Chapter 109 Matchmaking
Lu Lingyun returned with Wang Qiluo.
Lu Lingyun didn't rush back to her own marquisate.
She first went to Wang Qiluo's house.
Lu Hanyi's trivial matters weren't worth her worry; besides, her own life was getting better and better, which kept her preoccupied.
She truly didn't take Lu Hanyi seriously.
It was Wang Qiluo who mattered.
Having promised to help her catch a husband right after the exams, she now needed to start planning for it.
She accompanied Wang Qiluo back to her home and met Jiang Shi.
Jiang Shi was chatting leisurely in the courtyard with a few friends.
When they saw Wang Qiluo and Lu Lingyun return, they all paused.
"Qiluo is back."
"Oh, who is this beside you?"
Several middle-aged women, looking like ladies of high status, focused their attention on Lu Lingyun.
Their eyes were filled with admiration.
Lu Lingyun wasn't the type of stunning beauty, but her features were exceptionally dignified and graceful. Having been married into the marquisate for nearly a year, the luxurious life had enhanced her noble demeanor even more.
Dressed in expensive silk and adorned with exquisite jewelry on her hair, neck, and wrists, every piece she wore was remarkable.
And most of these items were gifts from Qin Shi.
Qin Shi's dowry came from the Duke of Qin's household, where she was the only daughter doted upon by her entire family. When she married, she brought along the finest treasures.
Even a few pieces given to Lu Lingyun were enough to astonish others.
Moreover, Jiang Shi and her circle of noblewomen were mostly from families of officials ranked fourth or fifth class, without connections to the grand aristocratic houses.
Seeing Lu Lingyun's elegant demeanor, their eyes and hearts lit up.
"This must be Lu Lingyun from the Lu family!" Jiang Shi smiled upon seeing Lu Lingyun.
"She's the one who married into the marquisate!"
"So, it's the consort of the marquisate's heir!"
"Madam Prince, please sit, please sit."
The Jiang sisters repeatedly invited Lu Lingyun to take a seat.
Lu Lingyun greeted everyone one by one.
"Lingyun has married so well!"
"Who could disagree? The marquisate is a distinguished family."
"If only our Qiluo could also marry into nobility!"
One of the ladies teased, and Wang Qiluo immediately put on a stern face. "I won't marry into nobility!"
"You little girl, look at your sister—hasn't she married into nobility well?"
"Their life of luxury and fine food is much better than ours!"
"It's so enviable!"
The wealthy ladies laughed.
Wang Qiluo's face grew even sterner. "I won't marry."
"A woman must marry. Qiluo, if you don't want to marry into nobility, how about marrying my son? My son is very obedient and will listen to you!"
Another lady joked.
Wang Qiluo's temper flared up instantly. "I won't marry, I won't marry anyone!"
Seeing her daughter about to get angry, Lady Jiang quickly said, "Alright, alright, Aunties and cousins were just joking with you."
"I won't marry, I won't marry the person you choose for me!"
Her words made the ladies present feel a bit awkward, as the Wang family had only one precious daughter, Wang Qiluo, who was Lady Jiang's only child. Both Lady Jiang and General Wang doted on her, and everyone gave her face, accommodating her mood swings.
One by one, they got up, smiling and apologizing to her, then took their leave.
Lady Jiang did not insist they stay, smilingly agreeing with her friends and saying she would invite them to watch a play another day. She asked the maids to see them out.
After everyone left, only Lu Lingyun remained. Lady Jiang then turned serious and said to Wang Qiluo, "Qiluo, you're not a child anymore; you can't keep throwing tantrums."
"I won't marry! That Aunt Jin's son is so fat! You've seen him. Every time he sees me, he shouts my name loudly. I wish I could find a hole to hide in."
Most of the friends of the Wang family came from military backgrounds, and their families were full of military officials. Their children were mostly burly and rarely refined.
Lu Lingyun couldn't help but chuckle at Wang Qiluo's words.
"Lingyun, you're laughing too. You've seen that fat man from the Jin family. Whenever I see him, I pretend not to know him, but he always yells so loudly that everyone in the courtyard looks over. How can someone be so crude!"
Wang Qiluo felt dizzy thinking about the marriage proposals those aunts had mentioned earlier. She would rather die on the spot than marry that fat man.
"You're not getting any younger. You reject this one and that one; do you think you can reach the heavens?" Jiang Shi couldn't help but express her dissatisfaction.
Last year, she had specifically looked for someone who wasn't from a military background—the younger minister of the Supreme Court, Luo Heng. She thought it would be a good match, fitting her daughter's desire to avoid marrying a soldier. But Luo Heng turned out to have such a terrible character.
After rejecting the Luo family, they found it difficult to find another suitable match.
Since ancient times, scholars and soldiers have rarely seen eye to eye. Scholar-officials seldom seek marriages with military families, and military officers struggle to find matches among scholar-officials.
This made it challenging for Jiang Shi to find a satisfactory match for her daughter.
At this moment, Lu Lingyun, who was sipping tea and eating pastries, said, "Aunt, I'd like to propose a match for Qiluo."
Lu Lingyun's words immediately drew the attention of both Jiang Shi and Wang Qiluo.
Wang Qiluo blushed instantly.
She had hoped Lu Lingyun would help her, but she didn't expect her to be so direct!
If not direct, what else could it be?
Lu Lingyun had absolute confidence in Liu Shuhui's character and noticed Wang Qiluo's feelings. So, she boldly took the initiative to propose the match.
"Lingyun, which young master?" Jiang Shi perked up immediately.
If Lu Lingyun dared to suggest a match, it must be reliable.
"This year's Jinshi graduate." Lu Lingyun smiled lightly, and Wang Qiluo stood up and ran out.
Seeing her daughter's reaction, Jiang Shi was momentarily stunned, but then everything became clear in her mind. "That silly girl must have already been seeing someone!"
"There's nothing like that," Lu Lingyun pulled Jiang Shi back down. "Qiluo has just met him; they know each other."
"Then..."
"Don't you trust me, Godmother?" Lu Lingyun smiled at her.
Jiang Shi no longer had any doubts. She held onto Lu Lingyun and asked eagerly, "Which young master? What is his family background? What is his character like?"
Lu Lingyun told her everything she knew.
Including Liu Shuhui's humble family background, his lack of influential connections, and his elderly mother.
After hearing about the family background, Jiang Shi pondered for a while but wasn't too concerned. "His family being poor isn't a big issue; what matters most is his character."
Jiang Shi had only one daughter. If they could take in a son-in-law, it would be ideal.
Liu Shuhui's family might be poor, but with their support, her daughter would surely live comfortably. It would be even better if he could stay in the capital as an official.
So, the family background wasn't too important to her.
"As for Liu Shuhui, I don't care much about his background, but his character is impeccable. He is a person of excellent virtue," Lu Lingyun stated frankly.
Chapter 110: Jiang's Inspection of Liu Shuhui
Hearing Lu Lingyun say this, Lady Jiang immediately became very interested.
If Lu Lingyun dared to speak like this, she must not be an ordinary person.
"Tomorrow, take me to have a good look at that scholar Liu."
The next day.
The streets were bustling and filled with joy after the announcement of the results.
Especially those taverns and inns where the candidates gathered, people came and went in waves.
There were those who were trying to recruit, those who were sizing each other up, congratulating each other, and inquiring about each other, coming and going continuously.
Those in office were divided into factions.
For civil officials, these factions were often straightforward and simple, based on their hometowns or regions.
For example, there were the Zhe Party, Min Faction, Gan Faction, and so on.
Of course, there was also the distinction between the pure stream and the turbid stream.
The pure stream consisted of those from noble backgrounds, from great families and powerful clans, while the turbid stream comprised those from humble origins, who had no support and relied solely on themselves to rise up.
After major exams like the Spring Examination, those who passed would become officials, making it the best time for various factions to recruit new members and strengthen their ranks.
Those who failed the exam left quietly, heads hung low, while those who stayed in the Imperial City were invited to drink and chat by one wealthy household or another.
Just like the top candidate of yesterday's metropolitan examination, Tong Zhengjian, who was now the hottest figure, being courted by many, strutting around with authority wherever he went.
At this moment, at Zhaoji Inn.
Many of the candidates staying here had passed, and most of them would move out today, as many people were waiting to welcome them to better residences.
"Mr. Wang, Mr. Zhang, our master has prepared wine and dishes at his residence, awaiting your arrival for a conversation."
