuo.

She had loved him passionately, far more than Qiu Ling ever could.

When Qiu Ling saw Cheng Yunshuo leave with Lu Lingyun, she thought there was no need to wait for him anymore.

She could go to Xing Dairong's courtyard to seek comfort but not to Lu Lingyun's.

But Xing Dairong knew that Cheng Yunshuo was very devoted and wouldn't easily be unfaithful.

After she spoke, Cheng Yunshuo visibly paused.

The feeling of being understood struck him again.

Xing Dairong truly understood him.

"Yunshuo..." Xing Dairong clung to his arm and leaned against his shoulder. "I really have nothing with Luo Heng; I am clean. At that time, I was just angry. You asked me to be your concubine, and it hurt me deeply. I understand you so well; don't you understand me too?"

Her tone softened, and her gentle demeanor melted Cheng Yunshuo's heart.

With Lu Lingyun's mediation over the past few days, his resentment had diminished significantly. Now, hearing Xing Dairong speak this way, how could he not be moved?

Looking at his former love under the moonlight, he hesitated, then said firmly, "Go back and rest; it's late."

"No!" Xing Dairong pouted at him. "Until you forgive me, I won't rest. I'm too upset to sleep!"

"Go back; you have a child!"

Hearing him mention the child, Xing Dairong's eyes lit up with victory.

She knew that Cheng Yunshuo still cared for her!

Mentioning the child meant he could accept and acknowledge her!

"Yunshuo, I became a concubine for you; I'd do anything for you. For the sake of our child, let's start anew."

She pressed her advantage.

This strike left Cheng Yunshuo with no escape.

She had changed completely, whether for him or herself. She was no longer the same person.

Cheng Yunshuo looked at her and simply said, "Go back to bed."

"I want you to accompany me!"

That night, Cheng Yunshuo stayed in Xing Dairong's courtyard.

However, he did not share a room with her. Xing Dairong was pregnant and at risk of miscarriage, so no matter what she said or did, Cheng Yunshuo did not touch her.

The next day, everyone in the household knew that Xing Dairong was regaining favor.

The maids sighed, believing that Xing Dairong's change would bring her back into favor.

But Lu Lingyun was not worried, as she knew that if Xing Dairong ceased to be herself, she would not regain her previous love.

Chapter 56 She Wanted to Harm Our Child

Lu Lingyun went to her maternal home early in the morning.

Qiu Ling had intended to find Lu Lingyun and pour out her grievances but found no one there.

In the marquisate, Xing Dairong relied on Cheng Yunshuo, so she could only rely on Lu Lingyun.

Depressed, Qiu Ling walked back and ran into Xing Dairong.

"Oh, isn't this Aunt Qiu?"

The wheel of fortune turns; today it's Xing Dairong's turn.

Yesterday, with her gentle and considerate demeanor, she managed to keep Cheng Yunshuo by her side. Regardless of whether they shared a bed or if he forgave her, she had already made significant progress.

As long as she maintained this pace, Cheng Yunshuo would eventually fall in love with her again.

With a man's support, Xing Dairong felt emboldened once more.

"Are you looking for the young mistress?"

She raised an eyebrow and said to Aunt Qiu.

Today was the perfect opportunity to take care of Qiu Ling while Lu Lingyun was away!

"Yes, I came to greet the young mistress."

Lu Lingyun didn't enforce many rules, not requiring the concubines to stand in attendance daily. However, to please Lu Lingyun, Qiu Ling almost always came over every day to show her face.

"You're really good at groveling, aren't you? You must put a lot of effort into pleasing the young mistress!"

Qiu Ling's brows immediately furrowed. "What do you mean by groveling? Can't you speak properly!"

"The young mistress never asked you to come and greet her, yet you show up every day. What is that if not groveling! No wonder you're a servant! Acting like a servant!"

Qiu Ling was so angry that steam seemed to be coming out of her ears. "I may be a servant, but I know my place. What do you know about propriety! Even when His Highness went to the young mistress, you still tried to seduce him away. You have no sense of propriety whatsoever! No wonder you're a lowly courtesan from a brothel!"

"Do you think I won't tell Yunshuo what you said?!"

"Go ahead and tell him! Do you really think His Highness cares about your background?" Qiu Ling straightened her neck, like a goose ready to attack, and pecked at Xing Dairong. "A courtesan from a brothel, which man would take you seriously? You shamelessly try to seduce every man you see. His Highness regrets his decision long ago!"

"Do you know how happy everyone in the household was after you left! Everyone behind your back spits and curses you. His Highness had to tell everyone to shut up and not mention you, a worthless wretch. If it weren't for your persistent clinging and the child in your belly, who would let you through this door!"

