《Divine Doctor Mommy Is A True Big Shot》 Chapter 1 - 1 1 Shes Back ?Chapter 1: Chapter 1: She¡¯s Back Chapter 1: Chapter 1: She¡¯s Back January in Chu City, the city covered with white snow. The cold wind whistles, and Feng Bailing gazes blankly ahead. There lies a body, scarcely clothed, its exposed skin frozen to a bluish-purple hue. It was a woman. Feng Bailing shudders; it was her own corpse. At the street corner, a few commoners huddle and whisper. ¡°Look, that¡¯s Feng Bailing. Her body is stiff, and no one dares to claim it, even less regarded than a stray dog.¡± ¡°Is that the one who dishonored womanhood, betrayed the Seventh Prince, bore an illegitimate child, and angered her mother to death?¡± ¡°That¡¯s right, her. Despite her royal lineage, she¡¯s overbearing. Her strong fate killed her own child and caused her brother¡¯s death. She squandered the family fortune of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, which infuriated her father, the Prince Consort, leading him to disown her. Ultimately, she ended up as a beggar in the streets.¡± ¡°Fortunately, there¡¯s still the second daughter in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Xiangxue is famously beautiful and talented. Just recently, the Emperor decreed her marriage to the Seventh Prince, truly a match made in heaven.¡± A few steamed buns roll onto the snow-covered ground causing the startled crowd to disperse. Feng Bailing¡¯s expression subtly shifts. A young boy stands at the street corner, clutching a bun, behind him stops a luxurious horse carriage. His nose red from the cold, and his eyes equally reddened. He is merely four or five years old, with a chubby face like a sticky rice dumpling, thick long eyelashes, a pert nose, and eyes of one gold and one blue adding a touch of allure, even at such a young age he already possesses a stunning appearance that is sure to captivate many in the future. He stares blankly at the street corner, feeling a sour swell in his heart. The female beggar is dead. Every day he passed, he provided food for the female beggar who would smile at him. She was ugly, her face marred with odd bumps, yet her smile was beautiful. He heard what those people said. Lying alone in the icy snow for so long, she must have been very cold, very scared. The young boy lowers his gaze and softly speaks. ¡°Father, take care of her burial.¡± Behind, a tall man in dark brocade clothing approaches; he nearly resembles the mold from which the boy was cast, his features deep-set, his eyes, also a mix of gold and blue, hide behind long dark lashes, his gaze captivating. The man is surprised; his son, who has always been introverted and never sought others, suddenly shows concern for a female beggar, Feng Bailing. He steps forward, his expression indifferent but his movements gentle as he picks up the body. ¡°Alright.¡± A word agreed, alongside the drifting snowflakes. Amidst the heavy snow, tears stream down Feng Bailing¡¯s face. Gratitude and vengeance, both must be avenged! Her spirit vanishes into the snowstorm. The snow falls heavier. That day, Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince, despite widespread criticism, generously buried the infamous Feng Bailing. Chu City was in an uproar... Snow fell throughout the night, ice hanging on the vegetation within the Yong¡¯an Princess Mansion. In a room warmed by charcoal, several Maids busy themselves around a woman who had fainted; one pinches her vital point, another administers water, all bustling about. ¡°Sister Ling.¡± Someone calls beside her ear, and Feng Bailing feels her mind explode, memories of a lifetime flood in. She is Feng Bailing, the legitimate eldest daughter of the Princess Mansion of Great Chu, in her first life, she naively trusted and loved the Seventh Prince for over a decade and met a tragic end on the streets. She is still Feng Bailing, a 22nd-century all-capable medical soldier, a woman genius of Huaxia who was the first to awaken the seventh sense due to her experiences over two lifetimes. Using the seventh sense, she defied fate and returned her soul to her first life before she was divorced and ousted from the Princess Mansion. Princess Mansion, she has returned. Enemies, she has returned. Feng Bailing opens her eyes, a fleeting icy cold in her gaze, seeing a woman feeding her water. The woman has delicate features, skin like snow, willow-leaf eyebrows, and eyes shimmering with emotion, seemingly innocuous. Feng Xiangxue! Seeing that face, Feng Bailing nearly has a heart attack, she raises her hand, gathers all her strength, and slaps Feng Xiangxue across the face. The water cup falls to the ground, Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face swells up high, she covers her face as tears well in her eyes. ¡°Sister, why are you so agitated just after returning home?¡± ¡°You wanted to scald me?¡± Feng Bailing glares at her, Feng Xiangxue speechless, the water wasn¡¯t hot at all. The surrounding Maids show sympathy, the elder Miss is picking a fight again, still so arrogant and domineering after four years of isolated reflection, the second daughter is truly miserable. ¡°The elder Miss, the second daughter, they¡¯ve brought up the child from the well, she¡¯s already lifeless.¡± A servant hurriedly runs in. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s hand on her face pauses, a glint of joy flashing in her eyes. The little bastard is finally dead. Now, she just waits for the drama to unfold. ¡°The servant has already wrapped the body in a straw mat, sent for burial at Yizhuang.¡± The servant shakes his head, pitying, such a lovely young girl, gone just like that. Feng Bailing stands up, the nightmare-like memory floods her, her lips quiver, uttering only a few words. ¡°12th year of Emperor Yongye, December 16th.¡± The attendant by her side is puzzled, still, she acknowledges with a nod. December 16th, the child, the well, Yizhuang, it was the exact day her Xiao Li died. Her mother was gravely ill when she brought Xiao Li back to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Just half a day after her return, Xiao Li accidentally fell into the well while playing outside and died. On hearing her child had fallen into the well, she was so agitated she fainted, when she awoke, Xiao Li¡¯s body had already been taken away, she never got to see her one last time. In those days, Feng Bailing did nothing but weep, but having lived another lifetime, now proficient in both Eastern and Western medicine, she quickly realizes, as long as it¡¯s within a specific timeframe, there¡¯s a high chance of reviving someone from drowning! Chapter 2 - 2 2 Who is the Real Master ?Chapter 2: Chapter 2 Who is the Real Master Chapter 2: Chapter 2 Who is the Real Master Without further thought, Feng Bailing was about to leave when two nannies, round at the waist and thick in the arms, stepped forward and blocked her path. Although Princess Yong¡¯an was the official master of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, ever since giving birth to the Miss, her health had declined. The Princess, sympathetic towards the Prince Consort who as a man could not manage the inner chambers, promoted Miss¡¯s wet nurse, Ms. Xue, to be the Lord¡¯s concubine. During the Miss¡¯s years abroad, the Princess fell ill with an unidentified serious ailment, and all the significant affairs of the household fell into the hands of Aunt Xue and the second Miss. The servants in the mansion were all opportunists, siding with whoever held power¡ªnone had much regard for Feng Bailing, this Miss who had just returned. ¡°Sister Ling, it¡¯s windy and snowy outside, the person is already dead, why trouble yourself? Yizhuang is a place of bad luck; going there might bring misfortune upon yourself.¡± Feng Xiangxue¡¯s soft and gentle voice reached out to pull Feng Bailing. She thought to herself that Feng Bailing actually insisted on going to Yizhuang; she must still be foolishly clinging to the hope¡ªit must be her and the Seventh Prince¡¯s ¡°child.¡± Feng Xiangxue deliberately emphasized the word ¡°dead¡± to provoke Feng Bailing into making a fuss. The father would soon return to the mansion; only with a disturbance could she escalate the matter. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s fingers hadn¡¯t yet touched Feng Bailing when the person before her disappeared. Feng Bailing took a step forward, and the powerful nannies only saw a blur before their eyes; a light touch brushed their shoulders, their legs lost strength, and all knelt by the door with a thud. The cold wind whirled in, and the scene before her made Feng Xiangxue¡¯s hair stand on end. ¡°This is the Princess¡¯ Mansion, open your dog eyes and see who is your true master.¡± Despite the intense wind and snow, Feng Bailing¡¯s bright red brocade robes billowed, her back as taut as a bow fully drawn. Her voice was colder than the chilling wind. Despite the howling storm, it clearly reached everyone¡¯s ears. While Feng Bailing¡¯s voice still echoed in the room, she had already disappeared. The nannies, paralyzed in the legs and stunned by her words, had almost forgotten that the Miss was the Princess¡¯s own blood. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face turned a pale greenish-white, and the handkerchief in her hand was almost twisted apart. She stared venomously at Feng Bailing as her figure receded. ¡°Feng Bailing, after today, all you have will be mine!¡± Feng Bailing left the mansion. The person had already been sent to Yizhuang; without timely treatment, there could be irreversible damage due to lack of oxygen to the brain. Outside the mansion¡¯s gate, a mule carriage stood waiting. ¡°Miss, how... you¡¯ve come out. I¡¯ve been looking for you. I deserve to die for failing to take proper care of little Miss.¡± Atop the carriage, a maid dressed in emerald clothes anxiously pulled back the carriage curtain, revealing a beautiful face. Xia Zhu, Feng Bailing narrowed her eyes slightly. Xia Zhu and Chun Liu were two maids that had served by her side for a long time, both having been with her since they were little. Xia Zhu was pretty and had a sweet mouth, gaining Feng Bailing¡¯s favor. Xia Zhu said she saw the body of Feng Xiaoli being taken away and hurriedly found a mule carriage, intending to look for Feng Bailing, but failed to find her. Feng Bailing waved her hand, and Xia Zhu hastily urged the coachman to drive. The carriage jolted along the way, and soon Yizhuang was in sight, its old white lanterns swaying in the cold wind. Amid the freezing cold, Yizhuang housed only a few bodies, a straw mat wrapped around a tiny form, revealing a red jacket adorned with a golden fat carp. In her memory, Feng Xiaoli¡¯s red and chubby face resembled an apple, and when she smiled, two little dimples appeared at the corners of her mouth, her large, slick eyes gleaming. Feng Xiaoli calling out ¡°mother¡± for the first time. The first time she turned over. The first time she learned to crawl. The first time she walked. Night after night had passed. Born and raised among the dead, facing decaying bodies crawling with maggots, Feng Bailing never flinched. But at this moment, her hands trembled slightly. ¡°Miss, the dead cannot be brought back to life.¡± Xia Zhu followed behind Feng Bailing, seeing her trembling hands, thinking that she was scared. From a young age she followed Feng Bailing, knowing that Feng Bailing was famously timid, even a mouse could scare her to death. In Yizhuang, there were decaying corpses everywhere. She couldn¡¯t stay for even a short while without fainting from fear. Xia Zhu had just finished speaking when she stared with wide eyes. Feng Bailing picked up Feng Xiaoli and checked her pupils, finding them not yet dilated. Then she pried open her mouth and cleared out the dirt, checking while she asked. ¡°How long after falling into the water was she rescued?¡± ¡°A tenth of an incense stick¡¯s time.¡± Xia Zhu bit her lip and looked down while wiping her tears. The time was not long, her lungs hadn¡¯t taken in water, it was a mild dry drowning, and with the cold weather, she had simply held her breath. The rescue didn¡¯t require an emergency kit or anything of the sort. Feng Bailing leaned over Xiaoli and listened, then undid her daughter¡¯s wet and cold jacket and took off her own clothes to wrap her up. The child was young; external chest compressions followed by artificial respiration were the only options. Sweat soon soaked Feng Bailing¡¯s forehead. ¡°Miss, you¡¯re scaring me. Have you gone mad?¡± Xia Zhu saw Feng Bailing making bizarre, inexplicable actions and her eyes widened in shock. As soon as she finished speaking, a rise and fall appeared on the small body¡¯s chest, and Feng Xiaoli spat out a mouthful of cold water. She opened her large, shiny eyes and when she saw Feng Bailing clearly, a sparkle returned to the little one¡¯s eyes. She flailed her small hands, asking for a hug. Xia Zhu felt like she was struck by lightning, stepping back. The little Miss, alive again! ¡°Xiaoli, dear, mom is here.¡± Feng Bailing held her regained daughter close, and in that moment, her empty heart was suddenly filled. Holding her child, her eyes grew cold, her gaze sharp as daggers, directed towards Xia Zhu. ¡°Tell me, who told you to push Xiaoli into the water?¡± Xia Zhu¡¯s face panicked and she stammered. ¡°Miss, it¡¯s a misunderstanding. The little Miss fell in by herself.¡± ¡°The well in the Princess¡¯ Mansion isn¡¯t deep enough to reach someone¡¯s chest. Xiaoli is too short and dislikes water. She would never climb around recklessly. The only possibility for her to fall into the well is if someone pushed her.¡± Feng Bailing stared coldly at Xia Zhu, realizing how foolish she had been to let these demons and snakes around her blind her. ¡°Miss, I stepped away at that time... I¡¯ve been by your side since I was little, even if you suspect anyone, it should not be me.¡± Faced with Feng Bailing¡¯s attitude, so starkly different from usual, Xia Zhu pleaded her case desperately, crying as she knelt. Feng Bailing sneered and spread open the right fist that Xiaoli had been clenching tightly. Inside the fist was only a piece of fabric, the color of which matched Xia Zhu¡¯s own clothes exactly. Xia Zhu quickly looked at her sleeve cuff only to find that a corner was missing. She gasped in shock; she hadn¡¯t expected this little wild brat, so young yet so cunning, had tricked her! ¡°Xiaoli, well done!¡± Feng Bailing kissed Feng Xiaoli. Feng Xiaoli¡¯s face was flushed, her little chest puffed proudly, looking as pleased as a little quail. Xia Zhu¡¯s face changed, wiping away the tears on her face, where not a trace of respect remained. ¡°Seize them and take them to the master.¡± The coachman, face fierce, burst in, carrying a stick as thick as an arm and swung it towards Feng Bailing. Chapter 3 - 3 3 Handsome Daddy ?Chapter 3: Chapter 3 Handsome Daddy Chapter 3: Chapter 3 Handsome Daddy ¡°Xiao Li, go wait for me on the mule cart outside. Feng Bailing sidestepped to avoid a swing of the club, she had long suspected Xia Zhu was problematic. Back when she was driven out of Feng Mansion, Chun Liu followed her until she was tragically killed in the streets, but Xia Zhu had been silent all along. Looking back now, she had no doubt turned her back on her mistress for personal gain. Lady Che was tall and big, swishing the club through the air with such force that it was clear she was a trained fighter. With her own injuries still unhealed, and Xiao Li in tow, she was no match for her. Feng Xiaoli was pushed by her a dozen steps away; Xia Zhu caught up and tried to grab her. Just as one stick was dodged, another came right at her; Feng Bailing ducked and aimed a kick at the coachman¡¯s lower abdomen, causing him to cry out in pain. She swiftly stepped forward and elbowed the man right in the eye socket. The coachman never expected that the delicate-looking young lady from the Princess¡¯ Mansion would be more ferocious than any bandit, striking with lethal force at every turn. With another blow, the coachman fell to the ground with a thud. Feng Bailing searched the coachman¡¯s body, donned his tattered jacket, and hurriedly went to find Xiao Li. ¡®You little bastard, stop running!¡¯ Xia Zhu was hot on the heels of Feng Xiaoli. Feng Xiaoli, being short and having little legs, was easy to catch. The footsteps behind her grew increasingly closer; Feng Xiaoli, bundled up in thick clothes, was running out of breath and pouted her lips, muttering something at Xia Zhu. As Xia Zhu was about to catch up, she slipped and fell flat on her face with a thud, her mouth smashing into a piece of ice, scattering both teeth and blood. With her face covered in blood, Xia Zhu struggled to get up, clutching her mouth. ¡®You little bastard, I¡¯ll skin you alive.¡¯ Feng Xiaoli kept running forward, with only one thought in mind, not to let the bad woman catch her. The blizzard was heavy, and soon, the visibility was completely obscured by the snowstorm. Near the official road, a chestnut horse was galloping fast, and some hundreds of meters away, over a dozen black horses were in relentless pursuit. Amidst the encroaching snowstorm, suddenly, a small figure darted out. The man on horseback squinted, tightening his grip on the reins. Feng Xiaoli looked back to see a big horse about to trample her. She measured the length of the horse¡¯s legs against her own short ones, pursed her lips, curled into a ball, and whispered something. The horse let out a long neigh; just about to set hoof down, it seemed to be struck a heavy blow, and tumbled down into the snowy ground. The man¡¯s left leg hit the ground with a piercing pain; frowning deeply, he didn¡¯t check his wounds as he realized a ¡®short and stout¡¯ figure had latched onto his right leg. A little thing with two small pigtails, a red, flushed face, and short arms and legs, now staring with round, glossy eyes, hanging onto his right leg without letting go. So cute! Looking up at a 180-degree angle, stars shimmered in Feng Xiaoli¡¯s eyes. His nose was good-looking, high and proud. His eyebrows were good-looking, thick and full. His mouth was good-looking, neither thin nor too thick. His eyes were the best-looking of all. One was blue, the other glittering gold, like delicious candy! ¡®Daddy!¡¯ Feng Xiaoli was so excited that she smeared her snot all over the man¡¯s pant leg. The man¡¯s handsome face stiffened, behind him, the sound of approaching horse hooves drawing closer... The mule cart was nowhere to be seen, and in the air there was a faint scent of blood; Feng Bailing¡¯s expression darkened. She followed the scent and found several male bodies lying in disarray across the snow. Each body was severed from head to tail, the assailant¡¯s technique was seasoned and fierce; whatever weapon was used had ripped open their throats with a single move. Feng Bailing¡¯s heart sank. Feng Xiaoli¡¯s soft calling sound came from not too far away. Feng Bailing¡¯s heart warmed, and she turned around to see, through wind and snow, a man in black leaning against a horse¡¯s carcass. The horse carcass had already frozen stiff. The man had his eyes closed, and Feng Xiaoli honestly clung to his calf. She quickly stepped forward and held Feng Xiaoli in her arms. The little one obviously didn¡¯t yet grasp what had happened, her large, shiny eyes blinking as she spoke in a tender, milky voice. ¡°Daddy, hurts.¡± Feng Xiaoli had finally found her daddy, but daddy was in a bad mood, sternly telling her to cling tightly to his calf, not to lower her head, and not to talk. He was flitting about, and Xiao Li felt so dizzy. Feng Bailing frowned; the man had killed more than a dozen people, his body filled with a fierce aura; he was a ruthless character! The man¡¯s head hung low, his complexion flushed red, and his breathing somewhat hurried; his right hand held a horsewhip while his left sleeve was stained with blood that had already frozen along with ice. One leg was intact, but the other was thrust into the cold snow, already blackened. Clean the wound, disinfect, antibiotics... It was almost at first glance that Feng Bailing made her diagnosis, but regrettably, since her rebirth, her seventh sense had been exhausted, and the multi-functional first-aid kit she carried was gone. As soon as the man caught the scent of another person, his murderous intent exploded, and he abruptly looked up. On his wheat-colored face, one eye as blue as the vast sea, the other as dark as the night; his long hair from the fight was draped over his neck, wet and trailing sensuously onto his collarbone. A handsome face with an untamed wildness, almost a demonic allure. It was him! In the chilly wind, the man who had covered her with a warm large cloak, her great benefactor. But what shocked Feng Bailing even more was that the instant the man raised his eyes, her dormant seventh sense within¡ªas if suddenly plucked guitar strings¡ªvibrated, and the scenery before her eyes drastically changed. Behind the man, a Nine-clawed Purple-gold Dragon coiled in mid-air, its body entrapped with layers of golden shackles, the Purple Gold Dragon¡¯s aura hazy, surrounded with thousands of feet of radiant golden light that hurt the eyes. Realizing someone could peer into himself, the Purple Gold Dragon looked at Feng Bailing disdainfully. Child of Aura, Emperor¡¯s Treasure! Enveloped in this purple light, Feng Bailing felt her spirits lift and her seventh sense grow stronger. Her heart raced, she closed her eyes, and upon opening them, she felt inside her sleeve, where there now was a first-aid kit. The man also saw Feng Bailing clearly¡ªa woman with an ugly face. Full of bumps and lumps, wearing an ill-fitting grey man¡¯s jacket, the only remarkable feature was her eyes, which didn¡¯t quite match her ugliness¡ªa pair of limpid autumnal eyes, faced with the current circumstances, utterly calm, clear, and undisturbed. The small, chubby figure held in her arms must be a relative of the child. ¡°Scram.¡± He growled lowly, other than Yan¡¯er, the approach of any woman disgusted him, the figures in front of him gradually blurring until, with a groan, he eventually collapsed into the snow due to exhaustion. Feng Xiaoli hurriedly jumped down from Feng Bailing¡¯s embrace and ran to the man¡¯s side, her little face so wrinkled it resembled a steamed bun. ¡°Daddy.¡± ¡°Who said he¡¯s your daddy?¡± Feng Bailing rubbed her temples with a headache, recalling that in her first life, it was only after her engagement was broken that she found out the Seventh Prince was not Feng Xiaoli¡¯s father at all; it was a street porter whom she had spent a debauched night with, drunk, due to a scheme by him and Feng Xiangxue. Who Feng Xiaoli¡¯s real father was, Feng Bailing did not know, he might have been erased long ago, and grass could have grown over his grave. ¡°He¡¯s the most handsome, daddy!¡± After Feng Xiaoli learned to speak, she loved to ask who her daddy was. Why did Xiao Pang from next door at the Other Manor have a daddy, and Xiao Pang¡¯s daddy also had a daddy, and the little pig raised by Xiao Pang¡¯s family also had a daddy, and the little chicken raised by Xiao Pang¡¯s family, too, only she did not? At that time, Feng Bailing was still infatuated with the Seventh Prince and casually replied that the most handsome man she met would be her daddy (the Seventh Prince). Prophetic words, the little one took them to heart¡ªand truth be told, this man indeed looked better than the Seventh Prince. Feng Xiaoli looked at Feng Bailing full of anticipation. The man¡¯s cold eyes glared at Feng Bailing, a gaze that could freeze a person to death. This pair, big and small... Feng Bailing could only walk to one side and opened up the first-aid kit. Chapter 4 - 4 4 Multifunctional First Aid Kit ?Chapter 4: Chapter 4: Multifunctional First Aid Kit Chapter 4: Chapter 4: Multifunctional First Aid Kit In the 22nd century, due to drastic environmental changes, human bodies mutated, and an extremely small number of geniuses developed a seventh sense, also known as Divine Sense, after being stimulated by brain drugs on the basis of the five senses and the sixth sense. Feng Bailing was once one of them. The consciousness space she established could keep expanding as her seventh sense grew stronger. As a medical soldier, she originally had a Medical Cabin, an army supply depot, and all sorts of materials in her space. Unfortunately, to be reborn and take revenge, she depleted her seventh sense. She did not expect that after meeting this person, her seventh sense would be reignited. The emergency aid kit she held in her hand was the very first thing Feng Bailing created using her seventh sense. For ease of carrying, the military emergency aid kit of the 22nd century was designed to be the size of a music box, but the interior space was not small. With a quick glance at the first layer, it held a medical emergency kit, disinfectant alcohol, a few bottles of concentrated medicine, and two pieces of chocolate. The Emperor¡¯s Treasure, these people lead lives filled with great fortune. By following him, one could definitely live without worries, prospering rapidly, and the seventh sense would surge wildly. Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t afford to look more closely, she simply took out the emergency kit and chocolate, breaking off a piece to feed to Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Want a piece?¡± Feng Bailing offered the chocolate to the man. To let him ¡°eat dirt¡±? The man¡¯s face was cold, he flicked his whip, but Feng Bailing quickly stepped on his whip with swift hands and feet. ¡°Eat when I tell you to. In a godforsaken place like this, you can¡¯t die before your companions find you. At least, don¡¯t die in front of my daughter, it would dirty her eyes.¡± Feng Bailing forced the chocolate into the man¡¯s mouth. Upon tasting it, a rich sweetness enveloped him; the dirt that seemed so filthy tasted surprisingly fragrant, and his body felt a lot warmer. The man¡¯s face remained stern, but internally he was astonished by what magical food this was. ¡°What are you doing!¡± It was then that the man realized that Feng Bailing had knelt beside him and torn open his left trouser leg. His ears reddened with anger. ¡°My daughter¡¯s life was saved by you. I am helping you this once as a way to repay the favor.¡± The man was about to kick her away when he noticed Feng Xiaoli had run over at some point and was hugging his right leg. ¡°Daddy, eat the candy.¡± Feng Xiaoli was reluctant to let go, licking her fingers and presenting saliva-covered chocolate to the man. The man¡¯s throat tightened. The cold words he intended to say got stuck in his throat as if the wind was too strong and he had bitten his tongue. A sharp fragrance reached them, and the man frowned, taking in a sharp breath. ¡°What are you doing now!¡± The man saw that Feng Bailing had taken out several strange objects and a willow-leaf-shaped iron knife, the pain in his leg was excruciating. ¡°Cleaning the wound, disinfecting. If your leg isn¡¯t treated, it¡¯ll be ruined. A big man like you afraid of pain, what a waste of my anesthetic ointment.¡± Feng Bailing grudgingly applied a sticky yellow paste to his wound, and within a few breaths, the man felt the pain rapidly dissipate. Feng Bailing skillfully debrided the necrotic tissue and finally applied iodine, securing with a sterile bandage. She moved through these steps fluidly, and the man, though still frowning, could only coldly gaze at Feng Bailing. A fast horse galloped towards them, and a tall young man dismounted. ¡°My Lord, Feng Wan deserves to die for arriving late.¡± Feng Wan attempted to help the man stand up but found that the Lord couldn¡¯t stand, let alone get on a horse. ¡°Where is Lu Yin?¡± The man¡¯s eyes were deeply somber. There were too many people in Chu City that wanted him dead, he couldn¡¯t return like this. ¡°Lu Yin is being hunted by the Xingxiu Sect, we lost contact after we were separated.¡± After examining the man¡¯s injuries, Feng Wan realized that the man¡¯s left leg had been hit by a Tube Arrow with several poisons on it, coupled with frostbite, the pain below his left knee was unbearable. ¡°He won¡¯t make it back to Chu City like this.¡± Feng Bailing was certain there would be an ambush along the way and sighed inwardly: it is said that those with the Emperor¡¯s Treasure destiny are rare, yet this Child of Aura is somewhat unusual. His Nine-clawed Purple-gold Dragon is trapped, which has surely affected his fortune. ¡°Who are you?¡± Feng Wan drew her scabbard. Upon seeing the ferocious visage of the other party, Feng Xiaoli hurried to Feng Bailing¡¯s side, puffing up with anger, her small mouth mumbling. Snap- Feng Wan¡¯s meticulously forged precious sword unexpectedly broke in two. The north wind howls~ Feng Wan¡¯s mouth twitched fiercely, awkwardly holding the hilt of the blade, while the man beside her couldn¡¯t help but be moved. Feng Xiaoli pursed her lips. ¡°Your Majesty, Xiao Li wants to go home with daddy.¡± Feng Wan gasped in shock; in just one day, he suddenly had a daughter. However, this was not surprising, as he had acquired a son overnight in years past! But what relation does this ugly woman have with me? The man frowned deeply, and his short and plump figure made him inexplicably uncomfortable. ¡°Give them the horse.¡± The man said brusquely, with these two women around, the noise gave him a headache, the farther they rolled away, the better. Feng Bailing¡¯s heart stirred, she hadn¡¯t expected that the man would give their only horse to her and her daughter, contradicting the image of the ruthless killer as told in rumors. ¡°Ninth Prince, can we make a deal?¡± As soon as the three words were spoken, Feng Wan¡¯s face dramatically changed. ¡°You know who I am?¡± The man¡¯s eyes deepened. ¡°Ninth Prince of Great Chu, Dugu Wu, known throughout the land, the name of the Heterochromia King is unparalleled. At the age of fourteen, you donned armor and slew enemies, and in more than a decade, you have razed over a hundred cities and toppled three nations, conquering half of Great Chu¡¯s territories by yourself.¡± When Feng Bailing saw those heterochromic eyes, she had her suspicions, and upon seeing the Nine-clawed Purple-gold Dragon, she confirmed his identity. ¡°My lord, this person must not be spared.¡± Just as Feng Wan was about to make a move, Feng Bailing raised her hand, and a Tube Arrow appeared in her right hand. ¡°This was found on a black-clad corpse. If anyone dares to move, I¡¯ll let it fly. If we are to die, we¡¯ll all die together.¡± ¡°What do you want?¡± Dugu Wu had already seen the ugly woman¡¯s tactics; she was ferocious and cunning and knew how to scavenge in piles of bodies. If he didn¡¯t agree to her terms, she would truly bring about mutual destruction. There could still be an ambush by the Xingxiu Sect nearby. Tiger and leopard against jackal, with one look, hmm, he understands, and so does she. ¡°I have a method to make the Prince stand up again, but the prescription won¡¯t come cheap.¡± Feng Bailing had examined Dugu Wu¡¯s injuries; a mixture of various toxins, extremely complex, which had already eroded his nerves. Such an injury had no cure in Great Chu. ¡°My lord is the wealthiest under heaven...¡± Before Feng Wan could finish, Feng Bailing shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t want money unless Ninth Prince agrees to take me as his Princess Consort. Otherwise, the prescription is not for sale, even for all the gold in the world.¡± ¡°You are not fit to be my Princess Consort. I can agree to other terms.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s face remained cold; he had promised Yan¡¯er that he would wait for her. Feng Bailing had lived two lifetimes and knew that in this era of great strife, it was difficult for a weak woman like herself, with Xiao Li, to survive. Dugu Wu was born with the Emperor¡¯s Treasure destiny. Her seventh sense was awakened upon meeting him, ensuring that she and Xiao Li could live carefree lives under his protection. As for her own appearance, she had no fear that Dugu Wu would harbor malicious intentions towards her. ¡°Do you have that ability?¡± In the absence of Lu Yin, Dugu Wu weighed his options and decided to test the woman¡¯s medical skills. Feng Bailing was not intimidated; stepping forward, she took out a needle she had prepared earlier and punctured Dugu Wu¡¯s left knee. Chapter 5 - 5 5 Endocrine Disruption is a Major Issue ?Chapter 5: Chapter 5 Endocrine Disruption is a Major Issue Chapter 5: Chapter 5 Endocrine Disruption is a Major Issue Dugu Wu felt as if his knee had been stung by a bee, followed by a numbing sensation, and the pain quickly disappeared. Due to the emergency, Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t prepare herbal medicine and had to use a concentrated medicinal solution. Luckily, there was a dose of leftover lidocaine in the emergency box which she applied on the needle for pain block and injected into the injured knee, allowing Dugu Wu to lose his sense of pain, akin to having a cast. ¡°Within thirty-six hours, the Ninth Prince can walk as usual, but remember not to channel Qi, eat light food, avoid stimulants, oh, and also women. In addition, here are a few packs of medicinal powder for you. If you have a fever, take half a pack a day.¡± Feng Bailing fumbled in her sleeve and pulled out a few packets of crushed anti-inflammatory medicine. With Feng Wan¡¯s help, Dugu Wu took a few steps, just a few, and Feng Wan¡¯s eyes nearly popped out. Dugu Wu felt no pain in his lower left limb and could indeed walk freely. He relaxed his heart but suddenly felt something was amiss; he touched his waist, and rage stormed in his eyes. ¡°Take it out!¡± In Feng Bailing¡¯s hand was already a piece of Jade Pendant, warm and hand-sized but only half of it, unrecognizable as any particular animal. ¡°This is my other condition, Ninth Prince. A promise made by a gentleman is hard to retract.¡± Feng Bailing secretly rejoiced, knowing this Jade Pendant was Dugu Wu¡¯s personal item, imbued with much of his essence, perfect for enhancing the seventh sense. Dugu Wu had a dark face; he had been tricked. Feng Bailing bundled up Xiao Li snugly, and mother and daughter mounted the horse. Feng Xiaoli¡¯s eyes were red, much like a little white rabbit, reluctant to leave, turning her head back every three steps. ¡°Xiao Li, behave, he will come looking for us.¡± That man, still stubborn; after three days, he would understand that only she could cure his wound. Approaching Chu City, Feng Bailing slowed down as a figure stumbled forward. Feng Bailing focused and saw that the arrival had a round face and was unremarkable, wearing an old washed-out coat. It was her other maid, Chun Liu. ¡°Woo woo woo, Miss, Miss, I¡¯m glad you¡¯re alright.¡± Seeing Feng Bailing and Feng Xiaoli, Chun Liu¡¯s heart dropped a heavy stone, and she collapsed on the ground. A pair of hands appeared; Feng Bailing dismounted, helped Chun Liu up, and patted off the dirt for her. ¡°Miss, don¡¯t dirty your hands.¡± Chun Liu got busy; she was covered in snow and mud, her face red, feeling guilty for always being clumsy, unlike Xia Zhu, who enjoyed Miss¡¯s favor. Seeing Chun Liu after such a long time felt like worlds apart to Feng Bailing. After Xiao Li¡¯s tragic death, she was discovered to have lost her virtue and was expelled from the Princess¡¯ Mansion the same day. By then, Xia Zhu had already disappeared; only Chun Liu, whom she had always despised, was willing to follow her. When they were starving and fell into street homelessness, Chun Liu went from door to door washing clothes to support them both. But Chun Liu¡¯s fate... One day, while out washing clothes, she was raped by men sent by Xiangxue, lying naked on the ground, point and stared at, and Feng Bailing vividly remembered their last encounter. ¡°Miss, Chun Liu is dirty... Don¡¯t dirty your hands.¡± Chun Liu lay on the muddy street like a rag, her once plump cheeks now hollowed. She struggled to squeeze out a smile and closed her eyes. ¡°Chun Liu isn¡¯t dirty at all.¡± Feng Bailing embraced Chun Liu, and the warm body of the other reminded her that all of this was not a dream. Xiao Li, Chun Liu... mother, everything about the Princess¡¯ Mansion, there¡¯s still time. ¡°Miss, quickly return to the Princess¡¯ Mansion; something serious has happened, the master wants to expel you from the mansion.¡± Chun Liu felt honored and startled, her words came out unclearly. ¡°Feng Zhanlian has returned.¡± Feng Bailing also knew that now was not the time for sorrow or grief; what was meant to come would eventually come. Chun Liu was perplexed and puzzled. How could Miss dare to call Master by his name outright? In her memory, Miss had always preferred the company of Master over the Princess, despite being less close to him. Master was the top scorer, graceful in presence, and charming in literature. Miss had a stubborn personality, but she was the only filial daughter in front of Master, very obedient. ¡°Chun Liu, I recall you have a distant relative in Chu City; take Xiao Li and stay there for a while. There are things in the mansion that I need to handle. I will come later to fetch you two.¡± In a previous life, no one buried Chun Liu. Feng Bailing, having no money, ended with Chun Liu¡¯s relatives burying her, preventing her body from being left exposed on the streets. Feng Bailing took out a purse, containing a gold leaf and some small silver change, all of which she gave to Chun Liu. Although from a distinguished family, Feng Bailing never used to carry money, which was always managed by the astute Xia Zhu. The purse was found on the Coachman, presumably given as a reward by someone. Chun Liu was utterly confused but fortunately, her mind wasn¡¯t keen, yet she had a significant advantage: she never asked unnecessary questions. In her heart, she felt that Miss was somewhat different today, her actions and speech resembled those of generals about to go to war in a play! Feng Xiaoli, however, did not cry or fuss. She always liked round-faced Chun Liu, who resembled a mooncake, disliked Xia Zhu, and moreover, did not care for that place called ¡°Pig Mansion,¡± where people spoke oddly. ¡°Miss, if Master troubles you, go find the Princess. There is no overnight grudge between mother and daughter; bow down to her, and she will surely help you.¡± After Chun Liu and Xiao Li left, Feng Bailing took the horse back to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Upon seeing Feng Bailing, the servants of the Princess¡¯ Mansion looked at her differently, and Housekeeper Wang asked her to meet Master in the front hall. Feng Bailing scoffed, ignoring him and returned to her own room. After several years of absence, the room was covered in a thick layer of dust. Feng Bailing glanced at herself in the copper mirror. Upon seeing her reflection, she was again shocked by her own appearance. So ugly. Her face was full of red bumps, some festering with pus, her swollen features a ghastly sight. No wonder the despicable Seventh Prince disdained her; instead, there was Feng Xiangxue, with eyes full of spring and a waist as slender as willow, her delicate form, which any man would love. The moment of realization¡ªwhen she had become like this¡ªcame swiftly. Feng Bailing remembered that since she had memory, Aunt Xue had loved to prepare sweets and meats for her. By the age of seven or eight, she had grown as round as a ball. Then later, pregnant, her face began to develop bumps, one after another, completely ruining her face. After giving birth, the bumps never subsided. She touched the bumps, slightly resembling acne¡ªperhaps she had a severe hormonal imbalance... Just as she was thinking, the room¡¯s door banged open. ¡°Unfilial daughter, you still have the face to return!¡± The newcomer was a middle-aged man over forty, dressed as an official, still handsome with a well-groomed beard and upright posture, indeed a middle-aged handsome man. Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face contorted slightly with rage. Beside him, the red-cheeked Feng Xiangxue and the two kneeling nannies followed. Seeing Feng Bailing¡¯s hideous appearance, Feng Zhanlian was even more enraged. Utterly grotesque, such a person being his daughter and having done such disgraceful deeds, indeed a disgrace¡ªwhy wasn¡¯t it her who died in a well? Feng Xiangxue scoffed internally; she knew Feng Bailing well. Confronted by father, Feng Bailing had no choice but to kneel and beg for mercy. Unexpectedly, without even lifting her eyelids, Feng Bailing¡¯s lips twitched slightly, uttering just two words. ¡°Kneel down.¡± Chapter 6 - 6 6 The Seventh Prince Who Broke Off the ?Chapter 6: Chapter 6: The Seventh Prince Who Broke Off the Engagement Chapter 6: Chapter 6: The Seventh Prince Who Broke Off the Engagement Kneel down. Just two soft words, yet they struck Feng Zhanlian like a slap in the face. ¡°How dare you tell me to kneel!¡± Feng Zhanlian trembled with fury, wishing he could slap to death this disobedient daughter. ¡°Father, please do not be angry, Sister Ling must be too heartbroken and spoke without thinking.¡± Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face was full of concern as she patted Feng Zhanlian¡¯s back to calm him. Feng Zhanlian got even angrier upon hearing this. ¡°I asked them to kneel. Having not returned for several years, has the Princess¡¯ Mansion¡¯s discipline gone astray? Who allowed them to stand without my order?¡± Feng Bailing raised her hand, pointing at the two nannies. ¡°Sister Ling, please don¡¯t be angry. I was the one who let them stand. They are all old servants of the mansion, frail and elderly, with the cold and heavy snow, I feared they couldn¡¯t withstand it.¡± Feng Xiangxue looked empathetic towards the servants, instantly gaining favor from the two nannies. The Second Miss is truly a living Bodhisattva; they indeed found the right mistress. ¡°If I remember correctly, they are my servants. Since when did you take over with your false kindness? Not to mention kneeling for a while, even if I sold them outright, it would be completely justified.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s gaze was cold and composed as she took out two indenture contracts, which Chun Liu had been secretly hiding and had just handed over to her. Upon hearing they might be sold, the two nannies panicked, and with pang pang sounds, they knelt neatly. ¡°Great Miss, you are our true mistress, this old servant won¡¯t dare anymore.¡± ¡°It was my mistake, my sister dislikes me, I will leave right now.¡± Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face turned deathly pale, she covered her face and was about to run out when Feng Zhanlian called her back. ¡°The one who should leave is her, not you. After committing such indecent acts, she still has the face to return.¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face grew stern. ¡°Housekeeper Wang, apply family discipline!¡± Uncle Wang stepped forward carrying the red lacquer box. Inside was a thorny stick as thick as a thumb. The thorny stick, soaked in tung oil, was very resilient and would tear flesh upon impact. Feng Bailing watched coldly as Feng Zhanlian and his daughter played their parts. Back then, she was beaten until bloody and raw by a thorny stick, expelled from the Princess¡¯ Mansion with barely a life left, unable to defend herself when the Seventh Prince called off their engagement, forced by Feng Zhanlian to press her bloody thumbprint on the divorce papers. All the servants of the Princess¡¯ Mansion were present but none pleaded for her. Feng Zhanlian picked up the thorny stick and whipped it towards Feng Bailing¡¯s body and face. Feng Xiangxue showed a schadenfreude expression. Feng Bailing caught Feng Zhanlian¡¯s wrist reflexively, performed a quick maneuver, and grabbed the thorny stick. Pushing Feng Zhanlian away, he staggered and nearly fell to the ground. ¡°You dare to strike back! You lost your virtue, gave birth to a bastard, if I were you, I would have already thrown myself into a well.¡± Feng Zhanlian, a mere scholar, was already gasping for breath, with agitated bluster and glaring eyes. Beside him, Feng Xiangxue was inwardly shocked. After a visit to Yizhuang, was Feng Bailing possessed by a spirit? Not crying or fussing, instead attacking her father? Slap¡ª A cry of pain was heard. Feng Xiangxue had just taken a hit from Feng Bailing. ¡°Sister, why are you hitting people randomly?¡± Feng Xiangxue hurriedly hid behind Feng Zhanlian, but Feng Bailing¡¯s thorny stick seemed to have eyes, bypassing Feng Zhanlian and hitting the target every time. ¡°I¡¯ve only been back for half a day, and rumors have already spread. I¡¯ve only seen a few of you, the ones who saw are also responsible for spreading rumors. Whoever defames me, I will beat.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s thorny stick fell like wind and rain, sparing no one, snapping at the two nannies and even giving Uncle Wang a few strikes. She appeared to strike without strength, yet her blows landed on the most nerve-dense areas of the body, causing severe pain within seconds. ¡°I must kill you, you unfilial daughter, today! Somebody help!¡± Before Feng Zhanlian could finish speaking, a cold sensation hit his forehead, the thorny stick looming over him. The words at his lips were swallowed back with a gulp of saliva. ¡°After four years, I finally realized I have a father. Other fathers would painstakingly care for their children. But you, you just follow the herd and are easily swayed by slander. Feng Zhanlian, what evidence do you have that proves my loss of chastity and virtue?¡± Evidence? Feng Zhanlian was dumbstruck, stealing a glance at Feng Xiangxue. Indeed, there was no evidence. A father beating his daughter is righteous by nature! He had disliked Bai Ling for a long time and now that the princess was close to death, he no longer needed to pretend. Feng Xiangxue was anxiously panicking inside. Xia Zhu, that wretched woman, had promised to come back with evidence. What hour was it now, and she was still nowhere to be seen? Little did she know, on her ride back, Bai Ling had turned around to set Yizhuang on fire and Xiao Li had been taken away. Feng Xiangxue truly had no evidence at hand. ¡°Without any proof or evidence, a mere usurper dares to slander me.¡± A cold glare flickered in Bai Ling¡¯s eyes. The thorny stick in her hand whistled through the air, swinging towards Feng Xiangxue. Feng Xiangxue screamed, trying to run for the door, only to bump into a firm embrace just a few steps away. The familiar scent of sandalwood enveloped her, immediately misting her eyes with tears. She hid in the person¡¯s embrace, sobbing softly. ¡°Seventh Prince, she didn¡¯t mean it; she was just angry with me. I shouldn¡¯t have let someone take her child to Yizhuang...¡± Mid-sentence, she abruptly covered her own mouth, her face overwhelmed with panic and fear. ¡°She bullied you again?¡± The newcomer lowered their head to see Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face swollen like a bun, her delicate skin marred with bruises, his protective instincts intensifying. Since childhood, Bai Ling had always bullied Xiangxue because she was the legitimate daughter of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, while Xiangxue was a concubine daughter, beautiful and talented but suppressed by her status. ¡°Bai Ling, do you have no respect for the law left in your eyes!¡± Seeing Bai Ling¡¯s repulsive appearance, the newcomer felt both disgusted and furious. Two guards drew their scabbards, confronting Bai Ling. Bai Ling looked coldly at them. Dongfang Li stood tall, wrapped in a gray fox fur over a purple, cloud-patterned brocade robe, wearing a Jade Crown that accentuated his profound gaze and defined eyebrows. In his embrace, Feng Xiangxue blushed shyly, love apparent between them. Bai Ling felt disgusted. ¡°The law? This is the law!¡± As Bai Ling spoke, she swung the thorny stick relentlessly. The guards, unaware of her lack of martial honor in striking without warning, one of them got hit on the wrist and the scabbard slipped out, flying towards Dongfang Li and Feng Xiangxue. Dongfang Li instinctively shielded Feng Xiangxue, who screamed in terror. Just then, the blade veered and embedded in a nearby pillar. ¡°Bai Ling, you... you¡¯re rebelling... you killed Xia Zhu, and now you¡¯re trying to harm me. I want to call off the engagement!¡± ¡°This wretched daughter killed Xia Zhu?¡± Feng Zhanlian, following with the housekeeper, brightened upon seeing the Seventh Prince. ¡°Prince Consort Feng, I heard Bai Ling returned, and I wanted to check on her. Unknown to me, outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, I found the maid Xia Zhu and a suicide note. The note specified that four years ago, Bai Ling had an illicit affair and bore an illegitimate child. To silence her, she forced Xia Zhu to swallow gold.¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s two guards quickly left and returned dragging Xia Zhu. Xia Zhu, pale as death, foaming at the mouth, was barely clinging to life. Chapter 7 - 7 7 The Big Shot in the Ancestral Affairs Office ?Chapter 7: Chapter 7 The Big Shot in the Ancestral Affairs Office Chapter 7: Chapter 7 The Big Shot in the Ancestral Affairs Office What is Xia Zhu¡¯s golden-swallowing act all about now? Feng Bailing raised her eyes and saw Dongfang Li take out a letter. ¡°Ungrateful girl, won¡¯t you kneel down and beg the Seventh Prince for mercy? Don¡¯t get the Princess¡¯ Mansion involved.¡± Feng Zhanlian was so furious that she trembled all over. ¡°Seventh Prince, I beg you not to kill Sister Ling. She was at her wit¡¯s end. Please, for the sake of her being your fiance?e, spare her.¡± Upon hearing this, Feng Xiangxue knelt down before Feng Bailing, bumping her head on the ground pleading with Dongfang Li. To the bystanders, this scene suggested a deep sisterly bond, and they lamented that Feng Bailing had such a good sister. ¡°Xiangxue, you are truly too kind. Despite her treatment of you, you still plead for her. Well then, I will consider your and the Princess¡¯ reputation. As for the murder, it is a major issue; we still need the Princess to come out and explain.¡± Dongfang Li thought to himself that both were daughters of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, but while Feng Bailing had the heart of a scorpion, Feng Xiangxue had the heart of an orchid, making her the best candidate for his Princess Consort. ¡°Sister, please ask our mother to come out.¡± Feng Xiangxue implored Feng Bailing. At that time, Feng Bailing hadn¡¯t seen through Feng Xiangxue¡¯s malicious intent. After being brutally beaten, in order to preserve her engagement with the Seventh Prince, she disregarded her ill mother, Princess Yong¡¯an, and asked her to come out. Upon seeing Feng Bailing bruised and battered, Princess Yong¡¯an was both angry and anxious, and she spat blood and died on the spot. After the death of Princess Yong¡¯an, Feng Bailing was driven out of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Feng Zhanlian and her father took over the Princess¡¯ Mansion and, relying on a secret decree left by the late Emperor, they curried favor with the Seventh Prince and rose rapidly through the ranks. It was not until her death that Feng Bailing understood all of this. ¡°Feng Xiangxue, my mother is seriously ill, and you want her to come out at this time; are you trying to enrage her to death? Moreover, Xia Zhu isn¡¯t dead yet; how have I committed murder and silenced him? No need for anyone to accompany me; I want to see an official.¡± With that light comment, Feng Bailing left Feng Xiangxue speechless. Her mouth opened and shut, but she dared not speak again of asking the Princess to come out. ¡°Ungrateful girl, aren¡¯t you ashamed enough, yet you still want to see an official?¡± Feng Zhanlian was so angered she could barely stand. ¡°The Law of Great Chu clearly stipulates that, as the legitimate heir of the Princess¡¯ Mansion and recorded in the Royal Jade Disc, aside from the Emperor and the Ancestral Affairs Office, who dares to deal with me! I wish to go to the Ancestral Affairs Office!¡± Feng Bailing positioned the thorny stick in front of her, her eyes emitting a cold, stern light. Dongfang Li frowned. Of course, he knew the Law of Great Chu, but how could this pig-headed Feng Bailing know of it? The Ancestral Affairs Office¡¯s Order Keeper was that person... more troublesome than the Father Emperor. However, regarding today¡¯s events, he and his ninth brother had been planning for years, believing their actions flawless. With Xia Zhu swallowing the gold, he won¡¯t live past an hour, and once dead, there would be no evidence. ¡°Just as you wish, let¡¯s go to the Ancestral Affairs Office.¡± To Dongfang Li, once Feng Bailing arrived at the Ancestral Affairs Office, she would just be a typical woman; weeping, causing a scene, or threatening suicide. That person had no patience for women, and Feng Bailing was surely doomed this time. Half an hour later, several horse carriages stopped in front of the Ancestral Affairs Office. As had always been throughout the dynasties, the Ancestral Affairs Office was located near the Imperial Palace, bordered by the six ministries, with its own government office, presided over by the Order Keeper for daily royal-related affairs. Feng Bailing had never been to the Ancestral Affairs Office and did not know who the current Order Keeper was. All she heard was that the Order Keeper was a formidable character, with many cases the Emperor couldn¡¯t solve being efficiently handled there. Dongfang Li¡¯s horse carriage arrived at the Ancestral Affairs Office first. Stepping out of the carriage, he stood with his hands behind him, the picture of aloof pride. Vermilion walls with black eaves, snow piled up on the walls, and a plum forest planted by the wall. The entrance to the Ancestral Affairs Office was desolate, the main gates tightly shut. ¡°It¡¯s broad daylight, and there¡¯s not a soul to be seen. Someone, knock on the doors.¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s mother was Noble Princess Consort Xiao, held in high favor among the Princes, and nowadays, with the Crown Prince being in such a state, many people in court and in the public viewed him as the next Crown Prince. Though the Ancestral Affairs Office¡¯s person was celebrated for military achievements, he was after all just a subject of the imperial family, and Dongfang Li did not take him seriously. A rapid knock on the door ensued, but with no answer forthcoming, two guards pushed the doors open to enter. Barely setting foot inside, two thuds sounded, and the two guards were sent flying out like kites with broken strings, tumbling beside the horse carriage. Dongfang Li took a hard look and immediately felt a storm churn in his stomach, his legs going weak. Two guards lay in the snow ¨C one with a severed right hand, the other with a bloody mouth and a bitten-off tongue ¨C their blood staining the white plum trees a shocking crimson. ¡°Where did these wild dogs come from barking so madly.¡± That voice was piercingly cold; when it fell on one¡¯s ears, it felt even chillier than the northern wind. Having just alighted from the horse carriage, Feng Bailing¡¯s feelings were complex upon hearing the voice. Inside the Ancestral Affairs Office, a man in ink-colored brocade clothing stepped forward slowly, his presence as imposing as that of a hawk surveying its surroundings. The current Order Keeper of the Ancestral Affairs Office was none other than Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince. ¡°Dugu Wu, you¡¯ve got some nerve, injuring the royal guards!¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s face paled; it was unclear whether he was enraged or frightened. ¡°Dongfang Li, did your horse carriage leave the city this afternoon?¡± Dugu Wu did not even glance at Dongfang Li, asking indifferently. ¡°Yes... so what if it did. It¡¯s none of your business, you killed my guards, and I will report this to the Father Emperor.¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s carriage had left the city to rendezvous with Xia Zhu; little did he know that Xia Zhu would botch the job and get injured. ¡°Seventh Prince, weapons are not allowed inside the Ancestral Affairs Office, your men have crossed the line.¡± Feng Wan followed closely by Dugu Wu¡¯s side, ¡°kindly¡± reminding him. To himself, Feng Wan thought: What a fool to walk into the jaws of death. My lord is currently investigating the Xingxiu Sect¡¯s assassination attempt on him, and the Seventh Prince¡¯s carriage just happened to pass by then, and within were a few bodies with a token from the Seventh Prince Mansion. Dongfang Li was caught between rage and restraint, and reluctantly called the Feng Mansion¡¯s family to come inside. Feng Xiangxue, supported by a maid, stepped down from the carriage; the two injured guards had already been taken away, leaving behind two pools of blood. ¡°Sister, you see, the Order Keeper is cruel; if you refuse to confess, the Ancestral Affairs Office¡¯s punishment would harm your reputation, and that of the Princess¡¯ Mansion even more.¡± Feng Xiangxue whispered gently to warn Feng Bailing. This Order Keeper had just recently beheaded two royal relatives for the mere offense of drunkenly causing a disturbance near the Ancestral Affairs Office, disturbing his peace. Feng Bailing, as if hearing nothing, ignored the bloodstains and walked into the Ancestral Affairs Office. Feng Xiangxue clenched her teeth and followed. ¡°Stop there, a wild lass from the countryside who has not been on the Royal Jade Disc, you have no right to enter the Ancestral Affairs Office.¡± Without turning her head, Feng Bailing sharply rebuked. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face instantly turned as pale as death. Although she was the beloved adopted daughter of Feng Zhanlian and lived in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she was not related by blood to the princess and thus was not allowed on the Jade Dishware. This had always been a thorn in her heart. Feng Xiangxue began to cry in grievance. ¡°Xiangxue, don¡¯t mind her. Xia Zhu is in a bad state now. Murder requires atonement with one¡¯s life; she is undoubtedly doomed this time.¡± With a few soothing words, Dongfang Li entered the Ancestral Affairs Office with Feng Zhanlian. ¡°Isn¡¯t that the ¡®Delusional Girl¡¯?¡± Feng Wan recognized Feng Bailing ¨C wasn¡¯t she the one lusting after the prince, like a toad wishing to eat swan meat? ¡°Dock a month¡¯s salary.¡± Dugu Wu mouthed, tossing out an order. Feng Wan¡¯s face fell; what had he done to deserve a salary deduction? His small savings weren¡¯t even enough to enjoy a tipple... and he was still a virgin. On the way back, Dugu Wu had already ascertained Feng Bailing¡¯s identity. An ugly woman indeed overestimates herself, thinking to tread on two boats at once. Though he never considered Feng Bailing a threat, Dugu Wu felt a strange irritation thinking that she had an engagement with someone else. ¡°Lord Order Keeper, I, Feng Bailing, have been wronged and have a claim to make. I accuse the Seventh Prince, Dongfang Li, of plotting against my servant Xia Zhu and of ruining my reputation. I implore you, my lord, to render justice.¡± With that, Feng Bailing stepped forward, kneeled to the ground with dignity, and bowed respectfully. Chapter 8 - 8 8 The Life-Saving Miracle Remedy ?Chapter 8: Chapter 8: The Life-Saving Miracle Remedy Chapter 8: Chapter 8: The Life-Saving Miracle Remedy Feng Bailing¡¯s gaze remained fixed, as if she never knew Dugu Wu. As Dongfang Li and Feng Zhanlian had just entered the government office, they heard Feng Bailing¡¯s accusation, and Dongfang Li even thought he had heard wrong and dug at his ears. ¡°You accuse me of murdering Xia Zhu, Feng Bailing, when it¡¯s clearly you who killed to silence her, yet you dare to spew lies with blood on your hands!¡± Dongfang Li had someone bring Xia Zhu in. ¡°Lord Order Keeper, I have both witnesses and physical evidence here, and I request you to review them.¡± ¡°Lord Order Keeper, it¡¯s my failure in teaching my daughter that led her to become so spoiled and bring about such a disaster.¡± Feng Zhanlian also pretended to dab at the corners of his eyes with his sleeve. This is an attempt to crush her to death, what a move by Feng Zhanlian. Feng Bailing, having been tempered on the battlefield, had a heart of steel; she sneered inwardly, watching Feng Zhanlian and Dongfang Li playing their parts in tandem. Feng Wan stepped forward, took the suicide note, and handed it to Dugu Wu to review. Scanning the suicide note, Dugu Wu saw its contents quite clearly. ¡°Feng Bailing disregards the virtues expected of a woman, births an illegitimate child, and commits murder to cover it up, truly a heinous crime.¡± Dongfang Li repeatedly cursed the term ¡°illegitimate child,¡± and Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes seemed about to burst into flames. ¡°You dare to glare...¡± Dongfang Li felt a tingle on his scalp as he met another chilling gaze. ¡°I will ask one question, and you will answer one. Otherwise, the fate of those two guards will be yours.¡± Dugu Wu found Dongfang Li increasingly displeasing to the eye. Dongfang Li¡¯s tongue felt cold and he awkwardly shut his mouth. ¡°Feng Bailing, with both witness and evidence present, do you have anything to say?¡± Dugu Wu had already had someone check Xia Zhu ¨C her lower abdomen was bloated beyond help, she was breathing more out than in. ¡°Reporting to Lord Order Keeper, I indeed have something to say. First, Xia Zhu is illiterate.¡± Feng Bailing remembered clearly that she herself was not fond of reading and barely recognized a few characters, and to please her, Xia Zhu didn¡¯t enjoy studying either. Chun Liu, however, had learned some characters. Let alone writing an entire letter, even a plain note would be beyond her. ¡°Xia Zhu is close to death, you can say whatever you wish. She grew up with you from childhood, yet you cruelly murdered her, truly heartless as a viper.¡± Dongfang Li was initially startled, but he quickly insisted that Feng Bailing was lying. ¡°Seventh Prince, I haven¡¯t finished speaking. I say Xia Zhu is illiterate, but of course, that does not count. It only counts when she herself says it.¡± After speaking, Feng Bailing bowed to Dugu Wu. ¡°Lord Order Keeper, I earnestly request you to prepare a bucket of fresh cow¡¯s milk. With it, I will naturally prove that Xia Zhu is illiterate.¡± Dugu Wu was somewhat surprised; he had thought Feng Bailing would beg for mercy out of fear, but this woman did not, which was interesting. Just so, Dugu Wu also wanted Dongfang Li to suffer a bit. He ordered his men, and soon, two Government Officials came back carrying a large bucket of fresh cow¡¯s milk. ¡°Whoever has the new scabbard, you there, come and lend a hand.¡± Feng Bailing gestured to Feng Wan to come over. Feng Wan, alert, subconsciously protected his scabbard; it was new, and he couldn¡¯t afford to break it, else he¡¯d have to compensate with his next month¡¯s salary. That Delusional Girl was really tricky. ¡°Help me hold her; I¡¯ll feed her the cow¡¯s milk.¡± Although he didn¡¯t understand Feng Bailing¡¯s intent, Feng Wan still helped Xia Zhu up. Feng Bailing pried open Xia Zhu¡¯s mouth and fed her the cow¡¯s milk. Half a bucket of milk was quickly fed to her. Dongfang Li and Feng Zhanlian watched from the side, totally clueless about what Feng Bailing was up to. Xia Zhu¡¯s abdomen had become round from the milk, and at this moment, a rumbling sound came from her stomach. Xia Zhu, who had been unconscious for a while, showed reactions. She opened her mouth and began to vomit. Dongfang Li could hardly keep himself stable. A quarter of an hour later, Xia Zhu¡¯s complexion improved, and she vomited out the gold that had been swallowed into her stomach. She slowly awakened, first looking at Feng Bailing, then at Dongfang Li, frightened out of her wits. She didn¡¯t find Feng Xiaoli, and didn¡¯t dare return to Yizhuang, but on the way she met the Seventh Prince who came to meet her; when he learned that she had not accomplished her task, he turned on her on the spot and forced her to swallow a golden ring. ¡°Xia Zhu, you have nothing to fear. With me here, no one will harm you. Will you tell Lord Order Keeper, was it Feng Bailing who made you swallow the gold, to murder you and seal your lips?¡± Dongfang Li took a step forward, forcing a smile as he fixed his gaze on Xia Zhu. ¡°The servant...¡± Xia Zhu stuttered. ¡°Xia Zhu, rest assured, the Seventh Prince and I are here, no one dares to make things difficult for you.¡± Feng Zhanlian also wore a pleasant face, but his words made Xia Zhu even more afraid. She couldn¡¯t speak, otherwise both the master and the Seventh Prince would not let her off. ¡°Seventh Prince, do you recognize this item?¡± Feng Bailing sauntered to one side, not minding the dirt and stench, she rummaged for a while, and found a golden ring in the vomit. Seeing that ring, Dongfang Li¡¯s face was a sight to behold. ¡°I remember that the Seventh Prince once wore a ring just like this one, even with your name on it. How is it that this ring from the Seventh Prince¡¯s hand ended up in the belly of my maid?¡± Feng Bailing smiled faintly, her smile seemingly harmless. Her remarks appeared to be a query to Dongfang Li, but her gaze was focused on Xia Zhu. That gaze was cold and bone-chilling, like a ferocious beast with gaping jaws, ready to devour its prey at any moment. Xia Zhu shivered. In the blink of an eye, countless thoughts flashed through her mind. The Miss has changed, become frighteningly terrible. Everything at Yizhuang, and that coachman who was burned to death. Miss was dead then alive, and she herself nearly died only to be saved. Falling into the hands of the Seventh Prince or the master, she would die. But in the Miss¡¯s hands, she couldn¡¯t die even if she wanted to! Xia Zhu broke down, kowtowing to Dugu Wu, pleading for mercy. ¡°My lord, my lord save me. I was forced, it was the Seventh Prince who threatened me, made me spy on my Miss. It was the master and the second Miss who made me...¡± ¡°Bitch!¡± Dongfang Li lifted his foot, and a sharp dagger suddenly appeared at the tip of his boot, stabbing into Xia Zhu¡¯s heart. The dagger was extremely sharp, and with a miserable scream, Xia Zhu fell into a pool of blood. The hall was dead silent. Feng Bailing frowned, glancing at Dugu Wu who remained calm and collected, showing no intent to intervene. Xia Zhu had to die. No matter Dugu¡¯s mistake, he was still a Prince; if the affair were exposed, it would tarnish the Royal Family¡¯s reputation. ¡°What a misfortune for our family, to have entertained Lord Order Keeper and the Seventh Prince with such a farce. It seems this was all just one big misunderstanding, all due to this wretched servant¡¯s machinations. Thank you, Seventh Prince, for your timely intervention, helping the Princess¡¯ Mansion to clean house.¡± Feng Zhanlian breathed a sigh of relief, apologizing to Dongfang Li and Dugu Wu. ¡°Having dealt with Xia Zhu, how should the Prince be dealt with? You¡¯ve framed me without discernment of truth, a Prince who transgresses the law should be punished the same as a commoner.¡± Feng Bailing toyed with the golden ring in her hand. ¡°Feng Bailing, don¡¯t push your luck. I am the prestigious Seventh Prince of Great Chu, do you truly expect me to apologize to you?¡± Dongfang Li grew furious with shame and anger. ¡°The Seventh Prince knows what¡¯s right...¡± Dugu Wu pondered for a moment. ¡°Lord Order Keeper sees clearly!¡± Dongfang Li was quietly elated; Dugu Wu truly still feared him as the Seventh Prince. ¡°A death penalty can be spared, but not the punishment for living sins, I have always been just in my dealings. Why doesn¡¯t the Seventh Prince also swallow a golden ring once, and we shall act as today¡¯s matter never happened.¡± In Dugu Wu¡¯s heterochromatic eyes, a hint of mockery flashed. Chapter 9 - 9 9 The Humiliating Letter of Divorce ?Chapter 9: Chapter 9: The Humiliating Letter of Divorce Chapter 9: Chapter 9: The Humiliating Letter of Divorce Swallow! Gold! Dongfang Li was completely taken aback. ¡°Lord Order Keeper, the Seventh Prince¡¯s body is worth more than its weight in gold.¡± Beside him, Feng Bailing sighed softly and spoke in a ghostly tone. ¡°Right, well said. Bailing, I knew it, you wouldn¡¯t bear to see me suffer. All because that wretched girl framed you, I have wronged you. Rest assured, from now on, I will treat you well.¡± Dongfang Li took a deep breath, thinking that Feng Bailing was possessed and had changed drastically. Now it seemed that her previous behavior was all about catching by letting loose. She still had deep-rooted feelings for him, indeed. As long as he got the golden ring back from her, everything would be negotiable. Dongfang Li gazed at Feng Bailing with affection, only to see ripples spreading across the calm autumn waters of her eyes. He had known Feng Bailing for many years but had never really looked at her face, solely because Feng Bailing had been fat and ugly since childhood. Any further glance would have sullied his eyes. But today, her eyes gave him the illusion that a single glance could suck away his soul and spirit. Dugu Wu frowned. The next moment, Feng Bailing raised her hand, supporting Dongfang Li¡¯s chin with her right hand and with a twist, her left hand stuffed the golden ring into his mouth. Gulp¡ªThe golden ring slid down Dongfang Li¡¯s throat. ¡°The Seventh Prince¡¯s body is worth more than its weight in gold; how can we allow you to swallow gold yourself, let me take the liberty to assist you.¡± Feng Bailing stepped aside, saying with a smiling gaze. The golden ring was stuck in Dongfang Li¡¯s throat; his face turned beet red, he gagged and retched, exhausting himself to the brink of death, yet the ring did not come out. ¡°Seventh Prince! Someone come, quick! The Seventh Prince has swallowed gold.¡± Feng Zhanlian was also stunned. ¡°Cow¡¯s milk, quick... give it to me.¡± Dongfang Li lay atop the half-barrel of cow¡¯s milk, stuck out his buttocks, and began to chug it down greedily. Dugu Wu¡¯s lips were even tighter. Feng Wan¡¯s shoulders shivered uncontrollably as if he was having a fit; he decided to hold the Delusional Girl in higher esteem! Feng Bailing tucked away her smile, curtsied to Dugu Wu and said crisply. ¡°Lord Order Keeper, I have another request. I had an engagement with the Seventh Prince, yet he ruined my reputation and harmed my servants. Those who become husband and wife are bound by fate from three past lifetimes, meant to be paired in this life. If the bond is not right, they will only become enemies. This humble girl only asks to dissolve the engagement, so we part ways amicably, both finding happiness.¡± (This passage refers to Dunhuang¡¯s Letters of Divorce) To part ways amicably, both finding happiness. The girl¡¯s voice was pleasant and emphatic, reverberating through every corner of the hall. Having said this, she presented a divorce letter that had already been prepared. Divorce? He, the grand Seventh Prince, was being given a divorce. Dongfang Li, having drunk a belly full of cow¡¯s milk, swollen like a ball, was dazed but heard only two words clearly. ¡°Feng Bailing, you dare to divorce! You harlot, who else in Chu City would dare to marry you besides myself!¡± He raged at Feng Bailing, disregarding the golden ring still in his stomach. Dugu Wu felt that the Feng Bailing before his eyes was somewhat more pleasing to look at now. ¡°Reporting to Lord Order Keeper, this marriage cannot be dissolved. Matters of marriage are decided by the commands of the parents and the words of the matchmaker. Their union was bestowed by the Emperor; it cannot be so easily dissolved.¡± Feng Zhanlian had finally come back to his senses. Chaos! Everything was in chaos! The Princess was not dead, Feng Bailing had not been expelled from the mansion, and the secret edict was still missing. Under such circumstances, how could this marriage be dissolved? ¡°If the Seventh Prince even resorts to slurs like ¡®harlot,¡¯ and if Lord Order Keeper does not stand up for this humble girl, then I shall throw myself to death here in this court.¡± Feng Bailing made a move, as if to crash into the wall. Crash and die, then see who can treat your illness! Feng Bailing glanced at Dugu Wu. Dugu Wu¡¯s palm rested on his knee, his slender fingers lightly tapping on his knee cap, for so far, his legs had always been able to walk properly. ¡°Miss Feng, though a frail woman, has considerable spirit. What the Seventh Prince did lacks the dignity of the Royal Family. I will report this to the Emperor. Feng Wan, transcribe a letter of marriage annulment so both parties can sign and seal it. From now on, they shall go their separate ways and each find their own happiness.¡± As Feng Wan copied the text, he wondered if his master¡¯s conscience didn¡¯t hurt, how weak is she supposed to be? ¡°Dugu... gulp, gulp.¡± Dongfang Li was so anxious he started hopping around, but as soon as he moved, he couldn¡¯t stop his stomach from hurting, and out of fear, he quickly gulped down a few mouthfuls of cow¡¯s milk. Two letters of marriage annulment were signed under the cold, watching eyes of Dugu Wu. Feng Bailing gave Dugu Wu a bow, straightened her back, and strode out of the Ancestral Affairs Office. Outside the Ancestral Affairs Office, Feng Xiangxue stood on her tiptoes in anticipation, hoping to hear good news¡ªpreferably seeing Feng Bailing bloodied and dragged out. But after a long wait, she saw Feng Bailing emerge alone. ¡°Sister Ling, are you alright?¡± Feng Xiangxue was utterly astonished. Looking at Feng Bailing, it wasn¡¯t just that she wasn¡¯t bloodied and bruised¡ªeven her hair was not out of place. ¡°How can I be okay, Lord Order Keeper has decreed the annulment of my marriage with the Seventh Prince.¡± Feng Bailing forced a strained smile. That smile, seen by Feng Xiangxue, was filled with bitterness. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s heart leaped with joy, yet she put on a saddened expression. Behind her, Feng Zhanlian supported Dongfang Li as they walked out. Feng Xiangxue hurriedly greeted them. ¡°Seventh Prince, what¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Feng Xiangxue saw Dongfang Li¡¯s face pale as paper, his steps faltering. Could it be that the Seventh Prince was subjected to harsh punishment? Dongfang Li pointed at Feng Bailing¡¯s retreating figure. ¡°She...¡± Just as he started to speak, his stomach churned violently, and with a retch, he vomited, splattering everything over Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face and body. Behind her, Feng Xiangxue¡¯s shrieks sounded oddly pleasant. The snowy wind hit their faces and lifted Feng Bailing¡¯s black hair. Her eyes were filled with coldness. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter if you scheme against me, but you should never have targeted my child and family. This is just the beginning. I have one rule in life¡ªif someone offends me, I shall cut them down to the root.¡± With a flick of her hand, she tore the annulment letter into shreds, scattering it in the snow before she boarded the Feng Mansion¡¯s horse carriage. Shortly after Feng Bailing¡¯s carriage had left the Ancestral Affairs Office, another scene unfolded within the Feng Mansion. The winter wind was bitterly cold. In the inner courtyard of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, in a side room with tightly closed doors and windows, fire stoves were lit in all four corners. The air was so stale it seemed to solidify, the maids were sweating profusely, but none dared to open the doors or windows on their initiative. A nanny knelt by the bedside, pleading earnestly. ¡°Princess, I beg of you, Doctor Yang cautioned that you must not leave the room.¡± Princess Yong¡¯an Dongfang Lianhua struggled to sit up. She was not yet forty but had languished on a sickbed for years. Her previously pretty face had wilted like a flower deprived of its color. Dark circles lined her sunken eyes, and what drew the eye most were her lips, not the normal rich red but a faint purple hue. She gasped for air, feeling as if her chest was being ripped apart, suffering unbearable pain, every breath a struggle. ¡°Why didn¡¯t anyone tell me that Ah Ling had come back?¡± Scarcely had she spoken when she struggled to her feet, only to feel suffocated after just a few steps, her strength failing her, and she collapsed... Chapter 10 - 10 10 Yandere Princess Mother (Part 1) ?Chapter 10: Chapter 10 Yandere Princess Mother (Part 1) Chapter 10: Chapter 10 Yandere Princess Mother (Part 1) Beside the horse carriage of Feng Mansion, the coachman was trembling with fear. ¡°Miss, how should we deal with Xia Zhu¡¯s body?¡± When Xia Zhu was thrown out by the Ancestral Affairs Office, she was wrapped in a straw mat, her wounds deep and bleeding incessantly, appearing lifeless. ¡°She¡¯s not dead yet, bring her back.¡± Feng Bailing noticed that Xia Zhu still had a faint breath, the knife had somehow deviated by half an inch, avoiding the vital parts. Feng Bailing seemed thoughtful. From a young age, the youth Dongfang Li had always sweet-talked her. He conspired with Feng Xiangxue, colluded with Feng Zhan Tang, bribed Xia Zhu, scheming her childbirth, and arranged for the annulment of her engagement in a seamless plan, trapping her like a spider web. Could Dongfang Li, a simple-minded man, really devise all this? Feng Bailing decided to take Xia Zhu back to the mansion first, maybe she could get some information from her. Outside the Ancestral Affairs Office, Dongfang Li retched violently until all the bile was out, only then did he spit out the golden ring. He looked disheveled, dizzy in the eyes, nowhere near his usual handsome and poised appearance, which frightened Feng Zhanlian and his daughter into quickly sending him back to the Qian Residence. The Qian Residence is where the Princes of Great Chu stayed, Emperor Yongye had nine sons, excluding the Eldest Prince and the Crown Prince who were already married, the unmarried Princes lived there. The Seventh Prince¡¯s horse carriage rumbled along and reached the front of the Qian Residence. The Qian Residence consists of multiple courtyards, large and small, arranged in an orderly manner in a ¡°return¡± shape. As the favored son of Noble Princess Consort Xiao, the Seventh Prince resided on the eastern side of the Qian Residence. ¡°Your Highness, do not worry, I will go back and discipline that unfilial daughter and have her come apologize to you.¡± In the carriage, Feng Zhanlian carefully apologized. ¡°Find that secret decree as soon as possible, as for Feng Bailing, do not touch her. I¡¯ll deal with her myself.¡± Dongfang Li gritted his teeth, having practiced martial arts since childhood, his physical foundation was solid and he had largely recovered. The thought of Feng Bailing made his teeth itch. Feng Xiangxue listened, feeling slightly uncomfortable. Why did the Seventh Prince seem different today? Usually, he wouldn¡¯t even want to mention Feng Bailing. Feng Xiangxue stole a glance at Dongfang Li, just at that moment, she saw a flash of dark light at his forehead. She gasped softly. ¡°Your Highness, is that the rumored Wuji Seal on your forehead?¡± The light flashed and disappeared. Dongfang Li showed a smug expression. ¡°I have been concentrating on Qi recently to prepare for a breakthrough. If it weren¡¯t for the fear of leaking energy, I would have already taken action against Feng Bailing. Just a few more days, once my Gathering Seal succeeds, I will become an elite among martial artists. Even Dugu Wu will not be my match sooner or later.¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s face was full of pride. With literary accreditations as Wenhua Seal and martial accolades as Wuji Seal, even for the Royal Family, becoming the scholarly champion or Martial Arts Leader is a matter of pride. Hearing this, father and daughter complimented him further, then joyfully departed. Dongfang Li got off the carriage, did not return to his own east courtyard, but headed towards the northwest. Unlike the spacious and bright east courtyard, the Northwest Courtyard was a secluded little yard, desolate and without servants, not resembling a Prince¡¯s residence. The snow in the Northwest Courtyard was swept clean, revealing pale grey stones, with a man standing at the end of the yard. There was a cluster of bamboo and several lake stones, which also served as the only decoration in the courtyard. The man was tall and slender, not wearing a crown, his light brown hair loosely spreading out, his silhouette in the north wind appeared somewhat desolate. Beneath a brown cloak with golden patterns, his skin was so pale it was nearly translucent, under his light brown lashes, a pair of narrow, charming fox eyes, both veiled with a faint grey mist, with a grain-sized crimson blood mole beneath his right eye. Hearing footsteps, his ears twitched slightly as he turned around. ¡°Brother, your steps are restless, and your breath is turbid. What¡¯s wrong, didn¡¯t the cancellation of the engagement go through?¡± The man smiled faintly. In doing so, his sickly face bizarrely gained an unusual beauty that would captivate anyone who saw it, regardless of gender. ¡°Ninth, you guessed wrong this time.¡± Dongfang Li explained the ins and outs of the matter and recited the letter of engagement cancellation. ¡°Part two ways, each find joy.¡± Hearing the last few words, Dongfang Mosheng, the Ninth Prince of Great Chu, was startled. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t had someone watching her all the time, I would really suspect that this woman was possessed by Lord Wen Hua. This letter of cancellation is well-written indeed. Feng Bailing is not to be feared. Our plan has been disrupted, what should we do next?¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s head ached from thinking. ¡°Brother, we still have two backup plans. Doctor Yang sent word that Princess Yong¡¯an will not survive tonight, and the secret edict is still in our possession.¡± Dongfang Mosheng smiled, his birthmark at the corner of his eye blooming like a wild rose, vivacious and dripping with allure. When Feng Bailing returned to Feng Mansion, the servants were stretching their necks eagerly expecting a spectacle. The servants had seen their young lady being sent to Ancestral Affairs Office by the Seventh Prince and all were convinced that the young lady would not come out unscathed. Instead, they saw Xia Zhu covered in blood, making all the servants shiver. ¡°This is what happens to those who betray their master. Ancestral Affairs Office has approved my divorce with the Seventh Prince. Starting tomorrow, I will take charge of the affairs of Princess¡¯ Mansion. If anyone dares betray me, they¡¯ll end up like Xia Zhu.¡± Feng Bailing spoke coldly, ordering people to throw Xia Zhu into the woodshed, forbidding any water or medical treatment. The servants outwardly expressed respect but inwardly scorned it, especially the old servants of Zhanlian and the confidants of Xiangxue. ¡°I will go see my mother.¡± As the day wore on, Feng Bailing remembered she had not yet paid her respects to her mother, Princess Yong¡¯an, throughout the day. Although Feng Bailing was the eldest daughter of Princess Yong¡¯an, she had been raised by Aunt Xue since childhood. Aunt Xue had a sweet mouth and knew how to pamper children. She was always respondent to Feng Bailing¡¯s needs, unlike Princess Yong¡¯an who came from the Imperial Palace and was rigid and stern, rarely smiling, and very strict with the siblings. Over time, both siblings felt distant from Princess Yong¡¯an. Uncle Wang, the housekeeper, did not expect Feng Bailing to suddenly want to visit the princess. When Feng Bailing arrived at the inner courtyard of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she discovered Princess Yong¡¯an¡¯s quarters had been moved to the west wing. ¡°Mother is ill, who allowed her to be moved to the chilly west wing?¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s brow furrowed even tighter. ¡°Miss, Madam said that the princess enjoys tranquility. The west side is quieter and more suitable for recovery, so they moved her from the original east wing to make room for the second master¡¯s family. Coincidentally, the second master¡¯s family and Aunt Xue have accompanied Madam to pay tribute outside the city.¡± As Uncle Wang spoke, he led Feng Bailing towards the west wing. Inside the west wing, a stove was still burning, making it stuffy and hot, and the air was damp with the smell of herbal medicine. Seeing Feng Bailing enter, the nannies and maids in the room all bowed their heads and waited silently at the side. Feng Bailing noticed that several nannies and maids had swollen, red eyes. The sight of Dongfang Lianhua on the sickbed made Feng Bailing¡¯s heart shake. ¡°Nanny Gui, it¡¯s time for the princess to take her medicine.¡± Uncle Wang instructed the attending nanny to step forward and administer the medicine. As the medicine was brought over, Feng Bailing raised a hand and with a slap, overturned the medicine bowl. Chapter 11 - 11 11 The Sickly Sweet Princess Mother (Part 2) ?Chapter 11: Chapter 11: The Sickly Sweet Princess Mother (Part 2) Chapter 11: Chapter 11: The Sickly Sweet Princess Mother (Part 2) With a clang, the porcelain bowl shattered into pieces, and the thick medicine spilled all over the floor. The people in the room were all startled. ¡°Miss, this medicinal soup is very precious. It was personally prepared by Doctor Yang. How could you carelessly spill it? If you delay taking the medicine and the Princess suffers any mishaps, how am I to explain this to the master?¡± The steward Uncle Wang silently cursed Feng Bailing as a wasteful daughter. ¡°I ask you, what illness does my mother have, and what medicine did Doctor Yang prepare?¡± The look in Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes, cold and piercing, sent a chill to the soles of Uncle Wang¡¯s feet, and he couldn¡¯t help but think of Xia Zhu, who had been left in the firewood shed. ¡°Replying to Miss, the Princess has tuberculosis, which she has suffered from for several years. The medicine Doctor Yang prepared are all good treatments for tuberculosis, including pearl, white grass, Fritillaria, and others.¡± Uncle Wang listed a few of the commonly used medicines for the Princess, sneering inwardly at Feng Bailing, who could not even fully recognize the characters, yet was asking about the prescription. Listening, Feng Bailing heard Uncle Wang reporting all medicines for treating tuberculosis, but in the spilled medicinal soup, there was also the added ingredient of Guizhi. Guizhi is a kind of herb, its tuber contains a strong poison; if taken properly, it can relieve pain, indeed it could alleviate the daily pains of Princess Yong¡¯an. However, if a large dose is taken at once, or if it is used over a long period, it can cause fatal coughing up of blood, similar to the symptoms of tuberculosis. ¡°If my mother has tuberculosis, given her temperament, why would she insist on being served by so many people? Tuberculosis is a contagious disease.¡± Feng Bailing glanced at the nannies and maidservants in the room. Tuberculosis was infectious, and in that era, nine out of ten tuberculosis patients died; even the one who survived was left debilitated. Princess Yong¡¯an, with her cold exterior but soft heart, would certainly not let so many people die with her. Initially, after Princess Yong¡¯an was infuriated to death by her, all the nannies and maidservants in the room were executed by Feng Zhanlian on the pretext of catching the disease¡ªseven or eight people in the room, not one survived. Seven or eight lives, Feng Zhanlian and Uncle Wang, these two beasts, actually did not even blink an eye while killing them. ¡°Nanny Gui, and the rest were the Princess¡¯ old servants, who volunteered to serve the Princess with their lives. Besides, Doctor Yang prescribed tonics for everyone in the mansion to take daily, which keeps us all in robust health,¡± replied Uncle Wang fluently. The same response he had already given several times over in the palace. Nanny Gui and the others bowed their heads, a mixture of sorrow and fear in their hearts. The Princess was near her end, and they were both grieving and frightened. They also knew, once the Princess died, their own time would come. But what method could they have? The Prince Consort controlled all their families; if they gossiped, whole families would die. ¡°Well said on being in robust health. Nanny Gui, go and bring the rest of the medicine from the kitchen, pour it into Uncle Wang, so that he may live a long and healthy life.¡± Feng Bailing nodded to Nanny Gui. Nanny Gui was an old palace maid who had come with Princess Yong¡¯an as part of her dowry. She had served the late Emperor back in the palace, a person adept at reading situations, and she immediately went off to the kitchen. In just a moment, the medicine jar was brought over. Uncle Wang¡¯s old face changed, and he tried to keep calm. ¡°Miss is quite the joker. This old servant is not sick, there is no need to take medicine.¡± ¡°Sick or not, that¡¯s not for you to say. Pour it down!¡± Feng Bailing said just a sentence. Uncle Wang, panic-stricken, his old face sweating, tried to rush to the door to escape. Seven or eight nannies and maids from the west wing, who usually suffer Uncle Wang¡¯s bad temper, and some of whom have even been mistreated by the old wretch, all pitied the Princess who had been bedridden for years with nowhere to turn for help. Tonight, before one of them died, they managed to get their revenge, gritting their teeth, and surrounded him. Eight women against one old man, an entire jar of steaming medicinal soup was poured into Uncle Wang¡¯s belly. Uncle Wang was scalded to screams, and not long after the medicinal soup entered his stomach, his face turned blue, clutching at his throat and letting out nonsensical cries. Within a moment, his legs kicked out, and blood flowed from all orifices as he fell to the ground, breathless. Nanny Gui and the other maids were all terrified, their faces turning pale. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid; I¡¯ll take the fall if the sky comes down. You few, carry the body out and dump it at the mansion gate.¡± ¡°Nanny Gui, go to the storeroom and find two types of herbs, red sage and Angelica dahurica, the older the better.¡± Feng Bailing was methodically giving orders. At first, Nanny Gui and the others were frightful, but seeing Feng Bailing¡¯s fearless demeanor, they too began to feel a sense of security. Especially Nanny Gui, who, seeing Feng Bailing handling the prescriptions while checking on the Princess, felt a sliver of hope rise in her despairing heart. ¡°Late Emperor, please protect the Princess.¡± Nanny Gui wiped the corner of her eyes and hurriedly made her way to the storeroom. After everyone was gone, Feng Bailing then checked Princess Yong¡¯an¡¯s condition again, Nanny Gui said her mother had passed out after hearing she had been sent to the Ancestral Affairs Office by the Seventh Prince, it was probably out of fury. She took out the emergency kit. After examining her, Feng Bailing was more than 90 percent certain that her mother¡¯s illness was not tuberculosis at all, but pulmonary arterial hypertension. Fortunately, it was only the intermediate stages¡ªif the correct medicine was administered, it could be cured. From her memory, among the several bottles of medicine from last time, there was one for lowering blood pressure. Although it wasn¡¯t the most effective, it could still lower the blood pressure appropriately. Feng Bailing crushed a few antihypertensive tablets, mixed them with water, and fed them to Princess Yongle. Princess Yongle¡¯s lip color did indeed improve somewhat. It was now 7 p.m., and father and daughter Feng Zhanlian should be returning home. Utilizing this time, it was a good opportunity to check on Xia Zhu¡¯s condition in the woodshed. On the streets of Chu City, in the horse carriage of Feng Mansion, Feng Xiangxue thought about the day¡¯s events and felt dispirited. ¡°Daddy, don¡¯t you think sister has changed since she came back this time?¡± Feng Xiangxue had never been so humiliated in public before. In the past, it was always she who had outsmarted Feng Bailing. But today¡¯s Feng Bailing seemed completely transformed. ¡°What could be different, she¡¯s the same ugly and brainless person, having offended the Seventh Prince, how could she have good days ahead?¡± Feng Zhanlian was filled with resentment when it came to Feng Bailing. Like her mother, this misfortune of a daughter only blocks his prospects. Back then, to coerce him into marrying her, Princess Yong¡¯an had the late Emperor destroy his nearly completed Wenhua Seal¡ªthis vendetta, irreconcilable! ¡°Sister said I¡¯m claiming what¡¯s not mine, could it be she knows that we are actually your own flesh and blood.¡± Feng Xiangxue bit her lip, looking pitiful. Officially, Feng Xiangxue was Feng Zhanlian¡¯s adopted daughter, the posthumous daughter of Aunt Xue¡¯s ¡°late husband.¡± But in fact, Feng Zhanlian had a childhood sweetheart, Aunt Xue, back in his hometown when he became the top scorer. Aunt Xue was the daughter of a Scholar¡¯s family, already married, but she secretly got involved with the handsome Feng Zhanlian, and Feng Xiangxue was conceived before Feng Zhanlian went to the exams. After Feng Zhanlian received top honors, news reached home, and within a few days, Aunt Xue¡¯s short-lived husband died. After giving birth to twins, a boy and a girl, she took refuge in the Feng Mansion under the identity of Feng Zhanlian¡¯s maternal cousin. The Princess¡¯ Mansion was unaware, and Princess Yong¡¯an kindly took in the widowed and orphaned Aunt Xue... If it hadn¡¯t been for Feng Xiangxue deliberately revealing all this when Feng Bailing was expelled from the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Bailing would have been kept in the dark to her dying day. ¡°The people in the village who were in the know have all been dealt with; she has no heavenly power to know this. When we return to the mansion, I¡¯ll have her kneel down to apologize to you.¡± Feng Zhanlian waved his hand dismissively, and as he spoke, the horse carriage was about to arrive at Feng Mansion. Chapter 12 - 12 12 Jia Xiazhu ?Chapter 12: Chapter 12 Jia Xiazhu Chapter 12: Chapter 12 Jia Xiazhu Inside the woodshed of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, it was cold and damp. Pitch-black with no light, Xia Zhu was tossed aside like a piece of tattered cotton, her blood already dried. No one cared whether she was alive or dead. Squeak, squeak, squeak¡ª A grey-haired rat scurried out, drawn by the scent of blood, it approached her. Suddenly, a hand seized the rat with lightning speed. Xia Zhu opened her eyes, a cold light flickered within, and she snapped the rat¡¯s neck. Having not had a sip of rice water for a whole day and night, and severely injured, Xia Zhu stuffed the rat into her mouth and chewed it roughly a few times. The salty and metallic taste of fresh blood still lingered on her tongue, she licked her lips, now blood-stained like a blooming poppy, her eyes full of unsated desire. Hiss, a strong wind came from the dark. A hint of surprise flashed across Xia Zhu¡¯s eyes, but it was coupled with a trace of mockery. With a lift of her hand, without looking back, she caught the stealthy attack from behind. An odd knife was clamped between her thumb and middle finger. The door of the woodshed opened, and a woman stood at the doorway. ¡°You¡¯re not Xia Zhu.¡± Feng Bailing did not expect to see such a scene upon entering the woodshed. Truly magical¡ªit seemed that a person on the brink of death had come back to life. Utilizing the faint moonlight, Feng Bailing made out the stranger¡¯s skills; she was not Xia Zhu. ¡°Everyone says the legitimate eldest daughter of the Yong¡¯an Princess Mansion is both ugly and foolish. It seems the rumors were wrong¡ª you¡¯re just ugly, not foolish. Sadly, you¡¯ll soon turn into a corpse.¡± A devilish gleam shot through Xia Zhu¡¯s eyes; her fingers twitched slightly, and the scalpel in Feng Bailing¡¯s hand spun out a cold arc, ready to shoot back. In an instant, the other¡¯s face changed, her right hand feeling numb and powerless, the scalpel dropped to the ground. ¡°You used poison!¡± Xia Zhu¡¯s face turned pale, damn it, she usually used poison on others, but today she fell into the hands of an ugly monster. She struggled to rise, wanting to strangle that woman. ¡°Don¡¯t move rashly; right now, only your fingers should be numb. Move a bit, and you¡¯ll feel your entire hand go numb, and if you circulate your qi, your whole body will become numb, eventually turning into a puddle of blood.¡± Feng Bailing lied without batting an eye. On that scalpel, she had smeared anesthetic ointment. The numbness spread from his fingertips to his palm. He wouldn¡¯t really dissolve into a puddle of blood, would he? The person became panic-stricken upon hearing this; not to mention moving, even his breaths became considerably shallower. This woman was vicious! Seeing that she had bluffed the other party, Feng Bailing closed the door of the woodshed unhurriedly. In the encompassing darkness, two pairs of eyes with different expressions stared at each other. ¡°You... you realized long ago that I¡¯m not Xia Zhu?¡± The person¡¯s voice even changed, becoming deep and pleasant to the ear, clearly a man¡¯s voice. It was a mystery how he had managed to disguise himself as Xia Zhu in build and appearance. ¡°The location of the wound is wrong. Although Dongfang Li isn¡¯t very smart, he is very skilled. His stab hit Xia Zhu¡¯s vital spot, and she couldn¡¯t have survived. But your wound is three inches off. I didn¡¯t expose you because I wanted to see what you were up to by infiltrating the Princess¡¯ Mansion...¡± At that time, Feng Bailing was somewhat cautious, which is why she had the ¡®Xia Zhu¡¯ thrown into the woodshed first. Her words suddenly stopped. The effect of the anesthetic wouldn¡¯t last much longer. ¡°Or is it because the Seventh Prince is not giving up and sent you to kill me?¡± After Feng Bailing finished speaking, a glint flashed in Xia Zhu¡¯s eyes. ¡°What¡¯s with all this Ah Qi, Ah Ba; Lord Gong, I just have bad luck, ending up into your horse carriage and thus entering the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Otherwise, how could a high-rank martial artist from the Xingxiu Sect fall into the hands of someone as ugly and monstrous as you!¡± The man was so angry that his back teeth were itching. The poison was too strong. In addition to causing numbness, he also felt his body alternately hot and cold. To think that the Princess¡¯ Mansion had hidden such a master of poison, it was terrifying. ¡°Xingxiu Sect, huh? I better notify Dugu Wu.¡± Feng Bailing sudden realization hit her; this guy must be the leader of those who were chasing Dugu Wu, probably having fought to a stalemate with Dugu Wu, then being pursued and hiding in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. This guy also had some strategies, considering the whole Chu City, the last place Dugu Wu would come was the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°Wait... If you can help me keep this a secret, I will tell you a secret, a huge secret.¡± The man grew desperate, also fearful of the poison in his body, he didn¡¯t dare to move rashly. Feng Bailing kept walking without stopping, a killer left in the Princess¡¯ Mansion was undoubtedly a time bomb. She, as a person, didn¡¯t like to leave troubles for later. ¡°You have a son!¡± The man gritted his teeth. Feng Bailing stopped in her tracks, her voice remained calm, but her heart was stirring up a tempest. ¡°A son?¡± Feng Bailing felt as if her heart was gripped by a hand, breathing became somewhat difficult. The other person did want to explain clearly, but his consciousness was gradually blurring, and he collapsed forward, unconscious. Feng Bailing moved forward to check his breath and found his forehead burning hot. ¡°He¡¯s got a fever.¡± Feng Bailing lit the oil lamp in the firewood room, helplessly inspecting the man¡¯s injuries. This guy¡¯s injuries were only worse, not lighter, than those of Dugu Wu, and they were untreated, no wonder he pretended to be Xia Zhu to sneak in, his wounds were infected and resulted in a persistent high fever. After disinfecting his wounds with iodine and doing some basic treatment, she took out a piece of antipyretic medication, and while fetching the anti-inflammatory drug, Feng Bailing was slightly taken aback. There were only two pieces of anti-inflammatory drug left. She silently repeated the name of the drug several times, but the drugs in the medical kit did not multiply. In the past, the integrated emergency kit was very smart, it would automatically replenish the medication as long as the owner needed it, it seems that the Seventh Sense wasn¡¯t fully recovered yet. Feng Bailing left one piece and fed the other to ¡°Lord Gong.¡± In the moment she fed the medicine, Feng Bailing witnessed a bizarre scene. Due to the high fever, ¡°Xia Zhu¡¯s¡± face turned red, beads of sweat covered his forehead, and a fiery red ancient ¡°fire¡± character appeared at the brow, and after the mark appeared, several shallow wounds on the man¡¯s body began to heal slowly at a visible rate... ¡°Eldest Miss, the horse carriage of the master and the second young lady has already arrived at the mansion gate.¡± As Feng Bailing was surprised by the scene in front of her, she heard Nanny Gui¡¯s reminder from outside the firewood room. ¡°If the master asks, just say I¡¯ve gone to sleep in the west wing and no one is allowed to disturb me.¡± After giving a few words of instructions, Feng Bailing locked the firewood room and headed straight for the west wing. Inside the west wing, only a brazier was left, and the windows and doors were opened according to Feng Bailing¡¯s request. A ventilated environment would be more beneficial to the patient¡¯s recovery. Nanny Gui and the maids had laid out a soft couch for Feng Bailing to accompany Dongfang Lianhua. Nanny Gui was excited in her heart. Although the Eldest Miss had changed a lot this time she returned, she seemed to have improved her attitude towards the Princess significantly. Before sleeping, Feng Bailing checked on Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s condition again. The blood pressure had stabilized. ¡°It¡¯s just a pity that I can¡¯t use the blood pressure monitor in the Medical Cabin, otherwise I could check the blood pressure at any time.¡± Feng Bailing took out the Jade Pendant she had received from Dugu Wu and clutched it close to her chest, quickly falling asleep. The night deepened, and the Jade Pendant emitted a faint purple light from time to time. The purple glow, thread by thread, followed Feng Bailing¡¯s breath into her body... Chapter 13 - 13 13 There Are No Ugly Women in the World ?Chapter 13: Chapter 13 There Are No Ugly Women in the World Chapter 13: Chapter 13 There Are No Ugly Women in the World Late at night, Feng Bailing was half-asleep, half-awake on the soft couch. The words spoken by Jia Xiazhu were like bone-eating maggots, making her toss and turn, unable to sleep. She remembered the night she gave birth at the Other Manor. It was during labor that she almost lost her life to a premature birth and massive bleeding after eating the bird¡¯s nest sent by Feng Xiangxue; the person attending her birth was Xia Zhu... In a daze, it wasn¡¯t until the rooster crowed that Feng Bailing finally fell into a deep sleep. Feng Bailing was awakened by Nanny Gui, who had prepared a new batch of herbal medicine as ordered by Feng Bailing. Pulmonary arterial hypertension was no longer a difficult disease to treat in the 22nd century, but in this era, lacking medical equipment and specific medications, using traditional medicine was actually the most appropriate treatment method. ¡°There is no problem with the medicine; take it after meals three times a day. Also, go to the storeroom and get some Wild Ginseng. My mother has been ill for so long, her qi and blood are weak. To get out of bed, she must use ginseng to replenish qi and nourish blood.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s treatment plan was to stabilize the blood pressure first, then complement it with other medications to restore Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s health. Nanny Gui showed a troubled expression. ¡°Angelica dahurica and red sage are common herbs, which can be taken freely from the storeroom, but ginseng is a precious medicinal material, managed by Aunt Xue. Normally in the mansion, only the master, the second master, and the matriarch are allowed to use it.¡± Upon hearing this, Feng Bailing¡¯s eyebrows shot upward. ¡°My mother is the matriarch of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and even she requires approval to consume a few ginseng roots? Who established such a rule?¡± ¡°It was the matriarch. Miss, you¡¯ve been away from the mansion for several years, and the rules have changed. I, the old servant, am useless and have never been able to get the ginseng.¡± Nanny Gui¡¯s old face was filled with helplessness. She too felt pity for the frail Princess and wanted to brew ginseng tea, but each time she was dismissively sent away by the people in the storeroom with insincere excuses. The matriarch was the Prince Consort¡¯s biological mother. When the Prince Consort achieved success, the matriarch, disregarding the Princess¡¯ opposition, moved in with the second master¡¯s family to the Princess¡¯ Mansion and has never been on good terms with the Princess. In those years, Feng Bailing, not realizing the intricacies, always felt that the matriarch was elderly and had endured many hardships raising her two sons, so she would always subtly side with the matriarch, to the Princess¡¯s often chagrin. ¡°The rules of the mansion need to change.¡± Feng Bailing took the Coix seed water that Nanny Gui had the maid bring and moistened her throat. Given the matter involved the Feng Family¡¯s matriarch, it required careful long-term planning. ¡°The master sent people several times early in the morning, asking for the Miss to come over for questioning, probably about Uncle Wang¡¯s affair.¡± Nanny Gui said anxiously; with Uncle Wang dead, the nannies and maids in the west wing were also restless. ¡°All of you, keep what happened last night to yourselves.¡± Feng Bailing paid it no mind and dismissed everyone around her. Facing the copper mirror, she began performing a facial massage to drain the lymphatic system. After a full round of massage, the swelling on her face had subsided significantly, and even her eyes looked larger. Feng Bailing remembered that as a child, she was beloved by all with her appearance resembling Dongfang Lianhua: fair skin, beautifully shaped facial features, but it was a pity that later she developed acne and put on weight¡ªshe didn¡¯t know how she would look as an adult. ¡°Indeed, there are no ugly women in the world, only lazy ones.¡± From a doctor¡¯s perspective, if this face issue was just caused by hormonal imbalances, it wouldn¡¯t be difficult to treat. Avoiding sweets and spicy foods, getting plenty of sleep, drinking more water, and exercising. After a night of sleep, the bumps on her face had reduced a lot. With a bit of glycolic acid exfoliation, she could return to her original appearance within a month. Feng Bailing remembered that the second layer of the comprehensive emergency medical box used to contain her cosmetics. In the harsh climates of battlefields, her skincare products were specially made and highly effective. Casually opening the emergency box, she recalled that the Seventh Sense had not yet fully recovered, perhaps preventing her from opening the second layer. As she opened the first layer, Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes lit up. Inside the box were several vials of medicine, a new first aid kit, two pieces of chocolate... What surprised her most was the addition of a portable blood pressure monitor. She then attempted to open the second layer, and it opened. Inside were her usual cosmetics and skincare products, including the glycolic acid meant for exfoliation. But when she tried to open the third layer, it wouldn¡¯t budge. ¡°The Jade Pendant is still somewhat useful.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s face was filled with joy; it must be because of Dugu Wu¡¯s Jade Pendant. The third layer, unlike the first and second layers, has little immediate use, she will wait until her seventh sense is fully restored before activating it. Feng Bailing busily applied it to her own face. In Feng Mansion¡¯s Flower Hall, Feng Zhanlian was fuming with rage. ¡°How preposterous! I have called her several times. That disobedient daughter is defying heaven, completely disregarding me, her father!¡± That night, both father and daughter, Feng Zhanlian and Feng Xiangxue, had a difficult time, as seen by Feng Zhanlian¡¯s two huge bags under his eyes. Feng Xiangxue also had two dark circles under her eyes. Anyone who trips at their doorstep and ends up sitting on a corpse would lose sleep. Both members of the Feng Family were haunted by the image of Uncle Wang¡¯s face, with blood streaming from all seven orifices. ¡°Who provoked such a rage in you so early in the morning, Father?¡± Feng Bailing sashayed in, dressed in a maple-leaf red brocade skirt with a water-blue scarf over her face, followed by Nanny Gui. Feng Xiangxue stood up and curtsied, gently dabbing the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. ¡°Sister Ling, Uncle Wang is dead.¡± ¡°Dead, how did he die?¡± Feng Bailing feigned surprise. ¡°Who said he¡¯s dead? Someone saw him go to the west wing, not long after, he died.¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s temples throbbed with anger, knowing that Uncle Wang was brought from his hometown, his childhood page, and a trusted confidante. ¡°There is such a matter. Uncle Wang was here to deliver medicine and mentioned his legs hurting before leaving early. Father, as you know, his leg pain in winter is an old issue. Out of respect for an elder in the house, I didn¡¯t insist he stay.¡± Feng Bailing responded smoothly. ¡°Uncle Wang died of poisoning.¡± Feng Xiangxue mourned. ¡°Was it the poison of Guizhi that killed him?¡± Feng Bailing gasped. ¡°Indeed, it was you! You wicked daughter, you poisoned Uncle Wang!¡± Feng Zhanlian slammed his hand on the table and stood up. ¡°Father, what are you saying? On regular days, I cannot even bear to kill a chicken, let alone a person. Last night, I smelled the scent of Cao Wu Wine on Uncle Wang. When I was at the Other Manor, I heard of someone dying from drinking such wine. I warned him last night, but he did not listen.¡± Feng Bailing shook her head and sighed. Cao Wu Wine? Feng Zhanlian and his daughter were stunned, and Feng Xiangxue hurriedly ordered someone to search Uncle Wang¡¯s room. ¡°Master, several jars of Cao Wu Wine were found in Uncle Wang¡¯s room, which he used regularly to alleviate rheumatic pain. There was also a smell of alcohol on Uncle Wang¡¯s body.¡± The servant came back and reported. Dead silence filled the Flower Hall. Feng Bailing leisurely sipped her tea. Uncle Wang suffered from rheumatism, and the scent of Cao Wu Wine was also detected by Feng Bailing last night, which allowed her to set this trap without seeming suspicious. ¡°The arrangement for Uncle Wang¡¯s funeral has been handed over to the servants. Father has been confused; how could you suspect Sister?¡± Feng Xiangxue reproached, giving Feng Zhanlian a meaningful look, and Feng Zhanlian, understanding, coughed lightly. ¡°There is one more thing. Tomorrow is the Spring Banquet in the palace, which you always disliked attending. Just like the previous years, Xiangxue will go on your behalf this year.¡± Chapter 14 - 14 14 Picked Up a Handsome Assassin ?Chapter 14: Chapter 14: Picked Up a Handsome Assassin Chapter 14: Chapter 14: Picked Up a Handsome Assassin Speaking of the Spring Banquet, Feng Xiangxue¡¯s brows were filled with joy, as she could once again bask in unlimited glory and be the center of everyone¡¯s attention. The Great Chu Imperial Palace¡¯s Spring Banquet, held once a year, is to welcome the arrival of spring and, as it coincides closely with the Empress Dowager¡¯s birthday, in plain terms, it also serves as the Empress Dowager¡¯s birthday feast. Women of the Royal Family will all attend, and Feng Bailing would often accompany Dongfang Lianhua to offer birthday wishes when she was young. At that time, she was also fond of attending the Spring Banquet because it gave her the chance to see her most beloved, Dongfang Li. But ever since she began to gain weight, especially at the age of eleven when she had been embarrassed at the Spring Banquet, she had refused to attend no matter what. ¡°Sister is willing to share your worries.¡± Feng Xiangxue hurriedly agreed with a smile. ¡°There¡¯s no need for sister to trouble yourself. I¡¯ve decided to attend this year¡¯s Spring Banquet.¡± There were three reasons for Feng Bailing to attend the Spring Banquet. She wanted to meet two people, one being Dongfang Li, and the other Dugu Wu. Jia Xiazhu was still in a coma, but what he said can¡¯t be completely unfounded; it¡¯s very likely to be true. Those who knew about the past incident were only Feng Xiangxue and Dongfang Li; compared to Feng Xiangxue, the simple-minded Dongfang Li was easier to inquire news from. Dugu Wu, also a member of the Royal Family, would be present at this year¡¯s Spring Banquet as well and would play an important role. For the sake of her seventh sense, she had to find a way to get closer to him. As for the third reason... Feng Xiangxue¡¯s smile froze on her lips. ¡°You still want to attend? You¡¯ve healed and forgotten the pain, forgetting how much face you lost back then. Xiangxue behaves properly and can bring honor to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. I am your father, and I¡¯ll make the decision for you in this matter.¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face darkened; he was a man who greatly valued his reputation, and he couldn¡¯t bear thinking about how much ridicule Feng Bailing¡¯s noble appearance and speech would attract. Outside the Flower Hall, a female voice suddenly sounded. ¡°If Ah Ling wants to attend, let her.¡± Both Feng Zhanlian and Feng Xiangxue stood up in shock. The emaciated woman, supported by the maids, walked over. Feng Bailing looked pleased, while Feng Zhanlian was so taken aback he stumbled over his words. ¡°Mother, you¡¯re able to get out of bed? The heavens have blessed you; as your daughter, I knew you are meant to have good fortune.¡± Feng Xiangxue hurriedly put on a joyous expression, her eyes also faintly gleaming with tears. Dongfang Lianhua nodded politely. ¡°You have always been sensible and never made me worry. Ah Ling hasn¡¯t returned for many years, and her Imperial Grandmother misses her too. Let her go and fulfill her filial piety.¡± Towards Feng Xiangxue, her foster daughter, she had always kept a polite distance. Born into the Royal Family, where hearts are complex, how could she not see through it all? Dongfang Lianhua felt as if she had died once but was not willing to die just like that. Perhaps it was her reluctance that the heavens heard. After waking from a deep sleep, her breathing became smooth, and after drinking some medicine, she was able to walk on her own. ¡°Mother. Your daughter has been unfilial, but now I¡¯ve returned.¡± Feng Bailing knelt down and kowtowed three times towards her. These three kowtows owed to her mother also symbolized her determination. In this life, no one would be able to harm her family again. Dongfang Lianhua took Feng Bailing¡¯s hand with a thousand words choked in her throat. Nanny Gui and two maids all had teary eyes, wiping away their tears. However, Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face turned pale with anger. Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s words were chosen carefully, polite on the surface but with a hidden sting, clearly distinguishing that the Empress Dowager was Feng Bailing¡¯s Imperial Grandmother, whereas she was nothing. But she would not give up just like that; she must have a place at the Spring Banquet. Feng Bailing supported Dongfang Lianhua back to the west wing. The faces of those in the west wing all brightened with joy, feeling a premonition that their west wing was going to prosper after the incident with Uncle Wang. ¡°Mother, let me take your blood pressure.¡± Feng Bailing took out the sphygmomanometer. ¡°This is?¡± Dongfang Lianhua was curious. After taking the new herbal medicine, it had been very effective, and she hadn¡¯t been able to breathe this comfortably in a long time. Uncle Wang¡¯s incident had been kept a secret from Dongfang Lianhua by the people of the west wing, as she needed to recuperate without being distressed. ¡°I bought it from a traveling merchant while I was living at the Other Manor. Mother¡¯s illness isn¡¯t tuberculosis; I read about it in a book I got from that merchant.¡± Feng Bailing watched the data on the sphygmomanometer, 34. A pulmonary arterial pressure below 35 is normal. The antihypertensive medicine is effective, but treatment still needs more time. ¡°Ah Ling has changed a lot over these years.¡± Dongfang Lianhua studied her daughter. ¡°Is mother teasing me by saying I¡¯ve become less beautiful? Mother is the true beauty, radiant and gorgeous, while Ah Ling¡¯s face is full of acne, needing some time for recuperation.¡± Feng Bailing blinked. Her only good feature right now was her fair, jade-like skin. ¡°Who dares say my Ah Ling isn¡¯t pretty?¡± Remembering how distressed Ah Ling looked when mocked and sneered at that banquet a few years ago, Dongfang Lianhua furrowed her brows, resembling Lin in her moments of recovery. ¡°It¡¯s my fault for not reminding you earlier. Princess, aren¡¯t you making it difficult for the young lady? The master didn¡¯t wish for the young lady to attend the Spring Banquet, not even a new dress was made. I have no idea what to dress her in tomorrow. The Princess¡¯ size is similar to the young lady¡¯s, and there are new clothes that haven¡¯t been worn; it¡¯s just that the styles are a bit old.¡± Nanny Gui also wore a worried look. With Chun Liu gone and Xia Zhu locked in the woodshed, it was up to Nanny Gui to take care of the young lady¡¯s daily affairs temporarily. Feng Bailing had left Chu City for a few years and hadn¡¯t tailored any new clothes during her pregnancy. Upon her return, only a few days had passed. Everything from clothing and jewelry to talent performances at the Spring Banquet cannot be taken lightly. Being the daughter of Princess Yong¡¯an and the niece of Emperor Yongye, by rights, Feng Bailing should have been granted a title long ago. However, due to her absence from the Spring Banquet, she remained untitled to this day, a subject of jest among the Royal Family. ¡°I thought it was some big deal. Just wear that set then. There¡¯s a saying that fashion trends come in cycles, those who know how to match will never be out of date.¡± Feng Bailing gestured nonchalantly, randomly selecting a set. In the afternoon, after dining with Dongfang Lianhua, Nanny Gui came to report that Xia Zhu had awakened. Feng Bailing had someone prepare a roast chicken, a few side dishes, and a small bucket of rice and went to the woodshed alone. ¡°Let¡¯s make a deal, I¡¯ll let you recover in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and you help me keep an eye on the west wing.¡± Feng Bailing set down the food container, arranged the dishes, and Dongfang Lianhua was completely unaware that the Seventh Prince¡¯s people had designs on her. As for the imperial edict and such, Feng Bailing intended to ask after Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s injuries had stabilized. ¡°I¡¯m an advanced killer, you¡¯re asking me to be a watchdog, and an unpaid one at that! Believe it or not, I can twist off your head.¡± Jia Xiazhu felt humiliated. ¡°You can certainly try.¡± Feng Bailing pulled out a tube arrow. ¡°A signal arrow from the Xingxiu Sect, how do you have... This thing is very dangerous, don¡¯t mess around with it.¡± Jia Xiazhu felt around his body, almost letting out a groundhog¡¯s squeal ¨C his signal arrow was gone. ¡°There¡¯s another one of these gadgets outside, hidden on someone you¡¯ll never find. If you touch a single hair on me, Dugu Wu will be here within half an hour; he recognizes your signals.¡± Saying this, Feng Bailing put away the tube arrow and took out her surgical knife. The knife, gleaming with a cold light, spun around her fingertip, and with a wave of Cong Baiyu, whoosh, she made multiple swift cuts. ¡°!!!¡± Jia Xiazhu¡¯s plate of roast chicken was picked clean, leaving only the skeletal frame. The thinly sliced chicken meat, paper-thin, was neatly stacked on the plate. He shuddered, teeth chattering in fright. What kind of place was the Princess¡¯ Mansion? This woman was not only an expert in poisons but also in wielding knives! Chapter 15 - 15 15 Effective Frostbite Ointment ?Chapter 15: Chapter 15 Effective Frostbite Ointment Chapter 15: Chapter 15 Effective Frostbite Ointment As she walked out of the firewood shed, Feng Bailing looked back one more time¡ªthere was nothing on Jia Xiazhu¡¯s forehead. Could the fleeting fiery red mark have been an illusion? At dusk, Feng Bailing received a letter brought by Chun Liu, which said that Feng Xiaoli was doing well outside, eating and sleeping heartily, and had even gained a few pounds in weight. It was only before sleep that Feng Xiaoli would think of Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing missed Xiaoli¡¯s tender little face and thought to herself that after the Spring Banquet, she should visit her precious daughter, lest Xiaoli forget her own mother. The thought of Xiaoli inevitably brought worries about her own son, whom she had never met. Jia Xiazhu told her that Xiazhu was also a disciple of the Xingxiu Sect, and that when Feng Bailing was in labor, she gave birth to twins, a boy and a girl. The boy was taken away by people sent by Dongfang Li. Her heart clenched tightly¡ªit was the child she had given birth to after a nine-month pregnancy, yet she had lost him, and it had been three years. She must extract the whereabouts of her child from Dongfang Li¡¯s mouth! The next day, the horse carriage for entering the palace was waiting outside the mansion gate. ¡°Ah Ling, your mother is in no condition to travel, so you must enter the palace alone and take good care of everything. This is the birthday gift for the Empress Dowager; it was carefully selected by your father.¡± Feng Zhanlian, appearing every bit the affectionate father, had prepared the birthday gift. ¡°Thank you, Father.¡± Feng Bailing casually took the birthday gift and boarded the horse carriage. Feng Bailing had no idea that before she left, another horse carriage had already departed first. This was a vermilion-wheeled carriage with golden tassels hanging down and a body made of Nanmu wood¡ªa royal carriage. As with previous years, the Spring Banquet was set in Yi Garden, part of the imperial garden. In these days when the weather turned warm yet could still chill, the plum blossoms, sensing spring, were blooming enthusiastically, adorned with red, white, and yellow on their branches. In the afternoon, the women of the Royal Family, each dressed magnificently, gathered together to sip tea and chat about the latest gossip from every household. ¡°The eldest daughter of the Princess¡¯ Mansion has returned, and on the first day, she got her marriage annulled by the Seventh Prince.¡± ¡°This time, the Yong¡¯an Princess Mansion has really lost face. The legitimate eldest daughter isn¡¯t even comparable to an adopted daughter.¡± ¡°Where does the Princess¡¯ Mansion get the face? Just think of that fatty and the huge embarrassment she caused that year...¡± That year, during the Spring Banquet, Feng Bailing sparkled with gold and jewelry, with her plumpness overly embellished, looking even older than the birthday star and, not only that, she, barely literate, insisted on writing a couplet during the talent performance to celebrate the birthday. ¡°Fortune as enduring as the old squirrels of South Mountain; longevity surpassing the flowing saliva of the Eastern Sea.¡± Remembering the Empress Dowager¡¯s expression at the time, the ladies couldn¡¯t help but laugh with heads thrown back. The Crown Princess Consort has arrived¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª The women busily bowed in greeting. On the pebble-paved path, two beautiful women walked gracefully. Trailing behind was Feng Xiangxue from the Princess¡¯ Mansion. She was pretty and wore apricot-yellow today, exuding a gentle demeanor. Feng Xiangxue was considered a beauty in Chu City, but next to the woman in front of her, she paled in comparison. Beneath the large fox-fur cloak, the woman was dressed in a lotus-pink silk dress embroidered with lotus flowers, with pale pink ribbons outlining her slender waist. Her graceful presence attracted everyone¡¯s attention. The woman¡¯s face was no less outstanding. With her hair like black clouds, her delicate nose, eyelashes like feather fans, and eyes as captivating as jewels, with just a touch of crimson on her lips, and a faintly visible blue indigo mark between her brows that resembled an ancient fire symbol, she had an ethereal charm. Even the most critical Royal Family ladies couldn¡¯t find a single fault with her. Nalan Yan¡¯er, the Princess Consort of Great Chu, was the object of envy for all women in Great Chu, from eight-year-olds to octogenarians. She came from a good family as the daughter of Grandmaster Nalan; she was beautiful, considered the most beautiful woman of Great Chu; and she was fortunate, having given birth to twins that caused a sensation in heaven and earth after marrying into the Royal Family. But Heaven¡¯s favor didn¡¯t end there. She also possessed the rare Wenhua Seal, making her the unrivaled talented woman of Great Chu. If there was one flaw, it was her husband¡ªthe Prince of Great Chu... Feng Xiangxue and Nalan Yan¡¯er were close friends, and it was Nalan Yan¡¯er who brought her to today¡¯s Spring Banquet. Upon the arrival of the Crown Princess Consort, Yi Garden fell silent, and no one dared to gossip about Feng Bailing anymore. Feng Xiangxue looked around but did not see Feng Bailing. She was waiting to see Feng Bailing make a fool of herself. Feng Bailing didn¡¯t have time to prepare new clothes, and that gift as well... A cold light flashed in her eyes; being humiliated twice at the Spring Banquet, Feng Bailing would definitely be disowned by the Royal Family. ¡°How come the Imperial Grandson and Imperial Granddaughter are nowhere to be seen?¡± ¡°They went to find their Grandpa. His Majesty, accompanied by several Princes and Princes, is discussing state affairs in the nearby Lian Garden and might come later to celebrate the birthday. You¡¯d better perform well.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er lifted her gaze and smiled lightly, her eyes tender, and her thoughts drifting afar. He¡¯s here too. ¡°Look, Feng Bailing has arrived.¡± Someone whispered, causing a stir in the crowd. Feng Xiangxue couldn¡¯t help laughing secretly. Judging by the commotion, she knew that Feng Bailing had made a big fool of herself today. Just then, the Empress Dowager and the Empress arrived, and both Nalan Yan¡¯er and Feng Xiangxue hurriedly knelt down to pay their respects. ¡°We are all family here, no need for such formalities.¡± The Empress Dowager was not yet in her sixties, and aside from slightly graying temples and a bit of fullness, she was otherwise well-maintained. She glanced around the crowd and then spotted a figure kneeling in the corner, a familiar sight. ¡°It¡¯s Ah Ling, isn¡¯t it? I heard you just returned from recuperation. Come here, let your Imperial Grandmother have a look at you.¡± The Empress Dowager nodded slightly. Feng Xiangxue bowed her head, waiting to see Feng Bailing¡¯s disgrace. Standing before the Empress Dowager, Feng Bailing¡¯s attire earned her several moments of admiration in the Empress Dowager¡¯s eyes. ¡°Ah Ling, you look truly handsome today. You remind me of your mother, Lianhua, when she was young. Young ladies should dress like this, it¡¯s pleasing to the eye.¡± When the ladies heard this, they thought, what? Could the Empress Dowager¡¯s vision be failing her? Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes flickered slightly, and she furrowed her brow lightly. Her attire had always set the standard in the palace, and today she had also dressed with great care, elegant yet charming. She had thought she would receive praise, but to her surprise, it was Feng Bailing who was complimented. The Empress Dowager helped Feng Bailing up and looked her over. She was dressed in a begonia-colored Changru robe adorned with large ¡®longevity cloud¡¯ patterns blooming like flowers across the fabric, and draped over it was a scarlet cloak edged with jade rabbit fur. A silver-red veil covered her face, leaving only her lively eyes visible. Whatever makeup she had used on those eyes, they were like autumn waters¡ªclear and spirited, with the corners of her eyes shining like stars, as if filled with the galaxy. ¡°Imperial Grandmother, Ah Ling has prepared a birthday gift for you. This is ointment. Your hands have developed chilblains, and after using this, they won¡¯t crack any longer.¡± As Feng Bailing spoke, she took a small porcelain bottle and gently applied the ointment onto the Empress Dowager¡¯s hands. When kneeling to perform the ritual, she noticed with her sharp eyes that although the Empress Dowager¡¯s face and figure were well-maintained, several of her fingers had developed chilblains. Because she aggravated them by holding a hand warmer, the Empress Dowager couldn¡¯t resist scratching several times while standing and greeting guests. Feng Bailing had been worried about not having a birthday gift, but in the second layer of her medical box, there just happened to be a chilblain ointment! Gift-giving is a skillful art, better clever than expensive. As for the birthday gift prepared by Feng Zhanlian, hmph, Blood Wings. Indeed, she had a ¡°good father.¡± The always vegetarian and devout Empress Dowager, if she had seen it, would have been angrier than she was that year at the couplet incident. The Empress Dowager was taken aback for a moment. Ah Ling was usually so meek and dare not speak up to her, but this time, she seemed much bolder. After Feng Bailing applied the ointment, the chilblain ointment was absorbed, and the itching on the Empress Dowager¡¯s hand was alleviated considerably. Chilblains had troubled the Empress Dowager for a long time, a minor ailment the Imperial Hospital had always managed to treat the symptoms but not the root cause, recurring every winter. With her hands feeling better, the Empress Dowager¡¯s mood improved, and her brows relaxed as she led Feng Bailing towards their seats. ¡°Let¡¯s all take our seats and enjoy the meal. After a year¡¯s absence, let this old one see what new skills the children of each household have learned.¡± Chapter 16 - 16 16 She Outshines Them All ?Chapter 16: Chapter 16: She Outshines Them All! Chapter 16: Chapter 16: She Outshines Them All! In ancient times, dining was about three major competitions: clothing, sons-in-law, and talents. Why can¡¯t people just enjoy some sunflower seeds and have a nice chat? In this kind of weather, if everyone could gather around to eat hotpot and drink beer, that would be truly satisfying. Feng Bailing sighed, being pulled by the Empress Dowager to sit beside her. Her seating position attracted quite a few sideways glances. At the Spring Banquet, sitting beside the Empress Dowager was an absolutely prime spot, one even the Empress couldn¡¯t reach. In past years, it was Nalan Yan¡¯er who sat beside the Empress Dowager. Feng Xiangxue was also feeling uneasy at the banquet. Seeing Feng Bailing favored by the Empress Dowager, her eyes nearly popped out of their sockets. Feng Xiangxue comforted herself, knowing her talent performance was coming up soon and that it might turn the tables in her favor. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, I hear you¡¯ve prepared a special talent this year?¡± Feng Xiangxue, seeing a young lady from a Marquis Mansion writing some characters, actively asked Nalan Yan¡¯er by her side. Nalan Yan¡¯er stood up. ¡°Your Highness, I shall not embarrass myself. Instead, Xiaojin and Xiao Xiu have prepared some calligraphy to present to you.¡± She took out a brocade box containing a painting. On it were many ¡®longevity¡¯ characters of various sizes and shapes, a total of hundreds, a remarkable Hundred Longevity Diagram. The women all chattered incessantly, showering flattery upon her. The Empress Dowager, upon hearing this, was overjoyed and rewarded Nalan Yan¡¯er with several bolts of brocade. Feng Bailing, overhearing whispered discussions around her, also learned that three years ago, the Crown Princess Consort gave birth to twin children. On the night of their birth, the sky suddenly brightened with a brilliant glow, and the aurora took the form of a dragon and a phoenix, descending over Chu City until dawn. Three years ago, the Crown Princess Consort¡¯s children were born the same year as Xiao Li. However, the handwriting was forceful and despite simulating a child¡¯s style, it clearly looked as though someone else with ulterior motives had written it. This was clearly setting up a prodigy image. As Feng Bailing was internally criticising, Nalan Yan¡¯er and Feng Xiangxue exchanged glances, and Nalan Yan¡¯er was about to say something. ¡°Your Highness, the Empress, this humble girl wishes to perform.¡± A tentative female voice, difficult to reject, silenced the flatterers upon seeing who it was. Nalan Yan¡¯er slightly opened her mouth, experiencing being interrupted in such a setting for the first time. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s eyes almost bulged out, the one preempting to perform was none other than Feng Bailing. The time for the Spring Banquet was limited, each household had only one performer, and Feng Bailing was snatching her moment to shine! ¡°Ah Ling also wants to perform, good. However, no more writing this year due to cold hands,¡± the Empress Dowager remarked with a forced smile. Feng Bailing looked around, seeing that all other households¡¯ performances involved music, painting, or calligraphy. Her piece, no ordinary instrument could do it justice. Her gaze shifted and spotted someone approaching. The person came alone, without attendants, holding a White Jade Flute, apparently a court musician. ¡°I won¡¯t write then. Since no one has sung yet today, I shall sing and dance, but I need someone to accompany me on music. Please trouble that musician.