Two rosy-faced scholars were escorted out by a group of servants, who carried a pile of luggage. As they descended the stairs, they encountered a young man with patches on his sleeves.
"Liu, you just got back!" the scholar surnamed Wang said.
"Hmm." The young man with the patched sleeves rubbed his shoulder, brushing off the dust.
Scholar Zhang immediately frowned, "You didn't go back to the dock to carry loads again, did you!"
"How else would I earn today's meal money?" Liu Shuhui glanced at them and said directly.
His family was not well-off, and his funds were nearly depleted after arriving in the Imperial City, where living expenses were high. During his stay, he had been living in a shared room.
These two scholars, Wang and Zhang, were his roommates.
When everyone was struggling financially, he had once taken them to do odd jobs to earn some meal money, and they had become quite familiar.
"You've passed the exam, why are you still doing such things!" Scholar Wang frowned, reaching out to pull Liu Shuhui, "Why don't you come with us to Mr. Cui's residence? He invited us to stay at his place, and it wouldn't be a problem to bring you along."
"Yes, come with us, why suffer through such hard labor!" Scholar Zhang echoed.
They both reached out to grab Liu Shuhui, but he pushed their hands away, looking at them and firmly refusing, "I won't go, please step aside."
"Hey, what a stubborn temper! I'm only offering you a chance because we've been roommates, pulling you up to a better life!"
Liu Shuhui glanced at Scholar Wang indifferently, "Being roommates, I'll give you a piece of advice: when you eat someone's food, you owe them; when you take someone's hand, you're indebted. There's always a price to pay for a better life."
"You!"
"Alright, alright, if he doesn't know what's good for him, let it be." Scholar Zhang pulled Scholar Wang away, "Let's go."
"Go, go, let's go! We won't bother with him anymore!"
The two scholars led the group away, muttering curses. Liu Shuhui did not turn his head or respond, maintaining his usual expression as he returned to his room.
He was not ignorant of human relations; he understood the world but chose not to conform to it.
Liu Shuhui knew that factions could be a ladder to success, but also a death sentence.
He could quickly form alliances based on regional ties and gain favor, but if something went wrong with their faction, everyone would suffer the consequences.
In the path of officialdom, there were those who were skilled at maneuvering and navigating all sides, and there were those who took steady, solid steps forward.
He did not seek short-term gains or shortcuts; he wanted to do things his way, step by step.
Even if the process was fraught with difficulties, every step he took would be solid, not easily blown over by the wind.
In the upstairs private room, two women watched this scene.
A young woman, about seventeen or eighteen, with her hair styled in a married woman's bun, frowned, "Auntie, Liu Shuhui has a rather poor temper, as stubborn as a wooden log, and doesn't know how to adapt."
"But indeed, as you said, he has upright character and great integrity," the middle-aged noblewoman sitting opposite her observed closely.
Lady Jiang's family had originally been officials in the Imperial City, but later fell into decline due to her father's involvement in factional politics. He sought connections everywhere to climb higher, even arranging a prestigious marriage for her during his peak. Unfortunately, before he could achieve his goals, he was implicated in an investigation, and the entire family suffered. The family to which she was betrothed unceremoniously broke off the engagement, causing Lady Jiang immense humiliation, almost leading her to sever ties with her family.
Fortunately, at this time, Wang Qiluo's father achieved military honors. General Wang was a distant relative, and after his father died in battle, his mother brought him to live in the Jiang household, where he was treated as a lower status. She and General Wang had grown up together, sharing a deep bond.
During her hardest times, the poor boy whom the Jiang family always looked down upon said he would marry her, and that's what kept her alive.
Later, as the Jiang family fell further into decline and was demoted to a minor official in a remote place, Wang Qiluo's father steadily rose to become a fourth-rank general, granting her a life of honor and prosperity.
Her story with Wang Qiluo's father was one of a wealthy young lady and a poor boy. Because of this, she didn't share the mindset of those mothers who only cared about lineage and were determined to marry their daughters into high-ranking families.
She valued character above all else.
As long as a person had good character and was reliable, her daughter's future would surely be secure.
Lu Lingyun looked at the approving expression on the Jiang family matriarch's face and felt a twinge of understanding.
No wonder Wang Qiluo could fancy him; it seemed his mother had similar tastes.
She then pulled the Jiang family matriarch aside and spoke at length about Liu Shuhui, especially about his temper, so that she could understand his worst traits and the things most difficult to accept.
The Jiang family matriarch listened to everything, but instead of being put off, she became even more satisfied with Liu Shuhui.
This young man seemed more and more like her own husband the more she heard.
He appeared gentle, yet both had a strong sense of integrity and were equally stubborn.
As long as such people had a righteous heart, they wouldn't go astray.
As they talked, night fell.
"I'll speak to Qiluo's father about this man."
"Mm, General Wang should also evaluate him."
Chapter 111: Searching the House
Lu Lingyun had made an agreement with Lady Jiang.
Later, she would come to inspect Liu Shuhui again with General Wang.
For now, Wang Qiluo's matter was put aside, and as it was getting late, Lu Lingyun returned to her residence in the carriage.
Just as she entered the inner courtyard, she heard a commotion.
"Don't accuse me falsely here. If you lost something, go find it yourself. Accusing me of stealing and throwing accusations at me, do you think I'm easy to bully!" A strange female voice echoed through the yard.
The girl was around sixteen or seventeen, dressed in thin and bright clothing, with a loosely tied hairstyle and a strand of hair hanging over her forehead. Every frown and smile carried a flirtatious charm.
Standing opposite her was a fresh and delicate young girl. The girl was fair and clear-skinned, and when seen alone, she was a graceful beauty. However, compared to the bright and alluring woman, she seemed frail.
At that moment, the young girl's eyes were brimming with tears of grievance. "The box was found in your room, and yet you still deny it!"
"Go to hell with your lies! Who knows who left that broken box in my room? I'd say you're trying to frame me! You tofu-selling little wretch, you're so good at playing the victim, squeezing out a few tears to act here, just waiting for some man to come and comfort you. I've seen this act too many times!"
The alluring woman scolded, hands on her hips.
Lu Lingyun listened for a few moments. "Who is that?"
"The young lady, that's Miss Ling Long whom the Young Master brought back."
So, that was Ling Long.
Lu Lingyun stopped in her tracks. Huang Yue, standing opposite Ling Long, immediately saw her. Her watery eyes darted, and she ran towards Lu Lingyun. "Young Lady! You're finally back! Please do justice for me!"
The woman opposite Huang Yue turned at the sound of Huang Yue's voice and saw Lu Lingyun, dressed in elegant and wealthy attire.
She was like a richly blooming peony, needing no comparison to stand out among other women.
This was the current mistress of the Hou Mansion.
When Ling Long saw Lu Lingyun, a hint of surprise flashed in her coquettish eyes.
Huang Yue ran to Lu Lingyun and knelt before her with a thud. "Young Lady!"
"You cry for what? Always playing the victim!" Ling Long said angrily, stepping forward.
"Ridiculous! In front of the Young Lady, it's not your place to speak!" Nanny Wan scolded sternly.
Ling Long, hearing the harsh rebuke, immediately quieted down, tucking her tail and behaving cautiously.
Seeing Ling Long's suppressed frustration, a sense of satisfaction and triumph flashed in Huang Yue's eyes.
Hmph, little one.
No matter how wild she acts in front of others, she has to behave in front of Lu Lingyun.
She should have used Lu Lingyun to teach this cheap woman a lesson long ago.
"Young Lady, please do justice for Little Yue!" Huang Yue's voice became even more pitiful.
Lu Lingyun looked down at the two women from a higher position, a faint smile on her lips. "What happened?"
"She stole the hairpin the Young Master gave me!"
"You're spewing nonsense!" Ling Long retorted angrily.
"Speak another word in front of the Young Lady, and you'll be disciplined!" Nanny Wan, always ready to assert authority, enjoyed reprimanding the servants. This new arrival was so undisciplined, giving her a perfect opportunity to show her power.
Ling Long's arrogance diminished, and she responded tactfully, "Young Lady, I was wrong. I was just worried about being framed by this wretched girl!"
"It's not your place to judge, Young Lady will decide."
Ling Long, reprimanded, had a face full of grievance, swallowing her words without daring to say another.
Seeing this, Huang Yue felt even more satisfied.
She would find someone to deal with her severely!