Hearing Qiu Ling's relentless barrage, Xing Dairong's face turned green with anger. She panted heavily, glaring at Qiu Ling, then quickly clutched her stomach. "Ouch, ouch, my stomach hurts, my stomach hurts!"

"Aunt Xing!" Qiu Kuang hurried forward.

Xing Dairong dramatically cried out, "My stomach hurts so much! The child might be harmed by her anger. Quickly call His Highness back!"

Seeing this, Qiu Ling's face turned pale. She tried to help Xing Dairong, but Xing Dairong pushed her away. "You want to harm me!"

Qiu Ling, nearly stumbling, looked anxiously at Xing Dairong. "Don't talk nonsense; I didn't harm you."

"You can't escape! Go call His Highness!"

Cheng Yunshuo, on duty, was urgently summoned back to the residence.

Upon arriving at Yuerong Pavilion, he heard wails of pain inside.

"My child! My child!"

"Dairong!" Cheng Yunshuo rushed into the room and saw Xing Dairong lying on the bed.

The doctor was attending to her.

"What happened!"

Seeing Cheng Yunshuo return, Xing Dairong acted even more dramatically, complaining in a soft voice, "Yunshuo! You finally came back!"

"What happened to you!"

Cheng Yunshuo rushed to her side.

The doctor beside them said, "The concubine seems to have been agitated, causing fetal distress."

The doctor, hired permanently by the marquisate, knew Xing Dairong was fine, but seeing Cheng Yunshuo's concern, he had to say something.

In those days, doctors not only treated illnesses but also catered to the wishes of their masters.

Hearing the doctor's words, Cheng Yunshuo's face darkened with anger. "How did this happen!"

"She angered me!" Xing Dairong pointed at Qiu Ling, who stood in the corner, looking both resentful and terrified. "She provoked me today and even tried to push me! Yunshuo, she wanted to harm our child!"

Hearing such baseless accusations, Qiu Ling hastily defended herself. "Your Highness, I didn't. She started the argument, calling me a servant. I only responded."

At this moment, Cheng Yunshuo was too agitated to listen to reason. "Aren't you a servant! What is Dairong's status compared to yours! Why provoke her when you know she's pregnant!"

Tears streamed down Qiu Ling's face, her eyes filled with grievance. "Your Highness..."

"Go back to your quarters! Confined for half a month, no leaving!"

Cheng Yunshuo angrily commanded.

Qiu Ling, hearing this, covered her face and ran out, sobbing.

Watching her retreat, Xing Dairong felt immensely satisfied. How dare Qiu Ling think she could compete with her, as if watching palace dramas was for nothing!

Her triumphant gaze met Cheng Yunshuo's eyes.

Xing Dairong immediately let out a whimper and collapsed into Cheng Yunshuo's arms. "Yunshuo, you're finally back. I was so angry just now; it's a good thing you're here."

Cheng Yunshuo looked at Xing Dairong's delicate appearance and felt something was off. She seemed different from the straightforward girl she used to be.

But given that Xing Dairong was pregnant, he felt a certain bias towards her and gently comforted her, "Don't get upset so easily. Your health is fragile, and the child needs to be taken care of properly."

"Mm-hmm." Xing Dairong nodded meekly. "I'll listen to you, but you need to protect me and the child in the future."

"I know."

In the end, Cheng Yunshuo couldn't resist the allure of his ex-girlfriend, and his heart leaned more towards her.

When Lu Lingyun returned from her mother's house, she heard about the commotion in the mansion.

"Is Aunt Qiu under house arrest?"

"Yes."

Lu Lingyun furrowed her brows. "Gather everyone who witnessed the incident today."

"Yes!"

Soon, all those who had seen the argument came before Lu Lingyun to recount what had happened.

Through their accounts, Lu Lingyun pieced together the events.

She asked, "Was it Xing Dairong who started the trouble and insulted others?"

"Yes, Aunt Xing first insulted Aunt Qiu's servants and even said that Aunt Qiu was groveling to you..."

Lu Lingyun's frown deepened, and she continued, "Did Qiu Ling push Xing Dairong?"

"Not at all; Aunt Qiu seemed to want to help Aunt Xing."

The speakers were all servants in the mansion. Xing Dairong had a poor reputation and no popularity among them, so no one bothered to cover for her.

After understanding the situation clearly, Lu Lingyun's expression grew even more serious.

She reprimanded Qiu Ling, telling her not to resort to violence, but that troublemaker Xing Dairong was no saint either.

Even if Qiu Ling didn't provoke her, Xing Dairong would still cause trouble.

And then there was Cheng Yunshuo, the biased man who didn't even bother to ask about the details of the incident.

