ã€ŠReturn of the Villain&#x27;s wifeã€‹


 Shen Huyin was truly generous.

    This spring, the Da Cheng region experienced warmer weather than ever before. As a result, the trees and grass woke up from their sleep earlier than usual. They competed to bloom, filling the entire region with beautiful flowers.

    In the capital, the Shen family, an old scholarly family, was no different from the other mansions in the city, adorned with blooming flowers. Dozens of white pear trees in the garden held up their bouquets of blossoms, emitting a fragrant scent in the gentle breeze. Tempting the bumblebees to come and investigate.

    Behind the Moon Circle gate, a maid in a light green uniform jogged into the large house belonging to Huyin, the head of the household. When she reached the top of the stairs, she immediately headed to her mistress''s room.

    The luxurious bedroom was decorated with pale pink silk and expensive furniture made of huanghua wood ( mangrove wood ). Meng Zhilu sat sipping tea on a four-poster bed intricately carved with floral patterns. Soft sunlight shone through the window panes, making the atmosphere in the bedroom cozy and comfortable. Today, she wore peach blossom-colored clothes woven from the fine silk of the southern city, with the sleeves and skirt embroidered with gold tinsel in the shape of delicate pear petals. Her hair was styled in a low bun, secured with gold pins adorned with large pearls. Judging by her elegant attire and sparkling eyes, it was clear she eagerly awaited someone''s arrival.

    Suddenly, the maid walked into the room. She bowed humbly and immediately informed her mistress of the news. ¡°Dear Huyin, Master Shen¡¯s carriage has passed through the city gate right now. He should be back at the estate within two hours¡±

    Meng Zhilu''s eyes shone with joy. The moment that she had been waiting for is finally arrived. It was not a waste of effort that her father had paid more than 10,000 taels to the administrative department. In exchange for his early return home. Ten thousand taels was a considerable bribe, but it was worth it.

    Meng Zhilu slowly lifted the teacup and took another sip, her lips curving into a thin smile. ¡°Very good,¡± she said in a smooth voice. ¡°And has the butler made all the preparations?¡±

    The maid bowed her head and replied, ¡°Of course, Huyin. The butler led the servants to stand in line to welcome their master since morning. The atmosphere is bustling. Everyone praises Huyin for your generous gift.¡±  The maid''s voice sounded as excited as the people outside, likely due to the five taels of silver Meng Zhilu had given them.

    Hearing that, Meng Zhilu got up from the bed with a graceful posture, her bright red lips raised into a mocking smile. Her beautiful eyes sparkled like diamonds when she spoke of the elders in the family, ¡°What about Elder Tai Tai and the elder Huyin, have those two arrived in my great hall yet?¡± She asked in a smooth voice, raising her hand and moving a gold pin on her bunch.

    The maid replied in a smooth voice, ¡°The two elders arrived just a moment ago.¡±

    Elder Tai Tai her name is Nie Shi, is Shen Zhongting''s paternal grandmother, a respected member of the Shen family. She had married the former family leader two generations ago and had a son named Shen Zhongxin, who was the father of Shen Zhongting, and passed away many years ago.

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    Elder Huyin, Shen Zhongting''s mother, was a 45-year-old woman. She became the head daughter-in-law 30 years ago and had a strained relationship with Meng Zhilu ever since, due to her manipulative nature and tendency to interfere in others'' affairs. By now, the old grandmother was likely sitting in the main house with her head held high.

    Meng Zhilu thought mockingly. She gently placed the teacup on the table before standing up and arranging her sleeves. ¡°Ruyi has prepared tea and snacks to welcome them, hasn''t she? Did you use the silver needle tea leaves as I instructed?¡± she said in a cold voice, before walking to the brass mirror on the dressing table opposite the bed and then squinting her eyes at her clothes again.

    ¡°It''s been taken care of, Huyin. Please rest assured,¡± a close servant named Pi Qiao replied, then came in to help arrange the lady boss¡¯s clothes.

    Meng Zhilu looked at her reflection in the mirror. Her beautiful eyes widened slightly when she fell upon another hairpin adorning her hair bun. This hairpin was made of white jade highly quality carved at the end in the shape of a white flower. The center was decorated with beautiful water pearls. This item was a reward she had received the year before, after persuading her father to spend more than 500,000 taels of her money to renovate a large house for Shen Zhongting''s mother and grandmother.

    At the back of the estate, located on the north side of the Moon Circle gate, an area occupying a quarter of the property housed eight wooden houses. Each house was a hundred years old and in a somewhat dilapidated condition, despite having been restored by many generations of owners.

    Upon completing the house repairs, she received an heirloom hairpin from her mother-in-law as a reward and a token of gratitude for her dedication.

    Though undeniably beautiful, but every time she gazed at it, memories of the past resurfaced, haunting her...

    In her previous life, she had diligently cared for Shen Zhongting''s mother and grandmother, fulfilling his wishes before he left for the border. Yet, her mother-in-law never appreciated her efforts. No matter how well she performed, Elder Huyin always found fault, scolding her and even instructing the servants to subtly undermine her at every opportunity. The elder remained fixated on finding a young wife to warm her son''s bed, leaving Meng Zhilu perpetually traumatized, bullied, and under immense pressure.

    When she was brutally attacked by Sen Zhongting with a blade that slashed down her body. At that time, she cried out for her life, but the black-hearted mother-in-law stood and watched with cruel eyes, cursing her mercilessly. Her tears ran down her cheeks against the blood that spilled from the wounds all over her body. Her heart shattered like a smashed tile. A sense of despair overwhelmed the mind like a person who was left adrift in the open sea.

    In her past life, she had sacrificed everything for the Shen family, meticulously caring for them as Shen Zhongting had implored. In return, they inflicted unimaginable pain and suffering on her. As she lay dying, she vowed with bitter resentment that if given another chance, she would forge a new path, never again allowing herself to be exploited or defeated by their evil.

    Fate had granted her this second chance, a chance to fulfill her vow. The naive and yielding Meng Zhilu of yesterday was gone, replaced by a woman of unwavering resolve.

    ¡°Alright, let''s go,¡± Meng Zhilu declared, her eyes gleaming with determination and a confident smile gracing her lips. She gently adjusted the ornate hairpin in her hair before gracefully exiting the room, traversing the polished wooden balcony and passing through the layers of elegant curtains.

 (part2)

    Upon reaching the main hall, Meng Zhilu bowed respectfully to Elder Huyin and Elder Tai Tai, seated in the chairs of honor. A thin smile played on her lips as she addressed the two elderly women, her voice soft yet tinged with disdain. "Zhilu greets Mother-in-law and Grandmother. Please forgive my tardiness; I hope I haven''t kept you waiting too long."

    Elder Huyin raised her eyebrows. The sharp eyes that used to stare at Meng Zhilu were filled with hatred, and she said sarcastically in a mocking tone. "Hmm, Do you think what time is it? Did you still see old people like me in your mind?" Her tone was cold, indicating her great displeasure with this daughter-in-law.

    When reprimanded, Meng Zhilu pursed her lips together. In fact, she had always been mindful of her mother-in-law''s tendency to find fault. But to maintain peace, she had to feign a smile.

    Elder Tai Tai sitting next to her sighed lightly in exhaustion, glancing at her daughter-in-law with a hint of astonishment at her nitpicking. In truth, although she felt sympathy for her granddaughter-in-law, there was little she could do. So she offered Meng Zhilu an escape by waving her hand to dismiss her.

    When she saw the old woman offering her an out, Why Meng Zhilu wouldn''t take it? She lowered her head to conceal her cold eyes and stepped back to stand beside her mother-in-law.

    Elder Huyin''s expression made the atmosphere in the room change to uncomfortable. Silence pervaded the hall. The old Huyin looked at his daughter-in-law. The face of a woman in her 40s who was painted with white cosmetics and red lips was full of arrogance. She stretched her lips slightly, showing that she was not very pleased. However, no matter how much she hated Meng Zhilu, she couldn''t do more when she had to be in front of her mother-in-law.

    All the eyes of the female relatives sitting in the room looked at Meng Zhilu sympathetically.

    The silence continued for a long time, until after almost two-quarters of an hour, the sound of several pairs of footsteps sounded along the corridor leading to the hall. When the large door opened, a man and a woman entered. All the eyes of the people in the room instinctively focused on the two young people. Especially the woman in a red robe who walks behind a young family leader named Sen Zhongting.

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    More than ten female relatives sitting in the room turned to each other, talking loudly in surprise. Because Shen Zhongting hadn''t come alone; he had brought a woman with him. That woman had a beautiful oval face, and her eyes are big were as round as apricot seed, dazzling like starlight. She was dressed in an eye-catching bright red silk dress and wore her hair in the style of a married woman, adorned with just the right amount of jewelry.

    Meng Zhiru looked up at the woman in red with incomprehensible eyes. Before turning to look at Shen Zhongting, who was kneeling in front of the two elders. His proportionate body trembled; his voice mixed with a variety of emotions. "Grandma, Mother I am back now" Tears welled up in the corners of his eyes, lending a touch of vulnerability to his handsome face. It helps to drive a clean white face to look gentler.

    Elder Huyin stood up and reached out to support Shen Zhongting. "Shouyi, my dear son, you''re back" Her voice trembled with love and longing, echoing her son''s own. Shouyi is a nickname she uses for her only son.

    Shen Zhongting replied, sounding remorseful. "Mother, I''m back. I''m so sorry that for two years I haven''t been able to care for you. Please forgive me"

    Elder Huyin fought back sobs, tears welling up in her eyes. She reached down to help her son to his feet. "Who told you to take a job so far away like that" she said with a sigh of relief. "How could I be angry with you? Let''s sit and talk" She gestured towards the first chair on the right-hand side of the Elder Tai Tai.

    After helping her son to the chair, she sat down gracefully. She turned to look at the woman in red who seemed to be waiting. "And who is this you''ve brought with you?" she asked her son curiously, her eyes sweeping over the woman from head to toe.

    Shen Zhongting said to his mother with a smile, pride shining in his eyes. "Mother, this is Li Lianshuang. She is the daughter of the former sheriff, and she helped me greatly when I first arrived in Fuling City" He turned and beckoned to the woman. "Shuang Er Come..."

    Hearing this, Li Lianshuang smiled even more radiantly, then gracefully knelt before the two older women and spoke softly. "Your daughter-in-law greets Grandmother and Mother"

    Her self-proclaimed title of ''daughter-in-law'' caused the people in the hall to exchange astonished glances. Some even looked at her with disapproval.

    Meng Zhilu sneered inwardly. ''Huh. She truly lives up to her reputation. Calling herself a daughter-in-law before even being married. How shameless. She is worthy of being a prostitute''

 (part3)

    Her shameless words, Even Shen Zhongting wore a strained expression. He feared his mother would criticize Li Lianshuang for their impropriety, so he quickly sought to protect his lover by changing the subject.

    "Mom "The reason why I brought Lianshuang back today is that she carries my child. I was suddenly ordered to return and couldn''t bear to leave her alone during childbirth... I hope you will accept her as your daughter" Shen Zhongting said, his voice trembling as he pleaded with his mother.

    The news of Li Lianshuang''s pregnancy falling out of her son''s mouth makes Elder Huyin like a heavy stone falling into her heart. Her face changed color, her eyes widened, and she stared at Shen Zhongting as if she couldn''t believe it, causing Li Lianshuang to lower her head and not dare to make eye contact with her mother-in-law. Her face was flushed as if she was nervous.

    The expressions of the two elders made the atmosphere in the room suddenly quiet as if in a tomb, and all eyes were fixed on Elder Huyin and Elder Tai Tai.

    The elder Huyin was stunned for a moment. Then later, she spoke in a low voice to her son. "What''s the matter, you''re pregnant like that, what good news is this?" she said, then turning to look at Elder Tai Tai who sitting next to gauge her mother-in-law''s reaction.

    Meng Zhilu who had been waiting for this moment for a long time. When the opportunity comes, why does she let it go of waste? She rushed forward and helped Li Lianshuang to get up with a soft and sweet expression. "Please rise, my young sister. It''s not good for you to kneel for long while pregnant; it could harm the baby. Come here, sit beside our master" Her face radiated feigned happiness.

    "Thank you very much, sister. You are so kind to me, I don''t know how to repay your kindness" Li Lianshuang said gratefully, her beautiful eyes on a sweet face sparkling.

    The hypocrisy of the arch-enemy that is displayed that showed made Meng Zhilu scoff inwardly. ''What a pretender. Do you think I''ll fall for your tricks again? This time, there is no way to lose''

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    In her past life, blinded by naivete, she had fallen for Li Lianshuang''s innocent act and suffered a cruel death. But this reborn Meng Zhilu was no longer that weak woman. She had returned from the abyss, a demon fueled by vengeance, determined to destroy this treacherous couple and avenge her past suffering and the shame Shen Zhongting had inflicted upon her.

    Meng Zhilu clenched her hands tightly, her heart filled with contempt for her enemy. "No, Sister, you don''t need to worry. I''m the one who should thank you for taking such good care of my husband and carrying his heir. I''m truly grateful"

    Outwardly, Meng Zhilu radiated joy. Her lips were painted a vibrant red, curved into a sweet smile that reached her eyes. This convincing display of sincerity led the women in the hall to praise Meng Zhilu''s boundless generosity while inwardly criticizing Li Lianshuang''s deceitful nature. ''How dare such a lowly woman follow the master back to the capital? She must be skilled in the arts of seduction. Shame on her!''