At that moment, a calm voice came, "What exactly happened? What did you lose?"
Huang Yue looked up and met Lu Lingyun's composed gaze. For a moment, a hint of guilt flashed in her eyes.
To be honest, she knew of Lu Lingyun's skills and wisdom. Lying in front of her was risky.
But...
"Reporting to the Young Lady, it's a silver hairpin the Young Master gave me. I kept it in a box, hidden under my pillow. Today, when I wanted to wear it, I couldn't find it after searching everywhere."
Ling Long tried to speak again but closed her mouth upon meeting Lu Lingyun's gaze.
Lu Lingyun continued, "Then why do you say Miss Ling Long took it?"
"I found the box in her room."
"You're lying! I've never seen that box!" Ling Long could no longer hold back.
"You really need discipline!" Nanny Wan stepped forward and slapped Ling Long.
Lu Lingyun did not stop her, turning a blind eye.
She was not a pure and kind Buddha; anyone could not shout at her.
As the mistress, she needed to set the rules.
Ling Long, who had received a solid slap, felt extremely wronged, and Huang Yue, standing to the side, felt a surge of satisfaction.
She pressed her advantage, "Madam, we can simply search to see if the item is with her."
Lu Lingyun, with her eyes half-closed, looked at Huang Yue kneeling before her. Meeting her clear, gentle eyes that sparkled with cunning, she smiled slightly, "You're right."
Hearing Lu Lingyun actually follow her suggestion, Huang Yue's heart leaped with joy.
Everything was going according to her plan; Lu Lingyun had indeed served as her pawn!
This was truly a two-pronged strategy—first, it would deal a heavy blow to Ling Long.
Secondly, because of this incident, Ling Long would surely bear a grudge against Lu Lingyun!
She had successfully stirred up conflict between the two.
Sure enough, upon hearing that she would be searched without even a chance to defend herself, Ling Long's eyes and face were filled with grievance.
These mistresses in charge, none of them are good people.
The next moment, they heard Lu Lingyun say, "But searching only Ling Long's room would be unfair."
"Huang Yue, since you lost your item, we should search your room first to see if you might have misplaced it. Someone, search Huang Yue's room first."
Huang Yue was taken aback: "!"
Before she could speak, Lu Lingyun led the way towards Yaoguang Pavilion.
Lu Lingyun's expression was calm, a faint, cold smile playing on her lips.
Ha, wanting her to be a pawn, well, she just handed over an assist.
Just right to search her room!
Seeing everyone heading towards her room, Huang Yue couldn't help but feel anxious and quickly followed.
Beside her, Ling Long narrowed her alluring eyes, covering her face as she watched Lu Lingyun's retreating back, her eyes filled with complexity.
Lu Lingyun led the group to Huang Yue's room, giving a nod to Mama Wan, who then led the others to thoroughly search the place.
Seeing her belongings being rummaged through, Huang Yue's heart tightened.
Because she remembered the incident with the red flower; Lu Lingyun hadn't pursued it further after that. Now that Qiu Ling had given birth, it seemed like the matter had truly come to an end.
So, Lu Lingyun searching her room shouldn't have any other motives... right?
Chapter 112: Huang Yue's Scheme
Wan Mama led the people to rummage through Huang Yue's room.
In no time, they found a small mill that looked like a toy among a pile of clutter.
Huang Yue was startled when she saw this item being pulled out.
"What is this?" Lu Lingyun immediately noticed it.
The small mill clearly had ground many things, with a pile of powder stuck in its crevices. Huang Yue lunged forward and clung tightly to the small mill, tears streaming down her face before she even spoke, "Young Lady, this is a little trinket my father made for me!"
"What are you so nervous about? I just want to take a look," Lu Lingyun smiled at her.
"Young Lady, this is the only keepsake my father left me!" Huang Yue hugged the small mill tightly, sobbing uncontrollably, "When I was little, my parents worked day and night grinding beans to make tofu. I wanted to help them, but my father, worried about my young age, specially made this small mill for me."
"When they used the big mill to grind beans, I would sit on the side and use this small mill to follow along. Now that my parents are gone, they left me only this thing. Young Lady, you can have anything from Little Yue, even my life, but please, not this mill."
Huang Yue's sobs were heart-wrenching, and her story touched everyone in the room, who looked at her with sympathy and pity.
After all, they were all from humble backgrounds. Even those who followed Lu Lingyun felt a pang of empathy. Who wasn't born and raised by their parents? If their families weren't poor, they wouldn't send their children out to be servants.
This made it difficult for Lu Lingyun to ask for the item to take a look. With both her parents dead, leaving her only this worthless object as a memento, even as the lady of the house, she couldn't force Huang Yue to hand it over in public.
Forcing it would show her authority and completely disregard the feelings of her subordinates.
Lu Lingyun narrowed her eyes, "Huang Yue, your filial piety is commendable."
"Thank you, Young Lady, for understanding and accommodating me." Huang Yue quickly took the opportunity to express her gratitude.
"However, I find your little trinket quite adorable. The young master is in need of some toys. I'd like to offer ten taels of silver to buy it and let him play with it for a few days. I'll return it to you afterward."
Just now, Huang Yue had set up the situation to prevent Lu Lingyun from directly demanding the item. Now, Lu Lingyun offered to buy it for ten taels of silver, specifically for the young master Cheng Bingan to play with for a few days. This was an immense favor.
Ordinary servants and maids would consider it a great honor if the young master took an interest in one of their items, let alone being paid for it.
But when Huang Yue heard Lu Lingyun's words, her brows knitted together, and her innocent face turned to one of grievance, "Young Lady, this is the only keepsake my parents left me. If it were anything else, I would gladly give it to the young master to play with. Mentioning money or even a word more would be an insult to Little Yue."
"But this small mill, I wish to keep. Moreover, it's not clean. If it dirties the young master, I would be a sinner!"
Huang Yue cried again, but this time, the people around her didn't sympathize with her. Instead, they thought she was ungrateful and disrespectful.
The mistress had shown interest in her item and was willing to pay for it, without any intention of damaging or losing it. She even promised to return it after a few days. Even if it were a keepsake, it wasn't worth being so stingy.
Crying and wailing constantly made it seem as though Lu Lingyun was bullying her.
Lu Lingyun looked at Huang Yue, who clung to the item, and feigned a loss of interest, "Fine, if you're unwilling, then forget it."
The gazes of the people around her turned to disdain.
Lu Lingyun led the group out, and as they passed Huang Yue, several maids whispered, "I've never seen anyone as stingy as you!"
"Who doesn't speak well of how Young Lady treats us servants? And she's even helping you investigate a case. Asking to borrow a toy, and you're so reluctant. You really think you're something special."
"Hold onto your broken mill! So stingy, no one will want to associate with you anymore!"
With this incident, Huang Yue offended a large group of people, both those close to Lu Lingyun and those from Yaoguang Pavilion.
Huang Yue, usually known for her purity and charm, had gained many supporters. But ultimately, people had to choose sides. Seeing her act so miserly and ungrateful quickly turned many servants against her.
Goodwill is a delicate matter, especially useful in critical moments.
For example, just now, when Huang Yue set up the situation to prevent Lu Lingyun from directly demanding the item in front of the servants, she used her goodwill.
Lu Lingyun could have ignored everyone's feelings and taken the item by force, but doing so would have put her at odds with the servants, losing a significant amount of goodwill and trust.
While Lu Lingyun, as the lady of the house, didn't necessarily care about such trivial matters, it wasn't worth losing her reputation and trust over something so insignificant.
Lu Lingyun needed to maintain her dignity and avoid always exerting her authority over the servants.
Huang Yue had counted on this and used her goodwill effectively.
But unexpectedly, Lu Lingyun countered with a few words, completely ruining Huang Yue's goodwill.
In the future, whenever Huang Yue cried and wailed, people wouldn't immediately feel sorry for her. Instead, they would remember her stinginess and ungratefulness, reducing the impact of her tears.
Seeing the group's disdain and disappointment, Huang Yue knew she had lost a lot of support. However, she had protected the hot potato in her hands!
She glanced around, seeing that everyone had left, and quickly hid the mill under her bed before hurrying to catch up.
Meanwhile, Lu Lingyun led the group to Ling Long's room.
Ling Long, having been beaten today and seeing Huang Yue's room being searched, dared not protest or say anything.
She stood obediently to one side, waiting for Lu Lingyun to search.