Chapter 56: Jump High, Get Slapped

Lu Lingyun knew that Cheng Yunshuo was biased.

He was reasonable and discerning, but when it came to certain matters, he was utterly blind.

Without even asking about the situation, he directly placed Qiu Ling under house arrest.

In the end, it all boiled down to his favoritism towards Xing Dairong.

That Xing Dairong... she needed to be taught a lesson.

She had been more lenient because of her pregnancy, but this courtyard was hers.

Whoever jumped high would get slapped.

"Come with me to Yuerong Pavilion."

"Yes!"

Lu Lingyun led the way to Yuerong Pavilion.

After returning in the afternoon, Cheng Yunshuo didn't go back to work and spent the entire afternoon with Xing Dairong.

"Tonight, you must stay with me too."

"Dairong..."

"No, the child needs you." Xing Dairong pouted.

At that moment, a voice came from the courtyard, "What's wrong with the child?"

Hearing Lu Lingyun's voice, Xing Dairong's face immediately changed, and even Cheng Yunshuo's expression became serious.

Both of them looked towards the door, where they saw Lu Lingyun leading someone in.

"Lingyun, you're back."

"Madam," Xing Dairong hid half her body behind Cheng Yunshuo and spoke weakly.

"I heard you almost miscarried again today?"

Lu Lingyun approached with a concerned look.

In front of Cheng Yunshuo, Xing Dairong could freely twist the truth, but in front of Lu Lingyun, she dared not make up stories. "Madam, I'm fine now."

Lu Lingyun sat down on her own and continued with a faint smile, "I heard it was Aunt Qiu who pushed you?"

Xing Dairong's eyes flickered. "She probably didn't do it on purpose."

"Lingyun, I've already handled the matter; I put Qiu Ling under house arrest," Cheng Yunshuo interjected.

Hearing these biased words, Lu Lingyun didn't bother arguing further. "Since the Prince has already dealt with it, I won't say more. Let's follow your decision."

She gave Cheng Yunshuo enough face.

Listening to this, Xing Dairong felt more confident, thinking that holding onto Cheng Yunshuo was right. Whatever he said, Lu Lingyun couldn't object.

Just as she was feeling smug, she heard Lu Lingyun continue, "Aunt Qiu has been dealt with, so Aunt Xing will be under my care. Prince, please leave now."

Xing Dairong was startled and instinctively clutched Cheng Yunshuo's arm.

Cheng Yunshuo also looked at Lu Lingyun. "Lingyun, what else needs to be done for Dairong?"

Lu Lingyun glanced at him. "Aunt Xing's pregnancy is unstable, which is unacceptable. From today onwards, Aunt Xing will be under my full care until her condition stabilizes."

Her words left no room for argument, making Xing Dairong stiffen.

She clung tightly to Cheng Yunshuo, shaking her head and pleading, "Yunshuo, I don't want to..."

"Aunt Xing," Lu Lingyun said, "don't be unreasonable. If it happens once or twice, it's our oversight, but if it keeps happening, it's your fault as a mother."

This stern reprimand made even the muddled Cheng Yunshuo come to his senses. "Dairong, you can't act like a child anymore. If you can't take care of yourself, Lingyun will have to watch over you."

Xing Dairong: "...Yunshuo, then you take care of me..."

"Aunt Xing, the Prince is busy with official duties and cannot be here constantly," Lu Lingyun said calmly, turning to Cheng Yunshuo.

"Prince, please leave. Aunt Xing is pregnant, and your presence might lead to complications. For Aunt Xing and the child's safety, you should not spend the night in Yuerong Pavilion during this period."

Xing Dairong had urged Cheng Yunshuo to place Qiu Ling under house arrest for half a month, so Lu Lingyun would ensure he didn't come at night!

Little miss, if I don't teach you a lesson, you won't know your place!

Hearing Lu Lingyun's firm words, Xing Dairong looked even more helpless at Cheng Yunshuo.

Unfortunately,

Cheng Yunshuo agreed with Lu Lingyun and did not want to spend the night with Xing Dairong recently.

He still harbored resentment and wasn't ready to forgive her quickly.

"That sounds good. I am quite busy lately, and I trust Lingyun to take care of you."

Hearing this, Xing Dairong's heart sank.

Xing Dairong wanted to cry and protest, but seeing the distant look in Cheng Yunshuo's eyes, she held back and watched him leave.

After Cheng Yunshuo left, Lu Lingyun looked at the sulking woman on the bed and coldly hummed, "You really don't remember what I told you. Didn't I tell you to behave?"