¡± Feng Bailing spoke crisply. The ¡°musician¡± had already walked over and paused in his steps upon hearing Feng Bailing. Stunned by his appearance, Feng Bailing gazed intently. The man was slender as a bamboo, dressed in a cyan robe with soaring cloud patterns, a white jade belt around his waist, his black hair silky, eyebrows arching as if flying, his eyes beneath the brows soft and enchanting like a fox, his gaze foggy as if the haze in March. Such a handsome man was actually blind. Heaven envies the handsome! Upon hearing this, the Empress Dowager burst into laughter, thrilled that Feng Bailing wanted him as the Moon Master. ¡°Mosheng, since Ah Ling has requested you to accompany the music, play a tune.¡± ¡°Your grandson obeys.¡± The man¡¯s mouth curved slightly, and the teardrop-shaped mole by his eye gave a fleeting impression of taking flight. He nodded slightly towards Feng Bailing¡¯s direction; he couldn¡¯t see, but his hearing was excellent. Yi Garden was next to Lian Garden, connected by an artificial lake. By the lakeside, Emperor Yongye stood with a host of royal relatives, still visibly angered. The council had ended, and Emperor Yongye had only learned of the annulment last night. He fiercely scolded Dongfang Li and Dugu Wu in front of all the princes and lords. ¡°Father Emperor, this matter truly isn¡¯t this son¡¯s fault. Feng Bailing is ugly, mediocre, and dull-witted. How could such a person be your daughter-in-law? A few years ago, that couplet she wrote at the Spring Banquet nearly made the Imperial Grandmother ill. Recently, my internal Gang Qi has been restless and might soon condense into the Wuji Seal. How could I marry such a woman?¡± Dongfang Li was visibly dissatisfied. Emperor Yongye had heard, of course, but Feng Bailing¡¯s mother was Princess Yong¡¯an, who had been ill these past years. If she heard this bad news, it might worsen her condition. Now was not the time for her to die. Dugu Wu was among the officials, listening to Dongfang Li¡¯s words with a mocking smile. Dull-witted? Was the Feng Bailing he knew the same as Dongfang Li¡¯s? The princes who heard this all showed envy. Seventh, this boy, to have such an opportunity to condense the Wuji Seal? It requires literary talent to achieve the Wenhua Seal and supreme martial skills to obtain the Wuji Seal. Among nations, very few possess either the Wenhua Seal or Wuji Seal. If the military represents a country¡¯s hard power, then those with Wenhua and Wuji talents represent soft power, which royal families pay special attention to; securing a seal is like a fish leaping over the dragon gate, an extraordinary feat. Emperor Yongye thought, if Seventh really could secure a seal, then Feng Bailing, being ugly and devoid of virtue, truly was worthless and indeed did not match his Seventh. Dongfang Li felt pride and even walked with more vigor. ¡°Forget it, what¡¯s done is done. You two acted on your own, a month¡¯s salary will be forfeited.¡± Emperor Yongye flung his sleeve and had already reached the entrance of Yi Garden. A melodious flute sound came, flowing like water, now resembling a mountain stream, now a plummeting waterfall, with highs and lows in pitch, extremely pleasant to hear. ¡°It must be Xiao Jiu playing the flute; his skill has improved again.¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression softened slightly; it was a pity that the Ninth Prince was blind, otherwise, with his intelligence, he would certainly achieve great things, no less so than Dugu Wu. ¡°The flute sound of the Ninth Prince is truly unparalleled in Great Chu.¡± As soon as Dugu Wu finished speaking, a melodious singing voice reached their ears. The singer, naturally gifted with a beautiful voice. The voice was sweet and smooth, and the lyrics were extraordinary. ¡°A solitary cold plum defiant in the snow Only for its fragrance to drift to my beloved Loving what I love without regret or resentment ...¡± If the flute playing is unparalleled in Great Chu, then this song is rare in the world. Everyone stopped in their tracks, compelled to look towards the source of the singing. In the fiery Plum Forest, a woman stood, her red attire brighter than flames, her figure gracefully elongated, and wherever her singing reached, the most vibrant red plums on the branches instantly paled in comparison. Chapter 17 - 17 17 She Stole the Spotlight ?Chapter 17: Chapter 17 She Stole the Spotlight Chapter 17: Chapter 17 She Stole the Spotlight On the lake surface, a sudden spring breeze arose, stirring ripples. Feng Bailing¡¯s singing voice was captivating. It turned out to be her. Who was she pouring her heart out to? By the end of the lyrics, how striking was the line ¡°To love the one I love, without regret or grudge.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes deepened, feeling an itch on his cheek. He lifted his hand to touch, and it was a piece of snow. The sky began to flutter with flying snow, much like catkins. Feng Bailing had just finished the song ¡°A Cut of the Plum,¡± and the flute music also stopped, pleasing her with its effect. During that Spring Banquet, she could barely recognize a few large characters and suffered a loss due to her illiteracy. After crossing into the 22nd century, she turned a new leaf, joined a military school, and before becoming an all-round medic, she served for five years in other military branches, three of them as a soldier in the cultural troupe. Western, classical, pop, jazz, combining singing, acting and comic dialogue, she was adept at all. Although it was their first collaboration, her cooperation with Dongfang Mosheng was nearly seamless. At this moment, Feng Bailing realized she had mistaken the person. The flutist was the ninth son of Emperor Yongye, Dongfang Mosheng. Speaking of Dongfang Mosheng, among the princes, he was not particularly outstanding. Feng Bailing had never seen him in seclusion before, but had heard some rumors of him while accompanying Dongfang Lianhua in the palace in earlier days. Dongfang Mosheng was a prince, but among the nine princes, he held a low status. His mother was just a dance girl from the music bureau, who died when he was three. That same year, he also suffered a severe illness, but later he was adopted by Noble Princess Consort Xiao. Although Dongfang Mosheng recovered from his illness, he was blinded. Unlike the other princes, he harbored little ambition and had no intention to vie for the throne; instead, he was very skilled in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. Feng Bailing shook off the snow from her cape, plucked a red plum blossom, and walked towards Dongfang Mosheng, curtsying. ¡°Seventh Prince, I truly was rude just now. Swords are gifted to heroes, and flowers to beauties; this red plum blossom is for you as an apology.¡± As Feng Bailing spoke, her voice still retained the sweetness from her singing, landing softly in one¡¯s ears and causing one¡¯s heart to flutter. Dongfang Mosheng raised his hand to take the flower but accidentally brushed against Feng Bailing¡¯s palm. The warmth of her palm seemed scorching, causing his heart to tremble and abruptly retracting his hand. An extra item appeared on his ear, the cool fragrance of plum blossoms wafting over, matching the scent that emanated from Feng Bailing. ¡°Red indeed suits you very well.¡± Feng Bailing smiled, the Dongfang Mosheng before her with snow-white skin, contrasted with the radiant red plum, so beautiful it could bring shame to women. ¡°Fussy and fussy, since when do men wear flowers. Feng Bailing, stop pawing on my ninth brother.¡± A figure leaped forward, Dongfang Li, protective like a mother hen, stood in front of Dongfang Mosheng, snatched the plum blossom from Feng Bailing¡¯s hand, threw it to the ground, and stomped it into a pulp. Seeing it was Dongfang Li, Feng Bailing remembered the son she had lost, her eyes almost spewing fire, but now was not the time to deal with him. ¡°I knew it, you woman are not giving up on me. Playing hard to get, aren¡¯t you? I¡¯m not falling for that.¡± Dongfang Li spoke disdainfully, but deep down felt inexplicably pleased. This silly woman, her singing was strangely attractive, such talent and yet she tucks it away. That line ¡°To love the one I love without regret or grudge, may this feeling forever linger in my heart¡± wasn¡¯t that just her trying to hold on to him? He heard it, and it struck a chord. Emperor Yongye also clapped in praise. ¡°Well sung.¡± Feng Bailing feigned surprise at just noticing Emperor Yongye, with apparent fear in her eyes, and bowed in salute. Everybody present also paid their respects to Emperor Yongye. Among the crowd, Nalan Yan¡¯er stealthily glanced over, catching a glimpse of that dark figure, feeling a bittersweet ache in her heart. Though resentful, for letting Feng Bailing steal all the limelight, wasn¡¯t the song Feng Bailing sang just a reflection of her own inner turmoil? ¡°Empress Mother?¡± Emperor Yongye, seeing Empress Dowager¡¯s eyes turning red and her incessant tears, was shocked and quickly stepped forward to support her. ¡°Ah Ling did give her all; the song truly resonated with my heart,¡± sighed the Empress Dowager, her eyes brimming with memories of the past. ¡°How many years have passed, I almost forgot my maiden name. When the Retired Emperor first ascended the throne, upon my entry into the palace, I was granted the title of Concubine Mei. Your mother, Queen Mother, was here too, but now, I am left alone. I am very happy today; these children remind me of my youth.¡± Before entering the palace, the Empress Dowager¡¯s maiden name known to very few, was from a family with the surname Mei. Clearly, Feng Bailing¡¯s song was a tribute to the Empress Dowager. The realization dawned on all the ladies present. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face could no longer maintain its composure; her fingernails dug into the palm of her hand. Neither the Empress Dowager nor the Seventh Prince had glanced her way, not even once. ¡°I haven¡¯t been this happy in many years; Ah Ling, step forward to receive commendation.¡± The wrinkles on the Empress Dowager¡¯s face softened, making her appear years younger. Feng Bailing lowered her gaze, her eyes scanning for any movement in the vicinity as she walked towards the Empress Dowager and Emperor Yongye. Dugu Wu arched an eyebrow, watching as Feng Bailing passed in front of him; the hem of her dress swayed like a fishtail, surprisingly graceful. Was she actually quite pleasing to the eye? All of a sudden, a eunuch beside him leaped into action, a glint of a Hidden Weapon flickered from his sleeve, aimed at Emperor Yongye. ¡°Protect the Emperor!¡± It all happened too quickly; accompanied by a cold shout, Dugu Wu¡¯s towering figure was the first to react, swinging his palm. The blast from his palm shattered the chest of the would-be assassin, who fell to the side. The water¡¯s surface rippled loudly as several dark figures emerged from beneath. Chaos ensued within Yi Garden. Those dozen or so attackers moved with exceptional skill, their attacks uniformly targeting Emperor Yongye and Dugu Wu. Unarmed, Dugu Wu found himself retreating and entrenched in battle; he grunted, feeling a stabbing pain in his knee. Stumbling, he remembered what Feng Bailing had said earlier, ¡°Tsk, be wary of using internal energy.¡± His gaze turned heavier as a fiery red light flickered at his brow, brilliant like flames. Gang Qi surged into his sleeves; with a sweep of his arm, he decapitated the attackers at their necks in an instant, heads tumbling into his hands. Woosh, woosh, woosh, a breeze of icy chills came flying, Hidden Weapons assaulted him from all directions, and his right knee was hit by an arrow. Around him, palace guards flooded in like a tide. ¡°Protect the Empress Dowager!¡± Behind him, an assassin saw his attempt fail and went after the Empress Dowager. In the blink of an eye, someone threw themselves in front of the Empress Dowager. The person held a chopstick in hand, the tip sharp beyond compare; a gleam of sharp light flashed in her eyes, and with fierce determination, she stabbed forcefully. The assassin screamed in agony as a bloody blur filled his vision, soon overturned by the rushing guards. Dugu Wu¡¯s gaze deepened, not far from his side. Feng Bailing held the pale-faced Empress Dowager, blood tinting her eyes, her forehead covered in sweat; her frail frame trembled slightly, yet her eyes gleamed astonishingly bright, as lustrous as the stars. Chapter 18 - 18 18 Dugu Wu Rejected Her Proposal ?Chapter 18: Chapter 18: Dugu Wu, Rejected Her Proposal Chapter 18: Chapter 18: Dugu Wu, Rejected Her Proposal The wind blew, scattering plum blossoms all over the ground, the petals stained with specks of blood, a horrifying sight to behold. In a moment, all assassins were beheaded, and the only one alive bit through the poison sac under his tongue and committed suicide upon capture. Emperor Yongye was thunderously enraged. ¡°Find out, who exactly is behind this!¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s eyebrows were full of fury, and he cast a cold glance at Dugu Wu. Although Dugu Wu had made a meritorious service in saving the Emperor, he was the commander of the Imperial Guard, and he was solely responsible for the palace¡¯s defense. On the day of the Spring Banquet, such an incident occurred, Dugu Wu must bear the primary responsibility. Empress Dowager regained her composure, and seeing Feng Bailing still stained with blood and shivering violently, she pulled her over with heartache. ¡°Ah Ling, are you alright?¡± ¡°Reporting to the Empress Dowager, your servant is fine, just a little dizzy.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s voice was weak. She did not lie; she really felt a bit faint. She hadn¡¯t eaten much at the banquet, and her postnatal hemorrhage left her with unhealed deficiencies and low blood sugar. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you this time, this old body of mine would have had to face the Retired Emperor.¡± The Empress Dowager was deeply moved, in that situation, everyone was looking out for themselves, and the assassins were killing without blinking an eye, only Feng Bailing threw herself over to save her regardless of everything. ¡°Emperor, Ah Ling has rendered a great service in saving you; she deserves a significant reward.¡± ¡°Ah Ling has shown great bravery and wisdom, much stronger than some people.¡± Emperor Yongye, frustrated with the inability to shape iron into steel, glanced at the group of Princes who huddled together like a flock of quails. Especially his own sons, each one standing over six feet tall. It¡¯s one thing for the Ninth to be blind, but all of the others together are not even comparable to one Feng Bailing? Dongfang Li was full of frustration, experiencing an assassination attempt for the first time, he was too nervous, and Feng Bailing, was she crazy, to be so valiant! Despite this, Emperor Yongye remembered those who had served and those who had merits must be distinctly rewarded, especially since the Empress Dowager had already spoken. ¡°Feng Bailing, what reward would you ask of me?¡± Emperor Yongye called Feng Bailing forward, and she promptly knelt with a face full of reverence. ¡°Your Majesty, your servant has a request.¡± Not far away, Feng Xiangxue heard this, her hand wringing her handkerchief into a ball, feeling uneasy, fearing that Feng Bailing would ask for the Seventh Prince to marry her. Others might not understand, but Feng Xiangxue was very clear about Feng Bailing¡¯s intentions; her affected demeanor, her singing, and her saving of the Empress Dowager were all to attract the attention of the Emperor and the Seventh Prince. ¡°Your servant is nineteen this year, of marriageable age. I have long admired Prince Dugu and earnestly request the Emperor to bestow marriage and fulfill your servant¡¯s wish.¡± Feng Bailing said straightforwardly. That woman, shameless! Dugu Wu¡¯s face changed dramatically, and he looked towards Nalan Yan¡¯er not far away. Nalan Yan¡¯er looked at him steadily, her beautiful eyes filled with a mist of water, and with a poignant look, she shook her head lightly, signaling Dugu Wu, you must not agree. ¡°You admire Dugu Wu?¡± Emperor Yongye also thought that Feng Bailing would take this opportunity to request a marriage or a title from him. But unexpectedly, Feng Bailing, ignoring all the royal offspring, had her sights set solely on Dugu Wu. ¡°Prince Dugu is a man of looks and talent, brave and martial, known to all and lauded by everyone. Which woman wouldn¡¯t love such a heroic figure.¡± Feng Bailing piled on flattery towards Dugu Wu, causing his face to turn as black as the bottom of a pot. To be fair, what Feng Bailing said was the absolute truth. Dugu Wu was very handsome, even more dashing than any of the Princes, and his possession of the Wuji Wood Seal, marking him as the Great Chu¡¯s number one master, was also true. How many times did the noble families of Great Chu scramble to marry their daughters to him, and a few even succeeded. Dugu Wu had been married before¡ªhe was 27 this year and had married three Princess Consorts. But all three Princess Consorts had met with accidents shortly before or after entering his household. There have been those who fell to their death on their wedding day, those who died before their wedding night was consummated, and one who went mad on the night of the ceremony and has not recovered to this day. One Princess Consort perishing could be called an accident, but when three Princess Consorts all meet with misfortunes, it becomes suspicious. Later, a rumor spread throughout Great Chu that Dugu Wu was born with heterochromia, his fate harboring evil spirits and cursed to be without a wife or offspring. In recent years, no one has dared to propose marrying Dugu Wu. ¡°Ah Ling, this concerns your lifelong happiness, you need to think it over carefully. Perhaps you should discuss with your parents back home before making a decision.¡± The Empress Dowager was both happy and worried. ¡°Empress Dowager, I have considered it thoroughly, please let the Emperor and Empress Dowager grant us this.¡± Feng Bailing bowed deeply, her voice resolute. ¡°Very well, neither of you are married, so I shall grant your wish.¡± Emperor Yongye had just agreed. ¡°I do not consent.¡± Dugu Wu suddenly spoke up, glaring at Feng Bailing with anger. Nalan Yan¡¯er breathed a sigh of relief. Feng Xiangxue, watching Feng Bailing make a fool of herself, was quite pleased. Emperor Yongye furrowed his brows; Dugu Wu was openly defying the imperial decree. ¡°Your Majesty, Prince Wu does not wish to take a consort. There must be a reason. Perhaps let Prince Wu reconsider.¡± A tranquil-looking Princess Consort Guo beside the Empress Dowager spoke up. Feng Bailing remembered that she was Princess Consort Guo who had borne a princess, but that princess... Dugu Wu slightly relaxed, just as he was about to thank Princess Consort Guo, he felt a sharp pain in his foot, his vision darkened and he leaned forward. Dugu Wu fainted. The Spring Banquet was forced to a halt. The Empress Dowager, distressed over Feng Bailing¡¯s shock, let her stay the night in Cichun Palace. Towards dusk, Feng Bailing took the opportunity while the Empress Dowager was not paying attention to slip out from the side hall. ¡°After a whole day of hardship, I have finally eclipsed Feng Xiangxue¡¯s accomplishments.¡± Feng Bailing strolled near Cichun Palace, her memories of the Imperial Palace still those from her childhood. She felt the palaces looked alike and did not know which palace Dugu Wu was placed in. Dugu Wu had been attacked and struck by a poisoned arrow. According to the Imperial Physician, his injury was severe, and he might be paralyzed from the waist down. The Imperial Hospital was deliberating on how to save him. ¡°What a clever act of feigning injury. If I had not been reborn, I would have almost been fooled.¡± Feng Bailing thought to herself. She knew all that had happened today. In her previous life, Feng Bailing was ousted from Feng Mansion by Dongfang Li and the Feng family before the Spring Banquet took place, missing the event. During that Spring Banquet, two incidents changed the fate of several people. This was also what she learned from Feng Xiangxue¡¯s boastful talk after being titled Commandery Princess when Feng Bailing was driven out of her family home. At the Spring Banquet, there was also an assassination attempt. Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince, was stabbed and seriously injured, nearly crippled. After the assassination and resulting disability, Dugu Wu was stripped of his power and lived a recluse life for a year. Throughout that year, everyone in Chu City thought the Ninth Prince would never recover, but a year later, Dugu Wu came back with a vengeance, attaining even greater power. Eventually, he even placed Emperor Yongye under house arrest. Another interlude at this Spring Banquet was Feng Xiangxue saving the Empress Dowager. During the assassination attempt, Feng Xiangxue had just completed her performance. Her outstanding act won the Empress Dowager¡¯s praise, and in a critical moment, she used her body to shield the Empress Dowager from the assassin, saving her life. For her merit in saving the Empress Dowager, Emperor Yongye titled her as Commandery Princess. After that, with the aid of Crown Princess Consort Nalan Yan¡¯er and the Empress Dowager, Feng Xiangxue received the Emperor¡¯s decree to marry and became the Seventh Prince Consort. As news came one after another, Feng Bailing had already become a beggar on the streets, witnessing Princess Yong¡¯an being infuriated to death, Chun Liu tragically killed, her brother¡¯s spirit broken, and ultimately the destruction of the entire Feng Mansion. Chapter 19 - 19 19 Reunion with the Benefactor from a Past ?Chapter 19: Chapter 19: Reunion with the Benefactor from a Past Life Chapter 19: Chapter 19: Reunion with the Benefactor from a Past Life Everything had just begun, the wheels of history had veered off their destined path, Feng Xiangxue did not become the Commandery Princess, would Dugu Wu end up crippled? The chocolate in her mouth melted, slightly bitter yet sweet upon reflection. Feng Bailing ate expressionlessly and regained some strength. Unconsciously, she arrived near Yi Garden. The corpses of assassins had been cleared, and there weren¡¯t many people around. After the assassination, the security in the Imperial Palace was tightened, with guards stationed every few steps. The Imperial Palace was vast, and aimlessly searching was not a method; Feng Bailing thought she needed to ask someone. There was a commotion by the artificial hills near the lake. ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, give it to me.¡± The spoiled voice of a child carried over. Feng Bailing approached and saw a richly dressed little girl angrily blocking a little boy. It was the day of the Spring Banquet, and many had brought their children. For fear of disturbing the Empress Dowager¡¯s peace, they were taken care of by their respective nannies in a side hall. Logically, at this hour, the children should have returned with their families, or perhaps these children were from the palace? The little girl was small, rounded and smooth with a noble aire about her, probably three or four years old. She was holding a golden slingshot, aiming it at the little boy. The little boy was turned away from Feng Bailing; Feng Bailing could not see his face clearly. He was taller than the little girl, and his clothes did not suggest he was from a prominent family. He remained silent, holding the small creature in his arms even tighter. ¡°It is my dog, I want to kill it with a slingshot, that would be its good fortune. Give it back to me quickly, or else I will hit you too.¡± The little girl waved the slingshot in her hand, her domineering attitude revealing that she must be a little tyrant at home. Seeing that the little boy remained unresponsive, she pushed him, but he did not budge, and she instead fell to the ground. She had always been one to command wind and rain since birth, never before treated coldly like this. Watching the little boy¡¯s handsome face devoid of any expression and not helping her up, she suddenly was overwhelmed with anger. She grabbed a handful of stones and slingshotted them towards the little boy. The girl had just launched a stone, the little boy sidestepped, and the stone flew past him. Stone after stone he dodged; though young, he clearly was trained in martial arts; his opponent could not touch him. ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, I command you in my capacity as the Imperial Eldest Granddaughter, stand and take it, or else, I¡¯ll have Grandpa Emperor behead you and your entire family.¡± The girl, both anxious and furious, stood arrogantly pointing at the little boy, entirely embodying the demeanor of someone superior. Despite her young age, her threats were bold and audacious. The little boy pressed his lips together, his fists clenched in anger. But recalling how the Princess Consort Shun had sternly warned him before he left, his fists reluctantly unclenched. ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, having entered the Imperial Palace, whatever the Imperial Grandsons command you to do, you do. They are the sovereigns, you are the subject, it is your fate. Be obedient, or beware your father finds you a stepmother to discipline you.¡± He did not want a stepmother! As if recalling a traumatic experience, the little boy¡¯s eyes darkened, and he no longer dodged. A stone hit his forehead, skin broke and blood oozed out. ¡°Die, for not listening to me, for ignoring me, for not playing with me.¡± The little girl, furious, continued hurling stone after stone relentlessly. Plop¡ª A stone flew by, striking the little girl¡¯s forehead, instantly raising a large bump. Another stone flew and hit the other side of the little girl¡¯s forehead, breaking the skin and drawing blood. The little girl was startled and looked around, finding no one. From all directions, stones flew towards her, whistling through the air. ¡°Queen Mother, brother, come save Xiao Xiu.¡± Terrified, the little girl dropped her slingshot and ran away crying. The little boy frowned as he looked around. ¡°Which little silly goose told you not to fight back and you just don¡¯t?¡± From behind the rockery, a mysterious red figure emerged, teasingly speaking. Upon seeing it was a woman, Dugu Xiaojin immediately thought to run. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t run. If you run, the little one in your arms won¡¯t survive.¡± Feng Bailing noticed that throughout being hit, the little boy had been protecting the little one in his arms. It was a white-furred cub, its pristine fur stained with blood, showing numerous wounds, apparently inflicted by the overindulged little girl. From her mouth came cries for Grandpa, she was Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s daughter. The little boy hesitated, then stopped and turned around. Feng Bailing clearly saw the child¡¯s face. She was stunned. He looked like a little sticky rice dumpling, with thick eyelashes, a small and straight nose, and a pair of deep brown eyes. He seemed very uneasy, barely daring to look straight at Feng Bailing. It¡¯s him. In her mind, scenes flashed by like fleeting light and shadows. On the street, the little boy awkwardly placed down buns; she smiled at him, and he ran off blushing... It felt like something was stuck in her chest, and Feng Bailing was unable to speak for a long while. After her family was destroyed, having lost everything, she wandered like a living corpse. In her last days, the only warmth in her life came from the little boy before her. They were strangers only having met by chance on the street. He didn¡¯t mind her dirty and ugly appearance, and would leave a few buns for her at that hour every day. Sadly, until her death, she never knew his name. ¡°Your name is Dugu Xiaojin?¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s nose was tingling, she walked forward. Her smile made her eyes seem like they could speak, leaving Dugu Xiaojin in slight stupefaction. Although he couldn¡¯t see her face clearly, for the first time in his life, he felt that perhaps women weren¡¯t so frightening. He nodded gently. ¡°Come here, let me check it out.¡± Feng Bailing motioned him over with a wave, and Dugu Xiaojin hesitated for a moment before moving just beyond a step from her, handing over the little white dog. ¡°This is a wolf.¡± Upon examination, Feng Bailing realized it was not a dog but a young wolf. The cub looked much like a dog but its paws were somewhat different. She took out iodine, scissors, and gauze, and started to bandage the little wolf cub. In no time, the cub was dressed, breathing steady, fed by Feng Bailing with a half packet of mixed anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medicine, and it fell asleep. Seeing Feng Bailing¡¯s adept movements, Dugu Xiaojin suddenly remembered something, his eyes brightened, and he grabbed her hand, pulling her towards a nearby side hall. Chapter 20 - 20 20 Oh no the scoundrel is having a secret ?Chapter 20: Chapter 20 Oh no, the scoundrel is having a secret rendezvous Chapter 20: Chapter 20 Oh no, the scoundrel is having a secret rendezvous Passing through the corridor, there was a quiet palace. Feng Bailing was led here by Dugu Xiaojin, the little fellow running until he was sweating on his forehead. When they reached the outside of the side hall, he slowed his pace, his expression hesitant. Only then did he realize he was holding Feng Bailing¡¯s hand and retracted it in fright. He examined his own arm, his eyes brightened¡ªon his little arm, there were no rashes. He stood puzzled, while Feng Bailing took the opportunity to grab hold of him. With a ¡®snap¡¯, she applied a hemostatic sticker on his forehead. She genuinely liked this child, who, although not talkative, made people irresistibly want to be close to him. ¡°You brought me here...¡± Feng Bailing had not finished speaking when she heard voices coming from inside the side hall. Hearing the voices, Feng Bailing took a sharp intake of breath. Dugu Xiaojin also heard the noise, tiptoed to peep inside, but Feng Bailing quickly covered her eyes. ¡°Not suitable for children.¡± Oh snap, a dog of a man, a major scene of catching infidelity! Xiaojin¡¯s face turned as red as a fully cooked crawfish, held in Feng Bailing¡¯s arms, pressed against her body, surrounded by a warm, fragrant scent. Feng Bailing looked into the side hall. Inside the side hall, tears welled in Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes, her face full of concern. ¡°Ah Wu, why must you keep everyone at arm¡¯s length.¡± The hall¡¯s furnishings were simple, emitting an aura of ¡®no strangers allowed¡¯. Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince, lay on the bed with his eyes closed, not looking at Nalan Yan¡¯er. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, I do not deserve this. You should leave quickly, lest you give others something to talk about.¡± He had been seriously injured, and Emperor Yongye, sympathetic to his condition, allowed him to stay in the palace to recuperate. That was only the official reason; his refusal to marry had angered Emperor Yongye, who also ordered an investigation into the assassination attempt. ¡°Years have passed, yet you still refuse to forgive me. I had no choice but to marry the Crown Prince.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er gazed at the man on the bed; wounded though he was, he remained as majestic and handsome as ever. Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince, and the Crown Prince were utterly different; the Crown Prince was a modest gentleman, gentle as jade, serene like a calm lake, whereas Dugu Wu was like a fierce ocean, occasionally stirring up angry waves. Yet, such a man had a fatal attraction for her, a woman always seen as a lady of good family. ¡°Let the past be the past, please forget it, Crown Princess Consort.¡± Dugu Wu still had his eyes closed, but his slightly trembling hand betrayed his emotions. This assassination incident implicated many. The common people called him ¡°the Ninth Prince,¡± and Emperor Yongye probably harbored thoughts of killing him. He had initially planned everything, intending to lie low, but everything was disrupted by Feng Bailing. ¡°I admire Prince Dugu...¡± That sweet and mellow voice echoed in his ears, making him almost forget Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s presence. Under these circumstances, he could no longer be involved with Nalan Yan¡¯er in any way. ¡°You once promised me, no matter what I did, you would wait for me. Have you forgotten?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er looked tenderly at Dugu Wu, holding a medicine bowl in her hand. They loved each other mutually, and if it wasn¡¯t for his birth chart indicating ominous signs, making their families reluctant to let them marry, she would already be his wife. ¡°I did promise you. That night, you risked your life to save me, lost in demonic fire, and lost your purity; I¡¯m willing to give everything in return. I asked you to wait for me for six months, but when I returned to court, you were already the Crown Princess.¡± Dugu Wu suddenly opened his eyes, his pupils cold and indifferent. The bone-chilling cold in his eyes made Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s heart tremble unconsciously. ¡°I had no choice then; I was already pregnant. If I didn¡¯t marry, both my reputation and my family¡¯s reputation would be destroyed.¡± ¡°Enough.¡± Dugu Wu was impatient. If the child is truly his, and she marries the Crown Prince with his child, he could never forgive. Their relationship was already destroyed the moment she got married. The Crown Prince had been unconscious for three years, he waited for her for three years, but she repeatedly disappointed him. What she wanted was the position of the Crown Princess Consort, the rule over the Great Chu. Could he really not give her all of this? ¡°My child is only Dugu Xiaojin.¡± When Dugu Wu said this, Feng Bailing felt Dugu Xiaojin in his arms shiver slightly. Is he Dugu Wu¡¯s child? What kind of scoundrel could father such a cute child, it must be the mother¡¯s good genes. Feng Bailing thought mockingly. ¡°He is just an abandoned infant you picked up. Xiaojin and Xiao Xiu are the real ones...¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er said with a face full of reluctance. In Feng Bailing¡¯s arms, Dugu Xiaojin stiffened, his large eyes filled with loss. Suddenly, there was warmth above his head, and he was stunned. A hand appeared on his little head, as soft as the gentlest feather, lightly caressing his head over and over, as though some mystical power was relaxing his whole body. Nalan Yan¡¯er screamed out loud. The bowl of medicine in her hands exploded, splashing her with the soup. ¡°If you dare say Xiaojin isn¡¯t my son again, it will end up like this bowl.¡± Inside the room, the air pressure was so low it was suffocating. Even Nalan Yan¡¯er, carrying the Wenhua Seal, couldn¡¯t bear it, tears welling up in her eyes as she fled from the room. ¡°You still won¡¯t come out.¡± With a cruel tone tinged with annoyance, Dugu Wu stared at the doorway. The two quails huddled in the corner exchanged glances, and Feng Bailing, moved by Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s pitiful little eyes, reluctantly giggled and pulling Dugu Xiaojin, walked in. ¡°Ninth Prince, your son brought me here to treat you.¡± Someone approached the side hall, and he noticed immediately; he intended to act but unexpectedly caught a familiar scent. Dugu Wu glanced at Dugu Xiaojin, isn¡¯t this boy supposed to dislike women? Dugu Xiaojin stood obediently beside Feng Bailing, feeling somewhat uneasy, wanting to step forward but not daring to. His neck suddenly tightened, Feng Bailing lifted Dugu Xiaojin and tossed him beside Dugu Wu. ¡°Tell him, you care about him, afraid that he might die or get hurt. A real man, daring in love and hate, should speak out his care.¡± Dugu Xiaojin suddenly looked up, his eyes filled with stars! Wow, so impressive, it¡¯s his first time seeing someone talk like this in front of his father. Dugu Wu¡¯s mouth twitched fiercely. Ha~ He really should thank her for teaching his son! With her words, he couldn¡¯t let himself be incapacitated, he tried to stand up. ¡°Xiaojin, go outside and watch. Don¡¯t let anyone else in, I¡¯ll treat your father. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll return him to you hearty and frolicsome.¡± Feng Bailing crouched down, looking Dugu Xiaojin in the eye, and patted his little head. Upon hearing he could help, Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyes lit up, he nodded seriously and then ran out with his short legs. Dugu Wu¡¯s expression became even more bizarre, he couldn¡¯t let this woman poison his son, he definitely wouldn¡¯t accept her treatment, thinking she was up to something. The position of Princess Consort will never be hers! He clenched his teeth trying to stand up, he could move, but a sharp pain in his foot made him unstable, just then, Feng Bailing turned around. Chapter 21 - 21 21 She and He Kissed ?Chapter 21: Chapter 21: She and He, Kissed Chapter 21: Chapter 21: She and He, Kissed A world turned upside down, and the tall figure of the man came pressing over. Feng Bailing placed her hands on his chest, only to feel a hard solidity. This guy is really heavy. Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but feel repelled, intending to push him away. The palm of her hand, through the thin layer of his clothes, felt the warmth of the man¡¯s body. In an instant, Feng Bailing¡¯s seventh sense reacted again. The seventh sense erupted like an injection of chicken blood, suddenly becoming active. Although she kept Dugu Wu¡¯s Jade Pendant close to her body, which had slightly augmented her seventh sense, the effect of the jade soon became less evident. This time... Could it be because she had touched Dugu Wu? Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes sparkled, and she suddenly loosened her grip on Dugu Wu¡¯s hand. Dugu Wu did not expect her to suddenly let go, causing him to lose his balance and press on top of her, their lips unintentionally pressed together without any gap. When the soft touch came, along with a hint of cold sweet scent ¡ª the unique fragrance of a woman ¡ª a fleeting embarrassment crossed Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes. She dared to take liberties with him! As the warmth enveloped their lips, Feng Bailing had already ¡°Completely Forgotten Herself.¡± Her senses heightened, she could hear the chirping of insects from the bushes outside the corridor, marking the awakening from their winter sleep. Further away, the footsteps of patrolling guards, how many there were and in which directions they moved were all crystal clear. Dugu Wu, he¡¯s like a Great Replenishing Pill! Suddenly, the pressure on her lips increased, causing her a moment of pain when she realized this detestable man actually bit her. The two suddenly parted. Dugu Wu, feeling disgusted, wiped his lips, his ears burning hot. She was the first person who dared to take liberties with him! It seemed that her cold fragrance still lingered on his lips, though it wasn¡¯t exactly unpleasant. Feng Bailing stared at Dugu Wu¡¯s lips, or more precisely, the Purple Gold Dragon behind Dugu Wu. The Purple Gold Dragon appeared again. It was very angry, swinging its tail, causing the chains to clatter loudly, its expression as if it had suffered a great loss, exuding an aloof demeanor of ¡®don¡¯t mess with me¡¯. Like master, like dragon, both with the same bad temper. ¡°How did you know about today¡¯s assassination?¡± Dugu Wu raised his hand, and a sharp chopstick fell just beneath Feng Bailing¡¯s eyelid. The blood on that chopstick had already dried, sending shivers down one¡¯s spine. Feng Bailing raised her eyebrows, that was the weapon she used to blind the assassin, clearly prepared in advance. ¡°I know quite a bit, not only about the assassination but also that the first assailant was you, Ninth Prince...¡± Feng Bailing hadn¡¯t finished speaking when she grunted. Dugu Wu¡¯s brow flashed red, as if transformed into another person, he leaned forward aggressively and seized Feng Bailing by the neck. Unlike her face full of bumps, her neck skin was soft as fine silk. He whispered icily into her ear. ¡°You¡¯re seeking death.¡± His fingers tightened, fury burning in his eyes, the terrifying aura around him suffocating. ¡°Dugu Wu, if I die, you will never be able to stand again in this lifetime.¡± Feng Bailing grabbed his hand, and his eyes deepened, but he did not exert additional force on her neck. ¡°Prince, your injury is severe, and all the physicians are at a loss.¡± ¡°The poison has already infected your lower body, even if your life is spared, you won¡¯t have a humane second half of your life.¡± Indeed, that¡¯s what the Imperial Hospital said. That¡¯s what Lu Yin said. Their eyes met. ¡°Do you really have a way?¡± Hostility emanated from Dugu Wu. ¡°Marry me, within a year I¡¯ll make you stand again.¡± Feng Bailing uttered just one sentence. She waited for the man to erupt in fury. ¡°Dream on.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s expression was dark as he glared at Feng Bailing. Last night, when Lu Yin saw his knee, he too exclaimed at the miraculous technique. Such a severe injury, and the woman in front of him allowed Dugu Wu to walk freely in an instant. But once the effect wore off, he would become crippled. Her medical skills were indeed rare in this world. Seeing the change in Dugu Wu¡¯s expression, Feng Bailing harbored some hope. One year is just one year, even if she can¡¯t cure him completely, he could still stand up. He is the Child of Aura! In one year¡¯s time, she just needed to completely recover her seventh sense, open all three layers of the emergency kit, and she could lead her family to self-reliance, leaving Great Chu. Feng Bailing thought to herself. ¡°Rest assured, I will only occupy the position of your Princess Consort for one year, and after one year, we will have nothing to do with each other. During this year, you must also accept my daughter; I just want her to experience fatherly love.¡± Feng Bailing recalled Xiao Li envying the harmonious family next door at Xiao Pang¡¯s house when they were at the Other Manor and couldn¡¯t help but feel sorrowful. Xiao Li liked Dugu Wu, and she liked Dugu Xiaojin. Seeing Dugu Xiaojin reminded her of her own lost son. ¡°Only one year?¡± Dugu Wu hesitated a bit. That little fat girl wasn¡¯t annoying. ¡°Within this year, I won¡¯t cheat on you, and you must adhere to monogamy and keep yourself pure!¡± The Emperor¡¯s aura is a good thing, in case someone else covets it. Feng Bailing rummaged through the room for brush and ink, wrote down her agreement with Dugu Wu, and after finishing, made a copy. Monogamy? Cheating? Feng Bailing¡¯s words made Dugu frown, but with his severe leg injury pressing on, he still signed and stamped the agreement with her. Feng Bailing carefully stored the pre-marital agreement close to her. What a peculiar woman. Dugu Wu glanced at her, that day, after she divorced Dongfang Li and walked out of the Ancestral Affairs Office, she tore the divorce papers to shreds. Back then, she was thrilled; she wanted to completely sever ties with her past. But at this moment, her brows were filled with joy. She schemed repeatedly, not even caring if she might be disabled, but still, she wanted to marry him; could it be that she truly had feelings for him? Dugu Wu narrowed his eyes. With his exceptional talents, he prided himself on never misjudging people, but he was unable to see through the woman before him. Feng Bailing began to check Dugu Wu¡¯s wounds. Upon examining, she sensed something bad. How had his injuries worsened so severely? Last time it was nerve damage, but this time even his knee joints were damaged; at this rate, he really would become crippled. ¡°Those people ambushed me on the eve of my breakthrough in the Wuji Golden Seal, causing Gang Qi backlash. I accidentally entered a delirious state and my body has not recovered since.¡± Seeing Feng Bailing¡¯s expression abruptly change, Dugu Wu explained. ¡°The Wuji Seal? What exactly is it?¡± Feng Bailing glanced at the center of Dugu Wu¡¯s brows, voicing the doubts in her heart. Like Jia Xiazhu, characters occasionally appeared on Dugu Wu¡¯s brows, except Jia Xiazhu had the character for ¡°fire¡±, and its color was darker than that on Dugu Wu¡¯s. ¡°You are of the Royal Family, don¡¯t you even know about the Wenhua Seal and Wuji Seal?¡± Dugu Wu gave her a piercing look. She truly is utterly useless. Feng Bailing¡¯s heart sunk, realizing it wasn¡¯t that she was uninformed, but that in her previous life¡¯s Great Chu, there was simply no mention of the Wenhua Seal and Wuji Seal. Chapter 22 - 22 22 The Little Dumpling Who is as Protective ?Chapter 22: Chapter 22: The Little Dumpling Who is as Protective as His Father Chapter 22: Chapter 22: The Little Dumpling Who is as Protective as His Father Feng Bailing, no matter how sheltered and uninformed she was, couldn¡¯t possibly miss such crucial information. After her rebirth, some things had changed, such as the appearance of Abnormal People with both Wenhua and Wuji Seals. In her previous life, there had been no one with both Wenhua and Wuji Seals. ¡°The Wenhua and Wuji Seals each come in five types: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, with the Earth Seal being the entry level and the Golden Seal the highest. Each advancement brings great fortune to a person. In Great Chu, as long as one forms any kind of seal, they will receive significant attention from the Royal Family.¡± As for what kind of great fortune it was, Dugu Wu hadn¡¯t had the chance to elaborate when Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s little head peeked in from the doorway. Someone was coming. ¡°Your injury is a bit tricky; the sealing needle can¡¯t be used too often. I¡¯ll go back to study your medical case and then figure out a way to treat you.¡± Feng Bailing was still pondering the matter of the Wenhua and Wuji Seals and hastily reminded Dugu Xiaojin, planning to leave with him. Xiaojin¡¯s wound had only had simple bandaging; it would be best to get a tetanus shot. ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, how do I usually teach you?¡± Dugu Wu gave his son a sidelong glance. He wasn¡¯t a meticulous father and was often away on military campaigns, but that didn¡¯t mean he didn¡¯t care about his son. Dugu Xiaojin stood stiffly, his round little face frozen, standing at attention rigidly. Feng Bailing silently compared Dugu Xiaojin with Feng Xiaoli in her mind, ah, better not, it would hurt her own self-esteem. ¡°I¡¯ve taught you that if you can¡¯t bear it anymore, even if the other person is the God Emperor, hit first, talk later.¡± Dugu Wu frowned deeply, wishing educating his son were as easy as commanding troops. His son, a child prodigy, learned to read the characters from the Three Character Classic before he was one, recited the Four Books and Five Classics at two, and now at only three... the Imperial Academy¡¯s Sacrificial Officer Guo had declared that he would be able to form a Wenhua Seal by the following year. To form a Wenhua Seal at four would be unparalleled in Great Chu. But Dugu Xiaojin had two significant flaws: he was taciturn and afraid of women, no matter how Dugu Wu tried to guide him, it was to no avail. Dugu Xiaojin thought he was going to be scolded, but instead, his eyes lit up, he nodded vigorously, right, next time he would surely strike with respect! Just as Feng Bailing and Dugu Xiaojin stepped out of the side hall, they were met head-on by a group of female relatives, with a gorgeously dressed beauty in the lead looking somewhat like Dongfang Li, her face radiant and her phoenix eyes arrogant. That was Noble Princess Consort Xiao, Dongfang Li¡¯s mother. Despite having given birth to two children, she remained charming and highly favored. Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s family was from the Pingnan General Mansion, once a standout before Dugu Wu¡¯s rise. After the meteoric rise of the newcomer Dugu Wu, the splendor of the Pingnan General Mansion faded. Consequently, the Xiao Family had always seen Dugu Wu as a thorn in their side. Following Noble Princess Consort Xiao was Feng Xiangxue. Feng Xiangxue, having made no impression at the Spring Banquet, was not content to be outshone and hence, paid a visit to Noble Princess Consort Xiao, seizing the opportunity to exaggerate the story of Feng Bailing calling off her engagement. Upon hearing this, Noble Princess Consort Xiao was incensed that Feng Bailing dared to plot against her son! ¡°Sister Ling, what are you doing here? Isn¡¯t Prince Dugu here recovering? Alone with a man, could it be that you...?¡± Her suggestive pause implied as if Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu had engaged in some sordid affair. ¡°You shameless thing, engaging in licentious acts in broad daylight within the court. Guards, take her away and administer twenty strokes of the cane.¡± Hearing Feng Xiangxue¡¯s insinuations, Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s tone suddenly rose, deeply offended that Feng Bailing¡ªthe good-for-nothing freak¡ªhad rejected her son¡¯s marriage, and that her own son Dongfang Li had suffered terribly because of it. She was determined to vent her son¡¯s grievances. ¡°Noble Princess Consort Xiao, how can you spout such slander? I merely happened to come across Young Heir Dugu who had lost his way and escorted him here.¡± Feng Bailing was followed closely by Dugu Xiaojin, who dutifully popped his head out. Noble Princess Consort Xiao was struggling to save face, as a Noble Princess Consort could hardly allow a young girl to leave her in disgrace. ¡°Still daring to talk back? Slap her mouth.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao didn¡¯t care if it was true or not; she simply wanted to find an excuse to punish Feng Bailing. Here in the harem, besides the Empress Dowager and the Empress, she was the only Noble Princess Consort and thus held the most authority. Princess Yong¡¯an¡¯s status was awkward, and her Prince Consort was not influential; even if Feng Bailing were crippled or killed, no one would seek justice for her. Noble Princess Consort Xiao gave a signal with her eyes, and two eunuchs behind her lunged towards Feng Bailing like starving wolves. But before the eunuchs could lay their hands on Feng Bailing, one of them cried out in pain, his face twisted in agony as he was tripped by a small, stocky leg and fell to the ground. The remaining eunuch saw a blur before his eyes, only to find a small figure standing in front of Feng Bailing, seizing his arm. Tolerating no further, strike first, talk later. A cracking sound was heard, and that eunuch let out a pig-like scream. His arm was broken by Dugu Xiaojin. The eunuch lying on the ground was also paralyzed, unable to move; his leg bone had been broken. Dugu Xiaojin had transformed into someone else, all traces of cuteness disappeared without a trace from his face. Dugu Xiaojin was a very obedient child, using what his father said there and then. In fact, he had overheard everything outside; his father wanted to marry Feng Bailing. Unlike the previous times, this time, Dugu Xiaojin was very happy. In his view, Feng Bailing was different from other women. Apart from his father, she was the first person who dared to look him in the eye and talk to him, and her touch did not cause him to break out in rashes. Noble Princess Consort Xiao, under Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s intense gaze, felt all the hairs on her body stand on end. Clearly, he was just a three-year-old child, but why was his presence so similar to that of his father? But Noble Princess Consort Xiao was, after all, a Noble Princess Consort who had seen many grand scenes, and she quickly calmed down. ¡°Heir Dugu, don¡¯t be deceived by her, she¡¯s not a good woman at all. Just yesterday, she was someone else¡¯s fiance?e, and today she¡¯s here to deceive your father.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao wore a kind and amiable expression. Dugu Xiaojin clenched his small fists, and with a series of popping sounds, he shook his head, indicating disbelief. ¡°How could I deceive you? Her fiance? is my son, Dongfang Li. She doesn¡¯t even want a Prince; how could she want your father? Could your father possibly be stronger than my son?¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao said persuasively. Dugu Xiaojin unceremoniously nodded. His father was the most powerful man in the world. ¡°You dare to say my son is inferior to Dugu Wu!¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao was nettled by Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s actions. ¡°He really is inferior. At the age of ten, Dugu Wu mastered the military strategies of the world. At fourteen, he donned armor and killed enemies, capturing ten cities from the rival nation in his first battle, his fame spreading far and wide. At twenty, he was ennobled as a Prince. May I ask, Noble Princess Consort Xiao, what has your twenty-one-year-old son, Dongfang Li, accomplished?¡± Feng Bailing didn¡¯t hold back and continued to provoke deliberately! Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s face turned red with effort as she wracked her brain for a retort to the taunting from the young and the old. ¡°Feng Bailing, in your eyes, am I so worthless?¡± From behind, came a voice, suppressed with anger. Chapter 23 - 23 23 The Ninth Prince His Teas Aroma ?Chapter 23: Chapter 23 The Ninth Prince His Tea¡¯s Aroma Chapter 23: Chapter 23 The Ninth Prince His Tea¡¯s Aroma Dongfang Li never expected that he would be deemed so incompetent in Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes. His chest filled with rage that surged upwards; he was a son of the imperial family¡ªthere was no need for him to go to battle and kill enemies. What the Ninth Prince said was quite right; some people are born to be subjects, expected to shed their blood and sacrifice their heads for their monarchs, while others are born monarchs, high above the rest. He strode forward, his handsome face carried an air of arrogance spelled in bold. ¡°Feng Bailing, you think just because you got close to Dugu Wu, you have the upper hand? You¡¯re so unlucky; the man you set your eyes on has a crippled leg. He has to lie down for the rest of his life, unable to lead a normal life. Staying with him, you can only be a widow.¡± Thinking that Dugu Wu would never be able to turn things around, Dongfang Li was in high spirits. Dugu Wu was seriously injured and was reportedly unconscious; the Imperial Hospital was at its wit¡¯s end with no cure in sight. The news spread rapidly throughout the palace, much to the delight of the princes. Being the son of a Prince, Dugu Wu had enjoyed more glory over the years than any of these legitimate princes. Under her veil, Feng Bailing¡¯s face turned somewhat pale. She didn¡¯t care what this man was saying; what she cared about was that it would hurt Dugu Xiaojin. Dugu Xiaojin bit her lip, her eyes brimming with tears. No, Father Emperor would not be disabled. He was brave and intelligent, but ultimately still just a child. After the Spring Banquet ended, the eunuchs and palace maids looked at him with different eyes. ¡°Dongfang Li, have you said enough?¡± Anger flared in Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes. Dongfang Li thought he¡¯d feel smug; yet seeing her reaction, he felt somewhat unsettled. What was this attitude? She should have acted submissive, begged him with her sweet, soft voice, and he might have forgiven her. ¡°I must say, Dugu Wu can¡¯t perform humanely; he¡¯s just a cripple...¡± He was about to repeat the ¡®cripple¡¯ word, but then Dongfang Li became speechless. His face stiffened, as if he had seen a ghost. Which bastard had told him that Dugu Wu was unconscious? The man, tall and imposing, leaned against the door, like an eagle perched high in the sky, those heterochromic eyes that struck fear into countless individuals fixed on Dongfang Li, his lips curved into a mocking smile that felt like a flaying knife. Inch by inch, it tore the skin, picked the tendons, separated the bones, shredding Dongfang Li¡¯s arrogance to pieces. ¡°Are you so concerned about her future happiness, Seventh Prince?¡± A hand suddenly appeared around Feng Bailing¡¯s waist, pulling her dominantly into an embrace. The man¡¯s robust scent enveloped her, while Feng Bailing, nestled like a small bird in Dugu Wu¡¯s arms, her red dress and his black attire, together with a little Dugu Xiaojin, made them look harmonious like a family! It was unbearable to watch¡ªhow irritating! Dongfang Li almost burst from anger. Dongfang Li was already shorter than Dugu Wu and now, pressed down by the other¡¯s imposing presence, he found it hard even to lift his head. He looked down and noticed something odd about Dugu Wu¡¯s leg. ¡°Dugu Wu, stop pretending. You¡¯ve been poisoned severely and barely managing to stand; now even gods can¡¯t save you.¡± Dongfang Li took pleasure in his misfortune. Isn¡¯t that the truth, even gods can¡¯t save him, but I can. Feng Bailing thought silently; her emergency box could not yet provide artificial joints, but maybe in a year¡¯s time, it could. Dugu Wu lifted his eyes, the wildness in his demeanor vanishing without a trace. With a self-mocking smile, his expression a mix of three parts disheartened and seven parts sorrowful, ¡°The Seventh Prince is right; a subject I already am, less useful than even ants, of no use to Great Chu, the Emperor, or the people.¡± ¡°People value self-awareness; you are merely a dog raised by my Father Emperor.¡± Dongfang Li, upon seeing Dugu Wu submit to him, felt sweet joy as if his heart were filled with honey. He is Dugu Wu, revered by the people of Great Chu as the Ninth Prince, occupying a lofty position, so much so that even the Father Emperor shows him some deference. Such a person, now before him, is as lowly as a dog. ¡°Prince! Stop talking immediately!¡± Behind him, Noble Princess Consort Xiao inhaled sharply, but it was too late. A gust of wind struck, and Dongfang Li, caught off guard, fell face-first into the dirt. ¡°Who the hell dares to kick...¡± Dongfang Li began to curse as he looked up, but he was completely taken aback. In the brilliant yellow Dragon Robe, Emperor Yongye glared furiously at Dongfang Li. Around him, including Noble Princess Consort Xiao and others, as well as Feng Bailing and Dugu Xiaojin, knelt in a line, and Dugu Wu struggled to salute. ¡°Dugu, you are exempt from salutations.¡± Emperor Yongye never expected this unfilial son to utter such outrageous disrespect. Dugu Wu boldly stood up and even lifted Feng Bailing, using her as a crutch, comfortably leaning on her, which angered her to throw him a daggering look. Looking at his face, there was not a hint of the expected dejection or despair. How infuriating! He must have sensed Emperor Yongye¡¯s arrival earlier; after all, his martial skills endowed him with sharp senses. ¡°Drag him out and give him twenty lashes.¡± Emperor Yongye, with a grim expression, gritted his teeth. Upon hearing this, Noble Princess Consort Xiao pleaded, ¡°Your Majesty, Li¡¯er is about to undergo the Gathering Seal; he cannot be injured, please spare him this once.¡± Emperor Yongye knitted his brows. The crucial time for the Wuji Seal was near; one must not get angry, as it could adversely affect the Gathering Seal, delaying it at best, or at worst, rendering it impossible to achieve in this lifetime. After all, Dongfang Li was still a beloved son of Emperor Yongye. ¡°Your Majesty, I am already crippled and unable to further assist Your Majesty. Please grant me permission to resign from my positions as Commander of the Imperial Army, Order Keeper of the Ancestral Affairs Office, and command of the Chu East and Chu West armies.¡± Dugu Wu said gravely. Hearing this, Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression darkened yet again. Dugu Wu was the military god of the Great Chu; with him in command, the frontiers of Great Chu could remain secured for another day. If he were to step down, who could fend off the thousands of foes? His sons were so eager to see Dugu Wu relinquish his power and take over. Were they even worthy? Ever since the Crown Prince¡¯s incident, over these years, Emperor Yongye had heavily relied on Dugu Wu. On one side due to Dugu Wu¡¯s exceptional capabilities, and on the other, because the Princes were continually scheming against each other. Employing Dugu Wu was a cost-effective transaction to keep the Princes in check. Imperial power tactics, those little bastards simply didn¡¯t understand! Even though he felt that Dugu Wu was becoming too powerful and had plans to gradually sideline Dugu Wu, it shouldn¡¯t have been revealed by Dongfang Li, otherwise, wouldn¡¯t it dishearten the hearts of Great Chu¡¯s officials? ¡°Drag the Seventh Prince away, and give him fifty lashes.¡± Emperor Yongye flung his Dragon Robe and, ignoring Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s desperate pleas, commanded that Dongfang Li be dragged away. ¡°Dugu, you should recover well. As for the affairs of the Imperial Army and Ancestral Affairs Office, I approve. We will discuss your resignation from the military later.¡± Emperor Yongye reassured him. ¡°My lord, there is another matter. Earlier at the Spring Banquet, in my confusion, I declined a favorable marriage. Just now, I and Miss Feng exchanged true feelings and discovered our mutual affection. Please, Your Majesty, grant us your blessing...¡± As Dugu Wu finished speaking, he looked up to see Nalan Yan¡¯er gazing sorrowfully at him. Chapter 24 - 24 24 Double Happiness for Feng Bailing ?Chapter 24: Chapter 24: Double Happiness for Feng Bailing Chapter 24: Chapter 24: Double Happiness for Feng Bailing Nalan Yan¡¯er never expected to hear Dugu Wu say such things to another woman in person. Just three years, and he had changed his heart. Was he going to marry a woman like Bai Ling, who had nothing noteworthy about her? She must not let their marriage happen! Nalan Yan¡¯er thought of several people who had grudges against Bai Ling, planning to use them well. Outside the side hall, Dugu Wu¡¯s heartfelt words were moving. Among the women present, even Noble Princess Consort Xiao couldn¡¯t help but be touched. It was also the first time Feng Xiangxue clearly saw what Dugu Wu looked like; he was even more outstanding than the Seventh Prince. Such a person, he actually wants to marry Bai Ling? But then again, he is impotent and disabled, having just lost his power, and Bai Ling marrying him would only bring ridicule. He has also jinxed three previous princess consorts to death; it was questionable if Bai Ling would even live to marry him. Thinking of these, Feng Xiangxue suddenly felt pleased. ¡°You two are mutually in love, I will approve your marriage. Someone, help Dugu into the house and take good care of him.¡± Emperor Yongye, however, was secretly observing Bai Ling. Although he was Bai Ling¡¯s uncle, Emperor Yongye wasn¡¯t particularly close to her. Bai Ling¡¯s mother was Princess Yong¡¯an, the late Emperor¡¯s youngest and most favored daughter, and her mother came from the married-off princess of the Beiqi Dynasty, with the current monarch of Beiqi still being blood-related to Bai Ling. Beiqi and Great Chu had been at war for many years; despite having treaties, they gleefully engaged in both open and covert conflicts, with Beiqi spies constantly infiltrating Chu Country. The former Bai Ling was foolish and plump, nothing like the royal family. She was infatuated with Dongfang Li and bothered the Empress Dowager to bestow her marriage, which was why the Emperor did not favor her. Emperor Yongye didn¡¯t even remember what Bai Ling looked like, only knowing her appearance was dreadful, which caused Dongfang Li to despise her. But today, Bai Ling¡¯s performance made Emperor Yongye see her in a new light; that dance was exquisite. Thinking about how his sons were again causing troubles in the dark, and the issue with Beiqi... Emperor Yongye was extremely frustrated. Noble Princess Consort Xiao stepped forward attentively, yet received a stern look from Emperor Yongye. ¡°Bai Ling, you attend to me.¡± Overwhelmed with favor, Bai Ling asked Dugu Xiaojin to accompany Dugu Wu while she followed Emperor Yongye to the Imperial Study. Feng Xiangxue watched, full of jealousy. Being summoned by the Emperor was such an honor, but the Emperor¡¯s mind was hard to predict; one wrong word from Bai Ling and no one could save her. An hour passed, Bai Ling stood by in the Imperial Study. Emperor Yongye was reviewing documents. ¡°Today¡¯s assassin, it has been confirmed as a spy from Beiqi.¡± Finally, Emperor Yongye¡¯s deep voice reached her ears. Bai Ling¡¯s heart skipped a beat. The assassin had already been executed, even if there were doubts, there couldn¡¯t be concrete evidence; Emperor Yongye must be trapping her. He suspected her of colluding with Beiqi, planning today¡¯s assassination as a deviant scheme to save him. All manner of thoughts flashed through her mind, and abruptly she looked up and blurted out, ¡°Uncle!¡± ¡°How dare you!¡± Chief Eunuch Li Qing, serving by Emperor Yongye, scolded. ¡°Indeed, you are my niece.¡± Emperor Yongye tossed the document, his face showing a hint of sigh. This child also shares the same blood as him, if only a fraction. He had already planned to get rid of the Yong¡¯an Princess Mansion; Li disliked Bai Ling, and he didn¡¯t want to mistreat his own son, just waiting to find the secret order... But now, Bai Ling saved the Empress Dowager and called him ¡®uncle¡¯. ¡°You, as a member of the royal family, should share the worries of the dynasty. Do you know why I am willing to bestow the marriage between you and Dugu Wu?¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s words made Bai Ling¡¯s back break out in goosebumps. This is the nature of the supreme ruler. ¡°This humble royalty dares not presume the thoughts of the monarch.¡± Bai Ling spoke loudly. ¡°Minister Feng has taught your brothers and sisters well. I admire you, so I¡¯m bestowing this marriage upon you. Marry into the Prince Mansion quickly and take good care of Dugu, should anything happen to him, inform me immediately. Of course, I will also help oversee the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s voice was gentle, making him seem like a compassionate monarch. But upon hearing this, Bai Ling felt as if a bucket of ice water was poured over her, chilling to the bone. Bai Ling thought of Feng Zhanlian. The Emperor¡¯s bestowing her marriage was like Feng Zhanlian¡¯s previous marriage to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. She became the second Feng Zhanlian, monitoring everything about Dugu Wu. Although she had lived again in this lifetime, Bai Ling didn¡¯t understand until today how Feng Zhanlian, a mere son-in-law, managed to commit outrages in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, with the Princess¡¯ mother helpless against him. At this moment, she understood. The real reason Feng Zhanlian dared to favor concubines over his wife, ruining the Princess¡¯ Mansion, was not because of Dongfang Li, but the Emperor of Great Chu before her. The Princess¡¯ Mansion deserved death, as their blood was of the enemy nation. Bai Ling respectfully acknowledged, and Emperor Yongye nodded contentedly. ¡°Li Qing, draft the decree. For Bai Ling¡¯s meritorious deeds in saving the dowager, endowed with both virtue and talent, confer the title of Princess Shengping, reward a hundred taels of gold, and fifty palace silks.¡± Taking the sacred decree, Bai Ling sneered internally; it seemed she and Dugu Wu had become a difficult couple, given Emperor Yongye¡¯s scheming against the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she had to cure Dugu Wu! Chapter 25 - 25 25 The Palace Steward with a Sty ?Chapter 25: Chapter 25: The Palace Steward with a Sty Chapter 25: Chapter 25: The Palace Steward with a Sty ¡°Congratulations, Princess Shengping.¡± Upon exiting the Imperial Study, Eunuch Chief Li Qing saw Feng Bailing out. ¡°Thank you, Chief Li. Chief Li, I notice the skin under your eyes is red and swollen; could it be a sty?¡± Feng Bailing held the imperial edict in her hand, her tone filled with concern. Li Qing, an old servant by Emperor Yongye¡¯s side, was somewhat older than the Emperor, about fifty or sixty years old. He was also the foremost among the three major eunuch chiefs in the palace, yet he was very modest, his deep purple eunuch uniform washed pale, usually tight-lipped but deeply trusted by Emperor Yongye. Feng Bailing clearly remembered, when Princess Yong¡¯an passed away, no one from the palace came, only Li Qing, following the Empress Dowager¡¯s orders, escorted Dongfang Lianhua on her final journey, which was the last dignity afforded to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Li Qing, in his high position, had endless people currying favor with him; his impression of Feng Bailing was neutral, but her actions today surprised him. Emperor Yongye was indeed harboring murderous intentions. At that moment, Feng Bailing¡¯s call of ¡®Uncle¡¯ made Emperor Yongye hesitate. This question from Feng Bailing took Li Qing by surprise. ¡°Thank you for your concern, Princess. I¡¯ve been unable to open my eyes since a couple of days ago, and despite receiving medicine from the Imperial Hospital, it has not improved.¡± ¡°I happen to have a traditional remedy; Chief Li, you might consider taking herbs like gentian, bupleurum, scutellaria, and gardenia to brew tea, have two doses a day, abstain from greasy meat, and you should recover in no more than five days.¡± Feng Bailing recalled the treatment method for a sty. ¡°Does the Princess also understand pharmacology?¡± Li Qing was slightly astonished; this was the well-known Feng Sanwu, yet she surprisingly knew about medical skills. ¡°My mother is in poor health; as her daughter, I also want to lighten her burdens, having spent recent years recuperating in the Other Manor, illness turned me to medicine, thus I learned somewhat.¡± Feng Bailing responded flawlessly. ¡°Your filial piety is commendable, hopefully, Princess Yong¡¯an recovers soon.¡± Li Qing noted down the prescription. He had watched Dongfang Lianhua grow up and marry, lived in luxury when the late Emperor was alive; after marriage, she gradually withered, hopefully, her children would be ambitious. Approaching the palace gate, snow began to flutter down from the sky. However, the Coachman was nowhere to be found. Upon asking the guards, Feng Bailing learned that the Feng Mansion¡¯s horse carriage had taken Feng Xiangxue back, her eyebrows raised slightly. Feng Xiangxue clearly did it on purpose. She had also heard from Li Qing that after Dongfang Li suffered fifty lashes, his flesh was split, tendons possibly injured, making the Wuji Seal likely impossible to solidify. ¡°Lady Feng, my master asks, would you like a ride back?¡± A green-clad servant ran over. In the snowy ground, a horse carriage was parked. With two lean white horses in front of the carriage and the grey curtain embroidered with a longevity bat pattern, the whole carriage appeared quite understated and elegant, unnoticeable as a Prince¡¯s carriage if not for the Royal Family¡¯s emblem fluttering on the banner in front at first glance. Ninth Prince Dongfang Mosheng lifted the carriage curtain, revealing half of his face, giving a slight nod in Feng Bailing¡¯s direction. The grey mist in his eyes made his complexion even paler, only a drop of blood mole adding a bit of enchantment. ¡°Ah Ling, the road is icy and cold, why not take the carriage? I will take you back.¡± Before today, Feng Bailing and Dongfang Mosheng seldom interacted. Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s health was poor, usually staying in Qian Residence, and only in recent years did he begin to be active. Feng Bailing, post-childbirth, stayed in the Other Manor, the two perfectly missed each other. At the Spring Banquet, when he gracefully played a melody for her, they just started to develop a friendship. Feng Bailing hesitated for a moment, then suddenly heard the sound of horses snorting behind her. The clattering of horse hooves and the squeaking of compressed snow beneath the carriage wheels echoed as two black steeds galloped out of the palace gate. These two majestic horses were robust and tall, exhaling white mist from their nostrils, their glossy black coats gleaming, spewing gusts of snow dust wherever their hooves touched. ¡°Get off.¡± The man¡¯s voice carried a tone of arrogant languor. From the carriage, with a rattle, a man in scholar attire was thrown out. With delicate features, the man sprawled on the snowy ground, still clutching a medical kit. ¡°You blame me for your hurt leg? I¡¯ve told you before, don¡¯t act rashly, but you wouldn¡¯t listen. Disregarding Lu Yin¡¯s advice will sooner or later cripple you.¡± Lu Yin felt his luck was far from good, suffering hardships ever since following Dugu Wu. Just days ago, he was chased by the Xingxiu Sect and now thrown off the carriage in this bitter cold. This man, since being poisoned, has acted oddly¡ªagreeable one moment and throwing him out the next. He is the top Divine Doctor of Great Chu, and he has his pride. ¡°Eh, you are Feng Sanwu?¡± Lu Yin adjusted his hat and turned to find Feng Bailing in red attire. Feng Sanwu ¨C that was the nickname given to Feng Bailing in the circles of Chu City. ¡°Get on the carriage.¡± Dugu Wu glanced up, his expression colder than the midwinter breeze. Grumbling to himself, Lu Yin thought this guy must finally be seeing sense. Just about to step on the carriage, Dugu Wu¡¯s icy gaze met him again. Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s radish head poked out from the corner of the carriage curtain, he quickly hopped down, his small legs thumping as he ran up to Feng Bailing, handing her a little hand-warmer. ¡°Let¡¯s go back together.¡± The hand-warmer, truly warm. Feng Bailing simply couldn¡¯t refuse Dugu Xiaojin. From another carriage not far away. Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s face always wore a faint smile. As the greatly revered Ninth Prince, Dugu Wu¡¯s carriage was far superior even to many belonging to the Royal Family. Even though Dongfang Mosheng couldn¡¯t see it, he imagined inside the carriage were carpets of Siberian tiger fur, soft and warm, constructed of fragrant pine wood, not only spacious but also with a subtle scent of pine. In the bitter winter, with stoves front and back¡ªcompared to this, Dongfang Mosheng felt his own small carriage was drafty. Feng Bailing gave Dongfang Mosheng a slight apologetic bow. ¡°Thank you, Ninth Prince, I won¡¯t impose any further.¡± She picked up Dugu Xiaojin and boarded Dugu Wu¡¯s carriage. The carriages drifted away with a clatter, not just Dugu Wu¡¯s but also the Ninth Prince¡¯s. What sort of situation was this? So, he was kicked off the carriage to free up space? Lu Yin stood amidst the icy landscape, the north wind howling~ The two carriages went their separate ways, heading south and north on the road, parting ways completely. On the carriage, Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s handsome face continually wore a smile, as he drew a red plum blossom from his sleeve. It was the red plum that Feng Bailing had tucked behind his ear, his fingers like finely carved jade, setting off the delicate beauty of the plum. But in his eyes, a layer of deepening grey mist formed. Chapter 26 - 26 26 The Young Boy Protects His Mother ?Chapter 26: Chapter 26 The Young Boy Protects His Mother Chapter 26: Chapter 26 The Young Boy Protects His Mother Inside the horse carriage, it was warm and cozy. Dugu Wu leaned against the soft couch, pondering over Lu Yin¡¯s words. Lu Yin said that unless his leg was amputated, there would be no cure. ¡°A year to heal your leg? Ten years wouldn¡¯t be enough. Who could you possibly want to marry? You chose Feng Bailing. I know you can¡¯t forget that person, but you shouldn¡¯t be driven by sheer desperation. Feng Bailing is the daughter of Feng Zhanlian, a man who lives off his wife and loves to attach himself to the powerful, an utter vile character. Princess Yong¡¯an doesn¡¯t hold real power, and once Feng Xiangxue truly marries into the family, Princess Consort Shun, with her status-seeking eyes, will be the first to make a move against her!¡± Yet he, Dugu Wu, chose to believe in Feng Bailing. Dugu Xiaojin leaned into Feng Bailing¡¯s arms, perhaps exhausted, her eyelids drooping, her little head pecking like a chick dozing off from time to time. In his arms, he also held a dirty wolf cub, saying it was found and insisting on bringing it back no matter what. ¡°My father, Prince Shun, passed away thirteen years ago. He was Emperor Yongye¡¯s third brother, and I am the illegitimate son he raised outside. At ten, I was brought back to the Prince Mansion. Apart from me, there was also a Princess Consort in the Prince Mansion, and including the Princely Heir, there were four other brothers and sisters. I was away all year round and had not yet established a household, so the affairs of Prince Mansion were all managed by the Princess Consort.¡± Dugu Wu spoke in a tone as steady as the carriage rumbling beneath him. His fingers resting on his knee were a bit stiff. He wasn¡¯t good with dealing with women, especially in such cramped conditions. But the woman before him would become his wife before long. Feng Bailing differed greatly from the wife he had imagined. His ideal wife was supposed to be intelligent and gentle, but Feng Bailing¡ªwell, she was the polar opposite. It took Feng Bailing a while to come back to her senses. Dugu Wu was talking to her about his family matters. Surprisingly, the man did seem to show some sincerity. He did not mention his mother at all. The origins of Dugu Wu were a bit mysterious. He was born with heterochromia, and before he was brought back to the Prince Mansion, his background was a mystery. His father, Prince Shun, was the late Emperor¡¯s third son and the Empress Dowager¡¯s child. Just like Dugu Wu, Prince Shun was also a valiant warrior in his youth, with illustrious military achievements, but he had no desire for titles. The late Emperor once intended to pass the throne to him, but he yielded it to Emperor Yongye instead. Rumors had always circulated in the streets that Prince Shun¡¯s untimely death was related to Emperor Yongye, and it wasn¡¯t until Dugu Wu rose in prominence and was conferred the title of Prince that these rumors began to fade away. On this journey, Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu talked back and forth; Feng Bailing got a general understanding of the affairs of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. In the midst of their conversation, the carriage arrived outside Feng Mansion. ¡°The marriage will be arranged by the Princess Consort.¡± Although he had married three Princess Consorts, Dugu Wu was away all year round, and on two occasions he was not even in Chu City for the wedding ceremonies; everything was handled solely by the Princess Consort Shun. Outside the carriage, they heard the sound of approaching hooves. Feng Bailing lifted the carriage curtain, preparing to disembark, just as the Feng Mansion¡¯s carriage happened to stop outside the mansion¡¯s gates. Feng Xiangxue had left for the Imperial Palace earlier than Feng Bailing, but their carriages were different, and the sisters of the Feng Family arrived at Feng Mansion simultaneously. Today at the Imperial Palace, Feng Xiangxue endured much humiliation. The man she fancied, Dongfang Li, was beaten for no reason, and when she wished to visit him, she was scolded viciously by Noble Princess Consort Xiao. All because of Feng Bailing. Sitting in the carriage on her way back, Feng Xiangxue knew that Feng Bailing was weak after childbirth and if she caught a cold, she would definitely fall seriously ill. With a bit of tampering in her medicines, it would not be long before Feng Bailing met her demise. ¡°Miss, there¡¯s a carriage blocking the mansion¡¯s gate.¡± Agitated, Feng Xiangxue pushed aside the curtain and saw Feng Bailing, then noticed the carriage in front of her was far more luxurious than the Feng Mansion¡¯s carriage. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Sister Ling? I waited for you at the palace gate for a long time and didn¡¯t see you come out. It seems you¡¯ve casually hopped into someone else¡¯s carriage,¡± accused Feng Xiangxue. She had not yet had the chance to see the crest on that luxurious carriage. Just as Dugu Xiaojin was about to lean out to bid farewell to Feng Bailing, he overheard the remark, and a flicker of disgust passed through the little one¡¯s deep, piercing eyes. Stealthily, little Xiaojin¡¯s hand reached towards the horse¡¯s back. The horse was behaving, but with a gentle stroke from him, it suddenly let out a long sigh. The horse that Dugu Wu drove loved military horses; fast and unruly, just like his own temperament. The horse¡¯s hooves kicked high, striking the Feng Mansion¡¯s horse. The Feng Mansion¡¯s carriage was no match for the warhorse¡¯s ramming, and as the coachman tumbled with the vehicle, Feng Xiangxue, who was leaning out to speak, was crushed underneath the overturned carriage. ¡°It¡¯s terrible! The second miss has been crushed under the carriage!¡± Inside Feng Mansion, chaos ensued. By the time Feng Zhanlian rushed out upon hearing the commotion, the carriage had already been moved. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s leg was broken, and she wailed in pain, while the unfortunate coachman was trampled to death by the horse¡¯s hooves. ¡°Who dares be so bold to let horses run wild outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion? Do you know who is in that carriage? That is Princess Shengping, newly titled by the Emperor.¡± Feng Zhanlian was shaking his whiskers with anger. Although he did not enter the palace, he had already received the news. He heard that the Princess¡¯ Mansion celebrated a great joy, that his daughter stole the show at the Spring Banquet and saved Empress Dowager, earning herself the title of Commandery Princess. In Feng Zhanlian¡¯s mind, it was naturally Feng Xiangxue who stood out. As for Feng Bailing, it was lucky enough that she didn¡¯t embarrass herself. ¡°This one is the real Princess Shengping.¡± A young voice with a touch of coolness interrupted Feng Zhanlian¡¯s words. astonished, Feng Zhanlian saw a little boy standing there. Feng Bailing had just stepped out of the carriage. ¡°Where did this child come from, spouting nonsense?¡± said Feng Zhanlian, obviously in disbelief, glaring at Feng Bailing. ¡°Feng Bailing, as the elder sister, you failed to look after your younger sister. Do you realize your mistake?¡± Feng Zhanlian saw Feng Bailing unharmed, then looked at his second daughter, who had broken her leg and passed out, feeling both pained and angry. ¡°Does the Prince Consort have any grievances against my son?¡± A cold sneer sounded. As soon as Dugu Wu appeared with that face colder than thousand-year-old ice, Feng Zhanlian¡¯s knees trembled uncontrollably, and he knelt down without hesitation. ¡°Ninth Prince!¡± Chapter 27 - 27 27 Her Number One Little Mystery Brother ?Chapter 27: Chapter 27: Her Number One Little Mystery Brother Appears Chapter 27: Chapter 27: Her Number One Little Mystery Brother Appears A higher officialdom crushes the one beneath, though Dugu Wu resigned from some positions, he did not lose the title of Prince. Feng Zhanlian, a minor official of mere fifth-rank, could hardly stand his ground when facing Dugu Wu. In the cold wind, a group from Feng Mansion knelt on the ground, pitiable that Feng Xiangxue had a broken leg and was lying in the snow. ¡°Congratulations to the Prince Consort, Lady Feng has been granted the title of Princess Shengping, I have come especially to offer my congratulations.¡± Dugu Wu raised his eyebrows. Feng Zhanlian was flattered and alarmed; this man was notoriously difficult to serve, and in previous encounters, didn¡¯t even spare him a glance. But the next moment, Feng Zhanlian came to his senses, realizing that it was actually Feng Bailing who had been granted the title of Commandery Princess! Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face instantly looked as if he were at a funeral. One Princess in the household was not enough, now there was a Commandery Princess too? Both held ranks higher than his! ¡°Thank you, Your Highness, my daughter has limited talents, it¡¯s fortunate that she has not brought shame upon the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± ¡°Are you implying that my Princess Consort is foolish?¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s voice was unfriendly. Feng Zhanlian felt his brain had been numbed by the cold wind, unable to comprehend the Ninth Prince¡¯s words. ¡°The Emperor just granted the marriage, Your Highness and I are to be married today.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s words left Feng Zhanlian thoroughly confounded. Feng Zhanlian, a spy for Emperor Yongye, was very clear about the current political situation. In his ideal world, his son-in-law would be someone like Dongfang Li, with a prestigious status that could catapult him to greater heights. Not someone like Dugu Wu, a rebel and a traitor, whose actions might inadvertently lead to his own beheading! After father and son Dugu left, Feng Bailing shook the snow off her body and headed towards the firewood room. Inside the firewood room, Jia Xiazhu¡¯s small face looked pale as a ghost, reacting as if seeing a ghost upon seeing Feng Bailing. ¡°Who in the world are you?¡± ¡°Shouldn¡¯t the rules of worldly society dictate that you introduce yourself first?¡± Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but feel admiration upon seeing Jia Xiazhu speak with such vital energy. Having the Wuji Seal is indeed advantageous; such serious external injuries healed in just two days. Dugu Wu¡¯s constitution was also astonishing, and if it weren¡¯t for the complexity of the poison, he would have been able to stand as well. The Wuji Seal is a good thing, but one wonders how to gather it. ¡°I¡¯m Gong Zhu, a disciple of the Xingxiu Sect. Beyond that, I cannot say more.¡± Gong Zhu said, then clamped his mouth shut as if he were a clam. ¡°I am Feng Bailing, the rest, Xiazhu must have already informed you.¡± Feng Bailing also surmised that Xingxiu Sect must be a martial faction involved in shady dealings. She was interested in making connections with those in worldly society, as she would need them to handle some matters in the future. ¡°You are not Feng Bailing, no, you are Feng Bailing, there¡¯s no Disguise Technique that can deceive me.¡± Gong Zhu murmured. He excelled at various poisons and disguises, and Xiazhu had reported all of Feng Bailing¡¯s physical characteristics to him. ¡°Why did you attempt to assassinate Dugu Wu?¡± Feng Bailing probed. ¡°For money, and even more for fame.¡± Gong Zhu replied straightforwardly. ¡°Is he worth a lot?¡± Feng Bailing was aware that Dugu Wu had many enemies. ¡°His worth is immeasurable, and there¡¯s a bounty on the outside, his head is worth a hundred thousand taels of gold!¡± Gong Zhu¡¯s eyes gleamed. The greatest military god of Great Chu, bearing the Wuji Wood Seal, would gain worldwide renown if anyone killed him. There were many who wanted Dugu Wu dead, but no one had succeeded. The Xingxiu Sect had attempted to assassinate Dugu Wu ten times, nearly succeeding, but he had always managed to escape. ¡°Is the poison on him your doing?¡± Feng Bailing had never seen such a complex poison on Dugu Wu¡¯s body, and although she was proficient in medical arts from both east and west, she didn¡¯t know much about the poisons in this era. ¡°Only in part, Dugu Wu has been subjected to numerous assassination and poisoning attempts, the poison is cumulative, why do you ask so much?¡± Gong Zhu, when speaking of Dugu Wu, revealed a trace of admiration in his tone. ¡°To get to know my future husband better.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s words startled Gong Zhu. ¡°Are you really going to marry Dugu Wu, don¡¯t you know he¡¯s cursed three wives to death, and even his father?¡± ¡°My destiny is also strong, it¡¯s not certain yet who will curse whom to death.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s demeanor was composed and nonchalant. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that I might take you hostage to threaten Dugu Wu?¡± Gong Zhu¡¯s eyes shifted cunningly. ¡°Then let me be blunt with you, although you are a strong holder of the Wuji Seal, your body bears thirty-five hidden injuries, and should you leave the Princess¡¯ Mansion, within ten days, those old wounds will flare up and you will only have death awaiting you.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s lips curled slightly, revealing a chill in her smile. Gong Zhu¡¯s expression darkened. She had seen through his injuries at a glance. During many years at the Xingxiu Sect, he had escaped death several times, and although he had preserved his life, his hidden injuries persisted. The Evil of Constellation, that old fiend, didn¡¯t care about their life or death. He relied on the elixirs from the hands of the old fiend to stay alive. His escape from the Princess¡¯ Mansion was also to quickly return to the Xingxiu Sect to obtain the elixir. But within ten days, it was uncertain if he could make it back. ¡°Do you have a method to cure me?¡± Gong Zhu asked in a deep tone. ¡°Combining internal ingestion, external application, along with acupuncture, I can help disperse the internal blood stasis for you, but I never treat anyone for nothing.¡± Feng Bailing also had her principles when practicing medicine. ¡°What is your condition for saving me?¡± Gong Zhu was half-convinced about Feng Bailing¡¯s medical skill. His internal injuries had plagued him for many years, and if he could be healed, his body¡¯s Gang Qi might flow unimpeded, potentially leading to a breakthrough. ¡°Help me gather the Wuji Seal or the Wenhua Seal.¡± As soon as Feng Bailing finished speaking, Gong Zhu¡¯s mouth twitched viciously. ¡°Then let me die instead.¡± Despair was written all over Gong Zhu¡¯s face. How is it possible for a rooster to lay eggs, for an iron tree to bloom? ¡°Truly no method?¡± Feng Bailing was astonished. Having witnessed the effects of the Wuji Seal and the Wenhua Seal, naturally, she wanted to gather them as well. ¡°You¡¯ve already become a mother; you can¡¯t gather the seals anymore.¡± Gong Zhu¡¯s face was full of sympathy. Feng Bailing only then learned that there were limitations to gathering the Wenhua Seal and the Wuji Seal. Men have the Pure Yang Qi, women have Pure Yin Qi. Everyone has it, but only when they are virgins. Those like Dugu Wu and Nalan Yan¡¯er had already successfully gathered their seals as children. ¡°Let me take a look, in all likelihood, you will never be able to gather the seals in this lifetime.¡± As Gong Zhu spoke, he casually laid a hand on Feng Bailing¡¯s wrist, and his eyes instantly bulged in shock. Chapter 28 - 28 28 The Little Secret Inside Feng Bailings ?Chapter 28: Chapter 28 The Little Secret Inside Feng Bailing¡¯s Body Chapter 28: Chapter 28 The Little Secret Inside Feng Bailing¡¯s Body ¡°Your facial bumps are due to the Pure Yang Qi.¡± Gong Zhu pointed at Feng Bailing¡¯s bumpy face. Feng Bailing touched her face, which had become somewhat smoother recently due to skincare products and massages, and she believed it would completely calm down in a few days. She had always assumed it was caused by hormonal imbalance, but it turned out to be the Pure Yang Qi. According to traditional Chinese medicine, males are governed by Yang and females by Yin. ¡°Pure Yang Qi in a woman¡¯s body is poison. I¡¯ve never seen a woman survive with Pure Yang Qi in her body. You truly have a unique gift.¡± Gong Zhu circled around Feng Bailing, clicking his tongue in amazement. He had been taught various poisons and Poison Techniques by Evil of Constellation since he was a child. Others couldn¡¯t see it, but he could see that Feng Bailing was afflicted with the toxin of Pure Yang. ¡°If you can channel this Pure Yang Qi, you might even be able to condense it into a Seal. Being able to condense it into a Seal after becoming a mother would indeed be a great spectacle.¡± Gong Zhu¡¯s eyes blazed, staring at Feng Bailing¡¯s face. Upon closer inspection, he noticed that without those bumps, Feng Bailing was not ugly, even quite beautiful, especially her eyes. Unlike ordinary women, she never shied away when looking at someone; her gaze was frank and open. And her beautiful eyes made it hard for anyone to look away once they caught sight of her. Gong Zhu¡¯s heart thumped wildly for a moment, and he quickly averted his gaze. To cover the awkwardness, Gong Zhu shared a set of breathing exercises for the Gathering Seal with Feng Bailing. ¡°You help me with the Gathering Seal, and I¡¯ll help you eliminate your ailment.¡± True to her word, Feng Bailing focused her mind, and upon activating the Seventh Sense again, her medkit gained a set of acupuncture needles, which she began inserting into Gong Zhu. After the acupuncture, Gong Zhu felt his body¡¯s channels refreshingly clear. He trusted Feng Bailing¡¯s Medical Skill a bit more and no longer hid things from her. ¡°People have always been watching over the Princess¡¯ Mansion. However, strangely, those people withdrew in the afternoon.¡± Gong Zhu, skilled in Qinggong, crouched in the shadows, chewing on a chicken leg, and indeed spotted a few ¡°flies.¡± He didn¡¯t understand why a Princess¡¯ Mansion with so little authority still needed to be guarded so closely. Those people must be Emperor Yongye¡¯s men. Feng Bailing had a clear understanding in her heart. People withdrew in the afternoon because Emperor Yongye collaborated with Feng Bailing, trusting that she had become his spy. ¡°No need for you to watch over the Princess¡¯ Mansion anymore; you can resume normal activities. Remember to come back every half month for an acupuncture session. Also, I need your help to investigate someone¡ªNalan Yan¡¯er.¡± Feng Bailing took out a gold ingot she had just received. Gong Zhu was not shy; in his view, not talking about money was disrespectful. Speaking of Nalan Yan¡¯er, she was indeed a renowned figure in Great Chu. Since her childhood, she had condensed the Wenhua Seal and mastered arts like music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, setting a standard for eminent ladies in every nation, not to mention that her childbirth was accompanied by auspicious signs of dragons and phoenixes. Feng Bailing reflected on her past and realized her views on people and situations had been too one-sided. Whether it was Dongfang Li or Feng Xiangxue, she had always seen them as the main culprits, but now it seemed likely that they were just tools. The precautions Emperor Yongye took towards the Princess¡¯ Mansion and the relationship between Feng Xiangxue and Nalan Yan¡¯er were revelations after her rebirth. How could Feng Xiangxue, a mere concubine daughter, gain such special attention from Crown Princess Consort Nalan? She suspected that all these events were related to a secret decree held by her mother, Princess Yong¡¯an. After sending Gong Zhu away, Feng Bailing returned to the west wing, paid respects to Dongfang Lianhua, and relayed everything that had happened today to her. Dongfang Lianhua was informed that her daughter was titled Commandery Princess but did not look too pleased; on the contrary, Nanny Gui and a group of servants were overjoyed. ¡°Congratulations, Miss. The Emperor finally remembered you, his niece.¡± ¡°Miss marrying the Ninth Prince, soon to be a Princess Consort, could look down on those from the south wing who bully others.¡± ¡°Ah Ling, Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion is not an ordinary household, and I do not know if this marriage is good or bad. Moreover, you have always liked the Seventh Prince; it¡¯s mother who has dragged you down.¡± With her hands holding her daughter¡¯s, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s face clouded with worry. Noble Princess Consort Xiao and Emperor Yongye would never allow their beloved son to marry Ah Ling; it was originally the late Emperor¡¯s pity that brought about this marriage. Years ago, when Ah Ling did not understand the situation, Dongfang Lianhua, unwilling to break her daughter¡¯s heart, had always opposed the marriage. Feng Bailing measured Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s blood pressure again for her. Her blood pressure was stable, but her body was still weak and urgently needed medicinal tonics to replenish her energy. She dispatched Nanny Gui to fetch more ginseng while sitting beside Dongfang Lianhua. ¡°Mother, Ah Ling has grown up now, and all the past was due to my lack of understanding. There is another matter, something daughter has long wanted to tell you.¡± Cautiously, Feng Bailing recounted the events of the past four years to Dongfang Lianhua. The existence of Feng Xiaoli was also something Feng Bailing knew couldn¡¯t be kept hidden for long. Hearing this, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s face dramatically changed, and her blood pressure spiked suddenly too, causing Feng Bailing to hurriedly give her medication to take. Tears streamed down from Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s eyes. ¡°Ah Ling, what should we do? This marriage might cost you your life.¡± Which man in this world would accept a wife who lost her chastity before marriage? Dongfang Lianhua had never met Dugu Wu, and her impression of him was only that of a brutal, bloodthirsty man from the rumors, a man used to licking blood off his blade. With her daughter already having a child, if he were to find out, Ah Ling might be cleaved in two. ¡°Mother, Dugu Wu also has a son. I didn¡¯t blame him for losing his chastity before marriage, and not just once but three times, a real seasoned player, what right does he have to blame me? He has met Xiao Li, and Xiao Li really likes him. Our marriage is a contract, and after a year, we shall part ways as agreed, with no debts between us.¡± Dongfang Lianhua, a princess of the royal family, grew up listening to refined and elegant expressions; her daughter¡¯s words left her stunned. After a long while, she finally realized that her own Ah Ling was indeed different now. She thought about what was inappropriate yet felt that this version of Ah Ling was acceptable. ¡°Mother, do you have a secret edict from the late Emperor in your possession?¡± Feng Bailing changed the topic, wanting to ask about the very edict that brought disasters to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. For the sake of it, Dongfang Li caused her family to be wrecked. Emperor Yongye also dispatched people to secretly monitor the Princess¡¯ Mansion because of it. Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s tone was puzzled. ¡°I do not have any secret edict at hand.¡± Feng Bailing felt somewhat headache-ridden; she wanted to tell Dongfang Lianhua that for that edict, Feng Zhanlian and Dongfang Li put them in a deadly situation. ¡°Mother, you need to be cautious around the people from the Feng Mansion in the future, especially Feng Zhanlian.¡± ¡°Ah Ling, you have many misunderstandings with your father; he came to see me today to ask me to persuade you.¡± Dongfang Lianhua sighed softly, recalling when she first met Feng Zhanlian ¡ª he was talented and charming, and she fell for him instantly... Although their affection has faded, he is still the father of their children. Chapter 29 - 29 29 The Disaster Brought by Ginseng ?Chapter 29: Chapter 29: The Disaster Brought by Ginseng Chapter 29: Chapter 29: The Disaster Brought by Ginseng Feng Bailing understood that making the nanny realize Feng Zhanlian¡¯s true nature was not something that could be achieved overnight. Feng Bailing, worried about Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s health, did not say more. As for the secret imperial orders, judging from Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s demeanor, it appeared she truly did not know about this matter. After taking the medicine, Dongfang Lianhua fell asleep. Feng Bailing returned to the warm pavilion nearby, reciting the Gathering Seal Mantra given to her by Gong Zhu. She sat cross-legged on the soft couch, feeling the flow of her internal energy. ¡°If the Pure Yang Qi inside your body does not threaten your life, then guide this Pure Yang Qi to your Dantian. This process takes some time, do not rush it, once you have Qi in your Dantian, you¡¯ll have succeeded.¡± A night passed. When Feng Bailing woke up in the morning, her Dantian was still empty, but she had worked up a thin layer of sweat. She applied some skincare products to her face and drank some Job¡¯s Tears water for reducing swelling and whitening, then practiced a set of military boxing. By the end, another layer of sweat covered her. Under the effect of the seventh sense, her five senses were even keener. From the rooms, she heard the sound of weeping. Feng Bailing walked into the warm pavilion of the adjacent room and saw Nanny Gui, with her head bowed, half of her face swollen, and a few servants beside her wiping their tears in anger. ¡°Miss, this old servant is useless; I couldn¡¯t get the ginseng. The quartermaster, Ding San, said that since the youngest miss broke her leg, the south wing just requisitioned the last century-old ginseng. To get ginseng, the west wing must buy it with our own funds.¡± How much monthly salary does the west wing receive? The Princess has been ill for years, spending money like flowing water; they have long been out of funds. ¡°Which Ding San?¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s beautiful eyes narrowed. ¡°It¡¯s the one the Matriach brought from her old home, and if you trace it back, he¡¯s your distant cousin.¡± No sooner had Nanny Gui finished speaking than she saw Feng Bailing heading towards the storeroom. The Matriach, who was Feng Zhanlian¡¯s mother, had been a widow in her early years, raising her two sons by herself. Her life¡¯s ambition was to become a noble Lady by imperial decree. After Feng Zhanlian married into the Princess¡¯ Mansion because of the Wenhua Seal, Dongfang Lianhua always felt guilty towards him. When the Matriach brought her second son and his family to seek refuge with Feng Zhanlian, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s health began to deteriorate, and gradually she ceded her authority over the household. Over the past few years, the faces inside and outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion had changed. Since her return, Feng Bailing felt restricted everywhere; one could imagine how hard life had become for those in the west wing. The Princess¡¯ Mansion¡¯s storeroom was toasty with a warming stove, and a middle-aged man with droopy eyes was warming his hands by the fire. ¡°This damn storeroom is cold in winter and warm in summer. Once the Matriach is back, I¡¯ll ask Uncle Wang for his old job; within a couple of years, I could marry a few pretty little maids to warm my bed.¡± As Ding San drooled over his daydreams, he saw Feng Bailing walk in with people. ¡°Miss, what kind of wind blew you this way?¡± Ding San¡¯s smile was a grimace. Uncle Wang¡¯s death hadn¡¯t yet been widely disclosed, and the household servants all thought Uncle Wang had died from a drunken fall. Feng Bailing circled inside the storeroom, her gaze finally resting on a brocade box on the shelf. ¡°My mother is frail; she needs some ginseng to replenish her strength.¡± ¡°Miss, ginseng is a precious medicinal herb, and we don¡¯t have much in the mansion. The south wing just took one last night, and recently the mansion¡¯s shops have been losing money; we don¡¯t even have the funds to purchase new ginseng.¡± Ding San lazily said. The one in the west wing is already hanging on to half a life, and our young lady has just had her engagement annulled. The whole family is losing money and still wants to consume ginseng, pah. Slap¡ª Feng Bailing raised her hand and delivered a slap to the other¡¯s face, followed by a backhand slap. The sound was crisp and loud; Ding San was struck to the ground. ¡°Young miss, I am your...¡± ¡°I am a Commandery Princess personally appointed by the Emperor. Are you, a quartermaster, trying to claim kinship and reminisce with me?¡± Feng Bailing picked up the brocade box and slammed it on Ding San¡¯s forehead, causing his head to bleed profusely with fresh blood gushing out. ¡°Open your damn eyes and see what is inside this?¡± Ding San¡¯s face turned pale; inside the brocade box was a century-old ginseng. But how could the young miss know that there was ginseng in the storehouse when he had clearly hidden it well? ¡°Young miss... Commandery Princess, that¡¯s for the Matriach to replenish her health.¡± ¡°Is the Matriach the Empress Dowager or Her Majesty the Empress? My mother is a First-Rank Princess, personally appointed by the late Emperor. The Princess¡¯ Mansion you reside in, the monthly salary you receive, which of them isn¡¯t from my mother¡¯s dowry? You secretly hoarding ginseng is disrespectful to the Matriach; that¡¯s a capital offense. Even if I killed you, it would not be too much. Someone, tie him up and throw him outside.¡± Feng Bailing handed the ginseng to Nanny Gui and asked her to prepare the medicine. She had a seventh sense, sharper than the average person; she could tell just by sniffing how many types of medicine were in the storehouse. Ding San tried to pressure her with the Matriach; he was asking for death. Ding San¡¯s cries alarmed Feng Zhanlian. ¡°Ding San is an old servant of the mansion...¡± Before Feng Zhanlian could finish, Feng Bailing gave him a look. Feng Zhanlian suddenly remembered that Feng Bailing is now Princess Shengping, supported by Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince. Feng Zhanlian¡¯s demeanor instantly diminished. ¡°Bailing, you¡¯ve misunderstood Ding San. He wasn¡¯t embezzling the medicinal ingredients. It¡¯s just that the Princess¡¯ Mansion hasn¡¯t been faring well these years, and your grandmother is elderly and infirm, requiring ginseng every day. If not for your Uncle managing things efficiently, the Princess¡¯ Mansion would have collapsed long ago.¡± ¡°This is something I was planning to discuss with father. In earlier years when my mother was unwell, and my brother and I were not around, we let Aunt Xue manage the household affairs, and also entrusted the outside shops to Uncle. Now that my mother¡¯s health has improved, she said that when I get married and need money for my dowry, it would be a good opportunity for me to sort out the mansion¡¯s accounts.¡± Feng Bailing spoke nonchalantly, but her words turned Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face green with embarrassment. Did she and her mother intend to audit the books? Later, Feng Xiangxue heard the news and sent for Feng Zhanlian. ¡°Father, how could you let sister do whatever she wants? These past few days, she has been causing chaos outside and now she won¡¯t even spare her own people. Uncle Ding is still tied up outside, nearly frozen to death. I fear if sister continues this recklessness, there will be no place for my brother and me. Look at my leg...¡± Feng Xiangxue said while wiping away tears. ¡°She has just been appointed Commandery Princess and is feeling proud of herself. But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve received news that your mother and the Matriach will return this afternoon. Your mother always has a way to handle her; just a few comforting words and not only will she hand over her dowry, but all the wedding gifts from Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion will belong to us.¡± Feng Zhanlian was initially very afraid of Dugu Wu, but suddenly he thought, Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion is wealthy and prosperous; Feng Bailing, having lost her virtue, might as well be married off in exchange for a big dowry. ¡°Father, but how come I¡¯ve heard that the Princess Consort of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion is rather mean? The previous princess consorts married there haven¡¯t ended well, I heard that even the wedding gifts were embarrassingly trivial. Besides, if the word of sister¡¯s disgrace gets out, this marriage is likely to fall through.¡± Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face showed concern, but inwardly she sneered. The Crown Princess Consort was right, to deal with Feng Bailing one had to use the right method. She had already secretly spread the news about Feng Bailing having a child, and when the rumors spread all over the city, she really wanted to see how Feng Bailing would marry into Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion! Chapter 30 - 30 30 Feng Xiaoli Looking for Daddy ?Chapter 30: Chapter 30 Feng Xiaoli Looking for Daddy Chapter 30: Chapter 30 Feng Xiaoli Looking for Daddy In the afternoon, Feng Bailing set out to visit Feng Xiaoli. Her daughter was flesh that had fallen from her own body, and after a few days apart, she missed her terribly. If Xiaoli knew that she was about to have a father and an elder brother, she would surely be overjoyed. As she left the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she heard Ding San wailing at the entrance, and there was quite a crowd gathered around the Princess¡¯ Mansion, pointing and commenting. ¡°That eldest young lady from the Princess¡¯ Mansion is really heartless, mistreating the servants.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve heard it long ago that this eldest lady is ugly and without virtue, while the second lady is beautiful and kind-hearted.¡± ¡°It¡¯s said that this eldest lady has lost her chastity and given birth to an illegitimate daughter, an absolute disgrace among women.¡± Ordinary people would have been enraged by such rumors, but Feng Bailing, having spent years as a beggar, had developed a heart as tough as stone. She knew something was off with the rumors, and glanced at the crowd, memorizing a few who were the most vocal. As soon as they saw Feng Bailing, they quickly slipped away. ¡°Shut Ding San¡¯s mouth. Whoever untied him, tie them up as well.¡± Feng Bailing glanced at the several house servants at the entrance; they were daunted by her glare and quickly gagged Ding San with a rag. Feng Bailing paid no attention to the gazes of the passersby and headed towards the east of the city. Chun Liu¡¯s distant relative lived in the civilian alleys of the eastern city. Upon reaching the east of the city and locating Chun Liu¡¯s relatives, Feng Bailing did not find Chun Liu. When asked, Feng Bailing found out that Feng Xiaoli had developed a fever the night before, and Chun Liu, anxious, didn¡¯t wait for the doctor to visit and took Feng Xiaoli to find one herself. Why had Xiaoli gotten a fever again? Feng Bailing remembered that since Xiaoli had been born preterm due to her own hemorrhage during childbirth, Xiaoli had always been frail. She had been relatively easy to care for before the age of one, but after she began talking, she fell ill every few months. This illness was likely due to the ailment left behind from falling into the well last time. Feng Bailing blamed herself, and after inquiring about the clinic¡¯s location, hurriedly made her way there. On the streets of Chu City, bustling with people, Chun Liu, holding Feng Xiaoli, inquired along the way and finally found a pharmacy in the city, Xinglin Spring. Xinglin Spring was actually the property of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, one of the dowries that Princess Yong¡¯an brought with her marriage, and inside was a clinic with a doctor, namely Doctor Yang, who had served in the Imperial Hospital in his early years, diagnosing all major and minor ailments for the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Xiaoli had started to run a fever last night and was talking nonsense. Worried that something might happen, Chun Liu wanted to seek Doctor Yang¡¯s help. ¡°I¡¯m looking for Doctor Yang; my Miss has fallen ill.¡± Chun Liu¡¯s round face was hard to distinguish between tears and sweat as she kept looking down at Feng Xiaoli in her arms. The small Miss was entirely red, and her body was burning hot. All along the way, the little Miss kept calling for her mother. ¡°Make way, make way; a nurse from the Crown Prince Mansion got food poisoning at the neighboring teahouse; please have Doctor Yang go take a look.¡± A house servant with an arrogant face rushed into the clinic, pushing Chun Liu aside. Hearing that it was the nurse from the Crown Prince Mansion¡¯s matter, Doctor Yang disregarded the long queue waiting for him and picked up his medicine box to leave. ¡°Doctor Yang, I am Chun Liu from the Princess¡¯ Mansion; our small Miss has a fever. Could you please have a look?¡± Chun Liu squeezed to the front, pleading. ¡°Can the Princess¡¯ Mansion be compared with the Crown Prince Mansion? Move aside, so you don¡¯t delay the important person¡¯s illness.¡± Doctor Yang felt this was a good opportunity to ingratiate himself with the Crown Prince Mansion; being pushed out of the Imperial Hospital, he was worrying about how to return. If he could earn the appreciation of the Crown Prince Mansion, his fortunes would soar. Chun Liu was pushed aside; holding Xiaoli, she stumbled and fell to the ground. ¡°Please, Doctor Yang, save our young Miss.¡± Chun Liu, holding Feng Xiaoli, knelt on the ground, tears streaming down her face. A pair of soft little hands struggled to lift, wiping away Chun Liu¡¯s tears. ¡°Don¡¯t cry, Daddy will come to rescue Xiao Li.¡± Feng Xiaoli felt a heat overwhelm her body, and in her hazy state, she seemed to see a figure approaching her. A sour feeling rose from the depths of Chun Liu¡¯s heart. She staggered to her feet to chase after Doctor Yang, but as soon as she reached the street corner, commotion erupted from behind. The crowd on the main street panicked and scattered. A horse carriage came flying in from the intersection. The horses pulling the cart were robust and fierce, charging forward violently. Chun Liu, terrified and breaking out in a cold sweat, realized it was too late to get away. Clutching Feng Xiaoli tight to her chest, her heart was filled with despair. Suddenly, a figure darted out beside the horse carriage. The person, quick-witted and swift, scooped Chun Liu into his arms and gave the horse reins a tug, calming the furious military horses to a stop. Chun Liu¡¯s face flushed with heat as she saw a young man with thick eyebrows and big eyes. He first saw Chun Liu and was about to say, ¡°Little girl, your eyes are so big, how come you don¡¯t watch where you¡¯re going?¡± But before he could speak, the young man was taken aback, pointing at Feng Xiaoli in Chun Liu¡¯s embrace. ¡°Miss!¡± Feng Wan recognized Feng Xiaoli and hurriedly hid his new scabbard behind his back. Dugu Wu pulled back the carriage curtain. He was actually on his way back to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, and on a normal day, he would not have taken this route. On the way back, he thought about Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s upcoming birthday and decided to take a detour, never expecting to encounter this little creature. Chun Liu had already fainted from fright, falling squarely into Feng Wan¡¯s arms. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t pass out! You¡¯re so heavy!¡± Before Feng Wan could finish, Dugu Wu instructed him to carry Feng Xiaoli onto the carriage. ¡°She¡¯s so hot?¡± Dugu Wu frowned, touching Xiao Li¡¯s forehead. Seeing the little one in agony, with a face as pathetic as a bitter melon, his chest felt unbearably tight. ¡°There¡¯s a clinic up ahead, why not ask there?¡± Carrying Chun Liu on his back, Feng Wan saw Xinglin Spring in a glance. ¡°The wet nurse from the Crown Prince Mansion got sick at the teahouse from bad food, and Doctor Yang went to treat her. This little maid went to seek treatment and was kicked out.¡± A passerby, who couldn¡¯t stand it anymore, spoke up with courage. Xinglin Spring was also an established medical clinic that sold medicine. It was said to be owned by the royal family and Doctor Yang, who practiced there, was notorious for exploiting his power, and many common folk had suffered under him. But they were like mute persons tasting misery ¨C unable to speak out. Dugu Wu listened and his eyebrows knitted tighter. ¡°Feng Wan, go tie up that person and bring him here.¡± A wet nurse got a bad stomach, and other people were not allowed to see a doctor now? The Crown Prince Mansion was so arrogant that even a wet nurse could bully others. Feng Wan affirmed with a sound, placed Chun Liu inside the carriage, and entered the teahouse. The teahouse erupted with a clatter and cries for help. Feng Wan emerged with Doctor Yang in one hand and a pudgy middle-aged woman in the other, dragging them from the teahouse. With a casual throw, the two rolled out beside the carriage. The woman was dressed in a red robe and green pants, adorned with several golden bracelets, her face full of arrogant indignation. ¡°Who¡¯s this dog-slave to dare seize me? I am the wet nurse of the Imperial Eldest Grandson and Imperial Eldest Granddaughter, a favorite in the eyes of the Crown Princess Consort, the future Empress!¡± Chapter 31 - 31 31 The Future Mother-in-Law Who Comes to ?Chapter 31: Chapter 31 The Future Mother-in-Law Who Comes to Smash the Place Chapter 31: Chapter 31 The Future Mother-in-Law Who Comes to Smash the Place Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes flashed with a cold light. Passersby only felt a blur before their eyes, and before they could see clearly, a hissing sound was heard, and blood splattered on the ground. Chun Liu had just woken up, only to see a head rolling onto the ground. She cried out in shock, and then blackness overcame her vision; she fainted once more. ¡°Send it to the Crown Prince Mansion and say that this impertinent servant has spoken out of turn about state affairs; I, the prince, have dealt with it.¡± Dugu Wu glanced at Doctor Yang collapsed on the ground. ¡°Mercy, my lord, have mercy...¡± Doctor Yang was petrified with fear. ¡°A presumptuous cur, what use are eyes to you?¡± Dugu Wu let down the carriage curtains, shutting out Doctor Yang¡¯s pitiful screams. ¡°My lord, it has been efficiently dealt with.¡± Feng Wan, holding Chun Liu, was seated in front of the carriage, while Doctor Yang, whose eyes had been gouged out, was carried away by the terrified people from the clinic. ¡°What about the little Miss?¡± Feng Wan sneaked a glance at his master; his master¡¯s brows were furrowed, his gaze lowered, scrutinizing Feng Xiaoli. Holding her, whether to let go or not to let go, the situation seemed much more difficult than when he was on the battlefield slaying enemies. ¡°Go to the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± Dugu Wu held Feng Xiaoli, this little creature soft and tiny, as if a careless touch might harm her. Little girls need to be pampered. Dugu Wu¡¯s movements became gentler still, and even his voice became softer. He had no experience in caring for children and could only hold her in his embrace. He remembered that when he was injured, the medicine Feng Bailing gave was very effective. This woman, what kind of mother is she! The crowd quickly dispersed. When Feng Bailing arrived at Xinglin Spring, she found the doors tightly shut. Xinglin Spring? Feng Bailing felt the name was somewhat familiar. Upon a moment¡¯s recollection, this Xinglin Spring was a property of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Back when Princess Yong¡¯an married Feng Zhanlian, the late Emperor included this well-established Xinglin Spring in her dowry. To take care of everyone from the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Doctor Yang, from the Imperial Hospital, was specially appointed as the doctor. The clinic was well-situated and an established business, the business was originally very good, but ever since Feng Zhan Tian, Feng Zhanlian¡¯s younger brother, took over management, it had declined, requiring the mansion to supplement it yearly. As for Doctor Yang, it was said he lined his own pockets, taking quite a lot of advantages. Feng Bailing had long suspected that Doctor Yang was involved in Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s illness, but she had not yet gathered enough evidence. She knocked on the door, but there was no response for a long while. Upon asking the neighboring shop, the shop assistant, pale as a ghost, relayed the incident¡¯s details haltingly. The blood on the street corner had not yet dried, and the assistant dare not disclose the identity of the individual involved, but Feng Bailing guessed it immediately. In all of Chu City, only he would dare to behead the Crown Prince Mansion¡¯s nanny. Yet by doing so, wouldn¡¯t he be unconcerned about humiliating Nalan Yan¡¯er? She didn¡¯t have time to consider further and hurried towards the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, a horse carriage with golden tassels fluttering from its canopy had just stopped, and down stepped a fair and beautiful woman. She exuded an air of nobility, and she was the Princess Consort Shun coming to deliver the engagement gifts to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. The marriage between the Princess¡¯ Mansion and Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion was a union of members of the Royal Family. According to matrimonial customs, not one of the six rites could be omitted. Princess Consort Shun only brought along a casually assembled gift list, accompanied by her personal nanny and maidservants, clearly not holding the Princess¡¯ Mansion in high regard. Princess Consort Shun glanced at the mansion¡¯s plaque and frowned, covering her nose with a handkerchief. The Princess¡¯ Mansion is truly puny compared to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, noticeably shabby. But it¡¯s no surprise, for the Princess¡¯ Mansion is short on people and funds, nowhere near the military exploits and rewards earned single-handedly by Dugu Wu, sufficient for three generations of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion to live in luxury. Like all women of the Royal Family, Princess Consort Shun had a poor impression of Feng Bailing. She missed this year¡¯s Spring Banquet due to a headache, but she clearly remembered Feng Bailing, the legitimate eldest daughter of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, who had once infuriated the Empress Dowager to illness at the banquet. Her mother is Princess Yong¡¯an, and her father is a Prince Consort with no real power. It¡¯s been said that Princess Yong¡¯an has been ill with tuberculosis for a long time now¡ªwhat kind of family is this? These past years, because of Dugu Wu¡¯s illegitimate child, she¡¯s lost all face, and now she even has to ask to marry a disgraced, husband-less, and worthless widow. Princess Consort Shun felt aggrieved. She went to the palace to seek advice from her good friend, Princess Consort Guo, who indeed had a good idea for her. This marriage, it can¡¯t happen. At the entrance, a wailing sound suddenly arose, and Princess Consort Shun focused her eyes to see an alarmingly bruised and swollen household slave tied up outside. ¡°What kind of hospitality is this?¡± Princess Consort Shun¡¯s expression grew even worse. They say that apart from the second Miss and the third Young Master, there¡¯s no decent person in the Princess¡¯ Mansion¡ªit sure lives up to its reputation. ¡°Reporting to Princess Consort, this is an old servant of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, who was tied up here for offending Princess Shengping,¡± said the nanny, returning with the information. ¡°Feng Bailing is far too barbaric, to treat the elderly servants of the house like this. Someone, release this man.¡± Princess Consort Shun thought that although she cannot become Feng Bailing¡¯s mother-in-law, as her elder, she should reprimand this future daughter-in-law who hasn¡¯t yet married into the family. She should show empathy for the servants and treat people with tolerance¡ªthis is the demeanor an Honored Wife of the Royal Family should have. ¡°Many thanks to Princess Consort,¡± said Ding San as he was released, repeatedly kowtowing and expressing his gratitude upon learning the lady¡¯s identity. ¡°It is said that you offended your Princess Shengping. Tell me, what kind of person is she?¡± Princess Consort Shun asked loudly, audible to passersby. Ding San¡¯s gaze flickered. ¡°Speak if you have something to say, Princess Consort will see justice done for you,¡± hurriedly interjected the nanny beside Princess Consort Shun. ¡°Reporting to Princess Consort, Princess Shengping... she¡¯s not human. Her character is corrupt, engaging in licentious behavior and even secretly gave birth to a daughter. And now, she allows some rogue man to secretly raise the daughter in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Poor Ninth Prince is still kept in the dark.¡± Ding San¡¯s eyes shifted slyly. Just before, Feng Bailing¡¯s maidservant Chun Liu was seen carrying a little girl into the mansion, claiming to look for the eldest Miss, accompanied by a handsome young man, both appearing very anxious¡ªthe little girl was even calling him ¡®daddy.¡¯ Without a doubt, that man must be Feng Bailing¡¯s adulterous lover! That little girl, Ding San had heard early on, was a bastard born to Feng Bailing at the Other Manor. Upon hearing this, Princess Consort Shun felt a lump in her throat, unable to swallow or spit it out. ¡°Is this true?¡± Princess Consort Shun was not to be trifled with, furious beyond measure. What a Feng Bailing! Being jilted in marriage was one thing, but now she¡¯s also lost her virtue and chastity! Dugu Wu against her wishes had brought back Dugu Xiaojin with an unclear background, but now Feng Bailing dares to bring another illegitimate child to split the inheritance of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion? Ding San wore a face full of eagerness. ¡°What I have said is nothing but the truth, Princess Consort. If you do not believe me, I shall lead you to the west wing to catch the culprits right now.¡± Chapter 32 - 32 32 Who Dares to Touch Their Daughter (Part ?Chapter 32: Chapter 32 Who Dares to Touch Their Daughter (Part 1) Chapter 32: Chapter 32 Who Dares to Touch Their Daughter (Part 1) Inside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Princess Consort Shun followed Ding San to the west wing. A side room in the west wing echoed with conversation voices, indeed including a man¡¯s voice. Inside the room, Feng Wan and Chun Liu were worried. They came to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, not knowing that Feng Bailing hadn¡¯t returned yet. They couldn¡¯t disturb Princess Yong¡¯an, whose health was not good, so they could only wait for Feng Bailing in the side room. ¡°Come out you adulterer, open the door.¡± Princess Consort Shun ordered the door to be smashed open, and as the door burst open, Feng Wan protected Chun Liu and Feng Xiaoli, and was stunned by the arrival. ¡°It¡¯s her.¡± Ding San, with a sycophantic expression, pointed at Feng Xiaoli in Chun Liu¡¯s arms. ¡°So there really is an illegitimate child, the Princess¡¯ Mansion has the audacity to deceive even Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion.¡± Princess Consort Shun hadn¡¯t yet had a clear look at the young man and woman, but her anger flared up rapidly. She rushed up to Chun Liu, attempting to snatch Feng Xiaoli, with several maids and nannies helping to seize Chun Liu. Chun Liu held onto Feng Xiaoli tightly, refusing to let go. ¡°Old lady.¡± Feng Wan was about to act when he saw Princess Consort Shun, he was shocked and could only steel himself to stop the nannies and maids. The Prince and this Princess Consort Shun have always been at odds, but nominally she is the Prince¡¯s mother, and he is under the Prince¡¯s command, he couldn¡¯t possibly be rough towards Princess Consort Shun. ¡°Who are you calling old? You shameless adulterer!¡± Princess Consort Shun, disregarding her usual demeanor, pointed at Feng Wan and cursed. ¡°Princess Consort, this seems to be Guard Feng, the Prince¡¯s personal guard.¡± Nanny Li recognized Feng Wan and subtly reminded Princess Consort Shun. ¡°Guard Feng? How preposterous, this youngster dares to entangle with a future Matriach, his crime is even greater.¡± Upon hearing this, Princess Consort Shun became even more enraged. Never would she have imagined that the ordinarily decent-looking Feng Wan was driven by lust, such a massive cuckold placed on the head of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, enough to crush the mansion. She stepped forward and slapped Feng Wan. Feng Wan was bewildered. ¡°Why are you hitting people rashly?¡± Chun Liu saw Feng Wan standing in front of her and Xiao Li, blocking Princess Consort Shun, yet unwilling to retaliate, she was both angry and anxious, her eyes reddening. She was restrained by several maids, and Feng Xiaoli was snatched away. Tch, it¡¯s tough, I can¡¯t handle this alone, better go find the Prince. Feng Wan saw that the situation was unfavorable and hurriedly went to find help. ¡°Princess Consort, this illegitimate child cannot be kept, you¡¯d better kill her quickly to prevent disgrace to the Prince Mansion.¡± Ding San fanned the flames from the side, a malicious glint in his eyes. Feng Bailing dared to embarrass him, he wanted her to regret deeply. To kill? Buddha bless, this isn¡¯t some chick or puppy, it¡¯s a child. Princess Consort Shun glanced at Feng Xiaoli, and upon seeing her, she was stunned. The little girl looked about three or four years old, her face red from a high fever, curled up, appearing frail and vulnerable, her chubby face soft and doughy, like a beautifully carved little girl. ¡°Who knew Feng Bailing, with that ugly appearance, could have such a cute child.¡± Princess Consort Shun thought to herself, unable to resist the temptation, she stealthily pinched Feng Xiaoli¡¯s chubby cheeks. Feng Xiaoli opened her eyes, beneath eyelashes like little fans, a pair of large eyes like black grapes fluttered. ¡°Her Majesty~¡± Feng Xiaoli, sick and dizzy, saw a blurry figure and called out like a kitten. With her little chubby hands, like lotus roots, she hugged Princess Consort Shun¡¯s neck and rubbed her face against it, her voice cooing cutely. Princess Consort Shun¡¯s face instantly flushed bright red. Holding Feng Xiaoli, Princess Consort Shun was caught in a dilemma, unable to decide whether to hold on or let go. On the corridor, Feng Zhanlian rushed over with several house servants in a flurry. ¡°What a mess! Princess Consort Shun has arrived and you didn¡¯t even report it!¡± Unexpectedly, actions from the Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion were so swift. Having bestowed the marriage yesterday, they have come today to offer the engagement gifts. The house servants didn¡¯t dare to utter a word. They were usually favored by those from the south wing, and it was the second young miss who had instructed them to let them in. They waited for the right moment to inform the master. Upon reaching the west wing, they saw Chun Liu kneeling on the ground, pleading bitterly. ¡°Lady, please have mercy, the child is still feverish.¡± Princess Consort Shun¡¯s face looked bizarre, surrounded by several maids and nannies. Princess Consort Shun was still holding a little girl in her arms. No need to say, it must be that illegitimate child. Feng Zhanlian stepped forward and kicked Chun Liu aside, cursing constantly. ¡°Good grief Chun Liu, to think you would indulge in such obscene acts, engaging in secret affairs with a wild man. Men! Beat Chun Liu and that little bastard to death with random sticks!¡± Feng Zhanlian, thinking quickly in his urgency, just needed to assert that the illegitimate child was born of Chun Liu¡¯s affair, and unrelated to Feng Bailing, then this marriage could still be saved. ¡°Master...¡± Chun Liu opened her mouth. ¡°Feng Bailing has treated you well, and you still want to implicate her?¡± Feng Zhanlian glared fiercely at Chun Liu. Chun Liu¡¯s face turned ashen. Her lady was bestowed in marriage to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, and if the little miss¡¯s situation was exposed, it would be a grave crime of deceiving the emperor. ¡°Mother-in-law, it truly is an unfortunate family scandal. Please hand over that little bastard to me, I¡¯ll have her taken care of, to avoid sullying your eyes.¡± Feng Zhanlian quickly changed his manner, reaching out to snatch Feng Xiaoli. Princess Consort Shun hesitated. Really to beat to death? ¡°Feng Zhanlian, what nonsense are you spouting! Do you know who that child is?¡± From the west wing, Dongfang Lianhua walked out supported by Nanny Gui. Having just recovered from a serious illness, she was shocked to see this scene, where Feng Zhanlian was about to beat her own granddaughter to death and execute Chun Liu, a chill ran through her heart. ¡°Lianhua, you¡¯ve been ill too long and are unaware of the disgrace within the mansion. That child is Chun Liu¡¯s illicit child with another man. For the reputation of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, both the child and Chun Liu must be dealt with.¡± As soon as Feng Zhanlian spoke, several house servants reached out to grab them, but Chun Liu, driven mad, charged over and clung to Feng Zhanlian¡¯s legs. ¡°Master, Chun Liu was wrong. I am willing to die for it. I only ask you, spare the child¡¯s life.¡± Feng Zhanlian was both annoyed and angry, and it took several house servants, hands and feet all over, to pull Chun Liu away. ¡°Princess Consort Shun, this is a family matter of our Princess¡¯ Mansion. Please hand over the child.¡± Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s heart ached as she looked at the child in Princess Consort Shun¡¯s arms and recognized that the child looked very much like Ah Ling when she was younger. That is her granddaughter, whom she had never met before. Even if it meant giving up the marriage and facing the crime of deceiving the emperor, as a grandmother, she had to save her. ¡°Princess Consort, I apologize!¡± A fierce light flashed in Feng Zhanlian¡¯s eyes. With swift hands, he snatched the child from Princess Consort Shun, lifting her over his head, intending to throw Feng Xiaoli down and kill her. ¡°Feng Zhanlian! How dare you!¡± Dongfang Lianhua trembled with anger, her body weakening, barely keeping herself from collapsing. ¡°I do this for the good of the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± Feng Zhanlian coldly snorted. Chapter 33 - 33 33 Who Dares to Touch Their Daughter (Part ?Chapter 33: Chapter 33 Who Dares to Touch Their Daughter (Part 2) Chapter 33: Chapter 33 Who Dares to Touch Their Daughter (Part 2) Just at that moment, with a swish, a gust of wind came from a hidden spot and Feng Zhanlian¡¯s hand slipped, dropping the little Feng Xiaoli to the ground. Just as Feng Bailing, who had hurried back, felt her heart leap into her throat, she didn¡¯t think twice and flicked a stone, hitting Feng Zhanlian¡¯s knee squarely. Feng Zhanlian felt numbness in his knee, weakness below it, and knelt to the ground. However, right after, his palm ached tremendously, and another pebble pierced through the center of his palm. ¡°Father!