Lu Lingyun gave Wan Mama a nod, and the group started searching again.
Soon, as Wan Mama shook out Ling Long's bedding, there was a tinkling sound, and a silver hairpin fell out from Ling Long's bed.
Ling Long's eyes widened in shock, her pretty face turning pale with fear.
Huang Yue, who had rushed over, saw this and a glint of satisfaction flashed in her eyes.
Fortunately, although I just suffered a silent loss at Lu Lingyun's hands, the matter didn't get out of hand!
She let out an "Ouch!" and rushed forward, "This is my hairpin!"
Ling Long already knew she had been tricked, and she stammered in panic, "Madam, I swear I didn't do it!"
"Now that the evidence is clear, my hairpin was found in your bed, how can you still deny it!" Huang Yue glared at Ling Long with a fierce expression.
Her eyes gleamed with undisguised triumph.
Humph, this wretch dared to compete with her! She wouldn't let her off easily!
Chapter 113: Fobbing Off
"It really wasn't me..."
Ling Long was at her wits' end when someone else arrived at Yaoguang Pavilion.
"What's going on?"
Cheng Yunshuo, dressed in the uniform of the Imperial Guards, had just finished his duty and strode into the room where everyone was gathered.
The moment Ling Long saw him, she was about to rush over for help, but Huang Yue beat her to it, sobbing dramatically as she threw herself at him.
"Your Highness, you're finally back!"
"What's wrong with you this time?" Cheng Yunshuo looked at Huang Yue's red, swollen eyes and knew she had been crying for more than one reason. He couldn't help but ask, "Who bullied you again?"
"Someone stole the hairpin you gave me!" Huang Yue pointed angrily in Ling Long's direction.
"I, I didn't..." Ling Long, seeing everyone pointing fingers at her, became even more nervous. She fell to her knees before Cheng Yunshuo, "Your Highness, I truly didn't take it; I didn't steal it!"
"Madam has already investigated this, what else do you have to argue about!" Huang Yue glanced at Lu Lingyun standing nearby and used her name for authority.
Sure enough, as soon as Lu Lingyun was mentioned, Cheng Yunshuo didn't even bother to ask further, "How could you do such a thing!"
"Your Highness, it really wasn't me!"
"Ling Long, this is actually not a big deal. If you wanted my hairpin, you should have just asked, and I would have given it to you. Now that it has come to this, arguing won't help. If you admit it now, I won't pursue it further. I can plead your case to Madam and the Young Lady so you don't get sent back to that filthy place!"
Huang Yue spoke with conviction, pretending to be magnanimous and concerned about Ling Long being sent back to the brothel.
Cheng Yunshuo frowned upon hearing this. He said disdainfully, "Admit it, or get out!"
He didn't have deep feelings for Ling Long. He had chosen her from the brothel merely because she reminded him of someone at first sight.
But now, seeing her steal, all his annoyance with that person resurfaced.
Hearing Cheng Yunshuo's cold words, Ling Long, who was at her wit's end, heard a calm voice, "I haven't finished investigating yet."
Ling Long felt as if she had heard a heavenly sound and looked up to see Lu Lingyun speaking.
Lu Lingyun glanced at her, then turned her gaze to Huang Yue, "Huang Yue, you keep saying she stole it. What evidence do you have?"
"Madam, the item was found in her bed, what more evidence do we need?" Huang Yue raised her head and said.
"If you were a thief, would you hide the item in such an obvious place where anyone could find it?"
"Perhaps she... she was overconfident!"
"Overconfident enough to let you see the box?" Lu Lingyun smiled slightly, "Besides, there are so many people in Yaoguang Pavilion. Why did only you see the box and immediately accuse her of stealing?"
Huang Yue became tense.
Ling Long added, "That's right, Madam. My room isn't usually locked, and I go out every morning for an hour. Everyone in Yaoguang Pavilion can vouch for that. And I never go to Huang Yue's room. It's Huang Yue who rarely leaves Yaoguang Pavilion."
"You're accusing me of framing you!"
"That's quite possible!"
Huang Yue immediately burst into tears, "Your Highness! There's no justice in this world. She stole my things and now she's turning it around on me!"
Cheng Yunshuo frowned at Huang Yue's crying. He couldn't stand her tears, "Enough, it's just a hairpin. I'll give you a better one. This matter... let it be."
He couldn't judge right from wrong and didn't want to fuss over such a trivial matter.
He smoothed things over as if nothing had happened.
Lu Lingyun, hearing him speak like that, raised an eyebrow, "Fine, since Your Highness has spoken, I won't say more."
Lu Lingyun glanced at Ling Long, then turned and left with her people.
She didn't punish Ling Long, and neither did Cheng Yunshuo in the end. However, Ling Long temporarily lost favor because of this incident.
Cheng Yunshuo ordered her to reflect in her room.
Huang Yue, seeing the outcome, though not as drastic as she had hoped, still felt a sense of triumph.
Now, in Yaoguang Pavilion, she was once again the dominant figure.
None of the women in the Hou Mansion who dared to challenge her would have a good ending!
Xing Dairong was one, and now Ling Long was another!
After the matter was settled, Huang Yue couldn't help but feel smug.
Her good days were back.
Lu Lingyun left Yaoguang Pavilion and immediately asked Xia Mei, "Has your brother taken care of the matter?"
"My brother says they moved again, but he just found their new address."
"Tell him to hurry."
"Yes."
The next day.
Lu Lingyun was reviewing accounts in the courtyard when a woman approached her gate.
"Madam, Miss Ling Long from Yaoguang Pavilion is here."
Lu Lingyun didn't even look up, "Let her in."
As soon as Ling Long entered, she knelt down with a thud before Lu Lingyun, "Young Lady!"
"What is it?"
"I thank Young Lady for saving me."
Lu Lingyun, who was looking at the ledger, smiled lightly, "I didn't save you; there wasn't enough evidence."
"Young Lady's fairness and integrity have saved me." Ling Long lifted her head, her eyes full of light.
"That's enough, no need to flatter me. The matter isn't over yet." Lu Lingyun put down the ledger, "If you want to clear your name, you'll have to earn it yourself."
Lu Lingyun had served alongside Li Wenxun in various official posts for over a decade, and she deeply understood one thing.
In this world, whether big or small cases, relying solely on the magistrate to investigate would never get them solved or completed.
Even if the magistrate were as upright and fair as possible, he couldn't uncover the truth with just a glance.
Therefore, when the victim could gather evidence themselves, find the key pieces, and then inform the magistrate, the authorities were very willing to uphold justice.
But if the victim only hoped for an investigation from above, unless it was a case that must be solved, such as a murder, minor incidents often ended up forgotten.
Relying on others for help can't last forever.
To seek justice, one must strive for it oneself.
Ling Long listened to Lu Lingyun's words and thought for a moment, "I understand, Young Lady."
Seeing the intelligent Ling Long, Lu Lingyun added, "Sometimes, you don't need to dig too deep. Finding the other person's weakness is enough."
After hearing this, Ling Long fell into thought again. Soon, her eyes lit up, "I understand, Young Lady!"
As Ling Long left Lu Lingyun's courtyard, Lu Lingyun watched the departing woman and smiled gently.
Indeed, sometimes some things don't require digging too deep. This advice applied to Ling Long, but it applied even more to herself.
As the lady of the house, many things didn't need to be investigated thoroughly. She could let her pawns fight each other, exposing their weaknesses.
Huang Yue was indeed a very cunning person, and she needed to deal with her properly.
Chapter 114: Huang Yue to Be Elevated as Concubine
These past few days have been a breeze for Huang Yue.
Cheng Yunshuo has agreed to elevate her to the status of concubine.
Ling Long, who had been defeated by her, no longer dared to argue with her. The once-popular and domineering Aunt Xing could only sit idly in her courtyard.
As for Aunt Qiu, she had lost all desire to vie for favor. After giving birth and falling ill, she was now focused solely on recovering her health.
Now, she was the most favored and prominent woman in the Marquis's household, second only to the lady of the house.
Huang Yue looked at the current situation and couldn't help but feel elated.
"May the Young Lord return early."
She saw Cheng Yunshuo off at the door, behaving like a demure young lady, gentle and tender beside him. "Tonight, I'll make you some tofu."
"Good."
Cheng Yunshuo responded.
At this moment, they passed by Yuerong Pavilion.
A woman with a large belly and a haggard expression stood by the door.