Xing Dairong turned to look at her, not knowing whether it was because Cheng Yunshuo didn't help her or because she knew she had a child to rely on. Lu Lingyun said this, and she glared angrily, "It was Qiu Ling who provoked me first!"

"Really? Should I bring everyone out to confront you face-to-face? I'm not Cheng Yunshuo; I don't blindly favor anyone."

Hearing this, Xing Dairong felt a surge of anger in her chest. "What do you want then! Do you want to kill me?"

"How could I kill you? I promised the Prince to take care of you, so I will take care of you. Bring the medicine."

Lu Lingyun waved her hand.

Shuang Hong brought up a large bowl of prepared pregnancy-preserving medicine.

"What is this?"

"Aren't you feeling unwell today? I asked the doctor to prescribe pregnancy-preserving medicine for you. From now on, you must drink this medicine three times a day, before every meal!"

This was the special pregnancy-preserving medicine that Lu Lingyun had prepared for Xing Dairong, with extra doses and no sweetening agents to make it more palatable.

Seeing the large bowl of dark, bitter medicine, Xing Dairong refused repeatedly, but she had no say in the matter. The maidservants by Lu Lingyun's side held her down firmly, pried open her mouth, and poured the medicine in.

After swallowing the full bowl of bitter medicine, Xing Dairong finally calmed down.

Lu Lingyun looked at Xing Dairong, who was vomiting by the bed with a bitter expression, and got up.

"I am fair. It takes two to quarrel. While Qiu Ling isn't innocent, she has already been confined. For each day she is confined, you must drink this medicine for that many days."

"Chunhe, stay here these few days to ensure Aunt Xing drinks her medicine."

"Yes."

After saying this, Lu Lingyun left with her entourage.

After she left, she sent someone to the confined Autumn Fragrance Courtyard. She didn't go herself but sent a message to Qiu Ling, telling her that Xing Dairong would be drinking medicine for as many days as she was confined.

She didn't need to personally comfort Qiu Ling; disciplining Xing Dairong was the best comfort. Besides, Qiu Ling also had her faults in the argument and needed to learn her lesson.

At the very least, she needed to understand clearly that Cheng Yunshuo was biased. Provoking Xing Dairong wouldn't bring her any benefits.

To compete with others, one must assess their own resources. Without favor or support, always confronting others head-on is foolish!

After Lu Lingyun disciplined her, Xing Dairong remained quiet for several days.

In a blink, half a month passed.

Chapter 58 Aunt Qiu Sees Through Men

Qiu Ling's confinement was lifted, and Xing Dairong could stop taking her pregnancy-stabilizing medicine.

After Lu Lingyun's reprimand, both of them behaved themselves much better.

After leaving the Autumn Fragrance Courtyard, Qiu Ling went to Lu Lingyun's place to pay her respects right away.

"Madam," Qiu Ling stood before Lu Lingyun.

Lu Lingyun said nothing, silently drinking a cup of tea.

Qiu Ling stood there properly, not daring to speak, the look of grievance in her eyes growing stronger.

Seeing her like that, Lu Lingyun put down her teacup, "Are you still resentful towards me?"

Qiu Ling lowered her head, "This servant doesn't dare."

To be honest, as the head of the household, Lu Lingyun was already one of the most tolerant in wealthy families. In which family did the mistress treat the concubines with such leniency?

Leaving aside those who were overly jealous and harsh, most mistresses required their concubines to stand in attendance every day, serve meals, and even wash their feet at night. They would have the concubines do tasks normally reserved for maids and servants, constantly finding ways to torment and oppress them.

Those who dared to cause trouble would face severe punishment.

Lu Lingyun was truly kind and lenient towards her concubines.

She rarely set strict rules for them, never skimped on their allowances, and often gave them gifts.

There was no need to compare her with other mistresses; just comparing her to her mother-in-law, Lady Qin, Lu Lingyun's benevolence was evident.

The concubines of the old Lord Marquis never had it as good as Qiu Ling and Xing Dairong.

How could Qiu Ling not know she had a good mistress? Cheng Yunshuo punished her, and when Lu Lingyun returned, she took up for her. How could she resent Lu Lingyun?

But, but...

"Enough, the Prince Consort was indeed biased this time," Lu Lingyun spoke, revealing Qiu Ling's grievance.

She spent half of her two-week confinement feeling wronged by Cheng Yunshuo's bias. She had given her whole heart to Cheng Yunshuo, with over a decade of affection, only to be treated so poorly. She was a servant, true, but did Cheng Yunshuo really have no feelings for her!

"Madam," Qiu Ling sobbed, "I've served the Prince Consort for over a decade, yet I'm not even as valued as a woman who betrayed him. I might as well be dead!"