¡± Feng Xiangxue, assisted by her servant to ¡°watch the excitement,¡± witnessed this very scene. ¡°Xiao Li.¡± Feng Bailing caught her daughter, and from the corner of her eye, she saw Dugu Wu being pushed in by Feng Wan. Covered by a thin felt blanket over his legs, his handsome face enveloped in frost and exuding a killing aura which did not lessen even slightly, his arrival immediately dropped the temperature in the room a few degrees. ¡°Dugu Wu, how dare you harm my father!¡± Feng Xiangxue turned pale with fright, as Feng Zhanlian clutched his bleeding palm, his face contorted with pain. On one hand, Feng Xiangxue was scared of Dugu Wu, but then thinking that the man had been stripped of his position, and with backing from the Crown Princess Consort and Dongfang Li, she felt a bit braver. ¡°He was impolite to my daughter, crippling one of his hands is already being polite.¡± If it weren¡¯t for worrying about hurting the little one, Feng Zhanlian¡¯s injuries would not have been limited to his hand. His daughter? Everyone present was struck by Dugu Wu¡¯s words. Feng Bailing felt a warmth in her heart, never expecting Dugu Wu would acknowledge Xiao Li as his daughter before so many people. The Princess Consort Shun also had a complicated expression. That adorable little girl is Dugu Wu¡¯s daughter? Looking at Dugu Wu, a single glance could freeze someone to the bone. Then looking at the little baby, a single glance seemed to melt one¡¯s bones. Who are they trying to fool? Not in the least bit alike! The nanny beside her reacted quickly, subtly nudging the Princess Consort Shun. Princess Consort Shun came back to her senses, realizing the situation seemed to have been sparked by her? She cleared her throat lightly, regaining the composure of a matriach in charge. ¡°Prince Wu, you say this child is your flesh and blood? How is this possible? I remember clearly that you...¡± ¡°Princess Consort, I know about my daughter better than you do.¡± Dugu Wu couldn¡¯t even be bothered to spare Princess Consort Shun another look. As Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes showed a flash of impatience, Princess Consort Shun wisely shut her mouth. Undutiful son! Rebellious child! Princess Consort Shun cursed a few times internally, then thought, if she couldn¡¯t deal with Dugu Wu, she could target Feng Bailing! Best pick on the softer targets. Princess Consort Shun cleared her throat again. ¡°Princess Shengping, I just heard some rumors...¡± ¡°Ding San is spreading rumors and causing trouble, drag him out and execute him by caning.¡± Feng Bailing touched her daughter¡¯s forehead; the high fever wouldn¡¯t subside, it did not seem like a cold, nor a viral influenza. Without lifting her head, she simply stated. The second half of Princess Consort Shun¡¯s words got stuck in her throat. Beside Dugu Wu, Feng Wan stepped forward, consciously grabbed Ding San like an eagle capturing a chick, and took him away. Outside the courtyard, screams resounded, and then, there was silence. Feng Wan went and returned, this time coming back with a string of people. ¡°Prince, Commandery Princess, just now I caught several rabble-rousing hooligans slandering outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion and have brought them here to await the Prince and Commandery Princess for judgment.¡± Feng Wan brought those who were smearing Feng Bailing and her daughter¡¯s reputation in the city, directly in front of Princess Consort Shun and the Feng Mansion. Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but be impressed by Dugu Wu¡¯s methods. When she heard the rumors on the street, she knew someone was spreading lies, not expecting that Dugu Wu had already captured them. Feng Xiangxue trembled slightly; she was frightened. These people were whom she had found to defame Feng Bailing, but before the rumors could spread, they had been caught. Dugu Wu was terrifying. ¡°Who told you to slander me?¡± As Feng Bailing¡¯s gaze swept over them, their complexions drastically changed, they staggered, blood flowing from seven orifices, and they all fell dead on the ground. ¡°They took poison and died. I failed to notice, please forgive my negligence, Prince and Commandery Princess.¡± Only then did Feng Wan realize these people had been poisoned. The other party knew Dugu Wu was watching and acted first. ¡°Feng Wan, it¡¯s not your fault; I should be the one thanking you,¡± Feng Bailing said gratefully. Feng Bailing then bowed to Princess Consort Shun, but her expression carried a faint coldness, which made Princess Consort Shun both embarrassed and angry. Dugu Wu¡¯s words might deceive others, but they couldn¡¯t fool Princess Consort Shun. What kind of man was Dugu Wu, with such high standards that the only woman he has cherished in these years was Nalan Yan¡¯er, something everyone in Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion knew. How could he possibly fancy Feng Bailing, much less have a child with her! This child of Feng Bailing¡¯s must not be Dugu Wu¡¯s. Because any woman who has been with Dugu Wu is sure to die. ¡°Today¡¯s incident was all a misunderstanding. The Princess¡¯ Mansion has poor discipline, resulting in the unruly servant Ding San. It is my failure as a Matriach. I plan to temporarily hand over the affairs of the Mansion to Ah Ling to help me straighten things out.¡± Dongfang Lianhua breathed a sigh of relief, and struck up a conversation with Princess Consort Shun. She was also seeing the famous Ninth Prince for the first time. Although he had difficulty walking and his methods were rather ruthless, he was quite different from the rumors. He was willing to acknowledge Xiao Li as his daughter, and his attitude towards Ah Ling was quite acceptable. In Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s eyes, the mother-in-law, the taciturn Dugu Wu, was much more appropriate than the smooth-talking Dongfang Li. ¡°Lianhua, you must be confused. The affairs of the mansion have long been entrusted to Aunt Xue. How can you hand them to Feng Bailing? She is still just a child.¡± Feng Zhanlian, hearing this, hastily spoke, ignoring the pain in his palm. With Uncle Wang and Ding San successively punished by Feng Bailing, Feng Zhanlian felt a sense of impending doom. ¡°Ah Ling is about to get married, and I, as her mother, naturally have to teach her how to be a Matriach properly. Or does the master think that we are inferior to Aunt Xue?¡± Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s words were rather cold. Since marrying Feng Zhanlian, she had confronted him for the first time. Feng Zhanlian was left speechless, and Feng Xiangxue beside him was also anxious. ¡°The Princess is right. Let¡¯s follow your suggestion; from now on, Ah Ling will trouble herself with the affairs of the Mansion.¡± A gentle voice tinged with flattery came through, and from the gallery, a beautiful-looking woman arrived. Her skin was delicate and luminous; even in her thirties, she still had a captivating grace that was unforgettable at a glance. Chapter 34 - 34 34 Who is the childs father ?Chapter 34: Chapter 34 Who is the child¡¯s father? Chapter 34: Chapter 34 Who is the child¡¯s father? Aunt Xue is merely the daughter of a scholar, but years of living luxuriously have made her no different from the noble ladies in Chu City. She has maintained her appearance and figure well and knows how to manage the Princess¡¯ Mansion. No wonder Feng Zhanlian has always cherished her so dearly. Seeing Feng Bailing, Aunt Xue approached her, her eyes reddening and her face filled with joy. ¡°Ah Ling, you¡¯re back. It¡¯s all the nanny¡¯s fault, these years have made you and your mother suffer so much. Don¡¯t worry, with nanny here, no one will be able to bully the two of you again.¡± As she spoke, Aunt Xue slapped herself in the face twice, leaving red marks on her fair skin, which were hard for anyone to bear seeing. Dugu Wu watched coldly from the sidelines. This Aunt Xue is quite a character; the waters of the Princess¡¯ Mansion run much deeper than he had anticipated. Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes flickered slightly. Throughout her childhood, every time she or her brother made a mistake, Aunt Xue would protect them. Conversely, when Sister Xiangxue and her brother made mistakes, Aunt Xue would harshly punish them, insisting they admit and correct their faults. Back then, she naively thought that it was because Aunt Xue loved her. Now, it seems this fragile woman is like a wolf spider, spinning webs around her and her brother, turning them into prey she reared, until they were ultimately consumed without even realizing it. In that lifetime, Feng Zhanlian favored concubines over his wife, with Aunt Xue and her daughter receiving a marriage and an imperial decree respectively. Their glory was gained at the expense of their own family¡¯s blood and flesh. ¡°Aunt Xue, don¡¯t worry, I have grown up. I will take good care of myself and our family from now on.¡± Feng Bailing smiled, a hint of aloofness in her lifted eyes, presenting an untouchable demeanor. This stunned Aunt Xue for a moment. Among the young women she knew, only Nalan Yan¡¯er possessed such an aura. Feng Bailing... had changed. Aunt Xue felt a sinking feeling in her heart. Feng Bailing had already gone back to the west wing with Feng Xiaoli, followed by Feng Wan pushing Dugu Wu. Dongfang Lianhua led Princess Consort Shun to the Flower Hall to discuss marriage matters. Aunt Xue ordered someone to dress Feng Zhanlian¡¯s wounds. ¡°Mother, why did you only just come back? I was almost killed by that bitch Feng Bailing.¡± Feng Xiangxue trembled with rage. Aunt Xue instantly slapped Feng Xiangxue. Her expression remained gentle, but her eyes were chillingly cold. ¡°How did I teach you? You must be patient and appear weak in front of others. In my absence, your actions nearly destroyed everything we¡¯ve worked for over the years.¡± Aunt Xue had accompanied the old lady and the second branch of the family out of town for a blessing ceremony. On her way back, she received the news and hurried back alone. Just a few days away from the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and everything had changed. The situation, with Feng Bailing still in the Princess¡¯ Mansion and Dongfang Lianhua alive, even made the usually composed Aunt Xue somewhat panicked. Feng Xiangxue, covering her face, began to cry. ¡°Mother, my leg is broken, and the Seventh Prince doesn¡¯t even visit me. It¡¯s all Feng Bailing¡¯s fault. She humiliated me in front of others for not being from the Royal Family, so I couldn¡¯t help but find someone to slander her.¡± ¡°It¡¯s lucky the Crown Princess Consort is clever, eliminating those who know. Are you stupid? How much longer can Feng Bailing be proud? So what if she married Dugu Wu? He has been overstepping his authority for years, and the Emperor has long wanted to get rid of him. If he really is crippled, he will die sooner or later, and Feng Bailing and her daughter will be buried with him...¡± Aunt Xue spoke and took out some pills. Although of humble origin, Aunt Xue¡¯s biological father had served as a staff in the Nalan Mansion in his early years. After she moved to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she fortuitously met Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s mother and, being a flatterer, secured the support of the Crown Princess Consort. ¡°These are Bone Healing Pills; take them, and you will recover quickly. Here are some Healing Elixirs; once you heal, take them to the Seventh Prince. The Prince is easily swayed; just blame the horse trampling incident on Feng Bailing, and he will surely stand up for you.¡± With Aunt Xue¡¯s words, Feng Xiangxue broke into tears of laughter. Feng Xiangxue thought about how her grandmother would soon return and knew of Ding San¡¯s death at the hands of Feng Bailing; she would definitely take care of Feng Bailing. In the warm pavilion of the west wing, Dugu Wu examined the shabby room furnishings. She¡¯s living in this dreadful place with Feng Xiaoli? Feng Bailing was giving Xiaoli some hot water to drink and wiped her down with water, trying to cool her physically, but Xiaoli¡¯s fever did not subside. After checking again, Feng Bailing confirmed Xiaoli did not have a cold. There was indeed something wrong with Xiaoli¡¯s body; she wished she could have a thorough medical examination. A cold gaze from the man made Feng Bailing realize Dugu Wu was still there. Glancing at the sleeping Feng Xiaoli, Dugu Wu lowered his voice. ¡°Where is that man?¡± Feng Bailing looked puzzled. Dugu Wu didn¡¯t want to inquire about Feng Bailing¡¯s past, but what if, within a year, that irresponsible man came looking for Feng Bailing and Feng Xiaoli to take them away? Over my dead body! Feng Bailing sneered. ¡°Prince, that¡¯s my personal privacy. I don¡¯t need to explain it so clearly to you. Just like I haven¡¯t asked about your past with Nalan Yan¡¯er and your child...¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s face changed dramatically, and he suddenly grabbed Feng Bailing¡¯s neck, his voice cold. ¡°Who let you mention her, are you seeking death?¡± Chapter 35 - 35 35 Daddy Her Majesty are you playing kissy ?Chapter 35: Chapter 35 Daddy, Her Majesty, are you playing kissy? Chapter 35: Chapter 35 Daddy, Her Majesty, are you playing kissy? The origins of Dongfang Jin and Dongfang Xiu... Once revealed, it would be a disaster of epic proportions. A sharp silver needle flashed in front of Dugu Wu¡¯s golden eyes. Feng Bailing flicked the stray hairs on her forehead, the needles between her fingers twinkling coldly. ¡°Ninth Prince, I hate it most when people threaten me. Next time, if you dare to be fierce with me again, watch out¡ªI¡¯ll turn you into a porcupine.¡± Dugu Wu showed no intention of letting go. ¡°Daddy, Mommy~¡± On the bed, Feng Xiaoli woke up, her childlike voice calling out. Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu were startled; they absolutely could not let the child see them fighting. Dugu Wu pulled, hugging Feng Bailing into his arms. Feng Xiaoli exclaimed, covering her eyes with her chubby little hands, yet her dark, round eyes still peeped out through the gaps between her fingers from time to time. ¡°Daddy, Mommy, are you going to kiss? Xiao Li can¡¯t see anything.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s face was full of black lines. Feng Bailing coughed lightly twice, pushed Dugu Wu away, and after touching Feng Xiaoli¡¯s forehead, she found the child broke out in sweat and the fever had receded. This rate, it was a medical miracle. Feng Xiaoli was taken out by Chun Liu to wash up. With such a commotion, all thoughts of Crown Princess Consort and despicable men were thrown to Javaland. ¡°How do you plan to treat my leg?¡± Dugu Wu asked coldly, and they reached some tacit agreement, keeping mum about Nalan Yan¡¯er. ¡°I need some time, and I also need the help of a doctor knowledgeable in poisons. Besides, if you find using a wheelchair inconvenient, I can design a crutch for you; your left leg can be treated first to let you stand on one leg.¡± Feng Bailing had studied the medical records; Dugu Wu¡¯s right knee joint was completely necrotic, even with detoxification, the knee joint needed to be replaced. She needed an expert in poison, and additionally, she needed an artificial joint, to perform surgery. She had tried before, with her current seventh sense, the first aid kit could provide small devices like a sphygmomanometer, but artificially making a joint was a fool¡¯s dream. Once she and Dugu Wu are married and spending time day and night, perhaps her seventh sense shall soar, and then the opportunity for an artificial joint may come. ¡°I will ask Lu Yin to come over; he¡¯s a disciple of Poison Dragon Villa, skilled in medical poisons. Whether he¡¯s willing to teach you is up to your ability.¡± Dugu Wu and Lu Yin were not in a subordinate relationship like Feng Wan; although Lu Yin always secretly despised Dugu Wu, they were companions in adversity. ¡°Also, for over a year, you can no longer practice martial arts. Your cultivation has grown too rapidly, and your body cannot withstand it. Inner Strength, namely Gang Qi, will backlash against your Eight Meridians. Unless you find a Method to strengthen your body, every time you practice martial arts, it¡¯s equivalent to slowly committing suicide.¡± Feng Bailing spoke sternly; dealing with such a disobedient patient like Dugu Wu was also very frustrating. Seeing Dugu Wu fall into deep thought, Feng Bailing pondered secretly. ¡°Actually, the ill health of Dugu Wu likely has something to do with that chain on the Purple Gold Dragon, suppressing his fortune. If those chains could be broken, his fortune would defy destiny, and every ailment could be easily resolved.¡± ¡°Daddy, let¡¯s make a snowman.¡± Feng Xiaoli, having changed her clothes, came back and clung to Dugu Wu¡¯s arm, rocking it non-stop, her face innocent and adorable. Next door, Xiao Pang¡¯s daddy always made Xiao Pang a big snowman in winter, and she had long desired a big snowman. Dugu Wu¡¯s face stiffened as he said dryly. ¡°There¡¯s no snow.¡± In late winter, Chu City, situated at the border between the north and south, had begun to see snow melting; only a light layer of snow remained on the trees in the courtyard of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. The coldest time of the year had passed. ¡°Let it snow.¡± Feng Xiaoli pouted and mumbled. ¡°My lord, it¡¯s snowing heavily outside; should we go pick up the Young Master?¡± From outside the west wing, Feng Wan asked in a deep voice. Snowing? Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu turned their gaze to the window at the same time. Feather-like heavy snow blinded Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes. How could there be such heavy snow at this time of season? Feng Bailing looked towards Feng Xiaoli. Dugu Wu also stared out the window, his gaze slightly condensed, recalling the knife that Feng Wan broke last time. Feng Xiaoli clapped her little hands, her little face flushed with happiness, looking like a fully ripened red apple. Dugu Wu¡¯s voice deepened. Feng Wan acknowledged and was about to enter to push Dugu Wu. ¡°Go and fetch Xiaojin.¡± As Dugu Wu spoke, Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes flickered. Could it be... Half an hour later, Princess Consort Shun finally wore a smile on her face, satisfied and walking out of the Flower Hall. She also considerately told Princess Yong¡¯an to take care of her health, not needing to see her out. Princess Yong¡¯an, being from the Royal Family, understood propriety well. She was empathetic towards the requests of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion and indicated she would discuss them with Feng Bailing. Just a few steps after Princess Consort Shun left, she heard laughter of children coming from the courtyard ahead. With a thump, a snowball flew over, hitting Princess Consort Shun right in the face. ¡°How daring, to be disrespectful to Princess Consort.¡± The nanny beside her was about to scold when Princess Consort Shun covered the nanny¡¯s mouth with her hand, her eyeballs nearly popping out in astonishment. In the yard, just covered with heavy snow, sat a man in a wheelchair. Chapter 36 - 36 36 Conditions for Marriage ?Chapter 36: Chapter 36: Conditions for Marriage Chapter 36: Chapter 36: Conditions for Marriage Dugu Wu¡¯s movements and expressions were stiff, not because of the cold weather, but because he was accompanying a little girl in a red cloak as she rolled snowballs and built snowmen. The scene was too beautiful... oh, too terrifying!! Princess Consort Shun felt her eyes were going blind. Sitting in the wheelchair was none other than Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince, who slaughtered numerous enemies on the battlefield as easily as chopping watermelons. By dusk, outside the west wing, there were four snowmen of various sizes. According to Feng Xiaoli, they represented daddy, mommy, Xiaoli, and a surely handsome little brother. Feng Bailing took the opportunity, while Xiaoli was happily making snowmen, to tell her that she would have a little brother soon, and that he would be as handsome as Dugu Wu. Xiaoli¡¯s eyes immediately sparkled with excitement, and she joyfully accepted the fact, even eagerly building a little snowman for her little brother. During dinner, Feng Bailing listened to Princess Yong¡¯an talk about the betrothal. ¡°Study the six arts?¡± Feng Bailing served Princess Yong¡¯an a bowl of ginseng chicken soup. ¡°In the past years, the reputation hadn¡¯t been good, and the Prince Mansion inevitably had its reservations; Princess Consort Shun worried that the servants in the manor wouldn¡¯t respect you, so she insisted you learn the six arts well, to win people over when you join the family.¡± Princess Yong¡¯an had a good impression of Dugu Wu, aware of his brilliant military achievements over the years; despite his disability, he was still a Prince. The matter of sending the daughter to study was also repeatedly considered by Dongfang Lianhua. Although unmarried, Feng Bailing bore a child, and although Dugu Wu had publicly acknowledged Xiaoli¡¯s identity, people still inevitably looked down upon her; to gain recognition from the top female academy, Yuxiu Academy, meant that Feng Bailing¡¯s position as Princess Consort was justified. Feng Bailing certainly knew about the top female academy. Yuxiu Academy, renowned alongside the Imperial Academy, only accepted female students, while the latter admitted only male students. Members of the Great Chu Royal Family as well as children of officials ranked fifth-rank and above all attended the Imperial Academy and Yuxiu Academy for education. Yuxiu Academy was also one of the important means for aristocrats in Chu City to select daughters-in-law; for instance, a few years ago, Nalan Yan¡¯er topped the six arts examination in Yuxiu Academy, and because of her exceptional talents, she was chosen by the Royal Family. ¡°During winter, Yuxiu Academy doesn¡¯t hold classes. When the spring begins, school will start, and I will have your father write a recommendation letter for you to study with Xiangxue and Ruoyan. This time, don¡¯t drop out midway again.¡± In another life, Feng Bailing had studied at Yuxiu Academy for a month, but because of the complex curriculum and her disinterest in studies, she was only preoccupied with Dongfang Li; unable to pass the monthly evaluation, Bailing dropped out in frustration. But when it came to the recommendation letter, Dongfang Lianhua hit a snag with Feng Zhanlian. Inside the south wing, Feng Zhanlian finally felt some relief from his wound¡¯s pain after finishing the medicinal soup personally prepared by Aunt Xue. Hearing that Feng Bailing intended to study at Yuxiu Academy, he sneered. ¡°She was the one who wanted to drop out in the first place. Now she wants to go back to school at her age of nineteen; isn¡¯t she just trying to shame herself even more?¡± Feng Zhanlian was once a top scorer, but after the Wenhua Seal was destroyed, his prospects were ruined. Looking at his peers, which one didn¡¯t hold a higher position, whose legitimate children didn¡¯t have better prospects than his? Seeing Dongfang Lianhua restless, Aunt Xue massaged Feng Zhanlian¡¯s shoulders to comfort him. ¡°Sister, you don¡¯t know, it¡¯s not that father is unwilling to write the recommendation letter, it¡¯s that his right hand is disabled, he can no longer write letters.¡± Aunt Xue said, her voice breaking into sobs. Mentioning his hand only served to fuel Feng Zhanlian¡¯s anger. After his hand was struck by a stone by Dugu Wu, the doctor had already seen it and said the tendons in his right hand were severed. Even if the injury healed, he wouldn¡¯t be able to write properly for the rest of his life. First, Dongfang Lianhua dragged him down by causing him to lose the Wenhua Seal, and then Feng Bailing crippled his hand. These mother and daughter were simply his destined scourges! ¡°You give birth to a good son and daughter, making me lose all my face. One was swept out of the Imperial Academy, the other was withdrawn from the Yuxiu Academy. I will not write the recommendation letter. If you have the capability, go find someone else to write it.¡± Feng Zhanlian, with a flick of his sleeve, had an exceedingly grim look on his face. Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s chest tightened, her lips turned pale, her blood pressure soared suddenly, and everything in front of her started to spin. Nanny Gui, seeing this, was also startled and hastily took out a packet of powdered medicine to administer to Dongfang Lianhua. It was crushed blood pressure medication that Feng Bailing had instructed Nanny Gui to carry at all times to prevent mishaps. Feng Bailing had warned that the medicine should not be taken out in front of others, but in her panic, Nanny Gui had forgotten. After taking the medicine, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s complexion improved somewhat. Aunt Xue, watching from the side, couldn¡¯t help but feel alarmed. Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s illness had lasted for years, and Doctor Yang had already said that there was no cure for her, she only had death to wait for. Who would have thought that after Feng Bailing returned, her condition suddenly improved? Aunt Xue had her suspicions. Taking advantage of Nanny Gui¡¯s inattention, Aunt Xue stealthily pocketed the paper packet of medicine powder. Back in the west wing, Dongfang Lianhua sat there with a furrowed brow, while Nanny Gui sighed beside her. She knew that the Princess must be missing the Young Master. Ever since the Young Master was expelled from the Imperial Academy, the father had forcibly sent him to a northern school, and they hadn¡¯t seen each other in years. Having just coaxed Feng Xiaoli to sleep, Feng Bailing saw Dongfang Lianhua with red eyes. ¡°Ah Ling, tomorrow, mother will go to the palace to see the Empress Dowager, in hopes that she will show mercy and write a recommendation letter for you.¡± Since falling ill, Dongfang Lianhua hadn¡¯t been around Chu City and didn¡¯t know anyone. The only method was to ask the Empress Dowager. Dongfang Lianhua had forgotten that the Empress Dowager¡¯s recommendation letter had already been sought once by the Princess¡¯ Mansion, for Feng Zhan Tian¡¯s daughter from the second wife, Feng Ruoyan. To ask again would risk being seen as the Princess¡¯ Mansion lacking propriety. Yuxiu Academy, like the Imperial Academy, was originally open only to the children of officials and the Royal Family. During the reign of the late Emperor, an exception was made to allow outstanding children from common families to enroll, with two methods of entry: one was by recommendation letter, and the other was through an assessment. Feng Ruoyan was the sole daughter of the second wife, and because the old lady favored her younger son, after the second wife moved to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, relying on the dowry managed by the Princess¡¯ Mansion, the second wife also found her footing in Chu City. Feng Ruoyan¡¯s food, clothing, and daily expenses were no different from those of Feng Bailing and Feng Xiangxue. When she wanted to attend Yuxiu Academy and her talents were found lacking, Feng Zhan Tian pleaded with Dongfang Lianhua to get a recommendation letter from the Empress Dowager. ¡°Mother, I heard you were just angered and nearly fell ill again. Let¡¯s forget about the recommendation letter; we don¡¯t need it. Yuxiu Academy isn¡¯t exclusively entered through recommendation letters, I can go for the assessment. If I remember correctly, Feng Xiangxue entered through examination.¡± Feng Bailing smiled. Chapter 37 - 37 37 She is a Martial Arts Prodigy ?Chapter 37: Chapter 37 She is a Martial Arts Prodigy Chapter 37: Chapter 37 She is a Martial Arts Prodigy Feng Bailing could pass the exam, so could Feng Xiangxue. After the meal, Feng Bailing insisted on measuring Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s blood pressure. It was after returning to the past that Feng Bailing diagnosed Dongfang Lianhua with congenital pulmonary arterial hypertension. There was no history of high blood pressure illness in the Da Chu Royal Family. Feng Bailing remembered her late grandmother, the diplomatic Princess of Beiqi, and determined that the congenital disease must have been inherited from her side. For this disease, giving birth to children is a major taboo. Blood pressure medication from the 22nd century could control the blood pressure effectively, but to cure the root cause, strengthening one¡¯s physique was necessary. Feng Bailing chose a set of Wuqinxi for Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s daily exercise, which is a well-known health-preserving martial art in traditional Chinese medicine. Feng Bailing often taught it to rehabilitating patients during her time in the battlefield. In the small courtyard of the west wing, Feng Bailing performed a set of Wuqinxi for Dongfang Lianhua to learn. After completing the exercise, Dongfang Lianhua sweated, and her pale face also glowed with a hint of redness. Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but marvel. She had only demonstrated it once, and Dongfang Lianhua had memorized it, and without a single mistake. Could her mother have some hidden martial arts talent? ¡°Nanny Gui, did my mother ever learn martial arts before?¡± In Feng Bailing¡¯s memory, Dongfang Lianhua was stiff in her ways and quite dull, not skilled in either literature or martial arts. In contrast, Aunt Xue, being the daughter of a scholar, knew some poetry and painting, which was why Feng Zhanlian regarded her as a confidant. ¡°When the Princess was three or four years old, she secretly learned a bit from Prince Shun, who was a Prince at that time, and he even praised her. But when her Queen Mother found out, she was severely beaten, and since then, the Princess never dared to touch martial arts again.¡± Nanny Gui reminisced. Dongfang Lianhua approached, her cheeks flushed and her eyes sparkling with life, like a vibrant young girl. ¡°Mother, I know you¡¯ve always felt guilty about Feng Zhanlian¡¯s destroyed Wenhua Seal, but this time when I entered the palace, I learned something from the Empress Dowager. The late Emperor destroyed Feng Zhanlian¡¯s Wenhua Seal upon discovering that although he wished to marry you, the unformed Wenhua Seal on his forehead was not right.¡± Feng Bailing spoke attentively, taking note of Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s expression. With a kind heart, Dongfang Lianhua had been tormented by guilt for the destruction of Feng Zhanlian¡¯s Wenhua Seal. She was taken aback. ¡°After a man reaches adulthood, to form the Seal, his internal yang energy must be abundant. Although Feng Zhanlian has a poetic and refined demeanor, the Wenhua Seal had shades of darkness, indicating that he was deficient in yang energy, because he had exhausted his vital essence. He had been involved with Aunt Xue long before he had become the top scorer in the imperial examinations.¡± Feng Bailing divulged astonishingly. The late Emperor saw Feng Zhanlian for what he was, a man not contented with domestic life. Yet his daughter, earnest and prudent, had rare affection for a man. As a father, to ensure Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s future happiness and to punish Feng Zhanlian¡¯s deceitful actions, he destroyed the Wenhua Seal that would never fully take form in anger. This truth, the late Emperor never shared with Dongfang Lianhua. Dongfang Lianhua was as if struck by lightning, her face¡¯s color drained bit by bit. ¡°Mother, you have not wronged him. Both Sister Xiangxue and her brother are Feng Zhanlian¡¯s biological children. The arrangement of Aunt Xue being brought in as my nanny was all deliberate.¡± Feng Bailing, worrying about Dongfang Lianhua becoming emotionally agitated, went to fetch medicine. ¡°Ah Ling, let me be alone for a moment.¡± Dongfang Lianhua gestured with a hand and walked into the west wing, her figure desolate. Inside the chamber, Dongfang Lianhua, shaking, picked up a teacup, and drank the cold tea in one gulp. When she looked up again, her eyes were tearless, and on her elegant, egg-shaped face, a touch of fierceness had appeared. With a loud bang, the teacup shattered in her hand, blood dripping down, yet she felt no pain. She sat there desiccated, allowing the blood on her hands to dry completely. In the ear room beside the west wing, Feng Bailing entered. With Dugu Wu taking Xiao Li out to play, the room was deserted. As soon as Feng Bailing entered the room, her demeanor changed. Her eyes flickered, her Seventh Sense as sharp as hers, she had already detected an additional breath in the room. Suddenly, a figure leaped down from the beam, aiming a hand strike at the back of Feng Bailing¡¯s neck. But Feng Bailing, with quick eyes and hands, pulled out a bottle from the first aid kit and sprayed wildly at that person¡¯s eyes. The mist hit his eyes squarely, and he screamed in agony. ¡°Dr. Lu, how does it feel to be ambushed?¡± The man grabbed his streaming tears and snot, his eyes swollen, struggling to open them, and through blurred vision, he barely saw someone standing before him. ¡°How could this be, you didn¡¯t succumb to my seductive fragrance?¡± Lu Yin wiped his eyes, he had clearly placed the poison in the room¡¯s incense burner. Within just three breaths, Feng Sanwu should have collapsed unconscious! Chapter 38 - 38 38 Anti-Wolf Spray Get to Know It ?Chapter 38: Chapter 38: Anti-Wolf Spray, Get to Know It Chapter 38: Chapter 38: Anti-Wolf Spray, Get to Know It Outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Wan pushed Dugu Wu, while the coachman unloaded two baskets of charcoal from the horse carriage. ¡°Sir, Lu Yin has been inside for the duration of an incense stick burning; shouldn¡¯t we go and have a look at the Princess Consort? What if Lu Yin isn¡¯t careful with his methods?¡± Feng Wan sneakily glanced at the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Through the wall, one could see the corner courtyard beside the west wing, which had a side door open to the southwest. Normally, the heavy lifting for the Princess¡¯ Mansion was done through here; very few people passed by, and it was over this wall that Lu Yin had climbed to enter the ear chamber of the west wing. ¡°Are you afraid that I¡¯ll lose the bet?¡± Dugu Wu returned to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion yesterday and relayed Feng Bailing¡¯s circumstances to Lu Yin. Lu Yin flatly refused. He was vengeful; that woman had forced him to walk for half an hour in the ice and snow! Claiming that she could help Dugu Wu stand again within a year ¨C she was bragging! Lu Yin made a bet with Dugu Wu; the Mongolian doctor Feng Bailing¡¯s medical skills would falter within three steps when faced with his. The incense stick had burned down; they couldn¡¯t let the Princess Consort get poisoned to death. This was already the fourth spouse; if she died too, the Prince would have to become a monk in this lifetime. ¡°Let¡¯s go in; we don¡¯t want anything to happen to Lu Yin.¡± Right after Dugu Wu finished speaking, a small door of the Princess¡¯ Mansion opened. A round face peeked out, followed by Feng Xiaoli¡¯s head. Seeing Feng Wan, Chun Liu¡¯s face turned suspiciously red. ¡°Prince, Guard Feng, my young miss invites you to come inside.¡± Feng Xiaoli, dressed in a thick floral jacket, like a vibrant spool, scurried with her tiny legs and leapt onto Dugu Wu¡¯s lap in a flash. She loved clinging to her daddy; her daddy was like a large hand-warmer, always warm to the touch. The little one had been playing all day, her face and body covered in dust. She rubbed her small hands on Dugu Wu¡¯s clothing hem, leaving two little handprints on his immaculate garment. Feng Wan was about to object; the Prince had an obsession with cleanliness. Once, a maid spilt ink and stained the Prince¡¯s clothes, which led to him amputating one of her hands. ¡°Daddy, eat~¡± After wiping her hands clean, Feng Xiaoli reached out her little paw to Dugu Wu¡¯s face, stuffing a charred sweet potato into Dugu Wu¡¯s mouth. Chun Liu¡¯s face turned pale with fright. Dugu Wu swallowed it down, expressionless, and casually wiped the dust off Feng Xiaoli¡¯s face. Feng Wan silently shut his mouth. Dugu Wu, holding Feng Xiaoli, had just pushed the wheelchair into the courtyard of the west wing when they heard a whimpering cry. ¡°Dugu, I¡¯m going blind.¡± Splash¡ª A bucket of ice-cold well water poured onto Lu Yin¡¯s face. Lu Yin petrified instantly. Feng Bailing, carrying the water bucket, crouched by the wellside, her face brimming with pride. In the dead of winter, the well water pouring on the face was nearly freezing, but Lu Yin¡¯s eyes felt a burning sensation; enduring this ice-hot torment was unbearable. Little by little, his vision returned. ¡°You have no medical ethics, using a hidden weapon.¡± Lu Yin¡¯s voice was choked with tears; Feng Sanwu had really powerful hidden weapons! Dugu Wu, this double-dealer, must have already known and that¡¯s why he made the bet. They should be husband and wife; both are equally lacking in morals. ¡°Dr. Lu, I¡¯ve said it several times already, this is not a hidden weapon; it¡¯s just anti-wolf spray, also known as chili water.¡± Ever since she was repelled by Dugu Wu¡¯s Gang Qi last time, Feng Bailing had been brainstorming methods to improve her self-defense. After all, she didn¡¯t have the Wuji Seal, and when faced with a true expert, she¡¯d be at a disadvantage. Fortunately, she recalled the chili water of the 22nd century. Lu Yin poisoned first, then launched a sneak attack, so, following the principle of reciprocity, she sprayed it right in his face. ¡°Chili can also be used as a hidden weapon?¡± Dugu Wu was very aware of Feng Bailing¡¯s methods; this person would skin even a beast. If Lu Yin¡¯s eyes weren¡¯t blind then it must be due to his ancestors¡¯ good deeds. ¡°Dr. Lu, are you willing to teach me Poison Technique?¡± Feng Bailing said with a chuckle. ¡°Poison isn¡¯t something you can just teach as you please; it¡¯s not like Medical Skill. You, being insubstantial and boastful, if I truly taught you my Poison Technique, who knows how many people you might harm.¡± Lu Yin still did not believe that Feng Bailing could heal Dugu Wu¡¯s legs. Although Poison Dragon Villa was not a renowned orthodox sect, without a sect examination, one could not casually transmit their arts. ¡°Who says poison can only harm people? If used properly, poison can also save lives.¡± Feng Bailing shook her head. In modern medicine, poison is used in the treatment of various diseases; it¡¯s just that modern toxicology is somewhat different from this world. Poison can also save lives. Lu Yin was taken aback upon hearing this; his master had said the same thing. ¡°Lu Yin, are you perhaps afraid that once she learns the Poison Technique, Poison Dragon Villa won¡¯t be a match for her?¡± Dugu Wu said with a light smile. ¡°With Poison Dragon Villa¡¯s five hundred years of heritage, excelling in both medicine and poison, we have nothing to fear from a Feng Sanwu. Not to say that I¡¯m not giving you a chance; here¡¯s a Poison Manual, within it are recorded three hundred and ninety-three types of poison. If you can master them in three days, I will teach you.¡± Provoked by Dugu Wu, Lu Yin became hot-headed. Mastering over three hundred poisons in three days was impossible. Even his master, Hong Haoran, had spent three years specializing in it. Lu Yin, filled with smug anticipation, just waited for Feng Bailing to back down after recognizing the challenge. ¡°No need for three days, just three quarters of an hour. If I remember it, then you teach me Poison Technique. I won¡¯t take advantage without giving; I will also teach you a rare poison in this world.¡± Making friends also calls for reciprocity. Dugu Wu raised his eyebrow. Did this woman also understand the art of handling people? Lu Yin was once recruited by himself and had been utterly disobedient at first. Only after taking a few falls in his hands did he become compliant. ¡°Keep boasting; if I don¡¯t recognize that poison, I¡¯ll call you master.¡± Lu Yin¡¯s face showed contempt as he rubbed his eyes, and once he did, tears came streaming down again. In Dugu Wu¡¯s arms, the well-fed Feng Xiaoli grew sleepy, her little head bobbing like a pecking chicken. Feng Bailing stepped forward, took the child, and handed her over to Chun Liu to let her rest at Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s. ¡°Prince, thank you for your charcoal.¡± Feng Bailing firmly grasped Dugu Wu¡¯s hand. Such is the Ninth Prince, having just stayed in her room for a short while and complaining about her greed, he casually gifted her two baskets of Beast Gold Charcoal that only the Emperor could use. Oh ho! Feng Wan was jolted in surprise. The Prince really disliked women touching him; the Princess Consort was going to suffer now. Dugu Wu stared at Feng Bailing¡¯s hand, noticing her nails were neatly trimmed, of a faint pink hue, unlike Nalan Yan¡¯er who had all ten fingers painted with rouge, her fingers slender and soft. This woman, she¡¯s always so forward with men? Dugu Wu¡¯s expression darkened, recalling that Feng Bailing had always chased after Dongfang Li; had she grabbed his hand the same way? ¡°The charcoal is for Xiao Li.¡± Dugu Wu, displeased, pulled away her fingers, unaware of Feng Bailing¡¯s current thoughts. ¡°Touched his hand! First aid kit, first aid kit, give me a few more bottles of anti-wolf spray, just in case!¡± Chapter 39 - 39 39 The Phoenix Prodigy Who Learns Instantly ?Chapter 39: Chapter 39: The Phoenix Prodigy Who Learns Instantly Chapter 39: Chapter 39: The Phoenix Prodigy Who Learns Instantly In the room, Feng Bailing opened the first-aid kit and, sure enough, there were five more bottles of anti-wolf spray in the top layer, enough for her to use for self-defense on a daily basis. Even a martial artist would lose half their life if they were sprayed with chili water in their eyes. ¡°He¡¯s married three Princess Consorts, and his child is all grown up, yet he still has that coffin-like stern face when he touches a hand; those three Princess Consorts must have been scared to death.¡± Feng Bailing was flipping through the Poison Scripture, muttering complaints in her heart as she recalled Dugu Wu¡¯s earlier reaction. To obtain the Emperor¡¯s aura emanating from Dugu Wu, Feng Bailing had gone to great lengths and studied it carefully. By obtaining an article of clothing close to Dugu Wu¡¯s body, one could acquire a small amount; physical contact would yield a moderate amount; and skin-to-skin intimacy could garner a large amount at once. Different from the 22nd century, gaining access to medicines in the first-aid kit was not at will; the stronger her seventh sense, the greater the variety and quantity of materials Feng Bailing could obtain. Opening the kit did not consume the seventh sense, but to unlock new medicines and eventually open the third layer of the first-aid kit, it would require a substantial one-time expenditure of the seventh sense. Just for that reason alone, she had to ¡°get close¡± to Dugu Wu more often. In the courtyard, Dugu Wu stood with a somber face, not uttering a word. Feng Wan mustered his courage. ¡°My lord, are you thinking of recommending the Princess Consort for Yuxiu Academy?¡± There was another method to enter Yuxiu Academy¡ªthe teachers there had the privilege to sponsor one student. Dugu Wu¡¯s accomplishments in the six arts far surpassed Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s, and at the age of eighteen, he was exceptionally appointed as a teacher at Yuxiu Academy. It was because of the precedent he set that Yuxiu Academy began to recruit other male teachers, including the Ninth Prince. Dugu Wu was reclusive and proud by nature; the fact that he served as a male teacher at Yuxiu Academy was only known within Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion and the academy itself. ¡°Half a month¡¯s salary.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s expression grew even more sour. Feng Wan¡¯s face fell, wondering what he had said wrong again. If this continued, he was going to have to ask his brother to borrow money. ¡°Feng Wan, are you stupid or what? Are you still calling her Feng Sanwu Princess Consort? Which of the previous ones ever let you change the address? Your Princess Consort has always been that one person from the beginning to the end.¡± Lu Yin sneezed and rubbed his eyes. Thinking of Feng Bailing¡¯s audacity, he was even more dissatisfied with her. Forget three quarters of an hour; give her three years, or thirty years, Feng Sanwu would still be Feng Sanwu. This kid Dugu Wu, so deeply in love, once he set his mind on someone, not even eight horses could drag him back. How could he fall for Feng Sanwu? Dugu Wu¡¯s lips tightened, and suddenly he said. ¡°Xiaojin is very fond of her.¡± What? Lu Yin was stunned. Dugu Xiaojin actually liked women? ¡°The three quarters of the hour are up, I¡¯m going to slap Feng Sanwu¡¯s face.¡± Lu Yin suddenly smirked. ¡°Don¡¯t speak in riddles. I¡¯ve drugged that Poison Scripture. She¡¯ll never anticipate it.¡± He was Lu Yin from Poison Dragon Villa after all, and Feng Sanwu had tarnished his reputation. Naturally, he wouldn¡¯t just let it go. At this moment, she must already be foaming at the mouth, convulsing all over. Lu Yin entered the room with delight. Suddenly, Lu Yin¡¯s face changed, and with a thud, he fell to the ground, mouth foaming, body convulsing. The door! It had been poisoned with the same exact poison he had applied to the book¡ªthe unique poison from Poison Dragon Villa, which Feng Bailing, within a span of three quarters of an hour, had managed to concoct an exact duplicate! Feng Bailing leaned against the doorway, her smile beaming. ¡°Dr. Lu, do you still want me to recite over three hundred poisons?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll teach... I¡¯ll teach, isn¡¯t that good enough?¡± Lu Yin felt like crying but had no tears. ¡°¡± Chapter 40 - 40 40 Who is More Arrogant and Domineering ?Chapter 40: Chapter 40 Who is More Arrogant and Domineering! Chapter 40: Chapter 40 Who is More Arrogant and Domineering! Before and after light-up time, in the alley of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Wan was pushing Dugu Wu about to get into the carriage. ¡°There are two horse carriages rushing toward this direction at high speed.¡± Dugu Wu lowered his eyes, the disturbance miles away, as if he was witnessing it right before his eyes. ¡°Or, should we bring Master Feng Xiao to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion tonight and take Xiao Li along the way?¡± Lu Yin called Master Feng Xiao so smoothly, having completely forgotten who was foaming at the mouth a quarter of an hour ago because of him. Dugu Wu raised his eyes, too lazy to even give him a look. With no name or status, how to bring them over? ¡°Feng Zao, keep an eye on the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± In the dark night, a shadow suddenly appeared. The shadow acknowledged with a sound. ¡°Feng Zao, lend...¡± Before Feng Wan could finish his request to borrow money, the shadow disappeared. Two majestic horse carriages, one after the other, stopped in front of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Feng Zhanlian and Aunt Xue were waiting at the gate with a group of servants. From the first carriage descended an old woman with streaks of white hair, over sixty years of age, surrounded by several maids and nannies. Old Madam Feng, decked in gold and silver, leaning on a Jiutou Stick, bore the look of wealth ¨C who could have thought she was once a countrywoman. The moment she alighted from the carriage, Old Madam Feng was already huffing with anger. The second carriage brought the couple from the second branch of the Feng Mansion, Feng Zhan Tian and his wife. ¡°Mother, please be careful.¡± Feng Zhanlian and Aunt Xue hurried forward to support her from either side. ¡°Never mind me, you all treat me as dead anyway. Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know, Ding San is dead.¡± Old Madam Feng¡¯s expression softened slightly seeing her eldest son and daughter-in-law, but at the sight of Princess Yong¡¯an and her daughter not present in the crowd, her face turned grim. ¡°Mother, it¡¯s not that we don¡¯t care about Ding San¡¯s matter, it¡¯s that we simply can¡¯t do anything. The one who killed Ding San is Ah Ling, she has just been conferred the title of Commandery Princess, her rank is quite high now.¡± Aunt Xue massaged Old Madam Feng¡¯s chest soothingly. ¡°Just because she¡¯s a Commandery Princess, she can ascend to heaven? Ding San is my maternal relative, she killed him so casually, and now does she want to kill me, the grandmother, too? Shameless thing, doing such a disgraceful act, all because her mother didn¡¯t teach her properly. If her mother won¡¯t teach, I, as the grandmother, will. Tonight, I shall beat her to death myself.¡± Old Madam Feng had always resented Dongfang Lianhua for ruining her son¡¯s future. And Feng Bailing, having her marriage called off, came with an illegitimate child to freeload in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Being of rural origin, she was used to cursing in the streets, her voice as loud as a gong, heard clearly throughout the Princess¡¯ Mansion whenever she cursed. Aunt Xue¡¯s face showed a worried look, but inside, she was sneering. What if Dongfang Lianhua is a Princess? When facing Old Madam Feng, she never dared to speak. So what if Feng Bailing is a Commandery Princess? Old Madam Feng was her direct grandmother, to kill her would at most be deemed an accident. Old Madam Feng, lifting her Jiutou Stick, headed for the west wing. In the dark, Feng Zao did not move. Princess Feng¡¯s poison was formidable. If she really got angry and poisoned everyone in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, he would come out to settle the aftermath. ¡°In the middle of the night, where is mother going?¡± Someone came out from the mansion gate. Dongfang Lianhua stood under the light, her shadow stretched out long by the lantern. She had changed her attire, not the usual simplicity, but dressed in a dignified Purple Cloud Silk Palace Dress, a light smile on her face, lips bright red, slightly glaring. Feng Zhanlian stared, stunned. In just a few days, Princess Yong¡¯an seemed to have returned to her original self when they first met. Back then, she was radiantly youthful and so beautiful that it was hard to take one¡¯s eyes off her, and with her title as Princess, Feng Zhanlian couldn¡¯t hesitate to actively propose marriage. Sadly, after the marriage, she became boring and dull, and even ruined his future. Aunt Xue¡¯s beautiful eyes narrowed, looking at Dongfang Lianhua with a cold gaze. ¡°What a good daughter you¡¯ve raised! Your daughter killed Ding San, a life for a life!¡± Old Madam Feng never liked Fang Lianhua, who was long sickly and had exhausted the mansion¡¯s wealth. Though her daughter-in-law, she held a higher status, and as the mother-in-law, she still had to pay homage to her. Old Madam Feng raised her Jiutou Stick to strike Dongfang Lianhua on the head. ¡°Old Madam Feng, you mustn¡¯t.¡± Nanny Gui, seeing this, stepped forward protectively in front of Dongfang Lianhua. Suddenly, a frail and slender hand grasped the stick. Old Madam Feng was stunned; she had long been accustomed to farmwork and was very strong, and had once caused Dongfang Lianhua to bleed. Back then, Dongfang Lianhua didn¡¯t even dare to make a sound. Dongfang Lianhua stepped forward, pushed the stick away, and Old Madam Feng was forced to take a step back. Her gaze was cold, mocking, and chilling to the bone. ¡°Ding San is your relative, but Ah Ling is your granddaughter. Ding San¡¯s insults to Ah Ling are insults to the Royal Family. Insulting the Royal Family is a grave disrespect. Not just Ding San, even his family and nine kin should be beheaded.¡± Old Madam Feng felt a chill down her neck, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s fingertips brushed her throat. Cold as the blade that beheads, causing Old Madam Feng¡¯s hair to stand on end. Her voice fell into Old Madam Feng¡¯s ears, as well as those of the other Feng Family members present. Old Madam Feng¡¯s knees buckled, and she fell to the ground. ¡°Dongfang Lianhua, what nonsense are you spouting, she is my mother!¡± Feng Zhanlian was frantic and quickly helped Old Madam Feng up. ¡°That¡¯s right, she is your mother.¡± Dongfang Lianhua smoothed hair stray hair at her temples, a smile deepening at the corner of her mouth. And her own mother had long passed away. By the time the Feng Family regained their senses, all that was left of Dongfang Lianhua was a resolute back. ¡°That vile woman, elder brother, divorce her for me.¡± Old Madam Feng was brought inside, and after drinking some ginseng tea, she gradually regained her composure, crying and making a fuss. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be angry. My sister-in-law is just being stubborn. Your son has a plan. In a few days, she¡¯ll come to apologize to you. Then, whether you want to hit or scold, rest assured she won¡¯t dare utter a word.¡± Son Feng Zhan Tian smiled, stepping forward to massage Old Madam Feng¡¯s shoulders. Chapter 41 - 41 41 - The Appearance Finally Restored ?Chapter 41: Chapter 41 ¨C The Appearance, Finally Restored Chapter 41: Chapter 41 ¨C The Appearance, Finally Restored In the early morning, Feng Bailing felt a stifling sensation in her chest and upon inspecting, she saw Feng Xiaoli sleeping in a sprawled ¡°big¡± character shape, pressing her chubby little legs and arms onto her. A soft gleam crossed the depths of her eyes, and Feng Bailing tucked the little one back into the quilt, meditated for a moment to regulate her breathing. Only when she felt a slight warmth in her Dantian did she get up. In front of the copper mirror after a skin massage, Feng Bailing noted that the bumps on her face had all disappeared. With the bumps fully gone, Feng Bailing could finally see her appearance clearly. Her hair as black as clouds or a waterfall, skin whiter than snow, an oval face with crescent eyebrows and starry eyes, carrying a charming yet enchanting gaze. Her physique after childbirth not only didn¡¯t go out of shape but seemed even more graceful. Her looks and aura surpassed Nalan Yan¡¯er, not to mention Feng Xiangxue who had a more modest background. Feng Bailing put on a veil. It was not yet time to draw attention, especially with a visit to Yuxiu Academy approaching¡ªa gathering place for women where outstanding beauty could bring troubles. The snow in the yard had been swept clean by the maids, leaving only four different-sized snowmen standing. Unexpectedly, Feng Bailing saw Dongfang Lianhua practicing the Wuqinxi exercises. Dressed in a moon-patterned robe, she did not feel the cold at all despite the chilly spring at the year¡¯s end. After completing a set of Wuqinxi, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s eyes sparkled, and her breath felt much stronger. ¡°I see you have almost mastered this Wuqinxi, mother. I have another set of boxing techniques, bought from a traveling merchant. Would you like to see it?¡± Feng Bailing said with a smile. Dongfang Lianhua was generally good but overly cautious. In the palace, she was always careful with her words and actions, and even when she married into the Feng Family, she was suppressed for nearly twenty years. Fortunately, like an uncut gem, with proper sculpting, she would shine brilliantly. Hearing about a new boxing technique to learn, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s eyes gleamed like a little girl receiving a new cloth doll. Feng Bailing taught her military boxing¡ªto cultivate her health with Wuqinxi and use military boxing for physical strength and self-defense, planning to gradually uncover the martial arts potential within Dongfang Lianhua. To prevent Dongfang Lianhua from getting suspicious, Feng Bailing said the boxing manual was bought from a traveling merchant passing by another manor. After receiving the manual, Dongfang Lianhua gleefully read through it, not forgetting to mimic the movements with her hands. By the time Feng Xiaoli woke up, Dongfang Lianhua had already mastered a set of military boxing. Feng Bailing was even more convinced of Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s talent in martial arts. During breakfast, visitors arrived from the north wing. ¡°Big sister, I heard you¡¯re taking over the management again, so I¡¯ve brought over the account books from a few shops.¡± Feng Zhan Tian is Feng Zhanlian¡¯s younger brother, the beloved youngest son of the elderly lady. After Feng Zhanlian married into the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Zhan Tian and his family came to Chu City to seek refuge. Although five years younger than Feng Zhanlian and while they were brothers, Feng Zhan Tian was not as presentable, with his small nose and eyes. Over the years, living in the good environment of Chu City, he grew plump and relied on his clothes and the ability to adapt his conversation to his audience, Feng Zhan Tian was considered a respectable merchant in Chu City. ¡°Second brother, thank you for your hard work all these years.¡± Dongfang Lianhua took over Zhangpu. Feng Xiaoli was there too, and Feng Zhanlian continuously praised. ¡°Is this Ah Ling¡¯s child? Ah Ling is truly fortunate, this child has a full and spirited look, clearly one who will lead a blessed life.¡± As he spoke, he reached out to touch Feng Xiaoli¡¯s chubby cheek. Feng Xiaoli, cheeks puffed as she was just enjoying her favorite osmanthus cake, muttered something as he reached out. Suddenly, a crack sounded, and the wooden stool under Feng Zhan Tian broke, sending him crashing to the ground. ¡°Second uncle, I was just about to inform you, the west wing is old and in disrepair, the furniture is too ancient and fragile,¡± Feng Bailing nervously said. Feng Zhan Tian forcibly smiled, no longer daring to stay, and left with a limp, assisted by a servant. ¡°Ah Ling, after all, he is your second uncle,¡± Dongfang Lianhua scolded with a smile. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be too quick to acknowledge relations; you live in the west wing and can¡¯t even get a bit of ginseng. Does he consider us as relatives?¡± Feng Bailing touched Feng Xiaoli¡¯s forehead; the little one was lively again after the fever had subsided. But what about her mouth? While others didn¡¯t notice, Feng Bailing did hear Feng Xiaoli mumble something. Feng Xiaoli had a clear sense of likes and dislikes. With those she liked, such as Dugu Wu, she would cling to them, but with those she disliked, she ran faster than anyone. Remembering the elderly lady¡¯s words from the day before, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s gaze grew colder. She picked up the account books that Feng Zhan Tian had brought. The main income of the Princess¡¯ Mansion depended on the tax from the fief and the shops, especially as all four shops were located on the bustling streets of Chu City. When Dongfang Lianhua first got married, the businesses were thriving. The most profitable among them was Xinglin Spring, a medicine shop and clinic, followed by a fabric store and two rice shops. ¡°Xinglin Spring has been losing money?¡± Dongfang Lianhua, not very familiar with accounting, soon discovered that Xinglin Spring, the most profitable shop, had a loss of fifty taels of gold last year. This was not a small amount¡ªto put it in perspective, fifty taels of gold could support a family of four for several generations. The other shops were barely profitable, and altogether, the four shops of the Princess¡¯ Mansion were operating at a loss for the year. To cover the shortfall, they had to use the tax from their fief. ¡°I thought the businesses were doing well.¡± Feng Bailing remembered that the shop locations were the best in the city, bustling with traffic. Even without hands-on management and simply renting out spaces, the rental fee alone should bring in a substantial amount. Xinglin Spring was a time-honored brand, yet it was facing losses, definitely indicating underlying issues. ¡°They said that there were two incidents of medical disputes last year and the year before, resulting in a death, which cost a lot of silver to settle,¡± Dongfang Lianhua pinched her brows. ¡°Hearing is false, seeing is believing. Whether it¡¯s profiting or losing, we shall see for ourselves. I will take Xiaoli to Xinglin Spring to check,¡± Feng Bailing said, lifting up Feng Xiaoli and heading out to the street with Chun Liu. Just as the mother and daughters left, Nanny Gui came in, her expression panicked as she handed Dongfang Lianhua a letter. Dongfang Lianhua opened the letter and glanced through it, her face drained of all color. Chapter 42 - 42 42 The Second Brother Takes the Stage ?Chapter 42: Chapter 42: The Second Brother Takes the Stage Chapter 42: Chapter 42: The Second Brother Takes the Stage Early in the morning, the streets of Chu City were already bustling with people coming and going. Food stalls, restaurants, various shops, and vendors carrying their burdens could be seen everywhere, with Feng Bailing holding Feng Xiaoli, taking in the lively scene of the market. Xiao Li lay in Feng Bailing¡¯s embrace, her little head turning everywhere, eager to try any delicious treats she spotted. Before long, her little belly was as round as a goldfish, all puffed up. Fearing that she would eat too much and suffer indigestion, Feng Bailing let her down to walk around. ¡°Chu City has become much livelier than before.¡± Chun Liu exclaimed in amazement. ¡°It¡¯s still the same old scene.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s gaze lifted to the street corner not far away, where Xinglin Spring was located. Feng Bailing remembered, not long after she begged along the street, Xinglin Spring was sold by the Feng Family. Opposite Xinglin Spring was the largest restaurant in the city, named Chuyue Tower. Not long after Xinglin Spring closed down, the shop transferred ownership to Chuyue Tower. Chuyue Tower¡¯s scale continued to grow, but no one knew who the owner was; rumors said it was a prince from a southern country. Feng Bailing¡¯s sight once again fell upon Xinglin Spring. With an annual loss of fifty taels of gold, it was no wonder the Feng Family finally transferred the Medicine Shop. ¡°Miss, don¡¯t run around, there are many carriages and horses on the street.¡± Chun Liu did not hear Feng Bailing¡¯s words clearly, chasing after Feng Xiaoli. As long as Feng Xiaoli was not sick, she had more energy than an average child. ¡°You and Xiao Li go to Chuyue Tower for a tea break, and take care of her... and her mouth.¡± Feng Bailing was somewhat helpless with her mischievous daughter, but thankfully, Feng Xiaoli had a weakness ¨C she couldn¡¯t resist delicious food. To keep her quiet, just give her something to eat. After arranging for Feng Xiaoli, Feng Bailing headed towards Xinglin Spring. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Master Feng Xiao?¡± On the second floor of Chuyue Tower, in a private room, two people were seated. Opposite Lu Yin was Dugu Wu. Dugu Wu did not pay attention to the woman walking toward Xinglin Spring and nodded towards Feng Wan. Feng Wan left and returned after a moment to report. ¡°My lord, Master Shangyin¡¯s carriage has arrived downstairs. Also, the Miss has ordered over a dozen snacks downstairs, including ¡®Four Happiness Meatballs¡¯, ¡®Gold Cake¡¯, ¡®Boneless Chicken Feet¡¯, ¡®Honey Three Cuts¡¯... she¡¯s eating a bit much.¡± Dugu Wu raised his eyes. ¡°My lord, no more deductions!¡± Seeing that look, Feng Wan knew he had said too much, and wished he could slap himself. ¡°Let Shangyin go beg at Xiao Li¡¯s table.¡± It was a coincidental opportunity; he had originally planned to take Shangyin to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Dugu Wu quietly memorized all the dozens of snacks. Dugu Wu felt that Xiao Li having a good appetite was a good thing, better than Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s pickiness. Downstairs, noisy commotion rose; a crowd was gathering in front of Xinglin Spring¡¯s door. ¡°There¡¯s been an accident, quickly find a doctor.¡± A weak beggar lay on the ground, his clothes tattered, around twenty years of age, with a greenish face, barely breathing in, not out. This beggar had just been begging at a steamed bun shop on the street corner, and in a blink of an eye, he ended up like this. Lu Yin appeared calm and composed, as if he hadn¡¯t noticed, Dugu Wu glanced at him. ¡°You said you wanted to buy Xinglin Spring, Mr. Feng quoted five hundred taels of gold. But I¡¯ve checked clearly, Xinglin Spring lost fifty taels of gold last year.¡± Lu Yin grabbed a handful of peanuts, eating with relish. Doing business calls for good luck at the start. Xinglin Spring had just opened for the day; if someone died at the doorstep, their reputation would be ruined. Let alone five hundred taels of gold; it wouldn¡¯t be worth fifty. ¡°Quickly find a doctor.¡± The staff at Xinglin Spring had just opened the door when they saw this scene, the shop assistant was startled and hurried to find Doctor Yang. Feng Bailing was also in the crowd. She had seen the beggar on the street, who had begged for a bun at the bun shop, probably starving, gulping it down quickly before ending up in this state. Doctor Yang was soon called out, and he was the former Imperial Physician Yang. Ever since he had been blinded by Dugu Wu in the street, he never dared to carry the title of Imperial Physician again. He was instantly furious upon hearing that a beggar was lying at the entrance of their Medicine Shop early in the morning. The Prince bullying him was one thing, but how dare a beggar expect him to provide medical care. Penniless, and still expecting him to dirty his hands. ¡°Carry him away, I recognize this beggar, his name is Su Wang. He is the most despicable, he even stole medicine before.¡± Doctor Yang spat in the direction of the beggar. Su Wang? Feng Bailing¡¯s heart skipped a beat when she heard that name. She carefully looked at the beggar on the ground. Covered in grime, without even shoes to wear, but upon closer inspection, the person seemed rather good-looking. Could it be that Su Wang? The shop assistants clumsily lifted the man up. Su Wang¡¯s body trembled, his face growing even uglier, lips changing color. ¡°Stop, don¡¯t touch him.¡± Doctor Yang, who could not see, only heard a woman¡¯s voice. ¡°This boy is a scam artist, other irrelevant people should not interfere.¡± Doctor Yang said irritably. Su Wang was nothing but a thief and a rascal, what evil deeds hadn¡¯t he done for money? ¡°If you move him, the food stuck in his throat will slide into his windpipe, it could be life-threatening.¡± Feng Bailing listened to Su Wang¡¯s increasingly difficult breathing, instructing everyone to immediately lay him down. ¡°What tube? You must be Su Wang¡¯s accomplice, trying to extort our Medicine Shop, kick them out together.¡± Doctor Yang said, peeved. The clerks moved to drive them off. ¡°Stop, who told you to be handsy?¡± Lu Yin squeezed through the crowd, winking at Feng Bailing. ¡°Master Feng Xiao, what a coincidence.¡± He sneakily glanced at Su Wang, just about to say the fellow was acting too realistically, but looking again, something wasn¡¯t right ¨C the boy was rolling his eyes back. ¡°Not good, he¡¯s really dying.¡± Lu Yin¡¯s face changed color. He felt Su Wang¡¯s throat, skilled in medicine and poison, but not specialized in this kind of treatment, he instantly broke out in sweat. Chapter 43 - 43 43 Accidentally Saving the Future Top Scorer ?Chapter 43: Chapter 43: Accidentally Saving the Future Top Scorer Chapter 43: Chapter 43: Accidentally Saving the Future Top Scorer ¡°You wrap your hands around him, with thumbs against his upper abdomen, and strike forcefully on the upper abdomen.¡± Feng Bailing ordered, and Lu Yin immediately did as told. With a plop, a small piece of bun came spewing from Su Wang¡¯s mouth. Su Wang was in a daze, feeling as though he had just been on a trip to the gates of hell. At the brink of death, it seemed as if he heard King Yanluo personally speak to him. ¡°Su Wang, you possess great knowledge, it¡¯d be such a pity if you died.¡± After that utterance, he felt his soul returning to his body. He struggled to open his eyes and saw a face. It was a woman, veiled; her beautiful eyes were like two clear springs, transparent and curious as they gazed upon him. The surrounding crowd dispersed, and the workers from Xinglin Spring glared at them furiously as they supported Doctor Yang back. ¡°Su Wang, have you lost your mind? For the sake of one silver, you¡¯d give up your life?¡± Seeing that Su Wang was awake, Lu Yin kicked him. It was lucky that Dugu Wu had a keen eye. Seeing that something was wrong with Su Wang and having him come over, he almost certainly saved Su Wang¡¯s life. Wait, with Master Feng Xiao here, no one would die. Master Feng Xiao was truly miraculous. With just a few touches, he brought a man back to life? Lu Yin¡¯s eyes sparkled as he stared at Feng Bailing, his look full of admiration. ¡°I am ashamed; thank you, miss, for your life-saving grace.¡± Su Wang faced the woman, his cheeks flushing. He pressed his left hand onto his right hand, raised his hands to his forehead, and bowed deeply at a 90-degree angle to Feng Bailing, performing a grand gesture of gratitude. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to know the proper etiquette.¡± Lu Yin said with surprise. Su Wang was someone he had hired from the streets with one silver, planning to stage a collision at Xinglin Spring, but it almost cost a human life. ¡°I see you are articulate; a learned man. Why have you fallen to the streets to partake in such disgraceful acts?¡± Feng Bailing asked. ¡°Xinglin Spring is a deceitful place, and I was in desperate need of money, thinking to earn this unrighteous wealth.¡± Su Wang glanced up at the sign of Xinglin Spring, filled with helplessness and embarrassment. His competence and knowledge were useless compared to the evil doctor who cheated the world and stole names. Su Wang said, producing a packet of medicine from his pocket. ¡°My mother contracted a fever, which has been high and unsubsiding. I had saved up silver for a long time to buy medicine from Xinglin Spring. Not only was it expensive, but after my mother took it, her condition instead of improving worsened. I went to Doctor Yang of Xinglin Spring to argue, and he had me beaten and thrown out.¡± Indignation filled Su Wang¡¯s face. He was not a citizen of Great Chu but came from a vassal state to Great Chu because his family migrated here due to early wars. Little did he know that midway through, they would be robbed by thieves, leaving them with nothing, and he ended up in Chu City with his mother. Being foreigners, they couldn¡¯t even make a living and had to beg on the streets. ¡°Beizhou¡¯s Su Wang, his father is the reputable Su Qin, and he himself is a talent capable of governing a country. A tragedy in his youth brought him to Chu City, later aided by Dongfang Li to study and seek official rank. One year later, he scored the top scorer, obtained the Wenhua Seal and became a strategist under Dongfang Li.¡± Feng Bailing reminisced. She knew Su Wang, who also remembered the hardships of begging on the streets after scoring top scorer that year. He set up a porridge tent in the streets of Chu City where Feng Bailing, suffering from cold and hunger, had once begged for a bowl of porridge. At that time, Su Wang, despite being adorned in silk and being a top scorer, personally served porridge to the beggars. Such a talented individual was wasted following Dugu Wu. ¡°Peony bark, yam, Shudi, Cornelian, Poria ¡ª these medicines targeting fever were actually correct.¡± Lu Yin examined the medicines that Su Wang had. ¡°The name of the medicine is correct... but there¡¯s a problem with the medicine itself.¡± Feng Bailing picked up a piece of Poria and sniffed it. Poria is sweet in taste and very mild in smell, yet the piece she held had not a hint of sweetness. ¡°These are residue from decocted medicine, Su Wang, you¡¯ve been swindled,¡± she said. Lu Yin shook his head. All the herbs in the medicine were like this, which hugely reduced their efficacy. Xinglin Spring was audacious indeed, to dare pass off substandard herbs as good ones. ¡°Su Wang, take some of these medicines back with you.¡± Feng Bailing looked up, her clear eyes reflecting Su Wang¡¯s face. ¡°This lifesaving favor, I shall never forget, but I have no extra money on me.¡± Su Wang¡¯s face turned red, overwhelmed with shame. ¡°If you have no money, sell yourself to me.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s voice was pleasant, but her words made both Su Wang and Lu Yin stunned. Above them, in Chuyue Tower, Dugu Wu¡¯s jaw tightened, his heterochromia eyes flickered. Sell himself? Shameless! Su Wang was caught in a moral dilemma. A man of the Su Family, with a stature of seven feet and a mind full of thoughts, was to entrust his life to a frail woman? After a long while, he knelt down on both knees, bowing deeply. ¡°Su Wang is willing to serve the lady.¡± He didn¡¯t even ask for Feng Bailing¡¯s name. ¡°Tomorrow afternoon, come find me at Xinglin Spring. Also, inquire if there are other patients who like you bought medicine residue. Take down their names and bring them to me tomorrow.¡± Feng Bailing watched Su Wang leave, while Lu Yin looked on with a face full of inscrutability. ¡°Master Feng Xiao, I helped in the rescue too. Shouldn¡¯t you give me something as well?¡± ¡°For you.¡± Feng Bailing casually picked up a pill and tossed it to Lu Yin. She had given Su Wang a Six-flavor Rehmannia Pill, which should suit his mother¡¯s ailments from maladjustment to local conditions leading to heat-related symptoms, and clearing heat and detoxifying were perfectly suited. ¡°This is also medicine?¡± Lu Yin crawled on the ground, and with some difficulty found a mung bean-sized Six-flavor Rehmannia Pill, both shocked and delighted. My goodness, Great Chu mostly uses traditional Chinese medicine which is difficult to consume and may weaken the spleen and stomach if taken excessively, but this small pill from Master Feng Xiao, brownish-yellow and emitting a blended scent of various herbs. Lu Yin popped it into his mouth and as soon as the pill touched his tongue, he didn¡¯t find it bitter at all, much better than traditional Chinese medicine. ¡°Amazing, Master Feng Xiao!¡± He regained his senses just in time to see Feng Bailing enter Chuyue Tower, and hurriedly scrambled to follow her. Around the corner of the street, an inconspicuous horse carriage stood. Beside the carriage, the coachman witnessed everything. ¡°Your Highness, Su Wang has been rescued.¡± The coachman bowed, waiting by the carriage. In the carriage, the profile of a man¡¯s face was faintly visible. Chapter 44 - 44 44 The High Monk VS Feng Xiaoli ?Chapter 44: Chapter 44: The High Monk VS Feng Xiaoli Chapter 44: Chapter 44: The High Monk VS Feng Xiaoli ¡°What a pity.¡± The person spoke with regret, the mole at the corner of his eye twitching. ¡°Your Highness, should your subordinate go look for Su Wang? He is not a man of Great Chu, has no wealth, and has an ailing mother who has long been ill. Just a little support for a while, and he will surely be of use to Your Highness.¡± The Coachman spoke with a deep voice. ¡°Su Wang is a scholar, a peerless national treasure, valuing his integrity above all. Having sold his life away, how could he bow down for a mere five bushels of rice?¡± Fingers parted the carriage curtains, revealing Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s face, elegant as a painting. On the second floor of Chuyue Tower, Dugu Wu squinted his eyes slightly. Inside Chuyue Tower, Chun Liu was with Feng Xiaoli. Feng Xiaoli ordered more than a dozen dishes in one go, alarming Chun Liu who hurriedly took out a small purse, counting out the silver. Feng Xiaoli had a good appetite. The snacks at Chuyue Tower were savory with moderate seasoning. She ate six to seven kinds, leaving more than half of each, thinking of saving them for her mother and grandmother. ¡°Amitabha.¡± An old monk entered. The old monk wore a faded and tattered kasaya, patched seven or eight times. His aged face was full of wrinkles, with white caterpillar eyebrows and straw sandals on his feet, exuding an ethereal aura. Seeing he was a mendicant, the server didn¡¯t stop him. He went table to table asking for alms, to which the patrons paid no mind. He made his way to Feng Xiaoli¡¯s table just as she was about to eat a glutinous rice cake with a loud ¡°Ah Wu.¡± Seeing the pitiable old monk, Feng Xiaoli set down the rice cake in her hand. She wiped her hands with a small handkerchief her mother had given her, took a rice cake, intending to drop it into the monk¡¯s bowl. ¡°Young Miss, mendicants do not eat meat or fish, and the rice cake contains lard.¡± Chun Liu quickly stood up, paid her respects to the old monk, inviting him to sit. She remembered her young mistress once said that there are several types of people you shouldn¡¯t provoke: beggars, monks, and women. ¡°The two female benefactors have kind and compassionate eyes, both with extraordinary appearances.¡± The old monk smiled, accepted the tea Chun Liu handed over, looked at Chun Liu¡¯s face, then turned his gaze onto Xiaoli. ¡°I take it Chuyue Tower doesn¡¯t want to do business in Chu City anymore, to make this Commandery Princess wait outside for so long.¡± From a neighboring table, a scolding voice was heard. A young girl dressed in light pink luxurious clothes pointed at the server¡¯s nose and scolded. The girl was quite young, about fifteen or sixteen, wearing the most fashionable floating cloud skirt among the noble young ladies of Chu City, and adorned a pair of fine white jade butterfly hairpins. Her features were charming, yet her eyes and brows were so imperious that they did not endear her to onlookers. ¡°Princess Anyang, please forgive us, as Chuyue Tower opens its doors to all customers equally, even Prince Mu must queue up too.¡± The server said with a smile. This Princess Anyang was famously temperamental, much like the former eldest daughter of the Yong¡¯an Princess Mansion. ¡°If it were not for knowing that Prince Wu often comes here for tea, I wouldn¡¯t bother patronizing this place.¡± Princess Anyang huffily sat down and ordered some pastries. ¡°Commandery Princess, the date paste pastry and Eight Treasures Cake you¡¯ve ordered are limited in quantity, and they just ran out.¡± The server softly cautioned. ¡°Then how did that table get some?¡± Upon hearing this, Princess Anyang¡¯s brows furrowed sharply as she pointed at Feng Xiaoli¡¯s table. There on the table, sat a plate of untouched Eight Treasures Cake. ¡°Commandery Princess, that was the last one.¡± The server was so anxious that sweat began to bead on his forehead. Just then, a waiter brought a plate of date paste pastry over to Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Bi Ye, take that plate of date paste pastry over here.¡± Princess Anyang¡¯s favorite dessert is date paste pastry, and a visit to Chuyue Tower isn¡¯t complete without it. Without a word, her short and plump maid walked over. ¡°The date paste pastry was ordered by our Miss first.¡± Upon hearing this, Chun Liu hurried to protect the date paste pastry. ¡°How dare you attempt to snatch something meant for the Commandery Princess, you blind fool!¡± The maid, strong and forceful, pushed Chun Liu aside. Chun Liu¡¯s forehead swelled after hitting the corner of the table. ¡°Amitabha, laywoman, how can you resort to violence?¡± An old monk shook his head at the sight. ¡°What insolent monk, in your tattered robes, dares to meddle in the affairs of Prince Mu¡¯s Mansion? Be careful, or our Commandery Princess might have the Prince decapitate you!¡± Bi Ye said with arrogant pride. Feng Xiaoli blinked her eyes innocently, picked up the date paste pastry, and scurried over to Princess Anyang with her short legs. ¡°Commandery Princess Sister, don¡¯t be angry. I¡¯ll trade this and that for yours.¡± Feng Xiaoli eyed the plate of vegetarian steamed buns on Princess Anyang¡¯s table and asked in a soft and gentle voice. ¡°You at least have more sense than that dog of a servant, knowing how to flatter. A natural born little slave.¡± Princess Anyang glanced at Feng Xiaoli. The child was indeed adorable, with dimples appearing on her cheeks when she smiled. Judging by her clothes, she wasn¡¯t from a wealthy family. ¡°Consider it a reward from me.¡± Princess Anyang instructed Bi Ye to switch the plates. ¡°Grandpa Pi Dan, this is for you.¡± Feng Xiaoli tiptoed to pour the plate of vegetarian steamed buns into the old monk¡¯s bowl, and a hint of compassion flickered in the monk¡¯s eyes as he chuckled, twirling his beard. ¡°Miss, that¡¯s your favorite, how could you...¡± Ignoring the pain on her forehead, Chun Liu, angered, waved her fists, ready to fight with the table across. Even a clay figurine has a sense of anger. They could pick on her all they liked, but daring to snatch Miss¡¯s food meant Chun Liu was prepared to fight to the death. Princess Anyang took a bite of the date paste pastry. Her haughty face contorted in an instant. ¡°Ptooey, ptooey, ptooey.¡± A bizarre taste filled her mouth¡ªsour, spicy, salty¡ªwhat a weird combination! ¡°What did you put in this date paste pastry?¡± ¡°Chili powder, salt, vinegar, and saliva.¡± Feng Xiaoli mentally enumerated in silence. Xiao Li¡¯s belongings are not so easily seized, especially her food! ¡°Miss, your face.¡± Bi Ye watched as splotches of red rash visibly surfaced on Princess Anyang¡¯s face. ¡°There¡¯s chili powder in it. I can¡¯t eat chili peppers.¡± Princess Anyang shrieked, scratching her face desperately. ¡°You little brat, kill her!¡± With a distorted face, Princess Anyang disregarded the itchiness and pulled out her hairpin, the sharp end aimed at Feng Xiaoli. Feng Xiaoli leapt toward the stairs in two or three steps. She was small and couldn¡¯t take long strides, but Princess Anyang was already lunging at her from behind. Chapter 45 - 45 45 Prince Wu and I Resemble Married Couple ?Chapter 45: Chapter 45: Prince Wu and I Resemble Married Couple Chapter 45: Chapter 45: Prince Wu and I Resemble Married Couple The fierce wind attacked. Princess Anyang felt a sharp pain in both her ankles and tumbled to the ground. Behind her, Bi Ye only saw a blur before Feng Wan kicked her down to the ground. Bi Ye let out a scream like a pig being slaughtered as with two snaps her hands were broken. Princess Anyang lifted her head and saw a handsome man sitting in a wheelchair. Between his brows, beautiful creases furrowed, and hanging onto his foot, that little bastard. Prince Wu. Princess Anyang¡¯s face flushed with two patches of red, her eyes filled with admiration. She caught sight of the wheelchair and sighed softly in her heart. Prince Wu really became disabled. The once majestic and mighty Prince Wu, has now become disabled. No wonder father does not wish her to marry over as a mere consort. But although the man was disabled, his appearance was still so outstanding. ¡°Little bastard, how dare you defile Prince Wu!¡± Princess Anyang was filled with both envy and disgust, glaring at Feng Xiaoli, extending her hand to grab her. This god-like figure of Prince Wu, back in Yuxiu Academy, how many female students admired him, his used books and chairs, those girls flocked to them, stealthily touching them. But when he discovered this, he burned all the items that had been touched with a single fire. Feng Xiaoli clung to Dugu Wu¡¯s leg, smelling her father¡¯s scent, her big eyes like a turned-on faucet, tears flowing down. ¡°That person snatched Xiao Li¡¯s food and wanted to hit Xiao Li.¡± Saying so, her small shoulders shrugging. Weak, pitiable, helpless... and able to cry. ¡°Princess Anyang... who are you calling a little bastard?¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s voice was deep and charming, making Princess Anyang¡¯s heart flutter. Prince Wu¡¯s gaze was icy as he looked at the sharp hairpin in Princess Anyang¡¯s hand. Princess Anyang¡¯s feet trembled, and she collapsed to the ground. ¡°Princess Anyang, I¡¯m not sure what my little Xiaoli did to you, for you to both hit and scold her.¡± The voice as melodious as an oriole¡¯s, coming unexpectedly. Feng Bailing tossed a peanut into her mouth, chewed it a bit, delicious! Princess Anyang felt a sharp pain in her ankles, she touched her feet, and then saw two peanuts rolling on the ground. She wanted to stand up, but the moment she tried, her ankles felt like they would break. She suddenly recalled something, looked at Chun Liu, then at the woman in front of her who seemed familiar. ¡°You are Feng Sanwu! It was you who ambushed me just now.¡± Both students of Yuxiu Academy, Princess Anyang and Feng Bailing were schoolmates. But Feng Bailing was always looked down upon by Princess Anyang, whose friend was Feng Xiangxue. During the Spring Banquet, Princess Anyang accompanied Princess Consort Mu in fasting outside of Chu City, not present there, but she also heard that Feng Sanwu had returned. Feng Bailing pouted; she did want to take action, but someone was faster than her. Without the Wuji Seal, it was a disadvantage. The two peanuts, one from Dugu Wu, the other... Amitabha. ¡°Princess Anyang, you¡¯re not young anymore, yet you steal food from my daughter, aren¡¯t you afraid to be a laughingstock if this gets out?¡± Feng Bailing went to hug Feng Xiaoli, Dugu Wu still injured, and Xiaoli unaware of her own strength, always loving to cling like a koala. Xiaoli with her arms around Dugu Wu¡¯s neck, the stubble on his face tickling her, made the little one giggle with laughter. ¡°She¡¯s your daughter?¡± Princess Anyang¡¯s face was as if she was constipated. Why would Prince Wu treat Feng Bailing¡¯s daughter so well? ¡°She¡¯s our daughter, don¡¯t you think we look quite like a married couple?¡± As Feng Bailing spoke, she pressed her veiled face against Dugu Wu¡¯s handsome one, and Feng Xiaoli also promptly put her chubby little face in close. The tempting cold fragrance from the woman enveloped them, Dugu Wu¡¯s body tensing suddenly. His face was sandwiched between the soft, chubby form of Feng Xiaoli on the left and the delicate skin of Feng Bailing on the right. ¡°Shameless! You clearly fancy the Seventh Prince!¡± Princess Anyang was fuming with anger, waiting to see Feng Bailing dumped by Dugu Wu and left in a pathetic state. But as she waited and waited, Dugu Wu didn¡¯t make a move, letting the two of them handle him at will. Was this really the Prince Wu she knew? ¡°Who hasn¡¯t encountered a few scumbags in life, right?¡± As Feng Bailing spoke, she didn¡¯t forget to rub her face against Dugu Wu¡¯s. Her seventh sense inside her increased delightfully by a bit. Dugu Wu¡¯s face was turning almost as black as Bao Gong¡¯s. If it weren¡¯t for Feng Xiaoli being there, who knows into how many pieces he might chop her. Watching as Princess Anyang and her servant left Chuyue Tower, crying and limping, Feng Bailing did not forget to add another line. ¡°Princess, don¡¯t forget to come and drink at Prince Wu¡¯s and my wedding feast.¡± Behind her, a chill ran down her spine. Feng Bailing quickly embraced her ¡°shield¡± Xiao Li, ignoring the venomous look in Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes. ¡°Thank you, Master.¡± Feng Bailing thanked the old monk. Dugu Wu was one thing¡ªhe was family after all. But this master had stepped in to save Xiao Li, defying Princess Anyang without hesitation, a rare kind-hearted person indeed. The old monk before her looked kind and benevolent, clearly no ordinary individual. ¡°Benefactor, you have a good face.¡± The old monk examined Feng Bailing closely, his wrinkled face relaxing into a smile. ¡°Master, are you suffering from presbyopia?¡± Feng Wan was treating Chun Liu¡¯s wound on her forehead. Upon hearing this, he laughed. To call that Delusional Girl¡¯s face a ¡®good¡¯ one, the Master must have quite an unusual taste! Slap, his hand was swatted away by Chun Liu. Chun Liu glared at him with puffed cheeks. ¡°My miss has a good face indeed, you¡¯re the one with presbyopia.¡± Feng Wan rubbed his hand; he was so young, how could he have presbyopia? ¡°The master flatters me, I am but an ordinary person.¡± Feng Bailing didn¡¯t believe in fortune-telling or face reading. ¡°Young lady was destined to be a beauty destined for tragedy, yet you could turn misfortune into fortune. How could you be an ordinary person?¡± The old monk chuckled, twirling his beard. Below the surface, Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes began to toss and turn like raging waves. ¡°Shangyin, I asked you to examine Xiao Li.¡± Dugu Wu saw the old monk staring at Feng Bailing for half a day, his face creased with a smile resembling a blooming chrysanthemum, his tone inexplicably displeased. Every time the old monk saw him, it was as if he owed money, with a stern face. Why was he now smiling like Maitreya Buddha upon seeing Feng Bailing? ¡°The young benefactor bears the features of a celestial being, but she must speak and act cautiously, or else it might diminish her good fortune.¡± ¡°Be more specific.¡± Every time Dugu Wu heard this old monk speak, he found it all very mystifying. ¡°When I gave birth to Xiao Li prematurely, she had a weak constitution, falling ill with fevers every so often. Is this related to what the master mentioned about diminishing good fortune?¡± Feng Bailing was convinced that the old monk was no simple person. ¡°Lady benefactor is astute. The young benefactor has three calamities in her life. The first was at birth, the second has just passed, and the third will be at the time of her marriage. In all other times, misfortune and fortune will go hand in hand. As long as her elders take good care of her, she will turn calamity into blessing.¡± The old monk did not elaborate further and handed his alms bowl to Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Young benefactor, offer a peach and receive a jade in return; I give you this bowl in hopes that the rest of your life will be free from worries.¡± Saying that, he smiled and left. Xiao Li held the round golden bowl, looking inside at nothing but her own round, chubby little face. Feng Bailing, full of thoughts, was carrying Feng Xiaoli out of Chuyue Tower when she noticed Chun Liu holding a food box. Opening it, they found all kinds of pastries and snacks, which they said were from Prince Wu for the little miss. Upon returning to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she heard voices in the Flower Hall. Listening carefully, it was the voices of Feng Zhan Tian and Dongfang Lianhua. Chapter 46 - 46 46 The Struggle with Uncle Zha ?Chapter 46: Chapter 46: The Struggle with Uncle Zha Chapter 46: Chapter 46: The Struggle with Uncle Zha In the Flower Hall, Dongfang Lianhua appeared anxious, with a letter placed beside her hand. This letter, like a bone stuck in her throat, left her restless all day. ¡°Big sister, you want such a large sum of money all at once, but there really isn¡¯t that much in the treasury. You know, these past few years have been tough for the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and after the Medicine Shop suffered losses last year, quite a few antiques in the mansion were pawned.¡± Feng Zhan Tian¡¯s chubby face relaxed, every wrinkle smoothing out, displaying a content look. Having a princess beg from a commoner like himself, such taste was truly delightful. ¡°However, there¡¯s still a way. If you really need money, you¡¯d have to sell Xinglin Spring. Not long ago, someone offered me 200 taels of gold for the Medicine Shop.¡± Mentioning money made Feng Zhan Tian¡¯s eyes light up. ¡°Xinglin Spring cannot be sold.¡± Dongfang Lianhua frowned tightly. Ah Ling had said that among several shops, Xinglin Spring was the best, and if revitalized, it could not only generate wealth but also help many of the poor. When the late Emperor included Xinglin Spring in her dowry, he hoped she would be more sympathetic to the common folks on behalf of the Royal Family. Dongfang Lianhua selfishly wanted to keep the Medicine Shop as a dowry and give it to Feng Bailing. ¡°Big sister, I know you are reluctant to part with your dowry, but what¡¯s more important? The dowry or your son? If the matter of Luochen reaches our elder brother, he will sever ties with him and kick him out.¡± Feng Zhan Tian also knew that Dongfang Lianhua wouldn¡¯t agree; having read countless people, he knew exactly what she feared¡ªthe tight grip was her children. ¡°Uncle, who are you saying is going to be kicked out of the Princess¡¯ Mansion?¡± Feng Bailing walked over, handing Feng Xiaoli to Dongfang Lianhua. Feng Xiaoli, quite cleverly, grabbed a cake from the food box and offered it to Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s mouth, which slightly alleviated the worry on her brow. ¡°Ah Ling, I heard you went to Xinglin Spring. Your mother and I were just discussing this. We think, since the Medicine Shop isn¡¯t doing well, we should sell it for a good price.¡± Feng Zhan Tian appeared worried. ¡°You need to consult me on this matter; my mother agreed that it will be part of my dowry.¡± Feng Bailing gripped a piece of osmanthus cake, not very interested in it. What¡¯s so tasty about osmanthus cake compared to the 22nd-century¡¯s cream cakes and ice cream? When she has some free time, she¡¯ll treat her family by bringing some out. ¡°Giving it to you as a dowry? Such a big decision, big sister, how could you decide alone?¡± Hearing this, Feng Zhan Tian was so anxious that he even fumbled with the teacup in his hand, scalding himself with the boiling hot water, causing him to grit his teeth in pain. ¡°Uncle, the Medicine Shop was my mother¡¯s dowry; she can give it to whomever she wants. What are you anxious about?¡± Feng Bailing smiled, her eyes twinkling, then she noticed the letter under Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s hand. It was only then that Feng Zhan Tian realized his loss of composure. His expression kept changing. The previous Feng Bailing would never dare defy him, her uncle. After living in the Other Manor for four years, he could no longer predict his niece¡¯s temperament. Feng Zhan Tian plastered a smile on his face again, adopting the pose of a kind uncle. ¡°Ah Ling, Uncle is worried because you are young and might not know how to manage a business. For your dowry, choosing a cloth or rice shop would be fine, those are profitable businesses. Xinglin Spring loses money every year, and people from Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion would look down on you.¡± ¡°I¡¯m also considering the interests of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, as Xinglin Spring is losing money.¡± Feng Bailing saw Old Madam Feng approaching with a walking stick, so she hurriedly went to meet her. Old Madam Feng, upon seeing Feng Bailing, didn¡¯t show a pleasant face. ¡°I heard you were made a commandery princess, putting on quite the airs, and you didn¡¯t even come to pay respects.¡± ¡°Grandmother, I heard first thing in the morning that you had returned and bought some pastries from Chuyue Tower, which delayed my greeting.¡± Feng Bailing brought out four or five types of pastries, assisted Old Madam Feng to sit down, and began to massage her shoulders. Old Madam Feng, being of advanced age, enjoyed sweet and soft foods, and her favorite were the pastries from Chuyue Tower. However, some of these pastries were hard to buy as they would sell out before noon every day. The items Feng Bailing brought back were those that were hardest to purchase. Old Madam Feng has always disdained Feng Bailing, thinking her arrogant and like her mother, ugly and inarticulate, practically useless. But today, she felt that this granddaughter seemed to show a bit of filial piety. Those small hands on her old bones felt like fluffing cotton, rising and falling, and the soreness from sitting in the carriage the previous days seemed to disappear all at once. ¡°Is she the daughter of you and Prince Wu? Fair and plump, she does look decent enough.¡± Old Madam Feng had already heard that this little wild seed was Prince Wu¡¯s daughter. Hearing that Prince Wu had become disabled, but since Prince Shun¡¯s family had a great fortune, this little wild seed would still be a Commandery Princess, which might bring some benefits to the Feng Family. ¡°Mother, we were just discussing Ah Ling¡¯s dowry. My sister-in-law plans to give the Medicine Shop as Ah Ling¡¯s dowry.¡± Feng Zhan Tian hurriedly spoke. ¡°How can that be acceptable? Without the Medicine Shop, what will we live on?¡± Old Madam Feng immediately showed her reluctance. Daughters are but a losing investment, what need for such dowries. ¡°Grandmother, you may not be aware, Xinglin Spring has been losing money, last year it lost fifty taels of gold. By making it her dowry and taking it to the Prince Mansion, we would no longer need to subsidize from the Princess¡¯ Mansion; instead, we would take money from the Prince Mansion.¡± Feng Bailing pulled out the ledger and informed Old Madam Feng. Old Madam Feng couldn¡¯t recognize many characters, but she could still recognize the figure of fifty taels of gold at the end of the ledger. ¡°Fifty taels of gold, that much?¡± Old Madam Feng¡¯s eyes nearly popped out. She thought selling medicine would earn more by exploiting the common people, not expecting it to be a swallowing gold beast. ¡°And there is Doctor Yang, he takes ten taels of gold as his salary from the shop every year.¡± Feng Bailing sighed heavily. A doctor requires ten taels of gold! ¡°Just give it to you as your dowry; after all, you are also a Commandery Princess, it shouldn¡¯t be too shabby.¡± Old Madam Feng looked disdainful but was calculating in her mind, luckily, there were still land taxes and three shops. Feng Zhan Tian¡¯s cheeks quivered fiercely, feeling as if the world was spinning. Oh my dear mother! Five hundred taels of gold, gone just like that! Feng Zhan Tian, like a defeated rooster, supported Old Madam Feng as they left. ¡°Well done, Chun Liu.¡± Feng Bailing praised, with Chun Liu blushing. She still didn¡¯t know why her mistress had sent her to invite Old Madam Feng as soon as she returned to the mansion; it turned out to be to enlist Old Madam Feng¡¯s ¡°help.¡± In the Feng Family, these two brothers, one heartlessly indifferent and the other cunningly greedy, both shared one fatal flaw: foolish filial piety. ¡°Mother, I heard, did my brother send a letter?¡± Feng Bailing said smilingly, sitting next to Dongfang Lianhua. Chapter 47 - 47 47 Little Wolf Dog Brother ?Chapter 47: Chapter 47: Little Wolf Dog Brother Chapter 47: Chapter 47: Little Wolf Dog Brother Dongfang Lianhua gave a bitter smile. ¡°Originally, I shouldn¡¯t have told you about this, especially since you are about to get married and are busy preparing for the Yuxiu Academy exams.¡± Feng Luochen is Feng Bailing¡¯s younger brother, one year her junior. Just like Feng Bailing, he was raised by Aunt Xue. Being the legitimate son of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, he was wild and uncontrollable. Four years ago, just after Feng Bailing was sent to the Other Manor, he was expelled from the Imperial Academy. Feng Zhanlian, considering him an uneducated idler, sent him to the Fengtian Academy in the north for schooling. This letter was a complaint from the Dean of Fengtian Academy. ¡°How can you be so useless, dropping out just because you were bullied. Tell me, who spoke ill of you, I¡¯ll teach them a lesson!¡± ¡°That hypocrite Dongfang Li, daring to break off the engagement! I told you long ago that he and Feng Xiangxue were already exchanging flirtatious looks, you should¡¯ve given up hope, but you wouldn¡¯t listen.¡± ¡°Wait for me, once I have made enough achievements, I will ask the Emperor to restore the Princess¡¯ Mansion to us, and I¡¯ll bring you back home.¡± His prison clothes were stained with blood, his lips parched, bearing wounds left by torture. Tall and sturdy, his youthful appearance yet to fade, he faced exile with indifference. He insisted she not see him off. Without looking back, he walked away from the prosperous Chu City towards the harsh and cold frontier battlefield. That was her brother, who always spoke coldly and looked down on her from childhood. For her, he had beaten those who mocked her at the Imperial Academy, resulting in his expulsion. For her, he confronted Dongfang Li, and was then framed by villains and clanged in prison. For her, he volunteered for military service, hoping to reclaim the Princess¡¯ Mansion through his valor. Courageous in battle, he stormed into the enemy camp and ultimately was pierced by over a hundred arrows, dying on the frontier battlefield. That was her brother, Feng Luochen. In that life, she never saw his last moments and let him die in a foreign land. Her vision gradually blurred ¡ª Feng Bailing thought that in the years she had been reduced to the streets, she had already cried all her tears dry. ¡°Luochen was neglectful and unambitious, wasting his days with bad company, failing repeatedly in the academy reviews, and even picked up a gambling addiction. He owes the local gambling house 150 gold taels.¡± Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s voice brought Feng Bailing back to reality. Dongfang Lianhua was also distressed over this son. Feng Zhanlian came from a scholarly background and despised warriors; both his sons pursued scholarly careers, and as the legitimate heir, Feng Luochen was sent to the Imperial Academy early on. But he was consistently underperforming there, weaker even than the average child student, and Feng Zhanlian felt his own face had been utterly lost. He hoped there would be an improvement after sending him to Fengtian Academy, but only saw him worsening. Debts must be paid; the gambling house threatened that if they didn¡¯t receive 150 gold taels, they would chop off Feng Luochen¡¯s hands. 150 gold taels is not a small amount; in the 22nd century, one gold tael is equivalent to over ten thousand. ¡°Mother, have you ever considered that Luochen might be behaving so recklessly because he simply hates studying?¡± That life saw Feng Bailing expelled from Feng Mansion, Dongfang Lianhua died of rage, and Feng Luochen returned from Fengtian for the funeral, covered in injuries, reportedly escaping from a gambling house. He broke off the father-son relationship with Feng Zhanlian at the funeral and went to settle accounts with Dongfang Li, during which Noble Princess Consort Xiao and others took the opportunity to file a complaint against him. He was imprisoned for years, until his death in battle. Feng Bailing, having experienced modern education in the 22nd century, came to realize more deeply the importance of teaching in accordance to one¡¯s aptitude. From a young age, Feng Luochen learned the literary arts, and in that lifetime, he even managed to beat Dongfang Li once before establishing numerous military achievements on the battlefield. He was straightforward and had a wide circle of friends. These behaviors, which Feng Zhanlian considered inferior, were in line with his true nature that favored martial skills and fierceness. ¡°But when he was a child, during the ritual of Zhuazhou, he clearly picked up the calligraphy tools.¡± Dongfang Lianhua muttered. ¡°That¡¯s because Aunt Xue wanted to win Feng Zhanlian¡¯s favor and deliberately placed candies next to the calligraphy set. Luochen was so young; how could he understand these things? He¡¯s more like you, fond of practicing martial arts.¡± Feng Bailing smiled, with Dongfang Lianhua feeling a mix of emotions in her heart. She too had been suppressed by the Queen Mother since she was a child, learning to follow rules and to speak carefully. Gradually, she lost touch with her own desires. Even towards Feng Zhanlian, her affection was sparked by the harem concubines praising the newly honored top scorer for his literary grace, after which she sneaked a few glimpses and convinced herself that she was enamored with him. ¡°Could it be that all these years I was wrong.¡± Dongfang Lianhua murmured to herself. ¡°Mother, as things stand, we must first figure out how to gather these 150 gold taels. The Medicine Shop will give it to me, but the Feng Family will certainly not.¡± Feng Bailing said not without irony. ¡°I don¡¯t have much silver at my disposal; you know the land tax for these years all went to Aunt Xue.¡± Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s jewelry, which was gifted by the Emperor, could not be pawned. ¡°The money should be demanded from the person who holds it; our money is not that easily taken.¡± Feng Bailing had clearly calculated the accounts; the Princess¡¯ Mansion¡¯s three shops were valuable, but still didn¡¯t compare to the land tax. Dongfang Lianhua, personally titled Princess Yong¡¯an by the late Emperor, was entitled to the revenue of a thousand households, effectively a hundred households. Each year, she received land tax amounting to twenty thousand stones, which based on the rice price of Great Chu was equivalent to twenty thousand silver; every year, Aunt Xue could lay hands on two thousand gold. Over these years, the Feng Family lived luxuriously, the elderly Lady adorned in gold and silver, Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan lived like Commandery Princesses, and even Aunt Xue¡¯s son Feng Zhao¡¯an¡¯s societal interactions were funded by this money. When Feng Bailing went to the south wing and opened up about this money, Aunt Xue¡¯s eyebrows furrowed. ¡°Ah Ling, it¡¯s not that Aunt doesn¡¯t feel for you. This year¡¯s land tax revenue fell short, delays in collection, little is left in the mansion¡¯s treasury. Spring has come; your grandmother¡¯s room in the east wing is leaking and needs repairs. Also, both your sisters need to prepare gifts for school, each requiring money. Your marriage can wait a few months; once Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion sends the engagement, we can then prepare your dowry.¡± Aunt Xue thought to herself. Whether you can get married is still uncertain; Princess Consort of Prince Shun wants you to excel in the Six Arts, keep dreaming. ¡°The east wing is the oldest part of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, long overdue for repairs. Come summer, it gets too hot and is truly unfit for Grandmother to live in. The west wing, on the other hand, is very quiet and cool, having just been renovated a few years ago, and even has a Buddhist hall. Why not move Grandmother to the west wing? Mother and I, along with Xiao Li, could move into the east wing. This way, we can save at least a thousand taels of silver. As for the school gifts, I¡¯ll trouble Aunt to prepare an extra set, I plan to take the exams for Yuxiu Academy this spring, and then Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion will come to engage me.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s words left the usually articulate Aunt Xue speechless. The former Feng Bailing always listened to her words without objection, one and the same. But the Feng Bailing now, clever and eloquent, had rendered Aunt Xue completely unable to respond. ¡°I must be hearing things, you¡¯re considering taking the exam for Yuxiu Academy? Have you forgotten how you were driven out before?¡± A fragrance wafted through from behind. Chapter 48 - 48 48 Dugu Xiaojins Little Secret Desire ?Chapter 48: Chapter 48: Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s Little Secret Desire Chapter 48: Chapter 48: Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s Little Secret Desire Feng Ruoyan from the second branch came striding in with her maidservant. Just as spring began, she was already dressed in the most fashionable spring attire, a lotus-green narrow-waist long skirt, with moon-white tassel earrings dangling by her ears. She was younger than Feng Xiangxue, but her figure was more voluptuous, and her features more vivacious. Feng Ruoyan, two years younger than Feng Bailing, was seventeen this year. Even though Feng Bailing had been conferred the title of Commandery Princess, Ruoyan still looked down on her. They were all daughters of the Feng Family, yet her second cousin Xiangxue was cultured and graceful, a beauty who had the favor of the Crown Princess Consort and was able to associate with the wives of the noble families in Chu City. And then there was Feng Bailing, who had a child out of wedlock and was incredibly unsightly. Outside, Ruoyan refused to acknowledge Feng Bailing as her cousin. Just the thought of that ugly creature returning to Yuxiu Academy and dragging down her and Feng Xiangxue¡¯s reputation made her feel anxious and irked. ¡°Ruoyan, Ah Ling is entering Yuxiu Academy, and as her younger sister, you should offer her your help.¡± Aunt Xue reproached. ¡°Auntie, I¡¯m just worried that my cousin can¡¯t think straight. After all, her classmates in Yuxiu Academy are prejudiced against her. But it¡¯s tough for my cousin, too. I heard that Princess Consort Shun scorns you for being good for nothing; she won¡¯t let Prince Wu marry you unless you learn the Six Arts well.¡± Feng Ruoyan said mockingly. ¡°Thank you for your concern, cousin. If I learn a little bit of the Six Arts, I could marry into the Prince Manor. Unlike you, no matter how well you learn, you can¡¯t marry into a distinguished family. After all, our statuses are different.¡± Feng Bailing said, her words dripping with smiling sarcarsm, every word a jab to the heart. Feng Ruoyan considered herself both intelligent and beautiful but was, unfortunately, the daughter of a merchant. She was desperate to join the ranks of noble families and high officials. In that lifetime, when Feng Bailing died, Ruoyan was still an old maid at home. ¡°Feng Bailing, don¡¯t play hard to get. Let me tell you the truth ¨C about your examination at Yuxiu Academy, the students all know, and some have even opened a betting pool, wagering you won¡¯t pass.¡± Feng Ruoyan said, huffily. In Great Chu, the customs were liberal, and gambling houses were prevalent, notorious among the populace as denuding nests of gold. The female students of Yuxiu Academy were mostly daughters from various mansions; they had pocket money and would also gamble from time to time. Feng Bailing had not been back in Chu City for many days when the news of her being titled Commandery Princess at the Spring Banquet spread. But by the time it reached the ears of the noble ladies, the story had twisted, and Feng Bailing was said to have used deception and luck, including playing music with the Ninth Prince, to gain her title, utterly shameless. The Ninth Prince was a male teacher at Yuxiu Academy. Although blind, he was gentle and refined, his appearance rare among men, and along with the cold-hearted Dugu Wu, he was very popular among the female students. Feng Bailing having had him accompany her on the instrument made many of the noble ladies secretly green with envy. Gambling? Feng Bailing¡¯s mind sparked with inspiration, and she thought of a good way to make money to save her younger brother. Around dusk, Chun Liu sneaked out of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. At Jubao House, the largest gold-denuding nest in Chu City¡ªand nation-wide¡ªFeng Wan rubbed his eyes as he came to check the accounts. Was he really becoming presbyopic? In the crowd, wasn¡¯t that round-faced person tossing silver notes onto the gambling table? Feng Wan sensed something fishy and scurried back to the Prince Mansion. In the study, Lu Yin was needling Dugu Wu¡¯s knee, prattling as he did so. ¡°Tell me, was it really just a few needle pricks by Master Feng Xiao that day to your Knee Yangguan and He Ding acupoint that enabled you to stand up?¡± Dugu Wu looked at his knee covered in needle marks and stayed silent for a while. Outside, Dugu Xiaojin had been standing for a quarter of an hour. With great difficulty, he mustered the courage to enter. He was a child student from the Imperial Academy, which didn¡¯t close for the winter, and he had just finished school. He was holding a plump porcelain pig in his arms. He opened his mouth several times but couldn¡¯t articulate a complete sentence. Eventually, he gave up, found a piece of paper, wrote a few lines, and presented it to Dugu Wu. ¡°¡± Dugu Wu glanced over. ¡°Are you planning to gamble?¡± The small porcelain pig that Dugu Xiaojin was holding contained all the small silver change he had saved up over time. Being young, he had yet no monthly salary; the small silver change was mostly given to him by elders, with some being reward money distributed at the Imperial Academy. Dugu Xiaojin was unlike children his age; he had no particular hobbies, nor did he enjoy snacks, so the small silver change in the porcelain pig amounted to several tens of taels, considered a significant fortune. Dugu Xiaojin pursed his lips tightly. He was the most obedient child student; the teacher often said that he should steer clear of eating, drinking, prostitution, and gambling, but this once, he wanted to be disobedient, just once. Yuxiu Academy was located right next to the Imperial Academy and the two have always had connections. Although Yuxiu Academy had not yet begun its term, the affairs of the circle of noble daughters had already spread to the Imperial Academy. No one was betting on Feng Bailing¡¯s chance to enroll in Yuxiu Academy; he wanted to support Feng Bailing. ¡°Sir, Princess Feng is attempting the Yuxiu Academy examination. The Jubao House has opened a betting pool, and the odds have already reached one to a hundred.¡± Feng Wan rushed in like a whirlwind. Dugu Wu¡¯s face darkened. ¡°One to a hundred, shall we also place a bet?¡± Once Lu Yin heard, she felt tempted. Unexpectedly, Feng Sanwu was quite popular in Chu City; the last time the Jubao House had such a bustling betting pool was when the Crown Princess Consort Nalan Yan¡¯er was expecting either a boy or a girl. That Feng Bailing was taking an exam could rival the excitement of the Crown Princess Consort giving birth. Last time, the Crown Princess Consort had twins, and the Jubao House became the biggest winner, earning a hundred thousand gold coins. ¡°I haven¡¯t finished speaking; the betting pool was set up by that round-faced girl accompanying Princess Feng, showing just how little trust the Princess¡¯ Mansion has in Princess Feng to be betting pool operators!¡± Feng Wan sighed regretfully. Could this be leading to a loss that would ruin their family? With a smack, Dugu Xiaoli lifted the small porcelain pig and shattered it to the ground. Dugu Xiaojin picked up the small silver change inside and handed it to Feng Wan. ¡°Young Master, who are you betting on?¡± Feng Wan felt that his young master really resembled his sire; he had a great business acumen¡ªsuch a sure-win bet was a rare opportunity. ¡°Feng Bailing.¡± Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s gaze was resolute, which made Feng Wan¡¯s hands tremble. The Young Master had spoken to him, and it was about Feng Bailing. How hard-hearted he would have to be to cruelly tell the Young Master the truth that Princess Feng simply couldn¡¯t pass the exam, and their money would just drift away~ To earn money, he had bet all his last half-month¡¯s salary on Princess Feng not being able to pass! ¡°What¡¯s the situation at the Princess¡¯ Mansion?¡± Dugu Wu raised an eyebrow. Feng Zao appeared outside the window. Chun Liu had returned to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion by the time she left the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°Reporting to Sir, the fourth young master of the Feng Family has accrued a debt of one hundred and fifty gold coins at the gambling house, and Princess Yong¡¯an and her daughter are gathering funds to pay it off. Also, last night, following Princess Feng¡¯s instructions, Chun Liu lifted a few tiles on the roof of the east wing. Before heading to the Jubao House, Chun Liu visited her distant relatives; thereafter, she spread rumors at the tea houses, brothels, and city gates. Feng Bailing is going to take part in the Yuxiu Academy examination in a few days; the gambling house holds betting pools, presenting a good opportunity to make a fortune.¡± Chapter 49 - 49 49 The Day She Gave Birth ?Chapter 49: Chapter 49 The Day She Gave Birth Chapter 49: Chapter 49 The Day She Gave Birth A blood-red color that filled the sky, staining her vision red. Feng Bailing¡¯s grip on the bedding loosened suddenly, her fingers opening weakly as she let her arms hang limply. The midwife reached to check her breath and shivered with fright. ¡°Your Highness, she has lost too much blood and isn¡¯t breathing, we need to call the Imperial Physician quickly.¡± ¡°A whore who¡¯s had illicit relations with someone, she¡¯s worthy of the Imperial Physician?¡± The man¡¯s low voice echoed in the room, with the smell of blood lingering in the air. The man¡¯s tall figure stood there, draped in a silver fox fur cloak spotted with dots of red. The thick fox fur concealed his face, revealing only a pair of boots wet with snow, adorned with delicate auspicious cloud patterns. In his hand, he carried a sword, blood still streaming down its blade. ¡°Everyone leave to receive your reward.¡± The servant directed the other servants and the midwife to leave in single file. ¡°What about that bastard child?¡± The man asked softly. ¡°As per your command, he was sent away.¡± The servant said respectfully. Every word was like a knife, piercing deeply into Feng Bailing¡¯s heart. On the eve of her childbirth, Dongfang Li had someone send her Swallow Wing Soup, and that foolish woman Feng Bailing happily ate it before falling into unconsciousness, unaware of everything that happened after. Lying on the bed, Feng Bailing¡¯s face was covered with ugly red bumps, her figure bloated, blood gushing unstoppably from below, her whole body a mess, just like her reputation in Chu City. The man took out a handkerchief, wiped the blood from the sword, and then set the handkerchief alight with the candle flame. ¡°If you are to blame, it is only because of your bad fate.¡± The handkerchief fell to the ground, turning to ash. The man vanished into the snow, as if he had never been there. The night is cold and dark. Feng Bailing suddenly sits up on the bed, drenched in cold sweat. That was no ordinary dream, her heartache was intense. The child that was sent away, was her never-before-seen son. Perhaps due to her frequent use of the Seventh Sense recently, Feng Bailing dreamt of that night of childbirth. After that night, Xia Zhu told her she had bled profusely after giving birth, narrowly escaping death. When she awoke it was already two days later, and only Xiao Li was by her side. The midwife and the others from the Other Manor had mysteriously disappeared; now, thinking back, those people had all been silenced. She was still overjoyed, believing that she and Dongfang Li had a daughter, how stupid she was not realizing what a precious treasure she had lost. ¡°That person must have been Dongfang Li; he knows where the child was sent.¡± The ice cold in Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes almost solidified into frost; his people took her child away. Outside, a commotion arose, with noisy footsteps approaching. ¡°Ghost in the east wing! The old lady was so frightened she fainted; the lord and others have all rushed there.¡± Chun Liu tapped gently on the door, alerting Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing tucked Feng Xiaoli in properly, the little one was sleeping peacefully, restless even in her sleep, her plump little belly exposed. Perhaps dreaming of something delicious, she smacked her lips in her sleep, giggling ¡°giggle giggle.¡± ¡°Chun Liu, keep an eye on Xiaoli, I¡¯m going to check on grandmother in the east wing.¡± As her granddaughter, it was time to show some care. Dongfang Lianhua also rose to her feet, accompanied by Nanny Gui, mother and daughter headed towards the east wing. The east wing was originally Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s residence, the largest wing of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, complete with the largest courtyard ¨C not to mention, its furnishings and decorations were all crafted by royal artisans from the palace. By the time they arrived, the east wing was brightly lit. People from both the main house and the secondary house were present, and both Feng Zhanlian brothers wore gloomy expressions. On the bed, the elderly Lady lay rigid, her Renzhong acupoint had been pinched and she had been shouted at, but she could not be awoken no matter what. Even Feng Xiangxue, who had broken her leg, was supported by others to come, and just as Feng Bailing and her daughter arrived, Aunt Xue was calling for Doctor Yang. ¡°Doctor Yang is blind; it¡¯s inconvenient for him to come to the mansion. In this pitch dark night, where would you find a doctor?¡± Feng Zhan Tian waved his hand. ¡°Let me take a look, I saw someone faint before while at the Other Manor, I remember the emergency treatment methods the doctors used.¡± Feng Bailing feigned concern and stepped forward. ¡°What do you know? Stand to the side.¡± Feng Zhanlian spoke impatiently. He had already learned from Aunt Xue about Feng Bailing¡¯s behavior earlier this day, openly asking for tribute. This unworthy mother and daughter duo were getting more and more shameless. ¡°Let Ah Ling have a try, it was she who cured my illness.¡± Dongfang Lianhua spoke indifferently; usually quiet within the mansion, when she spoke this time, her tone carried an indisputable authority, commanding the room with something of the royal family¡¯s supremacy. Feng Zhanlian, momentarily lost for words, forgot to refuse. Feng Bailing moved to the elderly Lady¡¯s side, used her body to block the view of others, and quickly found the quick heart-saving pills in the emergency kit, pressing them under the elderly Lady¡¯s tongue. She removed the old Lady¡¯s pillow, unbuttoned the collar around her neck, and after a moment, the elderly Lady took a shallow breath and woke up. Aunt Xue watched from the side, her eyes flickering. ¡°Mother, you¡¯ve scared us all. What¡¯s wrong with you? All of a sudden, why did you faint?¡± Feng Zhan Tian pushed Feng Bailing aside and started to fuss over her with concern. ¡°White shadows, they were floating back and forth on the beams ¨C there are ghosts!¡± Although the elderly Lady had awakened, her hair was disheveled, and her old face was full of terror. ¡°Mother, you might have seen wrong, the east wing room is perfectly fine. Having lived there for so many years, how could it suddenly be haunted?¡± Aunt Xue shook her head repeatedly. ¡°You just despise me for being old! It¡¯s all your fault. In the afternoon, Ah Ling kindly suggested I move to the west wing because of the water leakage in the east wing. I was thinking of agreeing, but you refused to. You can¡¯t stand to see me live comfortably; you¡¯d rather the ghost torment me to death.¡± The elderly Lady¡¯s eye sockets were deeply sunken, anger making veins bulge on her forehead as she picked up the Jiutou Stick and started to hit Aunt Xue with it. She was a rural woman, deeply superstitious about ghosts and spirits. Aunt Xue was hit twice by the old Lady and her eyes reddened. Previously, the old Lady was always sweet-talked by her, but since last night, she had been restless, unable to sleep well or enjoy her meals. Tonight was even worse with the sighting of a ghost ¨C she was incredibly irritable, and anyone who refused to let her move out of the east wing was met with her wrath. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t let your anger ruin your health. It¡¯s just a change of rooms, you can pick any room in the mansion. Tomorrow I¡¯ll have Lianhua vacate the west wing for you.¡± Feng Zhanlian was annoyed at Aunt Xue¡¯s insensitivity tonight, and the situation seemed odd; the elderly Lady was used to hard work and had always been healthy, but these past few days she had been feeling unwell. Feng Zhanlian thought of Xia Zhu, the maid who ¡°died¡± in the woodshed; he hoped Xia Zhu¡¯s unrestful spirit wasn¡¯t haunting the old Lady. With the elderly Lady¡¯s outburst, the matter of changing rooms was settled. When Aunt Xue left the east wing, her face was tightly drawn. Feng Bailing, however, stepped lighter, grateful for the stimulant in the emergency box. If the old Lady who had consumed the tampered pastries refused to agree again, she promised to guarantee sleepless nights and daily frustration for her. But... she turned to look back at the east wing ¨C the leak was caused by Chun Liu at her behest, but how could it be related to the haunting? Chapter 50 - 50 50 Mother and Daughter Together Eliminating ?Chapter 50: Chapter 50: Mother and Daughter Together, Eliminating Harm for the People Chapter 50: Chapter 50: Mother and Daughter Together, Eliminating Harm for the People Moving from the west wing to the east wing took half a day. The thought of no longer living in a haunted house smoothed the wrinkles on the old lady¡¯s face; for the first time in over a decade, she showed a smile to Feng Bailing and her daughter. But the mother and daughter in the south wing were not pleased. The rooms of the Princess¡¯ Mansion were ranked; east, south, west, north, with the east wing being the most prestigious. It took Aunt Xue over a decade to usurp the position and move Feng Bailing and her daughter to the west wing, only for it to be undone overnight. Feng Bailing had just moved in, and immediately she had to spend one thousand taels to hire a Taoist priest to exorcise spirits and repair the house. Aunt Xue had to pay up with a smile on her face. ¡°The Empress Dowager is getting senile. I firmly believe that the haunting was Feng Bailing¡¯s trickery.¡± Feng Xiangxue said, dragging her injured leg and with a face full of dissatisfaction. ¡°Let¡¯s put the ghost issue aside for now. Haven¡¯t I told you to keep an eye on her? How did you let her learn medical skills at the Other Manor?¡± Aunt Xue wasn¡¯t fooled; the haunting could be a ruse, but they both witnessed firsthand the old lady¡¯s revival under Feng Bailing¡¯s care, and Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s improved health. Could it be that Feng Bailing has become a Divine Doctor? ¡°It must be Xia Zhu, that double-dealing woman; she certainly deceived me.¡± Feng Xiangxue twisted her handkerchief in her hands, seething with resentment. Xia Zhu was dead, and Chun Liu was uncooperative, leaving what truly happened in those four years with Feng Bailing as an unsolvable mystery. ¡°I¡¯ve heard the Empress Dowager has been suffering from heart pain recently. The Emperor has even beheaded two Imperial Physicians without curing her. Why don¡¯t I visit the Crown Princess Consort and suggest her to recommend Feng Bailing to the palace?¡± Feng Xiangxue didn¡¯t believe that Feng Bailing could outdo the Imperial Physicians. ¡°Make your arrangements carefully; if she dies, she dies, but don¡¯t drag your father down with her. I¡¯ve heard the gambling houses in Chu City are betting on the spring assessment of Yuxiu Academy.¡± Aunt Xue got her information from Feng Ruoyan. It started with the Yuxiu Academy students, then the Imperial Academy, and finally, the city¡¯s largest gambling house Jubao House started taking bets, expanding from Feng Bailing to other female students from the general populace. Feng Bailing had the highest odds against her, now at one hundred and twenty to one, and still rising. ¡°I heard our second uncle secretly made a bet that Feng Bailing will fail. Mother, why don¡¯t we gamble a bit too?¡± The thought of Feng Bailing making a fool of herself made Feng Xiangxue¡¯s leg hurt less. ¡°After autumn, Zhao¡¯an will return to the capital for his report duty; it¡¯s inevitable that we will need to spend money for smooth proceedings. I have five thousand taels here; take it and gamble secretly.¡± Aunt Xue clenched her teeth, drawing out all the private savings she had accumulated over the years. She had made up her mind; Feng Zhanlian¡¯s hand was crippled, removing him from her schemes. Her son was her entire hope; if he made something of himself in the future, he could even receive an imperial decree. Relying on her son, Dongfang Lianhua could not compare even in her next life. In the afternoon, at Xinglin Spring Medicine Store. Doctor Yang was lecturing the new apprentices at the store. ¡°Who let you sell the newly acquired Lingzhi? I¡¯ve told you before, sell the stock from two years ago first.¡± ¡°Doctor Yang, but the manager said the warehouse leaked last year and the Lingzhi got moldy.¡± The new apprentice wore a troubled expression. ¡°Am I the doctor, or are you the doctor? What if it¡¯s moldy? It¡¯s good weather outside; take the Lingzhi out to dry.¡± Doctor Yang had already received news from Feng Zhan Tian that Xinglin Spring would be sold sooner or later, and he was eager to profit as much as possible before the sale. ¡°Doctor, my lady has been suffering from severe headaches lately, could you please take a look?¡± A woman walked into Xinglin Spring, followed by her nanny who inquired. ¡°From this tone and demeanor, not to mention the use of high-quality incense, this must be someone from a well-to-do family!¡± Doctor Yang may have lost his sight, but his ears and nose were still sharp. Spotting a wealthy customer, he quickly put on an obsequious smile. ¡°Lady, please allow me to take your pulse.¡± Doctor Yang felt her pulse; it was steady with no obvious problems. ¡°Lady, you have contracted a severe illness and need to take medicine to properly recuperate, otherwise, I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t live past a month.¡± Doctor Yang spoke earnestly, sighing deeply. The other party¡¯s hand trembled, and after a long while, the nanny beside her finally asked. ¡°Doctor, you must save our lady.¡± ¡°Lady, you are fortunate to have met me. Though insignificant, I was originally an Imperial Physician at the Imperial Hospital. Out of compassion for the people and a desire to do more for the masses, I started practicing at Xinglin Spring. I¡¯ll prescribe you a medicine; if you take it continuously for three months, you¡¯ll be cured.¡± Doctor Yang said this, called an assistant over, and wrote a prescription. On the prescription were listed numerous precious herbs¡ªLingzhi, ambergris, ginseng, antler, and so on. A dosage just once would cost over one hundred taels of silver. Doctor Yang secretly instructed the assistant to exchange the moldy Lingzhi in the storeroom and some scraps of other medicines. ¡°Doctor Yang, you truly are magnanimous.¡± The lady slowly withdrew her hand and then spoke. The voice, why does it sound strangely familiar? Doctor Yang looked puzzled. ¡°Despicable cur! How miserably you have deceived me.¡± Dongfang Lianhua was trembling with rage. Ah Ling said Doctor Yang was a fraud, had long been in cahoots with Feng Zhan Tian intending to kill her, a parasitic worm living off the marrow that had found its way into Xinglin Spring, yet she had her doubts. Only today, witnessing with her own eyes, did she realize to what extent human malice could go. She was perfectly healthy and yet was diagnosed to not live another month; ordinary folks who came here would have been swindled even more pitifully. ¡°Princess Yong¡¯an, how come you¡¯re here. Princess, I have been treating you for many years, without me, you would have already... Princess...¡± Doctor Yang hadn¡¯t finished speaking when his neck was suddenly grabbed, and the usually reasonable Dongfang Lianhua snatched his collar, throwing him to the ground. ¡°I should have seen through all your true faces long ago.¡± Dongfang Lianhua did the most out-of-character thing she had done in her life; she fiercely slapped Doctor Yang several times, kicking him to the ground. Doctor Yang was scared half to death and, scrambling and crawling, got out of Xinglin Spring. However, he didn¡¯t realize that the entrance to Xinglin Spring had already been blocked by people. ¡°It¡¯s him, Yang Shoucai! He posed as a physician, he sold dregs to me, and my mother nearly died because of his delay.¡± Su Wang, leading a group of people who had been duped by fake medicines and had nowhere to seek justice, surrounded Xinglin Spring. Upon seeing Doctor Yang, filled with unrestrained anger, Su Wang was the first to tackle Doctor Yang to the ground, pinning his hands behind his back. ¡°Fellow villagers, the money we saved for emergencies has all been swindled by this quack. Think of our own old mothers, our children who have died from sickness! Beat him!¡± A voice in the crowd cried out. The indignant villagers gathered around Doctor Yang, kicking and punching him. ¡°Beat this quack to death.¡± ¡°You killed my sister.¡± ¡°Give back my grandfather¡¯s life.¡± ¡°Return our hard-earned money.¡± By the time the government officials arrived and dragged Doctor Yang out from the crowd, Doctor Yang had spat out a few mouthfuls of blood and, with a kick of his legs, died. Chapter 51 - 51 51 The Heart of Parents Worldwide (Part 1) ?Chapter 51: Chapter 51: The Heart of Parents Worldwide (Part 1) Chapter 51: Chapter 51: The Heart of Parents Worldwide (Part 1) ¡°Doctor Yang was beaten to death. Where¡¯s the murderer?¡± Feng Zhan Tian received the news an hour later, slamming the table as he rose, his chubby face trembling with each quiver. ¡°Beaten by dozens of people together, it¡¯s unclear who struck the killing blow. They say Doctor Yang was selling fake medicine, and the government couldn¡¯t find the murderer so they released everyone.¡± At that moment, the attendants at the Medicine Shop didn¡¯t dare to get close. ¡°You say Princess Yong¡¯an was also there, didn¡¯t she stop it?¡± Feng Zhan Tian was familiar with Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s temperament. Doctor Yang had been treating her for over a decade; she wouldn¡¯t stand by idly. ¡°The first to strike Doctor Yang was the Princess herself. Doctor Yang prescribed her an exorbitantly priced medicine, which was seized by the government. The accounts of the Medicine Shop have been taken too, and Princess Yong¡¯an accused both Doctor Yang and the manager.¡± The attendant wiped the sweat off his forehead. ¡°Let¡¯s go to Doctor Yang¡¯s house first.