    ''Ewe! ''She''s a toad lusting after swan meat. And the master also, never knows before that he has truly inferior taste in choosing woman!''

    ''This woman must only be good at seduction. Her behavior must be truly appalling to have ensnared our master like this. He''s so blinded by her that he''s forgotten the virtuous Huyin.'' The women and their relatives inwardly condemned Li Lianshuang with venomous thoughts.

    Their behavior made Li Lianshuang boil with frustration. As a newcomer, she could only suppress her resentment. If Shen Zhongting could not persuade his mother and grandmother to elevate her to a suitable wife, when would she achieve her goal? She swore that in the future when she did, she would enjoy turning the tables on these women.

    With this thought in mind, she rubbed her palm over her still-flat belly while gazing at Shen Zhongting with pleading eyes, silently urging him to broach the subject of their wedding ceremony with the elders.

    When Shen Zhongting saw Li Lianshuang''s eyes were sending a signal. He turned to his mother and spoke in a firm and determined tone.

    "Mother, Grandma actually, I just remembered something important. While in Fuling City, Lianshuang and I already participated in a marriage ceremony before Heaven and Earth. The entire city recognizes her as my main wife. Now that we''ve returned, I''d like to ask Mother and Zhilu to help arrange a formal ceremony here as well. She''s already more than three months pregnant, and we wouldn''t want to delay any longer. I want the eldest heir of the Shen family to be born with the full rights and dignity of a legitimate child of Shen''s Huyin. Mother, please allow me to take Lianshuang as my main wife, equal in status to Meng Zhilu"

 (end of chapter)

    Meng Zhilu clenched her hands tightly, her heart filled with contempt for her enemy. ¡°No, Sister, you don''t need to worry. I''m the one who should thank you for taking such good care of my husband and carrying his heir. I''m truly grateful¡±

    Outwardly, Meng Zhilu radiated joy. Her lips were painted a vibrant red, curved into a sweet smile that reached her eyes. This convincing display of sincerity led the women in the hall to praise Meng Zhilu''s boundless generosity while inwardly criticizing Li Lianshuang''s deceitful nature. ''How dare such a lowly woman follow the master back to the capital? She must be skilled in the arts of seduction. Shame on her!''

    ''Ewe! ''She''s a toad lusting after swan meat. And the master also, never knows before that he has truly inferior taste in choosing woman!''

    ''This woman must only be good at seduction. Her behavior must be truly appalling to have ensnared our master like this. He''s so blinded by her that he''s forgotten the virtuous Huyin.'' The women and their relatives inwardly condemned Li Lianshuang with venomous thoughts.

    Their behavior made Li Lianshuang boil with frustration. As a newcomer, she could only suppress her resentment. If Shen Zhongting could not persuade his mother and grandmother to elevate her to a suitable wife, when would she achieve her goal? She swore that in the future when she did, she would enjoy turning the tables on these women.

    With this thought in mind, she rubbed her palm over her still-flat belly while gazing at Shen Zhongting with pleading eyes, silently urging him to broach the subject of their wedding ceremony with the elders.

    When Shen Zhongting saw Li Lianshuang''s eyes were sending a signal. He turned to his mother and spoke in a firm and determined tone.

    ¡°Mother, Grandma actually, I just remembered something important. While in Fuling City, Lianshuang and I already participated in a marriage ceremony before Heaven and Earth. The entire city recognizes her as my main wife. Now that we''ve returned, I''d like to ask Mother and Zhilu to help arrange a formal ceremony here as well. She''s already more than three months pregnant, and we wouldn''t want to delay any longer. I want the eldest heir of the Shen family to be born with the full rights and dignity of a legitimate child of Shen''s Huyin. Mother, please allow me to take Lianshuang as my main wife, equal in status to Meng Zhilu¡±

    Shen Zhongting''s words struck the listeners like a thunderbolt, causing a wave of shock, surprise, and worries into the minds of everyone. It was unthinkable to hear such a scandalous proposal from the esteemed royal tutor of the Royal Student Bureau, a man under the patronage of the emperor of Da Cheng.

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    His words made Huyin''s face even colored. Others in the hall were silent,  some secretly looking at each other.

    Even Elder Tai Tai, who had remained silent until now, could no longer bear it. She reproached him loud, ¡°How can that be possible? You are not the head of the Li family from Fuling City. You have no right to take two principal main wives. If you force this, wouldn''t it be a violation of the law? You are the royal tutor. If this matter becomes public, won''t it ruin your reputation and career!?¡±

    Shen Zhongting argued, ¡°But we can keep it a family matter, all right? We don''t have to inform the Registration Department, Grandmother? As long as we keep this a secret within the estate, there won''t be a problem. If we need to interact with outsiders, we can simply refer to her as a mistress¡±

    In two months, Shen Zhongting would assume the position of royal tutor at the Da Cheng Royal College, granting him the status of a main fourth-rank nobleman. He believed this method to solve his problem the same than many nobles liked to do.

    But Elder Tai Tai remained firmly opposed to her grandson''s idea. Shen Zhongting''s role as a royal tutor, responsible for educating the children of the aristocracy in knowledge and morals, made him a highly respected figure. Therefore, he had to be careful not to degrade his honor, but Shen Zhongting thought of doing random and risky things such as deceiving the royal court. She couldn''t accept it.

    ¡°I won''t agree with you, in this world, if paper can''t wrap the fire, so this matter can''t be covered up forever. Besides, if the Meng clan discovers this, how will the Shen clan explain itself?¡± She spoke seriously.

    Shen Zhongting''s reply is immediate, his tone is full of decisiveness. ¡°I will silence every servant in this house. They will be executed, so there''s no need to fear the matter reaching outsiders, let alone the Meng family.¡± His tone was chilling, his eyes glinting with ruthlessness as he spoke of preserving secret.

    His words filled the atmosphere in the room as if shrouded in the fog of death. In the hearts of the servants like a sword that pierced their hearts, fear spread throughout the room like the shadow of the mystery. They let out a wail. Then left themselves and sat on their knees, crying and begging for their lives. Even the close servant girl attending Li Lianshuang joined in the desperate pleas.

    Elder Tai Tai almost wanted to raise their sticks and strike Shen Zhongting to match her nephew''s loss of his mind. Just because of one woman, her grandson even wanted to kill all the servants in the room. This Shen Zhongting must have gone crazy.

    She called out her nephew''s full name. ¡°Shen Zhongting! are you crazy? As the former 19th Shen Huyin, I don''t allow these servants to be executed. If you still don''t listen to my protests, I''ll go beat the drums in front of the Ta Li Shrine, then we will see can you still lead the Shen family?¡± She yelled at Shen Zhongting. The expression on her face showed great anger. Her actions made the Elder Huyin even look pale. She feels like she is sitting on fire.

 Equal Wife

    Ideally of the Da Cheng empire, there can only be one principal wife. However, the ancestors allowed families without heirs to take a second wife. If the Shen family wishes to elevate Li Lianshuang to the rank of principal wife, equal to Meng Zhilu, they can do so under three conditions. First, Li Lianshuang must be the daughter of a third-rank noble or higher. Second, Shen Zhongting must be the heir to both the Shen family and the Li family to perform a joint marriage ceremony before Heaven and Earth. Third, Shen Zhongting must have an elder brother who has no heirs.

    But Shen Zhongting is an only child. Furthermore, he is not the heir to the Li family of Fuling City, who were merely minor officials just a small sheriff, equivalent to seventh-rank nobles.

    Additionally, within three months of the wedding ceremony, the bride''s name must be submitted to the Household Registration Office of the Department of Administration, designating her as the principal wife, called Huyin. Any other wives who do not undergo these steps are considered concubines, regardless of their position within the household. Concubines are not officially registered with the government; their status is managed internally within the family.

    But this time, Shen Zhongting was determined to break all the rules. In addition to violating the law, his actions were an insult to both Meng Zhilu and the Meng family. If Meng Zhilu were to take legal action against the Shen family, Shen Zhongting''s future would be ruined, and the family name would be forever tarnished.

    When persuading Elder Tai Tai failed, Shen Zhongting looked pleadingly at his mother, who was displeased and unhappy.

    Although Elder Huyin wanted to help her only son, she couldn''t openly support his reckless plan, which risked breaking the law. So, she tried to reason with Shen Zhongting, urging him to reconsider.

    ¡°My dear son, next month, I will hold a grand tea ceremony for her and invite many guests to witness it. As for the baby, once born, he will be raised as Zhilu''s child. This way, your son will have a legitimate heir born to the principal wife. It''s a beneficial arrangement for everyone. What do you think?¡±

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    She addressed her son, then turned to her daughter-in-law, her eyes filled with expectation. ¡°What do you say, Zhilu?¡± She gently squeezed Meng Zhilu''s delicate hand, subtly pressuring her to agree.

    Meng Zhilu pretended to be happy, then nodded her head slightly. ¡°As you wish, Mother, I agree with you.¡± Her voice was soft, her eyes downcast to the floor to hide her emotions.

    Li Lianshuang felt a surge of fury upon hearing her mother-in-law''s words. The child in her womb was hers; why should she give it to Meng Zhilu? Moreover, her hopes of marrying into the Shen family with honor were being dashed by her mother-in-law''s foolish plan. She opened her mouth to protest but was silenced by Shen Zhongting''s firm grip on her hand. Li Lianshuang could only swallow her words, her anger simmering beneath the surface.

    Li Lianshuang''s forced composure brought a surge of satisfaction to Meng Zhilu. She laughed triumphantly in her mind. ¡®Haha, Shen Zhongting is not the Li family heir, nor does he have any brothers. He''s ineligible to have two principal wives. Li Lianshuang, you fool. Did you really think you could usurp my position? Keep dreaming!¡¯

    Elder Huyin''s actions further intensified the tension in the room.

    Shen Zhongting pleaded on behalf of his beloved wife. ¡°Mother, please review again, I believe that no mother in this world wants to give up her child to someone else to raise. And I also wanted Li Lianshuang to be my main wife. I don''t want to give our child to Meng Zhilu. I beg you, Mother, please...¡±

    His words escalated the tension. Elder Tai Tai grimaced, and Elder Huyin exclaimed in frustration, "Hu! Why are you being so stubborn?"

    ¡°Mother, please,¡± Shen Zhongting begged.

    Finally, Meng Zhilu seized the opportunity to intervene and end the dispute. She would never allow Li Lianshuang to share her status. In this life, she would never let that bitch have an equal status with her. ¡°Husband, please listen to Mother, her thoughts are good to all parties. I didn''t want to take a child away from the mother''s bosom either. After giving birth, you only give her child to be my child in my name. As for the tea ceremony proposed by the mothers, when the day to send sedan chairs to pick up the bride, I would add ten more boxes of dowries to her. Please don''t worry that she will be at a disadvantage. Is this good or not?¡±

 (part2)

    Meng Zhilu''s proposal seemed like a reasonable and beneficial solution for all parties. Li Lianshuang would gain both wealth and status and her child, if male, would become Shen Zhongting''s heir. As the child grew, they would naturally be grateful to their birth mother. The only one seemingly disadvantaged was Meng Zhilu.

    Her kindness made the servants and those present at the incident exclaim in disbelief again. Elder Tai Tai nodded with admiration at the thought of their granddaughter-in-law. Li Lianshuang looked as if she wanted to cry, unable to tell whether she should be happy or sad. But the servants all guessed that she must be secretly delighted, gaining ten additional dowry chests and a child who could potentially inherit the family fortune, even if she wouldn''t be the principal wife.

    ¡°Zhilu, you''re so understanding. Your solution is quite good¡± Elder Huyin said, feigning appreciation. She raised Meng Zhilu''s hand in a gesture of gratitude for her daughter-in-law''s supposed sacrifice.

    When Elder Huyin finished speaking, Meng Zhilu gently withdrew her hand from her mother-in-law''s grasp. She then took a key from her chest and turned to her trusted servant standing behind her. ¡°Pi Qiao, go to my personal storage room and retrieve the third chest from the left side of the first cabinet. I will give it to Miss Li as a welcome gift¡±

    Her generosity amplified the admiration in everyone''s eyes. They practically revered Meng Zhilu as a saint. Such a virtuous woman was indeed rare. Shen Zhongting was so infatuated with his mistress that he failed to appreciate his wife''s exceptional qualities. Not only was she not resentful, but she was also kind and generous to them both. Anyone who would discard such a wife must be truly foolish.

    Pi Qiao curtseyed in acknowledgment and hurried away. Then she returned shortly with a small wooden chest, which she carefully presented to her Lady Boss.

    Meng Zhilu took the chest, opened it, and offered it to Li Lianshuang. ¡°This is a small welcome gift, Sister. Please accept it.¡±

    When everyone saw the contents of the wooden chest, their eyes widened in surprise. Even Shen Zhongting raised his eyebrows in astonishment. He hadn''t expected Meng Zhilu to be so generous as to gift such precious jade to his mistress.

