《Crossing the Crowd to Chase Love》


 Chapter 1 - 3P

    She was in a trance. Her back was being held by one man who used a pair of strong arms to support her buttocks so she was in a posture similar to a child urinating. He brought her in front of another man¡­And the other man grabbed her slender legs, encircling them around his strong waist before leaning forward¡­


    What kind of situation is this? I¡¯m dreaming, this has to be a dream!


    In her confused state, she suddenly felt a foreign body slowly entering her most shameful place.


    ¡°Ah!¡± She screamed, using her hands to push against the man¡¯s chest in refusal, but his skin was thick and tough, displaying the man¡¯s extraordinary burly stature. Her small, delicate hands were not enough to tickle him, let alone be able to push him away.


    She became anxious as even without experience, she knew this wasn¡¯t a good situation. Her hands kept flailing and her legs that were encircled around the man¡¯s waist carelessly kicked his back, making loud noises each time.


    But her resistance was not a threat; on the contrary, it evoked stronger enthusiasm. He fell on her body, staring at her with a pair of red eyes and spewing warm breaths on her body. The two arms gripped onto her hips and his movements rapidly increased.


    She cried in panic: ¡°Go away, don¡¯t¡­don¡¯t do this to me¡­¡±


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, don¡¯t be scared. Eldest Cousin promises it won¡¯t be as painful as yesterday. Being a wife is like this; this is an inevitable course of events.¡± From her back came a gentle murmur¨Cit was the man that was holding her that spoke.


    Who¡¯s Eldest Cousin are you? Which family¡¯s Eldest Cousin would dare do this to their Sister Cousin? Please, are you mentally sane?


    But the situation in front of her clearly was 3P, 3P ah! She really wanted to cry. She had watched these videos on the computer before, but never expected to experience it herself.


    She definitely didn¡¯t want this. Her reputation would be ruined. She¡¯s only 18 years old, had only just recently entered college and had a great future ahead.


    ¡°No, no, you can¡¯t!¡± She panicked and struggled in the man¡¯s arms.


    But either because of the man restraining her from behind or the oppression from the man in front, her weak body clearly couldn¡¯t break free.


    ¡°Let Second Cousin finish, it¡¯s not like this is the first time. Yesterday in the bridal chamber, you weren¡¯t like this¡­¡± The man that was pressed on her gasped out a little impatiently but the action underneath his body didn¡¯t stop.


    What bridal chamber? Shitty bridal chamber aside, I may be an adult, but I¡¯m still under the legal marriage age. I¡¯ll be fined for having an early marriage.


    She scolded them in her mind, when suddenly her view turned dark. The man behind her had bowed his head and kissed her. He gently rubbed her mouth, the tip of his tongue pushing between her lips, before immediately sliding into her mouth and entangling with her sweet tongue. He sucked on her lips, used his tongue to touch her uvula, nonstop sucking on her sweetness.


    ¡°Wu wu¡­¡± She was kissed to the point where she forgot to struggle and unconsciously became soft in his embrace.


    It turns out kissing could also make one addicted.


    This is a dream, it must be a dream. Otherwise how could a 3P situation appear? In the past, she was a good girl that had never even kissed before.


    While kissing her, the man¡¯s big hands holding her legs slowly moved towards her chest, gently caressing her pair of sweet buns, sometimes rubbing, sometimes pulling.


    As if his touch contained endless charm, wave after wave of numbness followed where his fingers moved, causing her body to be suffused with a luster¡­It was merely a short while but her white skin had turned pink and her bright eyes were shrouded in a layer of haze, threatening to drop tears.


    The beautiful and bewitching body admitted defeat under the attack of the two males. Her slender legs were still encircled around the waist of the man on top but were now catering to him, drawing him closer and closer to her and leaving no gaps.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu¡¯s so obedient.¡±


    The man who kissed her praised her and moved his lips down her body to her two plump mounds before stopping. Opening his mouth, he sucked on a brightly-colored red plum when suddenly the girl¡¯s sweet fragrance blurred his senses and caused him to devote himself wholeheartedly to his endeavor.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡± She gasped as pleasure overtook reason, and she involuntarily raised her chest up towards the head above.


    Since this is a dream, just let her sink into depravity!


    The man pressed on her body raised his arms to place her slender legs that previously had been wrapped around his waist on his shoulders. He then raised her white derriere, his immense heat penetrating deeper, like a metal spring, seemingly weak but hiding great power.


    ¡°Nn..ah..¡± She writhed unbearably. What a tortuous dream!


    The young and tender body was continually teased by the two men in front and behind, stimulating each nerve, until finally the most splendid of fireworks burst out.


    Suffering to the extreme, pleasure to the extreme; it was the dual feeling of flying to heaven and sinking to hell.


    She had never experienced anything like this before. She screamed as her body trembled violently before her vision went black and she lost consciousness.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu!¡± Yun Shi Yi held the unconscious girl, his eyes flashing in distress. He couldn¡¯t help but reproach the other male: ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? I told you to be gentler. Did you think you were hunting in the woods? Zhu Zhu is our wife, not the prey under your arrows.¡±


    ¡°Then, what about about you, Eldest Brother?¡± With a guilty conscience, Yun Shi Wei muttered under his breath: ¡°Last night during the bridal night, I didn¡¯t see your movements being gentle. Zhu Zhu also fainted then, and you still have the gall to blame me?¡±


    He was still inside the girl¡¯s wonderful area and his heavy body still pressed on her underneath, but he was unwilling to extricate himself.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you already finish?¡± Having been refuted, Yun Shi Yi had no words to counterattack with but he kept a straight face and launched another assault. ¡°Hurry and get up. Zhu Zhu is this weak, how can she endure your heavy body pressing on her for long?¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m still not satisfied!¡± Yun Shi Wei reluctantly got up.


    Yun Shi Yi gently placed her on the bed and picked up a towel from the desk to clean the white turbidity flowing from the girl¡¯s lower parts. Once finished, he threw the towel on the ground and laid down on the bed to hug the fragile body. Suddenly filled with great satisfaction and affection, his movements became much warmer.


    To be honest, his swelling underneath was very uncomfortable but he didn¡¯t want her to suffer from the slightest injury. Anyhow, they will be husband and wife for a lifetime, so it¡¯s fine to go slowly!


    Yun Shi Wei glared at him: ¡°Last night you already embraced Zhu Zhu while sleeping. Tonight it should be my turn.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi snorted: ¡°Don¡¯t forget I¡¯m the legitimate husband. Not kicking you off the bed is already treating you fairly. Act less shamelessly. If you¡¯re not satisfied, the door is to the right. You can open it yourself and get out.¡±


    ¡°No way I¡¯m leaving. I won¡¯t make things convenient for you.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei indignantly opened the covers and laid down on Ruan Zhu¡¯s other side. One hand crept towards one of her mounds in front but he was noticed by Yun Shi Yi, who waved YSW¡¯s hand away.


    ¡°What are you doing? I can¡¯t even touch?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. Sleep and don¡¯t randomly move your limbs. We still have to pay a visit to the elders tomorrow!¡±


    Outside the window, the moon was bright and clear. Inside the room, the sound of snoring gradually resounded. After an indeterminate amount of time, the girl that was nestled between two men opened her watery eyes and blankly stared at her surroundings.


    A phrase that she commonly saw on the internet slowly took shape in her mind¡­.Transmigration?

 Chapter 2 - Awake

    TN: I¡¯ve decided to utilize a numerical glossary box at the top of each chapter similar to what Dreams of Jianghu uses. All alphabetical footnotes will be translation notes at the end of the chapter.


    Once she found herself lying in a man¡¯s embrace on a wide bed, her eyes displayed an expression of surprise and bewilderedness.


    Crossing over on top of a bed and being held by unfamiliar men, could she have transmigrated into their wife? Shifting her eyes, the shape of another man came into view. Immediately, she became so scared that her face turned white¡­NP?[a] Did she transmigrate into a brothel?


    There was no doubt that she¡¯s crossed over to an ancient period as the room¡¯s furnishings could prove the era.


    This body was not hers. Although it was a tender and beautiful figure, it was evident she was not yet fully grown, probably around fourteen or fifteen years old? So it turns out people in ancient times really did marry young! Furthermore, her own body had short hair but this current body had a head of long, silky black hair.


    It must be that her soul had transmigrated as she remembered the scene of her death. A cement block that fell from a bridge caused her body to be smashed to bits. In a split second, her soul was ejected and fluttered to and fro. When she regained consciousness, it was on this bed and she was being held by two men¡­Turns out the past long lovemaking wasn¡¯t a dream, and it was also the moment when she crossed over.


    She raised her arm to free herself from the man¡¯s arm that encircled her chest. But less than a second later, that arm came back down to its original spot.


    Shaking her head, she decided to ignore the arm. Although she had only 18 years of intelligence, over the course of growing up in loneliness due to her mother¡¯s early death, she had become precocious and was more mature than her peers. After calming her emotions, she started organizing her way of thinking and realized there seemed to be something extra hidden in her brain that wasn¡¯t hers but belonged to the original owner. The memories weren¡¯t complete¨Cthey were broken into small pieces but would still be useful to collect information.


    The original name of the body was Ruan Zhu, which only differed by her name of Qin Zhu by one character.[b] Fine, since I¡¯ll be using your body, I¡¯ll use your identity to live from now on, so today onward, I¡¯ll just go by Ruan Zhu!


    The two men beside her are Ruan Zhu¡¯s elder cousins. It was a relationship between the children of two siblings resulting in a marriage among close relatives. The poor girl gained two husbands at one time. No wonder after serving them, she kicked the bucket.


    The country¡¯s name is Tian Chu and hundreds of years ago, a natural disaster changed peoples¡¯ physiology. The female population dwindled and as the ratio between males and females increasingly grew disproportionately in males¡¯ favor, more and more men were destined to be bachelors for the rest of their lives. Fertility rates plummeted causing the population size to substantially decrease and the national power to weaken. As a result, experts vigorously promoted a ¡°one woman, multiple husbands¡± system.[c]


    Even though it was still a male-dominated society, in order to increase the population size and to allow males the right to marry, a national law was passed, stipulating all females must marry at least five males and birth at least two children to each husband.


    The passing of this law meant that women have become fertility machines. Fortunately, the chance of having twins or other multiple births is high. In fact, the two men lying next to her just so happen to be twins. Using the hazy moonlight streaming through the window, Ruan Zhu looked the brothers up and down. The facial outline is unmistakably sharp and angular; figure is tall, straight, and full of hidden strength; overall appearance is handsome and spirited.


    Fortunately, this is the type she likes.


    A woman¡¯s status in the household is very high¨Cthis part isn¡¯t bad. She¡¯s definitely not willing to be bossed around by men in this world.


    But is she willing to accept polyandry?


    The well-built arm underneath her neck acting as her pillow made Ruan Zhu feel a little at ease and a little warm. She also recalled how just a few hours ago on this bed, that same hand and arm had gently fondled all over her body. Her cheeks reddened and a sweet feeling spread throughout her heart. Frowning, she contemplated for a long time before deciding: En, for the harmonious growth of society, this system is something that must be implemented. But to be honest, this is an embarrassing situation.


    From now on, she is Ruan Zhu, under the care and love of a group of husbands.


    In ancient China, a man¡¯s three wives and four concubines was considered heaven¡¯s law and earth¡¯s principle[d] and if a woman made a slight misstep, she was considered unrestrained and immoral. It must be known that ancient matriarchal systems have a history of 100,000 years of development on earth, resulting in men respecting women. Then after a few thousand years, the culture turned to spoiling men, making males think each and every one of them is God¡¯s gift.


    Tian Chu country¡¯s system of ¡°one woman, many husbands¡± is the greatest irony for the stallion man.


    Fortunately, I, Qin Zhu, no that¡¯s not right¨CI, Ruan Zhu, crossed over to Tian Chu and not one of China¡¯s stallion male eras. This is tolerable, just that it¡¯s a little awkward to be regarded as a machine to bear children.


    Nestled in the man¡¯s wide embrace, Ruan Zhu once again entered dreamland.


    Perhaps due to her mind having information regarding this era and the two Yun brothers, from the initial crossing over, Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t dislike the siblings. But when she opened her sleepy eyes and met the pitch black eyes of Yun Shi Yi, she still became very nervous and moved her knee. Doing so caused her to touch something she shouldn¡¯t have. The man sucked in a breath in response while one hand stroked her plump chest, gently playing with her small fruit seed.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡± Ruan Zhu bit her lower lip, using her delicate little hand to grab the other¡¯s large and restless hand. She had seen on the internet before that a man¡¯s lust was very strong upon awakening. The ones with a wife would push them underneath to make love for a period of time. Thinking of this, she immediately stiffened her body and didn¡¯t dare to randomly move. Unlike last night when she thought the pleasant lovemaking was a dream, now she¡¯s awake and at a loss.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu¡­¡± Yun Shi Yi hoarsely called her name before discovering her rejection and lowly laughed: ¡°We¡¯ve been married for a few days now. Are you still shy?¡±


    Ruan Zhu lowered her eyes. She wasn¡¯t shy, she was nervous and tense. No matter who it is, anyone that crossed over to find themselves lying a on large bed being teased by two men wouldn¡¯t have a normal reaction.


    ¡°Our families live far apart so Eldest Cousin had never seen you before. But from the day we got married, Zhu Zhu became my, Yun Shi Yi¡¯s, lawful wedded wife and I pledge that I will treat you well for a lifetime. All of my properties are now yours to control, including my own self that is now also yours. You don¡¯t have to worry, it should be me that worries.[e] My life¡¯s destiny is now placed in the palm of Zhu Zhu¡¯s hand.¡±


    The social status of men in this era is no longer great. Once home, they have to obediently listen to their wife¡¯s words. Even a little mishap can be cause for divorce, and there are plenty of examples of this occurring. But in divorce, not only can the property not be taken back, all children born are also considered ¡°owned¡± by the wife.


    The men in this era have become accustomed to being controlled by their female counterpart. They believe it is heaven¡¯s law and earth¡¯s principle and no one had ever thought to change this unreasonable situation as even the country¡¯s ruler fears his wife. Although this is the case, women still frequently protest that there are too many husbands and have asked to lessen the required number of husbands and childbirths.


    What a joke. What are men supposed to do then? Could it be to shave their heads to become Buddhist monks?


    The just-transmigrated Ruan Zhu was still shy when facing the people of this ancient era. Furthermore, this man that was holding her was her proper and official husband. She really didn¡¯t know what to say or do. ¡°Eldest Cousin.¡± She tried calling him, and found that this label wasn¡¯t bad. It suited her much more than calling him ¡®spouse¡¯ or ¡®hubby¡¯.


    ¡°Does Zhu Zhu have a question to ask?¡± Yun Shi Yi stared at her with lust in his eyes, his fingertips drawing circles on her chest. They¡¯ve only managed to have one pleasant night and it was on the day of their wedding. Scared of hurting her, he¡¯s been patient, but Heaven knows how hard it¡¯s been to suppress himself.


    ¡°That thing we did last night, can we not do it? I don¡¯t want to¡­¡± She discovered his ¡õ had risen, thus could only beg him with a reddened face. She truly hasn¡¯t made any mental preparations yet and there was also another man sleeping behind her. It¡¯s not that 3P is impossible, but they should wait until they¡¯re more familiar with each other right?!


    Yun Shi Yi didn¡¯t respond. Instead, he leaned over and kissed her, intertwining their lips and tongues together. He explored her mouth for a while before letting her go and softly saying: ¡°Eldest Cousin will serve Zhu Zhu in dressing. In a while, we still have to go out.¡±


    Ruan Zhu nodded her head. Taking the opportunity while Yun Shi Wei was still asleep, she properly got ready without delay. She didn¡¯t yet have the courage to face two men while being stark naked.


    But how could that Second Cousin be so similar to a pig? They¡¯ve talked for so long yet he still hasn¡¯t woken.


    She had already accepted Yun Shi Yi in her heart and enjoyed his service.


    In her previous life, her family was ordinary and her appearance was average. It was only when she entered college and didn¡¯t encounter any pursuers that a secret yearning for love emerged deep in her heart. She had hoped that someday, a tall and handsome man would kneel in front of her and woo her with a bouquet of flowers.


    On campus and on the streets, her eyes had followed men with extraordinary looks, but she knew that with her average appearance she could never enter their eyes¡­


    Now that she is being treated so carefully by an ultra-handsome guy that was most definitely considered eye candy, her vanity was truly satisfied.


    [a] Meaning harem/reverse harem; could be any number of M:F


    [b] The ¡°Zhu¡± in both names are the same character. ÈîÖé vs ÇØÖé


    [c] aka polyandry ( ?¡ã ?? ?¡ã)


    [d] Ìì¾­µØÒå, idiom meaning right and proper


    [e] Double meaning is that he¡¯ll take care of all the worries now + having to be worried of his situation

 Chapter 3 - Road Crash

    Glossary


    [1] Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters; Wikipedia


    [2] ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12w to-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Now that she is being treated so carefully by an ultra-handsome guy that was most definitely considered eye candy, her vanity was truly satisfied.


    While she was getting dressed, Yun Shi Wei, who was still asleep on the bed, sleepily muttered: ¡°Zhu Zhu, wait a bit. Second Cousin is here to help you change.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was frightened by the sudden noise, but couldn¡¯t help but smile after seeing that Yun Shi Wei turned and went back to sleep after he finished speaking. Yun Shi Yi also smiled: ¡°This guy is simple-minded, if he¡¯s not eating then he¡¯s sleeping. We don¡¯t have to mind him, let¡¯s get dressed first. Oh, I should be referring to myself as ¡®husband¡¯. In a bit, this husband will style your hair in a zhuimaji and dress you up beautifully to go out.¡±


    ×¹Âí÷Ù | Zhuimaji Hairstyle


    ×¹Âí÷Ù | Zhuimaji Hairstyle


    It¡¯s undeniable that Yun Shi Yi is an extremely outstanding man with a handsome appearance and a gentle and warm temperament. Though it¡¯s currently unknown how many assets he holds, but just from looking at the room¡¯s decorations, he should be very well-off. If they were in a later generational period, who knows how many women would chase after him.


    A pity that the memories in her head regarding this world aren¡¯t complete. The majority of them were in fragments and she had no way to search for the remaining parts.


    After she finished dressing, a servant boy brewed tea and carried a bowl of water for her to wash her face.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s two personal servants are both pretty boys that came from her dowry. One of them is called Nuan Chun, the other is Nuan Qing.[a] Listening to these names, one can tell these servants have a special status. They aren¡¯t normal servants because not only do they do the usual work and handicrafts, but at required times, they can also function as bed warmers.


    Truly a comprehensive triple service.


    Nuan Chun held the comb, preparing to brush his lady¡¯s hair. Before she married, this was his duty but it¡¯s since been stolen from him by Yun Shi Yi.


    Starting from yesterday, Nuan Chun had been deprived of the privilege he¡¯s held for many years and it was the same today, too. Nuan Chun¡¯s eyes flashed with disappointment but he didn¡¯t dare go against Yun Shi Yi¡¯s directive and could only wear a respectful expression while carefully exiting the room.


    Once everything was ready, a gold buyao was inserted sideways into her brushed hair¡­She closely examined her features in the copper mirror. What entered her eyes was the appearance of a fourteen or fifteen year old girl. The complexion was very white, coupled with an oval face; small, exquisite nose and delicate mouth; her pair of eyes resembled the bright luster of clear blue water. It was an appearance that caused others to secretly feel deep affection for her.


    Multiple gold buyao (²½Ò¡ ) as worn by Fan BingBing


    It wasn¡¯t the type of appearance that would be described as a ¡®calamitous beauty¡¯ but her looks were like a white lily¨Cpure and natural, revealing the clear elegance and cheerfulness of her body and mind.


    °ÙºÏ | White lilies in Okinawa


    Not bad. If this was the past life, I could have probably used this face to become a celebrity!


    Having slept enough, Yun Shi Wei finally woke up and casually dressed before leaping towards Ruan Zhu to hold her. He placed a kiss on her tender, white face: ¡°Our family¡¯s Zhu Zhu is truly adorable and her scent is amazing too.¡±


    He had great strength and had carelessly hugged her but it caused Ruan Zhu to feel discomfort. She could only pleadingly look at Yun Shi Yi: ¡°Eldest Cousin¡­¡°


    Yun Shi Yi came over and pushed his brother away: ¡°Go over there. Hurry and see if the carriage is fixed yet. After we eat we still have to return for the first parental visit.¡±


    Contrary to expectations, Yun Shi Wei was also happy and hollered out the window: ¡°Xiao Feng, Xiao Shan, is the carriage ready yet? If not, you better hurry.¡±


    Ruan Zhu couldn¡¯t help but to cover her mouth and laugh while Yun Shi Yi bitterly smiled: ¡°This simpleton.¡±[b]


    Breakfast was relatively simple¨Cone plate of dried bamboo stir fried with meat; one plate of tossed white fungus; one plate of braised pork; one plate of braised lion¡¯s head; six types of small desserts; and one beef and pumpkin soup.


    Ëñ¸É³´Èâ | Dried bamboo stir fried with meat


    Çå°èÒø¶ú | Tossed white fungus


    ºìÉÕÈâ | Braised pork


    ºìÉÕʨ×ÓÍ· | Braised lion¡¯s head


    Various types of buns and pastries


    Å£ÈâÄϹÏÌÀ | Beef and pumpkin soup


    Yun Shi Wei was the type of guy that must have meat at every meal, hence the braised pork and the braised lion¡¯s head were all cleaned by him alone. Ruan Zhu and Yun Shi Yi preferred lighter foods, but Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t have an appetite after waking. After only having a bowl of soup and half a piece of dessert, she put down her chopsticks.


    Regarding the young married couple¡¯s so-called return to the bride¡¯s parental home, it is done on the third day. The day of marriage is referred to as ¡®day one¡¯, and the day after marriage is considered ¡®day two¡¯. On the morning of ¡®day three¡¯, they must return to visit the bride¡¯s parents. In preparation for this day, relatives had long been prepared for their return with piles of delicious food and drinks and were waiting with hearts full of joy.


    In this world, the visit to the parental home was not to the bride¡¯s family but to the husband¡¯s family. A woman¡¯s status at home is high so she can return to her parental home whenever she likes; therefore, there¡¯s no need to ask for her husband¡¯s approval. On the contrary, a husband wanting to visit his parental home with his wife had difficulties among even more difficulties. A wife had so many husbands, there will inevitably be bias towards one or a few males thus there¡¯s a large gap between those that had favor and those that didn¡¯t.


    Ever since the female population started diminishing hundreds of years ago and the polyandry system was enacted, many social customs also changed. Women could reside near or in their paternal homes and accept courtship offers as they came or could go to their husbands home. Generally speaking, they could go wherever they wanted.


    If a man has the ability and assets, he can leave his family¡¯s home to establish himself. This type of man usually had the prospect of becoming a principal husband. Men without ability or with few assets could only become a lowly secondary husbands. If a man was worse than this, he could only wait to be sold as a servant. Perhaps by relying on their good looks or their ability to run small errands, they could become bed warmers. Then, if they received favor, they might even be able to have the wife give birth to their children.


    To increase the population size, even the most average and lowest of servants will be sold or sent to some destitute women to be their lowly concubine. Of course, these impoverished women were more than pleased to accept cheap men to help with the arduous domestic labor and to earn money to support the family.


    The laws of Tian Chu only helped the upper echelons of society that had ability. It wasn¡¯t considered a great injustice if people with no talent were hacked to death in the middle of the street by the nobility. However, this was only true if the one being hacked was a man. If it was a woman, it would of course be a different matter.


    So many laws and regulations have been changed but the one unshaken rule is that all children born must inherit the father¡¯s family name¨Cthis was in order to pass on the household register.


    Ruan Zhu only knew that the two Yun brothers are involved in business, but the specifics were still unclear. Looking at the Yun residence, she found their house was in a style not commonly seen. There were three buildings with side courtyards on either side. The entire estate was covered with engraved blue brick and tile, depicting a multitude of birds in various aspects of flight. Overall, the residence was very grand and imposing, and the number of servants currently in use also numbered above ten.


    The place she crossed over to is called Lan Zhou which is one thousand li[1] away from the capital, and happens to be the second largest city after the Imperial Capital. The Yun brothers¡¯ parents are the landlords of a certain village outside the city. Using a horse-drawn carriage, it would take the greater half of one sichen[2] to arrive.


    Yun Shi Yi carried Ruan Zhu into the carriage. Yun Shi Wei was about to enter as well but was pushed out by Yun Shi Yi, who scolded him: ¡°Go to the front to drive the carriage, there is no need for you here.¡±


    ¡°Having Xiao Feng and Xiao Shan drive is enough. Besides, there¡¯s no room to sit up front.¡±


    ¡°Go be their guide. It¡¯s so crowded in the carriage that it can¡¯t fit three people.¡± The inside of the carriage was filled with presents to give to relatives, but it was an exaggeration to say that it was crowded. Don¡¯t talk about just seating three people, it was possible to fit even three more.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like they don¡¯t know the road. The hell you mean I should be a guide?¡± Yun Shi Wei was so angry he glared at Ruan Zhu. This was the difficulty of being a secondary husband, but who told him to not have any ability? Using his eyes to show grievance to Ruan Zhu, he hoped that she¡¯d say a few words in his favor.


    Ruan Zhu received his distress signal but pretending not to see it, turned her head to glance at the scenery outside the window.


    Stamping his feet, Yun Shi Wei could only squeeze in with the servants.


    The carriage slowly traveled atop the the limestone pavement. Lan Zhou was worthy of being called Tian Chu¡¯s second largest city. On both sides of the road were multi-storied buildings featuring businesses of all kinds. Each shop owner stood at their storefronts, enthusiastically calling potential customers inside to shop around.


    There was heavy traffic and pedestrians walked to and fro, causing the streets to be bustling with activity. There were so many things that Ruan Zhu had never seen before¨Ca shadow puppet show being performed by the side of the road; a performing troupe popular among the general citizens; various people trying to sell their skills; vendors shouting loudly in an attempt to sell their sham products; someone pulling a donkey along the street; a man using a shoulder pole to deliver goods; there was even a unicycle cart¡­That kind of cart she had only ever seen in picture books when she was young. She never expected to be able to see the actual thing.


    Probably something like this


    This is such a good version of the Along the River During the Qingming Festival painting!


    A famous painting depicting commoners¡¯ every day life during a festival. Wikipedia


    Feeling that everything in the ancient world was so novel, Ruan Zhu supported herself by holding onto the window frame while continuing to look outside with interest. Seeing that she liked the view, Yun Shi Yi opened the window completely to let her freely observe her surroundings while explaining the sights to her: ¡°You¡¯ve never been to this state city since your mother¡¯s family is far away from here, so let me be your guide. This is Yuping Restaurant, which is the largest restaurant in Lan Zhou. Their buns, commonly called Hibiscus buns, are the best with their unique flavor and their neat appearance. I¡¯ll take you to eat some one day. Ah, that nearby house is Mingyue Restaurant. They¡¯re most famous for their duck dish. Even the emperor¡¯s relatives[c] will travel thousands of li to have a full duck feast. This following place is Lan Zhou¡¯s most luxurious inn, called Tianyi Pavilion[d] . This inn¡¯s owner is no one else but me, this husband. Tianyi Pavilion is currently making a profit but because it¡¯s only been open for less than two years, its reputation has yet to spread. But after some time, I believe profits will advance to where we¡¯ll be swimming in gold.¡±


    ¡®Inn¡¯, that should be something like my past world¡¯s ¡®hotel¡¯, right?


    Her hubby was so rich. When you want to go out, there¡¯s a car. All right, it¡¯s a horse-pulled car[e], but it conserves resources and doesn¡¯t pollute the air. And he also has a house. Even though it¡¯s not a skyscraper with extensive rooms and it doesn¡¯t have a flushable toilet, there¡¯s still a garden that can be considered villa-level. As for the inn¡­not sure if it offers karaoke, pop groups, and other various performance acts there?


    A little while later, the carriage arrived at the city gates. Perhaps due to the city¡¯s archways being too narrow, but it only possible for two carriages to safely cross at one time. If there was a third carriage, the probability of a collision occurring would be high.


    The Yun carriage advanced along with another carriage and steadily entered the archway. However, from the other direction came yet another carriage rapidly charging headfirst into the other two carriages, seemingly aiming for the gap between them.


    With a loud ¡°bang!¡± the incoming wagon collided into their carriage, and the violent impact caused Ruan Zhu to slam against the wall. Yun Shi Yi had also staggered but seeing Ruan Zhu on the floor, hurriedly stretched out his hand to pull her close. However, he was late by a step. ¡°Ah¡­,¡± Ruan Zhu stifled her groan, one hand covering her head, in too much pain to speak.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu.¡± Yun Shi Yi held her and removing her hand that was covering her head, uncovered the originally bright and clean forehead that was now red and swollen. In a blink of an eye, a big bruise half the length of a thumb took form. His heart hurt and the feeling was more uncomfortable than if he himself was the one injured. Using his hand to gently massage the bruise, he asked: ¡°How is it, Zhu Zhu? Does it hurt?¡±


    Ruan Zhu head hurt so badly, she thought it was going to crack open. Her eyes were filled with teardrops but she strove to not let them fall. Hearing Yun Shi Yi¡¯s questions, she shook her head back and forth.


    Yun Shi Yi kicked the carriage door open, and bellowed at Yun Shi Wei, who was sitting in the driver¡¯s seat: ¡°You despicable guy, what are you doing?! Something so simple as driving a carriage can even result in an accident. What did you dare to eat that gave you such nerve? If you don¡¯t know how to drive, then just get out. No one will force you to stay.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei stammered: ¡°Eldest Brother, it wasn¡¯t my fault. It¡¯s their carriage that came from the other side and crashed into us.¡±


    Hearing this, Yun Shi Yi became angrier, his eyes stormy. ¡°Then you don¡¯t know how to dodge? Are you waiting for death?¡±


    Fortunately, the collision between the two carriages was just that their cart shafts had gotten stuck. For the most part, both humans and horses were unhurt though the latter was frightened. If it wasn¡¯t for the two carriages being truly stuck together, one would fear that the horses would long have run wild.


    ³µÔ¯ Cart shaft = wooden ¡°poles¡± sticking out on left where the horses would be hooked to


    This was the first time that Ruan Zhu had seen him become angry so she used her hand to pull at his clothes: ¡°Eldest Cousin, don¡¯t be angry.¡±


    Seeing her pale face and that her eyes held a trace of fear, Yun Shi Yi¡¯s face slowly relaxed and he used his hand to slowly stroke her back: ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, Zhu Zhu. This husband isn¡¯t angry at you. It¡¯s just that he shouldn¡¯t have let you get hurt.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just a small bruise that will heal in a few days. It¡¯s also not Second Cousin¡¯s fault.¡±


    A young female descended from the opposite carriage, and her skirt swayed with each step as she walked over. While she was not the most beautiful, her appearance was full of a fox¡¯s charm. Coming near them, she pulled on Yun Shi Wei¡¯s arm and smiled: ¡°I was just thinking who this was. Isn¡¯t this Yun family¡¯s second oldest son? Sweetheart, I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d see you here of all places. I haven¡¯t seen you scoundrel for a while, but you still really exceeded my expectations. How could you have become someone¡¯s secondary husband? Elder Sister feels so distressed. How about you come with this Elder Sister somewhere to chat and reminisce?¡±


    There was only two meters between the carriage interior and the outside, thus from the open door, Ruan Zhu was able to see everything clearly. Feeling confused that this ancient woman dared to solicit males in the middle of the street, she asked: ¡°Eldest Cousin, who is she? She dares to scold Second Cousin while spewing those words?¡±


    Regarding the relationship between the two of them, if it was matters of love, it wasn¡¯t good to be the one standing between them. But once she thought of Yun Shi Wei potentially having a foot in both camps[f], she truly became indignant. Both eyes blazing, she internally made a sound of anger. Hmph! She, Ruan Zhu, is not that easy to bully. If he wants to leave, that¡¯s fine, but he better be prepared to pay the price.


    The author has something to say: She¡¯s only transmigrated for one day, but this little girl is getting better and better and is planning to eat the two brothers.


    [a] ů´º Nuan Chun Warm Spring; ůÇé Nuan Qing Warm Feelings


    [b] I¡¯m not fond of this translation. ÁÓ»õ was used and it means ¡®poor quality goods¡¯/¡¯inferior goods¡¯


    [c] »ÊÇ×¹úÆÝ literal meaning is ¡¯emperor¡¯s relatives¡¯ but idiom meaning is ¡®people with powerful connections¡¯. Both meanings work here.


    [d] There¡¯s actually a library with the same name in China but I¡¯m not sure of the relevancy (Wikipedia)


    [e] She makes a pun here. ³µ is car and by adding a horse (Âí) in front, it becomes carriage (Âí³µ).


    [f] aka have an affai

 Chapter 4 - Chaos at the City Gate

    After having his arm grabbed, Yun Shi Wei glanced toward the carriage¡¯s interior before immediately flinging off the woman as if she was a hot potato. He stammered: ¡°Who is your Second Older Brother? You¡¯re so much older than me yet still calling me ¡®Older Brother¡¯¨Cyou¡¯re not sick, are you? Others will misunderstand us. I have no relationship with you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll throw me away this quickly? But this old woman has even touched the plaything in the crotch of your trousers, hehe, and the size isn¡¯t small. How about we have some fun one day? I¡¯ll let you satisfy your craving for a woman.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s entire face was so red that it seemed steam could come out at any moment. He shouted: ¡°What kind of rubbish are you speaking? It was you that was shameless, running over whenever it¡¯s convenient for you to do this and that. I have never agreed to do¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes flashed with Schadenfreude and purposely used a loud voice to reply to Ruan Zhu: ¡°That woman is called Ma Cui Yun[a] who really likes our family¡¯s Shi Wei. Some time ago, she even brought a matchmaker to our house to propose marriage, begging for Shi Wei to be her secondary husband and saying that she would pamper only him!¡±


    Yun Shi Wei turned pale with fright: ¡°Zhu Zhu, don¡¯t listen to Eldest Brother¡¯s story. If I ever had that intention, then let Heaven¡¯s thunder strike me in two. Ever since we got engaged, I haven¡¯t dared to think of anyone else. It¡¯s Ma Cui Yun that tries to seduce me; I¡¯ve been keeping myself pure for you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu wasn¡¯t the kind of individual that liked breaking apart a pair of mandarin ducks[b], hence she¡¯d despise it if a man provoked another woman and then had a relationship with her (RZ). She deadpanned: ¡°Second Cousin, you having a beloved is a good thing. Little Sister feels only happiness and wants to wish you well. My saying this is not to obstruct your future.[c] As the common saying goes, ¡®Out of Heaven¡¯s thirty three levels, the highest one is wherever you hold hatred; out of four hundred and forty illnesses, the most bitter one is lovesickness.¡¯[d] Another day, I¡¯ll have Eldest Cousin prepare a generous betrothal gift for you. Afterwards, we¡¯ll send you to the Ma residence to marry and allow your relationship to advance. From then on, I hope you¡¯ll maintain those good feelings for a long time with both sides of the family living in harmony. Wouldn¡¯t that be beautiful?¡±


    It was Yun Shi Wei¡¯s nature to be honest and straightforward while being clumsy in speech. Unable to use flowery words, he was so worried that his brow beaded with sweat: ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. I only like one person, Zhu Zhu, and that¡¯s you. I don¡¯t like Ma Cui Yun; she¡¯s ugly, dark, and fat to the point where grabbing her is impossible.¡±


    Ruan Zhu suddenly realized something: ¡°Oh! The feelings are so deep that Second Cousin has already embraced her?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei hurriedly shook his hands in refusal: ¡°No, I said it wrong. She¡¯s so heavy that no human is able to hold her.¡±


    Ma Cui Yun¡¯s face was ashen. Poking at Yun Shi Wei, she hurled abuse at him: ¡°Who are you calling heavy? Who said I wanted you to hold me? It should obviously be this old lady holding you instead. That toy at your crotch has already been touched by this old lady, yet you want to pretend you¡¯re innocent. If you didn¡¯t look so fierce and that object in your pants wasn¡¯t so large, causing me to think you¡¯d bring me great satisfaction, did you think this old lady would cherish you?¡±


    Wow, women from the ancient era were really awesome!


    Unable to believe what she was hearing, Ruan Zhu involuntarily widened her eyes. This sort of awesome woman was also rare in her past world. No, rather than saying ¡®rare¡¯, it should be that she has never met anyone that dared to scold someone in this manner. At least in her past social circle, everyone was educated and would never use coarse words when blaming others.


    Ma Cui Yun¡¯s and Yun family¡¯s carriages had stopped at the city gates. It was still peak morning travel time, thus there were many people blocked in front of and behind them. Losing patience, some travelers walked up and soon there was a lively discussion where all kinds of things were said:


    ¡°Hey! Are you guys leaving the city or not? If not, move out of the road. We¡¯re still waiting to leave the city for business.¡±


    ¡°If you wanna flirt, go home and flirt. If you wanna be a slut, go home and be a slut.¡±


    ¡°Just looking at her, it¡¯s clear that woman is no good, trying to steal a man in the middle of the street.¡±


    ¡°That man also isn¡¯t any good. If it wasn¡¯t for him recklessly fooling around, that woman wouldn¡¯t be hurt now.¡±


    Ruan Zhu looked at Yun Shi Wei, her two watery phoenix eyes flashing with a trace of a smile and an unfathomable clarity. Lil boy, you¡¯ve casually provoked peach blossoms[e] so this time you have to suffer some bitterness! Facing Yun Shi Yi: ¡°Eldest Cousin, look. Shouldn¡¯t we let Ma Cui Yun distance herself from the carriage a bit? Then we can drive outside the city and unblock the road. It wouldn¡¯t be good if she got hurt from being too close.¡±


    In a bright voice, Yun Shi Yi ordered Yun Shi Wei: ¡°Shi Wei, tell that woman to move back a little. It¡¯s past time for us to leave.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei chided Ma Cui Yun: ¡°Did you hear that, my Eldest Brother is letting you go.¡±


    Ma Cui Yun didn¡¯t move and glanced at the carriage interior to find a maiden¡¯s dainty figure like a little bird relying on people[f] leaning against Yun Shi Yi¡¯s body. Her expression immediately wasn¡¯t good. Regarding this eldest son of Yun family, she had always greatly admired him. But thinking he was too strong, too outstanding, and let¡¯s not even talk about his appearance¨Cjust his arrogant temperament alone caused others to deem him untouchable, making them unable to look him straight in the face. Ma Cui Yun didn¡¯t have the courage to directly ask Yun Shi Yi but she didn¡¯t have the same misgivings towards Ruan Zhu. Not putting Ruan Zhu in her eyes, she directly asked her with a negative attitude: ¡°Who are you and why are you in this carriage?¡±


    The way this sentence was phrased sounded like she was interrogating her husband¡¯s mistress: Who are you and what are you doing with my man?


    Ruan Zhu smiled and responded not too fast, but not too slow either: ¡°Ah, who am I? Teehee, I won¡¯t tell you~ but compared to you, my relationship with these two Elder Brothers is much, much closer.¡± Ruan Zhu could clearly see the adoration deep in the other woman¡¯s eyes so she purposefully planted herself closer to Yun Shi Yi¡¯s side and the latter responded beautifully by drawing her into his embrace.


    Ma Cui Ying was so mad she shook her finger at Ruan Zhu: ¡°You¡¯re merely a silly little girl that has yet to grow up, and dare to steal men from this old lady? Do you have boobs as big as this old lady?¡± Saying so, she shook her two large chest meatballs.


    They really are huge. Ruan Zhu started to feel dizzy as they were on the same level as America¡¯s big milk cows.


    ¡°Is your butt as round as this old lady¡¯s?¡± Ma Chui Yun placed both hands on her hips to support her buttocks sticking out.


    So dizzy! Ruan Zhu closed her mouth, afraid to say anything, else the other party would reply with even more vulgarity. She admits, this type of outrageous person can only be found in a museum. She is not her opponent.


    Yun Shi Yi placed his hand on her back, slowly caressing it and in a dignified manner, spoke outside to Yun Shi Wei: ¡°Shi Wei, drive the carriage out of the city.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei didn¡¯t dare disobey and untangled the two carriages¡¯ shafts from each other before returning to the front passenger seat. Paying no more attention to Ma Cui Yun, he brandished the horsewhip and shouted: ¡°Jia!¡±


    Ma Cui Yun didn¡¯t dare use her life as a joke. Scared of being scraped by the carriage, she quickly scampered away.


    Staring after the Yun carriage as it left the city gates, Ma Cui Yun stamped her feet and yelled: ¡°You heartless rat,¡± before also getting on her own carriage and departing from the city¡¯s entrance.


    Thus, the blocked road was finally cleared.


    ¡°Second Cousin, do you really like Ma Cui Yun?¡± Because the carriage door had been kicked by Yun Shi Yi, it was now broken and couldn¡¯t be closed. Thus, Ruan Zhu sat in front of the door and faced Yun Shi Wei while asking her question.


    ¡°When did I?¡± Yun Shi Wei felt so awkward he could die. That Ma Cui Yun clearly should have liked Eldest Brother but because she didn¡¯t dare pursue him, she always found him (YSW) to make fun of. It was just that one time when he ran to an alley to relieve himself and was discovered by Ma Cui Yun, who frivolously took advantage of the situation. He really had bad luck.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ruan Zhu was serious: ¡°But I think she likes you very much, hm? Second Cousin, you don¡¯t need to be embarrassed. It¡¯s not like Little Sister doesn¡¯t understand things. If you truly do like her, just tell me. I can hand you divorce papers and return to you your freedom.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei panicked: ¡°I don¡¯t. There¡¯s no way I¡¯d like that ugly hussy. I only like Zhu Zhu so by all means you must not divorce me.¡±


    The men of this period were most afraid of being divorced as divorce caused them to gain a bad reputation, lessening the amount of women that would then show interest.


    Listening to his confession, Ruan Zhu became bashful and returned to her place beside Yun Shi Yi.


    Yun Shi Yi carried her into his lap. His right hand hooked around her tender waist while his left hand gently touched her delicate and charming nose. Smiling, he said: ¡°I didn¡¯t expect my little wife was this good at speaking. Your sharp mouth and direct words really surprised this husband.¡±


    [a] Not sure if it¡¯s relevant but her Yun is the same character as the twins. Âí´äÔÆ vs ÔÆÊÀΰ


    [b] Common way of saying affectionate lovers


    [c] Her meaning is that she isn¡¯t saying this to make him feel bad or guilty.


    [d] This ¡®common saying¡¯ is from the Chinese novel & TV drama Legend of Fuyao, I believe. Meaning of the first part is that if you hold hatred, others can¡¯t get close to you. Second half is pretty self explanatory. tbh, the juxtaposition between such flowery language and this novel is too much


    [e] Peach blossoms is an euphemism for romance


    [f] СÄñÒÀÈË°ã; idiom, meaning cute and helpless-looking

 Chapter 5 - Visiting Yun Manor

    Glossary


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    Sitting on his lap, Ruan Zhu found herself in a situation that she¡¯d be embarrassed to show other people. Smiling sweetly, she replied, ¡°That¡¯s right~ In the future you better not infuriate me else you¡¯ll suffer.¡±


    He placed his hand on her forehead that had just been bruised: ¡°Does it still hurt?¡±


    She shook her head. After her mother¡¯s death, she had suffered so much. How could this little bruise be painful? There actually wasn¡¯t anything bad with leaving her previous modernized world! Back there, she had practically been an orphan and had been poor in love and poor in wealth.


    In a flash, she discovered that she had hit the jackpot. How blessed she was to be loved so by the ones currently surrounding her. The things that she previously could never have, despite desperately craving for them in her past life, have all been perfectly obtained after she crossed over. It seems she was still favored by the Heavens.


    After exiting the city, they traveled on one road and signs of other humans gradually became sparse. Farmland dotted the landscape as far as the eye could see. Because it was still spring, they frequently saw farmers busy tilling their fields.


    Yun Shi Yi provided an explanation: ¡°Lan Zhou is located at the border of a large river, thus has fertile soil and abundant rainfall. Most of the land is used to plant rice paddies. Every year, the majority of the planted food is transported to the Imperial Capital on ships via Lan River. Not only is it convenient, it also reduces the amount of manpower required if other methods of transportation were used.¡±


    Tian Chu¡¯s Lan River was equivalent to her previous world¡¯s Grand Canal in China, both linking north and south together. Many travelers heading to the capital from Lan Zhou choose to travel by boat, as it was much more convenient compared to riding in a carriage and having to rest in inns.


    ¾©º¼´óÔËºÓ | Grand Canal


    Oldest and longest canal in the world (Wikipedia)


    Yun Shi Yi pointed at the vast expanse of cultivated land outside the window, proudly saying: ¡°From here on forward, all of this is land belongs to the Yun family. Those farmers are all tenants of ours and there¡¯s around five or six hundred of them.¡±


    The Yun clan is a large landowner in Lan Zhou. Yun Shi Yi is the eldest son and also the son of the first husband. In the future, he would receive a large part of the family¡¯s production capital but because he had numerous male siblings, it¡¯s inevitable that resentments would form in regards to the topic of dividing the family¡¯s property. Four years ago, Yun Shi Yi had abandoned everything to do with his family. Taking his one full brother with him, he went to Lan Zhou to try to make his living. He wanted to use his own two hands to create something of value, and sure enough, the Heavens couldn¡¯t bear to turn its back on such a resolute man, letting him succeed halfway.


    ¡°How far is it from here to the Yun manor? If it¡¯s not far, is it possible to go on foot?¡± Ruan Zhu felt that staying inside the carriage was too stuffy. It being spring, the weather was not too cold or too hot, just perfect for taking a walk.


    ¡°It¡¯s not considered far, only about three to five li away. That distance is fine for a male, but I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s not that easy for a girl like you.¡± Yun Shi Wei smiled and held her while exiting the carriage. He was truly addicted to carrying her. The girl had a soft physique unlike the hardness of a man, revealing her clean scent and making it so that he loved it too much to part.


    With a red face, Ruan Zhu said: ¡°You always hold me, making me embarrassed. I can walk by myself.¡±


    ¡°Oh, is that so?¡± Yun Shi Yi joked close to her ear: ¡°But I think my little wife is awfully delicate, hmm? Otherwise, why would you faint when doing that?¡±


    ¡°Doing what?¡± Ruan Zhu was flabbergasted before remembering the 3P incident from last night. She couldn¡¯t help but be ashamed and buried her face in his chest.


    Yun Shi Yi laughed, his heart filled to the brim with happiness.


    Once off the carriage, Ruan Zhu walked next to Yun Shi Yi, matching him stride for stride, seemingly as if they were casually strolling through a forest or other scenic location. Seeing them, Yun Shi Wei became envious. He threw the horsewhip to the side at Xiao Feng, before eagerly going to join in the fun.


    Having just crossed over, Ruan Zhu was curious about everything, even running over to look at the plowed lands of the ancient era. Yun Shi Yi could only think of her as a city girl that had never come to the countryside before. Taking the initiative, he explained various aspects of farming, such as how much land could be plowed in a day, and how much grass the cows needed to be fed.


    ¡°How is it that you know all of this? Are you not the young master of the Yun family?¡± Although it¡¯s too far-fetched to say there was no need to fend for oneself,[a] his life shouldn¡¯t have required this knowledge, right? Ruan Zhu had thought young masters in the ancient period were all like Jia Bao Yu,[b] adored and protected in their warm homes where even the slightest hint of a cold would be cause for concern. Of course, there were exceptions to this sheltered lifestyle, but it would be rare to find an heir that even understood farming matters.


    The tenant farmers treated Yun Shi Yi very respectfully. ¡°Young Master¡¯s Wife doesn¡¯t know this but from a young age, Young Master loved to do all kinds of farming-related duties. It was Young Master that improved the plow that we use, making it more convenient and simple.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was not used to being called the ¡®young master¡¯s wife¡¯. Every time she¡¯s addressed as such, it reminds her that she¡¯s married and that her husband wasn¡¯t just one man.


    When they had almost arrived at the Yun manor, she became so tired that she couldn¡¯t walk anymore, and could only rest in the carriage.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s parents had long sent a large group of the younger generation to wait for them by the road.


    The Yun family is very large, with seven large buildings totaling over a hundred rooms. However, this only accounted for Yun Shi Yi¡¯s parents¡¯ residence as the numerous uncles that left to start from scratch weren¡¯t included in this estimate. Thus, around twenty people total lived in this residence with fifty or sixty servants.


    Ruan Zhu first paid respects to the Yun parents and presented her gifts for them before handing them out to the remainder of the concubines. Strictly speaking, the female stallions of this world were in no way outdone by the men of her previous world.


    Her mother-in-law had five titled husbands, four untitled bed warmers, and seventeen or eighteen children, with the youngest still being held at her bosom. Ruan Zhu was dazzled as all the twins and other multiple birth children looked the same. Later, she listened to Yun Shi Yi introduce everyone while nodding. As for who was who, the names went in her left ear and out the other.


    After dinner, everyone sat in the living room, snacking on tea and refreshments. Madam Yun held Ruan Zhu¡¯s hand while shedding tears: ¡°It has been over twenty years since I left home to marry in Lan Zhou. I have been meaning to return for a while, but never had the chance. How is everyone doing?¡±


    Sitting next to her, Master Yun comforted her: ¡°Didn¡¯t the letter Zhu Zhu brought over say that all in the family was well? If you are still worried, this husband will accompany you to return to your maternal home once all the fields are plowed.¡±


    Madam Yun sighed: ¡°There¡¯s still a large family matter to handle, how could there be time?¡±


    Ruan Zhu rummaged in her mind for any remaining information related to the Ruan family. Picking up the teapot and refilling the cup in front of Madam Yun, Ruan Zhu smiled: ¡°Paternal grandfather, paternal grandmother, and Father have all kept worrying about Paternal Aunt. Before this niece left, they specially instructed that this niece must pay respect and give their regards to Paternal Aunt, and to become a good wife for Yun family.¡±


    Madam Yun cheered up a little and patted her hand. ¡°This little mouth is so sweet. You have been wedded for how many days now, you should be calling me ¡®Husband¡¯s Mother¡¯ instead.¡±


    Ruan Zhu pouted: ¡°That¡¯s such an alienating term, I¡¯d rather call you ¡®mother-in-law¡¯.¡±


    Madam Yun beamed with joy: ¡°Good, just call me mother-in-law then. It is still females that act the most intimate.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei made full use of his status as a secondary husband. When eating, he selected dishes for Ruan Zhu and placed them in her bowl. When having refreshments, he poured the tea for her. Seeing this, the third son of Yun family sneered: ¡°Our Second Brother has truly forgotten about Mother after receiving a wife. I¡¯ve never seen you treat Mother this well before.¡± These two brothers did not share the same father, so from a young age, they did not have much interaction. Due to this, there were also few instances of them fighting.


    Yun Shi Wei was not skilled with words and preferred to use his fists when angry while holding on to grudges. Hearing Third Brother trying to sow dissension, he was so furious he was about to hurl abuse. But then he heard Eldest Brother Yun Shi Yi smiling: ¡°Who told Shi Wei to copy Father, hmm? A father taking care of the mother of the family is right and proper. But Third Brother being a secondary husband¡¯s child naturally won¡¯t understand this principle.¡±


    The ¡®father¡¯ Yun Shi Yi mentioned could only be one person¨CYun family¡¯s legitimate husband, Master Yun. No matter how many men Madam Yun has, or how many children she gives birth to, the position of the official husband was unshakable and all the children had to address the legitimate husband as ¡®father¡¯. Yun Shi Yi¡¯s words not only cleared the situation but also mocked Third Brother for being concubine-born, thus without knowledge.


    Knowing Yun family¡¯s eldest son was extremely favored, Third Son¡¯s heart became resentful but didn¡¯t dare express it outwards. Madam Yun had previously never liked her third son, so she glared at him: ¡°You useless brat, you even dare to speak in this place and you still haven¡¯t left?!¡±


    Concubine-born sons in feudal times generally had no status, but who told him to be so foolish? Ruan Zhu had not the slightest amount of sympathy.


    [a] ʮָ²»Õ´Ñô´ºË®; idiom, to lead a pampered life


    [b] ¼Ö±¦Óñ, main character of Dream of the Red Chamber (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 6 - Visiting (2)

    Glossary


    [1] ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Actually, the third son of the Yun family, Wu Bin, was not surnamed ¡®Yun¡¯ as he used his father¡¯s last name. The reason he is called the Yun family¡¯s Third Young Master is out of convenience and to give the Masters of the Yun house some face. However, on the household register, his surname must be listed as ¡®Wu¡¯. Males have lesser statuses than females, especially since the former could become concubines of the latter, so Tian Chu permitted this type of naming to carry on each ancestral line.


    Fourth Husband Wu¡¯s heart felt stifled at seeing his son lose face and could only carefully cover for him: ¡°Bin¡¯er[1] is very filial. Last night, he even brought up the idea for me to visit my maternal family while he oversees the Yun shops in my absence.¡±


    He boasted about his own son while revealing the plan he had long been mulling over. The year he entered the Yun residence as a secondary husband, he also brought a property deed with him. Due to Tian Chu¡¯s law, all assets and properties belonging to the husband are transferred to the wife after marriage. This meant that no matter how much property one accumulates, it is not guaranteed that one¡¯s son will have the same assets in the future. Which son gained what property depended on who is most pleasing to the eyes of the wife. But in this case, the eldest son Yun Shi Yi was an exception as all the Yun businesses were his.


    Master Yun shot a cynical glance at the Fourth Master. So he had this early on already prepared for his son¡¯s future. But the Yun family held a multitude of properties and businesses, and the number of shops wasn¡¯t considered to be few. Master Yun also didn¡¯t mind letting concubine-born sons manage one or two of them. If they end up earning a great deal, it would cause him to lose a considerable stream of money. However, he would also gain a magnanimous reputation. As Madam Yun was hesitating, he said: ¡°Bin¡¯er wanting to achieve something is naturally a good thing. Wangyue Teahouse[a] outside of Lan Zhou¡¯s Xicheng district is prosperous. Let¡¯s have him manage it. Manager Li is getting old and it is time for this husband to look for a replacement. How about we let Bin¡¯er learn the weekly affairs for a few months before having him take over?¡±


    Madam Yun had always listened to Master Yun¡¯s advice, thus said: ¡°Then we¡¯ll do it this way.¡±


    Fourth Husband Wu was overjoyed and quickly gave his son a meaningful look. Wu Bin immediately stood up and kowtowed in thanks to the two masters of the Yun family: ¡°Many thanks to Father, many thanks to Mother.¡± Once he starts managing the business, there would be various benefits. Although he was not courageous enough to embezzle funds, the social and material advantages gained from meeting those arriving, sending those departing[b] for one year would be enough to support upwards of five or six years of monthly income. If he¡¯s mixed in enough socially, he might even be able to wed a girl of some family, and maybe even become the legitimate husband. Unless the family is very poor, all concubine-born children will think of clinging onto legitimate-born children because how many of them would want to live a hard life?


    Master Yun faintly said: ¡°Learn well from Manager Li. Doing well will be a big benefit for you. If you don¡¯t do well, return home and just live as a parasite!¡±


    Wu Bin saluted: ¡°Many thanks for Father¡¯s teachings. This son will definitely study hard.¡±


    Madam Yun¡¯s mood turned for the better and continued to gossip with Ruan Zhu: ¡°This daughter-in-law of mine, you don¡¯t have to do too much. Brewing tea, cooking¡­the feminine arts can be left to the servants. But having children is very important. It doesn¡¯t matter if it¡¯s a boy or a girl, both are good. Female children can expand the family while male children can inherit their ancestral businesses. Hurry and give Mother a grandson, oh, but of course the first child being a granddaughter would be even better.¡±


    Madam Yun had a frank nature¨Cwhatever she thought, she would say. In front of others, she wouldn¡¯t avoid such a taboo subject, causing Ruan Zhu¡¯s face to turn bright red. Ruan Zhu thought to herself: This mother-in-law¡¯s personality is just like Shi Wei¡¯s. But of course, like mother, like son. In that case, Shi Yi should resemble his father, almost like it was planned from the start. They¡¯re clearly twins from the same mother, but their two temperaments couldn¡¯t be any more different.


    ¡°I understand, Mother.¡± With a red face, Ruan Zhu quietly responded. In her mind she started worrying about sleeping at night. Will it be 3P or one on one?


    In the ancient era, meals were eaten twice a day. After everyone drank tea for a while, Madam Yun soon afterwards sent her eldest and second eldest sons to take Ruan Zhu to rest. Yun Shi Yi led Ruan Zhu towards his own residence, Wutong Building[c]. While walking, he said: ¡°Fourth Father only has Third Brother as his child so he will inevitably indulge him. You should know that managing this store is not something that can be done by an ordinary person.¡± One type of knowledge was the awareness necessary to do business. Without originality and tolerance, suffering a loss was unavoidable. The amount of meticulous care he had spent to start Tianyi Pavilion and amass a profit was not little.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s little hand was being held by him. The more they walked, the more ill at ease he felt, but he concealed his moodiness by saying: ¡°I saw Father did not pay it any mind so you don¡¯t have to worry either. Anyway, it has nothing to do with us. The Yun family¡¯s properties are so large and numerous, let¡¯s not care about the success and failure of a single shop!¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s true!¡±


    Yun Shi Wei pouted: ¡°Based on Third Brother¡¯s virtue, I don¡¯t believe he¡¯ll be able to manage the shop. But it would be good if he failed as then he would never be able to raise his head again in Mother¡¯s presence.¡± He understood Wu Bin held wide ambitions but lacked talent.


    Yun Shi Yi called him over: ¡°Why are you here? Why haven¡¯t you returned to your Jian Garden[d]?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei loved martial arts and gave his residence a gorgeously unruly name. Although it¡¯s called ¡®Jian Garden¡¯, the weapon he wields is actually a staff. The way he uses his wrought iron staff is in such a strong yet new style, that even the Master of the institution that taught him praised him endlessly. He was stunned silly at hearing his eldest brother having the intention to drive him away: ¡°Zhu Zhu is also my wife. For what reason are you monopolizing her?¡±


    These two brothers are always fighting each other for my affection, but whatever, it has nothing to do with me! Ruan Zhu¡¯s white neck drooped as she worried over this evening¡¯s 3P. Shi Wei not being here was for the best as she really didn¡¯t have the courage to be intimate with one man while another sat on the sidelines as if watching a play.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget I am the legitimate husband. Hurry and obediently return. Tomorrow, it¡¯ll be your turn.¡± Yun Shi Yi had sensed that if Second Brother was present during times of intimacy, his wife¡¯s face would become unusually colored.


    It feels like I¡¯m merchandise! Ruan Zhu miserably thought. The ¡®one woman, multiple husbands¡¯ system was so troubling. How did ancient Chinese men with three wives and four concubines do it? She should learn from them, ah.


    ¡°No. I want today. You can have tomorrow.¡± Yun Shi Wei insisted.


    Yun Shi Yi coldly glanced at him before grabbing Ruan Zhu¡¯s waist with both arms. Using a little strength, he lifted her up into his embrace before walking towards his Wutong Building.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you just relying on the fact that you¡¯re the eldest?¡± From his back came Yun Shi Wei¡¯s exasperated voice.


    Ruan Zhu was carried by Yun Shi Yi into Wutong Building. She saw that on both sides were planted masses of large Chinese parasol trees. Not only was it beautiful, it would also be a great place to cool off on hot days. The courtyard had four main rooms that didn¡¯t feature elaborate engravings but still gave off a simple and imposing air. On either side of the building were side wings that most likely were meant for the servants.


    ÎàÍ© | Wutong | Chinese parasol tree (Wikipedia)


    All the courtyard¡¯s servants had received word that their master had returned, thus went to pay respects. There were about five or six of them and they were all male. Because Tian Chu¡¯s female population was so small, very few women would choose to sell themselves as servants unless they really had no choice. As a result, female servants were rare and also incredibly expensive. On the other hand, male servants were very cheap and were also the preferred gender of choice for wealthy families.


    ¡°Prepare a bath.¡±


    While ordering the servants, Yun Shi Yi brought his wife into the main room.


    Ruan Zhu was placed on top of a frame bed covered with a snowy white brocade mattress. Carefully scrutinizing it, she found the bed was simpler than the one in the Yun residence in Lan Zhou and also lacked the exquisite aesthetic the latter had. But she could see that both of them were made out of very costly red sandalwood that ordinary families would not be able to use. This value could be compared to her previous world¡¯s BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Looking around the bedroom, she could see calligraphy hanging on the walls and all sorts of rare curios, such as the famed guqin and swords, on the tables¡­.


    One style of frame bed | ¼Ü×Ó´²


    Another style of frame bed | ¼Ü×Ó´²


    (¹Å)ÇÙ | (Gu)qin | Classical Chinese instrument with seven strings (Wikipedia)


    The Yun residence in Lan Zhou was also arranged like this, but she had been too overwhelmed from crossing over last night to appreciate the aesthetics of her surroundings.


    While she was looking around, she noticed Yun Shi Yi had been staring at her without blinking and couldn¡¯t help but become shy: ¡°What are you watching me for?¡±


    ¡°Wife is very beautiful.¡±


    This transition from calling her ¡®Zhu Zhu¡¯ to ¡®wife¡¯ was really too fast! She felt a little apprehensive but then saw him leaning down to kiss her¡­..Nervousness set in but she soon became intoxicated. Hooking her arms behind his neck, she started to reciprocate.


    After a long while, his lips finally left hers, both of them breathing hard. She had thought that he would stop but he then kissed her neck and started slowly trailing downwards.


    ¡°Haven¡¯t¡­.I haven¡¯t bathed yet.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi stopped his kisses, his eyes filled with a smile: ¡°All right. This husband will serve wife to bathe before giving wife a massage. It seems wife is also looking forward to¡­.¡±


    [a] ÍûÔ²èÂ¥ Full Moon Teahouse


    [b] Ó­À´ËÍÍù; idiom, all time taken over with social events


    [c] ÎàÍ©¹Ý | Wutong Building | Chinese Parasol Tree Building


    [d] ½£Ô° | Jian Garden | (Double-Edged) Sword Garden

 Chapter 7 - Bath

    ¡°I don¡¯t need you for this. I¡¯m fine by myself.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was red as she continued to refuse, but Yun Shi Yi ignored her, removing her outer clothes, then her inner clothes, even her dudou[a]¡­..With practiced movements, he easily took off all her clothes to reveal her naked body. Being extremely shy, she rolled herself into the blankets, and pulled the brocade quilt over her head, revealing only her eyes and sneakily looked at him. What entered her eyes was the straight and sturdy figure of his already erect ¡õ, revealing a man¡¯s tempting charm.


    She visually assessed him. He looked around 180 centimeters tall[b] but as he was currently only 20 years old, there was still the chance for him to grow a little taller in the next year or so. She then thought of his other qualities. He¡¯s intelligent, rich, and considerate towards girls (Well, she wasn¡¯t too sure how he is towards other females, but he definitely treats her very well). Tall, wealthy, attractive¨CThis sort of excellent man would most definitely have been very popular in her past world. Who knows how many women would have regarded him as their Prince Charming?


    While Ruan Zhu was having these random thoughts, Yun Shi Yi took off the brocade quilt covering her before wrapping her up in another blanket. Holding her in his embrace: ¡°Wife, this husband will take you to bathe.¡±


    The bathing room was near the bedroom and the bathtub was about 2 square meters, enough to accommodate two people with plenty of room to spare. Two half-naked servant boys stood by the side, their upper body exposed while a towel encircled their waist.


    Ruan Zhu glanced at them briefly and wanted to cry. She had just gotten rid of a Yun Shi Wei yet here came two more. Could it be that even baths had to be spied on? Is this era respecting or mocking women?


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes swept across Ruan Zhu, catching the depressed flash in her eyes. Smiling faintly, he waved at the two servants: ¡°Leave us.¡± Hm, his little wife was shy but this also suited him as he was not willing to share her delicate beauty with anyone else.


    ¡°Understood, Eldest Young Master.¡±


    The two servant boys¡¯ eyes flashed with disappointment. They were both young and vigorous young males and inevitably harbored thoughts towards the opposite sex. Hearing their Master¡¯s command, they dared not go against it. After bowing in respect, they snuck a glance at the beautiful woman in their Master¡¯s arms and left, crestfallen.


    Yun Shi Yi took off the blanket covering Ruan Zhu, immediately exposing the girl¡¯s beautiful figure right in front of his eyes. In a split second, his pupils contracted and became even darker. Practically trembling, he held her while entering the bath.


    The two of them bathed in the clear, warm water with their bodies plastered together. The man¡¯s warm body and breath caused her to become a little bewildered. He leaned against one side of the bathtub while she sat on top of his legs. There was a huge rod under his belly that was against her buttocks, which caused her to be alarmed and not dare to move. Even though she was a little afraid, she wasn¡¯t very concerned about chastity. It was true that she had never been pursued in her past world, but she wouldn¡¯t have minded offering her entirety to a man she loved. After crossing over, and onto a bed no less, she had rolled in the sheets with two men, though she had thought it was a dream at the time.


    Her chest felt a little tight, and it was because his hands were playing with her two mounds. Sometimes gently rubbing, other times using a little force to pull at her two tender buds. She lowly gasped and looked at her pair of plentiful white peaks being molded into various strange shapes by his hands.


    She had long been his, or at least, this body had long been his. In that case, what did she have to be shy for? She didn¡¯t know what the previous Ruan Zhu was like, but the current her with him really was considered ¡®social climbing¡¯.


    Yun Shi Yi lowered his head, looking at his little wife¡¯s expression. The young maiden enshrouded in mist looked all the more charming. Her tender and smooth skin shone with a hazy gloss while her pure white mounds in front of her chest were perfectly level with the water and slightly trembling. He inhaled sharply and buried his head in her chest, grasping the red plum he had played with earlier in his mouth. It had the same delicious taste as before and he carefully sucked and teased. Before he married, his father had passed on to him the secret arts; therefore, he knew what to do in order to satisfy his wife¡¯s needs and securely establish himself among her multitude of husbands.


    He alternated between her two tender flower buds, kissing and sucking on them, drawing the pure sweetness that only belonged to her into his mouth. This taste was sweeter than any wine he had ever drunk before, causing him to be deeply intoxicated.


    One of his hands traveled downwards, reaching the spot that was already prepared for him. His fingers brought the girl¡¯s rich and fragrant liquid into his mouth for a taste, and his eyes swirled even deeper with lust. Unable to hold himself back anymore, he stretched her body across his two legs. Finding the slit between her thighs that was moist because of him, he entered her.


    ¡°Ah¡­..¡±


    The moment Ruan Zhu and Yun Shi Yi combined into one, they simultaneously called out and held each other tighter.


    His cry was one out of joy and pleasure yet her groan was out of pain as she hadn¡¯t expected him to be so big. The thing in her lower abdomen felt as if it was poking into her stomach, nearly causing it to flip over. It was even more uncomfortable than when she was intimate with Yun Shi Wei last night. Her two hands grabbed onto his muscular upper arms, her nails piercing into his skin. A look of suffering was on her face as she pleaded with him for mercy.


    He couldn¡¯t bear to see her in pain so he slowed his movements. Supporting her butt with his hands, he let her slowly get used to his size as she wished. Gradually, she became mesmerized with pleasure, welcoming him and demanding more.


    Realizing this, his movements became quicker. The moment the ultimate peak came, she screamed and clung to his neck while he released inside her, holding onto her slim waist. The two of them panted for air.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin¡­¡± Ruan Zhu tenderly moaned as she collapsed on top of him. Her chest continued to move up and down as she remained in the afterglow of their intimacy.


    ¡°Wife, did you like that?¡± He murmured next to her ear. This was the second time he completed the rite between husband and wife, so there no nervousness and uncertainty unlike the first time. The pleasure simply made him feel as if he was flying among clouds. It turns out a man and woman combining into one was such a wonderful feeling. He could feel the ecstasy in his bones and it was like he was in seventh heaven.


    She nodded her head, too ashamed to say it out loud.


    ¡°Do you want more?¡± His gentle voice flowed into her ears like a warm wind.


    She looked at him in surprise. More? He still has the strength for more? Her whole body was limp and in pain, unable to summon even the smallest amount of strength, but he was fine?


    He didn¡¯t know whether he should laugh or cry. Did she really think her husband could only do it once? ¡°This husband would like to change position¡­.¡±


    Another position! She thought a bit. In this tub, what other position could there be? If she lies down, she¡¯ll choke on the water. But then he lifted and turned her around so that her bright and clean back was towards him. He had her kneel in the tub, supporting herself by grabbing onto the tub¡¯s edges. Then lifting up her derriere, he entered her from behind.


    ¡°Oh¡­.¡± She felt a foreign object entering her and instinctively clamped down.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­Wife, you¡¯re such a seductress.¡± Yun Shi Yi gritted his teeth, sticking closely to her, not leaving a single gap. Then he began to move, with each thrust becoming more and more fierce, as if skewering her.


    She arched her waist, letting the man behind her have a better grip and letting him do whatever he pleased. She matched his enthusiasm, while moaning delicately.


    This time, his stamina was very strong. She had already came twice before he once again climaxed inside her.


    Her whole body was covered with sweat, her soft-as-clouds beautiful hair was also entirely soaked. She laid in his embrace, eyes closed, without even the strength to lift a finger. If it wasn¡¯t for her eyelashes softly moving from time to time, he would have thought she had fainted again.


    After washing her clean, he couldn¡¯t help but fondle her white snowy peaks. Consequentially, he discovered that the blood flow he had just managed to quiet down rapidly flowed again. His little brother once again stood erect, challenging his rationality.


    He resentfully pressed it down but it refused to stay put, loftily opposing him and bouncing back up. Expressionless, he decided to ignore it. Using the blanket from earlier, he wrapped his small wife in it and bridal carried her into the bedroom.


    [a] ¶Ç¶µ, traditional Chinese inside garment resembling a modern halter-top (Wikipedia)


    [b] 180 cm is about 5¡¯9¡å

 Chapter 8 - The Night Has a Thick Atmosphere

    Glossary


    [1] î | mao | one of the ancient Chinese two-hour periods; designated for 5-7 AM


    At this moment, in a spacious room within another courtyard of the Yun residence, Madam Yun was being attended to by a group of her husbands. Even though she was a mother that had already birthed over ten children, she was only thirty-five years old but looked much younger as she has properly maintained her appearance. Her figure was not fat or thin¨Cit was just right. Her face had not even one wrinkle. This was the age where a woman was most elegant and charming.


    ¡°All of you can leave!¡±


    Madam Yun was drenched in sweat, gesturing for her secondary husbands to leave. Upon hearing her order, the secondary husbands glanced at each other before rising and dressing. Bowing, they all left the room.


    ¡°Are you all right?¡± Master Yun held a towel in his hand, preparing to wipe her body. Like his two sons, this husband was equally eye-catching. Although he was already forty years old, he still had an imposing appearance and a tall and straight physique from his many years of martial arts practice.


    Madam Yun weakly sighed: ¡°To be a female means satisfying all you foul men. If I show even the slightest bias, the inner courtyard will erupt again.¡±


    ¡°It is not as serious as you are making it to be.¡± Master Yun finished wiping down his wife and laid next to her, pulling the brocade quilt over them: ¡°We have already been married for over twenty years now and our children have settled down. After two years we can transfer the household affairs to daughter-in-law to manage, leaving us to play with our grandchildren and enjoy being with the family. My biggest regret in this life was that we were not able to have a daughter. If only we had a daughter that was pretty like you, then all would be good.¡± Even if a secondary husband fathered a female child, he would not mind raising her as his own. A daughter that he raised from a young age was about the same as one that was his own flesh and blood. However, the Heavens continued to oppose him.


    ¡°Daughter-in-law is not bad. I think Zhu Zhu, that child, is very good. Appearance is beautiful, mouth is sweet, she really is from my maternal family.¡± After saying this, Madam Yun sighed again: ¡°Us not having any daughters is something that cannot be changed just because we demand it to. Speaking of, I am also envious. My eldest brother¡¯s family has eight children, of which three are female. Our family just isn¡¯t as blessed.¡±


    Master Yun swept aside his wife¡¯s hair on her forehead: ¡°It is not too late to have another child. Let us try for a daughter!¡±


    ¡°You think it¡¯s that easy to have a daughter?¡± Madam Yun side-eyed him. ¡°What happens if it¡¯s a son?¡±


    ¡°A son is also fine. Shi Yi and Shi Wei[a] having a full brother is also very good.¡± Concubine-born children will forever feel estranged from legitimate-born children so their feelings towards each other will differ by quite a bit.


    ¡°They are all my children.¡± Madam Yun was not pleased with his choice of words.


    ¡°I know. I just merely want to have children with you.¡± Master Yun lost his smile as his thoughts turned. Frowning, he asked: ¡°There is another thing. Is it not time Zhu Zhu accepted another secondary husband?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ve just married. Why are you so anxious?¡± Madam Yun looked at him, flabbergasted.


    ¡°Did you forget how your last concubine entered our family?¡± Master Yun¡¯s eyes flashed with melancholy. ¡°I do not want my sons to be unhappy like how we were.¡±


    The ¡®last concubine¡¯ Master Yun was referring to is Fifth Husband Zhao. Before he became a secondary husband of the Yun family, he already had had an affair with another woman so his reputation was not good. Although he was already twenty-five years old, there were not many that were interested in him. It was precisely because he had some kind of a familial relationship with Lan Zhou¡¯s prefectural magistrate that the latter forcibly made him enter the Yun family. Madam Yun was unable to refuse his entrance and could only blame her bad luck. Furthermore, because of the national law, she was forced to birth his children no matter how unwilling she was.


    Tian Chu¡¯s national law stipulated that every female had to have at least five husbands in her lifetime. If by the time she was twenty and had yet to meet the requirements, the local government office would send her the remaining men necessary. At the upper levels of society, this policy was implemented very well, but the government offices rarely paid attention to the impoverished women at the lower rungs of society. If they did notice, they would at most only send local men that were either extremely poor, suffering from illness, or even ones near death¡¯s door. The results were even worse. Some of these sent men would then be forced by their female counterparts to engage in strenuous physical labor, causing them to die early deaths.


    Madam Yun hesitated: ¡°They are still only newly wed. It¡¯s not good to accept another secondary husband this fast. Besides, Zhu Zhu is only fifteen years old.¡±


    ¡°Anyhow, we still have to be cautious. The year Fifth Husband Zhao was sent over, you had yet to reach twenty years of age. Rather than being conferred an unknown man with low status, they will be better off selecting a pure man from a good family.¡± Master Yun brought his wife into his arms and lowered his head to plant kiss after kiss on her chest. Raising his head, he asked: ¡°Do you still want to?¡±


    Madam Yun was toyed with until her whole body was burning up once again. Smiling, she nodded her head.


    Following that, the two of them rolled in the sheets again. At the end, Master Yun was satisfied and drew her into his embrace: ¡°My biggest blessing in this lifetime was being married to you, my wife. Our family has grown larger and our sons have also married. Shi Yi is mature but Shi Wei¡¯s temperament makes me worry. Fortunately, he has followed his brother and will not suffer any grievances. He has been given the position of a secondary husband, so just let him be a secondary husband. With his disposition, if he was the legitimate husband, it would be quite troublesome if he was to be ignored by the wife one day.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you originally think of this, which is why you placed the two brothers together?¡± Madam Yun yawned. ¡°Let¡¯s sleep. It¡¯s the busy spring season and there¡¯s still a lot of work to do tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Nn.¡±


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Wutong Building.


    Ruan Zhu was not used to rising early. In her previous world, it was even possible for her to sleep until noon on days off. But here, that was not possible. At the time of mao[1] (6 AM), she was woken by the night watch signaling the time. Slowly blinking her drowsy eyes, she desperately wanted to go back to sleep but then suddenly remembered that she had crossed over. She immediately sat up but then found herself being tightly held by Yun Shi Yi.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, hurry and let me go. I¡¯m going to be late¡­..ah, no¡­.¡± Ruan Zhu wanted to bite off her own tongue. ¡°I mean¡­ I should hurry and pay respects to Mother.¡±


    This was the case in the ancient eras with daughter-in-laws paying respects to their mother-in-law. She knew of this custom from seeing it portrayed on TV shows. Although the country of Tian Chu is unfounded, many of its practices were similar to ones found in ancient Chinese eras. She suspected that there was a turning point in one of China¡¯s historical dynasties that caused space-time to be disrupted, creating this current world. But if she wanted to know the truth, she would first have to find a book detailing the history of this country.


    ¡°Mother won¡¯t mind. Anyway, the time is still early.¡± The corner of Yun Shi Yi¡¯s mouth lifted into a smile. He hugged her soft and sweet-smelling body, making his whole body burn with anger[b]. He did not sleep well last night but didn¡¯t have the heart to disturb her rest.


    ¡°Was last night too tiring?¡±


    Ruan Zhu recalled yesterday evening¡¯s bathing situation and shook her head with a red face. Disliking how stuffy she felt being so tightly held in his embrace, she wanted to push him aside a little, but he ended up holding her even closer. A solid thing kept rubbing under the shy girl¡¯s intimate area. She obviously knew what his meaning was, but this was weird. Why did he seem so discontent? Did he not enjoy himself fully last night? As she was thinking, his hands had grasped her chest, one hand on each peak. He kneaded them for a while then moved to rubbing her two flower buds. Slightly closing his eyes, he sighed in satisfaction: ¡°A woman¡¯s body really is wonderful. It can actually be this mesmerizing¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Eldest Cousin¡­.¡± Her voice was like a mosquito¡¯s hum.


    ¡°Why not call me husband-lord or Groom Yun? Consort is also fine.¡±


    She really wanted to say: How sappy! But his head was suddenly buried in her chest. He had opened his mouth, grabbed a bud, and sucked hard. ¡°Oh¡­.¡± She delicately moaned. The areas he stimulated turned limp. Not able to bear it any longer, she pushed herself closer to his mouth.


    He knew this was enough to awaken her enthusiasm, having received lessons before on this regard. After looking through books and drawings related to this topic, he understood where a female was most sensitive. He utilized the practical knowledge he had gained from a few days ago to cause her to feel wave after wave of pleasure.


    Because he needed her, it was only after she felt satisfied before she would be more willing to accept him.


    His blazing hot tongue left the already stiff flower bud and wrapped around the other bud that was unwilling to be left out. Using his teeth, he gently bit the red plum, sometimes grinding it, other times pulling it. His rough hands kept moving around her sensitive body. At every location he touched, passionate fire erupted on her skin. Then at her most sensitive area, his fingers found a small grain, making her lose her mind¡­¡­.His fingers continued to press on it, gently twirling it¡­¡­..


    ¡°Ah¡­¡­.¡± The place he was fiddling with caused her to experience something like an electric current rushing from her inner thighs to her brain, causing her to suddenly jump with intense pleasure. Her entire body trembled and arched as her legs clamped shut, holding his hand in place.


    But at that moment, he completed stopped all of his movements and looked at her with a face full of expectations.


    ¡°You¡­¡­Eldest Cousin¡­¡­¡± Her body felt so frighteningly hollow. Her skin was flushed and covered with bright drops of sweat. She used her eyes to pitifully beg him.


    ¡°Wife, did you like that?¡± His voice was filled with temptation, his eyes was filled with deep emotion: ¡°If you liked it, then come sit on this husband.¡±


    Her eyes traveled downwards and saw his enormous manhood. She understood his meaning but her white neck sagged as she slightly hesitated.


    ¡°Be good and listen to me.¡± He softly coaxed her. A few days ago, he had seen this position on a drawing and had become deeply fascinated ever since. More than once, he had imagined how it would feel to have her on top.


    She glanced at him before shyly nodding. Moving her limbs, she lifted her leg to straddle his thick waist. Aiming for his long-swollen huge rod, she very slowly sat down¡­¡­As the foreign object entered her body, her body immediately and greedily absorbed it.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡­¡± His face unexpectedly became red. He used his hands to grab at her butt, strongly pushing their two bodies even closer together and said hoarsely: ¡°My wife, you are tormenting your husband to death¡­¡­¡±


    The husband and wife were in the midst of writing a beautiful chapter in their newly wed life when suddenly, from the door that connected the bedroom to the living room, pounding could be heard as if someone¡¯s life was at stake: ¡°Thudthudthud¡­.¡±


    Someone was here!


    Ruan Zhu stopped moving, so shocked she didn¡¯t know what to do, almost as if she had been caught having an affair.


    ¡°Who?¡± Yun Shi Yi furiously shouted, picking up a teapot from a table and throwing in the direction of the living room¡­¡­¡±Pa¡± The highest-grade silver porcelain with a famous inscription, valued at over one hundred taels, was destroyed just like this. Ruan Zhu was distressed. How much would this have cost in her past life¡¯s China? With just a tiny fraction of its sale, one semester¡¯s tuition would be covered.


    Although she didn¡¯t know the exact value of that teapot, there was one similar to it at their residence in Lan Zhou. Yesterday morning as Nuan Chun was carefully wiping it, Nuan Qing was at the side with a cautious expression, whispering an explanation regarding the teapot¡¯s origin.


    ¡°It¡¯s me, your younger brother. Already this time. yet you haven¡¯t gotten up yet. Hurry and get up to pay respects to Mother and Father.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei, you goddamned hothead!


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t have time to think and hurriedly tried to get off Yun Shi Yi¡¯s body, but he kept a tight grasp on her waist, pushing her downwards. She impatiently twisted her body in an effort to free herself. Hearing him groan in pleasure, she could only stay seated without moving, moving her lips silently: ¡°Let me get up!¡±


    [a] Author actually wrote ¡®Shi Yi and Yun Wei¡¯ but it should be a typo.


    [b] ÈÈѪ·ÐÌÚ, idiom, meaning blood is boiling and causing entire body to heat up. no, he¡¯s not actually angry

 Chapter 9 - Sunrise and Warm Feelings

    ¡°Still not getting up? It¡¯s already so light outside.¡± Yun Shi Wei shouted and another burst of sounds came from the door. Thud thud thud.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin¡­¡­¡± She yelled in a panic.


    Yun Shi Yi ignored her. His two hands grabbed onto the dainty figure currently straddling his own body and ruthlessly raised his waist in one stroke.


    ¡°It hurts!¡± Ruan Zhu screamed, bending her waist from pain and clutching the bed with her hands. Her eyes gleaming with unshed tears, she angrily looked at him: ¡°Gentler, you really hurt me.¡±


    ¡°What did you do to Zhu Zhu?! Open the door, hurry and open this door!¡± From outside the door came Yun Shi Wei¡¯s anxious shouts. Thud thud thud¡­..another round of fierce knocks sounded out again.


    All the servants of Wutong Building ran over from whatever they were doing, Xiao Feng and Xiao Shan at the forefront. Seeing it was their own second young master that was causing the disturbance, they all lost their heads out of fear. Second Young Master was not someone they could aggravate but inciting Eldest Young Master was absolutely out of the question. If this disruption was to cause the latter to lose his temper, they would all be severely punished.


    ¡°Second Young Master, do not pound the door anymore. If the door breaks, Eldest Young Master will become angry.¡± Xiao Feng was the first to persuade him: ¡°The consequences of this disturbance so early in the morning is not good. If the Master and Madam knew of this, Second Young Master may be punished.¡±


    Xiao Shan was worried that the Eldest Young Master would soon come out and start scolding. If that were to occur, he and the rest of the servants would also be punished and could only blame their bad luck. Unable to bear it any longer, he spoke with less tact that Xiao Feng: ¡°Second Young Master, do not blame this one for speaking out of turn. In Eldest Lady¡¯s eyes, you are merely a secondary husband. Which house will have a concubine like you, so courageous as to rush over so early to pound at the Eldest Lady¡¯s door?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei became furious and his eyes blazed with rage: ¡°Have you absolutely disgraceful slaves blinded your useless eyes? You dogs dare to look down at your family¡¯s Second Master?!¡± Not allowing any time for explanations, he lifted up a leg and aimed a kick at Xiao Shan¡¯s hip. Yun Shi Wei¡¯s large strength from practicing martial arts caused Xiao Shan to fly over two meters away. Fortunately, the servant boy had spent a few years learning Chinese boxing with his master, so he had a strong and healthy body. He would have most likely become disabled if it was not for that foundation. Even so, the kick caused Xiao Shan to collapse on the ground, unable to move.


    Xiao Feng was worried Xiao Shan would suffer even greater losses and nervously said in a manner meant to hug Yun Shi Wei¡¯s thigh: ¡°Second Master, Second Master, based on this servant¡¯s loyalty for so long, will this Master please be magnanimous and not lower oneself. Please spare his worthless life!¡±


    ¡°Humph. This time I¡¯ll pardon his worthless life. Next time he dares to babble nonsense, see if I don¡¯t ruin him and sell him off to a blind village beggar woman.¡±


    After Yun Shi Wei finished releasing his anger, he faced the door again.


    While all of this was occurring, the pair inside the room were immersed in their own world and didn¡¯t seem to notice the commotion outside. His eyes were glued to the dainty body that straddled his waist and to the nicely rounded pair of perky breasts that shook in tandem with his every thrust. The sight was especially alluring. The hazy sunlight streaming in through the curtains made it seem as if she was glowing, causing him to increasingly lose his mind.


    ¡°Wife, today, this husband will let you enjoy yourself fully.¡± Yun Shi Yi smiled evilly. His right hand moved down her body and found the small bead that drove her crazy. He pressed a finger down on it and gently pushed it around, while at the same time, thrusting his lower back ferociously upwards¡­¡­..


    ¡°Ah!¡± Ruan Zhu violently quivered and shrieked: ¡°Don¡¯t do that, hurry and remove your hand. I can¡¯t take it!¡±


    But the movements of the man underneath her did not stop. His left hand firmly held onto her waist, preventing her from escaping. His right hand continued to fiddle with her small bead. At the same time, his waist never stopped ramming upwards, becoming more and more violent with each and every stab.


    ¡°Ah, ah¡­¡­.let me go¡­¡­.I don¡¯t want¡­¡­..¡±


    Ruan Zhu repeatedly screamed in pain, but after a period of time, there was also a sort of numbness in addition to the frightening agony that she felt. It was like an electric current that started from her innermost regions and spread throughout her body in waves. She was not sure when it happened, but traces of pleasure started appearing amidst the soreness. The heat and the pain were both excruciating, but at the same time, she felt so comfortable that she could die.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s breathing was shaky and his face kept turning redder and redder. His eyes were misted over. He hated that he was unable to completely merge with the female on top of him, two into one, never separating for all of eternity. Fiddling with her tiny hand, he suddenly reached for her chest and grabbed hold of a plump roundness, ruthlessly squeezing and rubbing it, while his hips went against her wishes and increased their speed.


    Bang! The door was smashed open and a large silhouette walked in, shouting: ¡°Don¡¯t be scared Zhu Zhu, Second Cousin is here to save you.¡±


    The servants saw their second eldest master had broken through the door and entered the room. They could only look at each other. Based on the sounds of a man shouting and a female tantalizingly moaning, they didn¡¯t have to think to know what the people inside the room were doing.


    Tian Chu¡¯s population had a high ratio of men versus women so the more beautiful a female was, the more valuable she became. In the Yun family, excluding Madam Yun and a few elderly lady servants-cum-wet nurses, there were no other females, much less young females in their prime of their youth. These male servants were all young boys and at an age where they were the most vigorous. After only hearing a few sounds, their blood was boiling but no one had the courage to step into the room for a look.


    Xiao Feng was clever. Taking advantage of the fact that everyone else was still muddle-headed, he walked towards the entryway while sneakily glancing sideways. In the spacious living room, beyond the moon gate and behind a beaded curtain, what came into view was an absolutely beautiful female profile, curvy and exquisite, dainty beyond compare¡­¡­..He shook from head to toe, almost tumbling to the floor. In a hurry, he tightly closed the door, his heart palpitating. If his masters knew of what he had just done, he would not even have time to think about explaining to save his little life.


    ÔÂÁÁÃÅ | Moon gate (Wikipedia)


    Yun Shi Wei first entered the living room before arriving at the moon gate that connected to the bedroom. Pushing aside the beaded curtain, he rushed into the inner chamber.


    What entered his eyes was the image of a female sitting astride a man¡¯s waist. Her body was white and sparkling like snow, dainty to the extreme. A thin sheen of sweat covered her skin like a layer of hazy gloss. Her soft and ample chest jiggled incessantly with every violent movement from the man underneath her. It was as if his whole soul was being seduced and ecstasy was nibbling away at his bones.


    The two people inside the room were currently at the most anticipated part and didn¡¯t notice at all that someone had walked in. Even if they were aware, they would be unable to do anything about it.


    Yun Shi Wei foolishly stood there, staring blankly at the scene before him. His forehead was dotted with perspiration, eyes red with lust, and his breathing had sped up. The thing at his pants swelled to an uncomfortable degree and pushed against the seam of his trousers, as if at any moment if would spring out of its restraints.


    He unconsciously walked straight towards them, a trace of the female¡¯s unique scent entering his nostrils. The heavy fragrance caused him to become dazed for a split second. With trembling hands, he touched the two soft breasts. A limp feeling spread from the top of his body to his every pore. His brain went blank, devoid of any thoughts except of thoughts of her, only her.


    ¡°Why is it you, hurry and let me go¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu cried out in panic. She had suddenly felt pain at her chest but it turned out to be Yun Shi Wei, who had opened his mouth and taken hold of a flower bud. He gently scraped and bit at the tip with his teeth. ¡°Nn¡­..¡± Her chest trembled. Suddenly, she quivered as a flood of pleasure rushed out from her innermost areas and burst into innumerable sparks that lingered as her body spasmed uncontrollably.


    ¡°Ah, ah¡­¡­¡±


    She screamed. Her two legs restlessly moved on the bed as she continued to twitch incessantly. Covered with sweat, her entire body was soft and without strength, being held up by Yun Shi Wei, who flanked her.


    As she climaxed, her little alley squeezed, exponentially intensifying the pleasure, causing Yun Shi Yi to unable to remain calm. Eyes scarlet with lust, he roared and thrust his waist a few more times before abruptly stabbing viciously upwards, madly releasing the hot white fluid housed in his underbelly, his buttocks shuddering fiercely.


    ¡°Wife, wife¡­¡­¡± He loudly gasped for air, his entire body drenched with sweat.


    Ruan Zhu really was exhausted and collapsed in Yun Shi Wei¡¯s embrace. She breathlessly said: ¡°Second Cousin, let me go and get out quickly. What will the servants say when they see this?¡±


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, I am your secondary husband. It should be my turn now, right?¡± Yun Shi Wei lifted up his head from her bosom and asked with an unsteady voice. His two hands didn¡¯t stop stroking the place that gave him the greatest release.


    ¡°But I haven¡¯t prepared for it yet, so now is not a good time. Remove your hand and let me think for a bit. How about waiting until tomorrow night?¡±


    She had just crossed over so was unable to be like the girls of this era who believed the ¡°one woman, many husbands¡± protocol was absolutely fair and reasonable. She had received a very traditional Chinese education and the multi-thousand year policy of ¡®man is superior to woman¡¯ that she was so ingrained with, could not be so easily changed. She will learn to accept this world¡¯s customs and learn to accept him, but required time to do so.

 Chapter 10 - 3P

    Yun Shi Wei felt unsatisfied with her idea. ¡°Then what do I do about this?¡± He bent his waist to caress her body, using his already swollen ¡õ to prod at her midriff. He desperately wanted to sink into her flesh and into debauchery. If at this point she were to tell him to leave, he really doubted he would be able to move past this. His voice expressed his deep desire: ¡°Zhu Zhu, my wife. This husband needs you. Let me taste you once. You can¡¯t just satisfy Eldest Brother while ignoring me in the future. Look at this place¡­¡­¡± He placed her small hand on top of the protruding tent at his crotch. A small wet patch had already formed. The moment he felt the pressure from her soft hand, he felt as if he had been burned. His whole body shook and he continuously rubbed himself against her hand while his two hands squeezed her tighter in his embrace.


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t want him to suffer but she couldn¡¯t open up her heart. Her small hand was currently forced to touch him and she wasn¡¯t sure what action was best. In the past world, she had been treated so unfairly and had been neglected by both close relatives and those she considered to be friends. After crossing over, she had been showered by the brothers¡¯ attention and care. This caused her to feel grateful. In that case, shouldn¡¯t she do something to repay them?


    Yun Shi Yi noticed Ruan Zhu¡¯s hesitation but only thought of it as her being shy. He had been raised based on Tian Chu¡¯s principles so the idea of her reluctance being caused by other emotions never crossed his mind. He had previously always been strict with Shi Wei but that was only him being a responsible elder brother. Understanding Shi Wei¡¯s agony as he had also experienced it before, Yun Shi Yi murmured next to his wife¡¯s ear: ¡°How about giving him a hand? If you are embarrassed, this husband will assist you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu looked at him, astonished. Are all the men of this world so generous? It was possible to even give their loved one to another man? She of course did not understand Yun Shi Yi¡¯s way of thinking. He believed that the ¡®one woman, many husbands¡¯ policy was heaven¡¯s law and earth¡¯s principle and the Heavens assigned mankind the task of large-scale reproduction. Since childhood, he has been influenced by this ideology thus had never thought of monopolizing his wife.


    Yun Shi Yi held her from behind so she was in a posture similar to a child urinating and brought her in front of Yun Shi Wei. Her entrance was plainly visible and gently twitching from her previous intimacy with Yun Shi Yi. Seeing the object of his desire emerge in front of him, Yun Shi Wei¡¯s eyes burned with lust and he started untying his robes.


    She was a little afraid and looked towards the man behind her. He gently smiled and said: ¡°Don¡¯t be scared.¡± Lowering his head, he licked her red and moist lips, covering her mouth with his own. His tongue deftly pushed past her teeth and explored the inside of her small mouth, gently tracing the outline of her teeth while his lips continued to move on top of hers.


    Unexpectedly, his kissing skills had improved, causing her to be even more entranced than last time. ¡°Mm!¡± Her arms moved upwards, embracing his head and reciprocating his kiss. Suddenly ¡õ entered¨CShi Wei had inserted himself into her body. That enormous thing frantically thrusting into her delicate tunnel caused her tremendous pain. Does this bastard not understand what ¡®gentle¡¯ meant?


    Her face became white from pain and her legs that were wrapped around Yun Shi Wei¡¯s waist instinctively started thrashing around. Seeing her confused and panicking expression, Yun Shi Yi placed both hands on her white softness, kneading them. Their kiss became more intense. Sucking on her tongue for a taste, he robbed her of all the sweet saliva in her mouth, thinking, a woman¡¯s saliva was also this delicious. He couldn¡¯t help but to deepen their kiss even more.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s gentle treatment enabled her to break free from her previous nervousness. Her body loosened, allowing the man copulating with her to violently pound her with his enormous rod.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s face was flushed as if he had a layer of dark red mist on his skin. He unwaveringly stared at the beautiful body underneath him. Supporting his beloved woman¡¯s buttocks for easier access, he was like a spring, repeating the same movements.


    This truly was an exquisite feeling, and the inexperienced youngster was caught up in the newlywed atmosphere. He was performing a ritual that countless men and women have done since the beginning of time. Joy and suffering interweaved. Sweet happiness accumulated in his head, stimulating all of his organs. After a long time, a bright light went off in his head, forming fireworks that suddenly burst.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, Zhu Zhu, I¡­¡­¡± With a red face, he wildly bellowed out. Consecutively thrusting fiercely a few more times, he spurted his passion into her body.


    ¡°Ah!¡± She had suddenly been watered with his liquid and felt as if she had been burned. An earth shattering feeling overcame her and she quivered in response from head to toe. Perspiration dampened her cloud-like hair, and her whole body was dripping as if she had just been fished out of water.


    She collapsed in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s arms.


    Yet she found there was a pillar underneath her derriere that kept prodding her¨Cit was Yun Shi Yi¡¯s. She looked at it in horror. She already had no strength and couldn¡¯t bear another round of lovemaking.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my wife, Eldest Cousin won¡¯t force you.¡± Yun Shi Yi continued their kiss before licking her lips twice and moving away.


    Her insides were still full from a foreign object. She looked at Yun Shi Wei and whispered: ¡°Second Eldest, it¡¯s fine now.¡± She was too embarrassed to directly tell him to exit her so could only use hints.


    It was as if Yun Shi Wei hadn¡¯t heard her at all. Holding her tender and snowy buttocks, he moved a little inside, his breathing slightly shaky: ¡°Younger Cousin, Zhu Zhu, can we do it one more time?¡±


    Not possible, she was already so tired she wanted to die. Her eyes turned, as if begging for help from Yun Shi Yi.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. Zhu Zhu is already exhausted, let her rest.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi used a towel to wipe off the cloudy liquid inside her ¡õ. Gently picking her up, he placed her on the bed before pulling the brocade quilt over her body.


    Yun Shi Wei also entered the bed and laid down on Ruan Zhu¡¯s side. He positioned his arm over her body to embrace her.


    She was positioned so that she was between them. With eyes half closed, she looked at the two brothers. Regarding the fact that she was being pampered by two men, it was a little awkward, but she didn¡¯t regret it. Being able to receive their sincere affection was the greatest gift that the Heavens had given her. They love her, so she should also sincerely reciprocate.


    Her body was extremely exhausted and she was on the verge of falling into peaceful sleep when she suddenly remembered an important thing. Her expression became nervous.


    ¡°What is it, Wife?¡± Yun Shi Yi noticed her expression changed and ventured to ask her a question.


    ¡°Right now, I can¡¯t move. How will I be able to pay respects to Mother and Father later?¡± Ruan Zhu said worriedly. She was sore and limp from head to toe, without the strength to move her legs or her waist an inch. Her cervix was especially painful as the two brothers had pounded against it for so long. She suspected that it was all swollen inside.


    Yun Shi Wei chuckled: ¡°Father and Mother will not blame us. Zhu Zhu, don¡¯t worry. Your Second Cousin is here for everything.


    Yun Shi Yi attached himself to her lips and kissed her for a bit: ¡°Father and Mother are magnanimous. In a while, I¡¯ll let Shi Wei go report our fault.¡±


    ¡°Why is it me?¡± Yun Shi Wei shouted, bewildered. He also wanted to accompany Ruan Zhu. To be away from her for even a short while caused his heart to feel uncomfortably itchy.


    ¡°Who told you to be the younger brother? For your legs and feet to be slower than mine at birth?¡± Yun Shi Yi hooked up a corner of his mouth, his words impolite.


    ¡°I was only later by half a quarter of an hour and gained a lifetime of unluckiness.¡± Yun Shi Wei was so miserable he wanted to run into the wall: ¡°Not only am I to resign myself to being a secondary husband, but I also have to listen to your orders. I¡¯m not even allowed time to spend with my spouse.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi disdainfully said: ¡°I treat you pretty well. Look at all of Mother¡¯s secondary husbands. Who among them is not obedient? Not only do they listen to her orders, they also have to behave in front of Father. Zhu Zhu¡­¡± Yun Shi Yi turned his head towards Ruan Zhu, saying: ¡°In the future, you don¡¯t have to treat Shi Wei well. If he ever misbehaves, give him the punishment of having to kneel at the doorstep.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei hurriedly said: ¡°Zhu Zhu, don¡¯t listen to him. Don¡¯t you know how evil he is? That Ma Cui Yun originally didn¡¯t like me but him. It was because she didn¡¯t dare pursue him that she played tricks on me.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi coldly humphed: ¡°The one that had their crotch touched by Ma Cui Yun was not me. As a man, you have already lost your chastity. Now you even have the guts to blow smoke. It¡¯s due to Zhu Zhu having a good heart that she wants you. If it was anyone else, who knows if they would whip you three hundred times until death, before throwing your corpse into a lake.¡±


    ¡°That can¡¯t be blamed on me. Zhu Zhu, you have to believe me. I didn¡¯t purposely tempt Ma Cui Yun, she was the one that forcibly molested me. Yeah, she touched it for a bit but nothing came of it! My gecko cinnabar mark is still here!¡±


    Gecko cinnabar mark?[a]


    Ruan Zhu blinked her eyes, feeling awfully strange. The men of this world actually had such a legendary thing? With eyes shining brightly, she asked: ¡°Where is it? Can I see it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s here!¡± Yun Shi Wei extended his right arm out.


    But what Ruan Zhu saw was only smooth, bronzed skin. There were a few black dots here and there, but she didn¡¯t see anything resembling a gecko cinnabar mark. She didn¡¯t give up and looked again more carefully. As her eyes moved, she happened to see Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes full of ridicule. Her heart moved and after realizing something, giggled towards Yun Shi Wei: ¡°Second Cousin, you fooled me. There was no gecko cinnabar dot in the first place as Ma Cui Yun had already taken your purity, right? Her stomach could already hold your child. Don¡¯t try to trick me any longer. Second Cousin, congratulations on being the father of Ma Cui Yun¡¯s child.¡±


    ¡°No, I swear I have nothing to do with Ma Cui Yun. It¡¯s impossible for her to be pregnant with my child!?¡± Yun Shi Wei hurriedly said and suspiciously looked at his arm: ¡°But why would a perfectly fine gecko cinnabar dot disappear? Eh? Oh yeah, I get it now. It was Zhu Zhu that made my mark disappear from the thing we did the day before last. The only one who could conceive my child is Zhu Zhu and definitely won¡¯t be Ma Cui Yun. So the two of you had long realized this and thought to tease me!¡±


    Ruan Zhu continued to giggle from her position in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s arms. Recalling the 3P scene from when she first crossed over and the same scenario that just occurred, her cheeks flushed red as if rogue had been applied. But then suddenly remembering another matter, her smile suddenly froze and her face turned pale. Shi Wei had talked about her conceiving, but in the case of her truly being pregnant, which of the two brothers would the child belong to?


    How did the country of Tian Chu provide a solution for this problem? There had to be some sort of countermeasure.


    ¡°What is it, Wife? What did your little brain think of?¡± Yun Shi Yi gently asked her while massaging her neck.


    Ruan Zhu buried her head on his chest, using a small voice to voice out her worries. Yun Shi Yi felt a bit strange: ¡°You don¡¯t know? Then how did your family do it in the past? Your Mother never told you?¡±


    Flustered, Ruan Zhu said: ¡°This sort of thing is too embarrassing to earnestly inquire about. Mother has mentioned it, but it went through one ear and out the other.¡±


    ¡°My spouse is such a muddle-headed baby chick!¡± Yun Shi Yi tapped the tip of her delicate nose: ¡°From the day we married, you belonged to me alone. The child you give birth to will become the eldest legitimate son or daughter. This is the right accorded to the principal husband by the imperial court. Of course, you will also give Shi Wei and the other secondary husbands children. But before you give birth to a child for me, they must all take contraceptive medicine. The effect is very effective, eating one once can last for a year.¡±


    Ever since the human reproductive system changed three hundred years ago causing the male to female ratio to become unequal, Tian Chu had counteracted this by enacting the ¡®one woman, many husbands¡¯ policy. In addition, the imperial court looked for ways to successfully increase the population. They ended up manufacturing a contraceptive aimed at males so women could give birth safely. All physicians that help a woman in labor must pass through a training course and obtain a license to practice.


    Ruan Zhu turned her bright eyes towards Yun Shi Wei. He understood her unspoken question, thus said: ¡°Be at ease. Before I married you, Mother already gave me the contraceptive to take. This matter is so important, how could you not pay attention to it?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t let your thoughts run wild anymore. You¡¯re tired. Rest for a while before breaking your fast.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi placed his hand on her body and gently pat, as if coaxing a child to sleep. Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyelids closed shut and entered dreamland not too long after.


    [a] Êع¬É° | Gecko cinnabar mark | mark used in ancient times that allegedly would disappear after one is no longer a virgin

 Chapter 11 - Fifth Husband鈥檚 Son

    Glossary


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    [1] ½­ºþ | jianghu | community of martial artists


    When Ruan Zhu woke, one sichen had already passed. Yun Shi Wei was not present. There was only Yun Shi Yi, who still held her in his arms. Seeing her awake, he exposed a knowing smile and instructed the servants to bring water for her to wash her face with while he personally attended to her.


    Ruan Zhu sprayed herself with a dipterocarp[a] fragrance, used toothpaste made from frankincense[b] and salt to brush her teeth, and applied a layer of tuckahoe[c] cream to her cheeks.


    Like last time, Yun Shi Yi helped comb her hair into a zhuimaji and inserted a unique gold buyao. Coupled with the exquisite face, bright eyes and white teeth, willow-like eyebrows, and a countenance like a Confederate rose, it caused even the winter jasmine in the courtyard to lose their color.


    ܽÈØ | Confederate rose


    Ó­´º»¨ | Winter Jasmine (Wikipedia)


    Due to the weather in March being a little hotter, she wore a milky white chest band and matching trousers as inner clothes. Her outer clothing consisted of a pale rose-colored soft smoke gauze long skirt with conjoined sleeves embroidered with a hundred delicate butterflies.


    ¡°This piece of soft smoke gauze came from Mother¡¯s trustor, who paid a large price to have it sent from Jiangnan Province¡¯s weaving workshop. Reportedly, soft smoke gauze is a tribute to the imperial family so it is extremely hard to find in the market. For most families, even if they spent a great deal of money, they still might not be able to buy half a bolt of this material. Mother only obtained two bolts and made two skirts from them. This one is for you. Other people are not even qualified to touch it.¡±


    ¡°Mother is indeed benevolent.¡± Ruan Zhu felt grateful from the bottom of her heart. In her previous world, she had lost her mother early and was estranged from her father. Her relatives treated her coolly for the most part. Since childhood, she had constantly experienced the hypocrisy of the world. Every time she had witnessed other children her own age being led by their parents to go shopping or to go eat, she had felt incessantly envious.


    With the help of Yun Shi Yi, she was finally ready. Looking at herself in the mirror, she slowly walked back and forth for a while and felt that she had a refined appearance with an elegant and pure air about her. She was really quite pleased with her current self.


    Ruan Zhu had read ¡¶Dream of the Red Chamber¡· before so knew about the properties of soft smoke gauze. It has a vivid color and a soft, delicate texture. From afar, it looks just like smoke, which is why it is called ¡®soft smoke gauze¡¯. This sort of pale rose color is also known as ¡®sunset reflection muslin¡¯. In the fortieth chapter, when Matriarch Jia let Sister Feng take out the soft smoke gauze from the cabinet, even Aunt Xue and Sister Feng were in awe and exclaimed that they had never seen such an exquisite fabric before. However, Matriarch Jia had said it would not be suitable to be made into clothes but instead would be good for a window screen.[d]


    That was because the soft smoke gauze was too transparent. A female wearing it would expose the outline of her figure, showing off unspeakable temptation. Using her previous world¡¯s language, it would be called ¡®see-through clothing¡¯. If Little Sister Lin and Elder Sister Bao were to wear this, she estimated that they would not be able to marry in their lifetime.[e]


    Tian Chu¡¯s customs were more relaxed than China¡¯s historical Tang dynasty. The clothing that a woman wore revealed the trends of the current time and also was a type of cultural reflection.


    ¡°My family¡¯s wife is the best.¡± Yun Shi Yi was stunned by the sight before him and rained down kiss after kiss on her head. Picking up a silk circular fan embroidered with flora, he placed it in her little hand while reciting: ¡°Golden embroidery hides its affections, yet not of the South¡¯s skilled weave. Snow ray wisps wind across the slippery handle, silver bamboo spread to reveal gentle flowers.¡±


    Examples of circular fans | Ë¿ÖÊÍÅÉÈ


    Ruan Zhu fanned the circular fan in her hand twice and smiled sweetly: ¡°Cool breeze raised towards morning¡¯s garment, see the bright moon through jade hands. Still early and not yet abandoned, each wave is bittersweet reminiscence of the first meeting.¡±[f]


    ¡°Wife, the two of us truly are in harmony, a match made in heaven.¡± Yun Shi Yi smiled. Placing his arm around her waist, he supported her outside.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin is well-versed in literature and the military with a handsome appearance. It¡¯s Younger Sister that admires you!¡±


    Ruan Zhu chose words to make him happy. Inside, she was thinking: This poem was written in the Tang dynasty so for it to appear in this world, it can¡¯t be considered a coincidence. There must be some kind of connection and perhaps the country of Tian Chu was created as a result of a space-time distortion in some dynasty after the Tang dynasty. She really needed to find a book detailing this world¡¯s history otherwise one day she might accidentally ¡°create¡± a poem that already existed in this world. If that occurred, she would be mocked by others for plagiarism and her reputation would be ruined.


    ¡°Wife is not inferior!¡± Yun Shi Yi smiled again, his eyes filled with doting. The two of them walked side by side out of Wutong Building.


    They had only recently married and according to the regulations, should eat with the parents. Although it was past the time for the morning meal, it was also good to make an appearance.


    Arriving at the Ruyi Pavilion where Master Yun and Madam Yun resided in, they saw Fifth Husband Zhao kneeling in the courtyard. As they were about to stop and inquire about the situation, bed warmers Lou Yun and Cai Yue just so happened to come out and see them. They welcomed the two young masters into the main hall and served them the already prepared dishes.


    ¡°Where is the Master and Madam? What is the situation with Fifth Father in the courtyard?¡± Yun Shi Yi pushed a few delicious dishes towards his wife and shot a glance at Lou Yun. Lou Yun and Cai Yue were part of Madam Yun¡¯s dowry. Because she was concerned about Master Yun¡¯s feelings, she neither gave them a title nor birthed them children even though they were bed warmers. They were already old males of thirty five or thirty six years old but calling them ¡®bachelors¡¯ was not quite correct either. Madam Yun had thought about finding them another household for their sake, but the two of them had proclaimed that Yun family was their home, saying they were willing to attend to their madam for a lifetime. Fortunately, Madam Yun did not slight them and every month, would call them over a few times to spend the night.


    Ruan Zhu ate the food that Lou Yun served. There was a delicious tasting rice porridge with bamboo shoots, chicken feet, mushrooms, and gingko nuts as ingredients. Not only was the meal nutritious, the ingredients also had medicinal properties. The wealthy families of the ancient era really attached importance to knowing what foods were good to maintain good health.


    While she ate, she kept her elegant bearing lest Yun Shi Yi became humiliated as a result of her actions.


    Lou Yun hesitated for a bit before opening his mouth: ¡°Master and Madam wanted to go oversee the field plowing but the servants passed a message saying Fifth Husband Zhao¡¯s son¡­¡­¡± When he speaks, Lou Yun often trails off halfway, in fear that voicing out others¡¯ offenses would provoke them to quarrel with him.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, why is Fifth Father kneeling in the courtyard? And which little brother is it that¡¯s involved?¡±


    Fifth Father¡¯s surname is Zhao. He is Madam Yun¡¯s fifth secondary husband and has three sons that are triplets. His children are all over ten years old now, but after Madam


    Yun gave birth to Fifth Husband Zhao¡¯s children, she never stepped foot in his courtyard again. The attitude with which she uses when they normally meet is also not that good.


    The wives of Tian Chu do not take care of lazy men. Other than the legitimate husband, all secondary husbands have jobs that can support themselves. For example, the Yun family¡¯s Second Husband manages several large stores within Lan Zhou¡¯s city walls. Third Husband opened up over ten shops that sold only rice and other beans. Fourth Husband does not have considerable talents so Madam Yun passed the management duties of Yun manor to him to manage. Fifth Husband had the least favor and Madam Yun pushed aside ten or so fields for him to plant.


    Ruan Zhu thought about what the two brothers had told her these past few days regarding family affairs and and also considered what little information remained in her head. This world¡¯s secondary husbands all worked as if their life depended on it yet outside of their wages, everything else they earn is considered as belonging to the wife. The life of a concubine was really shitty. Luckily, she didn¡¯t cross over into a male.


    Yun Shi Yi saw that Lou Yun didn¡¯t dare continue speaking and pointed a finger at Cai Yue: ¡°You say it.¡±


    Cai Yue bowed: ¡°Before Fifth Husband Zhao entered our residence, he reportedly fooled around with a wealthy woman surnamed Zheng and had a child named Hai¡¯er. However, Lady Zheng disdained him for not having any property so after she got tired of him, she paid no more attention to him. Fifth Husband Zhao painstakingly raised Hai¡¯er until he was seven or eight before sending him to Lady Zheng¡¯s residence. She had no choice but to let the child stay. But surnamed Zheng had numerous children and all of her husbands and children looked down on Hai¡¯er. Lady Zheng is also very hateful, telling Hai¡¯er to work in the residence. Even the servants lived with more dignity than him. Hai¡¯er suffered greatly. With great difficulty, he grew up and was not willing to be abused any longer so one night, he ran away. He begged for food as he traveled several thousand li from the southern regions to come to Lan Zhou in search of his biological father. I heard that last night he finally arrived at Yun manor. Fifth Husband Zhao ran over to Ruyi Pavilion at the wee hours of morning to kneel here, just to plead Master and Madam to shelter Hai¡¯er.¡±


    ¡°What did Master and Madam say?¡±


    ¡°Master said it was up to the Madam. Madam did not say anything. After eating, she left with Master to oversee the tenant farmers sowing seeds.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi did not express his opinion on the matter. All of Yun family¡¯s secondary husbands had some talent but competed fiercely with each other behind each other¡¯s backs. I follow, you make a ruckus; you follow, I make a ruckus. No one gave in to each other as they all wanted to receive their wife¡¯s favor. Only Fifth Husband Zhao was wordless and silent[g]. After finishing his duties, he would hide in his courtyard to supervise his sons¡¯ literary and martial arts schooling.


    Thus, Yun Shi Yi¡¯s impression of Fifth Husband Zhao was not bad.


    ¡°How big is Hai¡¯er this year?¡± Ruan Zhu was baffled. Didn¡¯t people from the ancient periods mature early? After growing into an adult, he didn¡¯t rely on himself to survive but instead ran to complain to his father. This really made it hard for others to sympathize.


    ¡°Should be twenty-four or twenty-five!¡± Cai Yue understand the meaning of the eldest lady¡¯s words. He sighed: ¡°When Hai¡¯er passed through Liu Province, he was grabbed by the authorities who wanted able-bodied men to fix the river dike. Unexpectedly, while pulling a stone cart, he injured his leg and the one in charge threw him only half a tael as compensation. Hai¡¯er is really pitiful, having to drag a wounded leg from a distant land to come to Lan Zhou. Last night he entered the residence after delivering a notice. Everyone saw a man with messy hair and a dirty face, wearing rags while walking with a limp. Even the roadside beggars looked to be a little better than him.¡±


    This was the ancient era with no trains or cars so transportation was truly inconvenient. She didn¡¯t know how much suffering a crippled person had to go through to travel several thousand li. Ruan Zhu understood Madam Yun¡¯s feelings. Her husband¡¯s bastard child ran over to seek shelter, causing everyone to feel uncomfortable. Her previous world¡¯s society would comply with this situation, let alone Tian Chu¡¯s custom of highly regarding a man¡¯s chastity.


    ¡°Where is Hai¡¯er currently?¡± Yun Shi Yi pondered, rather than letting Mother be in a difficult place, it would be better if he stepped in and resolved the situation.


    ¡°He is resting in Fifth Husband Zhao¡¯s courtyard. This morning, I heard from Steward Zhang of the kitchen that Hai¡¯er had a high fever. But because Madam has yet to declare his position, Fifth Husband Zhao doesn¡¯t dare invite a physician to the residence.¡±


    After the young couple finished eating, Lou Yun and Cai Yue tidied up the table and carried the empty dishes out.


    ¡°You want to help Hai¡¯er, right?¡± Taking advantage of the fact that there was no one else in the room with them, Ruan Zhu looked at Yun Shi Yi¡¯s expression and guessed his intention: ¡°Actually, wanting to help is understandable, but we need to first consider Mother¡¯s feelings. Assisting is fine, but it should not be too excessive.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi nodded his head: ¡°After all is said and done, Mother stepping in personally in this matter would not look good. If she lets him stay in Yun manor, after a while, the child will inevitably receive contempt and be crowded out. At that time, his feelings of gratitude will evolve into ones of hatred. Placing him in our residence in the city is also not appropriate. How about we just send him to Tianyi Pavilion then.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s still go to the courtyard for a look and arrange for this matter to be settled while doing so. Hai¡¯er is sick. Delaying an answer for a long time is harmful to his condition.¡± Compared to Hai¡¯er¡®s situation, Ruan Zhu on the contrary sympathized with his father. It¡¯s said that a father¡¯s love is great, so why is it that she could never obtain it?


    ¡°Nn.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi led Ruan Zhu into the courtyard.


    Fifth Father Zhao was still kneeling. He was close to forty years old but he had a very healthy body on account of working the land year round. But even so, it would still be difficult to tolerate kneeling under the sun for such a long period of time.


    The intriguing thing is that who knows when, but Fifth Father Zhao¡¯s three sons had also come over to join their father. They sat in a horizontal line along with Fifth Father Zhao to kneel together, creating a touching scene of a natural love between father and children.


    Yun Shi Yi not only felt that this was ridiculous, but if this matter was to be known by Mother, she may be infuriated to death. The three children that she had painstakingly gave birth to would oppose her because of a single stranger of dubious origin. In his heart, he thought that Fifth Father Zhao really had no intelligence.


    Towards his three younger brothers, though they shared the same mother, they had different fathers, so it was out of the question for them to have deep feelings towards each other. However, their relationship was not as far removed as estrangement. Fortunately, Lou Yun and Cai Yue[h] were here. Gesturing with their hands, they permitted two servants to escort the three brothers to return.


    Fifth Father Zhao raised his head hopefully to look at the Eldest Young Master. His two eyes were bloodshot and hazy, motionlessly looking at him as if there was no more life left in him.


    ¡°Go find a carriage to take Hai¡¯er to Tianyi Pavilion inside the city and look for Manager Li. Just tell him this order is from me. Tell him to invite a physician to treat Hai¡¯er. Once he¡¯s recovered, let him become a helper there!¡±


    ¡°Eldest Master, Zhao the Fifth thanks you.¡± Fifth Father Zhao suddenly cried, hoarsely calling out that one sentence, and prostrated himself.


    Yun Shi Yi pulled Ruan Zhu out of Ruyi Pavilion. He could only do this one thing. Fifth Father Zhao¡¯s previous mistake was still a mistake. In everyone¡¯s head there ought to be a moral scale. One must be responsible for one¡¯s actions.


    The two of them slowly walked along the cloister. Yun Shi Yi spoke of Fifth Father Zhao¡¯s situation to Ruan Zhu: ¡°Fifth Father is very law-abiding. He is neither ambitious nor aggressive; his conduct is also considered polite and amiable. His three sons are also my brothers. This messy situation is one that I should help with.¡±


    ¡°I remember. Based on the ranking among brothers, they should be called Yun Eleven, Yun Twelve, Yun Thirteen.¡± Ruan Zhu still remembered yesterday¡¯s introduction but she had forgotten their actual names. Her memory has always been poor. It was like that in her previous world and after crossing over to this world it was also like this.


    Suddenly there was a sound of a person running, their steps echoing throughout the cloister, causing Ruan Zhu to turn her head to see who it was.


    It turned out to be Yun Shi Wei, one hand skillfully holding onto a copper staff. He hurried over with his body covered with perspiration. Finally coming near them, he tossed the staff aside. Holding Ruan Zhu up, he twirled her around in a circle a few times, his nose close enough to sniff at her bright and clean neck: ¡°Zhu Zhu, your body¡¯s scent is so nice, even more fragrant than the peach blossoms by the road.¡±


    Ruan Zhu pushed him with her hand and frowned: ¡°You¡¯re so stinky! Hurry, put me down and go bathe!¡±


    ¡°Another bath? I already washed last night and I¡¯ve never heard of anyone washing daily.¡±


    For ancient people, washing was a big deal and they relied on a calendar that ordained when they should bathe. The calendar recorded several auspicious days: when to set off on a long journey; when to marry; when to hold a funeral; when to have sexual intercourse; when to bathe¡­¡­


    ¡°Yet you still eat every day.¡± Ruan Zhu wiped the areas that had come in contact with his sweat. She couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and used the circular fan in her hand to smack him a few times in the face: ¡°If you don¡¯t clean yourself up, then you are forbidden from touching me or entering my room. Hurry and let me down.¡±


    ¡°That can¡¯t do. If I leave Zhu Zhu, I¡¯ll suffocate to death.¡± Yun Shi Wei hugged the fragrant body. Remembering this morning¡¯s emotional situation, he couldn¡¯t help but become adventurous and uncontrollable. A big hand reached into her lapel, cupping and caressing a soft breast. He was very strong and was not aware of the strength he used when playing with her causing Ruan Zhu to inhale sharply in pain. Holding onto his thick and solid arm, she ruthlessly bit down on his arm in resentment. After she let go with her teeth, a ring of tiny teeth marks could be seen imprinted on his arm.


    ¡°Aiya, Zhu Zhu, you¡¯re so fierce.¡± Yun Shi Wei extracted his arm from her grasp, his jet-black eyes looking at her full of grievances: ¡°Father and Mother have never touched a hair of mine yet you¡¯ve gone and bit me.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t accept it?¡± Ruan Zhu raised an elegant eyebrow, her attractive big eyes glittering for a moment: ¡°If you don¡¯t accept it, then in the future I won¡¯t ever want you and will no longer pay attention to you.¡±


    ¡°No, no, you can keep biting!¡± Yun Shi Wei immediately responded: ¡°I suddenly feel that after your one bite, my entire mind and body is now clear and refreshed.¡±


    It turns out that Yun Shi Wei also had moments when he wasn¡¯t rash! Suddenly, dimples appeared on Ruan Zhu¡¯s cheeks, her whole face appearing youthful and charming.


    Yun Shi Yi walked over and took her into his own arms. From his sleeve, he took out a handkerchief and attentively wiped at the areas where she had become wet from sweat. Ruan Zhu worriedly glanced at their surroundings. Yun Shi Wei had been indecent just then, and she was afraid there were others around that would wag their tongues around everywhere.


    ¡°Shi Wei, where did you go to? How is it that you came back all smelly and sweaty?¡± Yun Shi Yi unnecessarily asked. Second Brother was naturally restless. That day, didn¡¯t he manage to return home stinking from sweat?


    ¡°Just now, I went horse riding and then practiced a bit with my staff. Master Xu[i] said my current skill is considered peak expert level in the jianghu[1]. The city¡¯s armed escorts of the Dafeng Escort Bureau may not be as strong as me. I¡¯m searching for a job as I should be earning money to provide for my spouse. I can¡¯t always be spending time at home. Furthermore, there will be children in the future. Once the children grow up and realize I, this father, have no ability, how much face would I lose.¡±


    [a] ÁúÄÔÏã | Dipterocarpaceae | family of mainly rainforest plants that provide aromatic essential oils (Wikipedia)


    [b] ÈéÏã | Frankincense | aromatic resin used in incense and perfumes (Wikipedia)


    [c] ÜòÜß | Tuckahoe / Fuling (has lots of other names) | wood-decay fungus commonly used in Chinese medicine (Wikipedia)


    [d] I¡¯ve never read Dream of the Red Chamber so all names are referenced from Wikipedia.


    [e] She¡¯s referring to Lin Daiyu and Xue Baochai, the two female leads in DRC.


    [f] If it¡¯s not obvious, YSY recited two lines of a poem and RZ responded with the remaining two lines. I butchered this translation so if anyone has anything better, please let me know. Title is ¸³µÃ¸£ÖÝ°×ÖñÉÈ×Ó£¨Ì½µÃÇá×Ö£© The fan in this poem is actually a traditional fold-up fan so author, this poem doesn¡¯t even fit here


    [g] ²»Éù²»Ïì, idiom meaning taciturn, not involved


    [h] The author keeps mixing their names up but this should be correct.


    [i] The ¡®Master¡¯ here is ʦ¸µ which is like teacher/sensei. Think master-disciple relationship. Not the same as the ¡®Master¡¯ in ¡®Master Yun¡¯.

 Chapter 12 - Second Young Master鈥檚 Jian Garden

    Glossary


    ½­ºþ | jianghu | community of martial artists


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters; Wikipedia


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s self-perception was pretty good, contrary to what she had thought. But who told him she¡¯d have his children? Letting her be like this world¡¯s females, becoming a fertility machine and birthing a whole group of children, just like how a sow births tiny piglets?


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was gloomy. She might as well cross into a man.


    But to be honest, the family planning policy was indeed a brilliant move. No matter the era or the space, every country ought to try to vigorously increase their population to ensure its future.


    ¡°Finding a job is good. As men, it is our responsibility to support our family. But escorting goods would take a long while and the work is also very dangerous. I¡¯m just afraid that our parents will not agree. Moreover, are you willing to part with your new bride? Then Zhu Zhu will, of course, belong to just me alone. In that case, I¡¯ll raise both my hands in approval of you joining the armed escorts.¡± Yun Shi Yi faintly glanced at his brother, the corner of his mouth raised in a teasing manner.


    ¡°Then what should I do?¡± Yun Shi Wei scratched his head. He wasn¡¯t scared of opposing his parents nor was he afraid of danger. But even if he was beaten to death, he wasn¡¯t willing to be separated from Zhu Zhu.


    ¡°Don¡¯t they all say men aspire to travel far and make one¡¯s mark? Since you have a goal, achieving it is good. And it just so happens that you can demonstrate the value of the many years you¡¯ve spent practicing martial arts.¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s bright and large clear eyes were full of hope: ¡°When you are an armed escort, take me along with you. Just think of me as goods an armed escort has to protect, ok! Of course, you protect your goods. I just wanna travel and play everywhere.¡±


    In her previous world, she was too poor. The furthest place she had gone to was a visit to a park in her residential city. What Yellow Mountain, Yellow River; Yangtze River or Great Wall; the top ten tourist attractions; tourist areas; holidays spent in resorts¡­¡­She¡¯s heard of them but never visited before. Now that she¡¯s crossed over into a wealthy person, wouldn¡¯t not traveling around be letting down the fate that the Heavens arranged?


    Yun Shi Yi used his finger to tap at Ruan Zhu¡¯s nose, his bright as stars eyes exposing a funny look: ¡°All of those large men belong to their wives. You being caught in the middle and being thought of as cheap is a small matter. But involving them and ruining their reputation would cause them to be punished by their wives.¡±


    ¡°What, it¡¯s this troublesome?¡± Ruan Zhu tutted. The theory was actually reversed. Her being with men from other families didn¡¯t cause her to suffer losses as actually, it was the men she was with who lost in reputation and integrity. What kind of situation was this?


    ¡°If Wife wants to go out and play, then wait for when this husband has time to take you and we¡¯ll go traveling throughout. Don¡¯t think about wanting to carelessly harm other people¡¯s men anymore, all right?¡± Yun Shi Yi laughed.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one that said these words. If you said it, then you must mean what you say. I think highly of you.¡± Ruan Zhu smiled softly, looping her arms around his neck.


    The two of them embraced each other without regard for others. Yun Shi Wei looked at them enviously. Stepping forward two steps, hugged Ruan Zhu from the back: ¡°Don¡¯t always look for Eldest Brother to lean on, I¡¯m also here, hmm? I am also your husband.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was sandwiched between the two brothers, one in front and one behind with her in the middle. Sighing, she thought of the saying ¡®the joy of having several partners is also not easy to enjoy¡¯. ¡°Second Cousin, this is a public area. If we¡¯re seen by the servants, they¡¯ll make a joke out of us. Hurry and release your hands.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no problem when it¡¯s Eldest Brother holding you yet it becomes a joke when I hold you.¡± Yun Shi Wei was gloomy. Exerting a little strength, he pulled Ruan Zhu entirely into his arms. An arm encircling her slim waist, his eyebrows seemed to fly as his eyes were filled with smiles: ¡°I¡¯ll take you to visit my Jian Garden[a], you haven¡¯t been to where I live yet.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei rearranged her position so that he was horizontally carrying her. With large strides, he walked towards Jian Garden.


    ¡°Put me down, going to your residence for a look doesn¡¯t require carrying me.¡± Ruan Zhu used her fists to pound at his chest, but to no avail. This bastard was too sturdy and basically didn¡¯t care that he was being beaten by her. After pounding for a while, she found that her hands started to hurt, so she might as well start using other means. She stretched a hand into his lapel and using all her strength, scratched his skin with her fingernails.


    Yun Shi Wei was scratched until he grimaced in pain but he stubbornly endured it and refused to let her down. Instead, it was her that became sorry and ceased her movements.


    They arrived at Jian Garden in less than a quarter of an hour. The interior of the courtyard was very spacious and there were a few servants sweeping the yard. Seeing their Master had returned, they all stopped their work and walked over to salute. Yun Shi Wei didn¡¯t spare them a glance and carried Ruan Zhu directly into the main room.


    Rather than saying Yun Shi Wei¡¯s Jian Garden was a place for people to live, it was better to say it was a practical weapons storehouse. In the living room, various weapons were strewn across the tables, chairs, and shelves: Emei daggers, regular daggers, bows and arrows, large battle-axes crossed in an ¡®X¡¯, nunchakus¡­¡­


    ¶ëü´Ì | Emei daggers (Wikipedia)


    Ë«½Ú¹÷ | Nunchaku (Wikipedia)


    ¡°Second Cousin, do you want to open a weaponry business?¡± Ruan Zhu wandered around the room, touching that thing, touching this thing, feeling puzzled. Tian Chu permits the populace to stash weapons? Isn¡¯t this scope a little too large? If they were found by the authorities, would they be considered traitors to the country?


    ¡°Weaponry business?¡± Yun Shi Wei stared blankly before his eyes lit up. Towards the Yun Shi Yi that had finally caught up to them, he said: ¡°Eldest Brother, what do you think of me opening a weaponry business? With a focus on selling weapons?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi nodded his head, earnestly said: ¡°Good idea. But if you were to be charged with the crime of being a traitor and arrested by the authorities, just don¡¯t confess to being my younger brother, and it¡¯s fine.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei liked weapons. Collecting and playing with them at home was one thing but publicly opening a weaponry store without having an imperial background was another. The imperial court did not allow the common people to openly involve themselves in businesses involving these ¡®dangerous¡¯ goods. The Yun family had an enormous amount of property so even though they had some connections with the authorities, it wasn¡¯t enough to curry favor with the officials in the court.


    ¡°It¡¯s like that, ah.¡± Yun Shi Wei revealed a look of disappointment.


    ¡°Second Cousin¡¯s martial arts is very skilled, and there¡¯s few people in the jianghu that can be your match. Being an armed escort or opening a weaponry store aren¡¯t the only paths available. You can still go take the military exam and take the top spot!¡± Ruan Zhu exposed her dimples and smiled: ¡°If your fortune is good and you pass the exam with scholarly honor, wouldn¡¯t we also receive that honor?¡±


    ¡°I did think of that, ah. But the military exam is that not that easy.¡± Yun Shi Wei grabbed his hair with his hands, in a bad mood: ¡°Arranging troops and knowing their dispositions, that sort of learning I can force myself to deal with. But they also test who each dynasty¡¯s generals are, each general¡¯s respective famous military campaigns, plus the number of casualties, geographical surroundings, even the weather changes of each campaign. Looking at it all, I feel agitated and upset. If I had the ability to study, I would have long ago gone to take the exam, become the top scorer and return to be a parasite at home.¡±


    How did the setup of the ancient era¡¯s military examination resemble a test for a military affairs class in college?


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t know what to say in response. Instead, she scrutinized a weapons rack on the wall where there was a dazzling line-up of various weapons such as different kinds of small arms, knifes, swords and the like. One by one, she carefully touched them and from a corner picked up something that resembled a fountain pen. It was very thin, not even one-third thickness of a fountain pen, and about ten centimeters long. In the center of the baton, there was a hoop.


    Yun Shi Wei walked over and pressed hard on the center of the thin pole and the relatively large ring shrank in his hand. He slipped it onto the middle finger of her left hand and pressed on the front end of the pole. With a whoosh, pointed sections ejected outwards. The whole length was about thirty centimeters long and the two ends that had been ejected were both sharp and lethal, shining with a cold light.


    ¡°This is the ¡®invisible Emei dagger¡¯, typically used for assassinations. Ordinarily, it¡¯s worn on the middle finger and you can fiddle with it in your palm. If by chance there¡¯s danger, it can be used to save your life.¡± Yun Shi Wei pressed on the hidden mechanism again and the two piercing ends retracted into the sheath. ¡°I found this in an almost bankrupt weaponry store and bought it in passing. To me, this is only a child¡¯s toy so I just threw it in a corner when I got home. I think Zhu Zhu wearing it on her finger is quite fitting. Just keep it then, in the future, there might be some use for it.¡±


    Ruan Zhu carefully looked at the Emei dagger. Unactivated, the thin rod fit perfectly in her hand and caused the mechanism to be at her fingertips, like a thimble. No wonder the length could be changed so easily.


    ¡°This thing is such a clever tool for self-protection.¡± Ruan Zhu was secretly delighted: ¡°The invisible Emei dagger is pretty good, I¡¯ll take it.¡±


    The wisdom and knowledge of the ancient people really could not be concealed. She wanted to send some words to her past world: If I may offer a bit of advice¨Cto all the women that cross over to an ancient era, you must not think of the ancients as idiots any longer! We always think we¡¯re the best but all we do is sing lousy and average songs that somehow causes a large population to become crazy fans. Such an embarrassment, makes one really want to go ‡å‡å[b]!


    But it is true, the ancient era was full of people that came up with breathtaking inventions, so we, the modern people, cannot look down on them.


    ¡°Then how does Zhu Zhu want to repay me, hmm?¡± Yun Shi Wei¡¯s face exposed a smile: ¡°How about today, you don¡¯t go to Eldest Brother¡¯s Wutong Building and instead accompany me for a day in Jian Garden?¡±


    After being proper for a little while, he once again returned to being indecent. Ruan Zhu hadn¡¯t yet uttered a word when there came sounds of quarreling from the courtyard.


    ¡°Who permitted you to block my path? Are you dog slaves all blind? Since you know who this great-aunt is, why haven¡¯t you prostrated yourself to let this great-aunt enter?!¡±


    ¡°Miss Qian, without the Second Young Master¡¯s permission, no one may enter Jian Garden. If Miss insists on going inside, of course there won¡¯t be a problem, but this servant is bound to be punished by the young master. Please excuse this one, but this one does not want the blame.¡±


    The Second Young Master of the Yun family¡¯s courtyard permitted only Master, Madam and Eldest Young Master¨Cthese three people¨Cto enter without prior approval. If other people dared enter, Yun Shi Wei¡¯s temper would explode, and it was a given that a huge ruckus would be created.


    ¡°A dog slave with such big courage, do you think I won¡¯t beat the crap out of you?¡±


    The servant also became angry. He clearly had a patient disposition but it seemed his Master¡¯s temper had rubbed off on him. Laughing coldly, he said: ¡°Miss Qian is mighty, but has clearly forgotten whose residence she is currently in. As the proverb says, ¡®wanting to hit a dog must depend on its master¡¯. If you hit me, it will be the same as you hitting Second Young Master. I am just a lowly servant and naturally will not retaliate, but I fear Second Young Master will not think the same way.¡±


    ¡°Such big courage for a dog slave!¡± The woman became even more enraged and pa! ruthlessly gave the servant a resounding slap on the face.


    What a publicly bossy woman!


    Ruan Zhu whispered to Yun Shi Wei: ¡°Second Cousin, who is she?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei didn¡¯t answer her. His face radiated anger, his eyes glaring in the direction of the courtyard. Yun Shi Yi smiled and answered her: ¡°In regards to this, she¡¯s not an outsider. Her name is Qian Feng Jiao and she is the child of our paternal aunt. She lives in the Qian manor, which is about five li from our Yun manor. Paternal aunt gave birth to eight sons and just this one daughter, so it was hard to avoid spoiling her a bit.¡±


    ¡°That is to say she is your younger cousin. Furthermore, she is your paternal cousin.¡± The two brothers of the Yun family¡¯s younger female cousin. So she was either Master Yun¡¯s elder sister¡¯s child or his younger sister¡¯s child. Hmm, this relationship is quite close.


    In most cases, puppy love existed between cousins that grew up together. Was this also the case with them? For example, in ¡¶Dream of the Red Chamber¡·, because of the influence of the jade stone, the cousins Jia Bao Yu and Lin Dai Yu were childhood sweethearts and innocent playmates with such deep feelings. How could her feelings that had inserted themselves into their lives halfway through compare to this type of deep feeling?


    Her calm heart felt as if a light breeze had caused some branches to move, creating a slight disturbance.


    As if he had guessed what she was thinking, Yun Shi Yi smiled and reached out to pull her close to his chest: ¡°It is not what you are thinking of. Shi Wei and I had long been engaged to you, so how could we have thoughtlessly not paid attention to our conduct and find trouble for ourselves?¡±


    Ruan Zhu also smiled. Her thoughts were still following the laws of her previous world. This current world¡¯s men were like the females of ancient China in her past life. If an engagement had been set, then it would signify that they had become that woman¡¯s man. If at that time they did not properly exercise restraint in their conduct, then there would be large consequences.


    [a] The author previously used Ô° (garden) but now she¡¯s using Ôº (courtyard). The two are homophones and I¡¯m assuming ¡®garden¡¯ was a typo, but I¡¯m going to keep it. I like how ¡®garden¡¯ sounds & it also matches better with the author¡¯s description of YSW giving his courtyard an ¡®elegantly unruly¡¯ name.


    [b] ‡å is a popular slang used to describe embarrassment/etc, because it resembles a face

 Chapter 13 - A Ridiculous Play

    ¡°Let her come inside.¡± With a gloomy face, Yun Shi Wei called out towards the window.


    ¡°You heard that, right? Elder Cousin called me inside, you dumbass servant.¡± Qian Feng Jiao cursed at him and entered the hall with an arrogant expression. She turned a blind eye to Ruan Zhu and Yun Shi Wei but seeing Yun Shi Yi, the rims of her eyes quickly turned red. Quickly walking towards him, she said: ¡°Eldest Cousin, I just went to Wutong Building but Xiao Feng and Xiao Shan said you weren¡¯t there, so I came here instead.¡±


    Eyes brimming with tears, she continued to walk closer to him while saying: ¡°Eldest Cousin, why didn¡¯t you inform me when you got married? Could it be that you feared I would ruin your good engagement? My family also concealed it from me and think that I¡¯m not pleasing to their eyes. Am I really that unlikable?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi didn¡¯t wait for her to come close to him. Grabbing Ruan Zhu, he picked her up in an embrace similar to how one would hold a baby, with his hands intersecting at her back. This position caused them to be very close to each other. Lowering his head, he planted kisses on her mouth: ¡°Wife, you did not eat much this morning. You must be hungry now so this husband will have some servants send some dishes over.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei heard his words and swiftly yelled towards the window: ¡°Dao Qiang, Jian Ji, you two go to the kitchen and ask Auntie Zhang to send some tasty dishes over. Just say the Eldest Lady is hungry and it¡¯s important to hurry.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say I was hungry, ah!¡± Ruan Zhu blinked her eyes. Dao Qiang and Jian Ji¨CThese were the names given to his servants? They were too strange. Well, the names really do complement their Master nicely.[a]


    ¡°Wife, if you are hungry, then just be good and listen. Eat some more so I can raise you a little plumper. The you as you are now is too thin and weak. When I carry you, it feels as light as a feather, causing this husband to feel distressed.¡± Yun Shi Yi reprimanded her with a serious face.


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry. She was thin and weak? Why didn¡¯t she think so? Other than her waist being a little too small, the other places that should have meat all had some meat. This body was naturally petite but well proportioned and slim. It could be classified as a typical beauty from the Han dynasty. Bright but not short, delicate but not long, her proportions were just right. Her physique was in accordance with this era¡¯s beauty aesthetic.


    But then she saw Yun Shi Yi sitting down on a chair and placing her on his legs. What is this, PDA? While thinking this, Ruan Zhu noticed Qian Feng Jiao making her way over with an ashen expression while fiercely glaring at her. The degree of hatred leveled at Ruan Zhu made it seem as if she (QFJ) was going to devour her.


    Ruan Zhu repeatedly blinked her eyes again, realizing some things. Fine, who told him to be her husband. What he wanted to do, she will cooperate. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she coyishly asked: ¡°Husband Lord, since you have said it like this, this wife is indeed a little hungry.¡± She was so embarrassed, she wanted to die. Goosebumps had already appeared on her skin. Lin Chi Ling¡¯s posture and attitude was not something that everyone could imitate![b] ¡°Call Dao¡­.¡±


    ¡°Dao Qiang, Jian Ji.¡±


    ¡°Yes, tell them to hurry and immediately bring the dishes over.¡±


    ¡°Why are you holding her?¡± Qian Feng Jiao stared at Ruan Zhu, showing an expression of contempt and hatred born out of jealousy. She snorted: ¡°Could it be that she doesn¡¯t know how to walk? Is she lame?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s expression changed as he inclined his eyes to glance at Qian Feng Jiao. Turning his eyes back towards Ruan Zhu, he lightly smiled: ¡°I am unwilling to let her walk as holding her like this is very comfortable. You don¡¯t know how naughty she is, always unwilling to let me carry her. Isn¡¯t that right, Zhu Zhu, my wife? Next time you can¡¯t be like this, okay~¡±


    ¡°All right, Husband Lord!¡± Ruan Zhu bashfully answered him with her arms still around his neck.


    ¡°This mischievous girl.¡± He had been called ¡®Husband Lord¡¯ by his wife twice now, so was happy from head to toe. He gently tapped her on the nose, their atmosphere clearly intimate.


    Qian Feng Jiao was so angry she stamped her foot: ¡°What¡¯s so good about her? Her appearance isn¡¯t as beautiful as mine. To seduce my eldest cousin and sit on his lap¨Cyou¡¯re awfully pleased with yourself, aren¡¯t you? I¡¯ve never met such a wanton woman like you who doesn¡¯t know what honorable conduct means.¡±


    ¡°This miss is too funny. What does this husband and wife¡¯s love got to do with you? Moreover, this is in our residence, not in broad daylight with a thousand staring eyes. Even if we had been seen because of you charging in, you ought to withdraw. Is it possible that in your own home, you also burst into your parents¡¯ room, saying and doing this kind of malicious accusations?¡± Ruan Zhu was somewhat enraged. Indeed, who was she trying to provoke? This girl definitely had some mental issues. She was even able to speak out those kinds of words, yet wasn¡¯t afraid to be made into a laughingstock.


    ¡°You shameful little girl, what courage you have to dare speak to me this way!¡± Qian Feng Jiao had been spoiled from childhood. All of her family members concede to her so never had she experienced this sort of back talk. Her eyes filled with fury, she glared: ¡°Do you believe I¡¯ll beat the crap out of you, you shameless hussy who loves to blab. I¡¯ll let you be proud of stealing someone¡¯s man, you obscene prostitute. Inevitably, there will be a day when you are thrown away by my eldest cousin like how worn out clothes and broken scraps are tossed into a trash can.¡±


    Whose family¡¯s lover did I steal? Why do I have to be tossed into the trash can like worn out clothes and broken scraps?


    Ruan Zhu stared blankly at her. This was indeed an example of the art of cursing another person. Compared to Ma Cui Yun, her skill was much higher. In China, scolding others could be considered a skill. Look at how Americans cursed at each other¨Cthere wasn¡¯t much variety as they only used one word ¡®shit¡¯. In the TV series ¡¶The Deer and the Cauldron¡·[c], Wei Xiao Bao was also very vexed when using Russian to swear at the demons. Russian is superficial and the amount of words and sentences that can be used are limited, so swearing at someone only resulted in ever saying stuff like ¡®You are a smelly swine and you eat feces¡¯. But because this wasn¡¯t the case with Chinese, then wouldn¡¯t this mean the Chinese phrases I use to curse at people are varied, with endless combinations?


    Ruan Zhu had just been cursed at, so how could she not have a reason to retort back? Her nature was definitely not one of a punching bag. She sat up straight on Yun Shi Yi¡¯s lap: ¡°Miss Qian, do you have poor eyesight and problems with your ears to not notice that everyone lets you have your way? Or is it that from birth, you were a cucumis, asking to be hit? And then after growing up, you were a walnut, asking to be hammered? And now you are like a broken motorcycle¡­¡­.Eh, that¡¯s not it. I think while being ugly is not your fault, it¡¯s wrong for you to go outside and scare people.¡±[d]


    ¡°Where am I ugly? You unrestrained prostitute with no sense of shame, you think it¡¯s reasonable to steal another¡¯s man?¡± Being called ugly caused Qian Feng Jiao to be hopping mad and she started to babble incoherently in her anger.


    ¡°Eh? You keep repeating that I stole a man away, but which family¡¯s son did I steal? If you have the evidence then just say it. Who did that man have a previous engagement with or did the man have secret affairs with such-and-such women? If you don¡¯t say it clearly, it will be that you are merely frothing at your mouth, letting others think you act shamelessly. Don¡¯t think that just because you are pampered at home, it will be the same outside. You need to know that outsiders yield to you not because they¡¯re afraid of you, and it¡¯s definitely not because they like you, but to give your parents some face and respect. In your family members¡¯ eyes, you may be a treasure, but that may not be the case to an outsider.¡±


    ¡°You dare say this to this esteemed Miss, you really have no manners.¡±


    Qian Feng Jiao¡¯s eyebrows immediately went upwards in anger, and she menacingly rushed over with every intent of being violent, meaning to grab Ruan Zhu. But with one brush of Yun Shi Yi¡¯s sleeve, she was flung aside. A gust of wind had directly hit her, causing her to involuntarily stagger backwards a few steps with the impact. Tears immediately formed in her eyes: ¡°Eldest Cousin, you would really oppose Younger Cousin because of an irrelevant person?¡±


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry. She was ¡®an irrelevant person¡¯? What a monstrous fallacy.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± Yun Shi Yi¡¯s face was cold.


    ¡°Are you finished yet? If you don¡¯t want to look a fool, leave. What the hell, no one even invited you here. If it wasn¡¯t for me trying to show Paternal Aunt Qian some respect, I would have long tossed you out like a sand bag. You really are annoying to death.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei did not have his older brother¡¯s patience and his taunts caused Qian Feng Jiao¡¯s face to become ashen.


    Right at this time, the heads of the Yun household, Master Yun and Madam Yun, walked towards Jian Garden. The moment they stepped inside, all the courtyard¡¯s servants immediately went to bow in greeting.


    It turned out that when Dao Qiang and Jian Ji went to the kitchens, they were seen by the two elders and thus gave a report on the current situation inside Jian Garden. Upon hearing that the Qian family¡¯s daughter was here causing trouble, the two masters hurriedly rushed over as they were extremely anxious that their sons¡¯ reputations would be ruined, resulting in the latter being looked down on by their wife.


    Hearing the sound of greetings in the courtyard, Ruan Zhu immediately got up from Yun Shi Yi¡¯s lap and straightened her clothes.


    ¡°This child greets Father and Mother.¡±


    She stood next to the two brothers, bowing alongside them to wish good fortune and happiness on the two elders.


    The Yun parents saw that the atmosphere inside could still be considered peaceful and that the new bride¡¯s state of mind was not bad. They breathed a sigh of relief and Madam Yun asked Ruan Zhu: ¡°Zhu Zhu, are you all right?¡±


    Ruan Zhu knit her eyebrows and forced herself to smile: ¡°It is nothing, Mother. This young one has not handled matters well, forcing Mother to run over in worry without rest after only just arriving home. It is this daughter-in-law that is unfilial.¡±


    Madam Yun felt as if she had been cleansed by a spring wind after listening to Ruan Zhu¡¯s words. She thought in her mind that sure enough, the daughter-in-law she personally chose was the right choice. Compared to her niece from her husband¡¯s side, it was truly like comparing an angel to a devil. Her self-confidence increased.


    Quite displeased, she faced Qian Feng Jiao: ¡°Qian girl, nowadays you are older. Don¡¯t carelessly enter a man¡¯s residence. The rumors that are passed outside are not pleasant to hear. They may have no affect on your reputation but Shi Yi and Shi Wei still have to conduct themselves with integrity!¡±


    Qian Feng Jiao had already felt wronged and hearing Madam Yun¡¯s admonition caused her to feel even more hurt. Her tears dripped down: ¡°Maternal aunt, when I was young, you always pampered me. Why is it that you¡¯re treating me like this because of a stranger?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was speechless and felt that Miss Qian had, from the beginning, always saw her as a stranger to the Yun family.


    Madam Yun did not have good feelings towards her niece from her husband¡¯s family. Running out of patience, she waved her hand: ¡°Okay. In a little while, go to Ruyi Pavilion for a meal. Afterwards, I¡¯ll have Lou Yun and Cai Yue send you back. Henceforth, do not come back to our Yun residence.¡±


    ¡°Maternal uncle!¡± Qian Feng Jiao cast an aggrieved look at Master Yun.


    Master Yun felt a headache incoming, but he was unwilling to go against his wife¡¯s wishes: ¡°Listen to your maternal aunt. When you return home, Paternal Uncle will give you a new bolt of Jiangnan cloud brocade for you to make new clothes with. Hm, that¡­..Zhu Zhu also has a share.¡±


    He felt that he could not favor one and discriminate against the other, otherwise he will be scolded severely by his wife later. Seeing his wife giving him a meaningful look, he could only pull Qian Feng Jiao outside: ¡°Go to Ruyi Pavilion. I will have someone prepare dishes for you.¡±


    ¡°I did not say I would go. I still have things to say to Eldest Cousin.¡± Qian Feng Jiao was unwilling to forgive what happened earlier and turned around to yell at Yun Shi Yi: ¡°Eldest Cousin, leave that woman and marry me, okay? I¡¯ll let you be my principal husband. What part of that woman is good? What part can compare to me?¡±


    With a large voice, Yun Shi Wei retorted: ¡°Her everything is better than you. She is more beautiful, more gentle, more reasonable, even her voice sounds nicer than yours.¡±


    Qian Feng Jiao sobbed loudly and was pulled and dragged away by Master Yun.


    Madam Yun stared at Master Yun dragging Qian Feng Jiao out of Jian Garden before turning to Yun Shi Wei, disciplining him: ¡°It¡¯s not like you don¡¯t know what sort of temper Feng Jiao has, yet you still dared to let her inside. In the past, you were all small and could play together. Now you are all grown but you still don¡¯t take into account the possible consequences. Zhu Zhu¡¯s character is good to not bicker with you about this. If she was another person who was not as forgiving, I would like to see what you would do then?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei complained: ¡°Isn¡¯t it all because Mother and Father instructed us to always yield to that stupid girl? Did Mother really think I would pay attention to such someone so uncivilized and argumentative? And now somehow it¡¯s all my fault.¡±


    Pointing her finger at his nose, Madam Yun scolded: ¡°Who do you think you are? Learning martial arts for how many years and practicing how to control your temperament, yet you¡¯ve become feral. Yesterday I met Ma Cui Yun on the road as I was returning. At that time I didn¡¯t know you had even had your crotch touched. You shameless and smelly kid dare to make a fuss in front of this old woman. What a disgraceful child lacking in character. Later, go do embroidery with Lou Yun and Cai Yue. If you can¡¯t do it well, you will be forbidden from practicing martial arts for a month and also forbidden from leaving the Yun residence.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± Yun Shi Wei was distressed and bowed with clasped hands over and over again towards Madam Yun: ¡°Son was wrong to contradict Mother. If you are still angry, then just hit me one hundred times with a paddle to relieve your anger. Please, by all means, you must not have me learn how to embroider. I will be tortured to death and the embroidery needles will pierce through my fingers. The skin on this body was given by the parents so it must not be harmed. If this son were to be wounded, wouldn¡¯t it be Mother that would feel distressed and painful? At that time even if this son compensates you by dying a hundred times, it would still be this son¡¯s greatest unfilial act.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s laughter fell like thunder. This Yun Shi Wei normally seems rather simple-minded, and she didn¡¯t think there would be times when he was this amusing.


    [a] µ¶Ç¹ | Dao Qiang | lit. sword and spear ; ½£êª | Jian Ji | lit. double-edged sword (+) halberd


    [b] Lin Chi Ling is a Taiwanese model, actress, singer. (Wikipedia)


    [c] ¹¶¦¼Ç | The Deer and the Cauldron (Wikipedia)


    [d] Cucumis/walnut/motorcycle lines are from an internet ¡®cursing manual¡¯. Cucumis is similar to a cantaloupe in shape but is related to cucumber family. Melons are usually hit to test if ripe. Walnuts need to be hammered to open them. Complete motorcycle line is ¡®You are a broken motorcycle, asking to be kicked (in anger)¡¯

 Chapter 14 - Hand in Hand by the Roadside

    Madam Yun also laughed. Although she had more than ten children, from the beginning, the position of the eldest son from the principal husband was above those of the other children. Shi Yi and Shi Wei were Master Yun¡¯s children, thus had a status that her secondary husbands¡¯ children were not capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with.


    ¡°After you all have finished eating, you two brothers and Zhu Zhu come over to my courtyard. I¡¯ll ask the kitchen to add some more dishes so don¡¯t return to your residence tonight. Shi Yi, Mother knows you are busy with your shop in the city, but it¡¯s not often that you return home so just stay another night!¡±


    The head of the Yun household earnestly said in a well-mannered fashion while putting on airs. The way his parents spoke to him were unlike how they spoke to their other sons, where they usually instructed and admonished.


    ¡°Understood. This son will do as Mother bids.¡±


    Madam Yun looked with satisfaction at her son and daughter-in-law before leaving Jian Garden. The two Yun brothers and Ruan Zhu sent her to the entrance, staying until they could no longer see no figure. Afterwards, Yun Shi Wei shouted loudly: ¡°Dao Qiang, Jian Ji, go order Xiao Feng and Xiao Shan, those two disgraceful dogs, to come over for this old master! Fuck, they even dare to sell out this old master. I must get rid of these two backstabbers[a].¡±


    Madam Yun must have received the information that he had been insulted by Ma Cui Yun from Xiao Feng and Xiao Shan.


    Ruan Zhu pfft in laughter. She had heard Yun Shi Yi mention Xiao Feng¡¯s and Xiao Shan¡¯s backstories on their ride to the Yun family manor. They were originally slaves that had been born and raised in this residence and then later, followed Yun Shi Yi. All their contract expenses had been paid by the eldest young master of the Yun family and had zero connection with the second young master. From what basis did he want to use to call them backstabbers?


    Suddenly, her waist felt tight¨CYun Shi Wei had picked her up into the air, freely laughing: ¡°Zhu Zhu, Spouse, you can¡¯t leave. You¡¯ve already agreed to stay in Jian Garden and accompany me.¡±


    He had agreed, but when did she agree?


    Ruan Zhu looked at Yun Shi Yi, her eyes crying out for help. He smiled at her, signaling soundlessly with his mouth: Be at ease!


    Helpless, Ruan Zhu was carried by the Yun family¡¯s second young master into his bedroom.


    Nowadays, there were many things that caused one to feel depressed. The Chinese football team failed to qualify for the World Cup; basketball has finally come close to football, joining hands and succeeding in becoming fellows in the same boat, both contributing to corrupting the world of sport; women¡¯s volleyball has slid from its legendary state in the 80¡¯s to now being below average; and at the Olympics, Liu Xiang hurt his leg.


    But, now all of that has nothing to do with her. It¡¯s better for her to look after what is currently in front of her eyes!


    Ruan Zhu was carried by Yun Shi Wei onto the bed. Miserably, she sized up his bedroom. There was no trace of an attractive style at all. It was all furniture: chairs and tables, a bed. There was none of Yun Shi Yi¡¯s literary and elegant style. No famous paintings, no guqin, there weren¡¯t any calligraphy scrolls or anything that even remotely resembled paper.


    The bed¡¯s mattress was not thick enough¨Cit looked to be about the same thickness as her waist. It could be said that the one sleeping on this mattress had to have a strong body. Rather than saying this was the room of a rich second generation, it was better to call it a military barrack.


    ¡°Hey, rich second generation¡­.ah, no, Second Cousin, are you poor?¡± When it comes to Ruan Zhu, this person, she was normally unusually absent-minded and her temperament was also a little muddle-headed. Prior to age fifteen, even if she had walked a path three of four times before, she would still get lost. With an exception for the romance novels she loved to read where she could remember every single characteristic of all the attractive male leads, she could still sometimes forget to do the homework that her teachers had assigned the same day. Even she herself was surprised by how she got into college. How had she managed to muddle her way to a passing score?


    ¡°Poor?¡± Yun Shi Wei was in the middle of untying her clothes. Hearing her question, his movements stopped.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s waist and legs were still sore from this morning¡¯s passionate scene. Feeling somewhat uneasy after remembering his reckless enthusiasm, she looked all around her for a topic to divert the attention of the other party. ¡°This bed will injure my back and waist. If I lay down on it, the muscles of my back will become strained. You are a man so your body may not feel uncomfortable, but if a woman¡¯s back has the slightest injury, she will be unable to bear children.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s expression became serious. Not being able to have children was a grave matter as it was a major problem with severe consequences. He spun on his heel, heading towards the living room before pushing the door open to go outside.


    ¡°Dao Qiang, Jian Ji, go to Steward Zhao and bring two thick mattresses over. Hurry, I¡¯m impatiently waiting to use them!¡±


    Arriving at the courtyard, he pulled open the door and shouted out. He was so loud that Ruan Zhu could clearly hear him from the bedroom. This idiot, how could he say it like that? Wouldn¡¯t the people listening to him have their imaginations run wild?


    Feeling satisfied, Yun Shi Wei returned to his bedroom only to find the room empty of people except him. There was no sight of his beloved woman¡¯s footprints and he stared blankly for a while. Abruptly, he flew into a rage: ¡°Yun Shi Yi, you despicable bastard, lacking in morals. I, Yun Shi Wei, am not finished with you!¡±


    On a sandstone road outside the Yun manor, Ruan Zhu wandered side by side with her hubby from the ancient era. Immersing herself in the warm breeze, she admired the vast open country and fields full of the figures of bustling farmers working in groups of two or three people, sowing seeds. Her mood also became tranquil.


    The ancient era did not have internet or modern civilization but this primitive atmosphere that was pure and dignified really fascinated her.


    ¡°Second Cousin won¡¯t be angry, right?¡±


    ¡°No matter. He has an irascible temperament but also cools down quickly. Later, if you just say a few words and coax him a little, I promise he will be all smiles.¡± Yun Shi Yi smiled and reached out a hand to smooth her long jet-black hair that had been blown in disarray by the wind. ¡°But tonight you should still sleep in Jian Garden or else the lion would probably roar in rage.¡±


    ¡°Then you accompany me.¡± She didn¡¯t have the courage to face the wild beast alone.


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I was hoping for.¡± Yun Shi Yi¡¯s voice was as bright and clear as the sky.


    The two people walked hand in hand. From their back came a carriage, and as it came closer, it turned out Fifth Husband Zhao was the one driving. Seeing the Yun heir by the roadside, he immediately got out of the carriage to bow in respect.


    The status of a secondary husband was much stronger than that of a bed warmer. The former were able to be recorded into the household registry by the authorities and were considered to be half a slave of their Wife while the latter were considered to be true slaves. It could be said that bed warmers did not have any status whatsoever and were considered their master¡¯s property. Under Tian Chu¡¯s laws, it was not illegal for a family to beat one of their bed warmers or other ¡®true¡¯ slaves to death.


    ¡°Is Hai¡¯er inside the carriage?¡± Yun Shi Yi glanced at the carriage window. The weather was nice and warm so there was only a layer of muslin obstructing the window of the carriage. A single breeze caused the muslin curtain to flutter, allowing a pale man enter their eyes. Although his face looked a bit haggard from his sickness, some of his heroic spirit managed to penetrate through.


    ¡°Replying to Eldest Young Master, Zhao the Fifth is on the way to bring Hai¡¯er to the city¡¯s Tianyi Pavilion, just as Eldest Young Master has arranged.¡± He pushed the muslin curtain to the side, saying into the carriage: ¡°Hai¡¯er, we were fortunate to receive Eldest Young Master¡¯s benevolent favor. Because of this, you have a place to live. Quickly come down and pay your respects.¡±


    The man inside made a sound of assent but just as he was about to get up, Yun Shi Yi waved his hand: ¡°That is not necessary. You should hurry and send him to Tianyi Pavilion and settle him down.¡±


    ¡°Thanks to Eldest Young Master.¡±


    Zhao the Fifth bowed to him again before returning to the driver¡¯s seat and setting off.


    Ruan Zhu gazed at the vehicle as it traveled away from them. Her mind was filled with suspicion. Just now, she had carelessly looked at Hai¡¯er and found him to be a little familiar as if she had met him previously in some location. But she couldn¡¯t remember. After thinking a bit, she could only laugh at her poor memory. It has only been a few days since she crossed into this ancient period and she had only met a few people, so why was she letting her imagination run wild? Is it possible that other than her, there were others that had also crossed over to Tian Chu?


    The two of them continued to hold hands and walk along the road but a little while later, another carriage came from behind them. This time, it was Lou Yun and Cai Yue in the drivers¡¯ seat. The two of them were following Madam Yun¡¯s orders to send Qian Feng Jiao home. Seeing their own young master on the road, they got off the carriage to bow in greeting.


    ¡°Eldest Young Master, Eldest Young Lady, the Master and Madam has requested us to send Miss Qian Feng Jiao back.¡± After Lou Yue finished speaking, he thought a bit: ¡°As we were leaving, we chanced upon Second Young Master searching for Eldest Young Lady all throughout the manor. His expression was not good. He also requested for us to immediately report back if we happened to see our young lady.¡±


    ¡°I understand. The two of you can send Younger Cousin back!¡± Yun Shi Yi said in reply.


    The carriage¡¯s window was wide open. Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes wandered over and saw that Miss Qian sat inside the carriage. The latter had prominent tear stains at the corners of her eyes and seeing her love rival, she glared over with bitter resentment, cursing: ¡°You depraved prostitute that likes to court disaster, I will blind your dog eyes. When stealing men, you dare to steal from this great-aunt. You really have no sense of shame!¡±


    In her extremely simple thoughts, it was Ruan Zhu¡¯s existence that shattered the beautiful dream she had of marrying her eldest cousin. However, she had never considered if Yun Shi Yi would have accepted her. All extremely arrogant people considered themselves as the center of the universe, so they believed all others revolved around them.


    The more Qian Feng Jiao thought, the angrier she became. From her hair, she pulled out a gold hairpin and ruthlessly threw it with all of her strength. She knew a little martial arts so the gold hairpin flew towards Ruan Zhu¡¯s face in a split second. There was not even the opportunity for Ruan Zhu to dodge.


    Yun Shi Yi pushed his body forward. With a swing of his sleeve, the gold hairpin was swept into the small sludge-filled ditch next to the road. He coldly looked at the culprit: ¡°Just based on your crafty, headstrong, egotistical and ignorant temper, no man will ever fancy you. What Shi Wei said was not wrong. No matter what it is, Zhu Zhu is better than you. She is more beautiful, more gentle, more reasonable, even her voice sounds nicer than yours.¡±


    Qian Feng Jiao¡¯s face was pale as she blankly stared. She had always thought Eldest Cousin was an extraordinary man¨Cpure, smart, and noble. Although he rarely spoke and did not seem to really like her, she had always thought it was because of his personality. It was due to her believing she was different in his eyes that she had said all of those things.


    She suddenly burst into tears, wailing so loudly Ruan Zhu felt her ears had gone numb. She moved backwards a few steps, somewhat sympathizing with her. But if someone told you they didn¡¯t like you, shouldn¡¯t you look at where your faults where? Who should one blame in that case?


    ¡°Simply not knowing her place. Lou Yun, Cai Yue, hurry and take her away. I never want to see this person again.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Eldest Young Master.¡±


    Lou Yun and Cai Yue hoisted themselves up to the drivers seat and drove the carriage away.


    Ruan Zhu gazed at the carriage that was getting further and further away. Her two clear almond eyes looked towards the man at her side: ¡°She should know martial arts, right?¡±


    ¡°That is the customary habit of this place. Ever since the An Shi Rebellion occurred several hundred years ago, the Great Ancestor came from Lan Zhou and went on to pacify the whole world. That was the start of the militaristic rule of this country. All the people who share the same hometown as the Great Ancestor proudly practice martial arts and even females will know a few moves.¡±


    ¡°An Shi Rebellion[b]?¡± Ruan Zhu widened her eyes in astonishment. Sure enough, there was some connection with some historical Chinese dynasty. But she wasn¡¯t exactly sure who this so-called Great Ancestor was. She slanted a glance at him and whispered: ¡°You should have multiple years of mutual feelings with your younger cousin from the Qian family, right?¡±


    ¡°Our two families are not too far apart physically so she often visited as a guest. Father has only this one niece so he also quite spoiled her. He had us yield to her every time but we all had our own things to do. Studying, practicing martial arts, I even had to learn how to manage the clan while Shi Wei was a martial arts simpleton. The things I had to do increased even further as four years ago, I went to the city to make a living. Any contact with the Qian family naturally decreased over time.¡± Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes were azure and serene like a lake, displaying his deep love: ¡°Wife, don¡¯t let your imagination run wild. Men are not like you women. Once we accept our marriage, we will absolutely not act recklessly. We treat our wife with extreme devotion.¡±


    Her way of thinking had indeed changed. She had completely written off the men of her original space-time who would toy with women because doing so made them happy. The more women they dallied with, the more reputation the men gained. Being indecent actually caused the womanizer to receive even more attention from other women,


    ¡°Being a man means one cannot destroy his own future prospects. In the case that it happens, it has the meaning of causing damage to his reputation for his entire lifetime. Not only would business be hard to conduct, socializing with people would also be hard to do.¡±


    ¡°Just like Fifth Father Zhao?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi nodded his head. Using his finger to poke at her forehead, he smiled: ¡°You don¡¯t even understand this. Luckily, you are a young lady from a prominent family but it¡¯s clear that you are rather muddle-headed.¡±


    Ruan Zhu lowered her head, hiding her eyes. It wasn¡¯t false that she was always somewhat confused but she is not from a prominent household. Her heart felt slightly melancholic. If Yun Shi Yi were to know that she was not the real Ruan Zhu, would he perhaps long for the previous soul of this body? Immediately, she laughed boisterously. The Heavens let her cross over so and now she clearly is Ruan Zhu and is his wife. How could it be that her relationship with him for a lifetime could not amount to the one day he had spent with the previous soul?


    [a] Term used was ³ÔÀï°ÇÍâ (chi li pa wai) which literally translates to ¡®eat inside, (hand) clinging outwards¡¯. Think of when a person enters a company, learns said company¡¯s trade secrets, quits their job, and then opens their own business based off of their previous job¡¯s trade secrets. That kind of concept.


    [b] °²Ê·Ö®ÂÒ | An Shi Rebellion | rebellion that greatly weakened the Tang dynasty (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 15 - Jian Garden

    When the two of them had strolled enough, they returned to the manor just in time for the evening fare. As the meal was about to begin in Ruyi Pavilion, Yun Shi Wei sat down across Ruan Zhu. His pair of wet eyes stared accusingly at her as if she had committed a great criminal offense.


    Under Yun Shi Wei¡¯s aggrieved gaze, Ruan Zhu felt as if she was sitting on needles. With great difficulty, she managed to last through the evening meal but was then kept behind by Madam Yun for some admonishment: ¡°What happened today? Shi Wei does not look too happy.¡±


    Flustered, Ruan Zhu said: ¡°I¡­.I also do not know why he is like this.¡±


    Madam Yun¡¯s eyes were slightly serious: ¡°The status of a legitimate husband and a secondary husband is not the same. It is not easy to carry a bowl of water without causing a ripple to form.[a] When all is said and done, Shi Yi and Shi Wei are full brothers, and it would be difficult to manage if hostility were to arise between siblings. It is only when men are happy at home that outside matters can go smoothly. Can you understand this?¡±


    ¡°This child understands.¡± Ruan Zhu respectfully replied. Being a wife of the ancient eras was not easy, but it should be much easier with Tian Chu¡¯s circumstances, right?


    ¡°The wife¡¯s responsibility is to keep the household peaceful. If the inner courtyard were to erupt in chaos, such as the husbands were to start fighting or hinder each other, everything that had been obtained with effort will be for naught. The household can no longer be called a household, the married couple can no longer be called a married couple. It would be precisely because the wife is incompetent.¡± Madam Yun paused for a moment before continuing: ¡°However, men will also have times when they are disobedient. At those moments, punishing them according to your household rules is possible, but you must not let them lead you by the nose.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Ruan Zhu did not know how the ancient man with three wives and four concubines dealt with problems in his harem. When required, was it not that the troublemakers were beaten with planks or punished with kneeling in the ancestral hall? If it was a grave crime, they would be submerged in a pond or ordered to roll on a bed full of nails.


    ¡°But Shi Yi and Shi Wei are both sensible and prize harmony as much as possible. Punishing others with the household law is fine, but you should exempt those two.¡±¡£


    ¡°This daughter-in-law will obey.¡± She felt that this ¡®household law¡¯ was also carefully practiced. In required times, there was no harm in being partial.


    ¡°Ai, you only have two husbands yet a conflict still occurred. In the future when you have many more husbands, how will you handle it well?¡±


    ¡°Many more?¡± Ruan Zhu was startled: ¡°Mother, I would rather not have that many husbands. Two is perfect and I am very satisfied with Eldest Cousin and Second Cousin. If there were more wouldn¡¯t I be¡­..¡± If there were more, wouldn¡¯t she be crushed to death? Eh? Her thoughts were too vulgar!


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I cannot help you.¡± Madam Yun sighed. ¡°Forget it. You should return and take care of the matters in the boudoir. Don¡¯t let the two brothers cause any more trouble.¡±


    Ruan Zhu walked out of Madam Yun¡¯s room and felt that the pressure was too much. At the courtyard entrance, she met the two brothers and couldn¡¯t help but to glare at them. None of them made the move to walk away. The two men only followed behind her until they reached a crossroad where the path on the left led to Jian Garden while the path on the right led to Wutong Building.


    As she was hesitating, she lifted her eyes to see Yun Shi Yi with a smile on his face. Her heart softened.


    Yun Shi Wei leaned over and pulled on her arm, saying attentively: ¡°Zhu Zhu, come this way.¡± Seeing that she hadn¡¯t heard him, his arms wrapped around her body and exerted a little strength, pylling her into a bridal carry.


    ¡°Yet another hug!¡± Frightened by suddenly being lifted into the air, she immediately wrapped her arms around his neck.


    ¡°Haha, I was worried that Wife was tired.¡± Yun Shi Wei happily chuckled as he walked towards his own courtyard while carrying his beloved woman.


    That big bed was still there but the bedding was much thicker than last time. Lying down on it would be super comfortable.


    The way Yun Shi Wei did things really could not be considered gentle. He quickly and efficiently removed Ruan Zhu¡¯s clothes. Before he had the chance to pounce on her, she burrowed into the quilts: ¡°You¡¯re too smelly! Hurry and go bathe or else I won¡¯t let you touch me.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei had also removed his clothes, revealing his slippery smooth body. However, he was unable to eat the grapes dangling in front of him[b]. Pointing at Yun Shi Yi who had entered after them: ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask Eldest Brother to wash himself?¡±


    Ruan Zhu rolled her eyes, disinclined to reply. Yun Shi Yi¡¯s body was always fresh and cool. Even his sweat had a simple fragrant odor, causing anyone who smelled it to be captivated.


    ¡°You go bathe first. After you¡¯ve finished, then I¡¯ll go.¡± Yun Shi Yi shed his outer robes and top, exposing a sturdy and bronzed chest.


    ¡°Then you wait for me, but I forbid you from eating alone!¡±


    Pei! What phrase was that, what is called ¡®eating alone¡¯? Ruan Zhu silently cursed.


    ¡°Dao Qiang, Jian Ji, quickly prepare bath water for your family¡¯s second master. It doesn¡¯t have to be heated. A bucket of water from the lotus vat in the courtyard is fine. You must hurry and pay close attention to the time.¡± Yun Shi Wei hollered outside the window. Highly discontent, he draped a jacket over himself before walking to the adjacent bathroom.


    Every day, the lotus vat in the courtyard was filled to the brim with water to water the plants. This preparation made it convenient for him to quickly wash.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s hand crept into the blankets, stroking Ruan Zhu¡¯s soft and tender body, his originally limp area flying up. His eyes hazy, he tore open the blanket and brought her into his embrace. Lowering his head, he placed kisses on her delicate mounds before bringing a red plum into his mouth, sucking hard.


    ¡°Nn!¡± She couldn¡¯t help but to arch her back, bringing herself closer to his mouth. An intense pleasure rushed into her head like an electric current, making her body feel limp and numb.


    His scorching tongue teased her for a while before winding around her other red bud. He used his teeth to gently bite down and pull while his two hands continuously wandered across her exquisite and clean body, leaving behind a trail of fire across her skin.


    His hand touched her slim waist and slowly traveled downwards, parting her two slender and long legs. A finger slipped between her two flower petals, gently rubbing as it searched for her secret entrance. Finding the little hole, it slid in and lightly probed the inside of her hidden alley.


    The interior had long been dripping wet, which he thought was strange, as the feeling was different from before. He pulled out his finger and held it where he could see. His finger was actually covered in blood and he couldn¡¯t help but expose the bewilderedness in his eyes.


    Ruan Zhu also stared blankly at it. Her menstrual period had come. So that¡¯s why her waist and legs felt especially painful today! She had chalked it up to injury from having too much sex.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, I¡¯m done washing.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was covered all over with water droplets. He eagerly ran into the bedroom, jumped into the bed, and took her entire body into his arms.


    ¡°Ah!¡± His body was like an ice cube causing her to shiver all over. She screamed as her face paled: ¡°Second Cousin, hurry and let go of me. You¡¯re too cold, you¡¯re going to freeze me to death.¡± This impetuous bastard really wanted her life. Especially since her monthlies were here, being stimulated by something so cold caused her underbelly to start cramping in pain.[c]


    Yun Shi Yi wrested her away and used his own body heat to warm her up, letting his internal temperature transmit over. She greedily embraced his waist and stuck herself closely to his skin.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Yun Shi Wei unhappily asked. Was he really that unlikable and annoying?


    Yun Shi Yi placed his right hand on Ruan Zhu¡¯s lower abdomen, lightly rubbing. After a long while, he saw her face had regained color. Only after that did he lay her on the bed, wipe the bloodstains on her legs with a clean towel he had found, and place a small cloth between her legs. Once all of this was done, he covered her with the blanket.


    ¡°Why are you bleeding?¡± Yun Shi Wei asked in alarm: ¡°Are you sick or is it an injury? Do you want me to go send for a doctor?¡±


    ¡°All women will be inconvenienced a few days a month. It¡¯s not a big deal, but it¡¯s important to rest. In a little while, I¡¯ll go to the kitchen and bring back a bowl of brown sugar and honey water.¡± Yun Shi Yi glanced at his brother, faintly saying: ¡°Before you got married, didn¡¯t you review sexual matters? Or was it a case of ¡®in one ear and out the other¡¯?¡±


    ¡°I thought it would be fine if only you remembered.¡± Yun Shi Wei mumbled and hesitatingly looked at his brother: ¡°Does this mean that tonight we can¡¯t do that?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll just have to sincerely endure it for a few days!¡± Yun Shi Yi stared at him before lowering his head and gently asking: ¡°Wife, do you feel a little better?¡±


    The author has something to say: This time, the word count is a little lacking but I¡¯m sleepy so I¡¯ll write more tomorrow.


    [a] Ò»ÍëË®¶Ëƽ, idiom meaning when handling matters, one must be fair and not favor one party over the other


    [b] Reference to Aesop¡¯s fable ¡°The Fox and the Grapes,¡± I believe


    [c] Common Chinese wives¡¯ tale of cold things (ex: being cold, having cold food/drinks, etc) = cramps

 Chapter 16 - The Night is Hazy

    ¡°I¡¯m all right. It¡¯s just that my body is limp and I can¡¯t muster up any strength.¡± She lowered her gaze to squint at his crotch that currently resembled a protruding tent. Her elegant eyebrows knitted in distress and a faint melancholy could be seen in her eyes: ¡°Eldest Cousin, it must be awfully difficult to bear, right?¡±


    ¡°Are you currently able to?¡± Yun Shi Yi gave a smile that was not a smile and pushed her hand back under the blanket. But she took it out and reached directly for her target. Holding his enormous member, she lightly rubbed the soft silk material that separated the two from directly touching.


    ¡°Nn!¡±


    Yun Shi Yi groaned, his lower body unconsciously tilting forwards. Under the ministration of the little hand, a limp feeling steadily saturated his body, and pleasure resembling a current rushed into his head.


    His breathing quickened. Frantically pulling at his belt, his pants immediately slid down¡­¡­He placed her little hand on top of his heat source that had long been swollen and painful. She was merely holding him, but he could see and feel their flesh in direct contact and it was as if he had been burned. Trembling violently, his phallus continued to swell in size and rose up even higher.


    She sat up, as she thought it was inconvenient to be sitting down while trying to carefully relieve his suffering. The brocade quilt shifted with her movements, revealing her full snowy peaks and the stunning view immediately dazzled the man¡¯s eyes. He propped his shaft on her chest, the touch of the young girl¡¯s tender softness making him feel exhilarated.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, me too.¡± Seeing them, Yun Shi Wei¡¯s blood vessels puffed up, causing his little brother to also stand up straight. Seeing something so delicate and something so solid rubbing against each other creating the ultimate pleasure caused him to gasp for breath. Grabbing her other hand, he placed it on his own heat source.


    She held a shaft in each hand, stroking them back and forth with the same movements. Both of them were so large that she could grasp only part of them, but her tender hands still gave the two brothers unparalleled pleasure.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­Wife, you can go faster, just a little faster. Ah¡­..I¡¯m almost there, just like this¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, oh¡­..Spouse¡­..I am also soon.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had been stroking them for a long while now and her hands felt sore. Placing their gigantic phalluses on her full chest, one on each mound, she pressed down on them with her hands.


    The two men simultaneously twitched forward, their movements very fast as they impatiently gasped. Continuously making low groans, it seemed as if they were in a state that was both pure agony and extreme bliss.


    They each separately pulled on one of her arms while their other hands covered her small hands that she had placed on top of her chest. Controlling the strength of her small hands allowed themselves to feel even greater stimulation. One moment pressing down hard, the next moment rotating her hand in circles, continuously rubbing¡­¡­


    The two brothers continued to wreak havoc on her pair of lovely breasts while experiencing the exquisite pleasure of her hand on top.


    They were completely intoxicated with this feeling and longed to stay in this position, never separating for eternity.


    An indeterminate amount of time later, the two men suddenly increased their speed, their movements becoming faster and faster. The first was Yun Shi Wei, who fiercely thrust for a while, shouting as he released all the hot liquid in his body on her chest¡­¡­Immediately following was Yun Shi Yi, roaring loudly as he also discharged his dense passion.[a]


    The two brothers tightly hugged her, one on her left, the other on her right, both breathing heavily with loud gasps. For a long time, neither of them were willing to let go.


    ¡°Wife, you are so good.¡± Yun Shi Yi placed a kiss on Ruan Zhu¡¯s lips before grabbing a towel from the table to wipe her chest.


    Yun Shi Wei placed his hands on her two soft peaks, playing with them by sometimes pulling, sometimes kneading. The spongy sensation made him be increasingly crazy about her. Gradually, Ruan Zhu¡¯s face became tinged with red and she impatiently gasped. Her body leaned on Yun Shi Yi while her hand once again grasped onto the huge scorching rod.


    Lowering his head, Yun Shi Yi sealed her mouth with a kiss. One hand caressed her body, fingers trailing from her belly to even further down, separating the two slender legs, pushing through her seductive flower petals, and entering¡­¡­.


    Ruan Zhu arched her back, softly trembling under his affectionate care. Her eyes were covered with a layer of haze, almost as if a drop of water was going to drip out. Her lips were a little moist and her originally white as snow skin had been dyed to a flushed red.


    Seeing her emotions stirring, Yun Shi Yi increased the strength used in the finger currently digging within her body. His eyes filled with affection, he then lowered his head to bring one red plum into his mouth, tongue nimbly teasing.


    At the same time, Yun Shi Wei had taken the other bud into his own mouth. Although what he was doing could only be described as ¡®crude gnawing¡¯, he fortunately controlled his strength, and the slight ache gradually transformed into numbness throughout her body. An indescribably delicious taste coursed through the the two heads at her chest, flowing into their bodies.


    ¡°Wu¡­¡­¡± So hot. She felt as if she was on fire and the sensation was extremely uncomfortable. Ruan Zhu twisted her body painfully. Someone save her! ¡°Nn, ahh¡­¡­¡± From her mouth suddenly came a series of delicate moans. Her body repeatedly trembled, her legs helplessly randomly kicking the bodies of the two men, causing them to each raise a thigh to press down on her flailing legs. But after the surging wave in her body finally eased, she didn¡¯t even have the strength to even move.


    ¡°Wife, do you feel well now?¡± Yun Shi Yi panted, moving his head away from her chest.


    ¡°Nn!¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s entire body was sweaty and she collapsed onto the bed from exhaustion. Hearing him ask, she couldn¡¯t help but become shy and slowly nodded.


    Yun Shi Yi grabbed a towel and once again wiped her body clean. Placing a clean square between her legs, he held her in his embrace: ¡°Willing for our hearts to only hold one person while never separating even after the hair on our heads have turned white¨Call the men in this world have such thoughts, but only a few have the fortune to be treated this way by their spouse. Though the time I have spent with Wife is short, there is a sense of camaraderie, and it has left a deep impression on this husband.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi revealed the thoughts in his heart, but Ruan Zhu thought, isn¡¯t it not like this? In her past world, she had expected to remain alone until death. Yet in this life, she could actually be treasured like so in his heart. It would be a lie to say she was not touched. Reclining on his solid arm, contentment suddenly welled up from the bottom of her heart.


    Yun Shi Wei was still lustily playing with her chest as if he wasn¡¯t satisfied. Being relieved once did not make his large member deflate. On the contrary, it had the tendency to bring it up to another level. Ruan Zhu was really helpless. This was the period every month when her health was at the weakest so she really didn¡¯t have the energy to help him again.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, let¡¯s do it again!¡± Panting, Yun Shi Wei begged and placed her little hand again on the source of his heat.


    Yun Shi Yi was also uncomfortably swollen but he was even more unwilling to hurt her. Extending an hand to push his brother¡¯s away, he warned: ¡°If you don¡¯t behave, I¡¯ll open this window and throw you out into the courtyard to cool off.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei resentfully grumbled: ¡°This is my courtyard. You¡¯re acting as if you¡¯re the master, like a turtledove seizing a magpie¡¯s nest[b].¡±


    Yun Shi Yi sneered: ¡°Okay, good. I¡¯ll just take Zhu Zhu and leave. Whatever you want to do, you can do alone. In the future, there¡¯s also no need for you to go to my Wutong Building.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t. I was wrong, is that not enough?¡± Yun Shi Wei hurriedly begged for forgiveness, immediately becoming much more sincere and well-behaved.


    Smiling as she heard the two men bicker, Ruan Zhu laid between them and not long after, closed her eyes. During the night, she was woken by Yun Shi Yi. Half asleep, she drank a bowl of brown sugar and honey water before burrowing into his arms and falling back asleep in his embrace.


    Because she was feeling uncomfortable, they stayed at the Yun manor for a few more days. Early morning on the fourth day, they packed up and got on the carriage, embarking on the road back to the city.


    [a] Author used YSW¡¯s name twice so I listed YSW first because he seems more hot-headed than YSY.


    [b] ð¯Õ¼Èµ³², idiom meaning taking what is not yours

 Chapter 17 - City Gate

    Glossary


    ʱ³½ | sichen |time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Their carriage traveled for approximately half a sichen, but as they arrived at the city gates, they saw a dense mass of other carriages queuing to enter the city.


    Yun Shi Yi sent Xiao Shan forward to ask the situation, just to find out that these past few days, a flower thief[a] had appeared in the city. Upon meeting a pretty woman, the rapist would stamp their door, and true to the meaning of the mark, would stealthily enter the woman¡¯s residence at night. After that, a romantic show of I-am-you-and-you-are-me devoid of actual feelings would occur for a long while.


    The women of Tian Chu did not care much for purity. For those that were not married, being chaste was something they could consider, but it wasn¡¯t that important. As for those who had married, which one of them did not have three husbands and five other men serving them? Those females knew even less of why being virtuous was supposed to be a thing. That rapist¡¯s methods were exceptional with superb skill, giving the women he ooxx¡¯d with a taste of heaven. This caused the majority of the females to adore him in their hearts, including the wife of the prefectural magistrate, who was considered a person of outstanding talent. Not daring to annoy his wife, the official could only endure it.


    But reportedly, last night, the rapist had slipped into the prefectural magistrate¡¯s inner courtyard and knocked him out after the latter had just gotten ready for some pleasant evening activities. Throwing the unconscious man under the bed, the flower thief then pulled the magistrate¡¯s wife for a nice round of lingering passion. After waking, the official flew into a rage. The moment the sun rose, he issued a search warrant for the one that would cause harm to the women of this world and ordered the investigation to be conducted from house to house. Even the process of travelers entering and exiting the city had to be strictly supervised.


    With disgust on his face, Xiao Shan described the rapist. What was ¡®he humiliated the male population¡¯? This man was shameless and excessively lascivious. Once captured, he should be submerged in a lake, beheaded, and burned at the stake into ashes. Not killing him would not be sufficient to appease the commoners¡¯ anger and resentment, and also would not be enough to give the men of this world face.


    With this situation, Ruan Zhu has seen two kinds of situations regarding the men of Tian Chu¨Cfickleness and devoutly safeguarding their virtue. She laughed into her sleeve. Because the prefectural magistrate wanted to get rid of the flower thief, she was afraid that many females would hate him to death and he may even have to sleep on the floor tonight per his wife¡¯s orders.


    Seeing that it would still be a while before their carriage could enter, Yun Shi Yi exited the carriage with Ruan Zhu to relieve their boredom. As for Yun Shi Wei, he was actually a pretty lively one and had long ran to the city¡¯s entrance to become another enthusiastic spectator.


    ¡°Eldest Young Master, Eldest Lady, how is it that the both of you are also here?¡± A thin elderly man of around sixty years bowed respectfully at Yun Shi Yi with a happy expression.


    ¡°So it¡¯s Manager Li.¡± Yun Shi Yi nodded his head. Manager Li was Yun family¡¯s previous servant. As a result of his many years of responsible and diligent service, Master Yun thought fondly of him. Not only did he tear up his slave contract, he even gave him the position of a manager.


    ¡°Wife, this is Manager Li. The day we married, he was also there, but you might not remember as there were so many people on that day.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had previously heard Yun Shi Yi bringing up matters related to the Yun family so still had some recollection of this Manager Li. If she remembered correctly, he should be the manager of Wanyue Teahouse and the one that Master Yun had ordered Fourth Husband Wu¡¯s son, Wu Bin, to replace. She slightly bowed her body in respect: ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe Manager Li has already completed sixty years of life as one seems to be all smiles, radiating with enthusiasm and full of spirit.¡±


    ¡°This one does not dare, this one does not dare. Eldest Lady must not be polite to this little one.¡± Manager Li beamed with joy and repeatedly bowed with his hands in front.


    ¡°Literally speaking, Manager Li is also one of my elders so being courteous is what I should do.¡± Ruan Zhu had just crossed over so the notion of following the strict social ranking was not that ingrained.


    ¡°Eldest Lady is very humble.¡± Manager Li awkwardly laughed: ¡°These two Masters, please excuse this one for speaking out of turn. It will be a long while before entering the city is possible and standing here is very tiring. How about these Masters go to the family¡¯s teahouse to pass the time while enjoying tea and some refreshments?¡±


    The Yun family¡¯s Wanyue Teahouse was not far, only about a hundred meters away, from where they currently were. After walking a few minutes, they arrived at the entrance and headed into a spacious private room on the second floor. A while later, Wu Bin also entered and presented information regarding the teahouse¡¯s sales after paying respects to his eldest brother and eldest sister-in-law.


    It has to be said that the Yun household¡¯s third son did not know how to behave with integrity. Seeing other people live fulfilled and happy lives, he would want to go against them. But against the eldest legitimate son of the Yun family, he was rather apprehensive.


    He had been ordered by Master Yun to run this teahouse so he first needed to learn the basic management skills. Without waiting for Manager Li to speak, Wu Bin had instructed the servers to bring in the teahouse¡¯s most famous teas and exquisite pastries.


    Ruan Zhu was not used to how the ancients had their tea and refreshments. The boiling method of the tea leaves was not enough to bring out the rich and mellow flavor and instead made it somewhat bitter. Ah, right, the invention of stir-frying tea leaves should have come from the Ming dynasty![b] She remembered that she had read Lu Yu¡¯s¡¶The Classic of Teas¡·before. Though she had forgotten what he had specifically written, if she invited a few experienced tea experts to slowly develop the technique, it was definitely possible for her to one day create this era¡¯s best tasting tea.[c]


    In that case, wouldn¡¯t she replace Lu Yu and become the ancestor of tea?


    A city girl crossing over into the ancient era creating her own career¡­..relying on a man to survive could not be considered humiliating but it also wouldn¡¯t bring about grandeur. Shouldn¡¯t she also open a teahouse to play with? She could introduce the method of stir-frying tea and then later open modern Western-style restaurants. After a few years, her profits would skyrocket.


    ¡°What are you thinking of?¡± Yun Shi Yi asked with interest after seeing his wife smirking.


    ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be fun if I tell you now~¡± Every transmigrator first handled their affairs well to let everyone in their new world be astonished with their ¡®new¡¯ idea while they reaped the profits silently in the background. Then, as people began bad-mouthing and looked down on them, they would finally reveal themselves as having talent that surpasses the other.


    The young couple were in the midst of joking around when a familiar voice suddenly issued from the doorway. Because the weather was hot, door to their private room was wide open so the transmitted voice was exceptionally loud and especially distinct. It was a female: ¡°Shopkeeper, send out your shop¡¯s best tea for this old woman. Fuck, this weather is so hot I¡¯m gonna die but they still don¡¯t allow us to enter the city. What kind of morality is this?¡±


    Ma Cui Yun!


    Ruan Zhu and Yun Shi Yi looked at each other. It was the same Ma Cui Yun that had crudely mocked her the day they had left the city. It seemed as if from birth, Ruan Zhu was fated to be unable to deal with this woman. Shame that Yun Shi Wei was not here, causing her to lose out on seeing another scene of ridicule.


    There was another woman with Ma Cui Yun. She was very tall and her three measurements were very butch. Without looking at her appearance, Ruan Zhu would have thought she was a man. She heard the woman say: ¡°The flower thief is reportedly very handsome. As tender as a young spring scallion with skin as white as mutton fat jade, as if simply touching would be enough for water to seep out. No need to talk about how many have been brought to ecstasy by him, squirting out how much liquid.¡±


    ¡°The way you¡¯re speaking is as if you¡¯ve seen him and you¡¯re reporting to your master. He¡¯s only able to float so high because of all the water that¡¯s been sprayed. This old lady does not value that kind of lousy goods.¡± Ma Cui Yun curled her lip, her eyes becoming unfocused: ¡°It¡¯s not as if this old woman has never seen a beautiful man before. The Master of the Tianyi Pavilion is what you can truly call attractive. It¡¯s a pity that he¡¯s like the clouds in the sky¨Cable to see but unable to touch.¡±


    The Second Master was also not bad. The two of them were twins, exactly the same, but Yun Shi Yi¡¯s temperament was more noble so it was difficult to blaspheme him in their hearts.


    They¡¯re talking about you! Ruan Zhu gave Yun Shi Yi a meaningful glance, a faint trace of teasing found in her eyes. But the involved person acted as if he hadn¡¯t seen it and unhurriedly picked up his teacup for a sip.


    Ruan Zhu was completely disregarded.


    The woman that had arrived with Ma Cui Yun was still lost in her thoughts, her face full of admiration: ¡°If I was able to sleep with the flower thief, even if one night cost me ten years of my life, I would be willing. I¡¯ve heard that all of the women he¡¯s slept with say his skill is exceptional and not lacking for anything. Also, he¡¯s able¡­¡­able to do it seven times in one night¡­¡­¡±


    Seven times? That long of a period and he wasn¡¯t impotent? Ruan Zhu expressed her sympathy.


    Yun Shi Yi eyed her and finally said a sentence: ¡°How many times a night does Wife like?¡±


    Ruan Zhu furiously blushed and looked at him with displeasure. Luckily, this was a private room and Wu Bin and Manager Li had long exited, so other people were not present. Otherwise, she really would have wanted to dig a hole in the ground and hide in it. Outside the room was full of pornographic jokes. She was not yet eighteen so it was really not suitable for her to hear these things! With one move, she pulled the door shut.


    Yun Shi Yi lightly smiled and tugged her onto his lap, saying: ¡°I do not object to you accepting a few more secondary husbands, but I do not like men like the flower thief. As for whether or not his skin is tender enough for water to seep out, I do not care about this either. The most important thing is that he is obedient and his background is pure.¡±


    Ruan Zhu extended her hand to whack him: ¡°Your brain has problems. When did I ever say I wanted to accept concubines? I am perfectly content with just you and Second Cousin.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi sighed: ¡°This is the imperial court¡¯s order¨Cevery woman must have at least five husbands. This is merely to continue the population and to not let even more men be forced to become Buddhist monks.¡±


    If all the men in Tian Chu entered a monastery, then who would exert their strength for the country if foreign forces were to invade? Could it be that they would send a group of monks to go into battle to kill the enemy?


    Ruan Zhu did not comprehend: ¡°I am not willing. Will I still be forced by the imperial court?¡±


    ¡°They wouldn¡¯t go so far as to threaten you. Instead, they will pick some men in your stead and send them to your residence. At that time, it won¡¯t be up to you anymore. You may be sent men that have gone against the law or those with loose morals. Maybe you¡¯ll also receive men like Fifth Father Zhao who already has a child. Rather than being plotted against by the authorities, it¡¯s better for us to look for clean families and accept a man with with high moral qualities and appearance.¡±


    [a] ²É»¨´óµÁ lit. flower thief, euphemism for rapist.


    [b] Recall how she currently believes Tian Chu is a space-time distortion formed after the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE). Ming dynasty is 1368-1644. ³´²è (Stir-frying/saute tea) is a method of ¡®cooking¡¯ tea leaves until they¡¯re dry, I think.


    [c] Author actually put ¡¶Â½Óð²è¾­¡·(Lu Yu Classic of Teas). The Classic of Teas is the first monograph of teas in the world, written by Lu Yu. (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 18 - The Man in White

    TN: The author changed the name of Lan Province starting from this chapter. Previously, ÖÝ as in prefecture/province was used, but now it¡¯s ÖÞ as in continent/island in a river. I will be renaming Lan Province to Lan Zhou to simplify things. And to clarify, yes, Lan Zhou is a city.


    Glossary


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    What kind of situation was this? Ruan Zhu was in a bad mood and grumbled: ¡°I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t have the leisure to provide for such a large household.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi smiled and gently tapped her nose: ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about this matter. The men of Tian Chu are not in such dire financial straits as to need females to provide for them, so you don¡¯t need to display such a gloomy face. If others were to know about this, they would think that this Head Yun is unable to support his wifey.¡±


    In Tian Chu, it was regarded as exceptionally humiliating if one was unable to provide for his wife. Even if a man was to became a Buddhist monk due to a lack of talent, there were no monasteries that would be willing to accept such a disgraceful disciple.


    Ruan Zhu was teased with until she smiled: ¡°You Head Yun is so exceptional, there will be females that like you no matter where you go. We even ran into one of your admirers just after entering a teahouse. This era is where women are respected. If it was switched to how it was several hundred years ago when men were the ones with seniority and could have three wives and five concubines, you would already have a whole heap of children.¡±


    These few days while she was at the Yun manor, Ruan Zhu had especially sought out a book detailing the history of Tian Chu. It turns out this world was not at all a continuation of the Tang dynasty timeline after the An Shi Rebellion. Rather, a provincial governor by the two-character surname of Xuanyuan from Lan Zhou had led troops to seize Chang¡¯an[a]. Afterwards, he eliminated all opposing powers before restoring the country to one based on political and military achievements. He officially named this country ¡®Tian Chu¡¯.


    It¡¯s unknown if it was because the Tang dynasty¡¯s fate had not yet ended or if the principal governor¡¯s actions had angered the Heavens, but after the Xuanyuan clan successfully created the nation of Tian Chu, a period of suffering that was practically a devastating epidemic occurred in the fourth year after the founding of the country. This plague wreaked havoc on the female population, causing it to rapidly decrease.


    The disease specifically targeted women. Whether it was because they were too healthy or their physique was too different, men were completely immune.


    An innumerable amount of women died as a result. If one solely considered a single day in the ancient capital of Chang¡¯an that was now famous in the modern ages, over seven thousand female corpses were cremated.


    This disaster extended worldwide. It spread to Fusang and Liuqiu in the east, to Rome in the west and to Java in the south.[b] In the north, it reached to where the rakshasas reside and covered their entire territory. In short, anywhere that had people was devastated by this devil¡¯s epidemic.


    But not only that, the epidemic also changed the human genes. After the catastrophe, humans discovered that the female birth rate had decreased so much that they didn¡¯t even amount to a quarter of the male births. Furthermore, all female children were born with a frail constitution and their chances of survival also weren¡¯t high.


    Not long after, the ¡®one woman many husbands¡¯ law was issued. In an effort to practice what one teaches, the Emperor took it upon himself to be an example and wed a joint Empress with his brothers. All the cabinet members also followed the example of their superior, one after the other sharing a wife with their brothers or taking the initiative to find other males for their wife. This caused the trend to become very popular among the people. Thus, through these various means, the population was able to increase and the nation¡¯s power remained rich and powerful.


    ¡°What do you mean ¡®a whole heap of children¡¯? Why would Wife say it like this? In the future when we have children, you must not say such ridiculous things.¡± In the eyes of this Head Yun, family and children were sacred so one could not be irreverent.


    ¡°I got it. I won¡¯t call it a heap, I¡¯ll just call it a nest of piglets. That should be fine, right!¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s impression of this society¡¯s females was that they would have to give birth to and raise over ten children during their lifetime. A crowd of children surrounding their mother¨Cwherever she went, they¡¯d go. This scene was pretty much the same as leading a drove of piglets.


    Little pigs sometimes are really annoying, but they could also be pretty cute. When she had watched Journey to the West on her TV, the one that had attracted her attention the most out of the four protagonists was precisely older brother Zhu.[c]


    Yun Shi Yi helplessly forced a smile as he remembered that his little wife was only fifteen years old, a child still brimming with innocence. It wouldn¡¯t be fair to compare her to an adult¡¯s standard.


    Ruan Zhu looked outside the window. The inspection at the city gates was nearing the end as the majority of the carriages and travelers had entered the city. Xiao Feng and Xiao Shan were idly chatting next to their carriage. Yun Shi Wei had also finished his walk and returned with Dao Qiang and Jian Ji following behind him. During this parental visit, he had organized the things in his Jian Garden into two large carriages and ordered his two personal servants to return to the city with him.


    The Yun residence in the city was the Yun family¡¯s Eldest Young Master¡¯s property. Before getting married, the second young master of the Yun family did not consider this as his home, but after getting a taste of a relationship between a male and a female, he genuinely started thinking of the Yun residence as his and essentially established himself there.


    Even though it was around March or April, these few days have been abnormally sweltering. As a result, Ruan Zhu drank a few more cups of tea and now felt the need to empty her bladder. Yun Shi Yi saw that her expression was not good and asked: ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Embarrassed, Ruan Zhu responded: ¡°I accidentally drank too much tea and would like to relieve myself.¡± If it was at the Yun residence, it would be fine and easily done. But since this was outside, it was probably really inconvenient to relieve herself. Thinking of this, it made her reminisce even more fondly of the flush toilets in her previous life.


    ¡°The lavatory is in the back garden. After exiting through the back door, take a left at the corner and you¡¯ll see it. I¡¯ll take you there.¡±


    ¡°No need. I¡¯m just using the toilet so why would you, a grown man, follow me? Could it be that we¡¯re going to do something explicit there?¡±


    Alone, Ruan Zhu walked out of the private room. Across from them was where Ma Cui Yun was seated and the entrance to her room was wide open. Hearing the sound of a door, Ma Cui Yun instinctively turned her head just to see her love rival. She became exceptionally envious and her eyes filled with hatred.


    As if nothing had happened, Ruan Zhu calmly left the view of the pair of eyes that wanted to drill holes into her. She didn¡¯t steal the other¡¯s man so there was no need for her to have a guilty conscience. Her two hubbies were talented enough to also be able to protect her. It was hard enough having to conduct herself with her tail between her legs in her past world, so in this life, she would do her utmost to live her days with her head held high and her chest out.


    Reaching the back garden, she found the toilet and at long last resolved the issue with her physiology. On her way back, she came across a male dressed in white. He didn¡¯t have the same sort of imposing and impressive manliness that captured people like her two hubbies had. Nevertheless, he was simple and elegant, as if he was an immortal. With a silver cap on top of his thick jet-black hair, a pair of slender peach blossom eyes glanced at Ruan Zhu and immediately exposed a dazzling smile.


    ¡°I was just wondering why the Eurasian magpies were singing so joyfully in the trees. What a splendid beauty with a lotus face, floating by like a cloud, giving off such a quiet and exquisite charm with a waist as slim and graceful as a young willow. But I do not know which family this Miss is from? Is it possible for this humble one, Liu Fei Xu, to ask for Miss¡¯s esteemed name?¡±


    Was he referring to her? Ruan Zhu blinked her eyes. In her past life, she had an ordinary appearance and even by her death at eighteen, had never been addressed by a male. In this life, she had been entrusted with this body¡¯s good appearance and unexpectedly could enter the eyes of beautiful men. Other than secretly being somewhat delighted at this realization, she didn¡¯t have any devious thoughts.


    From time immemorial, no matter if one was male or female, all humans had a kind of vanity in their hearts. They would be strongly attached to beautiful appearances and yearn for the perfect person of the opposite sex. It didn¡¯t matter whether or not you liked the other party. If they complimented you, there would be no sense in taking offense. Thus, Ruan Zhu also couldn¡¯t avoid this convention. It was unrelated with feelings of like or admiration. It was a gaze that was purely appreciative just as one would admire a painting, a poem, or a handicraft.


    ¡°This one is called Qin Zhu and lives in the Qin family village that is twenty li south of this city. This one came to the city a few days ago to visit the Xi Bao Hua Buddhist temple to pray for blessing by burning incense sticks, so is currently staying in the Yuelai inn that isn¡¯t far from here. Mister Liu is just like his name, outstanding talents faintly discernible with a flying appearance. It really makes one feel admiration.¡± She was called Qin Zhu in her previous world, so this didn¡¯t count as speaking falsely. From her mouth spilled out words flaunting the other side, yet in her mind she muttered: Naming him anything was fine but he had to be called ¡®ruins¡¯. Liu Ruins. This person¡¯s parents truly had ability. Not only was the name easy to remember, but the message was also rather profound.[d]


    ¡°The beadwork produced by the land of Qin has such a gentle color and is so exquisitely made. Altogether, it really compliments Miss. This is truly what you call a person taking after their name, such wonderful and satisfactory skill!¡±[e]


    ¡°Mister is too flattering.¡± Ruan Zhu faintly smiled. This man was beautiful without compare, a pair of long and narrow peach blossom eyes faintly sparkling with affection. She feared that if women weren¡¯t careful, they would all sink into those eyes.


    She had just newly married and in her heart, regarded Yun Shi Yi as the most outstanding man in the whole world. Liu Ruins, this chap, may be good looking, but his personality dropped him a level.


    Furthermore, this sort of good-looking guy in her eyes was the same as the cross-dressing men[f] in her past life. Those ¡®fake females¡¯ caused the society based on males and females to be thrown in disarray. The male wasn¡¯t male, the female wasn¡¯t female. By themselves, these fake females weren¡¯t really an issue, but they received widespread coverage through television and other social media. All of this recognition most definitely spurred homosexuality and polysexuality. If this continues, the number of patients suffering from AIDS will also increase.[g]


    Ah, I¡¯ve thought too far.


    Liu Fei Xu looked the maiden before him up and down. She wasn¡¯t the kind of female that was breathtaking at first sight and fell far short of the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam. But her skin was as white as snow, sparkling and pure, which made her seem as adorable as a porcelain doll. And her large eyes that were like bright and clear black pearls were especially mesmerizing.


    ¡°Does Miss already have a husband?¡±


    Whether or not she had a husband didn¡¯t have much of an influence on him. In any case, he was confident he would ultimately be able to have her. After all, don¡¯t all women love beautiful men? He would simply gift her some expensive jewels and ornaments and whisper sweet nothings and honeyed words at the appropriate times. Once the time was ripe, even if she pretended to keep up appearances by not obediently begging him for more, just like how the prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife was, wouldn¡¯t she be the same as a slut with an insatiable appetite once they start?


    ¡°Mister is making a joke. This one is only fifteen years old, how could one have a husband?¡± Ruan Zhu told her lie with a gentle voice and she deliberately revealed a bashful expression.


    Liu Fei Xu has eaten his fill of exotic delicacies but felt that the beauty in front of his eyes was particularly fresh and clean. So tender and delicate, like a ripe fruit that enticed people.


    He smiled slightly. Exposing what he thought was his most charming expression, he walked forward a step.


    Ruan Zhu was originally playing along but unexpectedly, the pretense turned into reality. With every step he took forward, she would withdraw a step, until her back was against the wall and she could retreat no further. All of a sudden, she heard Yun Shi Yi in the building shouting her name Zhu Zhu and hurriedly pushed aside Liu Fei Xu.


    ¡°Aiya, my eldest cousin is calling me. I won¡¯t continue chatting with you and will leave now.¡±


    Ruan Zhu ran out from his side and in an instant, entered the building.


    Liu Fei Xu was caught by surprise by the beautiful maiden¡¯s escape. He was completely unfamiliar with this situation. Previously, it had always been him that first left. When had there ever been a time when a beauty had left him behind? His heart immediately felt a bit ticklish and vowed to see her again.


    ¡°Where did you go that took you this long?¡± Yun Shi Yi couldn¡¯t just sit and wait. Feeling worried, he had been afraid that she had met with some mishap thus had left the private room to look for her.


    ¡°I met an idiot.¡± He was a chap that thought too highly of himself, a classic case of a rich playboy. But if she hadn¡¯t stayed and played with him, wouldn¡¯t that have let down the other party, who had put so much effort into his act?


    ¡°It¡¯s already noon. Let¡¯s hurry and enter the city!¡±


    Yun Shi Yi didn¡¯t ask who Ruan Zhu had met. Per his thinking, if the other party was deemed an ¡®idiot¡¯, that meant they were abnormal and there was no value in asking.


    He held onto her small hand as they walked out of Wanyue Teahouse and happened to meet Yun Shi Wei, who was walking over. Together they ascended their carriage and passed through the city gate after being inspected by the city guards for a while. Finally, they entered Lan Zhou.


    In the carriage, Yun Shi Yi once again had Ruan Zhu sit in his lap: ¡°When we arrive home, I will bring the household ledger for you to look at. From now on, the Yun residence and any businesses in Lan Zhou are under your control¨Cwhatever you say goes. All of the expenses will be yours to oversee and allocate.¡±


    ¡°Stop.¡± Ruan Zhu hurriedly said: ¡°Tianyi Pavilion will still be yours to personally manage. Household matters, I can handle, but for major situations, you make the decision.¡± She didn¡¯t want to cause other transmigrators to lose face with her poor skills. She was impoverished in her past life, so apart from buying food and paying her tuition, only several thousand yuan at the most had passed through her hands. It¡¯s only been a few days since she had crossed over into a wealthy lady of the second generation so she hadn¡¯t had the chance to see how much money she possessed.


    The most pathetic thing in the world that nothing could surpass was not being able to confidently live through each day because one did not have money. But right now, she wanted to tell everyone that in reality, even if you had money, if you didn¡¯t dare or know how to spend it, that is what ¡®tragic¡¯ truly meant.


    [a] ³¤°², the capital of China during the Tang dynasty


    [b] ·öÉ£ (Fusang), mythical island of ancient literature often interpreted as Japan (Wikipedia); ÁðÇò (Liuqiu), could either mean Taiwan, Ryukyu Islands or Penghu Islands (Wikipedia)


    [c] Î÷È¡¾­, Journey to the West, super famous novel with tons of adaptations. Four main characters: Tang Sanzang, Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing. (Wikipedia) Zhu Bajie is part-human and part-pig with the face of a pig. (Image from the 1986 TV adaptation)


    [d] His name (·ÉÐõ, f¨¥i x¨´) sounds similar to ¡®ruins¡¯ (·ÏÐæ, f¨¨i x¨±).


    [e] He¡¯s making a pun. The Öé (zhu) in her name means bead or pearl.


    [f] Term used here is αÄï, lit. false woman. A reference to otokonoko, contemporary Japanese term of males cross-dressing as females (Wikipedia, TV Tropes)


    [g] I just wanted to put it out there that while, yes, you can get HIV through anal sex, you can also get HIV from all other kinds of sex AND from other methods. It only requires contaminated fluids to enter your body. Read more about what truly causes HIV & AIDS (here).

 Chapter 19 - Returning Home

    ¡°Eldest Brother, let me hold her for a while, okay?¡± Yun Shi Wei looked on enviously. Not waiting for Yun Shi Yi to agree, he extended his hand and pulled Ruan Zhu over. Embracing her delicate frame that was both fragrant and soft, his heart was filled with a happiness that couldn¡¯t be lessened. Foolishly laughing, he mused: ¡°I just find it odd how there is such a large disparity between a male¡¯s body and a female¡¯s body. Cuddling such a soft and warm body is so comfortable.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi looked at how the beautiful woman in his embrace had been stolen away and felt a sense of loss. He immediately thought that blood-related brothers sharing a wife was the worst kind of thing to occur. If it was another secondary husband that dared to supersede him, he could still utilize the household laws, but the same could not be said with full brothers.


    Yun Shi Wei hugged Ruan Zhu, but that wasn¡¯t all as his large hands were also roaming around her body. Arriving at her chest, they immediately pinched and kneaded her fullness through her clothes. He said lecherously: ¡°Spouse, this area is so wonderful. Touching it makes me feel as light a a feather.¡±


    This hothead! Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was filled with black lines.[a] Her chest that was being randomly groped by him was somewhat painful as he didn¡¯t quite know how to control his strength. Even so, she didn¡¯t really mind. However, they were currently in the carriage and although there weren¡¯t any outsiders watching, it was still not that appropriate. She looked at Yun Shi Yi with cries for help apparent in her eyes.


    The latter nodded and stretching out his hand, seized her back into his arms.


    ¡°We¡¯re still in the carriage, you impatient baby with no discipline. Whose family¡¯s concubine is like you, undisciplined and out of control? If it wasn¡¯t that you were my brother, I would have sent you to kneel in the ancestral hall without question.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei had been admonished and wasn¡¯t convinced by his reasoning. He grumbled: ¡°I thought there was no one watching?¡±


    At this time, the carriage had already entered the street where the Yun residence was located and from the outside came Xiao Shan¡¯s voice: ¡°Eldest Young Master, Eldest Lady, we have arrived at the residence.¡±


    When the carriage came to a stop, Yun Shi Yi exited by stepping on the stone stepping block outside of the carriage door. Immediately, a group of men that looked like merchants surrounded him, all of them bearing smiles and exchanging conventional greetings.


    ÉÏ/ÏÂÂíʯ | Stone stepping blocks used to get on/off a carriage


    ¡°Head Yun, you are finally back. Us brothers have been trying to call upon you these past few days.¡±


    ¡°This is good. With Head Yun¡¯s return, business can be conducted well.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Us little ones do not dare to make the decisions.¡±


    ¡°Is there a matter?¡± Yun Shi Yi faintly glanced at them. Raising his arms, he lifted Ruan Zhu down from the carriage door and softly said to her: ¡°Go back to rest in the residence. I still have some matters to handle, so I¡¯ll accompany you when I return tonight.¡±


    Ruan Zhu looked at those men before turning back to him with a smile in her eyes: ¡°Then you pay attention to your health.¡±


    At last, Yun Shi Wei had obtained a period where he could be alone with his wife. So happy as if he was crazy, he waved his hand toward his brother: ¡°Eldest Brother, rest assured. If something happens, Younger Brother will handle it on your behalf. Just hand over Wife for me to take care, so feel free to relax even a hundred hearts.¡±


    As Yun Shi Yi left with that group of people, sporadic sounds of their conversation entered Ruan Zhu¡¯s ears: ¡°Head, the batch of wood that we had imported from the south has met with an incident in Feng Zhou¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s footsteps halted, but those people had already gone far and the sounds of their conversation gradually reduced to silence.


    Yun Shi Wei went to order the servants to unload the goods that they had brought from Yun manor. One by one, the chests were transported inside the residence. In a while when everything was unloaded, the servants would then drive the carriage through a side door to the courtyard where miscellaneous goods were loaded.


    She watched for a spell but found it dull. Lifting her skirt, she entered through the main entrance and went to the Yaoguang Courtyard that she shared with Yun Shi Yi. Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing had long received news of their arrival and ran over to welcome their master. Entering the main room, they attended to their Mistress.


    Ruan Zhu was used to bathing regularly thus ordered them to prepare bath water. But when she walked into the bathroom, she saw the two of them standing by the tub with a towel wrapped around their waists while their upper half was naked, exposing their bright and clean skin. She was struck dumb for a moment¨CThis was them waiting to serve her during her bath, right? It had to be.


    A female¡¯s personal servants even had to wait upon them during a bath. Was it possible they had taken some advantages with her body? But that shouldn¡¯t be the case. From the way her two hubbies¡¯ have behaved, her first time should have been on the day she got married.


    Ruan Zhu had only draped a thin robe around her and was wearing nothing inside. She felt really embarrassed. Grasping tightly to her lapel to prevent any springtime scenes from being revealed, she used the most tranquil tone she could muster: ¡°You can both leave, I want to bathe alone.¡±


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing had been with their small Master for multiple years now and the feelings between them were not ordinary. They didn¡¯t understand why their Miss started treating them so coldly after getting married. Feeling distressed, the two of them fell to their knees to kowtow.


    Ruan Zhu was shocked: ¡°What is this? I am not punishing the two of you¨Cthe thought of using a plank or having you face the wall never crossed my mind. Why kneel when everything is perfectly fine? Is it that the two of you find kowtowing to be fascinating?¡±


    She would not eat this pair. Even though she liked pretty boys, she had her own principles when doing things. It wasn¡¯t as if she had crossed over into A Step into the Past and become Xiao Shao Long, who wasn¡¯t choosy when meeting someone of the opposite sex.[b]


    Nuan Chun was choked with emotion: ¡°This little one knows his status is low, but serving Miss all of these years is as sweet as syrup[c]. But nowadays, Miss has Masters and has no need for us little ones. But is it possible¡­¡­¡± His heart felt painful and tears flowed downwards.


    ¡°Is it possible what?¡±


    Nuan Chun was crying so hard he couldn¡¯t answer. Kneeling by his side was Nuan Qing, whose eyes were also moist. Kowtowing, he replied: ¡°Begging Miss to not ignore us little ones and to not send us away. This little one will spare no effort to carefully attend to Miss and absolutely will not dare to be disloyal.¡±


    Ruan Zhu felt as if she was going mad. She merely didn¡¯t want men to service her while she was bathing. How had it become this complicated? She wasn¡¯t Yun Shi Yi, who could silence all disrespectful servants with one glance. She was a civilized person from the twenty-first century that carefully paid attention to equality for all. The collision of these two ways of thinking from these different space-times really could kill someone. She sighed. If her dad was Li Gang, then all would be well. Even if someone was killed, the whole country wouldn¡¯t care.[d]


    Her face stiff, she said: ¡°If I tell you to withdraw, you should do it. What is with all of this?¡± In her mind she was thinking, how about when scolding, she should be like Yun Shi Wei and add another phrase ¡®absolutely disgraceful thing¡¯?