Her eyes were fixed unwaveringly on Cheng Yunshuo.
The intensity of her gaze rivaled that of the stone lions guarding the entrance to the Marquis's mansion.
Even without glancing, Cheng Yunshuo could feel the burning stare.
Without even turning his head, he wrapped his arm around the delicate and charming Huang Yue, saying, "Wait for me to come back tonight, and I'll personally elevate you to the rank of concubine."
"Young Lord... there's no rush. Even without a formal title, Little Yue is willing to follow you." Huang Yue spoke softly, her voice full of tenderness and allure.
"That won't do. You're so obedient and sensible; I can't possibly treat you unfairly. You are my woman, and I will definitely be good to you."
Cheng Yunshuo's words, neither too loud nor too soft, fell into Xing Dairong's ears.
Xing Dairong's haggard eyes gradually filled with hatred, resentment, jealousy, anger, and sorrow, staring at the two of them as if she wanted to poison them on the spot.
Unfortunately, eyes cannot kill, and Xing Dairong could only watch helplessly as the two left affectionately before her.
Once Cheng Yunshuo was out of sight, a deep sense of emptiness rose in Xing Dairong's heart.
Recently, every day and night, she would wait at the gate of her courtyard for Cheng Yunshuo to finish his duties. Every day, she would see either Huang Yue or Ling Long by his side.
They would show their affection and sweetness in front of her, as if deliberately speaking those words for her to hear. She felt angry and frustrated, but she didn't dare confront Cheng Yunshuo again.
Every day, she would stand at the gate, glaring at him with venomous eyes filled with resentment.
She couldn't let go, couldn't move on. She knew that closing the door and not seeing him would bring peace, but she couldn't do it!
How could she let go?
Even if she became a bitter woman, she couldn't let go!
As Cheng Yunshuo walked away, her hand, which had been gripping the door frame, slowly relaxed, and she turned to walk back into the room.
At that moment, a soft yet mocking voice came from behind her.
"Isn't this Aunt Xing?"
Xing Dairong lifted her eyelids and saw Huang Yue standing before her, looking fresh and lively.
"What do you want?" Xing Dairong gritted her teeth, her voice hoarse.
Huang Yue's clear eyes twinkled as she looked at her, a smug smile on her face. "I just came to visit Aunt Xing. I heard that Aunt Xing used to be very powerful. The servants say that the Young Lord once doted on you so much that he would even offend the Lady, the Old Marquis, and the Young Lady for your sake. How did you end up like this now?"
Each word stabbed directly into Xing Dairong's heart.
As she listened to these words, her haggard eyes gradually turned red, and anger surged to her head. "It's none of your business, you lowly woman!"
She raised her hand and swung it hard at Huang Yue's face.
Huang Yue quickly dodged to the side, and Xing Dairong's strike missed, causing her to stagger and nearly fall.
Qiu Kui rushed out from inside. "What are you doing! How dare you bully our Aunt!"
"Which eye did you see me bullying her? It was clearly her bullying me! She hit me!" Huang Yue said, her large, watery eyes wide open. "No wonder you're master and servant, you really can twist the truth!"
"Our Aunt Xing is pregnant. You come here and talk nonsense, and you still say this isn't bullying!" Qiu Kui, being an old servant of the mansion, wasn't afraid of the newcomer Huang Yue.
Hearing this, Huang Yue laughed coldly. "If you insist on it, then let's go to Young Lady Lu and sort out the truth!"
One trick, effective everywhere.
She brought up Lu Lingyun again.
Coming from the lower ranks, she had found a sweet spot and often used this tactic.
Since Lu Lingyun wanted to be a fair lady of the house, Huang Yue seized on this point, and it never failed.
Sure enough, upon hearing that they would go to Lu Lingyun to sort out the truth, Qiu Kui backed down. She supported Xing Dairong and glared at Huang Yue. "Our Aunt is half a mistress, and you're just a bed companion. We would lose our dignity if we argued with you!"
Huang Yue sneered. "Then you'll be disappointed. The Young Lord has promised to elevate me to the rank of concubine tonight. I'll come back then."
Qiu Kui was taken aback at this, and Xing Dairong, who was beside her, clutched her hand tightly, her nails digging deep into Qiu Kui's flesh. She turned around and lunged at Huang Yue.
"I'll tear you apart! You damned man-stealing bitch! Cheng Yunshuo is mine!"
"Aunt Xing, calm down!"
Qiu Kui held her back tightly.
Huang Yue stood her ground, dodging occasionally, and continued to taunt Xing Dairong, her clear and beautiful face full of satisfaction.
When the scene was about to get out of control, she took the opportunity to call Xing Dairong a madwoman and quickly slipped away.
On her way back to Yaoguang Pavilion, she stopped by Ling Long's place.
Ling Long had her door tightly shut and did not come out.
Huang Yue didn't bother to argue with her anymore, returned to her locked room, and once inside, she couldn't stop thinking about how she would soon become a concubine. Then she remembered the thing under her bed.
After much deliberation, Huang Yue decided to get rid of it.
Taking advantage of everyone being busy with lunch, she went to the back courtyard of Yaoguang Pavilion and quietly threw the item into a well.
About half a cup of tea later, another woman appeared there.
At Lu Lingyun's courtyard.
Today, she received a letter from Li Niyue of Duke Xu's Mansion, seeking advice on managing household affairs.
Lu Lingyun carefully answered each question and offered some suggestions.
Just as she finished writing the reply, someone came to the courtyard.
"Madam, Ling Long has arrived."
"Oh, let her in."
Lu Lingyun blew on the letter, sealed it, and handed it to Shuang Hong, "Shuang Hong, deliver this to Duke Xu's Mansion."
"Yes."
As Shuang Hong left, Ling Long entered, holding something in her arms, "Madam!"
"What is it?"
"I've been watching Huang Yue for several days and finally found her weakness!" Ling Long proudly presented the item.
A small, wet millstone, freshly retrieved, appeared before Lu Lingyun.
This was the very thing Huang Yue had been protecting so fiercely that day.
"Let me see it quickly," said Lu Lingyun.
Chapter 115: Selling Huang Yue
The servants brought up the small millstone that had been soaked in water, and Lu Lingyun found a cloth to wipe off the moisture.
"Lady, that Huang Yue is definitely not right. That day, she fought tooth and nail to keep something from you, only to secretly bury it somewhere. There must be something fishy!" Ling Long said with excitement on her face.
Lu Lingyun looked at the half-dried millstone, which was still wet inside. She thought for a moment and began to turn the small mill handle. These old things often trap items in their crevices after years of use.
Sure enough, as she turned it, the water inside slowly mixed with some dark red liquid seeping out.
Seeing this, she said, "Bring Doctor Liu to me!"
As they were fetching Doctor Liu, Xia Mei hurriedly ran in from outside the courtyard.
"Lady, my brother has brought Huang Yue's family here!"
Upon hearing this, Lu Lingyun said, "Bring them in quickly!"
Soon, a middle-aged couple, both looking weathered, were led in.
They were trembling with fear as they were brought into the mansion. The moment they entered Lu Lingyun's courtyard, they knelt down in panic, "What does Lady need us for?"
"There's no need to kneel, please stand up. I just have a few questions."
Lu Lingyun had two chairs brought for the couple to sit on. Her gentle demeanor slightly eased their tension.
"Do you know Huang Yue?"
At the mention of Huang Yue, her aunt's expression changed immediately, and her uncle's eyes widened, "Lady, you know Huang Yue too?"
"Huang Yue works in my household now. I wanted to ask you about her character."
As soon as Lu Lingyun finished speaking, Huang Yue's aunt blurted out, "Lady, don't use her!"
Her uncle nudged her, but couldn't stop the anger on her face, "That girl is a born liar and troublemaker!"
"Say less, we've already split ways. Forget it, forget it."
"How can we forget! My children were all miscarried because of her, including our son!"
Lu Lingyun's eyes lit up upon hearing this.
After a while, Lu Lingyun learned how Huang Yue's uncle's family had fallen apart due to her actions.
Originally, her uncle's family had a thriving tofu business in the southern part of the city. They took in Huang Yue's family, who had no means of livelihood, to help them out. As their business grew, so did their prosperity. However, when Huang Yue's mother gave birth to her, she was injured and could no longer bear children.
Her uncle's family was eager to have a son to inherit the business. Huang Yue's parents even promised that if they had a son, he would be the heir to everyone's assets.