    Elder Huyin was inwardly displeased to see her daughter-in-law bestow such an expensive gift upon Li Lianshuang, whom she considered undeserving. Her base is a greedy person. So, she knew her daughter-in-law''s weakness for kindness and hoped to exploit it.

    She wanted that item, so she pretended to feign surprise, she exclaimed, ¡°Oh my god! Isn''t this Zheng Yang Gong''s green jade? Look at the exquisite red rubies adorning it on Pomegranate! Is it truly appropriate to give such a precious gift for a mere first meeting?¡±

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    The green jade from Zhengyang City is renowned for its beauty. As for the red rubies, more than a hundred are in existence. Each ruby on it is worth at least 500 taels. Isn''t it excessive to give such a treasure to a mere concubine''s son?

    And it seems that Shen Zhongting knows his mother''s thoughts. So, he turned to Li Lianshuang and said to his beloved, who was still staring at the things in her eyes without blinking. ¡°Shuang''er, thank Shen Huyin.¡±

    Li Lianshuang eagerly responded, ¡°Shuang''er is deeply grateful for Sister''s kindness. Thank you so much for this gift.¡± Her voice was filled with joy, all traces of her earlier frustration forgotten as she beheld the magnificent jade pomegranate, the size of a fist, exquisitely carved and adorned with sparkling red gemstones. She reached out to take it from Pi Qiao''s hands.

    But then, a sharp pain pierced both of Li Lianshuang''s palms, causing her to gasp in shock.

    ¡°Ah!¡± she cried out, instinctively jerking her hand. The precious pomegranate slipped from her grasp and shattered on the floor.

    ¡°Smash!¡±

    ¡°What was that? How clumsy can you be!¡± Elder Huyin shouted, rounding on Li Lianshuang in fury.

    ¡°Oh, it''s ruined!¡± Elder Huyin cried, her expression filled with dismay. She summoned several maids to help gather the scattered fragments of jade and rubies. Inwardly, she lamented the loss of Meng Zhilu''s precious gift. Glaring at Li Lianshuang, she spat out accusations in a venomous tone. ¡°Are your hands crippled? Can''t you even hold onto something properly? You''re so useless, and yet you still dare to make demands!¡±

    Li Lianshuang''s face paled under the onslaught of insults. ¡°Mother, I didn''t mean to drop it. I felt a sudden, sharp pain in my hands as if hundreds of needles were pricking me, so¡­¡± She held out her hands, her voice trembling.

    Elder Huyin said angrily ¡°Pi Qiao held that wooden chest for a long time, yet found no needle. Look at the servants, has any of them found the hundred needles you claimed fell to the ground? All we see are the rubies and jade fragments you had dropped!¡±

    Scolding her, she directed a dissatisfied expression at her daughter-in-law. Then, turning to Pi Qiao, she said, ¡°You go and grab that wooden chest to show me. Is there a needle embedded in it, as she claims?¡±

    Pi Qiao obeyed. She walked in, picked up the wooden chest that had fallen at Li Lianshuang''s feet, and presented it to Elder Huyin.

    Of course, the wooden chest was devoid of any needle, despite Li Lianshuang''s claim of hundreds.

    Elder Huyin stroked the bottom of the wood chest with her hands, then turned to look at Li Lianshuang, her eyes full with anger

    Li Lianshuang¡¯s face paled, her gaze alternating in shock between her mother-in-law''s white hands and the wooden chest. She had exactly remembered, that moment, she felt a prick, as if a needle had pierced her hand from beneath the wooden chest. she was sure that both of her hands were pricked by the needle.

    The expressions on their faces made Meng Zhiru secretly laugh. The hundred needles Li Lianshuang spoke of were a trap she had set. She had ordered her close servant to apply frost scales from the Pungma tree (nettle with thin, needle-like hairs that cause a burning pain upon contact, removable with heat or water). This weed has countless sharp, thin spines like ice crystals, covering its stem and leaves. Pi Qiao sprinkled these onto the jade pomegranate before being brought to. When Li Lianshuang touched them, she therefore suffered pain, causing a stinging sensation. Then the heat of her hand melted all tiny spines. Those stuck on the jade pomegranate''s surface had likely dissolved long ago due to the air''s warmth outside the wooden chest. Leave no evidence for arrest, Because Li Lianshuang hadn''t touched any actual real needles.

 (part3)

    The ensuing chaos made Elder Tai Tai sigh in disgust. The old woman shook her head and asked her close maids, to help her back to her chambers. ¡°Yu mama, Chao''er, take me back to my house¡±

    Seeing her mother-in-law rise, Elder Huyin feigned concern, saying, ¡°Mother, why the rush? Won''t you stay a little longer?¡± She stood and moved to support her mother-in-law, but the old woman waved her away.

    ¡°No, I''m tired and wish to rest. You may chat with your son and daughter-in-law. There''s no need to assist me.¡± With that, Elder Tai Tai departed with her servants, leaving. Elder Huyin standing there, upset by her mother-in-law''s ignorance.

    Meng Zhilu raised her sleeves to hide her sneering smile, laughing lightly in her mind, satisfied that today''s plan had started beautifully. She knew that getting rid of Li Lianshuang''s power was only the first step. Her revenge is not over. In her previous life, Shen Zhongting pushed for the appointment of his mistress to be a main wife, with the same status as her. She was coerced from all sides, forcing her to agree, which made Li Lianshuang live with honor and power in this place on an equal footing with. This allows that bitch to manipulate the people in Shen''s Mansion and bought all hearts of the servants to join. So, she was easily betrayed and met a tragic end.

    This life, she regained it by cutting off the power in the hands of the woman who has a mind like a poisonous snake, suppressing Li Lianshuang''s freedom. But this was merely the first step in her quest for vengeance. She wanted more: to reclaim the Meng family heirloom adorning the neck of that harlot. The jade pendant was not just a treasure; it symbolized the Meng family''s honor and pride.

    Her gaze fell upon the bright green jade pendant hanging from Li Lianshuang''s neck. It was a Meng family heirloom, passed down for generations until it fell into her hands. Before Shen Zhongting''s journey to Fuling City, she was the one who wore that jade on his neck. To think it now adorned a harlot! How could Shen Zhongting be so cruel as to give away her cherished possession? She would reclaim her jade!

    Meng Zhilu gazed out the hall window at the bright sky. She knew the path of revenge would be long and arduous, but the memories of her past life fueled her determination. She would not allow Li Lianshuang or anyone else to harm her again. She would reclaim everything: her power, her honor, and the pride she deserved as a main wife. With renewed resolve, Meng Zhilu turned and walked towards her mother-in-law, reaching out to take her hand.

    ¡°Mother, don''t be angry. She is just the daughter of a low-ranking official who grew up in the countryside. Her manners may be limited. I will teach her more, and it is not too late to improve. Please forgive her.¡±

    Meng Zhilu''s sarcastic words stung Li Lianshuang, who felt deeply resentful. She twisted her face in displeasure, ready to retort, but Shen Zhongting, fearing an escalation, stroked her back to soothe her anger. Offending Meng Zhilu was unwise; she might reconsider allowing Li Lianshuang to become his concubine.

    Shen Zhongting considered intervening, but Meng Zhilu spoke first, addressing Li Lianshuang, ¡°You must not worry about the jade pomegranate, I shall replace it with a new one, but in exchange for your jade pendant. Would you be acceptable?¡±

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    Then she turned to her close servant, who instructed her to fetch another wooden chest from the back of the room, where her other confidante servant, Ru Yi, stood guard. ¡°Pi Qiao, bring the wood chest containing the golden peach tree here, and present it to Miss Li¡±

    At the mention of the golden peach tree, Elder Huyin''s eyes widened in surprise. Meng Zhilu was the daughter of the Meng family''s principal a main wife. The Mengs were prominent in Jiangnan City, a rich part of this kingdom, their wealth and influence spanning generations. Meng Zhilu''s dowry had included hundreds of chests, one of which contained this treasure. Her trove held vast riches: cash, bills of exchange, property deeds, and even mansions in a renowned southern resort town. The golden tree itself, glimpsed when she''d opened the dowry chests, was likely worth at least fifty thousand taels. How could such a treasure be gifted to a mere sheriff''s daughter?

    She wanted to please her daughter-in-law in case Meng Zhiru changed his mind and gave the tree to herself. So, she went to Li Lianshuang and then blamed her. ¡°It is just a jade pomegranate fruit, but you still have no wisdom to hold it well, so how this golden tree will be saved, lest it be damaged in vain, besides, you have already obtained the jade ruby pomegranate as a welcome gift, but you have broken it completely. So, for the jade pendant on your neck, I will give it to Zilu as a reward.¡± When she finished speaking, she snatched the jade from Li Lianshuang''s neck and placed it in Meng Zhilu''s hand.

    Li Lianshuang couldn''t help but frown at her mother-in-law''s swift action.

    Shenzhongting said, ¡°Mother please don¡¯t do...¡±

    Elder Huyin turned to her son, her voice full of upset. ¡°You needn''t defend her. You''re a scholar, well-educated, yet you choose such a woman as a wife. She''s unmarried but already pregnant, demanding equal status as your wife. You''re so infatuated, that you''ve lost all reason because of her. If word of this spreads, our Shen family will be the subject of endless gossip, and your reputation will be irreparably damaged¡±

    ¡°Besides, why fuss over a mere piece of jade pendant? Give it to your wife as a reward for her generosity in offering the jade pomegranate fruit as a welcome gift.¡± Her voice rose, displeasure evident. Her only son was unhappy.

    Shen Zhongting, unable to refute his mother''s reprimand, scowled.

    Elder Huyin glanced at her son with unhappiness, but she observed her son''s frustration but ignored it and then stated her intentions. ¡°As for the golden peach tree she doesn''t need to take it. I''ll carve a piece of that pomegranate jade as a hair band ornament for your woman. I''ll cover the cost of the carving myself.¡± she said, feigning disappointment.

    Shen Zhongting yearned to object, but fear held him back. He glanced at the golden peach tree in Pi Qiao''s hands, then looked at Meng Zhilu, silently urging her to give it to Li Lianshuang as he''d intended.

    Meng Zhilu pretended to smile. She nodded to Sen Zhongting as if she understood. Instead, she did the opposite by turning to Elder Huyin. ¡°daughter-in-law, thank you to Mother for giving this jade pendant to me¡± She said after a brief pause, then a moment later, she took the golden peach tree in the wooden chest from Pi Qiao''s hand and handed it to her mother-in-law.

    ¡°If you intend to craft a hairpin for Miss Li as a first-meeting gift, then let this tree be a present from me to you, Mother please accept it.¡±

    Her actions made Shen Zhongting blush, and angry. He ordered her to give the golden tree to the woman he loved, but Meng Zhiru did the opposite.

    ''You fool! I told you to give it to Shuang''er, not my mother!'' he raged at Meng Zhilu, scolding her fiercely in his heart.

    Meng Zhilu feigned ignorance.

 (end of chapter 2)

    ¡°Isn''t this too extravagant? It''s part of your dowry, and I couldn''t possibly accept it.¡± Elder Huyin pretended to hesitate, feigning reluctance to accept the gift from her daughter-in-law.

    Meng Zhilu observed her mother-in-law''s greedy eyes, inwardly pitying her avarice. In her past life, after her demise due to her treacherous husband''s schemes, a significant portion of her wealth had fallen into the hands of those three villains.

    This allowed the three branches of the Shen clan to live comfortably off her wealth for the rest of their lives. Shen Zhongting, Elder Huyin, Li Lianshuang, and two other branches descended from the former family head''s concubines, which included more than 150 servants.

    But this life she will not let them enjoy it for long. As for this golden tree, she was merely lending it. She would reclaim it once after the Shen clan fell, shortly.

    Meng Zhilu thought, but maintained her face then said. ¡°Why not, Mother? Please accept it. There are many such trees in my dowry boxes. It''s only right to share one with you.¡±

    The two exchanged pleasantries, one insisting on giving, the other feigning reluctance. Finally, Elder Huyin ''reluctantly'' accepted the gift. With a radiant smile, she promptly excused herself. ¡°Well then, I''ll leave you to it, after the journey, you may be quite exhausted. I will return to my chambers to rest for a while¡±

    ¡°Zhilu, you needn''t see me off, should take care of your husband¡±

    Meng Zhilu got up and said goodbye to her mother-in-law who walked away with a happy face, ¡°Rest well, Mother.¡±

    ¡°Mother, take a good walk,¡± Shen Zhongting got up, and said briefly, He sighed in relief as his mother departed, then glared at Meng Zhilu, silently fuming in defiance, for her pretending not to know when he sent her eyes.

    Once everyone had left, Meng Zhilu, not wanting outsiders to witness the disarray in her household, turned to the shameless couple, then said

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    ¡°My dear sister seems quite weary from the journey. Why haven¡¯t you offered her a room? I''ve had the servants clean the Wei Feng House. There are plenty of vacant rooms there; you can surely spare one for her.¡±

    The Wei Feng House Meng Zhilu referred to is a residence for female visitors to the Shen family. It was a single-story building located on the north side of the Shen''s mansion, built to accommodate guests. Spacious, with up to ten rooms, it was separate from the main hall and dining room. A reading room and a flower garden at the back provided relaxation, especially during the hot summer months.