    ¡°This little one will obey.¡± Nuan Chun cried out suddenly, knocking his head on the floor twice. Picking up his clothes, he walked behind the screen and carelessly dressed before pushing the door open and rushing out.


    But Nuan Qing remained kneeling on the ground without moving, a desire to speak once again present in the eyes he directed towards his master.


    ¡°Do you still have a matter?¡± Ruan Zhu understandingly asked. Actually, asking this was to give him some face and the meaning was that if it wasn¡¯t important, he could take a hike.


    ¡°Ever since Miss went to the Yun family¡¯s manor for the parental visit, this little one has not taken a bath. These few days, the weather has been exceptionally hot so an unpleasant smell is on this little one¡¯s body. This little one¡¯s status is originally low so washing or not washing is not an important matter but this little one is afraid Miss will blame¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop. What do you really want to say?¡± Ruan Zhu was unable to make heads or tails of it. If he wanted to wash, then he should go wash. Don¡¯t tell her he wanted to bathe with her like a pair of mandarin ducks? Preposterous.


    ¡°Begging Miss to bestow the key.¡±


    Key? Ruan Zhu felt that she didn¡¯t understand the situation even more. She had taken his key?


    ¡°It is the chastity belt¡¯s key.¡± Nuan Qing flushed red and replied in a low voice.


    Ruan Zhu finally understood everything. In this era, if a male had a master, the majority of them would have their private place locked up in a chastity belt. This was to prevent them from having an affair and the key was usually kept by either their master or their father.


    Chastity belts are forged with fine metal sheets, and if one looks closely, one can see gold ornaments embedded on the belt. Exactly in the middle of the bottom portion, there is a cap, under which is a hole left open for excreting liquids. The entire belt was meant to be tightly strapped around the body, with a strap between the legs. Suspended from a hoop on the waist was a lock that required a specific key to open. However, this type of belt was used by the aristocracy.


    The poor common people usually used leather, sheepskin, or rabbit hide, which are all cheaply priced.


    Ordinarily, the belt could only be taken off when bathing and must be immediately worn again once finished. Only when males had married could their new wife then personally remove the belt for good. But, there were some wives that even demanded their husbands to put on the belts after sexual intercourse to guard against them potentially cheating or relieving themselves. If a man was unlucky, it could be said that his chastity belt would accompany him for a lifetime.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you in charge of all my things? I also don¡¯t remember where the keys are. You can just go look for it in the chests!¡± Although some memories and information from the original owner existed in her mind, it wasn¡¯t comprehensive. From where was she supposed to find his key?


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    Having agreed, Nuan Qing went behind the screen and properly put on his clothes before coming back out. As he was intending to leave in search of his key, he was once again halted by Ruan Zhu: ¡°Wait. Also look for Nuan Chun¡¯s key and give it to him. After you two have finished washing, you don¡¯t need to return it. The two of you can just look after them yourselves. Wouldn¡¯t it be more convenient the next time you want to bathe?¡± From this point on, they would have to comfort themselves by masturbating or by frantically using an inflatable doll. Either way, none of that had to do with her.


    Ruan Zhu had used the softest voice she could, but had still terribly injured this loyal and devoted servant. His eyes at once overflowed, tears dripping one by one: ¡°This little one understands. May Master be at ease.¡±


    Miss actually did not need them and was even unwilling to consider the matter with their chastity belts. He didn¡¯t cry out with large sobs like Nuan Chun. Instead, he wiped his tears and turned around to look for the keys.


    In the bathroom, Ruan Zhu was the only one that remained. Shedding her robe, she stepped into the bathtub. The temperature of the water had already cooled but it was quite pleasant as the weather was too hot.


    She felt regretful towards her two servants, but it was an unavoidable matter. She couldn¡¯t give her hubbies too many green hats. Perhaps he found those things to be nice and warm, but she wasn¡¯t used to it.[e]


    For a while, she was at a loggerheads. Thinking of Yun Shi Wei, she was curious what exactly a chastity belt was. If she had him wear one, what would happen?


    Didn¡¯t he want to go and be an armed escort?


    He would be gone for such a long period at a time. Could he really control the thing in his pants? Hehe, if he couldn¡¯t protect himself, she would give him a chastity belt to try it out.


    Ruan Zhu soaked until nearly all of the warm water had completely cooled before rising from the tub. All of a sudden, she heard the sound of the door opening, and Yun Shi Wei appeared in the bathroom. Seeing that she was bathing, he giddily began to undress.


    Today was his lucky day. Eldest Brother wasn¡¯t home and his wifey was entirely his and his alone.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you come over, I haven¡¯t finished washing yet!¡± Helplessly, Ruan Zhu returned to the bathtub and sat down, using the water to obscure her bare body.


    ¡°That¡¯s perfect. I can help you wash your back.¡± Yun Shi Wei was most definitely not a good boy that obediently listened. With a violent movement, he entered the tub, causing water to splash everywhere, including all over Ruan Zhu¡¯s face and hair. As she was wiping herself with a towel she had found, Yun Shi Wei had picked her up into his arms and sat her down on his thigh.


    ¡°I am washing. What are you messing around for?¡± Ruan Zhu complained as she struggled to get out of his arms. As their skin rubbed together from her movements, she quickly felt a solid rod pressing against her buttocks. Realizing what it was, she didn¡¯t dare to move any longer.


    Males always used their lower half to think and Yun Shi Wei brought this stereotype into greater heights.


    ¡°Spouse, let¡¯s do it one time right now, okay? I haven¡¯t yet done it alone with you, hmm?¡± Yun Shi Wei relied on his smile, similar to how a child would ask for sweets. His two big hands fondled her body: ¡°I know what to do to make you feel good. As long as you feel comfortable, you¡¯ll enjoy this just like me. Rest assured, I definitely won¡¯t let you be disappointed.¡±


    This asshole basically didn¡¯t understand what being romantic meant.


    But, should she agree to him?


    She hesitated. Why did she have the feeling like she was cheating on Yun Shi Yi?


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s stature was extraordinarily broad. His suntanned bronze skin shone and revealed a wilder side compared to his elder brother. He was just like a beast stalking through a forest. This sort of man ought to be a woman¡¯s favorite bed companion but she couldn¡¯t endure the crude and violent movements he mostly used as they always caused her to feel pain.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s breathing became heavier and he lowered his head in the direction of her lips. She instinctively avoided him and he grumbled in displeasure: ¡°Spouse, I brushed my teeth this morning. If you don¡¯t believe me, look.¡± He opened his mouth, revealing straight and orderly teeth that, sure enough, were spotless and without an odor.


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t know what to say in response. It was the same intimate act that she had done with Yun Shi Yi so naturally, yet she felt awkward doing it with Yun Shi Wei.


    But he couldn¡¯t tolerate her hesitation. Yun Shi Wei¡¯s lips pasted onto hers as he sucked on her sweet lips. His tongue suddenly extended and entered her mouth, dominating all of the empty spaces inside. He continuously coiled around her sweet little tongue when he suddenly inhaled, sucking her tongue into his mouth for a taste.


    She was kissed so roughly by him that she found it hard to breathe. Her hands were braced against his chest, wanting to push him away, but this bastard¡¯s chest was too sturdy and there was simply no way she could ever do that. His kiss was both overbearing and wildly intense, containing unbounded enthusiasm and passion. She gradually became engrossed and the hands she had used to try to keep him away became ones that held him closer, tightly embracing him as they clasped behind his neck.


    Time seemed to have stopped. There was only the sound of their breathing and their lips intertwining. Her nose was full of the man¡¯s strong and thick odor. She was held up by his two solid arms and couldn¡¯t call up an ounce of her strength.


    ¡°Spouse, the taste of your mouth is so sweet.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei left her lips and buried his head in her pair of jade peaks for a spell, before letting her stand up in a squat[f] with her legs wide open while he sat underneath appreciating the scenery. She hadn¡¯t thought he would have this kind of hobby but never imagined even more that he would raise his head and place a kiss upwards.


    Ruan Zhu screamed Ah!, her body trembling as she held onto the head underneath her.


    This posture was really too perverted but she had been enticed. Very shortly, her eyes became hazy as she had been kissed by him until her entire body shook. A mere while later, she shrieked. Unexpectedly, she had actually reached the highest clouds from his kisses.


    ¡°Spouse, I saw this in a book. Doing it like this, is it comfortable?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was still lingering in that exquisite sensation, but that sentence caused her to suddenly come back to her senses. She helplessly sighed. Wanting a beast to turn into an angel was impossible.


    Yun Shi Wei held her hips and aiming for his large heat source, had her sit down, linking the two of them in an instant. He promptly violently rammed inside her as if he was a tiger that had been freed. Fortunately, he didn¡¯t forget to tease Ruan Zhu¡¯s sensitive areas or else she would not have been able to endure those kinds of powerful movements.


    Actually, in response to the previous sentences, there were no tigers in the mountains; instead, monkeys claimed themselves as kings.[g] Taking advantage of his eldest brother not being home, Yun Shi Wei simply did it until he was satisfied, moving from the bathroom to on top of the bed in the bedroom, one time after another, neither of them knowing where that strong stamina came from.


    Ruan Zhu had been tossed until she ached from head to toe and thought that even breathing was laborious. She made up her mind¨Cshe must make Yun Shi Wei wear a chastity belt.


    When night fell, Yun Shi Yi returned. Seeing the untouched dishes on the table, he frowned and asked: ¡°Why not get up to eat? Is Wife not feeling well?¡±


    Ruan Zhu had been lying in bed. Hearing a sound, she opened her eyelids and weakly groaned.


    Yun Shi Yi directed his gaze to his brother at the side.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s appearance was just as if he had eaten honey, his entire body relaxed and cheerful. Pushing the blame elsewhere, he explained: ¡°I already urged Spouse. She wouldn¡¯t eat so there was nothing I could do.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi wrinkled his brows. Walking to the bed, he gently pulled back the blanket that was covering Ruan Zhu and immediately was alarmed. Her originally bright and exquisite skin was now covered with an assortment of purple bruises and multiple hickeys. Immediately flaring up, he raged: ¡°Yun Shi Wei, you bastard. You had to go create trouble while I wasn¡¯t home. Are you asking to be hit?¡±


    ¡°It has nothing to do with me. Zhu Zhu¡¯s skin is just too tender so even light touches are an issue.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei knew that this time he had pissed off his eldest brother, but he had absolutely no regrets. Standing up, he quickly fled from Yaoguang Courtyard.


    The author has something to say: My lovelies have said the word count is too small so in the future I¡¯ll add more.


    [a] Á³ºÚÏß is something commonly used in mangas/anime that denotes a gloomy or downtrodden mood but has now also evolved to situations when you¡¯re unsure what to respond with. (Image examples here and here)


    [b] Ñ°ÇØ¼Ç A Step into the Past is a Hong Kong TV series. Xiao Shao Long is the main character. (Wikipedia); Author actually wrote ¡®Xiao Shao Long from the original work¡­.¡¯ but I substituted in the actual name of the series as I wasn¡¯t familiar with this and I suspect most of you aren¡¯t either.


    [c] ¸ÊÖ®Èçâ idiom meaning ¡®to endure hardship gladly¡¯/¡¯glutton for punishment¡¯ aka masochist ( ?¡ã ?? ?¡ã)


    [d] Reference to a internet meme (ÎÒ°ÖÊÇÀî¸Õ, My dad is Li Gang) that arose from an incident in Hebei University where a drunk driver tried to get out of being arrested by using his dad¡¯s name, who was deputy director of the local police. (Wikipedia)


    [e] ÂÌñ×Ó, in China, green hat = cheating


    [f] Actual term used is ¶×Âí²½ (horse stance), an important posture in Chinese martial arts. (Wikipedia & Image) didn¡¯t want to use the actual term to break the flow


    [g] ɽÖÐÎÞÀÏ»¢£¬ºï×ӳưÔÍõ, idiom meaning in the absence of the one on top (tiger), fools (monkeys) could proclaim themselves as the one in charge

 Chapter 20 - Meeting Mister Peacock Again

    Glossary


    [1] Ðç | xu | one of the ancient Chinese two-hour periods; designated for 7-9 pm


    Yun Shi Yi lightly touched his wife¡¯s skin, distress apparent in his eyes: ¡°That scoundrel actually dared to do this to you. Right now, Wife must be in a lot of pain?¡±


    Ruan Zhu weakly smiled: ¡°These bruises are nothing. It¡¯s just that it hurts terribly inside.¡± Her inner areas were shallow but their shafts were long. Every time they had intercourse, Yun Shi Yi would pay attention to this point, but Yun Shi Wei was a rash one and invariably would act recklessly.


    ¡°This husband will apply medicine for Wife.¡± Yun Shi Yi opened up a dark chest on the side table, rummaging for a moment before finding a refined porcelain bottle. Undoing the seal, a fragrant medical scent assailed her nose. He separated her legs, dabbing his finger into the ointment before inserting it inside her¡­¡­


    A refreshing sensation trickled from his fingertips and the originally throbbing pain faded away. Although the two of them had been intimate multiple times before, she still flushed red from his touches and obvious tenderness.


    He withdrew his fingers from inside her. Smearing his fingers again with the ointment, this time he spread it on her skin.


    ¡°This ointment definitely isn¡¯t an ordinary product, so it¡¯s such a pity to use it. These bruises on my body will also disappear in a few days even without applying medicine.¡± Ruan Zhu was accustomed to being poor from her previous life and couldn¡¯t bear to see items being squandered. At this moment, she wasn¡¯t aware that this was the correct way to use the ointment and that this product was also what Tian Chu was most famous for. Its value was worth thousands of gold, similar to ning lu xiang.[a] If she was to know all of this, there was no doubt that she¡¯d spit up blood in shock.


    ¡°No matter how good the ointment is, it will never compare to how important Wife¡¯s body is.¡± Yun Shi Yi spread ning lu xiang over all the bruises on her body. Once he was done, he picked her up into his arms: ¡°Wait for a bit while the ointment seeps into your skin before lying back down on the bed.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not that fragile.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t do. Nurse your body well first. These two days, don¡¯t worry about the household affairs. Just let the steward manage it. After all, it was him that had manged it all previously. If you ever feel that something is not appropriate or right, just simply instruct him to redo it.¡±


    The residence¡¯s Steward Wang was someone sent over by Master Yun and did things with extreme care. However, he was equally bad¨Che loved to drink and gamble and also loved bragging to all who would hear. Drinking and gambling could let other people feel irritated but talking big didn¡¯t mean anything. No matter which direction one blows, it wasn¡¯t possible to blow cows up into the Heavens.[b] Ruan Zhu¡¯s impression of this man was just so-so, but it was inappropriate for her to say anything as she had entered the estate after him.


    She remembered the matter from this morning: ¡°Is there a problem with your work?¡±


    She didn¡¯t really understand how to do business. Actually, she had studied business studies[c] in university in her past life, but she had croaked not long after classes started so was unable to help him.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right. Just take care of eating and sleeping well. Nurturing yourself to be white and plump is the biggest help you can give to this husband.¡± He genuinely did have problems with work, but he didn¡¯t want her to also have to worry. From childhood, his father had taught him that being the master of the house meant having to shoulder the heavy responsibilities of supporting the household. No matter how difficult and painstaking outside matters were, one should and must not lose their temper in front of one¡¯s wife and children.


    After a while, Yun Shi Yi placed Ruan Zhu on the bed. He ordered the servants to take the food on the table to the kitchen to be reheated and then ate a few dishes with his wife.


    There were no such things as entertainment programs to amuse one with in the ancient period. After dinner, one could only read or write. Yun Shi Yi focused on collecting academic books so Ruan Zhu took this opportunity to look over them, but after a while, felt like her head was swimming. Instead, she found a history book to peruse. Even if some of the characters were difficult to understand and were also in the traditional form, it shouldn¡¯t be that difficult to read and understand with the level of education she had gone through. If she were to run into an unfamiliar traditional character, even blindly guessing should be enough to roughly get through it.[d]


    When the time of xu[1] had passed halfway, Ruan Zhu began to feel sleepy. Ever since she had crossed over, her biological clock had basically become the same as an ancient person¡¯s.


    Yun Shi Yi hugged her as the two of them entered dreamland. This night, there was no Yun Shi Wei wreaking havoc beside them. The two of them slept particularly soundly.


    For the next few days, Yun Shi Yi went out everyday as he was busy with work and Yun Shi Wei also needed to look for a job. Alone at home, Ruan Zhu was bored out of her mind. After bringing it up with Yun Shi Yi, she picked a day with nice weather and followed Xiao Feng out the door to go shopping with Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing.


    Yun Shi Yi had especially set aside Xiao Feng to be her guide as he was worried his wife wasn¡¯t familiar with going around Lan Zhou.


    It is said that several hundred years ago, Lan Zhou was a lesser-known town, but because the current dynasty¡¯s Great Ancestor had made his legacy here, the area had also thrived as a result. In addition, the geographical conditions were superior and gradually, the city grew until it became the most flourishing major city outside of the imperial capital. All travelers heading north from the South would choose to stop here for a rest before continuing their travels. An unending stream of everyday goods were unloaded daily from the docks before being transported by land to be sold at various places.


    The living standards of the commoners could be considered higher than in other places, but no matter where one lived, there would always be a gap between the poor and the destitute. Everywhere in the city, there was no shortage of beggars in shabby rags, clutching a broken bowl in the chance that they could receive some money or leftovers.


    Xiao Feng pointed at the male beggars: ¡°Mistress, do not see them as ones to be pitied as they are actually unworthy of sympathy. They are beggars because they are too lazy and unwilling to work hard, which is the only reason why they are currently so miserable. They usually return home after they¡¯ve begged for enough money and then change into bright and neat clothes, looking the same as other commoners. But their position is also not high and will be ignored by their wife and her other husbands at home.¡±


    Being a beggar is also a profession. As much as possible, one should use a normal gaze when looking at them, rather than a biased one. The ancient Chinese had already pushed the profession of a beggar to such heights, and the beggars¡¯ union of modern times was exactly formed this way.


    ¡°When they go out to beg for alms, they do not direct their act towards natives as the latter are aware of their tricks and do not pay them any attention. Instead, they beg in front of the travelers and other tourists. Most of these foreign visitors are wealthy and few of them care about giving away and losing small amounts of money.¡±


    Her previous life¡¯s world was also like this. Beggars especially preferred to linger at train stations or at airports and when meeting a foreigner, would extend their hands outwards. They didn¡¯t want food, only money. If food was given, they¡¯d throw it back in your face and start cursing.


    ¡°The ones that beg for food are truly the pitiable ones. The majority of those are either elderly, sick, or have been kicked out by their wife for having no talents. They live life from day to day and if they found it impossible to continue living, they would find a place to end their life and only the authorities would go collect their bodies. They would roll the corpses in a grass mat before pulling them outside the city to bury them in a wasteland.¡±


    It was not easy for the people of this space-time to live. But at least the commoners of Tian Chu were able to die and be properly buried. In her previous life, one of her classmate¡¯s father had gotten into a hit-and-run. Her classmate¡¯s family had not received a single cent of compensation and had spent quite a bit just to handle affairs at the crematorium. Their family had lost their economic pillar and her classmate later was unable to pay tuition fees and without even graduating, went to the South for work.


    There was also her mother who had died so many years prior. Ruan Zhu momentarily felt sad. Because their family was poor, she had been unable to afford a burial plot so had tried to find a barren hill to bury her mother¡¯s ashes. But a few years later, that hill had been sold and she found a notice ordering her to move the ashes. As a result, her family moved the burial site to another hill but received another letter of notice merely one year after. A temple was going to be erected in that area so their graveyard had to quickly be relocated or else it would be flattened.


    Survival was a challenge. You could be alive but without a place to stay or dead but without an inch of space to bury your ashes¨Cunable to afford to live, unable to afford to die.


    Maybe it was better to have transmigrated, ah. At least there were no property right limits or no forced evictions. If one wanted to build a house, one could build as many houses as one wanted on their family property. No one would care how many you built and the houses could be used forever.


    Under Xiao Feng¡¯s urging, they passed several silk houses that were all famous shops. But as for their prices, Ruan Zhu was speechless. The cheapest fabric still cost five taels of silver. Here, one tael of silver was the equivalent of five hundred modern RMB. Five times five hundred, two thousand five hundred¨Cthat was 2500 RMB, the equivalent of a month¡¯s wages for a common worker. During the time she was in university, her living expenses for a month were only 900 RMB.


    Ruan Zhu was accustomed to being frugal. Although before she left, Yun Shi Yi had given her quite a few silver banknotes, she couldn¡¯t bear to spend them. Repeatedly asking the price of every item she saw, she ended up not buying anything and called for her male attendants to move away from the silk houses.


    The manager had thought a big fish had appeared and he could earn a healthy sum. But unexpectedly, it was a cheapskate and he was so angry he wanted to snap his beard in two.


    After Ruan Zhu and her group had left the store, they could still hear the manager cursing them: ¡°I wonder whose family this Miss is from to be wearing such bright and neat clothing. Yet I see she is just a poor ghost pretending to be from a wealthy household. She probably can¡¯t even afford a bowl of rice.¡±


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing felt incredibly embarrassed. They were servants born and raised in the residence so were used to their masters spending money freely. They did not understand what was going on with their Miss so Nuan Chun asked: ¡°If Miss feels uncomfortable spending Master¡¯s coin, did not Madam give Miss a large dowry when we departed from Miss¡¯s maternal home? The value of those items is sufficient to purchase several of these silk houses.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had been enraged by the manager¡¯s jeers and had offered silent criticism in her mind: Just a single tiny manager of a silk house and you want to act arrogantly around whom? When I get home, I¡¯ll have my hubby buy the shop with you included! But she had to maintain her elegant demeanor: ¡°I merely think that the silk offered inside is not of a sufficient quality. It has been bragged about very highly but the product is just average. A random scrap of this red muslin on my body is enough to buy any bolt offered in these silk houses.¡±


    Xiao Feng somewhat had some of his Master¡¯s style and loftily said: ¡°What Mistress said is correct. These common silks are not suitable for the people of our household to use. Using them to fool the eyes of the common people is just about suitable for its quality and standard.¡±


    Seeing someone speaking words that were nice to hear, Ruan Zhu smiled so widely her eyes became crescents.


    The group continued to chat as they walked and they passed a few more shops, including one that sold precious stones and other jewelry. This shop had a pleasant-sounding name of Ming Xiang Cui Yu[e] and was very famous within Lan Zhou. The Madams and Misses of all the aristocracy and other wealthy families were fond of placing their jewelry orders here.


    Xiao Feng eagerly led his Mistress into the store. He remembered this morning before they had left, his Master had specified for them to visit more jewelry stores. Whatever Mistress liked, just buy it. Even if she had no use for them, they could be put in storage. In short, as long as she was happy, then all was well.


    The store was worthy to be called Ming Xiang Cui Yu. The interior was filled with glittering jewels to delight the eye. All kinds of precious stones shone with their brilliance, so blinding that one could not open their eyes.


    But Ruan Zhu shook her head as soon as she saw these pieces. This time, it wasn¡¯t that she was being cheap but she just really didn¡¯t put jewelry in her eyes. Although she had never bought such precious things in her previous life, that didn¡¯t mean she had never seen any before. She had frequently bought imitations that cost only three to five RMB, and their handiwork was much more refined than these here in the shop.


    The ancient era was restricted by technology and scope. All ornaments were unadorned and simple but not delicate or refined. The patterns used were also pitifully lacking.


    The manager was a thin elderly man that had been in this position for many years and was accustomed to seeing various expressions appear on the face of their customers. With one glance at the expression of the lady currently standing before him, he became aware of what was on her mind and couldn¡¯t help but be baffled. ¡°Our Ming Xiang Cui Yu is famous in the country of Tian Chu and we even have a branch in the imperial capital. This old one does not mean to brag, but as long as it is a piece that our shop puts out on sale, there has never been a case of a client not be satisfied.¡±


    ¡°That is because you have never seen the best.¡± This time, Ruan Zhu did not plan on being looked down upon so her words were said rather impolitely. The other party looked to be a veteran in the business. If it was someone that was still in the prime of their youth, she would not say these kinds of words.


    The manager did not become angry and thought for a moment: ¡°We also accept custom orders here. If this Miss has a particular style in mind, you may draw it out to let the artisans forge the product. But the price would be more expensive.¡±


    Ruan Zhu hesitated before nodding her head. From her handbag, she took out a goose feather quill pen. Dipping it in the ink on the side, she drew on the paper that the manager fetched over. In her past life, she had spent several years of her childhood learning Chinese calligraphy but this hobby had been discarded after she entered high school as she was too busy. Now she had thoughts of picking up this hobby again, but it wasn¡¯t that simple so she might as well use a hard-tip pen.


    As for her handbag, this was something that belonged to the original owner of this body. If she hadn¡¯t crossed over, she wouldn¡¯t have known that handbags had long been prevalent in the ancient eras. On the internet, she had previously seen paintings of court ladies in the Tang dynasty sporting satchels and at that time had thought it was inconceivable.


    The men of this era paid careful attention to curry favor with the female sex. All of the handbag patterns and designs one could think of could be found in stores. The embroidered flowers were extraordinary beautiful and one could either use leather or cloth as the base material. If she wanted to make it rich, designing handbags was also a method as she could pirate the famous styles from her previous world.


    The manager was experienced and knowledgeable. Although he felt this female customer using a goose feather pen was unexpected, he was not surprised. Lan Zhou was flourishing and traveling merchants from overseas often visited so there was no shortage of people that used goose feather quills.


    Ruan Zhu only took ten minutes to sketch out a set of jewelry, comprising of hair ornaments, a pair of earrings, a necklace, a bracelet, and a ring. Her designs were keeping with the current trends while also introducing various new ideas. Taking into consideration the current era¡¯s forging skills, she kept her designs simple yet stylish. She had practiced sketching for two years when young so drawing these pieces did not require much effort.


    Passing over the completed sketch, the manager repeatedly exclaimed in admiration at seeing what was on the paper, proclaiming the style as very delicate and refined, a style that he had never seen though he had lived for so long to this old age.


    Ruan Zhu negotiated the price and handing over the down payment, agreed to pick up the items after ten days. As she was turning to leave the store, unexpectedly, a man dressed in white had just entered Ming Xiang Cui Yu. With white clothes contrasting nicely against his black hair, he was incomparably handsome.


    Who was this?


    It was precisely that narcissistic peacock man she had met in the backyard of Wanyue Teahouse several days ago when she had been stuck outside the city gates.


    [a] Äý¶Ïã Reference to Empresses in the Castle or The Legend of Zhen Huan, very famous 2011 Chinese TV series starring Sun Li. (Wikipedia) I couldn¡¯t find an English translation and didn¡¯t want to butcher it so left it as pinyin.


    [b] Pun. One way to say ¡®bragging¡¯ is ´µÅ£ which literally means ¡®blowing (a) cow¡¯. Meaning of the sentence is: no matter how much one brags, it¡¯s all insubstantial.


    [c] ÉÌ¿Æ A broad subject that combines elements of multiple business-related fields (Wikipedia)


    [d] There are currently two sets of written Chinese: traditional vs simplified. Traditional is what was historically used and still used in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau while simplified is used in China and officially in Malaysia and Singapore. The difference between the two is that simplified reduced the number of strokes needed for most characters. (Wikis for Traditional and Simplified; Comparison image)


    [e] ÜøÏãè­Óñ Ming Xiang Cui Yu, very rough literal translation is ¡®fragrant tea, jade luster¡¯

 Chapter 21 - Chastity Belt

    Ruan Zhu frowned as she tried to remember. Pointing at him, she said: ¡°Liu¡­¡­Liu Ruins¡­¡­¡± She was pretty sure that was his name.


    With a face full of black lines, the man in white was hard-pressed to say: ¡°Miss Qin, you have made a mistake. This one is Liu Fei Xu, not Liu Ruins. Just the other day, Miss had praised this one by saying the man was like the name, outstanding talents faintly discernible with a flying appearance. How could Miss have forgotten so quickly?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I apologize. This one¡¯s memory is not very good.¡± Ruan Zhu embarrassingly apologized. To be honest, it wasn¡¯t that her memory was bad. If she ran into matters that she took into her heart, she would remember. But as for him, she was too lazy and disinclined to spend time remembering his name.


    The manager promptly came over and bowed in greeting: ¡°Young Master, you¡¯ve arrived. As it turns out, Young Master is acquainted with this Miss. This little one¡¯s eyes have gone bad. May the two personages enter the adjacent room for a seat. This little one has received several taels of good Wuyi tea. Why not enjoy some tea while having a chat?¡±


    ¡°So Mister Liu was actually this shop¡¯s young owner. This one has failed to greet you.¡± Liu Fei Xu being Ming Xiang Cui Yu¡¯s young boss really went against her expectations of him. She had originally thought of him as a man that abandoned himself to a life of pleasure, one that relied on the road paved by his forefathers. To think that he was actually the same as her hubby¨Ca rich second generation, who would naturally have many assets yet he relied on his own two hands to create a business, earning professional success and becoming a young entrepreneur.


    Ruan Zhu was well-taught. Despite feeling disdainful in her heart, her outward appearance remained peaceful.


    ¡°That¡¯s right but this one does not deserve your greeting. My father, Master Meng, appointed me to take care of this shop. Meeting Miss Qin is too coincidental, did Miss come to see the wares?¡± Liu Fei Xu advanced a few steps, a smiling expression on his face. His pair of peach blossom eyes once again shone with an enticing light. They were filled with vigor, shining brightly, making the black of his pupil contrast nicely with the white of his eyes. Especially when he was feeling affectionate or passionate, his eyes appeared to flash like precious stones. No wonder women would take note of him and become attracted.


    Being a newlywed, Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart was full of deep affection for her hubby Yun Shi Yi.


    As for other men, they were not waves capable of startling a pond of water so it would be truly difficult for them to enter her heart. Thus, there¡¯s no need to talk about a flirtatious man that she looked down upon. Even if he was as outstanding as the Oscar¡¯s film emperor, what of it?


    Of course, if she could link arms with the Oscar¡¯s film emperor to window shop and have something to eat, it would be essential for her to do this to satisfy her vanity! Ruan Zhu thought this way, immeasurably self-satisfied.


    ¡°Wow!¡± From her ear came the sound of a woman¡¯s shriek. Turning her head, it turned out other female customers had exclaimed upon seeing Mister Peacock. As if they had found a rare curio, obsession was apparent in their eyes.


    Lu Fei Xu saw that these female¡¯s appearances could be regarded as pretty with their heads covered with pearl and jade ornaments. The distance between them was not too close yet a whiff of their cosmetics entered his nose. He wrinkled his brows but it was instantly concealed. With a shallow laugh: ¡°These Misses who have come to this lowly shop, please look around as you wish. If Misses see a product you like, no matter if it is custom-made or a ready-to-wear product, do not hesitate to call for Manager Yu.¡± Saying to here, he paused slightly before calling out in a loud voice: ¡°Assistant, come and greet these customers.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was astounded. Mister Peacock was not entirely worthless. Using a young master¡¯s identity to establish a presence in Ming Xiang Cui Yu, it wouldn¡¯t do to not have an ounce of ability to conduct business and trick people. Especially in the ancient period, when each clan had their own business techniques and all family members greedily waited in the background for a chance to have a share of the profits.


    A few love-stricken women proceeded to walk over with the intention of chatting while sticking next to him. With one meaningful glance from Liu Fei Xu toward the shop¡¯s assistant, the latter had several men that were carefully selected to work at Ming Xiang Cui Yu come out. Several pretty boys promptly moved forward to greet the customers with crisp and melodic voices.


    The customs of Tian Chu followed those of the Tang dynasty. The customary ¡®males and females should not touch hands when giving or receiving things¡¯ did not seem as strict as it was in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Upon seeing that the boys were very cute, the obsessive women followed them in choosing pieces they liked.


    Ruan Zhu watched them and subsequently increased her knowledge. If one has a beautiful face, one would be very popular no matter where one went. No wonder Koreans would rather eat salted vegetables every day and to save money to afford plastic surgery! Fortunately, her present appearance did not let down the people of this area.


    ¡°Miss Qin?¡± Liu Fei Xu blinked his peach blossom eyes and displayed his most dazzling smile: ¡°Which piece do you like? How about I give you half off?¡±


    ¡°I have already paid the deposit so there is no need to trouble you. I still have a few matters to do. Xiao Feng, didn¡¯t you say there were still a few shops that were quite good? Let¡¯s go for a stroll?¡± Ruan Zhu hurriedly changed the topic. If there was no Xiao Feng accompanying her, she would still have to chat with this Mister Peacock and stop his thoughts. That situation reaching Yun Shi Yi¡¯s ears would not be good. It didn¡¯t matter if this current world¡¯s trend was one woman with multiple husbands, or that a woman accepting more concubines would only be supported, not opposed, by the principal husband. They had only been married for a few days so for the wife to already have an affair would inevitably cause the husband to feel unwell. She felt it was beneath her to do this sort of thing.


    He has given her 100% of his love so she ought to repay him with 99% of her feelings. Her past life was empty so now that she has received love in this world, she would not let go of it. Valuable jewels were expensive, but finding a sincere man was priceless.


    ¡°Ai, Miss is leaving yet again?¡± Liu Fei Xu watched as the shadow of the delicate and charming lady left the entrance of Ming Xiang Cui Yu, feeling surprised and out of sorts. He had previously believed himself to be very popular with women. Why, ever since he came of age, the number of matchmakers that came to his residence to try to arrange his marriage was enough to break the entrance. How was it that when it came to her, it wasn¡¯t effective?


    ¡°Come here.¡± Gloomy, Liu Fei Xu beckoned Manager Yu over.


    ¡°Young Master, what is the issue?¡±


    ¡°Look at my face to see if it¡¯s dirty. Or is it that I didn¡¯t coordinate my outfit well today?¡± Liu Fei Xu brushed his hair, ¡°Is my hair messy?¡±


    Manager Yu carefully looked at his young master: ¡°Everything is exceptionally well. Young Master¡¯s face is clean, clothes are tidy, head is meticulously brushed with not one hair out of place. Young Master is a giant among men, a jade tree[a]. How many men in Lan Zhou could compare?¡±


    Being a subordinate meant one had to guess at their master¡¯s meaning and should flatter when the time called to do so. By praising their bosses til the latter was dizzy, money would also come their way. This was the reason why Manager Yu had remained at Ming Xiang Cui Yu for so long as he was exceptionally good at boot-licking and reading the situation.


    Liu Fei Xu did not believe him and took out a small copper mirror from his sleeve, turning it right and left. Feeling pleased with his current appearance, he put down the copper mirror and asked, puzzled: ¡°As a matter of fact, aren¡¯t I very good looking? How could she ignore me?¡±


    ¡°Whom?¡± Manager Yu remembered the Miss that had custom-ordered some pieces. Suddenly realizing what his young master meant, he did not know whether to laugh or cry. Young Master truly believed himself to be an exceptional man without compare and all of the women in this world ought to surround and revolve around him. If this matter was not related to him, Manager Yu would not say anything but even his own daughter could not look at any other man besides his Young Master. But in consideration of his livelihood, Manager Yu did not dare to express his thoughts as there was still a large household depending on him to support them.


    Ruan Zhu led her group of male attendants in exiting Ming Xiang Cui Yu and wanted to directly return home. Passing by a whole row of unremarkable shopfronts, she was stopped by a woman. The woman¡¯s appearance was rather comical¨Cclothing all wrinkled and the material was half new, half old. On her arm hung various chains or belts made out of metal or leather, resulting in all sorts of strange styles. They looked like iron chains, but also didn¡¯t. One could say it was a belt but it also wasn¡¯t exactly a belt. The woman¡¯s wares were something that she had actually never seen before.


    Ruan Zhu went to look closer at the things that hung from her arm, but even after staring for a while, was unable to make out what it was.


    The woman¡¯s eyes brightened as she curtsied. Laughing happily, she said: ¡°With one look, it¡¯s clear this Little Sister has been brought up strictly. If you¡¯re unwilling to tolerate your husbands being even the tiniest bit errant, how about buying one or two of these for your husbands to wear? I¡¯ll give you a little discount¨Cthe leather ones are fifty coppers. The metal ones are harder to manufacture but the craftsmanship is very good. Those are originally sold for two hundred coppers, but since Little Sister is buying them with sincerity, I¡¯ll only charge you one hundred and eighty coppers.¡±


    Ruan Zhu pointed at those belts and blankly asked: ¡°What is this?¡±


    The woman stumbled as her eyes widened. It couldn¡¯t be, there were even people that didn¡¯t know what a chastity belt was?


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing also thought it was strange, but they thought their Miss was cracking a joke. Just as they stayed silent, Xiao Feng overcame his shame to reply: ¡°Mistress, these are chastity belts, something that men use domestically.¡±


    So this was a chastity belt? Ruan Zhu stretched out a hand to pull on one a few times. This was for the men of this era to wear? The workmanship was actually very refined. The leather ones were all right, but the metal ones had delicate patterns carved on the top, such as a drawing of a hunt in a forest; a military expedition diagram; the most intriguing ones even had depictions of sex. The top of the belt was embellished with metal tassels that jingled with every movement.


    She remembered chastity belts were something that was popular in Europe from the twelfth century to the eighteenth century when the upper class compelled women to protect their chastity. However, they vanished without a trace in the wake of the liberation of women. But then in the nineteenth century, propaganda urging for a healthy body emerged and chastity belts for males gradually became popular to prevent men from having excessive sex.


    It was hard to imagine that the country of Tian Chu could make chastity belts this exquisite. She supposed this could also be regarded as a kind of cultural inheritance of knowledge.


    The woman was still introducing her merchandise as if she hadn¡¯t been interrupted: ¡°If Little Sister wants to buy a chastity belt, I would most recommend a metal one. The weather is so hot now, wearing a leather belt would be uncomfortable and it would also make it more likely for the man to sweat. Once they start sweating, that would bring about an unpleasant stink. Who would want a man by their side that stank of a strange odor, isn¡¯t that right?¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought about Yun Shi Wei and nodded her head. She had to have him be more particular about hygiene. That guy knew martial arts and his temper was like a wild horse¨Cit was necessary to tie him up in chains. When she locked up his root of all troubles, let¡¯s see how he would try to find her to reduce his fire in the future. Leather won¡¯t do as it was possible he might be able to break out if he tried hard enough. Metal wasn¡¯t a bad option.


    Thinking to here, she faced the woman with a faint smile: ¡°Price is not an issue. Are there any better ones?¡±


    The woman¡¯s eyes sparkled as face became full of joy. She immediately led Ruan Zhu and her three accompaniers into the store and had them sit in the reception area. She ordered a husband to serve tea while she herself used a key to open up a locked box. Cautiously and solemnly, she lifted out a series of delicately carved mahogany cases and one by one, opened their lids and began to brag: ¡°These are the treasures of this shop¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu understood. All proprietors that took out such expensive items would surely say such a line in opening.


    The woman pointed at the first box: ¡°This belt is made of silver. The engraving is a picture of Li Jing¡¯s night attack during the Battle of Yinshan.[b] This one is also silver, with a picture of the jade forest night feast given to the top scorer of the imperial examinations. This last one is gold with a depiction of Li Guang shooting arrows at night. On the side there is a poem to classify the event: ¡®A dim grove, windswept, its tall grass shook so; / ¡®Twas night, there the general aimed his bow / Came dawn, for its white feathers they looked; / Sunk deep in a stone cleft was found his arrow.¡¯¡± (Poem translation taken from Andrew W.F. Wong)[c]


    Ruan Zhu kept her eyes on the silver and gold belts with the military engravings. Yun Shi Wei enjoyed sword dancing, wielded a staff, and always bragged about how outstanding he is. Merely a military fool, how about buying both of these for him? But she should also give him the literary one since he ought to speak and be more civilized.


    The woman was still chattering about her merchandise: ¡°If Little Sister¡¯s husbands are scholars preparing for this fall¡¯s imperial civil service examination, Little Sister might as well give him this one depicting the top scorer passing the exam as a way to wish him good luck. Or if he is in the military, Little Sister can pick one between these two military engravings to give to him. They might be able to increase the grandeur of his militaristic aura.¡±


    After she had finished looking them over, Ruan Zhu sat down and took a tiny sip of tea. She had walked for almost the whole day and was extremely thirsty, but this era¡¯s tea was both bitter and the taste was not good. After drinking a mouthful, she put the cup back down and shook her head.


    She shook her head? The woman stared at her, feeling as though even after she spent half a day talking about her products, the customer never had the intention to buy them in the first place. She immediately pulled a long face but was met by the other party placing down her teacup and indifferently saying a sentence: ¡°I want all three of them.¡±


    The woman at once became dumbfounded, following which she ecstatically stood up: ¡°I¡¯ll give Little Sister a discount. This gold one will be calculated as one hundred taels while the two silver ones are twenty taels, so altogether, one hundred and twenty taels of silver.¡±


    ¡°Elder Sister truly thinks of me as an amateur. This gold chastity belt¡¯s materials are at most worth five taels of gold, which converted to silver is fifty taels of silver. The material of these two silver ones added up is ten taels. The purity of these cannot be proven, so including the manual labor fees, store rent, and other miscellaneous costs, the total of these three among the assortment in this room is seventy taels of silver. I¡¯ll give you a little more, so let¡¯s just do eighty taels, no room for negotiation. If you agree, this will be considered as the goods received and paid for. If you don¡¯t agree, well, I¡¯ll just go to another store.¡±


    In order for her to learn how to manage household duties as early as possible, Ruan Zhu had found books related to currency during these few days when she had nothing to do. Thus, she had grasped everything to do with topics concerning the money of the ancient era and this work was the reason why she was able to speak so smoothly.


    The author has something to say: Some people have said that chastity belts are very inhuman, so I wanted to give an explanation here. This so-called chastity belt is the same principle as how women in the ancient era bound their feet. It seemed very cruel, but females all thought they could be proud of having a pair of small feet.


    The smaller the feet, the better the marriage prospects. The chastity belts follow the same principle. Formerly, European women would give their daughters a chastity belt because of the high standards in society. These female children would also compare among them for who had the most beautiful chastity belt.


    The rise of male chastity belts was to maintain their sexual reproductive health while guarding against excessive sexual acts.


    In 2001, the United Kingdom and Germany introduced chastity belts from their own country on a program.


    Currently if you search up ¡°chastity belt¡± on Yahoo, I¡¯ve been told there are over 128,000 websites that show up!


    On the single largest English website on chastity belts, the site had 10.21 million hits on February 19, 2015.


    The largest English webpage dedicated to discussing chastity belts was from 1998 to August 2004 with over 780 topics of discussion and 4760 people joining the conversation. The topics included specific chastity belt technological help, discussions on opinions regarding chastity belts, studies of chastity belts, literature on chastity belts, as well as information on where one could find and/or provide chastity belts. The writing style mostly had a gentleman¡¯s elegance.


    From 2003-2004, a British website conducted a survey that asked under what circumstances would one use a chastity belt. More than 700 people responded from 31 countries and regions of the world (There were no responses from China, but there were some from Hong Kong). The three locations with the most responses were the USA, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Nowadays, the function of the chastity belt that the Westerners believe in is poles apart from how us Chinese think.


    According to a Russian report in 2005, there were 30,000 males in Europe that wore chastity belts. These devout males had been willing to wear these belts since young to prove themselves loyal and dedicated. Unexpectedly, there were actually some that would 100% want to wear chastity belts. And, 18 years ago, a magazine reported that 35,000 chastity belts had been sold worldwide that year.


    [a] ÓñÊ÷ÁÙ·ç, idiom meaning comfortable and at ease while elegant in all movements (I think)


    [b] Li Jing was a military officer in the Tang dynasty. Battle of Yinshan is where he defeated the Eastern Turkic Khaganates (Wikipedia)


    [c] Li Guang was a famous general of the Western Han dynasty who was renowned for his archery skills. There is a famous story of him mistaking a white stone for a tiger (who were active in the area he was in at the time) and not realizing his mistake until the next morning. (Wikipedia) (Poem translation)

 Chapter 22 - Returning to the Residence

    The reason why she was able to clearly understand and define the values of gold and silver was due to both of them having market value. If they were exchanged with porcelain or jade, then it would become difficult to bargain. Porcelain was divided into two types¨CGuan ware[a] and private commercial ware or commoner ware. These two were not the same product thus the price was also not the same. As for jade, that was even more complicated. It was not something she, a female proletariat that had crossed over, would know about.


    The woman became gloomy. Spreading her hands, she persuaded: ¡°Then Little Sister also has to let me profit some. It¡¯s not easy to earn capital. Look, I¡¯m just a poor woman with a large household to provide for. That small amount of silver is not enough for my family to eat a few meals with.¡±


    Ruan Zhu faintly smiled: ¡°Older Sister really knows how to tell a joke. My country of Tian Chu is populous and affluent and Lan Zhou is also famous for being the land of fish and rice[b]. While it is not likely that many of the common people are well-off, if one saves well, ten taels of silver is sufficient to pay the expenses of an ordinary family with ten mouths for one whole year. Not to mention, this one terribly admires Older Sister. With one wag of your tongue, Older Sister is able to earn a year¡¯s worth of living expenses. This Little Sister is still worried about surviving in the future!¡±


    Relying on a man to live was not dignified. Wanting to start a business that hasn¡¯t even taken shape yet, one must properly take care of all the checkpoints necessary to start that business. When eating, use some food as an offering to the god of wealth. If one doesn¡¯t pray at the temple properly, unnecessary trouble may come knocking. Being a transmigrator was also not easy, ah!


    The woman wailed as she covered her face: ¡°Little Sister, you¡¯ve also seen it. My little shop doesn¡¯t resemble anything. I was planning on using the hard-earned capital from these three chastity belts to improve my storefront. In any case, Little Sister has to leave a way open for me, ah.¡±


    Ruan Zhu deadpanned: ¡°How you want to change the store¡¯s design seems to have nothing to do with me, correct? If I am to buy something, the price must be reasonable and fair. No cheating, no stealing. We are conducting a monetary transaction. If you agree, I¡¯ll buy it. If you don¡¯t, we can forget about this.¡±


    Saying how pitiful you were was useless. I¡¯m not here to be charitable. If you really were starving on the side of the road, then I might be hospitable and help you a bit. But it was extremely obvious that your current situation was much more well-off than how I was in the previous world. Let¡¯s not talk about a gold chastity belt. The previous me would not even have had the chance to see a stainless steel one.


    The woman placed her hand on the table and knocked on it, repeatedly howling in grief: ¡°Little Sister, just add five more taels for a total of eighty-five taels of silver. No matter what you do, I won¡¯t sell any lower.¡±


    She still wanted to bargain! Ruan Zhu couldn¡¯t help but to smile.


    No matter how good a product was, one still had to look at where it was being sold. If these belts were being sold at Ming Xiang Cui Yu, then they would have a different price tag. A modern product sold in a third-rate store was bound to have third-rate prices¨Cit was the same concept.


    This woman described herself as pathetic but Ruan Zhu knew this was simply a trick merchants liked to use. She laughed: ¡°At most, I¡¯ll add two taels of silver. Don¡¯t underestimate these two taels! They¡¯re enough to buy a few hundred catties of rice, more than enough to last a small family for a long time~¡±


    Ruan Zhu took out a silver banknote worth one hundred taels and placed it on top of the table while she gazed at the other party. The meaning was: the price was exactly what we had discussed so do as you saw fit and stop trying to waste time.


    The woman foolishly stared at the banknote, her eyes filled with envy and desire. A little while later, she finally wiped away the drool spilling from her mouth and mumbled: ¡°I¡­¡­I can¡¯t break this.¡±


    No way, wasn¡¯t she in the business of selling gold and silver? She didn¡¯t even have change? Ruan Zhu said to Xiao Feng: ¡°You¡¯re familiar with Lan Zhou. Go find somewhere we can exchange this banknote.¡±


    Doing business but being poor to this extent, this was truly what was called ¡®useless¡¯. There were no problems with their merchandise so the problem must lie within how they operate. Xiao Feng disdainfully curled his lip and left with the banknote.


    The following period where they waited for Xiao Feng to return was mindlessly boring and idle so they began speaking of their daily family lives. The woman was clearly one that loved to chit-chat and asked Ruan Zhu for her familial name, conveniently introducing herself: ¡°Little Sister Ruan, I¡¯m called Yu Lian Hua. Sister, don¡¯t think of me as a poor one. Actually, my father is Manager Yu of Ming Xiang Cui Yu, who is in charge of selling their precious jeweled ornaments as well as managing their custom orders. In the future if Little Sister wants to buy jewelry, just come find me. With your connection to me, I can give you a 5% discount.¡±


    Ruan Zhu nodded her head. In any case, having a little discount to make things cheaper was always a good thing. But the two servants by her side became disdainful, and opening his mouth, Nuan Qing snorted before saying: ¡°My family¡¯s Miss is not so low as to be unable to even afford that remaining 5%. It¡¯s not as if we¡¯re poor to this extreme.¡±


    The woman called Yu Lian Hua looked at the clothes Ruan Zhu was wearing as well as what was on her head. She then lowered her gaze to glance at her own old and wrinkled attire. This was even her best set that she was only willing to wear when she had to appear in front of others. If she was at home, she would most definitely not wear this. Yu Lian Hua was crestfallen and too embarrassed to continue speaking. Every person lived their own life. Who told her to wed a poor man and for even her secondary husbands to be without future prospects? On the contrary, her maternal family had some wealth, but it wasn¡¯t enough for her large group of brothers to find themselves a wife.


    ¡°Impudent! You still haven¡¯t given Elder Sister Yu your sincerest apology?¡± Ruan Zhu reprimanded Nuan Qing with one sentence.


    ¡°My deepest apologies to Lady Yu. This one has misspoke.¡± Nuan Qing faced Yu Lian Hua and slightly bowed with a cupped fist. With a tiny tilt of his head, he saw the corner of his Master¡¯s mouth was quirked up in a smile as if she wasn¡¯t angry at all, causing him to become pleased with himself in his heart.


    ¡°Ha ha, it¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine.¡± Yu Lian Hua forcibly laughed twice.


    Ruan Zhu did not believe Nuan Qing¡¯s ridicule was false. At the very least, it gave her, his Master, face. She tried to lighten the mood: ¡°So it turns out Manager Yu of Ming Xiang Cui Yu was Older Sister¡¯s father. That¡¯s too much of a coincidence as I had just custom-ordered a set of jewelry. I didn¡¯t know about Older Sister¡¯s connections. If I had known, I would have come here first to buy the chastity belts before going to Ming Xiang Cui Yu to place my order. Maybe I could have even saved some change.¡±


    Thinking of how Mister Peacock was willing to give her 50% off, she inwardly shook her head. Even if that guy was willing to give her the pieces free of charge, his offer was not necessarily one out of kindness, thus it was not one she dared to accept.


    Yu Lian Hua was in high spirits again and patting her chest, said: ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Little Sister Ruan. You can just leave this matter to me. In the future when you want to purchase jewelry, how about you just look for me? I can guarantee it will be cheaper.¡±


    As she was saying that, Xiao Feng returned with the exchanged banknote. Ruan Zhu took out eighty-two taels and handed them over to Yu Lian Hua. Instructing her servants to tightly hold onto the cases containing the chastity belts, they left the shop.


    In high spirits, Yu Lian Hua waited until her customers had walked far away before lifting up the shiny silver coins and fiercely kissing them.


    Her small shop was both dirty and small so wealthy personages disdained to even enter.


    They relied on the copper coins earned from selling ordinary trash goods to the common people but this solution wasn¡¯t enough and she still worried about whether there would be food to eat. Not long ago, she had spent their hard-earned capital on manufacturing a few chastity belts solely to improve their situation. Luckily, her principal husband was knowledgeable about handicrafts so for every expenditure, they were able to reduce costs and even unexpectedly made around seventeen to eighteen taels. But that amount was not enough to fix their storefront, so it had seemed as if she needed to borrow money from her maternal home. It was still the wealthy that let others be really envious, ah. In the future if there was an opportunity, she had to somehow worm her way into being friends with that female customer. It would be best if she could still gain some small advantages from this connection.


    Yu Lian Hua safely put away the silver and raised her head to see some of her husbands clearing away the tea and cups. Her cheerful expression immediately turned into a scowl and she opened her mouth to abuse them roundly: ¡°A whole group of useless trash that don¡¯t even know how do to business. It¡¯s been a few days yet none of you have managed to bring a meal¡¯s worth of coin for this lady. If it wasn¡¯t for this old lady being so good at persuasion to capture such a large transaction, all of you would have been sacked and made to scram!¡±


    All of the secondary husbands kneeled on the ground in silence as they endured their wife¡¯s raging. Only the principal husband faintly smiled as he carried the leftover tea and cups into the kitchen, not paying attention to his wife¡¯s anger.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Thus, by the time Ruan Zhu and her followers returned home, it was already past noon. After walking for over half the day, her legs were limp and painful so she did not even object when Nuan Qing came over with steaming water for her to soak her feet in. Her two husbands had yet to return. If they had, this would have been their job. She had become accustomed to being served so very naturally accepted Nuan Qing¡¯s offer of a massage.


    Nuan Qing had served his Master for many years now and was especially skilled in foot massages. As Ruan Zhu experienced his dual-hand method of massaging, her entire body loosened and her exhaustion vanished. She reclined on the chaise lounge and failed to notice that as Nuan Qing was massaging her pair of small and white feet, a very satisfied expression had emerged on her face. His fingers attentively kneaded all the acupuncture points in her feet. The strength was perfect, causing the blood vessels in her feet to circulate throughout her entire body.


    Nuan Chun carried a basin of ice cubes inside. Seeing Nuan Qing¡¯s current position, a trace of envy appeared in his eyes. The ice cubes were meant to relieve the summer heat so he placed them on the table next to Ruan Zhu. He started tidying up the clothes she had changed out of, planning to leave to wash them.


    But just at this moment, a sound came from the door. Yun Shi Wei had entered the living room and leapt through the moon gate leading to the bedroom just to see Nuan Qing holding his wife¡¯s pure white small feet, continuously massaging. Eyes blazing with anger, he shouted: ¡°Dog slaves, this is what you both ought to do to live¨Cscram outside for this father!¡±


    Nuan Qing had been in a trance and immediately became frightened, his face losing color. Carrying the water basin, he hurriedly followed behind Nuan Chun in leaving the room.


    ¡°What¡¯s with you? For you to return like this, how many catties of gunpowder did you inhale while you were out for half a day?¡± Ruan Zhu had been seen ¡®committing adultery¡¯ by Yun Shi Wei and felt rather embarrassed. If this was her previous world, this would have been cause for divorce. ¡°Isn¡¯t it just washing feet? That¡¯s also worth raising such a temper for?¡±


    ¡°Then you should wait for me to return to personally wash them for you. How would it be regarded as if others did it?¡± Yun Shi Wei wanted to quibble as he had been rebuked as if he was in the wrong.


    ¡°They¡¯ve washed me for quite a lot of years now and previously have always served me in bathing. How come I never saw your shadow, hmm?¡± Ruan Zhu faintly responded to him and returned to reclining on the chaise lounge. But she had actually been frightened by the words she just spoke. The leftover memories in her brain confirmed it was true that Nuan Qing and Nuan Chun had served the original owner for multiple years now. The relationship between the master and her servants had depth, so saying there were no feelings between them was false. Fortunately, they have been wearing a chastity belt for all of these years. Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t something have occurred between master and servant?


    Ah, the chastity belt truly was an invention worthy of the greatest admiration.


    On the topic of chastity belts, Ruan Zhu¡¯s curiosity was ignited and she moved to get up from the lounge chair. But at that moment, Yun Shi Wei stretched out his two wolf claws towards her tiny white feet, each hand grasping onto a foot and kneading. Lifting a small foot near his mouth, he opened his mouth and sucked on two of her toes. His lips moving, the sound of lips smacking could be heard almost as if he was sampling something.


    Ruan Zhu playfully threw a glance at him: ¡°Second Cousin, you¡¯ve become foolish. How could you eat my toes?¡±


    Her toes were continuously being sucked into his mouth and from her insides came a trace of a shiver that was like an electric current moving from her leg up to the rest of her body. From her underbelly, a nice and warm flame invaded her intellect and reason¡­¡­


    It turns out having even her toes kissed and sucked was enough to captivate her.


    ¡°Spouse, your toes are very delicious.¡± Yun Shi Wei responded huskily.


    Ever since the day he had bruised her during intercourse, his eldest brother had banned him from touching her for half a month. He had just had a taste of love after so long, so how could he endure it? These few days when she was absent at night had truly been difficult to get through. Every night, he would flop around in bed, unable to sleep, before finally running outside to soak in cold water.


    Ruan Zhu looked towards the space between his hips. There was already a small tent pitched and at the top of the tent, there was a wet patch about the size of a fingernail. This guy was way too enthusiastic, right?


    He continued to plant kisses near her ankle and moved upwards. Pushing up the hem of her trousers, the sight of her bare, delicate white calf appeared. His pupils darkened and he extended his tongue to lick at her leg, opening his mouth to take hold of a lump of her white flesh.


    He was acting like this again?


    After this, her skin would once more be bruised. Was he not worried of being punished by his eldest brother?


    [a] ¹ÙÒ¤ (Guan ware), one of the Five Famous Kilns of Song dynasty China, famous for their trademark random cracked lines as decoration (Wikipedia)


    [b] ÓãÃ×Ö®Ïç, idiom meaning fertile region

 Chapter 23 - Teasing

    ¡°Be more gentle, it really hurts.¡± She gritted her teeth. This guy never knew how to be considerate. Everything he did had a bit of a violent flair. Could he have transmigrated from the Jurassic age?


    Yun Shi Wei halted his kisses and crawled onto the chaise lounge, neatly undressing himself in the process. He pulled her into his lap so that her soft body was in his arms. His eyes were covered with a layer of haze as he gasped for breath: ¡°Spouse, I know you also like doing stuff like this. After I make you comfortable in a little while, you¡¯ll definitely enjoy this.¡±


    Remembering his frantic movements on that day, a sense of dread overcame her. Bracing her hands against him: ¡°Let¡¯s wait until Eldest Brother returns tonight to talk about this. I haven¡¯t prepared yet so let¡¯s not do it now. Don¡¯t hold me so tightly¨Cah, my waist is going to break!¡±


    Was he kneading dough or hugging a person?! Ruan Zhu was in so much pain she wanted to thrash around but couldn¡¯t. His two arms were like a vice, holding onto her waist so tightly she felt as if her lower back would snap.


    Yun Shi Wei appeared to have not heard her and continued trying to push aside the clothes on her body. Finding it troublesome to undo her belt, he simply teared at the fabric so in the end, the precious Jiangnan cloud brocade was reduced to rags in his hand.


    ¡°Beast!¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s temper flared. She fiercely kicked him with her legs and scratched at his face with her fingernails¡­¡­Yun Shi Wei lifted a sturdy thigh to restrain her naughty legs and bound her wrists above her head with the strips from her trousers that he had just ripped.


    Having had her wrists tied by him, Ruan Zhu was so furious her face became white. Opening her mouth wide, she ruthlessly bit him on his right shoulder. The flesh that was in her mouth was very tough and had a sort of open country taste. But after she let go, what entered her sight were two rows of shallow teeth marks that simply were not threatening at all.


    ¡°So comfortable, I also want a kiss¡­¡­¡± Yun Shi Wei demanded for more with a low voice as he gasped for breath, his eyes turning red with desire.


    Barbarian! Beast! Ruan Zhu repositioned herself and in one move, took hold of his lips and bit down hard with her teeth. Salty blood flowed into her mouth.


    ¡°Spouse, that¡¯s not how you kiss.¡± Yun Shi Wei cried out as he struggled to throw her off, painfully sucking in a breath of air. But just as he turned his head, the female¡¯s tender and white skin came into view. A slender figure with a body of jade, splayed against him¨Cthis was actually a sight to behold.


    He rested his hands on top of her chest, her two perky breasts fitting in his hands. His entire body trembled. Unable to bear it any longer, he rubbed that stiff rod at his crotch against her soft buttocks. Seeing her continue to struggle against him, he quickly said: ¡°Rest assured, this time I¡¯ll definitely be gentler and won¡¯t hurt you. It¡¯s already been so long since we¡¯ve been together, this really isn¡¯t something a human could endure. My body¡¯s already on fire.¡±


    ¡°Then untie my hands. What exactly is the meaning of tying me up?¡± Was this regarded as rape? Didn¡¯t they all say that the secondary husbands of Tian Chu were the same as the obedient historical concubines? She failed to see which part of him could be regarded as ¡®obedience¡¯.


    Ruan Zhu was unbearably livid but she knew that she could not use strength against this barbarian. She wasn¡¯t his opponent in that aspect and the one to suffer a loss would be her.


    Fine then, I¡¯ll just attack with a softer method. More than anything, handling men required the use of tears as an offense.


    Gathering her thoughts, she fully immersed herself in her grievances. Her large eyes rapidly filled with teardrops and she let herself cry out loud wu wu.


    ¡°All right, Zhu Zhu, don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry. Second Cousin will just untie you now.¡± Yun Shi Wei immediately panicked and and roughly brushed away her tears.


    Ruan Zhu thought about how he had bound her and momentarily sobbed for real. Tears streamed from her eyes and down her cheeks, dripping onto her ample chest before sliding downwards.


    Yun Shi Wei fumbled with the knot. When he finally untied her, there were actually red scars on her delicate wrists that were especially eye-catching against her snowy skin.


    He felt even more panicked upon seeing those harsh red lines. If Eldest Brother were to know of this matter, he would be punished. Yun Shi Wei didn¡¯t care if he was scolded or beaten, but he was most afraid of Yun Shi Yi forbidding him from being close to their wife. Not knowing what was best to do, he brought her two wrists close to his mouth, gently blowing on them.


    This was good. It proved this person still had a brain.


    Ruan Zhu felt a little appeased but wasn¡¯t willing to forgive him. Noticing the basin of ice on the table that Nuan Chun had just delivered to help with the heat, she saw that there were a few ice cubes that had not yet completely melted. An evil plan forming, she reached out and selected two large ice cubes, placing them at the tip of his protruding tent at his crotch, very fiercely warning: ¡°If you dare try to avoid this, I¡¯ll tell Eldest Cousin what happened today and have you unable to touch me for a month.¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Yun Shi Wei yelped loudly. He was originally going to dodge aside, but hearing her threat, could only obediently endure it. The ice cubes were pressing down on his family jewels and ice-cold sweat formed on his forehead. His entire body shivering, his voice trembled as well: ¡°Zhu Zhu, don¡¯t do this. It¡¯ll be damaged.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, if it¡¯s damaged, Little Sister will send you to the imperial palace to be an eunuch. With your martial arts constitution, you might even be able to become a Head Eunuch.¡± Ruan Zhu gently comforted him, her voice as warm as a breeze. Yet both of her hands grasped onto an ice cube, sandwiching that troublesome member. After several seconds, she saw it become soft and droop downwards.


    Seeing her plan was effective, she threw away the ice cubes and promptly stuck her ice-cold little hands on his chest to warm them.¡±I¡¯m done for. It¡¯s useless now.¡± Yun Shi Wei pulled on his little brother a few times but there was no response. He sullenly said: ¡°Zhu Zhu, you¡¯ve broken it. This time, will Second Cousin really have to enter the palace to be an eunuch?¡±


    Ruan Zhu giggled out loud. It was only the theory of thermal expansion[a] so it was easy for it to ¡®break¡¯. This second cousin of hers sometimes was really stupid. But seeing him so deflated, she felt invigorated and the disgust stifling her mind eased by quite a bit.


    Okay then, let¡¯s just give him peace of mind!


    Ruan Zhu used one of her little hands to grasp onto his member, gently stroking it back and forth. Under her careful ministrations, his little brother very quickly lifted up his head again¡­¡­Yun Shi Wei¡¯s body leaned towards her: ¡°Zhu Zhu, fast¡­¡­just a little faster¡­¡­use both hands.¡±


    Ruan Zhu disdainfully snorted humph! and reached out to grab another ice cube to put on top of him.


    The ice-cold sensation was pasted to his heat source. Yun Shi Wei wailed: ¡°This back-and-forth torture really might turn me into a palace eunuch!¡±


    Ruan Zhu tossed the ice away and got up to drape a robe over her back. She retrieved three red mahogany cases from under the bed and carefully set them down on the table. Randomly opening one of them, she lifted up the silver chastity belt inside and very tenderly asked Yun Shi Wei: ¡°Second Cousin, this is the gift that Little Sister has bought for you. Give it a try to see if it fits?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi strode over for a look and was puzzled: ¡°What did you buy this for? I have no need for it. Father said that after a man marries, he no longer needs to wear one.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve worn it in the past?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you see it in the bridal room that day? You personally opened my lock and did the same for Eldest Brother. How did you forget all of that?¡± Yun Shi Wei was astounded and scratched his head: ¡°You were too nervous that day so having a bad memory is also possible.¡± He remembered after Eldest Brother had slept with her that day, she had even fainted.


    Ruan Zhu bit her lip, feeling jealous of the original soul for the first time. Handing over the chastity belt in her hand to him, she half-coaxed, half-warned him: ¡°This is my first time buying you a gift so you must try it on for me to see. Otherwise I¡¯ll just tell Eldest Cousin about how you bullied me today.¡±


    ¡°Again with the same threat.¡± Yun Shi Wei mumbled a sentence to himself before taking the belt and strapping himself into it.


    His member had just gone through another round of ice ¡®therapy¡¯ so it had deflated into a soft enough state where it was securely sheathed into the chastity belt. The size was very fitting and the fastenings were tight and secure, precisely so that even if he wanted it to get up, it couldn¡¯t.


    Ruan Zhu picked up the lock. Looping it through the belt, she locked it with a crisp kacha.


    The sight was really beautiful. The top was engraved with a picture of Li Jing¡¯s night assault during the Battle of Yinshan and around the belt, an adorned silver tassel made ding-a-ling sounds with his every movement. The entire ensemble was incredibly dashing and tempting.


    Like Yun Shi Yi, Yun Shi Wei was around an imposing 180 centimeters tall. With skin like ancient copper, both of their visible solid six-packs along with the rest of their tight physiques stole the attention away from other males, just like how a mountain stood out from its surroundings.


    ¡°Second Cousin, you¡¯re so handsome! Can you please go down and walk a few steps for Little Sister?¡±


    Seeing him hesitate, Ruan Zhu stared at him with wide and hopeful eyes. Yun Shi Wei discretely slid off the chaise lounge and earnestly took it upon himself to be a fashion model, displaying a chastity belt performance that she had never seen before in her previous life.


    Yun Shi Wei was hard-pressed under his wife¡¯s eyes and had no way out. He could only continue strolling around under her gaze.


    All of a sudden, there was a noise at the door¨CYun Shi Yi had returned.


    The tall and handsome figure entered the bedroom. Seeing his own brother¡¯s comical appearance, the corners of his mouth lifted. He walked a few steps forward to embrace Ruan Zhu and lowered his head to give her a kiss: ¡°Wife, did this husband miss a good show?¡±


    The author has something to say: There was a delay today so I¡¯ll work hard to make up for it tomorrow.


    [a] aka most things tend to expand/swell when hot and shrink when cold (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 24 - Threesome

    There was an air around Yun Shi Yi that always made one feel at peace. She leaned against his chest, feeling tranquil in both body and mind, while the corner of her mouth rippled with a faint smile: ¡°Second Cousin is performing a striptease for me. He said doing this is beneficial to the mind and body so starting from today, he¡¯ll perform this once a day. Say, isn¡¯t this just like Second Cousin to do?¡±


    Ruan Zhu turned back to glance at the naked beauty, ridicule apparent in her eyes. The man being mocked by her scratched his head and awkwardly laughed: ¡°As long as Zhu Zhu likes it.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi saw the ripped trouser shreds on top of the chaise lounge and as his pupils shifted, the distinct red lines on the wrist of the woman in his embrace came into his view. His inky black eyes immediately overflowed with anger: ¡°What is going on here? Why are there wounds on our wife¡¯s wrists? While I wasn¡¯t here, what exactly happened?¡±


    Ruan Zhu remained silent and looked at the troublemaker with schadenfreude.


    Being stared at, Yun Shi Wei felt guilty and forced out a laugh: ¡°Spouse and I were joking around. Look, my lips have all been bitten by her ¡¯til they bled by her. I even have to perform a lively show for her wearing only a chastity belt. It¡¯s obvious that the one that suffered a loss is me, your little brother. If Eldest Brother doesn¡¯t believe me, you can ask our spouse.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi turned his gaze towards the female in his arms. Ruan Zhu lightly smiled: ¡°I bought the chastity belt for Second Brother to wear. He¡¯s very obedient.¡± Seeing as he had been honest, she wouldn¡¯t expose him.


    ¡°Chastity belt?¡± His head turned towards the red mahogany cases on top of the table where two chastity belts, one silver and one gold, still remained. Picking up the golden one, he roughly judged it in accordance with its weight: ¡°The craftsmanship isn¡¯t bad.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Cousin likes it?¡± Ruan Zhu was a little surprised. According to this society¡¯s thinking, this sort of degrading thing ought to be as unfathomable as a woman¡¯s bound feet. But the way her ancient hubby was acting was rather natural.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter if I like it nor not. It¡¯s something that I¡¯ve had to constantly wear since I was twelve, with the exception of the occasional removal. Other than feeling relaxed when taking it off, there are also other emotions that I can¡¯t explain very well.¡± Yun Shi Yi insipidly said all of this but tenderly looked at his wife: ¡°If Wife wants to see, this husband can don it one time for you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes sparkled with stars as she eagerly and continuously nodded. Her hubby¡¯s physique was so perfect and he was also shining with charisma. He could be compared to Keanu Reaves in ¡¶The Matrix¡·. Using a phrase from her previous world, he was truly ¡®too handsome to the extreme¡¯!


    Yun Shi Yi undressed, revealing his masculine figure and ¡õ. He lifted the gold chastity belt from the red mahogany case and strapped it on with confident and relaxed movements. His right hand pressed on the lock on the side of the belt and with a kacha, locked it securely.


    The shape of the chastity belt was the same as a thong worn by the women of her previous world. Underneath the crotch was a net-like sheath that slipped over a man¡¯s shaft, making an erection impossible. Ruan Zhu rested her hand on top of it, her pinky just barely able to fit inside the hole at the front. Under her exploratory touches, the soft flesh inside the sheath slightly twitched, and in a split second, actually changed, pushing against the top of the sheath as if it wanted to burst out.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s breathing was slightly unsteady: ¡°Wife, get the key.¡±


    Ruan Zhu found the key from inside the red mahogany case. Kneeling on the rug in front of him, she inserted the key into the lock. Pa, the lock was opened and she slid it off the belt. The chastity belt immediately slid off the stiff thing in the middle of his legs.


    She was still kneeling in front of him. Having lose the sheath that had restrained it, his little brother promptly grew in size and proudly stood upright not long after.


    His thing was right in front of her eyes, so close that it almost touched her nose. She stared straight at it and her mouth suddenly felt dry. Opening her lips, she went closer¡­¡­


    ¡°Ah!¡± Yun Shi Yi moaned at the scorching sensation. Ecstasy nibbled at his bones as pleasure attacked his entire body. ¡°Oh¡­¡­Wife¡­¡­My wife¡­¡­¡± His eyes swirled with with deep desire as he arched his lower back. Grasping onto the beautiful cloud-like hair of the head below him, he thrust his body forward in a series of tightly controlled movements.


    Ruan Zhu was also holding onto his rugged buttocks, pandering to his movements and giving him the most wonderful of sensations. Suddenly, a pair of large hands ripped off the cloak she had draped over herself and held onto the soft mounds at her chest. It was Yun Shi Wei and his impatient voice transmitted into her ear: ¡°Spouse, there¡¯s also me, don¡¯t forget about me¡­¡­¡±


    One of his hands tormented a soft breast while the other one slid downwards until they reached the desired target at the bottom, his seeking fingers sliding in¡­¡­


    An indescribable feeling spread and circled through her entire body in a continuous loop. And his fingers penetrated even deeper, rubbing and teasing¡­¡­She writhed her body under his torment.


    ¡°Spouse, you¡¯re so beautiful.¡± Yun Shi Wei tightly hugged her, his left hand on top, his right hand on bottom, both of them continuously wreaking havoc on her sensitive areas, fanning the strong flame inside her belly.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s enticing naked body was sandwiched between the two men, one in front of her, and one behind her. She was unable to move a single step but she also didn¡¯t want to. If only it was possible to completely sink into depravity even until the end of time¡­¡­ she wanted to maintain this position forever, never having to get up.


    ¡°Wu wu¡­¡­¡± She finally broke out in a series of indistinct moans, her body convulsing as if she was undergoing a seizure. Sparkling and translucent perspiration flowed down her forehead and moistened the hair at her temples.


    At the same time, Yun Shi Yi also furiously thrust a few times before releasing his body¡¯s scorching liquid passion, gasping for breath as he held onto her head.


    ¡°Spouse, there¡¯s still me¡­¡­¡± Yun Shi Wei¡¯s entire body was scalding and the heat source between his legs tingled and felt itchy. It was continuously swelling and the silver sheath netting had become contorted. Exerting some strength to tear at the belt, a kacha sounded out and the deformed chastity belt suddenly separated from his body.


    Ruan Zhu collapsed on her stomach on top of the rug and continued twitching as if she was floating among the clouds. Suddenly, Yun Shi Wei held her from the back, frightening her as she felt a humongous rod entering her. ¡°Second Cousin!¡± She screamed, instinctively clamping down.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡­Spouse, just like this, so comfortable.¡± Yun Shi Wei speedily rammed into the woman he was infatuated with, as if he was possessed.


    ¡°Slow¡­¡­slow down¡­¡­.Second Cousin¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu painfully cried out as she sprawled on the ground. Her young and immature body was unable to withstand his forceful thrusts.


    ¡°Wife, this time this husband will help you.¡± Yun Shi Yi laid down on his back in front of her. Opening his mouth to suck on a trembling red plum, he used his teeth to gently nibble, teasing her. His thick hands roamed about, caressing her body, one hand cupping a full breast, the other roaming downwards, and finding the spot that made her go crazy, gently flicking it.


    ¡°Nn, ah¡­¡­¡± Under the devastation of the two brothers, Ruan Zhu went crazy and a dazzling fire rapidly flared out.


    Yun Shi Wei firmly held onto the female¡¯s fragrant and soft body, continuously escalating the speed of his movements. In his brain, lights slowly gathered until abruptly a flame as bright as silver burst forth, and with a large roar, he sent his scalding liquid into her body.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s sweat drenched her soft body as she collapsed onto Yun Shi Yi underneath her so that she was entirely in his embrace. His fiery passionate eyes gazed at her: ¡°Wife, can you do it again?¡±


    She could feel his solid member pushing against her belly so she weakly nodded her head.


    Picking her up, he flipped their positions so that she was underneath him: ¡°I¡¯ll be gentle. Be at ease.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi really was quite gentle and only at the final spurt did he increase his movements and strength. But she had came too many times through all of this and finally fainted when her body was physically unable to endure.


    It was too late for him to regret. Wiping both sides of her body clean, he carried her to the bed and laid down next to her.


    Yun Shi Wei sighed in despair: ¡°Only this much yet she fainted. I still wanted more.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi glared at him: ¡°Get lost.¡±


    ¡°No way. These few days, I¡¯ve had to sleep alone. It¡¯s really boring and difficult. Zhu Zhu is also my spouse, so I also have a share.¡± Yun Shi Wei got on the bed and laid down on Ruan Zhu¡¯s other side, covering all three of them with a blanket.


    Yun Shi Yi snorted: ¡°If you weren¡¯t my brother but another concubine, I would have long have you beaten and thrown you out of the residence.¡±


    Using Ruan Zhu¡¯s words, he was merely a secondary husband yet still dare to act so self-important.


    Yun Shi Wei twitched his mouth: ¡°If you really wanted to toss me out, you¡¯d still have to go through our parents and there¡¯s no way you¡¯d be able to cross that mountain. Furthermore, Zhu Zhu also won¡¯t agree.¡± Recalling the exquisite pleasure from just a moment ago, he couldn¡¯t help but to extend his hand¡­¡­


    Yun Shi Yi endured it and coldly said: ¡°You better be gentle with your groping. Otherwise I¡¯ll break your dirty paw.¡±


    ¡°I got it, okay!¡± Yun Shi Wei saw that his eldest brother didn¡¯t stop him and was secretly delighted. ¡°I went out today and found a job. After I¡¯ve earned some money, I¡¯ll buy some jewelry for Zhu Zhu to wear.¡±


    ¡°What kind of work?¡±


    ¡°As a dock worker to carry sacks and other cargo.¡±


    ¡°Carry sacks?¡± Yun Shi Yi mocked him: ¡°You certainly have more prospects the longer you live. You might as well go work in my Tianyi Pavilion as a waiter. I¡¯ll give you double the wages.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei became angry: ¡°I have hands and feet[a], I definitely won¡¯t depend on you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have your martial arts? Why not be an armed escort or be a courtyard guard? There¡¯s also nothing wrong with teaching. How about I give you some money to open up a martial arts school, specializing in accepting disciples? Why on earth would you be a dock worker with no future prospects?¡±


    ¡°I know it¡¯s a mistake but I can¡¯t help it. Is that enough for you?¡± Yun Shi Wei panted with rage.


    He had gone out for most of the day. There were no vacancies at the armed escorts bureau, taverns, or restaurants. Tian Chu was a country founded on their military so all the countrymen for the most part were proficient in martial arts. This expertise was even more so here with Lan Zhou being such a militaristic city. It was simply out of the question to be an armed escort or a courtyard guard without the right connections. He was naturally stubborn and wasn¡¯t willing to ask Yun Shi Yi for help. By chance, he happened to see on the bulletin board that the dock was hiring workers so he off he went.


    ¡°Whatever you love you do, you can just do it. But when you go out, just don¡¯t say that you¡¯re my, Yun Shi Yi¡¯s, little brother and all will be fine.¡± He couldn¡¯t afford to lose face.


    [a] ÓÐÊÖÓнÅ, idiom meaning has the ability to work

 Chapter 25 - Reorganizing

    Glossary


    [1] Îç | wu | one of the ancient Chinese two-hour periods; designated for 11 am to 1 pm


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Yun Shi Yi was not a person that played a critical role[a] in Lan Zhou, but nevertheless, in the merchant circle, all who heard his distinguished name greatly admired him and would give him a big thumbs up in approval. At only twenty-some years old, he had the ability to earn who knew how many-fold more than the young heirs of rich families who survived by relying on the path built by their forefathers, could in a day.


    But now his full-blooded little brother actually had no prospects and wanted to go work in the docks to haul sacks around. This was simply mocking him.


    Up til now, the two brothers hadn¡¯t yet eaten their evening meal but neither of them were willing to get up. Rather, they only wanted to cuddle their beloved woman.


    The servants were well aware they should not disturb their masters and placed the dishes that the kitchen had already prepared inside pots to preserve heat.


    Finally at midnight, Ruan Zhu woke up and accompanied the two in eating a few bites. But not long after, she collapsed on the bed again and returned to the ¡®God of Dreams¡¯, the Duke of Zhou.[b]


    She was truly exhausted.


    She continued sleeping until noon the next day. With the sun shining brightly inside the room, she finally got up. The Yun brothers had already left as they were both busy with their own matters so she was the only one in the bedroom. Nuan Chun carried a bowl of water inside and attended to her as she freshened up. She picked out a snowy white silk skirt that dragged on the ground and paired it with a diaphanous muslin cape of the same color. Both pieces were long enough to reach the ground and the entire effect was unspeakably graceful.


    Nuan Qing served up all the breakfast dishes, and it was a very luxurious spread. There were seven or eight exquisite small dishes as well as two soups that she didn¡¯t know the names of but was positive there was more to them than meets the eye.


    ¡°Master said Miss¡¯s body is weak, so before he left this morning, he specially instructed the kitchen to make Eight-Treasure Decoction and Ten Supplements Tonic for Miss to drink to enrich her body.¡±


    °ËÕäÌÀ | Eight Treasure Decoction


    ʮȫ´ó²¹ÌÀ | Ten Supplements Tonic


    Recalling how she had fainted in the bedroom last night, Ruan Zhu thought of how Yun Shi Yi must have felt guilty. She glumly labeled herself as useless. This period had many males but few females. How exactly did the women with so many husbands serve them all? It couldn¡¯t be that they were all like her, so immature as to always faint, right?


    Finishing the meal, Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing accompanied her as she sat in Yaoguang Courtyard¡¯s main reception hall to receive Steward Wang¡¯s account of the residence¡¯s financial state.


    Because Steward Wang was skilled in bookkeeping, not only did he supervise the household duties, but Yun Shi Yi also appointed him to manage the residence¡¯s accounts.


    Ruan Zhu randomly picked up a ledger to scrutinize from the pile of reports in front of her. But what she saw recorded on every page was, on X Year X Month X Day, this was the amount used to buy food and grain, this was the total amount of expenses spent on this day, and this was how much each servant¡¯s monthly payment was.


    After looking at the numbers for a while, Ruan Zhu began to feel light-headed and dizzy and golden cartoon stars seemed to swirl around her head. Massaging her temples, she sighed in dismay. How the ancients managed their bookkeeping was indeed a big issue. If this kind of account book was to be seen by one of those big bosses in the current era, not only would the one in charge of accounting be scolded to death, they¡¯d also be sacked.


    ¡°Steward Wang, is this how you¡¯ve always kept the accounts?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Mistress? It¡¯s not that this one, Wang, wants to brag, but I am the master of accounting in Lan Zhou and reckoned to be first or second best. How many large restaurants and large businesses have asked me to be their account manager? But they¡¯ve all been declined by me, ah ha. Who is this Wang, ah? I, of course, am Lan Zhou¡¯s top ranked accountant and not just anyone can invite me for my expertise. If they request me, even if I don¡¯t have a palanquin with eight carriers, I should still have one with four carriers, right?[c] What was that, that account book thing, it¡¯s not me brag¡­¡­¡±


    Steward Wang was drunk and the strong smell of alcohol wafted over with every word that he spoke.


    ¡°Stop¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu disgustedly waved her hand. Steward Wang¡¯s words erred on the side of irrelevancy. If he really was as talented as he had so bragged from his own mouth, how would Yun Shi Yi have kept him here in the residence? He would have long dragged Steward Wang to Tianyi Pavilion and entrusted him with the heavy responsibility of managing the books there.


    ¡°You can withdraw for now. Come back once the hour of wu[1] has passed.¡±


    Having kicked Steward Wang out, she headed for the study and used a homemade dip pen to scratch on some paper. After half a sichen, she finished creating and inputting a table of accounts. Most of the work was fine but those traditional Chinese characters caused her body to be weary and exhausted her strength.


    Towards their Miss¡¯s abnormality, Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing didn¡¯t take it to heart. They didn¡¯t recognize many of the more difficult characters and the average handwriting was the same as the Miss they had served for so many years now. It had just so happened that Ruan Zhu displayed the same characteristics as the original owner.


    After she finished the accounts, she rested for a while. Calling for Steward Wang, she handed the sheet over to him and instructed him to do all the future bookkeeping in this format and to also change all of the previous accounts to this format before handing them over to her. Steward Wang suspiciously accepted the paper and was initially confused as he looked it over, but the more time passed, the more frightened he became until he finally prostrated himself in admiration[d].


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think Mistress had such skill like this. Mistress is truly Lan Zhou¡¯s number one accounting master. I, this Wang, can be considered as having had the chance to meet such an esteemed person. In the future, this one will no longer dare to casually shoot off this one¡¯s mouth by saying how this one¡¯s ability is uninhibited and able to reach the Heavens. But Mistress, it¡¯s not that this one, Wang, wants to brag, but if I were to do accounts based on your format, this Wang should count as Lan Zhou¡¯s second best accounting master, right?¡±


    With a headache, Ruan Zhu gestured with her hand: ¡°You can withdraw. Once you¡¯ve converted all of the accounts, bring them for me to see.¡±


    After Housekeeper Wang left, Ruan Zhu had some people look for Xiao Feng.


    ¡°Where did this Steward Wang come from? He¡¯s really too irritating. Is it not possible to drive him away?¡±


    After Xiao Feng arrived, Ruan Zhu questioned him regarding Steward Wang¡¯s origin.


    ¡°If Mistress finds him troublesome, just clearly tell Eldest Young Master. Everyone that works for the Yun family has some history. Actually, it¡¯s not that serious. Steward Wang is the nephew of one of the secondary fathers of the Young Masters¡¯. Because of their concubine-father¡¯s sentiment, he arranged for Steward Wang to work here. Luckily, this Steward can be considered diligent and hasn¡¯t caused much trouble.¡±


    Ruan Zhu remembered him. This concubine-father was one of the numerous side husbands of her mother-in-law, who was also her paternal aunt. The man was currently taking care of over a dozen shops in Lan Zhou for Master Yun, and was quite a remarkable managing figure. He had three sons with Madam Yun and worked closely with Master Yun.


    Every day, Steward Wang got together with other servants to drink and gamble. This was an obvious case of corrupting their family¡¯s customs. In the future when she had a child, if by chance they blindly followed the crowd and became a small drunkard or a small gambling addict, she¡¯d be worried to death.


    Ruan Zhu coldly smiled: ¡°I do not care how well he did things before. Now that I am the one managing this house, all must heed my words. Pass this on: From today henceforth, as long as someone in the residence drinks alcohol, gambles, or corrupts the general atmosphere, they will be hit twenty times with a cane for breaking the rules once, and double offenders will be sold outside. That Steward Wang is not a servant of my Yun family so I do not have the right to sell him, but if he dares to violate the rules in my home, then don¡¯t blame me for ruthlessly firing him.¡±


    Xiao Feng¡¯s spirits were raised: ¡°What Mistress said is correct. This residence ought to have been reorganized long ago. That rotten-faced slave took advantage of when Eldest Young Master was not home and often drank and gambled on the sly, simply making our residence into a tavern and gamblers¡¯ den.¡±


    That night, Ruan Zhu informed Yun Shi Yi of her decision.


    ¡°I just knew that my wife was a capable one.¡± Climbing onto the bed, he had her sit on his lap: ¡°You can do whatever you want to do. There¡¯s no need for any worries. Steward Wang has also become unsatisfactory in my eyes and I¡¯ve long wanted to get rid of him. But because work has been too busy, this matter kept getting delayed.¡±


    ¡°To be honest, I think a home ought to have the appearance of a home. If he continues to act this way, in the future when we have children, would it not be ¡®like following like¡¯, and they would all become drunkards and gambling addicts?¡±


    ¡°It is this husband¡¯s lapse of judgement. I should have thought of this earlier.¡± Yun Shi Yi deeply contemplated before revealing a smile and placing her horizontally on the bed: ¡°Since Wife has brought up the topic of children, we should put in more effort and make a child come out.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was flushed red and she looked towards the door, afraid Yun Shi Wei, that hothead, would suddenly barge in.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he won¡¯t come here tonight.¡±


    ¡°You punished him again?¡±


    ¡°Us husband and wife ought to have some alone time together.¡± Yun Shi Yi gently removed the clothes on her body, his hands resting on top of her plump breasts. ¡°Wife, it was this husband that was too impetuous last night. I will definitely be careful tonight.¡± He murmured this while trailing kisses from her chest and moving downwards.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­Eldest Cousin¡­¡­I am also not that delicate, I¡¯m just not used to it¡­¡­Ah!¡­¡­How could you kiss there?¡±


    He had unexpectedly pried open her legs and kissed her most private area. ¡°Wife did this for me last night, this husband is returning the favor with a kiss.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­¡­Eldest Cousin¡­¡­how come your finger also¡­¡­¡± He inserted his fingers as well and the dual torment immediately made resistance impossible. Gasping for breath, she arched her back, demanding more.


    ¡°Wife, call me Husband Lord!¡±


    ¡°Husband Lord¡­¡­oh¡­¡­don¡¯t¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s snowy white skin was dyed pink with arousal as the places being harassed by him became more and more tingly. Her two eyes were glazed over with lust and soft moans steadily spilled out of her mouth.


    The night was long and dense. The moon shyly hid among the clouds and the stars shined even brighter than normal. In the courtyard, the several Chinese parasol trees quietly unfurled their leaves in the wind. It was as if nature itself became a bit abnormal because of the charming and gentle demonstration in the main room.


    On the second day, Xiao Feng caught Steward Wang gambling with a few servants. With no trace of politeness, Ruan Zhu punished the servants with the cane and gave Steward Wang a demerit.


    Ruan Zhu was not a heartless person. Seeing the caned servants being lifted away all drenched in blood, she felt extremely uncomfortable. But being in the ancient period meant one had to adapt to the ancient customs. If she were to try to use the humanitarian values of her previous world here, that kind of thinking would not be accepted in this world and others would think she was a lunatic.


    Her heart felt unbearably stifled and she wasn¡¯t even in the mood to eat dinner. Yun Shi Yi looked at her in distress and after carelessly eating a few bites, had the servants remove the dishes and withdraw. Actually, he could eat outside every day as there were many banquets when one was a businessman. But because he was worried about her, he frequently came home with an empty belly to accompany her during the evening meal.


    Yun Shi Yi sighed: ¡°Why must you suffer so? Under the laws of Tian Chu, even if a master has a few servants beaten to death, it is not a big matter.¡±


    Many of the laws in the country of Tian Chu followed the Tang dynasty. A servant¡¯s life was the same as an ant worker¨Clow status and dispensable. These servants couldn¡¯t even guarantee their own survival. All of this was considered normal in this era, but Ruan Zhu remained unable to accept this kind of thinking.


    Yun Shi Wei heartlessly ran over to fuss around, and was forced by Yun Shi Yi to sleep on the chaise lounge in front of the bed. The latter knew she was feeling uncomfortable in her heart and considerately didn¡¯t ask her tonight. He dropped a lingering kiss on her lips and embracing each other, they each entered the land of dreams.


    The servants that had been caned were well-behaved for the next few days. But Steward Wang obviously did not think too much about the punishments. Or perhaps, it was due to it naturally being difficult to just suddenly drop a bad habit, but one afternoon about five or six days later, Xiao Feng discovered and captured Steward Wang gambling with the same servants in the cowshed.


    Ruan Zhu had someone call for a slave trader and sold off those servants to him. She also arranged for Steward Wang to receive two salary payments as compensation and released him as well.


    From this action, the position of Steward in the Yun residence became vacant. Xiao Feng was clever and quick-witted and was considered devoted to his Master. As a plus, he had accompanied Yun Shi Yi since childhood, so the number of characters he recognized was not few.


    Ruan Zhu promoted his position to acting Steward of Yun residence. If he did well, he would receive the formal position; if not, he would return to his original position.


    A lowly servant that had been promoted to a large role such as a steward should be given some face. Being called Xiao Feng was not too suitable, so let¡¯s just call him by the full name then![e]


    Xiao Feng and Xiao Shan are full brothers and thus, their formal personal names became Yun Feng and Yun Shan.


    The father of these two brothers was Master Yun¡¯s capable assistant. He had been abandoned by the side of the road by his heartless parents as they lacked the funds to treat his childhood illness.


    At that time, a young Master Yun brought him home after they happened to meet while the former was out on a trip. To everyone¡¯s surprise, the young boy gradually recovered after he was brought back to Yun manor and seen by a physician. With his life saved, he threw away his family name and was more than willing to follow the Yun surname. After he reached adulthood, Master Yun arranged for him to become a secondary husband to Auntie Zhang of the kitchen, and the sons that were born were Yun Feng and Yun Shan. His two sons were also clever in their work and Master Yun arranged for them to follow the Yun family¡¯s eldest young master, Yun Shi Yi.


    Ruan Zhu reorganized the Yun residence to quite some degree. After a few days, she received a message from Ming Xiang Cui Yu saying her custom-made jewelry has been forged, and to please pick up her goods.


    Not bothering to prepare a carriage, she decided to walk. Taking along Nuan Qing, Nuan Chun and Yun residence¡¯s Steward Yun Feng, they headed towards Ming Xiang Cui Yu.


    [a] ¾Ù×ãÇáÖØ, idiom meaning influential


    [b] Öܹ«, the Duke of Zhou is also known as the God of Dreams because Confucius has been recorded as saying ¡°It has been such a long time since I dreamt of the Duke of Zhou¡± and people interpreted it as the Duke will come to visit a person if something important will happen. (Wikipedia)


    [c] Pun. °Ȩ̈´ó½Î is an idiom that I translated literally above which means to treat guests with honor.


    [d] ÎåÌåͶµØ, idiom meaning to adulate somebody


    [e] The С ¡®Xiao¡¯ in their names literally means small/tiny, and is generally used for nicknames or as endearment aka not formal at all.

 Chapter 26 - Punishing Mister Peacock

    Glossary


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    Ruan Zhu led the servants in window shopping, constantly stopping before continuing their stroll. She walked into a few stores and bought some items for them to carry. When they arrived at Ming Xiang Cui Yu, over half of a sichen had already passed. The male servants were fine but she was feeling rather tired.


    Manager Yu warmly received her and led her to the drawing room specially for VIP customers, where he offered her some Shanming tea. Yun Feng and the rest were led by a shop assistant to a room where servants waited.


    After a moment, Manager Yu cautiously and solemnly placed a delicate box on the table. Removing the lid, a set of exquisitely handcrafted jewelry was revealed.


    Ruan Zhu picked up each piece one at a time to scrutinize them. Not bad. They were forged exactly as she had requested. Each piece was adorned with sapphires imported from Persia that had been carved into angular shapes. When the gems reflected the sunlight, they appeared even more dazzling.


    ¡°Saying this is a little shameful, but this old one has been dealing with jewelry for a lifetime yet has never known that cutting gems into angular shapes could make them shine so brilliantly, practically resembling the bright stars in the Heavens. It really causes one to be amazed. How did Miss think of this?¡±


    How should she answer? Say she stole the idea, that she heard it from someone, or that she saw it in some place? She wasn¡¯t as noble as the transmigrated girls in novels. Transmigration, that bizarre affair, was something that the Heavens bestowed after all. Only a fool would not use the knowledge in their head to give themselves benefits.


    ¡°I randomly thought of it.¡± She insipidly responded with a sentence.


    Picking up a bracelet, she slid it onto her left wrist. The chain bracelet was connected to a slender ring via a thin connecting chain. She slid the ring onto her ring finger and held her hand up for a look, exposing a satisfied style. This era did not have chain bracelets so the one she designed was the first in this period. This style should be very eye-catching, right?


    ¡°That indeed is hard to come by. Miss Qin just randomly thought of it and it turned out so well. If you were to carefully think about it, wouldn¡¯t the results be exceptional?¡±


    In the middle of admiring her masterpiece, Ruan Zhu¡¯s line of thought was interrupted by a man¡¯s voice. Raising her head, she discovered it was the peacock man, Liu Fei Xu. He was indeed called Liu Fei Xu. Though his name was about the same as Liu Ruins, this time she did not confuse the two.


    ¡°Has Mister Liu been well?¡± With an indifferent expression, Ruan Zhu stood up and bowed in greeting. In order to not lose face, she had spent a great deal of time learning the etiquette of the ancients after transmigrating.


    ¡°Why use that expression? I am not a ghost.¡± Liu Fei Xu felt unusually gloomy. When other females saw him, which one of them wasn¡¯t like flies attracted to honey, sticking next to him?


    ¡°Does Mister Liu have a matter?¡± Ruan Zhu placed two silver banknotes on top of the table. Turning her head around, she realized Manager Yu was no longer in the drawing room. ¡°These two banknotes are sufficient to cover the cost of this jewelry set. I still have some matters, so will take my leave.¡±


    The first time they met, she had teased Liu Fei Xu because she had just transmigrated and thought everything was novel, but now that the other party continued to nag her, she only felt dislike and disgust. People were just like so, doing things they knew were wrong but still doing them anyway. Not cherishing others¡¯ visiting you; feeling too disinclined and lazy to respond to others¡¯ questions; yet thinking that your own self stands out from the masses. Ruan Zhu was also just an average person.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go, ah!¡±


    Ruan Zhu had already reached the entryway of the drawing room when a figure flashed before her eyes. Liu Fei Xu blocked the doorway, one hand grabbing onto her arm¡­¡­Such a delicate and weak arm, as if without bones. This sensation tickled Liu Fei Xu¡¯s heart and he couldn¡¯t help but to rub it a few times.


    Humiliation and anger flashed in Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes. Her other arm pushed against his chest and she lifted up her right leg, ruthlessly bringing it down on his foot. The strength she was using to stomp on him wasn¡¯t light but the other party didn¡¯t even wrinkle his brow.


    Was he another one that knew martial arts?


    She became alarmed and realized she couldn¡¯t force her way free. Just like how she dealt with Yun Shi Wei, she had to use her head. Using tears against a member of her family was fine and good, but using it against an outsider would first of all, throw her pride away, and second of all, it might not be effective.


    It was rare for a man of Tian Chu to dare take liberties with a woman. Liu Fei Xu¡¯s courage was not small. Was this called being fickle or was it more of a display of flirtatious behavior? It was rare for females of the same status to look kindly on these men with such bad reputations. Other than selling themselves off, becoming a secondary husband, or perhaps marrying a woman of bad character, the only other option of these men was to stay at home and stink it up for the rest of their lives.


    Or maybe not? After all, didn¡¯t Pan Jin Lian have Ximen Qing to adore her?[a]


    It looks like no matter which space-time it was, there was no lack of people like Pan Jin Lian. No matter how strict and fixed society was, it was unable to prevent obscene men from changing at once on seeing something different[b].


    ¡°Pan Jin¡­¡­um¡­¡­Mister Liu, if you have something to say, you can say it. No need to act like this.¡± Her mind was wandering again.


    Liu Fei Xu did not release her arm. He stared at her, revealing a faint but cold sneer: ¡°This Liu has no other intention but would just like for Miss to explain something. I remembered you had said you were surnamed Qin and had yet to marry. Why is Lan Zhou¡¯s Yun residence written on the custom order?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was expressionless: ¡°At the time, I had said it out of fun. You were willing to believe it so what could I do?¡±


    The criticism in Liu Fei Xu¡¯s eyes deepened: ¡°You said you lived in a Qin village that was twenty li south of this city. I¡¯ve inquired and there really are two families surnamed Qin that reside outside of the city, but there is no Qin village, much less a Miss Qin like you.¡±


    He was still holding onto her arm. The strength of all who learned martial arts was not light and because he was angry, he had unconsciously exerted strength. She was trembling all over from pain and sweat dripped from her temples.


    ¡°Young Madam Yun, why did you have to deceive me?¡±


    He was aware of her identity.


    She endured the pain in her arm and coldly smiled: ¡°Mister Liu, you have a problem with your brain. Could it be that if you randomly ask a stranger on the road their home address, the person would just tell you the truth? Is the person a fool or senseless, not worried whether you harbor unfathomable motives; are two-faced and duplicitous; are a thief that treats human lives as grass; or a vicious bandit strung through and filled with evil[c]?¡±


    Liu Fei Xu was flabbergasted: ¡°I cannot find any words to argue with you.¡±


    Seeing he still hadn¡¯t let her go, Ruan Zhu angrily said: ¡°Let go, it really hurts.¡±


    Liu Fei Xu somewhat loosened his hold on her arm but refused to let go. Her arm was so tender and nice to the touch, he couldn¡¯t bear it any longer and gave her a few extra pinches. He thought of a phrase: muscles of ice, bones of jade[d] .


    Ruan Zhu was furious and aimed a kick at his family jewels. She was not a virgin maiden and had nothing to be embarrassed about.


    ¡°You can¡¯t kick this place.¡±


    Liu Fei Xu extended a hand and caught her little foot. Ruan Zhu¡¯s footing wasn¡¯t steady and she started falling backwards but with one tug of his other hand, was pulled to his chest. He smelled a trace of the female¡¯s fragrance and it was unexpectedly such a nice scent. This was truly what fully holding a warm and fragrant jade in your arms and heart[e] meant. The women in the past at once lost their color and faded into nothingness.


    His heart swayed and he held her as he made his way to the taishiyi and sat down, placing her on his legs.


    Example of taishiyi (̫ʦÒÎ), meant to be used by the owner or master of the shop or house


    At this moment, contrary to expectations, Ruan Zhu had calmed down and was pondering a countermeasure for this situation.


    Virtue didn¡¯t account for anything when it came to the women of this era, but she wasn¡¯t used to that custom and at the very least, definitely didn¡¯t have this habit with Mister Peacock.


    She had become gentle and agreeable and quietly sat in his lap.


    ¡°Now you¡¯ve become obedient.¡± Liu Fei Xu saw that she no longer rebelled and smiled out of self-satisfaction. He just knew that his charm was boundless. Didn¡¯t all of those other Madams put on an act in the beginning but in the end kept begging him over and over? But compared to the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam, the little beauty in his arms seemed to be even more pure and sweet. He didn¡¯t know what eating her would taste like.


    He was rather looking forward to it.


    He didn¡¯t know when but the beautiful face of the belle in his embrace had become tinged with red and her eyes were filled with tender feelings. It was an appearance as if she couldn¡¯t restrain her joy. She softly laid her head on his shoulder, her arms wrapping around his neck¡­¡­


    Hehe, she couldn¡¯t endure it anymore? He really was someone that was liked by everyone, a person that attracted all women until they couldn¡¯t hold back any longer.


    ¡°Beauty, Elder Brother will properly show you tenderness.¡±


    ¡°Nn!¡±


    The corner of Liu Fei Xu¡¯s mouth was lightly raised and his eyes and brows were clearly curved into a smiling expression. But when an ice-cold metal object touched his neck meridian, he could no longer smile.


    ¡°This is a fatal area for a human. Just a slight move will cause you to lose your life. How about I send you to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss[f] to play?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not familiar with Buddha so there¡¯s no need.¡± Liu Fei Xu bitterly smiled. How could he have been so careless?


    ¡°Then how about sending you to Fengdu[g] to play?¡±


    The thing in Ruan Zhu¡¯s hand was the Emei dagger that Yun Shi Wei had given her, and she had worn the hoop attached to the dagger as a ring on her finger. The length of the rod was less than ten centimeters so if it was held in the palm of a hand, it wouldn¡¯t be noticed by others. Coming across danger, a pointed dagger would automatically spring out with one press of the mechanism. This blade was sharp beyond compare and was currently held on top of one of Liu Fei Xu¡¯s carotid arteries. As long as she gently dragged it, blood would immediately spurt out like an open faucet. Even if one was an immortal, one¡¯s life would be difficult to save.


    ¡°You are a female without martial arts. Why on earth do you have lethal weapons on you?¡±


    ¡°Because there are man-eating tigers in this world.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s voice was soft and gentle, as if she currently was not blackmailing him by holding a dagger to his neck. But the quieter she was, the more he trembled with fear. The ferociousness of the women of Tian Chu was not inferior to the men. And among those, there was no lack of men that killed for money or committed other crimes in the city. He did not dare to gamble on her courage.


    ¡°Have Manager Yu and my attendants called in here.¡±


    ¡°I can call for Manager Yu but I have no right to call for your attendants.¡±


    Ruan Zhu lightly exerted some strength and the Emei dagger lightly cut, leaving a line of blood on Liu Fei Xu¡¯s pretty neck. ¡°I¡¯ll call for them.¡± A wise man knew better than to fight when the odds were against him. He hurriedly answered her, and loudly shouted for Manager Yu to bring Ruan Zhu¡¯s attendants in with him.


    If the men of Tian Chu did not become more aware of their sense of honor and knew that they should not harm their reputation under thousands of staring eyes, then they wouldn¡¯t shamelessly use their fox charms to publicly fool around with women, right?


    Ruan Zhu waited until there were footsteps outside the door before swiftly jumping off Mister Peacock¡¯s lap.


    If by chance others saw that she had ¡®ruined¡¯ this coquettish man¡¯s reputation and integrity, she would actually have to take this fungus as a husband. She was definitely not willing to suffer such a loss. Even if this male slut found her a gold mountain, she would still not want him.


    ¡°What¡¯s with that expression? I¡¯m not a man-eating tiger.¡± Was he that unlikable in her eyes?


    ¡°I¡¯m worried your body has sexually transmitted diseases.¡± Ruan Zhu disdainfully smiled.


    ¡°Who has sexually transmitted diseases?¡± Liu Fei Xu faintly smiled when his expression suddenly changed. ¡°You know everything?¡± There was a chilliness in his eyes. The matter of him being the flower thief was only known by a few close confidantes. The majority of the time, he committed his crimes with a mask, so how did she find out? His hands slightly tensed. Should he take advantage of this time when no one had entered yet to silence her?


    Liu Fei Xu could be said to have a guilty conscience. Ruan Zhu hadn¡¯t thought of this at all.


    ¡°Know what?¡± She gave a light hmph: ¡°I know you forced a weak woman. If this matter was to be known outside, could you still conduct yourself with integrity?¡±


    Liu Fei Xu released a breath.


    Her three attendants walked inside and Ruan Zhu no longer looked at Mister Peacock. Instructing them to pick up the jewelry case, she led them in exiting Ming Xiang Cui Yun.


    She vowed that this would be the last time she came to this blasted place.


    Thus, it became the third day of the third lunar month and the banks of Lan Zhou filled with visitors. Since ancient times, the Chinese people had the tradition of looking for scenic spots next to water. Lan Zhou¡¯s Lan River was very famous as it was connected to the ocean on the east and to the imperial capital on the west. It was always busy and the number of pleasure boats owned by the rich on the river each day were tantamount to clouds and could not be counted.


    Ruan Zhu had brought Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing out to play but actually came across an unexpected matter.


    [a] Pan Jin Lian is a femme fatale and one of the most famous villainesses in classical Chinese literature. (Wikipedia) Ximeng Qing is a very lustful merchant with six wives and concubines. The two appear in two related novels¨CIn Water Margin, Pan has an affair with Ximeng while in The Golden Lotus, Ximeng takes Pan as a wife after her original husband dies. In both novels, Pan murders her original husband.


    [b] ¼ûÒì˼Ǩ, idiom meaning never satisfied with what one has


    [c] ¶ñ¹áÂúÓ¯, idiom meaning guilty of monstrous crimes


    [d] ±ù¼¡Óñ¹Ç, idiom used to praise women for having skin as bright and clear as jade and a pure and refined figure


    [e] ÈíÓñÎÂÏ㱧Âú»³, phrase from Dream of the Red Chamber that, you guessed it, describes a woman being like jade


    [f] Î÷·½¼«ÀÖÊÀ½ç aka Sukhavati aka Buddhist ¡®Heaven¡¯ (Wikipedia)


    [g] Ûº¶¼, a famous necropolis nicknamed the ¡®Ghost City¡¯ (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 27 - Pleasure Boat

    Glossary


    [1] ËÈ | ci | one of the ancient Chinese two-hour periods; designated for 9-11 am


    Every spring season, the people that had been cooped up in the city for the winter all flowed outside the city gates in groups to bask in the natural scent of the grassy fields and hire a pleasure boat to go sightseeing.


    This was the time when Lan River was most bustling with activity. The bazaar and temple fairs were all taking advantage of this period to collect money. Many peddlers walked around, shouting for passerbys to buy the local specialties of Lan Zhou. Furthermore, there were a few street troupes and jugglers that would start performing upon coming to an area crowded with people by arranging makeshift public venues.


    On Lan River, there were innumerable small boats with sails that looked that specks against the blue waves. On the multitude of beautifully decorated pleasure boats, there was bound to be a few that held banquets for the sake of conducting blind dates or for poetry clubs. All the young misters of each family were dressed in bright and clean clothing, leisurely waving a fan with one hand while long swords were strapped to their waists, full of an heroic and outstanding air.


    All the young madams and misses also took this chance to look for their ideal husband. Whether they were looking for a principal husband or a secondary husband, it all depended on their own ability and the status of the other party. If both parties were willing, a matchmaker would be dispatched to link the two together. If one party was not willing, just simply turn one¡¯s head and re-select.


    Ruan Zhu had transmigrated not too recently, so how could she know of these things? She came out merely to enjoy the fun. Because she was still considered a bride, her appearance was delicate and colorful. She wore a lake blue skirt made out of diaphanous muslin, embroidered with small pinkish white orchids. Paired with the head ornaments she had forged at Ming Xiang Cui Yu that accentuated her delicate features, her entire appearance was unspeakably eye-catching.


    ·Û°×É« (The pinkish white shade)


    Yun Shi Yi carried her down the carriage. The young man couldn¡¯t help but have his eyes linger on her body as he took in her stunning appearance. He once again felt proud in his heart and pleased with himself and carefully rearranged her slightly rumpled clothing.


    ¡°The pleasure boat I rented is not lacking in anything, so do not hesitate to play to your heart¡¯s content. Once this husband has finished settling work matters in the city, I will come and accompany you here.¡± As she had just come to Lan Zhou and had yet to make friends, Yun Shi Yi was worried that she would become bored and stuffy staying at home all day so had suggested they go out for the day. Unfortunately, he once again couldn¡¯t accompany her. He had partnered with a friend earlier to import a batch of Phoebe zhennan wood[a] from the South. Not wanting it to be detained by the corrupt local authorities in Liu Zhou, he was currently planning to send men to negotiate and resolve the situation.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s face was bright and clear as if he had been cleansed by a spring wind but Ruan Zhu still noticed a trace of melancholy in his face. Feeling a bit worried, she feigned a light tone and said: ¡°Then you have to hurry, ah~ Don¡¯t wait until the gates are closed, leaving me alone on board. At that time when I leave with others, where would you look for me?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi caressed her fine jet-black hair and saw that in her beautifully coiled suiyunji hairstyle, an unusual gold buyao that he knew she had personally designed was inserted. He praised his young wife¡¯s aesthetics in his mind¨Cthis style of buyao has never been worn by anyone else.


    ËæÔÆ÷Ù | Suiyunji hairstyle


    Ever since they got married, it seems they¡¯ve never gone on an outing together! He was reluctant to leave, embracing her for a while longer. The tip of his tongue brushing against her ear, he murmured: ¡°Wife, I will rush over as quickly as possible.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart felt as sweet as honey and her eyes flickered with affection. In a low voice: ¡°Eldest Cousin, I want to be alone with you tonight. Don¡¯t let Second Cousin come over.¡±


    ¡°That is exactly what I wanted.¡± Yun Shi Yi¡¯s brows and eyes curved in a smile. The beautiful woman in his arms also coincidentally smiled, revealing her two shallow dimples. His heart itched at the sight. If there was no one around, he would have passionately kissed her.


    But by the side, Yun Feng was not caught up in their atmosphere and urged: ¡°Master, it¡¯s almost the hour of ci[1]. The ones assisting cannot be kept waiting in Tianyi Pavilion. May Master not delay this matter.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi sighed. Letting go of Ruan Zhu, he turned and re-entered the carriage with Yun Feng.


    Ruan Zhu watched as the back of the carriage faded from view, feeling a little disappointed. There was finally a chance to come out and play but she was still alone. Lately, she also didn¡¯t know where the hell Yun Shi Wei has gone to. Early in the morning, there would be no trace of his silhouette and he would return all smelly late in the evenings. She had two hubbies yet neither of them could stay by her side to keep her company.


    The boat that Yun Shi Yi had rented was over ten meters long. Richly ornamented, it had a very elegant air. There were various delicate fruit pastries and desserts; vegetables, rice, oil, and salt; all the utensils and other necessities one could think of required for eating; even multiple sets of clothing already prepared. Ruan Zhu looked at it all and involuntarily laughed. In the past when she had read novels that depicted the wealthy going out for an outing, she had always thought they prepared for the trip as if they were going through a regular day in their lives. She hadn¡¯t thought that she would be able to experience it herself.


    The boatman steered the pleasure boat away from the shore and let it slowly travel along the river.


    In her previous life, Ruan Zhu had never come to such a large area before but it was only natural as the lakes and ponds near her city had all become so polluted that they were in no condition to be seen by tourists. If it wasn¡¯t a plastic bag, then it was a plastic water bottle floating on the surface. Contrast that with this era¡¯s clear and crystalline blue jade surface that gleamed with the sun¡¯s reflection like a natural mirror. The sun¡¯s rays shone on the water droplets like a layer of gauze.


    If at this moment she was in a small canoe rather than this large pleasure boat, she would have really wanted to extend her hand into the lake water to have a sense of the water quality of a thousand years ago.


    ¡°Miss, this is the iced strawberry drink prepared as you described. Please have a taste to see if it is to your liking.¡± Nuan Chun carried a bright white jade cup over.


    Ruan Zhu accepted the cup and sampled it. She nodded: ¡°This is fine.¡± She truly wasn¡¯t accustomed to the tea of this era and stir-fried tea also wasn¡¯t something easily manufactured in a short amount of time. So instead, she had taught them how to make fruit juice. Though the spring season¡¯s fruit selection was limited, she was luckily fond of strawberries.


    Carrying the jade cup to the deck, she turned her gaze outwards. Ships of all different sizes were interspersed on Lan River, weaving back and forth. She suddenly felt carefree and relaxed.


    The boatman was in his forties and his small eyes were rather shrewd. He had often teamed up with prostitutes by helping them solicit customers on his boat for some extra income, so he fawningly said: ¡°There are no Madams and Misses that come to play on Lan River that don¡¯t have some brothers to drink wine with. If Madam has a brother that she would like to invite, why not tell this little one which household he is from? This little one will call him over for you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was startled. Why were these words sound so familiar? They were like the words that a brothel owner would say to solicit customers in movies and television. Too busy to think too deeply about it, she hurriedly dismissed the idea: ¡°No need, I don¡¯t have one.¡±


    But when she slightly thought harder, the meaning became clear. It seems he had wanted her to visit a prostitute. Using her previous world¡¯s method of reflection, if she had accepted a male prostitute, did that signify as her visiting a prostitute or would others see her as the prostitute? One really couldn¡¯t do things where they spent money yet still incurred losses. Furthermore, there was also the dangerous possibility of being infected by sexually transmitted diseases. It¡¯s said that at the end of the Qing dynasty, there was an emperor that had died precisely because he had visited a low-grade brothel and carelessly caught an STD.


    The boatman was a little disappointed, but he had been doing this for over ten years now so what kind of people had he not met before? Just from looking at the clothes of the Madam in front of him, it was possible to see that she was extremely well-off who could, in passing, give a prostitute several taels of silver at once. If he could split it with his partner, that would be the equivalent of the pay gained as a boatman over several days¡¯ of hard work. He was a secondary husband and after his stupid son had separated from the family, he fundamentally didn¡¯t have any assets to his name. He had to suffer so much and it was all for the sake of his child. He thickened his face and smiled: ¡°There¡¯s no shortage of us good brothers on Lan River so this little one will first call two of them over for Madam. If Madam is not fond of them, then we can just send them back. It would not use much money.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had not expected he would think for himself and act accordingly[b].


    But Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing seemed to be accustomed to this. Which family¡¯s young Miss, which family¡¯s Madam, would not bestow their fellow womenfolk a spring excursion while recruiting a few prostitutes to sing and dance for entertainment? Even a few honorable Madams would frequently call their friends to visit the brothels together.


    The two men that were called were around sixteen or seventeen years of age. With a face full of makeup and dressed in bright red and green clothing, just looking at them caused one to have a headache. The men had muddled around in life and being a prostitute was about all they could do. Looking at their appearance, they were obviously also false women and seeing them made her want to spit. It would be a wonder if she could muster up any desire for any of them.


    Ruan Zhu very gloomily asked the boatman: ¡°Are all of your Lan River brothers of this conduct?¡±


    The boatman was experienced and knowledgeable and knew that these two brothers did not conform to this Madam¡¯s expectations. He smiled: ¡°This Madam seems to be a foreigner. Among us brothers of the Lan River, there are multiple with reputation and fame. They are the Four Great Masters¨CLu Piao Xiang, Wan Zi Yu, Feng Qing Bai, Shen Cong Yun. Which of them is not among the world¡¯s best? They know how to write poetry and know martial arts so who knows how many women admire them? But the visitors they receive for the most part are only royalty or noble women. For the common people, even if they are very well-off, they may not necessarily have the chance to meet them.¡±


    Ruan Zhu hmphed. Aren¡¯t they merely prostitutes, relying on selling their bodies in exchange for money? What was the need for all these crazy fans? Towards Nuan Chun, she said: ¡°Compensate these two with two taels of silver.¡±


    This sort of trash, she¡¯s seen enough on Mango TV[c]. She didn¡¯t expect that the real thing was even harder to withstand.


    The two courtesan¡¯s ranks were not high and they ordinarily received aged commoner customers. When they had gotten on the boat and saw that their client unexpectedly was a young, beautiful and graceful maiden, they were secretly delighted. Who would have thought they would be sent away. But because they had earned some silver from this, it was worth it.


    Nuan Chun sent away the two courtesans and whispered in Nuan Qing¡¯s ear: ¡°This trash isn¡¯t even worth half of us yet dared to have our family¡¯s Miss notice them. Really too shameless.¡±


    Nuan Qing also felt disdainful: ¡°They¡¯re still prostitutes from a brothel. Who knows if they have any shameful diseases on their bodies?¡± In Nuan Qing¡¯s mind, their Miss has always been noble, a pure and holy one. He would be unable to bear it if this kind of lowly man were to touch her.


    As the two of them were muttering in the background, they heard their Miss¡¯s crisp voice: ¡°Look at who is on that boat over there. Isn¡¯t she awfully familiar? Oh, it¡¯s precisely the one that wore the wrinkled and old green silk jacket. Wasn¡¯t her name Yu something Hua? Oh right, Yu Lian Hua.¡±


    The two servants looked towards the direction she pointed. About ten meters away from them was a very shabby boat. A very ordinary woman held onto a half-naked young man in each arm. Of the two men, one was feeding her wine while the other was adding food to her dish.


    Ruan Zhu remembered¨Cit¡¯s the woman with the chastity belts. Baffled, she asked: ¡°Didn¡¯t she not have any money? How could she still have the leisurely mood to be with courtesans? The clothes she¡¯s wearing now are still the same old ones she wore the last time. She had said that if she had money, she would use it improve the store front. Don¡¯t tell me she used it all on prostitutes?¡±


    The boatman smiled: ¡°Who among the women that come out to play don¡¯t look for courtesans? That boat is shoddy and poor; it doesn¡¯t even have a roof to keep out the elements. The courtesans on the boat are also the lowest ranking ones among the Lan River brothers so only some ten or so coins is enough to play with them. A few common and destitute women will choose these kind of courtesans to play with to draw a picture of a happy time.¡±


    The upper class women of Tian Chu had the tradition of visiting courtesans. The earliest examples came from the Tang dynasty¡¯s Empress Wu Ze Tian and Princess Taiping. After the country was established in the aftermath of the An Shi Rebellion, this fad emerged after several hundred years. Most of the homes of the well-off women were frequently filled with company¨Cnight feasts filled with flowery wine where courtesans that can sing and dance[d] would walk to and fro¨Ctheir homes were pretty much the same as a bar or a nightclub. But these things, Ruan Zhu had yet to understand and would only gradually become aware.


    As for the other female, for the sake of opening her new store, Yu Lian Hua had spent these few days wracking her head and with great difficulty had finally made some progress. Feeling ecstatic, she had run outside to while the day away as a reward to herself. It didn¡¯t matter how good the men at home were¨Cthey couldn¡¯t match up to the novelty of the ones outside. Assigning the two men to serve her at her side, she stretched her hands inside their pants.


    The distance between the two ships was not far so Ruan Zhu was able to see everything clearly. She felt sick. Wasn¡¯t she still eating? Doing that while eating, wasn¡¯t that disgusting?


    At this time, Yu Lian Hua all of a sudden looked over and was pleasantly surprised, her eyes immediately brightening.


    [a] ½ðË¿éªÄ¾, very expensive tree prized for its wood. Currently protected in China, where it is endemic. (Wikipedia & example of furniture made from this wood here)


    [b] ×Ô×÷Ö÷ÕÅ, idiom meaning to act on one¡¯s own initiative


    [c] â¹ų̂, large Chinese broadcasting enterprise with lots of original shows (Wikipedia)


    [d] ÄܸèÉÆÎè, idiom meaning a person of many talents

 Chapter 28

    ¡°Little Sister of the Ruan family.¡± Yu Lian Hua pushed away the two men and yelled at the boatman: ¡°Row over there, hurry and row over there. That person is my friend.¡±


    ¡°You, a destitute ghost, has such a wealthy friend? Who are you trying to fool?¡± The brothel owner aboard the ship walked over, his two whiskers above his lips quivering with each word: ¡°This old father doesn¡¯t care who your friend is. First pay the cost of the flower wine and then if you want to die, no one will block your path.¡±


    ¡°What kind of words are you speaking? Cough, cough. That person really is my friend.¡± Yu Lian Hua was extremely embarrassed over him calling her a destitute ghost and badgering her money, especially since all of this was seen and heard by Ruan Zhu. She quickly counted out several copper coins from her bag and handed them over.


    The two boats approached each other and Yu Lian Hua climbed aboard the decorated pleasure boat but was directly stopped by Nuan Chun, who held out a basin full of water: ¡°Our family¡¯s miss is most peeved when others are not clean. Madam Yu has touched and fondled the dirty things of those lowly men. Troubling Madam to please wash cleanly before coming over.¡±


    Yu Lian Hua flushed and could only squat next to the basin, carefully washing her hands before picking up a towel by the side to wipe them clean.


    Nuan Chun waited until she had finished before coldly carrying the basin with the towel to the side of the ship. Lifting both arms, he threw everything into the river. The water basin floated on top of the water surface for a while before sinking. Only the towel was still faintly visible, bobbing up and down.


    Ruan Zhu massaged her temples. Really now, wasn¡¯t this exactly environmental pollution? She had only instructed Nuan Qing to throw everything away after Yu Lian Hua had finished washing, but she hadn¡¯t said to throw it in the river, ah!


    The boatman repeatedly stamped his feet and could only sigh in pity. That water basin was made of copper. Selling it would have been enough to buy over ten catties of rice!


    Yu Lian Hua awkwardly laughed: ¡°Little Sister Ruan, I trust you have been well since we last met, ya? Hehe, ever since that day, Older Sister has actually really wanted to see you again.¡± It would be foolish if she didn¡¯t look for an opportunity to curry favor with wealthy people. She did not miss her. She missed the shiny silver in her bag.


    How could Ruan Zhu not know this? Pointing towards the ship¡¯s hold, she said: ¡°Please, have a seat inside.¡±


    Yu Lian Hua followed behind Ruan Zhu as they entered the decorated pleasure boat and into the gorgeously arranged interior. The cups, plates, and other utensils were all elegantly molded and beautifully painted. With one glance, it was obvious that these were produced by famous kilns where any product of theirs if sold, would be enough to buy several bolts of the highest quality silk. She lowered her head to look at the shabby silk jacket on her body and then looked at the other party. Even the other¡¯s servants were dressed more dignified than herself. Her expression became all the more solemn and cautious.


    Ruan Zhu ordered Nuan Qing to serve two cups of iced strawberry juice. After a while, the drinks were placed on the table. Yu Lian Hua drank a sip and smacked her lips in satisfaction: ¡°This chilled soup is so delicious. I wonder how it was created?¡±


    Nuan Qing gave a puchi of laughter, his face extremely disdainful. Seeing his own Miss give him a meaningful glance, he respectfully bowed and exited the ship¡¯s hold. Seeing Nuan Chun, he whispered: ¡°That woman really feels no shame. Who does she think she is, ah? Daring to call herself ¡®older sister¡¯ and calling our family¡¯s Miss ¡®little sister¡¯. It really makes one infuriated.¡±


    Nuan Chun pulled him to the side: ¡°If these words were to be heard by others, us brothers would be mocked for throwing away our Miss¡¯s face. Don¡¯t say such foolish things in the future.¡±


    ¡°I understand. I¡¯m just so angry it¡¯s unbearable.¡±


    At this moment, Ruan Zhu was not familiar towards many matters in this era. It just so happened that the person in front of her currently was one that spoke harshly but did not have any bad intentions. Although her attire was very sloppy and her air was coarse, her personality was fortunately rather straightforward, worthy of Ruan Zhu to associate with her. If it was changed with one that had a weak personality and loved to cry for attention, it would be too late for Ruan Zhu to have a headache.


    The two people discussed the local customs of Lan Zhou, one asking, the other answering. Yu Lian Hua gradually became less reserved and she chattered: ¡°I won¡¯t talk about the ones far away, but among the shores of Lan River, the Four Great Masters are definitely the most famous of all. Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s guqin is able to captivate all who hear its sounds. With one soft look of Wan Zhi Yu¡¯s eyes, any woman who sees him will have no resistance. It¡¯s a pity he always wears a veil and no one has ever seen the face behind it. Feng Qing Bai is a master of poetry. As long as the poem is created by him, it will become popular very quickly. Shen Chong Yun¡¯s sword dance interweaves strength and gentleness together and his figure is also top quality¡­¡­¡±


    Yu Lian Hua¡¯s eyes shined with infatuation and obsession, continuing to drink the fruit juice as she talked. Her cup was soon empty.


    ¡°It seems as if you¡¯ve seen them with your own eyes?¡±


    ¡°Last year when the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam organized the ceremony for Guanyin[a], I was able to sort of see them from a distance but they quickly left. It really is a pity. It would have been nice if I could have looked at them from up close.¡±


    Ruan Zhu did not agree. They were basically the same as the celebrities in her past life that relied on their looks, some small talents, or funny jokes for their reputation to shoot up. If one were to truly come in contact with them, one may find that these celebrities are not necessarily as perfect as imagined. Thinking of her family¡¯s hubby, he seemed to be classified as a young entrepreneur, if using terms from her previous world. A person who was at the level of a chairman or CEO, handsome and wealthy. How many of those female stars would crane their neck and break their heads as they fought with each other to become his mistress?


    ¡°I do not understand. Since the Four Great Masters are such outstanding characters, why on earth would they be courtesans? What did you say about Lu Piao Xiang¨Chis guqin skill is extraordinary? Feng Qing Bai¡¯s poetry skills are outstanding? If they have such talents, isn¡¯t being a courtesan disrespecting themselves?¡±


    Maybe it really was self-disrespect, hmm? In the late Ming dynasty, which of the Eight Beauties of Qinhuai[b] were not doubly blessed in appearance and skill? But after becoming accustomed to being with men of nobility that lived a life of brocade garments, jade meals[c] which one of them would be willing to join the ranks of the poverty-stricken common people? In her previous life, weren¡¯t there also lots of college students that went overseas to become prostitutes?


    Yu Lian Hua was stunned: ¡°How would I know this?¡±


    As the two of them were conversing, directly in front of them was a refined two-story pleasure boat. Sounds of singing drifted over. Accompanied with ethereal traditional Chinese instruments, the overall noise was extremely pleasing to the ear. The other boat floated closer. On board the ship, they could see gorgeous brocade clothes, glittering and glamorous, creating an atmosphere that was conspicuously romantic and flashy to the extreme.


    All of the windows on the boat were thrown open so Yu Lian Hua could clearly see outside. Her eyes immediately brightened and sparkled with light as she pointed towards a peerlessly handsome man standing at the bow of the ship: ¡°I recognize that mister, he¡¯s the young master of Ming Xiang Cui Yu. My father is the manager at his store so I¡¯ve seen him a few times before.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had also seen him. He was dressed even more ostentatiously than the previous times she had met him. A silver cap inlaid with precious gems bound his crow-black hair on top of his head while a pale blue brocade chang pao embroidered with dark flowers covered his body. On his waist was tied a white jade belt of considerable value, edged with gold. A white soft smoke gauze robe was draped on his back. His entire body appeared even more dazzling underneath the sun with the light shining on him just so. Accompanying his picturesque appearance, his pair of peach blossom eyes looked even more flirtatious.


    Yu Lian Hua incessantly dawdled: ¡°In the Liu clan, there has been members that have become part of the imperial court. They are a powerful aristocratic household in Lan Zhou and even the prefectural magistrate will give them some face. Mister Liu has good bearing and is elegant, distinguished, free, and accomplished. Even Lan Zhou¡¯s Four Great Masters may not have his refined bearing.¡±


    She had just been praising the Four Great Masters to an extremely disturbing degree, and now they had lost their charm. To be able to compare a noble son of an aristocratic and prestigious house with some brothel prostitutes, Yu Lian Hua was truly talented. If this was known to Liu Fei Xu, Ruan Zhu wondered if he would be so infuriated steam would come out?


    Liu Fei Xu¡¯s appearance really was handsome but Ruan Zhu barely glanced at him before moving her eyes away. This empty person really had a beautiful exterior but it was a pity his insides were lacking. It was too hard for such a man to make her attracted.


    She called for Nuan Qing to pour another cup of chilled strawberry juice. Picking up a flaky almond pastry, she took a small bite and couldn¡¯t help but give a ¡®like¡¯: ¡°This pastry is not bad. Where was this bought?¡±


    Seeing his Miss like it, Nuan Qing smiled: ¡°Early this morning, Master instructed Yun Feng to Huangji pastry store to buy multiple types. It¡¯s been said this is a shop with a long-established reputation and the wealthy families in Lan Zhou like to eat their pastries. It¡¯s just that they are much more expensive than other stores. If Miss likes them, this one can go bring more over.¡±


    Yu Lian Hua picked up a flaky almond pastry and swallowed it in one go, her eyes unblinkingly staring at the other picturesque pleasure boat in front of them. She inarticulately said: ¡°He¡¯s coming over, he¡¯s coming over, Liu clan¡¯s eldest Mister Liu Fei Xu, hurry and see, he¡¯s looking over here, oh my God, he¡¯s looking directly at me!¡­¡­¡±


    Emotionally moved, Yu Lian Hua shrieked and stood up, her arms around her stomach as she gasped for air, as if she had seen an uncommon, prehistoric species.


    Ruan Zhu couldn¡¯t help but to find it ridiculous and freely ate her pastries, lightly sipping at her strawberry juice. Towards Yu Lian Hua, she turned a deaf ear.


    Liu Fei Xu was currently in the middle of a lovely scene of blossoming plants swaying in the breeze[d]. This situation indeed satisfied his vanity. He grasped a fan in one hand and maintained a natural and poised noble smile. See, he was still exceedingly popular, unless there were eyes that did not recognize jade inlaid with gold¡­¡­He felt a little apprehensive in his mind and in a blink just so happened to see her.


    ¡°Stop the boat.¡± He shouted in a clear voice and waved his hand towards the beautiful woman aboard the other boat: ¡°Hey, Miss Qin, I hope you have been well?¡± Although he was clear about her identity, he still wasn¡¯t willing to change her appellation.


    ¡°Little Miss, you have an acquaintance.¡± The boatman stopped steering the boat and called to Ruan Zhu.


    Wherever she went she could still chance upon this Mister Peacock. Ruan Zhu had no way out.


    The two boats slowly drew closer and servants laid a board across the gap to create a makeshift passageway. Liu Fei Xu walked a few steps and cupped his hands in greeting: ¡°Miss Qin, this one hadn¡¯t thought we could coincidentally meet here. What is the point of sightseeing with just one person? How about you come over so we can all congregate in the same place?¡±


    Ruan Zhu bowed back and it could be considered as returning politeness. She really wanted to say, but I¡¯m not alone right now.


    But Yu Lian Hua was so happy she had gone a little crazy and couldn¡¯t wait any longer. Hearing Liu Fei Xu¡¯s vocal invitation, she immediately pulled Ruan Zhu up the plank.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s sleeve had been pulled so she was forced to keep up with her.


    Arriving on the other party¡¯s pleasure boat, Yu Lian Hua immediately changed her position and obediently followed behind Ruan Zhu¡¯s heels. The stylish and imposing surroundings made her not dare to breathe loudly. Although her own father was a manager of a Liu clan shop, in reality, he was pretty much the same as a servant, not subjected to flattery and not worthy of being kept in others¡¯ eyes.


    The ship¡¯s cabin was filled with young males and females. From looking at the boat, it was obvious they were all wealthy and respectable persons. There were also many musicians that plucked at their instruments and sang, forming a circle as they sat on the ground. In front of each one of them was a short table that was piled with all kinds of delicacies and other fine things. A few men and women mutually cast amorous glances at each other. It was like a social party for young men and women to break new ground and form social connections.


    ¡°Miss Qin seldom comes here so let me introduce you¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°No need for the inconvenience. If you would be so kind as to find me a place to sit, that would be fine.¡± Ruan Zhu saw that this seemed to be a place where blind dates were conducted. She was a married person, currently very happy and blessed with her life and did not want to accidentally have an affair.


    Ruan Zhu was arranged in a corner but this was what she had requested. It was very interesting to observe how the ancient people courted each other. Yu Lian Hua sat next to her and touched Ruan Zhu a bit, whispering: ¡°The man in white sitting three seats from the left really looks like someone.¡±


    ¡°Like whom?¡± Ruan Zhu looked in the direction of what she said. A man in simple yet elegant clothing sat there, his appearance not inferior to Liu Fei Xu. On his right and left were beautifully dressed women that attentively tried to offer him tea or wine. But his countenance was cold and he turned a blind eye to the women.


    ¡°The Four Great Master¡¯s number one, Lu Piao Xiang.¡± From the corner of Yu Lian Hua¡¯s mouth, drool spilled over as she stared at him with fixed eyes. A long while later, she finally sighed: ¡°What a pity that I can¡¯t sit next to him. Legend is, his guqin skill is wonderfully mysterious and he is regarded as Tian Chu¡¯s number one guqin master. There are lots of women that wish to stay by his side.¡±


    [a] ¹ÛÒô, a Buddhist bodhisattva associated with compassion. A Pretty Big Deal in East Asia (Wikipedia)


    [b] ÇØ»´°ËÑÞ, eight female courtesans that possessed great beauty and were skilled in literature, poetry, fine arts, dancing, and music (Wikipedia)


    [c] ½õÒÂÓñʳ, idiom meaning a life of luxury/extravagance


    [d] »¨Ö¦ÕÐÕ¹, idiom meaning gorgeously dressed women

 Chapter 29

    ¡°Isn¡¯t this a social party for the upper echelons of society?¡± Ruan Zhu did not quite understand. How could these arrogant and wealthy nobility be able to endure having a courtesan also attend?


    ¡°He is a musician.¡± Yu Lian Hua was not stupid and could hear Ruan Zhu¡¯s suspicions. She thought Ruan Zhu had insulted her heart¡¯s idol thus coldly rebuked her. This was actually the first time she had the courage to do this sort of thing as ordinarily, she wouldn¡¯t dare say anything that would contradict and offend this Goddess of Wealth.


    What a groupie! Ruan Zhu smiled, her red lips slightly pursed. She held a cup of fruit wine in front of her for a small sip. But if in her past life someone had dared to speak badly of Keanu Reeves, she would also be like this.


    Suddenly, a sound rang out and a woman of the ultimate beauty stood up for a few words. She should be the organizer of this party. ¡°I am indebted to everyone for honoring me in attending this banquet. I have always heard that Mister Liu¡¯s skill with the guqin is incomparable. I don¡¯t know whether it is possible for our ears to be blessed with a song?¡±


    ¡°That woman is the prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife.¡± Yu Lian Hua timely spoke up.


    Ruan Zhu almost spit out the mouthful of wine she had sipped. She remembered that when she had returned from Yun manor with her husbands, the flower thief situation had caused the entire city to be in an uproar and multiple people were stuck outside the city walls underneath the scorching sun. She had heard that the flower thief had snuck into the prefectural magistrate¡¯s bedroom when the latter had just prepared for a lovely evening, knocked him out, threw him under the bed, and then made love with his wife.


    The flower thief was truly too daring, but since he had the courage to pick flowers everywhere, he must be more outstanding than others. How could he possibly be captured?


    She sized up the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam. Her figure was rather curvy, with shiny white skin, picturesque facial structure, fluid eyes that roamed around, possessing a very lovely and moving air. On her lower half, she wore a pale red long skirt embroidered with tree peonies and a light muslin jacket on her upper body. The collar was wide open, revealing a plunging neckline, and the men¡¯s eyes all rather straightforwardly stared lustfully at her dewy cleavage.


    She was indeed a stunner, an extraordinarily beautiful woman. No wonder the flower thief would prostrate himself under her pomegranate skirt. It also made sense why the prefectural magistrate would fly into such a rage after eating such a large vat of vinegar. Ruan Zhu moved her eyes away but saw that Liu Fei Xu actually sat beside the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam.


    Upon seeing a beautiful woman, it seemed this Mister Peacock would become deranged.


    Lu Piao Xiang unhurriedly nodded his head, exposing a smile that could ruin a city: ¡°If so, a humble performance will begin.¡± Towards the two women at his side: ¡°Trouble these two personages to step aside for a bit. You will hinder my playing,¡±


    The Madam of the prefectural magistrate glanced at the two of them and they left, embarrassed.


    Lu Piao Xiang picked up a package from his side and carefully unwrapped it, revealing a simple and unadorned guqin. He unhurriedly placed the instrument horizontally on his lap as everyone watched with rapt attention. A short while later, his ten slender fingers gently stroked the strings, starting a beautiful tune.


    The sound of the guqin was as soft as moonlight, creating a poetic and picturesque landscape as if one was in a dreamlike fantasy. A peaceful and empty mountain that had just encountered rain was still silent. Limpid and clear water babbled as it trickled down from cracks in the mountain stones, gradually gathering in the spring lake in the middle of the valley. Time traveled slowly, yet also sometimes traveled fast, and the clear sound of flowing water remained¡­¡­


    The sound of the guqin changed. Women returning home from doing laundry walked through a bamboo forest, their surroundings echoing with the sound of their laughter, slightly shaking the lotus seed heads. Underneath a wide lotus leaf, a fishing boat leisurely paddled. The sound of the guqin was as clear as flowing water. The fragrant spring flowers that caused one to gasp in admiration gradually faded away, and once again, the comforting autumn scenery in the mountains emerged, forever engraved in the people¡¯s eyes.


    All who were listening to the guqin had become frozen from shock. At this moment, all eyes were glued on Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s body as they became enraptured with every note he plucked.


    The song ended. The audience sat still for a long while as if their souls had been stolen.


    Ruan Zhu sighed. In her childhood, her mother had forced her to learn the violin for a few days but compared with this person, it was as if she was blind.


    Everyone had not yet had the time to vent their emotions when a servant came inside to report, saying there was a man from the opposite pleasure boat surnamed Yun looking for his wife.


    Ruan Zhu was dazed. Yun Shi Yi had arrived! This was terrible, she had let him worry.


    She stood up from her spot and apologizing to everyone, walked towards the doorway. Unexpectedly, she was halted by the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam¡¯s words: ¡°This Madam is just silently leaving like so. Is it that my pleasure boat is worthless?¡±


    ¡°What would Madam prefer?¡± Ruan Zhu turned out and faintly smiled. Her expression remained calm and unruffled but she offered silent criticism in her heart: This great-aunt hasn¡¯t stolen your family¡¯s son, didn¡¯t swindle your boyfriend, why the hell are you interested in me?


    Liu Fei Xu lightly shook his fan, a perfect curve forming at the corner of his mouth: ¡°Madam Yuan, Miss Qin is one of my invited guests. Please look upon this humble self and let me conduct myself with integrity.¡±


    The prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam¡¯s face was gloomy and she pursed her pink lips. Her amorous peach-plum appearance coquettishly laughed gently: ¡°Today, all who have come to my pleasure boat are ones that are doubly talented. If this Madam has an ability that can let us be convinced of her talents, then she can freely leave. But if she doesn¡¯t, it is a blasphemy on us and I am afraid she will have to kowtow in apology before she can leave.¡±


    The last sentence was coldly spit out, not leaving the slightest room for the other party.


    Ruan Zhu was stuck in a difficult position. Regarding talents, she had been pressured by her mother when she was still alive to learn a few skills. She could play ¡®The Butterfly Lovers¡¯[a] on the violin, but she feared if they were to hear her play, they would develop heart disease. Furthermore, violins didn¡¯t exist in this era. As for dancing, she had studied it for a few years and had with great difficulty entered the sixth level. Unfortunately, this body that she had transmigrated into was too delicate. If she exerted too much strength, she¡¯d probably strain her back. Calligraphy, she had also learned for a few years but had stopped after entering high school. But calligraphy wasn¡¯t considered a talent in the ancient eras, right? And she also feared that her handwriting would be even worse than the children in this era.


    Liu Fei Xu had originally wanted to say more to cover for her but stopped after hearing the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam¡¯s suggestion. He was also really curious as to what abilities and talents Ruan Zhu had. If they were average, he could persuade himself to discard the longing he had for her. Honestly speaking, he felt he had no sense of honor whenever he was with her.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s bright eyes slightly trembled: ¡°The song that Mister Lu just played was like running water between mountains, with the ability to cleanse and refresh others. From this scene that he created, I have composed a poem. Why not I recite it for these Madams and Misters to hear?¡±


    The pretty mouth of the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam was twisted in a sneer: ¡°I hadn¡¯t thought you actually had the talent of improvising poems. Although it¡¯s rare, but it¡¯s not like this skill doesn¡¯t exist. I think I would like to hear it. If it manages to rhyme, I¡¯ll let you leave. If it is a good poem that is hard to come by, I¡¯ll send you off with one hundred taels of gold.¡±


    Turning her head, she ordered servants to take out and place ten gold bars on the table. The glistening yellow gold bars were extremely eye catching, but who among the guests were not wealthy in their own right? Thus, the gold bars were not placed in anyone¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°This here is ten gold bars, adding to one hundred taels of gold. If you have the ability, you can take them. If you don¡¯t, you will kowtow in apology.¡± The prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam faintly sneered.


    Lu Piao Xiang was also surprised. Someone had actually composed a poem based off of his playing? His clear eyes were full of curiosity and interest.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were like water. Sweetly smiling, she opened her mouth, a distinct and soft voice resembling gems of wisdom falling onto the ground:


    ¡°Serene hills emerge fresh after the rain;


    The Autumn night air turns cool once again.


    The bright Moon shines in between the pine tree;


    Over the rocks, the clear spring water runs free.


    Sounds of home-coming wash-maids heard through bamboos;


    Come fishing boats¨Cthe lotus, pushing through.


    Let the Spring flowers wither and be gone¨C


    For you, O my friend, may choose to stay on.¡±


    Translation by Alan Ma and Frank Yue[b]


    Finished, she softly turned around to leave without a single glance at the table on which the gold bars were laid. Her movements were relaxed and her lake-blue skirt drifted around her, making it seem as if she was floating away.


    The gold. Ah, she really cherished and wanted it, but she couldn¡¯t let others see that. In any case, if she relied on the knowledge in her head, then she would be able to earn even more than that one day in the future.


    Yu Lian Hua saw that her pillar had left and thinking that there would be no meaning in staying, hastily chased after Ruan Zhu.


    Apart from their receding footsteps, not a single sound could be heard in the pleasure boat¡¯s cabin. But a while later, noise poured forth, resembling the same clamor that could be heard at an outdoor market. They continuously recited parts of the poem that the lady had just recited¨Cone person saying one line, another saying the next line to complete it.


    After a few minutes, a young man shouted out loudly: ¡°I have transcribed it. You guys listen to see if it¡¯s right? Serene hills emerge fresh after the rain; The Autumn night air turns cool once again. The bright Moon shines in between the pine tree; Over the rocks, the clear spring water runs free¡­¡­¡°


    Lu Piao Xiang silently mouthed one line after another, his clear and sonorous eyes flashing with emotion. He thought that the poem precisely captured the essence of his piece. In a split second, he felt as if he had met his kindred soul and his emotions bubbled forth.


    ¡°Madam Yuan, it seems that you¡¯ll have to deliver these one hundred taels of gold to avoid others saying Madam goes back on her word.¡± Liu Fei Xu faintly said, the corner of his mouth was lifted in a way that resembled a sneer but was not quite one.


    The prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife declined to respond, her face a block of ice.


    Ruan Zhu walked out of the pleasure boat, wiping at the sweat that had formed on her forehead. That ancient wife of the government official was too scary. She didn¡¯t know when exactly she had stepped on the tail of her arrogance?


    Several days earlier, she had been browsing through a history book and discovered that although Wang Wei was born before Tian Chu had been founded, he had been stabbed to death at twenty years of age after offending the then sixteen years old Great Ancestor, Xuanyuan Ming. This had occurred during the ninth year of the Kaiyuan era in the Tang dynasty, causing the majority of Wang Wei¡¯s work, considered to be one of his generation¡¯s best, to not exist. It was truly a pity, but her plagiarism could be considered as acting in the interests of expanding the literary developments of this country.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Ruan Zhu came to the bow of the ship and saw an upright and tall man underneath the sunlight. A light cyan paozi fluttered with the wind and a silk belt bound his jet-black hair on the top of his head. His skin was bronzed, his facial features were handsome and sharp like a knife. Such an imposing and impressive appearance¨Ctall and striking¨Cadded to the steady and calm air his entire body radiated, like the temperament of a mountain.


    One kind of paozi. It means ¡®Chinese-style gown¡¯ so there¡¯s multiple versions over all these years.


    She stepped onto the wooden board that connected the two boats. It had merely been just a while, but she threw herself at him and he spread open his arms to catch her, neatly wrapping her into his embrace.


    ¡°Did you have fun?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi princess carried her into their rented pleasure boat. Closing the cabin door, he blocked the outside world from entering.


    Seeing that no one had bothered to care about her, Yu Lian Hua pathetically called a small boat over to take her back to shore.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, I seem to have offended the wife of the prefectural magistrate.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi had placed Ruan Zhu on top of the finely embroidered bed. Thinking about what had just occurred, she couldn¡¯t help but become anxious. That prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife was truly too bored. She had just transmigrated not too long ago and had no relations with the other. No matter how she thought, this dislike was an unfathomable mystery.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Yun Shi Yi was absentminded. Every time he was alone with her, he would impulsively desire her. Thinking about how he would have to head south in a few days for work, he became even more reluctant to part from her.


    Ruan Zhu spoke about all that had happened, even mentioning how she had previously met Liu Fei Xu, but omitted the part where she had been harassed. She frowned: ¡°I really don¡¯t comprehend. That government Madam doesn¡¯t seem to have any defects and her mind and vigor is also normal. Why on earth would she make it difficult for me?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi was intelligent and roughly understand about 80-90% of the reason after listening to all that she had said. He was pensive. Though giving his wife additional secondary husbands was a compulsory course of events, but if those concubines were not seen and vetted by him, and they took away all of her attention, what would be the meaning of continuing to live?


    [a] Áº×£, short for ÁºÉ½²®ÓëףӢ̨. A Chinese legend about a tragic love story of a pair of lovers that has been adapted into an orchestral version that features a solo violin and also into a version that uses traditional Chinese instruments. (Wikis on novel and orchestra version; YouTubes of standard orchestra with solo violin and traditional Chinese orchestra with solo erhu)


    [b] ɽ¾ÓÇïêÔ, Life in the Mountains on an Autumn Evening, written by Íõ¾S (Wang Wei). Translation taken from (here).

 Chapter 30

    ¡°What is it?¡± Ruan Zhu was a bit baffled. ¡°Do you have something that is inconvenient to say to me?¡±


    ¡°It is nothing.¡± Yun Shi Yi dismissed his mood with one phrase. She hadn¡¯t yet realized it so he wouldn¡¯t say it.


    Ruan Zhu blinked her eyes. Had she unintentionally said something that had upset him? She frowned as she deeply pondered for a while¡­¡­Opening her arms, she tightly hugged him: ¡°That Mister Peacock is both fickle and unlikable, with the stench of a playboy. All day long he adorns himself like a male peacock strutting around, showing off his plumage. There¡¯s not nearly enough time for me to dislike him, so you better not misunderstand. I have no relationship with him.¡±


    One was very pure, one was not a red apricot tree leaning over the garden wall[a]. One has not made you into a cuckold, you have to believe this one.


    It was as if Yun Shi Yi had heard the thoughts running through her mind. He slowly lowered his head, the corner of his mouth slightly rising: ¡°Wife, let¡¯s stay on the boat tonight and not return. We can find a harbor to dock the boat.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never dwelled in a boat before. Staying here overnight surely must be a unique experience.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi gently kissed her neck, his two hands spreading her collar on her chest open. Two soft mounds promptly bounced out, dazzling his eyes. No matter how many times he saw her bare body, he still felt as if he had been rendered silly and driven mad.


    He lowered his head, sucking on a tempting fruit bud. Only thinking that this mouthful was extremely fragrant and delicious, he couldn¡¯t help but to deepen his action. His other hand grabbed her other peak, gently kneading. Under his touch, her ** began to harden, and she felt limp starting from her **, spreading throughout her entire body. Th sensation increased in strength and the quivering electric current burst into a ball of fire, tormenting all of her nerves.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes were red and hazy with desire. He gasped for breath and stood up suddenly. His hands slightly trembled as he pushed aside the remaining clothes on the woman underneath him¡­¡­


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­Eldest Cousin¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s cheeks were flushed, red lips slightly parted, spilling out hot breaths. Her watery eyes were sparkling and cloudy. With starry eyes half closed, she indulged in the pleasure from the man¡¯s careful caresses.


    ¡°Wife, don¡¯t call me ¡®Eldest Cousin¡¯. You should call me ¡®Husband Lord¡¯. At least at these moments, I like to hear¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Husband Lord, Zhu Zhu¡¯s Husband Lord.¡± Ruan Zhu responded to his passion, softly speaking the words of affection that made him happy.


    Her gentle words and voice was like a spring breeze that caressed his face and the man¡¯s eyes became even darker like a bottomless well of water. She saw a completely nude woman reflected in his black eyes and her cheeks unconsciously turned red.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, call me me just like that. In the future, you also have to address me this way.¡± He let go of the bud in his mouth and coaxed her in a low voice: ¡°Wife, Wife, this husband begs you one thing¨CNo matter how many secondary husbands and other concubines you have in the future, you have to remember that Shi Yi is forever your number one.¡±


    Ruan Zhu held his head against her chest, gazing at him with deep love: ¡°Silly, I only have you in my heart. What would I want all of those secondary husbands and concubines for?¡± It wasn¡¯t like she was always in heat. She already had a hard time handling these two brothers. Wouldn¡¯t she be fucked to death with even more?


    Yun Shi Yi discarded the clothes that restricted his body, and looked at her. Their bare skin was touching, and her soft and petite body was enveloped in his own lofty and well-built figure. He lightly sighed in contentment: ¡°My wife is actually this beautiful¡­¡­¡±


    His hands had already wreaked havoc on her two tender mounds. Resting one hand between her legs, he gently rubbed back and forth, fingers teasing as they explored her rose petals and entered: ¡°You¡¯re so delicate right here. The color is such a pale pink and the taste is also very delicious¡­¡­¡±


    She recalled that they had both kissed each others¡¯ secret areas. Naturally, it was a sort of stimulation that could send them flying into the Heavens.


    She spread open her legs, welcoming his fingers, allowing them to plunge even deeper inside. Under his provocation, her entire body felt unspeakably comfortable¡­¡­Eyes half closed, she was underneath a layer of haze, the sensitivity of her body becoming abnormally high.


    ¡°Wu¡­¡­¡± She licked and kissed his perfectly solid chest. Her teeth gently grazed a small red bean, lightly grinding it as she took in the scent that was so characteristically male.


    ¡°Wife, this husband wants to eat you out.¡± He suddenly stood up from her body. Grabbing her two delicate ankles, he yanked them apart and the beautiful area that classified one as a female was exposed right in front of his eyes. His rationality flew beyond the topmost clouds[b]. Cupping her snowy white and tender buttocks, his head lowered, and he really ate her out, ah¡­¡­


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­¡± She felt as if an impatient fire was burning across her skin. Her charming face was covered with a faint red glow, her breathing was heavy and rushed. The inside of her thigh as well as her derriere started to tingle, her chest also began to swell and the area that was under his attack unceasingly trembled. Very quickly, her entire body became hot and sweet-smelling perspiration dripped down as the exquisite sensation spread throughout her entirely, impossible to restrain.


    ¡°Ah, ah!¡­¡­¡± She suddenly shrieked. She was drowning in the ecstasy that flowed through her entire body. Her back arched as she spasmed, her toes even curling up.


    ¡°Darling, did you like that?¡±


    He wanted her to remember that he had accorded her the most exquisite pleasure, because in a few days, he had to head south for a business trip and it would be a long time before he could see her again. He was tormented by longing, but he was more afraid that when they finally met again, her current love would have become diluted.


    ¡°You¡¯re really crazy, Husband Lord.¡± She hadn¡¯t yet recovered from the earlier passion and was still gasping for air, still faintly quivering. ¡°But I really liked it.¡±


    How had she forgotten? He was Yun Shi Wei¡¯s older brother. The same blood flowed through their veins so they both had wild and dedicated sides to them.


    ¡°Wife, one more time.¡± He kissed her lips, his mouth still full of her sweet taste. He returned all of it to her by sucking on her little tongue and dripping his saliva into her mouth.


    She involuntarily swallowed and when he once again ravaged her chest, all of her nerves came alive with bliss from being provoked. She once again quivered like a plucked string as ecstasy overwhelmed her.


    He turned her over and held her from behind.


    Among beautiful feelings and unusually strong stimulation, the man and the woman were linked at the most sensitive area, flying towards the most blessed happiness and pleasure in life.


    Outside the cabin sat two lonely figures. From a narrow crack through the windows, one could clearly hear the sound of the red muslin curtains fluttering and occasionally, hear a few faint fragments of a woman¡¯s alluring moans and a man¡¯s low roar. When the thin red muslin curtains floated upwards, one could see two intertwined silhouettes in the deepest part of the room.


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing sat on the deck, their faces flushed a deep red as a fervent fire gradually rose up from their underbelly. Between their hips, there was something that itched terribly and kept growing larger and firmer. But it was rigidly held in place by their metal chastity belts and cruelly suppressed.


    They were both young, vigorous males and have had their uncontrollable factor inhibited by a chastity belt since they were twelve years old. As such, they have never experienced the relationship possible between a man and a woman, but they had always hoped that sooner or later, there would be one day when they could offer their most perfect aspect of themselves to their most dearest Master.


    They devoutly preserved their chastity for their beloved and they did not regret doing so.


    Nuan Chun stood up, his footsteps somewhat unsteady: ¡°The time is no longer early. I will go prepare the evening meal.¡±


    Nuan Qing also stood up, his chest slightly moving up and down. Placing his hand on top, he gasped for air: ¡°I¡¯ll go carry the water.¡±


    Inside and outside the pleasure boat¡¯s cabin, there were two different worlds. Some people were happy, basking in pleasure, while some people were desolate, enduring loneliness with difficulty.


    [a] ºìÐÓ³öǽ, idiom meaning wife having an illicit lover


    [b] ¾ÅÏöÔÆÍâ, idiom meaning unimaginably far away

 Chapter 31

    Glossary


    [1] Ķ | mu | unit of area equal to one-fifteenth of a hectare


    Àï | li |unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    The early morning atmosphere was serene and refreshing, and the sunshine bathed the crystalline water of the Lan River in sparkling gold. Boats of various sizes sailed on the river, to and fro, the scene causing one to feel heart untroubled, spirit pleased[a].


    Ruan Zhu leaned on the railing. Feeling her waist become tight, she could feel her sweetheart¡¯s breath without turning her head. She lightly smiled: ¡°In the future when I am rich, I¡¯ll build a large garden on the shore of Lan River. Inside, I¡¯ll plant Chinese parasol trees and xiangfei bamboo[b]. There will be all kinds of beautiful flowers; whatever exists, I¡¯ll plant. It will be a garden with pavilions, fake mountains, and ponds. If I¡¯m in a good mood, I¡¯ll take the children out of the noisy city and stroll around. And then I¡¯ll buy a large and beautiful ship and together with you and the children, we can go sightseeing as much as we like along the river. Following the river, wherever we want to go, we can go.¡±


    This era¡¯s garden landscapes were really primitive as the development of Chinese gardens expanded during the Song dynasty and reached its peak during the Ming and Qing dynasties. If she wants to set up a garden, she could just simply copy the famous gardens that appeared in later generations¨CLion Grove Garden, Geyuan Garden, The Humble Administrator¡¯s Garden, the Mountain Villa with Embracing Beauty[c]¡­¡­If she just picks for the essences of each garden, perhaps later she might pass as a master of landscaping and her name, Ruan Zhu, may even be recorded in the history books of Tian Chu.


    ʨ×ÓÁÖ | Lion¡¯s Grove Garden


    ¸öÔ° | Geyuan Garden


    ×¾ÕþÔ° | Humble Administrator¡¯s Garden


    »·Ðãɽׯ | Mountain Villa with Embracing Beauty


    Ruan Zhu elatedly daydreamed for a while before gloomily crashing back down. In her past life, she had never gone out on a trip before. Don¡¯t mention gardens, she wasn¡¯t even aware of what direction the doors of these imperial gardens opened towards. This plagiarism attempt was truly anticlimactic.


    But~ she had seen information about them on the Internet. Just let her think it over!


    Yun Shi Yi placed his head next to her soft white neck, a smiling expression in his eyes: ¡°If you like it, why wait until the future? I can quickly have a large garden built for you.¡±


    The land outside of the city walls were of little value, only about three to five taels of silver per each mu[1]. Buying some land to construct a flower garden was not much money either. If she liked it, he would build one for her after he settled the matters with the wood batch from the South.


    His consideration was very kind, but how could he know that Ruan Zhu did not want to construct a regular garden? Just the manpower and materials alone would use quite a lot of money. The required taihu stones would also have to be transported from Jiangnan, and the roughly one thousand li round trip would also have an astronomical freight fee.


    Taihu stones in Lion¡¯s Grove Garden


    Historical areas of Jiangnan


    Ruan Zhu did not respond as she wanted to construct the garden using money she had personally earned.


    For the entire day, the young couple stayed on the pleasure boat as it drifted along with the current directly heading downstream. They floated over ten li out before instructing the boatman to steer back. By the time they arrived on shore and prepared to return home, it was almost dusk. Fortunately, they were not far from the city gates. With masters and servants each riding in their respective carriages, they rushed home. The city gates had not yet closed, and entering the city, they unexpectedly ran into Yun Shi Wei.


    The young fellow walked by the side of the road, shirtless. His coppery skin was shiny and the bulging muscles on his chest were firm and compact, resembling the solidness of stone. The Madams and young maidens passing by all looked at him with burning eyes. After seeing him, all of them rubbed their eyes and without exception, continued to stare at him.


    He did not care for their attention and his arrogant expression was one of ¡®look if ya wanna look, this father is walking this father¡¯s path¡®. Carrying his clothes on his shoulder as he moved along with the crowd of people returning home, he was extremely eye-catching as he was taller than others by a head.


    Ruan Zhu had been sitting by the window, looking outside at the view and saw him in a glance. ¡°Second Cousin!¡± She extended and waved an arm in his direction. He was not a fool and saw her from the corner of his eye. Without waiting for the carriage to stop, he jerked open the carriage door as quick as lightning and in one leap, entered the carriage.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, where did you go these past two days, causing me to be the only one thrown away at home, having to blankly stare at the wall everyday?¡± Yun Shi Wei complained as if Ruan Zhu had made an enormous fault. ¡°Both of you ignore me and pretend I don¡¯t exist. In both your eyes, aren¡¯t I just a dispensable secondary husband? Whether I¡¯m missing or dead, no one will care.¡±


    That phrase he said¨Cmissing or dead¡­¡­The rather large man was throwing a tantrum quite like how a child would.


    Yun Shi Yi knew his little brother¡¯s temperament. After he complains for a while, he¡¯ll cease to remember it. Sending a sneer his way, Yun Shi Yi felt disinclined to pay further attention to him.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart was soft and she felt that she was in the wrong. Moving closer to him, she lightly pulled on his thick and solid shoulder that was covered with sweat. This person sweated an unusual amount, unlike how Yun Shi Yi was always fresh and clean. ¡°Second Cousin, I bought a very fresh carp. When we arrive home, I¡¯ll have Nuan Qing make a soup for you to supplement your body.¡±


    Unlike the cultivated fish farms of the future that all had an earthy and fishy taste, this was a very fresh and organic product from Lan River that did not contain any contaminates. Ruan Zhu fell in love with this taste after eating this fresh fish a few times and bought several from the fishermen that operated on Lan River. Those fish were currently in the carriage behind where Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing were.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like eating fish.¡± In actuality, it wasn¡¯t that he disliked eating fish; rather, he disliked how inconvenient the fish bones were. He liked eating meat and could eat it in big bites. It was completely different with how one had to slowly and painstakingly eat fish.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Second Cousin, I¡¯ll help you pick out the bones so you can eat with big bites and won¡¯t have to worry about the bones blocking your throat.¡± They¡¯ve been together for so long now so how could she not understand this guy¡¯s personality?


    ¡°You said it, so you must not forget.¡± The important thing was that he could enjoy her service, heh heh¡­¡­Yun Shi Wei was quick to anger and quick to cool down. In one move of his arm, he held Ruan Zhu and placed her on his thigh, happily saying: ¡°Zhu Zhu, I¡¯ve missed you to death during these two days when I couldn¡¯t see you. I don¡¯t care, you have to sleep with me tonight.¡±


    Upon hearing that she had to accompany him tonight, Ruan Zhu became miserable. This guy¡¯s energy was astonishing with an insatiable appetite, and every time was painful. Some people have said that men can do it seven times a night and their words were not false. ¡°Sleeping with you is fine, but you are not allowed to move your hands and feet. After we eat, you have to actually sleep.¡±


    ¡°Then what would be the point?¡± Yun Shi Wei was bewildered.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t agree, then just forget it. You can sleep in your own courtyard.¡± She was actually rather looking forward to it.


    Yun Shi Wei thought about it for a while, worriedly grabbing at his hair. He responded angrily: ¡°If you don¡¯t want me to touch, I won¡¯t touch. After all, it¡¯s not like this hasn¡¯t happened before. But you have to sleep in my quilt. If you don¡¯t agree, I¡¯ll keep annoying you. Even if I die, I won¡¯t leave.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei had unwillingly conceded and Ruan Zhu felt anxious in her heart. Sighing: ¡°Okay then, we¡¯ll do it like you said.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei immediately exposed a delighted smile. Elated, he once again started being disobedient. Pulling apart her lapel, her ample peaks popped out. He grabbed her delicate shoulders, shaking her back and forth, making her two breasts jiggle and dance around.


    Angered, Ruan Zhu asked him: ¡°Do you have a problem with your brain?¡±


    She hadn¡¯t yet discovered that her originally spotless clothing had been darkened in a few places by him. His hands were as filthy as if they had just picked up charcoal. He had also not noticed and used his hands to each cup a breast. Her snowy and tender peaks at once turned into two burnt steamed buns.


    ¡°Second Cousin, let go of me!¡± Ruan Zhu cried out in fright, her two hands moving to randomly whack at his face. ¡°You¡¯re so dirty and stinky, quickly let go of me!¡±


    ¡°Shi Wei, what the hell are you doing?¡± Yun Shi Yi had been thinking about the matter in the South that would occur in two days. Hearing a cry of fear made him realize that his brother had once again done something to cause a disturbance. Extending his arms, he reclaimed Ruan Zhu and placed her on his own lap. He picked up a towel from a table next to him and poured some water from the kettle on it. Thinking a bit, he pushed aside his own lapel and placed the moist towel on his chest for a while to warm it up before using the now-warm towel to wipe the areas that Yun Shi Wei had dirtied.


    Ruan Zhu allowed him to wipe her clean, her heart faintly trembling. Tears involuntarily formed at the corners of her eyes and slowly dripped down. She buried her face in his chest.


    ¡°Wife, don¡¯t cry. This husband vows to never let Shi Wei bully you again.¡± Yun Shi Yi rubbed her back, using a gentle voice to console her.


    Ruan Zhu shook her head and raised it, smiling sweetly: ¡°Eldest Cousin¡­¡­Husband Lord, I¡¯m all right. Second Cousin is very good, I don¡¯t blame him.¡±


    They were both very good and she was very content. She was not miserable¨Cshe had been moved by his actions. In her previous life, she had been alone ever since her mother had died. Although she wasn¡¯t an orphan, but in actuality, she wasn¡¯t much different from one and could even be said to be even more pathetic. She could never forget the scene from before her death¡­¡­


    Her tears dripped down again. Seeing Yun Shi Yi¡¯s doubtful expression, she smiled again, revealing her two shallow dimples, the emotions in her tear-filled eyes moving others.


    Yun Shi Yi stroked her nose with a fingertip: ¡°What are you doing, crying and smiling? Are your tears of such little value?¡±


    The sound of his words had yet to dissipate when she suddenly raised her head and kissed him, inserting her little tongue, searching for the base of his tongue as she swirled around it.


    Yun Shi Yi was incredibly surprised as she rarely took the initiative like this. But he had been provoked by her enthusiasm and began to reciprocate.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, there¡¯s also me¡­¡­¡± Yun Shi Yi was aggrieved. He wanted to go over but didn¡¯t dare as he feared doing so would make her cry like earlier. Looking at his own black and dirty hands, he angrily wiped them on his pants. But lifting them up for a look, they had instead gotten even dirtier. It turned out his pants were even dustier than his hands.


    Ruan Zhu had kissed Yun Shi Yi enough and buried her head again in his chest as she gasped for air. After a while, she turned her head and saw Yun Shi Wei¡¯s angry appearance and couldn¡¯t help but smile. Thinking for a bit, she turned around and gave Yun Shi Wei a dazzling smile.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, you don¡¯t blame me any longer?¡± Yun Shi Wei was completely flabbergasted by her attitude and scratched his head.


    Yet he saw Ruan Zhu extend her hand into his pants and stroke his little brother, slowly tormenting it. His shaft quickly swelled and stood up at the fastest speed. Her one little hand was simply not enough to grasp all of it.


    ¡°Two hands, Spouse, use two hands, hurry¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Wei resented that his pants were in the way and simply pulled them down to his knees, grabbing her other hand to place on top of his member. He knew Yun Shi Yi was gazing at him with endless ridicule but the latter had restrained himself well and only the smiling corners of his mouth betrayed his expression.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s left hand teased his two globes while her right hand gripped his solid rod, stroking it up and down. She sped up her movements, attentively relieving the passion that he had endured for so long.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s eyes were red and he had difficulty gasping for air. His mouth and belly continuously moved up and down and hoarse groans issued from his throat. In the midst of his torment came a pleasure that was hard to define as his member twitched in response to the fast up and down movements of the little hand. Unable to restrain himself, he stretched his dirty wolf claws into her lapel. Her soft peaks were immediately drowned in the ** that came over. His buttocks twitching at high speed, he suddenly bellowed: ¡°Spouse, faster¡­¡­even faster¡­¡­ah¡­¡­¡± Body trembling, the boiling liquid that had been restrained these past few days inside his body finally spurted out.


    Ruan Zhu crawled up from his body, both hands extremely sore and aching.


    Yun Shi Yi picked her up into his lap. Picking up a towel, he considerately wiped her **-stained little hands clean before throwing the towel away. His fingers then gently kneaded the acupuncture points in her hands to unblock the blood vessels.


    She sat on his lap like a little bird relying on people. Because of their earlier actions, her clothes had gotten dirty again and Yun Shi Yi good-temperedly fixed her appearance once more, finding a clean set of clothes from their parceled belongings for her to change into.


    ¡°Spouse, your appearance when you change clothes is really wonderful.¡± Yun Shi Wei had tidied himself up and lecherously stared at her, moving forward to take advantage of her body.


    Ruan Zhu sat between them, feeling completely blissful. She must carefully cherish this life. The Heavens had given her another chance at life either out of pity or out of favor, so the things she had lost before or the things she never had, she would earn double that amount in this life. One should not live in the shadow of the past.


    ¡°Second Cousin, where did you go to come back all covered in dust?¡± Ruan Zhu was very curious. Recently, this guy left early and returned late all stinky. Could it be that he had transmigrated into the illegal Shanxi brickyards and was working there?[d]


    Yun Shi Wei laughed twice heh heh, a trace of awkwardness found in his smile: ¡°Women don¡¯t need to ask too much about men¡¯s matters. In brief, there is Second Brother to support you. I won¡¯t let you starve.¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought, These were words he could say to her?


    Merely a secondary husband, what right did he have to fling her aside? Which one of her mother-in-law¡¯s concubines were not obedient? If they committed the slightest mistake, they would go kneel in the courtyard. Fifth Father Zhao kneeled the entire morning because of the situation with Hai¡¯er. Did Yun Shi Wei borrow this courage from the Heavens?


    ¡°You¡¯re asking for a beating, aren¡¯t you? Tonight, go sleep in your own courtyard.¡± Ruan Zhu picked up the folding fan on the side table and whacked it in the direction of his forehead.


    ¡°Spouse, don¡¯t hit. I was wrong.¡± Yun Shi Wei immediately lowered his head as he begged for forgiveness.


    Ruan Zhu put down the folding fan and turned her head towards Yun Shi Yi: ¡°Eldest Cousin, do you know what he¡¯s been doing?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi cleared his throat. He glanced at his brother in ridicule before responding to Ruan Zhu: ¡°He goes to the docks every day to haul cargo. Saying he wants to raise you and buy you some jewelry.¡±


    ¡°Haul cargo?¡± Ruan Zhu stared at Yun Shi Wei as if she was staring at a rare animal. Hauling sacks was something a rich second generation ought to do? Which rich family¡¯s son would go become a dock worker? She had seen ¡°Golden Faith¡± in her past life where a just-graduated college student was fishing in the toilets and had been bragged by Zhu Jun into being a spiritual model. Very quickly, this matter had been majorly criticized on the Internet. In the spiritual culture, it was possible to fish out thirteen incense sticks from a toilet?[e]


    Yun Shi Wei, were you doing this?


    She snorted. In any case, he was still a child that came from a large clan. Although he wasn¡¯t very well-read but he was awfully brilliant at martial arts. His parents and older brother were all rich and powerful people, and their method of doing business meant they could casually take an idea and run with it.


    Well, okay, she didn¡¯t want to discriminate against dock workers. There was no distinction between high and low statuses in revolutionary work, only that the division of labor was not the same. Being a dock worker was also fine, fishing out of toilets was whatever, as all of it was to ¡®Serve the People!¡¯[f]


    Fortunately, he hadn¡¯t gone fishing in a toilet! Ruan Zhu lamented. Otherwise, she would have kicked him away and never let him back on her bed.


    Yun Shi Wei flew into a rage out of humiliation: ¡°I didn¡¯t haul sacks today, I carried stones.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi gave a puchi of laughter. Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t want to care about that one anymore and remained in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s embrace, but smiled so that her eyes became crescents.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    The three married people continued chatting until they arrived home, which just so happened to be time for the lanterns to be lighted.


    Heating a large vat of water, the three of them went to wash their exhaustion away. During this time, Yun Shi Wei was very obedient¨Cperhaps because he had been satisfied in the carriage¨Cand did not harass Ruan Zhu.


    Ruan Zhu did not fulfill her promise to the end. After Yun Shi Wei fell fast asleep, she crawled out of his blankets and squeezed inside Yun Shi Yi¡¯s quilt. Leaning on his warm chest, she contently entered the land of dreams.


    But Yun Shi Yi couldn¡¯t sleep. There was only one more day before he had to leave. How should he break it to her? This time, his absence would be rather long. An impulse rushed out of his heart¨Cforget it, he¡¯ll just let that money be squandered! Immediately, he became ashamed of his thoughts. This family needed him to support it and in the future, his child would also rely on this coin to properly live. He had to focus on making money for the expansion of their household.


    [a] ÐÄ¿õÉñâù, idiom meaning carefree and relaxed


    [b] ÏæåúÖñ, famous Chinese ornamental bamboo that has characteristic purple-brown spots (Image)


    [c] ʨ×ÓÁÖ Lion¡¯s Grove Garden, located in Suzhou, Jiangsu; famous for its large labyrinthe of taihu stones that resemble lions (Wikipedia; Virtual Tour with Pictures) | ¸öÔ° Geyuan Garden, located in Yangzhou, Jiangsu; famous for its seasonal rock gardens (Wikipedia) | ×¾ÕþÔ° Humble Administrator¡¯s Garden, located in Suzhou, Jiangsu; largest garden in Suzhou that focuses on water (Wikipedia; Virtual Tour with Pictures) | »·Ðãɽׯ Mountain Villa with Embracing Beauty, located in Suzhou, Jiangsu; small, linear garden with three main elements¨Ca grotto, a pool, and a main hall (Wikipedia; Virtual Tour with Pictures)


    [d] Reference to the 2007 illegal brickyard slave scandal that occurred in Shanxi, China. (Wikipedia)


    [e] Á÷½ðËêÔÂ, Golden Faith, a Hong Kong film about money laundering and a selfless hero (Wikipedia); Zhu Jun is a famous Chinese Host (Wikipedia). I had the hardest time translating this part because I¡¯ve never seen the movie nor do I know of Zhu Jun, so if anything¡¯s wrong, feel free to let me know and I¡¯ll correct it.


    [f] ΪÈËÃñ·þÎñ, CCP (Chinese Communist Party) slogan and unofficial motto of China; comes from a Mao Zedong speech (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 32

    Early the next morning, Yun Shi Yi took Ruan Zhu to Tian Yi Pavilion to play. Since the day they wed, he hadn¡¯t yet had the chance to take her to see his business that was in actuality, hers. Everything that he owned was hers, including his very person. There was nothing for him to selfishly conceal.


    A magnificent three-storied building grandly stood on the most prosperous commercial street in Lan Zhou. There was a plaque above the entryway bearing the three words ¡®Tian Yi Pavilion¡¯ in gold lettering against the black background.


    Ruan Zhu followed Yun Shi Yi inside and broadly surveyed her surroundings/the inside. They were in a lounge with an area of several hundred square meters and greeted with a floor completely paved with celadon brick tiles.


    On both sides of the entrance stood two rows of neatly dressed, beautiful young men that offered amiable smiles as they bowed in greeting to each guest. With the arrival of each patron, one of the men would immediately step forward and lead the way.


    Under Yun Shi Yi¡¯s guidance, Ruan Zhu went on a tour around the place.


    Right beside the main reception hall was a banquet area used to conduct dinner parties or feasts. There were also several private rooms that offered guests the option of having a quiet meal or to leisurely relax. The second and third floors provided accommodations. All of the articles in use were tastefully selected, from the large decorations such as paintings and furniture, to the smaller items such as cups, dishes, and other utensils. Everything was luxurious and chic but did not lose their elegance.


    Yun Shi Yi led Ruan Zhu into his office and had her sit on a red sandalwood couch engraved with the scene of the Eight Immortals crossing the sea.[a] She contentedly kicked her legs back and forth. Her hubby was so wealthy. Using terms from her past life, he should be someone with a net worth of several hundred million dollars, right? Just this red sandalwood couch bed alone would be considered a top-grade treasured antique in the future. She didn¡¯t know how many collectors would be green with envy, hmm?


    She couldn¡¯t help but to think of the frame bed in his Wutong Courtyard in the Yun manor. That one was also made of red sandalwood. If that bed could be relocated to their Yun residence in the city, it would be amazing. Lying down next to her hubby on that priceless bed every night was also a kind of spiritual pleasure.


    Red sandalwood had been eradicated in China as early as the Ming dynasty. The emperor had then greedily set his sights on Southeast Asia and assigned people to cross the ocean to purchase some. Not long after, the supply of red sandalwood trees there had also basically been exhausted.


    As one can imagine, red sandalwood is extremely precious.


    Ruan Zhu originally did not know about red sandalwood. But in college, one of her classmate¡¯s families and she had gone to their house as a guest. Her friend had wanted to flaunt the item and had said that the box had been passed down in her family over a dozen generations and was more precious than one could ever imagine.


    Yun Shi Yi came over with an elaborate case that was one chi[1] long and half a chi wide. The box was delicately engraved, the knife-work as fine as hair. It obviously had not been dyed but there were beautiful green stripes spread throughout the case. With one touch, one¡¯s hand would slide against the glossy exterior, and a wisp of a serene aroma wafted into her nose. In a glance, it was obvious that this was a rare curio.


    ¡°This is green sandalwood.¡±


    ¡°Green sandalwood?¡± Ruan Zhu was startled. She hadn¡¯t known that this sort of tree could also be found in China as she had always thought it only grew in the Americas.


    Yun Shi Yi held a gold key and inserted it into the gold lock on top. Opening the lid, he took out a hefty stack of documents and offered it to her. Taking the documents, she realized they were house deeds, land deeds, and silver banknotes worth an exorbitant amount. Looking at these things that flaunted such a large amount of assets caused her to become dizzy.


    ¡°Hubby¡­¡­no¡­¡­Husband Lord.¡± Ruan Zhu stuttered. ¡°You indeed are wealthy.¡±


    ¡°All of those things are now yours.¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡± Ruan Zhu staggered. No way, right? Eldest Cousin, you can¡¯t scare me like this. My weak heart can¡¯t take it. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Despite knowing this era had the custom of the wife managing all of her husbands¡¯ assets and property, she had still been frightened. This wasn¡¯t several hundred taels where she might as well accept just because one told her accept. What he was offering was priceless and something that she would not be able to completely use up even over a dozen lifetimes. This person had a problem with his brain.


    ¡°Everything that I own is yours, including my own person. How can these few assets compare?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡­no, absolutely out of the question.¡± Ruan Zhu groaned. The other was clearly working hard to make money. For her to take control of everything without lifting a single muscle, that was completely unfair.


    ¡°You don¡¯t like it?¡± Disappointment shone in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes. ¡°Wife, this husband thought you would have been happy.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not it, that¡¯s not it.¡± Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t know what she should say in this situation and impatiently got up from the couch, throwing herself into his arms. ¡°Giving me your entire foundation that you had so painstakingly earned is not fair to you. Don¡¯t talk¨CI know what you want to say. I completely understand, but you have to let me finish. You¡¯ve already said that you yourself as mine, so you don¡¯t have to insist on giving me all of your property as well.¡± Seeing him remain taciturn, she switched to another tactic: ¡°How about this, I¡¯ll safeguard the key but you¡¯ll keep the case. This would prove that these assets are both of ours. If you don¡¯t agree, I refuse to take even the key.¡±


    ¡°All right then!¡± Yun Shi Yi re-locked the green sandalwood box and handed the key over to his wife before putting the case back in its spot. This time, she carefully observed him. It turns out there was a dark space in the wall and with one press of the hidden mechanism, it would open. With the case once again inside, he pressed the button again and the dark hole was hidden from sight. It completely resembled an ordinary wall. If she hadn¡¯t seen him operate it, she would never have guessed there was a strongbox hidden here.


    After that, there weren¡¯t really any matters. Ruan Zhu felt weary and laid down on the couch for a nap,


    Yun Shi Yi took off his outer robe and covered her with it. Thinking that tomorrow he would have to leave her, he felt stifled in his heart. He lowered his head to press a soft kiss to her lips and gently licked her moist red mouth, careful not to wake her up. Yet when he lifted his head, he discovered her long eyelashes slightly trembling as if they¡¯d lift up at any moment. Sighing, he turned around to focus on his work. He had to settle all the important matters before his departure.


    Ruan Zhu napped for a long while. By the time she woke up, it was already afternoon, but she felt refreshed with all of her previous exhaustion swept away.


    Yun Shi Yi had finished his work and had long been keeping watch by his wife¡¯s side. Seeing her awake, he called for a manservant of Tian Yi Pavilion to carry in water for her to wash her face with. He personally groomed her. Undoing her messy hair, he re-combed it before twisting it back into a coil. Adorning it with a beaded flower, he also inserted a gold buyao embellished with a sapphire.


    ¡°These clothes are what I had some servants buy from an embroidery workshop. Try them on to see if they fit?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi picked up a package from the table and opened it. One glance at the delicate material and she knew its price was not low.


    ¡°How much was this?¡±


    Nowadays, all of her clothes were all extremely high-quality goods.


    But her husband chose his outfits as he wished. He sought convenience and was indifferent as to whether the material was expensive or not and the colors he usually chose were pale or light ones. Although he was very wealthy, he rarely accessorized himself with rare jewels or jade ornaments. However, this did not mean that he was not someone who did not know how to carefully select for quality. All of those small objects exhibited in his study room were all worthy of being collected. The ¡®Four Treasures of the Study¡¯[b] were all high-quality goods¨Ca brush from Huzhou, ink from Huizhou, paper from Xuanzhou, ink stone from Duanzhou. Not only were these materials good and reliable, they were also all created under a famous hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think about the price.¡± She wears it well and he¡¯s happy.


    Ruan Zhu finished putting it on and let him see. On her upper body was a pale pink garment embroidered with delicate butterflies that flowed like smoke, on her lower body was a streamline pleated skirt in the color of fresh grass. A thin moon-white muslin robe was draped across her back. Her long skirt dragged along the ground, and a cloud belt tied around her waist restricted her movements, accenting how slim her waist was.


    She looked like a young daffodil that had just flown down from the Heavens, quiet and delicate beyond compare; a pure person. Yun Shi Yi was looking straight at her and looped his hands around her slender waist. The measurement of her waist just so happened to fit exactly within the confines of his hands.


    ¡°Wife, your waist is truly slender.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because I haven¡¯t eaten yet.¡± After she had something to eat, she feared it wouldn¡¯t be like this.


    ¡°Hungry?¡± Yun Shi Yi faintly smiled. ¡°This husband will take you to Yu Ping Restaurant to eat their furong buns[c]. There are over a dozen varieties so you can eat your fill.¡±


    ¡°Then wouldn¡¯t my stomach be bursting with buns?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s entire heart felt sweet and full of honey. Linking arms with her hubby, they walked out of the study.


    The men of Tian Chu were much more outstanding compared to the men of the future. Not only could they earn money outside, the way they treated their wives at home was so good that there were no words to say. Perhaps it was because there were few women so females were more popular, but she had indeed fallen in love with this era. Even though there was no Internet, no flush toilets, and this period also lacked a string of other modern facilities, there was a beautiful romance. Being loved, protected, and taken cared of by the world¡¯s most handsome and elegant man¨Ceven if her place was taken by another transmigrated woman, there was no one who would be able to say they regretted transmigrating, right?


    She wasn¡¯t sure if it was because the world was too small, but after they had just walked through the entrance of Yu Ping Restaurant, they came face-to-face with Lu Piao Xiang, who had a guqin tucked under his arm. Seeing her, he suddenly came to a stop and stared at her, unconsciously rooted to the spot.


    Ruan Zhu also felt surprised. Because they were not familiar, she lightly nodded her head at him before following Yun Shi Yi in walking around him as they entered the restaurant.


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s eyes followed the beautiful figure as she walked away, all the way until she disappeared after turning a corner on the staircase. Even then, his eyes did not move for a while. It was as if her voice from that day was right by his ear, clearly reciting, ¡°The bright Moon shines in between the pine tree; Over the rocks, the clear spring water runs free¡­¡­¡± He had actually become momentarily dazed. (Translation by Alan Ma and Frank Yue)[d]


    [a] °ËÏɹýº£, the Eight Immortals in Chinese mythology all have a divine power. In one story, they head to a conference and decide to go by boat, relying on their powers, rather than just flying across the sea. (Wikipedia)


    [b] ÎÄ·¿Ëı¦, literally translated above, but is also idiom meaning essentials of calligraphy and scholarship. Four items are: brush, ink, paper, ink stone.


    [c] I translated these buns as ¡®Hibiscus buns¡¯ earlier but I¡¯m changing it to the pinyin because I¡¯ve done some more research and I¡¯m still not sure what exact style of buns they are.


    [d] Translation taken from (here).

 Chapter 33

    Glossary


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    [1] º¥ | hai | one of the ancient Chinese two-hour periods; designated 9-11 pm


    ¡°Mister Lu, what are you looking at, hmm?¡±


    From his ear came a question. The prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife had walked over with Liu Fei Xu in accompaniment.


    ¡°Just a moment ago I saw someone walking upstairs. It was precisely the female who recited the poem that day on the pleasure boat.¡±


    ¡°Ah, her.¡± The prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife snorted. There was nothing special about that girl¡¯s appearance. How could Mister Lu have an interest? Should she invite the other party to another gathering?


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s heart had slightly moved, but he remained expressionless.


    Liu Fei Xu¡¯s eyes contained a trace of coldness: ¡°That little girl has a rigid way of thinking and only has her husband in her eyes. No matter who the other person is, she doesn¡¯t pay any attention to them. I urge you to not give yourself any be fooled. Madam Yuan, not all of the women of Tian Chu are as how you imagine.¡±


    ¡°Is Mister Liu saying this out of personal experience? I am very curious.¡± The prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife delicately smiled, her elegant almond eyes coquettishly flashing.


    Liu Fei Xu had been exposed and he somewhat resentfully replied: ¡°Don¡¯t forget you still owe her one hundred taels of gold. If you refuse to send them over and word gets out, you will certainly lose face.¡± Having said that, he left Yu Ping Restaurant without turning back, not even when the prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife shouted after him.


    The prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam shouted a few times. Seeing that the person in front of her acted as if he hadn¡¯t heard, she became angry: ¡°A guy who doesn¡¯t know how to appreciate favors. Hmph! Who has refused? It¡¯s only a hundred taels of gold. This madam does not put them in my eyes!¡±


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    ¡°Yu Ping Restaurant¡¯s business is so good, it¡¯s exploding off the charts. Especially during meal times, when they usually have a full house. But I am very familiar with the owner of Yu Ping Restaurant so no matter what time I come, there will always be seats available. If it was other people, they would have to reserve a spot in advance.¡±


    ¡°Wherever Head Yun goes, he will be given face, allowing this wife to also share in the honor.¡± Ruan Zhu looked at the table full of dishes. There were more than ten varieties of buns alone¨Cmeat options such as beef, pork, chicken, duck, venison, swan¡­¡­celery, napa cabbage, Chinese leeks, mustard, Chinese toon sprouts, carrots¨Call kinds of fillings were available¡­¡­The shape of the bun was small and exquisite. She ate quite a few until she could eat no more.


    ¡°You ate this little? If Shi Wei was here, it¡¯s likely that he would have swept all of this into his belly.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s just bring these back for him to eat. Don¡¯t squander them. ¡®If one can¡¯t eat it all, one has to take it home.¡® The ancients have long reminded us to conserve resources.¡± She had been accustomed to being poor from her previous life and felt uncomfortable at seeing others being wasteful.


    ¡°My wife is an honorable young lady from a reputable wealthy family, yet feels grievances for these few stuffed buns.¡± Yun Shi Yi slightly smiled and placed a dainty bun into the small saucer in front of her with his chopsticks: ¡°Don¡¯t you love eating fish? This is stuffed with Crucian carp and the taste is very good. Try it. Last night when we returned, it had been too late to cook the fish we bought, so try this one.¡±


    When they had gotten home yesterday, she had felt exhausted after bathing so randomly ate some pastries and then fell asleep without waiting for the fish soup to be made.


    Ruan Zhu eagerly picked up the bun and took two bites. Nausea suddenly overwhelmed her and she spit it all out.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Yun Shi Yi patted her back and brought over some water to let her clear her throat with. His entire face expressed his concern: ¡°Do you not feel well? How about we return home and I¡¯ll send for a doctor to check your pulse?¡±


    After drinking a few sips of water, Ruan Zhu felt much better: ¡°I¡¯m not that fragile. I just felt a little nauseous but it¡¯s fine now.¡±


    ¡°Are you truly all right?¡±


    ¡°Why would I deceive you? Don¡¯t invite a doctor over such an insignificant matter. It would be such a pointless expense.¡± She had gone to the hospital in her past life because of a headache and a fever. Small cases would cost several hundred RMB while severe cases would be several thousand RMB. It wasn¡¯t like her family owned a money-printing business. Where would she get all of that money to give as charity to the doctors?


    Yun Shi Yi stretched out a hand to stroke her cheek, his fingers sliding across her bright and clean skin. With a heavy look in his eyes: ¡°Wife, your current condition makes me worried. How could I leave with my heart at ease?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyebrows lifted and her eyes widened in disbelief: ¡°You¡¯re leaving me? Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve imported a batch of gold-threaded Phoebe zhennan wood from Lingnan[a] and I do not wish for it to be detained by the corrupt local authorities in Liu Zhou. This matter needs to be urgently resolved. If I am late, everything will have been squandered.¡± The bureaucracy was completely rotten so if he was late, all of his wood would have have cleanly embezzled away.


    Gold-threaded Phoebe zhennan! That was indeed an extremely precious wood. It had been under the exclusive use of the imperial family during the Ming and Qing dynasties and the common people had been forbidden from using it. For the sake of decorating his tomb, Emperor Qian Long tore apart the majority of Emperor Yong Le¡¯s tomb just to obtain gold-threaded Phoebe zhennan.[b] Therefore, among the common people, there was a saying that Emperior Qian Long was a grave robber.


    Calling Emperor Qian Long a grave robber was not an exaggeration but because there was a cause, there certainly will be a resolution and Heaven¡¯s law would manifest appropriate retribution. Perhaps Emperor Yong Le had looked on with a cold eye from the Heavens, as not long after the Qing dynasty perished, Emperor Qian Long¡¯s luxurious tomb, as well as the tomb of Empress Dowager Cixi, were cleanly plundered by Sun Dian Ying.[c]


    Yun Shi Yi linked his hands around her waist, letting her sit properly in his lap. Using chopsticks to bring a vegetable-filled bun to her mouth: ¡°You have to eat more. Your body is too frail so raising you a little plumper is best.¡±


    ¡°But you had praised my waist for being so slender earlier. If I¡¯m a little fatter, I¡¯ll become ugly and you won¡¯t like me anymore.¡±


    ¡°How is that possible? Being chubby is very adorable and you¡¯ll also be less prone to being sick. You also do not wish for this husband to always worry about you, correct?¡± He recalled how during those days after they got married, she would often faint during their love making because her physical strength had been unable to endure until the end. His brows couldn¡¯t help but to pinch in distress.


    Ruan Zhu could only helplessly accept the offered bun and opened her mouth. But another spell of nausea hit her and she hastily put down the bun and buried her head in his chest. Yun Shi Yi saw that her face had gone pale and became alarmed. Carrying her horizontally, he headed downstairs: ¡°Wife, this husband will take you home. Having a doctor come see you is a must.¡±


    Ruan Zhu suddenly felt extraordinarily uncomfortable. With her head all dizzy, she actually fell asleep in his arms.


    Exiting Yu Ping Restaurant, Yun Shi Yi happened to see Yun Shan and ordered him to quickly find a doctor. Placing his wife in the carriage, he personally drove the carriage towards their residence.


    Returning home, he carried her to their bedroom in Yaoguang Courtyard and kept watch by the bedside. It was only when the sky had already turned pitch-black that he saw Yun Shan return, but he was alone.


    ¡°What happened? Why is it that you returned alone? Where is the physician?¡±


    ¡°Master, this small one was not able to invite a physician. This one heard that a great bridge collapsed in Dong Cheng and a great many people had perished. All of the physicians in the city have been temporarily recruited by the prefectural magistrate to assist. This small one has visited countless medical halls but was not able to find one physician.¡± Yun Shan had walked for many sichen and was unbearably exhausted. There had been no time for him to drink any water. His throat was so dry, smoke could rise up at any moment, and when he spoke, his voice was very hoarse.


    Yun Shi Yi waved his arm: ¡°You can withdraw to rest!¡±


    Ruan Zhu slept for a very long time. Her wan complexion slowly regained its rosy hue. Perhaps it was because she had been exhausted from sightseeing for so long these past few days! He thought, yet again the blame was on him. He gloomily rebuked himself for not properly taking care of her. He originally was going to leave for the South tomorrow but it looked like he would have to postpone the trip for one day later. This young and silly girl¡¯s body was so weak, how could he be able to leave with a light heart?


    If she was to be handed over to Shi Wei for him to look after, well, that fellow only knew how to look for trouble, and he would feel even more unconvinced. What would be best to do?


    After half of the time of hai[1] had passed, Ruan Zhu finally woke up and her vitality was much better. Leaning against his chest, she tried to soothe him: ¡°Why shoulder all of the blame? I am just a little tired and will be fine after sleeping for a while. See, aren¡¯t I currently very well?¡±

 Chapter 34

    ¡°If only it were so.¡± Yun Shi Yi pulled her into his arms and kissed her for a while. The pure fragrance of the woman captivated him and the object at his crotch involuntarily swelled. Taking a deep breath, he placed her on top of the finely embroidered bed and covered her with the crimson brocade quilt.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, you don¡¯t want to?¡± She looked at the man in front of her with a pair of sparkling eyes, her bright and clean skin shining with a soft glow under the illumination of the candle.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s mind flashed with memories of her naked body pressed under his own and his underbelly fluctuated with a burning heat. Tucking her into the quilt, he gravely said: ¡°What do you mean ¡®want¡¯? Such a young age yet you¡¯ve followed bad examples. Hurry and obediently go to sleep.¡±


    ¡°More sleep? If I sleep any more, I¡¯ll turn into a pig.¡±


    ¡°Then close your eyes and rest. I¡¯ll have the kitchen simmer a nourishing ginger soup. After Nuan Chun brings it over for you, drink it and then sleep.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t feel hungry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s to supplement your body. Even if you¡¯re not hungry, you still have to drink it.¡±


    ¡°Tucking me in this tightly on such a hot day is not letting one live.¡± Ruan Zhu mumbled to herself and extracted her arms from beneath the quit but actually put it on his crotch, gently stroking his bulge through the soft silk material of his pants: ¡°Eldest Cousin, I know you want to cum. Enduring it is very difficult. If you are worried, I don¡¯t have to do that. Instead, I can just touch you!¡±


    Yun Shi Yi wanted to refuse but that little hand caused unspeakable pleasure to well up inside him. His blood rushed forth and the bulge at his pants somewhat swelled and rose up even more. He undid his belt, exposing his little brother, and grabbed her little hand to put it on top. A split second after her little hand gripped him, ¡°Nn!¡± A satisfied groan escaped from his mouth, his eyes dark with desire.


    Ruan Zhu stood up from the quilt and pulled at him. The half-shedded pants were completely pulled off by her and she separated his thighs. Kneeling down between his thighs, she faced him. The enormous shaft in front of her was perfectly upright and she caressed it with both her hands¡­¡­


    ¡°Husband Lord, is this movement comfortable?¡± She lowered her eyes. Her right hand continuously stroked him while her left hand supported his two jewels underneath and gently teased them.


    He cherished her with all of his heart and soul, so in return, she also wanted him to have the best.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­My wife is the most wonderful¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s entire body felt as if he had been lit by a dry fire. Under her caresses, intense pleasure surged through him. He suddenly saw that she had lowered her head, causing her beautiful cloud-like hair to resemble a waterfall as it flowed down from her scalp, making him unable to clearly see what she was doing. But when a moist and warm sensation wrapped around his manhood, he was unable to suppress his body from shuddering.


    ¡°Wife, Wife¡­¡­¡±


    He abruptly clung to her head, his buttocks ramming upwards. The exquisite pleasure caused low groans to spill from his throat. After a few minutes, in the wake of a few rapid movements, a pleasure that was a hundred-times stronger than before attacked his brain/mind.


    ¡°Nn, ah¡­¡­!¡±


    He suddenly roared as his hips violently trembled. The collected pleasure in his lower belly had surged into a current as it searched for and found an exit of release.


    He attained the most fantastic feeling of flying among the clouds and laid on top of her, gasping for air. Lifting his eyes, he saw his wife¡¯s little face stuck in a dilemma. He couldn¡¯t help but to smile and clean her with a towel he picked up. Knowing she loved to be clean, he took another towel and soaked it in the basin at the corner of the room before walking back and wiping her entire face and hands clean.


    Ruan Zhu sized up his perfect clothes-less figure. His physique was strong and sculpted with no trace of unwanted fat. Broad shoulders, solid chest, a tight and narrow waist, a perfectly rugged abdomen, slender and healthy legs that were also powerful¡­¡­She moved her gaze towards the middle. His member that had just been alleviated was not as stiff as before and swayed from left to right continuously with his movements.


    ¡°What are you looking at, hmm?¡± Yun Shi Yi poked the tip of her nose. ¡°You want it, is that right? If you feel that you have recovered, this husband can consider doing you once.¡±


    ¡°Who said you had to do me?¡± Ruan Zhu was embarrassed. The way he said it made it seem as if she was a woman who lived for sex.


    Yun Shi Yi pushed his hand into her pants, using his fingers to search for her flower petals before gently rubbing: ¡°Wife, you¡¯re a little wet.¡±


    ¡°How could that be?¡± She felt that she had lost some face and angrily pushed aside his large hand. This was an ordinary biological reaction, okay? The way he said it was as if she was seeking pleasure of her own from being unsatisfied.


    Yun Shi Yi was about to say more but was interrupted by knocking on the door. He carelessly threw on a pair of pants and went to open the door. He hadn¡¯t thought that the one to come in would be Yun Shi Wei that carried in a food box as he entered.


    ¡°Why are you here? Didn¡¯t I tell you to stay in your own courtyard tonight?¡±


    ¡°I came to see my spouse.¡± Yun Shi Wei opened the food box and took out a porcelain urn. Lifting up the lid revealed the steaming hot and thick aromatic soup inside. ¡°This is the nourishing ginger soup that the kitchen has just finished simmering. I¡¯m sending it in replacement of Nuan Chun.¡±


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve delivered it, you can leave. There is nothing of your concern here.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi thought abou thow this was the eve of the start of his southwards journey and his heart felt extremely stifled as there would be a very long period where he could not see his wife. He only wanted to take this time to spend more time with her so he extended a hand to receive the porcelain jug his brother had brought in, but didn¡¯t expect Yun Shi Wei would avoid him: ¡°I have to personally witness Zhu Zhu drink it all to feel at ease.¡± He chuckled twice heh heh and walked towards the head of the bed, with a fawning face: ¡°Spouse, let Second Cousin feed you.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi was gloomy at seeing his own privilege being stolen away.


    ¡°Second Cousin, you¡¯re careless and haphazard and I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll spill it. How about you just give it to Eldest Cousin!¡±


    ¡°There are some things that us brothers take care of. You women wouldn¡¯t understand this brotherly affection.¡±


    This line again! Ruan Zhu thought, almost falling to the floor in her exasperation.


    It was hard to imagine that a coarse man such as him also knew how to somewhat take care of people. Yun Shi Wei held the porcelain urn in his left hand while he ladled a spoonful of soup with his right. He blew on the soup before sending it to Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth. Seeing her open her mouth and swallowing it, his eyebrows raised and eyes curved as he happily laughed, happier than if he himself was the one eating. After feeding her a few bites, he felt this position was uncomfortable. Placing the porcelain jug on the table, he picked her up to place her on his thigh so that his left arm was looped around her slender waist while his right ladled soup for her.


    Yun Shi Yi stood by the side and watched them, feeling rather fulfilled. If Shi Wei could always be like this, he would have no worries leaving her in his care.


    After she had eaten half the jug, Ruan Zhu shook her head and refused to eat no matter how he coaxed: ¡°If I eat any more, my stomach will burst! Second Cousin, just let me get away with this, all right?¡±


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, just one more bite.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei once again brought the spoon full of soup to her mouth/lips. She frowned. She had drank so much soup, she¡¯d definitely have to get up multiple times at night.


    ¡°Don¡¯t force her.¡± Yun Shi Yi collected the porcelain jar and the soup spoon and placed them back in the food box. ¡°Let me tell the both of you something¨CI am heading south to Liu Zhou tomorrow, and by my calculations, the distance of the trip to and back will most likely mean I will be gone for a long while. During the period I am not home, Shi Wei, you must take good care of Zhu Zhu. Later, I will have someone send a message to our parents to have them come into the city often for a look.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was dazed at first but soon after patted his chest in guarantee: ¡°For everything, there is this brother. I will take good care of Zhu Zhu, Eldest Brother, you can be at ease even with a hundred hearts!¡±


    In the past, Yun Shi Yi often went away on trips because of work, so he was not worried about this aspect.


    He could finally live alone with Ruan Zhu! Yun Shi Wei was overjoyed at this turn of events and mischievously snickered.


    No! He was not one bit at ease at all! Yun Shi Yi furrowed his brows.


    Ruan Zhu got up from Yun Shi Wei¡¯s lap and sat next to Yun Shi Yi: ¡°Eldest Cousin, I want to go to Liu Zhou with you.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi was startled and stared blankly at her. Following which, he refused with cold words: ¡°Not allowed. I am not going on a scenic tour, this is for work.¡±


    From the corner of Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes, unspeakably clear tears formed. Her voice was somewhat melancholy: ¡°I won¡¯t disturb your work. We can take a carriage there and place a soft, thick fleece mattress. Lying down on it to sleep will be very cozy. By the time I wake, we will have reached our destination.¡±


    ¡°On the road, one becomes travel-weary. How could it be as easygoing as you said? Your body is also weak.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I need to strengthen my body. Who knows, maybe when we leave and come back, I will be as healthy as Eldest Cousin, and will have endless energy and everything I eat will be tasty!¡±[a]


    ¡°What is the matter with you, child?¡± Yun Shi Yi reprimanded her with a taut face. ¡°You will obediently stay at home. If there¡¯s nothing to do, ingest some more tonics. If you feel too stuffy from being indoors all day, go to Yun manor for a change in scenery. Otherwise, take Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing with you to go shopping on the streets.¡±


    Ruan Zhu resembled a disobedient elementary student as she lowered her head and ventured in a quiet voice: ¡°I won¡¯t drag you down.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t drag me down?¡± Yun Shi Yi extended two fingers to prop up her delicate chin, gently saying: ¡°Then let me say this¨CYou coming along with me is precisely holding me back. Let me put it this way¨CI can travel a thousand li on horseback in ten days. Taking a carriage with you would take a month. It¡¯s such a long journey that even if we did end up reaching Liu Zhou, the long yellow daylily would have already cooled[b], and the wood would have long been exploited almost completely by them.¡±


    ¡°The most important part of doing business is that one is happy during the process. You are already very wealthy and that batch of wood doesn¡¯t actually mean much to you. If you renounce happiness and blindly pursue money, your life would not have much meaning.¡±


    ¡°Your little mouth is indeed capable of speaking. There seems to be some rationale in your words so let me think this over.¡± Yun Shi Yi shook his head. His little wife was only fifteen years old yet she actually had these thoughts. When he was fifteen, what had he been capable of? Following his father in learning how to do business, following an instructor in learning martial arts, studying every night¨Che had always followed the path set out for him by his parents as the successor of the Yun clan. ¡°I¡¯ll send an assistant to go down to Liu Zhou first to organize the situation. Us arriving a little later is also not impossible. But your health¡­¡­¡±


    He was not reassured in leaving Ruan Zhu under Yun Shi Wei¡¯s care, but he also worried her body was too weak to accompany him on such a long trip.


    ¡°It¡¯s precisely because my health isn¡¯t good that I have to go out and strengthen myself.¡± Ruan Zhu replied, deadly earnest. Lightly pursing her lips, she threw herself into his arms and the latter held her close. ¡°You troublesome little imp, is asking me to take you such a good thing?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei grumbled: ¡°I don¡¯t care where you guys go. In any case, wherever Zhu Zhu goes, I follow. You better not think of leaving me behind.¡± He had even thought he finally had the opportunity to live alone with her and once again, his hopes were dashed.


    The three of them made a racket until the middle of the night before finally climbing into the bed to sleep.


    Early the next morning, they made the arrangements to go south. All of the necessary clothes and valuables were brought along without exception. As for servants, Nuan Qing and Nuan Chun had to follow along to attend to Ruan Zhu. Yun Feng was now the residence¡¯s steward, thus had a great deal of matters to attend to and could not go with them. But Yun Shan was Yun Shi Yi¡¯s attendant so he also had to be brought along. They took two carriages¨Cone for the masters, and one for the servants.


    At noon, Yun Shi Yi went out of the city for a visit to the Yun manor. When he returned in the afternoon, he was leading a beautiful white horse


    ¡°This is my mount that I like to ride every time I go out. Since we¡¯re using a carriage this time, I¡¯ll just tie it to the back of the carriage and let it run with us. I¡¯m bringing it along because there might be a time when having a mount is necessary.¡±


    ¡°Bringing it is good. When I get tired of sitting in the carriage all day, Eldest Cousin can take me for a ride.¡± Ruan Zhu resolutely nodded her head: ¡°It¡¯s so tall and strong. It must be a species of Mongolian horse, right? Does it have a name?¡±


    ¡°It indeed is a Mongolian horse. It¡¯s been given a few names in the past but because I¡¯m too lazy to use them, I¡¯ve forgotten them all.¡±


    ¡°Let me think of a name then!¡± Ruan Zhu tilted her head and thought for a moment: ¡°How about calling it Hummer?¡±


    ¡°No good.¡± Yun Shi Yi shook his head. His little wife¡¯s ability to come up with names was truly average.


    ¡°How about¨CBMW, Ferrari, Porsche, Benz, Chevrolet, Rolls-Royce?[c]¡± She looked at him with a face full of expectations but saw him reject each one. She became angry: ¡°Then why don¡¯t you pick one, ah?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi felt gloomy and only slowly opened his mouth a while later: ¡°Let¡¯s just call him Hummer then!¡±


    In his heart, he vowed that in the future when they have children, he must not, under any circumstance, let her come up with the name.


    [a] ³ÔÂïÂïÏã ¡°everything I eat will be tasty¡±, reference to a toothpaste (ÀäËáÁé Leng Suan Ling, I believe) catchphrase. Entire line is ¡®ÑÀºÃ£¬Î¸¿Ú¾ÍºÃ£¬ÉíÌ屶¶ù°ô£¬³ÔÂïÂïÏ㡯 which roughly translates to ¡®if teeth are good, appetite is good, then entire body is good and everything is delicious¡¯.


    [b] »Æ»¨²Ë¶¼Á¹ÁË, (sort of) idiom meaning the waiting time is too long/one came too late.


    [c] In case anyone doesn¡¯t know, these are all famous car makers. Pun because the Chinese characters for Hummer literally translate to ¡®heroic/valiant horse¡¯ and they¡¯re naming a horse. (??¥î?)? ?(?¥î??)


    º·Âí han ma Hummer | ±¦Âí bao ma BMW | ·¨À­Àû fa la li Ferrari| ±£Ê±½Ý bao shi jie Porsche | ±öÊ¿ (±¼³Û) bin shi (ben chi) Mercedes-Benz | Ñ©¸£À´ (Ñ©·ðÀ¼) xue fu lai (xue fo lan) Chevrolet | ÀÍ˹À³Ë¹ lao si lai si Rolls-Royce

 Chapter 35

    The azure sky was calm with not a cloud in sight, but saying that in itself was a little strange. Ever since the beginning of spring, the weather had been extremely hot and not a single drop of rain had fallen. All the farm crops drooped lifelessly, appearing even more wretched than the withered and dry grass in late autumn.


    Ruan Zhu sat on top of the brocade mattress, resting against the window as she stared outside. She inwardly sighed. Surviving in an era that relied on the Heavens was not easy. It looked like this year¡¯s harvest was over, but the consequences of famine were probably not as serious as how they portrayed it on TV, right?


    ¡°What are you thinking, hmm?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi felt bored since the start of the journey. He always read to pass the time, but the books he preferred, Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t understand them. She had also stayed silent, which he was unaccustomed to.


    ¡°Look, the crops in the fields are all dying. Why have the Heavens not made it rain yet?¡± Ruan Zhu turned her head around and suddenly remembered something: ¡°What will happen to the tenant farmers of Yun clan? Would¡¯t it be disastrous if the crops don¡¯t grow?¡±


    ¡°Since they are our tenants, how could Mother and Father turn a blind eye and not care if they starve to death? Following the previously set standards, we will lend them a portion of foodstuffs and they will reimburse us with the next year¡¯s harvest.¡±


    Ruan Zhu made an oh in response. Were all feudal landowners like this? Or was it just specific individuals? Or else how could history have recorded the deaths of so many people from starvation, even reaching the atrocity of human consumption? But thinking more deeply about this, perhaps cannibalism wasn¡¯t that terrible and frightening? In ¡¶Robinson Crusoe¡·, before Friday had become civilized, his race was fond of eating human meat. If he hadn¡¯t been saved by Robinson, he would have long been taken by others and thoroughly cooked and consumed.[FOOTNOTE HERE, A]


    In that world, they ate human meat even when there was no shortage of actual food¨Cthe Europeans were indeed uncivilized.[FOOTNOTE HERE, B] Fortunately, she had transmigrated into the motherland and the country of Tian Chu that she was currently in could be classified as the Song dynasty from her previous space-time. At this time, Europe was going backwards as smallpox ran unchecked and famine was everywhere. If she had transmigrated there, it was obvious how idiotic of a choice that would have been. Hee hee¡­¡­[FOOTNOTE HERE, C]


    ¡°What are you foolishly laughing for?¡± Yun Shi Yi gently tapped her head with the book in his hands.


    ¡°Who is foolishly laughing?¡± Ruan Zhu wrested the book away from him and cast it into the corner of the carriage. ¡°Looking at the current situation, this autumn¡¯s famine may be critical. How about stockpiling more foodstuffs? At that time when the price of food soars, there would be quite a bit of profit, hmm?¡±


    An outstanding businessman required foresight. By buying in bulk at the opportune times and then reselling when the occasion is right, the profit earned by these transactions would not be able to be counted.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes turned frosty and a cold voice issued from his mouth: ¡°I will not profit from something that goes against my conscience. Soaring grain prices has always been unfair as it forces the common people to have no alternative but to lose their family fortunes and at worst, sell their sons or their daughters in order to afford a mouthful of food. Even if they did end up surviving in the end, they would have nothing left to their name.¡±


    Ruan Zhu looked at him at a loss, with equal amounts of admiration and gloominess swirling in her eyes: ¡°Who asked you to earn such dirty money? The common people will surely resent and bear grudges against the merchants that take advantage of the famine to raise the price of grain. If at that time, an utterly fearless person supplied them with reasonably priced grain that stabilized the market, that person would see both fame and fortune and become the big hero of the common people inside the city walls of Lan Zhou. What you currently lack is not money but reputation. When you have reputation, even if the local authorities want to move against you, they have to first consider how the commoners in Lan Zhou would react. If the officials lose the popular sentiment, then they won¡¯t be able to wear their wushamao for long.¡±


    Ming dynasty officials wearing wushamao (black hats)


    Wasn¡¯t there a sentence for this circumstance? It was better to offend the Heavens than to purposely stir up anger by going against public opinion.


    ¡°Are you fifteen years old?¡± Yun Shi Yi looked at her in a daze: ¡°I usually see you not worrying about anything and your conduct is also relaxed and stingy. When we went to eat a meal at a restaurant, you wanted to take it all home since we couldn¡¯t finish it. For you to have such a profound understanding, it¡¯s truly unexpected. How had I not seen this side of you before?¡±


    ¡°Where am I stingy? I am living my life well.¡±


    Ruan Zhu became bristled in resentment at his sarcastic words and pounced on him¡­¡­


    Caught by surprise, Yun Shi Yi fell onto the brocade mattress with the petite body on top of him. His heart relaxed and he felt invigorated. Holding her tightly, he flipped them around and kissed her as his body pressed down on hers. ¡°The things you come up with in that little head of yours all have some justification. When we get off the carriage to stay at the next location, I¡¯ll write a letter and send it home to Third Father Chu, telling him buy foodstuffs in bulk.¡±


    Third Father Chu was the third secondary husband of her mother-in-law, who was naturally gifted in business. In Lan Zhou, he had opened over ten rice trading companies. With the exception of Master Yun, he was the one that was most in Madam Yun¡¯s heart. She had become pregnant with his children twice so had given him three sons, two of which were twins.


    The two of them were in the midst of their conversation when the sound of hooves came from the front and Yun Shi Yi¡¯s mount, Hummer, appeared in the window.


    ¡°Eldest Brother, Spouse, what are you guys doing?¡± Yun Shi Wei sat on the horse¡¯s back and leaned his body to look inside the window to discover that the two figures had intersected into one on the floor. He started shouting as if he had caught the couple in the act: ¡°How could you two eat behind my back?! We¡¯ve already been traveling for over a dozen days and I still haven¡¯t been able to touch a hair of Zhu Zhu¡¯s. I¡¯m restraining a fire inside of me, you know. I don¡¯t care anymore, when we stop at the next inn, Zhu Zhu has to sleep with me.¡±


    His voice was not soft and it would have been weird dumb to think the coachman of their carriage had not heard through the wooden partition. She even heard the sound of someone trying their hardest to stifle their laughter. Immediately angry, she babbled incoherently: ¡°Only pigs will sleep with you¡­¡­¡± Eh? That wasn¡¯t right. She tried again: ¡°Only you will accompany pigs¡­¡­¡±


    That was even more wrong! From the corner of her eye, she saw the pile of books on the table and without thinking, threw the entire stack at Yun Shi Wei. Pi pi pa pa. All of the books clattered as they fell out the window.


    Printing in the ancient era was not an easy thing to do, so books were very precious, and Yun Shi Yi treated them as treasures. It wasn¡¯t that he did not have the money to buy them again; it was that some of them were basically no longer available for purchase. Thus, he hurriedly called for the driver to stop the carriage and jumped out to pick them up.


    As for Yun Shi Wei, he knew that he had just caused a mishap and had long rode off, not leaving a trace behind.


    The sky was dark by the time they reached Mao Er Town. Why was it called ¡®Mao Er¡¯?[FOOTNOTE HERE,D] Well, that was because it faced the water on three sides and the shape of the actual land bore an extreme resemblance to a cat¡¯s ear. Although the name was quite peculiar, the town bordered the country of Nan Ling in the south and shared a common border with the country of Tu Bo in the west. There was also a large fair here once a month. On that day, merchants and other commoners would come from Nan Ling and Tu Bo would come to Mao Er Town to peddle goods and purchase items.


    It is called a town but in reality, the population size had reached the standard of a county seat. The local official had repeatedly applied to establish themselves according to the county standards but had been completely suppressed by the local county magistrate at each turn. As for the reason, everyone clearly understood why¨Cthey wanted to profit using underhanded means. Who here didn¡¯t know that the taxes earned from the large amount of trade in this town was enough to make others green with envy?


    Finding a pretty good inn to stay the night at, Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing greeted the shop assistant that had already prepared bath water. The two servants placed a clean set of clothes by the bathtub and changed the sheets on the bed to the high-quality ones of their own residence. After everything had been tidily set up, they withdrew from the room.


    Yun Shi Yi saw his own wife¡¯s beautiful white figure stepping into the bathtub and peeled off his own clothes to join her. Pulling the tender and delicate body into his arms, his left hand splashed water onto her body while his right washed her clean.


    ¡°My wife is extraordinarily beautiful. ¡®Like a pear blossom bathed in springtime rain¡¯, is not that phrase precisely used for this sort of situation?¡±


    ¡°Certainly not. It¡¯s to describe the scene of a heart-broken Yang Guifei weeping.¡± That phrase was for when one was leaning against a railing, feeling deeply hurt and lonely. The source of this line came from Bai Ju Yi. Not long after Tian Chu was founded, this famous poet was born and his verses were circulated extensively as they were easy to understand.[FOOTNOTE HERE, E]


    Although this space-time¡¯s history seemed to veer in a different direction, there should still be some of the same famous personages, right! If Tian Chu continues being so powerful down the line and there was no Mongol Empire, then all of those famous poems from her previous world that she had memorized would not emerge at all in this era! It was a bit unfortunate that just like Yue Fei¡¯s Man Jiang Hong, those poets like Xin Qi Ji and Lu You that wrote all those patriotic verses and withstood outside barbarians, would also probably not exist here.[FOOTNOTE HERE, F]


    ¡°That is because the person who wrote that did not understand what grace is. If he knew that there was someone even more beautiful than Yang Guifei, he would not say that.¡±


    ¡°Someone more beautiful than Yang Guifei? Who is it?¡± Ruan Zhu stared at him blankly. Had her husband also transmigrated and met Yang Guifei? Or had he met someone that was more good-looking than her? There was a bit of jealousy in her heart.