Initially, her uncle's family was happy about this, but then Huang Yue's aunt suffered multiple miscarriages. The last one was a fully formed male infant. It was then discovered that Huang Yue had been secretly giving her red flowers to induce miscarriage!
When her uncle's family found out, they severed ties with them and never spoke again.
"How did a little girl get red flowers?"
"In the south of our city, there's a bridge under which many grow. She picked them herself!" Huang Yue's aunt said with hatred.
At this moment, Doctor Liu arrived.
Lu Lingyun had the servants bring out the millstone and the dark red liquid collected earlier for him to examine.
Seeing the small millstone, Huang Yue's aunt shrieked, "That's the thing! She used it to grind red flower powder and mix it into my medicinal soup, causing me to lose three children!"
Doctor Liu, after carefully examining the dark red liquid, confirmed, "It is indeed the juice of red flowers."
Lu Lingyun, hearing this, slammed her hand on the table, "Bring Huang Yue to me!"
Shortly after, Huang Yue, who had just woken from her nap, appeared before Lu Lingyun.
She was still oblivious, "Why has Lady called for me?"
Could it be that the matter of her being promoted to Aunt Xing was being arranged early?
Lu Lingyun, seeing her demeanor, sneered, "Kneel down!"
Huang Yue, meeting her gaze, felt a twinge of unease. She fell to her knees, feigning innocence, "But what has Little Yue done wrong?"
Seeing her still unrepentant, Lu Lingyun slapped a paper with her seal on it, "Confess everything you've done, and I might consider selling you more leniently!"
Seeing her indenture contract, Huang Yue finally felt guilty. She rolled her eyes and hurriedly kowtowed, "Lady, Little Yue has done wrong. Was it because I offended Aunt Xing today? I'll go and apologize to her right away."
Lu Lingyun sneered, "You're still lying. Momo, bring the slave trader."
"Yes, Lady." Momo left immediately.
Huang Yue, realizing she couldn't hide anymore, reluctantly confessed, "Lady, Little Yue really did wrong. It must be about the silver hairpin. I've thought about it carefully, and it definitely wasn't Ling Long who stole it; perhaps she took it by mistake!"
"You really can make up stories! Still lying even now!" Ling Long, who had heard the entire process, angrily rebuked, "Lady has already uncovered everything about you!"
Hearing this, Huang Yue's eyes filled with panic. The slave trader arrived, and she could no longer hold back, kowtowing forcefully, "Lady, the hairpin incident was Little Yue's doing. I was foolish, please spare my life!"
It wasn't that she was stupid enough to confess directly, but the situation was dire. Lu Lingyun had dared to call the slave trader, indicating she had found evidence. As the lady of the house, with the indenture contract in hand, she had the power of life and death over her. If she didn't confess, she wouldn't be able to deceive her way out.
And the hairpin... wasn't such a big deal.
"I knew it was you who framed me!" Ling Long, hearing this, rushed forward and slapped Huang Yue twice.
"Ling Long, I'm sorry. I was foolish to think of such a thing. I'll give you two hairpins to make up for it! Please spare my life!"
"Spit! I don't want your lousy hairpins!" Ling Long slapped her twice more, venting her anger.
"Alright." Lu Lingyun spoke.
Huang Yue, thinking the matter was over, hurriedly knelt down to beg for mercy, "Young Lady, I really lost my head for a moment! Just this once, I'll never dare again. Please, Young Lady, forgive Little Yue."
Lu Lingyun sat on the stool, looking at her coldly, "Huang Yue, your greatest flaw is treating everyone like fools."
"And trying to dodge the main issue!"
Lu Lingyun raised her hand and threw the small millstone she had lost today.
As the object fell, Huang Yue's face turned completely pale. But at this moment, she also knew one thing: she must not admit to the red flower incident!
"Young Lady, what are you talking about? This is my small millstone; I was just looking for it. What's wrong with it? Does Little Master want it? If Little Master wants it, Little Yue will give it to him."
Lu Lingyun looked at her, no longer bothering to argue with such a person, "I gave you a chance, but you didn't take it. Forget it, sell her off directly."
With a wave of her hand, a slave trader stepped forward and grabbed Huang Yue to check her teeth.
Huang Yue panicked completely. She shouted desperately, using her last resort, "Young Lady, you can't do this to me! If you kill or sell me, you must give Little Yue a reason to be convinced! Selling a servant without cause—how can a noble lady act like this!"
She was trying to put Lu Lingyun in a difficult position. If Lu Lingyun really sold her today, she would ruin her reputation!
Lu Lingyun listened coldly to her desperate accusations, "Fine, if you want to die with clarity, then so be it. Come out."
As Lu Lingyun spoke, Huang Yue's uncle and aunt emerged from behind.
The moment she saw them, Huang Yue's eyes widened in shock.
She could no longer utter a single word.
Chapter 116: Chances Given
"You little venomous woman, you bring disaster wherever you go!" Aunt Huang's sister-in-law, upon seeing her, rushed forward to curse, "Not content with harming my child, you even bring disaster to the Marquis' mansion! How could your parents give birth to such a wicked girl? May heaven strike you down and send you to the eighteenth level of hell!"
Huang Yue was so frightened that she tried to back away, but her uncle, who stood nearby, couldn't stop his wife from giving her several harsh kicks.
Huang Yue's innocent face, which had once evoked pity, was now streaked with tears like pear blossoms in the rain.
This time, no one in the courtyard felt any sympathy for her.
The last time, when she had framed Lu Lingyun over the small millstone, people still pitied her. But they soon realized that the small millstone was a deadly weapon, and they had been deceived by her tears!
Such a scheming person could no longer earn anyone's sympathy.
Thinking of her usual frail appearance and the viciousness in her heart, everyone felt a chill of disgust.
Every gaze cast at her was filled with contempt.
Amidst the unsupportive gazes of everyone, Huang Yue hurriedly knelt down and begged for mercy, "Madam, please save me! I will never dare again! I beg Madam to save me!"
Lu Lingyun looked down at the prostrate Huang Yue, who was frantically kowtowing, and asked, "Do you admit it?"
"Little Yue admits it, admits it. The silver hairpin was stolen by me, and the red flower... I have no grudge against Aunt Qiu; I had no reason to harm her. Please, Madam, see through this clearly!" Huang Yue gritted her teeth.
"It's because the person you wanted to harm wasn't Qiu Ling, but Xing Dairong!"
Lu Lingyun looked down at her coldly, "You're still stubborn. You didn't know that their meals were sometimes switched, so you drugged Xing Dairong, mistakenly giving it to Qiu Ling. Your method of crime and the remaining red flower in your small millstone—how long do you plan to keep lying?"
Lu Lingyun slammed the indenture contract on the table, and Huang Yue trembled like a leaf, "Madam, Madam, I..."
"I gave you chance after chance. If you had admitted it once, I would have instructed the slave trader to sell you more leniently and find you a better place. Since you are so obstinate, you are only bringing this upon yourself!"
At this point, Huang Yue could no longer hold out, "Madam, Little Yue admits it!"
"I did it all!"
"The silver hairpin was framed, the red flower was mine. I initially intended to drug Aunt Xing, not to harm Aunt Qiu. Madam, please forgive Little Yue this one time!"
With all the evidence laid out before her, Huang Yue no longer had the audacity to lie or argue. She wept bitterly, confessing to all her crimes.
Those around her, hearing her admit to each and every wrongdoing, looked at her with disdain and revulsion.
"I thought she was a good person and spoke to her intimately!" Xiaoqin spat, "She probably listened to something and then brought disaster to our Marquis' mansion!"
When Xiaoqin invited Huang Yue over last time, she treated her like a sister on the way back!
"Knew she wasn't a good person, always crying and trying to gain sympathy from the men in the household!"
"And framing others for stealing her silver hairpin, how shameless can she be! Spit!"
"Aunt Qiu never provoked her, yet she caused her to miscarry! How wicked can her heart be!"
"Didn't hear her admit it, she originally wanted to harm Aunt Xing, but laughably gave the wrong dose and framed Aunt Xing! Causing everyone in the mansion to misunderstand Aunt Xing!"
"Bad, truly bad!"
"Since she came to our Marquis' mansion, there has been no peace, a complete household stirrer!"
Listening to the servants' indignant voices, Lu Lingyun knew it was time to clean up the atmosphere and set the household rules straight. She waved her hand, "Drag her away and sell her!"