    As Li Lianshuang has not yet undergone the formal concubine ceremony, her status within the Shen household remains that of an outsider, So, Meng Zhuli offered this residence to her.

    ¡°Indeed, it might be beneficial for Shuang''er to stay there for now.¡± Shen Zhongting concurred with his wife''s suggestion. After a moment''s contemplation, he turned to his beloved, his voice gentle, and dismissed the thought of blaming Meng Zhilu. Seeing Li Lianshuang''s melancholic expression, he reassured her, ¡°Shuang''er will stay there temporarily. After the tea ceremony next month, you''ll move into the main residence. I''ll escort you there personally.¡± With that settled, they prepared to depart.

    Meng Zhilu observed their every move, her gaze steady. A smile that didn''t quite reach her eyes graced her lips as she addressed Shen Zhongting softly, ¡°Please, go and good rest. Both of you.¡±

    After speaking, then Meng Zhilu turned to instruct the remaining servants. ¡°Assist Miss Li in transporting her luggage to the Wei Feng House. As for the items of the Master, have Ruyi and the others carry them to the house of him and store them neatly.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Shen Huyin!¡± Two groups of servants acknowledged the order, and Pi Qiao stepped forward to help lift the chest boxes and the remaining heavy luggage. They carried everything out as Meng Zhilu had instructed.

    Shen Zhongting nodded curtly at Meng Zhilu, then turned and led Li Lianshuang away.

    Meng Zhilu watched their retreating figures with malice until they vanished from the courtyard. Then, she looked down at the jade pendant in her hand, reclaimed from Shen Zhongting. She had won this round.

    ¡®Li Lianxuan, Shen Zhongting, this is merely the beginning. I will inflict far greater pain upon you. In my past life, I vowed to send your souls to hell with my own hands. Just wait, you two. You''ll have plenty of time to enjoy each other''s company... in the afterlife.''

    With a final sneer, Meng Zhilu turned and walked back inside, heading towards the chamber in the west wing of the main house of Shen¡¯s Mansion.

 The Noble guest

    Shen Zhongting''s early 3-year recall was because of her, who asked for help from her father. Her father used a large amount of money to bribe the Chief of Staff of the Department of Administration and also sent someone to bring an old painting to the royal teacher Sae Fang, who served as the head of the Royal Graduate Office. Thus, when Shen Zhongting was summoned back from the border to assume a fourth-level noble position at the Royal Graduate Academy, the royal teacher offered no objections. He even entrusted Shen Zhongting with the task of teaching arithmetic to the children of court officials, from the sixth level and above, at Da Cheng¡¯s Royal College

    Before this, Shen Zhongting''s noble career had begun as a sheriff in a remote border town, a position equivalent to a seventh-level nobleman.

    That position was obtained from his perseverance in successfully taking the Jin Shi graduate exam two years ago. (The Jin Shi examination was an examination in front of the emperor. Currently, it is comparable to the national level.) However, the position of prefect in the city of Fuling, which was full of desolation and far from the royal court, had few opportunities for advancement in the royal court.

    Now, he has been promoted to a fourth-level noble. If he would like to hold a tea ceremony for his beloved openly, it is not considered to be unconventional. However, it risked becoming the subject of gossip, especially if the woman wasn''t from a noble family.

    According to custom, ''Married through the front door is the main wife, accepted through the side door is the concubine.'' The grand wedding ceremony, with bows to heaven and earth, was reserved solely for the main wife. For the concubines, a simple pink palanquin carried by four bearers through the side entrance would suffice, they could only bow before the groom''s ancestral tablets and kneel to serve tea to the main wife. This tea ceremony marked the conclusion of their less formal acceptance into the household.

    Thus, tea ceremonies were typically private affairs, with grand displays reserved for high-ranking nobility.

    Organizing a tea ceremony for Li Lianxueng by inviting guests to attend the ceremony is considered to be the ultimate honor for her. However, Shen Zhongting was only a fourth-level nobleman, not a great nobleman, so Meng Zhilu was sure that no guest would want to become a clown for the people of the capital to laugh at. But if no one shows up for the party, her plan won''t come to fruition. her plan would fail. She needed those guests to witness the Shen family''s humiliation and spread the word of it throughout the capital.

    ¡®From now on, Prepare for your downfall,¡¯

    Meng Zhilu vowed silently in her heart, then turned into the inner chambers, towards her study''s table. Her cold eyes gleamed with resentment. Amid the atmosphere in the house that was so silent and looked terrifying. Her shadow reflected in the sunlight stretched along the corridor balcony. It looks like the shadow of a demon whose fury spreads like flames. From now on, she will not let Li Lianxuang live in peace. Of course, she will do everything in her power to destroy this shiting couple.

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    Meng Zhilu picked up a brush, dipped it in ink, and began compiling a guest list for Li Lianxuan''s upcoming tea ceremony. Over two hundred families from across the capital would be invited in the next month. A sly smile curved her lips. She would turn that ceremony into a scandal that would reverberate throughout the capital. Let them all watch

    ¡­

    The next morning, Meng Zhilu awoke refreshed and in high spirits. After attending to her personal needs, she proceeded to the dining hall for breakfast, which was prepared to the next door.

    She swept her eyes at each dish that was beautifully laid out on the plate. There are eight side dishes to eat with hot porridge, as well as eight mixed grains of porridge, porridge on the side of sorghum, eaten with sweet bean curry, and rice milk for her to choose from. As for dessert, it is stewed pear with jujubes to combat the heat. All the food was sending smoke billowing, its enticing aroma filling the air.

    Despite her fondness for food, Meng Zhilu exercised restraint. Each meal was meticulously prepared with a variety of dishes. She sampled a few bites from each plate, savored a few spoonfuls of soup, and declared herself satisfied. Setting down her chopsticks, she addressed the servants waiting attentively behind her. ¡°I''m full now. Please enjoy the rest.¡±

    Typically, the servants'' meals were prepared separately from the master''s and consisted of simple fare. Breakfast was mantou (steamed buns) with millet porridge and pickles. Dinner was usually steamed millet with bits of meat. Leftovers from the master''s table, without explicit permission, were returned to the kitchen for disposal. Servants were forbidden to consume them.

    However, Meng Zhilu consistently shared leftovers with the household staff, earning the gratitude of those who served in the dining hall.

    "Having eaten her fill, Meng Zhilu returned to the main hall to address Shen Zhongting''s concubines, who had come to pay their morning respects. They knelt in unison, except for Li Lianxuan, who was absent. Until the tea ceremony, she remained an outsider, exempt from morning and evening greetings and from serving the main wife during meals.

    Li Lianxuan remained comfortably ensconced in the Wei Feng House, free from any duties. This was her sole advantage for the time being.

    As Meng Zhilu entered and seated herself in the hall''s main chair, the ten concubines kneeling before her bowed their heads in unison. ¡°We, your humble servants, greet Huyin, Good morning.¡±

    Their greeting was complete, they remained motionless, awaiting further instruction.

    ¡°Rise.¡± Meng Zhilu permitted them to stand. Unlike many other families, she did not insist they remain kneeling. Some wives delighted in tormenting their husbands'' concubines, forcing them to kneel for extended periods or finding fault to inflict physical and mental suffering

 (part2)

    The reason, why Shen Zhongting''s early 3-year recall was because of her, who asked for help from her father. Her father used a large amount of money to bribe the Chief of Staff of the Department of Administration and also sent someone to bring an old painting to the royal teacher Fang, who served as the head of the Royal Graduate Office. Thus, when Shen Zhongting was summoned back from the border to assume a fourth-level noble position at the Royal Graduate Academy, the royal teacher offered no objections. He even entrusted Shen Zhongting with the task of teaching arithmetic to the children of court officials, from the sixth level and above, at Da Cheng¡¯s Royal College.

    Before this, Shen Zhongting''s noble career had begun as a sheriff in a remote border town, a position equivalent to a seventh-level nobleman.

    That position was obtained from his perseverance in successfully taking the Jin Zhi graduate exam two years ago. (The Jin Zhi examination was an examination in front of the emperor. Currently, it is comparable to the national level.) However, the position of prefect in the city of Fuling, which was full of desolation and far from the royal court, had few opportunities for advancement in the royal court.

    Now, he has been promoted to a fourth-level noble. If he would like to hold a tea ceremony for his beloved openly, it is not considered to be unconventional. However, it risked becoming the subject of gossip, especially if the woman wasn''t from a noble family.

    According to custom, ¡®Married through the front door is the main wife, accepted through the side door is the concubine.¡¯ The grand wedding ceremony, with bows to heaven and earth, was reserved solely for the main wife. For the concubines, a simple pink palanquin carried by four bearers through the side entrance would suffice, they could only bow before the groom''s ancestral tablets and kneel to serve tea to the main wife. This tea ceremony marked the conclusion of their less formal acceptance into the household.

    Thus, tea ceremonies were typically private affairs, with grand displays reserved for high-ranking nobility.

    Organizing a tea ceremony for Li Lianshuang by inviting guests to attend the ceremony is considered to be the ultimate honor for her. However, Shen Zhongting was only a fourth-level nobleman, not a great nobleman, so Meng Zhilu was sure that no guest would want to become a clown for the people of the capital to laugh at. But if no one shows up for the party, her plan won''t come to fruition. her plan would fail. She needed those guests to witness the Shen family''s humiliation and spread the word of it throughout the capital.

    ¡®From now on, Prepare for your downfall,¡¯

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    Meng Zhilu vowed silently in her heart, then turned into the inner chambers, towards her study''s table. Her cold eyes gleamed with resentment. Amid the atmosphere in the house that was so silent and looked terrifying. Her shadow reflected in the sunlight stretched along the corridor balcony. It looks like the shadow of a demon whose fury spreads like flames. From now on, she will not let Li Lianshuang live in peace. Of course, she will do everything in her power to destroy this shiting couple.

    Meng Zhilu picked up a brush, dipped it in ink, and began compiling a guest list for Li Lianshuang''s upcoming tea ceremony. Over two hundred families from across the capital would be invited in the next month. A sly smile curved her lips. She would turn that ceremony into a scandal that would reverberate throughout the capital. Let them all watch

    ¡­

    The next morning, Meng Zhilu awoke refreshed and in high spirits. After attending to her personal needs, she proceeded to the dining hall for breakfast, which was prepared to the next door.

    She swept her eyes at each dish that was beautifully laid out on the plate. There are eight side dishes to eat with hot porridge, as well as eight mixed grains of porridge, porridge on the side of sorghum, eaten with sweet bean soup, and rice milk for her to choose from. As for dessert, it is stewed pear with jujubes to combat the heat. All the food was sending smoke billowing, its enticing aroma filling the air.

    Despite her fondness for food, Meng Zhilu exercised restraint. Each meal was meticulously prepared with a variety of dishes. She sampled a few bites from each plate, savored a few spoonsful of soup, and declared herself satisfied. Setting down her chopsticks, she addressed the servants waiting attentively behind her. ¡°I''m full now. Please enjoy the rest.¡±

    Typically, the servants'' meals were prepared separately from the master''s and consisted of simple fare. Breakfast was Mantou (steamed buns) with millet porridge and pickles. Dinner was usually steamed millet with bits of meat. Leftovers from the master''s table, without explicit permission, were returned to the kitchen for disposal. Servants were forbidden to consume them.

    However, Meng Zhilu consistently shared leftovers with the household staff, earning the gratitude of those who served in the dining hall.

    Having eaten her fill, Meng Zhilu returned to the main hall to address Shen Zhongting¡¯s concubines, who had come to pay their morning respects. They knelt in unison, except for Li Lianshuang, who was absent. Until the tea ceremony, she remained an outsider, exempt from morning and evening greetings and from serving the main wife during meals.

    Li Lianshuang remained comfortably ensconced in the Wei Feng House, free from any duties. This was her sole advantage for the time being.

    As Meng Zhilu entered and seated herself in the hall''s main chair, the ten concubines kneeling before her bowed their heads in unison. ¡°We, your humble servants, greet Huyin, Good morning.¡±

    Their greeting was complete, they remained motionless, awaiting further instruction.

    ¡°Rise.¡± Meng Zhilu permitted them to stand. Unlike many other families, she did not insist they remain kneeling. Some wives delighted in tormenting their husbands'' concubines, forcing them to kneel for extended periods or finding fault to inflict physical and mental suffering.

 (end of chapter)

    Two days later,

    Meng Zhilu embarked on her journey to the Jade Dragon Palace, the residence of the young prince, Rong Wang. She traveled in a grand Shen clan carriage, her heart pounding with anticipation as she contemplated the true purpose of her visit.

    It was rumored that Rong Wang possessed the Soul Dew magic potion, a mystical concoction created by Xianxia who is the master of YouHuang City (the City of Yellow Poison)

    The Soul Dew possessed extraordinary properties. Odorless, colorless, and tasteless, it worked its magic through the bloodstream, swiftly seizing control of the victim''s mind within seconds. The enslaved individual would then obey the potion user''s every command. Its rarity stemmed from the precious ingredients and intricate extraction process involved. A single drop was effective for half an hour, ample time to kill or manipulate a target. She would use this potion on Shen Zhongting when the time was right, commanding him to end his own life!