    ¡°Precisely the foolish little girl sitting on top of this husband¡¯s lap.¡±


    As the young husband and wife were playfully bantering, a voice suddenly sounded from the door.


    She knew it was Yun Shi Wei without thinking.


    Ruan Zhu hung her head dispiritedly with a look of defeat.


    Yun Shi Yi sighed. Moving Ruan Zhu off his lap, he got out of the tub, draping a robe over himself as he went to open the door.


    As soon as the door opened, Yun Shi Wei impatiently rushed inside. Seeing Ruan Zhu was currently washing, he immediately revealed a deliriously happy expression and foolishly laughed as he carelessly flung his clothes off. The wild beast jumped into the tub and immediately hugged her, indiscriminately moving his hands up and down as he groped her.


    Ruan Zhu was like a rag doll as she was rubbed everywhere by him. This despicable fellow had gone through so many pleasant experiences that touching her was so familiar, he could do it with a hand tied behind his back. He knew where she was most susceptible. His fingers caressed her upper body, kneading and pinching. In addition, he used the tip of his tongue and light grazes of his teeth to tease her.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, I know you like this. I¡¯ll definitely make you comfortable and won¡¯t make it painful.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t use too much strength.¡± She knew he could not be obstructed and could only be resigned to accept misfortune as fate and let him fiddle with her.


    ¡°I know, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll definitely be gentle.¡± He thought it was about time so he flipped her over so that her back was facing him and her hands were supported on the tub¡¯s edge. His hand held onto his already painfully swollen member and abruptly thrust inside.


    ¡°Ah!¡± She screamed in pain. ¡°Gently, it hurts!¡±


    ¡°Shi Wei, if you continue to misbehave, do you believe I won¡¯t throw you out the door this instant?¡± Yun Shi Yi threw off his robe. Walking closer, he saw his wife with a conspicuously pale complexion and his heart immediately tightened.


    ¡°I know, I¡¯m being gentle.¡± Yun Shi Wei hurriedly replied.


    Yun Shi Yi stood outside the tub, supporting his wife as he moved her to rest on his chest. His hands massaged her plump breasts, hoping it would help relieve some of her pain.


    After his promise, Yun Shi Wei was delighted. Even with only his tip inside, he immediately became dazed by the tight warmth that caused his entire body to feel so comfortable. Unable to endure it, he grabbed both her hips and rushed headlong into her like an out of control wild horse.


    Yun Shi Yi knew words would not move his brother and could only use his own methods to let their wife join in the pleasure. Lowering his head to kiss a red plum, his hands gently slid across her fair flesh, finding the most sensitive little bead on the female¡¯s body, and using his fingers to lightly tease it.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­Eldest Cousin, I want to kiss you.¡± He was both her Husband Lord and her gentle dearest Eldest Cousin, and she was reliant on him.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s mouth let go of the bud on the chest in front of him and moved to her lips, swallowing them whole. His kissing technique was incredibly good after going through so many practice sessions and she became engrossed not a moment later.


    The ramming at her back was still intense, but it was no longer as painful.


    When he finally arrived at the highest peak, Yun Shi Wei sent his fiery passion into her and tightly hugged her from behind.


    By this moment, Ruan Zhu¡¯s body was already soft and was entirely supported by Yun Shi Yi in front.


    ¡°Wife, are you all right?¡± He worriedly looked at her.


    ¡°Husband Lord, my stomach is a little painful.¡± Her face was deathly white and the sweat at her temples trickled down. Sprawled on his chest, her body slightly shivered. It wasn¡¯t that it was just a little painful, it was so painful she thought her whole body would start cramping.


    ¡°Still haven¡¯t scrammed?!¡± Yun Shi Yi furiously shouted at his brother.


    ¡°I¡­¡­I got it.¡± Yun Shi Yi hurriedly let go of her, completely at a loss.


    Yun Shi Yi carried his wife out of the bath tub. Walking a few steps to the bed, he placed her down, yet discovered that she had already fainted. There was no trace of blood in her face that was as white as a piece of paper.


    He felt this was not right and touched the spot between her legs. Yet when he held his fingers up, he found them to be completely bloodstained.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, what happened, what happened to Zhu Zhu?¡± Yun Shi Wei came over, all helter-skelter.


    Cold eyes looked at him, so cold it seemed as if ice could shoot out at any moment. Those frosty eyes expressionlessly looked at the man in front of him. A leg was abruptly raised and a ruthless kick was aimed over. This kick was not light, and caught unaware, Yun Shi Wei slammed into the wall, knocking over the clothes hanger in the process.


    After he crawled back up, he heard Yun Shi Yi¡¯s furious roar: ¡°Still haven¡¯t gone to invite a physician?!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go there at once.¡± He knew he was the cause of this catastrophe. In his heart, he thought: If she met with disaster, he would commit suicide in repentance. Randomly throwing some pants on, he didn¡¯t even bother to put on an upper garment and ran outside half-naked.


    [a] Robinson Crusoe is a famous European novel about a stranded man who saves a young prisoner which he names ¡®Friday¡¯. Friday was on course to being eaten by cannibals. (Wikipedia)


    [b] Just wanted to point out that her reasoning is false because Crusoe had actually been stranded near South America when he met the cannibals. the more u know


    [c] Song dynasty was from 960-1279. According to Wikipedia, smallpox devastated Europe during the Early Middle Ages (~400 to ~900) and became an endemic again in the 1700s. So I guess the author¡¯s claim is not too far off since it¡¯s very possible/likely smallpox also rampaged in Europe between 900-1700? idk.


    [d] è¶ú, literally translates to cat ear


    [e] Ñî¹óåú Yang Guifei, famous Tang beauty that was a consort of the Emperor Xuanzhong, killed as a scapegoat during the An Shi Rebellion | °×¾ÓÒ× Bai Ju Yi, famous Tang poet that wrote the poem ¡®Song of Everlasting Regret¡¯, where the line comes from | Entire poem and translation can be found on Wikipedia.


    [f] All three men were great poets from the Southern Song dynasty and very patriotic. As far as I can tell, Lou You (and maybe the other two) called for the re-unification of China and to expel the Jurchen from northern China but was shunned by his peers. Man Jiang Hong is a patriotic poem that many believe was written by Yue Fei (Translation on Wiki)

 Chapter 36

    Yun Shi Yi looked towards the frail body lying unconscious on the bed. A cold feeling that was hard to withstand suddenly penetrated into his bone marrow. At the same time, an extreme fear loomed in his mind.


    He couldn¡¯t let her continue to bleed like this. What could he do? He used a towel to wipe the blood on her ¡õ and then frantically looked through their bags for ning xiang lu. This ointment was separated into two types¨Cthe blue was used to reduce swelling, and he had used it on her before, while the red was used to stop bleeding.


    He finally found the red one and removed the cork. Spreading it on his fingers, he separated her thighs and inserted his fingers inside. After a while, the flow of blood decreased.


    His tight brows somewhat loosened, and his fingers once again scooped up some ointment and spread it inside her.


    Ning xiang lu was the panacea of the imperial clan and its value was in several thousand taels. He had spent quite a bit of effort to obtain one set from a person of high rank, but if it could cure her, he would not hesitate one bit to use it all.


    It was only at this moment that he discovered he was naked from head to toe. Putting on the clean clothes that Nuan Chun had placed at the head of the bed, he then dressed his wife in soft women¡¯s pajamas and brushed her messy hair that was splayed over the pillow. Glancing at the still pale complexion, his heart twisted as if a large boulder was pressing down on him.


    He wasn¡¯t sure how long after until he heard the sound of footsteps on the staircase. It seemed the person was in a hurry, loudly stamping on the steps so that the noise echoed¨Cdong dong.


    ¡°Why is it only one person?¡± Yun Shi Yi¡¯s forehead wrinkled a little. He abruptly felt his brother was hateful¨Che had told him to do such a little matter yet he couldn¡¯t do it right!


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s yell suddenly came from outside: ¡°The physician is here.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi walked to the door and pushed it open, and saw Yun Shi Wei walk in with an old and gray-haired man on his back.


    ¡°Why all the rush? Yes, you, running through the streets like that during the middle of the night while carrying this old one, causing these old bones to become all scattered.¡± The elderly physician resentfully prattled as he got off Yun Shi Wei¡¯s back and staggered in the direction of the bed. ¡°Is this the patient that requires treatment? Let me see, en, looks like she¡¯s still breathing so she shouldn¡¯t be dead.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi saw that the physician was an elderly man with dim eyes where even walking required strenuous effort. At such an old age, Yun Shi Yi feared the man¡¯s memory and mind was not clear. How could he feel reassured letting this man treat his wife?


    He coldly looked towards his own brother.


    Yun Shi Wei hurriedly explained: ¡°I asked the inn¡¯s assistant before I left. This physician¡¯s medical skills are very good. I went to the medical hall but there was no one there so then I went to his house and dragged him off his bed.¡±


    ¡°Young man, you still have the gall to say this? You smashed my door and made a mad dash here, really without manners. This old one is telling you now¨Cyou¡¯ve gone and snatched me here and I can let it be, but you have to pay me double to compensate for my broken door.¡± The old physician continued muttering to himself as he reached the bed.


    ¡°You can rest assured, old man. As long as you can cure my wife, don¡¯t mention a door, even if you want my life, I¡¯d give it to you.¡± Yun Shi Wei quickly moved a chair over for him to sit.


    ¡°What does this old man want your life for? This old man wants money.¡± The physician replied irritably.


    Yun Shi Yi walked over and bowed respectfully to the old man: ¡°May this esteemed one feel her pulse. If the treatment is successful, this humble one is willing to richly thank this esteemed one.¡±


    ¡°That could be regarded as a tempting offer.¡± The old physician lifted up a withered, experienced hand and placed it on top of Ruan Zhu¡¯s delicate wrist. As he felt her pulse, his forehead wrinkled. Finished with her right hand, he pulled over her left hand to feel that pulse as well.


    Yun Shi Yi stared at them unblinkingly, a heavy look on his face. His eyes were dark pools without a hint of light, revealing his profound distress and nervousness.


    ¡°Esteemed one, how are things? What happened to my spouse? Why hasn¡¯t she woken yet, nothing¡¯s happened to her, right?¡± Yun Shi Wei impatiently asked as he searched for a crack to squeeze through.


    The old physician lightly snorted hmph: ¡°There¡¯s something wrong with you but there¡¯s nothing wrong with her.¡±


    ¡°Esteemed One, is my wife¡¯s situation critical or not?¡± There was a ray of hope in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes. Hearing the physician¡¯s retort against his brother, his melancholy mood had become a little better.


    The old physician unhurriedly picked up the teacup on the table by the bed to drink a mouthful of herbal tea, not caring if it had been prepared for him or not. After drinking his fill, he cleared his throat: ¡°This little girl is qi-deficient and yang-deficient, causing her veins and arteries to be sluggish. As her levels of yang are low, her heart is only weakly pumping out blood. Ironically, her yin blood is also lacking and not enough to fill the blood vessels. Her yin and yang are imbalanced, which is another reason why her pulse is so weak; her inner organs are not functioning properly; she experiences dizziness, a ringing in her ears, fears the cold, has a sore back and waist with no strength in her legs; and in general, lacks strength. Rest assured, it can be regarded as you fortunately running into this one. It is not a big matter. She will wake after eating my medicine for a while. But don¡¯t think that with this, all is fixed. She will need to steadily adjust her body and recuperate for many years to fully recover.¡±[a]


    Yun Shi Yi was reassured and a faint smile emerged on his face: ¡°Shi Wei, prepare the brush and ink and wait for the esteemed one to prescribe medicine.¡±


    ¡°All right.¡± Yun Shi Wei straightforwardly responded and went to prepare the Four Treasures of the Study.


    ¡°If Esteemed One could please come this way.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi invited the old physician to take a seat next to the desk against the window. Spreading out fine paper, Yun Shi Wei personally ground ink. Once that was complete, Yun Shi Yi dipped the brush into it: ¡°Esteemed One, my wife¡¯s body is frail, so trouble Esteemed One to write out a few more supplementary medicines. Ginseng, tuckahoe, Chinese knotweed, none of that is an issue. As long as they can cure her, expense is not an issue.¡±


    The old physician looked at him and unhurriedly stated: ¡°There is no rush to supplement her bod. I will first prescribe some fetus stabilizing medicine. In any case, I can¡¯t let the just-conceived child disappear just like that!¡±


    Yun Shi Yi blankly stared at him. His eyes abruptly widened in shock and he quickly stood up: ¡°Esteemed One, what did you say? Conceived child? What child?!¡±


    The wrinkled face of the old physician creased into a smile for a brief moment before fading: ¡°This little girl is expecting, and it¡¯s already been two months. You unexpectedly actually don¡¯t know? Or is it that your wife is pregnant with someone else¡¯s child and you, as the principal husband, was too disinclined to notice, causing her to almost have a miscarriage? Let me tell you, if you have mistreated your wife, this old one will indeed report you to the authorities.¡±


    The women of this era were rare and extremely precious, thus the imperial court had immediately passed down a set of decrees to protect them. If these decrees were violated, the offenders would be punished according to the severity of their case.


    Inside Ruan Zhu¡¯s belly was his own flesh and blood. He was going to be a father!


    Yun Shi Yi was lightheaded from the sudden joyous news and his face expressed his unfeigned and sincere astonishment. Afterwards, his eyes narrowed into slits and his mouth stretched to his ears, his teeth flashing with the light as he foolishly laughed out heh heh heh.


    The old physician gloomily wrinkled his brows. This Mister seemed to be a rather astute man, but why did he feel that this man was currently no different from his brother, a pair of idiots? He thought this in his heart and his mouth continued to jabber: ¡°When the wife is pregnant, you still let her receive such a severe injury, it can be seen that you guys ordinarily are too thoughtless. This old man is telling you now, this time you were lucky and the child did not disappear. If there is another time where the injury is so severe that she bleeds, don¡¯t even mention the child being gone, just saving her little life would be a hard enough feat. Two husbands, a pair of fools, ah I¡¯ll stop. This old one can be considered to be playing the lute for cows[b].¡±


    ¡°The Esteemed One¡¯s teaching is correct, this humble one is to blame. There certainly will not be another time.¡± Yun Shi Yi happily finished dipping the Huzhou brush pen in the ink and respectfully handed it over.


    The prescription was written, the treatment fee was handed over, and the old physician was respectfully sent home.


    Yun Shi Wei took the initiative to get medicine. At this moment, it was already very late and all the shops had basically closed, but this was not a problem for him. Even if he had to break open all the shops, he would do so to ensure the medicine was in his hands.


    Yun Shi Yi sat by the head of the bed, looking at his wife¡¯s face as he thought about how she was carrying his child but had to bear such pain that he had supported. For the first time in his life, he detested himself. If he had taken note and been a little more attentive, it was possible that he could have prevented such a thing from happening.


    He picked up her hand and placed it on his own face, lightly rubbing against it. Starting from this tender and small hand, he traced the blood vessels as they led to her abdomen, and in a split second, a sort of deep, intimate feeling welled up in his heart.


    It was the middle of the night when Ruan Zhu regained consciousness. Among the hazy cloud of sleep, she felt a bitter liquid entering her mouth and traveling down her throat. It was indeed bitter, ah, so bitter her tongue went numb. She wrinkled her eyebrows, doing her best to desperately shake her head while keeping her mouth shut to prevent even more of the liquid from entering her system.


    She heard a voice from a far away place:


    ¡°This won¡¯t do. You hold the bowl of medicine, I¡¯ll feed her with my mouth.¡±


    Another person¡¯s voice sounded in reply:


    ¡°Understood, Eldest Brother. You should hurry and feed Spouse the medicine so that she can quickly recover.¡±


    A pair of strong arms picked her up into his embrace and a gentle sensation stuck to her. What a refreshing taste! She involuntarily opened her mouth but received a bitter liquid from the man¡¯s mouth. No, I don¡¯t want to drink this! But the taste of the man was so refreshing. She swallowed the liquid in her mouth, her tongue reaching to lick the man¡¯s mouth. But he actually moved away from her. Though he quickly blocked her mouth again, it was merely to deliver another mouthful of the bitter liquid¡­¡­


    Eventually, she finished drinking all the medicine that the other person kept feeding her. Tiredness attacked her and she once again slept.


    Yun Shi Yi stared unblinkingly at the sleepy face for a long while.


    ¡°Eldest Brother.¡± From the beginning, Yun Shi Wei had stood by the side and had had to muster his courage to call out that one phrase.


    ¡°En.¡± Yun Shi Yi turned his head to look at him and insipidly said a word: ¡°Problem?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei stammered: ¡°No¡­¡­nothing.¡± He had only been wearing a single pair of trousers ever since he went to ¡®invite¡¯ the physician over. During his mad sprint, he had perspired quite a bit, and in addition, had dust all over his body. To be honest, regarding his current situation, if others didn¡¯t know, they¡¯d think he was a refugee that had come from a who-knows-where mountainous region.


    ¡°Go wash. If Zhu Zhu were to see you like this, there would be words to say.¡± Yun Shi Yi paused and then added: ¡°When you¡¯re done, go sleep in your own room. During this period, don¡¯t sleep here.¡±


    ¡°Understood, Eldest Brother.¡± Yun Shi Wei agreed, not daring to go against him. Before turning around to leave, he gave a lingering glance at the delicate female in the bed, his entire face full of remorse.


    Yun Shi Yi got up to blow out the candle. Getting into the bed, he pulled his wife into his arms, feeling perfectly content, falling asleep not long after.


    Ruan Zhu slept very soundly and only opened her eyes the morning of the next day. Rubbing her drowsy eyes, she saw Yun Shi Yi reading a book by the head of the bed. She once again looked around the room and with an ¡°Aiya!¡± sat up on the bed.


    Yun Shi Yi was alarmed and quickly put down his book, standing up to steady her, repeatedly saying: ¡°Careful, careful, don¡¯t stretch it. Take your time, you¡¯re a mother in the making. What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean ¡®mother in the making¡¯?¡± Ruan Zhu pushed him away and remembered their situation while she looked for her shoes: ¡°Oh no, it¡¯s already this time yet we¡¯re not on the road. Really, procrastinating like this, how long would it take us to hurry to the destination?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi saw her pushing him away and didn¡¯t want to use strength against her so lifted her up with both his hands, holding her entirely in his arms: ¡°You troublesome little imp, never having an obedient moment. Let me tell you, we don¡¯t have to go there. Properly care for your body for me, consume tonics, and end up white and plump to give me a son, no, the best would be to birth me a daughter. In their lifetime, Father and Mother do not have a daughter so they will definitely be delighted when the time comes.¡±


    Unable to make heads or tails out of it, Ruan Zhu stared at him, her slim fingers poking his forehead: ¡°You haven¡¯t gone silly, right? I¡¯m not pregnant so how could I give you a child? First a son and then a daughter, your daydream is quite wonderful.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s lips curved up, his expression a little helpless. His little wife was only fifteen years old, basically still considered a child, so it was still pardonable for her not to know. But as he was a mature adult male, if he also didn¡¯t know, then he would be asking for a beating. He placed his right hand on top of her abdomen, his expression tender: ¡°My wife, you are carrying this husband¡¯s flesh and blood right here. The physician came to see you yesterday and it has already been confirmed.¡±


    Ruan Zhu gaped in astonishment. She put her hand on top of her own belly and felt around, feeling more bewildered with every moment: ¡°But it¡¯s still rather flat here, not like someone who is pregnant.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi rapped her forehead: ¡°It¡¯s only been two months. How large do you want it to be?¡±


    Comprehending, Ruan Zhu nodded her head: ¡°That¡¯s true. It slowly gets bigger and only after the tenth month would it be born.¡± She carefully recalled the physiology course she took in junior high: ¡°I remembered, pregnant women do not have their monthly cycles. No wonder I thought something fishy was going on during this period! I thought it was just my cycle being abnormal~¡±


    Yun Shi Yi rapped her forehead again, gravely saying: ¡°Problems with your body occurred yet you don¡¯t tell this husband. Say, how should I punish you?¡±


    ¡°Punish me? Don¡¯t, for I have to give birth to your child.¡± With a bitter face, Ruan Zhu countered but suddenly cried out: ¡°But whose child is this? It shouldn¡¯t be Second Cousin¡¯s, right?¡± Saying it like this, her face promptly turned white. If it was Yun Shi Wei, it would be awful. She wasn¡¯t willing for her first child to be from someone that was not her beloved man.


    ¡°How does your brain function? This husband really wants to open it for a look. You look like a rather intelligent person but sometimes also seem remarkably silly. Didn¡¯t I already tell you that before marriage, Shi Wei ate the contraceptive? Eating it once is enough for a whole year. All secondary husbands of Tian Chu have this kind of rule. How your own mother and her concubines did it, and things from your childhood that you read and heard, you can still forget. This husband can be counted as truly admiring you.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi used an expression of hating iron for not becoming steel[c] to look at her. It appeared she was foolish beyond redemption.


    She wrapped her arms around his neck, a dazzling smile on her face: ¡°Husband Lord, I am very happy. This is your child, our child.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes were also completely filled with happiness. He silently carried her, full of joy, and finally smiled as he sat next to the head of the bed, placing her on his lap. Reaching out to reveal the covered food on the side table: ¡°This is the food that Nuan Chun just sent in. It¡¯s still warm. This husband will feed you. After you¡¯re done eating, drink some more fetus stabilizing medicine.¡±


    Ruan Zhu initially wanted to say that she wouldn¡¯t drink any bitter medicine but suddenly remembered last night¡¯s hazy matter: ¡°I want you to feed me the medicine.¡±


    ¡°Okay. As long as Wife asks for it, this husband will agree.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡­¡± She extended her fingers and lightly touched his lips, two beautifully red spots appearing on her cheeks: ¡°¡­want you to use this to feed me.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes flashed with a joyous light: ¡°This husband is most willing.¡±


    [a] Qi is the energy that all things are created out of; Yang and Yin are two parts of this energy that are opposites of each other. Yang can refer to the sun; open spaces; masculinity while yin is the moon; overcast areas; femininity. Entire paragraph basically sums down to: RZ¡¯s body is weak so that¡¯s why she fainted.


    [b] ¶ÔÅ£µ¯ÇÙ, idiom meaning preaching to deaf ears; offering something to an unappreciative audience


    [c] ºÞÌú²»³É¸Ö, idiom meaning to feel resentful towards somebody for failing to meet expectations and impatient to see improvement

 Chapter 37

    As Ruan Zhu¡¯s body was still weak from earlier, she could only have liquid food. After eating a bowl of rice porridge and a few bites of the offered appetizers, she was full.


    Yun Shi Yi hid his smile and grabbed a piece of carp with his chopsticks. Before it even reached her, she started heaving and almost vomited on the floor after turning her head away. Yun Shi Yi rushed to lightly pat her on the back: ¡°If you don¡¯t want to eat, don¡¯t eat.¡±


    After she finished coughing, Ruan Zhu leaned against him and took large breaths, weakly saying: ¡°The fishy smell is very strong. I cannot eat it in the future.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi wiped her mouth with his handkerchief, deep self-blame flashing across his face: ¡°I was truly muddled. It turns out your pregnancy symptoms had already flared during our meal at Yu Ping Restaurant but I actually didn¡¯t realize it.¡±


    If he had discovered it, he wouldn¡¯t have let her become hurt. He was guilty of this incident. Thinking of her bloody appearance last night, his heart twisted again.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to blame yourself. Didn¡¯t I also not realize it?¡± Without personal experience, who would know about this sort of thing? She had never given birth before and he was also a young man.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the same. You¡¯re still a child.¡±


    Ruan Zhu wanted to say she was already eighteen years old, already an adult, but she couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°I was in such a rush yesterday that I forgot to ask the physician that treated you about what we should pay attention to regarding a pregnant woman¡¯s diet. When I have time tomorrow, I¡¯ll go find him.¡± Yun Shi Yi picked up Ruan Zhu and placed her on the bed. ¡°Lay down and rest for a while. Later, when Nuan Chun has finished simmering the medicine, this husband will feed you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu laid down and once again, felt somewhat exhausted. Her belly started to ache dully and her eyebrows faintly wrinkled, her face paler than just a moment ago.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Yun Shi Yi became nervous. ¡°Do you feel unwell again?¡±


    Ruan Zhu lifted her thick eyelashes and lightly smiled at him: ¡°Don¡¯t make a fuss about nothing. I was just a little tired and will be fine after I rest.¡±


    He had a very complicated look on his face and after considering for a while: ¡°I don¡¯t believe you. I had better invite that physician over to feel your pulse!¡±


    Ruan Zhu was frustrated: ¡°I¡¯m really all right. It was merely some heaving and my stomach hurting may be from bloating. How is that serious?¡±


    ¡°It hurts again?¡± Yun Shi Yi was terrified and his heart trembled: ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say so earlier?¡±


    The words the elderly physician had said yesterday still rang in his head: This old man is telling you now, this time you were lucky and the child did not disappear. If there is another time where the injury is so severe that she bleeds, don¡¯t even mention the child being gone, just saving her little life would be a hard enough feat.


    ¡°Shi Wei, Shi Wei, hurry and invite the physician over, Zhu Zhu¡¯s in pain again¡­¡­¡±


    With large steps, Yun Shi Yi reached the door in a blink of an eye and went out.


    Why was he like this? I¡¯ve already said there¡¯s nothing wrong. It was merely that the wife was pregnant. Were all the males of Tian Chu as on edge as him? When she was in high school, her seven-months-pregnant language teacher still insisted on working and squeezing into the public buses with her big belly.


    After a few minutes, Yun Shi Yi returned with an extra bowl of medicine in his hands: ¡°I¡¯ve asked Shi Wei to invite the physician over. He runs fast so the physician will be here soon. You should drink this medicine first. I¡¯ve put honey in it so it¡¯s not bitter at all.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was just about to sit up by supporting herself with the bed but who would have guessed Yun Shi Yi would abruptly yell: ¡°Don¡¯t move!¡±


    She stopped moving, awkwardly supporting her half-raised upper body with an elbow. She looked at him in astonishment and wanted to ask¨Cwas this 9/11, did the space shuttle Challenger crash, or did the USA declare war on everyone?[a] Requesting this esteemed male to please not be so flustered¨Cit¡¯s really scary!


    Yun Shi Yi walked over. Carrying the bowl of medicine in one hand, he used the other to bring her back into his arms: ¡°Don¡¯t randomly move if I am not by your side. Look out for the child in your belly. If by chance you injure yourself and start bleeding profusely, it is not a big matter if the child is gone as we can just have another one. But what will happen if something occurs to you? That physician said¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Said what?¡± She had been affected by his emotions and obediently stayed in his arms, not daring to move.


    ¡°Nothing. He said you have to properly raise the fetus.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi had a smile on his face. Raising the bowl of medicine, he took a big mouthful and gestured with his eyes at his wife.


    Ruan Zhu thought of last night and her face flushed. In addition to a soft shine in her slightly curved eyes, there was also sincere adoration. She spread open her arms and clasped them behind his neck, tilting her head up as she opened her red mouth and aimed upwards, their lips coming into contact. From his mouth, she received a liquid that she subsequently swallowed. Even with the addition of the honey, the medicine was still bitter, but she drank it all, one mouthful at a time. When all the medicine was gone, she felt that she wanted to continue, so licking his lips, she pressed her lips to his again¡­¡­


    Her body was still weak so in a short while, she was tired and panting for breath while her forehead was covered in tiny beads of sweat. Yun Shi Yi paused and placed her back on the bed, gently reprimanding: ¡°Be good and relax, you must not make trouble.¡±


    ¡°I am not that delicate. Also, who has ever heard of a woman lying down all day for the sake of giving birth to a child? A person would break from all of that lying down. When my grandma gave birth to my mother, it was even in a wheat field, and then after that she¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu muttered in a small voice and unconsciously let her mind wander again. It wasn¡¯t until she saw Yun Shi Yi¡¯s puzzled and suspicious eyes that she understood what she had just said and hurriedly tried to correct herself: ¡°Ah, my grandma has a neighbor that gave birth to their child in a wheat field, and I heard that after they gave birth, they went back to cutting wheat.¡±


    In the 1960s, everyone was poor. There were no contraceptive measures so it was not unusual for a family to have eight to ten children. Rural women suffered even more. Not only did they have to take care of their husband¡¯s parents and do housework, they even had to undertake back-breaking agricultural work labor. She really didn¡¯t know how they were able to withstand all of that.


    Her most impactful memory was of a family that had come to her city from the south as they fled the family planning policy[b] and rented a house near hers. That family¡¯s wife had five daughters in succession. After just giving birth to the fifth daughter, the wife had promptly tidied up and started preparing dinner for her husband that was about to get off work.


    Now that she was thinking of this, it seemed inconceivable, but it was indeed true.


    Disdain showed in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes and he spurnfully said: ¡°The males of that family should be damned. Mistreating their wife is a big crime. They should be reported to the authorities and caned.¡±


    Caned? Ruan Zhu shook her head. It wasn¡¯t possible. The Chinese thinking of ¡®man is regarded as superior to woman¡¯ has several thousand years of history. One could prettily say that women currently have an equal part in society, but on the Internet, one could still see wives being mistreated or even beaten to death.


    Ruan Zhu closed her eyes to rest. After a while, she heard noises pounding against the stair, a door opening, and an aged voice impatiently nagging: ¡°It¡¯s only been one night so what are you fussing me for? How can this weary old body be able to endure being jolted back and forth like this? Humph! If the silver isn¡¯t doubled, this physician will quit!¡±


    After a few more complaints, the inner door opened and Yun Shi Wei appeared with the same white-haired and white-whiskered old man from yesterday. Entering, he put the elderly man down, his movements extremely coarse, causing the old man to stagger: ¡°Aiyo, you reckless fellow lacking in character, this old man¡¯s waist¡­¡­¡±


    It was as if Yun Shi Wei had not heard him. Running towards the bed, his entire face was filled with nervousness: ¡°Spouse, what¡¯s wrong, is it critical?¡±


    Ruan Zhu saw that his brow was beaded with sweat and thought that he must had ran through quite a few streets. Coupled with having to carry a living person, it must not have been easy: ¡°I am all right, don¡¯t worry. Go wash your face, hmm? Eldest Cousin¡¯s clothes are in the trunk, change into a set when you¡¯re done washing.¡± His current clothes had been soaked through with sweat¨Cit must be very unpleasant.


    ¡°En, I¡¯ll go now.¡± Yun Shi Wei promised with his mouth but he didn¡¯t move from his spot. He fixed his eyes on her, his eyes filled with guilt and remorse. Ruan Zhu was just about to console him but heard the old physician¡¯s prattling complaints:


    ¡°Hmph! ¡®I am all right¡¯? Is it awfully fun to drag this old man in such a rush if you are all right? You all are really idle to lose your head like this.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi bowed in greeting towards the elderly physician: ¡°Esteemed One, my wife truly feels pain in her abdomen. Trouble you to please feel her pulse and for Esteemed One to please forgive my younger sibling for his offense. Later, this one will surely doubly compensate Esteemed One¡¯s losses.¡±


    ¡°This is not bad.¡± The elderly physician walked towards the bed and pulling Ruan Zhu¡¯s arm over, felt her pulse for a while: ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong; however, her body is tired and physically weak. Pay more attention to resting. After the evening meal, you cannot be too drained. Being tired will cause your qi and blood to congeal and can easily cause your qi to stray, causing stomach pain.¡±


    Ruan Zhu put her hand down and faintly said: ¡°Many thanks to Esteemed One. I feel much better after having the medicine. Including how we have disturbed you twice, I have inconvenienced you.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was still not reassured: ¡°Uncle, there¡¯s really nothing wrong with my Spouse?¡±


    The elderly physician glared at him and huffed: ¡°Boy, you dare to not believe in this old man¡¯s medical skills? Let me tell you, this old man has been in this profession for a lifetime. In this area with a radius of several hundred li, this one is the famous half-immortal Liu[c]. As long as the patient still has breath, I can keep him alive.¡±


    ¡°Half-immortal Liu. Why does that sound like fortune-telling?¡±


    Ruan Zhu murmured this in a soft voice, under the impression that the elderly physician could not hear her. But unexpectedly, his ear was incredibly sharp.


    The elderly physician laughingly said: ¡°This little wife is actually quite intelligent. This old man was certainly a fortune teller during adolescence and later changed profession to a physician. Does the little wife want to have her fortune told? I see this little wife is humble and courteous and her words are also pleasant to hear. How about I introduce you to a good marriage predestined by fate! There is a nephew in my family that is not bad; his appearance is good and he also knows martial arts¡­¡­¡±


    Ai, didn¡¯t he say he would divine her fortune? Why was he beginning to act as a matchmaker?


    ¡°Cough¡­¡­Shi Wei, bring over the medical fee for the Esteemed One and send him back.¡± Yun Shi Yi felt that the words were not pleasant to his ears and let his brother send away the other man as an excuse.


    The elderly physician received the medical fee but wasn¡¯t willing to leave, muttering to himself about how he hadn¡¯t talked enough and was finally pulled out by Yun Shi Wei.


    Yun Shi Yi covered Ruan Zhu with the brocade quilt and instructed Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing to come in and clean the room.


    The two men cleared away the empty dishes and chopsticks before properly tidying up for a while.


    In the end, Yun Shi Yi had them both leave and securely closed the door, saying that if there was nothing important, no one was allowed to enter and cause trouble.


    Turning his head and solemnly looking at his wife: ¡°You also heard the elderly physician¡¯s words. Your body is weak and you have to pay more attention to resting at all times. If in the future you feel uncomfortable anywhere, you must remember to clearly tell this husband.¡±


    ¡°I got it. Ai, how could I have not realized? My Husband Lord is so long-winded just like an old grandma. I had always thought he was a rather strong lady-killer.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi only half understood her words and gave her an inexpressible look. He ultimately shook his head and took it as her hometown dialect.


    Ruan Zhu thought a bit: ¡°Eldest Cousin! Later, let¡¯s let Second Cousin come over, hmm?¡±


    She admits, she was softhearted. Seeing him so depressed, she felt as if she had committed some major crime.


    This era¡¯s ¡®one woman, many husbands¡¯ policy truly satisfied a woman¡¯s vanity, but it was also extremely hard to be able to carry a bowl of water without causing any ripples. It is said that the great stallion Xiang Shao Long, after entering the Qin dynasty, had swindled over a dozen beautiful maidens into begging to sleep with him. Among those females he had tried to swindle included Meng Jiang Nu. Ai, Meng Jiang Nu, you had said, ¡®what are you trying to exploit?¡¯ You really are my idol, ah![d]


    ¡°What are you thinking of, hmm?¡±


    ¡°Meng Jiang Nu¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu spoke without thinking. In her mind, she was wondering, when the great stallion confronted the dozen beautiful maidens, how did he do it?

 Chapter 38

    Glossary


    ³ß | chi | a Chinese foot, about one-third of a meter


    Meng Jiang Nu! Yun Shi Yi shook his head, knowing his wife liked to go off on mental daydreams: ¡°Shi Wei almost cost you your life. Why should we let him come over?¡±


    ¡°The two of you continuing to be in a deadlock is not a solution. After all, aren¡¯t we one family?¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes moved as if she had just been struck with a thought. Pointing at a trunk in the corner of the room: ¡°Bring me the red mahogany case from inside that chest.¡±


    This time, they had brought quite a bit of luggage with them when they left the residence, and there were several trunks dedicated solely to knick-knacks. The ancient era was not the same as modern times. A lot of time and money were required for a trip and as a result, journeys frequently resembled daily life.


    ¡°What are you doing, moving your head around instead of properly resting?¡±[a] Although Yun Shi Yi grumbled, he still retrieved the red mahogany case for her. It was rather conspicuous and seemed a bit familiar. He recalled that this was the chastity belt his little wife had bought several days ago in Lan Zhou. ¡°You intend to have Shi Wei wear this?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t believe him it¡¯s quite fitting for him to wear one?¡± An evil smile hung on her lips, as she thought about his rash nature that had caused her to be this miserable merely because he wanted to satisfy his fiery lust. A fire ignited in her heart. Opening the lid, she lifted the gold chastity belt and placed it underneath the brocade mattress before handing the case back.


    ¡°It should be this way.¡± Yun Shi Yi¡¯s mind came around. If they locked up Shi Wei¡¯s heat source, he¡¯d like to see how he created trouble in the future.


    ¡°His strength is so large, he wouldn¡¯t break this one as well, right?¡± Ruan Zhu remembered what had happened the day she had bought the belts and was a little worried.


    ¡°If he dares to break it, I¡¯ll shear off his jewels.¡± Yun Shi Yi laughed and put away the red mahogany case. His eyes overflowing with excitement, ¡°I¡¯ll go call Shi Wei over.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was staying next door in Sky Room #2[b]. Pushing aside the door and entering, Yun Shi Yi found that he was currently bathing. Delivering Ruan Zhu¡¯s words, Yun Shi Wei became wild with joy.


    Having said everything, Yun Shi Yi departed and caught sight of Nuan Chun in the corridor. Recalling that his mother had always liked to eat sour fruits when she had been pregnant with his little brothers, he instructed him to buy some fruits for the Eldest Lady and to select for more sour ones.


    Nuan Chun responded in agreement and returned to the room for some money before leaving.


    Yun Shi Yi also made to return to the room but happened to meet another person in the corridor.


    A square kerchief was on the man¡¯s head and he was dressed in spotless white clothes. Well-defined facial features, fair skin that lightly shone and eyes that flashed with an amber light, his height was around eight chi and a guqin case was tucked under his right arm.


    Yun Shi Yi recognized this man. Over half a month ago, in the large hall of Yu Ping Restaurant, the other party was exiting while he and his wife were entering. Although he had only hurriedly glimpsed at the other, the other had paid extreme attention to his wife which had aroused his vigilance at that time.


    That person seemed to have also recognized him and looked over in a daze.


    Yun Shi Yi expressionlessly side-stepped him and entered his room.


    He did have the intention to arrange more concubines for his wife, but establishing a concubine was one thing and someone constantly thinking about his wife was another. His beloved woman being coveted by another male¨Cno matter who it was, they would also not be delighted by this matter.


    Lu Piao Xiang looked at the figure that gradually disappeared from his view, and unconsciously followed him. Standing by the entrance of their room, he heard the sound of a woman speaking. The voice was soft and sweet, precisely the one who had recited the poem on the pleasure boat.


    He dazedly stood there for quite a while before finally going down the stairs and handing over his room keys to the assistant at the front desk.


    ¡°Assistant, check out.¡±


    ¡°Guest, the numbered Sky Rooms are expensive. Guest has stayed for four nights so the total is four hundred coins.¡±


    ¡°No need for change.¡± Lu Piao Xiang threw over a silver coin.


    The assistant was so happy his face was all scrunched up. This silver coin was one tael! Subtracting the room fee, there was still enough left over to equal a month of his wages. As the owner was not here, he could feel free to take the change for himself.


    While the assistant was settling the accounts, Lu Piao Xiang took this opportunity to ask: ¡°There is a young couple staying in Sky Room #1?¡±


    ¡°Replying to Gentleman, they only arrived last night. Their family¡¯s little wife is sick and it looks to be quite severe as from beginning to end, they¡¯ve invited the physician over twice. It¡¯s really caused the men of the family to be scared out of their minds. May the Heavens bless them and bless us, please may she not die in our inn.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s face was originally as cold as ice but upon hearing those words, the severe look in his eye wavered and he faintly said: ¡°Call over the innkeeper.¡±


    ¡°May I ask what Mister requires me for?¡±


    Just at that moment, the innkeeper had walked inside and responded He knew that this Mister was quite liberal with his money but was rather cold and did not like to pay attention to others.


    ¡°I never want to see this person again.¡± Lu Piao Xiang threw a silver banknote at the innkeeper.


    The innkeeper felt faint after grabbing the silver banknote. A hundred taels! Even if he opened up this kind of inn in all nooks and crannies of this world, he wouldn¡¯t be able to earn this sum in a year. He hurriedly nodded his head and groveled: ¡°Gentleman can rest assured, I will dismiss him this instant. That small one also does not understand the rules and often takes my food and steals my things. He has not been pleasing to my eyes for a long time now.¡±


    The assistant was greatly alarmed: ¡°Paternal Uncle, I am your nephew, you can¡¯t do this to me.¡±


    ¡°This old one has many nephews and won¡¯t miss one such as you. Scram.¡±


    ¡°Innkeeper, I am no longer checking out from Sky Room #3.¡±


    With the guqin case still tucked under his arm, Lu Piao Xiang walked back in the direction he came from.


    ¡°However long Esteemed Gentleman wants to stay is no problem! Xiao Er, hurry and change this Mister¡¯s bedding and tea set into new ones.


    The innkeeper bowed deeply and watched as the cold-faced Mister ascended the stairs before turning to the ex-assistant and scolding: ¡°You still haven¡¯t scrammed, you disgusting and annoying thing?¡±


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Yun Shi Yi pushed open the door and entered, just to see his wife climbing down from atop the bed. He hastily walked over and hugged her: ¡°Your body hasn¡¯t fully recovered yet so what are you doing? Hurry and lay back down on the bed and rest. You really make it so that I worry about you all the time.¡±


    ¡°But I need to use the toilet.¡± Ruan Zhu innocently looked at him. This entire day, her belly had been stuffed with porridge and medicine so her not having to resolve bodily needs would be too bizarre. ¡°One needs to relieve oneself. You won¡¯t block one¡¯s path, right?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s easy to handle. This husband will carry you there.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ruan Zhu shook her head with all her might. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about this, I can go by myself.¡± From the start of her memories, there has never been a man that had accompanied her to the restroom, much less carry her there.


    ¡°Which part of your body has this husband not seen? Wife, don¡¯t be embarrassed and don¡¯t try to go to the lavatory. In the back of the room, there is a readily available chamber pot so you can just settle yourself there.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi pulled off her pants and rolled her skirt up before picking up the soft and tender body and entering the back room through the connecting door.


    The layout of the inn was quite rational. There was a bathroom connected to each room at the back that was not too big and only meant to relieve oneself.


    Ruan Zhu was held by him in an awkward position as she solved her bodily needs. Her face turned bright red from humiliation as she listened to the pitter-patter of water but he seemed to be rather interested as he stared directly at her. When she was finished, he directly carried her back into the bedroom.


    He set her on the bed and separating her legs, wiped her ¡õ with a clean and moist towel while dawdling: ¡°Be more careful of the child in your belly. In the future, when I¡¯m not around, you must not move about in case something disastrous happens again.¡±


    Ruan Zhu scowled miserably. She had hands and feet, she knew how to use the restroom and also knew how to take care of her personal hygiene. Why was it that her personal freedom had been deprived once she became pregnant?


    ¡°I¡¯ve let Nuan Chun go buy some fruits. When he comes back, and they¡¯ve been washed, I¡¯ll give you some to eat. Those things have an effect on digestive systems and your spleen and stomach are weak, but it should be fine if you eat less and portion it out.¡±


    Even snacks had to be restricted!


    But she saw Yun Shi Yi squatting between her legs, continuously wiping her secret entrance. The more he wiped, the gentler his movements became. His fingers lightly fiddled with her flower petals: ¡°Wife, this place is very beautiful, the color is all light and shiny.¡±


    Feeling embarrassed, Ruan Zhu kept silent. But lifting her hand, she hit a stiff rod that had already grown very large and pressed against the thin silk material as if it would burst through its fetters any moment.


    The shafts of these two brothers were both extremely big. Was it that this size was relative to how strong their desire was? She placed her hand on top of it: ¡°Husband Lord, I¡¯ll rub you, okay? Once the uncomfortable heat inside your body is released, you¡¯ll feel better.¡±


    But unexpectedly, Yun Shi Yi stopped his fiddling and raised his head to look at her, his eyes stern: ¡°Rub what? You¡¯re at such a young age yet you don¡¯t follow good examples. Hurry and lie down.¡±


    This sentence again! Who was it that took the lead? And now he¡¯s acting so noble. Ruan Zhu¡¯s hand hadn¡¯t moved from his crotch; rather, she forcefully pinched his member. Yun Shi Yi sucked in a breath in pain: ¡°How could your heart be this evil?¡±


    Ruan Zhu flushed: ¡°Then I¡¯ll massage you?¡± Saying that, she once again gripped it.


    ¡°No need.¡± Yun Shi Yi waved off her small hand. If she really did massage him, how could he be able to endure it? He brought over a pair of light pink trousers for her to wear. ¡°Hurry and put this on, don¡¯t always expose your butt. If you want to entice this husband, this husband will tell you¨Cmy willpower is very strong, hmm? No more nonsense. Quickly, lie back down on the bed and properly raise the fetus. Don¡¯t take my son¡¯s life as a joke.¡±


    After having been somewhat tormented for a bit, Ruan Zhu felt a little tired and laid on the bed with her eyes closed and actually fell asleep.


    Yun Shi Yi grabbed a book to read and sat next to the bed.


    A sound came from the door and Yun Shi Wei walked over. Seeing Ruan Zhu asleep, he took the initiative to lighten his footsteps as he came inside.


    Ruan Zhu napped until afternoon. When she woke, there was only one person in the room¨CYun Shi Wei. ¡°How come only you are here? Where¡¯s Eldest Cousin?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Brother went to find the physician that treated you, saying he had some questions about the diet of pregnant women. He¡¯s been gone for quite a long while and I reckon he should be back soon.¡± As Yun Shi Wei was talking, he saw Ruan Zhu attempting to sit up and hurriedly stretched his hand over to stop her: ¡°Eldest Brother said you can¡¯t move about. If you want something, tell me and I¡¯ll do it for you.¡±


    ¡°I want to relieve myself.¡± After sleeping for such a long time, she once again needed to resolve her bodily needs. It was entirely because of all the liquid food and medicine!


    ¡°I¡¯ll carry you there.¡±


    ¡°No need to exert yourself, I can go there myself.¡± Ruan Zhu had no time to think and hurriedly refused him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, I won¡¯t do that anymore. I¡¯m already wearing the chastity belt, too. It¡¯s the one that you placed underneath the mattress. Eldest Brother had me put it on. If you don¡¯t believe me, here, touch it¡­¡­¡± Yun Shi Wei pulled her small hand over and placed it on his hip and sure enough, underneath the fine silk material of his clothing, there were metal chains. ¡°I won¡¯t break the chain. You can safeguard the key and I¡¯ll keep wearing it unless you personally unlock it one day¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Yi placed the key in her hand and she used it to lock the chastity belt. Why did she feel as if she had just done something inhuman? Looking at him with a pair of large dewy black eyes: ¡°You decided to do this?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei resolutely nodded his head: ¡°Seeing you last night, I hated myself to death. Thank the Heavens you¡¯re all right. I am very happy.¡± As he was saying this, the large man¡¯s eyes unexpectedly moistened. ¡°Zhu Zhu, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°Carry me to the lavatory.¡±


    ¡°En!¡± Yun Shi Wei wiped away his emotions and agreed. As expected, he was very well-behaved this time, obediently carrying her to solve her body¡¯s issue, his hands not roaming at all.


    After they had tidied up, Nuan Chun walked over with a plate of fruit.


    Ruan Zhu took a look. There were loquats; ginkgo nuts; pineapple; strawberries; Chinese bayberries. Luckily, she enjoyed strawberries and Chinese bayberries. Pineapples were sour but not that bad. Though it was a pity that there was only a small piece.


    èÁèË Loquats


    ÒøÐÓ Ginkgo (nuts)


    Ñî÷ Chinese bayberry


    ¡°This servant remembers that Miss has said before that strawberries and Chinese bayberries all carry insects and must be soaked in salt water to get rid of them. This servant has just followed that advice so Miss can eat them with confidence. However, Master has instructed that eating a lot will injure the stomach so these foods must be portioned.¡±


    ¡°Truly troublesome.¡± Ruan Zhu looked at the vivid color of the fruits that still had drops of water on them. Added with what could be the reaction of her being pregnant, her mouth had already watered. She was just about to extend her hand to receive the fruit plate but Yun Shi Wei had actually already accepted it on her behalf. He took the proffered dish and sent a Chinese bayberry into her mouth.


    Ruan Zhu chewed the Chinese bayberry and swallowed. The tart taste with the tiniest hint of sweetness made the nausea that she kept feeling much more endurable, and she couldn¡¯t help but to open her mouth for more¡­¡­


    Yun Shi Wei fed her another one: ¡°I heard from Eldest Brother that pregnant women need something sour to be happy. When Mother was pregnant with my little brothers, she was also like that. If you like eating these, wait til tomorrow and I¡¯ll go buy you some.¡±


    Nuan Chun interrupted: ¡°This servant did not buy the Chinese bayberries from the market. Luckily, the wife of our innkeeper knew that our Miss was pregnant and sent some over. It¡¯s just that this one is not sure what we should send back as thanks?¡±


    Ruan Zhu paused and thought for a moment: ¡°Sending money is not appropriate. Just shear off two chi of red silk from the chest and send that!¡±


    In the ancient period, silk could be used in replacement of money. Sending silk would not incur the other¡¯s dislike and would also not be considered too out of place.


    Nuan Chun complied and went to open the trunk to take the red silk.


    Ruan Zhu felt completely satisfied after finishing the fruit. Yun Shi Yi returned at night and the three of them ate the evening meal together, and then afterwards, she drank yet another bowl of medicine. When they went to sleep at night, Yun Shi Wei returned to his own room.


    In the blink of an eye, four to five days flew past. Ruan Zhu¡¯s body was much better and Yun Shi Yi allowed her to support herself with the bed and walk a few steps next to it. But if she walked more than three steps away from the bed, she was still severely ordered to stop.


    On this day, Ruan Zhu was lying on the bed, pretending she wasn¡¯t feeling well, when she heard someone playing the guqin next door¡­¡­


    [a] He actually says ¶¯ÄÔ½î which literally translates to ¡®moving your brain¡¯ and means ¡®using your brain¡¯. ¡®Moving¡¯ is crucial to tie it back to when he told her to not randomly move about and ¡®moving your brain¡¯ isn¡¯t a thing in English so yeah.


    [b] Ìì×Ö¶þºÅ·¿ I think this is a reference to a meme but I don¡¯t really know the origin so I just translated it literally as it is just a room.

 Chapter 39

    The sound of the guqin was a silk thread melodiously floating in the air, just like how an early morning breeze drifts inside from an open crack in the door. After hearing it, her originally throbbing head felt relaxed and calm.


    She supported herself against the bed, just about to sit up, when the one by her side extended their arms and set them around waist, helping her sit up. He then added a pillow behind her back and let her lean on it.


    ¡°Second Cousin, why are you the only one here? Where¡¯s Eldest Cousin?¡±


    ¡°Today is the largest market day of Mao Er Town that only happens once a month. Merchants and other commoners from the countries of Nan Ling and Tu Bo will all be present. Eldest Brother has taken Yun Shan to stroll around the markets, saying they¡¯d buy some local specialties for you.¡±


    ¡°More reckless spending. Really, what am I possibly lacking?¡± The things she ate and used¨Cwhich one of them was not the most refined and of the highest quality? Thinking of how Yun Shi Yi spent money as freely as flowing water, this man really needed to be corrected. The day before yesterday, the innkeeper¡¯s wife had visited, and taking advantage of the room being empty of others, had secretly said to her¨Cone must not become accustomed to or indulge in a man not obediently listening; ones that ought to be caned should be caned, ones that ought to kneel by the doorway should kneel by the doorway, and the wife must absolutely not overindulge in their behavior.


    At that time, she had still silently criticized¨Cthat is the men of your family that are not obedient and you could do as you pleased in having them caned, kneeling, or submerged in a pool of water, but my family¡¯s men are outstanding. But now she had the suspicions that her husband was one that did not listen. Not only do he shout at her, he also criticized her when eating¨Ceat some fruits, hmm?¨Cand restricted the amount she could eat.


    The sound of the guqin continued to flow in an undulating manner, like running water, so refreshing and clear that enriched one¡¯s sentiments. It was extremely beautiful and it was evident that the skill of the one playing was out of the ordinary. In her past society, no matter how one called it, this individual would still be regarded as a great master.


    ¡°Who is playing the guqin?¡± Ruan Zhu asked. Mao Er Town was situated at the southern border and could be considered a little backwards. The people were not distinguished and the land was not great. This area unexpectedly had such an extraordinarily talented person and it aroused her curiosity.


    ¡°It¡¯s the lunatic that lives next door to me that always hides in his room, never exiting. And even if he does leave, he ignores everyone. His face may have been infected by facial paralysis as no matter who it is, he is cold as ice. When others talk to him, he doesn¡¯t pay them much attention. Maybe he was born deaf!¡± Yun Shi Wei rather meanly said some mocking words.


    At times, he was quite an honest person, but at other times, that mouth of his was unable to stop chattering. The Yun clan all shared some similarities with each other and Yun Shi Yi was the same. Her ears have become callused from merely hearing all of his grumbling over these past few days.


    ¡°The way the guqin is played is very nice.¡± She understood that all artists had their own quirks. She had heard a lot about this in her past life and had seen quite a few as well.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu likes listening to it?¡± Yun Shi Wei was not one that understood music and only thought that bastard played the guqin loud enough to be a disturbance. He might as well go to the courtyard and practice a few rounds with his staff to be happy, but since Zhu Zhu liked it: ¡°I¡¯ll call him over for you so that he can play it in your presence.¡±


    Ruan Zhu teased him: ¡°Since they have such good skill, they must be inordinately proud of their ability. How would you be able to call them over?¡±


    ¡°Could it be that they won¡¯t accept money? Unless he is a fool, that is.¡± Yun Shi Wei didn¡¯t believe her. ¡°I¡¯ll go invite him over. If he dares to not come, I¡¯ll beat him up.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei didn¡¯t wait for Ruan Zhu to agree and pushed open the door, and left.


    This dolt. How could he even consider beating someone up?


    The other was an artist and their eyes were bound to not have sand[a], so how could he care about your few copper coins? She wanted to stop Yun Shi Wei but that guy was one who was true to his words, and his movements were faster than a rabbit.


    Ruan Zhu had thought Yun Shi Wei would certainly be met with a refusal, but he actually succeeded in inviting the guqin player over. This male was a little familiar, and she seemed to have met him somewhere before? She looked at him in bewilderment and recounted that since her transmigration, the number of people, especially men, she had met had been limited. Who could it be then?


    Author: Mister Lu fell in love with you at first sight and regarded you as a kindred soul, someone rare to come by in a lifetime. But you silly girl has actually forgotten him, you really have no conscience.


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s faint smile was like a vast clear spring as he cupped his hands towards her.


    Ruan Zhu was not allowed off the bed, so she twisted her body sideways from her position on top of the bed, and it could be counted as returning respects. She silently cursed, Yun Shi Wei, you have such a wicked heart and poisonous mouth. How was this Mister considered ¡®as cold as ice¡¯? He¡¯s clearly much more amicable than your own unsophisticated face by many-fold.


    Yun Shi Wei also thought it was strange but brushed it off. This man must have looked kindly at the amount of money he had offered. In this world, there was no one that did not love money, and his way of thinking would be forever correct.


    This dolt did not know that he had accidentally become a pimp, with the customer being his own wife. If he had known, he would have vomited up a great deal of blood without question. Not only would he be angered half to death, his elder brother Yun Shi Yi would also no longer trust him. And who knows, perhaps his family jewels would actually be cut off.


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing saw that there was a guest. When they entered, Nuan Chun went to pour tea while Nuan Qing stood beside his Miss¡¯s side.


    ¡°Madam Yun, I trust you have been well since we last met and that you have recovered from your illness?¡± A smile hung at the corners of Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s mouth, his pure and bright eyes gazing at the beautiful woman on the bed. The woman was a bit pallid from her illness, but it added to her quiet and exquisite appearance, making one sympathize with her.


    ¡°En, much better, many thanks for your concern. Second Cousin, quickly give this Mister a seat.¡± Ruan Zhu awkwardly smiled. The other knew who she was but she couldn¡¯t recall who he was.


    Lu Piao Xiang sat in front of the bed and took out his guqin from its case. This was the first time he had been so close to her and he was a little nervous. Even when he had previously played in front of the picky Emperor, he had been able to do so indifferently. But in front of her, his heart that had always been calm unexpectedly started palpitating.


    ¡°What tunes would Madam like to hear?¡± Although Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s tone was mild and rather matched his appearance, only he knew that underneath that tranquil exterior, he was cautious and reserved.


    ¡°What is Mister fond of playing?¡±


    ¡°Then, ¡®Flowing Water¡¯!¡±[b] A sublime composition where kindred souls meet that has become the most perfect song throughout the ages. She was also his kindred soul. Though he hadn¡¯t even been able to speak a single word to her as she had hurriedly left the pleasure boat, he had eternally remembered her.


    ¡®Flowing Water¡¯ was a famous song and she had heard it many times before so didn¡¯t want to hear it at this moment. She thought for a bit: ¡°How about ¡®Clouds Over the Xiao and Xiang Rivers¡¯? It is very pleasing on the ears, so how about playing this one.¡±[c]


    Lu Pixo Xiang was confused: ¡°¡®Clouds Over the Xiao and Xiang Rivers¡¯? What is that?¡± This world still had songs that he actually didn¡¯t know?


    Puzzled, Ruan Zhu looked at him and then suddenly hit her own head. How could she have been so muddled again? ¡®Clouds Over the Xiao and Xiang Rivers¡¯ was created in the final years of the Southern Song dynasty, so based off of this current era, it was evident that she had a mental lapse.[d]


    If Yun Shi Yi was here, he would mock her. Her brain had not short-circuited only this one time. He was used to it and no longer cared about it as he was numb.


    ¡°That um, you can choose as you wish. Anything you want to play is fine.¡± In any case, he was at a master level of skill and anything he played would be much better than anything she, a novice, could play.


    Lu Piao Xiang slightly hesitated and muttered to himself irresolutely before bringing both hands to rest on top of the guqin. His eyes closed as he pondered for a short moment, and when they reopened, his ten fingers lightly danced among the strings as a sparkling melody flew from his fingertips. The melodious sound of the guqin rippled gently throughout the room, resembling flowing water and a young male and female confessing their affections for each other: Young Lady, ah, can you hear the ospreys cooing as they reside in the river¡¯s sandbank? Such a kindhearted and beautiful maiden that will make a good spouse for a good man. She gathers the uneven stems of the yellow floating heart along the shore. Such a kindhearted and beautiful maiden that causes all thoughts after waking to be of her¡­¡­


    Üô²Ë | Yellow floating heart


    This Mister was playing ¡°The Cooing Ospreys¡± from the Book of Songs and the most famous lines were precisely: Coo coo¨Cospreys are singing, / on the islet of the river. / A fair maiden so charming / makes fine men¡¯s heart quiver. These four lines were printed in literature textbooks and remained fresh in Ruan Zhu¡¯s memory. (Translation by Cheng Jiahui, Cheng Sheng, and Wei Xianggang.)[e]


    Although she was quite bad at playing the violin from her past life, she had the gift of singing. On top of that, the voice of this body that she had transmigrated into was rather original, and she softly sang along with the beat of the guqin¡¯s melody. Her clear and spirited voice was soft and very pleasing on the ears, like the sound of a black-naped oriole. Accompanied by the magical guqin tone, her voice had the effect of reverberating around the rafters for three days[f]. This sort of song could only be found in the Heavens.


    Black-naped oriole | YouTube of their sound (here)


    When Yun Shi Yi returned, he felt that the voice was somewhat familiar, but he never thought it would be his wife. Even after he ascended the stairs and pushed open the doors, he still didn¡¯t realize the one singing was her.


    Gradually, the sound of the guqin stopped and the song came to an end. The sonorous voice lingered in the air, comparable to the sound of the Heavens.


    ¡°Husband Lord, you¡¯ve returned.¡±


    Just as Ruan Zhu wanted to climb off the bed, Yun Shi Yi walked over and held onto her waist: ¡°Don¡¯t recklessly move. If something happens to the child in your belly, you¡¯ll have to drink bitter medicine for a long while.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi hugged her and kissed her. Ruan Zhu was stupefied¨Cthe man had become foolish. How could he do such intimate acts in front of others? But she didn¡¯t know that Yun Shi Yi had done this on purpose.


    She pushed him away: ¡°It¡¯s already been how many days now? I¡¯ve long recovered, it¡¯s you that¡¯s making a fuss about nothing. You went out for over half the day, what did you buy back? Let me see~ Nuan Chun, come over and pour some tea for your Eldest Master. Nuan Qing, go to the chest and get¡­¡­aiya, I¡¯ve remembered it¡­¡­¡± She pointed at Lu Piao Xiang and exclaimed: ¡°You¡¯re the person that played the guqin that time on the pleasure boat! At that time, the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam had pressured me so I recited a poem capturing the essence of your playing. See, my memory is this good!¡±


    The same line, heard by different people, had different meanings.


    Lu Piao Xiang was at a loss for words. His kindred soul had actually forgotten him and it turned out he had been in a one-sided love from the beginning. He had thought this maiden was exactly the one he had been looking for and had thought about her all day and night. But the lady had essentially not remembered him at all. His ego had been slightly bruised and he felt even more disappointed.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s lips hooked upwards. It turned out his little wife¡¯s heart did not hold that man. He was secretly delighted and his heart was full of affection.


    He did not object to arranging secondary husbands for his wife, but the prerequisite was that he had to forever remain her number one.


    Lu Piao Xiang was not good at social niceties. Thinking there was no need for him to stay any longer, he cupped his hands in obeisance and took his leave.


    ¡°Ai, why did he leave? I haven¡¯t expressed my thanks yet!¡±


    Just a moment ago, she had wanted to instruct Nuan Qing to bring over ten taels of silver as thanks, but she now recognized him and the ten taels of silver was not presentable. Lu Piao Xiang was celebrated and exceedingly well-known among the nobility and other prestigious clans. How could he covet a few pieces of silver?


    Ruan Zhu saw that Lu Piao Xiang had already left, and after thinking for a bit, said towards Nuan Chun: ¡°That man does not appear to be one that prefers silver. Go to the kitchen and make a bowl of iced pineapple juice and send it over. Just say it is my way of saying thanks.¡±


    ¡°Understood, Miss. This servant will immediately go.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Brother, what did you buy for Zhu Zhu?¡± Yun Shi Wei one by one opened up the several packages that Yun Shan had carried back. ¡°Eh? So many fur pelts. Right now the summer days are sweltering. What did you buy these fur pelts for?¡±


    ¡°Saw someone selling them so I bought it. The quality of these pelts is very good and not something that you can buy in the markets of Lan Zhou.¡±


    Ruan Zhu pulled some over and touched them all, exposing an astonished expression. It was fine if it was just some fox fur but there unexpectedly was the precious tiger pelt. She wanted to ask, why was it that the tigers had almost gone extinct in the later generations? It turns out that the tigers had been stripped of their fur to make clothing by these worry-free ancient people.


    In this era, cotton had yet to become widespread. Therefore, to resist the cold of winter, the people would use fur and leather for their clothing. The average common household would not be able to afford tiger; fox; or leopard pelts and fur, but they could afford sheepskin and dog pelts. Ones that were even more destitute simply used chicken and duck down.


    Yun Shi Yi smugly looked at his wife: ¡°These few fox pelts will be used to make you a winter cape and the tiger fur will be used as a bed spread. There is nothing better than being warm in winter.¡±


    [a] ÑÛÀïÈ಻½øɳ×Ó, a twist on the idiom ÑÛ²»×ÅÉ°, which means not having someone (or something) in their eyes


    [b] Á÷Ë®, YouTube performance here


    [c] äìÏæË®ÔÆ, YouTube performance here


    [d] Southern Song dynasty was from 1127-1279. Reminder that Tang dynasty is 618-906 CE.


    [e] ¹Øö ¡°The Cooing Ospreys¡± from Ê«¾­, the Book of Songs, which is the oldest collection of Chinese poetry. English translation from English Translation for 100 Selected Chinese Ancient Classic Poems by Cheng Jiahui, Cheng Sheng, and Wei Xianggang. (Google Books, poem found on page 1)


    [f] ÈÆÁºÈýÈÕ, idiom meaning a voice is sonorous and resounding

 Chapter 40

    Glossary


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    ³ß | chi | a Chinese foot, about one-third of a meter


    Ruan Zhu carefully looked at those fur pelts. They were all real fur, not imitations. The ancient era did not have the technology to imitate things. In her previous world¡¯s large malls, those large fur overcoats had been sold with the cheapest being seven to eight thousand RMB while the good ones were worth several ten thousand RMB, maybe even hundreds of thousands RMB. Don¡¯t talk of her buying one of these, even looking twice at those coats would make her heart start palpitating.[a]


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± Yun Shi Yi saw that his wife was happy and his mood subsequently rose as well. He finally hadn¡¯t been this busy in vain.


    Ruan Zhu nodded in satisfaction and let Nuan Qing store the pelts in the chests for safekeeping.


    Nuan Qing smiled: ¡°Miss, why put them away? How about letting us two brothers make some winter clothes with them for you? It will be perfect for you to wear them in winter as protection against the cold. It is currently the sixth month. When the weather turns cold, it will be around the time when Miss¡¯s pregnancy is at the most critical and your former winter clothes would not be able to be worn at all. Later when your measurements are taken, the size has to be increased so that the clothing is not too small. In any case, we must not let the child in your belly become frozen, isn¡¯t that correct?¡±


    These words were very pleasant to hear! The corners of Yun Shi Yi¡¯s mouth exposed a smile. In the beginning, he did not have a good impression of these two bedwarmers[b] and he couldn¡¯t help now but to change his attitude: ¡°Wife, you must not be so stingy. Rather than being placed in a chest to be damaged by moths, these pelts are better off being worn to fend off the cold. Let me tell you, if by case you freeze my son to death, we¡¯ll have to settle things between us.¡±


    ¡°Three of these red fox furs are best to be made into a long cape and the remaining two arctic fox pelts can be made into a long skirt. There are some bolts of cloud brocade that we brought from Lan Zhou in the chests over there. Collect some simple colors for the material.¡± Ruan Zhu knew that Nuan Chun¡¯s and Nuan Qing¡¯s needlework was pretty good and had no worries handing over this work for them to do. Towards her own hubby: ¡°Only your son exists in your eyes¨Chey, put your hand away¡­¡­¡±


    He had placed his hand who knows when on top of her small belly, groping about, not caring at all whether there were others in the room, this pervert.


    ¡°What, I¡¯m chatting with my son.¡± Yun Shi Yi unhappily responded.


    Nuan Qing saw his Master flirting with his wife by pretending to be displeased and was unconcerned. Only Yun Shi Wei was envious as he fixed his eyes on his wife¡¯s still dainty figure, never blinking. The atmosphere in the room was warm but Ruan Zhu still hadn¡¯t realized his unnaturalness.


    After a while, Nuan Chun returned and reported that the iced pineapple juice had been sent to Sky Room #3. After that Mister had heard that this was Miss¡¯s way of saying thanks, he had been very happy and said that if Miss ever wanted to hear the guqin again, he was always respectfully waiting.


    ¡°You can all withdraw!¡±


    Yun Shi Yi sent out the two bedwarmers and knitted his brows in silence as he pondered while looking at his wife. After a long time, he finally asked: ¡°Does Wife like the one that plays the guqin?¡±


    Should it be said that Ruan Zhu was foolish? For she absolutely was not aware that her husband was jealous and casually said: ¡°He is very talented with the guqin, who wouldn¡¯t like that?¡±


    She was not referring to the like between males and females¨Cshe liked his skill. It was purely in an appreciative manner, just like how one could be fond of beautiful things. But her husband misunderstood her. ¡°What is his name and what does he do?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s called Lu Piao Xiang and he is a courtesan in Lan Zhou¡¯s red district. Because he is very skilled with the guqin, he is adored by many high-ranking Madams and Misses. That day, you had sent me to the pleasure boat for a tour around the river, but you left because you had some matters to take care of, leaving just me behind¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu spoke about what happened that day but she glossed over the matter about her poem recitation with a few sentences. After all, plagiarism was dishonorable and even though no one knew about it, she was too embarrassed to make her feat well-known.


    From the red district? Yun Shi Yi knit his brows as he hesitated. Bring a courtesan into his household, was it a blessing or a curse?


    Lu Piao Xiang. He carefully thought about this name. He had heard others bring it up before. His guqin skills were very good and he has actually been requested by all the Madams and Misses who were offsprings of famous families[c]. One song of his was worth several thousand coins, and he also looked to see whether the one that requested him was one that understood the guqin. If it was a philistine patron, he would refuse and abruptly walk away.


    Ruan Zhu had invited him to come over and play the guqin. It was reasonable to say that requesting him wasn¡¯t that easy, but he had actually came over and his mood was also not bad. There was only one thing that could explain this phenomenon¨CLu Piao Xiang had been thinking of and been concerned with his wife.


    It was still Yun Shi Wei whose thoughts were straightforward: ¡°Spouse, since you like the guqin player, do you want to take him as a secondary husband?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was perplexed: ¡°Your brain has a problem. Which eye of yours saw that I liked him? Take him as a concubine? How did you even think of this?¡± Was she like him, unable to control her ¡õ?


    ¡°But Eldest Brother just asked you and you said you liked him.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei definitely did not want another secondary husband to suddenly appear after having just been married for how long. Even regarding the matter of accepting secondary husbands, it had to wait until two or three years later when his wife had finished giving birth to his children.


    Yun Shi Yi also stared at his wife. He too wanted to know the answer to brother¡¯s question.


    Ruan Zhu was perplexed¨Cshe had said she liked him? She tilted her head as she tried to remember: ¡°What I like is his music. I never said I liked him as a person. You must not let your thoughts stray.¡±[d]


    ¡°That¡¯s great, Spouse.¡± Yun Shi Wei cheered and pounced on the bed, wrapping her in his arms, ¡°What¡¯s the point of listening to him play the guqin, it¡¯s all just ding ding dong dong noises and my rod exercises are much better. Another day when your body has fully recovered, go to the courtyard and I¡¯ll show you with my own two hands.¡±


    ¡°Hurry up and scram. Don¡¯t touch my son.¡± Yun Shi Yi quickly blocked his wife¡¯s stomach with his hand.


    But Yun Shi Wei continued to hug Ruan Zhu and refused to let go. The fragrant and soft body in his arms couldn¡¯t help but cause stirrings of love in him to ripple. He lustfully said: ¡°Spouse, don¡¯t make me leave tonight and just let me sleep by your side. I swear I won¡¯t touch you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu looked at his two begging eyes and her heart felt somewhat soft: ¡°Sleeping here tonight is fine, but you must not take off the chastity belt.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei hurriedly responded: ¡°That¡¯s fine, that¡¯s fine. I won¡¯t take it off.¡±


    Thus, the three of them slept in the same room that night. Yun Shi Wei actually kept his promise and didn¡¯t touch her. But every time Yun Shi Yi carried the just-bathed her to the bed, she could feel his burning gaze full of desire fixed on her, causing her to feel as if she had committed some gargantuan wrong.


    Another half of a month passed just like that. Ruan Zhu¡¯s body had pretty much recovered and she could now go outside for some air but had to be accompanied by someone and had been banned from the privilege of moving alone.


    Yet Ruan Zhu¡¯s experience with pregnancy was bitter beyond words. Not mentioning how she was perpetually dizzy and nauseous, she was also always sleepy. A day had twelve sichens and she usually slept for around nine of them. Yun Shi Yi worried that her always sleeping would affect her health and would take her out for a stroll every day.


    ¡°Actually, I think you shouldn¡¯t always keep watch over me. All men aspire to travel and make one¡¯s mark. You should go take care of that batch of gold-threaded Phoebe zhennan in Nan Ling. It is not convenient for me to undergo such a long and difficult trek so I¡¯ll just wait for your return in Mao Er Town. In any case, I¡¯ll have Second Cousin, Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing by my side so nothing will happen.¡±


    ¡°Your Second Cousin is a fool and those two bedwarmers, after all, are servants. How could I be at ease?¡± Yun Shi Yi wrapped his arm around his wife¡¯s waist and they slowly walked throughout town. Behind them were precisely the two aforementioned bedwarmers. Yun Shan was looking over things in the inn and they didn¡¯t know where Yun Shi Wei had gone off to.


    ¡°The most important part of doing business is enjoying the process. Furthermore, I am already well-off and that batch of wood does not mean much to me. If I renounce happiness in pursuit of money, what would be the point in living?¡± Yun Shi Yi lowered his head to look at her, ¡°These words are ones you¡¯ve said to me before. And now, you are encouraging me to leave. I¡¯m afraid that when I leave, you will feel depressed and regretful as you search for this husband.¡±


    ¡°Ai, why are you like this? I originally wanted to leave with you so that¡¯s why I had said those things. I won¡¯t say anything else, but that batch of wood is the priceless gold-threaded Phoebe zhennan. Unless your brain has become addled to want to throw them away like a pair of worn-out shoes.¡±


    To obtain gold-threaded Phoebe zhennan, the emperor of the Ming dynasty did not hesitate to send a fleet of ships across the ocean to Southeast Asia to cut them down. Hubby, could you also do this? Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart was sorely distressed.


    The young couple slowly strolled and passed a restaurant where their attention was attracted by a crowd of people surrounding the restaurant¡¯s entrance. Conspicuously among them was Lu Piao Xiang. He was the unique sort of person that no matter where he went, others would take note of, with a height of eight chi, a graceful style and beautiful appearance, a guqin case tucked under one arm, and an arrogant face. But his arrogance was not one that was assumed, it was rather innate. Although it would be wrong to call him a noble son, he possessed a bearing that actual noble sons could not compare to.


    ¡°Lu Piao Xiang, your arrogance is quite large. This prince¡¯s imperial concubine mother invited you to perform at her fiftieth birthday but you unexpectedly actually dare to not give face. Your guqin skills are extraordinary and you have fame, but what of it? Aren¡¯t you just a courtesan? What do you have to be proud of?¡±


    The one that spoke was a very elegant and tall man, his body covered with an expensive and noble air. His hair was bound by a gold-threaded laurel inlaid with precious gems; he wore a sapphire blue silk chang pao embroidered with the character ¡®ten thousand¡¯; and a bright and dazzling jade belt hung across his waist as the precious stones on it blinded the eyes of the crowd.


    Yun Shi Yi had been to many places as a result of his work and the things he knew were not few. He said in a small voice to her: ¡°That man is Xuanyuan Min Zhi, the current Emperor¡¯s youngest son, but because the vassal duke of the country of Nan Ling does not have a son, the Emperor had given him up as a child to be adopted by the Duke of Nan Ling.¡±


    The country of Nan Ling was a vassal state of Tian Chu and their duke had received the tributary title of being under the Celestial Empire. Their country had also been founded for several hundred years now.


    It¡¯s said that during the time when the Great Ancestor founded the country, he had a full younger brother that had rode a laboring horse to great deeds[e] in helping to establish the country by attacking the enemy. But the Great Ancestor did not bestow many things upon this brother and rather threatened him with dismissal. Angered, the younger brother had led his men and horses to Nan Ling and became a self-reliant duke.


    But his actions may have displeased the Heavens. Beginning from that time, successive generations of the Duke of Nan Ling have only had one successor. The numbers of secondary husbands and bedwarmers that the Duchess had were not few and she birthed quite a few sons, but eternally, there was only ever one son that was classified as his.


    But several decades ago, the Duke of Nan Ling, who was the same age as the Emperor, faced a crisis. The almost-forty years old Duke had never been able to have a son and wrote a petition to the imperial court. As an answer, the Emperor gave one of his small sons up for adoption. That son was precisely this Xuanyuan Min Zhi.


    A relative of the emperor, dragon pellet and phoenix essence[f], such a priceless moment. In her past world, the highest official Ruan Zhu had ever seen was the mayor of her city and it was when she had seen the other¡¯s silhouette when they were sitting in their BMW limousine.


    This level was no different from Hu Ge, whose name alone was enough to scare people to death![g] Pitiable Lu Piao Xiang. Ruan Zhu sincerely offered up sympathetic tears. Looking at the involved persons, she unexpectedly saw Xuanyuan Min Zhi, his face quiet and bleak.


    ¡°If his Royal Highness has finished, does not this express I am free to leave?¡±


    ¡°Lu Piao Xiang, your nerve is not small.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi exposed a faint but cold sneer, his eyes disdainful: ¡°Don¡¯t depend on you being familiar with quite a few influential officials, I nevertheless can still let you meet death with one stroke and not bear any blame or responsibility whatsoever.¡±


    ¡°All right, I will wait.¡± Lu Piao Xiang indifferently responded as if this matter had nothing to do with him.


    Lu Piao Xiang seems to have borrowed courage from the Heavens, daring to use this tone to speak to a Prince with overflowing powers from the Heavens! Ruan Zhu felt that this was unimaginable.

 Chapter 41

    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes were shining and he said some more next to Ruan Zhu¡¯s ear: ¡°Originally, Lu Piao Xiang randomly being near the border was peculiar, but it turns out he had been invited by Xuanyuan Min Zhi. To think he actually abandoned the invitation after arriving at Mao Er Town, does Wife know what this is about?¡±


    Her husband¡¯s words had caused Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart to move up and down, and she glanced at him with displeasure: ¡°You talk too much.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang was just about to leave and inadvertently saw the delicate and beautiful female in the crowd. His clear black eyes immediately softened as he stared unblinkingly at her, as if he wanted to engrave her figure forever in his heart.


    Ruan Zhu awkwardly smiled at Lu Piao Xiang. Being stared at with such a gaze by other men, she didn¡¯t know if this counted as making her hubby wear a green hat?


    ¡°Wife, there are piercing glances from that direction.¡± Yun Shi Yi held her head with both his hands as he turned her so that she was facing him.


    ¡°You are the first person to dare speak like that to this prince. Come, seize him. If he is delivered to the local government, he may not necessarily be caned. Directly send him to the mountains to slave away at excavating stones.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi coldly sneered and with one wave of his arm, three attendants appeared from behind him and surrounded Lu Piao Xiang. Two of them surrounded him from either side, meaning to break off his arms, while the remaining man fished out some rope and made to throw it over his head.


    Lu Piao Xiang was calm and composed. Not waiting for the two men to come close to his side, with a wave of the guqin case¨Cpa pa¨Che swept them away. Lifting up his right leg, he aimed a kick towards the remaining figure.


    However, these three attendants were not ordinary. They had suffered to the extent of eating a small loss in the beginning as they had underestimated the enemy, but went all out on the attack the second time they charged in.


    There were many who were proficient in martial arts in the country of Tian Chu, and as the hometown of martial arts, there were even more masters in Lan Zhou. Lu Piao Xiang being proficient in Chinese boxing was not a surprise. But for him, a Mister from a brothel, to know how to play the guqin and to also know martial arts, Ruan Zhu felt puzzled and wondered if all the ancient courtesans were not this simple.


    ¡°Has Wife noticed?¡± Yun Shi Yi muttered in her ear: ¡°His guqin case is made out of Dragon-Taming wood. Since it has become a guqin, it can also be made into a weapon. He used the guqin to attack those attendants but he is actually using the ways of the staff. Who would have thought this fellow could be considered such a powerful figure? If it wasn¡¯t that his status at birth was so low, he could be considered as satisfying the qualifications of becoming one of my wife¡¯s secondary husbands. But Wife, you must not be tempted by him¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu listened as his words became increasingly outrageous and angrily aimed a kick towards his leg. Yun Shi Yi hurriedly hugged her: ¡°Wife, be careful. Don¡¯t jostle the baby in your stomach. If you are angry, just directly pinch this husband twice instead.¡±


    Hearing that, Ruan Zhu seized the tender skin at his armpit. All the other places were too tough and she only felt satisfied with this place.


    Yun Shi Yi sucked in a painful breath as he helplessly smiled: ¡°Wife, you truly know how to look.¡±


    ¡°Who asked for your mouth to be so bad?¡±


    While the two of them were in the middle of teasing each other, the fight in front of them was become more intense. In an exceptionally valiant manner, Lu Piao Xiang used the guqin case to defeat his opponents. Very quickly, the three attendants had been beaten by him until they lay motionless on the ground. But more came over and he abruptly did a series of fast and sweeping kicks, as if his leg was on a chain. Two of the men were swept away and with a wave of the guqin case, the third person was hit so that he spit out blood.


    ¡°Who could have imagined you had some skill?¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s eyes were frosty: ¡°Fetch my sword over.¡±


    A boy rushed over from his behind him and held out a simple and unadorned longsword with both hands. Xuanyuan Min Zhi took the longsword and slightly shook it, unsheathing it, causing the cold and dense aura of the sword to suddenly ripple outwards. Although there was quite a distance between them, Ruan Zhu could still feel the chilliness arising from the tip of his longsword.


    Yun Shi Yi shook his head in admiration: ¡°This is truly someone that can be called wealthy. That sword is not an ordinary one. Its name is Zhan Lu and it is an ancient sword that has been handed down. Not only can it cut through iron as if it was mud, it won¡¯t be stained by blood when it kills a person.¡±


    Regarding Zhan Lu; Gan Jiang; and Mo Ye, these famous ancient swords had been copied and made into plenty of theatrical works in the future. For the most part, they were used differently from how other swords were used, but in reality, these famous swords were merely sharper than others by a bit.[a]


    Ruan Zhu stared at it. Zhan Lu crossing with the Dragon-Taming wood, she didn¡¯t know which one would end up the loser. But as far as someone who loved good music was concerned, it really would be a pity if the guqin case was to be damaged.


    Yun Shi Yi once again whispered in her ear: ¡°Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s martial arts are not bad. That guqin player of yours has run out of luck.¡±


    Ruan Zhu harshly glanced at him, her heart faintly trembling. She was somewhat anxious but that did not mean she liked Lu Piao Xiang. She was nervous out of her respect and admiration towards such a remarkable artist.


    Just when the two men were in the state of swords drawn and bows bent[b], five or six men black-clothed men appeared from the crowd and bowed in greeting towards Xuanyuan Min Zhi while their captain ventured: ¡°Fifth Highness, please look upon these servants in letting Mister Lu off the hook. Upon our return, this servant will provide an explanation for Your Highness. It is unbefitting to be in a deadlock here.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s eyes were frigid: ¡°All you dog slaves truly know how to be devoted.¡±


    Although the leader of the black-clothed men was respectful, he was not humble: ¡°This slave is only devoted to ones worthy of loyalty. If Fifth Highness insists on keeping Mister Liu, us slaves would not hesitate to pledge our lives and fight to the death.¡±


    It was as if ice had formed in Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s eyes as he sheathed his longsword: ¡°This prince will let him go today. But if there is a next time, see if I don¡¯t cut off both his arms so that he will no longer be able to play the guqin for the rest of his life.¡±


    Ruan Zhu felt it was no longer necessary for them to remain. What made her so hard-pressed was that Lu Piao Xiang always, either intentionally or not, cast affectionate looks in her direction. Seeing this made her heart feel prickly so she hurriedly pulled at her husband¡¯s hand to leave.


    ¡°Ai, leaving like this?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi had just followed his wife in barely walking ten meters away when all of a sudden, over a dozen masked men jumped down from the roof of the restaurant. Swords firmly held in their hands, they fiercely charged at Xuanyuan Min Zhi. As the first person threw himself as quick as lightning towards his target, his large broadsword danced in a grand manner, creating a large wind with a pressure as tremendous as Mount Tai[c] and striking down.


    With a single cold look, Zhan Lu was unsheathed and received the large broadsword. A high pitched hum sounded¨Cthe broadsword had been chipped.


    Both parties¡¯ arms had become numb from the impact. After their footing had stabilized, they simultaneously made their second move. The swords crossed again and with a loud sound, the broadsword of the leader of the masked men broke in two and the tip fell to the ground.


    The eyes of the head of the masked men were icy as he retreated, indicating with his hand for some of his subordinates to surround Xuanyuan Min Zhi while the rest fought hand-to-hand with Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s subordinates. Several weak common laborers were slashed to death on the spot and blood was spilled all over.


    The commoners that had been watching in a circle had long fled as they screamed. A few of the more courageous ones hid in the alleys and behind the windows of the restaurants as they stuck their necks out to stealthily look. They saw the desperate scene and their faces turned white but they were unable to turn their eyes away.


    The group of black-clothed men that had helped Lu Piao Xiang earlier mutually looked at each other. Their leader issued out one sound and all of them jumped into the fray to battle against the masked men.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi had obtained backup and his situation became rather good.


    As for Lu Piao Xiang, he still had a look of indifference with the guqin case tucked under his arm while his mind flew after the beautiful silhouette.


    Yun Shi Yi used his silk handkerchief to cover his wife¡¯s eyes as he carried her away.


    After winding through a few streets, they returned to the inn they were staying at. Ascending the stairs, they entered their Sky Room #1 and he placed her on the bed. He untied the silk handkerchief from her face but saw that she had become pale from fear. Tears welled in the corners of her eyes and her lips were also white.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s heart shook and he carefully pressed her against his chest, repeatedly consoling her: ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, don¡¯t be afraid, you¡¯re all right. Forget about everything that you had just seen. Don¡¯t think about it, just pretend as if it never happened.¡±


    Ruan Zhu wrapped both her arms around his neck and was not able to recover for a good while. In her previous life, her mother had died when she was still young. Her family had been afraid she had suffered a shock, so sent her to a relative¡¯s place. Today was the first time she had seen a dead person and it was unexpectedly such a brutal and tragic death. There were indistinct chunks of flesh everywhere. Half of an arm, part of a skull¨Call scattered in pieces. Seeing that had made her heart alarmed, body leap[d] and she wasn¡¯t able to remain calm even if she wanted to.


    Yun Shi Yi simply picked her up entirely, a hand gently patting her on the back as if he was comforting a child: ¡°What is it? Does your belly feel uncomfortable? I¡¯ll tell Shi Wei to invite the physician over to give you a proper check up, but this Shi Wei, I don¡¯t even know know where he¡¯s run off to as there¡¯s been no trace of him the entire day. I¡¯ll have Yun Shan invite over the physician then. Or having Nuan Chun or Nuan Qing do it is also fine.¡±


    Earlier, he had gone to the medical hall in search of the elderly physician to ask if there was anything he should take note of regarding a pregnant woman. He knew that women became much more frail when pregnant and must not become stimulated.


    ¡°No need. Just hold me like this, don¡¯t let go.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, I won¡¯t let go. Wife, it¡¯s all this husband¡¯s fault, I should not have brought you to such a crowded area. Shh, shh, does your stomach hurt? Is the child doing okay?¡±


    Ruan Zhu shook her head, not wanting to speak. She quietly remained in his embrace and buried her head in his broad chest.


    The young couple remained tightly interlocked until nightfall. Even Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing, who came to deliver the evening meal, were kicked out.


    Pounding steps could be heard on the stairs and a sweat-covered Yun Shi Wei entered the room.


    ¡°Spouse, see what I¡¯ve bought for you?¡±


    ¡°Which wild place did you go to?¡± Yun Shi Yi reprimanded him.


    ¡°I¡­¡­I went to buy some jewelry for Zhu Zhu. I¡¯ve said I¡¯d do it before, but I still didn¡¯t have enough money so I just went to the Dong Ling warehouse and helped them haul foodstuffs inside all day. Anyway, I finally bought the piece I wanted.¡± It was as if Yun Shi Wei was presenting a treasure. From his lapel, he fished out a small but delicate case: ¡°A phoenix hairpin forged out of pure gold with a green gem suspended from its beak. I know you like precious stones and the shop had cheaper ones than this but I didn¡¯t buy those, only this one, because I knew Zhu Zhu would like it.¡±


    Ruan Zhu saw that although this design was not as original as the one she had designed, the craftsmanship and skill was very exquisite. The beak of the phoenix held a long pendant and on the lower end was an emerald green jadeite.


    Gold phoenix hairpin


    Emerald green jadeite


    ¡°Thank you, Second Cousin! The golden phoenix is really beautiful, I really like it! Insert it for me, okay?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei giddily agreed and carefully inserted it into her hair. Perhaps he was too excited for his hands were trembling.


    After eating the evening meal, the three of them laid on the bed with Yun Shi Wei taking the innermost spot. Maybe he was too tired from carrying the foodstuffs all day for he had quickly fallen into a deep sleep and started snoring, without forgetting to drape a hand over Ruan Zhu¡¯s chest.


    Ruan Zhu gently nudged his hand away and huddled inside Yun Shi Yi¡¯s embrace. She couldn¡¯t sleep no matter what she did. Her experience from today was too frightening, beyond the limit of what she could accept.


    ¡°Still thinking about that matter?¡±


    ¡°Are Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s enemies very formidable?¡± Ruan Zhu was completely at a loss. ¡°He is part of the imperial family and is also one with an honorable status. There¡¯s not enough time for others to curry favor with him so why are there so many people that want to kill him?¡±


    ¡°After Xuanyuan Min Zhi had been given up by adoption by the Emperor to the Duke of Nan Ling, he became a candidate of inheriting the title of duke. It is possible there are quite a few people that can¡¯t accept it, right?¡± Yun Shi Yi rubbed her back: ¡°Us ordinary people do not have to worry about the imperial family¡¯s matters. Whether they kill or hover between life and death has not the slightest to do with us. Whoever inherits the title would not be able to share some benefits with us anyway. Granted, even if Nan Ling was destroyed, doesn¡¯t the Celestial Empire still exist?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true. We are also not citizens of Nan Ling.¡± Ruan Zhu paused for a moment before again saying: ¡°Lu Piao Xiang is also strange. He has that much skill, why did he enter the brothel? What is his history with the black-clothed men? Previously in order to help Lu Piao Xiang, they opposed Xuanyuan Min Zhi but then they afterwards stood alongside the latter to kill his enemy?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, ah, Wife.¡± Yun Shi Yi sighed.


    He previously had the intention of arranging Lu Piao Xiang as a secondary husband for his wife, but after this matter, he once again hesitated. Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s family background was presumably not ordinary. Seeing how those black-clothed men had protected him as well as Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s level of apprehension, no matter how he had been framed into entering a brothel, the strength of the forces behind Lu Piao Xiang was no small matter.


    To accept a secondary husband that was more powerful than himself and was also not suppressed by him at all in any regard, Yun Shi Yi¡¯s conclusion was that he was not so broad-minded. The woman in his arms was his life. Even if the other secondary husbands shared her, he had to take and remain in the lead spot.


    Another ten or so days passed and the fetus in Ruan Zhu¡¯s belly entered the stable period, resulting in her nausea symptoms becoming much better.


    On this day, the assistant that had previously been sent to Liu Zhou returned, reporting that only a small part of their batch of wood had been embezzled and the majority still remained. He had tried using money to settle the matter as it basically was not a big issue, but Yun Shi Yi was still required to personally pay a visit to the local authorities.


    Yun Shi Yi remained silent for a long time before deciding to head to Liu Zhou. On the day of his departure, he had Yun Shi Wei, Nuan Chun, and Nuan Qing stand before him as he warned them again and again before finally mounting a fast horse and departing with Yun Shan and the assistant in tow.


    Ever since her transmigration, Ruan Zhu had never gone a day without Yun Shi Yi and she was extremely unaccustomed to life without him by her side. For a few days in a row, she stayed holed up in her room, too disinclined to leave. Disliking Yun Shi Wei¡¯s nagging, she had kicked him out of her room.


    ¡°Miss, the guest in Sky Room #3 has come for a visit.¡± Nuan Chun pushed aside the door as he entered and saw his master sitting in front of the window to cool off, wearing a dudou and shorts. Her three-month pregnant belly slightly swelled but it did not decrease her beauty. Her previously ill complexion had become soft and dewy again thanks to all of the maintenance she had done over this period. Her skin was white and sparkling, as if bathed in a layer of light.


    ¡°I don¡¯t recognize the guest in Sky Room #3, ah!¡± Ruan Zhu lazily stood up, the small fan in her hand continuously moving up and down, ¡°What kind of weather is this, how long has it been yet one drop of rain refuses to drop? It¡¯s hot enough even at midnight to kill someone.¡±


    ¡°How has Miss become so muddle-headed? A guqin master resides in Sky Room #3 and had come here previously to play the guqin. Miss had even instructed this slave to make a bowl of iced pineapple juice and deliver it as thanks, hmm?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang, it was him! Ruan Zhu furrowed her brows in hesitation. Recalling his gentle eyes brimming with affection, it was as if she had been stabbed. She promptly waved her hand: ¡°Tell him I am not well today and do not wish to receive visitors.¡±


    ¡°Miss is not feeling well?¡± Nuan Chun was alarmed, ¡°This slave will immediately invite a physician.¡±


    ¡°Ai, don¡¯t go, I said it as an excuse. Just follow my instructions in responding to Mister Liu. You may withdraw now!¡±


    On such a sweltering day, one could not stay in their room the entire day. If one did not go outside to relieve their boredom, one would become bored to death. On an afternoon of a day such as that, Ruan Zhu neatly dressed and led her two bedwarmers on a stroll. While they were selecting fabrics at a silk store, they unexpectedly ran into Lu Piao Xiang.


    ¡°I¡¯m saying this blue one is good. The fabric is resistant to dirt so it is quite appropriate to be used to make a small blanket for our soon-to-be-born Young Master.¡± Nuan Chun held up an azure block of fabric as he muttered. ¡°Silk becomes bad after it¡¯s washed a few times. This blue material can preserve it for longer so we can also save some money.¡±


    ¡°You have forgotten that Miss prefers simple and plain colors, but you still chose blue against all reason. Hmph! Why must it be resistant to dirt? What our family has is money. Could it be that we¡¯re unable to afford bedding and bedclothes for our Young Master? If Master knew of this, perhaps you would be caned.¡±


    Ruan Zhu held up a block of white cotton, lifting it to view it from all angles. Cotton had been imported into China during the Three Kingdoms and it was first used as a decorative plant in peoples¡¯ gardens and was not recognized for its economic value. It was finally planted in the Central Plains during the Tang and Song dynasties but at this point in time, it was far from reaching the point of popularization and high quality cotton fabrics were rare.[e]


    Not only was the texture of the cotton cloth in her hand soft, it was also tightly woven and very absorbent. It would be very nice to use as diapers for infants.


    ¡°The white cotton that Miss is holding in her hands is from Gao Chang[f] and is very famous. During the last fair, I purchased a batch from Tu Bo merchants. If Miss likes them, I still have a lot here and can offer a discount.¡±


    ¡°How many do you have here?¡±


    ¡°Let me think, en, should be around thirty five bolts!¡±


    ¡°I want them all.¡±


    After paying, Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing both carried the white cotton bolts as they followed their Master in leaving the store. They caught sight of a man clothed in white with a guqin case tucked under his right arm standing in front of the store and sending a tranquil smile in Ruan Zhu¡¯s direction. Bright eyes, white clothes, black hair, leisurely handsome and talented¨Call the men and women walking along the road couldn¡¯t help but to give him a second glance.


    ¡°Has Mister Lu been well?¡± Ruan Zhu respectfully bowed with an estranged attitude.


    Lu Piao Xiao cupped his hands in return and stared at her, but did not respond.


    ¡°Does Mister Lu have a matter?¡± If there was no matter, she would leave. Others will misunderstand if she were to dawdle with an unmarried man in broad daylight.


    Lu Piao Xiang abruptly opened his mouth: ¡°Simu xiaojie yijiu, yuan zhi ji zhou, tingcong chaiqian! I have been thinking of Miss for a long while and wish to serve you!¡±


    Ruan Zhu stared at him in shock, and then with great alarm. In history, wasn¡¯t it written that the first words of the woman, Wu Yan, upon seeing King Xuan of Qi were: I admire Your Majesty¡¯s virtues and wish to serve you![g]


    [a] All three of these are actual swords in Chinese history. տ¬ (Zhan Lu) was made by the legendary sword-making master Ou Yezi. Gan Jiang and Mo Ye were a swordsmith couple that forged a pair of swords and named them after each other after King Helu of Wu ordered them to make him a pair of swords to tragic results. (Wikipedia) All of these swords were allegedly forged during the Spring and Autumn period (~771 to 476 BC).


    [b] ½£°ÎåóÕÅ, idiom meaning a state of mutual hostility


    [c] ̩ɽ, considered one of the five Sacred Mountains of China (Wikipedia)


    [d] ÐľªÈâÌø, idiom meaning fear and trepidation in the fear of disaster


    [e] Èý¹úʱ´ú, the Three Kingdoms (220-280 AD) was the tripartite division of China into Wei, Wu, and Shu, after the breakup of the Han. This is the time period where Romance of the Three Kingdoms (obviously) took place. And again for a refresher, Tang dynasty is 618-906 AD and Song dynasty is 960-1279 AD.


    [f] ¸ß²ý, an actual ruined, ancient oasis city on the northern border of Taklamakan Desert in present-day Xinjiang, China.


    [g] ÎÞÑÎ Wu Yan is referring to Zhong Wu Yan, a very intelligent female regarded as one of the four-worst looking women in Chinese history, who famously said those lines upon meeting King Xuan of Qi (350-301 BC) in an attempt to advise him, which worked.

 Chapter 42

    The meaning of ji zhou was ¡®one was willing to wait upon your distinguished self¡¯; furthermore, one was also willing to clean and sanitize¨Cthat is, forming a stable tie between partners, living our lives together, mutually helping each other in humble circumstances.[a]


    Ruan Zhu was momentarily stupefied. If the other had thrown such an explosive bomb under the circumstances where his qualifications and personality were not bad and she was an unmarried virgin maiden, she really might have considered it.


    Right now she wanted to say¨CBig Brother, I already have a hubby¨Cand opened her mouth, but this excuse was obviously useless. The other person, Mister Lu, did not ask you to only accept him, and also did not ask to have a fling. He did not have such a black conscience like Chen Shi Mei.[b]


    ¡°If Madam is willing, Piao Xiang is happy to become a secondary husband, attending to and following you, willingly serving you. If Madam is unwilling, becoming a small attendant or a bedwarmer is also perfectly acceptable with absolutely no objections.¡±


    He has already said it to such an extent. What would be the best thing for her to do?


    Good men had disappeared in her previous society. It had been after she had transmigrated and was carefully cherished by the two Yun brothers that she felt that she was actually precious and treasured.


    Lu Piao Xiang was truly straightforward and had characteristics of Second Sister You[c] from ¡¶Dream of the Red Chamber¡·¨Csimple; direct; if one had something to say, they¡¯d say it; talented and good looking. How could this kind of man not tempt women? What a pity her heart was already taken.


    ¡°Cough cough¡­¡­Mister Lu¡­¡­that, being a secondary husband is not that good of a position. With your distinguished self and name, Mister could become a principal husband of any large family. There is no need to bear this shame. Furthermore, would not your parents oppose this, correct?¡±


    ¡°My parents cannot manage my affairs; only I can control my own destiny.¡±


    ¡°This¡­¡­The way you do things makes it difficult for me.¡± Distressed, Ruan Zhu stepped back two steps, as if afraid that if they came into contact, she would be unable to cleanly cast him aside: ¡°My hubby¡­¡­ahem¡­¡­the Head of my family is currently out on business, I cannot do things that would let him down, may Mister please understand.¡±


    ¡°I know and I understand. If I do become Madam¡¯s secondary husband, I vow to never surpass his authority and also will not give you worries. You can be at ease, I have very few requests. I only wish to constantly remain by your side and that will be enough.¡±


    ¡°You actually think this way, but why?¡± She looked at him in perplexity. Could it be that loving a person meant you did not need to have all of them?


    ¡°I am impatient towards those empty things such as matchmakers and appropriate matches. Being a principal husband is good and being a secondary husband is fine. An attendant or a bedwarmer is also not a big matter. They¡¯re merely positions to strive for in this meaningless and boring life.¡± Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s youthful and handsome face was currently glowing with a bright dignity, his eyes glinting with something that could be called love: ¡°I only know that in this vast sea of people, I met you. Only you truly understand me and know my thoughts and understand my frame of mind when I play the guqin. I feel as if you are another me, the other half of my soul that I had accidentally lost. Only when I am bound to you will my life be regarded as complete.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was thoroughly struck dumb.


    From those webnovels she had read before, genuinely loving a person meant giving them the best, not to demand it from them! She had always thought it was the author trying to deceive girls and had viewed it as something that was impossible to exist in real life. There would also never be that sort of good man with those qualities. But the man in front of her had completely struck down that kind of thinking. She thought of Yun Shi Yi. Both men were the same¨Cgood men that were the most deserving of being dearly loved by a woman.


    Different social environments caused people¡¯s thoughts to be different.


    Just like how in this primitive era, women were considered superior and no one considered that that thinking was wrong; while in ancient China, where men were considered superior, all females thought it was reasonable and fair.


    Everything originated from its surroundings. Social systems; a common wife¨Cit was hard for her to comprehend these things, but the men of this era actually believed it was heaven¡¯s law and earth¡¯s principle.


    ¡°I need to explain, pertaining to that time on the pleasure boat with the poem, I actually spoke without understanding anything. It was all nonsense. I no longer have that sort of inspiration or insight and also can no longer compose that kind of wonderful verses. I¡­¡­Jiang Yan has exhausted his talent, I¡¯ve exhausted my limited abilities, my creativity has all been dried up.[d]¡°


    ¡°I have made a living playing the guqin for many years and have wandered through various aristocratic clans. The number of Madams and Misses I have seen are not few and I cannot say how many of them were proficient in literature or calligraphy. But I felt no emotion towards any of them.¡± Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s eyes were filled with affection as he gently looked at her: ¡°I have feelings for Madam, not because you can recite poetry, but because you truly understand me and know my thoughts.¡±


    One was plagiarizing, do you understand what plagiarism is?! Ruan Zhu was gloomily shouting this from the bottom of her heart but she could not say it aloud as she could never mention the fact of her transmigration.


    She lowered her eyes and silently walked ahead while he continued following her.


    After walking a while, she felt uncomfortable from head to foot and helplessly looked back: ¡°Mister Lu, can you please not follow me?¡±


    A smile spilled forth: ¡°I am returning to the inn.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was embarrassed. Oh yes, he was returning to the inn, he wasn¡¯t following her.


    The two people continued walking like so¨Cone in front, one behind¨Cwith a distance of only a few steps between them. The two bedwarmers in the back felt it was not good to disturb their Master and followed in the back at a distance that could not be considered far or near. Nuan Chun whispered in Nuan Qing¡¯s ear: ¡°That guqin master seems to like our family¡¯s Miss.¡±


    Nuan Qing was a bit sullen. He envied Mister Yu¡¯s courage in pursuing what he liked. Although the thought had long existed in his mind, he never had the courage to confess from the moment it was born. He slowly opened his mouth: ¡°If Miss is thinking of receiving secondary husbands, Mister Lu is actually a good candidate. At least he is not like others who flatter in circles and like to change the rules to torment others.¡±


    Nuan Chun had quite the same feelings but thought of another matter. When Miss has accepted enough secondary husbands, she would probably pay attention to the ones by her side, right? Ever since they were very little, they had been sent by their Master¡¯s mother to their Miss¡¯s side as bedwarmers. For over ten years, they only had her in their eyes and already could not accommodate other thoughts.


    On the other side, Nuan Qing was a bit dispirited, ¡°I don¡¯t want Miss to give me a status or anything like that, I only request that she give me a tiny bit of her attention. Even if it costs me ten years of my life, it would be a blessing cultivated in my past life.¡±


    Nuan Chun was startled. What his elder brother had been thinking in his heart was also what he has always requested. Based on their identity as servants, requesting a status was basically a luxury. But they were only asking for a little bit of care and attention.


    ¡°Do you see that? The appearance of that little wife walking over is truly charming. Added with that good temperament, it really is the same as a painting.¡±


    ¡°Her family¡¯s man is also not bad. Tall and handsome, the two of them were made for each other.¡±


    Ruan Zhu turned her head and saw a few old ladies standing by the roadside, gesturing with goodwill in their direction and felt embarrassed in her heart. With a flick of her eyes, she saw Lu Piao Xiang in high spirits, the corner of his mouth proudly curving upwards. It may be assumed he had definitely heard those words.


    Arriving at the inn, they ascended the stairs¨Cone in front, one behind¨Cand returned to their respective rooms.


    It was difficult to withstand the torrid heat of summer. If a bath was not taken each day, one would feel incredibly uncomfortable. After the evening meal, she soaked in a refreshing and cool bath and washed away the heat. Changing into a pair of light pajamas, she sat in front of the window to cool off. If Yun Shi Yi was home, it was a given he would be by her side, saying words that would satisfy her heart.


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing came in to tidy up and had yet to carry the bathtub out when Yun Shi Wei ran inside, entirely covered in sweat, and pulled Ruan Zhu into his embrace: ¡°Spouse, where did you go? I went out looking for you for so long, you worried me to death. If you had met with a mishap, Eldest Brother would kill me.¡±


    Ruan Zhu felt nauseated from the stench of his sweat. Pregnant women must not become stimulated, and she immediately started retching, bending her waist as dry heaves overtook her. Nuan Qing found a spittoon and let her vomit for a while before helping her rinse her mouth and then supporting her to sit to rest.


    Yun Shi Wei did not dare hover too close, and he worriedly looked at her: ¡°Spouse, I was wrong, I¡¯ll go wash right now. Are you all right?¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡­Hurry and go wash yourself clean. I am fine.¡± Ruan Zhu gasped for breath.


    Yun Shi Wei turned around and saw the bathtub in the middle of the room that he knew had just been used by Ruan Zhu. With a few movements, he threw off his clothing and jumped inside, not caring that there were two bedwarmers still in the room. In any case, they were all males. There was only Ruan Zhu, the sole female, who was his wife. What part of his body did she not know? There was no need for him to conceal himself.


    No matter what he did, Yun Shi Wei was rather impatient and he quickly finished his bath. Nuan Chun handed a set of clean clothes over, but he responded with: ¡°No need, I¡¯ll be sleeping in a while anyway. It¡¯s this hot and there are no outsiders here so I won¡¯t wear it.¡±


    Hello! Please, have some semblance of a Master!


    Ruan Zhu gloomily shook her head and looked towards Yun Shi Wei¡¯s flat abdomen, under which hung several glittering chains. The object at his crotch had been encased in the metal sheath and there were two delicate and small locks on his waist.


    Before his departure, Yun Shi Yi had given his brother ¡®double insurance¡¯ and had him layer another chastity belt over his original one. The two belts firmly secured his troublesome little brother.


    Ruan Zhu found it a little ridiculous and rejoiced in his misfortune as she looked at him.


    ¡°Spouse, I¡¯ve finished bathing.¡±


    He did not care that servants were present. Walking over and pulling her into his arms, he extended his tongue into her mouth in a rough kiss, a big hand groping at her chest.


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡­¡­don¡¯t be like this.¡± Ruan Zhu softly refused him.


    ¡°Spouse, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll just kiss and won¡¯t do anything that will harm you. Just for a little bit.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¨Cwhen did I ever have that meaning?¨Cwas embarrassed and waved toward the two bedwarmers to let them withdraw. Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing absentmindedly tidied the room as they covetously stole glances at their Master that was being ravaged by Yun Shi Wei. Finished with their task, they lifted the tub and left, closing the door in passing.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been stifled to death. These days really aren¡¯t ones that a human could survive.¡± Yun Shi Wei kissed her for a long time before finally letting her go, gasping for air: ¡°After a few more days, let me have you, all right? I¡¯ve asked the physician and he said that during the period between the first and latter three months, it is possible for a man and woman to do that. You can be assured, I will definitely be very gentle.¡±


    Once a man obtains the taste of love, his desire would become unusually strong. This over-a-month long abstinence has also been tough on him. Ruan Zhu found the keys from under the mattress and unlocked his chastity belts. With the locks undone, the belts subsequently slid off.


    Her hands reached forward, grasping onto a man¡¯s most sensitive member, slowly stroking.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s eyes turned red and his suntanned skin flushed with passion. His entire body felt astonishingly hot and his solid buttocks quickly twitched in accordance with her movements. Underneath her two small and soft hands, he throbbed with arousal.


    ¡°En¡­¡­Spouse, you¡¯re so good, faster¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu saw that he was almost unable to bear it and had reached the critical junction. Letting go with her hands, she buried her head and used her mouth to alleviate him.


    With the exception of Yun Shi Yi, this was the first time she had used her mouth on a man to solve their problem.


    It had not occurred to Yun Shi Wei that she would do this and his eyes widened in shock. But very quickly, his rationale was captured by the exquisite sensation. Not thinking of anything, he felt as if he was drowning inside that small mouth. It was as if he had grown a pair of long wings as his mind flew upwards.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡­Spouse, Spouse¡­¡­I¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Wei groaned and spurted out his thick desire from his body. Both of his hands clutched her head as his buttocks violently trembled, not stopping for quite a while.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s head left his body, and she sprawled on the ground, continuously coughing. Yun Shi Wei hurriedly grabbed a towel to wipe her.


    ¡°Spouse, are you okay?¡±


    ¡°En, I¡¯m fine. You feel better now, right?¡± Ruan Zhu rested for a bit, having been carried by him onto the bed to lay down. ¡°If it¡¯s better, then properly put on the chastity belts. Both of them need to be locked. Quickly.¡±


    She could no longer be soft-hearted. This guy¡¯s body and endurance was too strong.


    Yun Shi Wei picked up the belts and put them on, locking them, before crawling into the bed and laying down next to her.


    The night covered them. The sound of insects chirping from the garden outside the window came over, shortly followed by a clear and undulating high-pitched guqin melody that drifted in the air¡­¡­


    [a] Ô¸Ö´»þÖ㣬Ìý´Ó²îDz | yuan zhi ji zhou, tingcong chaiqian | literal translation¨Cwilling to grasp a broom, complying with all errands sent on


    [b] ³ÂÊÀÃÀ, Chen Shi Mei is a fictional Chinese opera character and a byword in China for a heartless and unfaithful man.


    [c] Author actually putÓÈÈý½ã (Third Sister You) but according to Wiki, that character doesn¡¯t exist but Second Sister does.


    [d] ½­Àɲž¡, idiom meaning to have used up one¡¯s creative powers; to have writer¡¯s block. This sentence was a little hard to translate. She uses an idiom with the meaning of using up all creativity, then she uses another idiom that literally translates to using up all creativity, and then she says it using plain words.

 Chapter 43

    Glossary


    [1] ʯ | dan | dry measure for grain around one hundred liters


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    The melancholy sound of the guqin floated in the air as it narrated what was weighing the player¡¯s mind down, playing Jian Jia from the Book of Songs: The reeds and rushes are deeply green, and the white dew is turned into hoarfrost. The man of whom I think, is somewhere about the water. I go up the stream in quest of him, but the way is difficult and long. I go down the stream in quest of him, and lo! he is right in the midst of the water. (Translation by James Legge)[a]


    Because of the blistering hot summer, all the windows were completely open. Mosquito repellent incense was placed on all the window ledges and the wispy smoke billowed in the air while the soothing sound of the guqin drifted in, cleansing one¡¯s mind.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s mind became empty and she sat up on the bed. As the guqin¡¯s song came to an end, she nevertheless could not help but to sing:


    The green grass is flourishing and in the white fog


    there is a beautiful woman across the water.


    The green grass is luxuriant and indistinct in the white fog,


    there is a beautiful woman in the midst of the water.


    I¡¯m willing to go against the current to nestle against her side.


    Helpless against the dangerous rapids ahead, the road is once again distant and long.


    I¡¯m willing to follow the current in the direction she¡¯s gone,


    yet saw a faint silhouette like she had long been standing in the water.


    The green grass is flourishing and in the white fog


    there is a beautiful woman across the water¡­¡­


    Across the Water ÔÚˮһ·½ by Chiang Lei ½­ÀÙ [b]


    The mellow voice was just like a fine wine, intoxicating the mind of people. Just earlier, Yun Shi Wei had been put into a fitful sleep by the guqin but had been quickly woken by his wife¡¯s singing. He reach out a hand to hug her: ¡°Spouse, it is still your singing that is nice to listen to. Listening to it is very comfortable. But, that person¡¯s guqin song is also not bad, hearing it made me want to sleep.¡±


    This dolt, such a beautiful guqin melody had actually been regarded as a lullaby.


    Ruan Zhu suddenly felt that the two parents of the Yun clan giving her their second son as a secondary husband was a wise move. If he had been arranged as the principal husband for some other female, it would be a wonder if he didn¡¯t end up being disliked and ignored.


    In the inn¡¯s Sky Room #3, Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s jet-black hair spilled across his shoulders and over the white robe he had draped across himself. On his angular yet distinctly handsome face, there was a hard to make out emotion as he blankly stared at the starry sky for a very long while, while murmuring to himself:


    ¡°You really are the kindred soul I have been looking for all along.¡±


    He had only played Jian Jia to comfort himself and very quickly, a similar song had been sung. Could this be a coincidence? No, this was clearly the mysterious arrangement of the Heavens. The world had a Lu Piao Xiang that loved the guqin, and naturally, the world would also have one that understood him¨Chis kindred soul.


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s tall and straight figure stood motionless in front of the window, only returning to rest in his bed after half the night had passed.


    At this moment, Ruan Zhu did not yet know that the song she had sung out of a sudden impulse would entrap the young man even further.


    She was currently imprisoned inside Yun Shi Wei¡¯s embrace with his arm as her pillow and felt a bit at peace.


    Pregnant women were prone to sleepiness. Just as she was about to doze off, his noisy voice sounded from next to her ear: ¡°Spouse, after you give birth to Eldest Brother¡¯s child, have him eat some contraceptives to let me have some children, too. I would like a boy. After he¡¯s born and grows stronger, I¡¯ll teach him martial arts, horseback riding, and archery.¡±


    Ruan Zhu suddenly felt her heart becoming suffocated with panic and opened her eyes to look at him: ¡°Don¡¯t tell me females have to give birth nonstop their entire lifetime?¡±


    ¡°Who said for a lifetime? Giving birth five or six times is enough as included among those definitely will be a few pairs of twins. For one principal husband with an additional four secondary husbands, that will be enough to satisfy the important task of carrying on each male¡¯s ancestral line. That¡¯s it.¡±


    ¡°Must I have that many husbands?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to have a lot. Right now, you have me and Eldest Brother, so it will be fine to accept only three more.¡± Yun Shi Wei yawned: ¡°You don¡¯t need to look favorably on those other secondary husbands, you can just bring them home and view them as half-servants. If they should be beaten or scolded, it¡¯s whatever. However, I¡¯m not the same, Spouse, you definitely have to treat me well.¡±


    Must she really have five husbands?


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s figure flashed in her mind. If he was counted as one, it would be pretty good. But for this matter, she did not want to make the decision and wanted Yun Shi Yi¡¯s agreement, to avoid wounding his heart.


    The ancient Chinese man also needed their principal wife to give their nod of approval before the husband had the privilege of taking a concubine. Then, her accepting a secondary husband also could not be a case of thinking for oneself and acting accordingly.


    Was the idea of one female paired with many males too shameless, yes or no?


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s cheeks blushed from shame at her own thoughts.


    But immediately, she defended herself. It was not that she was unsatisfied, it was the dignified law and she had no choice but to comply.


    Even if she collected five of them, she had to find ones that she personally liked, right?! If there were two people yet she loathed to be with either, she was better off not having them.


    She thought all of this and nudged aside Yun Shi Wei¡¯s hand on her chest, gradually falling asleep.


    After more than a month, Yun Shi Yi had yet to return. A letter from the relay station said that things had become somewhat troublesome and for her to patiently wait for a little while longer.


    Ruan Zhu felt somewhat reassured. It was fine as long as nothing had happened to her husband.


    This year¡¯s drought was particularly severe, especially in the South. Starting from a month earlier, several refugees had arrived at Mao Er Town from villages and other areas at the southern periphery of the country. It was said that not a single grain was reaped in many cases and farmers had no choice but to beg for food. Half of these people stayed and begged while the other half fled north. The majority of the elderly and feeble that finally reached Mao Er Town refused to go further north.


    Foodstuffs became precious and prices skyrocketed. Rice rose from last month¡¯s price of five hundred coins for one dan[1] to one thousand coins. Furthermore, the price was still rising. Even the prices of salt, oil, and other household essentials were getting higher and higher.


    The local official could be considered diligent and had set up a food center on the streets. Thin porridge was ladled out twice a day, allowing the commoners that were unable to afford to eat a way to survive. There were also many youngsters with strength to work that saw this as free food and felt even more disinclined to leave.


    The number of idle people in Mao Er Town had increased and troublesome events such as fights, looting, and stealing started breaking out.


    Just last night, several ruffians had rushed into the inn, scaring the guests. They had snatched a few valuables and then left. If it weren¡¯t for martial experts being present, they would most likely have stolen even more.


    Ever since becoming pregnant, Ruan Zhu always slept lightly and would wake at the slightest sound of activity. When the few thieves had just noisily entered the inn, she had been startled awake.


    Both the receptionist and innkeeper had hidden themselves. The first floor was the dining area and it also had several guest rooms that were of a lower quality used by poorer guests. From that area, the thieves did not have large fish to catch so they proceeded into the second floor.


    Ruan Zhu heard noise from the stairs and then the sound of what seemed to be weapons smashing doors open. She thought it was strange and opened her eyes. She shook Yun Shi Wei but he was deeply asleep and did not wake.


    At this moment, Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s voice came from outside the door: ¡°Madam Yun, don¡¯t be afraid. I am here.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was startled and unexpectedly felt comforted. This kind of emotion, she had only ever experienced before with Yun Shi Yi. She composed herself and got up to dress herself neatly before pulling the sheets over Yun Shi Wei as this guy had the habit of sleeping naked.


    Sounds of fighting very quickly came from outside the door, along with the ringing of gold and iron. Perhaps the hoodlums had suffered a loss as¨Cthud thud thud¨Cshe heard the sound of something or someone falling down the stairs.


    From that, Yun Shi Wei was finally roused from his slumber and rolled off the bed, throwing a pair of pants on before running outside with his copper rod that weighed several catties, only pausing to ruthlessly strike at each one of the thieves, driving out all of the plunderers.


    She lay down on the bed for a long time, unable to sleep. If Yun Shi Yi was here, he would have definitely carefully pressed her against his chest, soothing her. Longing suddenly overcame her like a tide and her eyes overflowed with tears.


    When Yun Shi Wei returned, it was already the latter half of the evening. The inn had met with thieves and no one had the thought to sleep. His wife had received a fright but he actually went to go chat with those people until the middle of the night. She didn¡¯t know where his large tendency to gossip came from.


    ¡°Spouse, why haven¡¯t you slept yet?¡±


    Ruan Zhu silently shook her head and lifted her head to look at him: ¡°You should also be tired, go to sleep!¡±


    Yun Shi Wei climbed onto the bed, and soon, sounds of snoring could be heard.


    But Ruan Zhu was still preoccupied with the pain of separation. If Yun Shi Yi was here, he would coax her to sleep first before sleeping himself.


    She stayed like this with her eyes open, terribly missing him, before finally closing her exhausted eyes when the sky was about to brighten.


    The day was bright and she was awake, but without any vigor.


    ¡°Spouse, the inn¡¯s owner has invited me for dinner as thanks for helping them last night. You should also go!¡± Yun Shi Wei came inside and placed a large bag of things on the table, ¡°There¡¯s nothing of interest in staying inside the room every day, just sleeping. It would be better to eat a meal to dispel your boredom.¡±


    ¡°What are you carrying?¡± Perhaps it was because she barely slept last night, but she didn¡¯t want to move and invited Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing inside to freshen her up. This work had previously been Yun Shi Yi¡¯s and never had she been served by others before.


    ¡°Walnuts. The innkeeper sent them, saying it¡¯s for you to boost your body with as it¡¯s good for pregnant women to eat.¡±


    Ruan Zhu recalled that walnuts were good for a fetus¡¯s brain. This was also Yun Shi Yi¡¯s child and must be nurtured well: ¡°Crack open the shell and hand me the inside flesh.¡±


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing carried in water for her to wash her face with and they busily went about in servicing their young Miss. Wearing a simple skirt, inserting a hair clip and beaded flowers¡­¡­Even if she currently had no energy, Ruan Zhu still followed the habits she had acquired in her previous life and did not allow a single part of herself to not be neat and orderly.


    She ate some rice and reclined against the head of the bed, accepting the walnut kernels that Yun Shi Wei handed over, slowly eating them one by one.


    ¡°Spouse, this Mao Er Town is about to be thrown into chaos. I heard there are revolts over in the county town. They¡¯ve smashed the yamen, robbed the granary, and the stockpiles of the wealthy families have also been cleaned out by bandits until there was nothing left. The county magistrate and yamen baliff had taken advantage of the situation and fled. Nowadays, the county seat is under the rule of bandits.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was alarmed. What the ancient aristocratic families feared the most was bandits. The poor did not fear them because they did not have anything worth stealing but that was not the case with the wealthy. Like this, she would also be one of the bandits¡¯ targets, right?


    ¡°Spouse, you don¡¯t have to worry. Mao Er Town is located at the border so there are quite a few army troops stationed here. Even if bandits did come here, they wouldn¡¯t be able to obtain many advantages. I can¡¯t say for sure, but after fighting them for a few days, maybe they would all be eliminated.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was unconvinced. During the early stages of formation, the bandits¡¯ general fighting spirit would be high and incomparably brave, and the army may not necessarily be their opponent. Many regimes had collapsed because their heart had weakened from infighting caused by contradictory views, allowing outside enemies to take advantage of their instability and annihilating them in one swoop.


    She slowly said: ¡°Reasonably speaking, we should leave this unstable area as soon as possible. But if we do and Husband Lord returns and is unable to find us, that would not be good.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei thought for a bit: ¡°I will send a letter to Liu Zhou tomorrow through the relay station, saying that we will all meet again in Lan Zhou. Spouse, how about that?¡±


    Ruan Zhu shook her head: ¡°In the turmoil and chaos of war and with a land full of starving people, will he actually be able to receive the letter?¡±


    During this disaster, there must be a lot of people that starved to death, right?


    It was hard for her to imagine a situation where people starved, but every Chinese person that had experienced the large ¡õ that covered over half of China in the 1960¡¯s would understand.[c]


    A neighbor of Ruan Zhu had said before that when his father was young, he had fled alone from the south to the Great Northern Wilderness because the northeast had more food. On the road, he ate the meat off of corpses and when he arrived in Heilongjiang, there was still a hand left in his bag. He buried the hand and then abstained from meat for many years afterwards.


    ºÚÁú½­ Heilongjiang is in red


    ¡°Regardless of whether Husband Lord can receive the letter, send the letter out tomorrow. Tell him not to worry about the business anymore and quickly come back. No¡­¡­go send it out today, I¡¯ll write the letter, immediately go send it to the relay station.¡±


    Starting from the Tang dynasty, a few smart people decided to use horse relay stations also as a hub for business because these stations had an enormous cost. Not only did this plan succeed in the target of ¡®using business to make up losses,¡¯ it was also profitable. As to why relay stations have evolved to sending letters or potentially delivering lightweight goods, well, not only was it convenient, but it also was more economical.


    Ruan Zhu got hold of pen and paper and hurriedly wrote a letter, sealing it before handing it to Yun Shi Wei. Money was merely worldly possessions. It would be fine as long as her child¡¯s father could return home safely.


    ¡°Spouse, the streets are very chaotic. You¡¯re with child so if there is nothing, don¡¯t randomly walk about. If there¡¯s something, just let Nuan Chun and the others do it.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei went out with the letter and did not return until the afternoon.


    ¡°Spouse, I delivered the letter you wrote to the envoy of the relay station just as there was a fast horse headed to Liu Zhou. It¡¯s about six hundred li, so if he hurries and rides nonstop, I reckon he should be there in around five or six days. I gave him some extra silver and he promised he would definitely personally hand the letter over to Eldest Brother.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s worried heart eased slightly. Holding onto the window ledge, she surveyed the streets. Not long ago, Mao Er Town was flourishing but now it was a ruined sight to behold, with famished refugees everywhere in tattered garments. They were either lying down under the eaves of a random home or knocking on doors, begging for food from house to house as they clutched at a broken porcelain bowl.


    If it was the former Ruan Zhu, she would have been flooded with empathy and gifted the money she had on her to a few of the impoverished people unable to afford to eat.


    But now that she was pregnant, as a qualified mother, she must properly look at her child. Letting them grow up healthy was her biggest wish. Though others¡¯ lives were also valuable, they could not compare to the life of the child in her belly.


    It¡¯s not that I¡¯m unwilling to help you, I¡¯m worried I¡¯ll become a public target. If by chance my economical status is accidentally revealed, others will be envious and perhaps even my life would not be safe.


    ¡°Spouse, the innkeeper¡¯s invitation for dinner tonight, are you going?¡±


    Ruan Zhu quickly glanced at him: ¡°I am not and also forbid you from going.¡±


    It was easy to guess what the innkeeper¡¯s plan was. During times of turmoil, who wouldn¡¯t want to find someone with skill to help them, either with fighting off thieves or traveling with them as they fled?


    Unfortunately, this fool was too easy, actually believing someone was offering something for him free of charge as if he was a living god.


    Three days later, when Ruan Zhu¡¯s letter had yet to reach Liu Zhou, a letter from Yun Shi Yi arrived. The tone was strict, telling them to immediately depart from Mao Er Town, and that it would be good if they could return to Lan Zhou, but should hide in a secure location if the political situation became too messy.


    Very quickly, Ruan Zhu received a piece of news¨Cthe imperial court wanted Mao Er Town to be used as the headquarters for dealing with the rebels.


    The author has something to say: A neighbor had said before that when his father was young, he had fled alone from the south to the Great Northern Wilderness because the northeast had more food. On the road, he ate the meat off of corpses and there was still a hand left in his bag when he arrived in Heilongjiang. He buried the hand and then abstained from meat for many years afterwards.


    This story is true, there genuinely was this incident. I have met the old man¡¯s son, and my husband has met the old man before. I don¡¯t know what frame of mind he was in that year when he had to eat corpses?


    [a] Translation found (here)


    [b] ÔÚˮһ·½ is a song originally written for the 1975 Taiwanese romantic film of the same name (English name The Unforgettable Character). Originally sung by Chiang Lei, it has also been covered by various artists since then, notably among them was Teresa Teng. (Youtubes of Chiang Lei and of Teresa Teng)


    [c] The ¡õ is referring to the Great Chinese Famine (1959-1961) where tens of millions of people are estimated to have died from starvation. All three sites I checked have this box, perhaps it was censored because the famine was largely caused by Mao Zedong¡¯s policies? (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 44

    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    Wanting to leave Mao Er Town was also not that simple as all of the rations for the road must be completely prepared. During this chaotic and famine-riddled time when they cut off from their hometown, they must not starve to death if they entered the wild mountainous country that did not have any other people.


    From their preparation in leaving Lan Zhou, Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing were experienced in knowing what goods to purchase for journeys. Starting from food, they bought rice; noodles; oil; salt; soy sauce; vinegar; tea; various small pastries; and quite a bit of dried fruit as fresh ones were not suitable to be stored. They also had someone deliver several bags of charcoal over as it could be used if they passed through areas without any people or areas where there were no trees to cut.


    This southern province was the first one to plant cotton and its quality was much higher than the ones planted in the Central Plains. They even had reserves of several catties of cotton.


    The original bedding Ruan Zhu used was padded rabbit fur, which was very pliable and warm. But ever since she became pregnant, she did not fare well against its smell. Over several nights, her two bedwarmers had made a new one and spread it in her carriage.


    Making all of these preparations took up several days¡¯ worth of time.


    Their final day in town was the day of the large bazaar that Mao Er Town held once a month. Ever since coming to the southern border, Ruan Zhu had never gone. She had originally thought that because of the famine, the fair would also be relatively desolate, but who knew it would be completely bustling with activity. There were visitors from Tian Chu, Tu Bo, and Nan Ling and all of those merchants and tourists filled up the roads for several li.


    Traveling merchants and pedestrians from various the countries walked along the street. Hawkers arranged their wares in booths that they set up along the road, shouting out as they introduced their merchandise. Horse feed; fur; leather; precious gems; melons; fruits; fragrant tea¨CAll of the reputable goods of this era were practically here.


    There was a surging crowd as far as the eye could see where people walked shoulder to shoulder. It was truly a bustling and lively sight to behold.


    The local official was afraid that the refugees would cause trouble and had appointed quite a few officers to maintain order so that there was no need to worry about any safety or security issues.


    Accompanied by Yun Shi Wei, Ruan Zhu had strolled through not even half the market and felt half-dead from exhaustion. If she had known walking through the bazaar would be this exhausting, she would have come in a carriage. Yun Shi Wei borrowed a stool from a soup dumpling vendor for her to sit and rest, while Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing walked forwards to continue purchasing goods for their trip.


    ¡°Spouse, how about I give you a ride back to the inn?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei stood by her side, holding an umbrella over her head. This umbrella was not used to block the rain, but rather the sun. Since the start of summer, not one drop of rain had fallen.


    ¡°Wait for Nuan Chun and the others to come back before we all return.¡± She had been stifled from being in the inn these past few days and this was a rare day that she could come out.


    In the fair, there were quite a few vendors that sold household goods or foodstuffs and business was flourishing as it was cheaper than in actual stores. Many of the Mao Er Town commoners that planned to take refuge in other parts of the country exchanged the items they could not take with them for foodstuffs, oil, salt, and other necessities.


    Across from her was a slave market. A hundred men and women with yellow faces and emaciated bodies stood in several rows, a rope binding the right arm of every individual in long strands. They were divided into two groups, with adults in one group and children in the other. There were males and females, old and young. The oldest looked around forty years old while the youngest was probably only seven or eight. The general expression of the adults was stiff and dull while the children had frightened eyes, with some crying.


    The clothes of the people being sold were all worn-out and tattered, and the exposed flesh was thin beyond recognition, evident that they had been starved for a long time. Row by row, they were pulled to stand on top of the platform that was half a person¡¯s height, providing a selection for customers to choose from. If the appearance was good and the figure was sturdy, they were very likely to sell.


    A woman with obvious fat rolls all over her face went up the stage, exposing a vulgar smile full of yellow teeth. She pushed the crowd of slaves aside in her search for men. Finding one she liked, she would stretch out a plump hand to grope him, even reaching inside the man¡¯s pants. The scared men yelled in alarm and a few indignant males resisted her advances, only to be whipped by the boss, their flesh lacerated from punishment.


    The obese Madam burst into loud laughter. Selecting a few tall and more elegant men, she pulled them to the side and pulled off their trousers. If they had large manhoods, she bought them.


    In a famine year, the value of a person was not as high as a domestic animal. Ten robust men were not even worth fifty taels of silver.


    The men that had been stripped all showed ashamed expressions, their faces as red as cooked shrimp, as they lowered their heads without a word and pulled up their pants.


    Ruan Zhu saw the fat Madam¡¯s vulgar actions, that were not limited to only extending her hands into the mens¡¯ pants. She couldn¡¯t help but to knit her graceful brows, her face full of disgust. No longer wanting to look, she stood up and was just about to urge Yun Shi Wei to leave when at that time, a handsome and out of the ordinary man was being pulled onto the stage.


    The man was around twenty years old and unlike the others, both his arms were bound. His clothes were torn and rotten and also stained with blood but his facial features were still clear and distinctly handsome, his deep eyes pierced with a cold light. Although he cut quite a sorry figure, it could neither cover up his unique temperament of a crane in a flock of chicken[a] nor his imposing air.


    It could be assumed that he was excessively outstanding as he was pushed out by the trafficker to stand alone on the stage. At the sight of him, the women that were originally watching just for the commotion became similar to as if they had found a precious stone within a mound of rubbish. Their eyes shined and exposed a drooling expression as one after the other, they walked over.


    ¡°I offer ten taels of silver to buy him.¡± The obese Madam that had previously bought some men yelled out.


    ¡°I¡¯ll offer fifteen taels.¡± Very quickly, someone called out a price that outbid her.


    ¡°Twenty taels.¡±


    ¡°Twenty five taels.¡±


    ¡°Double, fifty taels.¡±


    A whole group of lustful women fell over each other in their eagerness to raise the price, all entertaining lewd thoughts towards the handsome man in their hearts.


    The boss was so happy his eyes were slits: ¡°Fifty taels, fifty taels of silver. Is there anyone else that wants to offer a high price? Let me first declare that the goods of this merchandise is extremely large, and even more wonderful is that he is still a virgin. The gecko cinnabar mark on his arm is still there. Whichever family¡¯s Madam buys him, I can assure you he can replace ten men.¡±


    While the trafficker said this, he walked over to pull down the man¡¯s pants. Humiliation flashed in the handsome man¡¯s eyes and even though both his arms were bound, his legs were free, and an aggrieved leg kicked the proprietor flat on his back.


    The boss was supported up with the help of his assistant and angrily collected the whip by his side before even standing up properly. But after thinking for a bit, he put it back down. If the man¡¯s appearance was destroyed, he would have little value. Instead, he picked up a wooden stick and swung it violently at the handsome man¡¯s back. Pa pa! The handsome man was beaten to where he coughed up several mouthfuls of blood and kneeled on the stage, physically unable to endure. But his brows were tightly locked and he stubbornly refused to let out a single sound.


    Some of the women saw that the handsome man was strong-willed and were afraid that if they bought him, he would be hard to play with, and stopped their thoughts. Only the previous obese Madam shouted: ¡°Stop hitting, if you damage his body this old lady no longer wants it.¡±


    The boss stopped and threw away the stick. Pei! He spit at the handsome man.


    The obese woman walked over and stroked the handsome man¡¯s crotch through the material of his pants. She had some martial arts knowledge so though the handsome man struggled a few times, he could not throw her off. The obese woman had finished groping his crotch and giggled: ¡°The goods are large enough, they¡¯re the largest that this old lady has ever met in this lifetime. Not bad, haha¡­¡­¡±


    The handsome man¡¯s complexion was ashen and his eyes were about to spit out fire.


    Ruan Zhu had looked for a while and felt that this handsome man was familiar. He seemed to know martial arts, so she turned towards Yun Shi Wei: ¡°The man on the stand seems to know martial arts and that kick towards the proprietor was quite impressive. How could he have been reduced to this condition where he¡¯s being sold just like merchandise?¡±


    Furthermore, his entire body radiated with a noble air, evident that his family background was not ordinary.


    Yun Shi Wei had seen it all from the side: ¡°That man has received a serious injury, causing his qi to leak. I¡¯m positive the injury is not light. You see how his face is pale with a purple tinge? The color of his neck is also not normal and his lips are somewhat bluish-black. It¡¯s very possible he has been poisoned, and it¡¯s probably one that is highly toxic.¡±


    He may be unable to answer other questions, but detailed knowledge about the military, martial arts, and other related subjects could spill out of his mouth without pause.


    The more Ruan Zhu looked, the more she felt the handsome man was familiar and she couldn¡¯t help but to approach the stand until there was around three to five meters between them. At this time, the handsome man lifted his head and inadvertently met her gaze. His eyes filled with confusion then suddenly shone and he loudly yelled: ¡°Buy me, hurry and buy me.¡±


    Is he talking to me? Ruan Zhu looked at him in surprise. This appearance¨Cshe immediately remembered this person that she had met two or three months ago when she had been taken out for a stroll by her husband, Yun Shi Yi. At that time, this handsome man and Lu Piao Xiang had gotten into a dispute in front of a restaurant. He had wanted to cripple Lu Piao Xiang but had been the target of assassination by a bunch of men in masks not even a few minutes later.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi, the current emperor¡¯s youngest son, adopted by the Duke of Nan Ling to be his heir.


    Ruan Zhu was struck dumb. This was indeed a person of the highest honor and noble rank. How had he been reduced to this situation where even a beggar was of higher status? Did he fail in the struggle for inheritance? Or did the emperor not want him anymore? Or, or did the Duke of Nan Ling turn his back on him?


    ¡°Buy me back.¡± The handsome man yelled again like a command, but there was a hint of pleading though it was not at all humble.


    ¡°Spouse, you know him?¡±


    Ruan Zhu shook her head. She merely had seen him once and had not even exchanged a word with him. The reason why she was able to remember him was because his impression on that day had been so strong. But she hadn¡¯t expected Xuanyuan Min Zhi to remember her. Wasn¡¯t this man¡¯s memory too good?


    In the end, should she save him or not? If she saves him, she was afraid that someday in the future she would be embroiled in imperial matters. If she doesn¡¯t save him, when this person has succeeded in the future, he would most assuredly come for revenge.


    Yun Shi Wei curled his lip: ¡°This fellow has been beaten so hard by the boss that his mind has broken by 80%. His mentality is abnormal. If we¡¯re strangers, why tell us to buy him?¡±


    The fat woman was still inspecting her goods, touching Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s abs for a while, pinching his buttocks.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s arms had both been bound where they were unable to move. His eyes swirled with fury. While she was caressing his Adam¡¯s apple, he suddenly bit hard on that chubby finger.


    The fat woman loudly wailed. By the time she was able to separate herself, half of her finger was gone.


    Pei! Xuanyuan Min Zhi spit out the other half of the bloody finger.


    The proprietor saw what happened and felt like his head was going to explode. The fat woman was definitely from a rich local family and he was just a very small businessman who couldn¡¯t afford to provoke her. He was afraid that he would have to compensate with quite a few taels of silver but it was too late to think about that. Picking up the wooden stick on the ground, he aimed it at Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡­¡­


    ¡°Sixty taels, I¡¯ll buy this person.¡±


    The wooden stick stopped in mid-air. The proprietor looked off the stage and saw that it was a beautiful young Madam dressed with great dignity. She looked sixteen at best, though her prudent temperament surpassed her age.


    The trafficker had traveled extensively and seen all kinds of people and knew that the woman in front of him was not one who haggled over every ounce. He hastily plastered a smile on his face: ¡°If Madam is able to pay sixty two taels, then that would be for the best, payment in one hand, merchandise in the other.¡±


    ¡°Give him sixty two taels.¡± Ruan Zhu tilted her head towards Yun Shi Wei.


    ¡°Spouse, you¡¯ve already said you don¡¯t know him, why should we spend this pointless expense?¡± Yun Shi Wei unwillingly said, while blinking his eyes. He admired the unyielding nature of the handsome man, therefore, he did not want to buy him even more, fearing his wife would treat the other more favorably. ¡°Moreover, we still have to return to Lan Zhou. Taking him along is not convenient.¡±


    ¡°Do not forget you are merely a secondary husband, someone that does not at all have the privilege to question the wife. You still don¡¯t hurry?¡± Ruan Zhu concentrated the full power of her stare at him, her clear and exquisite small face having a touch of dominance.


    Yun Shi Wei shrunk his neck and unhappily walked over to the stand in large steps, taking out a silver banknote worth one hundred silver taels and handing it over.


    The southern border was small and did not use silver banknotes that often. The proprietor respectfully took the proffered silver banknote and retrieved forty taels of silver while also handing Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s slave contract to Yun Shi Wei.[b]


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was now Ruan Zhu¡¯s person and the ropes on his body were undone.


    But she was only in charge of buying the person. The matter of the fat woman¡¯s finger being bit off had nothing to do with her, just let the proprietor worry about that one!


    Ruan Zhu really wanted to ask Xuanyuan Min Zhi, How did a majestic child of the imperial family such as you become this wretched? Thinking about it, she restrained herself. Since the other party has not spoken about it, there was no need for her to meddle and potentially irritate him.


    They waited for a while at the original spot. Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing returned after they had finished their purchases. They had hired several laborers to carry the packages and followed behind them.


    The group of people walked in the direction of the inn. Passing by a silk shop, Xuanyuan Min Zhi stopped, the arrogance of a noble Mister flaring up: ¡°Halt. Buy up these few silk bolts. This prince wants new clothes.¡±


    His clothes were both dirty and torn, and he had been unable to endure it from a long time ago.


    Ruan Zhu glanced back, flabbergasted. Was this a command directed toward me? Buying silk was fine, but he should change to another tone, right! Was he under the impression that this was the emperor¡¯s throne room or the imperial palace of Nan Ling? Am I your family¡¯s servant?


    She deliberately pretended to not have heard him and walked a few steps but could hear Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s indignant voice behind her:


    ¡°What is wrong with you, woman? Do you have a problem with your ears to not have heard this prince¡¯s command?¡±


    ¡°Who permitted you to speak like this to my wife?¡± Yun Shi Wei glared at him and said towards Ruan Zhu: ¡°Spouse, he seems to know you. Why does he call himself ¡®this prince¡¯?¡±


    ¡°He ah¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu blinked her eyes. ¡°He is the Prince of Mountains of his thatched house in an eastern mountain valley. If he doesn¡¯t call himself ¡®this prince¡¯, should he call himself ¡®manager¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Turns out he¡¯s a bandit. If you aren¡¯t more honest, I¡¯ll hand you over to the local authorities and have them sentence you to be beheaded after autumn comes.¡± Yun Shi Wei looked down on Xuanyuan Min Zhi.


    ¡°You¡­¡­¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s eyes were full of anger: ¡°You dare to speak this way to this prince, you must be tired of living. Do you believe if this prince will execute your family to the third generation?¡±


    ¡°It is not against the law to kill a servant in Tian Chu.¡± Yun Shi Wei shouted. ¡°I, your father, can let your head meet the ground this instant.¡±


    ¡°Second Cousin, stay by the side.¡± Ruan Zhu curbed Yun Shi Wei. She felt as if she had received a hot potato that she could not throw away but also did not know how to handle. With such a great ancestor by her side, it seemed like she was serving them and the other party believed it was but a matter of course. If the service did not conform to his expectations, she feared it really would be like what he said of executing three generations.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s head was incomparably big but Heaven never bars one¡¯s way, and in a blink of an eye, she saw a woman standing in front of a booth that sold cows and horses.[c] It was precisely their innkeeper¡¯s wife. She was currently haggling with the seller and not long after, reached an agreed price and left satisfied, pulling a cow along.


    ¡°Aunt Sun, you came to the fair to buy a cow, ah?¡± Ruan Zhu went forward in greeting.


    ¡°Madam Yun, it¡¯s you, ah. What a coincidence. This is the merchandise that you bought?¡± Aunt Sun greeted everyone with a smile. Seeing Xuanyuan Min Zhi, her eyes expressed her astonishment: ¡°Oh, this little brother is well worth a second look. Is this Madam Yun¡¯s newly bought attendant or bedwarmer?¡±


    ¡°Aunt Sun, seeing you say that, I already have two bedwarmers, what is the point of having so many of them? As a matter of fact, aren¡¯t I returning to my old home, Lan Zhou? I¡¯ve troubled Aunt Sun these past few months, my apologies for the inconvenience. Yesterday, I heard my family¡¯s Shi Wei saying Auntie is also planning on leaving the town, and I¡¯ve been thinking of sending something over. This morning, I heard you had come to the fair to buy a cow to pull a carriage so I thought, how about giving you a coachman? As a matter of fact, that is what I just bought from the fair, may Aunt look on this gift and find it satisfactory.¡±


    Ruan Zhu saw the other party buying a cow, and guessed they might be planning on taking refuge outside.


    ¡°This¡­¡­this is for me?¡± Aunt Sun was pleasantly surprised and looked Xuanyuan Min Zhi up and down, repeatedly shaking her head: ¡°Ze ze[d], with this little brother¡¯s appearance, it would be a pity to be a coachman. How about being a bedwarmer? Or being an attendant could also be quite refreshing.¡±


    ¡°In any case, it¡¯s a gift for you. You can decide as you wish.¡±


    Ruan Zhu smiled in courtesy, not caring that the involved person was fiercely glaring at her with a face full of fury. She pulled at Yun Shi Wei to depart and Nuan Chun, Nuan Qing hurried to follow.


    At long last, she had been able to pass on the hot potato. She breathed a sigh of relief. This was a lesson that one could not be a good person.


    [a] º×Á¢¼¦Èº, idiom meaning way above the common; manifestly superior


    [b] Either the trafficker doesn¡¯t know how to do math or he decided not to cheat RZ in the end, idk.


    [c] Í·´ó lit. (to have a) big head, figuratively means to get a headache and/or one¡¯s head is swimming | ÌìÎÞ¾øÈË֮·, idiom basically meaning never give up


    [d] Onomatopoeia for tongue clicking

 Chapter 45

    Glossary


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    ¡°Spouse, I¡¯ve long thought that guy was an eyesore and you giving him away was for the best. It¡¯s just a pity that those sixty two taels of silver are gone.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m tired, what should I do? Second Cousin, carry me back to the inn!¡± Ruan Zhu stared at him. If it was Yun Shi Yi by her side, there would have been no need for her words as he would have long been worried about how exhausting her pregnancy was and carried her.


    ¡°Spouse, others will laugh if I carry you. Let me give you a ride instead!¡± Yun Shi Wei scratched his head, feeling embarrassed and awkward.


    ¡°You really have a problem with your brain. Forget it, I¡¯ll walk by myself.¡±


    Nowadays, her belly was not small, so how would a piggy-back ride be comfortable?


    She had just taken a few steps when her waist was caught by Yun Shi Wei. Her body lifted in the air, she was then horizontally carried in his arms.


    ¡°Spouse, don¡¯t be angry. I was speaking nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m a little angry. But Second Cousin, I think there are some times when you aren¡¯t that annoying.¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s legs that were weak at the knees had finally obtained reprieve and felt much better: ¡°Let me tell you, you must keep me happy; otherwise, if there is a day when I feel you are not pleasing to my eye, I will write a certificate of divorce[a] and hand it over to you.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was an honest person and his eyes were a little moist: ¡°Spouse, I will be obedient, don¡¯t turn your back on me.¡±


    She extended her finger and tapped it against his head, as if chiding him: ¡°Wanting me to not turn your back on you is not dependent on what I do, but is based on what you do. Like just now when I had ordered you to do something yet you refused; say, would I be happy?¡±


    ¡°Spouse, I was wrong. In the future, I will listen to whatever you have to say.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei carried Ruan Zhu as he walked to the inn with large steps, not even acknowledging the glances that passerbys threw at them.


    News arrived from the county town¨Cover ten thousand rebels had assembled in just a few days, and in order to take on the name of ¡®Red Eyebrows,¡¯ each member dyed their brows scarlet.[b]


    The head of the rebel army was a peasant that was semi-literate. He was strong, knew martial arts, had traveled extensively behind a caravan in his younger years, and somewhat had some knowledge and insight. By using the county town as their base of operations, the rebels could expand outwards. They mainly singled out prominent wealthy families, stealing their foodstuffs and dividing it to the commoners, using this to buy the hearts of the common people. The hungry citizens benefited and wholeheartedly pledged their allegiance to the head of the Red Eyebrows army.


    Mao Er Town was only about five to six li away from the county town. At such a close distance, the town was naturally targeted by the Red Eyebrows. Moreover, Mao Er Town was a southern territory and there were quite a few troops sent by the imperial court defending it. Thus from the beginning, the town was also a source of threat to the rebels.


    The two armies had set up on a level plain east of the town and were on the verge of exchanging blows.


    All kinds of fortifications were being set up, causing logistical supplies to become strained. Recruitment for able-bodied men increased in urgency and they were snatched up left and right.


    When Ruan Zhu returned to the inn from the bazaar, she heard the female guest staying in the first floor wailing as a group of officers had come to the inn during the day and forcibly recruited two of her secondary husbands.


    The other guests had also been enlisted but as they had shelled out money, their husbands had only been sent to do manual labor. Unfortunately, that female guest had been unable to pay the ransom to save her husbands.


    In the evening, all of the inn¡¯s guests congregated in the dining hall on the first floor. The innkeeper proposed everyone to find refuge outside of Mao Er Town, and may everyone close their accounts as the inn must close down.


    The guests mutually looked at each other. They were all mostly businessmen that had traveled from other areas to this southern border, so the ones that had to leave had long left, and the ones that had yet to depart were still waiting to collect bills. They absolutely could not leave empty-handed, right? But the situation with the rebels was getting worse and worse so if they went out requesting their payments, that would raise even more problems.


    Yun Shi Wei was one that liked activity and he had been continuously chatting with and offering assurances to each guest, with no end in sight.


    Ruan Zhu listened listlessly. Alone, she walked towards the second floor and ran into Lu Piao Xiang in the corridor. He was calmly standing there, his fresh and clean temperament like an ink and wash painting. With hair was like ink, eyes like bluish-green lacquer, his slender stature was set off by a nature green garment and his dignified appearance did not lose in elegance.


    Example of an ink and wash painting (ˮī»­ )


    Eyes smiling, he cupped his hands in greeting and Ruan Zhu also returned the courtesy.


    ¡°This humble one has received news that the commanding officer of Mao Er Town¡¯s defense army intends to construct a wall with a range of five li. They are drafting able-bodied men and I fear the conscription will become more ruthless. If there are no other matters to take care of, then quickly leaving this town would be the best option.¡±


    The town of Mao Er was a garrison and there were no city walls. To withstand the rebels, a city wall had to be built. This project was urgent and needed a large number of laborers, which is why they grabbed so many men in their prime.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s tone was natural and unrestrained: ¡°Over these past few days, the required goods have all been bought and early tomorrow morning, I will be leaving.¡±


    He shook his head: ¡°Do not wait until tomorrow, you should leave tonight and go by the water route. There are troops stationed at all the land crossings especially to snatch men in their prime.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was a little dejected. She was pregnant and the journey was bumpy and bound to be hard to bear. If the few men by her side were captured, how would that be good?


    ¡°You do not have to worry¡­¡­¡± Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s voice became deeper and he stared straight at her, his eyes firm: ¡°I will never leave you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu directed her pair of large dewy black eyes at him, feeling puzzled and full of doubt. The times they had met each other were not many and although she had often seen him in the inn, she had tried to avoid him as much as possible. When had his feelings towards her become so deep as to never leave?


    ¡°I have said it before¨Cas long as I can stay by your side, then that is enough. I do not take offense to things such as labels.¡± His voice was low but each word was distinct, just like a cloud in the blue sky, making one¡¯s spirits become clear with not a speck of dirt.


    ¡°Mister Lu, look at my current appearance, which area is worthy to be kept in your thoughts?¡± No matter how pretty a woman was, she feared one did not possess any sex appeal once pregnant: ¡°What do you really like about me?¡±


    ¡°You are the other me, my soulmate that I had lost in my previous incarnation. Would I dislike myself?¡±


    What kind of argument was this? Ruan Zhu smiled in amusement.


    ¡°Your smile is truly beautiful, very refreshing. Looking at you, my heart feels at ease. This is exactly your charm and the part that most attracts me.¡±


    Behind her came the sound of someone on the stairs¨Cdong dong. It was Yun Shi Wei.


    ¡°I should return to my room. Your proposal is very good, I will inform everyone when I return, and once we have discussed it, we will go look for a boat.¡±


    ¡°I have hired a boat. It is rather large and there will be extra room even with all of your luggage and provisions.. It is currently docked at the northern pier. At present, there are no troops stationed there, but it will be hard to say over the next few days.¡±


    Close to midnight, Ruan Zhu was helped by Yun Shi Wei into a carriage that had already been prepared and was parked in front of the inn. Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing got on the carriage behind hers. In order to pull wool over others¡¯ eyes, the Yun carriage¡¯s original red mahogany exterior had been wrapped up in a layer of shabby and coarse cloth. From the outside, it looked like an average commoner carriage.


    It was Yun Shi Yi that had brought her to Mao Er Town but she currently did not know where he was. At her side was Yun Shi Wei and her attendants, yet she felt a little mournful.


    Lu Piao Xiang rode a horse in front, leading the way, and the two carriages slowly followed behind. Exiting the small town, the limestone-paved road became bumpy, causing Ruan Zhu to be uncomfortably jostled around so Yun Shi Wei held her securely.


    Mao Er Town was surrounded by water on three sides. The northern body of water by itself was not very large and a boat was able to travel across it in one sichen. But it took a while to load all of their goods, so by the time they had crossed the body of water, reached the other shore and gotten onto the carriage, the first glimmers of dawn were already appearing.


    The county town was on the east and the unrest had not yet spread here, thus it was relatively safe. As she wished, Ruan Zhu ate a few random bites of light refreshments and slept in the carriage for a moment, all the while heading northward. Along the way, they ran across a multitude of refugees in groups of three or five or parties of ten or eight, accompanying each other as they headed towards the capital.


    The commoners believed that when they reached the capital, the Emperor would surely hand out food and would not let them starve to death.


    Even though the famine had only occurred for a few months, one could still see a few people that had starved to death on the roadside. Their corpses remained on the side of the road, becoming a beautiful meal for wild dogs to fight over.


    Because Ruan Zhu was pregnant, Yun Shi Wei had specifically told the coachman to slow down their journey so they went very slowly every day. Fortunately, she was frequently being held by Yun Shi Wei in the carriage, lessening the suffering brought on by the bumpy ride.


    This secondary husband of hers was sometimes careless, but as long as she instructs him, he was willing to listen, letting a lonely daughter feeling somewhat comforted.


    One day, rain unexpectedly fell from the sky like a sweet nectar that was hard to come by in this persistent summer drought. Everyone felt hopeful but no one knew how long this rain would last for. Under these drought conditions, would it be like a cup of water on a burning cart of firewood[c]?


    The rain was not large, just a light shower, but it lasted for a long time. The road winding through the mountains became extremely muddy making it increasingly difficult for their carriages to move. By chance, they saw there was an abandoned mountain temple in front of them with a missing door and a worn-out wooden plaque that seemed could fall at any time.


    The coachman drove the carriage over. Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing entered first and tidied the inside for a bit. Taking out an animal hide from the carriage, they spread it on the floor and covered it with a quilt before calling their master to enter and rest.


    Ruan Zhu was carried off the carriage by Yun Shi Wei, passed through the temple doors, and placed on the temporary bed.


    She lied down on the prepared area, still feeling she was idly passing time, as if she was still on the carriage and had never gotten off.


    Lu Piao Xiang saw that her complexion was not good and his heart became melancholy: ¡°I will go out and hunt some prey to supplement your health.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was currently eating snacks and stood up at those words: ¡°That¡¯s enough, it would be better if I went. It¡¯d be a wonder if you, who plays the guqin, knows how to hunt. Moreover, she is my wife, what does she have to do with you? Don¡¯t be so attentive.¡±


    ¡°On such a rainy day, where would there be animals? We can just casually eat some things and let it be, it doesn¡¯t matter to me. I am just tired and will be fine tomorrow after resting tonight.¡±


    ¡°Who told you there are no animals when it rains? Do those prey not know the difficulty of an empty stomach and just hide in caves because it¡¯s fun?¡± Yun Shi Wei took off his chang pao, leaving only his duan da, and wrapped it around her waist: ¡°You have a child in your belly so how could you not eat meat? If Eldest Brother knew that I was not properly taking care of you, won¡¯t he skin me when he returns?¡±


    ³¤ÅÛ, Chang pao, traditional Chinese style gown or robe


    ¶Ì´ò, Duan da, more casual clothes meant for work


    Ruan Zhu heard him mention Yun Shi Yi and remained silent.


    Yun Shi Wei grabbed his familiar copper rod and slung a bow and arrow that he had pulled out from a chest on his back. Feeling too lazy to even wear a raincoat, he turned to leave.


    But Ruan Zhu couldn¡¯t help but to nag: ¡°Nuan Chun, give the tarpaulin cloak and bamboo hat to Second Master. The current weather has turned cool, it would not be good to be rained on.¡±


    ¡°Those toys are so inconvenient and makes me slower. Look, I¡¯m this strong and healthy, a few raindrops won¡¯t hurt me.¡±


    Not long after Yun Shi Wei left, sounds of a moving carriage materialized from outside the temple and came closer and closer. It was other travelers that had come to take a rest in the mountain temple.


    It could be said that the world was truly small as the family that came in was innkeeper Sun¡¯s from Mao Er Town. Among them was one person that had left the deepest impression on Ruan Zhu, someone that she had personally bought from a human trafficker. Although the Xuanyuan Min Zhi at that time had been in a difficult position, he had been very unyielding and his arrogant nature had been intact though he had been a little broken.


    At present, his lofty and unyielding character was barely visible and a sort of helplessness was unconsciously revealed in his eyes.


    The Sun family entered the temple interior. Seeing Ruan Zhu, Aunt Sun came over to give her greetings and Nuan Chun supported his master in sitting up. She was so exhausted she did not want to move and conveniently leaned against his chest.


    Nuan Chun¡¯s arm was wrapped around her waist. This was the first time she had been this close to him since she got married, so aside from gratification, he felt even more moved.


    ¡°Madam Yun, so you had also stopped to rest in this temple. It really is a coincidence that we have met again.¡± Aunt Sun smiled amicably as she walked over with her greeting.


    ¡°Yes, this world is indeed small.¡± Ruan Zhu also smiled in reply: ¡°Where does Aunt intend to go?¡±


    ¡°My relatives live far and I have not had dealings with them for many years now. How could I go there?¡± Aunt Sun sighed: ¡°Even if we did go there, they are poorer than us and I fear that we won¡¯t even a decent house to stay in. Fortunately, my older sister¡¯s family in Yu Zhou can still be considered well-to-do and have opened up two stores in the city. I¡¯ve heard that business is prosperous so wouldn¡¯t it be better for us to seek shelter with her and see if maybe we could also do some sort of small business?¡±


    Yu Zhou!


    ¡°Aunt Sun wants to go to Yu Zhou?¡± Ruan Zhu was surprised for a moment. Yu Zhou was certainly not an unfamiliar name as it was where her current self¡¯s maternal family lived.


    The Ruan clan in the city of Yu Zhou was very famous. During the time when the Great Ancestor was creating his country, the Ruan clan had contributed greatly. But as military hierarchy had been dismissed over wine cups[d], the Ruan family had announced they were returning to their old homeland and became ordinary commoners. However, the imperial court had been utterly generous with their ample endowments. Fields; gold; pearls; all kinds of treasures¨Cit was enough for the Ruan clan to survive for over a dozen generations with no problem.


    ¡°Now, we can only go to Yu Zhou and seek shelter with my older sister. The day before yesterday, refugees from the province said Mao Er Town had been occupied by the rebels. The imperial army had been ambushed by the Red Eyebrows and the number of casualties are innumerable. With only one small squadron remaining, the commanding general had led them into exile in Nan Ling in fear that the Emperor would place the blame on the army.¡±


    Aunt Sun said this while tears unexpectedly dripped down but Ruan Zhu was thinking of another thing. With their current speed, returning to Lan Zhou would require another month while going towards Yu Zhou only required five or six days. She was extremely exhausted and wanted to find a place to properly rest. But her husband Yun Shi Yi would surely return to Lan Zhou once he finished his work in Liu Zhou. Wouldn¡¯t this be a missed opportunity?


    Why not use the ancient method? She could post a notice on the bulletin of all the cities and towns they pass, explaining she had gone to Yu Zhou and for him to meet her there.


    Yu Zhou was not far from the capital. Reportedly, it was only a day¡¯s journey. After she has given birth, they could go play in the capital.


    The several servants of the Sun household were still busily transporting their luggage into the temple interior. An imposing and unordinary man entered her line of sight¨Cit was Xuanyuan Min Zhi. Both of his hands were unexpectedly shackled and there were also heavy fetters around his ankles. The long chain did not affect his work but it could be seen that he had been wearing them for a while as there were thick calluses on his wrists where the shackles were.


    Ruan Zhu looked at this honorable prince that, to her surprise, had actually been reduced into a slave?


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi had probably been tormented for too long and was disheartened for he returned an indifferent glance towards Ruan Zhu. But as a result of his body¡¯s poison still not being cured, his movements were sluggish.


    Aunt Shen sent a glare over: ¡°Useless thing, can¡¯t even check the inventory. You are forbidden from eating tonight.¡±


    ¡°Aunt Shen, he has made you dissatisfied?¡± Ruan Zhu asked in a small voice. That person¡¯s temper was very unyielding and tough, unable to bear humiliation. She was clearly dissatisfied, so was there a point in asking?


    ¡°Madam Yun, you have caused much trouble for me. I no longer want that person. If you think it best, you can just take him back!¡± Aunt Sun¡¯s face was bitter and she resentfully said: ¡°A poor beggar dares to put on airs with this mother, believing one is so noble. Telling him to undress and attend to this mother in bed, he actually took my words as wind past your ear[e] and wouldn¡¯t even spare a single glance in my direction.¡±


    [a] ÐÝÊé, lit. cease book, basically a divorce document from the ancient era


    [b] ³àü, Chi Mei, an actual agrarian rebellion that occurred around 17-26 AD. I really wanted to name them ¡®Scarlet Brows¡¯ bc ¡®Red Eyebrows¡¯ makes me laugh every time but alas. (Wikipedia)


    [c] ±­Ë®³µÐ½, idiom meaning an utterly inadequate measure


    [d] The Song dynasty¡¯s founding emperor, Emperor Song Taizu, held a banquet in 961 and persuaded his senior army commanders to go home to their provinces.


    [e] ¶úÅÔ·ç, idiom meaning something you don¡¯t pay much attention to; in one ear and out the othe

 Chapter 46

    The other was a royal prince of Nan Ling and was also the blood-related son of the current emperor, he naturally has a lofty and arrogant disposition! Ruan Zhu thought this but did not speak.


    Nuan Qing took out a bag of charcoal and poured some into the brazier before taking out flint and igniting a fire. One hand held a fan as he fanned the fire with tightly controlled movements and after a short moment, a very red fire burned brightly. He then searched for some red beans and wolfberries and simmered them in a pot, creating a very fragrant and thick soup. Ladling a bowl and carrying it over, he used a spoon to feed Ruan Zhu one mouthful at a time, while Nuan Chun, who had been mutually supporting Ruan Zhu and himself, used a handkerchief to carefully wipe at the corners of her soup-stained mouth.


    Aunt Sun looked on with envy: ¡°Your family¡¯s two bedwarmers are really considerate, much better than my own. How about I use Blockhead to exchange for one of yours?¡±


    Blockhead? Ruan Zhu looked at her in astonishment as she followed the others¡¯ gaze. It turns out Blockhead was Xuanyuan Min Zhi. She felt it was a rather fitting description as that person truly resembled a block of stubborn wood that did not know how to associate with others and did not know how to return kindness for kindness. He had a temper of a spoiled young master.


    Using my bedwarmer to exchange for your Blockhead, you could actually come up with this? If I didn¡¯t suspect Xuanyuan Min Zhi of being such a hot potato, I wouldn¡¯t have given him to you earlier. Wanting to send him back after fooling with him, that disgusts me. I¡¯ve already made a mistake once, wouldn¡¯t I be crazy to make the same mistake again?


    Nuan Chun heard the the other wanting to exchange for him and sent a resentful glare towards Aunt Sun.


    Nuan Qing was in the middle of feeding soup to Ruan Zhu. His hand holding the bowl trembled and a bit of the red bean and wolfberry soup spilled onto Aunt Sun¡¯s skirt. The scalding soup caused her to open her mouth in pain, but fortunately, it had been ladled for a while now and did not cause any injuries.


    Ruan Zhu berated him: ¡°What is wrong with you, why haven¡¯t you apologized to Aunt Shen yet?¡±


    ¡°Aiyo, Madam Sun, pardon me, please see it as this one not holding the bowl properly. Please do not take offense. How about I wash it for you later?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡­no need.¡± Aunt Sun knew she had provoked these two bedwarmers and awkwardly said: ¡°In any case, this material is not very good, how could I trouble you? I can just have Blockhead wash it later.¡±


    Again with ¡®Blockhead.¡¯ Ruan Zhu looked at Xuanyuan Min Zhi, full of sympathy. With a turn of her head, she saw Lu Piao Xiang also looking at the other in ridicule. That¡¯s right, ah, they had previously been acquainted.


    She remembered the armed confrontation that had occurred several months ago.


    Lu Piao Xiang was in a very good mood and leisurely sat cross-legged on a cushion with his guqin horizontally across his lap. His fingers lightly strummed the strings. Xuanyuan Min Zhi was just a little over five meters in front of him, lighting a fire. The two men glanced at each other and moved their eyes away, as if they strangers.


    Lu Piao Xiang felt Ruan Zhu¡¯s gaze and returned a faint smile. His hands slowly moved and a soothing piece flew out from his fingers, adding a poetic touch to the rainy day.


    Ruan Zhu looked at him, stunned. This was actually ¡°Across the Water.¡±


    She had only sung it once, yet he remembered and could also play it on the guqin. A great master was indeed a great master, able to let others respect them greatly.


    The sound of the guqin floated in the air, like moving raindrops so limpid and pure. Listening to the sound caused most of their exhaustion to vanish.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was still trying to start a fire. Every time he had just barely ignited the pot of charcoal, it would extinguish in the next instant and this sequence was repeated several times. Aunt Sun


    A pot of charcoal had just barely ignited but then extinguished in the next instant. This was repeated several times. Aunt Sun criticized him with disgust: ¡°Useless thing, go spread the bedding for Young Master. You are not needed here.¡±


    ¡°Scram, you thing that only knows how to eat. You¡¯re as stupid as a pig.¡±


    One of Aunt Shen¡¯s secondary husbands took over the job of lighting the fire and drove Xuanyuan Min Zhi away. The latter had an indifferent expression, perhaps because he had become used to hearing these kinds of words during this period and had long become numb.


    Ruan Zhu ate a bowl of porridge and let Nuan Qing give the rest to Aunt Sun to divide among her children,


    The Sun household had over ten mouths with seven to eight children. The eldest was in their teens and the youngest was only a few years old, causing the inside of the temple to be chaotic and noisy.


    The rainy weather made it somewhat cool. Nuan Qing found a fox fur cape and draped it over her. She stood up and indicated for him to support her in going outside. There were too many children here and the noise gave her a headache.


    Standing at the doorway, what entered her eyes was an endless range of mountains and hills that only appeared as faint silhouettes in the drizzling rain and fog. The distant areas appeared indistinct and fuzzy, making one unable to make out where sky and mountains met.


    Yun Shi Wei had already gone out hunting for a while. Nothing has happened to him, right?


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s head slightly ached and her mind was gloomy. The cool rain moistened her face while her thoughts wandered. What was her hubby Yun Shi Yi doing right now? The rebellion had blocked all the northern routes and he would have to take a detour if he wanted to return. Liu Zhou was classified as part of Nan Ling. He could either travel eastwards by a ship to take the water route or travel westwards through the country of Tu Bo and enter Han Zhong. No matter which path he chose, they were all very difficult. By the time they met again, their child would already have been born, right?


    She really wanted to let him see the child being born and experience that happy moment, but could she wait? Her sorrow spread and her eyes were slightly moist.


    An umbrella was placed over her head and the one holding it was Lu Piao Xiang. He was taller than her by a head and she had to tilt her head in order to see him. The man was simple and elegant as ever and his two clear eyes expressed his concern: ¡°Be at ease, nothing will happen to him. I can guarantee you this.¡±


    What did this mean?


    She abruptly raised her head to look at him. Was he comforting her or did he have a card up his sleeve to be able to say these words? She thought about the dispute between him and Xuanyuan Min Zhi several months ago and the situation where a group of black-clothed men appeared.


    Although Lu Piao Xiang was from a brothel, he secretly had some strength, right?


    ¡°I will not let anything happen to him. As long as you desire it, I will definitely accomplish it for you.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡­¡±


    She opened her mouth, wanting to ask him, but footsteps sounded from behind them along with the sound of iron chains sliding against the floor. The person had yet to arrive but one could feel an invisible pressure in the air.


    ¡°You even believe a courtesan¡¯s words?¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s hands and feet were shackled and he walked with difficulty, yet his face was still as cold as ice and frost. His pale complexion was not normal with its bluish-green tinge, and she remembered that Yun Shi Wei had mentioned before that there was a highly toxic poison in this man¡¯s body.


    Pitiful child! She expressed her sympathy in her heart.


    ¡°At least I am free, able to go where I wish to go. Can you do that?¡± Lu Piao Xiang held the umbrella over Ruan Zhu and faced the front. Although he was speaking to Xuanyuan Min Zhi, not even the corner of his eyes swept towards his direction.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi choked as Lu Piao Xiang had hit his sore spot. It wasn¡¯t that he did not have the opportunity to run away, but he had injuries all over his body and was afraid that he would starve to death not long after running away. By chance, a severe drought had also hit Tian Chu for the first time in several decades causing the average person to be unable to find food, let alone him, whose situation was currently not normal.


    He had previously thought to ask the local authorities for help but he unfortunately didn¡¯t have anything on him that could prove his identity.


    Even if there was proof, what of it? He forced a bitter laugh. His brothers wanted him dead and he was afraid that requesting help from the authorities would be walking into a trap.


    Ruan Zhu shot glances at the two men next to her.


    Both men were rather conceited.


    One was in a simple and elegant blue garment untainted with even a fleck of dust, his expression forever natural and indifferent, but she could see that there was a prideful heart underneath his exterior.


    The other one was covered in crude hemp clothes patched in multiple areas but because of his tall stature, his air was rather good and it instead gave him a beautiful unruliness. His background was noble and he had acquired an aristocratic sons¡¯ character that meant he still had an aloof expression despite his current dire straits.


    They were both so lofty and also taller than her. She felt oppressed standing between the two of them so retreated a few steps from Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s side. But the umbrella over her head was like an accompanying shadow, never leaving her.


    There was a fox fur cape draped over her so it would be no problem if she was splattered by a few drops of rain. But the men by her side did not think that way and always placed her on the same level of rarity as the giant panda, protecting her until the end.


    The noise from inside the temple traveled outwards. The noisy children laughed and played, as if they were fighting for something to amuse themselves with.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, return inside and help Nuan Qing. The Sun household has many children, do not let them meddle with our things.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was a little obsessed with cleanliness and was unwilling to let strangers touch her things. If people that were unrelated to her wore her clothes, no matter how expensive the item was, she would no longer be fond of it.


    During her college years, she had bought a chiffon skirt from the mall for over a 100 RMB[a] and one of her roommates had sneakily worn it out to a party with her boyfriend and stained it with a suspicious viscous fluid. She had become extremely furious after seeing it and would rather throw it in the trash than wear it.


    Nuan Chun responded in agreement and walked back inside the temple.


    Ruan Zhu looked towards the distant mountains, hoping to see Yun Shi Wei appear from somewhere. There were numerous jackals, wolves, tigers, and panthers[b] in the ancient mountains and she couldn¡¯t help but to worry.


    Not long after, a figure of a robust man came closer and closer from among the rain and fog. When they could clearly see, it was Yun Shi Wei with prey hoisted on his shoulder.


    Yun Shi Wei also saw her and waved his hand, speeding up his pace.


    ¡°Spouse, I¡¯ve hunted a deer and two pheasants. Later I¡¯ll simmer some chicken soup for you.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei threw the prey on the ground. Hunting pheasants was fine, but the so-called deer?


    Ruan Zhu foolishly stared at it. En, the head resembled a horse, feet resembled a deer, neck resembled a camel, and tail resembled a donkey, but it was clearly not either of the four animals. She had seen an introduction on this animal in CCTV¡¯s ¡°Animal Planet¡± and it was an extremely treasured species¨Cthe elk. A Grade One State protected species, they only existed in China. In the 18th century, the wild population became extinct and in the movie ¡¶The Burning of Imperial Palace¡·which Liu Xiao Qing starred in, only the emperor was qualified to eat its meat.[c]


    ¡°Do you like it? Spouse, this is elk. I¡¯ve eaten it before and the taste is great. Using its blood to simmer the soup is best for supplementing your body.¡± Yun Shi Wei was cheerful. His clothes were dirty beyond words and there were several holes both in front and back, revealing his barley-toned skin. The degree of dirtiness was on the same level as refugees heading north.


    But Ruan Zhu only thought that this time, his dirty self was cute and so dirty it made one comfortable.


    ¡°Take it a little further away and tidy it up. Don¡¯t call for me to see as I can¡¯t handle the smell of fresh blood currently. After all has been settled and cleaned, take it back and roast it. Once that¡¯s done, leave the two hindquarters for me. I¡¯ll eat them tomorrow in the carriage while we continue with our journey.¡± She thought for a moment. Elk was so precious, it would be a pity for it to be eaten by outsiders and there were over a dozen mouths in the Sun household. ¡°Let¡¯s also keep the two forelegs. We can slowly eat them tomorrow.¡±


    The autumn was cool and refreshing and the weather at night was much lower. Fresh food would not be spoiled if stored for one or two days.


    ¡°Spouse.¡± Yun Shi Wei grinned and said: ¡°If you like eating it, I can just hunt more for you. Even if elk are precious, it¡¯s not like we can¡¯t hunt them.¡±


    Ruan Zhu glared at him: ¡°So much nonsense. You should hurry and complete the work handed to you.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei saw that his wife liked it and his heart constricted happily as he agreed with enthusiasm. He shot a glance at Lu Piao Xiang: ¡°Guqin player, come over and help me skin the elk. Don¡¯t think about eating without any work, this father will not wait upon you.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang handed the umbrella over to Ruan Zhu: ¡°I will go help. If you feel tired, go back inside and lie down.¡±


    Ruan Zhu watched the two of them walking away, her heart rueful. After transmigrating to the ancient era, she was even able to enjoy an emperor¡¯s tastes. The elk of the future were all artificially reared so that even if she had eaten them, there wouldn¡¯t be much meaning as it would have lost its layer of mystery.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it just an elk, for you to have never eaten it before, your maternal family must be extremely poor.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s cool voice sounded from next to her ear and Ruan Zhu harshly gave him a glance. This person hadn¡¯t learned his lesson and he deserved to be shackled by the iron chains.


    ¡°How did you recognize me?¡± Several months ago, she had gone for a stroll along the streets with her husband and had unexpectedly ran into Xuanyuan Min Zhi. They had never exchanged a single word yet, against all expectations, he remembered her? At the fair, he had opened his mouth and asked her to buy him and she actually did so. But he wielded the bad temper of a young master, and she, Ruan Zhu, had never accepted one such as this.


    ¡°This prince has a highly retentive memory. Even if it has been a while, there is still an impression of every person this prince has seen before.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi coldly hmphed and disdainfully continued: ¡°You¡¯re that courtesan¡¯s favored patron, correct? Otherwise why would he use that sort of gaze to look at you?¡±


    ¡°What¡­¡­favored patron, what sort of words are you speaking?!¡±


    ¡°Since you can do it, don¡¯t pretend to be innocent. Which one of you women don¡¯t cheat on their spouses?¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi curled his lip, his entire face full of scorn. Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s expression was different when he looked at her, which is why he had paid attention to this girl and demanded her to buy him at the fair. But she actually dared to resell him soon after! Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s fury rose up again: ¡°To dare send this prince to and fro, you really have big dog guts. In the future when this prince has risen, I¡¯ll send all of you one by one into the mountain mines to dig ores.¡±


    Tian Chu¡¯s iron smelting business was painstakingly difficult but nothing could surpass the back-breaking work of the workers that dug for stones. The ones that went there rarely survived and they were all basically criminals that had been given the death penalty and sent into the mountains. If there was a shortage in workers, human traffickers frequently deceived foreigners and transport them into the mountains one group at a time. Aristocratic families also periodically sent their enemies here. All the workers in the mountain suffered bitterly and the ones with weaker constitutions only ever lasted three to four months.


    Ruan Zhu became irritated. It served him right to have such bad luck! Just now, she had been softhearted and wanted to help him a little. Fine, she¡¯ll take it back. She coldly countered him: ¡°You had better first take care of your current situation. Wanting to think about the future¡­¡­Hmph, who knows if you¡¯ll be able to survive til then?¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi required ¡õ to make him understand that there was no advantage or meaning in being arrogant since he was currently out of the palace.


    Ruan Zhu held onto the umbrella as she turned around and entered the temple, too lazy to continue speaking to the man, otherwise she would lose quite a few brain cells.


    During the evening meal, they sat with the Sun household in a circle around the rather large elk that was only missing its four legs. Yun Shi Wei sliced off the most tender meat next to the spine and handed it to Ruan Zhu before cutting off another large chunk and devouring it ravenously.


    Ruan Zhu ate the roasted meat while drinking the elk blood soup that Nuan Chun had boiled. This was the most fragrant meal she had had since leaving Mao Er Town, thus she ate a lot and was unable to sleep at night. Nuan Chun and Lu Piao Xiang accompanied her as they sat outside the temple, looking at the night view. Actually, there wasn¡¯t really anything to look at. The rain was still falling and the forest echoed with rustling leaves.


    Only after the children inside had all fallen asleep did she re-enter. The children were sometimes cute but also sometimes terrible. When she later has children, they must be carefully taught and disciplined. Lifting her eyes, she caught sight of Xuanyuan Min Zhi sitting in the corner with his eyes closed, meditating.


    Thinking of the scene of their meal just now, she wasn¡¯t sure why that pitiful man made others feel so vexed. Everyone was eating elk meat and drinking elk blood soup and only he was gnawing at dry rice dumplings.


    However, she would not be kindhearted.


    Nuan Chun dragged a cloth curtain across the room, separating their family from the Sun household.


    Yun Shi Wei was already asleep. Even in this cool weather, his body was still nice and warm. She laid next to him and soon fell asleep.


    In the darkness, only Lu Piao Xiang still had his eyes open. In this desolate country, he was not at ease and there must be someone keeping vigil.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi circulated his qi for an entire cycle and had forced down the poison in his body. He opened his eyes and coldly sneered at the other man that was similarly awake like him: ¡°Courtesans also know how to play with feelings, huh. You contemptible thing, how could our Xuanyuan clan have a blood relationship with a degenerate like you?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s eyes were slightly dark, his desire for murder seemingly stirred. His fingers pressed on the guqin case and lightly strummed. The bottom of the case opened, exposing a simple and unadorned sword which he then gripped in his hand¡­¡­

 Chapter 47

    Glossary


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    ¡°Since you have such a moral backbone, follow me into the woods.¡± Lu Piao Xiang stood up and shot a frosty glance at Xuanyuan Min Zhi. His toes lightly pressed against the ground and then his figure suddenly disappeared as he headed straight outside the temple.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi also stood up but he could not be like Lu Piao Xiang and use qinggong. If by chance his qi was disrupted, the toxin that had been so extremely difficult to suppress would wreak havoc again and his life may be over. Instead, he slowly walked through the temple entrance and into the forest.


    Lu Piao Xiang waited for a long time, a hand on his hips, a sword in his other. His attitude was relaxed and he slanted a glance at the approaching figure, faintly saying: ¡°Considering you are injured, you can first draw your sword. I would like to avoid others mocking me as a bully taking advantage of the weak.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi shook his shackles and lifted his head, slowly drawling: ¡°I don¡¯t have a sword.¡±


    ¡°Where is your Zhan Lu?¡±


    ¡°Not on me.¡±


    ¡°My mistake. You have already fallen into such a condition, how could Zhan Lu still be at your side?¡± Lu Piao Xiang used a cynical gaze to look at him, ¡°If you do not have a sword, then what did you follow me into the woods for? Has your life been too difficult lately that you are impatient to live and would like to commit suicide, specifically looking for me to end it for you as you lack the courage? Let me declare this in advance. I, Lu Piao Xiang, do not kill useless people nor cowards under my sword. If you have a reason for why you must die, there is no harm in saying it. Perhaps in my temporarily softhearted state, I may give you some rope to hang yourself with.¡±


    ¡°Courtesans are indeed courtesans, all words filled with obscenities.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi curled his lip. His two eyes were similar to an abyss, not revealing his emotions.


    ¡°Me being a courtesan, isn¡¯t that something I have to thank you for bestowing?¡± Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s clear eyes had a trace of ice but his voice was as insipid as ever: ¡°Say, if I took you as a disciple, wouldn¡¯t that be good? I can give you a stage name of ¡®White Peony, the Peerless Talent¡¯ and send you to the Mei Qing Lou on the shores of Lan River as their number one courtesan. Based on your ability and talent, those patrons would absolutely rush like ducks and not long after, your name would spread far and wide and you would become one of this generation¡¯s most famous courtesans on the shores of Lan River.¡±


    ¡°You really are despicable.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s face changed color and he clenched his fists, the sound of his clinking iron chains ringing throughout the forest.


    ¡°Since you know that, why provoke me?¡±


    With a wave of Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s wrist, the long sword was aimed at Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s throat. The blade of the sword was sharp, able to shear off even the finest of hairs. This was Qing Hong, a sword worn by the famous general Xiahou En of the Three Kingdoms and had been seized by Zhao Yun during the Battle of Changban and then later entered the imperial palace of Tian Chu.[a]


    But when had it been in this guy¡¯s possession? Xuanyuan Min Zhi did not even spare a glance at the blade held against his throat as he looked at the man holding the sword without a change in his expression: ¡°I think you should not be so dispirited. As a guqin player, how large of a future can you possibly have?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang squinted at him and indifferently smiled: ¡°Why do I not feel as if I am dispirited? As a guqin player, I do not steal nor fight, can making a living off of my own abilities and am able to fulfill my desires in all things. I can leave footprints all over and can be somewhat free and unfettered, happy and cheerful. Of course, you officials with only money in your thoughts would not understand these things, including what happiness is. All of you live for power and privilege.¡±


    ¡°But without power, one can only live like a dog with a lowly status. I previously did not quite understand, to the extent that I was defeated. But now I completely understand.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi spread out the iron shackles on both his hands, his expression helpless. ¡°If you are willing to help me, when I control all of Nan Ling one day, I definitely will not treat you unfairly.¡±


    ¡°You looked for the wrong person.¡± Lu Piao Xiang sheathed his sword and started walking towards the mountain temple outside of the woods. ¡°Our relationship is not that good that I can disregard our past enmity and assist you.¡±


    ¡°You fool, I¡¯m giving you glory, splendor, wealth, and rank; yet you don¡¯t want any of it?¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi suddenly bellowed in rage.


    If I wanted a high position and great wealth, it would all be easily obtained if I opened my mouth. Do I still need to use Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s charity? But what use was glory, splendor, wealth, and rank, to me? What on earth do I need that much wealth for, how much of it could I use?


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s mind flashed with the figure of Ruan Zhu and his heart momentarily softened. Under the Heavens, he only wanted her!


    Early the next morning, Ruan Zhu discussed with everyone about returning to her maternal family in Yu Zhou. She was really unable to endure the bumpiness of the long journey. Every day when getting on and off the carriage, she felt as if her bones were going to fall apart. If they continued onward, she wasn¡¯t sure if her life would still be intact.


    Yun Shi Wei saw that on this long journey, his wife had difficulty eating properly and also slept less, causing her to become much more wan and sallow than before. He was afraid something would happen to her so he said she could make the decision and he would listen¡­¡­


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing were extremely happy at hearing they were returning home.


    Lu Piao Xiang was indifferent. In any case, wherever she went, he would follow. He would not leave even if he was driven away.


    Following that, they continued as a group together with the Sun household. When they exited the mountains, they came across a fertile plain stretching a thousand li. The disaster was not as severe as at the southern border as it¡¯s been said that rain fell here a few times after summer started. Crops were moisturized and this autumn¡¯s harvest was fine.


    As they went further north, the number of refugees rapidly increased. The majority of them were heading to the capital but there were also some that had grown tired of walking and no longer wanted to continue, thus they stopped in various cities and sought to earn their living. But under these circumstances, there were many monks and not much gruel[b] so grain prices rose once again and because foodstuffs were always not enough, the matter of people starving to death occurred again.


    Rong Chen was at the mountain range that separated Yu Zhou and Lan Zhou. If one headed to the left, they would arrive in Yu Zhou; heading to the right would place them in Lan Zhou. Because she was going to alter the route here, Ruan Zhu let Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing place quite a few notices at the city entrance and close to several large inns to inform Yun Shi Yi that she had gone to Yu Zhou. Communication in the ancient era was inconvenient so posting announcements to seek relatives or other people was the commonly used method. This sort of information relay system was hard for civilized modern society to comprehend.


    The Sun household was dragged down by their large family. With over a dozen mouths to feed, their matters were not few. Even with just a meal, they demanded small advantages. They had only accompanied each other as a group for two days but all of the dried fruit that Ruan Zhu had brought from Mao Er Town had been completely wiped clean by them. As for all the other snacks, whenever they were bought on the road, they would be gone the next instant.


    Because there were many refugees headed north, the inns in Rong Chen were filled to capacity. Lu Piao Xiang rode a horse and searched for a long time before finding an extremely dilapidated inn in a hard to find alley. In any case, it was much better than the mountain temple and everyone checked in.


    Several men worked together to bring their items to their rented rooms. Bedding, cups, pots, and other utensils and so on, were all replaced into their own brand new ones.


    Ruan Zhu was so exhausted that her bones feel as if they would separate. They had barely tidied up when she fell onto the bed and refused to move. Being pregnant was indeed difficult, and especially with how fatigued she became with all the traveling, it was hardship added with even more hardship. She closed her eyes and fell asleep as Nuan Chun washed her feet.


    Nuan Chun saw that his master had fallen asleep and carefully moved her to a more comfortable position on the bed before covering her with the blanket.


    Ruan Zhu did not sleep very soundly. She kept feeling as if she was still on the carriage, swaying with each movement as they traveled on the road. An indeterminate amount of time later, she heard the sound of people talking:


    ¡°Quickly put it down. Our family¡¯s Miss has not eaten yet, you cannot take it.¡±


    ¡°I wanna eat, I wanna eat. Quickly give it to me, if not I¡¯ll beat you to death.¡±


    ¡°What is wrong with you, child, spoiled to where you are undisciplined and out of control?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was forced awake by the noise and saw a chubby girl around seven or eight years old by the table, kicking and hitting at Nuan Qing as she fought to snatch the food on the table. Ruan Zhu couldn¡¯t help but to frown and got up from the bed. Nuan Chun saw this and hurriedly came over to support her. The chubby girl took that chance to sweep the entirety of the food on the table into her lapel and ran out of the room.


    It was too late for Nuan Chun to pursue her, and he was so angry his face became ashen and curses poured out: ¡°A small animal without an education. It¡¯s not like these are your family¡¯s things for you to come in and snatch them. No sense of rules or conduct at all. I wonder how your family usually teaches their children for you to resemble a bandit?¡±


    Ruan Zhu understood the situation now and thought, Sun family¡¯s daughter has come to snatch food again. These past two days, this had frequently occurred. Every time they had bought a snack, she hadn¡¯t even had the time to eat a bite when the children of the Sun household had fought and eaten it all. She criticized Nuan Chun : ¡°These few snacks are of little value so if they¡¯ve snatched it, then they¡¯ve snatched it. What is this drivel about no education or being like a bandit?¡±


    ¡°I am just angry. Mister Lu saw that Miss was not feeling well and especially went out to a few streets and visited quite a few stores to buy sweet steamed yogurt; osmanthus pudding; chestnut cake; fortune cake; plum blossom sweet cakes; Seven Skills pastry; blossom fortune cake; over ten little snacks.[c] Miss had not even had the time to have a mouthful but entirely let that small glutton take it all. How could I let this be? She really is a good-for-nothing. Other families teach their children to be good yet their Sun family teaches them to be bandits.¡±


    ÌÇÕôËÖÀÒ | Sweet steamed yogurt


    ¹ð»¨ÌÇÕô | Osmanthus pudding


    Àõ·Û¸â | Chestnut cake


    ÈçÒâ¸â | Fortune cake


    ÷»¨Ïã±ý | Plum blossom sweet cake


    ÆßÇɵãÐÄ | Seven Skills pastry


    »¨¿ª¸»¹ó | Blossom fortune cake


    ¡°Whether other people¡¯s children are bandits or not, what does that have to do with you? Who needs you to worry about that? If others were to hear an adult male like you cursing a child, they would think it is us without any education and if all of the Yun family¡¯s servants dare to be this presumptuous, how domineering must their master be? Say, where would my face have gone?¡±


    ¡°Miss, aren¡¯t I just angry?¡± Nuan Chun was embarrassed.


    At this time, a knock sounded at the door and Nuan Chun went to open it. Lu Piao Xiang walked inside holding a very large oiled paper bag and set it on top of the table. Upon opening it, all sorts of fruits and pastries were revealed, in a spread that was much more luxurious than before.


    ¡°I guessed that the little gluttonous cat of the Sun household would come snatch them which is why I did not take all of them out. Nuan Chun, there is no need for you to be angry. In any case, your master cannot finish them all, so you should also have some. There¡¯s more than enough that your share would not diminish the pile.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang stopped his teasing and the Nuan Chun that just previously had been filled with fury, smiled: ¡°Actually, I am not a stingy person. It¡¯s just that I saw the Sun family¡¯s greedy goblin and lost my head in anger. She is just spoiled beyond ruin and is also a treasured daughter. Our Miss at that age was so clever and behaved, also friendly and courteous that all who met her were full of nothing but praises.¡±


    He and Nuan Qing had been sent to Miss at the age of twelve by their Miss¡¯s mother. At that time, Miss was seven years old. It could be said that they had watched her grow up and there were numerous profound memories.


    ¡°Oh? Go on.¡± Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s interest was piqued and he hinted for Nuan Chun to continue.


    Nuan Chun was about to speak but was interrupted by Ruan Zhu, ¡°Nuan Chun, you are a man, right?¡± Ruan Zhu propped up her chin with a hand, scrutinizing him. ¡°Why do I feel you¡¯re becoming more and more like a woman. Have you done too much needlework to become overly sensitive? So long-winded that your mouth doesn¡¯t close the entire day. For your future growth and maturity, how about you drive the cart tomorrow? You should also do more physical labor.¡±


    ¡°Miss!¡± Nuan Chun was sullen. Being the coachman was pretty much being given the cold shoulder. How could he bear it? ¡°This slave has never driven a cart before and is worried that when the time comes, Miss will be thrown off.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fine. You can drive your carriage, you don¡¯t need to worry about mine.¡±


    Men should have a bit of a man¡¯s quality. All day holing in their room, becoming someone that was not a male nor a female, she would have a headache just looking at them.


    ¡°Whatcha guys doing?¡± There was a sound at the door and Yun Shi Wei walked in and made his presence known: ¡°Who permitted all of you to gather in my wife¡¯s room? All of you leave for this father. Spouse, I had a shop simmer a bowl of herbal chicken soup to supplement your body. You should drink it while it¡¯s still hot!¡±


    ¡°Nuan Chun!¡± While the door had not yet fully closed, Ruan Zhu increased the volume of her voice: ¡°Go tell Aunt Sun that I am not feeling well and will stay at this inn for a few more days. If they are in a hurry, they can first depart and do not need to wait for us.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Nuan Chun straightforwardly responded.


    Yun Shi Wei closed the door: ¡°Spouse, if you¡¯re not feeling well, how about I go invite a physician?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not. I was just looking for an excuse to part ways with the Sun family. If we continue to let them cause a racket like this, not only will they eat until I¡¯m poor, but they will also drive me insane.¡±


    Ruan Zhu finished the herbal chicken soup under Yun Shi Wei¡¯s care. Ordinarily, she would not be willing to drink such a strong soup but could only force herself for the sake of the child in her belly.


    Changing into pajamas, she was about to lie down when Aunt Sun pushed the door open while holding a few buns.


    ¡°Aiyo, this girl, if you don¡¯t eat properly when pregnant, then that¡¯s one thing, but how could you give all of those delicious pastries to our family¡¯s daughter? She¡¯s only a little child, how could she eat that much?¡±


    Aunt Sun was just at this standard. She knew what kind of conduct her own child had but still unconditionally stood by her side and spoke those words.


    Covering up for others was not a bad thing, but excessive protection will only harm the child.


    Ruan Zhu stroked her belly and vowed in her mind, No matter how many children she had, she must teach them how to properly conduct themselves to not let others find them irritating. ¡°Aunt is joking, children eating and drinking is a good thing. Growing up strong and healthy and never falling ill will let us adults be at ease¨Cthat is a good thing. This bit of food is not worth the money.¡±


    ¡°Little Sister has spoken the words from my heart. It¡¯s just that my family¡¯s girl is a little too chubby, but that¡¯s a healthy weight. Haha, Little Sister, earlier when I was eating, I asked for a few more buns from the manager. It¡¯s mincemeat and very delicious.¡±


    Aunt Sun placed the buns on top of the table and saw that it was piled with all sorts of fruits and pastries. Her eyes flashed with envy. She had opened an inn in Mao Er Town and had a bit more money than others, but compared with the Yun family, it was truly the difference between heaven and earth. The price of grain remained high and snacks were a luxury to her pitiful child, thus she had had no choice but to come over and rob their food.


    She would not admit that her child stealing others¡¯ food was bad conduct. Since the other couldn¡¯t finish it all, they ought to share some of it with them. There was nothing wrong with that.


    Those few buns were without even a packaging and were directly placed on the table. Furthermore, there were even dark fingerprints on the dough. Ruan Zhu saw this and inwardly shook her head. She did not care in the slightest about how delicious it was but sanitation was a necessity.


    ¡°Aunt Sun, Nuan Chun should have roughly told you our situation earlier. My body is not quite well so we will stay in Rong Chen for another ten days to half a month so I can nurse my body. We cannot accompany you on this trip any longer and I ask for your forgiveness.¡±


    ¡°I had just heard all this from Nuan Chun. It really is a pity, we haven¡¯t spent enough time with you yet.¡±


    I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ve spent enough time with you. Ruan Zhu silently disagreed.


    ¡°Little Sister, about Blockhead, Aunt wants to discuss this with you.¡±


    Blockhead? Oh right, Xuanyuan Min Zhi!


    ¡°Originally, I had wanted to take Blockhead as a bedwarmer and have him serve me and I was willing to even promote him into a secondary husband. Perhaps that guy¡¯s brain has problems. Ai¡­¡­What secondary husband, what bedwarmer, I dare not think these thoughts any longer. Little Sister should just take him back, yes? You don¡¯t know how much that guy can eat. If this continues on, who will be able to take it? Our Sun family has somehow not yet been eaten to destitute levels by him.¡±


    ¡°Aunt Sun, since it is something that I, Ruan Zhu, have given, how could I take it back? Wouldn¡¯t this be hitting my own face?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s meaning was very obvious. Once given, no returns. She hasn¡¯t forgotten that the guy was a hot potato.


    There was nothing Aunt Sun could do about it and she left after chattering for a little while longer.


    The Sun family did not dare to stay an extra day in Rong Chen. The daily cost of staying in an inn was enough to make them unable to bear it and they deaded for Yu Zhou early the next day.


    Ruan Zhu rested in Rong Chen for two days. On the morning of the third day, their carriages headed for her maternal family in Yu Zhou, and after another four days, they finally arrived at the city of Yu Zhou.


    [a] Çàºç Qing Hong (also called Qing Gang) is one of Cao Cao¡¯s (leader of the Wei) two legendary swords. In Romance of the Three Kingdoms, this sword was entrusted toÏĺî¶÷ Xiahou En, one of Cao Cao¡¯s generals. ÕÔÔÆ Zhao Yun was a famous general under Liu Bei (leader of the Shu). ³¤ÚæÆ Battle of Changban was Cao Cao vs Liu Bei, that ended in a victory for Cao Cao and an evacuation for Liu Bei.


    [b] É®¶àÖàÉÙ, idiom meaning not enough to go around; demand exceeds supply


    [c] I tried my hardest with these names lol. Seven Skills pastry is named after the Qixi Festival (¡®Evening of Sevens¡¯), aka Qiqiao Festival (¡®Beseeching Skills¡¯). Blossom fortune is actually a traditional auspicious pattern in Chinese history that symbolizes a happy and rich life.

 Chapter 48

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    When it came to the Ruan clan that lived in the west of the city, there was no one in the whole of Yu Zhou that did not know of them. During the founding of the country by the Great Ancestor, an ancestor of the Ruan family had been at his beck and call and often showed his might. Even though he later went back to his province and returned to his maternal family, the imperial court remembered the contributions of the Ruan household and had bestowed a multitude of items that caused the clan to have never lacked for anything. Although several hundred years had gone by, the glory of the past laid the foundation for the Ruan clan¡¯s extraordinary status. On top of every generation operating businesses in the correct method, their numbers of farmland, shops, real estate, and silver they had stored in the banks only ever increased and had never lessened.


    The Ruan clan remained a large and influential family in Yu Zhou. The local governor, several prefectural magistrates, and the garrisoned general frequently curried favor with them. The reason was not because of the ancestor but because the Ruan family was wealthy beyond compare.


    Last summer, a flood had devastated the outskirts of the city. Thousands of commoners had drowned and countless houses and buildings had collapsed. If it were not for the Ruan clan funding the construction of these buildings and quieting the civilians¡¯ anger, there may have been civil unrest. If that had happened, the local official would have been punished by the imperial court. A lesser punishment would be the removal of their post as even saving their head would be difficult.


    This year, starting from spring, there was no rain for several months in a row and not a single grain of early season rice was harvested. Don¡¯t mention the farmers not having anything to eat, they didn¡¯t even have any seeds with which to plant the summer harvest. Once again, the Ruan clan stepped in and provided rice and backed the farmers in working their land. Fortunately, the Heavens were kind and rain fell several times, and the autumn harvest was not bad.


    These acts were gargantuan blessings during the natural catastrophes. After the imperial court was aware of these matters, unavoidable commendation was given. An imperial edict was issued, giving the Ruan family a black official hat. But the master of the Ruan clan had no intention of becoming an official and wholeheartedly wanted to continue as a commoner to preserve the accomplishments of previous generations, thus kowtowed in thanks but refused to receive the imperial edict.


    It was good that this current Emperor¡¯s vision was not bad. Even though his face was refused, he was too lazy to bicker with a small commoner. If the Emperor was someone lacking in experience or was narrow-minded, perhaps he would have ordered the execution of the Ruan clan under the charge of offending the Heavenly order.


    The Master of Ruan clan was precisely Ruan Zhu¡¯s father, Ruan Zi Xu. He had two daughters but no sons. Ruan Zhu was the eldest daughter and had been married off to Lan Zhou in spring. His second daughter still remained at home and the number of matches seeking marriage with her have broken their doorstep.


    These two daughters were both born of the principal husband and were Master Ruan¡¯s own flesh and blood.


    Madam Ruan¡¯s maternal family lived in the capital and her father was a military official from Qi Ping though his post was not high. Influenced by her family, Madam Yuan knew a few martial arts moves and her temper was also somewhat fiery but she was actually an exquisite beauty. She was already thirty-some years old and had given birth to over a dozen children but her figure still resembled a young maiden and caused her several husbands to increasingly love her like crazy.


    The entrance of the Ruan residence was like all other aristocratic clans, a lofty gate engraved with the pattern of all kinds of beasts. A guardian stone lion crouched by either side of the entry and on the vermilion gate, there was a plaque with a black background and six large words ¡®Imperial-Built Yu Zhou¡¯s Ruan Residence¡¯ written in large gold lettering. Reportedly, this plaque had been bestowed by the Great Ancestor that fateful year.


    Ruan Zhu was thinking. Her nominal parents lived just inside. She calmed her mind and carefully filtered through the remaining memories left behind in this body. After a while, she instructed Nuan Chun to lead the way west until they arrived at a side door. Exchanging the carriage for a sedan, she was then lifted by four porters and carried inside.


    The gatekeeper on duty hastily went inside to announce upon seeing that it was their family¡¯s eldest daughter returning home.


    The porters entered the courtyard and passed an arched door before stopping. From the courtyard interior came a group of small manservants that exchanged spots with the porters, but Ruan Zhu came out from the sedan as she saw a middle-aged couple walk out from the chao shou veranda that corresponded to the figures in her head.


    ³­ÊÖÓÎÀÈ | Chao Shou veranda (lit. folded arms veranda) | It goes along the courtyard and connects back on itself (green lines on picture)


    ¡°Daughter Ruan Zhu pays respects to Father and Mother.¡±


    Ruan Zhu kneeled down in kowtow and Ruan Zi Xu strode over and supported her up, choked with emotion: ¡°You¡¯ve left home for so long yet you don¡¯t even send a letter, that is asking for this father to worry. You child, how could you always make one fret? Your belly is already this big yet you still run around, if you have an accident, how would that be good?¡±


    Ruan Zhu controlled her rolling emotions and smiled: ¡°It¡¯s not that this daughter was not willing to write a letter, but Papa knows that daughter¡¯s writing is not presentable and was afraid that if Papa saw them, he¡¯d find them a joke. Mother would then be irritated and scold Papa for being unable to teach children.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu had been teased to happiness: ¡°Since you know, why didn¡¯t you properly study when you were younger?¡±


    ¡°Who told me to be like Mother? Mother is also not one that likes studying, so why don¡¯t you say those words to her?¡± Ruan Zhu said all of these intimate words and walked towards the middle-aged Madam that was standing not far from her father. When she came in front of her, she called out: ¡°Mother.¡±


    Unexpectedly, what awaited Ruan Zhu was a shower of scolding:


    ¡°You damned silly girl without any sense, the situation is so chaotic, and the famine is causing this year to not be any good. Fortunately, you became pregnant yet you arbitrarily run around. My grandchild hasn¡¯t even been born yet, how could they withstand the persistent torment?¡±


    After Madam Ruan finished scolding, she pulled Ruan Zhu left and right, looking her all over, her eyes a little moist.


    She had birthed two daughters to the principal husband and one daughter to a secondary husband. In addition, there were seven sons to other secondary husbands. Out of all of these children, her eldest daughter could not be considered one that stood out and her appearance was only of the upper-middle level. She did not pay particular attention to this child, but she couldn¡¯t help but to miss her as it¡¯s been so long since she left home.


    In the end, she was still her child, regardless of what had happened before, right? She thought for a bit and her eyes swept to Yun Shi Wei. As the two brothers very closely resembled each other, she was unable to distinguish between the two as she had only met them a few times and mistook him as the eldest Yun brother. Opening her mouth, Madam Ruan started reprimanding again: ¡°Zhu Zhu is young and isn¡¯t sensible but how old are you already? Useless thing, you don¡¯t even know how crucial it is for a woman to conceive? If by chance an accident occurs, I¡¯ll see what you do then?¡±


    Madam Yun always spoke harshly but it was without any bad intent. Whatever she thought of, she would scold but after she finished, she would feel refreshed and even she wouldn¡¯t remember what it was that she was scolding for.


    Being admonished, Yun Shi Wei became nervous but did not forget to kowtow before his parents-in-law.


    Ruan Zi Xu helped him up but couldn¡¯t help but to also berate him: ¡°You child don¡¯t even know the slightest how to feel distressed for your wife and don¡¯t think twice when doing things. How could I be willing to hand over my daughter to you?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei hastily explained: ¡°We had previously gone to the southern border for a stroll and who could have imagined that Zhu Zhu would coincidentally become pregnant? The southern border was hit with both the drought and the rebels and Eldest Brother went to Liu Zhou to deal with some matters with wood and has still yet to return. We couldn¡¯t wait any longer and were forced to leave but returning to Lan Zhou requires a very long journey so that is why we came to disturb Mother and Father.¡±


    It was at this moment that Madam Yun knew that the one in front of her eyes was the second son of the Yun clan. She swept her eyes aside and saw a handsome young man that exuded a noble and refined air like a calm lotus standing upright in the water.


    ¡°This Mister is?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was just about to introduce him when Yun Shi Wei opened his loose lips: ¡°He¡¯s called Lu Piao Xiang. He is a guqin player and intends to enter our house as number three.¡± He was the second, so per seniority, Lu Piao Xiang really was third, but this sort of introduction actually made Ruan Zhu embarrassed.


    ¡°Mother, that¡¯s not right, Lu Piao Xiang did not come here to be number three.¡± Ruan Zhu was flustered and wanted to clear the situation.


    ¡°This one is Lu Piao Xiang, family is from the capital, and has come to see Aunt and Uncle.¡± Lu Piao Xiang gracefully cupped his hands in greeting and faintly smiled: ¡°May Aunt and Uncle not take me as an outsider as Shi Wei did not speak falsely¨CI indeed came here to become number three.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was embarrassed to death. It turns out the phrase ¡®number three¡¯ could be thrown around like this by the ancient people. But this number three should be different from the ¡®number three¡¯ of the future, right!?[a]


    The more this so-called mother in law looked, the more she took a liking to him. Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s cultured and refined bearing had won over the good impression of the two parents of the Ruan household.


    Ruan Zi Xu led his daughter and son-in-law into the main compound. This was a richly built building with five large rooms and written on the plaque above the main entrance was the words ¡®Jin Se Hall¡¯. Entering the central building, the parents pulled their daughter away for a few words and after seeing her exhausted expression, arranged for her to rest in a heated room.


    Ruan Zi Xu called for people to prepare a room for Lu Piao Xiang and allocated a few servants for him before pulling Yun Shi Wei into the study, inquiring of their circumstances. Upon hearing that Yun Shi Yi had yet to return, he inevitably became worried. He also asked a little more about Lu Piao Xiang and Yun Shi Wei said all that he knew.


    Madam Ruan dispatched the small servant by her side to notify everyone in the household to have their meal at Jin Se Hall.


    Ruan Zhu had been given a bellyful of words she should say to the Yun parents when she met them next and didn¡¯t expect the meeting with her parents would be this this relaxed. When she entered the heated room, Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing attended to her as she changed into a set of lounge wear, washed her feet and laid on a soft couch bed to rest.


    A servant of the Ruan household served some tea and refreshments but she wasn¡¯t in the mood to eat. She was too tired and fell asleep not long after she had laid down.


    Perhaps because she was familiar with this home, she slept particularly soundly. When she woke, she saw a young girl sitting by the head of the bed using a pair of large watery eyes to look at her. Her skin was satiny white and glossy, like something cut out of jade, which naturally pleased the eye.


    Ruan Zhu had a good impression of her and knew that this was her full-blooded little sister Ruan Yu.[b]


    ¡°Eldest Sister, earlier I went to the Ci Shan Hall in the north of the city and only knew you had returned when I returned to the residence. It¡¯s been so long and you don¡¯t even write a letter home, I thought you no longer wanted us and this home anymore. After all, when that matter occurred at that time, you weren¡¯t very happy. But I indeed always thought my eldest sister was good, hmm!¡±


    ¡°Why do you say that?¡± Ruan Zhu was curious. Could it be that when ¡®she¡¯ had been married off to Lan Zhou there had been an ulterior motive?


    Tears fell from Ruan Yu¡¯s eyes: ¡°Us two sisters have had a good relationship ever since we were little but as it happens, you were married off to distant Lan Zhou, leaving me alone at home. Although our siblings are not few, but there is no one that knows me like you do.¡±


    Ruan Zhu beckoned to Nuan Chun and the latter came to support her in sitting up. She held a handkerchief and used it to wipe at Ruan Yu¡¯s tears. Smiling, she comforted: ¡°Didn¡¯t I come back? What are you crying for? If worst comes to worst, is accompanying you every day in the future not enough?¡±


    Ruan Yu¡¯s small face was taut: ¡°Eldest Sister is taking me for a child. You already have a husband, how could you accompany me every day like in the past?¡±


    In the few scattered memories left in Ruan Zhu¡¯s head, the second daughter of the Ruan family had a large role, but what had really happened at that time?


    Ruan Yu hatefully spat: ¡°Those concubines with rotten consciences tried to frame our Papa with poison. Isn¡¯t it all to have Mother sever her relationship with Pa and to take advantage of our Ruan family¡¯s assets?¡±


    There was this situation? Ruan Zhu felt a little slow.


    ¡°Fortunately, Eldest Sister had taken the responsibility of the poison but was punished by Mother to stay in your room for a month and later was sent to Lan Zhou to be married. It¡¯s been this long yet you don¡¯t know how much suffering you¡¯ve received?¡± Tears once again fell from Ruan Yu and she sobbed: ¡°At that time, there were three families that weren¡¯t bad who had asked for your hand in marriage but the qualifications of the Yun family in Lan Zhou were the worst and they were also the ones farthest away. For Mother to do that, isn¡¯t that disliking you?¡±


    ¡°That can¡¯t be!¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s head throbbed painfully. Ancient family affairs were so chaotic and they couldn¡¯t be cut off. Even logic was twisted. ¡°I think Mother treats me very well and earlier I was in a cheerful mood.¡±


    After all, Ruan Zhu was Madam Ruan¡¯s own flesh and blood that the latter had birthed out of her own belly. Even if a concubine is favored, it was unlikely to replace the love in the natural mother-daughter bond. Besides, she felt that Madam Ruan was not muddled. Maybe she understood some of it deep inside her but in order to maintain control of this large household, she had to pretend to be so.


    ¡°I hate that I¡¯m not male and can¡¯t inherit Father¡¯s properties. But anyway, I won¡¯t let those concubine-born children have their way with it.¡± Ruan Yu¡¯s eyes were very firm: ¡°All of those uncles that branched off from the Yun clan want to send in their son to our Papa, and Mother¡¯s concubines also want to do the same with their sons. They are all truly dreaming. As long as I am here, I absolutely won¡¯t let them bully us.¡±


    Ruan Zhu understood now. It turns out all of this was for the inheritance.


    Ruan Zi Xu walked inside the heated room. His eyes were filled with a trace of tears and a hand stroked his two daughters¡¯ beautiful hair. His voice was rather dejected: ¡°It is this father that is not good, letting you children also have to bear wrongs.¡±


    ¡°Papa!¡± Ruan Yu cried out and got up. ¡°What kind of talk is Pa saying, what sort of wrongs could I possibly feel? On the contrary, it is those greedy bastards without a conscience that feel wronged. Every time they appear in front of my eyes, don¡¯t they have to lower their heads?¡±


    The status of a secondary husband was low and was equivalent to half a slave. When favored, they still could not be placed on par with the principal husband. The children of these slaves, even if given an identity of a Young Master or Lady, were only noble to a certain moot point. Otherwise, why would they separate it by legitimate-born and concubine-born?


    ¡°Pa!¡± Ruan Zhu stood up and saluted in greeting. Thinking of the memories in her head, the previous Ruan Zhu had always been this docile and sensible.


    Ruan Zi Xu helped her sit down and softly reproached her: ¡°Your health and body are so important, what are you minding these meaningless rites for?¡±


    Yet Ruan Yu placed her hand on top of her sister¡¯s belly, her expression showing that she was considering something. Ruan Zhu nudged her hand away. In her last life, she was an only daughter and did not understand the affection between siblings. Being so intimately touched, she felt a strange emotion that she didn¡¯t know how to explain.


    ¡°Eldest Sister!¡± Ruan Yu lifted her head and suddenly said: ¡°If you give birth to a son, you should give him our Ruan surname, okay! He can enter the Ruan clan¡¯s family tree and can become Papa¡¯s heir, okay?!¡±


    What kind of argument was this? Ruan Zhu was stunned silly. Say she agreed, but would Yun Shi Yi also agree? The Yun clan also had business and a lineage that needed to be inherited. Furthermore, as a father, how would he be willing to have his own flesh and blood not carry his surname? In addition, their child would have to pray at another family¡¯s ancestral hall to another family¡¯s forebear?


    But Ruan Zi Xu placed his hopeful eyes on Ruan Zhu: ¡°The Ruan clan has a lot of assets and the amount of people in Tian Chu that can compare is also few. Which part of our clan does not cause others to covet? But unless it is my, Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s, own flesh and blood, no one has the qualifications to inherit. Zhu¡¯er, Father does not want the first son of your principal husband. After a few years, if you could give one of your concubine-born sons up for adoption, this father will raise him to be the most outstanding legitimate eldest grandson and have him inherit my Ruan family.¡±


    Ruan Yu clapped her hands: ¡°Let¡¯s do it like that then. Papa no longer needs to be anxious about the successor. We¡¯ll just have those avaricious and insatiable people cough up blood!¡±


    Ruan Zhu considered it for a while: ¡°This matter isn¡¯t urgent, let¡¯s wait a few years.¡±


    Ruan clan was so wealthy, how could she have the nerve to let her son monopolize everything? What if Ruan Yu also had the same idea one day?


    To Ruan Zhu, it wasn¡¯t essential to have too much money. It was fine to have just enough to use and disputes based around money were absolutely not necessary.


    The evening meal was exceptionally ceremonious and all of the Ruan household was present and sitting in the main building. All the secondary husbands sat at one table, children sat at another while their respective servants stood beside them to serve them. Because Ruan Zhu had just returned for the first time since she married, she sat with her parents. Ruan Yu had said she missed her second sister so had also squeezed in.


    While eating, Ruan Zi Xu wanted to give his wife some dishes before filling his daughter¡¯s bowl full as well. Thinking a bit, he also decided to add some food to Yun Shi Wei¡¯s and Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s bowls. Lu Piao Xiang did not dare to accept but Yun Shi Wei was one that loved to prattle. After picking some things up with his chopsticks for Ruan Zhu, he then focused on eating.


    The Ruan family paid particular attention to eating in silence. During the meal, only Ruan Zi Xu said a few words of reminders to the younger generation and then afterwards kept silent.


    After the meal was finished, tea was served and they finally started chatting.


    Ruan Zhu sized up each member. She could basically find clues in her brain about everyone based on their appearance. The information was neither complete nor that clear, but it more or less was enough for her understand who each family member was. As her eyes swept the room, she saw that concubine-born Ruan Ju had discretely fixed her gaze on Lu Piao Xiang.


    [a] СÈý lit. small three is slang for mistress aka the other woman. The joke is that they¡¯re using СÈý literally while she¡¯s thinking of it in modern terms.


    [b] The Óñ Yu in her name means jade.

 Chapter 49

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    This Ruan Ju was only thirteen years old and stirrings of amorous feelings were already starting to sprout. Ruan Zhu turned it over in her mind: It was common for an ancient maiden to marry at the age of twelve or thirteen, but to steal glances at a man this obviously and it was also towards a man that could very possibly become her brother-in-law, what exactly was this silly girl thinking of?


    Ruan Ju stealthily continued to stare at Lu Piao Xiang for a while and then came over to salute the Ruan couple. She had always been scared of Ruan Zi Xu but hated leaving the mother that had raised her that was opposite him and walked over to pull at her arm: ¡°Mother, earlier I heard the servants that Elder Sister had brought back say that Mister Lu plays the guqin very well. In any case, we don¡¯t have anything to do right now, so how about we let him play a tune that will put everyone in a cheerful mood?¡±


    ¡°Impudent.¡± Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s face sank. He could see that Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s bearing was beyond what was normal and that he was certainly not a child of an ordinary household. How could he be treated like an entertainer?


    ¡°Father, what did daughter say wrong?¡± Having said that, Ruan Ju turned towards Madam Ruan with a face full of grievances. Didn¡¯t Mister Lu only have a secondary husband¡¯s status and weren¡¯t those concubines of Mother¡¯s always being bossed around? She was also the Third Miss of the Ruan clan, how could she not even have the privilege to prompt him to play the guqin?


    ¡°Ju¡¯er, be good and sit by the side. Mother has prepared a few dolls for you in the room, and later your concubine-father will send them to you.¡± Madam Ruan straightened Ruan Ju¡¯s lapel and pushed her towards the seat beside her.


    Ruan Zhu watched the spectacle with her large eyes, feeling Madam Ruan also had a side of her that was affectionate toward children, but it simply depended on who it was. Turning her gaze away, she saw Ruan Yu tightly clutching her belt. Because her fingers were using too much force, they had turned white and blue.


    All children in each household were divided into ones that were pampered and ones that weren¡¯t! Ruan Zhu inwardly sighed and placed her hand on top of Ruan Ju¡¯s, patting it in comfort. Ruan Ju flipped her hand over and gripped it, the two sisters silently transmitting solace to each other.


    But Lu Piao Xiang had the intention of entering the Ruan clan, thus he instructed a small child to fetch his guqin from his room. After a moment, the guqin arrived and he played a song in front of everyone. By the time the song ended, it was as if everyone in the room had been drunk from the melody.


    Of course, except for those that did not understand music, such as Yun Shi Wei, who yawned. Annoyed, Ruan Zhu pinched his armpit. She really applauded that he could become sleepy in this situation.


    Yun Shi Wei jumped up from pain, simultaneously swinging his arm and complaining: ¡°Spouse, why do you pinch in all sorts of places, a pinch here really hurts.¡±


    His actions caused the entire room to laugh. He didn¡¯t care; on the contrary, Ruan Zhu was rather embarrassed.


    ¡°It¡¯s not early, everyone can disperse!¡± Ruan Zi Xu waved his arm and said towards Ruan Zhu: ¡°You must be exhausted after so many days on the road. I¡¯ve had people tidy up your Furong Garden[a] again, you can just take Shi Wei with you and retire for the night!¡±


    The secondary husbands and their sons and daughters walked over to salute and say ¡®good night¡¯ and one after the other left Jin Se Hall. Lu Piao Xiang also took his leave.