¡± Feng Zhan Tian thought to himself, lucky that his collusion with Doctor Yang to embezzle the Medicine Shop¡¯s money had not been exposed yet. That money was still hidden at Doctor Yang¡¯s. By the time Feng Zhan Tian arrived at Doctor Yang¡¯s residence, he found the Yang Mansion had been sealed off, and the government had taken away all the possessions, including those from the separate residences of the two concubines Doctor Yang kept outside. Feng Zhan Tian¡¯s legs went weak from fear, and he returned to Feng Mansion, listless and dispirited. One thought crossed his mind: the government¡¯s reach was truly vast! In the third quarter of the afternoon, Chuyue Tower was still a bustling hive of activity. Merchants coming from the north and south, upon reaching Chu City, all desired to taste the famous Chuyue Tower¡¯s delectable dishes. ¡°Of course, the government doesn¡¯t have that kind of skill, this time it is all thanks to me.¡± The speaker seemed about eighteen or nineteen years old, dressed in a common brown cloth. His features were plain, easily lost in the crowd, except for a dimple on his chin and lips of moderate thickness that spoke to a hearty appetite. Sitting across from him was Feng Bailing, with Chun Liu standing by and Feng Xiaoli puffily-cheeked at the side, eating just as heartily. The table was filled with over a dozen different kinds of small dishes and desserts. Gong Zhu¡¯s eyes were smiling joyfully. Chuyue Tower truly lived up to its reputation! The roasted duck here was succulent with a shiny red glaze, its fatty skin not greasy, and tender meat. Wrapped in thin pancakes with some scallions and cucumber strips, one bite revealed a secret sauce that melted in the mouth, making one almost swallow one¡¯s tongue. In the past, whenever he came, it would all be sold out. Today indeed brought good fortune; anything he wanted to eat was available! Just as he reached out his hand, the last piece of duck was swooped up by a plump little hand. ¡°Could it be you¡¯re my daughter? With a shared voracious appetite like mine?¡± Gong Zhu noticed that his favorite dishes had been cleared clean. ¡°My daddy is much more handsome than you!¡± Feng Xiaoli proudly belched and then snatched up two pieces of osmanthus cake. Feng Bailing took the osmanthus cake, feeding Feng Xiaoli a piece of hawthorn cake instead. Recently, she also noticed Feng Xiaoli¡¯s exceptional intuition, which was incredibly accurate. Feng Xiaoli had never been fond of getting close to Xia Zhu, but her attitude was much better towards Gong Zhu. ¡°Is this all the information we have about Nalan Yan¡¯er?¡± Gong Zhu came for a follow-up treatment and brought some intelligence on Nalan Yan¡¯er. According to the report, Nalan Yan¡¯er was almost flawless, without any shortcomings. ¡°I didn¡¯t manage to handle this matter well, but I compensated with information from Xinglin Spring, which should match the price you asked for.¡± Gong Zhu¡¯s face showed embarrassment. Someone even the Xingxiu Sect couldn¡¯t fully investigate must have issues. ¡°Doctor Yang¡¯s life, however, is not as valuable as yours.¡± Feng Bailing took a gentle sip of tea. Seeing the situation, Gong Zhu reluctantly pulled out an account book. ¡°There is also evidence of Feng Zhan Tian and Yang Shoucai embezzling profits from Xinglin Spring.¡± Over the years, Doctor Yang and Feng Zhan Tian had colluded and reaped many illicit benefits, hiding the money in houses owned by their mistresses. Altogether, the amount came to a staggering 300,000 Silver Taels. ¡°Later, when I give you the acupuncture treatment, keep an eye on Xiao Li and Chun Liu for me.¡± Feng Bailing got up with a smile. She walked outside of Chuyue Tower, having already noticed a figure lingering at the door. The future top scorer, Su Wang, would glance at Chuyue Tower now and then, hesitating to enter such a place. ¡°Mr. Su.¡± Feng Bailing approached and bowed in greeting. Su Wang, upon seeing Feng Bailing, though unable to discern her features, somehow felt a sense of awe upon meeting the Commandery Princess¡¯s gaze and dared not look directly. ¡°Commandery Princess, I¡¯ve come to thank you. Thanks to you, I was able to retrieve the Silver and get some justice.¡± After the government raided Doctor Yang¡¯s residence, the confiscated Silver Tael was distributed among the deceived populace, an act which also helped Xinglin Spring regain some reputation. ¡°How is your mother¡¯s illness?¡± Feng Bailing asked with a smile. Mentioning his mother, Su Wang hesitated before speaking, ¡°My mother refuses to take the medicine. Besides coming to express my gratitude, I also wish to return the medicine to the Commandery Princess.¡± Su Wang produced the medicine. ¡°Does the Old Madam not trust me?¡± Feng Bailing wasn¡¯t surprised; she wasn¡¯t a doctor, so it was only natural for the Old Madam not to trust her. ¡°My mother just doesn¡¯t want to burden me, afraid of owing a favor to the Commandery Princess.¡± Su Wang shook his head, feeling ashamed to face Feng Bailing. Now that he knew of Feng Bailing¡¯s identity, his tone became significantly more distant. ¡°Let me go see her.¡± Feng Bailing understood well that Su Wang was a filial son, full of knowledge and possessing a proud spirit, keen on realizing his ambitions. His mother, who had raised such a son, could not be an ordinary old woman; she must fear being leveraged to compromise Su Wang¡¯s principles. After slight hesitation, Su Wang led Feng Bailing back to his dwelling. Calling it a dwelling was a bit of a stretch¡ªit was nothing more than an abandoned cattle shed of a common city household, with only three walls and a roof piled with thatch, it was hard to imagine how Su Wang and his mother survived the winter. Approaching the shed, they heard the sound of pots and pans crashing. ¡°I will not take that medicine. If you sacrifice your future for an old woman like me, what face will I have to meet your father in the afterlife?¡± The old woman said, choking back sobs. ¡°Mother, if your son can¡¯t even take care of you, what future is there to speak of?¡± Su Wang sighed deeply. ¡°Old Madam Su.¡± The woman¡¯s voice was clear and melodious, as refreshing as the sound of spring water. The old woman inside had gray hairs among her black ones, and her clothes were tattered but clean. Despite her illness, her hair was meticulously combed. In his past life, although Su Wang had become the top scorer, Mrs. Su had not lived to see that day. ¡°The love of parents in the world is most profound, their toils and tears imbue into their children¡¯s being. They exhaust their hearts and efforts for their offspring, such is the pitiable love of parents under heaven!¡± Feng Bailing helped the Old Madam Su lie down, and with a simple verse, brought tears to both her and Su Wang¡¯s eyes. Su Wang¡¯s robe was soaked with tears, finding Feng Bailing to be eloquent and refined, not at all like the rumored Feng Sanwu! Mrs. Su looked up to see a woman wearing a light veil, revealing a pair of clear, deep black eyes, her demeanor far from ordinary. ¡°Young lady, who exactly are you...¡± Before Mrs. Su could ask her question, a loud boom was heard as the cattle shed collapsed with a crash, and several dark figures rushed in. Chapter 52 - 52 52 Pity for the Hearts of Parents around the ?Chapter 52: Chapter 52 Pity for the Hearts of Parents around the World (Part 2) Chapter 52: Chapter 52 Pity for the Hearts of Parents around the World (Part 2) At the critical moment, Su Wang quickly rushed to the side of Feng Bailing and Mrs. Su, using his back to brace against the collapsing wall. ¡°Commandery Princess, take my mother and go.¡± Feng Bailing saw his back already smashed into a bloody mess by the broken stones, and Mrs. Su lying on the couch with a look of terror on her face. Those several dark shadows charged aggressively, carrying a strong aura of murder. As soon as they entered the cowshed, they formed a triangle and guarded the exit. ¡°Kill that man.¡± The leader didn¡¯t care about the women inside the house, he just waved his hand. ¡°Miss, run.¡± Mrs. Su used her last bit of strength, pushed Feng Bailing away, and threw herself onto her son. ¡°Seeking death.¡± One of the black-clothed men moved fast as lightning, his wrist flicked, and his long sword gathered a slew of blade flowers, stabbing towards Mrs. Su and her son. Suddenly, there was a hand on the shoulder, delicate and pale as if carved from jade. The arm of the black-clothed man was seized, and the woman¡¯s hand coiled up like a snake. Crack, a crisp sound, the sword in the black-clothed man¡¯s hand fell to the ground. His wrist was twisted back, and with two consecutive sounds, he fell to the ground, both arms broken. ¡°Grappling Hands.¡± A look of astonishment flashed through the eyes of the black-clothed leader. He let out a light cry, and three or four black-clothed men coordinated flawlessly, rushing forward. The black-clothed leader thrust his sword towards Feng Bailing. He realized that this seemingly frail woman was actually the most difficult to deal with. The sword gleamed coldly, its light like a spiritual snake coming out of its hole, tearing through wherever it reached. Just as the sword was about to stab Feng Bailing, the blade suddenly deviated, brushing past the side of her face. The black-clothed leader was shocked, only to see Feng Bailing slip past him like an eel. She had a bottle in her hand, spraying it towards those assassins attacking Mrs. Su and her son. A cloud of smoke burst out in front of the assassins, and in the next moment, tears and snot were flying from their faces. ¡°Poison!¡± The black-clothed leader was frightened and took several steps back. Seizing the gap, Feng Bailing retreated to the side of Mrs. Su and her son. ¡°Your injuries are severe; it might have hurt your lungs.¡± Feng Bailing frowned. She handed the chili water to Mrs. Su, demonstrating briefly, and said in a low voice, ¡°Lady, I¡¯ll carry you out. Everyone cover your noses and mouths. If those black-clothed men catch up, spray their eyes and noses.¡± Mrs. Su opened her mouth, her eyes already filled with tears. Over the years, her and her son¡¯s lives had been as worthless as weeds; at a life-or-death moment, she wanted to help them, thinking of her previous behavior, Mrs. Su couldn¡¯t help but choke up. ¡°For Su Wang, without your fine future, it¡¯s better not to.¡± As Feng Bailing spoke, she carried Mrs. Su without further ado. Su Wang, too injured to speak, followed closely. Just as the three ran out of the mostly collapsed cowshed, the black-clothed leader was anxious. He was ordered to kill, and if the targets escaped, their master¡¯s temper would surely punish them. But that woman¡¯s ¡°poison¡± was too strong; he didn¡¯t know which highly skilled elder she might be, and the three brothers who were sprayed might even go blind. ¡°Kill Su Wang.¡± The black-clothed leader leaped forward in pursuit. Behind them, the sword wind howled; Su Wang was injured and Feng Bailing was carrying Mrs. Su, both moving slowly. Hearing the noise behind, Feng Bailing held her breath, her seventh sense rippling out invisibly. The sword hissed, its direction skewed again. The black-clothed leader was horrified. He had killed countless people with his sword, many of whom were close to forming the Wuji Seal, but today, why the continued failures? ¡°Miss, you look pale.¡± Mrs. Su, seeing Feng Bailing sweating profusely, was also very worried. Using the seventh sense twice consecutively, forcefully deviating from the sword¡¯s attack, Feng Bailing¡¯s seventh sense had already been completely drained. If only Dugu Wu was here. At least he could help replenish some energy. Feng Bailing sighed in her heart. ¡°Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh¡ª¡± Suddenly, several cold arrows shot through the air. There was an ambush; the opponents clearly intended to put the Su Family to death. Feng Bailing cursed under her breath. ¡°Princess Feng, watch out!¡± Su Wang saw several people ambushing them from all around, and in an instant, disregarding his own life, he shielded Feng Bailing and Mrs. Su, his eyes filled with resolve. Suddenly, a light flickered. Feng Bailing felt a cool breeze around her, like the night winds of June blowing from all directions, invigorating her spirits. As the cold arrows struck towards Su Wang, a blue light gathered at the center of his forehead. An ancient ¡°Earth¡± character gradually appeared, from invisible to visible, becoming clearer and clearer. Wenhua Earth Seal! The leader in black was taken aback. Su Wang had unexpectedly broken through to the Wenhua Earth Seal at this moment! This man had grasped a great opportunity; amidst life and death, he had an epiphany. Just as the cold arrows touched Su Wang, they fell to the ground. ¡°He must be killed!¡± The leader in black knew that if Su Wang hadn¡¯t formed the Wenhua Seal, they already couldn¡¯t spare him, let alone now that he had formed it. This man must be eliminated! Several screams sounded simultaneously. The leader in black was startled. A ghost-like shadow, unbeknownst when, already stood by his side. He hadn¡¯t even noticed the other¡¯s presence. On the neck of the leader in black, a ¡°red line¡± appeared; the next moment, he was speechless with terror. His eyes met a refined yet cold face, with a high and straight nose, and differently colored pupils that flickered with ruthlessness. The man on the wheelchair, though merely sitting quietly, exuded an aura that was suffocatingly horrifying, as if just being targeted by him meant one would be devoured to the bone. Ninth Prince, Dugu Wu! As the thought crossed his mind, that head already rolled onto the ground. ¡°With the Wenhua Seal formed, his energy is chaotic. Take him to the Prince Mansion.¡± Dugu Wu glanced at Su Wang, somewhat surprised. This talent had been recruited by Feng Bailing first? Did this woman just get lucky? Dugu Wu looked at Feng Bailing, who was now being supported by the arriving Feng Wan. A cold fragrance wafted over, with a hint of sweetness. The moment Feng Bailing saw Dugu Wu, her whole body relaxed, and she tightly wrapped her arms around his neck, unabashedly collapsing into his embrace. Dugu Wu tensed up, his eyebrows furrowed tightly enough to squash a few flies. The woman¡¯s body was soft and terrifyingly cold. Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes darkened, hesitated, and then felt two very soft things on his face. His breathing became erratic; besides that night, he had never been this close to a woman. After a while, he very stiffly pushed Feng Bailing away, this woman had already lost consciousness. But even though she had fainted, she still clung to him like a koala, true to the saying, ¡®Like mother, like daughter.¡¯ ¡°Sir, would you like me to get the horse carriage?¡± Feng Wan, seeing his master¡¯s gloomy face, kindly suggested. Dugu Wu gave him a cold glance, and Feng Wan wisely kept his mouth shut. The next moment, something that would shock him happened, despite keeping a stern face, the master actually took off his large cloak and draped it over Princess Feng. When getting into the horse carriage, Dugu Wu didn¡¯t let Feng Wan lend a hand at all. Chapter 53 - 53 53 She Has Special Abilities ?Chapter 53: Chapter 53 She Has Special Abilities Chapter 53: Chapter 53 She Has Special Abilities Inside the Qian Residence, Dongfang Li sat on the soft collapse. When he heard the news, the cup in his hand snapped and smashed onto the ground. ¡°Failed?¡± ¡°Brother, you shouldn¡¯t have acted on your own.¡± A rare absence of smile appeared on Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s face. All eight elite soldiers were gone, none of them returned. These soldiers, each one cost a hundred gold coins to train. The one leading them even had the likelihood of condensing a Wuji Seal within the year, this time, the loss was severe. ¡°If they don¡¯t serve me, they must be killed, right?¡± Dongfang Li spoke with a sour tone. He had painstakingly maintained his celibacy for many years and hadn¡¯t even managed to condense a Wuji Seal yet, what virtue and capability did Su Wang have? ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have had someone assassinate him, especially in front of Feng Bailing.¡± Dongfang Mosheng rubbed his brow, showing a hint of helplessness on his flawless face. ¡°Wait, you¡¯re saying the one who saved Su Wang was Feng Bailing! That unvirtuous woman, dared to seduce Su Wang?¡± Angered, Dongfang Li aggravated his wounds which had yet to fully heal, drawing in a sharp breath from the pain. Not killing Su Wang was tolerable, but upon hearing that Feng Bailing was also present, he couldn¡¯t hold back. ¡°Su Wang is exceptionally talented; he pledged his life to Feng Bailing to save his mother. Today¡¯s assassination attempt will make him swear loyalty to her till death.¡± Dongfang Mosheng shook his head. ¡°Feng Bailing is just a woman; if Su Wang chooses to follow her, what could they achieve.¡± Mentioning Feng Bailing, Dongfang Li¡¯s wounds hurt even more. ¡°There¡¯s Dugu Wu behind her.¡± Dongfang Mosheng fiddled with the Jade Flute in his hands. Against the jade green, his hands resembled a meticulously carved jade artifact. Dugu Wu had been interacting closely with the Princess¡¯ Mansion recently. He thought of Feng Sanwu, who at the Spring Banquet, with a single song, outshone all others and felt a trace of irritation. ¡°Dugu Wu would never fancy her; he likes Nalan Yan¡¯er. Everyone in the Royal Family apart from father knows this. Marrying Feng Bailing was forced by father; what kind of person is father? He made Feng Bailing the Commandery Princess to keep an eye on her.¡± Dongfang Li scornfully said, he had no regard for Feng Bailing, much less Dugu Wu. ¡°Dugu Wu¡¯s men killed ours and cleaned up the scene. We didn¡¯t find a single body.¡± Dongfang Mosheng had to admire Dugu Wu¡¯s methods; the enemy had anticipated that they were all willing to die and didn¡¯t bother interrogating them, taking care of them directly. ¡°I¡¯ll go to Feng Bailing, sweet-talk her, she will surely hand over Su Wang.¡± Every time Dongfang Li thought of Dugu Wu, he felt overwhelmed. Although the other was only a few years older and even had a crippled leg, facing him, Dongfang Li still felt inadequate. It was different with Feng Bailing. That day, she was still singing to express her feelings. Her cold attitude towards him recently must be playing hard-to-get! Dongfang Li felt confident that he knew all the tricks women played. Dongfang Mosheng paused with the item in his hand, sensing Dongfang Li¡¯s confidence. He swallowed the words he was about to speak. In his view, targeting Dugu Wu would be easier. That man was naturally suspicious and violent; once he knew he was being watched and betrayed... After an indeterminable amount of time, Feng Bailing felt like there was noise by her ear. Struggling to open her eyes, she was met with a glaring purple light. The impressive Purple Gold Dragon lay coiled beside her, the noise was its snoring. There was no one else around her. Feng Bailing was startled. She didn¡¯t know if this was a dream or reality. Looking closely, the Purple Gold Dragon¡¯s size was astounding with its purple body; each of its scales was as thick as Feng Bailing¡¯s palm. The scales seemed extremely hard, probably tougher than any blade or spear. The seventh sense within her body had indeed recovered, Feng Bailing reached out to touch the Purple Gold Dragon. The Emperor¡¯s aura on Dugu Wu¡¯s body was very similar to that of the Purple Gold Dragon; it was a rare opportunity to rub against it, and if she could pluck off a scale, that would be even better. Slap¡ª The dragon¡¯s tail rose high and unapologetically, swiping at the back of Feng Bailing¡¯s hand, causing her to hastily retract it. ¡°Just like Dugu Wu, such a foul temper.¡± Feng Bailing muttered. The Purple Gold Dragon couldn¡¯t even be bothered to open its eyes, yet its tail stood high. Whenever Feng Bailing tried to touch it, it would swipe at her, treating her as if she were an irritating fly. Suddenly, Feng Bailing¡¯s hand moved again. This time, as the dragon¡¯s tail came slapping over, both of Feng Bailing¡¯s hands moved simultaneously. Her hands, boneless as they seemed, grasped onto the dragon¡¯s tail. The dragon¡¯s tail struggled fiercely, but Feng Bailing did not let go; wrapping, yanking, chopping¡ªa whole set of Coiling Silk Grasping Hand techniques were performed by her with fiery passion. After joining the army, she learned a complete set of military boxing; later, she met an old military officer from the Shaolin Temple, who taught her Grappling Hands, which when combined with military boxing, had an even better effect in close combat with enemies. The Purple Gold Dragon had never faced such a shameless opponent; the chains on its body rattled loudly, yet, to its frustration, it could not shake off Feng Bailing, and yet it couldn¡¯t just slap her dead with a single claw. It was sentient and knew that Feng Bailing could save Dugu Wu. Annoyed by the persistent entanglement, the Purple Gold Dragon snorted heavily from its nostrils, and its chains, caught off guard, whipped towards Feng Bailing. The golden chain suddenly blazed with a brilliant golden light. The Purple Gold Dragon was shocked, opening its eyes wide. The golden light from the chains turned into scorching flames, spraying towards Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing had no choice but to let go of the dragon¡¯s tail and grabbed hold of the golden chain instead. As the flames drew near, Feng Bailing startled, releasing all of her seventh sense, enveloping herself in a layer of firefly-like light, resisting the onslaught of flames. The Purple Gold Dragon¡¯s eyes, large as lanterns, stared and even blinked vigorously. She wasn¡¯t burnt to a crisp? Feng Bailing¡¯s hand was unharmed. On the chain, the flames blazed fiercely, strong enough to melt refined iron, yet Feng Bailing¡¯s hand, pale and delicate, held onto the chain. On the chain, the golden light dimmed slightly and, for the first time in history, a crack as wide as Feng Bailing¡¯s waist appeared on the golden chain. Although it was a hairline crack, it still left both the Purple Gold Dragon and Feng Bailing stunned. Before Feng Bailing could snap back to reality, she felt her body become hot, something was placed on her forehead, and a tiny voice kept echoing in her ear. Her Majesty¡ª Xiao Li! Consciousness peeled away rapidly, and the Purple Gold Dragon disappeared. The awakened Feng Bailing saw the familiar carved bedposts. A chubby little hand was placing a wrung-out handkerchief on Feng Bailing¡¯s forehead. Feng Xiaoli¡¯s big eyes were red and swollen, very much like a little rabbit. ¡°Wake up.¡± She leaned close to Feng Bailing¡¯s ear, muttering softly; she had been muttering for an hour, not even her favorite osmanthus cake could interrupt her. Her Majesty had told her not to speak recklessly in front of others. So she spoke softly to herself, but why, after saying it so many times, for so long, Her Majesty still hadn¡¯t woken up. In the past, whatever she said was very effective, why was it that it didn¡¯t work for Her Majesty alone. Chapter 54 - 54 54 The Ex-Fiancé Who Looked for Faults ?Chapter 54: Chapter 54: The Ex-Fiance? Who Looked for Faults Chapter 54: Chapter 54: The Ex-Fiance? Who Looked for Faults Feng Xiaoli¡¯s fluffy little head was propped against her own pillow, muttering softly. Feng Bailing felt a warmth in her heart. ¡°Her Majesty!¡± The little one noticed Feng Bailing waking up, grinned, and wrapped her chubby arms around Feng Bailing¡¯s neck, snuggling close. ¡°Miss, the young lady just woke up. Let her rest properly.¡± Chun Liu came in holding medicine, and seeing Feng Bailing awake, she hurriedly approached. Nanny Gui took Feng Xiaoli away, and only then did Feng Bailing realize that it was around the time for lighting lamps; she had been unconscious for two hours, and Feng Xiaoli had refused to eat. Gong Zhu brought two people back to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and soon Feng Wan brought an old woman and Feng Bailing back. ¡°The Ninth Prince had Dr. Lu come to check your pulse, Dr. Lu is still waiting outside.¡± Chun Liu smiled. She used to think the Ninth Prince was quite scary, but also felt he was quite kind to her young lady. ¡°Master Feng Xiao, I heard you were incredibly brave and saved mother and son of the Su Family.¡± Lu Yin smiled as he walked in. ¡°That was actually one of the Shadow Brothers who had a tough time.¡± Feng Bailing glanced at the beams of the room. That mysterious expert who had eliminated several people with a move, she hadn¡¯t even noticed him. If it weren¡¯t for him, Dugu Wu couldn¡¯t have arrived so timely. ¡°He is Feng Wan¡¯s brother; you will have a chance to meet him later. Don¡¯t worry, he is just responsible for your safety. He usually won¡¯t appear unless you are in danger.¡± Lu Yin chuckled. ¡°I have prescribed medicine for Old Madam Su; she is temporarily staying at the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± Su Wang is a man, Dugu Wu would never allow a foreign man to stay in the east wing. Mrs. Su and Dongfang Lianhua are of similar age and would suitably be housed in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Feng Bailing didn¡¯t expect that Dugu Wu also had a sensitive side. She inquired about Su Wang¡¯s condition. He was seriously injured, and although he concentrated on forming the Wenhua Earth Seal, doing so under those circumstances could likely lead to more bad than good. ¡°How is Su Wang¡¯s condition?¡± ¡°He is in very bad shape.¡± Lu Yin shook his head and sighed. ¡°Even you are powerless?¡± Feng Bailing frowned. ¡°I am just a doctor. Before the boy was brought to the Prince Mansion, he was hit by a heavy object which already injured his internal organs. He forcibly concentrated on forming the seal, further injuring his internal organs. I used the best medicine I could, but can only save his life. The rest is up to his fate.¡± Lu Yin only said half of what he knew. There wasn¡¯t entirely no way to save Su Wang; he couldn¡¯t, but Dugu Wu could. However, based on Lu Yin¡¯s understanding of Dugu Wu, the latter has never been a particularly nice person. He was also injured, using his own Gang Qi to heal Su Wang¡¯s injuries was nearly impossible. ¡°I will make a trip to the Prince Mansion.¡± Feng Bailing was worried about Su Wang¡¯s wounds. She didn¡¯t want her involvement to cause Su Wang to die young. ¡°Princess Feng, rest assured, Su Wang is already okay now, please focus on recovering.¡± A calm voice suddenly spoke up. ¡°Also, the Seventh Prince has arrived outside the mansion.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± Before Feng Bailing could finish, the voice disappeared. ¡°The sun rose from the west, I will head back to the Prince Mansion first.¡± Lu Yin, unable to sit still, left a few prescriptions for Feng Bailing and took his leave. As soon as Lu Yin left, Chun Liu entered, looking around with a cautious expression on her face. ¡°Gong Zhu, what are you up to?¡± Feng Bailing sensed the presence on the other person, this Chun Liu is a fake. ¡°There is a master hiding in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. It took me a great effort not to be discovered by him.¡± Gong Zhu is also a master of concealment, the opponent actually matched his level. ¡°I¡¯ll treat you first.¡± Feng Bailing didn¡¯t worry that Feng Zao would find out, as Feng Zao must have used some kind of telepathy earlier, and he was not in the room. After the acupuncture, Gong Zhu felt the Gang Qi in his body flow more smoothly. ¡°Your physique is really remarkable, after two or three more treatments, you should be able to recover fully.¡± As Feng Bailing withdrew the needles, he thought about why Dongfang Li suddenly visited. It must be because of Su Wang. She looked at Gong Zhu again and came up with an idea. After learning that Su Wang had been rescued by Feng Bailing, Dongfang Li rushed to the Princess¡¯ Mansion despite his own injuries. By the time he arrived, it was around the time to light the lamps. The servant of the Princess¡¯ Mansion saw Dongfang Li and hurriedly welcomed him. ¡°Where is your Miss?¡± After Dongfang Li spoke, the servant understood and led Dongfang Li inside. ¡°Please wait for a moment, your Highness. The miss will be here shortly.¡± After the servant walked away, Dongfang Li waited while drinking tea. He then heard footsteps; the medicine from Aunt Xue was very effective, Feng Xiangxue¡¯s leg had almost healed, and she was just thinking about visiting Dongfang Li when he, regardless of his injuries, condescended to visit her. She freshened up, her face shy, gracefully making her way. ¡°Why is it you?¡± Dongfang Li was displeased to see Feng Xiangxue. He was still irate over Su Wang¡¯s issue and really was not in the mood for intimate and romantic moments with Feng Xiangxue. The Wuji Seal didn¡¯t coalesce successfully, Dongfang Li felt that he no longer had the same fondness for Feng Xiangxue as before. ¡°Your Highness isn¡¯t here for me?¡± The smile froze on Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face. For the past few years, whenever Dongfang Li came to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, he always asked for Feng Xiangxue, so the servants naturally assumed he was here for her again. Besides, the Miss and Dongfang Li had just broken off their engagement, so it was impossible for the Seventh Prince to be looking for the Miss. ¡°I came for Feng Bailing.¡± Just as Dongfang Li was about to get up, Feng Xiangxue suddenly stumbled and fell right into Dongfang Li¡¯s arms. ¡°Your Highness, please don¡¯t make it difficult for Sister Ling. It wasn¡¯t she who had someone put my legs under a horse.¡± Feng Xiangxue looked as if she was about to cry, her face tear-streaked with pear blossoms, evoking a sense of pity. Her leg had just healed, and she hadn¡¯t yet had the chance to complain. Hearing this, Dongfang Li noticed the plaster under her skirt on her leg. It had been a few days, and under the lamp light, Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face looked smaller, making her appear all the more delicate and charming. ¡°Were you bullied by her again?¡± Dongfang Li felt a heat in his heart, filled with anger. ¡°It¡¯s not Sister Ling¡¯s fault. I¡¯m just an adopted daughter, living under someone else¡¯s roof; it¡¯s natural for her to look down on me. But she schemed against our grandmother to move back to the east wing, causing my mother to be scolded. I¡¯m just standing up for my mother who is, after all, her nanny and raised her. Compared to that, what¡¯s a broken leg?¡± Feng Xiangxue dabbed her tears. ¡°Feng Bailing truly is audacious, thinking that being honored as Commandery Princess means she can ignore the laws, unfilial and unkind, unworthy as a person. I will go teach her a lesson.¡± Dongfang Li stormed off towards the east wing. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face showed delight, but her eyes were chillingly cold. Dongfang Li headed straight for the east wing. The east wing, Dongfang Li was familiar with it. When he was a child, Dongfang Lianhua used to live here, he came to play and remembered that Feng Bailing lived on the south side. At this time, the south side door was tightly closed, pitch black inside, and moreover, no other rooms in the east wing were lit. Chapter 55 - 55 55 Where on Earth Is My Son ?Chapter 55: Chapter 55 Where on Earth Is My Son! Chapter 55: Chapter 55 Where on Earth Is My Son! Dongfang Li was furious and didn¡¯t even bring a guard with him, not caring about anything at this moment. He kicked the door open. ¡°Feng Bailing, come out here.¡± He rushed in. Bang¡ª The door slammed shut behind him. Dongfang Li was stunned. Inside the room was pitch black, so dark that he couldn¡¯t see his hand in front of his face. Dongfang Li¡¯s senses were sharp, and he could vaguely make out the interior of the room. It was empty except for some firewood piled up in a corner. This place wasn¡¯t the east wing, it looked more like a woodshed? Dongfang Li was baffled. Why had he ended up in the woodshed when he was sure he had gone to the east wing? Realizing something was off, Dongfang Li was about to turn around when he heard a rustling noise. The sound came from the pile of firewood not far away. Dongfang Li looked over and saw something crawling out of the firewood. A pale figure with hair covering her face was slowly emerging. ¡°Dongfang Li, return my life to me.¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s soul was shaken. The pale figure stood up, and when he looked at her feet, he saw them floating in mid-air. Beneath the scattered long hair, a ghastly pale dead face was revealed. There was a bloody hole in her chest, still oozing blood drip by drip. That face belonged to Xia Zhu, whom just a short while ago Dongfang Li had stabbed to death. He feared nothing in this world except ghosts and the even more terrifying Dugu Wu. ¡°You, you, you¡¯re already dead.¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s legs went weak with fear, he stumbled backwards several steps, trying to flee through the door. But the door behind him wouldn¡¯t budge no matter how much he pulled. A breath of cold air sprayed on the back of his neck. Xia Zhu¡¯s icy fingers touched his face, forcefully twisting his face back towards her. That bloody, bleeding face was just inches away. Dongfang Li hurriedly closed his eyes in terror. ¡°If you dare close your eyes, I¡¯ll kill you!¡± Xia Zhu choked his neck. Dongfang Li¡¯s body shook violently, and he quickly opened his eyes wide. ¡°Xia Zhu, I promise you, I will treat your family well.¡± Dongfang Li stuttered. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t even spare a newborn baby, how could you possibly spare my family? You deceive even ghosts, I will dig out your heart to see if it is black.¡± As Xia Zhu spoke, she blew a breath of cold air towards Dongfang Li. Dongfang Li¡¯s face turned blue. ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense, I didn¡¯t kill him. I just wanted to use him to call off the engagement, it¡¯s Feng Bailing who¡¯s the toad coveting swan flesh.¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s voice got weaker. Though he was cruel, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to harm a child. It was Ninth who said that child was an important bargaining chip for calling off the engagement, he could even be used to blackmail Dongfang Lianhua into handing over the secret decree. ¡°Where is the child?¡± Xia Zhu pressed closer. ¡°The child is lost! The servant who was carrying the child is dead too, I have no idea where he has gone!¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s speech was faltering. ¡°The person in the room that day, was it you?¡± Xia Zhu asked again. ¡°Not me...¡± Dongfang Li was both anxious and afraid, his old injuries acted up, his vision went dark, and he actually fainted from shock. Xia Zhu¡¯s mouth twitched in frustration, kicking Dongfang Li. ¡°How could you have ever been blind enough to fall for him?¡± The door opened, and Feng Bailing stood outside, she glanced at Dongfang Li. The child was gone. So it seems, the man who appeared at the Other Manor that day was not Dongfang Li. She had thought she could learn the whereabouts of the child from Dongfang Li, but it seems it was a letdown. A wave of disappointment welled up in Feng Bailing¡¯s heart. Seeing Feng Bailing downtrodden, Gong Zhu also felt out of sorts. ¡°Just kill him and be done with it.¡± Gong Zhu, feeling unsatisfied, stomped a few more times on the injured buttocks of Dongfang Li. ¡°He still has his uses.¡± Dongfang Li cannot die in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, otherwise Emperor Yongye would definitely punish the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Her wings yet not fully grown, she cannot yet leave Chu City. Moreover, she needed to lure out that mysterious person. After this incident, Feng Bailing became even more convinced that that person was the true mastermind behind Dongfang Li. But the evil deeds Dongfang Li had done, they must be repaid. At midnight, the Princess¡¯ Mansion was brightly lit. Feng Zhanlian, carrying lanterns with a group of house servants, searched through the mansion for Dongfang Li. Half an hour ago, Feng Xiangxue joyfully watched Dongfang Li go to settle the score with Feng Bailing, and she eagerly waited for Feng Bailing¡¯s embarrassed appearance, but after a quarter of an hour, half an hour, there was still no movement from the east wing. As deep night approached and Dongfang Li hadn¡¯t made a move, Feng Xiangxue grew restless. She went to the east wing to look for Dongfang Li. Feng Bailing was coaxing Feng Xiaoli to sleep. Seeing Feng Xiangxue, she was surprised and said she never saw Dongfang Li. Feng Xiangxue, of course, didn¡¯t believe her, but instead was scolded by Feng Bailing, who claimed that she and Dongfang Li had already annulled their marriage, and Dongfang Li, being an outsider, should not be able to casually enter the east wing. Seeing that Dongfang Li was indeed not in the east wing, Feng Xiangxue finally panicked. Feng Zhanlian, hearing that the Seventh Prince had gone missing in the mansion, was scared half to death. After searching for half an hour, they finally found Dongfang Li unconscious, and unresponsive, in the firewood shed. ¡°Your Highness, what happened to you?¡± Upon seeing Dongfang Li¡¯s condition, Feng Xiangxue rushed up to him, pinching acupoints, rubbing temples, working fervently. Dongfang Li was also gradually regaining consciousness. When he opened his eyes, his gaze was somewhat different from usual. Upon seeing Feng Xiangxue, his mind flashed with Xia Zhu¡¯s frightening ghostly face. The terrifying scene in the firewood shed appeared before his eyes. Stricken with extreme fear and anger, Dongfang Li hastily grabbed Feng Xiangxue¡¯s hair, flipped her over, and mounted her, punching and kicking like a madman. ¡°Ghost! You evil ghost! I will kill you, I will kill you!¡± ¡°Your Highness, what¡¯s happened to you? It¡¯s Xiangxue!¡± Feng Zhanlian was stunned, he and the house servants rushed over, trying to pull Dongfang Li off. But as Dongfang Li was trained in martial arts, he had astonishing strength. Feng Zhanlian got slapped several times, losing a front tooth in the process, and those house servants dared not hurt Dongfang Li. It wasn¡¯t until Aunt Xue heard the commotion and rushed over, that they found the firewood shed in total chaos. Seeing Feng Zhanlian lying to one side with a bruised face and groaning in pain. Feng Xiangxue was in even worse shape; her carefully maintained hair of over a decade had been torn out in large clumps, half-balded, and her nasal bone was broken. Seeing all this, Aunt Xue nearly passed out from shock. But Aunt Xue was after all Aunt Xue, she knew this matter was not simple, grinding her teeth, she swallowed her grievances, had people restrain Dongfang Li, then sent someone to notify Noble Princess Consort Xiao. With Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s arrival, there was no fear of lacking someone to take control. At this moment, Dongfang Li still had a bizarre look, babbling nonsensically, a complete contrast from his usual demeanor. Aunt Xue remembered the old Lady¡¯s encounter with a ghost and felt this matter was related to the east wing. But what Aunt Xue did not expect was that she didn¡¯t wait for Noble Princess Consort Xiao, but another person arrived instead. Chapter 56 - 56 56 The Ex-Lovers Visit ?Chapter 56: Chapter 56: The Ex-Lover¡¯s Visit Chapter 56: Chapter 56: The Ex-Lover¡¯s Visit Late at night, outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, a green-tasseled horse carriage came to a halt. A middle-aged man alighted from the carriage, his face pale and beardless, clad in a soy-sauce purple robe with a round neckline and narrow sleeves. He looked up at the Princess¡¯ Mansion and couldn¡¯t help feeling sentimental. The last time he visited the Princess¡¯ Mansion, he was just an ordinary eunuch, sent by the late Emperor to escort the Princess to her wedding. Over the years, he had risen through the ranks, while Princess Yong¡¯an had fallen ill. The news of his arrival had stirred the entire household of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Except for the elderly Lady who had already gone to bed and the Feng Zhanlian father-daughter duo who could not meet with others, Princess Dongfang Lianhua, along with Feng Bailing and her daughter, and the members of the second house, as well as Aunt Xue, all came out to welcome the visitor. This was a distinguished guest¡ªindeed it was Eunuch Chief Li Qing, one of Emperor Yongye¡¯s closest aides. ¡°This humble one pays his respects to the Princess, Commandery Princess.¡± Upon seeing Dongfang Lianhua, Li Qing quickly advanced in three steps to perform a bow, but Dongfang Lianhua promptly helped him up and asked him to dispense with the formalities. ¡°Eunuch Li, it¡¯s been several years.¡± Ever since Dongfang Lianhua had fallen ill, she hadn¡¯t seen Li Qing for several years. In her childhood at the palace, Li Qing had been very kind to her, almost like a brother. ¡°Princess, how is your illness?¡± Li Qing noticed that although Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s eyes sparkled vividly and she was still somewhat slender, she appeared quite healthy. ¡°I owe it to Ah Ling; she found some effective medicine for me. I¡¯m almost fully recovered and am preparing to bring Ah Ling to the palace in a few days to pay respects to the Emperor and the Empress Dowager.¡± Dongfang Lianhua led Li Qing to the seat, her eyes brimming with joy. ¡°The Commandery Princess¡¯s medicine is indeed effective. I won¡¯t lie to everyone; the reason I am here tonight is also to seek out a remedy.¡± After using the herbal medicine recommended by Feng Bailing, Li Qing¡¯s sty had subsided within a few days, and he had come to believe that Feng Bailing truly possessed some medical knowledge. ¡°Chief Li, Ah Ling¡¯s medical knowledge is indeed remarkable. Previously, when the old Lady lost consciousness, it was she who revived her, far more effective than the former palace Physician Yang.¡± Aunt Xue hastily chimed in with agreement. ¡°Aunt is jesting. I dare not compare myself to the Imperial Physician.¡± Feng Bailing sensed something amiss with Aunt Xue offering her eager compliments for no reason. A chief eunuch like Li Qing would not visit so late at night without serious business. If his visit was indeed to seek a remedy... ¡°Commandery Princess, you are too modest. My eye problem, which none of the Imperial Physicians could fix, has been troubling me. There¡¯s an elder I know who has recently contracted a strange illness. She¡¯s been suffering from daily abdominal pain and headaches, continuous vomiting, and diarrhea for many days now, and has tried many remedies to no avail. Remembering the Commandery Princess¡¯s spiritual medicine, I came to ask for a prescription.¡± Li Qing was direct in stating his purpose. ¡°Chief Li, you might as well take me to see this elder.¡± Feng Bailing had an inkling of who the other party might be. ¡°It¡¯s late at night; I¡¯m afraid it would inconvenience the Commandery Princess. I¡¯m only here to ask for a prescription. If the remedy proves effective, we can always visit later.¡± Chief Li shook his head. This elder must hold a noble status. Feng Bailing was not a doctor, and according to the laws, she was not permitted to prescribe medication rashly. Although the Crown Princess Consort had mentioned her before to the Empress, the idea was immediately dismissed. It was Li Qing who, seeing the suffering of that person in the palace, took the risk to come and request a remedy¡ªan act still kept secret even from the Emperor himself. Li Qing smiled at Feng Bailing, who was in a quandary. This medicine, if used well, might not necessarily be rewarded. But if used improperly, it could constitute a grave crime. Moreover, having not seen the patient for herself, administering medication directly was something even an Imperial Physician would not dare to do. To give the medicine, or not to give it? ¡°Chief Li, please trouble yourself to tell me everything that the elder has eaten and drunk these past few days. Also, inform me of any medicine she takes,¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er mused for a moment before deciding to prescribe the medicine. Chief Li repeated everything, and Nalan Yan¡¯er personally went to the storeroom, secretly crushed a few pills she had taken from the emergency box, and mixed them into the medicinal herbs before handing them back to Chief Li. Upon receiving the medicine, Li Qing couldn¡¯t help but be overjoyed. For some reason, he was very confident in Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s medicine; it would surely cure the Empress Dowager. ¡°Life and death ignorant fools, really thinking that just because they cured Dongfang Lianhua, they have superior medical skills. The Empress Dowager¡¯s illness is very serious; if it weren¡¯t life-threatening, why would Chief Li sneak out to search for medicine?¡± Aunt Xue watched from the side, secretly delighted, Nalan Yan¡¯er was going to fall into trouble this time. But thinking about her beloved daughter inside the room, beaten up, and Feng Zhanlian, a pang of pain went through her heart. It should be Nalan Yan¡¯er who was beaten! ¡°Much obliged to the Princess and Commandery Princess.¡± Chief Li mounted the horse carriage. Watching the carriage leave, Dongfang Lianhua rubbed her temple, showing a worried expression. ¡°Ah Ling, are you confident?¡± She initially wanted to stop Nalan Yan¡¯er from prescribing the medicine, but then she realized that the patient was no ordinary person and was very likely the Empress or the Empress Dowager. Ah Ling¡¯s medicine was useful, but she was young, and the medicine bought from a traveling merchant might not cure all diseases. ¡°Mother, the elder¡¯s illness is...¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er had just begun speaking when she suddenly felt a premonition, hearing the sound of a carriage wheel approaching. On the street, another horse carriage was coming. Different from Li Qing¡¯s carriage, it was a vermilion-wheeled carriage with golden curtains and a nanmu body, with two glass palace lanterns hanging from it; even in the night, the vehicle moved at an unhurried pace. Under the warm yellow light, a beautiful woman in a white fox fur court dress alighted from the carriage with the help of a nanny. Even in a heavy coat, Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s slender figure was indistinct. Pinned to her hair was a plum blossom hairpin, her delicate nose tinged slightly red from the cold, and with the mark of a dark indigo between her eyebrows, Nalan Yan¡¯er looked even more captivating. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, you must seek justice for Xiangxue. She was such a fine girl...¡± Seeing Nalan Yan¡¯er, Aunt Xue was both shocked and overjoyed, and tears streamed down her face. She sent someone to ask for Noble Princess Consort Xiao but Nalan Yan¡¯er arrived instead. With Nalan Yan¡¯er here, how could they worry about not dealing with Nalan Yan¡¯er? Dongfang Lianhua was also somewhat surprised, while Nalan Yan¡¯er only glanced sideways, exchanging a glance with Nalan Yan¡¯er in the air, both smiling and nodding slightly. ¡°Noble Princess Consort Xiao learned of the Seventh Prince¡¯s terrible disaster. She resides in the palace and, with the night deepening, it was not convenient for her to leave. She had no choice but to entrust me to fetch the person. Princess, Commandery Princess, please forgive us.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er was a unique presence in the harem. The Empress Dowager, the Empress, and various Noble Princess Consorts all adored her, and even the usually critical Noble Princess Consort Xiao was no exception. Nalan Yan¡¯er interrupted Aunt Xue, who and her daughter were too impatient. They could easily ruin her careful plans. ¡°The Seventh Prince is behaving abnormally and has been locked up in the firewood room. Perhaps it would be better for Crown Princess Consort to be cautious and have the house servants bind him to avoid injuring yourself.¡± Dongfang Lianhua also heard about what happened and was both alarmed and angry, realizing even more that if she did not become more vigilant, tonight it was the Seventh Prince causing trouble, and it could be other Princes and Princesses the next night. ¡°The Princess need not worry. I have my own methods,¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er said with a smile. Chapter 57 - 57 57 Hypnotism ?Chapter 57: Chapter 57 Hypnotism Chapter 57: Chapter 57 Hypnotism In the firewood shed, a series of thuds and crackles echoed. The furious roaring of Dongfang Li was incessant. He had been causing havoc for a full hour, and no one at the Princess¡¯ Mansion dared to approach. ¡°Open the door.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er slightly nodded to the house servant beside her. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, you can¡¯t go in.¡± Aunt Xue hurriedly stopped her. Dongfang Li¡¯s condition, as if possessed by a demon, might harm the Crown Princess Consort if she entered. Nalan Yan¡¯er just smiled faintly, causing Aunt Xue to be at a loss for words and hurriedly open the door of the firewood shed. As soon as the door was opened, a dark figure rushed out. Dongfang Li was enveloped in a malicious aura, and the ropes on his body had already been broken by him. His eyes were blood-red, his hair messy, his exquisite brocade robe was torn and tattered, his handsome face was twisted grotesquely. He saw a figure swaying before him and lunged at it. ¡°Be careful, Crown Princess Consort.¡± The nannies and maids around her were thrown into chaos. However, Nalan Yan¡¯er gracefully moved her lotus steps forward, taking a step closer. Her lips moved lightly, and she softly uttered three words. ¡°Dong-fang-Li.¡± Those three words, though light, acted like an immobilization spell on Dongfang Li, making him suddenly stand still. The blood-red in his eyes faded slightly. He seemed to recognize Nalan Yan¡¯er, and a clear trace of terror flashed in his eyes, as if the beautiful lady before him was some horrifying skeleton or ghost. That trace of terror caught Feng Bailing¡¯s eye. Those around, witnessing this, exclaimed at the marvel. Indeed, it¡¯s the Crown Princess Consort, whose childbirth was marked by the arrival of the Dragon and Phoenix Auspicious Phenomenon, and now merely with her words, she stopped Dongfang Li. She was truly like a deity. Just as everyone sighed with relief, a faint, strange light flickered in the sparkling eyes of Nalan Yan¡¯er. The Wenhua Fire Seal between her eyebrows suddenly brightened. Dongfang Li, who had been standing still, changed his expression again. He bellowed loudly and suddenly changed direction, pouncing towards Feng Bailing behind Nalan Yan¡¯er. His movements were extremely fast, like an arrow that had been tightly strung, and he swung his fist at Feng Bailing. The force of the fist seemed to carry the power of wind and thunder, whistling through the air, and if it connected, not just Feng Bailing, but even a piece of gold or stone might be blasted into fragments. A gasp rose from the crowd. A ghostly shadow quickly moved towards the direction of the firewood shed. At the critical moment, Feng Bailing did not retreat in fear; she slightly shifted her feet and extended her palms, gently grabbing Dongfang Li¡¯s wrist as her body, as soft as mud mixed with water, brushed past Dongfang Li¡¯s body. With a mere flick, she diverted the force of Dongfang Li¡¯s punch. She then clasped the web between his thumb and index finger and the acupoint behind his shoulder, causing Dongfang Li to feel a surge of numbness and weakness in his arm, forcing him to kneel on one knee. ¡°Nalan Yan¡¯er!¡± Feng Bailing twisted Dongfang Li¡¯s hands behind his back, her voice resonating with a powerful shout. Although the voice was light, it carried weight, and with just that phrase, Nalan Yan¡¯er trembled as if struck by thunder. The light from the Wenhua Fire Seal on her forehead receded. A look of disbelief flashed in Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s beautiful eyes. Feng Bailing, did she break her own Blessing Technique? Why would she know how to break the Blessing Technique? Her qi and blood surged, Nalan Yan¡¯er only felt a sweet and fishy taste in her throat. The interruption of the Blessing Technique caused her to suffer a backlash. Turning to Dongfang Li, in the instant the light from the Wenhua Seal faded, he felt something in his muddled brain snap. The people and objects in front of him gradually became clear. His arm might be broken and his butt felt like it had been trampled by a horse, so painful. ¡°Which bastard... Feng Bailing, it¡¯s you again!¡± Dongfang Li was so angry that his nose was crooked; he was actually pressed to the ground by Feng Bailing? If anyone was to be pressing, it should be him pressing her. He struggled fiercely, but how could he not break free from Feng Bailing¡¯s thin arms that were like reed sticks? ¡°Ah Ling, let go of the Seventh Prince quickly, the guest comes first.¡± Just now, Aunt Xue started to feel sorry for her chosen son-in-law. ¡°Dongfang Li is unreasonable, trespassing into the Princess¡¯ Mansion and even injuring the people here, a prince commits the same crime as a commoner.¡± Under her veil, Feng Bailing¡¯s face was covered in frost. Dongfang Li shuddered, his reaction still somewhat slow, first recalling that he had come to seek an explanation from Feng Bailing. ¡°You stop slandering me; it¡¯s clearly you who let the horse go wild, breaking Xiangxue¡¯s foot! I was merely standing up for her.¡± ¡°Seventh Prince, you must have forgotten who it was that battered my second sister until she looked like a ghost.¡± Feng Bailing blinked her eyes; a moment ago, her icy pupils began showing ripples. ¡°Pity my second sister, as lovely as a flower, beaten beyond recognition, how can she marry now?¡± She choked up, wiping the corners of her eyes that had no tears. It was only then that Dongfang Li came to realize and remembered his earlier actions. He seemed to have hit several people. But he couldn¡¯t remember any of it. Dongfang Lianhua sighed deeply, while Aunt Xue sobbed and wailed. ¡°Little Seventh, you¡¯ve caused a great disaster.¡± Surrounded and cried over by a group of women, Nalan Yan¡¯er forced a smile. ¡°I... I must have encountered a ghost. Imperial Sister-in-law, you don¡¯t know, there¡¯s a female ghost in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, fiercer than anyone; I nearly got strangled to death.¡± Dongfang Li was at a loss for words, his face filled with anguish. Treating an elder sister as a mother, Dongfang Li always had to be very careful around Nalan Yan¡¯er. It¡¯s the same with the ninth brother, why did they have to look for the Imperial Sister-in-law? ¡°Shut up, this matter needs an explanation from the Princess¡¯ Mansion, you go back to the Qian Residence. I will enter the palace tomorrow morning to beg the Father Emperor for your marriage, to welcome Feng Family¡¯s second Miss as your bride.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er consoled several people from the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Upon hearing this, Aunt Xue burst out laughing. Feng Bailing¡¯s heart sneered coldly; Aunt Xue really thought that without the backing of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Xiangxue could become the legitimate wife of Dongfang Li? If Noble Princess Consort Xiao knew her son was coerced, she would never let Feng Xiangxue have an easy time. ¡°Propose marriage, I had no intention of marrying Feng Xiangxue.¡± Dongfang Li became anxious. He had a slight affection for Feng Xiangxue before, because after the death of Dongfang Lianhua, Feng Xiangxue and her father were somewhat useful. Now that Dongfang Lianhua was alive, if he married a foster daughter of a political ally as his Princess Consort, wouldn¡¯t he be ridiculed by other princes? ¡°Nonsense! Marriage is no child¡¯s play; you have ruined the face of Ms. Feng, you have no choice but to marry.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er spoke and consoled Aunt Xue with a few more words before leaving the Princess¡¯ Mansion with Dongfang Li, who looked like a defeated cock. Just out of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Nalan Yan¡¯er felt a sweetness in her throat and spat out a mouthful of blood. Chapter 58 - 58 58 Swearing to Protect the Mother and ?Chapter 58: Chapter 58: Swearing to Protect the Mother and Daughter Chapter 58: Chapter 58: Swearing to Protect the Mother and Daughter Nalan Yan¡¯er left, and peace was restored within the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Feng Bailing pushed the door and entered. ¡°The horse runs, the horse stops.¡± The childish voice accompanied by giggling laughter. Barefooted and chubby, Feng Xiaoli rode on Gong Zhu¡¯s back, her two little buns untied, waving a bald little broom in her hand, charging around the room with bold vigor. Feng Bailing was dumbfounded, a faint smile emerging in her eyes. The scene just now was extremely perilous; although the Princess¡¯ Mansion was her home, Feng Bailing treaded on thin ice every day. Only upon seeing her daughter¡¯s innocent smile could she briefly forget all the unhappiness. ¡°Her Majesty~ Xiaoli wants to hear your story.¡± Seeing Feng Bailing, Feng Xiaoli jumped down from the ¡°horse¡± and pitter-pattered to Feng Bailing¡¯s side. Gong Zhu was panting heavily, with his tongue out, collapsed on the ground. This child-care was no job for humans; he would rather kill a hundred people! ¡°Your daughter is strangely troublesome. My lord almost got killed by her. I won¡¯t play with her anymore; nothing but bad luck follows me. Just now, I tripped while walking and scalded my tongue with tea, and even got my head caught in a door.¡± Gong Zhu was visibly shaken. ¡°Xiaoli?¡± Ever since Feng Xiaoli was ill last time, Feng Bailing has been particularly attentive to this little mouth of hers. Xiaoli drooped her little head, looking pitiful. Such a look would soften anyone¡¯s heart. Gong Zhu internally rolled his eyes, thinking to himself that she was both pitiful and mischievous. ¡°If you don¡¯t behave next time, I won¡¯t tell you any stories.¡± Feng Bailing washed Feng Xiaoli and tucked her into bed. The little one peeked out half of her face, blinking her eyes, waiting for Feng Bailing to tell a bedtime story. ¡°Continue the story of Huaguo Mountain...¡± Feng Bailing gently patted Feng Xiaoli, and began the tale of Journey to the West. Feng Xiaoli was well-behaved in front of others, but mischievously quirky behind the curtains, particularly energetic every day, especially before sleep; only story-telling by Feng Bailing could put her to sleep. Her sweet voice while telling stories contrasted greatly with her ferocious daily demeanor. Gong Zhu listened alongside and was unconsciously mesmerized. ¡°Ah, what happened after the Monkey King wreaked havoc in the heavenly palace?¡± While Gong Zhu was still longing for more, Feng Xiaoli had already fallen asleep. But Gong Zhu was eagerly itching; he had never heard of such tales from Feng Bailing before. ¡°We¡¯ll continue next time.¡± Feng Bailing sipped some tea. Gong Zhu pouted, while at this moment Feng Bailing removed her veil. Under the lamplight, the tea cup in Gong Zhu¡¯s hand clattered to the ground. ¡°Is your Pure Yang poison cured?¡± The lady before him had black hair like lacquer, her face as smooth and radiant as Han White Jade, flawless. Her beautiful eyes glittered, every movement carried an indescribable beauty. Was this still the ugly monster, Feng Bailing, that he knew? As if he had drunk several pounds of strong liquor, Gong Zhu¡¯s face blushed, his ears turned red, and even the Wuji Wood Seal on his forehead slightly reddened and was visible as he stumbled over his words. ¡°As you said, temporarily suppressed in the Dantian. Just now, Nalan Yan¡¯er took control of Dongfang Li, trying to attack me.¡± Feng Bailing detailed the actions of Nalan Yan¡¯er. ¡°It must be a Blessing Technique. Unexpectedly, the renowned Princess Consort of Great Chu would know the Blessing Technique.¡± Gong Zhu recounted this, though there were no details in the Xingxiu Sect¡¯s information network. It seemed the network of Xingxiu Sect was not comprehensive enough. Gong Zhu briefly explained the Blessing Technique to Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing understood that this so-called Blessing Technique was akin to modern medical hypnotism. ¡°Dongfang Li was poisoned by the Mandala Poison of my Xingxiu Sect, disorienting him, and Nalan Yan¡¯er took advantage to counteract Dongfang Li to attack you. Do you have a feud with this Princess Consort?¡± Gong Zhu learned that Nalan Yan¡¯er had a good reputation, serving as a Princess Consort in Great Chu. ¡°I¡¯m to marry her former love.¡± As Feng Bailing had studied medicine, including hypnotism, she recognized that Dongfang Li¡¯s condition looked like he was hypnotized. She screamed Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s name to scare her and break the hypnotic state. ¡°Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince? You still dare to like him...¡± Gong Zhu glanced at Feng Bailing¡¯s beautiful profile that surpassed the beauty of spring flowers and autumn moons, feeling somewhat bitter in his heart. ¡°He is the most suitable person for me.¡± At least for within a year. Feng Bailing recalled the bizarre Purple Gold Dragon and the golden chain with a crack. Gong Zhu tightened his lips, feeling an indescribable sense of defeat. Gong Zhu had long known that the Princess¡¯ Mansion was enveloped in deep gloom. As a member of the Royal Family of Great Chu, if Feng Bailing wanted to protect herself with such stunning beauty, she would need a powerful man. And he, needed to become even more powerful to protect both Feng Bailing and Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Those endowed with the Wenhua Seal, skilled in beguiling the hearts of people, as long as you have a firm mind, avoid eye contact, you can evade the Blessing Technique. I¡¯ll come to see you next month.¡± After speaking, Gong Zhu¡¯s figure flashed, and he left the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, that patch of blood on the ground was like dark night¡¯s blooming red plum, strikingly poignant. The horse carriage of the Crown Prince Mansion was spacious and steady. Nalan Yan¡¯er boarded the carriage, wiping the blood from the corner of her mouth, her snowy skin tinged with a faint blush. Having been injured by Feng Bailing in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Ah Wu would certainly reprimand Feng Bailing. Tomorrow, she would go to the palace, and upon meeting Ah Wu, she would surely report against Feng Bailing, a calculating flash crossing Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes. Chapter 59 - 59 59 The Heart is Reluctant but the Body is ?Chapter 59: Chapter 59: The Heart is Reluctant, but the Body is Honest Chapter 59: Chapter 59: The Heart is Reluctant, but the Body is Honest Early in the morning, in the courtyard of the east wing, plum blossoms had already fallen completely, and the peach trees had bloomed pink and white buds overnight. Under the shade of the trees, one could see an agile figure. Feng Bailing circulated her energy, practicing her Coiling Silk Grasping Hand until she felt a warm current converging at her Dantian before she stopped. At breakfast, the table was set with several delectable seasonal dishes. There were soft and palatable red bean paste buns, juicy meat buns, golden and crispy fried dough sticks, steaming fresh soy milk, and sweet, sticky rice porridge¡ªall meticulously prepared for Feng Bailing. Both she and Feng Xiaoli had always had good appetites, and now that Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s blood pressure had stabilized, she could also eat a bit. During the meal, Mrs. Su was invited to join them. She had come the day before, taken the medicine given by Feng Bailing, and with her fever abating, was now able to get out of bed. Children eat quickly, and Feng Xiaoli was already full; just then, Chun Liu mentioned that a distant relative with children had come to visit, announcing that a child in their family had been accepted as a student at the Imperial Academy and had come to share the good news. The visitors were at the gatehouse, and upon hearing this, Feng Xiaoli clamored to play with her little friends. Feng Bailing then asked Chun Liu to take ten silvers and invite the guests to the side hall for tea. ¡°Lady Su, before her marriage, also came from a scholarly family with refined speech; I talked with her last night for a long time and found her quite congenial.¡± Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s usual demeanor was cold and somewhat solitary, but she hit it off with Lady Su right away. When Mrs. Su had just arrived at the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she was somewhat anxious, worried about the many rules of the Royal Family. But after getting to know Dongfang Lianhua, she felt that both mother and daughter were very approachable. ¡°The Princess is too kind. I am but a simple woman without great insight. It is the Commandery Princess with her exceptional medical skill and kind heart. If not for her, this time ... my son and I...¡± Mrs. Su had only spoken half of her sentence when she saw Feng Bailing across from her subtly shaking her head. She quickly stopped. Feng Bailing was quite satisfied with Mrs. Su¡¯s perceptiveness. ¡°The Commandery Princess saved me, and I have nothing with which to repay her. I am willing to work like an ox or a horse in her service.¡± Mrs. Su got up and knelt down. She had led a life of wandering and experienced all the hardships of human life, with only her son Su Wang. When Su Wang was being pursued and she couldn¡¯t help him, she did not want to become a burden to her son. That day, having witnessed Feng Bailing¡¯s ¡°poison¡± and the mysterious and ghostly figure, she knew they had encountered their benefactors. A fine bird chooses a tree to nest in, and she did not want to be a burden to Su Wang¡ªshe only hoped to have a roof over their heads in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Upon hearing this, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s face lit up with joy. Although she had Nanny Gui at her side, Nanny Gui was old and not as nimble as before; recently, she had been remarking that she wanted to return home to take care of her grandchildren. Mrs. Su was in good health, and having been around, if she was willing to serve her, Dongfang Lianhua could not be more pleased. Feng Bailing had some admiration for Mrs. Su, and she was intending to replace the staff of the east wing. She readily agreed to Mrs. Su¡¯s request. Mrs. Su also knew her place well, and after standing up, she stood by Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s side, serving dishes and pouring tea, without speaking further. ¡°Mom, remember to take your medicine after meals.¡± Feng Bailing remembered she had to hand over the medication to Mrs. Su for Nanny Gui and casually took out the emergency kit. ¡°Sister, you must help me this time.¡± Aunt Xue walked in quickly, her eyes lighting up the moment she saw Feng Bailing with the emergency kit. Feng Bailing frowned and glanced at the door, where Nanny Gui, with her bound feet, had just followed in. ¡°Princess, Commandery Princess, when I went to change the tea, Aunt Xue came in.¡± ¡°Ah Ling, your emergency kit is small and exquisitely made; how come I¡¯ve never seen you use it before?¡± Aunt Xue feigned surprise, trying to sneak a peek at Feng Bailing¡¯s emergency kit. Feng Bailing closed the emergency kit before Aunt Xue could see anything clearly; Feng Bailing never had that kit before. ¡°Aunt Xue, even though we¡¯re all family here, as a concubine, you should still abide by basic etiquette. The Princess has only just recovered from a serious illness, and your rash intrusion could startle the Matriarch, bringing disaster upon yourself.¡± Mrs. Su said, glancing displeased at Dongfang Lianhua. Last night, during their long conversation, Dongfang Lianhua had also informed her about some situations in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Aunt Xue had never been confronted like this in the Princess¡¯ Mansion before; she wanted to explode, but upon recalling her purpose for coming, she swallowed her words back down. ¡°She is a new nanny I¡¯ve hired to take care of the matters in the east wing from now on.¡± Dongfang Lianhua took a sip of her tea. The tea leaves floating on the surface of the tea in the cup seemed ready to fall, kept sinking. ¡°Big Sister... Princess, I¡¯m here to ask for your help with Xiangxue; the poor child had nightmares all night. When she looked at herself in the mirror, she smashed several of them. With her in this state, how can she face anyone? She¡¯s your daughter too, I beg you to take me to the Imperial Palace to plead with the Emperor and have the Seventh Prince marry her.¡± Aunt Xue began to wipe away her tears. With no news from the Crown Princess Consort yet, she was eager to have Dongfang Lianhua accompany her to the palace. Before, Dongfang Lianhua would have agreed without hesitation. ¡°You are neither bearing an imperial decree nor a member of the Royal Family; it¡¯s illogical for you to enter the palace. If Ah Ling and I encounter Noble Princess Consort Xiao in the palace, we will report the situation.¡± Dongfang Lianhua gave Aunt Xue a soft rebuff. Nalan Yan¡¯er, having a heart as delicate as seven orifices¡¯ exquisite heart, knew that the marriage affair involving Dongfang Li had to be first discussed with Noble Princess Consort Xiao, who, being so opportunistic, would likely not agree. But since Feng Xiangxue was an adopted daughter of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, if she was not given proper status, it would be the Princess¡¯ Mansion that would suffer ridicule, and it could even affect Ah Ling and Luochen¡¯s reputation in the future. Dongfang Lianhua had also intended to visit the Empress Dowager once she felt slightly better, so she did not make any excuses. After the meal, the Princess¡¯ Mansion prepared a horse carriage and headed towards the Imperial Palace. The carriage stopped outside the Imperial Palace, and Dongfang Lianhua was assisted out of the carriage by Nanny Gui; as soon as Feng Bailing stepped out of the carriage, she saw another carriage stopped at the palace gates. The horses pulling the carriage were strong and mighty, their black coats gleaming; it was none other than Dugu Wu¡¯s carriage. From inside the carriage, a hand reached out. The man¡¯s hand was well-defined, slender yet powerful, wearing a tourmaline ring. He first gave Dongfang Lianhua a slight nod as a greeting, then his gaze shifted to Feng Bailing. She was not dressed in the garish reds of the Spring Banquet; due to the onset of spring, she was wearing less today. She was in a cherry blossom pink trailing dress, with a subtly patterned waistbelt, and under her Seven Treasures Coral Hairpin, a matching colored scarf hid her flawed complexion, yet still highlighted her delicate eyebrows and enticing, fox-like eyes which seemed to speak at any moment. Dressed up like a showy peacock to enter the palace! Indecent! Dugu Wu¡¯s look could freeze someone solid in an instant. ¡°Princess Shengping, help me down from the carriage.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s voice was low, with a hint of command. Inside, Feng Bailing was resistant, but her body was obedient. She picked up the hem of her dress and ran, quickly darting over to Dugu Wu¡¯s side, gazing at him with almost worshipful eyes, as though handling an invaluable and rare antique; she clasped his hand with both of hers, not forgetting to squeeze a few extra times. Chapter 60 - 60 60 Feng Bailings Grand Gift ?Chapter 60: Chapter 60: Feng Bailing¡¯s Grand Gift Chapter 60: Chapter 60: Feng Bailing¡¯s Grand Gift Upon witnessing this scene, Feng Wan was utterly dumbfounded. The Commandery Princess¡¯ movements were frivolous, just like those of a patron in a brothel, casually pinching a girl¡¯s hand while enjoying a song. She treated the Prince like a brothel courtesan! ¡°Prince, you must push her hand away quickly! Please don¡¯t be polite!¡± Feng Wan silently screamed on the inside. Dugu Wu stared at Feng Bailing¡¯s hand; the hand was small and soft, akin to a cat¡¯s paw, playfully scratching about. ¡°Why are you staring at me? I have a gift for you.¡± Feng Bailing noticed that Dugu Wu had prepared a wheelchair, but she thought that using a wheelchair would not be beneficial to his recovery, so she had prepared an additional, special gift for him. Saying so, she returned to the horse carriage and brought down a pair of crutches. ¡°These are crutches, they can even extend¡ªvery portable. I give them to you.¡± The crutches Feng Bailing offered to Dugu Wu were made of titanium alloy. She had indeed paid five thousand taels for an emergency kit, but considering that helping Dugu Wu recover sooner would also allow her to extricate herself earlier, she still decided to part with this significant sum. Dugu Wu was a bit surprised; Great Chu did have crutches, but they were made of wood or bamboo, which were not very sturdy. The pair of crutches given by Feng Bailing seemed to be made of metal, yet they were incredibly lightweight. Dugu Wu tried them and found them extremely flexible, lovingly unable to let them go for a while. ¡°Barely passable.¡± Dugu Wu murmured in a low voice, using the crutches to walk forward, which made moving around much more convenient. ¡°Has Prince Wu also come to visit the Empress Dowager?¡± Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s impression of Dugu Wu was growing fonder and fonder, seeing the ¡°interaction¡± between the two as a young couple cultivating their affection. Prince Shun, the father of Dugu Wu, was the actual son of the Empress Dowager, while Emperor Yongye was also her son in name, though he was fostered by her. Thus, Dugu Wu was the Empress Dowager¡¯s legitimate grandson. Prince Shun had passed away at a young age, and before Dugu Wu could officially recognize his lineage and return to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, he had lived with the Empress Dowager for a couple of years. It was also due to the Empress Dowager¡¯s strong support that he could successfully claim his heritage. His relationship with the Empress Dowager was closer than that of the other Princes. ¡°The Empress Dowager has been unwell lately, so I came to see her.¡± Dugu Wu had just seen Dongfang Lianhua a few days earlier and felt that she was somewhat different from when she was in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, seemingly younger. Unlike regular people who cared about outward appearances, he didn¡¯t inquire further. After entering spring, the palace was blooming with flowers, and the growth of plants and trees was lush, especially inside Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s Qingluan Palace, where peach and apricot trees were particularly thriving. With a smash, a fine cloisonne? vase was shattered to pieces by Noble Princess Consort Xiao. ¡°Pah! A foster daughter wishing to become the legitimate First Princess Consort of my royal son? The Princess¡¯ Mansion can keep dreaming its grand dreams.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s beautiful face contorted with rage. Nalan Yan¡¯er sat beside her. She wore light makeup today and looked a little pale, her brows showing a hint of frailty, reminiscent of a sickly Xi Shi, eliciting sympathy from others. Last night, when she received the news about the Seventh Prince, Noble Princess Consort Xiao wished she could have grown wings immediately to fly to the Princess¡¯ Mansion and tear apart the shameless mother-daughter pair of the Feng Family. The Empress Dowager had been seriously ill recently, leaving the physicians at a loss, which troubled the Emperor. She did not dare to bother him at this critical time, so she had no choice but to send Nalan Yan¡¯er. Little did she know it would end this way. ¡°Your Majesty, the Seventh Prince was indeed presumptuous this time. I don¡¯t know what methods Feng Bailing employed to leave Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face utterly disfigured. If he does not marry Feng Xiangxue, I fear the people of the Princess¡¯ Mansion will not let the matter rest.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er sighed. She had earlier suspected that Dongfang Li had been poisoned, but after he returned to the Qian Residence for examination, not a trace of poison was found. Where would she know that the poison administered to Dongfang Li was the unique poison of the Evil of Constellation, which had an effect lasting only one hour. After that time, it would vanish without a trace, and even the Imperial Physicians would not be able to detect it. ¡°Reporting to Noble Princess Consort Xiao, Princess Yong¡¯an and Princess Shengping have entered the Imperial Palace and are heading towards Ciyuan Palace.¡± A young palace maid came forward to report. ¡°How cunning of Dongfang Lianhua, daring to come to the Imperial Palace to stir up trouble. A princess out of favor, and she still wants to bully us, mother and son?¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao was furious. ¡°Your Majesty, Prince Wu is accompanying them.¡± The maid¡¯s words immediately caused Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s brows to furrow. Shouldn¡¯t Ah Wu be seeking Feng Bailing to settle scores? Why would he accompany Feng Bailing to the palace? ¡°Your Majesty, do not be angry. Although Feng Xiangxue is just an adopted daughter, she is talented in all six arts and is known as a gifted woman in the Yuxiu Academy, much more outstanding than Feng Bailing. If Your Majesty feels that she is not of high enough status for your brother, you could make her a concubine, and if you fancy a noble girl for him in the future, it will not be too late to establish her as the First Princess Consort.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er spoke softly and gently. Noble Princess Consort Xiao found these words pleasing to the ear. Dongfang Li had been causing quite a fuss lately, and last time he even managed to offend Emperor Yongye in the Imperial Palace. She had warned him not to get involved with Feng Bailing anymore. But he wouldn¡¯t listen. Perhaps finding a woman to keep him in line would be a good method. Moreover, Dongfang Li had always been quite good to Feng Xiangxue; accepting her as a concubine was something he could agree to. ¡°Yan¡¯er, you are wise. I surely cannot allow the Princess¡¯ Mansion to make accusations first. I will go with you to Ciyuan Palace now.¡± Inside Ciyuan Palace, with the Empress Dowager suffering unbearable abdominal pain and no disease being identified, Emperor Yongye¡¯s face was dark with anger. A group of Imperial Physicians knelt on the ground, trembling in fear. ¡°A bunch of useless people! The Empress Dowager has been sick for several days, and you have come up with no solutions. What use is it for me to keep you around? Drag them out and behead them!¡± Though not the Empress Dowager¡¯s biological son, Emperor Yongye had been raised by her hand. His birth mother was of lowly status, so it was only because of the Empress Dowager¡¯s patronage, along with Prince Shun¡¯s abdication that he was able to ascend to the throne. After the death of Prince Shun, Emperor Yongye always treated the Empress Dowager as his birth mother, with great filial piety. Since the Spring Banquet, the Empress Dowager had been unwell, first with minor abdominal pain, then confined to bed and unable to get up. It had already been several days, and the Imperial Hospital had prescribed one medicine after another, all without effect. ¡°Your Majesty, this servant has a prescription to present to Your Majesty.¡± Li Qing saw the Emperor in urgent need and, after hesitating for a moment, stepped forward to report. ¡°You have a method, why didn¡¯t you mention it sooner? Bring it out and let the Imperial Hospital take a look.¡± Emperor Yongye was overjoyed, and Li Qing immediately took out the medicine given by Feng Bailing. The Imperial Physicians looked at it and shook their heads. ¡°Reporting to Mr. Li, the ingredients in this medicine are all meant to clear heat and detoxify. With the Empress Dowager¡¯s abdominal pain, taking this medicine will do no good.¡± ¡°Your Majesty, the medical team has run out of ideas, and the Empress Dowager is in agony. This old servant sought this medicine. The doctor said that after three days of taking this medicine, the Empress Dowager will recover.¡± Li Qing had just finished speaking when a cold laugh was heard. Noble Princess Consort Xiao, dressed to the nines, walked in with Nalan Yan¡¯er. ¡°Chief Li, the doctor you¡¯re referring to wouldn¡¯t happen to be Feng Bailing, would it? This princess heard that you visited the Princess¡¯ Mansion last night. How bold of you, Li Qing; what kind of person is Feng Bailing? Barely literate, and you dare to have the Empress Dowager take her medicine!¡± Chapter 61 - 61 61 Feng Bailings Medicine (Part 1) ?Chapter 61: Chapter 61: Feng Bailing¡¯s Medicine (Part 1) Chapter 61: Chapter 61: Feng Bailing¡¯s Medicine (Part 1) It was Feng Bailing who prescribed the medicine. The collective Imperial Physicians of the Imperial Hospital all showed contempt in their eyes. The couplet that Feng Sanwu wrote at the Spring Banquet that year was too infamous, known throughout the court. Such a person, it is no wonder they¡¯d prescribe such nonsensical medicine. ¡°Li Qing, is what Noble Princess Consort Xiao said true?¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s face turned even gloomier. How dare they casually medicate Mother¡¯s phoenix body. ¡°Your humble servant would not dare to hide the truth. It is indeed Princess Feng who prescribed the medicine; it also cured the old servant¡¯s eye disease before, which prompted me to boldly attempt it.¡± Li Qing did not dare conceal anything. He sympathized with Emperor Yongye¡¯s recent concerns over the Empress Dowager¡¯s matter, which was why he thought to present the medicine, never expecting Noble Princess Consort Xiao to create complications. ¡°You dog of a servant, how dare you equate yourself to the Empress Dowager. This medicine must not be administered to the Empress Dowager. Every medicine has its poison; what if it harms the Empress Dowager? I think you are harboring ill intentions. Your Majesty, with the Empress Dowager falling ill, as the chief servant, Li Qing bears an inescapable responsibility and should be severely punished.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao scoffed coldly. Li Qing was a long-serving servant by Emperor Yongye¡¯s side. When Noble Princess Consort Xiao was not yet titled as such, she bribed Li Qing several times secretly in order to receive more attention from Emperor Yongye, only to be rebuked by him. Noble Princess Consort Xiao still remembered this grudge. ¡°Your humble servant is willing to accept the punishment, but this matter is unrelated to Princess Feng. I beg Your Majesty not to investigate her.¡± Li Qing pleaded. ¡°Your Majesty, it¡¯s terrible, the Empress Dowager has persistent stomach pains and has fainted!¡± The nanny serving by the Empress Dowager¡¯s side reported in panic. The Imperial Physicians were thrown into chaos at once. ¡°Your Majesty, Prince Wu, Princess Yong¡¯an, and Princess Shengping are requesting an audience outside.¡± A palace maid came to report from outside the palace. ¡°Take Li Qing away and lock him in the dungeon awaiting disposition. Let them in.¡± Emperor Yongye was annoyed, feeling troubled by everyone, especially Feng Bailing¡ªhow dare he prescribe medicine at a time like this. Li Qing was dragged away, and Feng Bailing frowned upon seeing Li Qing. ¡°Your Majesty, may I know what crime Mr. Li has committed?¡± Feng Bailing stepped forward, blocking the path of the guards. ¡°Princess Feng, there¡¯s no need to plead for this humble servant.¡± Li Qing shook his head. Emperor Yongye was in a fiery rage; one misstep, and Feng Bailing could also be caught in the disaster. Emperor Yongye chuckled coldly, paying no attention to Feng Bailing. ¡°Brother looks so angry, could it be because of the prescription from last night?¡± Dongfang Lianhua approached, respectfully bowing. Emperor Yongye then noticed Dongfang Lianhua; it had been several years since he had seen his imperial sister. He had heard she was gravely ill and had sent Imperial Physicians to check on her. The answer he received was that she was suffering from consumption and feared she might not live for many more years. Yet the Dongfang Lianhua standing before him had sharp facial features, a rosy complexion, long delicate eyebrows with no hint of illness between them, and lips red and full. Clad in a goose-yellow dress, she seemed more spirited than ever. Noble Princess Consort Xiao was green with envy. She was about the same age as Dongfang Lianhua, and although well taken care of, childbirth had changed her figure, and wrinkles showed on her brow. She was nothing like Dongfang Lianhua, who was slender and had skin as delicate as a peeled egg¡¯s. She wasn¡¯t close with Emperor Yongye and was reserved by nature, never addressing Emperor Yongye as ¡°brother¡± in front of others, but today, astonishingly, she called him that. Emperor Yongye was momentarily dazed, seeing the vision of Dongfang Lianhua as if recalling the little pest who used to follow Father Emperor and secretly smile at him. ¡°Lianhua, your illness... has it been cured?¡± Emperor Yongye scrutinized Dongfang Lianhua. ¡°Thank you for Brother¡¯s concern. Thanks to Ah Ling¡¯s medicine, I narrowly escaped death.¡± Dongfang Lianhua spoke softly. ¡°Ah Ling¡¯s medicine?¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s face showed a hint of suspicion. Could it be that Feng Bailing really knew medical skills? ¡°Ah Ling obtained a miracle medicine from traveling merchants. After Mr. Li and I used it, our diseases were cured. When Mr. Li came to ask for the medicine last night, he did not mention that the Empress Dowager was ill. Upon hearing about the symptoms, Ah Ling prescribed the medicine. If my brother does not believe me, Lianhua is willing to take the medicine with you, only asking that we do not let Mr. Li¡¯s hardship and Ah Ling¡¯s filial piety be in vain.¡± Dongfang Lianhua pleaded. Emperor Yongye furrowed his brow tightly. Li Qing¡¯s eye disease was not enough to prove anything, but Dongfang Lianhua, a patient abandoned by the Imperial Hospital, got better in just a few days? ¡°Summon someone, prepare the medicine.¡± After much hesitation, Emperor Yongye ordered someone to prepare the medicine. A quarter of an hour later, two doses of medicine were brought up. ¡°Mother, you¡¯ve just recovered from a severe illness. It¡¯s better for me to drink this medicine.¡± Feng Bailing took one bowl of medicine. ¡°The Empress Dowager still needs your observation. Let me drink it.¡± Dongfang Lianhua shook her head, Ah Ling had said that the medicine she prescribed for the Empress Dowager was meant to clear heat and detoxify and might cause diarrhea. ¡°Mosheng is willing to share the worries of the Princess and the Commandery Princess. I can volunteer to test this medicine.¡± Inside the resting quarters, someone stepped out. The person was tall and elegant, with a faint smile on his beautiful face that could make anyone jealous. ¡°Xiao Jiu, I told you to go back to Qian Residence first, why are you still here? It¡¯s been several days, your body cannot withstand much more.¡± Emperor Yongye sighed. Among all his sons, Dongfang Mosheng was the most filial. When the princes learned that the Empress Dowager was ill, they came with false concern. Only Dongfang Mosheng stayed by her side day and night. He might be blind, but his thoughts were delicate, far more filial than many people with sight. ¡°Father Emperor, I am a half-crippled person; this is the only use I have left.¡± Dongfang Mosheng showed a sorrowful expression. He reached out in the direction of Feng Bailing. Perhaps due to extreme tension, his hand touched Feng Bailing¡¯s. Like being scorched by fire, Dongfang Mosheng quickly withdrew his hand, his cheeks and earlobes flushing with red. ¡°Princess Feng, my apologies.¡± Dongfang Mosheng stammered. ¡°Then please allow me to trouble...¡± Just as Feng Bailing was about to pass the medicine over, a surge of hidden force suddenly struck. The bowl of medicine flew out of her hand, tracing an arc in the air and landing in Dugu Wu¡¯s hands. ¡°The medicine made by my fiance?e, if anyone is to test it, it should be me.¡± Dugu Wu glanced at the dark concoction and downed it in one gulp. Dongfang Mosheng was blind, but he was not. He was truly afraid that Feng Bailing would take the opportunity to grab and manhandle Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s hands. After all, Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s face was only slightly less handsome than his! If she dared to do so, Dugu Wu wouldn¡¯t care whether Dongfang Mosheng was a prince or not. He would chop off both his hands. Perhaps sensing the growing hostility emanating from Dugu Wu, Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s face turned pale, his lips quivering. ¡°Thank you, Prince Wu.¡± After Dugu Wu consumed the medicine, it was sent to the Empress Dowager. Seeing Dugu Wu walking with a cane no different from a normal person, Emperor Yongye¡¯s brows knitted tightly, then relaxed. A quarter of an hour later, startled cries could be heard from inside. The palace maids and nannies were in chaos. ¡°Not good, the Empress Dowager is vomiting and has diarrhea, her condition has worsened!¡± Chapter 62 - 62 62 Feng Bailings Medicine (Part 2) ?Chapter 62: Chapter 62: Feng Bailing¡¯s Medicine (Part 2) Chapter 62: Chapter 62: Feng Bailing¡¯s Medicine (Part 2) The news of the Empress Dowager¡¯s vomiting and diarrhea had just spread. Inside Ciyuan Palace, everyone reacted differently. Emperor Yongye¡¯s face turned livid, but before he could erupt in anger, Noble Princess Consort Xiao shouted. ¡°Feng Bailing, what else do you have to say for yourself? You plotted against the Empress Dowager, an act deserving of death! Guards, drag her out.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s face turned even paler. Ah Wu took the medicine too. ¡°Noble Princess Consort Xiao, the Emperor hasn¡¯t said a word yet, what are you so anxious about?¡± Dongfang Lianhua remained composed, confident in her daughter. ¡°To report to the Emperor, after taking this medicine, vomiting and diarrhea are indeed the expected reactions, as the medicine is an anti-parasitic medicine.¡± Feng Bailing appeared nonchalant, as if she had anticipated this; she was somewhat surprised, however, that Dugu Wu showed no reaction at all. Could this guy be some kind of monster? After downing a large bowl of medicine, he¡¯s totally fine? Feng Bailing stole a glance at Dugu Wu. They had the same medicine, and Dugu Wu had his share too; this guy looked as if nothing had happened, still there leisurely drinking tea? ¡°Princess Feng, if it¡¯s a normal reaction, why did Prince Wu not react at all?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er, who considered herself erudite and knowledgeable about pharmacology and pathology, had never heard of any anti-parasitic medicine. ¡°I have been taking all kinds of medicines since I was a child and have developed a resistance to ordinary ones,¡± Prince Wu casually replied, his heterochromatic eyes hardening as his hand unconsciously fell to his knee, his expression growing even more indifferent. A thought struck Feng Bailing. Gong Zhu had once said that poison and Pure Yang Qi have similar effects, capable of suppressing it within the body. As long as it didn¡¯t reach a certain level, it wouldn¡¯t affect one¡¯s health. Could it be that Dugu Wu has been poisoned so often that each time, he suppressed the poison in his body? Is it because the accumulation of toxins became excessive that his right knee became necrotic? Has he been poisoned since childhood? Who would do such a thing, a close relative or someone else? Somewhere in Feng Bailing¡¯s heart, something felt off. The world says that Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince, is cold-blooded and heartless, but if no one loved him, how could he be affectionate towards anyone? ¡°What anti-parasitic medicine? The Empress Dowager was fine, so how could there be parasites in her body?¡± ¡°The Empress Dowager is weak; vomiting and diarrhea at this time are harmful to her health.¡± ¡°In my opinion, we should quickly nourish the Empress Dowager.¡± The Imperial Physicians from the Imperial Hospital shook their heads one after another. The Imperial Physicians each gave their opinion, and Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression fluctuated unpredictably. ¡°Princess Shengping, make yourself clear, how could there be parasites in the Empress Dowager¡¯s body? If you fail to explain this clearly, not only will you be executed today, but the Princess¡¯ Mansion will be implicated as well.¡± ¡°To report to the Emperor, there indeed are parasites within the Empress Dowager¡¯s body, but they are not ordinary parasites, they are parasitic worms. If I haven¡¯t calculated wrong, they should have come from that portion of sashimi at the Spring Banquet that day.¡± Feng Bailing explained composedly. That day at the Spring Banquet, Feng Bailing had noticed a dish, it was sashimi sliced as thin as paper. Great Chu is situated at the crossroads of north and south, covering a vast territory that includes mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas. In the coastal towns to the south of Great Chu, there is a custom of eating sashimi. The Empress Dowager¡¯s maternal family is in the south, but since marrying into the Imperial Palace, she had not had sashimi for many years. This portion of sashimi was specially caught by Nalan Yan¡¯er from the south to please the Empress Dowager. Accompanied by sauce, it was incredibly delicious. When it was presented to the Empress Dowager, because it was a delicacy, only a few select tables had this dish. The Empress Dowager couldn¡¯t stop singing its praises and ate a little more of it. Feng Bailing also noticed the plate of sashimi; she knew that raw food could easily lead to parasitic infections, and valuing her life, although she sat at the Empress Dowager¡¯s table, she did not touch it with her chopsticks at all. That day, when Li Qing came to ask for medicine, Feng Bailing had already guessed that it could only be the Emperor or the Empress Dowager who would make Li Qing seek out medicine voluntarily. After hearing the symptoms described by Li Qing, Feng Bailing was certain that it was the Empress Dowager who had fallen ill! The Empress Dowager has always looked upon the Princess¡¯ Mansion favorably, and she herself, as the Commandery Princess, only managed to give the medicine because of the Empress Dowager¡¯s sake, so she took the risk. Upon hearing about parasites, all the Imperial Physicians were completely perplexed. Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes reddened as she knelt down. ¡°Princess Shengping, if you have a prejudice against me, you can just say it. How can you slander me like this? Not only the Empress Dowager ate the sashimi, but also it is a common practice to eat sashimi in the south, and nobody has ever said it caused worms in their stomach.¡± ¡°Exactly! Emperor, you must not listen to Feng Bailing¡¯s nonsense. I also ate that sashimi and haven¡¯t had a single issue.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao was full of disbelief. ¡°Sashimi made from deep-sea fish is unlikely to harbor parasites. But if it¡¯s made from freshwater fish, that¡¯s a different story. May I ask the Crown Princess Consort, the sashimi you brought back from the south is made from what kind of fish?¡± Feng Bailing remained calm and composed in the face of the joint confrontation from Nalan Yan¡¯er and Noble Princess Consort Xiao. Nalan Yan¡¯er was speechless. She didn¡¯t know anything about deep-sea fish versus fresh-water fish. Moreover, that fish was given to her by that person to present to the Empress Dowager. Could it be that person had known all along... Nalan Yan¡¯er was struck with fear and trepidation. Her gaze flickered as she looked towards Dugu Wu. How she wished that at this moment, Ah Wu could step in to clarify things for her. Nalan Yan¡¯er looked towards Dugu Wu, but when she saw him, her heart skipped a beat. Dugu Wu hadn¡¯t noticed her plea for help. He stood there, looking at Feng Bailing, his expression contemplative. Looking again at Feng Bailing, who despite being an unattractive woman, was full of confidence when she spoke. She seemed to have a magnetic charm that attracted others. Everyone present, even the blind Dongfang Mosheng, was captivated by her words. Inside Nalan Yan¡¯er, anger and jealousy were growing wildly. Never in her life had she been overshadowed by someone. Yet this Feng Bailing, time and again! ¡°Different people have different reactions to parasites. In recent days, the Imperial Physicians have been taking turns nourishing the Empress Dowager. The parasites inside her will only become more active. Right now, the Empress Dowager should reduce her food intake and continue taking medicine daily. In about two to three days, the parasites should be completely cleansed. Additionally, those who have eaten sashimi these past few days would do well to also take anti-parasitic medicine; otherwise, once the eggs hatch further and affect the liver and gallbladder, even deities would struggle to save them.¡± Feng Bailing spoke with undeniable assurance. ¡°Emperor, you must not trust the word of Princess Feng alone.¡± ¡°The Empress Dowager is frail and needs nourishment. ¡°We have never heard of such parasites.¡± Sneering¡ª The Imperial Physicians sounded like a chorus of strangled roosters as they were met with a cold sneer. A man¡¯s slender fingers gently tapped on his knee. ¡°I remember, the Imperial Physicians also said no medicine could cure my leg and that I would never stand up again for the rest of my life.¡± He exerted pressure with his left leg, separated himself from the crutch, and his body leaned slightly forward as he took a step. A hand reached out to steady him. That hand was soft and warm. Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes darkened, and he turned his head to see a pair of clear, lustrous eyes. ¡°Yet now, I can stand and even walk. A bunch of incompetent doctors, if you keep wagging your tongues, I¡¯ll pull out your tongues.¡± Dugu Wu did not mince his words as he spoke, leaning half of his body on Feng Bailing. Chapter 63 - 63 63 Slap Slap Slap Noble Princess Consort ?Chapter 63: Chapter 63: Slap Slap Slap, Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s Face Hurts Chapter 63: Chapter 63: Slap Slap Slap, Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s Face Hurts His left leg, after Lu Yin¡¯s treatment, had stopped worsening due to the poison. But there was still some time before it would fully recover. As for the right leg, it had completely lost sensation, treatment could only wait until Feng Bailing married into the family. Today, Dugu Wu seemed to be helping Feng Bailing, but in reality, he was also making a show of force; he must let the people of Chu City know that he, Dugu Wu, was still around. With Dugu Wu¡¯s stance today, the atmosphere in Ciyuan Palace had taken a steep downturn. Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression had eased slightly, but his brows quickly furrowed again. No one understood better than Emperor Yongye that Dugu Wu was a double-edged sword. He was a pivotal weapon for the country, capable of piercing through the throats of enemy armies, yet also a sharp blade hanging over Emperor Yongye¡¯s head, so distinguished that he overshadowed the sovereign, and should he ever turn, there would be no one in Great Chu who could withstand him. Those from the Imperial Hospital, were as if their tongues had truly been pulled out, silent as the grave. Even Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s demeanor had diminished by a measure. ¡°Your Majesty, there is actually another method. I heard that one of the fish sent to the Empress Dowager was kept; to find out if there are any parasites, one just needs to try eating it.¡± Feng Bailing broke the heavy silence. The Empress Dowager, merciful as she was, upon learning that Nalan Yan¡¯er had sent fish, had one kept with the intention of releasing it. The slices of raw fish arrived quickly, each piece thinly sliced like a cicada¡¯s wing, with a hefty amount of garlic and vinegar added, looking quite appetizing, and not at all like something that would contain worms. ¡°Where on earth would these worms come from? I see it as nothing more than some people spreading misleading words, and there are still those who indulge them. I don¡¯t know what they are really plotting.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao said with a mocking tone. ¡°If Noble Princess Consort Xiao does not believe it, she could try it herself, as a display of filial piety to the Empress Dowager.¡± Feng Bailing said with a smile. Upon hearing this, Noble Princess Consort Xiao was momentarily stunned, but quickly regained her composure. She did not believe the nonsense from Feng Bailing. On the day of the Spring Banquet, she too had eaten several slices of raw fish and was still lively and jumping around. Feng Bailing was trying to intimidate her, but she wasn¡¯t going to fall for it. ¡°I¡¯ll eat; how could the fish from the Crown Princess Consort¡¯s banquet be problematic? Clearly, it is someone harboring jealousy, framing and blaming others. If I eat this and nothing happens, the person who accused the Crown Princess Consort should be properly punished.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao said, then picked up a slice of the raw fish and ate it. The raw fish was incredibly fresh, the fatty part especially delicious and sweet. Noble Princess Consort Xiao had not gotten many slices last time, but now that she had a taste, her appetite surged and her chopsticks moved faster and faster. Soon, she had finished off an entire plate of raw fish. ¡°See, I am perfectly fine. What else do you have to say, Feng Bailing?¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao mocked. ¡°Noble Princess Consort need not rush, everyone reacts differently to parasites.¡± Feng Bailing smiled. A quarter of an hour passed, and Noble Princess Consort Xiao was still rosy-cheeked and full of vitality when she spoke. Nalan Yan¡¯er breathed a sigh of relief; Feng Bailing was indeed playing tricks, whatever parasites, probably were made up by her. ¡°Your Majesty, I am perfectly fine; it¡¯s clear that Feng Bailing is lying. She framed the Crown Princess Consort and even poisoned the Empress Dowager, her crimes are...¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao was speaking when suddenly, her face changed. She felt a pain in her lower abdomen. It must be an illusion, she thought; she had eaten too quickly. Noble Princess Consort Xiao comforted herself and took a sip of hot tea to calm her nerves. But after the hot water went down, the stomach pain did not subside; instead, it intensified. Soon she was sweating profusely and couldn¡¯t sit still. ¡°Aiyo, it hurts so much.¡± After a few more breaths, Noble Princess Consort Xiao felt an unstoppable pain in her abdomen and, disregarding her appearance, she collapsed to the ground, shaking as if she were in the throes of a seizure. This scared the Imperial Physicians and Nalan Yan¡¯er terribly. Especially Nalan Yan¡¯er, who had also eaten some raw fish that day, as had Xiao Xiu, albeit in a smaller amount. ¡°What are you waiting for? Hurry and attend to the Noble Princess Consort.¡± At this time, Emperor Yongye was starting to believe some of what Feng Bailing had said. His eyes filled with disdain as he swept a glance over Nalan Yan¡¯er. This daughter-in-law, handpicked by him for the Crown Prince for her virtue and ability, had never made a mistake before; he had not expected such a huge blunder to occur this time. The Imperial Physicians had become like mute gourds at this moment, none daring to take the lead. It wasn¡¯t that they didn¡¯t want to treat the Noble Princess Consort; they simply had no medicine. They had never even heard of anti-parasitic medicine. ¡°Feng Bailing, quick, give me the medicine.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao felt as if her abdomen was splitting open, a pain comparable to giving birth to ten Dongfang Lis. No longer caring for her appearance, she pushed away the palace maid next to her, and with stumbling steps, crawled to Feng Bailing, begging in a low voice. ¡°Noble Princess Consort Xiao, didn¡¯t you accuse me of spouting nonsense and deluding others?¡± Feng Bailing feigned a troubled expression. She had anticipated Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s outbreak. The raw fish Xiao had eaten at the Spring Banquet was not much, so no symptoms had appeared. But today was different, she had consumed such a large amount of raw fish that the probability of contracting parasites was high. ¡°Prince Wu, I beg you, please help save Noble Princess Consort Xiao, I am to blame for everything. If Princess Feng is willing, I am prepared to apologize to her.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er showed a face full of self-reproach as she looked towards Dugu Wu with an expression of desolation. Dugu Wu knitted his brows involuntarily. It was Feng Bailing who had the medicine, but Nalan Yan¡¯er was asking him for it. Knowing Feng Bailing as he did, he understood that she was petty and vengeful; aside from the Empress Dowager, anyone else wanting medicine would have to pay a price, no doubt about it. As for Noble Princess Consort Xiao, he had never liked her¡ªarrogant and overbearing, just like her son, senseless. ¡°Princess Feng, although Noble Princess Consort Xiao was at fault initially, she is also the future mother-in-law of Feng Xiangxue. You should take better care of her.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er spoke up in a hurry. By now, Noble Princess Consort Xiao felt half-dead, only desiring the medicine. ¡°Yes, we will be one family in the future. Your Majesty, I believe the second Miss of the Feng Mansion, Feng Xiangxue, embodies both virtue and talent. Ah Li has long admired her, thus I beseech Your Majesty... I beseech Your Majesty to grant this marriage, granting her to be... Ah Li¡¯s concubine.¡± The severe abdominal pain of Noble Princess Consort Xiao fueled her hatred for the Princess¡¯ Mansion. She had originally agreed with Nalan Yan¡¯er to bring Feng Xiangxue into the household as a concubine, but when the words reached her lips, they turned into ¡®Ah Li¡¯s concubine.¡¯ It was well known that the status of a concubine was much lower than that of a concubine. Emperor Yongye had little impression of Feng Xiangxue, remembering her only as the adopted daughter of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Since Dongfang Li liked her, and he had earlier breached the betrothal and thus dishonored the Princess¡¯ Mansion, marrying the adopted daughter of the Princess¡¯ Mansion as a concubine could also be seen as compensating the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°Since it is a match of mutual affection, I grant my permission for this marriage.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s heart stirred. History¡¯s course was changed once more. Feng Xiangxue was married off to Dongfang Li ahead of time, but this time, she was not the First Princess Consort, but a concubine. Feng Xiangxue, proud and lofty, would surely be infuriated to find herself a concubine. Chapter 64 - 64 64 New Discoveries in the First Aid Kit ?Chapter 64: Chapter 64: New Discoveries in the First Aid Kit Chapter 64: Chapter 64: New Discoveries in the First Aid Kit Emperor Yongye finally permitted, and Feng Bailing agreed to provide medicine to Noble Princess Consort Xiao. The prescription she gave was indeed as ordinary as the Imperial Physicians described, but besides common Chinese medicine, she also added anti-parasitic medicine. The anti-parasitic medicine was ground into a powder and mixed in with the Chinese medicine, rendering it undetectable while still effective, achieving the best of both worlds. When Feng Bailing secretly took out the new anti-parasitic medicine, she glanced at the emergency kit. She was stunned by what she saw. An additional medicine bottle, not previously there, was inside the emergency kit. The bottle didn¡¯t contain ordinary medicine, but an Endoscope Capsule, a product of 22nd-century development. It was a miniature device made using nanotechnology. After swallowing, the capsule acted as an anesthetic and could be expelled from the body within six hours without anyone noticing and without causing any pain. As an important part of internal medicine examinations, the advent of the endoscope resolved many medical issues in modern medicine. Back when Feng Bailing was on the battlefield, her medical cabin was equipped with a complete set of large endoscope devices, but unfortunately, she couldn¡¯t access the medical cabin at the moment. However, the portability and convenience of the Endoscope Capsule arguably surpassed that of the larger devices. This was particularly handy under the circumstances of the Empress Dowager¡¯s illness, coupled with the ¡®seventh sense¡¯ for further treatment. But, how did this device suddenly appear? This was no ordinary medicine; it was high-end, and even during her time on the battlefield, it was hard to procure. Feng Bailing pondered. She had already tried using the Seventh Sense to acquire the Endoscope Capsule before but failed multiple times. Perhaps because the Seventh Sense was not sufficiently developed... Feng Bailing recalled. In order to harness the Emperor¡¯s aura, today she had pinched and supported Dugu Wu. Although previously kissing him, which increased her Seventh Sense, had not yielded the Endoscope Capsule, Feng Bailing, after much thought, arrived at a potential explanation. If there was any difference in absorbing the Emperor¡¯s aura today compared to other days, it was that Dugu Wu had leaned on her voluntarily earlier. There was such a significant difference between voluntary and forced giving! It seems she needs to find ways to encourage Dugu Wu to take more initiative in the future. But with him being cold as ice forever, getting him to take initiative was easier said than done. In the chamber, a palace maid came to report that although the Empress Dowager was still suffering from vomiting and diarrhea, her abdominal pain had somewhat eased. Emperor Yongye, hearing of the Empress Dowager¡¯s improvement, was greatly pleased. ¡°Princess Feng, you may stay in the palace for the next few days until the Empress Dowager recovers, then you can return. Lianhua, it has been a while since you entered the palace, stay in Ciyuan Palace to accompany the Empress Dowager.¡± ¡°Emperor, your concubine is alright and wishes to stay here to care for the Empress Dowager...¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao, having just consumed the medicine given by Feng Bailing, intended to show her dedication. But no sooner had she ingested the medicine than her abdomen churned violently and with a loud, foul-smelling fart, she embarrassed herself in front of Emperor Yongye. The air was thick with an unspeakable stench, and the expressions of those present varied. Feng Bailing remained composed but was inwardly roaring with laughter. Since she was ¡°one of our own,¡± she took special care¡ªNoble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s medicine had twice the usual dose. In the harem, the concubines always strived to be the most fragrant and beautiful at all times, never exhibiting crude behaviors such as farting. Noble Princess Consort Xiao wished she could die of embarrassment; she had always presented herself as charming and lovely in front of Emperor Yongye and had never lost face like today. Emperor Yongye¡¯s face turned iron blue, and he left without attending to Noble Princess Consort Xiao. Noble Princess Consort Xiao, on the verge of tears, glared at Feng Bailing and was then supported away by the nanny and palace maids. ¡°Prince Wu, Princess Feng, the Empress Dowager invites you in.¡± A kindly looking nanny came out and beckoned them inside. ¡°Is the Empress Dowager in need of anything?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er asked with concern, barely taking a step when the nanny spoke harshly. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, the Empress Dowager only asked for Prince Wu and Princess Feng.¡± Upon learning that the Empress Dowager became sick because of the fish provided by the Crown Princess Consort, Ciyuan Palace¡¯s attitude toward Nalan Yan¡¯er had soured significantly. Inside the chamber, the Empress Dowager had her medicine. When Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu entered, they encountered Princess Consort Guo attending to her. Princess Consort Guo nodded at Dugu Wu but ignored Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing was puzzled as Princess Consort Guo seemed not to like her, yet she hadn¡¯t offended her. The Empress Dowager was already informed of the events and, although she had suffered greatly over the past few days and appeared quite haggard, she was relatively better than before. The Empress Dowager had looked after Dugu Wu for many years and was very familiar with his temperament. Due to his early experiences, Dugu Wu had always been cold-hearted. He was stern and ruthless, and even in front of his own grandmother, he had never smiled. She knew Dugu Wu did not favor this marriage, and he harbored resentment over the Crown Prince marrying Nalan Yan¡¯er. Yet, Nalan Yan¡¯er might not be the best match for him. Although the Princess¡¯ Mansion held no power or influence, Ah Ling was a good child. She might not be strikingly beautiful, but she had a good nature and was courageous. If the two could genuinely come together, perhaps Ah Wu¡¯s stony heart might eventually warm. ¡°You both come here.¡± The Empress Dowager smiled joyfully and waved at them. Once they approached, the Empress Dowager took their hands and had them sit by her bed. ¡°Empress Dowager, you need to rest, you should be lying down.¡± Dugu Wu spoke coldly. ¡°Child, I¡¯ve told you many times, in private, call me grandmother.¡± The Empress Dowager chided. ¡°Grandmother.¡± Feng Bailing sweetly called out, while Dugu Wu choked, his heterochromia eyes flashing a threatening light. ¡°It¡¯s Ah Ling who understands me. You two are about to marry, try to spend more time together daily, and don¡¯t mind the old customs. How can fiance?s develop feelings if they don¡¯t meet? I heard the Emperor has assigned you to the Ministry of Revenue, Ah Ling, find time to accompany him there, ensure he eats three meals a day.¡± The Empress Dowager earnestly advised, placing Dugu Wu¡¯s hand onto Feng Bailing¡¯s. Chapter 65 - 65 65 The Emperors Proud Son Dugu Wu and the ?Chapter 65: Chapter 65: The Emperor¡¯s Proud Son, Dugu Wu and the Ninth Prince Chapter 65: Chapter 65: The Emperor¡¯s Proud Son, Dugu Wu and the Ninth Prince A bronzed large hand covered a small, fair one. The man was handsome and robust; the woman, shy and charming, truly a match made in heaven. The Empress Dowager¡¯s eyes brimmed with laughter. Dugu Wu¡¯s body was somewhat stiff, but in front of the Empress Dowager, he couldn¡¯t lose his temper. He saw clearly, the sparkle in Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes, the look she gave him was tender and full of affection. Indeed, this woman admired him. When her hand was touched by Dugu Wu¡¯s, Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes instantly lit up, as if she had seen an emergency kit stocked with more and more endoscope capsules! She feigned shyness, nodding gently. To unlock the third layer of the emergency kit and the myriad of rare items and medicines related to the seventh sense, for these goals alone, she would cultivate a good relationship with Dugu Wu. ¡°Ah Wu is not good with words, it¡¯s because his mother...¡± ¡°Empress Dowager, in a few days, I will bring Xiaojin to see you.¡± The Empress Dowager talked about family matters, and just when she started to mention Dugu Wu¡¯s mother, she was abruptly cut off by Dugu Wu. The Empress Dowager sighed softly; the child could never get over that hurdle. Feng Bailing didn¡¯t know much about Dugu Wu, only knowing that he took his mother¡¯s surname and that his mother had passed away when he was very young. Her identity was a matter of debate; some said she was a spy from the enemy state, others a courtesan. There were all sorts of rumors, but Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion had always remained silent on the matter. Prince Shun had been a strikingly handsome man, but Dugu Wu did not resemble him much; Dugu Wu took after his mother, and this alone indicated that his mother must have been a woman of exquisite beauty. After the Empress Dowager spoke a few sentences and showed signs of fatigue, the two of them took their leave. As Feng Bailing was pushing Dugu Wu out, she spoke. ¡°I and my mother are ordered to stay in Ciyuan Palace to take care of the Empress Dowager. I am not at ease leaving Xiao Li alone in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, could you help look after her for a few days?¡± Ever since Feng Bailing inexplicably fainted that one time, Feng Xiaoli had become even clingier to her. During the day it was still manageable; the little one would play until she forgot everything else, but at night, she refused to sleep with anyone else and insisted on Feng Bailing telling her stories before she could fall asleep. Feng Xiaoli was very fond of Dugu Wu, and probably with Dugu Wu around, she could even fall asleep clinging onto him. Seeing that Dugu Wu had no objections, Feng Bailing continued. ¡°She¡¯s not fussy about food. The only thing is, she needs a story before bed, you just tell her a story, that¡¯s all.¡± The temperature around Dugu Wu suddenly dropped a few degrees. He knew how to face enemies, how to siege cities, how to win with strategies, how to assassinate; but storytelling, that, he did not know. Nobody ever told him that interacting with children required telling stories. ¡°Have you never told a story to Xiaojin?¡± Feng Bailing was puzzled. ¡°I¡¯ve told him the Four Books and Five Classics; I¡¯ve discussed military strategies; I¡¯ve taught him martial arts, steps, horseback riding and hunting. A man doesn¡¯t need to listen to stories.¡± Xiaojin was very intelligent, he had understood most characters by the age of one. Dugu Wu was often away on military campaigns and had little time with Xiaojin. During the limited time, he would teach Xiaojin as much as possible. ¡°How can you be a father like this? You¡¯ve obliterated his very nature. He¡¯s not your soldier, but a child. Children¡¯s childhood should be filled with fun, need parents¡¯ company, and of all things they do not need training.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s heart ached when he remembered the last time Dugu Xiaojin was silently enduring the bullying from the Imperial Eldest Granddaughter. ¡°Storytelling won¡¯t do, how about singing? Sing a lullaby to coax Xiao Li to sleep.¡± Feng Bailing spoke with disdain, not realizing that when she suggested singing a lullaby, Dugu Wu¡¯s expression showed, um, offense. Feng Bailing and Dongfang Lianhua were settled in a side hall of Ciyuan Palace. When Feng Bailing found Dongfang Lianhua, Dongfang Mosheng had just left. ¡°That child Mosheng hasn¡¯t slept for three days and nights. Among the princes, he¡¯s the most gentle and learned. It¡¯s a pity about his eyesight, Ah Ling, do you have any medicine to treat his eyes?¡± Dongfang Lianhua enjoyed conversing with Dongfang Mosheng, but she was still somewhat guarded and didn¡¯t reveal too much. ¡°There are many causes of eye diseases. If it isn¡¯t congenital, as long as the treatment is tailored to the condition, there¡¯s a chance of regaining sight. I wonder how the Ninth Prince became blind?¡± In that past life of Feng Bailing, her heart and eyes were full of only Dongfang Li, and she never paid attention to someone else named Dongfang Mosheng, whom she vaguely remembers as a cousin who died before Dongfang Li was bestowed a marriage. She was curious about Dongfang Mosheng who was a year younger than her and exceptionally handsome. Although he was blind, his actions and behaviors were no different from normal people, and he could even handle the difficult task of looking after the Empress Dowager with ease. In the Imperial Palace, where controversies abound, a silent and turbulent struggle had ensued among several princes after the Crown Prince fell unconscious. Only Dongfang Mosheng seemed to be an outsider, never getting involved, and for this reason, he was the most popular in the Imperial Palace, even more so than Crown Princess Consort Nalan Yan¡¯er. ¡°He wasn¡¯t born blind. He became blind due to a failed attempt at condensing the Wenhua Seal at the age of three.¡± Dongfang Lianhua shook her head with a sigh. Feng Bailing was surprised, so Dongfang Mosheng tried to form the Wenhua Seal at such a young age? If Dongfang Mosheng had successfully formed the Seal at the age of three, he wouldn¡¯t only be the foremost individual in the Royal Family but also possibly the entire Great Chu. However, his low birth and the early death of his mother, without the support of her family, made it difficult to even stand one¡¯s ground in the complicated Imperial Palace, let alone grow to adulthood. In fact, there were some similarities between Dongfang Mosheng and Dugu Wu; their mothers died early, and they both displayed extraordinary talents from a young age. ¡°If the blindness is due to a failure in forming the Seal, the case would be complex. It requires a personal examination.¡± Feng Bailing thought to herself that she might be able to help Dongfang Mosheng examine his eyes someday. ¡°However, a failure in forming the Seal isn¡¯t necessarily a bad thing. When the Second Prince was eleven, he formed the Wuji Seal and among the princes, the Emperor favored him the most. After he married Nalan Yan¡¯er, not long after, he accidentally fell from his horse and has not yet woken up.¡± Dongfang Lianhua shook her head and sighed. After the Second Prince¡¯s fall from the horse, Nalan Yan¡¯er gave birth to twin dragon and phoenix babies, a prodigious omen, which led to the Second Prince being appointed the Crown Prince. Was this incident man-made or an accident? To this day, no one knows, but Dongfang Lianhua also heard rumors that some suspect Dugu Wu had something to do with the fall of the Second Prince. But that¡¯s all speculation with no concrete evidence; Dongfang Lianhua didn¡¯t wish to bring this up with her daughter. After parting with Feng Bailing, Dugu Wu left the Imperial Palace in a contemplative mood. A few steps away, he saw someone standing at the end of a corridor in the nearby flower garden, looking up expectantly, with no palace maid or guard in sight. Her figure was graceful, standing under a cluster of blossoming peach trees, accentuating her already pale complexion. When she saw Dugu Wu, her eyes filled with joy. ¡°Ah Wu, I¡¯ve been waiting for you for a long time.¡± Chapter 66 - 66 66 Dugu Wus Soul Interrogation ?Chapter 66: Chapter 66: Dugu Wu¡¯s Soul Interrogation Chapter 66: Chapter 66: Dugu Wu¡¯s Soul Interrogation During her wait for Dugu Wu, Nalan Yan¡¯er felt as if each day dragged on like a year. She was jealous of Feng Bailing, who could rightfully walk alongside Ah Wu. Were it not for Ah Wu¡¯s leg being crippled, she wouldn¡¯t have had the slightest chance; to this day, Nalan Yan¡¯er still believed that Dugu Wu had feelings for her. However, that woman wouldn¡¯t be able to enjoy her triumph for much longer. No other woman could walk with Ah Wu, only she was special. ¡°I have nothing to discuss with the Crown Princess Consort.¡± The words Crown Princess Consort struck Nalan Yan¡¯er like a bolt from the blue, tears clouding her beautiful eyes. She bit her petal-like tender lips, corners of her mouth still stained with blood. ¡°Won¡¯t you at least ask how I got this injury? Feng Bailing schemed against me last night and I was hurt. That woman isn¡¯t as simple as you think.¡± The Imperial Hospital had never heard of the anti-parasitic medicine, and there was the unscathed Wushang breaking off the marriage with Dongfang Li, the disciplining of the overbearing Noble Princess Consort Xiao; all signs indicating that Feng Bailing was indeed not a common fish in the pond. ¡°I only lost the use of my legs, my eyes are not blind.¡± Dugu Wu turned to leave, Feng Zao was his eyes; what happened in the Princess¡¯ Mansion he knew all too clearly. ¡°Ah Wu, even if you don¡¯t care about me, you should care about our child. Xiao Xiu has also eaten raw fish, and Feng Bailing, knowing there was a problem with the raw fish, deliberately concealed it. She clearly has malicious intentions to harm us all.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er blocked Dugu Wu¡¯s path, her pair of children as precious to her as her own eyes, but she disdained to plead with Feng Bailing. ¡°Do you care about them? Do you tell them stories before bedtime?¡± Dugu Wu looked up, his blue eyes deep, his brown eyes profound. Confused and perplexed, Nalan Yan¡¯er didn¡¯t understand why Dugu Wu would suddenly ask such a question. Xiaojin and Xiao Xiu had each their own nursemaid to look after them since they were young; she had never heard of such a bedtime story. Not just her, which of the Prince¡¯s children wasn¡¯t likewise? ¡°Will you sing lullabies to them?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er was rendered speechless. Her singing voice was enchanting, and she knew how to play various ancient tunes on the lute, but what were lullabies? The old Dugu Wu would never ask such incomprehensible questions, this must have been said by Feng Bailing. Nalan Yan¡¯er couldn¡¯t help but feel a chill in her heart. She and Ah Wu were ostensibly close at hand, yet she felt the distance between them growing. ¡°If the Crown Princess Consort has nothing further, I¡¯ll take my leave.¡± Dugu Wu lowered his eyes, concealing the darkness within. Before Nalan Yan¡¯er could come back to her senses, Dugu Wu had already disappeared at the end of the corridor. Although Feng Bailing didn¡¯t have much of a reputation for integrity, she wouldn¡¯t stand by indifferently if an innocent child were in trouble. The spring¡¯s riotous bloom was lively, but Dugu Wu¡¯s lone figure in black looked so bleak. Nalan Yan¡¯er bit her lip, the taste of fresh blood spreading in her mouth. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, you agreed to pick up the Imperial Grandson today; at the year-end monthly examination his highness has once again taken first place.¡± Her personal maid stepped out uneasily, softly reminding her. Mention of her son Dongfang Jin brought a renewed joy to Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes. Ah Wu didn¡¯t care about Xiao Xiu, probably because she was a daughter, but Xiaojin was a different story. He was a boy, who had excelled in both literary and martial skills from a young age, far outshining the wild child Ah Wu had picked up in the Imperial College. ¡°Go to the Imperial College.¡± Upon leaving the Imperial Palace, Nalan Yan¡¯er resumed her role as the illustrious Crown Princess Consort. The Da Chu Imperial College is the highest place of learning that students in the Great Chu yearn for. It¡¯s open only to the children of officials of fifth-rank or above and accepts child students from the age of three. Since the late Emperor¡¯s reign, in order to recruit a broader array of talents, the age and recruitment range have been relaxed. Aside from the Royal Family and officials, commoners and even foreign students are allowed to enroll if they pass the entrance exam. It is situated on the outskirts of Chu City, some distance away from the bustling downtown, offering a tranquil environment amid the commotion. Unlike Yuxiu Academy, the Imperial College never stops teaching even in the depths of winter, taking a break only for five days during the New Year. At this time, the ginkgo trees at the entrance of the Imperial College are decked with fan-shaped new leaves that flutter in the wind. Today coincidentally is the spring entrance day, with some new students arriving by carriage or on foot, gathering outside this dream institute. Among them, a tiny figure appeared particularly out of place in the crowd. ¡°He¡± had a small topknot hairstyle, wore a loose-fitting blue robe, and had chubby cheeks that were red and plump. ¡°He¡± must be the youngest child student at the Imperial College. While other students were either carried by family members or attendants, ¡°he¡± too had a small basket on his back, toddling along with his short legs, wobbling along with the basket, making one anxious that ¡°he¡± might get crushed by it. Approaching the entrance of the Imperial College, ¡°his¡± large eyes shimmered like glass marbles. Xiao Pang wiped the sweat from his forehead, Feng Xiaoli looked up at the tall steps ahead, her little mouth pouting greatly. Had she known, she would have never agreed to fill in for Dachun at the Imperial College. Dachun was a distant relative of Chun Liu. He was also Feng Xiaoli¡¯s good friend. Dachun, a highly intelligent child, was accepted into the Imperial College last year and began his studies there this spring. He visited the Princess¡¯ Mansion to see Feng Xiaoli, which was on the way. But after arriving at the Princess¡¯ Mansion and enjoying some tea and pastries, Dachun suddenly turned red all over and started suffering from diarrhea. Chun Liu and the others were terrified. The doctor said Dachun got peach blossom dermatitis from pollen and needed more than ten days of rest. Dachun immediately started crying, saying that if he didn¡¯t report to the Imperial College today, he wouldn¡¯t be able to enroll. While the adults were worrying about the situation, Dachun secretly told Feng Xiaoli that ¡°wealth lies within books,¡± implying that the Imperial College had lots of delicious things to learn, and Feng Xiaoli, upon hearing this, insisted on going to the Imperial College. Chun Liu tried to talk her out of it, but Feng Xiaoli was adamant, and since Chun Liu couldn¡¯t find Feng Bailing, left with no choice, she had to send Feng Xiaoli over. Just as they arrived at the entrance of the Imperial College, Chun Liu was stopped outside. If only Father were here right now. Feng Xiaoli patted her pitiful little legs and muttered that if she could hang onto Father¡¯s long legs, she could have easily gone up. Muttering to herself, she turned her eyes full of anticipation towards the entrance. Just then, someone came in. It was Father¡¯s presence. Feng Xiaoli kicked out her little legs and, with a dash, flung herself toward the dark silhouette like an octopus. Chun Liu couldn¡¯t follow inside, but Feng Zao was always by her side. He was also responsible for the safety of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, which implicitly meant protecting Princess Feng and Feng Xiaoli. With Princess Feng not around, his task was to look after Feng Xiaoli. He never expected Feng Xiaoli to run off to the Imperial College. This little lady was just like a mini version of Princess Feng, always acting with impetuous fervor, yet without the same abilities as Princess Feng. It seemed that she was about to stir up serious trouble. It would be best to notify the Lord as soon as possible to come and pick her up. ¡°These two, how did they happen to meet?¡± Feng Zao usually remained unflustered in the face of surprises, but even he was momentarily confused upon seeing whom Feng Xiaoli had embraced. Chapter 67 - 67 67 The First Meeting of the Little Siblings ?Chapter 67: Chapter 67: The First Meeting of the Little Siblings (Part 1) Chapter 67: Chapter 67: The First Meeting of the Little Siblings (Part 1) This day, for Dugu Xiaojin, was no different from usual. Early in the morning at 5 a.m., he got up, washed up, then practiced horse stance for an hour, circulated his energy in a cycle, and practiced his boxing twice. He had breakfast at 7 a.m., ate silently, and after his meal, he recited for half an hour, packed his trunk, and was sent to the Imperial Academy. The horse carriage stopped about half a kilometer away from the Imperial Academy, and Dugu Xiaojin walked the rest of the way by himself. Among the students coming and going, he wore a neatly dressed blue robe of a child student, hid his presence, kept his head down, and did not attract attention. Although he was the second top student among the Imperial Academy¡¯s child students, Dugu Xiaojin preferred to be on his own; he was reticent and had no friends. Just as he entered the gates of the Imperial Academy, suddenly, a ¡°thing¡± flew towards him. Dugu Xiaojin was quick-witted and was about to dodge. But right behind him were more than twenty steps. If he dodged, the other would tumble down the stairs. Dugu Xiaojin being a kind child, hesitated for a moment, and the object flew into his arms. A sweet milky scent hit his face. Plump little hands, plump little feet, a tiny child student clinging to him like an octopus. In the shadows, a figure silently approached, ready to catch Xiao Li at any moment. Those familiar with Dugu Xiaojin knew that this little prince of Prince Wu had a severe ¡°fear of women.¡± The first time the Imperial Eldest Granddaughter saw him, she liked him and tried to hold his hand, but the young heir kicked her in the face. ¡°Daddy~ Eh~¡± Feng Xiaoli looked up, realized it was not her father, sniffed on Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s body with her nose, much like a little puppy. The scent was right! Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s face was expressionless as he peeled ¡°him¡± off his body. This little child student, with rosy lips and white teeth, crumbs of pastries around his mouth, resembled Baishan, the little creature he just adopted; both were a bit silly. Dugu Xiaojin felt the urge to pat his head but, being a polite child, suppressed the strange feeling and walked straight ahead. He took a few steps, then from behind, rapid footsteps followed. The little child student was following him. Although Feng Xiaoli and Dugu Xiaojin were of the same age, Feng Xiaoli had a typical bucket figure, whereas Dugu Xiaojin, who practiced martial arts all year round, was much taller and had longer legs. Each step Dugu Xiaojin took required Feng Xiaoli¡¯s short legs to run two steps. After not being able to follow for long, Feng Xiaoli was already panting heavily, and her small trunk almost knocked her over. Dugu Xiaojin paused, sighed internally, turned around with an expressionless handsome face. ¡°I don¡¯t know the way, wuu~¡± Feng Xiaoli¡¯s small hands pretended to wipe her dry eyes, her big eyes full of a desire to survive. The Imperial Academy was so big, the houses looked similar, there were too many steps to count even with fingers and toes, so tiring, Xiao Li didn¡¯t want to try anymore! Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s head started to ache, he walked over, picked up Feng Xiaoli and her small trunk, he had already noticed the wooden nameplate hanging on Xiao Li¡¯s trunk. Heavenly Class, Great Spring. So silly, yet she managed to get admitted to the Child Student Heaven Class. Well, seeing that they would be classmates in the future, he decided to lead her there. Not until the two little figures walked far away did the figure in the shadows come out of its petrified state. The Young Heir actually picked up Feng Xiaoli! During the time she was being carried away, Feng Xiaoli had already developed a deep admiration for Dugu Xiaojin. This young brother is so amazing, he carries her and two trunks without even running out of breath. He took the initiative to help Xiaoli, possessing a kind and good heart. And he is also very! Handsome! His eyes are big, his eyelashes as long as hers, his nose is high, and his mouth is also very good-looking. As handsome as her daddy! Xiao Li wants to be friends with him! Feng Xiaoli clenched her little fists, giving herself a pep talk, and set her first small target upon arriving at the Imperial Academy. The Imperial Academy covers three acres, with numerous buildings. Here, it is divided into the Youth Class and Child Student Class; the Child Student Class only admits boys aged three to under ten, while the Youth Class is for teenagers aged ten to twenty. Being admitted to the Imperial Academy means a potential to become a pillar of talent for Great Chu. In the past fifty years, the Imperial Academy has produced several top scorers, third place winners, and countless civil servants. The teachers here teach from astronomy to geography, and depending on the students¡¯ aptitudes, classes are divided into four levels: Heaven, Earth, Mysterious, and Yellow. Dachun is a somewhat famous child prodigy among the civilians of Chu City, who was admitted into the Heavenly Class through his abilities. The Heavenly Class is also known as the Genius Class, and among these students, several under the age of ten have formed their Wenhua Seals. In this session of the Heavenly Class, two students are highly expected by the teachers to form their Wenhua Earth Seals this year. Inside the Heavenly Class, there are only thirty child students, most of whom are children of officials, and a few are members of the Royal Family. Feng Xiaoli and Dugu Xiaojin are among the younger ones. Seeing Dugu Xiaojin bringing in a little one, the child students discussing the end-of-year test results all looked over. ¡°The first place is indeed the Imperial Grandson again, truly a son of the True Dragon, always ranking first.¡± ¡°Unlike Dugu Xiaojin, forever in second place.¡± ¡°He is from a poor family; it¡¯s already good enough that he was admitted to the Imperial Academy. Does he even dream of toppling the top rank?¡± The students in the Heavenly Class are generally a bit older than Dugu Xiaojin, most of them coming from families of officials and big landlords, and already understanding the nuances of society at the age of seven or eight. Their gazes at Dugu Xiaojin clearly carried jealousy and disdain. Dugu Xiaojin was a child student admitted last autumn, reportedly not even three years old and admitted exceptionally. Despite his good looks, his family background is modest. When coming to school, he couldn¡¯t even afford a horse carriage. More importantly, it was rumored among the child students that Dugu Xiaojin didn¡¯t have a mother, was abandoned since childhood, and that his father was fierce and ugly. With such background, yet still daring to share a name with the noble Imperial Grandson, deservedly always bullied by him. Dugu Xiaojin seemed unaware and sat down in the back corner. He took out his scrolls, began reading them, enclosing himself in his little world, blocking everything else out. Each desk bears the name of a child student. Dachun¡¯s name was right in front of Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s row. Feng Xiaoli¡¯s seat wasn¡¯t even warm yet when her stomach began growling with hunger, she fished out a piece of chocolate from her trunk. She loved chocolate the most, but Her Majesty didn¡¯t allow her to eat too much, saying that eating a lot would cause loss of teeth, how ugly! This piece was what she had saved up. Good things are to be shared with good friends. Like presenting a treasure, Feng Xiaoli split the chocolate into two halves, stuffing one half into Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s hand, her voice soft and babyish. ¡°For you to eat.¡± A hand suddenly reached out and snatched that half-piece of chocolate. Chapter 68 - 68 68 Meeting the Younger Siblings for the ?Chapter 68: Chapter 68: Meeting the Younger Siblings for the First Time (Part 2) Chapter 68: Chapter 68: Meeting the Younger Siblings for the First Time (Part 2) Dressed in blue silk clothes with pine branch patterns and wearing a white jade crown, the little boy snatched the chocolate from Feng Xiaoli¡¯s hand and threw it to the ground. He was slightly shorter than Dugu Xiaojin, had distinctive looks, red lips and white teeth, and his manner and speech were all steeped in nobility. However, the disdainful arrogance in his eyes made people feel very uncomfortable. Upon seeing this, many child students showed a schadenfreude expression. This child, named Dachun, said to be a prodigy, was the top scholar in last year¡¯s assessment, and like Dugu Xiaojin, he also came from a poor family. Commoners love to associate with commoners; no wonder he got along well with Dugu Xiaojin right away. On the first day of new students, the seniors inevitably had to show them who¡¯s boss. But since Dongfang Jin did not make a move himself, they also dared not to act recklessly; they all regarded Dongfang Jin as the leader to follow. Dongfang Jin knew that new child students were coming today; he originally wanted to drive him away directly, but unexpectedly upon seeing him, he found the newcomer to be quite impressive. That little face was chubby, whiter and softer than Xiao Xiu¡¯s, and his eyes were larger than Xiao Xiu¡¯s, big like two ripe grapes. Perhaps due to feeling aggrieved, his small mouth was pouting like a little yellow duck, making him cuter than any other little girl he had seen. ¡°Poor are the poor, treating a piece of dirt like a treasure. Dugu Xiaojin, could it be that your father can no longer afford to keep you, that you even have to eat dirt?¡± Dongfang Jin was one of the few in the Imperial Academy who knew Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s identity, but he also knew that Dugu Xiaojin was just an adopted son of Dugu Wu and Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion never acknowledged him. Hearing that Dugu Wu had also become disabled, Dongfang Jin looked down on Dugu Xiaojin even more. With him, Dongfang Jin around, Dugu Xiaojin and his father, like before, could only ever grovel as dogs for their Dongfang Family. Dongfang Jin saw Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s expressionless face and was annoyed by his disregard. Looking at Feng Xiaoli by the side, a surge of hostility rose in his heart, and he stomped towards the chocolate. His foot had not yet landed when suddenly a hand reached out. Dongfang Jin¡¯s foot paused in mid-air, and his face flushed red all at once. Dugu Xiaojin grabbed his foot, and no matter how hard he struggled as if applying an infant¡¯s strength, his foot was immobile, as if under an immobilization spell. Dugu Xiaojin picked up the half piece of chocolate, mimicking Feng Xiaoli¡¯s earlier motion, peeled off the outer paper, and without a frown, swallowed the black stuff expressionlessly. Dugu Xiaojin nodded slightly, showing a smile, this ¡°dirt,¡± bitter first but sweet later, he wasn¡¯t a child who loved snacks, but the ¡°dirt¡± Dachun brought was indeed delicious. Feng Xiaoli blinked twice with her big eyes, glancing at Dongfang Jin, pouting her lips. Just then, Mr. Guo from the Imperial Academy walked in, and the child students quickly dispersed and returned to their seats. Mr. Guo, well over seventy, sporting a goatee, had been teaching at the Imperial Academy for more than twenty years, a thin and skinny little old man. In his youth, he had served in the six ministries, talented and highly knowledgeable; even Emperor Yongye held him in high respect. His only flaw was that he was very old-fashioned, and his classes were extremely dull. If one couldn¡¯t answer his questions, regardless of who it was, they would receive ten strokes of the ruler. In the Heavenly Class, aside from Dongfang Jin, even Dugu Xiaojin had been hit by the ruler once. Not long after class started, Mr. Guo¡¯s monotone chanting-like voice successfully put Feng Xiaoli to sleep. Her little head began to nod off repeatedly, bobbing up and down. The other child students were not much better off than Feng Xiaoli, but they didn¡¯t dare to blatantly sleep like she did. ¡°Dachun, you answer.¡± Feng Xiaoli, with sleepy eyes, saw in her blurry vision the angry face of the little old man. There was still a suspicious patch of water on the table. Dongfang Jin, sitting to the left of Feng Xiaoli, seeing this scene, gestured with his eyebrows and eyes. ¡°Call me Brother Dongfang, and I¡¯ll help you.¡± Feng Xiaoli¡¯s petite, red lips parted and closed. ¡°To strengthen the army, in discussions of speed and strategy, to compete for profit worldwide, to forbid the roaming populace, to rigorously drill the soldiers...¡± Her childish voice was clear and pleasant, though her articulation wasn¡¯t yet perfect, every word and sentence she spoke was precise. Dongfang Jin and the other child students were nearly dumbfounded. No way, Dachun was clearly sleeping; how could she remember everything Mr. Guo said? Dugu Xiaojin was also somewhat surprised, quickly pocketing the little note she had prepared. ¡°Grandfather, you spoke today about the reform chapter in the Law of Chu.¡± Feng Xiaoli puffed out her tiny chest, her little head held high. Sleeping aside, attending class aside, Xiao Li did not slack off at all! Old Mr. Guo¡¯s eyes, blurry with age, sparkled with delight. This child, truly as legendary, a prodigy indeed! ¡°You recited very well. You all should learn from Dachun... Encourage one another. Who can explain the specific meaning of this chapter of the Law of Chu?¡± Mr. Guo signaled Feng Xiaoli to sit down; today¡¯s lesson had indeed been somewhat dry and dull. Although the students from the Heavenly Class were bright, being young, they could recite but explaining was rather challenging. Dongfang Jin sat straight; his grandfather Grandmaster Nalan had once discussed this chapter with him. Teacher Guo first looked towards Dugu Xiaojin. But Dugu Xiaojin lowered her head, avoiding the teacher¡¯s gaze. ¡°Xiaojin, also very sensible.¡± Mr. Guo inwardly lamented, retracting his gaze and looking towards Dongfang Jin. ¡°Dongfang Jin, answer please.¡± Dongfang Jin stood up, envied by the surrounding child students. This center of attention feeling, Dongfang Jin had long grown accustomed to it. He was about to speak when suddenly, an intense pain gripped his mouth, and an unusually large blister had formed on his tongue; speaking made the blister painfully throb. Dongfang Jin¡¯s face contorted as he groaned and moaned, unable to utter a complete sentence. ¡°Sit down.¡± Mr. Guo frowned, unavoidably disappointed. Given Dongfang Jin¡¯s knowledge, with his mother being Nalan Yan¡¯er and his grandfather Grandmaster Nalan, both profound scholars, how could he not discuss the Law of Chu. Dongfang Jin struggled to speak but couldn¡¯t, unable to even straighten his tongue, he could only watch helplessly as Mr. Guo pulled out a ruler. Crack, crack, crack, crack¡ª The ruler harshly struck the palm of his hand, ten solid blows, swelling Dongfang Jin¡¯s left hand terribly. Chapter 69 - 69 69 Who is that impressive kid ?Chapter 69: Chapter 69: Who is that impressive kid? Chapter 69: Chapter 69: Who is that impressive kid? At 3 p.m., students from the Imperial Academy poured out of the main gates like a tide. A horse carriage with red wheels had been waiting outside; a stunning woman clad in a Magnolia Smoke Cage Skirt parted the carriage curtains. As her delicate face was revealed, it attracted countless onlookers. Despite being a mother, Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s figure and appearance had hardly changed. Many vibrant young men gazed at her with admiration. Nalan Yan¡¯er gracefully alighted from the carriage, welcoming these gazes. Upon spotting Dongfang Jin in the crowd, she smiled warmly. Dongfang Jin, clutching his buttocks and limping, walked differently than usual. ¡°Jin¡¯er, what happened to you?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er, seeing her son¡¯s swollen left hand and his angry face, was taken aback. Dongfang Jin hemmed and hawed, pointing to his mouth. Just as he was about to say something, he found that the swelling on his tongue had disappeared, and when he touched his buttocks, there were no boils. Dongfang Jin, both angry and anxious, recounted his day¡¯s ordeal. ¡°You couldn¡¯t explain the Law of Chu and were hit ten times with a ruler by Mr. Guo?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s expression turned stern. Like her, Dongfang Jin had been knowledgeable and quick-witted from a young age, showing great promise in forming the Wenhua Seal. He was a prodigy, a child of the True Dragon¡ªhow could he err? ¡°Queen Mother, it¡¯s not that I couldn¡¯t explain. I had blisters in my mouth and boils on my buttocks.¡± Dongfang Jin was nearly in tears, but no matter how he explained, Nalan Yan¡¯er wouldn¡¯t believe him. It wasn¡¯t until Nalan Yan¡¯er saw Dugu Xiaojin walk over, unlike Dongfang Jin who was always surrounded by people, Dugu Xiaojin stood out from the crowd awkwardly. Dugu Xiaojin had always been introverted with a fear of women. Although outstanding at the Imperial Academy, he was perpetually second place and was additionally illegitimate. Yet, this wild child from the burial ground, Dugu Xiaojin, whose mother was unknown, was treated by Dugu Wu as if he were his own. Dugu Wu also highly valued his preferences¡ªif he said he disliked Feng Bailing... Nalan Yan¡¯er revealed a captivating smile; if she could remove those three Princess Consort Wus, she could certainly overthrow Feng Bailing too. She softly called Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s name. As Dugu Xiaojin saw the mother and son near the carriage in the distance, he lowered his head, intending to avoid them. But the woman¡¯s voice, hauntingly persistent, drew him towards the carriage despite his inner resistance. Step by step, he walked toward the carriage, as if it was an endless abyss ahead. ¡°Miss, are you hungry? Your nanny has brought your favorite food.¡± Chun Liu wiped Feng Xiaoli¡¯s face and hands with a handkerchief and opened the food box she brought. Miss looked at the food box, picked a few of her favorite items, wrapped them in the handkerchief, and dashed toward a carriage nearby. ¡°Brother Xiaojin, these are all for you; let¡¯s go home together.¡± Like a cheerful oriole, Feng Xiaoli bounced over to Dugu Xiaojin and grabbed his hand, stuffing a large packet of snacks into his hands. Brother Xiaojin¡¯s home was poor; she wanted to share all the tasty treats with him! Dugu Xiaojin shook violently, his controlled consciousness forcibly pulled back. Beside the carriage, Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s expression abruptly changed, her throat churning with a sweet, nauseating taste. Her pupils contracted sharply. That child broke her Blessing Technique! There were two methods to break the Blessing Technique. One was like what Feng Bailing did that day, directly interrupting Nalan Yan¡¯er. The other was like the child who had broken the enchantment on Dugu Xiaojin. Both, very difficult. Feng Bailing stumbled upon a dead mouse by blind luck, but how can a child, who appears to be only three or four years old, break the Blessing Technique? The Blessing Technique that Nalan Yan¡¯er had always been proud of was continuously broken within just two days. ¡°Who is he?¡± It was the first time Dongfang Jin had seen the Queen Mother like this; she hurriedly climbed into the horse carriage and slumped down inside. Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s forehead was covered with cold sweat, the sweat smudging her makeup, her eyeballs slightly protruding, and her lips were bitten to the point of losing color, making her look somewhat terrifying. ¡°He is Dachun, a new child student. Today, Mr. Guo even praised him.¡± Dongfang Jin watched as Dachun and Dugu Xiaojin walked away hand in hand, gritting her teeth in anger. Nalan Yan¡¯er recalled the words her son had previously spoken, abruptly developing blisters in his mouth and sores on his buttocks... The illness of the Empress Dowager, with the medicine provided by Feng Bailing, gradually stabilized. By the third day, the Empress Dowager was already out of bed and could consume some porridge. Over these days, Dongfang Lianhua had been accompanying the Empress Dowager, and their relationship had significantly deepened. The Empress Dowager had no daughters and her only biological son, Prince Shun, had also died young. Now with Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s company, it was as if she had gained a daughter. In the afternoon, Dongfang Lianhua accompanied the Empress Dowager for a walk in the imperial garden, while Li Qing, just returned from the Princess¡¯ Mansion, came to pay his respects. ¡°This humble servant thanks the Commandery Princess for saving my life.¡± Li Qing covertly assessed Feng Bailing. She still wore a veil over her face; today, Princess Feng was dressed in a plain white Moon Butterfly Cloak, her jet-black hair adorned with a Jade hairpin, and beneath her arched willow eyebrows were a pair of beautiful eyes like clear springs. Unlike other mistresses of the harem who were all obsequious to him, Feng Bailing always treated him with neither servility nor haughtiness, just like her mother Dongfang Lianhua. It was thanks to Feng Bailing risking her life to help that Li Qing was able to escape this disaster. Since that day Noble Princess Consort Xiao was humiliated in Ciyuan Palace, she has recently dared not move around the harem, fearing being ridiculed. ¡°You flatter me, Chief Li. It is you who have helped us, mother and daughter, greatly.¡± Feng Bailing smiled and inquired about the recent situation at the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°Nanny Su is looking after the south wing, everything is well.¡± Feng Bailing was satisfied inside, Mrs. Su indeed was competent, organizing everything properly in just a few days since arriving at the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°However, there was an incident in the south wing.¡± Li Qing went to bestow a marriage, originally the entire Princess¡¯ Mansion was joyous. This wedding, the Princess¡¯ Mansion had waited for so long, Feng Xiangxue, thinking she would soon become the Seventh Prince Consort, came out to express her gratitude despite her injuries. Who knew that right after the decree was announced, Aunt Xue fainted on the spot, and Feng Xiangxue, mortified to death, was only prevented from taking drastic actions by Feng Ruoyan pulling her back. The mother and daughter duo seeking death and disaster turned the Princess¡¯ Mansion upside down. To pacify his beloved concubine and daughter, in the end, the old lady came forward, promising a shop from the Princess¡¯ Mansion as Feng Xiangxue¡¯s dowry and additionally giving one thousand gold taels, which finally pacified Aunt Xue and her daughter. ¡°My younger sister is a clever woman, although being a concubine is a low status, she is still entering the Seventh Prince Mansion. She is reluctant to die, seizing the opportunity to garner some benefits. Before the marriage, she will still try to fight for more and turn the situation around.¡± Feng Bailing had long anticipated this. The old lady sure is generous with other people¡¯s money. A shop from Dongfang Lianhua, and she just gave it away without Dongfang Lianhua saying a word? Staying in the Imperial Palace for these few days, the Crown Princess Consort and Noble Princess Consort Xiao remained unusually quiet, an eerie calm that made Feng Bailing feel uneasy, sensing a storm brewing. Chapter 70 - 70 70 The Ingenious Use of Medical Endoscopes ?Chapter 70: Chapter 70: The Ingenious Use of Medical Endoscopes Chapter 70: Chapter 70: The Ingenious Use of Medical Endoscopes After the onset of spring, the imperial garden was brimming with vibrant colors. White were the newly blossomed pear flowers, red were the fully bloomed roses, and light yellow was the winter jasmine. Dongfang Lianhua, supporting the Empress Dowager, slowly strolled among the flowers. ¡°Lianhua, I see that you¡¯ve been looking quite well recently, almost as radiant as when you were a young girl. Your face doesn¡¯t have a single wrinkle. Noble Princess Consort Xiao and Princess Consort Guo would feel inferior compared to you.¡± These past few days, under the care of Feng Bailing and her daughter, the Empress Dowager was in good health. She scrutinized her companion Dongfang Lianhua closely; her skin was delicate, pink with a hint of red, just like a peeled lychee, truly making this old lady envious. ¡°Empress Dowager, you are teasing me again. I¡¯ve merely used some new shades of rouge and lipstick provided by Ah Ling. Ah Ling said they are more suited to my complexion.¡± All women love beauty; previously, Dongfang Lianhua, plagued by illness, had no interest in makeup. After her health improved slightly, Feng Bailing provided her with new makeup and skincare products. When those milk lotions and creams were applied to her face, by the next day, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s skin would become smooth and white, far more effective than pearl powder. Over these years, Da Chu Country has been prosperous and peaceful, and various powders and rouges from other nations have incessantly entered Da Chu through the merchants at the border. However, nothing could compare to the treasures Feng Bailing had obtained from the second layer of the emergency kit; she merely switched the containers, unbeknownst to Dongfang Lianhua. Each type had several shades, all of which suited Dongfang Lianhua exceptionally well, much better than those used by the ladies and noblewomen of Da Chu. At first, Dongfang Lianhua was reluctant, but because she had to enter the palace, she used them once. Unexpectedly, after applying the makeup, her skin looked fair and natural, her blush enhanced her complexion, and the brick-red lipstick was even more flattering in the spring. The Empress Dowager saw a completely rejuvenated Dongfang Lianhua, who looked at least ten years younger. ¡°This child Ah Ling, hiding such treasures, I will deal with her when I return.¡± The Empress Dowager playfully scolded. As they spoke, the Empress Dowager¡¯s complexion changed; she frowned, feeling the discomfort she had experienced a few days ago returning... After Li Qing had just finished reporting to Feng Bailing, he heard a little eunuch hurrying over, whispering into his ear. Upon hearing, Li Qing¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Princess Feng, the Empress Dowager¡¯s old illness has relapsed.¡± By the time the Empress Dowager was brought back, she had already fainted once. The news quickly reached Emperor Yongye, and soon after, he arrived at Ciyuan Palace in a rage. The Imperial Physicians from the Imperial Hospital also hurried over. ¡°Feng Bailing, how do you explain this?¡± Emperor Yongye demanded. The Empress Dowager¡¯s condition had improved these past days, pleasing Emperor Yongye immensely and making him view Feng Bailing and her daughter more favorably. ¡°Your Majesty, we have already said that Princess Feng¡¯s medicine is ineffective.¡± ¡°The Empress Dowager has been vomiting and purging these last few days, depleting her vitality, making it inadvisable to use medicine.¡± ¡°Princess Feng, in her urgency, misused the medicine, and it deeply harmed the Empress Dowager.¡± The Imperial Physicians, after checking her pulse, all shook their heads incessantly. The Empress Dowager¡¯s pulse was even more chaotic than before, and she was in excruciating pain like being sliced by knives. They were helpless but didn¡¯t forget to condemn Feng Bailing while she was down. ¡°Your Majesty, please allow my daughter and me to examine the Empress Dowager again.¡± Feng Bailing had already confirmed with Dongfang Lianhua that the Empress Dowager¡¯s condition had suddenly relapsed. During these days, they had been living and eating with the Empress Dowager, being very cautious with their diet, and she had been taking her medicine regularly. The parasites inside the Empress Dowager should have almost been cleared out by now. ¡°I will give you half a day more, if the Empress Dowager¡¯s illness is not stabilized today, I will behead you! And the Princess¡¯ Mansion should not think of staying out of this!¡± Emperor Yongye, full of oppression, watched fiercely at the side. Feng Bailing entered the sleeping chamber, where the Empress Dowager¡¯s face was pale and she was unable to speak. ¡°Grandmother, don¡¯t worry, drink some water first.¡± Feng Bailing said, and commanded someone to bring a cup of tea. While she was drinking, Feng Bailing had the Empress Dowager swallow an endoscope capsule. The capsule slid down the esophagus, quickly entering her body, while Feng Bailing hurriedly operated her seventh sense. In her mind, the situation within the Empress Dowager¡¯s body appeared. First the esophagus, then the stomach, everything looked normal. Feng Bailing was surprised in her heart. There were no traces of parasites in the Empress Dowager¡¯s stomach, it seemed that the previous anti-parasitic medicine had taken effect. But why then was the Empress Dowager still in constant pain? Feng Bailing furrowed her brows, recalling all sorts of medical cases she had seen in the past. In the 22nd century, the environment deteriorated drastically, some parasites mutated, from over 200 kinds of parasites in the 21st century, it more than doubled in the 22nd century. Some old parasite diseases reemerged, a lot of people suffered from various parasitic diseases, and specific drugs for these illnesses were also developed accordingly. After repeatedly asking the Empress Dowager, Feng Bailing found that although she was in pain, the location of the pain had changed. Last time, it was abdominal pain, this time, it was in the area of the liver and gallbladder. Could it be that improper deworming caused the parasites to scatter and infect other organs like the liver and gallbladder? After making her assessment, Feng Bailing immediately checked the other organs using her seventh sense. With the help of the endoscope, she saw suspicious strip-like objects in the area of the Empress Dowager¡¯s liver and gallbladder, especially inside the bile duct, where fully developed adult parasites were found. If it were not for the timely arrival of the endoscope capsule, Feng Bailing could not have discovered this anomaly. Only improper medication could cause the transfer of parasites. Feng Bailing questioned herself, as her dosage was very accurate, unless someone had tampered with the medication. ¡°Bring me the medicine residues from what the Empress Dowager consumed today and yesterday.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s face was as still as water, once the adult parasites invaded the liver and gallbladder, treatment would become much more difficult, requiring specific medicine. But specific medicine was not readily available, especially given her current seventh sense... Feng Bailing opened the emergency medical kit, the first layer contained the same old medicines and instruments. To get the specific medicine, there was only one method, which was to find Dugu Wu. Feng Bailing was extremely anxious, she only had half a day. The medicine residues were quickly brought over. Feng Bailing smelled it, and her brows instantly furrowed. Inside Ciyuan Palace, not only Emperor Yongye, but also the Empress and Noble Princess Consort Xiao and her son rushed over upon hearing the news. ¡°Emperor, this consort had already said, Princess Feng does not understand anything about medical skills, how could you entrust the Empress Dowager to her.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao was meticulously dressed today, aiming to restore her image in front of Emperor Yongye. She had been waiting for days, and finally seized the opportunity that she must not miss to see Feng Bailing beheaded. ¡°Noble Princess Consort Xiao, if it wasn¡¯t for Ah Ling¡¯s medicine, would you be able to stand here and talk?¡± The usually unobtrusive Dongfang Lianhua suddenly spoke up, leaving Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s face green with embarrassment. Chapter 71 - 71 71 Banishing Feng Bailing to the Cold Palace ?Chapter 71: Chapter 71: Banishing Feng Bailing to the Cold Palace Chapter 71: Chapter 71: Banishing Feng Bailing to the Cold Palace Upon hearing Dongfang Lianhua speak back to Noble Princess Consort Xiao, Dongfang Li spoke with dissatisfaction. ¡°Dongfang Lianhua, how dare you be so disrespectful to my Queen Mother.¡± ¡°Seventh Prince, Noble Princess Consort Xiao was conferred by the Emperor, and I was personally granted the title of Princess by the late Emperor. She is your Queen Mother, but I am also your aunt. Considering our status and seniority, you have no place to lecture me.¡± Dongfang Lianhua stood there, her gaze cold and unafraid as she looked at Noble Princess Consort Xiao and her son. Dongfang Li was at a loss for words for a moment. ¡°Seventh, you are not entitled to speak here.¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s brow was tightly furrowed, his majestic eye filled with worry as he stared at the quarters. Feng Bailing stepped out, attracting the gazes of many, some filled with concern and others with schadenfreude. ¡°Ah Ling, how is the Empress Dowager¡¯s illness?¡± Dongfang Lianhua quickly asked. ¡°The Empress Dowager¡¯s condition has worsened. I need to come up with a new prescription, which will take some time.¡± Despite multiple attempts, the emergency kit could not provide a miracle cure. For the moment, Feng Bailing had to think of another method. ¡°Feng Bailing, don¡¯t boast here. This is the Imperial Palace. Whatever medicine you need is at your disposal. It seems to me you are merely stalling for time.¡± When Dongfang Li saw Feng Bailing, he was reminded of the encounter with the female ghost that night. After thinking it over, he always felt something was not right. ¡°Emperor, the Imperial Physicians have said the Empress Dowager may not survive these next few days. It¡¯s all her fault. In my opinion, Feng Bailing should be severely punished.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao seized the opportunity to kick someone when they were down. ¡°Emperor, the Empress Dowager is at death¡¯s door, and without my medicine, no one in the Imperial Hospital can save her. I¡¯ve saved the Empress Dowager before; if I had intentions to harm her, I wouldn¡¯t have waited until today.¡± Feng Bailing finished speaking and cast her gaze towards the group of Imperial Physicians. The Imperial Physicians were as silent as chickens, none daring to stand out or face Emperor Yongye directly. Each wished they could bury their heads in the sand. ¡°Emperor, please grant Ah Ling a few more days. Lianhua is willing to vouch for her life; she will definitely be able to save the Empress Dowager.¡± Dongfang Lianhua kneeled gracefully before Emperor Yongye. The eyes of Emperor Yongye bore authority, and for a long while, he remained silent. Not until a weak, yet firm, voice came from the quarters inside: ¡°Emperor, I trust them.¡± Out of filial piety, Emperor Yongye dare not go against the wishes of the Empress Dowager. He glanced at Feng Bailing with a touch of resentment in his eyes. ¡°Out of regard for the Empress Dowager, I will give you three days. Someone, take Feng Bailing to the Cold Palace. If she does not have the new medicine within three days, drag her out of the Wumen Gate and behead her.¡± Having said that, Emperor Yongye flung his sleeve and strode out of Ciyuan Palace. Upon hearing Feng Bailing was to be taken to the Cold Palace, Noble Princess Consort Xiao felt secretly delighted. ¡°Isn¡¯t the Cold Palace haunted?¡± Dongfang Li muttered to himself, that place was rumored to be haunted by fierce ghosts, and many of the punished concubines and palace maids who entered it turned into lunatics. ¡°She¡¯d better die in that place. Wouldn¡¯t that just be wonderful? She¡¯s made our lives miserable.¡± Noble Princess Consort Xiao rejoiced inwardly. Nalan Yan¡¯er had indeed been wonderfully cunning; what she predicted about Feng Bailing and her daughter not escaping this plight had come true. If Feng Bailing were to die, the old Empress Dowager might not live for much longer either. Immediately, several eunuchs escorted Feng Bailing to the Cold Palace. ¡°Mother, there are some medicines in this box, keep them safe. I have already told Chief Li to inform Dugu Wu. Once he arrives, give him this emergency kit personally. Make sure it¡¯s handed to him directly. After he arrives, have him bring the box to find me.¡± Feng Bailing said as she handed the emergency kit to Dongfang Lianhua. As things stand, she could only take a gamble. Dongfang Lianhua recognized this chest; previously, the medicines given to her by Ah Ling, as well as the rouge and lipstick, were all taken out from this chest. Ah Ling said it was given to her by a traveling merchant from another region. Ah Ling placed great importance on this chest, and normally would never let anyone touch it. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, mother will definitely take good care of the chest. You must be careful when you go to the Cold Palace; that place is heavy with yin energy.¡± When Dongfang Lianhua lived in the Imperial Palace, she had heard that place was haunted by fierce ghosts. During the Hungry Ghost Festival and Qingming Festival, the hauntings would be at their worst, driving several watchful palace maids to insanity. Nowadays, there isn¡¯t a single person guarding the Cold Palace. ¡°Rest assured, Mr. Li will find ways to look after me.¡± Feng Bailing comforted Dongfang Lianhua a few words before being escorted to the Cold Palace. The Cold Palace is located in a depression on the northwest side of the Imperial Palace, surrounded by trees that block out sunlight all year round. Despite the onset of spring, the branches here are still bare, without a hint of greenery. With its red paint peeled off, the palace door was ajar, the walls were a discolored gray, and a broken net hung, not with spiders but with half a butterfly carcass. A chilly breeze blew through, and the blue-gray clothed eunuchs who had just escorted Feng Bailing to the outside of the Cold Palace felt a creepy shudder, and goosebumps rose all over their bodies. ¡°Princess Feng, please go inside.¡± The eunuchs, with a sinister tone, pushed Feng Bailing in, and the palace door slammed shut with a bang. The courtyard was large; a few dilapidated side rooms lay not far away, surrounded by knee-high dry grass. Thick layers of fallen leaves carpeted the ground, having accumulated over who knows how many years, and the air was filled with the smell of rotting and mouldy animal carcasses. This kind of environment would frighten anyone. Feng Bailing looked indifferent. Having been down and out in the streets before, she had eaten decomposing rat meat; she didn¡¯t know whether there were ghosts in the Cold Palace, but she was certain there were spies in Ciyuan Palace. She decided to familiarize herself with the surroundings first, and started wandering around the Cold Palace. As dusk fell, the sky grew increasingly overcast, and come night, not a single light was to be seen in the Cold Palace. Outside the palace gate, a little eunuch dropped a food box and hurriedly ran away. In the Cold Palace, only one meal was provided a day. Fortunately, the food in the box was still decent: a bowl of rice, one meat and one vegetable dish, and also a note from Li Qing. The note read that the message had been sent to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and Prince Wu would receive the news by tonight at the latest. Feng Bailing wasn¡¯t worried. After eating her fill, she chose a relatively clean side room and leaned against the corner to rest. She had been asleep for God knows how long when suddenly, a loud noise erupted. The wind blew open the door, and the cold breeze slammed against it; outside, thunder roared and lightning flashed, and a sudden spring rain broke the quiet night. When Feng Bailing awoke, it was already around the third watch. Large raindrops poured into the side room. She got up, intending to close the doors and windows. Just then, another flash of lightning struck. The lightning illuminated the courtyard as bright as day, revealing a white shadow. A blurry figure darted across the courtyard. Feng Bailing¡¯s seventh sense was extremely sharp, and she saw at a glance that it was a person. But at the dead of night, with lightning and thunder overhead, how could there be someone in the Cold Palace? Or could it be, this place really was haunted. Feng Bailing, no longer sleepy, weighed her options and, taking with her some Chili Water for protection, walked towards the courtyard. Chapter 72 - 72 72 Ninth Princes Nursery Rhyme ?Chapter 72: Chapter 72: Ninth Prince¡¯s Nursery Rhyme Chapter 72: Chapter 72: Ninth Prince¡¯s Nursery Rhyme The thunderstorm came suddenly, and it was the first rain after the beginning of spring. The rain was torrential, covering the sky and ground, yet it couldn¡¯t extinguish the raging fury in Feng Zhanlian¡¯s heart. ¡°Unfilial daughter, had I known this, I should never have taken her back. She should have been sent to the temple to become a nun.¡± Feng Zhanlian never dreamed that the moment Feng Bailing and her daughter stepped into the palace, they would stir up such immense trouble. The Emperor had Feng Bailing locked away in the Cold Palace, and Dongfang Lianhua was also put under house arrest in the Imperial Palace. Thanks to the Crown Princess Consort who secretly sent someone to deliver the news, otherwise they would still be in the dark. ¡°Master, you mustn¡¯t let your health be affected by anger. What¡¯s done is done; we must quickly think of a way to save everyone¡¯s lives. Otherwise, in three days, everyone at the Princess¡¯ Mansion may be implicated.¡± Aunt Xue took the ginseng tea handed over by a maid, speaking softly and gently, urging Feng Zhanlian not to be enraged. ¡°I want to cut off the father-daughter relationship. Anyway, in her eyes, I ceased to be her father long ago.¡± Feng Zhanlian blew his beard and glared furiously. Dongfang Lianhua too, just when he thought she had recovered and could help him get some errands, turns out she, along with that unfilial daughter, acted rebelliously, constantly opposing him. And Feng Luochen, tainted by Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s blood, not one of them good seeds. ¡°We should sever the father-daughter relationship sooner rather than later. As for that one in the east wing, she cannot stay either. We must avoid offending Noble Princess Consort Xiao and the rest, especially since we¡¯ll soon be family with the Seventh Prince.¡± Aunt Xue reminded him. Feng Zhanlian suddenly remembered there was still a wild brat being kept in the east wing. Feng Bailing was to marry Dugu Wu earlier, claiming that the child was his, and he had been cautious for a few days. But today, Aunt Xue discreetly revealed a secret to him. Feng Xiaoli was not Dugu Wu¡¯s seed at all! She was a wild child born of Feng Bailing¡¯s illicit affair with a porter. Feng Zhanlian had heard about Feng Bailing¡¯s impurity, but never imagined that she would stoop so low as to have affairs with porters. ¡°Good thing you reminded me. We must not sacrifice the major for the minor, offending our future relatives. Someone, go fetch that wild brat from the east wing and find a woman to sell her.¡± Feng Zhanlian smirked cruelly, his smile sharp like a knife¡¯s edge. In the east wing, Chun Liu was anxious, pacing in circles, while Mrs. Su kept company, taking turns comforting Feng Xiaoli. In Princess Feng¡¯s absence, Feng Xiaoli had been agitated for two nights, crying for her mother. Normally, the child had a good temper, but at night, she became particularly restless. Before and after dinner, word came from the palace that the Commandery Princess had committed a grave crime and had been locked in the Cold Palace. The little eunuch who delivered the message asked them not to worry, assuring them that once Prince Wu arrived, he would resolve this urgent dilemma. But when would Prince Wu come? Outside, a noisy sound of footsteps approached; the door was kicked open. ¡°Snatch that wild brat up.¡± Amidst the heavy rain, Feng Zhanlian, accompanied by a group of house servants, rushed into the room as if a pack of hungry wolves had entered a cattle pen. With a wave of his hand, four or five servants surged forward to snatch Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Master, this must not be done. Xiaoli is your own granddaughter; don¡¯t frighten the child.¡± Chun Liu stood protecting Feng Xiaoli, shocked and anxious. ¡°Pah, what bastard, how dare she claim to be my granddaughter. Lock the older one in the firewood room, and sell off the younger.¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s only current desire was to sever ties cleanly with Feng Xiaoli and her mother. ¡°Chun Liu, take Miss and run quickly, head to the Prince Mansion to find Prince Wu!¡± Mrs. Su, who never imagined that such a heartless father could exist, desperately pushed aside the blocking servants, urging Chun Liu to escape. Only Prince Wu could save the little Miss. Chun Liu, holding Feng Xiaoli, began to run out, but the heavy rain blocked their path. Thunder and lightning flashed rapidly; the courtyard was pitch black, and behind them followed relentless evil spirits. Chun Liu¡¯s eyes filled with tears. ¡°Miss, don¡¯t be afraid, Chun Liu will protect you.¡± Her tears uncontrollably streamed down, wiped by a chubby little hand. ¡°Xiao Li not afraid, bad old man, afraid!¡± Feng Xiaoli puffed her cheeks angrily, resembling a little goldfish, her large black eyes staring into the torrential downpour. Inside the house, Mrs. Su was flipped onto the floor by several house servants and tied up. ¡°What¡¯s this, a few grown men can¡¯t even catch Chun Liu?¡± Feng Zhanlian saw no movement outside, stepped out of the room, and the yard was pitch black. Feng Zhanlian shuddered for no apparent reason. In the rain, there was a figure holding Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Come on, capture Chun Liu.¡± Several house servants charged into the rain, and just then, a purple lightning bolt, like a serpent, lit up the courtyard. Feng Zhanlian shuddered again. Because he saw clearly that the person standing in the yard was not Chun Liu at all. It was a man leaning on a cane. He was holding Feng Xiaoli in his arms. Chun Liu had already disappeared without a trace. The man lowered his head and said something to Feng Xiaoli in his embrace, and Feng Xiaoli obediently closed her eyes. The man raised his head, and a strange scene occurred. The rain was pouring, but when it reached the man, it automatically parted around him. His pupils gave off a faint cold light against the night. He looked up, his thin lips parted slightly, revealing a chill that pierced to the bone with his smile. Killing intent burst forth in that moment. Without any visible weapon, those strong house servants suddenly collapsed on the ground at the same time. Their heads and bodies separated, and several heads rolled to Feng Zhanlian¡¯s feet. Feng Zhanlian, overcome with terror, his knees buckled, and a foul smell wafted from his legs as he passed out. Feng Wan appeared behind Feng Zhanlian as if by magic, dragging along a terrified Chun Liu. Feng Wan seemed to be speaking to Chun Liu, yet it also sounded like a self-reflection. ¡°My master loves to kill when he smiles.¡± In the third watch of the night, the rain washed away the blood, and peace returned to the east wing. Chun Liu and Mrs. Su were on tenterhooks beside the bed, their faces filled with unease, while Ninth Prince, holding Feng Xiaoli, was sitting there for quite a while already. Feng Xiaoli giggled at the sight of Dugu Wu, who had a stiff expression and tightly knit lips. After a while, his lips moved, and he squeezed out a nursery rhyme, badly out of tune. He never thought he¡¯d spend an entire day and night learning just one song. Had it not been for Feng Zao timely delivering the news, he wouldn¡¯t have been willing to come. When the song ended, Feng Xiaoli looked at Dugu Wu with big open eyes. Dugu Wu glared back at Feng Xiaoli. He decided to sing it once more, for the last time! Behind him, Chun Liu and Mrs. Su, who couldn¡¯t bear the torturous music any longer, had sneaked away, leaving only the unfortunate Feng Wan waiting on the side. So the master locked himself in the study for a whole day yesterday just to learn this? Maybe, he should add a bit more to the monthly salary and take the master to Piaoxiang Courtyard to listen to some melodies and learn from that? Over and over again, with her chubby hands propping her chin, Feng Xiaoli tilted her little head, her large black eyes full of energy. At the crow of the rooster, she imitated Her Majesty, as she usually did when covering her with a blanket, and tucked Dugu Wu in. Daddy, finally fell asleep! Chapter 73 - 73 73 The Mole Appears ?Chapter 73: Chapter 73: The Mole Appears! Chapter 73: Chapter 73: The Mole Appears! Perhaps infected by the sleepiness, Feng Xiaoli¡¯s eyelids drooped down, and her little head fell asleep on Dugu Wu¡¯s hand. Dugu Wu sat up silently and tucked Xiaoli into the covers. The little one had already woken up when tucking herself in. In her slumber, Feng Xiaoli¡¯s face, soft like a glutinous rice dumpling, still bore a sweet smile, her little cheeks red and adorable. Something seemed to fill his heart all at once. A hint of indulgent affection unconsciously flashed through Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes, which otherwise held the eternal frost of heterochromia. He had made countless enemies in his life, and although he had the protection of the brothers Feng Zao, he had not had a good night¡¯s sleep in a long time. Feng Wan summoned Chun Liu in to look after Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Master, Chief Li has sent news. Something has happened at the Empress Dowager¡¯s, Princess Feng has been confined to the Cold Palace.¡± Feng Wan whispered. ¡°Enter the palace.¡± Dugu Wu and Feng Wan disappeared into the night. After night fell, within Ciyuan Palace, the Empress Dowager had already gone to bed. Dongfang Lianhua in the side palace, worried about Feng Bailing, tossed and turned, unable to fall asleep. It wasn¡¯t until the rooster crowed three times that the lights in the side palace were extinguished. A sneaky figure slid into the empty side palace. On the soft couch in the side palace, even breathing could be heard; Dongfang Lianhua was fast asleep. The intruder tiptoed to the couch, searching for something. Upon seeing the emergency kit by Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s pillow, the intruder held their breath, picked up the kit, and was about to leave. Just as it was too late to say much, a flint was struck, and the side palace was brightly lit. The intruder was startled, exposed under the light wearing a narrow cyan jacket and grey skirt, her long, thin face full of terror¡ªit was Nanny Gui, who had served Dongfang Lianhua for many years. ¡°How could it be you?¡± Dongfang Lianhua was dumbfounded, her heart sinking to the bottom. A squad charged in, led by Li Qing and a group of guards. ¡°Princess, this servant...¡± Nanny Gui was out of her element, her pale lips trembling. ¡°You are my wedding nanny, I have treated you well over the years, why did you switch the Empress Dowager¡¯s medicine and try to steal Ah Ling¡¯s box?¡± Dongfang Lianhua looked down, her heart filled with bitterness. When Ah Ling handed the box to her, she also gave her a letter stating that the main anti-parasitic medicine in the Empress Dowager¡¯s recipe was missing, indicating that the medicine had been switched. There were few who handled the medicine; among a few suspects that Feng Bailing identified, there was Nanny Gui. Nanny Gui lowered her body and knelt on the ground. ¡°Mr. Li, I¡¯m innocent. I saw that the young miss secretly took some medicines from this box that no one has ever seen before and mixed them into the Empress Dowager¡¯s prescription. I was afraid it was poison and wanted to show it to the Imperial Physician, so I came to take this box. This servant is loyal, and heaven is my witness.¡± She bit back, and the shadows in Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s eyes deepened. ¡°Open the box.¡± Li Qing also knew Nanny Gui was a close attendant to Dongfang Lianhua and completely loyal to her. Nanny Gui eagerly opened the box; she had secretly seen the young miss retrieving medicine from it for the Princess, which hid some strange and unusual items. After the box was opened, it was as empty as could be, not a hair in sight. ¡°There¡¯s nothing?¡± Nanny Gui looked bewildered, turning the box upside down to ensure there were no hidden compartments. Seeing this, Dongfang Lianhua was also secretly shocked; the pills for reducing blood pressure taken by Ah Ling and those various rouge and lipsticks she had used had all vanished without a trace. Dongfang Lianhua and Nanny Gui were unaware that only Feng Bailing, who possessed the seventh sense, could retrieve items from the emergency box. To anyone else, the emergency box merely looked like a slightly more delicate makeup kit. ¡°Nanny Gui, do you have anything else to say?¡± The thought of her daughter locked away in the Cold Palace left a stifling anger caught in Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s throat. She and Ah Ling had been yielding at every turn, yet those demons and monsters constantly set traps for them. Ah Ling was right¡ªgood people are bullied, meek horses are ridden hard. She, could no longer endure! Tears brimmed in the aged eyes of Nanny Gui, but she remained silent. Just as Li Qing was about to speak, Dongfang Lianhua let out a cold laugh, icy frost gathering in her gaze as she walked up to Nanny Gui. ¡°Nanny Gui, you know I¡¯m weak-willed and have accepted that Aunt Xue will eventually become the head matriarch. You think that with Feng Xiangxue marrying the Seventh Prince, and my Ah Ling marrying the crippled Prince Wu, you can no longer rely on either my daughter or me. Weary of bending the knee and serving others in old age, you sought glory by betraying your own master.¡± Nanny Gui¡¯s frame shuddered. Each of Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s words hit home. She had always been loyal to the Princess, but after Feng Bailing¡¯s recent return, she had brought back a new and younger Mrs. Su. Mrs. Su was winning Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s favor, threatening Nanny Gui¡¯s own position. At the same time, her son was involved in an altercation outside, liable for a hefty compensation. Someone had secretly offered to cover this sum, as long as she would switch the medicine Feng Bailing was to give the Empress Dowager. It was then that she was tempted by greed. ¡°But you¡¯ve forgotten, you are my nanny. I hold the deed to your servitude, as well as the deeds to your entire family of nine. I have the power to sell you all, the men to slavery, the women to brothels. For generations, you¡¯d never escape your lowly status.¡± Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s words were cutting, and terror spread across Nanny Gui¡¯s wrinkled face. ¡°Princess, spare my life, please! Your humble servant... your humble servant will tell all.¡± Nanny Gui clung to Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s legs, begging and kowtowing. ¡°It was... it was...¡± Nanny Gui stuttered, and as the name reached her lips, a sharp pain pierced through her head, as if she were being stabbed by needles. Nanny Gui¡¯s eyes suddenly shifted, and her frail body sprung up dramatically, unexpectedly pulling out a pair of scissors aimed straight for Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s heart. Li Qing and the guards had not even had time to react. Dongfang Lianhua subtly sidestepped the scissors. With swift movements, she snatched the scissors from Nanny Gui and sent her tumbling to the ground with a kick. ¡°Take her down, quickly.¡± Before Li Qing¡¯s words even finished, Nanny Gui leaped up, smashing her head against a wall. ¡°She¡¯s been hexed with a Blessing Technique and has lost her senses.¡± Prince Wu entered the side hall with Feng Wan. ¡°Prince Wu, it¡¯s good that you¡¯ve come.¡± Li Qing breathed a sigh of relief. Feng Wan approached to examine Nanny Gui, only to find her forehead bleeding, her pupils dilated, lifeless. ¡°Prince Wu, please go save Ah Ling. This is what she asked me to give to you.¡± Dongfang Lianhua looked at the corpse of Nanny Gui, a bitter smile on her lips as she shook her head. Flies don¡¯t sting a seamless egg; only those with wavering minds fall victim to a Blessing Technique. She, too, had heard some tales about such techniques. In the previous years, the harem of Great Chu had concubines who used the Blessing Technique to bewitch the late Emperor. Discovered, that concubine was executed by the late Emperor. Since then, no one in the harem dared mention the Blessing Technique again. Yet, Nanny Gui had always been by her side, serving her¡ªjust who was it that secretly used the Blessing Technique on her? Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s mind was troubled, but she did not forget Ah Ling¡¯s instructions, handing the emergency box to Dugu Wu. Dugu Wu briefly glanced at the emergency kit. The idea of him, a grown man, carrying around a makeup box was beneath his dignity, scoffing at what peculiar scheme that woman had in mind! Chapter 74 - 74 74 What are you two doing alone together ?Chapter 74: Chapter 74: What are you two doing alone together? Chapter 74: Chapter 74: What are you two doing alone together? Dugu Wu was about to head to the Cold Palace. Li Qing hurriedly stopped Dugu Wu, expressing his concern. ¡°Prince Wu, you have just relinquished your command over the Imperial Army and entered the palace late at night, which is against the rules. If you barge into the Cold Palace rashly, I fear it may be improper.¡± In the afternoon, Emperor Yongye had just transferred the command of the Imperial Army to the Seventh Prince. ¡°She is my betrothed. Is it proper to confine her in the Cold Palace?¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s retort left Li Qing speechless, and by the time Li Qing had a comeback, Dugu Wu was already gone. ¡°Quick, go and report to the Emperor.¡± Li Qing¡¯s face was filled with distress. Feng Wan chased after the Prince, who, now with the aid of a walking stick, was moving at a brisk pace! Was he worried about Princess Feng? The rain was pouring heavily, yet not a single drop seemed to wet Dugu Wu. In the darkness of the night, the Imperial Palace was desolate and gloomy. Approaching the Cold Palace, dozens of guards clad in straw raincoats rushed towards him through the curtain of rain, Dongfang Li blocked Dugu Wu¡¯s path with a gloomy face. ¡°Prince Wu, for trespassing into the Imperial Palace in the dead of night, what crime should you be charged with? Guards, seize them!¡± Dongfang Li bore an air of unassailable arrogance. The Father Emperor still favored him, having beaten him a few days ago but soon after appointed him to command the Imperial Army. Dugu Wu, no matter how brazen, was but a dog of the Dongfang Family. Dugu Wu sneered, his gaze sweeping back and forth across the group of Imperial Army soldiers. Those highly skilled soldiers of the Imperial Army stood rooted to the spot, daring not to make a move. All these men had once served under Dugu Wu, and they knew full well that his martial prowess could easily bring them to their knees with a flick of his finger. Years of amassed power still held sway; he only needed to give them a glare for them to cower. ¡°Have you all gone deaf?¡± Boom¡ª A startling thunderclap resounded in the sky, causing Dongfang Li to shiver. Across from him, Dugu Wu¡¯s handsome yet sinister face, illuminated by the flashes of lightning, became even more chilling, resembling King Yanluo presiding over the eighteen layers of hell. From not far off, a cry of alarm could be heard. Dugu Wu¡¯s expression suddenly changed, and Dongfang Li was also taken aback. That woman couldn¡¯t have encountered a ghost, could she? ¡°Quick! To the Cold Palace!¡± Dongfang Li came to his senses, and beside him, he whipped past as if sprouting wings, whooshing right under his watch. Time rewound to half a quarter of an hour earlier; in the late night, a torrential downpour startled Feng Bailing from her sleep. She caught sight of a figure, triggering alarms in her heart. Finding a tattered bamboo hat in the corner, she put it on and, holding a lantern, headed into the courtyard. During the day, she had inspected the Cold Palace, making sure no one else was there besides her. In the deep of the night, amidst the thunder and rain, every chamber in the Cold Palace seemed to transform into a lurking beast, ready to open its gaping maw at any time to swallow someone whole. The lantern flickered, and the rain lightened a little. In the courtyard overrun with wild grass, the lamp¡¯s shadow flickered and then died. Someone was standing under the old locust tree in the Cold Palace, his back to Feng Bailing. His clothes were thin, soaked by the rain, revealing a muscular yet somewhat emaciated back. The old locust tree had long been dead, leaving only its bare branches. The ground was littered with wet and torn paper money. An oil-paper umbrella lay on the ground, underneath which were several plates of fruit and pastries. ¡°Ninth Prince?¡± Feng Bailing was somewhat surprised to encounter Dongfang Mosheng again in such a rainy night at a place like the Cold Palace. Hearing a noise, he turned around. Water streamed incessantly over his pale, almost sickly face, and from those misty, beautiful eyes, it was uncertain whether it was rain or tears. ¡°It¡¯s Princess Feng. Sorry to have frightened you.¡± Dongfang Mosheng gave a slight nod, his smile hollow. This Ninth Prince was extremely handsome but not like Dugu Wu; that man was also very handsome, wildly so, with an extravagance to his beauty. The beauty of Dongfang Mosheng, however, was desolate and fragile. Feng Bailing thought silently to herself. ¡°Is the Ninth Prince mourning someone?¡± Feng Bailing stepped forward. ¡°Today is my mother¡¯s death anniversary, no one in the palace remembers it. I couldn¡¯t come during the day, so I only had the chance at night thanks to Brother Seven¡¯s convenience. Unfortunately, Princess Feng is also in the Cold Palace tonight.¡± His words reminded Feng Bailing that Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s mother was a famed courtesan of the music bureau. Though Emperor Yongye favored her once, it was an affair of drunkenness, and he didn¡¯t take her to heart. Later, when she gave birth to Dongfang Mosheng, she wept and begged at the Empress Dowager¡¯s feet for a status for her son, causing a stir in the harem. Emperor Yongye felt his dignity compromised, and in a fit of imperial rage, while acknowledging Dongfang Mosheng as his son, he confined both him and his mother to the Cold Palace. In a place like the Cold Palace, where time wasted away, even the most beautiful faces would whither to bones; she committed suicide by hanging herself when Dongfang Mosheng was three. Only after that was Dongfang Mosheng taken out and raised by Noble Princess Consort Xiao. The place where she hung herself was this old locust tree in the Cold Palace. Trees harbor spirits; the locust tree does as well. Dongfang Mosheng packed the fruit and pastries into the food box he was carrying. His movements were methodical, indistinguishable from those of ordinary people. Even when caring for others in Ciyuan Palace, Dongfang Mosheng was the same. He was faster at serving tea and delivering water than the average palace maid, humble to the point of being pitiful despite being a prince. Perhaps sensing Feng Bailing¡¯s gaze, he said with a smile. ¡°Though I am blind, my other senses are sharp. Princess Feng need not pity me.¡± Accustomed to pitiful gazes since childhood, for some reason, he did not desire Feng Bailing¡¯s sympathy. ¡°The moon waxes and wanes; no one is without flaws. Why should the Ninth Prince belittle himself?¡± Feng Bailing smiled as she picked up an oil-paper umbrella, using it to shield Dongfang Mosheng from the chilly rain. A cool fragrance wafted over, a faint plum-like scent, sweet but not cloying, causing Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s expression to momentarily stiffen. His eyes changed rapidly, his voice urgent. ¡°Commandery Princess, be careful!¡± He wrapped his arms around Feng Bailing¡¯s waist, and the two suddenly fell to the ground. Under his hand, the woman¡¯s waist felt soft and delicate, separated only by thin layers of clothing, causing Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s heartbeat to quicken slightly. A silver ring snake as thick as an arm shot out from the bushes. Hissing loudly, it bared its fangs and lunged at Dongfang Mosheng. Twin fang marks appeared on his arm. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid...¡± Dongfang Mosheng spoke in a hoarse voice, about to comfort the person in his arms. But the person in his arms acted first. Feng Bailing pulled out the hairpin from her head, and with a swoosh, it pierced through the rain and struck the snake at its vital spot. The doors to the Cold Palace were slammed open, and Dugu Wu, Dongfang Li, and others rushed in, only to witness a scene. A handsome, tall man lay pale on the ground, protecting Feng Bailing beneath him. Feng Bailing pulled out the hairpin and quickly made a cross-shaped cut on Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s arm, squeezing out the black snake blood. ¡°Bring strong liquor and herbs like Chinese groundsel, wild daisy, Gentiana scabra, or Zhi Nanxing.¡± Her voice brooked no argument, and as she saw Dongfang Li, her gaze also landed on Dugu Wu, his face as dark as if someone owed him millions of taels. ¡°Well? Aren¡¯t you going to find them?¡± Dongfang Li hurriedly gave orders, and the guards scrambled to fetch the herbs. ¡°You... Ninth. What an unsightly display you two make.¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s face also looked bad as he glared at Feng Bailing and moved to help Dongfang Mosheng. ¡°He can¡¯t be moved; any movement will drive the poison to his heart.¡± Feng Bailing regarded him with great disdain, sweeping a glance at Dongfang Li. A wheelchair slid to her side, and Dugu Wu, with a foul expression as if he was yanking out a radish, pulled Feng Bailing out from Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s embrace. Chapter 75 - 75 75 The Disciple of Medical Buddha ?Chapter 75: Chapter 75 The Disciple of Medical Buddha Chapter 75: Chapter 75 The Disciple of Medical Buddha ¡°Ninth Prince, I have offended you.¡± He grabbed Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s hand, and Dongfang Mosheng only felt a warm current pulsing through his hand, pushing the black poison out of the wound. In the blink of an eye, the blood from the two bite marks returned to a bright red. This skill impressed Feng Bailing, who realized in a critical moment, Dugu Wu¡¯s capabilities were more useful than a first aid kit. Thinking of the first aid kit, Feng Bailing noticed that Dugu Wu was holding it in his arms, her eyes lighting up visibly as she saw a huge amount of Emperor¡¯s aura entering the first aid kit. ¡°Thank you, Prince Wu.¡± Although a life was saved, Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s complexion turned even paler, and Dongfang Li hurriedly helped him up. ¡°I told you not to come to worship. You encountered a snake and still protected her. She is even more poisonous than vipers. Have you forgotten that she almost killed your grandmother?¡± Dongfang Li said indignantly. ¡°The one who harmed the Empress Dowager was someone else. Nanny Gui by Princess Yong¡¯an¡¯s side was controlled by the Blessing Technique, she switched the Empress Dowager¡¯s medicine, and has already been executed on the spot.¡± Dugu Wu mentioned the Blessing Technique, his gaze sweeping across Dongfang Li and Dongfang Mosheng, both of whom were somewhat shocked but showed no anomalies. ¡°What are you still doing here? Follow me to Ciyuan Palace.¡± Dugu Wu spoke tersely, grabbing Feng Bailing¡¯s hand and leaving. It was only after the two had walked away that Dongfang Li came to his senses. ¡°Who allowed her to leave the Cold Palace?¡± ¡°Brother Seven, don¡¯t you understand? You and I are no match for Prince Wu now.¡± The bleeding from the wound on Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s arm had stopped, and he lowered his eyes, his long lashes casting a shadow over the greyness beneath. ¡°That damned bastard, I¡¯m going to report this to Father Emperor.¡± Dongfang Li left with a face full of anger. The storm came quickly and left just as quickly. ¡°Lucky you came in time, now the Empress Dowager can be saved.¡± Feng Bailing retrieved her first aid kit and hurriedly opened it. Upon opening, she was both amused and frustrated. The first aid kit not only had extra potent medicine, but they were also specifically tailored to the Empress Dowager¡¯s height and weight, thoughtfully specifying how much medicine to take three times a day. First aid kit, could you be any more obsequious! Feng Bailing chuckled dryly and closed the box. By the time they returned to Ciyuan Palace, fifteen minutes had passed. Feng Bailing quickly administered the potent medicine to the Empress Dowager, and Emperor Yongye also arrived. ¡°For the next three days, both you and Dugu will stay in the palace. If the Empress Dowager improves, I will not hold you accountable. If anything happens to her, I will not spare you.¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression remained grim, but he did not pursue Dugu Wu¡¯s unauthorized entry to the Imperial Palace. Feng Bailing had the same intentions¡ªthough the potent medicine works, its effects are strong. With Dugu Wu¡¯s Emperor¡¯s aura for protection, the Empress Dowager would surely recover. ¡°Princess Shengping, come with me.¡± Emperor Yongye commanded Dugu Wu to stay with the Empress Dowager, taking Feng Bailing to a side hall. ¡°Bring that box of yours for me to inspect.¡± Emperor Yongye had already learned from Li Qing about Nanny Gui stealing the box. Feng Bailing¡¯s heart tightened, knowing Emperor Yongye had grown suspicious. Although she did her best to conceal her medical skills, the sudden recovery of Dongfang Lianhua and the anti-parasitic medicine for the Empress Dowager had already aroused the suspicious Emperor Yongye¡¯s mistrust. The first aid kit was delivered before Emperor Yongye. Li Qing opened it and handed it to Emperor Yongye. Inside the square box, there was nothing. ¡°Where did you get those medicines from? Don¡¯t lie to me, these medicines cannot possibly be found in the market.¡± Once Emperor Yongye finished speaking, Feng Bailing immediately knelt down. ¡°Not hiding from the Emperor, actually those medicines were not from a traveling merchant, but were secretly given to me by my master.¡± Feng Bailing spoke calmly. Emperor Yongye has numerous informants, and the excuse of a traveling merchant will be exposed sooner or later. ¡°Who is your master? Why have you never mentioned her before?¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s gaze was deep, staring at Feng Bailing as if trying to find any trace of lying. But Feng Bailing was open and honest, looking up at Emperor Yongye. ¡°My master is the Medical Buddha. Three years ago, I was in the Other Manor...about to give birth. That day, I had a hemorrhage during labor and nearly lost my life. My master, an extraordinary recluse, happened to pass by the manor and saved my life. After saving me, she lived in the manor for a year, taught me some basic medical skills, and left me some medicines. The medicine for Mr. Li¡¯s eye disease was also casually mentioned by her, and I remembered it.¡± Feng Bailing spoke methodically, and no flaws could be detected at first listen. Feng Bailing giving birth before marriage was originally a scandal. But since the child was Dugu Wu¡¯s, it was a different situation. ¡°Is there such a person as the Medical Buddha in other countries?¡± Emperor Yongye glanced at Li Qing. ¡°Reporting to the Emperor, the world is vast and wonders abound, perhaps there really is such a person. After all, the Imperial Physicians of the Imperial Hospital are helpless with the Empress Dowager¡¯s illness.¡± Li Qing answered softly. ¡°After she took me as her disciple, she instructed me not to publicize it, to avoid unnecessary trouble.¡± Seeing Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression, Feng Bailing knew he was halfway convinced. She suddenly removed the veil from her face. Under the lamplight, the woman¡¯s features were exquisitely beautiful, her face smooth as a peeled egg. Both Emperor Yongye and Li Qing gasped upon seeing this. They had both seen Feng Bailing¡¯s face before. Before she was sent to the Other Manor, her face was covered with unsightly blemishes, which led Dongfang Li to strongly desire to call off their engagement. For this face, even many Imperial Physicians visited the Princess¡¯ Mansion, all to no avail. Yet the Feng Bailing before them was like a different person, even Emperor Yongye, who had seen countless women, found it striking. Feng Bailing had inherited Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s fine looks, and with eyes that captivated, her aura had changed drastically from before. Now, she indeed rivaled Nalan Yan¡¯er. Seventh Brother indeed threw away a pearl and picked up a fish eye. Emperor Yongye silently sighed in his heart. ¡°The Medical Buddha¡¯s skills are unparalleled, and my face is the best proof.¡± These words completely dispelled Emperor Yongye¡¯s doubts. ¡°Good child, it¡¯s been hard on you to hide such a big secret. If there really is such a person as the Medical Buddha, having her would be a fortune for Great Chu. If she ever comes to Great Chu, you must introduce her to me.¡± For divine doctors, from ancient times to the present, from kings to common folks, everyone tries very hard to win their favors. Emperor Yongye was no exception. Who doesn¡¯t fall ill, even emperors fear death. Knowing that Feng Bailing was the sole disciple of the Medical Buddha, Emperor Yongye looked at her with added warmth. ¡°Since your master is so powerful, what about Dugu¡¯s leg?¡± Emperor Yongye, while helping Feng Bailing up, suddenly remembered something and his face changed. It¡¯s no wonder Dugu Wu agreed to marry Feng Bailing, could it be he knew she had a Medical Buddha behind her? Chapter 76 - 76 76 I Sold Your Dad ?Chapter 76: Chapter 76: I Sold Your Dad Chapter 76: Chapter 76: I Sold Your Dad ¡°If my master were to take action, I believe there would be no problems. However, my master has been detached from worldly affairs for a long time. It¡¯s rare for her to go out and it may take three to five years for her to come again.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s words eased Emperor Yongye¡¯s anxiety. ¡°Father Emperor, you must severely punish Feng Bailing. It would be best to confine her to the Cold Palace for three to five years to serve as a warning to others!¡± As Emperor Yongye walked out of Ciyuan Palace, Dongfang Li was waiting outside. Upon seeing Emperor Yongye, he hurriedly spoke. See how she would still marry Dugu Wu! Emperor Yongye glanced at Dongfang Li, feeling increasingly displeased with his once beloved son. Feng Bailing regained her appearance but earnestly requested Emperor Yongye not to spread the news, saying she did not wish to stir up more trouble. Emperor Yongye thought it made sense; now that Feng Bailing was as beautiful as a heavenly fairy, if Seventh were to find out, he would surely feel dissatisfied and cause a commotion. This blind fool, forsaking a beautiful apprentice of the Medical Buddha. Otherwise, he could have been the Medical Buddha¡¯s son-in-law, which would have brought glory to the Royal Family. He insists on being smitten with the foster daughter of a pretty-faced son-in-law, which is utterly nonsensical. Emperor Yongye felt a stifling sensation in his chest and pointed at Dongfang Li, rebuking him sharply. ¡°Useless thing, commanding the Imperial Army for just one day and already bending the law for personal gain. If it weren¡¯t for you, how would Xiao Jiu have been injured. Punish you to clean the Cold Palace by yourself, remove all snakes, mice, and pests, and if there¡¯s any oversight, you will live in the Cold Palace hereafter!¡± Emperor Yongye stormed off, leaving Dongfang Li sprawled on the ground, dumbfounded. What did he do to make Father Emperor so angry? Inside Ciyuan Palace, the Empress Dowager, after taking a special medicine, fell into a deep sleep. Dugu Wu sat by her side, his gaze flickering as he saw Feng Bailing enter lightly. ¡°Did the Emperor summon you?¡± Dugu Wu was well aware of Emperor Yongye¡¯s temper. Feng Bailing was previously known as Feng the Unencumbered, returning after four years with exceptional medical skills. Not to mention the naturally suspicious emperor, even he felt puzzled. ¡°I asked about the Empress Dowager¡¯s condition. Thank you for last night. I heard you captured Feng Zhanlian?¡± Feng Bailing did not mention the Medical Buddha but sincerely thanked Dugu Wu. She had learned from Feng Wan about last night¡¯s events, how Feng Zhanlian, that old beast, had intended to sell Xiao Li. A ferocity tinted her brow and eyes. Her eyes, naturally beautiful, shimmered brilliantly due to her anger, drawing involuntary glances. ¡°I had Lu Yin sell him.¡± Dugu Wu picked up a tea cup, nonchalantly sipped his tea. When he discovered Feng Zhanlian intended to sell Feng Xiaoli to the lowest brothel, Dugu Wu almost twisted Feng Zhanlian¡¯s head off. That old scoundrel! Even though half a day had passed since the incident, whenever Dugu Wu thought about it, a thick murderous aura surrounded him, suffocating those nearby. He had thought Feng Bailing would be shocked, cry, or plead, after all, that man was her father. Yet, Feng Bailing blinked her eyes and curiously asked. ¡°Where did you sell him? Make sure it¡¯s far enough.¡± ¡°...¡± Dugu Wu paused in his tea-drinking. ¡°Shanyin Inn.¡± Dugu Wu reluctantly spat out three words. The corners of Feng Bailing¡¯s mouth twitched as she struggled to maintain her composure, trying not to burst into laughter. During those years she begged on the streets, she heard some news that secluded girls couldn¡¯t hear, such as Shanyin Inn, which, in more common modern language, was a male brothel. It is located in the picturesque Biluo Mountain, run by a mysterious woman with considerable means. Rumor has it that the female owner was once a ruthless bandit, a formidable character, who retired and opened Shanyin Inn. Shanyin Inn specifically caters to wealthy and leisurely noblewomen, who wear masks, indulge in the pleasures of wealth, spending large sums to frivolously play with the men in the inn. Although Feng Zhanlian¡¯s right hand is disabled, preventing him from writing, and he is not young anymore, he has lived a life of luxury in the Princess¡¯ Mansion over the years, maintaining his appearance exceptionally well, making him a strikingly handsome middle-aged man. Such attractiveness makes him a highly sought-after commodity in Shanyin Inn. It¡¯s no wonder, Dugu Wu ¨C offend him and suffer both physically and mentally, and you¡¯ll also end up ruined. Feng Bailing wore a smile, but it was a cold smile that chilled to the bone. The father-daughter bond between Feng Zhanlian and her had already been exhausted in their past lives. She could not forget how she was beaten until her skin burst open and was thrown out of the Princess¡¯ Mansion like a dead dog. She could not forget how his anger led to the death of Dongfang Lianhua, and after the funeral, he immediately celebrated and promoted Aunt Xue to his legal wife. What¡¯s more, she could not forget how Feng Luochen, in an attempt to defend her, offended Dongfang Li and was imprisoned. Feng Zhanlian, as her father, not only did not endeavor to help him but took the opportunity to sell all the fields and houses of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. That man was nothing but a maggot clinging to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, sucking dry its marrow. Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes grew cold ¨C she even knew about that place, had she been there too? Feng Bailing instructed a palace maid to find a wide-leaved potted plant, a common decorative panda plant in the palace. ¡°You and I cannot leave the palace, this task must be handed over to Lu Yin. The juice of the panda plant is highly toxic; once taken, it causes severe tongue pain, rendering one unable to speak. Make sure to hand it to Lu Yin, and don¡¯t let Feng Zhanlian scream his throat raw.¡± ¡°...¡± Dugu Wu silently took the flower pot, directing Feng Wan to send it out of the palace. ¡°There¡¯s another matter. Prince Wu, as good as selling my father, shouldn¡¯t the profit be shared too?¡± Feng Bailing spoke in a tone suggesting money was open for negotiation. Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes deepened. They say women are cold; he thought Nalan Yan¡¯er was the champion, but seeing now, Nalan Yan¡¯er isn¡¯t even qualified to carry shoes for Feng Bailing. However, this kind of temperament indeed captures Dugu Wu¡¯s heart. After all, he doesn¡¯t want to get entangled with her. The colder she is now, the less she will trouble him in the future. After a year, they would part ways. His previous companions were too useless; none lasted a few days after marrying into the Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. If it were Feng Bailing, maybe she would finally meet her match among those demons of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. With a flick of his hand, Dugu Wu dropped an object into Feng Bailing¡¯s hand. The object was cool and smooth to the touch; Feng Bailing saw it and her hand trembled with greed. In her hand was half of a Jade Pendant; she had used this item as a mortgage in the gambling house managed by Chun Liu. How did it end up in Dugu Wu¡¯s hand? Feng Bailing felt somewhat guilty. ¡°If you make another mistake, I will not let it go lightly.¡± Dugu Wu walked a few steps, then turned back, ¡°Xiao Li said you could tell monkey stories?¡± He really didn¡¯t want to sing to put Feng Xiaoli to sleep anymore. Without further words, Feng Bailing wrote down more than a dozen chapters of Journey to the West for Dugu Wu. ¡°Did you also hear this story from a traveling merchant?¡± An hour later, Dugu Wu already held a stack of papers in his hand. Feng Bailing¡¯s handwriting was not bad to look at, just more uninhibited than the average woman¡¯s, reflecting her personality. The story she wrote, at first glance, appeared bizarre, but upon closer inspection, even he, an adult, found it entertaining. ¡°This is called Journey to the West. You should tell it to Xiaojin after you leave the palace, to strengthen the father-son bond. Xiaojin seems to like you a lot, though he¡¯s also scared of you. This story was told to me by my teacher, who is the renowned Medical Buddha.¡± Chapter 77 - 77 77 The Woman Boss Who Is Like a Wolf and a ?Chapter 77: Chapter 77: The Woman Boss Who Is Like a Wolf and a Tiger Chapter 77: Chapter 77: The Woman Boss Who Is Like a Wolf and a Tiger The Empress Dowager¡¯s severe illness had temporarily subsided, yet the Princess¡¯ Mansion was turned upside down. Yesterday night, Aunt Xue devised a plan for Feng Zhanlian to take advantage of the rainy, dark night and sell Feng Xiaoli off. That night, to prevent any leaks, Feng Zhanlian personally took several house servants to carry out the task. After a whole night passed and dawn broke, Aunt Xue got up, drew her eyebrows in the mirror, and applied brilliant lipstick, feeling quite pleased with herself. Feng Bailing and her daughter¡¯s trip to the palace this time would surely be their last. The little illegitimate brat in the household had also been dealt with; from now on, she called the shots in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Who could have known that by the afternoon, Feng Zhanlian had not yet returned. Aunt Xue sensed that something had gone wrong. She ordered someone to inquire in the east wing, where it was said that Chun Liu had taken Feng Xiaoli out early in the morning. Mrs. Su was indeed in the east wing, but when asked about Feng Zhanlian, Mrs. Su claimed complete ignorance, saying that last night the master hadn¡¯t come to the east wing at all. Even the seven or eight house servants who went to handle the matter had disappeared without a trace, and their families had all come to complain in front of Aunt Xue. Aunt Xue was now truly panicked, and hastily summoned the broker who dealt with selling people to the Flower Hall for questioning. That woman was still fuming about the matter, complaining that the Princess¡¯ Mansion was not true to their word, and that she had waited outside the mansion all night, not even catching a glimpse of Feng Zhanlian. Upon hearing this, Aunt Xue¡¯s knees went weak, and she almost fainted. ¡°Sister-in-law, what has happened to you?¡± Just then, Feng Zhan Tian passed by and, seeing Aunt Xue in her fragile state, quickly supported her. He had been so scared by the incident at the Medicine Shop these past days that he didn¡¯t dare make any rash moves and had been staying in the mansion, idle. When he saw the beautiful and pale Aunt Xue in his arms, her eyes brimming with tears and her delicate body trembling non-stop as she sobbed softly, Feng Zhan Tian felt a warmth in his heart. He had always been envious of Feng Zhanlian; not only did he marry a princess, but he also took Aunt Xue, such a ravishing beauty. Back in the village, he had also lusted after Aunt Xue¡¯s looks, but she had been taken by Feng Zhanlian first. Today, touching her soft, boneless hand and her slender waist that one could nearly encircle with a hand, Feng Zhan Tian felt his body go half limp. ¡°Second brother, your elder brother is missing, you must go out and find him.¡± Aunt Xue pleaded. Feng Zhan Tian led the house servants of the Princess¡¯ Mansion to search the city, through every street and alley, teahouse, and tavern, as well as asking around the staff members that Feng Zhanlian usually got along with, one by one, but they found no trace of Feng Zhanlian. ¡°Go and inquire further; if there¡¯s news of the master, report back immediately.¡± Feng Zhanlian stepped into a tavern, wiping the sweat from his forehead. Behind him, a black-boxed horse carriage happened to pass by. The person sitting in front of the carriage wore a hat, revealing only a smooth chin. That person glanced at the house servants from the Princess¡¯ Mansion, with a strange smirk on the corner of their mouth. Once the carriage left the city, it headed towards Biluo Mountain outside of town. On the bumpy mountain road, Feng Zhanlian, who had been unconscious for a while in the carriage, woke up. Upon waking, he detected a foul smell, and found that both his hands and feet, even his mouth, were bound. Last night, he led people to take Feng Xiaoli, but what happened after that...? Feng Zhanlian tried to recall, but his mind was blank. Suddenly, several bloody heads flashed through his mind, and his memory immediately became a blur. His eyes bulged with rage as he struggled frantically. Clang, Feng Zhanlian¡¯s head hit the hard side of the carriage, and he grunted and squawked. The carriage came to a stop, and the curtains were lifted; outside, the birds chirped amidst serene mountains, and the spring scenery was just right. A figure in grey, with a conical hat obscuring their face, dragged Feng Zhanlian out of the horse carriage. ¡°It¡¯s truly noisy, thankfully our young master foresaw this.¡± Lu Yin looked on with an icy gaze, having absolutely no sympathy for an old beast like Feng Zhanlian. With one hand, he clutched Feng Zhanlian¡¯s throat, silencing him, then took out a flask of liquor mixed with the juice of periwinkle leaves and poured it down Feng Zhanlian¡¯s throat. The spicy and stinging poison caused severe pain in Feng Zhanlian¡¯s tongue, as if molten iron had been poured down his throat, igniting a burning sensation. Discarded on the ground, he was then stuffed into a coarse hemp sack, and Lu Yin abandoned the horse carriage, heading up to Biluo Mountain. After who knows how long, Feng Zhanlian heard the sound of gurgling water, as if there were also voices and the music of strings and woodwinds. The sack was untied, and Feng Zhanlian heard a burst of chuckling laughter. First, a fragrant breeze wafted over, and he was brought into a splendidly opulent establishment. The floor was made of Han White Jade, the beams made of centuries-old Nanshan Pine, and even the luminous pearls were embedded in the walls. The mountain and river screen was the work of a great master from the previous dynasty. This Shanyin Inn lived up to its reputation as a lavish brothel; even the tables and chairs exhibited an extravagant opulence. ¡°The sun rises from the west, I¡¯ve seen thirteen, fourteen-year-olds selling themselves to bury their parents, but I¡¯ve never seen a three or four-decade aged piece of pickled meat come out to sell himself.¡± A woman of a mature age appeared before his eyes. Her skin was slightly dark and her features were frivolously expressive. She was not very beautiful, but she possessed a distinct wild allure and did not resemble a woman from Chu Country, with her taller and fuller figure. Adorned in a flamboyant, rose-red tight-fitting blouse, covered by a lake-green floral skirt, gold threads wrapped around her waist like serpents. Hairpins of green and red jade and agate adorned her hair. This woman¡¯s figure was like a fully ripened melon, so alluring and succulent to men, it was deadly. This was the proprietress of Shanyin Inn, Lady Nan Feng. Although she looked young, she was actually over forty, just very well-preserved to the point it was not obvious. She had heard someone brought in a ¡®product¡¯, and upon hearing his age, she felt a bit disdainful. But when the sack was opened, out rolled a man with a tall, lithe frame, fair skin. The man had a handsome beard, and his facial features were refined, exuding an air of scholarly grace. His delicate, tender skin seemed like it could ooze water upon a pinch. His legs, long and even his buttocks were more lifted than the average man¡¯s. What a find! He wore an expression of shock and his wide eyes conveyed pleading, which in Lady Nan Feng¡¯s experienced gaze, was incredibly tantalizing. ¡°Lady, am I right? Such fine goods, for just fifty taels of gold, buying him is a bargain.¡± Lu Yin¡¯s voice was in a low whisper. Upon hearing this, Feng Zhanlian felt as if he lost three parts of his soul and six parts of his spirit ¨C he suddenly realized; he had been sold! ¡°At this place, we inspect the merchandise before purchase. Someone, take him to bathe and change his clothes; I will personally inspect the goods,¡± Lady Nan Feng licked her lips. An hour later, Lu Yin, humming a tune, walked down Biluo Mountain with a spring in his step. In Ciyuan Palace, Dongfang Lianhua was accompanying the Empress Dowager for dinner. After the meal, she saw a palace maid hurry over and whisper into her ear. Feng Bailing recognized that the maid belonged to Noble Princess Consort Xiao¡¯s palace. Upon hearing the maid¡¯s message, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s face changed, looking dazed and disoriented. ¡°Ah Ling, your father¡¯s gone missing, last night...¡± Dongfang Lianhua had just started to speak when Feng Bailing suddenly let out a deep sigh, pulling Dongfang Lianhua to sit down. ¡°Mother, actually, I had a nightmare last night that terrified me. I dreamed that day when I returned to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Xiao Li being pushed into a well...¡± Chapter 78 - 78 78 Evil Will Be Met with Evil ?Chapter 78: Chapter 78: Evil Will Be Met with Evil Chapter 78: Chapter 78: Evil Will Be Met with Evil Feng Bailing recounted that ¡°dream¡± for half an hour, until the tea in both their cups had gone cold. Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s face was as pale as paper. ¡°Last night, Feng Zhanlian wanted to sell off Xiao Li. If it wasn¡¯t for Dugu Wu arriving in time, the one ¡®missing¡¯ would have been Xiao Li.¡± Feng Bailing clenched the teacup in her hand, looking down to hide the hatred in her eyes. Xiao Li was only three years old, yet they had tried to harm her over and over again; those people¡¯s hearts were even harder than stone. ¡°Ah Ling, what do you want Mother to do?¡± Dongfang Lianhua gripped her daughter¡¯s hand, her own was frighteningly cold, but there was no sign of retreat in her eyes. She had been gravely ill, as if reborn, and her trip to the Imperial Palace had made it clear to her that only the three of them, mother and daughters, were truly bonded by flesh and blood. Ah Ling was clearly speaking of a dream, but to Dongfang Lianhua, it felt as if she were living through it, a pain so intense she could hardly bear it. It was as if she had seen with her own eyes Xiao Li turn into a cold corpse, Ah Ling beaten until she was a bloody mess, her own body not yet cold in death, Luochen dying in a land of bitter cold, and the Princess¡¯ Mansion ruined overnight. ¡°Mother, believe me, whoever asks you, you must say you don¡¯t know. Dugu Wu knows his limits; he won¡¯t kill Feng Zhanlian, at most he¡¯ll make Feng Zhanlian suffer a little. Compared to the suffering we¡¯ve endured over the years, what is that really?¡± An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, is just the cycle of karmic retribution! Dongfang Lianhua nodded in agreement, not voicing any objection this time. Over at the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Zhan Tian had been searching all day to no avail for any trace of Feng Zhanlian. Aunt Xue told the matter to the old lady, who cried and alongside Aunt Xue, wiped her tears while she talked. ¡°I have already asked someone in the palace to plead with the Princess, to ask His Majesty to send people to search for Zhanlian¡¯s whereabouts, but there has been no response from the Princess.¡± ¡°That woman is unreliable, looking down on us, mother and son. How can a living person just disappear in the mansion, unless taken by a ghost? There have been many things happening in our mansion recently; we should find a Taoist priest to perform a ritual.¡± The thought of the ghost in the east wing turned the old lady¡¯s face a ghastly shade of pale. Aunt Xue agreed verbally and returned to the south wing. Since being brutally beaten by Dongfang Li that day, Feng Xiangxue had been in low spirits for a while, but in recent days, the wounds on her face had started to heal, and hearing the news that Dongfang Li had become the Commander of the Imperial Army, her mood had somewhat improved. Aunt Xue found her wearing a joyful expression, adorning a newly made hair cover when she returned. The injuries on her face could be covered with rouge, but the torn-off half of her hair could not grow back in a short period, so this hair cover was made by Feng Xiangxue ordering the nanny to force several maids to cut off their long hair. ¡°Mother, look, is the spring dress I designed suitable? It¡¯s this year¡¯s most fashionable fabric and style from our textile shop. I had Uncle make it for me one month ahead of schedule. Ruoyan couldn¡¯t even get it and had to settle for the second best. In a few days, classes will start at Yuxiu Academy, and I must be the most dazzling one there.¡± Aunt Xue looked closely at her daughter; she wore a smoky purple wide-sleeved silk dress, embroidered with magnolias around the cuffs, adding a sense of gentility. Her long hair, now covered with a hair accessory, looked thick and jet-black, tied with a purple ribbon into the most fashionable hairstyle, which made her lovelier than the flowers. ¡°Your father¡¯s whereabouts are unknown, and you are someone with a marriage contract; restrain yourself from now on, and remember, you must not have any more interactions with the students from the Imperial Academy.¡± Aunt Xue regarded her daughter, who was equally outstanding in both looks and talent, with a mixture of pride and wistfulness. Yuxiu Academy is adjacent to the Imperial Academy and each year during the exams, many talented young men from the Imperial Academy would come to watch and cheer. Feng Xiangxue was the most popular among them. Although she would become a concubine, with her daughter¡¯s grace and beauty, Dongfang Li would soon promote her to his main wife. What does it matter if Feng Bailing is a Princess Consort? Marrying a man crippled and stripped of power, she is destined to be no match for her Xiangxue. ¡°Mother, you needn¡¯t worry, the Seventh Prince is now the Commander of the Imperial Army. Once he¡¯s free, I will go seek his help to deploy troops to find father. As for Feng Bailing, I truly hope she won¡¯t be able to make it in time for the Yuxiu Academy assessment, or else I won¡¯t be able to scoff at her failure.¡± Feng Xiangxue had waited for such a long time, and finally, the Yuxiu Academy had started its new term. At the time when peach blossoms turned pink and pear blossoms white, inns throughout Chu City would be filled with female students from all over the country, all coming to attend the enrollment of Yuxiu Academy. A few years ago, Feng Xiangxue, as a commoner, had participated in the assessments and was admitted into Yuxiu Academy with top three placement due to her outstanding performance. ¡°This time she has cured the Empress Dowager. I heard that the Empress Dowager dotes on her even more. If she returns to Yuxiu Academy...¡± Aunt Xue uttered anxiously. ¡°Mother, set your mind at rest. I¡¯ve heard that this year¡¯s assessment is harder than ever before. In previous years there was only one round of examination, and female students only had to pass that one to get in. This year, they say there are three rounds, and one must pass all three to be admitted to Yuxiu Academy. Moreover, one of the rounds will be personally proctored by the Dean, who is very strict. This time, Feng Bailing is certain to be eliminated, and our bets will surely pay off.¡± Feng Xiangxue caressed her soft and smooth hair, delighting in the misfortunes of others. ¡°The brat from the east wing has been seldom seen recently; someone should keep an eye on her. I always feel that there¡¯s something off about that brat¡ªshe doesn¡¯t die even when thrown into a well in the dead of winter. Your father¡¯s disappearance must have been her doing.¡± Aunt Xue said, touching her chest. It seemed as if any matter that associated with Feng Xiaoli never turned out well. ¡°Mother, you¡¯re overthinking it. What trouble could a mere child cause?¡± Feng Xiangxue dismissed the concern casually. After the rainy night incident, Feng Xiaoli, being a child, had slept through it and, upon waking up, remembered nothing. Aside from food, Feng Xiaoli recently found another passion¡ªattending the Imperial Academy. Even though the old men at the Imperial Academy were a bit wordy and always posed her questions when she wanted to snooze, Brother Xiaojin was there, and as the phrase in the books went, it was a feast for the eyes! So early in the morning, for once, she didn¡¯t laze about in bed. After Chun Liu helped her wash up and dress, she put on her downsized child student¡¯s outfit, packed her small case, and wobbled her way to school. Upon arriving at the Imperial Academy¡¯s gate, Feng Xiaoli rubbed her little short legs, propped her chin on her hands, and sat on the steps. When 7 a.m. came, just like always, Dugu Xiaojin arrived at the doors of the Imperial Academy carrying his heavy case. Seeing Feng Xiaoli, he paused for a moment. The little thing looked at him with a pitiable gaze. Dugu Xiaojin could only pick up her case and also scoop her up on the way to the Heavenly Class. ¡°Brother Xiaojin, why are all your steps the same length?¡± Feng Xiaoli gazed at Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s walking stride, as even as if measured with a ruler. ¡°Brother Xiaojin, why don¡¯t you breathe heavily after climbing so many steps?¡± ¡°Brother Xiaojin...¡± Finally arriving at the Heavenly Class, Dugu Xiaojin put down the incessantly chattering Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Brother Xiaojin, what¡¯s in your case?¡± Feng Xiaoli¡¯s sharp eyes caught a glimpse of a pair of golden eyes peeking out from Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s case. Chapter 79 - 79 79 The Scheming and Overprotective Older ?Chapter 79: Chapter 79: The Scheming and Overprotective Older Brother Chapter 79: Chapter 79: The Scheming and Overprotective Older Brother Dugu Xiaojin glanced at the cage, and a fluffy little head popped out, caught in the act. Bai Shan? Dugu Xiaojin revealed a hint of panic. Bai Shan was the little wild wolf he had rescued from the Imperial Palace. It was mistaken for a dog and raised in the palace, only to be injured by the spiteful Dongfang Xiu with a pellet. If it weren¡¯t for Dugu Xiaojin encountering Feng Bailing and saving it, it wouldn¡¯t have survived. Because it ran very fast, like a flash of lightning, Dugu Xiaojin named it Bai Shan. Dugu Xiaojin hurried to hide little Baishan. ¡°What a cute doggy.¡± Feng Xiaoli¡¯s glossy big eyes were fixed on little Baishan, wanting to touch Bai Shan. Little Baishan¡¯s wolf fur all bristled. After recovering from its injuries, its beastly nature returned. It was a noble breed, and aside from its young master, nobody else could even touch it, let alone get close. Right as little Baishan was about to lose its temper, you¡¯re the actual dog. With a glance from Dugu Xiaojin, it stiffened and stopped, wagging its tail and lying down. Fine, be a dog then. ¡°Here, have some date paste cake.¡± Feng Xiaoli handed over a piece of date paste cake, and little Baishan¡¯s gaze appeared aggrieved, unhappily accepting the cake with a paw, constantly hypnotizing itself that it was a delicious bone! ¡°Brother Xiaojin, Da Chun¡¯s house also has pets, Dahua, Erhua, and Sanhua; they¡¯re both cute and delicious, I¡¯ll take you there someday.¡± Feng Xiaoli said proudly. ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, you¡¯ve got some nerve bringing a beast pet to the Imperial Academy!¡± A pompous voice rang out. Feng Xiaoli pouted; without looking back, she knew it was the annoying Dongfang Jin again. They both have Jin in their names, yet Dongfang Jin is so unpleasant. Some wealthy families in Chu City did keep beast pets. Small pets could play with children while large ones could protect their masters. There was a wide variety of creatures, including birds and four-legged beasts. Especially among the few who had activated the Wenhua Seal, rumors said they could control animals and employ them for their purposes. Of course, those with such capabilities were rare. For the child students of the Imperial Academy, it was only something they read about in books. It was not common for someone like Dugu Xiaojin to keep a wolf, much less to have a wolf cub so obedient to him. Dugu Xiaojin was the picture of composure. ¡°Where¡¯s the dog...¡± Dongfang Jin was taken aback, rubbing his eyes. Where had the little creature, who had just been nibbling on cakes on the desk, gone? ¡°What are you standing around for? Go find it.¡± Fuming, Dongfang Jin ordered several child students by his side to search, but not a single dog hair was found, even when the teacher arrived. He could only sit down sullenly. ¡°Yesterday, I asked each of you to copy the third chapter of the Law of Chu. Dugu Xiaojin, please collect them.¡± Today¡¯s class was still taught by Mr. Guo from yesterday, and seeing him, Feng Xiaoli began to feel sleepy again. Drowsily, Dugu Xiaojin walked up to her desk, and Feng Xiaoli looked on clueless. As a foodie, she was familiar with cooking but had never heard of homework! Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s handsome brows furrowed, a helpless gesture as he unfolded and smoothed out a paper. It turned out he had transcribed a copy for Xiaoli and handed it in together; he really didn¡¯t want to see Xiaoli¡¯s little hands getting slapped red and swollen. He bent down to collect the other child students¡¯ papers. After collecting a full round, just about to hand them to Mr. Guo, Dongfang Jin abruptly stood up, pointing at Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°Mr. Guo, Da Chun didn¡¯t copy the Law of Chu, it was Dugu Xiaojin who copied it for him, both of them should be punished!¡± He was exuding self-satisfaction. He was inexplicably beaten with a ruler yesterday, while Feng Xiaoli, who was sleeping, was praised instead. Dongfang Jin was very dissatisfied. Mr. Guo¡¯s brows furrowed into a ¡°´¨¡± character, as he looked towards Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°Xiaojin, is what he¡¯s saying true?¡± Dugu Xiaojin pulled out two sheets of paper and presented them to Mr. Guo. As Mr. Guo examined both homework assignments, his brow furrowed even deeper. Dongfang Jin¡¯s face was full of triumph, thinking that this time, Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s punishment with the ruler was a sure thing. ¡°Dongfang Jin, how can you defame your classmate? The homework of Xiaojin and Da Chun is clearly written by each of them, Da Chun¡¯s handwriting matches exactly the one on his nameplate.¡± Mr. Guo¡¯s face showed a headache. What¡¯s wrong with Dongfang Jin? He couldn¡¯t answer the question yesterday and today he¡¯s falsely accusing a classmate; this child is really too unruly. Dongfang Jin was at a loss. ¡°I saw it with my own eyes!¡± Dongfang Jin still didn¡¯t believe it; upon examining the two sheets of paper, the handwriting was indeed completely different, it couldn¡¯t have been written by the same person. ¡°You¡¯re still being obstinate!¡± Mr. Guo grew furious, and without further discussion, slapped Dongfang Jin with ten more ruler strikes. ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, you just wait!¡± After enduring twenty ruler strikes in two days, Dongfang Jin¡¯s left hand had swollen like a steamed bun. He harbored deep hatred for Dugu Xiaojin and after the lessons, he sneered coldly at Dugu Xiaojin and stormed off in a huff. After leaving the Imperial Academy with Feng Xiaoli, Dugu Xiaojin saw a horse carriage parked not far away. The carriage bore the family crest of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. A complex look flashed in his eyes; before school today, the house steward had told him that after classes, the Princess Consort Shun intended to take him to the palace to visit the Empress Dowager. He didn¡¯t like the Imperial Palace, where people were respectful to his face but always whispered behind his back, something he could feel. But going to the palace meant he had the chance to see his father, whom he hadn¡¯t seen for several days. ¡°I¡¯m going to visit an elder, you go back first.¡± Dugu Xiaojin saw the Princess Consort Shun looking over and whispered to Feng Xiaoli. Feng Xiaoli cocked her head, looking at Dugu Xiaojin. Visiting elders would mean there would be many delicacies; why did Brother Xiaojin not seem happy? She thought for a moment, reached into her trunk, and felt around for a piece of osmanthus cake wrapped up nicely, which Chun Liu had given her as a snack. It was tied with a beautiful butterfly knot, and she hadn¡¯t wanted to eat it just yet. ¡°Brother Xiaojin, my mother says you must not visit someone empty-handed. You take this osmanthus cake that Xiao Li loves; the elders will surely like it.¡± After she said that, she glanced around and upon spotting Chun Liu¡¯s figure, she happily ran over to her. The Princess Consort Shun was already getting impatient. Hearing the noise, she turned to look this way and just saw Feng Xiaoli¡¯s retreating figure. ¡°That kid looks somewhat familiar?¡± The Princess Consort Shun murmured to herself. When she saw Dugu Xiaojin, her expression turned stern. She did not like Dugu Xiaojin. This child was as silent as a mute and had even killed... yet the Empress Dowager insisted on seeing him. Carrying the same ¡®Jin¡¯ character in the name, the Crown Princess Consort¡¯s Dongfang Jin was completely different. That child was smart and sweet-talking, always receiving rewards from the Empress Dowager on every encounter. Unlike Dugu Xiaojin, who just stood there like a block of wood. ¡°Once we¡¯re in the palace, behave yourself. Just nod or shake your head, that¡¯s enough.¡± With an apparent disdain on her face, the Princess Consort Shun instructed, and Dugu Xiaojin, not saying a word, bowed his head and stored away the piece of osmanthus cake given by Feng Xiaoli. Chapter 80 - 80 80 Touch Her Kid and Youre Dead ?Chapter 80: Chapter 80: Touch Her Kid and You¡¯re Dead! Chapter 80: Chapter 80: Touch Her Kid and You¡¯re Dead! After spring began, myriad flowers blossomed in the imperial garden, their fragrance drifting everywhere. Princess Consort Shun brought Dugu Xiaojin to the Imperial Palace and upon hearing about the Yangxin Pavilion by the Empress Dowager Lake, she took Dugu Xiaojin to the imperial garden. As they were walking through the courtyard, a bullet suddenly flew from a hidden spot. Dugu Xiaojin appeared indifferent, not bothering to dodge; he knew that dodging would only lead to more teasing. When the bullet hit Dugu Xiaojin, a series of giggling laughter could be heard, and then Dongfang Xiu, donning a peach-red palace dress with two little braids, sprang out from the throng of flowers, followed by a nanny and two or three second-class palace maids. Seeing Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s forehead turning slightly red from the hit, and his reluctance even to rub it, those palace maids all suppressed their smiles. ¡°Little ancestor, you should take a rest after playing with a few more bullets. If your hand gets tired, the Empress Dowager will surely feel sorry for you.¡± The nanny said this as she took out a few bullets and stuffed them into Dongfang Xiu¡¯s hand, chuckling merrily. Those bullets were wrapped in copper, and if hit hard, could cause internal injuries. Upon seeing Dongfang Xiu, Princess Consort Shun said with a smiling face, ¡°Imperial Eldest Granddaughter, you seem even more distinguished now than a few days ago. When you grow up, you¡¯ll surely be as mesmerizing as the Crown Prince.¡± ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, I heard you are about to have a stepmother soon. With a stepmother comes a stepfather, and your father will no longer want you.¡± Dongfang Xiu ignored Princess Consort Shun¡¯s flattery and made a face at Dugu Xiaojin. Suddenly, Dugu Xiaojin raised his head, his gaze terrifying. Dongfang Xiu jumped in fright; Dugu Xiaojin had always been like a wooden person, a target for beating and scolding, and now he dared to glare at her. Angered, she picked up the slingshot and aimed at Dugu Xiaojin, ready to hit him again. ¡°Do not bully him.¡± A figure strode quickly over, protecting Dugu Xiaojin as if he were a little chick. Feng Bailing had come to find Dugu Xiaojin upon hearing of his arrival, only to witness this scene. ¡°Princess Consort, are you just going to let Xiaojin be bullied?¡± Several bystanders, including Xiaojin¡¯s grandmother, Princess Consort Shun, watched without reprimanding Dongfang Xiu. Feng Bailing was in a rage after seeing the swelling on Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s forehead. ¡°It¡¯s just children horsing around, no real harm done. Commandery Princess, you¡¯re being a bit too petty.¡± Princess Consort Shun saw that Feng Bailing didn¡¯t salute her when she approached and secretly cursed Feng Baliing for having no manners, giving her the cold shoulder. ¡°And who are you to interfere? My grandfather is the Emperor, and my great-grandmother is the Empress Dowager. How dare a mere Commandery Princess meddle with me.¡± Dongfang Xiu wasn¡¯t at all impressed by any Commandery Princess, and seeing her attempt to block her, Dongfang Xiu pulled her slingshot to the full and aimed at Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes. Although she was young, she had been taught literature and martial arts with Dongfang Jin since childhood, not lacking in strength. This shot was full force; had it hit, it could blind someone. Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s expression changed abruptly, and he clenched his fists tightly. He could tolerate being bullied, but he wouldn¡¯t allow anyone to bully Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes turned cold as well. This child was barely three years old, yet her strikes were malicious. What would become of her when she grew up? As the bullet was about to hit Feng Bailing, she shifted her thoughts, and under the influence of the seventh sense, the bullet suddenly veered off course. With a whoosh, it hit a hornet¡¯s nest hanging high up in the tree branches. After the start of spring, it was the prime season for the breeding of wasps. The wasp nest they built was high, and the managing eunuchs had not yet managed to knock it down when Dongfang Jin¡¯s bullet ignited the situation. The wasp nest swayed a few times, then with a thud, it smashed down on the head of Princess Consort Shun, unleashing a ¡°dark cloud¡± of swarming wasps. Buzzing buzzing buzzing¡ª¡ª Princess Consort Shun screamed, and hundreds of irate wasps assaulted her mercilessly, targeting her face and arms without reservations. Dongfang Xiu and the nannies along with some palace maids were also in proximity to the wasp nest, plunging into chaos. The wasps stung at the sight of people, and even though Feng Bailing and Dugu Xiaojin were not standing far, as the wasps were about to swarm them, Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyes suddenly flashed. The wasps, seemingly struck by a sudden reprimand, veered away with a flick of their tails, turning back to pursue Dongfang Xiu and others. The queen bee, in particular, chased after Dongfang Xiu relentlessly, stinging her on the behind. Cries of children swiftly spread throughout the imperial garden. ¡°Xiaojin, if anyone bullies you or makes you feel aggrieved in the future, tell me. With me around, no matter if they¡¯re old or young, lowly or noble, no one can bully my Xiaojin.¡± Feng Bailing, however, remained calm and composed, pulling Dugu Xiaojin aside to the edge of the lake and taking out a bottle of iodine. First, he disinfected Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s forehead, then applied a growth factor ointment which quickly reduced the swelling after just a few breaths. Dugu Xiaojin remained still, joy and shyness flickering in his beautiful eyes. It was the first time someone had stood up for him when he was bullied and the first time someone had bandaged his wounds. He was a sensible child, aware that he was only adopted, and he never told his father about the ostracism and bullying in fear of causing his already injured father more trouble. The woman before him was the first person to show him concern. He felt so happy to be cared for by someone. Nalan Yan¡¯er and several princes and princess consorts who had come to visit the Empress Dowager arrived too, with Dugu Wu trailing at the end of the group. Upon seeing the scene, Nalan Yan¡¯er threw herself into the swarm of wasps to protect her daughter, her eyes conveying helplessness. Dugu Wu looked on with disapproval, and with a sweep of his sleeve, the wasps fell to the ground, dead. Several princes and princess consorts looked on as if watching a spectacle. Many present had sustained serious injuries, with Princess Consort Shun being the most injured from the wasp nest impact, followed by a few palace maids and nannies. Dongfang Xiu¡¯s face and behind were swollen from multiple stings, causing her to weep loudly at the slightest touch. Several imperial physicians from the Imperial Hospital rushed to diagnose the situation and seeing that Feng Bailing and Dugu Xiaojin were unharmed, Dugu Wu breathed a sigh of relief. Nalan Yan¡¯er glanced at Feng Bailing and Dugu Xiaojin, who had not a single injury on their faces, unlike Dongfang Xiu, whose face and behind had suffered. Her heart ached for her daughter, a lump forming in her throat as she coldly said, ¡°Feng Bailing, when the children are causing trouble, why don¡¯t you help?¡± Between the lines, she implied that Feng Bailing was to blame for not looking after Dongfang Xiu. ¡°With the Emperor and Empress Dowager supporting the Imperial Eldest Granddaughter, even if I had ten times the courage, I wouldn¡¯t dare interfere with her affairs.¡± Feng Bailing met Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s angry gaze head-on. At that moment, Dugu Xiaojin suddenly grabbed Feng Bailing¡¯s hand and stepped back behind her, his body trembling uncontrollably. Chapter 81 - 81 81 The Second Pair of Heterochromia ?Chapter 81: Chapter 81 The Second Pair of Heterochromia Chapter 81: Chapter 81 The Second Pair of Heterochromia Feng Bailing also noticed the change in Xiaojin¡¯s emotions. Does this child dislike cats? Dongfang Jin approached and seeing the state his sister Dongfang Xiu was in, he said angrily, ¡°Who bullied Xiu Xiu? Dugu Xiaojin, was it you? My sister kindly wanted to play with you, and you dare to bully her!¡± Dongfang Jin and his sister were close in age to Dugu Xiaojin. Dongfang Jin really disliked Dugu Xiaojin, but Dongfang Xiu liked him very much and always wanted to find opportunities to get close to Xiaojin. However, Xiaojin suffered from gynophobia; during their first meeting, he even injured his sister. Dongfang Jin¡¯s face was full of arrogance, and he was about to push and shove Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°Imperial Eldest Grandson, watch your words.¡± Dugu Wu, who had been quiet until now, his eyes darkened, and Dongfang Jin got a fright and quickly hid behind Nalan Yan¡¯er. ¡°The behavior of the Imperial Eldest Granddaughter is improper, bringing harm to herself and others. The nanny in charge of her upbringing and several palace maids are by her side, yet did not intervene, which amounts to neglect of duty. They should rightfully be executed by caning.¡± Dugu Wu spoke indifferently. The nanny and several palace maids were so frightened that they turned pale and their legs went weak as they knelt to the ground. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, save your servants.¡± ¡°Prince Wu, Nanny Zhang is Xiu Xiu¡¯s wet nurse.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er wanted to plead for mercy. Dugu Wu placed his palms on his knees, his slender fingers gently tapping on his knees, his eyes growing cold as if covered with a layer of frost. ¡°Drag them out, execute them.¡± The Empress Dowager came over, supported by Dongfang Lianhua. She had already heard at the Huxin Pavilion. Dongfang Xiu was playing with a slingshot in the palace, injuring several eunuchs and palace maids. Xiu Xiu was young, and it must have been those old servants that took advantage of her to bully others. Such servants cannot be kept. Nalan Yan¡¯er bit her lip feeling wronged, her gaze lowered. Beside her, Dongfang Jin saw his Queen Mother aggrieved and a flash of anger crossed the depths of his eyes. However, he didn¡¯t show it on his face; instead, he approached the Empress Dowager with a beaming smile and greeted her. ¡°Great-Grandmother, today at the Imperial Academy, I learned a new piece of legal text, and I¡¯ve come especially to recite it for you.¡± As he spoke, he recited a piece of legal text fluently, over five or six hundred words without missing a single one. The Empress Dowager, upon hearing, praised with a smile, ¡°Good child, you become smarter and more clever each day.¡± ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, today you also learned this piece of legal text, why not you recite it for Great-Grandmother as well?¡± Dongfang Jin provoked, looking towards Dugu Xiaojin. Dugu Xiaojin in the company of others, could hardly utter a complete sentence, let alone recite several hundred words. He was just waiting to see Dugu Xiaojin make a fool of himself. Dugu Xiaojin hung his head. Dugu Wu furrowed his brows, just about to speak up and excuse Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°Xiaojin, do you have a gift to bring to Great-Grandmother?¡± Beside him, Feng Bailing gently nudged Dugu Xiaojin; she had seen Xiaojin holding a handkerchief, hesitating for a long time. Dugu Xiaojin suddenly lifted his head, meeting Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes. In Feng Bailing¡¯s gaze, there was full encouragement. As if a strength had been poured into his heart, Dugu Xiaojin walked up to the Empress Dowager and took out a handkerchief. Wrapped inside the handkerchief was a piece of osmanthus cake. The Empress Dowager was startled; her eyes grew warm. Dugu Xiaojin and Dugu Wu had similar dispositions, rarely getting close to people. Every time he came to the Imperial Palace, he would always keep his distance. This was his first time taking the initiative to approach. They say affection skips a generation, and for two generations removed, surely the affection grows even deeper. In the eyes of the Empress Dowager, the stern-faced Dugu Xiaojin appeared just like Dugu Wu when he had first come to the palace. Aren¡¯t they father and son? The Empress Dowager, with tears in her eyes, took the osmanthus cake. ¡°I¡¯ve been having bitter tastes from medicine recently; osmanthus cake is my favorite, not easy to find this season. Xiaojin is thoughtful indeed, unlike your father, who comes to see me empty-handed each time and always wears a coffin face.¡± The Empress Dowager laughed heartily, evidently much happier than just now when Dongfang Jin recited the legal text. Dongfang Jin, seeing this, was so angered that his nose was almost crooked. Just a broken pastry meant for dogs, why is great-grandmother laughing so heartily. Coffin face? Dugu Xiaojin stealthily glanced at her father, who was keeping a straight face, indeed quite resembling one. Then, turning to look at the side, Feng Bailing had already burst into a chuckle, which earned her an extremely displeased glare from Dugu Wu. Perhaps influenced by Feng Bailing, she couldn¡¯t help cracking a smile too, feeling less intimidated by the Empress Dowager in her heart. She said in a low voice. ¡°Your Majesty, it is all thanks to the Queen Mother¡¯s good guidance.¡± The Empress Dowager was taken aback for a moment, then turned to Dugu Xiaojin with a face full of surprise. Dugu Wu had married three First Princess Consorts, but Dugu Xiaojin had never called any of them ¡®Queen Mother¡¯ in public before. ¡°Ah Wu, Ah Ling, come over here.¡± The Empress Dowager pulled Dugu Xiaojin to her side and beckoned Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu to approach; both of them strolled up to the Empress Dowager. ¡°Ah Ling, from now on, the care of Ah Wu and Xiaojin, father and son, is in your hands.¡± The Empress Dowager said earnestly, placing the hands of the father and son both into Feng Bailing¡¯s hands. Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes shone, and she took over their hands in stride. ¡°Rest assured, Empress Dowager, from now on, we are all one family.¡± Her smile made her beautiful eyes curve, feeling utterly delighted in her heart; if this happened a few more times, the third tier of the first aid kit would be unlocked. Dugu Wu had a dark face; in front of the Empress Dowager, he really couldn¡¯t shake off Feng Bailing¡¯s prying hand. Not far away, a resentful gaze watched this scene. A perfect picture of familial bliss. Feng Bailing had not even married into the family yet, but she had already been accepted by Dugu Xiaojin. Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes grew cold as she looked toward her son, Dongfang Jin. Dongfang Jin¡¯s face was full of huff, glaring with jealousy at the threesome in front of him. He was of a noble status, and as the Imperial Grandson, his own father had always been unconscious, never once like today, protecting him. Nalan Yan¡¯er felt bitter inside. She so wanted to tell Dongfang Jin that he was Dugu Wu¡¯s child. That bastard didn¡¯t deserve to call Dugu Wu father. And that Feng Bailing had no right to usurp their place. She absolutely couldn¡¯t let Feng Bailing continue to be so self-satisfied. But with Dugu Wu present, she couldn¡¯t make use of the Blessing Technique. Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes shifted, looking at the cat in Dongfang Jin¡¯s arms; when everyone¡¯s attention was on the Empress Dowager, she took the opportunity to pull the cat¡¯s tail. The cat let out a loud meow and darted out. Hearing the cat¡¯s cry, the smile on Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s face froze. He turned around and saw the cat pounce toward him. A violent glint filled its blue and yellow heterogeneous eyes. In his mind, there was a thunderous roar, as if something had suddenly broken. He suddenly let out a loud scream, charging forward, grasping the cat¡¯s throat, hissing noises coming from his throat. The sound was just like a snake hissing. Everyone¡¯s face changed color, then came a crack; the cat struggled in vain before Dugu Xiaojin twisted its neck. ¡°Dugu Xiaojin has gone mad!¡± Dongfang Jin shouted. Dugu Xiaojin slowly turned his head, in his eyes was nothing but wild, beast-like madness, and under the sunlight, his pitch-black pupils began to change color bit by bit. One blue, one gold, eyes of heterochromia! Chapter 82 - 82 82 The Mystery of the Dragon and Phoenix ?Chapter 82: Chapter 82: The Mystery of the Dragon and Phoenix Visions Chapter 82: Chapter 82: The Mystery of the Dragon and Phoenix Visions Heterochromia! The blue eyes deep as the vast sea, the golden eyes like rolling golden clouds, those eyes¡¯ colors were exactly the same as Dugu Wu¡¯s. Dugu Xiaojin also had natural heterochromia, but unlike Dugu Wu, his eyes only changed under extreme conditions. It was also the first time Feng Bailing saw Dugu Xiaojin looking this way. At this moment, Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s face was filled with madness, and a continuous hissing sound emitted from his throat, chilling to the bone. Hearing the noise, several guards rushed over. But as soon as they approached, they saw Dugu Xiaojin kick off the ground like an arrow poised to launch, his small figure darting between the guards. He seemed like a completely different person, showing none of the shyness he exhibited before; the guards couldn¡¯t get close to him at all. Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s expression changed. She couldn¡¯t believe it as she stared at Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyes. She suddenly remembered what Dugu Wu had said earlier. ¡°He is my son.¡± The Dugu Xiaojin they had found had heterochromia, yet her Jinjin didn¡¯t... ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Feng Bailing was anxiously pondering; Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s appearance was highly abnormal, as if... he was suffering from a split personality. Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes were serene, his mind rapidly flipping through memories, returning to that night. It was three years ago, in the twelfth lunar month in Great Chu, the north wind biting. Just past 11 p.m., at the burial ground outskirts, even the soil was frozen stiff. In such weather, even hungry ground mice wouldn¡¯t venture out to seek food. Yet at this time, this place was swarming with snakes, thick as buckets to as thin as chopsticks, vivid in colors, hundreds of venomous snakes hissing, coiled around. Among them, the largest century-old python was carefully curled up, with a bloodstained infant swaddle wrapped in its midst. Not far away, there was a corpse. Its bones had been crushed into mush by the snake, turning it into meat paste, making it impossible to recognize its face. Hiss¡ªSword lights flashed, and several venomous snakes were sliced into segments, two tall figures appeared out of nowhere, ghostlike. The swordsman was Feng Wan; he was accompanying Grandfather back to Chu City tonight, hearing that the Crown Princess Consort was due to give birth. ¡°Grandfather, there¡¯s a dead infant.¡± Feng Wan exclaimed lightly. In the deep winter, so many snakes gathering in the wild was unusual. The two were passing through the burial ground as a shortcut, and unexpectedly encountered a dead infant. This area was desolate, without any dwellings, likely the child of a poor family passing through to escape famine, born and dead soon after, discarded here. The swaddle moved slightly, the faint cry of the infant breaking the night¡¯s tranquility. The infant was still alive. Feng Wan felt it strange, took a step forward which would have been fine if unmoved, but that startle stirred the snakes, and the Green Python raised its head. Its body¡¯s snake patterns shifted, forming layers of hard scales, spitting a tongue flicker at Feng Wan, a puff of venomous mist sprayed from its mouth, giving off a powerful deterrent. Obviously, it did not want the two men to approach. A cold sneer. Dugu Wu strode forward, his long legs taking him past Feng Wan. In the darkness, his features deep and mysterious, his one gold, one blue eyes, met the Green Python¡¯s eyes. It was as if struck by lightning, shocked by the aggressive aura emanating from him, the Green Python¡¯s scales recoiled. The surrounding snakes dispersed wildly, receding like a tide, leaving only the bloodstained swaddle. That Green Python was clearly no ordinary creature, a faint Wenhua Seal-like glow at its forehead, perhaps about to become a sentient being. Feng Wan relieved, stepped forward to pick up the infant, hesitating whether to hand it over to his master. Grandpa dislikes nothing more than unclean things. Dugu Wu glanced at the swaddling clothes, his sexy Adam¡¯s apple rolled. ¡°Ugly.¡± The swaddling clothes were stained with blood, tattered and torn, and inside, the skin of the child was wrinkled, tiny, with closed eyes, crying silently, seeming ready to breathe his last at any moment. Whose child could it be, so weak and ugly. Dugu Wu frowned. Thunder roared, a purple lightning streaked across, splitting the heavy black night sky. After the night sky was torn apart, unexpectedly, auspicious red clouds appeared, continuously changing, yet in the sky lurked a giant dragon roaming the sea of clouds and a Phoenix soaring high. As if frightened by this spectacle, there suddenly came a loud cry, the previously cat-like crying infant, suddenly opened his mouth and cried loudly, and his previously shut eyes also opened. One gold and one blue heterochromatic eyes stunned the two men present. When the dragon and Phoenix spectacle dissipated, the infant¡¯s heterochromatic eyes gradually vanished, leaving behind big, fearless, black eyes staring at Dugu Wu. Dugu Wu stared at the male infant in the swaddling clothes feeling an indescribable sensation in his heart, an unprecedented feeling, his lips quivered. ¡°Take him back.¡± Memories of the past retreated like a tide. Several screams were then heard, several guards had their limbs severed by Dugu Xiaojin. With heterochromia, Dugu Xiaojin acted swiftly and ruthlessly, with a sinister smile on his lips, that little face emitting a strange glow. ¡°Summon the archers.¡± A young man in reddish attire stepped forward, indeed the Eldest Prince, Dongfang Cheng. Dongfang Li had been punished to clean the Cold Palace, these few days the Commander of Imperial Army was temporarily managed by the Eldest Prince. He had been observing coldly earlier, seeing Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s ruthless moves, where over a dozen guards were no match for him, he was greatly shocked. Thinking that Dugu Wu had become disabled, the princes could rest easy. Unexpectedly, picking up a son at random, he too was extraordinarily skilled. At just three years old, capable of forcing back over a dozen royal guards, a future threat once grown. In the darkness, numerous archers already in place with arrows drawn, bows gleaming coldly aimed at Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°Who dares touch my son!¡± Dugu Wu shouted loudly. The archers trembled, all exchanging looks. ¡°Prince Wu, if we don¡¯t kill him, others may get hurt. I¡¯m doing it for everyone¡¯s good, kill him!¡± Dongfang Cheng coldly smirked, with a wave of his hand, he was about to command the archers to shoot. Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s form suddenly shifted, leaping forward, his body boneless, wrapping around Dongfang Cheng. Dongfang Cheng tried to break free, but Xiaojin was too slippery, climbing up and down, leaving him unable to resist effectively. The imperial garden was in chaos. Emperor Yongye also hurried over, and upon seeing the scene, especially Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s heterochromatic eyes, Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression drastically changed. ¡°Grandpa, Dugu Xiaojin has gone mad, he wants to kill us!¡± Dongfang Jin, seeing the carnage, ran to Emperor Yongye, crying out in fear. ¡°Dugu, restrain him.¡± Emperor Yongye glanced at Dugu Wu; in the scene, only Dugu Wu could restrain Xiaojin. Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes were deep, meeting Emperor Yongye¡¯s, he did not move. He actually dared to defy! Anger surged in Emperor Yongye¡¯s eyes. ¡°Xiaojin!¡± At the critical moment, someone cleared the crowd and rushed forward. Chapter 83 - 83 83 Condensing Wuji Earth Seal ?Chapter 83: Chapter 83: Condensing, Wuji Earth Seal Chapter 83: Chapter 83: Condensing, Wuji Earth Seal Hearing that urgent and caring cry, a flicker passed through Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyes. In the depths of the soul teetering on the verge of madness, a trace of hesitation emerged; the heterochromia reflected the figure of someone. That figure was running towards him. ¡°Father Emperor, save me, he¡¯s gone mad.¡± Dongfang Cheng was tightly entwined by Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s serpent-like body, both shocked and terrified. Emperor Yongye was in a furious rage, ready to command the archers to release a flurry of arrows with just a single order. Feng Bailing spread her arms, blocking in front of Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°Shooting him might likely harm the Eldest Prince.¡± Feng Bailing stepped back a few paces, moving closer to Dugu Xiaojin. Emperor Yongye furrowed his brows; with Dugu Xiaojin ensnaring the Eldest Prince, if they really shot the arrows, Dongfang Cheng¡¯s chances of survival would be slim. ¡°Emperor, I¡¯ll be the hostage, in exchange for the Eldest Prince.¡± Feng Bailing spoke and without waiting for Emperor Yongye to speak again, turned around. ¡°Xiaojin, I¡¯ll accompany you.¡± Feng Bailing took a step forward; Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s gaze was wary, but it was softer when looking at her compared to others. ¡°Preposterous, someone come.¡± Emperor Yongye was deeply troubled; at such a time, Feng Bailing still dared to act rashly. ¡°Emperor, let her try.¡± Dugu Wu noticed that Dugu Xiaojin was no longer making the hissing sounds like a snake. Feng Bailing approached step by step. Behind her, Nalan Yan¡¯er clung to Dongfang Jin, looking scared, but her eyes were filled with coldness. This time, Dugu Xiaojin was doomed. Committing violence in the Imperial Palace, even if he indeed was Dugu Wu¡¯s son, he couldn¡¯t escape death. Just as Feng Bailing was about to touch Dugu Xiaojin, suddenly, the melodious sound of a zither filled the air. The zither notes rose and fell, the melody beautiful. Dugu Xiaojin, who had become somewhat calm, upon hearing the zither sound, suddenly had a change in expression, and with a burst of strength, Dongfang Cheng screamed as the sound of bones breaking emanated from his body. Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression shifted drastically; just as he was about to give an order, Feng Bailing stepped forward and with a flick of her hand, a needle soaked with anesthetic pierced Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s neck. Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s gaze stalled, his small body became numb, and the next moment, he passed out. ¡°Father Emperor, kill him, he¡¯s a madman!¡± The Eldest Prince Dongfang Cheng had his arms brutally broken by Xiaojin, he was both in pain and rage. ¡°Grandpa, Dugu Xiaojin is a madman, he¡¯s killed someone, he¡¯ll kill us in the future, quick, kill him.¡± Dongfang Jin was also shouting. Feng Bailing was anxious inside; if Emperor Yongye decided to kill Xiaojin now, then Xiaojin would certainly be dead. Lying on the ground were the bodies of various Imperial Guards, as well as the injured Dongfang Cheng, and Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression was grim. A hand reached out, taking over Dugu Xiaojin. Dugu Wu¡¯s gaze was resolute as he looked at his unconscious son, his eyes filled with complex emotions. He wished so much for Xiaojin to be an ordinary person. But Xiaojin was born extraordinary, he always made Xiaojin endure, never realizing that it was only suppressing Xiaojin¡¯s true nature. Feng Bailing heard a dragon¡¯s roar, and as she looked up, she saw the Purple Gold Giant Dragon staring down at her and Xiaojin with its lantern-like dragon eyes, its gaze still haughty. Dugu Wu¡¯s palm landed on Dugu Xiaojin, and an invisible Gang Qi burrowed into Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s body. Almost simultaneously, a dazzling aura erupted from the Purple Gold Dragon, and the golden chains clinked loudly. The sky, which had been clear and sunny, was now tumultuous with rising winds and surging clouds. In an instant, the purple Emperor¡¯s aura followed Dugu Wu¡¯s Gang Qi, entering Xiaojin¡¯s body as well. All of this Feng Bailing saw clearly, but the onlookers around them were none the wiser. Just as Emperor Yongye was hesitating whether to kill Dugu Xiaojin or not. ¡°Look quickly, Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s forehead has ignited!