    The Shen estate was situated five li north of the city center. Meng Zhilu''s carriage rolled southward, the rhythmic clatter of its wheels echoing through the bustling streets. Finally, it arrived at the gates of the Jade Dragon Palace.

    When arrived, after a brief wait at the palace gates, Meng Zhilu informed the eunuch of her purpose and was escorted to the guesthouse. It nestled amidst a tranquil garden, beyond the Moon Gate, where the female member of the palace lives, leading to the inner chambers for guests.

    Meng Zhilu hadn''t waited long before the handsome young prince entered with regal grace, stopping before her. His presence was so striking that Meng Zhilu could scarcely breathe.

    Today, he wore a black, wide-sleeved robe adorned with a golden dragon motif. His inky hair was tied into a topknot, secured with a golden band intricately patterned. Sharp eyes, though cold, were offset by a seductive smile playing on his lips. His strong brows and prominent nose accentuated his handsome features, further enhanced by his fair complexion. His god-like beauty captivated Meng Zhilu, her heart pounding uncontrollably as their gazes met.

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    In her past life, He had always been like this...

    "Shen Huyin, welcome. Please, have some tea before we begin our discussion," Rong Wang greeted, settling into a padding seat in front of her. His smooth, deep voice jolted Meng Zhilu from her reverie.

    Ah, yes, thank you,'' she stammered, momentarily flustered. It took her a few moments to regain her composure and acknowledge the prince''s invitation to drink tea.

    Meng Zhilu lifted the cup''s lid and sponged it, before lifting it to a delicate sip. "Hmm... if I''m not mistaken, this is the renowned Four Seasons Wulong tea of Wuzhou City?" she remarked, using her knowledge of tea to mask her earlier lapse in composure. Flattery was a useful tool, especially when dealing with royalty.

    The Four Seasons of Wulong tea was prized for its rarity. Young shoots had to be plucked at one time per year, resulting in a limited yield. A single plantation might produce less than ten catties of these delicate leaves. Its steep price reflected not only its scarcity but also its exceptional flavor. The first leaves of Wulong tea possessed a subtle astringency, distinct from the bolder flavors of later harvests. As one savored the tea, the astringency gradually gave way to a lingering sweetness on the tongue, while a delicate fragrance filled the senses, leaving the drinker refreshed and quenched.

    She thought to herself in mind, ''Such extravagance from a prince. Has amnesia turned him into a spendthrift? How infuriating.''

    Meanwhile, the southern region was ravaged by floods, leaving countless people homeless and destitute. Farmland was submerged, and an epidemic claimed many lives.

    While The emperor and the crown prince urgently mobilized aid for the south, Rong Wang who is the favored royal prince indulged in ostentatious displays of wealth. Meng Zhilu found it utterly shameful. But even though she felt frustrated, she still had to wear a mask. Pretending to flatter his rich tastes. "It must be true; this taste is the tea of Wuzhou City."

    Rong Wang responded casually, ''Yes, Shen Huyin, your guess is correct. This is indeed Four Seasons of Wulong tea. How did you discern it?'' He feigned curiosity.

    Meng Zhilu smiled. ''I recognized it from the first sip when I visited the prince''s consort of Rong Ler Palace. Having the opportunity to savor it again today is a true delight,'' she said playfully.

 Rong Wangs conditions.

    The Rong Le Palace Meng Zhilu referred to was the residence of Ler Wang, the fourth prince, who is the son of Noble Consort Lian. Though of relatively low birth, Ler Wang had married the Minister of Civil Affairs daughter, gaining significant political influence through his wife''s family. Few in the royal court dared to oppose him.

    Despite being the favorite son of the Emperor, Rong Wang wasn''t as close as his half-brothers. He held no official positions in the court and thus wielded less influence. However, he had carved a path for himself in trade, becoming one of the wealthiest individuals in the capital, controlling numerous lucrative ventures.

    Moreover, he remained unmarried and childless, without concubines or consorts to attend to him. This made him a prime target for ambitious women across the kingdom, drawn to his wealth and the prospect of a life free from the power struggles plaguing his siblings.

    "Oh, that''s why" Rong Wang replied, his saber shape eyebrows arching slightly as if in surprise. His lips, subtly glossed, curved into a faint smile that momentarily stole Meng Zhilu''s breath. She recognized it as a polite gesture, yet couldn''t help but wish he would smile less often.

    She pretended to lower her head to hide her embarrassment, and continued, "she continued, ''My grandmother used to bring silk from Hangzhou as gifts for Princess Jiang Zhi. That''s how I first encountered the exquisite flavor of Wuzhou tea. It remains a cherished memory until now." Meng Zhi was lying but thought the opposite in her mind.

    ''Such extravagant fool, a single serving of this tea costs fifty thousand taels. Even my wealthy father could only afford half a catty after much deliberation.'' In truth, she had never set foot in Ma Li Palace. That tea her father drank was a purchase by himself.

    Rong Wang raised an eyebrow, signaling his comprehension. "Well, but I think, your purpose is more than sending invitations?" he prompted, cutting to the chase after the initial pleasantries.

    His expectant expression prompted Meng Zhilu to be direct. "Of course, Aside from delivering this invitation," she began her true purpose, "I also wish to inquire about the Soul Dew potion. I''m prepared to offer one million taels in exchange for a single drop. What are your thoughts, Your Highness?"

    She spoke candidly, producing a stack of paying slips from her sleeve and placing them on the table. "Please consider it, Your Highness," Meng Zhilu urged, confident in her offer. A million taels for a single drop of Soul Dew was a bargain. Rong Wang, the shrewd businessman, would surely see its value."

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    Her expression radiates confidence. Her lips were covered with a smile that pressed deeply could see the dimples on the side of her white cheeks.

    Rong Wang''s gaze lingered on the young woman''s dark, captivating eyes. He arched an eyebrow slightly, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. His voice, deep and velvety, held a hint of amusement. "I''m curious how you came to know about the Soul Dew, Shen Huyin. Surely, you haven''t been listening to idle gossip?"

    His voice was smooth, yet the underlying mockery in his words was not lost on Meng Zhilu.

    Nevertheless, undeterred, Meng Zhilu restated her offer firmly. Regardless, "I stand by my proposal. One million taels in exchange for a single drop of the potion. This banknote can be redeemed at any money changer in the capital." She repeated. Her beautiful eyes gaze held Rong Wang''s steady as she slid the paying slip across the table towards him.

    But why would a noble person of the prince''s wealth and leisure care for a mere million taels? He chuckled softly, declining her offer. "Ah..., Shen Huyin, you seem to have taken those rumors to heart. I possess no such potion. It''s merely idle chatter from those with too much time on their hands."

    Meng Zhilu had anticipated Rong Wang''s refusal. Believing he was merely feigning disinterest; she increased her offer. "If that''s insufficient, I''ll add another million. Two million taels for a single drop. What do you think?"

    Hearing that, Rong Wang chuckles softly. His deep voice invites a calm atmosphere in the hall surrounded by dozens of eunuchs. It looks incredibly lively.

    He regarded Meng Zhilu with an unreadable expression, then spoke in a low, alluring tone. ''Well, since you''re so insistent, I suppose I can''t refuse...'' He paused dramatically. ''My price is ten million taels of gold per drop, payable by today. Otherwise, the deal is off.'' After spoke, he set down his teacup, raising an ornate fan to conceal a mischievous grin. His eyes sparkled with amusement, like a child playing a prank.

    As expected, Meng Zhilu''s face paled. The prince''s exorbitant demand had caught her off guard.

    Meng Zhilu''s eyes widened in disbelief. Where could she possibly procure such an astronomical sum in a single night? Even the Emperor himself would require several days to gather ten million taels.

    If even the emperor couldn''t meet Rong Wang''s demands, how could a mere official''s wife like her?

    Meng Zhilu''s face drained of color as she frantically sought a solution. "But, Your Highness," she pleaded, "I''m merely a merchant''s daughter. Where could I possibly find ten million taels? I beg your leniency." She said softly, but in her heart, she cursed the ''ungrateful man'' fiercely.

    ''Have you lost your mind?'' she raged internally. ''Where am I supposed to find such a fortune? Wang Ji if you''re unwilling to sell, just say so! There''s no need for this charade.''

    ''Wang Ji'' was the name she had given him back when he still resided in the Meng household.

    Rong Wang''s gaze lingered on Meng Zhilu''s pale face. Noting the flicker of disapproval in her eyes, his playful demeanor shifted, his voice turning serious.

    "If you cannot meet my price, then I cannot sell you the potion." When he finished speaking, he raised his tea and took a sip, his eyes gleaming at Meng Zhilu''s expression as if she had eaten a bitter pill. Her crestfallen expression made his smile, it was full of disappointment.

 (part 2)

    Bitterness welled up in Meng Zhilu''s mind as she recalled her past kindness to this ungrateful man.

    Back then, he had been lying unconscious by the roadside, clad in rags, and his leg was broken, making it impossible to walk for several months. She had summoned a physician, and offered him shelter, food, and water, tending to him for months as he raved about being the emperor¡¯s son. When he recovered from the chaos, his memories returned, he had forgotten everything about his time at her family''s estate, including her¡ªthe woman who had been his savior, the woman who had been like the moonlight in his heart, his beacon of hope. Only heartache remained for her.

    Later, when he returned to the royal palace, he received the same honors. Zhao Lingrong never returned to the Meng family in Jiangnan anymore. Until she married Shen Zhongting unwillingly, and then moved to Shen''s clan in the capital. When she had the opportunity to meet him again, he turned out to be a stranger to her. Completely.

    Meng Zhilu gritted her teeth and seethed inwardly. ¡®Rong Wang, damn person, you repay my kindness with such cruelty? How dare you!¡¯ Her beautiful eyes narrowed as she glared at him, silently cursing the emperor¡¯s son for his ingratitude.

    Observing her sudden silence and the pained expression on her beautiful face, Rong Wang struggled to suppress his laughter.

    He raised his fan to cover his seductive lips, hiding his silent laughter. In truth, he had been observing her for two years, ever since a chance encounter during the Yuan Xiao Festival. He had spotted her by the river, surrounded by servants, playfully attempting to solve a riddle for a rabbit lantern.

    Her beauty and carefree spirit captivated him. He was drawn to her smile, her dimples, and an inexplicable sense of familiarity. It was a profound affection tinged with sorrow...An indescribable sense of familiarity springs up in the middle of the heart, all the feelings poured into his heart without being able to find a cause. Then he''d sent a guard to investigate her background, discovering she was the daughter-in-law of the Shen family.

    When he found out that she was married, he felt like he was broken. So, he could only watch her from a distance, even though he knew that her married life was not happy until he met her again today. So, he decided to snatch her away from Shen Zhongting.

    Now, Meng Zhilu sat before him, seeking the coveted Soul Dew potion. Was it to rectify her unsatisfactory marriage?

    Shen Zhongting was not willing to cherish the precious pearl in his hand, he threw it away and then picked another beautiful flower to admire, so he could ask Meng Zhilu to take him instead of her bad husband

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    ...

    They were in that situation for a while.

    Meng Zhilu keep quiet, her expression guarded. Rong Wang used a fan to cover the lower half of his face while his sharp eyes stared at Meng Zhulu without saying anything. And then, a few seconds later, Rong Wang arranged the words in his mind to convey the meaning well.

    He closed his fan and lowered his hand, then asked Meng Zhilu in a serious voice. ¡°Do you truly desire the Soul Dew?¡±

    Meng Zhilu nodded resolutely. ¡°I do desire it, Your Highness. please, I''m prepared to meet your all of conditions.¡±

    Observing her eagerness, Rong Wang feigned contemplation, waving his fan dismissively. A playful smile tugged at his seductive lips. ¡°Very well, I have but one condition: if you... can please me, I shall reward you with the Soul Dew. One instance of pleasure earns you one drop; three instances, three drops; five times, five drops. If you can satisfy me all night, the entire vial is yours. Do you agree to my terms?¡±

    He concluded with a sly grin, his eyes sparkling with anticipation as he awaited Meng Zhilu''s response.

    The rumors about the Soul Dew potion were true. Its creation was a feat of alchemy, requiring rare ingredients, including the elusive snow lotus that bloomed only once a decade in the remote Manxi Mountains (Tibet). However, what the capital''s denizens didn''t know was the identity of the poison master of You Huang City. Rong Wang could provide Meng Zhilu with as much Soul Dew as she desired. In exchange for... her affections, something he had long yearned for

    Rong Wang''s proposition shocked Meng Zhilu, who had only just regained her composure. Her brow twitched, and her lips thinned into a tight line. She couldn''t believe Rong Wang desired her... in that way.

    For a woman, particularly a married woman like herself, ''pleasure'' implied something she could not offer anyone but her husband. She was no courtesan to share his bed freely. Rong Wang''s proposal was not only a refusal to sell but a blatant insult.

    Sincerely, Meng Zhiru wanted to get up and scold Zhao Lingrong after hearing about his unreasonable conditions. But no matter how much she sincerely wanted to turn down his crazy proposal, she couldn''t. Because she needs his Dew Soul drug. Without it, she could not control the minds of her enemies. When she couldn''t control them, she couldn''t destroy the Shen clan as she intended.