    Yet Ruan Yu pulled at Ruan Zhu¡¯s sleeve, her expression one of not wanting to leave: ¡°Papa, I want to sleep together with Eldest Sister tonight.¡±


    ¡°Another day, all right? Your Eldest Sister has just returned home and is very tired. Her health is also very important right now and cannot look after you.¡± Ruan Zi Xu saw there were not many people left in the room and indicated for Yun Shi Wei to leave first before saying to Ruan Zhu: ¡°I see that Shi Wei is one that does not know how to look after someone, how about having Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing sleep in your room tonight?¡±


    ¡°Pa, how could you also manage this aspect? I am not used to that many people in the room.¡±


    In this era, before girls were married, they were arranged bedwarmers that usually looked after their daily meals, and in necessary times, could also accompany them in bed. But families tended to pay particular attention to etiquette and ceremony due to the honor they had to give to the bridegroom¡¯s family and for the most part, were not willing for their daughters to have sexual relations with servants before marriage. Thus, bedwarmers were required to wear chastity belts. But after they¡¯ve left the maternal home, there was no need for those things as bedwarmers were precisely the tools for a warm bed.[b]


    ¡°Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing have been with you for so long now. How is it you are married with a principal husband yet are not accustomed to them?¡± Ruan Zi Xu wrinkled his brows, ¡°The number of men by your side is too few. I see that Mister Lu is not bad. He understands the situation, is tactful, and is also very considerate towards others. As your father, let me accept him on your behalf, all right? If he is there to take care of you, this father feels very reassured.¡±


    Were the fathers of Tian Chu all like this or was Ruan Zi Xu just an unusual individual? Why did he even have to manage how many bed companions his child had? Ruan Zhu awkwardly responded: ¡°Mister Lu has not yet agreed. Moreover, how could his parents be willing to let their son become a secondary husband? You oldie shouldn¡¯t do things based on your wishful thinking.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu nodded his head: ¡°It seems finding a matchmaker would still be best.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was startled: ¡°It¡¯s too early, I am only fifteen years old and am not anxious in accepting more secondary husbands.¡±


    ¡°Does Eldest Sister not like Mister Lu?¡± Right at that moment, Ruan Ju had walked to the entrance but had turned back around after hearing those words. A pair of large eyes spun as they stared at her: ¡°If Eldest Sister does not like Mister Lu, how about giving him to me?¡±


    Ruan Zhu stared blankly at her. The other person, Lu Piao Xiang, was not merchandise, how could she give him away as she pleased? Though she wasn¡¯t clear about Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s history, it could be inferred from the other¡¯s consistent behavior that he must have an unusual family background. Giving him to others, she did not have that right or power.


    ¡°That, I¡¯m afraid is out of the question.¡± Ruan Zhu insipidly refused.


    Faced with Ruan Zhu¡¯s cold rejection, anger ignited in Ruan Ju¡¯s eyes and she shouted: ¡°How about I exchange two of the bedwarmers by my side? They know how to dance and know how to sing little songs and are also very good at looking after others. You¡¯ll definitely like them.¡±


    There were several pretty boys kept in Ruan Ju¡¯s courtyard. Able to dance and sing, they usually made a racket until the middle of the night. Now and then, she even dressed them up as girls and made a game of beautifying them. Madam Ruan had closed an eye to this and believed it was a harmless child¡¯s game.


    ¡°My apologies, I cannot agree to that.¡± Ruan Zhu still declined.


    ¡°Why are you so fickle and stubborn?!¡± Ruan Ju¡¯s expression changed.


    I am fickle and stubborn? From where did these words come from! Ruan Zhu almost burst out laughing. This person could truly invert black and white.


    Ruan Zi Xu impatiently looked at this spoiled concubine-born daughter. If she fancied something, she would believe it was surely hers and demand for it as if it was something that should be hers by rights, going so far as to not consider the other party¡¯s feelings. This time, she actually had placed her sights on her eldest sister¡¯s secondary husband!


    He really wanted to see what sort of reasoning she could come up with, so he silently sat down on a taishi chair on the side and sipped his tea. What a pity his wife had left to relieve herself and could not see what sort of virtues her always proud daughter had.


    Ruan Yu nearly blew her top and she coldly addressed Ruan Ju: ¡°I¡¯ve never met someone like you who does not know what shame and humiliation is. I have to go ask Second concubine-Father how exactly he teaches his children. Being absurd in your own courtyard every day is whatever but this time you¡¯ve actually placed your crooked way of thinking on Eldest Sister¡¯s secondary husband. Why bother not respecting your own self and make a fool of yourself for no reason? I think today Third Sister has no need to return to your own courtyard, just stay in Ju Se Hall and carefully listen to Father¡¯s teachings and rules to better understand what is called propriety, justice, integrity, and honor.¡±


    Ruan Ju was so angry her face had undergone great changes. Second Sister frequently liked to taunt her with her concubine-born status and those words put her on the spot. Lifting her eyes, she saw that her mother was not in the room and there was only Father sitting while drinking tea. Because she was not his blood-related daughter and they were separated by blood, she didn¡¯t dare to be too presumptuous and only aggrievedly said a phrase: ¡°Papa, look at her¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu loathed her to where words were unable to describe and indifferently said: ¡°Return and make a hundred copies of the Diamond Sutra. Hand them to me in three days time.¡±


    Ruan Ju was stunned silly and then screamed: ¡°I¡¯m going to find Mother, Mother won¡¯t treat me like this. All of you are bullies!¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu heavily placed his teacup down and looked at her coldly: ¡°Remember, you must personally copy it. Others must not write on your behalf.¡±


    Ruan Ju immediately burst into tears. Adding to her originally remarkable appearance, all who saw her would inevitably feel pity. But the Ruan family members turned a blind eye to her. Ruan Zi Xu acted as though she was not present and drank his tea; Ruan Yu looked at her with her entire face filled with ridicule.


    At this time, Madam Ruan walked inside. Catching sight of her little daughter reduced to a shadow from grievances, her heart desperately ached. Once she had pulled her into her embrace, she pointed her finger at the few people in the room and let them have it: ¡°You all took advantage of my absence to group up and bully Ju¡¯er. A father and two sisters, which one of you is not bigger than Ju¡¯er? How could you not be afraid to be made into jokes by the servants?!¡±


    Ruan Ju continued to wail: ¡°Ma, Papa wanted me to copy the Diamond Sutra and do it one hundred times.¡±


    Madam Ruan cried out: ¡°What happened? Husband Lord, Ruan Ju, this small child, does not understand things. Even if she spoke wrongly or did something wrong, there is no need to punish her with copying the Diamond Sutra a hundred times! Is your heart that hateful?¡±


    ¡°Why do you not ask what she said?¡± Ruan Zi Xu sneered: ¡°The children of my Ruan family are not ones that do not know how to conduct themselves, simply not ones that do not know what the so-called ¡®propriety¡¯ is.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Madam Ruan felt the matter was very serious, otherwise her Husband Lord would not be angry to this extent.


    Ruan Ju lowered her head, concealing the hatred in her eyes: ¡°I only said to have Eldest Sister give me Mister Lu. I didn¡¯t ask her to do that with nothing in return, I said I would use two of my bedwarmers in exchange.¡±


    After she said that, she didn¡¯t hear a response from Madam Ruan for a long time. Lifting her head, she saw her mother sighing: ¡°If there is nothing else, you can return. Remember to copy the Diamond Sutra one hundred times.¡±


    ¡°Ma!¡± Ruan Ju screamed.


    Madam Ruan beckoned to the little servant boy by her side: ¡°Mei Yue, send Third Miss back. The weather at night has become oddly cool so don¡¯t forget to give her another cloak.¡±


    Ruan Ju saw her Mother¡¯s grave attitude and could only pout in response.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s and Ruan Yu¡¯s parents¡¯ moods were not good and the two sisters also left after giving their greetings.


    Embarrassed, Madam Ruan gave an apologetic smile towards her gloomy Husband Lord: ¡°Ju¡¯er was outrageous, blame me for not teaching her well. You also know it¡¯s not easy to manage such a large family and there¡¯s also so many matters regarding the children.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu coldly smiled: ¡°No matter what crime a person commits, be it murder or robbery, the imperial court will all punish them according to the law. Yet you are actually backwards. Today, poison; tomorrow, stealing a secondary husband. You are fully aware of the entire situation but you still indulge them, causing my Zhu¡¯er to follow suit and suffer the consequences?¡±


    ¡°The matter of wrongly accusing Zhu¡¯er was my fault, I admit. Didn¡¯t I later also get to the bottom of it?¡±


    ¡°What about the mastermind, hmm? What did you do to him, did you punish him for his crime or did you cane him?¡±


    The mastermind was the secondary husband Wei Rong, who had been born with a seductive appearance that could steal others¡¯ souls and was even more beautiful than some women to a degree. Although he was over thirty years of age, his sexy appeal had somewhat been changed to a mature charm that always hooked onto Madam Ruan¡¯s soul.


    Madam Ruan flushed with humiliation: ¡°I¡­¡­Didn¡¯t I stop going to his courtyard for a long time after?¡±


    Madam Ruan had this good side of her¨Cas long as it was wrong, she would change. But good side aside, even after changing it was still possible to repeat the same crime.


    ¡°Madam.¡± A small servant boy came in to report. He glanced at Master Ruan before stammering towards Madam Ruan: ¡°A message has come from Second Master Wei¡¯s side, asking if Madam would like to retire for the night in his place.¡±


    ¡°I understand, you can first withdraw!¡±


    Madam Ruan dispatched the small servant boy and looked at Ruan Zi Xu, hesitating. She had provoked her Husband Lord into anger and leaving like this seemed unreasonable.


    Ruan Zi Xu coldly sneered: ¡°That side has already sent word over. Why don¡¯t you quickly go over otherwise you¡¯ll make the other one anxious to death.¡±


    Him saying this made Madam Ruan even more embarrassed to leave. She retorted back furiously: ¡°I¡¯ll go where I please, who needs you to control this?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu was happy inside, knowing his indirect psychological attack had worked. Walking forward, he picked her up horizontally and walked towards the inner rooms¡­¡­


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Ruan Zhu arrived at Furong Garden where Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing had already asked people to prepare bath water. They knew their master did not like for them to serve her in this matter, but they were worried her large belly would make it inconvenient for her so they requested Yun Shi Wei, who was still in the courtyard practicing martial arts, to go inside and assist her.


    Regarding this task, Yun Shi Wei was naturally up for it. Slipping out of his clothes, he jumped into the tub and caressed his wife¡¯s oh so soft body, his heart sweeter than honey.


    The author has something to say: The word count is a little lacking but I¡¯m tired today so will make it up tomorrow.

 Chapter 50

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    The country of Tian Chu called the province a road. It was only a few short months but the number of Red Eyebrow troops at the southern border had reached four hundred thousand. They had broken through many cities and occupied each road of the southern border. Wherever they went, they raised their flag¨Cwait for riches and equal farmland for all. The impoverished people received benefits and one after the other responded to the call, joining the ranks of the Red Eyebrow army. The land of the wealthy were divided and all of their foodstuffs and belongings were robbed clean while the people themselves were kicked to the streets from their lofty glazed-tile rooms, their clothes having been peeled off until almost nothing was left.


    The conflict became more and more intense. The main forces of the uprising were heading towards the capital and the number of people fleeing north also increased with the rich bringing along their entire family and belongings as they moved. An endless stream of carriages moving along the roads towards the capital could be seen every day, along with hordes of refugees both young and old carrying iron pots and packages.


    The Emperor urgently sent troops to the southern defense line and issued an imperial edict to recruit troops from all regions. Many commoners that had been affected by the disaster one after the other joined the ranks of this new army in order to fill their bellies.


    As there was a famine and also the issue with the rebels, the amount of money the imperial court had spent was quite a bit, and the imperial treasury was exhausted. There were not many deposits left in the inner storehouses and there was no alternative but to pass down another imperial edict to have merchants and businessmen fork over their money.


    When Ruan Zi Xu received this news, he took the lead and contributed one million taels not for anything else but to ensure their safety. Fortunately the Emperor was rather open-minded and the country of Tian Chu had never been like those past dynasties that kept a tight leash on merchants. Merchants donated money and the Emperor was happy to do them a favor¨CYou earn your money and when I have an issue, you¡¯ll help me resolve it; you¡¯re good to me, I¡¯m good, everybody¡¯s good.


    The emperor consulted with his court for many days and arrived at a verdict. It was imperative to preserve the corn that comes from Jiang Nan to be able to have a steady flow of foodstuffs to the capital. But Jiang Nan was far-flung and transportation was not something easily done. However, Lan Zhou was to the north of Jiang Nan. In the event the capital was not possible, they could move the capital to Lan Zhou if necessary. Not only did that city have an abundant logistic supply, they could also guarantee the safety of the items.


    As the largest merchant in the country of Tian Chu, Ruan Zi Xu spent an exorbitant amount each year to bribe influential members of the court so his network was very wide. After he received this piece of information, he immediately sent competent subordinates to Lan Zhou to prepare things, such as buying real estate, shops, fields, and other things that would guarantee the moving of their entire family in the future.


    The rebellion continued and life also continued.


    On this day, a luxurious carriage came to a stop in front of the Ruan clan¡¯s residence and a gorgeously-dressed middle aged couple came out claiming to be Mister Lu¡¯s parents who have come to visit their son.


    The guard on duty led the two into the gatehouse to rest and took the proffered calling card as they went inside to announce. Not long after, Ruan Zi Xu came over to greet them and led the way into the drawing room of the main building. The distinguished guests and host sat down in their respective seats and a small servant boy soon served up fragrant tea.


    Ruan Zi Xu sent someone to inform Lu Piao Xiang, who was currently staying in Zhen Xia Pavilion, saying the Lu parents were currently here.


    Master Lu and Madam Lu¡¯s appearances were proper and their bearing were within the societal norms. They lived in the capital and had opened a very prosperous high-end restaurant and had a residence with seven compounds. Although they fell far short of the Ruan clan¡¯s wealth, they could also be regarded as a rich family.


    After a while, Madam Ruan received news, to please invite Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s mother for a meal in the inner courtyard.


    Lu Piao Xiang entered the drawing room. Seeing him, Master Lu hastily stood up.


    Lu Piao Xiang faintly smiled as he bowed in greeting. The older man¡¯s expression was a little frantic and was about to bow in return but with a glance from Lu Piao Xiang, he foolishly paused and then promptly straightened up.


    ¡°Pa, please sit. This child will present tea to you.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang smilingly picked up the steaming fragrant tea on the table and handed it over. Master Lu was just about to stand up but trembled under the others¡¯ meaningful glance and hurriedly sat down and received the offered cup but did not dare drink.


    ¡°Fifth¡­¡­fifth high¡­¡­¡± Master Lu was a little tongue-tied.


    ¡°Pa, if you old one has something to say, just say it. Uncle Ruan is a very good person, don¡¯t be nervous.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s attitude was easygoing and there was a smile in his eyes, but only Master Lu could sense the threatening implication in his words. Indeed, he was not used to such a courteous Lu Piao Xiang. The sight was even more painful to bear than if he had been caned. He straightened his frenetic emotions and cleared his throat: ¡°I received your letter in the capital, saying that you have become close with the Eldest Miss of the Ruan clan and wanted to take their family¡¯s daughter as your wife?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang gave an authentic laugh: ¡°Pa has thought wrong. This child does not want to take their family¡¯s daughter as a wife, I want to enter the Yun clan and become the Eldest Yun Lady¡¯s secondary husband.¡±


    Master Lu was dumbfounded and only found his voice after a moment had passed: ¡°How¡­¡­How could that be possible?¡±


    ¡°How could that not be possible?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang was still smiling but his eyes held a trace of ice. Others could not sense this but the distance between him and Master Lu was small, scaring the latter so that his heart trembled and he quickly said: ¡°Of course. Yes, of course.¡±


    ¡°Pa has given his consent?¡±


    ¡°Consent¡­¡­consent to what?¡± Master Lu stared blankly at him.


    ¡°Naturally of this son¡¯s marriage and entering the Yun clan as a concubine. Pa won¡¯t oppose it, right?¡± Lu Piao Xiang slowly reminded him.


    ¡°No, of course not, heh heh, I won¡¯t oppose it.¡± Master Lu laughed as he responded but only he knew that he was basically crying.


    The marriage was decided just like this?


    Ruan Zi Xu somewhat did not believe it. He had thought it would be very troublesome as after all, Mister Lu was not an ordinary person and his family¡¯s qualifications were also like that. He could very easily take a young lady of equal status as his wife and safeguard the grand position of the principal husband.


    Master Lu really doted on his son too much! If his son said one, it would be one, and the father would basically not dare to say two! Ruan Zi Xu shook his head. But in regards to his eldest daughter¡¯s marriage, this was a good thing. Except, even in his dreams, he would have never expected that these parents of Lu Piao Xiang were fake, and it would be a very long time before he would know the truth of the matter. By that time, the raw rice would long have been cooked and his little grandchild would be old enough to buy soy sauce.


    During the period when the two Lu parents were visiting their residence, Ruan Zhu was reclining on the bed, wasting time by giving the child in her belly some math problems and reciting the multiplication tables from one to nine quite a few times. Pregnant women were all very lazy. Besides eating, they only knew how to sleep. However, compared to the women of this era, Ruan Zhu had an advantage that was precisely prenatal education.


    Her kind of prenatal education was different. The majority of women read aloud poems to their unborn children while she would recite the ancient verses that she had memorized in her past life once and then take out this era¡¯s huqin[a] and play the same songs that she would do on the violin. If she felt too bored, she could also play ¡®The Butterfly Lovers¡¯ for her child to listen.


    Today while she was still prattling on about math, Nuan Chun walked inside, saying Mister Lu¡¯s parents had arrived from the capital to their residence and Madam Lu was currently in the inner courtyard chatting with our family¡¯s Madam, asking Miss to please go over and meet them.


    Ruan Zhu was a little surprised and a little nervous. Up til now, she didn¡¯t quite believe the matter of Mister Lu wanting to become her secondary husband.


    The husband was not at home and the wife gave him a large and bright green hat to wear. No matter how she thought of this situation, it was rather comical, yet everyone thought it was as it should be and there was nothing wrong with it.


    She sat in front of the bronze mirror to dress up. But to be honest, no matter how a pregnant woman adorned herself, it wouldn¡¯t be of much use. Her eyes were swollen, hands and feet were swollen, waist¡­¡­ai, let¡¯s just not talk about her waist, the entire world knew about it anyway.


    Wearing a water-blue cloud brocade qixiong ruqun and adding a little rouge, she walked out of Furong Garden with an arctic fox fur cloak lined with silver satin over her shoulders.


    ÆëÐØñàȹ | Qixiong ruqun


    Currently, winter had already began. Her courtyard was called Furong Garden but inside, there was not even half a flower. Only the corners were still as green as before with the few xiangfei bamboo adding a touch of warmth to the bleak winter landscape.


    Yun Shi Wei was not in the room. Not long after arriving in Yu Zhou, he had made a few friends and practically went out with them every day to hunt or walk dogs or such.


    Ruan Zhu arrived at Jin Se Tang with Nuan Chun lending an arm in support. In the main seat sat her mother from the same bloodline and next to her was a middle-aged woman with an amiable expression. Her appearance was proper and seemed to not resemble Lu Piao Xiang but their personalities seemed to differ by more than a single degree. However, a good temperament was something nurtured by the future and had nothing to do with what was innate.


    Were the aristocracy born with power?


    There were also many cases of children being college students while their parents were farmers.


    Let¡¯s just not confuse ourselves with this question of whether they were similar!


    Nuan Chun removed Ruan Zhu¡¯s fox fur coat and she bowed in greeting to Madam Ruan: ¡°Greetings to Mother, Zhu Zhu pays her respects.¡±


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, this is Madam Lu, Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s mother, who has just arrived from the capital.¡±


    ¡°Greetings to Madam Lu!¡± Because their relationship had not been ascertained, she only bowed in respect.


    However, even if their relationship was defined, Lu Piao Xiang was a concubine. A secondary husband¡¯s parents were not considered relatives, much less in-laws.


    Madam Lu seemed to be even more nervous than her and had stood up.


    ¡°Miss Ruan does not need to be polite. My family¡¯s fifth¡­¡­that¡­¡­My family¡¯s child has already written a letter explaining everything. Miss Ruan is very beautiful, bright as ice and snow, multi-talented, a rare good lady in our country of Tian Chu. To be able to take you as a daughter-in-law, cough¡­¡­No, for our child to be able to enter your Yun clan as a secondary husband is the good fortune cultivated from a previous life.¡±


    The status of a secondary husband was very low. Families that were more concerned and picky were all unwilling for their son to be a secondary husband as they didn¡¯t have any honor and their children had to follow the principal husband¡¯s surname. Only when they had settled down outside and established themselves could they regain their ancestor¡¯s family name and pray to their own family¡¯s forebears and have the qualifications to enter their own family¡¯s ancestral hall.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, don¡¯t always stand, quickly sit by Mother¡¯s side. Mei Yue, pull the brazier a little to this side to warm up Eldest Miss¡¯s body.¡±


    ¡°It is all right Mother, I am not cold.¡± Ruan Zhu sat by Madam Ruan¡¯s side, feeling slightly gratified in her heart. Even though this nominal mother usually conducted herself in a biased manner, in the end she was still her own flesh and blood. She couldn¡¯t receive the best but the treatment also wasn¡¯t necessarily the worst.


    Madam Ruan right away saw that the marriage was promising and was very happy that her daughter was accepting such a man as a concubine. It was rare for others to receive such a wealthy and noble man as those families would only send their sons over if they made some demands and benefited.


    But that did not in the least imply that secondary husbands could freeload. He could live in the principal husband¡¯s home but all of his food and drink expenses must come from his own family. If he didn¡¯t bring that much with him, that was easy to deal with, he could just go out and earn it. Not only would he have to earn enough for his share, he would also have to earn enough for his children and his wife, otherwise they would not have enough to eat or enough to drink, and them being evicted onto the streets would not be considered a wrong.


    The matter of Ruan Zhu accepting a secondary husband had been decided and the wedding was very simple. Ruan Zi Xu had wanted to use his influence to arrange it but was blocked by Lu Piao Xiang. The reason, that was only known to him, was that he was afraid someone would recognize him. Thus, the grand wedding ceremony did not come to be. There was only a meal shared by the families and some fireworks to commemorate the occasion.


    Picking an auspicious day, Ruan Zhu followed Lu Piao Xiang in paying respect to the flower altar before entering the bridal room. Until her veil was lifted, she felt as if she was in a dream. So far, she had three husbands, but this was the first time in her life that she had worn bridal clothes and also her first time being a bride.


    ¡°What are you thinking of, Wife?¡± Lu Piao Xiang hugged her from the back. To him, the unclothed Ruan Zhu was the most beautiful and his eyes were filled with deep affection. Reaching out to undo the final restraint on her body, his hands stroked upwards.


    ¡°I currently cannot do that thing.¡± She hung her head, her face reddening.


    ¡°Relax, I just want to hold you closely and won¡¯t hurt you.¡±


    He placed her hand on his groin. Separated by a layer of silk, a very thin chain pressed painfully against her hand. It was actually a chastity belt.


    He also raised his firm arm to show off a dark red dot. She touched it with her finger. Was it a birthmark? What did he show this to her for?


    ¡°This is the gecko cinnabar dot that I have particularly guarded for my partner for twenty one years.¡±


    She looked at him in astonishment. He was a mister of a brothel in Lan Zhou. Leaving aside how he had been schemed into entering, he presumably must have terribly suffered to preserve his undefiled state, right?


    ¡°How were you framed into entering the red district and how did you manage to even remain intact?¡± He was the son of a wealthy and prosperous family. To be set up into entering that place, it must be an odd story, right?


    ¡°How should I say this, hmm?¡± Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s eyes flashed as he deliberated for a moment before he slowly opened his mouth: ¡°My older brother from another father is jealous of and resents me and is afraid that I will steal his spotlight. Because my mother¡¯s principal husband does not have a blood-related son, it is inevitable that an heir will be chosen from among us bastards. Our family is also strange as the principal husband and wife are not like other families where men from different families can become secondary husbands. The old ancestors wanted to ensure the pure bloodline of the heirs so the wife could only pick secondary husbands from the brothers of the principal husband. En, it¡¯s precisely a certain stupid woman that married somebody causing that man¡¯s brothers to have to become that stupid woman¡¯s concubines, numbering five in total and outsiders have no qualifications at all to enter. Saying it like that, you understand it now, right?¡±


    Ruan Zhu nodded her head. Just like how she had married the Yun brothers at one time, she had married two brothers while Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s mother had married five brothers.


    ¡°If only the principal husband had a son, then all would be well. It is that he doesn¡¯t have one that things became complicated. The secondary husbands have multiple sons and in order to have even the tiniest bit of advantages, they¡¯re willing to fight for the sake of their own interests until they become irreconcilable adversaries with no one willing to yield to the others. Among those, I, hmm, just so happen to be the one that excels the most and the one that has most entered the principal husband¡¯s eyes. That one brother of mine became jealous of me. Perhaps at that time he was still small, hmm, and the way he did things was not as malicious as now, in the future. When I was seven years old, on some moonless night when the wind was strong, that older brother of mine colluded with several servant boys and fed me a sedative, trussed me up tightly and that night sent me to the pal¡­¡­cough, sent me out the family gates and threw me into the mouth of an alley where a broker lived. I passed through numerous people before being sold to Lan Zhou¡¯s biggest Mei Qing Lou.¡±


    Ruan Zhu quietly listened. Even though Lu Piao Xiang said this all this lightly, her heart found it hard to take and the corners of her eyes became moist.


    Lu Piao Xiang laughed and used a finger to wipe away her tears: ¡°It¡¯s already been so long that I can no longer remember it clearly.¡±


    He faintly smiled but there was a trace of sadness in his eyes. The Heavens knew how terrified he had felt when he had been kidnapped. In the carriage, he had been stuck in a group of children that were on their way to being peddled and couldn¡¯t even eat. Unable to endure the extreme hunger, he had no choice but to undo the deer leather belt around his waist and slowly chew on it.


    During the first few years after he had been sold to Mei Qing Lou, he had been forced to learn all kinds of skills. If there was the slightest wrong, beatings; scoldings; withholding food, were all frequent events. One after the other, he tolerated all of these things. He had a gift for music since he was a child and the first time he played the guqin in front of others was when he was fourteen. Afterwards, his reputation quickly spread.


    Fortunately, courtesans and prostitutes were different. Courtesans were not like prostitutes who sold their bodies; what courtesans sold was their skill. He had continuously retained his virgin status but if there was a patron that staked a thousand pieces of gold on one throw[b], the money-grubbing brothel keeper would, under those circumstances, also force courtesans to take the plunge and fish for gold.


    It wasn¡¯t like those situations did not exist but he cleverly avoided them all. All along, he stealthily mapped out an escape and spent a fortune to have someone bring back a secret martial arts book. He secretly practiced martial arts and the year he turned sixteen, he threw a sum of silver he had earned from playing the guqin at the brothel keeper and left Mei Qing Lou, never to return.


    As he had been a courtesan, he shouldered the reputation of a courtesan even though he had left the brothel, but Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s splendid reputation as the number one of Lan Zhou¡¯s Four Great Misters spread.


    He did not care for the world¡¯s glory, splendor, wealth, and rank or the power of a monarch¨Call were not placed in his eyes. He simply wanted to be an unrestricted person without any responsibilities that could leave his footprints all over the world with a guqin under his hands.


    The past was like a tide and incessantly flashed in his mind, but the person by his side was not well-behaved: ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I want to give you an unforgettable bridal night.¡±


    She was undressing him and didn¡¯t expect his outer appearance to be as refined as a lotus. His figure was extraordinarily sturdy and his six-pack was like solid bricks. His skin was smooth to the touch and its color was closer to white but nevertheless was of a healthy luster.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be willful, your present body can¡¯t.¡±


    Under the touches of the pair of small, soft and smooth hands, a ** sort of limp feeling emerged in his body¨Cvery hard to bear but also very thrilling. The thing at his crotch was growing and was painfully restricted by the metal sheath. He had never experienced this sort of sensation before and his face was a rosy red.


    She lowered her head and kissed his chest, not forgetting to fiddle with his two red plums. Using her lips to suck on one, her tongue playfully licked it¡­¡­After a while, she spit it out and used two fingers to pinch it while she lowered her head again to lick the other one, sometimes nipping, sometimes using the tip of her tongue to tease him.


    ¡°En¡­¡­.don¡¯t be like this¡­¡­hurts¡­¡­I can¡¯t take it.¡± He clenched his teeth and groaned as his body uncontrollably trembled. The metal sheath on his lower half wanted his life. His root that had continued to grow was being ruthlessly crushed and the pain went so far as to pierce through him.


    ¡°Give me the key.¡± She suddenly talked but her lips did not leave him. She trailed kisses down his chest. Finding a gap between the chains on his lower half, her tongue ventured forth and tasted the skin inside.


    ¡°Ohhhhh¡­¡­¡±


    He swiftly found a small and delicate key from inside his pocket and handed it over. She took it, inserted it into the keyhole and undid the metal restriction around his crotch, allowing the thing between his legs grow at a speed visible to the naked eye.


    Lu Piao Xing was shocked. He hadn¡¯t thought his little brother could grow to be this big. Being fondled by that pair of small hands that slowly tormented him, it unexpectedly grew a little more and in an instant, a blazing inferno ignited in his underbelly and set his entire body on fire. He painfully bent his body but the sensation of her skin was also incomparably satisfying. He couldn¡¯t help but to straighten his buttocks and push them forward, making his shaft in her hands move in her direction. The more it throbbed, the more pain he felt, the more happy he felt, the more excited he felt¨Chis entire body shivered with an unspeakable pleasure.


    ¡°Nnnn¡­¡­¡± He cried out, his blazing eyes glued to her exquisite chest as her two full peaks shook along with her movements. He watched until his throat became dry and then extended his hands to hold them, lightly kneading. Countless currents flew from up top and throbbed in his body, arousing him further and rippling within him, just like how the notes when he played the guqin melodiously undulated inside him.


    He thought he was going to die within those two small hands, but who would have imagined that what let him desire death and desire life would be her small mouth. The hot and moist sensation attacked him and his rationality ceased to exist. With wide eyes, he looked at that beautiful head of cloud-like hair underneath him. Unconsciously, his hands encircled her and he aimed at her open small mouth and slowly thrust forward.


    He discovered his body was becoming hotter and hotter, scalding hot.


    Her mouth gave him an enormous sense of fullness. No, she wasn¡¯t only using her mouth. Her hands had also stretched behind his buttocks and were fondling between his legs. In a split second, the fire inside his body blazed even hotter and surged even higher.


    His body had never been teased like this by another person. It turned out this sort of feeling was actually the joy of this secular world.


    He hurriedly sucked in air as he was afraid he would suffocate and die, his body on the verge of collapse.


    In his brain, countless lights gathered, their movements chaotic. Those lights gradually formed into a sphere. He stared with wide eyes when suddenly, the lights flared and become blindingly bright.


    ¡°Ahhh¡­¡­!¡± He roared as the dense passion accumulating inside him for twenty-one years was finally released. His entire body violently twitched. He felt as if he was suddenly flying, and it was a fantastic sort of high.


    Gigantic waves crashed down on him and he felt fierce pleasure. His body seemed to not be his own and his entire frame was soaked with sweat. Only until his reason had returned did he discover that his released enthusiasm was all over her face.


    He wiped her clean with the towel that had long been prepared and placed on the side table.


    ¡°You silly little girl, you truly have the ability to torment someone to death.¡± He lightly smiled. His entire body was relaxed and the corners of his eyes curved from happiness born from the bottom of his heart. He lowly sighed: ¡°So this kind of sensation could be this wonderful.¡±


    ¡°If you enjoyed it, I can do it again for you tomorrow morning. After all, I can¡¯t let your wedding night be dry and tedious, right?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang picked her up and sat her down on top of his legs so that her back was against him. He hugged her and his hands temporarily rested on top of her chest: ¡°You are so good to me, I will also send you the most beautiful gift.¡±


    ¡°What kind of gift?¡± Gold, silver, pearls, and precious stones were all good, but she didn¡¯t particularly love them. If it was possible, she wanted Yun Shi Yi to return. She would not forget the words he spoke¨CNo matter how many secondary husbands you have in the future, I request to forever be your number one.


    ¡°Yun Shi Yi has almost returned.¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± She abruptly turned her head, her eyes wider than brass bells.


    ¡°I have said it before, I will not let anything happen to him. As long as you desire it, I will accomplish it for you.¡±


    [a] ºúÇÙ Huqin is a family of Chinese two-stringed fiddles. The erhu belongs to this family.


    [b] Ò»ÖÀǧ½ð, idiom meaning to throw away money recklessly; extravagant

 Chapter 51

    Glossary


    [1] ³½ | chen | one of the ancient Chinese two-hour periods; designated for 7-9 am


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    ³ß | chi | a Chinese foot, about one-third of a meter


    Ruan Zhu originally had the habit of lazing around in bed, and after becoming pregnant, she became even more unwilling to get up before the sun¡¯s rays were gleaming brightly in the sky. The matter of paying respects to her mother was also naturally excused. No matter how partial Madam Ruan was, her treatment of her own daughter would of course not be like how a mother-in-law treats her daughter-in-law.


    Master Ruan placed great importance on this grandchild of his that would soon enter the world and instructed the kitchen to send fresh supplements every day.


    Unlike her last life, Ruan Zhu did not have to wake up early to go to class and also did not have to work herself to death during the holidays. In such a cold winter, who would be willing to get up that early? Nowadays, she was heavily pregnant and had even more reasons to dawdle in bed. When half of the time of chen[1] had passed, meaning it was a little over eight o¡¯clock, Lu Piao Xiang supported his wife up and fed her a bowl of pigeon soup and two meat-filled soup dumplings. She afterwards pushed him away, and falling onto the bed, burrowed inside the quilts and went back to sleep again.


    Lu Piao Xiang helplessly shook his head: ¡°Just sleep a little more then!¡± He called for Nuan Chun to enter to tidy the room while he himself picked up a book to read in front of the bed.


    While reading, he kept stealing glances at the bed; the corner of his mouth exposing a smile when he recalled last night¡¯s affair. As he was thinking, his body unexpectedly reacted. Wrinkling his brows, he could only seriously concentrate on his book to not think about those sexual matters and after a while, the swelling at his crotch disappeared.


    While Ruan Zhu was sleeping again, another half of a sichen passed. In the courtyard, Yun Shi Wei practiced two rounds of boxing, one set of rod techniques and then ran to the back garden to stroll in a large circle. Seeing that all the plum blossoms had bloomed, he broke off a few branches and handed them to Nuan Chun when he returned back to the room for the latter to keep them in a vase.


    ¡°Why is she still sleeping? It¡¯s so late, how can she handle it. Sleeping so much, won¡¯t she become ill?¡±


    ¡°How would I know?¡± Lu Piao Xiang bitterly smiled and put down the book in his hand. A few days earlier, Ruan Zi Xu had instructed for them to take his daughter out to the courtyard for some air every day, saying for them to make her walk more so that the childbirth would be easier.


    But Ruan Zhu did not cooperate, causing them to always be reprimanded by her father and not daring to talk back.


    Yun Shi Wei had muttered behind Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s back: ¡°It¡¯s not like you don¡¯t know what kind of conduct your daughter has. Always venting your anger on us, I have called you father-in-law in vain.¡±


    Not only were these words heard by those gossip-loving servants, they also spread to Ruan Zi Xu. Absolutely disgraceful! What was wrong with his daughter? His daughter was so clever and so gentle yet he dared to slander her? This kid, Uncle will not be polite when dealing with nephews! As a result, Yun Shi Wei was banned from leaving the residence to go out hunting or to play.


    Yun Shi Wei was one that loved to be active all day and night. Being forbidden from leaving the residence made him dejected and every day, he could only leisurely roam around the residence to stretch his limbs.


    ¡°Spouse, time to wake up, the sun¡¯s gonna toast your butt[a].¡±


    Yun Shi Wei walked to the head of the bed and struck twice at her buttocks that was covered with a quilt. He was neither light nor heavy-handed and immediately swatted Ruan Zhu awake. She looked at him, bewildered, and rubbed her eyes before giving him a lazy smile.


    Lu Piao Xiang beckoned Nuan Chun to enter the bedroom with water so she could wash her face. He personally freshened her up while she brushed her teeth by using a warm and moist towel to wipe her face and hands, changed her clothes, and brushed her hair.


    Being attended to like this made Ruan Zhu feel very comfortable as she had not felt this feeling ever since Yun Shi Yi left. Yun Shi Wei had brushed her hair for her before, but after he had yanked out several strands of her hair, she no longer dared to bother him.


    The way Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing brushed her hair was also very nice, but it always lacked the feeling of being cherished.


    She gave Lu Piao Xiang a sweet smile and smacked a kiss on his cheek, but actually ignited his enthusiasm/passion. Kicking Nuan Chun out, he pulled her over for a long kiss.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s kissing technique was very good from all of her previous practice. A small and sweet tongue teasingly twisted in circles inside Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s mouth, causing the latter to be unable to control his emotions. Pressing her close to him, he kissed her for a very long while. Only when he sensed her breathing had become unstable did he let her go, the both of them panting.


    ¡°Spouse, I also want.¡± Yun Shi Wei moved closer.


    He had just come back from exercising outside and the stench of sweat was all over his body. Smelling it made Ruan Zhu very uncomfortable. She stared at him: ¡°Go brush your teeth first and come back after you¡¯re clean.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already brushed my teeth this morning and even used mint leaves to wipe them all once. If you don¡¯t believe me, look.¡± He opened his mouth for her to see and sure enough, there was a hint of a cool minty scent on his teeth. She was pulled into his arms and was like a small bird enclosed inside his wide chest.


    Yun Shi Wei lowered his head and caught her tongue, sucking on it, and also inhaled away all the saliva in her mouth. His tongue continued to venture inside her mouth and even teased her throat.


    This sort of kiss was very uncomfortable; she felt as if she was going to choke and frantically beat at him with all of her might.


    Lu Piao Xiang stepped over and pulled Yun Shi Wei away. Ruan Zhu could breathe again and gasped for air with large breaths, her pale complexion becoming a little better. She scolded: ¡°Are you seeking death? Where did you learn these tricks from; do you want someone¡¯s life?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t like it?¡± Yun Shi Wei scratched his head: ¡°My group of friends said this sort of kiss would make a wife very happy. They also said¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Said, your ass!¡± Ruan Zhu looked left and right. It just so happened that Nuan Chun had been driven out by Lu Piao Xiang earlier and didn¡¯t have time to take the chicken feather duster with him and had placed it on the table. She picked it up in passing and brandished it against the one without a brain.


    ¡°Spouse, if you wanna hit someone,well, a real man doesn¡¯t fight with women so I¡¯ll leave first.¡± Yun Shi Wei clutched his head and ran out of the room.


    ¡°Come back this instant!¡±


    Ruan Zhu made to chase after him but was entirely wrapped up in Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s arms. He took away the feather duster in her hands: ¡°You also know his temperament. Why bother with this meaningless anger that could harm your body?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang put her shoes on, draped a fox fur cloak over her shoulders, and pulled its hood over her head. With one hand wrapped around her waist and the other supporting her arm, he coaxed: ¡°Let¡¯s first walk around the back garden. The plum blossoms in the courtyard have all bloomed and you should go take a proper look while I personally play the guqin for you. Didn¡¯t you say you wanted prenatal education or something?¡±


    Yesterday, the physician who had been invited over had said the date of delivery was getting closer and for everyone to be on the lookout. These past few days, he had also paid more attention but Yun Shi Wei was suspicious and slept like a pig every night.


    Lu Piao Xiang currently slept by Ruan Zhu¡¯s side and opened his eyes at even the slightest sound of activity. When he first heard that a woman giving birth was the same as hovering in front of the gates of hell, he had been extremely nervous. He only wanted her to be well and within his sight; he would be happy with just that.


    This was Ruan Zhu¡¯s first child and there was fear and dread in her heart. She had seen quite a few movies and TV series in her past life and would become scared just thinking of the terrible scene of childbirth.


    During her college years, there was actually a female teacher that had died on the operation table during childbirth. If people could still die in her past world with its advanced medical treatment, then could her safety be guaranteed in this ancient period where the level of medical knowledge fell far behind?


    ¡°Ai, it would be good if I didn¡¯t have to give birth.¡± Ruan Zhu placed her head on Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s shoulder in distress. But if she didn¡¯t give birth to children, what on earth would men want her for? Women were rare in this era, making carrying on the ancestral line even more precious.


    ¡°Do not worry, many women have also gone through this. In a few days, I will head to the capital and invite the most talented midwife in Tian Chu over. I remember that this individual is very experienced in delivering children. She is over sixty years old and has already delivered over a thousand children with very few mishaps.¡±


    ¡°There should be no need, ah. Papa has spent an enormous amount finding several good midwives and they¡¯re all of the best caliber. Stay in the residence where there¡¯s good food and good drinks, hmm?¡±


    The winters in Yu Zhou were not that cold but has still reached below zero. Exiting Furong Garden, they slowly walked as they followed the small path. The sky was overcast and the air was slightly moist and cold. As they continued walking, snowflakes unexpectedly started falling.


    Worried she would slip, Lu Piao Xiang put the weight of her body against him so that she was fundamentally being lugged by him to walk.


    ¡°You¡¯re like this yet you tell me to go out for a walk. I¡¯m basically being carried by you!¡±


    ¡°You can walk by yourself when we¡¯ve arrived at the garden. The current path is too narrow so it¡¯s not that safe. Just let me support you!¡±


    Ruan Zhu pointed at a plum blossom tree next to the moon gate, a hint of joy/happiness in her eyes: ¡°Some plum blossoms in the corner of the wall grow, that bloom alone in the approaching cold. From afar, it¡¯s known they are not snow, for there is a secret fragrance to behold.[b] What a wonderful artistic scene! How about later you play the super famous ¡®Plum Blossoms Blooming Thrice¡¯ for me to hear?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang looked at her in astonishment: ¡°You really amaze me. Did you think of that poem just from seeing plum blossoms or did it already exist?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was red and she mumbled: ¡°Not telling you.¡±


    The male lead of New Song had transmigrated to the Song dynasty and plagiarized so many essays.[c] She was a small female and was not humiliated, okay~ The Heavens have let her transmigrate and it was obvious they had gave her all of these benefits for her to use. If she was to pretend to be a saint, then that would just be too idiotic!


    Therefore, she did not plagiarize, she was precisely the poet! Ruan Zhu boasted shamelessly to herself.


    It was midwinter and apart from the plum blossoms and sparse bamboo, there truly was nothing else to admire. Arriving at the pavilion, Nuan Chun spread a soft cushion on the stone bench for the two people to sit on while Nuan Qing opened Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s guqin case and placed the guqin inside in front of him.


    The guqin was three chi three inches long with alternating red and black paint along its face. Plum-blossom cracks and snake-skin cracks interweaved on its surface while the reverse side had cow-hair cracks.[d]


    Even though Ruan Zhu was not any good at the violin, she nevertheless was a music lover and with nothing better to do, loved to search for information on this subject. She knew that this guqin was one of China¡¯s ten famous guqin; its name was ¡®Du You¡¯ and it was a collector¡¯s piece in Hunan province¡¯s museum.


    Lu Piao Xiang moved the guqin a little closer before placing his hands on top of the instrument and starting to play in a very natural manner. An ancient version of ¡°Plum Blossoms Blooming Thrice¡± flew out from under his ten fingers. The cheerful melody and the gently falling snowflakes outside of the pavilion caused the most beautiful atmosphere to take shape. But it was only that the tune had somewhat of an melancholy overcast and Ruan Zhu became despondent listening to it. She slightly frowned and her expression was a little strange.


    The song concluded and Lu Piao Xiang asked: ¡°What is it; was my playing not good?¡±


    Ruan Zhu shook her head: ¡°This ¡®Plum Blossoms Blooming Thrice¡¯ is different from the one I previously heard.¡±


    The song had been handed down for over a thousand years and had been produced and improved on by countless musicians, so there was nothing strange about the ancient and modern styles being different. After thinking about this, she became relieved. But Lu Piao Xiang could not understand. Music was like his soul and if things were not cleared, his heart would feel as uncomfortable as if a cat had snatched it.


    ¡°What was the one you previously listened to like?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to play the guqin so how should I tell you, hmm?¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was bitter. It was obvious that playing the guqin for him to hear was an absurd idea and having him read from sheet music was even more ridiculous. He had studied the ancient music notation while she knew the staffs, and the two methods were not interchangeable.[e] ¡°That, I¡¯ll sing it for you. As for how to play it, you can figure that out, right?¡±


    ¡°Plum Blossoms Blooming Thrice¡± was also called ¡°Plum Blossoms Falling.¡± In the beginning, it was a song for a flute that was later converted into a guqin melody. From the Southern Dynasties to the Tang dynasty, the majority of the renditions expressed the worried mental state of separation. Later, the Ming and Qing dynasties added the arrogance of the cold and frosted plum blossoms and expressed their lofty and unyielding integrity and temperament.


    But Ruan Zhu did not know these things and had Nuan Chun bring out ink. Using a brush, she drew out the five staffs she was used to. She considered for a moment, why not sing the lyrics of Chiung Yao¡¯s ¡¶Plum Blossoms Falling¡·in the style of a guqin?[f] While thinking of this in her head, she also filled out the lyrics.


    When she had finished writing, one sichen had almost passed. But both people were invested in this and neither of them felt the passage of time.


    ¡°Could what you are writing be a music score? A circle on the left, a circle on the right, why am I not familiar with them?¡± Lu Piao Xiang looked at the sheets in front of her and was unable to make heads or tails of it.


    ¡°You just have to listen to me sing.¡± Ruan Zhu cleared her throat and sang out by following the song¡¯s melody:


    The infatuated are in the mortal world


    When infatuated, do not laugh too foolishly or wildly


    Where it not for the cold, clear bones


    How could the plum blossom fragrance assail the nose?


    I ask the mortal world¨Cwhat is love?


    That only teaches how to mutually live or die


    See how many stories are in the mortal world


    The most overwhelmed thrice blooming plum blossoms¡­¡­


    Her voice was clear and spirited, like a kingfisher striking through water, like the cry of the black-naped oriole. Lu Piao Xiang was pleasantly attracted and listened with rapt attention. But after listening for a while, he felt there was something amiss and unconsciously wrinkled his brows.


    Only then did Ruan Zhu became aware that she had sung the wrong song. She hurriedly stopped and awkwardly said: ¡°I accidentally strung it with some other song. That time didn¡¯t count; restart.¡±


    She was singing and singing and unexpectedly went from the guqin tune to the the ending theme of the TV series ¡¶Plum Blossoms Falling¡·. She had previously been rather captivated by that universally appreciated song.


    ¡°No need to restart. Continue singing, I feel it is rather good.¡± Lu Piao Xiang was very much interested. This was the first time he had heard this kind of melody. It was so light and supple, like one of those clouds drifting in the sky. Listening to it, his heart was a little sentimental, but more than that, he was moved.


    Receiving encouragement, Ruan Zhu continued to sing:


    At the first blooming of the plum blossoms¨Cthe body is filled with pain


    At the second blooming of the plum blossoms¨Cthe mind turns with restless thoughts


    At the third blooming of the plum blossoms¨Cthe heart is filled with restlessness


    The mist covers the abyss of of the future, so vast and obscure


    The infatuated are in the mortal world


    When infatuated, do not laugh too foolishly or wildly


    Where it not for the cold, clear bones


    How could the plum blossom fragrance assail the nose?


    I ask the mortal world¨Cwhat is love?


    That only teaches how to mutually live or die¡­¡­


    Ruan Zhu had finished singing but Lu Piao Xiang was pensive and silently mouthed: ¡°I ask the mortal world¨Cwhat is love?; That only teaches how to mutually live or die?¡± He lifted his head and looked at her: ¡°These two phrases are written exceptionally well and are very moving. Wife, Piao Xiang being able to meet you, this life was not in vain.¡±


    ¡°I am also very happy to have met you.¡± It was true. She and him could chat about music and converse about subjects that they were both fond of. It was a spiritual sort of happiness.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin is back!¡± Ruan Yu ran over from the moon gate, shouting as she did so: ¡°Eldest Sister, Eldest Cousin is back! He¡¯s currently chatting in Papa¡¯s Jin Se Hall, you should hurry and go!¡±


    Ruan Zhu abruptly stood up. Sitting for so long, her legs had become all numb and her steps were somewhat shaky.


    Lu Piao Xiang came over to support her and found a trace of confusion in her eyes. Her cheeks were also flushed, seemingly from shock and joy, and she also appeared giddy.


    ¡°Let me carry you there!¡±


    ¡°No, I can walk.¡± It went without saying that she had received Lu Piao Xiang and let down Yun Shi Yi. How could she endure it if her husband were to see the other carrying her?


    ¡°Okay then, I will support you.¡± He understood her thoughts and helped her as they exited the pavilion: ¡°Slow down, there are steps on the bottom. It will be a little slippery as snow had just fallen. Be careful not to fall.¡±


    With his support, she left the garden, stepped past the moon gate, went along the small path, bypassed a wall, walked around a few more courtyards, passed through a cloister, arrived at Jin Se Hall, strode past the reception pavilion, and just so happened to see the man she had been thinking of all day and missing all night.


    She foolishly looked at him; her nose feeling a little sore. Unable to bear it, tears dripped down one by one.


    ¡°Lord Husband!¡± Her voice shook and she finally called out his name.


    ¡°Wife, this husband really missed you.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi quickly walked over and enveloped her, using the entirety of the strength of his thoughts and yearning to hug her. The nearly half a year¡¯s worth of panic, worry, and longing, were all replaced in a split second by the joy in seeing each other again. His arms slightly tightened, causing a painful cry to come from her.


    ¡°Gentler, it¡¯s a little hard to bear. The child¡­¡­¡±


    He hurriedly let go and finally saw that the swell of her belly was already very large. Lifting her with both arms, he carried her horizontally and walked in the direction of Furong Garden.


    ¡°Wait¡­¡­let Nuan Chun lead the way. Do you know where I¡¯m staying?¡±


    ¡°Wife, don¡¯t forget Ruan residence is my uncle¡¯s home. Before I wed you, I came here several times. Did you actually forget?¡±


    It was true. They were cousins with different surnames and had a consanguineous marriage. Only, he didn¡¯t know that she was not the previous Ruan Zhu. She momentarily felt frustrated and wrapped her arms around his neck, refusing to let go. Very quickly, she became enticed by his warm body and buried her head inside his spacious chest, exposing a shallow smile.


    Lu Piao Xiang distantly looked at the two people leaving, his heart feeling as if it had been blocked.


    Ruan Zi Xu walked over: ¡°What is it; not happy?¡±


    ¡°As long as she is happy.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang smiled and bowed in respect towards Ruan Zi Xu before turning around and leaving. He exited the Ruan residence through a side door and in an especially secluded alley, sent up a blue smoke flare used for communication towards the sky.


    After a while, four men clothed in black also entered the alley. Stopping before him, they bowed in greeting: ¡°Young Master, we have accomplished the assignment Young Master has instructed and has just safely brought Head Yun back.


    Lu Piao Xiang made a sound of approval: ¡°Did it go smoothly?¡±


    ¡°There was a bit of trouble when entering Tu Bo and a few brothers received some small wounds when grappling with the enemy. Luckily, we were able to bring them all back.¡±


    ¡°You can all withdraw!¡± Lu Piao Xiang gestured towards them: ¡°Peng Cheng, do not reveal my whereabouts.¡±


    ¡°Be at ease Young Master, Young Master has treated us brothers with favor. We will not reveal it.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang waved his hand and the four men in black left the alley.


    Yun Shi Yi placed his wife on top of the bed and looked at her face as if he could never see it enough. Lowering his head, he gave her kiss after kiss, his hand lightly sliding across her abdomen. He sighed: ¡°Turns out I can still see our child enter the world.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, I missed you so.¡± Tears slid down Ruan Zhu¡¯s face again and she became choked with sobs: ¡°You didn¡¯t send the slightest information back. I kept waiting in Mao Er Town and only left after receiving your letter from the relay station. But why didn¡¯t you come back?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this coming back?¡± He smiled and wiped her tears: ¡°When I sent you the letter, I had just settled that batch of wood at a low price but on the road back, I heard news saying the Red Eyebrow army had occupied Mao Er Town. Therefore, I changed the route again and headed west into the country of Tu Bo but how could it be that easy with being separated from my country¡­¡­¡±


    He had met some local tribal men upon entering the Tanggula mountain range[g] that not only wanted money, they also wanted them to become their slaves. Fortunately, they had met several chivalric rescuers and were able to escape. He did not want her to worry about this so kept silent.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, I am very happy. Fortunately, you came back in time to see the birth of our child.¡±


    [a] Ì«Ñôɹƨ¹ÉÁË, translated literally above as it really fits what YSW would say. Slang for it¡¯s already late; the sun is high up in the sky; etc.


    [b] The poem is ÷»¨ (Plum Blossom) by Íõ°²Ê¯ Wang An Shi (1021-1086).


    [c] ÐÂËÎ (New Song) is about a man who transmigrated to the Northern Song dynasty and used his modern knowledge to reform all aspects of it.


    [d] A guqin is made with wood that is then lacquered with paint. Over time, the wood shrinks because it loses water but the lacquer remains, which is why cracks (¶ÏÎÆ duan wen) are created naturally (they can also be made artificially). Duan wen are prized because they can tell how old a guqin is and also because the sound flows better. There are multiple types of cracks. (Examples of plum-blossom duan wen; snake-skin duan wen; cow-hair duan wen.)


    [e] The earliest music notation was composed of written words that described how a melody was played. This then evolved in the Tang dynasty into a shorter notation that grouped fingerings and string orders together but mostly left out rhythm. The current musical style is with staffs (five horizontal lines using either treble or bass clefs).


    [f] The last character in ÷»¨Âä (Plum Blossoms Falling) is usually pronounced lu¨° but can also be pronounced l¨¤o, as in this case. Chiung Yao is a famous Chinese writer whose novels have been adapted to over 100 films and TV dramas. One of her novels is ÷»¨ÀÓ (Plum Blossoms Branding) which has the same pronunciation as Plum Blossoms Falling. Author wrote that Chiung had written PBF so I kept it, but just know that it¡¯s incorrect in reality.


    [g] ÌƹÅÀ­É½ Tanggula (also called Dangla) mountain range is located in the Qinhai-Tibet plateau and is west of modern-day Lan Zhou.

 Chapter 52

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    It was like Yun Shi Yi hadn¡¯t heard his wife¡¯s words at all as his eyes were fixed on her belly. One of his arms was wrapped around her upper body, holding her close, while the other hand was gently stroking the large swell of her abdomen. Surprise suddenly flit across his face: ¡°The child is moving and kicking my hand.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes became wet again but were full of happiness: ¡°Our child started moving from six months. Apart from turning over, they¡¯ll also use their small hands and small feet to hit and kick. Sometimes I¡¯ll even think inside me is a ball that¡¯s jumping all around, just like they were rolling inside.¡±


    Unfortunately, there was no one she could share these moments with. Yun Shi Wei was impossible; Lu Piao Xiang was improper. Only the father of the child would be able to understand the feeling of the blood connection.


    ¡°I have missed so many beautiful moments.¡± There was some regret on Yun Shi Yi¡¯s face: ¡°I was truly scatterbrained to actually leave while you were pregnant. I was not by your side; the journey to flee from the southern border must have been very exhausting, right?¡±


    ¡°It was okay.¡± She tearfully smiled. During that time, she had always worried about his safety. Fortunately, fortunately, he had returned and was at her side. She cuddled his warm body and felt that this man was precisely her sky.


    Her man had been on the road for a long while and had become thinner but appeared even healthier than before, with suntanned skin and an extra layer of calluses on his palms that were very rough to the touch. Her tender hand traced them and followed the prominent tendons on the back of his hand up towards his arm, shoulder, chest. Resenting the layer of clothing for being in the way, she pried them apart and rubbed her pair of small hands against his chest.


    This broad chest had appeared innumerable times in her dreams and she felt it was oh so familiar.


    Yun Shi Yi took off his upper garment and allowed her to touch him. He could feel the temperature she transmitted and his entire heart softened.


    The Heavens knew how anxious he had been when he found out about the rebellion in the southern border while he was in Liu Zhou. He had entrusted the fast horses of the relay station at that time to deliver a letter for her to quickly leave the area.


    Then just when he had rushed the several large carriages full of gold-threaded Phoebe zhennan to the southern border by the use of the stars, it was only to discover that the rebels were much crueler than he had imagined. All of the belongings of the businessmen and the wealthy had been stolen and the clothes on their backs had also been completely peeled off. What¡¯s more, they were arrested and paraded on the streets, and even cruel punishments were used to interrogate them on the location of the rest of their property and assets.


    His attendant, Yun Shan, had volunteered to disguise himself as a penniless commoner to investigate the situation inside Mao Er Town. The information he brought back was that there were several merchants that had trusted their luck and hid their money in the mountains, hoping to recover them when it was peaceful again. But the local commoners had recognized them and reported them to the Red Eyebrows army. After the merchants had been captured, they were beaten into unrecognizable shapes.


    Yun Shi Yi knew that going through Mao Er Town towards Tian Chu wouldn¡¯t get him anywhere. He sold off the batch of gold-threaded Phoebe zhennan at the lower price possible before heading west with his entourage into the country of Tu Bo. How arduous the journey was, well, there was no need to dwell on it. But when they entered the Tanggula mountain range, the local tribal men saw that they were merchants from the country of Tian Chu and became greedy.


    As a result of the scarcity of craftsmen in Tu Bo, their living environment was very poor while the commoners of Tian Chu more or less knew the techniques of planting and manufacturing. Thus, human traffickers from all over brought over slaves that they sold here at considerable prices.


    To ensure their safety, Yun Shi Yi gave them money, but the tribal men also wanted to capture them as slaves. Both parties made their move and just in the moment of crisis, a group of men jumped in to save them at the risk of their own lives. Back on the road, they stayed together as a group and entered Han Zhong from the northwest of Tu Bu and arrived in Yu Zhou.


    He did not know at all that his wife was in Yu Zhou. However, he had been brought by his group of rescuers here and thought he might as well plan to see his maternal uncle and didn¡¯t expect for her to also be here.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, I¡¯ve been afraid since the beginning that you wouldn¡¯t be able to return. At the time we fled to Rong Chen, I truly couldn¡¯t walk anymore and just planned to come to Yu Zhou. Then, I had also thought you might take a detour but still let Nuan Chun paste some notices for you at the city gate.¡±


    ¡°Wife, you¡¯ve worked hard. Thank you for the trouble.¡± Thinking about how she was pregnant with his child and at the time when her body was weakest, yet was still fleeing and became all travel-worn, his heart twisted again.


    ¡°How did I work hard? Ai, as long as you are alive then it¡¯s good.¡±


    ¡°I am alive, you are alive, there is also our child, my wife being pregnant counts as working hard, right!¡± He placed his hand again on her belly and distinctly felt there existed a life inside there; his and her¡¯s collaborative offspring.


    At this moment, raw emotion billowed out from his heart. Holding her and their child, all of that suffering during these past six months did not matter anymore.


    During the period when they were apart, how many nights did he wish he could tightly hug her like this? Now, his wish could finally be fulfilled.


    Yun Shi Yi laid down by her side and pulled the quilts over both of them. Drawing her close, he contently entered the land of dreams.


    The two people finally woke when it was close to evening. Their eyes overflowing with happiness, neither of them spoke as they just mutually gazed at one another like so.


    From the door came some knocks and Yun Shi Yi dressed and went to open the door.


    The one that entered was Ruan Yu. Her eyes were bright and she appeared very excited. Towards Yun Shi Yi, she shouted Eldest Cousin in greeting and then threw her gaze atop the bed: ¡°Eldest Sister, Papa said later we¡¯re going to give Eldest Cousin a welcoming banquet and if you don¡¯t fell well, you don¡¯t have to go.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I can go.¡± How could she be willing to part from him?


    Yun Shi Yi helped her sit up: ¡°I¡¯ll call Nuan Chun to bring some water over so you can wash your face, freshen up, and dress up prettily. Look at this face that has become like a little kitten¡¯s after crying. If you went out like this and was seen by Uncle, he would think how had I mistreated his daughter?¡±


    Ruan Zhu pouted: ¡°My current figure is very ugly, no matter how I dress up it won¡¯t matter much. Just don¡¯t bother with these honeyed words.¡±


    ¡°Eh? Why do I think you are very beautiful? I¡¯m finished. Is it that there¡¯s something wrong with my eyes?¡±


    ¡°Lord Husband, your words are really pleasant to hear. In the future, you have to say every day ¡®Zhu Zhu is the most beautiful.¡¯ Say it one hundred times and I¡¯ll be happy when hearing it and will be able to give birth to a boy.¡±


    ¡°Is that true?¡± Yun Shi Yi looked miserable: ¡°Then I better not say it. Giving birth to a son is meaningless. I much prefer a daughter, a daughter that is as cute as Zhu Zhu.¡±


    ¡°Then¡­¡­then what about if it is a boy?¡± Ruan Zhu became anxious.


    ¡°Heavens!¡± By the side, Ruan Yu covered her ears: ¡°It turns out there was still such a corny couple in the world; I¡¯m getting goosebumps. Oh my word, I need to leave or else I won¡¯t be able to avoid puking.¡±


    ¡°Aiya, Yu¡¯er, don¡¯t leave. In a bit we¡¯ll all go to Jin Se Hall together.¡± Ruan Zhu was embarrassed at being mocked and hurriedly said something to make her stay.


    ¡°Forget it. You guys are newlyweds that have been separated for a long while. I won¡¯t trouble you any longer, you guys can continue!¡±


    Ruan Yu turned around and left.


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing learned their Master had woken and came in to attend to her. Nuan Chun had brought water so she could wash her face and Nuan Qing went to light up the brazier that had long extinguished.


    All fixed up, Yun Shi Yi used a fox fur coat to safely wrap up Ruan Zhu before horizontally carrying her to Jin Se Hall.


    Because it was close to the end of the year, the Ruan residence had been tidied beyond recognition and Jin Se Hall had clear windows and clean tables[a]. A large chandelier with one hundred candles hung from the center beam of the hall.


    The chandelier was about one meter wide with three layers of sparkling tassels which were dazzling under the illumination of the candlelight. It had been bought by Ruan Zi Xu for ten thousand taels of silver from some Persian merchants and was only used to celebrate the new year. But because Yun Shi Yi had returned and also because it was close to the end of the year, the chandelier had been taken out ahead of time.


    All the members of the Ruan clan were present with the principal husband at the main seat and the concubine-born children and secondary husbands sitting below. Ruan Yu sat to the right of the Ruan couple while Yun Shi Yi and Ruan Zhu sat on their left, followed by Lu Piao Xiang and Yun Shi Wei. The latter two upon seeing Yun Shi Yi and Ruan Zhu both stood up in accordance to the etiquette of a secondary husband.


    Yun Shi Yi placed his wife in her seat. The floor of the lounge was made of stones so the interior was very warm.[b] He took off her coat and handed it to Nuan Chun, who was standing behind them in attendance.


    Ruan Zhu surveyed the room and accidentally met the gaze of concubine-born Ruan Ju. The latter was still thinking of their confrontation from last time and turned away after snorting.


    The dishes were served and they were all famous and precious delicacies such as bird¡¯s nest, shark fin, and so on. Placed in front of Ruan Zhu was a plate of chicken cheek meat and a bowl of fish brains with tofu. The value of merely these two dishes cost quite a bit of silver. Dozens of chickens were required to make one dish of chicken cheek meat, and it was the same with fish where only after dozens of fish was it sufficient to make a bowl of fish brain.


    Bird¡¯s nest porridge with Chinese wolfberries and ginkgo nuts


    Shark fin soup


    Of course, with regards to the primary husband, each and every dish was extremely famous and valuable. The secondary husbands and their children could not receive such good luck.


    Ruan Zhu listened to Yun Shi Yi as he placed dishes in her bowl while also explaining what each of them were. Hearing him speak, her nose became sore. During the welcome feast held the day she came back to Ruan residence, there had been no one like him who had attentively explained each dish and she basically didn¡¯t know what she had ate.


    This was too wasteful, right?! She thought: If in the future I¡¯m as rich as the Ruan clan, I definitely won¡¯t eat chicken cheek meat or fish brains with tofu and will eat less of swallow¡¯s nest and shark fin.


    Yun Shi Wei didn¡¯t know what his little wife was thinking of, and one by one, snatched up all the foods he found delicious.


    On the other side, Ruan Ju heard Yun Shi Yi introduce all these famous dishes to his wife and felt so infuriated she almost fainted. In front of her was nothing but braised fish, chicken stewed with mushrooms, fried tofu, pork stir-fry¡­¡­a few home-cooked dishes. Although previous family feasts were also like this, but currently there was some one that would even speak out the price in detail.


    Braised fish


    Chicken stewed with mushrooms


    Fried tofu


    Pork stir fry


    The Ruan clan paid particular attention to silence during meals and the concubine-born children did not dare to even breathe loudly. All of their food and necessities in their courtyards were all bought with the hard-earned money earned by their respective fathers by working outside. If their old man had the ability, it wasn¡¯t bad. If he didn¡¯t have the ability, even eating vegetables and tofu would not be easy. To be able to eat such a lavish meal with generous amounts of meat and fish that they didn¡¯t have to spend money for was already very extravagant.


    Ruan Zi Xu provided them housing but did not provide them with living expenses.


    But Ruan Ju was not the same as Madam Ruan heavily doted on her and always gave her own share away. Towards this, Ruan Zi Xu turned a blind eye as he never squabbled with his wife over small matters. Not only that, in order to appear magnanimous, sometimes he would also give material assistance to this bastard daughter.


    ¡°This is the blood bird¡¯s nest soup, which is the best kind among all the bird¡¯s nests. A female eating this can nourish their blood, yin, and skin. Blood nests are formed when swiftlets build their nests inside caves. Our Tian Chu does not have them and the place of production is relatively far, in the country of Siam that is south of Nan Ling. That is why it is also the most valuable and famous, with ten grams requiring two taels of silver.¡±


    Siam was exactly Thailand. Ruan Zhu knew this and had also heard a bit about blood nests.


    But how big was ten grams? A spoonful or a small mouthful? Ruan Zhu felt faint. Holy shit! This little bit was exactly the same as two months of life expenses for an average person! Granted, the current famine and rebellion were still ongoing, causing prices to inflate, but it should still be enough to cover a month¡¯s expenses, right!?


    ¡°You should eat it instead!¡± Ruan Zhu returned the half bowl of bird¡¯s nest porridge Yun Shi Yi had placed in front of her. Half a bowl¨Cif it was on the lower end, it would still be around five or six taels of silver, right? If she were to eat that, she would feel even more distressed so she might as well not even eat it.


    ¡°Wife, what is it?¡± Yun Shi Yi was surprised but his expression quickly turned grave: ¡°Is your belly uncomfortable?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Ruan Zhu gloomily placed the bowl of bird¡¯s nest porridge before her again.


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s mind was meticulous and guessed her thoughts. He faintly smiled. It was hard to connect her with the Ruan clan¡¯s eldest Miss as she seemed to have never eaten bird¡¯s nest before. Towards her, he volunteered: ¡°Even though bird¡¯s nest is expensive and valuable, it is not like they cannot be bought. As long as you like it, I will buy them for you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s face became faintly pale. Oh crap, oh no. She forgot to explain the situation with Lu Piao Xiang to Yun Shi Yi and how she made the latter wear a green hat.


    When Yun Shi Yi returned, he had heard his Maternal Uncle mention Lu Piao Xiang. Right when he was about to reply, who would have expected Ruan Ju from the other side would slam her chopsticks down¨Cpa!


    ¡°Mother, I also want to eat bird¡¯s nest, shark fin, fish brains with tofu, and chicken cheek meat.¡± Ruan Ju scowled and pointed at Ruan Zhu: ¡°What right does she have to eat so well? I am also your daughter, why can¡¯t I eat that?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s face sank: ¡°Impudent! Who are you speaking towards?¡±


    There was absolute silence in the hall. Ruan Ju¡¯s birth father was so scared his face had become white and he gave his daughter a meaningful glance. Although he and his wife had a very good relationship, he lived in the Ruan home and was also of low birth and naturally was frightened of Ruan Zi Xu.


    Madam Ruan handed the bowl of bird¡¯s nest in front of her to the male servant behind her: ¡°Mei Yue, go give this to third Miss. Ai, isn¡¯t it just a little bit of food? This child, in a little while Mother will buy several taels of bird¡¯s nest and have the kitchen make them for you.¡±


    Madam Ruan had Mei Yue carry the bird¡¯s nest over, but saw her husband coldly staring at her and smiled in embarrassment: ¡°Aren¡¯t I just thinking the child is pitiful? How much money could possibly be spent in giving her a little to eat? And doesn¡¯t she also call you Father?¡±


    ¡°Mother, your words do not seem to be correct.¡± Second Miss Ruan Yu stated in dead earnest: ¡°Just because of a single word of hers, her father lives in our home untouched by wind and rain. Look at that fur coat she¡¯s wearing; that kind of hair ornament on her head is also not from our Ruan family. I call Second concubine-Father ¡®concubine-Father¡¯ but have never seen them send me any sort of good thing. A person shouldn¡¯t conduct themselves like that, oh~¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that they had never sent anything as they nevertheless had sent over toys and pastries that had been bought for a few coins on the street.


    Ruan Ju was so angry her face changed color and she shouted: ¡°I¡¯m spending my Ma¡¯s money, not yours! What the hell status do you have to be so anxious and to care about my affairs?!¡±


    With these words spoken, even the servants cynically looked at her. Madam Ruan¡¯s money, wasn¡¯t it all given by Master Ruan?


    Ruan Yu did not intend to let her go and slowly articulated in a low voice: ¡°Originally, ah, I did not care about how much of our Ruan family¡¯s money you spent but you Wei family still do not understand your status or circumstances and stubbornly continue to provoke us. The matter about you all shifting the blame of the poison onto my Eldest Sister, I have not yet cleared it with you all. Unexpectedly, not only do you not know shame, you over and over again invite humiliation upon yourself. You simply don¡¯t know how good you have it.¡±


    ¡°Who did you say doesn¡¯t know how good they have it?!¡±


    It just so happened that Mei Yue had placed down that bowl of bird¡¯s nest porridge down. In the middle of her rage, Ruan Yu angrily extended her hand and pushed it away and the bird¡¯s nest porridge shattered on the ground. The ruined bird¡¯s nest was nothing, but that porcelain bowl was the famous celadon from Ru Zhou. In the future, there would be a sentence: It didn¡¯t matter how wealthy a family was as none of it could compare to a single piece of Ru ware.[c]


    Although the celadon of Tian Chu was not at the degree of fame or rarity as mentioned above, they were still absolutely not something an average family could use. Only when there were major banquets would the Ruan family take these out to use.


    Ruan Ju¡¯s biological father, Wei Rong, worriedly said: ¡°Ju¡¯er, what are you making a scene for? Quickly, kneel.¡± His daughter was too headstrong. Even if she wanted to make the other feel uneasy, she ought to secretly hinder them. Wasn¡¯t doing everything in the open just asking to bring misfortune on oneself?


    ¡°Pa, you don¡¯t have to worry about this. I just want to ask Mother if I am still her own daughter or not.¡±


    Ruan Ju¡¯s slip of the tongue made her call her concubine-Father, ¡®Father.¡¯ This was not permitted.


    Since time immemorial, the standard that had been set was concubine-born children must and could only call the principal husband ¡®Father.¡¯ Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s face had been swept aside and his complexion immediately became ashen. He coldly spoke thus: ¡°If you do not recognize me, this father, then please leave my Ruan home. I, Ruan Zi Xu, do not raise things that do not know how to be grateful.¡±


    ¡°Aiya, Lord Husband, don¡¯t be angry. She¡¯s just a small child who doesn¡¯t understand.¡± Madam Ruan hastily called out to him.


    ¡°Madam, just you wait and see.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu stood up, flicked his sleeves, and left.


    ¡°Mother, I think you should give Papa an explanation.¡± Ruan Yu stood up, performed the rites towards Ruan Zhu and followed in leaving the hall.


    The welcome banquet had ended on bad terms. Ruan Zhu looked at Yun Shi Yi and Lu Piao Xiang before finally stopping at Madam Ruan: ¡°Mother, I am not feeling well and will leave first towards Furong Garden. Do not be too upset. After I persuade Pa, perhaps it will be fine tomorrow.¡±


    Madam Ruan was currently fretting by herself and grasped onto her eldest daugther¡¯s hand: ¡°Mother¡¯s baby, Mother¡¯s darling, you must speak good words for this mother. Your father loves you dearly and will surely listen to you. Ai, you don¡¯t know how difficult it is to manage a large household.¡±


    Ruan Zhu wanted to say that managing a large household was not at all difficult. If you could only calmly carry a bowl of water and maintain a fair heart, how could Father care about that bit of silver?


    But Ruan Zhu knew saying these words would not be useful. Carried by Yun Shi Wei, she returned to Furong Garden.


    [a] ´°Ã÷¼¸¾», idiom meaning bright and clean


    [b] Raws actually said it was made of »ðÁú, which directly translates to ¡®fire dragon¡¯ and I don¡¯t know how that correlates. I substituted it with stones, which are good at holding heat and also more expensive than say brick or tile.


    [c] Ru ware is a very famous and rare pottery style in the Song dynasty and is one of the Five Great Kilns. (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 53

    Returning to Furong Garden, Yun Shi Yi helped remove his wife¡¯s coat and carried her to the bed to rest. After a moment, he saw Nuan Chun place the brazier he had just fanned to roaring levels under the bed and spoke to stop him: ¡°It is better to move it away a little further as one is likely to suffer from excessive internal heat at such a close distance. In any case, there is a fire dragon underground[a] and the room will not be too cold.¡±


    Nuan Chun responded in agreement and moved the brazier a little distance away: ¡°Eldest Master, Nuan Qing has already had people prepare bath water in the washroom. Would you like to head there now?¡±


    ¡°Understood; you may withdraw. If you see Shi Wei coming over, stop him. Do not let him come over and bother me.¡± He had just barely been reunited with his wife; how could he let his little brother come inside and ruin the mood?


    ¡°Yes, Eldest Master. This servant asks to be excused.¡± Nuan Chun performed the rites towards the two people and departed.


    Yun Shi Yi lifted his wife into the adjacent washroom. Entering the bathtub, they washed for a while before he moved her back into the bedroom.


    The two of them laid down on the bed and Yun Shi Yi thoughtfully looked at his wife: ¡°Still thinking about the unpleasantry from earlier?¡±


    He hadn¡¯t expected the concubine-born daughter of the Ruan clan to be this domineering. Even if those concubine-born children in Lan Zhou¡¯s Yun family manor were estranged from him and they occasionally got into angry disputes, they would still not have the courage to make such an unreasonable scene in front of everyone. His own mother was not to be trifled with and had never been captured by a concubine-daughter like his maternal aunt. It was obvious how important it was for the Mother of the household to manage things with impartiality.


    ¡°I was thinking, why did Papa accept this kind of secondary husband like concubine-Father Wei for Mother? With his ability, he could have surely given Ma an obedient one.¡± Such as other secondary husbands that had little desire to ingratiate themselves, knew how to judge the situation and knew what was best to do that was most advantageous for themselves. In the end, was this Wei Rong intelligent or stupid? What benefit did he have to gain from provoking the Head of the family?


    ¡°You don¡¯t even understand the matters of your own Ruan family?¡± Yun Shi Yi tapped the tip of her nose: ¡°That time when concubine-Father Wei entered the Ruan family, it truly used a bit of thinking. Based on his circumstances, he simply was not qualified at all to enter the Ruan family as a secondary concubine. His birth status is so low, it basically didn¡¯t mean anything and he also had an arrogant air that is similar to Maternal Uncle. But how could one with the lowest of statuses be able to hold onto that temperament? That concubine-Father Wei is also a Mister from a brothel and made others resent him. It¡¯s been said that he had a relationship with the Madam of the prefectural magistrate¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°A Mister from a brothel?¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought of Lu Piao Xiang, but the latter was born from a wealthy family in the capital and his parents were both people with a good head for business. He had been set up by his older brother into entering a brothel, had always remained clean-living and honest[b], and had always looked for an opportunity to escape. With Wei Rong, they were like heaven and earth, absolutely incomparable.


    But how did Wei Rong capture Madam Ruan¡¯s heart? It was obvious it wasn¡¯t just his appearance that was good for his methods were also not ordinary.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, or else how could he have become a secondary husband of the Ruan household? Wasn¡¯t it because he had trusted the method of the Madam of the prefectural magistrate? He originally wanted to enter her household, but the magistrate had accepted a line of brothers for his wife. Then in accordance with his wife¡¯s intention, he used the imperial court¡¯s law as an excuse to force Wei Rong into the Ruan family. On the same day they entered the family, the new concubine must be examined by the principal husband or another senior member to check whether they are untouched, but Wei Rong did not have his gecko cinnabar mark at all.¡±


    Again with the law of the imperial court! So that was the reason why Ruan Zi Xu was forced to accept Wei Rong as his wife¡¯s secondary husband even if he was unwilling: ¡°If Papa was an official, then he wouldn¡¯t have to accept others¡¯ blackmail. I heard that the Emperor had sent a decree bestowing an official position to Papa but he declined. What a pity.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi looked at his wife in amusement.


    Ruan Zhu became angry: ¡°What kind of expression is that?¡±


    ¡°You are truly naive. Regardless of how much power an official has, they will still be subject to different degrees of blackmail. The several secondary husbands of the wife of Prime Minister Li were all bestowed by the Emperor and the same can also be said of the other ministers. Not only could these men be used to monitor them, this was also the so-called ¡®grace.¡¯ Even the Emperor can not be so casual. In order to consolidate their own power, all the cabinet ministers always wish to send their sons to the Empress or the Princesses. Do you know why Tian Chu has a decree that the Empress must only accept brothers of her principal husband as concubines? It¡¯s precisely to guard against the ministers randomly sending their sons. But even like this, the imperial family is unable to block everything. These sons may not become secondary husbands ,but they could become attendants or bedwarmers, right?¡±


    Even if one was the ruler of a country, they still had to share their wife¡¯s love with other men. In Tian Chu¡¯s history, there was one emperor that wanted to jointly live out his life with only his Empress. Very quickly, his ministers all refused to follow the system and stopped accepting secondary husbands in quick succession, and some commoners also followed suit. Less than ten years later, the population suddenly fell sharply and the country saw many deaths with few births and even fewer children on the streets. Under these circumstances, the Emperor had no choice but to reinstate the previous system, accepting secondary husbands for his Empress and issuing a decree that court ministers and civilians had to have five husbands per wife, ten husbands per wife, the more husbands the better.


    ¡°The Emperor is that useless? To give the minsters free reign to send their sons into the imperial harem as they please?¡±


    ¡°No, the Emperor is very smart. The Emperor attaches the most importance to the Empress¡¯s phoenix body and all of the men in the imperial palace, excluding the five husbands, are castrated.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was silent for a long while and finally nodded her head. The long-standing palace eunuch culture could not be destroyed just because of the polyandry system. In any case, Dongfang Bu Bai was extremely cute, yes![c]


    Ruan Zhu yawned and nestled inside her husband¡¯s embrace and not a moment later, fell asleep. The lord of dreams unexpectedly let her meet Dongfang Bu Bai tonight. Both of them were in the bridal chamber and when she pulled down his pants, there actually was a **.


    She could even dream of anything. This was too weird!


    If Yun Shi Yi knew his wife had dreamt of another man while laying next to himself, he would have been incomparably dismayed. No matter how one said it, this was the first time he had comfortably slept over these past six months and his mind was extremely refreshed the next day.


    Ruan Zhu felt his ¡õ that was solidly pressing against her and thought about how he had lived an ascetic monk lifestyle for such a long time. Feeling distressed, she used both hands to slowly feel him.


    He cupped her full breasts and his eyes slightly closed as he lost himself in the sensation he hadn¡¯t felt in a long time.


    Suddenly, he kneeled in front of her, removing his little brother from her hands. He placed it in front of her chest and used his hands to squeeze her two plump and soft hills towards the middle, burying his member inside.


    He slowly twitched as that place gave him another sort of thrill.


    ¡°Wife, it feels so good here.¡±


    He panted; his forehead covered with tiny beads of sweat. This mysterious feeling was hard to bear and the speed of his thrusts became faster and faster. His arousal surged, and like a hot knife through butter, he completely sprayed out his hot liquid that had accumulated for half a year.


    He wiped himself clean and continued to kneel in front of her, caressing her two supple mounds, focusing on examining them. The areas that he had rubbed had become somewhat red. He buried his head between them and showered them with kisses: ¡°Luckily there is no bruising, otherwise I would have lost out enormously.¡±


    She lowered her head to look at his actions; her two slightly red cheeks glowing with blessed happiness.


    When they got out of bed, she thought of Lu Piao Xiang. Ever since Yun Shi Yi had returned, she hadn¡¯t had the chance to even speak a single word to him. Recalling his attentive care during this period of time, she felt a bit apologetic.


    ¡°Husband Lord, there is a matter I need to speak to you about¡­¡­¡± Her words were vague and her eyes were a little sad as she looked at him.


    Yun Shi Yi thought a moment: ¡°It¡¯s regarding Lu Piao Xiang, correct? No need to explain, I understand.¡± But understanding was one thing and accepting another husband always made him uncomfortable. Although this day would have come sooner or later, in the end, him bringing in concubines was different from her bringing them in herself.


    ¡°Lord Husband, I have let you down.¡± Seeing him so disagreeable, she became distressed and hugged his waist: ¡°Don¡¯t ignore me, I¡¯ve always remembered that you are the most important.¡±


    A warm feeling slid over his heart and he faintly smiled: ¡°Silly girl, still not getting up? It¡¯s already this time yet you¡¯re lazing around in bed. Let me inform you of the order your father gave me¨CI have to take you for a stroll in the garden every day; he said it¡¯s for an easier childbirth. You don¡¯t wish for me to be reprimanded by him, right?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s tears turned into laughter.


    After eating the morning meal, Yun Shi Yi supported her to the flower garden where the plum blossoms were blooming even more luxurious and splendid than yesterday. The light white color with faint pink tones and an amorous red¨Clooking at them, one¡¯s heart becomes full of joy.


    But when they had yet to approach the stands of plum blossom trees, the sounds of a delicate voice cursing someone carried over, immediately followed by the sounds of a whip hitting a person¨Cpa pa.


    ¡°Are you a corpse, ah? I told you to bring me plum blossom branches, what damned place did you go to for so long?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t hard to tell that the girl who was shouting and hitting was Ruan Ju. She had just caused a situation yesterday that made her self-conscious, so what in tarnation was she doing today?


    Ruan Zhu could be considered to be thoroughly impressed by this third sister.


    There was no need to care about this. She could express her love however she wanted to express it; there was no reason to invite bad luck.


    In any case, it had nothing to do with her. Ruan Ju did not dare to be too outrageous for the most part. She may not highly value her servants¡¯ lives, but if she were to beat them to death, Ruan Zi Xu would not tolerate having such a vicious daughter, let alone one that was not his.


    Yun Shi Yi assisted Ruan Zhu as they intended to leave, but she accidentally glanced towards the plum blossom trees as she turned around and couldn¡¯t help but to stand still in shock.


    A man with a tall figure and wearing inky black clothes stood beside a plum blossom tree. His eyes were cold and cheerless and his lips were pressed tightly closed. Towards Ruan Ju¡¯s continuous strikes against his back, not even a wrinkle in his eyebrows could be found.


    That man was Xuanyuan Min Zhi. He was still bound by iron chains on his hands and feet like an unattainable cruel and untamed boss in a prison. And despite meeting with misfortune, he still possessed a threatening and cold air.


    Wasn¡¯t he at Aunt Sun¡¯s house? How did he come to Ruan residence and was even being abused by Ruan Ju?


    Yun Shi Yi had also seen them and was extremely astonished. He naturally recognized Xuanyuan Min Zhi; he had visited the country of Nan Ling several times so how could he not know the other? During the time when the majestic prince of Nan Ling had caused trouble in Mao Er Town, he had also been there as a witness.


    When did Xuanyuan Min Zhi become Ruan Ju¡¯s servant? Was he appointed to her? He was a prince and someone given up for adoption to the Duke of Nan Ling. Although Yun Shi Yi did not know how the other had fallen to such dire straits, he was still not someone the Ruan clan could provoke.


    ¡°We should leave!¡±


    Yun Shi Yi supported Ruan Zhu as they faced the way they had come. If they went over right now and stopped her, offending Ruan Ju in the process, it would be another clash between the two of them. Wouldn¡¯t it be better to return and think of a plan?


    Behind them, the whipping still continued, accompanied with Ruan Ju¡¯s shouted curses. The scene was particularly staggering.


    Ruan Zhu became angry. It must have been Aunt Sun who opened her eyes wide at the sight of profit[d] and sold Xuanyuan Min Zhi. Was there a need for more words? What right did Aunt Sun have? Though she had given him away, it did not mean the other had the right to sell him.


    Yun Shi Yi helped his wife through the moon gate and back into Furong Garden as they followed the small path.


    Sitting in the warm-as-spring room, the two people were speechless. A very long time later, Ruan Zhu finally spoke.


    ¡°Lord Husband. Say, Xuanyuan Min Zhi being tormented by Ruan Ju like that, wouldn¡¯t it bring calamity to the Ruan clan?¡±


    ¡°I need to find Uncle and discuss this with him. This matter is very troublesome. If it is not solved properly, we may be accused of looking down on the imperial family.¡± The atmosphere around Yun Shi Yi was very heavy.


    Ruan Zhu was rather regretful. She had thought just sending out that hot potato would be the end but who would have thought that Ruan Ju would buy him? She also blamed herself for being so childish. If she had endured it at that time and given Xuanyuan Min Zhi a bit of assistance within her abilities, this current situation would not exist.


    ¡°I will go look for Uncle to discuss this. Wife, if you¡¯re tired then just sleep for a bit. If you feel agitated, let¡­¡­let Lu Piao Xiang come over and accompany you.¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡­no need, I am fine on my own. You should quickly go!¡±


    Ruan Zhu was grateful of her husband¡¯s consideration. Looking at his figure walking away, her nose became a bit sour.


    One person alone in a room was very boring. But not long after, she heard the sound of the door opening. She thought it was Lu Piao Xiang, but didn¡¯t expect to see Yun Shi Wei, who brought a gust of cold air with him when he entered. His eyes brightened upon seeing Ruan Zhu and he chuckled as he threw himself over.


    ¡°Spouse, Eldest Brother had Nuan Chun go find Lu Piao Xiang to come over and accompany you. Fortunately, Nuan Chun was intercepted by me halfway. What is good about that kid, Lu Piao Xiang? Other than being able to play the guqin to help others sleep, there is no other good thing about him. You should let me accompany you instead, okay!¡±


    ¡°Accompanying me is fine.¡± Ruan Zhu could see that his wolf paws wanted to carelessly grope her and pushed him away, sharply saying: ¡°Don¡¯t move your hands and feet. Warm yourself up first and then we¡¯ll see. Don¡¯t you know you¡¯re cold and icy all over? If you hurt my child, I¡¯ll take your life.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei rapidly crouched next to the brazier to warm himself up and cheerfully said: ¡°Spouse, after you¡¯ve given birth to Eldest Brother¡¯s child, give birth to mine next. You must remember to make them all take contraceptives.¡±


    Ruan Zhu snorted: ¡°Keep dreaming, I still want to live a relaxed life for a few years. Later, you also have to eat contraceptives.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei pouted: ¡°Spouse, you can¡¯t be biased.¡±


    ¡°I just am biased, what of it?¡± Ruan Zhu walked to the window and looked outside. Her mind was a little confused. She thought of her husband and then her head was filled with Xuanyuan Min Zhi. This living ancestor really made one have a headache.


    ¡°Spouse, are you in a bad mood?¡± Yun Shi Wei at least was not entirely stupid and could see Ruan Zhu was absent-minded: ¡°How about I take you out for a stroll? Uncle said walking often would be good for when you give birth.¡±


    Okay then, no more thinking.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go to the garden. Let¡¯s go to the back door of the Ruan residence for a look. I remember there is a wonton stall on the street outside the door that is very lively.¡± She recalled how she had come across Ruan Ju earlier and thought it was better to not go to the garden.


    Yun Shi Wei supported Ruan Zhu to the back door of the Ruan residence. Just as they were about to leave, a black shadow suddenly flew out from the inside the residence and almost collided with Ruan Zhu. Angry, Yun Shi Wei raised a leg and kicked him to the ground.


    ¡°Don¡¯t kick!¡± Ruan Zhu wanted to stop him but was too late.


    That man was crumpled on the ground and spit out a large mouthful of blood. It was Xuanyuan Min Zhi. After he had finished coughing up blood, he wiped his lips and struggled twice to crawl back up, glaring at them with a pair of icy eyes.


    Ruan Zhu immediately understood. This prince could no longer bear Ruan Ju¡¯s tyrannical whip and had intended to escape.


    From behind came Ruan Ju¡¯s shouted curses and Ruan Zhu saw that she had even brought along a few of the family¡¯s servants.


    ¡°I let you run away, you dog slave! Children, go forward and beat him up for me! Beat this useless Blockhead to death! I gave him face but he doesn¡¯t want it. Is being my bedwarmer so hard where touching you a few times is worthy of death?!¡±


    These servants had received instruction and like a hornet¡¯s nest, moved toward Xuanyuan Min Zhi, pushing him to the ground, relentless in their punches and kicks.


    ¡°Stop hitting him. All of you stay your hands under my orders.¡± Ruan Zhu stepped forward to put a stop to their actions.


    ¡°Eldest Sister, you have gone too far! I¡¯m hitting a slave but you also have to control this? Are you so idle that you are panicking?¡± Ruan Ju saw that her own matters had been disturbed and her face twisted with anger. She commanded those few servants: ¡°All of you, don¡¯t listen to her. Go ahead and beat this useless Blockhead to the gates of hell!¡±


    All the servants glanced at each other and none of them moved. They all ate the Ruan clan¡¯s food and there was no need for them to offend their principal master for a rude and unreasonable silly girl.


    Ruan Zhu no longer paid attention to this so-called ¡®younger sister¡¯ and said towards Yun Shi Wei: ¡°Hurry and lift him up. Take him back and invite a physician to carefully look him over.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was stunned: ¡°I do not like repulsive men.¡±[e]


    Ruan Zhu sent him a quick glare: ¡°I told you to help him, so help him. You speak too much rubbish.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei unwillingly went over and helped Xuanyuan Min Zhi up. The latter had been kicked by the former earlier and had just been beaten by the servants so his injuries were not light.


    ¡°Stop right there! Blockhead was bought by the money I spent and none of you are allowed to move him. Put him down right this instant!¡± Ruan Ju had run up to them and barred Ruan Zhu¡¯s way: ¡°Don¡¯t think that just because Father likes you, you can do whatever you please. Mother still likes me!¡±


    Ruan Zhu knew speaking to her was only wasting brain cells and she felt annoyed to death. Seeing that the other had firmly grasped onto her arm, she started flinging her arm in the other direction. But Ruan Ju did not let go and the two of them pulled against each other in different directions. By chance, there was a small piece of ice underneath Ruan Zhu¡¯s foot and she abruptly slipped, tumbling onto the ground.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Ruan Zhu instinctively protected her stomach and fell onto the ground sideways. Whether the child in her belly had been injured was unclear, but this fall had nearly taken her life. It seemed as if all of her bones were going to break and a piercing pain suddenly came from her belly.


    ¡°Spouse!¡± Yun Shi Wei cried out in fear and threw aside Xuanyuan Min Zhi to run over and hold Ruan Zhu. However, he saw that her complexion was deathly pale and her entire body was trembling. He immediately lost his head in panic and impatiently asked: ¡°Where does it hurt; are you in pain?¡±


    The lower half of Ruan Zhu¡¯s body became wet and she knew that her water had broke. The child was being born.


    ¡°Quickly, carry me back¡­¡­I can¡¯t¡­¡­ah!¡­¡­it hurts¡­¡­¡±


    [a] I had such a hard time with this ¡®fire dragon¡¯ but I think it¡¯s just the the author¡¯s way of describing how an ancient person might call geothermal energy (aka Earth¡¯s interior heat).


    [b] ½àÉí×ÔºÃ, idiom meaning to avoid immorality; to keep one¡¯s hands clean


    [c] ¶«·½²»°Ü Dongfang Bu Bai is a fictional character in The Smiling, Proud Warrior¨Ca wuxia novel by Jin Yong¨Cwho castrates himself in order to learn the skills of a martial arts manual. It has been completely translated into English and the NovelUpdates link is here.


    [d] ¼ûÇ®ÑÛ¿ª, idiom meaning thinking of nothing but personal gain; money-grubbing


    [e] Irony (?); ³ô chou means smelly but can also mean repulsive; bad; etc. Might have been the author¡¯s way of poking fun at YSW for being a hypocrite by saying he hated smelly men but I could also be overthinking this.

 Chapter 54

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    The servants standing by the side were all stunned silly. If anything occurred to the Eldest Miss, and Master was infuriated and started investigating, even they did not need to think about surviving this ordeal.


    Ruan Ju finally knew to be scared: ¡°It has nothing to do with me. It was her that insisted on provoking me. She fought with me for my bedwarmer; she fell by herself; I didn¡¯t push her¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was terrified and shouted towards the servants: ¡°What are you all foolishly standing there for? Not going to quickly invite a physician?¡± Seeing the deathly pale face of the wife in his arms, his long-fearless heart started pounding violently. He lifted her up horizontally and ran towards Furong Garden as if he was flying.


    Midway there, they just so happened to meet Ruan Ju, who was on the veranda, instructing a few of the residence¡¯s servants in sweeping the snow-covered courtyard. Seeing Yun Shi Wei running over with Ruan Zhu in his arms, she knew something had happened.


    She hastily rushed towards them to inquire: ¡°Second Cousin, what happened to my Eldest Sister?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei did not stop and sprinted past her while yelling: ¡°She was pushed by your family¡¯s third daughter. Seeing her like this, she¡¯s probably about to give birth. Hurry and go find my brother, and then find those midwives in the residence and send them over.¡±


    Ruan Ju dazedly stared at the figures growing further away and turned to point at the servants that were still working: ¡°Xiao San Zi, go tell my Eldest Sister¡¯s matter to my Pa. Xiao Si and Xiao Wu, follow me in finding that slut. I must peel off her skin!¡±


    Right at that time Yun Shi Yi was in Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s study, speaking of Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s origin, how he currently was in the residence as a slave, and the matter of him being whipped by Ruan Ju.


    Ruan Zi Xu was so angry he directly slapped the table. He had bore it all for his wife and kindly bestowed food for the Wei family to eat. But this evil creature has unexpectedly gone in the opposite direction and ruined the Ruan clan. This time, he absolutely could not tolerate this.


    ¡°Master, not good, something has happened.¡± A servant pushed the door open in a rush.


    ¡°Outrageous! Who allowed you to be like this without manners? If there is something, do you not know to announce yourself?¡± Ruan Zi Xi was in a fit of anger and opened his mouth to berate him.


    The servant continued to pant for air. With one glance, it was clear he had just very anxiously sprinted over: ¡°Master¡­¡­Eldest Son-in-Law¡­¡­it¡¯s not good, Eldest Miss, she¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s face rapidly changed and he suddenly grabbed the servant: ¡°Say it again!?¡±


    The servant¡¯s two shoulders were captured in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s grip, and he saw a pair of glaring eyes that seemed as if flame were about to erupt. He couldn¡¯t help but become tongue-tied from panic and trembled: ¡°Eldest Miss¡­¡­Eldest Miss had an accident¡­¡­it looks like she can¡¯t¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Yi couldn¡¯t spare the time to ask him for a reason. Pushing the other aside, he flew out of the study.


    Ruan Zi Xu had walked forward a few steps and aimed a kick towards the servant, roaring: ¡°Tell me everything in order. If you dare to stutter one time, I¡¯ll sell off your entire family, old and young, to the mountains to dig iron ore.¡±


    Upon hearing those words, the servant immediately calmed down and said everything clearly: ¡°Eldest Miss had been pushed to the ground by Third Miss and couldn¡¯t take it. Second Son-in-Law met Second Miss in the courtyard while carrying Eldest Miss. After Second Miss heard the situation, she let this small one report the situation and also said to find the midwives without delay.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s heart was frantic. He exited the study, asking as he walked: ¡°Have you gone to find the midwives yet?¡±


    The servant followed behind him: ¡°Replying to Master, the several midwives that Master had invited previously reside in the connecting courtyard and us little ones all know. Second Miss has already instructed Xiao San Zi to find them.¡±


    ¡°What about Second Miss?¡±


    ¡°Second Miss was full of anger and she took Xiao Si and Xiao Wu to collect her debt from Third Miss.¡±


    Hatred appeared on Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s face: ¡°Bring a group of servants with you to tie up that animal and throw her in the woodshed. When I have time, I will go handle it. Then call people to keep a tight watch on Wei Rong.¡±


    ¡°This small one understands.¡±


    ¡°Oh right, hurry and go inform the Madam and tell her I will wait for her in Furong Garden.¡±


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    This type of agony exceeded any other kind of pain in the world; even the pain of a knife being stabbed into one¡¯s legs or arms and then forcefully wrenched out could not compare. In the beginning, the pain came once every four to five minutes, then changed to once every two minutes, then finally became once every minute.


    If it was only pain that lasted for a while, it would be fine, but this sort of agony did not have an end and continuously tormented her body, her energy, and her will.


    She was on the bed, her body curled up. The pain that had just passed was immediately followed by another wave of pain that could topple the mountains and overturn the seas[a].


    She wanted to alleviate her suffering and hastily hit her own leg; doing this seemed to be of some help.


    Yun Shi Wei did not know what was best to do and was completely panic-stricken. He pulled her into his embrace to comfort her and continuously looked outside the window to see if the midwives had arrived yet.


    ¡°Second Cousin, it hurts so much.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. Spouse, hit me, don¡¯t hit yourself. Hit me, I¡¯m resistant to beatings.¡±


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing had never experienced this before and had long run out ideas.


    Yun Shi Yi burst inside the room. Seeing his wife so feeble, he took her out from Yun Shi Wei¡¯s arms, continuously asking: ¡°Wife, what happened, are you injured? Quickly tell this husband where it hurts; did something happen to our child?¡±


    Ruan Zhu saw him and it was like she had saw hope. She pulled on his arm: ¡°Eldest Cousin, help me pound my legs. Do it strongly¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s heart was in unspeakable pain and he gently pat the one in his arms: ¡°Be good and listen, later when the midwives come, all will be fine. Endure it, okay?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡­I can¡¯t¡­¡­AH!¡­¡­¡±


    Another wave of acute pain attacked her and her entire body shook. She grabbed onto his lapel as if she was clutching at life-saving straws.


    After the three midwives had arrived, they saw that the amniotic fluid had basically all flowed out and they all became nervous.


    Under the circumstances of an expecting mother not having any amniotic fluid, she could only have a dry birth, which was extremely difficult and also extraordinarily dangerous. The child was also in danger as without the amniotic fluid, they were without an environment to live in, causing breathing to become difficult. After a long time, the fetus could even suffocate to death.


    The midwives inspected Ruan Zhu¡¯s cervix and discovered that it had not fully opened. It simply was not yet time to give birth.


    Yun Shi Yi saw that their expressions were not right and inquired. They honestly answered and even added that under the condition of having no amniotic fluid, childbirth would be very difficult, and preparations must be made.


    What sort of preparation was this? Preparing their hearts or preparing for what comes after? The midwives did not clarify.


    But Ruan Zhu felt despair. If it was her past world, then it would be fine as a cesarean birth was possible if a natural one was not. But this surgical procedure did not exist in Tian Chu. Her thoughts were pessimistic and tears flowed from the corners of her eyes into the hair at her temples.


    The midwives wanted Yun Shi Yi to leave, but how could he be willing to do so? He continued to hold onto Ruan Zhu¡¯s hand to reassure her.


    ¡°Wife, everything is all right. Listen to me and pull yourself together, okay? In a little while, the child can be born.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was tormented by contractions to no end. Thinking of something, she suddenly grabbed him: ¡°Eldest Cousin, listen to me. In the case that I can no longer give birth and am no longer breathing, you should quickly have someone slice open my stomach and take out the child. This way, the child can live.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s emotions stirred: ¡°What words are you saying? What is this ¡®if I can no longer give birth¡¯? Ruan Zhu, you listen to me, even if it is just one breath, you must continue living for me. Clench your teeth and give birth to the child for me.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Ruan Zhu sobbed out: ¡°Even if I only have one breath left, I¡¯ll still give birth to the child. Can¡¯t¡­¡­can¡¯t let the child be without a mother right after they¡¯ve been born, can¡¯t let you live alone with the pain.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi shouted in a loud voice: ¡°As long as you know, then that¡¯s good. You have to understand, if you are no longer here, I will immediately follow you. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can try me.¡±


    Tears suddenly came out of Yun Shi Wei¡¯s eyes and he hugged one of Ruan Zhu¡¯s arms. He was choked with sobs: ¡°Spouse you must survive. Listen, if¡­¡­if you are no longer here, I will also follow you.¡±


    ¡°I will, I will definitely survive.¡± For them, she also had to live. Again, another wave of painful contractions hit her. Her entire body spasmed from the pain and she sucked in air between her teeth to scream: ¡°Both of you should leave! I don¡¯t want either of you to see me like this.¡±


    She wanted to give the most beautiful side of herself to her Lord Husbands, not this battered and exhausted state.


    Yet the two Yun brothers tightly hugged her.


    Ruan Zi Xu stood outside and had someone call the midwives inside to come out. He gave them an order under death¨Cif something happened to his eldest daughter and grandchild, he would have their entire families buried with them.


    These words of his were not a bluff as with the Ruan clan¡¯s power and influence, it was nothing to execute a few ordinary commoners.


    The few midwives all became shaken. Returning to the delivery room, they took out 120,000 of their energy to handle the most difficult situation of their lives.


    ¡°How is it, how is it, nothing happened to Zhu¡¯er, right?¡± Madam Ruan had heard the report and rushed towards Furong Garden.


    Hearing a voice, Ruan Zi Xu turned around and resolutely stared at her, enunciating each word clearly: ¡°If something happens to my daughter and grandchild, hear this, I will unilaterally divorce you and you can take your concubines and those concubine-born children with you and leave my family.¡±


    The laws of Tian Chu did not allow a unilateral divorce and men that had gone through this process were not qualified to remarry. But if there was a man who had power and was determined to divorce, the law was still just a worthless piece of paper.


    Madam Ruan resigned herself to being in the wrong: ¡°I will go look at Zhu¡¯er.¡±


    Madam Ruan had given birth to over ten children. Though seven of those were twins, when all was considered, she was still experienced. The first thing she did when she entered was to kick both the Yun brothers and the two bedwarmers out.


    This custom of Tian Chu¡¯s closely followed history¨Cwhen females gave birth, it was best for me to not be too close.


    ¡°How is my Eldest Sister; has the child been born yet?¡± Ruan Ju came over, but her hairpins were crooked and her hair was a mess. She was covered all over in mud; there were a few scratches on her neck and her lip had also split. It was exactly as if she had just been in a fight.


    ¡°What in the world happened to you?¡± Ruan Zi Xu asked. His second daughter had a wild temper but had never physically come to blows with someone before.


    ¡°I beat up that little slut. Pa, don¡¯t look at these few scratches, that slut is even worse than me. I guarantee she won¡¯t be able to get up from her bed for half a month.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s face was cold. How could ¡®not being able to get out of bed for a mere half month¡¯ possibly be enough?


    An entire night went past and the child still had not been born yet. Ruan Zhu had been so tormented that she didn¡¯t have the tiniest bit of strength and even her screams were low and weak, like whimpers issued from the depths of her soul.


    The midwifes and Madam Ruan discussed for a while and decided to give Ruan Zhu medicine that could induce labor. Holding the prepared soup, two people supported her while one person was responsible for the medicine.


    The current Ruan Zhu was like a puppet as they manipulated her about.


    As soon as the medicine entered her body, it stimulated her so much that it could have taken one¡¯s life.


    Ruan Zhu gave a plaintive shriek and was in so much pain, she rolled around in bed. Her throat had become hoarse from all of the screaming and in a flash her long hair had become soaked with sweat, as if she had just been fished out of water.


    Yun Shi Yi and Yun Shi Wei couldn¡¯t bear it any longer and simultaneously charged inside. Seeing that they wouldn¡¯t budge, Madam Ruan decided to let them be.


    Right at this time, Lu Piao Xiang walked inside Furong Garden with two people.


    They were covered head-to-toe in dust as if they had come a very long way. Entering the outer room, they saw Ruan Zi Xu with a worried look on his face.


    Lu Piao Xiang greeted him: ¡°Master need not worry. I have brought a physician and midwife from the capital. Imperial Physician Zhang has come to visit the patient on behalf of the imperial family and his skill is excellent. Wet Nurse Li has delivered over a thousand children and has gone through various situations and is very experienced.¡±


    ¡°An imperial physician? Someone who takes care of the imperial family and one who delivers newborns?¡± Ruan Zi Xu looked in astonishment at the man and woman that came behind. They were both no longer young with the man around fifty some years while the woman looked over sixty.


    He bowed in greeting: ¡°Troubling these two honored guests to save my humble daughter¡¯s life.¡±


    ¡°We do not dare, do not dare. We will strive to our utmost.¡±


    ¡°Master Ruan, you should be at ease. Nothing will happen to your precious daughter. This old one will certainly spare no effort.¡±


    The two people that Lu Piao Xiang had brought were originally rather arrogant, but they saw that he had actually saluted Ruan Zi Xu and immediately became respectful.


    ¡°Imperial Physician Zhang, Wet Nurse Li, quickly follow me inside!¡± Lu Piao Xiang said towards the two people: ¡°If the mother and child are safe and sound, it will benefit the two of you. If there is the slightest mishap, you can just go to Da Jue Mountain to dig iron ore!¡±


    Da Jue Mountain was located in the northwest and was rich in iron ore. However, the weather in winter was extremely harsh and conditions were difficult so the people sent there usually only lasted four to five months. Normally, only criminals given the death penalty and captives from enemy countries were shipped here and practically no one returned alive.


    Panic appeared in the eyes of the two people as they followed Lu Piao Xiang inside the room.


    ¡°Pa, I heard wrong when Mister Lu called that man ¡®imperial physician,¡¯ right?¡± Ruan Ju blankly stared after them before turning towards Ruan Zi Xu. Because she was an unmarried female, she could not enter the delivery room and stood in the outer room with her father.


    Ruan Zi Xu shook his head. Yesterday, Lu Piao Xiang was still in Yu Zhou. In only one day, he had managed to invite an imperial physician and midwife from the capital. It was true that Yu Zhou was not far from the capital, but this speed was too fast, right!


    Imperial Physician Zhang felt Ruan Zhu¡¯s pulse. Taking out a pill, he had someone crush it before pouring it down her throat. Perhaps it was something like a stimulant for the previous her that was at her last breath rapidly regained her vitality.


    ¡°Wife, wife, do you feel better now?¡±


    ¡°Spouse, you must live well.¡±


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, you must remember, I still want to hear you sing that ¡®Plum Blossoms Blooming Thrice¡¯ song. ¡®What is love?¡¯ I ask the world. How it renders death trivial, when life relinquishes in your will?¡±[b] (Translation by bluecrowx @ wordpress)


    Ruan Zhu slightly turned sideways and her eyes flit across the three men by her side, one by one: ¡°Eldest Cousin, Second Cousin, Big Brother Lu, I am fine, you all should leave. I will definitely give birth to the child and survive.¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang felt these men were vexing. Despite being naturally timid, he was quite obstinate when practicing medicine and had them all leave, saying they disturbed his state of mind.


    The three men entered the outer room and waited, neither of them able to sit or stand still.


    The ones outside heard pain-filled screams and saw servants coming to and fro¨Cbringing out basins of blood and exchanging them for steaming hot water that they then carried inside.


    One sichen later, the anxiously waiting men finally heard the cries of a newborn inside and Madam Ruan loudly shouted: ¡°It¡¯s a boy; both mother and child are well.¡±


    In a split second, Yun Shi Yi¡¯s cheeks streamed with tears and he burst into the delivery room with a heart full of joy; Yun Shi Wei and Lu Piao Xiang also closely following him behind.


    ¡°I have a grandson.¡± Ruan Zhi Xu elatedly said.


    ¡°It¡¯s your daughter¡¯s son.¡±[c] Ruan Yu poured cold water over his enthusiasm. However, she couldn¡¯t prevent a smile from appearing on her face and had said that while skipping over to the other room. She hadn¡¯t yet gone halfway when her arm was tightly grasped by Ruan Zi Xu.


    ¡°What are you doing, Pa?¡±


    ¡°Accompany Pa in drinking two cups. I have to carefully give my grandson a name.¡±


    ¡°Picking a name is a father¡¯s right. This is the first time in his life Eldest Cousin became a father so you oldie shouldn¡¯t try to add more pressure. Be magnanimous, okay?¡±


    ¡°Is being a father for the first time that wonderful? This father has become a grandfather for the first time in my life.¡±


    ¡°It is maternal grandfather, maternal¡­..Pa, you really have become senile.¡±


    ¡°Have I become old? Where am I old? Your mother has never disliked me for being old, hmph!¡±


    The father and daughter pair stood in the outer room firing at each other with their mouths as weapons, while inside the delivery room was a Yun Shi Yi who had malfunctioned from happiness.


    With joy from the bottom of her heard, Madam Ruan handed over the already bundled child for him to see. He hurriedly took a glance and stopped in front of his wife, grabbing her hand and unable to speak from being so emotionally moved.


    Ruan Zhu gave an exhausted smile. After finally giving birth to the child, her body felt unspeakably light as if she had just expelled a large stone weighing over ten catties. But she was also severely weak from being tormented for over a dozen hours, and she soon fell fast asleep.


    [a] ÅÅɽµ¹º£, idiom meaning earth-shattering; etc


    [b] This is the opening line to the famous poem ÑãÇñ´Ê Tune of the Wild Geese¡¯s Tomb by ÔªºÃÎÊ Yuan Hao Wen. The story is that he met a hunter who said he had killed a wild geese. Its partner had soared in the sky before plunging into the ground and killing itself. Yuan had been so moved by this love that he composed this poem. Translation from here.


    [c] Important distinction that I hope got across. RZX says Ëï×Ó lit. grandson while RY says ÍâËï×Ó lit. outside grandson and means daughter¡¯s son. A daughter¡¯s child (whether M or F) is considered ¡®outside¡¯ the family line because their child would take on their father¡¯s surname etc, whereas a son¡¯s child would be ¡®inside¡¯ the family and is simply called Ëï×Ó.

 Chapter 55

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    [1] word | text | description


    [2] word | text | description


    ʯ | dan | dry measure for grain around one hundred liters


    Yun Shi Yi saw that his wife had fallen asleep and carefully tucked her quilt around her before turning around and taking the child from Madam Ruan.


    Madam Ruan was worried he didn¡¯t know how to hold his child and hurriedly said: ¡°Put the child¡¯s head in the crook of your arm so that your arm supports his upper body. Yes, just like that, use your right hand to support his waist and butt. Newborns are frail, all right? When you are holding him, you must remember to be careful. If you pull his lower back, there will be trouble.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi very carefully held his child and lowered his head to scrutinize the rosy little face that was currently sleeping. This was his son; his own offspring; someone that was connected to him by blood.


    A sort of pride at becoming a father flashed in his brilliantly handsome face.


    Ruan Yu walked in from the outer room. Seeing her sister¡¯s son in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s arms, her eyes brightened, and she happily stroked the small face with her hand. Madam Ruan lifted her hand and knocked her daughter¡¯s away, berating: ¡°Look at you, filthy all over yet you dare to touch the child. You have immunity so you are fine, but the child is so small. If it gets sick, what will we do then?¡±


    Ruan Yu pouted and very unhappily stood by the side.


    Lu Piao Xiang looked on with fervent eyes: ¡°Can I hold him?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi knew he had invited the imperial physician and wet nurse from the capital and was the reason why Ruan Zhu¡¯s life had returned. Although he was unwilling, it was not good to refuse him, and he handed the child over to him.


    Lu Piao Xiang carefully took the child and held the small and frail body. His heart immediately softened. Someday, when Zhu¡¯er gave birth to his child, it would be like this scene, right? But thinking of how she had hovered between life and death while giving birth, his heart again pounded with pain.


    ¡°Eldest Brother, I also want to hold him.¡± Yun Shi Wei crowded over: ¡°I am the child¡¯s concubine-Father and also the child¡¯s paternal uncle; I have the right to hold him.¡±


    ¡°You ah, you can touch.¡± Yun Shi Yi did not trust him.


    Madam Ruan took the child out of Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s arms and carried him to the outer room for her own family¡¯s Lord Husband to see.


    Ruan Zi Xu held him until his mouth that was smiling with happiness could not be closed. Taking it easy, he roared with laughter, and for a very long while, was not willing to let go.


    Being busy for such a long time, everyone was tired and hungry, and the servants received an order to arrange a banquet in the main hall.


    The child was handed over to Madam Ruan and Ruan Yu to look after, while Ruan Zi Xu led a group of people to eat.


    During the banquet, he urged the imperial physician and midwife that Lu Piao Xiang had invited (brought/S) into the seat of honor and took out large amounts of money to thank them. The two of them only dared to accept after receiving Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s acquiescence.


    Everyone urged each other to drink and not long after, they were all intoxicated to some degree.


    When the feast was dismissed, living arrangements for both the imperial physician and midwife were arranged and a male servant was instructed to lead them to their respective rooms.


    The two Yun brothers and Lu Piao Xiang were currently just about to bow and ask to be excused when the residence¡¯s Steward Yang came to report that the concubine Wei Rong was causing an outrageous racket and wanted to see Madam Ruan no matter what. Wei Rong had attempted to hang himself and also knocked his head against the wall. The servant keeping watch was afraid that if something happened, he wouldn¡¯t be able to explain himself cleanly, thus he came to report this to the Master to ask how this should be handled.


    Ruan Zi Xu had not slept for an entire night and his eyes were so tired, he could barely keep them open. Irritated, he said: ¡°He wants to hang himself, you can just hand over rope. He wants to bang his head against the wall; if the force is not enough, you can just push him. How big of an issue is this, yet you still come find me? Aiya, shoot!¡­¡­¡± He recalled Xuanyuan Min Zhi and slapped his forehead. How could he have forgotten such an important matter? He hastily asked Steward Yang: ¡°That servant that had been abused by Ruan Ju, where is he currently?¡±


    ¡°If Master is referring to Third Miss¡¯s newly received bedwarmer, that person¡¯s injuries are not light and was carried by servants into the servants¡¯ quarters. Because Eldest Miss had been in labor, this small one did not dare to ask Master for instructions and delayed the matter. In any case, that one is just a servant so this small one will later go find a doctor to take a look or so. If the medical skill is good, then that is him being lucky in this life; if the treatment is not good, then we¡¯ll drag him outside the city and bury him in a hole somewhere.¡±


    What Steward Yang said was not wrong. During this famine, hordes of people had died and there were numerous cases of the refugees from the south being so ill they could no longer eat. Every day in Yu Zhou, one could see poverty-stricken civilians carrying shriveled corpses outside the city walls.


    Ruan Zi Xu was gloomy to death. If the situation was as uncomplicated as Steward Yang had said, then it would be easy to handle and he would also not have to be so alarmed. His wife and children, his precious grandson that had just been born¨Cif he didn¡¯t handle this matter well, then the lives of his entire clan would be over.


    Yun Shi Yi understood his worries: ¡°Uncle does not need to be anxious. As long as we arrange for Xuanyuan Min Zhi well, then the outcome will at least not be that terrible. What¡¯s more, with the current chaotic situation, how many large matters does the imperial court have to manage? It is true that Xuanyuan Min Zhi is a prince, but he had been given up for adoption to the country of Nan Ling when he was young. How could the Emperor remember his appearance? Their relationship should long have become one of strangers.¡±


    Furthermore, Xuanyuan Min Zhi was not the Emperor¡¯s biological son as the current Emperor could not have children. It was a long public secret that the children at the Emperor¡¯s knee were all the flesh and blood of his brothers.


    What Yun Shi Yi said had some basis, but Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s mood did not improve by much.


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s clear and bright eyes that were like stars slightly blinked and exposed a happy and content glow. A smile spilled forth and he suggested: ¡°Hand over this situation with Xuanyuan Min Zhi to me. There is no need to worry. How big of a matter could a small prince that had fallen to this level cause? I will take responsibility in settling this matter.¡±


    ¡°You?¡± Ruan Zi Xu thought about how even the imperial physician of the imperial family could bow his head and obey the orders of the one in front of him. Though he was not fully convinced, he couldn¡¯t help but to be persuaded.


    Lu Piao Xiang discreetly yawned and said: ¡°Let us return and sleep first and then discuss Xuanyuan Min Zhi tomorrow. It serves that guy right to be this out of luck; to be bought as a slave and even become a bedwarmer. When I heard all this, how much did I laugh? Just let him obediently stay in the servants¡¯ quarters for two days, okay?¡±


    After he finished speaking, Lu Piao Xiang bowed in greeting towards Ruan Zi Xu and turned to return to his own Zhen Xia Pavilion. He had not slept since before last night when he mounted a fast horse and traveled through the night to make a round-trip to the capital and had long felt an exhaustion that was hard to bear.


    Ruan Zi Xu blankly stared at Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s retreating figure: ¡°How much power and influence does he actually have for even a prince to not be placed in his eyes and to be able to invite an imperial physician?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi also thought it was strange: ¡°I heard he is a courtesan from Lan Zhou and is the number one of the Four Great Masters in Lan Zhou. But the impression he gives people is simply unlike one.¡±


    ¡°A courtesan?¡± Ruan Zi Xu shook his head: ¡°That is impossible. He was born in a prosperous and great family and his parents are influential people in the capital. How could he possibly be a courtesan? There must a secret here.¡±


    ¡°What do we do about Xuanyuan Min Zhi?¡± Yun Shi Yi asked. Could it be that they were really going to do what Lu Piao Xiang suggested¨Cfirst throw him into the servants¡¯ quarters and let him accumulate mold?


    Ruan Zi Xu thought for a moment and then instructed Steward Yang: ¡°Isn¡¯t the small courtyard called Wo Xue Pavilion, next to the Zhen Xia Pavilion Mister Lu is staying in, still empty? Have some people tidy it up. After it has become warm and hospitable, invite him to stay there before going to the best medicine hall in the city and invite a physician to diagnose and treat him.¡±


    It was true that there was an imperial physician in the residence, but he did not dare to trouble them. If by chance the imperial family knew about one being here, then there would be trouble. It was best to send out the imperial physician at the first opportunity.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Yun Shi Yi returned to Furong Garden and wearily laid down next to his wife after seeing she was still asleep. He had not rested for the whole night and was also tired.


    Madam Ruan was sometimes unbelievably biased, but was still considered a qualified mother and very quickly had found a wet nurse for the child.


    The women in Tian Chu were respected but there were also many impoverished households that could not afford to continue living. Nowadays, there were also many refugees from the south and finding a wet nurse was very easy. In not even the span of one day, the steward had brought seven women into the residence. Madam Ruan looked for a young woman with a dignified appearance and amiable temperament and had her remain. The rest were given one tael of silver each and sent back.


    Ruan Zhu really wanted to personally breastfeed her child because doing so would create more intimate feelings between them. Unfortunately, she had lost too much blood during labor and had very little milk, so she was afraid that if she personally fed him, he would starve.


    Yun Shi Yi had comforted her: At worst, when the child has been weaned, we can drive out the wet nurse. The child is small so how could he remember who had fed him?


    Thus, for two days in a row, Madam Ruan was busy with the matters of her eldest daughter¡¯s delivery and finding a wet nurse for her grandson. She was so unbearably weary that she ducked inside Jin Se Hall and blackout out in the bedroom, having long pushed Wei Rong into the back of her mind and forgotten about him. Added with Ruan Zi Xu having prematurely commanded the servants to deliberately conceal the matter, she naturally did not know that her most doted on concubine was currently in deep water and scorching fire.[a]


    Wei Rong, this man, had soft skin and tender flesh. His skin was even whiter than that of a woman¡¯s and could be classified as sparkling and erotic. A pair of watery and large eyes always looked at others with tender feelings, so delicate and touching. When he interacted with Madam Ruan, there was no need for him to talk as merely using his eyes was enough to hook onto her mortal and immortal souls.[b]


    There were two kinds of terms the future generation would give these sort of men, both of which were derogatory. One was ¡®false woman,¡¯ the other one was ¡®a bottom.¡¯


    Only Madam Ruan would like this sort of man. If it was Ruan Zhu, she would have long strategically withdrawn and felt disgusted.


    Ruan Zi Xu was the same as all of the men in his generation in believing the ¡®one woman, many husbands¡¯ system was heaven¡¯s law and earth¡¯s principle. If he could endure his wife¡¯s secondary husbands, then he would do so, but if he couldn¡¯t, then he would separate. In the past he had always looked at his wife¡¯s side and given them a way out, but this time he thought it was time to dispose of them.


    He decided to conduct a public trial and the place where he wanted to do that was strange as it was precisely in the Ruan residence¡¯s flower garden. He sat on top of the stone bench in the pavilion, where a soft cushion had been placed underneath his buttocks. There was a brazier on the ground on either side of him as well as a small stove on top of the stone table where tea was boiling. Tea cups and everything else that could be needed was already provided and available.


    He sipped the scalding aromatic tea while chatting with his daughter Ruan Yu.


    On the stone platform behind Ruan Zi Xu sat his wife¡¯s other secondary husbands, all of them looking at the person kneeling outside the pavilion and rejoicing in his misfortune.


    All of the people in the pavilion were dressed very warmly in thick clothes; there was hot tea to drink; and there was a stove to warm themselves with, so even if it was cold outside, they were not.


    But kneeling outside the pavilion on the snow-covered ground, there was a man. If one said he was not cold, even an immortal would not believe him.


    Wei Rong had been thrown onto the snowy ground by the servants. These past few days, he had not eaten nor slept well. His facial hair was unkempt, his eyes were soulless, and his gorgeous fox fur cloak had been exchanged by who knows which servant that lacked morals for a filthy and tattered sheepskin-lined robe.


    Although he was wearing cotton-padded clothing, anyone who had to kneel on the snow-covered ground for such a long period of time would also be unable to bear it. When he began to stand up, he knelt back down again after hearing the conversation between the father-daughter pair in the pavilion.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er, you just came from the woodshed. That one called Ruan Ju is still alive, right?¡± Ruan Zi Xu felt that Wei Rong¡¯s daughter taking the surname ¡®Ruan¡¯ truly insulted his noble family name.


    ¡°Of course she¡¯s living well. Apart from her eyes being greenish black; her nose being crooked; the skin on her arms peeling; her leg a bit crippled; everything else is very good, with no broken arms or legs but that will be hard to say in these next few days. I heard there was a group of beggars that had fled from the south to the street behind our back gate and Xiao San Zi said they had worked together and demanded the blind daughter of the wonton seller to become their wife. Pa, don¡¯t you think those beggars are truly foolish? Don¡¯t tell me a blind wife could compare to our family¡¯s Third Miss?¡±


    ¡°Have you brought up our family¡¯s Third Miss to the beggars before?¡±


    ¡°Not yet, but I just let Xiao San Zi go act as the matchmaker.¡±


    ¡°Tell Xiao San Zi, if the beggars agree to our residence¡¯s Third Miss, I will give them five dan of husked rice as a dowry.¡±


    ¡°Pa, you¡¯re really stingy. Only five dan of husked rice; even when our servants are married their dowry isn¡¯t this little.¡±


    ¡°You shameful silly girl, the prices of everything outside has soared and husked rice has risen to two thousand coins per one dan. How many people could five dan of husked rice feed?¡± Ruan Zi Xu pointed towards Third Concubine-Father that was behind him: ¡°Old Third, you tell her, what is the value of five dan of husked rice?¡±


    Third Concubine-Father was a poor declining scholar whose birth status was higher than Wei Rong¡¯s but without the other¡¯s good looks. Madam Ruan had plenty of respect for him but not enough affection; thus, what he had always hated was Wei Rong¡¯s domineering attitude.


    ¡°Replying to my Lord, one dan of rice is equal to ten dou and ten dou is equal to one hundred sheng, thus one dan is one thousand sheng. One thousand sheng is exactly two thousand catties. My Lord wants to send five dan of rice but is actually sending out one thousand catties of husked rice. If they were frugal, a family with over ten mouths would not even be able to finish it all in one year.¡±


    ¡°Silly girl, do you understand now? Is Pa a stingy man?¡±


    Wei Rong could no longer remain calm and plopped onto the ground. The ice-cold snow quickly transmitted into his knees and he felt so chilled his entire body shivered. He was so frozen with shock and cold that he did not dare to get up.


    ¡°My Lord, my Lord.¡± Wei Rong repeatedly kowtowed.


    ¡°I heard Madam say, you plan to give your own son up for adoption to the Ruan clan?¡± Ruan Zi Xu sneered: ¡°And you don¡¯t even see what kind of thing you are. Would I let your filthy and lowly blood dirty the sky that is my Ruan clan?¡±


    Wei Rong¡¯s son was also Madam Ruan¡¯s son and had been established in the household register as Wei Jia. He and Ruan Ju were fraternal twins. From childhood, he had studied at the city¡¯s largest imperial-court-funded academy in the city, which had a considerable tuition fee each year that had always been paid for by the Ruan family.


    ¡°My Lord, I beg you to spare the children. The tyranny was all me. The children, the Madam¡¯s children, has always called my Lord as ¡®Father,¡¯ may my Lord be magnanimous and spare them this once.¡± Wei Rong continued to use those large watery eyes to look at people and his appearance was unspeakably moving.


    Ruan Zi Xu almost vomited and abruptly slammed his hand against the table, shouting: ¡°Just because of one word ¡®Father,¡¯ each one of you committed evil with your black consciences and framed me as the one that had set up the poison and had the impertinence to nearly bring calamity onto my daughter¡¯s life.¡±


    The night of last year¡¯s lunar New Year, Wei Rong had unfathomably been poisoned and to everyone¡¯s surprise, the investigation had pointed to Ruan Zi Xu. Madam Ruan had flown into a terrible rage and and the husband and wife pair failed to reconcile even a month afterwards.


    Finally, it was Ruan Zhu that took the blame and said that the poison was her doing. In a fit of fury, Madam Ruan had confined her daughter to her room for one month and soon after had her wed off to a distant place.


    The reason why Ruan Zi Xu at that time did not oppose the marriage was because his daughter¡¯s husband was his own sister¡¯s son. Though the distance was too far, at least the Yun family would not treat his daughter too badly due to their relations.


    But whenever Ruan Zi Xu thought of this matter, he would be so full of hatred his teeth would start to itch. Presently, he could at last find a reason to punish this harbinger of evil.


    ¡°How would I dare to frame my Lord; that was an accident. That lunar New Year¡¯s night, Second Miss had quarreled with my child and mocked her for being concubine-born. I had meant to implicate Second Miss, not my Lord at all. But Second Miss had gone to watch the fireworks on the street which is why Madam had thought my Lord had done it¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu became even more furious after hearing his words: ¡°You thing with a heart of a wolf and lungs of a dog,[c] the food I provided your Wei family, the clothes I provided your Wei family, the money I provided your son to attend lessons, this is exactly how you all repay me?!¡±


    Wei Rong repeatedly kowtowed: ¡°Begging my Lord to please spare my silly girl; all of it is my wrong; let me take on the entire responsibility.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu coldly smiled: ¡°Just a few days earlier your silly girl almost killed my daughter and the child in her belly. Do you really think I can just let her go?¡±


    Wei Rong shouted: ¡°Madam will not agree. Ruan Ju is her most beloved daughter. She will definitely look to get even with you later.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s face was a sheet of ice: ¡°Sell this filthy thing that had crawled out of the red district to the capital¡¯s lowest whorehouse. Let him walk from here to there to make full use of him and to save on useless expenses.¡±


    Wei Rong shrieked: ¡°You dare! When Madam finds out, she won¡¯t agree. She will definitely look for you, she will never let you off¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s eyes were full of determination to sever all relationships with him: ¡°I heard there are a great deal of male refugees gathered in the capital that actually play with me because they do not have wives. You can just go enjoy that!¡±


    The laws of Tian Chu cited homosexuality as a capital offense to protect the breeding of future generations. But it was still impossible to stop a bachelor from solving his physiological needs, thus there were specialized prostitutes.


    Wei Rong became crazy: ¡°Ruan Zi Xu, you are not human. It serves you right to not be liked by Madam, haha¡­¡­She only likes me and only me; she will kill you; she will definitely kill you¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu flung his sleeve and shouted: ¡°Take him away and sell him to a lowly whorehouse in the capital that men are fond of visiting.¡±


    A group of servants ruthlessly rushed towards Wei Rong to tie him up before dragging him to the main gates of the Ruan residence and throwing him into a carriage that was to be personally supervised by Steward Yang on its journey to the capital.


    Wei Rong was sold off but the son and daughter pair he had left behind gave Ruan Zi Xu quite a headache. Even if Ruan Ju was malicious, she was still his wife¡¯s child. Sending her to be the beggars¡¯ wife was only used to scare Wei Rong. Did he really have to settle the matter like this?


    If he really did that, he truly feared this would forever remain a point of rancor for his wife.


    Ruan Yu could see her father¡¯s misgivings and offered: ¡°How about finding a small family, give some dowry, and marry her off!¡± What the eye doesn¡¯t see, the heart doesn¡¯t grieve over. Who knew what sort of trouble would be caused if she were to remain at home?


    Ruan Zi Xu lifted the teacup from the table for a sip and discovered it had already cooled. From behind him, Third Concubine-Father came forward to replenish his tea but was blocked by a wave of the others¡¯ arm: ¡°Ruan Ju¡¯s matter can only be done like this, but since the temperament of Wei Rong¡¯s son can be considered not bad, he will temporarily remain!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me Pa really intends to raise him?¡± Ruan Yu did not have much affection towards her little brother, but when all was said and done, she still could not bear to drive them all away.


    ¡°What else can I do?¡±


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Ruan Zhu took the child from the wet nurse. This child slept for twenty out of the twenty four hours in each day. She looked him over left and right but didn¡¯t find a place that resembled her; on the contrary, there were quite a few places where he resembled Yun Shi Yi.


    ¡°The child does not look like me.¡± Ruan Zhu sighed. How could the child she had given birth to not resemble her?


    ¡°Nonsense, it is naturally right for the son to resemble their father. If he looked liked his mother, he would have a hint of female qi and then you would have more complaints.¡± Yun Shi Yi kept watch by the side, his eyes shining with the compassion of a father: ¡°Our Little Zhi Xi is very handsome. When he grows up, he will definitely be a man with an impressive appearance.¡±


    This generation of the Yun family all had the common character ¡®Zhi,¡¯ and Ruan Zi Xu had added a ¡®Xi¡¯ so the two combined to form ¡®Zhi Xi.¡¯ Ruan Zhu kept thinking it was ¡®attentive¡¯ and had been opposed to the name but had been fought down.[d]


    Ruan Zi Xu argued with the force of his convictions: ¡®Xi¡¯ had the meaning of the sun, the meaning of bright prospects, and the meaning of happiness. What was inappropriate about it?


    Thus, the name of the eldest grandson[e] of the Yun clan¡¯s third generation was determined by the Ruan clan. For the paternal grandfather to not be able to name his grandchild, one did not know what the feelings of Master Yun in Lan Zhou would be.


    Right as they were speaking, Yun Shi Wei brought in a bowl of ginseng and fish head soup, a smile across his entire face: ¡°Spouse, quickly come drink the soup. The kitchen has simmered it for a very long time and it¡¯s very delicious.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei believed it was his negligence that led Ruan Zhu to be subjected to such a large mishap. If he had been a little more attentive that day, he would have definitely blocked the Ruan Ju that had gone completely crazy.


    During this period of time, he had been busy helping in front and behind the scenes and had snatched all of the servants¡¯ work, precisely to redeem some of his sin.


    Ruan Zhu looked at the bowl of soup and her entire face twisted. It didn¡¯t matter how delicious they had simmered it. If there was no salt, wouldn¡¯t it be the same as plain boiled water? Honestly, why couldn¡¯t they let women in postpartum recovery have salt?


    Yun Shi Yi let the wet nurse carry the child away and used a spoon to feed her, one mouthful at a time.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like I don¡¯t have hands yet you always feed me like this. After a long time, I fear my hands will no longer remember how to hold things.¡±


    Every time, Ruan Zhu protested like this but Yun Shi Yi always had words to block her.


    ¡°Wife, you can eat however you like after the confinement period is over, but you can¡¯t do it now. If your hands become excessively tired, don¡¯t you know it is extremely easy to have joint pain?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t know.¡±


    All of the women in postpartum recovery ate by themselves in movies and TV shows. The relatives in her past life also ate by themselves after giving birth. She had never heard this reproach of ¡®joint pain¡¯ before.


    ¡°Spouse, what Eldest Brother said has some truth. If you feel he is too crude, let me feed you; I am very attentive.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei, attentive? Who would believe that! Ruan Zhu shook her head: ¡°No need, Second Cousin, you took care of everything for such a long time and must have become tired. You should rest for a bit.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not tired; I like taking care of my spouse.¡±


    At that time, Lu Piao Xiang walked into the bedroom while carrying his guqin case and saw his beloved woman gradually regaining her exquisite figure. Love poured out from his clear and bright eyes. Thinking about how embracing the previous pregnant body was already very beautiful, he didn¡¯t know what sort of experience it would be like now.


    He moved according to his desire. Placing down the guqin, he stepped forward and pulled her into his arms, lightly placing a kiss on her lips and smelling the fragrance of milk on her body. In a split second, his thoughts and emotions had been thrown into disorder.


    ¡°Wife, you are truly beautiful.¡±


    Being kissed in front of her other two husbands, Ruan Zhu was a little shy: ¡°I haven¡¯t bathed in a long time, where am I beautiful?¡±


    During the one-month confinement period after childbirth, she couldn¡¯t bathe, couldn¡¯t wash her hair, couldn¡¯t have salt, couldn¡¯t do this, couldn¡¯t do that¡­¡­[f]


    ¡°Wife is forever the most beautiful.¡± Lu Piao Xiang lightly sighed in appreciation.


    [a] Ë®Éî»ðÈÈ, idiom meaning in a whole lot of torment


    [b] These are two types of souls in Chinese philosophy. »ê hun (lit. cloud-soul) is the ¡®immortal¡¯ soul which leaves the body after death; ÆÇ po (lit. white-soul) is the ¡®mortal¡¯ soul that stays with the body after death. There¡¯s a lot of semantics and philosophy involved here and there is a much deeper discussion on Wikipedia.


    [c] ÀÇÐĹ··Î, idiom meaning cruel and unscrupulous


    [d] Pun with homophones. Her son¡¯s name is Ö¾Îõ (ambitious and prosperous) which is pronounced zh¨¬ x¨©. ×Ðϸ (attentive, careful) is pronounced z¨«x¨¬.


    [e] Semantics, but the word used here (³¤Ëï) can also mean ¡®eldest son of the eldest son.¡¯


    [f] Chinese traditional postpartum recovery is a one-month confinement period where the new mother follows a strict diet of nourishing foods and observes various taboos to help with recovery and protect against illnesses, stress, etc. (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 56

    One should not be fooled by Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s indifferent expression that was always present and think he did not take anything to heart. He firmly believed there was one thing that would last forever, such as his obsession with music, and towards romantic love, his heart also felt the same.


    As a matter of fact, Ruan Zhu thought she had treated him unfairly. Ever since they wed, their interactions had been very brief and it was also under the circumstances where her body was inconvenienced.


    Like always, his clothes were eternally spotless and the impression he gave others was one that was fresh and clean like an ink and wash painting.


    She snuggled into his embrace and glanced at Yun Shi Yi from the corner of her eyes and mentally released a sigh of relief. Fortunately, her first husband was not angry. She had transmigrated into Tian Chu for so long and still didn¡¯t quite understand the psychology behind the men of this era sharing a common wife. Was it because one had to hear it and see it since childhood to be able to calmly accept it?


    ¡°Wife, may I stay behind tonight?¡± Lu Piao Xiang hugged the tender and soft body and was not willing to part. Thinking it would be best to be lay next to her where he could continue to hold her like this, enthusiasm suddenly poured into his mind like a wave.


    Ruan Zhu did not respond and looked in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s direction, as if looking for his opinion.


    Yun Shi Yi was grateful to Lu Piao Xiang for saving his wife¡¯s life. Since his fate was to share his wife with many men, he did not mind Lu Piao Xiang being one of them. He walked forward and placed a kiss on his wife¡¯s cheek: ¡°Wife can sleep between the two of us.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s face overflowed with happiness.


    Ruan Zhu also happily smiled. If this household could remain harmonious, her having a few more husbands wouldn¡¯t be bad as she could have even more love-struck fools.


    Yun Shi Wei was currently tidying the desk and stopped his movements after hearing his elder brother¡¯s words, his gentle eyes flashing.


    Ruan Zhu pounced: ¡°Second Cousin, is something the matter?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Yun Shi Wei evasively responded. His wife had met with mishap because of his carelessness and had almost left them forever. Continuously self-condemning himself, he did not have the right to ask for even more and left the room with the food tray while thinking: If Spouse likes it, then just let her be happy!


    Ruan Zhu innocently looked at the departing Yun Shi Wei. It¡¯s not that I didn¡¯t give you the opportunity, okay~ You didn¡¯t fight for it, so the blame is not on me.


    At night, she laid between the two men and was nestled inside the crook of Yun Shi Yi¡¯s arm.


    Lu Piao Xiang stuck close to her. A hand lightly caressed her smooth and soft skin and finally halted before her ample mounds on her chest. Two of his fingers pinched a red plum and pulled before then placing his entire hand on top¡­¡­He murmured next to her ear: ¡°Wife, this part is much fuller than before and also much softer.¡±


    The corner of Ruan Zhu¡¯s lips rose. After giving birth, who didn¡¯t have a bigger chest? If only it were possible for her to regain her previous sweet and graceful figure but keep her current chest size. Her other breast felt warm and she slightly turned her head¨CYun Shi Yi had covered it. Looking at his gentle eyes, warmth spread over her heart.


    Ruan Zhu was embraced by the two most outstanding men and felt a bliss that she had never felt before.


    The temperature in the room was a little low and Yun Shi Yi pulled a large quilt over all three of them.


    The two husbands knew they could not do that thing and only held her. They did not ask for more, but it was actually already everything they could wish for.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi had been moved to Wo Xue Pavilion. His external injuries were not serious but it was the previous poison that was hard to deal with.


    The physician invited from the medicine hall was a big letdown. He treated the external injuries but did not have the slightest idea what to do with the poison and against all reason, prescribed medicine to alleviate a fever. Even an amateur like Ruan Zi Xu, who knew nothing about the art of medicine, knew that a prescription to alleviate fevers treated excessive internal heat and using it to cure a poison was the same as the ravings of a lunatic.


    In a fit of curses, he drove the physician out and had two attendants follow him towards Wo Xue Pavilion while carrying a bowl of tonic. Yet he saw Imperial Physician Zhang feeling Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s pulse while Lu Piao Xiang sat in the taishi chair in front of the window, currently pouring a cup of aromatic tea to drink.


    Ruan Zi Xu was alarmed. He had continuously prevented the imperial physician from being too close to Xuanyuan Min Zhi but in the end, they still met. If by chance the matter of the prince being abused in Ruan clan was transmitted into the Emperor¡¯s ears, wouldn¡¯t his Ruan clan be finished?


    Lu Piao Xiang walked over to salute Ruan Zi Xu and invited him to sit, but Ruan Zi Xu did not have the courage to be too daring in the presence of a prince. Thus, not only that, he also bowed in greeting towards Xuanyuan Min Zhi. A commoner meeting a prince¨Cno matter what the circumstances were, one could only formally call upon them in greeting, right!


    Just as he was about to kneel, he was pulled up by Lu Piao Xiang who had suddenly strode forward. This son-in-law of his had great strength and most likely was one who knew martial arts; Ruan Zi Xu had been pulled up by him and unexpectedly couldn¡¯t resist.


    ¡°My Lord does not need to be courteous; everyone present is our own people. Prince Xuanyuan was poisoned, met with harm in a foreign country, experienced a rough life, and was fortunate to be saved from difficulty with your great assistance. There was never a need for retaliation so how could he accept your kowtow? There is no such reasoning like this in the world.¡±


    Hah? Speechless, Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s eyes were wide, and he was stunned silly. He had assisted Prince Xuanyuan? From where did this sentence come from? He only knew that the other had suffered extreme humiliation at the hands of the Ruan family during the most painful stage of his life.


    He had not assisted him; he had rubbed a layer of salt over his wounds.


    Imperial Physician Zhang had finished feeling Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s pulse and commended Ruan Zi Xu: ¡°Master Ruan is a generous and highly principled person to be so zealous in his aid towards Prince Xuanyuan when his identity was still unknown. It truly makes one admire him greatly. When this old one returns to the capital, this one will surely hand a memorial to His Imperial Majesty to award Master Ruan¡¯s achievements and virtues.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang faintly smiled: ¡°When you return to the capital, simply pretend as if nothing had happened, and furthermore, do not bring up anything regarding the Ruan clan¡¯s matters. If news of Prince Xuanyuan being here is leaked, there will be dangers that you cannot afford to bear responsibility for.¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang didn¡¯t expect to have patted a horse¡¯s leg when he tried to pat its butt[a] and hurriedly said: ¡°This small old one understands and will certainly not speak nonsense.¡±


    The grand imperial physician called himself ¡®this small one¡¯ towards Lu Piao Xiang. Ruan Zi Xu looked in amazement at this son-in-law of his.


    Ruan Zi Xu saw Xuanyuan Min Zhi was leaning against the bed¡¯s headboard and his heart became nervous. His eyes turning, he inquired: ¡°Asking Imperial Physician Zhang for guidance, this one is unaware of how His Highness¡¯s condition is?¡±


    There was some anxiety in Imperial Physician Zhang¡¯s eyes and he worriedly responded: ¡°Please forgive this small one¡¯s learnings for being artificial. Towards His Highness¡¯s poison, this one does not have the best understanding and wanting to eradicate this the same as all the other poisons is indeed impossible. But if His Highness were to follow the prescription written by this small one, this small one can at least guarantee the illness will not be worsened. Whether the poison can be slowly eradicated over time in the future cannot be known.¡±


    ¡°This future you speak of, how long does that require?¡± The Xuanyuan Min Zhi who had been frigid and icy from the start finally spoke.


    ¡°Let this small old think think for a moment, en, perhaps a year or perhaps within two years.¡±


    ¡°You might as well say this prince will never be well; that will make me more at ease.¡± A smiling Min Zhi grimly laughed.


    ¡°Although this small old one does not have great confidence towards His Highness¡¯s poison, this small one will absolutely not permit His Highness¡¯s poison to be at the state where it torments His Highness forever and is at an incurable state. May His Highness please remain at ease; it will help to alleviate your condition.¡±


    How should it be said¨CAs people aged, they became especially long-winded, and Imperial Physician Zhang was just like so.


    ¡°Leave the prescription; I will later have servants go and fill it. If Imperial Physician Zhang has no other matters, please return to your room and rest. When there is a situation, we will once again have to trouble you.¡± Lu Piao Xiang took the proffered prescription and looked it over before handing it to a servant on the side along with a silver banknote: ¡°Go fill the prescription. Once that¡¯s done, give it to the kitchen to simmer and then bring it over when they¡¯re finished.¡±


    The servant saluted and then left.


    Imperial Physician Zhang had received Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s order and also departed from Wo Xue Pavilion.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi sat at the bedhead with an icy expression. It was like he had not seen Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s actions and he turned his head to the side. But upon seeing Ruan Zi Xu, his eyes flared with hatred: ¡°You are Ruan Ju¡¯s father?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu cupped his hands and bowed: ¡°This lowly one did not teach daughter correctly and has caused His Highness to suffer tremendously. Yesterday, that evil creature has been punished and her father has already been sold into the lowest-grade whorehouse.¡±


    ¡°This prince really wants to know; how did you punish that evil creature of yours?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu was stumped for words. His so-called ¡®punishment¡¯ was actually not considered a genuine punishment.


    A sneer came from Lu Piao Xiang: ¡°His Highness Xuanyuan is so concerned about Ruan Ju. Could it be love has truly taken form in your heart and you want to be her bedwarmer?¡±


    Hearing that, Ruan Zi Xu almost jumped from shock. Fearing his son-in-law had offended this noble relative of the imperial family, he hastily gave a meaningful glance to the other. Who could have imagined the latter¡¯s expression would remain calm and composed as he lifted up the cup on the table for a mouthful and savored the tea: ¡°Good tea.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi ferociously glared at him but remained silent. Against the thing he had previously done towards Lu Piao Xiang, the humiliation he had received in the Ruan clan truly paled in insignificance. It was very hard to come by that Xuanyuan Min Zhi had not reacted violently.


    Ruan Zi Xu and Lu Piao Xiang walked out from Wo Xue Pavilion and the former once again sized up his son-in-law. He was amazed beyond what words could describe. Although he couldn¡¯t figure out the secret behind him, he knew that the Ruan clan basically had nothing to worry about any longer. And perhaps, there may be many times in the future when the Ruan clan would need to rely on Lu Piao Xiang.


    Madam Ruan had not been able to find Wei Rong since yesterday morning after she had woken and even her favorite third daughter was missing. No matter who she asked, all were unclear; when in fact, all were clear but just did not have the courage to say it out loud. Don¡¯t look at how the Madam manages the household; the authority of the Ruan family was still in Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s hands.


    It was correct that in Tian Chu, a man¡¯s properties and assets were handed to the wife to control, but if the clan of the groom¡¯s family was too powerful, then how could the entirety of the clan¡¯s undertakings be given out? The Emperor could not give the country to his Empress, right?


    The Ruan family¡¯s line of businesses and other assets could only be inherited by a member of the Ruan family and the heir must have an outstanding mind and a powerful drive. This was also the reason why the Ruan clan had been able to tower above the others for several hundred years.


    The assets of the Ruan family were colossal. Their lands accounted for one third of Yu Zhou¡¯s arable land, and they had over thirty stores specializing in all sorts of fields. Among them was a silk house that monopolized the market. All others who wanted to enter the silk market had to receive their goods from the Ruan family.


    When Ruan Zi Xu was heading towards Jin Se Hall, he came across his wife. The latter fiercely glared at him and starting loudly cursing him before he had even walked close: ¡°You have gone against the Heavens; your disgusting lard-filled heart has been blinded by unreasonable jealousy! Today if you do not hand over Wei Rong and Ruan Ju, I will divorce you¨Ca lowly ignorant man who doesn¡¯t know how to differentiate good from evil¨Cand have you become a monk!¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu had long prepared mentally for this moment. Perfectly composed, he walked around her to enter Jin Se Hall, exiting the reception pavilion, into the central building, advanced into the drawing room, removed his coat, and sat down by the fireplace, warming himself.


    Madam Ruan followed him inside and seeing his relaxed bearing, became increasingly furious and picked up the half-filled cup of tea water from the table, pouring it over his head.


    Ruan Zi Xu did not know martial arts and could not dodge and his head was immediately soaked through¡­¡­


    The author has something to say: Today, we¡¯ll just go with this word count. It¡¯s a little lacking so I¡¯ll add more tomorrow.


    [a] ÂíÆ¥Åĵ½Âí½ÅÉÏ, slang meaning trying to flatter someone but failing and also causing resentment

 Chapter 57

    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    Having had tea poured all over his head by his wife, both water and tea powder dripped across Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s face and he became infuriated. His eyes flashed with a rage that could not be restrained and he pointed at Madam Ruan, angrily shouting: ¡°You¡¯re crazy. For a filthy product from the red district, you don¡¯t even care about your family anymore and still dare to mention your Ju¡¯er. It was precisely your evil creature that nearly caused my family to be ruined and homeless.¡±


    ¡°Do not point your finger at me.¡± Madam Ruan slapped her Husband Lord¡¯s finger away. Her ire increased and her eyes seemed as if flames would spill forth: ¡°My Ju¡¯er making a mistake, only I, her mother, can discipline her. Even that spring onion, you need to mange. Who do you think you are?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu was even more outraged: ¡°Whose family¡¯s Master am I? All of your food, drinks, expenses, poison are all provided by me. To dare harm my child, I will let them see a good play!¡±


    ¡°So many years have gone by, yet you¡¯ve eaten the wrong medicine today. Have you let your conscience been eaten by a dog, ya? Who is it that day and night painstakingly serves you, and takes care of your family? You do not appreciate your wife¡­¡­¡± Madam Ruan picked up a Guan porcelain arabesque teapot from the table and threw it on the ground. With a great pa, pieces flew in all directions: ¡°You old fart with nothing to do decides to pick a quarrel. Hasn¡¯t Zhu¡¯er¡®s child been born and is living well? Yu¡¯er is also well. How had they met with disaster? Why in the world have you gone insane?¡±


    ¡°I see it is you that has gone insane and have exhausted your capability as a wife. You spoil a fickle courtesan regardless of the law and of natural morality and have set my Ruan clan to also have bad luck.¡± The volcano that had laid dormant over all of these years erupted at this moment and Ruan Zi Xu was so enraged, his entire face was flushed: ¡°Just because I was too tolerant of you in the past, you have gone to the extent where you increasingly are unable to differentiate good from bad. Which part of Zhu¡¯er and Yu¡¯er is worse than your evil creature? They¡¯re all your daughters yet you¡¯ve always cupped the courtesan¡¯s daughter in your hands and loved her dearly. Since they were small, how many times have you held my two daughters? How many times have you given them your smile? I just don¡¯t understand, how could that disaster that is so insolent and bossy, so unruly and headstrong, be able to enter your eyes? I won¡¯t talk about how she almost caused my daughter her life, but she even dared to imprison an imperial prince! Me not handing her over to His Highness to be put to death by a thousand cuts is already not letting you down. What was that? You want to divorce me? No need to be troubled, you can take your group of concubines, bedwarmers, and children with you and leave my Ruan home today, right this instant. I, Ruan Zi Xu, am not qualified.¡±


    ¡°You old fart, I¡¯ve troubled you! If you don¡¯t find me pleasing, then you should¡¯ve long said so, ah! I will leave to avoid being a thorn in your side!¡±


    ¡°If you are leaving, take your group of concubines, bedwarmers, and children entirely away, my Ruan family will not retain all of you.¡±


    Madam Ruan was so full of enmity she put both her hands on her hips: ¡°You have no sense of shame and are so capricious and stubborn. Not retaining is not retaining, who cares?! Tomorrow we¡¯ll scatter!¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu impatiently waved his hand: ¡°No need for tomorrow, you can leave right now. Take all of your people with you. You must not take a single thing of my Ruan clan¡¯s. Silver banknotes, land deeds, real estate deeds, if you take a single one of these then you are shameless. Steward Yang, prepare a carriage¡­¡­¡± He strode to the doorway and loudly shouted.


    Madam Ruan spat: ¡°You smelly old fart, who cares about your small amount of money?¡±


    A small attendant standing by outside the door hurriedly ran over: ¡°Has Master forgotten? Steward Yang went to the capital yesterday and has yet to return.¡±


    ¡°Hurry, hurry, your family¡¯s Madam is returning to her parental home. Quickly go prepare a carriage and let Xiao San Zi go to each courtyard and inform Third Concubine-Father, Fourth Concubine-Father, Fifth Concubine-Father and their children, and also that bedwarmer called Mei Yue, call all of them over. If you want to scatter, then scatter. It is impossible to resolve this now.¡±


    Not even two quarters of an hour later, over ten people had gathered in the courtyard of Jin Se Hall. All of them were Madam Ruan¡¯s secondary husbands, bedwarmers, and all of their children. The youngest was only three or four years old and was still wearing split pants[a] and being led by a secondary husband.


    Ruan Yu had hurriedly rushed over after hearing the news. Seeing the husband and wife pair standing in the courtyard in a state of mutual hostility, she had no choice but to try to mediate: ¡°Pa, Ma, you are both getting older. Don¡¯t make a fuss anymore, all right? Each of you cool your temper and give each other a smile to put this behind you. You¡¯ve been married for so long yet are letting others see such a joke.¡±


    The husband and wife stood at the ends of the courtyard¨Cone in the west, one in the east¨Cboth of them with stiff faces; neither of them willing to lower their head.


    Ruan Yu scampered to Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s side and pulled on his arm: ¡°Pa, you are a man. Be a little more magnanimous and make up with Mother?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu snorted and turned his head aside.


    Helpless, Ruan Yu then walked over to Madam Ruan¡¯s side, hugged her arm, and gave her a fawning smile: ¡°Ma is the best. Don¡¯t lower yourself to argue with Pa and follow daughter in returning to the room and rest. Look towards the new year; at that time, Ma will still need to work hard and look after us, hmm? It also won¡¯t be too late to return to maternal grandfather¡¯s place then. Once the year is over, Yu¡¯er will return to the capital with you for a visit.¡±


    Madam Ruan started loudly crying and clung to her daughter as if she had just found a pillar: ¡°Yu¡¯er, you don¡¯t know how vile that old thing is to actually go as far as to sell your Second Concubine-Father to a brothel. Reportedly that same night, even your Third Sister was also sent to a poor farmer¡¯s family outside the city. That family has seven brothers who are all of peasant-birth; how poor must they be? That old guy has no sense of shame and even wanted to conceal it from me. If it wasn¡¯t that Jia¡¯er had brought it up with me, then Mother would still be kept in the dark!¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu coldly gazed at Wei Jia from among the group of people: ¡°If you understand how to complain of the injustices towards your own family and you little boy have at least a little bit of backbone, then leave my Ruan home and use the money you have personally earned to redeem them. I will accommodate you then. At the moment, you are being raised by me and thus do not have the right to oppose me.¡±


    Wei Jia hung his head. Shame and resentment emerged in the corner of his eyes while his two hands unconsciously clenched into tight fists.


    Madam Ruan¡¯s anger flared: ¡°Ruan Zi Xu, don¡¯t you dare think I cannot be separated from you. Without you, this old lady can still live as well as before. Get on the carriage; get on and return to the capital, Jia¡¯er, Yu¡¯er, come with Mother. This father of yours is not a good person.¡±


    Madam Ruan called to her group of concubines and bedwarmers and strode outside while dragging Ruan Yu.


    Ruan Yu looked at Madam Ruan sadly: ¡°Mother, you¡¯re confused. My family name is Ruan. What would it be regarded as if I went with you?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu was thirty-some years old and only had two offspring that he cherished the most in his life. How could he allow Madam Ruan to drag one away? Pulling on Ruan Yu¡¯s other arm, he shouted towards Madam Ruan: ¡°Want to leave, you can leave, but do not take my daughter to suffer hardships. Now you know how to flatter, so what were you doing previously? If a mother like you did not exist, my daughter would not have suffered so bitterly and been subjected to so much fault!¡±


    Madam Ruan let go of Ruan Yu, weeping endlessly.


    The group of concubines and bedwarmers held onto their children and parcels and followed behind her while putting on a brave face. Their Head Mistress had left. If they remained, wouldn¡¯t they be bringing embarrassment onto themselves? Only Third Concubine-Father kneeled before Ruan Zi Xu and stated he was unwilling to go and may Master grant him a bit of food.


    Third Concubine-Father came from a scholarly background and had taken the imperial examination over ten times but had never passed. He was a bookkeeper in one of the Ruan clan¡¯s shops and received a wage that could be considered not bad. His two male twins were only twelve years old. If he left the Ruan family and lost the source of his livelihood, he wouldn¡¯t be able to undertake the responsibility of tuition.


    Ruan Zi Xu looked at him. He didn¡¯t say a word but it could be considered a silent acceptance.


    The fifteen or sixteen years of marriage between husband and wife noisily ended like this. After the event, Ruan Zi Xu had a bit of regrets. His two daughters also urged him to take Madam Ruan back, but he couldn¡¯t let go of his face and the matter kept being delayed.


    Ruan Zhu sometimes thought: If she had not transmigrated, she would not have encountered Xuanyuan Min Zhi; would not have been pushed to the ground by Ruan Ju; and wouldn¡¯t the Ruan couple still be living in blessed harmony?


    When the year was over, Ruan Zhu turned sixteen. After she came out of the one-month confinement period, she insisted on postpartum exercise and her waist once again returned to its former shapely figure. This body had inherited Madam Ruan¡¯s physique that was oh so delicate and exquisite, such that even after having a child, her physique was no different from that of a young lady¡¯s.


    ¡°Our Mother is not home; there is no meaning to this new year.¡± Ruan Yu complained while teasing her little nephew that was in Ruan Zhu¡¯s arms.


    ¡°They still wish to reconcile, right?¡± When the two Heads of the Ruan family had fallen out, she had still been in confinement and could not leave her room during the wintry twelfth lunar month. The two Yun brothers and Lu Piao Xiang were outsiders and it had not been appropriate for them to step in.


    However, Ruan Zhu privately believed Madam Ruan ought to learn a lesson.


    All wives would feel grateful in their hearts towards their family¡¯s man if the latter had raised a large group of secondary husbands, bedwarmers, and children for them. Perhaps Madam Ruan did not intend it, but she had unexpectedly done the worst thing possible. If she didn¡¯t wound her principal husband¡¯s heart, then they wouldn¡¯t have fought to separation, right!


    ¡°Ruan Ju was really wed out by Pa to a farmer¡¯s family with seven sons that lives outside of the city?¡±


    ¡°The same day Wei Rong was sold off, Pa gave five hundred taels of silver to the seven farmer brothers for them to throw Ruan Ju into a carriage that same evening and take her to their old Tree Village outside the city. That same night, they had hastily kneeled and gotten married. However, the servants have whispered that the day Mother left home, she passed through Tree Village to save her daughter with threats and bribes. But those seven brothers remained firm and were unwilling to give Ruan Ju up no matter what, so with nothing else she could do, Mother took our Concubine-Fathers and brothers to the capital.¡±


    Ruan Zhu laughed. For men who had been bachelors for so long, occasionally having a taste of a woman must be so fresh, right! It didn¡¯t matter how much money Madam Ruan handed over as the other party may not necessarily be tempted¨Cand this was also without mentioning how Ruan Ju was extremely beautiful.


    Ruan Zhu held her son and gently pat him to coax him to sleep. She smiled at Ruan Yu: ¡°I¡¯m afraid those seven brothers have received a gem. The bad things this Ruan Ju has done are not few and this conclusion is not too terrible; she has gotten off lightly.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Sister is really confused. Ruan Ju is accustomed to eating exotic delicacies and wearing damask silk gauze. Having gone to a rustic family, how could she be able to accept that sort of bleak lifestyle? Not to mention, the short and only house they have is riddled with holes everywhere for the wind to pass through and even a brazier to warm oneself with is considered a luxury. I heard the servants say that after the seven brothers received Papa¡¯s five hundred taels of silver, the eldest brother went to a gambling house not even a few days later and gambled it all away and returned wearing only a pair of pants. At first, the people in the gambling house wanted Ruan Ju to pay back the debt but the family¡¯s brothers blocked them and swore up and down they would return the money no matter what, so the gambling house ended up not having their way.¡± Ruan Yu shook her head, sympathy across her face: ¡°I¡¯m just afraid that the Third Miss of the Ruan family bathes her face with tears everyday now, hmm.¡±


    ¡°Did Papa go a little overboard this time?¡± Ruan Zhu had transmigrated and her thinking always carried some of the morals from her first life. She had never experienced the cruel battles within a clan full of low-handed methods and two-faced minds where one frequently did not know how they had died.


    Ruan Yu sneered: ¡°If Papa¡¯s methods weren¡¯t fierce, we wouldn¡¯t even know when we had been killed by them. Wei Rong previously still understood how to fawn for some few small favors but had been spoiled by Mother these past few years into becoming increasingly without ken. I won¡¯t talk about how a slave took major advantage of its Master, but his methods have also become much more shameless.¡±


    Perhaps Ruan Yu was right! Ruan Zhu remained silent.


    There was a sound at the door and Lu Piao Xiang walked in. Entering the bedroom, he took the child out of her arms before calling for the wet nurse to enter and handed him over. The wet nurse then exited the room.


    Ruan Yu saw that there were deep feelings between this husband and wife pair and thinking there was no reason for her to stay, got up and left.


    Lu Piao Xiang walked over and securely shut the door. Ruan Zhu saw his solemn expression and hurriedly asked what was wrong, her mind full of apprehension. She thought of how he and Yun Shi Yi had left for the capital five days earlier to ask about the current battle situation.


    She didn¡¯t know what sort of methods a commoner could use to pry into imperial secrets, but she knew Lu Piao Xiang definitely had a way.


    Lu Piao Xiang did not answer and walked over to hug her, breathing in deeply her body¡¯s fresh and clean scent; intoxication in his eyes: ¡°Wife, you¡¯re out of confinement now, right?¡±


    Ruan Zhu recalled how ever since they had gotten married, they had slept in the same bed together but never did anything beyond that. It has truly been hard for him. Her face slightly red, she nodded, when her body abruptly flew into the air as her entire body was lifted up.


    ¡°Quickly put me down.¡± Since giving birth, her body was not as healthy as before and no matter how she nurtured herself, it always fell a bit short. Suddenly picked up like this, she felt dizzy and quickly wrapped her arms around him.


    ¡°Wife, how could this husband possibly put you down? I¡¯ve waited too long for this day.¡±


    Regardless of how much happiness he had obtained under her affectionate care, none of it counted as truly having her.


    He placed her on the bed and removed both of their clothing.


    He had long become familiar with her body but his soul still couldn¡¯t help but to be seized by her beauty again. He placed both his hands on top of her perky breasts. His ten fingers curved and covered them underneath his two palms.


    The woman¡¯s soft mounds were ruthlessly fondled and he lowered his head to grasp onto a tender bud and unexpectedly felt milk entering his mouth. The fragrant and sweet taste caused him to be at a loss and he swallowed.


    ¡°Why haven¡¯t you stopped yet?¡±


    He had suddenly eaten her and her cheeks were flushed. It wasn¡¯t that she wanted to admonish him; she wanted to use the method of a child drinking their mother¡¯s milk to deepen the mother and child bond. Although there wasn¡¯t enough to drink, it could still achieve the end result of the child hating to part from their mother.


    He was still sucking on the milk secreted by her breast. Being sucked by him and being sucked by her child was two completely different feelings. It was very strange, but there was also an unexplainable pleasure¡­¡­She half closed her eyes and was under a haze of fog, her body¡¯s sensitivity becoming abnormally strong.


    ¡°Nn, Lord Husband.¡± Secondary husbands normally did not have the qualification to be called ¡®Lord Husband,¡¯ but she wanted him to feel her love.


    Since becoming pregnant, Ruan Zhu had not had sexual intercourse and was simply incapable of resisting neither his enthusiasm nor his unbridled teases. Her limp body was pressed into the bed and he held her hands on top of her head, holding her wrists against each other, yet tied them together with his belt.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± She looked at him in astonishment.


    ¡°Wife does not need to do anything special as long as you wholeheartedly feel it. Relax, okay, baby.¡± Lu Piao Xiang lowered his head and kissed that pair of red lips. Sucking on that little tongue, he spent a while exploring her mouth. ¡°This husband will give you the best. The only thing you have to do is to use your entire heart and body to receive it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t, don¡¯t be like this.¡±


    How could he be like this¨Che unexpectedly used the bed sheet to suspend her legs in the air with the ends of the sheet tied to the bed frame. Never had she realized Lu Piao Xiang was actually crazy, though the knots he used to bind her with were very gentle and did not hurt at all. On the contrary, she felt a ripple of excitement.


    He laid on his stomach and examined her most secret place, his eyes completely tinted with arousal while he used his finger to gently fiddle with her two flower petals before entering inside.


    ¡°Nn!¡± She slightly twisted her body and couldn¡¯t help but to beg: ¡°Don¡¯t always use just your finger.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang lightly laughed before removing his finger and placing it in his mouth for a taste.


    Just when she felt she couldn¡¯t bear it any longer, he pressed her down¡­¡­


    The man¡¯s sturdy figure and the woman¡¯s sweet and young body intersected at one spot.


    Her most delicate flower entrance had already caused his rod to become fiery and stiff¡­¡­The sensitive body trembled; a trail of flowery liquid faintly slid out of the delicate flower cave and actually seemed to be an invitation towards that colossal staff.


    He lowered his head again to kiss her lips, the tip of his tongue sliding into her mouth in a teasing fashion.


    ¡°Oh!¡± She opened her mouth, wanting to release the moans that were hard to hold back, but the sensation of not having enough oxygen became increasingly apparent. In the split second where she wasn¡¯t paying attention, one of his arms tightly held her body while the other had already moved into position between them. Grasping onto his member, he moved forward and directly entered.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Because both of her hands were tied and her two legs were suspended, she was thus unable to move. But it was like how he had said with using the entire heart and body to receive him, and the disguised love brought even more arousal that nibbled at her bones.


    ¡°Wife, you like it?¡± Lu Piao Xiang released his warm breath next to her ear and used a tender voice to speak to his wife. Just for this moment, he had done quite a bit of homework and specially bought books to study the art of bedroom affairs and knew what he should do to evoke even stronger reactions from his wife.


    ¡°Ahnn¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu uncomfortably catered to his body. ¡°A little faster.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang increased his speed and penetrated deep inside her, not holding anything back.


    He had continuously been placing careful kisses on her small face, her eyebrows, her eyes, her pert nose, her mellow and full earlobe¡­¡­His tongue extended to lap at her jaw before moving downward to lick her neck, her delicate collarbone, before finally pausing over her chest and taking a red plum into his mouth.


    Not enough, it still wasn¡¯t enough, she still wanted much more.


    ¡°Ahhh!¡± She suddenly screamed. Passion forced uncontrollable tears to flow down her face, and her bound hands suddenly rose up and locked around Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s neck, drawing him deeper into her body.


    And he had also became frenetic with all of the blood in his body suddenly flaring up with happiness and arousal. ¡°Wife!¡± He roared and continuously pounded against her a few times, his body trembling tightly as he held her in his arms.


    They mutually hugged each other like this. Only until the aftermath had gradually faded did he undo her restraints.


    ¡°That feeling was too beautiful, my wife.¡±


    The sky outside had darkened. She cuddled against his chest, her eyes sleepy and hazy, yet thought of Yun Shi Yi and focused her attention: ¡°Didn¡¯t you go together with Eldest Cousin to the capital? Why is it that you returned alone?¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang lowly laughed: ¡°He is staying in Zhen Xia Pavilion tonight, saying it is for us to have our wedding night.¡±


    A smile danced on Ruan Zhu¡¯s lips. Tonight indeed could be considered their wedding night. ¡°How did the matter you went to the capital for go?¡±


    She didn¡¯t know where Lu Piao Xiang had learned it from, but the civil war had become more intense and strained. Over ten days ago, he had traveled with Yun Shi Yi to the capital to buy a residence, saying they wanted to move the entire family there. She felt rather than the capital, it would be better to return to Lan Zhou. But the weather was still as cold as before and it would be troublesome if the child were to become sick during the long and difficult trek.


    ¡°It has all been settled. On account of His Imperial Majesty intending to move the capital to Lan Zhou, I¡¯ve discussed it with Elder Brother Yun. To refrain from spending the pointless expense under these circumstances, we did not buy a residence but rented one for one year.¡±


    ¡°Is the Red Eyebrow army going to fight their way in?¡±


    The power of the Red Eyebrow army was increasingly formidable and had reached a million troops. Wherever they went, they would open the granaries and put out grain, causing the poor common people to deeply love and respect them. The number of commoners that had joined were like a snowball¨Cthe more it continued, the more it accumulated.


    ¡°The main forces of the imperial army are currently deadlocked with the Red Eyebrow army at Cang Huang Mountain. But everyone is clear that a defeat is imminent and the only question is when.¡±


    Cang Huang Mountain was the last barrier and after it was precisely a thousand li of fertile land that was not guarded against danger. At the time she had fled north, it was there that she had met the Sun household and Xuanyuan Min Zhi.


    ¡°The imperial army is truly useless like this?¡± Ruan Zhu thought of the China in the future. Why did the feeling the Red Eyebrow army gave her was extremely similar to the Red Army where over a million served?[b]


    ¡°The imperial court has been comfortable for too long. The army is too idle, and many soldiers have forgotten how to fight.¡± Lu Piao Xiang pulled her into his arms and lowered his head to kiss her for a spell again: ¡°I have already discussed it with your father. In a few days, we¡¯ll head to the capital. We¡¯ll take advantage of the situation not yet being critical and leave a bit earlier. After a few days when martial law is in effect, it will not be easy to enter the city.¡±


    The martial law Lu Piao Xiang spoke of was the closing of all of the capital¡¯s gates and all outsiders being forbidden from entering. Because the capital was only so large, if the refugees all crowded inside, the foodstuffs and other goods necessary for daily life held in reserve would be wiped clean in a few days and everyone would have to wait to go home and eat themselves.


    Lu Piao Xiang covered her properly with a blanket: ¡°We¡¯ll stay a few months in the capital. When the weather has turned warmer, and the child has also grown a little bigger and has immunity, we will return to Lan Zhou.¡±


    During war in the olden times, the commoners all liked to run towards the capital as they were all thinking to follow the Emperor.


    Three days later, the Ruan clan packed their money, foodstuffs, trinkets, clothing, and other luggage into several tens of large and grand carriages and traveled on the road towards the capital.


    Ruan Zhu turned her head and carefully looked over the Ruan residence that she had stayed in during these past few months. It was very possible that after their departure, it would change households, such as becoming the Red Eyebrows¡¯, or someone else¡¯s family.


    It was only a hundred li from Yu Zhou to the capital. They had left early in the morning and arrived only around dusk. Fortunately, the gates had yet to close and they entered the city and reached the residence that they had rented beforehand.


    [a] ¿ªñÉ¿ã Split pants or open-crotch pants are pants without a seam at the crotch, allowing an infant to do their business by squatting without taking off their pants. These are used by infants before they¡¯ve received potty training and also eliminates the need for diapers. (Wikipedia)


    [b] The Red Army (ºìÉ«´ó¾ü) were the armed forces of the Communist Party of China from 1928 to 1937. It is short for Chinese People¡¯s Red Army, previously known as the Chinese Workers¡¯ and Peasants¡¯ Red Army. (Wikipedia) Not to be confused with the Red Army of the Soviet Union, which served a similar purpose.

 Chapter 58

    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    The residence in the capital was quite close to Zhu Que Street¨Cone could arrive there after walking for two minutes. It was a rather tastefully chosen three compound courtyard. The central building was magnificently carved and decorated; grand beyond the ordinary. It could be seen that the previous residents had been extremely wealthy.


    Ruan Zi Xu stayed in the central building with a few servants; Ruan Zhu and her husbands stayed in the second compound; Ruan Yu was in the inner compound; and Third Concubine-Father led his two sons in staying in the side courtyard.


    As the eldest daughter, Ruan Zhu had the responsibility of managing the household in the absence of the Madam of the residence. Fortunately, the current number of inhabitants in the residence was not many and the job was easily done. Switching to seasonal clothing; the everyday use of wood, rice, oil, and salt; expenses and keeping the accounts¨Coutlines for each and every one of these categories were made.


    Each day, essentially no trace of the family¡¯s men could be seen. Ruan Zi Xu led the two Yun brothers to manage their businesses and they had a great deal of things to do.


    The majority of the Ruan clan¡¯s shops in Yu Zhou needed to relocate. However, it wasn¡¯t to move to the capital but rather to Lan Zhou.


    The current political situation was unstable, with some saying the capital was defendable while others claimed the opposite. Every day, soldiers could be seen coming and going on Zhu Que Street. Some were headed towards the battlefield to reinforce the army and there were also the scattered remains of battalions that carried their wounded back in carriages.


    Lu Piao Xiang left early and returned late each day. Upon his return, he would consistently rifle through a book on military strategies that he had yet to finish reading and jot down important notes. Any trace of his figure would disappear before daylight on the next day.


    As for Xuanyuan Min Zhi¨Con the second day he arrived in the capital together with the Ruan clan, he left without a word.


    Following what Ruan Zi had instructed, Ruan Zhu took out the ledgers from the storeroom and thoroughly verified them over a span of a few days before finally straightening everything out.


    She hadn¡¯t expected the Ruan clan to be this wealthy. Not counting the gold and silver jewelry and precious stones, just the amount of pure gold and silver alone was in the tens of millions. Converted into RMB, it would amount to several hundred million!


    The several tens worth of large carriages that had been driven from Yu Zhou were actually completely filled with chests of money and other valuables. All of the profit from the Ruan clan¡¯s enormous amount of businesses that they could bring were essentially piled up in there.


    But these valuables would only stay in the capital temporarily. After a few days, the chests would be loaded onto ships personally escorted by Ruan Zi Xu. Following the Yangtze River, they would move towards Jiang Nan and then travel north up Lan River towards Lan Zhou.


    In this family, perhaps only Ruan Zi Xu was clear how much wealth the Ruan clan had. It was possible that even Madam Ruan didn¡¯t know.


    Thinking of Madam Ruan, Ruan Zhu¡¯s head started aching again. The day before yesterday, she had come into an agreement with her second sister, Ruan Yu, to visit their maternal grandparents¡¯ place together to pick up their mother. Unexpectedly, they had been found out by Ruan Zi Xu and he had stubbornly ordered the two sisters back into his courtyard where he firmly admonished them for a spell.


    Why did this pair of husband and wife care so much about their faces? There obviously was still feelings there, and it wasn¡¯t to the point where a divorce should be considered!


    Taking the ledgers with her, she walked to her own Yi Xin Residence and checked up on the wet nurse, where she saw her child was sleeping soundly. Entering the library, she put the ledgers down and started writing. The capital was full of aristocracy, and there was no lack of capable people that could set themselves up against her in terms of reciting poetry. She felt somewhat inferior and would spare some time every day to practice calligraphy. Fortunately, she had spent a few years studying it in her previous childhood and after a month of practicing, there was already some improvement.


    After half a sichen, her hand was sore. Placing the brush back in the brush-wash dish, she stood up, just about to return to her room for a nap.


    Lu Piao Xiang walked in from outside and was surprisingly clad in gorgeous official robes. Added with his tall and handsomely bright appearance, all who looked at him would be attracted. She looked at the musical score before his chest¨Cit was leopard print, something that was exceptionally rare.


    ¡°Lord Husband, when did you become an official?¡± To give the Head of her family some face, she called him ¡®Lord Husband¡¯ in private but ¡®Big Brother Lu¡¯ in front of Yun Shi Yi.


    ¡°Wife, I have treated you coldly during this period.¡± Lu Piao Xiang hugged her from behind while simultaneously sucked on her sparkling earlobe. His hands also moved from around her tender body to stretch inside her lapel. Each of his hands fondled a soft mound for a while before one hand moved downwards into her skirt, separated her two flower petals, and explored her depths.


    A man and woman making love in broad daylight often results in extreme arousal and delicate moans quickly spilled out of Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth as she was unable to withstand the teasing.


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s enthusiasm also became increasingly hard to bear after hearing the tantalizing sounds his wife was making. Hiking up her long skirt, he pulled her underpants to her knees, and supporting his member that had already swelled to an unbearable degree, pushed inside her.


    Ruan Zhu had been lying on her stomach against the writing desk. Her body abruptly jolted forward by the force of the insertion, and she couldn¡¯t help but to scream out, ¡°Ah!¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang was immediately smothered by the tightness and warmth of her insides and started quickly thrusting. Wave after wave of intense pleasure surged forth. Pulling her head back, he kissed her lips, his lower half becoming even more violent.


    Lu Piao Xiang was both violent and enduring. Ruan Zhu had already become limp from his attacks twice before he shouted and emptied his passion inside her.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was flushed as she nestled inside Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s arms, ¡°Lord Husband, you¡¯re not acting normally today.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang sat in the taishi chair and rearranged his wife so that she was sitting properly in his lap: ¡°His Imperial Majesty has appointed me as a fourth rank generalissimo, with the title of Zhong Wu, and has given me the reorganized Fei Sheng army to train.[a] In the future, I need to live in the barracks and will not have much time to come back and accompany you.¡±


    It was as if Ruan Zhu had seen a rare animal as her eyes widened: ¡°Fei Sheng army is Tian Chu¡¯s most elite army, right?¡±


    She had read Tian Chu¡¯s history books before and knew that the Fei Shen army was comprised of excellent troops picked out from various battalions and were specially appointed to protect the imperial family. Precisely because they were too noble, they rarely went onto the battlefield and had little real combat experience.


    Lu Piao Xiang brushed her sweat-soaked hair away from her forehead: ¡°The previously received news said the situation at the battlefield was unfavorable for Tian Chu and there was a very high chance for the rebel army to break through our defenses. Any time now, the imperial court will finish the preparations to move the capital.¡±


    Perhaps it was because she couldn¡¯t hear the flames of war, but Ruan Zhu had continuously thought the conflict was very far from her. But since now Lu Piao Xiang had suddenly become a general, couldn¡¯t she provide him with some advantageous help?


    ¡°Lord Husband, how did you become an official? A fourth rank is a very high position, right?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask these unnecessary things. Isn¡¯t your father going to transport a batch of goods to Lan Zhou in a few days? I will assign a division to escort him.¡±


    ¡°Sending the army¨Cwhere did such a large power come from?¡±


    ¡°I, your Lord Husband, still has the power to allocate two to three thousand forces.¡±


    Both his hands were roaming around her body. The feeling of her delicate torso made him tingle and his little brother that had just gone soft once again rose up with enthusiasm. He changed her position and let her straddle him. Pointing his thick staff at her secret entrance, his hands gripped her waist and pushed her down.


    The tremendous object entered her and she instinctively clamped despite his furious onslaught inside her.


    Lu Piao Xiang had ample energy and ate her three times in a row before letting her go.


    Because of him, her entire body was limp and sore, and she was even unable to lift a foot up to walk. Wiping her entire body clean, he directly carried her into the bedroom and placed her onto the bed to rest before instructing Nuan Chun to bring in the evening meal for them to eat here.


    At night, the two of them laid in bed. Lu Piao Xiang was at her side and hugging her, his eyes flashing with pity: ¡°No one knows the outcome of this long conflict, but the situation is becoming increasingly worse for us. I¡¯m afraid it may no longer be possible to defend the capital for long, but if we go to Lan Zhou, who knows how long the peace will last?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes moved back and forth as she pondered: ¡°What sort of weapons does the imperial court use? Is it that they are not powerful enough, to the extent that they have no other option against the Red Eyebrow army?¡±


    ¡°The imperial court has arms, but the Red Eyebrow army is also not lacking in them. Most of their weapons come from them breaching cities. Their troops also have many artisans that understand smithing, so forging weapons is not something that is difficult. Mo swords, trebuchets, ballistas, and all other sorts of siege weaponry are all not bad.[b]¡±


    ¡°What about gunpowder? Yes or no?¡±


    Gunpowder was already invented in the Tang dynasty and used in war during the Song dynasty. Even though history had switched to another space-time, intrinsic things would not change.


    Lu Piao Xiang disapproved: ¡°For the strength of gunpowder, you¡¯re better off with the usefulness of the ballista. The noise is only slightly less than thunder so it¡¯s possible to use it to scare people but after using it a few times, we will instead be jeered at by the enemy.¡±


    ¡°The strength of gunpowder not being high is because the formula is not correct. If you change it to 75% saltpeter, 15% of toner,[c] and 10% sulfur, then you¡¯ll have an explosion that is ten times, perhaps even several tens, stronger than before.¡±


    The ancients¡¯ way of manufacturing gunpowder was quite primitive and its power was not very strong. It was still possible to use them as fireworks, but there was a big difference in using them for war. Recorded in ancient texts was a formula: two taels of sulfur; two taels of saltpeter; and three tenths and a half of a tael of slender Dutchman¡¯s Pipe (Chinese herbal medicine, burnt coal); equaled gunpowder.


    Lu Piao Xiang was somewhat astonished: ¡°Who did you hear this from? Okay then, I¡¯ll have some of my men test it out. If it works, I will submit a memorial to the imperial court to ask them to grant you a title.¡±


    ¡°Who wants to be granted a title?¡± Ruan Zhu pushed him, her eyes moving: ¡°If some fine iron shards are placed in the gunpowder bag, its strength will become larger. After it has been ignited, you can use a trebuchet to throw it and a wide expanse will die.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang stared blankly at her before murmuring: ¡°Mix in iron shards¨Cthis idea is actually wonderfully clever.¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought about her past world¡¯s TV program ¡°Approaching Science¡±[d]: ¡°It would be best to replace the trebuchet¡¯s cowhide sling with a large metal spoon. That way, the stones can be thrown further. As for the ballistas, they can actually be changed to be simpler. I remember they require at least ten people to operate, correct? Actually, only three people are necessary. But how to improve it, let me think¡­¡­¡±


    When she had read ¡¶New Song¡·before, there was a situation where the transmigrated male lead had altered the ballista. ¡¶Chemically Engineering the Great Tang¡·had seemed to gone into greater detail but what exactly were the specifics in altering the ballista?[e]


    She must carefully think about this and then rely on her high school knowledge of physics and the theories of machines and mechanisms. Coming up with a method to improve the ballista was not hard as it only required using several basic mechanical theories, that¡¯s all.


    Ruan Zhu had a rough idea in her mind, but was using a ratchet good, hmm? Or was using gears better? Ratchets were very easy to manufacture while gears were relatively complicated, but how advanced was Tian Chu¡¯s skill in smelting?[f]


    Lu Piao Xiang had been shocked by his wife¡¯s words! He stared at her unfathomably for a very long while with wide eyes. It was only at this point that he truly understood he had unearthed this world¡¯s most precious treasure.


    Ruan Zhu was now wide awake. Reaching out to find a brush and some paper on the nightstand, she handed them to Lu Piao Xiang: ¡°I have never seen a ballista before. Draw a diagram of it for me, I¡¯ll look for a way to improve it.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang was in disbelief: ¡°You¡¯ve never seen it before yet can modify it?¡±


    She laughed: ¡°I am just trying. If it doesn¡¯t work, you can¡¯t laugh at me.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang was skeptical. Because he understood some of the mechanical theories, drawing it out was not difficult at all, and after a moment, he passed a blueprint for her to look at.


    Ruan Zhu studied the diagram for a while and discovered that it was rather simple to modify the necessary areas. She lowered her head in concentration for long time before handing the adjusted drawing back to him.


    She had drawn different improvements based on both rackets and gears and pointed at them along with the places where they should be installed while explaining it all to him.


    The power of large-scale ballistas were matchless with one round being able to fire out hundreds of bolts. If over a hundred ballistas were to open fire at one time, the scene of over ten thousand bolts firing at once would be a magnificent sight to behold. But operating these machines would be equally inconvenient as over a dozen soldiers would need to align their thoughts together for it to work.


    Ruan Zhu had altered it so that each ballista only required three people to work in tandem. Not only was the operation simple, it also saved a lot of effort.


    Lu Piao Xiang was naturally intelligent and understood her meaning after she went through it once.


    He was overjoyed and grabbed his wife for a fierce kiss. There was a voice from the bottom of his heart: Emperor-Father and Empress-Mother, didn¡¯t you worriedly insist that a commoner wife could never match up to your noble son? On the contrary, I would like to show you how outstanding my wife is. Not even mentioning Tian Chu, there is no one under this Heaven that could compare.


    Because he was too excited, he kept tossing and turning in bed until he finally decided to take out the blueprint. He didn¡¯t sleep a single wink and animatedly left the house at the first glimmers of sunshine.


    The author has something to say: The word count is lacking. I¡¯ll make it up tomorrow, I¡¯m tired.

 Chapter 59

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Last night, Lu Piao Xiang was too excited, causing Ruan Zhu to also not have slept well. Squinting her eyes at his figure that had already risen, she called for Nuan Chun to enter and serve his Master the morning meal before flipping over and going back to sleep.


    Ruan Zhu would have continued sleeping until the day was bright if it wasn¡¯t for Ruan Yu running over in boredom.


    ¡°Eldest Sister, get up. While Pa isn¡¯t home, let¡¯s go bring Ma back.¡± Ruan Yu rocked her shoulder and pat it a few times before shouting: ¡°It¡¯s already this late yet you¡¯re still sleeping. Even pigs wake up earlier than you.¡±


    ¡°There are no classes on the weekend.¡± Ruan Zhu dazedly said a sentence and pulled the blankets over her head.


    ¡°Hurry and get up; ¡®the weekend,¡¯ my butt.¡± Ruan Yu tore her blankets off.


    ¡°Hah? Weekend?¡± Ruan Zhu started and sat up. She stared blankly at her before pointing a finger in her direction: ¡°You¡¯re a transmigrator; who are you? Quickly come out from inside, otherwise I¡¯ll pour black dog¡¯s blood all over you.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Sister, you¡¯ve gone insane.¡±


    Ruan Yu picked up a pillow and swung it at her head. Luckily, Ruan Zhu¡¯s pillow was different from the ones typical of this era and was filled with cotton, or else she would not have avoided sustaining an injury. Although the pillow was not heavy, it was still able to hit her into wakefulness. She dazedly looked at her second sister. Thankfully, she was still normal. She then lowered her head and looked at herself. Last night after she had finished messing around in the study with Lu Piao Xiang, they had returned and changed into pajamas. If they had messed around in bed, then they would have simply gone to sleep right after.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er, in the future when you want to enter my room, remember to knock.¡± Ruan Zhu stretched: ¡°Leave first, I want to change.¡±


    Ruan Yu scoffed and said disdainfully: ¡°It¡¯s not like I don¡¯t know what¡¯s on your body. We used to bathe together when we were little, hmm? What are you now pretending to be pure for when you have already become a mother? Hurry up and get ready, we still have to bring Mother back.¡±


    ¡°I got it.¡±


    One sichen later, Ruan Zhu was ready. Because she was going to her nominal maternal grandparents¡¯ home, she did not want to lose face and intentionally dressed up. Her upper body was attired in emerald green floating Su silk that was threaded with gold, while a trailing skirt with scattered pink daffodils and green leaves was on her lower half. The slender and delicate waist was bound by a jadeite brocade belt with a purple border and on the side of her midriff hung a crescent mutton-fat jade.


    Her hair had been coiled by Nuan Chun into a suiyunji.


    Her hair had been coiled by Nuan Chun into a suiyunji and an emerald jade hairpin had been inserted, reflecting a face that was like a hibiscus with a pair of sparkling phoenix eyes and spotlessly white skin that was like a freshly peeled egg. The mesmerizing small mouth was like a just-bloomed plum blossom and a pair of small dimples were symmetrically placed on either sides of her cheeks. With a faint smile, these dimples would faintly appear, making her as lovely and cute as a fairy.


    As the weather was still a little cold, she draped a brand new arctic fox fur cloak lined with pink satin over her shoulders, and the lotus flower stepped out of her room.


    Ruan Yu had also changed clothes. Her long hair was bound by a hairpin and an indigo satin long gown with tight sleeves was on her body. On her feet were a pair of delicate and small moccasins and her entire outfit was like her temper¨Call fresh, relaxed, and in order. She looked Ruan Zhu up and down a few times: ¡°Eldest Sister, it¡¯s hard to imagine but you actually look rather good after dressing up.¡±


    Ruan Zhu wanted to curse as her words made it seem like she looked unsightly when not dressed up.


    Two carriages had already been prepared in front of the residence. The two sisters boarded the leading carriage that was decorated and of red mahogany while their male attendants boarded the second one.


    The coachmen urged the horses forward and they ambled along Zhu Que Street. Passing the most flourishing areas, they gradually went further away from that section. After winding through several streets, they entered a grand and broad alley. It could be seen that honorable families lived in this district.


    Based on what Ruan Zhu knew, her maternal grandfather was a seventh-rank military official and had led troops against bandits in his younger years; he was one with a bit of skill. One day, he had saved a traveling merchant that was Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s father, which was precisely Ruan Zhu¡¯s paternal grandfather. Thus, a betrothal was formed between their two children and the Ruan Zi Xu with such abundant ability wedded a lioness and brought her home.


    The coachmen stopped the carriages in front of a residence¡¯s entrance.


    Nuan Chun walked over to support his Master in getting off the carriage. He hadn¡¯t yet advanced to announce themselves at the gate when the courtyard door was suddenly flung open and several men and women were driven out from inside. An elderly man with anger evident on his face swung a large broom in his hand at each of the men.


    Soon after came an elderly woman who held several parcels and threw them at the woman with a petite figure. Once she had thrown everything, she crudely berated them: ¡°An entire group of useless and destitute beggars. You have all ate for free and stayed for free and should have long left!¡±


    The old man used the broom to sweep the men outside, then helped the old woman inside before tightly closing the door with a clatter.


    The petite figure picked up the parcels while swearing: ¡°Aren¡¯t those old farts still spending my Ma¡¯s money? What sort of things do you believe you are? If my Ma hadn¡¯t spent silver to redeem your house back, you¡¯d both long have been sleeping on the streets. Wanting to kick me out of the house while my Ma isn¡¯t home, this aunt is telling you it¡¯s impossible! Later when my Ma returns and I tell her what happened, she¡¯ll sort out both of you old farts.¡±


    Whose family¡¯s woman was she to make such an unreasonable scene in the middle of the street without even a single bit of etiquette?


    Ruan Zhu had just muttered that to herself, but she didn¡¯t expect that the female was actually Ruan Ju! The clothes on her body were very gorgeous, but it was obvious they were a little big and that she was wearing someone else¡¯s clothes.


    Ruan Zhu and Ruan Yu were standing in front of the carriages. Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing were afraid the other group would offend their Master and carefully stood by her side.


    Ruan Ju at this time saw the two sisters. Upon seeing their expensive and noble clothing, her originally indignant expression became so angry her entire face flushed red, and her beautiful facial features immediately distorted. Throwing the dirty parcels in their direction, she shouted: ¡°We are all Ma¡¯s daughters so why is it both of you can eat well and clothe well while I have to actually live like a beggar!?¡±


    Nuan Chun caught the packages that had been thrown in Ruan Zhu¡¯s direction and quickly cast them to the ground.


    Ruan Yu did not buy her words and coldly responded: ¡°Because we are Pa¡¯s daughters. You are not.¡± With this girl¡¯s aloof attitude, there was a sentence left unsaid¨CBecause my Pa has the ability to earn large sums of money whil your Pa only knew how to use his fox charms to fool around with women.


    But Nuan Chun did not care who it was and spoke out the thoughts in his Master¡¯s heart. He coldly snorted: ¡°Your Pa is earning money for you in a whorehouse, hmm? You should go there to look for him!¡±


    Ruan Ju shrieked: ¡°By no means is that filthy and shameless thing in the whorehouse my Pa. I am Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s daughter; I have always had the ¡®Ruan¡¯ family name.¡±


    ¡°There has always been affection between the Ruan family members, but I fail to see where you resemble that at all?¡±


    ¡°You are a lowly dog slave. To dare speak this way to this miss, you truly are bold.¡±


    ¡°Younger Sister Ju!¡± Wei Jia walked out from a side door and stopped in front of Ruan Ju, handing over a small bag of silver: ¡°This is the several tens of taels of silver I have saved up. Take it to use. If it¡¯s not enough, Elder Brother will think of a way.¡±


    Disdain appeared on Nuan Chun¡¯s face: ¡°Isn¡¯t this all my Ruan family¡¯s silver? Seems you¡¯re just as courageous and forceful in setting up the members of the Ruan family as you are in using the Ruan clan¡¯s money.¡±


    Wei Jia widened his eyes in a glare and shouted: ¡°Dog slave, aren¡¯t you just a dog raised by the Ruan family? What qualification do you have to address this young master?¡±


    Nuan Chun laughed, blinked his eyes, and then smoothed the small mustache above his lip: ¡°I am precisely a dog and one that understands to be thankful for eating my master¡¯s food; unlike some people who, after eating master¡¯s food, turn around and bite them.¡±


    Wei Jia was so angered, his entire face was ashen.


    Ruan Zhu looked at Nuan Chun¡¯s comical appearance and finally realized to her surprise, he had long become an adult and his stubble was actually very distinct. She thought in her mind: Tomorrow, she¡¯ll tell him to shave, for men indeed looked better when they were all clean and refreshed. She also should say a few words in reprimand to stop him from continuing to speak nonsense. If he offended Wei Jia, Madam Ruan would surely be hopping mad. It was more important to handle the business they came here to do.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, go knock on the gate.¡±


    Nuan Chun knocked for a while but did not hear any activity of the door moving, thus he forcibly pounded on it a few times. A voice could be heard from inside scolding: ¡°What are you knocking for? Looking for trouble in broad daylight, ah?¡±


    The two vermilion painted gates opened and the same old man waving the large broom walked over again, curses still spilling from his mouth: ¡°This old man will beat you dirty things to death. Eating and staying for free and even steal this old man¡¯s silver to gamble. Truly worthless animals with rotten hearts.¡±


    ¡°Maternal grandfather, I am Yu¡¯er. How could you casually hit someone?¡±


    One couldn¡¯t see when Ruan Yu had moved her hands, but they reached forwards and grabbed onto the broom, before pushing it to the side and neutralizing the old man¡¯s strength. She laughed: ¡°Maternal grandfather, you¡¯ve been promoted and gained wealth. Fortune has come upon you so what are you doing wielding a broom like a pike for?¡±


    Ruan Zhu walked over to bow in respect, the corner of her mouth lifting in a smile: ¡°Maternal grandfather.¡±


    The old man stared blankly at them before joy spread over his face: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, Yu¡¯er, when did you two sisters come to the capital? It¡¯s to take your Ma home, right? I don¡¯t even know what happened between your Pa and Ma; they¡¯re already this old but still make this old man worry so much. If it wasn¡¯t that the imperial court was currently in war, I would have long gone to see you in Yu Zhou. Aiya, quickly come inside and sit.¡±


    The two sisters followed the old man inside to the courtyard, but Ruan Ju also ran inside behind them.


    ¡°I am also your maternal granddaughter; I also want to go inside.¡±


    ¡°Scram. A child of a man from a whorehouse dares to pretend to be my granddaughter.¡± The old man shouted his curses and waved for some servants to force Ruan Ju out before personally leading the two sisters into the drawing room of the main building.


    The vermilion red gates were promptly shut and Ruan Ju was locked outside. No matter how much she screamed until her throat was damaged, no one paid her any attention.


    ¡°You two old farts, later when my Ma comes back, she¡¯ll put both of you straight!¡± Ruan Ju pounded the door¨Cbang, bang¨C, swore for a while, and then kicked the door a few times as well.


    ¡°Younger Sister Ju, you should first find an inn to stay at. When Ma comes back, then we¡¯ll think of a plan.¡±


    Wei Jia looked at those several husbands behind Ruan Ju with a face full of disgust before turning away and departing.


    After Wei Jia¡¯s silhouette had disappeared, one of Ruan Ju¡¯s husbands walked over from behind: ¡°Wife, you¡¯ll surely lose all of that silver if you hold onto it. How about giving it to me for safekeeping? I¡¯m not Eldest Brother and won¡¯t go to some stupid gambling den.¡±


    Ruan Ju¡¯s head shook like a pellet drum and she quickly tucked the purse inside her lapel.


    Their maternal grandfather¡¯s home was a two compound courtyard paved with glazed blue brick tiles. It could be considered as not bad and they also had around ten servants. Their daughters had already married out while their concubine-born sons had all settled out on their own. There was only the eldest son of the principal husband, which would be the two sisters¡¯ maternal uncle, however he was currently outside leading soldiers in the war.


    When their maternal grandmother found out the two sisters had come, she was so pleased she personally went to the kitchen to cook.


    Their maternal grandfather selected a good tea from his collection to receive the two siblings with. The current market prices were excessively high as the tea leaves from Mount Wu Yi were currently within the area occupied by the Red Eyebrow army and simply could not be transported to the capital. As the tea route was obstructed, the people in the capital could only drink the tea from Jiang Nan. The price of that tea was not expensive, but the old man had drank Wu Yi black tea for a lifetime and was very unaccustomed to this other tea. He knew that the members of the Ruan clan had the same tastes as him. If it was other guests, he would be very reluctant to take out this tea.


    Ruan Zhu thought she should say something: ¡°Maternal grandfather, my Ma¡­¡­¡±


    Her maternal grandfather originally was in a very cheerful mood but immediately became outraged after hearing Ruan Zhu bring up Madam Ruan: ¡°Do not mention that shameful thing.¡±

 Chapter 60

    Glossary


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    Maternal grandfather¡¯s home was a two compound residence paved with blue glazed brick tiles with around ten servants. Their circumstances could be considered not bad.


    The only child remaining in their residence was the eldest son of the principal husband, which was the youngest out of all of his brothers and sisters, and was the two sisters¡¯ maternal uncle. This son had inherited his father¡¯s career and lived his life as an official; he was currently leading soldiers in the war. The daughters in the family had long been wed out and all the concubine-born sons had settled down outside. As the remaining secondary husbands in the residence could not live the rest of their days peacefully, they had been expelled to their respective sons¡¯ homes last year.


    When their maternal grandmother found out the two sisters had come, she was so pleased she personally went to the kitchen to cook.


    Their maternal grandfather selected a good tea from his collection to receive the two siblings with. The current market prices were excessively high as the tea leaves from Mount Wu Yi were currently within the area occupied by the Red Eyebrow army and simply could not be transported to the capital.


    As the tea route was obstructed, the people in the capital could only drink the tea from Jiang Nan. The price of that tea was not expensive, but the old man had drank Wu Yi black tea for a lifetime and was very unaccustomed to this other tea. He knew that the members of the Ruan clan had the same tastes as him. If it was other guests, he would be very reluctant to take out this tea.


    Ruan Zhu thought she should say something: ¡°Maternal grandfather, my Ma¡­¡­¡±


    Her maternal grandfather originally was in a very cheerful mood but immediately became outraged after hearing Ruan Zhu bring up Madam Ruan: ¡°Do not mention that shameful thing.¡±


    ¡°Maternal grandfather, what happened to my Ma?¡± Ruan Zhu saw the old man had become infuriated and felt there was a secret behind this.


    ¡°That evil creature is actually unwilling to give up on that Wei Rong in a whorehouse! The day after arriving in the capital, she wouldn¡¯t stop going from one whorehouse to another to look for him. You don¡¯t know how large the expenses in the capital are; just for this or that brothel, the price of a famous courtesan for one night is tens of taels a night, and several thousands of taels of silver have flowed down the drain just from these past few days. But at long last she has finally found him and it was unexpectedly in a place that was even dirtier than a low-grade brothel.¡± Their maternal grandfather curled his lip down, his face full of disgust. ¡°I won¡¯t speak anymore, else I won¡¯t have any appetite for this evening¡¯s meal.¡±


    ¡°You damned old man, you knew you¡¯d lose your appetite but still talked rubbish and don¡¯t even feel embarrassed to dirty these young ladies¡¯ ears.¡± Maternal Grandmother carried a tray from the kitchen on which two bowls of lotus seed soup were balanced and placed a bowl in front of each of the two sisters. ¡°It is not yet time for the meal so first have some soup that I simmered early this morning. It just so happened that there was some leftover and it is still very delicious after heating is up.¡±


    Lotus seeds could help one¡¯s body fight against various kinds of ailments and could also prevent cancer and high blood pressure; this food had these unique and outstanding effects. Ruan Zhu spooned out a mouthful and thought the taste was not very good. There was not enough rock sugar and she also didn¡¯t see any white fungus.


    Lotus seed soup with white fungus


    (and red dates + Goji berries)


    Various types of Chinese rock sugar


    Maternal Grandmother said: ¡°It¡¯s a pity that we don¡¯t have any rock sugar and the price of white lotus is enough to scare people. Yesterday, I went to the market with a servant for a look and I simply cannot afford to eat them. Ai, being able to eat lotus seed at this time is already considered not bad. I¡¯ve heard that some families only eat bran. Luckily, our house still has some white rice.¡±


    Maternal Grandfather hesitated before saying to Ruan Zhu: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, I know your Pa and Ma are currently in a deadlock and I really do not have the face to beseech your family. But you also know the shop your Pa had given your Ma as a betrothal gift has not earned much money as we do not comprehend how to do business. Now that we have met with both disaster and also war, the shop has long closed, and even this residence is almost lost. Last year, the Emperor had asked merchants to donate money but as our family could not afford it, we could only use our residence as collateral. If it wasn¡¯t that your Ma had returned to the capital and paid off some of the debt, your maternal grandfather would have gone to sleep in the streets¡­¡­¡±


    Last year, Ruan Zi Xu had also donated a hundred million taels of silver. There indeed was this matter where the Emperor had asked for donations from businessmen.


    Ruan Zhu understood her maternal grandfather¡¯s meaning. In the ancient era, there seemed to be a phrase to describe this called ¡®shooting the breeze.¡¯ Of course, she couldn¡¯t use such a term to belittle this elderly man. Relatives helping each out a little was understandable, but saying this to her was useless as she was not the Head of the Ruan clan.


    ¡°Maternal grandfather¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu was just about to come up with an excuse when all of a sudden, frenzied pounding on a door could be heard. It was extremely urgent and it seemed that something had happened.


    Maternal Grandfather had been interrupted and was so annoyed and angered his whiskers quivered. Walking into the courtyard, he grabbed the large broom before instructing servants to open the gate and immediately swinging the broom down on the guest.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were good and hastily shouted: ¡°Quickly stay your hand, Maternal Grandfather; you can¡¯t hit.¡±


    Maternal Grandfather¡¯s broom had already swung halfway down. Abruptly stopping his movement caused him to recoil backwards a few steps.


    Outside the door, a young boy was holding onto a fainted Ruan Ju. Her skirt dripped with blood, causing a ghastly sight.


    Ruan Zhu immediately understood what had happened and hastily walked over: ¡°Hurry and carry her inside. Nuan Chun, quickly go and invite a physician, run, do not dawdle. No, this kind of blood flow will kill a person. Nuan Chun, didn¡¯t I tell you to go invite a physician over, what are you still standing there for?¡±


    Nuan Chun knew his Miss had faced a similar situation back in the southern border and understood that the situation was very serious. He muttered: ¡°At that time, she almost caused Miss to become a corpse with two lives lost. This is the Heavens punishing her to make her lose her child.¡± Though he was unwilling in his heart, he did not dare to neglect his duty and quickly ran to the medicine hall to invite a physician.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Nuan Qing, did you bring over the ning xiang lu?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi was concerned about his wife, and as a precaution against any sudden mishaps, he had handed over some ning xiang lu to her two male servants for them to carry at all times. When Lu Piao Xiang knew of this matter, he had also threw in a few more bottles. This panacea that was worth ten thousand taels of gold and usually only used by the imperial court was carelessly given away by these two husbands as if they were of little value. Really now; at that time, Ruan Zhu had even chided them for being cunning and full of tricks. Who knew there would be a use for them today?


    ¡°Maternal Grandmother, trouble you to enter her room and stop her bleeding!¡± Ruan Zhu handed the ning xiang lou over to her maternal grandmother. She was loath to touch someone she hated. Personally spreading the medicine? It¡¯s still better to avoid that chore.


    ¡°She has truly sinned, oh!¡± Maternal Grandmother chided and walked inside the interior room.


    Ning xiang lou!


    Maternal Grandfather saw the three small words on the seal of the bottles and his head felt dizzy. He, who was merely a minor seventh-rank official, would have never had any opportunity in his lifetime to see the panacea of the imperial family, but it had unexpectedly been casually taken out by his granddaughter to treat a person.


    Not long later, Nuan Chun came back with the invited physician and the latter went inside the room to diagnose and treat the patient.


    After a very long while, the physician came back outside, saying the child could not be maintained, but it was still possible to become pregnant in the future. He wrote out a prescription and called for someone to go fill it.


    But it was very obvious Maternal Grandfather was extremely unwilling to fork over this money. Everyone knew that the majority of medicine was being supplied to the imperial army and the ingredients sold by the pharmacies were limited; thus, however much they wanted to ask for was however much they sold it for. Last month, a favored concubine next door had become ill and the family had spent almost all of their savings. If the principal husband had not hurriedly concealed their wealth in the end, that family would long have nothing to eat or drink.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, go fill the prescription.¡± Ruan Zhu handed the prescription to Nuan Chun. Currently, all of her things were being guarded by him, and his hands were full of money.


    ¡°Miss, you are truly kind. When you were pushed down by her and your life was in critical danger, I am afraid I did not see her being as diligent.¡±


    ¡°You are not going; is that correct?¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s voice was chilly.


    ¡°How could I have the nerve?¡± Nuan Chun took the proffered prescription and trudged outside.


    ¡°Eldest Sister, I think what Nuan Chun said made some sense. Ruan Ju is pitiful and we ought to save her, but do you really not bear any grudges against her?¡± Ruan Yu moved closer, her eyes filled with questions and doubt: ¡°Don¡¯t forget she nearly killed you.¡±


    ¡°I am not thinking of her as Ruan Ju; I am thinking of her as a woman that has just miscarried and almost died.¡± Ruan Zhu rolled her eyes at her. Even if she saw an unknown woman almost dying on the streets because of a miscarriage, she would still help her.


    The two sisters spoke for a little longer. At this time, Wei Jia returned. After hearing what had happened, he burst into his little sister¡¯s room and was kicked out by his grandmother that was busy inside. With a turn of his head, he saw Ruan Zhu and glared at her with a gaze full of hatred and slowly said: ¡°Now are you satisfied? Are you happy?¡±


    A sneer formed at the corner of Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth: ¡°I looked into my heart and saw no shame.[a] If you are referring to all of you being kicked out of the Ruan residence, I¡¯ll send you one line¨Cyou deserved it.¡±


    Ruan Yu cursed: ¡°A person without a conscience. Fancy that all of you freeloaded in my Ruan family for all of those years and were raised up by my Pa¡¯s money, yet as a result, not only do you wrongly accuse my Pa of poison, you also nearly killed my elder sister. Now, my eldest sister has saved your little sister¡¯s life and didn¡¯t even ask you to give thanks, but in spite of all of that, you can still twist words and force logic[b] and say these shameless things. Where has all the studying you¡¯ve done on the teachings of the saints at the academy gone to?¡±


    Maternal Grandfather had long thought this pair of brother and sister were extremely displeasing to his eyes and coldly sneered: ¡°What sort of good people could possibly come from being raised by such a contemptible man? Perhaps he will be the same as his Pa and become a brother in a brothel.¡±


    Wei Jia was infuriated and flames burst from his eyes.


    ¡°Master, Eldest Miss has returned and is just outside the door. Should we open the gates?¡± A servant came in to report.


    ¡°Shameful thing, you even let her son inside so how could you keep the Eldest Miss outside when she returns?¡± Maternal Grandfather scolded.


    ¡°That is not it, Master. Eldest Miss¡­¡­Eldest Miss has brought that person back. You have said before that if she dares to bring that person back, she is forbidden from entering the residence.¡±


    ¡°Papa has returned.¡± Wei Jia shouted and ran outside.


    ¡°Little bastard, if you dare to defile my door with that disgusting slut, you can immediately get out.¡±


    Maternal Grandfather chased him to the courtyard, but Wei Jia had already opened the main gates and a Wei Rong supported by Madam Ruan appeared in front of their eyes. The seductive man from two months earlier had withered, and those two large eyes that could hook onto one¡¯s mortal and immortal souls had also lost their light.


    Madam Ruan saw her father blocking the doorway and with her son, supported Wei Rong, one right, one left, to sitting down on the steps. Who could have imagined Wei Rong would immediately let out an anguished wail as soon as his buttocks hit the ground. His body askew, he sat on only half of his butt.


    ¡°Rong, is it very painful?¡± Madam Ruan¡¯s eyes were full of concern: ¡°Later when I invite a physician to look you over, it will no longer hurt.¡±


    ¡°Pah! Which family¡¯s physician would blind their eyes to see this slut?¡± Revulsion spread across Maternal Grandfather¡¯s face. He felt disinclined to look at Wei Rong again and bellowed with rage at his daughter with a cold and overcast face: ¡°You bring home any and all filthy scumbags that reek of sex; where do you place this old one¡¯s face? If you are lacking men, I will buy several clean bedwarmers for you. Forget about how leading this slut into my home will cause the neighbors to mock me, but if Ruan Zi Xu comes, what will you have me do?¡±


    Madam Ruan also became angry: ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me spending my own money to bring a man back home? I just like him and am very happy when I am with him. Only he knows to be tactful and knows how to do things to make me happy. I want to be happy; what¡¯s wrong with that?¡±


    Maternal Grandfather rained curses down: ¡°You immature thing, to bring back something (a boytoy) that has been played with by who knows how many men and covered head to toe with shameful and disgusting illnesses. If you dare bring this slut into my home, I will no longer recognize you as my daughter!¡±


    ¡°Not recognizing is not recognizing; who values that?! I¡¯ll take Wei Rong and leave.¡±


    ¡°Ma, Ruan Ju has miscarried and is currently lying down in a room. Right now, it is unclear whether she is alive or not. If you do not care about her, then you should leave Maternal Grandfather¡¯s home right now!¡± Ruan Zhu pulled Ruan Yu outside. Bowing before their maternal grandfather, she turned and headed towards their carriages.


    Nuan Chun had not yet returned from filling the prescription, but she did not intend to stay and wait any longer.


    Nuan Qing came over and opened the carriage door before helping the two Masters inside. Inside the carriage, Ruan Yu¡¯s eyes were filled with reluctance and she made to push her head outside for a look, but was stopped by Ruan Zhu, who reached over and pulled the window closed before lowering the curtains.


    By no means did she cherish this sort of mother with no sense of responsibility. There was no affection at all for the other inside her.


    The coachmen had received their instructions. Calling out to the animals with a swing of the whip, they headed out of the alley.


    When they returned home, Little Zhi Xi had just woken up. The little guy was only two months old but could already recognize people. Seeing her walk in, his big eyes spun.


    Ruan Zhu picked up her son and undid her lapel to let him nurse. As she watched his small mouth suck out one mouthful at a time, happiness filled her entire heart.


    Unfortunately, she ran out of milk when her son was only half-full and had to hand him over to the wet nurse to continue feeding. Seeing her own son drinking others¡¯ milk, she felt jealous. If it wasn¡¯t a difficult birth and she hadn¡¯t lost that much blood, then this scenario where she lacked milk wouldn¡¯t occur.


    There was some resentment towards how vicious and impudent Ruan Ju was, but she also couldn¡¯t not save the other after seeing her all covered in blood.


    Ruan Zhu forced a bitter smile. Even if I saved her, she may not necessarily thank me. But why should I need her thanks, hmm? I did it for peace of mind and in a few years when these memories are recalled, at least there will be no regret.


    During the meal in the afternoon, Nuan Chun returned and stood by Ruan Zhu¡¯s side, reporting all the details.


    ¡°I returned with the filled prescription not long after Miss had left. The elderly Master had some servants escort and guard our family¡¯s Madam inside. But our Madam continued to make a fuss, causing all of the neighbors to hear the noise and come outside to see all the bustle. Humiliated, the elderly Master drove our Madam out of his house in an angry breath. Third Miss was also lifted outside by some servants and Young Master Wei Jia was also kicked out on the spot by the elderly Master. Afterwards, our family¡¯s Madam hired a carriage and left with them all onboard.¡±


    Should she disclose this matter to Father? Ruan Zhu deliberated for a while and decided to forget it. Madam Ruan¡¯s husband had been given a green hat to wear, and that was that, but this hat was too large and full of vitality and had stolen all of the safflower¡¯s nutrients, making everyone uncomfortable. Ruan Zi Xu enduring for all of those years was already pathetic enough.


    Some people just lived life too comfortably. When clothes come, stretch out one¡¯s hand; when food comes, open one¡¯s mouth. They gorged themselves on lust and staying warm, and on the contrary, became less understanding of the true meaning of life. Now that Madam Ruan has left Maternal Grandfather¡¯s residence, Ruan Zhu would wait and see how she continued to live.


    Without going through the wind and rain, how could one greet a rainbow? Only after experiencing the other not caring whether you lived or died would the proud and frosty arrogance become disillusioned.


    ¡°You can withdraw and rest. Instruct everyone below to not transmit what happened today to Master¡¯s ears.¡± When she returned, she had already instructed the servants that had accompanied them and she now said it all again to Nuan Chun.


    At night, Ruan Zi Xu led his two son-in-laws home, but Lu Piao Xiang did not return. It was assumed he was putting in extra effort in researching the idea that Ruan Zhu had given him and was unwilling to set time aside to rest.


    Inside the bathroom in Yi Xin Residence, a large bathtub was placed. The water was exactly thirty seven degrees, and the three people sat inside it with room to spare.


    Sandwiched between the two men, Ruan Zhu straddled Yun Shi Yi¡¯s legs, allowing that solid member inside her to twitch arbitrarily and causing her to moan tenderly without pause. Behind her, Yun Shi Wei gently stroked all over her body. Turning her head around, he obsessively kissed those captivating red lips, forcefully sucking on her tongue and her flavor.


    When it was Yun Shi Wei¡¯s turn, she kneeled down between Yun Shi Yi¡¯s legs so that she was face-to-face with him, allowing Yun Shi Wei to enter from behind.


    ¡°Oh!¡± She screamed. That hard staff entered her body from the back and relentlessly thrust inside her. Her chest also felt sore as Yun Shi Yi had attached himself at her breast and was sucking down mouthful after mouthful of her milk.


    Tightly squeezed between the two men, experiencing this 3P brought about extreme pleasure as well as extreme happiness.


    Early the next morning, Ruan Zi Xu led the two Yun brothers in packing everything in the storeroom into chests before leaving. Ruan Zhu shed tears as she bid them farewell.


    Lan Zhou was so far away. Separating like this, perhaps it would be much later before they could meet again, right? At that time, who knew what the war would be like and whether the capital would be lost or moved?


    The words Yun Shi Yi spoke last night sounded in her ear: Wife, the child is still small so we cannot return home together. You should stay in the capital and look after the child. With Lu Piao Xiang protecting you, I am very reassured.


    Of course he would be reassured; Lu Piao Xiang was now a generalissimo, and the Ruan family was very curious about how he had assumed such an important position. Though asking was useless, all were sincerely delighted.


    When Ruan Zi Xu found out Lu Piao Xiang had allocated two thousand elites to escort him to Lan Zhou, he felt even more strongly that the other¡¯s strength was not ordinary.


    Ruan Zhu returned to her room and looked at Zi Xi. Last night, the wet nurse had not paid attention, and he had climbed out of his swaddling clothes, resulting in him actually having a bit of a cold. He was still that small, that weak; so how could he possibly be able to endure the several thousand li journey? If only it were possible for the current political situation to change for the better.


    [a] ÎÊÐÄÎÞÀ¢, idiom meaning a clear conscience


    [b] Ç¿´Ê¶áÀí, idiom translated literally above that could also mean shoving false arguments down somebody¡¯s throat

 Chapter 61

    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    The Yun brothers had gone to Lan Zhou, and Lu Piao Xiang attended to official matters all day long and only came back home once every few days.


    Ruan Zhu couldn¡¯t bear to remain idle. Besides taking care of her child, she practiced writing and learned how to embroider from Nuan Chun to pass the time. Using a war painting as a base, she started embroidering a cloak for Lu Piao Xiang. On the black fabric, she stitched a golden eagle striking the sky with outstretched wings, and with the help of a sketch, the eagle¡¯s majestic appearance and demeanor were all realistically embroidered. On the side of the cloak was also a domineering verse: Men are like steel until death, using their hands to repair the cracks in the sky.