¡± Dongfang Jin pointed at Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s brow, where a fiery red light was pulsating, growing ever more intense. A faintly visible ancient ¡°Earth¡± character was forming. Dongfang Jin felt the hand that the Queen Mother held him with suddenly tighten; her nails digging into his flesh, he yelped in pain, but the Queen Mother, who usually cared about him, seemed as if she hadn¡¯t heard. Dongfang Jin looked up to see the Queen Mother staring blankly at Dugu Xiaojin, and a surge of intense hatred seemed to flood her gentle and beautiful eyes. Wuji Seal! Who would have thought that Dugu Xiaojin, just three years old, would form a Wuji Seal at this moment? Although it was just an Earth Seal, looking across the entire Royal Family, he was the first. Dongfang Jin, touted as a prodigy, had not yet formed the Wuji Earth Seal, but Dugu Xiaojin, the wild child Dugu Wu picked up, had done so. When the Wuji Earth Seal finally took shape, branded deep into Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s forehead like a hot iron, Dugu Wu withdrew his hand and said in a deep voice. ¡°Reporting to the Emperor, Xiaojin is young and due to disordered Gang Qi, he nearly deviated during cultivation and made a grave mistake. Fortunately, the Princess Feng and I intervened in time, and now the Gang Qi in his body has normalized, and he has successfully formed the Wuji Earth Seal.¡± ¡°Congratulations to the Emperor, the Royal Family gains another Wuji Expert, this is indeed a blessing for Great Chu, and a fortune for the Emperor.¡± Feng Bailing also hurriedly knelt down, her voice crisp. ¡°Emperor, this is a great joy. If Prince Shun were still alive, seeing this scene, he would surely be very pleased.¡± The Empress Dowager was moved to tears, incessantly wiping them away. Upon seeing the gold and blue heterochromia of Dugu Xiaojin, the Empress Dowager was convinced that he was indeed Dugu Wu¡¯s biological son. The Empress Dowager thought that now, with Dugu Wu¡¯s mobility impaired and the Imperial Hospital saying he likely could not have more children, with Xiaojin, he would have a descendent. Seeing the Empress Dowager had spoken, Dongfang Lianhua and the guards all knelt to congratulate Emperor Yongye. ¡°To have formed the Wuji Seal at the age of three, such a phenomenon is indeed rare in the world. Have someone from the Imperial Hospital examine him to ensure there are no mistakes. This matter ends here today; you all may withdraw.¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression softened, and as his gaze swept over Dongfang Jin beside him, there was an unavoidable hint of disappointment in his eyes. He had thought that Dongfang Jin, as the Imperial Grandson and the one who had attracted the dragon and phoenix auspices, would be the first in the Royal Family to form the Wenhua Seal, but instead, it was Dugu Wu¡¯s son who got ahead. The greater the hope, the greater the disappointment. After Emperor Yongye left, Dugu Xiaojin was taken to the Empress Dowager¡¯s side hall. ¡°Queen Mother, why didn¡¯t Grandpa kill Dugu Xiaojin? He killed my cat!¡± Dongfang Jin watched as everyone dispersed, and neither Emperor Yongye nor the Empress Dowager were fussing over him as usual. Feeling neglected, he became petulant. ¡°Why isn¡¯t it you?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er gripped Dongfang Jin¡¯s arm, her eyes blazing with rage and her beautiful features contorted. ¡°Queen Mother, you¡¯re scaring me.¡± ¡°You must form the Wenhua Seal. Come back with me; you will read the Law of Chu without rest tonight, and the Four Books and Five Classics as well. You cannot lose to Dugu Xiaojin. My son, Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s son, how could he be worse than a little bastard?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er dragged Dongfang Jin along, ignoring the horrified expressions of the surrounding palace maids, and hurried him back. Chapter 84 - 84 84 Xiaojins Illness ?Chapter 84: Chapter 84 Xiaojin¡¯s Illness Chapter 84: Chapter 84 Xiaojin¡¯s Illness In the side hall, Dugu Xiaojin lay on the bed. Unlike his previous madness, he now appeared frail and helpless. He seemed to be having a nightmare, murmuring incessantly. ¡°Don¡¯t... leave me... Father... I¡¯ve been good...¡± His tiny fists clenched from time to time, wildly swinging in the air, his feet kicking. Dugu Wu sat beside him, his face grim. ¡°Reporting to Prince Wu, the Young Heir is not in serious danger. He was just startled. This servant will prescribe some sleeping draught to aid his spirit...¡± ¡°Get out.¡± With a glance from Dugu Wu, the third Imperial Physician from the Imperial Hospital was frightened away. Dugu Wu was in a state of agitation; even if Lu Yin were here, he would be at a loss with this illness. A year ago, Xiaojin also fell ill. At that time, he was on a military campaign, and Lu Yin rushed back to treat Xiaojin, saying no malady was found, that Xiaojin suffered from an illness not recorded in medical texts¡ªhis body had no issues and was even much better than children of the same age. Thus, the issue had been continually delayed, with Xiaojin displaying no problems when not in an episode. ¡°This isn¡¯t ordinary sickness; it¡¯s spiritual schizophrenia.¡± Feng Bailing entered. ¡°You know his illness; then you must have a remedy?¡± As if grasping a lifeline, Dugu Wu seized Feng Bailing¡¯s hand, then realizing his own impropriety, he let go, his ears slightly burning. ¡°To cure this illness is different from common ones; the treatment must be specific to the symptoms. Most importantly, we must ascertain the cause of his attacks.¡± The Dugu Xiaojin that Feng Bailing knew was an introverted and shy child. He would not harm a soul on normal days, let alone hurt animals. Yet, in a state of spiritual schizophrenia, he could kill without blinking an eye. ¡°I only know of one episode he had when he was two years old. I was not at the Prince Manor then; he was always looked after by the Princess Consort. I... failed him.¡± It was after that episode that Dugu Wu could not leave Xiaojin alone at the Prince Manor. After returning to Chu City to assume his duties, he handed over the command to his deputy. He knew well that staying in Chu City would bring suspicion, but for Xiaojin, he had to stay. After his return, Xiaojin¡¯s condition did indeed improve. Unexpectedly, he had a relapse in the Imperial Palace this time. Dugu Wu felt immense guilt; he should not have brought Xiaojin to the Imperial Palace, knowing full well Xiaojin despised it. Feng Bailing was about to reproach him, when suddenly, the Purple Gold Dragon appeared again. It swung its tail, its enormous body coiling around Dugu Wu, and after the episode just now, the purple gleam on the dragon¡¯s body seemed much dimmer. This was also the first time Feng Bailing saw tiredness on Dugu Wu¡¯s face. To help Xiaojin consolidate the Wuji Seal, Dugu Wu must have expended a great deal, his leg injury not yet fully healed. The man lowered his gaze, fixating on Xiaojin lying on the bed, his eyes shimmering with tenderness. Feng Bailing felt a stir in her heart. This fiercely brutal man also had a gentle side. Leaving this rare moment of tranquility to father and son, Feng Bailing exited the side hall, and Dongfang Lianhua hurried over. ¡°Ah Ling, you need to go see Princess Consort Shun. She may not make it.¡± Today was quite unfortunate for Princess Consort Shun, hit out of nowhere by a wasp nest, stung all over her face, and when sent for treatment, she was still doing fine. But to everyone¡¯s surprise, after taking the medicine from the Imperial Hospital, she began itching all over, her limbs twitching incessantly. The Imperial Hospital¡¯s staff had tried several methods with no improvement, and the situation was only getting worse. It seemed they were about to inform Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion to prepare for the aftermath. When Feng Bailing arrived, Princess Consort Shun was still rolling on her bed. Feng Bailing ordered someone to fetch water, added an anti-allergy pill, and when she fed it to her, Princess Consort Shun, seeing it was her, was so agitated her eyes rolled back in her head. ¡°Feng Bailing, what are you doing here?¡± The sight of Feng Bailing made Princess Consort Shun¡¯s wounds ache and itch even more. ¡°I¡¯m here to see a doctor.¡± Feng Bailing looked at Princess Consort Shun, her face unrecognizable, with a beaming smile. ¡°Do you really have such good intentions?¡± Princess Consort Shun was wary. She had heard of Feng Bailing¡¯s medical skill, but she always felt that Feng Bailing was up to no good. ¡°If you die, Dugu Wu will have to observe mourning for three years, and I am certainly not waiting another three years to get married.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s words almost enraged Princess Consort Shun to death. ¡°I won¡¯t take your medicine.¡± Princess Consort Shun turned her head away, swearing that as long as she lived, she would never let Feng Bailing into Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. Without a word, Feng Bailing held Princess Consort Shun¡¯s jaw and poured the water into her mouth. ¡°People, help! Murder... glug... she¡¯s poisoning me...¡± After being force-fed a few mouthfuls of medicine, Princess Consort Shun suddenly felt the itchiness of her wounds lessen, and her twitching limbs stopped convulsing. ¡°Do you really know medical skills?¡± Princess Consort Shun was not polite this time; she snatched the bowl of medicine and drank it to the last drop. ¡°This is just medicine for your allergies, not for treating wasp poison. If not dealt with properly, the wasp poison will leave scars.¡± Feng Bailing tsked. ¡°Do you have a method to remove scars?¡± Princess Consort Shun¡¯s face was her most treasured asset; if it were left with scars, she would rather not live at all. ¡°I ask, you answer. If I¡¯m satisfied with your answers, I¡¯ll give you the scar-removing remedy.¡± Princess Consort Shun, touching her scarred face, nodded frantically. ¡°Xiaojin had his first attack when you were present, right? When his eyes changed color, and his personality drastically altered.¡± At Feng Bailing¡¯s question, Princess Consort Shun gasped. ¡°He had another attack. I¡¯ve said it before, that child is possessed and will go mad. I told Dugu Wu to lock him up, but Dugu Wu wouldn¡¯t listen.¡± Feng Bailing frowned. ¡°Did you lock him up?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense; I don¡¯t have the courage... How could I do such a thing? I haven¡¯t abused Dugu Xiaojin. Although he was found and brought in, Dugu Wu treats him as his own. After all, I am nominally his grandmother; so many eyes are watching me inside and outside the mansion. I gave him good food and clothes, I didn¡¯t know why he suddenly went mad. Speaking of it, this happened not long after Zhao Ningyue entered the door.¡± Zhao Ningyue, Feng Bailing had heard of this person before. She was Dugu Wu¡¯s second Princess Consort, the legitimate eldest daughter of General Zhao¡¯s Mansion. This woman had made quite a name for herself in Chu City early on. Unlike Feng Xiangxue and Nalan Yan¡¯er, Zhao Ningyue was a woman accomplished in both the literary and martial arts. She fell in love with Dugu Wu at first sight, and despite opposition from General Mansion, she was determined to marry the recently widowed Dugu Wu, even going so far as to reject an imperial marriage granted by the Emperor, causing a sensation in Chu City at the time. Dugu Wu had married three wives; this one had lived the longest, staying at Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion for about half a year. However, though it was half a year, she hadn¡¯t consummated the marriage with Dugu Wu. At that time, the battle between Great Chu and Dazhi Dynasty was fierce; Dugu Wu led the army at the border for a year and a half, and even the wedding was held by proxy. ¡°I remember she died from an illness.¡± Feng Bailing asked again. ¡°Illness, that¡¯s the story for the public, she was actually murdered...¡± Princess Consort Shun stopped mid-sentence as if realizing something and shut her mouth. Chapter 85 - 85 85 The Corrupted Little Boy ?Chapter 85: Chapter 85: The Corrupted Little Boy? Chapter 85: Chapter 85: The Corrupted Little Boy? Seeing Feng Bailing staring intently at herself, Princess Consort Shun refused to speak any further, dead or alive. She was not foolish; this matter related to the safety of both the General Mansion and Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, and she dared not disclose it. ¡°I have a formula on hand that can make one¡¯s skin as delicate as could be, without a single wrinkle. My mother tried it and it¡¯s quite effective.¡± Feng Bailing muttered to herself. Princess Consort Shun thought about it; Dongfang Lianhua had recently recovered from a serious illness, yet her complexion was better than hers, making her appear younger than her, despite being eight or nine years her junior. Princess Consort Shun¡¯s heart itched with curiosity again. ¡°What kind of formula?¡± ¡°How did Zhao Ningyue die?¡± Feng Bailing counter-questioned. ¡°Ah, I¡¯ll tell you secretly, but you mustn¡¯t let it out, otherwise, Dugu Wu will...¡± Princess Consort Shun made a throat-slitting gesture and, after looking around to ensure no one was around, whispered. ¡°Zhao Ningyue didn¡¯t die from illness; she was killed by Dugu Xiaojin. Don¡¯t be fooled by his good looks, as if he¡¯s a figure stepping straight out of a New Year painting; the methods he uses, tsk tsk, you should¡¯ve seen Zhao Ningyue¡¯s tragic death¡ªit was too horrible to look at.¡± Before she could finish speaking, Princess Consort Shun was frightened by Feng Bailing¡¯s piercing gaze, as sharp as a knife, making her skin crawl. ¡°Don¡¯t look at me like that, I¡¯m telling the truth. At first, Zhao Ningyue, of her own volition, refused marriage, saying she wanted to marry Dugu Wu. Back then, Dugu Wu had just lost a Princess Consort, and when the General Mansion proposed the match, I didn¡¯t hesitate to consent.¡± Her attitude towards Zhao Ningyue back then was heaven and earth compared to her treatment of Feng Bailing now. After all, Zhao Ningyue had a good reputation, was adept in both literary and martial skills, and although her looks were not on par with those like Nalan Yan¡¯er or Feng Xiangxue, as the legitimate daughter of the General Mansion, she was dignified and beyond reproach. Without waiting for Dugu Wu¡¯s response, the marriage was set. ¡°The wedding date had already been arranged, and Dugu Wu had even requested a decree to return to court from the campaign. But on the journey back, the Daye Dynasty attacked again. He had to turn back to battle, but the wedding couldn¡¯t be postponed, so I took charge and had someone escort the bride on his behalf.¡± Princess Consort Shun recalled. Zhao Ningyue successfully entered Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, and the next day, she met Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°She didn¡¯t like Xiaojin?¡± Feng Bailing felt a tug at her heart at the mention of Xiaojin. ¡°On the contrary, she liked Xiaojin very much, praised his good looks and talents in both letters and arms, treating him as if he were her own child.¡± Princess Consort Shun sighed heavily. After marrying into Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, Zhao Ningyue actively offered to take care of Xiaojin. At that time, Xiaojin was only two years old. From infancy, he was a loner, hardly speaking in front of others, even in the presence of Princess Consort Shun, his grandmother. Princess Consort Shun, having a son of her own, was naturally not close to him, so when Zhao Ningyue wanted to take care of him, Princess Consort Shun went with the flow and entrusted Xiaojin to her. ¡°It had been only half a year when one midnight, I suddenly heard hysterical crying from Yue Pavilion. Zhao Ningyue¡¯s maid, Xiao Xi, ran out crazed, claiming Zhao Ningyue was dead. I went with the manager to see...¡± Princess Consort Shun had that terrifying image in her mind again. In the pitch-black room, where the lantern had long been extinguished. The woman lay face up, her cloud brocade long dress already torn to shreds. Her once beautiful face was crawling with large and small grey-haired mice, her eyes, nose, and mouth bloody and indistinguishable in shape. Her hands, once skilled at calligraphy and painting, had also been gnawed to tatters, revealing the ghastly white of her bones. Dugu Xiaojin curled up into a ball, his clothes thin, greasy hair clung to his face, his feet bare, his hands and feet already frozen to a purplish blue. He tightly hugged his own legs, his eyes devoid of any emotional fluctuation¡ªthe blue and gold pupils in the dark were like a cat¡¯s eyes at night, giving anyone who saw them a shudder. ¡°Why claim that it was mice that killed Zhao Ningyue, yet you slander Xiaojin for murdering her?¡± Feng Bailing felt a tightness in her chest, a suffocating feeling that wouldn¡¯t rise or fall. For a mere two-year-old child to witness such a scene, it wouldn¡¯t be strange for Xiaojin to collapse. ¡°It was him, it definitely was him. I had noticed early on that the child doesn¡¯t talk much, but he can communicate with animals. Where would Prince Mansion have so many mice? Surely, he summoned them.¡± Princess Consort Shun remembered that Xiaojin was brought back by Dugu Wu himself. When brought back, he was claimed to be his son. Princess Consort Shun agreed to foster the child, considering the substantial income that Dugu Wu brought to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion every year. Dugu Xiaojin was indeed strange. Even as an infant, his cries were soft, barely crying once a day. He learned to write early, but he was late to speak. By the age of one and a half, he couldn¡¯t even call out ¡®Daddy¡¯. Not long after Dugu Wu had brought him back, he went on a long expedition. Dugu Xiaojin had always been odd-tempered, and the young masters and misses of Prince Mansion also kept their distance from him. He didn¡¯t like to play with the servants and maids either; once he could walk, he would often squat alone in the courtyard. Several times, the maids and servants heard him talking to the air. Upon closer observation, he could be seen talking to birds flying in the sky, ants crawling on the ground, and even some passing by snakes, insects, mice, and ants. ¡°Also, one time, I took him to the palace to meet the Empress Dowager. When I turned back, he was nowhere to be found. When I located him, he had fallen into a pond, which gave me quite a scare. I had the eunuchs fish him out, and guess what, dozens of turtles in the pond were beneath him, keeping him from sinking.¡± In Princess Consort Shun¡¯s memory, there were truly many strange incidents involving Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°After Zhao Ningyue died, I was terrified, so I sent someone to inform Dugu Wu in the middle of the night. I didn¡¯t dare touch the child, so I left him there. Those hundreds of mice just wouldn¡¯t leave; they ate and slept with him until Dugu Wu returned, then they scattered.¡± Princess Consort Shun stroked her chest, saying it¡¯s hard being a stepmother, and not any easier being a step-grandmother. ¡°I told Dugu Wu all these strange occurrences, saying the child was sinister. I thought he would send him away, but to my surprise, after listening, he tightly embraced Dugu Xiaojin and praised him severely. He resigned from military duties and stayed in Chu City. After that, Dugu Xiaojin was always by his side, and he never went mad again.¡± After recounting these events, Princess Consort Shun also sighed in relief. She had been bottling up these matters for a long time, always without anyone to share them with. ¡°Could Zhao Ningyue play the zither?¡± Feng Bailing pondered for a moment before abruptly asking. ¡°How did you know? Indeed, she played the zither beautifully, reputed to be one of the best in Yuxiu Academy. Not at all like some people, who are ignorant of the six arts.¡± Princess Consort Shun¡¯s words carried a sneer. ¡°For a wasp sting, you can get some water mixed with vinegar, applying it for a while should do the trick. As for a method to reduce wrinkles, my mother was naturally beautiful and seldom indulged in smiles or laughter. If you can be more magnanimous and less sharp-tongued and caustic, naturally you too can remain unblemished.¡± Feng Bailing saw that Princess Consort Shun¡¯s sudden itching and pain were due to an allergic reaction from a wasp sting, and having taken medication for allergies, naturally cured it. By the time Princess Consort Shun realized Feng Bailing was mocking her, Feng Bailing had already disappeared without a trace. Chapter 86 - 86 86 Lets Sleep Together ?Chapter 86: Chapter 86: Let¡¯s Sleep Together Chapter 86: Chapter 86: Let¡¯s Sleep Together This trip was worthwhile, as I managed to gather clear information about Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s illness from Princess Consort Shun. When Feng Bailing returned to the side hall, it was already deep into the night. On the couch, Dugu Wu and his son had actually fallen asleep. Even in his dreams, the man¡¯s brow was tightly furrowed. Under the lamplight, his facial features were as if carved by the gods, extraordinarily handsome. Dugu Xiaojin turned over, kicking off the covers. His sleeping posture was as restless as Feng Xiaoli¡¯s. Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but laugh in amusement as she stepped forward to tuck Dugu Xiaojin back under the covers. Little did she know that Dugu Wu¡¯s sleeping habits were even less restrained; half of his body was exposed. Such a golden opportunity, how could she miss it! Feng Bailing eagerly stepped forward to pull the covers, but as soon as she touched them, Dugu Wu seemed to sense something. He grabbed Feng Bailing¡¯s hand. The next moment, with a forceful pull, Feng Bailing tumbled into his arms. Feeling the warmth on his body, Dugu Wu¡¯s furrowed brow relaxed, and his breathing became steadier. Feng Bailing lay on top of Dugu Wu, and he actually took her for a blanket! Feng Bailing was both frustrated and overjoyed. Frustrated because the man had grabbed both of her hands and she couldn¡¯t move at all, and joyful because it was the first time they had such extensive close contact. She could feel her seventh sense growing by leaps and bounds. For the sake of her seventh sense, she endured. Until dawn, when Dugu Wu woke up, he felt a heaviness on his chest and something soft pressing against him. He looked down to see the face of a woman wearing a veil, sleeping sweetly with her dense eyelashes trembling lightly, like the wings of a butterfly ready to take flight. This woman, she actually climbed into his bed! Dugu Wu wanted to kick her out with one foot, but he couldn¡¯t move his legs. But upon seeing his own hands, a heat surged through his abdomen. His hands were wrapped around Feng Bailing¡¯s slender waist, holding her tightly with an overwhelming desire to possess. With a darkened face, Dugu Wu stumbled and rolled out of bed and hastily left the side hall. After Dugu Wu ¡°escaped,¡± Feng Bailing stretched lazily and sat up. Replenished by the Emperor¡¯s aura all night, Feng Bailing felt physically and mentally delighted, her whole being radiated an indescribable vitality. Dugu Wu, what a tonic. Feng Bailing took out the emergency kit, opened it to check, and saw that all the necessary medication had been restocked. Beside her, there was the tender voice of Dugu Xiaojin. Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s face still wore a look of surprise. In fact, he had woken up earlier than both his mother and father. He saw his father holding his mother, sleeping beside them both, he was so happy! The servants of the Prince Mansion all said that only two people who like each other would sleep together. Father likes mother! Feng Bailing saw the freshly awakened Dugu Xiaojin, his eyes wide open, his little face just woken up like a red apple, she couldn¡¯t resist giving Dugu Xiaojin a kiss. ¡°Xiaojin, your body isn¡¯t in serious trouble anymore, after the medication, you should go to school.¡± Feng Bailing said with a smile as she had a palace maid bring over breakfast and a bowl of stewed medicinal soup. ¡°Xiaojin doesn¡¯t want to take medicine.¡± Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyes were slightly red, his lips pressed tight. He didn¡¯t remember what had happened last night, but he vaguely knew that he must have done something wrong. Last time, he also remembered nothing, and the Princess Consort Shun had an Imperial Physician give him many medicines to drink. ¡°Don¡¯t drink the medicine if you don¡¯t want to, here are some sugar-pills, keep them with you. Next time you feel scared or angry, eat one immediately.¡± Feng Bailing took over a porcelain bottle, which had just been replaced with new medicine from her first aid box. She gave Dugu Xiaojin twenty sedative pills, which have a very good calming effect on his emotions and can slowly improve his condition. Dugu Xiaojin obediently accepted the medicine, got dressed properly, and was then taken to the Imperial Academy by Feng Wan. The illness of the Empress Dowager stabilized after several days of treatment and observation. She rewarded the mother and daughter with some jewelry and fabrics, and only then did they leave the palace. ¡°The enrollment for the Yuxiu Academy¡¯s examination is today. I heard that you can register at the market. My daughter plans to go and register first, then visit Xinglin Spring.¡± Feng Bailing had the Coachman drop her off at the market and told Dongfang Lianhua to return to the mansion first. The market today was busier than usual. A few lightly dressed female teachers from Yuxiu Academy stood out in the crowd, each of them with remarkable appearance and outstanding temperament. ¡°Ladies, please line up and collect your number cards, register your names. The number cards have the time on them, come to Yuxiu Academy for the assessment tomorrow according to the time.¡± ¡°Number seven hundred sixty-three.¡± Feng Bailing stood in line and heard the number being called out at the front. There were only ten slots for non-noble-born women, and it got as high as over seven hundred numbers. The competition was quite intense. In front of Feng Bailing stood a round-faced plump girl who seemed younger than Feng Bailing and was about the same height as her, quite full-figured. ¡°My name is Ouyang Chenchen, I come from Daye.¡± Daye Dynasty is a large nation bordering Great Chu, the two countries, being equally powerful and with frequent border conflicts, have been at war for years. During the years Feng Bailing begged, she had met many Daye merchants on the streets and knew a bit about Daye¡¯s customs and national conditions. She remembered that about a year later, Daye Dynasty underwent a coup d¡¯e?tat. The Emperor of Daye Dynasty was assassinated, concubines conspired with external relatives to misgovern, and all the Emperor¡¯s children were slaughtered. After the two of them registered, it was already dark. After saying goodbye to Ouyang Chenchen, Feng Bailing walked towards Xinglin Spring. After Doctor Yang¡¯s death, Xinglin Spring was investigated by the government, all the inferior medicines were destroyed, and the accounts were rechecked. A couple of days ago, when she was in the palace, Dugu Wu told her that Su Wang¡¯s injuries had healed, and he volunteered to be the store manager at Xinglin Spring. Entering Xinglin Spring after a few days, she immediately smelled the fragrance of medicinal herbs. ¡°Owner, Xinglin Spring can reopen for business tomorrow. The incident with Yang Shoucai has had a significant impact, and the Medicine Shop¡¯s business might suffer for a while. Additionally, the shop still lacks a doctor to see patients.¡± Su Wang reminded her. ¡°As for the doctor¡¯s matter, I will ask Lu Yin for help. As for restoring the shop¡¯s reputation, I am still thinking of a method.¡± While they were talking, they heard someone cursing outside. ¡°Here, smash this place!¡± A few ferocious-looking servants rushed in and started smashing things without any explanation. Su Wang led a few assistants to stop them. ¡°The law? I am the law! You quacks hurt people; not only will we smash Xinglin Spring, but we¡¯ll also report this to the authorities and have you all thrown in jail!¡± A man walked in arrogantly. He had a decent appearance, about twenty-four or twenty-five years old, tall and burly, dressed in lavish clothes, with his eyes perched on top of his head, not deigning to look directly at people. Chapter 87 - 87 87 Could Too Many White Hairs Also Be a Sign ?Chapter 87: Chapter 87: Could Too Many White Hairs Also Be a Sign of Illness? Chapter 87: Chapter 87: Could Too Many White Hairs Also Be a Sign of Illness? ¡°Dongfang Qi?¡± Feng Bailing recognized the visitor. ¡°You are not Feng Sanwu! How come you are here?¡± Upon a closer look, the person revealed a smirk. It was Feng Bailing. ¡°Xinglin Spring belongs to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, my mother gave it to me as part of my dowry.¡± Dongfang Qi was the third son of Emperor Yongye, one of Feng Bailing¡¯s cousins. The old Feng Bailing always disliked him. However, this man, he was cold on the outside but warm on the inside. When Feng Luochen was imprisoned, none of the princes cared, only he pleaded for Feng Luochen before Emperor Yongye. Since her return from the Other Manor, Feng Bailing had yet to see him, having heard that he was ill and resting at home. But the way he looked robust and vital, he didn¡¯t seem ill at all. ¡°Xinglin Spring is yours? Since we¡¯re relatives, compensate me with one thousand taels for selling me fake Polygonum multiflorum, and I¡¯ll let it go.¡± Dongfang Qi sat arrogantly on the counter, furious and pointing at his own head. Dongfang Qi was only in his twenties, but his hair had already turned grey and white, making him look like an elderly man. No wonder he hadn¡¯t been seen outside recently; it was because his hair had turned white. ¡°Third Prince, what you have is premature white hair, Polygonum multiflorum won¡¯t work for that.¡± Feng Bailing sneered as she looked at the Third Prince¡¯s head. ¡°You either compensate me, or I will complain to Father Emperor. By then, it won¡¯t just be this ruined shop that¡¯s in trouble, but the Princess¡¯ Mansion might be convicted of deceiving and disrespect.¡± Dongfang Qi spat bitterly, not understanding what cursed him to suddenly start growing white hair at such a young age. He had bought Polygonum multiflorum and ate it, but it didn¡¯t work at all, and his white hair got even worse. The mansion physician examined it and declared that what he consumed was not Polygonum multiflorum at all, but merely a piece of wood carving. ¡°Third cousin, I don¡¯t have one thousand taels. However, I do have a method that can turn your hair black overnight.¡± Premature white hair isn¡¯t hard to cure. It seemed like Dongfang Qi¡¯s was sudden, probably due to a deficiency in trace elements. The right medicine along with dietary therapy could solve it in a few months. ¡°Do you truly have a way?¡± Dongfang Qi was skeptical. ¡°Just wait a moment, I¡¯ll do as I said. However, the costs of damages you¡¯ve caused tonight, including to my shop and its people, you¡¯ll have to cover as well.¡± Before Feng Bailing could finish, Dongfang Qi waved his hand. ¡°If you can cure it, forget about the costs, I, Dongfang Qi, will owe you a huge favor. But if you fail, after tonight, Chu City shall have no Xinglin Spring shop.¡± Feng Bailing nodded her head and turned to enter the backyard of Xinglin Spring, mentally repeating a few words and opening the second layer of the emergency kit. But upon opening it, she was stunned; the item she needed wasn¡¯t in the second layer of the emergency kit. Feng Bailing, unfazed, closed her eyes and recited a few sentences again. When she reopened it, the kit remained the same as before. It was clear that the emergency kit discriminated against who might use it. Dugu Wu had held it for a while, and it created the specific medicine for him. Yet it completely ignored what she urgently needed. Feng Bailing remembered, back in the warzone, she could produce any medicine required from the kit. Why had it gone into a rebellious phase after she was reborn? Feng Bailing pondered the recent details and quickly thought of some facts she had overlooked. In the warzone, she could always get supplies and medicine due to the urgency¡ªa slight delay could mean the loss of lives. However, after returning to Great Chu, her uses of the emergency kit were not always immediate. The blood pressure medicine for Dongfang Lianhua was for a life-saving purpose, and the kit cooperated by providing it. ¡°I¡¯ve relied on you too much and forgot the true heart of a physician. Indeed, I should not have. But this time, it is an emergency, an exception.¡± Feng Bailing thought to herself. She opened the emergency kit once more, and this time, in the second layer, there appeared a black hair cream. Seeing Feng Bailing return with no medicine but a bottle of strange cream, Dongfang Qi was full of suspicion. ¡°Feng Sanwu, let me tell you, if you give me fake medicine again, I will smash your shop.¡± Dongfang Qi said unfriendly. Feng Bailing prepared hot water and had someone wash Dongfang Qi¡¯s hair first before she personally took action. Dongfang Qi, puzzled, watched these curiosities and suppressed his irritation, allowing Feng Bailing to apply the treatment to his head. Half an hour later, Dongfang Qi was growing impatient. Only then did Feng Bailing let him wash his hair. ¡°Feng Sanwu, don¡¯t think that by applying ink to my head, you can cover my white hair. I¡¯ve tried everything, sesame seeds, Polygonum multiflorum soaked in alcohol...¡± Dongfang Qi resigned to his fate. But as soon as his hair was dried, his eyeballs nearly popped out. ¡°Black? It¡¯s actually black!¡± Dongfang Qi jumped up excitedly, touching his hair, which didn¡¯t fade and was even blacker than before. ¡°Congratulations, third cousin, oh, I should call you younger cousin now, you look truly young.¡± Feng Bailing flattered. ¡°Feng Sanwu, you¡¯ve got some skill. That thing just now, get me ten or eight bottles of it.¡± Dongfang Qi, ecstatic, casually pulled out a stack of silver notes and slapped them on the counter. ¡°The cream isn¡¯t difficult to make, but you won¡¯t need it in the future. When you return home, swap your eating utensils for copper ones, eat more animal liver regularly, along with apricots, nuts, and mushrooms, and your hair will recover in three months.¡± Feng Bailing diagnosed that Dongfang Qi was deficient in trace elements, particularly copper. The foods she recommended were rich in copper. The hair cream, however, gave her an idea; she could concoct a natural hair cream from medicinal herbs and sell it at Xinglin Spring. ¡°Now that the medicine has cured you, you may leave, no need to stay as we close up.¡± Feng Bailing was in a hurry to return home to see Feng Xiaoli. A beaming Dongfang Qi left behind a silver note worth one hundred taels and walked away. Su Wang instructed the staff to prepare for closing and picked up the one hundred taels. But when Su Wang opened the cashbox, he broke out in a cold sweat. ¡°Boss, the silver is gone.¡± He calculated clearly; Xinglin Spring had one thousand taels of silver remaining. Yet during the commotion caused by Dongfang Qi, the silver flew away. The cashbox was locked, and nobody had approached it just now. Could the one thousand taels have flown away on its own? Chapter 88 - 88 90 The Tattoo on Dugu Wus Body ?Chapter 88: Chapter 90: The Tattoo on Dugu Wu¡¯s Body Chapter 88: Chapter 90: The Tattoo on Dugu Wu¡¯s Body Feng Bailing suddenly thought, could it be that the tube of hair dye was exchanged for those one thousand silver taels? That¡¯s one thousand taels!! Feng Bailing felt her heart bleeding. A swallowing gold beast¡¯s emergency kit! ¡°This money, I know where to use it. You go to the pawnshop and pawn this Jade Pendant... A redeemable pawn, just for three days. After three days, I will redeem it. Use the money you get from pawning it to rotate funds. Apart from buying the usual medicinal herbs, buy an additional batch of high-quality aged ginger, indigo naturalis, Angelica dahurica, and dried pine.¡± Feng Bailing felt around on her person, the only thing of value was that Jade Pendant from Dugu Wu. Thinking of Dugu Wu¡¯s gloomy handsome face, Feng Bailing could only choose a redeemable pawn. Three days later, either she would pass the Yuxiu Academy¡¯s assessment, or her herbal hair dye development would be successful, and she could redeem it without anyone being the wiser. Just as Dongfang Qi entered Xinglin Spring, a shadow fell outside Dugu Wu¡¯s window in Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. ¡°My lord, the Third Prince came in with a group of people, all furious. After more than half an hour, they left with smiles on their faces and black hair.¡± Feng Zao reported. Smiling with black hair? Was that still the irascible Third Prince Dongfang Qi they knew? ¡°Master Feng is truly a divine being.¡± Lu Yin¡¯s face was full of respect, naturally dropping the term ¡°little¡± from her address. Among the princes of Emperor Yongye, except for some, the rest were inconsequential. Against Feng Bailing, it was sure to be them who would suffer. ¡°Another matter, Princess Feng pawned your Jade Pendant, right in your own pawnshop.¡± Feng Zao hesitated, but still reported truthfully. Dugu Wu put down his book, his eyes darkening. Was she really in such a need for money? ¡°How¡¯s the matter concerning Feng Luochen coming along?¡± Dugu Wu glanced at Lu Yin. Feng Bailing was using her medical skills to restrain him; he must have a chess piece that could restrain Feng Bailing. Dongfang Lianhua had been staying within the Princess¡¯ Mansion and was not an easy target, but the gambling-infested Feng Luochen could be used. ¡°I have already ordered someone from my sect to handle this. In a few days, we will be able to rescue Feng Luochen. However, are you sure you want to do this?¡± Lu Yin did not dare to finish her sentence. After all, Feng Luochen was Dugu Wu¡¯s prospective brother-in-law; was he really going to imprison him? ¡°Feng Bailing is full of suspicions, and Emperor Yongye has let her off several times; there must be a reason for that. She is cunning, and if we do not use Feng Luochen to restrain her, she will become a future threat.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes were profound. He was a subject of Emperor Yongye, and the emperor was naturally suspicious. After Feng Bailing¡¯s return, she seemed like a changed person. Emperor Yongye having summoned her several times and not killing her had already made Dugu Wu suspicious. However, since Feng Bailing¡¯s medical skills could heal his leg, he needed to spare her life. After a year, if she could heal his leg, he might spare her life. But if she couldn¡¯t... a vicious look flashed through Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes. Lu Yin knew better than to rub him the wrong way at this time and quickly changed the subject. ¡°We¡¯ve received news from Shanyin Inn. Your cheap father-in-law truly lives up to his background as a live-in son-in-law; in just a few days, he has become very intimate with Lady Nan Feng. Lady Nan Feng and he are now addressing each other as husband and wife, and they¡¯re utterly inseparable. It¡¯s said that Lady Nan Feng is even considering settling down with him.¡± Lu Yin was looking forward to seeing Feng Zhanlian being toyed with by a bunch of old women, but unexpectedly, he had found himself an even bigger patron than Princess Yong¡¯an. After being sold to Shanyin Inn, Feng Zhanlian served Lady Nan Feng on the very first day. His charming face and excellent skills had completely captivated the experienced Lady Nan Feng. ¡°Notify Feng Bailing.¡± Upon hearing the news, Dugu Wu¡¯s thin lips slightly curved upwards, imagining Feng Bailing would enjoy this ¡°good¡± news. Dugu Wu left his study and headed towards Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s room. ¡°Xiaojin has schizophrenia, a treatable condition. I have already prescribed medication for him, but he also needs more company from his family. He is very fond of you, so spend more time with him whenever possible. A child¡¯s upbringing cannot lack parental companionship. With Xiaojin¡¯s mother gone, you must play both mother and father, and best if you can stay with him at night.¡± Before leaving the palace, Feng Bailing had specifically advised him. He pushed open the door to the room, which was pitch black. Dugu Wu, who could see in the dark, realized there was no one on the bed. In the corner of the room, Dugu Xiaojin hugged Baishan and curled into a ball. Seeing Dugu Wu, Dugu Xiaojin got up with a face full of surprise, not even bothering to put on shoes. In the darkness, Dugu Wu stood there like a guiding light, dispelling all the darkness in the depths of Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s heart. ¡°Can¡¯t sleep?¡± Dugu Wu glanced at his son, who was wearing only thin clothes. The little guy stood reservedly to the side, staring at his own feet. He couldn¡¯t sleep alone. Whenever he did, he would dream of that scene... ¡°Monster, you and your father are both monsters, you both should die!¡± The dignified and beautiful woman in front of others held a cat in her arms. She looked fierce and kept stabbing him with a hairpin... ¡°Let me tell you a story.¡± As soon as Dugu Wu finished speaking, Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyes lit up. He ran to Dugu Wu¡¯s side, helped his father onto the bed, and for the first time since he could remember, apart from last night, he had never slept with his father. ¡°Once upon a time, there was the Kingdom of Aolai in the East Victory Divine Continent. By the sea, there was a mountain called Huaguo Mountain. Atop the mountain was a massive stone...¡± After looking through the manuscript Feng Bailing wrote for him in the study, Dugu Wu had finished reading the part of Journey to the West that Feng Bailing had given him, and it was quite interesting. The night made the man¡¯s voice less harsh than during the day, with a deep and magnetic tone like a top-notch lullaby. Gradually, Dugu Xiaojin became immersed in the ocean of stories. He didn¡¯t know how long he had been listening when he heard steady breathing in his ear. Two small feet stuck out from the quilt. Seeing Dugu Xiaojin sleeping in a little ¡°big¡± character shape, the cold lines at the corner of Dugu Wu¡¯s lips softened a bit, just like when Feng Xiaoli was asleep. Dugu Wu awkwardly stuffed Dugu Xiaojin back into the quilt. For many people, night marks the end of the day, but for Dugu Wu, it was just the beginning. He mobilized the Gang Qi within his body. Since being poisoned, he did not use Gang Qi easily, but to help Xiaojin consolidate the Wuji Earth Seal, he had to use it again. The vast Gang Qi raged inside his body like a tumultuous river and waves, repeatedly battering his flesh. On Dugu Wu¡¯s forehead, the hidden Wuji Seal appeared again. The ancient, fiery red character was like the sun breaking through the mist, chasing away the darkness of dawn, albeit faintly and seemingly constantly changing. Under the influence of the powerful Gang Qi, his bones and tendons made creaking noises. At the same time, a faint tattoo appeared behind Dugu Wu, barely visible and not yet fully revealed... That surge of Gang Qi was suppressed by Dugu Wu. And with that, the tattoo disappeared. Beside him, the sleeping child muttered in his dreams. A few softer hues shone in his icy gaze. The night was long and pitch black. In the damp and cold dungeon, a man who had not eaten for days was bound with iron chains, covered in blood and unconscious. Several people approached the prison cell. ¡°One hundred taels of gold.¡± The speaker was a woman with a pleasant voice, who looked disdainfully at the young man lying on the ground. ¡°Ma¡¯am, that won¡¯t do. Someone has offered two hundred taels of gold for his life. If it weren¡¯t for your specific request, he would have to die tonight.¡± Said the person from the gambling house. ¡°Fifty taels.¡± The woman¡¯s voice remained sweet. Just as the person from the gambling house was about to reject her, the scent of blood permeated the air. The woman held a blade the size of a willow leaf in her hand, wiping the still-warm blood on it, and uttered a sentence from her pretty cherry lips. ¡°Stop pretending, I know you¡¯re awake. I¡¯m sent by your brother-in-law.¡± Brother-in-law? He doesn¡¯t have a brother-in-law! Feng Luochen suddenly opened his eyes, a flash of anger in his gaze. Chapter 89 - 89 91 Be His Brother-in-law Dugu Wu Is Not ?Chapter 89: Chapter 91 Be His Brother-in-law? Dugu Wu Is Not Qualified Chapter 89: Chapter 91 Be His Brother-in-law? Dugu Wu Is Not Qualified Feng Bailing had already heard about her broken engagement. This was indeed good news! Dongfang Li, self-righteously moral, appeared to be devoted to her sister on the surface, but behind the scenes, Feng Luochen had long discovered his flirty exchanges with Feng Xiangxue. Only the fool Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t see it. Unexpectedly, just days after the broken engagement, Feng Bailing was granted another marriage, to none other than Dugu Wu, the Ninth Prince! Who was Dugu Wu? A wife-cursing fanatic, none of his three Princess Consorts had met good ends. His sister was not only foolish but also frail. Facing Dugu Wu, she could be killed by just the flick of his little finger; he absolutely could not let that fool walk into the tiger¡¯s den. The other party was infamously ruthless. Why would he kindly come to save him unless it was to coerce Feng Bailing into marriage? In Feng Luochen¡¯s mind, a sorrowful image was painted of Feng Bailing uncomfortably forced into marriage at Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. The woman approached Feng Luochen, not on guard against him. In her eyes, he was merely a gambling-addicted wastrel. When she saw the iron chains on him, with a slight flick of her toes, she flipped his heavy body weighing over a hundred kilograms. ¡°I don¡¯t know what kind of fortune your ugly freak sister has accumulated to possibly... The woman had an oval face, willow leaf eyebrows, and ruddy lips¡ªa pretty little beauty in embryo. As she cursed Feng Bailing, the young man tied up on the ground shouted loudly. His muscles tensed with effort, surprisingly breaking the iron chains. The woman was shocked, her Willow Leaf Blade yet to strike, when she felt a tightness around her neck. The chains between Feng Luochen¡¯s hands were coiled around her throat, his strength shockingly great; let alone her neck, he could probably tear a cow in half. Feng Luochen possessed innate divine strength. To capture him, the gambling house had employed over a dozen burly men to subdue him. ¡°Who did you call an ugly freak? Say nonsense again, and I¡¯ll smash your face to pulp.¡± A rascally charm glinted across Feng Luochen¡¯s handsome face. ¡°How dare you! I am from Poison Dragon Villa; if you dare touch me, my sect will not...¡± Bang¡ªthe woman only felt a pain in the back of her head before she passed out. ¡°Others may fear Dugu Wu, but I do not. I will never let Feng Bailing marry that stupid woman.¡± Feng Luochen thought for a moment, stripped the woman of her clothes, dressed himself in them, and escaped under the cover of night. The night was deep. After tucking Feng Xiaoli to sleep, Feng Bailing gently closed the bedroom door and went to the study. The lights in the study stayed on all night. The next morning, Feng Xiangxue dressed up carefully for the Yuxiu Academy assessment. She was eager to see how Bailing would embarrass herself. Feng Ruoyan also dressed in new spring clothes, enhancing her delicate beauty. ¡°Sister Xiangxue, the fabric you have is really good, it¡¯s a pity there¡¯s only one bolt.¡± Feng Ruoyan eyed Feng Xiangxue jealously. She was wearing a red skirt, delicately woven with high-quality peacock feather silk thread, shimmering in the sunlight, very beautiful. ¡°If you like it, after I wear it a few times, I¡¯ll give it to you. You know, I¡¯ll soon be married to the Seventh Prince, and there¡¯s plenty of such fabric in his manor.¡± Feng Xiangxue spoke with pride. Hearing this, Feng Ruoyan felt somewhat uncomfortable. In the Feng Mansion, whatever Feng Xiangxue used was always the best. Not even Feng Bailing could compete with her. Feng Xiangxue would nonchalantly toss away clothes she disliked, and though Ruoyan was resentful, she never dared to voice it. After all, Feng Xiangxue¡¯s father was a Prince Consort, while her father was just a merchant, not even close to marrying a prince as a concubine, let alone meeting one. The only prince she had ever met was their male teacher, the Ninth Prince, alas he was blind, with an appearance but a dim future ahead. ¡°Thanks, Sister Xiangxue. How come Sister Bailing hasn¡¯t come out yet? She¡¯s not scared and daring not to attend the assessment, is she?¡± Feng Ruoyan was just saying this when they saw Feng Bailing coming out. Early in the morning, Feng Xiaoli had gone to the Imperial Academy. Feng Bailing had heard that Xiaoli had made friends with Dugu Xiaojin, but she hadn¡¯t yet told Xiaoli about their impending sibling relationship with him. It was good for the two young ones to interact more and develop a relationship especially since Feng Xiaoli was cheerful and Dugu Xiaojin needed such a companion. ¡°Sister Bailing, are you going to Yuxiu Academy dressed like that, without even a single piece of decent jewelry?¡± Feng Ruoyan remembered when Feng Bailing first went to Yuxiu Academy for school, dressed like an old madam from a brothel, not only wearing heavy makeup but also red skirts with green shoes, neck draped in large strings of pearls, and wrists and hands full of shining bracelets and rings. But today, Feng Bailing wore a clean jade-grey long dress, a single bamboo jade pin in her hair standing out prominently under a similarly colored scarf. It was especially striking. She looked utterly shabby. Seeing Feng Bailing dressed so simply, Feng Ruoyan scoffed. She had heard from her mother that Feng Bailing¡¯s brother had accumulated a large gambling debt, collecting silver to redeem himself; surely, Feng Bailing had sold all her jewelry. Feng Xiangxue also frowned; Feng Bailing had finally grown smarter, knowing the female teachers at Yuxiu Academy disliked lavishness. Her plain elegance earned many impression points. However, getting into Yuxiu Academy wasn¡¯t just about the attire; talent was what mattered most. What could Feng Bailing possibly excel in? Music, chess, calligraphy, painting, she was utterly clueless. Feng Xiangxue scoffed internally as the three ladies from Feng Mansion boarded the horse carriage. Chapter 90 - 90 92 Her Rival is the Examiner ?Chapter 90: Chapter 92: Her Rival is the Examiner Chapter 90: Chapter 92: Her Rival is the Examiner On the horse carriage, Feng Bailing took out a book and started flipping through it. ¡°Accounting of Great Chu? Sister Bailing, do you understand this? I remember, your accounting skills are worse than a child¡¯s.¡± Princess Feng mocked upon seeing the title of the book. Accounting here is ancient mathematics, primarily focused on addition and subtraction with less multiplication and division, which Feng Bailing understood after a few glances. Feng Bailing did not answer, Princess Feng snorted, and Feng Bailing switched to another book, this time picking up ¡°Geography of Great Chu.¡± Feng Xiangxue saw this and sneered internally; what use is cramming at the last minute, she is still bound to fail. Especially with accounting, which cannot be learned overnight. Unlike other women¡¯s academies that only teach the arts, Yuxiu Academy believes that women should follow their father before marriage and their husband after marriage, managing both domestic and external affairs. Understanding accounting allows a woman to manage a household effectively. Exiting the city and traveling half a mile further, they reached a large lake, with the Imperial Academy on one shore and Yuxiu Academy on the other. At the Imperial Academy side, willows were planted densely along the shore, swaying gracefully in the spring breeze, a truly captivating sight. On Yuxiu Academy¡¯s side, however, the ground was covered with peach and apricot trees. In spring, pink peach blossoms and white apricot blossoms filled the air with a floral rain. More than usual, today, due to Yuxiu Academy¡¯s examinations, there were many carriages and people. Those girls holding recommendation letters from official families, dressed extravagantly and accompanied by their families, came to enroll. Others dressed simply, their faces marked with anxiety, were commoner girls coming from various places to take the exams. Passing the exams at Yuxiu Academy meant one had almost stepped into the upper echelons of Great Chu society. Among the crowd, there were also numerous young men. They were spectators of the female candidates; Yuxiu Academy gathered the most outstanding women of Great Chu who were usually kept secluded, and today was a rare opportunity to see them as the Academy opened its doors for the examination. Some noble ladies also crowded to watch; they were there to scout potential future daughters-in-law for their sons. ¡°Look quickly, it¡¯s a carriage from the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± As soon as the carriage from the Princess¡¯ Mansion came to a halt, there was a stir in the crowd. ¡°Feng Mansion has two beauties, it¡¯s a pity, Feng Xiangxue has already been betrothed to the Seventh Prince. Thankfully, the fifth lady is yet to be married, just being able to see her is a rare fortune for us.¡± ¡°The reason so many people are here today is because the Crown Princess Consort Nalan Yan¡¯er is also coming; I heard she¡¯s one of the examiners this year, I am a loyal supporter of hers.¡± ¡°Vulgar, you people only have eyes for women. Unlike you, I¡¯m not here to see the so-called top beauties; I¡¯m here for Feng Sanwu.¡± ¡°Feng Sanwu? Brother, your taste is quite something, what are you after, her ugliness, her illiteracy?¡± ¡°I¡¯m betting on her to fail the exam; I¡¯ve staked five ¡®Silver¡¯ on this at odds of one to one hundred twenty-five.¡± ¡°If I were Feng Bailing, I wouldn¡¯t even come today, to avoid making a fool of myself.¡± Laughter erupted from the crowd. But suddenly, the laughter was abruptly cut off. A horse carriage came to a silent stop, and a man alighted. Even though he was using a cane, his bearing, strong like a pine or cypress, still drew everyone¡¯s attention. His eyes swept over the crowd, and those men who had been speaking felt as though their throats were being strangled, unable to speak, their faces turning red. ¡°Sir, you aren¡¯t here to avenge Princess Feng, are you?¡± Feng Wan glanced at those young masters and felt his lord¡¯s imposing presence growing more dominant. ¡°Before, on the battlefield, as soon as I took the field, I made the enemy soldiers limp in their hands and feet. Today, I¡¯ve rendered someone dumbstruck!¡± ¡°They are too noisy.¡± Dugu Wu, unhurriedly, headed towards Yuxiu Academy. ¡°It¡¯s clear that he¡¯s siding with Princess Feng, yet he¡¯s also learned to say one thing and mean another!¡± Feng Wan muttered to himself, not daring to say these words out loud, hurriedly scurrying after Dugu Wu. Feng Xiangxue approached the entrance of the courtyard, smiling and speaking to Feng Bailing. ¡°Sister Bailing, I heard that the examination at Yuxiu Academy will be at Wangyue Pavilion. Xiangxue and I are going to attend classes, and you can rest assured that the Crown Princess Consort has also become an examiner this time. I¡¯ve already spoken to her; if she encounters you, she will definitely not make things difficult for you.¡± ¡°Then I really have to thank you.¡± Feng Bailing smiled insincerely, and it seemed her exam today wouldn¡¯t be simple. After parting with Feng Xiangxue and the others, she didn¡¯t immediately head to Wangyue Pavilion but instead wandered around the open space outside Yuxiu Academy where horse carriages were parked. It wasn¡¯t until she found an impressive-looking horse carriage that Feng Bailing, without any rush, approached it, casually slipped a piece of paper into the carriage, and then walked towards Yuxiu Academy. ¡°Bailing, we¡¯ve finally waited for you.¡± Feng Bailing had just reached the entrance of the courtyard when someone blocked her path. Ouyang Chenchen looked a bit fatter than the day of registration. ¡°The delicacies from Chuyue Tower truly live up to their reputation. After eating there yesterday, I gained another seven pounds.¡± Ouyang Chenchen looked around covertly to make sure no one was nearby, then lowered her voice. ¡°I tell you, I spent a lot of money to get the exam questions. Today¡¯s first round examines accounting, the second round is a talent performance, and only for the third round, it¡¯s said to be by drawing lots so we can¡¯t know ahead of time. I tell you, I have the answer for the first question on accounting; we will definitely pass the exam.¡± Ouyang Chenchen reported the topics and answers. The two walked together into Yuxiu Academy. It had been only a few years since Feng Bailing was expelled from Yuxiu Academy, yet she still remembered the layout very clearly. Yuxiu Academy, unlike the spacious and grandeur of the Imperial Academy, featured exquisitely delicate pavilions and lodges. The area was divided into Spring Garden, Summer Garden, Qiujju, and Winter Tower; Wangyue Pavilion was located between Summer Garden and Qiujju. The pavilion had seven floors, with colorful curtains on each floor, resembling a pagoda with a pointed spire. Feng Bailing and Ouyang Chenchen were delayed on the road and when they arrived, the other civilian female students attending the examination had already gathered here. Hundreds of desks were already properly arranged, each equipped with brush, ink, inkstone, and a stack of papers. Feng Bailing immediately noticed Nalan Yan¡¯er standing at the foremost row of desks. Nalan Yan¡¯er was slimmer than the average woman, dressed today in an elegant, pale yellow silk-gauze skirt, with a green chiffon scarf in hand, and light yellow Yulan Flowers embellishing her temples, creating an ethereal appearance. The young girls who saw Nalan Yan¡¯er were both envious and admiring. Nalan Yan¡¯er also saw Feng Bailing in the crowd. Strangely, Feng Bailing had undergone a transformation since returning from the Other Manor; in Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes, her outfit today was just perfect. ¡°Ladies, I am Nalan Yan¡¯er, once a student of Yuxiu Academy. Today, by the invitation of the dean, I am here to administer the first round of today¡¯s assessment, which involves accounting.¡± As soon as Nalan Yan¡¯er had announced it, many in the crowd showed expressions of joy. ¡°In the time it takes one stick of incense to burn, those who can complete this accounting problem and get the correct answer will proceed to the second floor of Wangyue Pavilion for the second round of the exam.¡± After Nalan Yan¡¯er finished speaking, she had someone light a stick of incense and instructed another to read out the question. Chapter 91 - 91 93 Cheating Incident ?Chapter 91: Chapter 93: Cheating Incident Chapter 91: Chapter 93: Cheating Incident ¡°There was once a famine, and the great benefactor of the village donated one hundred steamed buns to the hundred monks in the temple. The head monk ate four steamed buns, and four young monks shared one steamed bun. Question: How many senior and junior monks are there in the temple?¡± As soon as the question was raised, some of the female students immediately began to write. Other female students were, however, at a loss. Most of them came from poor families and had not bought the answers. Even if they had learned some rudimentary accounting, they were only adept at addition and subtraction. This problem couldn¡¯t be solved with just addition and subtraction, not even the ¡®Da Chu Mathematical Classic¡¯ contained such a complex method... In the Spring Garden, young maidens all blushed, gazing at the pavilion in the center. It was a hexagonal pavilion, and the stone table inside had just been lit with a Boshan Incense Burner. The man had set up his zither; his face was as clear as jade, dressed in a blue robe, his nearly flawless fingers lightly plucked at the strings, creating a tinkling sound. ¡°The first class is ancient zither. If I had known that the Seventh Prince would be the new teacher for horseback riding and archery this year, I would have chosen the archery class.¡± Feng Xiangxue flipped through the new timetable she had just received; sitting next to her was the Princess Anyang, who had had a conflict with Feng Bailing at Chuyue Tower a few days ago. Dugu Wu had injured his leg and would not be teaching the horseback riding and archery class this year. The face of Princess Anyang suddenly changed. ¡°What a Feng Bailing. I knew it, how could a person like Prince Wu be willing to marry her? It must have been against his will. You and the Seventh Prince have a mutual affection, how could you possibly be just a concubine? It must be her doing.¡± Because of Nalan Yan¡¯er, although Feng Xiangxue was just an adopted daughter of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she had a good relationship with many of the ladies from Yuxiu Academy, especially with Princess Anyang, with whom she exchanged handkerchiefs. Feng Xiangxue had been aware of Princess Anyang¡¯s affection for Dugu Wu for some time. ¡°But, I¡¯ve heard that Feng Bailing doesn¡¯t win the favor of Princess Consort Shun. After all, how she treated Prince Wu¡¯s sister back then. They say that if she can¡¯t get into Yuxiu Academy, Princess Consort Shun will definitely not let her in.¡± As they were speaking, Yuxiu Academy¡¯s ancient bell rang three times, its sound spreading throughout the Academy. The first examination had ended. As the bell stopped ringing, the female students handed in their answers. Nalan Yan¡¯er noticed that the paper Feng Bailing handed in was clean, not showing any signs of calculation. ¡°Ladies, please wait a moment. Tea has been set up in the corridor. The list will be announced in a quarter-hour, and those who pass will proceed to the second floor for the next round of assessment.¡± A quarter-hour later, before the list was published, a female teacher came out. ¡°Number nine, number thirteen, number seventeen, number twenty-one...¡± More than one hundred numbers were called out, and the female students whose numbers were announced all showed happy expressions. The numbers of Feng Bailing and Ouyang Chenchen were not called out. ¡°All of the aforementioned, please collect your belongings, you may leave now.¡± As soon as the words of the female teacher fell, the previously elated female students were stunned ¨C hadn¡¯t they passed the examination? ¡°Teacher, all of our answers are correct, why must we leave?¡± One bold female student spoke out in dissatisfaction. ¡°You cheated during the examination. By the rules of Yuxiu Academy, cheaters will never be admitted.¡± The female teacher¡¯s gaze was icy cold. Every year, there are students who have no respect for the law, trying to cut corners. This year, to prevent cheating, the academy had people sell fake answers at high prices in the streets. They sold the answers for one thousand taels each, over one hundred copies were sold. ¡°Your answers are identical to the fake ones; you all cheated.¡± The female students were left with flushed faces and embarrassment; none dared to linger, all scurried away hastily. ¡°The next announcement is for those who have passed the exam. This time, a total of seventy-two people have passed the first round of accounting.¡± The female teacher published a new list of names. ¡°I passed, and so did you. It¡¯s all thanks to your advice not to use the answers, thank heavens, I nearly got disqualified.¡± Ouyang Chenchen saw her own and Feng Bailing¡¯s number and was brimming with joy. Half an hour ago, just as Ouyang Chenchen bragged to Feng Bailing about having the answers, Feng Bailing whispered to her. ¡°If you trust me, don¡¯t use that set of answers. It¡¯s a trap set by Yuxiu Academy specifically to catch cheaters.¡± The moment Ouyang Chenchen mentioned purchasing answers, Feng Bailing recalled an incident from Chu City. That year, aside from the scandal of her broken engagement and the decline of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, a major event took place¡ªcheating at Yuxiu Academy. To eradicate cheating, the dean pulled a big move by releasing fake answers to the public, resulting in over one hundred female students being permanently stripped of their admission rights, shaking the whole Great Chu. At the time, Feng Bailing was an outsider, but now she was experiencing it firsthand, leaving her with a deep impression of the academy¡¯s dean¡ªa cunning figure who made a profit and easily taught a lesson to cheating students. Upon hearing this, Ouyang Chenchen didn¡¯t suspect anything and immediately believed Feng Bailing. ¡°But if you¡¯re so skilled in accounting, why would you buy answers?¡± Feng Bailing was somewhat surprised. The fact that Ouyang Chenchen also passed with flying colors meant her scholarship must be pretty good. ¡°I¡¯m not saying I can¡¯t do it, I¡¯m just too lazy to think. Rather than taxing my brain, I¡¯d prefer to eat and sleep more; life should be enjoyed when you can. If it weren¡¯t for the chance of studying alongside you, I wouldn¡¯t bother with calculations at all.¡± Ouyang Chenchen stuck out her tongue playfully. ¡°Feng Bailing actually passed as well.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er saw Feng Bailing¡¯s number on the list and was astonished. She didn¡¯t make a single calculation, so how could she have possibly gotten the answers? But indeed, Feng Bailing¡¯s answer sheet was confidently marked with ¡°twenty, eighty.¡± Not only Feng Bailing, but the young girl who came with her also passed. Nalan Yan¡¯er had someone fetch the paper from that student named Ouyang Chenchen, filled to the brim with two pages of calculations. Their seats were quite close; it must be that Feng Bailing sneaked a peek at the other¡¯s answer sheet. What luck Feng Bailing has. Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s beautiful eyes narrowed slightly, but then she thought of the second round. ¡°Feng Bailing, I am curious to see how long your luck will last.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er sneered. Feng Bailing and Ouyang Chenchen, along with the rest of the female students who passed the first round, went on to the second floor. ¡°The second round is a talent assessment. To ensure fairness, Yuxiu Academy has stipulated that only academy-provided equipment may be used for the assessment. You may select equipment before participating in the second round.¡± The students looked ahead. The second floor was draped with orange gauze curtains, not filled with desks like the first floor ¨C rather, it resembled a small storage room, with a collection including ancient zithers, guzhengs, pipas, flutes, bianzhongs, dingqings, and other instruments. There were also chessboards, brushes, inks, and inkstones, and even some dance props, a dazzling array of choices. ¡°Ten students per group, please come forward in the order of your numbers and select the equipment you¡¯ll use.¡± The female teacher spoke, and ten female students went up first, with Ouyang Chenchen among them. Ouyang Chenchen glanced at the ancient zither, shook her head, then considered the brush, ink, and inkstone, and shook her head again. ¡°Being a maiden of Great Chu really is difficult, so many things for show but not practical.¡± Just as she was speaking, her eyes lit up as she spotted something. Feng Bailing seemed thoughtful, picking up an item. Chapter 92 - 92 94 Unique Skills ?Chapter 92: Chapter 94 Unique Skills Chapter 92: Chapter 94 Unique Skills At the top level of Wangyue Pavilion, a purple gauze curtain hung. This place was not usually open to students, but after Nalan Yan¡¯er completed the first round of assessments, she ascended the stairs. Upon reaching the top level, she was stopped by someone. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, the dean and Prince Wu are playing chess. Outsiders are not allowed to enter without permission.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er frowned slightly. The dean of Yuxiu Academy was no ordinary person either. Her identity and background were highly mysterious. It was said that she had once rendered a great service to the late Emperor and was in possession of an imperial pardon, which meant that even Emperor Yongye would show her a measure of deference upon meeting her. Nalan Yan¡¯er bit her lip lightly and looked inside with a grieving gaze through the purple curtain, managing to catch a glimpse of two people sitting opposite each other. One of them, with a posture as steadfast as pines and cypresses, was precisely the person she had been yearning for. The beautiful woman looked to be in her thirties at most, with eyes brimming with wisdom that seemed to have weathered the vicissitudes of time and penetrated the illusions of the mortal world. A white chess piece dropped from her fingers onto the chessboard. With a clack, Dugu Wu placed a black piece, and with just that one move, the situation on the chessboard changed drastically. Within the chess game, Dugu Wu captured several pieces in succession. ¡°Yuxiu Academy is a decent place for seclusion. But it¡¯s curious, why did you, the dean, who has always been reluctant to accept disciples, suddenly change your mind?¡± Dugu Wu knew that his leg wouldn¡¯t heal within a year. Though he had handed over military power, Emperor Yongye still hoped he would take up a significant position in the court. With the Old Grand Preceptor growing old, Emperor Yongye assigned him to assist the Old Grand Preceptor at the Ministry of Revenue, but that stubborn old man disagreed with him on many things. Not wanting to stay at the Ministry of Revenue, he simply came to Yuxiu Academy to teach. Yuxiu Academy was quite close to the Imperial Academy. After class, he could pick up Xiaojin and bring her back home, which was quite nice. ¡°I divined recently and predicted that a great calamity will befall us soon. Having a disciple could provide someone to attend to my remains.¡± The beautiful woman said with a smile. She spoke casually, as if life and death were of no concern to her, prompting Dugu Wu to glance sidelong. The woman was skilled in both literature and martial arts, a truly fascinating figure. Her divinations were always accurate. Dugu Wu couldn¡¯t help feeling a touch of regret. He and the dean had formed a friendship that transcended age. The first time he went into battle, his lack of experience almost led to his capture deep behind enemy lines, until the dean happened by and saved him. She taught him military strategies, and within a few years, he rapidly grew into the Ninth Prince, a figure feared on the battlefield. He had been without parents from a young age and had never even seen his mother. To him, the dean was a teacher, a friend, and a mother. So, when she asked him to take up a post as a teacher at Yuxiu Academy years ago, he agreed despite his reluctance. He knew the dean¡¯s temperament well¡ªshe was not one for many words, and he did not ask further. ¡°Since you are selecting a closed-door disciple, why choose from among the commoner girls? There must be many in Yuxiu Academy who wish to take you as their master?¡± Dugu Wu remembered, a few years ago, when Nalan Yan¡¯er first entered Yuxiu Academy, Grandmaster Nalan had tried several times to persuade the dean to take Nalan Yan¡¯er as her disciple. But the dean had refused. Even Nalan Yan¡¯er failed to catch her eye, so were there really suitable candidates among this group of female students? ¡°Those ladies, though intelligent, are all too polished. What I seek in a disciple is uncut jade. Uncut jade, like stone, must be able to endure the erosion of wind and sun to withstand the impending storms of blood and chaos.¡± The Dean nodded after finishing speaking, indicating Dugu Wu to stand up. ¡°We¡¯re going to take a look and see how many of these stones are carveable.¡± The Dean led Dugu Wu to a hidden door. Upon opening it, they found stairs leading to the floors below. By the time they reached the second floor, a tea room was set with chairs and tea already prepared. A screen was placed at the front. The screen was ingeniously made; from the outside looking in, one could only see the landscape painting on it. But from the inside looking out, the scene beyond the screen was clearly visible. A flute melody had just ended, and a female student who had finished performing bowed respectfully and then retired. The second round of assessments was still ongoing. Though there were over a hundred participants, the talents displayed were largely the same: dance, ancient zither, flute, guzheng were still the top choices for most, with a few showing calligraphy and painting¡ªnone particularly novel. With the performances so similar, it was quite a challenge for the three female teachers acting as examiners to eliminate half to advance to the next round. At this moment, another female student stepped forward. She performed a Rainbow Dance, a very popular court dance in Great Chu. Unfortunately, two other female students had performed the same dance before her. ¡°In terms of dance, it is Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s dance that is exceptional. No one in Yuxiu Academy can compare with her. If we really have to compare, only the Wu sisters from the Chen Dynasty could give her a run for her money. Alas, they too have gone astray, thinking dance was merely for pleasure, not realizing that in the hands of the skillful, dance can be a deadly weapon.¡± The Dean had seen Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s dance and found the performances of these female students considerably inferior. Dugu Wu had heard of the Wu sisters; they were a pair of female assassins who ultimately died under a barrage of arrows. Was the comparison with Nalan Yan¡¯er just a coincidence? While Dugu Wu pondered this, a voice full of vigor was heard. ¡°My name is Ouyang Chenchen, and my talent is in carving.¡± Ouyang Chenchen emerged from the crowd, holding a radish and a carving knife in her hand. The corners of the mouths of the three main female teachers twitched, not having the chance to ask where she got the radish before Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s carving knife began to dance in her hand, the radish quickly taking a new form in just a few moments. Within half a quarter of an hour, the radish had been carved into a well-crafted camellia. The carved flower had distinct petals as thin as paper, and its veins were lifelike, hardly distinguishable from a real flower. The three teachers hesitated, then, after whispering amongst themselves, indicated that Ouyang Chenchen could step down. ¡°How about that, my skills aren¡¯t bad, right? I spent a month in the imperial kitchens...I mean, in our kitchen at home, and cut all ten fingers before learning this.¡± Ouyang Chenchen, full of pride, returned to the side of Feng Bailing. Others may prick their fingers while embroidering; Ouyang Chenchen had cut hers while carving... Following Ouyang Chenchen was Feng Bailing¡¯s turn. Among the previous seventy to eighty people, fifteen played the ancient zither, ten the flute, thirteen the guzheng, eight the pipa, and then there were ten dancers... Feng Bailing suddenly felt an unknown gaze upon her. Without looking to find the source, she picked up a suona from among the instruments. Dugu Wu unconsciously trembled while holding his tea cup. Feng Bailing wasn¡¯t planning to... She puffed out her cheeks and positioned herself, with breath sinking into her dantian, the sound of the suona suddenly soared to the sky. After listening to the soft and fluffy sounds of zither and flute that nearly put the sleepy Dean to doze, she was about to sip her tea for a pick-me-up when a loud suona note caused her to spray the tea out of her mouth. Chapter 93 - 93 95 Astonishing Debut (Part 1) ?Chapter 93: Chapter 95: Astonishing Debut (Part 1) Chapter 93: Chapter 95: Astonishing Debut (Part 1) Inside the Spring Garden, the sound of the ancient zither tinkled, and a group of female scholars were immersed in the flowing sound of the music like a babbling stream. The sudden sound of the suona even made the usually composed Ninth Prince¡¯s zither strings pause for an instant. The sound came drifting from Wangyue Pavilion, and all the other female students started to murmur in their hearts. ¡°Who is so blind as to play the suona during an examination?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not like it¡¯s a funeral; this person is bound to fail spectacularly.¡± Feng Xiangxue¡¯s expression was displeased, silently cursing that the female student was truly crude. One must know that among the world¡¯s many instruments, the suona is indeed an instrument, but difficult to present in refined company, not to mention the female scholars; nobody wanted to touch that thing. The sound of the suona continued to spread out of Yuxiu Academy. A man accompanied by a servant just happened to walk by, and upon hearing the sound of the suona, his face changed dramatically. ¡°Is there such a master in Yuxiu Academy? The man¡¯s complexion was sallow, as if he had just recovered from a serious illness, and his features were unremarkable. He only wore plain hemp clothing, yet he stood tall, half a head higher than any other sons of nobility from Great Chu present, with eyes as deep and inscrutable as ancient wells, unfathomable at a glance. ¡°My lord, could it be the headmistress of Yuxiu Academy?¡± the servant whispered in a low voice. It was rumored that the headmistress of Yuxiu Academy was an extraordinary hermit, and the female students she taught were also no ordinary individuals. The legendary Crown Princess Consort of Great Chu was also a student from Yuxiu Academy. He and his lord had disguised themselves to come to Great Chu, and on a whim, his lord wished to meet the other party. ¡°It is the one playing the suona. Just by the sound of the music alone, one can feel invigorated. If used in military matters, it could even boost morale more than war drums. Go and inquire who played this piece.¡± Admiration gleamed in the man¡¯s eyes; he must find a way to acquire this person! The servant vanished into the crowd. The sound of the suona not only traveled outside the academy but also reached the horse training grounds. On the horse training grounds under the spring sky, dozens of horses in various colors stood side by side with dozens of young girls dressed in riding outfits. The girls were lively and carefree, and the horses were stout and robust, together forming a picturesque scene. Different from Feng Xiangxue, Feng Ruoyan did not choose the ancient zither class but instead chose horseback riding and archery. The moment she laid eyes on the new male teacher, she couldn¡¯t help but blush. To Feng Ruoyan¡¯s chagrin, she quickly realized that this man was the Seventh Prince, Dongfang Li, Feng Xiangxue¡¯s future husband. Feng Ruoyan had just mounted her horse when it was spooked, and in her panic, she saw Dongfang Li drop down from above; his low, husky voice brushed past her ear. She instinctively wrapped her arms around the man¡¯s sturdy waist, and his robust masculine scent enveloped her. Dongfang Li looked down at the girl in his arms; her face was as delicate as peach blossoms, exuding the beauty of a maiden harboring the flush of spring. At the end of the performance, Feng Bailing bowed in salute. ¡°Are you Feng Bailing?¡± One of the three female teachers recognized Feng Bailing. ¡°It is I, the student.¡± Feng Bailing remembered that this woman was the vice president and had once been her ancient zither teacher. Feng Bailing recognized another of the female teachers; it was Princess Consort Guo whom she had met once in the Imperial Palace. The other merely gave her a cold glance without speaking. Feng Bailing¡¯s luck was not good; she inwardly lamented. This vice president had never looked at her favorably since the time Feng Bailing had damaged her cherished ancient zither during her lesson. With Princess Consort Guo¡¯s attitude also very cold, and two out of the three examiners holding a grudge against her, Feng Bailing truly felt anxious for herself. ¡°Vulgarity is unbearable. Yuxiu Academy is a hall of great elegance; your Suona music, so unpleasant to the ear, does not suit Yuxiu Academy.¡± The Vice Dean looked on with disfavor. Before the exam, her disciple Nalan Yan¡¯er had informed her that Feng Bailing¡¯s engagement had been returned by the Royal Family, and re-entering Yuxiu Academy was to marry into the Prince Mansion. She had always looked down upon women who only sought to climb socially. She had been the Vice Dean at Yuxiu Academy for decades and had not come across a suitable man, so why should Feng Bailing? It was all because she had a Princess for a mother. ¡°Vice Dean, why should there be a distinction between elegance and vulgarity in talents? Why should there be a hierarchy of nobility and lowliness between the Suona and the ancient zither, since both are musical instruments? They should be appreciated both by the refined and the common.¡± No sooner had Feng Bailing finished speaking than a burst of applause was heard. ¡°What an idea of shared enjoyment by all, to play the Suona with the feel of military music. Indeed, it¡¯s a skill of no small merit.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er was turned away at the seventh floor, unable to wait for Dugu Wu, and could only descend the stairs. Just arriving at the second floor, she heard this sentence. Her heart tightened. Dugu Wu actually praised Feng Bailing? To think that her own Jinghong Dance had only elicited a mere ¡°passable¡± from Dugu Wu, and now he was praising Feng Bailing¡¯s Suona music as being of no small skill? The man stepped out from behind the screen. When Dugu Wu first heard the sound of the Suona, his reaction was like the Vice Dean and the others¡¯. But he was no ordinary person; upon listening carefully, he could hear the uniqueness in the music¡ªhigh-pitched and poignant, with an extremely beautiful timbre that invigorated the spirit and even stirred the Gang Qi within him. This piece of music was undeniably extraordinary. Feng Bailing actually understood how to use music to uplift people¡¯s spirits? Dugu Wu was taken aback internally. Before he could ponder further, Feng Bailing had finished playing. In terms of music theory, Dugu Wu¡¯s attainment was on par with the Ninth Prince, a presence revered even by the Dean. The Vice Dean¡¯s face turned even less pleasant. ¡°What do both of you think?¡± Dugu Wu was not the examiner for this round. After a moment¡¯s hesitation, Princess Consort Guo glanced at Dugu Wu, and after whispering a few words to the female teacher beside her, agreed to let Feng Bailing pass the assessment. Upon hearing this, the Vice Dean¡¯s face grew even uglier. Nalan Yan¡¯er quickly stepped forward to speak. ¡°Vice Dean, the Dean has just sent word that it¡¯s getting late. After selecting fifty qualified students, we will proceed to the third round of the assessment. The third round will be personally examined by the Dean.¡± The Vice Dean thought to herself that Princess Consort Guo and the other female teacher must have given face to Dugu Wu. It was just as well; in the third round, the Dean would personally examine, and by then, it would be impossible for Dugu Wu to even try to intervene. In the second round of talent performances, nearly half of the female students were eliminated, and the remaining fifty had even graver expressions. The third round would be an examination by the Dean herself, and no one knew what the Dean would test them on. ¡°Dean, the ancient zither is ready.¡± The Vice Dean stepped forward and ordered people to move an ancient zither behind the screen. Feng Bailing noticed that Dugu Wu had emerged from behind the screen, which must mean the female Dean was behind there as well. Although she had studied at Yuxiu Academy for a few months, Feng Bailing had never met the Dean before, only hearing some legendary tales about her. She had founded Yuxiu Academy herself, making it one of the few famous female academies in the world, and had nurtured countless talents. ¡°Ladies, to have passed both the first and second rounds, you are all already outstanding. For the third round, I won¡¯t make it difficult for you. I¡¯ll play a piece, and after listening, speak your feelings.¡± From behind the screen came a gentle female voice. Chapter 94 - 94 96 Astonishing Debut (Part 2) ?Chapter 94: Chapter 96: Astonishing Debut (Part 2) Chapter 94: Chapter 96: Astonishing Debut (Part 2) ¡°Just to listen to the melody and express feelings?¡± After listening, the female students all showed delighted expressions. Most of the people present were well-versed in music theory and had heard various ancient melodies, so listening to the music was not a difficult task for them. It was Ouyang Chenchen who scratched her head. ¡°I don¡¯t understand music theory, this is going to be troublesome.¡± ¡°Listening to music doesn¡¯t necessarily require expertise in music theory. You just need to savor it carefully ¨C being able to resonate with the performer is enough.¡± Feng Bailing smiled. ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve heard the head of the academy play the zither herself; these female students are really lucky.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er, standing beside Dugu Wu, was astonished. Yuxiu Academy has no shortage of people skilled in zither, nowadays the best in terms of zither skills is the Deputy Head, followed by the Ninth Prince. But in reality, the best in zither skills is the Head of the Academy. ¡°Whether they are lucky or not remains to be seen. The Head of the Academy refrains from discussing the zither because a true connoisseur is hard to find.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s strange eyes flickered. He had once heard the academy head play the zither, and her music was like mountains and flowing water, distinct from ordinary people. Behind the screen, a beautiful woman plucked the zither strings, playing an ancient tune that was melodious and gentle, the sound of the zither as if a feather lightly touching people¡¯s heartstrings. After the melody ended, the female students looked at each other, even the Deputy Head and people like Nalan Yan¡¯er were astonished in their hearts. This melody, none of them had ever heard it before. Dugu Wu glanced at Feng Bailing. The twists and turns of this melody, someone who has not experienced the life or death of a battlefield, I am afraid would truly be unable to comprehend. ¡°Deputy Head, give them each a sheet of paper, let them write out their feelings after listening, limited to fifty words.¡± The Head of the Academy yawned. The Deputy Head had desks brought over, asking the female students to step forward one by one and write down their impressions. When it was Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s turn, she grasped the pen and frowned for quite a while, remembering Feng Bailing¡¯s words about resonance, she simply picked up the pen and wrote down a few lines. Feng Bailing stepped forward, wrote a few lines; fifty responses, all sent behind the screen. ¡°Today¡¯s assessment has ended. The final ten people will be announced in half an hour; everyone may wait outside Yuxiu Academy.¡± The Deputy Head signaled the female students to leave first. When leaving Wangyue Pavilion, Ouyang Chenchen stretched lazily. ¡°Bailing, let¡¯s go eat something delicious, I¡¯m about to faint from hunger.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you concerned about the assessment results?¡± ¡°What¡¯s the use of being concerned? That piece of zither music, no one has heard before, it¡¯s probably composed by the Head herself. Although I don¡¯t enjoy listening to music, I have heard all sorts of melodies at home.¡± Feng Bailing saw the other female students around her discussing the ancient melody they had just heard; it seems they truly had not heard it before. However, she had heard that ancient zither music. It was a very famous pipa melody called ¡°Ten Sides Ambush¡±, which indeed had never existed in Great Chu. This piece, Feng Bailing had only heard it in the 22nd century; by rights, no one in Great Chu should know it. Yet the Head played it, but her version was not complete. The complete ¡°Ten Sides Ambush¡± has thirteen sections, including setting camp, blowing, striking, and more. The Head only played a part of it. How could the Head have heard ¡°Ten Sides Ambush¡±? ¡°What feelings did you write down?¡± Feng Bailing asked casually. ¡°It¡¯s annoying, what time is it already, it¡¯s holding up my meal.¡± Ouyang Chenchen thought to herself, since she couldn¡¯t really make out any feelings anyway, just feeling it was about time for a meal, the Head of the Academy must be hungry as well, so she wrote just that. Feng Bailing smiled wryly. As they spoke, they had already neared the Spring Garden. Near dusk, with the morning glow spread across the sky, they saw the female students from the Yuxiu Academy walking in twos and threes under the sunset. Feng Bailing and Ouyang Chenchen had walked a few steps when they saw, not far ahead, Princess Consort Guo walking together with a young woman. Upon seeing Feng Bailing, the young woman looked terrified and hastily hid behind Princess Consort Guo. Princess Consort Guo gave Feng Bailing a harsh glare, comforted the young woman with a few words, and quickly left. Feng Bailing felt that the young woman looked somewhat familiar but couldn¡¯t recall who she was at the moment. ¡°Sister Ling, how did you do on the exam?¡± Feng Xiangxue approached, her eyes showing a trace of disdain when she saw Ouyang Chenchen. Feng Bailing really lacked discernment; now that she was at least a Commandery Princess, she should be more careful about who she befriends. This woman, with her obesity and rude manners, is obviously of low birth. ¡°Xiangxue, why bother asking her? I¡¯ve heard already, the assistant dean said she¡¯s not fit for elegant company.¡± Princess Anyang displayed an arrogant demeanor, walking over with several noble young ladies. She had inquired immediately after school, and although Feng Bailing had luckily passed the first round, she¡¯d disgraced herself in the second. If not for someone pleading on her behalf, she would have been eliminated already. ¡°Sister Ling, you¡¯ve been too careless; how did you manage to anger the assistant dean again? Even if commoner female students pass the exam, they need to be accepted under the tutelage of a specific teacher. Having offended the assistant dean, I¡¯m afraid no teacher would dare to take you in. Then, even if you pass the assessment, you won¡¯t be able to enter the academy.¡± Feng Xiangxue said with a face full of pity. Female students without a recommendation letter need to be taken under the wing of a teacher to officially become Yuxiu Academy students. Feng Bailing was unaware of this previously, as she had a recommendation letter when she first enrolled. Similar to the students at the Imperial Academy seeking a future by apprenticeship under high-ranking officials in the court, Yuxiu Academy also has the concept of mentorship. There are generally two types of apprenticeships: one where a student¡¯s exceptional talent is recognized and they are proactively taken in. The other is through connections and substantial gifts to be accepted. ¡°It¡¯s all my fault; I should have reminded you earlier.¡± Feng Xiangxue blamed herself. Seeing Dongfang Li and Nalan Yan¡¯er approaching, her eyes glanced around. ¡°Sister Nalan, I have a favor to ask. I hope you can, for my sake, help Sister Ling apologize to the assistant dean.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er had planned to wait for Dugu Wu, but he had gone to the Imperial Academy to pick up Dugu Xiaojin. Lately, Dugu Wu was paying even more attention to Dugu Xiaojin. ¡°Xiangxue, why would you bother asking for her, this kind of person?¡± Dongfang Li couldn¡¯t stand the sight of Feng Xiangxue being aggrieved; he helped her up and spoke harshly towards Feng Bailing. ¡°Feng Bailing, Xiangxue has been sincerely kind to you, yet you¡¯ve made things difficult for her time after time. Apologize to her at once.¡± Before Feng Bailing could reply, Ouyang Chenchen was already indignant. ¡°Are you deaf? When has Bai Ling asked for her help? A dog trying to catch mice ¨C always meddling in others¡¯ affairs ¨C get lost.¡± Ouyang Chenchen, without saying another word, forcefully bumped into Dongfang Li. Dongfang Li became irritated and wanted to push Ouyang Chenchen away but found that upon bumping into her, her stance was as steady as Mount Tai. In contrast, Dongfang Li himself was pushed back several steps and ended up seated on the ground. ¡°Seventh Prince!¡± With two cries of alarm, they saw Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan one on each side, coming to support Dongfang Li. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face slightly changed color as she glanced at Feng Ruoyan. Under the warning look from Feng Xiangxue, Feng Ruoyan quickly withdrew her hand. ¡°Xiangxue, I can¡¯t help you with this; otherwise, it would be unfair to the other female students.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er gently shook her head, her tone revealing a hint of regret. ¡°Princess Shengping has been eliminated in the third round. The list of ten has already been chosen, and the assistant dean will announce it shortly.¡± Chapter 95 - 95 97 This Misunderstanding is Somewhat Big ?Chapter 95: Chapter 97 This Misunderstanding is Somewhat Big Chapter 95: Chapter 97 This Misunderstanding is Somewhat Big Nalan Yan¡¯er retorted with a smile towards Ouyang Chenchen. ¡°You are Ouyang Chenchen, right? The dean praised your answer profusely and said she wanted to take you as her disciple.¡± Upon hearing this, Ouyang Chenchen was dumbfounded. Is the dean also hungry and flustered? ¡°Was she taken as a disciple by the dean?¡± Both Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan showed signs of envy; not to mention them, even Nalan Yan¡¯er was envious of Ouyang Chenchen, who had initially wanted to become a disciple of the dean but had been declined. This Ouyang Chenchen, looking naive and bulky with a simple mind, was actually favored by the dean. ¡°Just me alone? That won¡¯t do; I¡¯ll go find the dean. Either Bai Ling and I both join the academy, or we both leave.¡± Ouyang Chenchen, no longer caring about her hunger, ran back to Wangyue Pavilion. Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes carried a hint of mockery. The dean had always been fair; how could she just listen to Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s side of the story? ¡°Princess Shengping, you can try again next year but next time, you must prepare your talents. I¡¯m not sure if Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion is willing to wait another year.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er said with pity ¨C the suona is noisy and disruptive, just like Feng Bailing, who is annoying. Just as Nalan Yan¡¯er finished speaking, she saw Prince Wu and Dugu Xiaojin approaching from a distance. ¡°A year or two, it doesn¡¯t matter; this prince is willing to wait, so there¡¯s no need for the Crown Princess Consort to worry.¡± A cold male voice interrupted Nalan Yan¡¯er. Faced with the setting sun, Prince Wu was bathed in a golden glow, the evening light making him look like a celestial being, not of this world. Behind him, Dugu Xiaojin also appeared remarkably handsome; this father and son duo was a sight difficult to turn away from. Seeing Feng Bailing, Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyes brightened. He had just finished his studies and had hurriedly bid farewell to Dachun just to see the posting of ranks at Yuxiu Academy. Because of the run here, his face was still red, much like a shiny red apple, irresistibly invoking the urge to take a bite. He gently took Feng Bailing¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I already know the result.¡± Feng Bailing touched Xiaojin¡¯s head, and it seemed she was mistaken, the dean was different from her and not a person from another time. ¡°Eleventh place, you are lucky; this year they are admitting eleven people.¡± Prince Wu¡¯s words caused a shock to all around, As the dean was reviewing the answers, he was about to leave. That moment the dean had just finished reading Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s answer, and laughed with her eyes all narrowed, casually writing down Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s name. The once laughing dean abruptly changed her expression the next moment. Not even speaking when Prince Wu left. Prince Wu, with his sharp eyesight and through the paper, had also seen what Feng Bailing had written. It was some strange characters, appearing more like a music score, written differently from the others by Feng Bailing. Upon hearing this, Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s expression changed dramatically. Earlier, the deputy dean¡¯s published list clearly did not include Feng Bailing. ¡°Princess Shengping, even though you ranked eleventh, without the right teacher, you can¡¯t enter Yuxiu Academy.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er forced a smile, glancing at Feng Bailing. So what if Ouyang Chenchen passed the assessment? Now that the dean had taken a disciple, other female teachers, due to the deputy dean, would not accept Feng Bailing. Hearing this, Prince Wu raised his eyebrows, Nalan Yan¡¯er being somewhat sharp-tongued today... It¡¯s just a disciple; he could take his time mentoring her back home. Prince Wu was about to speak. ¡°If the Princess does not mind, I am willing to be the Princess¡¯s teacher.¡± Ninth Prince, Dongfang Mosheng, carrying an ancient zither, approached gracefully. Dongfang Mosheng wants to be Feng Bailing¡¯s teacher? Prince Wu¡¯s gaze turned stern. ¡°Old Ninth, has your head been trampled by a horse? If you want to take her as a disciple, I disagree!¡± Upon hearing this, Dongfang Li¡¯s nose almost twisted with irritation. Dugu Wu glanced at Dongfang Li, finding him surprisingly pleasant to look at for the first time. ¡°I also disagree.¡± A light laughter was then heard. A woman walked over; she was a beauty in her thirties. Her appearance was graceful and refined, dressed in an extremely simple and elegant blue attire, with no hair ornaments between her temples, exuding an ethereal aura. She approached leisurely, with a smile at the corners of her mouth and eyes, looking generous and gentle. Even the imperious Dongfang Li fell silent upon seeing her. Led by Nalan Yan¡¯er, a group of female students hurriedly bowed in respect, while Dugu Xiaojin looked on curiously. ¡°Principal.¡± It was Feng Bailing¡¯s first encounter with Nan Xiu in person, she bowed with neither servility nor haughtiness. ¡°I¡¯ve heard everything, Feng Bailing is the last one I made an exception to admit. She¡ªyou cannot vie with me for her.¡± The principal spoke, pulling Feng Bailing closer. The meaning was clear to anyone, even to a blind person; she wanted to take Feng Bailing as her disciple. Nalan Yan¡¯er clenched her fists tightly, her heart filled with reluctance; why should everything she desired fall into Feng Bailing¡¯s hands? This was true both for Dugu Wu and the principal¡¯s favor. ¡°Come with me, I have something to say to you.¡± Ignoring the puzzled looks of everyone around, the principal led Feng Bailing towards Wangyue Pavilion. ¡°Later on, you may visit her at Yuxiu Academy, but it must not disrupt your studies.¡± Dugu Wu, feeling pleased, noticed Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s reluctant gaze as Feng Bailing departed, wondering why he felt like losing a son if he were to marry Feng Bailing in the future? Upon hearing this, Dugu Xiaojin nodded vigorously and contentedly accompanied his father home. Nalan Yan¡¯er sneered, thinking Feng Bailing believed she could easily marry into Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion just by gaining admission to Yuxiu Academy? She could be expelled once, she could be expelled a second time. She bowed and left with her maid to fetch Dongfang Jin. Dongfang Li also felt depressed; now that Feng Bailing had indeed been admitted to Yuxiu Academy, was she really going to marry into Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion? He felt a tightness in his chest, very uncomfortable, quickly grabbing Dongfang Mosheng and disregarding the two ladies of the Feng family, he hurriedly departed. ¡°Big Sister, Feng Bailing is just too lucky; not only has she caught Prince Wu¡¯s favor but now she¡¯s also secured the principal¡¯s support.¡± Feng Ruoyan was consumed with envy. ¡°So, you want to climb to the high branches too? But let¡¯s see if you have the fate. Feng Ruoyan, recognize your status. You are nothing but a commoner living under others¡¯ roof, not some noble lady. Some schemes are better left unattempted.¡± Feng Xiangxue saw through Feng Ruoyan very clearly, knowing these tricks, as she had tried them on Dongfang Li before. Frightened, Feng Ruoyan¡¯s face went pale, and she dared not speak. Feng Xiangxue gave her a look and stormed off. Halfway there, Princess Anyang caught up with her. ¡°I¡¯ve found out; Feng Bailing touched the principal¡¯s heart by playing the Suona. Had I known playing Suona could make one a disciple of the principal, I would have learned it too. But it seems hard to learn, I can¡¯t even get a tune out.¡± Princess Anyang commanded a servant to bring a Suona, but she struggled even to make a sound. ¡°I will take it and see, I don¡¯t believe I can¡¯t learn what Feng Bailing knows.¡± Feng Xiangxue took the Suona, her mother always praised her intelligence and talent in music, maybe, if she learned Suona, the principal might take another disciple. In the shadows, two pairs of spying eyes followed Feng Xiangxue. ¡°It¡¯s her, as per my investigation, no one else in Yuxiu Academy plays Suona. The one playing must be this woman.¡± A servant-looking spy solemnly reported to an ordinary-looking man beside him. ¡°Find out her background. She is a beauty; I wonder how she compares to the legendary Crown Princess Consort of Great Chu.¡± A tall man lurking in the shadows, his eyes gleaming with venom like a snake. Chapter 96 - 96 98 Could She Also Be Someone Who Transversed ?Chapter 96: Chapter 98: Could She Also Be Someone Who Transversed Through Time? Chapter 96: Chapter 98: Could She Also Be Someone Who Transversed Through Time? The moonlight waned in the west, and in the Wangyue Pavilion, the evening breeze stirred the gauze curtains. An ancient zither lay there, with tendrils of white smoke slowly rising from the burner. Ouyang Chenchen had long vanished without a trace. Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s smile faded as she gazed intensely at Feng Bailing, her eyes fixed and her focus inward. ¡°Who are you, if not Feng Bailing?¡± Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s voice suddenly changed, as a fiery red character flickered between her eyebrows¡ªa stylized ¡®wood¡¯¡ªseeming ready to emerge. Her tone was chilling to the bone, and as her delicate jade-like hands fell swiftly onto the zither, the sound resonated, followed abruptly by a flash of cold light. A string from the ancient zither transformed into a streak of white light, racing like lightning and carrying a fierce killing intent, thrusting directly at Feng Bailing¡¯s brow. At the critical moment, the string shifted abruptly. As the string changed its trajectory, the curtains were torn into shreds, scattering and falling to the ground. Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, and upon looking again, Feng Bailing¡¯s figure hadn¡¯t moved; his expression was as impassive as ever, the very picture of an unrivalled master. Mount Tai could crumble before him without a change in his expression¡ªsuch bravery and perception! Lady Nan Xiu rarely failed in confrontation. She broke into a cold sweat and hurriedly bowed with respect. ¡°Elder, Nan Xiu has been presumptuous. Please forgive my offense.¡± Lady Nan Xiu was trembling with fear and dared not look Feng Bailing directly in the eye, for fear that this deeply hidden elder would be displeased and slap her to death with a palm. To stand unwavering, without even lifting a finger, and alter the attack of the zither¡¯s strings¡ªsuch cultivation surely surpassed the Wuji Golden Seal! Lady Nan Xiu had been suspicious when she saw the few lines of the zither¡¯s score that Feng Bailing had written. That¡¯s why she added the extra eleventh spot. ¡°Ignorance isn¡¯t a crime. Considering you are Chenchen¡¯s teacher, I will let this go.¡± Feng Bailing too had broken out into a cold sweat. Only with the help of the Seventh Sense had she avoided that strike. The headmaster turned out to be a master. ¡°Elder, please take a seat.¡± Lady Nan Xiu personally brewed tea and served it to Feng Bailing, waiting attentively by his side with a submissive demeanor. ¡°Do you understand that piece of music?¡± Feng Bailing took a sip of tea and seemingly asked casually. ¡°I am but a novice with shallow learning, having mastered only the Wenhua Fire Seal, I can only understand a small portion. I would be extraordinarily grateful if the elder could enlighten me and complete the remaining parts of the unfinished piece.¡± Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s face lit up with excitement as the music of the Ten Sides Ambush was mentioned. ¡°You¡¯ve also condensed the Wenhua Seal?¡± Feng Bailing instantly found the tea in her hand less fragrant. She had no seals, yet the other possessed two? What a remarkable person! ¡°The Wenhua Seal and the Wuji Seal can coexist; whichever is stronger will be more prominently displayed. Elder, you...¡± Lady Nan Xiu hesitated, wanting to ask how Feng Bailing could be unaware, but then she thought better of it¡ªthe elder must be testing her. ¡°I am no great master myself; I simply had the honor of apprenticing under one. You must know, I spent some years at the Other Manor. It was during that time when I met my master, who taught me everything about music and martial arts.¡± Feng Bailing, afraid Lady Nan Xiu might not believe her, instructed her to bring pen, ink, paper, and inkstone, and she proceeded to write out the remaining four sections of the Ten Sides Ambush. Upon seeing it, Lady Nan Xiu quickly knelt down. ¡°Elder, I am not very talented, and would like to invite the elder to be the head of Yuxiu Academy. Nan Xiu is willing to step down, only wishing for the elder to stay.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s hand holding the teacup quivered. ¡°I have no interest in teaching.¡± ¡°Senior, then I beg you to take me as your servant. I¡¯m willing to serve by your side and only ask for occasional guidance.¡± As Lady Nan Xiu spoke, she knelt and bowed three times. By the time Feng Bailing wanted to stop her, it was already too late. ¡°Alright, I can teach you some... music theory, but you must not speak of it to others.¡± Feng Bailing, a former military musician, knew plenty of ancient and Western tunes. Just picking a few at random would be enough to bamboozle Lady Nan Xiu. ¡°Rest assured, senior, this is our secret.¡± Seeing Feng Bailing insist on not taking her as a disciple, Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s face was full of regret. ¡°Additionally, I need a title to stay at Yuxiu Academy. To others, I shall claim to be your nominal disciple.¡± Feng Bailing knew she was just at Yuxiu Academy to gild her name, to get a ¡°diploma¡±, and there was no need to be an official disciple. ¡°I¡¯m putting you in a tough spot, senior.¡± The dean¡¯s face showed panic and fear. ¡°Furthermore, I will attend the academy¡¯s classes sporadically, but I will participate in the monthly assessments.¡± Feng Bailing had a lot on her plate and simply could not attend classes every day. ¡°With your extensive knowledge and talent, senior, there¡¯s no need for you to attend classes with the regular students. You just need to select a few subjects and pass the monthly assessments. I will explain this to the vice dean.¡± The dean readily agreed. When she left Yuxiu Academy, it was already late at night. In the horse carriage, Feng Bailing¡¯s brow was deeply furrowed. That incomplete version of ¡°Ten Sides Ambush¡± wasn¡¯t created by Lady Nan Xiu but was something she stumbled upon on a battlefield. About a decade ago, during one of Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s travels, she witnessed wars among several nations, including the Great Chu Army. On the battlefield, amidst deafening war cries, the Great Chu Army had the upper hand in numbers and was commanded by a capable general, poised for a sweeping victory. But suddenly, the sound of a zither carried across the battleground. The melody, distant yet prevailing, initially sounded like a sudden downpour of rain, then like the clash of metal and hooves, with war cries that shook the heavens. Under the influence of the zither, the previously high-spirited Chu Army¡¯s formation was thrown into disarray, soldiers routed, transforming their advantageous situation into a steep decline, ultimately leading to a crushing defeat where even the commander was beheaded. ¡°The enemy didn¡¯t even finish the entire tune before defeating eighty thousand Chu soldiers. I remembered the incomplete melody, never knowing the rest. I thought it would be a lifelong regret, but to my surprise, I had the chance to meet you, senior.¡± While recalling Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s words amidst the rumbling sounds of the carriage wheels, Feng Bailing reflected on that battle. It was also Dugu Wu¡¯s first battle, and it was then that Lady Nan Xiu saved Dugu Wu¡¯s life. One song, ¡°Ten Sides Ambush,¡± had turned into a deadly reaper¡¯s tune. Yet the person who played it never showed themselves. The carriage had already arrived outside the Feng Mansion, and Feng Bailing stepped off. When she returned to the east wing, Feng Xiaoli had already fallen asleep. Dongfang Lianhua was delighted to hear that Feng Bailing had passed the assessment. Her daughter¡¯s lifelong matters were settled, and she had found a way to redeem Feng Luochen and the Jade Pendant. ¡°Miss, Xinglin Spring has sent over the medicinal herbs you requested.¡± Mrs. Su had been waiting for a long time; Feng Bailing had gone for the assessment during the day, and Su Wang had prepared all the medicinal ingredients Feng Bailing wanted to make the hair cream earlier on. ¡°Let¡¯s go, it¡¯s time to prepare the medicine.¡± Feng Bailing perked up upon hearing this. With the substantial earnings from Yuxiu Academy, even after putting aside the money to redeem Feng Luochen and the Jade Pendant, as well as the ever-necessary emergency medical kit that could consume funds at any moment, Feng Bailing still decided to work hard to make more money. If successful, purely medicinal hair cream could become a treasure of Xinglin Spring. Under the cover of night, Feng Zao watched Feng Bailing, Mrs. Su, and Chun Liu rush into the kitchen where they set up a large iron pot to start preparing the medicine! Chapter 97 - 97 99 The Scumbag Father in the Brothel ?Chapter 97: Chapter 99: The Scumbag Father in the Brothel... Chapter 97: Chapter 99: The Scumbag Father in the Brothel... In the south wing early in the morning, there was a loud clatter. Aunt Xue¡¯s face lost all color as she knocked over the cup used for rinsing her mouth. ¡°Feng Bailing has passed the exam.¡± When Feng Xiangxue returned last night, Aunt Xue had already taken her medicine and gone to sleep, having not slept well for several days due to Feng Zhanlian¡¯s disappearance. ¡°She got lucky, befriending a disciple of the academy¡¯s head. He pleaded on her behalf, and Feng Bailing got the chance to become a nominal disciple of the academy head.¡± Feng Xiangxue twisted the handkerchief in her hands and spoke resentfully. Feng Bailing had still managed to get into Yuxiu Academy, which meant that Aunt Xue had lost tens of thousands of taels that she had secretly given Feng Xiangxue to gamble with. Aunt Xue was so anxious that she could hardly swallow a breath and collapsed onto the couch. ¡°The future of Zhao¡¯an is completely ruined.¡± Aunt Xue clutched at her chest in fury. Without the money, how could she find pathways for her son? ¡°Mother, don¡¯t panic just yet. Let¡¯s ask Second Uncle for help. Over the years, you¡¯ve managed the house, and he¡¯s also reaped many benefits.¡± Feng Xiangxue said and sent for Feng Zhan Tian. After Feng Zhan Tian arrived, Aunt Xue put on a despondent appearance of a beauty in tears. ¡°Second Brother, you must help us. Your older brother has gone missing, and I need to raise money to employ people to find him. But when I went to the east wing, that person has kept her door shut and refused to see anyone.¡± ¡°Eldest Sister-in-law, I¡¯m also anxious about Big Brother¡¯s whereabouts, but I¡¯m helpless. You know, I¡¯ve been thrown out of Xinglin Spring. Feng Bailing has something on me, and I¡¯m strapped for cash as well.¡± Feng Zhan Tian was full of resentment too. After the incident at Xinglin Spring, Feng Bailing produced a ledger book that contained things that could easily land him in prison. ¡°We must tell the Old Madam about this.¡± Aunt Xue never expected that even the normally crafty Feng Zhan Tian couldn¡¯t handle Feng Bailing and her daughter. The two conspired and decided to go to the west wing to find Old Madam Feng early in the morning. At dawn, Aunt Xue and Feng Zhanlian went to the west wing and saw Feng Bailing chatting and laughing with Old Madam Feng. ¡°Mother, you must stand up for us.¡± Just as Feng Zhan Tian was about to complain, he saw Old Madam Feng smilingly touching her own hair. ¡°Zhan Tian, look, Ah Ling has applied some hair cream, and all my gray hairs have disappeared.¡± Only then did Feng Zhan Tian notice that his mother¡¯s hair, once gray, had become completely black, and she looked more than a decade younger. ¡°I noticed that my grandmother was worried about my father¡¯s situation recently, and a lot of her hair turned white. This hair cream is from Fan Country; it can last for several months without fading.¡± Feng Bailing was very satisfied with the hair dye she rushed to make the previous night. Although the emergency box cost her one thousand taels, the pure traditional medicine hair cream she got was very effective. Feng Bailing analyzed its ingredients and after boiling it for the whole night, finally succeeded. The hair dyeing effect was excellent, with a light herbal fragrance. The first test subject she chose was the Old Madam. Seeing Old Madam Feng¡¯s face brighten with joy, Feng Zhan Tian grew even angrier. ¡°You have the nerve to mention your father? I ask you, Aunt Xue and I have repeatedly asked your mother for money to employ people to find Big Brother¡¯s whereabouts, but why have you always refused?¡± Feng Zhan Tian angrily questioned Feng Bailing. ¡°Second Uncle, you misunderstand me and my mother. At the time of Father¡¯s disappearance, we were in dire straits in the Imperial Palace. My mother had just come back two days ago. She¡¯s been overworking to the point her old illness nearly relapsed. That¡¯s why I had Nanny Su shut the doors and turn away visitors. As for employing people to find Father, I have already made arrangements, and we should have news soon.¡± Feng Bailing deftly cleared herself and Dongfang Lianhua of any blame. ¡°You make it sound so easy. I¡¯ve run my legs off and haven¡¯t been able to find any news; how could you possibly have the capacity to do so?¡± Feng Zhan Tian sneered. Nanny Su hurriedly came in and bowed to Old Madam Feng and Feng Bailing and the others. ¡°Miss, someone from Chen Country¡¯s Lady Mansion has come with news about the old master.¡± Everyone in the room was shocked. A quarter of an hour later, in the Flower Hall, members of both the main branch and the second branch had all arrived. Old Madam Feng sat at the head of the table with Dongfang Lianhua seated beside her. ¡°To report to the Princess, a good old friend of mine is at Shanyin Inn. Last night when I visited, I saw a man who looks very much like the Prince Consort.¡± The servant from Duchess Chen¡¯s mansion knelt on the ground and reported. Feng Mansion¡¯s people deliberated together, and since Dongfang Lianhua and the old lady were not in good health, Feng Bailing, Aunt Xue, and Feng Zhan Tian prepared a horse carriage together and set out for Shanyin Inn on Biluo Mountain. After a bumpy journey, they arrived as the evenings lamps were being lit. Aunt Xue had just stepped out of the horse carriage, but upon seeing Shanyin Inn, she turned pale. Shanyin Inn was built against a mountain, a rather prestigious-looking building. At the door stood several handsome men who looked like they were courting customers, much like the courtesans of a brothel. Aunt Xue¡¯s legs were somewhat weak, and her heart was in tumult. It took her great effort to calm herself, only to see at the entrance a familiar figure helping a plump, middle-aged, and unsightly woman. Chapter 98 - 98 100 The Worthless Father Wants to Take a ?Chapter 98: Chapter 100: The Worthless Father Wants to Take a Concubine? Chapter 98: Chapter 100: The Worthless Father Wants to Take a Concubine? The man had rouge on his face and lipstick on his lips, wearing a fawning smile. The middle-aged, ugly woman pinched him around his waist and stuffed a silver ingot into his hand. ¡°Master!¡± Aunt Xue¡¯s voice trembled, almost unable to believe her own eyes. Who else could that dressed-up wretch, greased by the ugly woman, be if not Feng Zhanlian! Feng Zhanlian felt as though struck by lightning. Looking up, he saw several people from Feng Mansion; his body shook, his complexion turning both red and white. ¡°Big brother, how did you end up like this?¡± Feng Zhan Tian also couldn¡¯t believe it; his brother, who was once elegant and handsome, had turned into this pathetic figure in just a few days. Feng Zhanlian opened his mouth, but his throat had been poisoned into silence, leaving him only capable of emitting a hoarse cry. Aunt Xue was sobbing uncontrollably, throwing herself forward. Suddenly, a red soft whip lashed out, tightening around Feng Zhanlian¡¯s neck and dragging him back like a dog. Tittering laughter. A woman descended the stairs, draped in a thin, gauzy robe, her chest like white jade, her slender waist and long legs faintly visible beneath the fabric. A charming fragrance wafted from her body. Even Feng Zhan Tian, among the other men present, couldn¡¯t help but display a look of infatuation. ¡°With distinguished guests gracing our doorstep, it¡¯s my fault for not welcoming you from afar. My apologies.¡± Lady Nan Feng¡¯s gaze swept over the people from Feng Mansion and finally rested on Feng Bailing. Among these people, Feng Bailing was the youngest, but for some reason, Lady Nan Feng found her the most eye-catching. ¡°Quickly release my husband!¡± Aunt Xue, seeing Feng Zhanlian choked around his neck and lying like a dog at the feet of the seductive woman, was both angry and ashamed. ¡°The ¡®master¡¯ you speak of, could it be him? I bought him for one hundred taels of gold. Seeing his skills in bed are remarkable, I decided to keep him as my male concubine.¡± Lady Nan Feng chuckled. ¡°How dare you! He is the current Prince Consort Feng Zhanlian. You, you dare to abduct a Prince Consort; such a crime is punishable by beheading!¡± Feng Zhan Tian shivered with anger. ¡°Prince Consort? No wonder when I had him serve Duchess Chen last night, the two of them were exchanging glances. It seems like he went to pass messages. All the male concubines and men here are with us of their own free will. Tell me, did I force you?¡± Lady Nan Feng scoffed, lifting Feng Zhanlian¡¯s chin with a breath as fragrant as orchids. Feng Zhanlian hurriedly shook his head. ¡°Master, what has happened to you? Is this woman threatening you?¡± Aunt Xue wiped her tears. ¡°Lady, my father was kidnapped and brought here. You¡¯re engaging in human trafficking, which is against the Law of Chu. If you don¡¯t release him, we will report this to the authorities.¡± Feng Bailing hadn¡¯t finished speaking when, with a swish, the shadow of a whip, like a spiritual snake, swept towards her face. Feng Bailing raised her hand, and the whip was caught in her grasp. ¡°Report to the authorities? I¡¯d like to see who dares to meddle with Shanyin Inn¡¯s affairs.¡± A fierce look flashed in Lady Nan Feng¡¯s eyes, as she infused the whip with Gang Qi. ¡°This lady here is Prince Wu¡¯s fiance?e.¡± A sudden voice came forth. Feng Bailing knew that Feng Zao must have followed when she left the princess¡¯ mansion. ¡°You are Dugu Wu¡¯s bride-to-be?¡± Lady Nan Feng suddenly smiled, brushing away some loose strands of her hair. After weighing it in her heart, Lady Nan Feng felt no fear of the officials, but if Dugu Wu made a move, with his means, ten Shanyin Inns would not be enough for him to tear down. ¡°Zhanlian and I are in mutual affection. He promised to take me as his concubine. I ask for nothing from the money he earned from selling himself. My only wish is to marry him and lead an honest life after selling Shanyin Inn.¡± Over the years, she had saved enough money and desired to marry a man and live a peaceful life. Although Feng Zhanlian was merely a Prince Consort, he was talented and handsome. They had a certain understanding in the bedroom, which made her wish to marry. ¡°That¡¯s out of the question!¡± Aunt Xue felt as though she had been struck by lightning, and she abruptly stood up, her face contorted. ¡°Second sister-in-law, don¡¯t be anxious. Let¡¯s discuss this matter back at the mansion.¡± Upon hearing this, Feng Zhan Tian couldn¡¯t help but feel envious and jealous of Feng Zhanlian. Lady Nan Feng was stunningly beautiful and naturally a rare treasure. Not only that, but she was willing to sell the Shanyin Inn as a dowry. How did he not encounter such good fortune? Feng Bailing was also shocked. Lady Nan Feng knew martial arts and how to use poison. Could she have taken a fancy to Feng Zhanlian? If she truly married into the Princess¡¯ Mansion, it might not necessarily be a bad thing. If this woman and Aunt Xue were to fight, it would probably lead to an upheaval. ¡°This matter requires further discussion with Grandmother and Mother. Please accompany us back to the mansion, Lady. Also, regarding my father¡¯s incident at the Shanyin Inn, please do not publicize it.¡± After weighing the options, Feng Bailing decided to take Lady Nan Feng and Feng Zhanlian back to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Deep into the night, the Feng Mansion was brightly lit. Old Madam Feng, upon seeing the long-missing Feng Zhanlian, clung to him and cried incessantly. Feng Xiangxue stood beside Aunt Xue, who looked drained, continuously dabbing the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. Although Lady Nan Feng was not pure, she was like a golden hen that could lay eggs. One concubine or two, it didn¡¯t matter; if Zhanlian liked her, then just accept her. Old Madam Feng¡¯s wrinkled face relaxed, and her mouth was tightly shut like an old clam, silent. Lady Nan Feng¡¯s smile grew wider, and she bowed slightly to Dongfang Lianhua. ¡°Princess Sister.¡± Her voice was melodious, like the song of a warbler, enough to soften one¡¯s bones. Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s face was dignified, without a trace of a smile. ¡°Princess, this is Lady Nan Feng. The eldest brother was kidnapped, and she rescued him. In gratitude for her lifesaving grace, he wants to take her as a concubine to serve you alongside him.¡± Feng Zhan Tian said with a flattering smile. Last time, when the eldest brother wanted to take Aunt Xue as a concubine, Dongfang Lianhua had agreed. This time, it should be a matter of going with the flow. ¡°I do not agree.¡± Dongfang Lianhua held her tea; the water had long gone cold, much like her heart. After learning martial arts, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s health improved, and she was no longer as weak as before. Her mind cleared, and she no longer saw people in a muddled haze. She had investigated the matter with Aunt Xue after being alerted by Ah Ling. She had sent someone to Feng Zhanlian¡¯s hometown, and after much effort, she got the news from the village chief. Everything had come to light. She had been deceived for over a decade, and now, they dared to deceive her again! This was the Princess¡¯ Mansion, not a brothel! ¡°What right do you have to disagree... I am marrying Nan Feng... whether you agree or not... or else...¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face was flushed red, his voice hoarse. His throat had been poisoned with evergreen leaves, nearly leaving him mute. Luckily, Nan Feng had found a Divine Doctor to cure him, but unfortunately, his voice was damaged, only managing to speak intermittently. Nan Feng said if he married her, she would finance his career path and ensure it was unobstructed. Nan Feng also mentioned she knew a master who could help him reconstitute the Wenhua Seal. Whatever he lost due to Dongfang Lianhua, Lady Nan Feng could help him reclaim it all. His feelings for Dongfang Lianhua had long faded, and as for Aunt Xue, deeply in love and understanding, he could appease her with a few words, and she would surely acquiesce. ¡°I am the Matriarch of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. If I do not agree, no one can enter this door. You may have no shame, but I do. You need to think of the children; if you accept her, how will they ever hold their heads high?¡± Dongfang Lianhua clenched her lips. Feng Zhanlian did not expect Dongfang Lianhua to be so firm. He hesitated, thinking about settling Nan Feng outside as a mistress... Feng Bailing sneered inwardly, understanding all too well what kind of person Feng Zhanlian was. Without significant benefits, he wouldn¡¯t dare openly confront Dongfang Lianhua. ¡°Trouble! Princess, Old Madam, eldest sir, second sir, a gang of fierce people have arrived at our door from Fengtian, saying our young master has committed murder and owes a large sum of money to their gambling house. They demand that we hand over the third young master!¡± The servant ran in, face filled with panic. Chapter 99 - 99 101 Lets Get a Divorce ?Chapter 99: Chapter 101: Let¡¯s Get a Divorce Chapter 99: Chapter 101: Let¡¯s Get a Divorce Upon hearing this, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s complexion turned ashen, and Feng Bailing hurriedly stepped forward to support her. ¡°Please invite the people in and first, let¡¯s find out what exactly happened.¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face turned pale with anger as he glared at Dongfang Lianhua. That wretched son! Seeing the dire situation, Feng Zhan Tian hurriedly dispatched a servant to call the people in. The envoy from Fengtian narrated the whole series of events clearly, causing everyone at the Feng Mansion to be scared witless, shivering with cold sweat. Feng Luochen incurred debts and after committing murder, fled to avoid the law. ¡°Either hand over the person or we will go to the Capital Governor to lodge a complaint. Princes who break the law should be treated the same as commoners, let alone your Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± The people from the gambling house glared menacingly. ¡°Look at what you have... taught... this... brute...¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s forehead veins throbbed with rage as he stared at Dongfang Lianhua. ¡°Luochen hasn¡¯t returned to the mansion. He is young, and although rash, he would never kill anyone. There must be some misunderstanding here. Please grant us some time to find him. As for the money he owes you, we will settle it once we find him.¡± Feng Bailing consoled Dongfang Lianhua as he spoke. ¡°Do not... give... the money...¡± Upon hearing this, Feng Zhanlian grew even more infuriated. That wretched son had committed a murder, and it was unknown how much money it would take to cover this debacle. Let alone 150 gold taels, he would not pay a single penny. ¡°Zhanlian, Luochen is our son!¡± Dongfang Lianhua said in disbelief, was he really going to stand by and watch his son die? ¡°I do not... have... such a... son.¡± Feng Zhanlian had already concluded that Feng Luochen was a murderer and would only drag down his own and Feng Mansion¡¯s reputation. After all, he had two sons; if he disowned Feng Luochen, there was still Feng Zhao¡¯an. Zhao¡¯an was talented and handsome and more like him. At a young age, he held an official post, and when he returned to the capital in autumn for his duty report, he would surely be entrusted with an important mission by Emperor Yongye. The one who could bring honor to his ancestors, that was his true son! Under the lamplight, Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face was a mask of cold indifference. Dongfang Lianhua looked at him, truly seeing the man before her for the first time. Over the years, he had paid no attention to her and Ah Ling. He wanted to sell off Xiao Li. He didn¡¯t even care about Feng Luochen¡¯s life or death. In his heart, there was only his own face, only himself. ¡°Feng Zhanlian, are you seriously unwilling to pay this money?¡± Dongfang Lianhua asked in a heavy tone. ¡°Not paying... I... want to sever... the father-son relationship.¡± Feng Zhanlian was determined to cut ties with the murderer Feng Luochen. ¡°Feng Zhanlian, let¡¯s divorce.¡± Dongfang Lianhua closed her eyes, unable to shed a single tear. Inside the Flower Hall, everyone was taken aback. Old Madam Feng and Feng Zhan Tian were dumbstruck; Aunt Xue and her daughter secretly rejoiced, and Feng Zhanlian was stunned. ¡°Princess, what are you saying in anger? We can slowly discuss the matter of Luochen. If you don¡¯t agree with taking a concubine for the third mistress, we could talk about it later. You are a Princess, how could you say such a thing?¡± Aunt Xue feigned concern. Dongfang Lianhua adored Feng Zhanlian so much, how could she possibly want a divorce? It was clearly an act of playing hard to get. ¡°The head of the household, don¡¯t think just because you are a Princess you can bully Zhanlian. Is it not just about taking a concubine? You are a consumptive, unable to bear him more children, so why can¡¯t he take a concubine?¡± Old Madam Feng was so angry that she tapped her Jiutou Stick loudly. ¡°Why can¡¯t my mother divorce him? She raised a pair of children for Feng Zhanlian, she adhered to the virtues of a wife, and she is also a current Princess. Tell me, which Princess¡¯ Prince Consort can take a concubine, and then take one after another?¡± Feng Bailing breathed a sigh of relief; this step, Dongfang Lianhua had finally taken. ¡°Taking a concubine... was... sanctioned by the... Emperor.¡± Feng Zhanlian never imagined that the ostrich-like Dongfang Lianhua would dare to bring up those two words. Did she really think she was still the same favored noble offspring by the late Emperor? She must not know that the Beiqi Kingdom has already torn up the alliance with Great Chu, and Emperor Yongye has long been dissatisfied with her lineage from Beiqi. If it weren¡¯t for the secret edict from the late Emperor, she and her twins would have been executed long ago. ¡°I will report the matter of the divorce to the Emperor tomorrow. Ah Ling, I¡¯m tired, help me back.¡± Dongfang Lianhua felt a tightness in her chest, and Feng Bailing helped her back to the eastern wing. After returning to the eastern wing, Dongfang Lianhua sat on the couch and, after taking the medicine handed to her by Mrs. Su, bitterly smiled and said, ¡°Ah Ling, accompany me to the palace tomorrow. For Luochen and you, I must also seek a divorce.¡± ¡°Mother, have you thought it through?¡± Feng Bailing was heartbroken for Dongfang Lianhua. ¡°All these years, it was my mistake. The man I thought was good-hearted is actually cruel and merciless. I accepted that he tried to poison me in secret. But he won¡¯t let you and Luochen go, and he even refuses to spare Xiao Li! That Lady Nan Feng is no good; what is she really here for after marrying into the Princess¡¯ Mansion?¡± Dongfang Lianhua was not foolish; if she could not confront them, she could always hide. ¡°Mother, it¡¯s good that you understand. No matter what you do, both Luochen and I will support you. You should rest first, I will go see Xiao Li.¡± Feng Bailing instructed Mrs. Su with a few words and then left the room. Under the night sky, she surveyed her surroundings. ¡°Feng Zao.¡± A shadow appeared accordingly. ¡°Princess Shengping.¡± ¡°Thank you for today.¡± Feng Bailing was very grateful to Feng Zao; without him today, she might have been plotted against by Lady Nan Feng. This also made her realize that she needed to improve her cultivation. Perhaps she should seek out Dugu Wu more often? After all, with just a casual effort, Dugu Xiaojin was able to condense the Wuji Seal. She took out a bottle of medicinal pills and gave them to Feng Zao. Feng Zao hesitated for a moment but accepted it. ¡°Consider this as my token of gratitude. Although you are skilled, poison can still be troublesome. This is a Detoxification Pill I concocted; it can neutralize over a hundred types of poison. Hold it in your mouth and it will detoxify and protect you from poison.¡± Feng Bailing, while concocting hair cream last night, had also casually made a few bottles of detoxification pills. She was originally versed in both Eastern and Western medicine, and after getting to know Lu Yin and Gong Zhu, she became even more knowledgeable about Great Chu¡¯s poison theories. After she took over Xinglin Spring, purchasing herbs became more convenient. Combining her knowledge of medicine and poison, her Detoxification Pills were very effective against common poisons. Feng Zao was a trusted aide of Dugu Wu, and Feng Bailing would have many uses for him in the future, so she needed to build a good relationship. ¡°Thank you, Princess.¡± Feng Zao, having protected Feng Bailing for a few days, knew that the Princess¡¯ medical skill was highly profound, even admired by the Divine Doctor Lu. Her Detoxification Pills were invaluable. ¡°There¡¯s one more thing, please investigate the origins of those people at the gambling house tonight clearly for me.