    In the Shen family, she had money but was powerless. When Heaven gave her a chance to return to seek justice for herself, why would she still hesitate to join a handsome man like him, the son of the emperor? In a twisted way, it was gain like a clear profit, in the past two lives she had been close to him before. even if it hasn''t gone too intimate over more than kisses.

    Meng Zhilu had a contemplative attitude. The willow leaf-shaped eyebrow frowns in a knot. She thought about it over and over again for a while. Finally, she agreed to accept Rong Wang''s incredible conditions, ¡°Yes,¡± she said firmly, her eyes resolute, ¡°I accept your terms.¡±

    Upon her agreement, Rong Wang wasted no time. He rose swiftly, pulling her into his embrace.

    Then he managed to take off the three layers of clothes on her small body in a hurry among the young eunuchs, more than a dozen stood with their heads bowed and stared at their toes. The atmosphere in the already quiet hall was so quiet, only hearing the sound of Rong Wang''s lips kissing the white throats of his beloved and the sound of their passionate encounter.

 (end of chapter)

    When all the clothes on Meng Zhilu''s beautiful body were stripped off, left with only a peach-colored thin cloth covering her secret path. Rong Wang lifts Meng Zhilu''s naked body with his two arms, her body pressed against his chest, and carried her into the inner chamber of the wooden royal house in the middle of a beautiful shady garden.

    A gentle breeze rustled through the leaves, setting the wind chimes tinkling softly, like a lullaby for lovers. The delicate scent of pear blossoms filled the air, their white petals drifting to the ground as if shy witnesses to the intimacy unfolding within.

    He laid her gently upon a plush mattress within the beautiful chamber. Then, Rong Wang, his form towering over hers, lowered himself onto her fragrant body.

    Desire pulsed beneath his robes, the agitation in the lower abdomen demanded that it be released quickly. However, his deep feelings for Meng Zhilu transcended mere lust. To be this close to the woman he had longed for was a dream come true. He would not rush this moment.

    He lowered his head, capturing her gaze in his. Her dark eyes, reflecting his image, held a flicker of nervousness. Her cheeks flushed, and her lashes trembled. "Your Highness..." she murmured, her voice a hesitant whisper, as if she was searching for an implication hidden in the depths of her heart.

    "Shh..." Rong Wang whispered as he lowered his head and touched the tip of her nose with the tip of his nose, rubbing it gently.

    "Ngyek Nyeengh Gkhee Tsilhuk"

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    He whispered the words of the Xichang people (Tibetan language) to Meng Zhilu

    Her face was confused after hearing this. When she opened her mouth to ask, he was pinched by his thin lips and gave her a deep kiss. His lips brushed hers in a feather-light caress. Then, he deepened the kiss, his tongue gently tracing the outline of her lips.

    Their lips intertwined, savoring the sweetness of the kiss.

    Their kiss deepened, like a river swelling in a swamp under the Vasant wind.

    As desire intensified, Rong Wang''s tongue slipped into his intimate partner''s mouth.

    His tongue explored, swirling and entwining with the smaller one.

    Her hands resting on the thick moved along the wide back plate to the rhythm of the kissing of the person above.

    His palms caressed along her legs. Slowly climb high to the petals of the clean white pear on her secret part, the big palm caresses it gently alternately with the softness there for a while, and then slowly leaves mourning to reach the goal above, which is full of softness and bounce.

    His warm fingertips grazed her sensitive pink spot on the top of the white hill, a teasing touch that drew her closer to his body.

    Their movements quickened, bodies pressing together in a rhythm of escalating passion.

    The tender kiss deepened, their mouths clinging with a fiery hunger.

    Their breaths mingled, growing heavier with each shared inhale.

    The kiss intensified, their lips melting together in a fervent embrace.

    His big palm was rubbed on her soft body as if he owned a small body. He squeezes gently along the proportions of the soft happily, whether pink spots on the top of the white hills. Or two pear petals squeezed tightly under Her flat stomach, without the black hairy forest.

 The one in memory

    Rong Wang reveled in the sensation of smooth, unblemished skin beneath his touch. It was soft, cool, and yielding, like the water, particularly the intimate, hairless expanse.

    She was undeniably beautiful; her body was a symphony of smoothness and curves. Even the most intimate secret parts of her were exquisite.

    His hands traced the contours of Meng Zhilu''s torso, his lips locked with hers until a wildfire of passion ignited within her, impossible to quench.

    Almost 10 minutes passed, The kiss, a culmination of longing, finally broke. Rong Wang pulled back, his chest heaving as he lay beside Meng Zhilu on the yielding mattress, in a state of impassion her naked body bent and breathed heavily beside his own body.

    He lifted his head, tracing his fingertips over his swollen lips. Then, he lowered his head again, pressing gentle kisses to the tip of Meng Zhilu''s chin. His tongue trailed a slow path down her throat, leaving a trail of possessive marks on her white skin.

    "Umm..." A soft moan escaped her lips as he drew hardened flesh on top of the perfect hill into his mouth, the exclusive silk of his clothing bunched against her body. Her undergarments had gone, making the cool jade ornaments on his body against her bare skin a reminder of their intimacy.

    He kissed the sensitive skin, alternating between gentle presses and lingering explorations as if savoring a long-awaited delicacy.

    When he pulled out the kiss, Rong Wang used one hand to stroke the radiant white hills that were showing in front of him.

    His touch makes her twist and lift her hip, arousing him further, and causing a slight ache.

    The beautiful eyes stared at the shiny pearls on the tip with satisfaction. He withdrew his touch, trailing his hand down her soft curves, his gaze following the path to where her thighs met. A satisfied smile curved his lips,

    ''Ah¡­, how beautiful and fragrant, I wonder how she tastes. Should I try it?'' He thought, leaning forward to her secret''s part

    Without hesitation, he takes her hardened pink bud into his mouth, gently squeezing it between his teeth, his actions made her groan, and twist her hip like crazy

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    He wraps his tongue around the pink dot, sucking gently, alternating with playful nibbles, careful not to cause any pain.

    Her happy moans made Rong Wang more excited. So, he sucked her secret part harder, sucking and pulling, together with rubbing her two pearls alternately with his hot fingers, and another hand squeezed the soft thigh to compete with her satisfied moans.

    The harder she squirmed, the harder he sucked. Mouthful, gluttonous, until a loud bang: "Joop!, Chub!"

    His actions left Meng Zhilu no choice but to let her hip follow his lips. "Ahh...!" She moaned like a whistle in her mouth. As for her heart, she thought in disbelief.

    ''Why is it so hot? His lips and tongue alone almost made me flinched. I didn''t expect this man to be a master of love.''

    Back then, when they were together in Jiangnan. She and he had hugged and kissed countless times, but that kiss was soft and warm as if they were in the garden blooms when Spring visited. Unlike this time, it was like they had physical contact.

    But this time when Rong Wang tasted her, his mouth was about to break her dam, and she almost collapsed, she didn''t want anything to splash on his face. If Rong Wang continued to suck, it would ''break'' in less than the next ten seconds.

    ''No, I can''t do that. If I ejaculate on his face, he will be angry with me.'' She thought worriedly.

    Although she had already tasted her taste when she ''made'' it to herself in the bathtub at morning, even though it smelled like freshly cooked steamed rice and tasted like diluted honey, she still couldn''t be trusted. Therefore, Rong Wang should be stripped of clothes at first. So, she can have time to calm her mood.

    Thinking of this, Meng Zhilu held his face with her hands, lifted his face from her secret path, and said, "Your Highness, May I help you strip off your clothes?" She begged him with her sweet eyes and voice.

    But Meng Zhilu''s attitude made Rong Wang more excited, he immediately wanted to deal with her, urging a rush into her beautiful body. But on second thought, he had to hold back his desire again and refused to take it lightly.

    He decided to pull out his lips and slowly moved his body up to her face, he pulled down his black pants under a black robe, and held the jade treasure to her beautiful mouth, amid Meng Zhilu''s surprise after saw.

    ''Oh my God, who used you to do this? I need your kiss, not this jade rod.'' She thought anxiously, bit her lips, and looked at Rong Wang with more confusion.

    Rong Wang said in a deep and low voice, looking at her with a more seductive look than before.

    "My dear Huyin, you can deal with it by your mouth." Then he pressed his powerful hips against her beautiful face.

 (part 2)-Love scene

    She glanced at his jade rod with exited, then decided to grab his treasure with both hands and take him into her beautiful mouth.

    He said in a low voice: ¡°Ah...yes that is good, suck it with your little tongue, hum...¡±

    For more than ten minutes, she was obsessed with using her mouth until he almost fell into her trap. He stopped her,

    ¡°Ah¡­ Huyin, enough, let me service you.¡±

    Because the fragrance of her beauty below once again demanded his desire, but she rejected his words, stretched out her tongue to touch the tip of his treasure, and swiped a hot tongue line through to manhood, then swallowed it deep and deep, nodding her beautiful head, used her magical tongue and mouth enjoy a softness from his precious.

    Her stubbornness drove him crazy. His jade rod was pursed tightly with the sweet little mouth, her tongue numbed him so much that he could hardly bear it, he didn''t know how long he could resist. So, he decided to deal with her,

    He took off all silk clothes, threw them away in a hurry, pressed his well-proportioned body on her, rubbed his tongue on her beautiful lips, kissed her, and tasted himself from her pretty mouth.

    Meng Zhiru hugged him tightly. Rong Wang was still enjoying this fiery kiss.

    He pressed his chest firmly against her full bosom, securing it tightly with a strong arm around her back. With his other hand, he grasped her firm and rigid form, guiding it toward the entrance of the cave that his heated fingers had just begun to explore.

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    "Meng Zhilu, you won''t regret this later, will you?" he inquired once more, seeking reassurance.

    Meng Zhilu met Rong Wang''s earnest gaze. "I will never regret it, whether now or in the future." Her love for him remained steadfast, despite his unawareness of her feelings. At that moment, their paths had momentarily intertwined. Though she had only experienced a fleeting embrace, it was enough to satisfy her.

    As her words faded, Rong Wang pressed his lips against hers, delivering a kiss that was both emotional and gentle. His powerful form swiftly entered her, applying pressure within her all at once, and then advancing fully.

    Despite her preparations, the sudden invasion caused Meng Zhilu''s body to tremble. His mouth continued to kiss and explore, and she felt a jolt as the barrier of her virginity was breached.

    The sensation was exhilarating, akin to stepping into paradise. ''Ohh¡­that seems she is still a virgin, unbelievable!'' he thought while mourning beside her ear, while his clean white teeth grazed her delicate earlobes, and his strong arms enveloped her beautiful form. At last, he had penetrated her body, fulfilling a secret desire she had long harbored. "Ah, Huyin, how tight this is...," he moaned with satisfaction, slamming his hips quickly.

    With every move of the smart prince, Meng Zhiru couldn''t help but moan, whole body tensed, when Rong Wang inserted his hot rod into the soft pink cave, his powerful hips slammed into the slim body, crushing her with his thick hips, almost like when crushed a white flower on hand.

    Her cave, made him feel satisfied, it was a tight, warm, wet, and felt spasm.

    His actions made Meng Zhiru groan, her through chattered. ¡°Ah...Your Highness¡± The slender legs instinctively opened, and the warm jade rod was more easily deep into her cave.

    His assault left Meng Zhilu momentarily stunned, with his white jade rod immense, its girth formidable. As it surged forward, she found it nearly unbearable. "Uhh...It just small hurts", but the sense of turbulence is overwhelming, she murmured.

 (part 3) Love scene

    In response, Rong Wang placed a gentle kiss on her lips as a gesture of comfort, then withdrew his large hand from her slender waist. He caressed the sensitive tip of her wonderful hill, encouraging her to find joy amidst the sudden discomfort, that accompanied their first intimate encounter.

    ¡°Huyin I feel pains either; your... grip me so tightly, could not bear it easily¡±, he uttered provocatively, then inquired of Meng Zhilu, ¡°Why not try to make me feel better? What would you like me to do next? Should I maintain this rhythm?¡± Upon finishing his question, he withdrew from her narrow passage and thrust back in with such force that it produced a sound of bump. ¡°Smack smack¡­!¡±

    Initially, he struck with the strength of his muscles, creating a blend of excitement and tension for Meng Zhilu. She gasped, yet remained silent regarding his inquiry about her desires, her mind confused as if covered in fog. She could not think clearly, nor could she respond. All she was aware of was her longing for her first love to alleviate the torment within her. Thus, Rong Wang delivered two powerful strikes to her narrow cave in quick succession. ¡°Smack, smack!¡±

    ¡°What do you wish for me to do next? Speak up, why do you just stare at me like that?¡±

    He said, pressing his manhood harder, forcing her to reply, she spoke with a moan ¡°Hard, I want you to love me harder...¡±

    ¡°So you wish¡± he answers, his movements rushed, slamming his hips forward, pressing for improved flow. Each thrust was faster than the last, and each impact was so powerful that it made Meng Zhilu''s head sway.

    His heartfelt passion was too much for Meng Zhilu to bear,

    Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.especially when his impressive rod pressed on her most sensitive point, the indescribable sensations compelled her to fight back. She lifts her hip!