"Alright, alright," Lu Lingyun saw her crying uncontrollably and quickly asked her to sit down, "We all know you've been wronged. I've already dealt with Xing Dairong. In the future, don't argue with her. If anything happens, come to me."

Qiu Ling continued crying, "I won't argue with her anymore. It's pointless. She has a child and the Prince Consort's favor. She is stronger than me. Let her do what she wants; I won't say a word, no matter how angry I am."

She looked utterly defeated.

Lu Lingyun sighed, "I'll ask the Prince Consort to visit you. You don't have to feel so wronged."

Qiu Ling shook her head while sobbing, looking at her with tearful eyes, "No, Madam. I've seen through everything. Relying on the Prince Consort is useless. I don't want to rely on him anymore. From now on, I will follow you, serve you for life, and grow old with you!"

Lu Lingyun: "..."

Qiu Ling had seen through Cheng Yunshuo. What use were men or love compared to the Madam!

Rather than fighting with Xing Dairong for a little bit of favor, it was better to stay with Lu Lingyun.

Following Lu Lingyun meant no more suffering or sadness, having food and clothes, living a peaceful life—better than any man!

Seeing Qiu Ling's newfound clarity, Lu Lingyun felt this wasn't the outcome she wanted.

Just then, the storeroom brought up new jewelry for the year. Lu Lingyun asked Qiu Ling to pick first, giving her an extra piece beyond what she promised, and another from her own allowance.

"This fringed jade and gold hairpin is quite nice. Take this one too, don't be upset."

Seeing the expensive hairpin, usually reserved for the mistress, being given to her, Qiu Ling felt her decision was right.

What good were men? Had Cheng Yunshuo ever given her such a fine hairpin?

No!

She wouldn't rely on Cheng Yunshuo anymore, wouldn't fight for his favor. She would follow Lu Lingyun.

"Thank you, Madam. From now on, I'll follow you. Whatever you say goes! I won't listen to the Prince Consort!"

Lu Lingyun: "..."

She didn't want to compete with Cheng Yunshuo for a concubine.

She just wanted Qiu Ling to be obedient, not so loyal.

After leaving Lu Lingyun's place, Qiu Ling ran into Xing Dairong again on her way back.

This time, she remembered Lu Lingyun's advice and didn't argue with her at all.

Xing Dairong hadn't had an easy time either, having been disciplined by Lu Lingyun. However, her relationship with Cheng Yunshuo had improved. She had planned to mock Qiu Ling, but didn't even get a glance from her.

Qiu Ling walked away directly.

Xing Dairong watched her coldly retreating back, "Hmph, being submissive is right!"

Let's see how she fights with me now.

Xing Dairong also came to see Lu Lingyun.

In the past half-month, she had learned some basic etiquette. Xing Dairong knew that in the Marquis's residence, it was best to be humble before Lu Lingyun.

"How is your pregnancy, Aunt Xing?"

"Tremendous." Xing Dairong shivered slightly. "No more medicine then."

"Alright, since your pregnancy is stable, let's hold off on the medicine for now."

"Thank you, Young Mistress."

Lu Lingyun glanced at her belly. "Sit down."

"Alright." Xing Dairong sat beside her, feeling that the baby in her belly was indeed a precious burden. At least with the child, Lu Lingyun wouldn't do anything to her.

Thinking this, she felt a bit more confident.

"These are the new pieces of jewelry from the storeroom this year. Choose one."

Lu Lingyun wasn't being partial; she gave what was due to Xing Dairong.

Of course, she and Qiu Ling had already picked through them, leaving behind only the simpler and less desirable pieces.

Even so, Xing Dairong's eyes still lit up at the sight of these items.

Having been in this era for so long, she gradually realized that money was eternal—she should grab as much as she could!

Thinking about it, she should have agreed to become a concubine earlier—the monthly stipend and allowances were all rightfully hers!

"Young Mistress, can I take an extra piece?" Xing Dairong picked through the items, finding several she couldn't bear to part with.

Hearing this, Lu Lingyun raised an eyebrow.

Looking at Xing Dairong now, she was vastly different from when they first met.

Back then, she was sitting with Qiu Kui, eating pastries and talking about equality and true love. Now, she understood the allure of worldly wealth.

"Why?" Lu Lingyun didn't directly agree or refuse, but asked instead.

Xing Dairong's eyes flickered as she touched her belly. "I'm pregnant."

Lu Lingyun smiled faintly. "When you first became pregnant, I gave you a box of jewels. You've done nothing else noteworthy, so there's no precedent for this."

Chapter 59 Cheng Yunshuo's Promotion

Xing Dairong's face immediately fell at Lu Lingyun's words, almost saying the words "petty" out loud.