Chances had been given to Huang Yue, once, twice, thrice, and even when they first met, she had advised her to behave.
But this girl had ambitions higher than the sky, causing trouble repeatedly, poisoning, framing, and harming others.
Lu Lingyun could tolerate the women in the inner chambers bickering and gossiping, using petty tricks, but she absolutely would not allow such a dangerous element in her courtyard.
If she didn't set things right today, she wouldn't be fit to be the lady of the Marquis' mansion.
With Lu Lingyun's command, the slave trader, eyes gleaming with interest, lifted Huang Yue, "What a fine appearance, she would fetch a good price in a brothel!"
Hearing she was to be sold to a brothel, Huang Yue cried even harder, but she had no choice.
The indenture contract was signed voluntarily by her; even if she wanted to buy herself out, she couldn't.
Huang Yue regretted it deeply. She looked around the courtyard, pleading for help, looking at her uncle and aunt, wailing for assistance.
Her uncle frowned, hesitating to speak, but was held back by his wife, who spat in disgust, feeling a sense of revenge.
For killing her three children and making her barren, this vicious and lowly creature deserved this fate!
And she, who was originally a free person, not lacking money or goods, had lowered herself to become a slave, all for the sake of wealth!
Signing her own indenture contract, she had pursued wealth with single-minded determination, and now, she was reaping what she sowed, deserving every bit of it!
As Huang Yue was about to be dragged out of the courtyard by the slave trader, a man walked in.
Seeing Cheng Yunshuo return, Huang Yue mustered all her strength to break free from the slave trader's grip and ran towards him, "My Lord, save me!"
She clung to Cheng Yunshuo's leg, crying and smearing her tears and snot all over him.
"What happened?"
Cheng Yunshuo, seeing the chaotic scene, immediately frowned.
"My Lord, Madam is going to sell me to a brothel!" Huang Yue clung tightly to Cheng Yunshuo's leg, "Please, My Lord, save me!"
Cheng Yunshuo looked at Lu Lingyun, his brows furrowed, but he didn't react with anger or accusation. He simply asked, "What did she do?"
He knew Lu Lingyun's character; if she had taken this step, there must be a reason.
Lu Lingyun's gaze turned cold as she heard this. "I have already found out that the silver hairpin in Ling Long's room and Aunt Qiu's miscarriage due to the red flower were both orchestrated by Huang Yue."
Her words were concise and to the point.
Cheng Yunshuo's brows knitted into a frown after hearing her words.
At his feet, Huang Yue pleaded desperately, "Young Master, Little Yue was only momentarily confused. I only wanted you to look at me more often. Please save my life, Young Master, for all the days I have served you faithfully. Don't send me to a brothel!"
A moment of hesitation flickered across Cheng Yunshuo's face as he looked at the weeping Huang Yue. "Lingyun, perhaps we shouldn't sell her to a brothel. We could find her a better place through a broker."
"Yunshuo, I have given her several chances, but she has not taken them," Lu Lingyun replied.
One is one, and two is two. As the lady of the house, her authority must be maintained. Minor issues could be overlooked, but today's matter was serious. If not dealt with properly, others would come to Cheng Yunshuo for favors, undermining her control over the household.
Chapter 117: Liu Shuhui Became the Top Scholar
"Yes, young master, you don't know how vicious Huang Yue is. I'm her aunt, and she made all my children miscarry with red flowers!" Aunt Huang Yue said.
Upon hearing this, Cheng Yunshuo remained silent, not uttering another word.
Lu Lingyun waved her hand, instructing the servant to drag Huang Yue away from Cheng Yunshuo's side.
After being dragged away, Cheng Yunshuo did not even glance back at Huang Yue once.
Observing Cheng Yunshuo's expression, Lu Lingyun had a pretty good idea of what was going on in his mind.
Cheng Yunshuo wasn't that concerned about Huang Yue.
This man...
"Prince, before Qiu Ling was harmed, everyone misunderstood Aunt Xing," Lu Lingyun spoke up.
Every matter should be handled as it should be.
She had promised to clear Xing Dairong's name and investigate the incident; now it was time to restore her reputation.
Cheng Yunshuo merely responded with a cold, indifferent "oh."
Lu Lingyun raised an eyebrow, momentarily unsure of what this man was thinking.
The news of Lu Lingyun dealing with Huang Yue quickly spread throughout the mansion.
Once everyone learned what Huang Yue had done, they all sighed in disdain and couldn't help but praise Lu Lingyun for handling the situation properly. Huang Yue's case served as a warning.
It was a stern reminder to any maids or servants who harbored ambitions of climbing the social ladder that nothing could escape Lu Lingyun's eyes, and those who schemed would face dire consequences!
Not even Cheng Yunshuo's pleading would change that!
After leaving Lu Lingyun's courtyard, Ling Long looked at it thoughtfully.
This lady... seemed different from the others. If she behaved herself, Lu Lingyun wouldn't mistreat her, and her actions were always reasonable and convincing.
As for Prince Cheng Yunshuo, he wasn't as reliable.
Cheng Yunshuo had dinner with Lu Lingyun and played with little Bing'an for a while.
As night deepened, he returned to his Yaoguang Pavilion.
Passing by Yuerong Pavilion, he saw a figure standing under the lamp, still as the lion statue at the gate.
Cheng Yunshuo walked straight past, taking another path.
"Cheng Yunshuo!"
At that moment, a voice shouted from the figure.
Pregnant Xing Dairong strode over, blocking his way, her eyes glaring at him fiercely.
Cheng Yunshuo didn't even look at her, his gaze wandering elsewhere, revealing impatience.
Xing Dairong didn't speak, just stared at him intensely, and the two stood there in an awkward silence.
Qingfeng, who followed behind, grew increasingly anxious.
"Aunt Xing, do you have something to say?" Qingfeng couldn't help but ask.
Xing Dairong glared at Cheng Yunshuo, speaking each word with emphasis, "I didn't give Qiu Ling the red flower; it was Huang Yue."
Lu Lingyun had investigated the matter and cleared her name.
She hadn't had the chance to tell Cheng Yunshuo before, but now she needed to.
He had misunderstood her.
He really had misunderstood and hurt her!
But when she came seeking justice and clarity, all she got from Cheng Yunshuo was, "Is there anything else?"
He didn't care.
Cheng Yunshuo simply didn't care.
Hearing his tone, Xing Dairong felt as if thousands of heavy stones were blocking her heart. The last time he took Huang Yue forcefully in front of her, it was no different.
He, he, he!
"Cheng Yunshuo, did you hear me! You misunderstood me! I never gave Qiu Ling the red flower to cause her miscarriage; it wasn't me!"
She reached out and shook Cheng Yunshuo forcefully. After three attempts, he grabbed her hand and pushed it away with disgust, "So what if it wasn't you this time?"
Cheng Yunshuo looked at her with complete indifference, showing no concern.
Whether or not Xing Dairong was responsible didn't matter.
What mattered was that in his eyes, the Xing Dairong he once deeply loved was long gone.
Her face, once lively and smiling, now bore no trace of joy. Her eyes, once filled with affection, now held only hatred and resentment. She spent her days glaring at him as if he owed her thousands of taels of silver.
Her once charming and cheerful demeanor was now entirely unappealing, making him feel annoyed just looking at her.
Until now, she has been looking at him like this; she is not the Xing Dairong he once loved.
Whatever she does, it only makes him feel disgusted.
Including coming to explain herself and demanding justice from him, it only makes him more impatient.
"Cheng Yunshuo! How can you say such things! You have misunderstood me, and instead of apologizing, you speak like this!"
Xing Dairong broke down again.
She is different from Cheng Yunshuo; he no longer cares about these things, but she does.
She must make things right.
She insists that Cheng Yunshuo give her an apology, a "I'm sorry"!
She starts to cry and throw herself at Cheng Yunshuo again.
Cheng Yunshuo has no patience left, "Are you annoying or what! Qingfeng, take her back!"
He pushes her into Qingfeng's arms and walks away without looking back, striding towards his own courtyard.
Xing Dairong watches this scene, tears streaming down her face, shattering in her eyes.
She feels the man's coldness; he truly doesn't care about her anymore.
She sobs loudly, crying and cursing at the same time.
"Cheng Yunshuo, you scumbag!"
"Dog of a man!"
"Bastard, villain! You said you would love me forever!"
"You're a heartless liar, a human trash! I hate you, I hate you! I hate you!"