    So, ¡°Let''s see who will win¡±, he decided to add an exhilarating edge to their intimacy as she moved challengingly, then thrust his magic manhood into her tight passage as her hips rose to meet his rhythm.

    He groaned in a deep voice, ¡°Hum... how dare you¡± then rushed his precious in and out of her tight passage more quickly.

    His actions caused Meng Zhilu to clench her passage tightly. As a result, his jade rod was trapped, creating an almost unbearable situation for a young man like him. And finally...

    ¡°Oh, I''m undone, completely undone...aww you beat me!¡± he roared, suddenly releasing a stream of thick, milky fluid from his jade precious. Meng Zhilu also climaxed alongside him, her body twitching a few times, melting like liquid wax onto the soft mattress, her passage of love filled with his essence that had been held for 28 years, leaving not a drop behind.

    Rong Wang leaned over her sweat-soaked body, resting his handsome face on Meng Zhilu''s white neck, his panting breath released from the exertion of love.

    At that moment, their hearts were beating so loudly they could hear each other''s and their bodies entwined in a tight embrace.

    Both of them remained silent, not knowing how long. Finally, their breathing returned to normal. Meng Zhilu spoke to Rong Wang in a soft and sweet tone.

    ¡°You owe me a drop of Soul Dew potion, Your Highness. Please fulfill your promise.¡±

    Rong Wang inhaled the sweet scent from Meng Zhilu''s throat, his voice firm as he answered, ¡°Yes, and I will add another drop for you at the end of our second time.¡±

    After his reply, he gently turned Meng Zhilu''s body onto his. ¡°This time, you have to stay on top.¡±

    Meng Zhilu whistled softly, ¡°Hu! Why is that?¡± Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment at the request and the position he suggested.

    Rong Wang guided her to her knees, positioning her above his rigid precious that awaited at the entrance to her cave. ¡°Huyin... take it,¡± he said, his voice a low, husky growl. His hands possessively cupped her soft plump breasts.

    She hesitated for a moment, then obeyed his command. Her passage, still slick from their first encounter, slowly enveloped the engorged head of the jade rod.

 (end of chapter-love scene)

    Her response elicited a moan from Rong Wang. ¡°Oh... that''s it, slowly... hmm...¡± he felt like he was ascending to the heavens.

    He gritted his teeth, patiently waiting until their bodies were pressed so tightly together that no air could pass between them. Meng Zhilu closed her eyelids and began to pleasure the charming prince with her lithe, perfectly proportioned body. Of the second times.

    She tensed her abdomen, squeezing his jade rod tighter as she moved her hips up and down in rhythm.

    ¡°Huyin, you''re so hot, you''re driving me crazy...hum,¡±

    It was incredibly tight, the softness of the yielding walls within, his captivated eyes gazed at her passage, fueling his imagination intensely.

    Unable to resist, he began to caress her sensitive spot with his fingers.

    Meng Zhilu''s eyes fluttered as his warm fingertips stimulated her.

    Rong Wang''s enchanted gaze traced the rhythmic sway of her breasts above him, their image alternating with the flickering vision of plump petals.

    In this Capital, everyone knows Meng Zhi as a beautiful woman, noble and treasured. She is an exceedingly rare gem. Shen Zhongting was a fool for never realizing it. When he had her, instead of cherishing her, he cast her aside for a worthless trinket like Li Lianxung. What does that vixen possess besides beauty? When time passes, that beauty will fade. But the bond of marriage and love should endure.

    ¡®Meng Zhilu, from now on, I will take good care of you. Even if Shen Zhongting scorns you.¡¯

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    He made a solemn vow to Meng Zhilu in his heart, that he would cherish her forever.

    ¡­.

    That afternoon, before Rong Wang finally agreed to part ways, Meng Zhilu had to engage in the passionate battle of love with the charming prince three more times.

    Meng Zhilu lay nestled against Rong Wang''s chest until their breathing finally slowed. Then, Rong Wang spoke to her, his voice gentle.

    ¡°In no more than three months, I will ensure Shen Zhongting grants you a divorce, and I will bring you to my palace with 48 dowry boxes.¡±

    He sincerely wished to provide her with more, but he was bound by the strict rules of the Royal Court.

    Every aspect of life, from eating and sleeping to learning and dressing, was governed by ritual, let alone marriage, the most significant event in one''s life. For the Princess Consort, the groom presented the bride with 188 dowry chests. A Noble Concubine received 108, while mistresses were given a mere 48 boxes. The number of chests signified their rank and status.

    If he defied the rules just for Meng Zhilu, the Emperor himself would descend upon his palace. He had been disciplined many times and vividly remembered the sting of his father''s rod.

    He offered more excuses, fearing Meng Zhilu might suspect his true intentions. ¡°But I''m not one to be stingy,¡± he declared. ¡°I will add another 140 bridal chests by that day. If you desire anything else, just tell me, and my servants will provide it.¡±

    Rong Wang''s attitude brought a secret smile to Meng Zhilu''s lips, her thoughts through the past, when he lost his memory, he forgot everything but never caused trouble for her, her family, and cherished her more than his life.

    But when his memories returned, he had forgotten their time together completely. He became aloof, arrogant, and focused on wealth and luxury, treating her like a stranger, not even like a mere ex-lover either.

    ¡°...¡±

    ¡°Well? Aren''t you going to thank me for my generosity? Why are you just staring at me?¡± Rong Wang prompted, impatient with her silence.

    ¡°Of course, Your Highness. I appreciate your kindness, deeper.¡±

    ¡°Use the proper terms. I am your man now.¡±

    ¡°Oh, Okay, this humble wife thanks my husband.¡±

    ¡°Very good. It''s refreshing to have someone so easily taught. Now, for your reward...¡±

    ¡°Oh, no, not again! I''ve had enough. Take your lips off from my nippl...ah!¡± she exclaimed playfully, arching her back and wiggling her hips, attempting to escape Rong Wang''s persistent pursuit.

    ...

 She is not a ripe persimmon

    That day, by the time Meng Zhilu returned home, the sun was already setting.

    Clutching her aching waist, she limped into Shen Zhongting''s master bedroom, devoid of his presence, and collapsed onto the four-poster bed. She stared at the silk ceiling (Ancient houses usually did not build ceilings, so they used silk fabrics instead of the ceiling.)

    However, since their marriage¡¯ Shen Zhongting had not set foot in this house. Only when pressing matters demanded his attention would he briefly visit the main residence, leaving as soon as his duties were fulfilled to return to his private house.

    On days when he wasn¡¯t working at the palace, Shen Zhongting rarely returned to the main house. Instead, he would often go horseback riding with friends, visit fellow scholars for tea and poetry, or, if not teaching at the Royal College, remain in his private quarters, indulging in painting, calligraphy, poetry, writing, or reading late into the night.

    Dozens of concubines resided within the estate, yet Shen Zhongting rarely visited them. Perhaps four or five times a month, he would grace one of them with his presence, choosing based on his whims.

    Despite Shen Zhongting¡¯s neglect of both the main house and her bedroom, Meng Zhilu paid it no mind. She had no desire to scheme or vie for the attention of a husband who had never loved her, unlike the concubines in the rear quarters, who constantly competed for his favor, often with little success.

    ...

    Meng Zhiru¡¯s lips curved into a contented smile. She slowly closed her eyes, lulled herself to sleep, and awaited Rong Wang¡¯s visit.

    Half a month after she visited Rong Wang¡¯s Yulong Palace, she was engrossed with many account books in her working room, Pi Qiao entered and reported that the Shen family¡¯s butler had requested an audience to meet her.

    ¡°Butler Shen, what brings you here?¡± Meng Zhiru inquired in a smooth voice, lifting her teacup for a sip as she settled into the chairman¡¯s chair.

    The butler offered an ingratiating smile. ¡°Hum..., I bought the order of Master to inform you, at the tea ceremony¡¯s day, the Master would like to request money for the evening party and about the wedding dress of Miss Li...¡±

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    Meng Zhilu didn¡¯t even glance at the middle-aged butler. ¡°How much?¡± she asked flatly.

    The butler beamed, retrieving a detailed notebook and presenting it to Meng Zhilu. ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Li¡¯s wedding attire was commissioned from Dongliu couture shop at 1,500 taels each, totaling 3,000 taels. I¡¯ve included a separate note in this book for you to review as well¡±

    With that, the butler handed Meng Zhilu a blue notebook.

    As Meng Zhilu took the book and flipped through it, Butler Shen continued, handing her a second notebook with a red cover. ¡°This red book contains a list of drinks for each guest. I have detailed everything within, Madam, please review it.¡±

    ¡°For Rong Wang, a separate banquet table is required, befitting his status. This table must include 150 savory dishes, 108 varieties of curry sauce, and 50 side dishes. The rice must be of the finest quality, accompanied by 32 types of desserts, 8 beverages, 8 white liquors, 12 yellow liquors, 20 fruit liquors, and 20 teas (divided into 2 green and 2 white varieties). The cost for Rong Wang¡¯s meal alone totals 350,000 taels. As for his entourage, there are 10 individuals each from the ranks of Earl, Viscount, and Baron. Their meals are estimated at 10,000 taels per person, bringing the total cost for Rong Wang¡¯s table to 450,000 taels.¡±

    The remaining guests include 10 Dukes, each contributing 50,000 taels for a total of 500,000 taels. There are also 20 Marquesses (Hou), each at 30,000 taels, for a total of 600,000 taels.¡±

    ¡°Additionally, 10 first-tier nobles have accepted the invitation, their meals totaling 100,000 taels. There are 20 second-tier nobles at 160,000 taels, 40 third-tier nobles at 240,000 taels, and 50 fourth-tier nobles at 250,000 taels.¡±

    ¡°The deans we have invited a total of 400 guests, with their meals estimated at 200,000 taels.¡±

    The expenses have been allocated according to rank, from the highest-ranking nobles to those of lesser standing. The deans, hailing from affluent merchant families, were also invited. Despite their social status as merchants, their wealth afforded them prominence in the capital. However, their seating arrangements were separate, positioned at the rear of the hall, adjacent to the nobility.

    As he continued speaking, the butler observed Meng Zhilu¡¯s expression.

    Seeing her indifferent demeanor as she flipped through the book without a word of protest, his expression brightened. Mustering his courage, he continued his report, following Elder Huyin¡¯s instructions.

    ¡°For the event, we¡¯ve engaged dancers and a band from the Red Flower Hall to entertain the guests. The cost will not exceed 10,000 taels¡±

    ¡°Regarding Ms. Li¡¯s dowry, the Master requires a combination of cash and a bill of exchange, amounting to 500,000 taels. Additionally, the Master has commissioned a craftsman from Fuyuan¡¯s shop to create a gold jewelry set for Ms. Li. The cost for this is 30,000 taels, payable in full by tomorrow. Finally, the expenses for food amount to 2,700,000 taels, and the dowry fee is also due by tomorrow.¡±

 (part 2)

    Upon concluding his report, the butler bowed to Meng Zhilu and stood silently, his heart pounding in his chest at the enormity of the sum requested by Elder Huyin and Shen Zhongting.

    Meng Zhiru remained silent for a moment, carefully reviewing each notebook. Then, she looked up and addressed the butler in a steady voice. ¡°Certainly, I will settle the cost of Ms. Li¡¯s hairpin tomorrow. Simply inform the shop to send someone to collect the payment¡±

    ¡°Yes, Madam¡±, the butler replied, his voice betraying his relief as he exhaled softly.

    However, Meng Zhilu¡¯s next words plunged his heart into despair. ¡°As for the dowry, the wedding dress, the food for the tea ceremony and evening party, and all miscellaneous expenses, you''ll need to secure those funds from your Master. If there¡¯s anything he wish to adjust, feel free to do so. I have no objections¡±

    Her refusal drained the color from the butler¡¯s face. After a moment, he stammered, ¡°But... why, Madam?¡±

    Meng Zhiru met his gaze, her expression calm. ¡°There are three reasons¡±, she began. ¡°Firstly, the Shen treasury is empty. You managed the accounts yourself; surely, you¡¯re aware that two years after my marriage, the central account was in deficit by over one and a half million taels? You handed me the ledgers and debt notice yourself. How could you have forgotten?¡±

    She referenced the Shen family¡¯s financial standing, which had been precarious for years. The Butler, however, disagreed. ¡°But I recall that after the Master entrusted the treasury key to Huyin, the debt of 1,300,000 taels was settled. Subsequently, the accounts have remained balanced.¡± He explained this in a somber tone, despite his awareness of the house¡¯s dire financial straits.

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    The Shen family owns five thousand farms. While crop cultivation typically yields abundant harvests, a severe drought several years ago led to water scarcity. Left with few options, Shen Zhongting turned to trade, hoping to generate income to support the extended family members who shared the household. However, their scholarly background and their whole lives were devoted to textbooks, so they had no experience in trading, and their lack of business acumen resulted in failed ventures and substantial debts.

    Since then, expenses have mounted, accumulating into a massive debt that Meng Zhilu inherited upon becoming the family¡¯s eldest daughter-in-law shortly after her marriage.

    Butler Shen, a longtime employee of this clan, was intimately familiar with the family¡¯s affairs. Yet, as a guardian of their interests, he felt compelled to defend their position.