Seeing this, Lu Lingyun said calmly, "However, if the Prince were to ask for an increase in the monthly allowances for the concubines, that wouldn't be a problem."

Upon hearing Lu Lingyun's words, Xing Dairong instantly perked up. "I understand."

She looked at the two pieces of jewelry she couldn't bear to part with, selecting for a while before saying, "I'll take this one first."

By saying "first," she implied she would take the other piece later.

After leaving Lu Lingyun, Xing Dairong returned to her courtyard with a radiant smile.

Lu Lingyun watched and gently curled the corners of her lips.

"Xia Mei, has your brother finished his task?"

"It's done." Xia Mei stepped forward. "My brother said he delivered the clues about the stolen exam questions early this morning on the Prince's usual route."

"Were they not discovered?"

"Of course not. The Prince must have already caught the culprits by now."

Lu Lingyun put down her teacup and calmly glanced at the sky above.

Cheng Yunshuo had told her some time ago that he wanted a promotion. For Lu Lingyun, this was as simple as it could be; in her previous life, she had helped Li Wenxun throughout his entire career.

She knew exactly what to do, when to do it, and whom to approach. She remembered that around this time in her past life, several household slaves had stolen the exam questions for the next year's Spring Imperial Exams, but they were quickly discovered by the authorities, leading to a change in the exam questions.

This achievement would be perfect for Cheng Yunshuo.

That evening, Cheng Yunshuo returned home full of energy.

As soon as he came back, he sought out Lu Lingyun.

"Lingyun, I got a promotion!"

"Oh?" Lu Lingyun feigned surprise. "How did the Prince manage it?"

"Today, we cracked a case involving leaked exam questions. It was quite a coincidence—I saw some suspicious individuals on my way to work. When they saw me, they dropped their things and ran. I sensed something was wrong and chased after them. Guess what?"

"What happened?" Lu Lingyun asked, pretending to be curious.

"Those people turned out to be household slaves of the chief examiner for next year's Spring Imperial Exams. They were selling the exam questions, and I caught them red-handed!" Cheng Yunshuo looked proud and elated, feeling accomplished after solving such a significant case.

He never expected that at this crucial moment, he would coincidentally make such a significant contribution. The Prefectural Commandant, upon learning of his success in cracking such a major case, immediately promoted him and requested commendation.

Thus, he smoothly received a promotion.

Seeing Cheng Yunshuo's simple happiness, she smiled and praised him. "The Prince is truly impressive. I must tell Father and Mother about this."

Hearing that she would inform Lady Qin and the old Marquis, Cheng Yunshuo's joy overflowed even more. He had been a wastrel for so long, and this was the first time he had accomplished something significant, allowing him to stand tall before Lady Qin and the old Marquis. He reined in his pride. "You arrange it. Tomorrow, I'll invite my colleagues over for dinner. Please help with the preparations."

"Sure, no problem."

Lu Lingyun found Cheng Yunshuo to be a very simple and straightforward person.

Unlike Li Wenxun, who had abundant ambition and always aimed to climb higher, Cheng Yunshuo had a more moderate nature. He had a bit of rebelliousness and desired to achieve something to bring honor to his family and make his parents proud, but he didn't have such grand ambitions. If opportunities arose, he took them; if not, he let them go. He was a content and simple person.

He also had his biases, hesitating in matters of emotion, easily swayed, and wanting to take responsibility for everyone, believing everyone to be good. In summary, he was just an ordinary, simple, and happy person without any ulterior motives.

Apart from his youthful recklessness in pursuing Xing Dairong, which led him to extremes, he hadn't done anything outrageous.

However, Lu Lingyun felt that such an ordinary person was more genuine and interesting.

After sharing his joy of promotion with Lu Lingyun, Cheng Yunshuo still brimming with excitement, headed straight to Xing Dairong's courtyard to share the news with her.

"Dairong."

"Yunshuo, you're back!" Xing Dairong rushed forward upon seeing him. She had waited all day for him to return, eager to discuss the matter of allowances.

"I actually had something to tell you."

"I have something to tell you too!" Cheng Yunshuo's joy remained evident. "I got a promotion!"

"A promotion?"

Xing Dairong's eyes widened in excitement. "Aren't you already the Prince? What kind of promotion? Did you become a Lord Marquis?"

Her eyes grew wider with each word, filled with excitement.

If Cheng Yunshuo became a Lord Marquis, she would be his concubine, and her allowance would surely increase!

"What nonsense. I got a promotion within the Imperial Guards." Cheng Yunshuo's joy was dampened by half due to her misunderstanding. "Our marquisate title can only be inherited. With my father gone, I can succeed as the Marquis. However, I am the last generation to inherit; the next generation will have a reduced title."