¡± Feng Bailing had suspected, as soon as Lady Nan Feng arrived, the gamblers followed right afterward, and she had just learned about Feng Luochen¡¯s escape. ¡°I am aware of this matter,¡± said Feng Zao without any concealment and informed her of Feng Luochen¡¯s escape. This was something the Prince intended to notify the Princess of, but the situation changed too quickly, and Feng Zao had not yet found the opportunity to inform Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing had also wanted to find the right time to let Dongfang Lianhua and Feng Zhanlian divorce, but this matter was quite complicated, especially with Emperor Yongye¡¯s involvement. She hadn¡¯t expected Dugu Wu to make the first move. ¡°The Prince does not want the Princess to have any more connections with the Feng Mansion.¡± If it wasn¡¯t for the fact that Feng Zhanlian was Emperor Yongye¡¯s spy and could not be removed directly, Dugu Wu would have already made his move. Feng Zao knew his master well; just based on the fact that Feng Zhanlian was willing to sell Feng Xiaoli, in the eyes of his master, Feng Zhanlian was already a dead man. ¡°Why would Dugu Wu know about Luochen?¡± Feng Bailing sensed something was amiss. ¡°The Princess¡¯ affairs are of great concern to the Prince. He is the Princess¡¯ brother, and also the Prince¡¯s future brother.¡± Feng Zao said thoughtfully, pondering that the Prince himself hadn¡¯t realized just how much attention he had been paying lately to the affairs of Princess Shengping and her daughter. Nowadays, the Prince required himself to report daily on the goings-on in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, which were simply trivial matters such as how many bowls Feng Xiaoli ate or what new medicine Princess Shengping concocted, but it seemed the Prince was quite happy to hear about them. Chapter 100 - 100 102 Making a Deal with the Emperor ?Chapter 100: Chapter 102: Making a Deal with the Emperor Chapter 100: Chapter 102: Making a Deal with the Emperor Before dawn, not a glimmer of first light painted the sky when Dongfang Lianhua rose. After washing up, she applied a light make-up to herself. It was just getting bright when she and Feng Bailing went to the Imperial Palace. Arriving at the palace gates, the heavens did not favor them, turning slightly drunk with rain beginning to fall. Dongfang Lianhua and her daughter alighted from the carriage, and Feng Bailing instantly noticed a horse carriage stationed beside the palace gates. ¡°Mother, it¡¯s the carriage from the Feng Mansion.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes darkened. Emperor Yongye had just finished the morning court when the two women went to greet him, and Li Qing came out from inside. He lowered his voice. ¡°Princess Yong¡¯an, Princess Shengping, the Prince Consort is waiting for you ahead, in the Imperial Study, where Old Grand Preceptor and Prince Wu are present.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s hand under her sleeve tightened. That old cur, Feng Zhanlian, must have regretted his actions by now. He was a claw of Emperor Yongye, and came to present his case as a villain seeking first to lodge a complaint. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Li,¡± said Feng Bailing. ¡°Here¡¯s a hair cream I¡¯ve recently made. It darkens and nourishes hair. Take this to try first, and if it¡¯s good, feel free to ask for more.¡± Feng Bailing handed a small bottle of hair cream to Li Qing. A smile played at Li Qing¡¯s eyes. Nearing his fifties, his hair had begun to show threads of white. In his high position, he had seen all sorts of gold, silver, and jewels, but Feng Bailing¡¯s gifts were always just right. ¡°I shall take my leave first, both of you be careful; lately, the Beiqi region has been restless.¡± Li Qing could say no more than that. Beiqi was a militaristic nation with a brusque culture, known as the state on horseback. In previous years, it was only through Prince Wu¡¯s iron-fisted suppression that tranquility was maintained at the frontier. Ever since Prince Wu injured his leg, although the news was tightly contained, neighboring dynasties had already caught wind, with Beiqi making the biggest commotion. They had repeatedly attacked several frontier fortresses. The generals at the borders suffered one defeat after another, with heavy losses, and Emperor Yongye had thundered his rage in the morning court. Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s breath caught, and she sighed. She carried the blood of Beiqi, an unalterable fact that the Emperor, her brother, worried about these many years. The mother and daughter stepped aside, and Feng Bailing asked again. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll ask you one more time. That secret edict left by the late Emperor, do you really not have it?¡± ¡°What secret edict? I truly have never seen it.¡± Dongfang Lianhua shook her head. This was not the first time Feng Bailing had asked. ¡°To part ways with divorce, if there is a secret edict, I¡¯m 80% sure this can be realized. But if there¡¯s no edict, I fear the Emperor might not agree. Reflect on this ¡ª what did the late Emperor say to you, especially before passing away?¡± Feng Bailing was soon to wed out, and Emperor Yongye who always distrusted Dongfang Lianhua, wouldn¡¯t abandon the pawn Feng Zhanlian. Unless there was a profit to be made. The only thing from the Princess¡¯ Mansion that could persuade Emperor Yongye was the secret edict. Dongfang Lianhua creased her brow, recalling intensely. Suddenly, her eyes lit up. ¡°I remember now. The last time I saw Father Emperor, there was a small box beside his pillow.¡± At that time, Dongfang Lianhua had just married Feng Zhanlian not long before, and after her Queen Mother passed away, the late Emperor¡¯s health worsened day by day. On his deathbed, he summoned Dongfang Lianhua into the palace. ¡°Where is that box?¡± ¡°After I left, my third brother, Prince Shun, came. He was the last person to see Father Emperor. Father Emperor favored him to succeed the throne, and he passed on after bestowing it.¡± Speaking of the late Emperor, Dongfang Lianhua let out a light sigh. By the time she entered the palace again, the box by the bedside had vanished. ¡°That must have contained the secret edict; it seems, then, that the edict is in the hands of Prince Shun.¡± Feng Bailing understood immediately. ¡°It¡¯s almost certain. But how did the rumor start that the edict was with me?¡± Dongfang Lianhua said in confusion. Feng Bailing was deep in thought when she suddenly heard an argument coming from the Imperial Study. ¡°Your Majesty, please think thrice. The commoners have suffered heavy taxes in recent years, and natural disasters like floods and droughts keep occurring. It is inadvisable to increase the taxes further, otherwise the people will have no means to live.¡± An elderly yet authoritative voice came through. ¡°The military provisions and pay are insufficient. If we do not increase the taxes, how are we to fight the border conflicts?¡± That cold male voice belonged to Dugu Wu. Feng Bailing pricked up her ears. ¡°Old Grand Preceptor, Prince Wu, both of you stop arguing. The Ministry of Revenue¡¯s accounts have not yet been settled. One of you bids to waive the taxes, the other to increase them. I will hand over the Ministry of Revenue¡¯s ledgers to both of you ¨C whoever can clarify them first will be the one I listen to.¡± It wasn¡¯t long before the door to the Imperial Study opened, and Dugu Wu, along with an elderly man, walked out. Waiting in front of Feng Bailing and her daughter, Feng Zhanlian nodded and bowed before entering the Imperial Study. The old man was none other than Grandmaster Nalan, one of the Three Dukes, and Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s grandfather. His face showed discontent, and he directly ignored Feng Bailing and her daughter, addressing Dugu Wu sharply. ¡°Prince Wu, let¡¯s see who can clarify the accounts of the Ministry of Revenue first.¡± With that, he left with a flick of his sleeve. Dugu Wu, too, was frowning. He seemed to notice Feng Bailing and her daughter and proceeded to walk towards the Ministry of Revenue outside the Imperial Palace. After a moment, Feng Zhanlian emerged from the Imperial Study. Seeing Feng Bailing and her daughter, he scoffed. ¡°Dream on if you want a divorce.¡± Feng Zhanlian had been impulsive the night before, but after reflecting on it and with Lady Nan Feng¡¯s pillow talk, he realized that a divorce would be a mistake. Without the divorce, the Princess¡¯ Mansion would remain his. Years of effort, all to seize the wealth of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and she just decides to kick him out? He had sacrificed his prospects and wronged Aunt Xue and her three children for so many years. With Zhao¡¯an about to return, he needed the connection with the Princess¡¯ Mansion to climb higher. The Princess¡¯ Mansion, he wanted! Power and influence, he wanted too! After pondering all night, Feng Zhanlian conceived a cunning plan. Early in the morning, he went to the Emperor before the mother and daughter could, reporting to Emperor Yongye that Feng Luochen was reckless in gambling, incurring huge debts and even committing murder. Claiming the moral high ground, he sought to sever father-son ties with Feng Luochen, while Dongfang Lianhua used a divorce as a threat. He also hinted to Emperor Yongye that since Feng Luochen had been taught literature from childhood and had never learned martial arts, if he could kill a man, he must have been secretly taught martial skills. The Beiqi people value martial prowess, and Feng Luochen carried a quarter of Beiqi blood in him. Upon hearing this, Emperor Yongye indeed looked displeased. Feng Zhanlian knew his plot had succeeded and, with a triumphant expression on his face, Dongfang Lianhua no longer paid him any attention and entered the Imperial Study. ¡°Ridiculous! Lianhua, discussing something like divorce, is it for you to mention? Your marriage with Feng Zhanlian was a blessed union bestowed by the late Emperor, one that you had requested at the beginning. Now you seek a divorce, does the Royal Family have no shame left?¡± Emperor Yongye was furiously angry, scolding Dongfang Lianhua and her daughter as soon as he saw them. Dongfang Lianhua raised her eyes to meet Emperor Yongye¡¯s raging gaze. ¡°Brother, the Royal Family lost its dignity long ago. Tell me, which Prince Consort is allowed to take concubines? One is not enough, but two?¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s eyes darkened, unexpectedly challenged by Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s rebuttal. ¡°Aunt Xue was with your consent. If you dislike Lady Nan Feng, you can keep her away. Feng Zhanlian has realized his mistake, so as for the divorce, I do not allow it. Don¡¯t bring it up again in the future.¡± ¡°Brother, he has never truly cared for me in his heart. He never considered Ah Ling and Luochen as his own children. If you do not permit it today, I shall kneel here and not rise.¡± Dongfang Lianhua knelt on the ground, repeatedly kowtowing heavily before Emperor Yongye, her forehead striking the hard, cold floor tiles. ¡°Your Majesty, I know the whereabouts of the secret edict. I am willing to trade the secret edict for my mother¡¯s freedom.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s words were astonishing. Chapter 101 - 101 103 Cant Wait to Marry Him ?Chapter 101: Chapter 103: Can¡¯t Wait to Marry Him Chapter 101: Chapter 103: Can¡¯t Wait to Marry Him Emperor Yongye¡¯s eyes deepened. ¡°Ah Ling, don¡¯t talk nonsense.¡± Dongfang Lianhua gripped her daughter¡¯s hand; her palm was ice-cold. From the corner of her eye, she caught a glimpse of Emperor Yongye¡¯s darkening expression and the murderous intent that was revealed as soon as the words ¡®secret edict¡¯ were mentioned. Accompanying the Emperor was like accompanying a tiger; Ah Ling had caused a big disaster this time. Dongfang Lianhua steeled her heart, preferring to die to protect her daughter¡¯s life should Emperor Yongye become enraged. Turning his back, Emperor Yongye¡¯s face was a tumult of light and shadow. That secret edict left by the late Emperor was related to his imperial throne, a chronic anxiety of his for many years; he had Feng Zhanlian investigate, but there had been no news. Today, at last, there was a lead. ¡°Reporting to Your Majesty, Prince Wu requests an audience from outside.¡± Li Qing spoke from outside. Dugu Wu. Why has he come again? Inside the Imperial Study, the three of them had varying expressions. ¡°Let him in.¡± Dugu Wu and the Old Grand Preceptor were at odds over the affairs of the Ministry of Revenue, which also troubled Emperor Yongye. ¡°Reporting to Your Majesty, this servant has forgotten to report: early this morning, I captured several spies from Beiqi.¡± Dugu Wu returned, leaning on a cane. ¡°Where are they?¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s turned around abruptly, his face an iron blue. ¡°Some have been executed, and a few are detained in the Capital Governor¡¯s prison. They confessed that their mission to Great Chu was to gather military intelligence and to capture Princess Yong¡¯an and her two children and take them back to Beiqi.¡± Dugu Wu then looked towards Feng Bailing and her daughter. ¡°Capture?¡± Emperor Yongye scoffed. As part of Feng Zhanlian¡¯s implication, Feng Luochen understood martial arts and was taught by Beiqi people; he had defected long ago, and Dongfang Lianhua was very likely a Beiqi spy too. ¡°First capture, then kill; those Beiqi spies did not hesitate to disguise themselves as people from the Fengtian gambling house to capture Feng Luochen. Feng Luochen has the bloodline of the Beiqi Grand Ancestor Emperor, possesses divine strength and is a martial arts prodigy. The Emperor of Beiqi, fearing future troubles, wanted to silence by murder, but unfortunately, Feng Luochen escaped. They laid the blame on Feng Luochen, whose body is outside.¡± Dugu Wu finished speaking, and Emperor Yongye pondered for a moment. The Beiqi Grand Ancestor Emperor was Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s maternal grandfather, the founder of Beiqi. He was a rare martial arts prodigy and one of the few supreme warriors who had condensed the Wuji Golden Seal. Could it be that Dongfang Lianhua and her children have indeed inherited his bloodline? Emperor Yongye ordered the body to be brought in. ¡°The coroner has already examined it; the wound was caused by a Beiqi Wolf Tooth Blade. They failed to capture Feng Luochen, so they staged the scene, attempting to frame Feng Luochen for the murder.¡± With just a few words, Dugu Wu cleared Feng Luochen of the murder charge. Divine strength, a martial arts prodigy? Dongfang Lianhua, kneeling on the ground, was confused; her head hung low. Was that really referring to her and her sons? What Beiqi spies? Weren¡¯t they just some men from the gambling house? Moreover, the body from the gambling house, when was it sent into Chu City? This man¡¯s actions were stealthy, yet one thing was certain¡ªhe had greatly assisted her and her daughter. Feng Luochen was safe. Emperor Yongye glanced at the body, his eyes devoid of any mirth. ¡°Dugu, although your body is unwell, your senses are even sharper than mine.¡± Dugu Wu spoke gravely. ¡°Your Majesty, please calm your anger. My senses are Your Majesty¡¯s senses. I have also received news that the Beiqi envoy will soon arrive in Chu City.¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s heart stirred. The obvious purpose of the Beiqi envoy¡¯s visit was to test Dugu Wu¡¯s leg injury, as well as the matter concerning Dongfang Lianhua. Although there had been no contact for many years, Dongfang Lianhua was, after all, cousins with that Emperor of Beiqi. If Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s family were to be troubled at this time, the Emperor of Beiqi would have an excuse to question Great Chu. Dugu Wu made a special effort to investigate the Beiqi spies, showing his concern for Feng Bailing, the prospective Princess Consort. The Princess¡¯ Mansion was originally a place where anyone could easily take advantage of its loneliness, but in the blink of an eye, it gained two big backers. ¡°Dugu, it¡¯s time to discuss your marriage with Ah Ling. The sooner Ah Ling marries over, the sooner she¡¯ll have someone to take care of you.¡± Emperor Yongye spoke with a smile, presenting himself as an elder. ¡°Thank you, Emperor. Princess Consort Shun has already selected an auspicious day. I have other matters to attend to and must take my leave first.¡± Dugu Wu exited. ¡°Lianhua, you can get up now. We are all family, and I cannot stand by and watch you being bullied.¡± ¡°Thank you, brother. Then, what about my matter with Feng Zhanlian?¡± Dongfang Lianhua felt a cold sweat in her hand. ¡°Divorce is a matter that affects the royal family¡¯s dignity, and you must think it over carefully. I will give you another three months to consider. During these three months, you may live separately from Feng Zhanlian. After three months, if you still wish to divorce, I will make the final decision.¡± When Emperor Yongye said the words ¡°final decision,¡± it carried a profound meaning as he looked towards Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing understood that Emperor Yongye intended to exchange the secret edict for Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s freedom. If nothing unexpected happened, the secret edict would be in Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. Could she really ask Dugu Wu for it? When the mother and daughter stepped out of the Imperial Study, it was already noon. ¡°Princess Yong¡¯an, Princess Shengping, the Empress Dowager has been informed of your entry to the palace and invites you over for a conversation.¡± The nanny from Ciyuan Palace was waiting outside and hurriedly spoke as she saw the two. ¡°I should go and inform the Empress Dowager about my divorce, as the matter has reached her ears as well.¡± Dongfang Lianhua said with a wry smile. As the mother and daughter arrived at the entrance of Ciyuan Palace, they saw Dugu Wu coming out from inside. He glanced indifferently at Feng Bailing as he saw her. ¡°Mother, I will escort Prince Wu.¡± Feng Bailing took the initiative to follow Dugu Wu. The two walked through the imperial garden, surrounded by a riot of flowers, with colorful butterflies fluttering among the blossoms. ¡°Thank you for today.¡± Feng Bailing knew that without Dugu Wu¡¯s appearance, Emperor Yongye would never have changed his stance, and Luochen¡¯s accusations couldn¡¯t have been cleared. ¡°Indeed, Feng Luochen carries the royal bloodline of Beiqi, and your mother has inherited a part of the Grand Ancestor Emperor¡¯s bloodline as well. You weren¡¯t picked up, were you?¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s heterochromic eyes swept disdainfully over Feng Bailing. Apart from medical skills, utterly useless. ¡°When should we schedule our wedding date?¡± Feng Bailing repeated to herself that he was a much-needed Great Replenishing Pills, and she would endure! She needed to get her hands on that secret edict and marry into Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion as soon as possible. ¡°Are you so eager?¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes darkened. Does she not realize that every woman who marries him meets an unfortunate end? Although he didn¡¯t plan to have any intimate actions with her, this woman had always been infatuated with him, and he couldn¡¯t guarantee she wouldn¡¯t develop ill intentions towards him. ¡°I¡¯m considering it for the sake of your leg.¡± Feng Bailing declared confidently. While they were talking, they saw Nalan Yan¡¯er and others, including Princess Consort Guo, walking on a cobblestone path nearby. Nalan Yan¡¯er looked up and saw Feng Bailing whispering something into Dugu Wu¡¯s ear amid the flowers. Envy filled her heart, and she whispered. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Princess Feng and Prince Wu?¡± A young girl beside Princess Consort Guo heard Feng Bailing¡¯s name and jumped in fright, hastily hiding behind Princess Consort Guo. Nalan Yan¡¯er exclaimed. ¡°Mingxia, why do you look so pale?¡± Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu turned to look over upon hearing the voice. Chapter 102 - 102 104 Wedding Ruined ?Chapter 102: Chapter 104: Wedding, Ruined? Chapter 102: Chapter 104: Wedding, Ruined? Feng Bailing recognized the woman; it was the same one she encountered earlier at Yuxiu Academy accompanying Princess Consort Guo. Dugu Wu spoke in a deep voice. ¡°Princess Mingxia, she is my sister.¡± Feng Bailing suddenly remembered some past events. Princess Mingxia is Dugu Wu¡¯s half-sister from a different mother and was also Feng Bailing¡¯s classmate at Yuxiu Academy, two years younger than Feng Bailing. Seeing Ye Lingyue and Dugu Wu, especially when seeing Feng Bailing, Princess Consort Guo¡¯s expression turned ugly. She quickly protected the startled Princess Mingxia and loudly said. ¡°Mingxia, don¡¯t be afraid. With me here, no one can bully you.¡± ¡°Princess Consort Guo, the Crown Princess Consort.¡± Feng Bailing made a bow. ¡°Your respects, I cannot accept them.¡± Princess Consort Guo¡¯s expression was severe as she swept her eyes over Dugu Wu. ¡°Prince Wu, Mingxia is, after all, your sister. Back then, when Feng Bailing pushed her into the water, it caused her to become mute. Should you still take such a woman back? How could you do justice to the ancestors of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion?¡± Pushed into the water? Feng Bailing was stunned, recalling some events. Four years ago, while still studying at Yuxiu Academy, Feng Bailing didn¡¯t pass the monthly evaluation and was already in a bad mood when she heard from Feng Xiangxue that someone was badmouthing her behind her back. She found out that it was Princess Mingxia and confronted her. The two struggled by the lakeside, and accidentally, Princess Mingxia fell into the lake. By the time she was rescued, it was said she had developed a severe illness due to this incident and failing the monthly evaluation, which soon led to Feng Bailing being expelled from the academy. Later, Feng Bailing became pregnant and was sent to a different residence, and she lost track of Princess Mingxia¡¯s condition. She became mute? Feng Bailing observed Princess Mingxia, who looked like a frightened bird, muttering and tugging at Princess Consort Guo, intending to leave. ¡°Mingxia, did Feng Bailing push you into the water?¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s face was cold as he stared at Princess Mingxia. Although Princess Mingxia and Dugu Wu were siblings, they were not close, and Dugu Wu was unclear about the incident back then. Princess Mingxia dared not say a word. ¡°Prince Wu, don¡¯t make it difficult for Mingxia, she¡¯s already pitiful enough.¡± Princess Consort Guo was Princess Mingxia¡¯s maternal aunt and had always cherished her poor niece. She had heard some rumors about Feng Bailing before and had a poor impression of her. It was today that Nalan Yan¡¯er spoke of it, and she learned that it was Feng Bailing who harmed Mingxia. Dugu Wu¡¯s gaze grew colder. Pushing someone into the water was something Feng Bailing could do; her kindness to Xiaojin must have been pretence too. Remembering the women he married before who also had a hypocritical facade, and thinking that he was nearly deceived by Feng Bailing, Dugu Wu shook off Feng Bailing¡¯s hand and turned to leave. ¡°Princess Shengping, you better watch yourself.¡± Princess Consort Guo also said coldly, as Nalan Yan¡¯er sighed softly and led Princess Mingxia away. When Dongfang Lianhua came out from the Empress Dowager¡¯s palace, she saw Feng Bailing looking rather dejected. On the ride home in the horse carriage, she couldn¡¯t help but ask. ¡°Ah Ling, your mother asks if Princess Mingxia turning mute had anything to do with you?¡± Upon hearing this, Feng Bailing responded. ¡°Mother, did you hear something?¡± ¡°I heard some idle gossip today in the Empress Dowager¡¯s palace that Princess Mingxia became mute because you pushed her into the water. She was frightened, swallowed water, and that¡¯s how she became mute. Everyone in the Imperial Palace is talking about this; neither the Empress Dowager nor I believe it. If it wasn¡¯t you, tell your mother, and I will explain for you.¡± Dongfang Lianhua held her daughter¡¯s hand tightly. Feng Bailing offered a bitter smile. ¡°Mother, this matter does indeed involve me. Back at Yuxiu Academy, I had a dispute with Princess Mingxia, but I did not push her into the water. Dugu Wu is angry with me because of this; our marriage is likely to be called off.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll speak to the Princess Consort.¡± Dongfang Lianhua couldn¡¯t sit still anymore. Today in the Imperial Palace, Dugu Wu had helped them a great deal, reaffirming her belief that Dugu Wu was someone her daughter could entrust her life to. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ve grown up, and I will figure out a way to solve our problems.¡± Feng Bailing comforted Dongfang Lianhua, saying these words, but she understood in her heart that it would not be easy. The incident had occurred long ago, Princess Mingxia had become mute, and there were no witnesses; getting her name cleared could only happen if Princess Mingxia spoke. But Princess Mingxia was so afraid of her, let alone getting her testimony, it was difficult even to ask her a question. Feng Bailing fell into deep thought. In the afternoon, inside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Lady Nan Feng personally brewed a medicinal soup and had Feng Zhanlian drink it. ¡°Master, don¡¯t worry, after drinking the medicine for two more days, your throat would recover.¡± Lady Nan Feng was true to her word and sold the Shanyin Inn, her people brought over a stack of silver notes. Feng Zhanlian was very satisfied with Lady Nan Feng. ¡°Is there any way to restore my hand?¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s right hand was injured by Dugu Wu and he couldn¡¯t write normally. ¡°Your hand was hurt by Dugu Wu, who is a Wuji Expert. He used Gang Qi when he struck, and your Eight Meridians were hurt, there really is no way to restore it.¡± Lady Nan Feng mentioned Dugu Wu, a fleeting hint of strangeness flashed across her eyes, but she concealed it well, and Feng Zhanlian didn¡¯t notice. ¡°Big brother, come out and see.¡± While Feng Zhanlian was being affectionate with Lady Nan Feng, he saw Feng Zhan Tian¡¯s plump body stumbling in. ¡°What¡¯s all this noise about? Don¡¯t you see I¡¯m busy?¡± Feng Zhanlian said displeased. ¡°Big brother, the Princess is outside with a bunch of masons smashing walls and sealing the door, claiming...¡± Feng Zhan Tian¡¯s face was pale. ¡°Claiming what?¡± Feng Zhanlian felt something was seriously wrong upon hearing this. ¡°They claim it¡¯s a decree for separation, intending to split the Princess¡¯ Mansion in two.¡± Outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, a crowd had gathered, both spectators and workers. Several masons had sealed the main gate of the Princess¡¯ Mansion completely, even taking down the mansion¡¯s plaque. The Feng Family had to enter and exit from a side door beside the gate. Moreover, the masons also built a high wall in front of the east wing, cutting off contact between the two sides. Outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, the onlookers and passersby were also buzzing with discussions, their gazes towards the members of the Feng Mansion full of interest. ¡°Dongfang Lianhua, have you gone mad?¡± The scholarly facade that Feng Zhanlian usually maintained in front of others finally cracked. He cared about his face more than life, how could he tolerate others talking about him like this? He rushed to the east wing, looking like he wanted to tear Dongfang Lianhua apart. He searched around and found that Dongfang Lianhua was under the shade of a tree, leisurely practicing a set of strange boxing techniques. Dongfang Lianhua ignored him, finishing her set of military boxing before feeling the long-held knot in her chest finally disappear. She took the handkerchief passed by Mrs. Su, wiped her forehead, her formerly sickly face was now rosy. ¡°Feng Zhanlian, if you want to restore things back to normal, go argue with the Emperor. I¡¯m only following the order of separation. This half a year, I¡¯ve kept living arrangements for your Feng family, and I have done my utmost duty.¡± Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s words left no room for negotiation. Ordered separation? Feng Zhanlian was momentarily dazed and couldn¡¯t recover. ¡°You disaster star, how dare you humiliate my son like this? I will kill you! Killing you would solve everything!¡± Old Madam Feng¡¯s face was full of anger, her son was the top scorer, her son-in-law was the Seventh Prince, and yet this woman dared to humiliate the Feng Family so! She swung her Jiutou Stick towards Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s face. Chapter 103 - 103 105 Endearing Little Boy ?Chapter 103: Chapter 105: Endearing Little Boy Chapter 103: Chapter 105: Endearing Little Boy Dongfang Lianhua felt a throbbing pain in the wound on her forehead left earlier. Crack¡ª She snapped the walking stick in half. Old Madam Feng cried out in pain and fell to the ground, stunned. Dongfang Lianhua actually dared to fight back! Dongfang Lianhua looked down on her from above. They had the same face, the same person. But the cold light in her eyes made Old Madam Feng swallow back the curse that had reached her lips. ¡°What are you supposed to be? You Feng Family are nothing but maggots living under my Princess¡¯ Mansion. From now on, if anyone dares to act recklessly, don¡¯t blame me for throwing you out!¡± Dongfang Lianhua crushed the Jiutou Stick in her hand, her gaze slowly sweeping over the members of the Feng Family. Everyone her gaze touched felt a chill surge from the soles of their feet. ¡°Elder brother, say something, she¡¯s saying she¡¯ll kick us out! I won¡¯t leave, the Princess¡¯ Mansion is ours.¡± Old Madam Feng cried and wailed. ¡°Big brother...¡± The usually eloquent Feng Zhan Tian was also at a loss for words. Feng Bailing did not witness this drama at the Princess¡¯ Mansion in person; she had gotten off the horse carriage midway to visit Xinglin Spring, but she was confident that Dongfang Lianhua could handle the matter. Upon entering Xinglin Spring, there were not many customers. Hair cream was displayed on the shelves, Su Wang was organizing the accounts, and Lu Yin was studying the hair cream brewed by Feng Bailing. The original doctor of Xinglin Spring, Yang Shoucai, was beaten to death after provoking public outrage, and they had not yet found a suitable new doctor. Feng Bailing then invited Lu Yin over, who would come to consult on the first and fifteenth of every month, and at other times, if there were difficult and complicated diseases, Feng Bailing had to intervene herself. A few days after the reopening, there were only a handful of customers, and Su Wang¡¯s eyebrows were knotted with worry. Lu Yin held the hair cream brewed by Feng Bailing and sniffed it. ¡°Old ginger, azurite, angelica, and dry pine, these four medicinal herbs can actually make black hair oil. Master Feng, this thing can make a lot of silver.¡± As he spoke, Lu Yin pulled out a few silver notes from his bosom. ¡°This is the gambling money you won, Dugu Wu asked me to bring it to you. How did you offend Dugu Wu? His face was as dark as the bottom of a pot, and he won¡¯t let Xiaojin contact you anymore.¡± Feng Bailing pursed her lips. Good you, Dugu Wu, it¡¯s enough that you misunderstood me, but you also forbid me from seeing Xiaojin, I insist on seeing her. Feng Bailing explained the whole story. ¡°You pushed Princess Mingxia into the water? I don¡¯t believe it. If you were going to harm someone, you wouldn¡¯t need to do it yourself.¡± Lu Yin shook his head. A basin of evergreen leaves directly made Zhanlian mute. ¡°You should say this to Dugu Wu.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t blame Dugu Wu for being paranoid. There are too many deceitful people around him, he is just afraid that you would mistreat Xiaojin after marrying into his house. Let him cool off for a few days, I¡¯ll talk to him again. But Princess Mingxia is quite pitiful, a fine lady, now mute, she¡¯s already seventeen this year and no one has come to propose marriage, Princess Consort Shun sighs all day.¡± Lu Yin shook his head. Once the rumor about Feng Bailing pushing Mingxia into water spreads, Princess Consort Shun will be furious with Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing held a thick stack of silver notes, looking at the seal on them. ¡°Is Jubao House opened by Dugu Wu?¡± ¡°He is one of the owners, it¡¯s him, me, and a few good brothers who opened it together.¡± Lu Yin gave a nonchalant look. Feng Bailing counted. ¡°How come there¡¯s only fifty thousand taels? I wagered one thousand taels; the odds were one to one hundred twenty-five. I should have gotten 125,000 taels in hand. Even after deducting Jubao House¡¯s interest, there should still be a hundred thousand taels.¡± Feng Bailing glared at Lu Yin, this fellow truly is a shady businessman. ¡°Madam, no wonder you were able to pass the Yuxiu Academy exam¡ªyour speed at calculating is even faster than Jubao House¡¯s accountant. Only Dugu can compete with you. Don¡¯t forget that you pawned it too. Dugu Wu said this jade is worth fifty thousand taels; take it back, and the fifty thousand taels go to the pawnshop.¡± Lu Yin took out the jade pendant and threw it to Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing felt like crying without tears, just how much property does Dugu Wu own in Chu City! ¡°This thing, although it¡¯s just a stone, is very important to Dugu; it¡¯s the only thing left by his mother, more important than his life. Don¡¯t lose it again. Even though Dugu is mad at you, he hasn¡¯t reclaimed the jade, which shows there¡¯s still room for maneuver. If you can find a way, try to help Princess Mingxia regain her speech; if she can speak, Dugu¡¯s anger might subside.¡± Lu Yin kindly pointed out. After Lu Yin delivered the silver note, Feng Bailing returned to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Seeing the Princess¡¯ Mansion bisected, Feng Bailing was delighted, yet she worried about the still-angry Dugu Wu. Although she had given birth, she had never been in a relationship, let alone coaxed a man, so she could only think of another plan. The night passed without incident, and the next day, Feng Bailing was to start school at Yuxiu Academy. She thought she might meet Princess Mingxia today¡ªto undo the bell one must tie it, and the solution lies with Princess Mingxia. The horse carriage of the Princess¡¯ Mansion stopped at the intersection of the Imperial Academy and Yuxiu Academy. ¡°Xiao Li, are you really going to the Imperial Academy alone?¡± ¡°Xiao Li is already a big child, not like that annoying Dongfang Jin, always needing someone to accompany him.¡± Feng Xiaoli¡¯s cheeks puffed out, resembling a little goldfish. Moreover, Brother Xiaojin always goes to school alone; she wanted to emulate Brother Xiaojin. Feng Bailing knew that Xiao Li and Xiaojin had become good friends, which made her happy. She hadn¡¯t seen Feng Zao last night and didn¡¯t know if Dugu Wu, in his anger, had withdrawn him too. She planned to sneak out in the afternoon to see Dugu Xiaojin and investigate his father¡¯s intentions. Watching her daughter, backpack swaying like a little duckling, walking towards the Imperial Academy, Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but smile. The horse carriage then took Feng Bailing to the outside of Yuxiu Academy, where a small figure stood facing the wall. ¡°Xiaojin, what brings you here?¡± Feng Bailing was both surprised and delighted. Lu Yin had said that Dugu Wu would not allow Dugu Xiaojin to see her, she thought Dugu Xiaojin would ignore her from now on. Dugu Xiaojin was here to find Feng Bailing but had come early. He was handsome, resembling a porcelain doll, and when the girls from Yuxiu Academy who came to study saw him, they all stared at him, making him, who suffered from gynophobia, feel stiff all over, so he simply stared at the wall and zoned out. Hearing Feng Bailing¡¯s voice, Dugu Xiaojin showed a smile. He reached into his bosom and pulled out a crumpled silver note, respectfully handing it to Feng Bailing. It was a one thousand taels silver note from Jubao House. Dugu Xiaojin had gambled all the money from the small porcelain pig on Feng Bailing, earning a full one thousand taels. His father told him he could handle this money, and without hesitation, he came looking for Feng Bailing. Every time the ladies from Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion asked his father for money, they would, without exception, cry about having no jewelry and no clothes¡ªDugu Xiaojin remembered this well: women always lack clothes and jewelry. ¡°Does your father know?¡± Feng Bailing was so excited she nearly shed a mother¡¯s tears. Dugu Xiaojin nodded, biting his lip lightly. His father was very angry after returning to the mansion yesterday and forbade him from seeing Feng Bailing again. But he couldn¡¯t help himself... Dugu Xiaojin pulled out a sheet of paper, on which was written a line of characters. Chapter 104 - 104 106 The Snobbish Classmate ?Chapter 104: Chapter 106: The Snobbish Classmate Chapter 104: Chapter 106: The Snobbish Classmate ¡°Husbands and wives don¡¯t carry grudges overnight; they fight at the head of the bed and reconcile at the foot of it. My father has been at the Ministry of Revenue these past few days.¡± Speaking thus, the little one dashed off. Feng Bailing was unable to help but laugh and cry at the words written on the paper. Who told him this? It must have been Feng Wan! Fighting at the head and reconciling at the foot of the bed, alas, for the sake of her child, she had better make amends with Dugu Wu. Not wanting to reject Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s kindness, Feng Bailing accepted the silver note. She decided to invest the money into the Medicine Shop and save it annually for Xiaojin, as her dowry fund! At Yuxiu Academy, all the new female students recruited this year had arrived. Although they were all new students, the noble female students maintained a significant distance from the commoner female students, as if being too close would degrade their status. A commoner female student walked over. Just a few steps forward, and a foot stretched out in front of her, causing her to stumble and fall to the ground. ¡°Are you blind? You stepped on my new embroidered shoes. These were bought by my father from an Imperial merchant of Daye Country, a pair costing fifty taels. You wretch have dirtied them; compensate me quickly.¡± A beautiful young girl cried out. The fallen student¡¯s face turned pale with fright, trembling like a small rabbit and reaching out to wipe the embroidery girl¡¯s shoes. ¡°I... I¡¯ll wipe them for you...¡± ¡°Keep your dirty hands off.¡± The embroidery-clad female student kicked away the commoner girl¡¯s hand. Feng Bailing and Ouyang Chenchen entered, and Feng Bailing scanned the crowd but did not see Princess Mingxia. Witnessing this scene, Ouyang Chenchen, who was upright and straightforward, briskly stepped forward and pulled up the commoner student. ¡°You claim she stepped on it? I clearly saw you stick out your foot to trip her. If it were me, I would dare to break your leg. And these shoes of yours are worth fifty taels?¡± Ouyang Chenchen glanced at the shoes on the student¡¯s feet. ¡°Daye Country¡¯s Treading Snow Shoes, fifty taels, genuinely irreplaceable. She dirtied them, she must compensate.¡± The embroidery-clad female student said haughtily. Treading Snow Shoes are rarely seen in Great Chu; only the princesses and imperial concubines of the Royal Family wear them. ¡°Treading Snow Shoes are only embroidered with orchids and plums, with three threads mixed with one silver thread. Your pattern has peach flowers and lacks the silver thread, clearly fake. The shoes I¡¯m wearing are genuinely irreplaceable Treading Snow Shoes, see? There¡¯s also a vermillion imprint on them that doesn¡¯t fade even when exposed to water or fire. Your tattered shoes, I wouldn¡¯t even pay one tael for them.¡± Ouyang Chenchen lifted her own foot, revealing indeed an imprint on the sole. The face of the embroidery-clad student immediately couldn¡¯t hang on anymore. At that moment, the vice dean walked in. ¡°Today is the first day of class; you should all have received your academy uniforms and name tags by now. Yuxiu Academy is divided into four classes: Sun, Moon, Star, and Celestial.¡± The vice dean spoke, beginning to announce the school rules. The rules of Yuxiu Academy, as stated by the vice dean, were lengthy and complex, taking half an hour just to finish. ¡°As I just mentioned, there are four classes in Yuxiu Academy, mainly studying the Six Arts and the Eight Elegances. The talents learned in each class are the same; there will be a small evaluation monthly and a major evaluation every six months. Failing two small evaluations or one major evaluation will result in expulsion from Yuxiu Academy.¡± The vice dean spoke and glanced again at Feng Bailing. Several years ago, when Feng Bailing entered Yuxiu Academy, she had chosen the vice dean¡¯s guqin class and failed her first month¡¯s small evaluations. Later, Feng Bailing pushed Princess Mingxia into the lake, nearly causing a fatal accident. Although the incident wasn¡¯t widely spread, the vice dean¡¯s impression of Feng Bailing was extremely poor. Feng Bailing and Ouyang Chenchen were both assigned to the Celestial class. The earlier bullied commoner girl was also assigned to the Celestial class; she came over to thank them. ¡°I¡¯m Mo Qianqian, thank you both; if it weren¡¯t for your help just now, I really wouldn¡¯t know what to do.¡± Mo Qianqian said with a lingering fear in her heart. ¡°A piece of cake.¡± Ouyang Chenchen said generously, and within just a few exchanges, they had become familiar with each other. ¡°I also admire the Crown Princess Consort Nalan a lot, which is why I came to study at the Yuxiu Academy. Unfortunately, during the assessment, I was too busy with my preparations to have a conversation with her.¡± Mo Qianqian mentioned Nalan Yan¡¯er with a face full of admiration. ¡°Seeing someone in person is not always as impressive as hearing about them. I actually think she doesn¡¯t live up to her reputation.¡± Ouyang Chenchen always felt that Nalan Yan¡¯er wore a mask in dealing with people, which was too exhausting; Bai Ling, on the other hand, was better ¨C not to mention her looks, her personality is good, and she is talented. ¡°The position of the Crown Princess Consort is not easy to hold. Being too high-profile makes one prone to jealousy, and being too low-profile leads to being trampled upon. If I were you, I¡¯d just focus on learning skills at the Yuxiu Academy. Having a skill is much more reliable than getting married.¡± Feng Bailing gave Mo Qianqian a meaningful look. Mo Qianqian remained silent. ¡°What classes have you chosen?¡± Ouyang Chenchen was pondering over several courses. It is for a reason that the Yuxiu Academy is considered a leader among women¡¯s academies in the Great Chu; ordinary academies only teach the six arts ¨C rites, music, archery, charioteering, calligraphy, and mathematics, along with qin, chess, reading, painting, and poetry. But in the Imperial Academy and Yuxiu Academy of the Great Chu, the Imperial Academy requires learning rites, music, archery, charioteering, calligraphy, mathematics, qin, chess, reading, painting, poetry, and fragrance. Because the Yuxiu Academy is a women¡¯s academy, it includes rites, music, calligraphy, mathematics, qin, chess, reading, painting, fragrance, flowers, and tea; in comparison to male academies, there are actually more choices. As for archery and charioteering, Yuxiu Academy also offers courses, but not many students take them, mainly relying on male teachers¡¯ popularity to recruit female students. A student only needs to study three subjects a year. ¡°I have already chosen mine. I¡¯ll take archery, charioteering, and fragrance classes.¡± With a flourish, Ouyang Chenchen chose three subjects. Feng Bailing had earlier noticed that Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s palms did not have the delicate skin typical of girls; there were calluses at the base of her thumb. If she was not mistaken, Daye Country is also known as the ¡®Dynasty on horseback,¡¯ where both men and women excel in horseback riding and archery. Feng Bailing smiled inwardly. ¡°I¡¯ll accompany you then.¡± She was not interested in qin, chess, calligraphy, and painting, and she also wanted to avoid meeting Feng Xiangxue, Feng Ruoyan, the Vice Dean, and others. ¡°You chose the fragrance class?¡± ¡°If I remember correctly, does the fragrance class teach wine tasting and brewing?¡± In that previous lifetime, Feng Bailing had already struggled with just handling qin, chess, calligraphy, and painting in Yuxiu Academy, and had not explored the other subjects. ¡°In the Imperial Academy, ¡®fragrance¡¯ indeed refers to wine. Yuxiu Academy is meant to nurture ladies, and originally it planned to change to perfume blending. But who knew the Dean would say that it was appealing yet impractical, so they changed it to a new ¡®fragrance¡¯ course, which refers to the kitchen. It¡¯s newly introduced, and the teacher might still be a chef, so no one wants to choose it.¡± Mo Qianqian was unwilling to learn cooking skills. She had finally left her hometown and did not want to end up like her mother, spending her life busy in the kitchen. Women in the kitchen always ends up greasy and aged, unlike the Crown Princess Consort Nalan, who was fresh as a lotus flower, radiant in any setting. ¡°Cooking skills are quite useful, I¡¯ve been wanting to refine my culinary skills.¡± Feng Bailing, seeing Mo Qianqian¡¯s reaction, knew she wasn¡¯t of the same mind as herself and Ouyang Chenchen. Indeed, Feng Bailing was looking to capture a man¡¯s heart through his stomach, but it was just a little boy. Xiao Li was fine, being a food lover who wasn¡¯t picky. It was said that Dugu Xiaojin was picky about food; once she married into Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, she would have to change that bad habit. After choosing their courses, the group made plans to go together and familiarize themselves with Yuxiu Academy, but unfortunately, Feng Bailing ran into Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan on the way. Chapter 105 - 105 107 Uninvited Guest ?Chapter 105: Chapter 107: Uninvited Guest Chapter 105: Chapter 107: Uninvited Guest ¡°Sister Ling, are you getting used to being back in class on your first day? Do you need any help from me?¡± Feng Xiangxue asked softly. ¡°Sister, why are you being so polite with her? She can¡¯t wait to kick all of us out. Both she and her mother are ungrateful wretches.¡± Feng Ruoyan was not as hypocritical as Feng Xiangxue; she had always found Feng Bailing unpleasant to look at, and harbored deep hatred for Dongfang Lianhua and her daughter, who wanted to get rid of their family. ¡°Who are you calling ungrateful wretches? A bunch of freeloaders. That old pale face even wants to take concubines. Only Aunt Dongfang would put up with such a temper. If it were me, I¡¯d resort to a white knife and a red knife, and an extermination, wiping all of you clean.¡± Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s face was filled with ferocity, scaring Feng Ruoyan and Feng Xiangxue till their faces turned pale. ¡°Fatty Ouyang, how dare you! Apologize to Ruoyan and Xiangxue immediately, or you¡¯ll regret it.¡± Dongfang Li happened to walk by and saw Ouyang Chenchen; remembering the last time she made a fool out of him, he was infuriated. The two, unable to stand each other, readied themselves for a fight. ¡°Princess Feng, Miss Ouyang, the principal is looking for you.¡± Dongfang Mosheng, holding a zither, nodded slightly towards them; while Dongfang Li and Ouyang Chenchen were arguing, he had been sitting in the nearby pavilion. ¡°Thank you, Ninth Prince, we¡¯ll go right away.¡± Feng Bailing just remembered that Lady Nan Xiu had asked them to find her at Wangyue Pavilion on the first day of school. It was standard for new female students to familiarize themselves with Yuxiu Academy on their first day, and with no duties in the afternoon, and coincidentally having matters to discuss with Lady Nan Xiu, Feng Bailing took Ouyang Chenchen and turned to leave. Dongfang Li walked away in a huff, pulling Dongfang Mosheng with him. Feng Xiangxue watched jealously as Feng Bailing and the others left. The principal hardly taught classes these days, and her seeking out Feng Bailing and Ouyang Chenchen meant she was certainly offering private lessons. That day, when Feng Bailing¡¯s Suona performance took everyone by surprise, did she really have that kind of talent? Ever since she was young, Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t even understand complicated sheet music, there had to be a reason. After that piece, she had also asked Nalan Yan¡¯er, but even the astute Nalan Yan¡¯er could only remember half of it. If she could learn that piece, perhaps the principal would look at her with new eyes and take her on as a disciple, after all, she was much more outstanding than Feng Bailing and Fatty Ouyang. ¡°I¡¯m feeling a bit under the weather, so I won¡¯t attend the vice-principal¡¯s lesson.¡± With a thought, Feng Xiangxue sent Feng Ruoyan away and then headed towards Wangyue Pavilion, intending to secretly learn something. Maybe, during the mid-month assessment, she could rise to the top. On the seventh floor of Wangyue Pavilion, Lady Nan Xiu had been waiting for some time. Upon seeing Feng Bailing, a smile unconsciously raised at the corners of her mouth, her eyes shining. Feng Bailing was reluctant to accept her as a disciple, but after giving her the sheet music for ¡°Ten Sides Ambush,¡± she practiced hard for several days and still had some unclear parts, waiting for Feng Bailing to enlighten her. ¡°Chenchen, the teacher has picked these books for you; you need to come here after school every day and continue to study diligently. Every month, you should finish at least three books, and the teacher will assess you at the end of the month. If you fail the assessment, the teacher will put you in solitary confinement for three days, where you can only eat one meal a day.¡± Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s face was stern as she pointed to a thick row of bookshelves. Hearing this, Ouyang Chenchen was overwhelmed. Thousands of thick books on the bookshelf, ranging from the Four Books and Five Classics three enlightenment books, biographies of ancient sages, to eight-legged essays and various schools of thought, dazzled the eyes. ¡°Master, you must be joking. I¡¯m not made for studying.¡± Ouyang Chenchen tried to run away. Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s face darkened, and she struck down with her palm, shaving off a corner of the green jade table in front of her. The cut was smooth and even, as if the hard tabletop was just a block of tofu. Ouyang Chenchen shivered and froze mid-step. ¡°Am I the only one who suffers? What about Bailing? A nominal disciple is still a disciple. Master, you can¡¯t treat us differently.¡± Ouyang Chenchen wailed, wishing to share her troubles with a good sister. ¡°The teacher has another arrangement.¡± Lady Nan Xiu waved her hand, leading Feng Bailing to the east side of Wangyue Pavilion. A small teahouse was set up here, one side open to a gallery where one could take in the beautiful scenery of Yuxiu Academy at a glance. This was also where Lady Nan Xiu had played chess with Dugu Wu the last time. A small red clay stove was already brewing new tea, and there was an ancient zither on the table. ¡°Predecessor Bailing, I am not well-skilled in my studies. That day, you played the Suona piece, and I dared to take notes, but, unfortunately, I missed a few parts...¡± Feng Bailing directed, Lady Nan Xiu played, and both were satisfied. ¡°Principal, in terms of martial arts, my constitution has always prevented me from gathering Qi.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s vexation was precisely this. Relying on the Seventh Sense alone, she often felt overwhelmed when facing enemies, and if the Seventh Sense was insufficient, she found it hard to protect herself. Gong Zhu said she had Pure Yang Qi in her body, and she practiced martial arts according to Gong Zhu¡¯s Method, but she could never gather enough Qi at the Dantian, and without sufficient Qi, she couldn¡¯t form the Wuji Seal. Lady Nan Xiu grabbed Feng Bailing¡¯s wrist. How could there be Pure Yang Qi in the predecessor¡¯s body? Something stirred in Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s mind. ¡°Your constitution is very special. Originally, having been a mother, you couldn¡¯t continue practicing martial arts, but because of your constitution, I might have a Method that could help you.¡± As she spoke, Lady Nan Xiu picked up a brush and inkstone and wrote on a piece of paper. ¡°Predecessor, I have some trivial matters to attend to, so you can practice here on your own.¡± After Lady Nan Xiu left, Feng Bailing was about to look at the paper when she heard footsteps outside. Through the screen, she could vaguely see two men; the men were tall, and even from a distance, one could feel the terrifying Gang Qi emanating from their bodies. ¡°Master, that tune was transmitted from here. The principal has already left, and the woman you¡¯re looking for must still be here.¡± The newcomers were obviously up to no good. As they seemed about to come over, in a moment of panic, Feng Bailing snatched the paper from the table. Chapter 106 - 106 108 Medical Cabin ?Chapter 106: Chapter 108: Medical Cabin Chapter 106: Chapter 108: Medical Cabin A master and a servant bypassed the mountain and water screen. Behind the screen, the fragrance of tea had not yet dissipated, two empty cups sat there, and an ancient zither was displayed, without a trace of anyone. ¡°We are one step too late, that little beauty has run away.¡± The man stroked his sallow face; he was dressed in a silver-gray robe, tall and strong. Although he seemed ordinary in appearance, the fierce light in his eyes made him appear unruly and wild. This man was the very same mysterious man who, outside Yuxiu Academy that day, had not stopped praising upon hearing the sound of the suona. Ever since that day, he had been devising strategies to ascertain the identity and origins of that woman. The woman had a delicate appearance and understood how to integrate Blessing Technique into the music. If he could have her, his Ghost Army¡¯s strength would undoubtedly reach a new level. The man squinted his eyes; there was still a faint scent of a woman in the air. ¡°Master, the other party is inside Yuxiu Academy, why don¡¯t we just kidnap her directly?¡± His subordinate suggested. ¡°Do you think Yuxiu Academy is a place where you can come and go as you please? Lady Nan Xiu is accomplished in both letters and martial arts. If she hadn¡¯t been out on business, we would have had no way to sneak in here. Moreover... did you see that fat man to the north? He is a Wuji Expert. If it weren¡¯t for him falling asleep while reading, we would have been discovered entering.¡± The man¡¯s eyes were deep and profound. ¡°However, there will always be opportunities. She has to go home eventually. I have inquired about her; she is the daughter of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Just keep an eye on the horse carriages of the Feng Mansion.¡± The man curled his lips, licked his tongue, a cunning glint flashing across his eyes. Then, a series of thumping footsteps approached from this side. Ouyang Chenchen came yawning. The man and his subordinate vanished in a flash, leaping down from the seventh floor of the pagoda. ¡°Ah Ling?¡± Ouyang Chenchen had been sleeping soundly but felt some strange noises and came over. Having walked just a few steps, he saw a suspicious figure flash past the staircase. ¡°Feng Xiangxue, what are you doing here?¡± Ouyang Chenchen saw Feng Xiangxue, and his sleepiness vanished instantly. ¡°I just came to see if Sister Bailing was here. I¡¯m not feeling well and wanted to ride back with her.¡± Feng Xiangxue spoke with evasion; in fact, she came to steal the techniques. Earlier, while the dean was playing the zither, she hid on the sixth floor of the pagoda to avoid being noticed, but regretfully, she could only remember thirty to forty percent of the score after racking her brains. Ouyang Chenchen frowned, feeling that something was amiss. Right at that moment, Feng Bailing walked out. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. Since you¡¯re not feeling well, I¡¯ll go back to the mansion with you.¡± After Dongfang Lianhua and Feng Zhanlian were ordered to live separately, the horse carriages of Feng Mansion stopped fetching the sisters Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan. Early this morning, Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan had to hire a carriage themselves to come here. Feng Bailing glanced at Feng Xiangxue and caught Feng Xiangxue hiding the suona behind her. She was here to steal the techniques. Feng Xiangxue, since she was little, no matter what Feng Bailing learned, she would follow and learn too. Midway through, she would surpass Feng Bailing. Previously, Feng Bailing lacked perseverance and gave up quickly whenever she couldn¡¯t learn, thus ending up with the nickname ¡®Feng Sanwu¡¯ (Feng the Talentless). Was she trying to repeat the same trick this time? Thinking about what those two mysterious men said earlier, Feng Bailing then agreed to Feng Xiangxue¡¯s request. Upon hearing this, Feng Xiangxue inwardly cursed Feng Bailing as a fool. Just you wait. After she learned a few more times and stole a few more tricks, she would definitely play better than Feng Bailing. With a face full of gratitude, she said she would call Feng Ruoyan to go together, and then they left. Ouyang Chenchen discontentedly said, ¡°Why did you agree to go back with those two scheming sisters?¡± She had seen too much in Father Emperor¡¯s harem, where the Concubines would call each other sisters one night but turn their faces and refuse to recognize each other the next day, employing all sorts of methods like inducing miscarriage or vying for favor. ¡°It¡¯s just on the way.¡± Feng Bailing merely smiled without speaking. While Ouyang Chenchen was distracted, Feng Bailing reflected on the recent events. The moment her Seventh Sense stirred, the page of the manuscript from Lady Nan Feng fell into her hand. At that critical moment, she had only one thought: if only there were a place to hide, like the Medical Cabin she used to have. In the 22nd century, Feng Bailing¡¯s Seventh Sense was even more dominant, and she was able to unlock multiple spaces such as the emergency kit, Medical Cabin, and military supply room. Regrettably, to return to this time, only the emergency kit was usable. But with her thought, in the next moment, she disappeared into thin air, and when she came to her senses, the air was filled with familiar scents of Eastern and Western medicine, as well as disinfectant. The long-missed scent! The Medical Cabin! Inside the Medical Cabin, there was an operating table, some high-end medical equipment, and a key to the military supply room. Feng Bailing didn¡¯t have time to look closely at the Medical Cabin as she heard the conversation between the two individuals. Feng Bailing estimated she had stayed inside the Medical Cabin for about three minutes. Looking at her Seventh Sense again, it had indeed been exhausted completely. Perhaps her continual and cumulative training recently led to a breakthrough in her Seventh Sense, causing the long-absent Medical Cabin to reappear. However, compared to taking things from the emergency kit, entering the Medical Cabin consumed much more of the Seventh Sense, and each stay lasted no more than three minutes. ¡°No good, I still need to find an opportunity to enhance the Seventh Sense.¡± Feng Bailing was distressed, taking out the page. On it was a Martial Arts Training Method given to her by Lady Nan Shiu. Feng Bailing thought to herself and tucked the page away. Around dusk, sitting in the Feng Mansion¡¯s horse carriage were Feng Bailing, Feng Xiangxue, and Feng Ruoyan. ¡°This horse carriage is so cramped. The horse carriage Aunt Nan hired for us in the morning was much more spacious than this, how stingy.¡± Feng Ruoyan disliked the crowding of the three people in one carriage. ¡°If I remember correctly, when you and your father sought refuge with the Princess¡¯ Mansion, you rode in a donkey cart that was less than half the size of this carriage.¡± Feng Bailing lifted her eyelids slightly, paying attention to the surroundings. Since leaving the Yuxiu Academy, she felt like they were being watched. ¡°Feng Bailing, don¡¯t think you¡¯re so great just because you have a Princess mother. My mother has had my fortune told; my fate is invaluable, and I am destined to become a Princess Consort! What¡¯s so great about you, marrying a cripple, destined to either be a widow or die young.¡± Feng Ruoyan, her pretty face pale with anger, pointed at Feng Bailing and cursed. The fate of a Princess Consort, invaluable? Unintended words from the speaker, but listened with intent by the listener. Feng Xiangxue sat aside, her brows furrowing as she heard Feng Ruoyan speak. Feng Ruoyan had recently chosen Dongfang Li¡¯s class. She wasn¡¯t even in the same class but would always find herself, thinking back to the time when she ran into Dongfang Li, and couldn¡¯t help but secretly watch him. This vile woman, actually setting her eyes on the Seventh Prince. Feng Xiangxue was secretly furious. Outside the carriage, the horses suddenly neighed loudly, the carriage jolted, and Feng Bailing and Feng Xiangxue hurried to steady themselves at the window. Caught off guard, Feng Ruoyan leaned forward and hit her nose on the carriage shaft, blood flowing immediately. ¡°Lao Zhou, what¡¯s...¡± Before Feng Xiangxue could scold the coachman, a scream was heard. Chapter 107 - 107 109 The Kidnapper with an Extraordinary ?Chapter 107: Chapter 109: The Kidnapper with an Extraordinary Background (Part 1) Chapter 107: Chapter 109: The Kidnapper with an Extraordinary Background (Part 1) Inside the carriage, the three women were all startled. In the air floated the scent of blood. The man¡¯s slender fingers lifted the carriage curtain. Upon seeing a bland face, there was a hint of playfulness in his eyes. The man ignored Feng Bailing and Feng Ruoyan in the carriage. His sinister gaze fixed on Feng Xiangxue, like a famished beast spotting a succulent meal. ¡°Miss Xiangxue, I have admired you for a long time and would like to invite you to my residence.¡± The man extended his hand; his voice was robust, enchanting in contrast to his appearance. Feng Bailing had not seen the man¡¯s face earlier; now she saw it full-front. The man¡¯s face was wax-yellow and bloodless. Apart from his eyes, his facial features seemed rigid, reminding Feng Bailing of a human skin mask. Surely, this man had changed his appearance. ¡°Who are you? I don¡¯t know you. This is the Princess¡¯ Mansion¡¯s carriage. Don¡¯t mess around; otherwise, the government will not let you go.¡± Feng Xiangxue¡¯s face turned pale with fright; she shrank into the corner, wishing she could merge with the carriage. The man chuckled lightly, a mixture of scorn and indifference. ¡°The government can¡¯t do anything to me. If you don¡¯t want your two sisters to be decapitated, you¡¯d better obediently come down and follow me.¡± He didn¡¯t wish to be abrupt with the beauty. As for the other two people in the carriage... The man had no interest in giving them another glance. He had seen countless women; ever since he could remember, he always had plenty of women around. If not for that stunning song, he wouldn¡¯t even bother playing with someone like Feng Xiangxue. ¡°Sister Xiangxue, this hero wants to invite you as a guest. You should go; we will return home by ourselves.¡± Feng Ruoyan¡¯s nose was still bleeding, but she was frightened and didn¡¯t dare stay any longer in the carriage. She regretted going back with Feng Xiangxue. It was great if the stranger abducted Feng Xiangxue. Her reputation would be ruined if she were taken away, and the Seventh Prince would no longer take her as a concubine. Perhaps then... Feng Ruoyan secretly rejoiced in her heart. ¡°Ruoyan, what nonsense are you talking about? Sister Bailing, please, help me quickly.¡± Feng Xiangxue¡¯s beautiful eyes widened as she desperately sought Feng Bailing¡¯s help. ¡°Hero, we can get off, but you can¡¯t just take my sister away.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s words nearly moved Feng Xiangxue to tears. ¡°I will not go with him.¡± ¡°Do you want to end up like the coachman?¡± The man said impatiently. The carriage still traveled on an official road, with potential passing traffic at any time. ¡°You killed the coachman, and now you are hijacking my sister halfway; it¡¯s clear you intend to take her away without anyone noticing, so how would you let us go back alive?¡± Feng Bailing spoke in a deep voice. The man raised his eyes and glanced at Feng Bailing. ¡°There¡¯s a smart one here.¡± He indeed prepared to kill any witnesses when taking Feng Xiangxue out of Great Chu. ¡°You don¡¯t need to kill us. First, we don¡¯t know your true face; second, Sister Xiangxue has a deep bond with us, she surely won¡¯t obey you if we die.¡± Feng Bailing spoke, her face full of sisterly love. Feng Xiangxue felt a buzz in her head; when had she and Feng Bailing ever been so close? ¡°Let us off at the city gate, and we¡¯ll enter the city. Even if the Princess¡¯ Mansion reports it to the authorities, you would have already taken her far away by then.¡± The carriage fell silent after Feng Bailing finished speaking. ¡°My lord, there are carriages coming from one mile away.¡± The servant sitting in the carriage reminded him. ¡°Keep driving.¡± The man let the curtain fall, seemingly agreeing with Feng Bailing¡¯s words. ¡°Feng Bailing, how can you treat me this way? I know, you must hate me for taking the Seventh Prince away from you.¡± Feng Xiangxue was both hateful and fearful. Feng Ruoyan did not dare speak up. ¡°What goes around comes around, Feng Xiangxue, you truly thought I didn¡¯t know what happened that night four years ago?¡± Feng Xiangxue¡¯s heart quaked. Feng Ruoyan quietly sobbed on the side, adding to the irritability. Feng Bailing closed her eyes, leaning back in the carriage, clutching the half piece of jade given by Dugu Wu. The Emperor¡¯s aura in the jade was not much, but enough to restore part of her seventh sense. Feng Xiangxue bit her lip, her eyes filled with terror. Feng Bailing had long known that these two would target Feng Mansion¡¯s carriage; there was only one road back to the city and no escape. There were two people sitting in front of the carriage; even the servant¡¯s strength was formidable, not to mention the man speaking, whose depth was unfathomable. Even if Feng Zao made a move, it wouldn¡¯t save them. Whether or not to save Feng Xiangxue was not important. What¡¯s crucial was how she would return unharmed. It would be another quarter of an hour before returning to the city. Feng Bailing recalled the Martial Arts Training Method mentioned on the page given by Lady Nan Shiu. ¡°Martial Arts Training Methods are infinite. Since you are a mother, fortunately, you possess a unique constitution with Pure Yang Qi. If this Pure Yang Qi is used properly, it can exhibit strength comparable to a Wuji Expert. Regrettably, your Pure Yang Qi is not sufficient; you can only use it to enhance a particular body part, fists or legs being excellent choices. Catch the enemy off guard and deliver a lethal blow! This method of energy manipulation is called Energy Manipulation Technique...¡± Feng Bailing slowly exhaled. Following Lady Nan Shiu¡¯s Energy Manipulation Technique, she felt the Pure Yang Qi inside her body begin to converge towards her right fist. Another quarter of an hour later, they were only half a mile from the city gate, now visible. ¡°Get off.¡± The man¡¯s voice sounded again. Feng Ruoyan¡¯s face lit up with joy, Feng Bailing slowly opened her eyes. Feng Xiangxue also suddenly raised her head. She bit her lip and abruptly said in a loud voice. ¡°Kill them, and I will go with you!¡± Her eyes showed a malicious intent; if she was taken away by this terrifying man, she would be ruined. If everything was ruined, then let¡¯s ruin everything together! The city gate was within reach. As soon as Feng Xiangxue finished speaking, the sick-looking man scoffed. Women, when ruthless, have nothing to do with men. Inside the carriage, Feng Ruoyan was so frightened that she lost all capacity to think. Feng Bailing didn¡¯t dare to move, seemingly also frightened into a stupor. ¡°Kill.¡± The man disdained to take action himself. The servant leapt up, grabbing Feng Bailing with one hand and Feng Ruoyan with the other, like an eagle swooping on chicks. Chapter 108 - 108 110 The Remarkable Origins of the ?Chapter 108: Chapter 110: The Remarkable Origins of the Kidnapper (Part 2) Chapter 108: Chapter 110: The Remarkable Origins of the Kidnapper (Part 2) ¡°I don¡¯t want to die, Sister Xiangxue, spare me, please.¡± Feng Ruoyan cried and struggled, but the servant¡¯s grip was like shackles, rendering her unable to move. Both women were dragged off the horse carriage. A morbid delight surfaced in Feng Xiangxue¡¯s eyes. Leaving both women beside the horse carriage, a cold gleam flashed in the servant¡¯s hand as a blood-sealing throat-slitting dagger swept toward the throats of the two women. Feng Bailing kicked Feng Ruoyan over, and in the next moment, a bottle of chili water slid out of her sleeve. A pungent and spicy mist sprayed towards the servant¡¯s eyes. Instantly, the servant¡¯s eyes hurt so much that he couldn¡¯t open them, and as he fumbled with tears and snot, the dagger in his hand was snatched away by someone at some point. A slight chill on the neck, and blood spurted out. Feng Ruoyan let out a shriek. Feng Xiangxue was also frightened and stumbled back a few steps, falling onto the horse carriage. The sickly man was taken aback; the servant¡¯s throat had already been slashed. Killed with a single strike. Feng Bailing, agile as a nimble mountain cat, rolled to the side. The dagger in her hand was still warm with blood, and her half-hidden face gained an unusual seductive charm. In the next moment, the man¡¯s figure disappeared from sight. Feng Bailing was startled. A chill approached from behind. ¡°Princess Feng.¡± Feng Zao suddenly appeared. He stood in front of Feng Bailing, only to hear the sound of bones cracking, as both Feng Zao and Feng Bailing were sent tumbling to the ground by a formidable force. Feng Zao was still here? Feng Bailing was surprised. Dugu Wu didn¡¯t withdraw him? This mysterious master and servant duo were very powerful. Feng Zao discovered that someone had hijacked the horse carriage when he was searching for an opportunity to take action but didn¡¯t expect the opponent¡¯s strength to be much stronger than he thought. Blood trickled down the corner of Feng Zao¡¯s mouth. This was the first time Feng Bailing had seen Feng Zao in person. He looked exactly like Feng Wan but appeared even more composed than Feng Wan did. ¡°Run.¡± Feng Zao wiped the blood from his mouth. The Gang Qi inside him exploded instantly. He pushed Feng Bailing forward, and in the next moment, the Wuji Earth Seal on his forehead lit up, and his movements became several times faster. ¡°A Wuji Expert?¡± The sickly man was somewhat surprised. The richly ornamented Princess¡¯ Mansion actually had a Wuji Expert as a bodyguard. His eyes quickly scanned the surroundings; as soon as Feng Zao appeared, Feng Ruoyan and Feng Xiangxue took the opportunity to run towards the city gate. The man¡¯s footsteps flashed, and he stepped back half a step, dodging Feng Zao¡¯s palm. His right thumb and index finger went to his lips, and he whistled sharply. In the air, there was a sound of tearing wind. Feng Bailing, concerned for Feng Zao, had taken only a few steps when she felt something was amiss behind her. Turning her head, she saw a shadow leaping towards her. A stench assaulted her face as a starving wolf, as big as a calf and covered with steel-needle-like black fur, pounced out. ¡°The Greedy Wolf King!¡± As the wolf opened its bloody mouth aiming to bite Feng Bailing¡¯s throat in a flash, Feng Zao¡¯s face turned ashen. A terrifying name flashed through his mind. ¡°Princess Feng, run!¡± Feng Zao yelled hoarsely, his eyes reddening with desperation. He wanted to leap forward but it was too late. Princess Feng? The sickly man raised his eyebrows and looked towards the woman wearing a veil. Could she be... Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan, upon seeing the giant wolf, had already collapsed to the ground. A wolf¡¯s top speed is around 70 kilometers per hour, while a human¡¯s speed is no more than 40 kilometers per hour. Outrunning a wolf? Impossible. Feng Bailing took a deep breath and her invisible seventh sense surged like a tide towards the wild giant wolf. The beastly stench assaulted their senses. The next moment, a hint of panic flashed in the eyes of the terrifying giant wolf as it was enveloped by an unknown power. The Greedy Wolf vanished! Both the sickly man and Feng Zao were stunned. Feng Bailing¡¯s knees gave way and with a thud, she knelt down. Her face full of respect, she knelt on the ground and joyfully said to the air, ¡°Master! Your old self has come!¡± The sickly man¡¯s face dramatically changed. Could it be that there is an even more powerful master behind that woman? Legend has it that after one¡¯s martial arts cultivation breaks through the Golden Seal, they can tear through the sky and possess supernatural powers to turn the day into night, but that is just a legend. The Greedy Wolf is the king amongst wolves, already possessing a cultivation near the Wuji Water Seal level of martial artists, yet the opponent, without even showing their face, took care of the Greedy Wolf. ¡°Aren¡¯t you scared off yet?!¡± Feng Bailing screamed inwardly. ¡°Till we meet again.¡± The sickly man hooked his lips mischievously, his gaze drifting over Feng Xiangxue, and after lingering for a moment on Feng Bailing, he vanished in a flash. Feng Bailing dusted off her knees and hurriedly went to help Feng Zao up. ¡°Your breastbone is broken; it needs immediate treatment.¡± She examined Feng Zao¡¯s injuries, her expression solemn. The strength of that man was probably no less than Dugu Wu. If it hadn¡¯t been for a bluff, they all would¡¯ve died here today. ¡°Princess Feng, thank you. I am not in serious trouble, Feng Wan and I are psychically linked, and he will soon come to take me to Lu Yin. You go back first.¡± A trace of emotion flickered in Feng Zao¡¯s eyes, and he couldn¡¯t help but reassess Feng Bailing. If it were not for her, facing that person would have meant certain death. Dugu Xiaojin and Feng Xiaoli in the Imperial Academy were unaware of the slaughter that had occurred en route. Across the lake from Yuxiu Academy was the Imperial Academy, where, as usual, Dugu Xiaojin walked to his seat. ¡°Brother Xiaojin, yesterday¡¯s homework?¡± Feng Xiaoli poked Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s back with the end of her calligraphy brush. ¡°Dachun, you¡¯re making Dugu Xiaojin do your homework again. Everyone here saw it and heard it; when the teacher asks later, you all must testify for me.¡± Dongfang Jin finally caught an opportunity. Ever since Dugu Xiaojin formed a Wuji Seal, Dongfang Jin disliked him even more. The Queen Mother became stricter with him, often having him study by lamp into the night and making him consume various tonics, saying that since Dugu Xiaojin had formed a Wuji Seal, he must form a Wenhua Seal. And Grandpa, who used to be endlessly praising whenever he saw him, but lately, his demeanor had been cold and indifferent. The seeds of jealousy and resentment began to take root and wildly grow in Dongfang Jin¡¯s young heart. Dugu Xiaojin furrowed his brow, but when it involved Feng Xiaoli, he couldn¡¯t be careless. Feng Xiaoli, so young and well-behaved, would certainly be in pain if beaten with the teacher¡¯s ruler. ¡°Dongfang Jin, you¡¯re the most annoying, always bullying people. The teacher is going to spank you with his ruler again.¡± Feng Xiaoli made a face at Dongfang Jin and took out a piece of paper, which indeed had a neatly written row of characters on it. Her Majesty said, oh, Xiaoli could only replace Dachun here for a month, but if she learned to write well, she would be allowed to see Brother Xiaojin in the future. For this goal, Feng Xiaoli had even eaten one less bowl of food each meal just to do her homework. ¡°Dachun, shut up.¡± Dongfang Jin, red-faced with anger, raised his hand, about to hit Feng Xiaoli. Chapter 109 - 109 111 The Clever Young Siblings ?Chapter 109: Chapter 111: The Clever Young Siblings Chapter 109: Chapter 111: The Clever Young Siblings Dugu Xiaojin grabbed Dongfang Jin¡¯s hand firmly. Both of them had learned martial arts, but usually, it was Dongfang Jin who bullied Dugu Xiaojin, and he wouldn¡¯t even let out a fart, letting Dongfang Jin bully him as he pleased. But today... Dongfang Jin felt his hand was locked as tightly as if by iron chains, completely unable to move. This bastard, after condensing the Wuji Seal, he became so strong? Dongfang Jin was filled with envy and hatred, staring at the space between Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyebrows. Although the Wuji Seal was usually invisible, Dongfang Jin couldn¡¯t help but recall the terrifying appearance of Dugu Xiaojin that day. A venomous glint flashed through his eyes. ¡°Dugu Xiaojin, are you really trying to kill me? Just like how you hurt those guards that time, and killed that cat?¡± As soon as these words came out, the child students around them froze in shock; though they were young, they understood the meaning of death. Feng Xiaoli¡¯s big eyes were also wide open in shock. Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s expression became rigid. ¡°What, did I hit the nail on the head? He¡¯s a monster; his eyes are like those of a beast, they change to two colors when he¡¯s angry.¡± Dongfang Jin spoke loudly, looking proud. He wanted to see Dugu Xiaojin collapse in a fit of madness. He wasn¡¯t worried about his own safety, for when he went out, he was protected by Hidden Guards. As soon as Dugu Xiaojin dared to attack him, the Hidden Guards would intervene, and Dugu Xiaojin would be dead for sure! Monster! The child students around them were scared and stepped aside, looking at Dugu Xiaojin with fear in their eyes. Dongfang Jin was proud and waiting for Dugu Xiaojin to have an outburst. ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense; having two different colored eyes is beautiful.¡± Dugu Xiaojin clenched his fists, but the words that Feng Xiaoli blurted out next made him relax his grip. ¡°Don¡¯t be friends with him. None of his family are good people. His father is a cripple, his stepmother is a slut, who got divorced by my seventh uncle, and he¡¯s an evil spirit.¡± Dongfang Jin shouted loudly. Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s face changed suddenly; a rage rose from the depths of his eyes, and a flash of murderous intent passed quickly. ¡°Xiaojin, if you ever encounter someone bullying you and feel very angry, remember what I told you, take your medicine, and control your emotions.¡± Dugu Xiaojin recalled the words Feng Bailing had drummed into him. ¡°Dongfang Jin, what nonsense are you spouting! Who taught you to say such nonsense!¡± Suddenly, the sound of footsteps was heard, and Feng Xiaoli had slipped away at some point and called over Mr. Guo, who had just caught Dongfang Jin¡¯s words. He could hardly believe that this was the student he had always been so proud of. Looking back at Dugu Xiaojin, his face was deathly pale. The child was too sensible. Having already condensed the Wuji Seal, if he wanted to make a move, Dongfang Jin would have no chance of defeating him. At such a young age, he already knew so much about restraint. He would surely become someone great in the future. Mr. Guo felt both moved and sad. But Dongfang Jin was fearless, still making a fuss. ¡°He is an evil spirit...¡± Mr. Guo was so angry that he struck Dongfang Jin¡¯s behind with a ruler. ¡°The Emperor entrusted you to me, and I haven¡¯t taught you well. That¡¯s my fault.¡± But Dongfang Jin was far from willing to submit. ¡°You old dog, I call you ¡®teacher¡¯ to give you face. I¡¯m the Imperial Grandson; it doesn¡¯t matter if I curse at him¡ªwhat if I killed him?¡± He reached out to grab the ruler, but Mr. Guo was so enraged that he snapped the ruler with a snap. ¡°I can¡¯t teach a student like you.¡± Mr. Guo left in a fury after saying this. Dongfang Jin was stunned; he knew fear now, realizing if Mr. Guo reported this to Grandpa, his mother would kill him. He was scared out of his wits and hurried after Mr. Guo. On the side, Dugu Xiaojin took out a porcelain bottle, swallowed a pill, and suppressed his nearly violent emotions. The other child students watched Dugu Xiaojin with complex feelings. He had offended the Imperial Grandson and was bound for great trouble. He would surely be expelled from the Imperial Academy. ¡°Brother Xiaojin, don¡¯t be sad. He¡¯s just jealous of you, jealous you¡¯re more handsome, more talented, and more likeable than him!¡± Feng Xiaoli was blowing rainbow farts. Dugu Xiaojin smiled. He was handsome, and with that smile, stars twinkled in Feng Xiaoli¡¯s eyes. Dugu Xiaojin hesitated for a moment, then gently pinched Xiao Li¡¯s chubby cheek. He wasn¡¯t sad. This time, Dongfang Jin was in big trouble. This was the last time; if Dongfang Jin dared to say the slightest thing against Feng Bailing or his father again... A coldness flashed in Dugu Xiaojin¡¯s eyes. Today, seeing Mr. Guo, Xiaojin also suddenly realized that sometimes, to solve a problem, one need not take action oneself. Feng Wan arrived at the Ministry of Revenue just when Dugu Wu was extremely busy, and news reached him his hand faltered, and ink dropped onto the ledger. He grabbed his cane and was about to go outside, speaking involuntarily. ¡°How is she?¡± Yet he could not utter the words. Remembering what Feng Bailing had done, he swallowed his words. After returning from the Imperial Palace that day, the Princess Consort Shun learned that Princess Mingxia became mute because Feng Bailing had pushed her into the lake. She made a huge fuss, insisting that Dugu Wu break off the marriage. Combined with the issues in the Ministry of Revenue¡¯s ledgers, Dugu Wu was so aggravated that he simply moved his work to the Ministry of Revenue. ¡°Sir, are you worried about Princess Feng?¡± Seeing Dugu Wu hesitate, Feng Wan kindly asked. ¡°Who¡¯s worried about her?¡± Dugu Wu glared at him. Clearly, someone¡¯s expression had changed, Feng Wan thought in criticism. ¡°If you¡¯re really worried, why not visit the Princess¡¯ Mansion? You haven¡¯t seen Xiao Li for several days, and Xiao Li misses you.¡± ¡°Busybody,¡± Dugu Wu muttered and forced himself to sit back down. Does only Xiao Li miss him? That woman, does she not have any sense of remorse at all? Chapter 110 - 110 112 The Stubborn but Tender-hearted Ninth ?Chapter 110: Chapter 112: The Stubborn but Tender-hearted Ninth Prince Chapter 110: Chapter 112: The Stubborn but Tender-hearted Ninth Prince Feng Wan muttered to himself, insisting stubbornly, clearly yearning to take a look. The standoff with Princess Feng had dragged on for days now, and his temper worsened by the day. Officials from the Ministry of Revenue had already been sent away by him numerous times. With an already short-handed team for the audit, how could he alone examine so many account books and contend with the Old Grand Preceptor? ¡°She has not gained Mingxia¡¯s consent; without it, I will not forgive her.¡± Dugu Wu said in a muffled voice. Feng Wan had a sudden realization! ¡°Feng Zao¡¯s injuries are now stabilized. It was Xiao Junci who he encountered, and it was Princess Feng¡¯s secretly protective master who helped him escape this calamity. My Lord, should we send more people to the Princess¡¯ Mansion?¡± Feng Wan expressed his concern. Regent King of Beiqi Xiao Junci, close in age to Dugu Wu, was also one of his most formidable competitors. His Greedy Wolf Army was a particularly thorny existence among all royal armies. Unlike other troops, the Greedy Wolf Army only had a thousand soldiers, but this mere thousand were enough to tear through the throats of the most elite forces. Because the Greedy Wolf King Army¡¯s mounts were no ordinary horses but wolves. Dugu Wu¡¯s hand unwittingly rested on his knee. He had been contending with Xiao Junci for over a decade; if not for the affliction in his legs, he would not fear a battle with Xiao Junci. Dugu Wu¡¯s gaze darkened. ¡°Xiao Junci has always loved to oppose you, my Lord. Could he be aware of Princess Zhifeng¡¯s marriage to you and has come specifically to snatch the bride?¡± Feng Wan abruptly slapped his head. Dugu Wu¡¯s gaze darkened, and a surge of murderous intent erupted around him. Before his legs healed, no one could take Feng Bailing away, Xiao Junci included. ¡°With that venerable expert there, Xiao Junci wouldn¡¯t dare.¡± Xiao Junci¡¯s flight must have been due to Feng Bailing¡¯s master¡¯s arrival. That esteemed individual, even Xiao Junci is not his match? ¡°Additionally, the academy principal¡¯s sister, Lady Nan Feng, has become the second room concubine of Feng Zhanlian.¡± Dugu Wu frowned. The academy principal¡¯s sister was utterly unlike him in character. She engaged in murder and pillage, acted as an accomplice to villains, wandered among various dynasties, and lived by peddling information. ¡°She couldn¡¯t possibly be genuinely fond of Feng Zhanlian. What really interests her must be the mother and two children of Dongfang Lianhua. When the Beiqi Ancestor passed away, he left an oral decree that anyone of his bloodline, regardless of gender, who could pull out the Beiqi King¡¯s Sword could inherit the Beiqi throne. Now, although the current old Emperor of Beiqi holds the title, he is unable to pull the sword from its place, and his sons are all incompetent. Whereas Xiao Junci, serving as the Regent King, has drawn the King Sword, it¡¯s a pity, he isn¡¯t from the Beiqi Royal Family.¡± The family of Dongfang Lianhua, however, were descendants of the Beiqi Royal Family, though they only had a quarter or even less of the Beiqi Ancestor¡¯s blood. With no one left in the Beiqi Royal Family, Dongfang Lianhua and her children were the last hope. As long as they were eliminated, Xiao Junci, the only one capable of drawing the Beiqi King¡¯s Sword, would naturally become the heir to the throne. ¡°Keep a close watch on the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Report to me immediately if Lady Nan Feng makes any unusual moves.¡± Dugu Wu ordered in a deep voice. At night, in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Feng Bailing tucked the corner of the blanket for Feng Xiaoli, with the events of the day vividly before her eyes. Feng Bailing¡¯s seventh sense stirred. ¡°I am Feng Wan; the Lord has sent me to protect you.¡± Feng Wan was not as skilled at concealing his presence as Feng Zao, so he simply stood beneath the window. To Feng Wan, as a disciple of the mystical expert, Feng Bailing¡¯s standing had also risen significantly. ¡°Princess Feng should be cautious recently. Your assailant today was Xiao Junci of Beiqi; he is extremely unscrupulous. Try to avoid going out these days, except for your visits to Yuxiu Academy. Moreover, Princess Mingxia will go to Yuxiu Academy for her zither lessons early tomorrow. She¡¯s soft-hearted, and not a bad person.¡± Seeing that the night had grown deep, Feng Wan did not linger and vanished with a flash. Is Feng Wan helping her? Or was it Dugu Wu¡¯s instruction? Feng Bailing came back to her senses. She lifted the corners of her mouth slightly. Dugu Wu, this guy, sometimes could be quite sympathetic. Thinking of Xiao Junci, Feng Bailing searched through her memories, finding no information about this person. In that life, the envoy of Beiqi hadn¡¯t arrived yet when the Princess¡¯ Mansion fell into ruin. Feng Bailing thought for a moment and decided to check on that wolf in the Medical Cabin. With a stir of her seventh sense, the moment she entered the Medical Cabin, the wolf eyes emitting a dim green glow in the air stared at her. The sound of the wind whooshed. The ferocious Greedy Wolf King pounced towards her, its teeth gleaming with a chilling white light, twice as fast as during the day. Up close, the beast was even more terrifying than in daylight. Its body was lean without an ounce of excess fat, like a strong young bull, its fur black and shiny, filled with wild power. Trapped for half a day without a way out, hungry and furious, the Greedy Wolf King saw the woman before its eyes as its food. Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes darkened as the Pure Yang Qi in her surged, focusing on her right hand. As the Greedy Wolf King pounced, under the effect of the seventh sense, its body deviated from its intended target, veering off by half an inch. Facing Feng Bailing¡¯s fist, the Greedy Wolf King was disdainful. It had followed Xiao Junci through blood-soaked battlefields for ten years, invincible. Aside from Dugu Wu, it had hardly ever shunned anyone. Feng Bailing¡¯s fist crashed into the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s waist. Wolves are famously tough in the head but weak in the waist. The Greedy Wolf King was knocked down by the blow. The crimson in its eyes intensified, wishing it could devour Feng Bailing whole. It staggered to its feet and launched a second attack. But the woman in front of it suddenly vanished. ¡°This punch really isn¡¯t weak; it actually knocked the Wolf King down.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s face was full of joy. She waved her fist, then after resting for a moment until her Pure Yang Qi had somewhat recovered, Feng Bailing went back into the Medical Cabin. The Greedy Wolf King hesitated not a bit and pounced once more. This time, it would not fail again. But its body swerved again, and in the next moment, the woman¡¯s fist struck its waist once more. The scarlet in the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s eyes had cleared completely, each attack more hesitant than the last. That familiar aura, it realized, she had an essence akin to Dugu Wu. One night, going back and forth five or six times, Feng Bailing had exhausted all her Pure Yang Qi with the first punch. By the second time, she only used seventy percent, by the third time, fifty percent, by the fourth... Finally, as the rooster crowed, Feng Bailing dragged her weary body to bed. Inside the Medical Cabin, the Greedy Wolf King, who had devoured countless enemies, lay prone on its limbs. Its waist had been so hammered by Feng Bailing that it couldn¡¯t straighten up. Too terrifying. The beast¡¯s nature of the Greedy Wolf King had been completely destroyed by this formidable opponent. Every time, she appeared suddenly and vanished mysteriously. Every time, she was uncatchable. Every time, she threw a punch and disappeared. Besides getting punched, it had no power to fight back. This was an existence much more terrifying than its master, than Dugu Wu! Around dawn, Feng Bailing was full of vitality and entered the Medical Cabin once again. Chapter 111 - 111 113 Ex-Fiancé Fell in Love with Her at ?Chapter 111: Chapter 113: Ex-Fiance?, Fell in Love with Her at First Sight? Chapter 111: Chapter 113: Ex-Fiance?, Fell in Love with Her at First Sight? Seeing Feng Bailing, this unlucky girl, the Greedy Wolf King was so frightened that he didn¡¯t dare to move. ¡°I hope you¡¯re not crippled, that won¡¯t do at all, I was planning to use you to practice my Pure Yang Fist.¡± This was the name Feng Bailing gave to her unique style of fist technique. After practicing all night, she was delighted to find that practicing the fist could enhance the Pure Yang Qi in her body, which was much more effective than practicing martial arts on ordinary days. She had only been able to throw a single punch each time, but now the Pure Yang Qi in her body was enough for three punches. Feng Bailing wondered, just as she was about to check the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s injuries, the wolf prostrated on the ground in fear, its tail that had been hanging limp suddenly started wagging vigorously. Feng Bailing was stunned. Was this guy trying to curry favor? So ferocious-looking, yet actually just a softie when beaten. ¡°Fine, since you haven¡¯t hurt anyone, I¡¯ll let you off.¡± Feng Bailing glanced at the Greedy Wolf King and was then reminded of Dugu Xiaojin. Compared to the little white flash owned by Dugu Xiaojin, the Greedy Wolf King seemed like a real wolf. If she gave it to Dugu Xiaojin, Xiaojin would probably be very happy. However, this fellow was completely wild and seemed quite clever, understanding when to bully and when to be afraid. She would have to tame it for a few more days before considering whether to give it to Dugu Xiaojin. Feng Bailing thought it over and patted the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s head. ¡°From now on, you follow me. I¡¯ll take you to see your new home.¡± As soon as the seventh sense acted, the Greedy Wolf King and Feng Bailing were already standing in the east wing. The Greedy Wolf King had regained its freedom, but it didn¡¯t dare to run around. It was very smart, aware that the woman before it was not to be messed with, as she could easily lock it back up in that cold ¡°cage¡±. These past few days, Feng Xiaoli had been sleeping with Dongfang Lianhua, and as Feng Bailing left the east wing, Chun Liu and Mrs. Su were moving house with some of the Princess¡¯ Mansion¡¯s guards and servants. The sight of the Greedy Wolf King made Mrs. Su and Chun Liu turn pale with fear. ¡°A wolf.¡± During times of famine, Mrs. Su had seen wolves eat people, but the one behind the Princess was much bigger than any wolf she had ever seen. ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, it¡¯s just a big dog. Don¡¯t believe me? Watch it wag its tail.¡± Feng Bailing patted the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s head, and although it was very annoyed, that didn¡¯t stop it from wagging its tail. With a thud, someone fell from the roof. The Greedy Wolf King arched its back and let out a low growl, its wolf claws ready to pounce on the person. ¡°Come back, friendly.¡± Feng Bailing stopped the Greedy Wolf King just in time. Chun Liu was both happy and shy to see Feng Wan. ¡°I... it...¡± Feng Wan was stunned; the War King¡¯s Martial Beast, the Greedy Wolf King, was actually following Princess Feng, wagging its tail all the way! ¡°From now on, it will live at the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± Feng Bailing stroked the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s head, and it let her groom its fur. It took a long time for Feng Wan to recover. He suddenly slapped his forehead. ¡°It must be that senior¡ªhe not only understands medical skills, is a martial arts expert, but also has the ability to control beasts. Xiao Junci and his Greedy Wolf King Army have met their nemesis this time!¡± The group walked towards the Princess¡¯ Mansion. As they reached the mansion gate, Mrs. Su whispered. ¡°Princess, early this morning, the Prince Consort and Aunt Xue hired a horse carriage and left.¡± ¡°From now on, you don¡¯t have to call him Prince Consort; he has no relation to me, my mother, or the Princess¡¯ Mansion any longer.¡± Feng Bailing spoke in a deep voice, and Chun Liu along with Mrs. Su both responded affirmatively. Early in the morning, Feng Bailing had already left the house. She wasn¡¯t heading to Yuxiu Academy, but to seek out Princess Mingxia. The dean had promised her that she only needed to attend a few classes each month and pass the end-of-month assessment. Feng Bailing received news from Feng Wan and knew that Princess Mingxia would be going to Yuxiu Academy early in the morning. It seemed that Princess Mingxia was deliberately avoiding her; they weren¡¯t in the same class, nor had the same schedule, so chances for them to meet were slim. To appease Dugu Wu, it was essential to address Princess Mingxia¡¯s issue. Feng Bailing didn¡¯t take a horse carriage; instead, she found a mule cart to take her to the inevitable path leading to Yuxiu Academy outside the city. After waiting for half an hour, a horse carriage in front halted. The person descending from the carriage was none other than Princess Mingxia. Upon spotting Princess Mingxia, Feng Bailing thought for a moment, then took off the silk scarf from her face. Princess Mingxia had prejudices against her and was very afraid of her; if she showed up, the other party wouldn¡¯t speak to her. It might be better to pretend to be a passerby, strike up a conversation with her, and perhaps glean some information. Princess Mingxia stepped out of the horse carriage. There was still some distance from Yuxiu Academy, and she appeared coy and shy, gesturing for the Coachman to go back first. She checked the time, and at this hour, the Seventh Prince should be on his way to Yuxiu Academy. After waiting for a moment, she saw a fast horse galloping towards them, ridden by Dongfang Li. Someone suddenly darted out in front, startling him. He pulled the horse to a stop, ready to curse aloud¡ªwho dared to block his way? Upon closer inspection, it was Princess Mingxia of the Shunqing Prince Manor. He and Princess Mingxia were cousins; he had no choice but to dismount and ask, ¡°Mingxia, what are you doing here?¡± Princess Mingxia was Dugu Wu¡¯s sister; therefore, Dongfang Li¡¯s impression of her was average, especially since she was mute. Princess Mingxia¡¯s face flushed slightly, and she began gesturing with her hands. Dongfang Li said impatiently, ¡°I don¡¯t understand. If there¡¯s nothing wrong, just move aside; I¡¯m in a hurry to get to Yuxiu Academy.¡± As he was about to mount his horse, disappointment flashed in Princess Mingxia¡¯s eyes. She had admired Dongfang Li since she was young, yet Dongfang Li had never paid any attention to her. ¡°She wants to tell you that this is a main road with plenty of carriages and horses; ride more slowly.¡± A bright light flashed before Dongfang Li¡¯s eyes as a young woman emerged from the woods. The woman had a graceful figure, and her looks were as if she had stepped right out of a painting, pure and divine, yet carrying a trace of enchantment. Dongfang Li had seen many beauties in the Imperial Palace, but never such a character. ¡°Miss, who might you be?¡± Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t be bothered with him, and approached Princess Mingxia to start communicating with her via hand signs. Princess Mingxia never expected anyone to understand her gestures. Ever since she became mute, apart from the servants and the Queen Mother at the Prince Manor, even her former close friends didn¡¯t interact much with her anymore, finding her embarrassing. Being able to communicate normally made Princess Mingxia feel a sense of closeness to Feng Bailing. ¡°May I inquire the name of this young lady? Don¡¯t listen to her nonsense¡ªthere are very few carriages and horses on this road. Aren¡¯t you also a student of Yuxiu Academy? I am a teacher there; why don¡¯t we go to the Academy together?¡± This guy couldn¡¯t even recognize her voice? Feng Bailing sneered in her heart, ignoring Dongfang Li. Dongfang Li brushed off with a snub, somewhat displeased. He took hold of his horse; in order to catch her attention, he performed a dashing mount. Well, if she was a student at Yuxiu Academy, he was sure he could pursue her. He would go first to Yuxiu Academy since the dean was a stickler for rules. If he arrived late, the dean might even report him to his Father Emperor. ¡°Miss, my name is Dongfang Li. I am the Seventh Prince of Great Chu. If you encounter any trouble in the future, you can come to Yuxiu Academy to find me.¡± With a flick of his whip, he sped off like an arrow shot from a bow. Right at that moment, a horse carriage happened to pass by on the main road. Chapter 112 - 112 114 The Truth Behind the Drowning Incident ?Chapter 112: Chapter 114: The Truth Behind the Drowning Incident Back Then Chapter 112: Chapter 114: The Truth Behind the Drowning Incident Back Then The horse carriage and Dongfang Li¡¯s horse nearly collided, as Dongfang Li reined in his horse. A cry of alarm came from the carriage. ¡°Not good, Lady is about to give birth.¡± It turned out that there was a pregnant woman on the carriage, and by coincidence, she was almost due. Due to special circumstances, she needed to rush to Chu City to find a renowned doctor to deliver her baby, but unexpectedly encountered Dongfang Li¡¯s horse early in the morning on the main road. Just now, the pregnant woman in the carriage got a fright and was actually going into premature labor. Dongfang Li¡¯s expression wasn¡¯t good. ¡°Such bad luck, encountering such an unfortunate event this early in the morning. Why are you standing around? Hurry and send her to the city.¡± From the carriage, an old lady poked her head out. The old lady was well-dressed, not looking like someone from an ordinary household. Her face was full of anxiety. ¡°From the looks of it, I¡¯m afraid she won¡¯t make it to the city. Could you kind-hearted people come up and help?¡± The voice of the woman in labor from inside the carriage sounded very pained. Princess Mingxia and Feng Bailing had not expected to encounter such a situation, especially Princess Mingxia, who was still a maiden; where had she ever seen childbirth? But now, there were no other people around. It was just her and Feng Bailing, and Feng Bailing pulled her onto the carriage. They found the carriage quite spacious, but when they saw the pregnant woman, both were stunned. The pregnant woman weighed no less than two hundred pounds, and she looked to be over thirty years old as well. Even in modern times, she would be absolutely considered a high-risk pregnant woman. Feng Bailing furrowed her eyebrows. ¡°Your Lady is about to give birth, and you didn¡¯t prepare a midwife in advance?¡± The old lady said with a mournful face. ¡°I am the midwife, but Lady¡¯s pregnancy has been unfavorable, and I dare not proceed.¡± Feng Bailing took a deep breath and looked at the pregnant woman again. ¡°Stop the carriage to the side, midwife bring people to boil hot water.¡± After the amniotic fluid broke, the pregnant woman¡¯s contractions became even more severe. She was in unbearable pain, and her breathing became more and more labored. ¡°We need to use anesthetic powder to ease her pain, it¡¯s just the specifics of where to apply it...¡± Feng Bailing reached out and touched the pregnant woman¡¯s lower back. The pregnant woman¡¯s excessive body fat meant that Feng Bailing had to use her seventh sense to finally locate the gaps between the first, second, and third vertebral spines. She inserted three needles that were soaked in anesthetics. The anesthetic worked faster than the anesthetic powder, and after being anesthetized, the pregnant woman¡¯s consciousness grew blurry. ¡°You, don¡¯t just stand there, do you know how to perform a cesarean section?¡± The carriage was stifling hot. Feng Bailing signaled Princess Mingxia to wipe her sweat while calling Dongfang Li for help. She had to use her seventh sense to observe the changes in the woman¡¯s body. Because the woman in labor was overweight, her own knife did not have enough strength. Dongfang Li was a man, stronger, so it was safer for him to take lead with the incision. ¡°You want me to help with her delivery?¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s face turned green¡ªhe, the Seventh Prince! The next moment, Feng Bailing grabbed Dongfang Li by the collar. ¡°If I tell you to move, you move. Are you even a man? She has diabetes and high blood pressure, we must deliver the baby as soon as possible. The longer we delay, the more dangerous it becomes. You caused this, if you don¡¯t operate, she¡¯ll die along with the child. Can you afford that?¡± Dongfang Li had never been scolded like this in his life. Feng Bailing pushed him towards the pregnant woman and handed him a sterilized surgical knife. ¡°I tell you where to cut, you cut there. Keep the knife steady. Did you not eat, put some strength into it!¡± Feng Bailing scolded Dongfang Li while directing his incisions. Princess Mingxia, on the side, was initially terrified, but later on, admiration shone in her eyes. This girl, she, was so cool. The typically arrogant Dongfang Li in front of her was just like an obedient grandson. She said one thing, he followed suit. Time flew by. Then a loud cry was heard. ¡°It¡¯s born! It¡¯s a boy!¡± Dongfang Li was covered in sweat. Seeing the newborn life, Feng Bailing also revealed a slight smile. That smile dazzled Dongfang Li for a moment. So beautiful. His heart raced wildly. He must marry her as his consort! But before he could ask for Feng Bailing¡¯s name, his vision turned black, and he lost consciousness. Taking advantage of his unawareness, Feng Bailing gave him an anesthetic needle, enough to put him to sleep for a whole day. Feng Bailing pulled Princess Mingxia down from the carriage and dumped Dongfang Li to one side; his Hidden Guards would soon pick him up. The Coachman and midwife saw their Lady deliver successfully and were overjoyed. The midwife hurried forward to kowtow to Feng Bailing. ¡°Miss, thank you for saving our Lady. May I ask for your esteemed name? Another day I would like to have our Lord and Lady come to thank you in person.¡± Feng Bailing thought for a moment and replied. ¡°I am a doctor from Xinglin Spring in the city; there¡¯s no need for thanks, saving lives is precisely what we physicians should do. If your Lady feels unwell again, you can find Lu Ying from Xinglin Spring.¡± After Feng Bailing finished, she saw Princess Mingxia looking at her with eager eyes. She could tell that Feng Bailing¡¯s medical skills were extremely sophisticated; if this pregnant woman had been taken to the city, it¡¯s likely that no doctor would dare to treat her. She mustered her courage and made signs with her hands at Feng Bailing. ¡°Do you want me to treat you?¡± Feng Bailing feigned surprise. Princess Mingxia nodded, indicating to Feng Bailing that she wasn¡¯t born mute, but became mute after an incident. Doctors in Great Chu hadn¡¯t been able to treat her; she wanted to be able to speak, therefore she was asking Feng Bailing to save her. ¡°Well, you should say how you became mute?¡± Feng Bailing asked in return. Princess Mingxia hesitated, then hesitantly indicated that she became mute after drowning and damaging her throat. Chapter 113 - 113 115 Reconciliation ?Chapter 113: Chapter 115 Reconciliation Chapter 113: Chapter 115 Reconciliation ¡°Fallen into the water by yourself?¡± Feng Bailing was somewhat surprised. Princess Mingxia nodded. ¡°How could you just fall into the water like that? Are you lying to me? I don¡¯t like treating deceivers.¡± After speaking, Feng Bailing turned to leave, but Princess Mingxia quickly grabbed her, hesitated for a moment, then gestured. ¡°Listen,¡± Princess Mingxia finished, and Feng Bailing pondered for a moment. ¡°Here¡¯s what we¡¯ll do, you write down everything you just told me. If what you said is all true, and you framed that student named Feng Bailing, causing her to drop out and burdening her with undeserved accusations, you should apologize to her and clear her name.¡± Princess Mingxia remained silent. This matter had weighed on her heart for a long time, and for this reason, she had been avoiding Feng Bailing. She had also heard that because of her actions, the Queen Mother had been harassing her older brother daily, pressing him to cancel the engagement. Her brother was getting older and still hadn¡¯t married a Princess Consort, now with a disabled leg, and taking care of Xiaojin... For this matter, he even moved to the Ministry of Revenue, reluctant to return to Shunqing Prince Manor, filling her with guilt. After considering for a while, Princess Mingxia finally nodded. Feng Bailing went to the horse carriage to get writing materials, handed them to Princess Mingxia, asking her to write down the whole incident clearly. After Princess Mingxia finished writing, she personally signed and stamped it, and Feng Bailing collected the paper. ¡°I¡¯m not in a condition to treat you today. Come to Xinglin Spring in a few days. Also, if the Seventh Prince asks about me, keep it a secret. I don¡¯t want to have any contact with the Royal Family.¡± After parting ways, Feng Bailing returned home. As soon as she reached the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she saw Feng Xiaoli standing at the entrance, on her tiptoes, big eyes blinking, staring down the street like a stone statue waiting for its father. When Feng Xiaoli saw Feng Bailing return, she was both happy and disappointed, pouting her little mouth. ¡°Her Majesty, Daddy hasn¡¯t visited Xiaoli for several days now, does he not like Xiaoli anymore?¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s heart ached¡ªFeng Xiaoli really liked Dugu Wu, that hateful man; it was one thing for him to be mad at her, but to not visit Feng Xiaoli? That¡¯s too much, the more Feng Bailing thought about it, the angrier she became, yet seeing her daughter¡¯s pitiful appearance, her heart softened again. She stroked Xiaoli¡¯s head. ¡°Why would Daddy not like you? He¡¯s just been very busy with official duties lately. If you really miss him, let¡¯s go see him.¡± Xiaoli¡¯s eyes lit up upon hearing this. ¡°Her Majesty, are you chasing after Daddy?¡± Feng Bailing was stunned. What? Xiaoli said earnestly, ¡°A woman chasing a man is only separated by a veil. You should step up, Her Majesty.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s forehead flashed with several huge question marks. What exactly is the Imperial Academy teaching this little one? Helpless, she could only take Feng Xiaoli to the Ministry of Revenue. By then, it was dusk. As Feng Bailing and her daughter reached the entrance of the Ministry of Revenue, they saw a familiar horse carriage stopped outside, and Feng Bailing frowned. They saw a woman standing outside the government office, with a government officer looking uneasy. ¡°Crown Princess Consort, the Prince is busy with official duties and will not meet with anyone.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s expression wasn¡¯t good. She heard that her grandfather and Dugu Wu had been tasked by Emperor Yongye with the important duty of auditing the Ministry of Revenue¡¯s accounts. The two were competing fiercely; Grandmaster Nalan had gathered his students and Ministry officials, working day and night to audit the accounts. Dugu Wu was doing the same, but being a military general who knew few civil servants, and with his irritable mood these days, several of his officials had been scolded away. As one can imagine, his auditing was extremely challenging. Nalan Yan¡¯er had come intending to help, but Dugu Wu didn¡¯t even want to see her. Nalan Yan¡¯er was disheartened. Feng Bailing pursed her lips¡ªthis woman really took the initiative. If she had known better, she shouldn¡¯t have abandoned Dugu Wu for power back then. She and Feng Xiaoli approached. Upon seeing them, Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s lips curled. ¡°Princess Feng, Prince Wu is working and cannot see visitors.¡± ¡°We are not visitors,¡± boldly said Feng Xiaoli. The government officer stopped them. ¡°This is a restricted area of the Ministry of Revenue; outsiders are not allowed inside.¡± ¡°We are not outsiders; I am here to see my father, my father is Dugu Wu.¡± The officer was amused by her adorable appearance. ¡°I¡¯ll inform him for you.¡± Inside, when Dugu Wu heard the footsteps, he impatiently said, ¡°Didn¡¯t I say I will not see anyone?¡± But then, his ears perked up, seeming to hear Feng Xiaoli¡¯s voice. He stood up abruptly. ¡°Who is outside?¡± The officer hurriedly said, ¡°Princess Feng and her daughter Feng Xiaoli.¡± ¡°How long have they been waiting? Who told you not to report them? Bring them in quickly.¡± The officer was frustrated¡ªwasn¡¯t it the Prince who ordered no disturbances? Just as the officer walked away, Dugu Wu touched his face. ¡°Lu Yin, where are my clean clothes?¡± These days, he had been so busy with official duties that he hadn¡¯t shaved or changed his clothes, Dugu Wu quickly grabbed his cane and rushed to the back hall. Mercenaries Lu Yin and Su Wang saw Dugu Wu¡¯s hurried appearance and couldn¡¯t help but laugh. When Feng Bailing and her daughter came in, they saw various account books piled up inside; Lu Yin and Su Wang had grim faces, working on the abacuses clattering away, Dugu Wu sitting upright at the desk. Upon seeing Feng Xiaoli, a serious look finally broke into a smile on his face. Feng Xiaoli dashed forward and hugged Dugu Wu. ¡°Daddy, don¡¯t you want Xiaoli anymore?¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s heart tightened, lifting up the little one. ¡°It¡¯s Daddy¡¯s fault, I¡¯ve been too busy these days. Once this busy period is over, Daddy will visit you every day and play with you.¡± ¡°Over after this busy period? When will that be? Dugu, I¡¯m telling you, even if we were super capable, we couldn¡¯t compete with all those people. In my opinion, you should just drop this messy Ministry of Revenue business and go back to being a leisurely Prince.¡± Lu Yin complained. They had been dealing with these accounts for two days and nights. Su Wang also shook his head. ¡°Prince, there are just too many account books; we really can¡¯t manage with just the few of us.¡± ¡°With just the three of you, of course you can¡¯t, but with me added, that¡¯s a different story,¡± Feng Bailing said with a smile. Chapter 114 - 114 116 Discovering Feng Bailings Virtues ?Chapter 114: Chapter 116: Discovering Feng Bailing¡¯s Virtues Chapter 114: Chapter 116: Discovering Feng Bailing¡¯s Virtues ¡°Alas, Master Feng Xiao, when it comes to medical skills, you are unmatched. But accounting, especially the accounts of the Ministry of Revenue...¡± Lu Yin paused, hesitant to continue. It wasn¡¯t him boasting. Among the three men present, in terms of calculating finances, they could rank within the top ten in Chu City. Yet the accounts of the Ministry of Revenue were too chaotic; the records of nearly a decade were a complete mess, and it was impossible to sort them out in just a few days. Feng Bailing picked up an account book and flipped through a few pages. She took pen, ink, paper, and inkstone, and wrote down several lines. She wrote down the Arabic numerals 1234567890, corresponding to the traditional Chinese numbers Ò»¶þÈý (One Two Three) and so on. ¡°All expenditures shall be recorded as credits, while all income shall be debits. Over the past decade, all accounts are only divided into these two categories. Then, use these numbers for statistical classification. You guys sort them out accordingly, and I¡¯ll take care of the tally at the end.¡± What Feng Bailing said sounded simple, but everyone present was exceptionally clever. Once she explained, their eyes lit up, especially Dugu Wu, who saw that Feng Bailing¡¯s method was simple and clear, doubling the results with half the effort. ¡°There¡¯s no time like the present. Let¡¯s get started.¡± Dugu Wu hesitated no more and handed a portion of the account books to Feng Bailing. Outside the Ministry of Revenue, Nalan Yan¡¯er had been sitting in the horse carriage for a good while, just waiting for Feng Bailing to suffer the same snub and get thrown out. Dugu Wu harbored disgust towards Feng Bailing because of something involving Princess Mingxia; that woman, unaware of her own limits, still insisted on getting involved. The matter involving Princess Mingxia was something Nalan Yan¡¯er was well aware of. The one inciting Feng Bailing against Mingxia from behind the scenes was none other than Feng Xiangxue. And the mastermind plotting with her was Nalan Yan¡¯er herself. She originally had no grudge against Feng Bailing, but seeing as she couldn¡¯t be with Dugu Wu, she didn¡¯t want to see Feng Bailing, a simpleton, succeed in her wishes, joining the Royal Family, and becoming her sister-in-law. But after waiting for quite a while, instead of being driven out, she saw government officers rushing out to invite them in with great respect. An hour passed and neither mother nor daughter were turned away. At that moment, Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s heart wrenched fiercely. Her fair face turned deathly pale with anger, and with a fierce pull, she drew the carriage curtain and commanded, ¡°To the Grandmaster Mansion.¡± At the Grandmaster Mansion, officials from the Ministry of Revenue and the disciples of the Old Grand Preceptor were very busy coming and going. A large number of account books were piled up like small hills on one side. The Old Grand Preceptor showed signs of weariness, but he felt very satisfied with the progress of the audit. Things were going smoothly, and in another seven or eight days, the accounts should be clear. Compared to Dugu Wu, his place must be in total disarray by now, right? Seeing Dugu Wu humbled would please Grandmaster Nalan immensely. Upon seeing Nalan Yan¡¯er entering, the Old Grand Preceptor¡¯s expression darkened, and he approached her, lowering his voice to ask, ¡°Did you go to Dugu Wu again?¡± A heavy feeling descended upon Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s heart; nothing she did escaped her grandfather¡¯s notice. She feigned nonchalance. ¡°Grandfather, I went to gather information for you. I followed your instructions and revealed to him the incident of Princess Minxia¡¯s drowning. As expected, he got upset and drove out the last few officials from the Ministry of Revenue. Now, only he, Lu Yin, and an accountant are left there, nothing substantial will come of it.¡± Only then did the Old Grand Preceptor show a satisfied smile. ¡°Yan¡¯er, you are my most proud granddaughter and my future successor. The Nalan Family has expended much effort to make you the Crown Princess Consort, do not let me down. Whether the Nalan Family can continue to thrive in Great Chu now depends on you.¡± ¡°With Dugu Wu having lost his military power, if he now also loses his position at the Ministry of Revenue, he will surely be unable to recover. By then, no one will threaten the Nalan Family¡¯s status in the Emperor¡¯s heart.¡± The Old Grand Preceptor stroked his beard, his face full of pride, while Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s expression was complicated. Night fell, and Feng Bailing, holding the sleeping Feng Xiaoli, went to rest in the adjacent room. Su Wang and Lu Yin, having toiled for several days and nights, were now unable to hold on. Seeing that the accounts were nearly in order, Dugu Wu told the two men to rest. Inside the hall, silence reigned, with only the occasional crackle of sparks from the oil lamp. Dugu Wu¡¯s brows, furrowed for several days, finally relaxed, but then tensed up again immediately. Although the accounts had been sorted out, he had discovered an even bigger problem. A fragrance wafted over, and Dugu Wu lifted his gaze. Feng Bailing walked in, holding a pot of tea in her hands¡ªthe fragrance emanated from the pot. ¡°Have some milk tea to refresh yourself.¡± Feng Bailing placed the tea she was holding down with a beaming smile. Having pulled several all-nighters without coffee, milk tea was the only option. Milk tea? Dugu glanced at the milky yellow tea in the cup in front of him, took a small sip, and savored the rich creaminess, combined with the freshness of the tea leaves and a subtle hint of honey, smooth on the palate. Delicious. Just one cup made him feel instantly warmer. This woman always managed to surprise him when he least expected it. ¡°Did your master teach you all these as well? How many more secrets are you keeping from me, Feng Bailing?¡± Dugu Wu asked with a heavy voice. Suddenly, he grabbed Feng Bailing¡¯s hand and pulled her in front of him. His movement was so abrupt that Feng Bailing lost her balance and fell onto his lap. Both were momentarily stunned. In the next moment, Feng Bailing let out a sigh. Feng Bailing cupped Dugu¡¯s face with both hands, forehead resting against his. From this angle, the overpowering Emperor¡¯s aura was inescapable, and Feng Bailing¡¯s heart blossomed with joy. Dugu Wu¡¯s body stiffened all over, and a tingling sensation spread throughout his body. His eyes were captivated by the light in the eyes of the woman before him. Through the veil, Feng Bailing¡¯s face took on an indistinct and hazy beauty. Her voice was soft. ¡°Dugu Wu, no matter who taught me my skills, one thing will never change. That is, I will never harm you or Xiaojin.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s words came from the heart; she and Dugu Wu could only be husband and wife for a year. In this year, he protected her, she treated his leg. It was this man before her who, against public opinion, took in her body left to rot in the streets in her past life. Feng Bailing would also never forget that it was Xiaojin who repeatedly brought her food and clothing when she was cold and starving. The warmth from the woman¡¯s palms kept traveling, reaching into Dugu Wu¡¯s heart, slowly melting the ice within. ¡°Soon we are to be married, and trust and respect are the cornerstones of marriage. I hope that in the coming year, we both can trust and respect each other. That we will always stand by each other¡¯s side and help one another through difficult times.¡± After Feng Bailing finished speaking, she blinked her eyes and then casually said, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we discuss the wedding date now?¡± Dugu Wu awkwardly turned his face away; he had almost been bewitched by this woman. However, considering that she had helped him significantly... Dugu Wu¡¯s lips curled up, feeling as warm and sweet as if he had drunk milk tea. This feeling was something he had never experienced before. ¡°Tomorrow morning, Princess Consort Shun will go to the Princess¡¯ Mansion to propose marriage.¡± Chapter 115 - 115 117 The Battle for the Luxury Mansion ?Chapter 115: Chapter 117: The Battle for the Luxury Mansion Chapter 115: Chapter 117: The Battle for the Luxury Mansion With those blood-sucking leeches of the Feng Family gone, these past few days at the Princess¡¯ Mansion, both Feng Bailing and her daughter have been sleeping very well. However, at the other end of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Zhanlian, fuming with anger, did not sleep a wink all night. The Princess¡¯ Mansion was divided into two parts: the main gate was sealed, and the plaque was taken down. The storeroom was also allocated to the east wing, and Dongfang Lianhua took all the servant contracts after she was ordered to live separately. Moreover, the courtyard that came with the east wing was the largest; the other wings only had small courtyards left, each with barely one or two maids or nannies. This made the people of the Feng Family green with rage. ¡°My lord, don¡¯t be angry. I¡¯ll hire new maids and servants for you tomorrow.¡± Lady Nan Feng smiled warmly, staying by Feng Zhanlian¡¯s side, soothing him. ¡°You understand me so well, Nan Feng.¡± Feng Zhanlian, caressing Lady Nan Feng¡¯s hand, now had a smile on his face. ¡°In half a year, we will all be kicked out. What¡¯s the point of having so many people? Moreover, we don¡¯t have enough silver to hire them. The Princess took all the shops and fiefs.¡± Aunt Xue said sourly, seeing the affectionate behavior between Lady Nan Feng and Feng Zhanlian. ¡°My Lord, actually I think the Princess¡¯ Mansion is old and worn-out, it¡¯s uncomfortable to live in. I¡¯ve already arranged for someone to purchase the mansion next door. Within a couple of days, once the furniture is settled, we can move in.¡± Lady Nan Feng sneered inwardly. How dare a mere scholar¡¯s daughter oppose her? ¡°Nan Feng, you¡¯re truly my precious darling.¡± Upon hearing this, Feng Zhanlian felt like heaven had sent him a pie, leaving him dazzled. He jumped up and planted a big kiss on Lady Nan Feng. He had been worrying last night; if he truly divorced Dongfang Lianhua, even his status as Prince Consort would be gone, and he might lose his cushy official position. Without a salary and lacking shops, his entire family might end up destitute. Now, hearing about Lady Nan Feng¡¯s grand gesture, he cast all his troubles aside. The mansion next to the Princess¡¯ Mansion used to belong to the late Duke An. After Duke An¡¯s death, his descendants settled in their fiefs, leaving the grand mansion vacant. That mansion was much larger than the Princess¡¯ Mansion, with several successive sections, southern-style pavilions, and northern-style broad martial arts grounds. It was said that the mansion was vast enough to ride horses in. Feng Zhanlian had always dreamed of living in such a splendid mansion. Compared to it, the Princess¡¯ Mansion was nothing but a shabby stable. Aunt Xue¡¯s face became even uglier; she looked resentfully at her daughter, Feng Xiangxue. But Feng Xiangxue¡¯s eyes quickly lit up with joy. Aunt Xue had lost all her savings to Jubao House. Now she was embarrassed for funds; it was all her mother¡¯s fault for betting everything on Luochen¡¯s future. Feng Xiangxue thought about her upcoming marriage. The Crown Princess Consort had said that she would soon have an excellent opportunity. If she seized it, she could go from being one of Dongfang Li¡¯s concubines to his concubine. If she truly became a concubine, she would bring a significant dowry. That dowry money, she hoped, would come from Lady Nan Feng. ¡°Aunt Nan, I heard that Duke An¡¯s Mansion even has a dedicated music pavilion and flower room; I¡¯ve been longing to see them.¡± Although Feng Xiangxue truly looked down on women like Lady Nan Feng who came from the demi-monde, she did not despise Lady Nan Feng¡¯s silver. ¡°This morning, I can take you few to the mansion to look around. I¡¯ve even hung up the signboard; it¡¯s called Feng Mansion.¡± Having said that, Feng Zhanlian was too eager to wait. He gathered Feng Zhan Tian¡¯s family and, supporting Old Madam Feng, the whole family was overjoyed to go to Duke An¡¯s Mansion ¡ª oh no, to Feng Mansion. ¡°What¡¯s all this commotion outside so early in the morning?¡± Today, Princess Consort Shun was coming to propose marriage, so Feng Bailing got up early to prepare Feng Xiaoli, asking Chun Liu to send Feng Xiaoli to the Imperial Academy. As soon as they arrived at the doorstep, they saw the Feng Family exiting through a side gate. Upon seeing Feng Bailing and her daughter, Feng Zhanlian straightened his back. ¡°South Wind, you have used your own private funds to purchase such a large residence for the Feng Family. What kind of virtue and ability do I possess to marry you? Unlike some people, selfish and self-centered, ungrateful, daring to plot against their own birth father. What goes around comes around, and there will be retribution sooner or later.¡± Feng Zhanlian had a smug look on his face that suggested the success of a crook. ¡°Speaking of which, Sister Bailing, you should quickly persuade the Princess to allow Aunt Nan to enter the household. That way, she could move into the new residence and no longer have to live in that leaky, haunted old house.¡± Feng Xiangxue spoke with feigned consideration. Feng Bailing raised an eyebrow and glanced at the large residence next door. Lady Nan Feng was truly generous. The purchase of such a grand estate must have cost a massive sum of 200,000 taels. Yet, if she had that amount of money, why insist on living next to the Princess¡¯ Mansion? There are many other residencies with good feng shui and large courtyards in Chu City, like Duke An¡¯s Mansion. ¡°My mother has no such fortune to live in a luxury mansion. I¡¯ve seen plenty of people living off others, but never an entire family doing it with such delight.¡± Bai Ling shook her head. The faces of the Feng family members darkened. ¡°Why waste words on her, a doomed short-lived creature.¡± Feng Zhanlian spat with disdain. What did it matter that she married Dugu Wu? It was still uncertain how long she could live. Little Feng Xiaoli puffed out her cheeks; she had been attending more of the teacher¡¯s lectures recently and had learned many new words. The term ¡®doomed short-lived creature¡¯ was not something to be said lightly. Dare to curse Her Majesty! Just then, there was a loud bang. The signboard that had been hung up that morning, which bore the inscription ¡°Feng Mansion,¡± started to shake and then, with a thud, fell down, its edge striking Feng Zhanlian right on the head. Blood sprayed from Feng Zhanlian¡¯s forehead as he screamed in pain, sitting on the ground. Feng Bailing was startled and covered Feng Xiaoli¡¯s mouth, gently pinching her little face in reproach. Feng Xiaoli stuck out her tongue, hugged Feng Bailing¡¯s neck, and kissed her, transforming from a little devil to irresistibly cute in an instant. Feng Bailing shook her head, caught between tears and laughter, thinking that she would need to practice more medicine and charity to accrue virtue for Xiaoli. ¡°Go quickly and call for a doctor.¡± Lady Nan Feng was also shocked. The signboard, in perfect condition, how could it have fallen? The Feng family members were in a panic. Just as they were about to take Feng Zhanlian to the clinic, a group of people, looking like house servants, approached the main entrance of ¡°Feng Mansion.¡± ¡°Who are you? This is a private residence, and no outsiders may come near.¡± The group was tall and sturdy-looking, extremely fierce, and began throwing Feng Zhan Tian and the others out onto the street. ¡°Hold on, this is Feng Mansion, we are the Feng family members, and we¡¯ve come today to reclaim the property.¡± Lady Nan Feng, accustomed to grand scenes, faced the group with no trace of fear. ¡°Feng Mansion?¡± One of them approached, his body rippling with muscle, and with the thud of a large fist, smashed the signboard to splinters. ¡°Work for Feng Mansion? Our master just bought this house. Never heard of any Feng Mansion or dog Mansion.¡± Chapter 116 - 116 118 The Despicable Prince Consort Feng ?Chapter 116: Chapter 118 The Despicable Prince Consort Feng Chapter 116: Chapter 118 The Despicable Prince Consort Feng Lady Nan Feng¡¯s smile vanished like the sun melting snow, leaving no trace on her face. ¡°This brother, make yourself clear, the Duke An¡¯s residence was just purchased by me yesterday morning, and I have already paid the deposit.¡± All her life, Lady Nan Feng had snatched other people¡¯s men and estates, but she had never been outmaneuvered by someone else. ¡°Auntie, I¡¯m telling you for the last time, this residence was bought by my master yesterday afternoon, with 400,000 taels of snowflake silver, and the land deed and the house deed have been signed and sealed by Duke Rong¡¯s Mansion. If you keep making trouble without reason, don¡¯t blame me for reporting this to the authorities.¡± Only then did Lady Nan Feng understand that she had indeed been outbid. Upon hearing that the residence was lost, Feng Zhanlian, whose forehead was still bleeding, ignored his injuries and desperately got up. ¡°Nan Feng, you should go find the Capital Governor for justice. How could they have bought our residence first? Is there no law anymore?¡± ¡°Master, things have come to this point; let¡¯s go back and make plans with more time,¡± suggested someone. A person of Lady Nan Feng¡¯s discernment noticed that those several guards were no ordinary people. Although they haven¡¯t reached the level of manifesting the Wuji Seal, they were close to that level of martial prowess already. For an ordinary wealthy family, having one such guard was exceptional, and the opposition had more than a dozen ¨C given the situation, she did not want to escalate things and pulled Feng Zhanlian and his family to leave first. ¡°I wonder which nouveau riche is spending so lavishly.¡± This farcical scene did not escape the watchful eye of Feng Bailing; she glanced at the mansion across the street, slightly puzzled, but considering the hour, she had no time to think further and got into the horse carriage with Feng Xiaoli. Shortly after 3 p.m., outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, a horse carriage bearing the emblem of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion came to a stop. In accordance with the agreement, Feng Bailing had just been accepted into Yuxiu Academy, and despite her reluctance, Princess Consort Shun had to come and propose marriage. Housekeeper Zhu from Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion accompanied Princess Consort Shun. ¡°What is this? Even the front door of the Princess¡¯ Mansion is sealed. What an indignity,¡± Princess Consort Shun expressed her displeasure with the divided state of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°Reporting to Princess Consort, Princess Yong¡¯an went to the palace a few days ago to ask for a decree of divorce, and the Princess and the Prince Consort are now decreeably living separately,¡± reported Housekeeper Zhu. As soon as Housekeeper Zhu finished speaking, Princess Consort Shun frowned. ¡°How can a woman initiate a divorce? This just makes things difficult. Now that I¡¯m here to propose marriage, to which side should I go?¡± Princess Consort Shun showed her displeasure. As they were speaking, Housekeeper Zhu went to knock on the doors of both sides of the mansion. Feng Zhanlian¡¯s forehead was still aching, and upon hearing that Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion had come to propose marriage, he sneered. His beloved daughter¡¯s betrothal gifts were, of course, for him, the father, to accept. He straightened his robes, accompanied by Feng Zhan Tian and Aunt Xue, he proceeded to the exterior of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°It¡¯s our misfortune to have troubled Princess Consort Shun with our family affairs. I am the head of the family; the betrothal gifts should rightfully be given to me.¡± Just as Feng Zhanlian finished speaking, Housekeeper Zhu cleared his throat and began to read the list of marriage gifts. ¡°The betrothal gifts from Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion are as follows, to thank Prince Consort Feng for the birth of his daughter. One hundred taels of gold, nine black pigs, nine native dogs, ten bolts of cotton cloth, and a pair of Jade Ruyis. Above all, they represent the betrothal gifts given by Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion for the marriage of his daughter.