    When Lu Piao Xiang received it, he was exceedingly fond of the cloak and showed it off the very next day. Just as he returned in the evening, Ruan Zhu was in the living room, learning how to cut fabric from Nuan Chun. The weather was gradually becoming warmer, and she planned on making her child a onesie with a split pant as that would prevent the upper garment from separating from the trousers when he was being held by someone.


    During the time she had gone to the southern border with Yun Shi Yi, she had bought white cotton cloths on the way back, and a few days ago, she had gone to a dye workshop to stain them in beautiful colors.


    Cotton cloth was soft, very absorbent, and also beneficial to the skin¨Cperfect to make clothing for children with. Picking out a light blue dyed piece, she handed it over to Nuan Chun to trim while she looked on from the side.


    Lu Piao Xiang stepped inside and saw the master and servant¨Cone asking and the other answering¨Cin a harmonious atmosphere. Nuan Chun was taller than Ruan Zhu by a head and the eyes in his lowered head as he looked at his master were filled with affection.


    Lu Piao Xiang became thoughtful as an unfathomable and strange feeling rose within him.


    Ruan Zhu saw that he had returned and her eyes sparkled with joy. Putting down the needlework, she walked over to remove his cloak and jacket before handing them over to Nuan Chun and offering her husband a towel: ¡°I thought you weren¡¯t coming back tonight so I ate ahead of time. You¡¯re hungry, right? I¡¯ll have the kitchen prepare something.¡±


    ¡°No need, I already ate in the barracks. Wife, if there¡¯s nothing important, let¡¯s retire for the night. I¡¯m tired.¡±


    The corner of Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth curved into a smile. He said this every time but would become a lively dragon and animated tiger once they got into bed, making it so that her waist would be sore when she woke the next morning. ¡°Nuan Chun, you can return to rest. These clothes can be done tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°This servant is not tired and will take it back and finish it this night so the Young Master can wear it tomorrow.¡± Nuan Chun tidied up the material, bowed to the two people, and left.


    ¡°Wife, if you like Nuan Chun, there is no harm in receiving him, all right? Whether I am home or not, it is good to have someone taking care of you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu pouted playfully: ¡°What sort of disgraceful words are you saying? Isn¡¯t my appetite satisfied? I don¡¯t have feelings between a man and a woman towards Nuan Chun and the thought doesn¡¯t excite me. Don¡¯t bring up this matter in the future.¡± She thought about how Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing had all become older. Should she find them a home of their own? But she had to hear the opinion of the two involved first as she could not force them.


    ¡°Not having is also good. While the two Yun brothers are not home, let me have this chance to have my share and then we¡¯ll see.¡± Lu Piao Xiang picked Ruan Zhu up, a smile across his entire face: ¡°I wore that cloak and many people kept asking me who embroidered it. Those great old menfolk in the military were all full of envy and admiration. After returning from the morning court, I chanced upon a court painting master. He looked at the embroidered design and offered a very large sum of money to buy it, saying he wanted to study the style for more inspiration and to form an exclusive school just for that style. Holy shit! When have I, Lu Piao Xiang, ever been short of that little bit of silver? The painting master was anxious, and also wanted to pay respect to you as his master, that motherfucker.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang had an elegant temperament and very rarely used foul language. These few days, he had spent too long in the barracks with the other military men and had caught certain bad habits.


    Ruan Zhu pursed her lips in a smile. Her design had a forceful quality that was not seen in this era, so it was no wonder that even a court painting master wished to study her work. However, it was merely that the style was different; her painting skill could not be compared to the experts of this era.


    ¡°You must not tell anyone I painted it. If everyone were to come begging for one, I¡¯d be exhausted to death.¡± When she had studied fine arts in her past life, she had been in charge of several classes¡¯ bulletin boards[a] and also did not dare go against the teachers. That had been extremely depressing.


    ¡°I, your man, am intelligent and will not say anything. I¡¯ll let them be anxious and let them be envious.¡±


    ¡°The season has changed. Either tomorrow or the day after tomorrow, I¡¯ll make a few clothes for you. If you like it, I can embroider some other things on them.¡± She thought of Yun Shi Yi and longing welled up in her heart. He was still traveling on the ship, right?


    ¡°Wife, you truly are skilled. Piao Xiang being able to have you as a wife in this life is from the good luck accumulated in my past life.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang carried her into the bedroom and stripped her of her clothes. Every time he undressed her, it would leave her without a stitch of clothing but his hands would be very gentle. When it was his turn, his clothing would be removed in two or three tugs.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking of you all day.¡± He placed her on top of the bed for a kiss and sucked on a red plum on her chest for a while before griping: ¡°Why is there no milk?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s cheeks became faintly red: ¡°It stopped yesterday.¡± Breast milk was the most nutritious during the first three months after delivery, and in any case, the amount she had wasn¡¯t enough for her child to eat. Three months had already passed, so why not dry up her milk? The process was not at all painful. Nuan Chun had filled a prescription from the medicine hall, and the morning after she had drank the boiled concoction, she had stopped producing milk.


    ¡°Unfortunate.¡± Regret was all over Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s face.


    ¡°Unfortunate what?¡± Ruan Zhu had had enough of him. Her son¡¯s food had been taken by him as a beverage to drink.


    ¡°Nothing. Having not seen you for a day, my heart felt as if it was lost and holding you just like this makes me extremely content.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make you more satisfied; how about that?¡± She smiled mischievously before slowly lowering her head to kiss the red bean on his chest. Extending her tongue, she naughtily drew circles on his chest before using her teeth to gently bite down while one of her hands pinched the other, lonely red bean; gently pulling, not being partial to either one.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡­¡± Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s vision blurred as he placed his hands on top of her chest.


    She looked towards his crotch. That area had long been raised and a drop had already spilled out.


    ¡°Wife, sit on top.¡± Lu Piao Xiang commanded her, but his voice shook.


    Ruan Zhu did not move, and instead, extended her hand to grip him, able to sense him hotly trembling in her hands¡­¡­Little by little, her head lowered and enveloped him in her mouth¡­¡­


    ¡°Ah¡­¡­Nn¡­¡­¡± At this moment, Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s heart was trembling and his body was even hotter than from just a moment ago as his member that was being sucked swelled further.


    This seductress! Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s breathing became more and more rushed.


    Ever since he had completely had her, she rarely did this sort of thing.


    He had almost forgotten this sort of pleasure; seeing her lap at him with those back-and-forth movements¡­¡­He felt so damned comfortable and his hands at her chest unconsciously increased their grip.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu cried out.


    Lu Piao Xiang hurriedly let go of her but was unexpectedly blocked by her: ¡°No, just like that; so good.¡± Ever since she gave birth, she felt that her lust and expectations were stronger than before, and her body could now also handle multiple rounds of passion in one night.


    Lu Piao Xiang continued to tease her in a rather rough manner. Seeing her face flushed from passion, it deeply aroused him. He grasped her body and turned her around, abruptly entering her from behind. The moment he felt her warmth, it was if his body had caught on fire and the speed of his thrusts also immediately sped up.


    After both of them had peaked, Ruan Zhu panted for breath and was pulled into his arms when she suddenly thought of a matter: ¡°Lord Husband, have you taken the oral contraceptive?¡±


    ¡°Why must I take that?¡± Lu Piao Xiang asked in astonishment: ¡°I¡¯ve never taken it in the past and you¡¯ve also never brought it up before.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not the same as before because menses doesn¡¯t occur when breastfeeding. With the milk all dried up, it¡¯ll come again. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll have Nuan Chun go to the yamen and boil up a bowl of it for you to drink. It must be done; it¡¯ll be troublesome if I become pregnant again.¡±


    To prevent against fake drugs and to avoid confusion with bloodlines, the imperial court ordered that contraceptives must be provided by the yamen. No matter how tight each province¡¯s finances were, they had to guarantee contraceptives were offered.


    Lu Piao Xiang gently slapped his wife¡¯s white derriere twice and faintly smiled: ¡°Isn¡¯t having children a good thing? My and Zhu¡¯er¡®s child; how wonderful is that? Let¡¯s just plan for it then. Wife, this time, give me a son, all right!¡±


    Normally, this next child would be Yun Shi Wei¡¯s but he was currently not in the capital, which was convenient for Lu Piao Xiang. Lu Piao Xiang elatedly thought thus: his childhood was bitter and he had had little to eat, but the Heavens treated him quite generously in regards to his marriage.


    ¡°How could you bend the law for personal gain?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?¡± Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s eyes were completely filled with a smile, ¡°Let¡¯s see if it¡¯s possible to have twins. Your Father has always wanted an heir; we can give him the second child to adopt.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so generous, but will your Father and Mother agree?¡± Ruan Zhu was very surprised.


    She had seen that merchant couple once before their marriage, but then it was like they were a stone sinking in the sea.[b] She had also never heard him mention them again as if they had never existed at all.


    ¡°My Mother and Father cannot make decisions for me.¡± He did not have much affection towards his own family. Empress Mother had lots of children and did not pay special attention to him, and his biological father only thought all day long of how to please Empress Mother and was neither hot nor cold towards him. Emperor Father did not treat him badly, but when all was said and done, they were still separated by blood, and he could not feel the familial bond.


    ¡°If others were to give their son up for adoption to the Ruan clan, they would certainly be assumed as coveting the Ruan family¡¯s assets. But I know you are not like that. Lord Husband, you are a mystery as you have formidable abilities and authority. Sometimes, I really suspect you are a prince that had met with misfortune and then one day you will suddenly become someone high up with ten thousand eyes focusing on you.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang laughed: ¡°I think that you are the true mystery. I¡¯ve always doubted what exactly your little brain is thinking o, as there are so many things in there that make one surprised. You still don¡¯t know, right, the drawing you provided previously has been treated as the first priority? A group of talented craftsmen in the army base were able to create it not long after you gave me the design. Not only did they make a ratchet-type ballista, they were also able to create one based on gears. A large crowd of artisans and smiths are working around and against the clock to create and install these weapons. The first batch of fifty ballistas is already en route to the battlefield at Mount Cang Huang.¡±


    ¡°That is wonderful! If we are able to block the enemy, there will be no need to move the capital.¡±


    ¡°There is also your gunpowder formula. I have also found people to make it and the power is truly extraordinary and hard to imagine.¡± Excitement shone in Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s eyes; even his voice became a little higher: ¡°Based on what you said, the trebuchet¡¯s leather sling has also been exchanged for a large metal spoon and the distance that the stone traveled was twice as far as before. For such a simple thing, why has no one ever thought of it before? And for you, a lady in her boudoir, to propose it?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was a little tired and yawned: ¡°As long as we are able to block the Red Eyebrow army, we can just live our days leisurely.¡±


    There was no need to mention to her how deadly these improvements were and how many people would die. During war, her enemies dying would always be better than her herself dying. Even if all of the enemies were completely wiped out, as long as she and all of her family and close friends were alive, then all was well. Of course, it would be the best if no one died.


    ¡°Lord Husband, I forgot to remind you to not mention the matter of me improving these military weapons to anyone else. I would like to live my days in peace. That sort of being stared at wherever one goes is very uncomfortable.¡± But only Ruan Zhu understood that it was so the Ruan clan would not discover her secret. An occasional small-scale idea was fine, but being too excessive would make it hard for others to not suspect her.


    ¡°You can relax; I won¡¯t randomly speak of it.¡± How could he carelessly speak of military secrets? If the enemy were to know of it, wouldn¡¯t it just place her in danger? One had to know that there were hordes of enemy spies in the capital, hmm?


    [a] °å±¨ is referring to the chalkboards in each classroom, I believe, where announcements/etc., are written and drawn. (Example image here) It is also the name of a Chinese social media aggregator app.


    [b] ʯ³Á´óº£, idiom meaning no response; disappeared; etc.

 Chapter 62

    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    The rainy fifth lunar month had arrived, and torrential rains poured down practically every day. River levels rose tremendously, sparking floods to occur, and it was reported that numerous buildings in several provinces had been damaged by the water. All of the disaster-stricken commoners fled and increasingly rushed into the capital, and as a result, the prices of everyday goods soared into the Heavens; more civilians lost their jobs; the number of refugees in the streets increased; and robberies also started being a common occurrence.


    The Emperor sent a decree to close all of the capital¡¯s gates as well as requiring all civilians to obtain a permit given by the authorities before they could enter or leave the city.


    With great difficulty, a clear and sunny day arrived, and Ruan Zhu had someone place a table and chairs in the courtyard, where she added up this months¡¯ expenses into the ledgers. She discovered that the expenditure number was high again and had someone bring Xiao San Zi, who managed the outside matters, over for inquiry.


    ¡°Lady is somewhat unaware, but the entire country has been plagued by overcast and rainy weather. The roads are muddy, the Chang Jiang River has flooded, and the foodstuffs from Jiang Nan cannot be transported in. The price of white rice in the stores in the capital have continuously risen to several times what it used to be, and there are many who are starving. I¡¯ve heard that several have already died from hunger. The Emperor has established a food relief center on the streets, but they only serve one portion a day. Outside, emotions have been stimulated, and I heard that if the question of foodstuffs is not resolved, I¡¯m afraid that there may be another Red Eyebrow army causing trouble.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had intermittently heard a little about the matters of people starving to death, but after listening to Xiao San Zi¡¯s words, she felt that the current political situation had been thrown into even more disorder. It seemed like the food issue was the first priority for maintaining national peace as revolts occurred precisely because the commoners had nothing to eat.


    Nuan Chun walked over with juice that he had already mixed up and offered it to Ruan Zhu: ¡°There is not much food left from what our family has brought from Yu Zhou. We should take advantage while they are still being sold in the markets to replenish our reserves. Oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and other necessities should also be stocked.¡±


    ¡°Xiao San Zi, I will write a list for you later. Go take care of each of the items on there.¡± Xiao San Zi was a servant born in the family, and all of his family relied on the Ruan clan to eat. He was naturally clever and knew how to be on good terms with his Masters, thus, they were at ease letting him handle things.


    After Steward Yang was announced, he stepping into the courtyard and bowed in greeting before placing a few account books on the table: ¡°These are what the managers of a few of the shops in Yu Zhou have sent over. This year has not been good, and they are all in deficit. There is also a shop whose workers grouped together and beset Manager Bao before completely emptying out the store and running away. That manager has sent word asking if Eldest Miss would like to report this case to the authorities?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu had relocated the majority of his businesses from Yu Zhou to the capital, but there were also some that were not easy to withdraw from. It wasn¡¯t that it was costly; they sold some local specialties, that¡¯s all.


    Massaging her temples, Ruan Zhu then wrote a letter before stamping it with the seal that Ruan Zi Xu had entrusted to her just before he left. She handed the sealed letter to Steward Yang: ¡°Go to Yu Zhou and let the managers see this letter. Tell them to cease business. If the shops can be transferred, transfer them. If not, simply giving them or throwing them away are both fine. Lower the prices of all the merchandise inside and sell them off; also provide everyone with their wages.¡±


    The current political situation was in upheaval. If profits weren¡¯t being made, why not close the shops?


    Steward Yang bowed, took the letter, and left.


    Ruan Zhu flipped open the account books he had brought. The more she looked, the more astonished she became, and she turned through the pages, her eyes bulging.


    ¡°Sister, what¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Right at that time, Ruan Yu returned from outside and came over for a look after passing through Yi Xin Residence. Seeing Ruan Zhu in a daze, she reached over to look at the accounts book herself and turned a few pages before remarking: ¡°Nothing much, ya? Why do you have an expression as if you just saw a ghost?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t think this ledger is strange?¡± Ruan Zhu pointed at one of the charts in the account book, her face odd.


    Ruan Yu gave a puchi of laughter: ¡°Hasn¡¯t Eldest Sister continuously been using tables to keep the accounts? Who are you asking? You sit at home all day so you don¡¯t know this, but nowadays, all of the large businesses use tables to keep their accounts. It¡¯s fast and simple and can be seen at a glance; many people think highly of it.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was stupefied and stared blankly at her for a moment. Why did she not expect something like this would occur? Could it be that besides her, there was another transmigrator in Tian Chu?


    ¡°I heard that the person who had come up with this format of using tables to do accounts is someone from Lan Zhou, surnamed Wang. He had earlier been muddling about in Yun Zhou, but had come to the capital because Yun Zhou had been beset by flood. After news of using tables to do accounts spread out, it caused a large sensation, and the big boss of Lu Yin Ge Restaurant spent an exorbitant amount to hire the one surnamed Wang to be his bookkeeper. However that surnamed Wang is very loathesome. Bragging, drinking, gambling¨Che does it all and the big boss of Lu Yin Ge Restaurant hates it. If it wasn¡¯t that the accounting method of the one surnamed Wang is very good, he would have long be kicked out. ¡± Ruan Yu threw the books onto the table: ¡°I¡¯m gonna ignore you now and go look at my little nephew. Eldest Sister, you should still slowly look over the accounts, okay!¡±


    Ruan Zhu dazedly watched as her second sister left Yi Xin Residence, her mind still thinking of what she had just said: Lan Zhou, surnamed Wang; could it be that Steward Wang that she had personally kicked out? At that time, had she carelessly leaked her secrets and made it so that the other had an advantage? If it truly was like that, she would really find it hard to breathe.


    Lu Yin Ge, was that it? She had to go take a look. If it was Steward Wang, then that would be whatever. But if it was another transmigrator, wouldn¡¯t that be troublesome? Based on the novels she read and TV shows she watched in her previous life, if there happened to be two transmigrators who had crossed over to the same exact period, there would usually be one that had all the bad luck.


    Ruan Zhu decided to take a look to get to the bottom of this matter.


    Lu Yin Ge was a large restaurant in the capital located in a very prime district. Their patrons were quite wealthy and respectable people, and if one were to dress too ordinary, they would be looked down upon by the other guests.


    The next morning, she dressed up. Putting on some custom ordered pieces from Lan Zhou¡¯s Ming Xiang Cui Yu, she paired them with a pink, soft smoke gauze long skirt and a soft gauze circular fan in her hand and entered the carriage with Nuan Chun in accompaniment.


    Along the way, they could see the majestic sight of soldiers passing through the streets, perhaps to patrol or perhaps to transport carriage after carriage of all sorts of supplies to the battlefield.


    Groups of raggedly-dressed civilians went begging from door to door for food. Store entrances were deserted for the most part, and the majority of shopkeepers chased beggars away, though there were a small few that provided them with leftovers.


    On the side of the street, commoners¨Cmen, women, old, young¨Chad lined up by a tent that stretched half a li. Their faces full of hunger, they shuffled along with their bowls for the yamen to ladle out some porridge.


    Ruan Zhu lifted up the curtain. With a sweep of her eyes, she witnessed a man with clean and bright attire being dragged by a few beggars into an alley, where they cleanly stripped him of his clothes and money.


    She stared for a while, sighing incessantly, before lowering the curtain down.


    The capital of the country of Tian Chu was a desolate and chaotic sight to behold. If the issue of food was not solved, how long could the capital remain stabilized?


    Lu Yin Ge was not too terribly far and she arrived after sitting in the carriage after two quarters of an hour had passed. Perhaps because it was not meal time, or perhaps they had suffered from the influence of the disaster, but the restaurant was quiet and cheerless.


    Ruan Zhu led Nuan Chun over. The waiter saw that it was a young wife dressed honorably and hurriedly welcomed them inside enthusiastically. She followed the waiter in walking towards the staircase, and when they had reached the head of the steps leading to the second floor, a crippled man relying on a cane limped down and brushed past her.


    Ruan Zhu was faintly stunned. There seemed to be something familiar about this crippled man, as if she had met them somewhere before.


    ¡°Madam, please.¡± The waiter pushed open the door of a private room for her to please enter.


    Nuan Chun ordered a few dishes and a pot of fruit wine according to his Master¡¯s tastes. Not long after, the tea arrived, and the waiter announced: ¡°It will be a little bit before the dishes and wine will arrive; may Madam please first drink some tea. The tea in our restaurant is the best under the Heavens. Others do not have this kind, and I can guarantee Madam will like it.¡±


    ¡°I heard there is a bookkeeper here that is very knowledgeable on handling accounts. Is it possible to perhaps meet him?¡±


    The waiter saw that this small Madam was very beautiful with a modest bearing and had a good first impression: ¡°Previously, there were also many customers that wanted to meet Accountant Wang, but they all became disappointed after doing so. You may ask why, and that is because this Mister Wang loves to shoot off his mouth, provoking disgust. His moral character is also not any good. He finds it difficult to remain idle, so drinks and gambles, leading astray many of our Lu Yin Ge¡¯s workers. The boss would like to fire him, as presently, many people have mastered those tables, and it wouldn¡¯t matter who we hired.¡±


    Ruan Zhu smiled: ¡°I am not requesting him to be my bookkeeper. I am just a little curious and would like to meet this person.¡±


    ¡°Well then, if Madam would wait for a little while, this small one will invite the other over. In the mornings when he has nothing to do, Accountant Wang always sneakily hides somewhere to drink, so trying to find him is a little troublesome. This small one will go ask for Madam; however, this small one would like to first say that Madam will surely be disappointed after meeting him.¡±


    Ruan Zhu laughed and did not respond.


    After the waiter had left, Nuan Chun asked: ¡°Why does Miss insist on meeting that Accountant Wang? Does Miss not also know the method of using tables to do the accounts?¡±


    Ruan Zhu knitted her brows: ¡°I suspect this Accountant Wang is the Steward Wang that I had driven out of our residence in Lan Zhou.¡±


    Nuan Chun was startled and immediately became indignant: ¡°That bastard who doesn¡¯t know how to be grateful to his past master. To have the impertinence to say Miss¡¯s tables are something that he thought up himself, he must be caught and caned.¡±


    ¡°You are currently not in your home; who do you have the right to cane?¡± Ruan Zhu insipidly said a sentence. Why bother nursing a useless anger against such a vile person to avoid losing dignity? What she currently had to do was to ascertain whether someone else had also transmigrated or not. If there wasn¡¯t, then she would be at peace.


    Nuan Chun poured his Master a cup of tea: ¡°Since that waiter has said their tea is good, Miss should have a taste and moisten your throat on such a hot day.¡±


    Taking the offered cup for a sip, Ruan Zhu became astonished and couldn¡¯t help but to take another mouthful to sample the flavor. This method of making tea was not something that could be found in the ancient era; it was the stir-fried tea method of the future.


    When she had transmigrated, she had indeed thought of stir-frying tea. But not long after, she had gone to Lan Zhou, the southern border, Yu Zhou, the capital¨Crunning from place to place¨Cand furthermore, she had also became pregnant. Since the beginning, she had not had any free time and manufacturing tea had also been delayed.


    Could it be that in this world, there really was another transmigrator?


    Suddenly, her meeting with the crippled man at the staircase flashed in her mind, and her heart shook.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, wait here for a moment while I head to the lavatory.¡±


    ¡°En, then Miss has to hurry.¡±


    It was after making some inquiries that Ruan Zhu came to know that the crippled man was a master of manufacturing tea that the boss of Lu Yin Ge had spent a large sum to hire and that he lived in the east wing of the east lateral court of the rear courtyard.


    The rear courtyard was the boss¡¯s personal residence and outsiders were generally not permitted to enter.


    She saw that the back door was slightly ajar and walked through it to the outer courtyard. To her left was the east lateral court and the gate just so happened to be wide open.


    Ruan Zhu entered the east lateral courtyard and raised her eyes to carefully look it over. The building was the sort that was more old-fashioned and should be one that was for servants to live in. She didn¡¯t see anyone, but this was also the working hours of the restaurant, causing the servants¡¯ quarters to be deserted.


    All of the other rooms were locked, and only the door of the east wing was wide open.


    Suddenly a hoarse voice transmitted from inside. Because the door was ajar, she could hear it especially clearly.


    ¡°You have crossed?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart pounded and her legs nearly went soft. After she composed herself, she realized no one had discovered her, thus they were absoloutely not speaking to her. Seeing an old willow tree by the side, she hastily ducked behind it to hide.


    She was certain that hoarse voice belonged to the crippled man. There was no indication at all; it was merely intuition.


    ¡°Passed? What passed?¡±


    Steward Wang! It was definitely him, the one who always drank and gambled in the residence at Lan Zhou and was driven out by her. He had taken her tables to show off and swindle others, deceiving them from Lan Zhou to the capital.


    ¡°You still dare to quibble? How could you not have crossed with those tables you set up?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true that the tables were thought up by me. Because I am talented, I created the tables. If you can¡¯t bear to see them, you can scram. For what reason do you know how to manufacture tea and obtain the boss¡¯s appreciation and I, your father, cannot come up with the idea to use tables for accounting?¡±


    ¡°You have crossed?¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡­¡­Zhao Hai¡­¡­Brother Zhao¡­¡­if you have something to say, be my guest¡­¡­quickly put the blade down.¡±


    ¡°You have crossed? Tell me, yes or no?¡±


    ¡°If you say yes, it¡¯s yes. Cough cough¡­¡­pass¡­¡­wear the¡­¡­wu¡­¡­¡±[a]


    Following Steward Wang¡¯s stifled voice¨Csplat!¨Can eye-grabbing bloodstain flew on top of the muslin covering the window.


    Not long after, the crippled man limped out of the side room, the blade in his hand already wiped clean of blood. A breeze brushed past, and the remnants of the stench of blood floated into the nose of the one hiding behind the old willow tree. She held her breath, not daring to even breathe or exhale. Only the thudding of her heart¨Cdong dong¨Cproved how nervous and tense she was at this moment.


    ¡°With two transmigrators, it¡¯s enough for there to only be one that knows the advanced technology of the future; the second person is unnecessary.¡± The crippled man lightly snorted. He fastened the dagger inside his wide sleeve and left the east lateral courtyard.


    Ruan Zhu heard the steps becoming more distant and waited a little longer before finally daring to come out from behind the tree. She headed towards the courtyard¡¯s gate before turning back and trotting towards the eastern side room. She mustered her nerve and walked inside; she only wanted to see if the man inside was truly Steward Wang or not.


    An elderly man sat crookedly in the taishi chair in front of the window. With eyes wide open, he was motionless and smeared all over with blood. His throat had been cut open and it was very obvious he was no longer breathing.


    He was precisely the man that had been driven out by her from their residence in Lan Zhou¨CSteward Wang. It was very likely that after he had stolen her method of accounting, he had not dared to remain in Lan Zhou, and that was the reason why he had fled to show off and swindle others.


    It could be said that his man had taken the place of her death.


    Ruan Zhu just stood at the doorway, not daring to walk inside. Just as she was about to turn and leave, footsteps sounded from outside. Quite a few people entered the courtyard, though they seemed to only be in the restaurant¡¯s main courtyard, thus they and her were separated by a wall.


    ¡°Guard all of the doors and search from room to room. If alive, I want to see the person. If dead, I want to see the corpse.¡±


    Ruan Zhu became terrified. If she was found here, they might take her to be the murderer.


    She had no time to think and could only advance forward, not retreat, and directly entered the bedroom of the side room.


    There were some broken tools and other junk underneath the bed; simply nowhere for a person to hide.


    Her graceful eyes swept the inside of the room once and only saw a long and narrow, tattered trunk next to the bed. Rushing over in a few steps to lift up the lid, she only saw that the inside was unexpectedly filled with old clothes.


    The footsteps were getting closer. She could no longer hesitate and plunged into the chest, closing the lid behind her.


    Almost at the same time, one person entered the room and directly headed to the bedroom.


    Ruan Zhu was so tense from nervousness that she felt her heart would nearly jump out of her chest. Her hands were covered with sweat and tears threatened to fall, fast and heavy. The east courtyard has so many rooms, hey, Mister, why must you choose the room I¡¯m hiding in? Do the two of us have some sort of animosity?!


    However, she had forgotten one key point. It was true that there were multiple rooms in the east lateral courtyard, but only the room she was hiding in was not locked.


    Suddenly, the trunk lid was opened and the face of a man she had met several months earlier entered her sight. But the skin that she saw was bronzed while his facial features were distinctly outlined like a Greek sculpture, and his eyes were both deep and cold.


    It was precisely Xuanyuan Min Zhi!


    Ruan Zhu muttered in her heart: This prince was truly attractive. If his skin was back to white, he could be trained and then become an escort in Japan¡¯s red district. He would also be immensely popular on the internet, and his clicks would surely give him first-place.


    ¡°Must be in the eastern side room. Go inside for a look.¡±


    The cacophony outside grew increasingly closer and headed towards the eastern side room.


    Ruan Zhu and Xuanyuan Min Zhi stared at each other; the other was stunned at seeing her. Immediately after hearing the outside voices, his face slightly changed, and he vaulted inside the chest while closing the lid. Inside the trunk became pitch black.


    Molester! Being pressed down by him, Ruan Zhu nearly choked. Feeling as if her five viscera and six bowels were going to be displaced, she rushed to push him off. A rough hand covered her mouth, and a low voice sounded from next to her ear: ¡°Don¡¯t make a sound otherwise I¡¯ll choke you to death.¡±


    Ruan Zhu hastily nodded her head. What else could she do? Her little life was the most important.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi let go of his hand and finally realized the two people were intersecting in an extremely embarrassing position.


    She was on her back facing upwards; he was on his stomach on top of her. The exquisite figure of the girl in her prime of youth was precisely under him, and her mouth was practically stuck to his. A beautifully sweet fragrance also drifted into the man¡¯s nose.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi felt somewhat dizzy. There was a slight heat in his underbelly while his pulse no longer remained steady¡­¡­


    He unnaturally shifted his head away a little. His right hand slightly moved and unexpectedly touched her soft chest. The sensation was surprisingly not unpleasant, and he squeezed a bit, causing his fingertips to become numb, and such an unspeakably carefree feeling transmitted all over his body.


    When he finally realized what he was groping, he became embarrassed and hurriedly moved his hand away.


    Ruan Zhu was in such a state of nervousness so how could she have the time to pay attention to the peculiarity of the man atop her? She tilted her ear to carefully listen to the movements outside¡­¡­The men entered the room and walked around inside, from the living room to the bedroom. There were at least ten of them.


    ¡°Sir, there a corpse here. The body is still warm so he seems to have died recently. Could he have been killed by that person?¡±


    ¡°Sir, the main house and west lateral court have both been searched. There has been no sign of the person.¡±


    ¡°There are still the inside of chests and under the bed. Have all the places where one can hide been searched?¡± A dignified and imposing voice sounded out.


    ¡°Already searched, sir, there has been no sign.¡±


    ¡°There is a trunk next to the bed in this bedroom. Go open it for a look.¡± The dignified voice commanded.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Ruan Zhu felt faint. In her keyed-up state, her hands had started sweating. When she left home today, she had not checked the yellow calendar.[b] Running into Xuanyuan Min Zhi, this death star, she just knew that misfortune could not be separated from this person. Whoever came in contact with him would definitely be out of luck!


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi tried his hardest to ignore the dainty woman underneath him. He concentrated his mind and placed his hand on top of the longsword strapped at his waist, preparing to strike as soon as the person outside lifted open the lid of the trunk.


    [a] ´© chuan, can mean to wear (clothes); to pass through; to penetrate. ´©Ô½ chuan ye is transmigration; ¡®crossing over.¡¯ The original question that the crippled man keeps asking is ÄãÊÇ´©µÄ£¿which is literally you passed (over)? Tbh, it¡¯s a very smart way to ask someone if they¡¯ve transmigrated because it¡¯s one of those things that you get it if you get it. I translated it as ¡®crossed¡¯ because I¡¯ve been using ¡®crossing over¡¯ and ¡®transmigration¡¯ interchangeably and both ¡®chuan ye¡¯ and ¡®crossing over¡¯ are two words. ????


    [b] »ÆÀú (lit. yellow calendar) is currently called ¡®Tung Shing¡¯ and is a Chinese divination guide and almanac. (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 63

    Another group of people rushed into the east side room, and at the same time the lid of the trunk was opened a tiny crack, an elderly man¡¯s furious bellow could be heard: ¡°Who are you people?! Who allowed you to come into my home and stir up trouble? You have even killed my family¡¯s accountant; simply mavericks, all of you! Xiao Wu, immediately go report this to the authorities.¡±


    The one that was called Xiao Wu responded: ¡°Yes, Master.¡±


    The hand that was lifting the lid of the trunk let go, and darkness was restored inside.


    Ruan Zhu breathed a sigh of relief and finally realized how heavy the man on top of her was. Her delicate body could not support him; her hips had all become numb, her lungs were becoming increasingly weaker and breathing was difficult.


    She thought for a moment and then supported her hands against his chest. Wanting to remove the two large thighs pressing against her slender legs, she spread her legs outwards and then bent her knees. This position felt much better. Her joints slowly moved, the stagnated blood circulated again, and the numbness gradually faded away.


    This sort of arrangement was very embarrassing as the man¡¯s lower half was entirely sandwiched between her legs. But she didn¡¯t care what it looked like as long as she was no longer being pressed to death.


    However, Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s behavior was not quite suitable. His body temperature surged, and there was a stiff pillar rising from his crotch that solidly pressed against her secret place.


    She was not a young maiden that was unfamiliar with the ways of the world and immediately understood what had happened. No matter how much each era¡¯s views shifted and focused on men who paid attention to chastity, it was impossible to prevent their bodies from reacting involuntarily.


    She remained motionless, as she knew that if she were to resist at this time, it would only make the other even more aroused.


    The conversation outside continued.


    The dignified-sounding man coldly snorted: ¡°We are under orders from the Eldest Prince of the country of Nan Ling to come to the Central Plains to arrest our country¡¯s fugitive. The so-called civilians do not fight together with the government and it is not easy for businessmen to earn money. If Sir does his best/shapes up/behaves, that would make things easier.¡±


    ¡°ÎÒÃÇ·îÄÏÁë¹ú´óÍõ×ÓÖ®ÃüÀ´ÖÐÔ­×½Äñ¾¹úÌÓ·¸£¬ËùνÃñ²»Óë¹Ù¶·£¬ÉÌÈË׬Ǯ²»Ò×£¬ÍûÀÏÈ˼ҺÃ×ÔΪ֮£¬¸ø¸ö·½±ã¡£¡±


    ¡°I was thinking which temple¡¯s God this was, but it turns out to be the small country in the southwest. Even barbarians dare to be this arrogant.¡± The corner of the old man¡¯s mouth twitched and a very disdainful voice spewed out: ¡°There is no harm in this old man telling you now¨CLu Yin Ge is owned by the Fifth Prince of Tian Chu. If you offend His Fifth Highness, none of you need to even think about staying alive.¡±


    The dignified man slightly frowned and thought for a moment before lowering his voice in a profound manner: ¡°We are doing this for you; there is an evil man hiding in your home. If he takes advantage of us leaving and commits another violent crime, it would not be good if anyone dies. The old man sitting in the taishi chair was precisely killed by the fugitive. If our criminal is able to commit such a heinous crime against one where no injustices or animosity were present, how could there possibly be mercy in the fugitive¡¯s heart for you all?¡±


    The old man curled his lip and continued with his jeers: ¡°This old man does not need you to worry about this life; you should worry about your own. If you stay here a little longer, perhaps His Fifth Highness would bring some men over. Lu Yin Ge is very close to the imperial palace, and it¡¯s possible to make a return trip on a horse in half a quarter of an hour. At that time, even if you want to leave, you would still have to ask His Fifth Highness whether he is willing to let you go.¡±


    The dignified man turned towards one of his entourage to inquire: ¡°Is it true that Lu Yin Ge is the property of His Fifth Highness Xuanyuan Zong Zhi?¡±


    His attendant responded, embarrassed: ¡°Replying to Sir, this small one does not remember. However, it seems to be his.¡±


    ¡°Useless thing, didn¡¯t you say that you had asked around and was clear on the matters within the capital?!¡± The tips of the dignified man¡¯s eyebrows flew upwards and raised a leg, aiming towards the other. His attendant did not dare to evade and was immediately kicked to the foot of the wall, unable to crawl up for quite a while.


    ¡°You all have broken into my house and destroyed my property; your courage is not small. If you must stay, then, on the contrary, it fits right into this old man¡¯s original intention.¡± The old man coldly smiled, then shouted: ¡°Someone come, fasten all of the front and rear doors for Master to come and deal with them.¡±


    The dignified man lowered his eyes and contemplated for a moment before giving a laugh ha ha: ¡°There is no need for Sir to be this angered. We have coincidentally become tired; men, follow this official in returning to have a nice nap.¡± He waved his hand toward his entourage and led the way in exiting the east side room.


    That group of men followed behind him in leaving as well.


    At last, the east side room became quiet.


    Ruan Zhu relaxed. In her nineteen total years of life from her previous world added with this current world,[a] she had never gone through such a nerve-wracking time. But wait, that was excluding the time after she had finished her college entry exams and were waiting for the results.


    However, there was another sort of tension that was creeping now into her body. Who knows when, but a pair of large hands were now twisted around her slender waist, one on each side. Ten slender fingers were tightly wrapped the waist that could not fill a palm, stroking her for a while before slowly moving upwards and grabbing her two plump breasts.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s brows were tightly locked together and indignance grew from within her heart. She wanted to struggle but was also scared that they would then be discovered by those outside, and could only uncomfortably turn her head to the side, not willing to face the one who had placed her in such an embarrassing and awkward situation.


    The old man looked at the dead Steward Wang and said towards his servant: ¡°Later, go to the funeral home to buy back and coffin to place the body in, then find a carriage to pull it outside the city to bury him in a hole. Also, do not leave behind any of his things; just drag them all out to be buried with him!¡±


    ¡°Boss, us little ones understand.¡±


    ¡°Who else is in his family?¡±


    ¡°There is no one else. This small one has heard him prattling while drunk before. His parents have long passed away, and he has been married before, but because he drank and gambled, his wife drove him out of their house and also never gave birth to a child for him.¡±


    ¡°Just do it like that, then! Drag him out and bury him. Oh right, the doors and windows that those noisy men broke¡­¡­¡± The old man disliked the heavy stench of blood in the room and also felt uncomfortable staring at a corpse, so moved to the courtyard while speaking, but still did not have the intention to completely leave.


    This could be considered safe, right? This could be considered as separating herself from danger, right?


    Later, when there was no one around, she¡¯ll slip out of the east side room unknown by the gods, not felt by the ghosts.[b] Nuan Chun must be worried to death since she hasn¡¯t returned in so long. Ever since her transmigration, the two bedwarmers had wholeheartedly taken care of her and this arrangement has never deviated for even one day.


    She had understood their hearts¡¯ desires since the very beginning but had never extended them any favor to not give them the slightest bit of hope.


    She knew her doing this was heartless, but she was already reveling in the undying love pledged by three men, the warmth of three men, and the infatuation shown by three men. Yun Shi Yi¡¯s pampering; Yun Shi Wei¡¯s loyalty; Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s wholehearted devotion¨Cthere already was not any space or thought left in her mind to show concern for other men.


    Her two soft and full mounds were still being groped by the large hands of the man atop of her, who then stretched through her clothes and into her lapel, directly touching her skin. His two hands grabbed a red plum each and pinched¡­¡­Ruan Zhu was originally full of resentment but she quickly ignited, like her body had been lit. Her entire frame quivered as if an electric current was running through it, ** stimulating all of the nerves in her brain.


    She wanted to stop him, but her body was soft and weak, and she couldn¡¯t muster up the smallest bit of strength.


    The breathing of the man on top of her became more hurried. His moist and warm pants sprayed on her neck, creating circular spots of heat around her ear, lightly teasing her.


    The tip of Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s tongue gently licked her earlobe. When he had licked enough, he moved over, seeking those delicate lips. Her mouth opened and he pasted himself over it; a sweet taste entering his lips¡­¡­His brain immediately short-circuited, and he couldn¡¯t help but to extend his tongue into her mouth. Touching that slippery and wet tongue, he promptly encircled it and sucked it into his own mouth, continuously sampling it¡­¡­


    His two hands were still fondling her two soft breasts; every knead bringing about an exquisite sensation. Numbness lingered within his body, endlessly arousing him. The object at his crotch swelled enormously and to the point where it was extremely difficult to bear¡­¡­He wanted to seek comfort in her body and forcefully pressed himself between her legs; he could feel that behind her clothes, there was a small cave where he needed to enter.


    He grinded right against her secret place¨Cextremely hard¨Cwishing he could penetrate through her clothes and send his fiery heat inside for some relief.


    He continued to push his hips back and forth at her entrance.


    Ruan Zhu ached deeply from his relentless stabs but had also become extremely aroused. If she wasn¡¯t in this sort of place, she would have immediately accepted him. But she couldn¡¯t¡­¡­There was still a corpse outside and perhaps someone may still rush inside.


    And¡­¡­and there were also three husbands that would be disappointed; no, she couldn¡¯t¡­¡­she didn¡¯t care anymore¡­¡­she must resist¡­¡­


    Ruan Zhu started to struggle with her hands and feet, using all of her strength to push him away.


    However, her attempts to throw him off only further aroused him. His kiss became fiercer, the strength in his hands increased, and the rod jabbing her underneath appeared as if it would tear through the thin material of her clothes.


    Even in the darkness, Ruan Zhu could still make out that pair of threatening eyes, blazing with passion and arousal that wanted to burn her into ashes.


    In the trunk, one man and woman were so tightly pressed together there was no gap between their bodies.


    Just when the man and woman nearly lost their minds from their burning desire¨Cright at that moment, a group of people entered the courtyard. Hearing movement, the flames in their bodies gradually extinguished¡­¡­


    The boss of the restaurant saw that this group of people were not the ones he had requested from the Fifth Prince, but were bailiffs from the yamen with swords hanging from their waists and insufferably arrogant attitudes and stances.


    ¡°Master, His Fifth Highness has left the city to train the army. This little one was unable to invite him thus went to Shun Tian Hall and invited these bailiff elder brothers.¡±


    As soon as the old man heard this, he became angry. The magistrate of Shun Tian was long a follower of the Crown Prince. However, because the Emperor was fond of the Fifth Prince, he incited frequent clashes between the two princes in the dark.


    Wasn¡¯t Xiao Wu bringing over bailiffs from Shun Tian bringing misfortune upon them?


    The bailiffs in Shun Tian Hall had mingled in the capital for a very long time now. What building, what garden¡¯s interior¨Cthey knew it all like the back of their hand, and knew who the master hidden behind Lu Yin Ge was. Constable Shen was the trusted aide of the magistrate and also knew a bit regarding internal imperial affairs. All of these people had their own masters and wanted to give them some dignity and honor.


    ¡°Elder Jia!¡± Constable Shen barked out a laugh that was neither dark nor bright: ¡°I heard Brother Waiter say there were thieves causing trouble in your Lu Yin Ge. Us brothers have come for a visit.¡±


    Although the restaurant¡¯s boss was a rather able person behind the scenes, these bailiffs could also be considered a sort of authority in the capital. Not having a face full of anger was of course the best: ¡°Thanking bailiffs for your blessings, but the matter has already been resolved. Hearing that Xiao Wu had ran to report the case, they became scared and fled.¡±


    ¡°But your property has been damaged. Would you like us brothers to go capture the thieves and punish them?¡±


    ¡°Heh heh, many thanks, but they are only a few broken windows and doors, not worth much coin.¡± The boss¡¯s words were accompanied by a smile and he beckoned to his attendant: ¡°Xiao Wu, quickly invite these bailiffs for two drinks in the second floor.¡±


    ¡°Leader, there seems to be a dead body in the east side room. I see bloodstains and there¡¯s a large puddle trickling on the ground.¡± A bailiff suddenly shouted.


    ¡°There¡¯s even a dead person!¡± Constable Shen smiled insincerely: ¡°For there to unexpectedly be someone committing such a vicious crime of murder in broad daylight, this must be looked at to understand everything clearly. Since we are being fed by the Emperor, we must not be fed in vain. Above, we cannot let down His Majesty; below, we also cannot let down the civilians. Say, Elder Jia, isn¡¯t that correct?¡±


    Elder Jia was gloomy with regret and frustration. Every day, robberies and violent crimes were committed and corpses were piled in carts before being pulled out of the city. How was it that he had never seen the enthusiastic before?


    Who didn¡¯t know the Crown Prince and the Fifth Prince were on opposing sides? Shun Tian Hall being the Crown Prince¡¯s hawk talons was clearly to coerce personal retaliation. Elder Jia thought thus, but was unworried, for there was the Fifth Prince on his side and they would not dare to do too much.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi finally became well-behaved, and Ruan Zhu tried to straighten her messed up hair and clothes in the dark, not knowing what she currently looked like.


    Constable Shen strode to the east side room and called for someone to take Steward Wang¡¯s corpse to the yamen¡¯s mortuary for the coroner to perform an autopsy. He then swept his eyes around the room once, walked inside the bedroom, and pointed at the trunk, instructing: ¡°Someone come, open this up for me.¡±


    Ruan Zhu knew that there was no way to avoid this, yet her heart was tranquil.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was full of arrogance. Not waiting for someone to come lift up the lid, he pushed it open himself and jumped out.


    ¡°Who are you?¡±


    The constable immediately went on guard and raised a blade defensively while the bailiffs accompanying him surrounded them in a circle, all of them pointing their weapons at the stranger.


    ¡°Leader, there¡¯s still another one in the trunk. It looks to be a female.¡±


    Ruan Zhu stood up from the chest, brushing her hair and reinserting her hairpins. The clothes on her body could still be considered proper, and because the material was good, the messy areas were quickly fixed after she smoothed them. Against expectations, she was not very scared. No matter how it was said, the husband that had remained in the capital was a fourth-rank generalissimo and was in charge of the capital¡¯s most elite Fei Sheng army. Was it possible for him to not even have the ability to protect his wife?


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi had left the capital for the country of Nan Ling in his childhood and did not know many people as he had not returned for long. He was not able to comfortably speak of his background. Perhaps that group of traitors that wanted to kill him did not go far; it was very possible for them to be waiting outside the restaurant door, just waiting to capture him.


    He was still poisoned and could not use his qi to fight against these men. If by chance he made a move and qi was used, it would trigger the poison to spread even further, making the situation more dangerous.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Constable Shen pointed at him with his blade.


    ¡°I am your grandfather.¡± He had made a decision in his mind. Since leaving the restaurant was not a good idea, why not let these idiots lead him away? No matter how reckless those traitors that were after him were, they would still not dare to go against the authorities of Tian Chu.


    ¡°It was you that killed that old man. Arrest him.¡± Constable Shen was angered and pointed at Ruan Zhu: ¡°This female is surely his accomplice. Arrest them both.¡±


    ¡°I do not know him.¡± Ruan Zhu hurriedly tried to explain herself.


    But Xuanyuan Min Zhi spoke sarcastically and lazily said: ¡°You must not wrongly accuse people. She is innocent, and didn¡¯t do anything at all. At most, she helped with the small matters of intoxicating the old man and helped me hold the blade so that the blood would fly out.¡±


    This counted as ¡®doing nothing at all¡¯? This counted as ¡®small matters¡¯?


    Ruan Zhu nearly died from anger.


    As a result, both people were trussed up and led out of the east side room.


    Elderly Sir Jia was still in the courtyard and glanced at their direction when his eyes suddenly widened at the sight of Ruan Zhu, his mouth falling open: ¡°Wu¡­¡­wu¡­¡­¡±[FOOTNOTE HERE, C]


    Ruan Zhu also recognized him. Wasn¡¯t this no one else but Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s father? When she had gotten married several months ago, the two Lu family elders had stayed in the Ruan clan as guests. Who would have thought that her own husband¡¯s father was in charge of Lu Yin Ge?


    ¡°Elder Lu, I have let you see a mockery. Troubling you to please inform Lord Husband; tell him I have created trouble for him.¡± Ruan Zhu laughed and bowed towards him.


    How could Elderly Sir Jia dare to accept her bow? He hastily cupped his hands and bowed in return, saying: ¡°This one does not dare.¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought in her mind: This elderly man has always been so polite; truly a benevolent man who has never hurt anyone else. It was a pity that his son was only a secondary husband and she could not in good grace call him ¡®Father.¡¯


    Master Jia felt his torso and fished out a few silver banknotes from his lapel before offering them to the constable, a smile plastered on his face: ¡°Brother Shen, this is two hundred taels of silver for you and your brothers to have some drinks. If it is not enough, I can go retrieve some more. Requesting Sir to please be magnanimous; this Madam is my family¡¯s relative; asking Sir to take it easy on us.¡±


    Having received silver banknotes, Constable Shen was all smiles. His life nowadays was not easy or good; the ones at home all took off the lid before the pot even had the chance to boil. If he still didn¡¯t bring money back home, his wife would flip out. This was truly a good thing; it was the same as a person handing over a soft pillow just when one wanted to sleep. He heartily laughed: ¡°Elder Jia can be at ease. When you send over those silver banknotes, I will certainly release the person. Someone come, take them back to the yamen.¡±


    Thus, for the first time in her life, Ruan Zhu went to prison.


    [a] I had to think about this bc 18 + 16 = 34 which is not 19, but she means 18 in past life as Qin Zhu + 1 year in this life as Ruan Zhu.


    [b] Éñ²»Öª¹í²»¾õ, idiom meaning top secret; hush-hush


    [c] He actually says ¡°Îå¡­..Îå¡­..¡± here which means ¡°five¡­¡­five¡± but since that sound could mean a number (heh) of things in Chinese, I left it in pinyin.

 Chapter 64

    ¡°Miss, Miss; why have you all arrested my family¡¯s Miss?¡± Right at that time, Nuan Chun¡¯s search brought him to the rear courtyard. Upon seeing his family¡¯s Master had been trussed up, he was so startled his entire face became ashen and he threw himself over, regardless of everything.


    Ruan Zhu was alarmed. How could this idiot be so foolish? She hurriedly said: ¡°Nuan Chun, quickly return; there are no matters for you here.¡±


    Nuan Chun did not listen and started fighting with some of the bailiffs. How could he be their opponent? After a round of punches and kicks, he slumped on the ground, unable to get up.


    Master Jia saw that they were still beating him and walked forward to say some nice words before the bailiffs would let Nuan Chun go.


    ¡°Elder, look at Nuan Chun, please invite a physician to look at him.¡± Ruan Zhu shouted behind her as she was brought to the large gate by the bailiffs.


    ¡°I know.¡± Master Jia looked on helplessly as his Young Master¡¯s newly wed wife was arrested, feeling as if he was about to puke! Seeing Nuan Chun had been beaten quite badly, he called for some servants to carry him into a room to lie down before having someone go invite a physician from a medicine hall.


    ¡°Master¡­¡­¡± Xiao Wu apparently knew he had caused a disaster, and his eyes were filled with both remorse and fright. He had previously come to the capital to search for his parents but was unsuccessful. Being penniless at well, he had fainted at the roadside. If it weren¡¯t for Master Jia offering him shelter, he would have long starved to death. Today, it was clear his good intention had inadvertently led to a disaster.


    ¡°Do you know when His Fifth Highness, who has left the city for army drills, will be able to return?¡±


    ¡°This small one has asked around. It will likely not be until tomorrow or the day after.¡±


    ¡°That long.¡± Master Jia was flustered. The Madam had met with mishap at Lu Yin Ge; if Young Master found out about this, wouldn¡¯t he flay off his skin? That hateful Constable Shen took his money but still refused to release the person: ¡°I will go send some more money to Constable Shen. Xiao Wu, go to the kitchen and find some delicious things to pack in a food case, then follow me to the prison for a look. I certainly must not let the Young Master¡¯s wife go hungry. Cough cough¡­¡­A whole group of greedy and insatiable shameful things dare to kidnap my family¡¯s lady. Just wait until Master returns to put them in order.¡±


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Ruan Zhu was locked in prison. The ornaments in her hair, the bracelets on her wrist¨Cnone of the considerably expensive jewelry on her remained. The emerald bracelet was whisked away by Constable Shen; the other bailiffs took advantage of the situation to steal her jadeite necklace and jasper hairpin. The earrings were ones that she personally gave away; the reason was very simple¨Cshe was too afraid they would tear her earlobe.


    Ruan Zhu had barely entered the prison cell for two minutes when a prison matron called her out and took her to a single room, where ragged sackcloth clothes were thrown at her in exchange for the rare soft smoke muslin. The prison matron saw that the satin shoes inlaid with pearls she wore on her feet were also not bad and took them while she was at it.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart was filled with grievances and hatred. Right now she was impoverished, and there was no difference between the current her and the beggars on the streets.


    She followed behind the prison matron toward the cell. Her bare, tender, and small feet stepped along the passageway. Enduring the uneven surface that poked her feet and caused stabs of pain to shoot up her legs, she shed tears in her heart. They were truly sinister, ah! The ancient prisons did not believe in human rights.


    The air inside the prison was dreadful. There was an extremely unpleasant odor that made her dizzy from nausea, and she did her best to endure the discomfort in her stomach.


    Malnourished and sickly women were packed on either sides of the fence. There were old and young, all of them so thin as to almost not resemble humans. They turned their hunger-filled eyes over in ridicule as if they were saying: Look, hmm? Turns out this stupid bastard was the same as us.


    Ruan Zhu recalled how she had just passed through here previously wearing her soft smoke gauze. Those eyes had had been filled with envy and hatred then, but had this quickly changed into these kind of expressions.


    This was the inferiority at the root of human nature! If there were two people who were simultaneously brought to the execution grounds, and the one ahead was freed, the one behind would go mad¡­¡­simply because there there was no one who could share his suffering, no one that would also go down the same path. If it were possible, the one behind would use his teeth and nails to tear the one in front to shreds.


    With one in front and one behind, they arrived at a prison cell. The prison matron unlocked the door and pushed her inside.


    Constable Shen had received Elder Jia¡¯s bribe and had arranged a single cell for her. It was still one of those with a fence, but the environment was much better¨Cwith a bed, desk, and chair at the corner. The right and left cells on either side of her were filled with dirty women, and even children that were only a few months old were present. They were being held at their young mothers¡¯ bosoms, and because they were extremely hungry, loudly wailed.


    The cells were hot and stuffy and the great majority of these women did not wear clothes, exposing their pitch-black breasts.


    ¡°Little girl, your appearance isn¡¯t bad. Your beautiful clothes have been taken, right? What did you do to come to this place?¡± An old woman in the left cell mockingly asked.


    ¡°You think everyone is the same as you; killing your own family¡¯s man!¡± Another woman curled her lip.


    ¡°This old woman did it in order to enter the prison for a bit to eat. Goddamn! You know how many people outside have starved to death. It¡¯s still being in prison that is better. There is food, there is someplace to stay; being able to muddle my way in is the ancestral shrine billowing out blue smoke.¡±[a] The old woman shook out the dust from a tattered blouse and put it on, swearing at the woman holding the baby in her arms: ¡°If your child dares to cry one more time, this old woman will choke him to death. Annoying me to death.¡±


    The young woman jumped with fright and hurriedly coaxed the child at her bosom.


    Ruan Zhu plopped down on the chair and poked at her chin with her finger. Bored, she let her imagination run wild. The things she had experienced today were truly a lot, ah, so much.


    First, was the strange discovery in the account ledgers. She had led Nuan Chun to Lu Yin Ge, went to find Steward Wang, then unexpectedly ran across him being offed by the crippled man. Worried she would be considered the murderer, she had hid in the chest. To her surprise, a bad luck demon had jumped in, immediately followed by hitmen from Nan Ling, however they also scrammed. She had thought it was safe then, but who would have thought a group of bailiffs would come over. Ai, she had still been considered the murderer and had been dragged into prison.


    She didn¡¯t expect Nuan Chun would disregard his own life for her and fight with the bailiffs. There was a faint stab of pain in her heart, but she hoped he was all right.


    After a few minutes, the cell door opened and Xuanyuan Min Zhi was pushed in by the prison matron. The luxurious sapphire blue satin clothes had been replaced by a ragged gray sackcloth. She took a glance at his feet. Just like her, he was barefoot.


    The sole chair was occupied by Ruan Zhu, and Xuanyuan Min Zhi could only sit down on the bed. Neither of the two spoke. They were perhaps thinking of their own worries!


    The female prisoners had not seen a man in who knows how many years. They all foolishly looked towards this single cell, directing catcalls and obscenities towards him. He fiercely glared at them once before ignoring them completely.


    Ruan Zhu was baffled. This was a female prison. How should it be said for an adult male to be thrown in here?


    When it was time for the meal, the prison matron squeezed two bowls of coarse rice through the cell bars. Although it was only brown rice, this treatment could be considered not bad compared to the black and unidentifiable food that the other cells were given. Xuanyuan Min Zhi placed one of the bowls in front of her and then brought the other bowl to the head of the bed. Not in the least caring how unpalatable brown rice was, he gulped down large mouthfuls, and soon after, the bottom of the large bowl of rice could be seen.


    Ruan Zhu looked at the bowl of rice and found it hard to swallow. Enduring the discomfort in her stomach, she ate a tiny mouthful, thought it disgusting, and hurriedly pushed the bowl to the side.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t eat, your body won¡¯t be able to take it. There is no need to make it difficult for yourself.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi placed his own empty bowl on top of the table and looked at her: ¡°In the beginning, it will feel as if they are pressing down on your teeth but it will be much better after you eat it a few times. It¡¯s better than being hungry; there¡¯s lots of people that can¡¯t even afford rice, hmm?¡±


    ¡°It sounds like you¡¯ve suffered a lot?¡± She cast a cynical look his way. Was it possible for a noble mister of the imperial family that was born with a golden spoon in his mouth to comprehend the misery of the poor common folk?


    ¡°Those few months after I left Nan Ling, I have also chewed the weeds in Mount Lian. Afterwards, you sent me to old Sun¡¯s family who handed out moldy rice. I also frequently ate steamed buns that were covered with green fuzz.¡± He indifferently responded. At old Sun¡¯s place, it wasn¡¯t that there weren¡¯t opportunities to escape; rather, the current political situation was in upheaval, and if he fled, his days would be even more miserable. after he arrived in Yu Zhou, though the distance between him and the capital had lessened, the number of assassins after him from Nan Ling actually increased.


    ¡°Saying it like that, it seems I have caused much trouble for you.¡± The corner of Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth rose, the color of her eyes like limpid autumn waters.[b] ¡°Thus, you sought revenge and also sent me to prison.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi shook his head: ¡°Having you enter the prison is because your family is able to materially provide you with assistance. I am just conveniently benefiting in the process.¡±


    Ruan Zhu did not believe him: ¡°You are a prince. Whatever you want, how could you not receive?¡±


    A cold sneer appeared on Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s face: ¡°All people chase after benefits. They think of nothing but personal gain and would sell their own soul to obtain that thing. Me being in this state today is all thanks to those traitors. Now, apart from myself, there is no one I trust.¡±


    Ruan Zhu looked at the women in the adjacent cells, hesitating before landing her eyes back on his face: ¡°I want to know. You used a trick to enter the female prison, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi responded exasperatingly slowly: ¡°I told the jailer I am your secondary husband. In life, we must lie together; in death, we must be buried together. If he agreed, I would give them a thousand taels of silver. Although you are very annoying, are ugly, and opinionated, to be able to leech some benefits, I cannot resign myself to be out of luck.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was so angered she turned her face away, refusing to speak to him any longer. Looking at the bowl of brown rice on the table, she was still unwilling to eat it. The child in the adjacent cell was incessantly crying and the tiny figure of Zhi Xi entered her mind. Distress and longing overcame her for a moment. Carrying the bowl of rice, she walked to the edge of the cell fence and offered it towards the mother of the child: ¡°You should eat this bowl of rice so that you will have milk to then feed the child.¡±


    The child¡¯s mother gratefully kneeled down in kowtow, but without waiting for the bowl to reach her hands, several blackened hands immediately stretched forward to snatch at the bowl. The bowl fell onto the ground and the rice was scattered all over while those women madly crawled on the ground, fighting for the tiny grains.


    Ruan Zhu was stunned at the scene. Just for a tiny bit of food, even self-respect and their consciences could be thrown away.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi coldly spoke thus: ¡°Truly an honorable Eldest Miss that has never gone hungry. Let¡¯s see if after two days of no meals you¡¯ll still have this rotten kindness. However, the other may not necessarily thank you.¡±


    ¡°I do not wish to let that child starve to death.¡± She was also a mother. At least her own Zhi Xi was still in the Ruan residence and had everyone to look after him. Ruan Yu would definitely not treat him badly.


    ¡°That child will definitely die. It doesn¡¯t matter if it¡¯s outside or in the prison cell. In famine, human lives are worth less than that of a dog¡¯s.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi sat on the bed and didn¡¯t say another word. After entering the prison, his safety was guaranteed. There were surely the assassins¡¯ spies outside the prison. If he were to somehow leave, how could he get in contact with his Emperor Father deep inside the palace?


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi sank into contemplation.


    After an indeterminate amount of time, the prison gate opened with a large bang and several people walked along the corridor. The ones the prison matron led were Elder Jia and several of his attendants, among which Ruan Zhu recognized one. It was the waiter in Lu Yin Ge that she had met before.


    ¡°Young Master¡¯s Wife!¡± Master Jia hurriedly rushed over and yelled through the fence: ¡°Are you all right? Is anywhere uncomfortable; they did not hit you, correct?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was dazed: ¡°Elder, you do not have to be so polite to me; you can just call me Zhu¡¯er.¡±


    ¡°Oh, all¡­¡­all right¡­¡­¡± Master Jia stammered: ¡°Xiao Wu, hand over the food¡­¡­¡±


    Xiao Wu unveiled the multiple layers in the food box and displayed the food inside. Up top were various kinds of pastries; there were two plates of dishes in the middle level; on the bottom was a jar of steaming carp soup.


    Ruan Zhu took the offered carp soup, and after a sip, felt a nausea that was hard to bear and thought perhaps she had caught a cold. She handed it over to Master Jia and pointed at the child in the adjacent cell: ¡°Bring the fish soup over there to feed the child.¡±


    [a] This can indicate 1) a good thing has happened, 2) satire used to curse/mock people


    [b] A traditional way of describing a girl¡¯s beautiful eyes.

 Chapter 65

    Glossary


    ³ß | chi | a Chinese foot, about one-third of a meter


    Elder Jia could not easily go against her order. Taking the porcelain jar from between the fence, he walked to the adjacent cell and looked inside. All of the woman inside the cell stared hungrily at the porcelain jar in his hands. The woman holding the child shouted: ¡°Sir, trouble you to carry the child outside to feed him. There will be no portion for the child to eat if it is brought inside.¡±


    Master Jia handed the porcelain jar over to Xiao Wu: ¡°Do as she says.¡±


    Xiao Wu had endured quite a bit of hardships and knew the pain of hunger. He let the prison matron unlock the cell door and release the woman, handing her the porcelain jug for her to feed the child herself.


    ¡°Young¡­¡­That¡­¡­If you are unwilling to drink the fish soup, that is fine. There are steamed dumplings here, flaky red bean buns, small steamed buns with black sesame and walnut, and also¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu could not decline Elder Jia¡¯s affection. Using the provided chopsticks, she picked up two pieces to eat. Fortunately, they were not that greasy, but she had no appetite and put the chopsticks back down.


    ¡°Later I will go find Constable Shen and discuss things with him. I will definitely have Young Master¡¯s Wife be released.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was perplexed: ¡°Why must we take a detour for this matter? Could it be that Lord Husband cannot resolve this?¡±


    Elder Jia squeaked out: ¡°He¡­¡­He left the city for some matters and will return in one or two days.¡±


    Ruan Zhu nibbled her lower lip and frowned: ¡°That Constable Shen is not easy to deal with. If he indeed makes things difficult, there is no harm in waiting until Lord Husband comes back. In any case, it is only one or two more days.¡± Even though she did not understand how the authorities operated in feudal times, she had seen quite a few movies and TV shows. In order to benefit, many officials lacking in virtue would absolutely not give up until they had squeezed the involved people dry. She feigned a light attitude: ¡°Perhaps when Elder sends over the money tonight, Lord Husband would return tomorrow morning. Wouldn¡¯t that be an injustice?¡±


    ¡°The prison environment is so rotten, staying another moment is profaning you.¡± Indignance flashed in Master Jia¡¯s eyes and he muttered: ¡°That dirty Constable Shen has borrowed his courage from the Heavens. I will precisely send him some silver tonight, and then when Master comes back tomorrow, he will have to obediently spit them back out for me.¡±


    ¡°Elder has a Master?¡± Ruan Zhu was surprised. She recalled the conversation she had heard while she was hiding in the chest of Lu Yin Ge being the property of the Fifth Prince: ¡°Is Elder¡¯s Master the Fifth Prince?¡±


    ¡°En, yes¡­¡­wait for His Fifth Highness to come back to throw them all into prison for you to vent your anger.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s mood became slightly better and she laughed: ¡°Elder, you are confused. The other is a prince; how could he casually listen to your words?¡± No wonder Lu Piao Xiang could become a general! It turns out there was this level of connection.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. Time¡¯s up.¡± The prison matron came over to shoo the visitors away and pushed Elder Jia towards the exit: ¡°Time¡¯s up; you should leave. Later there will be a change in shifts and we also want to go home. If you want to visit a prisoner, come again tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Young¡­¡­That¡­¡­Tomorrow I will bring over clean clothes for you. You also do not have to worry about the matters in the Ruan residence; I will arrange everything well. As for the Second Miss of the Ruan clan and Little Zhi Xi, I will also take good care of them.¡±


    Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s father was truly too passionate! Ruan Zhu gazed at the back of the departing elderly figure, her mind in an endless state of gratefulness.


    ¡°Stupid woman, you know nothing. Why on earth would you still wed that man?¡±


    A ridicule sounded from behind her. Ruan Zhu turned around and saw Xuanyuan Min Zhi sitting in the chair, one leg crossed over the other with a completely relaxed attitude while stuffing his mouth with the desserts that Elderly Sir Jia had sent over. She thought in her heart: This man is so rude. Well, if he wants to eat, then just eat. I can¡¯t finish it all anyway.


    The light from the window on the roof gradually dimmed and night approached.


    The odor in the prison made Ruan Zhu feel terribly stifled and her head was continuously dizzy. There was no one on the bed so she laid on top of it. Pulling the one tattered blanket over herself, a stench entered her nose atop of the other smells¡­¡­She felt a burst of nausea and quickly threw the blanket to the side, deciding to wrap her arms around herself instead. Perhaps because she was too tired, she entered dreamland not too long after.


    This night, she slept very roughly. Scattered images and fantasies came thick and fast¨Cfluttering and fleeting¨Cwith no link between them. It was just like an octopus in the deep sea had extended an enormous tentacle, bringing about an unspeakably frightening shadow.


    She dreamt of her past life¡­¡­In her dreams, she seemed to have returned to the night before she transmigrated¡­¡­The father that had been absent for many years returned with his new wife and crippled son, saying it was to celebrate his daughter¡¯s eighteenth birthday and for them to have a meal together. She rode with them to a luxurious restaurant. Waiting for her was her father unexpectedly wanting to marry his eighteen-year-old daughter to his crippled stepson.


    The result of the matter was her firm refusal no matter how they tried to persuade her. When their nice words were exhausted, she still didn¡¯t agree even after they used the house and property as a bargaining chip.


    At the end, her father was enraged and slapped her several times in the face.


    She had ran out of the restaurant, crying. But not long after she reached the street, she was caught by her father and dragged back into the car, saying if she did not agree, then she would be confined for a lifetime.


    Yet, there was never any thought that an even more dreadful event would happen.


    When their car was underneath downtown¡¯s most beautiful interchange, they met with a terrible disaster¨Cthe bridges collapsed and blocks of concrete crashed down one after the other¡­¡­A few chunks fell down beside her, smashing into their car and leaving her with no way out.


    During this moment of crisis, her father left the car with his beloved woman in tow, leaving behind his biological daughter and crippled stepson.


    She looked at the back of that so-called father of hers in despair when another large chunk of cement dropped down and she completely sank into darkness.


    ¡°Ah!¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu woke from her dream with a start, her entire body covered in sweat and unable to stop shaking. Even her heart almost jumped out from her chest.


    A long while passed before she realized it was all a dream. She looked at the skylight above the prison cell; it was still the long suffering night with brightly twinkling stars. The midnight wind drifted into the cell, causing a nip in the air, and she felt a chill pass through her body.


    ¡°Had a dream?¡±


    A low male voice flowed into her ear; it was the one sitting in the chair¨CXuanyuan Min Zhi. She did not respond. Recollecting the scenes in her dream, a kind of intuition rose up from within her. This dream was some sort of prophecy, seemingly pointing to something in the dark.


    She thought hard about the people and matters that had occurred in this past day, not letting a single one slip by.


    The crippled man!


    Suddenly, the scene of Steward Wang being killed in Lu Yin Ge by the crippled man flashed in her mind! She was so startled, she sat up from the bed. Impossible. How could there be such a coincidence?


    Their appearances did not resemble each other at all, but they were both lame. Could it be that even though the other had crossed, he was still unable to alter the fate of being crippled?


    With two transmigrators, it¡¯s enough for there to only be one that knows the advanced technology of the future; the second person is unnecessary! It was as if the perpetrator¡¯s voice was in her ear. Ruan Zhu was so frightened, every single one of her bones trembled.


    Wait, wait. Let her think for a moment. Since her transmigration, what had she done that had violated this era¡¯s laws?¡­¡­She must list everything out, one by one¡­¡­


    The matter with the tables¨Cshe can forget about that. And then not long after she transmigrated, she met Lu Piao Xiang and recited one of Wang Wei¡¯s poems. That shouldn¡¯t be too big of an issue. She had heard others say that guy had already mixed into society without graduating from high school. Then, when he had gone to apply to some company, he couldn¡¯t even write a resume, let alone an ancient poem.


    She had sung ¡®Plum Blossoms Blooming Thrice¡¯ for Lu Piao Xiang, and he had played it with the guqin. That was fine; that person didn¡¯t even know what ¡®do re mi¡¯ was, so even if he listened to the guqin, he would still not understand.


    Oh yes, she had designed a set of jewelry at Ming Xiang Cui Yu. Carefully thinking about it, it should also not be much of a problem as one wouldn¡¯t be able to appraise it if one wasn¡¯t an expert.


    What else has she done¡­¡­right, she had helped Lu Piao Xiang improve many of the army¡¯s weapons. But these were considered to be military secrets. Don¡¯t mention a small common civilian, even high ranking officials in the imperial court may not be aware of these things.


    Also, also, Zhi Xi had a few toys that were not from this era and several of his onesies were embroidered with cartoon characters. When she returned, she¡¯ll pull them all off.


    It was like Ruan Zhu had become crazy as she tossed and turned, unable to sleep. She felt that as soon as she closed her eyes, nightmares would torment her again. Never had she imagined that in the country of Tian Chu, there would be a terrifying enemy that would cross together with her through a twist in time and space in the midst of that disaster to this era.


    ¡°What¡¯s with you; why are you so unhinged in the middle of the night?¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi looked at the woman on the bed, baffled. He had already given up the sole bed for her to sleep in, so why did she suddenly have a breakdown? Sure enough, she really was an Eldest Miss that could not endure the slightest bit of suffering.


    Ruan Zhu could no longer fall asleep and sat up in the bed, her heart enshrouded by an unending stream of misery and hopelessness.


    If Yun Shi Yi was here, then it would be okay. She could hide herself within his broad chest and be moved to laughter by his cajoles; she could forget all of the unhappiness in the world. Tears accidentally flowed down her face, and she quickly turned her back and wiped them dry.


    Agitation burst forth in Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s heart. Even though it was pitch-black, he could still feel the sorrow pouring off the woman just a few meters away from him.


    He didn¡¯t know what was wrong with him. Whether other people lived or died¨Cwhat did that have to do with him? Since childhood, he did not understand how to be concerned about others. His heart was unfeeling and has always been this way. When he had witnessed his biological father die in front of his eyes, not a tear had dropped.


    He could tie up his own flesh and blood brother and throw him into the streets. Worried Emperor-Father, who had gone south on patrol, would return and be infuriated, he had fabricated a fire by using an eunuch¡¯s corpse as a substitute for his brother and setting the latter¡¯s bedroom on fire.


    Unfortunately, he still could not escape being investigated and a small eunuch by his side betrayed him and revealed his secret to Emperor-Father.


    If it weren¡¯t for Empress-Mother pleading on his behalf, he would have long been bestowed a cup of poison at the age of eight. But what of it? Wasn¡¯t he still exiled to the far flung country of Nan Ling by a simple edict?


    He did not have a single close relative, and apart from the several palace eunuchs at his side, there was not one person that he was familiar with. All that he did had to depend on how others reacted. The concubine-born brothers of his saw him as a thorn in their eyes and a thorn in their sides, wishing they could remove him and quickly, at that.


    Even if he demanded favor from the Duchess, he was not born from her. They were separated by blood and he would ultimately suffer a crushing defeat in the struggle for inheritance.


    When dawn arrived, Ruan Zhu fell ill. With her eyes closed, she motionlessly leaned against the bed, her face flushed red while her body was hot one instant and cold the next. Her eyebrows would occasionally slightly crease or she would occasionally pant deeply. Her illness tormented her and robbed her of her previous vitality.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi did not pay attention at first, but after he saw there had been no movement on the bed for a long time, he walked over to pat her shoulder: ¡°You all right?¡±


    She pried open her eyes to look at him, her gaze unfocused, before closing them again.


    He placed his hand on top of her wrist, searching for her pulse, only to find it jumping terribly. Her temperature was also high enough to scare someone. If this continued, her brain would be fried. He went to the door of the cell, loudly shouting for someone to come. The prison matron walked over and swore at him before coldly leaving.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi waited for another while until the sun¡¯s rays shone.


    Master Jia sent someone to deliver food, but the bailiff did not allow them to enter the cell and the food case was sent in by the prison matron. They heard that a multitude of suspicious people had assembled outside the prison. The warden was worried the prison would be infiltrated by unscrupulous people thus no one was allowed to visit any prisoners.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi knew these ¡®unscrupulous people¡¯ were very likely to be the assassins from Nan Ling that were after him. As expected, they were guarding a tree stump, waiting for rabbits,[a] not leaving a single opportunity for him to live. If they were not even hesitating to break into the prison, they absolutely would not permit him to meet with the Emperor of Tian Chu.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi took out a meat soup from the food box and fed her with a spoon. But seriously ill patients could not eat anything too strong, and she was unable to bear even a whiff of the smell. He had no other choice and could only give her water to drink. Tearing off a piece of his lapel, he soaked it in water before placing it on her forehead, hoping it would help in lowering her temperature.


    The day went by. Ruan Zhu remained unconscious under her fever and laid there like a corpse.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi thought she could no longer wait. Only the Heavens knew whether Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, that idiot, could return. If he couldn¡¯t, he was afraid this stupid woman would die.


    He bundled her up in the tattered blanket on the bed before strapping her onto his back. Walking to the edge of the cell, he circulated the qi within his meridians and with chilly eyes, struck the sturdy door with his palm. The air swirled within the single room and the heavy door cracked into several fragments.


    ¡°A prisoner is escaping; someone come!¡±


    The sound of the door breaking alarmed the prison guards, and they rushed towards the source with their weapons.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi coldly smiled. Since he had decided to use his inner force, how could these jailers who were only superficially skilled in martial arts be his opponent? Toes pressing against the ground, he appeared in front of a jailer in a flash and with a stretch of his arm, seized the others¡¯ broadsword. Raising his arm while letting the sword plummet, two of the jailers in front of him were chopped to the ground.


    ¡°The prisoner has killed, the prisoner has killed; quickly come and kill him.¡±


    A jailer yelled out in panic for bravado, but there was no one that dared to step forward.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi slashed open the prison door in one swing and stepped outside into a very large courtyard. His eyes were filled with a majestic coldness and he strode domineeringly towards the large gate¡­¡­Outside the gate, there were countless assassins waiting to take his life. He also didn¡¯t know why he had to save and carry that stupid woman, but perhaps it was just because he was unwilling to watch her die.


    ¡°Open the gate.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi pointed his sword at the sentry guarding the gate. That man trembled and took out the key, inserting it into the keyhole.


    The large gate slowly opened. There were multiple peddlers on either side of the street, approximately thirty to fifty people. With a glance, he could see these people were wearing disguises and the corner of his lip hooked upwards with a smear of cold anticipation. To meet force with force under these circumstances, the winner was still not evident. However, the stupid woman on his back must not die.


    Tens of these small hawkers took out their weapons and crowded around. The head of these assassins walked in front with a sharp sword in his hand, announcing in a heavy voice: ¡°Xuanyuan Min Zhi, today is the day you will die. You can only blame yourself for being born.¡±


    ¡°Wait, it does not matter if I die, but the background of the woman behind me is not small. She is the current Fifth Prince¡¯s woman; I am afraid none of you can afford to offend her.¡±


    ¡°Who the hell are you trying to fool? Why have I not heard that the Fifth Prince had married?¡± The head of the assassins waved his sword and shouted: ¡°None may leave; all must die.¡±


    But before his words had dropped, a sharp arrow, like lightning, flew towards his throat with a whistling sound. By the time he was aware, he hastily used his sword to block it but that arrow¡¯s strength was abnormal. The tip of the arrow created a few sparks from contact with the blade and flew out sideways just enough that it tore across the main artery in the head of the assassins¡¯s neck. Blood flew out over one chi tall, like a faucet, like blazing sparklers, unspeakably bewitching¡­¡­


    ¡°This prince would actually like to see who you would like dead?¡±


    A shout came from a distant place. A young general on a tall Malaysian horse with a bow and arrow in his hands had dropped out of the sky, immediately followed by an army several-thousand strong with the power and momentum of a tiger for a thousand li.


    The young general finally arrived before them. Pointing at the small hawkers, his cold eyes swept past them and seemed to pierce them through with ice as he commanded the soldiers behind him: ¡°Kill them all.¡±


    ¡°Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, so you still know to return.¡±


    ¡°Xuanyuan Min Zhi, return this prince¡¯s beloved concubine back to me.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi held Ruan Zhu in his arms. Seeing that she was unconscious but only asleep, he couldn¡¯t help but become anxious as if he had been burned. He yelled towards a soldier: ¡°Quickly go invite a physician.¡± Saying that, he hugged his wife, mounted his horse, and galloped towards his own princely residence.


    [a] ÊØÖê´ýÍÃ, idiom meaning to wait idly for opportunities; to trust chance rather than show initiative

 Chapter 66

    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi hugged his wife as he urged his horse towards his prince¡¯s residence. He directly entered the main residence, Wang You Hall, and ran into the bedroom.


    Placing her on top of the brocade bed, he looked towards that unconscious face, his heart besieged by fear and dread. He had never felt this emotion before, even when he had been plotted against by his elder brother during his childhood. But now¡­¡­In his eyes, there was a large trace of panic that had never been there before. He had never even imagined that something would happen to her in the two days he was gone.


    All of a sudden, he jumped up and rushed to the door, bellowing: ¡°Why has the imperial physician not come yet?!¡±


    The imperial bodyguard on duty very rarely saw his Master losing his temper like this. The head of the imperial bodyguards, Nangong Xun, walked over and cupped his hands in salute: ¡°A trip to and from the imperial hospital is not that fast. Prince does not need to worry. Princess has become unconscious from a fever; however, placing some ice cubes on Princess¡¯s forehead will help alleviate the temperature quite a bit.¡±


    Worry leaked out from Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes and he shouted towards two palace eunuchs who walked over from the opposite hall carrying water to wash one¡¯s face with: ¡°Qu Gao and He Gua, the two of you quickly go to the cellar and return with some shaved off ice. You must hurry. If you are late by one step, twenty hits with the cane; late by two steps, neither of you need to use your legs to walk in the future as having them is useless so they might as well be chopped off.¡±


    The two palace eunuch¡¯s faces were ashen. Placing the basins of water on the ground, they chased after each other in their hurry to bring back ice cubes.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi thought about how his wife¡¯s clothes were dirty and if she knew, she would immediately become distressed. He instructed the bodyguard on duty: ¡°Carry some water inside the bedroom then go buy several good looking female outfits outside. They must be on the simple and neat side.¡±


    He was unwilling to allow other people to touch her and personally looked after his wife. Taking off that raggedy and dusty sackcloth, he used a moist towel to scrub her body. When he went to wipe her feet, he discovered that the sole of her tiny feet were covered in blisters. Finding some sewing needles, he popped each one with trembling fingers, his distress incapable of increasing even more.


    Finishing with these things, he dressed her in his own white silk night clothes. At this time, Qu Gao and He Gua fetched over the ice cubes and he wrapped a few in a towel before placing them on her forehead.


    There was nothing else after that. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was unable to sit or stand still and after waiting for another spell, two imperial bodyguards finally rushed into Wang You Hall, leading an imperial physician. The person was familiar at a glance; it was precisely the one who had treated Ruan Zhu several months prior¨CImperial Physician Zhang. His eyes immediately brightened as he knew this man¡¯s medical skills were good. He pulled at Imperial Physician Zhang¡¯s hand: ¡°Elder, quickly come save my wife.¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang saw that there was a sixteen year old married lady laying in the bed, her face completely scarlet and her lips so red it seemed as if drops of blood would spill out. With one glace, it was obvious she was running a high fever and it was also extremely serious. This Madam, he had seen before. Because of her, he had even had to personally travel to Yu Zhou in the middle of the night.


    ¡°Quickly feel her pulse, ah!¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that the other was leisurely taking their time, and he became indignant.


    ¡°Do not be so hurried, this little moment will not matter.¡± Imperial Physician Zhang had become acquainted with this Royal Highness a few months ago and knew that his character was not wicked. He placed his hand on top of Ruan Zhu¡¯s wrist and closed his eyes while contemplating for a while before shaking his head: ¡°How could this happen so quickly?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw him shake his head and his heart dropped. So nervous that both his palms were filled with sweat, he hastily asked: ¡°Elder, how is my wife?¡±


    Several wrinkles appeared on Imperial Physician Zhang¡¯s forehead: ¡°Originally, it was not a big matter as it is merely a high fever along with a cold, and the illness could be alleviated with some strong medicine. But now, it has become rather difficult¡­¡­¡±


    Rage abruptly ignited in Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes and he roared: ¡°You are a doctor from the imperial hospital; how could a tiny, tiny cold be untreatable? What are you useful for?!¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang was very innocent: ¡°It is not that this lowly one¡¯s medical skill is not capable; it is that this humble one is worried that using medicines that are too strong would harm the fetus in her stomach. Such a large offense, this humble one cannot take it upon oneself, ah!¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi foolishly stared at him before abruptly grabbing his collar: ¡°Say it again. What fetus in her stomach?¡±


    ¡°Niangniang[a] is pregnant with child. It has already been over a month; does Prince not know this?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was pregnant with child; pregnant with his child?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes widened into perfect circles and he looked towards his lovely wife on the bed that was currently suffering under a serious illness. In a split second, his mind was full of mixed feelings of grief and joy. His hand practically trembled as he lightly brushed against his beloved person¡¯s face and felt a scalding heat that stabbed painfully into his heart. Lifting up his head, he faced Imperial Physician Zhang, a trace of ice in his eyes: ¡°I do not care what method you use but you must ensure the adult and child are both healthy. Otherwise I will have your entire family, old and young, buried with my wife.¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang lifted a hand to test the sweat on his forehead: ¡°Prince should first use some local methods to lower niangniang¡®s temperature, such as soaking in a hot bath and using strong alcohol to wipe down her body. This lowly one will then prescribe a milder prescription. If Prince could please have someone simmer the medicine and feed it to niangniang for a try, I will hurry and go to the imperial hospital to discuss what other effective methods exist with some of my peers.¡±


    ¡°Bodyguard Nangong, take him to make the prescription.¡±


    ¡°Imperial Physician Zhang, this way please.¡± Nangong Xun pointed towards the anteroom.


    But Elder Imperial Physician Zhang stood there without moving, his eyes filled with embarrassment and awkwardness, though the others did not know that he was currently hard-pressed.


    ¡°Still not hurrying? What are you foolishly standing there for?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi berated.


    ¡°Your Highness, this lowly one¡­¡­this small one¡­¡­will first say matters clearly. Niangniang¡®s fever is too severe that even if it is cured, it may not be possible to avoid some residual effects, such as headaches, ah, and changes in intellect, and things like that¡­¡­¡± Just saying that your broad may become a fool, but that has nothing to do with me. Who told you to come find me in the dead of night?


    How could Xuanyuan Zong Zhi not understand what he was inferring? Ice seemed to shoot from his eyes as if they were frozen in their frigidity: ¡°If this prince¡¯s beloved princess meets with disaster, the lives of your entire family will be required to account for your misdeed. Nangong, take him to write the prescription, if there is any sort of delay, do it for him to see.¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang was scared witless and secretly rained curses. These young masters of the imperial family simple did not take others lives seriously. When doing something, they were unafraid of the consequences and killing a few people seemed to be tantamount to pinching a few ants to death. He had originally believed this Fifth Prince was different from the others, but he hadn¡¯t thought he would also be rather vicious and merciless.


    But he did not dare to be neglectful on the outside and dutifully followed Nangong Xun outside to write the prescription.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi directed towards the two palace eunuchs standing by attendance next to the door: ¡°Qu Gao and He Gua, quickly prepare bath water, then have Steward Chen bring over two pitchers of strong alcohol from the storehouse. Hurry, there must be no delay.¡± He was enraged as this Steward Chen had run off to who knows where again. The Master had returned yet he does not even come to attend. Previously, he had thought of him as the Empress Dowager¡¯s former person and did not bother too much about him. But it seems that a few lessons were necessary.


    The two eunuchs responded in agreement and ran outside, one of them calling for someone to prepare bath water, the other to find strong alcohol.


    Not long after, a palace eunuch brought over the alcohol. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi removed his wife¡¯s clothes and dipped a cloth kerchief in it before wiping her body down. Seeing her the same as an unconscious puppet, his thoughts became increasingly dismal.


    Today, after the army drills had finished, he had just thought to bring the Fei Sheng army back to the barracks when he unexpectedly ran across Elder Jia on the road and discovered his wife had been taken to prison by the bailiffs. Burning with anxiety, he had immediately led a group of his men to the rescue but hadn¡¯t thought he would be too late.


    When he finished wiping her with the strong wine, he wrapped her up in brocade.


    There was nothing else to do after that. It was only then that he realized he had yet to remove his suit of armor. Calling for the other palace eunuch in attendance, the servant naturally waited upon him in changing clothes.


    ¡°Prince, bath water has already been arranged.¡± Qu Gao came over to report.


    The bathroom was adjacent to the bedroom, separated only by a door. Xuanyun Zong Zhi carried his wife inside. This room was entirely built with white marble and the pool of water was very spacious. Lifting her into the water, he sat down and placed her in his lap so that she was leaning against his shoulder.


    It¡¯s unknown whether it was due to the impact of lowering her temperature or the stimulation of the warm water¡­¡­Ruan Zhu moved and her eyes faintly opened up a small slit. She saw that she was in a man¡¯s embrace, but her mind was still muddled and her lips slightly moved: ¡°Eldest Cousin, you¡¯ve returned.¡±


    Her voice was hoarse, as if she was sleep talking. But Xuanyuan Zong Zhi still heard her, though his heart was somewhat grieved as despite being held by him, she was still thinking of another man. He softly comforted her: ¡°Wife, yes, I have returned¡­¡­you are fine, right!¡±


    Yet Ruan Zhu started bawling into his broad chest.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right, it¡¯s all right; be good; it¡¯ll be better very quickly. I won¡¯t let anything happen to you¡­¡­¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi pulled her closer and repeatedly consoled her only to see her head tilt to the side as she fell unconscious again.


    ¡°Wife, Wife¡­¡­¡± He hastily shouted out.


    ¡°Prince, the medicine for niangniang has been boiled.¡± Qu Gao carried a tray inside that had a bowl of medicine on top.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi took the offered bowl, and placing his lips on hers, transferred each sip into her mouth¡­¡­In the middle of her stupor, it was as if the half asleep Ruan Zhu had returned to the small garrison town in the southern border where Yun Shi Yi had fed her medicine. She unconsciously accepted all of the bitter medicine she was fed and gulped it all down until not even a drop remained.


    He fed her until the very last mouthful. Not willing to let go, one of his hands supported her head while he kissed her for a while.


    None of the several palace eunuchs standing in attendance outside the pool of water dared to look and they all lowered their heads.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi felt that the temperature of the water had slightly cooled and carried his wife back into the bedroom, anxiously keeping watch next to the bed.


    After the night had passed, she remained unconscious while her temperature continuously rose and fell.


    The palace eunuchs all stood outside the door the entire night; their Master had not rested and none of them dared to return to their rooms.


    ¡°Where the goddamned place has the man gone? Send someone to the imperial hospital to see what the hell Imperial Physician Zhang is doing?!¡± From inside the door came the Master¡¯s bellow.


    Nangong Xun walked inside and bowed before the beaded curtain: ¡°Yesterday, this subordinate dispatched two capable imperial bodyguards to accompany him to the imperial hospital and they have just sent back news: Imperial Physician Zhang has been researching with several of his colleagues on niangniang¡®s illness the entire night.¡±


    ¡°You can withdraw!¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi waves his hand, disheartened.


    ¡°Prince has not eaten ever since returning yesterday. How about letting Qu Gao and He Gua send for some dishes?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi did not make a sound. He thought in his heart¨CShe was already like this; what sort of meals could he eat? If, by chance, she left him, what would be the point in him continuing to live, all alone?


    ¡°You can withdraw. I am fine.¡±


    ¡°It is still Prince¡¯s noble body that is the most important.¡± Nangong Xun shook his head a little before retreating from the room. The Prince of Qi, whose brows had never creased before at any situation, was nevertheless, still merely a common person in front of personal matters and his children.


    ¡°Prince, Imperial Physician Zhang has arrived.¡± Qu Gao called from in front of the door.


    ¡°Quickly invite him inside.¡± A single flame of hope ignited in Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s heart and his thoughts were revived.


    Weariness was all over Imperial Physician Zhang¡¯s face and it was evident he had not slept the entire night. Led by Qu Gao into the bedroom, he hadn¡¯t firmly stood when he pulled out a very delicate porcelain bottle from his sleeves. He rubbed the porcelain bottle in his palm a few times before cautiously offering it forward with both hands.


    Qu Gao took the offered bottle and presented it to his Master, who was on the bed.


    ¡°This is the drug to reduce fever that you spent a night toiling over?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi looked at the porcelain bottle, baffled; his expression rather unconvinced: ¡°You surely know that if a disaster befalls niangniang, your entire family¨Cold and young¨Cwill accompany her in her grave?¡±


    ¡°There is no harm in Your Highness having niangniang drink it as there may be a result that is hard to imagine. However, this medicine is very potent. Only two tablespoons can be taken at one time, and it would be best to blend it with water first.¡±


    ¡°You are confident and are absolutely certain?¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang was calm but his tone unconsciously rose: ¡°This medicine is called Chen Jie Cai Lu and is manufactured from mustard by a Buddhist monk in a temple in Jiang Nan¡¯s Tian Ning district. Every year, Buddhist monks would harvest enormous quantities of mustard and ferment them before placing them in several large pottery jars. These jars are placed outside day and night though care is taken so that they are not affected by the rain. Exposed to nature, the mustard breaks out with mildew and when they have grown about three to four inches, the monks will then seal and bury the jars and then wait over ten years before opening them up again. By that time, the green mildew inside the jars would have completely transformed into liquid and the long green mold seen before burial would no longer be visible. This sort of mustard that had undergone years of burial and transformed into liquid is called Chen Jie Cai Lu and has great fame in this generation¡¯s Tian Ning Buddhist temple. Reportedly, it can treat any sort of cold, fever, cough, or spitting of blood. This humble one has heard of this medicine¡¯s God-like efficacy before and spent a fortune begging a peer for it this morning.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi handed the porcelain bottle to Qu Gao: ¡°Follow what Imperial Physician Zhang said; pour out two tablespoons and mix it with water.¡±


    It was a pity that he did not know that Chen Jie Cai Lu was precisely China¡¯s earliest form of antibiotics and its manufacturing method was similar to penicillin though the ingredients were different.


    A pity that such a great invention was only used in the Tian Ning Buddhist temple and did not arouse the interest of the ones in power.


    When Ruan Zhu woke, her head felt extremely heavy as if it was stone. Her body felt light and she didn¡¯t even have the strength to lift up a finger. She saw Lu Piao Xiang sleeping while holding her in his arms¡­¡­She wanted to call out to him, but her throat felt as painful as if it was on fire. Opening her mouth, not even a sliver of a sound could be made.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had not slept for two days in succession until last night, when his wife¡¯s condition had eased. He had only then dared to close his eyes at daybreak but still did not dare to actually fall asleep. Feeling something had changed by his side, his eyes immediately flew open only to see that the woman by his side had woken at who knows when. At once, his heart moved and even his nose felt a little sour.


    ¡°Wife, you¡¯ve finally woken. You scared me to death, I thought you¡­¡­¡± The corners of his eyes moistened.


    ¡°Lord¡­¡­Lord Husband¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu called out yet her voice was as thin as a mosquito¡¯s hum and she couldn¡¯t help but to frown.


    ¡°Your throat hurts terribly, correct? It¡¯s fine, it will be better very soon. I can promise you this.¡±


    Ruan Zhu dazedly looked at him. She has returned home; she just knew that her Lord Husband was omnipotent and would definitely save her. Thinking of the pain she had suffered while in prison and had buried within her, tears flowed out.

 Chapter 67

    Glossary


    ʯ | dan | dry measure for grain around one hundred liters


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi gently stroked his wife¡¯s back, the expression on his face both delighted and distressed: ¡°It¡¯s all right now. You are in your own home and there will be no one to bully you.¡±


    Own home? Ruan Zhu looked at her surroundings, her eyes full of doubt. The room that she was staying in was unspeakably luxurious and could be encapsulated in the four words ¡®The Gem of Life.¡¯[a] Famous calligraphy hung on the walls; Ru ware was placed on the tables; even the small ornaments on the tables and the hooks on the bed to hold the red muslin curtains were manufactured with gold.


    The bedding was made of cloud brocade from Jiang Nan and were embroidered with large red tree peony blooms. Cloud brocade was extremely precious, and the majority of people used them to make clothes; it was quite rare to see one use it as a quilt.


    ¡°This is not my home.¡± She looked at Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, her eyes full of questions.


    ¡°This is my home, so it is also your home.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi noted that his wife¡¯s still-pale lips yet remained full and captivating and couldn¡¯t help but to pull her closer for a kiss. His actions were very gentle as he was afraid of hurting her. Sucking on her tongue, he could feel that her internal temperature seemed to have returned to normal, and his heart eased. After a long kiss, he lamented: ¡°Fortunately, you are all right. It was my fault. Everything would have been fine if I had assigned a few imperial bodyguards who knew martial arts to protect you.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to blame yourself; it was me who was at fault. Who could have thought that would happen?¡± She extended her hand to caress his chin, and the places she touched were pricked by stubble. He had previously paid very close attention to his appearance; unexpectedly, even the thought of taking care of his facial hair hadn¡¯t crossed his mind.


    ¡°Those bailiffs and jailers should die. I will not let them go.¡± He would definitely have them pay the price. They dared to harm the Prince of Qi¡¯s most important person. Even if the other was the Emperor, who cares? He would still spare no effort.


    ¡°Bailiffs are all like that.¡± She sighed. In her previous world, there was even the incident of playing hide-and-seek! What¡¯s more, in the ancient era, one was captured with one¡¯s name and the others would not give up until one¡¯s fortune was completely gone. Fortunately, Elder Jia had sent some money, otherwise she would be even more out of luck.


    ¡°You have become hungry, correct? I will have some servants send some dishes over.¡± Last night while she was still unconscious, he had fed her half a bowl of porridge as he had thought it was best for her to eat a little since she was pregnant with his child.


    ¡°No appetite.¡± Her body was soft, as if she was floating among the clouds, while her head still felt extremely heavy. Speaking these few words with him had already made her tired.


    ¡°You must eat a bit otherwise it will not be good for the child.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi became solemn. Seeing she felt unwell, he moved her from within his arms to on top of the pillow.


    ¡°The child is still in the Ruan residence. The majestic general is speaking incoherently yet is not afraid of others laughing at him.¡± Ruan Zhu mocked him. She had said too much and her throat was extremely painful, leading to a fit of violent coughing that made breathing difficult and caused her face to flush completely red.


    ¡°All right, all right, do not speak anymore. When your illness has become better, you can speak for three days and three nights if you prefer, but right now you cannot.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi pat his wife¡¯s back, hoping it could help relieve some of her suffering.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it all because of you¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu pointed at him.


    ¡°I know, all right, don¡¯t speak anymore.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi hurriedly cut her off and yelled outside the bedroom: ¡°Qu Gao, instruct the kitchen to send in the meal.¡±


    ¡°This slave understands.¡±


    From behind the door came a tapered voice. Ruan Zhu thought, Such a thin voice that was not yet an adult¡¯s and was very likely a child whose voice had just changed. She did not even consider that the man outside was a palace eunuch.


    When Qu Gao and He Gua delivered the food, the dishes were on the lighter side and could be considered as to her liking. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi picked up a spoon and fed her, one mouthful at a time. She reluctantly finished a bowl and then pointed at him, indicating for him to also have some.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had also truly became hungry and his table manners were rather crude. Ruan Zhu pursed her lips in an attempt to not smile. Ever since he had associated with the old and grizzled men of the army for a long time, the originally elegant Lu Piao Xiang had picked up quite a few coarse habits. But that was good, as this more resembled a man. When all was said and done, being too refined made one too aloof and remote and also caused others to feel they could not and must not long for them.


    ¡°Prince, Elder Jia has brought some food from Lu Yin Ge and is currently waiting in the outer courtyard to seek an audience.¡± A palace eunuch walked to the beaded curtain and made a report.


    ¡°Send him in!¡± Having said that, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi smiled towards his wife: ¡°This time, you did not have any issues thanks to him. However, we can also blame him for letting something happen to you while in Lu Yin Ge. But since he has done a meritorious deed to make up for his mistake, I will not count this against him.¡±


    ¡°Why are they calling you ¡®Prince¡¯?¡± She mouthed the question to him, suspicion flashing in her eyes. Lu Piao Xiang had been bestowed the title of a Prince? How could that be possible? Based on what she knew, surnames different from ¡®Xuanyuan¡¯ did not have the qualification to be awarded the title of ¡®Prince.¡¯


    ¡°Because¡­¡­¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi became awkward and he forced a laugh: ¡°After two days when you are better, I will explain everything clearly.¡±


    ¡°Fine, then!¡± She agreed, despite not being fully satisfied.


    Elder Jia did not dare to enter. He bowed towards his Master while separated by the beaded curtain and handed the food box to a palace eunuch for the latter to bring it inside. He also asked about niangniang¡®s status, and only after finding out her fever had reduced and she was currently recuperating did he relax his manner of speaking. These few days, he had shouldered ample worries. He had feared that because Ruan Zhu had met with mishap, the Prince would be angered and take it out on him; it would be disastrous if he ended up without his head.


    Ruan Zhu was even more confused. Wasn¡¯t Elder Jia her own Lord Husband¡¯s father? Under what sky would the father salute his own son? She then recalled that they were not of the same surname¨Cone was Jia; one was Lu¨Cbut it was very possible that Lord Husband¡¯s name was a stage name.


    Ai, it¡¯s been this long yet she still doesn¡¯t comprehend him. In her opinion, he had always been a mystery.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi accepted the food box that the palace eunuch presented. Displayed inside were several quite delicate dishes that were all made according to the tastes of the patient and leaned to the lighter side. He ladled a spoonful of the gorgon fruit seeds and white fungus soup to his wife¡¯s mouth. Seeing that she didn¡¯t reject it, he fed her a few more bites.


    At this time, a palace eunuch entered and reported that Imperial Physician Zhang was here to check on niangniang¡®s condition. Just as Ruan Zhu was pondering who exactly ¡®niangniang¡® was, Imperial Physician Zhang walked in and bowed to the two in front before placing his hand on her wrist. After a moment, a smile appeared on his face.


    ¡°It appears there will be no further complications with niangniang and a complete recovery can be made if the medicine is taken for another two days. This lowly one will now prescribe a medicine to stabilize the fetus. Niangniang¡®s body is frail and must be properly nurtured to be beneficial to both the fetus and the adult.¡±


    Fetus? Were they talking about her? Full of doubt, Ruan Zhu felt her stomach and abdomen. Her becoming pregnant¨Cwhen did this happen and how was it that she herself was not aware? No wonder this month¡¯s period still hadn¡¯t come. But it had also been abnormal before so that¡¯s why she didn¡¯t think much of it.


    ¡°What, you are a mother yet you still don¡¯t know?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi teased her. Thinking about how his own child was in her belly, his heart was full of unspeakable happiness. He beamed at Imperial Physician Zhang: ¡°You saved niangniang¡®s life. You can say whatever it is you want. Gold and silver jewelry are all easy to handle.¡± As long as it was within his power, then all was possible.


    Imperial Physician Zhang shook his head: ¡°This humble one¡¯s family can no longer open the pot.[b] This humle one does not want gold and silver jewelry and would only like grain, oil, and salt. Being able to have a little bit of mutton and chicken would also not be bad.¡±


    The current political situation was full of unrest and the previous year¡¯s drought and this year¡¯s flood were something that Tian Chu saw once in a century.


    The families of the doctors in the imperial hospital were also living with difficulty and painfully chewed brown rice every day. Don¡¯t even mention meat, even merely white rice was something they had not eaten for a long time. The ¡®Chen Jie Cai Lu¡¯ he had mentioned to Xuanyuan Zong Zhi that he had purchased with an enormous amount of money was a lie. In actually, he had thickened his face and used the Prince of Qi¡¯s good name and reputation along with threats to blackmail the other for it.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi smiled and commanded a palace eunuch: ¡°Go find the steward and have him send to Imperial Physician Zhang¡¯s home: ten dan of rice, a hundred catties of oil, thirty catties of salt, and fifty each of sheep and chicken.¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang plopped onto his knees and loudly called out: ¡°Thanks to Prince.¡± Ten dan of rice was exactly two thousand catties. There was also oil and salt; so many delicious foods that even if one was wealthy, one may not necessarily be able to buy them on the streets at this time. The Prince was truly too generous.


    Once everyone had withdrawn, Ruan Zhu was extremely exhausted. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi fed her the medicine and pulled her into his arms. Under his coaxing, she fell asleep not too long later.


    He saw that her complexion was still as wan and sallow as before though it was no longer as abnormal and the load that had weighed on his mind for several days eased. Positioning her properly, he covered her with the brocade quilt¡­¡­he then quietly rose from the bed.


    Qu Gao stepped over to help his Master change his clothes. One in front and one behind, they walked out of Wang You Hall.


    ¡°All of those people have been brought over?¡±


    ¡°Responding to Master, Bodyguard Nangong have caught them all, with not a single one missing. They have been imprisoned in the dungeon. Does Prince wish to interrogate them now?¡±


    ¡°Speaking of Hua Yu Ping in the west courtyard, steep two pots of tea. The stir-fried tea that Elder Jia brought over a few days over is not bad. Go steep it. I must really let Zhu¡¯er try it. It is a pity that she does not love to drink tea.¡±


    But he did not know that it wasn¡¯t that Ruan Zhu disliked drinking tea; it was that she disliked this era¡¯s tea. If she had known earlier that stir-fried tea was in the residence, she would have long drank it, much less wait for him to mention it.


    The Hua Yu Ping in the west courtyard was where plants of different species were grown. During the fifth lunar month, the mass off flowers would be in full bloom and such a gorgeous and bright sight would dazzle one¡¯s eyes.


    But for the captives that were being led by the imperial bodyguards, they didn¡¯t even have enough time to be terrified so how could they be in a frame of mind to enjoy the scenery?


    They had already been kneeling for half of a sichen, and among them, Constable Shen quivered the most with fear. When the imperial bodyguards of the Prince of Qi had arrived at Shun Tian Hall, the magistrate had finally realized he had arrested the Princess of Qi and had almost caused her to lose her life. Granted, they were backed by the Crown Prince, but they did not dare take the initiative for him.


    Constable Shen had never entertained the thought that the woman he had arrested in Lu Yin Ge was the Prince of Qi¡¯s imperial concubine. He had originally thought of extorting some silver to use, but right now, just the matter of preserving his head was very difficult.


    ¡°Prince, Prince, please spare this slave, this lowly dog¡¯s life. Next time, I will no longer dare to do this.¡± Constable Shen kowtowed and pounded his head against the ground. As long as he wasn¡¯t killed, he was fine with whatever bit of punishment the other wanted to pass down.


    The Xuanyuan Zong Zhi that was currently sipping his tea asked Bodyguard Nangong: ¡°I did not hear wrong? He still wishes for a next time.¡±


    Do not merely look at how Nangong Xun was gentle and refined in manner as his heart and mind were very fierce. He has stood on a battlefield, killed bandits, and greatly profited from the human lives in his hands. Laughing, his face abruptly became harsh, and stalking fowards, he violently aimed a kick at Constable Shen. As he could ascend to becoming the head of the imperial bodyguards, his martial arts skill was exceptional.


    Initially, Constable Shen¡¯s head was still firmly continuing his motion when all of a sudden, he was sprawled on the ground with a look of great pain on his face. Both of his hands clutched the crotch of his pants while he squealed like a pig being slaughtered as he saw red and yellow liquid dribbling out from the cracks between his fingers.


    Nangong Xun faintly smiled: ¡°Don¡¯t think too much of it. It¡¯s merely that the egg yolk has been kicked til it broke. Yesterday, I had even heard people mentioning the number of palace eunuchs in Your Highness¡¯s palace was too few and not enough to order around. To make full use of everything, why not make this man into a crude palace eunuch messenger?¡±


    These shameful people frequently used the law in their name and their hands were covered in blood. This was truly karma! A jeer formed on the corner of Nangong Xun¡¯s mouth.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi coldly glanced out of the corner of his eye: ¡°How respectable is Emperor-Father¡¯s imperial palace? How could it tolerate this level of wretchedness and vulgarity?¡±


    The iron mine in Da Jue Mountain was plentiful and the quality was also the best. However, the climate was vile; nine months out of the entire year was full of blustery wind and snow. The conditions were arduous. Added with the inhuman persecution, the ones who were sent to dig for ore never survived past four to five months.


    The people kneeling on the ground waiting had all become so scared their faces were ashen and they repeatedly kowtowed, begging for forgiveness.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s gaze landed on top of a prison matron. A sneer appearing on his mouth like a blossoming poppy, he slowly enunciated: ¡°This prince has heard that you really like Princess¡¯s clothes and had even tore off her shoes.¡± As soon as he thought of how his wife¡¯s feet were covered in bloody blisters, he became even more infuriated, and his face became a sheet of ice.


    The prison matron stammered out in fright: ¡°This old woman did not know she was your Princess. Truly¡­¡­truly did not know. This old woman¡­¡­this old woman just took the clothes back¡­¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s slender finger leisurely stroked the lid of the teacup and insipidly shot her a glance: ¡°Such an ugly and disgraceful old woman. If we send her to Da Jue Mountain to become a prostitute for the military, no one would pay attention to her. How should the punishment be handed out then? It has actually become a big question for this prince.¡±


    Nangong Xun¡¯s eyes flashed: ¡°Yesterday, Imperial Physician Zhang had mentioned that he was lacking a medicine tester. How about sending her to Imperial Zhang as a tester?¡±


    ¡°Good idea. Let¡¯s do it like that!¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi rose from his seat, the corner of his mouth drawing a perfect curve and said: ¡°My mood has worsened after seeing these uncouth people. It would be better to see this prince¡¯s imperial concubine.¡±


    Seeing that their Prince was departing, the imperial bodyguards all respectfully bent their waists to send him off.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi walked a few steps before remembering something and instructed the palace eunuch that was following him: ¡°Qu Gao, go to the Ruan residence; it is the third door on Min An Street. Have the wet nurse bring the child to the princely residence and also send the Princess¡¯s two male servants together on a carriage here. Listen, you must be courteous; if I find out you have offended someone, you can just follow that group to Da Jue Mountain.¡±


    He knew that the servants of the princely residence relied on the awe-inspiring authority of their Master and did not place commoners in their eyes. Thus, he specially instructed him this one time.


    Qu Gao hurriedly responded: ¡°Prince, this small one will surely do one¡¯s utmost and will absolutely not dare to humiliate Prince.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi left Hua Yu Ping and strode towards Wang You Hall. His beloved concubine must no longer meet with mishap, and he turned around to request a few days of leave from his Emperor-Father. He did not have to attend the morning court and as for military affairs, he would first have the deputy general manage them.


    He returned to the study and wrote a memorial for a leave of absence before handing it to a palace eunuch to present it in the palace. Finished with this, he returned to the bedroom. His wife had already woken and seemed to be in deep thought.


    ¡°Still thinking of the nastiness in the prison?¡±


    Ruan Zhu shook her head: ¡°I¡­¡­¡± Her voice was still hoarse.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi picked up the teapot on the side table and poured a cup of lukewarm water before circling his arm around her neck and helping her drink some of it.


    Ruan Zhu felt a little better: ¡°I want you to help me investigate a person. That person seems to be called¡­¡­Called Zhao Hai¡­¡­¡± When Steward Wang was at death¡¯s door, what had he choked out? But why did this name seem so familiar as if she had heard it somewhere before?


    She had transmigrated for over a year now and the people she had met were limited. Starting from when she had first crossed over, she started to think of the disabled people by her side. Rifling through her memories, there was only one person that satisfied this condition. Wasn¡¯t Yun family¡¯s Fifth Concubine-Father Zhao¡¯s son, who had sought asylum from the south, called this name? Hai¡¯er, Zhao Hai.


    At Liu Zhou, while repairing the river dike, his leg had broke and he had walked for half a year with a lame leg.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s head felt dizzy. The disabled stepson of her father from her previous world had died, and after transmigrating, still could not escape becoming lame and had unexpectedly been this involved with her.


    When did he transmigrate? Was it in Liu Zhou when he was repairing the dike and the carriage had flipped over, breaking his leg? Furthermore, he was also like her in that they carried some of the previous soul¡¯s memories, otherwise how could he have known where to find the Yun family manor?


    She had felt a little peculiar when she had seen Hai¡¯er through the carriage window outside the Yun family manor. Was that because the deep injury she had sustained in the previous world had left such a lasting mark that it had been engraved into her soul even after transmigration?


    Half a year. Her father¡¯s crippled stepson had died mere seconds before her yet had crossed over half a year earlier. This person that made her disgusted, no matter if it was the him from the past life or the him in this life. She must think of a way to have him disappear from this world; otherwise, it was uncertain just how tragic her life would become.


    [a] Öé¹â±¦Æø The Gem of Life is a 2008 Hong Kong TV series centered around three sisters and, as far as I can tell from the Wikipedia synopsis, about a bunch of socialites. (Wikipedia)


    [b] Phrase/slang meaning a family is super duper poor. ¡®Can¡¯t open the pot¡¯ could come from 1) the pot never being used so the lid and the pot itself rusted together, or 2) because they have no food, they are too embarrassed to open the pot.

 Chapter 68

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    She thought about Steward Wang¡¯s death. If her conjecture was correct, then she should be in a state of danger. How should this disaster be dealt with? With Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s capability, killing a few commoners was incredibly easy, but she could not have him kill the other without reason and must first find an excuse.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s expression was complicated, and her eyes were filled with exhaustion. Her lips faintly pressed against each other as she thought of how she should bring up this matter with her Lord Husband. It didn¡¯t matter if that man was or wasn¡¯t Hai¡¯er; he was still a threat to her.


    ¡°Wife, do you have something on your mind?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that her eyebrows were tightly knit, and he sat down next to the bed, picking up both her and the brocade quilt with his large hands that were like palm-leaf fans and placing her on his lap.


    ¡°That Zhao Hai is Lu Yin Ge¡¯s great master of tea manufacturing, but I don¡¯t know why he killed Steward Wang. I just so happened to pass by and saw that he wanted to silence him. Fortunately, I promptly escaped to be able to to save this life.¡± Was this excuse considered incredibly lousy? But it was truly the most rational pretext Ruan Zhu could think of presently: ¡°Steward Wang was previously Eldest Cousin¡¯s steward but was later kicked out by me because he gambled.¡±


    ¡°En, I have previously heard Elder Jia mentioning an Accountant Wang that had set up the tables. He had said that not long after the man had arrived in the capital, he had somehow made a name for himself. Who would have thought he would unexpectedly be killed by the master tea maker?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyebrows curved upwards as she gazed at him, a little puzzled: ¡°Isn¡¯t Elder Jia your father?¡± Recalling how the servants called him ¡®Prince,¡¯ uneasiness suddenly formed in her heart. As the number one of out Lan Zhou¡¯s famous Four Great Misters, it was very possible that Lu Piao Xiang, whose reputation spread out far and wide, was not that simple.


    The corner of Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s mouth lightly rose and he smiled: ¡°Regardless of my origin, it will never be something that can hurt you. After two days when you have recovered, I will explain everything. Right now, do not let your imagination wild; it is more important to overcome this illness.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s two thin and straight eyebrows slightly wrinkled as she reluctantly agreed. Speaking so much, her throat once again burned with pain so she waited for a moment before lowly saying: ¡°My intuition is saying that I am very familiar with Zhao Hai¡¯s appearance. He appears to be the son of the Yun family¡¯s Fifth Concubine-Father Zhao. If so, he has stayed in Eldest Cousin¡¯s Tian Yi Pavilion before and perhaps thee was some discord for him to then run to the capital.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi felt that his wife seemed to be afraid of this man called Zhao Hai and comforted her: ¡°You are now my wife. Even if there are ten Zhao Hai¡¯s, I will have him completely disappear.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was not that satisfied with that answer. What she wanted was for that man to immediately disappear, without any opportunity for him to live and to not discover her secret and blab about it before his death. Since having Zhi Xi, she had started to especially cherish life and was unwilling for her son to be like her¨Cwithout a mother at an early age. She wanted to see her child grow up every day under her love and nurture, until the day he wed a wife, had a child, and settled down.


    Since it was more inconvenient for her Lord Husband, she would continue thinking.


    As she was currently being hugged by him along with the quilt, she was soon covered in sweat. Ruan Zhu protested playfully: ¡°Are you trying to take someone¡¯s life on such a sweltering summer day? It¡¯s too hot.¡±


    ¡°You have not yet recovered from your illness so care must be taken.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi thought for a moment before freeing her arms from within the blankets: ¡°I have sent men to bring Zhi Xi and Nuan Chun and the others over. It is possible they may be on the road right this moment.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes immediately brightened. Wrapping both her arms around him, she took the initiative to offer up her red lips.


    ¡°I knew doing this would make my wife happy.¡±


    After a while, several palace eunuchs entered to serve the meal. Ruan Zhu did not understand¨Cthey had just finished eating less than two sichens earlier and they were eating again? But Xuanyuan Zong Zhi argued with the force of his convictions, saying his son was hungry and she ought to think about her child¡¯s needs as a qualified mother.


    The child was only a little over a month and had yet to even take form, hmm?! Ruan Zhu had refuted his words but could only allow him to feed her, one mouthful at a time. After the meal, it was again time for medicine. It was at this moment that she became aware that the ¡®chen jie cai lu¡® medicine she was taking was unexpectedly an ¡®ancient antibiotic¡¯ that she had seen before on a TV program. She elatedly started thinking of a day to send someone to Jiang Nan to buy the prescription from the Buddhist temple in Tian Ning district. If she opened a factory, wouldn¡¯t that be a gold fountain?


    When Zhi Xi was brought over, it was as if he had somehow been wronged, as large tears dripped out while he waved his small fists as he looked for his mother to hold him. Worried she would pass on her cold, Ruan Zhu cast her own tears far behind her for a moment and let the wet nurse take him to rest in the already prepared room.


    Nuan Chun was still recuperating at Elder Jia¡¯s home and had not returned to the residence. Ruan Yu and Nuan Qing had brought over all of her clothes and personal belongings and as soon as they caught sight of her, Ruan Yu ran to hug her sister while tears dripped down. She sobbed: ¡°Elder Jia had only sent a message saying Eldest Sister had met a friend of Eldest Cousin¡¯s while outside and was going to stay at that friend¡¯s place for a few days. It was only until just now when Qu Gao mentioned it that we knew Big Sister had met with mishap.¡±


    In her previous world, Ruan Zhu was an only child and had never experienced the affection between siblings, thus was helpless against the other. She laughed: ¡°It¡¯s just a little cold and aren¡¯t I much better? Younger Sister¡¯s tears fall so easily; they¡¯re not cherished at all.¡±


    Ruan Yu had been bantered with but her tears still had yet to dry: ¡°It is fortunate that nothing happened to Eldest Sister. Mother has left, Father has also gone to Lan Zhou; right now there is only the two of us at home. Eldest Sister must never meet with mishap again.¡±


    There was still Third Concubine-Father and his two children in the Ruan home, but Ruan Yu had never considered those concubine-born children as being related to her.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that the two sisters had much to say to each other. He instructed the servants to carefully wait upon them before personally striding out of Wang You Hall.


    Ruan Yu looked at the back of the departing figure and said in a small voice towards Ruan Zhu: ¡°Eldest Sister, you are truly blessed and have actually become the respected and honorable Princess of Qi. If Papa were to know of this, who knows how ecstatic he would be.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was startled and stared blankly at her.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    ¡°Prince, His Third Highness requests an audience.¡± Nangong Xun walked over to report.


    His Third Highness; Xuanyuan Min Zhi.


    Ever since that day when Ruan Zhu had been brought back to the residence, that despicable fellow had relied on him and used the princely Qi residence as his own rear court. How he had swindled over food and drink wouldn¡¯t be calculated, but he also wanted Imperial Physician Zhang to treat his poison. Those assassins from Nan Ling that had chased him had previously even left a spy at the entrance of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence. Nangong Xun hated that he had caused his Prince to lose face and led men to bring back the head of the informer. After that, the entrance became peaceful.


    From Elder Jia¡¯s mouth, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi knew that his wife being arrested was entirely because of this Third Brother¡¯s dirty tricks. Although the latter had later escaped from prison with her, it still could not excuse his absolutely disgraceful behavior.


    ¡°Take him to Hua Yu Ping. I will wait there.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi arrived at Hua Yu Ping and saw his Fifth Brother sitting in front of a rosewood table, leisurely enjoying the flowers, refreshments, and tea, not even sparing a single glance to look sideways out of the corner of his eyes, let alone inviting him to have some tea. But he had always been easy-mannered and the skin on his face had always been extremely thick. There was no need for the other to issue an invitation. He simply sat down, and seeing there was no cup that could be classified as his on the table, snatched the one in the other¡¯s hands, poured a large cup of tea, and downed it: ¡°Good tea.¡±


    ¡°Out with it.¡± Giving him a quick sideways glance, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi coldly spoke.


    ¡°I want to meet Emperor-Father.¡±


    ¡°You wish for Emperor-Father to dispatch the army to Nan Ling to wrest back your position as heir?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi lazily reclined against the chair and closed his eyes for a moment. He slightly raised his head while he slowly proposed: ¡°I can help you pass on these words, but if Emperor-Father does not wish to meet you, that has nothing to do with me.¡±


    Who under the Heavens didn¡¯t know that the eleven sons currently on the Emperor¡¯s knee were all from secondary husbands? How much affection could possibly exist towards a Prince that he had driven out thousands of li away as a child?


    A little bit of despair peeked through on Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s face: ¡°Nan Ling is Tian Chu¡¯s vassal state. His Majesty is unlikely to go as far as to abandon it, right!¡±


    A sneer formed on the corner of Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s mouth and his eyes were filled with deep cynicism: ¡°Tian Chu is currently suffering from bandits and there is a natural disaster in the north. How could there possibly be any inclination to care about the rise and fall of a vassal state? What¡¯s more, the rebels have blocked off the passage, so how can the army be sent to Nan Ling? Don¡¯t tell me you want them to make a detour to Tu Bo?¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s expression was dim. Among all those issues, there was not one that he had not thought of before, yet there had always been a faint trace of hope.


    ¡°No matter what, I want to meet Emperor-Father.¡± He was the same as all of his brothers and had been bestowed the title of ¡®Prince¡¯ soon after birth. But as a result of him being pushed into Nan Ling at a young age, he now had neither a princely residence nor an official¡¯s salary. He had also not even brought a servant with him when he had fled from Nan Ling. All of these issues must be settled by the old Emperor, or else how could he still say he had the identity of the Prince of Yong in Tian Chu? If he had status, then he would have power, and the assassins from Nan Ling would then have to consider who they could afford to enrage before they could make a move.


    ¡°I do not currently have time; perhaps in a few days!¡± He still had to keep his wife company at home. How could he have the time to care about the other¡¯s business?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi left Hua Yu Ping, and thinking of the matter that his wife wanted him to do, summoned Nangong Xun to investigate Lu Yin Ge¡¯s master of tea, Zhao Hai.


    After a few days, Ruan Yu returned to the Ruan residence to take over the responsibility of the Madam of the house. Ruan Zhu had also fundamentally recovered from her illness by that time, and Nuan Chun arrived at the princely residence from Lu Yin Ge to resume his life as a bedwarmer in name only.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s vacation had ended and he began to be busily occupied with responsibilities. However, if he finished his work such that he could return home, then he would absolutely not stay overnight at the barracks.


    The fighting at Cang Huang Mountain was even fiercer than before, and there were casualties on both sides. But with the use of the new weapons, the imperial army had caused the Red Eyebrow army to suffer disastrous losses, and the latter had no choice but to use a human wave attack. As the rebels were full of fervor from their newly-established war regime, they could still maintain the balance of war.


    An unending stream of various goods were transported over¨Cpersonnel; foodstuffs; military devices¡­¡­


    The war was active and did not care about the matters of the common people. Life proceeded as before, and the number of beggars on the streets had somewhat lessened. This was because the Emperor had, at the start of the summer season, provided seeds to allow a substantial group of people to return home and plant with.


    On this night, Ruan Zhu was a little anxious, with the reason being that Steward Chen of the Prince of Qi¡¯s manor was too insolent. He relied on his history of being an old servant of the Empress Dowager to not put her, his Master, into his eyes. And this morning, because of a trivial matter, he had given Nuan Chun a slap on the face.


    She was still infuriated when recalling what happened this morning. When she had asked, it turns out Nuan Chun had been beaten on more than one occasion but continuously endured it silently. Lord Husband had said before that this was her home, so for what reason should a damned slave overpower her?


    This morning, Ruan Zhu had assisted Xuanyuan Zong Zhi before he went to morning court, and because the time was still early, she then slept for another while. Just when she was accompanying Zhi Xi in the morning meal, the sounds of Steward Chen being foul-mouthed transmitted over from the outside courtyard.


    ¡°You¡¯re just a fucking dog slave from a common family and you dare to manage this father¡¯s business. How is this father talking loudly going to disturb her? With the doors closed, your family¡¯s Miss is a Princess, but if she goes outside, who recognizes her? If the Emperor did not write an edict bestowing her a title, she would still just be a simple commoner. At any rate, this father was a popular man under the Empress Dowager¡¯s hands.¡±


    ¡°I forbid you from speaking of my family¡¯s Miss in that way!¡± Nuan Chun was enraged.


    Pa! Nuan Chun had been slapped on the face.


    ¡°Fuck, dog slave, dares to speak this way to this father and have such dog guts. If I don¡¯t slap you a few more times, you won¡¯t have enough brains to learn from your mistake.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had the wet nurse carry Zhi Xi back into his room and calmly strode to the courtyard. Her two eyes fixed onto the humiliator and became dark. In a flash, a furious fire that could not be extinguished ignited.


    This gaze had caused Steward Chen to become greatly alarmed. Bowing his body, he mumbled a few unintelligible words and started to leave.


    But how could Ruan Zhu have allowed him to leave? Striding forward a few steps, she had ruthlessly aimed a slap at his face that was like tree bark and with a lift of her wrist again, gave him two more consecutive slaps to the face. The crisp sound was resounding and her hand trembled with pain after doling out the punishment.


    Steward Chen had been slapped until his face was on fire that burned with pain and anger. Which one of the servants in the palace did not deferentially call him ¡®Eunuch Chen¡¯ when they met him? And presently, he had unexpectedly been thrashed by a mere commoner. But despite his fury, in the end, he still did not dare to be too wanton with the Princess of Qi present.


    Ruan Zhu coldly stared at him and directed towards Nuan Chun: ¡°However many times he has hit you before, return them all back to him. If you miss a single one, you no longer need to follow me in the future and you can just hit the road. I, Ruan Zhu, do not want a cowardly man to be by my side.¡±


    Nuan Chun was stunned silly before his face gradually turned red. As a result of him having been emotionally stirred, his nostrils widened and large bean-sized drops of sweat appeared on his forehead.


    ¡°Both of you come over.¡± Ruan Zhu pointed at Qu Gao and He Gua who were standing by in attendance next to the door and coolly said: ¡°Push this slave that does not know repentance down onto the ground for me.¡±


    Qu Gao and He Gua had long not indulged in Steward Chen¡¯s insolence, and as soon as they received the order, they ran over like a swarm of bees and kicked Steward Chen down. Not saying a word, Nuan Chun advanced two steps and aimed a slap at Steward Chen¡¯s face.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s beautiful brows creased: ¡°Too light. Use strength to violently hit.¡±


    This time, Nuan Chun gathered his courage and then doled out two more slaps.


    Hatred was all over Steward Chen¡¯s face and he viciously aimed his stare over: ¡°You have such large guts to dare hit a Eunuch of the inner palace. I will complain to the Empress Dowager!¡±


    ¡°Nuan Chun, continue.¡± Ruan Zhu thought for a moment. In any case, they have already hit him so why not hit him for their money¡¯s worth? In any case, her Lord Husband was there to support her. Nuan Chun saw that the other had spoken rudely and angered his Miss and increased his strength as he aimed a dozen more slaps over. It was only after Steward Chen had coughed up blood and several of his teeth had fallen out that he considered it to be over.


    Nighttime. It was only after Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had returned from the barracks that he became aware his wife had been wronged. Letting Nangong Xun gather the around one hundred people inside the residence to the courtyard, he then called for several servants to drag Steward Chen over. At this moment, that Steward no longer retained any of his previous might.


    ¡°Prince, niangniang, this slave was wrong. Earlier this slave had drunk some wine and this slave¡¯s head was muddled and said some obscenities. In the future, this slave will surely not spout nonsense.¡± It was at this moment that Steward Chen realized he had been doted on by the Empress Dowager. In the end, he was still a servant and no matter how much power he had, he could never overpower his Masters.


    ¡°It¡¯s late.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi lazily said a sentence. He and his wife sat side by side right in the middle of the courtyard and he indicated to her with a smile: ¡°Wife, your Lord Husband will demand justice for you and let these slaves understand that you are inviolable in this house.¡± Glancing out of the side of his faintly cold eyes, he spit out a word: ¡°Hit!¡±


    Two imperial bodyguards immediately came over and viciously beat Steward Chen. The imperial bodyguards knew martial arts so their strength was not small. Steward Chen¡¯s flesh became lacerated after just two of those hits as he issued wretched howls of pain. Not long after, the howls became fainter and fainter, and finally, there was no sound of activity.


    ¡°Prince, this servant has fainted.¡±


    ¡°Continue hitting.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi insipidly said a sentence.


    The imperial bodyguards lifted up the planks again and ruthlessly slashed them down. Not a short while later, the Steward Chen underneath their boards had become a bloody mess.


    Ruan Zhu could not bear to see this spectacle. The stench of blood assaulted her, courtesy of the wind. Her head whirled and she was so nauseated, she nearly vomited. Face deathly white, she swayed as she rose from her seat, one hand on her chest while the other hand waved about, as if it was trying to drive away the stench of blood.


    ¡°Wife, do not injure my son.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi picked his wife up in a princess carry and headed towards Wang You Hall.


    Not long after they had just returned to Wang You Hall, a palace eunuch came to report that there was a man named Yun Shi Wei who was looking for niangniang.

 Chapter 69

    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi carried his wife back to Wang You Hall and carefully placed her down on the bed. The trauma from the premature birth last year still lingered in his mind and he worriedly said: ¡°How about I send word to Imperial Physician Zhang to come to the residence to give you an examination?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was pale: ¡°It¡¯s just nausea; don¡¯t make it into a big matter. Bring over a few of the strawberries and hawthorns for me to eat and I¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi instructed Qu Gao to bring over the fruits and lifted one to her lips: ¡°In the future, don¡¯t squabble with these slaves. It does no good to our independent baby and the enormous amount of things can be dealt with once I come back.¡±


    Ruan Zhu frowned while eating: ¡°I am afraid today¡¯s matter has offended the Empress Dowager.¡±


    Ruan Yu¡¯s words that day were still in her ear¨CLu Piao Xiang is the Fifth Prince; His Highness, the Prince of Qi, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi.


    Ruan Zhu had heard the servants discussing this title before, but she forgot it as soon as she heard it. This prince and that prince¨Cthere were too many of them in the imperial family, and anyway, whoever controlled the country had not a single thing to do with her. But now it seems that things have changed and her fate was now inseparably linked with the fates of the imperial family.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi did not take it seriously and smiled: ¡°Offense or not, the Empress Dowager is someone you do not need to be concerned with. Just let me handle this. I won¡¯t say anything else, but it is urgent you are bestowed with the title of ¡®Princess¡¯ without delay. With the correct title, you will then be able to stand confidently before others.¡±


    ¡°I know that my status is low. If it is difficult, forget about it. In any case, the title is not something I value.¡± How much of the complicated internal affairs of the imperial family could she understand? Rather than entering that place and become all covered with dirt, wouldn¡¯t it be better to just stay a commoner? In comparison, she valued the rather simple lifestyle she had before where there was no war and there were not nearly as many worries.


    ¡°Eating too many fruits is not good for your stomach. In a bit, I will have the kitchen serve up some main dishes and you can choose however much you want to eat.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi indicated for a palace eunuch to take the fruit plate away.


    The palace eunuchs had served their Master for a very long time and could understand with just one glance. Bending their waists, they then complied with what their Master had ordered.


    Ruan Zhu had not yet eaten enough and helplessly looked on as the plate of fruit was taken away. She thought: Why was Xuanyuan Zong Zhi the same as Yun Shi Yi to even restrict snacks?


    Her first husband¡¯s gentle demeanor and ** slid into her thoughts, and her eyes filled with longing. It has been half a year since he left, right? Who knows how he was doing now? She had received several letters already. They all said that everything was fine and for her to be at ease, but how exactly was she supposed to do that?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi knew his wife¡¯s mind had flown away again. Leaning over, he placed a kiss on her lips and stretched a hand into her lapel to hold one of her plump mounds, causing a ** and limp sort of feeling to circulate through their blood vessels and spreading through his entire body. His deep eyes gradually became misty and filled with desire.


    Ever since she had gotten ill, he had patiently endured, and this was quite an unlikely feat for a robust man in his prime. However¡­¡­¡±Lord Husband, I am pregnant, hmm?¡± She whispered a reminder.


    ¡°I have asked Imperial Physician Zhang, and as long as we are more careful during the act and pay attention to the depth, there will be no problems.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was speechless out of embarrassment for a moment: ¡°So you can even ask these sort of questions out loud. But, I wonder if His Highness, the Prince of Qi, experienced embarrassment?¡±


    ¡°I do not feel embarrassed when I do that with my wife, so why would I feel that way when going out and asking questions about it? Besides, Imperial Physician Zhang is an experienced person. Your husband is a great man able to support both heaven and earth and feeling embarrassed or shy is something that is beneath me.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi lowly laughed. Both hands grabbed the lapel of her pale pink muslin top and pushed them to either side, exposing her white and dewy chest. He found the belt and undid it. The perfect bosom of the young married woman was right in front of him. Ever since Zhi Xi had been birthed, the pair of full breasts had become even plumper and more attractive, and the two red dots were also tender and lovely.


    He lowered his head to suck on a plum. A light bite and he immediately became drunk¡­¡­


    ¡°Prince, a report from the gate says there is a man called Yun Shi Wei who is looking for niangniang.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s soul trembled and her amazed eyes widened: ¡°Eldest Cousin!¡± She shouted as she shot out of the bed, straightening her lapel. But unexpectedly, the more she tried to do so, the more sloppy it became. ¡°Wife, don¡¯t be hasty.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi sighed and helped her rearrange herself. If she also placed him this highly in her heart someday, then he would be immediately willing to resign himself to death.


    Ruan Zhu ran outside in a hurry, so impatient that she had even worn the wrong shoe on each foot.


    He was afraid to be separated from her in case she fell and closely followed to protect her.


    Even though it was evening, the lights in the princely residence lit up the manor as if it was daytime. Ruan Zhu could see very clearly that outside the veranda, there was a man with a tall and strong figure with a distinctly sharp countenance as if a knife had been at work¡­¡­His entire body radiated with a lofty air like a pine at a precipice, but it was not Yun Shi Yi though their appearances were identical.


    ¡°Spouse.¡± The man yelled out as in a flash, the corners of his eyes became moist.


    Ruan Zhu carefully looked him over, then raised her head as her gaze went behind him, impatiently searching through the night time landscape for the man in her memories, yet saw nothing at all. Her teardrops glistening, she bit her lip before quietly asking: ¡°Did Eldest Cousin not come?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Brother didn¡¯t come.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s footsteps staggered a moment and disappointed tears flowed down her face. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi held her up from the back: ¡°Wife, be careful.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s face was full of yearning: ¡°Spouse, Eldest Brother wants me to take you and Zhi Xi back to our hometown of Lan Zhou. He has bought an enormous piece of land on the banks of Lan River that is currently in the middle of construction. Eldest Brother says it¡¯s something you said before, of growing Chinese parasol trees and xiangfei bamboo in a garden where all kinds of beautiful flowers will be planted. Whatever exists, there will be; along with pavilions and kiosks. It will be a garden with mountains and water.¡±


    That¡¯s right, she had also said that when they were in a good mood, they could take the children out of the noisy city to wander around the garden. And then she would buy a very large and beautiful ship, and together with you and the children, go sightseeing as much as we liked on the river; following the river, going wherever we wanted to.


    Yun Shi Wei ran towards her and pulled Ruan Zhu in for a hug, choked with emotion: ¡°Spouse, I really missed you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was lost in thought: ¡°I also missed you both.¡±


    The night had become darker and the wind slightly moved, causing the old willow tree by the side to make noise. Yun Shi Wei lifted her horizontally: ¡°Spouse, I¡¯ll take you home and early the next morning, we¡¯ll leave for Lan Zhou.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s heart tensed and he coldly refused: ¡°She is pregnant and cannot leave.¡± He murmured into her ear: ¡°Wife, have you forgotten how dangerous last year¡¯s delivery was? Returning to Lan Zhou can wait during this period. When the child has been born, this husband will accompany you back.¡±


    Ruan Zhu looked at him in astonishment: ¡°The military is in your hands and you are the cornerstone of the imperial court. How could you leave simply because you said you¡¯d leave?¡±


    But Xuanyuan Zong Zhi could not publicly announce the Emperor¡¯s long-formed plan to move the capital to Lan Zhou and gently said: ¡°Wife, you are pregnant and must take care to rest. When we are in the room, I will carefully tell you.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± Ruan Zhu turned towards Yun Shi Wei and squeezed out a smile: ¡°Second Cousin, put me down.¡±


    ¡°Spouse, I worry you will fall, so just let me carry you, okay!¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was focused and was unable to take his eyes off of her. He abruptly turned around and walked towards the gate where a carriage from the Ruan residence was parked. The coachman saw that his Master had exited and extended a hand to open the carriage door.


    ¡°Second Cousin, you¡¯ve gone in the wrong direction.¡± Ruan Zhu saw that he was carrying her outside and couldn¡¯t help but to become puzzled.


    ¡°It¡¯s not wrong. Spouse, I¡¯ve come to take you back to Uncle¡¯s home.¡±


    Returning to the Ruan residence; how could one leave after saying ¡®leave¡¯! Zhi Xi was still sleeping inside. How could she abandon her child to leave by herself?


    ¡°She is not going anywhere. The Prince of Qi¡¯s residence is precisely her home.¡± A person¡¯s silhouette flashed and Xuanyuan Zong Zhi blocked the carriage door, his eyes frigid.


    Yun Shi Wei had always had a disposition that feared nothing on Heaven or earth and he grimly laughed: ¡°I don¡¯t care whether you are Lu Piao Xiang or His Highness, the Prince of Qi. Secondary husbands must adhere to the rules of the secondary husbands. In my Yun family, I am the second husband, and you are the third. According to custom, you must listen to and obey my words.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi faced the insolent man in front of him and coldly enunciated: ¡°What if I, this number three, were to outstrip the elder and kicked you away?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s temper rose: ¡°Want to fight? Who fears who?¡±


    Did this count as two men rivaling for a woman¡¯s affection? Ruan Zhu immediately felt a headache coming. It was impossible to soothe Yun Shi Wei as this guy had a stubborn temper. What¡¯s more, they had been separated for almost half a year and she didn¡¯t want him to be wronged right when he came back. She could only try to persuade Xuanyuan Zong Zhi: ¡°Lord¡­¡­Big Brother Lu, I will return to stay in the Ruan residence for a few days. Tomorrow morning, tell Nuan Chun to bring Zhi Xi back.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes were sad as he unblocked the carriage door, said a few words towards the imperial bodyguard behind him, and followed his wife into the Ruan residence¡¯s carriage.


    Afterwards, the coachman flung his whip with a resounding crack and the carriage galloped towards the Ruan residence at a pace that was neither urgent nor slow.


    Ruan Zhu was still being held by Yun Shi Wei, but feeling that Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was unhappy, she placed her hand inside his own large one¡­¡­He gripped her soft hand, his desolate heart seemingly having been crammed full of her consideration, and softly said: ¡°Wife, you don¡¯t have to worry, I have instructed servants to bring the child to the Ruan residence tomorrow.¡±


    Ruan Zhu made a sound of understanding. Her eyes were gentle and she seemed thoughtful, like she was still thinking of the topic of Yun Shi Yi wanting her to return to Lan Zhou.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was afraid that that was exactly what she was thinking of and gave her an explanation: ¡°No matter what the situation at Cang Huang Mountain is, the capital must shift to Lan Zhou because the distance from Jiang Nan to here is too far and it is difficult to transport foodstuffs. In the summer during the flood season of the Yangtze River, the waterways cannot be used, and the financial and physical resources required for land transport is grossly tremendous. The imperial court has frequently been hard pressed about the issue of foodstuffs.¡±


    ¡°How long will that be?¡±


    ¡°No matter how long, you must nevertheless first deliver the child, and then we can talk. You being pregnant while attempting such a long and difficult journey is simply playing with your life. If Yun Shi Yi knew this, he would absolutely not agree to you harming yourself this way.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei placed Ruan Zhu on his lap, a trace of accusation in his eyes: ¡°Spouse, we have long talked about how you were going to give me a child. Why is it his turn first?¡±


    Ruan Zhu rolled her eyes: ¡°As a matter of fact, I would like to birth you a child, but where were you? Can I get pregnant on my own?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s easy. When we return to Lan Zhou, I¡¯ll accompany you every day.¡± Yun Shi Wei looked towards his wife¡¯s alluring red mouth and moved his head over but ended up kissing her delicate and small hand; it turns out she had used her hand to block him. He immediately started sucking on one of her fingers and mumbled while he tasted her: ¡°Spouse, relax, I have continuously followed your instruction and brushed my teeth and bathed every day. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can look at my teeth that are much whiter than before.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei opened his lips for her to see. The teeth were indeed white, and the scent on his body was also fresher. Him saying that he had bathed every day should not be false. To continue to refuse seemed unreasonable so she tilted her face towards him, and he immediately planted a kiss down on her lips.


    When they arrived at the Ruan residece, it was already very late, and the second sister, Ruan Yu, had long fallen asleep.


    Ruan Zhu was carried by Yun Shi Wei back to the Yi Xin Residence she had stayed at before, with Xuanyuan Zong Zhi gloomily following behind.


    ¡°Second Cousin, tell me the situation at Lan Zhou. Eldest Cousin is all right, right?¡±


    She was lying down between the two men¨Cher head on Yun Shi Wei¡¯s arm while her waist was being gripped by Xuanyuan Zong Zhi.


    The author has something to say: The word count is lacking; I¡¯ll make it up next time. I really don¡¯t have time as after the holiday, I need to visit relatives.

 Chapter 70

    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s right hand was around his wife; his left played with her full breasts while his crow-black eyes were full of infatuation. He only responded after a good while: ¡°After returning to Lan Zhou, Eldest Brother took care of the matters of business while helping Maternal Uncle open shops and I followed him in both ventures to gain experience. Uncle¡¯s shops are numerous¨Cthere are some based on jewels and precious stones; on silk; on porcelain; on restaurants; and there¡¯s also two pawn shops. Eldest Brother has many acquaintances in Lan Zhou and has a wide network. Many things require him to personally run them. He¡¯s so busy, his feet often don¡¯t touch the ground and he is unable to sleep at night. However, he has always thought of you and not long after, bought a large seven courtyard compound on the banks of the Lan River that, after going through renovations, is even more beautiful than when it was first constructed. It¡¯s only waiting for you to move in. It wasn¡¯t until last month when the majority of the work was put in order that I was sent to the capital to bring you and Zhi Xi back to our old home, saying to take advantage of the weather still being warm to hurry and go as going on a journey when it¡¯s cold is more difficult.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were covered up by a layer of fog. Her waist tightened¨Cit was Xuanyuan Zong Zhi who had hugged her from the back. Slighting turning her head, she caught sight of his eyes that were brimming with concern.


    She inwardly sighed. To be the wife of three men and not leaning in any direction was rather difficult. But now that she was currently pregnant, she was afraid that if she wanted to return, it would have to wait until the first month of the next year when the child had been born.


    ¡°Spouse, do you still remember that thing?¡± Yun Shi Wei smiled triumphantly and sat up excitedly from the bed as he picked up Ruan Zhu with a lift of his arms and placed her in his lap.


    ¡°Remember what?¡±


    ¡°When we were at the southern border and you wanted Eldest Brother to stockpile food. After that, Eldest Brother wrote a letter home. The letter was sent back to the Yun family manor and Father and Mother attached special importance to it. The silver wasn¡¯t enough so they borrowed a large sum from a relative and spent a good amount to buy foodstuffs so that the warehouses at home were all bursting. They also rented a few more storehouses and filled those completely. When we were returning to Lan Zhou from the capital, it happened to coincide with the most critical period of the famine. The monsoons continued without stopping and farmlands in many places flooded. Because of the previous year¡¯s drought, the harvest also was not good and the commoners long had nothing to eat, and more and more refugees fled to Lan Zhou. Prices rose several times and the price of grain soared even more without restraint. Complaints were openly voiced and many commoners reached the point where they were forced to eat tree bark. At this time, Eldest Brother came out under the Yun family name to stabilize the market and sold the grain at a price that was higher than when it was originally bought. Not only did we profit well, the loan was paid back in full, and he also gained a good reputation.¡±


    There was no news that could be better than this. Ruan Zhu remained silent as she smiled, full of joy, and listened attentively.


    In the midst of his jealousy, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was pleased. He was both jealous of the attention and emotion she gave Yun Shi Yi, but seeing her happy, his heart felt gratified. At this moment, he did not want to disturb her. Draping a cloak over himself, he stepped to the outer courtyard, instructed servants to prepare bath water, and then grabbed a book and sat in front of the window, from time to time glancing at the figures inside.


    ¡°Spouse, you don¡¯t know this, but in Lan Zhou, as long as you mention Yun Shi Yi, there is not one person who does not know him. They all say he has the heart of Buddha and is their great hero of salvation. Even those government officials are polite and respectful when they see Eldest Brother.¡±


    On the contrary, when Ruan Zhu heard this, she was not too happy. When things reach an extreme, they can only move in the opposite direction¨Cwith so many eyes looking at him, showing off too much was not a good thing, right?


    But everything had two sides. Since Yun Shi Yi was now an influential person among the commoners, if government officials wanted to move against him, they would still have to first consider how the general public would react. No matter what type of business one was in, if one lost the popular sentiment, then one¡¯s good road would not be long.


    ¡°Before Eldest Brother appeared to stabilize the market, there were multiple local grain merchants who imported grains at high prices from elsewhere just waiting to make a large profit. But as soon as Eldest Brother moved, he caused them to lose all of their savings and have no return on their plans. The foodstuffs in their hands could not be sold, and one also doesn¡¯t know which wind it was that blew information over, saying the imperial court was transporting over large quantities of grain to Lan Zhou.¡± Yun Shi Wei foolishly chuckled heh heh and forcefully planted a kiss on his wife¡¯s face: ¡°To be honest, that was false. The rumor of the carriages transporting grain were rumors that Eldest Brother had circulated. What each of the multiple carriages that were heading towards the city carried was not food¨Cthey were bags and bags of sand. But those big grain merchants lost their heads in panic and because they were afraid that the foodstuffs in their possession would become moldy after such a long time, could only sell them at market value. Yet at this time, Eldest Brother pushed the price of grain down even further and the big grain merchants could only clench their teeth and swallow their blood and use that same price to sell their grain. Then, Eldest Brother invested and bought all of their supply and then resold them at appropriate prices. When the merchants had understood what happened, it was all too late.¡±


    Ruan Zhu happily laughed, but couldn¡¯t help but to be a little worried: ¡°Those men definitely hate Eldest Brother to death.¡±


    Indifference was all over Yun Shi Wei¡¯s face: ¡°Those grain merchants of ill-conscience have suffered tremendous losses. In addition, there were also some merchants that had borrowed money from relatives to buy their stock. Selling off their grains at a low price wasn¡¯t enough to pay back the debt, and they have become so poor they had to sell their homes and land and eat watery gruel. They actually want to retaliate against Eldest Brother but they do not have the ability. But this isn¡¯t considered over¡­..¡±


    ¡°Not considered over?¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s bright eyes were like water, exposing her interest: ¡°What else is there?¡±


    ¡°There are still a few large grain merchants whose family¡¯s capital is still sound even though they had compensated quite a bit. But even a camel that¡¯s starving is bigger than a horse, and their circumstances aren¡¯t considered bad. Lacking in morality, they actually commissioned assassins¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Commissioned assassins?¡± Ruan Zhu involuntarily cried out and both her hands grabbed Yun Shi Wei¡¯s arm: ¡°How is Eldest Cousin; has something happened?!¡±


    The heart of Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, who was in the outer room, tightened. He first considered whether his wife would be upset; he only wanted her to be happy. Since she cared that much for Yun Shi Yi, that man must live. It would just the same as when he had sent people to Nan Ling through Tu Bo to escort him back to Yu Zhou.


    ¡°Spouse, don¡¯t be frightened, nothing will happen to Eldest Brother.¡± Yun Shi Wei¡¯s thoughts were simple. He loved Ruan Zhu and it was a love that was with his entire heart and soul, no matter who it was that was in her thoughts. Even if her heart did not have him, it didn¡¯t matter. It was enough as long as he loved her. ¡°People with good intentions have helped out financially. Someone has betrayed Eldest Brother and it isn¡¯t just one. After Eldest Brother found out, he made preparations and the grain merchants did not obtain even the slightest advantage. Contrary to expectations, the assassins came and easily made themselves targets. There¡¯s no need for me to say how satisfying that was.¡±


    Ruan Zhu released her breath. After being so worried, her mind was a mess. With Yun Shi Yi¡¯s thoughts and methods, how could he have been at a disadvantage and suffered a loss?


    ¡°Not long after, Eldest Brother had completely investigated all of the horrible things the big grain merchants, who had bought the assassins, had done, and let the families of the victims bring the case to the yamen. Eldest Brother once again played a role in the middle and the verdict was that all the bad people were punished according to the law without any exceptions.¡± Speaking to here, Yun Shi Wei guffawed again, his entire face brimming with pride and worship towards Yun Shi Yi.


    Yet Ruan Zhu could no longer laugh. Her Lord Husband unexpectedly had such skill; she was both rueful and proud of him.


    Zhi Xi, her child¡¯s father was actually that outstanding.


    The eyes of Xuanyuan Zong Zhi in the outer room were firm. He must become the most outstanding man in the country of Tian Chuso that his wife would feel the same amount of pride towards him.


    ¡°Spouse, I have been helping Eldest Brother and have met all sorts of people, experienced all kinds of things, and understand many principles. I won¡¯t be like before, always making you angry.¡±


    ¡°You sometimes really do make me angry, so angry that I want to hit you.¡± Ruan Zhu used her hand to point at his chest, and then burst out laughing, her bright eyes watching him. Yun Shi Wei was precisely this kind of simple person without that many fancy and complicated thoughts. Perhaps, that was precisely one of the qualities that attracted her!


    Yun Shi Wei chuckled and lowered his head to kiss her. Coming into contact with her soft and sweet small tongue, the sensation that transmitted over immediately made him crazy. He couldn¡¯t help but to deepen the kiss, one hand supporting her back while one hand wandered around her chest, going wherever he pleased, the tips of his fingers feeling as if they were on fire.


    His hand continued to move further down, and the place at her chest was sucked into his mouth. After he sucked for a while, he flicked his eyes upwards: ¡°Why is there no milk?¡±


    Milk. How could these men be of the same conduct?


    ¡°It has long stopped.¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was full of black lines but immediately became engrossed under his teasing.


    He laid her flat on the bed and lifted up her two legs, then lowered his head, placing a kiss on a woman¡¯s most sensitive area¡­¡­


    ¡°Second Cousin!¡± Her body felt as if an electric current was running through it¨Cunspeakably difficult to bear yet also unspeakably pleasurable. Both her hands gripped the bed sheets and all of her attention was on the man that was kissing her body. She didn¡¯t even notice that another man had walked inside the bedroom until that man had climbed atop the bed and buried his head in her chest. She then finally saw that it was the Xuanyuan Zong Zhi that had just left the room.


    ¡°Big Brother Lu¡­¡­¡± She bit her lip, squeezing three words between her teeth. Her hands moved and gripped his energetic little brother at his crotch.


    ¡°Wife, you¡¯re aroused. This husband will make you even more comfortable.¡±


    ¡°You are too. Here is so large.¡± Her small hand slightly tightened. He sucked in a breath but became even more unable to resist, a fire seemingly ignited in his body. His mouth became even more enthusiastic in its actions and his other hand grabbed onto the other peak and continuously teased it.


    ¡°Nnnahh!¡± The kisses at her secret place suddenly sped up. Both her legs tightened and pressed against the neck in the middle. The moist and hot sensation intensely stimulating and that soft tongue was still continuously licking back and forth. One finger entered her body, gently sliding in between her petals. Wherever it went, shivers soon followed.


    ¡°Second Cousin¡­¡­Big Brother Lu¡­¡­¡± Delicate moans continuously spilled out of her mouth.


    The man that was kissing her chest abruptly increased his strength and bit a bud, gently pulling it. At the same time, the hand that was currently pinching her other bead also increased its force. The man underneath her inserted another finger and used both of them to draw a circle inside her; he forcefully hooked and firmly prodded¡­¡­


    ¡°Ahhhhh!¡­¡­¡± She screamed, her brain a piece of white. A gigantic current passed to the nerves in her legs and her feet couldn¡¯t help but to repeatedly kick against the back of the man underneath her. Her entire body experienced unspeakable pleasure and she had completely flown into the Heavens.


    Yun Shi Wei lifted up his head from her crotch and looked at her with eyes brimming with love: ¡°Spouse, I have previously done a lot of wrong things, making you suffer multiple times. I vow that I will make you happy in the future.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was still in the aftermath of the pleasure, and her body was still twitching from the climax. It was a good while before she recovered yet her entire body was relaxed and peaceful and light. She sat up and used a handkerchief to wipe the thing that could be classified as the proof of her arousal from his face. She moved closer for a deep kiss and then turned her head to also kiss Xuanyuan Zong Zhi.


    ¡°Second Cousin, actually, you can use your body to do it. You just have to be a little gentler and lighter, that¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Spouse, I won¡¯t do that thing while you are pregnant. I don¡¯t want to hurt you.¡± Yun Shi Wei stubbornly shook his head. His two eyes remained full of desire, but he refuse to pay attention to the little brother that was standing at attention at his crotch.


    Ah, this idiot! Ruan Zhu unconsciously smiled.


    ¡°Lie down.¡± She pushed him onto the bed and crawled over to straddle his waist. Aiming for his large member, she lowered her body and then slowly moved up and down.


    ¡°Ohhh¡­¡­Spouse, you will become tired like this. Let me be on top.¡±


    Ruan Zhu did not respond. The place where they were inseparably linked caused her entire body to tingle.


    ¡°Wife, this husband has come to help you.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was worried she would overexert and injure herself. Holding her in his embrace, both of his hands exerted force and helped her move. Seeing that fascinating small red mouth open that was utterly alluring, he lowered his head for a kiss.


    Her hand traveled down. Reaching his thing that had swelled to an outrageous degree, she suggested to change positions.


    He let go of her. Spreading open his two legs, she knelt down between them and leaned over to kiss him with her mouth. Her white derriere were raised high, presenting themselves to the Yun Shi Wei behind.


    Immense passion simultaneously tormented and relieved the three individuals. The roars of the men accompanied the screams of the woman as they all flew together towards the pinnacle of happiness and arousal.

 Chapter 71

    After their bath, they returned to the bedroom and the three people fell into a deep slumber while embracing each other.


    Yun Shi Wei and Xuanyuan Zong Zhi woke up at the first glimmers of light as they did not have the habit of lazily staying in bed.


    One went to temper his body and circled around the front of the courtyard to the back of the rooms several times as he practiced several rounds of Chinese boxing, allowing his muscles to stretch and loosen.


    The other originally should have gone to morning court but sent someone to request a leave of absence for one day with the justification being he caught a cold. The men at his side all knew that the Great General Xuanyuan had never even sneezed before. ¡®Caught a cold¡¯¨Cwho was he trying to fool!


    Ruan Zhu was still fast asleep. Performing such strenuous physical activities last night added with how she was currently pregnant made it hard for her to escape from becoming extremely tired.


    But Ruan Yu had heard that her eldest sister had returned and was so delighted she didn¡¯t even eat breakfast and directly ran to Yi Xin Residence. Her nature was one that was rather rushed, and as soon as she arrived, she tore off the other¡¯s blanket: ¡°Eldest Sister, how could you return alone? Quickly bring over my little nephew for me to play with.¡±


    If Ruan Zhu was clear-headed, she would definitely say, When did Little Zi Xi become your toy?


    She immediately became bewildered at having had her blankets pulled off. Rubbing her eyes, she clearly saw the person before her and them lowered her head to look at her own clothes. Fortunately, her two husbands had not forgotten to dress her properly before they rose this morning. She mumbled towards Ruan Yu: ¡°I haven¡¯t slept enough and didn¡¯t I tell you that when you come over, you have to knock? Nuan Chun, why did you also not first inform me?¡± She remembered after she said that that Nuan Chun was still in the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence.


    ¡°Eldest Sister has become muddled from all of that sleep. There isn¡¯t anyone guarding the door outside.¡±


    ¡°No one on guard means you can walk in as you please? If¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu nearly blurted out everything. If a husband and wife pair were in the middle of displaying affection for each other and you rushed in and saw, wouldn¡¯t that make the others want to die of embarrassment and shame? The words were right on the tip of her tongue but she hastily swallowed them and corrected herself: ¡°With such an impatient and unthinking nature, when you marry into your mother-in-law¡¯s family, wouldn¡¯t you be endlessly scolded?¡± Some of her previous world¡¯s habits were truly unacceptable here; they could only be used with some of her more carefree college friends.


    Ruan Yu snorted: ¡°This lady does not value that sort of evil mother-in-law, hmph! If she dares to criticize me or order me around, I¡¯ll sell her son off to some brothel to receive guests and I¡¯ll live unfettered with my secondary husbands.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were wide. How had she not seen that this younger sister of hers was awfully avant-garde? ¡°What did you come over so early for? Quickly leave, I still need to change.¡±


    ¡°When I woke up early this morning, I heard from Lian Xi that you had returned home in the middle of the night yesterday and I thought it was strange. Did you perhaps quarrel with Brother-in-law?¡±


    Lian Xi was Ruan Yu¡¯s bedwarmer. He conducted himself quite cleverly and was very attentive to his master.


    ¡°No.¡± Who did what with who, ah! But it was true that the two adult men did quarrel with each other. ¡°I forgot to tell you¨CSecond Cousin has returned from Lan Zou.¡±


    ¡°Of course I know Second Cousin has come back. He arrived yesterday evening all covered in dust on a horse. He didn¡¯t even respond to my questions and hurriedly went to bathe; I don¡¯t know when such a large man became so attentive to such things. When he came out after bathing, I was just about to ask him how Pa was doing in Lan Zhou, when he ran out after he found out you were staying in the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence. That guy, ah, oh right, Eldest Sister, Papa¡¯s fine, right?¡±


    Ruan Zhu started sweating and was speechless from embarrassment. She had only been concerned about her hubby, Yun Shi Yi, and had actually never asked how Ruan Zi Xu was. In the end, a father was different from a husband; females went out and daughters that married were like spilled water, but fortunately, her father remained very concerned about her. Ruan Zhu was somewhat ashamed: ¡°Papa¡¯s health is very good. As soon as he arrived in Lan Zhou, he hurriedly opened shops. For details, you should ask Second Cousin later during the meal. I¡¯m going to freshen up now, hurry and leave.¡±


    Ruan Yu turned around and grabbed a random set of Ruan Zhu¡¯s old clothes before throwing them at her: ¡°Be quick, I¡¯ll go send someone to bring in some water so you can wash your face. This lady is actually serving you; where the hell have Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing, those two bedwarmers, gone to?¡±


    Her two husbands had yet to return from their morning exercises, and Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing were still in the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence. Although there was no lack of servants that could attend to someone in the Ruan residence, she disliked the rough methods of the other servants in fiddling with her long hair. She voluntarily combed it into a long ponytail, washed her face, and then exchanged her night clothes for the old set that Ruan Yu had tossed over. She did not add any pearls or green jade and her attire was very simple, but it actually caused her to appear clean and pure.


    Alone, Ruan Zhu walked out of Yi Xin Residence and thought to take a look in the front courtyard to see whether or not her son, Zhi Xi, had been brought over by the imperial bodyguards of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence yet.


    Strolling to the long corridor, there was a tall, handsomely bright male figure leisurely standing there, enjoying the scenery.


    She saw that he seemed familiar and fixed her gaze upon him¨Cit turned out to be Xuanyuan Min Zhi.


    Hadn¡¯t this guy continuously hung around the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence and refused to leave? She had not heard Ruan Yu invite him, so how could he appear at this place? Recalling the circumstance where the two of them had hid in the trunk together, she became a little embarrassed.


    ¡°What did you come to my home for?¡± She stopped two meters away from him.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi indifferently swept her a glance and then unhurriedly responded: ¡°Could there possibly be a King of the Earth under the Heavens? I only know that this is the territory of the Xuanyuan clan. I am standing in my own land, yet you also have to care about this?¡±


    ¡°Then you can slowly stand there. I will not trouble you.¡±


    Annoyed, Ruan Zhu walked away. Right when she stepped past him¡­¡­Xuanyuan Min Zhi grabbed hold of her arm. At this period, Ruan Zhu was only three months pregnant and one fundamentally could not see any changes. However, her figure appeared rather well-rounded and her skin was incredibly soft as if she had been anointed with a layer of shiny, white gloss.


    A trace of obsession was in Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s eyes. Holding onto her arm that was like warm and fragrant nephrite made him feel at peace and relaxed, and he couldn¡¯t resist lightly stroking her tender arm.


    Ruan Zhu became angry and struggled to get out of his grip. But her opponent¡¯s strength was great and she was incapable of throwing him off. Plus, she was afraid that if she overexerted herself, it would only harm the baby in her belly.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s expression was very complicated. There was a hint of a longing to see her present in his eyes and his mouth opened a bit; however, he exposed a sarcastic smile: ¡°Don¡¯t all you women like being touched here and there by men? You had quite enjoyed it that day in the trunk.¡±


    He even had the gall to bring up this topic. If it weren¡¯t for his dirty tricks, she wouldn¡¯t have been arrested, had even her shoes stolen, be forced to wear an old sackcloth that carried who knew how many germs, and nearly died from fever.


    The corners of her mouth raised in mockery: ¡°I remember you are unwilling to be too close to women. During Mao Er Town¡¯s slave market, you were molested by quite a few women and even a male¡¯s most private place was touched. Your current expression does not look to be too happy, and now that you currently have a tight hold on my arm and are refusing to let go, could it be that you like me?¡±


    She had a deep impression of the slave market at Mao Er Town¨Cthe fat woman had felt him all over and had even lost a finger to his teeth.


    The Xuanyuan Min Zhi at that time had been in such dire straits that it had truly frightened her and she had spent money to buy him yet he raised his temper against her. Giving him to Aunt Sun could be counted as a groundbreaking test to his life goals, right! As the saying goes, no pain, no gain.


    ¡°I, like you?¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi flung off her hand, his eyes cold as he looked her up and down: ¡°With an ordinary appearance and a low birth status, a commoner; what aspects of you could possibly attract me?¡±


    This man¡¯s mouth was too loathsome. Ruan Zhu¡¯s arm had obtained freedom, and she felt too lazy to pay attention to him. Stepping outside the courtyard alone, she chanced upon Xiao San Zi who was coming out of the lateral courtyard with an accounts book.


    Xiao San Zi performed the rites: ¡°Eldest Miss, you have arrived just in time. This is the latest expenses of the kitchen. May Miss take a look to see what is incorrect or missing.¡±


    ¡°You should give this to Second Miss to see instead!¡± Ruan Zhu was unwilling to shoulder the stigma of taking power as soon as she returned to her maternal home, and asked him instead: ¡°How did Xuanyuan Min Zhi come to be at our home?¡±


    ¡°Is it that man with the icy face?¡± Xiao San Zi thought for a moment, then responded: ¡°He arrived together with Nuan Chun, and several of the Prince of Qi¡¯s imperial bodyguards also came too. They all called him ¡®Prince of Yong¡¯ and even said he was some emperor¡¯s third princely son. But this small one has never heard of our Tian Chu having such a Highness of that rank and also do not know if this is all just pretend.¡±


    As a resident of the capital, many matters of the imperial family could be repeated in detail due to the amount of gossip in the streets. However, Xuanyuan Min Zhi had been given up for adoption to the country of Nan Ling at a young age, and it was only natural that Xiao San Zi, as a mere commoner, did not know of this turn of events.


    ¡°Nuan Chun has brought Zhi Xi back?¡± Unbounded joy flowed from Ruan Zhu. In the thoughts of a mother, her child not being by her side, even if it was only a period of one night, was akin to throwing her baby away.


    ¡°Earlier, when Lian Xi went to the kitchen to pick up some dishes, he told me Nuan Chun had led the Young Master and arrived at the entrance of Eldest Miss¡¯s Yi Xin Residence but chanced upon Second Miss coming outside. Second Miss was so excited that it seems she immediately ran off with Young Master to Ping Lan Building. Nuan Chun was afraid the Young Master would meet with mishap and followed behind them.¡±


    ¡°Did Nuan Qing and the wet nurse not return?¡±


    ¡°It seems they have not?¡±


    Ping Lan Building was Ruan Yu¡¯s residence. As the building was inside a bamboo forest in the rear garden, the scenery was truly beautiful and it was possible to arrive there in a few minutes. But Ruan Zhu was unwilling to retrace her steps. If she were to meet Xuanyuan Min Zhi again, her head would inflate.


    The Ruan residence only had this one road that led to the back courtyard. The other path required exiting through the front gates, then taking a detour to the street behind the residence and entering through the garden entrance at the corner of that street. She was without any other choice. Being so uncomfortable in her own family¡¯s home, she sighed and proceeded over to the front gate.


    In addition to the residence¡¯s gate, if one turned left at the corner, there was an alley that would lead her to the back street. The way was very narrow¨Ctwo people standing shoulder to shoulder could barely pass through. Because several meters away was another larger lane, this alley was, instead, unfrequented.


    Ruan Zhu had just entered the alley when she saw a man and woman locked in a passionate kiss. Probably because they had just arrived and were anxious, the man had extended his hand into the woman¡¯s lapel while the woman had also stretched her hand inside the crotch of the male¡¯s pants.


    No matter who it was that bumped into them, all would become embarrassed. Ruan Zhu was just about to leave when she suddenly caught clear sight of the couples¡¯ faces and couldn¡¯t help but to become dumbfounded.


    The male was Nuan Qing and the female was Zhi Xi¡¯s wet nurse.


    Why were these two people together and when had this happened?


    Ruan Zhu felt sorrowful and also like she had been betrayed by a loved one. But, she had to persuade her own heart. Nuan Qing deserved happiness of his own, and since she had not accepted him, the other had the right to choose.


    But what if it were not her, but the previous Ruan Zhu, who saw this? According to the laws of Tian Chu, would she take them as adulterers and order them to be drowned in a lake? It¡¯s not like that had not happened before. When they were still in Yu Zhou, Ruan Ju had a bedwarmer named Qing Yuan who had had an affair with Aunt Shen of the kitchen and had secretly had a child together. When Ruan Ju discovered this, she had furiously commanded people to tie him into a pig cage[a] and drown him.


    The couple was still making out and had not discovered that they were being spied on.


    Ruan Zhu withdrew from the alley and trudged back to the main road.


    At the residence¡¯s gate, she encountered her husband Xuanyuan Zong Zhi. Concern apparent in his eyes, he stepped forward and held her waist. ¡°Wife, where did you go? I¡¯ve been looking for you. I¡¯ve brought back several imperial bodyguards from the princely residence. When you go out in the future, you must find someone to accompany you. They are all loyal and devoted and will absolutely protect you with all of their hearts.¡±


    Ruan Zhu squeezed out a smile: ¡°Let¡¯s return to eat, okay? I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi brushed her long ponytail, his eyes full of teasing: ¡°My wife knows how to create poems, is proficient in music theory, and is even able to modify military weapons that she has never seen before. You are the most outstanding woman this husband has ever seen. But it turns out there are also things you are not good at; just look at how this hair was combed, ze ze¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu became shy at his words and her previous upset mood disappeared like smoke. She would not think of that and would not waste her brain cells. After a while, she would just think of a reason for them to leave the residence, okay!


    Passing through the long corridor, this time it was rare that they did not come across Xuanyuan Min Zhi.


    Ruan Yu had servants arrange a feast inside the bamboo forest. The imperial bodyguards from the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence and the old servants of the Ruan residence had divided themselves into their respective workstations as they each had their own Masters to serve.


    Ruan Zhu took Zhi Xi from Nuan Chun¡¯s arms. The child was now nine months old¨Ca soft and tender ball, as cute as white snow¨Cand grabbed the drumstick that Ruan Yu had passed over, sending it to his own mouth. Ruan Zhu was worried he would have indigestion and shaved off all of the meat from the chicken leg before giving him the shiny bone for him to gnaw on. She used to a spoon to also feed him some easily digestible food.


    The little guy switched between happily gnawing on the chicken bone and opening his mouth to eat the food his mother fed him. Eating so happily, his hands and feet moved with joy and he gurgled cheerfully.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that while his wife was taking care of the child, she didn¡¯t even have the chance to eat, and reached over to hold Zhi Xi, using a spoon to ladle some egg drop soup into the child¡¯s mouth. Looking at Zhi Xi¡¯s adorable cheeks, he then glanced at his wife¡¯s belly and imagined what his own child would look like, a smile overflowing on his face.


    While everyone was eating, Yun Shi Wei walked inside with his hair dripping wet. It turned out his body had been entirely covered with sweat after he had finished his Chinese boxing sessions. Afraid that Ruan Zhu would not like that, he had gone to to the washroom and dumped two basins of cold water over himself before changing into a set of clean clothes and heading to the bamboo forest.


    With one glance, Ruan Zhu understood. Calling for Nuan Chuan to bring over a towel, she personally dried his hair for him. On her left sat Xuanyuan Zong Zhi and the seat to her right was empty. As soon as Yun Shi Wei knew that it was for him, he plopped down.


    ¡°Second Cousin, you¡¯ve arrived just in time. I haven¡¯t seen a trace of you since last night when you returned. Finding you is even more difficult than finding a corpse in the high seas. Quickly tell me about Pa¡¯s current situation in Lan Zhou.¡± Ruan Yu had finally obtained an opportunity to ask about her father.


    ¡°Maternal Uncle has gone to Mongolia.¡±


    When Yun Shi Wei responded in due course, Ruan Zhu and her sister both blankly stared at him. ¡°Why?¡± They simultaneously asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what sort of demonic wind came over the imperial court, but they want to import horses from Mongolia. They said it was not good for officials to personally step in and wanted a merchant to acquire them. Simply absurd. How could something that is so difficult for the imperial court to settle be so easily solved by a mere merchant?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi explained: ¡°The war between the imperial army and the rebels would become more favorable if the cavalry could re-enter the fray, but Tian Chu does not have grasslands and pastures and cannot produce outstanding horses. It is even harder to import horses from Mongolia as horses are considered a strategical resource and only a few of them can be sent to Tian Chu. Several months earlier, the Emperor and his ministers proposed to send several businessmen that were at least a little familiar with Mongolia to enter their territory and use various means to obtain a herd of horses. Master Ruan was precisely one of those selected. After receiving the imperial edict, he led some merchants into the grasslands of Mongolia, and several months have already passed.¡±


    ¡°Will there be any danger?¡± Ruan Zhu and her sister looked at each other.


    ¡°Generally, under these circumstances, there should not be. Mongolia has previously always been waiting for merchants as they need Tian Chu¡¯s silk, porcelain, iron pots, foodstuffs¨Cmany kinds of daily necessities.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was a little anxious as she didn¡¯t know when she would next be able to see this Father. She had lacked paternal love in her past life, and after crossing over, had always regarded Ruan Zi Xu as her close relative.


    ¡°Prince, the Empress Dowager niangniang has come to the Ruan residence.¡±


    The head of the imperial bodyguards, Nangong Xun, strode into the bamboo forest, bringing along an utterly shocking piece of news that stunned everyone in the vicinity.

 Chapter 72

    Ruan Zhu was dumbstruck and innumerable bewildered thoughts rolled around in her head. Her chopsticks fell out of her hands, and her expression was of one that was at a complete loss.


    The Empress Dowager; the Emperor¡¯s Mother; Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s paternal grandmother!


    Last night in the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence, because of Nuan Chun, she had slapped Steward Chen and humiliated him. Then after Xuanyuan Zong Zhi returned, he had also commanded the imperial bodyguards to beat Steward Chen half to death. Reportedly, the steward had then been dragged to the woodshed and because he had extreme difficulty breathing, died not too long after.


    Steward Chen was previously one of the Empress Dowagers¡¯s people, and if one wanted to strike at a dog, one had to look at their master. She was finished; the Empress Dowager must be furious. However, how was it that the Empress Dowager knew of something that had just occurred yesterday, unless there was an informant among the imperial bodyguards? Otherwise, had the imperial family long taken note of her and assigned a spy by her side?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi handed Zhi Xi over to Nuan Chun for them to return to the room. He then grasped his wife¡¯s hand and gave her a faint smile, his eyes soothing. Ruan Zhu¡¯s frazzled mind somewhat stabilized and she felt her other hand was also a little tight¨CYun Shi Wei had gripped it.


    ¡°Spouse, don¡¯t be scared. I will protect you.¡± If worst came to worst, he would discard this life in order to take his wife and the child to a faraway place.


    ¡°Eldest Sister, what should we do?¡± Ruan Yu was flustered.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right. Stay behind Sister.¡± No matter how it was said, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was also a prince; plus, there was imperial flesh and blood in her belly, so how could she be killed?


    ¡°En.¡± Ruan Yu did not know that her Eldest Sister had slapped one of the Empress Dowager¡¯s previous people. The common people treated the nobility of the Nine Palaces that were above everyone else with respect and reverence. This disposition was innate and had nothing to do with other factors.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi led everyone in walking towards the front courtyard.


    The Empress Dowager had paid an unsolicited visit and had already strode into the main building and into the main hall, where she was currently sitting with an air of strength and discipline in the main seat that Ruan Zi Xu would rest in when he was home.


    The currently sixty-some years old Empress Dowager Zheng sat perfectly straight with a dragon-headed cane underneath one hand. Her mind bright, her eyes were strict as she studied the group of people stepping inside.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi took the lead in kowtowing before the Elder, and Ruan Zhu soon followed him. Beside her was Yun Shi Wei; behind her was Ruan Yu. The most intriguing thing was that Xuanyuan Min Zhi had received the news, popped up from who-kn0ws-where, and was also kneeling next to Xuanyuan Zong Zhi.


    This era was not like the Ming or Qing dynasties that paid particular attention to etiquette with their three kneels and nine kowtows along with the shaking of their sleeves.


    The biggest etiquette of this era was to kowtow flat on the ground, and if the one above called for you to rise, you would then rise. If they did not issue the command, you then had to continue to kneel, even if one would become a stone gargoyle by doing so.


    Empress Dowager Zheng scanned everyone before her gaze fell on Xuanyuan Zong Zhi. She used the dragon-headed cane to point at him: ¡°You may rise.¡± One¡¯s own family was not a problem, and her own blood-related grandson was naturally different from the rest.


    ¡°Thanking Imperial Grandmother.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi instructed an imperial bodyguard to refill the Empress Dowager¡¯s tea while he looked at his wife out of the corner of his eye, mulling how he should plead leniency for her. Lifting his gaze, he saw that the Elder¡¯s face was full of suspicion as she pointed her cane at Xuanyuan Min Zhi.


    ¡°This boy; this dowager thinks is very familiar. Whose family¡¯s child is he?¡±


    The elderly Empress Dowager had ten sons and daughters, several dozen grandchildren, and her memory had declined with old age. She only remembered the children that she cared about and often mistook the ones she did not pay attention to with each. other. The reason why she thought Xuanyuan Min Zhi seemed familiar was because his appearance closely resembled those of the other Xuanyuan clan members.


    ¡°Imperial Grandmother, this is Third Brother, Xuanyuan Min Zhi.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi responded on behalf of the other.


    ¡°Min Zi?¡± The Empress Dowager¡¯s face was full of doubt as she sized up the young man kneeling on the ground: ¡°Why does this name seem so familiar? Where has this dowager heard it before?¡±


    ¡°Imperial Grandmother, Grandson is Emperor-Father¡¯s third son that was given to Nan Ling for adoption in childhood.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s expression was deferential but the eyes that he had slightly cast down were completely indifferent. He had been driven to a barbarian land, solitary and impoverished, and had experienced all kinds of supercilious looks. Things like relatives and bloodlines¨Che simply didn¡¯t take them to heart.


    ¡°Oh, I understand with you saying it like that.¡± The Elder suddenly realized it and struck the ground with her cane twice: ¡°So you are precisely that absolutely disgraceful child that let our family¡¯s Fifth suffer so terribly. I heard that at the time, you had sedated him with drugs then tied him up and sold him to human traffickers. Worried that your Emperor-Father would discover your ploy, you then used a palace eunuch¡¯s corpse to pass as our Fifth and set a room on fire.¡±


    Embarrassment was on Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s face: ¡°Imperial Grandmother, those are all old debts from a long time ago and Grandson has long not been able to remember them.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng nodded her head: ¡°Understandable. You are one without a conscience and forgetting it is correct. Not forgetting would be against reason.¡±


    When those words were said, the group of palace eunuchs behind the Elder could not hold back their tittering.


    Yet Ruan Zhu recalled the story that had been told to her when Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was still Lu Piao Xiang. He had an older brother that was extremely jealous of him, and the year he turned seven, the brother had thrown him to human traffickers and sold him to a brothel in Lan Zhou. That time she had given Xuanyuan Min Zhi, that bastard, to Aunt Sun could be considered a punishment since he had been subjected to much suffering then.


    Although Ruan Zhu¡¯s head was lowered, her eyes were filled with disdain. This Xuanyuan Min Zhi was too evil and it served him right to currently be so wretched.


    ¡°Why did you run to Tian Chu and not obediently stay in Nan Ling as the heir?¡±


    ¡°Responding to Imperial Grandmother, last year the old Duke became seriously ill and a rebellion took place in Nan Ling. The Duchess¡¯s bastard son, Wang Kun, bestowed the title of heir on himself and assembled a personal army, creating a situation of ¡®hold the feudal overlord and you control his vassals.¡¯¡± With great difficulty, Xuanyuan Min Zhi finally had obtained an opportunity where he could meet with the imperial family of Tian Chu. How could he easily let this chance slip away? His emotions were especially stirred and he spoke openly: ¡°Originally, Grandson was the heir of Nan Ling, but what can one do when the Duchess dotes on the bastard Wang Kun? They persecuted Grandson, and Grandson was only able to narrowly escape to Tian Chu. Fortunately, with the assistance of the Ruan clan, there was the opportunity to meet with Imperial Grandmother.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was greatly astonished that Xuanyuan Min Zhi had helped say good words on her behalf. She had always thought him not pouring cold water over her was already not bad.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi took advantage of the situation to say some good words for his wife: ¡°The Ruan clan is faithfully devoted to the imperial dynasty, and Ruan Zhi Xu spares no effort for the sake of the country. Originally, he could have spent his life quietly enjoying his days with his family with the enormous amount of wealth he has, but he prioritizes the country, and amidst the disasters currently upon us, cannot help but to busily rush about. Three months prior, he lead a group of merchants north towards Mongolia to purchase horses, without caring the slightest about how difficult or life-threatening the task may be.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng snorted: ¡°I did not ask you.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi relied on the Elder¡¯s favor and said with a smile: ¡°Imperial Grandmother has demanded for an explanation on Eunuch Chen¡¯s death. Grandson will remind Imperial Grandmother¨CEunuch Chen was beaten to death by Grandson¡¯s imperial bodyguards; it has no relation with Elder¡¯s Granddaughter-in-law.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng did not even lift her eyelids: ¡°Who is this ¡®Granddaughter-in-law¡¯; why have I never seen her before? Min Zhi, could it be that you have married and have not even brought her back to Tian Chu for Grandmother to have a look?¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was still kneeling and he bitterly smiled: ¡°Grandmother, Grandson is still yet a bachelor.¡±


    ¡°Pity. Wait for Grandmother to find a young maiden for you. You may rise now.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi stood up. Now, the only ones kneeling were the two sisters of the Ruan family and Yun Shi Wei.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s heart was anxious, thus he intentionally used a miserable voice: ¡°Please allow Grandson to remind Imperial Grandmother¨Cyour Granddaughter-in-law¡¯s stomach already contains Grandson¡¯s flesh and blood and kneeling for a long time will cause problems to arise. Imperial Physician Zhang has said the first three months of pregnancy are the most vital, and if the mother becomes too tired, a miscarriage will occur. Even if a miscarriage does not occur, later after the child is born, your Grandson is afraid the child will be a fool.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng was infuriated. Her eyes had widened into perfect circles and she raised her dragon-headed cane against Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s head: ¡°You reckless thing! You dare to say my great-grandson is a fool; I will hit you, you immature dolt.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi smiled as he ducked: ¡°Then how could Imperial Grandmother still allow your Granddaughter-in-law continue to kneel? Could it be that Imperial Grandmother believes an eunuch¡¯s life is more important than Imperial Grandmother¡¯s great-grandson¡¯s life?¡±


    The Empress Dowager huffed: ¡°She likes to kneel; what does that have to do with this dowager? Don¡¯t tell me this dowager has to personally go support her?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was delighted and walked over to help his wife up. Yun Shi Wei and Ruan Yu followed in standing soon after.


    ¡°Thanking Empress Dowager for her grace.¡± Ruan Zhu bowed in ceremony. Seeing her husband giving her a meaningful glance, she corrected herself: ¡°Imperial Grandmother clearly knows Granddaughter-in-law¡¯s wrong, yet Imperial Grandmother does not fault this young one. This magnanimity has caused Granddaughter-in-law to feel extremely moved.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng snorted: ¡°Who is your ¡®Imperial Grandmother¡¯? There is not even the first stroke of the character ¡®eight,¡¯ hmm?¡±[a]


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi happily laughed: ¡°Then, asking Imperial Grandmother to please grant Grandson a favor. In any case, Imperial Grandmother¡¯s great-grandchild must not have the reputation of an illegitimate child suspended over him at the time of his birth, allowing him to be looked down by others.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng made a noise of surprise: ¡°Previously, did you not regard your old wet nurse and her man as your parents? How would it be disgraceful for the child to be born as surely that would be solved if he was also surnamed Jia like them?¡±


    ¡°That was merely just a makeshift plan and must not be taken as true.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi awkwardly laughed and personally poured a cup of tea before offering it: ¡°This Granddaughter-in-law of yours is actually one with great ability and Grandson tying the knot with her is not considered a loss at all.¡±


    ¡°Girl, come here.¡± Empress Dowager Zheng looked at that cup of tea, then beckoned to Ruan Zhu before saying to the other people present: ¡°The ones with no business here may leave.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei, Ruan Yu, and all of the servants left the room, leaving only several of Empress Dowager Zheng¡¯s capable palace eunuchs that continued to stand in attendance behind her.


    ¡°Asking Imperial Grandmother to please instruct.¡± Ruan Zhu performed the rites.


    ¡°The new gunpowder formula was thought up by you?¡± The Empress Dowager¡¯s expression was peculiar, as if she found it very unbelievable.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s face did not show it, but she was still thinking of a countermeasure in her heart. Gunpowder was regarded as hazardous material and saying that she had personally come up with it did not seem too good. Also, for a young girl only in her teens to know so many incomprehensible things, the other would surely marvel and call her a witch for all of this so-called abnormal knowledge.


    ¡°Responding to Imperial Grandmother; as a child, Granddaughter-in-law had seen a gunpowder formula written in a notebook, as by chance, one of our neighbors was one that manufactured fireworks. Granddaughter-in-law was quite close with the children of that family and would often play at their home. Seeing them create fireworks, Granddaughter-in-law also wanted to do the same, but they refused to divulge the formula for gunpowder so I thought of the gunpowder formula I had seen in the notebook and decided to test it out and made a few firecrackers to play with. I used a flintstone to light them up and hurriedly ran away, but there was a gigantic sound that terribly frightened me. Fortunately, I had ran far away, or else my small life would have been gone. It was only later that I found out what I had created was different from their products and the strength was much stronger by who knows how many times.¡±


    ¡°The idea of putting in sharp iron shards was also yours?¡±


    ¡°En, when the gunpowder explodes, the shards will fly everywhere. Whoever it meets is whoever will be out of luck. It is a very simple principle.¡±


    ¡°This girl is rather intelligent.¡± Empress Dowager Zheng murmured a sentence and picked up the cup of tea on the table for a sip: ¡°Then what about the trebuchet? Exchanging the leather sling for a giant metal spoon¨Chow did you think of this?¡±


    Ruan Zhu widened her two bright eyes: ¡°This is also a very simple principle and one can understand with a glance. It is the same as if we throw something; if we wrap the item in a cloth bag, the distance we can throw it will surely not be very far. But if the item is placed on top of a hard stone slab, it can be thrown extremely far. If one mulls over the concept a bit, one can comprehend it.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng curled her lip: ¡°You said that so effortlessly¨CIf one mulls over the concept a bit, one can comprehend it. Saying it like that, the ones in the military are all idiots?¡±


    Ruan Zhu also thought it was strange. When she had first watched Approaching Science, they had explained it so clearly, so why was it that the ancient people could not understand? But modest words had to come from her mouth: ¡°All of the people in the military are pillars of the country so how could there be basis for saying they do not understand? It must be that they were hindered by other, more important matters.¡±


    ¡°Well said. Trebuchets have been around for thousands of years and the men of each military from each era have consistently been busy and have never been able to rest.¡± Ridicule was all over Empress Dowager Zheng¡¯s face and her meaning was: Little girl, you can continue fabricating.


    ¡°It really is strange, oh.¡± Ruan Zhu agreed.


    Empress Dowager Zheng snorted: ¡°Even if what you are saying is reasonable, then what about the ballista, hmm? You have not even seen it before so how could you know how to modify it?¡± The Empress Dowager did not feel this matter was that simple and wanted to investigate it to the end.


    ¡°As a child, I saw a carpenter create rackets and gears and he had said these items could be used in many places, even on ballistas. That day, I had heard Lord Husband say he had become a generalissimo, thus I thought of that matter.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had neatly divided herself from these matters. Empress Dowager Zheng was in half-belief and half-doubt but also could not find any holes in her story and decided to temporarily indulge her.


    [a] °Ë×ÖûһƲ, idiom meaning things have not begun to take shape.

 Chapter 73

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    ½­ºþ | jianghu | community of martial artists


    Ruan Zhu bowed towards Empress Dowager Zheng: ¡°Imperial Grandmother, Granddaughter-in-law begs for Imperial Grandmother to not spread this conversation outside of this hall. The imperial family recognizing one¡¯s name is naturally a good thing, but it will also bring about a wealth of trouble.¡± She had not forgotten that in the country of Tian Chu, apart from her, there was also another transmigrator.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi added: ¡°There are quite a few spies from the south hidden in the capital. If by chance they were to know of this, it would cause a bit of inconvenience for Zhu¡¯er and may also endanger her life.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng was annoyed: ¡°If this dowager did not know this, why would this dowaer have driven out those people earlier?¡± She turned her head towards the several palace eunuchs standing behind her: ¡°Whoever dares to spread this news outside will be beaten to death.¡±


    ¡°Us little ones do not dare.¡± The palace eunuchs hurriedly bowed in response, their faces tinted with solemnity and respect.


    In China, there has always been the custom of inviting guests to stay for meal, no matter if it was actually time for one or not, and also not caring whether the guests were hungry or not. Even if the guests had just finished eating at their own home before paying someone a visit, they would still have to eat a bite.


    Naturally, the dishes in the Ruan residence were not as good as the ones in the palace, but they won out in having a more lively and casual atmosphere, and as people became older, that was what they sought.


    After joking until the residence was filled with laughter for the greater half of the day, Empress Dowager Zhen happily returned to the palace with her entourage.


    Ruan Zhu was disastrously exhausted. Once the Elder had departed, she did not even inform anyone and returned to Yi Xin Residence where she immediately plopped onto the bed as soon as she saw it.


    ¡°Wife, today has been hard on you. I¡¯ll have Imperial Physician Zhang come over tomorrow to examine you.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi walked over and removed his wife¡¯s shoes before placing both hands on either side of her waist, lightly massaging: ¡°Imperial Grandmother had a great time today. The method you thought up was very good.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had wanted to have the elder Empress Dowager leave while in a cheerful mood. The meal inevitably required special attention, but what sort of delicacies could not be eaten in the imperial palace? This problem had caused her to worry terribly, and finally, she had become annoyed and had the servants bring out the already-made dough and mincemeat so everyone could wrap dumplings together.


    Empress Dowager Zheng had never seen such a spectacle. Immediately beaming at the novelty, she rolled up her sleeves and personally joined in.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s plan was very in line with the Elder¡¯s thoughts as eating dumplings that one personally wrapped brought about a unique sense of accomplishment. Empress Dowager Zheng took more as she ate, and when she left, she also took along a large case-full, saying she was going to take it back to the imperial palace as a midnight snack and have the kitchen pan-fry it for her to eat at night.


    ¡°All of you majestic nobles in the Nine Palaces have become accustomed to being aloof and remote, so occasionally experiencing the simple life of a commoner would naturally carry a distinctive experience. But using this method a few times is fine; overuse would only make it meaningless.¡±


    ¡°My wife is incredibly clever and surely has another method.¡±


    ¡°But of course.¡± She did have a few more ideas, but the majority of them could not be used. There was still another transmigrator in Tian Chu; but on the contrary, with her current strength, she was actually not that worried.


    As she enjoyed the massage and felt more comfortable, her body became limp and she heard Xuanyuan Zong Zhi from next to her ear: ¡°As long as Imperial Grandmother agrees to our marriage, no one else would dare be opposed. These few years, the Elder¡¯s temper has become increasingly strong, but as long as we coax her properly, there is nothing to worry about.¡±


    The most troublesome one in the palace was not the Empress Dowager, nor was it Emperor-Father; rather, it was his own Empress-Mother. But it was not good for Xuanyuan Zong Zhi to say this out loud, in case his wife¡¯s mood turned gloomy. In any case, as long as they could secure the Empress Dowager, nothing else would be an issue.


    Ruan Zhu made a sound of agreement. Her bright eyes glittered as she looked at him and she unhurriedly said: ¡°A few days ago, I asked you to investigate the master of manufacturing tea at Lu Yin Ge. Were there any discoveries?¡±


    ¡°It is the one called Zhao Hai.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi thought for a moment, then instructed the palace eunuch standing outside the door: ¡°Qu Gao, call over Bodyguard Nangong; I have questions to ask him.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± The palace eunuch responded and left.


    Last night when Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had moved to the Ruan residence, the servants of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence had also continuously rushed over to serve. But the current Ruan residence was certainly unlike the one in Yu Zhou. This residence was rented, and not mentioning how the area was narrow, there were also not enough rooms. In the evening when it was time to set up the living arrangements, that was another matter to worry about. Ruan Zhu was currently not the acting-Head of the family; just let Ruan Yu fret over this, okay!


    Nangong Xun stood in the outer hall where Xuanyuan Zong Zhi asked him how the investigation on Zhao Hai has gone? He performed the rites to the two inside while separated by the beaded curtain: ¡°Niangniang, regarding this matter, there is a bit of a relation between this Zhao Hai and niangniang. He is the previously discarded son of Fifth Concubine-Father Zhao of the Yun clan in Lan Zhou. Currently twenty-five years of age, he has lived in Nan Ling since he was a child and fled two years ago after he was unable to endure the abuse from his mother, but broke his leg while fixing the river dike in Liu Zhou. I heard that at that time, he was already a dead person and was being pulled to the cremation pit, but halfway there, he unexpectedly revived. All of the people present were mystified and the supervisor dispatched him with several taels of silver. It is quite difficult for Zhao Hai to survive with a lame leg as even if he tried to do hard labor, others would be unwilling to hire him and he could only walk the several thousand li journey to Lan Zhou to seek asylum with Fifth Concubine-Father Zhao.¡±


    So it really was Hai¡¯er! Ruan Zhu¡¯s graceful brows slightly wrinkled and her fingers tightened as she unconsciously gripped the bed sheets.


    ¡°Later, Zhao Hai worked in Head Yun¡¯s Tian Yi Pavilion. Zhao Hai had a bit of ability and some circumstances, and not long after, came up with the method of stir-frying tea and also knew how to make several strange cakes and pastries. Like this, he incurred the jealousy of the kitchen chef and was framed for thieving. Because the Manager had previously been instructed by Head Yun, it was not good for him to do anything to Zhao Hai, but Zhao Hai left Tian Yi Pavilion in a fit of anger. He first lingered around several other prefectures for a short while before he arrived at the capital.¡±


    Being near the imperial family made it easy to make a living; this was the collaborative addiction of all the transmigrated male swine. It was a pity that the country of Tian Chu was not a paradise for the stallion man. On this aspect, Zhao Hai was doomed to be disappointed.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had a feeling that his wife deeply disliked the man called Zhao Hai. He did not know what sort of things had happened between them before, but since she did not say, he was even more unable to ask. He comforted her: ¡°You are currently my imperial consort. If anyone dares to think badly of you, they are throwing their lives away.¡±


    But Nangong Xun aptly added a sentence: ¡°Nowadays Zhao Hai is shaking and has found himself a patron.¡±


    Ruan Zhu restrained the surprise in her heart: ¡°Who has he found to be his patron?¡±


    ¡°Several days ago, the Crown Prince and several officials went to drink wine at Lu Yin Ge after the morning court. After they sampled his tea, they summoned him on the spot. This one does not know what method Zhao Hai used to make the Crown Prince treat him favorably and to accept him as one of the advisers in his residence.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi coolly said: ¡°I do not put such an insignificant aide in my eyes.¡±


    Nangong Xun then said a few more words before asking to be excused.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s excitement waned. Zhao Hai had been made into the Crown Prince¡¯s advisor, and it would be hard to make a move against him in the future. But how could she resign herself to death? She had to think of a dependable method.


    When Empress Dowager Zheng returned to the palace, she played some kind of role, and an imperial edict was passed down not even a few days later. Ruan Zhu kneeled down with her husband in the main courtyard to receive the decree.


    A palace eunuch clutched a beautiful yellow scroll between his hands as he read: ¡°By the Mandate of Heaven, the Emperor hereby decrees¡­¡­Following that was a lengthy doctrine, first of praise¨Cwhat innately gifted, with perfect morals and conduct. Once the commendations were finished, the title of Princess of Qi was bestowed along with the phoenix crown and official princess robes. The edict also stated that because the nation was currently dealing with political issues, the Prince of Qi¡¯s marriage would be made up once the situation has calmed down.


    What ¡®make up¡¯ what wedding? She had long had the ceremony with Xuanyuan Zong Zhi at Yu Zhou.


    With the arrival of late autumn, the grass and trees dried up and the garden was a slice of bleakness. Fortunately, there was still a cluster of green xiangfei bamboo that could be admired.


    Ruan Zhu had coaxed little Zhi Xi into a nap and went for a stroll with Nuan Chun supporting her. After walking a few laps, they arrived at a small pavilion for a seat.


    Nuan Chun invited a few young boys to erect a stove on the ground where he boiled a pot of tea. Taking out a white jade porcelain bowl made from the Ru kiln, he poured it full of aromatic tea. Ruan Zhu took a sip, but felt that there was a savory aftertaste. Speaking of this tea and its origin, it was brought to the residence by Lu Yin Ge¡¯s Elder Jia. The one who manufactured the tea was no other than Zhao Hai.


    Ever since this enemy had sought shelter with the Crown Prince, there was not much of the good tea left at Lu Yin Ge. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had saw that she liked it and had asked Elder Jia for more.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, it is hard to image that Mister Lu is an imperial prince. At Lu Zhou, who would have thought of this? You have also become the Prince of Qi¡¯s imperial consort. A few days earlier, our family¡¯s neighbor, Wife Li, returned home from her maternal home, and after hearing of your matter, she was so frightened, she was green in the face.¡± Nuan Chun picked out several small and light refreshments and placed them before his Master, words continuing to spill from his mouth: ¡°It truly is karma. That Wife Li will no longer act as mighty as before.¡±


    Wife Li was the Ruan clan¡¯s next door neighbor that was only separated by one wall. Fifty plus years old, her appearance was one that was incomparably thick and solid. She relied on her family being extremely well-off to and was accustomed to abusing others and could not bear to see even acquaintances living better than her. Many of the neighbors¡¯ matters could not be concealed from her. Early on, Wife Li hated to see how the men of her family looked at Ruan Zhu as if the latter were a treasure that should be cherished. Thus, whenever she saw the servants of the Ruan clan, she would frequently badmouth their owner in the open and in the dark.


    ¡°Human nature is all like this¨Cwelcome the mighty and tread on the weak. We are not native to the capital and the residence is also rented; no wonder we are looked down on by many of the capital¡¯s residents.¡±


    ¡°This slave knows that at the time the clan had not thought we would be staying in the capital for such a long time, which is precisely why the residence was rented. But buying it now is also not too late; it is not like our Ruan clan is without the money. However, this slave has heard something of moving the capital? Purchasing this residence would also be useless. Right when we were to reunite with Master, Miss has become pregnant again. This matter of moving the capital is better to be later rather than sooner.¡±


    Ruan Zhu heard his nagging and smiled as she stroked her belly. Several days ago, Imperial Physician Zhang had come to feel her pulse and said her belly contained twins, causing the one that was about to become a father to remain excited for several nights in a row. Did he really have to go that far? The genes of the people in this era had mutated and the probability of having a daughter was very low, but the chance of having twins had greatly increased. Every couple had several pairs of twins.


    With a sweep of her eyes, she saw Yun Shi Wei meander into the garden from the corner gate.


    His temper had calmed down a bit after being tempered in Lan Zhou. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had said men should not stay idle at home or they would become wastes; instead, they should spend their time doing something. He had used his connections to give Yun Shi Wei the unused position of a fifth-rank guerrilla warfare general and also allocated five hundred soldiers from the army for him to command.


    When Yun Shi Wei first took office, he was still rather complacent, but very quickly discovered that leading an army was not as easy as he had imagined. First of all, things became difficult when the soldiers refused to listen, and in the beginning, he had punished the several soldiers that took the lead in causing the trouble, but blindly handing out punishments would only cause his troop to double their hatred. Today, there had been yet another deputy general who had heavily criticized him for his training methods. As Yun Shi Wei was not good with words, he had angrily kicked the man, and sent the army home earlier than usual.


    Yun Shi Wei stood in the garden for a moment. Seeing his wife sitting in the pavilion, his eyes brightened and he strode over.


    ¡°Your expression is not good; you indeed lost your temper in the barracks?¡± It was not easy to supervise those old and grizzled men of the military. She had heard that all five hundred of the soldiers Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had allocated to him were elites. No matter who it was, as long as their ability was large, their temper would also follow suit. She only feared that they were all very prickly and unable to get along well with others.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s martial arts were pretty good, but if he wanted to become a talented commander, it was necessary to have more self-discipline.


    ¡°Spouse, I know you have a plan. Help me think of a way to make those men listen to me.¡± Yun Shi Wei was vexed. Even if force was used against those men, their tempers were much more resolute than yours. They simply did not care if you beat them with the army rod; they would grit their teeth until it¡¯s over and a few days later, would be vigorous and lively again.


    Ruan Zhu thought a bit of those movies and TV shows she had seen previously: ¡°Actually, it is very simple to manage a group of men with straightforward tempers. They do not play mind games, so as long as your thoughts are the same, they will actually regard you as a friend, and for you, will be at your beck and call from the cradle to the grave and will absolutely not hesitate.¡±


    ¡°Then what should I do?¡±


    ¡°An outstanding commander is the linchpin of the army. Convince them you are a person of good moral standing and reputation with virtue and ethics.¡± Ruan Zhu looked at him and laughed: ¡°Or, you can convince them with your martial arts skill. The next time they cause trouble, don¡¯t use the rod to punish them; instead, directly challenge them to a fight, unless you are unable to defeat them.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was unconvinced and disdainfully said: ¡°Who said I am unable to defeat them? Don¡¯t mention those several few pricks from the military, even in the jianghu, there aren¡¯t many experts who can beat me.¡±


    ¡°You have to win people¡¯s hearts so use the best method to reveal yourself in the fastest time possible. Display your strengths and let all of your soldiers understand that there is meat to be had if they stay with you, that they can reach the heights that they desire and can stand out among their peers.¡± Ruan Zhu spoke while mulling it over: ¡°How about training your men into a special force comprised of men that are precious for their quality, not quantity, with each one being worth a hundred? Strong combat capabilities; well-equipped; fast and flexible; well-trained¨Ctheir main tasks would be: assault, assassinations and abductions, reconnaissance, obtaining intelligence, and surprise attacks.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei was open-minded and also doubtful: ¡°I don¡¯t quite understand. Can you be a bit more detailed?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s brows lowered as she thought. When she lifted them up again, her eyes were clear and bright: ¡°For example, if you are leading the army to attack an enemy town, as the advance troop, you can disguise yourselves as civilians and enter the city. Then, while the enemy remains unaware, you can dispose of the entire enemy army¡¯s backbone. Or, let¡¯s say, if the city is still immersed in peace, when the slightest bit of danger creeps in, all of you can ride fast horses into the city and dispatch their main forces in the smallest amount of time. After the blitzkrieg strategy, all of you then immediately gallop away in retreat without waiting for the enemy to have any chance at assembling.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s eyes flashed as if he had just seen a luminous lantern in the middle of a dark night: ¡°I understand. The most important part is that we must be fast, fierce, and accurate. As soon as we strike the target, immediately withdraw.¡±


    ¡°Pretty much.¡± Ruan Zhu responded, gratified. This fool at least had some originality when it came to military affairs. ¡°The weapons and tools special forces use are all of excellent quality. There is a kind of weapon¡­¡­Nuan Chun, go stand guard at the entrance of the garden; do not let anyone enter.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Eldest Miss.¡± Nuan Chun knew the information they were discussing was classified, unsuitable for others to hear, and he hurriedly went on patrol.


    Ruan Zhu pulled out a dip pen and paper from a cloth bag. In a few strokes, she sketched out several weapons with peculiar shapes.


    ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Pick any name you want!¡± This was a sanleng thorn, a weapon that the special forces of China used.[a] ¡°If this weapon pierces a person¡¯s body, it will leave a gaping hole, similar to a person bleeding out.¡±


    Furthermore, there were blood grooves on all three sides, thus with a single stab into a person¡¯s body, air would also rush in and the speed at which the blade could be withdrawn would also be much faster. Blades that did not have the blood grooves would be restricted by the muscles once the sword was inside the body, and the withdrawal time would be double the amount of time needed to insert the blade, enormously influencing the speed of combat.


    After speaking of these things, Ruan Zhu felt a tinge of uneasiness as in the future, there would be more people dying because of her stratagems.


    But since the Red Eyebrow army at the southern border had raised up a flag of rebellion, they had to be prepared to sacrifice themselves at any time. Their lives were costly, but did this mean that others¡¯ lives were cheap, then?


    Could it be that she even had to wait until the rebels had breached the capital and killed her husbands and children? She was already a member of the imperial household and her relatives were the honorable imperial family of the country of Tian Chu. The fate of the country was closely related to her.


    Yun Shi Wei stared at Ruan Zhu for a very long time with pursed lips: ¡°Spouse, you truly are a mystery.¡±


    Ruan Zhu solemnly warned him: ¡°The things I have said to you today, do not tell anyone that it was I who said a single word. Otherwise, it will put me in danger. Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°I know, Spouse. Relax.¡± He did not understand his wife¡¯s worries, but he knew she had her own reasons for telling him not to reveal the source of information.


    Ruan Zhu knew that by revealing this knowledge, she may have brought unnecessary trouble on herself. But she had decided to place the utmost importance on the futures of her husbands and family members first.


    Zhao Hai had sought asylum with the Crown Prince, and with his ken and knowledge of a man from the future, he had actually become a threat to Xuanyuan Zong Zhi.


    What she had to do first was strengthen herself. When doing things, she must not flinch and be weak from doing them blindly. During the necessary moments, she had to build a formidable force and had to have a strong umbrella behind her.


    At least she was hidden. Zhao Hai was in the open and wanting to kill him was much easier in comparison. The issues were, who should this task be given to, and what reasonable justification should be used to dispose of this troublesome matter?


    Having transmigrated for so long, her heart had unwittingly become cold. But, who did not slowly mature in the face of adversity?


    [a] ÈýÀâ´Ì (lit. three corner dagger) The name comes from the dagger being shaped so that there¡¯s three ¡®sides¡¯ to it rather than the traditional two. (Examples here and here)


    TN: Happy new year. ????????????

 Chapter 74

    Ruan Zhu stood up from the stone bench. Her legs were a little numb, and she conveniently snuggled against Yun Shi Wei¡¯s chest; his two large hands fastening around her.


    She sized him up. This man with such a tall and sturdy figure¨Cpresently, one could not tell at all, but with time, he would become a man whose limit was the sky; a man with the courage to accept the consequences of his actions. At that time, he may not necessarily be too far off from Yun Shi Yi and Xuanyuan Zong Zhi; she would just wait and see.


    A gentle smile formed on Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth. Standing on tiptoe, she raised her head and pressed a kiss against his lips.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s eyes were full of love and he returned her kiss for a while: ¡°Spouse, it¡¯s gotten colder. I¡¯ll send you back to your room.¡±


    With a hoist of his two arms, he horizontally carried his wife and stepped towards the path leading outside the garden. At this time, distant sounds transmitted over. Carefully listening, it turned out Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing were in some sort of dispute over by the withered flowering bushes.


    Yun Shi Wei thought it was strange. Softening his footsteps, he walked a little closer and saw Nuan Qing kneeling on the ground with disheveled clothes, crying so hard his tears and mucus overlapped. While he cried, he seemed to be begging Nuan Chun for something.


    Nuan Zhun stood opposite him and had turned his head away with disgust on his face.


    Underneath a cotton rose hibiscus tree a few steps away from them was a faint outline of a naked woman who was currently throwing clothes on top of herself in a hurry.


    Nuan Chun pointed at the kneeling Nuan Qing, castigating: ¡°You shameless person actually dared to do this sort of disgusting thing. And you are still Eldest Miss¡¯s bedwarmer; truly too brazen!¡±


    ¡°Big Brother Nuan Chun, begging you to let me go this once. If this matter is spread and Eldest Miss finds out, I will be too ashamed to live.¡±


    ¡°Fancy that you still have the face to bring up Eldest Miss. At that time when your entire family had fled from a famine to Yu Zhou, if it wasn¡¯t for Master being kind and offering you shelter, you would have long starved to death by the roadside. The year you turned ten, you were so ill you almost died. Even your mother and father were not willing to spend money to save you; it was Eldest Miss that spent silver to invite a physician to bring you back to life. From childhood to now, the things we ate, wore, used¨Cwhich one of those were not the best? The monthly rewards have only ever increased and have never lessened before. When you could not use all of it, you also sent some home and even your parents and brothers have followed you in having hope. But you, hmm? You have the heart of a wolf and the lungs of a dog.¡±


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing¡¯s relatives had been taken by Ruan Zi Xu to Lan Zhou to open shops. Ruan Zi Xu had gone north to Mongolia to purchase horses, thus the shops and workers had been placed under Yun Shi Yi to manage. If Nuan Qing¡¯s parents knew that his son, as the Eldest Miss¡¯s bedwarmer, had done such a lascivious matter to bring disgrace to their family, they would surely go mad with anger.


    ¡°I know, I am not a person and I do not have a conscience, but if this matter really were to be spread outside, the ending for me and the wet nurse is to be drowned in a pool of water. Big Brother Nuan Chun, Big Nuan Chun, I am begging you¡­¡­¡± Nuan Qing loudly wailed. He crawled a few steps forward and hugged Nuan Chun¡¯s legs: ¡°Us brothers have grown up together; you also do not want to see Little Brother die such a horrid death, right!¡±


    Nuan Chun¡¯s voice unconsciously became softer: ¡°Even if Eldest Miss does not have you drowned based on the many years of service, but then I am baffled. After having done such a shameless thing, how could you have the face to continue living?¡±


    ¡°I truly like her, Nuan Chun, you do not know the feeling of when a man and a woman are together. You have never tasted that sort of flavor before¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Get lost!¡± Nuan Chun¡¯s entire face was red. Kicking aside the pair of arms wrapped around his legs, he shouted: ¡°Do not tell me about those dirty mistakes of yours; you really make me sick.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei carried his wife over with an entirely gloomy face.


    Nuan Chun and Nuan Qing sensed there was something different and turned their heads to see that it was their Young Master from the paternal family and their own family¡¯s Master. They were both so startled they could not speak and Nuan Qing¡¯s face became extremely pale.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s gaze rested on the figure behind the cotton rose hibiscus tree and asked in a voice devoid of emotion: ¡°How do you still have the face to hide over there? Do you need me to have someone drag you out?¡±


    After a short moment, the wet nurse cowered as she stepped out from the withered shrubs behind the cotton rose hibiscus tree, both hands tying her belt. Shame across her entire face, she lowered her head, not daring to make a sound.


    Yun Shi Wei saw that there was nevertheless a trace of sadness in his wife¡¯s eyes. Thinking about how her belly was currently with child, he inevitably became anxious: ¡°Spouse, do not squabble with these slaves; the baby is important. Nuan Chun, call over Xiao San Zi to bring over some servants to beat these two slaves with a cane before sending them to the woodshed. Tomorrow morning, have some servants drag them to be submerged in the pond.¡±


    Nuan Qing was so scared his face was a deathly gray. His mouth spread wide open and he even forgot how to speak.


    The wet nurse wailed anguishedly: ¡°It has nothing to do with me, Nuan Qing seduced me; he is just a lowly slave, I am innocent!¡±


    Yun Shi Wei turned his head away in revulsion as he strode with large steps towards the garden¡¯s exit while carrying his wife.


    Returning to Yi Xin Residence, Ruan Zhu stared blankly out the window as she sat on the lounge chair. In the ancient era, being loose with morals was a dreadful criminal charge, but in reality, everyone had these lewd thoughts in their hearts and only audacious people changed those desires into actuality.


    Nuan Qing was her bedwarmer and had tossed aside his Master¡¯s face. Per the laws of Tian Chu, it was not wrong to have him beaten to death; on the contrary, there would be some who would applaud this action. But to her modern eyes, this problem would inevitably lead to a guilty conscience.


    A bedwarmer with a false name had the right to pursue love. If this was based on the customs of the feudal world, her way of thinking would appear childish and ridiculous, but didn¡¯t the Western Chu¡¯s Hegemon-King also have times where he was softhearted?[a]


    ¡°Qu Gao, go inform Xiao San Zi to bring over Nuan Qing and the wet nurse. I want to personally question them.¡±


    ¡°Understood! Niangniang, this slave will go immediately.¡± Qu Gao, who was standing by in attendance outside the door, bowed in her direction and hurriedly left.


    Ever since Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had Steward Chen beaten to death before the servants, it had acted as a deterrent, and the servants of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence were even more deferential when seeing their Princess than when they saw their own Prince. They all understood that His Highness loved his wife like his life. If they provoked His Highness, at most it would be a few rounds with a cane; if they provoked niangniang, their Prince may possibly ask for their heads to be separated from their bodies.


    A phrase secretly circulated among these servants¨CBetter to offend His Highness than to offend niangniang.


    ¡°Spouse, your heart has softened?¡± Yun Shi Wei was a locally born and raised commoner of Tian Chu and did not think there was anything wrong with killing two servants that had committed wrong. After entering the army, the most important thing was to practice courage. He had already personally brandished a blade and killed eleven prisoners from the Red Eyebrow army at the military grounds. When he killed the first one, his hand still trembled; he had hardened his heart and killed the second; the third¡­¡­by the time he had killed the last one, there were no feelings left.


    Presently, he only placed importance on the ones he cared about. There was no need for him to be concerned about those that were irrelevant to him.


    Ruan Zhu propped her chin on her hand, not even glancing away: ¡°Their crime has not affected me. We can just kick them out and forget about it.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei did not comprehend at all: ¡°What is this ¡®their crime has not affected me¡¯? What about the matter of them ruining your reputation?¡±


    Ruan Zhu knew it was impossible to explain her reasoning to him. In addition to him, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi and Yun Shi Yi would also not understand.


    Nuan Qing and the wet nurse were dragged to the doorway by a palace eunuch and thrown onto the stones so that the two people laid sprawled. Drenched with blood, their buttocks and thighs were badly mutilated and they had already fainted by the time they reached the ground.


    Qu Gao instructed a small palace eunuch to carry over two pails of water to pour over the two bodies. The well water in late autumn was especially ice-cold and stimulated the two people awake.


    The wet nurse opened her dazed eyes and crawled up, kowtowing before a door that was covered with a muslin curtain: ¡°Niangniang, spare this slave¡¯s dog life, okay? It is not this slave¡¯s fault; it is that Nuan Qing¡¯s foxy charms and tricks are too exceptional and causes one to be unable to withstand its enticement. Blame it all on this slave¡¯s will being too weak to be tempted by him,¡±


    Yun Shi Wei snorted, his entire face full of disgust: ¡°Neither of them are good. They all deserve death.¡±


    Ruan Zhu walked to the doorway and a palace eunuch respectfully placed a chair behind her, but she was not in the mood to sit. Standing before the entrance and looking at the blood-covered Nuan Qing, she thought of the past and her heart was filled with complex feelings. She flatly stated: ¡°Nuan Qing, have you seen it? The woman that you have wholeheartedly liked has in the end, disregarded your safety for the possibility of her survival. Is this the relationship that you wanted?¡±


    Nuan Chun repeatedly kowtowed. He was sobbing so hard he could barely make a sound and only cried out: ¡°Begging Eldest Miss for mercy.¡±


    Ruan Zhu fixed her gaze on him for a short moment: ¡°Out of the two of you, I will only allow one to live; the other will be dragged to the pond tomorrow morning. You can choose yourselves!¡±


    The wet nurse¡¯s eyes became a bloody red and her eyes filled with hysteria while she shrieked: ¡°Of course it should be I that lives and he the one to be drowned. Men who are flirtatious and have violated the laws naturally deserve death; I am a woman, and have no sin, the laws of Tian Chu also will not demand my life.¡±


    Full of dislike, Ruan Zhu commanded a palace eunuch: ¡°Stuff her mouth.¡±


    The palace eunuch was also merciless and peeled off the wet nurses¡¯s socks before stuffing them in her mouth. The wet nurse reached towards her face but her hands were quickly tied behind her back by the palace eunuch.


    Ruan Zhu asked Nuan Qing: ¡°I want to hear what you have to say.¡±


    Despair filled Nuan Qing¡¯s eyes. He remained silent for a long time before saying: ¡°What she said was not wrong. I seduced her; I deserve death.¡±


    Nuan Chun had been listening by the side since the beginning and could not resist shouting at this moment: ¡°Nuan Qing, things have already gotten to this point yet you obstinately persist in going about things the wrong way. The other has already betrayed you but you still are willing to trade your life for that absolutely disgraceful wet nurse. You¡¯re muddled, ah, you!?¡±


    Nuan Qing¡¯s face was stiff and he mumbled: ¡°I seduced her, I am a fox charmer, I deserve death.¡±


    ¡°Nuan Qing, you have actually made things difficult for me. I do not understand¨Cyou acting like this, is this to protect the wet nurse? Or is it because you have been emotionally hurt and only wish for death?¡± Ruan Zhu shook her head. Moving aside the muslin curtain a little, she then hung it on the silver hooks on the door frame: ¡°However, how could I truly let you die?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Miss?¡± Nuan Qing lifted up his eyes, practically shaking as he asked.


    ¡°But I also do not wish for you to remain by my side. Let¡¯s do this then¨CI have heard there is a Wu Shan Buddhist temple outside of the city. How about becoming a monk then!¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡­I am willing¡­¡­¡± Tears suddenly streamed down Nuan Qing¡¯s cheeks.


    ¡°Xiao San Zi, take some people and lift Nuan Qing back to his room. Nuan Chun, go invite a physician from a medicine hall to look at Nuan Qing. Early tomorrow morning, use a carriage to take him to Wu Shan temple and before you leave, tell Nuan Qing that there is no need to come over to say farewell.¡±


    Xiao San Zi waited for Nuan Qing to knock his head against the ground three times before finding several men to lift the other back to the servants¡¯ quarters. Nuan Chun followed them in leaving to invite a physician.


    The wet nurse was still sprawled before the entrance and wu wu sounds continued to spill from her plugged mouth.


    Ruan Zhu held unspeakable loathing towards this person. She had done wrong yet did not dare to admit it and to preserve her life, did not spare anyone even when she had reached such a shameful plight. ¡°Qu Gao, I heard Da Jue Mountain is lacking people; is this correct?¡±


    Qu Gao quickly bowed in response: ¡°Replying to niangniang, many captives have been sent to Da Jue Mountain and they are not lacking in miners; on the contrary, they have had a shortage of women since the beginning. The soldiers supervising the captives have to practice an ascetic lifestyle the entire year and dearly desire to have females accompanying them. This wet nurse¡¯s appearance will surely suit their thoughts.¡±


    Because of the arduous conditions in Da Jue Mountain, the living environment was vile. Shame nor virtue existed in the hearts of the local men; surviving was the only firm principle. Several dozens or several hundreds of men sharing a wife was very common and


    playing with them until they died and then changing to another one was also a frequent occurrence. The supervisors even often bestowed women that were on the verge of death as rewards to convicts. On Da Jue Mountain, females were not considered humans; they were sacrificial tools used to satiate a man¡¯s lust.


    ¡°Send the wet nurse to Da Jue Mountain then!¡±


    The palace eunuchs responded in agreement and stepped forward to pull at the wet nurse.


    Yun Shi Wei also thought this plan was very good and moved to support his wife inside the inner room.


    But right at this time, an imposing voice sounded from the courtyard entrance: ¡°Sending her like this to Da Jue Mountain is letting her off too easily. Even if she is sent over, her two arms should be chopped off and her tongue ripped out.¡±


    Ruan Zhu and Yun Shi Wei turned their heads and saw Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, covered head to toe in silver armor, with a silvery gray cloak over his shoulders. Behind him was an entire squadron of imperial bodyguards who entered the courtyard with awe-inspiring might.