    Meng Zhilu¡¯s voice turned icy. ¡°Indeed, your master handed me the key to the central treasury before his departure. However, let¡¯s not forget that on the very day I received it, I opened the treasury for all to witness. Everyone present saw that it contained a mere 30 pieces of furniture¡ªno cash, no bills of exchange, no gold, no jewelry, nothing of value. Consider this: where would the funds to settle a debt of one million three hundred thousand taels have come from? On that day, the master¡¯s servants, Elder Huyin, and Elder Tai Tai were all present. Surely you recall being there as well?¡±

    On that day, representatives from all three households were present, including the butler. He, however, remains reluctant to discuss the events of that day. Copies of the inventory records from the treasury opening are also in the possession of Shen Zhongting, his grandmother, and his mother.

    The Butler persisted. ¡°I recall the debt being settled, but I assumed the Master had provided Huyin with your funds before your departure.¡±

    Meng Zhiru''s laughter held a mocking edge. ¡°Your master possesses Shen¡¯s ancestral treasures, yet he¡¯s never even given me a single tael. You¡¯re welcome to request a payment record from him. As for receipts for expenses I¡¯ve covered on his behalf, I¡¯ll have someone fetch them for you.¡±

 (end of chapter 6)

    Having said her piece, Meng Zhilu turned to address her maid, who stood attentively behind her.

    ¡°Pi Qiao, fetch me a box of contract books from the study. And also bring the box containing the repair invoices. I¡¯ve covered the maintenance costs for seven houses, each at five hundred thousand taels, totaling two million one hundred thousand taels. Additionally, I paid five hundred thousand taels each for the residences of the Elder Tai Tai and Elder Huyin, amounting to one million.¡± She concluded with a faint smile directed at the butler, her lips curving pleasantly but her eyes remaining cold.

    Two years prior, Shen Zhongting had yet to attain his Jin Zhi degree and thus held no position in the imperial court. Moreover, the Shen family, scholars for generations, had no experience in trade and derived their income solely from their 5,000 hectares of rice paddies. While the surplus rice was sold, the annual earnings amounted to less than 1,000,000 taels, a meager sum considering the family¡¯s size and lavish spending habits. The ancestral antiques had dwindled to a mere 30 pieces of furniture.

    She knew Shen Zhongting had personal funds. But the selfish man never contributed a single tael to the central account, leaving her to shoulder the massive debt incurred by the Shen clan¡¯s failed business ventures. This deeply angered Meng Zhiru.

    Even more agonizing were the haunting echoes of Li Lianshuang¡¯s cruel mockery from her previous life, uttered as she lay on the floor with her last breath.

    ¡®From now on, I''ll take everything¡ªyour assets, your money, your houses, even your man. You fool! Meng Zhilu.¡¯

    Meng Zhiru¡¯s lips curled into a bitter smile as she finally voiced her long-held resentment. ¡°So, the money used to settle the 1,300,000-tael debt came entirely from my dowry. Your Master hasn¡¯t contributed a single copper.¡± She turned to the butler. ¡°A million taels is no small sum to settle such a debt requires a payment record and a signed agreement. No one, not even spouses, would recklessly give away that kind of money without documentation.¡±

    The Butler, pale and sweating, listened as Meng Zhilu continued, her voice unwavering. ¡°As for the income you mentioned from two years ago, even after deducting expenses, less than 50,000 taels remained. Yet, daily expenditures continue unabated, ranging from hundreds to thousands of taels. Just ten days ago, Elder Huyin commissioned new clothes, including two sets for the Master¡¯s mistress, and I settled the 500-tael bill. Food costs, tea, jewelry, and other miscellaneous expenses are all covered by my funds. I have all the invoices and receipts. When your master left for the border town two years ago, he didn¡¯t provide me with a single copper. All I had was the key to an empty treasury and the account books. Everyone in this household, from the highest to the lowest, consumes my resources and spends my money without contributing a penny. In the past, I never demanded repayment from the Shen clan, assuming your master would eventually reimburse me¡±

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    ¡°Secondly, your Master desires to arrange this tea ceremony to honor Ms. Li. All the guests who got invited were his idea, not mine. Therefore, the expenses for the banquet must be covered by him, as I previously explained¡±

    ¡°Thirdly, bringing Ms. Li into the Shen family is his desire, not mine. Thus, he must provide the dowry from his funds, not the central account I manage. Lastly, I have yet to replenish the central account from my private management, so he has no taels to withdraw. Even if there were, he would no longer be entitled to use them freely¡±

    ¡°Earlier this month, when Elder Huyin sought to acquire her eleventh and twelfth mistresses here, she attempted to withdraw funds from the central account for their dowries, 2,000 taels. I refused, citing the same principle: I did not bring those women to be the Master¡¯s mistress by my duty.¡± Meng Zhiru elaborated, referencing Elder Huyin''s actions a few weeks ago.

    At that time, Shen Zhongting''s manipulative mother enlisted a matchmaker to procure two sisters as mistresses for her son. Elder Huyin then demanded that I provide the dowries. Mengh Zhilu refused, citing the same principle. Ultimately, the old woman resorted to taking the funds from her purse, fuming with anger.

    In her previous life, blinded by her position as the main wife of Shen¡¯s clan and her inherent honesty, she had sacrificed her many funds to preserve her dignity.

    But having suffered an unjust death, she refused to be exploited in this life.

    This marriage to his beloved mistress was Shen Zhongting''s idea. The lavish tea ceremony with numerous guests was also his and his mother¡¯s doing. Why should she provide another exorbitant dowry for Li Lianshuang? She was no longer the same foolish woman; she would not sacrifice her wealth to finance her husband''s new wife. Let Shen Zhongting and his greedy mother bear the cost of their desires.

    The marriage of the beloved mistress at this time was Shen Zhongting''s and his mother¡¯s idea. So, how would she spend so much money, dowry, on Li Lianshuang? She is not the stupid woman in the past anymore, why would she pay for her husband¡¯s new wife? Let Shen Zhongting take all his wishes from his greedy mother. That is¡­

    Finally, when Meng Zhilu said this. So, the butler had to retreat empty-handed.

    ¡°If Huyin says that, I will go to inform the Master.¡± He concluded by ending the tense conversation.

    Meng Zhiru nodded and said in a smooth voice, ¡°Good, tell your master all my words. As for the golden hairpin that your master ordered for Ms. Li, you can go and collect the money from your master. I just remembered that I had already given her a jade pomegranate fruit as a welcome gift, so I changed my mind. So, I didn¡¯t approve the cost of the Dongliu store. You can go back.¡±

    Meng Zhilu¡¯s words meant that she would not pay a single more copper. a few weeks ago, Li Lianshuang had just received a gift from her, and that was enough.

    In this life, her grudge turned her into a demon. Malice made her a strong person; she is not a ripe persimmon who would be crushed by wicked couples anymore. (idiom: Does not weak for anyone to advantage)

 Disgusted Mother and Son

    Fifteen minutes later, the butler returned to Shen Zhongting¡¯s private residence, located a few dozen meters from Meng Zhilu¡¯s.

    ¡°What!¡± Shen Zhongting''s face flushed with rage. ¡°Meng Zhilu expects me to pay for the dowry and the banquet?¡± He slammed his teacup to the floor with a resounding crash, causing the terrified butler to lower his head, avoiding eye contact. ¡°How dare she!¡± Shen Zhongting seethed, his anger burning like a wildfire. ¡°Who does she think she is, defying me like this?¡±

    ¡°Um...regarding tomorrow¡¯s invoice from Dongliu Shop, how should I proceed, sir?¡± the butler inquired hesitantly.

    Shen Zhongting¡¯s voice was cold as he struggled to contain his fury.

    ¡°Tomorrow morning, have someone from Dongliu Shop come to collect the payment. As for the remaining expenses, I¡¯ll discuss them with Huyin personally, now you may leave¡±

    The butler bowed hastily and acknowledged the order. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± he replied, relieved to escape the tense atmosphere.

    As the butler departed, the hall fell silent, save for the echo of Shen Zhongting¡¯s agitated pacing. He circled the room like a trapped animal, his thoughts consumed by anger. Finally, he stormed out of the study and made his way to Elder Huyin¡¯s quarters, his face a mask of displeasure.

    Upon reaching the hall, he found his mother selecting jewelry with the assistance of several servants. ¡°Mother,¡± he said through gritted teeth.

    Elder Huyin looked up at her son in surprise. ¡°Shouyi, what brings you here so early? Is something the matter? You look rather stern,¡± she said, waving her hand to dismiss the servants from the main hall.

    ¡°Mother, I have an urgent matter to discuss with you,¡± Shen Zhongting replied coldly, taking a seat beside her.

    Elder Huyin placed the hairpin on the jewelry box and turned to her son with a worried expression. ¡°Shouyi, is everything alright? Have those schoolchildren been causing trouble again? Those noble offspring are so spoiled and entitled. They think the world revolves around them¡± She shook her head, disapproving of the pampered noble children Shen Zhongting taught. Raised like high nobles, they were headstrong and prone to misbehavior.

    Shen Zhongting shook his head and sighed. ¡°No, it¡¯s not the students. I''m troubled because I sent the butler to request funds for the tea ceremony from Meng Zhilu, and she refused. The debt payment is due in a little over ten days, and my treasury is insufficient. I¡¯d like to ask for a loan from you, Mother...¡± He reached out and clasped his mother''s hand.

    As anticipated, Elder Huyin¡¯s face contorted in indignation. ¡°What!?¡±

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    ¡°That ungrateful woman!¡± she exclaimed. ¡°How dare Meng Zhilu refuse you! She¡¯s wealthy; it¡¯s a trivial expense for her. Why should she refuse to help?¡± Rising to her feet, she declared, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, son. I¡¯ll handle this myself. As the main wife, it''s Mengh Zhilu¡¯s duty, she must bear it¡±

    Shen Zhongting feigned reluctance. ¡°Wait, Mother, I''ll cover the expenses myself, but...¡±

    ¡°Enough,¡± Elder Huyin interrupted firmly. "I''ll deal with Meng Zhilu by myself. If I don''t put that woman in her place today, don''t call me ¡°Fu Rhen anymore.¡± (Lady; Titles for the principal wife of a high-ranking nobleman)

    Meanwhile, Meng Zhiru was in her study, reviewing accounts. Pi Qiao burst into the room, her hurried steps catching Meng Zhilu¡¯s attention. ¡°What''s wrong?¡± she inquired.

    ¡°Elder Huyin and the Master are approaching. They appear quite agitated. A maid witnessed their demeanor and rushed to inform the slave, So, a slave came here to report Madam¡±

    ¡°I see¡± Meng Zhiru replied calmly. She had anticipated this confrontation. The lessons from her past life had taught her how to handle such individuals. To combat a greedy person, one must be resolute. She no longer cared about maintaining the facade of a demure wife.

    Just as Meng Zhiru finished her thought, she heard footsteps approaching down the corridor. The door to her study burst open, revealing a furious Elder Huyin.

    Elder Huyin marched in, followed closely by Shen Zhongting and Yu Mama. She confronted Meng Zhilu, her voice booming with anger.

    ¡°Meng Zhilu! Explain yourself!¡± she exclaimed. ¡°Where has all the Shen family''s money gone? My son is the head of this household; why can''t he access the central account?¡±

    Meng Zhilu turned to her maid. ¡°Pi Qiao, fetch the account books and the boxes of invoices.¡±

    Pi Qiao quickly retrieved the requested items and placed them on Meng Zhilu¡¯s desk.

    Meng Zhilu opened the account books and presented them to Elder Huyin. ¡°Here are the detailed records of the Shen clan¡¯s expenses, meticulously documented since I joined this family two years ago.¡±

    Elder Huyin snatched the account book and flipped through it. Her expression quickly soured. She scanned the figures, searching for errors, but her scrutiny only intensified her unease.

    Finally, resorting to bluster, she exclaimed, ¡°Why are you spending so much? How is wasteful!¡± She raised her voice, hoping to intimidate Meng Zhilu, aware of her daughter-in-law¡¯s past timidity.

    But Meng Zhilu remained as calm and fearless as a towering mountain. She dealt with the Elder Huyin calmly, without the same fearful attitude as in her previous life.

    ¡°It seems that Mother must have misunderstood something, so it would be better for me to open the invoice and the receipt for you to see, how much the expenses of the Shen family have been in the past two years, just the cost of repairing eight houses has already paid four million and seven hundred thousand taels. That I used from my private money. As for the central account, I entrusted the butler to tell the master. It does not mean that he will not be reimbursed. However, there is no money in the account for the master to withdraw separately. If you want to check it, then please sit down,¡± she said in a calm voice and then turned to order Ruyi and Pi Qiao, ¡°Ruyi, go and bring a chair for Elder Huyin and The Master to sit on, Pi Qiao serve the tea¡±

    Meng Zhilu opened the account books and presented them to Elder Huyin. ¡°Here is a meticulous record of the Shen clan¡¯s expenses, detailing every transaction since I joined this family.¡± She refused to be intimidated by her mother-in-law¡¯s pressure tactics. Actions may be easily forgotten, but words leave a lasting impression.

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 eBook in Amazon is now available

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