Xing Dairong cries until she is breathless, and Qingfeng carries her back to Yuerong Pavilion.
The next morning, Xing Dairong intercepts Cheng Yunshuo on his way to work, trying to cause a scene again, but Cheng Yunshuo, feeling disgusted, dismisses her. That night, Cheng Yunshuo simply doesn't return to the mansion.
Rumors say he spent the night at a colleague's house.
Just to avoid Xing Dairong.
Listening to these absurd stories, Lu Lingyun only asks Doctor Liu to come more often to check on Xing Dairong's pulse, and she doesn't bother with anything else.
Meanwhile, another significant event occurs.
The results of the palace examination are announced.
To Lu Lingyun's great surprise, the new imperial scholar is none other than Liu Shuhui!
Lu Lingyun is invited to General Wang's residence by the Wang family.
The palace examination results were just announced today, and General Wang, along with the other officials, witnessed the examination in court.
Upon seeing Lu Lingyun, he praises her endlessly, "Xiao Jun, you truly have good judgment; Xiao Liu is indeed a remarkable talent!"
A few days ago, Lady Jiang had mentioned to him that she had seen a new candidate named Liu Shuhui. He observed him for two days with Lady Jiang and had several interactions with him, finding the young scholar quite interesting.
Today, during the palace examination, Liu Shuhui truly caught his eye.
Well-versed and practical in his policy proposals, his performance in the imperial questioning amazed everyone.
Such a capable and virtuous person immediately caught his attention; this son-in-law is perfect!
Chapter 118: Wang Qiluo's Matchmaking
"Is it true that Liu Shuhui has become the top scholar?"
Lu Lingyun asked only this.
"Yes, Young Master Liu is indeed full of talent. He answered all questions in the imperial hall with ease and grace, neither arrogant nor humble, and was personally appointed as the new top scholar by His Majesty!"
"What about the second and third places?"
"I don't remember the third place; he was a newcomer from another province. The second place went to a nephew of the Left Censor-in-Chief. In my opinion, he falls far short of Xiao Liu, only good at talking on paper and relying on his family background to gain favor with His Majesty."
The second place was the same as in her previous life, someone from the Left Censor-in-Chief's family. It seemed that even if Li Wenxun didn't win the top scholar, that talented young man with a deep family background still couldn't take the top spot.
But for Liu Shuhui to come out on top was truly surprising to Lu Lingyun.
"Xiao Jun, you have a good eye, picking such a fine match for our Qiluo right away," General Wang said.
Wang Qiluo, who had been listening the whole time, blushed instantly, "Father, what are you talking about! We haven't even discussed it yet!"
"I've set my eyes on this son-in-law, and Xiao Liu has agreed to come over for dinner. How can you say we haven't discussed it?"
"Is Young Master Liu coming to our house?" Wang Qiluo exclaimed in surprise.
At that moment, a servant announced from outside, "General, the newly appointed top scholar, Liu Shuhui, has arrived."
"Quickly, quickly, invite him in."
With a male guest arriving, Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo moved behind the screen.
Wang Qiluo, nervous, clutched Lu Lingyun's hand, "Lingyun..."
"There's no need to be so nervous!"
"How could Father act so hastily!" Wang Qiluo's face was both embarrassed and red.
The list was just announced today, and they were already inviting him over. What kind of thing was this?
Lu Lingyun looked at her bashful, youthful face and poked her forehead teasingly, "If we don't act fast, someone else might snatch him away!"
As she spoke, he arrived.
Behind the screen, Lu Lingyun and Wang Qiluo saw Liu Shuhui, still dressed in his simple, patched robe.
His recent success as the top scholar added a touch of confidence to his demeanor, but his inherent sharpness and composure remained unchanged.
He was the same before and after his rise to fame.
Calm and composed, with a heart as vast as mountains and rivers.
No wonder, in the years to come, he alone would become the Grand Commissioner of Jiangnan's grain transport.
"Top Scholar Liu!" General Wang strode over to him, "You finally made it!"
Liu Shuhui bowed, "General Wang, please call me Xiao Liu."
"Then don't call me General either, just Uncle Wang!"
General Wang had met Liu Shuhui twice before, once seeking his help and once offering his own. They had interacted, and both had a good impression of each other.
At the time, Liu Shuhui didn't know that General Wang was Wang Qiluo's father; he treated him like any other acquaintance, and they became friends.
After today's palace examination, Liu Shuhui learned that the person he met the other day was also an official in the court.
And he was Wang Qiluo's father.
Invitations poured in after his success as the top scholar, but Liu Shuhui declined them all. Only when Old Wang revealed his identity and mentioned that he was Wang Qiluo's father did Liu Shuhui agree to attend the banquet at the Wang residence after some thought.
"Young Master Liu is truly a star of literature descended from heaven. No wonder my husband and daughter speak so highly of you!" Lady Jiang stood beside him, sizing up Liu Shuhui.
A mother-in-law looking at her future son-in-law, the more she looked, the more satisfied she became.
Hearing her mention Wang Qiluo, Wang Qiluo, hiding behind the screen, grabbed Lu Lingyun's hand.
"Lingyun, Mother has gone mad, saying such things! What will Young Master Liu think of me!"
Lu Lingyun chuckled softly, looking at Liu Shuhui, who remained unperturbed, "Keep your voice down."
Wang Qiluo's heart pounded, and she could only continue listening with a red face.
Outside, after a brief exchange, Lady Jiang warmly invited Liu Shuhui to sit down.
Once seated, the atmosphere grew even more intense.
General Wang opened the conversation, "Xiao Liu, you're just past your coming-of-age ceremony, right?"
"Yes."
"Truly a young and accomplished man!" Lady Jiang praised.
General Wang followed up, "I have a daughter, who is sixteen this year. Her age matches yours perfectly!"
Behind the screen, Wang Qiluo almost screamed.
Father, Mother! Can't you be a bit more restrained!
So direct!
Lu Lingyun, seeing Wang Qiluo's expression, couldn't help but laugh.
Isn't this what marriage talk is all about?
Especially when it comes to catching a son-in-law from the list of successful candidates, it's all about being straightforward and direct, with no room for beating around the bush.
Liu Shuhui, who was outside, heard their conversation and frowned slightly.
"Are you talking about Miss Wang?"
"Exactly, have you met my Qiluo?"
Liu Shuhui nodded, "I've had the pleasure of meeting Miss Wang a few times."
"We only have one precious daughter, Qiluo, but she wasn't spoiled. Qiluo has a good nature, kind and lovely, with a warm heart. She is also very beautiful. I can assure you that among my friends' daughters, none can match the beauty and charm of my Qiluo." General Wang said heartily.
Wang Qiluo, blushing fiercely, dug her toes into her shoes. At that moment, she heard Liu Shuhui's voice from outside.
"Miss Wang is indeed excellent."
In an instant, her shyness and nervousness turned to bewilderment, and she looked at Lu Lingyun with eyes full of joy.
Lu Lingyun gave her a disapproving look, "Is this all you can manage!"
"You think so too, right!" Jiang Shi, hearing his praise of Wang Qiluo, clapped her hands happily, "My daughter is truly flawless, she has a bit of a temper, but her character is impeccable."
Liu Shuhui responded as usual, "Mm-hmm."
Wang Qiluo, hearing all this, was already at a loss. The next moment, she heard her father shout, "Bring in the gifts!"
Following General Wang's command, servants carried in several chests of gold and silver.
"This is five thousand taels of silver and one thousand taels of gold."
The servants then presented a tray with a stack of documents.
"These are the deeds to five estates, three shops, and two mountain properties."
Finally, a row of maidservants stepped forward.
"These are the attendants we have arranged for Qiluo."
"Young Master Liu, what do you think?"
Behind the screen, Wang Qiluo was completely speechless at the scene before her.
Her eyes wide and face flushed, she stared at her parents.
This, this, this...
"Lingyun, have my parents gone mad?"
Lu Lingyun patted her hand, watching General Wang and Lady Jiang busily arranging everything outside.
Not exaggerated, not at all. There are those who seek brides, and there are those who seek grooms.
Those who catch a son-in-law from the list don't wait for the newly-minted scholars to propose on their own. If they fancy someone, they invite them home and offer gold, silver, and conditions outright.
General Wang, being a military man, has even fewer qualms. If he likes someone, he offers the greatest sincerity openly.
If it works, it works; if it doesn't, it doesn't.