Cheng Yunshuo was the last heir to inherit the Ningyang Marquis title. His descendants would be earls, and the marquisate title would end with him.

"Ah!" Xing Dairong's face immediately fell. "What about our children? They won't be able to become Lord Marquises?"

Cheng Yunshuo frowned. "The next generation will hold the title of Earl, followed by Light Chariot Commander, and then there will be no further inheritance."

"What about your position in the Imperial Guards?"

"I am now the Chief Inspector of the Imperial Guards, equivalent to a Light Chariot Commander."

Xing Dairong listened and said, "Isn't that worse than being a Prince?"

Cheng Yunshuo became unhappy.

Such a joyful promotion for him means nothing to Xing Dairong.

Indeed, he is now only the Chief Inspector of the Imperial Guards, a position far lower than that of a hereditary marquis, but this is a position he earned himself, not inherited.

"Then do you have any hope of being promoted to a marquis in the future? To leave something for our children to inherit."

"What nonsense are you spouting! A marquis title requires genuine merit and achievements. As an Imperial Guard, the highest I can achieve is becoming a personal guard to the emperor, or at most, be assigned as a second or third-rank official elsewhere. It cannot compare to a marquis title, and besides, I will never surpass my ancestors' accomplishments."

Cheng Yunshuo is not delusional. His family's ancestors earned their marquis titles through real battles on the battlefield. With his abilities, serving as an Imperial Guard in the Imperial City and rising to the rank of Chief Inspector is already quite an achievement.

What is Xing Dairong thinking!

Hearing such lack of ambition from him, "Can't you strive harder! Work hard and achieve great things like your ancestors did!"

Cheng Yunshuo was completely speechless, "What do you want from me this time?"

Xing Dairong, remembering the real reason she came, said, "I want you to increase my allowance. I am just a concubine, so everything is given in such small amounts. This year, I only received one piece of jewelry, which is not enough..."

Listening to her, Cheng Yunshuo felt waves of frustration building up inside him. He stared at Xing Dairong, who kept nagging him for more.

Is this really the person he once loved so deeply?

Chapter 60: The Liu Family's Visit

Xing Dairong kept pulling Cheng Yunshuo and talking nonstop. One moment she wanted more jewelry as part of her allowance, the next she asked him to make more winter clothes for her. She also complained that since she had become his concubine, she had suffered in terms of status and needed material compensation.

Before she could finish, Cheng Yunshuo turned around and walked straight out.

"Where are you going!"

"Back to sleep."

"You should spend more time with me and the child." Xing Dairong stomped her feet.

After leaving Xing Dairong, Cheng Yunshuo passed by the Autumn Fragrance Courtyard on his way back to Yaoguang Pavilion. He thought about Qiu Ling, whom he hadn't seen in a long time.

"How is Qiu Ling doing?"

"Aunt Qiu has been allowed to move freely again," Qingfeng said at this moment. "If you have time, Your Highness, you should visit Aunt Qiu. You can share the good news with her too."

Lu Lingyun had suggested to Cheng Yunshuo that he should visit Qiu Ling more often. So, Qingfeng took the opportunity to remind him.

Hearing this, Cheng Yunshuo paused for a moment, then headed towards the Autumn Fragrance Courtyard.

He found Qiu Ling inside, embroidering knee pads.

The candlelight flickered as Qiu Ling meticulously embroidered thick rabbit fur knee pads. For a moment, Cheng Yunshuo was reminded of the past.

Every year, Qiu Ling would make knee pads for him, and all his personal items were embroidered by her own hands.

Thinking about this, he felt a twinge of guilt. Perhaps it was too harsh to confine Qiu Ling to her quarters for half a month last time.

"Sister Qiu Ling..."

Cheng Yunshuo spoke up.

Qiu Ling heard his voice and glanced towards the door. Seeing Cheng Yunshuo, there was no trace of the warmth or eagerness she used to show. She didn't even bother to put away her embroidery tools. "Why doesn't Your Highness go keep Aunt Xing company? What brings you here?"

"Qiu Ling, I came to see how you are."

"I've seen you now. Please go back, Your Highness."

Qiu Ling continued working on the knee pads, outright rejecting him.

Cheng Yunshuo: "..."

Qiu Ling actually wanted him to leave.

Was this still his Sister Qiu Ling?

Seeing Qiu Ling embroidering the knee pads, Cheng Yunshuo found an excuse to sit down. "My knee pads just broke. These new ones you're making look very useful."

Qiu Ling looked up at him. "Your Highness must have misunderstood. These are for Madam."