    ¡°Big Brother Lu!¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes shined. Walking away from the room, she quickly stepped towards him, her eyes flowing with happiness.


    ¡°Wife, be careful. My son cannot be tormented like this by you.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi welcomed her with large strides and opened both his arms to encircle his wife.


    He had stayed in the military barracks for quite a few days with the previously trained Fei Sheng army that had extraordinary bravery. Several months ago, a battalion had been sent to the battlefield and experienced several skirmishes that had net them several accomplishments. The army obtained the recognition of their superiors and had very quickly been promoted.


    From this, the Emperor could see the Fifth Prince¡¯s ability and had people select five thousand soldiers with outstanding talents in all fields from the new recruits and sent them over.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi devoted enormous enthusiasm and hard work into the recruits. Treating the men like machines, he had them undergo devil-like training and the situation of him staying in the barracks rather than returning home became a frequent matter.


    ¡°Wife, this husband will show you something.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi indicated to Nangong Xun and the latter opened up a parcel. It was a pile of letters.


    The wet nurse saw those letters and her body abruptly started shaking. She was actually terrified to the extreme and could only beg for death at this moment.


    Ruan Zhu opened up the letters one by one. The more she read, the more furious and the more frightened she became.


    The letters recorded every word and action of hers and Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s, including some of her inconceivable thoughts and a few strange topics. Even the scene of her embroidering a black cloak with a northern goshawk on it was inside. In addition, there was also the detail of cartoon characters being sewed on top of her child¡¯s onesies.


    From the contents of the letter, it was very obvious the final destination of the letter was the master of the Eastern Palace. Everyone knew there was only one master of the Eastern Palace¨Cit was precisely the Crown Prince.


    If Zhao Hai were to know of the contents of the letters¨Ceven if he were to only see a tiny, tiny bit¨Che would still be able to discover the signs and her secret would be considered exposed. Then, if Zhao Hai wanted to ruin her, all he would need to do is to spread a few rumors.


    Ruan Zhu pulled Xuanyuan Zong Zhi into the room and urgently pressed him: ¡°Big Brother Lu, you¡¯ve long discovered the wet nurse was fishy and intercepted all of her letters, right? You haven¡¯t missed a single one?¡±


    ¡°Wife, I know you are worried about me. Don¡¯t be¡­¡­¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that his wife was very tense and was under the impression that she was anxious for him. Warmth spread through his heart and he pulled her against his chest: ¡°Previously, I had not discovered that anything was wrong with the wet nurse; it was just that I was especially careful with the people by our sides. While we were in Yu Zhou, I still had not known that the wet nurse was a spy sent over by the Crown Prince, but I had arranged spies surrounding the Ruan residence and took note of all who may pose a threat to us. The wet nurse has not sent out one letter before; all of her letters are here with me.¡±


    But Ruan Zhu was still faintly trembling and felt a lingering fear as she thought about how her secret had nearly been discovered by Zhao Hai. She was not afraid of him finding out about the existence of another transmigrator in Tian Chu, as in the vast and obscure sea of people, he may not be able to find her on that alone. However, she was terrified of Zhao Hai knowing that the person was precisely her.


    Nuan Qing, you can no longer go to Wu Shan temple to become a Buddhist monk. Since it is not possible for you to die, you are also not allowed to leave the Ruan residence, unless both Zhao Hai and the Crown Prince are dead will I then let you go. The wet nurse could also not be sent to Da Jue Mountain. It was imperative that she died and the death must be clean and efficient.


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, may these letters be burned?¡±


    ¡°Wife, you are too careful. Although the Crown Prince has great power, he still cannot do anything to your Lord Husband.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi smiled as he threw the pile of letters into the brazier that had been set on the ground for one to warm oneself with. All of a sudden, the fire became very strong and rose a little over one meter tall.


    Ruan Zhu watched as the several tens of letters turned to ashes in a blink of an eyes, relief present on her face.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi sighed: ¡°A pity that the wet nurse was exposed this early. I had wanted to use her as a countermeasure to distort truth with falsehood, but now that seems impossible.¡±

 Chapter 75

    Ruan Zhu moved to the doorway. Calling for someone to extract the socks stuffed in the wet nurses¡¯s mouth, she asked her: ¡°Since you have been breastfeeding Zhi Xi for so long, what other unfinished business do you have? If there are issues with money, perhaps I can help a little.¡±


    The wet nurse had obtained fresh air and gulped it down in large breaths then laid on the ground in kowtow: ¡°Begging niangniang to spare this slave¡¯s life and keep this slave¡¯s hands and feet safe. Even if imprisoned for a lifetime, this slave is willing.¡± She calculated in her heart: Wait for the Crown Prince to ascend the throne and has exterminated the Prince of Qi¡¯s family and followers. Then it will precisely be her day of freedom.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s expression was firm: ¡°If there was only the charge of having an affair, perhaps I could let you go. But all of your words and actions are ones that demand my life. How could I possibly let off a person who wishes to kill me?¡±


    The wet nurse¡¯s eyes were so wide they practically bulged and became filled with a bit of malevolence: ¡°I breastfed your son for so long but you still want to heartlessly kill me. Your heart is so black. Do you not fear retribution?¡±


    So angry her face was tinged with green, Ruan Zhu snapped towards a palace eunuch: ¡°Plug her mouth and shut her in the woodshed.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes were as if a fire had been lit: ¡°Why bother? Nangong, quickly dispose of the wet nurse and drag the corpse outside the city to feed wild dogs.¡± His eyes fell on the wet nurse and he coldly stated: ¡°Your courage is not small to dare curse members of this prince¡¯s family. Originally, this prince was going to kill just you but now the plan has changed. Your entire family will die. This prince has heard that your several husbands are currently serving the Crown Prince as imperial bodyguards. This prince will tell you now¨Cnot a single one of them will be able to stay alive.¡±


    The wet nurse became crazy: ¡°If you dare to move, the Crown Prince will definitely not let you go. You and your family will all definitely be killed by the Crown Prince.¡±


    A sinister look flashed on Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s face. He had Yun Shi Wei take their wife back into the room and waited until the two had entered. Closing the door in passing, he paused for the palace eunuch to stuff the wet nurse¡¯s mouth¡­¡­His hand grasped the Zhan Lu sword at his waist and slid it out of its sheath. With a wave of his hand, two rays of light flashed; the wet nurse gave a muffled groan as she flopped onto the ground, her two arms now separate from her torso.


    ¡°Drag her to feed the dogs.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi icily uttered a sentence. Zhan Lu sword returned to his sheath, he turned and entered the room. Stepping to the bedroom, he saw his pale-faced wife being held by Yun Shi Wei on the bed and distress couldn¡¯t help but emerge in his heart.


    Qu Gao and He Gua came over to remove his armor and properly store away the Zhan Lu sword before bringing over a clean set of leisurely clothes for their master.


    After Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had washed his hands, he sat down at the head of the bed: ¡°You are with child and must take care. Having been tired for this long, you ought to rest a bit. You can just hand over these small trifles for us men to handle.¡±


    Worry flashed in Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes: ¡°Has the Crown Prince been acting a little abnormally during this period? Such as using some incredible method to expand his strength?¡±


    A smile emerged on Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s face: ¡°I am also expanding my strength. There is no need for you to be concerned. Your man is not so weak where even protecting one¡¯s wife and child cannot be done.¡±


    Distress that was hard to make sense of flit across Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes: ¡°The Crown Prince¡¯s side has surely used a peculiar method that has never been used before. For example, the strength of their intelligence has increased, the army is currently conducting very strange drills, and new kinds of military weapons are currently being researched?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was astonished: ¡°How did you know this?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s mood was heavy, as if lead had been poured over her. She extended a hand to grasp Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s finger: ¡°The Crown Prince has an extremely skilled adviser, and you must dispose of him. That man is precisely the one who killed Steward Wang¨CZhao Hai; the crippled man who came up with the idea of stir-frying tea.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was somber: ¡°So it was him. I was thinking how did the Crown Prince¡¯s strength abruptly increase and inquiries from multiple sides have failed. If we could ascertain the person, then it would be easy to handle. But, Wife, how would you know of this?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about how I know this now. However, Big Brother Lu, let me remind you¨CZhao Hai poses a very large threat to us. If this person is around, we will be in danger. Because¡­¡­Because the things that I know, that person basically knows as well. You¡­¡­You must think of a way to eliminate him.¡± Ruan Zhu was despondent and the hand that had grabbed him unconsciously loosened: ¡°The reason why Steward Wang was killed by him was precisely because Steward Wang understood things that the other man knew. If he knows that I also understand, he will definitely not let me go.¡±


    ¡°This is the reason why you have always been so scared of Zhao Hai?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was stunned: ¡°I understand now. I will think of a way to eliminate him. In any case, I must do this for you and the children.¡±


    But Ruan Zhu could hear between his words. It was not merely as simple as him eliminating Zhao Hai; he had decided to set himself against the Crown Prince. She suddenly was full of grief. As a member of the imperial family, even if one did not have the intention to strive and fight for the throne, one still had no choice but to fiercely and heartlessly do so in order to survive.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s mood became a little better as at least the matter with Zhao Hai was now half-solved. The only aspect where she was stronger than Zhao Hai was that she knew the other¡¯s secrets and the other did not know did not know about her.


    She would take this opportunity while the Heavens were standing on her side.


    Ruan Zhu instructed Qu Gao to send some servants to place Nuan Qing under house arrest. She was worried the Crown Prince¡¯s men would try to get in contact with him and had no option but to be cautious.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that his wife was exhausted. He still had some questions to ask but restrained himself.


    The next day, when Ruan Zhu woke up.


    He could no longer resist and asked the question from yesterday: What exactly does ¡®strengthening intelligence¡¯ refer to?


    Ruan Zhu only responded after thinking for a moment: ¡°I¡¯m also not too sure and can only give a rough direction, but I¡¯ll slowly supplement it when I remember more in the future.¡±


    ¡°All right. Take your time.¡±


    ¡°Intelligence is not as simple as sending out several spies; in fact, it is much more complicated. This is a formidable information network with subordinates across all industries and institutions. The main task is to collect and analyze public and private knowledge that involve domestic and international affairs; businesses and individuals; national secrets; cultural trends; and information regarding soldiers. There is also the allocation of personnel and training consisting of assassinations, destruction, deceiving and changing the popular opinion¡­¡­¡±


    From the information Ruan Zhu had seen online, she repeated all of the ones that she remembered.


    Referring to the CIA of the United States and other famous intelligence organizations, she explained the various tasks of each division to him and also spoke of a few famous spy cases and intelligence agents.


    Those spies always wore famous brands, drove limousines, and dined in five-star restaurants. They frequently dealt with elites of society¨Cgenerals, diplomats, ministers, and bankers¡­¡­All spies were extraordinary sharpshooters, boxers, and drivers. Shooting, wrestling, driving were all part of the teaching curriculum in spy schools all over the world.


    Ruan Zhu spoke of these people and matters by replacing the modern words with their ancient equivalent. It was not a lot, but it was rather clear and thorough.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s mouth was wide open with amazement. These things were unheard of and he had never seen nor heard of any recorded material on this before! But in the end, he heard his wife say: ¡°I don¡¯t know a lot and currently can only say this much. Just choose some based on their usefulness, okay?¡±


    This was still not counted as a lot? When all was said and done, how much more could there possibly be that he did not know?


    ¡°Establishing this sort of tremendous information network should require a great deal of money, yes?¡±


    As a child of the imperial family, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was extremely wealthy, but it was not to the extent where he had enough money to start an organization.


    ¡°Money is all earned.¡± Ruan Zhu thought for a moment, then raised her eyes towards him: ¡°Actually, there are multiple ways to earn money. It only depends on what method you use.¡±


    The country of Tian Chu had entered a drought that they saw once in a hundred years, immediately followed by floods and devastating destruction. Aside from stockpiling food, the masses¡¯ demand anything else¨Csuch as for luxury goods of gold and silver jewels¨Cwere much less than before. It could be said that with the exception of foodstuffs, there was no profit made from selling all other items.


    What about luxury goods that had never existed before in this world, hmm?! For example, glass or mirrors¨Cwouldn¡¯t people be shocked at the magic of a mirror? What a pity that according to this time period, Shen Kuo had yet to be born and the world was missing chiming clocks.[a]


    Ruan Zhu explained the process of making glass. It was not too technical and only required a few procedures: Construct a porcelain kiln; find some quartz gravel; then add a few materials; boil them in a graphite bowl; use a magnet to discard the metal material; make it more transparent; then use a pipe to blow glass.


    ¡°I only understand the process, and the technical aspects can only be slowly mastered. It will be easier to make if you request a few pottery masters.¡± Ruan Zhu recalled the over-one meter wide glazed tile lamp that the Ruan family only brought out during the New Years. It had been purchased from a Persian merchant and its value was a hundred thousand taels of silver.


    Glazed tile was precisely glass but because of technological limits, it was not clear like conventional glass. There was originally a quite mature glass-making industry during China¡¯s Spring and Autumn period,[b] but later years saw the crack down on foreign goods and the several-hundred years of Chinese glass culture faded away. It did not rise again as it was mainly porcelain that flourished.


    ¡°Glass can be manufactured in mirrors that will be incredibly life-like, as if people had placed themselves inside it. The manufacturing process is even more simple¨Cjust apply quicksilver on one side. But it needs one month before it can be used and the yield is also not that high. However, the price is very expensive. The manufacturing cost of one mirror as large as a palm is only several taels but the market price will be over one hundred taels.¡±


    A hundred taels. An ordinary civilian working hard every day would require ten years to be able to earn that amount.


    Better glass mirrors are actually silver-plated goods but Ruan Zhu¡¯s knowledge was not that extensive. Mirrors coated with mercury were the first choice of many transmigrated stallion males in their plans to get rich, and as she had read quite a few transmigration novels, she naturally understood this.


    Mercury mirrors were first invented by Venetians and they monopolized the production of mirrors around the world.


    The French loved beauty and soon, an unending stream of francs flowed into the Venetians¡¯ pockets. As the Head of State ordered his ministers to steal the glass-making technique, they used a large sum to bribe four Venetian mirror artisans. Thus, the secrets of the mirrors were publicized for all to know, causing prices to take a dive and ordinary civilians could now afford them.


    ¡°Actually, there is not much point in using glass to make household goods; it is better to use porcelain that is more durable. Not only is glass fragile, but if the skills are not up to standard, it will explode into fragments upon coming in contact with boiling water so people who are afraid to injure their mouths will not dare use it. It is best to make glass into mirrors as all men and women are fond of having one, and it can also be sold overseas at sky-high prices. At that time, silver will fly like snowflakes over to us and you will have the money to even easily establish a country.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi held his breath and also did not blink, as if afraid he would miss a word. The information his wife spoke of was like the exceptional sounds from a guqin, beautifully sonorous and resounding. He hugged her, completely full of emotion: ¡°Wife, this husband is fortunate to have you in this life.¡±


    A smile danced on the corner of Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth. To be able to help him was truly a great feeling.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi remembered something and his brows creased: ¡°Does Zhao Hai also know of these things?¡±


    Ruan Zhu heavily nodded her head, her two eyes similar to small lanterns: ¡°He definitely knows.¡± Producing mirrors and glass was not too technical and knowing of it was also not difficult.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi stood up: ¡°This man cannot remain.¡±


    A small palace eunuch stopped outside the beaded curtain and bowed before reporting:


    ¡°Prince, niangniang, the ones below have just transmitted a message¨CNuan Qing has committed suicide.¡±


    Ruan Zhu instantly became silent and only murmured after a while: ¡°Why would he kill himself?¡± She had never thought of wanting his life. Was it that he no longer had any meaning to live or did he truly have feelings for the wet nurse and decided to accompany her?


    ¡°Nuan Chun is currently handling his funeral arrangements and is asking if niangniang has any instructions?¡±


    Instructions? What instructions? Ruan Zhu felt a little lost. Before her eyes flashed the image of that man who had never really liked to speak and had always done his job properly.


    When all was said and done, they had been together for this long! Ruan Zhu suddenly felt her nose was sour: ¡°Find the Steward to set aside some silver and buy the best coffin! His parents and brothers¡­¡­¡± Right, they were still in Lan Zhou. She would wait until the day she had returned to Lan Zhou to compensate them then!


    [a] ÉòÀ¨ Shen Kuo (1031-1095) was a Chinese polymathic scientist who was the first to describe the magnetic needle compass and true north. (Wikipedia) Chiming clocks are, well, clocks that chime with every hour. I didn¡¯t find any information relating them to Shen Kuo, but he did invent a new form of inflow water clocks.


    [b] ´ºÇïʱ´ú Spring and Autumn period was roughly from 771 to 476 BC.

 Chapter 76

    On the evening of the second day, Nuan Chun finished Nuan Qing¡¯s funeral arrangements. After bathing and changing his clothes, he arrived at Yi Xin Residence.


    At this time, Ruan Zhu had already finished the evening meal and was currently waiting to retire for the night. Neither of her two husbands were home as they were both busy with their own work. She was unaccustomed to other people serving her, thus when the palace eunuch brought in a basin of steaming water, she had planned to wash her feet herself. Seeing Nuan Chun had entered, she beckoned for him to take a seat.


    Nuan Chun chose a small stool and sat opposite her. Bending his waist, he very naturally washed his master¡¯s feet and attentively massaged the acupuncture points on the soles.


    Ruan Zhu was perched at the head of the bed and looked at Nuan Chun. This unique massage technique had been taught by Nuan Qing and she remembered how unspeakably relaxed and light her body felt every time after one of Nuan Qing¡¯s massages.


    ¡°What did Nuan Qing say before he was at death¡¯s door?¡± Ruan Zhu did not believe that so many years of feeling between master and servant could not equal a wet nurse who had been here for less than a year.


    Nuan Chun¡¯s face was laden with grief and the hands that were massaging her feet stalled: ¡°I invited a physician from the medicine hall to treat him. When that physician heard that Nuan Qing was one that did not abide by the rules, his manner of speaking was incredibly rude and after he had reluctantly treated him, he didn¡¯t even bother to accept the medical fee and left with his medicine box. Perhaps because he had suffered a large blow, Nuan Qing cried his heart out and refused to eat a single bite of the food I brought over from the kitchen. I asked him why did he go to the trouble of having such deep feelings for the wet nurse? That person has even died but he still grieved over her like that¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu saw that he had trailed off and pressed him for more details: ¡°What did Nuan Qing say?¡±


    Nuan Chun switched to his master¡¯s other foot and continued massaging, remaining silent for a while before finally saying: ¡°Nuan Qing said a few words blaspheming Eldest Miss¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Do not hesitate to speak.¡±


    Nuan Chun wavered: ¡°Nuan Qing said he did not have much affection for the wet nurse. He said that when the wet nurse had pasted herself on him, he honestly couldn¡¯t resist the temptation. Nuan Qing has seen Master¡¯s body before and when he did that with the wet nurse, he always couldn¡¯t help but think of Master. I¡­¡­I was unable to bear it any longer and slapped him.¡±


    At that time when he had heard that Nuan Qing had actually compared a wet nurse to their honorable Eldest Miss, he had become furious. Unable to control his own hand, he had aimed a slap towards the other, but after he had done so, he saw Nuan Qing¡¯s painful eyes and immediately regretted it.


    ¡°It was me who caused his death.¡± Finished with the massage, Nuan Chun picked up a towel to dry his master¡¯s small feet before handing the basin of water to a palace eunuch standing by the side for the other to toss out. He continued: ¡°I worried his wounds were too serious for him to move about freely and slept in his room that same evening. The first half of the night, he was still weeping and I had yet to fall asleep but then later exhaustion overtook me. Who could have imagined, when I woke up early in the morning, I would see a corpse hanging from the rafters and was so scared my soul fled. After I saw that it was Nuan Qing, I walked over and discovered he had been stiff for a long time.¡±


    Ruan Zhu could not say anything for a very long while. She had always ignored the two bedwarmers¡¯ feelings. Although they were servants, they were still normal, healthy males yet had to endure their physiological desire towards their mistress that was in her prime. Seeing a wet nurse that was also young and beautiful, and also under the circumstance where the other deliberately approached, not being able to resist was reasonable.


    Ever since the human gene had mutated, a set of norms had been set. Females married; men too responsibility. Women painstakingly worked to preserve a man¡¯s ancestral line; men should protect their wife and children for their entire lifetime, in accordance with regulations and following conventions.


    The men of Tian Chu actually lived quite a hard life.


    Ruan Zhu scooted sideways in the bed and pointed to the empty space beside her: ¡°Do not return to your room tonight. Just sleep here and chat with me.¡±


    Nuan Chun was stunned silly: ¡°Eldest Miss, how could this be allowed?¡±


    Ruan Zhu indifferently said: ¡°Aren¡¯t you my bedwarmer? What¡¯s wrong with keeping me company? Didn¡¯t we use to sleep in one bed together?¡± In her brain were some shattered memories pertaining to this body¡¯s childhood. Before she had married, she had often slept in one bed with the two of them, like 3 siblings, three young innocents. It was purely sleeping and they had never done anything that crossed the line.


    Nuan Chun¡¯s expression was one of nervousness. Gripping his lapel, he refused to budge. After Eldest Miss had married, he had never had the opportunity to be close to her and now, he was a little dazed and embarrassed and at a loss for what to do.


    Ruan Zhu yawned: ¡°I currently cannot do anything in this state and only want you to accompany me. Could it that you dislike me now?¡±


    ¡°This slave does not dare.¡±


    Nuan Chun slowly took off his outer clothes then crawled into the bed and laid down face-up on the bed. His four limbs were rigid and he did not dare to randomly move about. After a while, he remembered that the lights were still on. He got up to blow them out and then rigidly laid back down, but saw that he had been trapped in the blanket. Eldest Miss had nestled against him with her fragrant body and Nuan Chun¡¯s head immediately became blank except for a single droning note.


    ¡°Wrap your arms around me as I sleep. I am not used to being alone.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Miss!¡± Nuan Chun was practically shaking as he stretched his arms underneath his master¡¯s neck. As soon as the female¡¯s soft body was in his arms, Nuan Chun¡¯s heart was stopped up by a gigantic feeling of satisfaction. He could only think that even if he were to immediately die, it would all be worth it.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, you really ought to toughen up. Your arm doesn¡¯t have the least bit of strength.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had been wrapped in his arms and slowly fell asleep.


    Nuan Chun looked at the dainty outline of his master in the dark and for a long time, found it difficult to sleep. Not daring to move in fear of waking her up, it was only when the sky had nearly brightened that he finally, dazedly, fell asleep.


    Henceforth, whenever the two male masters were not at home, Nuan Chun would reside in his master¡¯s room and now used even more effort when attending to her.


    Ever since Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had received Ruan Zhu¡¯s suggestions, he soon conducted a series of actions. During the day, he would head to the barracks and drill soldiers. When he had time to return, he would handle the glass factory and had already bought a porcelain kiln. He had also sent people to look for graphite to make a pot to boil the ingredients, then sought good quality quartz granules and exceptional porcelain masters¡­¡­


    An intelligence organization was also on the agenda. From enlisted soldiers and commoners, several people with strong backbones had been chosen and then been divided into separate divisions to undergo training.


    Yun Shi Wei was also so busy that his shadow could not bee seen. After receiving Ruan Zhu¡¯s idea, he had carried out the most exquisite training drills for the soldiers in his regiment.


    Two days before the winter solstice, the men could finally stay at home as the Winter Solstice Festival was a major holiday.


    At the Cang Huang Mountain battlefield, the imperial army had sent a messenger to the capital, relaying they had secured a major victory. In his joy, the Emperor declared the entire city would have five days of holiday.


    From the beginning until now, the Red Eyebrow army had an unshakable momentum. The enemy frequently used a human wave attack when their weapons were not strong enough, which often caused the imperial army to be helpless in the onslaught. Relying on their advanced weaponry to maintain their position, occasionally the imperial army would have small victories, but they had never had one so decisive before.


    This time, the imperial army had exercised a strategy to lure the enemy by using a squadron of cavalry to lead them into a valley. They had then immediately blocked the passage through the valley and used the modified trebuchets to toss out the advanced gunpowder and launched a fierce attack. The imperial army had also laid in wait on either sides of the hilltops to push large boulders down with sticks and aim large-scale ballistas at the enemy in the valley, creating a large scene of confusion and explosions.


    The annihilation of one hundred thousand enemies was the first major success that the imperial court had ever obtained since the rebels had marched north.


    The news entered the city walls and traveled along the great streets and small alleys, spreading throughout the city and causing the entire capital to be full of jubilation. The sound of firecrackers filled the sky as the commoners took out the ones the had already prepared for the Winter Solstice Festival and set them off early.


    Though the current Emperor was fond of dance and writing, he did not feel too strongly about politics. But his temperament was quite good as he was one of those who never tried to offend others and did not treat the commoners badly. The inhabitants underneath the Son of Heaven¡¯s foot placed the utmost importance on the imperial family. With the Emperor as the spiritual representative, if the Emperor was present, their vigor would also be present.


    The mantra proposed by the rebels of the south of ¡®Equality Between the Rich and the Poor¡¯ and ¡®Wait for Riches¡¯ had no connection with the citizens of the capital.


    In history, natural disasters and ** descended on all dynasties. Rebels did not think of surviving catastrophes together and instead took the opportunity to heighten unrest, resulting in more people losing their lives.


    The leaders, obsessed with power, used ridiculous schemes to make a fool out of the common people. What slaying of the white serpent, ah? What blaming the stone person, ah?[a] But, there were precisely people that were willing to believe in these things.


    Reportedly, before the uprising, the head of the Red Eyebrow army had hunted a wild boar in the mountains. Then when they split open the belly, he found a green piece of paper in the boar¡¯s stomach with the word ¡®Rebel¡¯ or something like that.


    Afterwards, everyone had mulled over this and decided that it was a revelation from the Heavens; therefore, this group of hot-headed villagers grabbed shovels, hoes, wooden clubs. Of course, there were also a few that took spears, swords, or halberds, and followed the main crowd in rebelling.


    MF¨CAn entire group of idiots. If a green slip of paper was in a boar¡¯s belly for a long time, it would have long become mush. It was clearly someone taking advantage of others not paying attention when the stomach was sliced open to stuff it inside.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was unable to contain his joy at being able to return home. As soon as he entered the room, he picked his wife up in a princess carry and spun her around a few times: ¡°Wife, Emperor-Father said the majority of the credit for the imperial army¡¯s victory this time belongs to you. If you hadn¡¯t thought of good methods to improve the weapons, it is possible Cang Huang Mountain would have long been lost.¡±


    Ruan Zhu also smiled so that her brows curved. Dizzy from being twirled, she wrapped both of her arms around his neck: ¡°Be more gentle. There¡¯s only one more month until the babies are born and we must be careful.¡±


    ¡°What is it, Wife?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi became nervous as soon as he heard her words. Placing her on the bed, he turned his head and hollered out the door: ¡°Qu Gao, He Gua, quickly go find Imperial Physician Zhang. Niangniang does not feel well. Hurry!¡±


    ¡°I am not uncomfortable; there¡¯s no need for the urgency. Imperial Physician Zhang and Wet Nurse Li have already came yesterday to take my pulse, saying the babies are all right and the position of the fetuses are very normal. Because this is the second pregnancy and the pelvis has closed once already, as long as there are no accidents, the delivery should be smooth.¡±


    ¡°We must still take more caution during this period. It is better to invite the imperial physician over to take your pulse. I will also feel relieved, then.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi recalled the difficult birth his wife had gone through this time last year and his heart wrenched: ¡°There is still one more month until delivery so why is it strange to worry? How about I request a long vacation tomorrow to stay with you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s probably not a good idea, right? You have so many things to do.¡±


    ¡°The soldiers¡¯ training was given in advance to the deputy general to manage. There is nothing to worry about. Furthermore, I should handle some more personal issues. The glass factory is now fully equipped and can almost start construction while the intelligence building is also in the middle of construction. It is just that I do not know what names to give them?¡±


    ¡°I have actually thought of this before. The transparency of glass is extremely high and the reflection that a mirror produces is something that leaves nothing to be desired. There is a very beautiful line from a poem that goes ¡®The moon breaks through clouds as the shadows of the flowers dance¡® so why not just name it ¡®Hua Nong Ying¡¯ Glass Workshop? The information network can be called ¡®Tian Wang Embassy.¡¯ Heaven¡¯s net has wide meshes but nothing escapes it. It will be an information network just like a big net.¡±[b]


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes glittered: ¡°The moon breaks through clouds as the shadows of the flowers dance; Hua Nong Ying Glass Workshop. Tian Wang Embassy; Heaven¡¯s net has wide meshes but nothing escapes it. Very good. Wife, I just knew you would have good ideas.¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought for a moment, then asked: ¡°Big Brother Lu, what is the situation with Zhao Hai?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi knit his brows: ¡°There are no clues to start from. The Crown Prince pays special attention to this person and has set aside several imperial bodyguards to protect him. Although killing him is not difficult, it would become very troublesome if the matter was to fall into Emperor-Father¡¯s side.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was silent. Since an assassination was not possible, why not use another method? The best strategy was to ruin this person so that all others would spurn him.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi continued: ¡°We have found out from the secret letter sent over by a spy that Zhao Hai has also suggested a glass factory and information network to the Crown Prince, but the Crown Prince has paid more attention to manufacturing glass and is less keen on intelligence. Not long after I had just purchased a porcelain kiln, I received notice that the Crown Prince had forcibly bought a kiln at a very low price at Zhong Ji, west of the city walls.¡±


    Who knows if Zhao Hai had spoken superficially or what? It was obvious the Crown Prince did not recognize how many benefits an information network had; his gaze was not broad enough! Just for a selfish reason, he forcibly robbed another¡¯s possession. This sort of person becoming the emperor of Tian Chu was a calamity, not a blessing.


    Ruan Zhu frowned as she mulled things over for a short moment before asking: ¡°Then what about public opinon?¡±


    ¡°Public opinion?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi did not understand.


    ¡°What happens if a man of Tian Chu is sexually immoral?¡±


    ¡°He has naturally abandoned the masses. If the crime is light, he will be paraded through the streets. If the crime is heavy, he will be drowned or have to ride a wooden donkey.¡±[c] If Zhao Hai committed the crime of adultery, it would depend on what his defenders did and if the Crown Prince was willing to protect him against everyone¡¯s scorn.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi thought of the year Emperor-Father had found him. In the presence of numerous officials in the Golden Hall, he had abandoned public opinion and exposed the gecko cinnabar mark on his arm for the others to inspect his purity; otherwise, how would he have the achievements he had now? It was very likely he would have long been abandoned by the common people. Even so, his enemy still constantly humiliated him by saying he was from a brothel, causing even his Empress-Mother to look at him with obvious disgust.


    There was only his beloved wife. In her eyes, he had always been noble and pure like a white lotus. But he did not know his wife¡¯s thoughts. She regarded him as being an artist who sold his skill, not himself; someone who also had extraordinary guqin skill. In the modern times, wouldn¡¯t he be precisely an artist?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi thought for a moment. Warmth lingered in his heart for a while and he couldn¡¯t resist hugging his wife.


    Since the Tang dynasty with Wu Ze Tian and Princess Tai Ping, a woman¡¯s three husbands and four attendants gradually increased. Several decades later, after the country of Tian Chu was founded following the An Shi Rebellion, natural disaster struck resulting in the death of countless women, and the polyandry system of ¡®one woman, many husbands¡¯ was established.


    Women worked to increase the country¡¯s population, and in return, men remained strictly virtuous for their wife.


    ¡°Does Zhao Hai have a wife yet?¡±


    ¡°His wife is incredibly beautiful and is precisely Shun Tian Hall¡¯s magistrate¡¯s daughter. In order to curry favor with the Crown Prince, the magistrate wed his daughter to Zhao Hai. This matter occurred half a month ago.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± A smile appeared on Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth: ¡°The daughter of the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall must be dissatisfied. Any woman who married such a man would be mad with fury.¡± Zhao Hai was nothing to look at and was also crippled. Which woman would feel happy?


    Ruan Zhu remembered that the feeling Zhao Hai gave others was of a strange and negative air. She didn¡¯t know if the reason was because he had brought some of the haze atop the Nai He Bridge[d] along with him into the world of the living when he crossed over?


    ¡°The bride is fourteen and is a daughter of one of the secondary husbands of the magistrate¡¯s wife. She is not in the magistrate¡¯s heart, which is why she was used as a springboard and married off to Zhao Hai.¡±


    ¡°The magistrate¡¯s daughter surely hates Zhao Hai and will quickly accept secondary husbands. But Zhao Hai refuses to agree no matter what, right?¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes sparkled with amusement: ¡°So, the husband and wife pair frequently fight, making it a common scene in their home, and the magistrate¡¯s daughter refuses to let him touch her.¡±


    ¡°How did you know this? It is like you had personally seen them as it is certainly how you have described.¡±


    ¡°But if Zhao Hai comes across a girl as delicate as a flower and as refined as precious jade, how will he be able to endure it? There will definitely be problems between them. If Zhao Hai tastes the sweetness of a relationship between men and women and then is not allowed to touch, he will go insane. Perhaps he would go hunting and won¡¯t be able to bear it when he sees other pretty females.¡±


    ¡°That is impossible, correct?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was full of doubt: ¡°How could Zhao Hai do such a foolish thing that would destroy his future? Is there something wrong with his head?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s make a bet. I am certain Zhao Hai cannot control the thing underneath. Lord Husband, what about you, hmm?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was not fully convinced but he said: ¡°I will not gamble with you because I believe you will surely win.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s dimples showed themselves. As a male transmigrator, he would surely think of himself as the core and believe that he was the tranmisgrated male lead who had only crossed over to the country of Tian Chu because the Heavens had given him an opportunity to change the world. Perhaps his dreams were full of how he would wrap a beauty in his right arm and embrace another in his left. MF¨Cyou read too many Q*dian novels and inflicted much suffering!


    ¡°Niangniang! There is an elderly man outside the entrance that claims to be niangniang¡®s maternal grandfather and is asking for an audience.¡±


    Maternal grandfather? My maternal grandfather from where? Could it be that Grandfather had also transmigrated? But he had passed away when I was really small, ah!


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s brain was still stuck on her conversation with her husband and had not yet flipped back around.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that she was confused and reminded her: ¡°He is your maternal grandfather from the capital. Did you not go see him not long after you arrived in the capital?¡±


    Ruan Zhu smacked her forehead. So it was Madam Ruan¡¯s father.


    ¡°That¡­¡­go tell Second Miss to receive the guest! Just say I do not feel well.¡±


    If it was the previous her that had said this and the neighbors were to know of this matter, it was certain they would say that the Eldest Miss of the Ruan clan had no education and even Maternal Grandfather would also believe it. But now, she was the honorable Princess of Qi and putting on airs was regarded as something that was right and proper.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi gazed at his wife and was a little anxious. His wife was sometimes very shrewd yet sometimes also acted like she was missing a brain. He only wished that his children would not inherit the side of her that was lacking.


    [a] These are references to two events that led to uprisings in feudal China. The one with the white snake is for Liu Bang (who later became Emperor Gaozu of Han, the founding and first emperor of the Han dynasty) who rebelled against the Qin dynasty. Reportedly, Liu Bang killed a gigantic white snake and when his followers later encountered and asked a woman why she was weeping by the road, she responded ¡°My child, the White Emperor¡¯s son, has been slain by the Red Emperor¡± and they took it to mean Liu Bang would become a ruler. (Wikipedia) The stone person is for Han Shan Tong, who was one of the early Red Turban rebellion leaders and rebelled against the Yuan dynasty. He claimed to have found a one-eyed stone figure while repairing the Yellow River which told him to revolt against the current ruling regime. (Wikipedia)


    [b] The line (ÔÆÆÆÔÂÀ´»¨ÅªÓ°) comes from the poem ÌìÏÉ×Ó¡¤ Ë®µ÷ÊýÉù³Ö¾ÆÌý (Fairy from Heaven) by ÕÅÏÈ Zhang Xian, a Song dynasty poet. The name that RZ suggested is the last three characters of the line and roughly translates to ¡®dancing flower shadows.¡¯ // Tian Wang is literally ¡®Heaven¡¯s net(work).¡¯ The idiom means ¡®the way of Heaven is fair, but the guilty will not escape.¡¯


    [c] Æïľ¿ (Riding a wooden donkey) is similar to the wooden horse punishment in the West, though rather than the triangular ¡®saddle¡¯ in the West, the saddle is usually flat or a little arched and has a little rod sticking up in the middle which would then be inserted into a female¡¯s v*gina. The stick could move up and down in more complicated styles and the female¡¯s thighs were nailed onto the saddle to prevent her from moving. Since this novel is


    [d] In Chinese mythology, this is a bridge in the underworld that every soul has to cross over before one can be reincarnated.

 Chapter 77

    Glossary


    ʯ | dan | dry measure for grain around one hundred liters


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    If the one who was to be the mother had a muddled head, it was very difficult to ask for the children in her belly to not be like her!


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was currently fretting over this matter yet saw his wife turn her head¡­¡­


    Ruan Zhu saw her husband looking at her with a little disdain and couldn¡¯t help but become angry: ¡°Hey, what¡¯s with that look?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡­nothing. I thought about the situation with Zhao Hai. Didn¡¯t you say he would surely go hunting?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi blinked and changed the topic: ¡°How about I send an attractive woman to tempt him?¡±


    ¡°Sure, but who are you going to send?¡±


    ¡°What about Nangong¡¯s wife?¡±


    You want to publicly give Bodyguard Nangong a green hat to wear? Ruan Zhu suddenly felt her husband was extremely black-bellied. None of the children of the imperial family were good. Don¡¯t look at how their outside appearance resembled humans; the wicked things that they¡¯ve done in the dark were too numerous, ah, too numerous.


    ¡°Would Bodyguard Nangong be willing?¡±


    ¡°It is beyond his control even if he is unwilling. Furthermore, it is high time his wife should accept secondary husbands.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi smiled evilly.


    While the married couple were conversing, Imperial Physician Zhang arrived while leading a small child who was carrying a medicine chest on his back. He beamed as he entered with Qu Gao by his side.


    He was now the dedicated physician of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence. During the economic depression where even government officials were commonly drinking thin porridge and eating pickles, the elder was living a good life. He received double a soldier¡¯s pay each month; in addition to the portion from the imperial court, the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence also gave him some. But the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence was much, much more generous than the imperial court. Aside from silver, there was also white rice, flour, and everything else he could need.


    Ruan Zhu sat on the lounge chair and allowed Imperial Physician Zhang to take her pulse.


    The elder chuckled: ¡°Everything is normal. This humble one can confidently guarantee two plump sons will be born. Prince can just wait to become a Father!¡±


    ¡°It is two sons, not two girls and is also not twins of mixed sex?¡± She wanted a daughter. Always only having sons was so boring and she couldn¡¯t help but to inquire: ¡°I have heard that physicians can determine the gender by feeling the pulse and do not know if this is true?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had also heard of this saying, but they were just words and should not be fully believed.


    Imperial Physician Zhang deliberated for a moment before responding: ¡°It is not that there is no basis in physicians being able to determine the sex of the unborn child. The male yang, the female yin; there are theories of the left as male and the right as female. If the pulse on the left hand is quicker than on the right, the fetus is male. If the right hand has a weak pulse, the fetus is female. Regarding the issue of speed of the pulses on each hand, there is no harm in niangniang trying it for herself when she has time. Ah, ah, however, this old one thinks that only after the child has been born can we know if they are a boy or girl.¡±


    Engrossed, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi placed his finger on top of his wife¡¯s pulse. Letting Qu Gao count, he waited until the other had counted fifty times before calling a stop and faced his wife, all pleased: ¡°The pulse on the left hand is eighty-seven and the right hand is only sixty-nine. It must be twins of mixed sexes.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was delighted, but after a moment, her beautiful eyes clouded with worry: ¡°I want a daughter, but if in case it really is twins of mixed genders, and then we give the second child up for adoption to the Ruan clan, who would become the heir to the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi blanked and awkwardly smiled: ¡°At the time, I had not considered the possibility of having twins of separate sex and spoke too grandly. However, if Wife were to birth triplets, then all would be good.¡±


    Ruan Zhu scoffed and rolled her eyes: ¡°Do you think you are shopping where they will give you as much as you want?¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang smiled: ¡°Feeling the pulse to determine whether the child is a boy or girl is not necessarily accurate. It is better to wait until after they have been born to see the result.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi let Qu Gao lead Imperial Physician Zhang to the side courtyard for a meal.


    At present, there were numerous inhabitants in the Ruan residence. The palace eunuchs and imperial bodyguards brought over from the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence numbered in the several dozens and this residence simply couldn¡¯t house all of them.


    Ruan Yu had Steward Yang buy the residence of their neighbor, Wife Li. Ever since their family¡¯s Eldest Miss had become a Princess, Steward Yang had walked with his back extremely straight and became immensely pretentious. He had forcibly snatched Wife Li¡¯s residence and made it so that the other party could only sell it to him.


    If he had forcibly bought land from another clan, Ruan Yu would have surely let Steward Yang have it for relying on force to bully others. But she had enmity with Wife Li; that old woman was covered head to toe with shortcomings. Not mentioning how she crazily gossiped about others, whenever she saw whichever family that was living well, she would always badmouth them. When the Ruan clan had moved to the capital, they had frequently


    been victimized by her.


    Having sent out Imperial Physician Zhang to have a meal, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi carried his wife to the bed and had her lay down to rest for a while.


    He Gua pushed the door open and saluted: ¡°Niangniang, the Second Miss of the Ruan clan is seeking an audience.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was displeased: ¡°When did my younger sister begin to require an announcement when she arrived at my room? It is broad daylight; not the fifth strike of the night watch. Is there anything shameful here?¡± What she did every day¨Cthere were things that the two palace eunuchs who kept watch daily in front of the door did not know?


    He Gua¡¯s face turned white from fright. Glancing at His Highness, he rushed to kneel down: ¡°This small one deserves death.¡± He had only announced her because Prince was currently at home, but after seeing His Highness¡¯s expression, it was obvious the latter was not willing to speak up for him. Wuwu¡­¡­it was not easy being a servant, ah!


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi lazily drawled:¡± Withdraw. Do not be such a hindrance. Go find Nangong Xun for twenty hits of the cane.¡±


    ¡°This slave will follow.¡± He Gua sorrowfully answered.


    ¡°It is not such a big matter so why on earth should he be caned? It is fine to just not eat the evening meal.¡± Ruan Zhu spoke up.


    ¡°Thanking niangniang.¡± He Gua knocked his head against the ground. Eating one less meal was always better than being caned. In the future he must take special attention that niangniang was the actual master of the house. As long as niangniang was present, he could thoroughly ignore Prince¡¯s existence.


    Ruan Yu carried her little nephew into the bedroom. The little guy was now twelve months and knew how to call for his mother. The day before yesterday, he had called Ruan Yu ¡®Aunt¡¯ and the latter had been so delighted that she had rashly taken him to live in her courtyard for several days.


    ¡°Ma, Ma¡­¡­¡±


    Laughing, Zhi Xi struggled free from Ruan Yu¡¯s arms, ran over to his mother¡¯s side, and crawled onto the bed with his chubby legs.


    Ruan Zhu happily stretched out her arms to hold her son.


    With a glance, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was alarmed. His son certainly could not withstand the little fellow¡¯s torment and he hurriedly picked up the toddler.


    Zhi Xi was unable to grab his mother and his mouth flattened, about to cry. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi coaxed: ¡°Be good, Third Father will take you to ride horses.¡± As soon as Zhi Xi heard there were horses to ride, he immediately stopped crying and grabbed onto Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, babbling: ¡°Wide horsey¡­¡­wide horsey¡­¡­¡±


    A few days ago, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had rode outside the city and had conveniently taken Zhi Xi along. While being carried atop a galloping horse, the little guy was surprisingly not the least bit scared and was ecstatic. After he had returned, he continuously shouted to ¡®wide horsey,¡¯ so as soon as he heard there were horsies for him to ride, he immediately forgot about his mother.


    Ruan Zhu waited until the room had quieted before turning towards Ruan Yu: ¡°Maternal Grandfather came to our residence?¡±


    Ruan Yu raised the corners of her mouth, a touch of helplessness in her eyes: ¡°Isn¡¯t it just to shoot the breeze? These past two years, if it wasn¡¯t the famine then it was the flood, and no one has been living well. Maternal Grandfather previously had some shops that closed because business was not good, so he relied on his meager official¡¯s salary to live and also had to provide for their bastard. It has caused them to nowadays be extremely hard-pressed. Earlier, I gave Maternal Grandfather five hundred taels of silver and also had Xiao San Zi send them ten dan of husked rice via carriage.¡±


    ¡°You sending things out like this, if everyone was to know, they would all come over to shoot the breeze.¡± There were quite a few relatives of the Ruan clan, and the majority of the concubine-born relatives of the previous generation resided in the capital.


    ¡°That is also something that cannot be controlled. It will be fine after next year when you have given birth and we have moved to Lan Zhou. The Emperor said last year that he planned to move the capital, but it has already been over a year yet there has not been even a sound. On the contrary, it is the people underneath us that have become poorer and more anxious.¡±


    ¡°Previously, the move was because of the tension from the war. Later, the imperial army was able to withstand the attack on Cang Huang Mountain. Recently, didn¡¯t they also achieve a victory?¡± Ruan Zhu thought of the words Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had spoken during the time when Yun Shi Wei had returned from Lan Zhou and divulged towards her younger sister: ¡°I believe sooner or later, the capital will move to Lan Zhou.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Sister, how do you know this? Did Brother-in-law say it?¡±


    Per the customs of Tian Chu, secondary husbands did not have the qualifications to be respected by members of the maternal family and titles such as ¡®son-in-law¡¯ and ¡®brother-in-law¡¯ could be ignored. But as Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was a prince, he was an exception.


    ¡°I am guessing. Do not mention this to anyone or you may rouse panic.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Sister, relax. Your sister is not one who flaps their mouth.¡±


    Ruan Zhu remembered Madam Ruan and asked: ¡°When Maternal Grandfather visited, did he bring up Mother? How is she currently after leaving with her family?¡±


    Ruan Yu was dispirited: ¡°After Mother was kicked out by Maternal Grandfather, she led her concubines and concubine-born children to a poor alley in the east of the city where she rented a residence for them to stay in. They have never returned to Maternal Grandfather¡¯s place and I do not know how they are currently?¡±


    From the other¡¯s expression, Ruan Zhu could see she had a guilty conscience: ¡°You have gone to look for Mother before, correct?¡±


    Ruan Yu was silent for a moment: ¡°I took Lian Xi to the poor alley but did not see Mother. They said Mother was working outside and several of the concubine-Fathers were also doing the same. Since the day Mother brought Second Concubine-Father back, he has continuously been ill and relies on medicine every day. Not long before, Wei Jia became a bedwarmer of a wealthy family. I do not know what Ruan Ju is doing, but all of her husbands are trouble. Not long after staying together with Mother, they stole all of Mother¡¯s silver and also all of her jewelry. After Mother found out, she was so infuriated, she drove them all out¡­¡­¡±


    Madam Ruan was actually still unyielding. After fighting with Ruan Zi Xu so that they were both in a stubborn stalemate, she would actually prefer doing hard physical labor than willingly return to the Ruan clan.


    Ruan Zhu was thinking¨CIf it was the real Ruan Zhu who was faced with this situation, what would she do? Since she was using this body, shouldn¡¯t she shoulder some of this body¡¯s duty?


    ¡°I feel that the Ruan residence has become more peaceful with those secondary husbands and concubine-born children not present, but it is not good for us to not care about our Mother. Wait a few more days, okay? Yu¡¯er, listen to big sister. For all of these years, Mother has not had to worry about clothes and food while in the Ruan clan and has lived too superficially, to the extent that she no longer understands what is the most precious and the most beautiful. When she understands, one day, just how unrealistic and ridiculous the illusory emotion that she has continuously and stubbornly chased after is, she will return to the Ruan clan.¡±


    ¡°Do we currently not need to send over some silver?¡± Ruan Yu widened her eyes.


    ¡°Mother being able to work outside is a good thing, and us sending silver over will destroy her current positive mental state. Money can save people, but it is also the best at corrupting a person¡¯s heart. Mother previously was corrupted by silver. Since she has just started to show a bit light, you should not scatter it.¡±


    Ruan Yu made a melancholy ¡®en¡¯ in response. It could be considered her agreement.


    Two days later was the Winter Solstice Festival, and neither of her two husbands were home. Yun Shi Wei had finally integrated with his comrades in the barracks, and they were all now bros. At dawn, he had tasked some of the resident¡¯s servants to fill several carriages with delicious food as he was going to celebrate the holiday with everyone in the barracks.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had gone to the palace to participate in the banquet. There was not only him¨Che had also taken little Zhi Xi along.


    Originally, the Emperor¡¯s decree had also ordered Ruan Zhu to participate, but she was currently at the most important period of her pregnancy, so how could Xuanyuan Zong Zhi be willing to have her run around? If by chance the fetuses were harmed, he would become unspeakably angry. Not only could she not carelessly run around, she couldn¡¯t even do it in her own home; but, her room was all right as there were two imperial bodyguards stationed at all times at the entrance to the passage leading to her room.


    After Ruan Zhu had circled the flower garden a few times, she felt unwell from the continuous stares of the two imperial bodyguards. It was rather like she was a prisoner. The idea and the stares made her depressed and she then rarely went out. In any case, it was too cold outside and there was Nuan Chun to help her walk around the living room.


    Near the end of the year, Yun Shi Yi sent Yun Shan to bring quite a lot of things from Lan Zhou, with the majority of it being cloud brocade from Jiang Nan. Ruan Zhu had previously created a set of jewelry from Ming Xiang Cui Yu, and Yun Shi Yi had used that as a guideline to order two more sets, then carefully selected a few unique pieces and delivered it all in several successive cases.


    The large carriage was full of glittering gems and objects, and when they arrived, it caused Ruan Zhu¡¯s room to become entirely packed with goods.


    Ruan Zhu held the ornaments that Yun Shi Yi had bought for her and suddenly burst into brilliant laughter. The pieces she created at that time had long become a type of trend and been promoted by Ming Xiang Cui Yu as their signature item. She could even purchase them at the Ming Xiang Cui Yu branch in the capital; there was no need to send them on such a long journey.


    But in the end, this was a piece of her hubby¡¯s kind regard. Holding them in her hands, her heart and mind were cosy.


    She selected the important pieces to leave behind and had servants take the rest over to Ruan Yu. Handling it like this was convenient as it was nearly the end of the year and presents must be handed out. Seeing as she was nearly about to give birth and did not have much energy, she might as well let Ruan Yu handle it!


    As for matters of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence, ever since Steward Chen had been beaten to death, it had been handled by Nangong Xun. This person was an outstanding financial manager¨Conce something had passed through his hands, they were soon placed in order. This person was talented in both civil and military matters, handsome, confident and at ease. However, it is said that if the man is good, the pitiable part is that he did not have a good-tempered wife.


    At the end of this previous autumn, Nangong Xun had married. The bride¡¯s family was also of a military origin, and were looking for a principal husband. The bride had been brought up as a boy and her martial arts were not inferior to that of her husband¡¯s. When the husband and wife were free, they frequently fought to compare notes and Nangong Xun was often badly battered.


    So pitiful! Ruan Zhu offered sympathetic tears. However, she really liked Nangong Xun¡¯s wife. Her temper was straightforward, she did not put on artificial airs, and she also had a bit of a man¡¯s air.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, Madam Nangong has come to see Eldest Miss.¡± Qu Gao and He Gua had been taken to the palace as well to look after Zhi Xi. Xing Yun and Liu Shui were standing in front of the door and one of them opened the door a crack and announced through the opening.


    Nuan Chun supported Ruan Zhu as they walked out of the bathroom. Being pregnant with twins, her body was incredibly heavy and required someone to help her with each step. Her two husbands were not home so this one bedwarmer undertook all the responsibilities and her body had long been seen by him. Ai, according to this era¡¯s customs, the one who suffered was clearly not her.


    ¡°Invite her in.¡±


    Madam Nangong¡¯s maiden name was Dong; Dong Fang Hua. She was an extraordinary beauty and her face and figure were both top-notch. After wedding Nangong Xun, she had always protected herself against pregnancy, and up until now, there were no signs of her being with child. Using her words, she would first inspect this man. If he cleared the inspection, she would then birth children for him. If he did not pass, they would separate and she would remarry.


    Ruan Zhu leaned against the lounge chair, and Nuan Chun placed the brazier next to her feet. Boiling some tea on the stove, he poured a cup each for his master and the guest.


    The method of stir-frying tea was not too complicated and soon spread throughout the capital. Many people were now manufacturing it, and currently, they had sprung up all over the place and were much better than the ones that Zhao Hai had cooked up.


    Dong Fang Hua respectfully offered a present. Nuan Chun received it and handed it to his master.


    Ruan Zhu opened the present and immensely liked it. This Dong Fang Hua knew that she would not necessarily be moved by presents of gold and silver and other valuables. Inside the case was a pair of decorated eggshell porcelain bowls from the Ru kiln that with a light tap, chimed melodiously. If this were to be appraised in the future, how much money would this be? It would be enough to buy a villa in the most expensive districts of a major metropolis.


    Ruan Zhu was so happy her brows curved and she called for Nuan Qing to bring over a bottle of chen jie cai lu that Yun Shan had brought over from Lan Zhou to give to Dong Fang Hua. Yun Shi Yi had heard from a servant who had come to deliver a letter to Lan Zhou that his wife had been seriously ill at one point and fortunately had survived by depending on chen jie cai lu. He had then spent an exorbitant amount to buy a great deal of bottles from the Tian Ning Buddhist Temple and sent them to the capital.


    Ruan Zhu could not use up that many bottles and gave out a few as gifts, and in a moment, chen jie cai lu became very famous within the capital and was hailed by the nobles as a miracle medicine.


    After Dong Fang Hua had taken a seat, she chatted: ¡°His Highness had previously mentioned that Zhao Hai is one of the Crown Prince¡¯s most famous advisers and many of the Crown Prince¡¯s matters are decided by him. He has sent word to Nangong for me to seduce this man. I am still amazed¨Cto my surprise, I actually chanced upon Zhao Hai while shopping yesterday. After throwing two glances his way, unexpectedly that man just really took the bait.¡±


    She had gone shopping to select items for the festival and there just so happened to be a crippled man who was protected by an entire squadron of imperial bodyguards entering a porcelain store. Listening to their conversation let her know the identity of the crippled man, and she started being seductive after curiosity spurred her on. Though it was only a few looks, it had actually caused half of Zhao Hai¡¯s body to go limp.


    Ruan Zhu inwardly laughed. Out of the men of the twenty-first century, there was not a single one that was not lewd. After riding the transmigration train to the ancient era, he was precisely searching for the optimal ¡®three wives and four concubines¡¯ dream. Although the customs of Tian Chu were a little unreasonable, how could it restrain the mind of the stallion male?


    ¡°Since you have not hesitated to commit, it is best that you play hard to get. Make it so Zhao Hai cannot have what makes his heart itch so. It is best to appear where there are large crowds to manufacture public opinion. Oh right, Zhao Hai must not know who you are. It would be dangerous if they were to know your background, so you must protect yourself well. Do not go to your home either and take a few extra attendants that know martial arts with you. His Highness will also secretly send some experts to protect you. After Zhao Hai¡¯s reputation has thoroughly been tarnished, His Highness will find a few people of good morals and reputation to ¡®catch¡¯ the two of you in the act. However, at that time, you do not need to personally appear. His Highness has said he will find anither to pretend to be you in the room and wait for Zhao Hai to take the bait.¡±


    Ruan Zhu gave a sinister smile. After the two had been caught in the act, the stark naked Zhao Hai would be paraded through the streets and as he had thrown aside the Crown Prince¡¯s face, the latter wouldn¡¯t even have the courage to come out and defend him.


    Dong Fang Hua laughed: ¡°Why go to the trouble of finding someone else? I do good deeds to the end. It is merely keeping watch in the bedroom for him to take the bait and would be a pity if such an interesting thing was not done neatly.¡±

 Chapter 78

    Ruan Zhu had Dong Fang Hua stay for a meal and the two started to chat about daily life when Xing Yun came in to report that His Highness, the Prince of Yong, had come to pay a visit.


    While Ruan Zhu was mulling over who His Highness, the Prince of Yong, was, the door was pushed open, and a tall, handsomely bright man swaggered inside the living room of Yi Xin Residence.


    Seeing that His Highness, the Prince of Yong, had entered unsolicited, Xing Yun was worried the Princess would become angry and was so scared his face became white.


    Ruan Zhu was just about to scold which family¡¯s wild child had no manners when she looked and saw Xuanyuan Min Zhi. She knit her brows. It was time to celebrate a major holiday so what was this Prince doing, not going to the palace to attend the banquet and instead coming up with the idea of coming to the Ruan residence?


    Dong Fang Hua saw that a guest had arrived for the Princess and stood up to take her leave.


    Ruan Zhu sent Xing Yun out and also had servants prepare two bolts of Jiang Nan cloud brocade for the Nangong family as gifts.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi did not regard himself one bit as a stranger and took the Ruan residence as his personal courtyard in being all casual and doing whatever he pleased. Picking up the teapot, he poured himself a cup before crossing his legs in the taishi chair and slowly sipping his tea.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, don¡¯t busy yourself. The Prince of Yong is not an outsider and it¡¯s nothing for him to drink cold tea. Isn¡¯t that correct, Your Highness, the Prince of Yong?¡± Ruan Zhu saw that Nuan Chun was about to boil more water to steep some tea and blocked him verbally: ¡°In any case, when His Highness fled from Nan Ling, he had even eaten the weeds on Mount Lian. Drinking a few sips of cold tea is inconsequential.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi gulped down a mouthful, the corner of his mouth hooking into a perfect curve: ¡°The Princess of Qi is truly stingy to not even be willing to receive an old friend who has dropped by for a visit with a cup of hot tea.¡±


    ¡°The palace is currently hosting a feast with all kinds of delicacies that will certainly stir your appetite. Is there meaning in running over to my ordinary and humble home to drink tea?¡± Ruan Zhu slightly lifted her two graceful brows as she looked over at the tall and straight man opposite her, a trace of deliberation in her eyes.


    Reportedly, the Prince of Yong was finally able to meet with the Emperor through Empress Dowager Zheng. However, the honorable Emperor, perhaps as a result of being consistently busy with government affairs, had long had absolutely no impression of this Prince of Yong that he had sent out as a child. He had to think for a very long time before he remembered that such a person existed. The Emperor was someone who did not like to offend anyone and on the spot, assigned him a princely residence, bestowed him land, servants, silver, silk, foodstuffs¡­¡­In accordance with the standards of a prince, all that should be given was given, with the exception of an official position. After all, he had not grow up by his side and how one treated someone they were close with versus someone they were distant with was naturally different.//were not close at all.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi lazily reclined against the back of the chair. His eyes were dark and difficult to understand as he placed the empty cup back on the table: ¡°Eating the things in the palace make my teeth hurt and is inferior to the comfort found here. I have yet to eat, hmm? Have the kitchen prepare some delicious food and send them over. It¡¯s a major holiday and there should be a bit of a celebratory air.¡±


    Just like a prince, this person has drifted along so pathetically! Ruan Zhu¡¯s shapely eyebrows curved: ¡°Nuan Chun, go call for someone to bring in the evening meal that the kitchen has already prepared, then go to the cellar and bring back a bottle of bamboo-leaf green liquor to entertain the Prince of Yong with.¡±


    The Prince of Qi was not home and none of the servants of the princely residence dared to slight their Princess in the least. Delicious delicacies were packed on top of the table and the aromas swirled around the room. Ruan Zhu had a servant also invite her second sister to come join in the meal, but the reply she received said Ruan Yu had met Dong Fang Hua. As birds of a feather, they had became fast bosom friends and her sister had pulled the other out for a stroll.


    They were the ones who were truly women of this era. No matter how close she was with them, in the end, they were still different! Ruan Zhu¡¯s expression was complicated and there was a little hint of dejection in her eyes.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi drove away the palace eunuch that was pouring wine and personally filled the cup to the brim before downing it: ¡°That hits the spot! It is still the wine in your residence that is the most satisfying. After staying so long in the princely Yong residence, it felt rather like squatting in prison. Fuck, it¡¯s even more terrible than squatting in prison. It¡¯s just a big tomb.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s pair of bright eyes were thoughtful as it seemed the respected Prince in front of her was filled with melancholy.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi had been kicked to a strange country when he was small and had to face an enormous amount of people who wanted his life. The way he lived must have been out of his expectations, right? Although there was the old Duke as his shield, a single person could not save the situation. Having narrowly escaped death, Xuanyuan Min Zhi finally returned to his motherland but was not accepted by either the Emperor or his Empress-Mother who had birthed him. Presumably, it must be incredibly upsetting and hard to take in.


    Nuan Chun placed a little bit of every dish in front of his master into her bowl. His eyes wer gentle as he took pleasure in doing these things. ¡°Eldest Miss, please eat a little. It will be good for the child.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were like a clear blue wave and she handed the bowl filled with food over to Nuan Chun: ¡°Head over to the heated room and eat this. I am not particularly hungry.¡± They poured this and that soup down her throat every day, so how could she have the chance to be hungry? Besides, the fetuses also need to lose some weight. If they were too big, they would become hard to deliver.


    One can eat, but it must be done nutritiously, and eating too much was not necessarily a good thing.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, I¡­¡­I am not hungry¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Today is the Winter Solstice, a major festival. Do not go against my order; do as you are told and go eat.¡± Ruan Zhu handed over a pair of chopsticks.


    ¡°Thanking Eldest Miss.¡± Nuan Chun could only take the proffered items and silently walked into the heated room.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was also not eating and continued to down cup after cup of wine. Resenting the wine cup for being too small, he exchanged it for a bowl and in a flash, an entire bottle of bamboo-leaf green liquor had been finished by him. After he had poured the very last drop of wine, he turned towards Ruan Zhu: ¡°I¡¯m not satisfied. Bring another bottle.¡±


    Ruan Zhu did not like drunk men: ¡°You have already said I am stingy so why on earth would I give you more liquor? If you want to drink, that¡¯s fine¨Creturn to your princely Yong residence and satisfy your appetite there.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi grabbed a tofu skin bun filled with lamb and threw it into his mouth: ¡°Ten days ago, I came across your younger sister¡­¡­¡±


    ¶¹¸¯Æ¤°ü×Ó | Tofu skin bun


    Was meeting Ruan Yu very strange? I run into her every day! But who would have thought that as Ruan Zhu continued listening, it wasn¡¯t like that at all.


    ¡°She was fooling around with a male customer in front of a restaurant on An Hua Street and had been seen by the man¡¯s wife, who rushed over, gave her several times and kicked her quite a few times. I was about to head over and give her a beating with my whip but at that moment, her several husbands ran over and stole the few silvers she had just received. Truly karma. Her husbands kicked and beat her while cursing her for being a chicken that is unable to lay eggs¡­¡­¡±


    So it was actually Ruan Ju. What ¡®unable to lay eggs¡¯? Don¡¯t tell me after the miscarriage last time, she became sterile?


    ¡°The grand Third Miss of the Ruan clan had been reduced to being worse than a beggar. After her husbands left, her face bloomed under my whip and her nose was lost.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi used an indifferent tone but his face was cold. At the time he had been bought by Ruan Ju from Aunt Sun, his poison injury had not yet healed and he had been tormented half to death by her. Now that he had a noble status, how could he not demand a return? He, Xuanyuan Min Zhi, was certainly not a good man. Who the hell cares if it was an elderly or a female that offended him¨Cthe result was that it was hard for them to even wish for death.


    Ruan Ju had inherited the characteristics of her biological father, Wei Rong, and naturally had a fawning manner with a superb appearance. If there was the slightest blemish on the beauty, perhaps it was better to die than to live. Ruan Zhu felt a little disturbed: ¡°You might as well kill her.¡±


    ¡°How much of a pity would that be? She will continue to live, live to the point where she is spurned by all those around her.¡± Disdain was on Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s face and the corner of his mouth hooked into a cold sneer: ¡°That time, weren¡¯t you also nearly killed by her? Isn¡¯t this just false kindness?¡±


    ¡°That time I nearly died because of her was all thanks to you.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi declined to comment and his face remained as frigid as before: ¡°From today on, Ruan Ju has an appearance tantamount to a devil¡¯s. I will see how she continues to live?¡±


    Ruan Zhu remained silent and remembered that he had previously sustained a very heavy injury when he was escaping from Shun Tian Hall¡¯s prison with her. Fighting with the jailers had caused his injuries to intensify and although later there was Imperial Physician Zhang¡¯s careful treatment, it could not cure him. ¡°Your poison injury is all healed by now, right?¡±


    ¡°After I ate all of the snow lotus from Mount Tian that Emperor-Father bestowed, I¡¯m pretty much cured.¡±


    ¡°Are those assassins still causing trouble for you?¡±


    ¡°Your family¡¯s number three led some people and killed quite a few of them and the ones remaining were constantly under danger and misfortune.¡±


    ¡®Your family¡¯s number three¡¯? Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¨Cwhen did her third husband receive the appellation of ¡®the other man¡¯? Forget it, this xiao san was not the same as the other xiao san, so there¡¯s no reason to twist them up.[a]


    Nuan Chun finished eating and stepped out of the heated room, continuing to serve his master in the meal.


    ¡°Niangniang!¡± Xing Yun entered to report: ¡°Outside the gate, there is a girl with a very frightening appearance claiming to be niangniang¡®s younger sister and saying something about how she also wants to enter the residence. But that person clearly is not Second Miss. This slave asked Steward Yang and Lian Xi to identify the person and they said she was the Third Miss who had left home previously and allowed this slave to ask for niangniang¡®s opinion?¡±


    Third Miss, Ruan Ju?


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s brows lifted: ¡°Have Steward Yang give her ten taels of silver and then send her off!¡± After having transmigrated for this long, her heart had gradually become cold. She had gone through so many experiences that her previous compassion and gentleness had subsequently been whittled away quite a bit.


    After a while, a reply came from below, saying the female outside refused to leave and asking if niangniang would like for them to inform the yamen for them to take her to prison.


    ¡°Truly annoying. I¡¯ll go send her off.¡±


    Without even taking his woolen cloak, Xuanyuan Min Zhi grabbed his sword and left Yi Xin Residence.


    Ruan Zhu was afraid he would kill someone in his anger. No matter how wicked Ruan Ju was, she was still of the same blood. If she were to die at the entrance to her home, it would become words that were easy to say but hard to hear and a topic for the neighbors to gossip about.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, support me outside for a look.¡±


    Nuan Chun brought over a fox fur cloak and had Ruan Zhu properly wear it before supporting her and pushing the door for them to leave¡­¡­The two imperial bodyguards had received the news and came out of their respective rooms, carrying swords as they accompanied the pair. They had yet to walk out of Yi Xin Residence when they could distantly hear pounding against the gate along with a series of shrill screams:


    ¡°Open the gate, open the gate. This is my home, I am also surnamed Ruan, I am a person of the Ruan clan. All of you dog slaves actually dare to lock the Third Miss of the Ruan clan outside. In a little while, I¡¯ll break all of you dogs!¡±


    Outside the door came an extremely crude male voice shouting curses: ¡°You said before this was your Pa¡¯s house but you cheated us, you hen who can¡¯t lay eggs, you ugly person who ain¡¯t useful at all. I toldja to earn some silver but you can¡¯t even do that so what was the point in letting you eat? I shoulda just kicked you to death.¡±


    Ruan Ju cried: ¡°Don¡¯t hit me, help me pound the door. When we have broken through the door, my Pa can then come out and see me.¡±


    A round of even fiercer slamming sounded out and the two vermilion gates seemed as if they were about to break when Xuanyuan Min Zhi had men lift up the door bolt.


    Ruan Ju¡¯s several husbands ruthlessly charged inside when suddenly, a bright, cold ray of light from a longsword horizontally slashed before their eyes. The eldest youth yelped in alarm: ¡°This is my father-in-law¡¯s home, what are ya trying to do?¡±


    Ruan Zhu felt extreme hatred towards their use of the the phrase ¡®father-in-law¡¯ and deemed it as if they had profaned Ruan Zi Xu. Seeing Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s blade striking downwards, she couldn¡¯t resist shouting: ¡°Do not kill in front of my home. If you want to kill, go outside. Do not dirty the doorstep with bloodstains.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi sheathed his sword and lifted his leg to aim a kick over at the wretched eldest youth¡¯s stomach. Amidst the sound of breaking bone, the eldest brother¡¯s body flew outside the gate and past the steps, where he laid flat on the ground, motionless. His several brothers ran over to pull at him, only to realize their eldest brother had already been kicked to the bucket. His sternum had collapsed, exposing a corner of his heart. With a touch of a hand, they discovered that he was actually no longer breathing.


    The several brothers became so scared they lost their heads and started shouting: Murder! The Ruan clan has killed someone!


    The night was dark. Ruan Zhu was a distance away and could not see the scene outside but that trace of blood wafted inside the courtyard, causing her to be dizzy for a spell.


    Those several brothers wildly charged inside the Ruan residence and caused an uproar: ¡°Eldest Brother was killed by them and a murder must be paid with a life. Hurry and give us money or we¡¯ll report ya to the yamen.¡±


    ¡°First, grab that young wife and force them to give us money.¡±


    ¡°Get five hundred taels, no¡­¡­a thousand taels¡­¡­¡±


    The imperial bodyguards of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence heard there was trouble and stepped out with their swords before encircling Ruan Ju¡¯s husbands and starting a scene of blows and kicks.


    Seeing this array of men, Ruan Ju¡¯s husbands were stunned silly with fright. They had only heard that the Ruan clan was one of merchants. Since that was the case, how could a mere merchant be able to produce this sort of scene?


    A luxurious carriage galloped along the street with an entire squadron of imperial bodyguards on horses following behind. The carriage stopped before the residence¡¯s gates. From the carriage stepped out man with a grave and cold face and in his arms was a fast-asleep small toddler.


    ¡°Nangong, send the troublemakers to Da Jue Mountain.¡±


    ¡°Understood, Your Highness.¡±


    The one who arrived was precisely Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, who hadn¡¯t expected there would actually be people who dared caused a commotion at the entrance of his home when he had only been gone for half a day. Handing over the sleeping Zhi Xi over to Qu Gao, he stepped inside the courtyard and pulled his wife into his arms before horizontally lifting her up and striding towards Yi Xin Residence. He instructed He Gua while he moved: ¡°Quickly bring Imperial Physician Zhang over. Delays are not allowed.¡±


    Entering the bedroom, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi placed his wife on the bed and saw that her complexion was pale. His heart jumped into his throat: ¡°Wife, are you all right? Is there anywhere that is uncomfortable?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was only able to recover from that extreme dizziness after a spell: ¡°I just can¡¯t bear the smell of blood and am much better now.¡±


    [a] Again, this is a pun based on СÈý which in modern terms, refers to a mistress or the other woman.

 Chapter 79

    Glossary


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes were brimming tenderness as he gazed at his wife and she bore the full brunt of his affection and distress: ¡°You and the children are the most important people in this world to me. There may not be the slightest mistake and in the future, you must absolutely protect yourself well.¡±


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, you are also my most important person.¡±


    This was the first time Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had heard his wife express her love, and he was incredibly moved from contentment and joy. Though he had a thousand words he wanted to say, he couldn¡¯t even spit out half of one and only dazedly stared at her.


    The door to the room opened and Yun Shi Wei rushed in with a face full of fear: ¡°Spouse, when I returned from the barracks, I heard some people had come to make trouble. Are you all right?¡±


    ¡°With everyone present, how could something have happened to me?¡± There were two males in the room and also Yun Shi Yi who was in the distant Lan Zhou¨CHow privileged she was to be so dearly loved by all of these outstanding men.


    Yun Shi Wei saw his wife smiling sweetly and released his breath.


    The next day, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi sent someone to the palace to hand the old Emperor a memorial requesting a long vacation so he could accompany his wife at home until she had given birth. During this idle period, he visited Hua Nong Ying Glass Workshop to supervise the manufacturing process and also headed to Tian Wang Embassy to oversee its construction.


    In accordance to Ruan Zhu¡¯s idea, Yun Shi Wei established a special force and devoted all of his energy on training. However, in the days leading up to his wife¡¯s expected delivery date, he tried to find as much time as possible to stay at home and accompany her.


    Following the new year, on the evening of the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, Ruan Zhu gave birth to twins of mixed sex. It only took two sichen from the start of contractions to the end of delivery, and the entire process went very smoothly.


    After going through the previous difficult labor, this time, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had prepared very thoroughly. Imperial Physician Zhang and Wet Nurse Li had prematurely been invited over and had already stayed in the residence for several days, enjoying their good food and drinks.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, Yun Shi Wei and Ruan Yu had anxiously waited in the outer room. Along with the wails of an infant in the delivery room¨Cthe elder brother arrived first and ten minutes later, the little sister also entered the world.


    When the midwife yelled out: ¡°A boy and a girl; a pair of mixed twins,¡± all of the ones waiting outside became jubilant.


    ¡°So it really was twins of mixed sex.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was over the moon. His taut nerves that had been stretched thin over these several days finally obtained relief, and he impatiently entered the delivery room. Face beaming with joy, he took his son from Wet Nurse Li, then after a while, placed him down and picked up his daughter. Looking at the child¡¯s rosy and small face, he was so happy, his mouth couldn¡¯t even close: ¡°Baby, quickly say ¡®Pa,¡¯ I am your Pa.¡±


    It¡¯d be a wonder if such a small baby could understand him! It seemed that no matter how extraordinary a man was, he would still have a childish side. Ruan Zhu¡¯s strength had all been used up after delivering the children. Too lazy to pay attention to him, she fell asleep.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi placed particular importance on these two children and was the embodiment of a father showing off his pride and joy. He insisted on personally naming them. When Ruan Zhu had given birth to Zhi Xi, the naming privilege had been stolen by Father Ruan, and he was absolutely unwilling to let that happen this time.


    The young couple had come up with over a dozen names while they had been waiting and right when it was time to make the final decision¡­¡­An imperial edict arrived from the palace¨Cthe children¡¯s paternal grandfather had come to join in the fun, naming the boy Xuanyuan Bo Yu and the girl Xuanyuan Bo Ya.


    As Ruan Zhu was in confinement, she could not accept the imperial decree and waited in the room for her husband to bring over the edict for her to see. Once she did, she became incredibly angry. They had already agreed to give the son to the Ruan clan so why on earth did the Emperor come to meddle?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that his wife¡¯s expression was not good: ¡°Don¡¯t be angry. If worst comes to worst, I will yield the privilege of thinking of their pet names to you.¡± Actually, the two people had argued over several days on the topic of naming their children and the dispute had caused them both to be red in the face as neither of them were willing to yield to the other. In the end, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi conceded as he could not win over his wife, and Ruan Zhu had promised to let him come up with their pet names.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who said for me to think of the pet names~ What would be good to call them, hmm?¡± Ruan Zhu saw that the matter had been concluded and could only compromise. After thinking for a good while, her eyes became shiny: ¡°Our son will be called Jack and our daughter will be Alice. How about that? Doesn¡¯t it sound nice?¡± ¡¶Alice in Wonderland¡·was her favorite movie and it must be said that the little girl was extremely cute.


    After giving birth, a woman would inevitably be beside oneself with joy and would also not be concerned with whether or not a name was regarded as appalling or shocking in the current era. During the time when Zhi Xi was being named, she had come up with a whole bunch of pet names, such that she¡¯d call him this today, called him that tomorrow, and finally made it so that no one knew what name the child should or should not be called. Thus, they all simply called him by his formal name.


    This was what and what? Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was flabbergasted. How could his precious children be called such strange names? If others knew, wouldn¡¯t they laugh themselves to death?[a] He hummed and hawed: ¡°Might it be possible for me to take back the privilege?¡±


    ¡°Not possible.¡± Ruan Zhu was solemn: ¡°Since my manly husband has spoken, it is like a white dye stained black and one may not renege.¡±


    In other matters, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi could reach a compromise with his wife, but this time, he was a hundred percent insistent. No matter what she said, he would not consent to giving his children such peculiar names. He himself refused to call them with those names and also instructed others to do the same.


    On the topic of picking a pet name for her nephew, Ruan Yu firmly stood on the side of her brother-in-law, and the result was that Ruan Zhu alone called the children by their pet names, angering her so much that she refused to speak to her husband for a good several days. In actuality, she only wanted to play around for a bit. If she were to truly give her children such shocking pet names, she would really need to think it over.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi found two wet nurses for his children that were the wives of some of his subordinate imperial bodyguards with very clean backgrounds. The twins received proper care, leaving Ruan Zhu completely idle. However, as a qualified mother, she spent the majority of her time with them everyday as she was absolutely not willing for them to become close to their wet nurses and completely forget about her, their mother, after she had painstakingly given birth to them.


    On the fifteenth day of the second lunar month, the twins turned one month old. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi arranged a huge banquet and invited members of the court to celebrate. It was one of those banquets that lasted three days and guests could come and go as they pleased. Even the beggars on the streets basked in the light and were provided with steamed buns, copper coins, and clothes in turn.


    The old Emperor in the palace sent an envoy to deliver many gold and silver jewels and other related items. The head of the palace eunuch grasped the imperial edict and read out in his high-pitched voice: By the Mandate of Heaven, the Emperor hereby decrees¡­¡­and so on and so forth. The general meaning was that the son could inherit his father¡¯s position and title in the future, but the daughter should also have a title and has now been bestowed the title of ¡®county princess.¡¯


    Ruan Zhu did not care too much about these so-called titles as they were merely things to give one face. In the future, the children would still need to rely on their own ability to earn money. However, having something was better than nothing and she followed her husband in offering her thanks for the grace.


    When Yun Shi Yi received the news that his wife had given birth to a pair of mixed twins, he sent over two large carriages of gifts. As an individual, Yun Shi Wei did not have much of property or assets and used the salary he had acquired as an official to buy a pair of golden locks engraved with a qilin[b] from a jewelry store as gifts for the twins.


    The weather warmed. The twins had the wet nurses looking after them and little Zhi Xi stuck next to Xuanyuan Zong Zhi every day calling to ¡®wide horsey.¡¯ Ruan Zhu had gained a reputation in the social circles of the capital and was frequently invited by Madams of government officials to parties. This could be counted as her having experienced the enthusiastic and intoxicating extravagant lifestyle of the upper class.


    On this day, she arrived at Princess Long Yuan¡¯s residence as a guest. This Princess was the Emperor¡¯s biological little sister and based on the family hierarchy, was Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s paternal aunt. This year, she was forty-some years of age. The several husbands by her side had all passed away one after the other from illness and her children had long moved out and settled down elsewhere. Because she had a reputation of bring bad luck on her husbands, no other man dared to enter her residence as a concubine. The Princess also did not want to accept anyone and lived unfettered by herself. When she had nothing to do, she would invite some ladies from the imperial court to get together for some fun.


    Ruan Zhu was fond of this easygoing elder Princess. After she arrived, she saw that the other was currently playing mahjong with several court madams.


    Speaking of mahjong, there is a little bit of history here. It had reportedly originated from the Crown Prince¡¯s residence. One of the Crown Prince¡¯s aides had studied it from who knows where and the game had then slipped its way inside the Empress¡¯s palace. Not long after, mahjong became popular among the aristocracy in the capital.


    Princess Long Yuan saw that the wife of her nephew had arrived and pulled her over to replace a lady who had just so happened to require the lavatory at that time.


    Since knowing about Zhao Hai, Ruan Zhu had become extremely cautious and did not dare expose a single iota of the superiority of a modern person. Although the matters that she understood were not few, but she had been a hardworking and good child in her past life. Don¡¯t mention playing mahjong, she didn¡¯t even recognize the majority of the symbols on the mahjong tiles. After playing a few rounds, the silver on her body had completely disappeared as well as her hairpins and earrings. Even her gorgeous cloud brocade jacket embroidered with tree peonies had been taken off and used as her bet.


    The mahjong circle was a picture of merriment and Princess Long Yuan roared with laughter. Ruan Zhu had already crossed over for a long time and was no longer as stingy as before. She happily lost and paternal aunt Long Yuan also happily won.


    The womenfolk enthusiastically played mahjong while drinking tea, but the originally cheerful event changed in atmosphere after the arrival of the Prince of Dai.


    Who was the Prince of Dai? He was precisely Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s biological father. The current Emperor could not have children and the ones at the knee were all the secondary husbands¡¯ offspring. This Prince of Dai was the Empress¡¯s third husband and he was a concubine like his son.


    Why did the elder xiao san and the younger xiao san not look like father and child? Though the elder xiao san¡®s appearance was attractive, he did not have the younger xiao san¡®s brightly handsome elegance or the graceful bearing of a responsible general.


    The Prince of Dai¡¯s birth status could be considered noble, and one did not know if the Emperor was guarding against him or what, but before and after the Prince of Dai became a concubine of the Empress, he did not have many accomplishments. He had painted a sign for Hong Lu Temple but then remained a leisurely prince and that was it.


    ¡°This young one greets the Prince of Dai.¡± After all, this was the first time they had met, so even if the other party¡¯s rank was lower than hers by a level, he was still a noble Prince and a member of the Xuanyuan clan. Ruan Zhu kneeled down to formally pay her respects.


    The Prince of Dai had no intention of letting her rise at all. Walking to the side with a cold face to take a seat, he drank the tea that a servant carried over and his eyes did not even glance her way.


    Ruan Zhu remembered that the Empress completely hated Zong Zhi for having a background in a brothel. The Prince of Dai had probably also been influenced by this, right? But what did this person raise his temper against her for? In any case, her status was still one of a Prince¡¯s imperial Princess while the Prince of Dai was only a county prince. She had saluted him because he was Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s blood relative and him putting on airs towards her simply lacked common sense.


    Ruan Zhu looked towards Princess Long Yuan, but the other was also very helpless. It was not false that Princess Long Yuan liked Ruan Zhu, but the former did not express any willingness to step into this muddy water.


    Perhaps the Prince of Dai was a second Wei Rong! Ruan Zhu silently cursed and stood up.


    ¡°Which family¡¯s wild child is the Princess of Qi part of to not even be taught any manners!¡± Disgust was on the Prince of Dai¡¯s face. One of his attendants that had followed him in immediately remarked: ¡°This one has heard that the Princess of Qi is from a merchant family who had fled from Yu Zhou to the capital.¡±


    The Prince of Dai coldly snorted: ¡°I was just saying how she seemed to not know any etiquette. It turns out it¡¯s just a boorish and ignorant merchant clan.¡±


    Ruan Zhu became enraged and her eyes turned cold. There was no trace of fear in her voice; it was only clear and bright: ¡°What sort of words is the Prince of Dai saying? This young one has been educated quite well. Kneeling to the Heavens and to the earth; kneeling towards one¡¯s parents; kneeling towards His Majesty¨Call of these rules this young one understands very clearly.¡± The implication was¨Ckneeling to you was honoring you; do not misunderstand others¡¯ kindness.


    The Prince of Dai was so angry his eyes blazed: ¡°Audacious!¡±


    Ruan Zhu coolly stared at him and indifferently said a sentence: ¡°If this one has offended, may County Prince accord a punishment.¡± The meaning among these words was¨Cyour status is inadequate to find fault with me.


    In a feudal society with rigid social ranks, her words were not without reason. The Prince of Dai was the Empress¡¯s secondary husband and did not have any true power whatsoever. In terms of familial hierarchy, the Prince of Dai was higher than her, but in terms of nobility, she surpassed him.


    ¡°Truly a feral, uneducated girl. If this prince continues staying, there will be **.[c] Princess Long Yuan, this prince will take his leave.¡±


    When the Prince of Dai had passed by Princess Long Yuan¡¯s residence today, he had heard the people at the gate discussing the Princess of Qi¡¯s arrival and had entertained the thought of coming over to embarrass her. He had never considered the other party was someone he could not push around. There was no longer any meaning in staying, thus, with an ashen face, he left the princess¡¯s residence with his attendant.


    Princess Long Yuan gave Ruan Zhu an explanation: ¡°There are some things you do not know. The Prince of Dai previously had his heart set on marrying the daughter of Prime Minister Wang Bo En to Zong Zhi and had suggested it to His Majesty the year before last. But Zong Zhi was completely opposed to the idea, causing the Prince of Dai to lose considerable face which is why he has this opinion of you.¡±


    How could it be just the reason of his face having been lost? She was afraid her family background was also a cause. The imperial family paid particular attention to political marriages and the daughter-in-law in his eyes could not bring him the slightest advantage. If he could criticize her, then he would criticize her, and he would absolutely not let her live comfortably in the future.


    Ruan Zhu exited Princess Long Yuan¡¯s residence and rode in the carriage as it followed Zhu Que Street back towards the Ruan residence. The weather had gradually warmed and all the curtains were open, causing her to inadvertently see Dong Fang Hua and a crippled man holding hands while walking along the street and entering a luxurious inn.


    A group of ordinary customers entered immediately after them. Among them were several people Ruan Zhu recognized as imperial bodyguards of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence.


    Could it be they were preparing to catch the couple in the act?


    Ruan Zhu called for the coachman to stop the carriage by the street then lowered the curtains so that barely a slit was visible and peeked outside. After a moment, she saw a very beautiful girl in red clothes being led by a young man to the inn.


    That youngster seemed a little familiar. She thought for a moment¨Cwasn¡¯t that Wei Jia? She remembered that Ruan Yu had said he had become a wealthy family¡¯s bedwarmer. Don¡¯t tell her the master was this red-clothed female?


    Being a bedwarmer did not necessarily mean one had high status. One was just a servant, but because a bedwarmer would wait upon their master at all times, their status was a little higher than that of an average servant, that¡¯s all.


    ¡°Madam, this slave saw Master sneakily enter this inn with a woman. They have long had a relationship and many people know of this.¡±


    The lady in red¡¯s face was full of ire: ¡°Very good, Zhao Hai, to be lame in one leg and to dare lose your virtue and conduct such a shameless thing. Which part of I, this precious daughter of the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall, fails to fit an ugly person like you? I must smash him into a pulp.¡±


    Actually, Zhao Hai was not at all ugly. His father, Fifth Concubine-Father Zhao, could have a passionate love affair when he was young, so how ugly could his son be?


    [a] In Chinese, the names Jack and Alice are translated using phonetics so Jack = ji¨¦ k¨¨ (½Ü¿Ë) and Alice = ¨¤i l¨¬ s¨© (°®ÀöË¿). These phonetic names also do not make any sense in terms of meaning (like if one was to literally translate each character), which is why XZZ is so against it.


    [b] Reference to Dream of a Red Chamber, where the two main characters each had locks that signified they were meant to be as their respective locks had lines that completed the others¡¯. Image example of some locks and an artistic presentation of a qilin.


    [c] The raws I¡¯m using censored this and there¡¯s not enough context clues for me to know what the original word is, so feel free to substitute in your choice.

 Chapter 80

    Ruan Zhu watched as the magistrate¡¯s daughter walked into the inn with Wei Jia, her heart itching terribly. If she did not personally go witness such an interesting affair with her own eyes after running across it, she would regret it at night in her dreams. ¡°Nuan Chun, wait in the carriage while I go take a look.¡±


    Nuan Chun showed his disapproval: ¡°Eldest Miss, forgive this slave for speaking out of turn, but going to the inn may bring danger upon Eldest Miss.¡± He did not know the details but could tell just by looking that an unusual event was going to take place.


    ¡°You also saw it¨Csome of the imperial bodyguards from our residence are inside. Behind the carriage are also the shadows that His Higness sent. What can an insignificant Zhao Hai do to me?¡±


    Ruan Zhu gave an embarrassed smile and reached out to pat him on the shoulder. Ever since he had been allowed to enter the bedroom to attend to her, he had energetically started to strengthen his body. During this time, muscles had formed and he was now quite sturdy.


    ¡°This slaves wishes to follow Eldest Miss.¡± Insistence was all over Nuan Chun¡¯s face. If there was any danger, he would stake his life to protect her.


    ¡°Follow if you wish!¡± Ruan Zhu deflated.


    See¨Cone could not treat servants too kindly as now they even refuse to listen to their master¡¯s words! There were still advantages to a strict feudal social hierarchy.


    Pushing the carriage door aside, she stepped out and gave a backwards glance. The two imperial bodyguards that Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had assigned to protect her were following behind at a distance that was not far.


    She pretended as if she hadn¡¯t seen them and made to enter the inn with Nuan Chun.


    Who could have imagined that before she had even reached the entrance, she would be shocked to a halt by a peal of laughter in the street.


    Ruan Zhu turned her head yet saw the dashing figure of her husband Xuanyuan Zong Zhi atop a tall Malaysian horse holding a small child in his arms. Behind him was Nangong Xun and an entire squadron of imperial bodyguards, forming a distinctive array on the bustling street.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi dismounted and little Zhi Xi sweetly called out:


    ¡°Ma, hug, hug¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, why did you also bring Zhi Xi here?¡± Ruan Zhu withdrew from the entrance of the inn and took her son into her arms. Perhaps because his father was not present, Zhi Xi was very fond of and clung tightly to Xuanyuan Zong Zhi. He clearly should call Xuanyuan Zong Zhi ¡®Third Father¡¯ yet the little guy stubbornly always left out the first word. If Yun Shi Yi were to know his own son favored an outsider instead of him, how depressed would he be?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi loved Zhi Xi dearly and also even frequently brought him along to the training grounds when he was drilling soldiers. Using his words¨Cif one had a strong and courageous hero for a father, the son would indeed become and general in the future, and everything must start from a young age.


    Start, my butt! At that time, she had replied such. Zhi Xi in the future would inherit the Yun clan¡¯s businesses and would be a businessman.


    ¡°I brought him out to play. Children must come out and see the world; how many prospects could he possibly have from always staying in the residence?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s face was full of righteousness: ¡°I still have not asked you yet, hmm? What did you run here for without any rhyme or reason? If you were to meet with danger, what would you do?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you here?¡± Ruan Zhu gave him an embarrassed smile, then tried to curry favor: ¡°I just knew this kind of matter could not do without your honorable presence.¡±


    ¡°I will settle this with you when we return.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi indicated towards a hidden sentry disguised as a peddler. That person had continuously been begging in front of the inn¡¯s entrance in tattered clothing with a completely wretched appearance. If he hadn¡¯t come over to give his greetings with a respectful expression, Ruan Zhu would have never guessed he was her husband¡¯s subordinate.


    ¡°Reporting to Prince, Zhao Hai had already entered for a quarter of an hour and it has also been a while since the magistrate¡¯s daughter entered with a servant in tow.¡±


    ¡°What about the matter assigned to you all?¡±


    ¡°Responding to Prince, us brothers have secretly notified several scholarly elders. They are all waiting inside for the start of the show.¡±


    ¡°Wife!¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi turned his head and dotingly said towards Ruan Zhu: ¡°Wait outside for us.¡±


    How could that be OK? How boring this happy occasion be if she was absent!


    Ruan Zhu coaxed her son with a flattering smile: ¡°Zhi Xi, be good, and go inside the carriage with Uncle Nuan Chun to play. Ma still has something to do and will make you a cake tonight with a candle in it.¡±


    Her cooking skills were no good. On Zhi Xi¡¯s birthday, she had attempted over a dozen times before finally succeeding with great difficulty in making a birthday cake. But because she was afraid that Zhao Hai would find out if the news were to be spread outside, she had never made it again. Who knew why Zhi Xi, the little brat, invested so much of his memory on good food, but after he had tasted it once, he kept it in mind.


    ¡°Ma, sneaky.¡± Zhi Xi scolded and scraped her nose.[a]


    Ruan Zhu was embarrassed: ¡°Not this time.¡± She had indeed been shameless multiple times before, but after today, she would never go back on her words with her son again. That¡¯s because after this day was over, her most formidable enemy in this era would inevitably meet his end.


    Ruan Zhu handed her son over to Nuan Chun and let them wait inside the carriage. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi did not feel it was safe and assigned ten imperial bodyguards to guard them.


    This inn was extremely grand and wide. The first floor was a hall primarily for guests to eat and drink in while the second floor held the rooms. The entire inn was richly ornamented with beautiful decorations at the same standard as a major hotel in her previous world.


    As it was currently time for the noon meal, the inside of the inn was packed with guests. Among them were no lack of high officials and other noble persons and there were many who, as soon as they saw Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, took the initiative to offer a greeting.


    The most he did was slightly nod his head in return and there were a few that he ignored completely. Together with his wife, he directly headed for the second floor.


    Ruan Zhu, of course, wanted to personally see the outcome because this was her scheme that she had gone over with Dong Fang Hua as early as a month prior. It was best to give Zhao Hai a harsh outcome¨Chave him go through this one situation so that it would be hard for him to then flip his fortune around.


    For a man of Tian Chu, chastity was as serious as one¡¯s life. Once a man bore the terrible reputation of being shameless towards a woman, his entire future would be ruined and he would even be inferior to a beggar on the streets. As such, even the bold and arrogant Mister Peacock, Liu Fei Xu, secretly carried out his flower thief activities and did not dare to expose the slightest hint of the cat in the bag.


    Ruan Zhu had directed Dong Fang Hua like this: ¡°It is best to make this large-scale and have him become a household name. As the victim, the more miserable you can make yourself, the more sympathy we can garner. Let me teach you some methods¡­¡­¡± She taught her some of the BDSM practices she had seen before on the internet.


    ¡°Do I truly need to act like that? This will accomplish the task?¡± Confusion was in Dong Fang Hua¡¯s eyes: ¡°Even if I am willing, will Zhao Hai want to? Don¡¯t tell me his brain is abnormal? Besides, is doing that fun?¡±


    Such a pure child of this generation that has never seen the methods of a modern person. Don¡¯t sweat about the little things she had taught her, and don¡¯t mention things between humans on humans as even all other genera¡­¡­have been ooxx¡¯d before. But, this was rare in her country of China. Meanwhile, in a certain neighboring small country separated by the sea¨Cthat was truly what one would call a dazzling place glittering with magnificence.


    The corners of her mouth were a little strange: ¡°Who told you to tie yourself up? You can ask Zhao Hai to help you, ah. It¡¯ll definitely be what he¡¯s been looking for.¡±


    ¡°It will really work?¡±


    ¡°Just do it.¡±


    In the end, the conversation had ended with confusion remaining in Dong Fang Hua¡¯s eyes. But why did she not understand that if she asked Zhao Hai to tie her up, the other would surely agree?


    Entering a room on the second floor, Zhao Hai completely stripped himself. Except for being lame in one leg, this fellow still had quite a humanly appearance, being tall and thin. Although he did not have the muscles of a martial artist, he also did not have much visible fat. His eyes squinted from happiness as he cheerfully hugged Dong Fang Hua and stretched out a hand to untie her clothing.


    Dong Fang Hua feigned shyness, but this was all taught by Ruan Zhu. She was a naturally frank and straightforward woman and didn¡¯t normally adopt the bashfulness of a a woman that stayed in her boudoir; thus, she had practiced alone in front of a mirror for quite a while.


    She saw that Zhao Hai was not behaved and she sent a push over: ¡°Sweetheart, there¡¯s not even the slightest mood that¡¯s been set. One prefers something special.¡±


    The Zhao Hai from his past life had always dragged his disabled leg around and had never been liked by a female before. But this did not mean that he did not know what ¡®special¡¯ meant as he had seen quite a few Japanese clips: ¡°Hee hee, Beauty, if you want to be special, do not hesitate. Elder Brother guarantees you will be delighted.¡±


    Dong Fang Hua held back her dislike and got up from his body, coquettishly saying a few of the strange moves that Ruan Zhu had taught her. After she had finished, she then gazed towards Zhao Hai: ¡°Just like that. En, I¡¯ve heard that it¡¯s very thrilling.¡±


    She held doubts in her heart about whether the Princess of Qi was abnormal or not. How could there be people who played like this?


    Zhao Hai smiled exultantly and was so excited he stood up straight. So it turned out the women here were even better at playing: ¡°So Beauty still had this kind of preference. You have truly thrown yourself into Older Brother¡¯s hands.¡±


    Wildflowers were much more fragrant than the flowers at home. The tigress in his home often came to blows with him and was also affectionate with other men in his presence. This was¡­¡­.never mind, in any case, he was also not that fond of that shrew. But the most hateful thing was that she would actually hurl abuse at and mock him in front of the servants. She had never called him ¡®Lord Husband,¡¯ and only the words ¡®crippled man¡¯ hung from her lips, so if one were to ask him not to hate, how difficult would that be?


    If it weren¡¯t for being able to climb up by having a relationship with that slut, he would have long dismembered her and thrown her into a river to feed the fish.


    Ever since he had known Dong Fang Hua, he had retrieved a man¡¯s dignity. Such a cute and sweet beauty was in his arms and mind and this made half of his bones become limp.


    Zhao Hai had become fanatically distracted by the beauty before his eyes and did not suspect her. Tying up Dong Fang Hua, he used a towel to block her mouth¡­¡­bang bang¨Csuddenly, sounds of pounding on the door sounded out.


    ¡°Motherfucker. Who is it? Who¡¯s courting disaster?¡± Zhao Hai cursed.


    He did not feel nervous at all as he believed that this was a normal relationship between a man and a woman based on mutual consent. For what reason could Xiang Shao Long and his son, Xiang Si Long, be able to cross into the Qin dynasty, hold a beauty with both arms, have three wives and four concubines, and marry a whole bunch of princesses and talented maidens, while he, another transmigrator, could not exceed the bounds a single step?


    The Heavens had allowed him to cross over into this world, so this was precisely giving him the right to enjoy and live the happy fate of a man from Qi[b]; otherwise, what would be the meaning in transmigrating?


    Zhao Hai wrapped a bed sheet around himself and went to open the door. Standing outside the entrance was precisely the honored daughter of Shun Tian Hall¡¯s magistrate.


    With a sweep of her eyes, the magistrate¡¯s daughter understood her husband¡¯s scandal. Immediately becoming so angry that flames shot out of her eyes, she resolutely walked towards Zhao Hai to kick and trample him while curses rained from her mouth: ¡°You shameless and vulgar bastard, this aunt might as well smash you to pieces today, you trouble-making thing!¡±


    As soon as Zhao Hai saw that it was his own family¡¯s broad, he became apprehensive and forgot to dodge when he saw her raising her leg. He was too late to block her kick against his family jewels and the kick was successful. In addition, the magistrate daughter was currently full of rage and had used all of her strength.


    Zhao Hai wretchedly howled in pain as he crumpled on the ground, face-up, while both his hands cupped his lower half and his body twitched incessantly.


    How could the magistrate¡¯s daughter care that much? Advancing a few steps forward, she continued to violently kick him over and over.


    People outside had heard unusual sounds of activity in this room and came over, one after the other, to see a woman tied on the bed with a miserable expression while her clothing was in disarray. On the ground was an entirely naked man who was being beaten beyond recognition. There was no need for anyone to make inquiries as the scene before their eyes explained what was going on.


    At this time, a few men led by Nangong Xun burst into the room. As soon as he rushed in, he mournfully cried out: ¡°Wife, this husband has finally found you. Yesterday, this husband heard you had been abducted, and this husband could not find you anywhere. Unexpectedly, you had been snatched by this beast.¡±


    After Dong Fang Hua had been untied from the bed by her husband, she threw herself into his arms and burst into tears. While sobbing, she recounted what happened: ¡°I didn¡¯t want to come with him here but he forced me with his strength. He had said that if I didn¡¯t immediately go with him, he would kill me. I was so scared¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°This beast actually dared to do such a disgusting thing that offends Heaven and reason. Wife, this husband will surely demand justice for you.¡±


    The hallway was packed with bystanders who were here to enjoy the scene and they stretched their heads inside to continue looking. One spread to ten; ten spread to one hundred; the entire tavern quickly became aware of the story. In walked several scholarly elders. When they saw Zhao Hai was being beaten half to death, they called for someone to restrain the magistrate¡¯s daughter.


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter saw Dong Fang Hua and her two eyes burned with rage: ¡°You blind hussy dared to touch my man. If I don¡¯t tear you to shreds today, this aunt will crawl outside.¡± Saying this, she rushed forward.


    Dong Fan Hua was currently acting and could not reveal her martial arts skill. But how could Nangong Xun allow someone to bully his wife? Waving an arm, he swept the magistrate¡¯s daughter aside.


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter had never been subjected to something like this before and sat on the ground, loudly wailing: ¡°I won¡¯t live anymore. You damned good-for-nothing cripple dared to turn your back on your wife and steal someone, doing this sort of shameless thing. You blind evil creature, dogs have more dignity than you.¡±


    As a servant, Wei Jia did not dare to hit his own family¡¯s Master, but seeing his Madam sitting on the ground while bawling, he stepped forward to support her. The magistrate¡¯s daughter was currently in a rage, unable to distinguish between black and white and gave him a resounding slap. The slapped Wei Jia dared to become angry but did not dare to speak. Burning with rage inside, he lowered his head as he could not make a sound.


    The several scholarly elders had been invited over to drink some tea and had never expected to see such a scene that they thought was simply too outrageous. After they had discussed it among themselves for a moment, they called for someone to drag Zhao Hai into the streets to publicly expose him and to serve as a reminder for the common people to abide by the laws.


    There was no need for an objection. Several men stepped forth from the crowd and removed a door before lifting the half-dead Zhao Hai onto it and out of the inn.


    An endless stream of horses and carriages made their way through the broad Zhu Que main street that was over a hundred meters wide, sharing the road with people hurrying to and fro. Adults led children; commoners conducted business with goods on poles that they balanced on their shoulders; there were traveling merchants from various regions; large groups of carriages and carts¡­¡­Even though it was currently wartime, caravans still gathered.


    Precisely on this large and lively main street, a group of people paraded over. The one in front hit a gong and beat on a drum, declaring news had just occurred within these city walls.


    Such-and-such man, surnamed Zhao and given name Hai; a hooligan by nature and indecent. Had used an incapacitating agent on a young girl in an attempt at vulgarity, but his plot unexpectedly fell through and was exposed when they were found by the female¡¯s husband.


    Afterwards, the person who spoke pointed towards a raised door in the back and loudly shouted: If you wish to know who this evil person is, it is precisely the man atop the door plank.


    Commoners crowded on both sides of the street to watch, gesticulating towards the source of shame as they also picked up rocks, twigs, and other objects, throwing them at Zhao Hai. The injuries that he had received from the magistrate¡¯s daughter were already not light, so with the onslaught from the commoners, he quickly became badly bruised and blood flowed freely.


    Within the crowd, Ruan Zhu felt unspeakably relaxed. Since the day Steward Wang had been killed, her heart had continuously been suspended with worry and she could now finally release that pent up breath. The stone at her chest had disappeared and she no longer needed to tuck her tail between her legs.


    The public condemnation became even more intense.


    Very quickly, some people disclosed that Zhao Hai was the son-in-law of the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall. As a result, everyone lifted up Zhao Hai and marched towards his father-in-law¡¯s residence.


    At the entrance to Shun Tian Hall yamen, the doorway became as busy as a marketplace as it became packed full of commoners¨Cthose who were here to watch a good show and those who wished for the Lord Magistrate to come out and stand for justice. But the gate of the yamen remained tightly shut. The magistrate could not toss aside this person and hid in the rear courtyard as if he was deaf. Not long after, once again, it was disclosed that Zhao Hai was one of the Crown Prince¡¯s aides.


    Some people took advantage of the confusion and heckled that the Crown Prince indulged in his aides being shameless and drugging and raping innocent women.


    The magistrate that was hiding in his rear courtyard received a letter that the Crown Prince had sent via an envoy, saying for him to do official business according to official principles.


    That same evening, the Zhao Hai who only had one breath remaining was tossed inside Shun Tian Hall¡¯s prison.


    Had the curtains dropped because the matter had been satisfactorily settled? Not yet! With each day that Zhao Hai did not die, Ruan Zhu could not be at peace; Xuanyuan Zong Zhi could also not be at peace. Ruan Zhu was afraid her secret would be exposed; Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was afraid this formidable opponent would become his largest resistance.


    The day had yet to brighten when a group of people, under Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s prompting, congregated in front of the entrance of Shun Tian Hall, expressing their opinions and theories. Among them was no lack of a few women that were here to join in on the fun.


    Inside the prison, Ruan Zhu was accompanied by Nuan Chun as she passed through the corridors. This was the second time she had come to the prison of Shun Tian Hall. The first time was to the female prison and this time was to the male prison.


    She wanted to verify one thing.


    The stench of rot crammed into her nostrils, and both sides of the fences were crammed with pairs of starving eyes.


    In a prison cell in the corner, Zhao Hai was sprawled on his back. His face was like gold paper[c] and his eyes were lifeless. The physical pain from his injuries no longer affected him and his entire body seemed to be in a state of numbness while his brain seemed to have stopped in his puzzlement.


    He did not understand. Why did the Heavens let him cross over yet did not allow him to enjoy the material benefits of a transmigrator?


    No, he was the transmigrated male lead and the Heavens surely must be testing him. When the Heavens drop great responsibilities onto people, they must first suffer before their will will strengthen, have them toil their muscles and bones, expose his stomach to hunger¡­¡­[d]


    ¡°Qin Hai Dong!¡±


    Ruan Zhu coldly called out this name. In the past world, the reason why this person was also surnamed Qin was because her father had needed a son. He had thus abandoned her mother, married a new woman, and that woman¡¯s son had followed in taking his surname.


    All men wanted sons. Even if they were not biological sons, they would still surpass their biological children.


    Zhao Hai trembled and raised his cloudy eyes to look over: ¡°Who¡­¡­Who are you?¡±


    [a] The author used a play on the slang ¡°ÐßƤ¹ÎÁ³¡± which translates to ¡®shamefully shave (one¡¯s) face.¡¯ The meaning is¨Cif someone says or does something wrong or stupid, the other person would use their finger to scrape their nose or face to humiliate/make fun of the one who did wrong. This is only done with people that one is comparatively close to.


    [b] ÆëÈËÖ®¸£, idiom translated literally above that has an unspoken part of ¡®¡­man from Qi (who had a wife and a concubine)¡¯ so pretty much, enjoy a fate of having a harem


    [c] Face like gold paper = face that is yellow, either from being angry or from being sick


    [d] Lines from ÉúÓÚÓÇ»¼£¬ËÀÓÚ°²ÀÖ (Life springs from sorrow and and calamity, death comes from ease and pleasure). This is a super famous philosophical debate between Mencius and Gao Zi on human nature.

 Chapter 81

    Ruan Zhu coldly looked towards the man she extremely loathed that was in her vision. Passing over a silver banknote to the jailer, she asked for a sealed area where she could speak to Zhao Hai.


    Having received a silver banknote, the jailer fawningly obliged. In a short while, Zhao Hai was trussed up and led into a cell where the jailer tied him to the chair as he was afraid the prisoner would not behave.


    Ruan Zhu waited for the jailer to leave before instructing Nuan Chun to walk a little distance away and closed the door securely.


    The prison was quite strict and she was not worried about being overheard by others.


    ¡°There is no reason for you to know who I am. You also do not deserve it.¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were like frigid water as she stared at the crippled man several meters away from her, the corner of her mouth twisting with disdain: ¡°I have come to tell you that you are finished and it won¡¯t be long before your vulgar thoughts, along with your filthy flesh, will soon become nourishment for the plains outside the city.¡±


    Zhao Hai had been tied to the chair and was unable to move a step. He glared at her with wide eyes: ¡°I got it¨Cyou¡¯re the transmigrator who had been secretly helping the Prince of Qi. Manufacturing glass, establishing a spy agency, and even helping Yun Shi Wei set up special forces. It¡¯s you. You¡¯re the one who¡¯s been helping in the dark.¡±


    Everything that he knew regarding the Prince of Qi came from the Crown Prince. Zhao Hai had been under the impression that in the country of Tian Chu, Steward Wang of Lu Yin Ge had been the only transmigrator. Unexpectedly, not long after he had disposed of him, another one sprouted up. But he could not find the other, even after he had utilized all of the strength and men in his hands to investigate.


    ¡°Unfortunately, you found out too late.¡± Contempt brimmed in Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes.


    Zhao Hai struggled like he wanted to jump up from the chair, but since he used so much strength, the person along with the chair both fell onto the ground. He had fallen so that his entire face became bloody and he turned his head: ¡°Why did you only appear now and what have you done to me before? I¡¯ve fallen into such tragedy but you haven¡¯t, so what tricks have you played?!¡±


    An ice-cold smile formed on Ruan Zhu¡¯s lips, like a blossoming poppy: ¡°I directed your fate. You can only blame yourself. Your fault¨Ccrossing into the wrong era.¡±


    A female-dominated society was unsuitable for the existence of a stallion man, whose delusion was to hold a beauty in his left arm while embracing another with his right and whose ending would be even more tragic.


    Zhao Hai¡¯s despairing and apathetic eyes suddenly turned a bloody red, similar to the ones of a starving wolf, as he fiercely glared at the luxuriously dressed woman. His entire heart coursed with a hatred that could not be put into words and he only repeated a sentence: ¡°I will kill you, I will surely kill you¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°I am completely clear on all of your wicked thoughts. For your own selfish desire, you killed the innocent Steward Wang. It would be an anomaly if you were a good person. However you should also not be so resentful¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu indifferently pursed her lips and lightly threw out some words: ¡°With two transmigrators, it¡¯s enough for there to only be one that knows the advanced technology of the future; the second person is unnecessary.¡°


    ¡°You saw it.¡± Zhao Hai¡¯s eyes widened. She had seen him killing Steward Wang. All of a sudden, he deeply regretted he had not noticed there was another person present. If he had, he would have surely eliminated the hidden danger.


    ¡°Qin Hai Dong, the grudges between us were predestined from the past life, and the Heavens allowed me to transmigrate to Tian Chu for the purpose of exacting revenge. You have absolutely not been treated unjustly as everything was all because of the sins of you and your mother. You are guilty, and the punishment is just.¡±


    A cold and raw voice, like pearls and jade falling onto the ground, without any hint of the speaker¡¯s mood.


    In their past life, Qin Hai Dong¡¯s mother had robbed Ruan Zhu¡¯s mother of someone she cherished, resulting in the latter becoming ill and dying an early death. Ruan Zhu had a lonely and bitter childhood and only survived because of her relatives¡¯ help, but after entering college, she refused to accept charity any longer. She worked while attending classes and had originally believed she could pass her days tranquilly. But the influence of the mother and son pair lingered and against all reason, they came to trouble her. Since they were unsuccessful in forcing her into marriage, they kidnapped her and threw her into their car, where she died tragically from the collapsed overpass while they were still on the road.


    All of tragedy that befell her was bestowed by the Qin Hai Dong mother and son duo, so how could she not return it all?


    ¡°Qin Zhu!¡± Zhao Hai spat out a name as his complexion turned ashen in a split second.


    Confronted with an old enemy, Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were as chilly as a knife: ¡°Your father-in-law, the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall, has already issued an order for you to ride the wooden donkey early tomorrow morning and parade through the streets. Qin Hai Dong, the fruits of today are all because of the actions of yesterday. If it were not for your mother being completely crazy and ridiculous, causing my family to be bankrupt and the people dead,[a] how could today exist?¡±


    Zhao Hai became extremely scared and he yelled: ¡°Don¡¯t make me ride the wooden donkey, don¡¯t¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu snorted: ¡°Do you have any other alternative?¡±


    ¡®Riding a wooden donkey¡¯ was not something aimed at any particular person; it was one type of criminal punishment directed towards men that had committed ** crimes. At noon today, the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall had sent down an order, sentencing his son-in-law to ride the wooden donkey, parade through the streets, and be the object of public criticism.


    Zhao Hai went crazy: ¡°I won¡¯t compromise. I won¡¯t let you have an easy time. I¡¯ll tell them all you¡¯re unclean and have stooped over for evil spirits. I will tell everyone¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you still have any opportunity?¡± Ruan Zhu took out a handkerchief from within her sleeve. Moving forwards while gently shaking it, she then immediately held her breath.


    White smoke drifted out of the handkerchief. When Zhao Hai smelled it, his eyes rolled back and his body flopped backwards as he fainted.


    Ruan Zhu waited until the incapacitating agent¡¯s effectiveness had disappeared before walking towards him: ¡°It¡¯s not over yet, hmm!¡±


    Inside the handkerchief was a knockout drug that would cause someone to rapidly sink into sleep after they had smelled it. She had requested Imperial Physician Zhang to make it, and because the drug was hard to come by, she could only ask him to make a very small amount; however, it was sufficient to deal with Zhao Hai. Yet, this was not enough. She could not leave the root untouched.


    From her sleeve, Ruan Zhu took out another drug that was also made by Imperial Physician Zhang. This one was a muting agent and also burned the victim¡¯s vocal cords.


    Pushing back her disgust towards Zhao Hai, she pried open his mouth and slipped the mute drug inside¡­¡­


    Done with this, she then took out a clean handkerchief and wiped her hands before slowly getting up. Her expression a sheet of ice, she pushed aside the sturdy door, and left¡­¡­A perfect smile emerged on her face.


    From today on, Zhao Hai could no longer cause her any harm.


    Ruan Zhu found Nuan Chun and led him down the long, long corridor to leave the prison of Shun Tian Hall.


    She believed her secret would never be known by anyone else, but she was wrong.


    At this time, in a room adjacent to the one that Zhao Hai was currently being held captive, a noble man pushed the door aside, and with a turn of his body, entered Zhao Hai¡¯s cell.


    The man who had had the mute drug poured down his throat had woken at who-knows-what time and the jailer was currently undoing his fastens, planning to take him away from the prison. Zhao Hai was currently under extreme pain. Pushing aside the jailer, he stretched his finger inside his mouth¨C¡°eh eh¡­¡­¡± Bloodcurdling shrieks continuously sounded and his finger forcefully slid across his throat as he desperately tried to find the source of fire inside and pull it out. It was as if he did not even see the lofty figure that had entered.


    ¡°How painful is this, ah! Ze ze¡­¡­Would you like me to help you dispose of the pain?¡± The noble man seemed to say this out of pity but his eyes were frosty.


    Zhou Hai could not speak, but after he heard the other¡¯s words, he hastily kowtowed before the noble man.


    ¡°Open your mouth for me to have a look.¡± The man lazily spoke.


    Zhao Hai was in so much pain his mouth basically couldn¡¯t close. After he heard the other, he opened his mouth wide for the other to see¡­¡­yet saw the noble man raise an arm, letting a sharp sword fly. The tip of the sword pierced inside Zhao Hai¡¯s mouth and a cold light flashed¡­¡­


    Hiss!


    Zhao Hai¡¯s tongue flew out from its base in his mouth and blood immediately gushed out.


    With a swipe of the man¡¯s eyes, the sword flashed again, and the jailer collapsed on the ground with a clear hole in his chest over where his heart was.


    The noble man sheathed his sword. Never giving the two another glance, he turned and strolled out of the prison while his sword-like eyebrows lightly lifted and a leisurely and content arc formed at his mouth as he whistled a clear and lively tune. He insipidly murmured: ¡°The Eldest Miss of the Ruan clan, it won¡¯t do to be softhearted.¡±


    [a] ¼ÒÆÆÈËÍö, idiom meaning destitute and homeless; ruined and orphaned

 Chapter 82

    Glossary


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    Ruan Zhu placed the twins on the bed and one at a time, personally nursed them. Though there wasn¡¯t enough milk for them to drink, it was still better than nothing and was also able to nurture their relationship.


    The rich ancient families had a multitude of children and because the mothers were pampered and frail, wet nurses had to be hired after a child was born. After a long time, the dependence the child felt towards their wet nurse would exceed what they feel towards their mother. Ruan Zhu absolutely would not allow that scenario to happen. Watching the little mouths incessantly sucking, her heart was packed full of blessed happiness. Her husbands were all more capable than one other and also treated her well. Nowadays, her children were all sound and her sole regret was that Yun Shi Yi was not by her side. If she could return to Lan Zhou a little earlier, then all would be good.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi stepped inside the bedroom and saw this precise warm scene. Striding over to the head of the bed, he picked up the children and pressed kisses upon them for a while before calling for their wet nurses to come in and take care of them.


    He led his wife to the study: ¡°Zhao Hai was paraded through the streets yesterday on the wooden donkey and finally died atop it when evening approached. His corpse has been pulled outside the city for burial.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had heard the servants discussing this, and it could be considered the true removal of the stone that had continuously been suspended in her heart and thoughts. Via the Internet in her past life, she has seen some information regarding the punishment of riding a wooden donkey. It was extremely inhuman and could be described as cruel and merciless. She had not gone to the streets to see the noise and liveliness as she was precisely unwilling to look at that sort of spectacle.


    ¡°There is one thing that is very strange. When Zhao Hai was being lifted out of prison by the bailiffs, they unexpectedly discovered he had no tongue.¡±


    ¡°No tongue? Why, don¡¯t tell me it was cut off by someone?¡± She had only made him mute.


    ¡°Who cares who cut it off. The most important thing is that Zhao Hai, that man, has now completely disappeared from our sight and we can now be free of worries.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was sitting atop the taishi chair. With a pull of his arm, he perched his wife atop his leg and pressed a long kiss against her red mouth. Thinking it wasn¡¯t satisfying enough, he tore open her lapel and fondled the lovely soft mounds inside. Unexpectedly, a little milk dribbled out. His heart squeezed while his eyes darkened,and he couldn¡¯t help but to bury his head and suck.


    Ruan Zhu had been teased until she was very much enamored, but they were only separated from the wet nurses and their children through a door, and it would not be good if they were to hear the sounds of them doing it. Restraining her physical desire, she pushed aside his head and straightened her lapel.


    ¡°What?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was very unhappy.


    ¡°That¡­¡­there is something I am very worried about.¡± In order to divert his attention, Ruan Zhu told him about how she had met the Prince of Dai yesterday at Princess Long Yuan¡¯s residence. ¡°The Prince of Dai is the Empress¡¯s secondary husband and I¡¯ve heard that he is also quite favored. Look, doesn¡¯t this mean that I have even offended the Empress?¡±


    ¡°The Empress is not the biggest authority in the entire harem so what are you so worried about?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi lazily responded: ¡°Is not the old Empress Dowager still there? The elder¡¯s impression of you is not bad, hmm?¡±


    ¡°That is true.¡±


    After coming once to the Ruan residence, Empress Dowager Zheng became addicted and would run over every few days. Using her words, the palace was ¡®damned stuffy¡¯ and the Ruan residence was filled with spirit. The elder was really troublesome and Ruan Zhu frequently had to coax her children into doing some tricks to try and please her.


    ¡°The Empress Dowager is the master of the inner palace. When she is angered, her dragon-headed cane will swing and even Emperor-Father will suffer terribly. That¡¯s why ah, my beloved wife, you only need to nicely curry favor with the Empress Dowager as that will guarantee you a smooth journey in the future.¡±


    Ruan Zhu teased: ¡°The way I see it, how can the Empress Dowager be the only lord in the inner palace? All of you Xuanyuan clan members are super domineering. We¡¯ve already agreed to give this time¡¯s son to the Ruan clan and we haven¡¯t even waited for my Pa to return from Mongolia when the paternal grandfather first sent down an imperial decree and snatched away the rights.¡±


    Many times, Ruan Zhu would unconsciously blurt out some phrases and vocabulary from her previous life.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had heard her slip-ups many times and was able to remain calm in the face of the unexpected. From the beginning to now, it had been one of her distinct charms that had so deeply attracted him, like it had brewed for a long time, and the longer it aged, the richer and more mellow her charms became.


    ¡°Ever since Emperor-Father became aware that I had secretly married a wife and even lowered myself into a concubine position, he sent men to investigate you. In the beginning, he was very opposed as he had wanted to wed the prime minister¡¯s daughter to me. But the daughter of the prime minister is arrogant and impertinent, and just like Empress-Mother, disdains me for having stayed in a brothel before. How could I possibly be able to stand that kind of temper?¡±


    ¡°It has been hard for you.¡± Ruan Zhu hugged him and silently transmitted over her love.


    ¡°For Zong Zhi to be able to have Ruan Zhu accompanying me for a lifetime, this life is also worth it.¡± Warmth trickled into Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s heart and he spoke again after a while: ¡°Emperor-Father genuinely approved of our marriage after you had improved the military weapons. He was in disbelief that a woman in her boudoir was actually a rare genius.¡±


    ¡°How am I a genius?¡±


    ¡°Emperor-Father¡¯s and Empress-Mother¡¯s marriage is not particularly successful, therefore Emperor-Father hopes I can be happy.¡±


    ¡°His Majesty treats you very well, ah!¡±


    ¡°I have said before that he has highly valued me ever since I was a child.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s face was dark and gloomy. If he hadn¡¯t suffered from Third Brother Min Zhi¡¯s persecution in childhood, causing everyone to believe he had burned to death within that large fire, perhaps the position of Crown Prince would have been precisely his.


    Ruan Zhu was also thinking of this and asked him in a quiet voice: ¡°Do you want to sit in that chair?¡± If he wanted to sit there, she would do her best to help him.


    ¡°My biggest desire is to be with you and the children forever.¡±


    After he met her, thoughts of striving for the position of heir had weakened. It was lonely at the top and sitting on that chair at the peak was not necessarily easily done. Emperor-Father could be considered a diligent emperor, but a rebellion still occurred at the southern border, natural disasters and ** ravaged the country, and civilians were displaced.


    ¡°But you have such a sensitive status; even if you do not intend to compete, the others can also not just let you off, right!¡±


    The fighting within an imperial clan was very bitter. If one was successful, one was called a king; if one was defeated, one was called a bandit, and losing often meant the ruin of their entire household. It was such that even after Li Shi Mi, that sort of golden monarch, had seized the title of Emperor, he still removed the trouble behind him and cleanly eradicated all of the children at Jiang Chen¡¯s and Yuan Ji¡¯s knees.[a]


    ¡°Your husband is not so useless that I am not able to protect my wife and children. Although the Crown Prince is powerful, it is not to the point where I cannot deal with him.¡±


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, I trust in your ability. Ai, I just feel as if I have offended the Prince of Dai and my heart does not feel well. After all, he is a close relative of yours.¡±


    ¡°In my heart, the only close relatives of mine are you and the children.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes were full of deep emotion. He had been bitterly lonely when young, and after returning to the imperial clan, had been beset by constant war. Empress-Mother turned her back on him, and his biological father saw him as a chess piece, so to him, how luxurious and precious was familial love?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi enfolded his wife¡¯s hand and slightly squeezed. He didn¡¯t know how many more of these intimate days¨Cwhere nothing could come between them¨Cexisted as after they journeyed to Lan Zhou, there would be an additional Yun Shi Yi by her side. ¡°Wife, make some advance preparations as the Emperor intends to move the capital to Lan Zhou before the rainy season arrives.¡±


    ¡°This sudden?¡± Ruan Zhu was surprised.


    ¡°It is not sudden¨Cmany different kinds of goods have already been moved to Lan Zhou as early as last year. Actually, it is not considered moving the capital; it is merely changing their city of residence.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s words were not without reason as Lan Zhou was the Great Ancestor¡¯s birthplace, and the imperial palace and offices were all readily available. There would inevitably be emperors in successive generations who stayed in Lan Zhou for several years, and some even up to several decades, which is why Lan Zhou could be described as a capital.


    ¡°I worry the children are too small and are unable to endure the hard bumps of the journey.¡±


    ¡°I will arrange everything properly and have Imperial Physician Zhang be there to look after them at any time. Be at ease. The weather has warmed again and nothing will happen.¡±


    ¡°Are we taking a carriage or traveling by ship?¡± Traveling by ship would be much better for a destination that was so distant, right! There would be no need to stop to rest in inns, or if they were forced to stop for the night in a mountainous area and it rained, things would become even more problematic.


    ¡°Naturally by ship. That way, it will not be too terribly difficult and will also be better for you and the children.¡±


    ¡°En.¡± Ruan Zhu thought about how she could soon see Yun Shi Yi and two spots of light unconsciously revealed themselves on her cheeks. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that she was happy and his mood immediately brightened. He only wanted her to be happy¨Cwho cares if it was because of Yun Shi Yi or Yun Shi Wei.


    But in fact, there was not only just the Yun brothers. A pair of eyes that had been craving Ruan Zhu for many days now had caught wind of information that could be used against her, so how could he not firmly grasp onto this opportunity?


    Preparations for returning to Lan Zhou were now on the agenda. With an entire household present, there was no need for her, Ruan Zhu, to personally take care of the matter. The Prince of Qi¡¯s residence had Nangong Xun and it was enough for Ruan Yu to act as the master of the Ruan residence.


    Moving was not a simple affair. Parcels and chests of items were packed onto carriage after carriage to be transported outside the city to the dock. The number of ships that solely belonged to the Prince of Qi numbered five or six.


    Because the majority of the Ruan clan¡¯s assets had long been moved to Lan Zhou the previous year, their share was very small. Just one ship was enough to hold the rest of their items with the lower hold for luggage and the upper for people to stay in.


    Ruan Yu was unwilling to be separated from her older sister and her small nephew so she also boarded the Prince of Qi¡¯s large ship. Hence, her own clan¡¯s vessel was left to Steward Yang and Xiao San Zi to manage.


    As the general of the guards protecting the imperial clan, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had the responsibility of protecting the Emperor and could not board the same ship as his wife and children.


    Yun Shi Wei was the commander of five hundred soldiers that in others¡¯ eyes, were a group of rag-tag men who did not fit the atmosphere, and was only responsible for protecting the imperial family¡¯s supplies. Thus, he was often free and unfettered and would constantly gather on his wife¡¯s ship and enjoy the affection between a husband and wife.


    Upon the vast mist-covered water, hundreds of boats followed the current and headed east. At the very front were the guards of the imperial clan who moved closely along with the Emperor¡¯s several dozen ships. Since the Emperor needed to handle official business every day, the ships of the major court ministers trailed closely behind.


    As a next of kin, the Prince of Qi¡¯s ships were not far at all, and one could say that their ships could distantly face the ones of the Emperor¡¯s. When one then turned their back, one would see a spectacular sight continuously stretching over several dozen li long. Like a crowd of ants creeping along the surface of the Chang Jiang River, there were all sorts of vessels and the majority of them were the civilians of the capital who were following the Emperor in relocating.


    Ruan Zhu thought back on everything that had happened before. After her accidental transmigration had caused her to arrive in Tian Chu, the sole person who made her alarmed, Zhao Hai, was now completely eliminated from this world. Despite a few tribulations occurring, overall, she had lived this next life very satisfactory.


    After Ruan Zhu had coaxed the twins to sleep, she walked out of the ship¡¯s hold and immersed herself in the gentle breeze atop the water surface, enjoyed the rare contentment.


    But not long after, little Zh Xi came over from who knows where and clutched his mother¡¯s skirt, his entire face full of greivance: ¡°Ma, I wan Papa, wide horsey.¡±


    Ruan Zhu bent over to pick him up: ¡°How many times have I told you, your Papa is called Yun Shi Yi and is waiting for us to return to Lan Zhou. Food can be carelessly eaten but Papa must not be be carelessly recognized.¡±


    Zhi Xi¡¯s small hand grabbed onto her lapel and he persisted: ¡°Wan Papa, wide horsey.¡±


    The day they had just boarded the ship, the little guy had been full of excitement and scampered out of the cabin every day to watch the scenery atop the river. But not a few days later, he started to miss the joy of being held by Xuanyuan Zong Zhi as they went for a spin on a horse and stubbornly bothered her in asking for Papa.


    Ruan Zhu was especially depressed: ¡°I¡¯ve already said that person isn¡¯t your Papa. Is it that you don¡¯t understand Mandarin? Um, that¡­¡­can¡¯t understand people¡¯s words¡­¡­¡±


    A sneer came from her side: ¡°Your native dialect is leaking through.¡±


    Ruan Zhu whirled and saw Xuanyuan Min Zhi. Anger rose from within her heart and she retorted: ¡°Mind your own business!¡±


    This demon had continuously annoyed her ever since the day they stepped aboard the ship. It was like he knew of her secret and always chose some words that filled her with dread. She had reached a conclusion after careful deliberation that her conduct had been very careful, such that even her few husbands didn¡¯t know. What infuriated her even more was that he had conferred himself the title of her family¡¯s number four, seemingly as if he wanted to threaten her with this.


    [a] Li Shi Min is the personal name of Emperor Taizong, the second emperor of the Tang dynasty, and he is considered one of the greatest emperors in China¡¯s history, with a reign that is a model to all others. Jiang Cheng and Yuan Ji were his brothers, with JC being the Crown Prince while LSM and YJ were princes. All three brothers got caught up in the struggle for the throne with LSM coming out victorious and then killing his nephews. The Wikipedia page is very thorough, if anyone is interested.

 Chapter 83

    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was engrossed in staring at the sweet and graceful woman before his eyes. She had bought him in the slave market at the southern borders but had very quickly gifted him away. Her way of handling things had caused him to staunchly remember her and he had vowed to get back at her someday.


    Afterwards, they had come across each other quite a few times, but his thoughts for revenge had weakened. On the other hand, her figure became even more distinct in his mind.


    During their accidental encounter at Lu Yin Ge where they had both hid in the same trunk and their skin pressed against each other, he had smelled the fragrance coming off her body and wanted to forever hold her in his embrace just like that until the end of the world.


    But she seemed to have no feelings towards him. That was okay. He could secretly find an opportunity and secretly pay attention to her. The Heavens would not turn their backs on one who persevered, and he had finally discovered her secret.


    Thinking of the words he had eavesdropped on in the prison, Xuanyuan Min Zhi proudly smiled.


    ¡°Your Highness, the respectable Third Prince, you must be very idle? So idle that you have nothing to do and must trifle with a weak woman?¡± Ruan Zhu was very agitated. Her clear eyes were usually peaceful, but currently flashed with a light like a flame of anger. ¡°This is the Prince of Qi¡¯s ship. If you have no business here, please leave. Do not freeload in my place.¡±


    ¡°No reason to be this angry; it¡¯s not like I am going to eat you.¡± A wicked smile hung on Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s mouth and he advanced forward a few steps: ¡°As a matter of fact, I actually do want to eat you. Do you remember that time in the chest in Lu Yin Ge? Your body was indeed very delicious then, hmm?¡±


    Recalling the time she had been molested by him in the trunk, Ruan Zhu became angered from shame and wanted to open her mouth to curse him. But there were servants on the deck coming to and fo, and she also now had the noble title of the Princess of Qi and could not do things to cause her to lose her image. She felt her head throbbing painfully as if it would split open, and by chance, saw Yun Shi Wei step out from the cabin.


    ¡°Properly take care of your Yun clan¡¯s child. Don¡¯t act like someone with nothing to do for the entire day. In any case, you are the child¡¯s uncle.¡± Ruan Zhu stuffed Zhi Xi into Yun Shi Wei¡¯s arms. Little children were both angels and demons, causing her, as the mother, to also feel helpless at times.


    ¡°Wan Papa, wide horsey¡­¡­¡± Little Zhi Xi had been thrown away by his mother and opened his mouth to convey his grievances.


    ¡°Wanting to ride a horse is easy.¡± Yun Shi Wei chuckled. Lifting Zhi Xi up, he placed the child atop his shoulders: ¡°How about this? Uncle will let you ride until you¡¯ve had enough.¡±


    Using his neck to support little Zhi Xi, he dashed back and forth along the deck.


    Perhaps little Zhi Xi thought this kind of horse wasn¡¯t bad as he grabbed onto Yun Shi Wei¡¯s head and shrieked with laughter.


    ¡°Follow me.¡±


    Ruan Zhu called out to Xuanyuan Min Zhi and entered the ship¡¯s cabin. Past the door was a very spacious drawing room decorated in a style that could be classified as of the Tang dynasty with a rice-white fluffy rug covering the ground.


    Nuan Chun was sitting on the ground, huddled around a small table in front of him. There was a small stove on top of the table and he had placed some sauteed tea leaves inside. Hearing footsteps, he lifted his head to see his Master walking in and stood up to perform the greetings.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, this slave is currently boiling tea for Miss. How about this slave brings over some refreshments?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was currently breastfeeding and had to eat four to five meals every day. At this moment, Nuan Chun was concerned she was currently hungry.


    ¡°No need, you can withdraw!¡± Ruan Zhu gave her order with pinched brows. Seeing the demon following behind her, she felt even more vexed. ¡°Nuan Chun, stand guard outside. Remember to not let anyone come in and disturb us; I have official business to discuss.¡± She had to clearly understand exactly how much Xuanyuan Min Zhi knew.


    ¡°This slave will obey.¡± Nuan Chun fell back and left.


    Ruan Zhu sat down in Nuan Chun¡¯s seat. A flowing long skirt covered in lotus flowers and leaves covered her beautiful legs, and she gave a sideways glance at the tall man entering, seeing spotlessly white socks on his feet. Not bad, he could be considered a cultured man. She herself did not wear socks, but strangers, especially men, could not do the same as she always felt there was a heavy stench on mens¡¯ feet.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi sat down across from her so that they were separated by the table. A lock of hair dangled onto his forehead, making him appear somewhat wanton and unrestrained, and an immensely proud smile floated on his lips. ¡°Asking me to enter for something¨Cif it is to ** once, it will be exactly what this prince has been seeking.¡±


    Black lines were across all of Ruan Zhu¡¯s face: ¡°How did you find out?¡±


    He asked a question despite already knowing the answer: ¡°Find out what?¡±


    Ruan Zhu glared at him, exceptionally furious. Fortunately, he was trustworthy and didn¡¯t look at her strangely. Otherwise, she would really want to flay him and throw him into a fire to be burned into ashes.


    ¡°You clearly know it.¡± She thought a bit, then asked: ¡°Zhao Hai¡¯s tongue was cut off by you?¡± Apart from him, she could not think of a second person.


    ¡°I wanted to find an opportunity to be closer to you and the Heavens have granted that wish.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi leisurely poured himself a cup of tea. After having a sip, he then unhurriedly continued: ¡°From the neighboring cell, I overheard the conversation between the two of you.¡±


    The walls have ears! The words the ancients spoke were ones of wisdom and it was actually her that had been careless. Ruan Zhu¡¯s breath was caught in her chest. Vexed to death, she frantically demanded: ¡°What is it that you really want?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s very simple. I want to be your family¡¯s number four.¡±


    ¡°Is it that simple to become my family¡¯s number four?¡± Ruan Zhu sneered. But he was holding onto her weakness and refusing was really not an option. Rather than having to accept who know what kinds of concubines in the future, the man in front of her had the best qualifications in all aspects. But precisely because he was too good, she was unwilling to accept him. A Prince of Qi was already enough¨Cdon¡¯t tell her a Prince of Yong also had to join in?


    ¡°As long as you agree it¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    ¡°Why must I agree? Do you think that just by relying on fabricating rumors about me, others will believe in your lunatic ravings?¡±


    ¡°I have proof.¡± A sly yet mocking expression emerged on Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s face. To Ruan Zhu, it was incredibly vile and also incredibly sinister.


    Ruan Zhu did not believe him and her dewy eyes were full of disdain.


    ¡°The morning that Zhao Hai rode the wooden donkey through the streets, I went to visit the prison of Shun Tian Hall again and found a letter he had left behind in the cell he had stayed in. Heh heh, it had been written with blood. Needless to say, you should be clear about what is written on it.¡±


    A posthumous letter¨CRuan Zhu was shocked and her complexion immediately turned pale. Even though Zhao Hai did not have a tongue, he could still write and reveal the thoughts in his mind for all the commoners to see. She had been too careless¨Cfeeling that person was close to death, she had relaxed her guard.


    ¡°If you agree, I¡¯ll hand over the letter.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not enough to have only my approval. It will also need the ones of Yun Shi Yi and the Prince of Qi.¡± Ruan Zhu gnashed her teeth in anger and practically shouted in reponse: ¡°As a man, don¡¯t push all of the problems my way. If you have the ability, settle it yourself.¡±


    ¡°You agree?¡± Joy spread across Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s entire face. Stroking one of her hands, he tugged, pulling her against his chest. ¡°As long as you agree, those people aren¡¯t an issue. I have a plan to make them give their consent.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was too late to defend herself from being dragged into his embrace. His arms were full of strength and he hugged her like one would hug a baby. Placing her horizontally against his legs, he bent over, meaning to send down a kiss¡­¡­Ruan Zhu hastily used her hand to stop him: ¡°If you want me to agree, hand over Zhao Hai¡¯s letter.¡±


    ¡°The time hasn¡¯t come yet.¡± He pushed aside the hand that was being a hindrance and used his own lips to block hers, extending his tongue to push past her pearly teeth, touching that small, slippery and soft tongue¡­¡­His heart itched terribly. Forcibly inhaling, he sucked her tongue into his mouth.


    This was the second time he had kissed her, and feeling that she was even more delicious now, he couldn¡¯t resist deepening the kiss. His two hands roamed across her soft body. When they touched her chest, his emotions became hard to endure and he stretched his hands inside her lapel to grope her.


    Ruan Zhu pushed him away with her hands: ¡°We haven¡¯t wed. Don¡¯t mess around.¡± Nothing had started yet and she most definitely did not want the evil reputation of having ruined his innocence.


    ¡°Let me kiss you for a while first.¡± He still wanted more and a strong manly aggression rolled off him.


    Having been enticed by such a dashing man, how could Ruan Zhu not be moved? Anger arose in her heart again. This bastard has really thought of her as a blockhead for him to fiddle with as he pleased.


    ¡°You really are very tasty.¡± Only after a very long time did Xuanyuan Min Zhi reluctantly move away from her: ¡°I will not give up.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you very capable?¡± Ruan Zhu got up from his lap and straightened her messy clothes and beautiful hair: ¡°Go settle everything cleanly and use a palanquin with eight carriers[a] to invite me into the wedding hall or there¡¯s no point in discussing this.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not too difficult. After I find some bearers, I¡¯ll request Emperor-Father to write an imperial edict to grant this marriage.¡±


    ¡°Up to you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu stepped around him, heading outside of the cabin. It was hard to guarantee an accident would not occur if she stayed any longer with him. Intelligent people had to understand how to judge the hour and size up the situation.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi looked on as the beautiful figure left the room and the corners of his mouth couldn¡¯t help but rise while his thick sword-like eyebrows similarly raised into a leisurely arc. He thought back of her conversation with Zhao Hai in the prison¨Cmanufacturing glass, establishing a spy agency, even helping Yun Shi Wei found special forces!


    He shook his head. Truly a mysterious woman. Exactly what kind of soul was in that body? Anyway, he would not let go. Being a secondary husband was fine and being number four was whatever; he did not care.


    On the day they reached Jiang Cheng, the majority of the people aboard all of the vessels wished to go ashore to once again savor the feeling of having their feet firmly planted on the ground. Besides, this Jiang Cheng was not merely an ordinary town¨Cthe world-famous Huang He Tower[b] was precisely located here.


    That famous poem of Cui Hao¡¯s¨C¡°Yellow Crane Tower¡±¨CRuan Zhu could indeed recite it like ripe as melons falling from vines.[c] Since they were passing by, how could Ruan Zhu not go to play for a bit?


    The ships of the officials added with the boats of the accompanying common civilians equaled to nearly a thousand vessels, and they all gathered in the dock at the south bank. Literary scholars waved their fans and recited a few lines as they disembarked to go sightseeing while commoners went off in groups of three or five to purchase daily necessities.


    Ruan Zhu pushed the twins to their wet nurses and threw Zhi Xi to Yun Shi Wei before taking Nuan Chun in going ashore.


    Jiang Cheng was very large and boasted many famous landmarks and other sites where one day was not enough to see them all.


    Ruan Zhu picked a few of the main ones and headed towards Huang He Tower. The magnificent multi-tiered tower that was the first under the Heavens was fully surrounded by soldiers on guard and on patrol on all sides.


    Ruan Zhu recognized one of them as having done work for Xuanyuan Zong Zhi before, and it was only when she went to ask that she discovered the Emperor was on the top floor.


    Looks like she couldn¡¯t enter the Yellow Crane Tower today!


    Right when Ruan Zhu was about to turn around, her husband, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi, stepped out from inside. He strode towards her and pulled on her hand: ¡°I saw you from far away. Follow me inside all right? It just so happens that Emperor-Father also wants to see you.¡±


    ¡°See me?¡± Ruan Zhu had not made any preparations and her currently outfit was also very plain and simple, so was it a good idea to meet him like this?

 Chapter 84

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    [1] ÊÏ | shi | clan name; maiden name. A way to identify women that have married.


    Ruan Zhu had only come out to go sightseeing and was met with the Emperor¡¯s summons. He was the venerable Jiu Wu Zhi Zun,[a] at the same level as the future¡¯s Chairman of a country. She said in a small voice: ¡°Do you think I¡¯m able with my current appearance? That um, wouldn¡¯t that offend His Imperial Majesty?¡±


    If the previous several palace banquets hadn¡¯t occurred during the time when she was pregnant, then they were during the period when she was recovering after childbirth, causing her to miss them all. There was still a bit of a small commoner¡¯s mindset in her subconscious, so as soon as she heard she was to pay a formal visit, her thoughts inevitably became nervous.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi smiled: ¡°Wife, Emperor-Father is not a man-eating tiger. When you meet him, you will understand. He is rather amiable towards the younger generation.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had of course heard that this Emperor was soft-tempered and ordinarily loved dance and literature, rather like Song Ren Zong of Chinese history.[b] Since taking the throne, he had actively undertaken the project of developing the motherland¡¯s culture, causing the military men to lack favorable positions to display their skills. The entire army¡¯s combat ability had declined as a result. Otherwise, how would they have had no means against the Red Eyebrow army in the south?


    However, when all was said and done, the Emperor was a fair and good emperor. The ministers and civilians quite loved and respected him; at least the citizens of the capital did, or else there would not be so many commoners¡¯ boats following him in relocating to Lan Zhou.


    ¡°Lord Husband, do you think what I¡¯m wearing is too plain and will cause offense?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi studied his wife¡¯s bright and clean oval face which did not need to be scrutinized for long. Her hair that had been combed into a chuiyunji was devoid of ornaments and stretched to her waist, all of it appearing as graceful as floating clouds. On her upper body was a satin snow-hued top garnished with flowers peeking out secretly and flowing sleeves; her lower half was adorned in a water-blue flowing satin skirt that trailed on the ground. Wrapped around both of her arms was a hazy silver muslin.


    Simple and neat was simple and neat, she was also utterly captivating, just like a lily quietly poised in a valley, exuding an air that made one fascinated. He sighed in his heart. It was no wonder his third brother could become so enchanted by her and be willing to become her family¡¯s number four. It was incredibly difficult for such a proud and arrogant person like him to act that way.


    ¡°The women of our Tian Chu all like to cover themselves in flowers. Though I have never seen you wear them, the Zhu¡¯er without any of that has a magical air. I think this looks nice. This is very good, very beautiful, and even many of the imperial consorts are not your equal.¡±


    ¡°Where am I beautiful?¡± Having been complimented by him, Ruan Zhu was delighted and turned towards Nuan Chun: ¡°Go find a tavern nearby and stay there for a while. If you want to eat something, order it and do not worry about the cost.¡±


    ¡°This slave will nevertheless return to the ship to take care of the Young Master.¡±


    Nuan Chun looked on as his family¡¯s Miss was led by Third Master into Huang He Tower, envy in his eyes. When could he also lead her by the hand and speak words of love with no worries? What a pity that he had been taciturn at birth and could not easily speak words that made one feel pleasant inside.


    Ancient staircases were very steep ,so by the time they had reached the top, Ruan Zhu was faintly gasping for air with beads of sweat on her nose. It looked like she lacked exercise, ah!


    There were quite a few people at the top floor all in civilian clothes with unrecognizable workmanship. Some were sitting, some were standing, and with the exception of Xuanyuan Min Zhi and a few limited others, she didn¡¯t recognize at least half of them. But in the middle of them sat a forty-some year old middle-aged person who could certainly be assumed to be the Emperor of Tian Chu. She slightly swept a quick look over and soon afterwards lowered her head, afraid others would hold her in contempt if she showed a lack of etiquette.


    ¡°This subject-son with Wife Ruan-shi[1] humbly greets Emperor-Father.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi formally bowed in respect. As this was the first time Ruan Zhu had met the Emperor, she naturally had to kneel and did so on top of the cushion that a palace eunuch threw over, kowtowing and sending her regards to the Emperor. She only said: ¡°Daughter-in-law Ruan-shi has come to pay respects to Emperor-Father. May Elder have a thousand years of peace.¡±


    ¡°You are Zong Zhi¡¯s wife? Lift up your head for us to have a look.¡± The Emperor had long known about her from the Fifth Prince¡¯s descriptions, but had never had the chance to meet her and couldn¡¯t help but to be a little curious. Providing strategies and improving military weaponry that lead to the increase of the imperial army¡¯s combat ability¨Cbeing able to block the rebels at Cang Huang Mountain was all thanks to her.


    ¡°Responding to Emperor-Father, Daughter-in-law is precisely the Princess of Qi, Ruan Zhu.¡±


    Ruan Zhu lifted her head and saw the forty-some years old Emperor wearing a long silvery white silk gown with two deeply set eyes. He was prominently thin though his mind and vigor seemed to still be good, and he gave others quite an amiable and approachable feeling. The fan in his hand gently swayed; on it were written several verses that were precisely from the Wang Wei poem she had recited before,¡¶Life in the Mountains on an Autumn Evening¡·.


    ¡°The wife Zong Zhi has taken seems to not be bad. It could be said she possesses both ability and appearance.¡± She saw the Emperor only smile and praise her in this way. Modifying the army¡¯s tools and weapons was a military secret and could not be spoken in front of everyone. This was to avoid bringing danger to her, as, if the enemy were to find out an planned an assassination or perhaps a kidnapping, things would become troublesome.


    ¡°The imperial family is a great galaxy of talent and ones with both ability and appearance are innumerable. Daughter-in-law does not deserve the praise.¡±


    ¡°The Princess of Qi has no need to be self-effacing. You are called Ruan Zhu, we will call you Zhu¡¯er. I am Zong Zhi¡¯s Emperor-Father so you can just call us ¡®Father¡¯!¡± Not waiting for Ruan Zhu to respond, the Emperor said towards Xuanyuan Zong Zhi: ¡°The small toy you brought to us to see this morning¨Cis it here?¡±


    ¡°Responding to Emperor-Father, Son has brought a mirror.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi pulled out a glass mirror from within his sleeves and offered it forward with both hands.


    Ruan Zhu saw that the shape of this mirror was completely unique. From the front, one could see one¡¯s reflection while the back was covered in a mercury disc inlaid with many sparkling sapphires, making the entire mirror look extraordinarily beautiful and pleasing to the eye. Who could have thought Hua Nong Ying Glass Workshop would have succeeded this quickly in producing mirrors? This was indeed a gargantuan sum of wealth.


    The Emperor took the mirror in his hands: ¡°This technique of manufacturing mirrors was indeed thought up by Zhu¡¯er?¡±


    ¡°Responding to Emperor-Father, Zhu¡¯er randomly thought of it.¡±


    ¡°Randomly thinking of it made it possible to come up with such a good idea? If you were to properly think, how exceptional would that be?¡±


    The Emperor praised Ruan Zhu, but unexpectedly, there was a young person who did not look pleased and walked over to criticize: ¡°It is only a mere mirror; a clever yet useless trick that brings no benefit at all to ruling the country or maintaining peace. Emperor-Father is sagacious so how could he have the time to care for your plaything?¡±


    Ruan Zhu did not know who this person was, but seeing as how his appearance was similar to Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s, assumed him to be one of the Emperor¡¯s sons. Perhaps he was the Crown Prince who was always at odds with her husband.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were like cold stars: ¡°Your Highness¡¯s words have erred. May I ask, if one mirror can sell for one hundred taels of silver, how many taels of silver could ten thousand mirrors sell for? What of a hundred thousand or two hundred thousand mirrors? This one is unsure of how much silver that is? Then if I may ask again, how many taels in taxes does the country of Tian Chu receive per year?¡±


    ¡°Allow me to give an answer on behalf of the Crown Prince.¡± The Third Prince, Xuanyuan Min Zhi, stood up behind the Emperor as he had long been unable to endure: ¡°A hundred mirrors can sell for ten thousand taels of silver; ten thousand mirrors is precisely a million taels of silver; a hundred thousand mirrors is ten million taels; two hundred thousand mirrors is twenty million; and our country every year receives seventy million taels of silver in taxes.¡±


    Mockery shined in the Crown Prince¡¯s eyes and he responded in a voice that was neither fast nor slow: ¡°What Third Brother said is reasonable, but to sell them at a hundred taels each, how many of the commoners would be able to afford them?¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi indifferently remarked: ¡°Mirrors are glass products and are easily shattered. No one can guarantee a single mirror can be used for a lifetime. The way I see it, they should be manufactured in bulk and sold to every part of the country, not only spreading through all of Tian Chu, but also to foreign countries¨CMongolia in the north, Ling Nan and Siam in the south. East to Korea and Fusang; West to Tianzhu, Persia, Da Shi, with the furthest perhaps being Da Qin.¡±[c]


    Da Qin was precisely the Roman Empire in Europe¨Cthis, Ruan Zhu knew. But if they could sell to such a distant area, did this mean the age of navigation had been shifted to a much earlier date?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw that his wife had been regarded by the Emperor as someone important and his heart was delighted. His expression remained indifferent and neutral but his eyes shined with a light that betrayed his innermost thoughts: ¡°Actually, it is not limited to just mirrors; there are other products as well. The artisans of Hua Nong Ying Glass Workshop have also come up with flower vases, candlestick holders, decorative lanterns, wine cups, and all kinds of small objects that can all be sold at high prices.¡±


    Ruan Zhu unhurriedly lifted her crimson lips and lightly added: ¡°It can also be used to manufacture mahjong tiles, dong xiao[d], flutes, accessories for females, and a multitude of other goods¡­¡­all of these can be made from glass and then sold at high prices.¡±


    ¡°The Princess of Qi¡¯s words are actually correct.¡± Beside the Emperor sat an elderly man with white hair, who smoothed his beard and lowered his head respectfully: ¡°When the Persian merchants buy a glass cup from Tian Chu, they would set its value at several hundred taels. This old man thinks that if mirrors are sold at the same price, we would be losing out on too much.¡±


    A trace of a smile was on Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s mouth: ¡°Prime Minister Wang¡¯s words are reasonable. However, this is the price within the country. Selling it outside the country will require a long journey so it is completely possible to double make it ten times the price.¡±


    The Emperor became full of spirits: ¡°The financial crisis that has plagued our Tian Chu can be entirely solved because of some small glass accessories. Zhu¡¯er, you have accomplished a great achievement; what reward would you like bestowed?¡± A reward should have been conferred when she had modified the military weapons, but the actual truth could not be publicly revealed.


    Bestowing a reward? Ruan Zhu was stunned. She currently did not lack anything and couldn¡¯t think of anything she wanted to be bestowed for the time being.


    As the Emperor¡¯s second son, it was only logical that the Crown Prince became the heir apparent when faced with the premature death of his eldest brother as well as the disappearance of his fifth brother. However, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had returned and his, the Crown Prince¡¯s, brilliance had been suppressed because both his ability and his value were inferior to the former. He looked at how talented the wife of the Prince of Qi was while a brainless woman who only knew how to sleep with men all day long resided in his home, and a fire blazed in his heart.


    He currently still did not know about the matter of Ruan Zhu altering the military weapons. If he did, he would surely cough up blood.


    ¡°Emperor-Father, this subject-son believes the Princess of Qi is bound to not lack precious stones and the like. Would it not be better to confer her an outstanding secondary husband? It just so happens the Crown Princess has a younger brother that is twenty years of age this year¡­¡­¡± The Crown Prince currently wanted to arrange an agent inside the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence.


    Unexpectedly, Xuanyuan Min Zhi called out in a loud voice: ¡°Emperor-Father, what of conferring this subject-son to the Princess of Qi? This subject-son would be more than willing.¡±


    This was what and what? Ruan Zhu could barely wrap her head around the first proposal when the second arrived. Though she had long known this guy had some weird ideas, this was too abrupt; so unexpected that she was unable to accept it: ¡°No¡­¡­Emperor-Father, do not promise him. Zhu¡¯er cannot take the responsibility.¡±


    The letter! Xuanyuan Min Zhi mouthed the words, angering Ruan Zhu so that her complexion became pale.


    The Emperor was astonished: ¡°Min Zhi, we have not heard incorrectly? You wish to become Zhu¡¯er¡®s secondary husband?¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi stood up: ¡°Requesting Emperor-Father to grant this wish; this subject-son will only recognize Ruan Zhu for this lifetime.¡±


    The Emperor looked at Ruan Zhu: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, your opinion?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Ruan Zhu had been threatened by Xuanyuan Min Zhi and did not know what was best. She threw the hot potato towards her husband and hoped he would refuse on her behalf: ¡°This major event must have my Lord Husband to make the decision. Zhu¡¯er does not have the right to agree or disagree.¡±


    Originally, a wife accepting a secondary husband required the principal husband¡¯s agreement. Yun Shi Yi was not present, so let¡¯s just have the number three, who was higher ranked than number four, step up okay!


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was aware of the Crown Prince¡¯s crafty plan. If he did not agree to his Third Brother¡¯s request, perhaps the younger brother of the Crown Princess would use this opportunity to enter the family.


    Sure enough, the Crown Prince loudly called out: ¡°Fifth Sister-in-law already has a Prince of Qi. Having another would clearly be out of keeping with etiquette. Would it not be better to give the younger brother of this subject-son¡¯s wife to her? This younger brother-in-law of this subject-son is well-versed in civil and military affairs, and the man is also handsome and bright. He is a man that is hard to come by and Fifth Sister-in-law will surely like him.¡±


    Annoyed. Xuanyuan Min Zhi stood up, his face cold: ¡°No matter how good your brother-in-law is, can he be my match?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi contemplated for a moment before deciding on a decision and conveying it in a clear voice: ¡°With the right as Zhu¡¯er¡®s third secondary husband, I agree to Third Brother Min Zhi entering the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence. However, he must abide by the rules of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence and may not search for any loopholes to shirk his duty.¡±


    ¡°Since Zong Zhi has agreed, this matter is settled.¡± The Emperor directed towards Wang Bo En: ¡°Prime Minister, see when the auspicious days are. There is no harm in deciding the wedding date today.¡±


    Wang Bo En called for someone to bring over an almanac for him to calculate the days. After doing so, he discovered the sixteenth of this month was an auspicious day, suitable for a wedding. But the time was rushed and there was no time to prepare. If the wedding was to be pushed back, it would need to wait another two months before another auspicious day appeared.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was unsatisfied. Don¡¯t mention two months; he thought even two days was too long. He bowed formally before the Emperor: ¡°Emperor-Father, why not set it on the sixteenth of this month? This subject-son does not need those extravagant displays. Tian Chu is currently fighting against the traitors in the south and has not Emperor-Father also said before that we all must be frugal?¡±


    The Emperor had a headache: ¡°The distance between today and the sixteenth is however only three days. The matter of the betrothal gifts is quite troublesome and we are also short on time with the journey so how can a wedding be arranged for you?¡±


    ¡°There is no need for the inconvenience. Arrange a wedding hall and simply lifting my wife inside will suffice.¡±


    Ruan Zhu silently cursed¨CI¡¯m not your wife yet!


    The Crown Prince¡¯s face was filled with disdain and he curled his lip: ¡°Truly a child who grew up in a barbarian land that does not understand in the slightest what etiquette is. I have heard your people over there are all tattooed and it is common to be stark naked in broad daylight. I do not know if Third Brother is still pure? You should certainly refrain from bringing any dirty diseases into the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi abruptly flared in anger: ¡°Ivory can¡¯t be found in your dog mouth. I¡¯ll let you inspect me right here. If I¡¯m not pure, I¡¯ll kill myself by running into a pillar in the Huang He Tower; if you are spitting blood, I¡¯ll rip open your big mouth on the spot.¡±[e]


    ¡°All right, all right; stop making a fuss. You are all brothers from the same family so why all the noise?¡± Impatience leaked from the Emperor. With the appearance of his dignified air, everyone held their tongue and the room immediately quieted.


    The Emperor waved the fan in his hand and upon seeing the inscription atop it, his mood immediately rose: ¡°We see that Zhu¡¯er is not opposed, thus the wedding will be set for three days later. It so happens that these few days spent sailing have caused us to become unbearably stifled and we will take advantage of this occassion to rest in Jiang Cheng for a few days. Prime Minister, send these instructions down¨Cit is a bit rushed, but the wedding must be properly done and must not wrong Zhu¡¯er.¡±


    ¡°This old subject understands. May Your Majesty be at ease.¡± Wang Bo En stood up to receive the command.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi radiated with delight. He hadn¡¯t expected the situation could be handled this easily and he affectionately gazed at Ruan Zhu.


    The Emperor¡¯s decree had been handed down and Xuanyuan Number Four could be considered to be Ruan Zhu¡¯s man now.


    She felt as if she was pork on the cutting board for the officials to take a slice at. If she had not agreed to Min Zhi¡¯s proposal, it was very possible the Crown Princess¡¯s younger brother would have taken advantage of this void to enter. To have to sleep with a man she didn¡¯t even know¨Cyou might as well kill her.


    Following that, everyone had a meal in Huang He Tower, and during the feast, the Emperor continuously bragged about Ruan Zhu. Pointing at the flag in his hands, he read: ¡°The bright Moon shines in between the pine tree; Over the rocks, the clear spring water runs free.[f] Such a beautiful artistic scene. We do not know what the name of this poem is?¡±


    ¡°Responding to Emperor-Father, this poem is called¡¶Life in the Mountains on an Autumn Evening¡·.¡± Ruan Zhu had plagiarized quite a bit and no longer cared as much, so her complexion was natural.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi looked at his wife with gentle eyes: ¡°Ever since you recited this poem in Lan Zhou, it has circulated and is able to flow right off the tongues of even small children. I had mentioned it to Emperor-Father that it was your work; you do not know how astonished Emperor-Father was at that time.¡±


    ¡°Not just that, hmm?¡± The Emperor spoke as he drank the famous wine of Huang He Tower: ¡°We have also heard the Prince of Qi say this kind of good poem ¡®Some plum blossoms in the corner of the wall grow, that bloom alone in the approaching cold. From afar, it¡¯s known they are not snow, for there is a secret fragrance to behold¡® can be made just from you opening your mouth. Just with this talent, you are stronger than most males.¡±


    The Crown Prince¡¯s eyes slightly shifted and then he suddenly blurted out: ¡°Since the Princess of Qi is this talented, to liven up the atmosphere for Emperor-Father, why not create another poem with Huang He Tower as the subject?¡±


    The Emperor was very fond of verses and immediately agreed: ¡°Zhu¡¯er is quite proficient in verses and her recitations will surely be a rare and good poem.¡±


    Ruan Zhu knew the Crown Prince was purposely making things difficult for her. For herself and for Zong Zhi, she could not throw aside face and deeply pondered for a moment: ¡°Whose family¡¯s flute dances in the Clear Autumn Festival? The yellow crane has returned to its recorded haunt. Man¡¯s tree lovingly crosses the Big Dipper; the Shu River silently embraces the Southern Tower.¡±[g]


    She changed Fan Cheng Da¡¯s line of the Mid-Autumn Festival to the Clear Autumn Festival.[h] Although it also did not fit the season, there was no other choice as she really couldn¡¯t think of anything else.


    The Crown Prince sneered: ¡°We have not approached autumn.¡±


    The Emperor waved his hand: ¡°Man¡¯s tree lovingly crosses the Big Dipper; the Shu River silently embraces the Southern Tower. This ¡®South Tower¡¯ is precisely Huang He Tower. Do not worry about whether or not autumn as arrived as this is indeed a good poem that is hard to come by. Zong Zhi, your wife has much literary talent.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi glanced at Ruan Zhu, his heart proud.


    Everyone finally scattered when it reached the afternoon. The old Emperor had a place to reside in and had been escorted by the local governor to the temporary imperial palace. Although it was last minute, the luxurious details and furnishings were not inferior to the palace in the capital.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi and his wife walked towards Jiang¡¯an, where the large ship of the Prince of Qi¡¯s residence was docked. The government officials had also arranged a residence for them, but Ruan Zhu¡¯s three children were still aboard the ship. Originally, Xuanyuan Min Zhi was also going to follow them, but he had been sent off by Zong Zhi¡¯s sarcastic comments of how he should take care of others¡¯ influence and not destroy his own pure reputation.


    Arriving in Jiang¡¯an, from a far distance, Ruan Zhu could see her second sister Ruan Yu¡¯s figure standing in a dilapidated boat, passing over a cloth bag over to a middle-aged woman wearing old-fashioned clothing. The cloth bag was very heavy and with one glance, anyone could tell there was silver inside.


    ¡°Wife, look, is not that person your mother?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi pointed at the middle-aged woman on the boat.


    Ruan Zhu had also recognized her¨Cit truly was Madam Ruan. It was hard to imagine she had fallen to this kind of condition and yet had still followed with the relocation. Was she intending to head to Lan Zhou? Who was she going to seek shelter with¨CRuan Zi Xu or perhaps the Yun clan?


    Ruan Zhu did not know what was best. Heading over wasn¡¯t an option but neither was not heading over. The time she had spent with Mother Ruan wasn¡¯t very long and her feelings towards her were weak. On the other hand, Ruan Yu had grown up by their mother¡¯s side since small. Even though their mother was terribly biased, affection between mother-daughter was inherent and it wasn¡¯t something that would disappear because of a few rifts.


    Receiving the package, Madam Ruan¡¯s expression was complicated and she turned around before using her hand to wipe away the tears that had flowed out.


    The dock was bustling with activity, with some selling small trinkets, some hefting long poles with items onto their shoulders, fishermen heading back home, pedestrians walking back¨Call in all, an extremely noisy and crowded scene. Normally, it would be very hard to find a person, but as soon as Ruan Yu merely turned her head, she saw Ruan Zhu from among the crowd of people.


    Stunned, she yelled out: ¡°Sister.¡±

 Chapter 85

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Ruan Zhu lifted her skirt to avoid the noisy crowd and not long after, finally reached the shore and stepped onto the bow of the boat. This shabby vessel was a little over thirty meters long and a little over one meter wide. The boat¡¯s cabin was set with shabby planks and black tarpaulin and packed with people that all wore the clothes of the average commoner.


    When those people saw that two ladies from a wealthy family had come aboard their boat, they all crowded over in astonishment to see the bustle.


    Ruan Zhu stepped closer and performed the rites to Madam Ruan, neutrally saying: ¡°Zhu¡¯er greets Mother.¡±


    Madam Ruan dazedly looked at her eldest daughter: ¡°I heard you gave birth to twins of mixed sex.¡±


    Ruan Zhu forced a smile: ¡°It was in the beginning of the year. The boy is called Bo Yu, the girl is Bo Ya; they are both very adorable.¡±


    ¡°Was it with Mister Lu?¡± Madam Ruan looked ashore and followed her eldest daughter¡¯s gaze towards an unspeakably noble and tall figure. She still did not know that Lu Piao Xiang was Tian Chu¡¯s fifth prince. After she had been kicked out of her father¡¯s home, she did not have the face to return and was unclear about anything regarding the Ruan clan.


    ¡°They are, Ma.¡± She looked at the shabbily dressed woman who was her mother in name only. She was merely thirty-some years old, but both of her temples had become slightly white and her skin had also yellowed. Ruan Zhu remembered how her figure at home been so beautiful and moved with such a coquettish attitude, but now that pair of watery eyes had dimmed.


    ¡°It seems that Zhu¡¯er and Yu¡¯er have been living happy and blessed lives. That is good, that is good.¡± Madam Ruan¡¯s nose became sour and tears fell.


    ¡°Madam!¡± A man strode out of the ship¡¯s hold¨Cit was Madam Ruan¡¯s fourth secondary husband, Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu: ¡°Madam should go look at Second Brother Wei; he¡¯s violently coughing and the situation does not look too good. The boat owner keeps on cursing to no end, saying he is too smelly and that other guests have already complained. He would like for us to leave the boat.¡±


    Having finished saying that, Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu walked over to bow before the two sisters: ¡°Eldest Miss, Second Miss.¡±


    From head to toe, it seemed as if Madam Ruan had not heard what Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu had said as she absent-mindedly looked towards the two sisters.


    ¡°Ma, come back home with us!¡± Ruan Yu couldn¡¯t bear it and pulled at her mother¡¯s sleeve: ¡°Stop caring about that man anymore, you don¡¯t owe him anything; it¡¯s him that has always owed you. Yu¡¯er¡­¡­Yu¡¯er also needs Ma by her side.¡± Her eyes became red after speaking up to there.


    Madam Ruan was stupefied and shook her head.


    ¡°Why?¡± Ruan Yu pulled on her mother¡¯s arm and impatiently said: ¡°Are you possibly still concerned about that man? What¡¯s good about him? What part of him can compare to Papa?¡±


    Distress leaked through on Madam Ruan¡¯s face and she only responded after a long while: ¡°It is not because of Wei Rong. Yu¡¯er, you don¡¯t understand. Ma can no longer return. After I passed through that doorstep, I could no longer return.¡±


    Ruan Yu knew her mother¡¯s temper was stubborn and also one that liked face. Any person who could calmly take a step back at that time would not have led their entire family in leaving. ¡°Ma, as long as you still have us in your heart, it won¡¯t be difficult and Papa will also forgive you.¡±


    Madam Ruan¡¯s dark eyes suddenly brightened as she excitedly grabbed her daughter: ¡°Your Papa forgiving me¨Chas he said something like this before?¡±


    Ruan Yu stammered: ¡°Although Papa has never mentioned it before, I know he has always been thinking of you. He has kept all of the items you¡¯ve used before; on your birthday, he was extremely taciturn and didn¡¯t speak the entire day.¡±


    ¡°It was I who let him down.¡± Madam Ruan suddenly sobbed out: ¡°What on earth is he thinking of me for? We¡¯ve already said to part without hard feelings. Can¡¯t you just find another young and beautiful one?¡± The last line was said towards old man Ruan.


    After a man of Tian Chu repudiated his wife, he lost the right to wed another, but if he truly did remarry, he could not be given a title and any children birthed between the two of them would be regarded as illegitimate and without the right to inherit any property or assets.


    The good impression Ruan Zhu had of Madam Ruan came from the day she had given birth to Zhi Xi when the latter entered the delivery room to help take care of her. It could be regarded that having this kind of mother was still with its benefits. Turning her head towards the docks, she saw Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s handsomely bright figure was still standing there, and the corner of her mouth couldn¡¯t help but curve into a smile while she lifted her hand to beckon him over.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw his wife¡¯s gesture and headed to the shore with large steps, where he then lightly leapt and came aboard. Gazing at her with eyes full of affection, he asked: ¡°Wife, is something the matter?¡±


    Ruan Zhu shallowly smiled: ¡°Do you have any silver banknotes on you?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi fished around his sleeves, his expression awkward: ¡°These past few days have been spent on the ship and there has been no use for banknotes, thus I did not bring any.¡±


    Ruan Zhu pushed him: ¡°Go look on the dock to see if there¡¯s anyone you recognize and go borrow some. We can just return double the amount when we return.¡± The Prince of Qi¡¯s ship was considered part of the imperial household and could not be docked together with the vessels of the commoners so the distance was relatively far and a round trip was rather inconvenient.


    ¡°I will find someone. There is no need to pay them back; it is considered their honor to be able to lend us money.¡±


    What Xuanyuan Zong Zhi said was justified. Those men usually fawned over him and it still depended on whether his mood was good or not.


    Reaching the shore in one leap, he saw a fifth-rank official and raised his hand to block the other¡¯s way.


    That fifth-rank official was just about to rain curses when he saw that it was the most favored Fifth Prince and immediately jumped with fright and hurriedly paid his respects. Xuanyuan Zong Zhi requested a few silver banknotes from him and then turned around and barred a few other officials to coerce more banknotes.


    Madam Ruan saw her son-in-law¡¯s actions and was so surprised her eyes widened. Those officials usually had their eyes stuck on the top of their heads and treated commoners viciously. When one met them on the streets, regular civilians had to keep a far distance, so when did this son-in-law have such large ability?


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi returned to the boat with a stack of silver banknotes in his hands. He didn¡¯t know how many there were total and simply stuffed the whole lot in his wife¡¯s hand: ¡°See if this is enough. If not, I will go ask for more.¡±


    This was precisely the advantage of being someone in power¨Cone could openly rob others at any time and any place.


    Ruan Zhu saw that these silver banknotes were marked with either fifty taels or a hundred taels. With this thickness, no matter how one said it, it should still be a few thousand, right!? The most an average commoner could earn in one year of hard, bitter labor was ten taels of silver. Exactly how much of the people¡¯s blood, sweat, and tears have these officials raked? Regardless of the time or the space, anywhere there were officials, there would be **?


    ¡°Ai! Three years of a just and honorable magistrate amounts to one hundred thousand snowflakes of silver.[a] Words of wisdom, hmm!¡± Ruan Zhu sighed in admiration and offered the large stack of banknotes towards Madam Ruan: ¡°Ma, take these to rent a solo boat. Don¡¯t cram in one with so many commoners. You won¡¯t have to take the others¡¯ curses and also won¡¯t feel unhappy.¡±


    ¡°How could Ma so easily take this many banknotes?¡± Madam Ruan¡¯s fingertips touched the silver banknotes, her expression uneasy and then stubbornly backed away: ¡°Take it back to save for my grandsons, for when they marry. Yu¡¯er has already given Ma so much, Ma does not want it. Take it back.¡±


    ¡°Ma, you also saw it. These banknotes were gathered, and besides, I don¡¯t lack silver.¡± To her, this money was truly almost the same as picking some up from the ground.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, I don¡¯t understand. Take it back and save it for the children. Ai, it¡¯s not easy to survive in the world and it¡¯s hard to make money!¡±


    Madam Ruan had a good side in that she was not particularly avaricious. The day she left, she would rather save face and refused to open her mouth to ask old Master Ruan for compensation. Saying she didn¡¯t want it meant she didn¡¯t want it, and she stubbornly shoved the wad of banknotes back into her eldest daughter¡¯s hand.


    Yet Ruan Zhu saw her mother turn around and run inside the ship¡¯s cabin while tears streamed down her face as if she was afraid to be discovered by her daughter.


    Ruan Zhu gloomily held the stack of banknotes as she stared blankly before her, then saw the standing Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu: ¡°Fourth Father, give these banknotes to Mother so your lives can be a little more comfortable.¡±


    Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu refused to stretch out his hand and heaved a sigh: ¡°Eldest Miss, please forgive me for saying this, but I actually feel your Ma¡¯s current circumstances are much better than before as the previous her was ruined by money. You should just take it back!¡±


    They all said money was destructive, but smart people used it to their benefit; fools had their souls corroded by it.


    ¡°Although your Ma has never mentioned it, but it can be seen that she deeply regrets what happened before.¡± Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu shook his head, his entire face rueful. ¡°The one she cherished abandoned her while the ones she paid no attention to yet sent charcoal in snowy weather.[b]¡°


    ¡°Mother was abandoned by whom?¡± Ruan Zhu asked. Was it Wei Rong, Wei Jia, or perhaps Ruan Ju?


    ¡°After we had been driven out by your maternal grandfather, the entire family, including Ruan Ju¡¯s, moved to a poor alley in the capital. Those men of Ruan Ju¡¯s always stole your mother¡¯s silver and later also took her hair ornaments. During that time, Second Miss came over a few times, so perhaps you have heard her say this before.¡±


    Ruan Zhu nodded. During that time when Maternal Grandfather came to shoot the breeze, she had mentioned it.


    ¡°If it was before, then it would be fine, but Ruan Ju secretly deceived Wei Jia in going outside and then sold him to a wealthy family as their bedwarmer. At least she had some conscience and did not sell her blood-related elder brother to those dirty places.¡±


    Ruan Ju had a conscience? Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t think so.


    ¡°But then something happened later¡­¡­Ai, a month after Ruan Ju and her entire family had been driven out, they returned. Taking advantage of your Ma not being home, they kidnapped your Fifth Father Lin and sold him to a whorehouse. Furthermore, his two children were also sold along with him.¡±


    Fifth Father Lin was Madam Ruan¡¯s fifth secondary husband who usually did not like to meddle in things and only asked to live his days well.


    Ruan Zhu was greatly alarmed: ¡°How could Ruan Ju be like that? She¡¯s deranged.¡±


    ¡°Luckily I fled fast with my own child at the time or it would have been hard to escape misfortune.¡± Grief and pain flashed in Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu¡¯s eyes as he remembered: ¡°It was only after your Mother had received a letter that she rushed back from outside. We looked all over for Fifth Father Lin and his sons and searched so many places, and finally after half a month, found the two children in an unlicensed whorehouse. It was one of those illegal places that specialized in letting men have fun. Those pitiful children breathed their last not long after we brought them back. Fifth Father Lin was also rescued from an unlicensed whorehouse and after he saw his children¡¯s corpses, he went mad. Later, when no one was watching, he ran out and drowned himself in a pond.¡±


    Ruan Yu thought about her two deceased younger brothers and tears immediately flowed down her cheeks.


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t speak for a very long time. Her chest felt heavy, as if it had been blocked. After Ruan Ju had been disfigured by Xuanyuan Min Zhi, she felt he had gone too far, but now, she felt the other rather deserved it. Being sent to Da Jue Mountain would be an even more severe punishment, right?


    ¡°Your Ma looked on as those two children died without even a way to save them. She remained silent for several dozen days in a row, not saying a single word; her entire being as if she had lost her soul. She even drove away Wei Jia when he secretly snuck out to visit his father. She bitterly resents Wei Rong¡¯s entire family and also refused to invite a physician when Wei Rong¡¯s illness became more severe. Even up to now, she treats him indifferently.¡±


    Only after experiencing all sorts of ordeals would those who are lost be able to achieve nirvana and find the true meaning of life.


    ¡°Wei Rong can also be considered pitiful. I¡¯m afraid he cannot survive for much longer.¡±


    Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu sighed over and over, then greeted the two sisters and took his leave, turning to return to the ship¡¯s cabin.


    Ruan Zhu stood on the deck for a long while before following her husband and younger sister in leaving.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, what do you think is the reason people live for?¡±


    ¡°For our loved ones, for our babies that we have raised together. Isn¡¯t that right, my little sweetie Bo Ya?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi picked up his daughter and coaxed her, leaving his son to go wild on top of the bed. The three-month old had already learned how to turn over and chattered to himself as he flipped over from one to the other side in play.


    ¡°Why are you bullying my son?¡± Ruan Zhu picked up Bo Yu, but surprisingly, this child was one who only wanted to have fun and started crying as soon as he was held. She quickly placed the small toddler back on the bed and Bo Yu once again returned to his happy state atop the bed.


    ¡°Look, that is why sons are troublesome and it is still my family¡¯s small county princess that is obedient. Wife, in the future, let¡¯s not have any more sons and only focus on having daughters!¡±


    ¡°Pei! Do you think Songzi Guan Yin[c] is part of your family so that whatever you think will arrive? If it was like this, this world wouldn¡¯t have so many males and so few females, causing so many males to be destined to remain as bachelors for their entire life while a delicate woman like me has to be portioned out like an apple by you smelly men to be eaten.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi lowered his head respectfully: ¡°Wife¡¯s words are rational. Apples are indeed very delicious so I would like to eat some more later when we go to sleep.¡±


    Ruan Zhu gave him an annoyed glance: ¡°I am not an apple.¡±


    ¡°Spouse, you want to eat apples?¡±


    The cabin door opened and Yun Shi Wei carried little Zhi Xi inside. The little guy struggled free of Yun Shi Wei¡¯s arms and toddled over to hug Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s thigh, happily babbling: ¡°Papa, Papa, want ride horsey.¡±


    ¡°Baby, be good. Papa is currently coaxing your little sister to sleep. It¡¯s also no longer early so Pa will take you to ride horses tomorrow.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi helplessly refused.


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, what did you say?¡± Ruan Zhu seriously stared at him. She had always thought Zhi Xi¡¯s call of ¡®Papa¡¯ was because the child was confused but there was actually another reason¨CIt was this bastard that was the culprit.


    ¡°What have I said?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was at a total loss.


    ¡°How could you allow Zhi Xi to call you ¡®Papa¡¯? This morning in front of Emperor-Father, you even brought up so self-righteously what so-called ¡®rules¡¯ for the Prince of Yong to follow, but have you abided by them?¡±


    ¡°Heh heh¡­¡­in the beginning, it was Zhi Xi who called me thus and since it has been a while, I grew accustomed to it.¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi gave an embarrassed smile, but hurriedly admitted his wrong after seeing his wife¡¯s grave face: ¡°All right, I vow there will not be a next time.¡± He hardened his face as his head lowered towards the little person clutching his thigh: ¡°Zhi Xi, call me Third Father. If you do not listen, there will be never by any more riding horses in the future.¡±


    ¡°Third¡­¡­Father¡­..ride horsey.¡± Zhi Xi inarticulately repeated and raised his little face, his eyes full of hope.


    ¡°All right, we will go ride horses. Ai, being a third father is also hard, ah!¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi handed Bo Ya to his wife to look after and led Zhi Xi out of the ship¡¯s cabin.


    Yun Shi Wei sat at the head of the bed: ¡°I heard from Ruan Yu that you met maternal aunt?¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought of the encounter with Madam Ruan and nodded her head.


    Yun Shi Wei saw that she was taciturn and thought she was deeply hurt, thus consoled her: ¡°It can be considered unlucky for your mother to fall into such a plight so don¡¯t feel too upset.¡± He was not good with words, so if the recipient was changed to Ruan Yu, she would absolutely have rolled her eyes at him.


    ¡°I understand.¡± Ruan Zhu coaxed Bo Ya to sleep, then called for an imperial bodyguard by the entrance to find one of the wet nurses to have her take the child away.


    Bo Yu, this little boy, was full of spirits and was still crazily playing around on the bed, so she might as well just let him play to his fill.


    Yun Shi Wei was pensive: ¡°Spouse, I heard you are going to accept Xuanyuan Min Zhi as our family¡¯s fourth?¡±


    Ruan Zhu muttered to herself: ¡°It was the Emperor¡¯s decree.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s also good. Though that guy is annoying, he can also be considered a man.¡± Yun Shi Wei lowered his head and thought for a moment as if he had made up his mind: ¡°Spouse, I have something I want to discuss with you. You must support me.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was surprised and looked at him: ¡°Second Cousin, what¡¯s wrong with you? Why so serious?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei glanced at Bo Yu who was on top of the bed: ¡°Let¡¯s talk somewhere else, Spouse, I want to embrace you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu felt today¡¯s Yun Shi Wei was very strange, as if he had something on his mind. Calling over the other wet nurse to look over Bo Yu, she followed Yun Shi Wei to the room where he usually retired for the night.


    Yun Shi Wei closed the door, hugged his wife, and didn¡¯t speak for a very long time.


    ¡°Second Cousin, if there¡¯s something the matter, don¡¯t hesitate to say it. I will support you.¡±


    ¡°Spouse, speak to the Emperor on my behalf to let me fight the rebels at Cang Huang Mountain.¡±


    [a] ÈýÄêÇåÖª¸®£¬Ê®ÍòÑ©»¨Òø, saying translated literally above which means: 1) A clean magistrate in power will only earn 100,000 taels of income after three years; if it was someone greedy, who knows how much money they would pilfer, 2) even a clean government official must pay thousands of silver, let alone a corrupt official


    [b] Ñ©ÖÐËÍÌ¿, idiom meaning provided help in somebody¡¯s time of need


    [c] From Wikipedia, Songzi (Niangniang) is a Taoist fertility goddess that literally translates to ¡°Maiden Who Brings Children.¡± She is often depicted as Guan Yin herself or as the other¡¯s attendant.

 Chapter 86

    ¡°Why did you think of wanting to go to the battlefield?¡± Ruan Zhu raised her shocked eyes at him and pushed him towards a chair: ¡°Second Cousin, sit down and say it properly.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei pulled her into his lap and numbly said: ¡°In our Yun clan, Eldest Brother is a merchant and I am also a worthless warrior. I can¡¯t let others look down on us; I want everyone to know that those of the Yun clan are not worse than imperial princes.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was a little worried and also a little reluctant: ¡°But heading to the battlefield will be very dangerous.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei shook his head: ¡°I will be careful. For the Yun clan, I must go to the battlefield. Spouse, you don¡¯t understand; all men aspire to travel far and make their mark.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was silent for a moment before she nodded: ¡°Are you taking the soldiers you have trained?¡±


    ¡°Of course they¡¯re coming. They are my good brothers and I have listened to your words and trained them into a special sort of army to carry out all kinds of military campaigns such as fighting in water, the forest, the desert; defensive combat; ambushes¡­¡­I invited several highly trained specialists to teach them rich practical experience and extreme patriotism. Each one of them has an explosive bag and will not hesitate to set it off if they are thwarted in combat. Spouse, you have taught me so much so I want to use the battlefield to show everyone that the men of the Yun clan are all good.¡±


    Studying for practical applications! Ruan Zhu thought of this phrase. In the end, was teaching him so many things good or bad? ¡°You are a lower fifth-rank guerrilla general so wanting to enter the battlefield is a small matter and can be done if Zong Zhi speaks to the Prime Minister.¡±


    ¡°Spouse, stay with me these next few days.¡± Yun Shi Wei lowered his head to kiss his wife while removing both of their clothes. A large palm swept across her soft skin, raising ** and bringing a trace of numbness that endlessly lingered within the two people. After they had kissed for a while, his mouth moved down and took one of her red buds, his two lips incessantly sucking as he drank the milk inside.


    Ruan Zhu had been teased until her face was flushed and delicate moans trailed out from between her lips: ¡°Second Cousin, stop sucking¡­¡­hurry¡­¡­give me¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Wei stretched a hand underneath her and rubbed: ¡°Spouse, you¡¯re drenched.¡±


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­quickly¡­¡­¡± Unable to bear it any longer, her hips twisted as she sought his hand for comfort.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s finger stroked her for a while and he saw her cheeks became fiery red while her eyes were so hazy that it seemed water could drip out at any moment. He removed his finger and positioned his burning member that was already unbearably stiff against her moist petals; finding that small opening that he so desired to enter, he pushed inside. Waves of pleasure crashed down¡­¡­


    Both parties simultaneously cried out: ¡°Ahh!¡±


    Even though his wife was the mother of three children, she was still unimaginably narrow. This kind of tightness gave him a pleasure that was close to death. Every time they made love, it was like this and it nearly caused him to surrender.


    He thrust with all his might. This was the ultimate **.


    As his gushing ** released, he tightly held her against him.


    The night was dark and deep, and the moon had shyly shifted her eyes and ducked behind the clouds. His entanglement with her fell into the deepest part of the night.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s wish was finally fulfilled and he became Ruan Zhu¡¯s number four.


    Practically all of the officials in Jiang Cheng had moved their hands and the items they sent over were piled up in mountains, but it was all used to curry favor with the Emperor. Xuanyuan Min Zhi was a powerless prince and those with a brain would never send him presents. On the other hand, as His Fifth Highness Zong Zhi¡¯s Princess of Qi, Ruan Zhu actually received a few.


    After they had paid respects to the Heavens and the earth, paid respects to one¡¯s parents, and the husband and wife had bowed to each other, they were sent into the bridal room.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s happiness couldn¡¯t conceal his racing heartbeat. His long-awaited desire had finally come true at this moment and his face was all smiles. Using the baton to lift the woman¡¯s veil, the female¡¯s sparkling pure face entered the male¡¯s eyes¡­¡­He couldn¡¯t help but to bend his head in wanting to place a kiss down.


    Unexpectedly, the door opened and the matron of honor led a few people inside, bowing in greeting: ¡°May the bride and bridegroom formally exchange the cups of wine.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi had forgotten there was also this procedure. Taking the proffered wine cups, he linked arms with Ruan Zhu and they drank from their respective cups. He then waved his hand: ¡°Quickly withdraw.¡± The Heavens knew how long he had been waiting for this day.


    Yet the matron of honor didn¡¯t budge and Ruan Zhu opened her mouth: ¡°Go receive money from the steward of the Prince of Yong¡¯s residence.¡± She inwardly shook her head¨CXuanyuan Min Zhi, this unfavored Third Prince, was truly too pathetic; even these palace servants didn¡¯t take him seriously.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi finally understood. If it was the normal him, he would long have aimed a kick over, but his mood was good today. Waiting until the matron of honor had led the people out and the room had quieted, he then removed Ruan Zhu¡¯s phoenix crown and cape and was just about to throw off her inner clothes when a palace eunuch from outside the door shouted for him to please receive the guests.


    Frost crept inside Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s eyes as he continued to sit there, motionless.


    Ruan Zhu pushed him and urged: ¡°All men have to do this. Don¡¯t throw your face away and quickly go; I¡¯ll wait for you to return.¡±


    ¡°Truly out of luck.¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi could only stand up and helplessly made his way out of the bridal room.


    Ruan Zhu reclined on the soft bed, extremely pleased. In order to let Yun Shi Wei head happily to the battlefield, she had been in a half-dead state these past few days, so how could she be in a good mood to participate in bridal room matters? In other words, sleeping without a man was truly a blessed thing.


    Ruan Zhu smiled and quickly entered the land of dreams.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi walked towards the courtyard and arrived at the hall where the guests had previously gathered. The visitors inside were like clouds, creating a clamorous scene. The Emperor and major ministers were all present, and it could be said a ruler and his ministers were enjoying the event together.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw his third brother enter and meaningfully glanced at all of his brothers. Receiving the signal, they all crowded around Xuanyuan Min Zhi to offer a toast. You toast one cup, I toast one cup¨Cmaking it so that even though the bridegroom could hold his drink, he still became intoxicated from all the wine poured down his throat. When he was supported by the palace eunuchs back into the bridal room, he could no longer tell north from south.


    He saw a beautiful woman sleeping on the bed and the corners of his mouth rose as he mischievously chuckled. Extending a hand, he held it against the soft cheek, his finger gently sliding across those red lips. Eyes darkening, he lowered his head and pressed a kiss down, kissing it again and again, when a spell of drowsiness attacked him and he fell to the side, falling asleep not a short while later.


    On the morning of the next day, Xuanyuan Min Zhi woke up and looked around the cheerfully decorated bedroom. He patted the space next to him, yet there was no trace of the beautiful woman. Realizing he had missed out on the most important moment, his gut immediately twisted with regret.


    He massaged his temples as the result of the hangover was a splitting headache. Freshening up underneath Xiao Li Zi¡¯s care, he still didn¡¯t have much energy until after having the morning tea.


    ¡°Where is the Princess?¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi thought about last night in the bridal chamber and wanted to cough up blood.


    ¡°As soon as niangniang woke up this morning, she went to look for the Young Masters. She instructed us small ones to tell Prince after Prince has been properly tidied up to not forget to go together with niangniang to pay respects to the Emperor and Empress.¡± Xiao Li Zi respectfully responded while offering him the morning tea.


    Ruan Zhu had woken up bright and early to clothe each of her children and make them presentable. This was something that she had to do every day and she often arranged the same thing for the wet nurses. After she had busily finished with the children, she returned to her own room. Nuan Chun had been with her for a long time and knew his master¡¯s tastes, thus selected a relatively quiet outfit for her to change into that was also suitable for a new bride.


    During her pregnancy, her husbands had been busy with work and even her baths had been under Nuan Chun¡¯s administrations. As the days went by, nature inevitably took its course and the daily changing of clothes was also done by him. Every time, this was Nuan Chun¡¯s most unbearable moment as he looked at the exquisite female figure before him with skin as white as snow. His heart thumped madly and he suppressed his body¡¯s restlessness with all his might as he tidied up his master.


    Having experienced the relationship between a man and a woman for a long time, how could Ruan Zhu not understand? But there was such a large disparity between their statuses and her several husbands would absolutely not agree to having Nuan Chun become a secondary husband. She hesitated for a moment: ¡°Nuan Chun, you are no longer young, so shouldn¡¯t you also have your own family now?¡±


    Nuan Chun was currently tying her waist belt. Hearing her question, his eyes widened with shock: ¡°Eldest Miss¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu spoke of her considerations: ¡°Other men at your age are already fathers with several children. If you agree, I can arrange for you to become a principal husband for someone from a respectable family so that you can live a little more comfortably in the future.¡±


    Nuan Chun remained silent as he finished tying his master¡¯s belt and hung ornaments in it, all in a manner that was neither fast nor slow.


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t know the face that was lowered was deathly white. She thought people preferred to move up; what prospects could one have if one remained a servant for their entire life? But in reality, there were many people in this era that did not think this way.


    After Nuan Chun had finished arranging his master¡¯s clothing, he kneeled down in front of her and kowtowed: ¡°If Eldest Miss dislikes this slave for being a bedwarmer, this slave does not have to be one and can simply be a small slave who brings over water and sweeps the floor. This slave is not picky.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was surprised: ¡°When did I say for you to stop being my bedwarmer?¡±


    Nuan Chun¡¯s eyes were moist: ¡°Is not Eldest Miss telling this slave to go because Miss dislikes this slave for being a hindrance?¡±


    Ruan Zhu frantically said: ¡°Hai, you thought wrong. I was doing this for your happiness. I was thinking you also deserved to enjoy familial love and the right to have children at your knee.¡±


    ¡°This slave only wishes to be by Eldest Miss¡¯s side for an entire lifetime.¡± Nuan Chun turned red in the face and only managed to squeeze out a few words after a good while: ¡°To this slave, Eldest Miss is this slave¡¯s entire happiness.¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought of Nuan Qing¡¯s death and she suddenly softened. Afraid he would be as rigid as a bull¡¯s horns, she comforted him: ¡°I¡¯m used to having you by my side attending to me so if you were to leave, I would be rather reluctant.¡±


    Nuan Chin¡¯s mood immediately improved and his face opened with a smile: ¡°This slave has heard Yun Shan mention that in the family of Eldest Miss¡¯s husband, Lou Yun and Cai Yue of the Yun manor would rather be a bedwarmer for a lifetime than to leave. This slave¡¯s will is like theirs.¡±


    The matron of the Yun manor was Ruan Zhi Xu¡¯s biological younger sister and was also Ruan Zhu¡¯s biological paternal aunt. That time when her aunt had married and led Lou Yun and Cai Yue out of her maternal home, Nuan Chun hadn¡¯t yet been born.


    When she had gone to the Yun manor to visit them, she also did not bring along Nuan Chun so with matters pertaining to Lou Yun and Cai Yue, Nuan Chun had heard about it from Yun Shan.


    Ruan Zhu remembered those two bedwarmers. They had attended to her mother-in-law since small and shared deep emotions. In order to make it up to them, her mother-in-law would tangle with them in bed a quite a few times per month. Bedwarmers were supposed to be tools to warm up their master¡¯s bed with, so her actions were understandable. But since Ruan Zhu could not give Nuan Chun a status, she couldn¡¯t do that sort of thing.


    While she was currently thinking about these worries, her three husbands pushed open the door and entered.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi smiled as he slid a phoenix hairpin with a pendant hanging from its beak into his wife¡¯s hair: ¡°Last night in the bridal room was fine, right?¡± The corner of his mouth raised in a wicked smile. Yesterday, he had colluded with all of his brothers to dump Third Brother full of wine, and it would¡¯ve been a wonder if the latter had the energy and mind to perform the bedroom activities with their wife.


    Min Zhi was currently unspeakably depressed because of that matter. Eyes burning with righteous indignance, he pushed Zong Zhi aside and hugged Ruan Zhu, saying: ¡°Let me get some justice first.¡± He then planted a kiss down on her red lips.


    Under his kiss, breathing became difficult for Ruan Zhu and she was finally able to escape the clutches of the villain with Zong Zhi¡¯s help. Looking in the mirror¨Coh no, her makeup¡­¡­she could only sit back down and reapply it.


    After that was finished, she followed behind her two husbands in heading towards the Emperor¡¯s palace.


    Although Yun Shi Wei was her second concubine, he could not follow as he had not received a decree to do so and was ordered to take care of the children by her.


    TN: I sprained my neck somehow five days ago and I¡¯m not sure when it¡¯s going to heal. This week¡¯s posts are already all scheduled, but I haven¡¯t finished any chapters for February yet. I¡¯m also moving next weekend, so if I happen to miss any dates, please don¡¯t be alarmed and know that I¡¯ll get them up as soon as I can.

 Chapter 87

    When they arrived at the palace, the Emperor was sitting straight-backed in the main chair with a reserved appearance; the Empress sitting next to him. The several secondary husbands were standing yet one did not know why Empress Dowager Zheng was not present among them. Zong Zhi¡¯s biological father, the Prince of Dai, stood to the side of the Empress and threw over a cold glare at Ruan Zhu¡¯s entrance.


    Ruan Zhu pretended not to notice and followed her husbands in paying respects to both the Emperor and Empress, receiving the tea cup from a palace eunuch to present it before the Emperor.


    This venerable Jiu Wu Zhi Zun was aware of Ruan Zhu¡¯s ability and naturally was fond of her. Taking the proffered cup, he then spoke a few words, saying to financially assist her Lord Husbands and be a good and proper wife, before turning his head to have a palace eunuch hand over a famous ink-stone from Duan Zhou as a present.


    Ruan Zhu quietly accepted under an appearance of obedience, but the gift had truly entered her heart a little though only she knew that. Handing over the ink-stone to a palace eunuch by the side to hold onto, she then went to serve tea to the Empress.


    In front of so many people, it was not good for the Emperor to speak of Ruan Zhu¡¯s good deeds and the ones that knew of them were only a few. It wasn¡¯t that he distrusted the Empress; he very much distrusted her. All of the officials in the court knew the Empress¡¯s heart leaned towards the Crown Prince, thus the Emperor concealed quite a few secrets from her.


    The Empress Dowager was relaxed with her eyes closed as she counted the Buddhist prayer beads on her wrist, seemingly like she hadn¡¯t seen Ruan Zhu at all.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s arms had been raised for a while now and started to feel a little sore. She innocently glanced at her two husbands at the side. Zong Zhi felt distressed and greeted the Emperor: ¡°Requesting Emperor-Father to assist by saying a few words.¡±


    The Emperor coughed, but seeing the Empress remaining taciturn, he turned towards one of the palace eunuchs behind him: ¡°Xiao Zhou Zi, the Empress is tired. Support her in returning to rest.¡± The feelings between the two elders had been pretty good when they were young but too many arguments rose up between them later and affections became weaker and weaker. The Emperor was infatuated with painting and calligraphy and did not feel too strongly about the emotions between a man and a woman.


    ¡°Understood!¡± Xiao Zhou Zhi responded and walked over to pay his respects to the Empress: ¡°Niangniang¡­¡­¡±


    The Empress opened her eyes and coldly stared at the female commoner kneeling on the ground: ¡°What kind of tricks did you use to successively snatch away two of this empress¡¯s sons?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was still lifting the teacup and chose to remain silent before the intense Empress. In any case, opening her mouth would be wrong and saying nothing would also be wrong.


    Min Zhi had been sent to the country of Nan Ling since he was small and had little affection for the imperial family of Tian Chu. After going through the wind and rain, he actually paid more attention to unchanging love. ¡°Empress-Mother has misunderstood. It was this subject-son that proactively sought her. My wife has never used any tricks.¡±


    Zong Zhi was still thinking of a countermeasure when, to his surprise, Third Brother had replied in such a manner: ¡°Empress-Mother, Zhu¡¯er is very talented and will surely give the imperial clan face. Even Imperial Grandmother praises her without cease.¡±


    Ice flashed from within the Empress¡¯s eyes: ¡°As expected, once a son has a wife, he forgets his mother. This empress only said one sentence and you two brothers united to stand against me.¡±


    The two brothers saw that their wife was still lifting the cup of tea, yet could not tell her to relax and had a headache from the Empress¡¯s actions.


    The Prince of Dai probed from behind the Empress: ¡°Empress, I have met this girl at Princess Long Yuan¡¯s residence before. She is an insolent child from a merchant family that has clearly never been taught any manners. I had only let her kneel for a little bit longer when she put a front against me and even contradicted her elders.¡±


    Disgust was clear across the Empress¡¯s face: ¡°Truly a commoner that lacks control.¡±


    The Prince of Dai hurried to agree: ¡°What Empress said is too correct. She should just be punished today in kneeling as apology and when she ever turns into someone resembling a wise and virtuous lady and no longer throws away our imperial family¡¯s face, then she can rise.¡±


    The Emperor frowned and directed towards a palace eunuch: ¡°The Prince of Dai has tired. Xiao Zhou Zi, take him back to retire for the day.¡±


    It was only at this time that the Prince of Dai realized he had said the wrong thing and could only follow the palace eunuch in leaving. Who could have imagined that when he reached the entrance, he was struck by a dragon-headed cane who had come out of nowhere, causing him to retreat several steps while crying ouch? Without even looking, it was plain who had arrived. In the palace, the only one who would dare to use a cane to hit people was Empress Dowager Zheng.


    He nevertheless saw the elder Empress Dowager leaning against the dragon-headed cane, panting with rage as she rained down curses: ¡°An entire group of absolutely disgraceful people, bullying my granddaughter-in-law while this old one was absent. Not beating you black-hearted seeds of the four horsemen of the apocalypse to death, are you proud of yourself?¡± Her phrase ¡®group of absolutely disgraceful people¡¯ included the Empress. The more the elder ranted, the angrier she became, and she lifted up the dragon-headed cane again to swing it at the Prince of Dai.


    Zong Zhi strode over in one large step and caught the cane with both palms¡­¡­No matter how bad the Prince of Dai was, he was still his biological father. How could he watch him take a beating and not be concerned? He smiled apologetically: ¡°May Imperial Grandmother take a seat and rest. Imperial Grandmother must not tire yourself out.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng dearly loved her grandson and also adored her granddaughter-in-law the same way. Although the Prince of Dai was her son and the relationship between a mother and her son should be closer than that of a grandmother and her grandson, the Empress Dowager had never really liked this son of hers. She /cursed at Prince of Dai: ¡°You embarrassing and vulgar person, quickly zip up that coarse mouth and leave this place. Seeing you makes one uncomfortable.¡±


    ¡°May Empress-Mother release your anger, this son will immediately leave and will not ager Empress-Mother.¡± The Prince of Dai hurriedly bowed then rushed out of the palace.


    Empress Dowager Zheng saw that the Prince of Dai had left and seemed as if she hadn¡¯t yet scolded enough. Seeing Ruan Zhu still had the teacup raised in the air, her anger rushed forth: ¡°You muddled silly girl, can¡¯t you see your mother-in-law is humiliating you? Why haven¡¯t you hurried to stand up yet?¡±


    With the Empress Dowager as support, how much face did she have! Ruan Zhu was pleased with herself in her heart though her expression remained neutral as she got up off the floor and handed the tea cup to the palace eunuch waiting upon her.


    The Emperor led the entire group of people over to pay respects to the Empress Dowager.


    Empress Dowager Zheng sat down in the main seat, still angry. She coolly gazed at the Empress: ¡°The way you are acting as a mother-in-law is very impressive. I think it is quite fascinating and would like to learn a thing or two. What do you say?¡±


    The Empress was very scared she had been rude and unreasonable to the Empress Dowager and hesitated: ¡°Daughter-in-law does not dare.¡±¡±


    The old dowager snorted: ¡°This old one sees that you actually quite dare.¡±


    Ruan Zhu secretly snickered. It has been said that since time immemorial, a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law would always be at odds, and this adage had been thoroughly acted out today in this family. Forget it, she would do something to preserve the peace this one time. She stepped forwards to the table in front to pour a cup of tea before returning to before the Empress Dowager and offering it with both hands: ¡°Imperial Grandmother, please have some tea to moisten your throat.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng had already scolded for a while and felt a bit thirsty: ¡°It is still my granddaughter-in-law that is considerate.¡± She took the offered cup and drained it in a gulp.


    The Emperor saw that his Empress-Mother¡¯s temper had cooled and had the servants present the meal. The entire group sat together and enjoyed the food. Afterwards, Empress Dowager Zheng started complaining: ¡°Having ridden on a boat for these past few days, this old one has become so idle, my bones are itching. This dowager does not care; Zhu¡¯er, girl, the day after tomorrow when we set sail again, I will board your ship.¡±


    The Emperor joined in on the conversation: ¡°If Empress-Mother feels too idle, we and the Empress can just accompany you to play mahjong.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zheng frowned: ¡°Mahjong is something that a small child plays with. This dowager wants to play ¡®The Joys¡¯ with my granddaughter-in-law.¡±


    ¡°What is ¡®The Joys¡¯?¡± The Emperor asked in astonishment.


    ¡°That is¡­¡­even if I said it you would not understand.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was speechless out of helplessness and embarrassment for a moment. During that time when they were still living in the capital, the Empress Dowager would run over when she had nothing else to do, causing her to often be hard-pressed to think of a trick to curry favor with the elder. She really couldn¡¯t think of anything else and just decided to draw from some of the practical events in ¡®The Sims.¡¯ But because she was then also worried that the game would pass onto Zhao Hai, she changed the name to ¡®The Joys.¡¯[a] A simple, thatched hut had been built in the garden and bedding, crockery, and all other sorts of daily necessities were placed inside. She had also instructed for some fish to be placed inside the pond so that they could reel them in with fishhooks, drill wood for fire, and then simmer some fish soup to drink.


    It was just like the primitive humans. They had played this until they were all in high spirits and in the end, Zong Zhi had also found it fascinating and joined them.


    Ruan Zhu had not expected Empress Dowager Zheng would have played until she became addicted and was still thinking of the game even now.


    Once the meal was over, the Emperor went to handle official business. After the rebellion of the Red Eyebrow army in the south, he had incessantly reflected upon himself for his previous negligence of the country¡¯s government. It was good that he had now recognized his mistakes and was able to reform himself as his work was much more diligent than before.


    Ruan Zhu followed her two husbands in returning to their residence. She first went to look at her children and picked up each twin in turn to breastfeed them. Zhi Xi caught sight of Zong Zhi and cheerfully giggled as he hugged his thigh: ¡°Third Father, ride horsey, ride horsey.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi bitterly sighed and carried little Zhi Xi out to ride horses.


    This was the first time Min Zhi had seen Ruan Zhu¡¯s soft and plump breasts. His eyes couldn¡¯t help but to stare while his throat became dry and his tongue continuously licked his lower lip. He waited for Ruan Zhu to finish feeding the twins and for her to place them on the bed. He then stretched out a hand towards her chest to gently caress it. As soon as his hand touched the softness, a ** limpness poured into his body. His cheeks flushed as if he had become drunk from wine, and he felt carefree yet also a little unbearable. Wanting to demand more, he also stuck his other hand on top.


    Ruan Zhu did not wish to do this in front of the children and pushed his hands aside before turning around and straightening her lapel.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, how about we head to our room¡­¡­¡± There was some of her milky scent on his hand and he couldn¡¯t resist putting his finger inside his mouth for a taste.


    ¡°It¡¯s broad daylight. Are you not afraid to lose face?¡± Ruan Zhu rolled her eyes at him. Hey mister, since you dared to blackmail me into marriage, then you better be prepared to suffer the cold treatment. ¡°Oh right, hand over Zhao Hai¡¯s letter.¡±


    The posthumous letter! He had almost forgotten about this thing: ¡°It¡¯s not on me. Return to the room with me and I¡¯ll give it to you.¡±


    Something good could come out of returning to their room? But the letter was more important. Ruan Zhu hugged her two babies and pressed kisses against them before calling their wet nurses over to take over. Immediately afterwards, she went to his courtyard which was precisely the bridal room from last night when they had gotten married.


    She had just stepped over the threshold when she suddenly felt her body was suspended in air as he had horizontally picked her up into his arms. In a few steps they reached the bed and she was placed onto it with him meaning to plant a kiss down.


    Ruan Zhu blocked his lips with her hand: ¡°Hand over the letter!¡±


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi could only get up, open up a secret compartment in the nightstand and hand over a rag covered with bloodstains.


    Ruan Zhu endured the unbearable smell and opened it for a look. She first stared blankly at it and then became enraged. What the hell kind of posthumous letter was this!? She had been deceived. Even if this rag had been exhibited on full display in a main street, there would be no one willing to look at it.


    The rag was entirely covered in undecipherable handwriting and scribbles. At least, that¡¯s what it would appear like to the people of this era. Zhao Hai was an incredibly big idiot who had not properly studied in the past life and after crossing over, was also a loser among losers. What was written in blood on the rag were simplified Chinese characters along with multiple incorrectly written ones. There were even some words that he didn¡¯t know how to write and had used pinyin as a substitute.


    I¡¯ve been had¡­¡­had had had¡­..It was just one simple letter that couldn¡¯t be read by any person in this world, with the exception of herself, yet it had sealed her marriage.


    Very good, Xuanyuan Min Zhi. There¡¯s no way on earth I¡¯ll believe you weren¡¯t aware of this. You deliberately played with me, didn¡¯t you?


    ¡°Your expression seems strange.¡± As Xuanyuan Min Zhi looked at his flustered wife, a bad premonition rose in his heart and he feigned calmness as he spoke.


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Ruan Zhu pushed down the fury in her mind and deeply breathed in a long breath that rather put her beautiful face on display. She then lightly released it: ¡°I¡¯m worried. My monthlies arrived this morning and we cannot sleep in the same room.¡±


    Monthlies! Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s brows tightly creased. He had long heard others say before that a woman¡¯s monthlies were incredibly troublesome and inconvenient. He was so worried he stood at attention: ¡°How long are monthlies?¡±


    Ruan Zhu restrained the rising of her eyebrows and from within her sorrowful expression, tactful words sounded out: ¡°That is hard to say. Sometimes it requires longer for some women, and sometimes it is shorter.¡±


    ¡°Then are yours long or short?¡± Hope gleamed in Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Long.¡±


    ¡°How long?¡±


    ¡°Roughly half a month, but it could also be one month. I can only know after everything is clean.¡±


    ¡°A month?¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi faced his wife. His bright, deeply embedded pupils that shined with brilliance and were like penetrating swords were currently full of doubt and confusion. He muttered: ¡°A month. Is it really that long?¡±


    ¡°It varies from person to person. I am one of those that are a little more special.¡± Ruan Zhu deadpanned and acted like a sincere and good child, not leaking a single bit of a guilty conscience from telling such a bold-faced lie. ¡°At night, I want to sleep alone. This is a habit that I¡¯ve developed over the years and I hope you can understand.¡±


    Ruan Zhu unhurriedly got up and right when Xuanyuan Min Zhi had yet to notice, a perfect smile appeared on her face. This was the result of offending her. Hmph! He can go eat himself! She could only deceive a man as inexperienced as he. If it was her other husbands, don¡¯t even mention lying to them as they had even clearly calculated out the length and days of her monthlies.


    On the next day, everyone boarded their respective ships that were moored at the docks, and the majestic sight of the over a thousand vessels formed by the imperial clan and the common people headed east.


    Besides having to coax her three children, an extra job had been handed to Ruan Zhu. It was precisely the task of accompanying the Empress Dowager in playing ¡®The Joys.¡¯ Fortunately, after the Empress Dowager had played enough, she would return to her own ship and the work was not too terribly exhausting.


    [a] In Chinese, The Sims translates to Ä£ÄâÈËÉú which is literally simulated life. RZ came up with the name ¿ìÀÖÈËÉú which is literally happy life. I thought ¡®The Joys¡¯ made more sense than ¡®The Haps¡¯ so there ya go.

 Chapter 88

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    When Yun Shi Yi received the news that his wife was returning home, he had immediately boarded a ship and followed the Lan River downstream. He anxiously waited every day, hoping that his beautiful woman would suddenly appear before his eyes. The longing that he felt increased with the passing of each night.


    On the day that he approached the Chang Jiang River, a thousand white sails emerged from the horizon, becoming more obvious as the distance between him and them shortened.


    His heartstrings immediately became taut as he stared unblinkingly at the scene before him.


    But right at this moment, emergency measures were imposed. A bailiff of the yamen sailed in a small boat, continuously going back and forth, as he drove the other vessels away, requesting them to make way for the Emperor¡¯s large fleet of ships.


    Yun Shi Yi was forced to land, but his eyes remained glued on the river as before.


    The first to appear was the squadron of ships belonging to Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s troops that served as bodyguards for the imperial clan. Their brocade banner fluttered in a majestic way that seized the eyes of every person. Yun Shi Yi saw a Xuanyuan Zong Zhi covered head to toe in shining silver armor standing at the bow of the ship. His heart shook for a moment as he hastily looked next to the man in search¡­¡­The result was disappointment. The figure of the person printed in his heart was clearly not here. But among the thousands of white sails, which vessel was she aboard?


    The feeling of wanting to meet her was unexpectedly that pressing¨Cto the point where he couldn¡¯t even wait a single moment.


    He raised his head towards the soaring mast beside him. To someone who practiced martial arts, this sort of height didn¡¯t mean anything. The elevating qinggong technique that he had learned before was much more difficult in comparison. Lifting the hem of his long gown, he secured it at his waist before gripping the mast with both hands and climbing up in an extremely nimble manner. There was an inner voice: Since he cannot find her, he would let her find him.


    It was as if Ruan Zhu had telepathy. The closer she was to her hometown, the more excited she became, and she so dearly wished Yun Shi Yi could appear in front of her at this moment in some random ship by the banks of the Lan River or perhaps among the commoners who had gathered to watch the bustle in the coastal area.


    Ruan Zhu stepped out of the ship¡¯s cabin. A vast crowd was on the riverbanks¨Cthey were all commoners who had come to watch the awe-inspiring Emperor. Various kinds of vessels were also stopped by the banks and each person had their head tilted to watch the crowd of ships go by.


    ¡°Ma, bird¡­¡­big bird fly fly¡­¡­¡± Little Zhi Xi pulled at his mother¡¯s skirt while his other hand pointed at another ship.


    ¡°What problems are you causing? Quickly, go find your uncle to play. Don¡¯t cause trouble here.¡± How could Ruan Zhu have the patience to deal with her son? She lifted a hand to call out to Yun Shi Wei: ¡°Second Cousin, come quickly to take your Yun family member away.¡±


    Zhi Xi bounced on his toes while pointing towards their own ship¡¯s mast and cutely babbled: ¡°Fly fly, me also want fly fly.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei strode over and picked up Zhi Xi: ¡°The mast is too tall and too dangerous for Zhi Xi to go up there. Wait until we have reached the shore and Uncle will take you to climb some trees.¡±


    Ruan Zhu searched in all four directions for a while but it only left a fleeting and nameless melancholy in her heart. She turned around, intending to head back inside the cabin, when she felt a burning gaze that made her feel incredibly uncomfortable. Her eyes roved around for the source when suddenly, the figure of a tall man standing atop a mast on a vessel several dozen meters away from her caught her entire attention.


    She rubbed her eyes. It was him, it was him¨Cthere was no way she could be wrong! It was the man who, from the very moment she crossed over, gave her infinite happiness with a heart full of gentle feelings and would always instantly console and encourage her every time she frowned.


    Ruan Zhu felt a wave of dizziness and then rushed towards the ship¡¯s railing, looking all the while at the Yun Shi Yi who was not too far off.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, I have something I want to ask you.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi had just chatted with his subordinates and happened to talk about matters between men and women. When his men had told him it was impossible for a woman¡¯s monthlies to be that long plus the fact that for the majority of women who were breastfeeding, their monthlies would not arrive too soon, that was when he realized he had been tricked.


    ¡°Stop the boat, I want to get off!¡± Ruan Zhu hit the sides of the boat with her hands.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, what¡¯s with you? What are you wanting to get off the boat for without any reason? I want to ask you, that¡­¡­that thing about your monthlies was false, right?¡±


    ¡°Hurry and stop the ship!¡± Ruan Zhu was impatient and lifted her arm to wave at Yun Shi Yi. Even though they were separated by several tens of meters, she could still feel the gaze that was packed deep with emotions. As for what Xuanyuan Min Zhi had said¨Cnone of it had entered her ears.


    ¡°Eh? It is Head Yun. My Heavens, Eldest Master has come to pick us up.¡± Nuan Chun carried a basin of laundry water to pour into Lan River and saw the man atop the mast on the banks of the river with a lift of his head: ¡°Eldest Miss, look, it¡¯s Eldest Son-in-law. I saw Eldest Master.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were filled with happiness. In a split second, her throat became choked from emotion and the rims of her eyes couldn¡¯t help but become moist. She hastily took Zhi Xi into her arms and lifted him up as high as she could for Yun Shi Yi to see: ¡°Zhi Xi, your Pa has come. Quickly look at the person up there¨Che¡¯s your father!¡±


    Yun Shi Wei had also seen his older brother and happily said: ¡°Spouse, don¡¯t be so rushed. I¡¯ll have someone halt the ship over there and it¡¯ll be done in just a moment.¡±


    ¡°En, hurry, hurry.¡±


    The ship finally reached the shore and Ruan Zhu rushed to climb aboard her Lord Husband¡¯s ship.


    Yun Shi Yi had also long come down from the mast. Seeing the incoming beautiful figure, he opened his arms wide to greet her: ¡°Wife, welcome home.¡±


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t care how many pairs of eyes were watching and ran over to throw herself into her husband¡¯s arms. It was only at this moment that she felt this place was so incredibly warm. She was locked inside those powerful arms, and just like how cottonwood fluff drift in the spring breeze, her body was completely relaxed and without any strength.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, I¡¯m back.¡±


    ¡°I know, Wife, I missed you so.¡± Yun Shi Yi saw the wife he had long-awaited and thirsted for and finally fulfilled his wish of holding the beautiful and soft figure in his arms¡­¡­The emptiness that had been present in his heart for a very long time was, at this moment, incomparably filled.


    Aboard the Prince of Qi¡¯s ship, Xuanyuan Min Zhi watched as the man and woman mutually held each other. He had not been married for long and hadn¡¯t yet been able to be intimate with his wife. Seeing his wife fall into another man¡¯s embrace, his heart immediately followed and he lifted his foot, intending to step onto the ship opposite his¡­¡­


    Yun Shi Wei had long guarded against the him that wanted to break up the married couple. He shouted towards the other ship: ¡°Xiao Feng, leave quickly; send the ship out.¡±


    Yun Feng was quick-witted and hastily instructed the boatmen to depart.


    After the boatmen received the news, the oars on the large ship firmly pushed and the hull slid out for over ten meters. The small ship was light and since it was being propelled downwards, the speed was very fast. Within a few breaths, the vessel was far away.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s wife was heading further and further away, and as he could not chase after her, he stomped his feet in anger.


    Inside the cabin of the ship, Yun Shi Yi had placed his wife atop the bed. His hand gently caressed her cheek, then gradually slid to her body. His movements were light, as cautiously and carefully as if he were handling a rare treasure, all of his actions filled with unlimited affection and love. But in contrast with his movements, his eyes were burning like a smoldering flame that could be ignited with a simple breeze. Lowering his head so that his lips covered that dark red mouth, he sucked on the fragrance found between her two lips, and the beauty of it all from amidst his memories suddenly became clear.


    ¡°Wife, Wife, you are still so beautiful.¡± That deep and husky voice was right by her ear and his faintly red eyes were filled with dense **. He removed the troublesome clothes that were in the way one by one, kissing the skin that was like snow before rubbing one tender plum and taking the other into his mouth.


    ¡°En¡­¡­Eldest Cousin¡­¡­¡± She pushed her chest towards him. Being nibbled by him sometimes roughly and sometimes gently, an electric current-like feeling passed through her body. Both her arms wrapped around his neck, her fingers interlaced so that his head was locked against her.


    He separated his wife¡¯s slender and long legs and stared hungrily at the dripping wet flower petals¡­¡­His eyes immediately hazing over, he used his finger to separate the petals, exposing the pink color underneath that was perfect and without any blemishes.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, quickly come inside¡­¡­Zhu¡¯er needs you¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu had been teased by him until she couldn¡¯t bear it any longer and she lowly moaned out her demands.