¡± What? Feng Zhanlian, who had been full of anticipation for a substantial dowry, wondered if he had heard wrongly. Is that... it? Aunt Xue, standing behind him, was overjoyed in her heart. Dongfang Lianhua, so your daughter also has such a day. My daughter may not be of noble birth as yours but how her husband dotes on her! A few days prior, the Seventh Prince had also sent betrothal gifts. Concubines¡¯ betrothal gifts weren¡¯t typically significant, yet the Seventh Prince regarded Feng Xiangxue in a special light, and thus the gifts he sent far surpassed those given to Feng Bailing. Five thousand taels of silver, a pair of dragon and phoenix bracelets, two golden hairpins, several chests of various silk and fine materials, and a store in Chu City, were indeed respectable. Aunt Xue glanced at the other side of the Princess¡¯ Mansion where Mrs. Su and Dongfang Lianhua had just emerged. Hearing the list of betrothal gifts, even Mrs. Su was taken aback. Why did Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion give the betrothal gifts to that side? ¡°Princess Consort, I¡¯m afraid there¡¯s a mistake with these betrothal gifts,¡± said Feng Zhanlian tentatively looking towards Princess Consort Shun. Princess Consort Shun just smiled. ¡°Prince Consort Feng, the betrothal gifts were personally prepared by the Prince, and I¡¯m merely his mother by name. Besides, the Prince Mansion has married three Princess Consorts already; we cannot give away a mountain of gold and silver with each marriage.¡± Princess Consort Shun was quite pleased with this choice of betrothal gifts. ¡°If there are no objections, I would ask that Prince Consort accept these gifts.¡± Housekeeper Zhu had the pigs and dogs led over and delivered a chest of cloth and a pair of Jade Ruyis, of obviously poor quality. Feng Zhanlian felt dissatisfied. However, with the thought of at least acquiring a hundred taels of gold, a promissory note was instead handed to him by Housekeeper Zhu. ¡°Prince Consort Feng, this is a promissory note for the hundred taels of gold that the third son owes in the new gambling house purchased by the Prince. The Prince asked me to convey this to you.¡± Housekeeper Zhu¡¯s smile was as amiable as one could be. Feng Zhanlian¡¯s hand trembled as Lady Nan Feng quietly reminded him. ¡°Zhanlian, you can¡¯t accept these betrothal gifts from the Prince Mansion; if you do, Feng Mansion will be deemed lower than pigs and dogs.¡± Lady Nan Feng¡¯s words awakened Feng Zhanlian. Upon reflection, with nine pigs, nine dogs, some cloth, and the Ruyis, wasn¡¯t that implying that the nine members of Feng Mansion were worse than pigs and dogs? He was so angry that his face turned blue! He wanted to throw the promissory note in Housekeeper Zhu¡¯s face, but he dared not. Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu¡¯s marriage was decreed by the Emperor; he couldn¡¯t utter a word of refusal. ¡°Dad!¡± Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan had also just exited the mansion. They saw Prince Shun¡¯s horse carriage¡ªPrince Shun¡¯s Mansion had come to propose marriage, but all they saw were a few roughly made chests and some unknown pigs and dogs. Even average citizens had better marriage gifts, let alone the royal family. Feng Xiangxue¡¯s startled heart was filled with sarcasm as she looked towards Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing approached Dongfang Lianhua, who was slightly frowning and gripping Feng Bailing¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°Now that the betrothal has been offered, and a fortunate day already chosen, let¡¯s select the end of the month...¡± Princess Consort Shun¡¯s heart was sweet as honey upon seeing Dongfang Lianhua and her daughter¡¯s dejected faces. Although her daughter had informed her that Feng Bailing was not the murderer who harmed her, the thought of her daughter becoming mute made Princess Consort Shun furious. Yet, unable to resist her daughter¡¯s pleas, she had come to propose marriage. ¡°Report to Princess Consort, the betrothal gifts for Prince Consort Feng have been given. My lady, there is another set of betrothal gifts that the Prince has provided for Princess Feng.¡± Chapter 117 - 117 119 The Super Luxurious Bridal Gift ?Chapter 117: Chapter 119: The Super Luxurious Bridal Gift Chapter 117: Chapter 119: The Super Luxurious Bridal Gift Housekeeper Zhu cleared his throat after speaking, gave a bow to Feng Bailing, and took a newly prepared list of bridal gifts from the servant¡¯s hands. ¡°Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, Prince Wu, seeks the hand of Princess Shengping, with the following betrothal gifts: a large estate, several servants, craftsmen, and cooks, gold by ten thousand taels. Two Buddha gold statues, ten sets of precious trousseaus, two golden bookshelves, one thousand volumes of rare ancient books, ten golden jade hairpins, ten heaps of East Sea Night Pearls, two pieces of Red Jade Coral, twenty Daye brocade quilted mattresses, ten century-old ginseng roots, ten stalks of hundred-year-old Ganoderma, twenty portions of ancient medicine recipes, ten Beiqi Hanxue Horses, and fifty guards.¡± Having reported all in one breath, Feng Bailing was taken aback, and Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s grip on her daughter¡¯s hand relaxed unconsciously. The people from Feng Mansion were all silent as sparrows, while Feng Xiangxue¡¯s eyes rounded in astonishment. Wasn¡¯t it said Dugu Wu was a cripple? Feng Ruoyan was even more filled with envy and jealousy. Could it be that Dugu Wu was a rich cripple? The smile on Princess Consort Shun¡¯s face froze. ¡°Housekeeper Zhu, how come I am not aware of any of these betrothal gifts! As the matriarch of Prince Mansion, I should review the list of gifts before they can be considered valid.¡± What, was Dugu Wu intending to give all of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion¡¯s wealth to that woman? The expression on Princess Consort Shun¡¯s face changed unpredictably, and if it weren¡¯t for the public setting, she would have already burst out in anger. ¡°Your Highness, Princess Consort, all of these are the prince¡¯s personal assets. Ever since the prince joined the army, he has not asked for money from Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, and he even provides an annual subsidy to the mansion. According to the law, the prince has the right to dispose of his personal assets, and nobody except the Emperor has the right to question it.¡± Not to mention, even Emperor Yongye was not fully aware of many of the prince¡¯s private possessions. Housekeeper Zhu was an old member of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, and he knew very well how much they had taken from the prince over the years. It goes without saying that the prince has treated this new Princess Consort differently. The first three Princess Consorts¡¯ betrothal gifts were all drafted by Princess Consort Shun herself. The people from Feng Mansion understood; Dugu Wu had done it on purpose. He had deliberately made two sets of betrothal gifts, all to prevent Feng Zhanlian from getting his hands on Feng Bailing¡¯s betrothal gifts. ¡°Housekeeper Zhu, with all those bridal gifts you mentioned, don¡¯t tell me it¡¯s all talk and no delivery.¡± Feng Zhan Tian said sourly, had he known this would happen, he should have married Ruoyan to Prince Wu. But when Housekeeper Zhu and Princess Consort Shun arrived, they only had one horse carriage and a few servants, aside from that infuriating list of betrothal gifts, they saw no gold or medicine, nothing. Anyone can brag. Seventh Prince is indeed Emperor Yongye¡¯s own son, yet he could only offer those bridal gifts. What gave Dugu Wu, merely Emperor Yongye¡¯s lackey, the right to spend lavishly to marry Feng Sanwu, a woman whose engagement was broken off? As if he had anticipated it, Housekeeper Zhu took out a house deed and a land deed from his sleeve and respectfully presented them to Feng Bailing. ¡°This is the contract for the former Duke An¡¯s Mansion; please accept it, Princess. All the bridal gifts listed earlier have been placed inside Princess¡¯ Mansion, and you may review them one by one.¡± Having said that, Housekeeper Zhu walked over to the entrance of Duke An¡¯s Mansion and clapped his hands. The deep gate of the grand Duke An¡¯s Mansion suddenly opened. Dozens of strong and powerful guards and dozens of maids and nannies came out one after another, loudly saying. ¡°Greetings to Princess Shengping.¡± From now on, they would serve Princess Shengping as their master. ¡°I wonder what Dugu Wu is thinking?¡± Feng Bailing felt that these engagement gifts were somewhat burning hot in her hands. All for the face of Duke An¡¯s Mansion. Feng Bailing lowered her gaze, her ears turning slightly red, with a shy and timid expression. ¡°In life we promise each other solidarity; I will hold your hand and grow old with you. My heart is filled with gratitude for Prince¡¯s profound affection and can only accept this generous gift with thanks. Please, Housekeeper Zhu, convey my gratitude to the Prince on my behalf.¡± What elegant writing! Housekeeper Zhu secretly marveled. Who said Princess Feng is neither talented in literature nor competent in martial arts, and utterly useless? These four lines alone could probably outshine the foremost literary lady, Crown Princess Consort Nalan. The plaque with ¡°Princess¡¯ Mansion¡± carved by a renowned scholar from Great Chu hung prominently at the former entrance of Duke An¡¯s Mansion, striking and majestic! Feng Bailing, accompanied by Dongfang Lianhua, entered the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Mother and daughter counted the inventory, finding that the entire Duke An¡¯s Mansion had been refurbished anew. In fact, Dugu Wu prepared even more than what was listed on the gift inventory. There was a Pearwood carved bed, a variety of books and instruments, and even Feng Xiaoli¡¯s living quarters were properly furnished. In the Princess¡¯ Mansion stables, a litter of piglets was specially raised for Feng Xiaoli to play with, simply because he one day inadvertently heard Xiaoli¡¯s continuous longing for the piglets at the neighboring villa in Other Manor. Princess Consort Shun, upon seeing the dazzling array inside Duke An¡¯s Mansion ¡ª more luxurious than even Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion ¡ª left in a fury without even taking the horse carriage, taking a gloomy Housekeeper Zhu with her. Fifty thousand taels of gold, a duke¡¯s mansion that rightfully belonged to the Feng Family, and countless treasures ¡ª all of this compared to the meager engagement gifts Dongfang Li gave to Feng Xiangxue could hardly fill one firewood storage room of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Aunt Xue felt a surge of resentment stuck in her throat, nearly choking her. She covertly signaled her maidservant, who stealthily slipped away to inform Old Madam Feng of what had happened. Old Madam Feng, who had been upset about losing Duke An¡¯s Mansion and refusing to eat for days with a pained heart, instantly dropped her act of illness and abandoned her Jiutou Stick. She rushed out as fast as she could. ¡°Ah Ling, my dear granddaughter. Now that you¡¯ve acquired wealth, you must not forget your grandmother and your father, and your uncle¡¯s family. Look at Duke An¡¯s Mansion, how spacious and luxurious it is. It¡¯ll be empty when you marry; why not let the family move in?¡± Old Madam Feng¡¯s aged face lit up with excitement, filled with greed, blocking the entrance to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°Old Madam Feng, I have neither a father who sold his own daughter, nor a grandmother who bullied my mother, nor an uncle who embezzled the Princess¡¯ Mansion¡¯s property.¡± Feng Bailing spoke with a smile, her words laced with barbs. Upon hearing this, Old Madam Feng¡¯s face instantly changed. She sat down right in front of the Princess¡¯ Mansion gates, wailing and crying, ¡°I cannot live on! The Princess¡¯ Mansion is oppressing the good people; they¡¯re trying to starve our entire family to death. They dine in luxury inside, while our family is left to starve in the cold wind. Dongfang Lianhua, don¡¯t think you can enjoy your life alone without us. If you don¡¯t let us move in, I will smash my head and die right in front of the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± Old Madam Feng made as if to bang her head against the door. Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s face changed and she let out a breath. ¡°Someone let the dogs out.¡± Out from the Princess¡¯ Mansion rushed several fierce hounds, like wolves and tigers, shooting out like arrows. When Duke An¡¯s Mansion was cleared out, the guard dogs were not taken away and were bought by Dugu Wu all together. Dongfang Lianhua, upon seeing them earlier, didn¡¯t understand the purpose of raising these wolf-like dogs, but now, they quickly proved their use. Old Madam Feng, who was refusing to get up just moments ago, now ran for her life. Within a few steps, the ferocious dogs were upon her. Tongues lolling, eyes gleaming with a chilling light, the leading dog leaped forward, biting Old Madam Feng¡¯s heel. Chapter 118 - 118 120 Angered the Old Grand Preceptor to the ?Chapter 118: Chapter 120: Angered the Old Grand Preceptor to the Point of Coughing Up Blood Chapter 118: Chapter 120: Angered the Old Grand Preceptor to the Point of Coughing Up Blood Old Madam Feng let out a scream like a pig being slaughtered. ¡°Dongfang Lianhua, Feng Bailing, you two are pushing things too far.¡± With rage surging, Feng Zhanlian rushed forward to argue. ¡°Throw him out.¡± Before Feng Bailing could speak, several guards already stood in front of Feng Bailing and her daughter, dragging the frail Feng Zhanlian out like tossing out trash, leaving him on the street. At night, the lights were brightly lit inside the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Inside the Flower Hall of the former Princess¡¯ Mansion, the air was so oppressive it seemed to solidify. Feng Zhanlian¡¯s face was gaunt, and blood seeped from a wound on his forehead. His expression was more dreadful than that of a man who lost his mother. He couldn¡¯t fathom how the successful bidder for Duke An¡¯s Mansion could be Dugu Wu. After Old Madam Feng was carried away, her continuous crying and wailing resonated through the small Princess¡¯ Mansion, driving everyone to the brink of annoyance. Feng Xiangxue sat beside Aunt Xue, still reluctant to tell her about the day¡¯s events, quietly sobbing. ¡°Cry, cry, cry, that¡¯s all you know. Do you think we¡¯re not miserable enough?¡± Feng Zhanlian glanced at Feng Xiangxue, who he once saw as beautiful and well-educated, hoping she could lead the family to prosperity like Nalan Yan¡¯er. He raised her with no expense spared on food, clothing, or anything else. Yet she had let him down, only becoming a concubine. If she had become the Seventh Princess Consort, he would never be subjected to the insults from Dongfang Lianhua and her daughter. ¡°Big brother, why don¡¯t you go and apologize to the Princess. There should be no overnight grudges between husband and wife.¡± Feng Zhan Tian rubbed his hands together. He had thought the Princess¡¯ Mansion was a hollow shell, but the dowry of Feng Bailing was exceedingly generous. ¡°Unless I die, why am I so unlucky to cross paths with this mother and daughter pair. Nan Feng, why don¡¯t you spend some money to buy a new residence, and we move out. Out of sight, out of mind.¡± Feng Zhanlian forced a smile, looking expectantly at Lady Nan Feng. ¡°Zhanlian, you are still a Prince Consort; leaving the Princess¡¯ Mansion abruptly might not be proper. You and the Princess have been peaceful for many years. If this misfortune has befallen us, it¡¯s my fault for falling in love with you.¡± Lady Nan Feng¡¯s charming face was full of guilt. ¡°That¡¯s right. Uncle has always treated the Princess with mutual respect. It was only after Feng Bailing came back that the Princess suddenly became at odds with Uncle, and she started targeting me and Sister Xiangxue, openly and secretly. Today...¡± Feng Ruoyan timidly looked towards Feng Xiangxue. ¡°Today, she provoked some Warrior out of nowhere. That Warrior tried to assault us on the way back to the mansion, killing the Coachman. We nearly got killed as well.¡± Feng Xiangxue gave Feng Ruoyan a meaningful glare. This matter was related to her reputation and must not be known by her parents or Dongfang Li. She would make sure Ruoyan kept it to herself. ¡°What? That harbinger of doom! If I had known earlier, I should¡¯ve killed her and that bastard child when she made that scandalous act four years ago.¡± Upon hearing this, Feng Zhanlian erupted like thunder. She¡¯s just like a dog that can¡¯t stop eating its own vomit, Feng Bailing is nothing but a promiscuous wench! ¡°Father, could it be that Sister and our Feng Mansion have a clash? I¡¯ve heard that some people¡¯s birth dates can bring misfortune to their parent¡¯s family.¡± Feng Xiangxue whispered. ¡°The eight characters of her birth date?¡± Though a scholar, Feng Zhanlian didn¡¯t usually indulge in the discussion of ghosts and spirits, but recalling the recent events, he¡¯d been poisoned, sold off, divorced, and his head injured. All these mishaps were connected to Feng Bailing. ¡°Master, I heard that the highly respected State Preceptor has returned to the palace. The Empress had previously taken Ah Ling¡¯s horoscope for matching. The results are unknown, but perhaps we can inquire at the Crown Princess Consort¡¯s place tomorrow?¡± Aunt Xue spoke softly, calculation flickering in her eyes. An hour ago, after receiving the officials¡¯ greetings, Emperor Yongye discussed state affairs. Thinking of the Ministry of Revenue, the Emperor asked, ¡°Old Grand Preceptor, how goes the auditing of the Ministry of Revenue¡¯s accounts?¡± Upon hearing this, Old Grand Preceptor approached and spoke gravely. ¡°Reporting to the Emperor, it will take no more than ten days to clarify the accounts.¡± ¡°¡± After speaking, the Old Grand Preceptor paused and looked towards Dugu Wu. ¡°Prince Wu, I wonder how the investigation of the accounts on your side is going?¡± The Old Grand Preceptor was asking what he already knew, all the officials thought in their hearts. The officials of the Ministry of Revenue were all people of the Old Grand Preceptor. Prince Wu, a military general, standing alone, how could it be possible for him to clearly investigate those rotten and outdated accounts? Dugu Wu stepped forward and spoke in a deep voice. ¡°Reporting to Your Majesty, the accounts have been thoroughly investigated.¡± A frozen smile stuck on the Old Grand Preceptor¡¯s aged face. Emperor Yongye was also somewhat surprised. Dugu Wu presented an account book to Li Qing to give to Emperor Yongye. After Emperor Yongye flipped through it, his face instantly became grave, and he fiercely slammed the account book down. ¡°How could this be, the Ministry of Revenue¡¯s deficit is so severe.¡± ¡°Old Grand Preceptor, what exactly is going on?¡± The Old Grand Preceptor¡¯s complexion changed. Li Qing quickly handed the account book to the Old Grand Preceptor. The Old Grand Preceptor flipped through it briefly and immediately broke out in a cold sweat. He originally thought that Dugu Wu was boasting, presenting a fake account book to deceive the Emperor. But with one glance, the Old Grand Preceptor knew that the accounts were correct. Dugu Wu continued. ¡°The Ministry of Revenue has a deficit of several hundred thousand taels. The biggest two deficits are the tax levies of the royal family members, in addition to the loans borrowed annually by officials from the Ministry of Revenue. We must make up for the deficits and recover these two portions of funds, otherwise, this year¡¯s military salaries for the border wars will be jeopardized.¡± ¡°What does the Old Grand Preceptor believe should be done?¡± Dugu Wu looked at the Old Grand Preceptor, and within this matter were the Old Grand Preceptor¡¯s own family¡¯s tax levies. The Old Grand Preceptor¡¯s face darkened, and it took a long while before he squeezed out a statement. ¡°What Prince Wu has said is indeed correct.¡± He held back a surge of resentment in his heart, unable to comprehend how Dugu Wu could have so quickly cleared up the accounts. As the Old Grand Preceptor was entangled in confusion, Sacrificial Officer Guo stepped forward. ¡°Reporting to Your Majesty, this old minister has a matter to report, earnestly asking the Emperor to expel the Imperial Grandson from the Imperial Academy. The Imperial Grandson has spoken disrespectfully, confronted his superiors, and slandered and falsely accused his classmates. I request Your Majesty¡¯s gracious approval.¡± Hearing that his most beloved Dongfang Jin was to be expelled from the Imperial Academy, the Old Grand Preceptor felt a sweetness in his throat, and coughed up blood, fainting on the spot in the court. After the court session, Dugu Wu went to pay a visit to the Empress Dowager, and regarding the Princess Consort Shun¡¯s engagement proposal to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, it was also necessary to report to the Empress Dowager. She would surely be delighted to hear it. When Dugu Wu came out from the Empress Dowager Palace, he encountered the Empress face to face. ¡°Prince Wu, I¡¯ve heard that your happy event with Princess Feng is approaching soon, congratulations.¡± The Empress had a friendly expression. Emperor Yongye¡¯s Empress, with the surname Xiao, came from the same clan as Dongfang Li¡¯s Queen Mother. Unfortunately, the Empress had suffered a miscarriage in her early years and had injured her body, never conceiving again and having no offspring. The Eldest Prince Dongfang Cheng, whilst still a child, lost his mother to illness, and it was the Empress who had adopted him. This Empress had always had a good reputation in the court; she was not arrogant like Noble Princess Consort Xiao, and was amicable towards all the concubines in the harem. Though her appearance was not as dazzling as that of Noble Princess Consort Xiao and her like, she was still considered dignified and graceful. ¡°With the Emperor¡¯s concern, he has ordered me to marry early.¡± The Empress smiled and mentioned the matter of matching horoscopes. ¡°Has Prince Wu had your horoscopes matched with Miss Feng? The palace has been unsettled recently, and the Empress has invited a master to divine fortunes. Anyone entering or leaving the palace must have their horoscopes calculated.¡± Chapter 119 - 119 121 Daddy is a Super Straight Male ?Chapter 119: Chapter 121 Daddy is a Super Straight Male Chapter 119: Chapter 121 Daddy is a Super Straight Male In the Imperial Palace, a series of incidents have occurred recently, first the assassination attempt during the Spring Banquet, followed by the illness of the Empress Dowager and Noble Princess Consort Xiao, and the Ninth Prince got bitten by a snake in the Cold Palace. The Empress felt quite guilty about it, and it just so happened that Nalan Yan¡¯er proposed to find a master to take a look; the Empress then thought of Grand Preceptor Wu, who had just returned from his travels. ¡°This servant doesn¡¯t believe in these things.¡± Dugu Wu made a gesture of salutation and left on his own. The corners of the Empress¡¯s mouth held a smile as she talked to herself. ¡°Prince Wu¡¯s temperament, just like his mother¡¯s.¡± In Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, as soon as the Princess Consort Shun returned, she burst out in anger, but it was thanks to the reminder of her nanny that after Feng Bailing married in, she would be the daughter-in-law of Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion, and Princess Consort Shun would become a mother-in-law, with the power to deal with her then as she wished. Upon hearing this, Princess Consort Shun¡¯s anger subsided. Housekeeper Zhu went to report back to Dugu Wu. A pledge of life and death, a promise of a lifetime. Holding your hand, we will grow old together. ¡°Did she really say that?¡± What ¡°Holding your hand, we will grow old together¡±. Did she also say these words to Dongfang Li? At the time of breaking off the engagement, it became an amicable separation, each finding their own happiness. Feng Bailing¡¯s mouth, a deceitful ghost! After Housekeeper Zhu reported, he bowed and withdrew. Even so, Dugu Wu decided to visit the mother and daughter. The matter of birth date, with the sudden inquiry from the Empress, there must be something fishy. Outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, a group of guards was stunned as they watched Feng Bailing familiarizing the Greedy Wolf King with the environment in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. They were soldiers personally trained by Dugu Wu, and they absolutely did not believe Feng Bailing¡¯s claim that the Greedy Wolf King was a dog. But the Wolf King obediently followed behind Princess Feng, and for a moment, their gaze towards Feng Bailing contained a bit more fear and respect. They all realized then, no wonder Prince Wu went through so much trouble to prepare a mansion as elaborate as the Princess¡¯ Mansion as an engagement gift, the future Princess Consort Wu was extraordinary! After strolling the grounds, hearing that Dugu Wu had arrived and was in the pigsty keeping Feng Xiaoli company as she watched her piglets, Feng Bailing made her way to the pigsty. Just as she approached the pigsty, she heard Feng Xiaoli¡¯s childish voice. ¡°Daddy~ hold Dahua, Dahua is so cute!¡± The pigsty of the Princess¡¯ Mansion was converted from Duke An¡¯s Mansion¡¯s former horse stable, clean and spacious, housing not only dozens of warhorses but also a litter of newly born Miniature Pigs that Dugu Wu gifted to Feng Xiaoli. After Feng Xiaoli had her own piglets, she wished she could hold them in sleep every day. Dugu Wu had a penchant for cleanliness, the serious kind. Expressionless, he let Feng Xiaoli place a piglet named Dahua into his arms. Dahua seemed to sense Dugu Wu¡¯s disgust, grunting and attempting to escape, leaving two hoof prints on Dugu Wu¡¯s clothes. Dugu Wu¡¯s face darkened a bit. ¡°This is Erhua, this is Sanhua, and this is Sihua.¡± Feng Xiaoli was enthusiastic in introducing her new friends. ¡°All four are pigs, no difference in taste when eaten.¡± Dugu Wu really couldn¡¯t see any difference between these piglets, all with black and white coats. The truest of straight men, the austere Dugu Wu. Feng Bailing mocked in her mind as she stepped forward. ¡°Their patterns are different.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes darkened. As Feng Bailing approached, he noticed the presence of the Greedy Wolf King, who also noticed Dugu Wu. It kept a wary distance. As the king among wolves, the Greedy Wolf King was nearly invincible on the battlefield, and its few defeats were at the hands of Dugu Wu. That man was capable of killing the Greedy Wolf King with his bare hands. The Greedy Wolf King stood rigidly in a standoff with Dugu Wu. ¡°Big doggy!¡± Feng Xiaoli dropped Dahua one, two, three, and four with joy upon seeing the Greedy Wolf King, and ran over to hug him. The Greedy Wolf King grunted softly and glanced at Feng Bailing. It wasn¡¯t just children; people were terrified of him upon sight. But these few individuals seemed different. Feng Bailing remained still, while Dugu Wu knitted his brows. Feng Xiaoli¡¯s soft little hands caressed the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s fur¡ªunlike the adults, she truly loved the Greedy Wolf King from the bottom of her heart. ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful. Her Majesty, Brother Xiaojin has a white doggy, I want a doggy too, I want it.¡± She rubbed her chubby little face against the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s head, her face beaming with the most radiant smile. The warm, heartfelt smile of a child. Dugu Wu frowned, but as he saw Feng Xiaoli¡¯s laugh, the words ¡°no way¡± just couldn¡¯t leave his mouth. ¡°Give it a name.¡± Feng Bailing smiled in silent consent. ¡°Hei Dian!¡± Without the slightest hesitation, Feng Xiaoli named the Greedy Wolf King. It was far smarter than ordinary wolves, having followed Xiao Junci for many years. Greedy Wolf King was just its title, it had never been given a name by anyone. Something seemed to melt a little in the Greedy Wolf King¡¯s eyes, which grew slightly moist. It grunted softly and then, careful and extremely gentle, licked Feng Xiaoli¡¯s cheek. Feng Xiaoli hugged Hei Dian¡¯s neck and giggled happily. A moment later, Chun Liu came to take the muddy Feng Xiaoli to change clothes to get ready for school, while the Greedy Wolf King was taken to be fed. ¡°There¡¯s something I have to tell you, Grand Preceptor Wu has returned. The Imperial Palace has taken our birth information; they might use this to make a move, you¡¯d better be ready.¡± Grand Preceptor Wu? Feng Bailing searched through her memories and indeed recalled such a person. This State Preceptor, whom she had seen in her youth, was an old woman, well-versed in astronomy and geography, a venerable elder with considerable Daoist prowess. If the other party wanted to make trouble, so be it¡ªif they really came knocking, she would then deal with it. Feng Bailing thought to herself. ¡°Prince, your hair is quite splendid.¡± Feng Bailing reached out her ¡°devil¡¯s claw¡± to touch Dugu Wu¡¯s shiny black hair, clicking her tongue in admiration. His thick black hair and enviable hairline truly made her envious. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of dying? Most of the women who married me nearly all died.¡± Dugu Wu was so annoyed that his teeth itched as he swatted Feng Bailing¡¯s hand away. Feng Bailing¡¯s eyes lit up as she seized his hand. ¡°Prince, have you recently been eating and sleeping poorly? You¡¯ve been married three times now, you¡¯re not afraid of marriage, are you?¡± ¡°Shut up!¡± Dugu Wu had never met a woman more shameless than Feng Bailing! He tried to shake off Feng Bailing¡¯s hand but suddenly, the words she had Housekeeper Zhu bring back popped into his mind. A vow in the face of life and death, to speak of our union. Holding your hand, to grow old together. ¡°Feng Bailing, I¡¯m telling you, I can give you the Princess¡¯ Mansion, but I can also take it away at any time. If you are still alive a year from now and my leg is healed, the Princess¡¯ Mansion will be completely yours to dispose of as you wish. But if you haven¡¯t healed my leg or if you think of running away early, I will have everyone buried with you.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s face was grim. The joy on Feng Bailing¡¯s face disappeared. Chapter 120 - 120 122 He Held Her Tight ?Chapter 120: Chapter 122 He Held Her Tight Chapter 120: Chapter 122 He Held Her Tight Feng Bailing watched as Dugu Wu took out another identical contract. So, everything in this Princess¡¯ Mansion, including all the jewelry and gold, is a jointly owned property of the couple. When the time comes, if she wanted to take her family and Chun Liu, Mrs. Su, and the others to flee far away, there was simply no way to liquidate the mansion? This Dugu Wu, an old cunning and shrewd fellow. He even staked the lives of all the guards and servants in the mansion. Feng Bailing didn¡¯t consider herself a good person, but she would never sit by and watch so many innocent people be buried with her. This man, cold-blooded and ruthless, was a great demon! Feng Bailing cursed Dugu Wu furiously. ¡°In a year¡¯s time, I promise I won¡¯t bother you anymore, and I¡¯ll take Xiao Li far away. However, since you brought it up, you might as well clarify, how did your previous Princess Consorts die?¡± Feng Bailing was angry, but she was still very clear that she had to find out exactly how those Princess Consorts died. ¡°You don¡¯t need to know too much, just that we do not consummate the marriage.¡± Dugu Wu snorted coldly, and for some reason, he felt uncomfortable when he heard her say she would take Xiao Li and leave. Dugu Wu had only walked a few steps when he felt the bright sunlight above his head gradually disappear, and the sky became overcast. Dugu Wu¡¯s face changed. Feng Bailing also looked up at the sky. ¡°Feng Wan, take Xiao Li into the house immediately!¡± From the shadows, Feng Wan acknowledged quietly. Dugu Wu grabbed Feng Bailing¡¯s hand. Feng Bailing looked up at the sky, the dazzling sun seemed to have been bitten, a black shadow gradually eroded the sun, and the sky turned darker and darker. ¡°It¡¯s just a solar eclipse...¡± Feng Bailing said dismissively. In the 22nd century, due to drastic environmental changes, solar activity also became more frequent, and solar and lunar eclipses often occurred. Feng Bailing had long since become used to it. However, a solar eclipse was not a good omen for Great Chu. There was even a rumor among the people of Great Chu that when the heavenly dog appears, evil spirits emerge, and chaos descends upon the world. ¡°Solar Eclipse¡ªan omen that disaster is upon us!¡± Worry tinged Dugu Wu¡¯s voice; the next moment, Feng Bailing felt a hand tightening around her waist. Before she could rejoice, she had already fallen into a broad chest. Inside Feng Bailing, her seventh sense surged at an alarming rate, like a drought welcoming sweet rain. Happiness came so suddenly. Feng Bailing was still a bit dazed. Without discussion, Dugu Wu held her, moving his crutch, heading towards the closest house. Everyone knew that during a solar eclipse, you had to seek shelter and hide until the eclipse was over, not just in Great Chu, but also in other dynasties. ¡°The solar eclipse is a celestial phenomenon.¡± Feng Bailing was held in Dugu Wu¡¯s arms feeling quite pleased when she suddenly felt that there was something wrong with Dugu Wu. The hands holding her tightened more and more as if he wanted to meld her into himself. ¡°Dugu Wu, you¡¯re hurting me.¡± Feng Bailing pushed at Dugu Wu, but his gaze stayed fixed outside on the house. His body stiff, he was like a stone sculpture. ¡°Don¡¯t leave me.¡± He said softly, the hands holding Feng Bailing unconsciously tightened even further. ¡°Mother... do not leave me.¡± The ground gradually darkened, as though night had fallen. In the darkness, Dugu Wu¡¯s mismatched pupils emitted a faint light, much like a wild beast. Under the shroud of darkness, he seemed to be trapped in a nightmare. It was also on that day that everything turned pitch black. His mother left him. She did not even look back. In the world, only he remained. Endless loneliness, endless darkness, he was like a drowning man, and the person in his arms was his only life raft. ¡°Mother... Ah Wu has solidified the Wuji Seal... I will protect you... don¡¯t leave me.¡± Feng Bailing felt Dugu Wu¡¯s body getting hotter, the hand holding her as if it would break her bones. He buried his head in her chest. Dugu Wu¡¯s mother? Feng Bailing looked at this man, usually as cold as an iceberg, shaking like a helpless child. She couldn¡¯t help but think of her own lost son. That child must also be three years old by now. Would he also think that she had abandoned him, didn¡¯t want him anymore? A chord was struck in her heart. Feng Bailing held Dugu Wu¡¯s head, protecting him in her arms, and the man¡¯s breathing faltered. That unique cold fragrance of the woman was so close. He even felt the softness in front of her. He suddenly came to his senses, his reason telling him to push her away, to push her away hard. But his hands tightened involuntarily, holding her even closer. The warmth from her body drove away the engulfing darkness. In the world, it wasn¡¯t just him anymore. The moment before the solar eclipse, in another mansion in Chu City, chaos reigned. ¡°Damn it, you all said the Imperial Grandson wasn¡¯t sick, how could he talk nonsense if he wasn¡¯t sick? You had no cure for the Empress Dowager¡¯s illness last time, and this time you¡¯re just as clueless, a bunch of incompetents.¡± Emperor Yongye was furious. One Imperial Physician had already been beheaded, and two others were thrown into prison. Emperor Yongye, frantic with worry, had rushed over to the Crown Prince Mansion early in the morning. Yesterday, the Imperial Academy¡¯s Sacrificial Officer Guo came to see the Emperor in a fit of rage. The first thing he said was that he could no longer be Dongfang Jin¡¯s teacher. When Emperor Yongye asked, he learned that Dongfang Jin had committed such an outrageous act. At such a young age, he had insulted his teacher, and Emperor Yongye, who had always revered teachers, was furious. He wanted to summon Dongfang Jin to punish him for his crime. Who would have thought that the Crown Prince Mansion would then send news that Dongfang Jin had been possessed by evil at the Imperial Academy and had fallen unconscious after being sent back, babbling incessantly. Nalan Yan¡¯er was distraught and sought the help of several Imperial Physicians overnight. Till dawn, when Emperor Yongye moved to the Crown Prince Mansion, Dongfang Jin had still not improved. At this point, everyone at the Crown Prince Mansion was walking on eggshells, fearing a slip might provoke Emperor Yongye and cost them their heads. ¡°Your Majesty, the State Preceptor has arrived.¡± Li Qing stepped forward to report. Upon hearing the State Preceptor had arrived, Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression changed from worry to joy. Then entered an elderly woman with gray hair. Chapter 121 - 121 123 Feng Bailings Eight Characters ?Chapter 121: Chapter 123 Feng Bailing¡¯s Eight Characters Chapter 121: Chapter 123 Feng Bailing¡¯s Eight Characters The old crone was well beyond her seventieth year, her hair gray and white, dressed in a direct-collared, dark yellow robe befitting of a Grand Preceptor, her thin face framed by faint eyebrows, and beneath those brows, eyes that seemed to have seen thousands of sails, brimming with wisdom. Upon seeing Emperor Yongye, she gave a slight nod of her head. ¡°Grand Preceptor Wu, please examine Jinjin¡¯s illness quickly.¡± Emperor Yongye, as if seeing a savior, let out a long sigh of relief. The old woman was none other than Grand Preceptor Wu, who held a transcendent status in the Great Chu Dynasty; she often traveled abroad and had just returned to Chu City not long ago. Hearing that something had happened in the Imperial Palace, she entered the palace yesterday, but didn¡¯t notice anything unusual. Grand Preceptor Wu walked to the bedside and saw a handsome young boy with his eyes tightly closed, his face as pale as golden paper. She was also well-versed in medical skills and took Dongfang Jin¡¯s pulse, her expression growing somber. ¡°How is it, Grand Preceptor Wu?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes were red and swollen, full of urgent concern. ¡°The Imperial Grandson is not sick.¡± His pulse was somewhat weak, but it did not indicate illness. ¡°Then what is it? He was fine when he went to study yesterday, but upon returning... At the academy, he uncharacteristically cursed at Sacrificial Officer Guo. He never behaves like this. Grand Preceptor Wu, could it be that Jinjin is possessed?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er stopped mid-sentence. Grand Preceptor Wu was about to speak. When suddenly, Dongfang Xiaojin on the bed abruptly sat up. ¡°A demon!¡± He opened his eyes wide in horror, shaking as if in a fit of convulsions. Then he screamed loudly and fainted again. At this, even Emperor Yongye was startled. Grand Preceptor Wu¡¯s old face frowned even tighter. ¡°Grand Preceptor, is Jinjin really possessed? Crown Princess Consort, how have you been taking care of Jinjin? He was fine, how could he be possessed?¡± Seeing this scene, Emperor Yongye was even more convinced that Dongfang Jin was possessed. He said, ¡°Jinjin is such a well-behaved child; how could he offend Sacrificial Officer Guo? It must be possession.¡± ¡°Reporting to the Emperor, Jinjin has always been well-behaved, and other than the Imperial Palace, Crown Prince Mansion, and Imperial Academy, he rarely goes elsewhere.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er suddenly thought of something. ¡°Jinjin just shouted ¡®a demon;¡¯ perhaps he encountered something unclean?¡± ¡°Crown Princess Consort, the Imperial Grandson¡¯s fate is special; ordinary demons cannot approach him. Moreover, yesterday, I checked the birthdate of those in the palace, and none conflict with the Royal Family.¡± Grand Preceptor Wu¡¯s meaning was profound as she glanced at Nalan Yan¡¯er. This Crown Princess Consort, known for her intelligence, was perhaps too clever for her own good. As they were speaking, suddenly the sky outside darkened, and Li Qing hurried in. ¡°Emperor, the sky has dramatically changed¡ªit¡¯s a Solar Eclipse; the townspeople are in panic.¡± Upon hearing this, Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression turned grave; he looked at Grand Preceptor Wu. ¡°Grand Preceptor, could you see clearly yesterday? Jinjin is possessed, continuously screaming ¡®a demon,¡¯ and now coinciding with the Solar Eclipse, there must indeed be a demon causing mischief.¡± ¡°Grand Preceptor Wu, I just remembered, in the rush yesterday, a few people were missed. A Spring Banquet was held recently, and many attended; here are some birthdate records for you to review.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er was secretly delighted. ¡°He¡± was right after all. The rare Solar Eclipse, indeed today. As long as Grand Preceptor Wu affirms that Feng Bailing is the demon, then this time, Feng Bailing must die. Grand Preceptor Wu took the birthdate records, glanced at them. Seeing this, her eyes slightly narrowed; she took out a tortoise shell and cast a divination, her expression grew even more solemn. She pulled out a page and asked. ¡°Whose birthdate is this?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er glanced and exclaimed with a soft ¡°Yi.¡± ¡°This is Princess Feng¡¯s birth date? During the Spring Banquet, she and Second Miss of Feng Mansion, Feng Xiangxue, both attended. The palace didn¡¯t have her birth date, and since Jinjin was unwell, I had someone ask for the birth dates of Princess Feng and her sister again.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er sneered inwardly; early in the morning, Aunt Xue and Feng Zhanlian had brought over this birth date. Nalan Yan¡¯er already knew about the marriage proposal from Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion. Dugu Wu had actually given an entire Princess¡¯ Mansion to Feng Bailing. Did he truly fall in love with that woman? Nalan Yan¡¯er felt as if ants were crawling in her heart, yet her face showed concern. ¡°Is there anything inappropriate about Princess Feng¡¯s birth date?¡± Emperor Yongye¡¯s expression was gloomy. Again, the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Yesterday, he also received news that Dugu Wu had given two betrothal gifts to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. One of which was exceedingly valuable. An entire Princess¡¯ Mansion, filled with various treasures, Dugu Wu¡¯s wealth over the years, aside from his military achievements, also seriously troubled him as the Emperor. Even the Hidden Guards under Emperor Yongye couldn¡¯t figure out how many properties Dugu Wu really owned. ¡°How old is Princess Feng this year?¡± Grand Preceptor Wu asked again. ¡°Nineteen, four years younger than me.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er hurriedly replied. Nineteen... She could only calculate Princess Feng¡¯s fate up to the age of nineteen. She couldn¡¯t derive any predictions from her birth date. Grand Preceptor Wu had seen his share of rare birth dates in his long life, the rarest belonged to Dugu Wu. He was destined to die young, supposed to perish at the age of three, but his birth date drastically changed when he turned three, turning him into the renowned Ninth Prince. This was the only person Grand Preceptor Wu had seen whose fate changed after birth. Unexpectedly, Feng Bailing¡¯s birth date was even stranger; up to nineteen, it was barely satisfactory, but past nineteen, it abruptly stopped, impossible to predict. This wouldn¡¯t normally matter. But the peculiarity was that, after Grand Preceptor Wu returned to Great Chu, he was asked by Emperor Yongye to predict the fate of the dynasty. The destiny of Great Chu was also impossible to predict. The divination was exactly the same as when he calculated Feng Bailing¡¯s birth date. This woman, she must be extraordinary! ¡°Your Majesty, I would like to visit the Princess¡¯ Mansion and meet Princess Feng,¡± the State Preceptor requested. ¡°Is she a demon? Had I known, I should have executed her.¡± Emperor Yongye hadn¡¯t expected Feng Bailing to be the mastermind behind the calamities in the palace and harming Jinjin. ¡°Your Majesty, please wait till I have met Princess Feng before making any decisions,¡± said the Old National Master, still uncertain whether Feng Bailing should be spared, as her fate seemed deeply intertwined with that of the Da Chu Country. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the Princess¡¯ Mansion.¡± Emperor Yongye waved his hand. ¡°Father Emperor, there is a solar eclipse outside, which could spell disaster. Jinjin is my flesh and blood, and I am protected by the Wenhua Seal, let me go instead.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er spoke with an air of righteousness. ¡°You have thought this through well, but you going alone may be inappropriate.¡± Emperor Yongye thought about his princes; if Feng Bailing truly was a demon, he would have her executed on the spot. However, during the solar eclipse, if his princes went, they might attract misfortune. ¡°Bring Xiao Jiu.¡± Emperor Yongye thought of Dongfang Mosheng, who was blind but functioned like any other person, making him the perfect representative of the Royal Family to deal with Feng Bailing. Chapter 122 - 122 124 The Malicious Old Woman ?Chapter 122: Chapter 124 The Malicious Old Woman Chapter 122: Chapter 124 The Malicious Old Woman During the solar eclipse, the room suddenly plunged into darkness. ¡°Someone! Where has everyone gone?¡± Inside the west wing of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Old Madam Feng was startled and terrified by the sudden darkness. She cursed loudly, but the solar eclipse had frightened everyone into hiding inside and not daring to come out. Then, a series of light footsteps approached. Lady Nan Feng walked in carrying a bowl of medicinal soup. ¡°Old Madam, it¡¯s the solar eclipse; everyone is half-scared to death, hiding inside and not coming out. Zhanlian and Aunt Xue have gone out and haven¡¯t come back yet.¡± She sat on the edge of Old Madam Feng¡¯s bed, cooled the medicinal soup, and fed it to her. ¡°It¡¯s only you who cares for me; everyone else doesn¡¯t care about whether I live or die. Especially that ingrate Feng Bailing! That wretched girl, she dared to let a dog bite me.¡± Old Madam Feng¡¯s heel had been bitten severely, causing intense pain. ¡°If I were you, Madam, I certainly wouldn¡¯t let Feng Bailing off. She doesn¡¯t care about your life, her whole family has moved into the Commandery Princess Mansion, enjoying the best of everything.¡± Upon hearing this, the old lady cursed. ¡°That wretched girl, let¡¯s see how long she can keep that up. That wild brat, she¡¯s not Prince Wu¡¯s true blood at all. If Prince Wu finds out, he¡¯ll surely divorce her!¡± ¡°Old Madam, what exactly is going on with Feng Bailing and her child?¡± Lady Nan Feng pretended to be surprised. She had just arrived at the Princess¡¯s Mansion and the servants were unclear about Feng Bailing¡¯s situation. It was difficult for her to ask others in Feng Mansion; only Old Madam Feng was easiest to talk to. Hearing Old Madam Feng finish speaking, Lady Nan Feng felt secretly delighted. ¡°If I were you, Madam, if I couldn¡¯t deal with the big ones, couldn¡¯t I at least deal with the small ones?¡± Lady Nan Feng spoke, whispering a few words into Old Madam Feng¡¯s ear. At the Princess¡¯ Mansion, when the solar eclipse occurred, Chun Liu was also startled. ¡°Miss, don¡¯t run around, I will go find some candles.¡± Seeing the pitch-black outside, and the servants panicked, it was entirely dark; she could only muster her courage to grope outside. Chun Liu stretched out her hand but couldn¡¯t see her fingers, after walking a few steps, she bumped into things several times until she bumped into a solid chest. ¡°Feng... Brother Feng?¡± Chun Liu was both shocked and delighted. ¡°Why are you bumping around like a fly, where is Xiao Li?¡± Feng Wan was tasked to protect Xiao Li. With Feng Wan¡¯s help, Chun Liu groped back, just as she was about to bump into a pillar; Feng Wan was quite frustrated. ¡°I¡¯ll hold your hand, you tell me which room. But when they reached the room, Feng Wan saw no sign of Feng Xiaoli. Half an hour ago, shortly after Chun Liu left the room, Feng Xiaoli, left alone in the room, felt very bored; she glanced outside with her wide eyes. It was dark, and Her Majesty and father hadn¡¯t come back. She looked around, and although it was pitch-black, as a child, she didn¡¯t feel scared; instead, she felt like she was playing hide-and-seek, murmuring to herself, ¡°Her Majesty and dad must be playing hide and seek with Xiao Li! Watch Xiao Li catch them!¡± She walked outside and didn¡¯t encounter any obstacles at all, directly heading towards the direction of the pigpen. ¡°Woo, the house is so big, it would be nice if Brother Xiaojin were here.¡± Feng Xiaoli walked awhile, her little legs growing sore. She rubbed her calves and took a few more steps, only to hear a cry. ¡°Somebody come quick, my leg is broken.¡± A feeble voice came. Xiao Li hesitated; she was a kind-hearted child, and hearing that it sounded like an elderly person, she made her way over. ¡°Old lady, are you alright?¡± As Feng Xiaoli approached the person, she suddenly felt something was off and stood there stunned. Seeing she wasn¡¯t coming closer, the person hurriedly spoke. The solar eclipse was gradually coming to an end, and dawn began to break. The person sitting on the ground was none other than Old Madam Feng. The words of Lady Nan Feng resonated deeply with her. Taking advantage of the solar eclipse and the unguarded gate of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Lady Nan Feng somehow had smuggled her into the Mansion. Seeing Feng Xiaoli, her old face filled with smiles. ¡°It¡¯s Xiaoli! I am your great-grandma, Xiaoli is a good child, come, great-grandma has delicious pastries here for you.¡± Seeing Xiaoli stand there in a daze, Old Madam Feng¡¯s eyes flashed with malevolence. Lady Nan was right, with how Feng Bailing treated her, she must teach Feng Xiaoli a lesson. Grabbing Feng Xiaoli, she could coerce Feng Bailing into handing over the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and all the gold, silver, and jewelry inside would belong to the Feng Family. Speaking, Old Madam Feng pulled out a piece of drugged walnut pastry, beckoning Feng Xiaoli. Having played for quite a while, Xiaoli was hungry by now. She shook her head. ¡°Her Majesty said not to eat things from bad people.¡± Saying this, she stepped back. Hearing, Old Madam Feng¡¯s eyes blazed with fury; she was strong, being from a farming background, and grabbed Feng Xiaoli¡¯s arm. ¡°You wild brat, when I give you something to eat, you eat! You and your cheap mother are both worthless, troublemakers.¡± Just as Feng Xiaoli opened her mouth to say something, Old Madam Feng grabbed the drugged piece of walnut pastry and stuffed it into her mouth. Chapter 123 - 123 125 Who is the Evil Spirit ?Chapter 123: Chapter 125 Who is the Evil Spirit Chapter 123: Chapter 125 Who is the Evil Spirit ¡°Whimper~¡± Feng Xiaoli struggled, but she was too young, no match for Old Madam Feng. Suddenly, a dark shadow pounced. A scream tore across the sky. The sound startled Feng Wan and Chun Liu, who were looking for Feng Xiaoli, and also alarmed Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu, who had just come out of the house. Then came Feng Xiaoli¡¯s cries, Feng Bailing¡¯s heart trembled, and Dugu Wu¡¯s face turned pale. ¡°Help, a wolf is attacking people!¡± Old Madam Feng was dreaming of taking over the Princess¡¯ Mansion when Hei Dian pounced on her. It was familiar with the layout of the Princess¡¯ Mansion and had sniffed out Feng Xiaoli¡¯s scent, witnessing the scene upon arrival. Old Madam Feng¡¯s eyesight was dim; when she finally saw clearly, she realized it was a gigantic wolf, much larger than any she had seen in the mountains. The Greedy Wolf King saw her forcing something into Feng Xiaoli¡¯s mouth, its wolfish eyes flashed with a crimson hue, and it bit off Old Madam Feng¡¯s right arm in one bite. The piece of walnut cake rolled to Dugu Wu¡¯s feet, Feng Bailing hurriedly picked up Feng Xiaoli, who lay limp in his arms, motionless. ¡°There¡¯s poison inside.¡± Dugu Wu held that piece of walnut cake, fury churning in his eyes, while Feng Wan grabbed Old Madam Feng, ready to twist her throat. ¡°Wait, who let you in?¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s gaze deepened, looking at Old Madam Feng¡¯s feet. She was bitten by a dog yesterday and her leg injury was serious. She couldn¡¯t have walked in the darkness for so long on her own, let alone prepare meticulously, waiting for Feng Xiaoli to take the bait. Old Madam Feng was scared out of her wits and had lost too much blood, her old face now devoid of color. ¡°Nan... Nan...¡± All of a sudden, Old Madam Feng convulsed, then spat out a mouthful of black blood. ¡°My lord, the Commandery Princess has died.¡± Feng Wan checked Old Madam Feng¡¯s pulse and shook his head. ¡°Someone had fed her poison, brought her here, and intended for her to poison Xiaoli.¡± Feng Bailing¡¯s brows furrowed tightly. The poison used wouldn¡¯t act immediately but was carefully calculated, requiring someone who had a deep understanding of poisons and was familiar to Old Madam Feng. ¡°This servant deserves death.¡± Chun Liu knelt on the ground, full of self-reproach. ¡°Get up, it¡¯s not Xiaoli¡¯s fault.¡± Feng Bailing scowled, reprimanding Feng Xiaoli. A moment ago, Feng Xiaoli was still sobbing, and the next, she stopped crying, pleading pitifully. ¡°Your Majesty, Xiaoli wants to eat walnut cake.¡± Feng Bailing was momentarily struck with silent laughter, then her expression turned solemnly serious. ¡°Mother told you not to speak rashly before, it was Mother¡¯s mistake. From now on, if you encounter something like today¡¯s event, you must protect yourself well.¡± Perhaps due to the relief of having her back, Feng Bailing was somewhat excessively indulgent towards Xiaoli. Being a mother, Feng Bailing knew that Xiaoli had a special ability with her mouth, yet she feared that using it too much would diminish her good fortune. But at this moment, she came to a realization; if it was an ability bestowed by heaven, it should be cultivated properly. At the very least, she should enable Xiaoli to control this power, rather than be burdened by it. Upon hearing this, Feng Xiaoli tilted her head in thought and then earnestly nodded. She had always used her mouth to ¡°scold¡± people, after all. This time, her mouth was blocked, and she couldn¡¯t ¡°scold¡± people. Feng Xiaoli decided she needed to practice scolding people in her mind more! Next time, she could defeat the ¡°bad guys¡± without speaking! Of course, this was a secret she wouldn¡¯t tell Her Majesty just yet. She¡¯d surprise her mother with a successful attempt~ Feng Xiaoli clenched her little fists secretly. ¡°Black Lightning, we owe you a great deal this time.¡± Feng Bailing gently patted Black Lightning¡¯s head. After saving Feng Xiaoli, Hei Dian had been standing by Feng Bailing¡¯s side. ¡°You know its origin, yet you¡¯re not afraid that it might betray you one day?¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes with heterochromia were deep and unfathomable. ¡°Its past doesn¡¯t matter. Sometimes animals can be more loyal than humans.¡± Feng Bailing put down Feng Xiaoli. Feng Xiaoli ran to Hei Dian¡¯s side, looked at Hei Dian¡¯s long legs, then looked at his own short legs, and seemed a bit downhearted. Hei Dian crouched down, and Feng Xiaoli immediately climbed up, his spirits lifted. A chubby little rice dumpling perched on the back of a majestic and fearsome giant wolf. The scene was simply too incongruous. Feng Wan just couldn¡¯t bear to watch. ¡°Hei Dian, let¡¯s go eat big chicken legs together.¡± Like the wind, Hei Dian sped away with Feng Xiaoli. ¡°Mi... Miss.¡± Chun Liu hurriedly chased after them, and Feng Wan, seeing Chun Liu about to bump into a pillar again, shook her head helplessly, picked up Chun Liu, and followed in pursuit. In the courtyard, only Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu were left. ¡°Thank you.¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s lips moved slightly, retaining the warmth from Feng Bailing in his arms. If Feng Bailing¡¯s hearing hadn¡¯t been so good, she might have thought it was a mosquito buzzing. Her eyes gleamed as she leaned her face close to Dugu Wu, close enough for him to clearly see her long, thick eyelashes and glittering eyes. Her face wasn¡¯t as lovely as her eyes, which were beautiful like a stretch of starry sky. ¡°Ninth Prince, I¡¯ve discovered a big secret of yours.¡± A flash of anger flickered through Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes. That segment of memory had been buried deep in his heart for years, unknown to anyone. If she dared to reveal anything about his mother, he would kill... Dugu Wu clenched his fist, his gaze drifting downward to Feng Bailing¡¯s slender neck and those two beautiful collarbones. This woman seemed quite well-proportioned everywhere except her face, recalling the touch from earlier... ¡°The secret is, you¡¯re afraid of the dark!¡± Feng Bailing burst into laughter. Dugu Wu snorted coldly, but his eyes softened slightly as he watched Feng Bailing. At this moment, outside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, a squad of soldiers and several horse carriages had just stopped. As the carriages halted, Crown Princess Consort Nalan, the Old National Master, and the Ninth Prince stepped down to see several people gathered in front of the Princess¡¯ gate. At the forefront was Feng Zhan Tian from the second branch of the Feng Mansion, who had cowered in his room trembling during the Solar Eclipse. Just now, Lady Nan Feng had reported that Old Madam Feng was missing, and upon hearing this, Feng Zhan Tian came out to look for her. Little did he know, after searching half the Princess¡¯ Mansion, there was still no sign of Old Madam Feng. ¡°My mother is missing; she¡¯s timid and dares not venture outside when it gets dark, let alone during a Solar Eclipse. She must have been snatched by someone.¡± Feng Zhan Tian was deliberately making a racket toward the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°It must be Dongfang Lianhua, that violent woman! And Feng Bailing, that vicious mother and daughter pair, they have always been prejudiced against my mother.¡± The carriages of Feng Zhanlian and Aunt Xue followed behind, and no sooner had they stepped down from the carriage than they heard this news, quivering with anger. Just yesterday, Dongfang Lianhua had set a dog on Old Madam Feng. ¡°State Preceptor, Feng Bailing is a menace; she brought the Solar Eclipse. Capture her quickly and rid the people of this scourge.¡± Feng Zhanlian, visibly agitated, knelt before the Old National Master, wiping away tears and kowtowing. ¡°Prince Consort Feng, as a scholar, you should know better than to make baseless allegations.¡± Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s voice was cold and clear, his words conveying his displeasure toward Feng Zhanlian. ¡°Then where could my mother be? She must have been...¡± Feng Zhanlian was about to argue when a scream was heard. Chapter 124 - 124 126 Kissed Under the Broad Daylight ?Chapter 124: Chapter 126: Kissed Under the Broad Daylight Chapter 124: Chapter 126: Kissed Under the Broad Daylight The voice halted abruptly, sounding somewhat familiar. ¡°It¡¯s Mother¡¯s voice.¡± Feng Zhanlian and Feng Zhan Tian, the brothers, exchanged glances, their faces drastically changing. In the crowd, Lady Nan Feng¡¯s eyes flickered with scheming. Both the old and the young must have already died. ¡°It¡¯s the Princess¡¯ Mansion, my mother has indeed been captured by them, Mother!¡± Feng Zhanlian¡¯s eyes were bloodshot with fury, he paid no heed to the others, and rushed towards the entrance of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°One by one, rubbish creatures, frightened by the solar eclipse, letting any tom, dick, or harry invade, send them all to forced labor.¡± In front of the Princess¡¯ Mansion, the soldiers were flush with shame. It was their first time witnessing a solar eclipse, they lost their composure, unable to lift their heads after being scolded by Feng Wan. Seeing Feng Zhanlian charge over, one of the guards kicked Feng Zhanlian down to the ground with a foot. ¡°Blind fool, do you think you can just barge into the Princess¡¯ Mansion?¡± Two other guards grabbed Feng Zhan Tian from each side, pinning his corpulent body to the ground and casually slapped him several times. ¡°Stop! Crown Princess Consort, Ninth Prince, please save my grandmother, the Princess¡¯ Mansion is using their power to bully, please stand up for Feng Mansion.¡± Feng Xiangxue and Feng Ruoyan, the sisters, also came out upon hearing the noise. Seeing their father beaten into such a state, both were terrified and turned pale. Feng Xiangxue was after all more resolute, she started to sob and moved forward to kneel. ¡°Xiangxue sister, no need for such formalities, very soon we will be family. Don¡¯t worry, your Ninth Brother will stand up for Feng Mansion.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s beautiful eyes slightly shifted, subtly scrutinizing the Old National Master beside her. It really seemed like Heaven itself wanted to help them, Feng Bailing indeed acted recklessly and even dared to oppress her own grandmother. The Old National Master despised those who lacked loyalty, filial piety, and righteousness, if Old Madam Feng really met with misfortune today, he would certainly despise Feng Bailing and her daughters. Given Emperor Yongye¡¯s respect for the Old National Master, the Princess¡¯ Mansion would have no chance for redemption, even her marriage arrangements could collapse. Upon hearing this, Feng Xiangxue quickly helped Feng Zhanlian up, softly whispering. ¡°Father, don¡¯t worry, Ninth Brother will stand up for us.¡± ¡°Thank you, Ninth Prince...¡± Feng Zhanlian was about to express his gratitude, but Dongfang Mosheng simply walked past him, approaching the guards. ¡°Guard brother, please report to Princess Yong¡¯an and Princess Shengping that the State Preceptor, Crown Princess Consort, and Dongfang Mosheng are here to visit.¡± Before the guards could respond, a person came out from inside. ¡°My Lord Prince has heard of the honorable guests¡¯ arrival, I, Feng Wan, have been awaiting you for a long time, please come inside.¡± Upon seeing Feng Wan, Nalan Yan¡¯er couldn¡¯t help but tense up. Ah Wu was here too. It was early in the morning, why was he here? Nalan Yan¡¯er felt extremely conflicted. ¡°I ask you, did you take away my mother?¡± Upon seeing Feng Wan, Feng Zhanlian angrily questioned. ¡°Are you speaking of that old woman who poisoned people? She tried to poison Miss, and our guard dogs have already mauled her to death. If you want to reclaim the body, do it quickly, or else the body will be thrown into the burial ground.¡± Feng Wan said with a cold laugh. Upon hearing this, Feng Zhanlian and Feng Zhan Tian almost fainted. Lady Nan Feng was also secretly alarmed, she did not expect Dugu Wu to be also in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. So you¡¯re saying that the little bastard didn¡¯t die? Lady Nan Feng couldn¡¯t help but feel somewhat disappointed. She originally wanted to kill Feng Xiaoli, then frame Feng Bailing, causing Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu to fall out. By then, she wouldn¡¯t need to act herself; Dugu Wu would have taken care of those three from the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Unfortunately, the plan failed. But, what can be avoided once, can¡¯t be avoided a second time. Lady Nan Feng thought to herself. ¡°State Preceptor, Crown Princess Consort, Ninth Prince, please stand up for us.¡± Feng Family wailed together. ¡°Let¡¯s go into the mansion and see.¡± Old National Master waved his hand, with Feng Wan leading the way. ¡°Ninth Prince, please, let us in. We need to vindicate my grandmother.¡± Feng Xiangxue cried with swollen eyes, but sadly her appearance, invisible to Dongfang Mosheng, was of no use to him. He remained noncommittal, while the people from Feng Mansion hurriedly followed. As they walked, although the day was still a bit gloomy due to the Solar Eclipse, the scenery inside the Princess¡¯ Mansion was still clearly visible. Every mountain, every stone, every garden, every house showed delicacy and luxury; a few people from Feng Mansion looked on, feeling envious, jealous, and resentful. All this should have been enjoyed by the Feng Mansion. After a long walk, everyone saw two guards carrying a corpse walking towards them. People from Feng Mansion cried their hearts out, surrounding the two guards and demanding an explanation from the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Old National Master, with his keen eyesight, immediately recognized the marks as those from wild animals, though not from dogs. ¡°How cruel.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er turned her head slightly, unable to bear looking at the old lady¡¯s dead body. ¡°Indeed very cruel. A strong and healthy village elderly woman deceived a naive little girl with poisoned pastries. If it hadn¡¯t been discovered early, the corpse you¡¯d see now would be our Miss Xiaojin.¡± Feng Wan glanced sideways at Nalan Yan¡¯er. He had thought that the Crown Princess Consort was both beautiful and clever, but today, perhaps because of the Solar Eclipse, he felt she was somewhat hypocritical? ¡°Prince and Princess Feng are just ahead, let us...¡± Feng Wan led a few people around a long corridor, saying that when outside guests arrive, they should be brought in; Feng Wan paused, almost in disbelief. People behind also froze suddenly. Not far away, Dugu Wu was embracing Feng Bailing, and the two were kissing passionately! Just a quarter of an hour earlier, Feng Bailing was teasing Dugu Wu. The sky was gradually clearing as the total solar eclipse passed. A tender look mixed with slight embarrassment flashed through Dugu Wu¡¯s heterochromic eyes. ¡°Shut up.¡± He must have been out of his mind at that moment to hold onto this woman. When she gently stroked his head, could he actually feel her tenderness? ¡°Are you getting angry? You¡¯d better be polite to me, or else I will tell Xiaojin and Xiaoli that the father they admire is a coward.¡± Feng Bailing certainly wouldn¡¯t miss this good opportunity to tease him when she saw Dugu Wu¡¯s embarrassed expression. Dugu Wu grabbed her hand and pulled Feng Bailing into his embrace. ¡°If you don¡¯t shut up, don¡¯t blame me for being rude.¡± ¡°I want to say...¡± Her chin was lifted suddenly, just as a breeze blew, lifting a corner of her scarf. Chapter 125 - 125 127 Commandery Princess You Have a ?Chapter 125: Chapter 127: Commandery Princess, You Have a Prosperous Husband Aura Chapter 125: Chapter 127: Commandery Princess, You Have a Prosperous Husband Aura The man¡¯s lips punished her with full force, both of them trembled upon contact, his lips feeling somewhat cool. Boom¡ª It felt as if something exploded in his mind, Dugu Wu felt a numbing sensation coursing through his body. He just wanted her to shut up, but unexpectedly, her lips were soft and sweet, even more tempting than the finest wine. Feng Bailing felt an overwhelming surge in her heart, how could she miss such an opportunity. Her tongue gently licked Dugu Wu¡¯s lips, his lips forming a straight line. This bastard, married to three Princess Consorts and has been so affectionate with Nalan Yan¡¯er for so long, yet his kissing skills are as poor as a virgin. Although she hasn¡¯t kissed anyone before, she has seen 22nd-century action movies from the island country. Feng Bailing gently bit Dugu Wu¡¯s lip. ¡°This woman, why does she bite like a dog!¡± Angered, Dugu Wu, out of spite, opened his mouth intending to bite back. But she slipped her tongue in suddenly, making Dugu Wu feel a heat surge below his abdomen; his Adam¡¯s apple rolled, his heterochromia eyes slightly red. At this moment, behind Dugu Wu, the Purple Gold Giant Dragon appeared. It looked at the entwined duo, its large dragon eyes widened with enjoyment, getting closer to Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu, watching contentedly. This lustful dragon! Still staring! Feng Bailing did want to enhance her seventh sense, but being stared at by a dragon made her feel uneasy. Knowing when to stop, she decided to continue next time. Just as Feng Bailing was about to withdraw her tongue, the man¡¯s breathing grew heavy. The hand around her waist tightened, and the initially passive man¡¯s tongue became aggressively invasive, his heterochromic eyes shining dimly, like a hungry and thirsty beast finding delicious food. Although Dugu Wu was inexperienced, he was a quick learner. With back and forth, he soon got the hang of it. His tongue chasing after hers, forcing her to retreat step by step, he charged forward aggressively, their lips now tightly pressed together, their breathing becoming more rapid. Feng Bailing felt her whole body weak as if her bones were pulled out, trying to push Dugu Wu away, but he wouldn¡¯t let go. ¡°You guys!¡± The exclamation brought their rationality back. Frightened, Feng Bailing realized there were quite a few people standing beside her. An unknown old woman, Dongfang Mosheng, and an angrily Nalan Yan¡¯er. She was about to speak but sensed something amiss. Feng Bailing looked sideways, the Purple Gold Giant Dragon suddenly soared into the sky, its dragon roar echoing thunderously. The others present showed no reaction, clearly not hearing the dragon roar. Only the old woman beside Dongfang Mosheng seemed to sense something, a hint of shock flashing in her eyes. Tears swirled in Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes, she bit her lips, unable to believe what she saw. How could Dugu Wu do this with Feng Bailing? He was supposed to love only her, yet he flirted with this woman. It must have been Feng Bailing who seduced him! If Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s gaze could kill, Feng Bailing would have been riddled with holes now. ¡°She¡¯s evil! She killed my mother!¡± Feng Zhanlian charged towards Feng Bailing, but after a few steps, he was stopped by the icy gaze of Dugu Wu. ¡°Slap him.¡± As soon as Dugu Wu spoke, Feng Wan stepped forward and slapped Feng Zhanlian to the ground. ¡°Old National Master graces us with her presence, may I know the purpose of your visit?¡± Dugu Wu bowed to the old woman, ignoring everyone else present. ¡°Prince Wu, long time no see, you¡¯ve really changed a lot.¡± The Old National Master chuckled. She noticed, Dugu Wu¡¯s change was because of the woman beside him. In the past decade, the fortune of Great Chu was transformed single-handedly by Dugu Wu. Will the future fortune of Da Chu Country rely on the one by his side? The Old National Master was about to speak. At this moment, there were exclamations from the crowd. The originally dim sky now had the sun returning to normal. But at the moment the solar eclipse disappeared, an unusual brilliance appeared around the sun. It was a circle of soft and beautiful rainbow light. ¡°A sun halo?¡± Feng Bailing looked up and caught sight of this scene. Solar eclipse encountering a sun halo, indeed a coincidence. Feng Bailing secretly marveled in his heart. The shock in the heart of the Old National Master was even greater; she suddenly turned to look at Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu. If one could say Dugu Wu was like the solar eclipse, ruthless and iron-blooded. Then this rare rainbow halo in the world was like the woman beside Dugu Wu. She was not as bright as Nalan Yan¡¯er, nor as charming as Feng Xiangxue; she stood there with a grace of her own. It¡¯s not that her destiny couldn¡¯t be calculated, but that her destiny complemented Dugu Wu¡¯s. After understanding everything, the Old National Master had a smile on her face. ¡°Princess¡¯ Mansion is full, her eyes clear and bright, nose high but not too sharp, and her earlobes thick, a born fortune to husband, family, and country.¡± This remark from the Old National Master stunned Nalan Yan¡¯er and others. Feng Bailing was still wearing a veil, her face unclear, how could she have the fortune to husband, family, and country, isn¡¯t this absurd? ¡°State Preceptor, she is unfilial and unrighteous, she killed my mother!¡± Feng Zhanlian felt indignant. Fortunate my foot. This wicked woman caused his family to be broken, losing both people and wealth; she is an evil spirit! ¡°It was good to kill her, just now I saw Old Madam Feng¡¯s facial features, dull in appearance, eyes small and nose crooked, with her around, the family discord, and disharmony between spouses. She was truly an evil spirit, fortunately, has been eliminated.¡± The Old National Master let out a sigh. ¡°Impossible, how could my mother be an evil spirit.¡± Feng Zhanlian was in disbelief, he turned to look at Nalan Yan¡¯er. Nalan Yan¡¯er squeezed out a smile, she also didn¡¯t expect, after the solar eclipse, a colorful halo appeared, an omen as auspicious as the emergence of dragons and phoenixes. The frustrated group left, feeling differently; the most annoyed were the Feng family and Nalan Yan¡¯er. As he exited the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Dongfang Mosheng¡¯s steps faltered. Man¡¯s calculations are no match for heaven¡¯s. ¡°Even heaven is helping them?¡± Dongfang Mosheng revealed a bitter smile, his mood difficult to calm for a long time. In the afternoon, the sunlight was just right, and people were coming and going on the road, the solar eclipse and sun halo vanished like a mirage. When Dugu Wu left, Feng Xiaoli was fussing to go to the Imperial Academy. ¡°Xiaoli, no more going to the Imperial Academy in the future. Daddy will find you a new teacher.¡± Dugu Wu patted Xiaoli on the head. He had more than once heard from Dugu Xiaojin mentioning ¡°Dachun¡±, Dongfang Jin had been competing with Dugu Xiaojin since childhood, snatching whatever Dugu Xiaojin liked. In other matters, Xiaojin always yielded, except for ¡°Dachun,¡± he would never yield. To avoid conflict between the two children, Xiaoli had to be compromised. Besides, places like the Imperial Academy, full of reckless men, were also not suitable for Xiaoli. ¡°But I miss Brother Xiaojin.¡± Feng Xiaoli pouted her lips. Chapter 126 - 126 128 The Comatose Crown Prince ?Chapter 126: Chapter 128: The Comatose Crown Prince Chapter 126: Chapter 128: The Comatose Crown Prince Feng Xiaoli also didn¡¯t like the Imperial Academy, but she liked Brother Xiaojin. ¡°Daddy promises you, soon you will be able to see Brother Xiaojin every day.¡± Dugu Wu planned to have Su Wang teach Xiao Li. Xiao Li, this child, is actually very smart, just a bit lazy. Su Wang possesses the talents of a top scorer and knows how to teach according to a student¡¯s abilities. He will make a good teacher. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you let me agree to go to the Crown Prince Mansion to treat Dongfang Jin?¡± Feng Bailing sent Xiaojin off to play with Hei Dian. Before the State Preceptor and the others left, Nalan Yan¡¯er looked worried and pleaded for Feng Bailing to go to the Crown Prince Mansion. Before Feng Bailing could speak, Dugu Wu had already refused on her behalf, using the excuse of Feng Bailing¡¯s superficial medical skills. ¡°I don¡¯t want Xiaojin to bear any unnecessary blame.¡± Feng Bailing had already inquired about what happened yesterday with Xiao Li. This Imperial Grandson, at such a young age, gave Xiaojin troubles everywhere, and a protective Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but feel angry. ¡°First you cure the Empress Dowager, and then Dongfang Jin. Next, it will be Dongfang Yu. Are you not satisfied with offending the Imperial Hospital enough? Wait until you¡¯re in trouble.¡± Dugu Wu eyed this woman who knew nothing of death with a slanted gaze. She still didn¡¯t know that the people from the Imperial Hospital had already borne grudges against her due to the Empress Dowager and Yang Shoucai¡¯s matter. Besides, she has yet to cured his ailment, and now she wants to treat another man? For treating illnesses, one must touch hands and then faces, and what if one needs to touch a thigh or something? Hmph, he would never agree. ¡°Dongfang Yu is a vegetable person, him, I¡¯m (temporarily) powerless to do anything.¡± Feng Bailing spread her hands; her medical skills were not omnipotent. Dongfang Yu is the Second Prince of Emperor Yongye, the husband of Nalan Yan¡¯er, and one of Feng Bailing¡¯s cousins. In Feng Bailing¡¯s memory, Dongfang Yu was the child everyone else talked about. Among the princes, Dongfang Yu stood out the most. He was the son of the Noble Princess Consort and was also the only one among the princes who had nearly condensed the Wuji Seal and with Nalan Yan¡¯er, who possesses the Wenhua Seal, could originally be said to be a perfect match of talented male and beautiful female. But on the eve of condensing the Wuji Seal, a major mishap occurred. During an outing, he abruptly fell into a demonic trance, tumbling from the horse, resulting in all his meridians being broken and internal organs damaged, lying unconscious for many years. Fortunately, he had a pair of excellent twins, which made him the Crown Prince. That lifetime, Feng Bailing, as Dongfang Yu¡¯s cousin, had also visited him, recalling his condition at that time, he was completely unconscious, even his eyeballs wouldn¡¯t turn, no doubt he had become a living dead. This dog of a man, Dugu Wu, would prefer Dongfang Yu never woke up, which would allow him to secretly interact with Nalan Yan¡¯er. She really didn¡¯t want to see Dugu Wu and Nalan Yan¡¯er sending each other amorous glances. If she brought Dongfang Yu into the medical cabin and figured out the specific cause of his coma, perhaps she really could cure him. But that must wait until the seventh sense had recovered to more than fifty percent. This time, after kissing Dugu Wu, the seventh sense has roughly recovered to about thirty percent. Feng Bailing thought to herself. ¡°A vegetable person?¡± Dugu Wu knitted his brows. Every time he faced Feng Bailing, he always felt that he himself was ignorant and uninformed. Soil that can be eaten? People who are plants? ¡°The meaning of a living dead; everyone says Nalan Yan¡¯er is fortunate, but I think she is quite unfortunate, her man and her children are both ill. Health triumphs over all wealth and standing.¡± Feng Bailing shook her head; Dugu Wu¡¯s words, however, reminded her. Earlier, Su Wang had mentioned that Xinglin Spring had recently faced harsh ostracism from peers. If it is merely due to the damage to its reputation, it shouldn¡¯t have gone so far. The only possibility might be that she had unwittingly offended the Imperial Hospital. Given that the Imperial Physicians and Imperial Doctors serving in the Imperial Hospital often have dealings with various medicine shops and clinics in Chu City, they just need to say a word to make it impossible for Xinglin Spring to establish itself in Chu City. ¡°Thank you for the reminder; this time, I was neglectful.¡± Feng Bailing thought to herself, it seems better to let Lu Yin handle the medical consultations in the future. After Dugu Wu¡¯s horse carriage left, Feng Bailing saw that it was getting late today and prepared to hurry to Yuxiu Academy. The matter of Xiao Junci has always weighed on Feng Bailing¡¯s heart; she had a premonition that this man would not give up easily, and she needed to think of countermeasures. The best method was still to consult with Lady Nan Shiu. Dugu Wu¡¯s horse carriage was on its way when it suddenly came to a stop. ¡°Master, the Crown Prince¡¯s horse carriage is coming.¡± The coachman spoke in a deep voice. Dugu Wu remained silent. The vermilion-wheeled horse carriage slowly drove up alongside his. The carriage curtain rolled up, revealing the swollen and haggard face of a woman. Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears as she looked at him. ¡°Ah Wu, you¡¯re so heartless, he¡¯s your child too.¡± ¡°I have already sent Lu Yin there.¡± Dugu Wu stated, and Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s face lit up with joy. ¡°So you really do care about Jinjin, he is the flesh of our flesh...¡± ¡°Lu Yin said he¡¯s not sick at all, just over-nourished, and there¡¯s not a hint of Pure Yang Qi in him; I¡¯m afraid he won¡¯t be able to condense the Wuji Seal in this lifetime. As for the Wenhua Seal, he lacks integrity and despises work...¡± Dugu Wu¡¯s icy gaze was like a cold bucket of water spilled over Nalan Yan¡¯er. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Jinjin? He¡¯s still a young boy; why would he lack Pure Yang Qi?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s face turned ashen white, and she even forgot to cry. After Dongfang Yu¡¯s incident, she devoted all her attention to the upbringing of their two children. Recently, to help Dongfang Jin study better and improve his memory, so he could read ten lines at a glance and remember everything he saw, indeed she sought various traditional remedies. Could it be that those remedies were problematic? Dongfang Jin was talented in both literature and martial arts, but now it appears that he would never be able to condense the Wuji Seal in his lifetime. ¡°Then you should ask yourself what you fed him. He damaged his kidney energy and disturbed his vital essence when he was just three years old.¡± Dugu Wu dropped the carriage curtain, and the two carriages passed by each other, leaving Nalan Yan¡¯er feeling empty inside. She felt that she and Dugu Wu were drifting further apart. ¡°Ah Wu, everything I¡¯ve done, it was all for us to be together. It¡¯s all Feng Bailing¡¯s fault; he seduced you. I absolutely cannot let her marry into Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er said bitterly. A thought struck her, and she spoke to the coachman ahead. ¡°Go to Qian Residence.¡± At Qian Residence, Dongfang Li was quite surprised by Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s sudden visit. ¡°What about the porter? Imperial Sister-in-law, haven¡¯t we agreed never to bring this up again?¡± Dongfang Li¡¯s face lengthened, his heart irked. He had arranged for a man to impersonate himself to get away from Feng Bailing. He was as relieved back then as he is displeased now. Say what you want about Feng Bailing being ugly, and that porter being a crude fellow, but how did their daughter turn out to be as adorable as a New Year painting doll, making anyone who sees her want to dote on her as their daughter. ¡°I know you didn¡¯t kill him. Hand him over to me, and I¡¯ll have my use for him.¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er, thinking of Feng Bailing¡¯s closeness with Dugu Wu today, felt a heart-wrenching pain. Since Feng Bailing appeared, Ah Wu¡¯s indifference towards her had grown increasingly. He even started to disregard Jinjin¡¯s life and death. ¡°Imperial Sister-in-law, it¡¯s not that I won¡¯t hand the man over to you, it¡¯s just that Ninth was in charge of this matter. If you want someone, you have to ask him for it.¡± Dongfang Li muttered. ¡°Brother Seven, you really know how to throw all the dirty water on me.¡± Dongfang Mosheng said with a smile, walking in. Chapter 127 - 127 129 The Third Layer of the First Aid Kit ?Chapter 127: Chapter 129: The Third Layer of the First Aid Kit Chapter 127: Chapter 129: The Third Layer of the First Aid Kit Upon the glimpse of Dongfang Mosheng, Nalan Yan¡¯er felt a momentary daze. It must be said¡ªamong Emperor Yongye¡¯s sons, Dongfang Mosheng was the most distinguished in appearance, vastly different in temperament from Dugu Wu. Dugu Wu was like a blazing sun capable of engulfing everything. Yet Dongfang Mosheng resembled a shroud of fog¡ªonce one fell into it, it was difficult to extricate oneself. ¡°Imperial Sister-in-law, to turn Feng Bailing against Dugu Wu, it need not be so troublesome. You just need to tell Dugu Wu one thing.¡± As Dongfang Mosheng spoke, he leaned forward, unlike other men, he did not carry the scent of sweat, only a faint ink fragrance, just like his persona. ¡°A secret decree?¡± Nalan Yan¡¯er¡¯s eyes lit up. The last thing Dugu Wu could tolerate was betrayal. If he knew that Feng Bailing was an informant Emperor Yongye had placed by his side... Nalan Yan¡¯er said joyously. ¡°Mosheng, you have truly helped me immensely.¡± Watching Nalan Yan¡¯er leave with a face full of joy, Dongfang Mosheng smiled. Help her? The next day, news came from Yuxiu Academy that the dean was looking for Feng Bailing. Feng Bailing went to Wangyue Pavilion. Before reaching Wangyue Pavilion, the flowing sound of a guqin playing the familiar Ten Sides Ambush reached her ears. ¡°Beautiful piece.¡± Feng Bailing ascended the stairs and heard applause; she paused, not expecting Lady Nan Xiu to have guests. ¡°Senior, your timing is perfect, I and the Old National Master were just discussing you.¡± The laughter of Lady Nan Xiu traveled through the air. On the seventh floor of Wangyue Pavilion, Lady Nan Xiu and the Old National Master were savoring tea. ¡°We meet again, Princess Feng.¡± The Old National Master greeted Feng Bailing with a warm smile; she didn¡¯t ask why the dean had summoned her. ¡°Old National Master, thank you for yesterday.¡± Feng Bailing knew well, when it came to the matter of killing Old Madam Feng, it was thanks to the Old National Master¡¯s words¡ª¡±She is a malevolent spirit¡±¡ªotherwise, merely for the murder of her own grandmother, both the reputation of Princess¡¯ Mansion and Feng Bailing would have been damaged. ¡°It is I who should thank you. Without you, my Wu Family would have been lost.¡± The Old National Master stood up with a smile. Seeing Feng Bailing¡¯s confused expression, Lady Nan Xiu interjected with a laugh. ¡°Were you the one who saved a pregnant woman a few days ago? Thanks to you, both mother and child were spared from danger. Coincidentally, that child is the Old National Master¡¯s grandson. The State Preceptor¡¯s family often wander far and wide, his daughter-in-law was about to give birth, and she set off for Chu City ahead of him. Unfortunately, she encountered some trouble on her way, and she heard that Xinglin Spring was a store owned by the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and she has wanted to express her gratitude to you and your mother.¡± Lady Nan Xiu explained and Feng Bailing suddenly realized. Lady Nan Xiu and the Old National Master knew each other for many years¡ªthe latter¡¯s divination skills were unmatched, earning Lady Nan Xiu¡¯s deep respect. ¡°Healing the world is my duty.¡± Seeing Feng Bailing modestly declining to take credit, the Old National Master admired her even more. Knowing something was amiss when Dongfang Jin feigned illness and Nalan Yan¡¯er took out a birth date for divination, the Old National Master had already sensed something off. However, the Old National Master avoided mentioning Feng Bailing¡¯s birth date and had not made a stance until he met her, thus smoothly exonerating her from the baseless accusation. ¡°The Old Master doesn¡¯t have much to offer, but here is a Records of the States, which contains observations made during my travels over these years. It¡¯s my gift of gratitude to Princess Feng.¡± With that, the Old National Master took out a box. Lady Nan Shiu was startled. To know, the Records of the States given by the Old National Master were no ordinary item; it was a very significant geographical document. In this era, unlike the 22nd century where Feng Bailing lives, global satellites could map out detailed topography; the geographic features and customs of all the great dynasties needed to be manually recorded and were mostly top secrets. Emperor Yongye had always wanted this data, but the Old National Master had never given it. Yet, she gave this document to Feng Bailing, whom she had only met a few times. Could it be, the Old National Master also knew that there was an unparalleled master behind Senior Feng? The Old National Master, Feng Bailing, and Lady Nan Shiu had a delightful conversation until dusk when the Old National Master finally got up to leave. Seeing that it was late, the matter concerning Xiao Junci had to be postponed to another day. With no choice, Feng Bailing also bid farewell to head back to the mansion. On the way back to the mansion, Feng Bailing opened the document given by the Old National Master. The document was a thick stack made of extremely soft silk fabric, detailing the current rulers of all the great dynasties beyond Great Chu, including the Beiqi Scroll. Beiqi Ancestor and Xiao Junci¡¯s names were also recorded; it was a pity that due to limited space, Feng Bailing only knew that Xiao Junci was the Regent King of Beiqi, his status being high among ministers, no less than that of Dugu Wu of Great Chu. As the horse carriage neared the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Bailing opened the first-aid box, preparing to put the Records of the States inside. When she opened the second layer of the box, from the third layer of the first-aid box, she suddenly heard a clicking sound. Hearing that sound, Feng Bailing was overjoyed. The seventh sense grew, and the third layer that had always been locked could finally be opened. Different from the first and second layers, when the third layer of the first-aid box was opened, it was completely empty; there was nothing inside. Feng Bailing was not surprised. With a smile on her lips, she closed the box. Before and after the lighting of the lamps, Feng Bailing returned to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Outside the mansion, Su Wang was waiting. ¡°Su Wang, is there a matter at Xinglin Spring?¡± Feng Bailing got off the horse carriage, and Su Wang hurriedly stepped forward and respectfully said. ¡°Reporting to the Commandery Princess, Prince Wu asked me to give lessons to Miss, and the lessons have been completed. I have some matters I need to report to the Commandery Princess.¡± ¡°Your mother always talks about you, haven¡¯t you gone to see her? You are good at everything, but a bit too rigid. Come in with me, let¡¯s have a quick meal before discussing matters.¡± Feng Bailing smiled as she invited Su Wang into the mansion while casually asking about Feng Xiaoli¡¯s lessons. ¡°Miss is very intelligent, the smartest child I have ever seen; she has a photographic memory, but her nature is a bit too lively.¡± Dugu Wu had arranged for Su Wang to be Feng Xiaoli¡¯s teacher, which Feng Bailing greatly approved of. A mother knows her daughter best, and Feng Bailing was very aware that Xiaoli was not suited for the rigid learning style of the Imperial Academy. ¡°In front of me, you don¡¯t have to be polite; I know she is like a little monkey, simply can¡¯t sit still. She is also especially good at reading expressions and acting pitiful.¡± Feng Bailing shook her head. If Dugu Xiaojin is a steel-straight young man, then Feng Xiaoli is an invincible little cannon. ¡°Miss is very kind-hearted, she is not interested in poetry, but shows more interest in astronomy, geography, and mathematics.¡± What troubled Su Wang was exactly this, as the daughters of noble families in Great Chu learn the set of six arts and eight elegances from Yuxiu Academy, most of which Xiaoli was not interested in. ¡°Let her learn what she loves, teach students in accordance with their aptitude; I also don¡¯t expect to make her into a Nalan Yan¡¯er.¡± Feng Bailing laughed. Teach students in accordance with their aptitude? This was the first time Su Wang had heard of a parent allowing their child to study based on their preferences. Yet, he found it made a lot of sense, and in his heart, a completely different new educational approach from the past took shape. Feng Bailing had not expected that her casual remark would plant a seed in Su Wang¡¯s heart. Later, Su Wang became the top scorer, and over the next several decades, he pushed for educational reform, abolishing the outdated educational model of Great Chu, cultivating batch after batch of talents, and he himself became recognized as the first educator of Great Chu. Chapter 128 - 128 130 Father and Her Majesty Flying Side by ?Chapter 128: Chapter 130: Father and Her Majesty, Flying Side by Side Chapter 128: Chapter 130: Father and Her Majesty, Flying Side by Side Of course, those are stories for another time. Upon entering the dining hall, a delicious aroma of food immediately greeted them. Feng Xiaoli, who was already waiting there like a little foodie, surprised everyone by the presence of Dugu Wu. Even Lu Yin was there? Dugu Wu shamelessly sat at the head of the table, acting as if he were the head of the family. Mrs. Su was busy with the food, and Feng Wan was also graciously allowed to join the meal. A pot of broth, which had been simmering for three hours in a copper pot over a vigorous red charcoal fire, was served along with various fresh vegetables, thinly sliced beef, glass noodles, and several dishes of sauces whose contents were unidentifiable. ¡°It smells wonderful, Bailing, you have such good food in your mansion, why didn¡¯t you invite me?¡± Just as they were about to start eating, a loud voice was heard as Ouyang Chenchen rushed in energetically. ¡°What kind of soup is this? It doesn¡¯t smell like ordinary chicken soup; it smells really good. Worthy of a master chef from Chuyue Tower, truly extraordinary. Ah Ling, you¡¯re amazing, to be able to poach a chef from Chuyue Tower.¡± Ouyang Chenchen had plans to open a restaurant in Chu City and had an eye on the master chef from Chuyue Tower, ready to poach him. Little did she know when she inquired, the master chef had already been poached and was now working at the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°The master chef from Chuyue Tower? No wonder I find the taste of the snacks at home somewhat familiar.¡± Feng Bailing was shocked, looking at Feng Wan who was studying the hotpot dipping sauces in her bowl. ¡°Chuyue Tower is also one of Dugu¡¯s properties.¡± Lu Yin, following Feng Xiaoli¡¯s example, took a slice of beef, swished it in the pot for a moment, and dipped it in the sauce before popping it into her mouth. The beef was tender and not greasy, with a rich flavor. Lu Yin, who had been eating meat for nearly twenty years, had never tasted such fresh and tender beef before. ¡°This broth is also very delicious; I¡¯ve never had this kind of soup at Chuyue Tower.¡± Ouyang Chenchen had already received a bowl and chopsticks from Mrs. Su, and after taking a sip, she squinted her eyes in satisfaction. Feng Bailing, who had returned from the 22nd century, had long wanted to improve the food in Great Chu. Unfortunately, earlier in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, it was difficult to change things due to the presence of the Feng Family; but now that she was independent in the Princess¡¯ Mansion, she started to alter her family¡¯s eating habits according to modern habits. Starting from giving Dongfang Lianhua and Feng Xiaoli milk to drink, to changing from two to three meals a day, after these adjustments, Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s complexion became rosier, and Feng Xiaoli also grew much taller. ¡°Originally it was, but not anymore. I¡¯ve already sold it.¡± Dugu Wu sipped the soup, which was very delicious. ¡°The Ministry of Revenue was in deficit, and I sued the gang from the Old Grand Preceptor, they somehow found out that I owned Chuyue Tower and claimed there were issues with its taxes. I simply decided to sell it.¡± He paused. ¡°Additionally, the tax affairs of the royal relatives¡¯ estates have also been thoroughly investigated, and the estates of the Princess¡¯ Mansion also had to pay the last five years of taxes.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll have Su Wang help calculate that later.¡± Dongfang Lianhua nodded. ¡°Grandmother, have a chicken drumstick.¡± ¡°Granny Su, have a chicken drumstick.¡± Feng Xiaoli, swinging leisurelly, picked up the food. Feng Xiaoli also picked a chicken wing for Dugu Wu and another for Feng Bailing. ¡°Daddy, Her Majesty, let¡¯s eat chicken wings together, this is called ¡®paired wings flying together.''¡± Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s eyes brightened. ¡°Bailing, so this is your and Prince Wu¡¯s daughter, she really looks like Prince Wu!¡± ¡°...¡± Lu Yin was somewhat speechless. Girl, you really need to check your eyesight; Feng Xiaoli is dainty and cute, nothing like Dugu¡¯s eternally debt-collecting face. Feng Xiaoli then picked a piece of beef for Su Wang, and added a piece of fish to Lu Yin¡¯s bowl. When it was Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s turn, she picked a slice of cucumber. Ouyang Chenchen was visibly disappointed, staring at that cucumber. ¡°I¡¯ve decided, I will also have daughters in the future, three to five of them, and each one must feed me chicken.¡± ¡°Miss Chenchen, with your physique, I am afraid you might not have daughters.¡± Lu Yin assessed Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s noticeable belly. Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s expression changed. ¡°Mr. Lu, how do you know I can¡¯t have daughters?¡± ¡°My parental instincts as a physician say, with your physique...¡± Lu Yin hadn¡¯t finished his sentence when Feng Xiaoli, leaning on Xiao Pang¡¯s hand, glanced at Lu Yin, then at Ouyang Chenchen, and blurted out a statement. ¡°Uncle Lu and Aunt Ouyang will have daughters.¡± Feng Wan suddenly burst out laughing, and soup sprayed everywhere. Lu Yin and Ouyang Chenchen¡¯s faces turned alternately red and white. Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but laugh wryly, rubbing Feng Xiaoli¡¯s head. She had recently been strict about controlling Feng Xiaoli¡¯s offhand remarks, but the little girl just couldn¡¯t keep her mouth shut. Fortunately, what she said was not particularly harmful; the side effects should be minimal. ¡°Originally, I came here to borrow a chef, but seeing it now, there¡¯s no need to borrow one. How about we partner together? You provide the staff, and I¡¯ll provide the capital, and together we¡¯ll run a restaurant.¡± Ouyang Chenchen spoke breezily. ¡°Xinglin Spring has just reopened not long ago, I plan to first reorganize Xinglin Spring.¡± Feng Bailing thought that with Chuyue Tower, opening a restaurant might not be profitable; she wasn¡¯t into making unprofitable deals. Mentioning Xinglin Spring, a worried look crossed Su Wang¡¯s face. Feng Bailing saw it and after the meal, while Ouyang Chenchen went to the kitchen to establish connections with officials from Great Chu and others went for a walk, Feng Bailing and Su Wang headed to the study. ¡°Commandery Princess, Xinglin Spring has encountered some problems. Just yesterday, I went to purchase medicinal herbs; the common herbs were fine, but when it came to some prestigious herbs, several Medicine Shops said they had no stock. It seems we are being boycotted by our peers,¡± said Su Wang with a light sigh. A thought struck Feng Bailing, recalling Dugu Wu¡¯s earlier warning. From Su Wang, Feng Bailing learned that the Medicine Shop was missing essential Chinese medicinal ingredients including lingzhi, ginseng, cordyceps, and snow lotus. ¡°Some commonly used medicinal herbs are also missing. If this continues, the Medicine Shop will lose its clients,¡± sighed Su Wang. ¡°Go back first. I remember we still have some medicinal herbs in the Princess¡¯ Mansion storeroom. I¡¯ll arrange to have them sent over in a couple of days.¡± Feng Bailing comforted Su Wang a few words then sent him back. After Su Wang left, Feng Bailing went to the storeroom. Inside the Princess¡¯ Mansion, other than Mrs. Su and Chun Liu, the other servants were all sent by Dugu Wu, including the guards. The person managing the Princess¡¯ Mansion¡¯s storeroom was an honest-looking man called Old Wei, who used to work as a doorman for Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion and was very capable, hence he was sent to the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°Princess Feng, this is the ledger for the storeroom, please take a look,¡± said Old Wei, who was lean and over fifty, showing great respect to Feng Bailing. ¡°I remember there are still some ginseng, lingzhi, and cordyceps in the storeroom?¡± ¡°Reporting to the Commandery Princess, the Prince gifted some when proposing, and some were moved from the Princess¡¯ Mansion. If the Princess and Commandery Princess need them, the Dongshan ginseng gifted by the Prince is top-notch.¡± Feng Bailing took the medicinal herbs and returned to her room. After securing the doors and windows, she opened the first-aid box and placed the newly acquired medicinal herbs in the third compartment. Having closed the lid, she heard a knock at the door. Opening it, ¡°Chun Liu¡± entered. He wiped his face, peeling off a thin human skin mask, his tone somewhat melancholic. ¡°I went to the Princess¡¯ Mansion to find you, only to learn that you had moved. Dugu Wu¡¯s moves are not small; has he been keeping you like a canary?¡± Gong Zhu was also shocked when entering the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Not only were there many guards, but he also saw an extremely fierce Wolf King. What was most astonishing was that little fat girl, Feng Xiaoli, was actually walking the Wolf King! He had just finished speaking when he grunted. Feng Bailing had already noticed his unstable breath as he entered the door and checked his pulse for him. ¡°How has your injury worsened?¡± She had been treating Gong Zhu¡¯s injuries for months; he had old injuries within him, and with acupuncture combined with Seventh Sense, the effect was good, and it was largely healed last time. After returning from his latest tasks and investigations, Gong Zhu had put in a lot of effort, but no matter how much he chased, he couldn¡¯t catch up to Dugu Wu. At the very least, he couldn¡¯t provide a sanctuary for Feng Bailing and the little fat girl amidst the chaos. Dugu Wu could. Gong Zhu suppressed the emerging strange emotions deep inside, feeling bitter in his heart. ¡°Xiao Junci of Beiqi has come to Great Chu, likely targeting you and your daughter. Although protected by Dugu Wu, you still need to be careful.¡± Gong Zhu warned. ¡°What do you know about Xiao Junci?¡± Feng Bailing had only briefly interacted with Xiao Junci, but had a strong impression of him. She must be wary of him. If he really aimed to harm her and her daughter, she would need to turn the tables and let them know that the Princess¡¯ Mansion is not to be trifled with. In the middle of the night, in Feng Xiaoli¡¯s room. A sharp whistle sounded. Chapter 129 - 129 131 Black Technology Genetic Modification ?Chapter 129: Chapter 131: Black Technology, Genetic Modification of Medicinal Materials Chapter 129: Chapter 131: Black Technology, Genetic Modification of Medicinal Materials Hei Dian, sprawled beside the bed, raised his head at the whistle of Xiao Junci. He hesitated for a moment. There was now a chubby little hand on his neck. Asleep, Feng Xiaoli had sweet dimples by her mouth and emitted a giggling laugh, her chubby arms tightly holding onto Hei Dian¡¯s neck refusing to let go. The faint luminescence in Hei Dian¡¯s eyes gradually dimmed, and he obediently stayed down on the bed, letting Feng Xiaoli embrace him. In the night, a man and a woman stood on the roof of the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Both were clad in attire suited for the night; the woman, voluptuous and with a delicate voice, was unmistakably Lady Nan Feng. ¡°Master, it seems that Greedy Wolf King really has betrayed us.¡± ¡°Humans might betray, but Greedy Wolf King will not.¡± The man¡¯s voice was even colder than the night wind. Xiao Junci, with hands behind his back, stood in the night. Ever since Greedy Wolf King was captured by a mysterious master, he had not returned. Xiao Junci thought he was trapped. But Lady Nan Feng insisted that Greedy Wolf King had been subdued by the Princess¡¯ Mansion. During the day, when Old Madam Feng¡¯s body was carried back, Lady Nan Feng noted that the wounds on her body were indeed left by Greedy Wolf King. ¡°I will handle the matter of Greedy Wolf King. Why haven¡¯t you made a move on Dongfang Lianhua and her daughters yet?¡± Xiao Junci¡¯s voice shifted, issuing a challenge. With the old emperor of Beiqi gravely ill, several princes desired to vie for the throne of Beiqi, but none could draw the Beiqi King¡¯s Sword. It was thought that after the old emperor¡¯s death, Xiao Junci, as the Regent King, could justly succeed the throne. Yet the old emperor, at this juncture, brought up his sister who had been married off to Great Chu, the mother of Dongfang Lianhua. The old emperor mentioned his lifelong indebtedness to his sister and wished to reunite with her offspring during his lifetime. ¡°This old fool just wants to meet the descendants of the Great Ancestor, to see if any among them can draw the King Sword. I volunteered to fetch them to strike first.¡± Coldness laced in Xiao Junci¡¯s voice. Having cooperated with Lady Nan Feng for many years and sensing the old emperor¡¯s intentions, he had immediately dispatched Lady Nan Feng to take action. ¡°I had planned to poison Dugu Wu and Princess Shengping¡¯s daughter, escalating the conflict between them to force Dugu Wu to break off the marriage, but unfortunately, it failed.¡± Lady Nan Feng said regretfully. She learned from Old Madam Feng that Dugu Wu was forced into marrying Feng Bailing only because Feng Bailing had his child. ¡°Dugu Wu¡¯s child? That¡¯s impossible. Dugu Wu could not have a child; his physique is such that any woman who consummates with him would be ¡®burnt¡¯ alive due to his pure Yang body.¡± Xiao Junci scoffed coldly. ¡°Don¡¯t rush to strike the Princess¡¯ Mansion. Help me think of a way to get Feng Xiangxue.¡± ¡°Feng Xiangxue? Have you taken a fancy to her? She¡¯s about to be married soon, to Dongfang Li, the son of Emperor Yongye.¡± Lady Nan Feng, surprised, knew Xiao Junci as a man of high taste; he had been involved with numerous women, including having seen Feng Xiangxue. Though her face was quite pretty, she was but an embroidered pillow. Compared to her, Lady Nan Feng thought Feng Bailing was more remarkable. Despite her reputedly very ugly appearance, Feng Bailing¡¯s methods, as Lady Nan Feng had witnessed, were no laughing matter. ¡°The woman I want won¡¯t be snatched away by anyone, not even by the son of Emperor Yongye, nor by the Heavenly Emperor himself. I intend to have her as mine before she is married.¡± Xiao Junci reminisced about the music he heard that day. Obtaining Feng Xiangxue, is like having an army of the Greedy Wolf King. ¡°What¡¯s so good about Feng Xiangxue? She¡¯s just a vain woman.¡± Lady Nan Feng scoffed softly. ¡°Jealous? Can¡¯t the old pretty face satisfy you?¡± Xiao Junci took Lady Nan Feng into his arms with a long reach, making advances on her. Dawn was just breaking. Feng Bailing got out of bed and opened the third compartment of the first aid kit, taking out several herbs. Over one night, the herbs Feng Bailing placed inside underwent a drastic change. Into it, Feng Bailing added ginseng, cordyceps, and lingzhi, one of the lingzhi was a betrothal gift from Dugu Wu, the rest were inferior herbs brought from the old Princess¡¯ Mansion by Feng Zhan Tian passed off as good. ¡°Except for the century-old ginseng whose quality cannot be further improved, the quality of the inferior ginseng, cordyceps, and lingzhi has leaped in quality, with genetic taming technology improving their quality several times.¡± In the 22nd century, genetic modification technique was very successful. Due to environmental reasons, many organisms needed to undergo genetic modification to survive, greatly shortening their growth periods. This technology is known as genetic taming technology. Genetic taming was widely used on plants. The third compartment of Feng Bailing¡¯s first aid kit was a mini genetic taming chamber. Seeds and plants, even some unhatched insect eggs and bird eggs could be placed inside, improving their quality overnight. Of course, the improvement wasn¡¯t free. ¡°Five ginseng plants, eight lingzhi mushrooms, one tael of cordyceps... missing one hundred taels.¡± Feng Bailing felt a bit pained. She knew that the first aid kit wouldn¡¯t be so kind-hearted to help with the transformation without cost. However, the quality of these transformed herbs far exceeded the value of one hundred taels. ¡°Next time I should use seeds instead, they are more in number, cost less, and perhaps I should have Su Wang look for some farmland and medicine farmers to specifically cultivate medicinal herbs.¡± Feng Bailing had a plan in her mind. Whether the Princess¡¯ Mansion given by Dugu Wu could become hers or not was still uncertain; she couldn¡¯t expose her medical skills too much right now, especially since the Imperial Hospital already targeted her. It¡¯s best to heal Dugu Wu¡¯s leg injury quickly and when her brother Feng Luochen returns, find a way to take her mother and leave. Before that, she needed to save up enough money. Early in the morning, Feng Bailing had Chun Liu pass the message to Ouyang to go to Xinglin Spring. ¡°These are all century-old wild ginseng, the lingzhi is of good quality too, and the cordyceps are much better than what we usually purchase. Princess, where did your friend find such fine herbs?¡± Su Wang didn¡¯t expect that the issue that troubled him for days was just informed to Feng Bailing and she had already delivered the herbs early in the morning. ¡°She is a hermit, just call her Medical Buddha. Only three types of herbs here, I¡¯ll bring you some other urgently needed herbs in a couple of days. You find out if there are any available lands and medicine farmers who can plant medicinal herbs.¡± Feng Bailing smiled. After leaving Xinglin Spring, Feng Bailing turned into a small alley, and when she reappeared, she had transformed into a 17-or-18-year-old woman with an ordinary face, not tall nose, small eyes, and slightly thin lips. Before Gong Zhu left last night, Feng Bailing had asked him for a human skin mask. Based on Chun Liu¡¯s features, the human skin mask was further modified, and with it, Feng Bailing entered a medicine shop. After visiting several medicine shops, Feng Bailing bought hundreds of pounds of expired valuable herbs. She then tossed all these herbs into the first aid kit. In one day or one night, the first aid kit could domesticate about fifty pounds of precious herbs, which was enough to meet the recent needs of Xinglin Spring. Walking through the bustling morning market, Feng Bailing then headed to the seed repository in Chu City. Chapter 130 - 130 132 The Feeling of Having Someone to Back ?Chapter 130: Chapter 132: The Feeling of Having Someone to Back You Up Is Really Nice Chapter 130: Chapter 132: The Feeling of Having Someone to Back You Up Is Really Nice Although it was still morning, there was already a long line waiting at the entrance of the seed agency. The Great Chu seed agency, affiliated with the Ministry of Revenue, managed all of Great Chu¡¯s agriculture. Local farmers around Chu City had to go through the seed agency for harvesting grains and paying taxes in autumn and for purchasing seeds in spring. Moreover, seeds for medicinal herbs, flowers, and fruits were also bought from the seed agency. Today, Feng Bailing came to purchase fruit and vegetable seeds. Dugu Wu had purchased the Princess¡¯ Mansion, which was filled with various precious flowers and trees, but in Feng Bailing¡¯s view, these were more for show than practical use. In the 22nd century, with environmental deterioration, the ability to grow sufficient food and fruits was the primary concern for humanity. She planned to remodel the Princess¡¯ Mansion to plant some genetically modified foods. ¡°Officials and nobility line up on the left, commoners on the right, line up properly, no jumping the queue.¡± It wasn¡¯t until 9 a.m. that a few agricultural officers arrived. They drove the group of raggedly dressed farmers to one side like herding animals, but when they saw the servants of the officials and nobility, they ordered tea and water for them without any courtesy. Feng Bailing was in line among the common people, and with it being the busy farming season, hundreds of villagers from around Chu City had come, forming a long queue. By 11 a.m., it was finally the turn of the farmer woman in front of Feng Bailing. She was probably around fifty, with a yellowish, thin face, and her back was somewhat hunched. Her coarse clothing was full of patches. ¡°Sir, I am a farmer from Qi Village, and I would like to purchase seeds on credit for spring planting.¡± The moment the farmer woman spoke, Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but take another look at her. Qi Village was Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s fief. It was said that Qi Village suffered a locust plague last year, with not a single grain harvested, and the farmers could not even feed themselves. Fortunately, in the past few years, the taxes for the fiefs of the royal family had been exempted under various pretexts. Dongfang Lianhua, being soft-hearted, did not collect the taxes either, but yesterday during dinner, Dugu Wu mentioned that the Ministry of Revenue intended to collect the past five years¡¯ fief taxes? ¡°Qi Village? You¡¯re here to buy seeds on credit again, you didn¡¯t pay for last year¡¯s seeds, and now you want to freeload again, get out, get out!¡± The agricultural officer looked at her with disdain. In these chaotic times, there were natural and man-made disasters everywhere, and everyone seemed to be buying on credit, which couldn¡¯t be allowed. ¡°My lord, please, we had a locust disaster in our village last year and harvested nothing. Just this once, if we plant grains this year, we will definitely repay. If we don¡¯t plant grains, the people of Qi Village will starve to death.¡± The farmer woman hurriedly knelt down, knocking her head on the ground several times until her forehead was bleeding. ¡°Take her away. You don¡¯t have money, you deserve to starve.¡± The agricultural officer showed an impatient look, and several fierce-looking soldiers were about to drag the farmer woman away. ¡°Wait.¡± A sharp reprimand came. Feng Bailing helped the farmer woman up and coldly swept her eyes over the soldiers and the agricultural officer. ¡°The Law of Great Chu clearly stipulates that if farmers suffer from disasters, they are exempt from taxes, and they can buy seeds on credit for up to three years. As an agricultural officer, do you not even understand the basic Law of Great Chu?¡± The agricultural officer was stumped. Was there such a clause in the Law of Great Chu? Looking at the woman who spoke, dressed in coarse clothing, clearly not from a family of officials. He sneered. ¡°Who is this blind fool daring to meddle in government affairs? Come, drag her out and slap her thirty times.¡± Absurd! Such a contemptuous official. Fury surged within Feng Bailing as she looked at the farmer woman lying on the ground. As the soldiers reached out to grab her, she swept her leg, knocking the nearest soldier to the ground, then used a grappling move to subdue another approaching soldier. ¡°This woman dares to strike and injure, arrest her and the farmer woman and send them for official investigation.¡± ¡°Stop.¡± A man¡¯s cold voice, like thunder striking, made the agricultural officer turn around only to tremble with fright at the knees. Not far away, Dugu Wu and several officials from the Ministry of Revenue walked over. He slightly squinted his eyes, cold light emanating from them. ¡°Prince Wu.¡± The agricultural officer and the soldiers all knelt down, trembling slightly. Feng Bailing saw Dugu Wu. How did he get here? But as soon as Dugu Wu arrived, Feng Bailing felt her spine straighten. She quickly helped the peasant woman to her feet. ¡°She¡¯s right, as an official of Great Chu, how do you not understand the regulations of the Great Chu?¡± Simply standing there, Dugu Wu made one shudder without even the cold, not to mention when he scolded someone, the official kowtowed repeatedly. ¡°Prince Wu, you are unaware, Qi Village has had poor harvests every year and hasn¡¯t paid the taxes. The Princess¡¯ Mansion informed us, if the peasants come to borrow grain, we are not to provide them with seeds.¡± The agricultural officer was only an eighth-rank official, but he couldn¡¯t afford to offend the Princess¡¯ Mansion, and moreover, he had accepted favors from it. Upon hearing this, Feng Bailing¡¯s frown deepened. This matter, needless to say, must have been the doing of Feng Zhan Tian or Aunt Xue. Previously, when discussing taxes, Dongfang Lianhua said to sympathize with the peasants, thus exempting them from taxes. By doing so, those two couldn¡¯t amass wealth. ¡°However, to my knowledge, Princess Yong¡¯an is kind-hearted and would not do such harsh things. Surely someone is impersonating the Princess¡¯ Mansion. I will investigate it myself and provide the grain.¡± With a cold glance from Dugu Wu, the agricultural officer had no choice but to order for a hundred pounds of seed grain to be handed to the peasant woman. ¡°As a court official who does not study the law and bullies others with your power, drag him out and administer thirty beatings.¡± No sooner had Dugu Wu spoken than the agricultural officer¡¯s knees buckled in fright, and he was dragged out by the soldiers. Not far away, bursts of his cries could be heard. ¡°Thank you, noble lord, for saving the lives of everyone in Qi Village.¡± The peasant woman hurriedly tried to kowtow to Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu. ¡°Big sister, you¡¯re too polite. You should thank this official, I am merely a passerby.¡± Although Feng Bailing was somewhat surprised by Dugu Wu¡¯s appearance here, her face remained composed. After disguising herself, she had slightly adjusted her accent and voice, and having altered her appearance, she wasn¡¯t afraid of Dugu recognizing her. ¡°You¡¯re not from Da Chu, yet you are quite familiar with the laws of the Great Chu.¡± He had spent years in military campaigns and knew best that food is paramount for both civilians and the military. Hearing that last year there was an ongoing shortfall in various places and the spring plowing was about to start, as a new official, he had to manage these agricultural affairs. ¡°I am unskilled, my family trades abroad, traveling among various countries and understanding some of each country¡¯s laws,¡± said Feng Bailing with a smile. Dugu Wu then casually asked a few questions about national customs. Feng Bailing had just read the Records of the States and answered smoothly, with no discrepancies. This woman is no ordinary person; though young, she is exceedingly clever and well-informed, and showed no fear even before me, thought Dugu Wu to himself. He had killed countless people, his presence filled with menace, which normally terrified ordinary people. The only one who was not afraid of him upon their first encounter was probably just Feng Bailing. Dugu Wu shook his head. Lately, why did he keep thinking of that woman? ¡°You return first and tell the villagers that if they face any grievances again, they may go to the Princess¡¯ Mansion in East City Lane.¡± Dugu Wu believed that, given Feng Bailing¡¯s disposition, she definitely would not mistreat these peasants. After profuse thanks from the peasant woman, she was about to leave when Feng Bailing stopped her. ¡°Big mother, let me check your seed grain.¡± Dugu Wu frowned slightly, and the peasant woman also hesitated before opening the hundred pounds of seed grain. As soon as it was opened, both Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu¡¯s expressions changed, and the peasant woman, terrified, sat down on the ground, tears streaming down her face. Chapter 131: 133 The Other Side of Dugu Wu Chapter 131: Chapter 133 The Other Side of Dugu Wu Dugu Wu whispered softly, ¡°Damn servant, deserves to die.¡± In a hundred jin of grain seeds, it was almost always adulterated with sand and stones, and the remaining seeds were also molded and old. If these were taken back and sown, even without any natural disasters and with favorable weather, the harvest would still fall short. Indeed, that was the case. Feng Bailing gave a bitter smile. In that life, when she begged on the streets, she had witnessed a tragedy. The villagers of a village, due to consistent poor harvests and inability to pay taxes, went to inform the officials; but the officials protected one another, leaving the villagers with nothing but a beating and no follow-up. In desperation, the villagers, armed with firewood knives, killed an agricultural officer of the seed institution, and several villagers wrote a blood letter to appeal for justice before they hanged themselves on the street. The incident caused quite a stir, and the one who later came forward to investigate the case was also Dugu Wu. Though notorious for his brutality, Dugu Wu was, undeniably, a good official. In one breath, Dugu Wu executed more than ten agricultural officers from the seed institution, and the case eventually even implicated the Eldest Prince... Dugu Wu later discovered there was a problem with the seeds. But that was all three years later, and not long after, Feng Bailing starved to death on the streets. What became of the Eldest Prince in the end, Feng Bailing no longer knew. ¡°How do you know there¡¯s something wrong with the seeds?¡± Dugu Wu glanced at Feng Bailing. ¡°My lord, you don¡¯t understand the ways of officials. There are few officials who are not cunning. I¡¯ve been out and about, I know that commoners who offend officials are subject to various kinds of retaliation. It¡¯s no surprise that you, a high-ranking official, are unaware.¡± Feng Bailing smiled, but through her words, a sense of vicissitude permeated. When she was begging on the street, she watched Chun Liu being beaten to death, she saw countless officials treat commoners worse than pigs and dogs. Such is the cold reality of the world; this is Great Chu. After three years of begging on the streets and adopting the 22nd-century view of equality for all, Feng Bailing¡¯s mannerisms toward others were no longer the same as before. Dugu Wu couldn¡¯t help but give Feng Bailing another look; the woman, though ordinary in appearance, had an indescribable charm. ¡°Madam, go to Prince Shun¡¯s Mansion and find Housekeeper Zhu, tell him Dugu Wu has given you a hundred jin of grain seeds for you to take back. After the harvest, return it to the Prince Mansion.¡± Once Dugu Wu had finished speaking, Feng Bailing couldn¡¯t help but glance sideways. Wow, even a dog of a man shows mercy occasionally. Dugu Wu took another look at Feng Bailing. ¡°About today¡¯s matter, may I ask for the lady¡¯s esteemed name?¡± ¡°I¡¯m called Xiao Bai, thank you for helping me out just now.¡± After saying this, Feng Bailing grabbed Dugu Wu¡¯s hand and squeezed it firmly. This sensation? Strangely familiar. Dugu Wu¡¯s eyes sharpened. ¡°This is called a handshake, a courtesy from my hometown. When people meet, we shake hands to show respect.¡± Feng Bailing held the handshake with natural grace for a while before letting go of Dugu Wu¡¯s hand. To open the first aid kit would consume the seventh sense, and Du Gu¡¯s Great Replenishing Pill shouldn¡¯t be wasted. Seeing her composed demeanor, any puzzlement that might have arisen in Dugu Wu¡¯s mind dissipated. Having traveled and fought in many places, he had seen much and understood that different lands and dynasties had varying folk customs. Some unenlightened places even used their wives to entertain foreign guests. ¡°Please keep today¡¯s matter confidential, madam. I need to investigate further. I am Dugu Wu, newly appointed official of the Ministry of Revenue.¡± Feng Bailing thought to herself, it seemed that the events due three years later were about to happen sooner. That was good; it might prevent the villagers from committing suicide. After exchanging a few more pleasantries with Dugu Wu, Feng Bailing saw an official who claimed to be the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Revenue rush over in haste. ¡°I won¡¯t delay your work any longer, we¡¯ll meet again.¡± Feng Bailing clasped her hands in farewell and returned to the seed institution. Dugu Wu watched Feng Bailing, still in line, and fell into deep thought. Earlier, after that agricultural officer had been beaten by Dugu Wu, the other officers from the seed institutions had heard that Dugu Wu, the formidable Minister of Revenue, had arrived. Even amongst civil servants, Dugu Wu¡¯s reputation was formidable; the agricultural officers feared they would be next and dared not mistreat the farmers anymore. In the afternoon, it was Feng Bailing¡¯s turn to buy seeds. ¡°I¡¯d like to buy some fruit, vegetable, and medicinal herb seeds.¡± Feng Bailing stated her purpose. ¡°We have ginseng, Lingzhi, and Polygonum multiflorum seeds in the seed institution, but germination is not guaranteed. There were no ginseng seeds originally, but you are in luck; we just received a batch this morning. There¡¯s a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, each with a different price.¡± The agricultural officer said while taking out several bags of seeds. Feng Bailing spent twenty taels and bought about a dozen types of medicinal herbs and over ten types of fruit and vegetable seeds. Just as she was about to leave the seed institution, she saw a man in brocade clothes walk in. The man had a pale face without a beard and no Adam¡¯s apple, looking somewhat familiar. As soon as they saw the person, the farmers hurried forward with a smile. ¡°Mr. Zhao... Mr. Zhao, have you come to get flower seeds?¡± Feng Bailing gave the man another look, a memory coming to mind. Wasn¡¯t that Mr. Zhao from the Empress¡¯ side, favored by the Empress, and although not yet thirty years old, considered the second-most powerful in the palace? What was he doing at the seed institution? Chapter 132: 134: Natural Disaster? Man-made Disaster? Chapter 132: Chapter 134: Natural Disaster? Man-made Disaster? The purchasing in the palace is managed by specialized personnel from the sixth department, so why would Mr. Zhao go out? Feng Bailing, being cautious, pretended to check the seeds and did not leave. ¡°What about those rare flower seeds I asked you to buy?¡± Mr. Zhao lowered his voice and asked. The agricultural officer hurriedly took out several packets of seeds. ¡°There¡¯s no problem with the quality this time, right? The last batch all died, and Her Majesty slapped me ten times because of it.¡± Mr. Zhao frowned and scolded, pointing at the agricultural officer¡¯s nose. Feng Bailing, listening from the side, thought to himself that Empress Xiao, who was known for her generosity in public, why would she blame a capable eunuch over some ungerminated seeds? Unless, those seeds were very important. ¡°Mr. Zhao, not all seeds can germinate, it also depends on the climate and soil.¡± The agricultural officer said with a bitter face. Mr. Zhao snorted, dropped a packet of silver, and turned to leave. He hadn¡¯t walked far when he bumped into someone. Several packets of seeds fell to the ground, scattering everywhere. ¡°Clumsy fool.¡± Mr. Zhao cursed loudly. ¡°Sorry, sorry, sir, I¡¯m all thumbs. I¡¯ll pick them up for you right now. I promise none will be missing.¡± Feng Bailing bowed her head, gathered the scattered seeds from the ground, nodded and apologized repeatedly. Mr. Zhao glanced at the seeds, saw there were no issues, then glared at Feng Bailing before he left. After leaving the seed shop, Feng Bailing shook her sleeve and several seeds fell out. During the commotion, she had hidden several seeds from Mr. Zhao¡¯s pocket in her sleeve. ¡°They look like ordinary seeds, we will only know what they are when they grow.¡± Checking the time, Feng Bailing took out some medicinal materials from the third layer of the emergency box. Just like last night, the genetically tamed expired medicinal materials transformed, even the withered antler became plump and fragrant, each medicinal material was of the finest quality. Feng Bailing returned to the Princess¡¯ Mansion, stored the medicinal materials, kept some in the warehouse, and planned to send the rest to Xinglin Spring in the morning. This taming cost her one thousand silver taels, and Feng Bailing felt the pinch. She threw all kinds of seeds¡ªlike cucumber, potato, carrot, tomato, sweet potato¡ªbought from the seed shop, along with the newly purchased ginseng, Polygonum multiflorum, and Lingzhi, as well as the flower seeds obtained from Mr. Zhao, all into the third layer of the emergency box. In the evening, Dugu Wu returned to the Prince Mansion, his expression dark. The morning encounter in Qi Village and Xiao Bai¡¯s words made him realize the depths within the Ministry of Revenue. He sought out an Assistant Minister from the Ministry of Revenue to investigate the grain planting matter. The Assistant Minister hesitated and could not clarify things, and finally claimed that the grain planting had been managed by the Eldest Prince in recent years, suggesting to consult him. This was clearly an excuse. At that moment, Feng Wan arrived to report, informing Dugu Wu of the day¡¯s events in the Princess¡¯ Mansion. ¡°The Commandery Princess went out during the day and did not allow her subordinates to follow. I intended to follow secretly but was entangled by Xiao Li and Hei Dian.¡± Feng Wan had a bitter expression on his face. After the Greedy Wolf King arrived at the Princess¡¯ Mansion, Feng Xiaoli made him memorize the scent of everyone in the mansion, and chase out any strangers he encountered. He was about to follow Feng Bailing when Feng Xiaoli set Hei Dian on him, making him run all over the Princess¡¯ Mansion. By the time he came to his senses, the Commandery Princess had already slipped out of the mansion. ¡°With the Greedy Wolf King around, you can¡¯t hide either. On normal days when you protect Feng Bailing, if she does not wish you to follow, then don¡¯t follow.¡± Dugu Wu had earlier sent someone to watch over the Princess¡¯ Mansion, worried about any mishaps befalling Feng Bailing, but after the incident with Xiao Junci, given that she had the protection of a master, he let it be as a face-saving gesture for the master. ¡°This afternoon, as soon as Princess Feng returned, she ordered people to flatten the rockeries, pavilions, and a batch of flowers and trees in the east courtyard.¡± Feng Wan hesitated for a moment, then continued to report. Princess Feng said she missed the taste of the fruits and vegetables grown by the farmers near the Other Manor, and wanted to plant some fruits, vegetables, and some herbs. Dongfang Lianhua and Feng Xiaoli both agreed, it¡¯s just a pity for those well-maintained precious flowers and plants and those rockeries made of expensive lake rocks. ¡°For such trivial matters, let her handle them as she wishes, there¡¯s no need to report them in the future.¡± Dugu Wu rubbed his temples, he had never expected Feng Bailing to act like a normal woman; even if she dismantled the Princess¡¯ Mansion, he wouldn¡¯t find it odd. Just as they were talking, Housekeeper Zhu arrived and started speaking. ¡°Sir, this afternoon a woman claiming to be from Qi Village borrowed a hundred catties of grain. Forgive my presumption, although she is a farmer under the Princess¡¯ Mansion, lending grain to Qi Village might mean it¡¯ll never be returned.¡± ¡°Continue speaking.¡± For Dugu Wu, the borrowing of grain by the peasant woman was merely a minor episode, and he had not taken it seriously. But from Housekeeper Zhu¡¯s tone, there seemed to be more to the story. ¡°My Lord, not to conceal from you, one of my distant relatives is a resident of Qi Village. They just came to seek refuge with me a couple of days ago, wanting something to eat. Qi Village¡¯s soil is inherently infertile and plagues of locusts occur every year. I heard that previously the landlords even considered selling their land. After hearing this, the young and strong people in the village secretly slipped away to make a living, leaving only the old, the weak, women, and children behind. Still, they are required to pay taxes, and people there are barely surviving. If this continues, there might be loss of lives.¡± Housekeeper Zhu sighed. Chu City is prosperous, but who could imagine that not far from Chu City, only dozens of miles away, the people of Qi Village live such hard lives. ¡°Didn¡¯t Princess Yong¡¯an waive their taxes?¡± Dugu Wu was quite surprised. ¡°My relative said the taxes are as usual. At the end of the year, Feng Zhan Tian from the Feng Mansion even went there to press for them, saying if they couldn¡¯t pay this year, they would have to sell their lands.¡± Housekeeper Zhu also came to know afterward that Qi Village was Dongfang Lianhua¡¯s feudal estate. Feudal estates are, in principle, not to be sold, but many nobles privately transfer them, constructing other courts and villas, and thereby trading the farmers on the estates as well. Over the years, Emperor Yongye has been focusing on border wars, paying no heed to these acts among the nobility. ¡°Qi Village was granted to Princess Yong¡¯an by the late Emperor, who adored Princess Yong¡¯an immensely, so why would he grant her a barren land. Feng Wan, go back and report this matter to Feng Bailing, tell her I won¡¯t interfere, let her handle it properly. With the wedding approaching, don¡¯t let this cause any trouble.¡± Dugu Wu and Feng Bailing have not yet married, and he still has to deal with affairs at the Ministry of Revenue, leaving it to Feng Bailing to manage is best. Just when Dugu Wu received the news, Feng Bailing also found Dongfang Lianhua and inquired about the situation in Qi Village. ¡°They suffered disaster; last year there was poor yield. In previous years, this matter was managed by Aunt Xue and Feng Zhan Tian, and seeing that it¡¯s almost time for spring ploughing, I was planning to find some time to visit Qi Village.¡± Dongfang Lianhua had earlier heard from Mrs. Su that a few days ago, some villagers had found the Princess¡¯ Mansion but were turned away by the guards before they could even enter. Chu City and Qi Village are not that close but not too far either, a few dozen miles apart, yet she had never visited. Feng Bailing gave a few instructions and did not intervene; she had not expected that a small village would soon trigger such a big dispute.