Cheng Yunshuo: "..."

"If you need knee pads, ask Aunt Xing. She is your favorite; anything she makes, you will surely like."

Cheng Yunshuo: "..."

This really wasn't his Sister Qiu Ling anymore.

Qiu Ling chased Cheng Yunshuo out from her place.

She had realized that no man was worth her effort.

No matter how much she did for him, it would never match the allure of another woman's glance.

Whenever he faced rejection from other women, he would think of her. Such a man was not worth her time!

From now on, she would live for herself. Winning Lu Lingyun's favor meant she could still enjoy a comfortable life!

After chasing Cheng Yunshuo away, Qiu Ling continued sewing the knee pads for Lu Lingyun.

The next day, Lu Lingyun received notice from her in-laws.

The Qin family and the old Lord Marquis would return to the marquisate from their residence by mid-month.

Lu Lingyun immediately got busy.

Apart from the year-end purchases, winter preparations, personnel arrangements, and reviewing the annual accounts, she also had to tidy up the courtyard and complete all tasks before presenting them to Lady Qin.

Fortunately, both concubines in the household had settled down.

Qiu Ling no longer cared about Cheng Yunshuo and Xing Dairong, while Xing Dairong spent her days pestering Cheng Yunshuo for favors. Thus, the household remained peaceful.

Lu Lingyun had enough time to manage the household affairs and organize a grand promotion celebration for Cheng Yunshuo, while also finding time to handle her shop's matters.

"Madam, Sister Zhiran says many people have been asking about charcoal. Should we start selling it now?" Xia Mei relayed the message from the general store.

"Not yet. Wait until the twelfth month."

Charcoal was already being used, priced at two taels per cart.

After the twelfth month, the price would soar to four or five taels per cart.

"Yes."

The sound of crackling charcoal filled Lu Lingyun's room.

Now that the marquisate had started comprehensive heating, as the main lady of the house, she had the most abundant supply of charcoal—three full basins of smokeless charcoal, warming the room to a cozy temperature.

It was rare for Lu Lingyun to experience such a comfortable winter. Life in a wealthy and influential household was indeed more pleasant.

After Xia Mei left, Chunhe entered the room again, "Young Lady, your family has sent a letter."

"What is it?"

"Your mother mentioned she wants to come visit you."

Liu's wife is coming?

The last time Liu's wife fell ill, Lu Lingyun went back to see her, but it wasn't a serious matter; it was merely a social visit to maintain their relationship.

Not even a month has passed, and she wants to visit again. It seems that Liu's wife still harbors some hidden intentions, trying to become familiar with her.

"Sure, if Mother wishes to come, I'll send a carriage to pick her up."

"Yes."

That afternoon, Liu's wife arrived at Ningyang Marquisate with two concubines and several cousins by carriage.

As soon as they entered Lu Lingyun's room, everyone's eyes lit up.

The first thing they noticed was the warmth inside. It hadn't snowed yet, and smaller officials' homes didn't use charcoal fire.

Even in the Lu family, only Liu's wife and Lu's father's rooms had one basin of charcoal fire, while the concubines and other children born of lesser status had none.

Lu Lingyun's room had three full basins of smokeless charcoal!

"Sister Lingyun, it's so warm here."

One of Liu's wife's nieces spoke up.

Lu Lingyun recognized her; her name was Liu Qingping, and her mother was the aunt who had given her wedding gifts.

"Qingping is here too."

"Sister Lingyun, you're truly extraordinary now!" Liu Qingping approached Lu Lingyun with a smile, looking her up and down. Seeing Lu Lingyun adorned in gold and silver, with clothes embroidered with gold thread, she touched her coat and then her golden pendant, "These must be very expensive!"

Liu Qingping's father was just a seventh-rank examiner in the Hanlin Academy, the lowest position handling textual corrections.

Such a scholar-official had no real power, especially being at the bottom doing textual work, so there was little money at home.

Liu Qingping wore a silk-lined robe for early winter, with only the front panels made of silk. The most valuable item she had was a gilded hairpin, which was still inferior to what Aunt Qiu from Lu Lingyun's household wore.

"Qingping, your sister is now the lady of the marquisate, of course she's different," Liu's wife said with a smile, her eyes filled with admiration, envy, and a well-hidden jealousy and resentment.

Originally, all these luxuries should have belonged to her own daughter, and this prosperous life in the marquisate should have been lived by Lu Hanyi.

How could Lu Lingyun enjoy it instead!

Her foolish daughter insisted on marrying that poor boy surnamed Li. She saw no potential in Li Wenxun, only that Lu Lingyun's life in the Li family was getting worse day by day.

She came here for Lu Hanyi's sake!