    ¡°Wife, you are so beautiful.¡± Yun Shi Yi held his swollen stiff member as he entered. He finally felt that tightness in the velvet tunnel that made it feel as if his soul had separated from his body, and the warm, exquisite feeling attacked what was left of his rationality. He could no longer endure and violently twitched as he impatiently thrusted his hips.


    The ship¡¯s cabin was filled with rough and romantic gasps and moans that mixed with the smell of sweat¡­¡­Two people finally merged into one, making it so it was impossible to distinguish one from the other.


    The husband and wife set free their feelings amidst the torrential flood, their hands trembling as they only hugged each other afterwards.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, how have you fared this past year?¡±


    ¡°When we had just arrived in Lan Zhou, I had to work, and this was the time when the famine was the most severe. Fortunately, I had heeded the advice you gave while we were in the south to stockpile foodstuffs and used that to stabilize the price of grain, preventing many commoners from starving.¡±


    ¡°I have heard Second Cousin mention that you are now considered the great benefactor to the commoners of Lan Zhou, and no matter where you go, you will be well-received.¡±


    ¡°Being revered and the focus of too many people is meaningless as whoever meets me must now always be polite and respectful. I would much rather prefer to lead a simple life as before.¡± Yun Shi Yi thought of all that had occurred in this past year and lamented: ¡°At that time, I had just returned to Lan Zhou but still had to resolve the issues of food. Then not long after, Maternal Uncle received the imperial decree to buy horses in Mongolia and dropped a large pile of work for me to handle. During that time, I nearly went mad from missing you so much but luckily, I could pass the time with all the work that had to be done. Ai, I was truly too busy and frequently only had time to miss you when I entered my dreams very late at night¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°I also missed you, incredibly missed you¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu rested her head on her husband¡¯s arm, feeling incomparably relaxed. This man that was like a mountain always made her feel completely at ease.


    ¡°Wife, I¡¯ve followed what we¡¯ve discussed before and built a very large courtyard on the banks of the Lan River. With pavilions and kiosks, curved paths that lead one around the magnificent scenery, there¡¯s also the taihu rocks you mentioned before in your letters that I had transported from Jiang Nan. If we all go inside the pavilion, we can see an integration of water and mountains. Nothing could be more beautiful¨Cit is comparable to paradise on earth.¡±


    Ruan Zhu had received news while she was in the capital that Yun Shi Yi was preparing to build a new residence in Lan Zhou. Thus, she had personally and carefully drawn up a blueprint and also wrote out what her ideal garden was before handing it to the relay station to send to Lan Zhou. When Yun Shi Yi received letter, he had been amazed at his wife¡¯s concepts and thrown his entire enthusiasm towards its construction.


    ¡°The new residence is surely very beautiful. I¡¯m already a little impatient to move in.¡±


    ¡°But of course. I can guarantee the new residence is the first in all of Tian Chu to have the most idyllic and charming courtyard. Ours and the children¡¯s rooms were all designed according to your plan, using a lot of warm color tones¡­¡­¡± This term was one that his wife had written before in her letters and he had thought it was very original: ¡°Right, how is Zhi Xi?¡±


    ¡°Our child is now sixteen months old. This child is very wild; at ten months, he could walk; before he turned one, he could call ¡®Ma.¡¯ Unfortunately, you weren¡¯t around¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°I really shouldn¡¯t have left you at that time.¡± Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes were filled with regret. They had been separated for too long; though he was holding his beloved woman in his arms, a part of him was convinced it was just a dream. He deeply sighed with sorrow: ¡°How many dreams have I had, where I held you like this and you disappeared after I woke?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, I¡¯ll never leave you again.¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were filled with a layer of mist: ¡°You are my number one and also the most important one¡­¡­¡± From him, she had continuously felt the love of a brother and of a father, allowing her to feel mentally and physically warm.


    ¡°Being able to hear my wife say this, this husband is content.¡± The Heavens knew how worried he was¨Canxious that their long separation would have caused her feelings towards him to fade. Sticking himself against her lips, he kissed her for a long moment, his eyes full of warmth and affection: ¡°Does Wife still want more?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes brimmed with love and she nodded with a smile on her face.


    Yun Shi Yi changed her position and pressed her down¡­¡­


    The small ship continuously floated downstream and finally turned around three days later. By the time they eventually reached Lan Zhou, it was already ten days after. The husband and wife pair had just landed on the banks when they unexpectedly met Nuan Chun and received the news that Yun Shi Wei had led their entire group to the new courtyard situated on the banks of Lan River.

 Chapter 89

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    The new residence¡¯s name was ¡®Guan Ju Villa,¡¯ taken from the first line in a poem in the Book of Songs¨C¡®Guan guan¡¯ cry the ospreys / on the islet in the river. With regards to this name, it was something that Yun Shi Yi had come up with after thinking for a very long time, and it signified his unflinching love towards his wife.[a]


    Guan Ju Villa occupied twenty thousand square meters and the main room had a very embarrassing name of Yi Zhu Cottage[b]; it was the married couple¡¯s joint residence. No matter how noble and high the two princes¡¯ statuses were, they could not snatch the principal husband¡¯s limelight and Yun Shi Yi was of course unwilling to let others reside in the main courtyard.


    When the gatekeeper on duty saw his masters had returned, he excitedly went inside to report. The young couple had yet to step inside the reception pavilion when they saw a large group of people heading towards them from inside. In the front were the two Yun elders, with Master Yun holding his first grandson¨CYun Zhi Xi¨Cin his arms while beaming with a kind of joy.


    Behind them was Xuanyuan Min Zhi and Ruan Yu. However, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi and Yun Shi Wei were not present. They were presumably at their posts and had not yet returned.


    Ruan Zhu performed the rites towards the two elders and wished for the good health of the father and mother pair. Zhi Xi opened up his small hands, his face full of grievance, as he complained: ¡°Ma, huggy¡­¡­¡± as if his mother abandoning him for over ten days was a large crime.


    Ruan Zhu took her child and pointed towards Yun Shi Yi: ¡°Listen well Zhi Xi, this is your Pa, quickly call him Papa.¡± She was actually very uncertain as to whether or not her child would be able to recognize his own father, but in fact, her worries were superfluous. The appearances of the two Yun brothers were similar and the only difference between the two was their personalities. But how could Zhi Xi understand that? He only felt that Yun Shi Yi was incredibly familiar.


    ¡°Papa!¡± A crisp voice called out with not a single bit of unfamiliarity.


    ¡°Son, my son.¡± Yun Shi Yi took his son into his arms and kissed his small cheeks. A kind of dense emotion arising from his bones echoed through his heart, and he became emotionally moved from happiness, so joyful his eyes narrowed into lines.


    Master Yun happily beamed: ¡°It is good that you were able to return as Zhi Xi has noisily asked for his mother every day. Zhu¡¯er, it is good that you came back.¡±


    Madam Yun saw her son¡¯s family had reunited and her heart also became full of contentment: ¡°Zhi Xi looks just like his father. When he was younger, he was also loved by all like this.¡±


    ¡°Wife, when Mother heard you were returning, she traveled a month in advance from Yun manor to wait here.¡±


    Really? Didn¡¯t they all say that a mother favored her son because her standing increased because of him? She thought that perhaps the two elders cared more about Zhi Xi, right?


    When it was time to eat the meal, Ruan Zhu became uncomfortable from Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s icy eyes that continuously bore holes into her as if she had committed an excessively large crime. It caused her to not even be in the mood to eat. Honestly, it wasn¡¯t easy to be the wife to four men and wanting to remain impartial was even more challenging. What did she do? Hadn¡¯t she successfully fooled him the day after they had gotten married?


    After the meal, the two elders brought Zhi Xi back into their own courtyard, setting aside time for the children to fool around.


    Ruan Zhu had someone bring over the twins. She hadn¡¯t expected the boy and girl pair to have learned how to sit in the half month that she was gone. Bo Yu was thin and relatively nimble and could sit for very long periods of time. Bo Ya was a little chubbier. Becoming tired after sitting for a little while, she fell over on side to rest.


    Ruan Zhu supported Bo Ya in sitting up straight but when she released her hands, the child flopped back down again. ¡°Lazy kid.¡± She mock-scolded her then lifted her daughter up again in a seated position. Bo Ya flattened her small mouth and moved it in a manner like she was about to cry.


    ¡°Refrain from bullying my daughter, all right?¡±


    When Xuanyuan Zong Zhi returned from morning court, he heard the people at the gate mentioning his wife had returned and immediately headed towards Yi Zhu Cottage. He arrived just in time to see this scene. Becoming so distressed, he stepped over to take his daughter into his arms as he reprimanded his wife:


    ¡°Wife, what is the matter with you? You had just returned yet cheekily looked for trouble. Imperial Physician Zhang had said small children are not willing to sit for long periods of time because their bones are soft but that it will be better after they have gotten used to it.¡±


    Bones being soft¨Cisn¡¯t that simply because of calcium deficiency? Bo Ya should be given calcium supplements, but how should she bring this up with him, hmm? There was no phrase such as ¡®calcium deficiency¡¯ in this era.


    A calcium deficiency should be patched with sunshine and exercise. It was possible to absorb nutrients from food and as taking in calcium from milk was easily done, it was best to drink a cup of milk every day. ¡°I see that this child is lacking exercise. Now that the weather is nice and warm, we should carry her out to soak in the sun every day. A six-month old toddler shouldn¡¯t drink only a mother¡¯s milk and should eat some easily digestible food such as eggs, soup, and other things like that. One shouldn¡¯t spoil a child too much when raising them. The stricter their upbringing, the healthier they will be. Zhi Xi was also brought up like this at that time.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi was not too pleased: ¡°I am not opposed to nonchalantly raising sons but daughters must be pampered.¡±


    Among the people, there was a saying¨Cbe nonchalant with boys, be gentle with girls. Sons grew up in adversity and only after they had experienced trials and tribulations would they then have the ability to establish themselves in society. Being nonchalant and letting them forge their own path would result in strength and resoluteness. Pampering a daughter would mold her into being magnanimous, graceful, and adaptable. In the future, she would become even more refined and have an even more tasteful life.


    ¡°When Bo Ya is two or three years old, I will teach her the guqin and the first tune will be ¡®Plum Blossoms Blooming Thrice,¡¯ the second song will be ¡®Flowing Water,¡¯ the third song will be ¡®Guang Ling San¡¯¡­¡­¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi unhurriedly spoke of his parenting ideas and after he finished talking about his daughter, he moved on to his son: ¡°Bo Yu must become well-rounded in both civil and military matters. I will spend an enormous sum to invite a grand scholar from the Imperial Hanlin Academy to be his master. As for martial arts, we can select a few experts from the country to teach our son Chinese boxing and the way of the sword. Oh yes, would you like for Zhi Xi to learn alongside him?¡± For a long while, he had repeatedly been called ¡®Papa¡¯ by Zhi Xi and had long been affectionate towards the child.


    Yun Shi Yi was sitting in front of the window, arranging his own accounts book as his work had accumulated into a large pile after he had been gone for over ten days. Hearing Zong Zhi bring up Zhi Xi, he lifted his head to interject: ¡°I do not have any interest in my son becoming an official. In the future, he must inherit my Yun clan¡¯s property and become a talented and able merchant.¡±


    Ruan Zhu only wanted her children to grow up healthily and did not care too much about whether they were scholarly geniuses or exceptional martial artists. Towards Zong Zhi¡¯s way of parenting, she truly had a headache: ¡°Big Brother Lu, I think you are mistreating the children.¡±


    ¡°We were been raised like this since small. Is there anything wrong with this method?¡± Xuanyuan Zong Zhi responded in astonishment.


    During their childhood, if they miswrote a word, they would then be beaten by their master with a wooden plank. Min Zhi had refused to comply and used force against their master in anger. When Emperor-Father found out, he had punished him to kneel in the ancestral hall. It was also at that time that the animosity between him and Min Zhi began as every time after their master had finished praising him, he would then subsequently criticize Min Zhi for a spell.


    Hatred had risen in Min Zhi¡¯s heart. Using an incapacitating agent to knock him out, his brother had then drove a carriage out of the palace and thrown him onto the doorstep of a child trafficker. Thinking to here, Zong Zhi turned his head to glance at Min Zhi.


    The other didn¡¯t even look at Zong Zhi, his face a sheet of ice as he sat in the taishi chair, not saying a single sentence.


    Ruan Zhu had also taken note of Min Zhi. They had been married for a while now, but they still hadn¡¯t gone through with their wedding night, right? There was a tiny hint of apology in her heart. She snuck a few looks at her several husbands in the room. With the exception of Yun Shi Wei who was still in the barracks and had yet to return, the remaining three were all present. How should the issue of her sleeping arrangement tonight be settled?


    Zong Zhi had coaxed Bo Ya to sleep then handed her over to the wet nurse to bring to the children¡¯s room. Bo Yu was still full of energy¨Csometimes sitting, sometimes turning over, stuffing the corner of the bedding in his mouth, having a grand old time. This little guy was extremely worry-free; after he had played enough, he would then sleep. There was basically no need to coax him.


    Ruan Zhu was still thinking about the issue of sleep and ventured rather deviously: ¡°Since the family is now together, what does everyone think of going by the customs and scheduling days?¡± As soon as her words fell, all three of her husbands looked over; even Yun Shi Yi put down his accounts book.


    ¡°Then what about, every person has five days?¡± Zong Zhi glanced at the other two: ¡°We will go in order so Eldest Head Yun is first.¡±


    Min Zhi¡¯s face immediately blackened. He still hadn¡¯t had his wedding night! Don¡¯t tell him he still had to wait fifteen days?


    ¡°Second Young Master Yun has returned and said he would come over after he had bathed.¡± Nuan Chun walked in with a basin of hot water for his master to soak her feet in. The pair of soft and beautiful small feet were placed inside and all of the men present fixed their eyes on them. Min Zhi swallowed his saliva and his ice-cold eyes became scorching hot in this moment.


    An entire group of lechers! Ruan Zhu silently cursed. Having transmigrated for over two years now, she had ooxx¡¯d with multiple men innumerable times and had long discarded her previous bashfulness. If they liked to watch, they could watch!


    Bo Yu had finally played until he was tired and fell fast asleep not long after he laid down on the bed. He was then carried out by his wet nurse.


    Ruan Zhu allowed Nuan Chun to finish washing her feet and then, in the most elegant manner possible, changed into a set of lightweight and flowy black silk pajamas in front of her several husbands. She had read before in an online that for a woman to successfully capture her husband¡¯s thoughts, she must be as noble as an angel in ordinary times and as lascivious as a devil in bed.


    This was the first time Xuanyuan Min Zhi had seen his wife¡¯s snow-like flesh. His gaze was fixed on her while his breathing became rushed, and his heart rapidly thumped as if it was about to jump out of his chest.


    Although the two other males also found their emotions difficult to bear, they were still experienced and could still endure it. Yun Shi Yi saw Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s eyes: ¡°I think tonight should just be given to Min Zhi!¡± Ever since he heard his wife had played a trick in the bridal room on Xuanyuan Number Four, he had felt utterly sympathetic.


    ¡°Wife, you have just returned today so properly retire for the night. Tomorrow, this husband will take you on a tour of our Guan Ju Villa.¡±


    After Yun Shi Yi finished saying that, he left Yi Zhu Cottage with Zong Zhi.


    The room became quiet all of a sudden, and one male and one female mutually looked at each other.


    Ruan Zhu thought in her heart that the other was still a beginner and the matter of intercourse must be initiated by her. She had been around the block and did not find there was anything to be embarrassed about. Throwing off the lightweight black silk pajamas she had just put on, she moved down from the bed and stepped on the pure white rug to stop before him.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi saw her pair of lovely breasts swaying with each of her steps and his eyes were immediately glued on them. Waiting until she had approached, he then stretched out both hands to feel them. The soft flesh sunk between his fingers. Min Zhi¡¯s head blanked except for a single droning note and he lowered his head to kiss her mouth.


    His kissing technique was sloppy and Ruan Zhu slowly took the initiative, opening their mouths to suck on his tongue while her hands continuously removed him of his spacious clothes. The summer clothes were thin and only a few seconds were needed to completely strip him. Lowering her head for a look, she inevitably became startled as she hadn¡¯t imagined that his little brother was this inconceivably huge.


    Kneeling down, she gripped him with one of her small hands and lightly stroked. To her surprise, after a few of her movements, the member swelled even more. She was a little worried. Such a gigantic size¨Cshe didn¡¯t know if she was able to tolerate it? She raised her head to peer at him. She had already tormented him for this long and ought to compensate, letting him properly enjoy the thrill of love.


    She lowered her head, opening her mouth to take him in.


    ¡°AHH!¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi softly trembled and gently moved inside her mouth. The movement was something innate within primates and there was no need for anyone to teach him this.

 Chapter 90

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    ʱ³½ | sichen |time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Her mouth was just like fine velvet, letting him feel a pleasure that could cause him to die at any moment. Countless groans emitted from his mouth and his underbelly grew hotter and hotter as if it had been seized by a living flame. He couldn¡¯t help but to straighten his back. Grabbing her head, he thrust back and forth. Amidst his rapid breaths, the fire in his underbelly finally found an exit and violently surged out.


    For the first time in his life, Xuanyuan Min Zhi finally tasted the flavor of love. Immediately letting out a pleasured yell, he hugged her head and maintained this position for a very long time. It was only after he felt the resistance of the woman kneeling on the ground that he finally extracted himself.


    ¡°So good.¡± His expression incomparably pleased, he exhaled a long breath and grabbed an article of clothing on the side to wipe her face.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s sore mouth ached and her entire body was limp. Fortunately, she had become accustomed to doing this sort of thing, but he was too terrifyingly big and made it hard for her to manage. Her body suddenly became light¨CXuanyuan Min Zhi had lifted her by her waist and in the next moment, secured her lips.


    While he kissed her, his eyes roamed, and upon chancing on the two pink buds on her chest, his lips moved downwards and sucked on one of them. Gently inhaling, a sweet and incomparably fragrant milk entered his mouth. Eyes full of love, he swallowed it all and seemed to have become addicted, as after he had finished eating from one side, he then moved on to the next.


    She was still clutching onto his head, continuously mewling out nn¡®s and ahh¡®s in response.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi horizontally carried his beloved woman while he stood in the middle of the room, plundering the beauty that was considered his.


    Why were men always so fond of doing this? She had left her children for over ten days and no longer provided any milk for her children. If it wasn¡¯t for being sucked here and there by Yun Shi Yi, her milk would have normally already stopped. But towards her husbands¡¯ actions, she felt joy from the bottom of her heart as it proved their relationship was like one of conjoined people, where they blended into each other.


    She extended an arm to hug his head. Feeling his hairpin, she pulled it out, and the man¡¯s long pitch-black hair draped down¡­¡­His original cocky appearance now had a bit of a wild and sexy charm.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi carried her and headed towards the large bed. This was an extremely wide bed made from red sandalwood, not one of those frame beds. Yun Shi Yi had followed his wife¡¯s suggestions in her letters¨Che had found a famous artisan to create a spring mattress and had a double phoenix and sunrise design carved around it; their bed was covered with a never-before-seen mattress pad that was entirely new to this era. Made from a thick layer of natural sponges with medicinal properties, the mattress pad was then covered with cloud silk brocade embroidered with crimson tree peonies. When one laid on top of it, it was incomparably soft.


    Min Zhi placed her on top of the bed. After they had married, he had fantasized countless times of truly having her so now that he was facing the clean and dainty body, there was still a part of him that found it unreal, as if he was in a dream. He leaned over her, his large hands rubbing all over her body, bringing about a sort of limpness to both parties. The female¡¯s body became warmer and warmer, encroaching pink, with a fascinating sheen underneath the candlelight.


    He pulled apart her legs, his fingers trembling as he gently touched and pushed them aside, then lowered his head and kissed. A liquid that was not inferior to the sweet milk from her chest entered his mouth and brain, and in a flash, his eyes became hazy, and he couldn¡¯t resist doubling his efforts for another sample.


    ¡°En¡­¡­Ahh!¡­¡­¡± What was sent to her were pain and itchiness but also an extraordinary comfortable feeling. Incessant, delicate mews sprinkled out of Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi lifted his head, then used his own long-swollen member to prod at the entrance before pushing inside so that two became one.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s face turned white. Being worried that he was too big wasn¡¯t unreasonable: ¡°You don¡¯t have any experience, so lie down and let me be on top¡­¡­¡± She was afraid his technique was too poor and would bruise her.


    ¡°All right!¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi sprawled on his back in the bed like a lamb waiting to be slaughtered, his scorching eyes on his wife.


    Ruan Zhu straddled his body. Using her hand in support, she then positioned herself over him and sat down. But it had only entered her halfway when her face twisted in pain¨Cit had gotten stuck and she didn¡¯t dare to move any further. Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s face was full of anxiety; being so tightly wrapped up in her, he was at the peak of pleasure, but seeing her having a hard time, he really didn¡¯t dare to carelessly move.


    Ruan Zhu pulled one of his large hands to her sensitive place: ¡°Lord, there is a small bead here. Gently rub there and it¡¯ll stop hurting after a while. Once I feel good, I can do that with you.¡±


    He listened to her words and he placed both hands atop it, gently rubbing. Raising his head, he gave her another kiss, his teeth nipping and nibbling her, bringing about an unfolding pleasure.


    ¡°En¡­¡­okay¡­¡­I can move a little now. Lord, don¡¯t move, just let me¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu slowly moved up and down, causing him to enter her a little more, but he had already reached her depths and even half an inch could not be entered further. The place where she was connected with him caused waves of limp pleasure to course through her and soft moans spilled from her mouth.


    ¡°Wife¡¯s voice is really pleasant to listen to. Louder, I like hearing you.¡± His two hands softly fondled her body from top to bottom, teasing and playing.


    ¡°Okay, since you like to hear it, I¡¯ll just scream¡­¡­nnAHH!!¡­¡­¡± She amplified her voice and felt incredibly excited. As she gradually adapted to him, she then increased the speed of her movements. Her insides became more and more itchy; the pain and soreness turned into pleasure and arousal; and an electric current flowed unrestrained through every single one of her pores. ¡°AHH!¡­¡­¡± She screamed in succession as her entire body shuddered and she fell forwards, lying limp on top of him.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was impatient. Hugging her with both arms, he suddenly flipped them around and pressed her down¡­¡­Initially, he didn¡¯t dare to be too reckless, but seeing that she didn¡¯t put up too much of a resistance, he gradually sped up¡­¡­


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, you are mine now.¡± He growled and released inside her. Now they were truly a married couple.


    Men who had tasted love could not be restrained. Thus, she was tossed through the entire night and fell asleep sometime in the middle of it all while they were still copulating¡­¡­


    As to how many times she had been tossed by him, she was also unclear. Even later when she asked Xuanyuan Min Zhi, he only smirked and shook his head.


    With the arrival of early morning, Nuan Chun entered with a basin of water. Xuanyuan Min Zhi had long been awake and his mind was energetic and refreshed. Ruan Zhu flipped over and fell asleep again. Min Zhi sent a ¡®shhh¡® over to Nuan Chun and gestured with his hand for the latter to leave.


    If it was a normal day, he would have already been outside practicing his sword and boxing, but he only wanted to look after her today. Sorrow filled his heart¨Cwhen it became nighttime, would she still be considered his? Yun Shi Yi had only said their wife could stay with him for one night. What should he do if she was snatched away?


    Thinking about how they had performed bedroom activities for only one night and now had to separate, he felt quite upset.


    But his fears were unfounded. As the most senior rank, Yun Shi Yi was very generous, yielding the privilege of being the first to have their scheduled five days to Xuanyuan Min Zhi. Thus, Min Zhi continued to accompany their wife for the next four days. Fortunately, he still had a bit of a conscience and knew that his wife couldn¡¯t endure it, so he was not too excessive and only asked for a few extra rounds on the fourth day.


    Then afterwards was Yun Shi Yi, Yun Shi Wei, Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡­¡­


    The days slipped by one at a time, and Yun Shi Wei¡¯s wish of being able to take his five hundred personally trained comrades to the battlefield was fulfilled, and he started a career of becoming a well-qualified soldier.


    The arrival of autumn was followed by the return of the merchants that Ruan Zi Xu had led to Mongolia with the task of buying horses. They brought with them their haul of several thousand warhorses. These merchants had been afraid the Mongolians would be opposed to their potential strength and detain them, thus they intentionally detoured around Korea to return to their home country. Unfortunately, Ruan Zi Xu had not followed them in returning. They said he had wanted to take the opportunity while his body was still young to wander even further west, because the far west had Persia and Tazi and their horses were of even higher quality. He hoped to be able to bring one back with him.


    Ruan Zhu lived the days very leisurely. If she had nothing to do, she would take the children out, plant flowers and other vegetation. She had spent money to collect all sorts of seeds and had the servants open up a large field on the shore of the Lan River. Using her words, it was called a ¡®high-tech experimental field.¡¯


    She desired to use her own two hands and knowledge to develop the best crop seeds of this era, allowing every single person to be able to afford rice and making it so no one would ever die of starvation again.


    Close to Guan Ju Villa was a large plum blossom forest that caused ten li to be filled with its fragrance when the flowers bloomed. There had already been quite a few madams that wanted to take the plum blossom forest for their own, but their proposals did not pass in the yamen. The plum forest blossom had already existed for several hundred years and was a major landscape and attraction in Lan Zhou that was considered the riches of all who admired the beauty of the plum blossoms.


    When it was time for the winter flowers to bloom, the people that came to the plum blossom forest were exceptionally many, with the majority of them being literary scholars or lovers who had arranged to meet at this spot.


    The several husbands all had their own work, and even the idle Prince, Xuanyuan Min Zhi, had been meticulously sent by his Emperor-Father to Hong Lu Temple to be in charge of welcoming and entertaining foreign envoys. Zong Zhi had said before that one could not frivolously stay at home as they would become wastes after a while. Although going to Hong Lu Temple was still a leisurely job, there were broad social and communication circles so this move was rather good.


    The twins were still small so they could not be carried out during the harsh and cold winter, but Zhi Xi could run and jump. As a result of being taught by his several fathers to be wild, none of the neighbors¡¯ children of the same age could beat him. Ruan Zhu was worried he would be difficult to discipline and confined him inside the study every day to recite verses for half a sichen. Originally, it was to try and make things difficult for him but who would have thought that after a few days, over a dozen quatrains had been completely recited and flew right off his tongue? A two-year old toddler¨Cthis was too ridiculous, right?!


    On this day, the weather was slightly warmer and Ruan Zhu¡¯s spirits rose along with it, taking everyone to the plum blossom forest to have a barbecue. In actuality, there weren¡¯t that many people present. Her husbands weren¡¯t home and there was only Ruan Yu, who led Zhi Xi, and also Nuan Chun. As for the two Yun elders, they had long gone back to the Yun manor, and because it was winter, she didn¡¯t dare to randomly take the twins out as she wished.


    Mutton, chicken, venison, catfish, prawns, crabs, napa cabbage, Chinese mustard, cucumbers, spinach¡­¡­a diverse spread. Charcoal was burned in a brazier underneath an old plum blossom tree. To Nuan Chun, this task was so familiar, he could do it with one hand tied behind his back. When they had fled from the southern border all the way up north, they had frequently ate barbecue when out in the wilderness.


    Actually, it was not that easy to eat vegetables during this season. Her hubby Zong Zhi¡¯s Hua Nong Ying Glass Workshop had earned quite a lot of money and had also opened up a branch in Lan Zhou.


    Ruan Zhu had thought about glasshouses and had people build one, where she had cultivated plants and vegetables inside. It made it so that, during the severe winter, the greens that other families weren¡¯t able to eat were considered trivial and common foods in her household. To celebrate the Winter Solstice Festival, she had sent over several large carriages full of vegetables to the imperial palace the day before yesterday, and in his delight, the Emperor had sent down an imperial edict to give her a great commendation and called for an increase in planting so that the common people could also eat it.


    Yun Shi Yi had then seen a business opportunity in that and together with a wealthy merchant from the capital, had thrown in a very large sum of money so that there were currently several dozen glasshouses under construction.


    Ruan Zhu slowly fed Zhi Xi pieces of a grilled, small yellow croaker. This kind of fish had few bones and was suitable for children. Plus, it was delicious.


    It was a pity that it was missing chili peppers. Everyone said chili peppers grew in the jungles and forests of the Americas, but that was not completely correct. According to what others had later discovered, there was an extremely spicy chili pepper in Yun Nan province. India also had some, and it was also the world¡¯s spiciest variety. But the ancient people were skeptical towards many varieties of vegetables. How should she say this¨Cwas the one who first ate crab a brave person? She thought about it. In a few days, she¡¯ll have some people bring back some chili pepper seeds for her to plant.


    There was a large crowd of people who had come to the plum tree forest to play and the ones who passed by their spot were all amazed that this family were able to eat lush and fresh green vegetables. They all inevitably stopped for a second glance.


    ¡°Eh, aren¡¯t you Younger Sister Ruan?¡±


    Ruan Zhu heard someone call out thus and turned her head to see a woman wearing old-fashioned clothing leading a man. They seemed to be married. The woman looked over with her entire face screaming ¡®I recognize you.¡¯


    But Ruan Zhu only felt that the woman was a little familiar and didn¡¯t have any impression of where she had met her before. She couldn¡¯t be blamed¨Cif the other didn¡¯t make a lasting impression, she was too lazy to remember them. Thinking it over in puzzlement, she still couldn¡¯t find anything in her memories that had to do with this specific person. Putting down Zhi Xi, she let him go play by himself and gave a rather embarrassed smile: ¡°En, it¡¯s me. You¡¯ve been well?¡±


    The woman¡¯s expression was currently fretful and she boldly sat down on the small stool next to Nuan Chun. Not even speaking out a greeting, she picked up a mutton skewer and wolfed it down: ¡°Oh, delicious! Lord, you should also have one.¡± Picking up another skewer, she handed it to the man behind her.


    Nuan Chun backed away from her a little out of revulsion. It was fine that this vulgar woman ate his family¡¯s things, but the most hateful thing was that she called his family¡¯s miss ¡®Younger Sister Ruan.¡¯ Who was she to do so?


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t look down on the small city residents, haha, they were all hard-working people and she herself had only become a rich person since a few days ago. The woman was a little more coarse but she was a bit more pleasing to the eye when compared with the majority of the sinister wealthy.


    ¡°Having experienced the rebellion of the Red Eyebrow army along with the drought that comes to Tian Chu once every hundred years and last year¡¯s floods, the common people can¡¯t even afford to eat rice and many of them have starved to death, let alone buying chastity belts. Ai, Younger Sister Ruan is still neat and beautiful these days while I am still one of the poor.¡±


    Selling chastity belts! Ruan Zhu remembered now. At that time, she had even bought three of them at her store. But what was this person called? It was a very tacky name and had something to do with a flower. Mei Hua? No. Dou Hua? Also wrong¡­¡­Nuan Chun saw that his Miss¡¯s eyes were filled with confusion and knew that her chronic illness had flared again. He whispered a reminder: ¡°It is Yu Lian Hua.¡±[a]


    Yu Lian Hua. It was precisely this name! The eldest daughter of Ming Xiang Cui Yu¡¯s Manager Yu.


    ¡°Have there been many that starved to death in Lan Zhou? I was recently elsewhere and am actually not that clear.¡± How could Ruan Zhu not be clear, hmm? Don¡¯t mention Lan Zhou, the entire country of Tian Chu had gone through such a large disaster and even the capital that was underneath the Son of Heaven¡¯s foot transported corpses outside the city walls day in and day out, let alone elsewhere.


    Ruan Yu was a genuine aristocrat of Tian Chu and was extremely vexed by this uncouth commoner. What made her especially angry was that Yu Lian Hua kept calling out ¡®Younger Sister.¡¯ Because she was someone her elder sister recognized, it was not good to show her temper, so she led Zhi Xi elsewhere to play.


    During this period, vegetables were considered rare products and it was possible even the wealthy couldn¡¯t buy any. But actually, who knows how many centuries Yu Lian Hua hadn¡¯t been able to eat meat, for not a quarter of an hour later, half of the skewers Nuan Chun had finished grilling had entered her stomach.


    Nuan Chun became angry at the sight and went to simply grill vegetables.


    Towards food, Yu Lian Hua was not too picky. As long as it was something that could be eaten, it would be thrown into her stomach. Stretching her hand to pick up the half-grilled vegetable skewer, she talked while she chewed: ¡°So Sister actually went elsewhere. I guess there¡¯s lots of things that you don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Please continue.¡± Many of the happenings in Lan Zhou that Ruan Zhu knew of came from what Yun Shi Yi had written of in his letters. Regarding the act of steadying the grain prices in Lan Zhou and saving a good deal of commoners¡¯ lives, that had came from Yun Shi Wei.


    Yu Lian Hua stuffed a skewer full of grilled eggplants down her belly and then belched: ¡°Let¡¯s not talk first about how many trials and tribulations this city faced, how many people have died, or who it was that took out foodstuffs to save everyone¡¯s lives. Let¡¯s not care about those. Instead, does Younger Sister still remember Mister Liu?¡±


    ¡°Which Mister Liu?¡±


    ¡°Precisely the peerless beauty Liu Fei Xu. You wouldn¡¯t have thought of him right?¡± Yu Lian Hua suddenly whispered mysteriously: ¡°I heard he is precisely the flower thief whose wanted poster and bounty has been hanging at the city¡¯s entrance for a very long time.¡±


    The drawing of the flower thief at the city¡¯s entrance was basically fake as only a few had ever seen the actual person¡¯s appearance before. Reportedly, he always donned a mask when committing the crimes.


    ¡°I do not acknowledge Liu Ruins as being a peerless beauty.¡± Ruan Zhu smiled indifferently. Randomly choosing from among her husbands, which one of them was not so exceptional as to make others revere them? But to hear that Peacock Liu was actually the flower thief, she was taken aback.


    ¡°How could that be? He is the noble son of a wealthy family and Ming Xiang Cui Yu¡¯s young master.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true. When he went to pick flowers, he was too careless and made a sound. The lady¡¯s parents caught him red-handed.¡± Yu Lian Hua lowered her voice: ¡°You definitely can¡¯t spread this out. If others were to know that I spread this out, I¡¯ll be finished.¡±


    ¡°How are you so certain Liu Fei Xu is the flower thief?¡±


    ¡°The lady¡¯s parents have bought jewelry before at Ming Xiang Cui Yu and met Mister Liu. When they discovered it was him, they had him bound up and sent to the yamen before day even broke. However, after he entered the doors of the prefectural magistrate it became as silent as stone and the sea as the prefectural magistrate squashed down the news. I heard that the prefectural magistrate¡¯s madam and Mister Liu have an affair and he frequently squeezes into the prefectural magistrate¡¯s large bed in the middle of the night, knocking the magistrate unconscious before going at it with the madam.¡±


    This prefectural magistrate truly had the worst of luck. Once a man reached his situation, he lived without the least bit of dignity. An image of the silly prefectural magistrate piteously weeping for an entire day while kneeling at the doorstep with his head lowered flashed in Ruan Zhu¡¯s mind.


    ¡°It originally didn¡¯t matter much that Mister Liu had slept with someone¡¯s daughter as after all, it would be the man who suffered and no one would think twice of it. But the prefectural magistrate¡¯s madam personally stepped in to cover for Mister Liu, allowing people to repeatedly speculate. Then some meddlesome commoners remembered that the flower thief had gone to the prefectural magistrate¡¯s residence before and when they put these two events together, there were some who said Mister Liu was the flower thief and no one knows if it¡¯s true or false.¡±


    Ruan Zhu remembered when she had just crossed over, she had come across Peacock Liu and the prefectural magistrate¡¯s madam on more than one occasion. Emerging with one in front and one behind like sprouts, their relationship did not seem normal, so saying that Peacock Liu was the flower thief wasn¡¯t unreasonable.


    ¡°Because of this news, Ming Xiang Cui Yu¡¯s reputation dropped a thousand zhang in one fall.[b] His shop¡¯s customers feared going there again would cause them to lose face and were no longer willing to do so. The current Ming Xiang Cui Yu, ze ze¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes flashed. Since Ming Xiang Cui Yu could no longer do business, why not buy it? It was normally hard to find a store in the prime district that had so many skilled artisans and it would save her the trouble. She did not want the shop¡¯s brand; she only wanted the physical store and its workers.


    ¡°Pitiful Mister Liu. Because of this matter, his parents drove him out of their home and he currently can only be a small peddler with the help of the prefectural magistrate¡¯s madam.¡±


    At this moment, a handsomely bright man walked over from behind Yu Lian Hua. This time, Ruan Zhu remembered who he was because he had been the focus of their conversation.


    Yu Lian Hua was still gossiping on: ¡°Say, this kind of man must not commit any sort of crime. If there¡¯s the tiniest bit of a stain, he¡¯ll live even worse than a dog. A pity that Mister Liu is such good arm candy. He might as well go prostitute himself in a brothel. In that case, I can then touch him a little and bask in the light. Spending a few taels of silver to touch his soft thighs and his black hair¨Cah, it would be good.¡±


    The more the one before Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes spoke, the more outrageous her words became.


    ¡°Cough, cough¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu coughed twice and gave a meaningful look towards Yu Lian Hua. But she seemed to have become addicted: ¡°If Mister Liu is truly the flower thief with the bounty, his skill in bed must be incredibly good, ya? If he entered a brothel, I really might be able to be served by him and send out happy shrieks among my bewildered state.¡±


    Ruan Zhu held her head in her hands. Forget it, it had nothing to do with her; she had already reminded the other.


    ¡°I will let you send out happy shrieks right now!¡±


    Liu Fei Xu fumed with rage between gritted teeth and barked out a loud shout before suddenly lifting a leg and spared no effort in aiming a kick towards the wretched woman¡­¡­


    This kick was done with all his strength and Yu Lian Hua flew up like a ball. Thunk. She knocked against a large plum blossom tree, causing the beautiful flowers to cascade onto the ground.


    ¡°AHH! Save me!¡­¡­¡±


    Yu Lian Hua was in so much pain she couldn¡¯t get up and loudly wailed. Her lord husband that had come along with her hastily ran over.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were on Liu Fei Xu. It was the man at that time, there was no doubt. He was still as outrageously beautiful as ever, but the corners of his eyes exposed that he had gone through a few vicissitudes.


    [a] ÷»¨ Mei Hua = plum blossoms; ¶¹»¨ Dou Hua = tofu pudding; (Óà)Á«»¨ (Yu) Lian Hua = lotus flowers (water lilies)


    [b] Ò»ÂäǧÕÉ, idiom meaning to suffer a sudden, devastating decline

 Chapter 91

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Liu Fei Xu ruthlessly glared at the wretched-looking woman on the ground, itching to step forward and kick her to death. But he clearly understood that he was currently the laughingstock of Lan Zhou and could not stir up any more trouble. Fists tightly clenched, he restrained himself for a long while before the urge to head over there disappeared.


    Ruan Zhu voluntarily stood up. She didn¡¯t have much sympathy towards Yu Lian Hua as she felt the other was a clown, but it would be a pity if she died. She stopped in front of her: ¡°Hey, are you all right?¡±


    One of Yu Lian Hua¡¯s arms dangled; it seemed that her shoulder had been injury. She sat slumped on the ground, supported from the back by her husband, as if she was suffering from paralysis. Grimacing in pain, bitterness was all across her face and she howled in grief: ¡°Ouch¡­¡­Lord, be a little gentler¡­¡­this is really asking for my life¡­¡­I dunno if my ribs are broken?¡±


    This was the result of being a busybody and there was no one else to blame! Mockery was concealed in the corner of Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth: ¡°Oh, that is truly too bad. You had better hire a carriage and return!¡±


    Yu Lian Hua scowled miserably: ¡°Younger Sister Ruan, you know I¡¯m so poor that I can¡¯t even eat rice. Where would I have the coin to hire a carriage to go home? Or how about you lend me some silver based on the fact that we are acquainted. I will definitely return it some day.¡±


    She was already tragic to this extent yet still did not forget to greedily demand some small advantages.


    Ruan Zhu feigned anxiousness: ¡°Aiya, Older Sister Yu shouldn¡¯t look at my clothes that are a little brighter and cleaner. To be honest, these clothes have been sitting in a chest for who knows how many years, and I would be too reluctant to take it out if we hadn¡¯t come out today. Let me tell you the truth¨Cwe can no longer open the pot lid in our home. If we hadn¡¯t borrowed some silver from the neighbors yesterday to buy vegetables and rice, we would long have eaten ourselves.¡±


    ¡°Younger Sister is trying to mislead me. Look at how your family has all these lavish meals with lots of meat and fish and can also afford to eat rare vegetables in winter. No money¨Cwho would believe that, hmm?¡±


    Ruan Zhu was not pleased. No matter how much money she had, it was hers and had absolutely nothing to do with others. Some people always believed that because your family was so wealthy, you couldn¡¯t possibly spend it all, so why not give me some, hmm?


    That sort of thinking made no sense whatsoever. If you looked at it from the other side where the rich became the poor, others would definitely not be so kind.


    Yu Lian Hua was not needy to the extent where she could not eat as people who were in the mood to come out and play would, at the very least, not have any issues with survival. Money was not a problem¨Ceven loaning out three to five thousand taels was a trivial matter¨Cbut Ruan Zhu was unwilling to be considered someone with more money than sense, one that subsequently could be easily fooled.


    ¡°Who asked for me to be kind from the bottom of my heart? Since Older Sister Yu has said thus, I will strive to be a person on good terms with everyone and spend a bit of coin to hire a carriage to send Older Sister Yu back to the city.¡±


    ¡°Is Younger Sister not returning to the city?¡± A small abacus appeared in Yu Lian Hua¡¯s mind. If they rode the same carriage back, she could still use some old tricks and curry intimacy and maybe even fish up some profit.


    ¡°Older Sister Yu is teasing me. I am a poor person, and the residences in the city are too expensive; I cannot afford to live there and could only build my humble abode on a lump of broken ground in the vicinity, barely enough to avoid the wind and snow.¡± Ruan Zhu turned her head towards the still-barbecuing Nuan Chun: ¡°Ai, there¡¯s no need to work so hard, Nuan Chun, as we can¡¯t eat that many anyway. There are quite a few people enjoying themselves nearby and it will be very easy to employ a carriage. Go find one to send Mistress Yu back. We are poor so don¡¯t find one that¡¯s too grand or expensive, and remember to not speak carelessly.¡± Since Yu Lian Hua put on a show of being poor, how could she let the other be disappointed? It would be easier to have conversations if everyone was poor here.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, please be at ease. This slave will surely accomplish the task. The carts on the docks that pull merchandise are very cheap, and this slave will immediately go hire one.¡± Nuan Chun quickly glanced at Yu Lian Hua before bowing towards his master and leaving the forest.


    Ruan Zhu telling Nuan Chun to not carelessly speak was her being unwilling to have Yu Lian Hua become aware of her status. Ever since she had become a Princess, the people who paid a formal visit to her trembled with fear for the most part. As time went on, she felt more and more listless. A commoner on the lowest rung of society being able to yak away about her worries without any apprehension made her feel another kind of amusement.


    Ruan Zhu hadn¡¯t yet finished eating. Sitting down, she picked up a meat skewer for a taste. Unfortunately, it had already cooled and she placed it back on the coals to warm it up. When she had nearly eaten her fill, Nuan Chun returned with the hired cart and Yu Lian Hua was supported into it with the help of her husband. She was still unwilling to give up: ¡°Aiya, Younger Sister is such a good person. Come visit me some other day, I¡¯ll gift you a chastity belt.¡±


    More chastity belts? It would be strange if the stingy Yu Lian Hua gave something for free!


    ¡°Eldest Sister, has that disgusting woman left?¡± Ruan Yu walked over from beyond the forest, leading her small nephew. She shook her head after glancing at their surroundings: ¡°Where did you become acquainted with her? Truly unbearable.¡±


    Ruan Zhu smiled: ¡°I think she is very interesting.¡± Ruan Zhu pulled Zhi Xi into her arms, giving him a kiss before taking a few barbecued skewers from Nuan Chun¡¯s hands and handing her son and Ruan Yu one each.


    Ruan Yu sat down and took the proffered skewer from her sister¡¯s hands. Her table manners were neat and efficient yet did not have a single trace of vulgarity: ¡°You are currently an imperial princess and are not afraid of lowering your dignity?¡±


    Ruan Zhu sighed: ¡°There is no gain without a loss; I fear I cannot bear the freezing cold.¡± She now had a noble status and actually cherished her previously simple days.


    ¡°I fear I cannot bear the freezing cold. Zhi Xi knows this.¡± Zhi Xi suddenly loudly recited a few lines that his mother had taught him these past few days: ¡°When did the bright moon come out? Holding a wine cup, I ask the sky. I¡¯m wondering, up in the Celestial Palace, in which year is tonight? I fear I cannot bear the freezing cold. Dancing with my moonlit shadow on the Earth, I find it better than ascending to the Moon¡­¡­¡±[a] Zhi Xi recited to here and stopped, bitterness on his small face as he thought hard before raising his head: ¡°Ma, Zhi Xi doesn¡¯t remember the rest.¡±


    Ruan Zhu smiled: ¡°Listen, following that is¨CRounding the crimson buildings, it hangs over the ornamental windows, casting its light upon the sleepless. Oh, Moon, you may not hate us, but why are you always at your full before we part? Man has grief at separation and joy at reunion; the Moon wanes and waxes alternatively, which has been a fact since antiquity. May all we humans be blessed with longevity! So, though far apart, we can share the moon¡¯s beauty.¡± According to her calculations, Su Shi hadn¡¯t yet been born, so during the time she was teaching Zhi Xi, she had thickened her face and plagiarized.


    Zhi Xi was very supportive and clapped his little hands: ¡°Mother is amazing.¡±


    A smile spilled from Nuan Chun¡¯s mouth. His family¡¯s Eldest Miss was becoming more and more talented. He did not understand the meaning between the lines yet he felt the verses were very beautiful and they made his spirit become free from worries.


    Ruan Yu was enthralled and only remarked after a long time: ¡°That poem is truly nice on the ears. It had not occurred to me that Sister had a new work. Following around a remarkable literary husband for the entire day has actually caused you to turn red from being near cinnabar[b].¡± Ruan Yu was under the assumption that her older sister¡¯s skill was something that the Prince of Qi had taught her.


    ¡°A good poem!¡± Words of praise came from the depths of the forest.


    Ruan Zhu spun and saw a group of people walking out from the forest, among them included Peacock Liu. By his side was a gorgeously-dressed female that looked especially familiar, and she suddenly remembered after thinking a bit¨Cwasn¡¯t this the madam of the prefectural magistrate? She had been put in a difficult spot on a decorated pleasure boat in Lan River by her several years ago, and had then also seen her again when she had visited Tian Yi Pavilion. Peacock Liu had been present both times. But wait, didn¡¯t she still owe her a hundred taels of gold, hmm?


    Actually, Liu Fei Xu had been too embarrassed to face someone he had taken liberties with in the past so he had wordlessly slipped away earlier. He had not gone that far when he came across the prefectural magistrate¡¯s madam leading a group of friends. They had originally arranged to meet at this plum blossom forest today, and he had arrived first and then ran into Ruan Yu and Yu Lian Hua. Having been fully unmasked, his heart did not feel comfortable and he wanted to leave, but he was no match for his friends¡¯ enthusiasm and joined together with them to find a secluded spot to appreciate the flowers, reciting some grieved poems at times.


    Who could have guessed that the more they walked, the closer they were to Ruan Zhu¡¯s spot? They first heard a child reciting poetry that was soon followed by Ruan Zhu¡¯s continuation.


    The skin on Liu Fei Xu¡¯s face was thick, perhaps because he had been in this line of work for too long. Acting as if his previous short unmasking hadn¡¯t occurred at all, he calmly introduced everyone: ¡°This madam is surnamed Ruan, and she is one of my old friends. This lady is perhaps her younger sister. Madam Ruan, I do not know if what I have said is correct?¡±


    Look at that introduction! Nuan Chun had seen the scene of Yu Lian Hu being kicked, and he became enraged inside: The flower thief dared to say Eldest Miss was an old friend; he is too impatient to live! How would it be like if the two princes were to know of this? Wait until I return and make my complaints towards them. When the Princes become angry, it would be best to castrate Liu Fei Xu and place him at home as a palace eunuch. Qu Gao has gone to manage the Lan Zhou branch of Hua Nong Ying so it just so happens that we are lacking a little errand brother to run back and forth with the accounts book. Furthermore, Liu Fei Xu is literate and it would be entirely suitable for him to become Qu Gao¡¯s little brother.


    Nuan Chun was completely wrapped up in his beautiful fantasy of Liu Fei Xu becoming a palace eunuch, and his angered mind eased.


    ¡°She is indeed my younger sister Ruan Yu.¡± Ruan Zhu responded.


    Ruan Yu heard her elder sister introducing her and slightly bowed. She had led Zhi Xi away earlier and did not know anything regarding whether Liu Fei Xu was the flower thief or not. If she knew, the young lady¡¯s temper would have flared and she would have long turned around and left.


    ¡°None of you know this, correct? That incredibly popular five-character ¡°The bright Moon shines in between the pine tree; Over the rocks, the clear spring water runs free¡± poem is Madam Ruan¡¯s work.¡±[c]


    It was only then that the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam recalled what happened on the pleasure boat that year. At the time, her impression of Ruan Zhu was not very good and now she saw Liu Fei Xu was full of praises for her poems. Her eyes couldn¡¯t help but to darken, unhappiness leaking through her gorgeous features. Bright eyes faintly rippling, she gave a charming smile: ¡°Who would have thought this small Madam Ruan was a poem connoisseur. It just so happens that we were reciting poetry to appreciate the beauty of the plum blossoms. Why doesn¡¯t the small Madam recite a few poems to join in the fun?¡±


    A Madam was a Madam, why was there a need for a ¡®small Madam¡¯? A trace of mockery was in Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes. She was currently a noble member of the imperial family¨Chowever grandeur the prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam was, could this Madam still surpass her? However, wanting to embarrass her was but a pipe dream.


    ¡°Last time we had bet on a hundred taels of gold; I do not know what we are betting on this time?¡±


    ¡°It is still gold taels. If small Madam Ruan has the skill to recite another verse as famous as ¡®The bright Moon shines in between the pine tree; Over the rocks, the clear spring water runs free,¡¯ I am willing to take out another hundred taels of gold. If what is recited is inferior to that verse, then that is also of no matter as everyone in the circle will still be happy with the attempt.¡±


    ¡°Prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam is very humorous, but I do not know when the taels of gold from many years ago can be redeemed?¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s tone was indifferent, as if she didn¡¯t care, but it also carried a faint trace of contempt.


    ¡°If there is a good verse, it will be honored together.¡± She simply did not believe that this person could create another poem that would also be so extensively circulated.


    Liu Fei Xu couldn¡¯t resist saying towards the Madam of the prefectural magistrate: ¡°I think Madam should not strive to make a meaningless point. Based on that previous ¡®Rounding the crimson buildings, it hangs over the ornamental windows, casting its light upon the sleepless. Oh, Moon, you may not hate us¡®¡­¡­Madam Ruan¡¯s level of mastery towards poetry is absolutely out of the ordinary; you are set to lose.¡±


    The prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam finally showed some alarm: ¡°That poem was also your work?¡±


    Yet Ruan Zhu did not respond: ¡°I am indebted that you think so highly of me. I will recite two poems and I hope everyone can grant me the honor of offering their instruction.¡± She was fixed on those golden bars.


    Lightly moving sideways, she broke off a branch from an old plum blossom tree then made her way towards an area with soft dirt, where she wrote plum blossom verses from the Song dynasty¡¯s Book of Songs. After multiple years of practice, her writing was now very remarkable and lines of extraordinarily beautiful thin-gold style of calligraphy appeared.[d]


    The Snow and the Plum I: The plum and the snow vie to be the first in spring, the poet puts down his pen to assess their fight. In white, the plum is lesser than the snow by thirty percent, yet the snow loses against the plum¡¯s scent.


    The Snow and the Plum II: Without the snow, the plum is listless, and snow without a poem is very humdrum. When the poem is finished at sunset, it snows again and forms a complete spring together with the plum.[e]


    When Ruan Zhu had finished writing, she threw the branch away and fixed her gaze on the people waiting: ¡°How is it?¡±


    The prefectural magistrate¡¯s Madam silently stared at the words on the ground, annoyance in her eyes.


    But the group of people who had arrived with her were in a commotion and started reading the lines, with some saying the poem was good, others saying the writing was good. A peerlessly beautiful man gave a long greeting to Ruan Zhu with his clasped hands raised high: ¡°This humble one is Feng Qing Bai who has long heard of Madam¡¯s matchless poems and is willing to extend a firm hand and praise.¡±


    Feng Qing Bai! She seemed to have heard someone mention this name before.


    Yet Ruan Yu¡¯s face changed colors and with one arm carrying her nephew, her other hand pulled her elder sister out of the forest.


    Nuan Chun did not even have the time to put away all of the barbecue tools and hurriedly followed after them.


    Feng Qing Bai was grieved. No matter how clean he was or how much he cherished his good name, he could not escape the contemptible reputation of having been a courtesan and was looked down on by all who stood before and behind him. Liu Fei Xu¡¯s eyes also became gloomy as his gaze followed that beautiful figure who was now distantly far away.


    Guan Ju Villa¨Cthe two sisters were currently conversing inside Yi Zhu Cottage.


    ¡°What¡¯s with you, getting angry for no reason?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re still saying that? Don¡¯t tell me Sister really doesn¡¯t know the background of that Feng Qing Bai?¡±


    ¡°What am I supposed to know, ah?¡± Ruan Zhu was baffled.


    ¡°He is an unclean man, and I¡¯m afraid that the other people are also no good.¡± Disgust was all over Ruan Yu¡¯s face.


    ¡°How old are you, you silly girl, to be pretending to be so noble and virtuous? What do you understand?¡± Ruan Zhu used her finger to poke her. Her younger sister was extremely beautiful. The sixteen year old female had bright eyes and bright teeth, a rare beauty. She couldn¡¯t help but to say: ¡°Yu¡¯er is now sixteen years old and ought to have her own family. Unfortunately, neither of our parents are home, and it looks like it is something I, the older sister, has to worry about.¡±


    Ruan Yu disdainfully responded: ¡°By no means do I want those mediocre men. If I want one, I want the best.¡±


    ¡°Who is the one that Sister is saying is the best? You seem to have a target?¡±


    Ruan Yu was a little embarrassed. Her cheeks flushed as she whispered: ¡°Eldest Sister knows that if I have nothing better to do, I¡¯ll run over to Ci Ji Hall. I¡­¡­I met a very remarkable man¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s interest was piqued: ¡°What is his clan name? Tell me. If his family¡¯s situation and status is considered compatible with our Ruan clan¡¯s, Sister will act as the Head and marry you to him.¡±


    Ruan Yu remained silent and only indistinctly sighed after a moment: ¡°It is because I do not know his clan name that I am at a loss.¡±


    ¡°No way, you like him even without knowing his clan name?¡± Ruan Zhu felt a little dizzy. Although this was a little rare, it also couldn¡¯t be considered that strange: ¡°Then what do you plan on doing?¡±


    ¡°I will still go to Ci Ji Hall and wait¡­¡­¡±


    No wonder she had not seen a trace of her shadow during this time. It turns out she had matters of the heart.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi returned at night. It was his turn to stay at Yi Zhu Cottage tonight and he very naturally shed his armor. Ruan Zhu personally helped her hubby wash his face and mentioned the things that had happened in the plum blossom forest this morning.


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, do you think Liu Fei Xu could possibly be the long-rumored flower thief?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi lazily replied: ¡°I do not know whether he is the flower thief or not, but I do know he is the Four Great Master¡¯s Wan Zi Yu¡­¡­¡±


    [a] This poem is called Ë®µ÷¸èÍ·¡¤Ã÷Ô¼¸Ê±ÓÐ ¡°The Water Melody¨CWhen will the Moon come out?¡± by ËÕéø Su Shi. English translation taken from An Outline of Chinese Literature II by Yuan Xing Pei.


    [b] ½üÖìÕß³à, Half of an idiom meaning, being near a good person makes one good aka the environment has a great influence on people. The rest of the saying is ½üÄ«ÕßºÚ being near ink makes one black.


    [c] The English translation is clearly not five characters per line, but the Chinese poem actually is, so I kept that part untouched. And again, translation is by Alan Ma and Frank Yue, taken from here.


    [d] ÊݽðÌå is a type of Chinese calligraphy where all the strokes are very thinly made. Examples in the Chinese Wikipedia page.


    [e] These are two poems from ѩ÷¶þÊ× (The Snow and the Plum Two Poems) by ¬÷Æ Lu Mei Po.

 Chapter 92

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er |(lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ʱ³½ | sichen |time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Wan Zi Yu? Ruan Zhu was startled: ¡°But he is Ming Xiang Cui Yu¡¯s young master, a highly eligible bachelor with both an exquisite appearance and wealth. Why on earth did he run into a brothel to be a courtesan?¡±


    ¡°In search of a thrill, maybe!¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi had long become accustomed to his wife¡¯s manner of speaking. Removing his clothes, he allowed his wife to wipe off his sweat with a towel moistened with warm water, a smile in his eyes. Other families¡¯ wives all waited for their men to attend to them; his own family¡¯s wife was a treasure that always took care of them men. Virtuous, warm and kind, with good moral character¨CAs the number of females in the world decreased, those words had fallen into the depths of the sea to grow mold, yet his wife displayed them and embodied them perfectly.


    ¡°Because he¡¯s searching for a thrill, he can, without a care in the world, become a flower thief, and become a mister of a brothel; destroying his reputation? Don¡¯t tell me he¡¯s not afraid of being discovered by others?¡±


    Ruan Zhu threw off her husband¡¯s trousers and wiped his member clean. She was afraid of catching a gynecological disease so she always demanded her husbands to be fresh and clean before they indulged in passion.


    ¡°Whenever Liu Fei Xu went to the brothel, he always wore a muslin veil and almost no one knew of his appearance; it was a mistake that I found out. While he had been working, his favored patron¡¯s principal husband rushed over to catch them in the act. That husband¡¯s martial arts skill had not been low and he had viciously beat him, tearing off his veil in the process. However, Liu Fei Xu was also truly ruthless. After his injury had healed, he spent an enormous sum to hire some people, sending them to the favored patron¡¯s home and castrating that principal husband.¡±


    ¡°Nothing happened to you after you discovered his secret, right?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi smiled and pulled his wife into his arms, placing her properly on his lap while pushing aside her lapel and lightly touching the skin inside: ¡°Your man is not so weak that even a flower thief cannot be beaten. I promised to keep his secret and the matter could be considered concluded.¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought back to several years ago when she had gone to the Lan River to go sightseeing with Yun Shi Yi. She had unexpectedly came across Yu Lian Hua, who had said that with one light stare from Wan Zi Yu, any woman who sees him would have no resistance, but it was a pity that he always wore a veil as no one had ever seen the face behind it.


    ¡°Liu Fei Xu is of a different class in this era and super high quality. However, even if his activities had been better concealed, there would inevitably be a day when everything was exposed.¡± Ruan Zhu did not extremely dislike that person and shook her head: ¡°A pity. The only fault was that he was born in the wrong era.¡±


    Just like what she had previously thought, everyone had lewd thoughts and the ones who were bold turned them into reality. In her past life, she had seen news about an United Kingdom hooker called Jenny Thompson, whose father was an oil engineer with a considerable income. She had gone to a very good school since she was young and basically didn¡¯t lack anything in her life. In search of excitement, she could have affairs with a hundred men, and because her sex life was so chaotic, she had an unexpected pregnancy and wasn¡¯t even clear on who the father was.


    ¡°Our family currently only has four males and is still lacking a fifth that you must accept before you turn twenty. Even if you are my princess consort, you cannot go against the rules. There are so many pairs of eyes watching and previously, Prime Minister Wang even brought up having his bastard son attend to you. I gave an excuse of needing your opinion and delayed the proposal.¡±


    Ruan Zhu listened quietly. The candidates for her Number Five must be honest and well-behaved as the tranquility of her home must not be undermined because of a stupid man.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi peeled off each piece of his wife¡¯s clothing. There was geothermal heating underneath and the inside of the room was nice and warm so he was not afraid she would catch a cold. He continued: ¡°Every time Liu Fei Xu appeared in the brothel, he was very well-received. The women were completely infatuated with him and all dreamed to tear off that veil of his. Has my Zhu¡¯er also come to be fond of him?¡±


    ¡°What are you saying? I am not a stallion female. If that kind of man were to ever join our family, pandemonium would break out. Also, who knows whether he has those dirty disease or not? If he spread it, I might not even be able to have children in the future.¡±


    In her previous world, there were countless women who had gynecological diseases and gave birth to children that were both mute and deaf. Ruan Zhu absolutely would not allow that sort of situation to occur. ¡°If I must have five men, I am actually not opposed to Nuan Chun taking that position, but men with unrestrained and improper conduct are absolutely out of the question.¡±


    ¡°Not liking is good. I was also afraid you would like that, and to be honest, that man is very annoying and I look down upon him. However, Nuan Chun¡¯s status is too low and is insufficient to be the fifth.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean his status is too low and he is insufficient? I can remove him from the slave registry and then he would also have the identity of a freed man. Or how about we find a wealthy family to adopt him?¡±


    ¡°We can discuss this in the future, let us do something more honorable and proper first.¡±


    One of Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s hands was one top, one was below as he teased his wife¡¯s sensitive spots. His finger that had gone to explore her depths both prodded and thrust back and forth, causing her entire face to be full of arousal and her breathing to become hurried and delicate.


    He saw it was nearly about time and positioned her so that she was straddling his crotch, holding his stiff member as it entered inside her. The warmth and tightness attacked him, and his entire body felt both heated and limp, completely free of worries¡­¡­He supported her buttocks. While he twitched inside her, he got up from the chair and headed towards the bed in a position like they were watching flowers from horseback.


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡­¡­Stand just like that¡­¡­I want it like this¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s legs were wrapped around his waist while her arms embraced his neck as she softly moaned out her demands: ¡°So arousing¡­¡­so good¡­¡­I like it¡­¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi heard her words and stood there, supporting her derriere with his hands while his shaft continued to fiercely thrust in and out of her.


    Both people received immense satisfaction and pleasure.


    Half a sichen later, both of them were lying on the bed.


    Ruan Zhu had been pulled by her husband into his arms, and she mused after thinking about what had happened today: ¡°Big Brother Lu, none of the Four Great Masters are ordinary. Lu Piao Xiang¡¯s guqin; Wan Zi Yu¡¯s looks; Feng Qing Bai¡¯s verses; Shen Cong Yun¡¯s sword. Because my poems were good, Feng Qi Bai greeted me today and expressed his earnestness to be friends¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu saw that her husband was deeply considering something and hurried to add: ¡°Don¡¯t think too much, I don¡¯t have any other meaning.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi laughed: ¡°I think it is you whose thoughts have gone in the wrong direction as I was not even considering that possibility. I was thinking about this morning¡¯s court¨Cwe had just been dismissed and I had yet to leave when I was called back by Xiao Zhou Zi and led to Emperor-Father¡¯s palace where I was handed some newly circulated poems to read. There was one regarding an unknown celestial palace and two verses on plum blossoms that he said was your work. Wife, you are genuinely skilled; look at how a few casually spoken poems were able to cause such a sensation in an extremely short amount of time.¡±


    The current emperor liked dance and literature. So much so, that every time he discovered there was a new and popular poem in Tian Chu, he would rush to hear and appreciate it. Even if he had been sleeping, he valued hearing the new verses over getting properly dressed first.


    Ruan Zhu yawned: ¡°Today I was put in a tough spot by the madam of the prefectural magistrate. I hadn¡¯t wanted to be too pretentious as there was no bit of meaning in being so.¡±


    The Chinese have always placed too much importance on literary works, which actually caused their science and technology to lag behind. On the contrary, she was currently interested in that high-tech experimental field on the banks of the Lan River. Spending money for people to gather various forms of rice seeds from all over the country, she had then used the seeds to create multiple rice hybrids and find the hybrid seed with the most yield. Rice wasn¡¯t all she had done¨Ca new type of pear had been formed after grafting apple trees with pear trees, and apple trees grafted with grape vines resulted in plump grapes that were sweet and refreshing.


    ¡°Did the madam of the prefectural magistrate especially made it difficult for you?¡±


    ¡°She really does want to make it difficult for me, but she fails every time and probably hates me to death in her heart. Up to now, she still owes me two hundred taels of gold and hasn¡¯t honored it yet!¡±


    ¡°Would you like this husband to step in and resolve the matter?¡±


    ¡°No need! She¡¯s merely a brainless fifth-rank madam who is not as talented in literature as I am or have as extensive experiences as me. Your wife is not so below average that she cannot deal with that kind of person. Let¡¯s sleep! Lord Husband, I¡¯m tired.¡±


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes lingered on his wife¡¯s sleeping face, a bit of gloominess in his heart. It had been ten days before it was his turn so how could one round be enough? He sneezed. Forget it, he would ask for compensation early tomorrow morning. Cuddling his wife, he soon entered dreamland.


    Ci Ji Hall was this era¡¯s charity. Ruan Yu was too lazy to make friends with some brainless women and had been friends with Dong Fang Hua for a while now. After Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s information network, Tian Wang Embassy, had been established, Nangong Xun had assumed its heavy responsibility and Dong Fang Hua had been so busy assisting her husband, she hadn¡¯t had time to call upon Ruan Yu.


    Ruan Yu was isolated and was also unwilling to have dealings with opinionated women, so if she was free, she would roam around Ci Ji Hall. Under the flag of doing charity, she would contribute money and donate clothing. In the beginning, it was to pass the time but she became obsessed after she ran into a man.


    ¡°That mister is very young and handsome, but I do not know what his clan name is. The first time I met him was in the back street of Ci Ji Hall. I was afraid they had closed the city gates, and because I was rushing home, I used the back door and ran into him.¡±


    Guan Ju Villa was on the banks of the Lan River, outside of the city. Although Ruan Yu had a pass token given to her from her Brother-in-law, she rarely used it because of the inconvenience it would bring.


    ¡°You can¡¯t have simply liked him without anything happening; something had to have happened, right!¡±


    The two sisters were sitting in the carriage. They had just entered the city when unexpectedly, something troublesome occurred.


    Because the new year was approaching, the commoners had all come out to shop and the streets were extremely crowded. Carriages followed carriages, workers hauled poles on their shoulders, and the teeming streets buzzed with people pushing small carts.


    Ruan Zhu called for the coachman to reduce the speed; they absolutely could not hurt anyone. They approached a narrow stone bridge with pedestrian using either sides while carriages drove by in the middle. Two vehicles could cross side-by-side with no problem but three carriages would result in an accident.


    There were numerous noble clans underneath the Son of Heaven¡¯s feet and some of the insanely proud ones would inevitably appear. A carriage directly appeared in front of them. Perhaps they were in a rush to get on the road, as they very quickly, attempted to charge at the gap between the vehicles of Ruan Zhu¡¯s and another family¡¯s.


    The other vehicle was a donkey cart that was truly out of luck. They flipped over in an instant, blood-curdling screams coming from the cart, and it could be assumed their injuries were not light.


    The Ruan carriage was superbly made from mahogany and pulled by four horses that were all good colts from central Asia that had received training. The expert coachman was highly skilled. When they were forcefully struck by the carriage in front, he backed up their carriage by two meters and the carriage quickly stabilized.


    But the two sisters inside the carriage had still been thrown about. A corner of the skin at Ruan Yu¡¯s forehead had split and blood flowed out. Ruan Zhu crawled up from underneath the seat and fished out a handkerchief to wipe her blood before using ning xiang lu on the injured areas.


    Ruan Yu endured the pain and wanted to go outside to demand for justice. She hadn¡¯t yet left the carriage¡­¡­The coachman who had caused the accident got down from his own vehicle and slashed his whip towards Ruan Zhu¡¯s driver: ¡°You blind dog slave didn¡¯t see a carriage coming? This is but the carriage of the wife of Shun Tian Hall¡¯s magistrate. Are you able to compensate after injuring my family¡¯s Eldest Miss?¡±


    Everyone wore thick cotton clothes in the cold winter and the whip slash did not hurt too much. But ever since his Eldest Miss had become a Princess, the Ruan residence¡¯s coachman had even been praised by those above in being one with ability and his face shone with light. Whenever he went in and out of the neighborhood, who among the neighbors didn¡¯t place him highly in their eyes? He had never been slashed by a whip in the middle of the street before.


    The Ruan clan¡¯s coachman glared as he hollered abuse back: ¡°You¡¯re the one that¡¯s blind. You can¡¯t even properly follow the road; you must be urgently heading towards reincarnation, ah? Has your head been kicked by a donkey? What kind of status does the magistrate¡¯s Young Miss have, ah? Fuck, you¡¯re all brainless.¡±


    Ruan Zhu came down from the carriage at that time. Hearing those sentences, she gloomily supported her forehead with her hand. How come even the servants had picked up her way of speaking?


    The owners of the carriage that had caused the accident descended, and Ruan Zhu was stunned as there was someone she recognized¨Camong them was a man gorgeously dressed with a handsome complexion, who was also a blood relative.


    Wei Jia! Ruan Zhu thought she had already long forgotten that name.


    Standing next to Wei Jia was a young female who was rather familiar-looking. Oh right, wasn¡¯t this the daughter of Shun Tian Hall¡¯s magistrate?


    The magistrate was the Crown Prince¡¯s henchman so his daughter had been promised to the crippled Zhao Hai. During that time in the capital, Zhao Hai¡¯s life had been caught in her plan for him to ride the wooden donkey and the magistrate¡¯s daughter had also become a laughingstock.


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter¡¯s face was entirely tinted with anger: ¡°From where did these untouchables come from to dare disturb this lady¡¯s mood of going to see the plum blossoms with my concubine?¡±


    Wei Jia had become the magistrate¡¯s daughter¡¯s secondary husband and knew how to curry favor just like his father! Ruan Zhu silently cursed them in her heart.


    The Wei Jia on the side opened his mouth: ¡°This slave recognizes these two females; they are from a lowly merchant family.¡± When he saw the two Ruan sisters coming down from their carriage, his face instantly became gloomy.


    Disgust was all over the magistrate¡¯s daughter¡¯s face: ¡°So they are of the merchant stratum; I was thinking how they could be so coarse. Zhou Er, go over and viciously slap them for me. If they die, they deserved it.¡±


    The coachman called Zhou Er sprang towards the Ruan family¡¯s driver, fists flailing, and the two men came to blows.


    But how could Ruan Zhu¡¯s coachman be ordinary? He had grown up together with the two Yun brothers and had learned a few martial arts moves. He very quickly restrained the other onto the ground and fiercely beat him up.


    Ruan Zhu also smiled. Copying the words of the magistrate¡¯s daughter, she directed towards her coachman: ¡°Viciously slap them for me. If they die, they deserved it.¡±


    She had only said that to scare the magistrate¡¯s daughter and didn¡¯t actually mean for him to fatally hit anyone. She knew that her coachman normally acted with propriety, which is why she had specifically worded it that way.


    But Ruan Yu was not concerned with any of that and coldly sneered: ¡°If you wish to hit, then you ought to hit the master. I would actually like to see how disgusting the appearance of Shun Tian Hall¡¯s magistrate¡¯s wildly arrogant Eldest Miss is when she¡¯s beaten such that she¡¯s sprawling on the ground.¡±


    The stone bridge became a cacophony of noise as the commoners encircled them to watch the scene.


    When the patrolling officials discovered this, they loudly yelled for the crowd to disperse and came over to ask the reason for the trouble.


    Ruan Zhu had been sitting in Yun Shi Yi¡¯s carriage that was without any marking of a princess, but the engraving on the carriage of the magistrate¡¯s daughter was clearly visible. Thus when the officials saw it, smiles immediately stretched across their faces as they spoke a few pleasant pandering phrases.


    Wei Jia had long been waiting for a day when he could take revenge. His heart bursting with a proud anger, he coldly looked at Ruan Zhu before bursting into laughter: ¡°Thirty years of the river in the east turns to thirty years of the river in the west.[a] It hasn¡¯t even been two years and I can trample you Ruan clan to death like ants. That so-called ¡®civilians do not fight with the officials¡¯¨Cthis nobleman offers you the advice of hurriedly kneeling and begging for forgiveness. If my mood is good, perhaps I may only invite all of you inside Shun Tian Hall¡¯s prison. If my mood is not good, even if all of you are killed on the spot, it would be in vain.¡±


    How could there be so many narcissistic people in this world? He even calls himself a ¡®nobleman¡¯?


    Ruan Zhu indifferently responded: ¡°Wei Jia, my Ruan family does not owe you. Raising you to this age was already showing extreme benevolence and doing one¡¯s utmost duty. It is all of you that do not know how to be grateful. All right then. I would actually like to see what ability you have to be able to send me into prison or even kill me on the spot.¡±


    Ruan Yu¡¯s anger had long been ignited: ¡°You bastard without a conscience, you lowly thing, unable to tell good from bad. We should have sent your entire family to be sold off in a distant place so that the dog would not come back to bite Lu Dong Bin[b].¡±


    [a] ÈýÊ®ÄêºÓ¶«ÈýÊ®ÄêºÓÎ÷ is an expression meaning the pendulum has swung back, basically saying the world has its ups and downs. The basis of the saying lies in the Yellow River of China that naturally changes course over time because of an increase in sediment along the bottoms of its channels, forming natural dams. So, the river may flow along the west for a few decades then switch to flowing along the east and so on.


    [b] ÂÀ¶´±ö Lu Dong Bin is one of the Eight Immortals. (Wikipedia) His name was probably thrown in here because he is like a Western equivalent of a saint.

 Chapter 93

    Wei Jia had been viciously attacked by the two Ruan sister¡¯s words and was so angered steam came out of his ears. After he had been deceived by Ruan Ju and sold to a human broker, he had then ended up as the magistrate¡¯s daughter¡¯s bedwarmer after changing some more hands. Who knew how many tricks he had used to fight his way into the position of a secondary husband? Now that he had received such a perfect opportunity for revenge, how could he easily give it up?


    ¡°Madam, look at how they are spitting blood on and humiliating this slave. Is this not the same as shaming you?¡± Wei Jia widened his bewitching eyes as he complained towards the magistrate¡¯s daughter.


    ¡°You can be assured; I will surely retrieve your face for you. Not only will they have to kneel in apology, they will also be thrown into the yamen for a beating.¡±


    ¡°All of you dare to be so courageous. Our family¡¯s Eldest Miss is the Princess of Qi, so if you know how to be discreet, hurry and scram!¡± The Ruan clan¡¯s coachman was worried his masters would suffer and quickly revealed her status.


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter was startled and looked towards Wei Jia in inquiry. The three bailiffs also stopped their actions. Under the foot of the Son of Heaven, what sort of people could they not meet? If she was truly the Princess of Qi, then they certainly could not dare to offend her.


    ¡°Truly a joke that makes one laugh to death. I have grown up in her family since small so could there be anything regarding the ins and outs of that family that I am unclear about?¡± Wei Jia burst into laughter and taunted: ¡°I can say I am the Jade Emperor, but will there be anyone who believes that, ah!¡±


    Ruan Yu spat out: ¡°You shameless thing, to actually still have the face to bring out that you were raised in our home. Absolutely shameless.¡±


    Wei Jia bristled with anger and turned his head to look at the magistrate¡¯s daughter, his large eyes seemingly layered with misty tears: ¡°Madam, look at them¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Xiao Jia, don¡¯t be upset. Wait for me to vent your anger by killing these two untouchables.¡±


    After the magistrate¡¯s daughter finished speaking to Wei Jia, she suddenly turned and charged over.


    Her soul had really been hooked by this new man of hers, and she rushed forward with the intention of delivering a slap to Ruan Zhu¡¯s face. How could Ruan Yu allow the other to touch her older sister? Relying on the few martial arts moves she had learned before, she lifted a leg and kicked the other far away. That one kick was truly not light, and the magistrate¡¯s daughter knocked against the bridge¡¯s railing, her face black, though who knew whether it was from anger or pain. She cursed at the three bailiffs: ¡°Fucking useless things. Still standing there? Don¡¯t know to come over and help, ah?!¡±


    The three bailiffs had not dared to casually move without first ascertaining Ruan Zhu¡¯s identity, and they all pretended as if they had not heard her.


    Ruan Zhu was not too worried. The main workings of Tian Wang Embassy were already in full swing and though they did not have as much information of other places, the agency at least had a very good foothold in the city of Lan Zhou with her husband¡¯s informers placed on all the streets. It was even possible for the small peddler on the side of the road selling candied hawthorn to actually be receiving a good salary from Tian Wang Embassy. Since her coachman had already publicized her identity, it would not be long before reinforcements appeared.


    Seeing that the magistrate¡¯s daughter was prompting the bailiffs, she gave a cold smile: ¡°You wish to use Lan Zhou as your own home and believe everyone will listen to your orders? Who do you think you are?¡±


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter was currently in a rage. Her complexion changed and she abruptly charged at Ruan Zhu again.


    ¡°Again with wanting to hit someone.¡± Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t wait for Ruan Yu to come over and moved first. Fights between women did not stray behind a few moves¨Cgrabbing their hair, scratching them with their nails; she grabbed her opponent¡¯s long hair and forcefully tugged.


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter was also not benevolent and similarly grabbed (S) at Ruan Zhu¡¯s long hair, raising a leg to kick at the latter¡¯s calf.


    Having been kicked, Ruan Zhu¡¯s center was unstable and she fell to the ground. Her hand tenaciously kept its hold on the hair of the magistrate¡¯s daughter so the both of them fell over like joined candied hawthorns. Ruan Zhu¡¯s head spun from the fall and she saw a shadow throwing itself at the magistrate¡¯s daughter.


    It was Ruan Yu! ¡°Dare to hit my sister, I¡¯ll take your life!¡± Ruan Yu held down the magistrate¡¯s daughter and pummeled her. She was a bold child that had been as wild as a boy when young. She knew a few martial arts moves, so in a fight with an ordinary girl, she was able to firmly restrain the other with just one hand, causing the magistrate¡¯s daughter to be beaten in just a few moves until she repeatedly howled.


    ¡°This beating is not enough.¡± Ruan Zhu was of the mindset that she shouldn¡¯t have started the fight, but since she did, she had better not stop, and reached out to tear off the magistrate¡¯s daughter¡¯s fox fur cloak. This mother!! This was the first time that she had gotten in a fight with anyone since she could remember and some excitement actually showed through on her face.


    The magistrate¡¯s driver crawled up from the ground, wanting to help his master. The Ruan family¡¯s coachman pressed him down by sitting atop him like he was a horse and thrashed him again.


    The several bailiffs were at a loss for what was best to do. One was the honorable daughter of Shun Tian Hall¡¯s magistrate; the other was possibly the Princess of Qi. No matter who it was, they could not afford to offend either. They repeatedly called for them all to stop, stop, but it would be a wonder if anyone listened to them.


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter had eaten a huge loss and abused Wei Jia roundly: ¡°You fucking shitty cunt that only knows to how scream with pleasure in bed, what the hell are you looking for?! Do you want me to die?! You fucking idiot!!¡±


    Wei Jia had long been scared silly. He had been raised since he was a child in the Ruan clan and there would inevitably be some inferiority in his subconscious. That shout cleared his mind and he understood that if he did not go over, his status as a secondary husband could be considered gone.


    Ruan Zhu was still removing the magistrate¡¯s daughter¡¯s fox fur cloack when Wei Jia abruptly grabbed her arm. In his haste, he had grabbed the wrong area and one of his hands touched her soft chest. With a forceful tear, her top was torn open, revealing a slice of snow-white skin. Fortunately, there was still a low-cut undergarment.


    Wei Jia was also trembling. Everything he had learned from his father was on bedroom matters, and he had studied how to make a woman happy. On matters of fighting, he had never studied this and didn¡¯t know where to place his hands.


    Ruan Zhu was stupefied and there was only one thought in her mind¨Cshe must kill this bastard!! Standing up, she aimed a kick at his family jewels and then kicked again. She considered in her heart of how it just so happened that Qu Gao wanted a little errand eunuch to hold the account books, so let¡¯s just have this bastard turn into a palace eunuch starting now! Those two kicks of hers were indeed spot-on.


    As it was winter, she wore thick, cowhide-soled shoes and even sturdy men would not be able to withstand her two kicks. After her boots had hit their mark on Wei Jia, he immediately kneeled on the ground, his tears already flowing as he wailed in pain. It was only much later that Ruan Zhu discovered this guy hadn¡¯t been broken by her kicks and really regretted it. If she had known, she would have put on wooden clogs and kicked the son of a bitch to death! The wooden clogs here were actually sandals and the people here also called them slabs as the soles were extremely thick and sturdy.


    The number of people on the bridge watching the commotion became more and more, with layers upon layers of bystanders forming.


    Ones shouldering poles, hawkers pushing small carts¨Cnone of them did their work and instead, circled around them, gesturing and saying all sorts of things.


    Ruan Zhu heard such-and-such about this man, such-and-such about those women!! Damn, the originally small matter of a carriage crash had actually turned into gossip on the relationship between a man and woman.


    The three patrolling bailiffs were still repeatedly calling for them to ¡®stop hitting, doing so will only result in their deaths.¡¯ It didn¡¯t matter if the ones winning were actually the Prince of Qi¡¯s people or not, as they would be in deep water if the magistrate¡¯s daughter were to die by any chance. They were merely a few nobodies that absolutely could not assume the responsibility.


    One bailiff went over to stop the two coachmen. The Ruan family¡¯s coachman had actually won and got up happily after hearing his words.


    Ruan Yu was still fighting with that magistrate¡¯s daughter and had cause the other¡¯s face to swell up like two suddenly-risen white steamed buns. The magistrate¡¯s tigress temper had been stirred up and she snatched at Ruan Yu¡¯s hair, randomly dealing blows, and was actually able to seize a lock of her long hair as loud screeches came from her mouth for who knows what reason.


    However, there was no way Ruan Yu would be the one at the disadvantage as she returned all the kicks and punches back. She saw that her own family¡¯s coachman meant to come over and help and snapped: ¡°You are forbidden from coming over. I will personally beat this shameless person to death.¡±


    The Ruan clan¡¯s coachman could only halt.


    Ruan Zhu straightened the cloth at her chest. Her hatred not having yet subsided, she aimed another kick at the man on the ground.


    Wei Jia had just began to suffer and ominous glint flashed in his eyes at this time. The new animosity added with his old hatreds¨Call of it¨Csurged out in the form of a fierce howl as he threw himself over.


    The Ruan family¡¯s coachman ran over to block him and pressed Wei Jia to the ground before pelting him with blows.


    It has to be said that everything was so coincidental.


    Ruan Zhu had thought she could wait until her husbands had arrived, but she was wrong. They had yet to turn up when the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall first came over in his carriage after morning court. Crossing the stone bridge was necessary for him to return home, so as soon as he saw that the way was blocked, he sent some subordinates to chase away the crowd.


    Once his subordinate saw that his family¡¯s young Miss was on the ground being trounced into an unrecognizable state, he became extremely scared and hastily reported back to the magistrate. As soon as the magistrate heard that his daughter was taking a beating, his temper immediately flared and he got off the carriage. Three steps merged into two as he strode across the stone bridge.


    The crowd had broken off and retreated to the furthest reaches to continuing watching the show, opening up the middle of the bridge. The two Ruan sisters saw that something wasn¡¯t right and they both stopped their hands.


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter saw her own father, and like she had seen her most beloved person in the world, she crawled over and burst into tears.


    ¡°Such outrageous commoners that no longer wish to live.¡± An ominous glint was in the magistrate¡¯s eyes and he shouted at the three patrolling bailiffs: ¡°Push these two wicked people to the ground and break their legs before throwing them inside Shun Tian Hall¡¯s prison.¡±


    The Ruan family¡¯s coachman yelled: ¡°My family¡¯s Eldest Miss is the Princess of Qi and is the current Emperor¡¯s daughter-in-law. You are too daring!¡±


    Those bailiffs saw the magistrate heading over and was just about to do as he had instructed when those words made them not dare move another step. This world that was under the Son of Heaven¡¯s foot was unlike others; it was possible that a random person one met on the streets was a prince of this family or a relative of that prime minister. Because this matter was over their heads , they did not dare to do anything without instruction.


    The Princess of Qi? The magistrate was shocked, then heard his daughter cry out: ¡°He¡¯s lying, they are a merchant family. If you don¡¯t believe me, Pa, listen to Wei Jia. Wei Jia knows about them.¡±


    Wei Jia hastily added: ¡°May Master hear all the facts; I have been raised in their home so all of the people and matters in their home, I understand thoroughly. They really are of a merchant family origin.¡±


    The magistrate was now at ease and smiled grimly: ¡°Break the legs of these two wicked commoners along with those of their family¡¯s servant.¡±


    The subordinates of Shun Tian Hall¡¯s magistrate had received their order and ruthlessly lunged over.


    Ruan Yu rushed over to protect her older sister, but unfortunately, her jack-of-all-trades martial arts skill was no match for them. She was able to avoid an attack but couldn¡¯t dodge the other few¡­¡­


    Right at this moment, a man in a blue gown appeared out of nowhere and made two consecutive slashes with the sword in his hand. The clubs in his opponents¡¯ hands suddenly flew out in a large arc, falling into the flowing river underneath the bridge.


    A cold smile emerged from the eyes of the man dressed in blue. With another stroke of his sword, the back of his blade hit the third assailant¡¯s wrist; the latter couldn¡¯t keep his hold and the club flew out and under the bridge.


    The onlookers standing by far away saw that weapons had been drawn and the clubs were flying about randomly and retreated even more in cowardice that they would be affected.


    The subordinates of the magistrate had all lost their weapons and looked at each other. One of them directed towards the man in the blue gown: ¡°What good can come out of coming to blows with government officials? If I may offer you advice, I suggest you hurry and move aside or else we will have to regard you as a fugitive and take you to prison.¡±


    It was like the man dressed in blue hadn¡¯t heard him at all as he looked towards Ruan Zhu, staring at her with glittering eyes.


    Ruan Zhu did not recognize this man at all. She was clear on how bad her memory was and specifically searched through it yet didn¡¯t find any recollection.


    ¡°Bastards, useless things, so many of you yet you can¡¯t beat one.¡± The magistrate roared out a few sentences: ¡°Xiao Yang Zi, go to Shun Tian Hall and have the constable send over all the men. If this constable doesn¡¯t punish these wicked commoners according to the law today, this magistrate¡¯s position and authority would be in vain.¡±


    ¡°This prince sees that your magistrate¡¯s position and authority is truly in vain.¡±


    A clear voice sounded out from thin air, and a lofty, handsome man strode onto the stone bridge. A black cloak was draped over his back while his entire body was covered in a set of gleaming silver armor. His solid facial features were sharply handsome as if they had been carved by a knife, and the entire person radiated with a princely air of awe.


    Following behind him was the Prince of Yong, Xuananyuan Min Zhi, that similarly exuded a cold and indomitable aura.


    ¡°Lord Husband, you¡¯ve arrived.¡± Ruan Zhu walked over. At this moment, her hairpin was crooked while her hair was in disarray. There were several scratches on her cheek and the cloth at her chest had also been ripped¨Cshe looked battered and exhausted.


    ¡°How did this appearance come to be?¡± Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes were slightly gloomy, and his hand stroked her face: ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Ruan Zhu shook her head and smiled.


    It was only at this time that the magistrate realized he had incited a calamity. He panicked and pulled his daughter along with him as he kneeled and kowtowed, saying ¡®Your Highness, please spare this one¡¯s life.¡¯ The magistrate¡¯s daughter was probably used to being brash and her anger had yet to cool as she continued to say things like ¡®It was your family¡¯s Madam that first hit me.¡¯ She only angrily lowered her head after the magistrate roundly yelled at her.


    Wei Jia had long become so frightened his soul had left his body, and he foolishly stood by the side in a daze. After he had been sold, he had remained as a servant of the magistrate¡¯s family. Others have said ¡®a noble¡¯s residence is as deep as an ocean¡¯[a] and the magistrate¡¯s residence was pretty much the same. During his free time, he had listened to people gossip about how the Prince of Qi had taken a commoner princess and the Prince of Yong¡¯s princess was also an ordinary person. But which family the commoner was from was not what the gossipers were interested in and he had been unable to figure out the princess¡¯s clan name. From this, he understood that a sparrow flying onto a branch and becoming a phoenix was not an illusion, and he had strove even harder to curry favor and received the magistrate¡¯s daughter¡¯s love, which is why he had been accorded the status of a secondary husband.


    Min Zhi saw that there were injuries on his wife¡¯s body and pushed the responsibility of dealing with the aftermath to Zong Zhi. Zong Zhi was a devoted military generalissimo and was in charge of the most elite Fei Sheng army; he held enormous power in his hands and there were not many officers in court that were dismissive of him.


    Min Zhi carried his wife inside the carriage. Ruan Zhu eyes took in the man in blue with a desolate expression as if he was utterly lonely.


    Ruan Yu also made to enter but was stopped by Min Zhi who hurriedly said: ¡°You should just return home on another carriage!¡± He had finally received an opportunity to be alone with his wife. If he let this go, he¡¯d be an idiot.


    Ruan Yu was so angry her eyebrows creased and scolded: ¡°A rotten man who goes into heat as soon as he sees a woman.¡±


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, we¡¯ll wait for you at Tian Yi Pavilion. Come quickly, ah!¡± Seeing Zong Zhi¡¯s agreement, Ruan Zhu moved her head back when her gaze landed on the man in blue again. That man had been staring at her without blinking since the very start.


    After the carriage door had been closed, the vehicle unhurriedly moved along the black slate pavement.


    ¡°Who is he, Min Zhi, do you recognize him?¡±


    ¡°He is Prime Minister Wang¡¯s concubine-born son. Because his biological father is the prime minister¡¯s biological younger brother, he is valued in the clan. Two months ago, Prime Minster Wang gave him the position as a fourth-ranked second-class imperial bodyguard with the responsibility of guarding the front of the imperial palace. I saw him when I visited Emperor-Father¡¯s palace.¡±


    The bastard son of Prime Minister Wang! Ruan Zhu recalled how last night, Xong Zhi had mentioned Prime Minister Wang had requested to send over his son. How could there be such a coincidence? The topic had only been raised last night yet today¡­¡­


    [a] ºîÃÅÉîËƺ£ is a saying that is literally translated above. It basically refers to status disparity. A noble¡¯s home is very large so its gates are tightly guarded, preventing the average person from entering.

 Chapter 94

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi took out a bottle of ning xiang lu and spread it over his wife¡¯s scratched cheeks. Ning xiang lu was the panacea of the imperial clan and was very effective in healing any kind of wound without leaving any scarring. He saw her bird¡¯s nest of hair and reached over to let down her coil before combing it again. Unfortunately, he had no experience with waiting on a person and after he had finished with her hair, he might as well have never combed it as on the contrary, it became even more messy than before.


    Ruan Zhu could not throw aside his intention and pushed him away to personally brush and put her hair into a long ponytail.


    He hugged her, kissing her for a while: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, give birth to a child for me, okay? Zong Zhi and Head Yun all already have children.¡±


    The first time Min Zhi called Yun Shi Yi by his name, Ruan Zhu was unhappy and stubbornly waged a cold war with him for many days. Even when it was his turn in the bedroom, she refused to fulfill her obligations as a wife, making Min Zhi feel incredibly regretful. He then afterwards treated Yun Shi Yi with great respect.


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s position as the principal husband could not be challenged and even the princes could not put on airs towards him. She would ensure the incident with Wei Rong could not occur in her family.


    ¡°A woman¡¯s pregnancy is very difficult so let¡¯s wait a few years. One¡¯s life is not limited to just having children; there are many things one can do and I also want to take a break!¡± Ever since she had stopped breastfeeding, she had them all eat the oral contraceptive. Having another child¨Cshe did not have any such intention for the time being.


    ¡°Ai, fine then. I really can¡¯t say no to you.¡±


    Min Zhi took this opportunity to take advantage of her and slid his hand inside her lapel to grope about. The Heavens knew how it felt to have such an exquisite woman in the prime of her youth sitting on one¡¯s lap; he was bewitched every time. Ruan Zhu¡¯s breathing became unsteady from his touches and she softly persuaded him after feeling a hardness underneath her butt: ¡°Endure it for a little longer. After a few days, it¡¯ll be your turn. We can¡¯t do it here; the coachman will hear.¡±


    Min Zhi¡¯s eyes were heated from passion and he panted: ¡°I¡¯m just touching and won¡¯t go too far.¡±


    Ruan Zhu understood it was very hard for a young and vigorous man who had just experienced the sweetness between a man and a woman to restrain himself and slid her hand into his trousers, gripping that solid and humongous member as she slowly moved back and forth.


    It was hard for Min Zhi to endure his own emotions and he straightened his body in correspondence with her actions. After a moment, his eyes blazed while his face became increasingly redder as he abruptly captured her lips. His left hand wound from behind her back and under her armpit to squeeze her soft breast while his right hand lowered and covered her small hand, rapidly stroking his rod¡­¡­His body trembled at the climax while a series of stifled groans spilled out from his mouth and into hers. Only then was he considered thoroughly relaxed.


    ¡°Is it a little better now?¡± She had continuously been dearly loved by her husbands so seeing them happy also made her happy.


    ¡°Much better, Zhu¡¯er, do you want me to do the same to you? It¡¯ll feel extremely good.¡± A smile was on Min Zhi¡¯s face. After his body had released, he felt like he was flying.


    ¡°No need, Zong Zhi will do it tonight.¡± Rolling in the sheets was a luxury to them. To her, it was something common as she received intimate pleasure in their arms every time that made her feel incomparably carefree.


    She was rather sympathetic to how miserable these men had it in this world where males were the majority and females were the minority. It was nearly a ten to one ratio so how many men were there that couldn¡¯t have wives? And yet homosexuality was also illegal.


    After the capital had been moved to Lan Zhou, the emperor sent down a decree, ordering a large-scale anti-vice campaign. Multiple unlicensed whorehouses that focused on male-male dealings were shut down. The ones involved were banished to a distant army post while the ones with serious offenses were sentenced to death.


    Those pitiful men!


    The carriage traveled for half an hour before it reached Tian Yi Pavilion, where both people got off and headed inside together.


    All of the workers recognized their Boss Lady and respectfully invited her to a private room on the second floor, sending in good tea and refreshments.


    Ruan Zhu remembered what had occurred in the carriage and called for a waiter to bring in water so the married couple could wash their hands.


    Not long after, Yun Shi Yi returned from discussing business outside. He received a shock when he saw the sorry figure his wife cut, and opening the door, called for an assistant to buy a similar outfit from a ready-made clothing store. Finished with his instruction, he closed the door then asked what exactly had happened.


    Ruan Zhu spoke of what happened in a simple manner, angering her husbands so that their faces became dark.


    ¡°This matter is not considered finished with just that.¡± Xuanyuan Min Zhi¡¯s indifferent voice radiated with a righteous coldness that would not allow any objection. It was an imposing manner that could only come from one in a high-ranking position and it was unable to be diminished by the tribulations he had gone through before.


    Yun Shi Yi got up and opened the door, letting the attendant standing by at attention in front of the door to find Yun Shan. Yun Shan was currently his capable assistant and managed the majority of the Yun clan¡¯s projects. After he entered, he bowed respectfully towards the three people in the room and said¨C¡°Greetings to Eldest Young Master, Mistress, Your Highness¡±¨Cthen respectfully retreated to wait for his master¡¯s instruction.


    ¡°Xiao Shan, go to each merchant in the city and pass them this message¨Cwe will no longer be doing any business with Shun Tian Hall¡¯s Magistrate Liu¡¯s family after today, no exception. Do not sell them foodstuffs, silk, or various daily necessities. Anyone who does business with them will have to answer to me, Yun Shi Yi. Henceforth, the Yun clan will no longer provide them with any goods and will refuse any further dealings with their family.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s tone was indifferent yet it carried all of his force. After he had returned to Lan Zhou from the capital, he had fought a resounding battle over foodstuffs, and not only had he earned a considerable sum, he had also gained fame. His reputation in Lan Zhou¡¯s business community had soared and he had even recently partnered with several merchants in building greenhouses. It was unknown how many merchants relied on his enterprise, and the current Yun Shi Yi had enough power to ruin a high-ranking member of the imperial court.


    ¡°May Head be at ease, this small one will immediately convey the message.¡± Yun Shan smiled in response and thought in his heart¨CMistress was currently the imperial consort of two princes so unless those merchants had eaten a leopard¡¯s gall, how would they dare to not listen? He retreated after performing the rites, treating Ruan Zhu especially respectfully.


    ¡°I invited a pastry master who had retired from working in the palace to Tian Yi Pavilion. Have a taste of his work. Unfortunately, the osmanthus flowers were dried in autumn; if they were fresh, the pastries would be even better.¡± Yun Shi Yi picked up a small piece of osmanthus cake with his chopsticks and placed it in front of his wife¡¯s mouth. This flower cake had a very rich osmanthus fragrance¨Cmoist and spongy, sweet and tasty¨Cand it was a food that she had always loved to eat.


    Min Zhi resignedly sat on Ruan Zhu¡¯s other side and drank his wine. He knew that as long as Yun Shi Yi was present, there was nothing for him to do. After he had been sorted out by his wife the first time, he no longer dared to exceed his place.


    ¡°It truly is a master¡¯s craftsmanship as it is indeed very tasty.¡± The cooks in Guan Ju Villa were all master-level, but everyone had their own specialty. In return, Ruan Zhu also picked up a piece of the abalone he loved to eat and placed it into his mouth.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, I also want to eat.¡± Min Zhi looked on with envy.


    Ruan Zhu sent over a soup dumpling filled with lamb over to his lips. Min Zhi yet felt that eating the food his wife personally picked out for him was completely different from the foods he chose himself and especially savored this bite.


    At this time, a shop attendant knocked on the door and entered, bringing the newly-purchased clothes with him. It was not too costly yet still simple and elegant, matching very well with her tastes. Raising her eyes to survey her two husbands, she saw that they were also looking her up and down with shining eyes.


    Her lips pursing up in a smile, she properly bolted the door then changed in front them. The two husbands came over to help and inevitably gained some small profits in the process.


    When Xuanyuan Zong Zhi arrived, Ruan Zhu¡¯s clothes had already been properly put on and her previously-messy hair had also been combed into a neat topknot by Yun Shi Yi.


    ¡°Why did you return alone? Where is my younger sister Ruan Yu?¡± Ruan Zhu took off his large, black wool cloak and used a towel to wipe his hands before pouring a cup of hot tea and handing it over.


    ¡°She said she did not have the face to meet people as she was covered in injuries and went home to treat them. She still plans to go to Ci Ji Hall in two days.¡±


    She still wants to go to Ci Ji Hall? The lass seemed to have come into contact with a demon.


    Zong Zhi took the proffered cup and took a sip, his eyes full of affection for his wife: ¡°The behavior of the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall was of holding the imperial clan in contempt. He is a fourth-rank high official in charge of Lan Zhou so under normal circumstances, I do not have the power to punish him, but I will report this matter to Emperor-Father. Based on the degree of doting Emperor-Father gives you, he should act after full consideration of the the situation. But no matter what, I will not let the magistrate have an easy time; his days as the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall are numbered.¡±


    ¡°How was the magistrate¡¯s daughter dealt with?¡± Min Zhi interrupted to ask. Zong Zhi was unlike him¨Che was only a minor fifth-rank official from Hong Lu Temple, but Zong Zhi was a high official in court that was in command of the most elite troops of the imperial army and had to conform to the rules when dealing with many things. He indifferently said: ¡°If there is nothing you can do about it, I can take care of it. I won¡¯t be too ruthless¨CI just want one of her eyes and one of her ears.¡±


    Zong Zhi sampled his tea and did not respond. The meaning was¨Cyou can handle it however you like; I do not have a differing opinion.


    ¡°Then what about Wei Jia?¡± Ruan Zhu asked.


    ¡°Wei Jia will surely receive heavy punishment. Not only me, even the magistrate despises him completely for stirring up the situation. When I left the stone bridge, the magistrate was in the middle of telling a subordinate to send Wei Jia to a brothel next to the Lan River.¡±


    ¡°I do not have too much ill will against the magistrate; on the contrary, I am thoroughly disgusted with Wei Jia. No decent person would act the way he did¨Cof not thinking to repay back kindness after they¡¯ve received someone¡¯s grace yet actually hit the person when they¡¯re down. Sending him to a brothel, that is also good, but that person knows some methods of pleasing women and I do not wish for him to be involved with someone and inflict another disaster on them.¡±


    Min Zhi slightly smiled: ¡°In order to sever his daughter¡¯s feelings, the magistrate specifically ordered people to carve Wei Jia¡¯s face. He is now extremely hideous and the cuts are so deep that even ning xiang lu can¡¯t cure it.¡±


    Disfigurement? Ruan Zhu was stunned silly and suddenly thought of the Ruan Ju whose appearance had been ruined by a single slash of Min Zhi¡¯s whip. She asked: ¡°Has there been any news recently from Da Jue Mountain about Ruan Ju?¡±


    ¡°Ruan Ju is dead; she died a few days after arriving at Da Jue Mountain. A woman with an appearance like a demon who also cannot give birth¨Cleaving her alive is squandering food. The supervisor had gifted her to the criminals who were excavating stone and she became a corpse in the span of a few days.¡±


    Due to a characteristic element of their bloodline, the Wei clan had a common habit of retaliating towards those who treated them with benevolence! However, Ruan Ju¡¯s death was not one bit wrong.


    ¡°Why is Wife not saying anything? Have you perhaps become softhearted?¡±


    ¡°No, I remembered a story.¡± Ruan Zhu remembered a joke she had read before on the internet in her past life and slowly explained it: ¡°There was a man who, every time he met a beggar on the side of the road to his home, always gave him five taels of silver. Afterwards, he got married and he only gave him two taels of silver; the beggar didn¡¯t say anything. Then later again, he had a child, and only gave the beggar one tael of silver each time. The beggar finally asked him what happened? He answered that he had a child. The beggar became extremely angry and said, ¡®How could you use my money to raise your wife and child?¡¯¡±


    The three men all looked at one another, each one of them finding it ridiculously funny.


    ¡°Big Brother Yun, Big Brother Lu, Min Zhi. I believe a sheng of rice brings gratefulness while a dou of rice brings hatred; sometimes we treat people too well. They then will actually believe the assistance to be heaven¡¯s law and earth¡¯s principle and as soon as we are no longer willing to provide them with help, their gratitude turns into hostility. The Wei clan is a perfect example of this.¡±


    All three men were nodding their heads and Yun Shi Yi added: ¡°What happened with the Wei clan can also be considered a lesson. In the future we must remember them so that similar circumstances must not occur again.¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought about the deaths of Fifth Concubine-Father Lin and his two children that Ruan Ju had caused. That kind of death that she had could be considered her getting off easy. Whoever the Wei family followed, they would meet with misfortune. During the time they had been in the Ruan residence, the Ruan clan was perpetually in a state of commotion. After they left, they caused the deaths of Fifth Concubine-Father Lin and his two children, and Wei Jia had followed the magistrate¡¯s daughter, dragging her father into a whole heap of trouble and perhaps even his position was unable to be saved.


    Thinking of Ruan Zi Xu, Ruan Zhu felt a bit of longing. How luxurious was that word ¡®father¡¯ to her in her past life? It was only from Ruan Zi Xu that she felt a father¡¯s love. She sighed with sorrow: ¡°I don¡¯t know when Papa can come back to Tian Chu?


    She had long thought of herself as Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s biological daughter and Ruan Yu as her biological sister.


    Yun Shi Yi thought for a moment then opened his mouth, directing his words towards his wife: ¡°I am planning on crossing the sea and going to Persia.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was alarmed and gripped his hand: ¡°Why do you have this plan?¡±


    Although the Tang dynasty¡¯s Gao Xian Zhi was defeated in the Battle of Talas, it did not signify the end.[FOOTNOTE HERE, A] After Tian Chu was founded, they sent another large army to besiege the area, and in view of the lessons from the previous defeat, summed up their experiences, established formidable support and backing, and several years later, obtained a major victory. That was only several centuries after Tian Chu had been established and the Middle East had yet to become fully Islamic. Persia and the Arab Caliphate still existed. Though they had also gone through rises and falls of kings and development, they still retained their original ethnicities and cultures.


    Yun Shi Yi gently caressed his wife¡¯s hand as he slowly replied: ¡°What maternal uncle said was right; we should take advantage of our bodies still being young and fit to see more of the world. I wish to establish a trade organization, organizing several dozen large ships to bring aboard Tian Chu¡¯s specialties¨Csilk, tea, porcelain¡­¡­There is also Zong Zhi¡¯s Hua Nong Ying Glass Workshop¡¯s mirrors and glass tools. In short, as long as they can be sold, they all must travel across the sea to Persia. It may be possible to sell a portion of it as we pass through Tian Zhu, then afterwards is Persia and Da Si. If possible, I would also like to go to Da Qin, but it is a little too far and the trip must wait until multiple years in the future when the art of navigation has been completely developed.¡±


    Don¡¯t tell me the age of navigation had shifted ahead in arrival and the initiator was Yun Shi Yi?


    Ruan Zhu slowly stood up and hugged his head: ¡°If you must leave, I can¡¯t stop you. However, you have to make extra preparations¨Cthe ships must be sturdy and durable and be able to resist the stormy sea.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi forced a smile: ¡°Wife, be at ease. I will definitely make comprehensive preparations.¡±


    ¡°There are many pirates in the high seas that specialize in hijacking traveling ships. Big Brother Lu¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu looked towards Zong Zhi, her eyes full of hope: ¡°Doesn¡¯t the imperial court have a navy? Is it possible for them to escort the merchant ships¡­¡­?¡±


    Awkwardness showed in Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes: ¡°Emperor-Father will absolutely not agree to that. Doing work for merchants will cause the dignity of the imperial clan to drop.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not work, it¡¯s¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu shook her head then lowered it as she arranged her train of thought: ¡°It¡¯s a beneficial arrangement for both sides as we can use the endeavor to support the people. The merchants need the naval escort for their safety and they can pay for it like paying taxes. As for the navy supporting the merchants, it can serve as training purposes and can also relieve the imperial court of their military expenditure. It is a move with multiple benefits. The merchants benefit, and so do the imperial court and the imperial navy. During that period, there may be soldiers whose lives are sacrificed in battle, but the merchants must pay to appease the family of the victims. Actually, I feel soldiers are not afraid to risk their lives; instead, they worry that if they¡¯re gone, there will be no one left to provide for their parents and children, so if this back part can be solved, the soldiers would throw themselves onto the battlefield with all their effort.¡±


    Zong Zhi was astonished: ¡°Wife, you think so well. Each taking what he needs; using a battle to support a battle; these are concepts that no one had ever thought of before¨Cyou are the first. How were you able to come up with such a good method? It is very reasonable and Emperor-Father will surely be delighted and willing.¡±


    Min Zhi hugged his wife¡¯s slender waist from the back, joyfully adding: ¡°My wife is a treasure.¡±


    Ruan Zhu smiled: ¡°It¡¯s good that it¡¯s useful. This way, one can be safe on the sea.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi stood up and snaked his arms behind her so that she was pulled entirely into his embrace. Lowering his head, he placed a kiss on those red lips and finally lamented after a good while: ¡°That time when I had wed and brought you to Lan Zhou, I just knew that the choice was correct. The you at that time was only fourteen; the years have flashed by before my eyes and you are now seventeen years of age. After a few more years, Wife, let¡¯s have another child!¡±


    Returning to Guan Ju Villa, after a few days, the new year quickly approached. Ruan Zhu was currently rushing to prepare new clothes for her several husbands as well as the gifts for each household.


    At this time, the small palace eunuch, Xing Yun, came to report that Magistrate Liu of Shun Tian Hall has come with his daughter to beg for forgiveness.


    [a] The Battle of Talas was a clash between the Abbasid Caliphate and the Chinese Tang dynasty in Talas (modern Kazakhstan) that resulted in the latter¡¯s loss and marked the end of Tang westward expansion. (Wikipedia) Gao Xian Zhi was the Korean-born general for the Tang dynasty. (Wikipedia)

 Chapter 95

    The magistrate and his daughter came to apologize? Ruan Zhu thought for a moment then had Xing Yun take the guests to Liu Shuang Pavilion, where visitors were received. She then stepped inside Yi Zhu Cottage and let Nuan Chun tidy up her clothes and hairstyle so she could receive the visitors¡­¡­


    Shun Tian Hall¡¯s magistrate, old man Liu, was around fifty years of age and came from a wealthy background. He had become accustomed to seeing large displays of nobility throughout his life but still became dizzy as the magnificence of Guan Ju Villa entered his eyes.


    The father and daughter pair had been led by Xing Yun to the east and then the west. Along the way, they passed a wondrous standing stone forest; traveled on winding, remote paths; saw a pavilion with arched roofs¡­¡­there were fantastic oddities of every description that made one associate them with the word ¡®elegant.¡¯ The bold ancient cedars, cypresses and pines on the mountains further increased the wild aspect of the mountain forest. The rock garden outside the paths were fantastically shaped; the lush green of the xiangfei bamboo; howthe plum blossom trees fell over each other in their eagerness to show off their splendor¡­¡­seeing all of this, they were dazzled as it was truly a feast for the eyes.


    The gardens of this era were still in the primitive stages. Ruan Zhu had drawn from the landscaping of the future so it was no wonder they were amazed.


    The two people followed behind Xing Yun¡¯s footsteps and arrived at Liu Shuang Pavilion. Immediately upon entering, they saw a long, snow white wool rug. Eyeing their muddy shoes, they froze, not daring to step inside. A palace eunuch came forward, offering them wooden sandals to change into and they finally stepped on the springy rug as some servants came in with some already-steeped tea.


    ¡°Sir, please take a seat. My family¡¯s niangniang will arrive shortly.¡±


    ¡°Oh oh, all right¡­¡­¡± Old man Liu had become a little nervous from seeing Guan Ju Villa¡¯s exotic landscape as these kinds of things were also hard to find in the gardens managed by the Emperor. Hearing Xing Yun¡¯s words, he sat down. The seat was incredibly soft, like he was sitting on a very thick wad of cotton. He poked at it a few times in curiosity, not knowing what it was made out of.


    On the table were glass items that were worth who knows how much¨Creally too extravagant. Looking at their surroundings, the more they saw, the more odd they found it and they couldn¡¯t resist standing up.


    ¡°Pa, look.¡± His daughter pushed him.


    Old man Liu turned around and saw a glass mirror over a meter tall embedded into a wall that clearly reflected the images of the people in the room. He also had a glass mirror in his family that was only the size of one¡¯s palm yet its worth was over a hundred taels of silver. He had never seen a mirror this large before. Taking another look, he saw that the windows on all four walls were inlaid with transparent glass and those curtains all trailed to the ground with a color that was also extremely pleasing to the eye.


    Liu Shuang Pavilion¡¯s design was in accordance with Ruan Zhu¡¯s idea of integrating the eastern and western styles into one.


    The curtains were of a European design in beige and light brown, super aesthetic.


    Hanging from the ceiling was a large, two square meter colored glass lamp. Its tassels were spread out in three layers. This era did not have wallpaper, but Ruan Zhu had servants glue a layer of silk patterned with silver butterflies against dark flowers on all four walls. When she examined it, it looked better than real wallpaper.


    A circular paired-half-moon bogu rack was against one wall. The frame was made up of dozens of beautiful lattices, all extremely fine. Every shelf was filled with either curios, porcelain, or all kinds of other novel items.


    Ë«°ëÔ²²©¹Å¼Ü Circular paired-half-moon bogu rack


    The chair that old man Liu had just sat on was a classic chaise lounge stuffed with natural sponge from the Yellow Sea. It was something that did not exist in this period so it wasn¡¯t surprising that he was so astonished.


    Miss Liu was full of envy and admiration towards the large hanging lamp on the ceiling, the big mirror on the wall, and the chair she was currently sitting on. It was like she was Granny Lu visiting the Grand View garden[a] as she foolishly stared at everything around her, looking there, looking here, her insolent and haughty attitude yesterday on the stone bridge nowhere to be found.


    Ruan Zhu led the servants into Liu Shuang Pavilion, where Nuan Chun took off her fox fur cloak, revealing her snow-white satin top and pale pink long skirt, all in a classical style, elegant and fashion-conscious. It was something that she had personally designed and had Nuan Chun make.


    Two small palace eunuchs carried over two plates of fruit and set them on the glass side table. Old man Liu looked at them and became startled. On the plate were cut-up pieces of watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries¡­¡­To be able to eat these fresh fruits in the middle of winter was inconceivable. He had long heard that Guan Ju Villa had a greenhouse that could grow fruits and vegetables of all four seasons and that it was all the Princess of Qi¡¯s invention. She truly was a talented person; it was no wonder even His Majesty extremely favored this daughter-in-law. He had indeed been blind to offend her.


    As for Miss Liu, her eyes had remained glued on the plates of fruit. Her elders were sitting, thus she did not have the right to sit as well. She had only been able to sit for a slight moment before Ruan Zhu had entered and had felt the wonderful sensation of the cushions, but she could only stand at this moment. Staring at the plate of fresh fruit, her hand couldn¡¯t resist stretching forward but old man Liu shot her a quick glare and she could only pout and give up.


    The several few small palace eunuchs all exposed mocking eyes.


    ¡°Idiot.¡± Old man Liu saw their looks and couldn¡¯t resist lowly berating her as he became even more angry at his daughter¡¯s rudeness. They were here to humbly apologize so how could he ignore manners?


    Miss Liu snorted. Towards Guan Ju Villa, she was full of both hatred and envy.


    ¡°Greetings to niangniang, this lowly official humbly presents himself.¡±


    Old man Liu lead his daughter in kneeling down and kowtowing. Normally, there was no need for him to formally pay his respects but this time was full of misery as he had offended this living ancestor. These few days had dragged by like it was a year and they were simply not days that a person could live through. The day before yesterday, he had been removed from his post of the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall by the Emperor and given a lower fifth-rank title without any authority or power to manage the Economic Bureau. That was fine, but while he was eyeing the approaching end of the year, he became isolated from the merchants in the capital and did not have any solution to the calendars he was supposed to gift to the Emperor and each branch of the government. He was afraid he would not be able to survive this next year.


    Old man Liu had his daughter take out a gift box and deferentially raised it up.


    Not even looking at it, Ruan Zhu sent Liu Shui to accept it.


    ¡°Sir magistrate is too courteous, please rise and take a seat if you have something to say!¡± Ruan Zhu had long known old man Liu had been demoted and she purposefully addressed him as such to not give him any face. She directed towards the palace eunuchs standing by at attention: ¡°Liu Shui, pour some tea for sir magistrate.¡±


    ¡°Thanking niangniang.¡± Old man Liu once again sat on the soft sofa. He was really too curious and couldn¡¯t help but to move his buttocks from side to side.


    Ruan Zhu saw the old man¡¯s behavior and knew she had achieved the effect she was going for. When faced with people that did not know the immensity of heaven and earth[b], one had to suppress their arrogance. The level of Liu Shuang Pavilion was extremely high, and ordinarily, only the Emperor and other such noble guests were qualified to enter. The Empress Dowager had visited once before and praised the chaise lounge without cease and had also demanded one for herself.


    Ruan Zhu had then called the several craftsmen in the residence to make a few more and sent them into the palace. The Emperor, Empress Dowager, Empress, and a few privileged secondary husbands had received one. Currently, the ones in the palace could be proud of using sofas and spring mattresses, and even the Empress who had always been dismissive of Ruan Zhu, had changed her impression of her.


    ¡°Is there a reason why the noble and honorable sir magistrate, who has willingly fallen from grace, has come to my humble abode?¡±


    Willingly fallen from grace! Old man Liu forced a bitter smile, not daring to take that description for himself: ¡°It is this lowly one who had eyes yet failed to recognize Mount Tai. Lard had covered this lowly one¡¯s mind, causing this lowly one to have been crude and contradicted niangniang. Begging niangniang to be a person of great moral stature and forget the offenses this one of low morals have committed; begging niangniang to forgive this lowly one once.¡±


    Ruan Zhu showed off an innocent expression: ¡°Why does sir magistrate say these words? I have not gone through anything?¡±


    Old man Liu forced a smile: ¡°Niangniang, the pot at this lowly official¡¯s home can almost no longer be lifted as there is no one in the city that is willing to sell anything to this lowly official. But even then, the matter of food is easy to handle as it can be requested, and if none comes, then this lowly one can ask some relatives for help. However, the end of the year is almost upon us and the holiday gifts for the Emperor and each of the official branches has yet to be settled, may niangniang please look¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu was surprised: ¡°Why is it like this? Is it that you do not have the coin? If so, I can assist you. Although I cannot give too much, I can still take out a thousand taels of silver.¡±


    ¡°Niangniang, it is not a question of coin; it is the merchants in the city who are unwilling to sell us anything.¡±


    ¡°Oh, so it is the merchants who are unwilling to work with you. However, that is not under my control as I am not one of those businessmen.¡± Ruan Zhu feigned difficulty.


    Old man Liu sullenly said: ¡°Niangniang, this lowly official¡¯s daughter had injured your honorable body and the crime is deserving of death. When I returned home that day, I firmly taught her a lesson and also had the trouble-making Wei Jia sold into a brothel, may niangniang have a look¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu quickly glanced at the daughter of the magistrate who had been so insolent a few days prior and did not respond.


    Old man Liu was helpless and yelled at his daughter in a stern voice: ¡°You useless creature who only knows how to play with men all day long and invited disaster! Raising such a black-hearted evil like you has now affected this father! You still have the face to stand? Kneel down this instant!¡±


    The magistrate¡¯s daughter had been accustomed to being arrogant since small, so after being scolded by her father, she became enraged. Rolling her eyes at the Princess of Qi in the main seat, she kneeled on the ground in a huff.


    Old man Liu was in such a rage his whiskers stuck straight out: ¡°You evil creature, what had I told you at home? You still dare to cause trouble for this father?!¡±


    If the magistrate¡¯s daughter was here to apologize, not even one of the palace eunuchs standing by in attention would believe that and they revealed looks of disgust one after the other.


    Ruan Zhu ignored the father-daughter pair and picked up her porcelain tea cup for a sip. Frowning, she threw the tea inside away: ¡°Where did this tea come from? Why has it not been cooked to maturity?¡±


    Liu Shui bowed in reply: ¡°Responding to niangniang, it was what the Madam and daughter of the Imperial Hanlin Academy¡¯s compiler Li Tong Ren sent over the day before yesterday especially for niangniang to try. Niangniang was not home that day and this slave believed it was just a small matter and did not mention it.¡±


    The compiler of Imperial Hanlin Academy was a lower sixth-rank post and the servants of Guan Ju Villa had become accustomed to meeting all sorts of people. Their eyes now looked far ahead and they absolutely hadn¡¯t considered that meeting as something significant.


    ¡°Someone coming to pay us a visit means our family¡¯s relationships with others is good; this cannot be a small matter, correct?¡±


    Liu Shui hastened to bow and replied: ¡°This slave understands. However, this slave was not lacking in manners and took out three catties of fresh vegetables and fruits from the large shed as a return gift. When the madam of Li Tong Ren received it, she was very delighted.¡±


    Ruan Zhu smiled: ¡°You, this child, is still capable; handling it like that was very good. It is clear that you understand how to do things.¡± She swept a glance to the side, with the meaning being there were people present who did not understand how things were done!


    Liu Shui naturally caught what niangniang was referring to and added: ¡°What niangniang said is true; they truly are devoid of sense.¡±


    Old man Liu was greatly embarrassed. There was no meaning in staying any longer, and he took the initiative to say goodbye.


    Ruan Zhu did not wish to let the magistrate¡¯s family off this easily; she wanted to first give them the cold shoulder for a few more months before deciding what to do. Seeing that they were leaving, she performed the rites towards them and had Xing Yun and Liu Shui prepare a pair of glass vases as well as two watermelons as return gifts and sent them to their carriage. Glass vases and watermelons were common items in her residence but they were extremely rare in others¡¯. It was like old man Liu had received a great advantage as he hurriedly bowed in thanks.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, look.¡± Nuan Chun carried over the gift the magistrate had given for her to see.


    Inside the box was a pair of porcelain bottles made from the Jun kiln. The glaze was very thick and the coloring was like smoke¨Cwith one glance, it was obvious it had been manufactured from a famous kiln: ¡°Not bad, take it to the storeroom!¡±


    Qu Gao and He Gua were currently Zong Zhi¡¯s capable assistants and managed a large amount of businesses, including Tian Wang Embassy and Hua Nong Ying Glass Factory. Xing Yun and Liu Shui had then replaced their duty of serving others.


    The Ruan family¡¯s Steward Yang was still in charge of the Ruan clan¡¯s matters.


    Because Yun Shi Yi¡¯s business had expanded, Yun Shan and Yun Feng had gone to help as his assistants.


    The duty of managing Guan Ju Villa was currently Nuan Chun¡¯s. He was loyal and did things in an orderly manner.


    The year passed in a flash and she was incessantly busy from the first day of the new year to the fifteenth from participating in the palace¡¯s banquets to visiting various clans. They also had to invite the colleagues of Zong Zhi¡¯s and Min Zhi¡¯s for a feast at their residence and Yun Shi Yi¡¯s connections could also not be exempted. There were gatherings every day¨Cone after the other¨Clike a paper carousel lantern[c]. It caused Ruan Zhu to become to tired that as soon as she returned home each night, she would throw herself onto the bed, immediately falling asleep.


    Entering the second lunar month, the weather gradually warmed.


    Yun Shi Yi began preparing for his ocean voyage and recruited partners through all of Tian Chu in a join-stock manner. Visionary businessmen understood there were large benefits to be had in overseas trade; furthermore, there was also the imperial navy acting as an escort, and they did not need to worry about safety.


    Prior to this, there had often been daring merchants who had braved the seas to sell their goods in the distant India and Persia but had then frequently been robbed by sea pirates and subsequently lost their lives. Now, the probability of danger had sharply decreased and quite a few people¡¯s hearts were moved and they brought money, men, and ships as they joined the endeavor.


    The time frame would be at least a year. In the month before Yun Shi Yi expected departure, Ruan Zhu resided with him. When she had free time, she carefully wrapped up his clothes for all four seasons as well as the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone he had become accustomed to using.


    ¡°Wife, think about what you want; I¡¯ll bring it back for you.¡± Yun Shi Yi pulled his wife into his arms for a kiss. Thinking about how he would soon have to go, reluctance emerged in his heart.


    ¡°I want India¡¯s chili peppers and spices and Persia¡¯s sapphires.¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyebrows lowered as she thought for a moment: ¡°Bring back all of the foreign books you see that discuss astronomy, geography, arithmetic, agriculture, and industry. Also bring back their respective translators. All of those are good items and crucial to the development of our country. They are much more valuable than silver.¡±


    The future¡¯s science and technology were all kept in some state of confidentiality and the ancient people had not yet realized the importance of science.


    Yun Shi Yi was confused: ¡°What are chili peppers? And what are spices?¡±


    Ruan Zhu explained what chili peppers and spices were to him and drew out some pictures for him after finding a brush: ¡°It can be assumed that the people of India also do not know how to eat chili peppers. They may view them as an ornamental plant and grow them in flower pots. You can just bring back the matured seeds.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi brought her to the bed and stripped both of them of their clothes. Extinguishing the lights, he embraced her.


    In the third lunar month, the weather was bright and sunny. On this day, over fifty large ships were gathered on the dock of Lan River.


    Yun Shi Yi hugged and kissed his son Zhi Xi and then did it all over again before he very reluctantly let him go. Ruan Zhu tried her hardest to restrain her tears: ¡°Be at ease, I will take care of our child and wait for you return.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi¡¯s eyes were filled with love: ¡°Wife, I heard that Prime Minster Wang wants to send over one of his sons into our family. I have sent people to investigate that person¡¯s background and reportedly, it isn¡¯t bad. If there is the opportunity, you might as well accept him!¡±


    Ruan Zhu remembered the man in blue on the stone bridge and responded: ¡°This matter should still wait until you¡¯ve returned.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi sighed: ¡°Don¡¯t wait. Delay brings about change. There a quite a few eyes fixed on this position, hmm? In the case that a troublesome one enters, then it would be problematic.¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought of Wei Rong and nodded: ¡°Okay then!¡±


    Once the sacrifices to the Heavens were made, the firecrackers were set off, and the ones going on the journey bid farewell to their loved ones as they successively boarded the ships.


    The large ships left the harbor one after the other as they sailed towards their distant destination¡­¡­.


    When it was Yun Shi Yi¡¯s turn to leave the port, he looked towards his wife and child on the dock, waving his arm nonstop as he incessantly looked at them, all the way until he could no longer see them¡­¡­He then turned his head towards the vast sea where the edges couldn¡¯t be seen¡­..


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Without Yun Shi Yi by her side, the days seemed to have become tranquil.


    During this period, Ruan Yu was visibly dejected When Ruan Zhu discovered something was wrong, she called Xing Yun and Liu Shui to set up refreshments in the Shui Xie Ark on Bi Qing pond .


    Shui Xie Ark was an attraction of Guan Ju Villa. A highly elegant and unusual pavilion had been erected on top of the crystal clear pond. To the east of the pavilion was a suspended wooden walkway that was over fifty meters long and reached the shore in a straight line.


    Ruan Yu elegantly entered Shui Xie Ark and sat down, silently drinking osmanthus wine. Ruan Zhu couldn¡¯t help but to become puzzled: ¡°Yu¡¯er, what happened to make you, a honorable daughter who had never known of human suffering, to turn into a dumb goose?¡±


    Ruan Yu remained silent for a good while. Looking at her sister, she finally spoke after another moment: ¡°I know that person¡¯s name.¡±


    That person? Ruan Zhu stared blankly at her for a short period of time and then remembered the man that Ruan Yu had continuously liked. ¡°What is that person¡¯s background?¡± Seeing her younger sister remain taciturn, she couldn¡¯t help from guessing: ¡°Don¡¯t tell me he is a pirate on the high seas? An escaped convict? A recurring flower thief?¡±


    Ruan Yu¡¯s face was not pleased: ¡°It is nearly the same as a flower thief; he is a courtesan.¡±


    A courtesan! ¡°What is his name?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that it¡¯s Shen Zhong Yun.¡±


    Shen Zhong Yun of the Four Great Masters. She had heard this man was quite talented and his skill with the sword was very high. ¡°Do you intend to give up?¡±


    Ruan Yu dully repeated: ¡°He is a courtesan.¡±


    ¡°There are also good courtesans, right?¡± Those talented and good-looking men were proud and arrogant for the most part and sold their skill instead of themselves. If it was the future, they would all be among the ranks of normal artists.


    The Liu Shui standing at the side interrupted their conversation: ¡°Niangniang, Second Miss, please forgive this slave for speaking out of turn. This Shen Zhong Yun¡¯s origin, this slave knows a bit. He is not considered a genuine courtesan. His family opened a brothel and for the sake of having good business, they pushed him out as one of the Four Great Masters, when in reality, he does not do that sort of work.¡±


    Ruan Zhu remarked: ¡°Shen Zhong Yun¡¯s parents are truly too terrible. Isn¡¯t this ruining their son¡¯s reputation for his entire lifetime?¡±


    [a] ÀÑÀѽø´ó¹ÛÔ°Ò»Ñù, saying that means a simple person being overwhelmed by new experiences and luxurious surroundings.


    [b] ²»ÖªÌì¸ßµØºñ, saying translated literally above that means, one has an exaggerated opinion of one¡¯s own abilities


    [c] ×ßÂíµÆ is exactly like described¨Ca paper lantern that rotates like a carousel that usually has horses drawn on it.

 Chapter 96

    Glossary


    ʱ³½ | sichen |time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    There were several very well-known brothels on the banks of Lan River. Because Mei Qing Lou had two of the Four Great Masters in Lu Piao Xiang and Wan Zi Yu, they had continuously ranked first among all of the brothels. But several years ago after the departure of Lu Piao Xiang, their reputation had gradually decreased and their positional rank was then replaced by You Xiang Pavilion. However, the Pavilion¡¯s Shen Zhong Yun was a useless one; female patrons flocked over because of his reputation but they never saw his shadow. As a result, they voiced their complaints and the Pavilion¡¯s front courtyard was soon deserted. Their main bread-winning mister was not very popular so for a lack of a better option, the boss spent an enormous sum to buy Feng Qing Bai from Qi Meng Garden.


    In consideration of the ruckus from last time, Ruan Zhu brought along Xing Yun and Liu Shui. Because Nuan Chun stayed in the residence every day taking care of steward duties and tidying accounts books, she was afraid he would become a fool from being stuck indoors all day and had also pulled him outside.


    It was possible to travel upstream from Guan Ju Villa to You Xiang Pavilion and it was only a distance of twenty minutes, but the time frame was enough for Ruan Zhu to understand the origin of her younger sister¡¯s gloominess.


    ¡°During that time we moved to Lan Zhou, I stayed bored at home every day because I did not have any friends so would often go to Ci Ji Hall to donate some clothes, silver, and whatnot. One day when I was exiting Ci Ji Hall, I wanted to stroll around when heavy rain suddenly poured down and I searched for a residence¡¯s eaves¡­¡­¡± Ruan Yu spoke up to here and lifted her eyes to peek at her sister.


    ¡°You can¡¯t have met without any reason; there must some story here.¡± Ruan Zhu nodded understandingly and spoke on her behalf: ¡°Thus, that Shen Zhong Yun also approached to avoid the rain?¡±


    Ruan Yu gave her a displeased glance: ¡°Shen Zhong Yun had already been there to avoid the rain. I was the one that arrived after.¡±


    Ruan Zhu saw that she had stopped the conversation: ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°And then¡­¡­and then it was avoiding the rain¡­¡­When the rain stopped, we each went on our way¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu looked at her in surprise: ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it.¡± Ruan Yu looked at her in a huff and angrily said: ¡°What else did you think happened? Don¡¯t be so dirty-minded.¡±


    She of course would not mention what she had experienced during that time. That man with such a simple and elegant air, in order to not let her be soaked, had yielded the majority of the space to her. His clothes had then consequently become wet on one side but he had still carried a gentle and relaxed smile.


    The heavy rain had poured down for half a sichen; they had stood there together for half a sichen.


    He had occasionally glanced over at her and her heart had been full of happiness as she could see that he liked her. Or at least didn¡¯t dislike her.


    Before they had parted, she had summoned her courage and clearly revealed that she would come again.


    But afterwards, she had waited in front of Ci Ji Hall multiple times and never saw him.


    She had never believed in love at first sight before and had thought it was just something in picture books used to trick little children. But since meeting him, she sometimes felt bubbly, sometimes dejected, like she was happy or sad, and she became troubled and perplexed by all of those moods and emotions.


    She knew there must have been a reason why he had appeared at that time and she finally saw him one day walking out of a residence in the vicinity of Ci Ji Hall.


    At that time, she had been on a carriage, and felt both excited and nervous, not at all like herself. She had instructed the coachman to trail behind all the way outside of the city and saw him enter a brothel on the banks of the Lan River with her own eyes. It was only after she asked around that she figured out which family¡¯s courtesan he was¨CShen Zhong Yun.


    She had been extremely dejected at the time. Mother had accepted Wei Rong and it had caused her family to not be like a family.


    Her parents had always argued to no end and she had never obtained a mother¡¯s love since small. Her eldest sister had been framed and subsequently forced into a distant marriage at the young age of fourteen. For a mister of a brothel to appear in her life¨Cthinking about it only filled her with dread.


    You Xiang Pavilion was constructed by the water. The courtyard was not large but the building was very unusual and could be considered grandly magnificent so it was no wonder they could force their way into among the industry¡¯s best.


    Ruan Zhu handed several taels of silver to the pimp at the door and pulled her sister inside while Nuan Chun, Xing Yun, and Liu Shui hurried to catch up behind them.


    The brothel keeper was a fifty-some year old man and once he discovered that two ornately dressed females in the prime of their youth had come and were also generous, he realized that they were wealthy patrons and personally came to welcome them. A big smile was on his face: ¡°Have these two misses come here before or is this your first time? There are indeed skilled and mature men here, this little one will help you find some.¡±


    Ruan Yu had never come to this sort of place before and inevitably was unable to let go of her emotions. Thus, she hid behind her sister and kept silent.


    Ruan Zhu glanced him up and down a few times. He was clearly a rather old man yet dressed in a very flowery and flashy style with a large safflower next to his temple. The overall look was similar to a ladyboy seen in movies from Hong Kong. ¡°There¡¯s no need for that as we are not looking for skilled and mature men. We are searching for Shen Zhong Yun.¡±


    The brothel keeper¡¯s face changed: ¡°So you are actually here to make fun of me. Forgive me for not having any martial arts to entertain you with. If there is nothing else, please leave; I still have business to do!¡±


    Ruan Zhu indicated to Nuan Chun with a glance. Ever since this bedwarmer of hers found out his master had come to visit a brothel, his expression had been ugly. He threw several silver banknotes on the table, seemingly in anger. Ruan Zhu saw the brothel keeper was still hesitating and also had Nuan Chun take out a pair of glass vases and a glass mirror inlaid with precious stones on one side from among the packages they had brought along.


    The brothel keeper¡¯s eyes were shiny and he stretched out his hand but was obstructed by the circular fan in Ruan Zhu¡¯s palm. She swept her eyes at him: ¡°Call out Shen Zhong Yun or you will not be able to take a single one.¡±


    The brothel keeper stared at the items on the table for a while before finally speaking after yet another moment had passed: ¡°He does not receive guests. How about this small one replaces him with another mister for you two misses? The misters here are all very excellent. I can call Feng Qing Bai over; his talent and fame is not worse than Shen Zhong Yun.¡±


    Ruan Zhu remembered that You Xiang Pavilion¡¯s Shen Zhong Yun had been forced into the brothel by his parents and there was a connection between the two: ¡°What is the relationship between you and Shen Zhong Yun?¡±


    The brothel keeper was flabbergasted: ¡°Everyone who comes here knows Shen Zhong Yun is my son.¡±


    ¡°Biological?¡± Seeing the other party node, she mocked him: ¡°Oh, then your son is truly unfortunate.¡±


    Father Shen became embarrassed and remained silent.


    Knocks came from outside and a small manservant entered to report that Madam Huang from Lan Zhou¡¯s prefectural magistrate had arrived in You Xiang Pavilion and was currently sitting in the lounge, demanding for Feng Qing Bai and Shen Zhong Yun by name to accompany her. Asking what Master would like to do?


    ¡°Madam Huang? Why is it her again? You go call for Qing Bai first to block her.¡± Father Shen was vexed and turned his head towards the two sisters: ¡°My apologies, I still have some matters so will leave first. Please take a seat for a moment.¡±


    After he had finished saying that to the two sisters, he opened the door and left while grumbling: ¡°She really believes herself to be the prefectural magistrate¡¯s madam. The men in her family had long been demoted eight motherfucking hundred years ago.¡±


    The office of a prefectural magistrate was outside of a province¡¯s official position. After the emperor had moved the capital, he had once again shuffled the ministers in his court, and two months ago, there was a large group of officials that had either been relieved of their posts or demoted. Lan Zhou¡¯s prefectural magistrate sir Huang was among them. From a lower fourth-rank prefectural magistrate position, he had dropped two levels and was now a lower fifth-rank reader-in-waiting.


    Nowadays, there were plenty of big fish in Lan Zhou, from the imperial family in the Ci Zhu Palace to every single official. A lower fifth-rank reader-in-waiting had neither power or authority, and there was not a single bit of advantage that could be had from currying favor with them. If Father Shen had not continuously reaped the benefits through Madam Huang¡¯s constant visits to You Xiang Pavilion, he would have long ignored her.


    Ruan Yu stood up: ¡°Eldest Sister, let¡¯s return to Guan Ju Villa!¡±


    Ruan Zhu understood her feelings. Any person who discovered their sweetheart lived under this kind of circumstance wouldn¡¯t feel well.


    ¡°Returning is also good.¡± Ruan Zhu pushed the door open and took the lead in exiting yet ran into an extraordinarily handsome man in the corridor.


    Once that man saw Ruan Zhu, he immediately became stunned silly and completely forgot what he had come out to do.


    ¡°It¡¯s you¡­¡­the young Madam that recited poetry in the plum blossom forest.¡±


    Only after he said that did Ruan Zhu recall that she had came across this person near the end of last year in the plum blossom forest¨CFeng Qing Bai. At that time, she had been put into a hard position by the prefectural magistrate¡¯s madam and had been forced to recite poetry. It just so happened that he had also been present. Not even giving him a glance, she detoured around the man. She had come into contact with too many men, causing her to understand a principle that was precisely¨Cif she did not have any feelings towards someone, then she should spend less time with them so that misunderstandings would not rise.


    As for Ruan Yu, it was like she was afraid there were germs on his body as she avoided him in an even larger swerve. Because of Wei Rong¡¯s situation, she extremely loathed all the misters from the brothel. If it wasn¡¯t for her feeling so stressed about that name imprinted in her heart, she would have never stepped foot in a brothel.


    The situation was very coincidental as Madam Huang just so happened to be lead upstairs by the small manservant at that time.


    ¡°Where have these untouchables come from to not even know to kneel when meeting this madam?¡± Madam Huang had been put on the spot twice by Ruan Zhu and had long hated her. She coldly stared at her and naturally would not let her have it easy.


    ¡°Audacious!¡± Not even waiting for Ruan Zhu to speak out, the two palace eunuchs at her side rushed forward. Xing Yun raised his palm and¨Cpa pa pa¨Csuccessively sent several slaps to her face. Madam Huang¡¯s white and tender cheeks immediately swelled like steamed buns.


    Liu Shui lifted his leg and aimed it at the bend in her legs, causing her footing to become unsteady, and she kneeled in the corridor.


    Madam Huang had been beaten until blood dripped from her nose and mouth. She spat out a tooth and yelled out: ¡°All of you are tired of living to dare hit someone with a title from the imperial court! My man is Lan Zhou¡¯s prefectural magistrate and I am the prefectural magistrate¡¯s madam!¡±


    ¡°Truly pathetic. You¡¯re still thinking of yourself as having the identity of the madam of the prefectural magistrate?¡± Ruan Zhu advanced forward a few steps, a trace of ridicule found in her clear eyes: ¡°Your man is currently a lower fifth-rank reader-in-waiting at the Imperial Hanlin Academy so based on that, you are the madam of a lower fifth-rank reader-in-waiting. However, even if you are madam of a fourth-rank prefectural magistrate, how many catties is that worth? In my eyes, you are nothing.¡±


    The several attendants that had arrived with Madam Huang all panicked.


    ¡°Something extremely disastrous has just happened, the madam has been hit. Hurry and return home to have Master bring over some people to arrest the offender.¡±


    ¡°Master is currently not the prefectural magistrate; it¡¯s better to go to the yamen and report this.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s first tie up the troublemakers and bring them to the yamen.¡±


    Father Shen was currently in a panic as Madam Huang had been beaten in his home. He could not assume this responsibility so he absolutely could not let these two young misses walk away free. As a result, he commanded the hired thugs in the brothel to intercept them.


    The second floor¡¯s corridor became clamorous and blows began to be exchanged between Xing Yun and Liu Shui versus the attendants that had followed Madam Huang. Both sides were a little skilled in martial arts and fought very fiercely. After a short moment, the outcome of the battle couldn¡¯t be seen.


    ¡°I will kill you!!¡±


    A bellow of rage suddenly sounded out and a young male with an ugly appearance wildly charged at Ruan Zhu with a piercing dagger. Nuan Chun was right by her and instinctively raised his hand, waving it. The edge of the blade slid over his skin and he only felt a chilly sensation.


    Ruan Zhu saw a dazzling spray of blood fly¨CNuan Chun had been injured.


    The knife-wielding assaulter was actually Wei Jia!


    After his face had been carved by the magistrate of Shun Tian Hall, he had been sold to a brothel. Everyone here ignored him and he was often mistreated by some perverted female patrons. Every day was like death and the hatred that he felt towards the members of the Ruan clan was a loathing that was engraved in his bone marrow.


    Seeing this, Ruan Yu became unspeakably anxious but she had been besieged by the hired thugs of the brothel and had no means to get away.


    Seeing that Wei Jia seemed to have lost his mind, Ruan Zhu ran while pulling Nuan Chun. During this incredibly desperate situation¡­¡­Feng Qing Bai rushed out of the room, lifting a mahogany chair in his hands and smashed it down on Wei Jia¡¯s face. This one blow was with all of his strength and no one would have been able to bear it.


    Wei Jia didn¡¯t even make a sound as he fell down the stairs, dying on the spot.


    Ruan Yu saw that her sister was now free of danger and released her breath but suddenly felt pain in her ribs. It turned out she had borne the brunt of a kick and she staggered forwards a few steps, just about to fall. She vaguely sensed a person dashing over and pulling her into his arms.


    ¡°It¡¯s you!¡± The emotions that Ruan Yu had suppressed for a long time stirred as she directly stared at the man close at hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, I¡¯ll take you away from here.¡± Shen Zhong Yun hugged the woman in his arms. Toes pressing against the ground, he flew downstairs and then with another tap, made a few more leaps and left You Xiang Pavilion in a blink of an eye.


    Ruan Zhu saw that her younger sister had been taken away and the color in her face immediately changed. Feng Qing Bai explained: ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine. He¡¯s Shen Zhong Yun, our young master. The man is very good.¡±


    So it turns out that man was precisely Shen Zhong Yun! From the side of her eyes, she saw that blood was still trickling out from Nuan Chun¡¯s wrist and immediately became frightened out of her wits. She hastily used her fingers to feel Nuan Chun¡¯s pulse. Having lost this much blood, she was afraid a major artery had been injured.


    Liu Shui threw off his attacker and angrily said: ¡°All of you blind and wicked civilians! Our family¡¯s niangniang is but the Prince of Qi¡¯s imperial consort and the current Emperor¡¯s daughter-in-law. If by chance a single strand of hair of hers is lost, all of you in the brothel will pay with your life!¡±

 Chapter 97

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    One of Ruan Zhu¡¯s hands pressed down on Nuan Chun¡¯s wrist to prevent his blood from continuously flowing out while her other hand tightly wound a handkerchief around his wound. Seeing that he was still bleeding, she hurriedly ripped off a corner of her skirt and wrapped it multiple times around his hand until the blood finally stopped spilling out.


    Her eyes flashed with clear worry. If by chance a major artery had been cut, it would be disastrous as he could lose his life in fifteen minutes. Were the medical skills of the ancient era advanced enough to be able to suture blood vessels? No, Nuan Chun would surely not die¨Cthere were so many with broken arms and broken legs who were able to live well afterwards. Wasn¡¯t it just a wound to a blood vessel?


    Nuan Chun saw his master was in a fluster but smiled instead, revealing joy from the bottom of his heart. At last, she was willing to be worried for him! He smiled until his eyes were just small slits: ¡°It is all right, Eldest Miss. There is no need to worry, I am not in much pain.¡±


    ¡°How is this just a matter of pain?¡± Unshed tears were in Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes. This fool; did he not know how frightening an injury to an artery was?¡±


    To be able to receive this amount of care from her! At this very second, Nuan Chun felt that even if he were to die in this moment, he would be willing.


    Next to the window, Ruan Yu had been so frightened by this spectacle that she jumped up in fear and quickly left her spot to aim a hateful kick at the corpse on the ground that remained motionless.


    ¡°This shameless and vulgar bastard! He¡¯s finally dead and have actually saved us the trouble of him being a wedge in our hearts, but he died a little too easily.¡± Ruan Yu finished her curses and lifted up Nuan Chun¡¯s wrist for a look: ¡°Most of the bleeding has stopped and it should be fine now. We¡¯ll have a physician look at this when we return.¡±


    Ruan Yu said everything lightly but Ruan Zhu remained uneasy. Saying goodbye to Feng Qing Bai, she led everyone out of You Xiang Pavilion.


    The mission to look for Shen Zhong Yun ended in failure. A short while after they had returned to Guan Ju Villa, Zong Zhi and Min Zhi, the two brothers, rushed in with Imperial Physician Zhang. As soon as they entered the room, the men anxiously looked their wife up and down and omly simultaneously released their breaths after seeing she was all right.


    Imperial Physician Zhang performed the rites to Ruan Zhu and asked: ¡°Niangniang, who is it that has been injured? Please take this lowly one to the patient. All of this noise has rather scared this lowly one.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Nuan Chun that has been injured. He is inside; I¡¯ll take you there.¡±


    ¡°It is enough for Xing Yun to guide Imperial Physician Zhang.¡± Zong Zhi grabbed his wife¡¯s arm and directed his words towards Imperial Physician Zhang and Xing Yun.


    In the hearts of these imperial princes with a dragon¡¯s gall and a phoenix¡¯s marrow, a slave becoming injured as a result of protecting their master was something that was only right. Even if the servant then lost their life, it was considered part of their duty. It was the same as a lord demanding that his subject die¨Cthe subject had no choice but to do so. All subjects were faithful patriots; servants and slaves were loyal and protected their masters¨CSince time immemorial, these sentiments were heaven¡¯s law and earth¡¯s principle.


    The room quieted and Zong Zhi pulled his wife into his arms and hugged her for a long while: ¡°There are so many imperial bodyguards in the residence so why did you not bring some for protection?¡±


    ¡°I am not harmed. In order to protect me, Nuan Chun¡¯s wrist meridian was cut.¡± Ruan Zhu sought refuge in Zong Zhi¡¯s arms. Uncontrollable tears slid down her eyelashes and she sobbed: ¡°I¡¯ve always regarded him as an older brother. We¡¯ve been together for so long, it¡¯s best if nothing bad ever happens.¡±


    Zong Zhi gently stroked his wife¡¯s back: ¡°It is all right. A cut to a person¡¯s wrist meridian is not enough to cause death. At most, he may become handicapped but we can just support him in the future.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was still not yet relieved. She wanted Nuan Chun to be fine with not even the slightest disability.


    ¡°I went to a brothel. Being overt by taking along so many guards will turn me into a joke.¡± She glanced at the two of them and hastily explained: ¡°I was not strolling through the brothel out of fun; I had something to take care of, really. I¡¯m not that lewd.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. Do not be so worried, I understand.¡± How could Zong Zhi not understand the root of the issue? The people he had raised in his Tian Wang Embassy were not useless.


    Min Zhi pulled her from Zong Zhi¡¯s arms and sat them both down on a taishi chair. Looking at his wife¡¯s sparkling and pure appearance, he couldn¡¯t help but to reproach her: ¡°We had just left court when Brother Fei sent over a message. When we rushed out of the south gate, we received yet another notice that someone had been injured. You don¡¯t know how worried we were. Passing by the imperial hospital, we coincidentally met with Imperial Physician Zhang, who was just leaving, and took him along with us.¡±


    ¡°Ai, I¡¯m fine. It was just a false alarm.¡± For them; for the far-flung Yun Shi Yi that was navigating the seas; for the blood-soaked Yun Shi Wei who was fighting bravely on the battlefield; and for her children, she must properly live.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. Zhu¡¯er, I received a shock today so you must accompany me tonight.¡±


    ¡°It seems to not be your turn yet?¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s do it together. It¡¯s not like we haven¡¯t done that before and I don¡¯t mind.¡± Min Zhi tightly held his wife, refusing to let go, and angrily complained: ¡°The feeling of an empty room all to yourself is unpleasant and really makes one want to die.¡±


    ¡°I think the five-day period is too long, Wife, why not cut it down to three days? And the fourth day could be one that we all share?¡± Zong Zhi¡¯s voice chimed in from the side in support. But none of them had even considered their wife¡¯s opinion!


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s face was entirely gloomy. Being hemmed by an entire group of husbands¨Cwhen all was said and done, was that being fortunate or unfortunate?


    ¡°It¡¯s decided.¡± Looking at the moist and red lips, Min Zhi immediately felt thirsty and lowered his head to plant a kiss down.


    ¡°Cough cough¡­¡­¡± Imperial Physician Zhang coughed as he walked in.


    Ruan Zhu stood up from Min Zhi¡¯s lap, embarrassment on her face. This old physician often came to her residence and had unexpectedly seemed to have started taking it to be like his own home to enter without even knocking. ¡°Imperial Physician Zhang, how is Nuan Chun¡¯s injury?¡±


    ¡°It is not a major worry. His artery has been injured but it is not very deep and has also not been severed. Although his wrist will no longer be as nimble as before after it has healed, it is not to the point where he will be disabled.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart that had been suspended with worry finally relaxed as she had been precisely worried that he would become handicapped: ¡°I¡¯ll go look at him.¡±


    Nuan Chun¡¯s room was in the courtyard neighboring Yi Zhu Cottage, through a winding corridor, and then past a moon gate. The courtyard was packed full of all kinds of Chinese peonies and this was currently the seaon where they bloomed. The expanse of flowers created a scene that warmed the heart and delighted the eye, and as a result of a light drizzle that had just fell, the flowers contained sparkling crystal water droplets, bringing about a burst of vitality and emitting a quietly captivating fragrance that assailed one¡¯s nose.


    ¡°Niangniang has come, Brother Nuan Chun, niangniang has come to see you.¡± Xiao Shi Zi walked out of the room carrying a basin of water. Seeing Ruan Zhu, he put the basin down and performed the rites.


    Xiao Shi Zi was someone that Ruan Zhu had bought from a human slave trader during that time they had just returned to Lan Zhou for the purpose of attending to Nuan Chun. ¡°Go on with your work.¡± Ruan Zhu directed a sentence towards him and directly entered the room.


    ¡°Eldest Miss?¡± Nuan Chun had lost a lot of blood so his mind was a little hazy. He was drowsily lying in bed as he had been roused by Xiao Shi Zi¡¯s voice and now attempted to get up and put on his shoes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± Ruan Zhu pressed him back down on the bed. Looking at that face devoid of color, her heart tightened: ¡°Hurry and lie down. I¡¯ll have Imperial Physician Zhang prescribe a blood-boosting medicine for you later. Eat more ginger, tuckahoe, and Chinese knotweed and properly take care of your body. Then I¡¯ll have the kitchen simmer chicken soup to make up for all the blood you¡¯ve lost.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Miss, I am fine. Protecting one¡¯s master is a slave¡¯s duty.¡±


    ¡°Nuan Chun, remember this¨Cyou are forbidden from calling yourself a slave in front of me in the future and must address yourself as ¡®I.¡¯ Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Miss, how can that be allowed? This slave does not dare.¡±


    ¡°Just like that¨Cyou are forbidden from calling yourself a slave. If you continue, I¡¯ll be unhappy and you don¡¯t wish for me to be upset, right, Nuan Chun?¡±


    Ruan Zhu took off her shoes and got on the bed, wriggling inside his blanket.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, you¡­¡­¡± Nuan Chun was struck with panic.


    ¡°Hush, don¡¯t speak. I¡¯m tired from being out for so long. Let me lie down for a bit.¡±


    Nuan Chun could only accompany his master and laid down on a corner. Last year when they were in the capital, he had also shared the same bed with his master several times. But after she had given birth and also received the Prince of Yong, Min Zhi, he no longer lived the good life.


    When Xiao Shi Zi carried a bowl of medicine inside, she easily accepted it and instructed Xiao Shi Zi: ¡°Wait until the evening meal and bring my portion here. I will eat together with Nuan Chun. Return to Yi Zhu Cottage and pass on my message to the two princes¨CI will retire in Nuan Chun¡¯s room for the night so they can sleep by themselves.¡±


    Xiao Shi Zi responded in agreement and left.


    Ruan Zhu picked up the spoon and ladled some of the medicine. She placed it next to her lips to test the temperature and then sent it to Nuan Chun¡¯s mouth¡­¡­


    Nuan Chun appeared very unnatural. To him, his dignified and noble Eldest Miss coming over to see him was already the result of all the good fortune accumulated from his past life. Seeing her holding the bowl of medicine, he couldn¡¯t help but feel there was something wrong with his limbs: ¡°Eldest Miss, Xiao Shi Zi taking care of me is enough. If the young masters are unable to see you, they will be anxious¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°The children will be fine if they don¡¯t see me for one day and the Princes will also look after them. Be good and listen. Your hand can not be casually moved so let me feed you.¡±


    Nuan Chun could only open his mouth and swallow spoonful after spoonful of the incoming medicine. The decoction was bitter but he felt that it was incomparably sweet and his eyes shined brightly. He felt the injury he had received this time had been paid back tenfold and it was worth it, too worth it.


    That night, Ruan Zhu slept in Nuan Chun¡¯s room, hugging him as she fell soundly asleep. It was only at night when she heard a weak and trembling sound and woke up. Rubbing her eyes, she lit a lantern and saw Nuan Chun seemed to be enduring something at all costs, with his legs tightly squeezed together. She thought a bit and suddenly realized: ¡°You want to relieve yourself, right?¡±


    Nuan Chun¡¯s entire face was red: ¡°Please call Xiao Shi Zi over.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the middle of the night so wouldn¡¯t it be terrible to call him?¡± Ruan Zhu found a chamber pot underneath the bed and moved to pull off his trousers so that he could relieve himself. When nurses tended to their patients, didn¡¯t they all do this? She would just take this to be one of her nursing responsibilities.


    ¡°Eldest Miss?!¡± Nuan Chun was a little stunned. What kind of person his Eldest Miss was, he was more clear than anyone. She had mysophobia and usually felt uncomfortable if there was even the smallest mud stain on her clothes. For her to actually hold the chamber pot and help him¡­¡­Was it possible he had slept until he became foolish and was now seeing an illusion?


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, hurry up and pee. If you hold it in for too long, it¡¯ll be uncomfortable. That¡­¡­.you don¡¯t have to wear the chastity belt in the future. You¡¯ll suffer in the hot summer.¡± Fortunately, it was metal and mostly netting so it didn¡¯t interfere with showering or urinating.


    As Nuan Chun listened to the tinkling sound of water, his ears flushed red all the way to their base from shame and from the smell. After he was finished, he didn¡¯t dare lift his head.


    Ruan Zhu carried the chamber pot towards the bathroom in the back of the room and closed the door securely before walking back to the bed. Seeing Nuan Chun clumsily tying his belt with one hand, she kneeled beside the head of the bed and attentively tied it for him, mumbling: ¡°Actually, not wearing pants is fine as you¡¯re still wearing the chastity belt. It won¡¯t do for me to eat you.¡±


    Nuan Chun was speechless when in actuality, that was his biggest wish. She had better eat him and to the point where nothing was left.


    Ruan Zhu found a towel and wet it before wiping her hands clean. She also did the same for Nuan Chun before climbing back into bed, cuddling against his chest and entering dreamland.


    This was the night where Nuan Chun, based on his memories, slept the soundest.


    During the day, Ruan Zhu was the same in managing the household duties and looking after the children. If she had free time, she would go visit Nuan Chun and would conveniently stay there at night. This happened for three nights in a row and her two husbands finally got tired of it and demanded their share of her favor.


    As a result, Ruan Zhu became like a paper carousel lantern as she rotated among them. However, Nuan Chun could fortunately act as her safe haven¨Cwhenever she was unable to bear it any longer, she would come over to Nuan Chun¡¯s place to hide away, causing Nuan Chun to feel a little fear in his heart whenever he came across the two men. Despite being afraid, he did not regret in the least of being together with his master.


    One night, just as Zong Zhi suggested, the three of them slept together.


    Having been successively embraced by Zong Zhi and Min Zhi, her tired body had gone through bouts of physical exercise and was covered in sweat. She weakly laid between the two men: ¡°Big Brother Lu, Min Zhi, I want to request a vacation. After everyone has had their turn, I¡¯ll rest for three days. Always being eaten here and there by you guys will tire me out.¡±


    ¡°A century of cultivation let us board the same ship and cross the river; a millennium of cultivation let us share a common pillow in sleep.[a] The Heavens called for us to be bound together in this life; how unlikely is that? We ought to properly cherish their actions. Wife, do not make rude demands.¡±


    ¡°What Zong Zhi said is correct. Zhu¡¯er, don¡¯t be unreasonable.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s being unreasonable? You each get three days so is me asking for three days off excessive?¡± Ruan Zhu fiercely shot back.


    ¡°It seems it is not excessive.¡± Zong Zhi thought for a moment and muttered in response.


    ¡°Then it¡¯s decided. None of you can go back on your word.¡± A smile sparkled on Ruan Zhu¡¯s still-red cheeks and her bright and twinkling eyes were like stars, revealing her happy mood.


    Zong Zhi tightly held her two arms and squeezed: ¡°Since my wife likes it, I will give you a vacation period. However, the three day period is not after everyone has had a turn; it is three days every ten days. We will do it like this, no objections.¡± He stiffened his face, using the imposing air of a generalissimo.


    ¡°Then Zhu¡¯er, I must take advantage of you not having gone on vacation yet and eat to my fill.¡± Min Zhi sat up and took his wife from Zong Zhi¡¯s arms, letting her straddle his body just like the first time they did it¡­¡­


    Zong Zhi came behind his wife and hugged her, his hands winding around her as he caressed her torso. Pulling her head over, he kissed her lips¡­¡­.Passion like fire, their entire bodies ignited with desire, and she suddenly regretted her proposal.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Zong Zhi held his daughter in the garden as they basked in the sun. His son already knew how to madly run around but his daughter was still like a lazy pig. His two hands supported Bo Ya as she walked a dozen or so steps. After a while, she tired and sat on the ground, refusing to stand up. Zong Zhi could only coax her by carrying her and looked towards the side of the pond where Zhi Xi was playing with Nuan Chun, his eyes thoughtful. ¡°Wife, you are not thinking of accepting Nuan Chun, correct?¡±


    ¡°He saved my life.¡± Ruan Zhu looked at the smiling Bo Yu who could now run and jump. Time indeed passed by fast; the child had already learned how to scamper around.


    Nuan Chun¡¯s injury had healed but his fingers could not bend, causing him to be unable to exert force and he could no longer do many things. She also refused to let him work for a living and massaged his fingers every day, hoping that doing so could restore his hand¡¯s functionality.


    ¡°I know. But yesterday, Prime Minister Wang brought up his son again to me. Wife, Mister Wang has also saved you before¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°How is that the same?¡± Ruan Zhu rolled her eyes at him: ¡°It¡¯s not like I¡¯m familiar with Mister Wang. Nuan Chun has been with me since we were both small.¡± It was actually the year this body was fourteen that they became familiar, but saying that they had been together since small was also not wrong.


    ¡°But Mister Wang is familiar with you. Perhaps you have never noticed, but every time you went to the palace to pay respects to Emperor-Father, he saw you. Every single poem you have written, he can recite them all without missing a single word.¡±


    [a] A saying that means, a conjugal union between a man and a woman is difficult to achieve. A mortal person being able to share a pillow with their loved one in this current life was the result of finally able to exchange a millennium of good deeds done in their past lives.

 Chapter 98

    ¡°He has seen me before? Then why do I not know about it?¡± Ruan Zhu searched and searched her brain but did not remember someone called Mister Wang.


    ¡°You are this dumb and your memory is also bad beyond reason. It would be a wonder if you knew about it. And there is only me that is utterly out of luck to be taken in as your concubine. If it was any other person, how pathetic would they have it, hmm?¡± Zong Zhi shook his head, pity apparent in his eyes: ¡°I have told him that he must treat such a big matter as marriage cautiously and carefully as taking a wife is by no means the same as practicing a skill. But he is just a stubborn one. Wife, how could there be such a stupid man?¡±


    Ruan Zhu angrily stared at her wisecracking husband, thinking about how she should punish him.


    Zong Zhi pressed a kiss against his daughter¡¯s rosy face: ¡°Xiao Ya, you must not learn from your dummy Ma. Learn from Papa; see how Papa is so clever?¡±


    Ruan Zhu stood up from the stone platform and walked in front of him, pulling Bo Ya from his arms: ¡°Xiao Ya, be good. Ma will take you to have a nap. Don¡¯t pay any attention to your perverted Papa.¡± Hugging her daughter, she headed towards Yi Zhu Cottage.


    ¡°Wife, you wish to flee as you cannot win with words?¡±


    ¡°When did that happen?¡± Ruan Zhu exclaimed as she walked: ¡°The lagging flowers intentionally pursue the flowing water, yet the flowing water has no intention of becoming attached to the falling flowers. My heart faces the moon but how could the moon illuminate a moat? There are that many senseless men in the world. Lord, Zhu¡¯er, is powerless. Don¡¯t come over tonight; I¡¯ll go accompany Nuan Chun.¡±


    ¡°Ai, Wife, sure enough, you memory is truly terrible. My three days are not over yet, hmm?¡±


    What came in response was the sound of footsteps gradually growing further away.


    Zong Zhi mumbled to himself: ¡°Wife created yet another good poem. I must recite it and show it to Emperor-Father tomorrow during morning court.¡± Thinking about how his wife could increase her reputation again, his eyes overflowed with pride.


    After Ruan Zhu coaxed Bo Ya to sleep, she stepped out of Yi Zhu Cottage. Taking Nuan Chun with her out of Guan Ju Villa, she spent the entire afternoon at her high-tech demonstration field.


    With regards to agriculture, she was also adept in this field and had spent an enormous sum to invite agricultural experts from all over the country. Using her own knowledge to guide them, they had already achieved pretty good results from after experimenting once last year and again this year.


    One of this era¡¯s fields could produce approximately one dan or perhaps even two dan of foodstuffs¨Cthis was precisely one to two hundred catties.


    With the rice seeds that she had modified, it was possible to harvest three dan of foodstuffs from one field that had been planted last autumn. However, this still wasn¡¯t enough. A single field in modern China could produce sixteen hundred catties of food but she would be satisfied with only half of that output.


    The experts that she had invited were all farmers that had been planting for the greater majority of their lives. They had never heard that combining different types of seeds in one field where there was no arrangement of where pairs were planted could increase the yield. But after obtaining a pretty good result from last year¡¯s experiment, they strove to work even harder with the desire of increasing the output further by this coming autumn.


    ¡°Our country¡¯s fields have an output of approximately one to two dan and on average, three paddies can support one person. If a household has ten mouths, then that would require thirty fields. But for the majority of the poor commoners, where would that much arable land come from? If all of the civilians were able to plant exceptionally good rice types, then the yield will suddenly become several times that. Think about it, what should be done in this case?¡±


    ¡°Ten paddies. A household with ten mouths only requires ten paddies of rice.¡±


    ¡°This child can certainly be taught.¡± Ruan Zhu pat Wang Jing Yan¡¯s shoulders and gave an encouraging smile: ¡°Do this properly. After you have done so, I will gift you fifty fields for you to go home and take a wife with.¡±


    ¡°I will not go home and take a wife.¡± Wang Jing Yan indifferently replied thus as he looked at that dainty hand atop his shoulders, a mysterious look flashing by in his eyes.


    ¡°All right, ah. Then which maiden have you come to respect and admire? Tell me, I can act as your matchmaker.¡±


    Wang Jing Yan did not respond while his clear eyes flickered.


    Ruan Zhu left his side. Looking at the lush and green rice paddies that stretched before her with the start unable to be seen, a sense of accomplishment filled her entire heart.


    Close to night, she led Nuan Chun as they rode a carriage away from the high-tech experimental field and towards Guan Ju Villa.


    Ruan Zhu sank into the soft cushion, reclining against Nuan Chun¡¯s shoulder. Her two eyes were slightly closed as she sank into deep thought.


    The first time she had met Wang Jing Yan, she had felt that there was something familiar about the man.


    But Wang Jing Yan¡¯s appearance was truly average. Not mentioning how his skin was yellow like wax, there was even a beard on his face that covered most of his cheeks so that even his lips weren¡¯t clearly visible. This sort of appearance, don¡¯t talk about someone like her whose memory was no good, perhaps even his own biological parents may not recognize him.


    Nuan Chun tenderly gazed at his young master, showing an incomparably sincerity in the feelings between a man and a woman. He believed she had already fallen asleep so pulled a cloak over her, then thinking for a moment, lowered his head to press a kiss against her cheek.


    Ruan Zhu opened her eyes, revealing a hint of humor.


    Nuan Chun hadn¡¯t thought she was pretending to sleep and the base of his ears flushed a deep red while he mumbled indistinctly, unable to form words.


    Ruan Zhu flippd her hands over to wrap them around his neck while she pushed her lips forward¡­¡­When the two mouths touched, he immediately became dumb. It was the act that he had longed for countless times in the past but when the opportunity finally arose, he suddenly was at a complete loss. There was nowhere to place his hands and he spread them open, not knowing what was best to do.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, hold me tight.¡± She lowly murmured, afraid the coachman outside would hear.


    ¡°Ye¡­¡­.Yes¡­¡­.Eldest Miss¡­¡­.¡±


    Nuan Chun tightened his hold on the warm and delicate body. Feeling the tip of her tongue tracing the shape of his mouth, he couldn¡¯t resist opening his lips to suck on that tongue and its sweet frgrance.


    While Ruan Zhu responded to him, one of her hands continued to roam around his body¡­¡­Oh? His chest was quite broad and his pecs were firm¨Cnot bad. Since the year before last when she had urged him to strengthen his body, his figure has only become more muscular. Hehe¡­¡­she liked strong men.


    Her hand stretched inside his trousers. Feeling thin, gold chains, she couldn¡¯t help but to frown: ¡°Nuan Chun, didn¡¯t I tell you to stop wearing chastity belts? Why did you not listen?¡±


    Nuan Chun whispered with a red face: ¡°It must be undone on my wedding night and only my wife can remove it. Now is not allowed.¡±


    Ruan Zhu gave a tyrannical/overbearing order: ¡°Remove it tonight and then go bathe. Wait for me on the bed.¡± Once the words left her mouth, her face immediately flushed. What the hell was this¨Cit was like she was a lewd woman whose desires remained unsatisfied.


    Nuan Chun let his head droop all the way down. The eyes that she couldn¡¯t see were filled with a pleasant surprise.


    Ruan Zhu was destined to eat her words because right when they reached Guan Ju Villa, Zong Zhi pulled her entirely into his arms and strode towards Yi Zhu Cottage with large steps.


    Nuan Chun looked at the picture of the two people and desolately headed towards his own residence.


    ¡°Hey! Big Brother Lu, you can¡¯t be this unreasonable! There¡¯s already been an agreement and I want to accompany Nuan Chun tonight.¡±


    ¡°Wife, you are the one being unreasonable for it was clearly scheduled that today was my day to accompany you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu knew that this topic would not be resolved and changed the subject: ¡°Where¡¯s Min Zhi? Why don¡¯t I see him?¡±


    ¡°He will be a little late. A Tuyuhun[a] emissary has arrived and he is currently preparing to receive him. Emperor-Father¡¯s grand fiftieth birthday celebration is in this year¡¯s tenth lunar month and many kingdoms have sent envoys with gifts. I am afraid that only Min Zhi can handle the work.¡±


    Presently, it was already the eighth lunar month so there was still over a month between now and the emperor¡¯s grand celebration. A hundred or so foreign diplomats arrived one after the other and the process of receiving them was extremely complicated and tedious. As a young official of the Hong Lu Temple, Min Zhi was forced to become busy.


    ¡°Wife, what should we send for Emperor-Father¡¯s birthday celebration?¡±


    The emperor was as rich as the four seas and did not lack in anything. When sending a gift, it would of course be best if it had meaning.


    Ruan Zhu rested her chin in her hand as she deeply pondered the question. Lifting her eyes, she suggested: ¡°In every dynasty throughout history, the common people having enough to eat has always been a big issue as trouble will arise if they are left to go hungry. The rebels at the southern border gathered together to revolt precisely because of the influence of the large drought. If there was enough food, then that sort of situation wouldn¡¯t happen at all. Big Brother Lu, what do you think of gifting Emperor-Father rice seeds that can produce four dan of rice per one paddy?¡±


    Zong Zhi had long known of his wife¡¯s new hobby. He hadn¡¯t been that confident in the idea in the beginning as no one had ever attempted something like this before in history. Rice seeds were objects that the Heavens had bestowed and one should follow the proper way to plant it as no matter how one threw the seeds into the ground, they would still sprout after a long time and be considered food. How could an artificially created rice seed be able to increase the yield?


    But she had done it. Last autumn, she had been able to obtain over three dan worth from one paddy and achieving four dan per field this year may not be the ravings of a lunatic.


    ¡°Wife, I believe in your skill as you have surprised me so many times before.¡±


    After the evening meal, Zong Zhi played with the three children for a while and then coaxed them to sleep. When he returned to Yi Zhu Cottage, Xing Yun passed a message saying niangniang was currently bathing and had even instructed Nuan Chun to enter.


    Entering the white marble bathroom, Zong Zhi saw his wife sitting inside the pool with her eyes closed in rest while swirls of steam floated around her. The exquisite female was reflected on top of the warm water, showing off her dainty features.


    He shed his clothes and strode inside the pool, and with a lift of his arm, pulled his wife against his chest.


    ¡°Eh? Big Brother Lu, how is it you? I had told Xing Yun to call for Nuan Chun to attend to me.¡±


    ¡°Wife, we have already discussed how bad your memory is but how is it that your brain has also become increasingly dim? Xing Yun is my slave so of course he must listen to my orders. Tonight is my turn to accompany you. How could he possibly dare to look for Nuan Chun without permission and cause me trouble?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes were frosty: ¡°Then I no longer want Xing Yun to wait on me in the future. Have a trader send in some more people into the residence.¡±


    ¡°No need, it was only this one time. If Xing Yun dares to not obey you one more time, I will break his legs.¡± Buying some more men to enter the residence¨Cwhat a joke. If, by chance, emotions that were like the ones between her, Nuan Chun, and Nuan Qing were to arise, wouldn¡¯t he be shooting himself in the foot?


    ¡°Wife, do not be angered. I will make you happy.¡±


    He had her stand so that she was right before him, practically straddling his head. Lifting his head to admire her secret place, he extended his index finger to peel back the flower petals¡­¡­Even after giving birth to three children, this place was still extremely tight.


    She knew what he wanted to do next and lowered her own head to look at him with lively eyes as she was actually really looking forward to it.


    His mouth moved forward and kissed that sparkling, small bead while the tip of his tongue lightly teased it¡­¡­


    ¡°Enn¡­¡­¡± Teased until her entire body felt soft, her legs unconsciously tightened around that head underneath her.


    After teasing her for a while, his tongue left the bead and found the small entrance, swallowing down all of the liquid dripping out of it. It was like he was unsatisfied as his tongue probed even deeper inside while at the same time, a finger had taken over the small bead and continuously fiddled it back and forth.


    ¡°Ahhh¡­¡­!¡± Ruan Zhu could no longer endure it. Grabbing onto his hair with all ten fingers, her entire body trembled with the force of her climax while she suddenly screamed out in pleasure before her body quickly went limp.


    Zong Zhi caught her. Having her hold onto the white marble altar in support, he then hugged her from behind and then guided his stiff member inside her¡­¡­


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    When Ruan Zhu was carried by her husband back into the bedroom, she laid paralyzed on the bed while her face glowed as she thought of what had just happened in the bathroom.


    Zong Zhi laid down next to her and pulled her against his chest: ¡°¡±Wife, if you are adamant on accepting Nuan Chun, I do not have any complaints. However, why not wait a few years, hmm? If you feel dissatisfied, you can first give him the status of an escort[b].¡±


    ¡°Why must I wait a few years?¡±


    Zong Zhi remained silent for a while before responding: ¡°There is someone called Wang Jing Yan working on your high tech demonstration field, correct?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, but how did you know?¡± It was only after she had finished speaking that she realized the question was dumb. He had such a large organization at his fingertips so what could there possible be that he didn¡¯t know?


    ¡°I, your man, would and have not sent my men into your lands¨CI have great respect for you. The reason why I know of Wang Jing Yan is because of another matter.¡± As soon as Zong Zhi saw his wife¡¯s expression, he knew immediately what she was thinking of: ¡°Wife, do you not think Wang Jing Yan is very strange?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s so strange about him? He was born and raised by his parents; he¡¯s got two eyes and a nose and a mouth underneath all that. He pretty much looks the same as us so he shouldn¡¯t be a ghoul. You should relax, ya?¡±


    ¡°My foolish wife, he is Prime Minister Wang¡¯s son.¡±


    ¡°Wha¨C?¡± Ruan Zhu was stunned silly. How could it be possible for the son of the prime minster to be a farmer? She remembered that he was a swordsman and had put his high skill on display at the stone bridge by fending off several bailiffs of Shun Tian Hall. ¡°Big Brother Lu, didn¡¯t you say he was an imperial bodyguard of the second class?¡±


    ¡°Because of you, ah. Wife, you have ruined the good future of the other. He became a peasant farmer for you.¡±


    Fuck! She had always said that Wang Jing Yan looked familiar!


    The yellow wax-like face could be false but it was impossible for that face to grow out a full beard because when she had saw him on the stone bridge, he looked to barely be over twenty. The beard might be glued on, but why had he even thought of going to her high tech experimental field as a peasant farmer, ah!


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t tell that he¡¯s a noble son from an official background. He¡¯s rather skilled and also very diligent, very clear and logical when planting and also helps me with managing the field¡¯s bits and bobs.¡±


    ¡°That fellow grew up in the mountains with his martial arts master and knows how to farm. Him being able to bear hardships is not surprising.¡±


    [a] ͹Ȼë, a past nomadic tribe in China. (Wikipedia)


    [b] The word used here is СÊÌ which apparently is the female equivalent of ͨ·¿ (bedwarmer).

 Chapter 99

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    The lotus seeds reached maturity in the ninth lunar month. Nuan Chun paddled a small boat atop Bi Qing pond towards the lotuses and picked them one by one, placing them next to him.


    Freshly-picked lotus seeds were very sweet and because they were full of moisture, each bite would be soft.


    He wanted to wait until the evening meal to simmer and bring out a bowl of lotus seed soup as Eldest Miss had a special liking for fresh lotus seeds.


    Ruan Zhu sat inside Shui Xie Ark. She was currently planning on transforming her high-tech demonstration field into Tian Chu¡¯s Department of Agriculture. It was best to establish an animal husbandry school next to it that specialized in recruiting talented children as students.


    But only thinking wouldn¡¯t do. Wanting to expand; wanting to do well¨Cboth of these endeavors still required the support of the emperor.


    It was impossible for her to write a memorial towards the emperor as she wasn¡¯t even clear on how to do so. Although she had entered college in her past life and her literacy level could be considered not bad, her skill in classical Chinese was pretty much the same as a child of this era.


    Even after frowning for a while in bitter concentration, she had only managed to squeeze out a few intact sentences. But as long as she wrote her plan down colloquially, she could wait until tonight when Zong Zhi had returned from the barracks and have him modify it into classical Chinese.


    When she had finally finished everything, she walked out of the pavilion and stretched. From afar and among the greenery, she saw a white figure that looked especially clean and fresh, with a pure air around him that made him very eye-catching.


    Nuan Chun piloted the small boat back and forth across the pond as he searched for quality lotus seeds and unexpectedly caught sight of his lady in Shui Xie Ark.


    ¡°Eldest Miss!¡± He smiled as he waved his hand before rowing the boat towards her.


    Ruan Zhu held onto the hand he stretched out and jumped onto the boat. The outstretched hand was firm and really warm, causing her to become absent-minded for a split second. Since the beginning, he had always been like an older brother who took care of her, cherished her, and was steadfastly loyal. She could no longer continue to let him suffer.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, these are fresh lotus seeds. Wait for me to simmer some porridge for you tonight; it will be very delicious.¡±


    Standing in a pile of lotus seeds, she lowly said: ¡°Nuan Chun, sail the boat to among the lotuses. I want to kiss you.¡±


    Nuan Chun was in shock and stuttered: ¡°El¡­¡­Eldest Miss¡­¡­.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say any of your nonsense. Are you not willing?¡± After saying that, Ruan Zhu felt bashful. Why did it seem like she wanted to ** the other?


    ¡°Wil¡­¡­willing¡­¡­.¡± Nuan Chun¡¯s ears immediately turned red and he no longer held himself back as he spit out his consent. The Heavens knew how full of expectation he was. Looking at her with his eyes full of tenderness, he paddled the boat towards the depths of the lotuses.


    They were surrounded on all four sides by plants. The green jade-like scenery exuded their sweet and strong fragrance, so concentrated, it was like an enchantment from another world had wrapped up the small boat.


    Ruan Zhu threw herself into his arms and raised her head, offering her red lips.


    Having experienced this before, Nuan Chun was no longer flustered. Because he was taller than her by a head, his instinct was to hold her close as he lowered his head and aimed for that captivating mouth. Poking the tip of his tongue between her lips, a sweetness tinged with the woman¡¯s fragrance seeped into him and he became bewitched in a flash.


    While she responded to him, her left hand wrapped around his neck while her right hand roamed around his chest¡­¡­In summer, people wore thin clothes and after his one changsan was removed by her, there was nothing else on his upper body.


    She removed her left hand from around his neck and rested both her hands on his sturdy chest, softly kneading and pinching his two vermilion buds.


    A limp feeling traveled throughout his entire body. It actually made him feel incredibly at ease but it was also incredibly hard to bear. He wanted more but she stopped.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, do you want it?¡± Ruan Zhu raised her head to look at him, her eyes full of passion and inquiry: ¡°If you do, then give yourself to me here, without a bridal room and fancy ornaments, without a house full of guests, but with my sincere heart.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Miss¡­¡­I¡­¡­¡± How could he not feel embarrassed saying it out loud? Lowering his head, he gently offered the key around his neck towards her: ¡°This¡­¡­.this is the key to the chastity belt. I have carried it on me ever since that day.¡±


    He had started carrying it with him ever since they had returned from the high-tech experimental field, always fantasizing that the intimacy from that day would suddenly manifest and he and his beloved mistress could share their love.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, I will give myself to you right now. I vow to never turn my back on you for my entire life¡­¡­¡± She pulled off his trousers and opened the chastity belt with the key. The silver chains fell from the man¡¯s crotch and his large member gradually rose.


    She dipped a handkerchief in some of the pond water and wiped him down a few times, causing that thing to become even bigger and stiffer like a pillar.


    ¡°Eldest Miss¡­¡­I¡­¡­want¡­¡­¡±


    A rough voice sounded from atop and Ruan Zhu raised her head to see the man¡¯s face completely flushed while his eyes glowed with desire. She extended her hand and gripped him¡­¡­slowly stroking him back and forth¡­¡­A sparkling liquid dripped from the tip and she opened her mouth to catch it¨Csuch a fresh scent of a virgin.


    ¡°En¡­¡­.Eldest Miss¡­¡­¡± He was stunned¨Chis honorable mistress was actually willing to do this for him? He wasn¡¯t an ignorant youth; he was already twenty-some years old and somewhat knew of the matters between a man and woman. He had often casually chatted with those servants who were unwilling to do honest work and had heard them mention things like this quite a few times.


    Ruan Zhu wished to give him a fantastic experience and opened her mouth to completely take in his member¡­¡­


    He suddenly became impatient. Clasping her small face, he rapidly thrust.


    Continuously maintaining this movement, the man abruptly welcomed the most splendid pleasure. ¡°Eldest Miss!¡± He violently groaned, giving voice to how comfortable and good he felt. His entire body trembled incessantly while his mind seemed to have flew away.


    What a pleasurable feeling that surpassed any other in the world.


    For the first time in his life, the young man experienced the emotions between a man and a woman. Unwilling to extract himself, he continued to move.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth was sore and she spit him out before standing and stripping herself of all her clothes.


    One man and one woman were stopped among the densely packed lotuses. Neither of them wore clothes as they candidly faced and stared at the other. The man unblinkingly took in the perfect lines of his mistress, the plump mounds on her chest instantly making his eyes hazy.


    She said in a small voice: ¡°You can touch them¡­¡­¡± and set both of his hands on top of her breasts. Lightly kneading her chest with one hand on each mound, his eyes were completely filled with perplexity mixed with desire. ¡°Eldest Miss, here is so soft¡­¡­¡±


    Ruan Zhu shifted down and held his rod again¡­¡­It was still extremely hard¡­¡­Actually, it should be said that ever since she had removed his clothes, it had never softened. ¡°Do you still want it?¡±


    ¡°Want¡­¡­¡± He blurted out. A flush was on his cheeks while his eyes were incomparably shiny: ¡°I want it all¡­¡­¡±


    She of course knew what ¡®all¡¯ meant. Releasing her hold, she laid down on the boat so that she was facing up. Her bright and clean, snow-like skin reflected the green of the lotuses and she seemed unspeakably dainty. She lifted her legs, exposing the badge of a woman towards him.


    Nuan Chun kneeled down as he piously looked at it. Peeling it back with his finger, he lowered his head to give the place a kiss¡­¡­Because this was his first time, his technique wasn¡¯t any good, but she was satisfied and quickly released inside his mouth.


    Right while she was still panting, a solid pillar entered her body¡­¡­.Nuan Chun pressed down on his mistress¡¯s body, quickly moving¡­¡­


    Once a hot liquid had been poured inside her, Nuan Chun finally became her man.


    From a distant place, two tall and straight men looked towards the lotuses where the sounds of a man and a woman could be heard from deep within. One of them smiled: ¡°Wife has finally settled her bedwarmer. Min Zhi, what do you think of this?¡±


    Min Zhi¡¯s voice was frosty: ¡°Recently, I¡¯ve been busy with handling the Hong Lu Department and have actually made it convenient for you all. I¡¯m demanding to stay with Zhu¡¯er for an entire month from today onwards. None of you should even think of arguing with me on this.¡±


    Zong Zhi thought of the time he had spent with his wife during this period. He had experienced an endless tenderness and his eyes couldn¡¯t help but to express his joy. He whistled: ¡°Go say that to our wife. As long as she agrees, I will have no objection.¡± He did not believe she would¨CZhu¡¯er had just finished settling the matter with Nuan Chun. Her being able and willing to kick him away and pull Min Zhi into bed would be too strange.


    The facts proved Zong Zhi really was sensible. For three days in a row, Ruan Zhu stayed with Nuan Chun for a ¡®honeymoon,¡¯ as per her words.


    On the fourth day, Ruan Zhu had everyone in Guan Ju Villa assemble for a meal and gave Nuan Chun the status of an escort. An escort was also called an ¡®attending husband¡¯ and was higher than a bedwarmer by one level. However, this status was not considered a master and it did not have the qualifications or right to request children from their mistress.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    In Tian Chu, basically none of the women worked. In any case, they were raised by a whole group of husbands and only needed to take care of the important task of procreation.


    Several centuries ago, during the time when the system of polyandry had just been put into practice, the idea of men being faithful until death was not at all strict. One woman may have had five husbands, but she was no match for the husbands, escorts, bedwarmers that her relatives would send over, nor to the temptations of single men¡­¡­


    Since this was the case, there were still many men who remained bachelors and with rape, **, homosexuality¡­¡­Society became utterly confused and chaotic.


    As this continued, countries no longer resembled countries and families no longer resembled families¡­¡­Insightful people sensed the situation had become grave and joined forces to draw up new societal rules. Since women could not be faithful because of the law, then they would have men devote themselves to one woman their whole lives and those that derailed would be punished with the crime of adultery.


    When the system was first put in place, they had also set up another law of a husband¡¯s assets being controlled by the wife. Husbands could not repudiate their wife as they pleased and in the case that they did, they lost the right to remarry. On the other hand, the wife could also not leave her principal husband without any reason.


    But a system was a system and the actual implementation was far from the ideal. Even if males were able to control their dicks, who in the world would be willing to hand over their ancestral assets over? Thus, even though the system was law, it was like a worthless piece of paper thrown in the trash for n years, of no interest to anyone.


    The facts proved that no matter how large a change society went through, males could still not control their lower half.


    This was true for no matter who it was¨Crich or poor¨Cor otherwise, how could a peacock man fall into becoming a flower thief? And that was still not enough. He wore a veil and used the identity of ¡®Wan Zi Yu¡¯ to advertise himself in a brothel, going out every few days and meeting attractive women who he would then pull onto bed for a few rounds of lovemaking and indulge in sexual pleasure.


    Among the Four Great Masters, Wan Zi Yu was the only one whose appearance had never been seen before by others. But his fame was extremely high and the reason was because everyone knew this man was too flirtatious and his skill in bed was spectacular, causing the women who had tasted being with him once to desire him again.


    He had pretty much played with all of the exceptional women in the city of Lan Zhou and it¡¯s said that even the Crown Princess had been one of his guests.


    After eating so many delicacies, they would all inevitably start to taste the same. This Mister Peacock currently really wanted to bed a woman who had suddenly risen to fame during these past few years. He had crossed paths with her several times already and none of those times were ordinary, but the other party stubbornly refused to pay attention to him. He simply didn¡¯t believe there were any kittens who did not have affairs in this world.


    Ruan Yu still hadn¡¯t found Shen Zhong Yun and she became increasingly taciturn.


    Sometimes Ruan Zhu couldn¡¯t understand her little sister¡¯s emotions. Ruan Yu had only met the man twice¨Cone of which was her following distantly behind him¨Cyet despite that, she had still fallen deeply for him. If it was her, she would have long forgotten his appearance and name.


    She felt Ruan Yu couldn¡¯t continue to be so listless. In the future if she received numerous husbands and gave birth to a whole bunch of children, it was very likely she would end up like Madam Ruan who relied on her husbands to support her. How lamentable would that outcome be?


    She decided to open a brand-name store and bought a beautiful three-story building in the most flourishing street of the city. Removing the previous sign, she replaced it with a large, black plaque lacquered with gold characters and suspended it high above.


    The characters on the sign were written by Ruan Zhu in thin-foil calligraphy and then carved by a carpenter, resulting in five extremely bold words: Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu![a]


    Not bad, she would call her newly-opened boutique Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu.


    Although she had already practiced writing very well, the time she had spent doing so was shallow and her words were short of strength and lacked energy. Fortunately, the master who had made the plaque was an expert and after he was done with it, the charm in the characters was greatly improved.


    Entering Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu¡¯s front door, a four-line poem with two verses was visible with a lift of ones eyes:


    Water is the rippling in her eyes;


    Mountains are in the knitting in her brows.


    If you ask where travelers are journeying to,


    it is towards her enchanting eyes and brows.


    Spring has just been sent off


    and now you, too, are soon to depart.


    If you catch up to Spring in Jiang Nan,


    be sure to stay with her in that spot.


    To the tune of Bu Suan Zi: A Present to Bao Hao Ran of East Zhe Jiang²·Ëã×Ó¡¤Ëͱ«ºÆȻ֮Õ㶫 by Wang Guan Íõ¹Û


    The first floor was for clothes, the second was for shoes and hats, and the third was for accessories.


    The main items were all personally designed by Ruan Zhu. She sketched out the plans and then had her residence¡¯s sewing department take over and distributed the work.


    Ruan Zhu no longer allowed Nuan Chun to work as the steward of Guan Ju Villa. She had visited Yun manor and requested Yun Shan and Yun Feng¡¯s father from her parents-in-law to take over Nuan Chun¡¯s duties. Guan Ju Villa was Yun Shi Yi¡¯s estate and could only have someone from the Yun clan to manage it.


    As for Nuan Chun, she let him lead the sewing department. He was a diligent worker and she felt extremely assured handing such an important task for him to manage.


    Ruan Yu was made the store¡¯s shopkeeper, in charge of everything involved internally with the business.


    The two sisters used the idea of stocks to share profits. One-tenth was for Nuan Chun and three-tenths were allocated for workers who did their work carefully and well.


    The items sold included clothes, shoes, hats, all kinds of handbags, knapsacks, small accessories¡­¡­After several days of active promotion, the store became full a mere while after its grand opening and they had no choice but to limit the amount each guest could purchase.


    Ruan Zhu was currently a member of the imperial family despite her low birth status but her achievements spoke for themselves.


    Because of the way she dressed, she frequently stood out because of the additional modern element found in her clothes. As a result of this, every design and pattern that she went out in would be copied. No matter if one was of the aristocracy or a common person, all of the women imitated her.


    The Princess of Guan Ju Villa became the representative of Tian Chu¡¯s fashion world, leading the fashion trends.


    No longer did people ridicule her for being merchant-born as laughing at her was tantamount to mocking their own tastes.


    Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu¡¯s business was exceptionally good, particularly because it was almost the emperor¡¯s birthday celebration and its reputation quickly spread around the merchants and various country envoys who were currently gathered in Lan Zhou. But because of the purchase limit, they simply couldn¡¯t keep up with sales and even the items booked in advance were scheduled for two months later. A few merchants saw an opportunity and began copying her styles so that soon, the people on the streets were all dressed in the same styles.


    But Ruan Zhu was walking the luxury path, and those with money and good taste still preferred Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu. She also had another advantage compared to other shops¨Cher designs were constantly being replaced and the other vendors were forever following behind her in their imitations.


    ¡°Why is the shop so deserted?¡± Ruan Zhu arrived at Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu and saw that there were only a few guests inside. Even the number of shop assistants was nothing to write home about; it was strange.


    ¡°The Emperor sent a decree for the people of Li Yuan to perform for the commoners outside of the Wu Gate today. Once everyone received the news, they all ran over.¡±


    ¡°Yu¡¯er, if you want to take a look, go for it. I will watch the store.¡± Ruan Zhu saw the longing on her younger sister¡¯s face and thought about how there wasn¡¯t much entertainment in this ancient era. It was truly too pitiful. To be honest, she also wanted to see it, but she had to act as the older sister.


    ¡°Okay!¡±


    Ruan Yu happily faced a tall mirror against the wall and straightened her appearance, casually taking a rice-colored knee-length coat with a lapel off of a wooden mannequin and putting it on.


    Ruan Zhu looked at her younger sister leaving and couldn¡¯t help but find it funny how Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu made it convenient for the other to dress. In any case, she wasn¡¯t short of money and the reason why she had decided to open this store was to make her family happy.


    Ruan Zhu took the outfits she had brought with her outside. Sizing up the wooden mannequins in front of the door, she dressed them. After she had done that, she didn¡¯t feel assured and ordered the two young, pretty boys standing guard in front of the store to keep good watch.


    She was just about to turn around and return inside when a person unexpectedly walked over from the street. Their eyes met, and the person immediately became astonished: ¡°It¡¯s you?¡±


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t even want to acknowledge the other and headed back inside the shop. Looking at this kind of flashy man who flirted all over the place made her nauseous. No matter where he was and when they met, he would always cause others to feel disgusted with his double identity of a leading brothel act and a flower thief.


    [a] üÑÛÓ¯Ó¯´¦. I¡¯m pretty sure this has been used before, but it loosely translates to ¡°enchanting brows and eyes¡± and is just another way to describe how beautiful a woman is.


    TN: Translation correction: Hong Lu Temple -> Hong Lu Department. It¡¯s a government office that takes care of receiving foreign emissaries etc. I hope everyone is staying safe and doing well against COVID!

 Chapter 100

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ʱ³½ | sichen | time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    ¡°No matter what, aren¡¯t we are still considered old friends? Why are you ignoring me?¡± Without regard for anyone else, Liu Fei Xu walked inside Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu and looked everything over, admiration in his eyes: ¡°This is such an interesting store. I have been here a few times before, but what a pity that there are limits to what could be bought.¡±


    ¡°You may purchase a few more pieces, but after you¡¯ve done so, leave at once. I don¡¯t wish to see you here.¡±


    Peacock Liu knew his reputation hadn¡¯t been that good these past two years but he had shamelessly become used to it: ¡°Cough cough¡­¡­You shouldn¡¯t listen to the gossip outside. Actually, I am very innocent; I¡¯m a good man.¡±


    ¡°What is the meaning of this, Mister Liu? Whether you are a good man or not¨Cwhat does that have to do with me? When one is doing business, one must be amiable and understand the thoughts of each customer. You are obstructing my business. Don¡¯t tell me I am not even allowed to speak out?¡±


    ¡°Presently, it seems I am the only customer in the store so your desire to please your patrons should have nothing to do with me. The majestic Princess of Qi should be restrained in this matter.¡±


    ¡°How did you know?¡± She didn¡¯t seem to have revealed her identity in front of him before.


    ¡°You caused havoc in You Xiang Pavilion and sent Madam Huang to prison. How could I not know?¡±


    ¡°My apologies to have offended your close friend.¡±


    ¡°No matter!¡± Liu Fei Xu shrugged his shoulders and unconsciously added: ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be fine if you became my companion?¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s expression became chilly: ¡°If you are here as a joke, the door is over there; kindly leave.¡± While saying this, she also instructed a salesperson to properly store away the clothes she had just brought in before directing an assistant: ¡°Xiao Lu Zi, attend to this customer. I am going to rest for a bit.¡±


    Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t even glance at Peacock Liu as she strode to the back of the store. Pushing aside the door revealed a wide courtyard¡­¡­Like other shops, the rear courtyard of Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu provided lodgings for the staff and a place to rest for the owner.


    The helper sweeping the floor saw that their master had arrived and carried over freshly brewed aromatic tea with prominent humbleness.


    Ruan Zhu waved her hand to let him withdraw and sat on the sofa, taking a sip of the tea and also pulling over some account ledgers for a look. One couldn¡¯t tell just from looking that Yu¡¯er, that lass, was actually quite earnest in her work for the handwriting in the ledgers were careful and neat. After all, she was a merchant¡¯s child and had been exposed to these things since small so maintaining an accounts book was extremely familiar and easy.


    The room echoed with the sound of the door opening. Ruan Zhu thought the person who had entered was Ruan Yu and spoke without looking: ¡°You finished watching everything so fast?¡± Not hearing a reply, she lifted her eyes yet actually saw Peacock Liu. Her expression immediately changed: ¡°Who allowed you to enter?¡±


    Liu Fei Xu replied naturally: ¡°The door wasn¡¯t locked so I walked in.¡±


    Ruan Zhu coldly stared at the uninvited guest. The rear courtyard was considered her home, okay? Could it be that leaving a door unlocked meant anyone could just let themselves in? If so, why hadn¡¯t she seen him barging inside the imperial palace? ¡°What about the guard?¡± She didn¡¯t believe the guard would randomly allow people to enter without first obtaining her permission.


    ¡°Your family¡¯s servant is not suitable for fights. He fainted after I lightly tapped him.¡±


    ¡°Kindly leave!¡± So there were still this kind of shameless man in Tian Chu! Loathing couldn¡¯t help but to rise in Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart and she moved her eyes away from him as she raised her cup for a sip.


    ¡°This tea leaf of yours is pretty good. Let me see what kind it is?¡± Peacock Liu sat down across from her and reached out to lift up the teapot.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already told you to leave so why are you still here?¡± Ruan Zhu snatched the teapot back. She felt disgusted at coming into contact with something that he had touched.


    One must not only look at the appearance of this peacock for she had heard quite a bit about the things he had done on the sly. Though the matter of him being the flower thief wasn¡¯t yet confirmed, she had heard from Zong Zhi of his identity as Wan Zi Yu and a throbbing headache formed at the very thought of him possibly being covered with germs which could then infect her and her entire household.


    ¡°I never said I was going to leave. How could you treat an old friend like this?¡±


    Ruan Zhu felt this peacock was extremely hard to deal with and her two graceful eyebrows slightly gathered as she gave him a glance: ¡°If you do not wish to walk out by yourself, I will request the yamen to send men over to force you to leave. What do you think?¡±


    Yet he still remained motionless. He had even fixed the Crown Princess a while ago, and while the Princess of Qi was honorable, she wasn¡¯t like a naive commoner who had never seen the world. Seeing that she was still sipping from the teacup in her hand, a secret smirk couldn¡¯t help but reveal itself on the corner of his mouth.


    Ruan Zhu saw that his expression was unusual and elegantly knit her brows a bit, putting down the cup in her hands. But her body became strange¨Ca fiery heat burst forth from within her just like a trembling electric current. Having had so much experience in bed, she naturally knew what it meant and her face changed in bewilderedness: ¡°What did you put in the tea?!¡±


    An aphrodisiac¨Cit must be that! But when had he put in in and why hadn¡¯t she noticed?


    ¡°I added something to the tea earlier when I sat down.¡± A smile flashed in Liu Fei Xu¡¯s eyes: ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t like it. All of you women are like this¨Cmouths saying ¡®no¡¯ but so enthusiastic once we¡¯re in bed.¡±


    Ruan Zhu was furious and snatched the teacup to smash it in his face.


    Liu Fei Xu¡¯s eyes were filled with ridicule as he easily caught the cup and set it back on top of the table: ¡°I¡¯ve met women like you several times before. One shouldn¡¯t look at how proper your appearance is as you¡¯ll turn into liquid as soon as you¡¯re teased for just a bit. Relax, ah, I guarantee you¡¯ll like it.¡±


    ¡°You shameless bastard, you aren¡¯t afraid I¡¯ll kill you?!¡±


    ¡°Haha, not at all. Once you have a taste, you¡¯ll like it. Numerous women have said that they would kill me but after the deed, they then always beg me for more.¡±


    Ruan Zhu saw that this man was incorrigible and hastily called out for someone to come.


    ¡°It¡¯s useless, no one will come. I¡¯ve knocked out all of the workers in the rear courtyard and stuffed them in the firewood shed. No one will come disturb our fun.¡± He advanced a few steps and sat her properly on his lap. His large hand extended inside her lapel to fondle one of her soft breasts and excitement surged within him: ¡°This feels pretty good. No wonder there are so many men that have been charmed half to death by you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s mind was full of murderous thoughts, but the man truly knew how to tease a woman. With just one touch from him, the aphrodisiac that was tormenting her body overflowed at once, circulating unrestrained inside her. She wanted to curse him but what spilled from her lips were sounds similar to delicate moans.


    ¡°Now you¡¯re being obedient!¡± Liu Fei Xu tugged a few times and completely removed all of her clothes. The skin of the woman on his lap was like snow¨Cso sparkling and white¨Cwhile the two mounds on her chest were plump and shook up and down with each of her breaths. What a most beautiful sight.


    ¡°Just by looking, I couldn¡¯t tell that your figure is actually this exceptional.¡± Liu Fei Xu¡¯s eyes immediately misted and he lowered his head to take in a red plum.


    No, she definitely didn¡¯t want to do this with such a flashy and lecherous guy who was covered head to toe in diseases! Doing her best to endure the restlessness within her body, she stretched out her hand and removed a dagger from within a secret compartment on the side of the table. Using all of her strength, she viciously stabbed it into Liu Fei Xu¡¯s back¡­¡­


    All of Liu Fei Xu¡¯s rationality had been seized by desire and he simply didn¡¯t realize danger was at hand, causing him to pay the price for his romantic investment. The cold blade slid into his body and he miserably screamed as he dumped Ruan Zhu onto the ground, jumping up and staggering as he ran outside the room.


    What a pity the stab was slanted!


    Vexed, Ruan Zhu stared at the fleeing figure, not feeling any fright or dread at the thought of potentially killing someone with a knife.


    She was currently being tormented by the aphrodisiac as currents zipped and quivered throughout her body, one by one, rushing along her blood vessels to her brain. Now, she desperately wanted a man to help her get rid of this physical torture.


    Wang Jing Yan had received a message from his father this morning, asking him to return to the residence for a visit.


    He had previously studied in the mountains and was accustomed to hardships so he didn¡¯t even take a carriage and instead walked into the city on foot. After walking for over half a sichen, he arrived at Yu Street and passed by Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu¡¯s entrance. Gazing at the striking thin-gold calligraphy, his footsteps stopped as he continued to stare at it as if he had become foolish.


    Suddenly, a man charged out of Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu and all of the pedestrians immediately stepped aside upon seeing him. The man actually had a knife stuck to his back and blood continued to spill from the wound.


    Wang Jing Yan felt something was amiss. Certain that something had happened, he rushed inside Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu.


    When all of the shop assistants saw a man covered with blood run out of the rear courtyard, they became worried something had happened to their mistress and all headed towards the backyard¡­¡­Wang Jing Yan pushed them aside and took the lead at the very front.

 Chapter 101

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er |(lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Àï | li |unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    While Ruan Zhu¡¯s conscience was fuzzy, she heard a wave of chaotic footsteps growing closer and closer. Her hands wildly roamed around the ground and upon coming in contact with clothing, she covered herself with it. As her mind became more and more frenzied, she couldn¡¯t find the sleeves in her impatience and huddled in the corner with the clothes covering her chest. But the waves of pleasure inside her continued to strengthen, and she bent her waist in torment, indecipherable moans pouring from her mouth, as she vaguely saw a person¡¯s silhouette approach.


    ¡°Niangniang, what happened to you?¡± That person crouched down, removing their outer wear and draping it over her.


    Ruan Zhu pushed her head forward to see, but it was like her eyes had been covered with a layer of fog as she couldn¡¯t see anything clearly. However, the strong manly smell and breath entered her nostrils and the desire within her body abruptly erupted, causing longing to occupy each of her cells.


    She threw herself into the man¡¯s arms and pressed a kiss against his mouth, one of her arms looping around his neck while the other reached inside his clothes. Ah! She lightly sighed. It was like she was looking for a cure that was somewhere on his body as she stretched her hand inside his trousers.


    All of the shop assistants ran in just to see this scene. Full of embarrassment and shock, they successively retreated outside, closing the door behind them. As long as their mistress was sound, their hearts could remain in their chests. If something bad had occurred because of inadequate protection, all of their heads would fall.


    Wang Jing Yan¡¯s eyebrows were pulled all the way up as he stared in shock at the woman in his arms. Even though he had no experience regarding this, he immediately knew what had happened. His arms wrapped around her waist as he urgently pressed: ¡°You were drugged by someone. Who is the bastard that did this?¡±


    ¡°Give me, quickly give it to me.¡± What answered him was yet another hurried kiss and also the tearing of his clothes.


    He picked her up from the ground and entered the bedroom in a few steps, placing her down on the bed.


    But she still held fast to him, refusing to let go. Completely flushed, she panted with difficulty as her chest heaved up and down, her very appearance one of torment. One of her hands recklessly tore at his clothes, and once his top was removed, she then moved on to his pants. After his trousers had been torn off, golden chains were exposed.


    Yet another chastity belt! She was at a loss in her urgency and yanked at the chains, tears in her eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t rush, let me do it.¡± Wang Jing Yan was afraid she would hurt her hand. He had extraordinary martial arts and the minor chains weren¡¯t a challenge. Using some inner strength, he lightly tugged and the chains shattered, falling onto the bed.


    He knew that he would very quickly lose the chastity he had safeguarded for twenty years but his heart was entirely filled with joy. Looking at her snow-white skin, he placed his hands atop her incessantly trembling breasts¡­¡­The exquisite sensation caused his head to become blank and his blood to flare up in a flash.


    As she continued to kiss him, both of her hands reached out to grab his huge member. She moved to straddle him, slowly sitting down and then continued to sway atop him.


    ¡°En!¡± Wang Jing Yan groaned in pleasure and increased his speed in accordance with her movements.


    Desire and passion surged within her like rolling magma that became increasingly stronger. ¡°Ah!¡­¡­¡± Her throat had already become hoarse from all of her screams but she simply couldn¡¯t resist calling out¡­¡­She was going mad!


    She finally welcomed the final eruption. ¡°Ahhh!!¡± She shrieked as her entire body convulsed for a long time while her legs bent and her heels pushed against the bed sheets. Supported on top of Wang Jing Yan, she was entirely drenched with sweat with her long hair damp and moistened from her snowy skin.


    After her climax, Ruan Zhu¡¯s entire body went limp as her eyes turned dark and she collapsed on top of him, losing consciousness.


    During this period, the woman¡¯s corridor became even tighter and the man experienced what it meant for ecstasy to nibble at his bones; what it meant to wish for life or death.


    Wang Jing Yan¡¯s eyes were scarlet. Grabbing her butt, he abruptly flipped her over and then pressed her down, quickly pounding against her several dozen times. When the most glorious pinnacle suddenly arrived, the blaze within his body petered out as he deeply panted for air, his eyes dazzled, while his entire body felt like it was floating.


    Once his reason had been restored, he discovered that the female underneath him had remained motionless all this time. It turned out it was because she had long fainted.


    He pulled her against his chest, dragging over a blanket to cover the both of them. Gazing at the face that frequently appeared in his dreams, a line of tears slid down his cheeks. He didn¡¯t actually know why he was crying; he only felt incredibly happy and moved at this moment.


    Perhaps she didn¡¯t remember the first time they met¨Cit had been in Huang He Tower during the shifting of capitals.


    He had stood behind his father, and she, in an outfit that had been simple and neat, had been led forward by Xuanyuan Zong Zhi.


    The impression she had given others was like a budding daffodil. There had been no ornaments in her hair¨Cno noble gold, silver, or jade, or the vulgar hairpins commonly used by the common folk. What she carried was a pure and immortal aura¡­¡­He had instantly become attracted to her.


    He had wondered at the time¨CHow could there be a female at her age with such a quiet and calm personality? Her subsequent behavior then left a deep impression on him as he was baffled as how she understood so much.


    After that, he continued to always pay attention to her. That time on the stone bridge when she was being bullied by others, he had just happened to have a day off and came out to relieve his boredom. By lucky coincidence, he had came across her and then took it upon himself to assist her. But then not long after, the Prince of Qi arrived.


    When he heard she was recruiting farming experts, he didn¡¯t even think and signed up. And then after that, the amount of times he could see her rapidly increased.


    Staring at the woman in his embrace, he actually felt that none of this was real and it was all a dream. Moving his head over to shower some kisses down on her scarlet mouth, his hand moved to the soft plumpness on her chest, gently kneading. The fantastic sensation once again flowed into his body but he endured it, unwilling for her to be injured during this time.


    Sounds of footsteps suddenly came from outside and it wasn¡¯t only one person. He had been practicing martial arts since small and his hearing was exceptional. On alert, he threw clothes on but had yet to leave the bed when the door opened.


    Two eminently handsome and extraordinary men entered the drawing room and directly headed for the bedroom.


    ¡°Your Highnesses, this subordinate sends his greetings.¡± After sleeping with the others¡¯ wife, Wang Jing Yan wasn¡¯t a bit remorseful and was completely calm.


    Zong Zhi ignored him and stopped at the head of the bed, bending over to inspect his wife. Thankfully, she wasn¡¯t injured¡­¡­But she was haggard, and he frowned after feeling her pulse: ¡°Min Zhi, take a look to see what kind of aphrodisiac Zhu¡¯er was drugged with. Why is she still this weak?¡±


    Min Zhi took in his wife¡¯s pale complexion and anxiety filled his heart. His brows tightly wrinkled: ¡°I also don¡¯t know. I¡¯m not that flower thief nor do I understand medicine. ¡°


    Zong Zhi shouted outside: ¡°Ma Ping, quickly head to the imperial hospital and invite Imperial Physician Zhang over then relay my command and take some men to arrest Liu Fei Xu.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Your Highness.¡±


    The imperial bodyguard standing watch outside the door responded in agreement and immediately set off.


    Zong Zhi found a brand new outfit in a trunk against the wall and personally dressed his wife. Min Zhi sat against the head of the bed and used a comb to straighten her bedraggled hair.


    Once Zong Zhi had finished with his work, he glanced at the Wang Jing Yang standing to one side, asking: ¡°Have you taken the contraceptive?¡±


    Wang Jing Yan froze. This was the first time he had done this kind of thing so how would he have thought about it?


    ¡°You have not, correct?¡± Zong Zhi tilted his head and took his wife from his brother: ¡°Min Zhi, go to the medicine hall to buy a contraceptive for women. It will not be too late if we give it to her as soon as possible.¡±


    There were many types of contraceptives with different efficacies in Tian Chu that were provided by both the yamen and medicine halls.


    ¡°Take care of her properly; I¡¯ll go now. I don¡¯t care what kind of racket Zhu¡¯er makes with that ¡®safe day.¡¯ I¡¯ll feel more at ease once I see her eat it.¡± He had actually been the one who bought the contraceptive the first time Ruan Zhu had slept with Nuan Chun, but she had refused to eat it, saying something about how it was a ¡®safe day¡¯ and there was no need for it.


    After having said that, Min Zhi left the room.


    Zong Zhi carefully placed his wife in the bed, pulling the gold brocade quilt over her. He hadn¡¯t thought Liu Fei Xu would be this outrageously bold in his lust to do this sort of thing. When he had received the message from a spy of the Tian Wang Embassy, he had burned with anxiety while rushing over from the barracks, but was still late by a step.


    The building opposite was a medicine hall, and in less than a quarter of an hour, Min Zhi came back with the purchased contraceptive. It was a blend of several medicines made so that it would be very easy to swallow. Zong Zhi mixed it with some warm water and then took a big mouthful before transferring it into hie wife¡¯s mouth.


    After he finished feeding her, he wiped her lips with a towel. Turning his head to see Wang Jing Yan¡¯s anxious expression, he thought his action needed to be explained clearly: ¡°Mister Wang, please do not misunderstand. Zhu¡¯er had been drugged with an extremely potent aphrodisiac. If she was to have a child under this situation, I fear the child¡¯s health may be strongly affected.¡±


    His meaning was¨Cif by chance your child is born, it is very possible he would be a fool.


    ¡°I understand but will not give up.¡± Wang Jing Yan¡¯s gaze had been fixed on the unconscious female since the very beginning. Thinking of the lingering emotions from earlier, his heart pounded.


    ¡°Then have your father come to the residence to propose marriage!¡±


    Not long after, Imperial Physician Zhang was lead over by an imperial bodyguard. Seeing the person lying in bed, he shook his head: ¡°What is it this time? It is not yet another pregnancy?¡± Pulling her wrist over to feel her pulse, his expression became grave and a bit of anger also seeped through.


    ¡°How is it?¡± All three men turned their inquiring eyes on him.


    Imperial Physician Zhang put down Ruan Zhu¡¯s wrist: ¡°The drug on niangniang was too powerful and taxed her strength so she needs to recuperate for two days. Later, this lowly one will prescribe a medicine to supplement her qi and mend her health. She will become much better after she has taken the prescribed medicine a few times. And another thing¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°What else is there? Feel free to speak.¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang did not respond and looked around the bedroom twice before heading inside the drawing room and returning with a teapot a short moment later. His expression was one of displeasure: ¡°Your Highnesses, please forgive this lowly one for speaking bluntly. It is fine for us men to endure it, but we must not do anything that will injure our wives. It is not that aphrodisiacs must not be used, but one must pay particular attention to its dosage. Too much will put enormous strain on one¡¯s health. Have a taste of this tea. It is such a large dose that even men will not be able to stand it, to say nothing of a weak woman. For it to not have caused you all to have died on the spot from all the play is already miraculous.¡±


    Imperial Physician Zhang thought it was because the married couple had been too excessive in their entertainment, but in reality, it wasn¡¯t like that at all.


    Zong Zhi took the proffered teapot and dipped a finger into the tea before placing it in his mouth. He didn¡¯t taste anything other than the tea water. It seemed that if one wasn¡¯t already aware of and understood medicine, one wouldn¡¯t be able to tell the difference at all. No wonder this tragedy had occurred! He respectfully replied: ¡°What Imperial Physician Zhang said is correct. I will certainly keep this lesson in mind and there will absolutely not be a next time.¡±


    ¡°To have actually come across such a man who disregards his wife¡¯s life or death all for the sake of his own pleasure¨Cwhat kind of man is this?¡± The old man was still dissatisfied and continued to nag.


    ¡°Okay, okay, hurry up and write the prescription. Zhu¡¯er¡®s waiting for you, ah.¡± Finding him annoying, Min Zhi dragged him to the drawing room to write up the prescription.


    Wang Jing Yan waited until the sky had turned completely dark before very reluctantly leaving as it would be inappropriate for him, who had no title or legitimate relationship, to stay any longer. But he had decided to immediately discuss the matter of proposing marriage with his father as soon as he arrived home. He didn¡¯t care about becoming her fifth concubine as long as he could be with her.


    When Ruan Zhu woke, it was already the morning of the second day. Kneading her eyes, her body felt sore and ached all over as if she had just had a serious illness. Shifting a bit, she realized her two husbands were lying on either side, with Zong Zhi on her left and Min Zhi on the right.


    Zong Zhi had been in a light sleep and opened his eyes as soon as he felt movement. Looking with relief at his awake wife, he reproached: ¡°I have already reminded you multiple times to take more bodyguards with you when you go out so why do you still not listen?¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought about Liu Fei Xu and her thick eyelashes became wet with tears. Although women not being chaste wasn¡¯t an issue in Tian Chu, doing that thing with that kind of person really wasn¡¯t her cup of tea.


    ¡°Okay, okay, it was my fault. I should not have said something that would upset you.¡±


    She mumbled: ¡°I took the coachman with me. Our family¡¯s coachman¡¯s martial arts isn¡¯t weak and who would¡¯ve thought something would have happened inside?¡±


    He saw his wife was still quibbling and couldn¡¯t help but to retort: ¡°Wife, I am speaking of imperial bodyguards, not coachmen. Coachmen do not have the qualification to enter the inner rooms. Why on earth did you not take imperial bodyguards with you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not used to it, ah!¡± Although Ruan Zhu was an noble princess, she still unconsciously thought of herself as a small city commoner and was unaccustomed to being completely protected whenever she went out. But at this moment, she was hung up about another matter: ¡°Who was the man that was with me yesterday?¡±


    The feeling that that man had given her didn¡¯t seem to resemble Zong Zhi or Min Zhi. Suddenly, her waist tightened as Min Zhi had hugged her from behind, smiling wryly: ¡°My Zhu¡¯er, you don¡¯t even remember who you had slept with. Look at this brain. In the future, our children absolutely not be as silly as you.¡±


    Ruan Zhu became absent-minded as she recalled the years she had spent with the Yun brothers. They had also frequently done this¨CYun Shi Yi embracing her with his tender care while Yun Shi Wei hugged her waist from behind.


    Eldest Cousin! She silently reminisced in her heart, longing crashing into her like a violent wave.


    Zong Zhi knew his wife¡¯s mind had floated far away again and pulled her to him, saying: ¡°Wife, that man is called Wang Jing Yan; you know him. I and Min Zhi, along with Head Yun and the second Mister Yun, now with the addition of Mister Wang, perfectly makes it five. This amount is enough.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, Second Cousin, and there¡¯s also Nuan Chun.¡± Ruan Zhu added in a small voice.


    ¡°Nuan Chun is a servant thus not valid to be counted.¡±


    Ruan Zhu stayed in Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu to recuperate for two days and was then led by her husbands back to Guan Ju Villa. She really wanted to know what had happened to Liu Fei Xu but the news she received said he had hid inside the Crown Prince¡¯s residence and had become a subject underneath the Crown Princess¡¯s skirt.


    At the beginning of the tenth lunar month, when the farm crops had ripened, the high-tech demonstration field by the side of the Lan River became heavily laden with the fruit of its labor. The rice fields achieved four dan per paddy, and the dazzling kernels were plumper than normal varieties with the straws also being much taller.


    Ruan Zhu was full of happiness and a sense of accomplishment, but it was a pity that she could never achieve the output levels of the future because there was no fertilizer in this era. Actually, making a phosphate fertilizer wasn¡¯t difficult and it was possible as long as one had sulfate. But, she should just write down the method and have someone else make it! She was a small and delicate girl without that much energy or such ambitious goals. As long as it was close enough, it was fine. She would feel content with just properly managing her family.


    On this night, she was laying down on the bed with Min Zhi. He embraced her while pressing kisses all over her body: ¡°Wife, our Fifth is soon to enter the household so you should first give me a son, all right!¡± He was truly jealous from seeing the three little ones circling her every day without any of them being of his blood.


    He had thought his wife wouldn¡¯t agree but who could have imagined she¡¯d nod in agreement: ¡°Wait until after the new year. The coming fifth or sixth lunar month just so happens to be when your contraceptive expires so don¡¯t retake it then¡­¡­¡±


    Since Number Two currently wasn¡¯t returning, let¡¯s just let Number Four have his turn first!


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, you¡¯re the best.¡± Min Zhi became ecstatic and hugged her, not willing to let her go for a long time.


    On the day of the Emperor¡¯s grand fiftieth birthday celebration, news arrived that a major victory had been won on Cang Huang Mountain. The rebels¡¯ twenty thousand-strong army had been annihilated and their survivors didn¡¯t number past one thousand. The imperial army had pursued the retreating enemy and had recaptured most of the land between Cang Huang Mountain and the southern border.


    The five hundred men that Yun Shi Wei led fought fast like lightning and thunder and were given the nickname of ¡®Zhu Ri army.¡¯[a]


    His troops were tenacious and fierce, carrying out assassinations, sabotage, surprise attacks, and all sorts of other methods. When they killed, they were merciless, and in the case of one of them falling in danger from protecting a comrade¡¯s retreat, they usually took down the enemy with them.


    When the Red Eyebrow Army heard the news, all became terrified. Even if there were thirty li between them, as soon as they heard the Zhu Ri army had appeared, they would scramble to set up defensive measures.


    During the last battle, Yun Shi Wei led his Zhu Ri army in transforming into soldiers of the Red Army and infiltrated the enemy¡¯s camp. After the fighting started, he charged into the center of their camp and cut down their commander-in-chief¡¯s head.


    Thus, it just so happened that on the day of the emperor¡¯s grand celebration, the army¡¯s advance troops sent over news of the grand victory.


    After fighting for several years, the day where the Eyebrows had been thrown off was finally ushered in, and the emperor and his retainers gathered in the main hall that was filled with laughter.


    The country of Tian Chu¡¯s Department of Agriculture was formally established and Wang Jing Yan was appointed as its supervisor. Within a few days of the Emperor¡¯s birthday bash, he officially moved inside Guan Ju Villa, becoming Ruan Zhu¡¯s fifth concubine.


    A year and a half later, Ruan Zhu gave birth to male twins for Min Zhi. The older one was called Bo Zhao and the younger one was Ruan Yu Ze.


    Min Zhi held his just-born sons, so happy his mouth didn¡¯t close.


    Bitterly alone since young, he did not have any close full-blood relatives, and now, his wife and children were his entire life.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    ¡°Your Majesty, a letter from the Department of Shipping in Wan Zhou has arrived saying Ruan Zi Xu had returned by ship.¡± Xiao Zhou Zi entered the imperial study with a memorial between his hands.


    The Emperor was currently writing and stared blankly at him before placing the brush back into the holder: ¡°Ruan Zi Xu. It seems Zhu¡¯er¡®s father is called this name?¡±


    ¡°He is indeed the Princess of Qi¡¯s father. Several years prior, he had visited Mongolia to purchase horses and then had men bring a herd of them back a year later. But he himself had not returned and instead had continued west on camels with some servants while taking along silk and porcelain. Later when he arrived in Persia, he became exceptionally wealthy and bought ten thousand good horses and loaded them onto ships before finally reaching Tian Chu after the greater part of a year. Your Majesty, this is the memorial the Department of Shipping in Wan Zhou has presented.¡±


    ¡°Bring it over for me to see!¡± The Emperor took the memorial from Xiao Zhou Zi and became extremely excited after reading it: ¡°Persian horses are even better than the best. Ten thousand good horses¨CRuan Zi Xu, you have done a great service for us.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty is a sign of good fortune that floods the Heavens. With good horses, Tian Chu will be even more invincible against our enemies. This slave will immediately send a letter to the Princess of Qi to put her in a happy mood.¡±


    ¡°Go! I was wondering how that little girl could be so wondrous and it turns out her bloodline is good. Simply by looking at the father¡¯s achievements, it is easy to tell the child will also be one with talent.¡±


    Xiao Zhou Zi was just about to retreat when the Emperor suddenly seemed to have recalled something: ¡°Return, how long will it take for Ruan Zi Xu to return to Lan Zhou?¡±


    ¡°Responding to Your Majesty, the courier said the Department of Shipping had immediately sent out the message over five hundred li on the day Ruan Zi Xu arrived on the docks of Wan Zhou once they realized the ships were full of horses that had been bought for the imperial court. He had also mentioned that Ruan Zi Xu wished to rest and reorganize himself for a few days in Wan Zhou before journeying back to Lan Zhou as he had been journeying by sea for a very long period.¡±


    The Emperor snorted: ¡°This Ruan Zi Xu dared to snatch a grandson from us. Xiao Zhou Zi, go do this for me¡­¡­¡±


    Xiao Zhou Zi retreated from the imperial study, shaking his head while forcing a laugh. The Emperor had truly become old to even vie for face on such a small thing! Ai, you said the Princess of Qi had given the Prince of Yong¡¯s second son up for adoption to the Ruan clan? I really can¡¯t take it anymore!


    [a] ÖðÈÕ¾ü, meaning they are so fast they can catch up to the enemy in one day

 Chapter 102

    Glossary


    Àï | li | unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    The Prince said: I am truly happy you finally decided to fly south, little Sparrow, for you have stayed here too long. But you must first place a kiss on my lips for I love you.


    Little Sparrow murmured a reply: It is not to the South I am going. After subsequently kissing the Happy Prince¡¯s mouth, it then fell underneath the prince¡¯s foot, dead¡­¡­[a]


    Speaking to here, Ruan Zhu stopped and glanced at the expressions of the several children before her.


    ¡°And then, and then? Little Sparrow died then what about the little Prince?¡± The three- or four-years old Bo Ya widened her watery eyes, her little mouth opening as she directed her mournful, small face at her mother.


    ¡°And then¡­¡­little Sparrow fell onto the ground, dead, and then a peculiar crack was heard inside from within a statue as if something had shattered. It was actually the little Prince¡¯s lead heart that had broke into two pieces.¡±


    ¡°His heart broke into two pieces; did he die? The little Prince won¡¯t die, right? Mama, tell me.¡± Bo Ya¡¯s chubby and small hands clutched a corner of her mother¡¯s skirt, hope flashing across her tiny face.


    ¡°Stupid Xiao Ya. The little Prince¡¯s heart had already split so how could he not have died?¡± Zhi Xi was, after all, a little older and understood more things.


    ¡°The little Prince was both stupid and foolish. He gave away his precious stone and even gave away his eyes. He deserved to die, but what a pity for the poor swallow.¡± The one who spoke was Bo Yu. This little one was the same age as his little sister but he spoke amazingly well as he declared his own opinion.


    Bo Ya wailed, sniffling and sobbing: ¡°The little Prince won¡¯t die. He¡¯s also not stupid.¡±


    ¡°All right, the little Prince won¡¯t die. Ai, he originally was a statue¡­¡­not having a brain is also normal. Xiao Ya, don¡¯t cry.¡± Ruan Zhu picked up her daughter and soothed her. Nearly all of the Oscar Wilde¡¯s works that she had read in her childhood had left a strange yet warm shadow. Telling this story to her children was to make them understand that there were also many poor commoners in the world who could not afford to eat, so while they enjoyed their privileged lives, they also must learn how to think about this issue.


    In middle school, she had read from a history book that Du Fu had wrote ¡°Vermilion doors with rotten wine and meat, frozen bones along the roads¡± with a broken heart after hearing his youngest son had starved to death. However, that famous historical phrase was then ridiculed by Prime Minister Yan Shu of the Song dynasty.[b]


    It was impossible for those who had never starved before to understand the horrifying tragedy of seeing your loved ones slowly starve to death. Fancy that he was still a prime minister. It could be seen that he was one without class or morals.


    She currently had five children and each one of them was a precious treasure in her hands. Like all parents of this world, she hoped they would have good prospects in the future with the sons becoming dragons and her daughter becoming a phoenix.[c]


    Ruan Zhu drove the two little boys outside to play. Of her five children, Bo Ya was the sole girl and had been spoiled by Zong Zhi to become extremely delicate. Even Bo Zhao and Yu Ze, whose births weren¡¯t that long ago, didn¡¯t need to be carried and cajoled every day.


    After she had coaxed Bo Ya to sleep, she handed her daughter over to her wet nurse.


    She then headed towards the other room to peek at the just-born twins who were now a little over a month old. The two wet nurses were currently sitting beside their beds, nursing them. She walked in and took one of her sons, pushing aside her lapel so that he could suckle. A smile formed on her face as she took in his tiny mouth moving without pause, the radiance of maternal love flashing on her face.


    She only returned to her own room when the twins had fallen asleep. Nowadays, she rarely visited the high tech experimental field because her responsibility as a qualified wife and mother was even more important, and managing her household well was her largest duty.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, look. This is the clothing that was made according to your instructions. Try it on to see if it fits?¡± Nuan Chun held out a warm-yellow long dress with a plunging neckline. He had received the position as the head of Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu¡¯s embroidery department and frequently used that authority to create beautiful clothes for Ruan Zhu.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, your tailoring skills have become better than ever. Look at how these stitches are smoother and closer than¡­¡­¡± than a sewing machine. The latter half of the sentence got caught in her throat. Although it had already been a long time since she transmigrated, she still sometimes carelessly blurted out some of the vocabulary of her previous world. Alas, this was the aspect where she differed from them. No matter how much time passed, she could never change into a woman of this era as some of her previous world¡¯s habits had been engraved into her soul and were thus difficult to change.


    Ruan Zhu changed with his assistance. This floor-length cheongsam really defined the waist, and with its flowing sleeves that barely reached her wrists, it brought an air of elegance among its simplicity.


    She scrutinized her reflection in the large mirror on the wall, extremely pleased with both the skirt and her figure. She was a now a mother of five children yet was only twenty years old. Since giving birth to Bo Zhao and Yu Ze, she had become aware that youth was fleeting and started to practice yoga every day.


    She had seen a video in her past life of a forty year old married Japanese woman who still looked twenty and in her prime because she maintained her beauty and took good care of herself year-round.


    As the saying goes: there were no ugly women in the world, only lazy women.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, it is very fitting and looks very good.¡± Nuan Chun gazed at his mistress, his eyes completely filled with admiration.


    Zong Zhi returned to Guan Ju Villa from the barracks and directly entered Yi Zhu Cottage. His eyes brightened upon seeing his wife¡¯s winsome figure. ¡°My wife is truly beautiful.¡± Pulling her into his arms, he kissed her for a while before handing over a letter.


    Ruan Zhu took the letter and read it before suddenly giving a delighted cry, forgetting herself: ¡°Oh my god, is this saying Second Cousin is coming back?¡±


    ¡°The news came today at noon. The imperial army has already broken through the enemy¡¯s final line of defense, with the soldiers at the walls of Nan Hua, slowly and steadily besieging the city. The fraudulent emperor sent emissaries outside the city to negotiate peace, saying he was willing to life the rest of his life as the imperial court¡¯s subject. Unfortunately, it was already too late and the imperial army is continuing to strengthen its siege, not letting the rebels off in the slightest.¡±


    The city of Nan Hua was the Red Eyebrows¡¯ last line of defense. It wasn¡¯t far from the southern border¡¯s Mao Er Town and was the location where the Red Eyebrows had first started their revolt during the beginning of their rebellion. ¡°As long as they¡¯re willing to leave their city in surrender, then that should be enough, right? There are still plenty of innocent civilians inside that will also be implicated.¡±


    ¡°The commoners of the rebels are also subjects of the imperial court. As long as they are willing to pledge their loyalty, Father-Emperor will surely let bygones be bygones.¡± Zong Zhi saw his wife was happy and his spirits also rose: ¡°After fighting such a long war, the imperial treasury is empty and the civilians find life difficult, but now that the war is on the eve of its conclusion, our officers and soldiers can withdraw and return back to the capital after a few more months.¡±


    Who knew what the Yun Shi Wei who had been baptized in the battlefield would become? Would he be his previous self of a supercilious and straightforward youth, or an extraordinary general with a soldierly appearance?!


    ¡°Second Cousin is finally coming back.¡± Ruan Zhu slanted a gaze at the two boys, Zhi Xi and Bo Yu, in the garden. Urgently wanting to share this happiness with someone, she ran outside and picked up little Zhi Xi: ¡°Ma will tell you a good piece of news¨Cyour second uncle is returning from the battlefield.¡±


    ¡°Second Uncle?¡± Zhi Xi scratched his head, bewildered: ¡°Ma, you¡¯re muddled. What does Second Uncle returning have anything to do with me? Seeing how you¡¯re so happy, I thought it was Pa that was returning.¡±


    Ruan Zhu became angered: ¡°You heartless thing, to think how much your Second Uncle has always loved you so.¡±


    Little Zhi Xi wasn¡¯t convinced and pouted his small mouth: ¡°There¡¯s plenty of people who dearly love Zhi Xi¨CThird Father, Fourth Father, Fifth Father, Uncle Nuan Chun, and there¡¯s also Grandpapa and Grandmama in the Yun Manor plus a whole squadron of imperial bodyguards in the residence who loves me.¡±


    ¡°Big Brother Lu, do you see how heartless he is?¡±


    Zong Zhi walked out from the room, and in complaint, Ruan Zhu thrust Zhi Xi into his arms. While Yun Shi Yi was absent, all of the people in Guan Ju Villa blindly followed Zong Zhi as he was dependable and handled things well.


    ¡°Zhi Xi, be good. Third Father will take you out for a ride.¡± Zong Zhi smiled as he held Zhi Xi with one hand while leading his son, Bo Yu, with the other as they headed out of Yi Zhu Cottage.


    Good things came in pairs. Just while Ruan Zhu was exulting in Yun Shi Wei¡¯s imminent return, Xiao Zhou Zhi, who attended to the emperor, arrived at Guan Ju Villa via carriage. After performing the rites, he then announced that Ruan Zi Xu had returned to Tian Chu by sailing across the ocean, was currently resting and reorganizing in Wan Zhou and would return to Lan Zhou within the next few days.


    Ruan Zhu was immediately thunderstruck and then asked with a heart full of anticipation: ¡°Did Head Yun return with him?¡±


    Xiao Zhou Zi was taken aback: ¡°This one has not heard any news regarding that. The year Head Yun left on his voyage, he was followed by several dozen large ships with fluttering brocade flags that made for such a magnificent sight. If he was to return, there would surely be fast couriers heading towards Lan Zhou with the news!¡±


    There was also the imperial navy as an escort, so there was bound to be a commotion as soon as they reached the port.


    Saudade overwhelmed Ruan Zhu and she didn¡¯t even know when Xiao Zhou Zi left. Listless, she didn¡¯t eat much during the evening meal and returned alone to her room afterwards to blankly stare in space.


    Seeing that their wife¡¯s mood wasn¡¯t good, her husbands lingered in Yi Zhu Cottage, none of them willing to leave.


    ¡°All of you should retire for the night. It will be fine with just me here.¡± Wang Jing Yan toughened his face as he attempted to drive the others away. Today was finally his turn and all of these blind men followed in stirring up trouble, making him grow angrier with each glance. Zong Zhi hugged his wife as he sat by the head of the bed, unhurriedly saying: ¡°Since Wife is not in a good mood, it is everyone¡¯s responsibility to comfort her. Fifth only knows to satisfy himself¨Cthis is too heartless.¡±


    Ruan Zhu rolled her eyes: ¡°Don¡¯t describe yourself as so lofty; I can¡¯t take it. It¡¯s obvious that all of you want to take advantage of this situation and rub my oil[d] yet you still think I don¡¯t know it?¡±


    ¡°Wife is not making sense again. It seems this husband will have to properly punish you tonight.¡± A strange smile was hooked on the corner of Zong Zhi¡¯s mouth as he pushed a hand inside her night clothes, his movements nice and slow as he rubbed, while his other hand stretched downwards and began to tease her susceptible spot.


    His so-called ¡°punishment¡± was very unusual as it often caused her to be unable to get out of bed.


    She closed her mouth, thinking to herself¨CWho allowed all of you to create such a large disturbance? I don¡¯t care anymore! But his provocation caused her body to become limp.


    Min Zhi stared at his wife¡¯s seductive appearance and noiselessly walked in front of her before immediately carrying out his mission. Throwing off her clothes, he buried his head between her breasts, taking one of her red plums into his mouth as his other hand grabbed the remaining one.


    She bit her lip and couldn¡¯t help but to remind them: ¡°Okay, stop it. Today is Jing Yan¡¯s turn so stop disturbing us.¡±


    It was like Zong Zhi hadn¡¯t heard her at all. He attached herself to her ear, smirking: ¡°Wife, you¡¯re wet!¡±


    Irritation formed in Ruan Zhu¡¯s heart and she shifted her body, extending her hands into either man¡¯s pants. One hand on each shaft, she gripped the two mens¡¯ desires located at the base of their crotches and responded as if in retaliation: ¡°Lord Husbands, you¡¯re hard.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, and Wife is in charge of soothing it.¡±


    Nuan Chun carried a basin of warm water in and placed Ruan Zhu¡¯s feet inside: ¡°Eldest Miss, this slave will wash your feet for you. It will be easier to retire for the night once that has been done.¡± Ruan Zhu repeatedly moaned from Zong Zhi¡¯s teasing and her coquettish eyes were like smoke: ¡°Wu¡­¡­Nuan Chun¡­¡­how many times have I said it¡­¡­don¡¯t call yourself a slave¡­¡­why have you forgotten it again¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°I remember now.¡± After Nuan Chun finished washing one of her sparkling and beautiful feet, he pulled it close to his lips and sucked on two of her delicate toes.


    Wang Jing Yan¡¯s cold voice rang out: ¡°All of you are too outrageous. Wife should be mine today so I want to be first.¡±


    Zong Zhi¡¯s mouth twitched: ¡°Do not be so narrow-minded. At worst, after tonight, I will let you have our wife for one more day.¡±


    Jing Yan¡¯s expression became a little better, and he pried apart his wife¡¯s slender and long legs. Zong Zhi¡¯s finger was still provoking that particular spot, creating a stain on the bed sheets that was caused by a liquid that continued to trickle down¡­¡­Looking at it incited his entire body to be in an uproar. Taking out Zong Zhi¡¯s finger, he took back what was his. He stripped himself and then supported his little brother inside her.


    After Jing Yan, it was Zong Zhi, and then Min Zhi, with the last spot being Nuan Chun¡¯s¡­¡­


    They continued until over half the night had passed. The men could finally be considered as having ate their fill and left, one by one¡­¡­Ruan Zhu was so tired that her entire body ached and even panting for air was a strenuous task.


    Jing Yan massaged her acupuncture points, which helped in soothing her qi and blood.


    Ruan Zhu laid on her belly in bed, yelping: ¡°Jing Yan, it hurts. Lighter.¡±


    ¡°It is already very light. I am using a little bit of inner force. This way, the qi and blood vessels will quickly be unblocked, and I guarantee that tomorrow morning, you will be as you normally are.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m already much better now. So tired, Jing Yan, let¡¯s sleep. My Pa will return soon and I still need to prepare to receive him. Oh, and Second Cousin is also returning soon.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu was almost home. Ruan Zhu was very glad but also a little worried.


    She had received news regarding Madam Ruan not too long ago, or maybe it was something that Tian Wang Embassy had found. In a mountain village five hundred li from Lan Zhou, Madam Ruan had opened a small tavern with Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu, earning several dozen copper wen every day and surviving with great difficulty. Because Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu¡¯s two sons could not receive a good education, they had become like mountain villagers.


    At that time, Ruan Zhu had still been in her month-long confinement and could not leave her room. After Ruan Yu had known about their situation, she had taken some servants with her to the mountain village one time to implore their mother to come home with her. But Madam Ruan¡¯s temperament was one that was inflexibly stubborn, and she had refused to return no matter what was said.


    Ruan Zhu sank into contemplation. This married couple should be one that still has feelings for each other. Should she find a way to act as the middleman?


    She held weak emotions towards Madam Ruan and did not have much of a preconceived bias, thus hoped that they were able to reconcile. But there was also another selfish reason¨Cshe was very unwilling to let Ruan Zi Xu bring home a young and attractive woman. Having her and Ruan Yu call that lady ¡®Mother¡¯ was something she could never do.


    That was precisely because her father in her previous world had liked the new and hated the old. It had caused her mother to be abandoned and then die an early death. Towards the word ¡®stepmother,¡¯ she rejected it from the bottom of her heart.


    [a] This is an excerpt from Oscar Wilde¡¯s story ¡°The Happy Prince,¡± which is about a statue who meets a little sparrow and has it send all of his precious stones and other decorations to the poor villagers. The entire story can be found on Gutenberg while Wiki has a summary.


    [b] Du Fu (712-770) is one of China¡¯s most famous poets. (Wikipedia) The phrase is an excerpt from his poem ×Ô¾©¸°·îÏÈÏØÓ½»³Îå°Ù×Ö Five Hundred Words of My Thoughts from the Capital to Feng Xian which compares the haves and the have-nots. Prime Minister Yang Shu (991-1055) was also a celebrated poet. (Wikipedia)


    [c] Íû×Ó³ÉÁú£¬ÍûÅ®³É·ï, idiom translated literally above that means ¡®hoping one¡¯s [child] is successful in life. Left it literally translated bc of the double meaning as the kids are royalty.


    [d] ¿«ÓÍ lit. wipe/rub oil means to take advantage of someone. It¡¯s basically the same meaning as ¡°eat [someone¡¯s] tofu¡± (which I think everyone of this genre is familiar with) except according to Baiku, this phrase is older while tofu is more modern slang.

 Chapter 103

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er |(lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ½­ºþ | word |community of martial artists


    The Ruan clan already had a residence in Lan Zhou. It was the large, seventh building located in the city¡¯s wealthy district and had, since the beginning, been managed by Steward Yang and a few servants. Ruan Yu had disliked the cheerless atmosphere, thus had been living in Guan Ju Villa these past few years. Now that she had heard her father was soon to return, she pulled her older sister back to the residence, planning to carefully tidy everything with the intention of moving in once their father had returned.


    Ruan Zhu arrived at the Ruan residence and scrutinized the red walls and yellow roofs. The multi-colored beams and general appearance gave the building a luxurious and noble air, and it was really only lacking a few amenities. Scribbling down a list of items to be purchased, she handed it to Steward Yang and also called a slave trader to lead in several dozen honest and well-behaved servants. The trial period for the workers would be one month; those that did well would remain while those who didn¡¯t would be sent out.


    Once everything had pretty much been put in place, Ruan Zhu decided the main room lacked some small ornamental decorations and had people bring over famous calligraphy and paintings, Ru ware, the four treasures of the study, and other such items from Guan Ju Villa.


    But Ruan Yu felt that wasn¡¯t enough and pulled her sister with her to personally go buy more.


    Every woman had a habit of window-shopping and Ruan Zhu was naturally up for the task.¡£


    Seeing that she had gone through several harrowing experiences, Zong Zhi had set aside four imperial bodyguards that were to follow his wife no matter where she went.


    Ruan Yu took Lian Xi, who had originally been her bedwarmer. As the two of them had grown up together, they held deep feelings for each other, and he had been promoted to the level of a secondary husband several years earlier. Because Ruan Yu was finally turning nineteen this year, there had been a never-ending stream of matchmakers and proposals since a few years back.


    Ruan Zhu had thought they could no longer wait so she had sifted through Zong Zhi¡¯s colleagues and had found some renowned, young generals with good characters and from the upper stratum to be her younger sister¡¯s concubines. However, the position of Ruan Yu¡¯s principal husband had continued to remain empty. Ruan Zhu knew her sister had an inflexible mind and absolutely insisted on waiting for Shen Zhong Yun.


    But how could a man who carried the stigma of a courtesan be qualified to enter the Ruan residence¡¯s doors? And then for him to absolutely have to be the legitimate husband? Don¡¯t even mention how unwilling Ruan Zhu and the several husbands were¨Cshe was only afraid that if Ruan Zi Xu was to know of the matter, he would ignite in fury. Because of this topic, Ruan Zhu had frequently grumbled with her sister but Ruan Yu always had an argument to refute her.


    ¡°He¡¯s merely carrying the title of being of the Four Great Masters. It is not as if he is actually a courtesan.¡±


    ¡°Yu¡¯er, you¡¯re too confused. His name is known so even if he isn¡¯t a courtesan, what of it? In the eyes of an upstanding person, he is one that will forever carry a stain.¡± Ruan Zhu patted her shoulder, patiently persuading.


    ¡°Then what about Brother-in-law Zong Zhi? Was he not also previously one of the Four Great Masters?¡± Ruan Yu really hoped her sister could offer her support on this topic and looked at her with a face full of innocence: ¡°Nowadays, Brother-in-law Zong Zhi is high above and respected by everyone. Who still remembers he had still stayed in that sort of place before?¡±


    ¡°There is the noble imperial household as Zong Zhi¡¯s backing. What does Shen Zhong Yun have?¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes shone with justification and her words were somewhat sharp: ¡°Shen Zhong Yun only has a father who opened a brothel and still operates his business by exploiting male bodies. Yu¡¯er, Father will definitely disagree. Our family has paid too much because of Wei Rong. Don¡¯t tell me you want to continue the tragedy? In the future when you have children, what will you do? Will you let your children also be shamed?¡±


    Wei Jia and Ruan Ju had lived very disgracefully precisely because their father had came from a brothel.


    Ruan Yu remained silent. She had suffered so many wrongs when young that even now, thinking of how their mother had affectionately held Ruan Ju so many times caused her heart to overflow with pain.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er!¡± Ruan Zhu softened her voice: ¡°If you still insist on having Shen Zhong Yun be a bedwarmer or an escort, Older Sister will follow you. But being the principal husband is absolutely not possible, and I can only say that giving him the position of a concubine would, with great difficulty, barely be allowed.¡±


    Young lasses of the ancient world were quite blind when it came to matters of love. Just like in dramas where young misters and ladies would pledge to marry each other without their parents¡¯ approvals, if a wealthy young miss and a poor scholar eloped, it would be regarded by busybodies as a romantic and beautiful endeavor. But a string of matters would arise after marriage, such as figuring out what to do for their daily needs and the fearsome gossip mill, that would always drive the newlyweds into the cold abyss.


    Love was very romantic, but marriage was about living out the rest of one¡¯s life together.


    A sheltered, ancient lady had no worries. If she didn¡¯t spend her days watching plays, then it was to read and became bewitched by the stories weaved by swindlers. On the other hand, the women of the twenty-first century were very realistic. When they looked for a spouse, it was standard that they first looked at their potential husband¡¯s economic condition. A house, a car, banknotes¨Cnot a single one could be lacking.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er, all of the new concubines you have just accepted have rather good qualifications and also treat you sincerely. If a courtesan from a brothel was to enter their circle, it is very likely animosity would arise. At that time, a home won¡¯t be like a home, hatred would form between husbands and wife, and the children will also suffer. It isn¡¯t without reason that people pay particular attention to how marriages must be between families of equal standings.¡±


    It seemed like Ruan Yu had finally been persuaded as her expression turned contemplative.


    ¡°Eldest Sister, I am already nineteen years old and am no longer that headstrong, young girl. You should be at ease. I left the position of principal husband empty not because of Shen Zhong Yun; it is because I have yet to meet one who deserved the position and my investment.¡±


    ¡°Those words had better not be heard by my brother-in-laws or else they¡¯ll throw a tantrum.¡±


    ¡°Your sister isn¡¯t that foolish. I would not say that in front of them.¡±


    Ruan Zhu took four imperial bodyguards; Ruan Yu took Lian Xi¨Cthe entire group chattered as they went out.


    The most flourishing street in Lan Zhou was Yu Street. Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu and Yun Shi Yi¡¯s Tian Yi Pavilion were specifically situated here.


    While Yun Shi Yi wasn¡¯t in Tian Chu, all of the properties of the Yun and Ruan residences were being managed by Master Yun and Madam Yun of the Yun manor. When Ruan Zhu was free, she would go over and give some assistance. However, today¡¯s main objective was to have a stroll and window-shop so there was no point in going to her own shops to make things hard for herself.


    With the exception of the imperial palace, Yu Street had the most refined buildings in all of Lan Zhou. Pedestrians moved in groups through the rows of buildings decorated with vermilion pavilions and flying eaves, the atmosphere one of peace and happiness. The shadow of the prolonged drought that had previously devastated half of Tian Chu could already no longer be seen thanks to the years of management that had followed.


    The two sisters shopped at several stores and bought several luxury goods, handing them over for the imperial bodyguards to carry.


    ¡°Not only do the bakers in these snack stores know how to make pastries, they can also make them in such different styles. I¡¯ve also never seen you love food this much. Why is it that you can¡¯t move your eyes away now?¡± The two women had just exited a pastry store after buying some but Ruan Yu then stopped in front of a stall selling maltose sugar. All of the items sold there were common and unsanitary but the girl asked for two catties as soon as she opened her mouth. Ruan Zhu nagged but still let her have her way.


    After taking the candy, the money was handed over. Ruan Yu ate two chunks, found them tasteless, refused to eat any more, and threw the paper bag to Lian Xi for him to carry.


    Ruan Zhu felt something was fishy and blinked her eyes as she took in the scene. Laughing, she teased: ¡°This girl, could it be you¡¯ve got a bun¡­¡­?¡± Ruan Yu saw her sister beaming as she mocked her and asked in confusion: ¡°Have what? What could I have that Elder Sister is not aware of?¡±


    Ruan Zhu bubbled with laughter: ¡°Silly girl, there¡¯s a baby in your belly. It¡¯s not like I¡¯m the baby¡¯s father so what am I supposed to be clear about, ah?¡±


    ¡°Baby?¡± Ruan Yu felt her abdomen in astonishment. Thinking about it, she had indeed been a little strange recently. Not talking about how she¡¯s been feeling dizzy and weak, she had even been picky with food and it really resembled the time when her older sister had been pregnant with her sweet little nephew.


    ¡°You¡¯ve become a mother yet you still don¡¯t know. How is the baby supposed to be properly born with you carelessly running around all over the place? The first two months of pregnancy are the most crucial and you must not be negligent. Hurry and follow Older Sister in returning home so you can rest.¡±


    ¡°I am not that frail; my health and body are both good.¡± Ruan Yu was like all mothers who had just discovered their pregnancy. There was unbounded joy found within her astonishment, but also a little bit of embarrassment.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s stroll around a little more. When we return, I¡¯ll have the kitchen stew a pot of chicken broth for you to supplement your body with. It¡¯s all right if no one else eats it, but the baby in your stomach must not go hungry.¡± Ruan Zhu laughed and pulled on her sister¡¯s hand. But her words had only been said halfway when a clear voice rang out from the side, immediately interrupting her. ¡°Zhu¡¯er.¡± From listening, it was Wang Jing Yan who had spoken.


    The two sisters turned towards the source of the voice, their gazes passing through the bustling crowd and landing on two tall men that were currently making their way towards them from a distance that wasn¡¯t far. In front was Wang Jing Yan; behind him was his fifth brother, Wang Shen Yan. The two brothers both had stately airs and outstanding appearances, like sparkling pearls that shone amidst the common crowd that was a myriad of rubble.


    ¡°Who would have thought the both of you had also come out for some shopping? Are you looking to buy something?¡± Wang Jing Yan stepped closer and revealed a sweet smile. Thinking of the lingering emotions from last night, he gazed at his wife with eyes completely full of gentleness.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it because Papa is almost home? We¡¯re hurrying to tidy the residence for Papa¡¯s return. Oh right, Jing Yan, why are you here?¡± Ruan Zhu saw the tenderness on her husband¡¯s face and a syrupy sweet feeling seeped into her heart.


    ¡°It will be Father¡¯s birthday in a few days. I came out with Fifth Brother to see what we should buy as his present.¡±


    ¡°Father?¡± Ruan Zhu stared blankly at him before abruptly realizing: ¡°Ah, Sir Prime Minister. His birthday is coming up? Why haven¡¯t you told me? If I was to miss it, how discourteous would it look?¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t we too busy last night?¡± Jing Yan lightly laughed, his eyes glued on his wife since the beginning: ¡°Telling you now is not too late.¡±


    Ruan Zhu became embarrassed and whispered to him: ¡°Lord Husband, you shouldn¡¯t blab like that; others will laugh.¡± She was afraid to see mocking eyes and lifted her eyes to glance at Shen Yan and Lian Xi. Lian Xi was born a slave so even if he thought one way inside, he could never express it outwards.


    But that was hard to say for Shen Yan. However, the scene that she witnessed once she raised her head left her gobsmacked. Shen Yan currently had an arm wrapped around Ruan Yu¡¯s waist and had lowered his face to gaze in the other¡¯s eyes. And, the two people¡¯s faces were nearly touching.


    Ruan Yu was softly leaning against Shen Yan¡¯s chest with her eyes half closed, tranquil and content.


    ¡°Oh my god!¡± Ruan Zhu was so shocked her hand flew up over her mouth and she whisper-screamed: ¡°What in the world are the two of you doing in such a crowded place! Other people are staring!¡± It was true¨Cthe commoners passing by were all throwing over peculiar glances.


    Hey you two, Tian Chu wasn¡¯t so open-minded as to allow a man and a woman to openly embrace each other in the middle of the street, ah! Ruan Zhu forcefully coughed twice.


    It was only then that the two involved felt it was inappropriate and hastily broke apart, keeping a one meter distance between them.


    Ruan Yu¡¯s face flushed from embarrassment and she stammered: ¡°Someone almost knocked into me earlier and I thought¡­¡­I thought it was not good for my health¡­¡­so I quickly tried to avoid them, but nearly stumbled. Fortunately, Mister Shen Yan steadied me.¡±


    ¡°So it was like that!¡± Ruan Zhu¡¯s tone was normal, but she was inwardly thinking: Sweetie, you think I can¡¯t see through your excuse? Who steadies someone and never lets go? Had he been stuck to you with glue?


    Nevertheless, it wasn¡¯t the least bit strange that Shen Yan would have a favorable impression of Yu¡¯er.


    Yu¡¯er had been born beautiful. With eyes that were both large and bright like two pools of spring water, and skin like glossy jade, she resembled a lovely porcelain doll. She had increasingly blossomed into a mature and beautiful woman over the years. It was precisely because she was so beautiful that her several secondary husbands unswervingly followed her.


    ¡°Shen Yan, many thanks for helping my younger sister.¡± Ruan Zhu faced him as she gave her gratitude. Yu¡¯er was pregnant, and it really would have been disastrous if something had happened so it was even more fortunate that he had caught her.


    ¡°A small matter.¡± Giving a calm and beautiful smile, Shen Yan accidentally glanced at Ruan Yu. The latter was smiling with her eyes lowered, exposing distinct and shallow dimples on her cheeks¨CA truly graceful and elegant person after his own heart.


    Ruan Zhu was suddenly struck with an idea. With limpid eyes, she pretended as if she didn¡¯t know anything: ¡°Shen Yan, my younger sister does not feel too well. May I trouble you to send her back to Guan Ju Villa? Your elder brother and I will stroll a little more and return after we finish purchasing some things.¡±


    ¡°All right. I also happen to be free.¡± Shen Yan¡¯s clear voice rang out and he slightly cupped his hands towards Ruan Yu: ¡°Younger Miss Ruan, please.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Sister, how could you abandon me?¡± Ruan Yu pouted.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er, Jing Yan and I would like to be alone. You should already know what is meant by ¡®couples are most annoyed by bystanders that disturb them,¡¯ so don¡¯t be like a door god[a] and get in our way. Jing Yan, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s voice was indifferent and firm. OMG¨CYu¡¯er really wanted to impede her good deed. Having said that, she called out to her husband, turned around, and continued walking along the street in a speed that was neither too fast nor too slow¡­¡­Her four imperial bodyguards kept pace behind her.


    Mister Shen Yan was similar to his older brother with his steady temperament and patience. It would be a good thing if such an outstanding man like him was to be with Yu¡¯er. If it would also cause her to forget about Shen Zhong Yun, wouldn¡¯t it be great? Ruan Zhu was looking forward to it¨Clooking forward to it very much.


    ¡°Jing Yan, don¡¯t you think Fifth Brother and Yu¡¯er are very promising?¡±


    ¡°When did Zhu¡¯er begin to like being a matchmaker?¡± Jing Yan faintly smiled and pulled on his wife¡¯s delicate wrist: ¡°Don¡¯t judge Shen Yan on his easy-going personality; that guy is rarely moved by maidens. Actually, it should be said his heart is originally cold. Several years, Father forced him to get married and he actually fled into the mountains to be a Daoist priest, even giving himself an honorific title of Wan Kong Zi or something.¡±


    ¡°Why is Shen Yan not moved by maidens? Don¡¯t tell me he doesn¡¯t like women?¡± If he didn¡¯t like women, then he could only like men¨Cit couldn¡¯t be! Although she only seen this Fifth Brother of the Wang clan a few times, from her observations he shouldn¡¯t be that kind of person.


    ¡°Wife, where have your thoughts gone?¡± Jing Yan had followed his wife for a while now and had long realized and accepted that she had several strange ways of thinking. ¡°Fifth Brother is only emotionless; I have never seen him put anyone in his heart before. His birth father is my mother¡¯s fourth concubine, and he died of an illness when Shen Yan was three years old. He has a reclusive nature and since small, wasn¡¯t sociable, so he has always been lonely.¡±


    ¡°Pitiful child.¡± Ruan Zhu sighed, sympathy flashing in her watery eyes.


    However, many examples proved that the colder a man¡¯s outward appearance was, the more passionate his heart was. Once that string at the innermost of his heart had been struck, a fiery spark would burst out. He would protect that emotion for the rest of his life and steadfastly follow and treat his lover.


    ¡°Jing Yan, weren¡¯t you also incredibly lonely when you went deep into the mountains during your childhood to learn martial arts?¡±


    ¡°Master treated me very like, just like a father. After his death, I drifted around the jianghu, more or less traveling to all parts of this country. One day, a letter from my father, who had become the Prime Minister, arrived, beckoning me to return home. Afterwards, while the capital was moving, I met you.¡±


    ¡°Pitiful Jing Yan. Don¡¯t feel sad, I will treat you well for a lifetime.¡±


    Jing Yan¡¯s heart moved, and he tightly gripped his wife¡¯s hand.


    The couple continued to chat as they walked. Strolling toward a jewelry and accessory store, they had yet to reach the entrance when they saw a group of shop assistants brandishing sticks as they drove out a stench-ridden man.


    ¡°Young Boss, the Master and Madam made it clear they have already severed any and all familial ties with you and have forbidden you from ever entering anything of the Liu clan¡¯s. Young Boss, you should hurry and leave Ming Xiang Cui Yu!¡±


    ¡°Manager Yu, I beg you to allow me to just say a few words to Father and have someone treat me. I will definitely change; I will not be as intemperate as I was before.¡±


    A man with an appearance of a manager stepped out of the jewelry store, his expression pained: ¡°Young Boss, begging you to not make things hard for this small one. It is also not easy for this small one to be the manager of Ming Xiang Cui Yu, and this small one does not wish to throw away this livelihood. You also have to consider the type of illness you have. All of the customers have been scared off by you.¡±


    The ugly man loudly cried: ¡°My illness can be treated; it can definitely be treated as long as you give me money.¡±


    It was only at this time that Ruan Zhu noticed that the entirety of the pleading man¡¯s face and arms were full of sores and there were even some that oozed pus. The stench precisely came from those abscesses.


    What a terrifying face! Ruan Zhu was a little scared and immediately gripped her husband¡¯s hand, taking tiny steps as she retreated backwards and hid behind him.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, it¡¯s all right.¡± Wang Jing Yan flipped their hands over so that it was in a more comforting hold.


    The ugly man dejectedly staggered a few steps. Turning around, he caught sight of Ruan Zhu and blankly stared at her before yelling: ¡°It¡¯s you! The eldest miss of the Ruan clan!¡±


    Ruan Zhu dazedly looked at him before suddenly thinking of a person! That year in Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu, the lascivious man who had drugged her with an aphrodisiac¡­¡­Liu Fei Xu!


    No doubt, it was absolutely Liu Fei Xu, the most romantic character out of the Four Great Masters! How had he now turned into someone with an abscess-covered face? What exactly had happened?


    [a] ÃÅÉñ, translated literally above, is a deity that guards entrances to exorcise evil spirits and protect the home and its inhabitants. In this context, it¡¯s the same meaning as a third wheel.

 Chapter 104

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ʱ³½ | sichen |time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Ruan Zhu gaped at the horrendous man opposite her, confusion in her eyes: ¡°How did you become like this?¡±


    Liu Fei Xu grabbed his head and furrowed his brows in shame, causing the sores on his face to wrinkle into a lumpy mess. His voice came out almost like a wail: ¡°I also don¡¯t know what happened. Why was I infected with this strange illness?¡±


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, don¡¯t be lead by him.¡± Wang Jin Yan tightly clasped his wife¡¯s hand, revealing his disgust: ¡°Liu Fei Xu, you are lying. Having caught such a dirty and shameful disease, you do not repent, and instead, have the nerve to try to win sympathy?¡±


    A dirty and shameful disease! Ruan Zhu had thought he was suffering from some kind of skin infection. She knew Liu Fei Xu was outrageously debauched and had dallied with innumerable women from his activities as a flower thief and also from using the identity of Wan Zi Yu. Even the Crown Princess had become a member of his ¡®women-I¡¯ve-chased-and-conquered¡¯ army. After many years of hunting geese, he had finally been pecked by one in his eye¨Cwasn¡¯t this considered karma?


    ¡°I remember that this young madam had ordered some jewelry at our Ming Xiang Cui Yu before, correct? Aiya, it is rare for this honorable guest to visit; please, come on in.¡± Manager Yu¡¯s memory wasn¡¯t particularly good, but the accessories that Ruan Zhu had custom ordered that year had left a deep impression on him. He hastily called out a greeting after deducing¨Cfrom the lady¡¯s distinguished bearing and the four unordinary bodyguards accompanying her¨Cthat a wealthy customer had arrived.


    Ruan Zhu pulled on her hubby¡¯s hand and headed inside. There was a faint thought in her mind¨CMing Xiang Cui Yu was very quickly turning into a sinking ship and it was extremely likely this large clan that had been operating for several centuries had been implicated by Liu Fei Xu.


    Since the beginning and even til now, Liu Fei Xu had continued to have an affair with the Crown Princess. Having caught such a shameful disease, how well could the Crown Princess be faring? And how could the Crown Prince be any better?¡­¡­Liu Fei Xu had lost his mind regarding the circumstances and had also given up hope. However, if one were to only calm down and think about it, they would then clearly understand the implications. The person on the spot is baffled, the onlooker sees clear. It wasn¡¯t strange that she was able to see through the situation better than him.


    ¡°Our two esteemed guests, this way please. These past several years, our Ming Xiang Cui Yu has added quite a few new designs. Is the young madam designing something to order or purchasing something ready-made this time? I can give the madam a twenty percent discount.¡± Manager Yu enthusiastically peddled his wares at Ruan Zhu.


    Right at this time, Liu Fei Xu bolted inside the room and knelt down in front of Ruan Zhu, pleading: ¡°The Eldest Miss of the Ruan clan, I know you are the imperial consort of both His Highnesses the Prince of Qi and the Prince of Yong, who runs Hua Nong Ying Glass Workshop that is as wealthy as a nation, and also controls the largest intelligence network in this country. Even the Crown Prince is extremely apprehensive of all of you because of your skills and strength. Eldest Miss, I am asking you to please look at our history of being acquaintances and lend this small commoner some assistance with great compassion and mercy!¡±


    Liu Fei Xu prostrated himself with both hands and repeatedly kowtowed while his tears, mucus, and the pus from the sores on his destroyed face dribbled onto the ground.


    Ruan Zhu backed up two steps in disgust. Anger suddenly rising, she retorted: ¡°Please clean your mouth. When was I ever your acquaintance? Don¡¯t mistake another¡¯s intentions and fail to differentiate good from bad. Ma Ping, go over and slap his mouth for me.¡±


    As soon as he heard her words, the imperial bodyguard made to go over! But Wang Jin Yan had already become unable to restrain his anger and furiously shouted: ¡°Shameful thing!¡± When Ruan Zhu had been molested, he had wanted to kill Liu Fei Xu after discovering he was the perpetrator. But who knew the other¡¯s legs would be so fast in running towards the Crown Prince¡¯s official residence?


    He abruptly lifted his foot and aimed it under Liu Fei Xu¡¯s chin¡­¡­This kick held enormous strength and Liu Fei Xu flew several meters before finally dropping onto the ground, smacking against a counter in the process and causing the precious stones and accessories to shatter.


    Manager Yu was dumbstruck. It turned out this young madam was precisely the brilliant Princess Ruan who had become famous in recent years. Reportedly, she was skilled in writing verses and in matters of agriculture. Even the current emperor treated her favorably. He had truly been blind in slighting this honorable guest.


    It took Liu Fei Xu a very long time to crawl back up from the ground. Face black and purple, he spit out a large mouthful of blood mixed with teeth and panted for air like a weary stray dog that had stopped by the wayside.


    He kneeled in front of Ruan Zhu: ¡°Just base it on that time you stabbed me with a dagger. Can¡¯t you have pity for me once?¡±


    ¡°That time?¡± Ruan Zhu lightly gave a smile full of contempt: ¡°You even have the nerve to bring up that time. I¡¯ve always regretted not being able to send you to hell with one strike, but now I feel better. Seeing this appearance of yours really makes me feel refreshed.¡±


    Thankfully, she had been able to pump the brakes at the most critical point that year when he had drugged her with the aphrodisiac, otherwise this life would have been ruined.


    Liu Fei Xu screamed: ¡°You have so much money, what¡¯s wrong with giving out a bit to help others?¡±


    The former exceedingly handsome, insufferably arrogant Mister Peacock now lived without the least bit of dignity!


    Bemused, Ruan Zhu responded: ¡°Look at your appearance. Even dogs have more dignity than you. Is there any meaning in living like this? Rather than shaking your tail and begging for pity while suffering from the disease, wouldn¡¯t it be much better to completely solve the problem by using a rope and hang yourself?¡±


    Liu Fei Xu hurriedly shook his head: ¡°I don¡¯t want to die; I want to live. I¡¯m only twenty five and still have many years before me.¡±


    ¡°Regretting now? Why did you do it then? Zhu¡¯er, don¡¯t bother with this person.¡± With a slight snort, Wang Jing Yan pulled his wife towards the entrance of Ming Xiang Cui Yu.


    At the entrance, Ruan Zhu turned back around and with ridicule clear in her eyes, spoke the most ruthless words in a clear and pure voice: ¡°But you have no option but to die, and it will also be an extremely wretched death. Your family will also be implicated because of you.¡±


    Not too long ago, news had arrived that said the Crown Princess still frequently grinded with Liu Fei Xu. She didn¡¯t believe the Crown Prince had avoided being indirectly infected. It was rather horrifying how feudal societies treated those who were guilty of their crimes. Now that the heir apparent of the dynasty had caught a sexually transmitted disease, even the imperial clan had been humiliated.


    It¡¯s said that saving a life is more meritorious than building a seven-floor pagoda, but to throw oneself into a bad predicament just to save someone that had nothing to do with her¨CAfter some self-reflection, she concluded she wasn¡¯t that noble.


    If the Crown Prince had truly been infected by the disease, there was still some good out of it. It would touch on the majesty of the imperial clan so at that time, the Son of Heaven would be furious. For the culprit to be able to live¨Ceven if she was beaten to death, she wouldn¡¯t believe it.


    Liu Fei Xu stood there blankly and seemed to have suddenly recalled something as infinite panic set in his eyes. His entire person started trembling as if he was a pan being shook for gold.


    Shock was all over Manager Yu¡¯s face. As he thought about the influential people the Young Boss had come into contact with, his face instantly became ashen and he hollered in panic: ¡°I quit being manager. I want to go home, I am going home¡­¡­¡± While yelling this, he continued to retreat until he had reached the door and then ran out like he had lost his mind.


    This timid manager was completely petrified and no longer even wanted the money he had painstakingly earned.


    ¡°Jing Yan, let¡¯s go home! Ai, it was a mistake to come outside and shop today.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s original excitement for going shopping had completely disappeared. Signaling a bodyguard to call for a carriage, she rode it back to Guan Ju Villa.


    ¡°Jing Yan, do you think it¡¯s possible the Crown Prince had been infected?¡± Ruan Zhu stared outside the window at the Ming Xiang Cui Yu that was gradually growing further away. If the Crown Prince was truly at that status, could there possibly be anything good left for him? Gossip was a fearful thing. Even if by luck he were to survive, it was very likely his position as the heir apparent had come to an end.


    ¡°Does that still need to be asked? It¡¯s clear just by looking at Liu Fei Xu¡¯s expression.¡± Wang Jing Yan didn¡¯t care. Even if the Crown Prince died, it had nothing to do with him. Although he had been born into an official¡¯s family, he had grown up deep in the mountains and the concept of patriotism was far from his mind.


    ¡°What a pity for Ming Xiang Cui Yu¡¯s centuries-old reputation. Before, I had wanted to open an identical jewelry store and had even wanted to transfer his family¡¯s shop into my ownership. Then afterwards, I somehow started farming and after going through that large drought that caused so many to die, I just really wanted to allow everyone to be able to eat their fill.¡±


    ¡°You think too much. Whether or not the commoners are able to eat enough is something that only the Emperor can do. We can only try to live our days well.¡± Wang Jing Yan patted his wife¡¯s shoulder, laughing: ¡°Although I had said that, the Department of Agriculture will of course throw in one hundred percent of our energy because that is your heart¡¯s work.¡±


    Ruan Zhu also laughed. As early as the Department of Agriculture had been handed over to him, a farming institute had been established that provided free tuition for children of peasants who normally would not be able to afford to go to school. The wealthy felt it was beneath them for their children to become farmers, and the relaxed conditions for entering the school was to attract the poor.


    ¡°It¡¯s good as long as you understand.¡± Ruan Zhu gave her husband a displeased glance and rose to sit in his lap, saying as she wrapped her arms around his neck: ¡°Lord Husband, since you¡¯ve done well, I¡¯ll give you a kiss. Do you want it?¡±


    ¡°Only a fool wouldn¡¯t want it.¡± Wang Jing Yan¡¯s face leisurely brightened. A smile overflowing in his eyes, he leaned down and kissed the beautiful woman in his embrace.


    The husband and wife continued to kiss for a while. When she felt his breathing had become rushed as if he could no longer bear it, she softly soothed him: ¡°Tonight is still yours. Endure it a little longer. Once we return, I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    It was like Wang Jing Yan hadn¡¯t heard her as he continued to kiss her and also pushed his hands into her clothes¡­¡­Because it had been a long time since she¡¯d breastfed her children, her breasts had become swollen and painful. With one single touch from him, milk immediately flowed out.


    Wang Jing Yan¡¯s eyes suddenly blazed. His left hand covered a breast as his mouth took one of her tender buds¡­¡­The warm liquid flowed into his mouth and it was unexpectedly incomparably sweet. Losing his mind, he swallowed down large gulp after gulp.


    These men all liked to have her¡­¡­This was also good. Being sucked like this by him no longer made her feel as bloated and sore as before. She hugged the head on top of her chest, letting him have his fill.


    Exiting the city, they arrived at Guan Ju Villa.


    Zhi Xi and the two elder twins weren¡¯t home. It was only after asking around that she discovered Zong Zhi had led them outside to play. As for Min Zhi, he hadn¡¯t yet returned from Hong Lu Office.


    ¡°Perhaps they went to ride horses again.¡± Jing Yan laughed as he shook his head: ¡°The two boys are very wild and it would be good if Bo Ya doesn¡¯t learn that from her older brothers.¡±


    ¡°I think girls also need to learn something. Learning how to ride is a good thing. If it was possible, I¡¯d also want to learn.¡± The corner of Ruan Zhu¡¯s mouth was slightly raised and envy leaked from her eyes. Unfortunately, because she had been bitten by a dog once in her childhood, she now felt timid whenever she saw any large animal.


    ¡°If you want to learn, I can teach you.¡±


    ¡°All right, but on the condition that you must hold me when we¡¯re on the horse.¡±


    ¡°With pleasure.¡± Wang Jing Yan smiled, his jade-like pupils brimming with love.


    ¡°Jing Yan.¡± Ruan Zhu thought for a moment: ¡°Don¡¯t buy the present for Father-in-law outside; just pick something from the storage room. Something that¡¯s from outside may not necessarily be better than what¡¯s at home. That¡¯s decided then. Go back and rest for a while; I just so happen want to look at Bo Zhao and Yu Ze.¡±


    ¡°All right. Wait for me tonight in Yi Zhu Cottage. It¡¯s hard work to restrain myself.¡± Thinking of his sneaky actions in the carriage, his heart felt ticklish and his mood became tumultuous again.


    ¡°I got it.¡± Ruan Zhu quietly responded and waved her hand at her husband.


    She saw Xing Yun and Liu Shui right when she left, which caused her to remember her sister was pregnant. Ruan Zhu called them over to have the kitchen prepare some supplemental foods for Ruan Yu and also proceeded to list out the dishes that must be avoided as well as remind them to properly attend to her sister to prevent anything tragic from happening.


    Having finished with her commands, she then turned around and strolled through a promenade to arrive at the courtyard next to Yi Zhu Cottage.


    As soon as she entered the bedroom, the two wet nurses immediately stood up to give their greetings upon seeing the mistress of the house had entered.


    Ruan Zhu allowed them to rise and saw the two twins sleeping soundly in their cribs. She gave a content smile. With the exception of eating, the only thing these two babies that were less than two months old knew how to do was sleep.


    Returning to Yi Zhu Cottage, she had nothing to do so practiced some yoga atop her bed. She became a bit hungry after exercising but because it was not yet time for the evening meal, she called for servants to arrange some delicacies at Shui Xie Ark as well as ledger books so she could look over the accounts while snacking.


    The view from Shui Xie Ark was spectacular. Facing an entire pond full of rippling blue waves that flowed under a small bridge with wisps of the lotuses¡¯ sweet scent floating over on the gentle breeze¡­¡­Any and all who came here would become refreshed and invigorated. Not even half a sichen later, she had completely organized a pile of ledgers.


    ¡°Wife, I¡¯ve been looking for you everywhere.¡± Min Zhi¡¯s voice came over from the long bridge walkway, and his tall and robust figure could be seen walking over with a valiant air.


    ¡°You¡¯ve returned.¡± Ruan Zhu smiled and rose from the padded cushion to stretch.


    ¡°I¡¯ve just returned yet didn¡¯t see you, causing this heart of mine to always be anxious.¡± Min Zhi stepped over and pulled his wife into his arms, only letting go after a very long kiss.


    Ruan Zhu contained her anger: ¡°Are you saying I need to wait at the entrance to welcome you home?¡±


    ¡°If my Zhu¡¯er insists on waiting outside to greet me every day, of course it¡¯ll be the best. It will be exactly what this husband is looking for.¡± Min Zhi gave an easy smile, eyes brimming with love towards his wife: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, I heard you came across that disgraceful Liu Fei Xu today?¡±


    Ruan Zhu recalled the unpleasantness at Ming Xiang Cui Yu and silently nodded.


    ¡°Hoho¡­¡­That guy¡¯s done for?¡± Min Zhi sinisterly smiled. Hearing his wife¡¯s en of confirmation, the smile on his face became even brighter. He sat cross-legged on a soft cushion on the floor and pulled his wife onto his lap.

 Chapter 105

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er |(lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Ruan Zhu thought about her encounter with Liu Fei Xu. As a matter of fact, she felt a little regretful. The ill will she currently held towards him wasn¡¯t that strong, perhaps because every woman had a tendency of being fond of attractive men. When all was said and done, that man had previously been incomparably handsome and adored by countless women. She studied the smile on her husband¡¯s face, not quite understanding: ¡°Liu Fei Xu is done for and his life may soon follow. Seeing how you¡¯re so pleased, does this have anything to do with you?¡±


    It should be extremely difficult in this age to cure a sexually transmitted disease, right? During the final years of the Qing dynasty, there had been an emperor who kicked the bucket after he had visited a low-grade brothel and been infected with a lecherous disease.


    ¡°How could there not have anything to do with me? After all, this drama was completely directed by yours truly. That moronic man surnamed Liu would let his pants fall as soon as he sees a beautiful woman so it serves him right to be doomed.¡± Ruan Zhu had imperceptibly influenced all of the people at her side, and Min Zhi unconsciously imitated his wife¡¯s manner of speaking.


    ¡°What did you direct?¡± Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t understand and blankly stared at him: ¡°You didn¡¯t place an unclean woman by Liu Fei Xu¡¯s side, did you?¡±


    ¡°My wife seems to not be stupid to need only a little hint. It¡¯s very strange¨Cwhy do they all say your brain seems to be missing something?¡±


    ¡°Hurry up and answer the question.¡± Ruan Zhu pushed her hand into his clothes to tickle his underarm, but it seemed Min Zhi was naturally not ticklish as he didn¡¯t mind even after she had kept at it for a while. She gloomily gave up.


    ¡°I located a pretty woman who had the illness and gave her a sum of money to wreck Liu Fei Xu. I also promised to give her another payment if she was successful.¡±


    ¡°Did you really give it to her after she succeeded?¡± Ruan Zhu had her doubts.


    ¡°I truly gave it.¡± Min Zhi took in his wife¡¯s disbelief and hurried to add: ¡°I swear it. I am not one who goes back on my words and honoring promises is how I conduct myself as a person.¡±


    ¡°Lord Husband, I didn¡¯t say that you aren¡¯t trustworthy. I¡¯m just afraid that even if the woman received the money, she would have no breath with which to spend it.¡± In the past, he had eliminated Zhao Hai and the jailer in Shun Tian Hall in order to protect a secret. It¡¯d be a wonder if he had agreed to let the woman live this time.


    ¡°Wife, you¡¯re so smart. I indeed gave her the money, but whether she¡¯ll live to be able to spend it is something that doesn¡¯t concern me. I merely believe that only the dead can guard a secret forever.¡± How could he have possibly left behind such a large trail? Having suffered so much before, how could he not have learned from his setbacks?


    ¡°You treacherous man.¡±


    ¡°I am only treacherous because of you and our family. There is no benefit to us if the Crown Prince lives. We can see that Father-Emperor is becoming older. If he transfers his position to the Crown Prince, our family can be considered completely done for.¡±


    ¡°But if by chance the Crown Prince was to be discarded, then who should take up the mantle?¡±


    ¡°Whoever wants to receive the mantle can go receive it. As long as it¡¯s not ol¡¯ Second, it¡¯s fine.¡± The Crown Prince was the second oldest among the many brothers. Min Zhi didn¡¯t have any respect towards him which is why he addressed him as such.


    ¡°Min Zhi, do you wish to sit in the Dragon Throne in the Gold Palace?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a reason why I returned late from Hong Lu Office. You don¡¯t want to ask the reason?¡± Min Zhi¡¯s eyebrows twitched, not even replying to his wife¡¯s question.


    ¡°You really do seem to have returned rather late tonight. Which country¡¯s envoy came to our Tian Chu this time?¡± She remembered he hadn¡¯t yet eaten. Picking up a bowl of floating fern cold noodles, she used chopsticks to feed him.


    Floating fern cold noodles was an extremely aromatic dish. The juice from floating ferns was used to knead the dough and Chinese perch, bass, and shrimp were used as ¡®toppings¡¯ to create a beautiful and distinctive flavor. Du Fu previously had written a poem in praise: A cold palace hall a thousand miles away; open up a cold jade vial. The sovereign king revels in the cool evening; flavor demands pause til the set while.[a]


    ¡°Today, Nan Ling¡¯s Prime Minister Sima came to our Tian Chu with a group of retainers to have an audience with the Emperor, and Father-Emperor instructed for me to receive them. I didn¡¯t feel like paying attention to them and directly sent them to the post station with the intention of leaving but Prime Minister Sima loves to chatter away and prattled at me the entire time.¡±


    Min Zhi grabbed the chopsticks from her and sent a few bites of the noodles into his wife¡¯s mouth¡­¡­She opened her mouth to accept the food, but who would¡¯ve thought he would then push his head forward and plant his lips on hers¨Call so she could feed him directly, mouth-to-mouth.


    ¡°Prime Minister Sima¨Che was so idle as to be a pain the ass?¡± She was never crude when together with refined men like Yun Shi Yi and Zong Zhi, but when with Min Zhi¡­¡­haha, she seems to be more open.


    ¡°Ever since the Red Eyebrow Army suffered defeat after defeat, the road that connected Tian Chu with Nan Ling that had been blocked for several years had finally cleared so it¡¯s not strange at all that the envoys of Nan Ling would ask to have an audience with the Emperor. But the odd part is that the Prime Minister himself came. Zhu¡¯er, think about how important a Prime Minister is. That is one who has reached the highest official position and doesn¡¯t rashly leave the country. Guess what important matter he came to Tian Chu for.¡±


    ¡°Could it be that Prime Minister Sima¡¯s position in Nan Ling isn¡¯t secure so he fled to our Tian Chu to seek asylum?¡±


    Min Zhi lifted a crystal prawn dumpling from the table and placed it in his wife¡¯s mouth. Waiting for her to take it, he then leaned his head forward again, demanding the food back. Eating the food that had been moistened with her saliva tasted particularly sweet. ¡°Prime Minister Sima invited me to return to be the Duke.¡±


    ¡°Be the Duke?¡± Ruan Zhu slowly repeated the words before suddenly becoming alarmed. Grabbing his shoulder, amazement in her eyes: ¡°They want to invite you back to Nan Ling. But why? I vaguely remember the heir of Nan Ling is called Wang Kun and he¡¯s the bastard son of the Duchess of Nan Ling and one of her concubines.¡±


    The Duke of Nan Ling was the same as the current emperor of Tian Chu in that they both did not have biological offspring; instead, all of the children at their knees were born from their respective wives and her various concubines. But where the Duke was even more pitiful was that none of his bastard sons were of the royal blood which meant none of them had the right to inherit his title. Thus, Min Zhi was adopted at a young age and became the orthodox heir. When the old Duke became seriously ill, the palace became chaotic and the Duchess collaborated with Wang Kun to launch a rebellion. Xuanyuan Min Zhi took advantage of the confusion to run and was able to flee to Tian Chu after a narrow escape.


    ¡°It¡¯s precisely Wang Kun, that idiot without any prospects. But in his process of wresting away the position of heir, he was killed the year before last by the other brothers. A few other bastard sons died with him. As the mother of all of those useless siblings, the old Duchess had worried herself to sickness because her sons were massacring each other, with death not too far off.¡± Min Zhi¡¯s face held a bitter smile while endless loathing filled his eyes: ¡°The current Nan Ling is a country without a leader, and its court is in turmoil with the bastard sons brawling to no end over that position. Prime Minister Sima finally couldn¡¯t stand it and traveled a long way to Tian Chu with the intention of bringing back someone who can lead and take charge of the whole situation.¡±


    ¡°Your meaning?¡± Ruan Zhu attentively watched her husband, a kind of expectation rippling in her eyes. She didn¡¯t like the idea of him becoming a duke that lead a country. She wanted him to stay in Tian Chu, to stay by her side. Bo Zhao and Yu Ze needed their father. All five of her children were her heart and soul. If he truly wanted to leave, she wouldn¡¯t allow him to take them with him.


    Min Zhi hugged his wife and leaned his stubbly jaw against her tender cheek. The movement immediately caused comforting swells to undulate from his heart. ¡°If it was the me that had yet to meet you, I would choose to follow them back to Nan Ling. But now I don¡¯t value that position. There is nothing in this world that can cause me to separate from you. How could I, Xuanyuan Min Zhi, be the kind of person who goes when one is beckoned and is stepped under someone¡¯s foot when not needed? Being Duke¡­¡­hmph! Others seek but fail to get it, well I don¡¯t desire it.¡±


    ¡°You really don¡¯t desire it? And, you¡¯re also unwilling to leave me and the children?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t desire it and also unwilling to leave you and the children.¡±


    ¡°What will you do when Prime Minister Sima comes to persuade you? He is your old friend and the two of you are fellow countrymen.¡±


    ¡°While I was in danger, old man Sima saw my plight and didn¡¯t lift his hand to save me. I¡¯m disinclined to pay him any attention.¡± He currently didn¡¯t feel as strongly as he did before towards fame and reputation. Only those who had experienced the roller coaster of life would understand that happiness was hard to come by.


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s anxious heart relaxed and a thread of a smile hung from her lips. But not speaking at all, she firmly pushed with both hands so that her husband fell on top of the soft cushions and then pounced¡­¡­Kissing that red mouth, the tip of her tongue explored the inside of his mouth to tease his tongue.


    Min Zhi kissed her for a very long time and finally let her go after detecting his wife was gasping for air. He lowly laughed: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, wanting to use a kiss to appease your lord is rather indulging in fantasy. I want more.¡±


    ¡°Then what do you want? Tonight is Jing Yan¡¯s and I can¡¯t do anything that doesn¡¯t conform to the rules.¡± Whether or not a large family was harmonious wasn¡¯t based on what the masters should do but rather on what the mistress did to achieve equilibrium among them. Madam Ruan had not been able to do that which is why she had lost.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want tonight¡­¡­¡± He whispered a sentence right next to her ear.


    Here? Ruan Zhu glanced at their surroundings. There was nothing near Shui Xie Ark to cover them¨Cnot even a shrub! She shook her head and grabbed some Seven Skills pastry to throw into her hubby¡¯s mouth. The tip of her finger lightly tapped his nose: ¡°It¡¯s broad daylight so be a little more well-behaved for me. No touching lest we give the passing servants a topic to gossip about.¡±


    Min Zhi swallowed the pastry and then closed his mouth around the delicate finger, barely mumbling: ¡°It¡¯s still Zhu¡¯er¡®s finger that¡¯s delicious. Much more tasty than a pastry.¡± Binding his arms around her, he turned them over so that he was pressing on her from above and taking in his wife¡¯s quiet and exquisite appearance: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, what happens if I want to touch?¡±


    Ruan Zhu could feel a hardness pressing against her lower half and lowered her voice: ¡°Min Zhi, why is your appetite still not satisfied? Didn¡¯t you already ask for it yesterday?¡± Last night, the four men had gotten together and thoroughly tossed her until the middle of the night. At the time, she had been so tired that her body felt extremely limp and painful but now that she was reflecting on it, her heart felt full from the sweetness of being tenderly loved by her husbands.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, I only want to do it with you one-on-one. Besides, wasn¡¯t your first time with Nuan Chun here?¡±


    He had actually peeped! Ruan Zhu was annoyed: ¡°That was among the lotuses so it doesn¡¯t count.¡±


    ¡°Let us also go among the lotuses.¡±


    The season had already entered the sixth lunar month and the lotuses had all completely opened. White that was pure white; pink that was a light pink; red that was a romantic red¨Cthe innumerable blooms stood tall within the jade pond while the faint breeze brushed by like a fluttering, light muslin.


    Min Zhi carried his wife into a small boat. He unhurriedly moved the oars, slowly sliding them into the lotuses.


    The lotus leaves were much taller than the water surface and they were as dense as a deep forest, spreading out in layers among layers, tightly encircling the two people in the center. Min Zhi first undressed his wife before removing his own clothes. In the afterglow of the setting sun, they carefully looked at each other¡¯s bodies.


    Min Zhi held his breath as he stared at his wife¡¯s beautiful and seductive **. Turning her around, he then held her tight¡­¡­He liked this position because he could use his body to completely envelop hers and he could also touch the places he was most fascinated with.


    He lowered his head to kiss her full earlobe. Both hands wrapping around her front to prop her prominent breasts, he slowly teased them, fingers pinching each bud and lightly pulling.


    ¡°Lighter¡­¡­it hurts¡­¡­¡± She cried out, but her voice was coquettish and more resembled one in pleasure.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er¡­¡­¡± He groaned her name.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­Lord Husband¡­¡­what do you want to say?¡±


    ¡°I want to eat you¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Ai¡­¡­then why haven¡¯t you kneeled¡­¡­¡±


    Min Zhi fell down on both knees before his wife. She slightly leaned, using her hands to support and push over her full and soft mounds¡­¡­His mouth opened and immediately closed around a bud, lips moving as he took in the taste of her body into his stomach.


    Her starry eyes were half-closed and both her hands were wrapped around his neck. Why did her husbands love to chase after her chest like a little child? But she liked them acting like that as every time it happened, a sort of maternal love rose up within her.


    With the exception of the two Yun brothers, her other four men all had lonely childhoods and had experienced innumerable bumps on their roads in life.


    She sensed from their emotions and knew from experience that they all longed to be pampered and spoiled by their mothers. If it could make them happy, she didn¡¯t mind acting as their joint ¡®mother.¡¯ Actually, her childhood was also a little tragic so at the same time that she doted on them, she also sort of considered them to be like a father or an older brother.


    She and her loved ones were actually all pitiful children who had suffered. But it was because they had experienced pain and hardship that they were more able to value the feeling of being cherished.


    She lowered her head to look at her husband that was still sucking milk. This healthy man, who always gave her an impression of being like a steep mountain summit, endured everything silently and was cunning, yet also treated her with enthusiasm and with the most possible care.


    Even if she had to pitch in a little bit of hard work to return his love, it was nothing. She only wanted him to be happy from it, and what¡¯s more, she didn¡¯t lose out at all. Every time her man demanded some love, he never forgot to satisfy her.


    Min Zhi had his fill of tasting his wife¡¯s upper half but still wasn¡¯t content. Spreading out their clothes on the boat, he carefully pushed her down so she was facing upwards and then lowered his head again to taste her bottom half.


    [a] Du Fu was previously mentioned and this poem is called »±Ò¶ÀäÌÔ Floating Fern Cold Noodles. I butchered the translation but I tried.

 Chapter 106

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    He loved his wife, loved her so crazily much. Using all of the passion in his heart, he kissed her chest and sucked in the honey inside her, resembling a just-born infant who clung to their benevolent mother with piety and worship.


    After a very long time, he lifted his head and carefully placed her down¡­¡­Pushing apart her two legs, he continued to kiss her, demanding for that sweet liquid inside her body.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­¡± Moans slipped from her mouth as the wet and warm sensation stimulated her nerves. Her sensitive little bead was being sucked by the man who then slightly nibbled. She gasped for air, eyes completely misted over¡­¡­Her back unconsciously arched and her hands grabbed his head to push him even deeper into her crotch¡­¡­


    When two rough fingers entered inside her, her entire body trembled from the sensation and softened¡­¡­She twisted and turned from both the suffering and the pleasure.


    She raised her head and the breeze blew a pink lotus before her eyes. The blossom flew upward like a dancing skirt with such a fresh and beautiful color!


    She reached out to hold the entire blossom and couldn¡¯t help but to bite down on a petal. The flower¡¯s nectar was very sweet¡­¡­At this moment, the movements of the fingers inside her became fiercer and the little bead was ruthlessly sucked. It was a torment that was incredibly hard to withstand and she was unable to resist sobbing tears out of being touched, out of delight, out of infinite joy.


    ¡°Ahh!¡­¡­¡± A never-ending emotion swept her entire body. She loudly screamed as her two hands indiscriminately moved. The delicate and pink lotus fell onto her chest while its nectar soaked its petals and her snowy skin.


    She laid motionless as if all of her strength had left but the teasing happening to her lower half had yet to stop. He continued to explore her depths¨Coccasionally poking at her walls¨Cprovoking a current to run through her. The feeling of floating high among the clouds hadn¡¯t yet dissipated and an additional current of excitement rushed through her, culminating in another wave of fantastical pleasure.


    But this time wasn¡¯t actually his finger and also wasn¡¯t his lips. This time, the man and woman were truly connected and it became something that married couples often did in places without others out of love and passion for each other. His manhood substituted for his digit and entered her body while she opened her legs the widest they¡¯d go and raised her butt extremely high to allow him to enter.


    His physique was astonishing and his energy seemed inexhaustible.


    Other men would become tired after doing it a few times and would then stop to rest, but the more he did it, the more energized and interested he would become. He was the largest among her six husbands and she was also very small, which caused her to always reach the pinnacle of craziness every time they did it. They had been together for over two years now, but to date, she still couldn¡¯t fully adapt to him.


    ¡°Min Zhi, you can¡¯t, it¡¯s at the end. Don¡¯t push anymore, it¡¯ll hurt¡­¡­¡± She begged, asking for him to indulge her.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, Wife, do you like this? I want you to sink into pleasure underneath me just like this¨Clive and die for me. Your appearance right now is truly breathtaking; I like the way you look when you go crazy because of me.¡±


    Min Zhi spoke as he pounded her, lowering his head to look at the delicate and pink, small entrance that was being propped to its widest point because of his member, allowing it to move in and out¡­¡­His vision blurred in a flash. Propping his wife¡¯s snowy butt with his hands, he fiercely thrust, demanding a husband¡¯s right.


    It¡¯s unknown when the setting sun descended into rest and the bright moonlight spread out like silver muslin. The night was extremely quiet with only the cries of the man and woman among the lotuses that excited one¡¯s flesh.


    The feeling of doing it outside usually invited extreme stimulation and extreme vice. The husband and wife tossed and turned through numerous positions, climbing to the highest peaks over and over again.


    Normally, he could still moderate himself, but it was a breathtaking night with such a charming landscape around them¨Cthe jade mirror was like a natural mirror, the lotus leaves danced in the wind, and the lotus blossoms emitted an intoxicating fragrance.


    The woman underneath him was also that sort of beauty. He had become entirely captivated and only wanted to free himself as much as he wanted and possess all of her, maintaining this intimate position with her for all eternity.


    On the final time, Ruan Zhu kneeled on the boat, allowing him to enter her from behind¡­¡­She already didn¡¯t have the least bit of strength and supported herself against the planks. Her tiny hole took in her husband¡¯s enormous member, pandering to him with difficulty.


    His hands grabbed her buttocks and repeatedly smacked against it with the rhythm of his movements. He then pressed her closer, his spirited bulk at times pounding deep inside her and at times shallow. The small boat filled with the echoes of her moans, his delighted shouts, and the pa pa of his thrusts.


    The water was still with the occasional alarmed dragonfly passing by.


    Who knew how long had passed when he finally shook and gripped her waist, releasing the scalding liquid inside her before collapsing onto her shoulder and gasping for air with a happy expression on his face¡­¡­She was already so tired her entire body felt soft and sore, and she laid sprawled there, unable to move.


    Min Zhi had finished multiple times and finally achieved satisfaction. Tidying up his wife, he properly dressed the two of them and princess carried her back to Yi Zhu Cottage.


    The other three men were all waiting in the bedroom. Jing Yan¡¯s expression was particularly ugly and he snatched their wife from Min Zhi¡¯s arms to set her down on the large and soft bed.


    When she realized it was her bed, it was like she had discovered her beloved nest and sighed contently as she nestled atop the warm brocade.


    Zong Zhi stepped towards the bed. Taking in his wife¡¯s weak state, distress flowed from his eyes. Every time they made love, he was always worried she wouldn¡¯t be able to take it and never had the heart to do anything too demanding.


    He took off wife¡¯s clothes to examine her yet saw the tender skin was covered with purple hickeys starting from her neck and trailing all the way down to her feet. It was a ghastly sight. Her flower petals were also somewhat inflamed and a white liquid still spilled out. He accepted the towel that Nuan Chun offered him and wiped her clean, then took the ning xiang lu from Jing Yan¡¯s hands. Dabbing a bit of the ointment, he brushed it against her skin and inside her.


    The scorching pain inside her and on her body was extinguished by a slight chill¨Cmuch better! She pushed open her eyes and gave them a laugh: ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m much better now.¡± Min Zhi had been even more wild the first time they did it so this kind of situation had happened before. She really didn¡¯t know where he got the energy from.


    ¡°Don¡¯t try to be brave. Properly rest.¡± Jing Yan covered his wife with the brocade quilt.


    ¡°Jing Yan, you take care of Zhu¡¯er. We will rest in our rooms. Min Zhi, let us have a chat.¡±


    Zong Zhi grabbed his own brother¡¯s arm and headed outside¡­¡­On Min Zhi¡¯s face was a content smile and he turned back at the entrance to call towards his wife: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, rest well. I¡¯ll come see you tomorrow.¡±


    Zong Zhi became annoyed and added strength to his pull, flinging his brother out of Yi Zhu Cottage.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, do you wish to bathe? I can go prepare bath water?¡±


    ¡°No need, you may leave. I will look after Zhu¡¯er.¡± Jing Yan spoke on behalf of his wife and drove the other out. After tonight, his wife would become Nuan Chun¡¯s but of all people, that man hung around and refused to leave. He couldn¡¯t help but become gloomy because of that.


    ¡°Yes, this slave will do as ordered.¡± Nuan Chun¡¯s eyes lingered on his mistress and he very reluctantly left.


    Jing Yan got into bed and gave his wife a full-body massage. Faint inner strength emanated from his fingertips onto her acupuncture points. The warmth followed her blood vessels through her entire body, forcing her stagnated blood to move through the blockage.


    He was very skilled in massages and accurate in finding the acupuncture spots. Her blood quickly became unclogged and her body relaxed considerably.


    ¡°Jing Yan, you can request it once. It¡¯s not a bother to me.¡± She smiled at him as she said this, her right hand stretching towards the crotch of his trousers¡­¡­Yet he pushed it away: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, you should properly sleep. I won¡¯t touch you.¡± He laid down next to her and lovingly enclosed his slender arms around her, soothingly caressing her back.


    She was grateful for his consideration and leaned against his chest. Extending her hand into his trousers, she gripped the source of his heat, slowly stroking back and forth¡­¡­She sensed a coolness from his body which was the remnants of the bath he had just taken.


    Positioning herself to kneel before his crotch, she tore off his trousers and lowered her head, opening up her small and red mouth¡­¡­


    His entire body ignited and he gasped with the suddenness. Unable to resist, his hands clutched the two plump mounds on her chest that steadily shook. It didn¡¯t take long for all the passion in his limbs and bones to stir like a turbulent flood that found release.


    Wang Jing Yan panted for air. That was one kind of extreme emotion¨Cso delightful. He was unable to deal with anything else and wildly roared ¡°Ahh ahh¡­¡­¡±


    Tired, Ruan Zhu flopped on top of him. The man¡¯s tanned skin was incomparably sturdy and she rested her head on top of it, her hands lightly gliding against his chest back and forth, pinching and pulling at the two red beans¡­¡­His eyes ignited again but he pushed aside her restless hands: ¡°Be good, go to sleep. You need to rest.¡±


    Her husbands were actually all afraid she would over-exert herself so had set up a schedule where she would have three days of vacation every ten days. But as she could never fully satisfy their carnal desires, she usually used other methods to satiate them.


    Ruan Zhu snuggled in his wide embrace. Yawning, she sleepily murmured: ¡°Jing Yan, I¡¯ve decided to give you one of my three vacation days.¡±


    The truth was, she forgot her words upon waking the next morning.


    Being easy-going and considerate, Jing Yan was unwilling to deprive his wife of her vacation so the matter passed like that. But Min Zhi¡¯s crime needed punishment and after a unanimous vote by the other husbands, they sentenced Min Zhi to a month of abstinence.


    Min Zhi complained endlessly and completely regretted seeking momentary pleasure which caused him to be unable to share a bed with his wife for an entire month. He was so regretful his intestines turned black.


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    ¡°Hurry up and go outside the manor for a look! Didn¡¯t you say my father would be able to return by this morning? The entire day¡¯s gone by without a hint of his shadow and the boatmen and his retinue have all returned so where¡¯s my Pa?! Xiao Wu, Xiao Liu, what¡¯s the matter with the both of you? Useless things, how could you not even know your Master has gone missing?!¡±


    A scowl was on Ruan Zhu¡¯s face as she harshly berated two servants kneeling before her.


    She had headed to the harbor at daybreak to greet her father as soon as she had heard news of his return.


    A considerable amount of large ships that had traversed the distant seas had been docked in the pier with people busily unloading the cargo. Over ten thousand Arabic horses had been lead down from the vessels and then sent into the city, but there had been no sign of Ruan Zi Xu even after the ships had all been emptied.


    The servants that had followed along had been questioned and all said they didn¡¯t know. Xiao Wu and Xiao Liu had claimed everything was fine last night but Master had disappeared by the time they woke up this morning.


    How was it possible the Master of the ship had disappeared in plain sight?


    ¡°Idiots, idiots, neither of you should think of living well if something were to happen to my father. I¡¯ll tie you both up and sell you to a slave trader from Tu Bo to be slaves there.¡± Ruan Yu was three months pregnant and had been resting in her own courtyard, but upon hearing that her father was missing, she had rushed towards the main hall with her secondary husband Qi Shao Hua.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, Second Miss, this small one also does not know what happened?¡± Xiao Wu had knelt on the ground for so long his legs had become numb, but he did not dare to move in the slightest: ¡°This servant truly only headed back to this servant¡¯s cabin after seeing that Master had fallen asleep last night, but saw no trace of a person inside his room this morning.¡±


    ¡°Master does not seem to have been murdered. The items in the cabin are tidy, the furniture look to not have been touched at all, and there is also not a drop of blood. The door and windows are intact, and this small one suspects Master had some business to conduct and stealthily disembarked in the middle of the night.¡± Xiao Liu voiced his analysis.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me my father was kidnapped by bandits?¡± Ruan Yu was completely bewildered and her nervous face paled.


    Qi Shao Hua drew his wife over to calm her: ¡°That won¡¯t happen. Yu¡¯er, there is no one who has the courage to abduct esteemed Father-in-law and he may return in a little while. Don¡¯t worry Yu¡¯er. Your health is important so quickly return to your courtyard with me.¡± The child in her belly was his. He was particularly excited and moved because it was his first time being a father so would run over whenever he was free to look after his wife.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Yu¡¯er, you should return! Older Sister will send someone over to you when news come. Shao Hua, escort her back to her room.¡±


    But Ruan Yu refused to move and hugged her sister, crying: ¡°The two people I am closest to in this life is Papa and you, but what has happened to him? He left for so many years yet has disappeared upon his return home.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps because Papa has just returned, he is in high spirits and went to find some old friends.¡± Ruan Zhu was afraid this would impact her sister¡¯s unborn child and gave Qi Shao Hua a meaningful glance.


    After receiving her signal, Qi Shao Hua picked his wife up in a princess carry and left the main hall to return to their courtyard.


    Ruan Zhu felt a little comforted after seeing there were good feelings between them. Her younger sister¡¯s crush towards Shen Zhong Yun had finally faded and she was now wholeheartedly focusing on being a good wife and future mother.


    Nuan Chun carried over a food box and arranged the dishes on the table: ¡°Eldest Miss, please eat something first as this one did not see you breaking your fast this morning. If you do not eat now, your health will be in danger.¡±


    ¡°Ai, boy, you are really long-winded.¡± Grumbling at Nuan Chun, Ruan Zhu then faced Xiao Wu and Xiao Liu: ¡°Both of you may rise. Go bathe, change, and then head to the kitchen for a meal. Why don¡¯t you go take care of that, Xing Yun. Liu Shui, instruct the kitchen¡¯s Auntie Li to prepare some good dishes.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu had brought quite a few people with him on his return but they had all been shown towards the Ruan residence by Master and Madam Yun. Xiao Wu and Xiao Liu had been detained by the two sisters for questioning.


    Xing Yun and Liu Shui responded in agreement and led Xiao Wu and Xiao Liu out.


    Not long after, a servant came in to report Madam Yun had arrived at Guan Ju Villa.


    Ruan Zhu had just sat down and eaten a few bites of rice. Upon hearing the news, she put down her chopsticks and pinched the edge of her skirt to go out and greet her guest. She currently had a noble identity and normally would not have to do this, but not only was Madam Yun her biological aunt, she was also Yun Shi Yi¡¯s mother.


    She loved Yun Shi Yi and also respected his family members.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er greets Mother.¡±


    When Ruan Zhu arrived at the reception pavilion, Madam Yun had also just so happened to enter. She bent her waist in greeting and Madam Yun hurried to help up her daughter-in-law: ¡°This child. I have already said so many times there is no need for such courtesy. Why do you not listen?¡±


    ¡°You are my paternal aunt and furthermore, also my mother-in-law. On this earth, which daughter-in-law does not pay respects to her mother-in-law?¡± Ruan Zhu smiled as she invited the other to the drawing room and presented her with a cup of tea.


    Her actions truly moved Madam Yun, who spoke as she sipped from her cup: ¡°You are a good child. Ai, Zhu¡¯er, people are so good at angering others to death. Your third brother Wu Bin¨Cwhich is our family¡¯s third¨Cai, that child¡¯s eye is set high. He was sent to Wang Yue Teahouse several years ago to act as manager and became acquainted with a wealthy miss not long after. The two gradually became close and later they discussed marriage with him marrying into her clan and even changing his clan name. Because of this matter, your Second Father Wu went ballistic. They say that raising a son is to carry on one¡¯s ancestral line but now that he is entering another clan¡¯s ancestry ledger, this son of mine can be regarded as having been raised in vain.¡±


    Madam Yun wasn¡¯t very old¨Cat most forty¨Cbut the problem of the majority of women was that they loved to gossip. She would bring up meaningless chatter to thoroughly blather about while sighing with emotion. Each time Ruan Zhu met with her, her ears were bound to suffer.


    She naturally knew of Wu Bin. The first time she visited the Yun manor to visit her in-laws, Wu Bin had set himself against Yun Shi Yi and made his hostilities known, both implicitly and explicitly. She had a very bad impression of the man but actually felt no worry from him leaving the Yun clan. At the very least, in regards to Zhi Xi who was set to inherit the Yun clan¡¯s line of businesses, she was very satisfied with the loss of this snobbish and sly man who would otherwise have lingered around her son.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, you do not know this but I had two boys with your Second Father Wu. The younger one fell into a lake on the west of the manor and drowned at four years old. I had counted on Wu Bin to continue the Wu clan¡¯s lineage, the heartless creature.¡±


    ¡°Mother, Wu Bin isn¡¯t thoughtful so you should allow him to leave. In any case, he is no longer part of our Yun clan so don¡¯t fret yourself with what and who he loves. At the end, it is Mother and Second Father Wu who are upset and that isn¡¯t worth it. If Second Father Wu is worried about not having anyone to continue his family line, he can adopt someone from the Wu clan.¡±


    ¡°We can only do this.¡± Madam Yun closed the conversation and looked side to side: ¡°Right, where is Zhi Xi?¡±


    ¡°Zong Zhi and Min Zhi took him to the imperial palace, saying they would enter the palace to ask about news regarding Father.¡± Ruan Zhu thought it was very strange. Ruan Zi Xu had disappeared on a ship so why did they need to enter the palace to ask the emperor? Was it possible Ruan Zi Xu had gone to find the emperor in the middle of the night to chat about family and daily life?


    Why had the situation become so weird?


    ¡°Is there still no news of your father?¡± Madam Yun became anxious. Ruan Zi Xu was her biological brother and the two siblings had always gotten along well. Her heart had become a mess after hearing her older brother was missing.


    The author has something to say: I¡¯ve edited it so many times and don¡¯t know if it finally meets the standard this time. Admin, please be lenient and don¡¯t lock it again! If I¡¯m warned again, I guess I¡¯ll just revise it again! This should be fine

 Chapter 107

    Ruan Zhu was also deeply worried and sick at heart. Calling over some eunuchs to remove the food on the table and exchange them for some fresh and gourmet ones, she invited Madam Yun to take a seat. Nuan Chun stood by her side in attendance and used a small plate to select delicious and inviting dishes and desserts and placed it before them.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, there¡¯s no need for this. You¡¯re probably also hungry since it¡¯s this late so take some to eat in the heated room!¡±


    If it was like normal, Ruan Zhu could let him take a seat so they could have the meal together, but this was not possible with a guest present as it would seem she didn¡¯t respect the guest.


    Her husbands all had their own careers and there was usually only Nuan Chun who devotedly stayed by her side. The feelings she felt towards him naturally didn¡¯t need to be said.


    ¡°Cough cough, Nuan Chun, since your mistress has allowed you to eat, then just do as you were instructed. In any case, I am not an outsider so why have any qualms, hmm?¡± Madam Yun really liked this daughter-in-law of hers that also had the status of an imperial consort. Since the birth of a princess in the Yun clan, which relative¨Cclose and distant¨Cdidn¡¯t look upon them with more esteem? She often secretly harped to Master Yun about how the Yun clan that had been commoner-born for so many generations was now even the emperor¡¯s relatives.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, I am not hungry and will wait until you have finished to eat in the kitchen.¡± Today was not the same as other days. Master was returning and Eldest Miss¡¯s mother-in-law was also present; he could not cause any inconveniences.


    ¡°I really can¡¯t do anything about you. You¡¯re truly sweet and devoted, hmm?¡± Ruan Zhu spoke, seemingly out of helplessness and praise.


    ¡°Now that your father has returned home after a long journey, I wonder if he had come across Shi Yi while traveling?¡± Madam Yun ate two bites of rice but her mood turned sour upon thinking of Ruan Zi Xu, and she started to grumble: ¡°It has also been two years since Shi Yi, that child, left home and even now, there has not been a single letter. Shi Wei also headed to the battlefield to fight against the rebels over three years ago. I do not even know how the two brothers are now after having left our home for so long. I have heard there are many bandits on the seas who specialize in looting merchant ships. It would be best if nothing happens.¡±


    After speaking for a spell, Madam Yun suddenly lost her appetite, tears silently dripping.


    Ruan Zhu put down her chopsticks. It was like her stomach had been plugged with an enormous stone. Every night, when all was silent and slumbering, that was the time when she felt especially melancholy. The swan goose flies far but not past the light; the ichthyosaur dives through water but remains stationary.


    The swan goose who sends letters is capable of flying far away, but it cannot follow the moonlight towards the one it longs for. The ichthyosaur can dive far into the ocean but it cannot swim to be next to their beloved¡¯s side and could only stir up ripples upon the water¡¯s surface.


    The two Yun brothers were the ones who had continuously been at her side ever since she had first transmigrated into this period. Shi Yi¡¯s affection, Shi Yi¡¯s warmth, Shi Yi¡¯s careful attentiveness, Shi Yi¡¯s steady earnestness like a lofty mountain¡­¡­they always caused her imagination to roam and after waking up from her midnight dreams, she could never help but to become disappointed and frustrated as if she had lost something.


    ¡°Mother doesn¡¯t need to worry. Eldest Cousin¡¯s fleet is being protected by the navy so nothing will happen.¡± She could only console Madam Yun this way.


    The year Shi Yi left, Zong Zhi had provided the accompanying navy with a new type of catapult, gunpowder, and five hundred large crossbows that could fire off three hundred arrows at once. The navy¡¯s arms and personnel had all been carefully selected. Who knew how much stronger they were compared to neighboring countries, much less a few pirates in the seas.


    In terms of safety, Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t need to worry about her husband staying safe. Perhaps a few accidents may crop up because of the stormy sea, but the fleet was made up of several dozen ships so there was always the strong possibility of assistance and rescue.


    Madam Yun was still shedding tears: ¡°Since he was born, Shi Yi has always been one who causes no trouble and is very capable. Shi Wei is sincere and honest and can be a little rash at times. But they are my firstborn children, and I have even higher expectations of them than of the other children.¡±


    Right as she said that, Xing Yun dashed inside, beaming as he shouted: ¡°He¡¯s returned, niang niang, he¡¯s returned! He¡¯s currently in the front courtyard and rushing here, but this small one ran over first to give niang niang the good news.¡±


    ¡°Father¡¯s back!¡± Ruan Zhu was stunned. She hadn¡¯t expected Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s return to be this sudden. Springing up in joy like a little girl, she blurted: ¡°Xing Yun, quickly go report this to the Second Miss. Don¡¯t let her heart continue to be taut with worry. Oh right, also carry Yu Ze over to let Papa also share in the joy.¡±


    She had not forgotten that Ruan Zi Xu had always been worried about the heir of the Ruan clan so on the day she had given birth to the twins, she didn¡¯t wait for the emperor to bestow names. She went ahead and gave the second son the Ruan clan¡¯s surname, planning on giving him a temporary name and then have Ruan Zi Xu settle on another once he returned.


    ¡°Eldest brother is back.¡± Madam Yun cried out and headed outside with a lift of her legs. The forty-year-old woman was still very nimble and exited the hall in an instant.


    ¡°Niang niang, this small one has not yet said the one that returned was Master Yun, ah!¡± Stunned, Xing Yun scratched his head, but Ruan Zhu had already followed Madam Yun out of the hall, not hearing his words at all.


    The mother-in-law and daughter-in-law pair passed through the reception pavilion and ran into a person on the promenade.


    That individual was a young and full-bodied general with an imposing build, bronzed skin, sword-like eyebrows, lively and bright eyes, and sharp facial features. His entire being appeared majestic with a black brocade cloak draped across his shoulders that gave him an immense aura and extraordinary bearing. The four soldiers behind him were similarly muscular and followed him with stern and respectful expressions.


    As soon as Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes caught sight of the person, she couldn¡¯t help but to tremble all over. Eldest Cousin! She silently repeated that appellation. This face that didn¡¯t appear in her dreams¨Cfor it to suddenly appear before her was really inconceivable.


    The young general¡¯s eyes first lingered on Ruan Zhu before he then kneeled in front of Madam Yun and formally paid his respects: ¡°Esteemed Mother, this son Shi Wei has returned to see you.¡±


    Madam Yun strode over and supported her son up before suddenly bursting into tears and hitting her son¡¯s shoulders: ¡°You heartless thing. Upon leaving, you do so for so many years without returning and have caused Mother and Father¡¯s hearts to break with worry.¡±


    It was Shi Wei, not Shi Yi. The two brothers were twins with nearly identical appearances. She had unexpectedly mistook them and momentarily couldn¡¯t tell whether she felt joy, disappointment, sweetness or bitterness¡­¡­All sorts of emotions twisted in her heart!


    Lost in thought, Ruan Zhu forgot to walk over and stared blankly at the youthful general.


    ¡°Haha, haven¡¯t I returned now?¡± Yun Shi Wei goofily grinned but he swept a glance at his budding wife.


    ¡°You child, why did you not even send someone to deliver some news and instead returned home from out of nowhere?¡±


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t this given Mother a pleasant surprise?¡±


    ¡°You hothead! Already a general but still do things so impatiently. You deserve to be hit.¡±


    Madam Yun hammered her son again and pulled him into the main hall, nagging endlessly. Because her mother-in-law was present, it wasn¡¯t right for Ruan Zhu to butt in so she quietly steeped tea and poured it for the two people, regardless of his burning gaze. Finished with that, she then silently sat by the side, playing the role of an obedient and intelligent daughter-in-law.


    Madam Yun spoke of what had happened at home these past few years; spoke of how after Shi Yi had left, she herself had managed the stores; spoke of how Master Ruan had returned to Tian Chu but had disappeared. As a filial son, Yun Shi Wei continued to listen to his mother¡¯s chatter, though his face became more and more absent-minded while his eyes peeked, from time to time, at his wife that was sitting on the sofa.


    Madam Yun had long noticed her son¡¯s movements and lamented how once one had a daughter-in-law, the mother would be forgotten.


    But it was no good for her to become angry. First of all, she was unwilling to hurt her son¡¯s heart and secondly, it wouldn¡¯t be good to express it against her daughter-in-law.


    She would have previously dared to impose a mother-in-law¡¯s might before, but now, she didn¡¯t even dare to think of it. Just solely visiting Guan Ju Villa and seeing the two Princes made her heart tremble. Her daughter-in-law truly was skilled to receive concubines that were each more outstanding than the other. To ordinary people, there was very little discrepancy between the imperial Xuanyuan clan and the immortals and gods in the nine layers of Heaven.


    ¡°Aiya, look at how Ma monopolized you with our chat. Quickly go look at your wife!¡± Madam Yun patted his thigh and pushed her son up.


    Yun Shi Wei stopped in front of his wife. The thousands of words in his mouth turned into a fixed stare¡­¡­He abruptly picked her up and steadily headed towards Yi Zu Cottage, not caring at all that they were in the presence of his mother and the several soldiers he had brought with him.


    Although he hadn¡¯t returned in several years, Yun Shi Wei still knew the villa like the back of his hand. Passing through the long promenade, they wound around a flower wall and crossed a bridge. Underneath the bridge was a jade pond that rippled with waves from the wind.


    After crossing the bridge, they reached Yi Zhu Cottage. It was a building constructed among the trees and flowers with a blazing double phoenix and morning sun motif carved onto the entrance. With his right hand carrying his wife, Yun Shi Wei pushed open the door with his left to enter the hall and directly turned towards the bedroom on the left-hand side.


    He removed his shoes and then stepped onto the long, woolen carpet, walking towards the bed to place her on top of the brocade-covered large bed.


    Ruan Zhu raised her bright eyes towards her lover that had just returned from afar. Tears of endless joy blurred her vision: ¡°Second Cousin, welcome home.¡±


    ¡°Spouse, Zhu Zhu, I always thought of you in my dreams. Have you been doing well these past few years?¡± Yun Shi Wei¡¯s arms had never moved from their position around his wife and remained on her body to take in her beauty. He suddenly lowered his head to kiss her.


    Ruan Zhu held him close as she returned his kiss, using her enthusiasm and passion to celebrate her husband¡¯s long-awaited return. The previously immature youth now gave her a steady strength, like a kind of manly flavor.


    Yun Shi Wei continued to kiss his wife for a very long time, only releasing her lips when he noticed her chest kept moving up and down and she had difficulty breathing. He saw that her mouth had become swollen from their kiss but it only added to her alluring appeal. He chuckled. ¡°Spouse, I thought you would have forgotten me because we had been separated for too long.¡±


    ¡°You are my Lord, our family¡¯s Second, and also Zhi Xi¡¯s uncle and Second Concubine-Father. Look at how many titles you have. Even if I forget someone, I can¡¯t forget about you.¡±


    The words were playful, but Yun Shi Wei felt great after hearing them.


    He pushed his hand inside her collar to play with the soft mounds that he hadn¡¯t had the chance to touch for a long time, softly sighing. Milk dribbled out onto his rough fingers and he placed them into his mouth for a taste. His eyes couldn¡¯t help but to narrow: ¡°En, Zhu¡¯er still tastes as delicious as before.¡±


    Ruan Zhu understood. He most likely couldn¡¯t control his physical desire and normally, she would perform a wife¡¯s duties. But at this time, her mother-in-law was still in Guan Ju Villa and no one knew when her father would return. As the mistress of this residence, how could she duck into her bedroom in broad daylight with her husband to ooxx?


    The lapel of her flowy pink gauze top was pushed aside by a large hand, exposing two plump hills that were like trembling cotton balls. The two vermilion points were particularly captivating¡­¡­Yun Shi Wei¡¯s breath hitched and he pushed his head forward to suck on one of them.


    She shivered all over from the contact, both eyes fluttering shut: ¡°We can¡¯t.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei understood what his wife was thinking and pressed kiss after kiss on her chest for a good while before lifting his head and straightening her collar: ¡°Spouse, I¡¯ll let you go but you must properly accompany me tonight.¡±


    Ruan Zhu suddenly felt gratified. Second Cousin had truly matured, becoming steadier and knowing when to restrain himself. ¡°I will definitely make you happy.¡± She laughed, hooking both her arms around his neck.


    Her second cousin was just as sturdy as in the past and his chest was just as warm and just as firm.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, being able to be together with you is truly nice.¡±


    It was like Yun Shi Wei had received a precious treasure as he continued to hold his wife while strolling around the room. It was in the manner of holding a baby with one hand on top and one hand on bottom. After all of these years, he still didn¡¯t often use the princess carry to hold her.


    But Ruan Zhu very much enjoyed this position and wrapped her arms tightly around his neck.

 Chapter 108

    Glossary


    Àï | li |unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    ¶ù | er |(lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Ruan Zi Xu kneeled inside the imperial study. None of the palace eunuchs that passed through the room looked directly at him, and he secretly snuck a glance at the Emperor who was still reading memorials, his mind gloomy. Last night, he had still been asleep when several first-class imperial bodyguards had suddenly appeared and requested he disembark. They had used ¡®request,¡¯ but actually, there had been no room for discussion.


    What was this? Since they had already dragged him over, just say what the matter was, and if there was nothing, just quickly let him return home. Why give him the cold-shoulder? Did he want his life, ah! He had knelt for too long and could feel neither of his two legs.


    The Emperor put down the last memorial and raised his head to study the person kneeling in front of him before calling for an eunuch to pull the man over. Picking up the cup of fragrant tea on his imperial table for a sip, he stiffened his face: ¡°Ruan Zi Xu, do you know your crime?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu was lost for words. He had been gone for so many years, so if one said he had offended the Emperor, what was it in regards to?


    ¡°Responding to Your Majesty, this subject does not know which crime was committed and only knows that great contributions had been made. To travel thousands of li with painstaking effort and acquire innumerable good horses¨Cif Your Majesty has said this subject has sinned, this subject is afraid it can only be on the fact that this subject treats our Tian Chu too devotedly.¡±


    The Emperor slanted his eyes: ¡°It seems there is still anger in your heart, correct?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu huffed: ¡°This subject does not dare.¡± No one would feel well if they had been roused from sleep in the middle of the night and then made to kneel for an extremely long period of time.


    During these years on his travels, he had experienced quite a bit, gained extensive first-hand knowledge, and had met with many countries¡¯ influential officials and even their leaders. If he had been summoned by the Emperor before he had left on his voyage, he would have definitely have felt it from the bottom of his heart, but now, he only felt anger. Having just returned from several years of wandering the world, it was too sad that he hadn¡¯t even had the time to see his two precious daughters, ah!


    ¡°It is only that you do not dare to be angry. Your heart is very much provoked, correct?¡± The Emperor snorted and then observed the man kneeling beneath him. The more he inspected him, the more displeased he became. They all said females married out but were sons not also the same? Two of his own sons were not even willing to listen to him nowadays.


    The Emperor searched through the papers on his desk before throwing one over, indifferently stating: ¡°Sign this document and zhen will let you return.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu swept his eyes over the page. There were three clauses: 1, Change Ruan Yu Ze¡¯s name to Xuanyuan Yu Ze; 2, Have Yun Shi Yi withdraw from the position of principle husband and cede it to Xuanyuan Zong Zhi; 3, From this day forward, they must leave Guan Ju Villa and move the entire family into the Prince of Qi¡¯s princely residence inside the city.


    The more Ruan Zi Xu read, the more confused he became. Who was Ruan Yu Ze? Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¨Cjust from the clan name of Xuanyuan, could it be that he was of the imperial clan? But he only knew of one called Xuanyuan Min Zhi who had been injured by Ruan Ju while in Yu Zhou and had resided in their home for a spell.


    ¡°Carefully persuade your daughter when you return. Do not let her be stubborn. That is all, you may leave!¡± The Emperor drove him out.


    Ruan Zi Xu dragged his two numb legs out of the imperial study and then retrieved that piece of paper for another look. He still didn¡¯t understand and decided he would wait until he had returned to ask his oldest daughter.


    Zong Zhi only stepped out from behind the screen when he saw his father-in-law had left the imperial study and expressionlessly faced the emperor: ¡°Father-Emperor, this subject-son is very happy in the position as a concubine and is even more willing to continue to reside in Guan Ju Villa. This subject-son still requests you to withdraw your order.¡±


    The Emperor¡¯s face cooled: ¡°Because of a woman you no longer wish to have even the position of heir?


    Zong Zhi saw the Emperor¡¯s expression wasn¡¯t good but cupped his hands in a manner that was neither servile nor overbearing: ¡°This subject-son has eleven brothers that all surpass each other. This subject-son is aware this one is lacking in skills and cannot assume the heavy responsibility of being the heir apparent. Furthermore, the Crown Prince is still¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Zhen forbids you from mentioning that disgraceful, vulgar bastard.¡± The Emperor suddenly flew into a rage and threw a high-quality ink stone from his desk onto the floor. Pa¨Cthe jade ceramic ink stone split into two.


    The Crown Prince being infected with a shameless disease was already a public secret. As it involved the dignity of the imperial clan, no one dared to openly discuss the topic. But all of the influential clans and ministers of the imperial court clearly understood His Highness the Second Prince most certainly would lose his position as the Crown Prince.


    Zong Zhi saw that the Emperor was incensed and asked to withdraw as it would not be good to remain any longer. Exiting the imperial study, he saw Xiao Zhou Zi and Zhi Xi waiting by the door with the Empress by their side. ¡°Mother-Empress.¡± He gave a bow in greeting and then stooped over to pick up Zhi Xi.


    ¡°You are unhappy, Third Concubine-Father?¡± Zhi Xi very thoughtfully smoothed his wrinkled brows.


    Zong Zhi gave him a full smile. He had saw this child being born, saw this child grow up, taught him horseback riding and archery, and recently, also invited a prominent scholar from court to be his Master. The affection he felt towards Zhi Xi was no less than the bond he shared with his flesh and blood Bo Yu and Bo Ya.


    The Empress accompanied her son towards the palace entrance, speaking her thoughts.


    ¡°Your Father-Emperor is actually very concerned about the country of Jiang Shan that has no clear ruler in power. The nation cannot withstand the heavy burden if another Red Eyebrow Army were to revolt.¡±


    The Empress had previously highly valued the Crown Prince. But after discovering he had been affected with such a disgusting illness, as a mother, besides disgust, she was inevitably also filled with heartache. Imperial physicians were sent to the East Palace to combine their efforts and treat him, but the conclusion was¨Cit was already too late and there was no hope for a cure.


    It turns out, after the Crown Prince had started developing symptoms, he was afraid the information would leak, did not dare to make a public announcement, and always stealthily went to a commoner medicine hall. As a result, his treatment was delayed. But in this world, how could there be walls devoid of ears? The Empress was full of resentment when she found out and called for people to cane the Crown Princess, who was beyond hope and cure, to death. The members of court saw the development and one by one, withdrew from the Crown Princes¡¯s faction to stand with another group.


    ¡°Mother-Empress, this subject-son is not befitting of the position of heir. You should not forget the established rule of the imperial clan¨Cin order to ensure the imperial bloodline remains pure, the Empress¡¯s secondary husbands can only be chosen from within the imperial clan.¡±


    ¡°Then just have the ranks of the Yun brothers and Wang Jing Yan lowered to that of an escort. All of the children are commoners, without any qualifications whatsoever.¡± The Empress¡¯s voice was ice-cold, her eyes slightly threatening: ¡°An identical case has occurred before in Tian Chu¡¯s history. Although their titles and honor has been removed, they can be compensated with material things.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not. I cannot make it difficult for Zhu¡¯er.¡± Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes were insistent and firm. If he had to pick between the title of Emperor and his beloved woman, he would rather not have the throne.


    ¡°That is but the supreme position of Emperor with none above him. Have you lost your mind?¡± The Empress¡¯s anger was undeniable: ¡°Aijia not forcing Zhu¡¯er to divorce the Yun brothers is already conceding. What more do you want?¡±


    ¡°Third Concubine Father, Imperial Grandmother, don¡¯t be angry, Zhi Xi will recite Mother¡¯s new poem for you.¡± Every time Zhi Xi went out, a relative or a friend would always ask him to recite a poem and the small child thought the Empress would also like it. In order to put a smile on her face, he cleared his throat and then recited in a bright voice: ¡°Red lotus flowers wilting on the glossy autumn mat, I lightly remove my silk robe to enter a canoe. Who is sending a message among the fluffy clouds? Once the reply is sent, hung over the west is the full moon. Flowers naturally wither and water naturally flows, a kind of yearning with two points of useless woe. The emotion has no means of relief; unwrinkle the brows but in sorrow the heart drowns.¡±[a]


    Strong longing oozed out of the poem. Little Zhi Xi naturally wasn¡¯t aware of it, but Zong Zhi understood his wife¡¯s heart.


    The Empress paused, remaining silent for a very long time before finally sighing: ¡°It is not incorrect to say Zhu¡¯er is a good child. I used to hold a preconceived bias against her but have long come to see past that after everything that has occurred. My doing this is not targeted against her; it is truly in consideration of this country¡¯s future.¡±


    ¡°Mother-Empress, this subject-son will not sit in that chair, and as before, there will be others who will make an effort for that seat.¡±


    ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    Ruan Zi Xu exited the south gate and ran into Xuanyuan Min Zhi. He knew this person. That year when the palace of Nan Ling had undergone changes, the man had escaped and even resided at his home for a while. Afterwards, he had quietly left without even any notice. According to Lu Piao Xiang, he was a prince with an extraordinary identity.


    At this moment, he was still in the dark. Not only was Ming Zhi a prince, Lu Piao Xiang was also one.


    Xuanyuan Min Zhi was proud and aloof and did not take others into consideration. He didn¡¯t even show deference to his father-in-law. Without excessive chit chat, he directly sent Ruan Zi Xu into his carriage while he himself rode a horse, and the two returned to Guan Ju Villa, one in front and the other following behind.


    Not long after the two had returned, Zong Zhi also came back with Zhi Xi.


    As soon as Ruan Zhu heard her father had returned, she hastily straightened her appearance that Yun Shi Wei had messed up and searched for a stylish purple light skirt to change into before following her husband out of Yi Zhu Cottage and towards the main hall.


    Midway, they just so happened to run into Jing Yan, who had returned from the Ministry of Agriculture, and a little while later, came across Zong Zhi entering the residence from the main gates with Zhi Xi. Ruan Zhu reached over to take Zhi Xi from Zong Zhi¡¯s arms and the entire group headed towards the main hall. They hadn¡¯t yet reached the reception pavilion when sounds of laughter drifted over from the open doors.


    ¡°Pa, this is Ruan Yu Ze, our Ruan clan¡¯s child, your grandson, and also the lifeline to continue the Ruan clan that you had been hoping for all of these years. Eldest Sister said the name ¡®Yu Ze¡¯ is what we will temporarily call him and if Papa returns and finds it inappropriate, you can then give him one that you are satisfied with.¡±


    Ruan Yu lifted the three-month old infant from the wet nurse¡¯s arms. Qi Shao Hua was worried she would pull against her belly and the child within and rushed over to support his wife¡¯s arm.


    The heir of the Ruan clan! This happiness was no small matter for the Ruan clan¨Cthey finally had a successor who could continue the genealogy!


    Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s hands slightly trembled from excitement as he took his grandson and looked at that pink and dewy small face. Remaining silent for a very long time, the rims of his eyes became moist. ¡°Yu Ze¨Cthis name is good. The children of this generation of the Ruan clan will share the name ¡®Ze¡¯ so there is no need to change it. It sounds very nice.¡±


    Ruan Yu brought her several secondary husbands forward to perform the rites before her father and spoke of their individual clans and careers. Ruan Zhi Xu was pleased: ¡°Yu¡¯er is capable to even have the young masters of officials as your concubines. It would appear our Ruan clan is flourishing.¡±


    Ruan Yu smiled: ¡°Pa, you jest. How could I compare to Eldest Sister? She has caused two princes of the imperial clan to fall into her hands and gave birth to quite a few dolls. Pa, the child you are holding in your arms is one of them.¡±


    He only remembered Xuanyuan Min Zhi at this time. Could it be the Prince had developed good feelings for Ruan Zhu during the time he had stayed in the Ruan clan and did not mind the position of a secondary husband to accompany his eldest daughter for a lifetime?!


    Because of the relationship with his wife, Min Zhi cupped his hands in greeting towards his father-in-law and that could be regarded as performing the rites. Ruan Zi Xu rushed to return a hasty greeting in return because even if the other was his own son-in-law, he still came with an appellation of ¡®Sir.¡¯ How could he possible allow the other to be on ceremony with him?


    ¡°Does Papa still remember Brother-in-law Piao Xiang?¡± Ruan Yu giggled and saw her father blankly nod: ¡°Brother-in-law Piao Xiang is not your average person. He is the current Fifth Prince Xuanyuan Zong Zhi and Brother-in-law Min Zhi¡¯s biological brother.¡±


    But these two biological brothers were indeed amusing as their order had been thrown into disarray after entering the Ruan clan¨CThe younger brother had become the third husband while the older brother was the fourth.


    Ruan Zhu stood by the entrance while holding Zhi Xi. Seeing the lively atmosphere inside, she stole a look at Shi Wei and suddenly felt her emotions stirring. If only Shi Yi was also present, then the Ruan clan could be considered reunited.


    During the meal, four respectable men sat by Ruan Zhu¡¯s side. Two of them were princes, one was a son of the prime minister, and one was a famous young general who had just returned from the battlefield. Nuan Chun was not qualified to have a seat so he stood behind his mistress to wait upon her, happiness filling his entire face, seeming to take pleasure in his job.


    Ruan Zi Xu was still holding Yu Ze with a distracted expression. He had urgently headed north towards Lan Zhou the day after his ship had arrived in Wan Zhou. Along the way, there had been officials who had known of his outstanding deed to purchase horses for the imperial court, but knew nothing of his origin, much less of matters regarding his clan. When he had finally returned to Lan Zhou all dusty and travel-worn, he had then been invited into the imperial palace by the Emperor.


    He suddenly recalled a matter that was far from good. In the imperial study, the emperor had asked him to sign a document with three clauses¡­¡­He looked around at the harmonious family and decided to defy the imperial decree.


    Ruan Zhu observed her father who cut a lonely figure, her expression thoughtful. Was it time she welcomed Madam Ruan back?


    When the meal was over, it was already very late and the children had all been carried by their wetnurses back to their rooms to sleep. Ruan Zhu had already arranged Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s living arrangements a month prior and called for Xing Yun to show him the way.


    Because she had drank an extra two cups of Xifeng liquor, her feet were a little unsteady when she headed back towards Yi Zhu Cottage. ¡°Wife!¡± Zong Zhi was just about to steady her with his hand when Shi Wei picked her up and strode towards Yi Zhu Cottage. Zong Zhi thought for a moment and soon followed. He normally wasn¡¯t this meddlesome, but he had the faint inkling his wife had something she needed to get off her chest.


    Min Zhi and Jing Yan soon caught sight of them and also followed.


    Yun Shi Wei placed his wife on the bed while he himself headed towards the bathroom to bathe.


    Ruan Zhu rested on the bed while Nuan Chun removed her clothes and wiped her down with warm water. After he was done, her body felt soft and her mind extremely dizzy, like all the wine had rushed to her head. She burst out laughing: ¡°Nuan Chun, what are you being so diligent for? Don¡¯t tell me you want me?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Miss, you should accompany Second Master Yun tonight¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Hehe, you¡¯re trying to trick me again. Second Master Yun is still fighting the rebels ahead so are you saying you want me to go accompany him in the battlefield?¡± She grabbed at Nuan Chun¡¯s robes. Perhaps she had become familiar with removing a man¡¯s clothes from doing it so often as Nuan Chun became stark naked a mere moments later. ¡°Nuan Chun, yours isn¡¯t small, ah! Why have I always thought you were small? Ai, compared to Min Zhi, you really are a bit small. Come here and let me make you big!¡±


    She stretched a lewd hand towards the man¡¯s most secret place and sure enough, proceeded to make him big as she said she would¡­¡­


    Nuan Chun separated his mistress¡¯s legs and attentively wiped her with a moist towel. Seeing her pink petals, his right hand that was holding the towel couldn¡¯t help but to tremble and as if possessed by demons and gods, he leaned over to kiss¡­¡­


    ¡°Ah!¡­¡­Nuan Chun, harder¡­¡­so good¡­¡­¡±


    Yun Shi Wei exited the bathroom just to see this scene. ¡°Zhu Zhu, why do you have no honor when drunk? If I had known you were drunk to this extent, I would have stopped you.¡± Halting at the front of the bed, he hugged her upper body and rested his head against her chest, taking one breast into his mouth.


    Ruan Zhu dizzily gasped: ¡°Eh? Second Cousin, you¡¯re back? But why aren¡¯t you wearing any clothes? Ah! I can¡¯t! Nuan Chun, harder¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu suddenly shivered.


    [a]¡¶Ò»¼ô÷¡¤ºìźÏã²ÐÓñô¡Çï¡·A Sprig of Plum Blossoms¡¤Red Lotus Flowers Wilting on the Glossy Autumn Mat is a poem by the Song dynasty female poet Li Qing Zhao. It¡¯s about a wife¡¯s longing and deep love towards her husband who is on a long journey. The poem is known for its elaborate emotion and unconventional rhythm.

 Chapter 109

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    No matter how many times she was teased by her husbands, she never grew tired of it. Waves of pleasure attacked her body and all of her words failed her at this moment. Apart from the constant spasms all over her body, she didn¡¯t know how to do anything other than grip their members with each hand. Mind blank, she curled up in the bed, delicately gasping for breath, finally uttering after a while: ¡°Nuan Chun, you should shave.¡±


    Nuan Chun rubbed the stubble on his chin, not understanding why Eldest Miss always made the men by her side shave. What man on earth didn¡¯t let his whiskers grow? Actually, Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t forbid them from having facial hair; she liked them leaving some above their lips so they¡¯d be as handsome as someone like Li Xun Huan[a], both cool and dashing, with a manly air.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, one more time, okay?¡± Yun Shi Wei¡¯s lips left his wife¡¯s chest and rested against her ear. His fingers replaced where his mouth just were and gently fondled.


    Ruan Zhu lowered her head to stare at the rough and large hand at her bosom, her mind still hazy: ¡°Second Cousin, you¡¯ve gone silly. You haven¡¯t come yet, right?¡± She tilted her head to study the object in her hand¨CEh? That¡¯s not right, it¡¯s Nuan Chun¡¯s¡­¡­Looking to her left, she very earnestly said: ¡°Second Cousin, you really are silly. It really hasn¡¯t come out yet! Be good and listen. We¡¯ll talk after Older Sister finishes you off this time.¡± She pulled them both over and stroked them with each hand.


    Yun Shi Wei didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry and raised his hand to pet his wife¡¯s head, pampering and helplessness in his eyes: ¡°Little fool, I¡¯m asking you if you still want it.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the fool! What man asks a woman do they want it when they haven¡¯t come yet! Or is it that you want to do it yourself? Don¡¯t tell me you never did it all of these years and can¡¯t take it anymore?¡± Ruan Zhu giggled. Because she had drank alcohol, her cheeks were even more visibly tender and charming and magnified her seductive appearance. Yun Shi Wei sucked in a breath. Peeling off her little hand, he straightened his back and rubbed his rod against her face.


    Ruan Zhu sensed her face had become a little damp¨Ca little bit of liquid had leaked out from his member. She turned her head and opened her mouth¡­¡­Feeling uncomfortable with this position, she spit it back out and flipped over so that she was kneeling with her left hand on the bed while her right hand held Yun Shi Wei¡¯s waist as she buried her head between his crotch and took him into her mouth again¡­¡­


    Shi Wei¡¯s body violently straightened and thrust forward, but seeming as if he had considered it would injure her mouth, his movements soon slowed.


    Nuan Chun used the towel to carelessly wipe his body twice before positioning himself behind Ruan Zhu. He rubbed her snowy buttocks and saw her dripping pink petals¡­¡­Gasping for air, he pushed his long member forward, opening her small hole, and entered without any hesitation¡­¡­


    Zong Zhi arrived at Yi Zhu Cottage and entered the bedroom to see this exact scene. His eyes fixedly stared at the white derriere raised high and the two swaying mounds on her chest. Striding over, his two large hands caressed his wife¡¯s bright and clean butt a few times and then moved down to squeeze her two breasts.


    Right at this time, Min Zhi and Jing Yan simultaneously entered the bedroom. They hadn¡¯t reached the bed yet¡­¡­Yun Shi Wei glanced at the several men and frostily said: ¡°Go bathe, all of you.¡±


    Having been a general for several years and gone through life and death on the battlefield, his words were commanding. But the men were not intimidated by his imposing manner; rather, it was because they knew their wife¡¯s habits that they could only covetously stare at that titillating body before turning around and entering the other room.


    Zong Zhi¡¯s desire had already ignited and he appeared the most reluctant to leave, fondling her for another good moment while giving her kiss after kiss: ¡°Wife, wait for me to return.¡± Saying that, he got up and went to bathe.


    Nuan Chun¡¯s eyes were scarlet and the speed of his movements became even more urgent. He suddenly cried out: ¡°Eldest Miss¡­¡­Eldest Miss¡­¡­¡± His body quivered as he thrust a few more times before hugging the snowy buttocks that was pasted to his abdomen, panting for air.


    Shi Wei had also reached his peak. Pulling up his wife so they were face to face, he kissed her lips while prying apart her slender and long legs¡­¡­Supporting his pillar that had long been swollen to its extreme, he abruptly entered her and started to violently pound her. ¡°Zhu Zhu¡­¡­Zhu Zhu¡­¡­¡± Yelling out a few times, he tightly held the dainty body.


    Shi Wei continued to kiss her, from his wife¡¯s lips down to her soft breasts¡­¡­Lifting his head, he saw that her eyes were actually closed and she had already fallen asleep. He had been ascetic for so many years so how could only doing it once satisfy his craving? But looking at her sleeping face, he didn¡¯t have the heart to continue: ¡°Forget it, I¡¯ll let you go for tonight and have you make it all up tomorrow.¡± Seeing the basin on the floor, he got out of bed and went over to clean himself.


    Nuan Chun had already wiped himself clean and grabbed another fresh towel to attend to his mistress.


    By the time Zong Zhi and the other two men had finished bathing, the uninterrupted affection in the bedroom had already ended. They could only glance at each other and bitterly laugh while picking up the clothes scattered on the ground to properly put on.


    Zong Zhi stopped beside the head of the bed and leaned over to kiss the little red mouth for a while before directing at Yun Shi Wei: ¡°You can have her for a few nights. When the time comes, I will demand it all back.¡± Turning to call at the other to men, they left Yi Zhu Cottage.


    When Ruan Zhu woke up the next morning, she discovered the sun had long risen. She felt the other side of the bed with her hand but there was no one. As a consequence of her hangover, she had a splitting headache and with regards to last night, couldn¡¯t recall any of it. She only dimly remembered there had been some ooxx after Yun Shi Wei had carried her back, but as to who it was with, she had no impression.


    Nuan Chun had continuously been keeping watch by the bed. Seeing his Eldest Miss had waken, he called for Xiao Si to bring over hangover soup while he went to freshen up his mistress.


    Once freshened, Ruan Zhu put on a purple smoke gauze cheongsam embroidered with small flowers and drank the hangover soup that Nuan Chun offered her before reclining against the chaise lounge. When she felt her mind had become a little clearer, she asked: ¡°Where¡¯s Second Cousin?¡±


    ¡°Second Master Yun is practicing marksmanship in the rear courtyard, saying he would come see you in a little while. The two Highnesses have gone to morning court and Mister Jing Yan has gone to the Department of Agriculture.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei never lazed around in bed and would get up when it was time. He also had the habit of exercising in the morning and never missed a day despite wind or rain.


    Nuan Chun had servants carry the morning meal inside. There were four appetizers to whet one¡¯s appetite, two light pastries, and one bowl of rice porridge.


    Ruan Zhu ate very little as recently, she was trying to lose weight. After giving birth to Bo Zhao and Yu Ze, she discovered her weight had increased by ten catties[b] and insisted on dieting every day. Her husbands didn¡¯t really comprehend what their wife was doing. To them, women were attractive when they were a little plumper. How exquisite was the sensation when touching that soft and tender, dumpling-like flesh? Losing weight was simply going against the natural order of things and not appreciating what the Heavens gave you.


    Finished with the meal, Ruan Zhu headed towards Fu Rui Hall, where Ruan Zi Xu was staying. There was something that she wanted to clearly ask him. She had wanted to question him yesterday, but seeing how everyone had been so full of cheer, she hadn¡¯t known how to bring it up. Yun Shi Yi was the worry and longing in her heart, and she had been unwilling to reveal her thoughts in front of so many people.


    Ruan Zi Xu was currently accompanying his several grandsons, distributing the trinkets and toys he had brought back from the foreign countries he had visited. Seeing his eldest daughter enter, he called for Xiao Wu to bring over some boxes and presented them for his daughter to see as if they were treasures. ¡°These are the sapphires I had bought in Persia. Among them are some that I had people make into jewelry. If Zhu¡¯er does not like them, you can take the remaining ones and forge them into styles that you prefer.¡±


    ¡°Pa¡¯s taste is very good. These styles are so unique and so pretty. Daughter really likes them.¡±


    She picked out a random necklace and Ruan Zi Xu put it on for her. The blue light reflected off her clean skin, creating a sight that was unspeakably stunning.


    Ruan Zi Xu happily praised: ¡°My daughter is the most beautiful. I just knew you would like this jewelry.¡± Seeing his daughter wanting to take the necklace off, he rushed to say: ¡°It looks very nice. Just wear it! Yu¡¯er also has her share and I have already asked Xiao Liu Zi to deliver it. There are still many rare and strange trinkets in the Ruan residence inside the city. Wait until tomorrow when we enter the city and you can pick whatever you fancy.¡±


    There were no women who disliked precious stones and Ruan Zhu naturally accepted happily: ¡°Thank you for the present, Papa. These gems are really pretty.¡± She sized herself up in the mirror for a bit, feeling very satisfied, but this mirror was really a little bit too small: ¡°This mirror is smaller than one¡¯s palm. Later, I¡¯ll have Xing Yun head to Hua Nong Yin Glass Workshop to bring over a large one. It¡¯s something from our own family and of little value so use it as you like.¡±


    The style of Fu Rui Hall was simple and unadorned. When the residence had been designed, she hadn¡¯t known where would be best to place the mirror and had forgotten about it as time went by.


    Ruan Zi Xu took back the mirror for a look, his face a little embarrassed: ¡°Speaking of this mirror, there is a history behind it. I had originally spent quite a bit in Persia to buy it and something as small as this was three thousand taels of silver. Nevertheless, I bought a few more and the seller gave me a discount.¡±


    That expensive! Ruan Zhu found it unfathomable: ¡°The manufacturing costs for an identical mirror from Hua Nong Ying Glass Workshop only requires less than two taels. Pa, you¡¯ve been cheated. Besides, why buy it in Persia? You can just take some as you please from home.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu¡¯s expression was awkward: ¡°I did not know in the beginning. It was only when I had finished my purchase that I heard the mirrors were sourced from our Tian Chu. At the time, I had been incredibly astonished as I had originally wanted to bring them back for my daughters. Now, I can only resell the majority of the mirrors now. Fortunately, not too much is lost.¡±


    As if she had recalled something, Ruan Zhu grabbed her fathers arm, her eyes brimming with tears: ¡°Papa must have heard about Eldest Brother while traveling. Where is he? Has he run into any trouble? Why hasn¡¯t there been even the slightest bit of news?¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu used his sleeve to wipe his daughter¡¯s tears: ¡°It is all right, it is all right. Your Eldest Cousin is doing very well. Although I did not run across him, I did hear about him. Do not worry, sit down first and slowly listen to Papa.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu let the wet nurses lead his grandchildren, who were amusing themselves, outside before starting to speak of matters concerning Yun Shi Yi.


    That year, he had started his west-bound journey from Mongolia, but using the land route was extremely arduous. With caravans full of several hundred people, they had rode the finest camels, trekked through the land, camped outdoors, and passed through several dozen countries before finally reaching Tian Zhu[c] over a year later. Taking the land route was extremely slow so even though he had headed west before Yun Shi Yi did, Ruan Zi Xu only arrived half a year after him. Then, he had stayed in Tian Zhu for several months with his companions before setting off towards Persia; thus, by the time they arrived there, two years had already passed.


    ¡°I first sold off a portion of my merchandise in the surrounding countries and then sold another share upon arriving in Tian Zhu. Very quickly, I heard there had been a large Chinese-Turkish fleet that had arrived in Tian Zhu as early as half a year ago, but unfortunately had left several months before I arrived. They only knew the person commanding the fleet was surnamed Yun. Ai, at the time, I had yet to know that he was precisely Shi Yi. If I had known it was him, I would have chased after him no matter what. Afterwards, I departed for Persia, only to hear that the Chinese-Turkish fleet had remained there for nearly two months.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡± Ruan Zhu impatiently questioned him: ¡°What direction did Eldest Cousin¡¯s fleet sail towards? Was it towards the east or to the west?¡±


    ¡°I heard they were heading east, going towards Da Qin.¡±


    Going to Da Qin¨Cthat was but an extremely distant destination, ah! At this time, the ancient Suez Canal had long been abandoned and the new waterway was not opened until the eighteenth century. Wanting to reach Da Qin in this era required detouring around the Cape of Good Hope in the southern part of Africa.


    Ruan Zhu dazedly sat back down. Why on earth was he so persistent? Was he not concerned about his family back home?


    At night, Ruan Zhu brought up this matter with Yun Shi Wei.


    Shi Wei contemplated for a moment, then began: ¡°I understand Eldest Brother¡¯s worries. Zong Zhi is the Prince of Qi, Min Zhi is the Prince of Yong, Jing Yan is a son of the prime minister¡¯s family yet the one who is the principle husband is actually a commoner. Zhu Zhu, what do you think Eldest Brother feels? How would outsiders talk?¡±


    Ruan Zhu raised her grief-filled eyes towards him: ¡°But I don¡¯t care about that at all, ah!¡±


    Yun Shi Wei told her: ¡°You see, Zhu Zhu, there are many things a man must do. Giving their wife children, living well for their family and also living with dignity¨Ceven if one suffers, all men would be willing. Zhu Zhu, you don¡¯t understand; this is a man¡¯s responsibility.¡±


    Ruan Zhu seemed to have somewhat become aware: ¡°Then, going to the battlefield was also a responsibility, right?¡±


    ¡°If I have children in the future, they will surely live a harder life compared to Bo Yu and Bo Ya because they will feel inferior as I come from a background without any honor or future prospects. I am currently successful, but Eldest Brother isn¡¯t yet. He is a businessman, and merchants of all dynasties and courts have been looked down on. He would have to invest more and go through much greater hardships in order to make an achievement in this field.¡± He held his wife against his chest and lowered his head to kiss her: ¡°I led the Zhu Ri army back in advance not long after the imperial army broke through the Red Eyebrow¡¯s hold because I kept thinking about you. The main army still needs another month before they can victoriously return. After that time, officers will be bestowed rewards based on their accomplishments and I will, at the very least, be made into a second-rank high official. Zhu Zhu, I didn¡¯t cause you to lose face and Eldest Brother won¡¯t either.¡±


    ¡°Ai, you¡¯ve both worked hard.¡± Ruan Zhu faintly sighed.


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, what Eldest Brother and I do is for the Yun clan and also for our shared children. You do not need to unnecessarily blame yourself.¡± Yun Shi Wei hugged his wife and fondled her soft mounds, inevitably becoming adventurous and uncontrollable. He smiled: ¡°Last night, you were so drunk that I couldn¡¯t satisfy my craving. I should ask for compensation now.¡±


    Ruan Zhu felt his crotch, her expression emotional: ¡°Second Cousin, I will properly wait upon you tonight.¡±


    The next day was a day of rest for the court and with the exception of Jing Yan who was still working, Zong Zhi and Min Zhi were both home.


    Yet an imperial edict from the Emperor arrived. This edict came quite suddenly and was for her several husbands.


    Zong Zhi led the household in kneeling as the official from the Ministry of Appointments read out the edict.


    When everything had been read out, Ruan Zhu remained bewildered. What was going on with the Emperor? He seemed to especially like handing out promotions when he had nothing better to do? Her family¡¯s Second had been given the position of a second-rank deputy of the Privy Council[d], which could be considered pretty good.


    But in addition to his duties with his original post, Zong Zhi had also been given the responsibility of giving council in political affairs. This was not an insignificant position. Though he was not the prime minister, there was not much difference.


    As for Min Zhi, he had been promoted from a fifth-rank officer of the Hong Lu Court to a high-ranking officer of the Da Li Court[e].


    The Emperor had bestowed all of this to her husbands and had similarly not forgotten about her. Towards this, Ruan Zhu was quite satisfied¨Cat least it wasn¡¯t a reputation with no substance. She had been given three thousand fiefs situated along the banks of the Lan River. How much profit could be gained from this? No one was afraid of having too much money.


    She didn¡¯t discern why the Emperor had lost his mind to so abruptly confer these positions to her husbands, but the two princes in the her family seemed to know why. In private, Zong Zhi questioned Min Zhi: ¡°Father-Emperor wants to use official positions to oppress the Yun brothers. What do you think of this?¡±


    During the several years he had been putting down the rebellion, Yun Shi Wei had generated quite a track record. Based on the conduct he had always displayed in Lan Zhou, by the time Head Yun returned from his travels, he would inevitably obtain great honor and glory. If the Emperor wanted to repress the Yun clan, then he could only give his sons even better and higher official positions. At that time, under the pressure of public opinion, it was possible Yun Shi Yi would be forced to withdraw from his position as principal husband.


    Min Zhi expressionlessly side-eyed him: ¡°The one being forced to be the heir isn¡¯t me so why the hell are you asking me this? I don¡¯t care about your business, but if you hurt Zhu¡¯er, I won¡¯t let you get away with it.¡±


    Zong Zhi¡¯s face cooled: ¡°I care about Zhu¡¯er more than you.¡±


    Min Zhi snorted and no longer responded. In fact, he had his own worries¨CPrime Minister Sima of Nan Ling was chasing after him. If he was unable to persuade him, he would then approach the Emperor to drag him back to Nan Ling. There was absolutely no way Prime Minister Sima would relinquish his power and return empty-handed.

 Chapter 110

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er |(lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ʱ³½ | sichen |time system comprising of 12 two-hour periods of the day; one sichen is the equivalent of two modern hours


    Àï | li |unit of measurement that has varied over time but has now been standardized to 500 meters (Wikipedia)


    Both Zong Zhi and Min Zhi were extremely prideful men who were unwilling to expose their worries in front of their families. To them, men who were unable to even protect their wife and children were useless and had no right to be a husband.


    Fortunately, the Emperor didn¡¯t urgently press the issue as he knew doing so would be counterproductive.


    Ruan Zi Xu somewhat understood the Emperor¡¯s narrow-mindedness, as he only wanted to see his daughters living happily while his sons-in-laws did the worrying. Apart from managing his businesses every day, he played with his grandchildren while eating candy[a] during his spare time, paying particular attention to the successor of his clan, little Yu Ze, and spending his days freely and unrestrained.


    He had become accustomed to living in Guan Ju Villa and seldom returned to the Ruan residence within the city. His excuse was the same as his daughters¨Cthe Ruan residence was too cheerless and not nearly as lively as Guan Ju Villa.


    But Ruan Zhu could still discern his loneliness, just like how a sixty- or seventy-year-old elder would still want to look for a partner. Ruan Zhi Xu was only forty years of age. Being alone for the rest of his life was inexcusable.


    A year ago, Zong Zhi had invited a prominent scholar from the Imperial Hanlin Academy to be Zhi Xi¡¯s master. Very quickly, Bo Yu and Bo Ya also reached the age of enrollment and they all gathered together to study. But Bo Ya had no interest in studying, especially not towards those subjects, and everything went in her left ear and out her right.


    At the time, Zong Zhi had simply remarked¨CThe child had indeed inherited Ruan Zhu¡¯s genes. He had poked fun of his wife about this once: Fortunately, Bo Ya is female. Even if she was no good at studying, it would be enough if she was virtuous and beautiful as they wouldn¡¯t need to worry about her unable to be married off.


    Ruan Zhu had been outwardly displeased but rejoiced inside that luckily, her son Bo Yu resembled Zong Zhi and had displayed brilliance at a young age. He could completely memorize and recite everything his Master had taught him the same day, and also had never forgotten a single word in the poems Ruan Zhu had him commit to memory. It was not an exaggeration to say Bo Yu could read ten lines in a glance. On this point, even his elder brother Zhi Xi couldn¡¯t compare.


    But Zhi Xi had an earnest temperament, the demeanor of his father Yun Shi Yi, and treated his younger brothers and sister dearly.


    Thud! Right when Ruan Zhu turned around, Bo Zhao fell from the sofa and burst into tears, whether because he had truly been hurt from the fall or from the shock of it all. She picked up her son and patted his back, softly coaxing: ¡°Zhao¡¯er, don¡¯t cry. You are a man and the more you fall, the stronger and resilient you will become. It would be awful if you became a false woman with all of your crying. If you can¡¯t find a wife in the future, you must not blame Ma for not reminding you.¡±


    How could a six-month-old toddler understand these deep concepts? He continued to wail without pause.


    Min Zhi entered and only discovered his son had fallen from the sofa after he asked. Immediately feeling distressed, he took his son from his wife¡¯s arms: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, what are you doing? There are wet nurses to care for the children. Do you find it interesting to be an imperial consort who does odd jobs like a commoner? To see my son fall?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t I only worried my son won¡¯t be close to me? Yu Ze¡¯s already been snatched away by Papa; I absolutely don¡¯t want this son to be taken by the wet nurse.¡± Ruan Zhu felt wronged by her husband¡¯s words and pouted: ¡°A child¡¯s mind is very simple and pure¨Cwhoever treats him well, that¡¯s who he¡¯ll be close to. If you don¡¯t even know this, then it¡¯s clear you¡¯ve lived for naught these few years.¡±


    Actually, Ruan Zhi Xu hadn¡¯t ¡®snatched¡¯ Yu Ze away. Every few days, he would take the toddler out for some fun but they would return within a couple of sichens.


    ¡°How good could an infant¡¯s memory be? After a few years, we¡¯ll dismiss the wet nurse and our son will forget about her after a few days.¡± The Bo Zhao in his arms was still crying incessantly. Just like before, Min Zhi was no good at coaxing and opened his diaper for a look: ¡°He didn¡¯t pee, ah. I see this kid is asking for a spanking.¡±


    Ruan Zhu pushed him: ¡°He might be hungry. I¡¯ll feed him.¡± Pushing aside her own collar, she wiped her breasts with a brocade handkerchief dipped in clean water before hoisting her son up so he could suckle.


    Min Zhi watched as his son touched his wife¡¯s snowy mounds, jealousy welling up inside him.


    The little guy was very interesting. While he nursed from one side, he used his hand to protect the other. Min Zhi reached over to nudge the little hand away. Bo Zhao¡¯s small mouth moved as if he was going to cry. Ruan Zhu hurriedly placed his little hand back on her chest and rebuked her husband: ¡°Go outside if you have nothing to do. Stop stirring up trouble.¡±


    Min Zhi embraced his wife from behind: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, let¡¯s go see the lotuses later, okay?¡±


    Ruan Zhu recalled last time¡¯s clandestine affair, feeling both sweet and shy: ¡°It¡¯s already autumn and it¡¯ll be cold. Besides, aren¡¯t you afraid of being punished?¡± After what happened last time, Min Zhi had been penalized with not being able to approach her for a month.


    ¡°Not afraid.¡± Min Zhi picked up his wife along with the child still in her arms to set them on his lap: ¡°Then, how about we head to my Fei Yu Pavilion later? Zhu¡¯er, I will definitely please you.¡±


    ¡°No good. If Big Brother Lu, Second Cousin, and also Jing Yan find out, they won¡¯t be happy. It¡¯s also not far.¡±


    ¡°Every time, we only get three days and have to rotate among five guys. When Head Yun returns, then it¡¯ll be sharing among six men. And there¡¯s also your vacation days too. Zhu¡¯er, I think this is too cruel.¡±


    ¡°Ai, the others haven¡¯t complained so why are you so fussy? Doesn¡¯t everyone do this? Or do you want to chop me up and each person gets one section?¡± She was also very helpless and felt the current setup was the most fair.


    ¡°I still have to wait quite a few days before it¡¯s my turn. Or how about¡­¡­¡± He whispered right next to her ear: ¡°We all gather tonight?¡±


    To be able to be loved by so many men was an unspeakably honey-sweet feeling. She also really liked it. Although she¡¯d become a bit tired, they all considered her body and health and were not too demanding! Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes gleamed and she lightly dropped her head in a nod.


    Min Zhi was overjoyed and lowered his head to peck at his wife¡¯s mouth multiple times. She pushed him away: ¡°Don¡¯t press against our baby.¡± She continued to sit in his lap as she fed her child and then patted the toddler¡¯s back to make him burp after he had had his fill. Rising from her husband¡¯s lap, she strolled along the room, coaxing her son to sleep.


    Min Zhi waited until Bo Zhao had fallen asleep to softly say: ¡°I¡¯ll take him back to his room. It¡¯s late; you should hurry and bathe and then wait for us later in bed.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s still early!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not. Quickly, go prepare. You¡¯re more finicky than other people with everything you do. Don¡¯t make us wait.¡±


    ¡°Really, this man.¡± Ruan Zhu watched the father and son pair leave the room and was just about to call for Nuan Chun to enter and assist her in bathing.


    But at this time, Xiao Xi Zi entered. ¡°Niang niang, Third Concubine-Father Hua has come to pay his respects.¡±


    Ever since Ruan Yu became pregnant, Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu had been handed over to Xing Yun and Liu Shui for them to manage and she only went to inspect the store every few days or so. The people by her side had then been changed to Xiao Xi Zi and Xiao Chun Zi. These two palace eunuchs worked intelligently and had been Qu Gao and He Gua¡¯s disciples for many years, learning under their instructions.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Third Concubine-Father wish to go to Lao Shu Village to find my mother? Why hasn¡¯t he left yet? Let him in!¡± Ruan Zhu remembered how when she had gone to Fu Rui Hall the day before yesterday to pay respects to her father, Third Concubine-Father Hua had been there to bid Ruan Zi Xu farewell, saying he wanted to go to Lao Shu Village to accompany Madam Ruan. At the time, Ruan Zi Xu had contemplated for a long time.


    Third Concubine-Father Hua was Madam Ruan¡¯s third secondary husband and he had two sons born from her. The year Madam Ruan had departed the Ruan clan, he and his children had actually stayed behind and he continued to work as an accountant for the Ruan clan, from Yu Zhou to the capital, and then to Lan Zhou.


    How Ruan Zhu had treated him could be considered pretty well, and Third Concubine-Father Hua¡¯s two sons had now become adults. She had given each of them a fifth-rank imperial bodyguard, helped them settle down, and allowed them to return to being listed on the Hua clan¡¯s household register. The two men currently had their own careers and residences and life was not worrying.


    As a man of this time period, Third Concubine-Father Hua was undoubtedly very intelligent and knew how to pursue his goals. If he had followed Madam Ruan in leaving the Ruan clan at that time, his two sons would become mediocre and without any drive, just like how Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu now coarsely passed his days in the small mountain village, hindering his child¡¯s future.


    A few days ago, Ruan Zhu had once again sent men to inquire about Mother Ruan, and the reply had been that Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu¡¯s child was now hoisting a hoe and working in the fields. There originally was no reason to go through all of this hardship as Ruan Yu had left behind quite a sum that one time she had visited, but who knew whose greedy eyes they had attracted, for they were robbed one day in the middle of the night. Fourth Concubine-Father had unfortunately been struck with a sword while protecting his child and merely one night later, breathed his last.


    As for Wei Rong, he had died of a sexual disease several years prior. Madam Ruan had retrieved him from an unlicensed whorehouse a few years ago, but had then discovered he had been infected by said illness. Once the disease had set, his appearance had, reportedly, been awfully frightening with pus oozing from his entire body. Madam Ruan had been worried her entire family would also be infected so together with her son, they had carried Wei Rong to an abandoned and dilapidated temple, where a few steamed buns were thrown inside every day for him to eat.


    Madam Ruan presently lived with her son, and they were extremely hard-pressed for money, frequently eating without knowing when their next meal would be. But why was she not willing to return?


    Really, what a pain! Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t understand what Madam Ruan was being so stubborn for. Was it because of her unyielding character, or was it because she didn¡¯t have the face to see her former lover? But she had decided to personally visit Lao Shu Village and would bring back Madam Ruan even if she had to tie her up to do so.


    Third Concubine-Father Hua entered and performed the rites to Ruan Zhu: ¡°Niang niang, I have come to bid you farewell. It is all thanks to your favor these past few years that Yang¡¯er and Xian¡¯er have lived smoothly and have also presently settled down. Like this, my worries have also been eased.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes turned: ¡°Where do you intend to go?¡±


    Third Concubine-Father Hua¡¯s eyes were slightly melancholy: ¡°The reason I did not leave with your mother at that time was in fear of harming my two children, and now they all have their own families and careers. I originally should have accompanied your mother and have heard she is not doing too well.¡±


    Ruan Zhu faintly sighed: ¡°I was just thinking of going to Lao Shu Village. Let us go there together then!¡±


    Joy flashed across Third Concubine-Father¡¯s face before it immediately dimmed again: ¡°I am afraid your mother is too stubborn and will still refuse to return.¡±


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll just tie her up.¡±


    Lao Shu Village was five hundred li from Lan Zhou. The mountain road was difficult to pass and the carriage could only travel several dozen li a day, resulting in them arriving over ten days later.


    ¡°It¡¯s only several hundred li. If I was on a horse, I could arrive in only three days. Are you tired? How about getting off the carriage for a quick break and eating something before entering the village?¡± Yun Shi Wei had been bestowed the position of a deputy of the Privy Council, but he hadn¡¯t yet taken office when he decided to accompany his wife to Lao Shu Village.


    The mountain road was rugged and hard to traverse, and Ruan Zhu became dizzy from all of the jolting. Fortunately, she had been continuously held against his chest during their journey, which had lessened the bumpiness and suffering.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Have you forgotten how much worse it was the year we had to flee from the southern border? At that time, I was even pregnant with Zhi Xi!¡±


    Yun Shi Wei recalled the dire situation of that year, but because it was also the longest period of time that they had been alone together, he also felt full of sweetness. He lowly laughed: ¡°Zhu Zhu, when will you be willing to give me a child?¡±


    Ruan Zhu thought about how since she had been traveling these past few days, she hadn¡¯t had the chance to breastfeed her children so her milk had then stopped soon after. As soon as her menses came again, it would be easy for her to become pregnant: ¡°Second Cousin, have you taken the contraceptive? If you haven¡¯t, I can consider this for you.¡± Shi Wei was twenty-six years old. In the ancient era, a man shouldn¡¯t not have a son at this age.


    ¡°No, of course not.¡± Yun Shi Wei repeated his answer, excitedly hugging his wife as he gave her a very long kiss.


    Ruan Zhu had brought several dozen troops with her to enter Lao Shu Village. The villagers had never seen such a sight before and all came outside to see the excitement.


    The soldiers halted at the entrance of Madam Ruan¡¯s house, and Ruan Zhu, dressed head to toe in luxurious clothes, stepped gracefully down from the carriage with Yun Shi Wei¡¯s support.


    The villagers pointed and gossiped among themselves, all exposing amazement and envy though none of them had the courage to step forward.


    Yun Shi Wei held his wife¡¯s hand as they entered the small courtyard. Third Concubine-Father Hua came down from the carriage behind, but didn¡¯t dare to follow too closely.


    Ruan Zhu stood in the small courtyard, extremely surprised, taking in the man on the roof and the mother and child working on the ground, her eyes incredulous.


    The courtyard was full of movement. A large pile of hay had been pushed into the middle and Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu¡¯s son, Zhu Ming, was currently binding them. The hay bundles were then thrown onto the roof by Madam Ruan where they were caught by the man on top of the roof and then neatly laid in place.


    The man towering over them was around forty or so years of age with a handsome countenance and radiated with energy despite his dark complexion. Ruan Zhu recognized him¨Cwas too familiar with him¨Cand turned towards Shi Wei: ¡°We came at the wrong time. This endeavor has been stolen by Papa.¡±


    That¡¯s correct¨Cthe man that was repairing the roof was precisely Ruan Zi Xu. But when had he arrived in Lao Shu Village and why hadn¡¯t he mentioned it to her, causing her to make such a difficult trek in vain? Ai, trying to guess the thoughts of the elderly was too hard.


    Madam Ruan stopped her movements of throwing hay and stared at her daughter for a long time, unable to say anything. In the end, her face spread open in a smile: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, it is wonderful you were able to come. Ma will cook something delicious for you in a little while.¡± Ruan Zhu felt distressed. Madam Ruan wasn¡¯t yet forty, but the great changes over these years had caused the noble madam who had lead a pampered life to become a female villager who worked the land.


    Atop the roof, Ruan Zi Xu had long seen the imposing soldiers entering the village. Stepping down the ladder, he glanced at his daughter: ¡°How have you just arrived? You actually took half a month to travel only five hundred li? Did you go on a scenic tour or did you come to bring your mother home?¡±


    Ruan Zhu laughed: ¡°Pa, it¡¯s you that¡¯s too quick. This daughter remembers that you hadn¡¯t yet left on the day that we did. Ma, when did Pa arrive?¡±


    ¡°Your father has been here for nearly ten days now. When he arrived, he argued that this was bad, that was bad, the house was leaking terribly¨Che almost drove me mad.¡± Madam Ruan handed a towel to her lord for him to wipe his sweat. Though she was nagging, one could see she was in a very good mood.


    ¡°Why repair the house or whatever? Pa, Ma, you might as well return to Lan Zhou with me.¡±


    ¡°If you want to return, return by yourself. I will live here for a while and then see.¡± Ruan Zhi Xu was overjoyed at being attended to by his wife. In his memory, she had only been this attentive when they had been newlywed. Soon after, Wei Rong had entered the family and the husband and wife pair became like strangers. Being able to experience a world with only two people these past few days, oh Buddha, it was like he had returned to his young days.


    Ruan Zhu was confused and shifted her eyes: ¡°Has Pa and Ma become addicted to restoring houses after repairing this one? When we return to Lan Zhou, this daughter will give my dear parents a plot of land and let the two of you build houses every day for fun.¡±


    Madam Ruan happily mock-scolded her: ¡°Look at this girl, thinking constructing houses is done as a hobby.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Sister, this seat is for you.¡± Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu¡¯s son, Zhu Ming, moved a chair over. Ruan Zhu felt a bit melancholy upon thinking of his deceased father and patted his head, warmly saying: ¡°Return with Eldest Sister, okay? You need to study.¡±


    Fourth Concubine-Father Zhu only had this one child. Madam Ruan had originally birthed twins for him, but unfortunately, it had been a difficult birth and only Zhu Ming had survived. This child was only twelve, and the rustic lifestyle had caused him to be simple and honest. Turning his head to glance at Ruan Zi Xu and Madam Ruan, he gave Ruan Zhu a naive smile and shook his head: ¡°I will listen to Mother and Father.¡±


    Ruan Zi Xu placed his hand on Zhu Ming¡¯s shoulder: ¡°This child is very good. I will bring him up as if he was my own and teach him how to read and how to do business. In the future, when he settles down, inherits the Zhu clan, and burns the joss sticks, Fourth Zhu will surely be comforted upon knowing it.¡±


    Madam Ruan suddenly leaned against her husband¡¯s shoulder, choked with emotion: ¡°My Lord, it was I who let you down previously!¡± She had felt lonely when younger because Ruan Zi Xu was constantly busy with work and gone for the entire day. As a result, being with Wei Rong gave her a novel experience while being with Ruan Zi Xu became unfamiliar. It even caused her to feel disinclined towards looking after his two daughters. As she experienced several grim years of hardship, she began to reminisce his protective umbrella more and more. Him being able to show her consideration and care without any complaints or regrets since their marriage was the most sincere love.


    Ruan Zi Xu patted her shoulder: ¡°If I could have arrived to bring you home earlier, many things would not have happened.¡±


    Having gone through so many tribulations, this mature couple had finally reconciled! Ruan Zhu felt relieved and wished that everyone henceforth would be harmonious.


    ¡°Master, Madam!¡± Third Concubine-Father Hua stepped out from behind Ruan Zhu and fell to his knees.


    But Madam Ruan didn¡¯t even glance at him and fished out a letter of divorce from her pocket, throwing it over. Third Concubine-Father Hua¡¯s face changed tremendously upon seeing it, and the hand that held the letter trembled.


    Madam Ruan resolutely said: ¡°After asking myself, with the exception of Wei Rong, I treated you the best during our time in the Ruan residence, but in the end, you actually abandoned me to ensure your future. Third Hua, I do not blame you for being heartless, so you should also not blame me.¡±


    ¡°Madam, what I did was also for our children.¡± Third Concubine-Father Hua cried out.


    ¡°That is why I do not blame you. But I can no longer be together with you. You should leave! I will look after Yang¡¯er and Xian¡¯er.¡±


    Towards Third Concubine-Father Hua being divorced, Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t feel the least bit of injustice. As a man, he couldn¡¯t support his wife and children or give them shelter from the wind and rain; instead, he continued to rely on others to survive. Having lived such an easy life for so many years, he still could courageously argue that it was all for his children?


    Ruan Zi Xu had fulfilled all of the responsibilities of a man¨Cprofessional success, a wealthy family, a flawless character. Unfortunately, Madam Ruan hadn¡¯t cherished him previously but now that she had mended her ways, she could live in bliss for the remaining half of her life.


    Females had numerous Lord Husbands, but how many of them would sincerely and genuinely accompany you to the end? Ruan Zhu felt rueful. At least the six men by her side could all be trusted.


    Ruan Zhu only resided in Lao Shu Village for three days before departing. Before she left, she took Zhu Ming with her and left behind a squadron of imperial bodyguards to protect Ruan Zi Xu and Madam Ruan. She left behind a message for her parents to take it easy and to quickly return home after they were done with their honeymoon. A world with only two people was good, but it was also important that they changed the location to one where they had no worries about basic necessities.


    Even in her dreams, Ruan Zhu would¡¯ve never thought that the day they arrived in Lan Zhou, Yun Shi Yi would return.


    [a] º¬âÂŪËï, idiom meaning enjoying a happy and leisurely old age

 Chapter 111

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, I have the impression that you don¡¯t really like your mother.¡± On the way back to the city, Yun Shi Wei voiced the question in his mind. Having gone to war for several years, he had mastered the art of observing others and could pick out what they were feeling from their expressions and each of their movements.


    ¡°Second Cousin, you really don¡¯t resemble the previous Second Cousin, who didn¡¯t have a brain, at all. If I didn¡¯t know you especially well, I would have thought you had been possessed by an evil spirit.¡± Ruan Zhu had been thinking about something. Upon hearing her Lord Husband¡¯s question, she couldn¡¯t help but to side-eye him.


    ¡°If I was still the same as before, how could I have the achievements I do now?¡± Yun Shi Wei chuckled: ¡°I think you are in conflict with Maternal Aunt and don¡¯t treat her as warmly as you do with Maternal Uncle. Don¡¯t children like to act spoiled towards their parents? The way you treat Maternal Aunt is just like how one would respect an elder.¡±


    Ruan Zhu tilted her head, appearing both melancholy and doubtful: ¡°Second Cousin, let me ask you something. Am I important or are the children important? If our child and I were to simultaneously fall into a river, who would you save first?¡±


    Yun Shi Wei scratched his head, his eyebrows knitting together: ¡°Zhu Zhu, this question is really hard to answer. Of course you¡¯re important, but the child is also important too. Losing the child will cause me pain, but losing you, my life will completely lose meaning. We can always have more children. In any case, it¡¯s not like we can¡¯t have more.¡±


    This was the reason why, in the most pivotal part, her previous father would rather save that woman and escape, leaving his biological daughter to be crushed into pieces by stone.


    Having to see her child die before her eyes¨Cimpossible, she could never do it. Men were not the ones that gave birth so they didn¡¯t understand the emotion in carrying one¡¯s own flesh and blood. She carried each child for ten moons. From the moment she could feel each child¡¯s movements within her belly, maternal love engulfed her.


    To men, their beloved woman was far more precious than their child at any point in time. But if one said her previous father regarded romantic love as important, then how could he have liked the old and hated the new and done such a thing as abandoning her mother? He also treated Qin Hai Dong, that adopted son, very well, much better than how he treated her, his biological daughter.


    In her previous world, she had met with tragedy after tragedy because of her father¡¯s heartlessness. Having transmigrated, how could she allow the tragedy to continue?


    It was true that she didn¡¯t like Madam Ruan, and to the point where she disliked the idea of her entering the doors of the Ruan residence¡¯s entrance. But she disliked even more the idea of Ruan Zi Xu inviting a strange woman inside. If the lady then led in a Zhang Hai Dong or a Li Hai Dong, she¡¯d go insane.


    ¡°Second Cousin, you have four developed limbs and a simple mind. There are many things you don¡¯t understand.¡± Ruan Zhu sarcastically spoke but knew the current Yun Shi Wei was capable of supporting both heaven and earth and was the epitome of the three words ¡®a masculine man.¡¯


    ¡°You have the cheek to mock me? Watch as I make it so that you won¡¯t be able to get out of bed tonight.¡±


    From the day her milk had stopped to the present, over twenty days had already passed. Her monthlies hadn¡¯t arrived yet, but his desire to have a child had grown stronger and stronger with each passing day. He stretched his hand inside her clothes to tickle her underarm, watching as she collapsed into his lap in uncontrollable giggles, feeling extremely content. Abruptly, those bright eyes became filled with tears and he hastily let go.


    ¡°Zhu Zhu, are you all right? I was too forceful. Does it hurt?¡±


    Ruan Zhu shook her head. She had been feeling sentimental. Drinking Meng Po¡¯s soup in the underworld wasn¡¯t actually a bad thing as one could forget the past world¡¯s shadows and everything could start again from nothing.


    Traveling to Lao Shu Village required ten-plus days and the return journey also called for that amount of time. When they had almost reached Guan Ju Villa, situated near the shore of Lan River, they found their way had been blocked by the vast crowd ahead of them.


    Ruan Zhu pushed open the carriage¡¯s window to look ahead but saw the wharf was a boiling cauldron of voices with people rubbing shoulders as they moved in an endless throng¡­¡­Perhaps to haul merchandise or to run over to embrace their loved ones.


    With a turn of her eyes, the several dozen large ships docked by the Lan River¡¯s shore entered her view. Their anchors had been thrown and all of their sails furled. Group after group of sailors headed down from the ships, each resembling travelers that had finally returned home after many years away with excitement on their faces as they frantically waved their hands and shouted something.


    ¡°The ships have entered port. This happens every day and there is no reason to agitate the commoners. We will stay here a while longer and pass once the crowd has lessened.¡± The imperial bodyguards had stepped forward to clear the way but were stopped by Ruan Zhu. Though she was now a member of the honorable imperial clan, she couldn¡¯t do something like using her position to bully others.


    Lan Zhou had the largest wharf in Tian Chu, and the event of several dozen large ships docking at once had happened before. But when had it been as lively as it was today?


    Ruan Zhu stepped out of the carriage, feeling disquieted for some reason.


    Her eyebrows gracefully knit together as she stared at the moored vessels in the distance.


    At this time, a man with a tall and broad stature headed down from a majestic ship. The crowd resembled the tide as they withdrew on both sides, opening up a path. When the man had finally reached the shore, he swept his eyes over the throng of people for a very long time, his face revealing disappointment.


    Even though they were far apart, and even though she hadn¡¯t seen him in years, Ruan Zhu still recognized him and could sense his current mood. Tears rapidly fell down her face. But there were too many people on the wharf, and the more anxious she became, the harder it was to cram between them.


    Yun Shi Wei had also noticed him. With a large leap, he jumped on top of their carriage and shouted towards the figure far away: ¡°Eldest Brother!¡± He used his internal force to transmit his voice very far, so like a thunderclap bursting from the sky, his words suppressed the clamor of the crowd.


    Yun Shi Yi swiveled to look in their direction. His eyes first landed on his brother before moving again, dropping onto his wife, where his gaze remained fixed, unable to look away.


    In a flash, Ruan Zhu¡¯s cheeks were stained with tears. Unable to say anything, she continued to wave at him.


    This man that was like a mountain, ah! She had transmigrated next to him with a soul full of pain from her past world, and he had shown her boundless care and built a safe haven for her with his solid arms, always using tender and careful words to cherish her in every possible way.


    As long as he was there, she would feel the warmth of time.


    While Yun Shi Yi neared his wife, a team of valiant soldiers stepped ahead to open the way for him, and the crowd that had been blocking the road quickly shifted to either side.


    It was an afternoon in late autumn, with a cool breeze gently blowing past. But sweat still seeped from Ruan Zhu¡¯s palms. Her heart madly pounded in her chest as she warmly, excitedly, stared at the man heading in her direction.


    ¡°Wife, I¡¯ve returned.¡± Yun Shi Yi had finally reached his wife. He had only walked several hundred meters, but his heart had been anxious the entire time, wishing he could fly over to be by her side.


    Ruan Zhu raised her head, taking in the man who often appeared in her dreams.


    He was still as handsome as before. The layer of black stubble on his chin set off his attractive, mighty, and angular face. His bright pupils were as if they had been lathered in light and were permeated with his life¡¯s experiences, emotions, and vigor. While he silently gazed at her, his eyes expressed the sincerity of his feelings.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin!¡± Ruan Zhu didn¡¯t care that the wharf was completely crowded, didn¡¯t care how many pairs of eyes were watching. She threw herself into his embrace and tightly encircled his neck with her arms.


    Yun Shi Yi hugged his wife¡¯s waist, pulling her soft body against his chest. He still didn¡¯t feel like this was real, as if this was only something in a dream. The Heavens knew how many times he had held her like this in them.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, take Zhu¡¯er away, away from the wharf, to a place with no one, to the ends of the earth¡­¡­¡± Ruan Zhu leaned against his chest, softly begging. At this moment, she only wanted to be alone with him. What Guan Ju Villa; what Tian Chu; what superior life of the imperial clan¨Cnone of that was important.


    Yun Shi Yi noticed a small boat docked several meters away from them and carried his wife over without saying anything. Once aboard, he instructed the boatman to quickly take them offshore and then strode into the ship¡¯s cabin.


    The small boat slipped further and further away from the shore, heading downstream.


    Yun Shi Wei¡¯s eyes were sincerely full of well wishes and he smiled as he shook his head: ¡°Zhu Zhu, you said you¡¯d give me a son but my hopes are dashed once again. The next time we meet, I won¡¯t let you go no matter what you say.¡±


    Aboard the small boat, Yun Shi Yi placed his wife on top of the bed then drew all the curtains. The cabin immediately dimmed.


    They could see each other¡¯s glittering eyes with the feeble light remaining in the room. Practically at the same time, they moved to hug each other tightly, frantically kissing.


    He first kissed her cheeks, lapping up her tears before swallowing them¡­¡­Then he moved to her lips, stealing the fragrance inside.


    She was kissed to tears and new teardrops immediately poured out again. Her small hands scrabbled at his clothing, removing his blue cheongsam and his inner jacket. Her hands then moved lower, but felt a metal chain. Surprised, she pushed her hands into his trousers, feeling a bit, before removing his pants. My God!


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, what in the world are you wearing a chastity belt for?¡±


    Yun Shi Yi laughed: ¡°You do not know how unrestrained the females of the West are. Their saliva flows as soon as they see a man to their liking and their actions are faster than that of a rabbit¡¯s. If I didn¡¯t protect myself so closely, I would have probably long been eaten clean by them.¡±


    ¡°So it was like that!¡± The ancient female Westerners were all coarse and even Athena, their goddess of wisdom and beauty, was a prostitute, parading herself ostentatiously through town without any clothing. It was fine if one wasn¡¯t decent, but she even instigated the females of an island to sell themselves.


    ¡°Since you were returning and had to stay on the ship for so long, you should have taken off the chastity belt, right?¡± She stroked his body. He had tanned. Being on the open sea had caused him to become even sturdier and his muscles were now more prominent, a symbol of his strength and beauty.


    ¡°Taking it off would be more troublesome.¡± Every time he recalled the lingering scenes of affection with her, his desire would always challenge his rationality. Using the chastity belt to secure his expanding member was, on the contrary, a much better idea.


    ¡°Poor Eldest Cousin.¡± She saw a key hanging from a red rope around his neck. Taking the necklace off, she unlocked the chastity belt, allowing the chain to fall from his crotch. She stretched her hand to stroke the freed member¡­¡­


    It was as if Buddha had found its master. The rod immediately responded to her passionate touch, and quickly swelled, become gigantic in a short moment.


    Noticing a pot of water on the nightstand, she dabbed their clothes in water and wiped him clean. She quietly commanded: ¡°Eldest Cousin, stand up.¡± She wanted to please him, to console his heart that had been alone for so many years.


    He stood up as instructed, and she kneeled in front of him, her head fixed against his abdomen. Holding that fiery source of heat, she opened her small mouth to take him in deeply, all the way in¡­¡­


    He gently moved forward and lowered his head to look at her, panting: ¡°My darling, I always dreamt of your shadow every evening during these few years we were separated, over a thousand days and nights. Suddenly seeing you makes everything feel as if it is not real.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t respond and continued to use her mouth in this most pleasurable act. Her hands also weren¡¯t idle. One hand held the base of his desire while the other bypassed his firm buttocks to gently touch the sensitive spot underneath his member. Their fluids flowed uncontrollably, dripping down her snowy white skin all the way to the floor.

 Chapter 112

    Glossary


    ¶ù | er | (lit. child) diminutive marker used as a form of endearment


    Yun Shi Yi felt as if he was in a dream. To him, living abroad these past few years had caused the yearning he felt towards her to penetrate deep into his marrow. ¡°Nn¡­¡­darling¡­¡­just like that¡­¡­exactly this feeling¡­¡­¡± In the years that he had left her, he hadn¡¯t experienced this once. Of course, there were other methods to resolve the issue, but no matter which one, it would all blaspheme her.


    He hugged her head, pushing himself towards her mouth¡­¡­


    She devotedly kneeled before him, lifting her head to see his dark eyes were half-closed, his expression bewitched¡­¡­At this moment, she only wanted him to be happy, so she took him in even deeper. She could feel him entering her throat, throbbing.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­Wife, this husband cannot wait any longer.¡± Yun Shi Yi roughly gasped for air and pried open her small mouth, removing his own member. Before she even had time to react, he pushed her down and in a few movements, stripped her of her clothing.


    In the past, Yun Shi Yi was very gentle and always considerate in bed. But after restraining himself for so many years, he had become insane for the first time and only wanted to desperately have her. ¡°Eldest Cousin!¡± She was a little panicked, but at the next second, her body had been flipped over so that her chest was towards the bed while her back was to him.


    She dizzily felt a stiff thing entering her, and as soon as it did, it slowly started twitching. But he seemed to have taken her enjoyment into account. One hand slid towards her front, looking for her sensitive spot and lightly fiddled with it. A mere while later, his fingertips were completely wet and delicate moans started to trickle from underneath the broad man.


    ¡°Wife, this husband will move now.¡± He lowly notified her, wanting her to make preparations.


    ¡°Nn¡­¡­Lord Husband¡­¡­okay¡­¡­¡± She propped herself on her two arms and raised her butt extremely high, allowing him to demand anything he wanted from her. The thrusting staff inside her became even more enthusiastic.


    A short moment later, her entire body shuddered and an incomprehensible pleasure spread through her. She screamed: ¡°Eldest Cousin, I¡­¡­I¡¯m coming!¡±


    But it was like the man behind her hadn¡¯t heard at all. He clutched her buttocks and his movements became more hurried. Very quickly, she heard his yells and a large gob of scalding liquid flowed inside her.


    But he hadn¡¯t stopped his movements and was still thrusting.


    He had vented his feelings twice but still tightly held and pierced her, as if wanting to recover the beauty he had missed out on these past few years.


    But she no longer had the strength to respond to him. Her upper body was entirely pasted to the bed and only her derriere was arched up high. She felt extremely tired and both her legs also had lost feeling. She had no choice but to pitifully wail: ¡°Eldest Cousin, my¡­¡­my legs are numb.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡­Wife¡­¡­one more time, just one more time¡­¡­¡± Yun Shi Yi then flipped her over, placing her two slender legs on his broad shoulders. Supporting her buttocks, he continued to thrust, only stopping once the fiery liquid inside him had been released.


    Gasping for breath, he looked down at her body, his face filled with happiness. ¡°My lovely wife, I have troubled you. You must be exhausted?¡±


    ¡°Although I¡¯m tired, I¡¯m very happy.¡± Ruan Zhu whispered her response, but her red face gave her away. Even though she felt as if her body was falling apart with four limp limbs and her legs unable to close, she didn¡¯t feel any pain or soreness at all and even felt a kind of unprecedented pleasure.


    He held her as he laid down on the bed, giving her a full body massage with his fingers finding her acupuncture points. After a while, she felt much better and softly recited: ¡°After separation¨Cwe meet in memory; my soul dreams of embracing my Lord. Tonight¨CI clutch a silver light, fearing reunion is but only a dream.¡±[a]


    Ever since our parting, I have always missed you so much. How many times have I dreamt that my soul was with you? Tonight, I looked even more closely with my silver lamp, afraid that our meeting is also fantasy.


    When she had first recited this poem, she had felt there was a kind of melancholy beauty to it. But at the time, she hadn¡¯t ever experienced the pain of being parted from one¡¯s lover. Now, she understood, and reciting the poem made her nose feel sour. Thinking about how he hadn¡¯t been by her side these past few years, she felt especially grieved.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, don¡¯t leave me anymore.¡± She laid in his arms, her entire body feeling warm and cozy. The feeling he gave her was one that the other five men could never provide. ¡°Do you understand? Just like what you said originally¨CNo matter how many men I have, you are the most important one. It really is like that. Maybe you¡¯ve put a spell on me but no one can ever take your place.¡±


    ¡°Silly girl. Originally, I was even scared and on edge, but hearing you say this, I feel reassured.¡± He pulled her closer and smiled. Just like before whenever he was happy, he used his finger to gently tap her nose.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin, Papa returned from Persia and caught wind of your news. He said you had gone to Da Qin¨Cdid you really go there?¡±


    ¡°I did. We only arrived after traveling quite a bit and it was not easy. But Da Qin was not nearly as beautiful nor prosperous as I had imagined. On the contrary, it was very disordered¨Cextremely impoverished and backwards. Some areas that we passed along our way could even be considered primitive. The people did not wear clothing and lived like the early savages. It was only after I left that I realized Tian Chu was the most affluent country and the world¡¯s paradise.¡±


    This was indeed correct. Ruan Zhu was familiar with history and was clear on this.


    At night, over a thousand years ago, cities all over the world were pitch black, and only the cities of China were brilliantly lit. At night, over a thousand years ago, cities all over the world were covered in silence, and only the cities in China moved with the streams of its people, filled with their songs and laughter. A thousand years ago, how big was the disparity between the rest of the world? Over a thousand years ago, there was only China that had major cities exceeding over a million inhabitants.


    In the eleventh century, the largest cities in Europe were the United Kingdom¡¯s London, France¡¯s Paris, and Italy¡¯s Venice and Florence, but the population in these cities were merely in the ten thousand range. In contrast, China¡¯s capital had 1.5 million civilians. Over a thousand years ago, China had six cities with populations over two hundred thousand and forty-six cities over one hundred thousand.


    Over a thousand years ago, the disparity between the rest of the world and China was not only a little gap, nor was it double or several-fold more. A thousand years ago, China was far ahead of the rest of the world.


    ¡°Our Tian Chu¡¯s silk, porcelain, tea, and mirrors can be sold outside for sky-high prices. When I arrived in Da Qin, a bolt of average silk could even be sold for over a thousand gold coins. Zhu¡¯er, do you know of gold coins? It is what the Westerners use as money, with decorative motifs on both sides.¡±


    Ruan Zhu nodded her head. In order to wear the gorgeous silk that came from the East, the ancient European nobles would cruelly force their slaves to perform the most arduous tasks.


    The ancient Europeans did not know how to manufacture porcelain. They only had the very primitive pottery. Upon seeing China¡¯s white jade-like chinaware, they were all surprised by its beauty. Until the Qing dynasty, every time there was a feast and porcelain was used to entertain the guests, the host would assign a servant to each guest, but in all honesty, it was to prevent the visitors from pilfering the dishes.


    ¡°Each item I brought with me could be sold for exorbitant prices, and on our return, the dozen or so large ships were filled with the Westerners¡¯ gold coins, seeds, and also the books that you had previously instructed me to bring back¨Castronomy, science and technology, agriculture and farming, economics, and mathematics. Every time I landed in a new country, I especially collected books on these subjects. Because I did not understand their language, I also brought back a group of translators.¡±


    ¡°Were those translators willing to leave their homelands?¡±


    ¡°I gave them generous offers and allowed them to bring their families along. Quite a few of them were also bought as slaves.¡± Yun Shi Yi smiled. He had not forgotten he was a merchant of low birth status, which is why he had paid more attention to the interest of his country. He wanted to make everyone clearly understand that merchants did not only chase after money; merchants could also serve their country and its people. ¡°Based on the profits I have earned this time, I will be paying enough taxes to equal several years worth of what Tian Chu receives. I also intend to use my money to build a thousand free schools in Tian Chu.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s eyes glistened: ¡°Your idea is wonderful. We are already quite wealthy and having more money is of no importance to us. It is truly best to use the money in exchange for improving environment and reputation.¡±


    ¡°Zhu¡¯er, I brought back chili seeds from Tian Zhu and many beautiful sapphires from Persia for you. En route to Da Qin, I had to detour south for thousands of miles. I took my people to a very primitive land. You surely do not know this, but the people there have such dark skin, like the bottom of pots. With the exception of their white eyes and teeth, they are entirely black. But that area is rich in a particular kind of beautiful gemstone that shines brilliantly with a dazzling light. I brought back quite a few. Once we return, I will show you; you will most definitely like them.¡±


    Ruan Zhu¡¯s large and delicate eyes were filled with a smile. My God! This fool, it was very possible he had reached South Africa and obtained their diamonds. The diamonds of South Africa were famous all over the world. In her past life, she had seen some before in a mall and had truly gasped at their beauty. But she hadn¡¯t had the courage to take a second glance as the attendant¡¯s eyes had been disdainful, causing her to not dare linger.


    Yun Shi Yi and his wife continued to stay in the boat, drifting along with the current. They lived contently on Lan River like spending a honeymoon, completely forgetting the outside world and the many things that needed to be done.


    Guan Ju Villa.


    Zong Zhi¡¯s cold face was turned towards Yun Shi Wei, angry that he hadn¡¯t brought their wife back. As for Min Zhi, his face had long cooled until it was like a block of ice. Jing Yan sat to the side, especially furious towards Yun Shi Wei¡¯s nonchalant attitude.


    Nuan Chun kept silent. As long as it was something his mistress wanted to do, he would support her.


    Zong Zhi no longer glared at Yun Shi Wei and asked everyone: ¡°Who went to the wharf the day the ships arrived in port?¡±


    Everyone shook their heads. What would they go to the wharf for? And, none of them knew Zhu¡¯er would be present that day. The old couple in the Yun manor seemed to have gone to look for their son, but by the time they arrived, Yun Shi Yi had long disappeared.


    Zhi Xi sat next to Zong Zhi and the little child that was like an adult said: ¡°Grandfather and Grandmother went, and I also went too. Uncle Nuan Chun took me there, but I didn¡¯t see Father and didn¡¯t see Mother either as we arrived late. Third Concubine-Father, don¡¯t be so anxious. Mother won¡¯t throw us away. She said the earth was round so no matter which direction one goes, one could always return home.¡±


    Zong Zhi stroked his head, warmth in his voice: ¡°Your mother tells a good story but you must not speak these words outside lest you are mocked by others for being ignorant.¡±


    Zhi Xi blinked: ¡°I think what Mother said is reasonable. Mother says the earth rotates around the sun, not the other way around. While the earth circles around the sun, it continues to rotate, which is why we have the four seasons and day and night. Mother also said that when I grow up to be as big as Father, I can travel across the entire earth by ship and confirm everything for myself.¡±


    Zong Zhi gaped at him, not knowing what was best to say. To him, the words Zhi Xi just spoke of were outrageous.


    ¡°Mother also said the ancients were much smarter and understood the concept of ¡®acting in a way that defeats one¡¯s purpose.¡¯ They purposely went to search for the truth themselves while the people of today only know how to use their ancestors¡¯ works to describe situations and don¡¯t analyze many reasonable arguments. On the contrary, they mock those who do. That is truly the behavior of fools who do not wish to see growth.¡±


    Sweat dripped down from Zong Zhi¡¯s temples. Look at him¨Cwhat kind of woman had he married? All kinds of strange and absurd arguments could be put so clearly and concisely by her.


    ¡°Third Concubine-Father, you don¡¯t believe Mother?¡± Zhi Xi was disappointed. He had always worshiped his mother and believed she understood everything. Even if his mother¡¯s head was sometimes a little muddled and her memory was also not too good, she understood many things that others did not.


    ¡°Even if your Third Father does not believe, your Fourth Father does.¡± Min Zhi stood up and picked up Zhi Xi: ¡°When Zhi Xi grows up, the three of us¨Cyou, your mother, and I¨Cwill personally go see if this world is round. However, I believe your Mother, so let¡¯s tentatively consider the earth as round.¡±


    ¡°Fourth Concubine-Father is the best.¡± Zhi Xi cheered. But after saying that, his brows wrinkled and he added after pondering a bit: ¡°Second Concubine-Father and Third Concubine-Father are also good, Fifth Concubine-Father is also good, and so is Uncle Nuan Chun.¡±


    Min Zhi scratched his nose: ¡°Look at you, unwilling to offend anyone.¡±


    Disdain seeped from Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes: ¡°You actually intend to travel the entire earth by ship?¡±


    The corner of Min Zhi¡¯s mouth curved into a perfect arc and in a graceful manner, he easily responded: ¡°I am only following our wife. Wherever she goes, I go. She better not think of abandoning me.¡±


    Yun Shi Wei chuckled: ¡°If that day really comes to pass, count me in. I can resign from the post of deputy of the Privy Council as long as it continues to be a golden age. I am merely an insignificant general and my presence or lack thereof won¡¯t have any impact on the situation.¡±


    Jing Yan stood up: ¡°Practically each experiment at the Ministry of Agriculture has achieved satisfactory results. Grafts have been done between horned melon and cucumber; pear trees and apple trees; and apples and grapes. Fruit production has increased, they are more resistant to diseases and pests, and the flavor has also improved. Rice fields have also achieved the result of yielding four dan per paddy. When the imperial court saw the benefits, they vigorously supported the plantation industry and a large group of talented individuals emerged. The current Ministry of Agriculture no longer needs me. Although as a man I should have a grand career for my wife and children, I currently desire to have some time off to enjoy life.¡±


    Min Zhi threw Zong Zhi a taunting glance: ¡°As for you, if you still want to be heir apparent, then straighten your mind; don¡¯t let your imagination run wild. You can¡¯t entirely possess both the country and the beauty.¡±


    Zong Zhi snorted: ¡°When have I ever said I desired to be the heir apparent? If you like it, you should have the position instead.¡±


    Min Zhi didn¡¯t even spare him a glance: ¡°Power and wealth are the same as dung to me. If I coveted those things, I would have long gone to assume position of Duke at Nan Ling. Would there have been a need for old man Sima to beat his chest and stamp his feet every damn day?¡±


    Half a month later, Yun Shi Yi returned to Guan Ju Villa with Ruan Zhu.


    Several years later, at the Lan River wharf, ten large ships lined up one by one and left the harbor in succession, sailing towards the open seas. On a luxurious and enormous ship was Yun Shi Yi and Ruan Zhu, in addition to her five husbands and children¡­¡­


    This time, they intended to circle around the entire world.


    ** The end. After this, I¡¯ll write two extras to present their married lives many years after.

 Chapter 113

    I stepped inside Ming Xiang Cui Yu, handing over the emerald jadeite I had brought back from Myanmar to the shop¡¯s owner, Nuan Chun. Sketching out a design, I outlined what it was that I wanted, and he listened in earnest, picking up the drawing for a closer look before calling a master artisan over and repeating my words.


    After Liu Fei Xu¡¯s death, Ming Xiang Cui Yu declined and went through numerous hands. The shop¡¯s name changed again and again, but it never really profited.


    By chance, I had just returned from touring the world with my family. As we had brought back quite a few precious stones, I decided to buy the shop along with its craftsmen. The reason why it is called ¡®Ming Xiang Cui Yu¡¯ is because the name has a reputation spanning over a hundred years. After one month of renovations, the store reopened, with Nuan Chun as its owner and Ruan Yu taking over his previous position as the head of the embroidery department.


    I had already gifted Mei Yan Ying Ying Chu to Ruan Yu, so I might as well also give her the embroidery department. My current focus was not on money but on the emotions that money could not buy.


    The master artisan withdrew, and I glanced at Nuan Chun, whose eyes were filled with deep affection. I couldn¡¯t help but to give a small laugh. Yesterday, he had asked for me twice. Was he still not satisfied? I stretched my hand into his trousers, slowly touching him. Not too long after, a tent erected.


    I raised my head to look at him. The thirty-two year old Nuan Chun was full of a manly air, and the small mustache on his upper lip was definitely worth a second look. He was originally very beautiful¨Cto the degree that he could be appointed his mistress¡¯s bedwarmer at a young age and assigned to serve her in her boudoir¨Cso it wasn¡¯t strange that the current him was a little hard to take. He had matured over the years and become steadier as his age increased, giving him a masculine demeanor.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, do you want a child? If you do, I can consider giving you one.¡± Escorts did not have the right to ask their mistress for children, but I wanted to give him one; give him a son that was beautiful like him. A daughter would also be fine; all so that he could have someone to depend on when elderly.


    Nuan Chun did not respond, and instead, pushed his hands inside my lapel, cupping a breast with each hand. Because it had only been two months since I had given birth to a child for Jing Yan, milk started flowing a little after he started massaging, soaking his hands. He picked me up, making me sit on top of a table, before removing my top, allowing my full mounds to leap out.


    Perhaps because I continued to practice yoga daily, the me who was nearly thirty years old still had a graceful figure with a chest that still retained the beauty of maidenhood. Tender and delicate¨Calways able to arouse the love of men.


    Nuan Chun lowered his head to take one of them into his mouth, lightly sucking the liquid inside. After all of these years, his oral technique had become extremely good. I felt myself becoming damp down there, a little ticklish. Limbs turning numb, I lowly moaned: ¡°En¡­¡­Nuan Chun¡­¡­down there, too¡­¡­¡±


    Nuan Chun turned around to lock the door, then threw off his fetters. His robust body didn¡¯t have the slightest trace of unwanted fat, and his wheat-colored skin was scattered with traces of a man¡¯s breath. He stripped me, separating my legs, then knelt underneath to press a kiss upwards. The tip of his tongue repeatedly stroked back and forth while two of his fingers entered, slowly tormenting me. I trembled as current-like shivers zapped through me. Staring at the head underneath me, I saw him swallow without pause.


    Gasping for breath, I grabbed his hair. More fluid leaked and was caught by him.


    ¡°Ahh!¡­¡­Nuan Chun¡­¡­I¡¯m coming!¡­¡­¡± I screamed. My entire body shaking, I gasped for air while tightly clutching his head.


    Nuan Chun straightened and changed my position so that I was sprawled on top of the table. An extremely hard object entered me. My body instinctively clamped down, and I raised my white butt high, supporting myself against the table with both hands as I, little by little, catered to his movements¡­¡­


    Who knows when, but I came to love being taken from behind. I loved when they simultaneously used their hands to play with my front as they entered me. In this regard, they always satisfied me completely.


    After a wild and passionate round, Nuan Chun poured his fiery liquid inside me.


    I weakly collapsed on top of the table, my entire body still trembling before I was enveloped in a hug, his voice sounding from next to my ear: ¡°Eldest Miss, this slave does not want any children. Truly. Since young, this slave has served Eldest Miss, and in fact, has thought of Eldest Miss as this one¡¯s own child. This slave having only Eldest Miss as a child is enough and does not wish for a second one. If there are too many children, this slave would not be able to attend to you.¡±


    ¡°You fool. Actually, I¡¯ve always thought of you as a father. Ai, Nuan Chun, I¡¯m quite fond of you, ah.¡± I hadn¡¯t been given any paternal love in my past life, and though Ruan Zi Xu treated me very well, I couldn¡¯t sense that feeling from him. I came to understand what paternal love was from Shi Yi, and also felt the same sensation from Nuan Chun. Shi Yi¡¯s paternal love was generous as a mountain; Nuan Chun¡¯s was warm as the wind.


    Nuan Chun smiled, his eyes dazzling and full of emotion: ¡°Eldest Miss, we grew up together. How many years has it been now? I will not demand anything of you and will not do so in the future, either. My only request is to slowly accompany you through life. I do not wish to die before you, nor do I wish to die after you. I hope¡­¡­I hope to be able to accompany you in death and lie in the same coffin, our hands clasped together¡­¡­¡± If he were to die first, then he would wait on Nai He Bridge for her. If she were to die first, he would end his own life prematurely.


    ¡°You idiot, how could I abandon you?¡± My heart moved, and I turned my head to smile at him.


    He disentangled himself from my body and used a brocade handkerchief to clean up the remnants of our passionate lovemaking. Parting my legs, he wiped between them for a very long time, fingers fiddling with the pink petals for a while before reluctantly moving away. Picking up the clothes on the side, he helped me put on each one and then rearranged my disheveled hair.


    He lightly said: ¡°Tonight, you will be Head Yun¡¯s, and it will be a long while before I can have you again.¡±


    Hearing him mention Yun Shi Yi, my eyes misted over with longing. Eldest Cousin had gone to Chu Zhou to open a bank, saying he would be gone for half a month. A letter had arrived and its contents had stated he would arrive tonight. It seems he really valued keeping to his word


    At noon, I was just about to leave Ming Xiang Cui Yu to breastfeed my two young sons when, to my surprise, Xiao Xi Zi came over to report: ¡°Niang niang, a lady called Yu Lian Hua has brought her husband to Min Xiang Cui Yi for employment. The manager¡¯s words were to ask for instruction from Sixth Master.¡±


    Although Nuan Chun was an escort, I absolutely wouldn¡¯t allow the servants to be disrespectful and had given him the title of ¡®Sixth Master.¡¯


    Yu Lian Hua. Wasn¡¯t she the woman who sold chastity belts? What did she come here for? It¡¯s not as if Ming Xiang Cui Yu did business with chastity belts. Don¡¯t tell me¨Cshe¡¯s been having a hard time so decided to change to making jewelry?


    ¡°Have her enter!¡±


    Yu Lian Hua¡¯s conduct was vulgar, and she also had a bit of a crude appearance, but to the me who had become accustomed to seeing nobility, she was much more amusing. When Xiao Zhou Zi led Yu Lian Hua inside, I became shocked because I recognized the man by her side. He was one of the Four Great Masters¨CFeng Qing Bai.


    The year we went to You Xiang Pavilion to unsuccessfully search for Shen Zong Yun, I nearly succumbed to Wei Jia¡¯s scheme and Nuan Chun injured his hand. If Feng Qing Bai hadn¡¯t used a chair to bash Wei Jia¡¯s head, I might not even be in this world right now. After the incident, I repaid my life¡¯s savior and had the authorities remove him from his brothel¡¯s registry so that he could leave his trade and marry. I also asked Xing Yun to send him some silver, but the response I received was that Feng Qing Bai only accepted freedom and wouldn¡¯t accept the money no matter what.


    Recalling these past events, I held a bit of regret towards him. Who could have thought he would end up with this woman who sold chastity belts? Ai, it really was just like the saying: A good man can¡¯t find a good wife; an idle man weds¡­¡­Ahem, Feng Qing Bai definitely wasn¡¯t an ¡®idle man.¡¯[a]


    Yu Lian Hua¡¯s eyes brightened, and she hollered: ¡°Little Sister Ruan, it¡¯s you, ah! That¡¯s great! I can¡¯t live on like this anymore so you gotta give me a bite to eat. My family¡¯s chastity belt shop is done for. Ai, you know about Liu Fei Xu, right? He got infected with a lecherous disease and died and didn¡¯t even tell anyone, causing us to also be implicated. My Pa has been banished to an army post outside the Great Wall and my shop was seized¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°This small one humbly pays respects to the Princess of Qi.¡± Feng Qing Bai¡¯s clear voice rang out, as if to remind his wife that a member of the imperial clan was in front of her. He pulled Yu Lian Hua down with him as he performed the rites.


    Baffled, Yu Lian Hua swiveled her head left to right. Not seeing any other females present, she blurted out: ¡°Princess of Qi? What Princess of Qi? Why don¡¯t I see her? Is she a ghost?¡± Feng Qing Bai jumped in fright and hastily gave his wife a meaningful glance.


    I let them rise and asked them to have a seat before calling for Xiao Xi Zi to bring in the tea. Yu Lian Hua continued to blankly stare at me with eyes as wide as brass bells like I was a monster.


    ¡°Why did you think of Ming Xiang Cui Yu to look for work?¡± I smiled, directing my question towards Feng Qing Bai. Towards the one who saved my life, I was still very courteous.


    ¡°Because Manager Yu had worked here before. At the time, Liu Fei Xu was still alive. After his death, Manager Yu was implicated and banished outside the Great Wall.¡± Feng Qing Bai glanced at his still-stunned-silly wife, his eyes flashing with light: ¡°This small one has forgotten to say that Manager Yu is my father-in-law. This small one wed Lian Hua not long after leaving You Xiang Pavilion. Before our marriage, Lian Hua¡¯s principal husband had passed away from sickness; thus, I logically succeeded his position as principal husband.¡±


    This was truly the female version of ¡®The Oil Vendor and the Queen of Flowers,¡¯ with Yu Lian Hua as the oil vendor and Feng Qing Bai as the queen of flowers.[b] A fresh flower was inserted into a pile of dung. Poor Feng Qing Bai.


    I sincerely felt sorry for him, but maybe he was happy? It could be seen from the expressions in his eyes. The year I transmigrated, I came across Yu Lian Hua by the Lan River and heard her speak of the Four Great Masters. She greatly worshiped every single one of them and was a faithful fan. Now that she had received one of them, she surely must treasure him, right?


    In this situation, it was reasonable for me to give Feng Qing Bai a job.


    ¡°Nuan Chun, what positions are left in the store that are higher? Arrange one for Mister Feng and don¡¯t make it too difficult.¡±


    Nuan Chun distinctly remembered what had happened that year in You Xiang Pavilion and had a good impression of Feng Qing Bai: ¡°I can dismiss the accountant and arrange for Mister Feng to manage the ledgers.¡±


    ¡°Many thanks to niang niang, many thanks to Mister Nuan Chun.¡± Feng Qing Bai stood up and cupped his hands in salute.


    ¡°If you are currently facing difficulties, you may collect a portion of your wages in advance. That¡¯s that, then! Xiao Xi Zi, lead Mister Feng and Madam Feng out.¡±


    Feng Qing Bai performed the rites once again before pulling Yu Lian Hua outside. Yu Lian Hua was still dazed, but when she reached the door, a wail suddenly came from her throat and she kneeled in front of me: ¡°Little¨Cuh, whatchamacallit, niang niang¨Cgive me a position in the Prince of Qi¡¯s manor to do odd jobs, okay! Looking after the yard, protecting the residence, cooking¨CI can do all of that. I¡¯ll definitely work properly and won¡¯t humiliate you.¡±


    I stiffened my expression, deliberately not giving her any face: ¡°Yu Lian Hua, my princely residence is not lacking in unskilled laborers and has even less of a need for chefs and sentries. You should leave!¡±


    Feng Qing Bai was utterly embarrassed. His wife often lost his face outside, and he had grown accustomed to it. But her being so unbridled in front of the Princess of Qi truly made his face burn with shame, and he quickly pulled her hand, dragging her out.


    I waited until they had all left before turning towards Nuan Chun: ¡°You should treat Mister Feng just like any other employee, but you must remember that one sheng of rice brings gratefulness; one dou of rice brings hatred. If you are thinking of his past actions and wish to repay him, then simply have him smoothly and steadily work in Ming Xiang Cui Yu until the end. If you want him to leave earlier, then regard him as an ancestor and provide for him. Let him eat well, dress well, and receive a high salary without needing to work. As the days go by, favor will give birth to arrogance; thus, when problems arise, he would have to leave even if he was unwilling, and no one would denounce you for being in the wrong.¡±


    ¡°This slave understands, Eldest Miss.¡±


    ¡°Ai, Nuan Chun, you grew up in the rear courtyard so there¡¯s lots of things you still have to learn, ah!¡± I threw myself into his arms. This chest that felt so paternal and brotherly always made me want to cling to it. I stroked him: ¡°Nuan Chun, what should we do? I want you again!¡±


    [a] Complete saying is: ºÃººÎÞºÃÆÞ£¬ÀÁººÈ¢»¨Ö¦ A good man can¡¯t find a good wife; an idle fellow weds a beauty.


    [b] ¡¶ÙuÓÍÀɪšÕ¼»¨¿ý The Oil Vendor and the Queen of Flowers ¡·is a short story by Feng Meng Long (Ming dynasty). According to the Chinese Wikipedia entry, the FL is separated from her family and sold as a prostitute, where she uses her talents to become the Queen of Flowers (a nickname for famous courtesans/beauties). She meets the ML, who is an oil vendor but pretends to be a noble in order to spend the night with her. He later saves her and to repay him, she vows to marry him, using her hard-earned money to buy her freedom and they live happily ever after.

 Chapter 114

    WARNING: The author bashes Japan (& other countries, but mostly Japan) a lot in this chapter. I have included a warning before the majority of it and a tldr at the end of the section if you wish to skip it.


    I had a ceremonial cape draped over my entire body and my head supported a phoenix crown weighing three catties. It painfully pressed down and I felt like my neck could snap at any moment. Under the protection of an assembly of respectful palace eunuchs, I took calm and collected steps with the distinctive gracefulness and noble bearing of an empress into Xuan De Hall.


    The New Year¡¯s banquet was currently being held in the main hall with civil and military officials neatly sitting on either side. Upon my arrival, they all stood up to salute.


    Xuanyuan Zong Zhi¡¯s head bore the golden dragon crown and he sported the dazzling dragon robes, his entire person radiating with the dignity of the emperor He faintly smiled at my entrance and rose from the Dragon Throne to lead me to it, where we sat down, side by side.


    I don¡¯t remember when it was established, but the Empress of Tian Chu had the right to engage in politics and her authority in morning court was no less than the Emperor¡¯s.


    Half a year ago when our large household had returned from traveling the world, we were greeted with an imperial edict from the old emperor regarding inheritance. Despite never taking the position of Crown Prince, Zong Zhi had been directly appointed from his title as the Prince of Qi to the eminent status of the Emperor. I naturally then became Empress.


    Shi Yi¡¯s position as the principal husband could not be shaken. The old Emperor had finally understood that and conceded. Thus, Zong Zhi became the sole emperor in the history of Tian Chu to ascend the throne as a concubine. But no one dared to look down on him. Shortly after his ascension, he punished an entire faction of dishonest courtiers. From then on, whatever the Emperor ordered, his loyal subjects obeyed.


    Xuan De Hall was luxuriant, with sixty-four large chandeliers suspended from the ceiling that illuminated the hall as if it was day. Indeed, it was a dazzling array of light that painted the room in glorious splendor.


    Imperial banquets were naturally grand, breathtaking, refined, and luxurious; otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t be able to display the imperial family¡¯s prestige and honor.


    I caught sight of Yun Shi Yi among the subjects. He was currently watching me with eyes expressing his affection. Lightly smiling at him, my eyes wandered. Min Zhi, Shi Wei, Jing Yan¨Cthey were also all among the crowd. Jing Yan was currently the prime minister, Shi Wei was the head of the Bureau of Military Affairs, and Min Zhi had entered the Hall of Government Affairs.[a]


    After I became Empress, Shi Yi seldom went on long voyages. Even if he had to travel overseas, it would only be to the several small countries near the coast. He was currently the one who called the shots in Tian Chu¡¯s markets, with wealth that rivaled a nation¡¯s. But he donated the majority of it to charity and was highly regarded in both Tian Chu and the surrounding countries.


    ¡°Greetings to His Imperial Majesty and Her Imperial Majesty.¡± The leads were present. Under the loud cry of the palace eunuch in charge of ceremony and etiquette, all the attendees stood up and performed the rites.


    ¡°Rise, my dear officials, and be seated!¡± Zong Zhi¡¯s crisp voice rang out, but it seemed to contain a gloominess and depth that revealed a venerated emperor¡¯s aura amidst its indifference.


    I glanced at the delicacies on the table, my lips faintly pressing into a lovely smile. Ever since Shi Yi led the merchants to call for plants to be grown in greenhouses, the average commoner could also eat fresh vegetables in the wintry twelfth lunar month.


    I saw quite a few court officials swallow their saliva, most likely hungry. But the Son of Heaven hadn¡¯t touched his chopsticks thus no one dared to have a taste. I wanted to discreetly remind Zong Zhi, but he directed some words towards Xiao Xi Zi, who was by his side: ¡°The foreign envoys may have their audience now.¡±


    Every New Year, summoning the foreign delegates for an audience was a mandatory event at the imperial banquet.


    ¡°All envoys may have an audience with His Imperial Majesty of the Celestial Empire, the holy Son of Heaven.¡± Xiao Xi Zi¡¯s shrill voice passed down the Emperor¡¯s order, where it then traveled from the imperial guards on duty by the entrance to post after post, passing the order farther and farther¡­¡­


    Approximately half a quarter hour later, a group of several hundred people entered the main hall. It seemed they had rehearsed this before as they walked in a very orderly fashion. All sorts of clothing could be seen in the formation, just like an exhibition on the dress of minority and ethnic groups.


    Tian Chu¡¯s diplomatic relations had widened considerably with the strengthening of the age of navigation. Our envoys had spread to most of the nations on this continent and traveled to Fusang in the east, and to Da Qin, South Africa, and even the Americas in the west. Nearly all races could be found in this hall.


    ¡°Long live His Imperial Majesty, the holy Son of Heaven, long live niang niang.¡± The envoys shouted in stiff Mandarin and uniformly kneeled.


    Zong Zhi swept his eyes over the dense crowd before him a few times before indifferently ordering: ¡°All may rise!¡±


    ¡°Many thanks to His Imperial Majesty, the holy Son of Heaven. Many thanks to niang niang. Long live, long live.¡± The envoys had all been trained in etiquette by the Ministry of Rites and deeply bowed with lowered heads, their attitude reverent and respectful, not even daring to flick their eyes upwards for a quick glance.


    From that, I could see how impressive Tian Chu was, and couldn¡¯t help but to sigh. If modern China was half as domineering as Tian Chu was, then they wouldn¡¯t be fighting over the Diao Yu Islands with Japan for decades. The year I transmigrated, the problem was still unresolved.[b]


    Following that was the presentation of gifts brought by each country¡¯s respective envoys. Xiao Xi Zi called out each nation in turn from a list in his hands.


    ¡°The envoy from Gan Pu offers twenty pieces of high-quality emerald jadeite and ten pieces of red jadeite. The envoy from Xian Luo offers a gold pagoda with nine sections and a depiction of Guan Yin carved from jade. The envoy from Gao Li offers ten tiger hides, fifty fine Mongolian horses¡­¡­¡±


    Hearing Gao Li mentioned, I recalled that modern-day South Korea had a thicker skin than the land, claiming the Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and the four great Chinese inventions were theirs, and that they were the origin of humans in the Eastern Hemisphere and the primogenitor of ancient Chinese civilization.[c] Being shameless to this degree was truly sickening.


    ¡°The envoy of the country of Wo offers twenty Wo swords¡­¡­¡±


    Hearing the country of Wo mentioned, I was startled for it was actually Japan. Ancient Japan was poor, backwards, and covered in tattoos, just like savages. Despite receiving assistance from the Tang dynasty, they were located in the far corner of the East Sea so transportation and communication was inconvenient. Their situation had improved, it wasn¡¯t enough.


    This Wo blade was actually a technique from the Tang dynasty, and the sharpness of a Tang sword was unmatched. In my original space-time, the Tang blade technique vanished during the wars of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms, but became famous in the islands of Japan. Later in history, how many Chinese did the Japanese slaughter with the weapons of the Tang dynasty?!


    Xiao Xi Zi finished reading from the gift list and deferentially bowed before the Emperor and Empress.


    ¡°To all delegates, if you have a matter to discuss, please speak frankly. Those without issues, please withdraw to the side hall and enjoy the banquet.¡± Zong Zhi gave me a glance. Perhaps seeing that I wasn¡¯t in too good of a mood, he spoke in a manner that was almost dismissive.


    ***If you don¡¯t want to read the author insult Japan through RZ, skip this section.***


    (It¡¯s long. Really long.)


    But it was hard for the envoys to meet with the emperor, so how could they have nothing to say? The first to harden his resolve and step forward was the envoy of Wo. Performing the rites, his clear voice sounded: ¡°This humble envoy of Wo, Official Xiao Quan salutes His Majesty, the Holy Son of Heaven and salutes niang niang. Since the formation of the dynasty, my humble country has been a close friend of the Celestial Empire and claimed itself as loyal subjects of the Celestial Empire. Presently, this son is facing difficulty and beseeches our mother nation for assistance.¡±


    Zong Zhi was taken aback: ¡°What troubles are you facing?¡±


    Hearing the Emperor¡¯s question, Official Xiao Quan eagerly lurched forward, buttocks jolting. He only stopped when Xiao Zhou Zi barked out Impudent! and then continued in an overly fawning manner: ¡°Your Majesty, niang niang, my humble country urgently needs experts and books regarding farming, medicine, architecture, and other fields from the Celestial Empire. The virtues of the holy Son of Heaven are widely spread, lighting up ten thousand li. His Majesty will surely not allow the people of my humble country to suffer.¡±


    The more I heard, the more furious I became. Our ancestors had allowed these ungrateful bastards to learn our advanced techniques and theories and then they turned around and killed us.


    ¡°Quiet!¡± I didn¡¯t wait for Zong Zhi to speak and coldly denied Official Xiao Quan: ¡°How could such a lowly official like you be allowed to act so presumptuously in my Tian Chu¡¯s Great Hall? Someone come! Have him expelled.¡±


    The Wo envoy was nothing to look at. At less than 1.6 meters tall and with bow legs, he looked utterly wretched. I knew from reading my past world¡¯s history books that the majority of Japanese prior to World War II generally had this kind of trait. Later, after seeing Westerners drink milk to enhance their characteristics, the Japanese Prime Minister had his countrymen drink milk every day to improve their constitutions. As expected, after a few decades, the bow-legged defect became rare in the Japan.


    Please forgive me for judging someone by their appearance, but no one would be happy when confronted with a country that was formerly their enemy.


    The imperial guards knew my command was tantamount to one issued by Zong Zhi and stepped forward from their posts to force Xiao Quan out without waiting for the sacred order to be issued.


    ¡°Niang niang, what mistake has this foreign subject committed? Please state it clearly, do not let this foreign subject be made to exit in confusion.¡± Xiao Quan shouted and knelt on the ground, refusing to rise.


    I halted the guards and rebuked the Wo envoy: ¡°You should have looked for a mirror before you came. A repugnant appearance like yours with a head like a buck and eyes like a mouse[d] can still represent a country? It is evident you are looking down on my Tian Chu. To then dare be so impudent¨Chave him taken out and beaten a hundred times.¡±


    Xiao Quan straightforwardly cried out his injustices: ¡°It turns out niang niang dislikes this foreign subject for being ugly. Confucius says: Judging someone by their appearance means losing Zi Yu.[e] This foreign subject has reached the conclusion that this subject does not have Zi Yu¡¯s great talents, but this subject is very familiar with the Book of Songs and the Book of Histories and proficient in many schools of thought. Hoping niang niang will see that this foreign subject¡¯s heart is full of loyalty towards the Celestial Empire and pardon this subject. If niang niang thinks this subject is too ugly, this subject will change to a beautiful one to greet niang niang tomorrow.¡±


    Fury overwhelmed me, making my head spin. This damned Japanese devil was too inhuman. Did he think I¡¯d go into heat at the sight of an attractive man and rush to take him into my harem? His goddamned island was filled with either female prostitutes or male gigolos, absolutely filthy!


    Zong Zhi held my hand underneath the table and whispered: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, there is no need to anger yourself over this insolent man. I will have him punished later as an outlet for your anger and then send him back to Wo.¡±


    The other envoys regretted that Xiao Quan had scrambled to be the first to respond to the holy Son of Heaven and were currently full of envy. Seeing him suffer to this extent, schadenfreude oozed from their eyes.


    I noticed the gentle smile Shi Yi was directing towards me. My heart immediately warmed and the rage that had overtaken me mostly snuffed out.


    Xiao Quan was not dumb. Realizing that he had spoken wrongly, he hastily kowtowed in trepidation.


    I cleared my throat: ¡°Listen, Xiao Quan. Since the previous dynasty, your country has received quite a few benefits from my Tian Chu, taking a generous amount of medical knowledge, military tactics, agricultural methods and skills, and even artisans. Now even your country¡¯s capital imitates the architecture of my Celestial Empire. It is because we have given you too much that we cannot give any more.¡±


    Xiao Quan was stunned and forgot to be afraid: ¡°Niang niang, the subjects of my humble country needs your distinguished nation¡¯s medical skills to treat diseases and also needs the method to your high-yield rice paddies. The Celestial Empire is the mother nation; how could you look on as your people starve?¡±


    I was surprised: ¡°How would our Tian Chu look on as your country¡¯s people starve? Xiao Quan, why are you speaking nonsense with clear eyes? Tian Chu merchant trips carry foodstuffs, silk, porcelain, tea leaves, and a great deal of luxury goods to Wo each year. What are your eyes for?¡±


    ¡°But, but niang niang, those need to be bought?¡± Xiao Quan mumbled. Not knowing how to respond, he unexpectedly spoke foolishly.


    All of the court ministers bristled with anger, and Shi Wei coldly sneered: ¡°Do you mean Wo should reap without sowing and have the Celestial Empire provide offerings?¡±


    I deadpanned: ¡°Your country is rich in gold and using gold to exchange for foodstuffs is proper. What Sir Yun said is reasonable. Or do you wish for my Tian Chu to raise you for nothing?¡±


    Xiao Quan quickly responded: ¡°No, no, my humble country only needs books on medicine and agriculture. We only wish to fill our bellies and treat illnesses. Hoping the Celestial Empire can send us doctors and craftsmen.¡±


    Yun Shi Yi stood up. As a merchant, he put his interests first. As long as his country was happy and prosperous, what did the fates of the people of other countries mean to him? If the productivity of other countries improved and their farming, porcelain, and silk industries received remarkable growth, then who would he sell his merchandise to?


    ¡°Your Majesty, niang niang, the Wo envoy¡¯s demands are unreasonable. This subject has traveled to Wo before. The commoners are covered with tattoos and they are rough in demeanor, ignorant of the arts and sciences, and eat raw meat. Why not have them study the way of Confucius and enlighten them with virtuous conduct? We could give them the Four Books and Five Classics of Confucianism, Buddhist scriptures, and send monks to Wo to preach them Buddhist teachings, delivering all of them from suffering.¡±


    Eldest Cousin really knew my thoughts! I cast an appreciative glance at Yun Shi Yi.


    ¡°What do my dear ministers think?¡± Zong Zhi cast a glance at all of the civil and military ministers present. Although he was questioning them, it was merely a routine. All that were in attendance were experienced. Who would be willing to set himself against the Empress for a tiny little country?


    ¡°Your Majesty is benevolent. This subject has no opinion.¡± The officials all voiced their praise.


    Zong Zhi indifferently announced: ¡°The matter is settled. Wo envoy, zhen will not give you agricultural texts or other such works. However, zhen will grant you five thousand Confucian classics and five thousand Buddhist scriptures. Urge your countrymen to learn how to conduct themselves with integrity from Confucius and Buddha.¡±


    Sweat dripped off Xiao Quan¡¯s face in his anxiety and he continuously used his sleeve to wipe it: ¡°Your Majesty, niang niang, Confucian classics and Buddhist scriptures are very good, but they cannot be compared to how valuable food and medicine are. My humble country requires texts on industry and craftsmanship and also needs a large amount of artisans and experts¡­¡­¡±


    Tian Chu¡¯s craftsmen and professionals weren¡¯t only coveted by Wo. Out of all of the foreign envoys present, not a single one wouldn¡¯t want them. But they were not as shameless as Xiao Quan, nor did they have something wrong with their brains like he did. I was baffled that Wo had sent such a buffoon to Tian Chu as their ambassador, but that was something that didn¡¯t concern me.


    Xiao Quan was still dilly-dallying: ¡°If¡­¡­if this envoy cannot obtain your distinguished nation¡¯s technology, I will surely be punished by my Lord when I return. I hope Your Majesty and niang niang can be merciful.¡±


    Zong Zhi¡¯s face sank: ¡°Your words are clearly accusing zhen and the Empress for not being benevolent enough?¡±


    Overwhelmed, Xiao Quan hastily tried to explain himself: ¡°No¡­¡­no¡­¡­¡±


    Wang Jing Yan stood up: ¡°Your Majesty, the envoy of Wo has spoken rudely, dared to look down on the Confucian classics Your Majesty has bestowed, and is deserving of death. It is unsuitable to see blood during the New Year celebration so he should be pulled outside and given twenty blows, then driven out of Tian Chu.¡±


    Shi Wei crushed a tea cup that was previously on the table into shards with his hand and jumped up: ¡°We should directly drag out this offensive envoy and send him to the Court of Judicature and Revision. Have him sentenced to be in exile three thousand li away on the charge of holding the royal clan in contempt and have him work at Da Jue Mountain.¡±


    Zong Zhi¡¯s eyes were cold and he indifferently interjected: ¡°No need for that trouble. Throw him into death row in Shun Tian Hall and have him stay there indefinitely. Guards, arrest him.¡±


    Xiao Quan turned white with fear and in his haste, forgot to choose his words well: ¡°You can¡¯t have such disregard for human life! I am the envoy of Wo. If our two countries are going to war, you can¡¯t kill the messenger. Ah no, I don¡¯t mean war. You guys¡­¡­you guys can¡¯t treat me like this.¡±


    Min Zhi abruptly stood up. Not waiting for the imperial guards, he stalked over to Xiao Quan in a matter of a few steps and grabbed him by the back of his collar like a chick, lifting him up, before striding towards the entrance, where Xiao Quan resembled a ball as he flew through the doors.


    Xuan De Hall finally calmed down. No matter if it was the ancient era or modern times, the Japs were all extremely repulsive. I had to find a time to thoroughly get rid of this hidden danger. Let¡¯s see if they would then still dare to noisily argue over the Diao Yu Islands in the future.


    Zong Zhi swept his eyes over the foreign envoys still in the main hall and nonchalantly decreed: ¡°Today, the Wo envoy was utterly discourteous and zhen has decided to teach them a tiny lesson. Military Affairs Commissioner Sir Yun, heed my command. Zhen appoints you as Grand General. Set off with two hundred thousand elite soldiers to Wo and raze them. Are you willing?¡±


    ¡°This subject is willing.¡± Shi Wei accepted the command in a loud voice.


    I smiled. The Japs of this era were incredibly weak! Sending two hundred thousand elite troops? Oh my god, I don¡¯t even think the entirety of the old and young in Wo even added up to this number.


    According to historical data, the Japanese civil war that occurred during the Tang and Song dynasties was merely a confrontation between several thousand people versus a little over ten thousand. Compare that to the Three Kingdoms, where battles picked at random would have troops numbering in the hundred thousands. Even at his weakest, Liu Bei still had fifty thousand soldiers, ah! He was against eight hundred thousand troops at the Battle of Chi Bi. The two situations were simply worlds apart.


    ***End of the skip. tldr: The envoy of Japan (Wo, in this time period) asks for books on medicine and agriculture. Being prejudiced from hating Japan & finding the envoy ugly, RZ refuses him. Things escalate, YSY advises ZZ to give them books on Confucianism and Buddhism instead; WJY and YSW call for the Wo envoy to be beaten. ZZ decides to throw the envoy in prison indefinitely with MZ physically tossing him out the hall. ZZ then declares war on Wo and tells YSW to raze the country to the ground.***


    The delegates looked on in a daze as, because of such a small matter, the army had been sent to eliminate another country. Although they still wanted to speak, they all hurried to close their mouths, afraid they would utter something taboo. It was a small matter if they themself died, but implicating their home country would be a larger matter.


    ¡°Take them to the side hall to enjoy the banquet.¡± Zong Zhi waved his hand at the envoys. As it was a banquet held for the court of Tian Chu, the representatives of these small countries were not eligible to participate.


    The diplomats didn¡¯t even dare to breathe deeply as they respectfully headed towards the side hall.


    The curtain finally closed on the foreign envoys¡¯ audience with the holy Son of Heaven, and Zong Zhi called for the banquet to start.


    The nation was currently at peace and the ruler and his ministers shared the same joy, drinking wine until deep into the night, all enjoying themselves fully before naturally dispersing.


    I was a little drunk and Zong Zhi carried me back to Shu Ning Palace, presenting me with his red lips. He kissed me for a while: ¡°Zhu¡¯er, tonight should be Min Zhi¡¯s turn. How have you forgotten?¡±


    ¡°Because I want you.¡± I sweetly smiled.


    ¡°You said it yourself. I will not be courteous then.¡±


    Caught in another kiss from Zong Zhi, I was dazedly carried into the bathroom where clothes were thrown off and I found myself soaking inside the white marble pool.


    ¡°My Empress is still this beautiful!¡±


    Zong Zhi softly sighed, seating me on his legs before lowering his head to my chest.


    ¡°En¡­¡­this side too¡­¡­¡± A burst of pleasure spread through me, and my hands wrapped around him.


    A palace eunuch bowed as he entered, placing a bowl full of peeled lychee on the marble platform. ¡°Zhu¡¯er, feed me.¡± He placed a lychee in my mouth and then pushed his forward.


    Recently, my men have become enchanted with me feeding them with my mouth. I often didn¡¯t even have time to swallow anything delicious before it was snatched by them.


    ¡°Your Majesty, it seems it is not your turn today?¡± Min Zhi entered the bathroom and spoke rudely to Zong Zhi. But the latter didn¡¯t pay him any attention and continued to kiss me. We had a rule. In private, all could be said or done and Zong Zhi could not use his status as Emperor to pressure the others.


    Min Zhi took off his clothes and entered the bath, lifting me from Zong Zhi¡¯s lap. ¡°Zhu¡¯er is mine tonight. Even if you are the Emperor, you must abide by the rules.¡±


    Zong Zhi snorted: ¡°Zhen is the Emperor. You do not need to tell me how to act.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty means we should all congregate tonight?¡± Yun Shi Yi stepped inside. Accompanying him was Shi Wei and Jing Yan, with even Nuan Chun silently following behind.


    Yun Shi Yi had a unique status. As the Empress¡¯s principal husband, no one dared to obstruct him inside the palace. The several men released themselves from their fetters in succession and entered the pool.


    ¡°Eldest Cousin!¡± I aimed a sweet smile at Shi Yi and crawled over to him, looping my arms around his neck to give him a kiss. Min Zhi wasn¡¯t pleased and held me from behind, one of his hands roaming my body. Soon after, an extremely stiff rod entered me, slowly twitching inside.


    I raised my butt, allowing that hard thing inside me to start sending tingles down my body. I felt incredibly good and could never have enough of this feeling. My chest felt tight¨CZong Zhi and Shi Wei had both took one of my breasts into their mouths. Jing Yan and Nuan Chun also crowded around, stroking my shoulders and legs from time to time.


    I was still kissing my most beloved Eldest Cousin. I held him even tighter as delicate moans spilled from my mouth and into his.


    Until Min Zhi poured his boiling essence inside me¡­¡­Shi Yi then pulled me firmly into his lap and used his thick enthusiasm to fill my emptiness. Zong Zhi moved behind me, fondling my body, before turning my head for a long kiss.


    At the same time I received such pleasure, I brought them happiness.


    The six men showered me with their love, one after the other. I savored their limitless affection and also reciprocated. Living like this was so beautiful. Having transmigrated was a true blessing.


    [a] ÕþÊÂÌÃ Hall of Government Affairs, essentially the cabinet or state council


    [b] The Diao Yu Islands (aka ¡®Senkaku Islands¡¯ by the Japanese, ¡®Pinnacle Islands¡¯ by the West) is a group of islands located near China, Japan, and Taiwan. It¡¯s hotly disputed between China v Japan and Japan v Taiwan as to who owns the island, with Japan currently having control. (Wikipedia)


    [c] Dragon Boat Festival (China) = Dano (Korea), celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month each year. Mid-Autumn Festival (China) = Chuseok (Korea), celebrated on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month. Both of these festivals are also celebrated by many other Asian countries. Four great Chinese inventions are paper, printing, gunpowder, and magnetic compasses. I don¡¯t know anything about the other claims in this paragraph.


    [d] Head like a buck = head is small and pointed; Eyes like a mouse = eyes are small and round


    [e] Zi Yu was a disciple of Confucius that the latter thought was very ugly so didn¡¯t properly teach. He later ended up being a very moral person and started his own school, and Confucius regretted judging him by his appearance. (Wikipedia)